Hello, fellow home entertaining enthusiasts! I’m always on the lookout for ways to make gatherings feel special without stressing myself into a frenzy. Recently, I had the pleasure of chatting with Leah, a hostess extraordinaire, about her secrets to throwing perfect brunch and afternoon tea parties. Her insights were so good, I just had to share them with you.
The Art of the Brunch Cocktail (and Mocktail!)
“For me,” Leah began, “it all starts with the drinks. A beautiful brunch deserves more than just orange juice!” She’s a big fan of offering a range of options, from classic Mimosas and Bloody Marys (made from scratch, of course – she swears by using good quality tomato juice and plenty of Worcestershire sauce) to more inventive concoctions.
- Leah’s Top Tip: “Don’t be afraid to experiment! Infuse your own simple syrups with herbs like rosemary or lavender. They add a subtle, sophisticated touch to everything.”
She always includes a mocktail option too, ensuring everyone feels included. A sparkling raspberry lemonade or a refreshing cucumber and mint spritzer are her go-to’s. She even has a dedicated ‘mocktail station’ with fresh fruit garnishes, pretty straws, and colourful ice cubes (made with edible flowers, no less!).
- Replicate Leah’s Drink Station: Find a suitable small table or surface and set it up with glassware, garnishes, bar tools, ice bucket and all the drink ingredients. Ensure you have measures available to add to the fun. Do all of this before you even start drinking anything.
Beyond the Booze: Food, Glorious Food
Moving onto the food, Leah emphasises the importance of balance. “Brunch is all about indulgence, but you don’t want everyone feeling sluggish by midday.” She always includes a mix of sweet and savoury dishes.
- Savoury Stars: Mini quiches, smoked salmon bagels with cream cheese and dill, and asparagus wrapped in prosciutto are always a hit.
- Sweet Treats: Scones with clotted cream and jam are a must for afternoon tea, and Leah likes to add homemade muffins and mini croissants to the mix.
- Presentation Matters: She arranges everything beautifully on tiered stands and platters, adding a touch of elegance to the buffet. “Think about colour and texture,” she advises. “A vibrant fruit salad next to a tower of golden pastries is always visually appealing.”
Games and Good Times: Keeping Everyone Entertained
While brunch and afternoon tea are often about conversation, Leah always has a few activities up her sleeve to keep things lively, especially when families are involved.
- For the Little Ones: Colouring books, simple board games, and even a treasure hunt in the garden can keep kids entertained.
- For the Adults: A lighthearted quiz or a game of charades can break the ice and encourage laughter. She even suggests a ‘guess the tea’ game for afternoon tea parties.
- Family Fun: Croquet on the lawn and Rounders are good ways to entertain people of all ages. Keep score and buy prizes for the winning team.
The Orangery Advantage
Leah’s lucky enough to have an orangery, which she says has completely transformed her home entertaining. “It’s the perfect space for brunch,” she explained. “The natural light floods in, creating a bright and airy atmosphere, and it’s easy to open the doors and let the fresh air in on a warm day.”
She uses the orangery for all kinds of events, from formal dinner parties to casual family gatherings. The plants create a sense of tranquility, and it’s a beautiful backdrop for photos. While not everyone has an orangery, she notes that creating a similar atmosphere with indoor plants, natural light, and comfortable seating can make any space feel more inviting.
Pulling It All Together: Simplicity is Key
So, what’s the secret to Leah’s effortless entertaining? According to Leah, the secret is making sure that everyone is comfortable and feels at home. Create a welcoming atmosphere with beautiful decorations and make sure that your guests are well taken care of. Provide a variety of food and drink options, and be sure to plan some fun activities to keep everyone entertained. By following these tips, you can throw a brunch or afternoon tea party that your guests will never forget.
