You’d be forgiven for drooling over your phone screen when scrolling through the Nectar and Stone Instagram feed. Dessert designer, stylist, and photographer Caroline Khoo shares her dazzling creations here with 386k other sweets fans, as well as in the pages of her mouthwatering new book, I’m Just Here for Dessert. So, when it comes to seeking inspiration and advice for your statement kitchen tea spread, who better to ask for help!
If you’re seeking a never-fail theme idea or a little guidance when it comes to celebrating with a statement spread without a styling bone in your body – keep reading!
Dessert designer, Caroline Khoo
According to Khoo: pink, gold, and burnt orange is a never-fail option when it comes to setting the tone of your spread. ‘’I love using this colour combination because it’s really feminine and elegant, and all three colours work really well together,’’ she says.
Turn a simple spread into a memorable look with the help of lots of flowers, different sized cake stands, a variety of fruits, and beautiful dessert name cards. All these items add layers, textures and balance to the setting.
Donuts are all the rage right now, but if you want to be ahead of the game when it comes to memorable dessert spreads, Khoo suggests keeping your eye out for abstract cakes. ‘’Abstract cakes will be the next big trend. Think cake artists using more of their own personality in the design while incorporating the colours the client has requested,’ she says.
Using edible flowers in drinks or flamingo straws is always going to impress and have guests commenting or talking. Drinks with pretty straws never hurt anyone!
Don’t let this creation go unseen! When it comes to showing off all your styling work, Khoo suggests ensuring you’re near some good light to take the photo, and don’t be afraid to get close the dessert to capture the details. ‘’Shoot from different angles as well to see what looks best,’’ she adds.
And because we love you! Here’s a sixth idea to set your kitchen tea spread apart from the rest — make Caroline Khoo’s Pink Sparkle!
(MAKES ONE 125 ML/4 FL OZ DRINK)
Fill three-quarters of a champagne flute or small glass with pink lemonade. Top up with your favourite champagne (or non-alcoholic sparkling drink) then garnish each glass with 4 fresh raspberries. If planning a party, this is a really easy cocktail to prepare ahead of time. Just add the champagne and raspberries right as your guests arrive.
Images and recipes from I’m Just Here For Dessert by Caroline Khoo (Murdoch Books RRP $39.99)
