Long lunches, beautiful tables and a little French inspiration. Your guide to entertaining in style this summer.
There's something about summer that makes us want to bring everyone together. Perhaps it's the longer evenings, the sunshine lingering past dinner, or simply having an excuse to invite a few friends around.
The best gatherings aren't necessarily the most elaborate. They're the ones where the conversation flows, everyone feels welcome and nobody is in a hurry to leave.
From long lunches to evening apéritifs, here are a few of our favourite summer entertaining ideas.
The Long Summer Lunch
In France, lunch is rarely something to rush. It's an occasion to linger over good food, enjoy another glass of wine and spend a little longer at the table than planned.
For a beautiful summer table, start with a linen tablecloth, your favourite glassware and fresh seasonal flowers. A bowl of lemons or a few sprigs of rosemary can make a lovely centrepiece.
Our hosting tip: Set the table the evening before, leaving more time to enjoy your guests.
What to wear: A French linen dress or relaxed linen separates, paired with beautiful sandals and your favourite jewellery.
An Afternoon in the Garden
Sometimes the loveliest gatherings begin with a simple message: Come over for a drink?
Think colourful cushions, a little background music and platters of fresh, seasonal food that guests can help themselves to.
A Summer Favourite: Peach, Burrata & Basil Salad
Sweet peaches and creamy burrata make a delicious combination for warm afternoons.
Serves 4 | Preparation: 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 3 ripe peaches, sliced
- 2 balls of burrata
- 2 handfuls of rocket
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
- Sea salt and black pepper
Method
Arrange the rocket and peaches on a platter. Tear the burrata over the top, scatter with basil and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Season and serve with crusty bread.
Bon appétit!
What to wear: A colourful printed dress, lightweight kaftan or relaxed blouse with your favourite Bengajean®.
Apéritif Hour: When the Sun Goes Down
The French tradition of l'apéritif is one we're very happy to embrace. A drink, something delicious to nibble on and good conversation as the sun begins to set.
Light a few candles, put on your favourite playlist and serve a simple selection of cheeses, olives and seasonal fruit.
Our hosting tip: Prepare a drinks station with glasses, ice, sparkling water and garnishes so guests can help themselves.
What to wear: A beautiful midi dress, coordinating separates or tailored trousers with an elegant top. Add statement jewellery for a little evening glamour.
The Joy of Being Together
When we think back on our favourite summer memories, it's rarely the perfectly folded napkins we remember.
It's the laughter around the table, the stories shared over another glass and those wonderful afternoons that turn into evenings.
So invite your favourite people over, wear something you love and enjoy every moment.
À votre santé!
