Every time I set a table online, a small but highly motivated committee arrives to inform me that a fork, glass or napkin is several centimetres away from where it apparently lives by law.

Formal table-setting conventions do exist. They are useful because they give guests a familiar visual language: what will be used, in which order and where to find it. But formality is a scale, and personal preference is not necessarily a correction.

The point of etiquette is to make people feel comfortable. If your table is technically perfect but everyone is frightened to touch it, we have rather missed the point.

Here are the conventions worth understanding, and the areas where you can safely calm down and enjoy yourself.

Easter décor doesn’t have to mean pastel overload or kitschy bunny figurines. This year, embrace a more sophisticated approach with chic, understated styling that feels fresh yet refined. From sculptural floral arrangements to a curated ‘dipped in chocolate’ colour palette, this guide will show you how to elevate your Easter tablescape with elegance and intention.

Valentine’s Day is all about showing your love, but expressing it through flowers doesn’t have to mean splurging on overpriced roses. If you’re looking for a thoughtful yet budget-friendly way to impress your partner, I’ve rounded up some stunning flower options that are perfect for our Australian summer season.

Keeping a home in order can feel like a never-ending job. No matter how tidy it is the night before, it often feels like it resets overnight. Cushions move, benches collect things, the energy drops. And when life is busy, it can feel like you’re already behind before the day has even started.