I love holiday parties! Invites, e-vites, verbal invitations and last minute tag-alongs are all in the mix during the festive season so advanced preparation is key. I keep a clean, pressed tuxedo in the closet at all times and I shop ahead for host/hostess gifts. My take on what to bring to a party is simple. I go for the practical, beautiful, useful thing that is – most importantly – universal. We’ve all witnessed that awkward moment when an unsuspecting host is seen ‘thanking’ a dear friend for the ‘wonderfully imaginative’ bedazzled picture frame that will just ‘POP’ in their living room that is designed in Danish Modern minimalist style. So…this year I’m giving books: most specifically books that an at-home entertainer would love, and it just so happens that a handful of good friends of mine have published some holiday appropriate humdingers just in time for the social swing of the season. Herewith, a few tasty tomes to tote along!
The Inviting Life by Laura Calder
If you're a consummate host, you'll find a kindred spirit in Calder. If you've never attempted to entertain at home, read this book and you will find your way. I've dined at Laura Calder’s legendary table and enjoyed her great company, and now with the publication of this thoughtful and witty volume, I know how she does it all so staggeringly well. This book will remain close at hand in my own home for as long as I have one. I enjoyed "The Inviting Life" so much, I even provided one of the blurbs on the inside cover!
Farm to Chef by Lynn Crawford
My pal Chef Lynn has created a cookbook a designer - who can’t cook very well, but can lay out a mean kitchen, nonetheless - could love. Like Lynn’s previously published works, this newest volume is full of delectable delights that are easy to make, and features recipes that call for the best available farm-to-chef ingredients. And the bonus? Food photography by Virginia Macdonald is so stunning, you’ll want to keep this tasty tome in the parlor instead of in the pantry. Every image is an invitation to farm fresh flavours and come together over fabulous food. So clear a spot on the coffee table because I’m declaring “Farm to Chef” deliciously designer-approved!
Toronto Eats by Amy Rosen
My fabulous, funny gal pal Amy Rosen has done it again! Toronto Eats, the delightful and delectable follow-up to her best selling Toronto Cooks is yet another triumph. Filled with favourite recipes from Toronto’s hottest spots, you don’t have to be Torontonian to benefit from the foodie fabulousness of one of the nations most vibrant and diverse culinary cultures. Amy has curated a collection of easy to follow dishes designed by top Toronto talent – a combination that offers a taste of the T-dot to go! And hey, if you happen to be planning a visit to The 6, Toronto Eats serves as a passport and trip-guide to the city’s most relevant reservations. “Before you book, get this book!”
And OF COURSE… when invited to a party I love to bring along this little beauty by my bestie…
At Home Sarah Style by Sarah Richardson
This is the ultimate insight into what makes my favourite design darling the best hostess I know! At Home Sarah Style is filled with rooms to remember in her own inimitably inspiring environments and family recipes that keep her friends and relatives coming ‘home’ to Sarah’s House time and time again. I have “quality-tested” each and every bite contained within, so I’m imminently qualified to heartily recommend this perennial favourite.
