Emma Harding, co-founder of Re: Agency, is celebrated for her grand hosting style, ensuring every event, especially her annual Bonfire Night, is a lavish affair. This year, the festivities embraced an outdoor setting by her Upstate New York residence, transforming open fields into a vibrant party zone devoid of conventional amenities like electricity or running water. Guests were guided by a path of tiki torches to a magnificent bonfire, surrounded by tables laden with an array of food, creating an ambiance of sophisticated outdoor revelry.
Harding's knack for elevating traditional concepts was evident in her choice of a fondue theme, featuring a grand silver pot complemented by an assortment of dippables and a decorative checkerboard focaccia. The evening's culinary journey concluded with a pyramid of tiramisu coupes and sparklers, blending comfort with refined flair and a touch of controlled pyrotechnics. She meticulously curates the atmosphere, beginning with a tablecloth that defines the mood, preferring washable faux velvet for practicality, and accessorizing with modern stainless steel and glass pieces to suit a blue color scheme.
Harding advises extensive pre-preparation to allow hosts to enjoy their own party, suggesting a practical yet stylish outfit like a Marfa Stance outerwear for warmth and elegance. She relies on trusted sources for table essentials, such as Porta for linens and barware, and Toast for artisan crafts, advocating for a shimmering arrangement of fondue sets and antique silver. Her culinary philosophy focuses on presentation, making simple dishes visually appealing, such as endive leaves with lavender goat cheese or radicchio fanned in martini glasses. She also champions outsourcing tasks like baking, having a guest curate the music playlist, and thoughtfully assembling guest lists for optimal social chemistry, all while ensuring the bar area is artfully arranged and, for larger gatherings, enlisting a professional mixologist to craft seasonal cocktails that enhance the celebratory mood.
Emma Harding's approach to entertaining highlights the importance of meticulous planning, creative presentation, and thoughtful details, transforming simple gatherings into memorable experiences. Her philosophy encourages hosts to enjoy their own events by preparing in advance, delegating tasks, and embracing innovative ideas, fostering connections and creating joyful moments for everyone present.