We are thrilled to welcome back writer, designer, entrepreneur, and former model India Hicks to the podcast! As the daughter of legendary British interior designer David Hicks, India grew up surrounded by formal theatrical design, but her 30 years living in the Bahamas have distinctly softened her approach. She joins us to discuss her fourth book, Entertaining with a Side of Chaos, which serves as part memoir and part tablescaping guide.
Embrace the Unexpected: Rather than stressing over a flawless evening, prioritize gathering, putting phones down, and fostering meaningful conversations. India once moved a fully set dining table for 30 people into a breezy lane at the last minute simply to escape the summer heat.
Invest in Folding Furniture: To maintain flexibility in where you host, India highly recommends using inexpensive folding tables and folding bamboo chairs. This allows you to easily move your party to a new location on a whim.
Forage and Improvise: When traditional floral centerpieces aren't an option, look to what you have in abundance. A basketful of tomatoes or a line of reclaimed glass jars acting as bud vases can create a dramatic and beautiful tablescape.
Curate the Conversation: Using assigned seating isn't about stuffy hierarchy; it shows you have thoughtfully considered your guests. It saves everyone the awkwardness of finding a seat and allows the host to pair people who will spark fascinating discussions.
Build the Table Foundation: Start your tablescape with the tablecloth to set the tone. If using an ugly folding table, cut a bolt of plain fabric to the floor to hide the legs, then layer your decorative tablecloth or runner on top.
Mix and Match: Your crockery and glassware do not need to perfectly match. A collection of chipped blue-and-white plates sourced individually from antique stores brings wonderful character to a meal.
Read her new book: Entertaining with a Side of Chaos.
Follow her on Instagram: @indiahicksstyle.
Subscribe to her weekly Substack newsletter.
Shop her table linens collection with Pomegranate.
What is the most chaotic moment you have ever experienced while hosting a dinner party?
Please send in your decorating dilemmas to podcast@ballarddesigns.net so we can help you with your space! Don't forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode.
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