If your Instagram feed is also being flooded with bronze bodies, crystal blue waters, blood orange sunsets and fabulous food from Ibiza, Greece and the Italian coast, you may be feeling a little Euro envy! Janneke Coyle, of resin homewares brand Keep, shares her tips for sharing in some of that Mediterranean joy, right here at your dining table in Australia!
Here in chilly Victoria, I have to rely on my camera roll to catapult me back one year ago, to the time my family of five spent three months exploring Southern Italy and France. I have discovered the best way to hold onto those holiday feels is to adopt a little of the Mediterranean lifestyle into my everyday living, mostly via their approach to food and presentation. Their why, when, where, what and how is something we can all learn from.
European meals are a time for pause, connection and enjoyment. Often designed to be shared. Tasty little morsels. Quality condiments. Ample olive oil. Always presented on non-pretentious, well-loved serving dishes, perfect in their imperfections.
It is this mindset that inspires my collections. The desire to foster togetherness through celebration and meals. Uncomplicated presentation but always with consideration.
My top ‘ingredients’ for re-creating this relaxed, authentic, Mediterranean approach to entertaining:
- Always start with a freshly made aperitif – my go to is Negroni because it’s delicious and packs a punch. An aperitif is always accompanied by something savoury and salty, like Sicilian olives or crisps.
- A selection of quality bread varieties and a robust olive for soaking up.
- Grazing plates with a selection of cured meats or fish, pre-roasted and pickled vegetables.
- A protein of choice served with a basic green leaf salad and/or legumes.
- A selection of tasty cheese: my preference is something hard and bitey.
- Something sweet.
- Music: have a few playlists ready to go. I often look at what fashion stores are playing on Spotify. Venroy often have a fun selection.
- Scent: never underestimate the power of scent when creating an inviting atmosphere. I worked with a local alchemist on the Mornington Peninsula to create room fragrance blends that have both therapeutic benefits and smell amazing. Mystique is crafted specifically for vibe.
- Linen napkins go a long way. Nothing screams relaxed sophistication like beautiful linen.
- Relax, converse, slop food, spill drinks, laugh, be human, have fun.
Keep resin homewares are designed in Australia, with the intention to elevate your entertaining essentials and every day living.
