weekly design inspiration: curated company
At Candace Plotz Design, creating a home isn’t just about how it looks—it’s about how it feels. And few moments capture that philosophy quite like gathering with loved ones. Whether it's an intimate dinner with friends or a weekend of guests at your lakefront retreat, hosting with heart means designing moments that feel effortless, intentional, and above all—genuine.
table reverie
Before any place setting or centrepiece, start with the feeling you want to evoke. Is it cozy and fireside, breezy and barefoot, or candlelit and celebratory?
Lighting plays a starring role here—opt for warm, dimmable layers: pendants above, sconces at eye level, and plenty of flickering candles. Soft textiles such as a table runner, plush seating, and natural textures instantly set a welcoming tone. Add scent through a beautiful candle or woodsy incense—something subtle but signature.
Source: Studio McGee
Source: Pierce & Ward
setting stories
Hosting isn’t about perfection—it’s about personality and your table should reflect that. We love mixing heirloom pieces with handmade ceramics and vintage glassware. Let things feel collected, not coordinated.
Start with a grounded base--think textured linen or raw-edge cotton, layer in natural elements such as seasonal foliage or foraged branches, and introduce patina with brass candlesticks or mismatched flatware. Every piece should feel like it has a story—because it does.
Source: Salina Maria Home
Source: Stacie Flinner
gather gracefully
The most memorable gatherings aren’t the most polished—they’re the most personal. Thoughtful hosting means creating space for conversation, laughter, and spontaneity. Think about seating that encourages intimacy—benches pulled close, deep chairs that invite lingering, and vignettes where people can naturally gather.
We love to incorporate small moments of surprise—personalized place cards, handwritten menus, or a curated welcome tray for overnight guests. These don’t need to be elaborate. Just meaningful.
A beautifully set table matters—but not as much as the people around it. Hosting with heart isn’t about impressing—it’s about expressing. Your space, your story, your way of saying, “You’re welcome here.”
Source: Heather Taylor Home
Source: Studio McGee
Design Tip: think beyond aesthetics. The soundscape (your playlist), the flow of the layout, and even the materials underfoot contribute to the story you’re telling.
