Southern Get-Togethers
A Guide to Hosting Unforgettable Gatherings—Plus Entertaining Inspiration, Tips, and 100+ Recipes
by Kelsey Barnard Clark
This title was previously available on NetGalley and is now archived.
Send NetGalley books directly to your Kindle or Kindle app
1
To read on a Kindle or Kindle app, please add kindle@netgalley.com as an approved email address to receive files in your Amazon account. Click here for step-by-step instructions.
2
Also find your Kindle email address within your Amazon account, and enter it here.
Pub Date Sep 17 2024 | Archive Date Sep 09 2024
Talking about this book? Use #SouthernGetTogethers #NetGalley. More hashtag tips!
Description
“A perfect guide for planning gatherings of any size; great for any collection.”—Library Journal, starred review
Call some friends, arrange some flowers, and whip up a quick bite. Let’s get the party started, y’all!
Chef Kelsey Barnard Clark catered her first wedding at age fifteen and has been hosting events ever since. In these pages, Kelsey distills her hard-earned party-planning wisdom into practical advice for newbie and experienced hosts alike: “I’ve made all the mistakes already, lived to tell the tale, and want to give you the benefit of my experience so you can stop worrying and start celebrating. This is a self-help book for throwing the damn party.”
With more than 100 crowd-pleasing recipes, this book has everything you need to do just that, demonstrating how easy it can be to host anything from a casual stop-by, low country boil, or BYO burger night to a bridal shower brunch, formal French dinner, or hunting season feast. No matter the event, Kelsey’s wide-ranging and accessible recipes make entertaining a joy, never a chore. Recipes include such gems as:
- NOLA Barbecue Shrimp
- Southern-Style Ramen
- KBC’s Smoked Brisket
- Zucchini Gratin
- White Sparkling Sangria
- Bananas Foster
- And many more Southern classics with a twist (and classics with a Southern twist) like Jambalaya, Hot Honey Chicken, Green Pickled Tomatoes, and Beignets
Helpful tips on tablescaping, flower arranging, menu planning, food buying, and more ensure you have the confidence and know-how to pull off a memorable celebration of any size. Brimming with beautiful food and lifestyle photography, Southern Get-Togethers is a must-have manual on Southern hospitality and a lively, delicious, all-around cookbook that’s calling for a space on your shelf.
TALENTED TOP CHEF: Kelsey has proven her unparalleled cooking chops time and again, from winning the title of Top Chef (and Fan Favorite!) to working in Michelin-starred kitchens in New York, running her own restaurant and catering company, and writing her first bestselling cookbook. A Food Network star and frequent media guest, Kelsey's cooking skills are indisputable, and her food is downright delicious. This book, filled with dishes Kelsey loves to cook for her family and friends, further proves that she is the Southern Martha Stewart.
MENUS FOR EVERY OCCASION: Recipes are organized by occasion, and the book provides full menus for every event, including homemade and store-bought items. BYO Burger Night offers recipes for three burger sauces and an orzo side salad, suggested store-bought and five-minute sides, and instructions for setting up the best-ever burger and milkshake bars. Paella Night provides recipes for Paella, Pan con Tomate, Flan de Leche, and Spanish Red Sangria. Southern Get-Togethers shows that entertaining doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. Everything you need to host an unforgettable evening is in these pages.
SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY EXPERTISE: This cookbook is packed with genuinely helpful advice for setting a table, planning a menu, ordering enough liquor for a party, arranging a flower centerpiece, being a gracious host and guest, cohosting with a friend, and more. Kelsey keeps it real with no-fuss entertaining tips that make it easy for anyone to host a get-together—whether a casual happy hour with girlfriends, a beachside BBQ for thirty people, or an intimate but impressive holiday feast.
RECIPE PHOTOS & MUCH MORE: Brimming with gorgeous photos of garden parties, cozy dinners, seaside boils, and Southern life, this is more than just a collection of recipes. You'll want to flip through this book and take inspiration from the beautiful imagery as much as you'll want to cook from it.
Perfect for:
- Home cooks who enjoy Southern food
- People who like to host casual gatherings, family parties, and other events
- Amateur hosts looking for tips, as well as experienced hosts looking for new and interesting recipes
- Followers of Kelsey on social media and TV and those who enjoyed her first cookbook
- Fans of Joanna Gaines, Ree Drummond, Reese Witherspoon's Whiskey in a Teacup, or Vivian Howard's Deep Run Roots
Available Editions
EDITION | Other Format |
ISBN | 9781797225654 |
PRICE | $35.00 (USD) |
PAGES | 288 |
Available on NetGalley
Featured Reviews
I absolutely loved the visuals in this book! The wallpapers for each part/section were stunning and all the food looked downright delicious. The grinder subs and hot honey chicken are both going on my recipe list. I also 100% need a table on a dock in my life now… I’ve been inspired! I really enjoy a cookbook that includes design and style ideas for the home and for events. It’s nice to have for every day and for when you want to do something fun and different!
What amazing tips! Some of my favorites include the party-ready closet, pantry, and bar. What a difference this would have made in my life all these years! Not to mention the table setup page with the list of what glassware, silverware, tableware, and linens will be used, so extremely helpful! The recipes are also very simple to follow yet will impress your guests around the table. I can’t wait to host my next dinner party with all of these instructions!
Southern Get Togethers had so many good tips for hosting. I live in the South and I am not great at hosting. I am going to buy this book so I can have it on hand to reference for my next get together.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“I’ve made all the mistakes already and I want to give you the benefit of my experience so you can stop worrying. Think of it as the self help guide to throwing the damn party! It’s the encouragement you need to open your door and welcome the fun in.”
I already added this book to my Amazon cart for September 9…..this is the most BEAUTIFUL book I have seen and I want it! I want to buy it for the coffee table, one for the kitchen, and one for everyone I know. It’s stunning! The pictures and the way it’s put together is incredible s It is absolutely chalked full of more than a hundred delicious looking meals, drinks, desserts, and page after page is full of beautiful pictures to show the items. She talks about how to set flowers in the vase just so, and has step by step for it. I loved that the author had such a heartfelt opening in the book to describe herself, her family, her heart for hosting, and her hope for others to do the same.
It’s her hope to help others gather together without the stress and worry and just enjoy the time with others having fun with great food and drinks. I love how she reminds the reader it’s not about the fancy stuff, it’s about being invited by you! Get. This. Book. I’d buy it for you if I could! Thank you so much @netgalley @kelseybarnardclark @chroniclebooks for this advanced copy, it was wonderful. #netgalley #kelseybarnardclark #chroniclebooks
Obsessed! This book is stunning and I will read, buy, obsess over anything Kelsey writes. I have her previous book and really enjoy the recipes, and these were just as simple and wonderful.
Southern Get Together focuses on hosting inspiration and tips.
The sections are
Getting Together: prep work, the logistics of a group gathering, and decorations.
Daytime Delights
All Day Bashes
Potlucks & Supper Clubs
Formal Affairs and Slow Food Socials
Each recipe has servings, ingredients, and directions with a picture for each recipe. The pictures are very bright and aesthetic. The hosting its were very helpful and in-depth.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Title: Southern Get-Togethers: A Guide to Hosting Unforgettable Gatherings
Author: Kelsey Barnard Clark
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Pub date: 9/10/2024
I’m drooling!
Once I finished this book, I was left trying to decide which recipe I want to master first and when can I share these recipes with my family and friends!
The recipes combined with all the entertaining tips have given me confidence to put all of it together without all of the stress.
This cookbook has advice on how to throw a southern style get-together wherever you are and over 100 mouth watering recipes. There are beautiful photos of the recipes along with some gorgeous tablescapes.
The recipes seem like anyone willing to try something new will be able to handle. No need to feel intimidated by all you learn from these pages.
Thank you #NetGalley and #ChronicleBooks for the opportunity to read this book.
I thought Southern Get-Togethers by Kelsey Barnard Clark was a visually stunning and authentic to the Southern experience. While I spent portions of my life in the South there are still culinary traditions that are totally foreign to me and I found that her cookbook was fantastic at making them easily accessible and understandable to this mostly-non-southerner. I absolutely loved that Kelsey took the time to explain the social aspect of Southern get togethers along with the culinary portion. While that might seem a bit strange or unnecessary to some, I can say that Southern get togethers are a whole other ballgame compared to what a lot of people are used to. God forbid you wear the wrong thing, bring the wrong thing, show up at the wrong time…Visually this book is perfection. The recipes themselves look amazing and I know for myself, I prefer cookbooks to have photos of what the recipes are supposed to look like when all is said and done. The family photos, decor how-to’s, and even just the page-by-page styling all remind me of the quintessential Southern palate. I’m transported back to my childhood when we’d visit my elderly relatives in the summer and eat the recipes presented in this book. I love that these recipes are authentic and relatively easy to recreate no matter where you live. I love that there’s a variety of Southern food showcased too. Not just the stereotypical fried food or BBQ a lot of people think of when they hear “Southern food.” The fact that Kelsey has picked dishes from pretty much every corner of the South really is commendable and will hopefully open people’s eyes up to a new variety of food. While a lot of these recipes are familiar to me there are quite a few that are brand new that I plan on making very soon! My husband is a New Yorker so most of these recipes will be completely new to him!
Souther Get-Togethers will definitely be my go-to hosting book. As a 30-something from the west coast who now lives in the Deep South I love that this book breaks down Southern hosting etiquette. The recipes are delicious, the photos are stunning and Kelsey’s tips are so helpful. This book would make a wonderful gift and would be perfect for a bride-to-be!
Love that this is not only full of amazing looking recipes but also gives some pointers on making it an inviting space to host. Will definitely se this as a source when hosting this summer!
"Southern Get-Togethers" is like having your own Southern party planner at your fingertips! Packed with delicious recipes, clever tips, and tons of inspiration, this book will help you host gatherings that your friends and family will rave about. Get ready to throw unforgettable parties with a touch of Southern charm!
This is the perfect new cookbook for anyone who loves to entertain, or aspires to do more entertaining. It's so inspirational, while also very practical -- kind of like shadowing a very creative, experienced hostess. The photographs are beautiful, and the recipes are all curated into themed parties -- like burger night, mezze night, street taco night, and steak night, to name just a few. The accent is on delicious traditional southern favorites, but always updated with a creative twist. The menus range from super simple (boards for a quick drop by drink) to formal and elaborate (fearless French dinner). I have not had a chance to cook anything yet, but the recipes are very clearly and well written, and it is obvious that everything has been tested enough to be tried and true. The author even includes lists of things like how much glassware you need. This would be a wonderful gift for a hostess or avid home cook, or a treat for yourself!
Loved this!
I vacationed in the Southern US as a kid a ton and these foods are so nostalgic.
Learned a lot of interesting preparations, having always been an eater. Also some more regional dishes I had never heard about.
Pictures were gorgeous!
Such a fun book! It is colorful and has some great pictures. She has ideas for all sorts of holidays and how to spruce them up so that you can take you hosting and parties to the next level!
I absolutely love this type of format for a cookbook. I enjoyed watching Kelsey Barnard Clark on Top Chef as well, so I was excited to pick this up. I like a book that will give a menu for a type of event, like a brunch or party. These recipes are accessible and delicious!
Learn how to throw an incredibly southern back yard party with this book! From flower arrangements, to tables scapes, etiquette, information and elevated classics. The imagery used throughout the book is beautiful and really fits the aesthetic of the book as a whole. There’s no way I’d keep this one on my bookshelf, it would be on display in the kitchen or even used as a coffee table book. I can’t wait to make some of these recipes.
Feel free follow my social media accounts, I will be sharing my review of this book prior to the publishing date as well as images of the recipes I made from it.
https://linktr.ee/britneybarlow
Thank you to Netgalley and Chronicle Books for sending me an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. My thoughts and opinions are 100% my own.
lovely photo essay that shone for its photography, styling and emphasis on the host/guest experience. I made the ham baguette it was
beautiful simple and tasty. I would have enjoyed some recipes that reminded me of the amazing food to be had in Savannah and Charleston in the
iconic markets, farmers markets and unexpected low key gourmet type venues. the gulf coast of Alabama delights and I am guessing the recipes are specific to the authors specific Alabama home city.
This is more a manual than cookbook. This KBC recipes includes the perfect gathering manual which includes food. The book takes the guessing out of putting together a successful gathering from the table scape, menu, conversation and cocktails. For those that imagine how to put together a successful gathering this is perfect. The recipes are exciting, elevated as well as chill and able to be put together successfully by most home cooks. The photos of the food, the recipes, as well as tips are perfect to put together a wonderful intimate or group gathering. Definitely recommend.
Thanks to KBC, the publisher and Netgalley.
A new party focused book full of hosting tips and recipes! The book is divided into different occasions with tips for creating a great get-together! This book was really pretty and well organized. I think it resonated a little less for me than a normal cookbook because I don't really host parties. However, for those that do, this would be an amazing book!
"Southern Get-Togethers" by Kelsey Barnard Clark is a delightful treasure trove of southern hospitality and culinary delights. Clark's expertise shines through in her meticulous guidance for hosting unforgettable gatherings. The NOLA Barbecue Shrimp and Oysters Rockefeller recipes are absolute showstoppers, embodying the essence of southern flavor. (I received an advance reader copy of this book, and all opinions are my own.) This book is a must-have for anyone looking to infuse their gatherings with warmth, flavor, and unforgettable memories.
Pros: I really enjoyed the author's first book Southern Grit, so I was excited to read this new book about hosting. The cover is so eye-catching and feels very true to what a southern get-together looks like! The photography throughout this book is fantastic--it is bright and inviting and serves as a guide to how to set a table and present the food. There are great hosting how-tos in this book with helpful checklists, charts, and explanations. I loved that a book about southern get-togethers included a (modern) manners section. I so appreciated that this book provided full menus for different gatherings and that the recipes appear to be accessible to cooks of all levels of experience. As I read I kept a list of the recipes I want to try, and I really wished I had a French ham and cheese baguette or animal house Chex mix to snack on while reading!
Cons: None that I can think of! (Well, except I'm not sure about the jambalaya recipe with shrimp in it because I prefer chicken and sausage jambalaya!)
Thank you to NetGalley and Chronicle Books for the opportunity to read this book!
This cookbook was what my grandma liked to call “the whole kitchen sink!” It was so well thoughtfully put together to include any type of life event get together whether it be as a host or a guest. Kelsey Barnard Clark, made southern cooking and hosting as easy as pie!
Onto the breakdown of the book though:
The photos were EXCELLENT, they captured the dishes perfectly, the table settings were gorgeous, and the thing I love the most in a good ‘ole cookbook is, honestly the flowers (I know kinda silly), but it’s so simple to fix your table up with a pop of something like flowers that if you mess that up then we have a problem! Barnard Clark, has the answer to that though with a step by step in the front, of all the dos and don’ts of hosting/being a guest and guess what? How to throw together a center piece of flowers is one of them!
Is this cookbook tastefully divided:
YES! The reader could definitely find a recipe for any get together whether it be a casual pop in, a potluck meal, or even a good ‘ole get together to watch the game.
The book was divided into 5 parts, 1 of those parts being how to throw together something for different occasions and all the P’s and Q’s you need to not only be a great host, but a respectful guest! The other 4 sections are food based on, daytime get togethers, all day affairs, potlucks/supper clubs, and formal affairs/ social gatherings.
Things I liked the most:
1. The do’s and don’t’s! - I have grown up in the south my whole life and the biggest rule my mom made us swear to follow were minding our P’s and Q’s (please and thank you’s). Bernard Clark really gained my whole hearted respect when she put this “trash” and “keep” concept for hosts and guests! Nothing like a stressed out snippy host or a wild guest to sour the night and she makes it possible to show people you can follow rules and still have all the fun!
2. The checklists! - I love nothing more than a checklist. Especially ones broken up the way Bernard Clark had hers. Very organized and there is even a shared hosting check list that had my heart swooning!
3. Pictures of all the food! - I think something that makes cookbooks stand out is the way they show off their recipes. It needs to look absolutely delicious to appeal to the reader, but also not so complicating looking that the reader skips over it with doubts in their head that they’d never be able to pull it off. This cookbook not only made my mouth water, but it made everything look like I could accomplish that, no problem!
Things I wish I had seen more of:
1. The time it takes to prepare and make. - As someone who cooks a lot I can kinda gauge how long things will take based on the ingredients and what the dish is. For those that don’t cook often though, this maybe the make or break they face when attempting some of these recipes. Some recipes require careful care to prepare and others not as much, but some readers may find it helpful to know a time if they are cooking something in a pinch.
Do I ever suggest attempting a recipe you have never done before in a rush? ABSOLUTELY NOT! My Mimi always said, “when you are in a hurry, stick with what you know and don’t get too fancy on little time.” I still live by this rule with my whole being, so if you want to attempt a meal from this cookbook, but are running short on time, my best suggestion would be to stick with what you know best and what you know people enjoy!
All in all this book was an easy 5 stars for me and I look forward to reading more from Kelsey Bernard Clark in the future! Now off to try some of these amazing recipes!
This is such a delightful cookbook that includes a lot of great recipes for different types of get-togethers. One of my favorite things it included was a chart at the beginning with how much wine and beer to purchase for different size parties. So helpful! The focus of this cookbook was on entertaining, though I am not sure how many people host those style of parties regularly (specifically the formal affairs section). The recipes that stood out to me, that I can’t wait to try, are: the Shortbread Crumble Banana Pudding, Za’atar Wings with Harissa Sauce, and that Cucumber Collins. Each group of recipes is separated by the type of party and includes a whole menu. Overall a great option for those that love to entertain.
Thank you NetGalley and Chronicle Books for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and Chronicle Books for the opportunity to review this ARC.
I found some great ideas for entertaining as well as some delicious recipes The book is well put together. The photographs bring the recipes and ideas alive.
If a gardening book, cookbook, or home decor book has the word “Southern“ in the title, I’m inclined to buy it. There is something about Southern charm and hospitality that always makes for a satisfying read. Such is the case in Southern Get-Togethers, A Guide to Hosting Unforgettable Gatherings by Kelsey Barnard Clark.
This book is divided into five sections: Getting Started, Daytime Delights, All-Day Bashes, Potlucks & Supper Clubs, and Formal Affairs & Slow Food Socials. The Getting Started section offers up a lot of helpful information on building your pantry, planning your menu , building your bar, setting up your flowers, and setting the table. Each of the remaining sections is divided into individual menus, with recipes carefully chosen to suit each. This makes party planning a breeze. The recipes run the gamut from super simple, to fairly complex, making this cookbook equally suitable to the novice cook as it is to the veteran.
The pictures are beautiful, and quite inviting. There are a lot of ideas for table settings, as well as instructions to make lovely floral centerpieces. The recipes themselves are written in a clear and concise fashion, and feature ingredients that you are likely to have on hand, or that are easily accessible.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Chronicle Books for providing me with a digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book makes hosting seem so effortless! I’m seriously inspired to throw a get together asap! I think the beginning section about essentials to have for hosting is especially useful. I can’t wait to try some of these recipes, tips, and tricks at my next gathering!
I wish I'd been given this book at fifteen, the age the author catered a wedding event for the first time. Twenty years later, she's written a spectacular guide to hosting, with 100 recipes and hosting tips graced with a Southern touch. An author, a Top Chef winner, and a beloved TV personality, Kelsey Barnard Clark lays out the entire process so a hosting phobic dweeb like me can prepare, cook, and give a party like a pro. The color photos are gorgeous and I was immediately taken by recipes such as hot honey chicken, jambalaya, beignets, and bananas foster. Yum! Highly recommended for both new and seasoned party throwers.
Now I want to host a gathering with all of my friends! What a beautiful book full of delicious recipes and great tips! I loved how multiple recipes had several different variations of the same dish; ie the frittatas and pizzas. If you love hosting, cooking and gathering with friends this is a perfect addition to your home library! Heck, even if that isn't your thing, but you love new recipes and beautiful pictures, this book is for you!
I was born in the south but left early. Somehow my southern heart has always remained. The food, entertaining, and gatherings are like no other there. This book was a fun, educational read. Definitely recommend this one. Great gift as well.
Thank you to Chronicle Books and Net Galley for a digital ARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Southern Get-Togethers: A Guide to Hosting Unforgettable Gatherings—Plus Entertaining Inspiration, Tips, and 100+ Recipes
Kelsey Barnard Clark
I remember my aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents having family get-togethers several times of the year. There would be fried chicken, salads, pies, cakes, tea, lemonade, and homemade ice cream. The food was always delicious, but the company was even better. I still love to entertain but usually it is around the holidays. This book has intrigued me, and I just might have to have a summer or fall get-together for our neighbors…maybe both.
Author Kelsey Barnard Clark offers readers plenty of recipes and tips to produce a grand get-together. There are colored photos that tempt the readers. I can hardly wait to try several of the recipes and tips for my next get-tgether.
This cookbook is phenomenal from start to finish. Chef Kelsey Barnard Clark won Top Chef and I have to say, I am a huge fan. Getting to try out her recipes was truly a delight and they were so delicious!
I got to read all her descriptions and recipes which were so well done. I got everything from appetizers to desserts! I tried the shrimp recipe which is out of my comfort zone and my whole family devoured it.
I was so impressed with the layout and quality of this cookbook!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my copy of Southern Get-Togethers!!
The book is so beautiful and all the recipes look so divine. I can’t wait to host my next party! This is more than just a cookbook; a go to guide for hosting any get together.
The perfect gifting cook/lookbook as well!
Wow what a pretty book! I loved the tidbits and pictures of the decor and food. Seems like a lot of fun putting this together and I can’t wait to try out some of the recipes.
Gorgeous photos, an approachable host, and a range of recipes from casual to formal make this a great read for anyone who wants to start or improve their hosting skills.
Simply stunning!
Thank you Netgalley and Chronicle Books for the lovely ARC!
The book is gorgeous! The recipes are approachable and don't require special-order ingredients for the most part. Some of the dinner party prep advice was a little out of touch, in my opinion -- I do not have an entire closet in my home to devote to dinner party supplies. That said, I can't wait to try out some of these menus with my friends!
The ultimate party planning guide! All of the details are covered from setting a table to flowers to recipes for many types of gatherings including daytime, all-day, potlucks, formal. This is a hard copy worth owning. The photography is stunning. I do wish there was a photo for each recipe, but there is so much information packed in here, that would make for a very large book!
Thank you to #NetGalley and #ChronicleBooks for a free copy of #SouthernGetTogethers by Kelsey Barnard Clark. All opinions are my own.
A BIG THANK YOU to Chronicle Books and NetGalley for the ARC of Southern Get-Togethers: A Guide to Hosting Unforgettable Gatherings by Kelsey Barnard Clark. This is a wealth of information and an indispensable resource for anyone looking to infuse their gatherings with Southern charm and hospitality.
As a Top Chef winner and hospitality-industry expert, Clark brings her lifetime of experience and expertise to the table, offering readers practical advice, expert tips, and over 100 recipes that are sure to impress any crowd. From casual cookouts to formal feasts, this book has everything you need to host unforgettable gatherings with ease and confidence.
With her infectious enthusiasm, Clark makes hosting feel like a breeze, providing invaluable insights and encouragement for both novice and experienced hosts alike. Whether you're planning a small get-together or a large-scale event, her wide-ranging and accessible recipes, paired with helpful tips on tablescaping, flower arranging, and menu planning, ensure that every aspect of your gathering is a resounding success.
With its stunning food and lifestyle photography and mouthwatering recipes, this is more than just a cookbook—it's a celebration of Southern hospitality and a testament to the joy of bringing people together over delicious food. Whether you're a seasoned entertainer or a first-time host, this book is sure to become your go-to guide for creating memorable and meaningful gatherings that will leave your guests wondering when they’ll be visiting again.
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
5 of 5 Stars
Pub Date 10 September 2024
#SouthernGetTogethers #NetGalley
Beautiful book with gorgeous photos. I enjoyed looking at the photos of the table set ups, the amazing looking food and the decor. The recipes look very good. There are southern recipes and also some Mediterranean ones (which I wasn’t sure why). Everything looks great! The book is easy to read and to follow, well organized and clean. I received a free digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review
Kelsey Bernard Clark is giving away so many of her entertaining secrets in her gorgeous new book "Southern Get-Togethers". You'll learn how to build an entertaining pantry and bar, what dishes and serve-ware are essential and how to host the perfect get together. Especially helpful are her how much food and drink to have on hand at a party guides. The photos are stunning and the recipes sound so delicious. This book would make a beautiful gift!
Many thanks to Netgally and Chronicle Books for this ARC.
Everything related to planning and gathering friends and family in one place! Recipes, expert tips based on experience, gorgeous pictures, and easy to follow directions and suggestions. Casual, fancy, brunch, lunch, dinner, and special occasions are all covered. I love the relaxed approach and the reminder to keep calm and enjoy yourself. Having southern roots myself, I appreciate the homage to traditional southern dishes, drinks, and desserts. There are plenty of international flavors to experiment with as well for those looking for more than southern fare. I feel the contributions are definitely that of a creative professional, but the inspiration and reminder to focus on the most important things made this a guide I would turn to for my own planning.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
This is a great addition to your bookshelf if you like to entertain! This has helpful guides on how to prep your closet/pantry/bar, from what/how much silverware to get to how to set the table for different occasions (e.g. formal/semi-formal, casual, potluck/buffets). The charts on how much food/drinks/liquor/appetizers to ration/portion depending on how many guests are expected were especially helpful.
There are also lots of delicious recipes sectioned off into a few different chapters:
-Daytime Delights (e.g. for brunch/lunch/happy hours/stop-by's)
-All-Day Bashes (e.g. game day, fry day)
-Potlucks & Supper Clubs (e.g. BYO steak night, BYO burger night, taco night, pizza night)
-Formal Affairs & Slow Food Socials (e.g. staycations, paella night, hunting season)
I'm looking forward to trying out the tiramisu for our next potluck! :] (The beignets, berry clafloutis, + roasted apple/peanut streusel/chili crunch ice cream sundaes look amazing as well!)
Thank you to NetGalley & the publisher for this ARC!
This book is new southern - same southern hospitality with updated recipes. I loved the complete themed meals. It is nice to have a cohesive plan already set.
Gorgeous pictures and enticing southern recipes for elegant gatherings. There’s casual and formal menus as well as classic and updated recipes.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for letting me review this book. These recipes are many I grew up with and some new ones in the mix. I plan on trying several of them. The photos were great!
This book is full of gorgeous photography that immediately made me want to host a dinner party. And then I remembered that I have none of that stuff or the space to do it. The recipes I tried all came out well and the directions were clear. Ingredients were mostly easily accessible which I always appreciate.
This is such a helpful book for someone looking to host more in their home! Aside from the delicious-looking recipes and gorgeous photography, this book has really helpful instructions for what's needed for hosting, how to plan menus, how to put together floral arrangements, and general etiquette are amazing. This would make an excellent housewarming or bridal shower gift! I can't wait to put this book to use hosting this summer.
Thank you NetGalley and Chronicle Books for this gift. Here is my review of Southern Get Togethers by, Kelsey Barnard Clark.
Fantastic recipes and entertaining tips, southern style. The recipes are grouped by function…brunch, all day long, potlucks & supper clubs & formal dinners & socials. Let’s not forget the fun cocktails too.
Planning the menu. Hosting guidelines. Tons of helpful tips.
The recipes, from prep to finish are thoroughly written and easy to follow. Most are not for beginners but experienced. It’s nice to have a fresh take on old recipes as well as a bunch of creative new ones, to add to the mix. Kudos for adding the brightly colored photos to the book.
This cookbook would make a wonderful gift!
While I did not find more than a handful of recipes I would choose to make in this cookbook, I enjoyed the beautiful photos and appreciate the variety of foods offered. Most of the recipes did not seem like they would be too difficult to make.
Thank you NetGalley and Chronicle Books for this advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Southern Get-Togethers by Kelsey Barnard Clark is a beautiful manual for the want-to-be host, the host-in-training and the host-in-charge. The want-to-be host will find this book to be a great base to show how easy you can start with one meal and move up to host-in-training who has a few meals and get togethers under their belt. The host-in-charge will find this book a handy tool to reference in their toolbox.
Everyone from a beginner to an expert will think this book is a keeper with everything from recipies, meal plans, tablescapes and storage.
Southern Get-Togethers has tons of great ideas and informative bits.
I would like to thank you Chronicle Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions in this review are my own.
#SouthernGetTogethers #NetGalley #ChronicleBooks
I liked the organization of this book which begins with pantry ready checklists and party organization tips, then dives into small to large gatherings and recipes for different seasons and types of parties. The photos of the food but also the tablescapes and guests having fun were also inspirational. Being from the Northeast, I also appreciated the bits if Southern hospitality and tips sprinkled throughout!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book!
Y’all, I love a good cookbook. I pour over the pages of recipes and glossy photos like I’m reading a novel. While I love to read cookbooks cover to cover, not all make the cut of taking up precious room in my kitchen for days on end let alone become a permanent addition. From the moment I read through the table of contents I knew this book needed to be added to my kitchen library. And the results of these recipes did not disappoint. Kelsey Barnard Clark has put together a masterful collection of menus, recipes, tips & tricks that will make even the staunchest introvert decide to host a party. Even if you are only cooking for your own household, this recipe collection is a must have. I received an advance copy of this ebook to review and I can whole heartedly say, buy this book! I have already pre-ordered a hardback copy for myself and few to use as gifts.
A beautiful book with everything that you need to throw a fabulous southern soiree. Souther Get-Togethers includes several menu planning ideas and corresponding recipes for every occasion - including brunch, happy hour, game day celebration, potlucks and supper clubs (pizza, tacos, burgers, mezze-Greek), and formal affairs (French Boeuf Bourguignon, Roast Chicken). The Getting Started section was also helpful and provided pro-tips for hosting, table setting, floral arrangements, and social etiquette.
This book is approachable and fun!
I cannot wait to make more recipes out of this cookbook. Kelsey really encompasses the various cultures found in the Southern United States within this cookbook. This book focuses on not only recipes but presentation, and also hosting a party/get together as we call them in the South. I really enjoyed her use and a section on florals, and also just basic ingredients that every cook should have on hand.
I definitely will purchase this book when it releases and I am so thankful to have been given the opportunity to review this by the publisher and Netgalley! I have posted a review of this novel on Goodreads as well.
More than just a cookbook. Perfect party planning resource for preparing a modern get together of any kind. Checklists, charts and thoughtful considerations as well as practical tips from setting the table, creating center pieces, splitting hosting duties and more. Beautiful photos throughout. Most recipes are straightforward and come together quickly.
Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced readers copy. This was a fun party planning book that reminds me of my southern roots.
A hybrid of lifestyle and entertaining, coupled with fabulous photography and some wonderful recipes make this a winner!
I am a huge fan of Kelsey Barnard Clark and own her first cookbook “Southern Grit.” The recipes in her first cook book were amazing so I was so excited for her new book. It definitely did not disappoint. The photography and layout are absolutely gorgeous. I always love when cookbooks begin with starting information such as suggested pantry items. This book includes the information in a checklist, which is extra helpful. I also like the information on how to set a table based on what type of party you are having. There is a great assortment of recipes. The recipes are not too complex and most of the ingredients are readily available. The instructions are also easy to follow. Overall, I think this is a great book both for the recipes and the information.
I enjoyed going through this cookbook! I gained some ideas for other dishes as well as made a couple of my own! Everything looked good and the ones I made tasted good as well!
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
As a Southern lady myself, Southern Get-Togethers is cookbook and hosting perfection! My absolute favorite kind of cookbook is laid out with menus, just like in Southern Get-Togethers. The hosting tips and checklists are also extremely helpful and applicable. The delicious sounding recipes appear simple enough to not feel intimidating or daunting to take on, and to make even a novice cook appear advanced. I am about to preorder, so that I can have this amazing resource at my fingertips as soon as it’s published this Fall. This will be a great book to gift this holiday season! In the meantime I will be testing out some of these delicious recipes. I am thrilled to have previewed an Advanced Reader Copy.
There is nothing that Southerners love more than entertaining. This is the best book to help you out for your next party. It has helpful hints for every aspect of your party from the guest list to the food. Whether you regularly entertain or you are new to it you will find this book helpful.. She gives you ideas for different table settings depending on how formal or informal you event is. And then there's the flowers. She even goes into the social reminders or rules if you must for a party both for the host and guest. There are recipes for all kinds of events from brunch to a milkshake bar. There are lovely pictures of the tables, flowers and food. I can't wait to host an event and use this book.
This was such a pretty cookbook and it made me want to host a party sooo bad. Not that I’m ever going to be hosting anything as fancy as the events pictured here, but there were definitely a few recipes I want to try. The pictures of the hot honey chicken almost makes me want to try and tackle deep frying (which I’ve only done once before).
Thanks to NetGalley and Chronicle Books for the digital ARC, all opinions are my own.
I want to thank Netgalley and the author for gifting me the ebook.
What a beautiful cookbook. I really enjoyed reading it and the recipes all looks delicious and easy to make. Highly recommend!
This is a beautifully photographed and organized cookbook. I would almost say that this book crosses the boundary from true cookbook to a life and style book. The author pays homage to events and holidays that are important to her family and the meals suggestions are curated to fit this. This book would be a wonderful aesthetic addition to a cookbook shelf, but probably not one I would reach for regularly, as the recipes seem tailored to certain seasons and have pretty specific ingredient lists.
This is a guide for all kinds of get-togethers. Starting with what you should have and what should be used for each type of event, this covers everything you need to know to host the best get-togethers. It has recipes for different occasions and themed events. I especially liked the checklists you could use to check off all the items you need.
Thank you Netgalley for the chance to read and review Southern Get-Togethers.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Southern Get-Togethers, there are so many wonderful imagery and recipes for different types of fun gatherings. I found a few recipes that I would love to give a try. I'm from the North East and Southern things aren't as familiar to me, so when I get the opportunity to check out things related to the South, I am interested.
Woww!! Love love love this book, so detailed and imaged well! It is so picturesque and the photos make the book. The layout is beautiful and the amount of information about throwing an amazing party is boundless. Place setting, florals, drinks, etc, I can't express how alike this is to my style. This is the lifestyle that is all over my Pinterest page! I had no idea who the author was, but after reading this I will know the name Kelsey Barnard Clark. Safe to say I will be buying this book, I know it will look so great in hardback on my kitchen counter. I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you NetGalley, Chronicle Books and Kelsey Barnard Clark for this e-ARC copy of Southern Get-Togethers for a review. This is a beautiful book on party planning with gorgeous photographs for inspiration. There are sections on prep of serving pieces, pantry and bar; the who, what where and when; table settings; florals and candles; hosting guidelines; and planning the menu with charts on how much food and beverages. And the recipes are perfect for any occasion. This is the perfect book for hosting an unforgettable party.
Southern Get-Togethers: A Guide to Hosting Unforgettable Gatherings –– Plus Entertaining Inspiration, Tips, and 100 + Recipes by Kelsey Barnard Clark is a 290 page book. A more upscale collection of recipes is included in this recipe book. It's not one of those church-gathered recipe books. Below you will find some of my favorite recipes from each section of the book.
Getting Started
Party Ready Closet
Party Ready Pantry
Party Ready Bar
The Who, Why, When, and Where
The Table
The Florals
How to Plan Any Menu, Anytime
The Charts
Hosting Guidelines
Mind Your P's and Q's but Break Some Rules
Daytime Delights
Tarragon Chicken Salad on Croissants
Mushroom, Goat Cheese and Spinach Frittata
Berry Clafoutis
All-Day Bashes
Beignets
Hot Honey Chicken
Shortbread Crumble Banana Pudding
Potlucks & Supper Clubs
Tandoori Wings
Carnegie Deli-Inspired Cheesecake
Homemade Pita
Lamb Kofta Kebabs
Tiramisu
Formal Affairs & Slow Food Socials
Fennel and Citrus Roast Chicken
Jollof Rice
Whole Artichokes
Bananas Foster
Paella
Flan de Leche
Southern-Style Ramen
This was such a cool book!
As a Southern lady myself, I can vouch for this book. It’s full of the unwritten rules of hosting that your mama taught you (or that you wish she had). It’s the classic rules of how to be a gracious hostess with contemporary parties in mind.
One of my favorite pages was charts of how much food (protein, veggie, starch) and alcohol (beer, wine, liquor) you’d need for 10-20-50-100-150 people. I mean, I can’t see myself hosting a 150-person party but I have hosted parties for 25 people and having this resource at hand would have been a huge help!
The recipes looked really good as well! I liked the idea of making my own Quick Pickled Green Tomatoes or Compound Butter to add a little pizzazz to the main dishes I’m more accustomed to.
More than anything, this book reminds me of a coffee table version of a Junior Service League cookbook that I inherited from my mom (IYKYK). It’s full of recipes, but also good tips and advice about party hosting. All it’s missing are personal notes like “Buy a pan of frozen yeast rolls.”
Overall, this is a beautiful book that would make a good gift for a bridal shower or just yourself if you’re a party planner.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Southern Get-Togethers is beautifully photographed and executed. The pages feature sumptuous designs, and elegant photos of tablescapes and dishes are beautifully laid out. This is the perfect book, not only for those looking for recipes for get-togethers but also for someone who is interested in learning *how* to host. Author Kelsey Barnard Clark has tips, tricks, and secrets for daytime parties, cocktail evenings, hunting seasons, potlucks, and everything in between. Not only could I not wait to try the recipes included (especially some of the batch drink recipes, I've never been successful in preparing cocktails for a crowd!) but I also loved all of the information she provided to help each event run smoothly and be enjoyable for both guests and hosts.
This is a must-purchase not only for libraries in the Southern US but for anyone who has patrons interested in the art of entertaining. Special thanks to NetGalley and to Chronicle Books for providing an Advanced Reader's Copy of Southern Get-Togethers in exchange for an unbiased review.
Southern Get-Togethers is filled with beautiful photos, hosting tips, and tons of wonderful recipes!
Thank you NetGalley and Chronicle Books for this ARC!
Southern Get-Togethers is a non-fiction book with recipes, organisation and decoration tips.
I am not the exact target audience - I do not organise such big gatherings often, but when I do, I would like them to be like the ones in this book: well-0rganised, plus I was aware that this book contained useful information when I picked it up.
Flower arrangements, decoration tips, and recipes accompanied by amazing photos. What more to ask? Plus, as an artist, I get inspiration from such books. This is a well-designed and written book and I recommend it.
Southern Get-Togethers is an accessible and *useful* guide to putting together inviting tables from the smallest gatherings to feasts, with a southern (USA) aesthetic and featuring southern cuisine written and curated by Chef Kelsey Barnard Clark. Due out 17th Sept 2024 from Chronicle Books, it's 288 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats.
This is a complete guide from the planning phase (what, how many, season, where, resources) through to completion for beautiful, timely, appropriate, inviting, and tastefully presented spreads - from the simplest nibbles with friends, to a lush extravaganza.
There are so many practical takeaways here - everything from choosing flavors and balancing flavors and textures, to serving utensils, containers, glassware, dinnerware, and more. This is the stuff which those of us who grew up without a subscription to Southern Living and Town & Country probably missed out on.
The presentations are divided thematically: daytime gatherings (brunches, lunches, happy hours/stop-by gatherings), all-day parties (game/playoff days, cookouts, family reunion type things), potlucks & supper club gatherings, and formal affairs and slow food socials. Each type of gathering is given solid reflection and the attention to detail is impressive and reassuring.
The recipes are included in each individual gathering and range from very simple casual friend type dishes to showstoppers.
Ingredient measurements are supplied in imperial (American) standard measurements with metric measures in parentheses (yay!). The nutritional information is not included. Each gathering includes a header with a short description of the recipes and approximate servings. Extra tips or recipe alternatives are listed in text boxes in the recipes. The recipes themselves are fairly straightforward and are made for the most part with easily sourced ingredients.
The photography is abundant and clear and the recipes are illustrated simply and clearly. The photography by Antonis Achilleos is one of the highlights of this book.
This would make a great choice for the cook's home library. It's a really good solid volume on entertaining and it also includes quite a good selection of finger-foods, appetizers, small bites, and brunch dishes. Holiday dinners aren't a focus in this volume, but it would be easy to incorporate modifications.
Five stars. Beautifully presented and accessible for regular (non-professional) cooks.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
#CampNetGalley #BookishScavengerHunt #BookishPhotoChallenge #NetGalley #SummerPhotoChallenge
Very nice cookbook. I look forward to trying out some of the recipes with my family. They seem pretty easy to follow and consist of things my family will actually eat.
Southern Gets-Togethers is a recipe and hosting book that is broke down into five sections (getting started, daytime delights, all day bashes, potlucks/supper clubs, and formal affairs/slow food socials). It is full of useful information, recipes, beautiful photos, and great party ideas. My favorite recipes are for butter bean hummus, the milkshake bar, salsa three ways, and roasted apple, peanut streusel, and chili crunch ice cream sandwiches.
Read this book if you like:
* To host elaborate dinner parties or groups of friends on a hot summer night.
* If you love southern food
Stars: 4/5
Thank you to Kelsey Barnard Clark, Chronicle Books, and Netgalley let for allowing me to read an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Beautiful book!
Practical guide to hosting wonderful gatherings with tips, checklists and a bountiful of recipes.
Thanks to NetGalley, Chronicle Books & Kelsey Barnard Clark for giving me an ARC of this amazing book ✨
Kelsey has written another wonderful book, where her heart and soul shines through. The photography and styling is truly stunning. The writing style makes you feel like you're getting guidance from your best friend, who also has the most gorgeous home and throws the best parties. I have a long list of recipes to try, starting with the Peruvian Solterito and Big Batch French 75. So glad I got to experience this ARC!
Being from the South, I always appreciate a good recipe. I especially love cooking new things for family gatherings. I can't wait to taste-test these wonderful ideas!
I appreciate the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book is beautiful and the recipes are well-written! I love how it’s structured and split up by what type of gathering you want to throw. Definitely would make a great gift. Thank you for the ARC.
The photos alone are a good reason to get this book. Then there is the advice towards entertaining including dishware, linens and everything else you might need. The food, oh the food. There is a well rounded selection of recipes, of special note to me where the French potato and green bean salad, and the salsas. There are so many items bookmarked to try!
Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for this lovely arc. The illustrations are beautiful and delicious recipes. Perfect for get togethers and the holidays.
This book is beautiful. It has information on etiquette and tips for hosting dinner parties or luncheons. There are also many wonderful recipes that I can’t wait to try. I can’t wait to get a physical copy.
Recipes from across the south
Ms. Clark created a Southern cookbook with the old favorites and some new twists. It is beautifully illustrated and the recipes run from back yard get together to formal settings. Set up in categories to make it quick to find your goal.
I requested and received a Netgalley ARC to peruse gratis and offer my opinion in the same.
True Confessions: I am a Top Chef fan and have watched every episode including the year that Kelsey Barnard Clark won. I loved her home style cooking, her love of family and her plans for her restaurant. I was prepared to love this cookbook. I wasn’t prepared for how much.
Getting Started, the first section, is full of ideas and suggestions. For instance, add to your glass and dinnerware collections at thrift stores. The Prep chapters give you a shopping list of necessary items to keep in your pantry and..I would buy the book just for this…how much food ( meat, starch, vegetable) you need per person! No more wondering if you have enough!
The recipes are organized into four sections: Daytime Delights (Tarragon Chicken Salad sounds yummy), All Day Bashes ( Coconut Tempura Shrimp is my pick here), Potlucks and Supper Clubs (Crunchy Chickpeas for a snack) and Formal Affairs and Slow Food Socials (French Potato and Green Bean Salad) and have so many other delicious recipes.
This cookbook belongs in every kitchen. It’s full of information and Kelsey Barnard Clark makes you feel like you can make all the recipes here. I don’t usually feel that way about recipes either. So 5 stars for the cookbook and another 5 stars for the gorgeous photographs taken by Antonis Achilleos. The old pickup truck full of flowers on the country road is amazing!
Thank you to NetGalley, Chronicle Books and Kelsey Barnard Clark for this ARC.
I received a copy of this eBook from netGalley for a honest review.
This book is wonderful. Filled with ideas on ways to celebrate with food. So many great recipes to share and devour. It just makes me want to throw a party!
Beautiful pictures and fun ideas for my next dinner party. I can’t wait to try a majority of the recipes as they seem simple enough to throw together.
Highly recommend this informative book showcasing gorgeous pictures with recipes, and tips for hosting and entertaining. Highly recommend this book if you are hosting a party for any occasion. Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for a chance to read and review this book in exchange for an honest review.
What a beautiful cookbook. Photograph is phenomenal and compliments the flow of the book, I love the pop of blue in each picture.
Kelsey has structured this book so it’s easy to prep, prepare, and then relax at any gathering you choose to create.
I found her charts regarding how much food and beverage to serve for different size crowds very useful.
From casual get together to formal meals, this cookbook has so many themed meals to choose.
Loved it.
One of my most anticipated cookbooks of 2024 and it did not disappoint. I've been a big Kelsey Clark fan since her days on Top Chef. I got an arc of her first cookbook and still use it often. I love that we are getting back to books about cooking for friends and loved ones in groups. Dinner parties are back and better than ever thanks to books like Southern Get Togethers that make it easy and fun. The recipe for Foolproof Caterer's Hollandaise is worth the price of the book alone. I loved that the BYO Protein section focused on the sides and sauces that help make a protein special. The bacon onion jam is stellar. Everyone needs a good tiramisu recipe and Kelsey's turned out just as expected- perfect. Add this cookbook to your shelf.
I take any opportunity to enjoy a great meal with friends and family, and this cookbook makes it even more enticing. Its stunning pictures inspire me to try every recipe and even replicate the beautiful place settings. I can already envision making several of these dishes regularly.
Chef Kelsey Barnard Clark shares her party-planning expertise in "Southern Get-Togethers," There are over 100 recipes and practical advice for both new and seasoned hosts. This self-help book simplifies hosting various events, from casual gatherings to formal dinners, with crowd-pleasing dishes. The cookbook includes helpful tips on menu planning and more, this cookbook is a go-to guide for mastering Southern hospitality and creating memorable celebrations.
Readers who liked this book also liked:
Emily Kircher-Morris; Amanda Morin
Health, Mind & Body, Nonfiction (Adult), Professional & Technical