Beth is a jewelry and accessories designer and mom of two living in Darien, Connecticut. Beth started Beth Ladd Collections while working in Interior Design in NYC. She now works closely with six artisan groups in India to produce her designs. Everything is handmade by artisans – from earrings to monogrammed bags, tabletop pieces, and more.
How do you like to entertain? What is the vibe (where, feeling, how)? Nothing can transport me back to my childhood like a backyard barbeque! Casual, easy and carefree with kids running in the grass and adults sipping on cocktails and wine. It’s just the best. Don’t get me wrong – I love to host anytime, but there’s just something special about being outdoors with good food, good drinks and good people.
What are you serving? If hosting in the summer, I like to keep it light – maybe fish tacos, salad and a couple of interesting sides. I live in New England but am from the South, so I always like to throw in a little southern flair like pimento cheese or country ham biscuits.
What are you sipping? My husband is the cocktail-maker, so he will usually whip up some fun cocktails and we always have more than enough wine to go around. We pre-made cocktails in a huge mason jar for our last party and it was such a big hit!
What are you wearing? Usually a long, flowy dress. Something comfortable but cute at the same time.
What are you listening to? I like to start with a mix of oldies, country and a little pop. Usually as the night progresses, we switch to 90s hip hop. Sometimes we start with 90s hip hop… that’s when you know the shots will come out later!
How do you make your guests feel special? How do you make them feel at home? We always try to welcome our guests with a drink and make sure to have a beverage tub filled with wine, beer and some non-alcoholic options. We like to have some appetizers out upon arrival as well. Our guests should never have to ask for drinks or food – everything should be out and ready for them to take as they please!
If you are hosting a dinner, what is your go-to centerpiece? Flowers – but nothing too fancy. I love the art of tablescaping and mixing old (vintage or antique) pieces with new, so I usually focus on that first and then build the centerpiece around it at the end.
How do you end a celebration? Dessert, drinks, 90s hip hop and – party trick – warming up a Chick-Fil-A nugget platter late night never disappoints!
What is your favorite Half Past Seven product to entertain with? I’m in love with the Starry Night Rocks Glasses – they are perfect for every occasion!
Let’s play this or that…
- Charger OR Placemat: Placemat
- Stemmed OR Stem-less: Stemmed inside and stemless outside
- Red OR White: White in the summer, red in the winter
- Tablecloth OR Bare: Tablecloth – more is more in my book!
- Votives OR Taper Candle: A mix... can’t have too many!
- Formal OR Informal: Both, but in reality, informal
