The Fragrant Table 

I made up this concept. No joke.

I just decided to say it out loud and give it a fancy name.

I have done this for years. It’s how I host. I believe a space should feel like something before it looks like something. The Fragrant Table is the art of setting a mood before a single word is even spoken. For me, it always starts with intention. The table, the light, the air, and the feeling. The experience is equally as important as the presentation. And thoughtful layering is what pulls that atmosphere together.

I live by candlelight. Truly. A candle is more than light. It lowers the volume of the room and creates intimacy while using minimal effort. It signals an invitation to gather around it. And it knows you will. A candle knows exactly what it's meant to do; it just lights up and the room adjusts. It’s a bit arrogant like that.

Fragrance works on a sneaky deeper level too. It moves through a space settling into the air and emotion around it. When my guests arrive, fragrance greets them first. And when they say, “It smells so good in here", I know it has done exactly what it was meant to. When layered intentionally, fragrance never overwhelms—it just supports. It helps complete the experience.

The Fragrant Table sets the emotional tone before the first plate is served. It’s not just about the actual table with dishes and silverware. It’s about how the room feels when everyone settles in.  Mood is built in layers; the glow of candlelight, the balance of scent, the quiet luxury of a space that feels considered rather than just styled. These elements work together to create an atmosphere where presence is what you are serving.

And that’s the type of table I want people to remember. A fragrant memorable one -- where light, mood and intention meet. That table becomes more than a place to eat.

It becomes a place to belong.