What is your favourite hosting tradition, and why does it hold special meaning for you?
Before I get started on getting ready for guest arrival, I'll spend the morning on a long walk and play with my dog at the park or beach. I'll stay off my phone that morning, starting the day on a quiet note. I have a chance to start the day grounded to ensure I'm relaxed and at ease and in the right head space to be hosting.
Do you have any must-have tips for setting a memorable table or creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests?
I love to set out a drinks table, where guests can help themselves to a batched cocktail, wine, water, non-alcoholic drinks. This way there's no barrier to getting a drink, like asking the host for some water or a glass of wine when you arrive. I will usually set up a large dutch oven filled with ice as my ice bucket for bottles of wine and it keeps everything super cold!
What are you serving your guests this holiday season?
Lots of color! The holidays can be a time for beige food to take the stage but I really enjoy serving classic holiday dishes with a slight twist to add a personal touch, such as a rainbow potato mash from purple potatoes, sweet potatoes and dutch creams. It's so fun to serve food that is familiar to your guests, yet a version of it that they may never have seen or tried before.
How do you make your gatherings feel unique and personal?
I'll tailor a menu based on the guests that are coming, ensuring to serve drinks and food that I anticipate they would enjoy. I aim to make my guests feel at home when they come to my house and the best way to do so in my opinion is to personalize the offerings so they feel comfortable.
As we look ahead to holiday hosting, do you have any seasonal tips for entertaining with ease?
Prep as much as you can the days prior and select dishes to make that allow for preparation beforehand! The day of can be a dance of pulling one thing out of the oven whilst whipping another to ensure the timings are aligned, so take the most amount of stress off yourself by prepping sauces, marinades, pie bases or chopped vegetables in containers so that you can easily throw together the salad or just assemble the remaining of the pie.
Jenny's Same Time Tomorrow Picks:
Napkin Ring in Dark Brown
Line Tablecloth in Soft Pink
Bow Napkin in Sage
Scallop Placemat in Sage Checker