Entertaining in Style

Tray Chic

Tray Chic

I love trays and you can never have enough of them! I use trays for entertaining, on my bath counter, on my bedside table or even at my desk to eat a salad for lunch. Having a beautiful tray adds elegance to any space and this one inspired by a European Rococo style also would make a great gift. Read more about this project

Queen for a Day

By Susie Coelho

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Read Susie's Bio.

I remember several occasions when I'd wake up on Mother's Day and find my kids had created a sumptuous breakfast of burnt pancakes, scrambled eggs with shells, and watered down coffee. I loved it! I would always be moved by the fact that they took the time to do something special for me. And when they'd bring it all up to my bed on a breakfast tray, I truly felt like a queen for the day.

With Mother's Day just around the corner, I wanted to create a project that would combine beauty with functionality. This year, take things up a notch and give mom and extra stylish breakfast in bed.

The recipe I am including for this month is very simple and does not involve any cooking, cracking, or burning. With the busy lives most mothers lead today, substitute quantity for quality ingredients. Fresh, sweet strawberries and homemade whipped cream are a real treat that says she deserves the best.

The "Tray Project" (as I will call it) is based on a European Rococo design that will add a touch of chic elegance to the entire presentation. Nothing says "royalty" like Rococo!

Simply add fresh cut flowers in a small vase, and I assure you, she'll be smiling from ear to ear.

Now let me expound for just a moment on the styling wonders of the tray. Trays are an entertainer's best friend. They are excellent and versatile accessories for entertaining. You can use them all over the house, indoors and out.

I have a tray in my bedroom that holds my cream, perfumes and makeup. I have a tray next to my bathtub where I place toiletries and candles to create a "spa" experience. There's even a small tray next to my bedside table where I keep a small water pitcher and drinking glass. I use them as integral parts of my tabletop styling as well as layering tools for centerpieces.

So, besides making Mom feel like a queen on Mother's Day, you can also present her with an entertaining tool she can keep and use over and over again! And she will love you even if you burn the toast!

Featured Recipe

Strawberries and Cream with Wafer Cookies

For an easy, delicious strawberry dessert that Mom is sure to love, simply slice fresh strawberries, place in a plastic wine glass and top with fresh whipped cream and a wafer cookie.

If the strawberries need some extra sweetening, sprinkle with a bit of white sugar before adding to the glass.