There’s something uniquely magical about hosting in winter. The darker evenings, the slower pace, the desire to draw people in and create a cocoon of warmth - all of it invites us to elevate the simple act of having friends over. Think: soft light, comforting plates, and a table that feels considered yet completely unpretentious. Here’s how to master the art of winter hosting at home.
Set the Atmosphere
Winter hosting is all about creating a space that encourages people to let loose the moment they walk through the door. Start with warm, soft, indirect lighting - lamps over overheads, candles over anything harsh.
Add a soundtrack that quietly fills the room without ever dominating it. Here’s our jazzy dinner playlist.
A little hosting hack: light a scented candle in the bathroom. It’s a small touch but it goes a long way in making your home feel cosy and welcoming.
Set the Table
A winter table doesn’t need extravagance, but a little intention goes a long way. Layer textures - ceramics beautiful table linens - and some simple decoration, like, a sprig of greenery, candles, and/or some seasonal fruits that you can scatter along the table.
As guests arrive, have a few nibbles already out. Think: nuts, olives, crackers and a simple dip. Allow people to settle in comfortably while you finish any last touches in the kitchen.
The Menu
Keep the menu simple, fresh and comforting and choose dishes you’re comfortable preparing and - importantly - ones that can be prepped in advance.
Start with a light soup. It’s the perfect opener: warm, comforting, and easy to make ahead.
For the main, serve two vibrant, fresh salads to brighten the table:
A gorgeous, layered salad full of colour and this one - crisp, generous, and full of texture
… and pair them with a hearty, lemon pasta.
Keep dessert surprisingly simple with some high-quality dark chocolate, fresh berries, and whipped cream.
In the end, it’s about ease: soft light, good music, a thoughtful table, and food that’s simple yet beautiful: that’s all you need.
Comments