You know those girls who are just great at everything? When it comes to design, that girl is Sarah Sherman Samuel. She’s the editor of her own lifestyle blog, an insanely talented interior designer, and the curator of an online home decor shop. We first fell in love with Sarah through the bright and airy, midcentury aesthetic on her Instagram feed, where she documents her projects, travels, and family life. So we jumped at the chance to catch up with her at her Los Angeles home as she whipped up a California-casual dinner party inspired by springtime greenery and seasonal produce. Scroll down to see what Sarah’s cooking and her secret to a great dinner party.
What entertaining rule do you rarely break?
Prep beforehand! Do as many things as you can the day before, so on the day of the party, you can relax and have fun.
What’s your signature entertaining dish?
It might not be considered a dish, but I always have a fully stocked cheese plate.
What’s your must-have entertaining tool?
Wooden cheeseboards or serving boards.
What items are always in your refrigerator?
La Croix, and more La Croix.
A peek at the outdoor dining space in Sarah’s backyard. We love how she mixes up seating with rustic, wooden benches and wicker cobra chairs.
What scares you about entertaining?
Nothing! Having close friends over should always be lighthearted and fun. I try not to take anything too seriously, so that I can truly enjoy the moment.
What’s your secret to a great dinner party?
Go with the flow and use the energy of your guests as the compass to follow. Don’t try to force a strict timeline or unrealistic expectations, but let the night roll out naturally.
The taste you’re always craving?
Anything spicy and sweet.
What’s your current favorite color palette for parties?
Black and white is always classic, and I like to warm it up with natural tones and accents of fresh greenery.
A grilled whole chicken serves as a mouth-watering centerpiece and is easy to share among guests.
Your standard hostess outfit:
A long, flowy dress is perfect. It’s comfortable and both dressed up and casual at the same time.
When are we not in the mood for roasted brussel sprouts?! Sarah added nuts to her recipe for an extra salty flavor.
The perfect dinner party playlist includes:
Dolly Parton.
Who are your dream dinner guests?
Just fill a table with my close friends, please!
Check out more sweet potato-inspired recipes here.
Your entertaining style in 5 words or less:
Relaxed, thoughtful, easy, intimate, playful.
