Rebecca Gardner, founder of the celebrated event design studio Houses & Parties, is known for crafting festive and unforgettable settings for tastemakers including Lauren Santo Domingo and Derek Blasberg. In a feature on AD, she revealed her signature approach to holiday tablescapes—combining sophistication, whimsy, and Southern charm.
- Balance Sophistication with Irreverence
Gardner insists that even luxurious tables should include a playful twist to keep guests engaged. She scatters seasonal citrus (like lemons, kumquats, and oranges) casually across the table to add color and help guests feel more relaxed (turn0search0). She particularly avoids strict reds and greens in favor of versatile palettes—orange and pink-on-heavy toile linens look festive yet refined .
Her signature style is what she calls matchimalism: layering matching tablecloths, cushions, lamps, and pillows in bold prints to create immersive designs.
- Illuminate with Flattering Candlelight
Lighting sets the mood. Gardner recommends avoiding harsh overhead fixtures, instead favoring multiple pools of candlelight in a variety of holders and heights (turn0search0, turn0search6). She even uses pink-toned bulbs, calling it “environmental flattering”—intended to make guests feel beautiful and uplifted.
- Layers, Layers, Layers
Her tables are built with layers of textures: crisp linens, glassware, silver, china, and bold floral candlesticks. The result? A visually lush, expressive tablescape that feels full of personality and surprise .
Add a sprinkle of bonbons or sugared gummies to unexpected pockets for delightful accents that feel whimsical—not kitschy .
- Entertaining with Elements of Surprise
Derived from her Southern hospitality tradition, Gardner believes dinner is more than food—it’s a lived moment of connection. She often includes playful elements like marbled paper party crackers filled with jewelry, costume crowns, or card prompts for surprise games (“Would you rather…?”). These help the evening flow into fun and participatory moments.
She says one memorable party ended in a peony-petal sing-along to Paul Simon’s Graceland, emphasizing that true hosting lingers in the heart .
- Meticulous Planning, Stress-Free Execution
Gardner plans every detail in advance—complete with place-card layouts, napkin fold images, garnish shots, and timing. Prior preparation means she can relax with a glass of wine when guests arrive—making hospitality feel effortless .
Designer’s Do’s & Don’ts
Do use your everyday good china and linens—even on a weekday!
Don’t be overly matchy—embrace layered textures and mixed prints for depth.
Do scatter seasonal fruit for color and accessible cheer.
Don’t rely on holiday-specific items only brought out once a year—stick with versatile elegance.
Do layer candlelight at different heights—for drama and softness.
Don’t use matte gold flatware unless extraordinarily high‑end—Gardner calls that a Pinterest nightmare.
What Makes Her Tables Beautiful and Effective
Visual richness balanced with ease—an abundance of detail that feels natural, not forced.
Playful flourishes—candies, crackers, or unexpected objects create delight.
Comfort-first hosting—from lighting to pace, the guest experience comes first.
Memorable rituals—gentle surprises or communal activities linger beyond dessert.
Final Thought
Rebecca Gardner’s belief that entertainment is a performance of hospitality shines through her tablescape philosophy. Mixing effortless charm, layered design, glowing light, and playful details, she creates immersive settings that spark conversation, laughter, and wonder.
