Whether hosting dinner parties for clients or entertaining at home, the process of visualizing and laying out the table has always been the most enchanting part of my work.

The simple act of setting a place at the table for someone is an invitation to slow down, savor the moment and connect deeply. And it fills me with gratitude and warmth. Especially this past year, setting the table for my family helped us to intentionally carve out time to reconnect with love after the strangeness or upheaval of any given day during the pandemic.

I consider setting the table an act of love, for myself as much as for those who will be joining me. Here are some ideas to consider as you set yours!

• 1. Start by asking yourself “what will be my centerpiece?”: candles / flowers / platters of food or fruit. Small details can add to the mood and enjoyment of the meal.

• 2. Tablecloth or place mats? I like using place mats during the week and a cloth on the weekends. Cloths evoke memories of lingering and make a table feel “cozier.”

• 3. Set out everything you might need so that the flow of conversation and eating isn’t interrupted by someone getting up.

• 4. If you are the cook, ask the kids or spouse or a guest for help once you have decided on the centerpiece.