Richard Lambertson and Suzanne Cassano channeled their lifelong passion for vintage finds into an exquisitely curated boutique that’s home to curiosities, antiques and décor. Privet House is a shop with a charming collection of gifts and goods—we could spend hours in both the Warren and Greenwich, Conn., stores. Over the years, Richard and Suzanne have become the ultimate hosts—dishing out expertise to party planners in need of hosting how-to’s and to partygoers in search of the perfect hostess gift.
Below, the duo share hosting tips alongside sneak peeks at their upcoming The Shops at Target collection of accents and accessories for the home, kitchen, table and garden.
Take a tour of Privet House, watch the documentary at Rue Magazine and read on for hosting tips
Candles, candles and more candles.
Light tons of candles—they set the mood, create beautiful ambience and everyone looks better in candlelight. For something different, try three and five-wick candles. They’re fun, colorful and perfect for outdoor entertaining.
Keep it casual.
Don’t be afraid to set your table with dinnerware, napkins and placemats that are “mixed and matched.” The Privet House at Target collection makes it easy—the different melamine plates and bowls are designed to coordinate with each other. And the double-faced napkins add more color and pattern to the table for a fun, casual dinner.
You don’t have to make it…just make it happen!
Your dessert can be homemade… by someone else. Buy something lovely from your favorite bakery and then put that yummy dessert on a cake pedestal, like this pretty damask melamine stand.
Don’t overthink it.
You can’t go wrong if you serve up fresh, in-season fruits and veggies. Just be sure to serve everything on chic dinnerware, like an embossed whitewashed collection.
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For the person who has everything: Gift giving is tough when your lucky friend has the newest edition of everything. A great vintage book that reflects the person’s interests or passions is very thoughtful. Wrap it up in a patterned shopping bag with color coordinating tissue.
When meeting your significant other’s family for the first time: Bring a lovely bottle of champagne* to celebrate the occasion and dress it up in this insignia burlap gift bag.
What to get the hostess: A set of four framed chalkboard place cards. They’re adorable, erasable and can be used again and again.
*You may want to have extra champagne on hand in case of emergency.
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Privet House at Target is available May 6 in stores and at Target.com.
Want more? Check out The Candy Store & follow along until The Shops puzzle is filled!

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