Latest news with #MatildaBea
Daily Mirror
29-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
How to throw the ultimate summer BBQ or picnic with kids at home - without breaking the bank
Entertaining guru Matilda Bea - who has more than 500,000 followers across Instagram and TikTok - shares her top 10 tips and reveals how to keep kids happy and parents sane all summer long With the school holidays in full swing and costs soaring, many families are skipping pricey outings and choosing to host garden BBQs and local park picnics instead. And according to entertaining expert Matilda Bea, that doesn't mean sacrificing fun or breaking the bank. According to a new survey, parents spend more than £100 extra per week over the summer holidays. But for those placing their children in clubs or camps, this rises to a staggering £385 per week, according to the Utility Warehouse survey that quizzed 1,000 parents of five to 15-year-old children. But having fun with the kids doesn't have to cost a fortune. Here, Matilda shares her top tips with the Mirror for summer BBQs and picnics that look and feel fabulous without breaking the bank. 1. Set the scene Matilda says lighting and tableware make all the difference. "String up fairy lights, use solar lanterns or pop candles in hurricane jars. The glow as the sun goes down transforms the space." Her favourite budget-friendly finds is the £20 Habitat Large Hurricane with Wooden Legs and the £15 Solar Filament Bulb Lantern to "create an instant good vibe". 2. Get inspired by TikTok BBQ season has gone viral once again on TikTok as Brits hope for another heatwave comeback this summer. "Whether you're taking full reign of the grill or curating the most epic spread of sides, it's all about teamwork, fun, and delicious food," Matilda says. "Sharing plates are a staple for making your BBQ or picnic look more curated - and it requires minimal effort." 3. Bring the indoors out Indoor/outdoor living can be a lifesaver for parents this summer, with bringing toys outside helping to keep the kids entertained while you are hosting. Layer up tablecloths, bring out proper cutlery and colourful dishes. "I hosted a garden party recently with 12 friends - tablecloths laid widthways and clashing napkins made it feel so joyful." Don't be afraid of colour. "Bold tones and mixed glassware add so much life to the table." 4. Pick a theme Not everything has to match, but a visual thread helps. "Lemons and blue for an Amalfi vibe, terracotta and wildflowers for Spanish summer." And for those wanting a money saving trick, Matilda suggests naming it "BYOB - bring your own buns!" 5. Plan for the British weather "Umbrellas, parasols, or even a chic throw-over pergola mean your party won't be a washout," she says. "And honestly, a little drizzle never hurt anyone when the spritzes are flowing and the playlists on point." 6. Create a Signature Station Matilda loves a station setup - drinks bars, condiments corners, even DIY sandwich or taco tables. And for the kids, these can be lifesavers if you set up a station just for them filled with their favourite snacks and drinks. "A drinks cart with elderflower spritzes or mocktails is such a moment. Or go full retro with a cordial and soda bar," she adds. "You can easily adapt this into a DIY ice cream bar, s'mores tray, or even a condiment corner with Sainsbury's Spicy Truffle Aioli - my favourite!" 7. Get ahead on prep 'Do what you can the night before - marinate skewers, chop salads, chill drinks. Then you're free to enjoy the day.' For shortcuts on a budget, Matilda swears by Sainsbury's summer range: 'The Coffee & Mascarpone Tart is a no-brainer for dessert.' 8. Seating is everything Low picnic rugs, poufs and fold-up chairs create a casual but stylish setup. "If you're heading to a local park, plenty of brands now offer beautiful foldable chairs and patterned rugs - they instantly elevate the setup and make it feel more curated." 9. Tableware Tableware doesn't have to cost a fortune and can be as simple as picking up some cheap, colourful tablecloths to throw over your old patio set. "A mix of vintage glasses or bold napkins can really bring the table to life," Matilda says. "Think clashing in the best way." 10. Tie it into summer sports With the Lionesses picking up a big win this weekend, it's the perfect time to plan ahead of more summer sports this season. "From F1 Sundays to the Euros or the Olympics, sport can be a great backdrop to your gathering," Matilda says. "Having it playing in the background gives everyone a natural talking point and keeps the energy upbeat, even during the mid-afternoon lull." Bonus tips for budget picnicking with the kids Freeze juice cartons for ice-cold drinks on the go Bring bubble wands or chalk for easy, mess-free park fun Use reusable plates and napkins to save money and waste Keep meals simple and sharable: pasta salads, wraps, cut fruit, and crisps always go down well Have kids help with the setup - it gives them a sense of pride and keeps them busy
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.
