Main image and tablescape shoot used throughout created by Bash Studios, flowers by Worm.

“I have a couple of tips I live by for hosting. Always fill the table with candles (I like lots of different heights) – everything and everyone looks more glamorous by candlelight and it’s a simple way to create that sense of special occasion and also an easy way to magically transform your dining area. Do as much of the prep in advance as possible, but most especially have the table laid before your guests arrive: there is something very welcoming about arriving at someone’s home and seeing the table all laid up and waiting for you. Then you can keep cooking and do all the finishing touches – like tossing the salad, finishing things off in the oven, mixing drinks and so on – once your guests have arrived.”

Shop SkyeMcAlpine’s Tavola tableware collection here. 

Charlotte De Geyter (left) founded Antwerp-based fashion label Bernadette with her mother Bernadette De Geyter (right), a former fashion buyer at Ralph Lauren. Image: Instagram @bernadetteantwerp.

“It’s our yearly tradition to gather at my mum’s house for Christmas. She dresses up the house with small vases in every nook and corner, filled with freshly picked flowers from her garden. Warm light and candles everywhere are what sets the mood. When the house is ready to host and the food has been prepped, it’s time for us to throw on one of our big dresses and enjoy a glass of champagne next to the fireplace. At the end of the year, it’s important to reminisce and be grateful for all the good things that have happened.”

Shop fashion and lifestyle pieces from Bernadette here. 

Image: Instagram @jessicagarlandblake.

“Entertain on those days inbetween Christmas and New Year. Using up all the food that’s stuffed in the fridge is the best way to have a zero waste Christmas! Get experimental with leftovers, fry the pudding in butter, get the cheeses out and leave on the table for guests to graze on. No need for place settings or three course meals, make it relaxed. It’s dark by 4pm so light some candles, make the table feel cosy and somewhere your guests are happy to sit for hours chatting about New Year plans and re-gifting. Put some mulled wine on the stove for a warming welcome drink, which also adds a gorgeous smell, and you’re set.” www.bash-studios.com. 

“When I am hosting for Christmas, I like to feel as relaxed as possible so I can enjoy the day. I try to get ahead of myself with preparations as much as possible, and decorate the day before guests arrive. I always start off with the table decorations to set the scene. I like to keep decorations simple and fresh. As an ode to my Italian heritage, I love using a traditional Punto Antico linen tablecloth. Then to bring in some colour, I’ll add green-leafed clementines and lemons. Candlelight is key, so there are always plenty of candles dotted around the table – I want the room to be filled with a warm glow.”

Image: Genevieve Lutkin. Shop Bettina Ceramica here.