There is a quiet magic in setting a table that feels both thoughtfully tailored and delightfully effortless. Few know this art form better than Cheree Berry, the founder and creative mastermind behind Cheree Berry Paper & Design. Known for her signature blend of clever wit, vibrant color, and elevated craftsmanship, Cheree has taken her love for paper onto the tabletop through an exquisite new collaboration with heritage brand Lee Jofa.

The new Lee Jofa x Cheree Berry Paper Collection translates iconic archival interior patterns into luxury paper goods, place cards, and entertaining essentials. To celebrate the launch, we sat down with Cheree to chat about pattern-maxxing, seating matchmaking, and the secret formula for being a quintessential host.

Layering Patterns Without Chaos

Q: Your collections always play brilliantly with pattern. What is your golden rule for hosts who want to mix and match items without making it feel overwhelming?

Cheree Berry: Successful pattern-maxxing comes in contrasting scales—think about pairing large-scale patterns with tighter patterns. Too many patterns of the same scale are much harder to pull off unless it’s the same pattern everywhere.

Consider how color comes in as well. If you’re mixing lots of pattern, blending warm and cool in equal measure can be too busy. Go heavier on one temperature of color and bring in hits across the color wheel if you want some unexpected pops.

Guest Flow & Seating Strategy

Q: What is your go-to rule for arranging seating so that conversation flows effortlessly all night?

Cheree Berry: It can be tempting to throw the girls on one end and the boys on the other end, but I try to refrain. When I mix genders, particularly in a group that’s unfamiliar with each other, I always think of shared interests and try to do some personality matchmaking. I’ll put the two concertgoers together so they can geek out on music or the pickleball lovers together so they can talk about the kitchen. Not only does this help facilitate more effortless conversation, but it also reflects the intention you’ve put into the gathering.

For a group that knows each other really well, I think you can concede some control and let the guests sit where they may. But don’t underestimate an under-the-plate conversation starter—you may learn something new about friends you’ve known for ages.

Q: What is the simplest change you can make mid-party to soften the room’s energy?

Cheree Berry: Music, of course! Plenty of champagne on the table for self-serve keeps things effervescent. Plus, I always insist on a couple rounds of the Name Game (aka Celebrity), which gets everyone involved.

Pacing, Gifting & Last-Minute Prep

Q: What is your favorite trick for using elevated gift wrap to bring a theme together?

Cheree Berry: A beautifully wrapped package topped with a perfect bow and calligraphed tag is the ultimate! Coordinate your gift wrap with your tabletop design and present at each guest’s place so that it pulls double duty as a place card. Thoughtful and functional.

Q: What is your top secret rule for personalizing a gift or party favor so it feels uniquely tailored to the recipient?

Cheree Berry: My friend Amie hosts an annual Christmas brunch where she gives everyone personalized ornaments. We all go around the table, open our ornaments and howl in laughter at the storytelling behind the selection. Think about what annual themed party you’d like to own.

Or if you host an impromptu gathering, go for quality over quantity. A puzzle or coffee table book for each couple or a signature treat you make (i.e. banana nut bread loaf for all!). I also love a “favorite things” party where each guest brings one of their favorite things for everyone at the table.

Q: What three items should every host keep on hand to pull together a last-minute drink gathering?

Cheree Berry: Champagne, champagne, champagne!

Q: In an era of quick group texts, sending a physical note after being a guest is an art form. What is the exact formula for a thank-you note?

Cheree Berry: It’s a two-part gratitude tour for me. I like to send a quick text to the host the next day, followed by a handwritten note dropped in the mail no later than 2–3 days post-party. In the case of your handwritten thanks, mention something specific—your favorite memory from the party never fails.

Pop the Cork & Set the Table

Whether you’re pairing bold prints from the new Lee Jofa collection or slipping handwritten prompts beneath dinner plates, hosting should always feel like an expression of joy. Keep the bubbles flowing, match your guests with care, and never forget the beauty of a post-party thank-you note. Cheers to a season of elevated gatherings!