I started tablescaping during the pandemic to make each meal an “event” my husband Ed and adult son Chino can look forward to every day. Besides, time was a commodity I had lots of.

I would use a lot of light fixtures like lamps, candles, lanterns. I also like experimenting with colors — a pop of color is as inviting as dessert.

After the pandemic, I continued making tables my canvas. I have no manual, but I have a concept.

My husband fondly calls me “La mesa dame” whenever I do tablescapes.

Below are some photos of a Christmas tablescape I put together. I wanted this setting to be festive but elegant. Golden hues and light from many sources anchored my table. And the cherry on the table were the red hydrangeas in porcelain bowls here and there. For tablescapes with centerpieces, I suggest a separate buffet table for the food, really is the main event. The tablescape is meant to whet the appetite.

Merry Christmas!