Aisling Leonard of Ash Leonard Design
Whether it’s a winter soirée, Christmas with the family or a Hanukkah bash, how you set the table can set the mood for your event. Aisling Leonard of Ash Leonard Design has designed rooms, tables and even the menus for party perfection. Here are some of her best tips!
When designing a tablescape, is it most important to match the room, the occasion or the meal?
There are many things to take into consideration when designing a dinner party or event. The overall theme is key; whether it will be formal or informal sets the tone for the overall design. Once that is decided, I work on the color scheme, taking into consideration the space the event will be taking place. It is very important to figure out the flow and the movement of the guests, along with whether it will be silver service or self-serve buffet style. This dictates the size of the table and seating and space planning.
How many supplies do you bring compared to what clients provide?
Each project is different and I work closely with all my clients to see if they have platters, tableware and glasses that we can use. It’s always nice to finally get to use the fancy china and silverware or platters and heirlooms from grandparents. It raises the bar for the occasion and makes it feel so much more personal than rentals. If, however, a client does not have enough pieces that will work with the overall scheme or vision, I pretty much supply everything!
When using multiple tables for hosting, how do you differentiate the main table display from where guests eat?
I always incorporate the theme across all areas, keeping the design and feel of the event cohesive, but there will always be a wow factor for the main table. The whole design tends to be a surprise for the host too, which is fun as they trust me with delivering and designing the overall vision.
When using the table as a charcuterie board, what types of food work best?
Solid foods that won’t drip or melt! Some dips are OK, and this depends on the size of the party, too. I find that using small bite-sized pieces work best and having small plates with mini pick up cutlery are useful too. It’s so important to have a wide range of textures and shapes to make the board visually appetizing.
We’re ready to set our tables!
I am fully booked for 2022 but taking bookings for 2023. The cost of creating dinners or events varies depending on scale and scope of each project, and I work with all of my clients to figure out the best way to create a package for them.