Warm Welcome

My family does holidays at my house, I like people to walk into a memorable experience, starting with cocktails in the living room. You’d be surprised how much more comfortable people feel—especially if they don’t know one another well—when they have 45 minutes to mingle before dinner. 

Seating Savvy

I like a U-shaped table to maximize seating. One of my favorite thing in the world is a kids’ table. I recently made one using old linen for the tablecloth and napkins; the kids could draw and color on everything and then take their napkins home. As a bonus, they were too busy creating to notice that there were no electronic devices in sight!

Inviting Ambience

Entertaining is all about atmosphere, and a signature scent is a crucial touch. I happen to love a woodsy potpourri, but to each his own. Instead of one large centerpiece, I love to create little wild floral arrangements using jars or wine bottles that I scatter around. When the party’s over, guests can keep them.

Creative Cards

I went to a dinner party not long ago, and instead of place cards, the host had had a friend sketch little portraits of the guests to put on each plate. If you don’t have an artist friend, lots of great apps, like Enlight, turn photos into sketches or cartoons, or you can just use your favorite snapshots.

Table Tip

Nothing on the table needs to look perfect, because perfection doesn’t feel real. I love to layer textiles and use unusual materials for tablecloths or runners, like beautiful Peruvian potato sacks and textured drapery.  Creating different levels on your buffet is key. Putting dishes on cake stands not only makes the spread look better, it also makes it easier for guests to reach platters. If you don’t have stands, you can do something as simple as wrapping a box in pretty fabric or paper.

Just Desserts

My trick for dessert: Have everything bite-size so it can be grabbed with one hand. It’s easy, and you’re not walking around with a plate. It’s nice to have cakes or pies already sliced and plated because people tend to make a big mess when cutting. Do it ahead of time and everything look just a little more elegant.