Cooking scares me. Especially cooking for others: trying to plan out the meal and when things need to go in the oven, attempting to juggle the kitchen while greeting guests and getting them a beverage, AND keeping the food warm once it’s done…it’s all just terrifying for me. As a perfectionist I’d rather not do it at all than do it poorly, but I’ve decided I need to get over that. I admire hospitable people greatly, and I enjoy putting time and thought into our home. I long to be hospitable and have the chance to share what I’m passionate about with others.
We’re still in the cabin, and likely will be for some time, but I’ve decided that I will host and entertain in the next house better than our last. And just like getting some new running shoes helps me get excited about working out, investing in some entertaining pieces has me looking forward to a dinner party.
When I say “invest” you can take that rather lightly. While I’m constantly frequenting thrift and antique stores, I tend to always look past serving pieces and silverware. But I’ve started browsing through those sections, and it’s fun to have something new to hunt for.
I found a set of 80 greek key dishes for under $40. They were all in great condition and I knew they could be a foundational set to mix in with other pieces, depending upon the season or occasion.
I stumbled across 3 wooden boxes filled with this brass and bone Thai silverware the other week. I spent some time in Thailand while I was in college, so they have some personal meaning to me and at $20 for all 3 boxes, I couldn’t pass them up.
I like the mix of the more modern utensil ends with the more intricate work of the buddha. Along with about 10 sets of utensils and the usual serving pieces, there are quite a few interesting pieces that I’ve never seen before.
I think collecting serving ware like this will help me get excited about entertaining, and it’s also opened up a whole new world of thrifting.
Do you like to entertain? Any words of wisdom or tips for those of us who are a little overwhelmed by the idea?
Wow $20 for three boxes of gorgeous flatware!?! That is a steal!
Thanks, Julia! Yes, it was way too hard to pass up.
love it all! i love vintage eclectic pieces- your table is gorgeous!
You had some great finds! I love the idea of mixing pieces. I try to get as much done beforehand as I can, but it always seems like things are still crazy when people arrive. I'm sure you're a wonderful host, and you'll have a great time! Can't wait to see pictures:)
Tip #1 – cook your entree in the oven. Poultry and large pieces of meat all have to prepped well in advance and take several hours to cook. This is perfect. They look amazing when you pull them out and you don't have to worry about them until they are ready. Quiche with a parmesan rice crust is one of my favorites for vegetarians. This is truly the secret to being the hostess who has time to spend with her guests when they arrive.
Tip #2 – choose 2 or 3 ambitious dishes that don't overlap in prep or cook time. Think amazing cake for dessert that can be baked in the morning, interesting appetizer that can be prepped in the afternoon, and entree that's prepared a few hours before supper time. Don't choose things that have to be prepped at the same time.
Tip #3 – go simple with the vegetables. A well cooked legume tastes better than any spice you can throw on them. You don't need to wow with every dish. They'll also compliment that amazing appetizer you made and well spiced entree.
Tip #4 – no matter what you do there will be a crunch time right before supper. Help yourself out with the prep work, like cutting up your salad ingredients in the morning and then mixing them before supper. But ultimately, find a partner to host with you who can greet guests, mix drinks, and graciously usher people into your home. If all goes as planned you'll be right there alongside him but never hurts to have a just in case plan.
These are such great tips! Thanks for taking the time to share this, I really appreciate it, and thanks so much for reading!
i think setting the table is my favorite part too…and presentation is everything!
I definitely agree! And I don't think the food has to be hard to be good, I'm just not great at the juggling of it all!
I always get overwhelmed by the thought of having company too! I love all the pretty things you've found. The greek key dishes will be prefect for layering and mixing!
Thanks, Bethany! Glad I'm not alone. 🙂
I relate completely. Want to create opportunities to share my home with others – but get so overwhelmed in doing so. Those greek key dishes are perfection. Love the tips from "Mighty" above!
Yes!
My favorite interactive, fun (and easy!) dinner party is when we serve beef fondue. The best part, prep is easy and everyone cooks their own food! Throw a few sides and dessert with it and voila!
I guess I need a fondue pot then, huh? You'll have to show me yours the next time I come see you!
Those dishes are AMAZING! And I totally agree, finding new, beautiful finds you are proud of (like the running shoes) will make you excited to entertain. 🙂 I'm sure your dinner parties would be AMAZING.