Entertaining Simple by Matthew Mead: Restore sanity to entertaining without sacrificing style

October 29, 2008 – “Entertaining serves as a soul-satisfying antidote to the workweek when we can take pleasure in creating an invitation, planning a guest list, arranging flowers, or cooking for those we care about,” says style editor and party planning expert Matthew Mead. In ENTERTAINING SIMPLE (Wiley Paperback; $24.95; September 29, 2008), Mead helps make the dream of party planning a reality by offering a wealth of advice and inspiration that will make the process enjoyable for any host or hostess.

The book begins with a run-down of the “Entertaining Simple Pantry” – the essential items everyone should have on hand for simple, laid-back entertaining at home. Mead explains how these basic items can be adapted for absolutely any event or theme, from a casual backyard brunch to a sophisticated dinner party. By using a few basic, versatile pieces in endless creative ways, he makes it possible for even the most budget- and space-conscious reader to create original, customized decor for each and every party.

Fans of Ina Garten and Michael Chiarello will love Mead’s simple, classic approach to entertaining. Filled with stylish inspiration, ENTERTAINING SIMPLE includes eight sample party ideas, including simple get-togethers like a Lazy Day Brunch, Summer Barbecue, or Family Dinner, as well as parties for a crowd including a Cocktail Party and a Holiday Open House. Each party concept is outlined in detail with advice on choosing a setting, creative decor and serving ideas, and a complete menu of delicious, accessible recipes. The book includes 56 recipes and more than 350 gorgeous full-color photos by Quentin Bacon that will inspire readers and illustrate each party idea.

Here is just a sampling of the deliciously simple recipes included:

 Strike the perfect salty/sweet balance with Brioche rounds with goat cheese and honey
 Green beans get a sophisticated twist in Proscuitto-wrapped green bean bundles
 Indulge your sweet tooth with a plateful of Pumpkin trifle
 Add a splash of class to cocktail hour with Pomegranate champagne cocktail

In addition, each recipe includes a tip to further simplify preparation. Supported by a helpful resource section, this essential guide includes advice on last-minute entertaining, stocking a home bar, linen and candle care and storage, caring for glassware and flatware, and even creative napkin folding. A comprehensive source guide helps readers locate everything from recipe ingredients and paper goods to linens, dinnerware, storage units, and more.

ENTERTAINING SIMPLE restores sanity to entertaining, without sacrificing style. After all, what’s the point in having friends and family over if you can’t enjoy their company?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Matthew Mead is a popular photo stylist, author, and producer whose work has appeared in magazines including Real Simple, InStyle Weddings, Good Housekeeping and Family Circle among others. He has also produced and styled images for Pottery Barn, Target, and Stonewall Kitchen. Mead got his start as a contributing editor for Mary Emmerling’s Country magazine and has since worked as the style editor for Country Home. A frequent contributor to The Discovery Channel, HGTV and iVillage.com, ENTERTAINING SIMPLE is his first at-home entertaining book. Visit his website at www.matthewmeadstyle.com/.