Hosting A Stylish Dinner Party

How to host a stylish dinner party at home – Advice from Sam Hood, co-founder and chief creative officer of AMARA

Key colour trends:

Sam says, “Warm shades of orange and vibrant citrus – With our thoughts towards the colder months ahead the trend for warmer colours bring a brightness and happiness into the home. In particular, shades of orange are on the ascension; from vibrant citrus shades to muted peach tones and rich terracotta hues. It is associated with warmth and positivity, evoking feelings of adventure and cheerfulness.”

Two key tablescaping trends:

Sam says;

“The Golden Touch – The trend for bright luxury table settings isn’t waning with our love for warm metallics and luminous accessories. Combine with other luxury materials such as marble looking dinnerware and textured linens to really bring your table to life.”
“Rustic Elegance – Using natural materials this is a look that is timeless with a nod to the traditional with understated elegance. Soothing colours with delicate flourishes of pattern offer a welcoming and homely feel, and can be enhanced by seasonal, freshly cut greenery and flowers.”

Dried flowers are no longer for your nan’s dining table!

Sam says, “Artificial plants, and in particular dried flowers – have seen their popularity grow with the thoughts of sustainability in mind but also for the love of the 70’s when everyone had pampas grass in their homes. It is a great way to have your table decorated in a more semi-permanent, seasonal style and they can be used time and again, mixing stems to create a different look for each occasion.”

Got a large table? Go big and bold!

Sam says, “If you’re working with a big space, you can play with height using candlesticks and tealights and add accessories such as baubles and additional greenery. A large floral arrangement or a statement wall hanging will really bring your table to life – go big and bold for dramatic effect.”

Hostess without the mostess? Centrepiece tips for those with limited space:

Sam explains, “For those with limited space, place several tea lights or small vases filled with foliage along the centre of the table.This will create an ambient space that doesn’t impact conversation but also consider an overhead piece using seasonal green foliage or why not try and create a hanging ‘cloud’ using pampas grass?”- If you’re wondering where to buy them, you can shop dried pampas grass at Shop East Olivia.

Bored of wine? Mix it up with cocktails!

Sam says, “There is a constant love for cocktails at AMARA and our range of glasses to suit the different types is fabulous. There are no limits on style, design and even colour – anything goes!”

William Hanson, adds: “Cocktails are often delicious but can be labour-intensive. For dinner parties, it’s best to stick to cocktails that are relatively easy to produce, especially if you are also busy supervising the cooking. Some cocktails, like a Negroni, can be made ahead in bulk and kept in a pitcher or glass jug, or you can use the NIO Cocktails to more easily and quickly produce something that will start your dinner with style.”