Hosting a soiree for our nearest and dearest has to be one of our favourite weekend to-do’s. There’s nothing better than getting the girl gang together at sunset to bond over a spread of moorish food, bubbly drinks and the moodiest playlist.
When it comes to putting on a spread, Kat Vel (@katvel__) is a seasoned professional. We got chatting with the Melbourne-based food expert and co-owner of Golden Groves Organic Olive Oil on all things dinner parties and how to be the best host. She’s rounded up 7 of her top tips for your next soiree.
Tip 1.
A dinner party should always be a feast for the senses, not just our mouths.
Thoughtful music and moody lights are key when setting the scene for any dinner party. A Disco playlist is always a compelling choice. Scent is hugely important too - whether it’s letting the aroma of the food fill the air or lighting your favourite candle!
Tip 2.
Invite your guests to bring a magnum of wine or type of cheese.
It makes for great conversation and sharing! When I host, we love to compare notes on the bottles or products we managed to find. It's fun and un-intimidating for everyone invited and lets the food be the focus.
Tip 3.
Food should always be made to share!
There’s nothing more beautiful than platters of food filled to the absolute brim, passed around from guest to guest, oil stained tablecloths and all. Dinner Parties are best when people can just pick away to their hearts’ content.
Tip 4.
Funky, colourful candles and mismatched candle holders are a must.
It's the easiest way to inject some colour onto any tablescape and the warm lighting makes the ambience feel cosy and intimate, no matter the occasion. If you don't have any candleholders, I love using old wine or olive oil bottles and creating a unique display.
Tip 5.
Cooking is more fun when it’s a team effort.
They say too many cooks in the kitchen spoils the broth BUT I disagree. I grab my friends and make them taste a bit of this and that, and love getting their input as to what else we should add. It's a team effort and cooking is always best when it's intuitive rather than regimented.
Tip 6.
Less is more when it comes to dessert.
Savouring one really well considered and tasteful dessert is better than bombarding guests with so many options that they don't get to appreciate the beauty of every bite. A must try is a really simple olive oil chocolate mousse with flakey sea salt and orange zest - divine no matter the season!
Tip 7.
Get creative with centrepiece ideas!
When you're feeling stretched, use whatever is in your fridge or pantry to reimagine a traditional tablescape. I love using fresh vegetables or loaves of bread to decorate the length of the table - and sticking candles in them too! It fills up the space whilst also acting as a very effortless centrepiece.
