Veranda Entertaining

Very inspirational with beautiful pictures of beautiful table settings.

I pre-ordered this book a while ago and received it today. The cover is so pretty and just as shown on Amazon. The book contents however are proof or a reminder that you shouldn't judge a book by it's cover. Plenty of pretty pictures, but you won't find detailed information on putting together an event, recipes, or decorating. Each section has a paragraph giving an ideal sentiment for different stages of your soiree, such as: "The perfect dinner party always includes friends old and new as well as colleagues from diverse fields of interest and expertise." "Don't suppose everyone can just take care of himself or herself- check back in at some point during cocktails and during dinner conversation." Certainly not bad advice, but if you're planning to entertain on the level presented in the photographs and aren't already familiar with etiquette, you'll need to buy another book to explain it to you and another to show you how to do it. I expected more from from Veranda. The magazine is beautifully put together and contains well written, interesting articles. The book however, is printed on thick paper, but the quality of the print and photos is off, slightly blurry, I can't quite put my finger on it. Now I have to put it away because my eyes have begun to water from the printing fumes.

A beautiful, instant classic and staple reference for anyone who enjoys china, silver and setting the table. A must for modern party mavens of all ages. Much more than a lovely coffee table book, but an A to Z primer on elegant, thoughtful party planning of any scale. My newest favorite read. It truly makes you want to throw a party and pull out all your treasures! Sheer delight.

Silly. Insipid. Vacuous. Frivolous. Useless. The photography isn't even very informative. I was hoping, since the text leaves so little to be desired, that the photos would inspire useful ideas, but unless you you own a palatial estate, probably not. It's mostly pictures of lovely, (old school) ostentatious table scapes.There is no real substantive information one could actually use to entertain, just platitudes and generalities. "Mastering the art of the perfect place setting is about celebrating its imperfections." Or, "being a great entertainer and host is about having a well-stocked pantry and a bar at the ready. Being able to call upon a cadre of recipes that you can prepare in a flash will make everything much easier and less daunting." Gee, that's helpful!I was significantly underwhelmed by this book.

Satisfied.

Mostly photographs, some written material, no recipes.I was disappointed in the book.Great customer service.

Enjoyed reading

Veranda never is a letdown! Photography is perfection! Many lovely table settings to inspire readers. Nice coffee table book to enjoy any time.

Love this book. Beautiful photographs, and full of inspirational ideas.So lovely to sit and read.

I will use this for reference in the future

I liked this book, but I buy design books more because I like looking at beauty and not because I don't know how to set a table or how to entertain, but it covers various looks and ideas of how to entertain incl. of what is the most stylish way to invite (needless to say on paper per post, rather than just via email). Again, nothing groundbreaking, but a nice reminder

Exactly what i was expecting.

Beautiful book!