Some of the best summer gatherings aren't planned weeks in advance. They're the result of a text that says, “Come over after the beach,” an impromptu barbecue or an evening that simply unfolds into something memorable.

For Elizabeth Blankendal, owner of Eettafel and Demco Florist, entertaining doesn't have to be elaborate to feel special. In fact, she believes the secret to hosting with confidence is keeping things simple, embracing shortcuts where they make sense and focusing on the details that make people feel welcome.

Before thinking about the menu, Ms Blankendal’s priority is creating a home that feels inviting.

“The first thing I do is make sure the house feels welcoming. It certainly doesn't have to be perfect, but I'll quickly tidy up, sweep the floors, open the windows and doors to let the fresh air in, and light a beautiful candle.”

Fresh flowers are another must, although they don't always come from a florist.

“I'll either pick up a few fresh flowers from Demco or simply clip a few bougainvillea stems and pieces of foliage from my garden. Then I'll put on a great playlist. It's amazing how those simple things instantly make a home feel inviting and create a relaxed atmosphere for guests.”

She believes a handful of quality staples can turn a last-minute invitation into an effortless gathering.

Her essentials include a chilled bottle of Champagne or rosé, burrata, fresh herbs from the garden, the ingredients for a simple charcuterie board — including a good Brie, salami and quality fig or onion jam — and a beautiful cut of steak ready for the grill.

“With those on hand, I can usually pull together something delicious without much notice.”

When time is short, Ms Blankendal focuses on dishes that deliver maximum flavour with minimal effort.

Her ideal starter is creamy burrata served with local heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil from the garden, olive oil and warm sourdough or focaccia.

For the main course, she keeps things seasonal and uncomplicated.

“I love a beautifully grilled steak with fresh summer side salads such as roasted corn, watermelon and feta salad, a simple leafy green salad with herbs from the garden and roasted baby potatoes.”

If time is especially tight, she's happy to lean on quality prepared foods.

“My other go-to is buying the pre-marinated grilling skewers from Soares. They can go straight on the grill.”

Dessert is equally unfussy.

“I'm actually not a big dessert person, so I'll either pick up something beautiful from a local bakery or serve vanilla ice cream or a refreshing fruit sorbet.”

And when it comes to drinks?

“I've been meaning to perfect a really good margarita — that's become my summer project — but when I'm entertaining at the last minute, I keep it simple. A bottle of chilled Champagne or a crisp rosé is always an easy go-to.

“I think the best summer entertaining is relaxed. Good ingredients, cooked simply, with fresh seasonal produce and plenty of time to actually enjoy your guests.”

And one of the biggest lessons she's learned is that buying a few things doesn't make you any less of a host.

“I'm very happy to buy a beautiful dessert, artisan bread or pre-marinated meats rather than making everything from scratch. I'd much rather spend that time enjoying my guests than being tied to the kitchen.”

Presentation, she adds, makes all the difference.

“Serve simple food beautifully, and it instantly feels special.”

She also encourages hosts to take advantage of the excellent prepared foods available locally.

“Most grocery stores have fantastic prepared salads, sides and charcuterie items these days, so sometimes I let them do some of the work. That way, I can simply focus on grilling a beautiful protein, usually steak or shrimp, which takes very little effort but always feels special.”

Keep it simple

When asked about the biggest mistake people make, Lizzy doesn't hesitate.

“Trying to do too much.”

She says the pressure to prepare elaborate menus often creates unnecessary stress.

“Choose a few dishes you know well, keep the menu simple and focus on enjoying your guests. The best hosts are present, not stuck in the kitchen.”

At the end of the day, she believes guests rarely remember every detail of the menu or table setting.

“The atmosphere. People certainly notice fresh flowers and a beautifully set table, but what they really remember is how they felt. I want my family and friends to leave with memories of laughing all evening, eating well and ultimately feeling relaxed.”

Her advice for anyone entertaining this summer is refreshingly simple.

“Don't overcomplicate it. Some of my favourite gatherings have been the most spontaneous. Keep the menu simple, use fresh seasonal ingredients, set a beautiful table and enjoy your guests. Hospitality isn't about perfection — it's about making people feel welcome. If you're relaxed, your guests will be, too.”