WORDS:: CHYKA KEEBAUGH

PHOTOS:: KARON PHOTOGRAPHY

So you know all about the luncheon launch, but I haven't filled you in on some of the details..and we all know it’s ALWAYS about the details.

I loved to be surprised when I turn up at an event, whether it be a lighting display that wows me, a unique flower arrangement or even something as simple as a delicious themed cocktail on arrival. Knowing that your host has really thought about making the night the best it can be makes you feel special, it just does! I knew that for my launch I wanted EVERYTHING! What I created were room-sized vignettes that represented my favorite chapters of my book, a visual journey through the seasons: with cocktails and canapes to match! So how did I do that? Well, where do I start.?

Stepping in from Autumn

With guests arriving, I set up my driveway and entrance inspired by a rustic autumnal scene. Magnolia wreaths adorned the windows and the porch, setting the scene and just making everything look so damn pretty!

With my front porch laden with pumpkins, autumn leaves and branches, we sipped on warming ginger gin & tonics and stood amongst a farm style grazing table. My book features a countryside table setting based on pumpkins, with a harvest including fresh vegetables, giant faux velvet mushrooms and blossoming baskets of dahlias.

I continued that harvest theme through with the hors d oeuvres of filo tartlets with spinach, pumpkin, feta and pine nuts and homemade artichoke dip. The outdoor was merely a glimpse of what can be found in the book and also a hint as to what would be found in my home for this special night.

A Cozy Winter’s Table

Winter nights should be full of warm, glowing dinners. Whether it be with friends or family - a table dressed in dark, earthy tones that hold a comforting meal, surrounded by grape toned orchids is an absolute winter treat.

Guests were invited to sip on an espresso martini as they lounged at a table layered with books, candles, orchids and a collection of golden-hued plates and cutlery. Winter should be all about luxury and comfort, think moody nights by the fire and an adjacent whiskey bar - yes, please!

Spring Cleaning, Chyka Style

Spring and lemons go hand in hand, and lemons and cleaning go hand in hand - so of course, my laundry had to be laden with lemons! We invited all our guests into the spring section of Chyka home by welcoming them with homemade lemonade and a lemon curd tartlet. Cleaning and organising throughout the seasons feature in my book, so this was the perfect night to show off how gorgeous the laundry can be.

Summertime In The Kitchen

One of my most favourite sections of my book is Summer. I am happiest when the sun is shining so setting up a beautiful pink rose inspired dessert table was such a dream. With a backdrop of roses, this is a visual feast that features all the sweet treats you can think of - from semi-naked cakes, chocolate coated pink strawberries, cupcakes, macaroons, cake pops, meringues…need I say more? This dessert buffet was visually stunning, and I love that it was the feature of my favourite room in the house - my kitchen!

TOMATOES ARE BEST EATEN IN SUMMER ON THE TERRACE

After you have had your fill of desserts, step outside into my summertime tomato terrace where outdoor gardening comes to life. Guests enjoyed tomato canapés, a bloody mary and time to relax at the green thumbs station. Surrounded by an assortment of herbs and tomato varieties, this scene reflected a section of the book that is full of delicious and interesting facts about one of our most versatile fruits.

The Outdoor Peruvian Party

Stepping beyond the terrace, we were treated to a colourful Peruvian garden. Now I love colour! So naturally, I had to have colour everywhere from the wait staff's floral headband to the flowers floating atop our pisco sours. This outdoor area was definitely the party section of the night, with guests gathering under the hanging festoon lights, we listened to the Spanish guitarist and relaxed in the colourful, bohemian set up. Layered with colourful rugs, wicker baskets and the odd llama we snacked on herbed lamb meatballs with Peruvian Green sauce and smokey grilled chicken skewers.

The launch party really was everything and more, speeches were made, books were signed, and so much fun was had. I wish I could do this every year! So many hands made this happen, and I refuse to skim over that with a simple credit. Later in the week, I will share with you all the amazing people that make an event like this go off with a bang!

PIN NOW, STYLE YOUR HOME LATER!

Credits: Food by The Big Group. Event Decor and Cutlery by The Design Depot Hire. Floral and Herbs by Flowers Vasette. Photography by Karon Photography. Videography by Moon & Back Co. Autumn Bench Seats from DANN Event Hire. Mineral and Still Water by San Pellegrino and Acqua Panna. Pumpkins and produce from Torello Farm. Llama Plush Decor from Urban Products.

Chyka Home Comes To Life : The Launch