Tabletop experts coming to Atlanta to mix and mingle design

By Katie Leslie

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Geoffrey Ross may be in the business of luxury, but he doesn’t believe you need the finest for an upscale look.

“I don’t think you need to even buy things for the biggest impact — there are interesting things around your house that can add wonderful charm,” said the co-owner of Dransfield & Ross, a high-end bedding, home accessories and tabletop design wholesaler.

For example, use colorful tomato cans for vases, a type of re-purposing that is as cute as it is affordable.

“It’s not just about how much money you spend — it’s how you approach it.”

The New York-based designer is coming to home boutique Mrs. Howard on Thursday and Friday to host guests at a tabletop event, a shopping fête to which customers can bring their own china, linens and crystal to potentially pair with new items.

Ross says Southerners reign supreme when it comes to entertaining.

“There is definitely a regional difference, and the South wins,” he said, laughing. “People who entertain in the South are definitely traditional, but with a twist. They really embrace it.”

Ross will be joined by designer Marc Blackwell at the event, a type of gathering some retailers, such as Phoebe Howard, are using to create buzz in a challenging economy.

“Phoebe does it better than all of them,” Ross said. “Because business has slowed down this year, it’s given us a time to meet with our customers. The off-economy is a mixed blessing.”

Ross said he doesn’t want people to buy for the sake of spending. He encourages people to invest in pieces they love that can make an event more memorable.

“If buying eight napkin rings is it, it seems like a simple way to have joy,” he said. “And what granddaughter wouldn’t love to dig in that treasure trove and find a beaded pagoda napkin ring?”

Meet and greet

Mingle with china, crystal and linen designers. Shoppers can bring their own materials for pattern matching. Monogramming of linens is also available. Mrs. Howard, 425 Peachtree Hills Avenue, Atlanta. Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 404-816-3830.