A Brief History of Entertaining

the night before washing, prepping, and chopping all the ingredients so you can simply whip it together the next day.

You can also set the table the night before, adding just the fresh or organic decor the next day. I stack all of the pieces on the table the night before, including servingware, with a little sticky note on each piece to help me (and any helper) know what goes in each. I like to set the table right before guests arrive, because it is a way for me to relax and meditate a bit before the guests swarm. Setting the table is one of the more simple tasks for me, but you might find other tasks come easier, and those can be the last things you do before guests arrive.

PLAN THE FLORALS

Florals are both a classic and modern way to make a special statement for any occasion. But they don’t have to be complex works of art to be special. Florals are not just for the table—they can brighten any room your guests will be sharing. Here are the most common ways anyone can bring fresh and organic vibes to any setting: • small plants

• store-bought arrangement-turned-centerpiece

• greenery on the table • bud vases

• wildflowers/other adornments from outside

• dried flowers for reuse

Almost anything can be made into a vase for your floral arrangements. If it does not hold water, simply insert a plastic or glass container, or even a reusable food storage bag.

Floral Arranging Tips

• Use florals that are as fresh as possible. If you are foraging, collect florals in the morning when their water content is highest. If you are purchasing, look for crisp bright green stems; the blooms should be perky and the petals free from dark edges. Don’t select stems with closed buds, as they often never open all the way (with the exception of lilies, tulips, and gladiolas). • Trim the florals to take in the most water. Remove all of the leaves that will be under the water line, placing the florals in lukewarm water as soon as possible. Stems should be cut on the diagonal to increase the surface area soaking up the water. Woody stems can be hammered or broken for better water intake.

• Picture an imaginary outline as your arrangement shape.

Begin by placing the basic outline greenery and then add in stems, considering height and color, while picturing a basic outline shape of the entire arrangement. Knowing when to stop is vital, and learned over time. Don’t try too hard, or the florals will look like old-timely funeral arrangements. Bright colors make bold statements, and irregularity can add interest and charm. The most important factor for your arrangement is to repeat the natural, organic line and form of the flowers.