London Dames Shine in LDEI’s 2025 Holiday Hosting Guide
We’re delighted to share that LDEI Live Online’s November event, Festive Flavors & Gatherings, was a record-breaker — with all 75 registered attendees joining live for the very first time. The session brought together 13 Dames from across our global network to explore the heart of holiday hosting: community, generosity, and joy around the table.
Among the standout contributors were two of our own London Dames:
Elisabeth Luard, Celebrating Tradition Through “Thirteen Desserts”
Celebrated food writer and historian Elisabeth Luard captivated attendees with the beautiful Provençal tradition of Les Treize Desserts the “Thirteen Desserts” served at Christmas. Her stories illuminated how food, memory, and heritage intertwine, offering a gentle reminder that holiday hosting is as much about meaning as it is about menus. Elisabeth’s contribution is featured in the guide, along with her insights on keeping traditions alive in fresh, modern ways.
Clare Donovan, Hospitality From the Heart
We were equally proud of Clare Donovan, whose work with Cooking Champions exemplifies the true spirit of the season. Clare shared how the organisation opens its doors and hearts to bring people together over nourishing food, especially during the holidays. Her reflections on community, welcome, and warmth embody the values we hold dear across LDE London.
To make all the brilliant advice and recipes easy to revisit, LDEI has created the 2025 Holiday Hosting Guide a beautifully curated collection of tips, traditions, and festive inspiration from all 13 speakers.
Download the 2025 LDEI Holiday Hosting Guide
Wishing all our London Dames a season filled with warmth, laughter, and memorable celebrations.