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I always enjoy entertaining and having people over. It’s one of the things that make me the happiest. Setting up and creating a special atmosphere to share with friends is just sheer bliss for me. So last Sunday, for the Academy Awards show, I opted to celebrate it along with a friend in a much different way than I generally would. As the sun is setting later now, it got me in the mood to start out the celebration early with a champagne afternoon tea, served with a variety of delicious treats. Needless to say, it was a wonderful way to spend that Sunday afternoon that stretched well into the late night.
I’d like to share 3 simple tips to help allay the intimidation of hosting a party effortlessly.
* Preparation is Key. Whether entertaining family or friends, being a good host requires a bit of planning. Prepare as much as you possibly can the day before so that on the day of your party, all that’s left to do is getting yourself dressed and putting on the playlist for your occasion. Buy fresh flowers and arrange them in their prospective vases/cups, place them in their designated areas, including the bathroom. Think inexpensive bunches, like carnations or in season flowers that can be divided between at least several small vases and still make a big impact.
* Decide Your Table Theme and Food. I went with a white palette using a white tablecloth as my base (but if you don’t have a tablecloth, a nice pretty throw or an oversized scarf can be used as well) with accents of “vintage red roses” aka, roses that started dying prettily – I added some baby breath to the arrangements for their delicate touch. Then decide on the types and amount of tea sandwiches, mini deserts and tea. The options are endless, but here’s what I chose for my menu this time around:
~ Tea Sandwiches
(ideally should be two bites)~
Turkey Celery and Almond Sandwiches {recipe to follow}
Scones with Raspberry Jam and Cream
Mixed Berry Fruits and Cream
Chocolate Covered Miniature Sponge Cake with Vanilla Cream
Chocolate Tartlets {recipe to follow}
~ Teas ~
{when it comes to tea, I love heavy flavor and dark color brewed tea that stand up well to milk and sugar or creamer. Plus, I enjoy blending different flavors together, so I combined these two favorites.}
* Set The Atmosphere. Besides setting a beautiful table with its delicious delectables, you want to set the mood with the right music on low volume so guests can hear you and each other comfortably. I generally, start the playlist for the occasion five minutes or so before my guests start to arrive. I love using spotify these days in lieu of my iPod. As with my iPod, I’ve created a great variety of playlists for any occasion or sometimes I’ll put on my good’ol Crosley record player depending on the evening. If you go that route, make sure to select the records you’d like to play beforehand, to avoid fumbling for them as your guests are coming in or already in your home. Light candles before you put on the music. Since this was the Academy Awards show, I had the pre-red/red carpet going all day. But as I always say, when it’s all said and done – the key to being a gracious host, is ensuring that your guests feel comfortable and welcome. The important thing is to enjoy your time with your guests and have fun!
