THROWING THE PERFECT GARDEN PARTY
With the sunny days promised to return, wellbeing guru Liz Earle reveals her favourite finishing touches to
Forecasters are predicting an Indian summer and with so much gorgeous greenery and brilliant blooms to lure us outdoors, it’s hardly surprising we’re lavishing attention on our gardens and embracing al fresco entertaining. In true Mediterranean style, the hot summer has given us countless opportunities to dine, sip and gather under the sun (or balmy evening skies) – and with – hopefully – plenty more to come, where better to turn to for inspiration on creating the garden feel-good factor than Liz Earle?
The wellbeing guru and entrepreneur adores a summer social and has plenty of ideas for making it special.
“I love garden parties and have had more than usual this year, to make the most of all the balmy summer evenings we’ve had over the last few months.”
As for her approach to styling the event: “This year I’ve been bringing the sun-soaked colours of the tropics to my summer party table,” says Liz,
PERSONALISE PLACE SETTINGS
“Adding a personalised touch to your party, through place settings, is a great way of making sure everyone feels included and welcome, and an easy way to place your guests around the table as you wish,” says Liz.
“I like to paint guests’ initials on water glasses, using a water-based paint so I can re-use the glasses time and time again.”
Otherwise, sweet treats with personal messages to celebrate special occasions will bring charm and fun to the table.
Personalised sweet tree – Haribo, from £23.99, GettingPersonal.co.uk
SERVE MOOD-BOOSTING FOOD
who is also founder and editor-inchief of Liz Earle Wellbeing.
“Simple ideas can really transform a plain table top, such as creating beach lanterns using tea lights in jam jars filled with sand and shells.”
Spending time outside also makes us so much more aware of the “seasonality of life”, adds Liz.
Here are her favourite tips for the perfect garden get-together – some of them simple yet hugely effective... “What we put into our bodies affects us both physically and mentally, so consider serving feasts for the senses that not only look amazing but taste incredible too,” suggests Liz, a passionate advocate of healthy, balanced living.
“Some of my favourite summer party dishes can be found in the latest edition of the Liz Earle Wellbeing Yearbook (£25, lizearlewellbeing.com), and include buckwheat seafood paella, grilled sardines with capers and anchovies, and frozen pineapple rings and watermelon slices, all served in beautiful bright dishes to bring colour to the party table.”
Alternatively, if you don’t eat meat or aren’t too keen on shellfish, this Beetroot tableware from Emily Bond plated with fresh veggies will look just as well dressed for dinner...