Introducing... Tablescape 101

 I'm delighted to welcome Manvi Drona Hidalgo to Bright.Bazaar as a guest columnist for a new feature called 'Tablescape 101'. Manvi will be joining me on Bright.Bazaar once a month with a new, beautifully designed tablescape that she has styled. As well as inspiring visuals, Manvi will be sharing her expert tips about how to create beautiful tabletops and throw fabulous parties. Working as a Stylist and Event Designer out of Washington, DC, Manvi has previously worked for HGTV, Trump magazine, Rue, Lookout magazine and many more, so I am delighted to be welcoming Manvi to Bright.Bazaar. Be sure to look out for the first column in the series next week - I can't wait! For now, though, let's meet Manvi...

I love lots of colours but my favorites are natural, gem stone colours like turquoise and emerald. They remind me of the ocean and of how much I loved going to the beach every weekend as a child. I am also into metallics, so I'm looking forward to working them into some of the tables I design for Tablescape 101.

Each time I start a project I always look forward to the part where I get to shop for the look, especially buying the flowers. That said, what I love most about the job is seeing my vision come to life on the table. Nothing makes me happier or more at peace than when I am touching and amending accessories to create the look.

So far my career has been a great experience; one filled with so many highlights that keep me motivated. I couldn't pick just one so here are few favourite moments: when the EIC of Elle Decor Micheal Boodro told me he reads my blog to see my latest styling projects; being featured in my favourite online magazines like Rue and Matchbook, and when editors at HGTV contacted me to do some entertaining features for them. I am not good at promoting myself so when someone seeks me out because they have been following my work, I feel blessed.

Without doubt my ideal weekend would always consist of sunshine; sunshine at a luxurious beach-side getaway would be even better. Throw a spot of decorating, alfresco dining, champagne, music, wine and good friends into the mix, and that would be pretty much ideal for me.

I've been lucky enough to attend many fabulous dinner parties and the one thing that always helps to make the event special is the attention to detail. A few years ago I was invited to a dinner party at a state dinner by the Ambassador and his wife. It was a sit-down, white glove dinner for 60 and I still remember, despite the formality of the occasion, how the hosts made me feel comfortable and relaxed. The service and attention to details (personalised hand towels as place cards and favours) was impeccable. The party was in their garden on a cool, October night so they had cashmere wraps for the ladies in case they were cold - a truly a memorable night. (Images styled by Manvi.)