8 Designers on How to Host a Festive Dinner Party

Words by Bridie Newman


The warm flicker of candles, the clink of wine glasses and the delighted “oohs” and “aahs” as the main course is unveiled – there’s nothing quite like hosting a Christmas dinner party for your nearest and dearest. But to host a dinner party that will be remembered and talked about for years to come – now that's what we all aspire to achieve.


Read on for tips on how to set your Christmas table according to top interior designers, discover what’s on a world-renowned chef’s menu, and find out which stylish gifts to expect – or hope – to receive as the perfect host this festive season.

What’s your Christmas table theme this year?

Martina Mondadori, founder and editor-in-chief at Cabana


“I love to have a different look every year, but the ‘bones’ remain the same key pieces. The dinner service and candelabra have seen generations of our Christmas dinners, and they give such a wonderful sense of tradition. This year, I will pair them with elegant and culturally rich pieces from Cabana's new Silk Road Collection – such as the gold, red and white Khiva tablecloth – that perfectly layer with the family china and silverware.”

What makes a table feel more festive?

Joanna Buchanan, founder of Joanna Buchanan


“I am obsessed with over-the-top, ultra-glamorous tables during the festive season – there are no children’s tables! Use all your most beautiful tableware and home accessories, heaps of foliage and fresh flowers, rich jewel-toned napkin rings and glimmering charger plates. Most importantly, layer, layer, layer – this is not time for a minimalist table. Maximalist, all the way. I also love using place card holders to mark cheese plates, desserts and gourmet buffets.”

What’s on your festive dinner party menu?

Thomas Keller, chef, restauranteur and designer of Hestan cookware


"My festive dinner party menu highlights the best seasonal ingredients with dishes that are elegant yet comforting. Think roasted root vegetables, a perfectly seared prime rib or succulent poultry, and a light, citrus-infused dessert to balance the richness. I love creating a warm, inviting experience through thoughtful, beautifully prepared food."

How will you be stocking the home bar?

Richard Brendon, founder of Richard Brendon


“I’ll be reaching for my Jancis Robinson universal wine glasses. Every wine I drink goes into that one glass and it lets the wine be the star of the show. Jancis once told me there is no reason why white wines should be put into smaller glasses as they can be just as expressive as reds, and I couldn't agree more. The home bar will also be stocked with tumblers, highballs, coupes and martini glasses. I truly believe that with the right glassware, every drink can feel like the best you've ever had.”

What do you include in a table setting?

Louisa Preskett Mobbs, co-founder of Maison Margaux


“More is more at Christmas, so go bold with pattern and detail. Start with a tartan or toile tablecloth as your base and layer your table in stages. I work with the rule of three; three plates, a charger, main and starter plate; and three glasses, a wine, Champagne and water glass. I love a colourful water glass to catch the light of candles and add depth. I finish with detailed and decorative napkins and as many candles as I can, at different heights, tied with velvet bows for an extra festive touch.

Do you include any bespoke elements on your table?

Alice Edwards, founder of Memo Press


"I love hosting at home in the run up to Christmas. Rather unsurprisingly, I always send a handwritten note as an invitation. In an age where communication is so easy, there's nothing more special than post arriving on your doormat. I would layer a tartan tablecloth with more simple crockery and stemware, finishing with handwritten olive-green place cards with gold script and a handwritten menu, decorated with scattered stars painted in gold.”


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What are some of the best gifts to receive as a host?

Edgardo Osorio, founder and creative director of Aquazzura


“Of course, a multi-purpose Aquazzura Casa tray or bowl is fail-safe, easy gift. Another gift that any host will love is a candle and I particularly like the Baobab candles for their unique designs and quality. If your host is into fitness and wellness, you can’t go wrong with the Therabody wave roller, and for the host who has everything, encourage them put their feet up after the festive season and treat them to an hour of pampering and pure indulgence in the Harrods Beauty Suites with a Chanel Privé facial.”

What’s on your dinner party playlist?

The design team at Bang & Olufsen


“When hosting, we opt for chilled, hygge-style playlist as the soundtrack for a cosy evening with friends. A few of the tracks include:


1. Gate Keeper by Cajsa Siik

2. Fever to the Form by Nick Mulvey

3. Underdog (Save Me) by Turin Brakes

4. A&E by Goldfrapp

5. By Your Side by Sade

6. Love & Hate by Michael Kiwanuka

7. Heartbeats by José González

8. River by Leon Bridges

9. Shiver by Lucy Rose

10. Fade Into You by Mazzy Star”


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