How to make your home extra-special this Easter

Make Easter weekend at home memorable by crafting plenty of make-you-smile moments. Why not start a new tradition, get creative with the kids or try something fun with our quick-and-easy ideas? Dressing the home for Easter brings a sense of fresh hope, from pots of bulbs waiting to burst into life on a windowsill, to delicious chocolate eggs ready to be enjoyed. There’s excitement, anticipation and warmth in the spring-fresh air… just waiting to be celebrated.

Pop an Easter card in the post to far-away friends and family this Easter. Perhaps send the seasonal equivalent of a festive ‘Round Robin’, sharing the highs – or even the lows – of the past few months and your hopes and plans for the future. You could include a photograph of your family, perhaps on your doorstep with pots of spring flowers, your favourite spring view from your regular walk or even a drawing of the Easter bunny done by the kids.

Display any Easter cards and notes you receive – dust off that Christmas card hanger or use a length of pastel-coloured ribbon. You can always read and share notes via Zoom calls, catching up and spending virtual time together.

Originating in Germany, the trend for Easter trees adorned with decorative eggs is on the rise. If you love getting a fir tree at Christmas, then Easter is another great opportunity to flex your decorating skills. Share your Easter tree at #JLEaster.

No tree? Arrange a few blossom branches or twigs in a tall vase or jug for a quick DIY take. When it comes to decorations, think creatively: how about making papier mâché eggs? Or try crafting a pompom garland using leftover yarn. Even pastel-coloured ribbons tied into bows can transform a branch.

Talking of which, for the last few Christmases we’ve seen hanging branches above tables, dressed with foliage and decorations – this can work for Easter too. Weave in faux or fresh flowers and suspend a few lightweight eggs to make your Easter table look amazing.

Think about small touches that will make your family smile, such as little decorations on their breakfast plates on Easter Sunday, left by the Easter Bunny himself or egg cups and mugs that you’ve hand-picked for each person. 

Treat each mealtime as a mini styling moment, where you can create an Easter scene for breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. Go for classic essentials –such as a white linen tablecloth – but add in different tableware and Easter accessories throughout the day.

Easter lunch provides the perfect opportunity to be really creative, and a few simple touches can make your table look extra special. Try making bunny ears from your napkins, or adding Easter napkin rings or place cards. Personalise each place setting with an Easter gift – a decoration or a posy of spring flowers – then scatter a few mini chocolate eggs. 

Treat the household to a few Easter bakes – and involve the kids too. From cookies to traybakes, iced buns to muffins, there are plenty of ideas on Waitrose.com. But make it more than just a baking session: set up a special afternoon tea on Easter Saturday. Pop on your best spring outfits and serve your sweet treats on cake stands. Dress your table with a cloth, napkins and bring out the best china and glassware. The kids can even make menus and place cards – or why not let them be in total control, taking orders and serving the food. They will love being in charge and you can get a well-earned rest. Win-win.

There’s plenty the kids can get involved with. Why not host an Easter bonnet competition or plan an indoor Easter Egg hunt? Wind a trail of yarn around your home, with eggs left at the end, or set a treasure hunt, with clues leading from room to room.

And it’s not all about eating chocolate. As Sarah Moughtin, Partner & Junior Buyer, Seasonal Events, explains: ‘It’s getting more and more popular for parents to give toys instead of sweets and chocolate eggs… a cuddly bunny makes a nice change and lasts a lot longer!’