DEBORAH BIBBY

Interior design guru, author and content specialist

A unforgettable dinner party? It was a short boat ride for the first dinner party at a friend’s justrenovated house. Craig from The Raconteur makes the most beautiful natural candles and his partner, Leigh, placed all these divine gently coloured glass candlesticks randomly down the centre of the timber table. It was the simplicity of the setting that captured me.

What are most important elements for a good party? A pretty signature cocktail that packs a punch. Music that makes you want to move. A strong co ee table for when the cocktails kick in. A beautifully styled table that sets the tone and makes guests feel super-special. And it goes without saying, at least one delicious killer dish!

Name one thing your mum always did when throwing a party My mum always had the most amazing canapes on arrival. She especially loved oysters – sometimes Kilpatrick but mostly piled on crushed ice and chilled champers ready to go – simple and delicious. You felt a party energy the minute you stepped foot in the door and Frank was usually blasting on the record player.

A cookbook that inspires you? My Mum’s Cookbook, which was actually written by my mum, Roisin Bibby, in 1993. It’s still my treasured go-to and all the grandkids use it, too.

One song to start your dinner party... It’s a toss-up between Moda Bo (featuring Cesaria Evora) by Lura, something by Fleetwood Mac or anything by Tash Sultana. I can’t stop at one!