Memorial Weekend! The official unofficial start to the summer. The beginning of the Summer Entertaining season! Recipes inspired by the garden and farmers market finds, neighborhood block parties and sunset garden gatherings.

In the media Summer is touted as the season of slowing down, sipping lemonade on the porch and reading at the beach. However to me it always seems to be a whirlwind of activity – every weekend on the calendar is filled with parties, road trips and adventures to make the most of the weather. I am not sure about you, but I wouldn’t have it any other way! So let’s get the fun started with 3 tips to kick off your summer entertaining season!

3 Tips to Kickoff Your Summer Entertaining Season

#1 :: Have a Signature Cocktail. 

Having a go-to drink makes entertaining easy. You are sure to always have everything on hand if you simply restock when ingredients get low after a party, guests love trying new cocktails and really, who doesn’t love saying “It’s my signature cocktail”! A few of my favorites… The Paloma Cocktail, The Cilantro Margarita or a Fresh Squeezed Lime + Grapefruit Cocktail.

#2 :: Plant an Herb Garden.

Fresh herbs are the key to making summer recipes taste their best. What could be more fresh than picking herbs right from your garden or patio container? Try creating an herb garden from seed or find out how easy it is to start a small space garden.

#3 :: Find Recipes That Save You Time But Look Great!

Yes, making everything from scratch is a home-cooks dream but for most of us busy women, it just can’t happen every time we entertain. Find a few recipes that incorporate time saving kitchen hacks then spend a few extra minutes creating a pretty table to wow your guests. Start with Homemade Whipped cream over store bought mini Shortcake with strawberries, Sesame Chicken Skewers or Chilled Mint and Pea soup.

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And, if you are looking for even more ways to celebrate everyday check out An Appealing Plan the book.

Call it a trend or a return to the past, but I believe we are bringing back entertaining at home, lingering over a table after a lovingly prepared meal with friends. It has been a way of life and passion of mine my entire adult life, and I am thrilled to be able to invite you on this journey with me through a year of celebrating every day. Filled with recipes, tablescapes, floral inspiration and seasonal entertaining ideas An Appealing Plan :: A Year of Everyday Celebrations, is a dream come true for me a true honor to be able to share it with you. To learn more about An Appealing Plan :: A Year of Everyday Celebrations here. And of course, share how you are celebrating everyday.