Not many of us can say that we have the same domestic prowess as Martha Stewart, Giada De Laurentiis or Ina Garten. (And if you do, call the Food Network ASAP, because you need your own show!) They can whip up a four-course meal and set a table as easily as we boil water. We try to come close to achieving their skills, but often fall short of the finish line. That said, some women are just meant to be goddesses in the kitchen, while the rest of us can sit back and just enjoy being the guests.
However, if being the hostess with the mostest is on your agenda, it would be best not to compare your soufflé or crème brûlée with Garten’s. Instead, stick to the recipes you know how to make, and serve ’em up with style. As any chef can attest to, presentation is everything, so make sure that your simple dishes look as good as any of those difficult-to-pronounce French delicacies. With the right china set, table linens and centerpieces, your upcoming summer garden party will be the toast of the town…lots of wine also helps.