10 Takes on Trays

Trays... I have a thing for them.

Every hostess needs one. Or two.

Or a collection.

Here's 10 picks I love.

Some I want. Some I already have.

Because I'm all about "attainable" entertaining...

 these are all priced under $50

Irresistibly sweet 

If I knew how to  bake... (which I don't) I can see 

hand baked pastries, confections, and cupcakes.

Mud Pie $34.00

Understated elegance always catches my eye. 

I'm thinking perfectly placed cucumber sandwiches.

Terrain $28

Bit of a Moroccan look here. I like.

Crusty bread & an array of bold cheeses.

Works for me.

Pier 1 Imports $36

Vintage appeal. Have it. Adore it.

But don't use it in the kitchen.

 On my bathroom counter with apothecary jars filled with everyday essentials. I makes me happy everyday.

Pier 1 Imports $31

Getting Personal. 

Etsy $30

Monogrammed Tiny Trays.

Bought several sets of these for gifts. 

And of course, one for me!

Impressive packaging. 

Impressive gift for the price.

Layla Grayce $15 Set of Two

Talk about old world charm. 

Ordered this as a gift for my daughter.

Makes a statement where ever it sits. 

Etsy $48

OK, it's a basket, but I love the versatility of it. 

I'm thinking simple here... 

Salsa & chips. Cheese & crackers. 

Pretty way to stash napkins & silverware on a buffet.

Crate & Barrel $40

Pretty. Practical. Have it.

This one has served me well 

a million times and a million ways.

French Bull $25

A tray for all seasons.

Fall & Winter... coffee, hot chocolate, spiced cider.

Summer... lemonade, iced tea, cocktails.

Want this.

Etsy $49

A "Real" Hip Hostess Giveaway

Stunning tablescapes, beautiful buffets, dazzling desserts and to die for florals, are all come to mind when we hear the word: entertaining or party or hostess. We've all seen the pictures, in magazines, on TV and blogs. It's all so lovely, so elegant and so impressive. But unless you're Martha or an event planner, it's also probably perfectly unattainable.

We drive ourselves crazy aspiring to perfection, and in the process decide it's just not worth it.We all have our list of excuses... I don't have nice dishes, the carpet is dirty, I'm not a good cook, I'm just too busy. It's all just too intimidating right? But what being a Hip Hostess really means is opening our hearts and our homes and making a connection with all the family and friends we cherish.

Enter my dear friend, and real life Hip Hostess,

Sandy Coughlin.

I first met Sandy a few years ago when I came across her blog Reluctant Entertainer. I was immediately drawn to her! Her casual and heartwarming approach to entertaining really hit home with me. Now she has opened the door to real entertaining for real women with her new book.

"The Reluctant Entertainer"

Don't you just adore the cover? It's a perfect reflection of Sandy's understated elegance!

Taking "complicated and stressful" out of entertaining, her book guides us through all the elements of hostessing with inviting photos and recipes for serving up simple dishes, tips on easy meal planning, fun ways to engage your guests, even how to stock your pantry! All the while keeping it gracious and simple. Like I said...real life at home entertaining for real women.

Now for The Giveaway:

One of our lucky readers will be receiving a copy of "The Reluctant Entertainer" along with the pretty pink apron Sandy is wearing above. Our Pink Sorbet Aprons have been discontinued but we've saved the very last one just for this perfect hostess giveaway!

Here's how to enter:

• Leave a comment telling us why you would like to win. Are you a Reluctant Entertainer or do you know someone who is?

• For extra entries: Tweet this Giveaway on Twitter including @TheHipHostess and/or post on your blog and please leave a separate comment telling us you did.

• Giveaway ends Friday August 20th

• Be sure to include an email address if it's not on your profile.

Now if you just can't wait to get your hands on this Sandy's book no worries, you can buy it and even get a signed copy HERE.

Good Luck Ladies!