Hosting Made Easy: Expert Tips for Creating a Festive Atmosphere at Home

The festive season is a time to gather with loved ones, share joyful moments, and celebrate in the comfort of your home. Whether you’re hosting an intimate family dinner or a lively party with friends, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere can make all the difference. Experts from across the home decor industry offer their top tips for transforming your space into a cozy, vibrant haven that embraces the festive spirit.

Creating a Tranquil and Stylish Home

Hemant Khurana, Managing Director of Mortars and Homes Business at Saint-Gobain India, emphasizes the importance of a peaceful environment, especially in homes where noise can disrupt the mood. “Hosting guests during the festive season is all about creating a cozy and welcoming environment. With celebrations in full swing, it’s essential to maintain a vibrant yet peaceful atmosphere,” he says. One way to achieve this is by installing sound-reducing uPVC windows. These windows, according to Khurana, reduce up to 50% of outside noise, making them perfect for homes with pets, elderly family members, or anyone looking to enjoy uninterrupted conversations and laughter.

For those seeking to add a touch of elegance to their festive décor, Khurana also recommends Saint-Gobain’s LED mirrors, available in sophisticated designs such as Boho and Dawn. “These mirrors not only enhance your festive décor but also add a touch of sophistication to your home year-round. With adjustable lighting for both day and evening, they are perfect for grooming before welcoming guests or for creating beautifully lit corners in your living space,” he adds. These elements help create a warm, inviting space where memories can be made, ensuring your home shines during the festive season.

Infusing Your Home with Festive Charm

Shailly Mandiwal, Country Home Furnishing Direction Leader at IKEA India, encourages hosts to embrace the vibrant spirit of Indian festivals through thoughtful home design. “India, with its diverse myriad of festivals, offers a joyous and vibrant celebration of unity, where cherished moments with loved ones are at the heart of the experience,” she explains. According to Mandiwal, this season is the perfect opportunity to refresh your home, whether through large-scale changes or small makeovers.

IKEA’s newly launched limited edition AROMATISK collection is designed to do just that. “This year’s collection showcases stunning lotus motifs in vibrant rani pinks and soft creamy greens. From cushions to serving bowls, each item infuses warmth and a festive spirit into any home,” says Mandiwal. These colorful textiles, including cushions and throws, bring a lively energy to your living space, while decorative table runners add a festive touch to dining areas.

Lighting, too, plays a key role in setting the right mood. Mandiwal advises incorporating string lights, lanterns, and candles to transform any room into a cozy haven. “The magic of lighting cannot be overstated,” she notes. Whether placed along windows or used as part of a centerpiece, lighting creates an inviting glow that enhances the festive atmosphere.

The Dining Table as the Heart of Festive Gatherings

Mandiwal also highlights the importance of the dining table, which often serves as the centerpiece of holiday celebrations. “The dining table is where friends and family come together to enjoy delicious meals and create lasting memories,” she says. To set a stunning table, she recommends using neutral dinnerware paired with bold napkins, reflective glassware, and small potted plants or fresh flowers for a refreshing touch.

Involving family and friends in the decorating process can add another layer of joy to the occasion. Mandiwal encourages making decorating a family affair, from crafting personalized decorations to adding DIY designs at the entrance to welcome guests. “Hosting should be about savoring the moment rather than stressing over every detail. With the right furniture and thoughtful design choices, anyone can cultivate a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes guests feel at home,” she concludes.

Hosting during the festive season doesn’t need to be a daunting task. By incorporating noise-reducing features, stylish accents, and vibrant textiles, and by focusing on key areas like the dining table, you can create a space where your guests feel comfortable and welcome. As both Khurana and Mandiwal emphasize, the key to a successful celebration lies in thoughtful preparation and the creation of a warm, inviting atmosphere—allowing you to enjoy the festive moments with those who matter most.