So often the pressures of Valentine's Day centers on romance and couples. Yet Mindy Wester, local stylist and influencer of @houseonoakhill, suggests a sophisticated dinner party for friends and couples alike. Here she gives us her advice and style choices for a truly fun and new way to celebrate the day of love.
Set among the sculptural olive trees at Queen Creek Olive Mill, and a golden sunset filtering through the canopy, Mindy set a farm table with what you might expect in the form of candles, dinnerware, and glasses. Yet the touches are not the standard pink and red of Valentine's. She says, 'While I love the traditional colors associated with Valentine’s Day, I always enjoy incorporating non-traditional colors into my designs.' Navy blue ribbons cascade down the back of bistro chairs and blue thistle peeks out amid the pale pink and cream-colored roses, this is what Mindy describes as the 'playful and unexpected' decor in her design.
Mindy herself has been hosting parties all of her adult life. Designing and creating tablescapes has become an art form for her. She describes herself as 'a home décor enthusiast'. She has no “formal” training other than online workshops and yet her passion and creative eye are clear. Sharing her passion is a mission too, she says, 'I hope to inspire others to get creative and discover the joy of designing.'
Her advice is both practical as it is beautiful and artful. As with any party or event, preparation is essential and lowers the stress on the day. Mindy encourages careful planning and says, 'The more you are able to plan and prepare ahead of time, the more enjoyable the actual party day will be.' Begin by mapping out a theme or color palette, then write down everything you will need in the form of décor, food, dishes, florals, and more. In addition, Mindy suggests doing an actual mock-up of your table before the big day. 'Once you’ve done all you can do, when the guests start arriving- go with the flow. Embrace the fun, enjoy the conversations, and if something is forgotten (because we are human after all)…laugh at the mishap and move on.' she says.
For our Valentine's dinner party, Mindy has created a tablescape that is designed to catch your eye with strings of faux pearls weaving in and out and a napkin folded into a rose for romance on a plate. However, it is nature itself that inspires much of Mindy's styling. Branches of the olive trees are tucked in among the candles and flowers. 'Since we were surrounded by beautiful olive trees, I added them to the faux greenery; they were the perfect touch. I always recommend mixing faux with real', Mindy advises. Mixing elements and textures are key as they provide 'interest and color'.
Mindy also believes in providing 'layers' to a dinner table in the form of various heights of glasses, chargers, pedestals, cake stands, and table runners in order to give visual appeal. Mindy also recommends a focal point at the table, 'Having a beautiful centerpiece ensures your table has a “center” that ties everything together. I’ve chosen a custom floral centerpiece by The Cottage Flowers & Gifts', which mingles a palette of blush with moody blues, soft white, with peeks of yellow.
For her guests, there is much to take in, and the impression is that a lot of thought and even expense has gone into the decor. Yet Mindy is adamant that the look can be achieved inexpensively so long as you get creative and resourceful. For example, she says, 'mixing faux florals (that can be used over and over again) will save you money over time.' Next, using nature itself 'such as flowers, stems, greenery, fruits, etc. will cost you nothing but add a sense of charm and beauty.' If you don't have enough of the same tableware or utensils, merely mix and match, something Mindy says she is known for. Mindy also suggests menus that go a long way, 'items that can feed larger groups at low cost like pasta, rice dishes, salads, soups, and breads.' Finally, by asking guests to 'bring their favorite dessert or beverage is completely acceptable and will help out immensely' both with time and cost.
The atmosphere created here is inviting, joyful, and puts partygoers at ease. Mindy says that her goal is to make everyone feel immediately welcomed as they arrive. The Queen Creek Olive Mill's very own Sparkling Raspberry and Peach wine are opened and poured out as an instant gesture that each guest can relax and settle in. To save some cooking time try ordering some appetizers like the Olive Mill's delicious Antipasto Board or their Bruschetta Dolce which can be ordered in advance and picked up to go. For the meal itself, Mindy recommends a pasta dish as a delicious and proven favorite. 'Pasta is my go-to when feeding the masses. A large salad is also easy and can be catered to a specific occasion. For Valentine’s Day consider an elevated pasta menu with Vodka cream sauce or marsala wine sauce paired with a spinach salad topped with heart-shaped strawberries or bacon roses.'
Ultimately, Mindy gives you a dinner party that is 'elevated yet welcoming... elegant yet achievable'. As Mindy says: 'It’s the little things that always get me and it’s the little things that will make an impression on your guests as well.'
'It’s the little things that always get me and it’s the little things that will make an impression on your guests as well.'