The Basics of a Better Holiday Gathering with Jenni Kayne
Caitlin Chapman
Expecting guests? In anticipation of a busy holiday season, we went to Caitlin Chapman—lifestyle blogger, expert hostess, and unofficial ambassador of California’s Napa Valley—for a bit of well-edited inspiration. From menu to décor—plus the perfect outfit for entertaining—her approach can best be described as effortless, and today she’s sharing all the details. Read on, bookmark, and be sure to reference before your next gathering.
Q: From home décor to the outfits you’re styling, how would you describe your fall-to-winter aesthetic?
A: Both at home and in my wardrobe, as the weather turns cooler, I love to incorporate fabrics such as cashmere, mohair and velvet in warm tones. It adds a richness and coziness to my usual neutral space and clothing basics.
Q: Whether with a seasonal dish, centerpiece, or place setting—what are your favorite ways to style a tabletop?
A: I am guided by what is in season at the farmer’s market. I like natural elements, nothing too contrived or perfect—foliage, flowers that are currently blooming, and whatever seasonal produce that catches my eye such as quince, persimmons, pears, and walnuts.
"For the table I like to start with the linens and then layer in my Pacific Dinner Plates, Bistro Vintage Finish Cutlery, and beeswax candles in vintage silver candleholders."
– CAITLIN CHAPMAN
It is important to me to have a warm and inviting atmosphere with small details like candles being lit, a good playlist, and greeting guests with a special cocktail to make everyone feel welcome. A fire in the fireplace adds the ultimate ambiance and is where everyone seems to gather.
I am passionate about making my own pasta so that is what I am often serving. My current favorite is a shape called Garganelli which I make with a slow-simmering bolognese sauce. I always serve a seasonal salad of some sort.
For these cooler months, I like to incorporate chicories such as my favorite variety, the beautiful variegated Castelfranco with pear and fennel and a vinaigrette made with aged sherry vinegar, honey and olive oil. I also make a classic roast chicken with lemon and thyme and serve it with mashed potatoes and roasted carrots. At the end of the day, everyone really wants something comforting and familiar.