When it comes to bright, show-stopping jewelry, Kendra Scott is our go-to girl… and since she happens to be Austin-based, we’re proud to be able to call her one of our most fashionable friends. There’s no question that Kendra knows a thing or two about putting together a killer outfit, but what you may not know is that she also throws one heck of a dinner party. So for our latest visit, the woman behind the brand welcomed us into her gorgeous Tarrytown home to show us how she hosts a springtime get together. Hearty Italian food, signature cocktails and those unmistakable jewel-tones made this party totally unforgettable, and totally Kendra. Plus, who wouldn’t want to go home with jewelry as a party favor?
The restaurant meal I’ll never forget:
My absolute favorite meal is at Giorgio Baldi in Santa Monica. They have this square sheet homemade pasta with a tomato basil sauce that is absolutely divine. Simple and delicious.
My must-have entertaining tool:
I have a professional grade ice machine that makes Sonic-style ice, which is perfect whether you’re serving ice tea or margaritas on the rocks. Since I entertain so frequently, I also have two dishwashers, and now that I have them I don’t know what I’d do without them!
The entertaining rule I rarely break:
A tip I learned from my grandma – it’s better to have too much than not enough. I always overbuy and overprepare food and drinks when I’m… I want people to feel comfortable going back for seconds and thirds. Plus, I certainly don’t mind the leftovers the next day!
What scares you about entertaining?
The only remotely scary thing about entertaining is the clean up after. That can be daunting, but it’s always well worth it!
The taste I’m always craving:
I absolutely love Italian food, and it never fails to satisfy guests. There’s something rich pastas paired with delicious wine that creates a comfortable, family-like atmosphere filled with laughter and good conversation.
Always in my refrigerator:
I always have fresh fruit on hand, especially strawberries, raspberries and grapes. I also stock lots of fresh veggies and herbs. I have an herb garden and lemon tree in my backyard, which is perfect when preparing a flavorful Italian meal.
The perfect dinner party playlist includes:
It varies with every party. I love choosing themes for my dinner parties and planning the food, attire, décor, and music accordingly. I recently hosted an Academy Awards dinner party, where everyone dressed in black tie, and I served dishes that have been served at past Oscars. That night, I played jazz music to go along with the elegant, red carpet theme.
- 1 scoop ice
- 1 oz vodka
- 1/2 oz st. germaine
- 3 oz lemonade
- juice of 1/2 lime
- prosecco
- rock candy
My standard hostess outfit:
I love to play dress up, which is part of the reason I love to host themed dinner parties. I challenge guests and myself to dress for the occasion, and jewelry is always a must!
My signature entertaining dish:
Chicken Marbella is my staple. I’ve prepared it quite a bit for dinner parties because it’s always safe… everyone loves it!
Chicken Marbella
In a large bowl, combine 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts (each one cut into 3 even pieces), add 2 tsp chopped garlic, 3 tsp dried oregano, salt & pepper, 1/2 cup red wine vinegar, 1/2 cup olive oil, 1/2 cup chopped pitted prunes, 1/2 cup chopped Italian green olives (no pits), 1/2 cup capers with a little of the caper juice, 6 bay leaves. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees, pour chicken and marinate into a shallow baking dish, sprinkle 1/3 cup brown sugar over chicken, and 1 cup dry white wine all around chicken.
My entertaining style in 5 words or less:
Creative, welcoming, fun-filled, delicious.
My dream dinner guests:
For me, dinner is all about spending time with your friends and great conversation. I’d love an opportunity to pick the brains of Nelson Mandela, Audrey Hepburn, Coco Chanel, Oscar de la Renta and Lady Bird Johnson.
Head over to Go Forth Creative to view more of Chelsea’s work.
