By Katie McNewBy Katie McNew|November 26, 2019|Lifestyle,
Native Texan Regina Garcia has owned Events gift shop (2439 Westheimer Road) since she took the helm in 2013 (it’s been a staple since 1987). Her River Oaks store not only features custom stationery, lighting, home decor, luxury crystal and glassware, and the largest collection of china in Texas, but also offers incomparable conciergelike service to its upper-end clientele—think custom-created everything from microwavable fine china for a private plane or yacht, customized handblown glass, chandeliers and gift wrap for, um, unique items (she famously wraps a client’s frozen fish fillets each year). If there’s a problem, Garcia will solve it. So, what are her tabletop tips? “Don’t fear going outside the lines,” she advises for your forthcoming holiday fest. Permission granted to mix brands, designers and collections, and “put a little passion and imagination into your holiday table.”
“Take your table to the next level and put in natural elements—these are living art!” Delivery arrangements, from $75, Avant Garden, River Oaks District
“A scented candle is a great idea—either pumpkin or fir for the holidays is perfect.” Feu de Bois indoor-outdoor candle, $350, Diptyque, River Oaks District
“Champagne stimulates all of our senses. Why not experience this in a gorgeous crystal glass?” Krug Grande Cuvée 167th Edition, $170, Houston Wine Merchant, 2646 Shepherd Drive
“The holidays are a time to get out the good china. A different pattern in a salad or dessert plate is a great way to dress up the table.” Gold Aves china collection, from $74, by Royal Crown Derby at Events; royalcrownderby.co.uk
“It’s all about color right now. The Bubbles Champagne tulip flute comes in a variety of colors.” Bubbles Champagne flute in Amethyst, $310, by Saint-Louis at Events; saint-louis.com
“Organize your table with decorative place cards. Don’t sit couples together; you want your guests to engage with someone new. ” Olive Grove die-cut place cards in natural, eight for $4.50, by Caspari at Events; casparionline.com