The Perfect Table
for Summer

Dressing the table is a fundamental part of the process. As Dorothy Draper wisely said in Entertaining is Fun, "the fun begins the moment you invite your guests." The next step is to rummage through the cupboards looking for decorative details to dress your table, like a vintage tablecloth bought at a flea market with napkins that match or don’t match, new or old, flower prints or checks: anything goes! Lay plates bought from Andrés Serrano in Calle Carnero at the Rastro flea market, a complete set or mismatched dishes, and add some modern cutlery with a vintage feel from Ofelia and tinted glasses from my friends at Atípica. Finally, set out plenty of candles for soft, intimate lighting and several vases of different sizes with wildflower arrangements.

Now it’s time to choose between a buffet-style or sit-down dinner, depending on the formality of the occasion. Baskets with different types and varieties of bread—there’s no accounting for taste! Cheese and cold cut platters, and two big salad bowls. Mallorcan blown-glass water pitchers and earthenware jugs for vichyssoise and gazpacho, which you can serve in glasses to avoid the hassle of spoons, bowls and plates (if it’s a buffet). If it’s a sit-down affair, it looks neater if everyone has their own bowl and spoon, but don’t worry if you haven’t got enough: just mix and match! You can also use the beautiful dishware from Los Platos de Pan or the Vimbi Vimbi artisans, a great way to dazzle your guests with an original, colourful spread while also supporting artists and craftspeople.