I wanted to share these two entertaining Fall 2019 books which focus on party planning from decorations to recipes. One is about big events and the other is more intimate and personal. Both are filled with amazing photography and stylish party picture.
Boston-based party and event planner extraordinaire Bryan Rafanelli ‘s new book A Great Party: Design the Perfect Celebration is filled with wonderful party photos and tips for putting on a great event. Rafanelli Events was behind Chelsea Clinton’s wedding, Obama Whitehouse Christmas Decorations as well as some state dinners, plus countless fundraising events and private weddings.
The Boston Public Library was the setting for this lucky couple’s wedding. Photo by Roey Yohai.
An outdoor wedding set at the barn-like Parrish Art Museum created a sense of eating at home with the family. Photo by Michael Blanchard.
A wall of votive candles was erected for this rehearsal dinner to bring twinkling candlelight from inside to outside. Photo by Allan Zapeda
Christmas at the White House during the Obama years featured 56 snowmen on the lawn representing the 56 US states and territories and the ceiling filled with paper snowflakes were made by local school children. Photo by Michael BlanchardThe book ends with a list of Rafanelli’s Rules for creating a memorable event. Among the several rules are: Think Big; Beauty in Numbers; and Tell a Story.
Whether you’re actually planning a big do or just a fan of gorgeous photos and luxurious party decorations, this book is a visual feast that would also make a great gift for the party planner in your life.
Blogger turned book author Ronda Carman has released her second book Entertaining at Home which features the homes and recipes from friends in the worlds of interior design, architecture, culinary arts and fashion.
Dinner with Amy Beth Cupp in her 250 year old former dairy barn. The chapter features recipes for Mulligatawny Soup and Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread.
Sunday Supper with Pam Kelly where the party is moved last minute indoors due to rain. Recipes include cioppino and wine pairings.
A Seaside Supper with Bethany McCann featuring a recipe for grilled peaches, goat cheese and candied pecan salad.
Soup on Sunday with Ronda Carmen. For years, Ronda has done a Soup on Sunday blog post with what soup’s on the menu for that day. Recipes include Oyster Stew.
Barbecue with Denise and Scott McGaha (also book jacket cover) features Scott’s grilling tips and recipes for Lemon Preserved Skillet Fried Chicken.
Lunch at the Ranch with Lynn Wyatt featuring recipes for Pico de Gallo and Guacamole.Where the Rafanelli book is big E ENTERTAINING, Ronda’s book brings it right into the home with intimate celebrations across the country. Gorgeous photography, table settings and yummy food make this book not only inspirational but also attainable.
I think these two entertaining Fall 2019 books are the perfect pairing for large and small celebrations with lots of amazing photography, great ideas and inspiration just in time for the holiday.
(Note, this post includes affiliate links. A small commission is paid, at no additional cost to the buyer, when purchases are made through the book title links. This helps support this blog.)
Hello Linda, Thanks for a glimpse into these books. Coffee-table books are no longer for me, as I have to pack as much reading as I can in my suitcases, and any book that weighs over a pound had better justify itself! I managed to carry back 43 books this year, but I can supplement them with some still-unread books I already have.
This and your recent post have shown that imaginative table settings make a marked difference. Right before I left Ohio, my mother made a special dinner, and used her wedding china and silver, creating a memorable occasion.
–Jim
Hi Jim – the books, they do pile up! Literally, I’ve got piles. And they are so freaking heavy! I love having dinner and pulling out my Mom’s china and silver – makes an occasion!
Hi Linda.. I loved seeing these inside peaks into these two books. Ronda lives here in Houston, as you know, and TODAY and TOMORROW, she is signing her book at Bering’s Hardware here. I am thinking of taking Mom there today… I think she would enjoy the trip, enjoy Berings and would enjoy meeting Ronda.
And can I just say how much I LOVE that wall of votives created by Brian? SO gorgeous
Yes on the votives – so simple and effective!
These look so inspiring for the home entertainer! We often set our table with our best china but new inspiration would give it a lift ! Thanks for sharing!
Both books have lots of ideas. I also use the china and silver when I can, but fun to see something new!
Linda, every time I visit your blog I not only learn something valuable, but also I get to see YOUR GORGEOUS BLOG! wow it’s beautiful, and I am so glad this resource is here for all to see. Well done.
Very inspiring. Love the cover of A Great Party! Wow!
You always have the best design photography collections. Such beautiful photography in these books and I had no idea that the Obama’s adored snowmen in this way. I do know that Michelle was a huge Christmas decor addict. Thanks for sharing these books.
Ooooh these are right up my alley! I’m always looking for new entertaining ideas and inspiration! These will go on my Christmas list, for sure!
The wall of candles….I had to go back and look at the picture over and over. I’m not sure what is drawing me to it, but I LOVE it! These books have so much beauty in them. Thank you for sharing!
I love what I am previewing in Rhonda’s book especially seeing my friend, Pam Kelly, beautiful table and foods! What a fabulous idea you have highlighting these wonderful books for your blog post. thank you for all your wonderful images too!