How to Host the perfect Spring Lunch
If there's anyone who knows how to style a beautiful tablescape, it's Aaron Bourne, owner of Harold's Finishing Touches. Sitting on the corner of Hume and Bridge under the famous black and white awnings, Aaron's design institution is a tribute to the whimsical and stylish.
We asked for Aaron's advice on hosting the perfect spring lunch.
Published: September 2023
Written by Aaron Bourne
Photography: Morgan Smith
SPOIL YOUR GUESTS WITH LOVELY TOUCHES
Find beauty in the simple things. Whether it be beautiful embroidered napkins, or a fabulous linen tablecloth, the little extra touches make guests feel special.
Remember you don't have to use a tablecloth if you don't have one you like! A beautiful linen sheet can do a perfect job if you are wanting a particular colour or pattern and you can't find it in a cloth!
For a Spring table you could do beautiful flowers and blooms, but you can also do bowls of fruit, cuttings of herbs or potted spring bulbs for an outside-the-box creative tabletop.
PREP THE TABLE THE NIGHT BEFORE
Having a lot of the table set or prepped the night before helps minimise the stress of setting up on the day. Have the table cloth washed and organised, plates and cutlery gathered, and platters and serving bowls dug out from the cupboards. Anything to make the day easier and as stressfree as possible.
START WITH A CHEESE BOARD
People always seem to arrive hungry so have a cheeseboard or platter ready when guests arrive. It takes the pressure off if you're still cooking or prepping a meal and people can gather around a cheeseboard to start the conversations.
HAVE A SIGNATURE COCKTAIL OR DRINK
For a little fun, create or try a signature drink or cocktail for the day. Something citrusy and fresh for a spring party with a beautiful gin sounds delicious to me!
OUTSOURCE AND SHARE THE LOAD
Sometimes it can be overwhelming to throw a party and cater for all your guests. It's totally OK to share the load and ask friends to bring their favourite dish or drink. I find you always end up learning a new meal or trying something you wouldn't normally eat so it's always a great option so you don't get too overwhelmed.
OVER-CATER!
There is nothing worse than running out of food, so be sure to over-cater! It's always lovely
HAVE A WET WEATHER OPTION!
Spring can be a crazy month for weather – sunny one day, cold and rainy the next! Always have a wet weather option to take the stress of a surprise "weather event" out of the day.
Looking for a Spring Playlist? We’ve complied a vibey, somewhat eclectic mix of songs to improve any Spring party: search for The Field Guide on Spotify.
