In The Hothouse with Antoinette Lettiere
Self-proclaimed South West London dweller, Antoinette Lettieri has worked in the world of luxury events for the last 15 years. Having learnt the art of party planning with the award winning Rhubarb Food Design running events hosted anywhere from palaces, museums, jewellery boutiques to private residences, Antoinette crossed over into 5 star luxury hotels starting with COMO Hotels and Resorts and the Mandarin Oriental. Currently, Antoinette is Head of Events & Event Partnerships at The Lanesborough and was recently nominated for The Walpole Power List 2024.

Do you have a favourite spring flower and why?
Spring is the loveliest season for flowers! I adore peonies – always so classic and chic. I also love the pretty cherry blossom and magnolia which are wonderful for adding soft height and drama to floral arrangements.
What do flowers mean to you?
They mean EVERYTHING! They bring me so much joy. I find them uplifting and energising, especially in the home. I always like to have freshly cut flowers about the home to inject life and vitality into the home.
How do you like to display flowers around the home? Do you have a favourite vase or place for them?
I love flowers in the home at all times of the year. I have an entrance hall credenza which I use as a seasonal floral backdrop.
Florals play a big part in your work, what tips have you learned over the years when dressing a space with flowers for an event?
I love that my job often surrounds me with the most gorgeous flowers.


What flowers do you like to send as a gift?
A gift of flowers is always such a treat, I love all except strangely purple flowers and sunflowers!
What kind of flowers do you like to receive?
I adore Peonies in the spring and roses always steal my heart.
You create the most incredible moments at The Lanesborough. Can you describe a particularly memorable occasion that you’ve had the pleasure of overseeing?
There are so many to name – these can range from an intimate birthday dinner for 10 guests to the most fabulous black tie dinners. Of course events with floral abundance always make me catch my breath and just think WOW!


What exciting things do you have in the pipeline at The Lanesborough that you’re able to share with us?
I always say The Lanesborough might not be the biggest Hotel in town but that we host some of the most gorgeous events in town. That’s what I want to keep doing, creating stunning, magical and exceptional events no matter the budget. Of course I will always have a few projects up my sleeve, so watch this space!
What are you top tips for dressing the table for a dinner party?
I always say lots of warm candlelight to give shadow and light to the table and to illuminate the florals dressing the table. Scented candles also enhance the atmosphere and stir the senses.


Quickfire questions:
All white or colourful flowers?
Colourful!
Neat or wild arrangements?
Wild
Pretty, dainty flowers or big, showy blooms?
BOTH! It depends!
What flower do you most love to incorporate into your events?
Peonies when in season are a must!
Three words to describe your style?
Eclectic, contemporary and timeless
What are your favourite pieces from our Spring Collection?
The Brontë and The Sunshine Mimosa Bouquet.