Turning Tables

See how one expert entertaining content creator practices her craft and business.

- Kelly McMaster

With the flurry ofcelebratory gatherings that come with the holiday season behind us, you may feel at a loss over what to do with your dining table between now and the arrival of the next season. We asked Jennifer Carroll Martin, author and blogger at Celebrating Everyday Life, for her expert tips and ideas for creating a cozy winter tablescape that can take you from New Year's Eve up to Valentine's Day!

American Farmhouse Style: When did your interest in table styling begin?

Jennifer: My interest in table styling stems from my lifelong passion for creating beautiful, welcoming spaces that make people feel special. Ever since my first Easy Bake Oven with a Barbie and teddy bear tea party, I have always loved hosting and celebrating. As I grew up, I found myself naturally drawn to the art of setting a table—not just as a practical task, but as an opportunity to infuse joy and personality into gatherings. Over the years, this interest grew alongside my career in styling and entertaining, where I've had the privilege of sharing my ideas through various magazines like and writing Harry Potter: Feasts & Festivities: An Official Book of Magical Celebrations, Crafts, and Party Food Inspired by the Wizarding World, published in March 2022. Table styling has become a creative outlet that allows me to connect my love of design with my deep belief in the power of hospitality.

AFS: What do you call this cozy tablescape and what were your inspirations?