Planning an Easter Brunch for Friends and Family
This year will be the third time we’ve hosted Easter brunch for our close friends. We love being a home away from home for those of us in nation’s capital for such a special holiday. Here are a few tips that we’ve learned along the way…
Don’t try anything new. Now is not the time to try anything cute that you haven’t dabbled with before. Trust me. I’ve learned this the hard time by now after one too many new coconut cake recipes that all turned out dry after taking me eight hours. Stick with your tried-and-trues for special occasions. If you’d like to try that new recipe in Southern Living, test it out this weekend first when your finished product isn’t the final one and you’re not under a time clock.
Identify shortcuts that you know are shortcuts, but that your guests won’t. Mix a pre-packaged salad with slices of grapefruit, walnut pieces, and a good drizzle of olive oil (or walnut oil – it’s divine over endive). Buy a pre-cut vegetable tray and rearrange it onto your own dish. Or – and I’m embarrassed, but when you have to save time, you have to save time – roll out those break-and-bake sugar cookies into balls and bake with sugar sprinkles on top for an easy dessert. No one judges for frozen biscuits or rolls. If you have that much time on your hands, I’m hiring.
Start collecting grocery store fliers and emails the week before and stock up on sale items. If you’re like me, your disposable income goes either to your closet or the tabletop, so buying items when they’re in season is your best bet to get the freshest and tastiest items – and to get them on sale. Check out what’s on sale in produce, like asparagus, peas, and other spring items. Pick up frozen rolls and even your ham a few days out.
Break out a bright and cheery spread. This is probably the first time you’ve entertained with spring colors since the season officially began, so take advantage of it with fabulous pastels, oodles of eggs, too many rabbits, and big bunches of blooms. I’ve mentioned before that I like to shop for decorations the day after a holiday ends. You’ll be surprised what you can find at Williams Sonoma, Home Goods, and even your favorite local shops. Check out this post on where to splurge and where to save in your entertaining arsenal.
Most importantly, remember what Easter represents. It’s a special occasion and a time of renewal. Honor the season with a special blessing and a few minutes for everyone to share what they’re thankful for.
If you’re craving more tips, check out this one-week-out party planning checklist and my five steps to a near-flawless dinner party. Happy (early) Easter!
