“ We look at finishes , colors , fabrics , window treatment and tones of metal in the space ,” she explains . “ Chefs may want plain white plates , a canvas for their food . Some are open to a pop of color . Why not play off a special color that translates through the space ?” Jones-Greenberg advises .
Southern author , interior designer and speaker James Farmer says his grandmother taught him that we eat with our eyes first . His hallmarks are sumptuous fabrics , warm colors , rich traditions , effortless elegance , comfort and harmony . Around the table of his Perry , Georgia , home , his entertaining prowess is built on his ability to create stunning hyperseasonal looks , inspired by nature .
Following him around his house before a dinner party , he pushes the doors open to the shady patio where he will set the table , using the dining room table as a buffet . It ’ s all about freshness , with flowers , fronds , fruits arranged thoughtfully , and heirloom pieces mixing effortlessly with charming kitchen favorites .
“ The ignition that starts the creativity is always outdoors for me — like bold and perfectly ripe peaches that become the centerpiece and also star on the menu ,” explains Farmer . “ You can instantaneously work with fabrics , foliage and beautiful materials to set a great table .”
Finding your inspiration — whether in nature , in colors or in the food you plan to serve — is the first step in the art of the tablescape .
Spring tablescape in The Cloister Garden
A TABLE OF YOUR OWN Hosting a dinner party at home , menu planning and house cleaning often top the to-do list , but flexing your creative muscle by tending to the table will add layers of joy to the experience . Planning a few days ahead and visiting your local farmers market and a favorite florist for seasonal finds may inspire you .
“ When entertaining at home , consider all the elements in the room as well as those on the table ,” states Jones-Greenberg . “ Consider color , composition , shape and texture , as well as symmetry and asymmetry of the arrangement , background , point of view , depth and color .”
Find a common thread to run among your elements . The cornflower blue from a beloved china pattern might be echoed in hand-thrown pottery bread and butter plates . The wispy loops on antique crystal goblets could complement the pattern on linen napkins . Chunky napkin rings work with organic pottery chargers and nature-inspired neutrals .
Gattle ' s Fine Linens , a linen store in Naples , Florida , has been providing discerning hosts with fine linens since 1904 . “ For setting a beautiful table , I always like to have fun with napkin rings . For plain dishes , find napkins that pop with color and pattern . For dishes with patterns , I love to mix the patterns of salad and dinner plates accompanied by an elegant , plain napkin ,” states Sabrina Gamble , who manages their northern Michigan location . Use fine linen table runners , placemats and tablecloths , napkins and coasters to set the stage . Place cards and a printed menu are a nice touch .
Adjust overhead lights as the sun goes down , and light unscented candles . Buy tea lights in clear cups in bulk and mix and match jars , votive holders and shallow bowls depending on your look . Attending to these tasks with gusto will guarantee charming results .
Your guests will remember the meal for the outstanding food and meaningful conversation , but the ambience of your tablescape will create memories that last long after the final toast of the evening .
SEA ISLAND INSPIRATION
Tablescapes should be an indulgent reflection of the host , and when Sea Island Associate Director of Event Design Caroline Grogan sits down with clients to plan special weddings , intimate luncheons , important business dinners and gorgeous galas , she interviews with attention to detail . The property offers a delightful backdrop for any tablescape , so it ’ s up to her and her event design team to seamlessly translate personalities and dreams .
This spring , she is drawn to patterns that feel garden inspired , honoring femininity through texture and details like hemstitched linens and fresh yet familiar colors . Topiaries are perched near ginger jars in green and white or a more traditional blue and white . Table toppers , rather than full table cloths that hang , placemats and runners are layered for a tailored finish , offering a fine hand from high thread count linens .
“ For spring at Sea Island , we are seeing a more elevated , residential , tailored design , leaning into the feel and look of a crisp starched white shirt ,” she says .
When creating these looks at home , don ’ t be afraid of layering patterns and textures if your dining space invites eclectic design . “ It ’ s easy to coordinate if there ’ s a common style or color tone ,” Grogan suggests . “ Add texture by looking beyond pattern . Use velvet , rattan , or mix plaid and flowers . These layers only make the design richer .”
SPRING / SUMMER 2023 | SEA ISLAND LIFE 45