Hosting tips - Spring and Easter entertaining ideas inspired by the season
While the holidays are often thought of as the hosting season (and we love it!), there’s something so welcoming about spring and summertime. We relish the longer days, barbecue dinners, and the comfort that comes with gathering around the fire for s’mores after a day by the pool. There’s also an abundance of flowers and new growth in the yard, so why not celebrate!
Whether you’re planning to host a fabulous Easter dinner or a springtime brunch to usher in the season, here are some tips to get you hosting ready so you can enjoy the moments with family and friends.
Welcoming entry
First impressions are always important so take a few minutes to tidy up your entry space. Sweep debris from the front porch, swop out your front door mat or wreath, and add a little spring to your entryway with things like flowers, greenery and/or a pillow. I love to pick elements that will work all season long (sorry, no bunnies here). A little goes a long way, and a welcoming entry will set the tone of your gathering. I loved having tulips in our entry at the beginning of spring, but I’ve also been loving this Audrey ficus paired with my new Anthropologie x Amber Interiors pillow. Live plants bring in energy and a bit of texture and color will soften up your space.
Fresh flowers
Y’all know by now I love having fresh flowers around the house, especially in the kitchen as its the heart of the home. They bring so much energy and happiness into a space! You do not need to buy a fancy bouquet (although there is a time and place). Lately, I’ve been getting beautiful stems from our local Trader Joes. Play around with seasonal flowers and making smaller arrangements or simply stick to one variety. I love using branches this time of year, but you can’t go wrong with a classic floral arrangement. These can easily double as your table centerpiece as well.
Plan around seasonal tastes
I don’t know about you, but appetizers are my favorite course! I always have a simple cheeseboard ready (add a few types along with fresh fruit, nuts, crackers, and honey). You can get really creative with these if you want! I also like to have something salty, like chips and dip, and veggies on hand. If you’re planning to host Easter brunch, I’d serve lots of fresh farmer’s market veggies. They add so much color to your table and you’ll get a taste of spring. We’ve been loving roasted heirloom carrots. I’ve also had my eye on this seasonal tomato tart recipe from Camille Styles. Have a guest bring or bake carrot cupcake for dessert, and voila! Meal planning done. In terms of buying and preparing food, we usually make the majority of the meal but may purchase a store-bought dessert or dip. Get some fool-proof recipes down and keep them on rotation, but also don’t be afraid to ask for help! Have guests bring side dishes or desserts so you can focus on the main event and hosting.
Roasted Rainbow Carrots
Simply slice into long strips of equal size, toss with olive and salt and pepper and roast for ~35-40 min at 350 degrees.
Serve festive drinks
Obviously, we’re into making fun drinks for special occasions! Since we came back from Mexico, I’ve been craving fresh fruit juices and more mocktails (that aren’t too sweet). I’ve also been loving carrot juice for the season and planning to concoct carrot-orange mimosas soon. I’ve got a few other recipes that would be fitting for spring soirees like my favorite lemon La Croix fizzie, this blood orange spritz or strawberry basil sparkler.
Special touches to fit your style
If the weather is nice, I’m all for hosting outdoors! What’s better than a backyard picnic?! I purchased these outdoor melanine plates last year and love them. The white goes with any place setting and they’re similar enough to my everyday plates that I can add to if needed. I put together a few different place settings for the spring season that are easy to recreate. I love using fresh, seasonal elements like flowers or fruit for a natural look. You don’t need a fancy place setting for a great gathering, but it does show guests you went the extra mile and is a fun way to pull a look or theme together. To me, it’s not about over-complicating it - it’s about create a small, special moment. It’s also nice to have things like a beverage tub, cheeseboards, and a few decorative/themed items to pull your party together. I’ve linked some favorites below for you!
I hope these hosting tips inspire you to tackle that spring cleaning and then celebrate it with your tribe! Make sure you take time to stop and smell those flowers, too. Enjoy, friends.
