I'm very informal with parties at my house — it sets a fun tone. My style is rustic, simple, and playful, especially here in urban San Francisco. Have a good time; don't take yourself too seriously!
You can change the look of a dining space fast with colorful stools ($29, ikea.com). I love using furniture to pick up the colors in a painting or other artwork. I often use things I already have around the house to decorate. Velvet ribbon is a great stand-in for a formal table runner! ($2 per yard, mjtrim.com) Hanging air plants add greenery without taking up valuable space on the tabletop.
Putting a little cactus or succulent in a copper tube cap makes a cute gift. I always try to send guests home with something at the end of the night. ($6, homedepot.com)
This story originally appeared in the May 2016 issue of House Beautiful.
