The Art of Entertaining with Lucy Cuneo

As we approach the full-blown entertaining season, we believe that hosting a fabulous dinner party is like creating a work of art, weaving together the smallest of details and intricacies that can transform and shape the ambiance of an evening. The renowned photographer and creative director extraordinaire, Lucy Cuneo, is someone who knows how to master—and capture—that kind of beautiful, entertaining magic that spans from an intimate dinner party to a full-swing wedding. So we only thought it was natural for Cuneo to share her tips and tricks on how to create an effortlessly beautiful and inviting evening to remember.

When planning a dinner party or any event that you’re entertaining, what is the first thing you focus on or want to emphasize for your guests?

The first thing you want to really focus on is creating that cozy and inviting environment, so think like fresh flowers and fluffed pillows. I love to have a great-smelling candle for the front room/entry, and lots of twinkly votives in the evening. I also keep the menu pretty simple and seasonal but like to put several things on the table. For example, the other night we had salmon, a tomato burrata salad, an arugula avocado salad, potatoes, a crusty baguette, and lots of lovely wine!

How do you like to set the mood of the evening? Do you like to set a theme?

I typically don’t set a theme unless it’s a birthday party or some sort of holiday fun… like a murder mystery party! For our standard entertaining, it’s really about a beautifully set table - crisp linens, polished silver, fun plates, and glassware. I keep flowers low on the table and always have a mix of tapers and votives. Tapers are more flattering as they cast the light downward rather than lighting your chin (my mother taught me this!)

Do you have any affordable/at-home tips for foolproof entertaining?

Trader Joe’s flowers and wine are fabulous. And honestly, if you nail the vibe and dessert, everybody forgets the rest! My first big dinner party in Charleston was a smoke-filled, fire alarm fiasco and we giggled our way through! If you’re relaxed, everyone else will follow suit. You set the tone :)

Do you have any tips on how to enjoy the evening and not stress?

Yes! I love getting guests involved in last-minute touches. Typically we congregate in the kitchen and I throw some appetizers out on the counter, light some votives and then put people in charge of an easy task (“chop this” or “keep an eye on that”) really something that is manageable and allows them to feel like they’re contributing but still able to focus on the conversation. I find that little addition makes your company feel at ease and included rather than feeling like they’re watching you slave away!