Lela Rose is known for her brand of whimsical elegance—but to those who are close to the Dallas, Texas native, she is also revered as a formidable hostess. That quality shines through in “Prêt-a-Party: Great Ideas for Good Times and Creative Entertaining,” Rose’s chic new manifesto to parties and entertaining that is being published by Rizzoli New York on Sept.29.
“I have long loved entertaining and find that the planning process is the most inspiring part of throwing any party,” Rose told CFDA.com. “I wanted to be able to share these ideas of how to entertain by using creativity and one idea as a central theme, similar to the way I approach designing a collection.”
Creativity—the operative word here. Rose has no qualms about thinking outside the proverbial box and pushing the envelope for a special fête. Take, for example, the time she planned a birthday party for a friend on a subway platform, serving margaritas in Ball Jars wrapped in brown paper bags. The surprise moment came when her unsuspecting friend stepped off the train and right into the party.
The book captures several such curated parties, dinners, picnics and more, including a Couples’ Cook-off replete with prizes to a Tea-quila Tea Party with a twist. “I think my style is a mix of high and low, whimsical, and overall fun,” Rose said. “I find there is no reason to entertain if it isn’t going to be fun.”
Along with inspiring photography, the CFDA Member provides ample tips for decoration alongside recipes for cocktails and key dishes. Her personal favorites include her husband Brandon’s Margarita— “a go-to drink” that “works for any time of year, any type of occasion, and can have all kinds of additions added to tailor it to the party you are having. I love any recipe that can be so adaptable.”
Also in the running is Rose’s biscotti recipe which she often serves as a starter to dessert, a give-away, or an addition to other sweet treats. “I pretty much always have biscotti on hand as we all love to eat it and it is the best dessert in a pinch,” she explained.
Naturally, her fashion background plays into her entertaining philosophy. “I have long loved the idea of dressing yourself and your table and think there is nothing more chic than matching your drink to your dress,” she said. “I love to figure out ways to entertain where everything is inspired by one idea; be it a color, an interesting vegetable, or an outfit you want to wear. I have planned several parties where I start with something I want to wear and go from there.”
For Rose, there are three must-have ingredients that make for a successful celebration: “A specialty cocktail; good people and good vibes, and a smiling host or hostess who is stress free.”