How She Hosts: Caroline Boykin

Caroline Reehl Boykin is a fine artist based in Raleigh, North Carolina who is inspired by the spirit of everyday life. Elements of nature, architecture, and form combine in many mediums, resulting in layered works and unique color interactions that capture the viewer, bringing them into a conversation of life and movement. Through intentional use of porcelain, acrylic paint, and gold and silver leaf, Caroline delivers multi-dimensional works that transcend a subject and allow the viewer to decipher meaning.

Boykin has always loved to create. Her childhood on the Alabama coast cultivated her enchantment with art and southern culture. Touches of this admiration of Southern hospitality and grandeur are seen today through her work. A summer of studying figure drawing in Florence, Italy led Caroline to the realization that being an artist was in her bones. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Mississippi in 2005 where her focus was ceramics, but she has a true passion for all mediums in art. Caroline has been creating professionally for over 15 years. She is inspired by her everyday surroundings in Raleigh and the land she grew up amongst in rural Alabama.

Caroline's work has been published and featured in major publications including Elle Decor, Southern Living, Flower, Luxe Interiors, along with many others. Her artwork can be found in noteworthy private collections and adorning the walls of thousands of happy homes all over the US.

How do you like to entertain? What is the vibe (where, feeling, how)?

I love all ways of entertaining! Whether it’s a sit-down dinner party in our dining room, or an afternoon with kids around the pool, I just want my guest to feel as comfortable and cared for as possible. Entertaining to me is an expression of love and I want my guests to leave knowing how I feel about them. I also want them to have as much fun as possible!

What are you serving and sipping?

Certainly nothing fussy! Being a southerner, we are serving the most delicious thing possible in the prettiest way possible. We always have plenty of finger foods to start with and nibble on throughout the night. My husband loves to man the grill and a makes a strong cocktail!

What are you wearing?

A Doen or Natalie Martini shift dress with a pair of Ancient Greek Sandals

What are you listening to?

The new Morgan Wallen album

How do you make your guests feel special? How do you make them feel at home?

My husband and I try to remember our guests’ favorite things. What type of music they like, drinks they enjoyed having the last time they were over etc.

If you are hosting a dinner, what is your go-to centerpiece?

Any of my potted plants from our garden.

If you could invite 5-6 celebrity guests to dinner, who would you include?

Oh gosh! Dolly Parton, Martha Stewart, Lela Rose, Lauren Santo Domingo, and Daphne Oz. All inspiring women that I think would have much to gab about!!