A Burns night table-scape

This morning, Susie and I went foraging to practice our Burns Night table-scape.  We are having a party and this year it just so happens that Burns night falls on a Sunday.  So we thought, if we are having a January retox, why not do it on a Sunday!  We collected moss, ferns, lichen, and other bits and bobs, then returned to the house rather muddy. We have a vision and plan to go all out!

The table itself is shaping up to be a total spectacle. Moss everywhere. Candles sitting high on candlesticks, tied with tartan ribbons. Polished silver and glass so that it feels twinkly. All the lights will be off on the night. Perfect for a dramatic Scottish Burns Night dinner.

Guests are invited to arrive in black tie, with a touch of tartan. After drinks and canapés, my dear friend Mike, our unsuspecting piper as I haven't asked him yet, will pipe us into dinner. There will be an ‘Address to a Haggis’ — we have to. It’s tradition. 

Our evening will begin with whiskey cocktails and Scottish-inspired canapés. Our first course, smoked salmon and pickled cucumber, will be plated. I know it’s old school, but there’s something rather lovely about coming to a table that’s ready to go. The main event must, of course, feature the classic haggis, neeps, and tatties — but with a twist: I’ve always loathed mashed swede on its own, so I’m making a potato-root vegetable mash and serving it with steaming green beans. We will finish with something very light — I’m thinking a sloe gin jelly or something similar.

For Susie and I, this is extra special. We live and breathe tartan at Antana Styles, making accessories with it every day.  But Burns Night isn’t just about wearing tartan, we want to celebrate it by weaving it into the chaos, the candlelight, and the ceremony of our Burns supper.

We can’t wait to share the evening with you.

Antonia x