Tables with a touch of love
Chemist and entrepreneur Pinky Tobiano loves to host parties. She always pulls out all the stops when it comes to welcoming her guests.
Passionate about setting the table, she’s turned her hobby into a business and founded “Table Love by Pinky” — her Instagram platform-turned-business that specializes in tablescaping.
Known for her hanging décor and whimsical and glamourous taste, Tobiano loves traditional holiday style. Here she shares with us what she loves about Christmas and some of her tips on how to make a sumptuous and festive table.
THE PHILIPPINE STAR: What do you love most about Christmas?
PINKY TOBIANO: I love Christmas as it is the season when Christ our Lord was born. It is a season of hope, love, and joy. Christmas is such a happy season for everyone.
Describe your own personal holiday style.
My holiday style is always traditional. I always go back to Christmas classics of red and gold. These also remind me of my late grandparents, who would make Christmas so memorable for all the grandchildren. My home is filled with touches of red and gold trimmings; you can find fresh pine leaves all over the home to excite all the senses.
What do you love most about creating beautiful tables?
The most important part of all my tablescapes are the memories that are behind each setup. The conversations are priceless and my guests feel so special that I have dressed up the table for them. Each table I curate is unique and bespoke. I match the accessories to the personality of my guests.
Can you share a little more about the inspiration behind these two tables? Is there a particular theme?
The inspiration of my two tables is a feeling of gratefulness to all the people around me. I love Fornasetti this holiday because of their festive tonality and I find that the eyes are bedazzling.
You are known for your hanging tablescapes; can you share a little more about how you come up with your designs?
I love creating suspended tablescapes. It adds texture and volume to the table. You complete the third dimension through aerial symmetry and design. Suspended tablescapes complete the total look of your table with added volume to perfect the look.
Is there a difference in your décor when setting up for a smaller, intimate group — let’s say four to six — and much larger settings?
For me, doing a table for two takes more creativity on my end rather than a table for 10. A table for two challenges me more on how to recreate the space and to shift the paradigm surrounding the area. Dinners for two are a joy to create, especially for my friends who are going to propose. Every detail matters, every stroke is significant and you are part of a beautiful history in their lives.
Can you share some tips on how to create a beautiful holiday tablescape at home?
Start with what type of Christmas theme you wish — is it classical, whimsical, etc.? Then choose the colors to match that theme. Is it red and gold? Perhaps all metallics? Maybe bold and vibrant colors? Find the right accessories to help create that theme.
It’s also important to think about height, volume and texture. These are the elements that allow you to create a “wow” table. Don’t forget music. Every time I tablescape, I need to play music to help set the mood and make my creative juices flow.
Finally, don’t forget a touch of love. All my tables are created out of love, and I believe it shows!
