We're endlessly inspired by creatives who know how to bring people together through beautiful, thoughtful design. So, when we sat down with Melanie, the founder of What a Host, we couldn’t wait to dive into her world of stunning tablescapes and effortless hosting.
Known for transforming everyday gatherings into unforgettable moments, Melanie’s eye for detail and love of meaningful connection shine through everything she creates. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, celebrating a milestone, or simply dressing the table for a cosy Sunday lunch, her tips and insights will help you do it with heart and style.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and how What a Host began?
I’m Melanie Kalfaian, founder of What a Host Home, where we specialise in designing and manufacturing modern, handcrafted home accessories.
Before this chapter of my life, I spent years working in communications and events back in Argentina, where I ran my own agency and collaborated with amazing global brands like MAC, Hilton, Givenchy, Marriott Hotels, and Warner Bros. It was a fast-paced world that taught me so much about design, storytelling and creating experiences.
In 2020, I moved to the UK and found myself at a turning point. I had a fresh start in front of me and I knew I wanted to build something more personal, something that reflected not just my creative background but also my passion for hosting and creating meaningful spaces. That’s when What a Host Home began to take shape.
The truth is, I just didn’t know where to start. I still remember sitting on my sofa, playing with this idea in my head, dreaming about a brand, without the slightest clue about how to build an e-commerce website or how product manufacturing even worked. But I started anyway. Slowly, with curiosity and persistence. What began with 10 trial products back in 2020 has now grown into a catalogue of over 250 SKUs.
That moment taught me something I hold close to this day: it’s never too late to start, and you don’t need to have everything figured out (Because truthfully, you never will!). What a Host Home was born from that leap and today, we continue to grow with the same sense of purpose that inspired it from day one.
What inspired you to start What a Host, and how has the journey evolved since you launched?
The heart of this journey traces all the way back to my childhood in Argentina. Sundays were sacred in our home: imagine a long table, every family member arriving, and the smell of lasagna so rich it made you want to take a bite out of the air.
We’d gather around a beautifully styled table that my grandmother had carefully prepared. Candles glowing, perfectly folded napkins, fresh flowers… It was a true ritual. And that ritual left a mark on me. I still remember the pride I felt when my grandma handed me the plates and asked me to bring them to the table.
Over the years, what started as a personal love for hosting and creating meaningful moments evolved into a calling. I began styling tables for friends, then for events, and slowly realised there was a real gap in the market; a lack of high-quality, handcrafted table décor that felt both intentional and timeless. That’s when What a Host Home was born: a brand rooted in tradition, yet designed for modern living.
The inspiration behind it is deeply emotional. It’s about recreating that sense of belonging, celebration, and care I felt around my grandmother’s table. I want others to feel that same warmth and meaning when they gather in their own homes.
You’re known for your stunning tablescapes. Where do you find your inspiration?
I find inspiration from many sources, but a big part of it comes from observing how people come together and connect. I’m fascinated by the way a well-set table can elevate the experience of sharing a meal.
I also look at the world around me; whether it’s the simplicity of a street corner, the clean lines of modern design, or the textures I encounter while traveling. I like to combine these observations with classic design elements, creating pieces that feel both timeless and functional for everyday use. For me, it’s about creating something that enhances those moments of connection.
Can you walk us through your creative process when styling a table for a client or event?
From concept to completion, how do you bring your vision to life? It always begins with a conversation. I want to understand the emotion behind the event or occasion. Is it a big birthday dinner, an intimate anniversary, or a grand wedding?
Once I understand the feeling we want to evoke, I move into concept development: sketching ideas, selecting materials, and building a colour palette. I think about texture, height, and how the eye moves across the table. Then I bring in the pieces: handcrafted accessories, layered linens, lighting. It’s about storytelling through objects and creating a visual and emotional experience that guests won’t forget. I like to think of every tablescape as a scene from a movie.
How do you tailor your tablescapes for different occasions such as weddings, birthdays, or intimate dinners?
Tailoring a tablescape always starts with understanding the occasion and the mood the host wants to create. For weddings, I usually go for more refined and romantic aesthetics with coordinated palettes, elevated materials like brass or marble, and cohesive details across the table.
For birthdays, I like to bring more personality and playfulness into the design, whether it's through bolder colours, mix-and-match elements, or personalised touches that reflect the guest of honour. When it comes to intimate dinners, the focus shifts to warmth and connection.
I often work with layered textures, soft lighting, and natural elements to make the setting feel welcoming but still elevated. The biggest shift between events is the level of formality and scale, but the attention to detail is always the same. It's about crafting a unique experience that fits both the moment and the people you're creating it for.
Do you have a favourite tablescape you’ve styled so far? What made it special or stand out to you?
One of my favourite tablescapes I’ve styled was for a Women’s Day celebration in collaboration with Buy Women Built and Manchester City Football Club. It was such a meaningful event for me, not just because it was an opportunity to showcase our designs, but because it celebrated women in a way that felt deeply personal and significant.
Creating an environment that honoured women’s achievements and contributions, while also aligning with the values of both brands, made it extra special. The tablescape was elegant yet empowering, and it felt like a reflection of the strength, creativity, and resilience of women.
For me, this collaboration was a reminder of why I do what I do. It was about more than just styling a table. It was about creating an atmosphere where women could feel valued and celebrated. That experience was definitely a standout moment in my journey.
What are your must-haves for an effortlessly elegant table setting?
Personally, it's all about the guest journey: how they feel when they sit at the table. That’s why I invest in small details that elevate the experience. A well-chosen set of candle holders as a centrepiece instantly creates atmosphere.
Napkin rings are another favourite. Not just decorative, but practical too, as I often use them to hold a name card handwritten for each guest, adding a personal touch. I also play with the placement of cutlery sets to create a sense of rhythm and symmetry, and I always include fresh flowers that complement the colour palette I’ve chosen.
These don’t have to be extravagant, just enough to bring in a natural, vibrant feel. That’s why I always say: the key is in the details. You don’t need multiple sets of plates or an overload of cutlery. You just need to invest smartly in versatile accessories that add the WOW factor and allow you to shape each design with intention.
What are your go-to materials or suppliers when creating a tablescape?
When creating a tablescape and designing a new collection, I focus on materials that are durable and sustainable, such as brass, stainless steel, aluminium, and ecowood. These materials allow us to create elegant designs while ensuring long-lasting quality.
We are committed to working exclusively with artisans who use traditional methods and locally sourced materials, helping to preserve craftsmanship while minimising our environmental impact.
One of the key aspects of our sustainability efforts is our partnership with Greenspark and PlasticBank, an organisation dedicated to cleaning our oceans from plastic waste. PlasticBank has removed over 16 million kilograms of plastic from our oceans, and through our collaboration, we help contribute to this effort. For every order placed with us, we rescue two plastic bottles from the ocean, supporting PlasticBank’s mission to not only reduce plastic pollution but also address poverty by providing economic opportunities to local communities.
This partnership embodies our belief that small steps can have a big impact. I’m always on the lookout for small brands and artisans who align with these values, as they allow us to bring unique products to the market while making a positive impact on both people and the planet.
How do you balance beauty with practicality especially when guests need to dine, pass food, and chat across the table?
Balancing beauty with practicality is essential. There’s no point in creating a stunning tablescape if it gets in the way of a great dinner. I always start by thinking about flow: guests need space to pass dishes, make eye contact, and feel comfortable. That means choosing a centrepiece that’s impactful but not obstructive, like low candle holders or a runner with small accents instead of tall arrangements.
I also keep the setting grounded: elegant, yes, but not over styled. For example, I’ll use décor that can easily be moved if needed. Every piece should serve a purpose, whether it’s visual or functional. The goal is always to elevate the experience without overwhelming it. Beauty should never come at the expense of comfort.
What’s your top advice for someone wanting to create a beautiful table at home, but doesn’t know where to start?
My top advice is: start simple and focus on the details. You don’t need a large number of dinnerware to create a beautiful table. Invest in high-quality key pieces you can reuse across different occasions, like a good set of candle holders, natural fibre napkins, versatile napkin rings, or a table runner.
Think about a colour palette you love and that fits your home, and build around it. Mix textures: linen, wood, metal, or fresh flowers to add warmth and personality. And most importantly, consider who will be sitting at your table. Adding a personal touch, like a handwritten name card, can completely transform the experience.
Creating a table is like telling a story. There are no strict rules, just intention. Start with what you have, enjoy the process, and let your style evolve with each gathering.
What are some common mistakes people make when setting a table, and how can they avoid them?
- One common mistake is overcrowding the table. It’s easy to get carried away with decor, but guests need space to eat, pass food, and feel comfortable. Keep the centrepiece low and not too wide, so it doesn’t block conversation or movement.
- Mismatched proportions, like oversized napkin rings with delicate plates can also throw off the visual balance. Try to keep materials and scales cohesive.
- Finally, people often forget the guest experience. A beautiful table is great, but what truly stands out are the thoughtful details, like a printed menu that reflects the mood of the evening. These small touches make a big difference.
Do you have any quick styling tips for hosts who want to impress without spending a fortune or hours prepping?
Yes! styling a beautiful table doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. My top tip is to start with a neutral base, like a simple tablecloth or runner you can use again and again. Then, layer in textures: think linen napkins, a few natural elements like fresh herbs or seasonal fruit, and a small cluster of candles for instant ambiance.
Use what you already have, but in creative ways: fold napkins differently, tie them with a ribbon or some twine, and repurpose small items as decor. Even placing flowers in drinking glasses can become a charming centrepiece.
Remember: less is more. Focus on one or two elements that elevate the experience without cluttering the table. Also, don't forget about music! It’s such an important part of setting the vibe. Create a playlist or find a YouTube video with background music to set the mood for your gathering. It really makes everything feel much more special.
What trends are you seeing in tablescaping or event styling for 2025?
For 2025, I’m seeing some exciting shifts in tablescaping and event styling. Here are some key trends to look out for:
- Colour Palettes: Earthy neutrals and deep tones are really taking centre stage. Shades like oxblood, mocha, and deep plum bring warmth and sophistication to a table, creating a rich and elegant atmosphere. On the other hand, there’s also a rise in bold and unexpected colour pairings, like burnt orange with pale blue or red accents. These vibrant combinations add energy and a striking element to tablescapes.
- Materials and Textures: We’re moving towards more layered and textured looks. Combining fabrics like lace runners over rich tablecloths creates visual depth and adds a tactile element to the setting. I’m also noticing a shift toward artisanal tableware, with handcrafted ceramics and unique glassware making their way to the table. These pieces add personality and authenticity to the setting. Natural materials like wood are also making a comeback, adding a grounded, earthy feel that pairs beautifully with other textures.
- Themes and Styles: Nature-inspired decor is huge, with botanical elements, dried florals, and stone or wood accents bringing a fresh, organic vibe to events. Finally, interactive and immersive elements are becoming more popular, such as changing centerpieces or backdrops that guests can engage with. This creates a more dynamic and memorable experience.
These trends align perfectly with my vision for creating meaningful moments at the table, where every detail contributes to the overall experience. I’m looking forward to incorporating more of these elements into future collections and collaborations.
You clearly have an eye for detail. How do you ensure each tablescape feels unique, even when reusing key pieces?
For me, the magic lies in how you play with the details. Even when reusing key pieces, I always look for ways to refresh and reinvent the look by focusing on small but impactful elements.
One of my favourite ways to ensure each tablescape feels unique is by changing the colour palette. Even if you’re using the same tableware or glassware, a fresh combination of colours; whether it’s through napkins, flowers, or table runners can completely transform the vibe of a setting.
I also experiment with textures: layering different fabrics, such as linen napkins with a velvet table runner, or using unique textures in the centrepieces like a mix of metals, wood, and stone. The placement of elements is another key factor. The arrangement of cutlery, glasses, and centrepieces can change the flow of a table, making each experience feel new.
I love to add personal touches, like handwritten name cards or printed menus, which make a setting feel more intimate and tailored. Ultimately, it's about paying attention to the overall story you want to tell with each tablescape.
By playing with layers, textures, colours, and personal details, you can take the same foundational pieces and create a completely new and unforgettable dining experience every time.
What’s next for What a Host?
We’re currently expanding our B2B partnerships, especially with interior designers and concept stores across the UK and Europe. We’re also excited to be working on a new collection for 2026, inspired by architectural elements from my recent travels to Japan and Kenya, featuring more mixed materials and bolder forms.
On top of that, we have a new marble and stone collection launching this July, and we’re collaborating with a special guest on a capsule collection. This year, I also want to be more actively involved in social causes that I feel personally connected to.
So far, we’ve contributed to two charity auctions by donating products to help raise funds: one for the North London Hospice, which provides palliative and end-of-life care to people with life-limiting illnesses, and the other for Horatio’s Garden, a charity that creates and nurtures beautiful, accessible gardens in NHS spinal injury centres to support the wellbeing of patients and their families.
Beyond that, I’m passionate about continuing our sustainability journey: working closely with PlasticBank and Greenspark to offset our footprint and give back in meaningful ways.
We loved getting to know the story behind What a Host and Melanie’s artistic approach to setting the scene for memorable occasions. Her passion for creating beauty through simplicity and intention reminds us that hosting isn’t about perfection it’s about making people feel special.
Whether you're an experienced entertainer or just beginning your hosting journey, we hope Melanie’s words leave you feeling inspired to craft your own table moments. For more of her beautiful work and products, be sure to explore What a Host collection which can also be found here at Mash + Mint and follow along on Instagram for daily inspiration.
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Shop the What a Host collection now at Mash + Mint
