Kathy McGee shares some ideas for entertaining, Texas-style. She puts two damask tablecloths together, disguising the area where they meet with cowhide (figure A). You could also use a third tablecloth to hide the seam -- just anything that adds interest, texture and layer to the table and makes a bold statement.
For the centerpieces you need something tall. McGee uses an antique column base that she found at a flea market and stuffs a couple of antlers in its center (figure B). A number of items that you have around your house -- even twigs from the yard -- could be used to give your centerpiece a sense of drama and height.
McGee suggests placing plates on the table first (figure C) to help give you an idea of the overall shape and balance. Then work outward with the flatware.
For a unique look, Kathy used spurs (figure D) for her napkin rings. Try to use something that your guests won't expect.
The best way to add instant drama to your table is with candles. Try to vary the candle heights: place smaller tapered candles in bud vases and put votives in napkin rings (figure E).
Use anything you love that's quirky and gets people's attention. If you don't have enough matching chairs, use different types. For an extra touch, add a pillow that carries out your table theme to each chair (figure F).
We at DIY believe all of the recipes from All in Good Taste are accurate and reliable, but since we have not tested them personally, we can claim no responsibility if the desired results are not achieved.
RESOURCES :
Skewer It!: 50 Recipes for Stylish Entertaining
Model: 0811828158
Author: Mary Corpening Barber
Chronicle Publishing Company
Website: www.chroniclebooks.com
Barbecues 101
Model: 076790673X
Author: Rick Rodgers
Broadway Books/Random House, Inc.
Website: www.randomhouse.com
B. Smith's Entertaining and Cooking For Friends
Model: 1579651615
Author: Barbara Smith
(1995)
Artisan Publishers
Muskogee, OK 74402
Phone: 918-682-8341
Fax: 918-682-1263
Email: info@artisanpublishers.com
Website: www.artisanpublishers.com
Texas The Beautiful Cookbook: Authentic Recipes From The Regions Of Texas
Model: 0002250357
Author: Patsy Swendson and June Hayes
(1995)
HarperCollins
New York, NY 10022
Phone: 212-207-7000
Fax: 212-207-7145
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