Design Event: The Art of Entertaining

A couple of weeks ago South Coast Plaza hosted an event showcasing inspiring vignettes from nearly 20 home collections, including Hermes, Versace, Baccarat, NapaStyle, Emmo Home, Room & Board, Bloomingdales, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, and Williams-Sonoma. Several stores showcased newly launched pieces, exclusives and ones that have not even hit the stores yet. The tablescapes created by each vendor were absolutely beautiful and filled with inspiring ideas! Later in the evening I attended a private al fresco dinner with fellow designers, editors, and representatives from several of the companies who showcased their new merchandise. The dining table was centered in a courtyard, surrounded by a canopy of draped fabric and twinkle lights...it was breath taking! The dinner was delicious and I had a wonderful time meeting all of the people who attended. I'm more inspired than ever to host an outdoor dinner party one day soon! What about you? Do you like to entertain outside in the summer?

The seating consisted of large chesterfield sofas mixed with gold chiavari chairs and slip-covered chairs. 

The table was tightly wrapped with burlap, which I thought was a fantastic idea! The neutral color & texture served as a nice backdrop for the colorful flowers, candles and accents that decorated the table.

We each took home a copy of new book, The Comfortable Home by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams.

Me with my best friend Gina

I couldn't get enough of the gorgeous tabletop! This is my dream outdoor summer dinner party. 

Favors for each guest were an over-sized terrycloth beach towel/ blanket courtesy of Henri Bendel.

Design vignette by Z Gallerie

A beautiful tablescape by Hermes

Crystal stemware and table setting by Lalique

White mugs filled with fresh herbs serve as a centerpiece in lieu of flowers. I love this idea!

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PHOTO CREDITS: TAKEN BY JULIE THIGPEN