Six designers, six occasions … and countless reasons to host a glamorous get-together with a table that’s all decked out to impress your guests With mild days and a deliciously cool evening breeze, home entertaining is finally back in full swing. Borrow ideas from the experts on these pages and make yours one of the best-dressed tables in town, from brunch to cocktails to an outdoor barbecue.
The six model homes at Andalusia at Coral Mountain — with their varying styles, natural light, and opulent décor — made an ideal backdrop for our six designers to work their tabletop magic in a true home setting. For more inspiration, reserve your place at Fashion Group International’s annual tabletop event on Nov. 15, where these six designers and many more will showcase a glamorous array of table-ready settings. This year’s FGI affair, “Red Haute Hollywood Evening” at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa, will feature a fashion show, dinner, and dancing, in addition to designer tabletop displays — all to support scholarships for students who wish to pursue careers in the fashion industry. That’s one reason to raise a glass and celebrate this season . We’re sure you’ll think of many more.
Lighting up the grill shouldn’t mean a jumble of plastic utensils and disposable tumblers. Cheers to alfresco dining that’s high on style.
Setting Three
Designed by Carla Embellishments for the Home,
73-505 El Paseo, Suite 1618, Palm Desert. 776-4125.
Hand-painted fine earthenware — all stripes, peacocks, and florals — makes a rustic-chic setting for brunch favorites, from boysenberry pancakes to eggs Benedict. “Artesian” place settings and serving pieces by Tracy Porter. Napkin rings, placemats, wine glasses, and frosted “Piallette” tumblers by Kim Seybert. Bamboo-handle
flatware and mini vases by Juliska.
Setting Two
Designed by Jennifer McMillan
of Mathis Brothers Furniture,
81-410 Highway 111, Indio. 775-9000
Shaken or stirred, the glass makes the mixology complete. Black leather tray, martini flutes and shaker by Pier One Imports. Faux black diamonds by Pottery Barn. Faux mink from Jo Ann Fabrics. Silk flowers from Michaels. All stores are Palm Desert locations. Pitcher is designer’s own.
Setting Four
Designed by Amanda Kaylor of Tommy Bahama’s Tropical Emporium and Café, 73-595 El Paseo, Suite 2200, Palm Desert. 836-0288
This set of earthenware dinnerware has been hand-painted, with each piece bearing a different design. “Paradise Garden” dinnerware and serving pieces, palm-etched glassware with swaying palm stem, flatware, banana leaf boxes, and floral frosted tumblers are all by Tommy Bahama.
Setting Six
Designed by Keith J. Laverty. 322-7293
Set the stage with a cluster of centerpiece arrangements, each with a distinct personality. China, crystal, and flatware by Unique Tabletop Rentals. Florals by Keith J. Laverty.
Setting One
Designed by John Moreland of Classic Chic Home Furnishings, Atrium Design Center, 69-930 Highway 111, Suite 115, Rancho Mirage. 202-2829
This casual poolside barbecue is served with a twist of
tropical elegance. Napkins and china by Tommy Bahama.
Flatware by Mikasa. Candleholders and florals
by Classic Chic. Glassware is designer’s own.
Setting Five
Designed by Paul Watson, ASID, Owner of Architectural Interiors, Rancho Mirage. 799-3739
Romance at sunrise, indeed. Two trays, a bejeweled box,
a silver toast holder, a pair of crystal flutes, and two egg cups combine to make the first moments of the day the most memorable. All items are designer’s own antiques.