design scents

Entertaining is in full bloom, and books abound with place settings that deliver a new sizzle to summer

- KRISSA ROSSBUND

A gathering is often rooted in traditions or a springboard for those to come. This season, a library of books bestows a trove of ideas to host both graciously and beautifully, nudging entertaining enthusiasts to exchange late-night social media scrolls for a dive into glossy pages for inspiration. Two titles-Together at the Table (Abrams, $50) by Juliska founders Capucine De Wulf Gooding and David Gooding and Full Bloom (Vendome Press, $45) by illustrator Cathy Graham-invite nature, summer's most requested guest, to guide imaginations.

We couldn't help but notice the colorful flowers that bloom among the pages, not to mention lush greens that validate the purpose of a spring rainstorm. So much, that we were eager to fashion our own settings with nature as a key component. For your summer gatherings, consider the magic of the floral mix for a sit-down that's destined for treasured memories.

Opposite Jan Showers for Kravet Couture “Fiorella” linen, floral-print fabric in Coral. Kim Seybert “Bevel” place mat with blush-color glass and acrylic beads, “Ophelia” tulip-shape stemmed wineglass in Blush, and “Dip Dye” blush ombré linen napkin with gold trim border. Replacements Vintage pierced dinner plate and yellow tumbler. Hudson Grace “Scalloped” Italian-ceramic salad plate and “Champagne” flatware with vintage matte finish. Left Fabricut “Radish Root” printed cotton in Water Lily. Kim