Firstly, I would like to say that I am a firm believer there is not one way to style anything. One can be inspired by another’s work but all styling no matter whether it is clothing, interiors or a table is 100% original because it is executed through the lens of the creator.

We find ourselves gathering around the dining table more as the cooler mornings set in and the ground is damp in some parts of the world. The evenings are crispy and it might seem like every outdoor dinner is the “last”. Not to make anyone mad but our al fresco dining has started in the desert.

I remember living in Germany and my husband and I would say to one another, “this is our last dinner outside” and to a German, this is a really big deal - especially “fruhstuck” which is breakfast auf Deutsch. It is common to hear the clanking of forks on plates and spoons in cups stirring the tea or coffee on a weekend morning during a stroll. This sound is just one of my favorites, How about you? I don’t know what it is but it could be that is encapsulates eating outside in a slow way, savoring fresh bread and fruit with amazing pastries and coffee with conversation and without a phone. These amazing bottles were also always on the table - they are like a staple in every European home.

Ok, I got a little sidetracked. Oops. Let’s get back to the table, shall we?

A tablecloth on the table just sets the tone - it is a base for intention and makes the moment feel special even if it is just tea or coffee and cake which is a very German tradition on Sundays with friends and family.

Adding special plates that create conversation is a wonderful addition to the table. A vintage bread basket originally for proofing makes an ideal bread basket or holder for a fruit bowl.

Special spoons, butter pats that don’t just need butter but also can hold jam, honey, olive pits, you name it - they are versatile.

A candle always helps, this is just quintessential to a beautiful table.

When we style a table we are creating so much more than a place to eat and gather, we are making space for memories and meaningful conversation.

If you have ever ordered from me you have noticed inside your box is a thank you card and a postcard that is always pre-stamped. It can either be a reminder to put on your fridge or desk or a note to a friend you want to share a little message with.

The little things matter, they make an ordinary setting feel extraordinary. If we never go just a touch over ordinary what are we even doing?

We all have the ability to make life extraordinary - but do we have the discipline to slow down and ponder for a moment the importance of it all?

Can you see how setting the table can make life exceptional? This has nothing to do with how much money you spend, it has everything to do with the intention behind it.

Sure, we can slap down some plates and cuttlery and call it a day OR we could purchase hand made linen that has lasted decades already and has stories within itself. It’s the patina that makes it special.

It feels like our culture has gotten away from intentionally creating special moments, the kind people remember with a simple yet overwhelmingly beautiful tabletop is something they will remember. Someone made something special for them. This they will remember in their heart. In return, our cups are filled and we can see that we too have an astonishing amount of value to add to the world that perhaps we didn’t truly realize.

It is about honoring people and their presence.

I call it a superpower.

How about you?

Do you set a table often?

What are your favorite items to set the table with?

TIPS FOR THE TABLE STYLER

add some fruit to your table - right on the tablecloth, this could be apples or persimmon during the fall or even pears.
small candles that hold votives instantly transform a table from bland to wow.
A long taper candle in brass just has it’s own vibe.
different plates create a sense of depth and curiosity.
don’t forget the little things like butter pats and marmalade jars.
cheese molds make for great dishes on the table to hold bread or fruit.

When we take the time to set a table and honor the people at our table we create a sense of belonging, a refuge in a world that shows us often and sadly, the opposite.

p.s.

I will be setting tables for two events this October for Desert Design Week. One is for Mayla Greiner in her beautiful private garden where we will transport the guests into a space that is overflowing with beauty in the most simple yet organic way. I will be using all my items from France and I am so excited! This Le Potager event is on October 18th if you would like to come I believe there are a few tickets left.

Another garden event I will be styling for is the . Evening in the Garden showcasing the work of artist Dero Christensen on October 25th. This is hosted by Kristen and Cole Horchler. This event is filled with amazing art and a sit down dinner in a garden. See Desert Design Week for more details.

Thank you for being here, and thank you for staying the conversation.

Next time I write here I will be in France! À la prochaine!