Social Studies - Exquisite Rentable Tablescapes

Set the Table, Set the Mood

Event company Social Studies makes it easy to create the ideal ambience at any affair.

Whether you’re hosting an intimate multi-course dinner party, a whimsical garden picnic, or a swanky soiree, setting the right mood starts with décor. If that feels daunting – (really, who has multiple genres of dishes and decorations stored away?) – don’t be deterred. The event experts at Social Studies have you covered with tone-setting style tips and shortcuts to make it all come together with ease.

First and foremost, says CEO Jessica Latham, make it fun. After all, a gathering is about connecting with people.

“The right décor creates an ambiance that fosters connection,” says Jessica, co-founder of the popular startup that has become a go-to resource for all things entertaining, including a must-read blog, “The Social”, that offers party tips, tricks and trends.

Set the Scene: DIY, or Call in the Experts

Creating that ambiance can mean curating items from your own stash or popping into the store for a few essentials, like candles. Jessica suggests placing games or intriguing pieces, like antiques, around the table to get guests talking. Subtle lighting encourages guests to relax and open up to each other, she says, and candles make for an instant mood. Greenery and flowers – from the store or your own yard – will give a fresh feel to the room. Just make sure the arrangements aren’t so tall they hinder interaction.

Or, there’s an easier way to nail décor: Social Studies’ rentable kits that include everything needed to set an Instagram-worthy table. (Think Rent the Runway, but for your table.) Garnering a cult following the company offers an array of packages with a variety of themes — from dark and romantic, to bright and airy, to eclectic and bold.

There’s The Doppio, a colorful Art Deco collection inspired by the restaurant on the Italian island of Capri where Jessica was married; Dark Nordic, which exudes a cozy, modern, moody vibe; and Secret Garden, a lush, romantic set featuring floral china and vintage flatware.

The Social Studies team frequently updates its offerings with an eye toward emerging trends, partnering with renowned fashion icons Tory Burch and La DoubleJ, as well as high-end brands like Café Appliances. Their work with Café will be on display in February at KBIS, one of the largest industry kitchen and bath shows, where the team created tablescapes, signature cocktails and even Spotify playlists to show how kitchens can showcase a unique style and personality.

“We are natural partners because we are both brands at the forefront of at-home entertaining in an elevated way,” says Jessica. “Social Studies shares the same philosophy as Café: We both give design-centric customers a range of affordable options to match their unique style without compromising on quality.”

Choose an Espresso Martini for a sophisticated after-dinner drink

Ready, Set...Party

For 2022, Jessica predicts those design-minded folks will be ready to mingle. “I think we’ll see people gravitate towards bold maximalist parties after more than a year of being cooped up,” she says.

Using a rental service like Social Studies allows entertainers to experiment with different styles, as well as being cost-effective and space-saving. And now that many items from their lines are available for purchase, you can try first, then buy later if you’re so inclined. But most importantly, the service enables hosts to connect with guests instead of stressing about decorative details.

Tablescapes – rented or your own – aren’t just for formal functions. “You don’t need a massive budget to plan a memorable event,” Jessica says. “We encourage customers to mix low-end and high-end – for example, pair one of our kits with takeout from your favorite restaurant.”

Final Thoughts: It's About Having Fun

When it comes to throwing the perfect party, Jessica reiterates that it’s about being with people. Be sure to have plenty of food and drink. Don’t try out a new recipe or wear an uncomfortable outfit. And stay relaxed (“Guests pick up on your energy,” Jessica says.)

Whether you set the table with goodies from your own home or rent them from Social Studies, remember that the vibe starts with you. So don’t stress, have fun with the people you love, and party on!

How does it work? Simple.