These days when I entertain at home, it is usually for a smaller group than in the old days of BIG shindigs.
The first thing I do when planning a party is pull out an old-fashioned yellow legal pad and a good pen. Then I sit still, turn inward, and start to visualize. To my inner vision, I add people, place, and time of day. I see the layout, colors, lighting, and the Feng Sui of the space. When I open my eyes, I start to write down the menu.
Because cooking is an act of love, and having a party is a great way to decompress from this challenging world… I want to feed my guests to experience comfort, delight, connection, and FUN.
I think about every person who will be in attendance and gather any notes I know about certain likes, dislikes, possible allergies,
dietary preferences (like who’s on a diet and who’s not – lol). This gives me direction in planning. And of course, a pot of gumbo is always at the top of my list. I love making it. And everyone loves eating it.
You know when you’re at a party and you realize a hush has fallen over the room – and it is because the food has been served, and everyone is simultaneously enjoying the flavors and warmth, and joy of being fed? These are the moments that I live for! This is how I Gumbo Love!
What’s your favorite occasion to throw a party? How do you do it?
