5 WAYS TO SET THE MOOD

Thanks to the events of this year, we’ve all become a little more intimately acquainted with the inside of our homes, which can make it difficult to see your space in a celebratory light. Try these ideas to help get you in the party spirit

1 REORGANISE YOUR FURNITURE

This will do wonders to revitalise your space. If your dining table is normally tucked against a wall or into a corner, bring it into the centre of the room just for the night and dress it beautifully. Or if your evening’s main event is a quiz, arrange your seating to allow different teams to sit together.

2 SWITCH UP YOUR LIGHTING

Think back to a great party or an evening spent in your favourite restaurant, and recall how lighting plays a huge part in creating atmosphere. Turn the lights down low, and consider repositioning table lamps from elsewhere in the house to get the mood just right. Candlelight is perfect for that warm, festive glow, and strings of fairy lights can be dotted around for added sparkle.

3 DON’T HOLD BACK

Even though there may not be so many of you this year, take the same pleasure as you usually would in decking out your home with bunting and festive decorations. Fresh flowers always help to make a space feel extra-special too.

4 DON’T FORGET THE MUSIC

If you’re struggling to decide which tunes to play at your party, music-streaming platforms such as Spotify offer a wealth of playlists to suit every mood. Whether you’re planning a 1980s-themed disco or want to recreate a French fine dining experience, a good soundtrack is crucial.

5 ADD SEASONAL SCENTS

A festive home fragrance will immediately conjure up a Christmassy mood. Choose something warming and comforting. Classic high street scents for this time of year include Yankee Candle’s Christmas Collection, starting from £1.99 for a votive, or The White Company’s Winter Collection, from £8 for a fragrance oil.