How to Create the Perfect Atmosphere for Hosting
Hosting is becoming increasingly popular as the way people socialise is changing, with many people choosing to stay in with their friends rather than go out. This could be down to many factors, such as the rising costs of eating out, and Gen Z in general preferring the comfort of their own home, rather than at big events. This has stirred a rise in hosting trends, such as watch parties for popular TV series and themed dinner parties. Many people are gathering at each other’s houses to watch the concluding season of Stranger Things for example, with Google searches for ‘Stranger Things watch party’ up +5000%, the same way they sat around the television in summer to watch Belly choose Connie in the TSITP.
Comfort is key
The number one rule of hosting is making sure that your guests are comfortable. When you’re hosting, your guests’ comfort should always be at the forefront of your mind, as this could make or break your guests’ experience. If you are hosting a watch party, set out cosy blankets and throws for guests to snuggle under if the room gets chilly. If you don’t have enough sofa space for your guests, don’t worry, you can create an inviting floor space with an assortment of fun, inviting pillows for them to lounge on. Pair the floor set-up with a soft and cosy rug to really set the tone.
If you’re planning a themed gathering, don’t be afraid to fully embrace the concept by matching your decor with the overall vibe.
Hosting a Christmas evening? Lean into a festive palette of deep reds, golds and greens.
If you’re hosting a Traitors watch party in January to commemorate the highly-anticipated new season, dark and moody shades of black, grey and red will really set the tone of the evening.
Steer clear of the ‘big light’!
Lighting sets the mood for any dinner party. If the big light is too bright, guests will feel like they can’t relax. But if you’re hosting a watch party, you need to find the right balance between ambience and enough light to be able to see the TV.
Try layering your lighting to create a cosy, harmonious atmosphere. A floor lamp with a warm bulb to offer the most light, paired with either warm wall sconces or a table lamp to offer a comforting glow. Table candles or centre pieces wrapped in fairy lights will set the tone for a relaxed and intimate dinner.
Create a tablescape your guests won’t forget
No dinner or watch party is complete without a good tablescape. If there’s one thing your guests are guaranteed to remember from your dinner or watch party, it’s the tablescape. From the table decor, colour palette to the food you serve, every small detail plays a part in whether the night feels truly special or easily forgotten.
Make sure your table settings reflect the theme of the evening. For example, if you’re hosting a night of glamour, let the table reflect that. Think soft and textured linens, coordinated plates and cutlery, and elegant long candlesticks. Want to go the extra mile? Add personalised place settings for a thoughtful finishing touch.
Written by Claudia Kampmann, Europe Brand Manager at innovative interiors brand Ruggable