We Got Our Hands on Kelly Wearstler’s Holiday Dinner Party Manual
It’s applicable year-round, too.
Published Dec 15, 2023 1:02 AM
We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.
As the matriarch of modern design, Kelly Wearstler has something we all want: incredible personal style at home. And while she often works with household names (Gwen Stefani, Elton John, and Ben Stiller come to mind), we have some happy news for you: Wearstler’s new collections with Belgian design brand Serax bring you one step closer to getting a piece of the designer on your table.
Split into two groups—Dune and Zuma—the collections consist of dinnerware, cutlery, glassware, and accessories that will instantly become a core part of your holiday entertaining strategy. Dune features a rich, neutral palette, while Zuma adds some graphic texture to the mix (think: windowpane checks in varying subtle hues).
We connected with the designer to ask about her approach to entertaining. In her own words, she shares her go-to tips for creating memorable gatherings.
My must-have welcome drink: Champagne is my go-to and always festive. During the holidays, I love to add pomegranate, citrus, or rosemary buds as a decorative garnish.
My entertaining philosophy: Each party I host is uniquely crafted to tell its own distinct story. I like to throw a good party and always aim to provide a multisensory experience that leaves a lasting impression. Consider the five senses and how you can bring an element of surprise to each—there should always be a unique scented candle around and unexpected decor for the tablescape. Think about how you can turn the menu on its head—even done so in the slightest way can make a big impact.
My go-to party recipe: I have an amazing guacamole recipe that calls for oregano. It’s a go-to for more laid-back parties and always a crowd-pleaser.
The ultimate party must-have: The most important entertaining essential is a unique tableware set that speaks to your own personal style. I’m always changing out the decor elements to experiment, but I do like drama. I think about the tablescape like a sculpture and play with height, scale, and texture—it makes any dinner party feel like a special experience.
My two party vibes: It has been a dream of mine for some time to create a tableware collection, and I wanted to create two families that served different needs. Zuma is more eclectic; it can be mixed and matched with different colors to convey your personal take on it. Dune is sleek and more tactile, which I know chefs love.
