TABLESCAPES & “HOSTEST WITH THE MOSTEST”
Tips to hosting a successful dinner party, and our tablescape picks for a “Candlelit Soiree”
INTRODUCTION,
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“I’m going to make everything around me beautiful, that will be my life” - Elsie de Wolfe
“HOSTEST WITH THE MOSTEST”
Hosting a dinner party is an art form in itself, and I truly love that you can capture the desired essence by adjusting the right components. Inviting guests into your home to host, entertain, and dine is a true form of intimacy. In this section we will cover a handful of tips to hosting a successful dinner party, as well as looking at our tablescape picks for a “Candlelit Soiree”.
// TIPS TO HOSTING A DINNER PARTY WITH LOVED ONES
1/ Theme: I am an avid believer in a theme as I feel it creates a more dynamic interest and helps to ground the gathering with a sense of unity. The theme should inform all components of the gathering from the menu, to the beverages, as well as the tablescape, and the overall ambience.
2/ Seating Arrangements: As much as I love the idea of guests exercising free will and picking their own seats, a seating arrangement will always reign superior as to create a balanced experience, socially. I tend to prefer Conversation starters placed at the center, they will keep both ends of the table equally lively. Host and hostess placed at the opposite ends for efficiency of getting up, but also grounding the table. Couples to sit across from each other, rather than next to each other to encourage mingling. And lastly, talkative guests placed next to quieter ones to create equal engagement. This will keep th economy of conversation moving.
3/ Playlist: A well curated playlist that helps to support the theme of the evening. Playing the right tunes truly helps set the tone (not pun intended). It serves as a great tool for buffering silences, elevating the experience, and keeps the energy flowing. When I am creating a playlist for a gathering I like to configure the playlist to graduate in a slow progression. Starting more subdue, then gradually picking up pace in intensity as the evening progresses. I do this to match the energy at which gatherings typically move at. The start of the gathering is the guest orienting themselves to the space and each other, in this phase music that is less stimulating and more casual is preferred. As the evening progresses and the conversations begin escalating, laughter increasing, the music imitates by evolving into a more lively set list. Naturally this slow progression will help to avoid harsh transitions between tracks, and will subliminally guide the energy in the room.
4/ Ambiance: Arguably, this alone can make or break the gathering. Ambiance can help enhance the experience, support the theme, and most importantly it can influence the guests emotions. For a Candlelit Soiree, I’d opt for low lighting to promote intimacy, relaxation, and elegance. In regards to the background music, I’d ensure the volume levels were appropriate to support a relaxing atmosphere that facilitates conversation amongst guests. The decor would support the theme with a soft, tranquil aesthetic that isn’t over stimulating. Bonus points for including scents that pair with said theme. Always be sure the temperature in the space feels appropriate, that the layout feels organic to move about and mingle in, and that there is enough seating for everyone.
5/ Beverages: One of my favorite ways to add personality to a gathering is through signature cocktails & mocktails that pair cohesively with the menu. It is the last detail that truly makes everything feel carefully thought out. Ghia and Seed Lip are great options for the non-alcoholic aficionado.
// A TABLESCAPE GUIDE - “THE CANDLELIT SOIREE”
EDITORS TABLESCAPE PICKS -
When I reflect on dining experiences of when I was left in complete “awe”, it was not single handedly because of how well the cuisines were prepared; it was that in tandem with presentation. Being intentional about the selections used for serve ware and tablescape props will not only foster an interactive experience, they will also reflect the hosts personal style.
Hosting, preparing a menu, determining presentation, as well as capturing the essence is all an art form. It is a way to tell a story, insert your personal taste, create a memorable evening, and take your guests on a journey. Touching on the five senses such as sight, touch, taste, sound, and smell will only help convey that message and create a more intimate gathering.
Thank you for being part of Proper Form Studio publication,
As this article comes to a close, think of it as an open invitation to slow down, to curate with intention, and to find beauty in the quiet details of everyday life. Here’s to cultivating spaces, rituals, and moments that feel just right.
Until next time,
Dani
Love it!