Hosting Season Essentials With Event Expert Mel Wood
This is the comeback year for all things celebratory! We are making up for those special holidays and get-togethers that we were robbed of during the pandemic. Since we’re a little rusty with host-etiquette, we decided to get some expert advice on how to be the ‘Hostess with the Mostest’ for the upcoming season.
Mel Wood, W Events & Decor
Last week, we were lucky to sit down with Mel Wood from W Events & Decor to ask what we need to do to absolutely sleigh hosting season this year. Being the owner of a thriving event planning and decorating business, Mel sure knows how to throw an unforgettable celebration! If you’re planning on hosting any dinner parties this year, you’re going to want to take notes. Here’s our full interview with Mel sharing her expert tips on how to host the best event or dinner party.
W Events & Decor
What is trending this year for tabletop decor?
Mel: This was the year for silver making its comeback in the event world. Although we still love a gold moment, it was nice to see the traditional silver in flatware again on tablescapes. When it comes to the 2022 holiday season, I think we will see this traditional trend really take off. Think “Silver Bells” - I will be tapping into my childhood memories of my grandmother's sterling silver sets and dishes this holiday season!
Holiday Entertaining Collection, Crate and Barrel
What’s something simple you can do that takes your tabletop setting up a notch and shows your guests you went the extra mile?
Mel: There is something to be said about stationery! When your guests see something as simple as a name tag, it really makes them feel special and adds that extra layer of detail and customization.
I also love an arrangement. Whether it be fresh floral; some holiday greenery, or a creative spin on filling a vase with something like ornaments or fruit, it really elevates the table!
W Events & Decor
What are your top recommendations on where to buy beautiful tabletop decor?
Mel: I love Crate & Barrel for statement pieces such as serving dishes and large bowls that can double as decor, and they always have a beautiful selection for holiday decor! I love Target when travelling and designing for clients in the US, and my forever favourite for all things tabletop decor is Casa De Perrin!
What are your top 3 tips that you can share with us for hosting season this year?
Mel:
Personalize!! Whether it is with having menus, nametags or incorporating a holiday drink for your guest. Make it memorable and something that speaks to your style and holiday traditions.
Let's be kids again! I'm going to be tapping into all the beautiful nostalgic decor from my childhood. From classic, beautiful red bows, to silver touches and antique pieces like ornaments and serving dishes. I want to sit at a table that feels like Christmas when I was a child with the fabulous feeling of new traditions and decor we love now!
Like most creatives, I find my inspiration from the 3 Ps! People, Places & the Past! We all know history repeats itself, and I'm always looking to see how I can elevate a once-loved decor piece or design. I find a lot of my friends and family inspire me with their own unique styles or even something about them. For example. My younger brother is a big outdoorsman. I was looking to introduce some new pieces to my collection, and I wanted to honour him. I found these gorgeous wooden charger plates that instantly made me think of him and his rustic side. They come in 3 different finishes - “Natural Wood, Light Wash, and Dark Washed wood” - I was so excited I had to name it after him as well, “Taylor Wooden Collection.”
W Events & Decor
Can you offer any advice on where to start with designing a tablescape for those who aren’t so creative?
Mel: I feel like I'm always inspired by the beauty of travel or even sometimes going on a walk. I will see a garden or specific colours that will trigger creativity for a tablescape!
I think the best way to create any tablescape is to start with a theme or colour scheme and build from there. A beautiful linen or napkin can go a long way as well. I always encourage some height to allow your guest's eyes to wander and explore the table - candles are always a great way to do this!
Lastly, have fun with it. There is no right or wrong when it comes to style and creativity!
W Events & Decor
How can people get in touch with you to rent table settings for their next event or dinner party?
The best way to inquire is through our website! You can also see view our online catalogue on our website and get inspiration from past events we have helped host.
Visit www.weventsanddecor.com for all your event decor needs.
W Events & Decor is an event rental and decorating business servicing the GTA and most of Southwestern Ontario. Mel does the creative directing for tablescape designs and is known for her incredible attention to detail when it comes to celebrating any special occasion. If you have questions for Mel about hosting your next event, send her a message on the W Events & Decor instagram page or send them an email weventsanddecor@gmail.com
Mel and her Great Dane, Pongo. W Events & Decor
