Home improvement
Trust Aerin Lauder (Estée Lauder heir and the mastermind behind lifestyle label Aerin) to make bowls of potato chips chic. We ask her the secrets to entertaining well
Aerin Lauder can even make chips look chic. She reveals her entertaining secrets.
WHAT IS YOUR PHILOSOPHY WHEN ENTERTAINING?
Entertaining should feel effortless so you, as host, can also enjoy the party. My grandmother Estée taught me the secret to entertaining is to make guests feel comfortable and welcome. She used to serve gourmet potato chips in beautiful bowls, which I still do today and guests love. She also loved sending her guests home with a small gift. I try to incorporate a little something for each guest into the place setting. I also like a great bar cart – it brings the party to whatever room you’re entertaining in.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR ENTERTAINING ESSENTIALS?
I find candles to be very uplifting, [especially] when entertaining. They can easily transform the feeling of a space. I would say when pairing a candle scent with a room, decide what kind of feeling or theme you’re trying to convey. We recently launched a line of destination-inspired candles that transport me to some of my most cherished vacations – my favourite from the line is Uzes Tuberose.
WHAT ATMOSPHERE DO YOU LIKE TO CREATE AT HOME?
I like to surround myself with memories from my past and childhood. My home is full of frames with beautiful pictures that remind me of some of the most important moments in my life. One of my favourite gifts to give is a frame with a beautiful picture. It’s a personal and special touch.
WHAT DOES YOUR UNIFORM CONSIST OF?
I like classic, modern and feminine labels like Michael Kors, Oscar De La Renta and Stella Mccartney. White silk blouses go with everything, and I love ballet flats or a lightweight cashmere scarf... I’ve recently discovered designer Johanna Ortiz, who’s amazing. And I have always loved denim – whether it’s my favourite Frame jeans or a chambray shirt.
WHAT’S THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE BEEN GIVEN?
My family taught me the importance of passion and hard work. There’s nothing I love more than hearing my uncle and father talk about the business and all the incredible stories about Estée. I’ve been so lucky to have incredible family role models; I hope to do the same for my children. The best advice I’ve ever received was from Estée: “Whatever you do, do it well.”