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Scottish Sun
18-06-2025
- 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
18-06-2025
- 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.
The Sun
18-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- The 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. 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 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.
Daily Mirror
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
How to throw the perfect dinner party this summer - according to an expert
Hosting expert Matilda Bea has shared her secrets to throwing the perfect dinner party - and it's all about the little details The traditional three-course dinner party is falling out of favour, with party hosts now choosing grazing boards, DIY desserts, and bespoke beverages to make their summer gatherings stand out. Some are even going above and beyond to make sure their setups are Instagram-worthy. The poll of 1,000 adults found a staggering eight in ten feel the pressure to make their parties stand out, whether that is through visually stunning dishes, creative decorations, or unique non-alcoholic concoctions. It revealed that 11% of hosts will spend over eight hours - longer than a typical workday - planning their social events to make sure they are perfect. To help you level up your hosting this summer, Matilda Bea, renowned for her knack for creative hosting, has partnered with Cawston Press to share her top tips for sprucing up summer dinner parties, picnics, and BBQs. "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," she commented. "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." And while 31% are content to order their food in to save on the hassle of planning a meal, over half see cooking as an essential part of the experience. Interestingly, text invites are the new norm, with a whopping 73% of party planners swapping paper invitations for SMS invites. However, over half of hosts now put sustainability at the heart of their event organising, with one in 10 fully committed to eco-friendly products that let their guests enjoy the party guilt-free. Steve Kearns, Managing Director at Cawston Press, which commissioned the study to mark the launch of its new Sparkling Can Multipacks commented: "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-scene 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 & 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. INTERACTIVE 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.
The Sun
10-05-2025
- Health
- The Sun
From shots to protein bar – we test products using superfood beetroot
YOU can't beat beetroot – as research shows it could benefit your body and brain. It can even help you run faster because beets are rich in nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide, a compound that helps relax blood vessels, improving blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles. And it's packed with more antioxidants than tomato, carrot, orange and pineapple juice. Today, I test three beet boosters. DAILY SHOT PLENISH Beet Balance Shots are a daily dose of beetroot, apple (74 per cent), ginger, lemon juice, with the added benefit of vitamin C for glowing skin plus B6 and folic acid. Best of all, they taste amazing. Each 60ml bottle has just 26 calories and 100 per cent of your reference intake of B6, which is great for regulating hormones. There is no added sugar. I would prefer if it was more beetroot and less apple, but I love these. I am sure they give me energy before a run. or currently £1.50 each with a Tesco Clubcard. My 60-year-old mom looks like she's in her 30s - she gave me her DIY skin spray recipe, it'll take years off your face VERSATILE JUICE IT looks just like red wine when you pour it into a glass, but Cawston Press Brilliant Beetroot tastes much earthier than the shot. That's because it is 90 per cent beetroot juice and just 9.9 per cent apple juice, with a little citric acid and vitamin C added. It doesn't have that off-putting aroma which some vegetable juices have, and it is only 39 calories per 100ml, with eight per cent sugar. This is also a really versatile product – you could easily add it to soups, casseroles, shakes or pancakes for an extra vitamin hit. Plus, there is the added bonus of this juice being a long life product, so you can keep it stashed away in the store cupboard before you open it. 1-litre, on offer for £2.65 with a Clubcard at Tesco. PROTEIN BAR BODYME Beetroot Berry Vegan Protein Bar contains protein powder blend (pea protein, sprouted brown rice protein, hemp protein) with cashews, coconut nectar, dates, goji berries, beetroot raspberry and coconut oil. And all of them are organic. There is not loads of beetroot in here, but this is a great snack bar. Each 60g bar includes 16g of plant protein and is packed with nutrients, vitamins and minerals. No added sugar or sweeteners in here. There is 9.5g of fat, but that comes from nuts and coconut oil. I found these were a great pick-me-up to help beat my usual mid-afternoon energy slump – without the jittery crash that comes after a coffee hit. £2.90 per bar from
