by Sarah Simmonds , The Crescent Turner , Whitstable
THELASTWORD
GUEST COLUMNIST :
A STYLISH , STRESS-FREE CHRISTMAS
by Sarah Simmonds , The Crescent Turner , Whitstable
IT ’ S THE TIME OF THE YEAR TO EAT , DRINK AND BE MERRY , BUT FOR THOSE OF US IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY , THE FESTIVE SEASON IS MAKE OR BREAK . WE PUT ALL THE HARD WORK IN BEHIND THE SCENES SO YOU DON ’ T HAVE TO .
At The Crescent Turner , we pride ourselves on hosting some of the most spectacular parties and events all year round set in a unique location with stunning sea views – be it weddings , anniversaries , birthdays , baby showers or just amazing celebrations when you want some extra special service .
Together with my team , we ’ re experienced in making wonderful lasting memories for our guests , none more so than at Christmas time .
So , with all our hospitality experience we ’ ve picked up lots of tricks of the trade and here are my top tips for hosting your own stylish and stress-free Christmas gathering – big or small …
Prep , prep , prep !
Things are going to get busy , and if you don ’ t get enough plates , bowls , glasses and cutlery in , your poor dishwasher will struggle to keep up . While it ’ s always best to cook things to order , prepare as much as you can ahead of time by par-boiling potatoes and slicing vegetables in advance . Enjoy a Chandon Garden Spritz on the side , served over ice with rosemary a dried orange . It ' s nothing short of naturally delicious .
Decorations
You don ’ t have to turn your restaurant or home into a Santa ’ s grotto , but a few fairy lights , some strategically placed tinsel , garden foliage , Christmas crackers and a great Christmas playlist is a sure-fire way to make sure that Christmas this year will be a success . Or like us , ask the experts - we love Jane at Graham Greener in the heart of Whitstable , her shop is full of creative delights ! Learn to make your own Christmas wreath with Jane and enjoy a Crescent Festive Afternoon Tea on the 3 December . This event will be hosted in our unique Tipi venue , located in our grounds with stunning coastal views .
Drinks
Whatever ’ s on your Christmas menu , be sure to pair it with the right wine . While a pinot noir may be the most popular partner for turkey , one of my favourites this year is from our local suppliers at the Simpsons Estate – Rabbit Hole Pinot Noir . Don ’ t stop with the wine list : get your bartenders / guests to come up with a special Christmas cocktail list to help get the party started . Santa ’ s Hat Martini , anyone ?
The food
The weeks leading up to Christmas are the perfect time to give your food a facelift by sprinkling a dusting of Christmassy magic over your dishes . Porridge ( which has never been more popular ) in the morning ? Why not add a festive twist by grating in some nutmeg or making your own limited-edition gingerbread & butter pudding . Our own smoked cauliflower and leek gratin , Parmesan and crispy leeks is definitely a must on our festive menu . Or why not escape the kitchen and treat a loved one to a festive afternoon with the stunning backdrop of Whitstable ’ s finest views . The Crescent Turner , cracking experiences with none of the washing up , is my kind of Christmas !
But most importantly , don ’ t forget us in those cold winter months .
When the fairy lights have been packed away , the last cracker has been pulled and there are no more turkey leftovers , why not indulge yourself in a well-deserved “ we did it !” moment and take time to visit us or any of your nearby restaurants / cafes / bars . Remember , your local businesses are not just for Christmas … We ' ve got a whole year of hospitality to offer you !
210