Five Tips for Festive Hosting - Richard Brendon

1. Be prepared, pre-batch your cocktails

With the Large Decanter and Fluted Tumblers.

Nobody wants to spend the evening playing bartender. Get ahead of the game by pre-batching your favourite spirit-led cocktails, whether that’s a Negroni, Old Fashioned or Martini. Decant into a beautiful large decanter, ready for guests to help themselves. Less time mixing, more time mingling.

2. Make your tablescape a talking point

Set the scene with a table that really wows. Think rich autumnal tones, deep burgundies, forest greens and warm browns, finished with thoughtful details such as velvet ribbons, seasonal foliage and, of course, plenty of candlelight. Don’t save your favourite glassware for best. Bring it out, dress the table and let it do the talking.

3. Deck the halls

Featuring the Burgundy Glass

Nothing sets the mood quite like a home dressed for Christmas. Get the tree up, hang the stockings and add a little festive magic to every corner. Whether it’s twinkling lights, fresh greenery or a wreath on the door, create a space that feels warm, welcoming and wonderfully cosy before the first guest even arrives.

4. Welcome guests with a little something

Using our Bone China Dinnerware

First impressions count, and a canapé on arrival is always a brilliant touch. Have a few small bites ready to serve alongside a welcome drink, giving guests something to enjoy as everyone settles in. It’s a simple gesture that makes an evening feel considered from the very beginning.

5. Finish on a cosy note

With the Jancis Robinson Universal Original Wine Glass

As the evening winds down, gather everyone by the fire and bring out a bottle of Tawny Port. Rich, warming and wonderfully suited to the season, it’s the perfect final pour. Send your guests home feeling relaxed, well looked after and full of inspiration to host their own Christmas gathering.