The Edit podcast from the team at Home Beautiful is a space to connect and belong to a growing group of our audience who want to go behind the scenes of our glossy pages to discover exactly what makes a house a home.
We’re talking to our favourite people in the interiors world – designers, retailers, homewares heroes, and some unexpected interiors enthusiasts who’ll share what makes their own homes special, from the first memories of the spaces they inhabited in childhood to how they live and entertain today.
In this festive Christmas special episode of The Edit, host Elle Lovelock is joined by home and styling expert Tara Dennis to ask a brave question: what if Christmas at home didn’t feel like a performance, but like an exhale? From her idyllic riverside house, usually sparkling with champagne-toned baubles, brass bells and warm white fairy lights, Tara shares how she creates “a warm welcome Christmas home” without losing her mind in the process. Together, Elle and Tara unpack calm‑in‑the‑chaos strategies for real families: how to decorate with laid‑back luxury on any budget, where to cut corners, and why “it’s not the season, it’s the day” that really matters.
Tara and Elle dive into the emotional load of holiday hosting—the pressure not to “let anyone down,” the invisible to‑do lists, and the way social media can make everyone feel like they’re failing at Christmas style. Tara gently reframes the whole season, reminding listeners that “my house is always calm when we’re down,” and that the most memorable moments rarely involve perfect tablescapes. Instead, she shares grounded rituals: putting your phone in a drawer, watching silly movies, lighting candles, and choosing one or two meaningful traditions (not twenty) to anchor the day for kids and adults alike.
“It’s the season, it’s not so much the day, and I think that’s what overhwhelms.”
Tara Dennis
If you’re searching for Christmas calm ideas, stress‑free Christmas decorating, relaxed Christmas table styling or how to make Christmas cosy, not crazy, this episode is your gentle guide. Hit play to hear Tara’s practical tips on wreaths and garlands, small changes that make your home feel instantly more welcoming, and simple ways to give yourself time and space in the middle of the madness—because, as she puts it, “it’s not about it being perfect”.
“It’s the little touches… don’t get overwhelmed about the whole big picture thing. It’s never going to be perfect.”
Tara Dennis
If you love refining your home sanctuary, interior design, home makeovers and real-life renovation advice, this episode of The Edit is your ultimate starting point. Hit play to get inspired, get practical tips you can use this weekend, and see your home with fresh eyes.
The Edit Episode 4
The Edit by Home Beautiful
Our newest space, “The Edit” – a podcast from the team at Home Beautiful, is supported by OZ Design and Luxaflex.
Discover the real stories, personalities, and inspiring ideas behind how Australians create their style and sanctuary.
Whether you’re looking for a burst of inspiration, clever home ideas, or a little audio comfort, this show is for anyone who wants to make their space truly their own.
Listen now: Episode one of The Edit is available via the iHeart app, homebeautiful.com.au, or wherever you get your podcasts watch below or listen here.
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