The Opening Note

This week, I’ve found myself thinking about one of my favorite parts of summer: gathering friends and family together for a garden party.

I’ve also been inspired by how brilliantly Americans seem to host outdoor gatherings. There’s such a joyful, relaxed spirit to them – everyone brings something to share, whether it’s a favorite salad, a homemade dessert, or a signature drink, and the whole afternoon feels wonderfully communal. I love the idea that hosting and good garden party ideas don’t have to fall on one person; everyone pitches in, making it feel less formal, more fun, and far more memorable.

Growing up in Britain, I was always drawn to the charm of traditional summer garden parties too. The tabletop was never perfectly matched, flowers were clipped fresh from the garden, homemade cakes appeared on well-loved china, and guests almost always stayed longer than expected because nobody wanted the afternoon to end. Those gatherings felt relaxed, welcoming, and full of personality – and in many ways, they remind me of the same easy-going atmosphere I admire about American outdoor entertaining today.

There’s something magical about hosting outdoors. Perhaps it’s the slower pace of a warm afternoon, the way conversations drift long after dessert, or simply the pleasure of setting a table beneath the trees and letting the garden do most of the decorating. The best gatherings are rarely the most elaborate – they're the ones where everyone feels comfortable enough to settle in, pour another glass, and stay a little longer.

So this week, I’m sharing an edit of my favourite garden party themes and inspiration, from beautiful table settings and charming serveware to comfortable seating, fresh flowers, and all the little details that make summer entertaining feel effortless. Whether you're planning an elegant afternoon tea or a relaxed potluck with friends, these are the pieces I'd genuinely choose to create a gathering that's welcoming, beautiful, and above all, fun.

After all, the best garden parties aren't the ones where everything goes perfectly – they're the ones where everyone feels completely at home.

The Edit: Entertain in Style

In the Queue

Next week on The Very British Edit, I'm embracing the effortless charm of a European summer – and all the decorating inspiration that comes with it.

It seems as though so many people are returning from vacations across Europe with a fresh appreciation for the colors, textures, and relaxed style that make Mediterranean destinations so unforgettable. From the iconic blue-and-white palette of the Greek islands to the striped beach clubs of the Italian Riviera, charming sardine motifs from Portugal, and sun-faded linens found in the South of France, these are the little details that instantly transport you somewhere warmer.

I've always admired the way Europeans make everyday living feel like a celebration of the season. Long lunches stretch into the afternoon, outdoor tables are set with beautiful yet uncomplicated pieces, and even the smallest balcony feels inviting with woven textures, colorful ceramics, and plenty of greenery. There's an easy elegance to it all that feels just as appealing at home as it does on vacation.

The beauty of this look is that it's incredibly easy to recreate. A striped tablecloth, woven baskets, terracotta planters, olive branches, hand-painted dinnerware, colorful glassware, or a few blue-and-white accents can completely transform a space without feeling overly themed. It's less about recreating a destination and more about capturing that carefree vacation atmosphere.

I've been gathering my favorite European-inspired finds that work beautifully in everyday homes, whether you're refreshing a patio, styling a dining table, or adding a few seasonal touches indoors. Think Mediterranean stripes, rustic pottery, natural textures, playful sardine prints, lemon motifs, and all the little details that make a home feel bright, welcoming, and full of summer spirit.

Next week, I'll be sharing the pieces I'd genuinely buy to bring this timeless European style home, along with simple decorating ideas inspired by Greece, Italy, the French Riviera, and beyond.

The Very British Edit is a shoppable guide to beautiful living with a distinctly British twist. From heritage patterns to timeless decor inspirations, each edition blends personal insight, design expertise, and a love of craftsmanship. It is stylish, trustworthy, and endlessly inspiring.

Outdoor hosting is one of the best ways to enjoy the summertime. Whether it's brunch on the patio, an afternoon pool party, or a moonlit, al fresco dinner, nothing can ruin the mood of a day spent outdoors – well, except soaring temperatures. So how do you and your guests keep cool when hosting outside in the summer?

We spoke to hosting experts who shared their practical and creative approaches to staying cool and adding shade while spending time outside this season. Below, find their tips so you can enjoy hosting outdoors – no matter the temperature.

Whether you're prepping a small backyard for summer hosting or you're gearing up your large outdoor living room for an evening get-together, these six hosting tips can ensure a summer full of refreshingly cool outdoor parties.

1. Create Spots of Shade

It's always a good idea to have some shaded areas in your backyard. Even if you love soaking up the sun, some guests might prefer to relax in the shade. And on hot days, a shady zone can make your patio feel so much cooler.

Hosting expert Julianna McIntosh says that shaded areas are a must. 'I recommend using large umbrellas or pop-up tents to provide ample cover. Setting up comfortable seating areas under the shade with cozy cushions and fans can help guests stay cool and relaxed,’ she explains.

Things like outdoor umbrellas, small gazebos, and even tall plants can create shade in your outdoor space. And the more shading elements you have, the more outdoor space you'll be able to enjoy on a hot summer day.

2. Encourage a Flow Between Indoors and Out

If a shady space is not enough, you could combine indoor and outdoor hosting by starting the party inside and then transitioning outdoors once it's cool enough, author and entertainment expert Dawna Pitts recommends.

‘I live in very sunny Paradise Valley, Arizona, so oftentimes I hold the 'mingling hour' (the beginning forty-five minutes to an hour) inside, and then, after the sun has set enough, I love taking the party outside for comfortable dining without the sun beating down,’ she shares.

Keep exterior doors open so guests can quickly move from outside back in, and vice versa. Just make sure to use a screen door or a magnetic screen to keep unwanted pests from finding their way inside.

3. Plan a Summer Menu With Intention

A summer party calls for a seasonally appropriate menu and what you serve can make all the difference to keep guests cool. Rather than serving heavy, hot dishes and strong drinks, opt for light meals, seasonal accoutrements, and cold, refreshing cocktails.

According to luxury event planner Cassie LaMere, there are so many creative drinks to serve when hosting outdoors in the summertime. 'Serve beverages in mint julep cups with shaved ice that hold onto their cooling effect even in peak heat, or have glassware in a freezer so it presents frosted,' she suggests. It helps to set up an outdoor drink station, too, or at least a few chic ice buckets – this way, you don't have to run back inside to make another round.

As for the food, you can never go wrong with fish as the main course (grilled halibut is always a winner for an elevated but easy dish). That said, there are so many other summer foods that are worth serving at your party – like sliced fruit, melon and prosciutto platters, or cold pasta salads.

4. Incorporate Cooling Devices

Sometimes, shade is simply not enough to keep you cool while outside – especially when the summer heat surpasses 90 degrees. That's why it's a good idea to incorporate cooling units or devices into your backyard's design scheme.

If you have a covered porch, consider installing an outdoor ceiling fan to circulate air, and if you don't have a covered space, opt for a standing fan instead. If you live in a very hot climate, consider installing misters – or wire-like devices that can spray water around your patio to keep you and your guests extra cool and comfortable.

5. Use a Light Color Scheme

Light colors just make sense for outdoor summer hosting. These shades absorb less heat than darker colors do, and they can even trick your brain into feeling cooler, too.

According to our editor Jennifer Ebert, 'a lighter color scheme can completely transform how an outdoor space feels during the summer months.' She recommends utilizing a soft summer color palette of whites, warm neutrals, and pale natural tones to make patio seating areas feel fresh and more comfortable for summer hosting. 'Beyond the practical benefits, these airy hues also create a relaxed, timeless backdrop that enhances the feeling of being outdoors,' Jennifer continues.

Decor aside, you can even recommend that guests dress in light colors to help them feel even cooler as they enjoy time outside at your house.

6. Appeal to All of the Senses

Another way you can make your outdoor space feel cooler in the summer is by tapping into all of the senses. According to hosting expert Cassie LaMere, this is a key element in hosting a successful gathering. Since we've covered sight, taste, and touch, that leaves scent and sound.

'Saltwater or eucalyptus scents are refreshing and soothing,’ Cassie suggests in terms of scent. And while you can definitely buy a candle to emit a refreshing summer scent, consider planting fragrant summer flowers that will immerse your garden in cooling, fresh fragrances.

In terms of sound, Cassie suggests playing peaceful music to set the mood. 'Keep the playlist soothing with ocean waves or yacht rock; both will transport you to on-the-water instant chill vibes,' she says.

Hosting an outdoor event in the summer doesn't have to be a sweltering ordeal. Keeping you and your guests cool is simple when you follow these six tips – no matter what the mercury reads. With thoughtful preparation and creative touches, your outdoor summer party is sure to be a success.

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Contrary to popular belief, summer hosting isn't limited to the porch and the patio. If you're like me, and you're constantly telling friends and family to ‘just stay the weekend’, then hosting becomes a whole-house affair – and it requires more than laying fresh sheets on the bed in your guest bedroom.

Lucky for us, Anthropologie has just released an entire collection centered around at-home hosting. Cleverly named 'Suite Dreams', this range is brimming with hosting essentials that'll make your visitors feel like they've just checked into a 5-star resort.

Blending the French B&B aesthetic with Anthropologie’s signature whimsical flair, the collection gives classic hosting necessities a chic yet playful twist. Think soap canisters and trinket dishes painted with winged jaguars, checker-printed serving trays that look whimsical yet resort-worthy, and even decorative luggage racks that bring at-home hospitality to a new, design-led level.

My favorite features of the collection are undoubtedly the trinkets that, though small, do so much to make guest spaces look and feel thoughtfully designed. From the room key-shaped bottle opener to the hotel-inspired door hangers, these little touches go a long way in elevating guest bedrooms. But if the space needs more than that, fret not. This collection also boasts so much more, including assortment of bedsheets (like the highly-rated Maeve Organic Cotton Percale Sheet Set) and even bedroom furniture (the Tasha Lacquer Armoire is such a chic pick).

So, if hosting is your love language and you're eager to make your guests feel like they've entered a boutique hotel when they stay the weekend at your house, then Anthropologie's Suite Dreams Collection is what you need to shop. Find my top picks from the collection below.

Shop Anthropologie's Suite Dreams Collection

With Anthropologie's Suite Dreams Collection, your guest suite is sure to feel like it belongs in a 5-star retreat – so much so that your visitors may never want to leave the room.

But if there's one thing that'll make them eager to venture elsewhere, it's an outdoor party – and we have the perfect outdoor hosting checklist that'll help you plan for the occasion.

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Most tablescapes are assembled with the same features – a grounding tablecloth, plates and cutlery, glassware, and a decorative centerpiece. But the best tablescapes include an additional element – a set of chic napkins.

And no, we aren't talking the disposable paper variety: for an elegant table, you want cloth. Made from cotton, linen, specialty fabrics, or blends, cloth napkins take ordinary tablescapes from good to great. They're proof that you, as a host, are willing to go the extra mile to create a scene that's layered, considered, and thoughtfully designed.

The beauty of cloth napkins is that there are endless variations of them – floral, fringed, embroidered – so you're certain to find a set that matches your personal style. There are even cloth napkins that tap into this summer's top table decor trends, including Anthropologie's Bistro Tile Napkins that channel Italian summer energy and Williams Sonoma's Embroidered Gingham Napkins that look as coastal chic as can be. And since all cloth napkins are washable, you can use them again and again, for every dinner party you host this summer and for summers to come.

Ahead, find 24 picks that'll make your table setting look and feel complete this summer.

The Cut is all about Homes & Gardens helping you invest in pieces that feel current now, but won’t date as trends shift. Finds that elevate a room today and still feel right years from now. Whether it’s a sculptural accent chair or a chic pendant light, our editors will curate an edit that balances style, longevity, and quality. Consider this your shortcut to smart, beautiful shopping.

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While the best outdoor gatherings look and feel effortless, the best hosts know that the key is in the preparation. Putting in the legwork early means that your summer get-togethers will involve far less stress ahead of the event, making for a happier and more relaxed host on the day.

We've asked the experts for their top outdoor entertaining tips, from setup to cleanup – think seating layouts, shade and lighting, tableware, decor and drinks stations – for the most seamless and stylish patio hosting setup.

We have you covered with summer garden party decor and an essential outdoor entertaining checklist, as well as editor-approved buys to help you shop the best outdoor dining ideas for creating a memorable and magical event.

1. Start With a Layout That Allows Space and Flow

Ensuring that the layout of your outdoor space works for the number of guests and style of event is a crucial factor for backyard hosting. Creating 'micro-zones' that encourage guests to mingle and gather, allowing for flow between spaces to prevent overcrowding, and providing plenty of seating, lighting, and shade will all contribute to a smoothly run event.

Ensure There's Ample and Flexible Seating

While your outdoor living room ideas might work perfectly for your household day-to-day, when it comes to hosting, you'll need to consider more flexible seating arrangements that can be moved or adapted to suit the guest list.

'Flexibility is key in designing for entertaining, both indoors and out,' agrees Aly Morford, co-founder & principal designer at Pure Salt Interiors. 'Modular seating, like ottomans and stools, are a great way to flex with your party’s size while still keeping a curated and low-profile look when not in use.'

Make sure there are plenty of outdoor side tables for guests to put their glasses on and that furniture is lightweight and easy to move, or that you provide some elegant occasional pieces, like these Folding French rattan-style chairs from Wayfair.

Create Clearly-Defined Zones

'The biggest mistake people make with outdoor entertaining spaces is treating the yard as one undifferentiated room,' says Rebekah Zaveloff, founder of Imparfait Design Studio. 'Zoning is about giving each activity its own sense of place.'

Creating a three-zone outdoor hosting setup for dining, lounging, and late nights is the perfect way to do this. Rebekah adds, 'At our home in Michigan (pictured above), we have a pizza oven positioned close to the dining area – when you're pulling a pizza out and bringing it straight to the table, you want that energy, that heat, that theater all happening in the same breath. But the fire pit is somewhere else entirely. That's a slower, more contemplative space for lingering after dinner. Those zones need to feel different because they invite different kinds of connection.'

It's also important to pay attention to the 'flow' between those zones. 'People often overlook the in-between – the planting pockets, the moments of greenery that you move from one zone to the next,' says Rebekah. 'Those transitions matter enormously. They signal to your body: this is a new space now, shift your pace. Good outdoor design choreographs how people move through it.'

Provide Shade and Lighting

A purpose-built structure, like a pergola, not only provides shade to keep guests cool and protected from the midday sun but can make for a really atmospheric feel by night, too.

Outdoor lighting, such as the statement pendant light shown above, can be fitted to the crossbeams and combined with string lights and lanterns for a cozy glow. A semi-permanent structure can also be useful for attaching outdoor fans, heaters or speakers (for ambient background music) to, while the wiring can be hidden in the frame. And, if positioned close to the house, there's no need for an external power source.

2. Build a Hosting-Ready Outdoor Dining Setup

When it comes to styling an elegant summer table there are a few additional things worth considering for outdoor entertaining. First of all, it's worth investing in some outdoor-specific tableware to keep your best plates and glasses for indoor use. Colorful and washable linens will help to create a styled tablescape, while practical elements, such as substantial serveware, table weights and outdoor-safe candles, can be balanced with personal touches, for a functional yet elegant setup.

Switch to Stylish, Durable Tableware to Prevent Breakage

Outdoor-safe tableware is far more sophisticated today than the plastic and paper picnicware of old. Think vintage china-inspired melamine, scalloped edges, acrylic glasses that emulate cut crystal. Birch Lane's Cabana stripe dinner plates (pictured above) are the perfect example and come in four colors, so you can mix it up if you wish.

Melamine is a good choice for plates and bowls as it's lightweight, practically unbreakable, and comes in an array of colors and designs to suit your event. Bamboo is another great option, which is a sustainable tableware choice.

When it comes to outdoor glassware, opting for shatter-proof acrylic will take away any stress about breakages – nobody wants to be sweeping up broken glass when hosting – but don't scrimp on style either. Colored glassware is everywhere right now, and the best acrylic drinkware is just as effective, from tumblers and flutes to jugs.

Layer Linens for a Curated Look

Tablecloths aren't just for indoors; outdoor table linens can add a really chic look to your alfresco entertaining setup. And one way to make them look purposefully styled is by layering. This means starting with a tablecloth base and building on the look with linen napkins, a table runner and other details in a complementary colorway or pattern. For example, a yellow and white striped linen tablecloth (Summerill & Bishop) would pair beautifully with these Marigold block print napkins (Wayfair).

Mary-Kathryn McConaghy from Curated Events explains: 'Layering linens allows us to create visual depth and dimension without adding complexity to the experience. By introducing a secondary textile, pattern, or color through a runner or overlay, the table begins to feel more alive, more intentional, and more reflective of the overall event story.' She adds: 'Those subtle, complementary elements help guide the eye and transform a tabletop from a functional surface into part of the sensory memory of your gathering.'

Style an Outdoor Centerpiece That Feels Informal and Effortless

You can get really creative when it comes to outdoor table centerpieces. Think candles or lanterns, fruit and floral displays that incorporate edible decor and vintage decor pieces that bring a touch of whimsical garden style to the table.

Curated Events' Mary-Kathryn shares: 'The most compelling outdoor tablescapes engage more than one sense. Centerpieces with a combination of florals, fruit, candlelight, and layered textures create a feeling of natural abundance without overwhelming the table.'

'In this setting (pictured above), the grapes soften the formality of the floral design while introducing movement, color, and an element of seasonality. The goal is never decoration for decoration's sake – it's creating an environment that feels inviting, effortless, and thoughtfully considered from every seat at the table.'

Mix Up Your Serveware For Alfresco Ease

The lovely thing about entertaining outdoors is that you don't need to be as formal or rigid with your choice of serveware. Switch up traditional platters for vintage trays, rustic boards, or repurpose unexpected collected pieces.

Founder of Creative Event Catering Company, Lauren Lombardi says: When entertaining outdoors, I love selecting serveware that feels both beautiful and functional. One of my favorite approaches is to present food on trays and platters that are ready to move seamlessly from kitchen to table. Rustic wooden boards, vintage platters, woven baskets for bread, and collected ceramic pieces add warmth and character while encouraging a relaxed style of entertaining.'

'I am always drawn to pieces that feel collected rather than perfectly matched. Antique platters, weathered bowls, and heirloom-inspired serving pieces bring a sense of charm and authenticity to the table. They help create an atmosphere that feels inviting, effortless, and personal.'

Work in Some Personal Touches

A couple of thoughtful personal touches go a long way and can make your gathering (and your guests) feel extra special. They needn't take a great deal of time, effort, or expense either. A simple handwritten placecard popped in a holder, like these gold strawberry placecard holders from Tuckernuck (pictured above), creates a really elegant look.

You could also place hand-written menu cards on the tables, propped up on some tabletop easels (Amazon), pop some fresh herbs into napkin rings, or try making your own floral napkin posy using seasonal florals straight from the garden.

Personalizing glasses with name labels like these wine glass charms from Amazon, which you can write straight on to, will both help guests to keep hold of their own drinks and reduce glass usage throughout your event, so that you don't run out.

3. Don't Forget Lighting to Add Evening Ambiance

If you're hosting a late afternoon or evening event, lighting is absolutely crucial and can instantly transform a bright and breezy daytime setting into a warm and atmospheric one. Opting for multiple light sources, from string lights to table lights and pathway lighting, is one way to plan outdoor lighting like a designer – it helps to reinforce entertaining zones to create a layered and intimate scheme that works on all levels. Outdoor solar lights are ideal for entertaining as they don't have unsightly or hazardous wires. Dimmable bulbs and warm temperatures all add to ambiance.

Create an Atmosphere With Candles and Lanterns

Candlelight is unbeatable when it comes to creating an inviting and magical atmosphere, thanks to its natural warmth and hypnotic glow. However, there are safety implications of using open flames in an outdoor arrangement. A gust of wind could cause loose florals or linens to catch light and quickly become problematic.

Instead, opt for tealights in glass votives, or solar-powered flameless candles, like these real wax LED pillar candles from Amazon, which can be equally effective and are often easily managed with a remote control. Mix them up for different heights. Lanterns can also be used on tables or hung on nearby trees or hooks for added interest.

Make it Magical With Festoon and String Lights

Overhead lighting, whether string lights or festoon lighting, can bring a wonderful aura to an outdoor dining area, particularly if the lights are nestled among branches and greenery. Courtney Allison, stylist, founder of French Country Cottage, says, 'I love to layer lighting when entertaining. From candles and moody lights on the table to zig-zagged strands of lights above, it is all about creating a magic-filled ambiance for a gathering.'

Festoon lighting makes a great choice for relaxed outdoor gatherings as it brings a rustic, homespun touch that feels casually thrown together rather than styled to perfection. Claire Bassett agrees: 'Festoon lighting is my go-to – it’s super versatile, can be draped or wrapped around sheds, greenhouses, fences or trees to add comfort and warmth in the evening.' She adds a practical tip: 'The color of the cabling is important to consider – black can provide a strong contrast, while white cabling gives a lighter, softer feel when combined with the glow of the bulbs.'

'String lights are equally as impactful – they tend to be smaller than festoon lighting and are therefore better for smaller spaces, or for lighting nooks and crannies. I like to wrap string LEDs around objects or plants, such as trees or foliage, as this can act as a nicely lit backdrop.'

Lead the Way With Pathway Lighting

If your outdoor entertaining area is sprawling with different zones and lacking in built-in lighting, you can easily add definition and ambiance with LED or solar pathway lighting. From clusters dotted among floral borders (like the Anthropologie Solar Dandelion Stake Lighting, pictured above), to hanging lanterns on stakes, there's such a variety to choose from.

Claire Bassett suggests, 'LED candle lanterns can be situated on the pathway leading into the garden, at the entrance to greenhouses or sheds, with various sizes creating more of a theatrical entrance or scattered throughout steps and paved spaces at different levels on the floor for a more interesting look.'

While pathway lighting is beautiful, it's also a practical choice to guide your guests around your entertaining space safely. You can make it really easy for yourself by opting for solar powered lights which come on automatically when it gets dark.

Opt For Rechargeable Table Lighting

You can easily capture that romantic and intimate European courtyard aesthetic with some thoughtfully positioned table lights. While overhead lighting brings a warm glow, portable table lights will provide directional lighting for guests to see what they're eating and aid easy conversation.

Opt for chic rechargeable touch lights (like this Cading Cordless Outdoor Table Lamp from Lulu & Georgia – pictured above) which will mean that you won't have to contend with wires in among the plates, and that they can be seamlessly worked into your tablescape, bringing height and interest. Warm color temperature bulbs will ensure the light isn't overly harsh or unnatural, and dimmable settings will allow you and your guests to tailor the brightness to suit them.

4. Set Up a Self-Serve Drinks Station

Setting up an outdoor drinks station is a wonderful way to take the pressure off the host and to encourage guests to interact in a natural way. Rose Duong, of The Wickwood Inn, in Michigan, says, 'I love outdoor self-serve bars for so many reasons. They give guests autonomy to choose whatever they like, whether that’s lots of ice or an extra olive. They free the host to mingle and actually enjoy themselves at their own party. And, maybe most important, they offer a reason for guests to prompt conversation with people they may not know, and acclimate to their surroundings at their own pace.'

Find Stylish Ways to Keep Drinks Cool

While regular ice buckets will do the job, you can create a stylish talking point by being more creative with your choice of vessel when entertaining outdoors. Lauren Lombardi says, 'Some of the most charming entertaining details come from reimagining everyday objects. Rather than traditional beverage tubs, I often use antique bowls, terracotta pots, vintage enamel sinks, stoneware crocks, or galvanized vessels filled with ice to chill wine and beverages.'

These might be items found around your garden – a stone trough, for example – or picked up at local antique stores or estate sales. 'These unexpected pieces add personality and visual interest while serving a practical purpose,' adds Lauren. 'I especially love using terracotta pots as wine coolers. They feel natural and relaxed, complement outdoor settings beautifully, and create a collected, garden-inspired look.'

Elevate Soft Drinks With Thoughtful Details

As the host, you'll likely have your wine, beer, and cocktails covered, but don't forget the soft drinks for non-drinkers and drivers, as well as for keeping your guests hydrated in the heat. Think colorful thirst quenchers, like fresh lemonade and fragrant mocktails with pots of pick-your-own herbs to garnish with.

Courtney Murray, co-owner of luxury party rentals and event design company, Spoon + Salt, recommends: 'Prepare garnishes ahead of time. Slice citrus fruit, herbs, and other garnishes before guests arrive. Display them in small footed bowls for elevated presentation.' It's well worth investing in something like this glass footed drinks dispenser (Williams Sonoma) for showing off your beautiful beverages.

Rose Duong adds, 'An event’s color palette, setting, and theme can all provide inspiration for a signature mocktail. If it’s in a garden, for example, you can incorporate elderflower and fresh herbs. The idea is to heighten the guest experience by providing a beverage that looks and tastes delicious, and tells a story.'

Add Accessories for a Thoughtful Flourish

You can really hone in on a theme with bar accessories, from elegant garnish picks and colorful coasters and napkins, to chic bar tools, like bejeweled bottle openers.

Founder of eponymous home style store Joanna Buchanan says, 'An outdoor bar should create a sensory overload with color, pattern and whimsy. Start with a colorful tray (like the large ombre capiz trays from Joanna Buchanan), then create interest with cocktail napkins, coasters, cocktail picks and a dazzling bottle opener. I really like using natural or coastal themes as they mimic what's going on around you and really amp up the vibe of the party.'

Offer DIY Garnishes to Encourage Interaction

'A garnish station is one of the easiest ways to elevate cocktails while encouraging guests to interact and personalize their drinks,' says Lauren Lombardi. 'I love arranging seasonal garnishes on a tray with delicate and curated bowls of fresh strawberries, edible flowers, citrus wheels, and herbs, such as mint and basil. Not only does it add beautiful color to the table, but it also transforms a simple cocktail into a memorable experience.'

A set of these mini berry serving bowls from Target is ideal for small soft fruits, while you can add potted herbs, or vintage jars and bottles for flavored sugars and syrups, as well as mini vases for edible flowers.

'One of my favorite garnishes is chamomile. It brings a soft, romantic element to entertaining, with its gentle flavor and daisy-like blooms. Guests enjoy creating their own combinations, and the presentation becomes part of the decor,' adds Lauren.

5. Put Guest Comfort First

The best gatherings are those that bring a natural ease, where guests don't have to ask for anything, but this concept of 'invisible hosting' does take a little forethought and planning ahead. Check the weather forecast to ensure you have cover for all eventualities (shade, cooling and warmth), consider ways to prevent outdoor pests from ruining your event, and create a comfortable setting that brings a quiet luxury to your outdoor space, encouraging relaxed conversation and a reason to linger.

Add Coziness With Cushions and Blankets

Comfort is key if you want to create an environment where guests want to settle in. Extra outdoor throw pillows will ensure hard outdoor furniture is easier on the back, while leaving blankets out for wrapping up in as the sun goes down will be welcome additions to your backyard hosting setup.

Leigh Lincoln, co-founder and principal designer at Pure Salt Interiors, explains, 'High-quality, outdoor-grade furniture mixed with soft accents like throws and accent pillows make for a functional space that allows you and your guests to relax and stay awhile.'

Cushioned outdoor furniture that you can sink into, like these wicker swivel outdoor lounge chairs from Pottery Barn, invites your guests to get cozy and embrace the comforting environment.

Keep Bugs at Bay

There's nothing worse at an outdoor gathering than an invasion of unwanted bugs. But there are plenty of ways that you can keep them at bay without compromising on style.

These screened food domes from West Elm are chic, yet practical, while these fly fans from Amazon are battery-powered and will keep bugs away without having to cover food, so that your guests can easily reach for dishes.

As dusk arrives, biting insects can spoil the party spirit, so consider providing some natural bug spray (like Murphy's Lemon and Eucalyptus Bug Spray from Target) in discreet baskets, away from the food areas, for guests to help themselves to. Hanging some elegant citronella-scented candles like these ombre lanterns from Anthropologie brings ambiance and fragrance as well as protection.

Be Prepared For Changes in Weather

You can manage every element of your party from the food to the decor, but one thing you can't control is the weather. You can prepare for it, though. Providing a covered space that offers a cooling oasis during the hottest part of the day, and protection against wind and rain should you have an unexpected downpour, will pay dividends if the elements are against you.

'Designing a shaded space for outdoor entertaining adds longevity to your hosting throughout the season,' says Aly Morford. 'We love an integrated shade, like a draped pergola, for both its function and form. It adds a layer of texture and softness while providing a cool atmosphere – bonus points if it’s retractable.' This freestanding pergola with retractable canopy from Lowe's is under $300, making it an affordable addition to your backyard.

'And never underestimate the effect of greenery in your outdoor spaces – trees and other large foliage help keep things cool, and offer natural shade as they mature,' Aly adds.

6. Do the Prep for Food Service and Cleanup

It's easy to feel overwhelmed if you're hosting a lot of people, but the key is in the prep – if you've put in the work before the guests arrive, you'll be able to actually enjoy the party when it comes. That includes ensuring food is all but ready (bar the final touches, or a quick warm-up in the oven), drinks are chilled and mixed, the grill is clean and tools accessible, and plates and glassware are ready-to-go.

'The secret to enjoying your own party is doing the work before anyone arrives,' says Joseph Marini, event designer and author of Mastering the Art of Entertaining (SparkPress/Simon & Schuster). 'A host who’s still mixing drinks and plating food when the doorbell rings spends the gathering in the kitchen instead of with their guests. A little preparation buys you the thing you actually want, which is to be present.'

Finally, having a plan for dirty dishes, glassware, and trash as you go along (putting out accessible and stylish trash cans for guests to use, for example), will cut your cleanup time dramatically so you won't feel burnt out at the end of the night.

Set the Stage Before Guests Arrive

'Entertaining well comes down to a pre-preparation plan, from staging your hosting space to organizing your kitchen. Every staged area, whether the kitchen or a buffet table, needs room to work,' says Joseph.

Consider extra surface space, whether that means temporarily clearing a kitchen sideboard or investing in a couple of portable tables that can be used indoors or out, like this slim rectangular folding table from Lowe's.

'Even a small kitchen can be zoned ahead of time: one area for cold prep, one for staging hot food, and one for clearing dirties. If counter space is tight, keep restaurant-style bus tubs or deep bins on the floor so you can clear dirty dishes straight into them, and deal with them after the party,' adds Joseph.

Keep Drinks Well Stocked and Food Fresh

After all the hard work prepping delicious food for your guests, the last thing you'll want is for it to go cold before serving or spoil in the heat. 'Oven space is usually the bottleneck, so a restaurant-style chafing dish is always in my arsenal for keeping food warm behind the scenes,' shares Joseph.

'For cold food, keep an oversized cooler on hand and line the bottom with 6 to 8 inches of ice. I use round deli containers in quart and pint sizes for salads, dips, and the like, and tuck them right into the ice. Here’s the trick: number each lid, then number the platter or dish it will go into at serving time, so you’re never pulling containers out to guess what’s inside.' You might also want to keep a separate large coolbox outside, ready to top up the drinks station when needed, so you don't have to keep running to the fridge indoors for refills.

'Building a menu that can be served entirely at room temperature is another good way to take the pressure off,' adds Joseph. 'I also set out food on larger platters, so I’m not constantly refreshing them.'

Get the Grill Zone Ready

If you're planning on cooking on one of the best grills, the last thing you want is to open the lid and find it's not been cleaned properly from the last use, so allow plenty of time to clean your grill before you need to get the food sizzling.

Making sure that all of your grilling tools and accessories, such as aprons, charcoal (if using), spare gas cans, and dishes to serve into once the food is cooked (plus aluminum foil for keeping it warm), are close at hand will help things go smoothly. And, placing a folding table will provide extra space for tools and dishes so that you won't be fumbling around for space when the food is ready to come off the grill.

It's also worth investing in a steam grill cleaning brush for a quick and easy post-cook clean, and a small, but stylish trash can like this mint green galvanized steel lidded bucket will be so useful for disposing of meat wrappers, used foil, and kitchen towels, and save on cleanup time afterwards.

7. Consider The Final Details For an Effortless Atmosphere

Often, the more you force it, the less relaxed your event will feel, so don't fixate on trying to make things perfect. Atmosphere is everything when it comes to hosting. 'Perfection is the fastest way to ruin a party. Guests can feel a host who is performing rather than present,' warns Bryan Graybill, interior designer and seasoned host. 'I’d rather have a slightly crumpled linen cloth and a host who’s actually sitting down than a flawless table and someone hovering in the kitchen. Atmosphere is generosity; perfection is anxiety with good lighting.'

But the good news is that you can help to create an atmosphere by taking the pressure off, keeping a flexible and relaxed schedule, and adding memorable touches that engage the senses from lighting to scent and music to fresh flowers. You can also bring natural ease with elements such as fire pits to gather around, self-serve drinks, and informal sharing platters rather than plated food.

Consider All of the Senses

Good atmosphere engages all of the senses, from scent to sound. Choosing the right playlist can really set the tone for your gathering – and make sure it's not so loud that it hinders conversation. Remote-controlled speakers give you flexibility to adjust the volume from afar and ensure they're placed at a slight distance from key gathering zones.

Easy floral displays can bring a natural feel to your event – place them on the main table as well as on drinks stations and side tables – and can mirror the garden and bring color and scent. Build on the olfactory element with scented candles in garden-inspired fragrances like Jo Malone's Green Tomato Vine Candle, and opt for natural textiles and textures in table linens, cushions and blankets for tactility.

'I layer a table the way I layer a room – scent, texture, light, sound, all working quietly together,' says Bryan. 'Flowers cut from the garden that morning, never anything that looks flown in. Candles low and plentiful rather than one grand gesture. Real linen, because the hand remembers what the eye forgets. And music is the architecture of the evening – set it at the volume of a good rumor: present enough that no one fears a silence, quiet enough that no one raises their voice.'

Linger Longer With a Fire Pit

Providing a comfortable and inviting area where your guests can make themselves at home and keep warm as the evening chill starts to bite will make sure they linger, and can often end up being the best part of the party.

There's nothing like the natural glow of fire to entice guests and while a gas option might be easy, you can't beat a wood-burning fire like this Lidded Rectangle Fire Pit from Anthropologie (pictured above) with its wonderfully rust-hued patina. 'A fire pit does half my work for me,' says Bryan. 'People arrange themselves around flame the way they have for ten thousand years; no seating plan required.'

Add low-slung seating, blankets for comfort and you might even want to offer self-serve s'mores to cook over the open flame for a sweet treat. This DIY S'mores Kit from Williams Sonoma will save you the effort at the end of the night.

Keep the Schedule Relaxed

Be guided by your guests rather than sticking to a rigid timetable – it will take the pressure off and make for a far more relaxed atmosphere. Daytime events should gently move into evening without ceremony, allowing guests to come and go.

'Keep the schedule loose,' suggests Bryan. 'The best evenings have one fixed point – dinner – and everything else is allowed to drift.' And if the majority of the work is done in advance, you should be able to attend your own party stress-free. 'The host’s job is to design the gathering, then disappear into it,' adds Bryan.

Providing self-serve food that guests can keep going back to throughout the evening, rather than sitting down to a formal dinner, will keep things flexible and manage expectations. 'Sharing plates over plated courses, always,' advises Bryan. 'Passing a dish is the oldest form of conversation. The goal is for guests to feel they’ve discovered the evening rather than attended it.'

The Often-Forgotten Outdoor Essentials That Hosts Swear By

You've sorted the food, drinks, and styling touches, but there are a few not-so-glamorous but equally essential items that hosts wouldn't be without for any gathering. Make this your last-minute checklist to ensure your event goes without a hitch.

• Extension cords, power strips, and chargers: essential for any electric lighting or music that needs to be connected to an indoor power outlet. This green power strip from Target will blend in with the garden planting. If you have rechargeable lights or speakers, ensure they are fully charged in advance.
• Matches or lighters: Keep a packet on standby near your candles, grill (if it's a charcoal one), and the wood-burning fire pit. The last thing you'll want is to be hunting down a single pack of matches all evening.
• Extra candles: tealights look beautiful, but they don't last long, so stock up on a 100-pack of tealights from Amazon, and stash them away for top-ups.
• Hand towels: Have plenty on standby for spills, barbecue grease and sticky fingers.
• Bathroom essentials: even though you're hosting outdoors, your guests will be using the bathroom, so make sure it's clean and well stocked with hand soap, toilet paper, and clean towels
• Spare serving utensils: This 9-piece serving set from Walmart will have you covered if serving spoons or tongs get mixed up or misplaced.
• Tablecloth weights: Ensure that your linens stay put if there's a gust of wind. Natural shells or smooth pebbles work wonderfully as weights, or choose something that clips onto your tablecloth, like these white bird tablecloth weights from Amazon.

Successful outdoor entertaining isn’t about perfection – it’s about thoughtful preparation, comfort, and atmosphere, designed to create a memorable experience for your guests and to allow for a relaxed hosting experience for you. For more inspiration, these garden party themes will have you covered, from rustic and natural to cool coastal.

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The Fourth of July is one of the best holidays of the year. Between the parades, the backyard barbecues, the family parties, and of course, the fireworks, there's no shortage of lively celebration. But before all of the festivities and fun comes the hard part: the prep.

Like any other holiday celebration, Fourth of July parties require lots of planning and preparation. You'll want to consider everything from Fourth of July decor for the front porch to patriotic touches for the inside of your home. Even little details, like flag-inspired cocktail picks or red, white, and blue bud vases, can go a long way in making your house look extra festive. And since The Fourth is a summer holiday, you can't forget about the backyard – decorate it to theme and bring out your favorite yard games to encourage play and celebration all day long.

With so much to prepare for ahead of America's 250th birthday, I thought I'd help you out by assembling a hosting checklist – a comprehensive guide to everything you need to plan a successful Fourth of July party at home. With these recommendations in mind, your holiday party will be the talk of the town.

1. Exterior Decorations

One of the best and easiest ways to decorate your home for the Fourth of July is by putting up exterior decor – that is, flags, banners, wreaths, and yard signs. These details can instantly elevate your home's curb appeal with holiday flair.

Pleated fan flags are my personal favorite form of exterior decor. They're easy to hang from porches, railings, or fences, and if your yard doesn't have a flagpole, they act as a suitable alternative to the traditional American flag. I have my eye on this variation from Michaels – with its deep maroon color, it can add some heritage charm to your front porch this Fourth of July.

I’m a firm believer that less is more when it comes to exterior decorations. Subtle red, white, and blue touches mixed with your standard yard decor and existing greenery will create an elegant scene that you can keep up through Labor Day.

2. Interior Accessories

Though many Fourth of July celebrations are spent outside, there's no harm in refreshing your interior spaces with some patriotic touches to tap into the holiday spirit. Small details like decorative pillows, vases, and blankets can make your home look on-theme for the Fourth without going over the top.

Growing up, I remember that each summer, my mother would swap a few of the generic pillows on our couch for festive alternatives. These pillows didn't scream Fourth of July, instead, they tapped into the iconic color scheme and the stars and stripes motif to add some old-school, Americana elegance to our home. Even though these pillows were meant as holiday decor, in my eyes, they became summer decor staples that just so happened to make our house look festive. Any interior decor in America's color scheme can have the same effect in your home.

3. Tableware

Whatever type of feast you're planning – a backyard barbecue, a park picnic, a chic dinner party – you'll need Fourth of July tableware that taps into the theme.

Plates are the obvious essential, but instead of buying plain paper plates, consider Table Two Studio's American-inspired paper collection that looks even better than ceramic alternatives. Paper plates (along with non-breakable melamine dinnerware) are ideal for outdoor entertainment, but if you're hosting inside, consider something a bit more formal to set the scene, like Lenox's Gingham Dinner Plates.

While there are so many additional elements of Fourth of July table decor, another detail that I find important is the table linens. These ground the scene – whether you're setting the table for dining or lining it with trays for serving. Though these linens sit in the background, they're the quiet workhorses that pull the entire arrangement together.

4. Lawn Games

The Fourth of July is a summer holiday, which means any parties or gatherings that you're hosting will most likely take place outside. In between the meals, the chatter, and the fireworks, it helps to have some playful yard games to keep guests occupied.

Croquet is a classic choice, and a classy choice, I'll admit – perfect for those who plan to host elevated garden parties for the holiday. Other favorites include pickleball and bocce ball – two yard games that can just as easily be played on a sandy beach. And of course, there's cornhole – perhaps the most American game of them all. It wouldn't be the Fourth of July without a competitive cornhole tournament taking place amidst the hot dog eating and the beer drinking (both of which are equally as competitive, might I add).

Whatever your outdoor game of choice may be, keep it on hand during your July Fourth fête for anyone eager to take part in some friendly competition.

5. Entertainment Extras

After the exterior decor, the interior decor, the tableware, and the yard games, your Fourth of July party prep is nearly done. However, it's always a good idea to include some extra party details to ensure a successful celebration.

A cooler is an essential detail – especially if you plan on hosting your Fourth of July party outside. This way, neither you nor your guests will have to run back inside for another drink. A model like Wayfair's Cart Cooler with its deep interior and wheeled design is a perfect choice.

Secondary details like decorative string lights, patriotic pool floats, and festive cocktail picks might not be on your must-buy list, but truth be told, it's little touches like these that can make your Fourth of July party come together.

The Fourth of July is nearly here. Keep this list in mind to ensure a successful and well-styled holiday celebration.

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Nothing sets the scene for a Fourth of July party quite like festive decor. And I don't just mean flags, banners, and lawn signs; I'm talking about the table decor – the plates, the bowls, the napkins, and the platters that ground the scene with patriotic appeal.

This holiday is just as much a celebration of independence as it is an excuse to indulge in the most delicious summer foods – barbecues, cookouts, picnics, or seafood boils to mark the occasion. And a well-styled table creates a stunning backdrop for all of these festive feasts, bringing the entire holiday celebration together.

Fourth of July decoration can get rather kitschy, and I am partial to flags and bunting around the porch, but on the table, I find that simplicity yields the best look. Use the iconic red, white, and blue color scheme as a starting point, and invite subtle pops of patriotic flair here and there. You can even incorporate silver serveware or rattan table decorations to add visual interest and variety to the scene. Ultimately, the key is to choose table decorations that tap into the holiday theme but remain timeless by design – this way, you can reuse them for events well past the Fourth of July and for summers to come.

Whatever type of Fourth of July feast you're planning – a picnic in the park, a backyard barbecue, or an evening dinner under the fireworks – this festive table decor will ensure the scene is as stylishly on-theme as can be.

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We've all been there – the summer party outside, the ceramic dinnerware left on precarious surfaces, the unfortunate but inevitable shattering. It's not that you weren't extra careful; it's just that delicate materials, patio slabs, and maybe a few cocktails don't mix well.

Outdoor-friendly tableware becomes the obvious alternative to avoid this disaster, but in the past these hardwearing dishes have leaned more campside that chic. However, 2026 has been the summer for shatterproof tableware as stylish as their ceramic counterparts, and Drew Barrymore's 12-Piece Dinnerware Set from Walmart is the latest launch to prove outdoor dinnerware can be every bit as aesthetic as indoor.

This dinner set is bold, lively, and perfectly on-trend for summer tablescapes. Plus, it's just as design-oriented as the collectable plates and platters you only take out for special occasions. The only differences are that this set is completely safe for outdoor use and it's a bargain find, at less than $30.

An accidental drop to the floor means nothing to these melamine dishes from Drew's Beautiful Line at Walmart. In fact, they're made to withstand the impact without showing signs of wear. You can bring them to picnics in your local park, use them for outdoor dinner parties, and even trust them in the hands of uncareful children.

And this set isn't all function and no form. The green and blue color scheme is bang on trend for summer 2026, and the sardine is the motif of the season. Layer it with a gingham green tablecloth, rattan placemats, and some simple white linen napkins for a table that feels fun yet elegant.

Along with this 12-piece dinnerware set, Drew has released additional summer table decor details and hosting accessories that can complete the look. This Sardine Serving Bowl, for instance, is the perfect dish for a large summer salad, and this Sardine Oval Platter is the ideal tray for serving dessert after dinner. The Rattan Drink Basket and the Rattan Tray act as the perfect complementary details – bringing a touch of texture to the scene while tapping into the same color scheme as the plates and bowls themselves.

Together, these tableware details can create a tablescape that's fresh, inviting, stylish, and outdoor-safe. But if you're looking for more decor to complete the scene, find everything I'd style alongside Drew Barrymore's 12-Piece Melamine Dinnerware Set, below.

How To Style Drew Barrymore's Dinnerware Set

Shop More Outdoor Dinnerware

Need more outdoor-safe dinnerware options? Here are additional melamine-made styles that are perfect for outdoor use and look just as chic as Drew Barrymore's sardine dinnerware set.

Drew Barrymore's 12-Piece Melamine Dinnerware Set will help you make sure that outdoor hosting is just as thoughtful, considered, and design-driven as indoor hosting. Not only that, but with their melamine materiality, these dinnerware sets eliminate the fear of shattering your favorite ceramics.

But before the dinnerware sets and tablescaping can even happen, you need to make sure your outdoor dining room is up to par. Lucky for you, we have tons of ideas to create a space that's fit for entertaining and endlessly inviting, too.

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The World Cup is officially here. If you can't make it to the stadium to support your favorite team, then hosting an at-home World Cup watch party is the next best thing – that is, as long as it's decked out with the best decor.

Of course, I don't expect you to inundate your house with blow-up soccer ball balloons or turf-inspired tablecloths to honor the occasion. Instead, it's important to choose decor with longevity – that is, decor that can work for a World Cup watch party, but be used in other contexts, too. Like these green wine glasses from Pottery Barn or this black and white speckled serving platter from Hudson Grace, sometimes it helps to decorate with colors that remind you of the event – and for a soccer tournament, that's green, black, and white. You can even draw inspiration from your team's colors (go USA!) to tastefully set the scene for your World Cup watch party.

Though I do think it's best for your World Cup party decor to lean more timeless in style, that's not to say you can't invite themed decor into the mix. In fact, I think you should. Mount an international flag banner behind your TV (like this one from Etsy), use soccer ball-inspired paper plates for eating (these from Meri Meri minimize dishwashing), and keep a cup of cocktail picks with soccer ball charms on your bar cart. When tapping into a theme, simplicity is key. Don't overdo it and be sure to balance it out with neutral, complementary decor. This way, your World Cup party will look like an elevated affair rather than a child's birthday party.

There are tons of matches left to be played until the World Cup final on July 19th, which means there's so much time for hosting watch parties and decorating your house with the best World Cup-inspired decor. So below, shop everything you need to create a dream starting lineup of chic watch party decor.

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As the weather brings longer, warmer days that stretch late into the evenings, our way of living naturally becomes more transitional between indoors and out. But, far more than just a backyard, or a single-use patio, our outdoor spaces can be transformed into multi-functional extensions of our homes, where we can dine, entertain, and relax with friends and loved ones.

The key to achieving this successfully lies in creating intentional outdoor hosting zones. From outdoor living room ideas to outdoor dining ideas and magical spaces to spend an alfresco aperitivo hour, these defined, but evolving areas, will invite guests to naturally flow easily from one to the other, as the day progresses into the evening.

With these expert styling tips and tricks, you can master this 3-zone outdoor hosting concept, whatever size or shape your space, for seamless hosting throughout the summer months and beyond.

Zone One: The Dining Space – The Heart of Hosting

Sharing a meal is the perfect way to spark conversation and conviviality, so the heart of your outdoor entertaining space should be the dining 'room'. As such, it should feel comfortable enough to encourage a relaxed atmosphere, but also be thoughtfully styled, to show your guests that you've really made the effort to help them feel special and welcomed.

Choose a Sheltered Spot for Shade and Protection

A back porch or purpose-built pergola offers the perfect ready-made shade from the sun and protection from the elements for your dining area. This beautiful sunset view is enhanced by the natural unpainted wood of the pergola and dining furniture, while the floral arrangement echoes the vibrant colors of the sunset beyond, for a naturalistic and elevated evening atmosphere.

Founder of Well by Design, Lauren Sullivan, explains: 'We preferred the dining area underneath the covered porch here for the ability to use the space throughout the warmer months – even during intense sun or summer rain – while still feeling completely connected to the surrounding landscape. I also think having a more sheltered dining area makes people naturally want to linger a little longer at the table.'

If you don't have a porch or pergola, you can opt for a stylish outdoor umbrella, which will allow you to be more flexible with where you set up your dining zone.

Opt for a Statement Dining Table and Relaxed Seating

A dining table can make a statement outdoors as well as indoors, and this one is a lovely example of how to be creative and achieve that indoor/outdoor feel. This pretty tiled tabletop looks striking, will withstand the elements, and is easy to wipe clean, negating the need for tablecloths or placemats.

Jamie Robb, Creative Director at Marlborough Tiles, explains: 'A beautifully tiled surface brings depth, texture, and individuality to a piece like a dining table, transforming something purely practical into a focal point. Whether using plain glaze colors or hand painted patterns, tiles allow you to create a table that feels entirely bespoke – full of character, artistry, and permanence. Beyond aesthetics, it’s also an incredibly durable choice; a well-tiled table is designed to be lived with, enjoyed daily, and admired for years to come.'

Meanwhile, the deep basket chairs with soft cushioned seating are proof that you can dine in comfort outdoors. If your guests are comfortable, they will feel more relaxed, and your event will take on more of an informal atmosphere, inspiring lively conversation and the chance to sit back and relax after the plates have been cleared away. The pretty floral cushions tap into the rustic country look here, whilst the lacy greenery on the tables and colored glassware add extra layers of texture and hue.

Create a Layered Tablescape Inspired by the Garden

When it comes to spring tablescaping ideas, Founder of eponymous lifestyle store Joanna Buchanan explains, 'I take inspiration from my garden and love to layer colors, patterns and textures. I definitely don't see minimal tables as being effective outside. It needs to be a full-blown statement.'

In this example, Joanna has leaned into the colors and textures of the garden, with sky blue, floral block-printed linens, and napkin rings embellished with bejewelled bees and butterflies. 'They are simply the perfect accessory for outdoor entertaining and a wonderful conversation starter,' she adds.

And there's one non-negotiable in Joanna's book. 'You have to have fresh flowers on the table – simply cut from what is around you for a seamless effect.'

Finally, if you're hosting a day-to-evening event, 'don't forget candles,' says Joanna. 'It's always magical to eat by candlelight outdoors.'

Ensure Proximity to the Kitchen Space

It may sound simple, but ensuring your dining area is located within easy reach of where you'll be serving food from will make your job as a host so much easier. If your guests are seated at the far end of the yard, even if it feels like the perfect spot, you'll have a long way to bring dishes back and forth and risk food being spilled or getting cold.

You may have a fully functional outdoor kitchen setup, or one of the best grills in the backyard, but if you're going to be prepping your food in your indoor kitchen, you'll ideally want your guests sitting as close as possible. A kitchen hatch for passing dishes through, as shown in the above image, or simply some French doors opening onto your dining terrace are perfect solutions.

'We prioritize indoor/outdoor living in all of our designs, but a functional connection to the kitchen is paramount for easy and enjoyable outdoor living. If a full doorway from the kitchen to the backyard isn't possible for the design, we love a pass-through kitchen window – this becomes a design feature with bar seating, unique materials, and increased livability for both the interior and for outdoor entertaining,' explains Leigh Lincoln, Co-Founder and Principal Designer at Pure Salt Interiors.

Shop the Outdoor Dining Edit

Zone Two: The Lounge – Relaxed, Social, and Flexible

Outdoor living room ideas should cover all bases, from morning coffee to pre-dinner drinks and late afternoon relaxing. Comfort is, of course, key, so ditch the more structural furniture and turn to softer silhouettes and textures, with modular or easy-to-move options, allowing you the flexibility to change the flow of the space depending on the form your gathering takes, or your number of guests.

Bring in Elevated Yet Comfortable Seating

This serene, neutral space incorporates natural materials, like wooden furniture and a rattan pendant light (perfect for changing the atmosphere after dark), with white upholstery for a clean and minimal finish. The wide chairs and deep cushions beckon guests to get comfortable, whilst still feeling elegant.

'Given the scale of the outdoor areas of this property, it was important to thoughtfully program each space with its own purpose and atmosphere. This more formal outdoor lounge sits adjacent to the great room, with firmer, more upright seating designed to better suit evening entertaining,' says interior designer Gianpiero Gaglione.

This intimate, yet elevated seating arrangement is the ideal breakout area for enjoying a pre-dinner aperitif while your guests warm up for the evening ahead.

Add Outdoor Rugs and Soft Textiles to Anchor the Space

If there's no clear structure, whether a pergola, patio or low-walled area, to set up your lounging zone in, create your own. This is the perfect way to use an outdoor rug, as it will instantly define an area around which to arrange your furniture, and it will give you total flexibility over where you want your guests to sit.

This alfresco French cottage range from McGee & Co has an elegant countryside feel, thanks to the rattan, but is softened with plenty of throw cushions in mix-and-match striped and gingham patterns and a soft palette of greens and blues. The striped rug brings a sense of order and timelessness, while anchoring the space that is also beautifully framed by the boughs of the trees above.

Use Low Tables for Drinks and Candles

A key differentiator between dining and relaxing areas, is the table height. Outdoor coffee tables work wonderfully as part of an outdoor lounge area, alongside lower slung, deep seating, and they are the perfect level for placing candles, drinks and snacks on without obstructing the eyeline.

Interior designer, Wendy Glaister, adds: 'Part of the allure of a beautiful outdoor space is the romance of an evening filled with candles and a cozy fire. I like to find interesting tables to set around my seating areas for visual interest.'

Lower tables are an excuse to get creative with outdoor candle ideas. 'Outdoor, battery-operated candles come on with just a click of a remote and suddenly the space is alive with quiet, flattering light,' says Wendy. 'A drink in a sparkling glass reflects the candlelight and voila! A romantic getaway has been created in your own backyard.'

Soften Zone Borders with Delicate Planting

The idea of creating hosting zones isn't to add hard, physical borders to separate different areas of the backyard, but to incorporate subtle definition with visual tricks. One of the loveliest ways to achieve this is with delicate planting. In the above example, a low concrete wall is softened with wispy grasses that bring movement and texture.

The best ornamental grasses for privacy make the perfect choice, as they'll not only offer a quiet space away from onlooking neighbors, or the hubbub of the more lively areas of your gathering, but also protect guests from the wind.

You can achieve a similar effect with climbing plants over a pergola for a natural canopy, or a simple, low floral border. It's about hinting at these different spaces without defining them too rigidly.

Shop the Outdoor Lounge Edit

Zone Three: The Late-Night Space – Atmosphere and After-Hours Appeal

As night falls and the last of the plates have been cleared, you'll likely want to usher your guests to a softer seating area to enjoy an after-dinner drink or two. Think casual clusters of seating around a cozy firepit, baskets of blankets for wrapping up in, and even a bar cart on hand for effortless refills. The addition of twinkling string lights and candles will create a warm and inviting atmosphere, bringing a natural ease and elegance to the end of your evening.

Add a Fire Pit for an Evening Glow

There's something about fire that is so magical and mesmerizing and a firepit is a wonderful way to draw your guests away from the table to sit in comfort and enjoy the beauty of an open flame. This square firepit from Wayfair is light for maneuverability, but you could go for more of a statement piece or a permanent fixture, such as an in-built outdoor fireplace.

In a real wood, (not gas-powered), firepit you could add scented wood or colored fire sticks (like these from Anthropologie) for a full sensory experience. Alternatively have some S'mores ingredients on standby for a sweet after-dinner treat.

Make it Magical with Ambient Lighting

As dusk falls, clever outdoor lighting ideas can take the look and feel of your entertaining space from day to night with an ethereal ease. You could opt for candlelight, position string lights in trees or around fixed structures, or go for more permanent garden lighting solutions, such as garden uplighters, as shown above, for a beautiful and magical effect.

'Garden uplighting transforms an outdoor space into an experience,' explains Jessica Bennett, Creative Director of Alice Lane Interior Design. 'It casts a soft glow through layered landscaping and highlights architectural beauty, while creating an atmosphere that invites guests to linger after sunset. It’s the perfect backdrop for evening parties and candlelit conversations.'

Curate More Intimate Seating Clusters by Night

Getting cozy and hunkering down for quieter and more relaxed moments, by the warmth of a fire, with a nightcap in hand, is the perfect way to conclude an evening gathering. This might involve creating a focal point to center seating around, allowing for more flexible and casual seating arrangements, providing comforting touches such as throw pillows and blankets to snuggle up in, and adjusting lighting for more intimacy.

Dee Dee Lear, Founder and Principal Designer at Delaney's Design created the above space and explains: 'When designing outdoor spaces for use after dark, we take great care in considering clearances, sightlines and, of course, lighting. In this cozy outdoor space, the topography required small retaining walls to create a flat surface for the firepit and gathering area, which offered an opportunity for additional seating and a place to install downlighting.'

'The choice of a circular design with dimmable downlighting and inconspicuous, flexible seating blends with the landscape and enhances the natural aesthetic. We created an intimate and quaint gathering space that feels both effortless and organic.'

Set up a Designated Drinks Station for a Magical Cocktail Hour

Creating a designated area for drinks will not only ease your load as the host – because guests can help themselves – but help to encourage guests to move from one zone to the next as the evening progresses. As the sun goes down, the addition of some pretty lighting, like these lace lanterns from Anthropologie will bring the space to life.

Whilst it can be lovely to wheel out a stylish outdoor bar cart, it's not the only way to create a stylish drinks station. You can easily curate your own using a side table, dressed with an elegant tray and some summer cocktail essentials.

Alternatively, get creative and stack boxes or wooden crates at different levels to provide surfaces for cocktail garnishes, ice buckets, napkins and stirrers. Drape string lights around your bar area or suspend LED lanterns from low-hanging branches above for an ethereal look. You could even lead your guests from the dining table to the after-dinner drinks area by lighting the garden path.

Shop the Outdoor Evening Edit

Bringing It All Together: How to Create Flow and Cohesion

The key to successful zoning is in creating a cohesive look in terms of color palette, materials and finishes. If you combine a dining area with a rustic aesthetic with a living space that is colorful and contemporary, it will jar and feel thrown together as opposed to intentional. This cohesion is also important when it comes to the flow of your outdoor hosting spaces. Guests should be able to easily move from one space to another throughout the course of your event, from dinner to dusk, and visually defining hosting areas with clear pathways and visual connection will ensure that this happens naturally.

Ensure Visual Continuity With the Palette and Materials

Creating continuity isn't just about the connection of your outdoor spaces but also with the overall aesthetic of your home. In the above example, a minimalist yet comfortable palette of off-white, natural wood, and rattan connects the three hosting zones beautifully, whilst each still has its own clearly defined purpose.

Designer Gianpiero Gaglione explains: 'The garden wraps around this LA home, which is designed in an L-shaped configuration, allowing nearly every room to maintain a strong visual and physical connection to the outdoors. Large double doors throughout further blur the boundary between inside and out, creating a seamless flow across the property.'

'For the exterior spaces, we intentionally kept the palette cohesive, opting for crisp whites and fresh, understated tones throughout. A bar anchors one side of the garden alongside an adjacent dining area, whilst a firepit with relaxed lounge seating creates a more intimate gathering space nearby.'

Create Zones Without Rigid Separation

One of the most important things to remember with the 3-zone hosting concept is to ensure freedom to flow between areas easily and naturally. As well as creating soft borders with planting, another subtle visual trick is to use contrasting flooring surfaces to create differentiation. In the above example, slate flagstones demarcate the lounge area, whilst red brick paving indicates the move into the dining zone. This is a far more fluid solution than adding walls and physical structures, which could make your outdoor space feel smaller and more disjointed.

Designer Sally Wilkinson explains 'For this client's outdoor spaces, we wanted a clear distinction between the lounging and dining areas without making the terrace feel overly formal or disconnected. The shift in flooring material subtly defines each zone, while the consistent palette ensures the space to still feel cohesive and relaxed. We wanted the spaces to feel less prescribed and unfold more naturally within the setting.'

Make Zones Multi-Functional in Smaller Spaces

Even if you don't have an expansive outdoor space, there are plenty of ways to prepare a small backyard for summer hosting. One way to achieve this is by overlapping zones or giving them a multi-functional purpose.

Brittny Smith, Founder of Homesmith Design, says, 'You don’t need a large backyard to create a space that works for entertaining, you just need to be intentional about how each area functions. On this patio, the bar, dining, and lounge zones are layered so they can overlap. The bar works for drinks but also doubles as a casual dining area, while the lounge anchors the space for conversation. That flexibility allows the space to feel more generous than it actually is and keeps everything connected when you’re hosting.'

This free-flowing feeling is also achieved through subtle repetition of material, color and pattern, whilst the covered structure makes this a functional all-weather space.

Consider Seasonal Adaptability

As wonderful as it is to enjoy hosting outdoors when the weather is at its best, it's a shame not to be able to make use of your patio space all year round. Considering all-weather solutions is a good idea if you want to make your hosting zones as flexible as possible. To achieve this, you will naturally need some cover to keep the area dry, but other home comforts, such as heating and indoor-style lighting can help, too. And, by installing a blank structural canvas, you'll have the freedom to ring the changes with decor as the seasons come and go.

'Adding heaters and speakers to a canopy setup can completely change how the space feels and how often it gets used,' explains Pamela Lastiri, Founder and Principal of Pamela Lastiri Interior Design Studio. 'We intentionally kept our structure fairly restrained, so it could evolve. It’s much easier to rotate furniture, textiles, and styling seasonally than to commit to bold colors or patterns within the structure itself.'

A well-designed patio isn’t just beautiful – it’s thoughtfully zoned. By creating distinct yet connected areas for dining, lounging, and late-night gatherings, any outdoor space can feel elevated, functional, and effortlessly sociable. For more ideas on how to spruce up your patio, take a look at Editor, Jen Ebert's Very British Edit – a guide to creating a well-designed outdoor space for spring.

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Nothing says summer like a good old soiree, whether it's a formal alfresco dinner or an intimate early evening apéritif in the late sunshine, and beautiful thrifted treasures will help to bring a timeless, lived-in charm to your outdoor set-up – no matter the occasion.

Nailing summer outdoor dining ideas starts with investing in good-quality thrifted outdoor decor pieces. Don't get us wrong, there's plenty of chic new outdoor furniture and tableware to shop (I've had my eye on Serena & Lily's stylish Riveria dining set for quite some time), but nothing beats decorating with vintage when it comes to elevating your hosting game.

From luxurious silver platters to romantic table linens, we asked interior designers for their go-to thrifted picks to bring an outdoor get-together to life. 'When it comes to hosting summer gatherings, thrifted pieces are honestly where the magic happens because they give a tablescape that layered, collected-over-time feeling that brand-new items just can’t replicate,' explains interior designer Jennifer Hunter. 'It’s less about matching and more about building a tablescape.'

1. Outdoor Furniture

Vintage furniture is the first step towards an effortlessly chic backyard that feels just as considered as your home's interior. Whether it's a pair of rattan loungers to aid late-night conversations or a wrought-iron bistro set for brunch with friends, thrifted outdoor furniture is perfect for gardens in need of a little elegance.

Interior designer, Shani Core, sourced a second-hand dining set (pictured above). She explains, 'Here we took a high-low approach and found the vintage Brown Jordan dining set at a local Palm Beach resale shop. It was in terrible condition, so we had everything powder-coated in fresh white.'

Paired with vintage ceramics, colorful tableware, and fresh blooms, the look comes to life. 'The antique turquoise planter centerpiece was a thrifted find, and when combined with a fabulous floral arrangement and beautiful china, you would never know!' says Shani. 'When you start with a great quality foundation such as this vintage Brown Jordan dining set, it’s simple to style a beautiful summer table.'

2. Pitchers & Vases

It's not just outdoor seating that can make or break your outdoor dining area. 'Vintage pitchers are a favorite of mine during the summer months,' says hosting and vintage expert Rachel Leonard Kennedy. 'They’re beautiful for serving lemonade or iced tea, but they also double as casual floral arrangements filled with grocery store flowers or greenery clipped from the yard.'

Interior designer, Jennifer Hunter designed her dining table (pictured above) around one large centerpiece, scattering Summer table decor around a central floral arrangement. She explains, 'The goal is to make each piece feel as if it landed there naturally. I like to build table settings organically, starting with a central piece and letting everything evolve outward from there. I’ll anchor the table with something found, like a vintage pitcher, and often repurpose it as a vase filled with loose, seasonal stems.'

3. Tableware

'Some of the most charming hosting pieces are the ones with a little history behind them,' says Rachel. 'I almost always thrift serving platters, woven baskets, vintage glassware, linen napkins, candle holders, and small ceramic bowls when preparing for summer gatherings.'

'Vintage glassware mixed with simple everyday dishes creates that collected-over-time look that feels both elegant and relaxed,' adds Rachel. 'I especially love collecting mismatched pieces because they make guests feel relaxed. A perfectly uniform table can sometimes feel intimidating, but mixed textures and collected items create an atmosphere that says, “Come as you are.”

Jennifer's approach is similar. 'I layer in smaller pieces like candlesticks, little bowls, mismatched vessels, tucking them in rather than spacing them out too perfectly,' she says. 'It should feel collected, not arranged. I also like to pull in items from around my home to give the table a lived-in quality. It could be a small dish from the kitchen, a stack of plates, or an object that wasn’t originally meant for entertaining. Those unexpected elements are what make the table feel personal and a bit undone in the best way.'

4. Good Linen

Easy to overlook, you may be surprised to hear that thrift stores are often stocked with all sorts of outdoor table linens that make outdoor dining feel all the more special and inviting.

'I love layering woven textures with softer elements like linen napkins or slightly wrinkled tablecloths because it keeps the space feeling approachable,' says Jennifer. 'When styling thrifted hosting pieces, I focus less on perfection and more on creating a table that feels lived-in and welcoming. Summer gatherings should feel effortless, never overly staged.'

'For summer specifically, I tend to keep the color palette natural and sun-washed; creams, soft blues, faded greens, warm wood tones, and touches of citrus or fresh herbs scattered throughout the table,' says Rachel.

5. Bar Carts

Whether it's an ornate metal antique or a beachy wicker style, a beautiful bar cart can elevate your outdoor hosting set-up with an unexpected, luxurious feel – they're ideal for indoor-outdoor summer hosting.

'A rattan bar cart is the perfect vehicle for so many thrifted entertaining essentials,' explains Shani. Referring to the project above, she says, 'A vintage ice bucket holds champagne while a thrifted bowl holds citrus. The round upholstered ottoman on wheels was also a thrifted find.'

Smaller side tables and stools can double up as drinks stations, too. 'We set up a thrifted green garden stool as a side table to hold a cold drink, and we re-purposed a thrifted blue and white Murano glass carafe as a vase holding monstera leaves from the garden,' says Shani. 'I’m always on the lookout for garden stools to be used as extra seating or side tables, small planters or cups to hold cut citrus for drinks and herbs as shown on the ottoman, and any opportunity to bring a little color to a vibrant summer tablescape!'

Vintage-Inspired Essentials For Summer Hosting

'New items can sometimes feel overly coordinated or sterile, while vintage and secondhand finds bring warmth, texture, and character into a space,' says Rachel. 'They tell a story before the meal is even served. At the end of the day, the most beautiful summer gatherings aren’t the ones where everything matches perfectly. They’re the ones where people feel comfortable lingering a little longer at the table.'

Be sure to also explore our piece on the 7 things interior designers say you should always try to thrift.

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I’ve already had endless fun experimenting with the Ninja SLUSHi, so imagine my surprise when a late-night launch introduced me to the new Ninja SLUSHi Twist, a two-in-one machine designed to swirl together dual flavors.

Built with the same technology as the Ninja SLUSHi Max – including rapid freezing, support for higher-alcohol mixes, and generous capacity – the dual-canister Twist feels like the ultimate party upgrade for memorable summer entertaining.

The internet quickly agreed that this is the best Ninja appliance for summer, with the machine shockingly selling out in only two hours, according to Ninja's socials. The good news? A restock is already on the way, and you can sign up for alerts through Ninja’s website – this is one release you won’t want to miss the second time around.

This new machine is the answer Ninja fans have been searching for, as until now, creative followers have been cleverly pairing two standard Ninja SLUSHi machines to recreate the classic ICEE-style mixes of our childhoods. the Ninja SLUSHi Twist helps you to effortlessly combine two flavors in a single system, with no mess and no fuss.

The dual canisters can be used independently or together to blend any combination of slush, opening up near-endless flavor possibilities. A manual rotating base also lets you swirl the drinks for a visually striking, layered presentation.

Using the SlushAssist function integrated in the Ninja SLUSHi Max I recently reviewed, the Dual SlushAssist™ Technology senses ingredients in each vessel and auto-adjusts temperatures, so both drinks come out perfect, every time. No ice or blenders required.

Perhaps my favorite potential use for the SLUSHi Twist is the ability to make two different drinks to suit everyone at a party. One side can be used for a fruit slush and the other for milkshakes, for instance.

Alternatively, at a family gathering, one side could be used for child-friendly juice while the other serves an adult-friendly alcoholic slush (just be sure to label which is which to avoid any serious summer hosting mistakes). It’s the perfect upgrade for regular hosts looking to impress.

Signing up for stock updates is simple. Simply add your email for notifications on the Ninja SLUSHi Twist page to know when the next drop hits.

What Else to Shop

If you do not want to wait for the restock or wish to set up your station now ahead of delivery, we have rounded up a few of the next-best machines and fun accessories to prepare your home for summer slushes.

All prices correct at time of publication.

If you are getting excited for summer, consider some chef-approved ice cream social ideas to help your party planning along.

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The Opening Note

This week on The Very British Edit, I’m turning my attention to one of my favourite moments of the year: Easter – and, more specifically, what I’m shopping to make it feel special at home.

By the time Easter arrives, everything has shifted. The light lingers a little longer, the air feels softer, and the garden begins to stir back to life. It’s that gentle seasonal change that always inspires how I shop for the occasion.

I find myself drawn to pieces that reflect spring – fresh linens, simple ceramics, and those small details that quietly elevate an Easter table without feeling overdone. It’s less about following trends and more about choosing things that feel right for the season and the way you want to gather.

Hosting an Easter party has become something of a ritual for me, and I’ve learned that a few well-chosen pieces can completely shape the atmosphere. I always start with the Easter table. A beautiful tablecloth, a set of glassware you don’t use every day, or a new serving piece can instantly make things feel considered without any fuss. This is where I naturally lean into a few Easter decorating ideas – but in a way that feels subtle and lived-in rather than styled for show.

The same goes for the food. I tend to return to a small collection of Easter recipes (this grilled lamb with carrot pilaf is a personal favorite) – dishes that are seasonal, straightforward, and designed for sharing. Over time, I’ve found that having a handful of reliable favorites takes the pressure off and allows you to actually enjoy the day.

What I love most about Easter is how effortless it can feel when you get the balance right. It’s not about doing more, it’s about choosing well – shopping thoughtfully, cooking food that nourishes you, and creating memories with the people you love most of all.

In this week’s edit, I’ll be sharing exactly what I’m shopping this season to pull together an Easter home. It’s all about keeping things simple, seasonal, and genuinely enjoyable to host.

The Edit: Easter Decor

In the Spotlight: Burleigh

My adoration for the heritage pottery brand Burleigh has been passed down through generations. It was always there, woven into my family life. My parents had it, my grandparents, too, and so some of my earliest memories of a well-laid table are tied to those familiar pieces.

It’s one of those brands that stays with you. You grow up with it, and then, almost without thinking, you find yourself coming back to it for your own home.

Founded in 1851 in Stoke-on-Trent, Burleigh has been handcrafting earthenware for generations and still operates today from Middleport Pottery. That sense of continuity is part of what makes it so special. In a world that moves quickly, there’s something incredibly grounding about a brand that has stayed true to its roots – still using traditional techniques, still making each piece by hand, and still producing everything in the UK.

What I’ve always loved most is the craftsmanship. Burleigh’s signature tissue-transfer decorating is done entirely by hand, a slow and highly skilled process that gives each piece its own character. No two are ever completely identical, which only adds to their charm. Patterns like Blue Asiatic Pheasants feel timeless – instantly recognisable, but never overdone. They carry their history lightly, in a way that feels relevant rather than nostalgic.

Burleigh has never been about saving things for special occasions. It’s meant to be used. There’s a comfort in that – plates, cups, and teapots that are part of everyday life yet still make the table feel considered. That balance of practicality and beauty is something I’ve come to appreciate more and more over time.

It’s also been lovely to see Burleigh reach a wider audience in recent years. For a long time, it felt like a very British secret, something you mostly encountered here. Now, with its growing presence in the United States, it’s finally getting the recognition it deserves internationally – while still holding onto everything that makes it distinct.

At this time of year, especially, when the light shifts and we start to gather again, I find myself naturally reaching for it. A simple table, something homemade, a pot of tea shared slowly – Burleigh just fits into those moments so effortlessly.

That’s what keeps me coming back to it. It’s not about trends or reinvention. It’s about familiarity, craftsmanship, and pieces that carry meaning. The kind of things that quietly become part of your life – and, if you’re lucky, get passed down through it too.

In the Queue

Next week on The Very British Edit, I’m focusing on a part of the home that’s easy to overlook, but makes all the difference, especially in spring: the entryway.

I’ve come to think of the entryway as more than just a practical spot. It sets the tone. A few small changes – a lighter touch with materials, a vase of something seasonal (daffodils, tulips, or lilies), a bit of space to let the light in – can completely change how it feels to walk through the door. Nothing complicated, just thoughtful.

What I like most is how simple it can be. You don’t need to redo everything. Just a few considered updates can make the whole house feel lighter, calmer, and more in tune with the season.

Next week, I’ll share how I refresh my own entryway for spring – the pieces I rely on and the small shifts that make it feel quietly put together and ready for the months ahead.

The Very British Edit is a shoppable guide to beautiful living with a distinctly British twist. From heritage patterns to timeless decor inspirations, each edition blends personal insight, design expertise, and a love of craftsmanship. It is stylish, trustworthy, and endlessly inspiring.

One-Pan Wisdom

When I was a little girl, my grandmother’s lasagna felt like an event before it even hit the table. You smelled it first – hours of slow heat building in the house, curling up the stairs, threading its way into every room. And then you saw it: a pan so heavy it seemed to require ceremony. But the real thrill – the part I still remember as vividly as anything – was the treasure hunt hidden inside each slice.

My grandmother tucked mini meatballs into the layers like little jewels. I would take my fork and quietly excavate, eyes flicking to my brothers’ plates to see if they’d been luckier than me. Did he get two? Did I only get one? It was pure childhood math, performed with total seriousness.

That memory is one reason I dedicated an entire chapter in my book Mother Sauce: Italian American Family Recipes and the Story of the Women Who Created Them (Artisan Books) to what I call 'Layered and Baked. To me, these dishes embody the unmistakable allure of home cooking.

Sure, sautéed onions smell wonderful, but they’re a quick flash of perfume. The oven is different. The oven is a slow build: the kind of scent that you can smell in an apartment building the moment you step off the elevator. It’s pervasive in the best way, like the house is quietly telling you, come in, stay a while.

That aroma became a sort of homing device for me when my boys turned into teenagers – the age when they start orbiting away from you, pulled by the promise of independence and pizza with friends. I noticed that even when they were halfway out the door, a long-cooking dish had a way of stopping them in their tracks. 'See you later,' they’d say – then pause. 'Wait… when is that going to be ready?'

The Delicious Precursor to Casseroles

It’s funny to me that we talk about casseroles as this very American mid-century idea –the bubbling dish, the apron, the oven door shut with a hip. But Italian American kitchens had their own version long before the 1960s put a name to it. Baked ziti and lasagna are, in many ways, the precursors to the American casserole: make-ahead meals that feed a crowd, travel well, reheat beautifully, and stretch ingredients into something greater than the sum of their parts.

And this way of cooking goes back even further. In Italy, when cucina povera was at the forefront because resources were limited and ingenuity was essential, not every home had an oven. Families would assemble dishes and take them to a communal oven, often at a bakery. I always say it was like a car wash: people coming in and out with their pans, queued up to get their baking done. That communal practice cemented something lasting: layered dishes as a practical, communal, deeply human way to cook.

Kitchen Shortcuts That Have Stood the Test of Time

After years of working on my brand Mad Hungry in Martha Stewart’s test kitchen, I became ruthless about steps and ingredients that don’t pull their weight. Home cooking isn’t restaurant cooking. In a restaurant, every cutlet has to be perfect, one at a time, on demand. At home, a meal needs to be delicious and fit into your life.

That’s why I’m always delighted to realize my Italian American ancestors were doing this kind of smart editing long before I gave it a name. Take the recipe for Chicken Parmesan, which I adapted from my grandmother’s. So many recipes insist on the full 'standard breading procedure' (dredge in flour, dip in egg, coat in breadcrumbs) – an assembly line that can make sense for a standalone cutlet, but becomes excessive when the cutlet is going to be baked under Sunday Sauce and cheese.

In my family, the women simply mixed the breadcrumbs with cheese and seasoning and pressed it directly into the cutlet. Straight to the point. Less mess and same satisfying result.

Modernising Traditional Methods

The Italian Oven Fries in this selection are also deceptively simple, and they come straight from the brilliance of another woman in my family: my mother.

My mother was not Italian; she was Scotch-English on one side of her life, and then married into a very Italian household where, in those days, you were expected to cook like your Italian mother-in-law did. She was also an artist, and she had the creativity to take traditional Italian flavors and translate them into a modern, practical form.

She took the seasoning spirit of baked artichokes – Romano, garlic, herbs – and applied it to potatoes. She used the oven instead of frying because she was feeding a crowd and trying to live her life. Those fries became iconic in our family, the kind of thing you forget until you make them again, and everyone loses their mind.

My mom and I went head-to-head for years about the 'dried Italian seasoning.' I’m not a fan of most pre-mixed herb blend – I’d rather list herbs individually in my recipes. But she loved that old-school grocery store mix – a very 1960s staple – and eventually, she won.

Lasagne With Mini Meatballs

And the famous Lasagna with Mini Meatballs from my childhood? Those little meatballs are labor-intensive – there’s no way around it – but they’re also the entire reason the dish lives so vividly in my mind. I like to cook them in sauce, so they stay tender and porous, almost 'naked,' so they can absorb and meld with everything else.

What all of the layered and baked dishes in my book have in common is the magic that happens in the oven. In a well-made lasagna, or chicken Parmesan, or a layered vegetable bake, liquids mingle and then evaporate. Sugars concentrate. Edges caramelize. The top becomes crisp, the middle stays soft and yielding, and the bottom turns crunchy in the most glorious way. Nothing is one-note. It’s bubbling, and melting, and rising, and crisping all at once. It’s the kind of food you never forget.

Ingredients (serves 12)

• For the tomato sauce:
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Two 28-ounce (800 g) cans whole tomatoes, lightly pulsed in a blender
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 sprigs fresh basil (optional)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• For the meatballs (See recipe on Lucinda's Sunday Sauce column, and roll into about ½ inch in diameter)
• 1 pound (455 g) dried lasagna noodles
• Extra virgin olive oil
• 1¼ cups (285 g) ricotta cheese, drained if not thick
• 1 pound (455 g) mozzarella, grated
• 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Method

• For the tomato sauce:
• Heat a medium saucepan over medium heat and swirl in the olive oil.
• Add the garlic and pepper flakes and stir constantly for about 30 seconds, just long enough to release the garlic’s fragrance and transform it slightly from its raw state; don’t let it cook to golden.
• Raise the heat to high and stir in the tomatoes and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes.
• In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the basil sprig, if using, then remove it before serving. Swirl in the butter
• For the meatballs (See recipe on Lucinda's Sunday Sauce column, and roll into about ½ inch in diameter)
• For the lasagne:
• Bring the tomato sauce to a boil in a large pot. One by one, stir the raw meatballs into the sauce and cook for 20 minutes. Remove from the heat and cover to keep warm.
• Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and salt it generously (you will have to cook the noodles in batches unless you have an extra-large pot). Fill a large bowl with cold water and stir in a glug of olive oil.
• If using dried noodles, cook according to the package instructions and transfer to the bowl of water. Remove the noodles from the cold water and pat dry. Lay them flat on a baking sheet, separated by parchment paper or plastic wrap.
• Combine the ricotta, ½ cup (225 g) of the grated mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, the parsley, egg, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl and stir together.
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• To assemble the lasagna, spread 1 cup (245 g) of the tomato sauce over the bottom of an oiled 9-by-13-inch (23 by 33 cm) baking dish. Overlap one quarter of the noodles over the sauce to cover the pan bottom.
• Spread a third of the cooked meatballs over the noodles and spoon over another 1 cup (225 g) sauce. Overlap another quarter of the noodles on top. Dollop all the ricotta mixture on top of the noodles and flatten it with the back of a spoon to make an even layer. Overlap another quarter of noodles on top.
• Spread over the second third of meatballs and 1 cup (225 g) sauce. Cover with the remaining noodles. Pour 2 cups (450 g) of the sauce to cover. Scatter the remaining meatballs on top. Scatter the remaining mozzarella over the top. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese and drizzle with olive oil.
• Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, until the lasagna is bubbling all over and lightly golden on top. Let rest for at least 20 to 30 minutes before slicing. Serve with plenty of grated cheese and the remaining tomato sauce at the table.

A Cook's Legacy is our six-part series with award-winning cookbook author, Lucinda Scala Quinn, exploring the family, food, and cultural memory that inspired her latest cookbook, Mother Sauce, through her beloved culinary voice.

The primary intention of Feng Shui is to activate a flow of uplifting, supportive, positive energy into the home all year-round. A home blessed with good Feng Shui gains a head start on the fresh energy of the New Year, and festive guests will notice the feel-good sensation the moment they walk through your door.

When it comes to entertaining, the hosting secret my VIP clients practise is to establish an intentional anchor point, situated in alignment with the main entrance to the room. This tempts guests and positive energy into the space and into every part of the room.

Want to replicate their success? Here's how to avoid common living room feng shui mistakes and create a sociable living space perfect for holiday hosting.

Why Your Hosting Space Needs Anchor Points

An anchor point, put simply, is the commanding position in a room. It is a focal point that grounds energy and draws guests in.

Chi lifeforce energy routinely circulates within a room, but there can be ‘stagnant areas’, often found in corners or overly cluttered spaces. Here, guests clump awkwardly, and hosts fear to tread. To be candid, the energy is as flat as a pancake, making deluttering methods a must before hosting.

Anchor points are a useful entertaining tip for any time of year, and at Christmas, we’re blessed with an obvious decorative choice, the Christmas tree. The combination of light, height, and beauty is an enticement to all. During other seasons, a tall, elegant lamp, a vibrant feng shui plant on a pedestal, or a piece of enticing art will have the same effect.

In homes with large, open-plan areas, a classic layout encompasses the natural circulation of people and energy. You’re almost spoilt for choice when it comes to hospitality options. Situate your anchor point in the furthest third of the great room so people gravitate towards it.

Traditional homes and those with more bijou entertaining spaces work just as well by focusing the guest experience on the sitting room. Aim for the far end of the room, maintaining a clear view of the door.

While you’re planning your event, use the guest scanning method to look at the space with fresh eyes and identify anything blocking the flow of people within the room and your anchor point. If there’s a single entrance, is it possible to do a circuit of the room, or does furniture placed against a wall mean there’s only one viable route?

In more intimate spaces, look for ways to create volume. This might mean rearranging furniture before hosting a crowd, repositioning a sofa, relocating very large coffee tables, or generally repurposing the room specifically for your event.

How to Try It Yourself

By activating your living room's secret anchor point, you draw your guests effortlessly into a warm, relaxed, and beautifully seasonal space. Spending time with family, friends, and neighbors should never be a chore.

To really tap into this method, I suggest the following:

• Welcome Chi, and guests will follow: As with good entryway feng shui, remove items that block the door from opening to its fullest extent. This is a simple rule and very effective. Declutter anything that doesn’t belong, and the room will instantly feel lighter.
• Furniture and flow: Take the focal point away from the TV, follow good feng shui furniture placement, and position seating for interaction. Where possible, allow circulation space behind furniture to encourage socializing. It’s much easier to engage with shy guests when they don’t feel trapped in one spot. If you anticipate saying a few words, have a popular raconteur on the guest list, or need visibility for charades, use your anchor point for the purpose.
• Let there be light: Harsh lighting is a no-no. Instead, add twinkling light in warm tones, and if space allows, make use of lamps pooling their illumination at a variety of heights to uplift energy and add depth.
• Beat bottlenecks: Locate drinks and nibbles in opposite parts of the room to prevent the ‘queuing for the buffet vibe’ and keep people moving. It’s a great way to keep energy fizzing.
• Tap into the Feng Shui: If you have already activated the specific feng shui remedy the room needs, there’s no need to add more. However, for those new to the practice, balance is everything. Add in aspects of the five elements for the evening. You likely already have them in the home. Wood is represented by living plants; Earth by crystals or ceramics; Metal by metallic objects and finishes; Fire by reds, and hot colours; finally, Water in a vase will do the job for one night only. One thing to remember, if something doesn’t feel comfortable, go with your gut instinct and remove it. When the feng shui is right, it takes the room to a new level.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t position a chair too close to your anchor point: Legs are both a distraction and a trip hazard when you’re holding the room.
• Secure decorations and garlands: This will stop a passing elbow from bringing the whole show crashing down. Sharp holly is best displayed above head height to avoid scratches and peril to party outfits. These reusable zip ties from Walmart are ideal for this purpose.
• Protect candles: The warm glow of candles is deliciously opulent. Protect from mishap by putting them out of range of flammable apparel and extravagant gesticulations. If in doubt, use artificial candles, such as these LED pillar candles from Amazon.
• Set boundaries: A great party can overflow into every available space. If rooms need to remain out of bounds for privacy, close doors and place a console or chair in front of the door to deter prying eyes.
• Create a stain station: Spills are inevitable in a crowded space. Have a cleanup kit easily to hand and resolve the mess quietly, reassuring your embarrassed guest that everything is fine. Tide To Go Pens, from Walmart, are ideal for this. If you’re anxiously monitoring every glass of red poured by that tipsy uncle, it’s probably best to offer only white and rosé wine options.

What to Shop

Stressed hosts and miscommunication can be a real damper on an evening. Share the load by splitting decorating duties with family, and split chores with a partner to ensure you all enjoy this special time of year. After all, it’s your night in the spotlight, and you deserve to shine.

With the holiday nearly upon us, we're all thinking of ways to elevate our hosting game this year. From planning your Christmas day menu to your Christmas table decor ideas, the countdown is on. If your home will take center stage for hosting a large group of family and friends, or you're opting for a more intimate gathering this year, ensure that you're organized for the days ahead with this expert advice. Here's how to have a very merry (and well-planned) Christmas.

Create an Inviting Atmosphere

Creating a sense of warmth and ambiance for the festivities with ensure everyone feels, calm, merry and ready to enjoy the holiday as well as creating a welcoming home-from-home for your guests. 'Holiday hosting should feel as warm and memorable as the gathering itself,' says interior designer Erica McLain, founder of McLain by Design Interiors. 'I like to think of my space as an experience that starts from the moment guests walk in the door.'

1. Make Your Entrance Feel Welcoming

Don't forget to think about your front door when hosting guests this festive season. Since it's the first interaction guests will have upon entering your home, adorning it with a festive Christmas wreath creates a welcoming entrance that says 'come on in.'

'Don't miss the opportunity to make an impression right from the start,' says Jenny Weiss, founder and director at Hill House Interiors. 'Greet your guests with a festive flourish – a beautiful wreath hung on the front door is the perfect way to set the tone for your styling.'

'Wreaths can be personalized to suit every taste, from a traditional mix of cinnamon and orange slices with lush foliage to an exuberant display of layered baubles and ribbons – anything is possible. The smell of pine and mistletoe is key to bring that scent of Christmas throughout, hence why we love to integrate foliage, right from the entry. Our top tip is to weave twinkling lights throughout the wreath; battery-operated lights are easy to use and add a magical touch.' Festive Doormats (like this fun Let's Get Spritzed doormat from Anthropologie) and slippers for guests to put on when they arrive will all add to the welcoming atmosphere.

2. Create a Cozy Feel With Lighting

When hosting guests during the holidays, lighting is key. Ambient lighting creates a relaxed and intimate feel. 'Lighting acts as an effortless, atmospheric backdrop to hosting and should be a core consideration in your festive season planning,' says Mara Rypacek Miller, founder of Industville. 'Small changes can make maximum impact – look to change bulbs to warmer tones with lower Kelvins in order to nurture seasonal wellbeing.'

'Setting the mood rests entirely on the lighting you choose,' agrees interior designer Matthew Williamson. 'Forget about using one main lighting source in favor of illuminating a few lamps around a kitchen for a more interesting, flattering lighting scheme.'

'If there is ever a time to experiment with lighting, it’s the holidays,' says suggests Denver-based interior designer Nadia Watts. 'Simply adding a strand of white twinkle lights (like these Battery Operated Fairy String Lights from Walmart) can make your entire space feel more festive. Dim your overhead lights and focus on layered lighting. Add candles, luminaires, and strands of holiday lights in unexpected places.'

3. Add Candles for Ambiance

When hosting throughout the holiday season, candles are one of the easiest and most effective ways to create a cozy and welcoming feel for your guests. Whether that's with taper candles (like these Christmas taper candles from Target) on your dining table or pillar candles in the living room, candles are the finishing touch to ensure a welcoming home.

'Candlesticks are a stylish and budget-friendly way to enhance your holiday decor,' says Interior designer Darla Bankston May, founder of Houston-based Bankston May Associates. 'They bring a touch of elegance and warmth to your space, making them perfect for decorating table settings or mantels. With endless color options, you can select candlesticks that align with your style and decor, adding a festive flair to your home.'

4. Consider Fragrance

A smaller detail that won't fail to create a welcoming vibe is to use seasonal home fragrances. Whether using the best candles or reed diffusers, opting for seasonal scents of spices or pine will ensure your home feels festive from the moment guests walk through the door.

'Something subtle and natural like a cinnamon, cedarwood, or balsam fir can make the space feel even more inviting and cozy without overpowering the senses,' says Erica McLain. 'The goal is to create a space where people feel truly at home, surrounded by beauty that feels effortless and comforting.' Try the Pottery Barn Fireside Cinnamon Scent Collection, which includes candles, tealights, diffusers and potpourri.

5. Set up a Self-Service Bar

Don't forget the welcoming drink for when your guests first arrive – a festive cocktail or hot toddy is a lovely idea to invite them in from the cold with. But once everyone is settled in, it's nice to have a self-serve bar cart or even a mini fridge, which guests can help themselves to and it will save you the job of bartending, too. When it comes to cocktail hour, a kind guest might even pour you a drink to enjoy in the kitchen while you're food prepping.

You may also want to invest in some luxe cocktail essentials, from nick and nora glasses to tumblers, and cocktail shakers to bar tools. 'When the holidays roll around, I always like to make sure that my bar cart and drinks cabinet are fully stocked, not only with a variety of spirits, wines, and garnishes but also with a plethora of glassware,' explains interior designer Kathy Kuo. 'It's so nice to be able to use the proper glass for specific cocktails and wines, and it really does add to the overall festive mood of a gathering when guests can delight in how beautiful your coupe glasses or cut-glass tumblers are.'

Get Your Kitchen Holiday Ready

No room works harder when it comes to hosting season than the kitchen. But as well as the food prepping, the kitchen is often a hub for hosting, too. There are some easy Christmas kitchen countertop decor ideas you can try to give the room a sense of occasion. The kitchen is often a sociable space during the holidays, so it's important to make it feel inviting, but also to ensure that it works practically while you're busy cooking and your guests don't feel 'in the way'.

6. Make Sure You Have Enough Kitchen Essentials

'A well-stocked armory of essentials, easily accessible, can transform hosting from a daunting task to a gracious art.' is how designer Artem Kropovinsky so eloquently puts it. The last thing you want to be doing when hosting is washing up, so ensure you have enough of the best cookware, like roasting pans to accomodate your meet and veg, as well as utensils, to make everything as easy and as seamless as possible.

The same goes for dinnerware. Think about the maximum amount of people you usually host and ensure you have enough plates, bowls, glasses, cups, cutlery, and so on. It may be useful to stock your hosting closet with some good basics (such as this Corelle Dinnerware set in winter frost from Target, which is microwave and dishwasher safe), to cover all bases so you don't run out.

7. Consider How You Use the Space

You'll want to ensure you can move as easily as possible around your kitchen while your guests are in there, too. 'Carving out clear zones for the culinary dance of prepping, cooking, and cleaning can compose a harmonious rhythm,' says Artem. 'Generous seating and surface realms beckon guests to alight, mingle, and partake in the culinary narrative.'

Tempt guests to certain areas that you know will be out of the way, but feel like they are part of the action. And don't just stick to one space, as guests will congregate in one part of the kitchen, which could become awkward. Have a bar set up in one section of the kitchen, and dot food around the rest.

The kitchen island may feel like the perfect space to have guests gather, and you could actually turn it into a curated hosting space for a charcuterie spread, like Designer Bryan Graybill.

8. Choose Serveware That Doubles as Decor

'When preparing to host for the holiday season, I like to first make sure my kitchen is stocked up on rustic wooden serving boards (like this carved edge round wood board from Hearth & Hand with Magnolia at Target), glassware, decanters, and barware, and plenty of scented candles. I also like to place a large stone or ceramic vase of seasonal greenery or foliage on my countertop to add an air of festivity,' advises designer Kathy Kuo.

Having serveware that does the job and looks lovely is something I also rely on when getting my kitchen ready for hosting. Aesthetically pleasing platters, boards, and glasses can do so much of the work for you. Plus, as Kathy suggests, you can make them part of a display that will instantly give your kitchen a relaxed, festive feel.

Plan the Food Prep

You might have your Christmas Day menu sorted, but to ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible on the day, it's important to put in some groundwork. The experts have shared their advice on everything from making sure you don't run out of key ingredients, to keeping things simple, and clever shortcuts to help you along the way.

9. Check Your Supplies

Don't forget the chef prep secrets for holiday meals, to ensure your ingredients are fully stocked and prepared ahead of time, as you don't want to run out of an essential ingredient at a crucial point or when the stores are closed for the holidays.

'Always be sure to go through your panty before you do any shopping, so you’re not buying duplicates of items,' advises Mackenzie Mitchel, Founder At Home With Mackenzie. 'It’s also a good idea to organize your pantry in advance – that way you can find everything you need easily and check the dates of items. There have been several times when I thought I had an ingredient only to realize it had expired, and I had to go back out.'

10. Stick to What you Know

'The biggest mistake I see from hosts is overcomplicating things; the goal isn’t perfection, it’s connection,' says Sakshi Khurana of the luxury home lifestyle brand, dumæ. 'Pare down the menu, let your pieces speak, and focus on creating warmth for your guests. At the end of the day, the best host is one who is confident, having fun, and feeling good in the space they’re entertaining in – because that’s when your guests truly feel at home.'

The same applies to the menu, according to etiquette expert, Maryanne Parker 'One of the most important tips for hosting a successful holiday gathering is this: never experiment with a new recipe on the day of your lunch or dinner party. Even the best home cooks can have a mishap, and the holiday table is not the place to take that risk,' she says.

Chef Dennis Littley agrees: 'Be smart with your menu,' he advises. 'Pick two show-stoppers. For example, a glazed ham and potato gratin, and keep the other dishes simple. Roasted vegetables, a green salad, or a very basic, but well-seasoned side can round out the table without overwhelming you.'

12. Keep Things Cool

With so much extra food to store, from Christmas canapes to desserts and cheeses, organizing your refrigerator can become a game of Jenga. Not to mention all those extra drinks you'll need to keep cool. That's when you need to think outside the box – quite literally.

'Pre-packed coolers are a hosting powerhouse and free up precious refrigerator space,' says Atlanta-based entertaining expert and party planner, Sandy Dostal. 'Fill one with beverages – beer, soda, bottled water, canned cocktails – for quick grab-and-go service. Use another for chilled side dishes, desserts, garnishes, or condiments. And always dedicate one cooler solely to ice – trust me, it becomes liquid gold once beverages start flowing.'

Another idea is to invest in a mini fridge that is stylish enough to be kept in the living room, so guests can help themselves to cold drinks (they might even offer to re-stock it for you when it's running low.)

13. Take Strategic Shortcuts

There's nothing wrong with making life a little easier on yourself when the pressure is on, and there are plenty of kitchen shortcuts that will help save you time and stress.

Mackenzie Mitchel suggests 'Make and freeze pie dough in the dish (wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil) ahead of time – this will store for up to three months.'

Better still, Executive Chef at the Waldorf Astoria, Beverley Hills, Peleg Miron gives you permission to buy elements of your meal in. Not everything has to be made from scratch. 'High-quality store-bought crusts or gravies can elevate efficiency without compromising flavor,' he says.

And, if you're cooking turkey for Christmas day, Mark Jeffers, Culinary Director, Fifth Group Restaurants, suggests a great time saver. 'Spatchcock Your Turkey: Remove the backbone and flatten the bird for even cooking, crispy skin, and freed-up oven space.'

Letting yourself off from doing everything perfectly from scratch is the first step towards feeling more relaxed on the day. If the pros do it, so can you.

14. Nail Your Timings

Managing the cooking times can be one of the trickiest parts of Christmas meal prep, and despite best efforts, it doesn't always go to plan. But you can buy yourself some breathing space.

'Decide what can be made ahead. Cold desserts, chilled apps, doughs, roasted veg and certain mains keep well and save time,' suggests Chef Chrissy Camba, Head Chef at Tovala.'Time your reheats and plan which dishes require the same oven temperatures, in advance, and when each item should go in. Putting the schedule to paper keeps everything moving.'

And, for an absolute failsafe, Karina, Founder of food and lifestyle blog, Goodley Living says 'always plan an extra 30 minutes to an hour buffer if you’re roasting a dish. It tastes better when it’s had time to sit anyway, and it will help to ease peace-of-mind should something be unexpectedly undercooked and you need a little longer.'

Practical Ways to Keep Things Calm and Organized

With a lot more people in the house comes a lot more noise, movement, and stuff. It's important to clear space, so your guests have enough room to stow away their belongings. And don't be afraid to get your guests involved with helpful tasks – the chances are they will be happy to oblige, and it will help you keep things ticking along calmly. Here's how to ensure you keep the chaos to a minimum and the day going smoothly.

15. Do a Dry Run

Even if you've planned out your Christmas table decor ideas to a tee, when it comes to the day, you will want to avoid any unexpected hiccups, so lay everything out in advance to check it all works together and looks as you expected.

'The first thing I do before hosting anything is to pull out every platter I plan to use and do a quick dry run,' says Whitney English, organization expert and author of Organize First, Decorate Second: How to Go From Clutter to Creativity. 'If it’s family-style, I set the dishes right on the table to make sure everything fits – serving pieces, glassware, flatware, all of it. If it’s buffet-style, I mock up the whole spread on the sideboard, down to the serving spoons and trivets. It saves me from the last-minute scramble.'

16. Make Space for Coats, Boots & Bags

Chances are your guests will arrive togged up for the chilly weather, which means bulky coats, chunky boots, hats, scarves, and the rest. It may sound obvious, but making sure you have somewhere to store them is essential to keep your entryway or cloakroom clear and organized. Your entryway may be perfectly organized all year long, but bring on a holiday, or a last-minute family gathering, and it can easily be thrown out of sorts.

Sandy Dostal says 'multiple coat trees are a hosting hack I swear by. Dedicate one to coats, and another to handbags. It keeps your home organized during the event and makes it easy for guests to retrieve their belongings when it’s time to head home.'

Making sure there's somewhere to store shoes, such as a large basket (like this water hyacinth basket from the Container Store), which can look stylish as well as being practical, is a good idea too, for keeping your carpets clean and your entrance uncluttered.

17. Stow Unnecessary Items Away

With more people in the house, there will inevitably be accidents and breakages, but you can avoid that happening by storing away your precious items and anything unnecessary before your guests arrive. One idea is to put them in the boxes that you took your Christmas decorations out of, so they can be wrapped in the same padding, and there's no chance of forgetting where you stored them as you'll do the swap again when the decs come down.

Barbara Brock, professional organizer, home stager, andowner of Barbara Brock Inc., says, 'have an empty tub handy to put unnecessary items, then remove items and put them all in a closet to be edited later.'

Conversely, Maggie Kelly, founder of Organizing CU suggests storing the pieces you need for the festive period in a hosting bin. 'I store all of the dishware, utensils, and other holiday items I only use for the week of Christmas in one easy location.' This also allows you to clearly see what you have and what you might need to stock up on when everything is all in one place.

18. Ask for a Helping Hand

Asking for help as the host can feel a little daunting, and some are quite stubbornly against it. However, saying 'yes' to a kind friend or relative who wants to help you, whether that's laying the table, making an appetizer, or even washing up, can make all the difference.

'Get your guests involved. Assign small, meaningful roles like pouring drinks, arranging a cheese board, or warming rolls,' says Chef Dennis Littley. 'This not only eases your burden but makes people feel part of the celebration.'

19. Plan Ahead for the Cleanup

Amid all the excitement of the day itself, the last thing you'll want to think about is the cleanup, but making your home feel like your own again after the holidays will be worth a little forward planning to make the process so much less arduous – your future self will thank you.

'Make a list of everyday essentials to stock up on – items that often get overlooked but are always needed, says Sandy Dostal, 'think garbage bags, hand soap, dish detergent, disinfecting wipes, paper towels, napkins, toilet paper, foil, a plunger, zip-top bags. Store them all in one central spot so any willing volunteers don't have to hunt down supplies.'

Want to know more about how the hosting pros get ahead? Read our Ultimate Christmas Prep Countdown to help you to stay calm and composed on the day.

For designer Bryan Graybill, a good holiday drinks gathering is rooted in the everyday ritual of cocktail hour. 'It’s the hinge in the day when the world softens a little,' he says. 'It’s the permission to exhale, the switch from the public self to the private one.' Growing up in the South, he learned early that the evening sip was less about alcohol than atmosphere. 'It was a pause, a reset, and a touch of glamour tossed into the mundane. I still think of it as a daily punctuation mark.' When it comes to how to host the perfect cocktail party, Graybill's uncomplicated yet considered touches ensure an elevated, yet relaxed event every time.

The Art of the Transition

In Graybill’s homes, cocktail hour is treated as an intentional interlude. The perfect martini moment, he says, is 'about timing and temperature.' The drink should be glacial – 'extremely bruised' – while conversation remains unhurried and the light just flattering enough to make everything (and everyone) look better.

His sundowners lean toward drinks with bitters, 'so you don’t down them too quickly,' but for him, it’s less about mixology than mood. 'Cocktail hour is analog, slow, and humane,' he explains. 'It’s a small rebellion against the tempo of modern life. It encourages eye contact, conversation, and the idea that your home can be a sanctuary, not a charging station.'

Setting the Stage

Atmosphere, he believes, is everything. 'Low light always wins – candles only is even better,' he says. He likes a smoky or resinous scent in the air ('I hate a floral candle') and the soft crackle of Nina Simone spinning on a vintage record player. 'When we’ve flipped to and finished the B-sides, it’s time to go.'

Lighting, the best candles, and sound combine to make the room feel alive yet unhurried. 'It’s not about staging perfection,' he says. 'It’s about staging comfort.'

The Still Life Bar

When it comes to perfecting your home bar setup, Graybill treats the cocktail tray or bar cart like art. 'It’s a still life,' he says. 'A proper tray, a few bottles with beautiful labels, a bowl of citrus, maybe a sprig of rosemary in a bud vase. It should look intentional but not fussy – like it’s always waiting for you.'

His barware choices follow the same philosophy. 'Quiet luxury doesn’t announce itself; it settles in. I’d rather have one exceptional coupe than a cupboard full of mediocre ones.'

Everyday vs. Holiday

During the holidays, he simply turns up the warmth. 'I’ll tuck in a little greenery, bring out heavier silver or crystal, and lean into richer tones – claret, evergreen, brass,' he says. 'The music shifts to something with nostalgia. And there’s always a nibble or two: smoked almonds, a proper cheese, maybe a little charcuterie.' Graybill recently shared his charcuterie formula for an effortless, yet abundant spread.

But the guiding principle remains the same: elegance through ease. 'Quiet luxury is restraint without overproduction,' he notes. 'Good glassware, real linen, a decent spirit –that’s it. The moment is the ornament.'

Ritual and Conversation

Graybill’s personal martini ritual borders on devotional. 'Nick & Nora glasses, always,' he says. 'A thin lemon twist like a ribbon. The glasses go in the freezer, so the first sip is practically crystalline.' When guests arrive, he offers a question instead of a drink list. 'What was the best part of your day?' is his go-to for shifting guests out of work mode and into life mode.

His own drink of choice? 'Añejo tequila – anything except Casamigos – on a big rock.' For Graybill, the magic of cocktail hour lies in the balance between performance and pause. 'It’s that small, daily moment,' he says, 'when the light fades, the candle flickers, and everything slows down just enough to feel human again.'

Bryan Graybill's Cocktail Hour Essentials

This feature is part of our exclusive series, A Designer’s Guide to Entertaining, with interior designer and seasoned host Bryan Graybill. Each month, Bryan will offer expert advice, holiday hosting tips, and effortless ways to create a more inviting home – beginning with the spaces where everyday life and memorable gatherings naturally unfold.

When I have guests on the way, whether for dinner, drinks, or a cozy night in, the first thing I do is light a candle. It's a simple yet so effective way to create a welcoming, relaxing atmosphere, but where should you never place a scented candle when hosting?

The answer, really, is obvious once you think about it – strongly scented candles on the dinner table can heavily affect the way you smell and taste food and drinks.

Here, our home fragrance experts explain exactly why it's best to keep your best candles off your carefully curated tablescaping and what to use instead.

Why A Scented Candle Doesn't Belong on Your Dinner Table When Hosting

While I personally love scented candles and love swapping them out with the seasons (I'm currently using them to make my home smell like Christmas), Amy Keller, a candle-maker and the founder of apidae candles, says she tends to avoid scented candles in all parts of the home, as she finds that manufactured scents can often be too overpowering.

'However, most importantly, a scented candle should not be placed on the dining room table during a meal,' she warns, no matter how beautiful they look on your dining table decor ideas.

'Part of the pleasure of eating is enjoying the smells of the food. Smell allows us to distinguish the nuances of complex flavors. Without a proper sense of smell, food tastes different.'

Certainly, after all that preparation, the last thing you want to do is ruin your hard work cooking up party food recipes and seasonal menus for late Autumn.

What To Do Instead

Luckily, you don't have to sacrifice your dinner table styling. All you need, instead, is to pick non-toxic candles, specifically those that are unscented.

Darryl Do, senior perfumer at Delbia Do Fragrance, advises, 'Use unscented taper candles at your table, and keep scented candles or your best reed diffusers in your hall, living room, and bathrooms.'

For this, I recommend using colorful candles to still add a touch of flair or personality to your table – these Fluted Taper Candles, available in a pack of four at Anthropologie, would be my pick.

Alternatively, recommends Amy, burn beeswax candles. 'The bees give the beeswax its natural, subtle, honey scent, which is never overpowering,' she explains. These dinner candles are ideal for a holiday table setting. They are dripless and burn clean. The golden beeswax adds a touch of warmth to any festive table.

'And most importantly, they will never overpower the food, which should be the star at the dining table. The subtle scent of beeswax candles takes a backseat to the aromas being served up at the dining table. They burn elegantly in the background.

'In addition to being a beautiful source of light, beeswax candles are also a conscious and healthy choice. Made without additives or artificial fragrances, they offer a pure and natural alternative to conventional scented candles.'

If you're crafty, you can also try your hand at making your own candles, using candle wicks and beeswax, both available at Amazon.

What to Shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Expert

Our candle care guide is packed full of actionable expert tips to make your candles last longer and burn better.

For designer Bryan Graybill, breakfast is more than a meal, it's theater – it’s the day’s first act. 'Breakfast is the most forgiving of meals,' he says. 'It’s intimate and everything feels softer.' Whether shared with family, a partner, or alone, it’s a moment that allows for both brevity and depth: 'It’s the only meal where a quick visit or a long linger both feel equally appropriate.'

Graybill has talked about the kitchen as functional theatre, but when he refers to breakfast as 'theatre', he isn’t talking about grandeur, but about rhythm and grace. 'The theater is in the sequence, not the spectacle,' he explains. 'There’s a bit of performance in setting the table, greeting a lover or family member with a cheek kiss. Plots are often hatched over the breakfast table.' In his East Hampton home, mornings are unhurried, deliberate – designed to invite calm before the day’s demands begin.

Let the Light do the Work

Light, Graybill insists, defines the entire experience. 'Morning light forgives the night before,' he says. 'Harsh light at breakfast feels like an interrogation. When in doubt, leave the lights off.' Instead, he relies on natural light filtered through sheer curtains or a shaded lamp for a warm, forgiving glow. 'It should feel like waking up slowly.'

Designing for Breakfast

Graybill believes the best breakfast spaces feel provisional, never permanent. 'Banquettes are good for lingering,' he says. 'But I don’t believe in eating breakfast at the kitchen island, it feels too transactional.' A small round table tucked near a window or garden view, or a designated breakfast nook, is ideal. 'Breakfast should have a sense of occasion, but never of obligation.'

The Quiet Power of Details

Small gestures make the difference between rushed and restorative. 'A linen napkin instead of paper – always,' he says (Sferra Festival Linen Napkins come in a huge range of shades to suit your style). 'Condiments on a silver tray. The good china. A single flower or stem of greenery in a bud vase (like the Glass Onion Vase by Yoshihiro Nishiyama from RW Guild). A tablecloth when time allows.' These details, he adds, 'are small domestic courtesies that whisper rather than shout.'

For Graybill, linens and china are the 'quiet actors' of morning. 'A crisp napkin or a bit of old hotelware gives the morning dignity,' he says. 'I use the good things every day – beauty should live in daily use.'

Ceremony Without Fuss

Graybill’s philosophy of breakfast is rooted in rhythm rather than extravagance. 'Ceremony comes from repetition, not excess,' he says. 'A tray set the same way each morning is more elegant than a table styled once a month.' The goal is to create intention, not performance – to begin the day with quiet presence.

A Morning at Home

His own mornings follow a gentle script. 'I wake early. My husband, Dan, brings me coffee in bed – sometimes the second cup too,' he says. After walking Rufus, their dog, and working out, he returns home for breakfast: scrambled eggs, Greek yogurt with walnuts and honey, and a few minutes to linger and answer emails. 'It’s peaceful. It gives structure to the day.'

The Scent of Morning

Asked what defines his ideal morning, Graybill doesn’t hesitate: 'Coffee. And fresh air.' It’s that combination of ritual and sensory simplicity that sets the tone for the day.

For Graybill, breakfast is not an indulgence but a foundation – a way to begin each day with civility and care. 'It’s theater, yes,' he says, 'but it’s also a kind of morning grace. A few simple gestures that make the day feel considered before it even begins.'

Bryan's Morning Essentials

This feature is part of our exclusive series, A Designer’s Guide to Entertaining, with interior designer and seasoned host Bryan Graybill. Each month, Bryan will offer expert advice, holiday hosting tips, and effortless ways to create a more inviting home – beginning with the spaces where everyday life and memorable gatherings naturally unfold.

No living room is complete without a coffee table. Able to connect and ground the many components in a living space, a coffee table provides that all-important curated touch.

Whether it's a vintage trunk or a modern glass style, I've long loved adding a statement table to my living room and decorating it with only my most meaningful trinkets.

From stacks of books to a large candle, I used to keep the design minimal and scatter only my firm favorites. However, after seeing Emma Roberts' masterful coffee table decor arrangement, I'm now convinced that it's not about how much you place on it, but the way in which you do it.

Emma's coffee table proves that there's no such thing as too much. Featuring stacks of books, vintage treasures, and an effortlessly chic floral arrangement (all neatly displayed on a low coffee table, much like this Burl Wood Coffee Table from Wayfair), it's the rather clever layout that makes the setup so successful.

Shop the Emma Edit

Emma's coffee table may at first seem simple, but it's actually the result of careful curation. Featuring a statement vase and plenty of books, it's a lesson in clever layout. You'll be pleased to know that recreating the look at home couldn't be simpler, particularly with these pieces that are just as stylish as Emma's.

Coffee table styling ideas might seem straightforward, but Emma's display proves there's an art behind them.

After gazing (far too long) at Emma's table, it's clear that the layout is what makes the design so impactful. More than a handful of books on a coffee table might seem excessive, but it's these many spines that make the display look polished and effortless. By stacking them in various areas of the table, the design feels cohesive and pleasing to the eye.

The books are the foundation for the other decor. The vase connects the multiple elements on the tabletop and brings some much-needed height and color to the contrast against the darker tones. Smaller vintage trinkets have been scattered accordingly, providing visual interest amongst the spines.

Martin Waller, founder of Andrew Martin, comments, 'A coffee table should take centre stage, whether it’s a classic design, a vintage find, or even a chic footstool pressed into service. Add a tray to anchor the look, then layer your favourite treasures, well-thumbed books and mood-setting candles. Color and personality are the lifeblood of any entertaining space, so don’t be afraid to mix sculptural pieces and antique curiosities. The best tables blur the line between art and living, turning everyday objects into an unforgettable display.'

Emma's coffee table is effortlessly chic. While the piece itself works beautifully in the space, it's the many thoughtful details on top of the table that make the design so impactful and elevated.

Even the most seasoned hosts know the effort that goes into preparing a gathering, but designer Bryan Graybill's afternoon tea is a gentle reminder that entertaining needn’t be extravagant. His ritual is a study in simplicity – a pot of freshly brewed tea, a slice of cake, and, as he puts it, a moment that satisfies our craving for pause.

A vintage-inspired theme offers the perfect balance of charm and nostalgia for such an occasion. It’s ‘design at its most intimate,’ evoking an era of delicate china, embroidered linens, and polished silver. This curated edit gathers all the essentials for hosting an effortlessly elegant afternoon tea – pieces that capture the romance of a bygone time without the need to spend hours treasure-hunting in antique stores.

As an interiors editor, I’ve learned this much: from the words on a page to the pillows on your sofa, what you leave out often matters more than what you put in. And as Thanksgiving looms – the one week a year we all moonlight as professional tablescapers – that editing instinct becomes essential.

Because even the prettiest Thanksgiving table can unravel fast. One garish charger, an overgrown vase, a few too many turkey motifs, and suddenly your efforts to impress have the opposite effect.

With picky in-laws and cousins RSVP’ing by the dozen, the pressure’s on to impress. So I asked designers: what’s the one thing that can spoil an otherwise spectacular setup?

Ahead, their unfiltered advice so you can avoid the most common Thanksgiving table and dining room faux pas without even lifting a fork.

1. Uncomfortable Chairs

Thanksgiving dinner is basically an endurance sport. While everyone obsesses over the menu or the perfect floral moment, the real test of hosting stamina comes down to one thing: the chairs.

‘Thanksgiving dinner is meant to linger, and there’s nothing worse than an uncomfortable chair that makes your guests excited to leave the table,’ says interior designer Kathy Kuo, CEO and founder of Kathy Kuo Home. ‘I’m such a fan of upholstered dining chairs that offer the perfect cushioned perch for each guest,’ she explains.

But if all you have lying around are spare stools, clever styling tricks can turn improvised seating into spots guests will happily lounge on through pie. ‘In these chilly months, I love layering each chair with a faux fur pelt or cozy wool throw to bring an extra touch of warmth to the dining room,' Kathy advises if you're in a pinch. Something like this wintery faux fur rug from Wayfair would really elevate a simple stool or add some comfort thrown over the back of a chair.

2. Too Matchy-Matchy Tablescape

Perfection has a way of killing the vibe. Especially on the table. The instinct to make everything ‘go together’ often backfires, according to Joy Lynskey, founder and CEO of Jewel Toned Interiors.

‘A rigidly matched table looks flat and lacks visual interest,’ the designer explains. ‘When every napkin, plate, and runner follows one strict color or pattern, the setting feels contrived, not inviting.’

So, take this as a sign to loosen the rules. ‘Layer a mix of colors, textures, and patterns. For example, try pairing linen napkins with textured ceramic plates and a patterned runner. This creates a beautiful, lived-in look that encourages conversation and comfort.’ H&M's new Christmas collection is filled with lovely tabletop pieces that are perfect for mixing and matching.

3. Disposable Tableware

No matter how long the guest list or how grim the cleanup forecast, paper plates are never the answer. Convenient, sure – but at what aesthetic (and emotional) cost?

‘Paper plates and plastic cups instantly take away from the experience. Thanksgiving deserves more than that,’ says Scottsdale-based interior designer Lauren Lerner. ‘Use your everyday dishes and add one elevated detail like linen napkins,’ she suggests.

Designer Joy Lynskey agrees: ‘Disposable items, like paper plates or plastic cups, always cheapen the table and clash with the spirit of hospitality,’ she says. ‘I get it – it makes the cleanup much easier! Try small ceramic ramekins or glass bowls for sauces, nuts, or dips. Add decorative spoons for a refined touch. These pieces make guests feel cared for and keep the table both elegant and eco-friendly.’

4. A Brightly Lit Room

If you wouldn’t eat under the big light in a restaurant, why subject your guests to such torture at home? Harsh overhead lighting ideas are the enemy of intimacy (and, frankly, of any self-respecting family photo).

‘A Thanksgiving dining room with overly bright lighting can ruin the intimate, cozy vibe you’re trying to embody,’ says designer Kathy Kuo. ‘Setting the mood for any occasion begins with getting the lighting just right.’

Her formula includes a dimmed chandelier, a few warmly lit floor lamps, and ample candlelight. Layering light sources, she explains, creates a flattering glow that makes everything (and everyone) look better.

Pro tip if you go the candle route: skip the scents. ‘Nobody wants an imitation pumpkin or basil overpowering the real thing,’ she warns. ‘At the Thanksgiving table, unscented taper candles and tealights do just the trick.’ If you want to avoid a naked flame because of the chaos that can come with a family Thanksgiving dinner, opt for battery-powered LED taper candles that offer the same effect without the fire hazard.

5. Crazy Centerpieces

For children – and vertically challenged adults – centerpieces can majorly inhibit the flow of a Thanksgiving feast. How are you supposed to catch up with Uncle Mark with a face full of harvest-colored hydrangeas?

‘Anything covered in glitter or overly tall centerpieces that block conversation are instant mood killers,’ shares New York–based designer Alice Moszczynski of Planner 5D. ‘Thanksgiving is about connection, and no one wants to peer around a sparkly pumpkin tower to make eye contact.’

Alice suggests low, natural arrangements of loose greenery, gourds, and taper candles instead. ‘They create atmosphere without cluttering or distracting from the food and company,' she explains.

6. Unassigned Seating

Family dynamics are tricky enough without adding musical chairs to the mix. Even in the most functional families, politeness breeds chaos – no one wants to seem too eager, so everyone hovers.

‘Having no seating plan often leaves guests feeling awkward or out of place, and can unintentionally group quieter guests while talkers dominate a single end of the table,’ says designer Joy Lynskey. ‘Instead, try assigning seats…and when doing so, consider mixing personality types and friendships across generations. Handcrafted name cards at each setting add a personalized detail that welcomes everyone and elevates the aesthetic.’

7. Corny Signs and Sayings

Search 'Thanksgiving decor' and you’ll be met with a parade of plastic turkeys and linen napkins reminding you to Give Thanks. Festive, sure, but hardly sophisticated.

‘These signs have become a design cliche. They are distracting,’ admits designer Alice Moszczynski. ‘A more thoughtful approach is to let the decor itself express itself through soft lighting, layered textures, and meaningful heirlooms. Framed art, family photos, or even handwritten menus feel far more personal and infinitely more chic than mass-produced slogans,’ she says.

Designer Joy Lynskey feels similarly. ‘Consider using textured linens, sepia-toned glassware, natural wood (tree stumps as risers), or organic elements like pampas grass,’ she suggests. ‘These convey the season through ambiance, not cliches, and still align with the Thanksgiving holiday.’ Joanna Gaines, queen of the rustic layered look, no matter what the season, launched plenty of wooden pieces in her Thanksgiving collection, including these wooden candle holders, which would look perfect layered with her Maisley Floral Grid Table Runner.

Even designers – the arbiters of taste, the people we trust to know better – get it wrong sometimes. The wrong viral item, the wrong texture, a momentary lapse in judgment that haunts them every time they walk past it. Learn from their cautionary tales and avoid these (easy to fall into) Thanksgiving table faux pas and clichés.

You can also take a leaf out of some professional organizer's books and set up a hosting tray of essentials to prevent last-minute panics when your guests sit down to dine.

John Derian's home decor is iconic, and it's quite the investment – unless, of course, you buy it at Target. It might seem too good to be true, but the beloved decoupage artist has launched a range of pieces that start at just $15, and they're giving me so many Christmas table decor ideas. I'd say that the John Derian for Target tableware is the answer to a truly whimsical holiday season.

If you told me months ago I'd be coveting the joyful pieces such as the stoneware footed candy dish and a Christmas-themed stone salt and pepper set, I'm not sure I'd have believed you, but there's something about John Derian's unique style that makes me want to transform my Christmas table into a kitschy wonderland.

I shouldn't be surprised: I've been utterly obsessed with retro-inspired drops like Anthropologie's 'kitsch Christmas' holiday collection and Joanna Gaines' cabin kitsch tableware at Target. Yet as fun and nostalgic as John Derian's pieces seem, I love that they hail from timeless 18th- and 19th-century designs, with nature-inspired motifs and breathtaking jewel tones at the forefront.

Just take a look at the John Derian stoneware leaf platter, for example: it has a heritage feel, but it's also effortlessly on-trend. In fact, it reminds me of my favorite fruit and vegetable-themed pieces from H&M's 2025 fall tableware collection. And if I didn't already own a significant number of H&M's artichoke-shaped ornaments, I'd be adding John Derian's artichoke candle to my cart, too.

The stoneware leaf platter isn't the only tableware hero in the collection, however. The frosted coupe drinkware boasts the same pale green botanical design, while the red and cream leaf tablecloth is a more understated take on Derian's work, pairing perfectly with classic white dinnerware, red napkins, and twinkling gold accents.

Plus, it's difficult to do the cookie print cocktail glasses justice: think playful, cartoon-like motifs with a delightfully festive theme. Derian's signature illustrations really shine in pieces like these – and being able to save hundreds of dollars on his designs is something that I'm not taking for granted.

Shop John Derian Tableware at Target

Looking for more holiday-themed table decor with a retro twist? Check out Pottery Barn's 2025 Christmas tableware collection with Norman Rockwell. Just like John Derian's designs, the Pottery Barn collection perfectly captures a sense of American festive nostalgia.

Meet Gardenheir

You'd be forgiven for thinking the founding duo of Gardenheir, Alan Calpe and Christopher Crawford, had always been green-fingered. In fact, the New Yorkers' backgrounds are in the visual arts, retail, and fashion. When they stumbled across a 4-acre Catskills plot less than a decade ago, little did they know it would become the inspiration for the luxury home, garden, and lifestyle brand, that they run today.

Our Gardens Editor recently wrote about the Garden Diaries of Gardenheir, but as I found out, the brand is about far more than just gardening. It captures a nostalgic and romantic aesthetic, inspired by the natural beauty of the outdoors, which feeds into all aspects of the home and, of course, hosting.

So, when Alan and Christopher were invited to collaborate with Auberge Collection's Wildflower Farms (in the aptly named Gardiner, in the Hudson Valley where they have a Gardenheir retail space) on a series of Harvest Dinners, it seemed like a natural fit. It also provided the perfect opportunity to demonstrate their fall table decor ideas and the breadth of the Gardenheir collection, from their classic olive Gingham French Linen Tablecloth, which they laid over long refectory-style tables in a stunning outdoor setting, to the heirloom and foraged objects that punctuated the tablescape with character and authenticity.

I caught up with Alan and Christopher to discover how they bring their unique – if sometimes conflicting – style to entertaining, and wrap it up in an imperfectly perfect package.

Table Decor That Blends Formal & Fussy

'Rather than having a clear brief for a tablescape, we like to get a lot of things out and play around, moving and editing different elements, much like we do with a garden composition – that's how we discover different and surprising combinations,' explains Christopher.

The pair admit to being pretty impulsive and intuitive about what's working and what's not. While Christopher is always attracted to something more formal, like a crisp French linen napkin (Gardenheir) – 'that really speaks to me,' Christopher says – Alan prefers things that are a little less polished. These combined forces create a nice tension that leads to a relaxed, yet exciting tablescape. 'It'll be all wrapped up in a bow that feels pretty polished, but with frayed edges,' laughs Christopher. Their top tablescaping tip, though, is to take a photo of how everything looks together. 'It helps to understand what you're looking at and how other people might see it differently,' Christopher explains.

For the Wildflower dinner, the pair picked some classic, unadorned off-white porcelain and clear glassware (this Red Barrel Studio Dinnerware Set and set of all-purpose wine glasses both from Wayfair are brilliant basics) and built on that with the French linen tablecloth. 'It felt rustic enough to carry the vintage pieces that we added,' adds Alan. And this is the crux of the Gardenheir look – combining classic tableware that anyone might have at home with collected items that bring a nostalgic and storied feel.

'We like to bring in things that we've collected over time, like a serving platter from Deep Black, which might have a particular color or motif that holds everything together, but they could also create a clash, which is fun, too,' says Alan.

Wild & Foraged Botanical Accents

'There's always something botanical from the garden that makes it play,' Alan adds. 'It creates a bridge between what you're seeing in the larger landscape, and something that feels more intimate on the table with you.' Alan and Christopher incorporated architectural stems and soft foliage into botanical centerpieces for this tablescape.

'We love the drama of fall, and tend to be loose and untamed with our arrangements,' continues Alan. Heading to the garden to see what might be in bloom at the time acts as their seasonal guidance, and for fall, that includes the likes of rich dahlias, late season asters, ironweeds, and eupatorium. They also look for plants that offer interest, such as seedpods for structure, ornamental grasses for softness, and even flowers from bolted vegetables. 'For us, a fall bouquet is like a small forest in transition – earthy, textural, moody, and always a bit wild,' Alan muses.

To contrast with their botanical displays for the Wildflower dinner, Alan and Christopher picked out pieces in contrasting terracottas and pinks, such as their Gardenheir pots and planters and the Gardenheir lychee and cream French linen napkins to bring a wonderful richness to the table.

Food & Drinks Inspired by the Land

'We feel lucky to be upstate, where there is a bounty of really interesting chefs and restaurants, such as Stissing House, Blue Hill at Stone Barns, Matilda, Julia’s Local and Casa Susanna to name just a few,' says Alan.

The duo is very much aligned with the farm-to-table concept, and shared dishes of roasted seasonal vegetables are always on the table when they host, which also leans beautifully into Gardenheir's home-grown and foraged philosophy. 'One of our favorite cookbooks is Vegetable Revelations: Inspiration for Produce-Forward Cooking by Steven Satterfield,' says Christopher. Alan's Filipino heritage also feeds into the pair's cooking style, and they are fans of In the Kusina: My Seasonal Filipino Cooking by Woldy Reyes, for Woldy's reinterpretations of some of their favorite dishes.

Christopher continues: 'There's something nice about the ritual and choreography of a plated dinner, but we tend to do more relaxed, sharing plates'. One of their go-to kitchen-to-table pieces is a Field Company double-handled cast iron skillet, which is perfect for large servings and makes a dramatic statement on the table.

As for the drinks, guests at Alan and Christophers can expect anything whiskey-based, variations on martinis, or mocktails with interesting botanicals and garnishes inspired by shrubs from the garden. 'The Mother Shrub Cocktail botanicals from Gardenheir impart a kombucha-like sourness that I really like in a cocktail,' explains Alan.

Smokey Scents & Nostalgic Playlists

'We don't have any concrete rules when it comes to the finishing touches, just the healthy pressures of hosting and creating an atmosphere that feels warm and engages everyone together,' explains Alan.

An eclectic and nostalgic playlist always sets the scene, and Alan and Christopher's features everything from Francoise Hardy, Nina Simone, Margot Guryan, and Blossom Dearie, to the Zombies and even the Beach Boys. But there's one thing they never play at a dinner party, and that's jazz. 'There's there's something a little hokey about serving dinner and listening to jazz – it makes it feel like a movie that we haven't been cast in,' says Christopher.

From the auditory to the olfactory, scent is a big part of creating the right atmosphere for welcoming guests, and the smoky and leathery notes of Trudon's Ernesto candle make it the duo's absolute go-to for fall, both at home and in the Gardenheir stores. 'We think the vessels are exceptionally beautiful, and people always come in and ask what it is,' says Christopher.

However, at the table, they like the dishes (as opposed to the scent) to take center stage, and that always means creating height and interest with taper candles that enhance, rather than dominate, the table. 'Nothing really has the impact of a beautiful taper candle,' admits Alan.

Essentials for a Gardenheir-Style Gathering

Here's the Homes & Gardens edit of everything you need to host in the style of Gardenheir, with a mix of Alan and Christopher's must-haves, and our own selections to get their look.

In our Entertaining, Styled series, we spotlight tastemakers known for their effortless hosting style. Each feature opens the doors to their rituals of getting party-ready – from the linens they lay to the music that sets the mood and the finishing touches they swear by – with resources from their little black books of expertly-sourced designers and brands, so you can recreate the look at home.

And just like that we are in the middle of October. It's always at this time of the year I marvel in wonder at the passing of time and how we got here so fast. After a joyously warm start to the season, it finally switched to the distinct cooling that comes with mid October. A road trip from my home in the North Fork to Pennsylvania showed the beginnings of ‘The Turn’ (as I call it): the countryside transformation from lush green to layers of sumptuous rusty browns, muted burgundies, and ochres in the landscape. Now we're looking to crops to harvest in October to bring that rich color and bounty of the season to the table.

Now on to the other things that make fall fabulous. And one of those is Figs. I just love them, in the way I love white nectarines in Summer, as many ways as possible. One of my best fig memories (yes, I have a list) was on a trip to visit a friend in Italy who is an olive oil producer (Colonna Olive Oil, one of the best). They had a row of fig trees in the middle of the olive orchard, and we stood under the trees and gorged ourselves on freshly picked figs. It was divine.

So imagine my delight a few weeks back when the doorbell rang and, instead of a delivery driver, I found an egg carton of freshly picked figs – plump, purple and green –waiting casually on the veranda floor. This was the most welcome of visitors, made all the more charming for the inventive packaging. The giver? My landscaper, Leo, a 70-year-old Russian immigrant who moved to the US without a scrap of English more than 30 years ago. (He looks 60 and swears the secret to his youthful countenance is a daily set of 100 pull-ups followed by a shot of vodka. I like to think the homegrown figs don’t hurt either.)

I proclaimed it one of the best gifts I’ve ever received, and Leo was so delighted that another batch arrived this week. He often brings me little offerings – sometimes bulbs, last week a bare-root persimmon tree, and once, a bucket of golf balls. I don’t play golf, but I smiled and thanked him all the same. These simple gestures never fail to delight me.

The first rule of harvesting figs is to ensure they are ripe – just soft to the touch, but not so far gone they split on sight. They’re at their best from August to October, ripened by the sun, but the early ones start in June if you’re lucky. The second rule? As soon as you have procured one, pop it into your mouth immediately and savor the honeyed sweetness. This, for me, is the definition of simple luxury.

But, since there has been a glut this season, I’m looking at more ways to prepare them besides just sneaking them during snack times.

Short Order Figs

Breakfast: Greek yogurt, topped with quartered figs, a drizzle of maple syrup (I’ve tried extra virgin olive oil as well), toasted slivered almonds, and a teaspoon of chia seeds. Delicious.

Lunch: There are a few options: winter greens (endive, radicchio, arugula, or a mix), torn open figs, some toasted hazelnuts, crumbled goat cheese or English Stilton, simply dressed with a vinaigrette of lemon, olive oil and Dijon mustard seasoned with salt and pepper. Or simply serve with a few well chosen cheeses like English Stilton, chunks of Parmesan, goat's cheese or Manchego.

Dinner: Or, even simpler, I get the best Prosciutto I can find, thinly sliced that day if possible, layer it on a plate, top with sliced figs, and drizzle with very, very good extra virgin olive oil, the best you can source. This is, to me, the best kind of healthy because it feels luxurious and decadent.

Dessert: I like to bake figs drizzled with a red wine syrup spiked with star anise and black pepper, with a few thyme leaves and topped with chopped toasted pistachios, served with mascarpone or studded in a fragrant almond or pistachio cake or claflouti (take any similar recipe and substitute figs).

Red Wine Baked Figs with Thyme and Star Anise

Take 10 to 16 fresh figs, enough to loosely fit a baking dish, and quarter them at the top without cutting all the way through; in a small saucepan combine ½ cup red wine, ¼ cup sugar, 1 whole star anise, a few black peppercorns, and a grind of black pepper, bring to a boil and then simmer until thick and syrupy, about 5 minutes; while that’s reducing, preheat your oven to 350°F, place the figs in a baking dish cut-side up with a few sprigs of thyme then pour the warm syrup over the top and bake for 10 to 15 minutes depending on size, just until softened; let cool for a minute or two, then spoon a little mascarpone into the center of each fig and finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped pistachios, serving warm with syrup spooned over.

Styling It Up

While tempting, I draw the line at serving these of all on one day or in one meal. But I do think about how I’m going to style them once they make it to my table. Sometimes I will place a marble bowl like this one from Olive Atelier in the center of the table, coupled with a pitcher of dahlias, and that serves as my centerpiece.

If you are lucky enough to have one of the best fig trees in your garden (or even indoors), cut branches with small green figs still attached for a spectacular display. For the linens, this year I’m going against my habitual blues and greens for a bounty of plum, aubergine, oxblood – all the dirty reds – in monochromatic layers, using fruits for an Old Masters-worthy setting.

Outside of cooking I’m planning my return to weekly entertaining with my Sunday Roast (more on that in the next column or in my newsletter Bread & Gravy, At the Old Stables), and I’m picking Dahlias like a mad lady. I planted them two ways this year: in raised beds, to see if I can avoid digging them up for next year’s crop, and in the front garden. It’s my first year – a test run for the future cutting garden and next year’s flower haul – and I’ll admit, I’m feeling rather smug about it. I did get them in a bit late, so I’m not sure they’ll all bloom, but with diligent pinching and cutting, they’ve been generous, flowering well into October.

This & That: Found This Week

• My one thing for the kitchen this week is to invest in an excellent chef's knife. And yes, it is definitely an investment, but one that will transform your cooking life. I love the Miyabi range from Williams Sonoma.
• Reading: Keith McNally’s I Regret Almost Everything, the famed restauranter's (known for Balthazar, Morandi, Odeon) seeming ode to regret, but really I find it an honest and nuanced memoir that is hiding in plain sight of a life well lived. It’s charming, poignant, and self-deprecating all at the same time. If listening to the audiobook, Richard E Grant is the narrator.
• Drinking: Lini 910 Labrusca Lambrusco Rosso, the much-maligned Italian sparkling red wine. Find a dry one, and it's a game-changer. Particularly good with all the figs, and roast turkey (Thanksgiving is coming).
• Cooking from Andy Baraghani's The Cook You Want to Be, his simple and sumptuous Persian-inspired recipes have me wanting to cook nearly every one. I made the Crispy Plum and Pistachio Cake and substituted the plums for figs.
• A fabulous Persian carpet found on Facebook Marketplace (my obsession for vintage finds). It's all rich reds, pure wool, and has the certificate of authenticity. Nothing makes me more satisfied than a good find.

Shop My Seasonal Picks

At Anna's Table is a biweekly column and modern guide to Savoir-Faire, in which Homes & Gardens' Editorial Director, Anna Last, shares a glimpse into the mindset of the moment, as well as what she's doing in her kitchen and bringing to the table with the best of the season's produce.

Afternoon tea might be a wonderful excuse to gather some friends and show off the teapot you found at a flea market, but so much of its charm lies in its illustrious heritage. The custom dates back as far as 1840, when England's seventh Duchess of Bedford began to request a light meal (and a pot of tea) between lunch and dinner. Soon, the British upper classes were hooked.

These days, gowns and fine china aren't a prerequisite; and since afternoon tea is no longer a fixed part of the day, it has evolved into a more deliberate and thoughtful affair. Take designer Bryan Graybill's afternoon tea ritual: loose leaf tea at 4pm, brewed in a vintage teapot. To him, 'it marks a pause in the day’s work and commitments. It matters because it creates rhythm – ceremony without fuss.'

At its heart, afternoon tea is a historic British tradition – but there are so many ways to bring it into the modern day. Whether you're desperate to recreate the classic Victorian experience, you want to bring some glamor to your next gathering, or you're just looking for a reason to bake some scones, here's how to host an afternoon tea, according to the experts.

1. Set the Scene

Begin with one aim in mind: producing a feeling of understated elegance. Think about your hosting style and the look you'd like to create, whether you lean towards a vintage-inspired tablescape or a more rustic setting.

A simple tablecloth can make all the difference. Tradition dictates something lacy or embroidered, often featuring an intricate botanical motif, but there are some beautiful non-chintzy styles (take the gorgeous Sintra tablecloth from Serena and Lily, for example). As Bryan Graybill notes, it isn't about grandeur or spectacle, but simply 'creating an atmosphere of ease'.

Flowers can be a wonderful starting point, too – a simple hydrangea centerpiece or a dahlia table arrangement can instantly bring a sense of sophistication to your table with minimal effort.

2. Choose a Menu Guided by Tradition

Table decor is your foundation, but the star of every afternoon tea is, of course, the menu. According to Maya McKinney from the TwenTea Company, hosts should 'start with light savories (like cucumber-herb or smoked salmon), move to warm scones with cream and jam, and finish with mini desserts such as lemon tartlets or macarons.’

It's a joy to craft your treats by hand, but if you're pressed for time, you can always add finishing touches to shop-bought cakes and scones; think extra toppings and edible flowers for a refined take.

'Everything is typically sized so that it can be eaten in just a few bites,' explains etiquette expert Nick Leighton. However, he continues, 'if you don't want to stick with tradition, however, that's fine: after all, no one can resist warm chocolate chip cookies or brownies on a platter.'

3. Give Your Afternoon Tea a Modern Twist

It's always a good idea to set up your afternoon tea with tradition in mind, but that doesn't mean you can't experiment.

‘Traditionally, tea would be served somewhere between 2pm and 4pm, but who doesn't like a nice beverage and tasty nibbles in the middle of the day?' reflects Nick. 'It can be for any occasion or no occasion – it's lovely for birthdays, showers, a cozy book club evening, or really any afternoon gathering.’

A contemporary afternoon tea is often a more laid-back experience: why not ask your guests to bring treats to share (for a twist on hosting a potluck) and use mismatched china as serveware, instead of a traditional matching set.

4. Bring in Considered Details

A truly impressive afternoon tea is all about the thoughtful details. Add handwritten place cards and name card holders like these heirloom silver ones from William Sonoma; tuck sprigs of seasonal foliage into simple napkin rings (we like these white stoneware napkin rings from Crate & Barrel); and finish by displaying your desserts on an elegant cake stand (like this cream scalloped cake stand from Magnolia).

Even the most unassuming pieces in your hosting closet can become thoughtful additions to an afternoon tea tablescape; cream taper candles, for example, are the perfect Victorian-inspired detail. As Bryan notes: 'It doesn’t need to be grand, just deliberate.'

5. Offer a Choice of Elevated Drinks

The classic afternoon tea experience will always involve loose leaf tea, usually brewed in an ornate teapot (like this berry and thread teapot from Bloomingdale's) using a tea strainer (you can pick one up on Amazon like the Teabloom universal tea infuser). It's the tea that creates a real sense of ceremony; as Bryan reflects, it's 'one of the few rituals left that engages all the senses without requiring screens or spectacle.'

If you're hosting a crowd, it's best to provide a variety of drinks. 'Offer a selection for guests to choose from, including something that's caffeine-free,' says Nick. 'Serve milk, sugar, and lemon slices to go with it, and you can also serve coffee, too.'

For a truly memorable touch, pour glasses of Champagne or prepare a seasonal cocktail such as a spiced pear belini. Ice cubes with berries or flowers are another lovely touch that shows you’ve really put in the effort.

Shop Everything You Need to Host an Afternoon Tea

Last month, Designer Bryan Graybill shared his 'charcuterie formula' and how to host a grazing moment that feels generous, chic and inviting. This month, we talked to him about another reason to get together in a way that feels casual yet special: Afternoon tea.

For Bryan Graybill, tea is less about tiers of petits fours and more about punctuation. 'It marks a pause in the day’s work and commitments,' he says. 'It matters because it creates rhythm – ceremony without fuss.' At the Dowager Inn in East Hampton, his tea ritual has become a daily marker, a fixed window of 45 minutes that feels refreshingly finite. 'I have a short attention span,' he laughs. 'Tea is the perfect social event because it has an easy in and a fixed out.'

Civility, Served Hot

What draws Graybill to tea is its gentleness. 'For me, tea is shorthand for civility,' he says. 'It’s the easiest kind of hosting. You’re not dazzling with courses or wines – you’re creating an atmosphere of ease.' As a designer, he relishes the small details that make the difference: the thin lip of a porcelain cup, the fold of a linen napkin. 'It’s design at its most intimate,' he explains.

Reclaiming A Lost Art

Graybill sees daytime entertaining as a neglected ritual, abandoned in the rush toward productivity and spectacle. 'Breakfast became transactional, and dinner became performative. The hours in between were lost,' he notes. Tea, he argues, reclaims those forgotten hours. 'It doesn’t need to be grand, just deliberate. We’re all starving for pause, for ritual.'

Four O’Clock, Properly Done

At home, Graybill makes tea around four o’clock, often with his partner, Dan. His go-to is Fortnum & Mason’s Victoria Grey, perfumed enough to stand on its own, but he also keeps Daylesford's Organic Digest Fennel & Liquorice tea (a caffeine-free digestive) on hand, along with a Fortnum’s silver tea strainer. 'Even if it’s just the two of us, I’ll pull out proper china,' he says. 'It’s not about performance – it’s about respecting the moment.' For Graybill, the choreography itself is part of the charm: the kettle boiling, the steam, the fragrance filling the room. 'It’s one of the few rituals left that engages all the senses without requiring screens or spectacle.'

The Grandeur Of Small Things

For Graybill, the tools of tea are as important as the ritual itself. 'All things taste better poured from a Hermès teapot,' he jokes, though he also treasures his collection of vintage Rosenthal china. Trays – whether sourced from Woodnutt Antiques in London, Walter at Table Art LA, or Christofle’s Malmaison line – are always at the ready. Silver teaspoons from a Church Street silversmith, pressed linen cocktail napkins from Sferra, and even tear-off cotton napkins from Hudson Grace elevate the smallest details. But, a warning: it must be edited. 'You don’t need ten things,' he says. 'A good tea, a proper pot, and one hero cake – or even just a couple of cookies on a small plate. The charm is in the restraint.' Tea is about intimacy, not abundance.

The Butler’s Pantry As Proscenium

In Graybill’s East Hampton home, the butler’s pantry doubles as a tea station. 'I treated it like a laboratory,' he explains. Shelves display jars of loose-leaf teas, trays are stacked and ready, and everything is visible so guests can help themselves. 'It’s functional, but also a kind of stage set. When everything has its place, it empowers guests to be self-directed.' Strong teas line one row, herbals another. Trays are ready for quick transport from pantry to table. But for Graybill, tea is less about performance than presence. 'It’s civility, ease, and design distilled into forty-five minutes,' he says. 'An interlude, not a spectacle. A pause worth protecting.'

Bryan Graybill's Tea Time Essentials

This feature is part of our exclusive series, A Designer’s Guide to Entertaining, with interior designer and seasoned host Bryan Graybill. Each month, Bryan will offer expert advice, holiday hosting tips, and effortless ways to create a more inviting home – beginning with the spaces where everyday life and memorable gatherings naturally unfold.

When I first came across the LA designer Peter Dunham's work with Hudson Grace, I fell for his gorgeous prints and complementary colors which were made for mixing and matching. I'm so delighted that he's collaborated with the brand once more to bring my fall tableware ideas to life for fall with the new Hudson Grace x Peter Dunham Collection.

The Hudson Grace x Peter Dunham Summer collection won me over with the mix of large and small prints, and the soft, versatile palette of spring/summer hues that were just perfect for layering. With this second collection, the designer has done it again, bringing a wonderful ease to hosting.

Hudson Grace founder, Monelle Totah says 'The result is another celebration of authentic, joyful entertaining that makes you want to gather everyone around the table.' There are 52 pieces in the collection, including plates and table linens, which start at $24, and are available online and in-store from today (October 13).

Peter Dunham's design style embraces relaxed Californian living, but he has also peppered this collection with influences from Europe and the Middle East for an eclectic feel. The Italian hand-painted plates and block-printed linens ephasise the authenticity of these pieces which have been produced in small batches.

I love the way that the prints, such as the border sunburst plates, can be combined with the salad and appetizer plates to create a multi-layered look, or equally could be used alone or alongside other pieces that you might already own.

There's a wider range of hues in the new Hudson Grace x Peter Dunham Collection collection than in his first, allowing for more flexibility when it comes to mixing and matching. You can create so many different looks by combining the pieces in different ways, from a blue and white classic tablescape to a Middle Eastern-inspired look or a Mediterranean feel with olives and ochres. Even a festive feel with green and red (as shown above).

Decorating with rust is right on trend, and Hudson Grace's Spice Edit taps right into that, with a range of pieces to style with Peter Dunham's rich, Middle Eastern inspired plates and linens. Hudson Grace has also compiled an Olive Edit and an Indigo Edit to help shoppers create a wonderfully eclectic look with Dunham's new collection.

I, for one, am hoping that we continue to see more from this winning collab, but for now, I'm filling my cart with these pieces for my fall table settings.

My picks from the Hudson Grace x Peter Dunham collection

I love the ease of this fall collection by Peter Dunham but if you favor heritage prints or are looking for something that has a more nostalgic feel for Thanksgiving hosting, we've also just discovered the William Morris tableware at Williams Sonoma, which is bold, rich, and just as versatile for layering.

For Clodagh McKenna, cooking has always been about connection. Connection to the seasons, to the people she loves, and to the joy of gathering around a table. The Irish chef, author, and television presenter has spent 26 years building a life that celebrates those simple pleasures, dividing her time between a 100-acre sustainable farm in Hampshire and her home in Chelsea.

As she releases her new book Clodagh's Happy Cooking, (available on Kindle from October 30 and in hardback from February 3), Clodagh invites us into her world for this month’s How I Host. She shares four comforting seasonal recipes and her favorite fall table decor ideas, all designed to spark that feeling of warmth, nostalgia, and togetherness that defines her approach to entertaining.

Homes & Gardens' How I Host episode

How Clodagh creates her gorgeously rich seasonal tablescape

'The first thing I think about when I’m doing my tablescape, is what food I’m going to serve and also what the weather’s like outside – the seasons,' says Clodagh McKenna as she flings a beautiful wide-striped tablecloth from her tableware collection, Honey by Clodagh, in her signature caramel and honeycomb tones across her dining table.

Clodagh's tablescape embraces the current trend for using rust in interior design, as well as tapping into the mindset of the season. 'I love the colors of autumn – the browns and this beautiful honeycomb, and with the flowers I like to pick up all those gorgeous tones. Look at these delicious chocolate cosmos.' She styles the deep brown blooms in her trio of burnt caramel vases, along with bold pink dahlias, vibrant copper beech leaves, seasonal hips, and Queen Anne's Lace (daucus carota 'dara'), for additional texture and softness.

'When my guests come over, I really hope that they feel like they’re at home and that they are excited about the food,' explains Clodagh. 'We love having people around in Ireland. We’re kind of renowned for it. I grew up around the table with my aunties and cousins, and people just dropping in. And there was always a pot in the oven,' she recalls.

'These are really beautiful plates [from Nom Living] – I love the ceramics and the textures,' says Clodagh. 'I also love these amber glasses [from Zara UK] as they really match my new linen,' she shares, as she carefully places a wine and water glass at each setting.

Clodagh is all about the little details. 'I do individual salt pinch bowls for everybody because I think that it adds just a real feeling of luxury,' she explains. She also places a couple of small rustic butter dishes on the table, topped with a sprig of rosemary and a sprinkle of sea salt, for another thoughtfully curated touch.

Finally, she places fresh figs at each of the place settings, slit open with a hand-written placecard just popped in. 'I’ve been doing this for years, and it’s so funny, I’ll go to all the trouble of doing amazing tablescapes, and what people really remember are things like the fig place settings,' Clodagh laughs. 'It’s the small details that really stay in people's memories'.

'These are my new Honey by Clodagh napkins,' says Clodagh, as she wraps a chocolate brown velvet ribbon around each one,' and I love doing hand-written menus for all of my suppers. It’s just a lovely little memory of the evening', she continues, adding the final touches to her table. 'It brings that gorgeous element of surprise when my guests come and can get excited about what they're going to eat.'

'I probably entertain at least once a week – the reason I love being a chef is that I love feeding my friends and family,' she muses. And as she lights the berry red taper candles, with a sense of understated ceremony, the doorbell rings signalling the arrival of her first guests.

Clodagh McKenna's cozy fall recipes

Taken from her new book, Clodagh's Happy Cooking, these recipes are wonderfully comforting for a fall gathering. On the menu in her How I Host video, is a delicious roast cauliflower, cashew, and garlic soup, with a cheesy, seeded loaf, followed by a slow-cooked boeuf bourguignon. 'We’re going to finish it off with a parsnip cake that has a gorgeous maple frosting, topped with hazelnuts, orange zest and a drizzle of honey from our farm,' adds Clodagh.

Roasted Cauliflower, Garlic, and Cashew Soup with Garam Masala Croutons

'We have so much cauliflower growing at the moment in our farm,' says Clodagh. 'Last year I had to come up with a million ways to use it, and this roasted cauliflower soup was one of the recipes.' She tosses the cauliflower florets with cumin, and turmeric and olive oil. After roasting for ten minutes, she adds in some cashews with 'gorgeous sage, and also some lovely garlic', along with another big glug of olive oil before roasting for a further 15 minutes.

Once roasted, Clodagh purees the cauliflower mix. 'See how creamy it is from the cashew?,' she points out. 'The last thing I put in is lemon – any creamy sauces are always elevated by a squeeze of lemon.' Finally she carefully places on top some 'beautiful, but usually forgotten cauliflower leaves', a scattering of croutons, and a drizzle of good quality olive oil.

Cheddar Seeded Sunflower Bread

The smell of freshly cooked bread just can't be beaten so whether you're a seasoned baker or dipping your toe in the world of bread making, this Cheddar Seeded Sunflower Bread is a wonderful one to try. The dough is made with yogurt and the loaf topped with your choice of seeds for a rustic and delicious crunch. Serve warm alongside the cauliflower soup or beouf bourguignon and your guests won't be able to get enough.

Slow Cooked Boeuf Bourguignon

'This Slow Cooked Boeuf Bourguignon smells so good already and I haven’t even opened the pot,' says Clodagh as she lifts her steaming sage green Clodagh Casserole Pot onto her kitchen counter. 'I made this yesterday. The beef is seared alongside seared and browned shallots, and autumn mushrooms. I always put my best wine in there, garlic, bay leaves, some herbs,' explains Clodagh. 'It’s always better the next day.'

Parsnip Cake with Maple Frosting

'Parsnip cake at this time of year is my favorite cake,' shares Clodagh. 'I love a savory cake as I don’t like things too sweet. And this is a very simple cream cheese maple frosting.' She uses maple syrup instead of powdered (or icing) sugar. 'It really makes that wonderful balance between the moreish savoriness, and the sweet creaminess'. To finish and add texure, Clodagh scatters some chopped roasted hazelnuts on top, a spinkling of orange zest, and a drizzle of honey. 'And that’s it!,' she says.

Shop Clodagh's cozy fall look

How I Host, an exclusive Homes & Gardens video series that invites us into the homes of chefs, entertainers, and tastemakers who celebrate the art of gathering. Each guest shares their own approach to hosting, weaving together memory and nostalgia with personal style – from timeless tablescapes inspired by family traditions to menus that tell a story. Expect ideas, recipes, and small gestures that turn every occasion into something beautifully memorable.

Every month in How I Host, the Homes & Gardens' team visits tastemakers – hosts, cooks and entertainers – to explore the gatherings they stage, from intimate lunches to lively dinner parties, uncovering how they craft spaces that feel effortlessly welcoming, convivial and creative.

Along the way, we take a close look at their approach to table settings, centerpiece styling, and the small details that make each event feel personal, from handpicked linens to clever serving ideas.

We also discover the recipes that bring their gatherings to life, from signature starters to indulgent desserts, sharing hosting tips and tricks that make entertaining at home inspiring, achievable – and memorable.

In her exclusive video for Homes & Gardens, How I Host with Clodagh McKenna, the chef and cookbook author shares her favorite recipes for fall hosting, including this crusty home-baked loaf, topped with crunchy mixed seeds, which is so wonderful alongside her Roasted Cauliflower Soup, another recipe from her new book, Clodagh's Happy Cooking.

Ingredients (makes one loaf)

• 2 ¾ cups (350 g) whole wheat flour
• 1 ⅔ cups (200 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 ½ cups (350 ml) milk
• 1 cup (250 ml) plain yogurt
• 4 ½ ounces (125 g / about 1 ¼ cups) sharp Cheddar cheese, grated
• For the topping: ½ teaspoon of any of these: pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, caraway seeds, sunflower seeds, cumin seeds, chia seeds, mustard seeds

Clodagh McKenna's method

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) convection or 425°F (220°C) conventional.
• Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt (this flour sifter from Amazon is ideal for the job) into a large mixing bowl.
• Stir in the whole wheat flour and the grated Cheddar cheese, mixing with clean hands until well combined. Make a well in the center of the mixture.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and yogurt (use the KitchenAid gourmet whisk from Amazon). Slowly pour this mixture into the well of dry ingredients. Using a fork, mix until all the flour is moistened and there are no dry patches. The dough should be quite soft and slightly sticky.
• Lightly flour your hands, shape the dough into a round loaf, and place it on a floured baking sheet.
• Using a floured knife, cut a vertical cross and then a diagonal cross across the top of the loaf, forming eight wedges (like cake slices). Don’t cut all the way through – only about two-thirds of the way down.
• Using a pastry brush (like this Walfos Silicone brush), lightly brush the top of the loaf with a little of the milk and yogurt mixture – this helps it brown beautifully.
• Sprinkle your chosen seeds evenly over the top of the loaf. The pattern of wedges and seeds should resemble a flower.
• Bake for 20 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C) convection or 325°F (165°C) conventional and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
• Transfer to a wire rack (these cooling racks from Amazon are ideal) and allow to cool completely before slicing.

If you love making homemade bread, we recently wrote about Joanna Gaines' bread slicer, which will make your kitchen feel like an artisan bakery. It's an investment but a seriously useful gadget if you make (and give away) a lot of homemade bread.

This luxuriously creamy (yet dairy-free) soup is one of chef Clodagh McKenna's favorite entertaining dishes for fall, as it showcases an often overlooked vegetable that is prolific on her farm at this time of year. In our exclusive How I Host video with Clodagh McKenna, she shares how she makes this rustic and flavorful starter from her new book, Clodagh's Happy Cooking, and you can find the full recipe below.

Ingredients (serves 4)

• For the soup
  • 1 ¾ pounds (800 g) cauliflower florets
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup (5 oz / 150 g) roasted cashews
  • 3 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage (these herb scissors from Amazon are perfect for the job)
  • 4 cups (1 quart / 1 liter) hot vegetable broth
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• For the aromatic sourdough croutons
  • 4 slices sourdough bread, cut into small cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Clodagh McKenna's method

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) convection or 425°F (220°C) conventional.
• On a large baking sheet (we love this Caraway non-stick ceramic baking sheet), spread out the cauliflower florets and chopped onion. Sprinkle over the turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper, then drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss to coat evenly.
• Roast for 25 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender and slightly charred at the edges.
• After 10 minutes of roasting, remove the tray from the oven, add the cashews, garlic, and sage, toss again, and return to the oven for the remaining 15 minutes.
• While the vegetables roast, make the croutons
  • Place the cubed sourdough bread on a separate baking sheet.
  • Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil, sprinkle with garam masala, and season with salt and pepper.
  • Toss to coat evenly and roast in the hot oven for about 10 minutes, or until the croutons are crisp and golden brown.
• Once the vegetables are roasted, transfer them (and any pan juices) to a blender or food processor (we recommend the Ninja Professional Plus kitchen system in our guide to the best blender food processor combos). Pour in the hot vegetable broth and blend until completely smooth.
• Transfer the blended soup to a saucepan or Dutch oven (this Lodge Dutch oven is a reliable buy that will last years), stir in the lemon juice, and warm gently over low heat. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• To serve: Ladle the hot soup into warmed bowls and top generously with the garam masala croutons, (try Martha Stewart's square ladle and you won't go back).

If you love warming soups at this time of year, try our herby fennel and cannellini bean soup with ricotta, which blends creamy soft cheese with fragrant fennel.

We've all been there – spent hours (perhaps days) pulling together a beautiful feast for Thanksgiving, only for it all to go cold just minutes after serving. I think I've found just the thing to add to my Thanksgiving checklist to ensure that my homemade dishes stay warm enough for second helpings and beyond – this VEPOKA Food Warmer Mat from Amazon.

It feels like a much more modern and portable version of the heated buffet carts of the 70s – my Nan had one and it always came out for Christmas dinner, but took up rather a large (and unsightly) space in the dining room for the rest of the year.

With seven temperature settings, easy-to-use controls and a range of colors to choose from, (only two are in the Prime Day sale though), the VEPOKA Food Warmer Mat from Amazonis both discreet and effective at keeping food warm for longer at large group gatherings.

While only two colors are available in the Prime Day sale I'm loving the subtlety of the brown and white as I know they'll blend seamlessly into my fall table decor ideas without being jarring when you place it in the center of your table.

At over 23 x 15 inches wide, the VEPOKA Food Warmer Mat from Amazon has plenty of space to accommodate all my pots and pans, from the Thanksgiving turkey to the roast potatoes, gravies and veg. And it promises 'swift, uniform heating' so there won't be any hotspots or cooler areas.

The 7-level temperature control has a range from 104 -212°F with an easy-touch control and changes color in a pattern around the edge as a visual cue that it's reached temperature. And if you're concerned about safety or have young children as I do, the built-in child lock and automatic shut off should set your mind at ease.

I also won't have to worry about damaging my waxed pine dining table as the durable silicone surface will ensure even heat distribution, and the silicone pad feet will protect the surface underneath. This also means it's incredibly easy to clean – I've been using silicone place mats for my kids for years, and they clean up in a single wipe.

And, unlike my Nan's old buffet cart, you can simply roll up the VEPOKA Food Warmer Mat from Amazon and detach the extra long (2.2m) power cable, for easy portability and storage.

I'm convinced by this simple, affordable, and space-saving way to keep your food warm for longer and I'm getting one now in the Prime Day sale.

More food warming gadgets from Amazon

Stove not big enough for hosting a crowd? We wrote about the new Smeg portable induction hob, which is a stylish and neat way to create extra cooking space which can be easily transported.

As hosting season rapidly approaches, it's time to reevaluate your home's aptitude for entertaining guests. Instead of relying on unattractive fold-up chairs that'll just clutter your closets when not in use, consider this unconventional, grounding, and chic seating choice instead: floor pillows.

Floor pillows aren't a new living room seating idea by any means. In fact, their use in interior spaces can be traced all the way back to ancient civilizations across the globe, from Egypt to China. However, the continued use of floor pillows is proof that this seating choice is one that's not only highly functional and practical, but worthy enough to stand the test of time.

Nowadays, floor pillows take many forms – ottomans, poufs, and even bean bag chairs are making a comeback. However, I find the most useful floor pillows are the ones that measure slightly larger and feel slightly firmer than traditional couch pillows. These styles are big enough to serve as extra seating for guests, but small enough to stash under your coffee table when not in use. Plus, they're stylish enough to become living room decor details to enrich the style of your space. And this hosting season, they're a home decor must-have.

You see, floor pillows eliminate the need for clunky, foldable chairs – allowing more room for guests to mingle about when hosting a party. They can make a room feel more comfortable, too. I recently noticed that interior designer Amber Lewis incorporated a floor pillow into one of her projects, and it sparked my interest in this clever yet underutilized seating idea.

Although Amber used the floor pillow in a playroom in this example, the uses for floor pillows in the home are vast. Of course, they make sense as extra seating in your living room (especially as we approach hosting season), but they can also become a key feature in a cozy bedroom, or even a comfortable spot in a reading nook.

Not only are floor pillows a practical choice for seating, but they add a layer of style to a room, too. 'With varied colors, textures, and patterns, floor pillows can introduce personality, contrast, or cohesion in the decor,' interior designer Deborah French tells me.

But the best part about floor pillows is that when they're not in use, they don't look out of place. They can decorate the room in which they occupy by leaning up against a wall or by stacking on top of each other, like shown in this room designed by interior designer Beata Heuman.

Shop cozy and stylish floor pillows

Whether you're looking for a cozy room idea or want to experiment with unconventional seating for your next house party, floor pillows are certainly worth your attention. They'll make your home more comfortable and add a level of style – all while being a highly practical decor detail.

Shop nine stylish floor pillows for your home, below.

Love the idea of floor pillows, but need something a bit bigger? Check out the viral WOWMAX couch bed. This boneless couch is completely rearrangeable – almost as if it were a bunch of floor pillows grouped together to form a cozy and plush couch.

My friends and I recently started a book club. Each month, we gather at one of our apartments to eat, drink, and discuss the book we've all just read. It's become an exciting ritual for us as a group – not only does it get us more involved in reading the hottest novels of the year, but it's an excuse to get the group together. And next week, it's my turn to host.

Although I've hosted lots of dinner parties and evening get-togethers at my place, I've never hosted a book club meet-up. And as I've started to prepare, I've come to realize that for a book club meeting, this isn't just about opening up the hosting closet, getting the snacks, and organizing seating – it's about setting the scene for a night of enriching discussions and lively debate. And the right decor and thoughtful touches can get you there.

I reached out to Alex Bass, Founder and CEO of Art Advisory & Interior Design Studio Salon 21, to share some advice on how to host book club at home. As an expert on all things hosting related, Alex knows a thing or two about setting up your space for an evening of stimulating conversation in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. She even has first-hand experience with hosting book clubs for Salon 21.

So, here are Alex's tips on ensuring comfort, creating ambience, assembling refreshments, and preparing yourself for an enlightening book club night at home.

1. Add comfortable but structured seating

When hosting any type of get-together at home, the comfort of your guests is one of the most important factors to consider. This goes for book club hosting, too. Instead of letting guests mingle anywhere, as if it were a normal party, Alex encourages a structured seating arrangement. This way, everyone will have a seat at the table and an equal opportunity to share their thoughts and opinions comfortably.

'We arrange the seating in a circular format to encourage open dialogue and foster a sense of inclusion,' Alex explains about her experience hosting book club. 'While cozy lounging has its charm, I prefer the structure and nostalgia of gathering around a table. It evokes the feeling of college seminar-style discussions, focused, thoughtful, and a bit elevated.'

Depending on the layout of your home or apartment and if space allows, consider organizing seating in a circular format, as Alex suggests. But regardless of how you organize the seating, it's always important that each guest feels physically comfortable – and cozy decorating ideas can help with that. Enhance your space with ample throw pillows, poufs, and blankets to keep guests feeling comfortable all night.

2. Create ambience with layered lighting

I think we can all agree that it's best to keep the big light turned off when hosting gatherings at your home. Although it's a strong light source, its output can be harsh and unflattering, and certainly not conducive to a comfortable book club environment. Instead of using the large overhead light, consider dimmed and layered lighting to create a warm and inviting ambience in your home.

'I tend to gravitate toward dimmed lighting in most settings,' Alex explains. 'It instantly softens the atmosphere and creates a sense of intimacy. A few well-placed candles or low, warm ambient lights can go a long way in setting the tone for meaningful conversation.'

You might also want to consider some small but strategically placed reading lights to help your guests find passages in their book to discuss, and that they can switch on as they need.

3. Set up a designated drinks and snacks table

One of my favorite parts of hosting people at my place is preparing all sorts of snacks and drinks for them to enjoy. Even when hosting a book club night, it's important to provide refreshments for your guests. According to Alex, 'light bites and wine are always welcome.'

But when hosting a book club, the snacks and drinks aren't the main attraction – the conversation and discussion is. 'I recommend setting up a designated snack table slightly off to the side so it doesn’t distract from the main conversation,' Alex advises. 'This allows guests to help themselves as they please, without interrupting the flow.'

Although not the highlight of the night, food and drinks are still important details to include when hosting book club at your home. Consider prepping your kitchen counter with plates (I'm loving these Brandon Maxwell Texas Toile Appetizer Plates from Pottery Barn), cups and bowls (this set of daphne glass serving bowls from CB2 are ideal) so your guests can set themselves up with a snack and a drink before beginning.

4. Set an agenda to help the evening flow

Of course, the main event of a book club night is the thought provoking conversation . If you feel pressure about being the 'leader' of the conversation as the book club host, or even about hosting book club in general, Alex offers some helpful tips.

'Having a loose agenda or set of talking points is helpful. While you want the conversation to feel organic, a bit of structure ensures everyone has a chance to contribute,' Alex explains. 'I also like to allow for some informal mingling before we sit down and begin. It's a nice way to ease into the evening and get everyone comfortable.'

Before your guests arrive, consider writing down some talking points in a notebook – I love Papier's trellis spiral notebook– you can refer to this throughout the evening if there's ever a lull in conversation. Plus, after guests have arrived and you've allowed time for mingling, you'll be prepared with a list of ideas and topics to discuss throughout the night.

Cozy book club hosting essentials

This advice from expert host Alex Bass is certain to help you host a successful book club meeting at home – in comfort and with confidence.

As we approach the fall and winter hosting season, read up on all of our holiday hosting tips according to interior designers. From layering your tablescape to properly scenting your home, these ideas are your key to stylish and stress-free gatherings.

As we enter a season of hosting and celebrating, fall table decor ideas will be at the center of the festivities. Whether you go bold with fall hues or keep things more simple with textured linens and warm neutrals, there are plenty of beautiful ways to welcome fall into your tablescape.

This season, when exploring how to decorate every room for fall, we're channeling nostalgia, handcrafted pieces, natural elements and understated luxury.

These are some of my favorite ideas to bring color, style and seasonal charm to your table this year, with what to shop to get the look.

1. Craft a centerpiece with pine cones and candles

A natural centerpiece looks effective but can be so easy to create. Here, a raised decorative bowl has been filled with fall foliage cuttings, pine cones, and candles; an easy and elegant table centerpiece that is perfect for a more rustic and organic look, whether for indoor or outdoor fall decor ideas.

'I love to pile pine cones onto a tiered cake stand and place sprigs of berries and small fall flowers between them,' says Homes & Gardens Managing Editor, Zara Stacey.

We also explore how to make a winter centerpiece in our step-by-step guide.

2. Dress a table with a seasonal garland

A fall-themed garland can be a captivating centerpiece that elevates your dining table, and can be a good way to style a dining table that's not in use. Nestle your garland among candle holders, pumpkins, gourds, lanterns, and other decorative items. Choose a garland that suits the type of dining table or tablecloth you have.

Jen Ebert, Digital Editor of Homes & Gardens, says, 'The secret to successful fall garland decorating is to be as generous with flowers and foliage as your budget allows. Nature-inspired centerpieces are a key trend for 2025 and there is nothing more satisfying than bringing in foraged rose hips, pine and bare branches from the garden.'

However you can get the look with some wonderful faux pieces too, if you don't have access to the real thing, or prefer something you can re-use without worrying about it spoiling.

3. Make your own fall pot pourri

Of course, it's vital to know how to make your house smell nice throughout the year, and a crafted, homemade fall fragrance, is the perfect way to make your dining table feel more festive and inviting during the winter months.

Learning how to make pot pourri is an enduring craft idea that you can try any time of year. Sustainable and handcrafted are big buzzwords in home design right now, and this idea leans right into that trend, whilst also being a wonderfully unique and affordable scented gift idea.

Gather together ingredients such as star anise, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, rosemary cuttings, and bay leaves, put them in a jar or decorative bowl, and let their fragrant scents fill your home with notes of fall.

4. Curate a fall floral centerpiece

Bringing the outside in is always a lovely way to ground your fall table decor ideas in nature. This could involve collecting a bouquet of seasonal flowers from the garden (learn how to create a hydrangea centerpiece from our Head of Gardens, Rachel).

Styling beautiful vases and bowls with fall stems, flowers, pinecones and more, can bring striking seasonal color, texture and visual interest to your table.

'I love this beautiful tablescape design by designer Birdie Fortescue,' says Jo Bailey, stylist and Homes & Gardens' print editor. 'The autumnal floral arrangements, enhanced by the deep orange vases and coordinating candlesticks, create an elegant contrast with the sky blue tableware, placemats, and tablecloth; establishing a more fresh fall scheme that feels wonderfully uplifting and inviting.'

While there's no beating fresh flowers, If you're looking for a more long-lasting table centerpiece design, then faux or dried flowers will last for Thanksgiving, Christmas and even beyond.

5. Add candles to bring a cozy glow

Fall evenings are the perfect time to bring out your best candles, if you want to create a warm and comforting atmosphere. ‘For dinners, I would minimize the flowers and add an array of candlesticks in tonal colors, preferably in glass, with colored candles to finish the look,’ says Birdie Fortescue.

Opt for novelty candles in pine cone or pumpkin shapes for a cute fall display, add a touch of sophistication with tall taper candles, or make it romantic with pillar candles in hurricane vases and tealights in twinkling glass votives.

6. Color match your florals with your linens

When putting together fall color schemes, you’ll want to consider a range of complementary colors. It’s important, however, that individual hues come in pairs at least, so think about color-matching your natural displays to your autumnal linens, placemats, and coasters.

‘Napkins and placemats with a shaped edge can be a great way to bring a fun element to a tablescape,’ says Birdie Fortescue. ‘Pick out the colors of your linens in the floral arrangements for a cohesive look. Early season dahlias in rich reds and autumnal ochres can look very effective.’

In this example, orange-pink roses pair with the floral seat cushions and napkins, while the purple foliage makes for a deeper pairing with the gray tablecloth.

7. Mix linens for a layered and comforting effect

There's nothing new about laying a tablecloth, but choosing one that has a lovely texture and hue for fall and combining it with other table linens for that layered look will give your table more of a styled feel. Layered textures are a key trend for 2025, mixing cozy, natural fabrics with contrasting finishes to create a dynamic look.

‘A tablecloth instantly gives the effect of warmth and homeliness,’ says interior and tableware designer Birdie Fortescue. ‘Why not add a coordinating printed napkin and placemat? It is the perfect time to follow the trend of subtly mixing patterns.’

Layering up textured and patterned table linens will give the sensation of being all wrapped up from the outside chill and bring a sense of coziness to your table.

8. Bring in jewel-toned glassware

Glassware is often an overlooked element in table decor, but switching out wine glasses for more colorful alternatives can instantly add a fall feel to your decor. Rich jewel tones, like these plum stemless drinking glasses from Crate and Barrel (pictured above), as well as moss green and amber are set to be the shades of the season this year.

'Amber glassware is having a resurgence and it's ideal for a fall table – the glow when candlelight catches it will help to create a cozy feel. Use black as an accent for a more contemporary look and consider a terracotta runner for an earthy base,' says Jennifer Ebert, digital editor at Homes & Gardens.

It's a simple and easy switch to make that will instantly elevate your fall table decor. Plus, if your glassware is going to be on your table, you might as well make it decorative, too.

9. Decorate with seasonal berries and produce

Pumpkins in their many shapes and sizes make for wonderful fall table decor ideas, but they're most impactful when combined with other decorative seasonal vegetables.

‘When it comes to fall table decorations, I prefer a slightly pared-back look that still brings plenty of drama. I use pumpkins and gourds to create a really lovely centerpiece; try to choose different colors and sizes to give your display a sense of scale, and mix in lots of fall berries. Don’t forget to add plenty of candles to create a cozy atmosphere,' says Sue Jones, co-founder of OKA.

On this table, a selection of gourds have been arranged in a rustic wooden basket, and surrounded with candles and berries. The decor of varying heights creates a visually appealing table decor without impeding on the view across the table.

If you're still getting set for Halloween (it's just around the corner), and are looking for some spookier twists for your table, we have plenty of stylish and eerie Halloween table decor ideas, too.

This feature is part of our exclusive series, A Designer’s Guide to Entertaining, with interior designer and seasoned host Bryan Graybill. Each month, Bryan will offer expert advice, holiday hosting tips, and effortless ways to create a more inviting home – beginning with the spaces where everyday life and memorable gatherings naturally unfold.

Last month, Designer Bryan Graybill shared his approach to kitchens as functional theaters, and how his separate 'cutting room' provides a space to be messy and relaxed behind the scenes while he's hosting. This month, we talked to him about his 'charcuterie formula' and how to host a grazing moment that feels generous, chic and inviting.

Bryan believes that the best parties don’t revolve around courses, they revolve around conversation. And for him, nothing creates that atmosphere better than charcuterie. 'I love that it’s a self-directed activity,' he says. 'Guests can graze at their own pace, linger, and talk without the formality of plated service. It’s abundant but never heavy-handed.'

More than a cheese plate, Graybill sees charcuterie as its own style of entertaining, something that is as much a part of the evening as the setting or the playlist. At Bryan's East Hampton Home, The Dowager Inn, Graybill recently staged a spread that paired charcuterie with devilled eggs and baked cheese straws. 'Guests were in heaven,' he recalls. Another one of his favorite moves? Rolling butcher paper out across a kitchen island, then piling it with cheeses, nuts, dried fruit, and cured meats. 'Fill the sink with ice and bottles of wine, lay out glasses on a tea towel, and let guests serve themselves. It’s relaxed, self-directed, and you get to enjoy the conversation.'

His approach to this style of entertaining has changed and loosened over time: 'Early on, I over-edited – two cheeses, one ham, very controlled. Now I’m more generous, but still disciplined. It’s about creating the illusion of excess without actual waste.'

Here, we’ve collected a few of his best practices for transforming a charcuterie moment from an appetizer into an invitation. 'It’s about generosity and ease,' he says. 'The food becomes the entertainment. You don’t fuss, you don’t plate – you just set the stage and let the night unfold.'

It is all in the edit

Like any good designer, Graybill insists that the key to an elegant spread is restraint. 'Too many people pile on everything they can find at the deli counter. You need discipline – edit like you would a room. Use a restrained palette, contrasts in texture, and create breathing room.' That means leaving space on the board, arranging items in rhythm – soft next to hard, salty against sweet – and avoiding the dreaded sense of clutter. 'It should feel generous but never chaotic.'

Set the whole scene

What you put on your charcuterie board is almost as important as where you put it, according to Graybill. 'I treat it like scenography,' he says. 'Lighting low, a generous table, and the board placed where people naturally circulate – usually the kitchen island or a central table. It should feel like a discovery, not a centerpiece.' He avoids putting it on the dining table as if it were a plated meal. Instead, he wants guests to stumble upon it, drawn in casually, as if the food had simply appeared.

Be a discerning shopper

Graybill's formula is straightforward: one salty cured meat, one assertive cheese, one creamy cheese, dried fruit, and something acidic like cornichons. Almonds are always welcome – but not the oily Spanish kind. 'And please, no supermarket salami roses,' he laughs. 'Anything too sugary or overly staged feels false.'

Atmosphere is everything

Even modest ingredients can be elevated with the right staging. 'Candlelight makes even supermarket Cheddar feel luxurious,' Graybill says. Surfaces matter, too – wood, marble, or earthenware boards, never plastic trays. Background music sets the tempo of the evening: conversational but spirited. 'Nina Simone works wonders,' he notes, 'or Sarah Vaughn.'

Little touches make a big difference

Small gestures go a long way in making charcuterie feel chic. 'Use vessels: a ceramic bowl for olives, a silver dish for nuts, a linen napkin under a loaf of bread,' Graybill suggests. Break up the flatness of a board with pedestals or stacked boards for height. And never leave cheeses untouched. 'Cut into them before guests arrive. Otherwise, it feels like a museum display.'

Shop Bryan Graybill's essentials for effortless grazing

I love dipping into the newest decor trends, but I'll always go back to heirloom brands for a dose of design inspiration that I know won't age. The latest tableware drop to catch my eye is built to stand the test of time and merges the aesthetic brilliance of two iconic American brands: Herman Miller X Heath Ceramics.

Bringing together beloved furniture house Herman Miller and California-based studio Heath Ceramics, the 'Gathered' collection offers 7 vibrant new pieces. You'd be forgiven for thinking they were plucked straight from the 1950s as they have the feel of dining room thrift store finds. The collection includes bowls, mugs, dinner plates and candle holders, and reimagines archival designs from Heath's history, whilst offering the sleek functionality that Herman Miller is loved for. If you're looking for fall table decor ideas, this collection will blend so beautifully with more statement collections, like Pottery Barn's Thanksgiving table decor. And it will really stand out if you give Magnolia's fall table setting idea a try, with a bare, rustic table.

I love that each piece in the Herman Miller X Heath Ceramics collection has a story to tell: everything is handmade in California using Heath's historic kilns, which were originally built in the 1950s (hence that gorgeous retro look). While they are a bit of an investment, with pieces starting at $33 for a candle holder, these limited-edition pieces are so versatile, and aren't just designed to be talking points; they'll be admired for years to come, making them good value long term.

But it was the striking colors that really won me over – and it turns out that Heath didn't just use archival designs for the collection, but archival glazes, too. The earthy 'turmeric' and 'yuzu' shades are both heritage finishes, alongside the vibrant 'sunflower' hue. I'm leaning into uplifting aesthetics like the Scandi maximalism trend this fall, and the Herman Miller X Heath Ceramics collection will provide the perfect color palette to start from.

The Herman Miller X Heath Ceramics collection might be built on two impressive legacies, but there's newness, too – most notably the candy-pink 'blossom' colorway and the 'pesto' green. Together, the plates, bowls and mugs create a faultless fall tablescape – with a few surprises thrown in, like the handsome coupe serving platter in lemon yellow, and the unmistakably mid-century candleholder in cranberry red.

I'd love to layer up these retro-inspired ceramics for a cozy, fall gathering, especially when I'll be adding a bit of design history to my dining table, too.

Shop the Herman Miller x Heath Ceramics collection

I've been shopping around for colorful pieces to elevate my seasonal table settings, and I haven't just had my eye on the Herman Miller X Heath Ceramics collection; I'm also coveting maximalist tableware, and another recent design collab between Gustaf Westman x IKEA, which brings bold color and sculptural silhouettes to the table.