The changing of a season is often a time for celebration. As we close out the summer season, we at Keith Watson are embarking on a celebration of our own: We are excited to celebrate our 10-year anniversary in Gainesville! The many years of knowledge and experience has provided us with wisdom and a sense of responsibility to share our passion for creating stylish events. It is our desire to provide ideas and tips from the large-scale, lavishly detailed events we produce in order to create a version all your own, because for us…it’s in the details.
…It’s in the details
Deciding on the theme or style of a special celebration can be a daunting task. There are many aspects to consider such as the time of year and menu, choosing the appropriate elements to ignite all the senses and the guest list, to name a few.
Why would you not want to entertain in August or September? It’s the end of summer, the kids are back in school, football season has begun and you are already planning your fall and winter schedule; a post-summer soirée is the best cure for the end of summer blues! Now is the perfect time to celebrate the days of soaking in the sun, discuss your best summer read or share all those photos you dare not post on Facebook.
An important aspect of any successful event is choosing an appropriate menu. Consider the time of year in which your event occurs to utilize produce that is at its peak. Watermelon (the peak season lasts from May until September) is a wonderful, sweet fruit that is an excellent ingredient for a delightful signature drink. The Watermelon Lemonade Sparkler is a refreshing beverage with homemade lemonade, watermelon puree and sparkling water. Add a bottle (or two) of Limoncello, and your beverage bar just became an interactive cocktail station. This signature drink along with a few simply prepared hors d’oeuvres, like prosciutto melon rosemary skewers, avocado ranch beef sliders and lemon-basil shrimp skewers over a bed of mango salsa, helps create a casual tone for your small gathering.
When it comes to entertaining, the key is to take advantage of every square inch available. Create self-serve stations throughout your home to encourage guests to mingle throughout the entire space. As a host, you can now enjoy your party rather than be distracted by serving guests. Think of each station as a small vignette for adding décor that elevates your gathering from something common to something special. Start by choosing something that inspires you. Then, make design choices that reflect that. Incorporate fresh flowers from your local market to add a bold color. Bring in a few other colorful accent pieces such as serving trays and candleholders to complete the look.
Hosting is all about serving your guests and showing them how much you appreciate them. The hallmarks of a successful event are preparation, staying relaxed and enjoying the company of your guests.
Drink Recipe: Watermelon Lemonade Sparkler
Ingredients
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup water
4 cups cubed watermelon
3 cups cold water
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
Sparkling water
1 cup Limoncello – lemon liquor
Directions
- Place the watermelon into a blender. Cover, and puree until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh sieve.
- Bring sugar and 1/2 cup water to a boil in a saucepan over medium-high heat until sugar dissolves — about five minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in three cups of cold water and the lemon juice. Divide the ice into 12 glasses, and scoop two to three tablespoons of watermelon puree over the ice, add 1.5 oz. of Limoncello, and top with the lemonade and a splash of sparkling water. Gently stir before serving.
- Garnish with watermelon and fresh mint.
Scented Candles and Food
Scented candles can be a great way to add an extra element to your gathering. Our current favorite is Gilded Amberleaf by Illume. Be sure to avoid placing scented candles near the serving area so as not to overwhelm the delicious smell of the food.
I remember sitting at an outdoor café on Columbus Avenue in New York City wearing a white linen suit, sipping Long Island iced tea and discussing Hemingway novels with a fellow actor toward the end of summer. Recordings of Edith Piaf played in the background, and white sheer drapes fluttered in the open windows of those also taking advantage of the warmer weather. Planning a small summer gathering takes me back to those days and provides the ideal opportunity we all need to slow down and enjoy life, family and friends.