Easy Entertaining

Sometime last month I found myself thinking about the last time friends came over to my apartment, and realized it had been absolute ages since I had last entertained. Although it can be quite costly (I tend to overspend), I adore having friends over, in my space, having a good time – so I decided that it was time to have a dinner party!

I usually get a bit frantic and stressed so I wanted this time to be different; I wanted to have as much prepared beforehand as possible so that I could make my guests feel relaxed and calm. I followed a few of Emily’s tips from Cupcakes and Cashmere, and I tried to not only focus on the food itself but also the overall ambiance and environment – I think it’s very important to create a mood.

I am a dreamer, and often live with my head in the clouds; if I had it my way I would have gone out to purchase new crockery, table settings and decor. Unfortunately, I got brought down to reality very quickly after realizing the prices of even the smallest things – so I tried to make do with what I had in the house.

I created the mood with lighting, plants/flowers and background music (a necessity when it comes to entertaining).

I purchased some proteas – one of my favourite flowers – from the local grocer in Dunkeld. I also wanted some greenery for the table, so I opted for these stunning hydrangeas which are subtle but equally fresh and beautiful.

Steph kindly took on the role of photographer – on my new camera – while myself and my gran (I’m not embarrassed to admit that the food was not all me) worked our magic in the kitchen.

The food was simple yet fulfilling, there was laughter all round the table and I was surrounded by good friends.

All in all, the evening was a success and it definitely lit the entertaining spark in me 😉