July 11, 2014
My husband and I love to entertain. In the summer weather, we love to have guests join us outdoors in our courtyard garden. In the wintertime, our living and dining rooms serve as key entertaining spaces. Wherever we are in our home, I find that I use several items over and over again when we entertain. I thought I'd share these key pieces, with some tips to successful entertaining that we've learned over the years, and some images from a recent evening spent with friends in the garden.
My must haves for any gathering: timeless serveware, quality glasses and fresh flowers.
Must Haves:
- Timeless Serveware. In addition to interior design, I am also very interested in food styling. White plates in an assortment of shapes are the perfect backdrop to showcase food in beautiful arrays.
- Quality Stemware. Champagne flutes and wine glasses are always in demand at our dinner parties. Investing in classic, quality stemware will last you for many years of elegant entertaining
- Fresh Flowers. Freshly cut flowers are essential. They add a splash of airiness, and make the surroundings feel more formal. I love to play with different colours when I entertain, and flowers are another way to introduce my chosen colour theme.
Classic serveware can be transformed in a multitude of ways. (Casey Design/Planning Group Inc. for Canada Blooms)
Timeless shapes in glass and serveware can last a lifetime. (Casey Design/Planning Group Inc. for Canada Blooms)
Keeping it low maintenance, preparing things in advance, and going with the flow are some keys to a successful evening with friends and family.
Tips and Tricks:
- Keep it low maintenance. Often, after a busy and hectic day at work, we have guests over in the evening. It's essential that our gatherings be as low maintenance as possible. Preparing appetizers that are easy to make, such as dips (hummus, guacamole and salsas) or even doing take-out at our favourite sushi place, helps us to balance our busy schedules with our desire to entertain.
- Prepare in advance. We always like to set out the glasses and plates the night before or the morning of, put wines and waters in the fridge, and tidy up well in advance. These little preparations ahead of time will save you plenty of stress and panic!
- Go with the flow. Whether it's the weather, the food, or something else it's always essential to go with the flow. The most important thing is spending time with our guests, and creating memories with them.
Cheers, to your next successful gathering!