(page 24) NOVEMBER 2014
IN SEASON WITH VAL SAMPSON
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bio: Val Sampson, managing editor of sister publication Dainty Obsessions, brings her impeccable sense of style to 605 in this new column. Join Val each month as she shares her ideas for entertaining in season.
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THANKSGIVING HOSTING TIPS
INCLUDE HANDWRITTEN NAME CARDS.
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One of the best (or worst) parts of serving such a grand spread is dealing with the abundance of leftovers. Make sure to offer adorable takeout containers for guests to dish up a lunch or two to take home. They’ll thank you – and so will your fridge.
Few things are more heartening and inviting to your guests than seeing a place setting reserved exclusively for them. Get organic with nature’s fallen leaves and pen guest names in gold onto the foliage.
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SERVE APPETIZERS WHEN GUESTS ARRIVE.
Every household is different. Some serve the Thanksgiving meal early, while others chow later in the afternoon. No matter what time feasting begins, offer your guests something small to nibble on prior to the main event.
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DISPLAY FRESH FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS.
The combination of fragrant fresh floral mixed with aromas of lip-smacking grub makes for fantastic holiday memories. Not to mention they add a striking focal point on your dressed-up table.
HAVE TAKE-OUT CONTAINERS AVAILABLE.
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UTILIZE THE FAMILY SILVER.
Start a tradition this year by digging out and polishing your family silver (or any heirloom you’d like) prior to the event. Including special family treasures at your event not only adds a flair of sophistication to your table, it also makes company feel extra special to partake in an event that required such effort. Bonus: It also provides you and your guests a bondworthy talking point for the evening.