We adore summer at Cook & Waiter. Sun-drenched flavours bring fresh produce to peak perfection, the heady aromas of ripening stone fruits, sunny days drifting effortlessly into balmy evening events. It’s the countdown to festive entertaining, and a season of rituals shared by families, friends and professional connections.
Summer’s vibrancy energises everything we do: sourcing, cooking, styling, catering, entertaining and caring. As devoted curators of seasonal beauty, we’ve assembled a guide to holiday entertaining that is packed with festive entertaining ideas and inspiration. This collection will help home hosts and event planners achieve a simple yet stylish summer soiree. Be sure to read to the end for our must-try, in-house recipe: a spiced cherry glaze that will elevate your festive ham to chef-level status.
Festive Styling Ideas: Setting The Tone
Our stylist Jacob Tamepo draws festive season inspiration from summer’s lush palette and nature’s bounty, believing this approach keeps styling simple and seasonal. The result? Gatherings that feel effortless, natural, and prioritise eco-friendly choices.
Jacob is inspired by gingerbread browns, caramel and mocha tones, timeless emerald greens, and deep burgundy shades. He notes, “Rich textures like tartan and velvet add depth, while nature-inspired details – pinecones, dried florals, branches, eucalyptus, and rattan – bring everything back to an earthy, organic vibe.”
Centrepieces “au natural” are a favourite: vibrant fir tree branches, festive garlands of dried native florals and flowering gums, fresh garden greenery, and bowls brimming with deep red cherries and berries. Edible décor like gingerbread and candy cane adds a delightful, nostalgic touch.
“This festive season I’m loving styling that is leaning towards a nostalgic Christmas feel, there’s something special about mixing retro and vintage touches with family ornaments and sentimental pieces that instantly bring back memories.”
Sustainable style is top of mind, with retro memorabilia repurposed, pinecones and garden greenery foraged, and edible centrepieces crafted so guests can enjoy them. Such summer entertaining ideas align with the practices of reputable events suppliers, stylists, and caterers – including the Cook & Waiter team.
“Take a cue from the industry and embrace sustainability,” Jacob advises. “Use reusable ornaments, low waste wrapping like fabric or recycled paper, and thoughtful greenery for a more eco-conscious gathering.”
Seasonal Flavours & Summer Produce
Our produce market trips overflow with seasonal menu inspiration every summer. The colours, aromas, and ripeness of fresh fruits spark creativity in our menus – showcased in decadent desserts, starring in savoury dishes and sauces, and crushed into vibrant, thirst-quenching cocktails. Embracing what’s in season means every menu captures the essence of summer. Choose from summer’s market basket, when fruits and vegetables reach their peak, flavours shine and tastebuds come alive.
It also streamlines planning. You’ll find everything in abundance, avoiding the hunt for difficult or out-of-season ingredients. If you buy extra, creative ideas for using up surplus or overripe produce keeps sustainability front of mind.
Chef David Heath fondly recalls family summers: “I love this time of year when the markets overflow with peaches, nectarines, and cherries – it just feels like summer. In my family everyone has their favourite, and there’s always a bowl of fruit within reach. Any that are just past their best get popped into the freezer for Christmas cooking – they make the most beautiful glaze for our ham.”
What produce defines the festive season for you? Which fruits evoke nostalgia? Fill your table with these beauties and ritualise these shared moments for authentic and generous festive gatherings.
From Our Kitchen: Chef Dave’s Spiced Cherry Glaze Recipe
As the season of giving arrives, we’re delighted to share Chef Dave’s recipe for Spiced Cherry Glaze. If you’ve got an abundance of cherries, set some aside for this festive treat – and consider buying extra so there’s enough for everyone.
Spiced Cherry Glaze
Ingredients
- 500g cherries, pitted
- 80ml honey
- 60ml red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar
- 1tsp ground cinnamon
- ½tsp ground cloves
- 1tsp allspice
- 1tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1tbsp English mustard (or Dijon for a milder touch)
- Pinch of salt
Method
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Simmer for 10-15 minutes until thick and syrupy.
- Blend until smooth and strain for a glossy glaze.
- Brush generously over your ham during the final 30-40 minutes of roasting, basting every 10 minutes.
Cook & Waiter’s Seasonal Touch
Our seasonal entertaining guide ensures any festive gathering – whether with friends, family, colleagues, or clients – reflects the kind of simple styling and event catering a Sydney summer inspires, creating events guests truly swoon over. The Cook & Waiter ethos is about generosity, beauty, and ease. Each gathering feels connected and joyful, embracing shared tables, thoughtful touches, and seasonal inspiration. Remember, hosting doesn’t need to be complicated to feel special. Let our tips guide you for a warm, elevated celebration filled with summertime sentimentality.
Need help planning? If you’re looking to outsource, spend more time with your guests, and leave the details to the best, tell us about your vision and let’s get your party started.
