How to host the ultimate Easter celebration

Ring in a season of al fresco revels with a beautifully laid table for your guests to gather and graze. When it comes to dressing yours, “be natural – don’t overload it with lots of things,” says Isabel. Instead, contrasting materials can add texture. “I like to use different wine glasses and then mix with another material like wood for depth.” This doesn’t mean buying all new either; “just mixing a few good things you already have with fresh flowers is enough,” assures Isabel.

Turn to nature to add a unique burst of colour to your table, with fresh blooms plucked straight from the garden. “I love flowers – I always use them in my sets,” says Isabel. “My favourites are tulips and English roses…they come in such beautiful colours.” Their large buds serve a real statement when dotted in dainty bud vases (we recommend one vase for every two place settings). But if you want something more elaborate, you could always try cascading blooms for a show-stopping centrepiece or guest entrance.

On balmy afternoons, welcome your guests with a light and refreshing tipple. “I love an English elderflower drink,” says Isabel. Though you’ll find it readily available to buy, it’s easy to craft at home. “My friend loves to make it. She collects a huge amount of the flower and then puts it in a large glass dispenser” along with a syrup (made from boiling sugar in water with lemon juice) “for a few days to macerate.” Once ready, decant a small amount into a highball glass, along with plenty of ice and something fizzy. Lastly, stir and garnish with a thin curl of cucumber.

Make light work of feeding guests by choosing a handful of simple yet flavourful dishes that can be prepared in advance. Perfect for warmer days, “one of my favourite recipes for a garden party is a Sevillian orange salad,” says Isabel. “It’s a recipe from my grandma. She used to make it in the summertime, and I love it.” Simply toss fresh chillies, olives and onion together with olive oil, vinegar and pepper and top with pieces of dried cod. “It’s super simple. Everybody can do it, and it's delicious.”

Embrace the season of joyful dressing with styles that’ll see you celebrate (and host) with effortless ease. Signal new season delight with luxe satin, feminine frills, itsy-bitsy florals and swirling silhouettes. Men can keep it relaxed with casual tailoring in a tonal palette, or play with joyful, varsity styles for an injection of summer’s must-have shades. Just remember to keep a light layer nearby for when daylight dips into dusk…

Savour time spent together by gifting a small treat to remember the occasion. Whether it’s a dried bouquet preserved from your garden, or a dainty trinket laid upon a placemat, a thoughtful keepsake is the perfect way to show appreciation to your guests. Where you can, Isabel advises “buying second-hand things, or use what you already have.” Not only will you be doing best for planet, but you’ll also have the opportunity to get creative with your gifting.

Come spring, the Villages promise to be filled with fashion, food and music – the perfect place to extend celebrations with family and friends. With beautifully-decorated facades, pop-ups from your favourite brands showcasing summer’s It-styles and live entertainment, you can expect a glorious day out together. There’s even a few secluded restaurant terraces to hide away on when you need a moment of quiet…