If there’s one thing most of us are looking forward to most about the Australian summer, it’s the possibility of (finally) being able to host our friends and family for a sun-filled lunch, that inevitably extends itself into candlelit dinners with endless laughter (and perhaps, just a little bit too much wine). While we might be a little bit out of practice, throwing a memorable bash involves a few key factors—picking the perfect playlist, withstanding—and there’s no one better versed than Alyce Tran, one of the impressive brains behind Australian dinnerware label, In The Roundhouse.
It goes without saying that it’s the personalised, decorative touches that really make a party pop, and Tran has expertly crafted a keen eye for pulling together a celebratory curation of dinnerware trinkets, from the obviously party-ready plates and napkins offered at In The Roundhouse, to floral surrounded cocktails and of course, coming ready with “hilarious conversation.”
Pick A Theme
For Tran, the first step comes with “working out a theme or vibe”, and matching it back to what you have presented on the table. In The Roundhouse makes this pretty simple, courtesy of its themed collections that are made for this exact purpose. Pair their mix-and-match Italian Words collection alongside a Tuscan-inspired feast, or stick to bold colours with the label’s Fashion Faces collection.
Add A Cocktail, Of Course
Coming prepared with your favourite cocktail is a dinner party must, and you don’t have to get too complicated, as Tran says, who usually opts for “pre-mixed margaritas” and takeaway from her favourite local restaurants.
Bright Florals Are A Must
A big lover of adding “bright colours and bright florals” to a table, Tran says that summer meals post-lockdown will be all about creating that fun flair with colour.
Get Personal
While great flowers and a theme make up the groundwork for a picture-perfect table setting, Tran knows that it's the personal touches that really make it shine. Add a handwritten place card to the seating, and finish it off with a “colourful collection of candles throughout.”
