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Ask The Expert | Summer Entertaining With Bell Hutley
We spoke to illustrator, Bell Hutley, who has collaborated with Penny Morrison on a summer tableware collection, about her tips and tricks when entertaining.
Q: What is your favourite way to entertain?
A: Nothing too smart, I love things more causal and rough and ready. An intimate dinner surrounded by my best friends with good lighting, food, flowers and wine is the ingredients you need for a special night. I luckily have good friends who always help with the cooking, I love to decorate the the living room with candles and good lighting with nice music setting the scene.
Q: What makes a good event?
A: Causal energy I think is nice to keep things relaxed and not too formal. Fun music playing, good light is vital - with dimmers and candles you can't go wrong. I always start my guests on some tasty cocktails to get the party going.
Q: What is your go-to meal & drinks?
A: Cooking for me is my weak area so I have nailed a couple of dishes that I can do pretty well. One is lemon and garlic salmon with peas, spinach and a creamy leek dish with yummy crispy potatoes. I also love making cocktails. Dirty martinis or margaritas are my go-to, plus plenty of wine.
Q: How do you like to dress the table?
A: I never like to make it too formal, I want lots of colours and layers topped with flowers and candles. Of course I end up using my own tableware - I like to mix and match with complementary colours with the napkins and table mats.
Q: Where is your ideal summer dining destination?
A: Outside in the garden for sure. At my parents' house there is an outdoor table with a wisteria vine hanging above the table which makes more a fresh and cosy atmosphere. Lit up with night lights and candles, eating into the night, there is nothing better.
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