First you have to invite the friends..
Have you put it off? Never got round to it somehow? You think you haven't got time, it's too much work, you don't know what to cook?
Planning in advance is the answer to easy and relaxing entertaining. I either get things out of the way early in the week and leave the day itself to concentrate on preparing, or do a bit each day. Either works but I don't get anxious if I have a plan. We live a long way from any shops so I have to think ahead about the food at least (and I write it down then try not to change my mind!).
Once you have found a menu that works (see yesterday's post) don't be afraid to repeat it with other friends (I try not to repeat it with the same friends but that may well have happened - but if it's good food, who minds?)
As to the house - open the windows for an hour or two, whip round the dining room putting the 'pile' of papers and clutter in another room, fresh towels and soap in the bathroom, candles and flowers - any kind - tea lights and wild flowers in jam jars, whatever. I think you get away with a lot if you have candles and flowers.
So lift the phone and make that call. Enjoy! It is one of life's greatest pleasures.
(If I invite you round for dinner any time soon, you know what you are going to have, don't you....)
Oh, an important PS:- ALWAYS ask if anyone has any allergies/dislikes/spicial requirements. I had someone lactose intolerant and another who was diabetic at the same meal - all the more reason to PLAN.
Have you put it off? Never got round to it somehow? You think you haven't got time, it's too much work, you don't know what to cook?
Planning in advance is the answer to easy and relaxing entertaining. I either get things out of the way early in the week and leave the day itself to concentrate on preparing, or do a bit each day. Either works but I don't get anxious if I have a plan. We live a long way from any shops so I have to think ahead about the food at least (and I write it down then try not to change my mind!).
Once you have found a menu that works (see yesterday's post) don't be afraid to repeat it with other friends (I try not to repeat it with the same friends but that may well have happened - but if it's good food, who minds?)
As to the house - open the windows for an hour or two, whip round the dining room putting the 'pile' of papers and clutter in another room, fresh towels and soap in the bathroom, candles and flowers - any kind - tea lights and wild flowers in jam jars, whatever. I think you get away with a lot if you have candles and flowers.
So lift the phone and make that call. Enjoy! It is one of life's greatest pleasures.
(If I invite you round for dinner any time soon, you know what you are going to have, don't you....)
Oh, an important PS:- ALWAYS ask if anyone has any allergies/dislikes/spicial requirements. I had someone lactose intolerant and another who was diabetic at the same meal - all the more reason to PLAN.
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