On the Guest List: Johanna Carlsson, Ibiza's Premier Event Planner

This month, we had the pleasure of interviewing Johanna Carlsson, the founder of JC Bespoke Events and one of Ibiza's top event planners. Originally hailing from Sweden, Johanna made the move to Ibiza in 2011 and has since become known for her exceptional talent in organising unforgettable events, ranging from intimate parties to elaborate multi-day weddings. With her boundless creativity and unique style, she has established herself as the go-to planner in the White Isle.

As the holiday season approaches, Johanna shares her expertise on creating the perfect holiday stylish table setting. Her signature style combines ultra-modern scandi glassware, vintage cutlery, and, of course, a curated selection of CasaLatina's hand-painted ceramic plates, woven placemats, and Werregue napkin rings. The result is a stunning embodiment of Hygge style, which sets the perfect atmosphere for a celebratory night in.

Shop Johanna's Edit here

On a crisp autumn afternoon, as we set the table, glass of red wine in hand, we chatted with Johanna about her secrets to a perfect holiday dinner party. 

As an event planner you have been to innumerable events, tell us about your favourite location?

This is such a good question but also so difficult to answer! I have so many - but essentially any location that feels inviting and comfortable. I don’t mind whether it’s front line sea views or countryside, but if you can make guests feel immediately at ease and at home, then you know that the event will be a success!

What's your favourite time of the year to host people? 

I love celebrating traditions and cultures so there are two days that are very special to me; one is Midsommer which is a huge celebration in Sweden where I’m from - every year I love to host a Midsommer Nights Eve dinner with all the traditional Swedish food (pickled herring included!), and the songs and flowers which have really special meaning behind them. The second is Thanksgiving; as my husband was born in the States, this is a tradition that I have somewhat adopted, but sharing a big meal with your close friends  and family, celebrating being grateful is something that I really cherish. 

What inspired you to choose the colours and shapes of your table setting?

Fall and the changing of the colours - I wanted something cosy and warm, appropriate for winter dinners next to a roaring fireplace. 

Top tip for a stylish table setting?

Always consider the table real estate and the format of your meal! If you are having an individually plated dinner then make sure you have decorations for the centre of the table (candles, flowers, fruit etc), but if you are doing a family style meal then you’ll need to be careful of how much space you need for all the sharing platters. 

The secret to a perfect dinner party?

Good music and good drinks! 

Dream guest at said party?

I think if I had to choose one person it would be my grandfather - he knew how to host a proper dinner party! 

Favourite colour ?

Green! 

Mix and Match or Matchy-Matchy?

Definitely mix and match - and that goes for everything! Styles, colours, textures…don’t be afraid to mix vintage with modern, or romantic with industrial, it creates depth and intrigue and can be a great conversation starter for your guests!

Favourite book?

I have two; One Hundred Years of Solitude and The Count of Montecristo - I can read them on repeat! 

Lastly, finish this sentence: The way to my heart is… Through a delicious home cooked meal!