Now that we’re starting to gather again, it’s time to celebrate by hosting a summer supper party – and Le Creuset’s new Cayenne color is a lively addition to any get-together. It’s a seductive summer hue that brings a little spice into your kitchen and will spark a spicy conversation at the table.
But some of us might be a little rusty when it comes to hosting a dinner party again. So we’re sharing our expert tips for getting back into the swing of entertaining at home. This simple step-by-step approach is all you need to host the perfect party, and simmer through summer with ease.
Plan the Theme and Guest List
Start by planning a theme for your party. While not absolutely mandatory, it does help with setting the tone so guests know what to expect, and it also helps with figuring out the menu and décor for the get-together. Take advantage of the fact that summer is the perfect time to host an outdoor event, and being outside will likely set your guests at ease as well.
Now, as to how many to invite? A range between four to eight is a good number, not too few and not too many. Start with close friends and then expand the guest list from there to include a spirited group sure to keep the conversation going all evening.
What to Eat and Drink
If you’ve selected a theme for your supper party, then you are well on your way to creating the menu. Specific cuisines work well because you can be inspired by that particular genre for the entire menu. Or choose a particular meal to rally around, such as brunch or a picnic to inspire the menu. Aim to make one signature or show stopping recipe and then keep the rest of the menu super simple.
For beverages it’s always nice to have a signature cocktail or glass of wine ready, along with a few nibbles, to set guests at ease when they arrive. Set up a bar area where everyone can serve themselves so you’re not playing bartender all evening. And don’t forget to have plenty of non-alchoholic options on hand as well.
Set the Scene
When setting the table, décor and playlist for your party, the theme can provide inspiration here as well. But sometimes simple is best – some flowers or fruit in a bowl make a lovely centerpiece, along with some candles or fairy lights in a glass jar. Set the table with our beautiful Dinnerware or Everyday Enamelware, along with utensils and cloth napkins.
Keep the colors of your scene neutral or tonal, like our Hot Summer Hues, for a sophisticated palette that is always in style any season. Or if you don’t have enough of one kind of tableware or utensils, a mix of different colors, styles and patterns is a fun and funky way to bring some energy to a summer party.
Serve in Style
For outdoor entertaining, plating food on individual plates can be time-consuming and nerve-wracking, so keep it casual by serving family-style. A pro tip we learned from our friends at Food & Wine is that if you’re serving more than four people, divide the dish into two smaller vessels or platters so that each end of the table has their own dish to enjoy.
Also use Mini Round Cocottes, Canisters and other small dishes for garnishes and sides to round out your tablescape – the lidded ones are best for keeping out bugs. Another idea is to use dishes that do double duty, like our Rectangular Dish with Platter Lid. And if you’re wondering how to keep beverages cold, a large Dutch oven or Stockpot makes a great ice bucket.
Keep Your Cool
Entertaining can be stressful for the most seasoned party planner, especially when we’ve all been out of practice. So lighten the load by asking friends to bring something, whether it is a side dish, dessert or wine. Also try to prep as much as you can in advance – aim for recipes that can be completely made ahead and served cold or at room temperature. And when you’re getting ready to serve, ask friends to help with the final touches.
But the most important thing to remember when hosting a supper party is that your friends and family are there for you, no matter what is served. So relax, have fun and enjoy these precious shared summer moments.
