I am enjoying a busy, happy week getting my daughters settled in Washington, so I invited my good friend Sandy from Reluctant Entertainer to share some thoughtful ideas about living well — and, naturally for her, entertaining beautifully. If you think elegant entertaining is only for people like Martha Stewart, read on.
Through Reluctant Entertainer, Sandy encourages readers to focus on connecting with people rather than trying to impress them. When we shift our priorities to genuine connection, we can welcome neighbors and meet new people despite imperfections, busy schedules, and life’s obstacles.
A beautiful life is about the authentic life we live and the ways we share it with others.
As we head into another weekend, please welcome Sandy, who will describe her idea of a perfect summer evening. I love that it includes inviting me over to dinner!
{the rest of this post was written by Sandy, Reluctant Entertainer}
Let’s imagine my friend Melissa Michaels and her family are coming for dinner tonight
For several years our families lived only four hours apart. Since Melissa moved to Seattle, that four-hour drive has become seven, and our opportunities to get together are much rarer. We regret not making the most of our time when we lived closer.
Yes, entertaining takes effort. Yes, you have to make it happen — it rarely happens by itself.
So I’m going to pretend …
It’s a beautiful time in southern Oregon right now: cool nights and warm days, perfect for an evening outside.
I’m setting the table with one of my favorite oilcloth tablecloths made in France. Imagine a tablecloth you don’t have to launder — these wipe clean with a damp sponge and look like new. They are nothing like the old vinyl or plastic tablecloths; they’re attractive and incredibly practical for hosting. They make setting a relaxed, pretty table easy.
I’m setting the table for our family and for Melissa, her husband, and their son. If her daughters and son-in-law stop by, even better — I can be spontaneous. The more the merrier!
Simple table setting — a few votive candles and snips of iris from the yard.
Food prepared — tender halibut and a fresh salad from the garden.
Melissa will bring dessert — the power of delegation.
Backyard arranged for guests — easy, inviting ambiance.
Kids ready to play together and enjoy the evening.
Music playing softly.
The night is young.
More than the ambiance or the tablescape, what makes entertaining meaningful is the connection — the conversations, the relationships formed, and the moments of shared intimacy.
Reaching out to new families and welcoming them into our lives is how we make a difference in our communities.
Real entertaining is simply about real people spending time together.
When was the last time you invited a new family over for dinner?
Please share your thoughts in the comments and any links to your own gatherings.
Photos: Paul Coughlin