A mix of textures, eras, and good company. All a must.
Each December, my mother methodically removed all of our dishes from the cabinets and replaced them with our holiday set. My father wasn't too fond of the Christmas Tree Spode set we used for the month, but it wasn't for him. It was for her!
She, and my grandmother before her, were the type to fully set the table.
Having inherited their desire for perfection - and serving platters, linens, and dish sets - I've grown to love the act of setting the table. So as we enter hosting season, I've complied a list of timeless pieces that will turn any meal into a festive tableau.
Tablecloths
Tablecloths are pretty old-world, but for very special occasions, I love to use one of my grandmother's lace tablecloths. It's a little dramatic, but let your guests know I'd like you to take a picture of what I'm about to serve.
For a more casual dinner, I also love a lace table runner.
Florals
This vase by Italian ceramist Ivo Angel (from Bucatini in LA's Echo Park) is the perfect statement-maker.
Lighting
For me, the ultimate lighting comes from candles, which, of course, require a thoughtful candlestick holder.
Silver is always a good idea, but I do love a novelty piece mixed in for a bit of texture and personality.
Lighting Part Deux
For the candles themselves, simple white ones are always a classic I have on hand.
But adding twisted tapers or a little pop of color will add dimension.
Lucky Star Candles are handmade in Los Angeles, and so beautiful you may not want to light them!
Drinks
Let's talk about drinks. Something I've decided I need this year is a champagne chiller! I'm always striving to create a restaurant experience at home.
Cocktails upon arrival, wine with dinner. Don't forget to tip your waiter.
Serveware
Flatware
Napkins
Last but not least, let's talk about napkins.
For a seated dinner, I will definitely pull out the cloth napkins and a novelty napkin ring. Keep it simple or go crazy, just use anything but a paper towel.
My personal passion lies in printed paper napkins. I'm probably the youngest person pursuing Caspari's pattern catalog, but I'm hoping to change that...
A gorgeous cocktail napkin stack, next to your appetizers, is the easiest way to let your guests know you thought of everything.
