Cover Vinki Li from Essence of Hosting shares her tips for the perfect tablescape (Photo: courtesy of Li)
Vinki Li from Essence of Hosting shares her tips for the perfect tablescape (Photo: courtesy of Li)
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Interior designer Vinki Li of Essence of Hosting shares her secrets to creating show-stopping festive tablescapes that turn every gathering into an unforgettable occasion
The festive season is upon us, and with it comes the delightful pressure of hosting. Whether you're planning an intimate dinner party or a grand celebration, the table is where the magic happens—quite literally. Enter Vinki Li, the woman who's made an art form out of the dinner table.
A self-employed interior designer with degrees in fashion design and luxury branding from the London College of Fashion and Istituto Marangoni, Li brings a refined, high-fashion sensibility to everything she touches. Her projects span residences, restaurants, bars, wellness and childcare spaces across London, Hong Kong and Guangzhou. But since Covid-19, she's discovered her true passion: tablescape styling and hosting. Through her content platform Essence of Hosting, launched in January 2025, Li transforms everyday moments into memorable experiences, one beautifully set table at a time.
Here, she shares her top five tips for creating a festive table that's equal parts stunning and accessible—plus reveals the creative minds who inspire her work.
See also: Lea Salonga, Disney’s original Jasmine and Mulan, is set to sing at Hong Kong Disneyland next year
Above Vinki Li from Essence of Hosting shares her tips for the perfect tablescape (Photo: courtesy of Li)
Vinki Li from Essence of Hosting shares her tips for the perfect tablescape (Photo: courtesy of Li)
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Tip 1: Table Linen and The 1.4:1 Ratio
"I love saving on table linens by hunting for fabrics in Hong Kong, especially at Sham Shui Po. There are so many beautiful materials at amazing prices. I usually pick fabric about 1.4 times the size of my table so it drapes nicely. Hem the edges and you instantly have a custom tablecloth or napkin. I sometimes add trims, ribbons or hand-made details to make the linens extra special. It's a fun way to get creative and really personalise your tablescape."
Tip 2: Invest in 2 or 3 Sets of High-Quality Dinnerware
"For me, dinnerware really makes or breaks a tablescape; it's what people interact with most. I always invest in two or three timeless sets of plates, bowls and serving pieces. They act as the canvas for the food and instantly elevate the table. Classic shapes and neutral tones are my go-to because they mix and match effortlessly and make every meal feel polished and thoughtfully presented."
Tip 3: Texture & Height
"One of my favourite tricks is playing with texture and height. I love combining wood, marble, ceramics and glass to give the table depth and interest. I usually use cheese boards, marble platters, candle stands or tiered trays to build organic layers. Not only does it look beautiful, but it also helps guide the flow of dishes when entertaining. A mix of textures and heights makes the table feel curated and full of character."
Tip 4: Colour, Flavour & Balance—The 3-2-1 Rule
"I often start with a colour palette and stick to it; it instantly makes the table look cohesive. I like adding edible elements like fresh herbs, fruit, flowers or even bread and cheese, which bring both colour and flavour. I always follow the 3-2-1 rule: 60 per cent of the table is in the dominant colour, 30 per cent secondary, and 10 per cent as an accent. It keeps the table balanced, vibrant and inviting, and it's always fun to see how the food becomes part of the decor."
Tip 5: Ambience Is Everything
"Lighting is everything; candlelight is the secret to transforming any tablescape into a warm, inviting atmosphere. Soft, flickering glows make a space feel cosy and intimate. I like mixing different candle heights and holders to create gentle movement across the table. The effect is instantly magical, and it's such an easy way to elevate a dinner party and set the perfect mood for an unforgettable evening."
Where Vinki Finds Her Inspiration
We Are ONA
We Are ONA works with different chefs and local, ethical producers to stage some of the most creative dining experiences in unexpected places.
See also: Exclusive: Inside We Are Ona’s dining event — A fusion of gastronomy, art and design
Herrlich Dining
Herrlich Dining is a female-run culinary studio based in Berlin that I greatly admire. Founded by Hannah Kleeberg, they host artfully presented dishes and share recipes with their online community. Their style is quirky yet elegant and approachable, and overall, it's very fun as well.
Omer Gilony
I love how Omer brings her set design background into creating highly theatrical tablescapes inspired by 18th-century art and baroque aesthetics. I admire the way Omer uses vintage tableware, rich fabrics and florals to create such emotionally striking environments.
As Content Director at Tatler Hong Kong, Tara shapes the brand's editorial vision across social, digital and print, and reports on Asia's most influential figures — from CEOs and leaders across business, style and the arts. In her dual role as Head of VIP, she also drives the planning and execution of Tatler's flagship IPs, curating star-studded events and building the relationships and communities that define the brand. Born and raised in the Middle East, she honed her craft in Dubai, crafting communication strategies for luxury brands across the Gulf. Follow her on Instagram @tarasobti.
