Designer Elle Patille and her husband Mo Vikrant take every opportunity to open their home to friends and family throughout the holiday season. She tells us a few of her go-to entertaining strategies for a memorable soirée.
Divide & Conquer
While Mo does all of the cooking, Elle is an expert at creating a warm, festive atmosphere. Their German shepherd, Albert, likes to help out, too.
Turn Down The Lights & Up The Ambience
“When we’re entertaining, dimmed chandeliers, candles and blazing fireplaces are essential to creating a convivial holiday atmosphere,” says Elle. “My party playlist includes diverse artists such as Sarah Brightman, Portishead and my favorite French electronica band, Air.”
Invite An Eclectic Mix
“A curated guest list allows like-minded yet diverse people to connect. Our distinguished visitors have included Lieutenant-General Roméo Dallaire — we’re a part of the founders’ circle for his charity, Child Soldiers Initiative.”
Host Frequent, Smaller Gatherings
“Unlike a big annual party, more intimate get-togethers allow everyone to enjoy each other’s company and let us, the hosts, spend quality time with guests. Keeping the guest list lean also leads to more memorable conversations and spontaneity.”
Serve A Modern Menu
“A lot of our friends are vegan, so we’ll offer a range of dishes.”
The old general store attached to their Victorian heritage home is where the couple hosts all of their holiday gatherings.
Author: Jeremy Freed with files from Barbara Sgori
Photographer: Robin Stubbert
Source: House & Home December 2018