Setting a Table That Talks
From someone who hosts better than she cooks
Growing up, I was practically my mother’s assistant when it came to dinner parties or parties of any kind–my parents hosted like there was no tomorrow. Weddings, charity events, random weekends- no matter the occasion, they celebrated life with their friends, good food, and great music always. My mother inspires me in different ways every day, and when it comes to a good party, I find myself channeling her instinct.
Hosting runs through my veins; it’s something I can’t help but do. I enjoy making my friends and family feel welcome and cozy in our home. They say the quickest way to someone’s heart is through their stomach. While I’m not necessarily known for my cooking, I do have a few recipes up my sleeve and know exactly how to present them.
Last weekend, my husband and I hosted four dear friends for a Sopranos-inspired dinner. We had five courses and a nice red Italian wine to pair with them. This night was the perfect excuse to fill the table with our wedding china, linens, wine glasses, and flatware, so I took the opportunity and ran with it. Piece by piece, I built the whole scene, until the table looked like a gorgeous facade waiting for the food to catch up.
The night kicked off with some soft bread sliced and dipped in olive oil and a flavorful red apple balsamic that my mother-in-law brought home from Saratoga, all served on two yellow platters plucked from our china cabinet. The first course was a big hit as the wine flowed. Next we jumped into a crisp caesar salad, prepared by our friend and served in a matching salad bowl.
Using fancy china gives me the same sparkling feeling I get when I wear designer heels–I walk with a little more pep in my step.
Served in a gorgeous tureen, my brother’s signature meatball recipe made its entrance as our third course. Time passed too quickly as we sipped wine and passed everyone’s contributions around the table. The linens had already taken on a life of their own with a splash of red wine here and a drop of olive oil there. New flavors and techniques rush your taste buds and stimulate conversation. I love a great dinner party, and this was exactly that. Onto the main course, my friend made the most amazing lasagna that tied our big fat Italian dinner with a bow.
We each contributed to the group’s favorite course, dessert. My friend’s mom made a delicious cake, my other friend made a wonderful tiramisu, and I brought my husband’s great-grandmother’s layered Italian dessert to the mix. We scooped, sliced, and had ourselves a final course that would make your buttons pop.
Focusing on every tiny detail to make the night feel special is one of my favorite things. I love the atmosphere I can create. Before we ever sat down, the table had already said everything I couldn’t. As the night rolled to an end, that same table sat disheveled. It was living proof of a great night. We were schlepping food off plates, playing Tetris with the dishwasher, and my heart was full.
Find your Bachét.