With the holiday’s here all I can think about it is decorating, cooking and entertaining—it’s the kind of creativity that I swoon over! Getting our home ready for all the festivities is magical in its own right. There’s something about Christmas merriment that give our homes that cozy feeling. Beautifully blending traditions from years past with the excitement and joy of the present season.
As we all prepare to gather with loved ones this year, I wanted to share a few of my hosting tips to assist you in crafting a warm and enchanting atmosphere.
STICK TO THE SEASON
With the season of celebrating comes abundance and what better way to share the magic of it all with non other than seasonal ingredients and botanicals.
The cornucopia of fruits like clementines, persimmons and pomegranates, along with roasted chestnuts and walnuts are so beautiful, why not incorporate them into your tablescape design?
They can be eaten and enjoyed too, leaving no waste behind.I enjoy adding fresh winter greens, whether they're arranged around my chandelier or used as a table runner. The more relaxed and effortless, the better!
SET THE TONE
This is the opportunity you have been waiting for to pull out all your heirloom dishware, the crystal, your fine silverware and all the patterned linens!
The more whimsical the more enchanting. Integrating a touch of tradition infuses time-honoured stories into the new ones you'll be recounting at your table this holiday season.
If you are feeling really festive, add a little favour for each guest as a takeaway from the evening, think sweet like a mini panettone or little bar of nougat. Our Lumps of Coal make for a playful favour too!
Lastly, there is nothing more romantic and cozy than cande-light, you don’t want it to be too dark that the food cannot be seen, but with the dimmers on you can achieve the perfect glow! My hand-painted candles add a touch of splendour.
Here are some of my favourite tablescapes, including my linen collection that are lovely for any season.
KEEP IT EFFORTLESS
Live by one simple holiday rule: Keep it effortless! Remember, you should be enjoying the festivities too!
We prefer selecting dishes that can be prepared in advance. When hosting guests, the last thing you want is to be stuck over the stove while your friends and family are enjoying themselves without you. Slow-cooked meats are a great option because they only get better over time. Try to avoid a la minute dishes to keep it stress free.
When it comes to crafting the perfect menu, I enjoy dedicating time to explore new recipes in cookbooks by my favourite chefs or restaurateurs. Our travels also provide excellent inspiration!
I like to determine my menu a few weeks before, along with creating a list of the ingredients we will require and a work back plan so that I am fully organized going into the holiday week.
In addition, set your table the evening before so that it is done, you’ll thank me later!
I intend on making Beef Wellington this year, and love that most of the prep can be done the day prior.
Here is my favourite recipe that is tried and true.
Photo Credit 515 Photo Co.
