The Inviting Life An Inspirational Guide to Homemaking, Hosting and Opening the Door to Happiness

Far more than a guide to homemaking and being a fine host—although it is definitely all that too—The Inviting Life is about how to live each day with a desire and determination to turn the ordinary into something lovely. It’s also a book about why we should bother. Whether the subject is décor, ambience, shopping, feeding weary travellers, mixing cocktails, planning dinner parties, or getting yourself motivated for spring cleaning, Laura Calder affirms the value of our everyday activities and shows how beauty, creativity, and delight have the power to change the world. This one-of-a-kind book is both a page-turning narrative about Laura’s own hosting and home-making adventures and an invaluable work of reference. It’s a spur to ideas for everything from creating a welcoming living space and making a respectable salad, to putting guests at their ease and writing a thank-you note worth receiving. Written with candour and humour in Laura’s inimitable and engaging voice, The Inviting Life offers empowering guidance for anyone looking to take more pleasure in their life and home.

LAURA CALDER was born and raised in Eastern Canada. She is the author of four cookbooks—French Food at Home; Dinner Chez Moi; Paris Express; and French Taste—and a contributor to The Globe and Mail. She wrote and hosted the internationally-aired series French Food at Home, which won a James Beard award. After a decade spent in France, Laura now lives and hosts in Toronto.