Make it an Evening to Remember

Officially my all-time favorite classic movie, I sat and watched Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner having not seen it in at least 10 years. Made in 1967, the movie was ahead of its time, and surprisingly the themes of interracial relationships, calls for tolerance, and inclusion still resonate today.

Doreen Chambers founder of Doreen Chambers Interiors. Photographed by Franklin Thompson.

Both families meet for the first time for a formal dinner at the bride-to-be’s parents’ elegant home. After much back and forth between the two sets of parents there’s a realization that they have much in common. Happily, it all works out in the end and the delightful couple fly off to Geneva to get married. Who doesn’t love a happy ending??  So, we created a beautiful tableau weaving in some of the movie’s themes for our own elegant evening at home.

 

 

Christmas is a holiday we traditionally celebrate with family and friends. This year though, for most of us, it will mean smaller gatherings at home.  It’s especially important to find ways to celebrate The Holidays or any significant occasion because of the Pandemic. Albeit smaller and more intimate, a festive table setting will always be appreciated by your guests.

Photographed by Franklin Thompson Tabletop styling and home decor by Doreen Chambers

 

Whether going all out or keeping it simple, this is the occasion to express your creativity with items you may already own.  A mix of plain and pattern plates is a tried & true stylish touch that brings panache to each place setting.  Have the tablecloth be your foundation to pull those varied elements together, along with the same placemats or napkins for everyone.

 

Continue the festive mood with a seasonal poinsettia plant or two, along with shimmering tea-lights strategically placed on the table to add a glamorous glow. Fill that special-occasion only champagne bucket or large planter with ice and a bottle of whatever you’ll be serving with dinner – another step to elevating your table-scape.  Think about dining in a different location, if space allows, like setting up a small table in the living room for a cozy gathering.

At home, casual chic, embellished with a touch of brocade or velvet completes the festive vibe. Let the festivities begin and make this year’s Holiday special and one to remember.

 

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