Entertaining: Ladies Who Brunch
Writer Meg Fox | Photographer Jennifer Lavelle Photography | Designer Cory Connor | Location Chatham, NJ-
In this classic white kitchen with contrasting navy island base, Serena & Lily’s Riviera stools—handcrafted of lightweight rattan and easy-to-wipe-clean woven plastic—are the ideal option for extra seating at the island, designer Cory Connor says. “Not only is the color spot-on, but the material is “perfect to wipe up any messes that are inevitable in a family of six.”
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Layer up a healthy—and easy-to-take-home—parfait with yogurt, blueberries and granola.
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Hand-stitched linen napkins play up the sprinkling of high-energy orange accents.
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A vintage block print was the inspiration for the Palermo Block Print Tablecloth while the iconic Windsor-style chairs have a modern edge with their compact frame. Pillows have a tie-dyed look.
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Vista hurricanes in a crackled navy glaze bring texture to the table.
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A braided raffia placemat sets a casual tone when paired with classic blue and white china and a botanical-themed cotton napkin.
Casual designs encourage enjoyable get-togethers.
Cory Connor
Cory Connor Designs
Summit, NJ | 973-507-9941
coryconnordesigns.com
The opening of Serena & Lily’s newest retail location in Summit —the first in New Jersey—inspired designer Cory Connor to create a casual Girlfriends’ Brunch incorporating many of the inspirational lifestyle and home décor brand’s accents at a client’s home in Chatham, NJ.
“In this time of harried schedules and never having enough hours in the day,” says Connor, owner of Cory Connor Designs in Summit, NJ, she wanted to create a venue to “honor friends who help us keep it all together.” The result is a low-key casual atmosphere combining orange, aqua and navy.
Connor’s approach to any party setting:
• The best type of host is a relaxed host. Guests pick up on their host’s mood and play off of that energy. If the host is happy, fun and at ease, the guests are bound to have a fantastic time.
• Keeping the food and tabletop presentation casual yet inviting is key. Guests can focus on being with each other, not worrying whether they are using the right fork.
• White plates—my go-to—work with everything. Add color with beautiful linens, fresh fruit and bright flowers.
• Add a personal touch such as a Mason jar parfait—something fresh and filling that is easily contained for a brunch. It also encourages socializing and provides guests with a little something to take home.