We are firm believers that dining rooms are a place for far more than eating. As we enjoy company, share meals, and make memories, the space evolves for gatherings of any kind. This year, we finally got to shoot the McGee & Co. winter catalogue in our very own home, and the dining room is one of the areas we're most excited about as the holidays begin!

With entertaining season upon us, we've been thinking about how to best prepare for all that comes with holiday gatherings. Although we're eager to fill our spaces with friends and loved ones, this time of year can get stressful, especially if you're the host.

In light of Thanksgiving coming quickly, we put our heads together to collect the team’s top tips for making events more beautiful and less of a hassle.

Scroll through to see highlights from the McGee dining room and read our entertaining tips!

“Take time to make a playlist to set the tone for the gathering. Music has a way of helping people relax and feel comfortable. Spotify has a lot of great playlists if you need some help putting one together.” - Jen Paul, Stylist

Make gatherings less stressful by getting people involved in the kitchen. The kitchen is generally the main gathering space and so many wonderful conversations can be had by getting your guests involved. Plus, it helps to break the ice! - Jessica Mecham, fulfillment claims specialist.

Remember that friends and family are gathering at your home because they love you and want to spend time creating memories with YOU. So go easy on yourself if you haven't dusted your baseboards in a few months or your pie isn't made from scratch. - Britt Parrott, Assistant Buyer

Light a candle or two! Not only will it make your home smell amazing, but it helps amp up the cozy factor so your guests feel more relaxed. - Ann Bishop, customer experience 

“Add fresh cedar to your faux garland the day or 2 before your gathering. It will give your faux garland a fuller, fresher look and smells like heaven!” -Julia Marino, Costa Mesa store manager

shop our favorite entertaining accessories:

Thank you to our sponsors at The Shade Store for our beautiful window treatments!

about our chairs:

From the slight tapering of the legs to the woven paper cord seats, we designed our Eloise Woven Counter Stool and Dining Chair with keen attention to detail in mind. Inspired by Danish design, it's simple silhouette brings a light and airy feeling to your kitchen while added textural elements create character.

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