Hosting an intimate at-home birthday

The smallest celebrations are often the most memorable. A handful of friends, a single carefully chosen cake, a table that feels considered rather than over-styled.

Start with one focal piece — a single tiered cake or a curated bento box — then build the rest of the table around it: linen, taper candles, a few stems in low vases.

Keep food simple and let the cake do the work. A small savoury platter, a glass of something cold, and you have an evening.