My Summer Hosting Tips

Summer is my favourite excuse to gather friends and family together. I love keeping things simple, delicious seasonal food, a beautifully laid table and a relaxed atmosphere where everyone feels at home.

One of my go-to dishes at the moment is a fresh watermelon salad with creamy feta, olives and homegrown mint. It's light, colourful and the perfect partner to grilled tuna steak or fresh fish on the barbecue. Get creative with this one, because lots of ingredients compliment watermelon.

Being from Stoke-on-Trent, beautiful tableware is a must! My trusty Spode dinner set is a classic white that's stood the test of time and always comes out at around this time of year, although I'm currently loving the gorgeous green Morris & Co collection on their website, perfect for summer entertaining.

And finally, I never leave Waitrose without picking up their magazine. I always have a little flick through for seasonal recipes and entertaining inspiration, there are always so many gems to be had or made.

For me, summer hosting is all about keeping it effortless, making the most of fresh ingredients and creating everything simple but delicious!!!