48 WWW.CHARLESTONWOMENPODCAST.COM | WWW.READCW.COM | WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/CHARLESTONWOMEN Focus on the Foundation Lois MacRitchie, owner of The Boutique Charleston, also prepares well before an event. “I start a few days in advance by laying out the flatware and serving pieces, assessing what needs extra polish,” she says. She then chooses from a large assortment of her grandmother’s Irish linen tablecloths, placemats and napkins, plus crystal stemware from her parents’ collection and flowers from local wholesalers. “For setting a cozy mood with warm light flickering in rhythm with the conversation, add other elements such as candlesticks, hurricanes or portable lamps,” MacRitchie says. Create a Vibescape For Angie Dupree, owner of Hospitality Revival and Salvage South, tablescaping is “an act of intention that layers meaning into meals.” She focuses on storytelling through design. “Setting the vibe with music as well as decor such as linens, plates and platters with unexpected mismatched patterns and colors, alongside elements like driftwood and decoupaged oyster shells tells a story,” she says. “Seasons matter, too, so keep that in mind when styling the presentation and planning the menu.” Rather than shopping for new pieces, Dupree thrifts and borrows from nature. “Whatever is growing is relevant to the season,” she adds. “Look for leaves to bundle for creating a dried arrangement or tucking into napkins.” She advises following the 3-5-7 design rule, using, for example, three candlesticks, five shells and seven vases. Also, ditch the overhead lights and use ambient lighting such as candles or lamps. More than a tablescape, entertaining calls for a vibescape, she says. HOLIDAY TABLESCAPES Expert Tips for Memorable Entertaining BY SARAH ROSE HOME + LIFESTYLE Create a stylish tablescape that sets the stage for making fond memories this holiday season and beyond with these expert tips from Charleston’s entertaining professionals. Plan Ahead for Success Victoria Fanning, owner of Arte Italica and Crown Linen Designs, avoids last-minute stress by laying out the table a day or two before entertaining. She begins by determining which serving pieces will be used and places a sticky note on each bowl and platter to remind herself what goes where on the day of the event. She then selects linens from her company’s collection, all made in Ukraine. “Layering textures adds elegance and dimension,” she says. “For example, instead of using a tablecloth, scrunch a runner around vases and candlesticks.” Fanning also incorporates pewter into her tablescapes, which The New York Times recently described as “sturdy and chic with understated elegance.” Her one rule for entertaining is that guests must be able to see each other across the table. “Low floral arrangements can still be gorgeous,” she advises. “Draw from nature and never go for a walk without clippers.” For more inspiration, follow @arteitalicacrownlinen on Instagram, visit arteitalica.com and shop the line locally at Rhodes Boutique, Jeffrey Bannon and The Boutique Charleston. Find MacRitchie’s tips at theboutiquecharleston.com and @theboutiquecharleston on Instagram. For Dupree’s ideas, visit angiecollective.com and follow @hospitalityrevival, @salvagesouth and @ideamotion on Instagram. Tablescape by Arte Italica The Boutique’s Tablescapes. Flowers by Lucy Hunter, The Flower Hunter
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