How better to inspire shoppers to pick up tableware and decor than with beautiful inspiration from Chef Kristal Damron's entertaining book Entertaining and Celebrating: An Elegant Feast For Every Occasion.
A visual extravaganza, this coffee table treasure takes you through a year featuring monthly themes highlighting each season’s bounty. The themes are designed to spark your own creativity, with stylish table settings, four-course menus with cocktail and wine pairings, and suggested ways to serve that will wow your guests. Cultivating a warm and casual mood while dishing up flawless execution and service is what Entertaining and Celebrating is all about.
“In the fast-paced complexity of the modern world, many of us have lost the art of slowing down to appreciate the simple pleasures in life,” Chef Damron says. “Preparing to entertain is an example: setting the table, creating an ambience, planning the menu and wine, paying attention to the details and beauty of things.”
I had a chance to interview her to learn more.
Why did you decide to write this book?
I wrote this book to inspire others to entertain and recapture elegance with their dining experiences. As I was considering what to include, I kept getting feedback about how hard it is to simply get started with planning an event or gathering. The internet is wonderful, but the number of options can be overwhelming and intimidating, leading people to forego fine dining and entertaining altogether. So I focused on giving readers an accessible starting point to either follow as written, or to tailor to their specific tastes, traditions, or styles. And, of course, I love to entertain with exquisite food and excellent service. With this book, I am able to share with others my passion and love for creating lasting memories.
Why is it important for people to learn the art of elegant entertaining?
I think it is important to learn the art of elegant entertaining because it allows you to create connections and memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. Today’s world is full of activities and distractions. We are tethered to our technological devices yet, in some ways, more disconnected than ever. Hosting an elegant affair invites your guests to fully engage and appreciate the present. Your careful selections of décor, food, and service signal that this moment – and the people in it – are worth treasuring.
What are your favorite ways to keep conversation flowing at a dinner party?
My favorite way to encourage lively conversation is to offer interactive activities, such as games and skits, wine and beer tastings, or even comedy. I’ve also found that unique or beautiful food and décor items, whether on the table or around the room, will catch people’s eyes and spark comments and conversation throughout the evening. Finally, when I introduce people, I share an interesting tidbit about each person to provide a starting point for further exploration.
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