Don't be late! Summer School is in session!
Lesson 1: How to Mix & Match
This is our most asked question! While there is no right or wrong answer, we recommend selecting a comment element (color or pattern) and using throughout your tablescape. For this picnic themed party, we used our new Navy Greek Key Tablecloth as the neutral base and tied our napkins with a navy geometric ribbon and a small picnic basket. The ribbon pattern and color unifies the table and “ties” it all together.
Lesson 2: One Tablecloth = Multiple Looks
We recognize table linens are an investment & need to work in a variety of ways! Our linens are crafted with quality fabrics to last for years. For this lesson, we selected our Coral Coral tablecloth and changed placemats & dinner napkins for very different looks. From coastal vibe to monochromatic, casual to fancy, each tablescape is unique. We recommend selecting a tablecloth in a color or pattern that you love and purchasing several different sets of napkins. And if you recall from yesterday’s lesson, these napkins work together if hosting a large gathering by mixing & matching!
Lesson 3: Layering the Table
1) Start with a colorful tablecloth. This is your building block for the rest of the table. I selected our Prep Stripe Tablecloth.
2) Add a charger or placemat or both! I love to use a mixture of fabric & natural elements for added texture.
3) Stack up the plates! This is not the time for less is more. I use as many plates & bowls as I can find! You can collect the “extras” once guests are seated.
4) Finish with pretty napkins, glasses & silverware. Think of this as your lipstick or earrings - the finishing touch!
Lesson 4: Our Favorite Napkin Fold
Y’all know we love a napkin fold & the Rose Fold is a classic! Grab a cloth napkin & click here to follow along.
Lesson 5: How to Mix Our Favorite Summertime Cocktail 🍹
Start with a cocktail shaker and add 2 oz of fresh grapefruit juice, 1 oz of fresh lemon juice, 1 oz of vodka, ice. Give it a good shake. Pour into a pretty cocktail glass and top with club soda. Garnish with fresh rosemary & a lemon slice. Serve with a Hen House cocktail napkin!
Extra tips: Sometimes I cheat and use store bought grapefruit juice but it’s much better with fresh! Always use fresh lemon juice - there is no substitute. And, Shasta Club Soda in the little glass bottle is the best!
