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Table Talk: Intimate Gathering with Brigette Romanek





À Table: An Intimate Gathering With Brigette Romanek



À Table: An Intimate Gathering With Brigette Romanek

a-table-brigette-romanek

When the holiday season calls for a gathering, it’s not just about the food – it’s about the whole experience. Brigette Romanek, the interior designer with a taste for elegant yet relaxed spaces, has crafted a holiday entertaining mini‑series that blends design, flavor, and community. From the first sip of aperitivo to the final bite of chocolate cake, every detail is intentional and thoughtful. Below is a step‑by‑step guide to bring Brigette’s vision into your own home.

Setting the Scene: Table Design & Atmosphere

Brigette’s philosophy is simple: “A low‑key aperitivo that evolves into an intimate dinner, a smaller table where conversation flows easily, and hearty food devoid of pretension but packed with seasonal flavor.” She approaches the table the same way she designs interiors: start with emotion, then layer texture, color, and form. The result is a warm, layered table that feels both sophisticated and welcoming.

The Table Layout & Tableware

  • Dining Table: Roly Poly table – $12,698
  • Chair: Roly Poly dining chair – $9,038
  • Rug: IKEA Svindinge rug – $30
  • Cheese Board: Permanent centerpiece for guests to pick at their leisure
  • Candle Holder: Antique candle holder – focal point of the table
  • Gravy Server: Handmade by Brigette’s daughter, Willow

For the dishware, Brigette loves mismatched dinnerware that adds a sense of cozy conviviality. Her favorites are the Ginori 1735 collection from Italy, which includes:

  • Oriente Italian dessert plate – $160
  • Oriente Italian dinner plate – $150
  • Oriente Italian soup plate – $180

Complementary glassware from Our Place adds a modern touch: knife trio – $109.

Décor Details & Layering

Brigette layers the table with a mix of high‑end and affordable pieces. She starts with emotion, then adds texture, color, and form. A few key touches:

  • Sheepskin mats on chairs: Warm, cozy, and tactile.
  • Antique candle holder & gravy server: Creates a focal point.
  • Lavender sprigs & wild greenery: Adds fragrance and dimension.
  • Hand‑written note & napkin rings: Personal touches that whisper “I thought of you.”

The Menu: From Aperitivo to Dessert

Brigette’s menu is designed to be generous yet uncomplicated. It’s a balanced mix of roasted, aromatic, bright, crunchy, and homey dishes that lean into seasonal produce.

Appetizer & Aperitivo

  • Winter Citrus Aperitivo: Fresh citrus, herbs, and a splash of sparkling wine.
  • Preparation Tip: Make the aperitivo 2 hours ahead so the flavors meld.

Recipe & Preparation Tips

1. Whisk a citrus‑herb vinaigrette. 2. Chill in the fridge. 3. Serve over a small cheese board.

Main Course

  • Roasted potatoes & filet: A hearty soup with a large crusty bread.
  • Preparation Tip: Roast potatoes in a sheet pan while the soup simmers.

Recipe & Preparation Tips

1. Roast potatoes until golden. 2. Simmer soup with herbs. 3. Serve with a glass of cabernet.

Dessert & Drinks Station

  • Chocolate cake & ice cream: Sweet finish to the meal.
  • Signature cocktail: Citrus‑herb cocktail with a gorgeous garnish.

Cocktail & Wine

Brigette recommends a “Batch‑Friendly” cocktail: Golden Citrus Fizz – a mix of fresh citrus, fresh herbs, and a splash of sparkling wine, garnished with a sprig of lavender. Wine: a smooth cabernet that pairs well with the hearty main.

Guest List & Timeline

Curating the Guest List

Brigette curates her guest list like a living room: varied textures, complementary personalities, and good energy. A balanced mix of storytellers, listeners, creatives, and thinkers creates a lively atmosphere.

Timeline of the Evening

  • 6:00 pm – Guest arrival & welcome drinks
  • 6:30 pm – Aperitivo served
  • 7:15 pm – Main course & wine served
  • 8:00 pm – Dessert & cocktail served
  • 9:00 pm – Closing toast & community chat

Hosting Tips & Final Touches

Checklist

  • Check tableware & décor 1 week before
  • Prepare aperitivo 2 hrs ahead
  • Keep wine chilled in a cooler
  • Set a bar counter for the cocktail station
  • Place lavender sprigs & greenery on the table

Final Touches

  • Candlelight: Light the antique candle holder and add a soft glow.
  • Napkin rings: Add a personal touch with a handwritten note.
  • Music: Soft background playlist (Brigette’s favorite: “Winter Hymn” by John Doe).

Closing Thoughts

Brigette’s holiday entertaining mini‑series shows that the best gatherings are built on emotion, texture, and community. By following her guide, you’ll create a warm, layered dinner party that feels both sophisticated and inviting. The key is to stay organized, stay relaxed, and most importantly, enjoy every moment.

Suggestion:
Negril, Jamaica: Beach & Cultural Getaway