1. Get inspiration from the guest list.
“Depending on who’s coming, cater to that. Family with children is one kind of vibe, or if it’s a more casual group versus a more professional group…I think it’s fun to mix people together who don’t know each other.”

2. Attention to detail is everything.
“I think I got this from my grandmother. She used to create special menus, or leave little gifts on guests’ seats. Add a sense of festivity when you can, whether it’s a glass of champagne or a Christmas cookie for dessert. The holidays are about splurging.”

3. Make people feel at home.
“I always use a lot of red during the holidays—there’s something really festive and warm about it. Red berries, red peonies.”

4. Mix it up.
“I don’t have a formula for a table. I love having different flowers, plates, glasses—I don’t like to do the same thing every time. And I love an element of surprise, like candies or cookies in the tablescape.”

5. Go for comfort.
“Serve something that puts a smile on people’s faces, like chicken hash, or filet and creamed spinach. Really cozy holiday food. And for dessert, there’s nothing more delicious than a chocolate ganache cake with peppermint ice cream.”

6. Take a seat.
“I think there’s nothing better than a sit-down dinner. There’s something really nice about being able to sit and eat and think ahead of who is next to whom.”