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For the New York elite, the great migration out east is upon us, so consider this a sign to get your social calendar in order. Outside of the hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle, the Hamptons ASMR experience — the satisfying aroma of freshly cut grass, the tranquil sounds of nature’s melody, and the coetaneous feel of the sunshine’s warmth and a cool seaside breeze — allows one to entertain with an atmospheric ease that provides a refreshing contrast to cosmopolitan fussiness. But don’t get too comfortable; a semi-intimate summer soirée still requires a degree of effortless showmanship with refined elegance.
Let’s begin with curating the ideal guest list. “It’s important to invite the right mix of eclectic and comfortable guests,” says John Meadow, founder and CEO of LDV Hospitality, who’s gearing up for the June reopening of The Maidstone Hotel, the iconic 150-year-old East Hampton compound. “Everyone should be able to connect with someone new while having the comfort of a familiar face other than the host.” Rebecca Hessel Cohen, founder and creative director of LoveShackFancy, also echoed Meadow’s thoughts to WWD that seating assignments are key to ensure conversation continues to flow like wine. Personalized place settings offer a special touch of formality and comfort for guests to take a seat without question.
Last summer, Hessel Cohen’s 10th anniversary party for her lifestyle brand at her Sagaponack residence was a triumphant success, as the enchanting, dreamy tablescape and decor not only reflected her own maximalist romantic aesthetic with floral linens, candelabras galore and an abundance of flower arrangements, but it also complemented her home’s wildlife garden landscape that could have been plucked straight from a fairy tale (much like the experience of shopping at her boutique on Madison Street). According to our experts, leaning into your personal aesthetic, as well as the design of your home, is an entertaining must for creating a signature and authentic setting.
“I am endlessly inspired by the season and my surroundings, so I always look to incorporate something from the natural world into my tablescape,” says Athena Calderone, CEO of lifestyle brand Eyeswoon, interior designer, as well as a bestselling author, chef and entertaining expert. “Summer is all about ease, so I will often set the table with clippings from my garden, and ingredients from the menu will often make their way into the decor, too.” Calderone’s Amagansett beach house features a minimalist design aesthetic with character in its mix of textural details that creates a warm and inviting setting, enveloped by lush greenery.
Beyond the blooms, copious amounts of wine, great music, and mood lighting with strategically placed candles and garden lanterns, our Hamptons hosts also emphasize family-style dining for summer shindigs. “My motto has always been to amplify a more casual style of gathering so that people can mingle, chat, laugh, connect, and most importantly, nosh. I love a beautifully abundant family-style meal and casual self-service station because it encourages more connection,” says Calderone.
As for the lucky guests who secured the exclusive invite, experts say that giving your guests a little something special to take home also wraps up the spectacular evening in a bow. Both party favors for attendees and gifts for the gracious host can range from beautiful serveware to personalized table linens to artisanal treats. Diptyque’s new Citronelle candle that you can pick up at the brand’s boutique in East Hampton or one of Aerin’s stunning decanters at the Southampton store are fine choices for any celebration.
Miles away from the great metropolis, a flawless summer soirée will create unforgettable memories that last far beyond the season — and be well remembered in thoughtful gifts of gratitude.
