This festive season is well underway and party planning is filling up diaries throughout the winter, but are you prepared for the arrival of your guests?
After an uncertain 18 months, gatherings with friends and family is needed now more than ever, and making your home the perfect hosting environment is key to creating special memories.
With nearly 400,000 #finishingtouches hashtags on Instagram, Prestigious Textiles has created a guide on how to wow loved ones with interior décor and design this winter, paying close attention to key finishing touches that can elevate a room, from table settings to scents:
Seasonal table settings
Food and drink is often at the helm of any occasion, therefore making the table a dominant part of the décor can instantly highlight how striking a space is. Matching serviettes and placemats link well for a uniformed look, whilst using neutral colours such as grey allows the area to appear fresh and not overcrowded. Any autumnal or winter connotations such as leaves can also add to the warming aesthetic and keep a consistent theme throughout.
Utilise nature
Winter scenery can create a beautiful, picturesque backdrop to any occasion. Whether it’s a bright, low sunrise or if we’re lucky enough, crisp white snow, utilising the outdoors adds depth and dimension to a social gathering, and gives guests a talking point. Dress windows and doors with bespoke curtains to add warmth and frame the wintery scenes outdoors.
Extravagance
Don’t be afraid to go over the top. Extravagance and opulence are fun in the winter and now is the time to take things up a notch. Wow your guests from start to finish with luxurious Christmas decorations, to beautifully laid out tables, rich food and drink, and a striking colour scheme.
Blankets and throws
Layer blankets and throws to add warmth to a room. Adding thick layers to sofas and chairs can make guests comfortable, whilst also giving a relaxed, ‘make yourself at home’ feel to the party.
Festive scents
As well as making the room visually pleasing, having a Christmas playlist and a seasonal scent will fully immerse guests into the occasion. Light candles, incense or fragrance sticks to lift senses even further, focusing on classic festive flavours such as orange, cinnamon and winter spices. Having a pot of warm mulled wine will instantly fill the air with rich aromas. Try adding pot pourri to any hanging decorations or indoor fabric wreaths to give guests a scent as they walk past.
Handmade crafts
Handcrafted accessories add a wholesome, family feel to a room. From tree decorations, to knitted stockings or blankets, the homely appearance instantly links to the togetherness and excitement of the festive season.
Nicola Brumfitt, marketing director at Prestigious Textiles, says: “Last year so many of us missed the opportunity to see friends and family, so this year will be a big one for reuniting with loved ones. We hope our tips and suggestions inspire those with hosting responsibilities, making this year’s party season one to remember!”.
