A Guide to a Fresh Labor Day Affair

Labor Day is just around the corner, and, whether we believe it or not, so is the end of the summer. Things have changed quite a bit these past couple of months, and so should some of your entertaining traditions. Here, a guide to hosting an intentional and stress-free summer soirée.

1.  

2. Stay in Season

   There’s nothing quite like the feeling of nurturing your body with fresh produce. This pandemic has certainly given us a deeper perspective on the importance of health and taking care of our bodies. Let’s continue this trend even when planning gatherings at home. Prepare a fresh salad, and play around with combinations of seasonal fruits and vegetables as your toppings—we are currently into watermelon, peaches, figs, tangerines... (really anything with vibrant red and orange hues). Needless to say, it’s always best to pick your favorites from your garden if you have the luxury to do so!

   
   

   When in Doubt, Add Flowers

   Nature should always be your go-to when it comes to decorating your table. Make bright-colored flowers your summer staple. Whenever you feel a little unsure about your tablescape, and trust us, it can happen to anyone, add a couple of beautiful flower arrangements along the table. And no worries if you feel you are short on beautiful tableware and accents for this occasion (that’s what we are here for!)—flowers will always do the job of bringing joy to your table.

Make it Intimate

When it comes to your guest list, make it short and sweet. Let’s embrace the idea that less is more, especially during these delicate times. Be conscious and minimize your (and everyone else’s) risk and exposure by inviting an intimate group of friends. Plus, there is more room for creativity and personalization when hosting smaller groups. Take advantage of this and spend more time on details your guests will appreciate. Who doesn’t love a fresh homemade watermelon granita or a light and delicious fig & ricotta cake? Don't forget the side of crème fraîche, of course!

Explore the Natural Wine World

Take Labor Day as an excuse to try these trendy wines! For those of you who don’t know, “natural” wine is produced without pesticides, chemicals and other additives. Buy a bottle or two, and serve it extra-chilled to refresh your guests as they arrive. Pair it with a homemade cheese board for the perfect antipasto.

1. "Nature should always be your go-to when it comes to decorating your table. Whenever you feel a little unsure about your tablescape, and trust us, it can happen to anyone, add a couple of beautiful flower arrangements along the table."

1. Last but certainly not least-

2.  

3. Catering Is Not a Sin

   Love to host but can’t cook? Keep it simple and risk-free. You don’t have to be a Michelin-starred chef to be a fabulous host. Hosting is about enjoying time with your loved ones, and having fun while you are planning and preparing. What’s the point of it if you are going to spend miserable hours in the kitchen burning through multiple loaves of bread! Speaking of bread, don’t compare yourself with that friend that makes her own loaf of crunchy, fluffy bread in addition to the entire dinner menu. Support your favorite local spot by ordering simple and delightful food that you’ll be sure everyone will love.

    

Editor's Picks