Taylor Lautner's Japanese-inspired dining table offers insight into how we're hosting in 2025 – the inviting trend favors cozy, informal entertaining

Gone are the days when a dinner party required days of planning, preparation, and stress. In 2025, we're moving towards cozier, more casual hosting that prioritizes comfort over finery. Taylor Lautner is leading the charge.

The actor took to Instagram to share a sweet image of his unconventional dining table styling. The picture shows friends seated on blankets at a dinner party in his and his wife Tay's home. They are gathered around a stunning chabudai, or low Japanese table, a furnishing that is popular throughout Japan and other East Asian countries where floor sitting is the norm. It is beautifully tablescaped with rattan placemats, stoneware plates, and fresh flowers.

The casual nature of the table taps into the dining room trend we're seeing taking over in 2025: informal hosting. For instance, the throw cushions and blankets indicate that the table is probably not a standard feature in their home, and likely thrown together just for this event. Furthermore, the setting uses everyday dishes, rather than fine china.

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'We’re seeing a real shift towards more frequent, informal hosting,' explains Karen Thomas, head of homeware design at M&S. 'Staying in has become just as exciting as going out – and with the right pieces and planning, it can feel just as special.'

What's the best way to tap into this trend for your summer tablescaping? We recommend a focus on vibes over specific aesthetic choices.

'You don’t need to overcomplicate entertainment,' advises Karen. 'A curated playlist, a fun conversation-starter or a simple activity can help keep the energy flowing if the evening needs a lift.'

The most important element of this type hosting is believing in the specialness of each moment. The best summer table decor is the table decor you love the most.

Karen explains: 'We’re seeing customers really lean into creating a sense of occasion at home. Whether that’s layering textures and colours with playful cabbageware, boho chic picnicware or channelling Italian summer vibes with Amalfi-inspired ceramics, tablescaping has become an expression of personality and a huge part of the fun of hosting.'

A low table is perfect for creating a cozy, informal energy for your summer dinner parties. Floor cushions and everyday dishware will make your guests feel instantly at ease for events that feel anything but ordinary.