Though I’ve long been out of the event planning biz, I still love to host a party. But instead of the champagne towers and elaborate dessert bars of my past life, today my ideal type of gathering is a casual, kick-your-shoes-off affair, preferably outside in the sunshine. After all: everything tastes better al fresco!

Linen Table Throw

$80 at Casa Zuma

That said, anyone who’s ever invited people for a casual backyard dinner knows: an outdoor party comes with its own set of challenges. Blazing sun, pesky mosquitos, maintaining food temperatures (and keeping the flies away) are details that can make or break the festivities. My background in catering, combined with the countless parties I’ve thrown through the years, has taught me some invaluable lessons that I employ to make my own gatherings feel (almost) effortless.

So today, we’re rounding up the most frequently asked questions I get about how to host a summer party. My hope is that you’ll be inspired to find the next open evening on your calendar (yep, weeknights work, too!) shoot a few texts to some friends, and grab some snacks to whip up a simple, delicious spread.

Read on for a handful of my tried-and-true secrets, and be sure to download our ultimate summer entertaining guide for all the menus, inspiration, and planning advice you need to host in style all season long.

Harvester Board

$84 at Casa Zuma

Hand-Thrown Antipasto Bowls, Set of 3

$56 at Casa Zuma

All your summer entertaining questions, answered

Q: What’s the best way to invite people to a casual summer party?

A: Three words: keep it chill. An invitation sets the tone, so for a simple outdoor party, don’t overthink it! In my opinion, a group text or email is the way to go. And I’ve found that when I make things really easy on myself, I’m naturally inclined to invite friends over more frequently. In addition to arrival time, I like to let people know the approximate time we’ll be eating so we’re not firing up the grill multiple times over the course of an evening (i.e., “come at 4 to swim, burgers at 6!”)

It’s also helpful to provide a loose dress code so people know what to expect. Swimsuits? Shorts? Summer dresses? Since summer parties can have drastically different dress expectations, everyone will appreciate a few clues as to what they should wear.

Playa Dinner Plate, Set of 4

$192 at Casa Zuma

Playa Salad Plate, Set of 4

$168 at Casa Zuma

Q: What are some simple menu ideas? I feel like I’m always stuck in the kitchen while everyone else is outside having fun.

A: I have a few strategies to keep the menu simple—the one I choose will depend on the type of party and who’s coming. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Snacks for dinner. Summer is the perfect time to curate a delicious spread of store-bought staples with a few artisanal treats. Assemble a snacking board full of delicious cheeses, olives, crudités, dips, dried fruit, nuts—really your options are endless. Green goddess dressing is downright addictive, and the perfect accompaniment for any type of seasonal veggies.

El Matador Vase

$98 at Casa Zuma

Espresso Cups, Set of 4, with Wooden Tray

$249 at Casa Zuma

Semi-homemade feast. The goal is to be able to relax and hang out with your guests, so no matter how experienced a party thrower you are, it’s great to have a few hacks up your sleeve. To save tons of time, try a “semi-homemade” approach. Buy the main course from a fave spot (like a roast chicken from the deli, or bagels from your favorite bakery) and fill in with homemade sides and salads that can be made in advance and will make it feel like you cooked it all.

Throw it on the grill. Rule #1 when planning a menu: you don’t want to include anything that will have you cranking out food like a short-order cook when guests are there. Which is where the grill really comes in handy. I like to have my proteins already marinated or seasoned before guests show up so that all that’s left to do is throw them on the grill. Often, I’ll also grill the veggie sides to keep things really easy on myself—and keep clean-up to a minimum!

Need menu ideas? Get three simple menus—plus all the recipes—in the summer entertaining guide.

Mango Wood Serving Platter

$110 at Casa Zuma

Sabre Ivory Flatware

$68 at Casa Zuma

Q: How can you speed up grilling clean-up?

A: Grilling is one of the most low-maintenance ways to cook for a group—with a little know-how. Here are my tips for grilling clean-up that save tons of time:

• Oil the Grill Grates: Before grilling, oil the grates to prevent food from sticking. Use a brush or paper towel dipped in oil.
• Pre-Clean the Grill: While the grill is heating up, use a grill brush to scrape off any residue from previous cooking sessions.
• Marinate in Bags: Marinate meat and vegetables in resealable plastic bags. This reduces the number of dishes you need to clean. Then I use tongs to transfer them straight from bag to grill, so the only dish that’s actually getting used is what you’re serving it on.
• Clean While Warm: After cooking, while the grill is still warm (but not hot), use a brush to remove any remaining food particles.

Recycled Glass Petite Goblets, Set of 4

$78 at Casa Zuma

Recycled Stemless Wine Glass, Set of 4

$64 at Casa Zuma

Q: What should I serve to drink that won’t leave me refilling glasses all night?

A: I sound like a broken record, but the key is to keep it as simple as possible—less time spent bartending means more time sipping cocktails yourself! For just about any summer occasion, you can get away with 3 drinks and call it a day:

A fun batched cocktail. Sangria, margaritas, punch—pre-mix a big pitcher, then let guests help themselves. A few favorite pitcher drinks? This Mezcal Paloma and this Strawberry Rosé Sangria are about as summery as they come. Aperol Spritz is a summer cocktail beloved by all, perfect for an Italian menu. Or, try a Blood Orange Margarita for a delicious twist on a classic.

Sharing Platter

$74 at Casa Zuma

Sabre Serving Utensils

$139 at Casa Zuma

A rosé or a white wine. This is a perfect item to have guests contribute when they ask what they can bring to the party.

Flavor-infused water. Fill a large carafe with water and add fruit or herbs for a festive touch. Bonus points for providing a fun non-alcoholic option like sparkling lemonade or iced tea.

A good rule of thumb is to plan for 1 1/2 drinks per person per hour. And at an outdoor summer party, always have more water and ice than you think you’ll need.

Sophie Skirt

$220 at Sezane

Claire Blouse

$145 at Sezane

Q: What if it’s super hot on the day of my party?

A: Again, have way more water at the ready than you think you’ll need! And—sunscreen is a non-negotiable. Do your guests a favor and have some sunscreen available for them to reapply as needed (browse our favorite clean options.) I love the look of outdoor umbrellas, and I typically scatter 2 or 3 around a party space for lifesaving shade.

Sharing Bowl

$76 at Casa Zuma

Q: What are some good outdoor activities to keep the vibes high?

A: Go all in on the carefree vibes of summer and plan some classic party games and activities to make your gathering unforgettable. A few of my faves:

• Yard games like bocce ball, croquet, and cornhole are great for encouraging people to let loose and have a good time together.
• Music is crucial to the vibe, so don’t leave this to chance. My current favorite for hanging out and eating dinner is the Daybreak playlist from Casa Zuma. And you can always turn up the beat as the night goes on and see if an impromptu dance party breaks out.

Q: How can I cut the small talk and have engaging conversations?

A: You’re speaking my love language—good conversation is the key to any gathering! We put together a list of 30 conversation starters to inspire thoughtful and engaging chats. Keep a few of these in your back pocket and you’ll step into every interaction with confidence (and curiosity!) And I guarantee, the party will never get boring.

Answers to more FAQs in the guide:

• What about paper plates and plastic glasses—are they tacky?
• What’s an easy dessert option?
• How can I keep bugs at bay?
• How can I keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold?
• Plus, more high-vibe activities to keep the party going and—
• Three menus (and full-page recipes) so you’ll always know what to serve.

The post All Your Summer Entertaining Questions, Answered appeared first on Camille Styles.

When we showed up at the Carroll’s Joshua Tree home for a mid-week dinner party, Alison was in the midst of butterflying a chicken. Though her vibe said “laid-back host,” the menu itself revealed a deep knowledge of cooking—she moved about the kitchen with the intuitive approach that only happens when you know what you’re doing. (Picasso’s “Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist” sprung to mind.) The Carroll’s close friends Ryan and Calley Belli had driven in from Los Angeles for a visit, and we spent a peaceful afternoon pitching in around the kitchen island, playing with 6-month-old Bo, and finally, gathering around the table just as the desert sun set over the mountains. 

We all left feeling nourished, body and soul, inspired by Alison’s thoughtful approach to hosting and gathering. Read on for our interview and of course, all the recipes for the insanely delicious feast she prepared.

At home in Joshua Tree

A typical day in the life…

What informs your approach to food?

A small stack of go-to cookbooks. Weekly trips to the local farmers market. A lot of intuition and winging it! Cooking is one of the few areas I don’t overthink. I start yanking stuff out of the fridge without much of a game plan, and meals just sort of come together. I sometimes go deep in learning a new technique like gluten-free baking, cooking over a fire, or using a Japanese donabe.

When I think of our culinary life in Joshua Tree, it involves a cornucopia of incredible citrus, dates, pomegranates, and Persian cucumbers—all from the local farmers’ market during California’s winter months. During our summers in Maine, we live on a working waterfront, so it’s a lot of lobsters and fresh catch from our fisherman neighbors , oysters from good friends who harvest them, wild blueberries and peak season tomatoes. We just built a new wood-fired oven in the backyard, so this coming summer will be the season of wood-fired oven experiments. 

We’re major Wonder Valley fans. How did the brand come to be?

Jay and I started Wonder Valley in 2014 out of a spare bedroom. I had previously worked as the marketing director for the California Olive Oil Council, an incredible role that involved overseeing our professional olive oil taste panel for the annual certification of all 400+ California extra-virgin olive oils. The role exposed me to the absolute best authorities and resources on domestic olive oil, and we still work with mentors I had from that time.  

We saw an opportunity to bring olive oil to a new audience and start a conversation about “extra virgin,” celebrating the quality of oil we produce here in California. We launched the brand and sold out of our first harvest within a month. We have a really unique approach to olive oil in that we pick our fruit rather green which gives us this really wonderful, robust oil that is just brimming with antioxidants and omega-rich fatty acids. A few years after launching the brand we started to use our olive oil in homemade face oils. It was absolutely transformative to the quality, radiance, and health of our skin, particularly living in this high and dry desert. That lit the match for our growing skincare line, all formulated with our olive oil as a hero ingredient.  We feel lucky to be in this unique position to talk about the importance of internal health for external beauty, and to offer products that support a more holistic approach to wellness. 

Tell us about your Joshua Tree home. How did you find it and what’s your favorite part of the space?

Jay and I bought this home in 2015 after about a year of looking. This neighborhood is where we wanted to land due to its proximity to the national park and 360 degree views of boulders and mountains. While driving around we noticed this small homestead with crumbling pink stucco and some boarded up windows. We heard it hadn’t been occupied for some time, so we tracked down the owner’s address and wrote a letter asking if they would be interested in selling, knowing it was likely a long shot. A few months later we closed on the house! 

At the time, we were living in LA and thought this would be our weekend home, but quickly became enamored by the expansive views of our new home and the process of fixing it up. With an optimistic DIY attitude that overshadowed our steep learning curve, we renovated it over the next couple years while living on site in our 1950’s blue Vagabond trailer.  

My favorite part of the house is our dining room, which was previously boarded up and divided into two small shag carpeted bedrooms. It feels like you’re hugged by the mountains on all sides with a little slice of snow-capped San Gorgonio mountain in the distance. 

We launched Wonder Valley just a few months before moving here. This home has given us the space— physically, mentally, and financially—to grow a business with a lot of care and without compromise. 

Walk us through a typical day at home.

The day usually involves some calls and working with our team, which is based between LA and Joshua Tree. Sometimes we’ll work together in person out of our VW HQ studio here on the property. It always involves some time outside—ideally a walk with our dog, Lefty, into the trails behind our house.

This time of year, I usually end my day with an outdoor shower when the stars are just starting to come out. It’s absolutely beautiful to stargaze from a hot shower out in the open desert, and I’ll bring one of our candles out to illuminate it.

We have an outdoor tub too, and I’ve been bringing Bo in for a bath time during the afternoons. We cook most of our meals at home: simple, healthful meals, made quickly, mostly with produce from the farmers market. Sometimes at night we’ll screen a movie, sometimes we’ll  have friends over, staying in our vintage trailer which now serves as the guest house. I always read in bed until I fall asleep. 

Right now, we have a 6-month-old baby girl named Bo, so our days are a bit unpredictable. Mornings usually start with a shot of olive oil and a pot of tea and a big breakfast for me. Sleeping next to a baby is new. Often I need a little extra time in the morning to come into the day.

Bo seems to really enjoy watching me do my routine in the morning and which is at a delightfully unhurried pace. That routine starts with  Oil Cleansing, perhaps a face mask or some gentle exfoliation, always a Gua Sha. I finish the routine with a dropper of our Wonder Serum which makes me instantly feel refreshed – my skin plumped, well-hydrated and glowing.  I transition from my robe and usually wear a jumpsuit (from my line alsbigdeal.com), which is easy to zip on, comfy to wear while working from home, and easy to breastfeed in. 

Casa Zuma Sharing Platter

Handmade in Los Angeles by our friends at LA Clay, this high temperature glazed stoneware platter is made by hand and versatile for salads, grilled chicken (and chocolate chip cookies!)

Get on the waitlist.

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Madre Linen + Wonder Valley Napkins

Napkins made in collaboration with our friends at Madre Linen. They source the most beautiful linen fabric with such a perfect color palette, it feels like an instantaneous heirloom.

Set of 4 Linen Napkins, $90

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Casa Zuma Salad Bowl

This beautiful handmade wood salad bowl is on our dinner table almost every night, filled with whatever leaves and veggies are in season topped with a drizzle of quality olive oil.

Handcrafted Wood Salad Bowl, $92

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On hosting and gathering

How Alison and Jay bring people together…

What does a great gathering look like for you?

We like to host. I think this was something we both had in common when we came together. I love the trips to the market, coming up with menus and spending a long day cooking. Jay makes our home feel great with floral arrangements, a great playlist he’s made, and a beautiful table setting with incense and candles burning. We both like to grill, sometimes on our small yakitori grill or sometimes on the big outdoor wood-burning grill. There are great trails beyond our home, so we usually take a walk before the meal with a cocktail in hand. 

Get Alison’s recipe for Carrot, Kumquat, and Golden Beet Salad.

What are some products you love for the table?

Our new napkins made in collaboration with our friends at Madre Linen. They source the most beautiful linen fabric with such a perfect color palette, it feels like an instantaneous heirloom.

Kevin Willis for Commune Votive Holders. Our friend and desert neighbor Kevin Willis makes these fantastic perforated ceramic votives and lanterns for candles.

La Soufflerie Glassware. Any glassware by La Soufflerie. It’s all beautiful. We have a pair of the Verre Tete glasses that are shaped like heads

 What’s your must-have cooking tool?

A sharp knife. It’s the most used and essential item, and it should be sharp and feel good in your hand. I personally use a 9” Japanese chefs knife. When my knife is sharp, I feel like I can do anything in the kitchen. Working with a dull knife is like dancing with two left feet. 

Get the recipe for Alison’s Simple Potato Salad with Smoked Chile Aioli.

What are your favorite cookbooks?

The Canal House books. They have a few books out and they were some of my first cookbooks that I bought for myself when I was 20. They are written by two women who have a restaurant and studio not far from where I grew up in New Jersey. I find their food exciting, timeless, honest and delicious. 

The Cannelle et Vanille cookbooks. Aran has given me the ability to bake gluten-free. It’s absolutely empowering to turn out beautiful sourdough loaves, perfect tarts, homemade bagels, and baguettes, all gluten-free. 

Nancy Singleton Hachisu’s books for Japanese cooking, particularly Japan by Phaidon. 

Tell us a few things we’ll always find in your refrigerator? 

Miso, preserved lemons, capers, spicy mustard, yuzu kosho, a kraut or kimchi. 

What scares you about entertaining and why?

Doing the dishes! 

Your signature dishes for gatherings?

Grilled avocado with yuzu kosho to start, and vanilla ice cream with Wonder Valley Olive Oil and sea salt to finish. Both are extremely simple and incredibly crowd-pleasing. 

Your go-to weeknight meal to eat at home?

Roast chicken is a staple here—it’s the gift that keeps on giving. This usually starts with a whole chicken roasted with some herbs, lemons and garlic. I’ll make a pan sauce with it over vegetables and rice. Then we stretch it out with some leftover salads, sandwiches and a stock from the bones. 

What’s one tip for someone who wants to host a gathering on a budget?

Taco night is pretty fantastic on a budget, and no one’s ever mad about it. It’s easy to stretch braised meat and go heavy with beans and vegetables. Everyone gets to make their own plate, which is helpful if they have dietary issues. It’s also a condiment game; make a chili oil, salsa, guacamole, salsa verde. We buy a big bag of Maseca corn flour (available at most food stores) and make tortillas by hand with a little press. It really elevates taco night and also gets all your guests involved rolling, pressing and frying tortillas. 

Get the recipe for Alison’s Italian Salsa Verde.

The perfect dinner party playlist includes:

Good music! Our music tastes encompass a lot of styles, genres, and eras. Here’s a favorite we use a lot. It was made for the opening of our bar La Reina, in Santa Fe, a few years ago.

Go-to centerpiece:

A bottle of Wonder Valley olive oil. An empty bottle makes a great candlestick or flower vase. 

What is your no-stress party rule to live by? 

Don’t swim upstream. If something’s not working (someone bailed last minute, a dish burned, everything is taking an hour longer), just roll with it. No one will remember or notice it anyway, but everyone will feel the stress radiating off of their host if you let it. 

Get Alison’s recipe for Gluten-Free Citrus Cake with Strawberries and Cardamom Coconut Cream.

Dream dinner guests?

John Waters, Ramdane Touhami, Helen Nearing, John Prine, Dolly Parton, and Sade. 

Fill in the blank:

A perfect meal should …

Leave room for spontaneity and improvising. And unique condiments! 

It’s not a dinner party without …

Music! 

Every cook should know how to…

Make a balanced vinaigrette for a perfect, simple salad.

The post A Desert Dinner Party with Wonder Valley Founder, Alison Carroll appeared first on Camille Styles.

A central part of all of this is food culture—the French love food to a degree that borders on obsession, and the ability to appreciate it is a nonnegotiable. Which is why my friend, celebrated food writer and stylist Rebekah Peppler, has spent the past several years of her career living in Paris and traveling throughout France, telling stories and sharing secrets behind French food. Her newest book, Le Sud, shares the food, drink, and lifestyle of the South of France—a place that’s long captured my imagination (and that I’m finally visiting with our family this summer!)

“The thing is, all the clichés you’ve heard about the south of France are true,” says Peppler. “The light takes on new forms by the hour, casting beauty on the simplest pleasures.

There are open-air markets bursting with sun-ripened produce; the surprisingly loud, surprisingly comforting surround sound of cicadas in late summer; acres of olive trees, lavender, and sunflowers; cliffs that drop into salt-heavy turquoise coves. And the food? It’s not overrated. The figs, the ratatouille, the aïoli, the crispy panisse, pissaladière, braids of garlic, Provençal melons, an overwhelming variety of local cheeses, actually good tapenades, and all the rest.

Peppler notes that this is the part of France where the French themselves holiday. “It is where throngs of Europeans descend for summer vacances—doing their best French cosplay while lounging, flirting, apéro-ing in the sun. American in Paris, yes yes sure, but the south is no stranger to American expats, of which I am just one in a steady line.”

Cheers to French Girl Summer

If you think of French food as fancy or fussy, these recipes are not that. Instead, these are simple meals cooked from the freshest ingredients at home in Provence or on a picnic blanket on the Côte d’Azur. The places where the French themselves holiday, “lounging, flirting, apéro-ing in the sun.” So, what better way to welcome summer than by cooking like a French girl on vacation? Whatever your travel plans are for the months ahead, cooking a meal from Le Sud is the perfect way to escape to a golden-lit reality. And you might as well invite a few friends to join.

Read on for your South of France dinner party menu from the pages of Le Sud—and be sure to grab your copy and romanticize your cooking all summer long.

Le Sud by Rebekah Peppler

$31.99 at Target

Rebekah Peppler’s Menu for a South of France Dinner Party:

La Grande Plage Cocktail

This is the spritz to make when you’re by the sea (or want to be) and desire something lightly bitter and bubbly and giving sunset in a cup.

Whole Roasted Fish

“For the most ease, ask your fishmonger to clean and scale whatever is freshest and make this version, prettily stuffed with lemon slices and a simple pistou,” says Peppler.

Bendita Entre los Melones

Literally “blessed between the melons,” this recipe title is inspired by a Spanish saying, “bendito entre las mujeres” or “blessed among the women.”

The post How to Cook Dinner Like a French Girl on Holiday appeared first on Camille Styles.

But thanks to the fact that I started my career in catering (combined with the countless dinner parties I’ve thrown over the years), I’ve assembled quite a collection of dinner party menu ideas to feed a crowd that check all my required boxes. All of these dinner party recipes are:

• Crowd-pleasing dishes that almost everyone loves.
• Leverage large-batch cooking, like a sheet pan or grill, so that I’m not laboriously sautéing 16 individual fish fillets or frying 12 eggs to top salads.
• And most importantly, I can do almost all the prep in advance so that by the time my guests arrive, I can join the party with them.

24 Dinner Party Menu Ideas Any Crowd Will Love

I divided this post into recipes that I make for dinners with 4-6 guests (due to the cooking techniques, or the fact that they incorporate pricier ingredients), and the recipes that are really easy to double or triple to feed a true crowd. These leverage larger cuts of meat, build-your-own components that let guests adapt to their dietary needs, and less expensive ingredients so your party budget doesn’t get out of control.

The next time you find yourself hosting an evening get-together and wondering what to make, bookmark this post for 24 easy dinner party menu ideas to feed a crowd. Trust me: all these recipes will leave your dinner guests happy, satisfied, and waiting for when their next invite arrives in the mail.

Dinner Party for 4-6 Guests

Ratatouille-Style Roasted Vegetable Pasta

What makes it party-ready: At first glance, a pasta dish might not seem special enough for a dinner party meal. But this isn’t just any pasta recipe. While it’s easy to prep and cook, it makes the most of a few flavor-packed ingredients that’ll take your meal up a notch. Plus, the pop of green it brings to your table rivals any floral centerpiece. Major wow-factor.

Make it a feast:

• Start your meal with this flavorful eggplant spread. Perfect served with big tears of crusty bread.
• A simple salad won’t compete with the pasta’s plant-based goodness.

Roast Chicken With Tomatoes, Lemons, & Cilantro Salsa Verde

What makes it party-ready: Everyone loves roast chicken. This one has just enough interesting and surprising flavors to make it feel dinner party-worthy. Those charred lemons—yum! Watch me make it start to finish.

Make it a feast:

• Chermoula Roasted Sweet Potatoes
• A bowl of fresh arugula with lemon juice, olive oil, and (optional) thick shavings of parmesan.

Easy Homemade Pizza

What makes it party-ready: My grilled pizza is truly made for a party. But I’ll admit, it’s a little chaotic to make for more than six people. That’s why I usually bring it out at more intimate gatherings where everyone can get involved. (This pizza party was one of my favorite gatherings ever.) The recipe above is for my homemade pizza dough. Make several dough balls in advance—I usually plan on three doughs for six people—let them rest at room temp for a couple hours before party time and proceed with your favorite pizza toppings and method of cooking.

Make it a feast:

• Roasted Cauliflower With Garlic Tahini and Chimichurri
• A good Caesar salad like this Avocado Kale Caesar or this one with grilled romaine.

Grilled New York Strip Steaks With Chimichurri

What makes it party-ready: This is probably mine and Adam’s most frequently-made meal for a dinner party. It’s incredibly easy to pull together and fun for everyone to hang out down by the grill while we make it. I usually buy one large New York Strip for every two people. Slice into 1″ pieces and serve on a big platter surrounded by grilled tomatoes. Since this is a pricier cut of meat, it feels really special and I typically reserve it for a smaller dinner party. For a bigger gathering, an affordable cut of steak like flank is a great option, too. (You’ll just want to marinate it beforehand and adjust the cooking time.)

Make it a feast: 

• Crispy Roasted Sweet Potatoes
• Grilled asparagus

Hot Honey Salmon With Coconut Crunch

What makes it party-ready: These salmon bowls are a great meal for a summertime gathering on a hot day. They feel so light and refreshing, but still really special. For a girls’ night, I love to set out all the toppings and let everyone build their own bowls. Not only is it a fun way to get people interacting, but it also allows guests with other dietary restrictions to pick and choose their ingredients.

Make it a feast: One of the beautiful things about this dish is that it’s truly a complete meal in a bowl. The only thing I’d add is refreshing scoops of mango sorbet (or mango-basil ice cream) for dessert!

Simple Zucchini Pasta

What makes it party-ready: Sometimes, a party just needs pasta. That said, it’s not ideal for serving a super large group since it does need a bit of last-minute attention (plus, you’d need a really big pan for tossing it all together). This streamlined zucchini pasta combines simple ingredients into one luscious and luxurious bowl that everyone loves.

Make it a feast: A loaf of crusty bread, plus a simple salad with fresh greens (and a bottle of pinot gris).

Orange-Chili Glazed Pork Tenderloin With Carrot Pesto and Grilled Carrots

What makes it party-ready: I make this one when my mother-in-law comes over since she loves pork tenderloin. This dish is perfect with a double dose of carrots. It’s a great one to make outside on the grill, but in the cooler months, you can also roast it all in the oven. Pork tenderloin is one of those cuts of meat that is made for serving a crowd. You could easily scale this recipe depending on your guest count, then slice it up and arrange on a big family-style platter.

Make it a feast: The carrots are a super satisfying side dish on their own, and the pesto adds richness and flavor, so you’re almost already in feast territory with just this recipe. For a dinner party, I’d add some herb-roasted potatoes or a simple kale salad.

Grilled Salmon with Stone Fruit Salsa

What makes it party-ready: This is one of those super satisfying recipes that feels way fancier than it is. And in my experience, salmon is one of the most universally loved fish dishes. Bonus: it’s foolproof! Grilling salmon on a cedar plank is an easy way to infuse this fish with smoky flavors while ensuring it stays tender and moist. Plus, that stone fruit salsa adds the perfect bit of sweetness to complement the charred fish.

Make it a feast:

• I like serving this salmon with a side of herbed quinoa or wild rice. The fluffy texture and nutty flavor offer a satisfying contrast.
• For a lighter side, toss together a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to add some tang to the mix.

Sheet Pan Halibut With Italian Salsa Verde and Asparagus

What makes it party-ready: Here is one of those super-impressive meals that also happens to take very little effort. Why? Because halibut is one of the best fish ever. Plus, the fact that this is made on a sheet pan allows you to easily make several fillets at once. It has a light, clean flavor and buttery, flaky texture, so it doesn’t take much for it to be delicious. I simply roast mine with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then top it with a bright Italian salsa verde.

Make it a feast: Add some potatoes that can roast right along with the fish on a separate baking sheet. Or, you can opt for a little more green and serve it with a big kale salad.

Grilled Yogurt-Marinated Chicken with All the Herbs

What makes it party-ready: If you haven’t tried marinating your chicken in Greek yogurt, this recipe will change that fast. It’s beyond easy (and inexpensive) to throw chicken thighs in a delicious marinade and grill for a crowd. Fresh herbs and honey add a bit of zest and sweetness that complement this juicy chicken.

Make it a feast: Serve this protein with a side salad or crispy roasted potatoes for an all-around simple and delicious meal that everyone will be gushing about.

Sweet & Spicy Braised Short Ribs

What makes it party-ready: Everyone always asks me for this braised short rib recipe after dinner parties, and they’re always shocked to learn how simple it is. I like to add some fresh herbs over the top along with red onion and lemon zest to brighten up the plate. Because presentation matters.

Make it a feast:

• Crispy Smashed Fingerling Potatoes
• Your favorite dip of choice.

Spicy Tuna Tostada with Avocado and Crispy Shallots

What makes it party-ready: Toastadas are a go-to for a few reasons whenever I’m looking to impress my guests with easy dinner party menu ideas. They’re customizable, so everyone can pick and choose what they want to add. This recipe is also a winner for gluten-free guests. Simply swap in a Siete tortilla baked in the oven for a grain-free and gluten-free tostada. 

Make it a feast: This Mexican chopped salad is just hearty enough to round out your meal.

Dinner Party Recipes to Feed a Crowd

Damn That’s a Keeper Winter Vegetable Lasagna

What makes it party-ready: Lasagna can lean a little labor-intensive, but take heart: this dish can be made in advance. In my experience, all variations on the classic lasagna are winners—but this spin is my favorite take yet. It’s hearty and warming without any meat, and the filling makes the most of everyone’s favorite fall veg, butternut squash. The flavors are rich and complex—and if you’re feeling up to it, the recipe also shows you how to make the pasta yourself. It’s a dish worth bragging about.

Make it a feast: Cut the lasagna’s richness with a bitter side, like this radicchio salad. Or, if you want to send the fall flavors home, this apple and arugula salad is one of my favorites.

Danielle Walker’s Turkey Chili Verde

What makes it party-ready: When the colder months hit, I love serving dishes that evoke elevated comfort. They’re simple and warming, but just special enough. This flavor-packed chili comes courtesy of Danielle Walker, our go-to for paleo-friendly, delicious recipes. If you want to make it vegetarian, simply omit the turkey and bump up all the veggies. Danielle suggests either diced zucchini or minced portobello mushrooms. Yum!

Make it a feast: Salty tortilla chips or your favorite cornbread are ideal for dipping. Top each bowl with sour cream or Greek yogurt, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime

Slow-Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

What makes it party-ready: Even those who aren’t well-versed in Indian cuisine will love chicken tikka masala. Although I frequently make this recipe on a busy weekday for our family, it’s also perfect for a big feast. (Triple or even quadruple the recipe—your slow cooker can handle it!) Plus, the fact that you make this several hours before dinner and it cooks away while you’re free to do other stuff is pretty awesome.

Make it a feast: An Indian-inspired feast means serving one or two other dishes like Saag Paneer, Samosa Chaat Fries, or Indian Butter Cauliflower. Also required: warm naan and a big pot of rice.

Easy Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup

What makes it party-ready: I’ve made this soup for countless book clubs, family gatherings, and friends who have just had babies. Everyone says it’s the best chicken tortilla soup they’ve had, and it’s just as easy to make a big batch by scaling the ingredients. Sure, a pot of soup may not sound like a party, but watch me make it here and see for yourself how festive all those beautiful ingredients look together. Plus, the smorgasbord of colorful toppings lets guests have fun building their own perfect bowl of soup.

Make it a feast: I usually serve this soup on its own—with all the toppings, it feels complete! But it’s never a bad idea to kick off a Mexican-style feast with really good chips, a couple of great guacamoles, and salsa.

Whole Roasted Side of Salmon With Citrus, Chiles, and Herbs

What makes it party-ready: During my catering career, I learned that one of the best ways to feed a crowd elegantly is with a big roasted side of salmon. It looks impressive coming out of the oven and is the perfect centerpiece to a buffet. If you’re intimidated by buying a side of salmon, don’t be! There’s nothing to it, you literally just ask the fishmonger for “a side of salmon”—I usually plan for five to six ounces per person. (You may even be able to convince them to remove the skin for you!) This one, with roasted citrus slices, is a great main course option for Easter or Mother’s Day. I’ve also served it with great success for cozy girls’ nights with a bottle of pinot noir.

Make it a feast:

• Rainbow Carrots with Yogurt and Pistachios
• Arugula Salad with Strawberries and Goat Cheese

Lime-y Chicken Tacos With Jicama, Avocado, and Mint

What makes it party-ready: I love a taco night-themed party. When it comes to dinner party recipes, few dishes are more festive, and this surprisingly delicious combo of chicken, jicama, avocado, and mint elevates the entire setup. For a group, I usually set out a couple of big platters on the table with all the ingredients, pass around the tortillas, and let everyone assemble their own tacos family-style.

Make it a feast: For a larger group, I like to offer a vegetarian option since there’s usually at least someone who’s not eating meat. Taco night makes it easy: you can roast some cauliflower and let guests build these delicious all-veg tacos if they so choose. I love them just as much as the chicken, so I’ll usually eat one of each.

Lamb Meatballs in Tomato Sauce With Fresh Ricotta

What makes it party-ready: A couple of years back, chef Seamus Mullen served these unbelievably delicious lamb meatballs as the centerpiece to a dinner party he hosted in Santa Monica. As someone who doesn’t cook with lamb very often, I came home feeling inspired to make this spicy lamb meatballs recipe for my next gathering. Although they feel special occasion-worthy, they couldn’t be simpler.

Make it a feast: Take a cue from Chef Mullen’s dinner party and serve with whole roasted cauliflower with salsa verde and a zesty radish, fennel, and grapefruit salad. Or, you could go more classic Italian and serve it on top of a big bowl of olive oil-tossed spaghetti.

Pita and Kebab Board

What makes it party-ready: The last thing we want to be doing at a party is worrying about lots of different meal components coming out of the oven at exactly the right time. One solution? A dinner board that contains everything guests need to build their own perfect plate. This easy and flavor-packed pita and kebab version is not only gorgeous, but it’s also perfect for satisfying a range of dietary needs. Vegetarians on board? Make them meatless. Gluten-free friends can skip the pita. The list of variations is truly endless.

Make it a feast: This board has it all: hummus, feta, roasted tomatoes, olives, sliced cucumbers, diced veggie salad, and roasted garlic. What more could you ask for?

Carne Asada Tacos

What makes it party-ready: Oaxaca has quickly become one of my favorite places to visit. With its vibrant culture and diverse food scene, there’s so much for travelers to soak up. Alongside all the beautiful, artisan-made goods I’ve sourced for Casa Zuma, I’ve also found inspiration in the many meals I’ve happily devoured. Case in point: bold and bright carne asada tacos that benefits from a mix of herbs, garlic, and plenty of spices. These are perfect for al fresco dining season.

Make it a feast:

• Charro Beans
• Mexican Rice
• Perfect Margaritas

Chicken Fire Stew

What makes it party-ready: This stew is a stealth pick for party food. It feels like the comfort food your mama might have made, but when presented with as much style as Shelley Armistead did at her beach dinner, it’s suddenly elevated to special occasion status. What makes this dish perfect for a crowd is that you can truly throw everything in the pot and walk away. An hour later, dinner is served. Shower with herbs and edible flowers—both for flavor and a gorgeous presentation.

Make it a feast: Serve alongside spring rice with greens and peas.

Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Grapefruit-Avocado Salsa

What makes it party-ready: These shrimp have been on repeat in my kitchen this summer. Their flavor is incredible and the endless amount of toppings makes it perfect for just about everyone. Trust me, this is THE grilling recipe for all of your outdoor dinner gatherings.

Make it a feast: Guacamole, or any other Mexican-inspired dip, can be served either on your taco or as a side dish with chips. I also love serving these tacos with a Mexican chopped salad to add some extra greens to the table.

Skillet Eggplant Lasagna

What makes it party-ready: One-pan dishes that serve a crowd make dinner party hosting incredibly easy. If you’ve never tried eggplant lasagna, this recipe is a great place to start. It turns a classic dish into something both stunning and healthy. You’ll never cook your lasagna the same again.

Make it a feast: With a heavier dish, I always serve something on the lighter side as my side dish or appetizer. Perhaps an easy bruschetta or a simple salad to spruce up your table and keep guests wanting more.

The post When I’m Hosting a Dinner Party, These Are the Recipes I Always Return To appeared first on Camille Styles.

And if you haven’t realized it yet, the game doesn’t have to be left in the past. “Never Have I Ever” never, ever gets old. It’s often how friends and I wrap up the evening, sitting around the fire or cozying up on the couch to bear our souls. (Yes, it can get intense.) I can guarantee, no matter how well you know each other at the beginning, the “never have I ever” questions ahead guarantee you’ll be fast friends by the end of the night.

How to Play “Never Have I Ever”

If it’s been a moment since you played “Never Have I Ever,” here’s a refresher.

Setup:

1. Gather Participants: The game can be played with any number of people, but a group of 4-10 is typically ideal.
2. Seating: Have everyone sit in a circle so all players can see each other.

Game Rules:

1. Starting the Game: One person starts by saying, “Never have I ever…” followed by something they have never done. For example, “Never have I ever been skydiving.”
2. Responding:
   • If a player has done what the speaker mentions, they must perform a predetermined action, depending on the type of game you’re playing. Typically, it’s either putting down one finger (if playing the “Ten Fingers” version) or taking a sip of a drink (if you’re getting a little rowdier).
   • If a player hasn’t done the action, the fingers stay up and/or the drink remains untouched.
3. Next Turn: Play continues around the circle, and the next person makes a “Never have I ever…” statement.

Winning the Game:

There isn’t a winner or loser in the traditional sense. The objective is mainly to have fun and get to know each other. However, for the competitive players among us, the last person with the most fingers remaining up (or the least drinks taken) can be considered the winner.

Top 10 Absolute Best “Never Have I Ever” Questions

The best questions can vary depending on the group playing the game. However, here are ten great questions that are versatile enough to be intriguing, revealing, and enjoyable for almost any group:

1. Never have I ever taken a risk that was completely worth it.
   • This question can lead to inspiring and motivational stories.
2. Never have I ever met someone at a bar.
   • A lighthearted question that can lead to funny or romantic stories.
3. Never have I ever pretended not to see someone, so I didn’t have to talk to them.
   • Often relatable and can lead to humorous confessions.
4. Never have I ever lied about myself on a dating app.
   • This can reveal funny and interesting tales about modern dating.
5. Never have I ever been caught in a compromising situation.
   • Likely to uncover some juicy and potentially embarrassing stories.
6. Never have I ever taken a solo trip.
   • Encourages sharing of personal growth experiences and adventurous tales.
7. Never have I ever changed someone’s mind about something important.
   • This can lead to discussions about persuasive skills and significant life impacts.
8. Never have I ever helped a stranger in need.
   • Opens up the floor to heartwarming and kind stories.
9. Never have I ever been fired from a job.
   • Can reveal interesting circumstances and learning experiences.
10. Never have I ever danced in an elevator.
    • A fun and light question that can lead to laughs and shared moments of spontaneity.

Juiciest Never Have I Ever Questions

1. Never have I ever eavesdropped on a conversation.
2. Never have I ever had a secret relationship.
3. Never have I ever lied about my marital status.
4. Never have I ever sent an anonymous gift.
5. Never have I ever spied on my neighbors.
6. Never have I ever stolen something from a restaurant (like a spoon or a glass).
7. Never have I ever had a crush on a teacher or professor.
8. Never have I ever made up a story about myself to impress someone.
9. Never have I ever had a wardrobe malfunction in public.
10. Never have I ever pretended to like a gift I hated.
11. Never have I ever snuck into a movie or concert.
12. Never have I ever lied about my job to sound cooler.
13. Never have I ever been caught in a compromising situation.
14. Never have I ever sent a text to the wrong person on purpose.
15. Never have I ever pretended not to see someone, so I didn’t have to talk to them.

Spicy Never Have I Ever Questions

1. Never have I ever kissed a stranger.
2. Never have I ever had a crush on someone playing this game right now.
3. Never have I ever ghosted someone I was dating.
4. Never have I ever had a threesome.
5. Never have I ever had a crush on a co-worker.
6. Never have I ever dated or hooked up with someone 15 years older or younger than me.
7. Never have I ever fallen in love at first sight.
8. Never have I ever flirted with a bartender or barista.
9. Never have I ever been in an open relationship.
10. Never have I ever faked an orgasm.
11. Never have I ever gotten a hicky.
12. Never have I ever had sex in a car or public place.
13. Never have I ever had sex in a public place.

Questions About Travel and Adventure

1. Never have I ever left the country.
2. Never have I ever taken a solo trip.
3. Never have I ever gone skydiving.
4. Never have I ever been on a yacht.
5. Never have I ever ridden first class.
6. Never have I ever been scuba diving.
7. Never have I ever been snowboarding.
8. Never have I ever been on a cruise.
9. Never have I ever been in a hot air balloon.
10. Never have I ever gone whale watching.
11. Never have I ever swam across a lake.
12. Never have I ever climbed a mountain.
13. Never have I ever ridden a camel.
14. Never have I ever ridden an elephant.
15. Never have I ever been to more than 30 countries.
16. Never have I ever ridden in a submarine.
17. Never have I ever been in a cave.
18. Never have I ever attended a wedding in another country.
19. Never have I ever been to a major festival like Coachella.
20. Never have I ever lost a personal item in another country.
21. Never have I ever been to a major sports final (e.g., Super Bowl, World Cup).

Funniest Questions to Ask

1. Never have I ever worn socks with sandals.
2. Never have I ever tripped in public and acted like it was intentional.
3. Never have I ever laughed so hard I spit out my drink.
4. Never have I ever walked into a glass door.
5. Never have I ever tried to impress someone and failed miserably.
6. Never have I ever worn clothes inside out and didn’t notice.
7. Never have I ever tried to pull a push door.
8. Never have I ever mixed up my left and right.
9. Never have I ever gotten stuck in a piece of clothing while trying it on.
10. Never have I ever danced in an elevator.
11. Never have I ever had a funny misunderstanding.
12. Never have I ever tried to sound smart and made a fool of myself.
13. Never have I ever walked out of the restroom with toilet paper stuck to my shoe.
14. Never have I ever accidentally waved at a stranger thinking I knew them.
15. Never have I ever sent an embarrassing autocorrect.

Best Questions to Get to Know Someone

1. Never have I ever volunteered for a cause I care about.
2. Never have I ever taken care of a sick friend or family member.
3. Never have I ever pursued a hobby just for myself.
4. Never have I ever taken a risk that was completely worth it.
5. Never have I ever changed someone’s mind about something important.
6. Never have I ever donated something meaningful to me.
7. Never have I ever learned something new just from listening to a friend.
8. Never have I ever helped a stranger in need.
9. Never have I ever taken a big leap of faith in love or career.
10. Never have I ever chosen a path less traveled by others.
11. Never have I ever stood up for someone else in public.
12. Never have I ever adopted a pet.
13. Never have I ever worked a job that changed my perspective on life.
14. Never have I ever learned a language to better communicate with someone.
15. Never have I ever moved to a new city for a fresh start.

Questions to About Behavior and Ethics

1. Never have I ever cheated on a test.
2. Never have I ever lied to my spouse about something important.
3. Never have I ever dined and dashed.
4. Never have I ever used a fake ID.
5. Never have I ever snooped through someone’s phone.
6. Never have I ever broken the law.
7. Never have I ever lied to someone playing this game right now.
8. Never have I ever ended a relationship over text.
9. Never have I ever drunk texted an ex.
10. Never have I ever lied about my relationship status.
11. Never have I ever lied about myself on a dating app.
12. Never have I ever started a rumor.
13. Never have I ever broken a promise.
14. Never have I ever lied on my resume.
15. Never have I ever gambled.
16. Never have I ever broken a bone.
17. Never have I ever run a red light.
18. Never have I ever lied to get out of plans.
19. Never have I ever convinced a friend to dump their partner.
20. Never have I ever lied about my income.
21. Never have I ever fought in public.
22. Never have I ever snooped through a host’s bathroom without them knowing.

Questions About Life Experiences and Challenges

1. Never have I ever gotten into a car crash.
2. Never have I ever skinny-dipped.
3. Never have I ever dyed my hair.
4. Never have I ever had a cosmetic procedure done.
5. Never have I ever gotten a tattoo.
6. Never have I ever gotten a piercing.
7. Never have I ever Googled myself.
8. Never have I ever had a tweet retweeted by a celebrity.
9. Never have I ever tried psychedelics.
10. Never have I ever gotten stitches.
11. Never have I ever gotten stuck in an elevator.
12. Never have I ever had a bad allergic reaction.
13. Never have I ever worn glasses with fake lenses.
14. Never have I ever had a regret.
15. Never have I ever wished I had a different life.
16. Never have I ever had my heart broken.
17. Never have I ever broken someone’s heart.
18. Never have I ever given up on a dream.
19. Never have I ever cried at work.
20. Never have I ever lived alone.
21. Never have I ever won a contest.
22. Never have I ever written a poem.
23. Never have I ever had an article published.
24. Never have I ever won a significant amount of money in a lottery.
25. Never have I ever had a video go viral.
26. Never have I ever made a significant scientific discovery.
27. Never have I ever applied for a patent.
28. Never have I ever won a photography contest.

Questions About Social & Leisure Activities

1. Never have I ever regifted something.
2. Never have I ever met a celebrity.
3. Never have I ever tried a trendy diet.
4. Never have I ever finished a TV series in a day.
5. Never have I ever spent the whole day in my pajamas.
6. Never have I ever gone to court.
7. Never have I ever blocked a friend or family member on social media.
8. Never have I ever smoked a cigarette.
9. Never have I ever done a prank call.
10. Never have I ever attended a masquerade.
11. Never have I ever been on a TV or radio show.
12. Never have I ever played in a band.
13. Never have I ever attended a comic con.
14. Never have I ever sung karaoke in front of a crowd.
15. Never have I ever attended an opera.
16. Never have I ever been part of a book club.
17. Never have I ever participated in a talent show.
18. Never have I ever attended a TED Talk.
19. Never have I ever been in a choir.
20. Never have I ever been part of a historical reenactment.
21. Never have I ever had a part in a movie.
22. Never have I ever painted a portrait.
23. Never have I ever been involved in a TV commercial.
24. Never have I ever been to a drive-in movie.
25. Never have I ever attended a virtual reality experience.
26. Never have I ever participated in a protest.
27. Never have I ever participated in a flash mob.
28. Never have I ever been in a food fight.
29. Never have I ever ridden a mechanical bull.
30. Never have I ever attended a murder mystery dinner.
31. Never have I ever been to a silent retreat.
32. Never have I ever baked my own bread.
33. Never have I ever taken a pottery class.
34. Never have I ever gone vegan.
35. Never have I ever made a candle.
36. Never have I ever built a model airplane.
37. Never have I ever written a fan letter.
38. Never have I ever milked a cow.
39. Never have I ever participated in competitive eating.
40. Never have I ever caught a fish.
41. Never have I ever practiced yoga regularly.
42. Never have I ever completed a jigsaw puzzle with more than 1000 pieces.
43. Never have I ever volunteered at a shelter.
44. Never have I ever adopted an endangered animal.
45. Never have I ever owned more than 10 pets at once.
46. Never have I ever owned an exotic pet.
47. Never have I ever rescued an animal.
48. Never have I ever lived on a farm.
49. Never have I ever had a pet reptile.

Best Totally Random Questions

1. Never have I ever ignored the expiration date on a food label.
2. Never have I ever thought a cartoon character was hot.
3. Never have I ever peed my pants as an adult.
4. Never have I ever left a negative review.
5. Never have I ever fought someone in public.
6. Never have I ever been fired from a job.
7. Never have I ever fainted.
8. Never have I ever eaten dog or cat food.
9. Never have I ever cut my own bangs.
10. Never have I ever eaten a coworker’s lunch from the office fridge.
11. Never have I ever had credit card debt.
12. Never have I ever gone commando.
13. Never have I ever been to a strip club.
14. Never have I ever pretended to be sick to get out of work.
15. Never have I ever stayed awake for 24 hours or more.
16. Never have I ever worn the same outfit two days in a row.
17. Never have I ever read an entire book in a day.
18. Never have I ever accidentally said “I love you” to someone.
19. Never have I ever met someone at a bar.
20. Never have I ever been on a blind date.
21. Never have I ever had a paranormal experience.
22. Never have I ever completed a marathon.
23. Never have I ever learned a martial art.
24. Never have I ever had a surprise party thrown for me.
25. Never have I ever been detained by police.
26. Never have I ever been part of a jury.
27. Never have I ever been recognized in public.
28. Never have I ever been to a fortune teller.
29. Never have I ever built a robot.
30. Never have I ever been hypnotized.
31. Never have I ever lost a bet.

Never Have I Ever Questions for Families

1. Never have I ever forgotten my homework.
2. Never have I ever read a book in one day.
3. Never have I ever learned to play a musical instrument.
4. Never have I ever built something with LEGO.
5. Never have I ever collected stamps, coins, or trading cards.
6. Never have I ever been to a summer camp.
7. Never have I ever made a friendship bracelet.
8. Never have I ever scored a goal in soccer.
9. Never have I ever taken a dance class.
10. Never have I ever ridden a horse.
11. Never have I ever gone hiking with my family.
12. Never have I ever done a cartwheel.
13. Never have I ever dressed up as a superhero.
14. Never have I ever had a pillow fight.
15. Never have I ever built a fort in my living room.
16. Never have I ever had a pet fish.
17. Never have I ever won a game of hide and seek.
18. Never have I ever tried sushi.
19. Never have I ever cooked a meal with my parents.
20. Never have I ever eaten breakfast for dinner.
21. Never have I ever helped bake cookies.
22. Never have I ever tried a food I thought I wouldn’t like and ended up liking it.
23. Never have I ever been on a plane.
24. Never have I ever visited a zoo.
25. Never have I ever seen the ocean.
26. Never have I ever been to a national park.
27. Never have I ever gone on a road trip.
28. Never have I ever stayed up until midnight on New Year’s Eve.
29. Never have I ever gone trick-or-treating.
30. Never have I ever opened a present before Christmas morning.
31. Never have I ever made my own Halloween costume.
32. Never have I ever thrown a surprise party for someone.
33. Never have I ever made a new friend at school.
34. Never have I ever told a secret to my best friend.
35. Never have I ever been to a friend’s birthday party.
36. Never have I ever shared my lunch with a friend.
37. Never have I ever been to a sleepover.
38. Never have I ever planted a tree.
39. Never have I ever slept under the stars.
40. Never have I ever built a snowman.
41. Never have I ever ridden in a limousine.

The post 250 Best “Never Have I Ever” Questions to Heat Up Game Night appeared first on Camille Styles.

It’s a no-pressure meal that’s low on prep, so everyone can kick back and enjoy (yes, moms included). In the lead-up to this year’s holiday, I teamed up with Target to share a simple and special Mother’s Day Brunch menu. Another reason I love this menu so much? Because you can get all the ingredients from Good & Gather at Target. (Think: same-day delivery thanks to the new Target Circle 360 subscription.)

It’s perfect for celebrating your own mom or even if you’re a mom who loves to cook, gather, and celebrate herself. (Just promise me you’ll leave the dishes for someone else.) Read on for the menu, recipes, and my favorite Target finds for setting the table this spring.

Women’s Midi Ballet Dress – A New Day

$25 at Target

The Simplest Way to Treat Yourself This Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day gifts run the gamut. I love receiving creative, sentimental cards from my kids, and Adam has always been a thoughtful gift-giver. But I also see the holiday as an opportunity to treat myself. Whether that’s a special indulgence or something simple and small, it’s so important to pour back into ourselves. (Because really, how often do we do that?)

You guys know I’ll take any chance I can get to make a Target run. Which is why I’m excited about the revamped Target Circle loyalty program. Because they offer so many goodies across home, food, beauty, fashion, and more, I love that the program curates products specifically for your lifestyle. Seriously—it’s so personalized, helping you craft a beautiful, joy-sparking life at home and out in the world.

Some of my favorite benefits from joining Target Circle:

• Loyalty Program. You get automatic access to deals, exclusive partner perks, community support, and bonuses just for you.
• Target Card. You’ll save an extra 5% in-store and online, get free two-day shipping, and no-rush returns.
• Target Circle 360 Subscription. Same-day delivery for groceries and last-minute gifts? Yes, please. Plus, receive free two-day shipping and no-rush returns.

Join the Target Circle Community! It’s free and so simple to sign up.

Set the Scene

Finally—the weather’s gorgeous in Austin, which means we’ll be eating as many meals in the backyard as possible for the foreseeable future. When it comes to outdoor entertaining, my focus is on bright seasonal recipes and simple table setting ideas to elevate the vibe. It doesn’t take much: think a beautiful tablecloth or an earthy wood serving board that takes center stage on an otherwise minimal table.

I stocked up at Target on a few pretty things to elevate my table setups for brunches, barbecues, and dinner parties this summer. For me, the table is a place for creativity and expressing my personal style through food and aesthetics that bring me joy. And it doesn’t take a lot to make a table feel really special. For this one, I used a textural throw as a tablecloth on the table in my backyard, with white stoneware dinner plates as the canvas for seasonal food. Rustic wood serving pieces and glass jars filled with spring branches are the ultimate spring centerpiece.

The great thing about mostly sticking to a palette of neutrals is that you can mix and match seamlessly. If you only have three or four of a certain type of bowl or cup, alternate every other one and it’ll look intentional. It’s all about embracing imperfections, so don’t overthink it—just go with the flow.

Wicker Stack Outdoor Patio Dining Chair Armless Chair Black – Threshold

$85 at Target

Textured Rib Stripe Dobby Throw Blanket – Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

$29.99 at Target

Textured Stripe Dobby Throw Blanket with Corner Tassels Blush – Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

$25.49 at Target

Simple Spring Place Settings

As mentioned, we’re keeping it simple. A neutral color palette makes it easy to keep things looking streamlined while allowing you to create visual interest by layering textures and complementary hues. I love the look of rattan set against other light colors. It works well with pinks, taupe, and off-whites with darker touches like brown and pops of green for a sense of freshness.

Because we’re working with a minimal table, it’s easy to incorporate other materials into the design without creating too much contrast or overwhelming the table. Opt for softer, woven fabrics for your napkins and tablecloth. And I love the look of these amber-tinted vases used as vessels for fresh-picked garden blooms.

20pc Stainless Steel Burlington Silverware Set – Threshold

$40 at Target

10″ Stoneware Dinner Plate – Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

$4.49 at Target

13″ Rubberwood Plate Charger Natural – Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

$10.19 at Target

On the Mother’s Day Brunch Menu

This Mother’s Day Brunch menu includes a delicious yogurt bowl, crowd-pleasing farmer’s market frittata, and show-stopping lemon, raspberry, and almond cake (that also happens to be grain-free). All can be prepped ahead to keep this gathering high on fun and low on stress.

Keep scrolling for the recipes, plus all the Good & Gather ingredients to load up on for your simple but special Mother’s Day brunch menu.

11.5″ Wooden Cake Stand with Glass Cloche – Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

$39.99 at Target

10″ Round Wooden Paddle Serving Board – Hearth & Hand with Magnolia”

$9.99 at Target

6oz 4pk Glass Entertaining Cocktail Coupe Glasses – Threshold

$25 at Target

Grain-Free Lemon Raspberry Almond Cake

This show-stopper is not only visually stunning but also deliciously satisfying. The sweet raspberries and the citrusy lemon paired with the nutty almond flavor create the springiest springtime dessert. I packed this recipe with a few heavy-hitting ingredients that send this cake over the top. First, I love incorporating whole milk ricotta into the batter. It makes your cake unbelievably light and fluffy—and yes, incredibly moist.

And since embarking on my gut-healing journey, I’ve opted for a grain-free diet that’s not only helping me feel my best but keeping me creative in the kitchen. As a result, I’ve gotten to experiment with countless alt-flours that make my favorite desserts grain-free and add their own special flavor and texture. This cake leans on almond flour for a distinctly nutty crumb. So no matter who you invite to your Mother’s Day brunch, everyone will be able to indulge.

Stock up on these:

Galbani Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese – 15oz

$4.69 at Target

Almond Flour – 16oz – Good & Gather

$6.39 at Target

Sliced Almonds – 6oz – Good & Gather

$3.89 at Target

Shop all Figmint 12″ Enamel Skillet – Figmint

$40 at Target

4pk Cotton Slub with Tassel Trim Tied Fringe Napkin Light Beige – Threshold

$10 at Target

Market Frittata with Asparagus, Goat Cheese, and Potatoes

A frittata is usually my go-to choice for a laid-back brunch. It’s so easy to prep in advance, and you can throw it together based on whatever veggies and herbs are hanging out in your fridge. This version, featuring fresh asparagus, creamy goat cheese, and earthy potatoes, can be made ahead and served at room temp. I love that frittatas pair ease with an impressive presentation. Bring this to the table in a gorgeous skillet, and I guarantee that all your guests will be ready to dig in. My final favorite thing about this frittata? It’s as crowd-pleasing as a quiche—but way easier to prepare.

Stock up on these:

Organic Cage-Free Fresh Grade A Large Brown Eggs – 12ct – Good & Gather

$3.99 at Target

Baby Gold Potatoes – 1.5lb – Good & Gather 4.6 out of 5 stars with 1108 reviews 1108

$3.99 at Target

Goat Cheese Log – 8oz – Good & Gather

$4.99 at Target

Yogurt Bowl with Honey, Berries, and Grain-Free Granola

Kids love to help assemble these yogurt bowls. And if they’re like mine, it’ll be their favorite thing to eat, too. Top whole milk Greek yogurt (or my homemade probiotic yogurt) with honey, berries, and crunchy grain-free granola. It’s a feast for the eyes and also so nourishing.

Stock up on these:

Organic Raw Unfiltered Pure Honey – 12oz – Good & Gather

$4.99 at Target

Glass Potomac Tumblers – Threshold

$18 at Target

11″x16″ Wood Cutting & Serve Board Brown – Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

$19.99 at Target

Raise a glass

I mixed up a pitcher of tart grapefruit juice, honey syrup, mint, and Good & Gather sparkling water for a delicious NA bev for all ages. That said, I’m totally in support of spiking yours with Prosecco—delish! Once you stir it up, the result is unbelievably refreshing. What’s more, the drink’s light pink hue plays perfectly with your tablescape.

Stock up on these:

Ribbed Glass Carafe Clear – Threshold

$15 at Target

Brown Glass Decorative Wide Jug Vase – Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

$24.99 at Target

For more of my entertaining, food, decor, and fashion faves, explore and shop my Target storefront

This blog post is sponsored by Target and contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us continue providing helpful content.

The post A Laid-Back Mother’s Day Brunch—3 Simple, Make-Ahead Recipes for Celebrating appeared first on Camille Styles.

This easygoing, highly-intuitive approach to cooking is what defines Camilla’s food, along with her deep appreciation for seasonality and local farmers. And it forms the bedrock of west~bourne, the direct-to-consumer food brand she founded last year which makes “feel good provisions” inspired by California’s bounty. Though I’ve known Camilla for a few years, this shoot would be my first chance to see and taste her cooking up close, and I couldn’t wait to spend the afternoon in her sunshine-filled Los Angeles home surrounded by the spoils of her market run. And I was dying to find out where she’d landed on the menu.

Watch the video from our garden-to-table lunch with Camilla:

But first, a few things you should know. During the pandemic, Camilla and her family moved from New York City, where she owned a restaurant (also called West-bourne), to sunny Los Angeles where they bought and renovated a home, launched west~bourne as her sustainable food brand, and gave birth to their third child. It’s been a busy couple years, but Camilla’s passion for her newest labor of love is evident, and her dedication to making an impact is real. About the company, she said:

west~bourne is on a mission to empower us all to cure the climate crisis through food. We know what works—regenerative farming can have one of the largest impacts on climate change, and the land revolution in our country is already under way with 500 million acres moving towards regenerative practices.

It’s a passion that Camilla brings to everything she does, and I’m continually inspired by the way she lives boldly and authentically. Scroll on for my interview with Camilla, scenes from our lunch in the garden, and all the recipes for the delicious spring menu she prepared for us.

About her west coast life and home

How did you find your home? Did you renovate?

Our home is so special to us—the first we’ve ever really had.  Until this point, we’ve rented and moved just about every two years since being together over the last two decades.  We had a friend who lived on the block that mentioned he heard his neighbors might be moving out of their old ranch style on a large lot. We went immediately to visit, and it turned out that the owner was a friend of dear friends of ours from New York. 

I was nine months pregnant and on the brink of having my daughter, and though it felt like an overwhelming process to buy our first house and prepare to renovate it, everything fell into place so naturally. I believe in signs and that the universe activates when we are ready.  So, it was kismet from the start. 

We did quite a lot to the house.  It had beautiful bones, and we wanted to bring it back to honor its 1951 mid century modern roots. The house wraps around nature, so it’s all about bringing the outdoors in and having a very meditative vibe throughout.  My favorite part is our garden and chicken coop.  We spend a tremendous amount of time as a family out there, talking to our ladies, teaching our kids about growing our own food, and harvesting our amazing bounty for our meals.

What does a typical day look like at home?

Every day is a new one—there’s definitely no ‘typical’ in my life.  I live blended not balanced. 

I wake up around 7:30am and have some cuddles with our dog first.  Then I brush my teeth, and we go to wake up our kids.  The mornings are sacred time for us as a family.  We have a milk and cuddle party, and they all help each other get changed and ready to make breakfast together.  My son especially loves to cook, so usually my two older kids will help me with breakfast while my husband makes coffee for us.  

I only drink one cup a day, so it’s a core ritual to make coffee on our beloved La Marzocco machine, usually with a splash of Rainbo 11:11 extract for an extra brain boost.

We sit down together to talk about the day, set some intentions, and to make sure everyone knows where we all will be. 

Camilla’s approach to hosting and gatherings

What does a great gathering look like to you?

Quality time is my love language, so it’s sacred to me to find ways to forge connection and community.  I love to bring guests into the gathering, whether that’s bringing a dish, helping with a playlist, or sharing their favorite local produce with someone else. I also always strive for an element of surprise, bringing together people who don’t know one another, providing space to feature someone’s talents, doing a shared activity to learn a new skill, or even introducing a new product or food. 

Curiosity can open our minds and lead to a more meaningful exchange of ideas and intentions. 

On the “restorative lunch” menu:

Pink Radicchio Salad with Blood Oranges and Hazelnuts

Einkorn Salad with Charred Squash

Pluot Galette with Creme Fraiche

What scares you about entertaining?

Nothing. Truly, it’s in my soul to bring people together and craft unique experiences. I love every aspect of it, and even welcome the unpredictability and logistics that go along with it.

What are your signature dishes for gatherings?

I actually love to cook something new every time if I can, and I often have never made exactly what I serve before.  I think I love the thrill of a challenge and discovery that makes the experience of cooking for me come alive and where I learn the most.  It adds more pressure to execution, but playing jazz in the kitchen if you will for me infuses vibrancy and surprise that just can’t be scripted and a soul that I think you can taste even if you can’t put your finger quite on it.

Get the recipe for Camilla’s Pink Radicchio Salad with Blood Oranges and Hazelnuts.

How do you approach creating a guest list?

I have an eclectic group of friends and always like to mash groups up, plus throw in some visitors from out of town and total strangers.  I am the queen of the cold call and am never shy to reach out to someone who I have admired or am inspired by and invite them over to a gathering.

What are your tips for making guests feel at ease?

If the host is at ease, guests will be too.  I also feel it’s important to integrate guests into the experience, even in a small way.  It’s easy to be relaxed when you are part of the creation too.

Favorite conversation starter or question to get to know someone?

What’s on your travel bucket list?

The perfect dinner party playlist includes:

A track from each guest.  That always gets the music going on an unexpected journey.

What are some products you love for the table?

Textiles:

• Gjusta Goods
• Atelier Saucier
• Caroline Hurley

Ceramics:

• KH Wurtz
• Mondays in Brooklyn
• Robert Siegel Ceramics

Vases, cutting boards, and stone platforms from Olive Ateliers

Vintage candleholders (I prefer a mix and match)

Vintage flatware, or second hand Jean Dubost Laguiole

Go-to centerpiece solution:

I love bringing together pieces from around the house – jars, vessels, cups and objects – mixed in with fresh produce and foraged foliage.  It’s a mindful way to bring a unique look, welcoming imperfection and inviting nature to the table. 

What is your no-stress party rule to live by? 

The vibe of any event emanates from the host.  If you’re having fun and relaxed, so will everyone else. 

Get the recipe for this Einkorn Salad with Charred Squash.

Dream dinner guests?

• Ruth Bader Ginsburg
• Ina Garten
• Albert Einstein
• Otis Redding

On seasonal cooking

What informs your approach to food?

For me it’s all about cooking holistically to nourish yourself and our planet. What’s good for our soil is always better for our health.

Get the recipe for the Pluot Galette with Creme Fraiche.

What’s your must-have cooking tool and why?

A mandolin is such an easy and inexpensive way to elevate your cooking and plating.  Having a shaved element always evokes restaurant quality and creates something different for your dish.

Tell us a few things we’ll always find in your refrigerator? 

We always have preserved lemons, pickled shallots, cholulah, fermented hot sauce, roasted sesame dressing, white miso, white moustache yogurt, zab’s hot mustard, parmesan, creme fraiche, ghia, kimchi, overnight oats, fresh eggs from our chickens.

Fill in the blank:

A perfect meal should … nourish.

It’s not a dinner party without … interested people.

Every cook should know how to … join the meal with joy.

The post Chef Camilla Marcus Makes the Case for Being a Go-With-the-Flow Host appeared first on Camille Styles.

While the night-in option may have once brought on feelings of FOMO, I haven’t worried about missing out since before March 2020. Sure, a few minutes scrolling through social media might make me wish I had a big trip or night out planned. But I’ve been working hard to cultivate a sense of confidence in my decisions to do what’s best for me. That means releasing the pressure for my New Year’s Eve to be *amazing.* Instead, I’m celebrating exactly how I want to: at home and inspired by one of these ideas below. 

20 New Year’s Eve Party Ideas That Are Just as Good as Going Out

Because staying in for the night doesn’t have to feel like a consolation prize. If anything, spending what’s arguably the most celebrated night of the year chez toi, is a testament to how we’ve learned to get creative and have fun in the comfort of our homes.

Whether you want to get in the kitchen, spend all night marathoning must-watch movies, or getting cozy with friends, let the following ideas remind you that there’s no such thing as being bored at home. Especially on New Year’s Eve.

Make a Vision Board

With a new year incoming, one of my favorite New Year’s Eve traditions is reflecting on my past year to decide what energy I’m bringing into the next. The best way to do this? Create a vision board. This can serve as a reminder of all the goals you wish to achieve but done so in an aesthetic way. Making vision boards as a group is also a great idea to inspire one another and get the ideas flowing.

Have an Outdoor BBQ or Grilling Party

If the weather is as lovely as it is right now in Austin, I highly recommend getting some fresh air and hosting a gathering outside. If you have a grill master in the group, whip up a flavorful and fresh meal that will help foster the good vibes you want going into the new year.

Throw a Pajama Party

Being comfy and cozy is an essential part of my New Year’s Eve plans almost every year. Even if the night begins with festivities, it’s always nice to wind down in your PJs, and maybe enjoy a cozy drink or sweet dessert as the ball drops. Plus, a pajama party is a great way to gather without the pressure of dressing to impress.

Engage in NYE Traditions

Watching the ball drop and counting down to midnight aren’t the only New Year’s Eve traditions you should try this year. Eating lentils is an Italian tradition for the holiday with the goal of achieving prosperity and wealth in the year to come. Eating 12 grapes at midnight is another tradition from Spain, where each grape symbolizes one month. After eating all 12, you can hope to have a lucky year ahead of you.

Have a Family Game Night

Whether you play a classic board game or make up your own, family game nights are always a great way to bring everyone together to ring in the new year. These can be anything from your classics like Monopoly, homemade holiday-themed Jeopardy, or Pictionary.

Throw an Elegant Dinner Party

Never a bad idea for New Year’s Eve. This is a great option if you still want to get dressed up but don’t want to deal with the hassle of going out (too cold, too expensive, too… not my house). And just because it’s elegant doesn’t mean that the preparation has to be hard. DIY a few arrangements (Trader Joe’s is my go-to for florals on the fly), scatter some tea lights throughout your space and set your dream tablescape. And while you’re welcome to make a three-course meal on your own, it’s also totally fine if you want to order from your favorite fancy restaurant. (For the homemade route, see Camille’s favorite hosting menus.)

Settle in for a Spa Night

A different sort of indulgence. In 2024, I’m focused on consistent self-care, and there’s no better way to set that intention in motion than with a dedicated spa night. Ask everyone to bring their favorite nail polish colors and gather all your supplies for manicures, pedicures, and more. An easy way to step (literally) into the New Year feeling your best.

Make All Your Favorite Comfort Foods

New Year’s Eve is about indulgence, and it’s not a party without your favorite foods. Hosting friends for the evening? Settle on a few recipes in advance (the cheesier, the better, in my opinion) and get in the kitchen together. If it’s a larger fête you’re after, make it a potluck! Ask guests to bring their ride-or-die comfort food (mine’s mashed potatoes) and add to the feast. You might want to include a pre-midnight nap in your party plans.

Camp Indoors

Make the most of the great indoors! Gather your camping equipment (tent, sleeping bags, etc.) and settle in for the coziest evening ever. Short a tent or two? Make like The Holiday and set your imagination to work with pillows, blankets, and cushions from around the house. And remember: an indoor camping experience isn’t complete without the movies, games, and snacks.

Make It All About the Bubbly

Cheering to the New Year with something fun and fizzy in your glass? My kind of party. Make it a midnight toast to remember by setting up a DIY champagne bar or try one of these champagne-forward cocktails. All that’s really left is to make your celebration’s décor as glitzy and glam as your drinks.

Host a Desserts-Only Feast

This is a great party option if you want to start the celebrations a little later on in the evening. Set out a buffet of all the best treats and ask guests to contribute their favorites to the spread. Nothing like a strategic sugar rush to keep you up until midnight. Here’s how to create a cookie charcuterie board for a crowd.

Indulge in a Midnight Brunch

While we’re all for a New Year’s Day brunch, there’s nothing stopping you from enjoying your favorite breakfast foods the night before as well. Celebrate with carbs galore—I’m talking waffles, pancakes, a bagel bar, sweet baked treats—and your favorite fruity cocktails. Your party will still feel elevated while being wonderfully cozy, laidback, and casual. No fuss necessary.

Throw a Fondue Party

Retro in all the right ways. Fondue is easy to prepare and a great way to wrap dinner and dessert all into one. Cheese and chocolate is the best combo my taste buds know, and by setting out a variety of bites for dipping, you’ll ensure everyone’s satisfied.

Marathon All the Best Movies of the Year

Because I’m normally in bed by 9 p.m. (hey, all the cool kids are doing it), I usually only make it through one post-dinner movie before I’m out cold. But because our bedtimes get extended on New Year’s Eve, you have plenty of time to make it through a million (okay, maybe three or four) movies before the clock strikes midnight. Round up a list of all the year’s best movies and start your binge-watching.

Try a Wine Tasting With Friends

Sipping on new wines is enough of a reason to have a party, but it’s also a fun way to whet your palate (haha!) for the year to come. Put together a cheese board, supply a few bottles, and ask your guests to bring one or two wines that they’ve been dying to try. Compare notes or just sip and party away. New year, meet your new go-to glass.

Celebrate Cuisines From Around the World

This is one of my favorite takes on the traditional potluck party. Have all your guests sign up for a cuisine they want to showcase and celebrate on the evening’s menu. You’ll learn more about other cultures and get to sample an array of foods and dishes you might not otherwise have. Check “expanding your horizons” off your resolutions list.

Karaoke Your Heart Out

Not a singer? Doesn’t matter. Belting out your favorite songs from the past twelve months will make anyone sentimental about 2023 and is bound to be a good time. You can even host a mini awards ceremony at the end for Best Voice, Most Heart, Greatest Impersonation, and so on.

Set and Share Your Intentions with Friends

While intention-setting can be a solitary activity, it can also feel supportive and motivating to share your goals with friends. In a journal, reflect on what you want to bring into your life in 2024. If people feel comfortable, share and speak to what you each wrote down. After all, sharing our dreams is a key part of making them happen.

Let Everyone Play Bartender for the Night

Looking for a new signature drink in 2024? Sign up for an online mixology class with your pals and gather everything you’ll need to create your own professionally-made cocktails. I wouldn’t mind toasting the new year with an expertly-crafted drink.

Hang Out By the Fire

Tempted to take things outside? Even if it’s chilly where you live, gathering around the fire is a great way to keep warm and cozy up with your closest friends. Be sure to have plenty of blankets on hand and brew up a pot of mulled cider or wine. Don’t

The post Staying In for New Year’s Eve? Here Are 20 Ideas for At-Home Fun appeared first on Camille Styles.

The holiday season always flies by, and squeezing in all the memory-making moments I envision for the holidays takes an intentional approach. One thing I always prioritize? Hosting a cozy night at home with our closest friends around the table. Sharing good food and great conversation during this season forges deep connections, and I promise—it doesn’t need to be stressful or blow your holiday budget.

Here’s my solution when you want to get friends together but are short on time: make a few of my favorite “lazy-fancy” appetizers, set up a self-serve bubbly station, and you’ve got the most festive night ever—no stress required. To show you how it’s done, I partnered up with my friends at Target to share my three favorite appetizers for simplified hosting. Every dish was made with Good & Gather ingredients I stocked up on from a single Target run. (Along with a few other “essentials” I had to have—IYKYK.) Plus, scroll on for a festive table that I set with a few of my favorite Target holiday season finds.

2-Tier Wood & Metal Serving Stand

$32.99 at Target

Oversized Carved Wood Tray

$39.99 at Target

4pk Cotton Paisley Napkins

$12 at Target

Citrus & Olive Snacking Wreath

First up is one of the prettiest appetizer spreads your friends have ever seen—and it happens to double as the simplest, most delicious grazing board for greeting them when they walk in the door.

This visually stunning appetizer is surprisingly easy to assemble:

• Start with a variety of fresh citrus fruits from Target – think oranges, mandarins, and grapefruits, cut into slices or quarters.
• Arrange these in a circular wreath pattern on a large round serving platter. Nestle in Good & Gather Olives, salted almonds, and slices of Manchego cheese.
• The final flourish? A few sprigs of evergreen and rosemary for a festive touch. This wreath isn’t just an appetizer, it’s a centerpiece.

Stock up on these:

Italian Country Style Pitted Olive Mix

$4.19 at Target

Lightly Salted Roasted Almonds

$6.99 at Target

Signature Manchego Cheese

$8.89 at Target

Navel Oranges

$6.29 at Target

Everything Bagel & Smoked Salmon Board

One thing I learned from my years working in catering? Everyone loves a smoked salmon and bagel situation, especially around the holidays. Transform this classic pairing into a stunning appetizer with the simplest Everything Bagel & Smoked Salmon Board—here’s how it comes together:

• Start with a high-quality smoked salmon, thinly-sliced.
• Arrange the salmon on a pretty platter with all the accoutrements: capers, fresh herbs, thinly-sliced radishes, and most-importantly: the most delicious Good & Gather Everything Seasoning Dip, and Everything Flatbread Crackers.
• You can either let guests build their own, or you can fancy it up and create “hors d’oevres” by layering a small amount of each ingredient on a cracker and serving on a tiered platter. Either way, this board is a feast for the eyes and the tastebuds.

Stock up on these:

Everything Seasoning Dip with Greek Yogurt

$4.79 at Target

Everything Crackers

$2.99 at Target

Non-Pareil Capers

$1.99 at Target

Wood-Fired Spinach and Olive Flatbread

Repeat after me: you do not have to reinvent the wheel with every appetizer! For a snacks spread, I almost always choose one store-bought item that I can “dress up” with a little food styling. This Wood-Fired Spinach & Olive Flatbread from Good & Gather is found in the freezer section and is already so delicious, it only takes a couple finishing touches to make it feel party-worthy.

• Simply heat the flatbread as directed so it gets really crispy on the bottom.
• Slice into cute little triangles that guests can easily grab while theyr’e mingling.
• Add freshness with a handful of arugula and a drizzle of reduced balsamic.

Set it out on this beautiful wood serving board and let guests help themselves. (Pro tip: you might want to get a few of these flatbreads—they always go fast!)

Stock up on these:

Wood-Fired Spinach Feta Olive and Arugula Frozen Flatbread Pizza

$6.99 at Target

11″x16″ Wood Cutting & Serve Board Brown

$19.99 at Target

Toast the season

For holiday hosting, I’m a big fan of simple and festive punch recipes that you can mix up before guests arrive and then let them help themselves. This is one of my go-to’s since it’s ridiculously simple and guests always ask me for the recipe. You can double and triple it for a crowd, and even make a mocktail version by swapping the champagne for sparkling water.

• In a pitcher or punch bowl, add 1 part cranberry juice to 2 parts prosecco. Add ice and stir well.
• Garnish with lemon slices and pomegranate seeds.
• Serve with sparkling water or more prosecco so guests can top their drinks off with more bubbles.

A simple but festive table

Throughout most of the year, I embrace the natural look of our wood dining table, but for a party, I always dress it up with a simple white linen tablecloth. Don’t stress about getting every last wrinkle out—the beauty of linen is that it’s casually rumpled. I love the organic, woodsy look of this faux evergreen garland from Hearth & Hand—and one of my favorite ways to use a garland is as a “runner” down the center of the table! It’s a simple way to add festivity without blocking the flow of conversation.

Then, I was ready to pop in the twinkling candlelight that makes every dinner party setup feel special. I think that candlelight is the quickest, most affordable way to give any gathering a magical glow, and I’m obsessed with these matte gold taper holders this year. When adding tall, sculptural elements like candlesticks to the table, I like to keep things a bit asymmetrical—and for added twinkle, feel free to tuck a few votives in among the greenery.

Ribbed Glass Carafe

$15 at Target

Set of 3 Aluminum Taper Holders Gold

$25 at Target

Stoneware Serving Platter Snowfall White

$25 at Target

You can shop the entire look on my Target storefront, where you’ll find all of my favorite Target buys for every space.

This blog post is sponsored by Target and contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us continue providing helpful content.

The post 3 Holiday Appetizers for Hosting a Simple (and Festive!) Gathering appeared first on Camille Styles.

It always reminds me how much I love hosting intimate dinner parties at home. Cozy nights with our closest friends around the table is my happy place, and sharing food and great conversation during this season forges deep connections.

It’s no secret that I always love the chance to set a simple Christmas dinner table with place cards, greenery, and candlelight, so I thought it would be fun to share with you guys exactly how I’m setting the table this year. Handmade ceramic dishes and recycled glassware from Casa Zuma are most definitely making an appearance, as is a stunning evergreen garland that takes center stage.

First, watch the video below to see how I decked the halls this year—then scroll on for my tips on keeping it simple but special—so you can enjoy the party as much as your guests.

Hacienda Dining Chair

$895 at Casa Zuma

Casa Zuma Holiday Wreath

$99-239 at Casa Zuma

The Scandi inspiration

As I shared in our Holiday Decor tour earlier this week, I’ve got evergreen branches, twinkling fairy lights, birch bark candles, kraft paper gifts, and bowls of pine cones on my mind. It all came together for a Scandinavian woodland vibe, especially against a minimalist backdrop of neutrals. Lush textiles and twinkling candlelight made the table feel like it was its own little cozy world, and my goal was to capture that warm sense of hygge throughout the space.

The perfect linen tablecloth

Throughout most of the year, I embrace the natural look of our unfinished teak dining table. But for a dinner party, I always dress it up with our casual linen table throw that doesn’t fully cover the table—I love to let the beauty of the natural wood show a bit. Don’t stress about getting every last wrinkle out—the beauty of linen is that it’s casually rumpled. This simple white palette adds to the Scandinavian feel, especially when topped with our natural evergreen runner that’s low enough to not get in the way of dinnertime conversation.

Linen Table Throw

$80 at Casa Zuma

Sabre Teak Flatware

$76 at Casa Zuma

A lush, evergreen runner

My friend Elle Worsham owns Gracious Garlands, and her team creates the most beautiful evergreen garlands to hang on the mantel or lay simply down the center of the table. This one is super lush and textured, acting as a sort of “runner,” that doesn’t block conversation the way that a taller floral centerpiece would. Plus, it lasts for weeks, which means that I get to enjoy it throughout the entire holiday season (not just on party night!)

It also coordinates so beautifully with our Casa Zuma Holiday Wreaths hung above the mantel and on the window near the table. Handcrafted from a California-inspired mix of Fraser Fir, Leyland Cypress, Gold Tipped Cedar, and Seeded Eucalyptus, it brings so much warmth and natural beauty to the space.

Maxence Shirt

$145 at Sezane

Georgio Trousers

$175 at Sezane

Cast a warm glow

Once I’d laid the foundation with my white linen tablecloth and evergreen runner, I was ready to pop in the twinkling candlelight that makes every dinner party setup feel special. Out of all my holiday table setting tips, candlelight is the quickest, most affordable way to give any gathering a magical glow.

When adding tall, sculptural elements like candlesticks to the table, I like to keep things a bit asymmetrical—and for added twinkle, feel free to tuck a few votives in among the greenery.

Recycled Glass Petite Goblets, Set of 4

$78 at Casa Zuma

Unscented Taper Candles

$7 at Target

Raise a glass

I set this Christmas table with our Playa Dinnerware from Casa Zuma. I love that these feel elevated for a dinner party, but they’re also rustic and durable enough to use every night for our casual weeknight dinners. I paired them with our new Recycled Glass Goblets, which add a beautifully wabi-sabi touch that elevates whatever you’re drinking. Made by artisans in Guatemala of locally-sourced recycled glass, these glasses are incredibly durable, and lend a relaxed, organic vibe to the table. Sized just right for water, wine, or cocktails, I use them for literally every dinner party I host.

Oversized Linen Napkin, Set of 2

$40 at Casa Zuma

Deckled Edge Placards

$3.99

Shop Now

A place for everyone

Taking a few minutes to handwrite simple place cards is one of those simple touches that really elevates a table and makes it feel special occasion-worthy. I used simple rectangles of recycled paper, handwrote each guest’s name, and then tucked in a sprig of cedar and a dried orange slice. Don’t worry about perfect penmanship—the imperfect nature of these cards is what makes them feel personal and special.

The post Raise a Glass—My Scandi-Inspired Holiday Party Table is Here appeared first on Camille Styles.

How to Create a Thanksgiving Checklist That Works for You

Make a Plan

I’ve learned that the more detailed my plan is on the front end, the more I can kick back and relax on the day of. Start with a list of how many people are attending. I send an email to the entire group and get specific on arrival and mealtimes with guests so everyone knows what to expect. This is also a great way to find out if there are any dietary restrictions and get some volunteers to pitch in on the menu.

Make it a Potluck

I can’t imagine hosting our big family gathering without lots of people pitching in on the menu. I’ve found that everyone loves having the chance to contribute their own traditions to the table. My dad always makes the stuffing, my mother-in-law brings her broccoli casserole and gravy, and my mom is on pie duty. Anyone who doesn’t cook is bringing wine to contribute. It takes a village, and asking for help is key to keeping my Thanksgiving Day manageable and the overwhelm at bay.

Don’t Feel Like Every “Thanksgiving Food” Has to Be Included

Especially if you’re shouldering the bulk of the cooking yourself, my biggest piece of advice is to keep the menu relatively limited. People do not need both mashed potatoes and potatoes au gratin, I promise. Just remember, every additional dish equals more groceries, more prep, and more clean-up. Take an honest look at the menu and ask yourself if you’re trying to do too much. If so, figure out what item will be missed the least, then ditch it from your menu.

Keep Drinks Simple

In years passed, I’ve had a slow cooker full of cider that I’ve dressed up with spices along with a bottle of bourbon on the side for guests who want to spike theirs. In other years, I’ve simply opened a bottle of something sparkling and served guests as they arrived. On the dinner table, set a juicy red wine, a crisp white, and a big carafe of water. Give everyone one wine glass and one water glass and let them fill and refill themselves. Done and done.

Hit Up the Rental Company

My first real job was in catering, and I quickly learned that renting glassware and silverware is kind of the most awesome thing ever. For one thing, if you’re hosting a big group, who has 20 forks and knives lying around? But the real key to this one is in the clean-up. Just imagine the feeling at the end of the night of loading all those dirty wine glasses into a crate and putting them in your car to drop off the next morning. Bliss!

Three Weeks Before Thanksgiving

Plan the menu. It all starts with a smart menu that isn’t so ambitious it turns you into a crazy person. Strategic menu planning is the key to conveying the stress-free vibe that we all want to feel on Thanksgiving. Advance planning also gives you the chance to consider how your various menu items will taste and look together, which goes a long way towards the enjoyment of the overall meal. A few things to think about:

• Variety: Thanksgiving is notorious for being monochromatic—the mashed potatoes, stuffing, rolls, and turkey can turn an entire plate an unappealing shade of cream. So, I always throw in a beautiful salad bursting with fall veggies, and this year I’m adorning my cornbread “stuffing” with jewel-toned toppings. Similarly, try not to repeat the same ingredients in multiple dishes. (If your app is bacon-wrapped figs, skip the bacon in the Brussels.)
• Dietary Restrictions: If your family and friend group is like mine, there are certainly going to be some gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian eaters around the table. Thanksgiving can be tricky, since it often relies on a classic menu of recipes that aren’t by nature super accommodating. My suggestion is to make enough of the classics to keep the traditionalists happy, but make sure there’s at least a main, a veggie, and a starch that works for everyone around the table.
• Consider your timing: Ever had one of those Thanksgiving moments when it’s 30 minutes before mealtime, and suddenly everything needs to be in the oven to finish cooking at the same time? Me too. I’ve learned to get very strategic at the beginning of my planning to make sure prep can be paced out. For example, this year’s cornbread stuffing is mostly made on the stovetop, and can hang out at room temp for awhile before digging in.

Two Weeks Before Thanksgiving

Order your turkey. Plan to buy one pound per person (or you could go up to 1 1/2 pounds per person if you want leftovers.) Get our tips on how to make the ultimate Thanksgiving turkey.

Make a shopping list. A solid shopping list is an absolute necessity for this occasion. Be sure to check the staple ingredients that you might assume you always have enough of. One Thanksgiving, I randomly ran out of salt in the middle of cooking!

Buy your shelf-stable groceries. Don’t make the mistake of waiting until the day before Thanksgiving to buy cranberries, canned pumpkin, or any of the other shelf-stable necessities that could make or break the meal. In fact, I like to stock up on everything except fresh produce, dairy, and meat a couple weeks in advance so I can rest easy.

Two Days Before Thanksgiving

Hit the store for your perishables. This is a great time to double-check your grocery list to ensure you’re not forgetting anything important. In addition to your fresh produce, herbs, turkey, and refrigerated items, now’s the time to grab wine, sparkling water, flowers, extra trash bags, ice, and lots of foil for wrapping up leftovers.

The Day Before Thanksgiving

Brine your turkey and store it in the fridge.

Make the chutney, then store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Make the vinaigrette, and store in a mason jar in the fridge.

Pre-cut your squash, red onion, and kale for the salad. Store in gallon-sized Ziplock bags in the fridge.

Set the table, arrange flowers, and place serving pieces where they’ll go on the buffet.

Prep the guest bathroom, making sure the trash is empty, the soap is full, hand towels and toilet paper are well-stocked, and there’s a vase of flowers or a great-smelling candle next to the sink.

Thanksgiving Morning

Preheat the oven to 375 F.

Chill your white wine.

Massage the kale for your salad.

Three Hours Before

Prep the turkey, and get it in the oven.

Make your cornbread stuffing. Keep it covered on the counter until it’s almost time to eat.

Two Hours Before

Make your mashed potatoes. They can hang out on the stovetop with a lid on. 15 minutes before serving, reheat over low.

Roast the veggies for your salad.

Pop open a good bottle of sparkling wine to sip while you finish cooking—it’s a holiday!

Fill a pitcher with filtered water and lemon slices, then place in the fridge to get really cold.

One Hour Before

Arrange your charcuterie board and set it out. It’ll be ready and waiting for any early arrivals, and the cheese tastes better when it has come to room temperature.

Pop red wine in the fridge to slightly chill.

Make Brussels sprouts. Cover them and set out on the stove until it’s time to eat.

Check the turkey for doneness. When it registers 165 degrees F, cover with foil and allow to rest until ready to carve. (It’ll come up 10 more degrees before you carve it.)

15 Minutes Before

If you have early-arriving guests, don’t hesitate to give them simple tasks like opening wine and slicing lemons for water. Putting them to work will actually put everyone at ease.

Rewarm mashed potatoes on the stove.

Pop the cornbread stuffing in the oven to rewarm.

Toss together all the ingredients in your salad and set it on the buffet.

Carve the turkey, place everything in its designated spot on the buffet, call your guests to help themselves, and then kick back and enjoy the feast.

The post The Ultimate Thanksgiving Checklist for a Stress-Free Feast appeared first on Camille Styles.

My usual approach to family dinners is laid-back and casual. Let’s be clear—I’m not usually designing elaborate tablescapes—my focus is really on making the food delicious and spending quality time our families. But—Thanksgiving is different! This is a day when I embrace the chance to go all out and make the table feel really special. I have so much fun planning it, and then when our family shows up and sees this really special table, it’s like a mental cue that says—today is a festive day.

Watch me set the table start-to-finish in the video below, then scroll on for all the details…

In today’s post, I’m sharing my “practice round” for our real family Thanksgiving this year. I’m going with warm, natural wabi sabi vibes, and I’m using all dishes from Casa Zuma and incorporating some fall produce from the grocery store and olive branches from my backyard. And of course I’ll include links where you can find everything below. So let’s go set the Thanksgiving table!

Sharing Platter

$94

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Mango Wood Serving Spoons, Set of 2

$24

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Get inspired

I approach setting the table as a creative project and the table is my blank canvas. I always start by creating an inspiration board on Pinterest so I can hone in on my color palette and what materials I want to use. Then I shop my own house for vases, candles, and linens that I already own that fit the vibe of what I want to create.

The fun part is figuring out how to style everything in a way that feels fresh and different from last year. I don’t usually get super theme-y – I’m not a big fan of having things I only get out once a year. If I’m going to buy something new, I’m looking for things with a timeless quality that I can mix and match with everything I already own.

Playa Pasta Bowl

$42

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Sabre Teak Flatware

$76

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Keep it stress-free

My top priority with any Thanksgiving tablescape is that it’s not going to stress me out. That’s why my number one tip is to set the table completely the night before—on Thanksgiving, there’s already so much to do just to get all the food on the table, I want my table to be already set and ready to go. 

Cashmere Fisherman Sweater

$425

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Sorena Skirt

$140

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Color palette

I love a neutral color palette any time of year, so at Thanksgiving I lean hard into all the organic earth tones. I love all of those muted autumn colors, but I also want my Thanksgiving table to feel special, so I rely on lots of texture to warm things up. From the table linens to the woven serving pieces, I incorporate so much texture so my table feels warm and layered.

Hacienda Dining Chair

$895

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Mango Wood Serving Platter

$100

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Laid-back linens

I am not one for perfectly starched linen tablecloths. My vibe is almost always a casual linen table runner or linen table throw that lets the beauty of our teak wood table show through. Today I’m using our white table throw from Casa Zuma and it feels really fresh, like the perfect palette to everything we’re going to layer on top of it.

Also hot tip: I almost never iron my tablecloths anymore. I love my wrinkle release spray, and give the entire linen tablecloth or runner a spritz before I shake it out or throw it in the dryer. The result is that perfectly rumpled (but not too wrinkled) look that I love.

Linen Table Throw

$80

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Celebrate fall’s bounty

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to let food double as decor. Often I’ll set out a cheeseboard on the center of the table so its like a centerpiece and appetizers in one. This year, I kept it really simple and got inspired by the idea of a modern cornucopia, but instead I used my mango wood serving platter, and just filled it up with the prettiest fall fruits and veggies.

El Matador Vase

$98

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Bring the outdoors in

Instead of buying flowers, I headed into the backyard and pruned a few branches from our olive tree, then laid them simply down the middle of the table. The effect is so pretty—almost like a natural runner.

Playa Salad Plate

$42

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Playa Dinner Plate

$48

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Warm & rustic dinnerware

If you know me, you know that I am a DISHES GIRL – beautiful stoneware and pottery dinnerware is one of my passions in life, and that love was one of the main things that inspired me to start Casa Zuma. All the pieces in our collection are in a neutral color palette, so that I can mix and match all of the pieces and continually come up with a fresh look. 

Today I’m using plates from our Playa dinnerware collection, recycled glass goblets, and our teak wood flatware sets. I gravitate towards pieces that are handmade and rustic and not too perfect. These are the things that really give a table its character and make it feel warm and welcoming. 

Spark conversation

I love to tuck simple conversation starters under each plate, to spark lively discussion throughout the meal. Creating connection and meaningful conversation is what it’s all about.

Recycled Glass Petite Goblets, Set of 4

$78

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Pour a glass 

I love using a mix of our recycled stemless wine glasses, tumblers, and goblets for a table that’s not too perfect. And I love recycled glassware for a few reasons:

• It’s a sustainable option (it removes millions of pounds of glass waste from landfills)
• It’s also beautiful and it’s more durable because it has this thicker wall – I always put these in the dishwasher.
• And aesthetically, I just love the more rustic and casual look that recycled wine glasses and goblets bring to the Thanksgiving table.

Sabre Dessert Server

$40

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Playa Bread Plate

$34

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Add sparkle with candlelight

I always say that flickering candlelight is the easiest way to make an impact on the table. You could literally let a grouping of simple pillar candles be your entire centerpiece, and it would still feel special.

I have a mix of ceramic and wood candlesticks that I’ve been collecting for years, and I like to mix and match them together on the table. Some of them are special marble and stoneware pieces I’ve collected through the years, while others are from Target—the high-low mix totally works.

***

And that’s my 2023 Thanksgiving table! I hope that you feel inspired to use what you have, infuse it with a little creativity, and take your cue from nature and the beauty of the fall season. With your own unique style as your guide, you can create a Thanksgiving table that’s all your own and that brings more joy to your holiday this year.

And don’t forget to hop over to the Youtube episode to watch me set the table start-to-finish—I’ve been loving creating these videos and hope that you’ll subscribe to our channel!

The post Pull Up a Chair—My Warm & Natural 2023 Thanksgiving Table is Here appeared first on Camille Styles.

To celebrate this time of changing colors and cozier vibes, I hosted a fall dinner party with a few brands that share my love for all things natural: Woven, Casa Zuma, SriMu, Martha Stoumen Wines, and Sweet Laurel. Read on for all the details (including the most delish sweet potato gnocchi recipe) and stay tuned for an exciting giveaway we’ll be launching together soon – details to come via email!

Intentional gatherings

One of my goals for the season is to bring intention to the way I bring people together, the products I surround myself with, and the brands I choose to bring into my home. Not only am I looking for a sense of alignment in style and values—I also simply want to buy fewer, better things.

One way we can be more intentional with our gatherings is by taking time to consider our purpose. When our goal is to cultivate community and connection, there’s less pressure to make everything perfect, and we can focus on creating an environment that puts people at ease and encourages meaningful conversation among guests (I’m all for skipping the small talk!) So, as we head into the holiday season, it’s the perfect time to focus on hosting in a way that makes guests feel connected and uplifted.

Casa Zuma x Woven Campo Director’s Chair

$325

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An Autumn Apéro

We kicked things off with a golden hour apéro in my backyard. I created the ultimate plant-based cheeseboard featuring SriMu Artisanal Not Cheese (if you haven’t tried it, prepare to swoon—it satisfies every cheese craving without any dairy in site.)

I paired our cheeseboard with the most beautiful bottle of Venturi Carignan from Martha Stoumen, a Northern Cali natural winemaker that I adore both for their delicious wines and their unique approach to winemaking. I especially love the brand’s recommendation for when to drink this wine:

The clock stands still, your phone is off for the evening, and you’re lavishing in time outside of time.

A Plant-Based Cheeseboard

In tune with our celebration of autumn’s abundance, it felt fitting to create a plant-based cheeseboard featuring SriMu’s beautiful NOT cheeses. The brand’s vision is to nourish your body, honor animals, and transform Mother Earth, and each of the varieties are sooo delicious. Here’s how my board came together:

1. Start With A Standout Cheese That Makes The Board Feel Special

For this board, I chose a combination of cheeses for a variety of flavor and texture: SriMu Gold Alchemy (which is inspired by smoked gouda), and SriMu Dolce Vita (inspired by gorgonzola.)

2. Use A Board That’s Big Enough To Make It Abundant

Our Casa Zuma Large Vintage Wood Board is a personal favorite when constructing a large cheese board. It creates a stunning scene on your table and can hold an abundance of ingredients.

3. Include Something Sweet And Something Savory

The addition of fruit like pears, figs, and grapes is one way I love to make a board feel seasonal. To complement the cheeses, a jam or honey is also a sweet addition to any board. As for the savory element, salted nuts, olives, and marinated artichokes can help fill in the gaps and make your cheese board feel abundant.

4. Elevate the Aesthetic With Herbs

Adding edible flowers or fresh herbs is a unique touch to any cheese board. Not only do these toppings add woodsy flavor and scent, they also elevate the visual composition of the board.

6. Offer Options for Bread and Crackers

I usually do sliced, toasted baguettes and a gluten-free seeded cracker to give people options. However, feel free to lay out whatever bread variety or crackers you desire to pull your board together and give people a vessel for their cheeses.

The Harvest Table

As most of you know, we launched our Casa Zuma x Woven collection of furniture last week, and our harvest gathering was the perfect opportunity to celebrate the collaboration between our brands—quite literally, since we gathered around the Kelmscott Farmhouse Dining Table and sat in the Hacienda Dining Chairs, both favorite pieces from the collection.

Our partnership with Woven has been a dream collaboration for me—it’s a brand whose products I love and have in my home, and we couldn’t be more aligned in our vision for what home should be. As they say so beautifully on their site, “Home is somewhere between a place and a feeling. Woven exists for our journeys towards home—crafting spaces that feel warm, natural, and uniquely you.”

Casa Zuma x Woven Hacienda Dining Chair

$895

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Casa Zuma x Woven Kelmscott Farmhouse Dining Table

$2,998

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Casa Zuma Terra Cotta Urn Vessel

$72

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The coziest fall dinner recipe

For dinner, I made this Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Wild Mushrooms, Brown Butter, and Sage.  It really doesn’t get cozier than this for a simple weeknight at home or a special occasion with friends. In the post, I share how to make this recipe using store-bought sweet potato gnocchi—and I’m also sharing how to make gnocchi from scratch so you can choose your own adventure based on how much time you have.

Our time around the table was the perfect way to usher in this seasonal shift. Fall is a season of gratitude and abundance, and these small gathering rituals feel especially nourishing right now.

Simple, nourishing sweets

‘Tis the season for pies, and no one does wholesome desserts with feel-good ingredients quite like my friends at Sweet Laurel Bakery (don’t miss our interview with Laurel here.) For our gathering, we served Apple Crumb Pie and Pecan Pie, and none of us could choose a favorite. One thing I’ve noticed when I eat Sweet Laurel’s treats is I never feel that sugar hangover afterwards. I actually feel good, thanks to their clean ingredients that are completely gluten-free, vegan, and paleo. Lucky for me, they ship nationwide.

The post A Harvest Gathering to Celebrate Fall’s Abundance appeared first on Camille Styles.

Our schedules are packed and it can seem like there’s not enough time for the essentials, much less a little socializing with our favorite people. It’s a reality for everyone, but I’ve found that instead of seeking balance throughout it all, I’m instead leaning into my priorities. Some weeks, that may look like getting to inbox zero and checking off my to-dos in advance. Others, I might be hitting my workouts daily and meal prepping all the healthy dishes.

But lately, after a few months of hanging out on DND, I’m ready to embrace the extroverted side of myself who’s counting down to her next girls’ night. Who’s with me?

Featured image from our interview with Sophie Collins by Christie Graham.

15 Girls’ Night Ideas That Celebrate Female Friendship

If you’re reading this, it’s likely that you also have an unbridled love of hosting. We’ve all caught the bug—and in our pursuit of living the Barefoot Contessa lifestyle, it’s only natural that we’d want to fill our homes with our best girlfriends. And while sure, wine nights are all well and good, it also pays to get a little creative and think outside the box.

For girls’ night ideas that’ll surprise, delight, and strengthen the bond with your besties, read on. Ahead, we’re sharing the best ways to spend a weekend evening celebrating all the joy your friendship brings.

1. Host a Book Club

With #BookTok transforming all of us into fantasy-obsessed bibliophiles, it’s likely that you and your girlfriends are plowing through the same reads. Whether it’s ACOTAR, Colleen Hoover, or any of Kirstin Hannah’s oeuvre, you need mutual besties to gush over these books with. Pick a book, prep some questions, and get ready to dive deep. It’s fun to also pull up some hot takes on TikTok to add fuel to your literary fire.

2. Crafting Night

Crafts are the best, but rarely do we make time to pour into making for the sake of fun. You can approach this in one of two ways. The first option is to all make the same craft—pull up a friendship bracelet, sweet ornaments for the holidays, or something festive for Halloween. (Pinterest, of course, is our go-to source of inspiration.) Alternatively, encourage everyone to bring their own project they’re currently working on or want to start. That can look like scrapbooking, knitting, coloring—anything! Nothing beats getting your creative juices flowing, together.

3. Make Vision Boards

Hands down, one of our favorite activities. Vision boards are a creative and inspiring way to manifest your dream life. It can be a powerful tool to take your life from Point A to Point B. And while doing it on your own can be wildly therapeutic, the energy of vision boarding with a group of your closest friends is unmatched. Have everyone bring poster paper and magazines to cut from, or do it digitally on your computers with Pinterest and Canva at the ready. For a comprehensive guide to vision boarding, consult our step-by-step post. (Psst… snacks and your favorite playlists are highly encouraged additions.)

4. Do a Yoga Class

If you’re all craving a collective release at the end of the week, aim for a more low-key girls’ night that’s oriented toward relaxation. I love the idea of hiring a private yoga instructor to lead your group through a flow. Or, see if there are any certified yogis in your group who’d like to lead! You can let this tee up a chill spa night, complete with smoothies, face masks, nourishing salads, and all the high vibes.

5. Desserts-Only Party

It’s Saturday night and all you want to do is satisfy your sweet tooth—with your girlfriends, of course. Have everyone sign up for a treat they’ll be in charge of baking and bringing to the party. Chocolate, vanilla, fruit-laced delights—everything’s fair game. Maybe pair with a marathon of The Great British Bake Off to send the theme home?

6. DIY Flower Arrangements

This is a great low-budget girls’ night idea that’ll send everyone home with something beautiful. Buy affordable vases from Michael’s or The Dollar Store and pick up blooms from Trader Joe’s. Set everyone up along a long table so they can pick and choose their favorite stems and arrange their custom bouquet. During the holiday season, give this girls’ night idea a festive spin and make wreaths instead. It’s the perfect way to gather with your friends during the Christmas season.

7. Closet Swap

If you’re overdue for a closet clean out or new clothes aren’t in your budget, arrange a clothing swap with friends. A week or so before the party, everyone can sort through their closets and pile up what they want to bring. At the party, arrange racks and displays so everyone can shop each other’s clothes. It’s a fun, sustainable way to Marie Kondo your space and go home with a few new favorites in tow.

8. Old-School Sleepover

There’s nothing wrong with a classic slumber party—and honestly, this might be the perfect girls’ night of all. It’s nostalgic, cozy, and a low-effort way to gather with your friends (exactly what we need right now). Keep it casual and stream movies in the living room, piling up on the couch with a mountain of blankets like we did as teenagers. A chick flick is non-negotiable and popcorn is a must. Sometimes, it’s the simplest girls’ night ideas that help us form the tightest bonds.

9. Cookbook Club

You love to cook, and you love to hang out with your friends—cookbook club is a no-brainer. Each month, select a new cookbook that you and your friends will each make a recipe from. On the night of that month’s meeting, everyone will gather for a family-style party where they can show off their dishes and delight in the deliciousness together. For inspiration on cookbooks to get started with, see Camille’s list of favorites.

10. Cheese Tasting

A tasting party is the perfect way to introduce yourself to new foods and flavors, as well as get into heated debates over which cheese is superior. I love centering a tasting night around cheese because 1) it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser and 2) there are endless varieties to try. (Just don’t tell your dairy-free friends.) If you’d like, you can pair the cheeses with wine tastings to amp up this girls’ night all the more.

11. Game Night

Game night is always a winner. Because if you’re anything like us, you and your friends all have a competitive side waiting to come out. We compiled all of our favorite games into one list, so you don’t have to look too far for inspiration. I also love games that help you learn more about yourself and your friends. Cards Against Humanity is always a hit and my friends and I have recently become obsessed with Girl Code—it’s a fun way to skip the small talk and get straight to the hilarious deets.

12. Bring a Board Party

It’s no secret: food tastes better on a board. Cheese boards, charcuterie boards, cookie and candy boards, pizza boards—anything goes. Have everyone bring their favorite board and graze together. Pair with your favorite bottle of wine or non-alcoholic sipper and enjoy the snacks for dinner vibe.

13. Backyard Glamping

Camping, made luxurious. Crowdsource your group for tents, sleeping bags, and all the camping equipment you need for a night under the stars. Make it glamorous with an outdoor movie screening on a projector, air mattresses to sleep on, and plenty of your favorite faux fur blankets. Another way to elevate this girls’ night? Wake up to pancakes, fresh granola, and hot coffee.

14. Potluck Party

This one is simple and for when all you really want is to gather with good friends and good food. You can center the meal around a theme (a culture, country, or era—I do love mid-century cooking) or simply have everyone bring the dish they’re famous for. Food is such a wonderful way to connect with those you love and spark interesting conversations that might have otherwise gone unspoken. Full bellies, full hearts. As far as girls’ night ideas go, this one’s pretty perfect.

15. Breakfast Night (In Your PJs)

My happy place is at the breakfast table in my comfiest pajamas. And because that perfect scenario can take place any time of day, I encourage you to make it the theme of your next girls’ night. Pjs, slippers, and robes are the dress code and have everyone bring and prepare components of an all-out morning meal. Mimosas, muffins, croissants, bacon, eggs, and the like. I hope I never see the day when breakfast for dinner gets old.

The post Girls’ Night Is Back—15 Ideas to Inspire Your Weekend Plans appeared first on Camille Styles.

That sort of humble and curious collaboration was on display last month, when Heidi Baker, founder of sustainable womenswear brand, OZMA, gathered friends and family for an al fresco backyard celebration at her Los Angeles home. The entire evening was grounded in Baker’s organic, wabi sabi ethos, with the surrounding oasis serving as a haven for the like-minded community of creatives from near and far.

And while many of us host and gather simply for the joy of sharing good company, conversation, and food, there was also a through-line of intention woven into the evening Heidi crafted. Just as her designs balance refinement with an understated sort of elegance, all components of the gathering drew upon a new understanding of luxury that’s steeped in simplicity and imperfection.

Heidi Baker on the Art of Gathering

As we spoke with Heidi Baker about where the creative stimulus for her brand and lifestyle comes from, it’s evident that she lives every day open to the learnings and guidance all around her. From her favorite cookbooks to “recipes” she’s garnered from friends over the years, every day, Heidi puts herself in the path of inspiration—ready and willing to learn from what comes.

Ahead, our conversation dives into the happenstance details that connected Heidi and her partner with their gorgeous home, her go-to dishes to serve for any gathering, and how she’s living each day with an effortless sort of ease that nonetheless feels special, treasured, and entirely her own.

On the menu

I was lucky enough that my friend [LA-based chef, recipe developer, and food stylist] Chloe did the cooking at this gathering for us.

Her gorgeous menu was:

• boquerones in vinegar over romesco 
• anchovies with citrus
• blistered snap peas & black salt 
• gildas
• potatoes with aoili + chives 
• chickpeas with tomatoes, basil aioli + sherry vinegar
• fried olives stuffed with herbed ricotta
• greek salad
• tomato galette 
• smoked trout dip with trout roe + chips 
• assortment of tinned fish 
• mojo dip with crudités
• ajo blanco dip with crudités

How did you learn to cook?

By doing a lot of eating and a lot of experimenting in my own kitchen. When I lived in San Francisco, I saw for the first time that cooking incredible food can be simple and fun. I had friends who were in the industry there, who I watched whip up the most incredible, but uncomplicated meals by heart. We used to have epic potluck parties, so I found recipes that weren’t too daunting and pushed myself slowly outside of my comfort zone.

The more I cooked, the more I trusted myself to only use recipes as a general guideline for a dish and let myself play around with my own ideas or substitutions. I got confident in intuitively knowing how to make great-tasting food. I’m still learning and playing and I love it. 

Florals by: Offerings

Wonder Valley Olive OIl

$36

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What informs your approach to food?

Simplicity and ease. I stick to things that require a short list of simple, whole ingredients.

How did OZMA come to be?

I started OZMA with my good friend, Mariah, in 2015. I’d worked for a few companies as a designer and I struggled to find much purpose in creating endless seasons of product for large brands. I wanted a feeling of excitement and creativity again, so I asked Mariah if she wanted to start a project with me. The idea was to create well-made clothing that traveled well and grew more beautiful with age.

She and I were both avid travelers and, aside from our vintage, we were missing the quality-driven, unique but non-precious or overly-designed pieces that we could truly live in. OZMA has evolved in style quite a bit since 2015, and soon after, Mariah went to pursue other projects and adventures. But that original inspiration still stands. OZMA is a name that we felt perfectly personified our woman: confident and free.

Tablecloths and napkins by: Madre Linen

Tell us about your home. What’s your favorite part of the space?

I live in a 1920s cottage in Eagle Rock, Los Angeles. We bought our house in late 2019, after unexpectedly needing to move out of the place we were renting. After a few months of a semi-desperate and disheartening search for a home, on a whim my partner, Dustin and I stopped by the open house on the way to the airport. We walked through the house together and in the backyard looked at each other and excitedly confessed that we thought it had potential. We put in our bid that day, me sending off our ‘please let us make a home here’ letter, just as the airplane was about to take off.

Outdoor space is really important to us, and this house is on a pretty big lot for Los Angeles. The backyard was a mess, with brick pathways that didn’t make sense, a creepy structure made of sheet metal, a tear-down garage with no door, and even a homemade concrete water feature.

Getting the backyard to be the inviting space we imagined has been our only major house project so far, and has definitely become my favorite part of our home. We were lucky to have had our friend Nicole at NKLA do the landscaping for us, and family help fix up the garage to a home studio and working storage. There’s a lot of love in the space as well.

What does a great gathering look like for you?

People I love smiling and having fun. A great gathering is about just relaxing and enjoying each other’s company. A good spread, great music, fun friends, and lots of laughs.

Wine by: Nomadica 

Walk us through a typical day for you.

I have a tiny human alarm clock, my 8-month-old son River, who wakes me up every day at 6 or 6:30 a.m. Each morning after feeding him, I take River, my coffee, and my dog Blue for a walk to our neighborhood park. For breakfast, I have a green smoothie or some yogurt with berries and granola/almonds/coconut… or some mixture of crunchy things.

I work at home often, so my getting properly dressed for the day sometimes happens at 9 a.m., sometimes at noon. I always go for comfort—99% of the time it’s OZMA and/or vintage. Right now, I’m rotating between our Juno Pant and Field Pant, plus a bodysuit or one of our raw silk t-shirts. 

Scoop Top

$158

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Juno Pant

$238

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Field Pant

$268

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Depending on whether I’m at my home studio or our studio in Frogtown and what time in the season we’re at, each work day can be super different. Last week, I worked on coordinating our winter shoot in Tofino, organizing a photoshoot happening this week in Biarritz for this coming summer, and choosing yarn for next fall’s sweaters. We’re planning our journals and events for fall at the moment now too, so I checked in on how those are moving along.

I keep my work day as short as possible so that I can spend time with River. Life is very simple and sweet at the moment with him. We play at home in the afternoons and walk Blue again at night, then make dinner as a family and go to bed very early. 

What products do you love for the table?

Ribete Mug by Perla Valtierra

Beautifully made with a unique and playful squiggle handle. Looks cute on my kitchen shelf and makes my morning coffee feel extra special.

Ribete Mug by Perla Valtierra

$44 (reg. $58)

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Duralex Picardie Glass

Classic short tumblers that are great for everything. I use mine for water, wine, and ice cream. They are super durable and stacking, which I love in particular for hosting. I can bring 10 glasses out to guests in one hand and at the end of the night they are so simple to clean up. 

Duralex Picardie Glass

$5.95

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Mismatched Vintage China

The majority of my tableware is a lifelong collection of random things gifted and thrifted. My all-time favorite dishes are the one-off pieces of china that I thrifted years ago when I lived in San Francisco. They’re now half-cracked and chipped, but I still love them the most. 

Mismatched Vintage China

$23.99

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What’s your must-have cooking tool?

My Wüsthof chef’s knife. Because it’s simply too frustrating to cook without a really good sharp knife.

Gourmet 8″ Chef’s Knife

$100

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What are your favorite cookbooks?

Jerusalem by Yotam Ottolenghi. You can almost taste the images on each page. Everything in this book has such big, beautiful flavors. 

Tender by Nigel Slater. Great for finding comfort food for colder months and organized by vegetables, which is fun if I have something specific in mind from the market or in my garden.

The Chez Panisse Menu Cookbook by Alice Waters. Her recipes feel like short lessons in cooking which I really love. But most of all, I appreciate Alice Waters’s approach to food in its emphasis on simplicity and local, quality, ingredients. 

Tell us a few things we’ll always find in your refrigerator.

Yogurt, flat-leaf parsley, lots of berries, aged Gouda, a half-empty bottle of Gamay.

What scares you about entertaining?

I’m cautious about being too busy cooking that I won’t get to actually enjoy my own party. It’s happened to me in the past where I didn’t prep ahead of time or made a complicated meal and then I ran around the whole time stressed and didn’t really enjoy my guests. So now I’m hyper aware of the possibility and make sure I avoid making that mistake again!

Your signature dishes for gatherings?

I’m not sure that I have a signature per se, as I go through phases of what I’m liking to cook, but a few of my current go-tos are:

Dandelion green salad with radicchio, parsley, shaved parm, and a dressing of EVOO + either anchovy or preserved lemon. Finished with a dash of chili flakes, pepper, and Maldon [salt[. My friend Helen made it for me once and I don’t know if I make it the same, but in my head, it’s her salad. It makes a great simple meal with just rice and grilled meat. It’s become my go-to salad for sure.

Kofta kebabs with a Mediterranean spread of tzatziki, babaganoush or hummus, muhammara, homemade flatbread with za’atar, tomato, cucumber, and herb salad—or some variation of dippable and fresh things. This takes a little bit of prep, but it’s fun to do and most of the dishes are really easy to serve at room temp or pulled out of the fridge at the last minute.

Salmon and Mushroom Donabe with rice. This I reserve for a smaller group of girlfriends usually because only so much can fit into one donabe, but it’s really tasty and feels special.

Your go-to weeknight meal to eat at home?

Broiled salmon with yuzu kosho, brown rice, and sauteed kale with mirin and soy. Other than the rice, it’s incredibly fast, and fool-proof.

What advice would you share with someone who wants to host a gathering on a budget?

Host a potluck or delegate dishes for your friends to bring! Potlucks are super fun and everyone feels involved.

The perfect dinner party playlist includes:

Something jazzy, something folky, something Brazilian.

Go-to centerpiece solution:

Cut stems and branches from my yard.

What is your no-stress party rule to live by? 

Never make a complicated meal or a first-time recipe for a dinner party.

Dream dinner guests?

All of my closest girlfriends who live far away.

Fill in the blank:

A perfect meal should: be enjoyed and never rushed.

It’s not a dinner party without: cheese.

Every cook should know how to: improvise.

The post “Cooking Incredible Food Can Be Simple and Fun”—Heidi Baker on the Art of Gathering appeared first on Camille Styles.

Each of Maman’s locations across the east coast boast interiors that nod to the rustic elegance of French décor. Brick is left exposed, the seating is humble, and mismatched—but wonderfully coordinated vintage vessels hold slices of quiche and warm, flaky croissants. Verdant, flourishing arrangements dot every surface and even take-away coffee cups are adorned with Maman’s signature floral touch. All of it is a nod to the beauty, focus on aesthetics, and emphasis on community that Elisa has brought to light.

And while other creatives aim for a distinct work-life balance, Elisa can’t help but bring her eye for interiors, love of florals, and culinary prowess home. Whether it’s a weekday evening with her husband and two young boys or a more formal Saturday night gathering, it’s with a paradoxical ease and attention to every detail that Elisa weaves together the intimate experiences taking place in her NYC loft. And she does all of it—baking, entertaining, helming a business, being a mother and wife—happy to entertain whatever comes her way.

Maman Co-founder, Elisa Marshall, on What Makes a Memorable Gathering

What informs your approach to food?

Simple, good ingredients and beauty will be my first two approaches when it comes to food. I am a strong believer that less is more when it comes to recipes and if you find top-quality, pure ingredients it can really enhance and even simplify your dish. Something as simple as beautiful roasted vegetables with fresh herbs or crudités with some homemade dips are not only delicious but can be styled beautifully too! 

Presentation and the setting to me is equally as important. Everything tastes better when served on a pretty plate is my motto and beautiful presentation leads to a tastier meal. I love thinking outside of the box when it comes to food presentation and serving items in unconventional ways. Serving dessert in assorted vintage wine glasses, or crudités in individual champagne coupes—it allows me to be more creative working with what I have at home and adds a fun wow moment for your guests.

How did Maman come to be?

Before I opened Maman, I felt that I was doing a little bit of everything, but nothing wholeheartedly. I had a 9 to 5 job in PR and marketing, wedding planning on weekends and had a side hustle catering sweets along with interior decorating—all of which were things I loved and was so passionate about. When looking for a ‘career’ in my early 20s, nothing spoke to me as I wanted a job that encompassed everything I loved.

I wanted to create a world for myself where I could combine all my passions: food, baking, coffee, interior design, branding, events, friends, and family. There was really no job like this that I could find, so I knew I had to invent it.

Tell us about your home. What’s your favorite part of the space?

We are currently living in a beautiful artist’s loft in Soho where we have ample space for entertaining. We were fortunate to find this spot during Covid, when it was a vacant commercial space in need of some love and TLC. After some light construction and putting up some walls for bedrooms to create a more comfortable environment for our two little boys (Yves, 3 and Rêve, 1), it became the perfect spot for our family and dog (Crumpet) to run around in, for out-of-town friends and family to come stay, and of course, the best place to entertain!

We love the open concept, and I couldn’t imagine living in a space with walls ever again. We have had fun creating ‘rooms’ within the space creatively using furniture, all of which lends themselves to the ideal setup for entertaining. Upon arrival, you enter into a beautiful living room space, perfect for canapés and cocktails, followed by our dining room table, and then a fun lounge space complete with a vintage foosball table for after dinner playtime. Our industrial kitchen spans across the side wall of the home and we added in shelving and an island to make it more homey and a small dining nook for the kids as well. 

My favorite space in the home is our dining room complete with a beautiful china hutch to house some of my many entertaining pieces along with my vintage barnwood table—both of which were Facebook Marketplace finds. I also have a beautiful DIY light fixture above the table that was an old paper mache visual display from the Free People store around the corner they were getting rid of. I purchased some lighting hardware and paint and turned it into something really beautiful. It’s one of my favorite details in our home. (And it cost me under $100.) 

Get Elisa’s Recipe for Rose & Elderflower Lemonade

What does a great gathering look like for you?

The recipe is simple:  good food + good company + a beautiful setting.

Walk us through a typical day for you.

I am fortunate that no day is ever the same, so my routine is far from normal these days. But the one thing that I can (unfortunately) guarantee is my 5:30 a.m. wake up, thanks to my 1-year-old son Rêve. I created a little play nook in my bedroom so we can get a little extra time to relax, check emails, cruise Instagram and Pinterest before we start our day.

From there, it’s typically looking after both kids, getting them prepped for the day and fed, followed by getting myself ready, if there is enough time. My work morning always starts with a coffee (large Americano with a splash of milk in a pretty cup of course) and will vary from store visits to emails or meetings in our office or sometimes working from home while juggling my two kids. There is never a dull moment and my day-to-day is far from routine.

During the evenings, I try to end my day as early as I can to ensure I am able to get home and spend quality time with my boys and husband (who is also my business partner, so much of our quality time spent together is also throughout the day). We always cook together as a family and will only order out or go out about once a month.

My son loves cooking and baking and has his own cooking channel on Instagram within our Maman account called ‘Yves Saint Croissant’, where he cooks through our cookbook. So, he has had a lot of practice and has better kitchen skills than many friends I know! Not only is this fun for him, but it entices him to eat better and be more adventurous when I get him involved in the preparation. Most nights I give him tasks that are age-appropriate like plucking the cilantro leaves, washing the vegetables etc. (Though, to be honest, some nights I give him an iPad and make the quickest thing I can find!)

Following dinner, we wrap up our day with bath time, story time, and bed time, which some days goes smoothly and others take hours! When lucky, my favorite pleasure is getting into bed early once they are asleep, enjoying a glass of red wine, and browsing Pinterest for fun ideas and inspiration or online shopping, of course! 

What are products you love for the table?

When it comes to the table, I love to keep my settings full of personality and creativity. Like the food, nothing is too contrived or uptight. I love pulling pieces from all over my home to work within my tablescape’s color palette or theme and then add elements inspired by the season. Gorgeous food is a must-have, but when combined with beautiful florals and acquired eclectic treasures, it adds a new dimension of interest and can make any table Pinterest-worthy.

Vintage Dishware

We don’t all have a 12-piece setting of perfectly-matched porcelain. The secret to making your table and dinnerware not look like it was pulled together from a garage sale (even if it was!) is to find a unified theme. 

When it comes to plates, stick with a uniform color/pattern. My favorite collection at home is mismatched green-and-white florals (a nice change from my blue and white world at Maman). I’m always looking for sage green and florals. From there, it will all fall into place for a beautiful table. If you are looking to start a vintage collection of your own, start with salad plates. Using your daily white table settings with a fun mix-and-match salad plate on top is a great way to add some visual interest. My go-to, secret place for table settings (where we also buy much of our beautiful settings at Maman) is Replacements. You can search by any theme and price point and have fun curating a collection of your own!   

With regard to glassware and silverware I use the same rules. My common theme with glassware is approximate size and etched florals, and I will pick up individual pieces that catch the eye.

These tips keep will keep your setting fun, playful, and not too contrived. And most importantly, if you are a vintage lover like myself, it always gives me reasons to shop and buy more things!

Olive Oil

Great finishings for food is always something I have on my table and will invest in. From salts to olive oils, these small pantry essentials can help enhance any dish. My current favorite is the Heritage Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Flamingo Estate. The peppery bright taste gives you a nice kick in the throat and it’s versatile enough to use in cooking and as a finishing oil as well. Not to mention the beautiful bottle that blends in with any place setting. 

Flamingo Estate Heritage Extra Virgin Olive Oil

$48

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Flowers

Flowers are an essential way to add organic, natural beauty to any space. For this gathering, I had help from Leatal Cohen of Pic & Petal who did a beautiful job incorporating found pieces to display her gorgeous blooms. Grandma’s old teapot with the broken lid or those cute glass yogurt containers that are too painful to toss could each be the perfect floral vessel. Leatal opted for the recycled yogurt glasses and the resulting look couldn’t have been more beautiful.

What’s your must-have cooking tool? 

I am currently loving my Our Place pots and pans. They are the most versatile piece in my kitchen and perfect for boiling, sautéing, frying, steaming, and so much more. They’re also really beautiful on the countertop or served directly on the table.

Our Place Cookware Set

$339 (reg. $565)

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Get Elisa’s Recipe for Kale Pea & Ricotta Spread

What are your favorite cookbooks?

(Selfishly) I love Maman: The Cookbook as it’s a compilation of all my favorite recipes including some of my passed-on family recipes that I have been keeping for generations. It is approachable for beginners along with some more complex recipes for the kitchen savvy, and it offers over 100 recipes of delicious treats both savory and sweet to take you from breakfast to dessert.

Maman: The Cookbook

$17.59

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My other favorite cookbook is The Yellow Table by my dear friend Anna Watson Carl. Everything in this book is so easy and approachable and includes some of my most delicious recipes and go-to weekday meals. (A must-try: salted butter pecan shortbreads.) She was a big inspiration when I started writing my book and mentored me through the process. 

The Yellow Table

$32.41

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Tell us a few things we’ll always find in your refrigerator.

• Milk. My two baby boys are obsessed with it and are constantly going through jugs daily so you can always find that in our fridge. 
• Fresh herbs. Always a staple in our home. Ideally potted, but otherwise you can find them in the fridge drawer. They are the easiest flavor enhancer to any dish.
• Cheese. Having a French husband, our fridge is always filled with an assortment of cheeses. My children are also obsessed and it is the only foolproof food for my 1-year-old. Pasta and pizza are also weekday staples in our home, so it never goes to waste. I always love having extra on hand for unexpected guests to pull together a quick cheeseboard if needed.  
• Berries. With a toddler and a baby, fresh berries are a staple in our home. I always try to pre-wash them and store in food storage containers in the fridge for quick access. 
• Pickles. I am a huge fan of pickled anything and definitely have more of a salty/sour palate as opposed to sweet. These are my favorite cheats to enhance any dish. I love also using remaining dill pickle juice as opposed to vinegar to make my dressings and add picked onions to everything from eggs to avocado toast. 

What scares you about entertaining?

Not being ready in time! I always spend far too much time setting the table, cooking, styling, and preparing the house—more often than not, looking like a hot mess when guests arrive! My new entertaining rule I’m trying to implement is to do as much as I can the day and night prior and making sure that I give myself ample time to get myself ready first. Your guests are much more understanding and willing to come in and assist you with putting the dressing on the salad and kitchen tasks in preparation for dinner as opposed to helping you get dressed and putting on your mascara! 

What are your signature dishes for gatherings?

As mentioned above, I always opt for dishes that I can prepare in advance or require little prep the day of to leave more time for the fun things like styling and setting. One of my favorites is our tiramisù, from Maman: The Cookbook.

This tiramisù is ideal for entertaining because it’s super simple to prepare and is best made in advance—it actually tastes even better the next day. (If you have the willpower!) It’s a fun twist on the classic recipe, where we swap the traditional ladyfingers for chunks of our signature nutty chocolate chip cookies. However, you can also use any homemade or store-bought chocolate chip cookies. (If they are particularly sweet, you may need to pull back on the sugar.) 

I love preparing these in beautiful stemware for that extra wow factor on the table and using clear glass as you can also see the layers!  

Get Elisa’s Tiramisù Recipe

What advice would share with someone who wants to host a gathering on a budget?

Shop your home first. Who says teacups are just for tea? Cups and saucers can double as dessert or fruit bowls, while vintage glassware and teapots offer unexpected ways to serve hot soup. Many items you own likely have multiple uses, plus you get to bring life back to those rarely used, sometimes sentimental pieces. 

Florals can also become very costly. Instead of a classic bouquet or contrived centerpiece, a fun, impactful arrangement can start with things you have around your home. Maybe grandma’s old teapot that has a broken lid, or those cute glass yogurt containers that are too painful to toss will be the perfect vessels for your flowers.

My favorite vases are my collection of assorted old glass bottles. I use them for simple seasonal stems. This creates height, dimension, and personality—and is much more cost-effective than buying bouquets. Oftentimes, plants and herbs can also make for great tabletop decor. They can be more cost-effective and can last much longer than fresh cuts. Having slim vases along the length of the table rather than a couple of large arrangements is also more practical if food is served family-style on the table.

Favorite question to get to know someone?

“Tell me about your perfect day.” In getting to know someone, I think knowing what they are passionate about can say a lot about them and it’s a great way to kick off broader conversations. 

The perfect dinner party playlist includes:

Ray LaMontagne, Otis Redding, Michael Bublé, and Taylor Swift.

Go-to centerpiece solution:

While flowers and foliage are beautiful to look at, and I always ensure they are a focal point of my table, edible centerpieces can be are as much about making an impression as creating an interactive experience for your guests. Crudités, charcuterie, and cheese platters are staples of the French table and if you add mini tartines, sandwiches, or quiches, you can create fuller, more eye-catching spreads that are perfect for grazing.

For those with a sweet tooth, turn your desserts into a centerpiece. After hours spent in the kitchen, you should relish the beauty of the food you have prepared by setting it on the table to be admired. A beautiful cake adorned with some fresh florals can not only save on centerpiece costs, but can make a beautiful focal point. Some simple florals or berries arranged on or around any sweet treats will enhance them, quickly making them centerpiece-worthy.

What is your no-stress party rule to live by? 

Throw out any rules you may have heard about table decor and place settings—unless you are hosting the royal family or your uptight grandmother, of course. Instead, have fun and use your imagination and get creative. Repurpose an old basket with a drinking glass to make a vase, mix and match your cutlery, and don’t be afraid to think outside of the box when it comes to entertaining. Your friends are more likely to appreciate your home-cooked food and creative details rather than whether or not the water glasses are three inches above the knives and you have a perfectly-matched 8-piece dinner set.

Dream dinner guests?

Martha Stewart, Blake Lively, Taylor Swift, Paul Rudd, and Michael Bublé.

Fill in the blank:

A perfect meal should: be enjoyed in good company.  

It’s not a dinner party without: wine!

Every cook should know how to: not take themselves too seriously.

Words I live by: “I am going to make everything around me beautiful, and that will be my life.” — Elsie De Wolf

The post Buttery Croissants and Flowers, Always—How the Owner of Café Maman Weaves Beauty Into Her Every Day appeared first on Camille Styles.