AUTUMN glow

Decorate your table with foraged finds

“This is my favourite time of year for foraging, and the perfect moment to decorate your table with nature’s bounty. I love using apples to make tea light holders, and decorating table runners with leaves and dried seed pods and berries,” says Liz.

Create a centrepiece

“Every party table needs a centrepiece, and one of my top tips for a real showstopping impact is to hollow out a pumpkin and fill it with seasonal flowers. Dahlias and chrysanthemums look particularly sensational, creating a centerpiece that is bound to be a talking point for weeks to come.”

Otherwise, silk flowers make a long-term investment, and can always be styled with thistles and warm russet autumn leaves.

Design a warming seasonal menu

“I enjoy serving guests a menu inspired by autumn shades, and given the abundance of red, orange and yellow vegetables at this time of year, this is easily achieved.

“Many of my favourite autumn recipes can be found at lizearlewellbeing.com, including roasted pumpkin soup, lamb tagine with butternut squash, and caramelised apple and walnut lattice pie.

“All seasonal, local fare that’s easy to prepare in advance, so I can spend more time chatting to guests.”

Laura Ashley’s autumnal dining ranges include a

Pumpkin Serving Dish, £31.50.

With a little imagination sitting down to eat doesn’t have to be complicated.

Light up the darkness

“As night-time falls, whether you’re eating inside or out, tin-can lanterns can make the perfect backdrop to any feast.

“With pretty ornamental details, they are especially atmospheric in a darkened room and I love the way the light dances around as the candles flicker, like a

campfire.”

And relax...

This glorious mustard yellow armchair from Alexander and James, £595, looks ready to sink into is the perfect piece to finish off your autumnal look.