Low flowers, a self-serve drinks tray and seating in clusters: how to set the house so guests mingle on their own.
Hosting starts long before guests arrive. Clear every surface to a hotel standard, set out one low floral arrangement, and light something with a scent ten minutes before the doorbell rings.
Arrange seating in small clusters so conversation splits naturally, and build a drinks tray that serves itself: glasses, ice, two bottles and a bowl of citrus. Background music low, lamps on, overheads off.
The secret is flow: coats by the door, drinks in one spot, food in another, so guests circulate instead of bunching in the kitchen.
