Spring Awakening

Scenic wallpaper, rattan blinds and a round table create a welcoming setting. A Mandarin Satsuma tree and gardenias further enhance the garden-like atmosphere.

A well-stocked, self-serve bar is key, says Mathison Glenn.

A well-stocked, self-serve bar is key, says Mathison Glenn.

Signature cocktails spark conversation and kick off a great party.

Layers of patterns and colors dazzle the eye, including monogrammed napkins and tortoise shell flatware.

Designer Mallory Mathison Glenn is a storied entertainer with a penchant for antique china and patterned table skirts.

A jade green Foo dog and hand-painted place cards make the table memorable.

AH&L: Tell us about your Spring Awakening Ladies Lunch.

Mallory Mathison Glenn: After the past year, we’re ready to safely gather again with friends. This luncheon is about filling the table with artistry and color and filling the room with laughter and inspiration.

AH&L: What are some elements of entertaining friends for a luncheon service that might be different from the way you would organize a sit-down dinner?

MMG: I love a self-serve bar. While a fully stocked bar is perfect for evening, I prefer to keep things lighter at lunch and offer one signature cocktail. My current favorite is grapefruit juice, vodka and a sprig of rosemary.

AH&L: Share your secrets on how to mix contemporary and traditional elements, yet still maintain layers of interest.

MMG: Interlacing opposing elements create an engaging interior and tabletop. The unexpected mix of contemporary and traditional; old and new; provincial and polished, creates an exciting narrative and makes a table interesting with the different textures, colors and periods. When mixing antique furniture with newer pieces, color can be a great unifying element. Be bold. Create an inventory and don’t be afraid!

AH&L: You’re a master of mixing pattern and color. How can we make our rooms more chameleon-like with updated elements?

MMG: A round table is fabulous because I can change the look with table skirts. I prefer patterns on the bottom so I can add solid toppers for fresh looks. Slipcovers on chairs are another wonderful way to add pattern, color and contrast and they’re equally easy to change for various parties.

AH&L: Where did you find your beautiful place cards?

MMG: My mother, Monteigne Mathison, is an artist who painted the miniature abstracts and then wrote the names on the reverse so that the other people at the table could see them. The little glass frames add a personal touch of art at every place setting.

AH&L: Do you always use flowers and greenery?

MMG: I love to use trees inside, and when they’re lifted off of the floor, they create an atmosphere that makes guests feel as though they’ve been transported into a garden. Beautiful flowers and scenic wallpaper really enhance the invitation to join the party.

AH&L: You have a butler’s pantry: the envy of every entertainer! What do you find most useful about having this space?

MMG: Collecting is my passion. The butler’s pantry affords plenty of storage space for vintage china, pitchers and glassware. I designed the glass cabinet doors so that I can easily see my pieces. The room isn’t large, but it can accommodate a settee, making it my favorite quiet place to escape in our home.

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