Want to host a multisensory soirée? Here, three designers share their top summer entertaining tips, from what they’re serving to what they’re serving it on.
Caren Rideau
For Caren Rideau, founder and principal of Kitchen Design Group, planning ahead pays off. “Keep the menu simple and make sure everything is prepped before your guests arrive,” she states. “This way, you can focus on enjoying the party instead of scrambling in the kitchen.” On the menu: Fruit cobbler and grilled vegetables, both of which are “incredibly easy and guaranteed to impress.”
“I like what I call ‘fillers,’” Rideau adds. “A small platter of grilled shishito peppers and veggies with color always brings contrast to a table and are delicious.” For the perfect finishing touch, sprinkle in pomegranate seeds, fresh herbs or grilled lemon for extra flavor and texture.
“Good glasses for drinking wine make a difference,” Rideau states. Her selection: RIEDEL Veritas New World Pinot Noir, Nebbiolo & Rosé Champagne Glass.
Once the menu’s determined, the designer likes to set the mood with a chill playlist of Marvin Gaye, Amy Winehouse and Alejandro Fernández. “Great music instantly lifts the vibe and makes any summer party more fun.”
Nathan Turner
“Summer entertaining should be easy,” notes Nathan Turner, a designer in California. While he likes to simplify his setup by cooking what he knows and sticking with a serve-yourself buffet, Turner encourages you to buy an abundance of provisions. “I’d rather have too much food and drink than not enough,” he states. “It feels hospitable and keeps people there longer.”
(Left) Hudson Grace Nonna Ceramic Serving Platter. (Right) Heath Ceramics Redwood 4-Piece Dinnerware Set. “The Californian in me loves this classic Heath dinnerware,” Turner explains. “I like to mix and match the colors.”
Equally hospitable, he adds, is a thoughtful theme present in your menu, invitations and yes, the tablescape. “Have fun with your tables,” Turner shares. “It could be as simple as a color or a country, but it gives you direction and something to pull from.”
Tiffany Skilling
According to Tiffany Skilling, the best summer gatherings are often spontaneous. “Everything tends to be a bit more impromptu in our neighborhood,” describes the Indianapolis designer. “Friends might stop by in the late afternoon for drinks and appetizers, or we will have extended family over for dinner.” Seasonal cocktail napkins from Caspari and a crystal dish filled with nuts are easy ways to instantly elevate your spread.
As for food? Skilling swears by her caprese salad, which she makes with basil from her garden, beefsteak tomatoes and fresh mozzarella from her local farmer’s market. “I top it with VSOP Balsamic Glaze, Graza olive oil, and Maldon Sea Salt Flakes,” she shares.
Feature image by Meghan Bob Photography.
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