how to: set four unique tables

For a bright brunch, focus on cheerful colors and personalized elements. Wrapping paper makes a low-cost, high impact table cover and a travel mug doubles as a placecard. Live greens, sliced branches, and organic shapes recreate a natural habitat. Small plants can be less expensive than a fresh flower centerpiece while lasting longer—and push the envelope with eco wood bath mats as the table cover. Mix different styles, textures and period references to add interest. The labra candleholder is perfect to set the tone of this modern baroque table—especially when contrasted with angular white porcelain plates and a rich red bouquet. Mix different shapes, materials and finishes in shades of grey. It creates an urban, sophisticated look and becomes the ultimate blank canvas which can accommodate a variety of layers for a unique setting.

Thanks to stylist and photographer Bobbi Lin for setting these four tables featured at cb2.com/idea central.

watch: gifts for the host

recipe: orange sparkle punch

6 C chilled orange juice
2 C vodka
1 C sparkling soda
2 tblsp sugar
2 tblsp Grand Marnier or other orange liqueur
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground allspice
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
ice cubes
2 oranges, thinly sliced

perfect pairings: outdoor lighting

Choose the mood then choose the candlelight to provide the ambiance. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party and need tabletop lighting—make a dramatic statement with multiples of camp lanterns to create a ‘chandelier’.

For a outdoor areas with lounge seating, create a relaxed mood with ceramic lanterns in multiples.

And last, for the softest lighting, go with smart candle lights—get all the benefits of candlelight without worrying about strong breezes or clean-up.

mardi gras, 2011

Happy Fat Tuesday to all.
Eat, drink and be very merry!