With the Christmas season fast approaching, many of us get together for dinner - especially during this gorgeous spring weather - before the madness of the big day and the logistics of fitting in multiple visits to families, in-laws, adult children, work groups… I almost need a glass of bubbly just thinking about it!
If you are thinking about hosting a lovely pre-silly season dinner, LinenBarn has you covered for the perfect styling aesthetic! From chic minimalism (think White, Charcoal, Oatmeal or Natural Beige to something striking and elegant like the Moss Green) to Hamptons-style (Cloudy Blue, Mint Green or Turquoise), all the way through to girly prettiness (from Pastel Coral to Blooming Peony, Dusty Rose, Mulberry Milk and even the delicate Vintage White with Linen Lace), there is something for every taste and occasion.
 |
 |
Our stunning tablecloths pair perfectly with coordinating napkins in the same colourway or for something different, try a contrasting colour for every second setting at the table.
The stage is then set for some strategically placed candles (or lanterns if you are eating on a deck – check out West Elm or Provincial Home Living for a great range), a stunning floral arrangement and finally, the all-important food and a selection of amazing wines (including some really fabulous non-alcoholic ones if you are behaving!) with elegant stemware. Cutlery is easily sourced now in everything from matt black, gold, your classic sleek silver but I personally love the beaten-up vintage style collected from op shops.
While I love the idea of having a bougie caterer step in and make my life easier, I prefer to stick with pre-preparing some gorgeous salads using fresh herbs like dill and mint and topped with sumac, a giant ceramic plate of roasted vegetables and an amazing Moroccan spread using my gorgeous silver platter – which actually came from India. It’s fun, stress-free and brings out my kitchen creativity.
While I tend to go for an informal style with everyone plating up what they fancy, you might like to make yours much more formal with either a plated roast or a seafood banquet. The only limit is your imagination!
I like to finish up with cashew yoghurt sprinkled with flaked almonds and pomegranate arils, accompanied by a gorgeous Moroccan mint tea and for the hardcore, some Turkish coffee and delicate biscotti.
Any way you choose to style your dining table, your guests will be impressed with the beautiful presentation and leave with fun memories. Simply package up leftovers, stack the dishwasher and pop your linen into the washing machine with a mild detergent and a cycle set to 30 gentle and voila! In this weather your linen will dry overnight and will be ready for the next round of entertaining! Leave the vacuum until tomorrow...
Dena Diaz
LinenBarn team
