⚡️SHOP SMALL FLASH SALE⚡️Support independent brands doing things differently. Up to 40% off, April 25-30! FIND SOMETHING UNIQUE
MINNA founder and creative director Sara Berks believes in creating beautiful, ethically made products and using business to do good. Sara founded the New York–based brand in 2013, naming it after her maternal grandmother. The collection of table linens, pillows, blankets, and beyond is made in partnership with master artisans in Central and South America, ensuring craft preservation and job creation in these regions. Every business decision at MINNA is made with the well-being of people and the planet at the forefront, whether that's in choosing materials or manufacturing processes.
In addition to being ethical, MINNA's wares are also really, really beautiful (and versatile!). Seeing as it's the season for sitting around a table with the ones you love, we talked to Sara about creating fun, balanced tablescapes for your next gathering. Read on for all her expert advice.
What are the elements of setting a table?
Honestly, I don’t know the formal rules for setting a table—I just do what looks good to me! I’ll start with a runner or placemats to ground everything and then layer on napkins, maybe folding them in a fun way or just draping them casually. Sometimes I’ll add a tablecloth if I want a more polished or cohesive look, but other times I skip it entirely to focus on a runner.
As for keeping the table always set? It really depends on your space. At home, we have a dining room table that usually has a runner and some candles on it. We also have a breakfast nook that we keep placemats on, mostly because I like the feel of it. Whenever we sit down for a meal, we’ll grab from our assortment of napkins.
My Home Go-to's:
Placemats
Table Runner
Every color of our Meridian Napkins (to mix and match)
Stacks Napkins
How do you mix patterns and textures for a tablescape?
Mixing patterns and textures is all about having fun and not overthinking it. I design our table collection to be able to easily mix and match. Every piece can be "friends" with lots of other styles in the collection. My best recommendation is to start with one piece you know you love, and then layer in accent colors. We also have plenty of styles that can work to create a monochromatic look if that’s your thing.
What makes a good centerpiece, and what doesn’t?
A good centerpiece is one that doesn’t get in the way! My default is a cluster of candlesticks and small vases with flowers, or a bowl of fruit that’s in season. Currently, we have an assortment of small gourds on the table with our usual candlesticks.
What doesn’t work? Anything too tall or fussy. If your guests can’t see each other or pass things across the table, you probably need to scale back. After all, it’s about the people at the table.
If someone were to invest in only one type of table linen, what would you recommend?
Napkins, 100 percent. They’re an easy way to make the table feel special without much effort. I like to mix and match patterns or colors depending on the mood, but even the simplest napkin can add a thoughtful touch. Plus, they’re functional and reusable, which I love. You can use them daily or pull them out when the moment calls for it. Either way, they’re always worth it.
What’s your best advice for hosting guests for a dinner party?
Don’t stress too much! Set the table beforehand so you don’t have to worry about it while cooking. Keep it simple. Honestly, ask for help too! Have friends bring wine or dessert. And have fun—they are your friends, after all.
