When I first met Laura Kensington, an interior designer with a keen eye for detail, I had little idea just how much thought and effort went into entertaining guests at home. Laura has been in the industry for over two decades, transforming spaces from mundane to marvellous, and her insights on hosting were both enlightening and inspiring.
I sat down with Laura in her beautifully designed living room, which she often uses as a backdrop for her own social gatherings. A carved oak table, its surface smooth and cool to the touch, was the centrepiece of the room. It was complemented by a honed Norway marble fireplace that added an understated elegance. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, setting the perfect scene for our conversation about the art of home entertaining.
“Entertaining at home is more than just hosting a dinner party,” Laura began, her voice carrying the kind of enthusiasm that comes from genuine passion. “It’s about creating an experience for your guests, making them feel welcome and comfortable.”
The Importance of Ambiance
Laura emphasised that the first step to successful home entertaining is setting the right ambiance. “Lighting plays a crucial role,” she explained. “I always recommend a mix of natural and artificial lighting. Candles, for instance, can add a soft, inviting glow, while dimmable lights allow you to adjust the brightness according to the mood of the evening.”
She also highlighted the importance of music. “A carefully curated playlist can elevate the entire experience. Choose tracks that match the vibe you’re aiming for—whether it’s a relaxed evening or a more lively gathering.”
The Centrepiece: Furniture with Character
As we continued our conversation, Laura directed my attention to the oak table in the centre of the room. “This table is more than just a piece of furniture,” she said, her hand gently resting on its surface. “It’s a conversation starter. The oak has a rich history, and the craftsmanship speaks volumes about its quality.”
When asked about how she selected such unique pieces, Laura shared, “I believe in investing in furniture that has character. The carved oak and the honed Norway marble are not just materials; they are elements that bring a story into your home. When your guests sit around a table like this, they feel like they’re part of something special.”
Culinary Delights
No entertaining experience is complete without food and drink, and Laura had plenty of advice in this area as well. “I always prepare a menu that caters to a variety of tastes and dietary restrictions. It’s important to ask your guests ahead of time if they have any preferences or allergies.”
She continued, “Presentation is key. Even the simplest dishes can look exquisite when served on beautiful platters. I often use serving dishes that complement the décor of the room, creating a cohesive look.”
Personal Touches
One of the standout points Laura made was the importance of personal touches. “I like to add elements that reflect my personality and the personalities of my guests. For example, I might place small, handwritten name cards at each seat or include a favourite family recipe in the menu.”
She smiled as she recounted a recent gathering. “At my last dinner party, I incorporated a few vintage pieces that belonged to my grandmother. It sparked so many wonderful conversations and made the evening feel even more special.”
Continuous Learning
Laura is always on the lookout for new ideas and trends. “The world of interior design and entertaining is constantly evolving. I subscribe to various magazines and attend workshops to stay updated. And, of course, I’m always eager to hear about new collections and get interiors advice.”
She leaned forward, as if sharing a secret. “One of the best parts of my job is discovering unique pieces and incorporating them into my work. It’s thrilling to be the first to hear about exclusive promotions and limited-edition items. It keeps the process exciting and fresh.”
Final Thoughts
As our conversation drew to a close, Laura left me with a piece of advice that encapsulated her approach to entertaining. “Always remember that the goal is to make your guests feel at home. Whether it’s through thoughtful décor, delicious food, or personal touches, it’s the attention to detail that makes all the difference.”
Walking away from Laura’s beautifully curated space, I felt inspired to rethink my own approach to home entertaining. Her insights were not just about design; they were about creating memories and experiences that guests would cherish long after they had left.
By George Richardson
Be the first to comment