When it comes to entertaining in full colour, Rey knows how to do it best. A true hostess with a heart of gold, her summer philosophy is all about abundance, effortless style, and long, sun-drenched afternoons around the table. We teamed up with her to share The Ultimate Summer Dining Guide — a celebration of overflowing platters, playful tablescapes, and those little touches that make every guest feel truly looked after, Kip&Co style. From fresh seafood to vibrant tableware, consider this your go-to guide for the most joyful, relaxed summer gatherings yet.
When you’re hosting in summer, what’s your philosophy? Are you all about simplicity, abundance, or a bit of both?
I’ve always been of the philosophy that more is more. For me, abundance creates a feeling of warmth and generosity. I never want guests to feel shy about going back for seconds or feeling like they can’t touch the food that’s in front of them because it’s too precious or scarce. That said, abundance doesn’t have to mean complicated; you can keep the menu beautifully simple, just serve lots of it!
I grew up in a home where the dining table was the centre of everything, so summer hosting for me is all about long lunches, overflowing platters, and that feeling of being truly looked after.
Summer hosting starts with a mood — when you're entertaining in the warmer months, how do you like to set the scene? Think tables, music, ambience… what’s your signature?
Summer naturally lends itself to a more relaxed style of entertaining, and I love embracing that. I tend to serve everything buffet or family-style, so people can help themselves throughout the afternoon.
This is also the season when I bring out the fun tablescapes — colourful plates, playful serveware, patterned napkins, and always, always fresh flowers.
Dish of the season — what’s your go-to summer recipe or signature crowd-pleaser you always come back to (and why does it never fail you)?
Fresh seafood is my non-negotiable for summer hosting. A morning run to the fish markets guarantees a menu that feels light, simple, and universally loved. Sashimi and prawn cocktails are always crowd pleasers. I find that guests also love a selection of fresh salads in the warmer months. Natalie Chassay is my go-to for salad inspo!
I also love making a pasta Nerano. It’s easy to make, comforting, and the flavours instantly transport me to Capri. It’s also the perfect dish to add a little substance to an otherwise light summer menu.
What’s a food, ritual, or memory that instantly transports you to summers past?
Music is a big one for me. A great playlist can work wonders and shift the entire atmosphere. A dreamy French or Italian playlist has this magic ability to transport you straight into holiday mode, no matter where you are.
What are your must-do tips for keeping things relaxed, stylish, and stress-free when everyone’s coming over?
Prep is everything when it comes to stress-free entertaining. Opt for a menu that allows you to prepare as much as you can in advance. I like to wash salad leaves, chop ingredients, and batch-cook anything possible the night before, so on the day I’m really just doing final touches and handling the fresh produce like seafood. Sauces, dressings, and toppings can all be prepped in advance. Pasta Nerano is a great one because you can cook the zucchini ahead of time.
And lastly, invest in beautiful tableware. It makes such a difference. It instantly elevates the whole experience without adding any stress.
Why did you choose these table pieces from the Kip&Co collection. How does colour play a role in your every day?
I’m a sucker for colour. I love how playful it feels, and how immediately it transforms a table. Kip&Co’s ceramics are pure joy. They are vibrant, fun, and the quality is amazing. The strawberry vase is my standout piece; it reminds me of summers in Sicily, where fruit-themed ceramics are everywhere. I’m obsessed.
