“True hospitality consists of giving the best of yourself to your guests," Eleanor Roosevelt wrote.
Hosting whisperer Lydia Menzies’ new book, The Supper Club, could be the complete textbook on how to ensure your guests know they received your best.
Menzies will present her new book and demonstrate how to turn a Spring event into a neighborhood sensation, from decorations to dining.
GWM spent a few minutes with Menzies recently to learn more about her background and her new book.
GWM: What appeals to you most about the hospitality/entertaining genre?
Menzies: I enjoy the opportunity to create an experience for others that involves food, fun, and creativity. This lets guests know that I value them and their friendship, and it is an act of gratitude for our relationship.
GWM: What do you like most about being a published author?
Menzies: Writing a book is no small feat. The completion of this project has felt like a personal milestone, but what I like most is sharing the dynamic creativity and kindness that exists within The Supper Club. Being a published author means I have a chance to show the heart and soul of an incredible group at the next level.
GWM: Tell us a bit about your writing process.
Menzies: I had the honor of writing about each individual party that was created. Being on-site for the parties and traveling to each host’s location gave a fresh perspective on the stories behind the people and parties. I went to Nantucket to write. Each day, I would wake, write, and then take a long walk around town, have a late lunch, and then return and write until around midnight. Nantucket’s beautiful flowers, beaches, and community always inspire me creatively, which made it the perfect choice for dedicated writing time.
GWM: What has surprised you most in your experiences as an author?
Menzies: The excitement people have shown for getting their hands on the book! I have also been handling the shipping/ distribution of the book, and the response has been overwhelming. I have struggled to keep up with the orders, and I am beyond grateful.
GWM: Has there been any advice you gleaned from another author that you consider most helpful?
Menzies: Book signing logistics! So many authors have kindly shared suggestions, from how many Sharpie pens to bring to how to wrap your wrist after a signing to minimize muscle fatigue. The things you never thought you needed to know become the greatest tips!
Visit the Georgia Writers Museum at georgiawritersmuseum.org to register for this special event, which begins at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 1 (doors open at 6:30 p.m.), and to pre-order a copy of The Supper Club.
Tickets are $40 each and will include incredible decorations and a gourmet meal fashioned by Chef Brent. Menzies will be signing books after her talk, too.