The season of excitement and fun is upon us – and the season of relaxing, balmy evenings. So this month I’m exploring new ways of entertaining, from breakfast on the veranda to teas and barbecues. I’m going to share some simple yet effective ways to prepare for a cost-effective tea party.

What’s the one thing that always makes your tea party a success? Mine is fresh flowers and mint. First I decorate the table and then I think of the food, because I believe we all eat with our eyes.

Put some extra effort into every event by using plain objects in the house to create exciting decorations, such as old boxes, plain crockery, old silver teapots, tealight holders, clear Christmas baubles, lace, fabric, buttons and paper, to name just a few. Use these objects to make decorations – like a dummy cake or painted teapots – that you can use over and over again, whenever anyone pops in for tea.

With the school holidays on our doorsteps, make every gathering with your family a special one. Time is precious. I read a quote that says, “Bread and water can so easily become toast and tea.” This sums up my attitude to life.