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

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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

Shop Now

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.

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. In fact, 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.

Featured image by Michelle Nash.

101 “Never Have I Ever” Questions for an Unforgettable Game Night

1. Never have I ever kissed a stranger.

2. Never have I ever left the country.

3. Never have I ever cheated on a test.

4. Never have I ever had a crush on someone playing this game right now.

5. Never have I ever regifted something.

6. Never have I ever ghosted someone I was dating.

7. Never have I ever dined and dashed.

8. Never have I ever lied to my spouse about something important.

9. Never have I ever gotten into a car crash.

10. Never have I ever taken a solo trip.

11. Never have I ever skinny-dipped.

12. Never have I ever lied about my age.

13. Never have I ever had a crush on a co-worker.

14. Never have I ever dyed my hair.

15. Never have I ever had a cosmetic procedure done.

16. Never have I ever gotten a tattoo.

17. Never have I ever gotten a piercing.

18. Never have I ever had a threesome.

19. Never have I ever Googled myself.

20. Never have I ever met a celebrity.

21. Never have I ever used a fake ID.

22. Never have I ever snooped through someone’s phone.

23. Never have I ever tried a trendy diet.

24. Never have I ever broken the law.

25. Never have I ever lied to someone playing this game right now.

26. Never have I ever ended a relationship over text.

27. Never have I ever drunk texted an ex.

28. Never have I ever finished a TV series in a day.

29. Never have I ever spent the whole day in my pajamas.

30. Never have I ever had a crush on a friend’s sibling.

31. Never have I ever lived alone.

32. Never have I ever cried at work.

33. Never have I ever had a regret.

34. Never have I ever wished I had a different life.

35. Never have I ever had my heart broken.

36. Never have I ever broken someone’s heart.

37. Never have I ever gone skydiving.

38. Never have I ever given up on a dream.

39. Never have I ever read an entire book in a day.

40. Never have I ever gone commando.

41. Never have I ever been to a strip club.

42. Never have I ever lied about myself on a dating app.

43. Never have I ever pretended to be sick to get out of work.

44. Never have I ever started a rumor.

45. Never have I ever broken a promise.

46. Never have I ever lied on my resume.

47. Never have I ever gambled.

48. Never have I ever stayed awake for 24 hours or more.

49. Never have I ever had sex in a car or public place.

50. Never have I ever ignored the expiration date on a food label.

51. Never have I ever thought a cartoon character was hot.

52. Never have I ever broken a bone.

53. Never have I ever peed my pants as an adult.

54. Never have I ever fallen in love at first sight.

55. Never have I ever flirted with a bartender or barista.

56. Never have I ever left a negative review.

57. Never have I ever fought someone in public.

58. Never have I ever been fired from a job.

59. Never have I ever fainted.

60. Never have I ever been in an open relationship.

61. Never have I ever kissed more than one person in the same 24 hours.

62. Never have I ever crashed a wedding.

63. Never have I ever sent a text to the wrong person by accident.

64. Never have I ever lied about who I voted for.

65. Never have I ever ridden a horse.

66. Never have I ever sexted.

67. Never have I ever returned a clothing item after wearing it.

68. Never have I ever sent a stranger a drink.

69. Never have I ever had a one-night stand.

70. Never have I ever had a summer fling.

70. Never have I ever slid into a stranger’s DMs.

71. Never have I ever lied about my relationship status.

72. Never have I ever run a red light.

73. Never have I ever dated or hooked up with someone 15 years older or younger than me.

74. Never have I ever met someone at a bar.

75. Never have I ever been on a blind date.

76. Never have I ever worn the same outfit two days in a row.

77. Never have I ever eaten dog or cat food.

78. Never have I ever lied to get out of plans.

79. Never have I ever cut my own bangs.

80. Never have I ever had sex in a public place.

81. Never have I ever eaten a coworker’s lunch from the office fridge.

82. Never have I ever had credit card debt.

83. Never have I ever tried psychadelics.

84. Never have I ever gone to court.

85. Never have I ever blocked a friend or family member on social media.

86. Never have I ever smoked a cigarette.

87. Never have I ever convinced a friend to dump their partner.

88. Never have I ever ridden first class.

89. Never have I ever been on a yacht.

90. Never have I ever faked an orgasm.

91. Never have I ever gotten a hicky.

92. Never have I ever done a prank call.

93. Never have I ever missed rent or a mortgage payment.

94. Never have I ever lied about my income.

95. Never have I ever gotten stitches.

96. Never have I ever gotten stuck in an elevator.

97. Never have I ever accidentally said “I love you” to someone.

98. Never have I ever fought in public.

99. Never have I ever snooped through a host’s bathroom without them knowing.

100. Never have I ever had a bad allergic reaction.

101. Never have I ever worn glasses with fake lenses.

The post 101 “Never Have I Ever” Questions to Heat Up Your Game Nights 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 main dish dinner party 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.

Featured image by Michelle Nash.

24 Dinner Party Recipes 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 recipes 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 colors it brings to your table rival 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.

The Best Roast Chicken With Tomatoes, Lemons, and 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. 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

Sesame Soy Tuna Poke Bowls

What makes it party-ready: This poke bowl is a great meal for a summertime gathering on a hot day. It feels so light and refreshing, but still really special. For a girls’ night, I love to set out all the ingredients 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!

Summer Spaghetti With Tomatoes, Burrata, and Basil

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 spaghetti with tomatoes, burrata, and basil 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.

Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Tomatoes, Olives, and Capers

What makes it party-ready: This is one of those super satisfying one-pan recipes that feels way fancier than it is. And in my experience, salmon is one of the most universally-loved fish dishes. And it’s foolproof! Baking the salmon with the vegetables and lemon slices yields a perfectly tender and flavorful fish every time, since the veggies release their juices to create their own flavorful sauce.

Make it a feast:

• Spring Rice with Greens and Peas
• Roasted or sautéed broccolini (or broccoli)

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: Just add some potatoes that can roast right along with the fish on a separate baking sheet. Or, keep it low-carb like The Defined Dish did at our dinner party 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 always 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.

Pita Tostadas With Butternut Squash, Black Beans, & Avocado

What makes it party-ready: Toastadas are a go-to for a few reasons whenever I’m looking to impress my guests with an easy dinner party recipe. They’re customizable, so everyone can pick and choose what they want to add. This recipe is also a winner for those who like to keep it meat-free, with protein from black beans and healthy fats from avocado.

Make it a feast: I love pairing any Mexican-inspired dish with something that involves rice—whether that be Spanish rice or a hearty soup.

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 really 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 really 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 actually 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?

Gaby’s Pork Carnitas Taco Night

What makes it party-ready: Though I’m a Tex-Mex girl at heart, I also love Baja-style flavors and my friend, Gaby Dalkin nails those Cali-Mexi mashups every time. This recipe from her cookbook gave me the courage to finally try making carnitas myself. Although the extra large cut of meat is perfect for serving a crowd, it can also be intimidating. Thanks to this very simple, flavor-packed preparation, when I’m looking for dinner party recipes, this has become a go-to.

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.

Carne Asana Tacos

What makes it party-ready: These carne asana tacos have been on repeat in my kitchen this summer. Their flavor is absolutely 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 the thing about these charming picnic situations is that they all scream one thing: effortless. However, therein lies the problem for me. I’m known for rocking up to a picnic table with a Yeti cooler filled will an assortment of snacks, “just in case.” I want alllll the aesthetics of a dreamy picnic AND the simplicity.

Thankfully, Camille and the team were on board to bring this Pinterest-worthy vision to life. Could this picnic aesthetic truly be so easy and yet so inspiring? The answer, I’m thrilled to say, is oui! Armed with a handful of perfectly Parisian picnic outfits from (where else?) Sézane and a paired-down spread of five simple items, we set off for an afternoon surrounded by the sounds of summer and the magical Texas wildflowers.

*Don’t be fooled, I’m a full gingham girl for the entire month July.

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Romantic French Scarf

The perfect accessory that’s both feminine and practical. Grab a scarf to tie to your basket then use it in your hair—or even to wrap up your leftover snacks.

Gaston Scarf, $25

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French Girl-Inspired Picnic Outfit Ideas

Before we pack our picnic basket, let’s talk attire. Surprisingly, what you decide to wear might just be the most important part of this entire picnic ordeal. Though the psychology of fashion is science-backed, I think we can all agree anecdotally that our clothing has an impact on our moods. And while there are some practical non-negotiables when it comes to a picnic outfit (something you can easily sit in, for example), what you choose to wear sets the mood for the entire experience.

When it comes to channeling effortless romance, no one does it better than the Paris-born Sézane. The high-quality, feminine pieces go beyond the trends. Dresses, shirting, pants, and accessories are timeless closet staples—for picnics and beyond.

Outfit Option 1: A Billowy Dress That’s Made for Easy Movement

A go-to dress is essential for summer. Personally, I’m always looking for something with a little romance to it—a frill, lace, a puff sleeve—so that I can dress it down with a sneaker or up with a strappy sandal. When it comes to a picnic, you want something that doesn’t pinch or ride up, so the more volume the better.

Maxi Volume Dress with Embroidery Details

If your ideal dress is one that feels like you’re wearing a tent but doesn’t look like it, this is the dress for you. It’s full volume which means this dress takes up space in the best way. It’s incredibly comfortable with hidden pockets at the waist and majorly brings those main character vibes.

Mayla Dress, $245

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Outfit Option 2: A Shirt and Shorts Combo That’s Classic and Refined

One thing I know for sure is that every chic Parisian has a classic button-down hanging in her closet. And it’s likely this exact one. Channel those summer days of old, running around the neighborhood in denim cutoffs, with a more refined look—perfect for picnic-ing.

The Perfect Denim Shirt

This oversized denim shirt is a staple in any closet. It’s the type of piece that you’ll reach for every day—and, good news, it comes in multiple colors and patterns.

Max Shirt in Very Light Denim, $125

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High-Waisted Flare Leg Shorts

Your first impression of these shorts will be the pure quality of both the structure and the fabric. They sell out fast so get them while you can—promise you’ll live in them all summer long.

Rome Shorts, $130

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Tortoiseshell Sunglasses in a Timeless Shape

These sunnies have a slight cat-eye that makes them perfectly flattering for nearly every face shape. Grab them in one of four colors.

Chiara Sunglasses, $180

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Outfit Option 3: A Shirt Dress That’s the Best of Both Worlds

When you can’t decide between a dress and a casual button-down, there’s a clear answer—the shirt dress. Both breathable for a hot day and chic for aesthetics, it’s a clear option for a picnic outside.

Natural Striped Shirt Dress

The safari-chic vibes take on dress form in this easy-to-wear linen blend outfit. Wear it with or without the belt and revel in the feminine detail on the masculine-inspired look that is the dainty liquette bottom.

Alani Dress, $220

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Heritage Leather Clogs

We normally wouldn’t suggest heels for an outdoor excursion but these sturdy clogs are ready for the task. Plus, you can always kick off your shoes for a little grounding along the way.

Fausta Clogs, $240

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What to Pack for an Aesthetic Picnic

I like to think of the picnic aesthetic as impulsive yet poised. It’s “Oh, look! The sun is shining and I absolutely must be outside!” mixed with, “But first, a trip to the market because this kitchen is empty.” Your picnic affair can be a party of one or a date—significant other or otherwise. Either way, all you need for a spread that’s both delicious and (let’s be honest) photo-worthy are these five no-prep items:

1. Chilled Rosé. A bottle of wine or champagne is easily the crown jewel of any picnic. Sip it slowly and let its effervescence transport you to a world where wildflowers and poetry become your entire personality.
2. A Fresh Baguette. If there’s one thing I’ve learned from the French is that a baguette is not a baguette unless it is fresh from the boulangerie. But if there isn’t a bakery en route from home to your chosen field of flowers, I won’t tell.
3. Cheese. Of course, there must be cheese. Grab a single favorite or get crazy and pick up one soft cheese and one hard cheese for contrasting flavors.
4. Stone Fruit. It’s robust, it’s colorful, and it doesn’t require any slicing. Of course, if you’re picnic-packing outside of summer, choose a seasonal fresh fruit so it tastes best. (Jam also works in a pinch.)
5. Salty Nuts. Every good spread needs a salty punch to truly make it all sing. We unapologetically packed shelled pistachios for both flavor and color aesthetics.

June Basket with Embroidered Flowers

Forget the bulky picnic basket. This raffia bag is the perfect size to carry all the essentials. It’ll be your go-to all summer long—from market trips to pool days and everything in between.

Natural June Basket, $210

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Grab the Necessities

To truly capture the romantic vibe of your picnic, grab a few additional items that will set the stage. First, ditch the traditional picnic blanket for a neutral sheet or tablecloth (this linen table throw was practically made for picnics). Pro tip: we’re after aesthetics but we’re not here to ruin our nice things. Bring a waterproof mat to put underneath your cloth—they’re light and easy to throw in a basket. Next, pack only the essentials to bring your spread to life: a small cheese board, cheese knives, and, of course, a wine glass (or two).

Final Touches to Capture the Picnic Aesthetic

Finally, take your picnic to the next level with the two most romantic things on God’s green earth: words and fresh flowers. Pack a novel or a collection of poetry. Or better yet, bring a journal to write down your own words. And there’s no shame in buying yourself flowers or picking a few along the way. Even a few blooms will add a touch of whimsy to your picnic spot—as if you’ve stepped into your very own secret garden.

To wrap it all up, let’s keep it real. Life is far from romantic all the time. Did we step in multiple ant piles on the way to our ~dreamy~ field location? Absolutely. But this is your moment to embrace the wonders of everyday life, pesky ant piles or not. At the risk of sounding sappy, the joy of living is truly in the journey, and more often than not, it’s in our choices. It’s the lens through which we choose to see life. So, put on rosé colored glasses. Wear the dress. Pour the wine. Pretend to understand the poetry. And embrace the singular moment for what it is—utterly romantic.

The joy of living is truly in the journey, and more often than not, it’s in our choices. It’s the lens through which we choose to see life.

The post How to Pack (and What to Wear) for a Romantic French Girl Picnic appeared first on Camille Styles.

Despite our best efforts, the summer can get away from us. Much like the holidays, it’s a special time of year when we want to make the most of every sun-soaked moment. Of course, that means stepping into each day with intention, donning summer fits that move with us all season long. Our entire team has been obsessing over Haven Well Within’s collection of dresses and summer sets that help us keep our cool while still maintaining an effortless-meets-elegant aesthetic. And when a summer gathering is underway, Haven Well Within is our one-stop entertaining shop for essentials like Mediterranean-inspired glassware, serving dishes, and the very best olive oil.

Ready to see how it all comes together? These are my very best tips for hosting an easy, but memorable happy hour at home.

Featured image: Organic Cotton Gauze Dress.

How to Host a Happy Hour at Home: Elevate the Snacks

When it comes to easy-breezy summertime entertaining, you want food that doubles down on being both simple and totally delish. My favorite way to make it happen? Snacks for dinner. (Who needs a main course when you can indulge in a delicious spread of appetizers?) Grazing on a few elevated snacks is not only delicious—but also way more fun.

I whipped up these three no-cook appetizers in under an hour, and I have a feeling they’ll become your go-to snacks all season long.

Pro tip: Finish each dish with a drizzle of Le Marké’s special olive oil for that extra burst of fresh, summery flavor.

Bitter Greens, Citrus, and Prosciutto Salad

This vibrant salad combines radicchio with juicy oranges and thinly sliced prosciutto. The bitterness of the greens pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy flavors of the citrus. A sprinkle of salty pistachios and thick shavings of parmesan gives Italian summer vibes. The final presentation is such a feast for the senses that no one will ever guess it’s one of the simplest summer salads around.

Farmhouse Pottery Rectangular Cheese Stone

$95

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Pro tip: Here’s how to get those gorgeous slices of citrus without the peel or pith:

1. Take a sharp knife and cut off both ends of the fruit, creating flat surfaces.
2. Stand the fruit upright on one of the flat ends.
3. Starting from the top, carefully cut downwards, following the natural curve of the fruit, to remove the peel and pith in sections. Repeat this process all around the fruit until all the peel is removed.
4. Once the peel is removed, you should see the colorful segments of the fruit.
5. Turn the fruit on its side, then use a serrated knife to cut thin round slices that can then be used for layering in salads, desserts, or ready for snacking.

Flamingo Estate Fridays In The Garden Cookbook

$78

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Ricotta Toast with Figs and Honey

This is one of the prettiest toasts in my repertoire. Just a handful of ingredients come together to create a stunning, delicious appetizer that doubles as a delicious vegetarian main course. Here’s how to make it.

Spread creamy ricotta cheese on toasted baguette or sourdough slices. Then top with fresh sliced figs, a drizzle of honey, a sprinkle of chopped mint leaves, and a scattering of crushed pistachios. The combination of creamy, sweet, and nutty flavors creates the perfect bite, especially with a final drizzle of Le Marké’s olive oil.

Le Marké Organic Olive Oil

$37

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Pro tip: Figs are one of those fruits that are only good when they’re perfectly ripe. Here’s how to identify a ripe fig when you’re grocery shopping:

• Color. Ripe figs generally have a rich, deep color. The skin should appear vibrant and have a consistent hue. Depending on the variety, ripe figs can range from green to purple, brown, or black.
• Texture. Gently squeeze the figs. Ripe figs should have a slight give and feel soft to the touch. Avoid figs that are overly firm or mushy, as these are likely underripe or overripe.

Hummus with Crudité and Edible Flowers

I know, I know: hummus with veggie sticks is about as basic as it gets. But this recipe proves: It’s all in the presentation! To make this hummus platter party-worthy, I started with a beautiful oval marble serving platter, and made a dramatic swoosh with the hummus along half the platter.

Then, I topped it with a vibrant display of colorful crudité, such as carrot sticks, cucumber slices, radishes, and fennel. For a final summery touch, I popped in a few edible flowers (these are chive blossoms, but you can also use nasturtiums or pansies). The freshness of the vegetables combined with the creamy hummus creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Pro tip: An unexpected way to level up your crudités is to use a mix of raw and roasted veggies. Here, I used a mix of raw cucumbers, marinated olives, roasted radishes, carrots, and fennel for a display that looked as delicious as it tasted.

Organic Cotton Gauze Tank

$54

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Organic Cotton Gauze Wide Leg Pants

$78

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Suede Cutout Slides

$120

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Pour the Cocktails (and Mocktails) with Fuss-Free Mixers

We kept the drinks light, fruity, and fuss-free by using Sayso’s mixers. Simply mix up these sachets in a pitcher, and you’re ready to serve refreshing cocktails that capture the essence of summer. Don’t forget to offer mocktail options for those who prefer non-alcoholic delights. I made this fun specialty drink in less than five minutes.

Mezcal Cardamom Paloma

Add a few of Sayso’s Skinny Cardamom Paloma sachets to a large pitcher filled with water, ice, and a few splashes of mezcal. Stir well and garnish with citrus slices for a refreshing drink that channels vacay vibes.

Sayso Skinny Cardamom Paloma Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Sachet

$24

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Rosemary Honey Mocktail Mule

For a zesty non-alcoholic option, mix Sayso’s Rosemary Honey Moscow Mule sachet with sparkling water. Add some ice and garnish with a twist of lemon or lime. This sparkling mocktail is perfect for staying refreshed on hot summer days.

Sayso Rosemary Honey Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Sachet

$24

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An Earthy, Elevated Table: Nature-Inspired Décor

For a simple happy hour setup, I let the season be my guide. Incorporate these elements to add an earthy, nature-inspired touch to any gathering.

Organic Cotton Gauze Dress

$88

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Rattan-Wrapped Glassware

Glassware wrapped in rattan brings rustic, beachy character to the table. This natural material complements the summer vibes and adds a nice touch of warmth to the entire aesthetic.

Be Home Keswick Cane Short Tumbler

$26

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Be Home Keswick Cane Tall Tumbler

$33

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Be Home Keswick Cane Carafe

$86

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Colorful Edged Linen Napkins

Wrap linen napkins with colorful edges around flatware to infuse even the simplest setting with a pop of color. These napkins are the perfect blend of minimalist and fun.

Atelier Saucier Mojave Napkin Set

$72

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Elevated Marble Serving Board

Give even the simplest appetizers a major hit of style with a gorgeously green marble serving platter. This material is both sophisticated and earthy, letting the natural beauty of the dishes shine through.

Be Home Onyx Oval Platter

$128

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The Takeaway

These no-cook appetizers and refreshing cocktails are all you need to effortlessly host a summer gathering without breaking a sweat in the kitchen. So invite a few friends over, throw on your gauze and linen, and enjoy a carefree evening of delicious bites, refreshing sips, and beautiful conversation. Cheers!

The post How to Host an Effortless Summer Happy Hour appeared first on Camille Styles.

A Host’s Guide to Setting a Table With Napkins

It’s easy to find yourself in default mode when setting the table. We all know what looks best on our tables, how we like things arranged, or our favorite design elements. That said, we can all agree that it’s never a bad idea to spark creativity with fresh ideas for our tables and, more broadly, our lives!

With that in mind, we’ve rounded up several tips for how to set a table with napkins that you can effortlessly implement into your own table design. By merging traditional table settings with natural beauty and unexpected twists, you can go forth with confidence in your own design abilities.

Types of Napkins and When to Use

We’ve seen napkins in all shapes and sizes. From little cocktail napkins to our favorite linens, you have a broad range to choose from when deciding how to set a table with napkins. And while different types should be used for different occasions (more on that later), you can’t go wrong by getting creative with your table settings. Utilizing your personal design tastes and preferences is of the utmost importance when you’re soaking up these tips.

The key to crafting a beautiful table with napkins is all about marrying traditional design frameworks with your own unique style. Do we dig it? I think yes.

Another thing to consider when weighing paper versus cloth napkins is the environmental impact. Paper napkins are a paper product, and making them requires lots of water and cutting down trees. During this process, greenhouse gases are released into the environment as well. On the other hand, even though they have to be washed every so often, cloth napkins are a much more sustainable source for your table. They don’t utilize wood pulp and they release a significantly lower amount of greenhouse gases.

However, the occasional use of paper napkins is A-OK—especially if they’re made from recycled materials.

When to Use Paper Napkins

In general, paper napkins should be reserved for more casual and/or outdoor gatherings. A few examples:

• Barbecues
• Pool parties
• Buffet-style meals
• Casual outdoor dinners
• Picnics

When to Use Cloth Napkins

Linen napkins can dress up your table a bit more than paper napkins, so it’s good to use these with more formal table settings and/or occasions. Some examples might include:

• Indoor or outdoor dinner parties
• Special occasion dinners (birthdays, anniversaries, celebrations)
• Holiday meals
• Date night
• Everyday meals when you want an elevated feel

Our Favorite Linen Napkin

When it comes to setting the table with napkins, we almost always reach for linen. The fabric’s easy-breezy quality is perfect for summer while also adding a natural, organic element to the table any time of the year. This oversized linen napkin is endlessly versatile (its size allows for a seamless swap-in as your go-to dishtowel). And if it couldn’t be more perfect, it also makes for a beautiful and thoughtful hostess gift. We guarantee: you’ll be invited back.

Napkin Placement

You have a lot of creative freedom when it comes to napkin placement. In fact, there are so many spots for the napkin to shine. However, placement can depend on a few things. You might want to consider how many place settings you’re arranging, what kind of centerpieces you have, and how many place settings you’re adding to the table. This can impact how much wiggle room you have with your napkin, which will influence its placement.

Below, we’ve listed a few ways to style a napkin on your table so you have something on hand for every occasion.

On the Plate

Placing the napkin on the plate is one of the more traditional variations of napkin placement. It’s classy, understated, and serves as a visual reminder for your guests to place it in their laps upon sitting. If you’re choosing the “napkin on the plate” route, you’ll probably want to refrain from placing the cutlery on top of the napkin, though it’s not entirely off the table. While other styles open up more room for silverware stacking, it can become a tad crowded here when the napkin is on the plate itself.

Under the Plate

Having your napkin as the foundation for your plates is a gorgeous way to add depth to the table. Think of the napkin as a more-stylish charger setting the base for plates. It’s a simple touch that elevates the table with hardly any effort. It hangs over the edge of the table and helps fill some of the empty space between the chair and table, which looks stunning from near and far.

To the Side of the Plate

Arranging your napkin to the side of the plate opens a lot of doors. Allow me to explain. You can do a lot of different things when the napkin is on the side of the plate. You can fold it up for a more uniform look, shake it out, and drape it naturally for a more textured look, or place your silverware on top of it for vertical depth.

Whatever you choose, placing the napkin to the side of the plate is a simple way to fill out your table beautifully. As for what side to put it on, follow the traditional silverware placement should you choose to layer in those elements.

Knotted Above the Plate

For a fun twist on the table, knot your napkins and place them at the top of the plate. It’s a simple way to add an eye-popping element to the mix and give your guests something to rave about. With this arrangement, I love to add a place card or fresh herb bundle on top of the plate. Or, you can let the plate’s natural beauty speak for itself. Either way, you can’t go wrong with a classic knotted napkin.

Napkin Placement Etiquette

What to Do With a Napkin When You Sit Down

It’s a basic rule of dinner party etiquette to remove your napkin from the table and fold it into your lap upon sitting down. Take the time to gently unfold it and place it in your lap. It’s a simple signal that makes it clear that everyone is settled and ready to begin the meal.

What to Do With a Napkin When You Get Up

This is a tricky one! We’re often told different ways to leave a napkin at the table should you need to step away. Some people leave it in the chair, some drape it over the chair’s back, and others crumple it up and toss it to the side.

Contrary to what we might be accustomed to, none of these are correct. If you need to excuse yourself from the table, loosely fold your napkin before standing and place it to the left or right of your plate. In the traditional sense of etiquette, this is a polite way of leaving your napkin at the table without drawing too much attention to yourself or disrupting the flow of the meal.

What to Do With a Napkin When You Are Finished Eating

When you’re finished eating, you’ll want to do almost the same thing with the napkin that you would if you get up for a moment. Only this time, place the loosely-folded napkin to the left of the plate to signal that you’re finished with your meal. It’s the same idea as aligning your silverware together on the plate to show that you’ve finished eating. It’s simple, understated, and proper in the traditional sense.

The Takeaway

All in all, learning how to set a table with napkins is a simple step you can take to bring your table-setting skills to the next level. While there are many ways to utilize napkins’ often untapped potential, it truly boils down to your preferences and the other elements at play.

You may find that one of these options works better for your go-to arrangement, or that you’re able to use different settings in different situations, or for different tables. And that’s the beauty of it all! With these napkin settings, go forth with confidence in your table setting abilities and infuse beauty into the everyday.

The post It’s the Ultimate Hosting Hack—How to Use Napkins to Level Up Your Table appeared first on Camille Styles.

When Ajiri came through Austin to celebrate the launch of Joie, we had the pleasure of hosting her at Camille’s casa for a casual gathering. And while, yes, it was a bit sparklier and more celebratory than usual, the late-afternoon event fully embodied the heart and soul of a true apéro. And if you’re not familiar, allow me to introduce you to the magic of how to host an apéro.

What is an apero?

Originating from the French word “aperitif,” an apéro is a pre-dinner (or lunch!) gathering that celebrates the joys of delicious appetizers, refreshing beverages, and relaxed conversations. It’s a laid-back, pre-meal gathering with a focus on friends, family, and conversation—NOT spending hours in the kitchen. All it takes to host an apéro? A quick trip to the market and a text to friends.

The magic of an apéro is that it can be planned or spontaneous. The French have perfected the art of conversing about hobbies, travel, and all of life’s pleasures over champagne and fresh baguettes. And since it’s the perfect way to gather this summer, I’m mapping out how to host an apéro along with the simple dos (grab easy snacks) and don’ts (talk about work) just ahead.

Step 1: Set the Scene

An apéro is meant to be enjoyed. For the host, that may very well mean pulling out the good china (an important lesson I’ve learned from Ajiri). Grab your favorite platters, decorative bowls, and cute little utensils. Pull out the etched glassware and vintage plates. It’s a laid-back gathering, yes, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be beautifully authentic to you. If you’ve got candles, light them. And never underestimate the power of fresh flowers. Remember, the goal is to create an environment where everyone feels at ease.

Step 2: Curate the Menu

When it comes to the menu, simple is the way to go. In Joie, Ajiri notes that even a bowl of chips and nuts will do the trick. It’s perfectly acceptable to raid your pantry for salty snacks. Ultimately, opt for easy-to-prepare appetizers that require minimal time and effort. And remember, you’re only meant to whet the appetite here, not demolish it completely. Here are a few classic options to consider:

1. Fresh Vegetable Crudité. Prepare a colorful platter of fresh vegetables like cucumber, carrot sticks, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and radishes. Serve with a variety of dips like hummus, tzatziki, or salsa.
2. Charcuterie. Set out a small selection of meats, olives, and nuts for a chic snack plate.
3. Cheese. I learned from Ajiri that cheese is only served before dessert in France. However, if you live anywhere else it’s perfectly acceptable to nibble on a selection of cheeses pre-dinner.
4. Baguettes. Fresh baguettes are ideal here, especially if you’re in France. If you can stop by the farmer’s market or a local bakery for a fresh baguette, the Parisians will be proud. (But if not, my lips are sealed.) Always serve with good butter and flaky salt.

Step 3: Select the Drinks

No French apéro is complete without a delightful drink in hand. Here’s what you need:

1. Glassware. Set out your favorite wine glasses, champagne coups, or flutes.
2. Wine or Champagne. If you’re opting for wine, choose a light and sweet option. A crisp white wine is a simple choice.
3. Apéritifs. Offer classic French apéritifs like Lillet, Pastis, or a Kir, a French cocktail made crème de cassis (a blackcurrant liqueur) topped with white wine.
4. Water and Other Refreshments. For a non-alcoholic option, prepare a simple mocktail with sparkling water, fresh fruits, and herbs.

Step 4: Unwind and Enjoy

The key to the ritual of an apéro is to let go of perfectionism and embrace the here and now. Allow the conversation to flow naturally and enjoy the pleasure of good company. Drop the topic of work (the French would never allow it) and instead turn the conversation toward upcoming travels, ask about hobbies, and share stories. And above all, savor the moment.

The post How to Host an Apéro: The Ultimate French-Inspired Happy Hour appeared first on Camille Styles.

From decor ideas to practical tips, these outdoor table settings will help you make your outdoor dining experience a feast for all the senses.

Featured image by Michelle Nash.

Outdoor Table Settings: Your Go-To Guide

Whether you’re hosting a garden party, celebratory brunch, or simply enjoying a meal under the open sky, you can count on one thing to bring it all together: outdoor table settings. These table settings play a crucial role in setting the mood and giving your guests (and yourself) the best dining experience possible.

To lead the way, we’ve rounded up a few of Camille’s expertly-designed tables alongside those crafted by tastemakers we’ve accompanied over the years. With these tablescapes as inspiration, you’ll have everything you need to set your own dreamy table. So, pour yourself a glass of rosé, pull up a chair, and slip into design paradise as we uncover how to turn your backyard into the ultimate dining oasis.

How to Set an Outdoor Table

When it comes time to set your outdoor table, it’s important to pay attention to your design preferences. You may be all about the neutrals, or love to weave in color to your table. Whichever you prefer, you’ll find that nature offers the perfect canvas for both. Also, depending on the occasion and/or meal, you might find yourself shooting for a formal table setting or something more casual. Whichever the occasion calls for, you can create a stunning tablescape that’s appropriate and perfectly in tune with the celebration at hand. And no matter what, you can rest easy knowing that everything tastes better outdoors—and that’s a fact. With these outdoor table settings inspiring your own creations, you’re totally equipped to meet all your outdoor hosting needs in style.

1. Incorporate Nature’s Beauty

When dining outside, why not utilize what’s around you? From flowers to branches and everything in between, incorporating a bit of your surroundings is an easy way to create a gorgeous table that feels organic. Grab some flowers from the garden for your centerpiece or clip a few fresh herbs to lay over each napkin to incorporate that organic beauty into your table.

2. Incorporate Clay-Colored Elements

For a desert-inspired look, weaving in natural clay colors makes for a casually cool table that’s elevated all the same. You can do this by using a linen tablecloth, napkins, or ceramics that marry neutral hues with muted color in the most beautiful way.

More inspiration: A desert dinner party with Alison Carroll

Casa Zuma Linen Table Throw in Clay

A lightweight linen that adds texture and warmth to your table is exactly what you need for outdoor dining. It’s a no-frills throw that looks perfectly imperfect on every table you lay it over.

$80

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3. Make It a Grazing Table

For a gathering that’s all about the mingling, creating a grazing table is the perfect way to encourage casual conversation. Instead of a sit down dinner, this aperitif-style table is a fun change of pace for your guests that will allow them to make the rounds without any obstacles. Load your table with lots of floral arrangements, grab-and-go menu items, and handcrafted ceramics and flatware for your guests to use at their own speed.

More inspiration: Ajiri Aki’s backyard apéro book party

4. Let Neutrals Lead the Way

A neutral color palette is always fit for the outdoors. By keeping your colors muted, you’re allowing space for the beautiful colors of the outdoors to shine through. Whites fare really well here alongside a more demure base to keep things from being too stark. From there, you can weave in some color in the form of flowers, fruits, herbs—you name it. It’s all about the natural beauty.

5. Light It Up

String lights are not going away anytime soon and for good reason! They elevate any outdoor space and are so simple to incorporate. Aligning your table under the lights means you get to reap the benefits of a candlelit dinner without having to light any candles. It’s mood lighting, reimagined.

6. Go Fruit-Forward

How stunning is that vine? Not only does it add a gorgeous pop of color, but it’s a statement centerpiece that really defines the table. It’s natural, full of life, and can be plucked straight from the garden to the table. Plus, it’s a guaranteed conversation starter.

More inspiration: A friendsgiving brunch with Sweet Laurel Bakery

7. Rustic Beauty

When it comes to outdoor table settings, you can never go wrong with a few rustic elements that feel home-y and nostalgic. In this case, oil lanterns and artisanal furniture pieces introduce a familiarity to the table that you can’t beat.

More inspiration: An outdoor gathering with Walden Retreats

8. Simplify Your Settings

There’s no rule book that says you always have to use the traditional table setting elements. In fact, simplifying your table can often make your gathering more approachable for you and your guests. Something as simple as omitting a placemat can make your table feel more relaxed and casual.

9. Monochromatic Magic

It may seem counterintuitive to attribute monochromatic elements to making your colors shine, but that’s exactly what’s going on here. If you love a pop of color but don’t want to clash with nature’s colors around you, give each of your colors a buddy. Here, white chairs match a white tablecloth—lending way for those stunning orange flowers to take the spotlight. If you put your mind to it, it’s super easy to implement.

More inspiration: Backyard lunch with Aran Goyoaga

10. Stack Your Silverware

For an outdoor table, I love a napkin bundle that encases everything you need. Set on top of the plate, the flatware and napkin are both in one place, ready to use. It’s a more casual setting that feels on par with the outdoor table setting. Plus, it’s easier on you as the table setter to not have to worry about the alignment and spacing of the silverware. A win-win, if you will.

More inspiration: A garden-to-table lunch with Camilla Marcus

With your outdoor table set, all you need now is some menu inspiration! Check out our favorite outdoor cooking recipes for the perfect al fresco meal.

The post Take It Outside—10 Gorgeous Outdoor Tables to Inspire Al Fresco Season appeared first on Camille Styles.