Kelly Wearstler’s Pro Advice for Your Next *Intimate* Holiday Soiree

Kelly Wearstler is the King Midas of the interiors world. Everything she touches turns to gold, both figuratively and oftentimes literally—the woman knows her way around a metallic finish. Her spaces are wrought with statement marble accents, innovative tongue-in-cheek silhouettes, and a mixture of textures, prints, and finishes that would likely be considered too much if anyone but Wearstler selected them. Basically, we trust her creative eye wholeheartedly.

As we approach an unprecedented holiday season, we’re calling in all the help we can find. Enter: Wearstler, founder and principal of her eponymous design studio, who is sharing her expertise regarding everything from the process behind her beautiful tablescape to her go-to playlist to being a hostess under this year’s circumstances. And in said times, little things like an elevated cocktail or a luxurious tablecloth can add some much-needed allure to a night in. According to Wearstler, a hostess’s job is “to create a memorable experience by constructing an environment where guests feel fully immersed,” and that she does so well. So, whether you are hosting a soiree for a few close friends or even if it’s just you and your significant other, Wearstler has got you covered with all of the best tips—aesthetic to emotional.

Do you like to theme your entire evening?

“Having a theme makes it feel more festive and translates to a better design narrative. It’s about evoking a mood and telling a story that will leave a lasting impression.”

How do you like to arrange color schemes? Tonal? Clashing prints?

“I try to reinvent the traditional color palette for the holidays by looking at colors like oxblood, sage, and persimmon combined with a thoughtful use of materiality and spirited, soulful silhouettes that all work together to form a harmonious dialogue of raw and refined.”

What is the value of curating a tablescape or simply putting a little extra effort into a dinner or holiday party?

“Guests definitely notice when you’ve gone the extra mile to create a personalized experience for them. Each element is thoughtfully considered when curating a tablescape, from the festive holiday drink I’m serving to the type of glass it will be served in.”

Is there anything you do to get creative (or even save $$$), like use twigs from the yard or utilize objects in your current repertoire?

“Floral arrangements and greenery are a great way to bring life, color, and scent inside. I’ll go on long walks to forage flowers and curate something extra special myself. You’re never limited to a floral arrangement in a vase. I love going to the farmers’ market to source an array of seasonal fruits and vegetables like persimmon, pears, cranberries, and crabapples to arrange across the table.”

Anything you’re invoking this year under the current strange circumstances that you haven’t done before?

“I love bringing a lot of people together for the holidays; however, we will be hosting smaller, intimate gatherings this year. With fewer guests, I’m making it extra special by leaving fun little treats next to the bed in the guest rooms.”

Do you compensate in your designs or plans for gatherings with fewer guests?

“Fewer guests at holiday gatherings means less people at the table, which creates more space to experiment with floral arrangements and decoration.”

Any entertaining fail-safes you constantly revert back to, like a certain cocktail recipe or a go-to color scheme?

“While I love exploring different and surprising cocktail recipes, my favorite is champagne with rosemary and pomegranate, garnished with white-chocolate-covered mint leaves. It’s festive and delicious.”

How important is lighting to you?

“Lighting is everything. It sets the mood and enhances the environment. Dimmer switches and candlelight can set the right tone for an intimate dinner party. When the lighting is sexy, everyone looks good and, in turn, feels good.”

Do you cook too much, or tread cautiously?

“I always cook too much. I love cooking and taking risks in the kitchen. I’ve been using T Cooking a lot lately, which is the New York Times’ digital source for recipes—there are so many incredible meal ideas for any occasion!”

Buffet style, or single servings?

“I always opt for something that feels communal. Buffet and family style are relaxed and simple.”

Ask your guests for help, or do it all yourself?

“Having help in the kitchen enhances the experience. I love the process of testing different flavor profiles with family and friends while learning something new!”

How much do you do ahead of time versus day of?

“Smart preparation ensures smooth execution the day of your holiday gathering. I typically begin prepping three days in advance, which involves curating a seasonal menu with recipes from T Cooking. You can save recipes and create an ingredients list, which makes the grocery haul quick and super easy.”

Are you a perfectionist, or do you like to go with the flow?

“I am definitely a perfectionist. I always pay close attention to every little detail.”

Any song or playlist recommendations?

“For the holidays, I prefer contemporary and classic jazz over traditional holiday music. Some of my favorites are John Coltrane, Duke Ellington, and Kamasi Washington.”

Top photo: Joyce Park

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