Three-course dinner parties are falling out of fashion with Brit hosts turning to alternatives
A SURVEY has found that Brits are moving away from traditional three-course dinner parties in favour of more laid-back alternatives.
The traditional three-course dinner party is falling out of fashion as hosts turn to grazing boards, build-your-own desserts, and carefully curated drinks.
3
3
3
A poll of 1,000 adults who've hosted such an event found grazing boards are used by 27 per cent, while 10 per cent like to include fun 'interactive elements' like build-your-own puddings.
And 10 per cent make a point of using sustainable products so guests can dine with a clear conscience.
While a quarter (27 per cent) ensure their setup is picture-perfect, specifically so it looks good on social media.
As many as 80 per cent feel pressure to make their gatherings stand out, whether through beautifully plated dishes, creative décor, or signature mocktails.
Known for her creative hosting flair, Matilda Bea has teamed up with Cawston Press to share her go-to tips for elevating dinner parties, picnics, and BBQs this summer.
She said: 'I always try to add a personal and playful touch to my gatherings - whether that's through handmade menus, thoughtful place cards, or even personalised cocktails to make guests feel extra special.
'These days, I find that it's about so much more than just the food. It's the atmosphere, the details, and those great conversations around the table that really make a moment catching up with friends and family so memorable.'
The study went on to find 36 per cent of respondents would rather head to a casual gathering, such as one centred around a specific theme like an 80s night.
And more than a tenth (11 per cent) will spend upwards of eight hours – longer than a working day – planning their own soirees.
More than half (55 per cent) consider cooking themselves a key part of the process, but 31 per cent are happy to mix this up with ordering a few bits in.
Ruth Langsford accused of 'rage baiting' as she reveals her VERY odd 'secret ingredient' while prepping famous spag bol
Fewer than one in 10 (eight per cent) will send out a formal invitation, either printed or digital – preferring to simply send a text (73 per cent).
But 42 per cent rarely or never risk trying a new recipe when hosting a dinner party, sticking to the tried and true.
Dinner parties are also getting an eco-boost, with 56 per cent saying sustainability is important to them when hosting one.
And when invited to someone else's event, 77 per cent will bring a bottle of wine to say thanks – while 42 per cent opt for flowers, and 36 per cent a box of chocolates.
While 11 per cent will bring some mixers or soft drinks to help get the party going, according to the OnePoll.com data.
Managing director Steve Kearns at Cawston Press, which commissioned the research to celebrate its new Sparkling Can Multipacks, designed to help hosts elevate their at-home gatherings, said: 'People are putting more thought than ever into their dinner parties.
'Many people - especially those who are younger - rarely eat a meal out without taking a photo, so the mise-en-scène has to be as spot-on as the food on the plate.
'And now, just as importantly, it should reflect the growing desire for more sustainable choices at the table.'
Matilda Bea's tips and tricks for hosting
DIY cocktails and mocktails - I always make sure there's something for everyone. A DIY cocktail station is a favourite of mine. I've even turned my sink into a makeshift bar, filled with ice - it's a fun photo moment and adds to the 'occasion'.
Nibbles station - If food isn't the star of the show, I love setting up a drinks and nibbles station - a grazing table on a coffee table or ottoman works wonders.
Tablescaping - A well-styled tablescape is key for me. I love mixing materials for my tablescape - soft linens, colourful table mats, and ceramic serve ware layered together to create a personal and beautiful dining experience.
Personal touches - Whether it's personalised place names, hand-painted stationery, or bespoke gift bags, thoughtful details add a personal touch and make your guests feel truly special. Handmade menus or personalised gift bags can be budget-friendly, yet instantly set the tone and create a unique, memorable experience
Give your dinner party a theme - a theme adds a whole new layer of fun to the evening. Whether it's centred around a drink of the evening, the cuisine you're serving, or a seasonal touch, a theme helps set the tone and gives your guests something to vibe with. It's the little details that tie everything together
Interaction experiences - A dinner party is the perfect opportunity to get everyone involved. I love creating interactive activities like DIY cocktail bars or pizza-making to keep guests engaged and create an easygoing, fun vibe.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Mail
an hour ago
- Daily Mail
Heather Graham, 55, wows in another busty ensemble after revealing the secret to her youthful looks
Heather Graham was a sight to behold at the Filming Italy festival in Santa Margherita di Pule, Italy on Saturday. The Boogie Nights star, 55, wore a figure-hugging white gown with a plunging neckline that showed off her cleavage. Her long blonde pair was parted slightly off center in long, loose waves. The Hangover actress' makeup featured smoky eyes and sun-kissed cheeks. Heather's skin glowed with youthful exuberance and she recently shared her tips for looking young in her mid-fifties. 'I think what matters most is how you feel inside. Decide that you're hot and enjoy your life,' Heather - who last stunned in a blue co-ord - told Retreat. 'What other people think of you is none of your business. If you feel good about yourself, no one can take that away from you. 'Pursue the things that fill you with joy, and surround yourself with loving people,' Heather said. Graham went on to reveal that she doesn't drink or do drugs and she feels that plays a big part in how she looks at 55. Graham continued, 'I get a lot of sleep. Eating healthy makes me feel good. I like cooking for myself and other people. And I love it when people cook for me. 'Basically, I like eating! Also, I do affirmations. I think they are very powerful. 'I work on strengthening my inner loving parent muscle, so I can be supportive and loving to myself. One of my affirmations is: "This is the best time of my life."' And Heather doesn't just talk the talk, she walks the walk. 'I feel like as I get older, I just care less about things that don't matter,' she told People in April. Heather's skin glowed with youthful exuberance and she recently shared her tips for looking young in her mid-fifties. Seen here June 21, 2025 'Everyone gets upset sometimes, but I think that I'm happier. I've done enough hard work on myself that I feel like I'm a happier person now.' Graham also explained how she gets and keeps her calm, cool, and zen attitude. 'I just enjoy the simple things in life — like sleeping, eating, my friends, things like that. I love meditating.' Her happy place is the ocean and she combines that and yoga to keep her slender frame in shape. 'I like going on yoga retreats because, to be honest, I love just being by the ocean,' she said. 'So, anytime I'm at the ocean, I just feel happier.' And when she's stressed out, she heads outside to absorb nature. 'I like to go out in nature, go to the beach, look at the ocean, go on a hike, go into the mountains, look at the trees," the Chosen Family told the outlet. Over the years, she's shared a few tricks to her age-defying looks, including her 'obsession' with yoga, a sugar-free diet and up to 12 hours of sleep a night. 'I'm obsessed with yoga,' she also told Refinery29 previously. 'For fun, I would go on a yoga retreat and do four hours of yoga a day. Then I do Pilates.' 'What other people think of you is none of your business. If you feel good about yourself, no one can take that away from you,' she said. Seen here June 21, 2025 During that interview, she also insisted that her restrictive diet just makes her 'feel a lot better.' 'I do eat sugar sometimes, but as a broad rule, I try to just eat no sugar basically,' she explained.
The Sun
2 hours ago
- The Sun
Helen Skelton sells off one of her homes she shares with ex husband amid Gethin Jones romance
HELEN Skelton has apparently sold off one of her homes that she shared with ex husband, Richie Myler. This comes as she continues to become close to her BBC Morning Live co-star Gethin Jones. 9 9 9 9 The former Blue Peter face previously announced her split from rugby league ace in April 2022 as she revealed he left the family home. Just four months after Helen gave birth to her third child Elsie, he walked out of their nine-year marriage. The duo turned two adjacent houses into a lavish eight bedroom dream home just months before their relationship came to an end. However, the property was put on the market for £1.8million just weeks after the split. The MailOnline reported that Helen hoped to make £500,000 from the sale. Now, the publication reports that the former couple have divided up their properties once again, amid her new romance. They sold the first home they bought in January 2020 for half a million pounds, despite the fact it was listed at nearly £900,000. It is described as a 'link detached house' with four bedrooms that was given a modern makeover by the pair. This was after the duo moved into the period house, which reported to have been sold, subject to contract. Other features include a modern open-plan kitchen and living room that contain exposed beams and vaulted ceilings. Gethin Jones and Helen Skelton's romance heats up as they're seen at spa The spacious room - which comes with a log burner - has plentiful access to south facing gardens. On the ground floor, other rooms include a snug, a dining room for guests and a bedroom with its own ensuite toilet. The two bedrooms on the first floor provide ample space, as the master suite has its own ensuite bathroom and large dressing area. Outdoors, the property boasts a heated swimming pool as well as an annexe with its own bathroom, which could serve as either a guest house or a 'summer entertainment space' The outlet also reports that the couple still own a second property they bought in 2021 for £635,000. This comes after we reported that the relationship of Helen, 41, relationship with co-star Gethin, 47, continued to heat up in recent weeks as they grew ever closer off screen. The duo were spotted looking loved up as they headed to a country club and spa. He reportedly took his alleged new partner to a wellness venue near his home as he surprised onlookers with their flirty antics. An insider told The Sun: "Gethin and Helen were all over each other. "They are clearly super comfortable with each other and it wasn't just like two friends hanging out." Our mole added: "Helen was really laughing and smiling as they spent time together before heading off in the late afternoon." 9 9 9 9 9
The Sun
2 hours ago
- The Sun
Fashion fans rush to snap up £10 Primark bag that shoppers say is the exact dupe of £1,600 designer equivalent
Roisin Chapman, Lifestyle Reporter Published: Invalid Date, PRIMARK fans are rushing to pick up a new handbag that many are comparing to a high-end buy. The budget-friendly accessory is said to bear a remarkable resemblance to a designer item. Primark, famous for affordable fashion and homeware, recently launched the popular bag. The retailer's Belted Bucket Mini Tote Bag is currently available for just £10. "Sleek and sophisticated, this mini bucket bag is here to revive your accessories edit," the product description read. "The faux leather fabric is practical yet elegant, while the belt detail to either side adds extra style points." This buy features a grab handle and a cross-body strap, for versatile wear. It also has gold-toned hardware, adding a polished touch to the stylish look. "Use it to accessorise all your fave fits and get set to bag plenty of compliments," Primark said. And if you're not already sold, this bag has been compared to high end version, which is currently priced at £1,650 online. The Mini Bucket Louise in smooth calfskin from Celine has a similar look, including a leather-inspired finish, the bucket shape, and the miniature size. Both bags also feature similar gold-tone hardware and two similar handles. Shoppers race to Primark for 'dressy top' that's perfect for a pair of jeans - it's sexy & flattering & in two colours However, the designer bag is of course real leather while Primark's is synthetic. It also features the Celine brand's iconic logo in gold on the front, while Primark's version remains logoless. The Celine description gave more details on the bag, including the lambskin lining, gold finishing, and Triomphe magnetic closure. Primark shoppers could save around £1,640 by opting for the bargain version of this bag. Customers can grab the Primark bag in stores now. You can check availability at your nearest store here. By Clemmie Feildsend, Fabulous Fashion Editor AS someone who's no stranger to grabbing a last-minute outfit from Primark for a night out, it's about time that celebrities started catching on too. For as long as I've been heading out, Primark has been my go-to for those 'I have nothing to wear' moments, rushing in at the last minute to find something perfect. And I'm definitely not alone - on any Friday or Saturday night, you'll find plenty of shoppers doing the same thing, right before closing time. But no matter what, Primark always delivers. Now, Rita Ora is leading the charge, showing that you can snag a designer-worthy look without spending a fortune at high-end stores. While Rita's not rushing in last minute for a red carpet outfit, she's proving you can achieve the same high-impact style for much less. Looking stunning in her tailored suit alongside her mum Vera, Rita fit right in among the other A-listers dripping in Prada, Dior, and Victoria Beckham - if anything, she looked even better than some of the guests at The Fashion Awards. With Myleene Klass and Roxy Horner already jumping on the Primark bandwagon, I'm sure more stars will be following suit soon enough. And this sleek bag isn't the only fashion dupe currently available from Primark. Shoppers have been racing to pick up a Chanel-esque two-piece from the bargain retailer. The chain also launched dupes of a popular dress for £77 less than the high-end version. Plus, Primark shoppers shared their excitement over the "perfect" going out top. 4
