Enjoy a brunch � the fun way

Brunch get-togethers are not only entertaining in nature but also create an informal environment for the host because your guests can also help you around.

Brunch Entertaining
At a time when summers just around the corner, one can't resist the idea of a lazy summer brunch with friends and good food. Brunch parties are much easier for the host - this is one meal where you can get your guests to help the informal way.

What is a brunch

"Brunch" is breakfast and lunch combined - and often, the presumption is to prepare an elaborate meal. This is not true. In fact, you should focus on a simple, yet hearty meal with little or no fuss. Do your best to have a family affair with kids. Sundays are usually the best for a relaxing brunch, and you wouldn't want to leave your kids behind on a holiday. Try to ensure your guests arrive no later than 11 am.

This allows a lot of time for lounging around. Have some newspapers, magazines, board games and books available for those who are really keen to chill out. They really do set the mood for that lazy Sunday. This may sound silly, but I have to insist on keeping some cookbooks around for your guests - who knows maybe they'll be motivated to try a new dish for you!

Self-Service - the order of the day

Offer some self-service counters. This is a great opportunity for friends to mingle and chat. You don't need actual kitchen counters for this - use some extra tables set around the house. Play around with the furniture to make things more accessible and comfortable for your guests.

Juice Bar

Ensure you have ample glasses for this and different sizes too. You can offer ready-made juices, but do make the effort for fresh juice, it's well worth it.

Smoothies

Just combine some fresh fruits like strawberries, kiwi, melons or bananas, crushed ice, milk or yogurt in a blender and whiz!

Orange Juice

Don't make this in advance. Arrange the oranges in an attractive bowl and keep an electric juicer ready for your guests to squeeze out some fresh juice. Ensure a chopping board and sharp knife are kept handy.

Bread Counter

Arrange a wicker basket with as many varieties of bread you can find in the market. It looks attractive and you can purchase them a day before the party. To compliment your bread basket, offer cubes of butter, two-three types of cheese and an assortment of good-quality reserves/jam. For the cereals, offer everything from Froot Loops to whole-grain Muesli. Plain cornflakes are a must have for those who like to "dress" up their cereal with chopped dried fruits (figs, apricots, dates), nuts like almonds or walnut and chopped fresh fruits.

Knick-knacks

Good quality cocktail paper napkins are available in most grocers. Make sure you arrange a bundle at each counter. You can save the fabric napkins for the main buffet. Make cutlery bundles and place them in a basket at the buffet table - you can be casual and still be classy with your presentation.
For your menu

The following are my favou-rites, select a few, not all to compliment your existing menu or to make a full fledged menu

French Toast

Corn fritters
Quiche
Roasted vegetables with Couscous (wheat rava)
Assorted Salads
Pancakes, Crepes and Waffles Citrus Fruit Compotes
Fresh fruits with a ginger yogurt sauce
Pasta Dishes
Grilled Chicken/or Aubergine
Any of the mezzeh items would work as well Homemade muffins
Plain Coffee Cakes
Plain Victoria Sponge Cake with fresh cream and seasonal berries/fruit

The drinks

Don't forget to arrange tea and coffee. Again, use pretty teapots and tea cozy sets - all these knick-knacks
do make a difference. Purchase small dollies to be placed under your teacups set on the saucer. Sugar cubes look attractive. Don't forget your milk and cream. All should be offered separately so your guests can help themselves and you don't have to go through the trouble of asking.

Decoration

Use your own garden flowers or wild flowers on the table and counters - it's different and looks pretty. Fresh fruit baskets all around make attractive arrangements and suit the occasion.