Nina’s tips: Keep tables simple

“You can’t go wrong with a crisp white tablecloth and white china – then the food really pops. If you want some colour, invest in a couple of really stunning platters and encourage people to serve themselves, so everything feels more laid-back.”

Plan stylish Canapes

“A rainbow platter of seasonal vegetables can look really beautiful and I will normally make a couple of dips, all of which can be prepared ahead.”

Focus on roasts

“Slow-roast meat or vegetables can sit in the oven. You can make a sauce ahead of time – a cashew and tarragon pesto for chicken or a crispy shallot chilli oil – that guests can add themselves, which makes it all feel extra special. A whole roast fish is also forgiving – keep it wrapped in foil and it will stay moist for around 20 minutes.”

Make impressive puddings hassle-Free

“Amazing quality ice cream from a brand like Grom is a great dessert. You can serve it with a dark chocolate sauce – make a ganache with melted chocolate and cream, and add toasted almonds. Pavlovas are also visually stunning but take very little effort, and can be drizzled with seasonal compotes too.”

serve chic ready-made cocktails

“Buy ready-mixed cocktails and add crushed ice. Or make a fruit purée that you can add to Prosecco. For event cocktails I like therumrunner.co.uk.”

Finishing touches count

“I add micro herbs or edible flowers to dishes. Scatter dried cornflowers over a frosted carrot cake, sprinkle pansies over a salad, or use micro thyme on any whole baked fish. It takes seconds but can make the simplest things look so beautiful.”

See Nina’s recipes at ninafood.com w&h