How to Host a Cosy Games Night
Whether you are participating in Dry January as part of your New Year’s resolutions or fancy a cosy night in with loved ones or friends, we have everything you need to make sure you have the perfect cosy night in. While away the hours by playing some of your old favourites or explore the game’s world and try something new. Whether you are looking for something that offers high-level strategy or something a little more relaxing we have a vast selection of classic games which can accommodate whilst looking and feeling beautiful. From classic chess to solitaire, there is something for everyone, with some games night essentials to accompany them.
If you are looking to host a games night with friends and family or just a cosy night in with your partner, we have outlined 3 steps to make sure your games night goes off with a bang, from classic games to beautiful candles to help set the mood.
Step 1: Create the space
Make sure you have a space cleared where you can all get around the game for example a coffee table or dining table. Once the space is chosen why not set the mood with some beautiful candles and lighting. Some of our favourites for creating a relaxing atmosphere are the Vanilla Blanc candles and Ginkgo light books.
Vanilla Blanc Natural Bergamot and Huile de Ylang Scented Candle
This soy candle has been made from a mixture of carefully selected essential oils, to create a natural fragrance. Create a warm atmosphere in your living room with one of these unique candles, perfect for a relaxing evening in. Play one of your favourite games by candlelight, allowing you to experience a therapeutic evening of fun and destressing.
Gingko Design Smart Book Light – Mini
This mini book light from Gingko is the perfect way to light up the room. The faint warm glow is just enough for you to see your pieces and analyse your opponent’s poker face. This unique light is a dream for avid readers who can show their love for reading with this beautiful light. A suitably intellectual lighting set up for a night of head-to-head competition.
Step 2: Picking the Game
Once the scene has been set it is time to pick the perfect game. It is important you pick and game to suit the people playing and the number of people involved. If you are looking for some one-to-one competition with your other half a traditional game of Chess, Checkers or backgammon would be a good option. Alternatively, if you are after a group game you might choose to play some classic card game like rummy, crazy eights, or poker.
Philos Wooden Solitaire Set with Black Marbles
This classic, light wood, solitaire set from Philos is the perfect way to introduce you to the game. Why not try something new this evening? This set is ideal for casual gaming as you enjoy each other’s company, as well as opportunities to learn the more advanced intricacies of the game. Featuring a circular board and black marbles, this set is fun to play and even more fun to win.
Manopoulos Backgammon and Chess Set in Wood Case
This fantastic backgammon and chess board is the perfect combination of two of the most popular classic games. With more options of games to play, this set is ideal for those who have dabbled in both games before but are looking to hone their skills. The smaller size is ideal for a comfortable game on the sofa, allowing you to sit back and relax as you think of your next move.
Manopoulos Walnut Style Wood Backgammon Set
Why not try your hand at backgammon with this fantastic, walnut wood, set from Manopoulos? A great game for two players, you really can’t go wrong with this classic. The easy to grasp rules and intricately carved board makes this set so much fun to play with. Ideal for younger members of the family, this game is great for all ages. With the aim of the game to remove all 15 pieces from the board, who will be the first to bear off?
Our top games for groups of more than 2 people:
Manopoulos Classic Four in One Wooden Games Compendium -Modern
This Four in One Games Compendium from Manopoulos is a great option to dip your toes into a large selection of different classic games. The boards classic black, white, and natural wood colouring will match with any home décor and look fabulous on display in your home. A great set for kids to play along with, the set includes the classic backgammon and chess as well as ludo and snakes and ladders. With more options of games to play, this is the perfect addition to a game’s night full of variety.
Helena Eliptic Wooden Rummy Game Set
The Eliptic Wooden Rummy Game Set from Helena is the best way to introduce yourself to a new game. The popular game Rummy features wooden racks and colourful tiles used to display the numbers chosen to all players. This game is a combination of the card game Rummy and Mahjong, making it great fun to learn and play. This particular set features unique, intricate carving in the wood, making it truly eye-catching.
Manopoulos Luxry Poker Set in Black Wooden Case
The Luxury Poker Set in Black Wooden Case from Manopoulos is an absolute game night essential. Ideal for pairing with other games or for use on their own, this poker set is ideal for having the ultimate game of poker. A great game to play in larger groups, this would be the perfect opportunity to prove who really is the reigning poker champion amongst your family and friends.
Italfama Playing Card Set in Leatherette Presentation Box
Playing cards are a game night staple that can be used to play an endless selection of games. The leatherette case adds a touch of luxury and is sure to impress your guests. A great way to wind down after an intense evening of game play, a simple game of solitaire is ideal. From poker to blackjack, there are hours of fun to be had with a simple deck of cards.
Step 3: Make sure your guests do not hungry
You do not want any hangry guests during an intense game of poker so make sure you have finger food out and available to nibble on throughout the night. There is no need to serve a three-course meal, but a nice antipasto wouldn’t go a miss. With a large selection of serving boards, we have plenty that would suit the evening, from stylish engraving serving trays from just slate to solid oak serving boards by Rio Lindo.
Why not accompany your appetisers with some red wine served in a beautiful decanter which would allow the wine to breath over the duration of the evening or for those looking for a stiffer drink and glass of whiskey would hit the spot. For those on driving duty, a carafe for iced water or maybe flavoured water would be a nice addition.
From serving boards to classic games, we have outlined our 3 steps to creating the perfect games night. We hope that you have found some inspiration for future game nights with your loved ones and if you would like to see more of what we have to offer visit our Classic Games department, Drinks Cabinet and At Home sections on the website.