Host A Winter Dinner Party in Cape Town

Winter in Cape Town gives you the perfect opportunity to host an intimate, cosy dinner party. Whether you're celebrating a special event, or simply the season, creating a beautiful tablescape is key to setting the mood and ensuring your guests feel welcome and warm. Here's how you can design an elegant, inviting winter tablescape for your next dinner party.

Set the scene

The foundation of your stunning tablescape begins with the basics: your table, chairs, and linens. Choose a tablecloth or table runner that complements your winter theme. Linen is a classic choice for a farmhouse or cottage style, and its natural wrinkles add a relaxed, informal touch. Opt for neutral tones like white, cream, or soft grey to create a clean slate that makes  other design elements stand out.

Create a centrepiece

Your centrepiece is the focal point of your table setting. For a winter dinner party, consider using natural elements that reflect the season. Bring a little of the outdoors, indoors! Eucalyptus branches are an excellent choice, as they are evergreen, aromatic, and easy to find. Arrange the branches along the centre of your table to create a lush, green table runner. Add some pine cones, small ornaments, or berries, to infuse some texture and add a unique twist to your centrepiece. Of course, as South Africans, we've always got candles on hand in case of loadshedding, so don't forget those! Candles add warmth to your table setting, and even if they're mismatched, they will be magical. Choose candle holders of varying heights to create visual interest and place them strategically among the greenery. The flickering candlelight will enhance the cosy atmosphere and make your dinner party feel more intimate. Dim your room lights to keep the candles as central light sources for the evening. 

Your tableware

Choosing the right tableware and accessories for your winter dinner party is important. If you've invested heavily into your design and decor elements, opt for classic white or cream plates, which provide a versatile backdrop for your culinary creations. Pair them with elegant silverware and glassware to elevate the dining experience. Add a touch of luxury with gold or silver accents to make your table setting feel more festive. Pull out your family heirloom napkin rings and accessories to imbue a beautiful sense of occasion into your dinner party. 

Luxurious seating

Ensure that your guests are comfortable by providing plush seating options. Add cushions or throws to your dining chairs to make your seating area more inviting and keep your guests warm. Choose fabrics that compliment your colour scheme and add to the atmosphere. 

Now all there's left to think of is what to cook, serve, and celebrate! Enjoy your Cape Town dinner party and don't forget to pair your meal with the perfect local wine.