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Scottish Sun
4 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Scottish Sun
Three-course dinner parties are falling out of fashion with Brit hosts turning to alternatives
Plus the best gifts to bring to a dinner party FEAST ON THAT Three-course dinner parties are falling out of fashion with Brit hosts turning to alternatives Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) 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. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 Grazing boards are becoming a popular alternative to the three-course dinner party Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep 3 Matilda Bea loves using personalised touches to make guests feel special Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep 3 Cawston Press has launched its new sparkling can multipacks Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep 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 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.'
The Irish Sun
4 days ago
- Lifestyle
- The Irish Sun
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. Advertisement 3 Grazing boards are becoming a popular alternative to the three-course dinner party Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep 3 Matilda Bea loves using personalised touches to make guests feel special Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep 3 Cawston Press has launched its new sparkling can multipacks Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep A poll of 1,000 adults who've hosted such an event found 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. Advertisement Read more News 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. Advertisement Most read in The Sun And more than a tenth (11 per cent) will spend upwards of eight hours – longer than a working day – planning their 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 Advertisement 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 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. Advertisement '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.
Scottish Sun
25-05-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Britain's favourite car games revealed according to survey – is yours on the list?
Keep reading for the full ranking below CAR BLIMEY Britain's favourite car games revealed according to survey – is yours on the list? Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A POLL has revealed the most popular 'car games' among Britons, with I-spy coming out on top. I-Spy, 'First one to see' and Yellow Car are among the nation's most popular 'car games', according to research. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 Research found I-spy was the most popular car game Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep 3 Yellow Car was Britain's fourth favourite car game according to the poll Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep A poll of 2,000 adults found 88 per cent will indulge in a time-killing challenge when on a road trip. Spotting car brands and various license plates also proved popular. Other games to feature in the top 20 include the Alphabet Game, when you have to think of a word in a certain category beginning with each letter and the classic Rock Paper Scissors. Name That Tune, Would You Rather and even Truth or Dare are also popular. It comes after Londoners playing 'Yellow Car' would have found themselves racking up the points, after images captured five new Renault 5 E-Tech Electric vehicles buzzing around the capital's most famous landmarks. The fleet were all designed in the French carmaker's iconic yellow pop colourway, making them stand out from the crowd. The swarm of five in-sync cars drove past London sights including The Mall and past Big Ben. A spokesperson from the automotive brand, which also commissioned the research, said: "The nation will be taking to the roads this Bank Holiday weekend and I'm sure many will be playing at least one of these classic car games. 'While I-Spy might still be the most popular, Yellow Car is one that many will be familiar with. 'Trying to spot a brightly coloured car while on the road can keep adults and children alike entertained and can help make any car journey go that little bit quicker. New Renault 4 is no longer a cheap, simple no frills runabout - it's now a funky family crossover and a capital B bargain 'So, having launched Renault 5 with the option of vibrant, fun colours, we wanted to play a real-life version of the Yellow Car game on the streets of London, so anyone driving past would have had a bumper load of cars to shout about.' The study also revealed that for 67 per cent of those who play car games, the point doing so is simply to pass time and stave off boredom, but 43 per cent rely on them to lighten the mood. And 16 per cent turn to them to reduce screen time or random scrolling on their phones. It also emerged 63 per cent of adults claimed car games make them feel nostalgic for the car trips of their childhood. UK car journeys were the most popular time to break out a game (53 per cent), followed by when going a day trip (41 per cent) and visiting friends and family (32 per cent). But 21 per cent of adults also play them when driving with friends and 17 per cent do so on the exciting journey to the airport. And nearly one in 10 (eight per cent) of the parents polled, via OnePoll, turn to them to keep kids entertained on the school run. MOST POPULAR CAR GAMES I-spy First One to See... Car Brand Spotting Yellow Car License Plate Game Alphabet Game Rock, Paper, Scissors Who Am I? 20 Questions Memory Game Spot the Animal Name that Tune Would you Rather Truth or Dare Word Association Travel Treasure Hunt / Bingo Two Truths and a Lie Hum the Tune Story Builder Guess the Movie Quote
The Irish Sun
25-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
Britain's favourite car games revealed according to survey – is yours on the list?
A POLL has revealed the most popular 'car games' among Britons, with I-spy coming out on top. I-Spy, 'First one to see' and Yellow Car are among the nation's most popular 'car games', according to research. 3 Research found I-spy was the most popular car game Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep 3 Yellow Car was Britain's fourth favourite car game according to the poll Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep A poll of 2,000 adults found 88 per cent will indulge in a time-killing challenge when on a road trip. Spotting car brands and various license plates also proved popular. Other games to feature in the top 20 include the Alphabet Game, when you have to think of a word in a certain category beginning with each letter and the classic Rock Paper Scissors. Name That Tune, Would You Rather and even Truth or Dare are also popular. Read more Motors It comes after Londoners playing The fleet were all designed in the French carmaker's iconic yellow pop colourway, making them stand out from the crowd. The swarm of five in-sync cars drove past London sights including The Mall and past Big Ben. A spokesperson from the automotive brand, which also commissioned the research, said: "The nation will be taking to the roads this Bank Holiday weekend and I'm sure many will be playing at least one of these classic car games. Most read in Motors 'While I-Spy might still be the most popular, Yellow Car is one that many will be familiar with. 'Trying to spot a brightly coloured car while on the road can keep adults and children alike entertained and can help make any car journey go that little bit quicker. New Renault 4 is no longer a cheap, simple no frills runabout - it's now a funky family crossover and a capital B bargain 'So, having launched The study also revealed that for 67 per cent of those who play car games, the point doing so is simply to pass time and stave off boredom, but 43 per cent rely on them to lighten the mood. And 16 per cent turn to them to It also emerged 63 per cent of adults claimed car games make them feel nostalgic for the UK car journeys were the most popular time to break out a game (53 per cent), followed by when going a day trip (41 per cent) and visiting friends and family (32 per cent). But 21 per cent of adults also play them when driving with friends and 17 per cent do so on the exciting journey to the airport. And nearly one in 10 (eight per cent) of the parents polled, via OnePoll, turn to them to keep kids entertained on the school run. MOST POPULAR CAR GAMES I-spy First One to See... Car Brand Spotting Yellow Car License Plate Game Alphabet Game Rock, Paper, Scissors Who Am I? 20 Questions Memory Game Spot the Animal Name that Tune Would you Rather Truth or Dare Word Association Travel Treasure Hunt / Bingo Two Truths and a Lie Hum the Tune Story Builder Guess the Movie Quote 3 The new Renault 5 is available in a range of vibrant colours Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep
The Irish Sun
21-05-2025
- Sport
- The Irish Sun
Tottenham trolled by Domino's with massive billboard outside stadium mocking trophy drought ahead of Man Utd final clash
DOMINO'S PIZZA has unveiled a live billboard outside the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium cheekily highlighting the club's prolonged silverware drought. Advertisement 5 Domino's has unveiled a live billboard outside the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep 5 It displays a figure showing the number of pizzas delivered in the UK and Ireland since Spurs last won a trophy Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep 5 Tottenham last won a trophy in 2008 in the League Cup final against Chelsea Credit: AFP They go into the match in desparate need of a win having endured a terrible season which could see them finish as low as 17th in the Premier League table. To showcase just how long it's been since the Lilywhites have won a trophy, Domino's has unveiled a digital billboard outside their home ground. It displays a huge figure playfully showing the number of pizzas delivered in the UK and Ireland since 2008 - the club's last trophy win. It totals well over a billion pizzas (more than 1,569,226,205) – enough pizza to cover the stadium 25,873 times. Advertisement READ MORE IN FOOTBALL The billboard was unveiled as today marks 17 years, two months and twenty-four days - or 6,279 days - since they last lifted a major prize. Tottenham's last trophy came following a 2-1 win over A spokesperson for Domino's said: "We're not taking sides, but if Spurs deliver in Bilbao, we'll happily reset the counter to zero. 'We always deliver– now it's their turn to do the same in the final. Advertisement Most read in Europa League Exclusive CASINO SPECIAL - BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS 'And of course, all eyes are on Ange… no pressure, mate." The nearest Tottenham have come to winning a major trophy in recent years was the 2021 League Cup final - when they lost out to Man Utd & Spurs fans get Europa League final party started in Basque city Bilbao after mad dash on planes & 35hr ferries 5 Advertisement Man Utd vs Spurs - Europa League final: And they'll be doubly hoping for success tonight, as a trophy in the cabinet would allow them to justifiably claim they've had a 'better' season than rivals The Gunners fought until the late stages of the Premier League title race as well as the Champions League, before being eliminated in the semi-finals by But Advertisement To make matters worse, former talisman Harry Kane – Spurs' most successful striker of the modern era – just He was part of the 5 MAN UTD VS TOTTENHAM - EUROPA LEAGUE FINAL LIVE Advertisement Latest betting odds, offers and predictions
