Published on June 1, 2018 | Last Updated on June 1, 2018

I decided to switch things up with a new series featuring some of the most inspiring people I follow on Instagram! Every other Friday I’ll share an interview filled with entertaining tips and tricks from some pros and fellow bloggers. I always love learning about what people like to keep on hand for last minute hosting or go-to easy recipes and I hope you guys too!

First up, Katie from Spray Paint & Chardonnay! Katie was also a Zeta at Texas but several pledge classes head. I remember her coming back to visit the house during recruitment and thinking how adorable she was (and still is!). Fast forward a few years and this crazy little thing called Instagram reconnected us. I’ve loved following her over the years for fun DIY and home decor inspiration! She remodeled her house the same time as us so it was nice to share the whoas of the process. Fast forward to today, Katie has the most swoon worthy home and started designing for others. Keep reading to learn more about 

WHAT DO YOU ALWAYS KEEP ON HAND THAT IS QUICK TO SERVE? 

Chilled Sauvignon Blanc, Topo Chicos, and an assortment of cheeses and crackers for an easy cheese platter. 

PRETEND YOU JUST GOT A CALL FROM YOUR COLLEGE BESTIES AND THEY’RE STOPPING BY IN 2 HOURS… WHAT DO YOU WHIP UP? 

My college girlfriends and I love a good bottle of wine (who doesn’t?!), so I’d make sure I had a few bottles of red and white on hand. Carbs and cheese are also safe bets, so a pretty cheese board would certainly be present.  To add even more cheese to the menu, chips + queso is always a crowd-pleaser.  For the healthier ones, it’s always nice to have some crudite and hummus out.  Finally, I’d dig into my collection of quirky cocktail napkins and queue up a fun playlist for some  background tunes.

IF YOU HAD DAYS TO PREPARE FOR GUESTS, WHAT WOULD YOU DO DIFFERENTLY?

When I have the time, I like to pull out the serving pieces I’m going to use in advance and put post-it notes on them to remind myself what-goes-where, so I’m not scrambling before a party.  I also like to make sure I have fresh cut flowers for the table or kitchen island. AND, full-disclosure, I’m not the greatest in the kitchen, so given the extra time, I would probably swing by Central Market or Whole Foods to get a few prepared items to serve. 

IF YOU COULD HAVE A DRINK (COFFEE OR COCKTAIL) WITH ANY PERSON DEAD OR ALIVE, WHO WOULD IT BE?

Orlando Soria (@mrorlandosoria).  I’ve followed his Instagram account and have read his blog for years, and I’m constantly inspired–and entertained!–by his keen designs and unmatched sense of humor. His recently released book, Get It Together, had my cry-laughing before the first chapter!

DO YOU HAVE A NEVER FAILS CROWD PLEASING RECIPE? 

As I mentioned, I’m not exactly Giada De Laurentiis, so I wouldn’t even call this a recipe!  For a quick, easy, and eye-pleasing bite, I like to make watermelon, feta, and basil skewers (i.e. toothpicks) and then drizzle them with a little balsamic vinegar.  This appetizer requires little no cooking skills and can be prepared in just minutes before guests arrive. Plus, they’re really cute.

WHO INSPIRES YOU MOST WHEN IT COMES TO ENTERTAINING?

My mom has taught me most everything I know when it comes to entertaining (and hoarding serving pieces and party decor), but I’d be remiss to not mention the queen herself, Martha Stewart.  No matter the occasion, Martha always has the best ideas!

ABOUT KATIE

It’s really true that a good coat of spray paint or a heavy pour of wine can pretty much fix just about any problem.  From a dated piece of home décor to a less-than-awesome day, spray paint or wine is always the answer.

I’ve lived in Austin, Texas for 17 years and I’ve had the privilege of working at both ends of Austin’s broad spectrum: live music and state government.  When I’m not at my full-time job, blogging, or (re)decorating our newly remodeled home, you can typically find me at HomeGoods, a flea market, or at happy hour with friends.  I’m shamelessly obsessed with the Today Show, Willie Nelson, and my cat NoNo the Christmas Kitty.

I recently finished my very first remodel of a new home, and long story short, the process didn’t go as exactly as planned.  But, what remodels do?!  You can read the whole (disastrous) story here.  Even more recently, I’ve started Katie Taylor Design, LLC, where I aim to help others create and design beautiful spaces of their own.  For more information on services offered, clicked here.

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