How to Throw a True Blood Party

Alas, the season finale of True Blood approaches.  A delightful and macabre series on HBO featuring the perky Anna Paquin and the delicious Alexander (bear all my children) Skarsgard -- sorry honey.  A look at modern day vampires, loosely based on the fabulous Sookie Stackhouse novels by Charlaine Harris. 

This season introduces a host of new creatures to us.  Alcide the yummy Were, Crystal and the panthers, Sam's shifter family, Holly the Wiccan, the Fairies.  It's a little overwhelming.  The story line is really out there but, you've gotta love it.  Each episode leaves you wanting more and I know the finale will leave us all hanging, hungering for another season.  To celebrate, have an undead dinner party.

When I think vampire I picture a very Victorian palate. Rich colors of gold, black and blood red of course, luxe fabrics and candles. For those of us who don't live in a medieval Austrian castle I've whipped up some simple decor that will give that feeling... that would impress the Queen of Louisiana herself.

To set the scene cover your table in a black tablecloth.  White plates on red chargers make a beautifully bold statement.  To finish off the place setting a simple pair of plastic vampire teeth wrapped around red napkins.  For the centrepiece combine a bowl of deep red apples, vases with red or black roses with a myriad of candles.  Weave some golden fabric in between and viola.  Even Talbot would approve!

The food itself depends on what kind of get together you are having, formal or casual.  Be creative.  Spicy "bat" wings as appetizers, bloody mary's, steak (rare of course), garlic bread, red velvet cake and for the adventurous V juice shooters.  The combinations are endless.  A nice beet and feta salad will be the feature on my menu (mostly because I'm polish) along with steaks, garlic bread and a nice bottle of Vampire wine.

For those who are super (dorky) housewives like me, put on that flowery summer dress a la Sookie and have a ball, but be careful whom you invite inside!