Entertaining With Style: A Mexican Soiree and My Childhood

I like to entertain and hosting a party always get me excited. I spend almost the same amount of time cooking as I do in laying out my table:) I grew up in a home where we always had people over. My parents, even if I say so myself were the perfect hosts :) My mom hosted innumerable parties! Our home was a popular hangout for our friends and family! The lack of Pinterest and fancy magazines did not deter my mom from creating exotic dishes and dressing up the dining table :) While I appreciated all the effort that she put into it, I have to admit that, I took it all for granted. I was not the "perfect daughter" who actively helped out my mom. I did what I was told to do but nothing more :) Today, as I look back, and fuss over the table layout in my home, I can't help but smile :) 
Times have changed. I am all grown up now and live thousands of miles away. However, surprisingly I am becoming more and more like my mother!  As for the food, my Mom is the one who is passionate about cooking. She is the gourmet chef in the family. I simply get by :)

One thing I adore is a beautiful layout for a party. This Mexican soiree featured in Style Me Pretty looks dreamy!  It is my kind of party :)

 

Images: via

Entertaining with a splash of color

I am a huge fan of Michael Chiarello's living Napa Style and visit his website constantly. Here are my recent favorite picks. These classy, bright and functional pieces are perfect for entertaining. Its so hard to pick the one I like best, as they are all simply stunning. For more home decor and entertaining ideas do visit Napa Style and be prepared to be swept away!!

Pictures courtesy : www.napastyle.com

The Year ahead..

The holidays are long gone but I can't help reminiscing.....another ten months is a long time to wait !! However for now these images from the my Christmas lunch make me smile. The New Year comes with new dreams, challenges, its own high and lows but I am ready for it. The holidays were a great end to 2009 and a lovely start to 2010. The excitement continues as I wait for another lovely holiday season this year.