Nothing beats a beautiful South African summer. Longer, balmy days; casual visits with old friends, new acquaintances, and family. Lazy lunches that turn into dinners; or time spent alone, doing exactly what you want, when you want to. As we find ourselves in the heart of summer, Betsie van der Westhuizen, general manager of Maxwell & Williams South Africa, shares some top entertaining and homeware trends, and how you can make them your own.

Trend: Florals and Fine Dining at Home

“Beautifully laid tables set the scene for fine dining experiences in homes, as people choose eating at home over going out for meals,” says Betsie. “Flowers are everywhere – from the prettiest edible floral garnishes on salads, cakes and in drinks to magnificent flower installations.” It’s not only about the actual food and drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) but also how it is served.

Longer days are perfect for creating and curating the most beautifully plated dishes and platters.

Make it your own:

Add edible flowers to cold drinks and into jugs with ice water. Why not serve a cold starter soup in a wine glass or present your savoury finger snacks on a tiered cake stand?

Product Suggestion: Maxwell & Williams White Basics 3 Tier Cake Stand, R429 | Maxwell & Williams Mansion White Wine Glasses, set of six, R399 | Maxwell & Williams Diamante Cylindrical Water Jug (1.5L), R310

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Trend: Conscious Choices

“The aftershock of major world events of the past couple of years has impacted our choices and our emotional wellbeing, making us live more in the moment and reconsider every choice we make – even something as simple as pouring ourselves a drink,” says Betsie.

This homeware trend speaks to the decisions that we make for ourselves and our own wellbeing as well as choices for a more sustainable world. The conscious choice to entertain at home means you can save on cost, make healthier food choices and be conscious of the environment too.

Make it your own:

Commit to having a low (or no) waste kitchen in your home, invest in quality homeware that will last a lifetime and sustainable entertainment items. For instance, swop plastic disposable plates for reusable outdoor bamboo plates.

Product suggestions: Maxwell & Williams White Basics Diamonds 12 piece dinner set, R 1699 | Balinese Garden bowl, 25x8cm, R139 | Balinese Garden Tumblers, set of 4, R219

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Trend: Playful Designs

“We are seeing a lot of playful design these days, as consumers have a renewed joy for life during the beautiful summer months. This homeware trend is about empowerment for all. It is about making unapologetic, joyful lifestyle and design choices. Serveware and crockery also take on a fun and playful look this season. “Young, female energy is embraced by all – regardless of the age or identity of the person.”

Fun graffiti-inspired designs, florals and interesting shapes in homeware and on tables are all the rage! A colour palette that mixes fun hues like pinks and purples with red. Also look out for lemon sorbet, curried yellow, and pastels that remain on-trend.

Make it your own:

The best part of this trend is that you can unapologetically express your own personality, and in doing so, make your home more welcoming.

Product suggestions: Maxwell & Williams Kasey Rainbow Be Fierce mug set of two (380ml), R199 | Maxwell & Williams Wild at Heart Mug & Glass Set (500ml), R249

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Trend: Radical Nature

Spending time outside and embracing nature has become a necessity instead of a luxury. “People want to spend time outdoors – for casual lunches, outdoor soirees and more formal blanquetting get-togethers,” says Betsie.

Greenery in the home brings nature inside as the indoor plant trend is here to stay. ‘Plant parents’ (especially amongst millennials and Gen Z’s) continue to embrace greenery to the full – even in the smallest spaces without outside gardens. Embracing nature also extends to eating more plants as part of a flexitarian, vegetarian or vegan diet for some.

Make it your own:

Add more green to your life by eating more fruit and vegetables, buying more indoor plants or spending time outdoors.

Product suggestions: Maxwell & Williams Floriade Double Wall Insulated Bottle with Poppies, 400ml, R299 | Maxwell & Williams Round Folding Picnic Table (45x45x24cm), R 1299 | Maxwell & Williams Dune Acacia wood serving board (48x15cm), R399

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Trend: Finding Joy in the Ordinary

“We see that emotion dictates choices as consumers make decisions based on how they feel,” says Betsie. “Individuals in 2023 have a better understanding of how their emotional and physical wellbeing are related.

“Consumers are seeking out activities and space where they can let their thoughts glow and unwind their busy minds. Low tech, healing spaces inside the home – even the smallest corner – is gaining much importance.”

Make it your own:

Prioritize your wellbeing – even in the most mundane activities – let these serve as a reminder of the small joys in life. Make a cup of tea in a beautiful mug, arranging flowers in a vase, taking a walk with a cup of coffee in hand or cook a meal from scratch.

Product suggestions: Maxwell & Williams Dahlia Daze Tea for One pot with Infuser (340ML) from the Teas & C’s range, R639 | Maxwell & Williams Floriade Double Wall Insulated Cup Irises (360ml), R299 | Maxwell & Williams William Morris Mug Black Seaweed Coupe (420ml), R119 | Maxwell & Williams Marc Martin BFF Big Dog Little Dog mug (400ml), R119

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About Maxwell & Williams

Maxwell & Williams understand how people use tableware. Since entering the market in 1995, the iconic Australian brand has offered something for every taste and occasion. The high-end ceramics, glass, stainless steel and acrylics are made of the finest materials, from the world’s leading manufacturers. Traditionally know for white sets, Maxwell & Williams has expanded to offer over 2000 quality and affordable mix and match items. Maxwell & Williams is available in over 120 outlets in South Africa, Takealot.com, Yuppiechef.com and from the Maxwell & Williams online store.

Explore Maxwell & Williams’ full range of products at their website below or follow them on social media for more homeware inspiration. 

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