The Hydrangea Table With Hester & Cook

The "problem" with working with the Hester & Cook hydrangea paper goods is that there are countless ways to use and style the pieces. Their hydrangea paper collection is a staple in their inventory, and it's by far one of my favorites. And when they introduced their new bamboo lattice table runner this summer, I decided to lean-into the bamboo details as well. Green and brown are one of my favor color combinations, so this table was an absolute dream to put tougher. To make it easy for you to shop, everything used on this table from Hester & Cook (which is pretty much everything) can be found here.

I love a layered table, and as I've said before, I also love mixing paper products with non-paper pieces. Once I decided to use bamboo accents with the hydrangea pieces, I immediately pulled Hester & Cook's bamboo-rimmed dinnerware by Juliska. I used my own bamboo-handled flatware (from my collection at Dillards), which paired perfectly with the bamboo lattice table runner. The bamboo lattice pattern also comes in table cards, placemats and napkins, so you can lean-into the bamboo theme even more if your heart desires. For the cherry-on-top, I included my rattan mini-garden lamps from Varnish Collection. The natural elements are perfect for outdoor entertaining and bring warm welcome tones to the table.

There's nothing better (IMO) than personalized menu cards and place cards. What's great about these table cards, is that they can be used as menu cards or can be placed under flatware for added decor in lieu of a napkin (allowing you to put the napkin under the plate). I used the large green and blue hydrangea flower placemat under the dinnerware, but I've also used multiple placemats overlapping down the center of a table to create my own runner. They help fill space and bring color and dimension to the center of a boring tabletop when needed. I've also used Hester & Cook's free-standing place cards (seen above) on a buffet table to label food items, which is a great way to add decor and detail to a buffet. The versatility of Hester & Cook's paper pieces is one of the many things I love about them!

One thing I almost never compromise on when setting a table or hosting a bar, is the glassware. A special glass makes people feel special, even if it's just used to serve water. Our signature cocktail for this tablescape is peach-colored, and it looks so pretty when served in this Hester & Cook sage-colored Rialto coupe. I've started collecting these glasses in many colors, as they are such a fun addition to any table or bar. Before signing off, I must also mention my dress, which coordinates with this fabulous table and is from Sue Sartor. I've enjoyed ending my summer entertaining blog posts with Hester & Cook with a special cocktail recipe and party playlist, which you can find below. Cheers to late-summer soirees with beautiful tables, festive cocktails and mood-setting music!

"Peach Basil Fizz"

Ingredients: 1/2 oz Bang Candy Peach Basil Syrup, 2 Dashes of Peach Bitters, 4 oz Brut Champagne & Basil Leaves for Garnish (makes two cocktails)

Directions: Start by pouring the Bang Candy Peach Basil Syrup and bitters into your champagne or coupe glasses then top off each glass with the champagne. Add in the basil leaf for a garnish and you're ready to enjoy a delicious and easy summer cocktail!

Summer Brunch Playlist

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7hrMfvWttKzzAmhFnrSFuq?si=66335653a216498d&nd=1