By Elizabeth Winslow
Photography by Jody Horton
You scour cookbooks for the perfect recipe, shop locally for the freshest ingredients, toil for hours in the kitchen to create a meal that makes your family and friends groan with delight. But doesn’t your chef d’oeuvre deserve a backdrop that’s as equally inventive and lovely? While few of us have time for elaborate centerpieces and fussy decorations, that doesn’t mean we should dine without style. Skip the formalities; there’s more to table setting than knowing the fork goes on the left.
A beautifully dressed table sets a mood and enhances even the simplest of seasonal meals. Build on simple, classic pieces with colorful linens and intriguing accents. Bring a little of the outdoors in, and incorporate a few whimsical, seasonal touches from nature. Most of all, remember that each meal is an opportunity to celebrate, connect and conjure a little magic.

SUMMER: Couleur Nature Hibiscus Tablecloth by Bruno Lamy (Breed & Co.); Vuelta White Pearl Dinner Plate by Jars (Breed & Co.); Palladian Pewter Silverware by Vietri (Breed & Co.); Wicker Charger by Caspari (Breed & Co.); Gold and Coral Napkin Rings by L’Objet (Breed & Co.); Vuelta Sky Grey Dessert Plate by Jars (Breed & Co.); Montego White Linen Napkin by Nuko Creations (Breed & Co.); Assorted Shells and Coral (Mercury Design Studio); Capucine Tumbler by Juliska (Finch)


WINTER: Bronze Charger by Jeremie (Breed & Co.); La Crema Dinner Plate by Vietri (Breed & Co.); Couleur Nature Fig Tablecloth by Bruno Lamy (Breed & Co.); Cucina Fresca Sage Coupe Pasta Bowl by Vietri (Breed & Co.); Snail Salt and Pepper Shakers by Tag (Breed & Co.); Striped Linen Napkin by Roost (Mercury Design Studio); Moroccan Recycled Drinking Glass (Spartan); Galvanized Planter with Tray by Roost (Spartan); Classic Pewter Silverware by Vietri (Breed & Co.)
Breed & Co.
718 W. 29th St.
512-474-6679
3663 Bee Cave Rd.
512-328-3960
breedandco.com
Finch
417 W. 2nd St.
512-236-1414
shopfinch.com
Mercury Design Studio
209 W. 2nd St.
512-236-0100
mercurydesignstudio.com
Spartan
215 S. Lamar, Ste. D
512-579-0303
spartan-shop.com