Imagine being invited to dinner by the 19th-century Transcendentalist and author Henry David Thoreau at his self-built cabin on the edge of Walden Pond, surrounded by woodland. Thoreau was famous for living ‘in the wild’ for two years, two months and two days. At this dinner, you’d eat food gathered from nature and from Thoreau’s own veggie patch, roasted on an open fire or on top of a wood stove.
Around you would be the sights and sounds and aromas of the wild: fresh earth, birdcall, the lapping of water’s edge, wood-smoke, the movement of wind in the trees. Later, the stars in a clear night sky. A precious opportunity to savour and celebrate the wonder of nature. Fast-forward to the 21st century and, for most of us, life in a city. What could be a contemporary way of gathering people together and celebrating nature?
Say you’re in a season where it’s comfortable to eat outside and shade, if needed, is plentiful. Check the fire restrictions in your area regarding gas and electricity powered barbecues and, if your equipment conforms, cook outside. You could set a table (or buffet) decorated with bush greenery, or bunches of local flowers. Rather than single-use disposable plates and cups, use proper crockery and glasses: washable, re-usable and far classier.
What about the menu? The emphasis is on unfussy, easy and tasty. Anyone lucky to live near to a wine-producing region, consider going local for your wine. Check out if wineries offer 2-litre refills, as per the time-honoured tradition for many European small makers. Are there any ‘sustainable wine merchants’ in your area? Perhaps some of your guests have fresh produce they’ve grown and can contribute? The Aussie ‘bring a plate’ tradition is one that everybody is happy to fall in with. If you haven’t enough chairs and cutlery, borrow them.
Should you prefer to set up indoors, there’s so much you can do to bring nature inside. Foliage can be used to garnish mirrors, wall hangings, and doorframes. Make the most of natural light through your windows, or if this is tricky, aim for accent lighting: the warm glow of lamps and candles makes for a more flattering and convivial atmosphere (better for photos) than harsh overhead lighting which shows up every wrinkle and flaw!
Try to give yourself enough time to plan and prepare. The best ingredient for a happy gathering is a relaxed and unstressed host. Things don’t have to be perfect. You're aiming to be a conscious host, not a self-conscious one. Take a leaf out of Thoreau’s book!
