Many years ago, a dear friend observed, "it doesn't matter whether we are using china or paper plates.... you just have 'table karma'." It was one of the loveliest -- and most empowering -- compliments that I had ever received.
I grew up in a family where there was always more room at the table, metaphorically. It was common to have dinner parties, whether at the last minute or for 40 seated guests. My mother is a talented cook, who entertains graciously, with ease and efficiency. Her recipes and entertaining philosophy have been featured in newspapers over the years and my brothers and I learned a lot from her example.
My Grandma Dorothy was a superb cook too, blessed with amazing style -- and an incredible trove of china and silver. Interestingly, my father's mother did not even cook (she kept cereal boxes in her oven). Yet, she, too, loved linens, china, silver and, most importantly, welcoming people into her home. Her house was always filed with friends. She exemplified that the most important ingredient in any gathering is a love of people and a desire to make them happy while they are under your roof.
Table karma is dedicated to these wonderful mothers who instilled in us so much joy and connection through the art of entertaining. It is also dedicated to the next generation. I hope our family philosophy will help another generation weave entertaining into the fabric of our modern lives. The goal is participation, not perfection. It's all a state of mind.