Kitchen Essential

A buffet meal is ideal for occasions where there is to be a large number of guests such as christenings, weddings and similar gatherings. It may also suit a smaller gathering such as an informal supper with friends after the theatre or an evening at home where a dinner around the table might be more formal than you want to make it.

When planning the table arrangements and flowers or other decorations, think carefully about a colour scheme or theme to suit the occasion. For example, if the meal you are planning is to celebrate a silver wedding, choose white flowers with silvery foliage, silver candles or white candles in silver candlesticks and trimmings of furled silver ribbons. Silver serving dishes and silver cutlery will help to set the scene and if you don’t have these yourself, you can hire, or possibly borrow them. If the occasion is a christening, you will probably choose pink or blue as the predominant colour, and flowers should be delicate and unfussy.

The next most important decision is where to place the table. Continue Reading »

To become the ideal host, it’s important to rememberthat success lies in the details: the niceties of setting a lovely table, extra attention to comfort, and adding those thoughtful little touches that surprise and delight your guests. Whether the occasion is a barbecue, tea or a children’s party, the table setting will set the mood. Choose white linen for a formal dinner; cutlery wraps and a quilted liner for a picnic hamper. Plan your centre-pieces and candleholders, and choose napkins that suit the occasion. Continue Reading »