I love entertaining! A gathering of friends and family just warms my heart. Sometimes it can be overwhelming, but one thing I’ve learned is that setting the right atmosphere and selecting recipes that can be prepared in advance is essential so that I can also sit back and enjoy myself.

Here are some of my “go to” party tips for hosting a successful gathering.

Set the Table: Nothing sets the atmosphere and makes the guests feel welcome than a pre-set table complete with placemats, cloth napkins, wine glasses, lights and fresh flowers. It doesn’t need to be fancy, just welcoming. We love oil lamps and have a whole collection we have gathered over the years from antique shops. Bring out your favorite ceramic pottery and don’t skimp on using real cloth napkins. What are you saving them for? Also, cloth napkins are more environmentally friendly. If you plan to start with a white wine or cocktail, put a second glass on the table for the red.

I like any excuse to pull out my collection of little spoons!

 

Put on Music: I like to put on music before the guests arrive. It puts me in the entertaining mood and just in case someone arrives early, they are immediately put into “party” mode! I’ve gone from cassette tapes, CD’s and now I’m totally hooked on Spotify Playlists.  Some of my favorite Spanish bands to follow are Ella Baila Sola, La Oreja de Van Gogh, Amaia Montero and Paco de Lucia.

A Night Out: Put on your party dress, wear your favorite dangle earrings and a large necklace! I want to feel like I’m also attending a party even if it’s at my own house! Spray on some light cologne (I like natural essences of citrus and lavender like Loewe Quizas for women and L’Eau Kenzo).  If you’re behind on cooking, just put on a clean, stylish apron while guests arrive and mingle. Dress the part! And if it’s been a stressful day, putting on the “look” will transform you.  Remember, if you look like you’re at a party, it will set the tone for the entire evening!

No Empty Glass: As soon as the first guests arrive, open a chilled bottle of Bokisch bubbly, Family Estate Rosado or Garnacha Blanca. Whatever you decide, just make sure to get a glass in their hands without delay! No need to wait for everyone to arrive. Those who arrive first will get some alone time with you to catch up or help lay out the finishing touches on the appetizers. Those who come next, will feel the excitement of coming  directly into a party atmosphere.

Tapas on the Table: Make sure to have some interesting nibbles on the table to greet your guests. I always keep my pantry stocked with Marcona Almonds, Spanish olives and gourmet crackers to pull out on a last minute notice. Set everything out on your favorite ceramic dishes, grab a fresh sprig of herbs from the garden to garnish the cheese and you are set. I love to put out cute cocktail napkins too! Some of my other  favorite tapas to make in advance are Pepperazzi Peppers with Goat Cheese , Manchego Roll Ups and Endives with Smoked Salmon and Allioli. All can be done in advance and look beautiful.

I like to pick fresh chives in bloom to add to a simple white plate (above) or fresh rosemary blossoms for the Manchego Roll-Ups! (below)

Most importantly, have fun and enjoy yourself!

Salut! Liz