As the holiday season slowly settles in, the art of hosting takes on a special kind of magic. At Oatbox, we love imagining simple, cozy moments that bring people together around a beautiful table and a comforting meal. 🎄🍽️
To end the year on a high note, we turned to the perfect person to talk about brunch, atmosphere, and winter indulgence: Margaux Food — culinary creator, table stylist, and Oatbox ambassador.
Tips for Creating a Warm Holiday Brunch Atmosphere
For you, what does “hosting well” during the holidays mean?
M : For me, it’s allowing yourself that little extra touch of magic.
It’s that mix of energy and details that makes you feel instantly comfortable the moment you walk in: a home that smells amazing, décor that’s a bit more “extra” than usual, Michael Bublé playing on repeat, textures and colors that put everyone in a festive mindset. I love when the host greets you with open arms, a real smile, in a warm space where nothing feels too rigid.
As soon as the house breathes the holidays — candles, the playlist, the festive outfit you finally embrace — the mood sets in naturally, and you unplug without even noticing.
Where does your passion for table styling and hosting come from?
M : Definitely from my parents, especially my mom Katrine (@kpourkatrine). She loved hosting and always went all in for every occasion. Halloween parties, holiday dinners… everything was always so special.
When I was little, I used to look forward to those moments so much. They put so much love into hosting that it left a mark on me.
Today, creating moments for the people I love comes directly from that.
Essentials & Ideas for a Successful Holiday Brunch
When you plan a holiday brunch, what are your must-haves?
M : A good coffee to start — or a chai, or a pumpkin spice latte. Something warm and comforting, especially in winter. Then: simple recipes that look beautiful on the table.
Oatbox Overnight Oats are perfect because you can prep them the night before. In the morning, you only have to garnish. My favorite is Orange and Dark Chocolate — the flavors are perfect for the holidays, and the orange zest adds a magical touch. You can add granola, chocolate, candied oranges… it creates a stunning spread with zero stress.
How to Create the Perfect Holiday Brunch Mood
When you host, what do you start with: ambiance, menu, or décor?
M : I always start with the ambiance. I ask myself: What mood do I want to create for this moment? Cozy, festive, elegant, playful…
Often, a theme naturally emerges, and from there everything becomes easier.
The ambiance then guides the menu, the décor, the color palette, the table styling.
When the intention is clear, everything else falls into place.
Your tips for creating a beautiful table without overcomplicating it?
M : I get a lot of inspiration from Pinterest, but honestly, I truly believe that less is more.
My essentials:
- • A beautiful base set of tableware
- • Tablecloths or placemats that I switch depending on the occasion
- • One or two pops of color
- • And my favorite trick: using food as décor
I love placing ingredients on the table that also appear in the dishes I’m serving: fruits, nuts, citrus zest, or even small portions of the star products on the menu.
It creates a lovely visual echo, highlights the flavors of the brunch, and costs almost nothing. It gives the table a look that’s simple, warm, and beautifully organic.
What’s your signature Margaux touch when you host?
M : Candles. Lots of candles.
All sizes, different scents. It’s simple, but it instantly creates a cozy and enveloping atmosphere. The “wow” effect is immediate.
Thoughtful Touches for Welcoming Guests to a Holiday Brunch
What little detail makes the biggest difference when welcoming someone into your home?
M : Coffee. Offering a good coffee changes everything.
Right now, I’m using Café Balade beans, roasted here in Québec. I prepare them with Oatbox Barista Oat Drink, which gives a perfect micro-foam.
I’m still practicing my latte art (laughs), but even if it’s not perfect, a coffee made with love instantly puts people at ease and sets a warm tone.
Do you like sending your guests home with a little gift?
M : Oh yes! As a content creator, I’m lucky to receive lots of beautiful products, and I love sharing them with my friends.
When I host brunch, my guests almost always leave with a bottle of Oatbox Oat Drink — it’s become a classic!
Otherwise, it might be a nice bottle of olive oil, a small gift bag with products I love, or even leftovers from the brunch (always appreciated).
I love when guests leave with a little something — it’s sweet and thoughtful.
What would you say to people who feel intimidated about hosting?
M : I’d say: start small.
Invite two people, make a simple menu, use good products, and most importantly… stop aiming for perfection.
People aren’t coming to be impressed — they’re coming to spend time with you.
Prep one or two things the night before, keep the rest simple, and let go.
Hosting quickly becomes a pleasure when you allow yourself to do things “well enough” instead of “perfect.”
Table Trends for a Holiday Brunch in 2025
What table trend are you loving for winter 2025-2026?
M : I love everything that turns the table into a warm little cocoon:
-
• Natural, comforting textures — soft linen, warm wood
-
• Deep, cozy tones — burgundy, caramel, cocoa brown… colors that warm up the atmosphere
-
• Delicate golden touches — brushed gold or matte brass for a soft, festive glow
-
• Organic-shaped tableware — imperfect curves that make everything feel more alive and welcoming
What Margaux reminds us is that hosting isn’t about perfection — it’s about ambiance, intention, and thoughtful touches that make people feel good.
A warm table, simple dishes, and just like that, you have everything you need for a perfect holiday brunch.