Introducing Zoe Cuthbertson: a dynamic creative, the visionary behind Undressed Tablescapes, and a proud new mum. Zoe, who calls Melbourne home with her husband Richard and baby Rafaela, has always been driven by her love for design, food, and entertaining. This passion led her to launch her own business, where she blends her expertise in event design, content creation, and recipe development. A true artist when it comes to food styling and catering, Zoe is known for designing elegant tablescapes and crafting irresistible spreads that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. As she navigates motherhood, Zoe shares her carefully curated insights on lifestyle, offering practical tips and elegant hacks that help transform everyday moments into something special.
My name is Zoe Cuthbertson and I have a business called Undressed. Right now, I’m also learning what it is to be a mother, so my business is taking on various new forms. While once I focussed on catering and events, with more time now spent at home I’m leaning into recipe development and smaller scale projects. I’m also fortunate enough to curate content for one of my favourite ever brands, IN BED.
I want to feel comfortable yet polished. For me, this is trousers or jeans in the perfect cut, a pressed shirt, the effortless flow of a long dress, understated jewellery… I also love an element of the undone, air-dried hair, a fresh face and short - occasionally polished - nails.
Zoe wears the Liv Dress in Tomato.
To be honest, one year into motherhood and I’m still struggling to define my style. With a drastic change in lifestyle & body my wardrobe is in state of flux. I’m often in the mood to strike it and start again. Despite this, I suppose my aesthetic is quite classic.
" I don’t dive headfirst into every trend, but I cherry pick my favourites, like this beautiful Foemina dress in the colour of the season: red!"
I’m a feeder, so I suppose this is what drives me first and foremost when it comes to working in food. There is no greater honour than the act of nourishing ones family & friends, and when strangers request that of you… well, that’s just huge. I really love sharing my discoveries too, my favourite chilli oil, a new flavour for whipped butter, a dish that my daughter Rafaela has been loving. Ask any of my friends, I’m the ‘reccs girl’ (probably quite evident in this Q&A too).
"When it comes to creating a tablescape, it generally starts with a ‘spark’ - that might be an ingredient, a beautiful flower, a piece of linen, and it tends to flow from there."
Honestly sometimes it’s hard to know when you’re finished, but that’s what I love about food, it’s ephemeral nature… you can’t fuss over it for too long, because in minutes it’ll be gone.
Zoe wears the Delia Dress in White
My family, in the sense that they propel me forward and encourage me to strive for better. There are also so many incredible culinary creatives who inspire me (too many to name them all!) but some of my favourites are: @feisty_feast , @iamlaurajackson, @herrlich.dining & @omergilony .
I used to say that social media was a ‘necessary evil’ to grow a business, but since my world has reduced in size, it’s become a necessary creative outlet for me. Where once I would have to be asked to host an event to set a table, I’ve realised I can do it at home, whenever the desire strikes! Occasionally I’m asked to create tables for brands, which is a huge privilege and something I’m excited to do more of. In terms of maintaining authenticity, this is simply something that I love to do which feels true to who I am - and I try not to take myself too seriously.
I recently started a weekly newsletter on Substack: Dressed Down. Each week I document what I’ve been cooking and eating, plus what’s happening in my world (often this includes what I’m wearing too). Substack has opened me up to a community of writers whose work I adore. I find when I’m a better reader, I’m a better writer, and this format is particularly digestible. I especially love Ali LaBelle’s A La Carte.
Reading has become a sacred luxury these days, but I do love it. I also enjoy going for a solo walk and listening to a podcast (Sentimental Garbage & Every Outfit for when I need a laugh). A morning at the Sense of Self bathhouse, followed by a coffee in the sunshine is the ultimate me time. Other times, I’ve just learnt to embrace the chaos that is parenthood in all it’s loud, messy glory.
My home is my sanctuary. I’m definitely an extroverted introvert in that I love being around others, but to truly recharge I need time in solitude. For this, I need cosiness; beautiful quality linens, slouchy cushions & throws, well-worn furniture (the more past lives the better).
"I like to add personal touches here and there too, I recently framed our wedding menu - a beautiful keepsake, as well as Raf’s first artwork."
Our hallway is lined with black & white photographs of my parents when they were young. These aren’t expensive items, but to me they are priceless. Oh, and fresh flowers, always fresh flowers.
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