Hosting can be an art form, especially during the holidays when guests range from picky eaters and friends with food sensitivities to wild card cousins and new neighbors. With expert advice from Hemma Homewares Owner and Stylist, Elizabeth Abstin, you can be prepared for anything and do it all with style. Her charming, Swedish-inspired shop in Downtown Bentonville - The Swedish term "hemma" translates to "at home" in English - features everything you need from fresh florals and seasonal stoneware to captivating scents and elevated guest room comforts.
Incorporate Natural Elements
“For a stunning holiday tablescape, I love to incorporate natural elements like acorns, sprigs of rosemary, or magnolia leaves—it brings a cozy fall vibe to the table without much effort,” Abstain recommends. “A perfect pre-holiday walk could include foraging for these elements around your neighborhood and then laying them out on your table.” Flowers from Mount Olive Farms, Medium Satin White Vase from Alicja Ceramics, $120
Prep A Cocktail/Mocktail
For the meal, she says the secret to hosting with ease is to make a batch cocktail (or mocktail) ahead of time. “That way, your guests have something festive to sip on, and you can focus on getting the food just right.” Sophie Lou Jacobsen Opaque Ripple Cup Set (2) $60 The Floral Society 12" Taper Candles (2) $18, North Palm Large Candlestick Holders $60, $34 and $38
Practical & Playful Gifts
“When it comes to gifts,” Abstain says, “I love to think about what will make my host's life easier—and a touch more fun!” She recommends gifting something they can use right away, like serving utensils or artisanal preserves for a charcuterie board. Minot Roomy & Linen Spray $36, Josephine's Feast Wild Blueberry Preserves $14, Sourcery Single-Origin Cinnamon $12, Elana Gabrielle 100% Cotton Pear Tea Towel $28, Beechwood Honey Dipper $12
Quality Creature Comforts
With refreshments and conversation flowing, holiday festivities can easily run into the wee hours of the night. When accommodating an impromptu houseguest, creature comforts like cozy linens, soothing room spray, and quality toiletries will have them feeling welcome through to morning coffee. Bronte Moon 100% Merino Wool Blanket $150, Amuse La Bouche Ochre Candy Stripe Pillow $125