Occasions

Every occasion calls out for something extra, whether it's flowers you set on the table, foods to honor a special gathering, or the selection of music. For both hostess and guest, consideration of those around you is among the most important qualities for any enjoyable occasion. A smile and sense of humor are also essential, and before the canapés and night lighting a good hostess is ultimately defined by a welcoming and gracious demeanor. In Occasions, designer Kate Spade invites you into her world of easy, festive entertaining, where the emphasis is not on "the perfect meal" but on having "the perfect time." It's a world where laughter and conversation at dinner parties are encouraged and where spilled red wine on the couch is no reason to stop the music. As Kate says, "Making your guests feel at home is truly an art and it's one worth cultivating." Any occasion begins with preparation, and at the outset Kate describes such basic components as lighting (votive candles are a must); table linens, flatware, and glassware; flowers (trimmed short and tightly massed); even bedding for overnight or weekend guests. Party shopping lists, hors d'oeuvres and cocktail favorites, and dinner party menus are all included. An "Alphabet of Special Events," from baby showers to tailgate picnics, is both anecdotal and useful for would-be hostesses everywhere. Whether you entertain a lot or a little, and whether your style is casual or formal, Occasions, with more than 230 charming watercolor illustrations, is a handy and fresh approach to the subject, a book to be treasured today and over the years. Above all, at any gathering "hospitality makes for infectious fun."

New York Times bestselling author of The Nerdy Nummies Cookbook and beloved YouTube star Rosanna Pansino is back with a delicious and inspired new collection of recipes! In this book you will find more than 85 recipes for many of the holidays and special occasions that Rosanna Pansino’s family celebrates, such as Christmas, New Year’s, Valentine’s Day, birthdays, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and more. It will be your guide for years to come with fun, creative, and delicious ideas to make and share. This book has everything you’ll need to make a lasting impression. It’s also sprinkled with several recipes that are either gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy and celebrate all year round!

Raise a glass to the elegant past with this collection of drinks recipes inspired by the beloved historical drama. Cocktails were introduced in the drawing rooms of Downton Abbey in the 1920s, when US prohibition inspired the popularity of American-style bars and bartenders in Britain. This well-curated selection of recipes is organized by the rooms in the Abbey in which the drinks were served, and spans everyday sips to party drinks plus hangover helpers and more. In addition to classic concoctions like a Mint Julep, Prince of Wales Punch, and Ginger Beer, this collection features character-specific variations such as Downton Heir, Turkish Attaché, The Valet, and The Chauffeur. The recipes reflect drinks concocted and served upstairs and down, as well as libations from village fairs, cocktail parties, and restaurant menus typical of the time. The book also includes tips, historical trivia, and over forty color photographs featuring cocktails and cast members.

"Good Form for All Occasions: A Manual of Manners, Dress and Entertainment for Both Men and Women" by Florence Howe Hall was an essential event book that helped readers understand the etiquette and appropriate dress styles for a variety of occasions. Starting with casual time spent in the country, the book goes on to more complex and specific occasions like church weddings, balls, road trips, and more. Thanks to Hall, countless women were able to host and attend events while fitting in with the rules of society.