The art of hosting finds its most delightful expression when shared. This is the ethos behind ‘Table Mates,’ a curated series inviting creative talents to orchestrate their ideal soirées and reveal their inspirations, fostering a spirit of collaboration and shared enjoyment.
A Culinary Partnership Rooted in Seasonality
Artists Sophie Lou Jacobsen and Megumi Shauna Arai embody this collaborative approach, their friendship a testament to shared passions. Their weekly pilgrimage to the Union Square Greenmarket is more than a shopping trip; it’s a ritual of connection and culinary exploration. “We wander with our coffee, reflecting on our past week while selecting the most appealing ingredients to inspire our meals and dinner parties for the week ahead,” Arai shares. Jacobsen’s expertise in tableware curation is complemented by Arai’s intuitive menu planning, drawing directly from the freshest seasonal offerings, whether it’s the delicate notes of roasted rhubarb or the rich sweetness of caramelized pears. Their gatherings possess an effortless charm, a comfortable blend of familiarity and gentle spontaneity, with guests expected to arrive fashionably late, allowing Jacobsen ample time to perfect the tablescape.
This past March, amidst the crisp autumn air, Jacobsen and Arai opened their doors, offering a glimpse into their farm-to-table tradition, elevated by charming ‘cabbageware’ and the company of cherished friends. Explore their hosting philosophy and discover the curated elements that define their tables.
Bordallo Pinheiro Cabbage Dinner Plates (Set of 4)
Williams Sonoma
Nina Rose Tablecloth by Lisa Corti
Lisa Corti
Centerpiece Bowl by Sophie Lou Jacobsen
Sophie Lou Jacobsen
Bordallo Pinheiro Cabbage Salad Plates (Set of 4)
Williams Sonoma
The Culinary Canvas
Megumi Shauna Arai: Our ‘Tart Club’ tradition is a cherished ritual, but for this gathering, I envisioned a starter of radishes with butter, a nod to Soph’s signature touch. We both have a shared love for seafood, and the debate over the ultimate cacio e pepe is ongoing.
Sophie Lou Jacobsen: Our perfect dinner unfolds on a Saturday evening, following our market haul from Union Square. The menu is a celebration of the season:
- To commence: An assortment of fine cheeses and crackers, artisanal potato chips, and the simple elegance of radishes with butter and sea salt.
- The centerpiece: Freshly caught fish with market-fresh vegetables, or a comforting rendition of cacio e pepe.
- A vibrant, large salad.
- For dessert: A seasonal tart – apple, pear, peach, fig… whatever the market offers at its peak. Accompanied by house-made ice cream or Megumi’s exquisite chocolate mousse.
Hosting Etiquette: A Shared Sentiment
Sophie Lou Jacobsen: My primary hosting pet peeve is punctuality; guests who arrive precisely on time.
Megumi Shauna Arai: [Laughs] I wholeheartedly concur.
Sabre Bistro Flatware (Set of 5)
Hudson Grace
Porta Bestia Serving Set
Porta
Double Stem Spiral Candleholder by Sophie Lou Jacobsen
Hawkins New York
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Sophie Lou Jacobsen
Glass Family Goblets (Set of 4) by Jasper Morrison
Alessi
The Perfect Host(ess) Gift
Sophie Lou Jacobsen: A thoughtful gesture such as a fine bottle of wine, artisanal bread, quality cheese, or a luxurious kitchen staple like premium olive oil.
Megumi Shauna Arai: A warm smile and an offer of assistance with the post-event cleanup.
The Heart of the Table
Sophie Lou Jacobsen: The guests themselves are paramount. An ideal gathering comprises a dynamic mix of individuals, where familiar faces are balanced with new acquaintances, fostering an environment ripe for connection and laughter.
Megumi Shauna Arai: Absolutely, the people define the experience. Even a simple meal can be extraordinary when shared with guests who possess curiosity, genuine interest in one another, generosity of spirit, and a shared joy in companionship.
Seating Arrangements: An Organic Approach
Sophie Lou Jacobsen: For intimate gatherings, I believe guests naturally gravitate towards seating that fosters comfort and conversation, creating the most harmonious arrangement.
Megumi Shauna Arai: While I may occasionally engineer moments of delightful awkwardness for long-term social benefit, my strategy is generally to encourage interaction. Early in the evening, I might playfully challenge guests: “If everyone doesn’t connect with at least one person they don’t know, I’ll be disappointed. Now, mingle!”
The Sonic Landscape
Sophie Lou Jacobsen: The playlist is curated with artists such as Andrew Cyrille, Frank Lowe Quintet, Pharoah Sanders, Milford Graves, Don Cherry, Fred Anderson, and Hamid Drake.
Serving Style: Communal or Individual?
Megumi Shauna Arai: Family style, unequivocally!
Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron Round Dutch Oven
Williams Sonoma
Le Petit Verre Glasses (Set of 4) by Sophie Lou Jacobsen
Sophie Lou Jacobsen
Suzette Will Zephyr Napkins (Set of 4)
Collyer’s Mansion
Sauciere by Sophie Lou Jacobsen
Sophie Lou Jacobsen
Effortless Entertaining
Sophie Lou Jacobsen: The key is meticulous preparation. Ensure as much as possible is completed in advance to allow for genuine engagement with guests, rather than being confined to the kitchen.
Megumi Shauna Arai: I thrive on movement! A constant flow between mingling and attending to details is my approach.
A Signature Sip
Sophie Lou Jacobsen: We begin with an aperitif of mini martinis, transitioning to wines thoughtfully brought by our guests.
Megumi Shauna Arai: Abundant sparkling water is always on hand.
The Aftermath: A Celebration Continues
Sophie Lou Jacobsen: The evening concludes with lingering conversations over digestifs and music in the living room.
Megumi Shauna Arai: Dancing is essential!
The Final Touches: Tidiness and Camaraderie
Sophie Lou Jacobsen: Dishes are handled promptly, that same night, without fail.
Megumi Shauna Arai: While we will certainly address them if necessary, the ideal scenario involves a shared late-night cleanup ritual with lingering guests, turning a chore into a final convivial moment.
Platter by Shane Gabier
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Sophie Lou Jacobsen Tulip Wine Glass (Set of 4)
Sophie Lou Jacobsen
Bordallo Pinheiro Cabbage Dinner Plates
Williams Sonoma
Sophie Lou Jacobsen Squiggle Pitcher
Design Within Reach
Business Style Takeaway: This approach to hosting, centered on authentic collaboration and the appreciation of seasonal ingredients, cultivates an environment of genuine connection. The curated selection of artisanal tableware and decor further elevates the experience, transforming a simple gathering into a statement of refined personal style and effortless luxury.
Source: : www.architecturaldigest.com