Holiday Entertaining with Monelle Totah
Written by Robert Leleux | Photography by Hudson Grace
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Monelle Totah, co-founder of lifestyle brand Hudson Grace, gives Lonny readers tips for holiday hosting.
MAKE A WARM FIRST IMPRESSION
“A warm home is like a warm welcome. It’s about entertaining effortlessly with classic pieces, well-loved favorites, and heirloom treasures—and there’s nothing more gratifying to me than bringing friends and family together around the table.”
LIGHTING IS IMPORTANT
“We know a big part of creating the right mood is how you light the space around you. I am not a fan of overhead lighting. Candlelight creates a beautiful ambiance, and is always my first choice.”
MAINTAIN THE ELEMENT OF SURPRISE
“I love to put fresh blooms in unexpected vessels.”
GET DINNER PARTY READY
“We design and sell what we love and use daily. Even for a casual Sunday supper, I light the candles, bring out my vintage hotel silver, and fill up large white serving bowls and platters. I love to serve family-style, and as always...use my linen napkins.”
PREPARE YOUR GUEST ROOM FOR THE HOLIDAYS
“I love crisp white sheets and plenty of good pillows. There’s nothing like the gift of fresh bedding to welcome your guests this holiday season. Guests also love a cashmere or wool throw—and easy access to extra pillows and blankets.”
Add a TOUCH OF FRESH GREENERY
“Fresh florals and greenery complete a room and make your home inviting. And the natural scent of greens puts everyone in a holiday mood. I also love sending live plants as a gift that keeps on giving.”
MAKE IT FESTIVE
“Our ornaments bring personality to any room, and make the perfect dinner party favor. My Gold Gnome is always a welcomed guest, season after season, and lives proudly on my mantel with fresh greenery.”
USE THE GOOD CHINA AND SILVER
“I love mixing old and new. Everything from hotel silver flatware, which is worn and used with the perfect patina, to vintage linens. I am so partial to these oversized French napkins, the monograms are almost a design element.”
EVERY HOUR CAN BE HAPPY HOUR
“There’s nothing more fun than an impromptu happy hour. It’s never stressful if you’re prepared. And remember, it doesn’t have to be perfect! My go-to glass for wine is the Everyday Wine Glass, and my favorite cocktail is a vodka soda served in our Handmade Tortoise Glass. I love to pull out the red and green Henri Glasses during this time of year to get everyone in a festive spirit.”
The CLeanup Can Be Fun
“I never mind doing the dishes. It's a time to unwind and reflect on a special evening, and our HG Dish Soap makes it easy to enjoy. Your whole kitchen will smell delicious, and the Sweet Basil Candle will help end the night beautifully.”
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