Spring is the season that awakens our senses. It celebrates an organic energy of optimism, the return of nature’s blossoming beauty and an openness to embracing change. It’s also a time that rouses our social bandwidth, meaning the epoch of hosting soirees at our homes is alive and well. Who better to tap for domestic design insights than beloved tastemaker Aerin Lauder? Here, Lauder indulges us with expert advice on how to elevate and refresh our spaces, details her newest AERIN collection in collaboration with Williams Sonoma, and shares her pro-tips for entertaining at home.
Photography provided by Williams Sonoma
What was your creative process behind shaping this new spring collection with Williams Sonoma?
The newest collection is rooted in my love for nature and entertaining, especially outdoors during the spring and summer time. For many years, Williams Sonoma has been the most incredible partner for AERIN. The creative process is always inspiring, enjoyable and completely organic. I love taking color palettes, textures, floral elements and many other details, and translating them to Williams Sonoma’s best-selling products. The team has been pivotal in taking the effortless elegance of the AERIN brand, as well my passion for home decor and entertaining, and making it feel inherently their own and accessible to a wider audience.
Where did you draw inspiration for these exciting designs?
My memories of Long Island summers spent on my mother’s porch were a key element in conceptualizing this collection. I am forever inspired by my garden, so I was excited to translate those natural textures and floral motifs to such a beautiful collection. My mother has also always collected white wicker furniture, which she loves to mix with vintage quilts and geraniums in the summertime.
What’s the simplest design advice you can offer someone looking to refresh their style this spring?
I love refreshing my home for the spring season, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming and complicated. Simple, impactful changes can be easy and effortless, while still creating a sense of seasonality. Whether it’s fresh florals in a beautiful vase, a candle that is reminiscent of spring or even a few picture frames that hold photographs of special memories, these little touches can transform your space and make it feel new no matter the time or place.
Can you share the entertaining trends you’re most excited about this season?
I am excited about the transition towards casual entertaining. There is a lot of enthusiasm around hosting at home, but with a much more laid-back sensibility, particularly with a younger demographic. We are seeing this a lot, especially with the popularity of games. It is an activity that every generation can enjoy together, without setting a formal dinner table and entertaining in that sort of traditional way.
What daily rituals or hobbies are you looking forward to enjoying during this seasonal shift?
As the weather gets warmer, I am excited to spend more time outdoors. There is nothing better than going for a long walk surrounded by nature and feeling the warmth of the sun as the seasons shift. One of my favorite parts of both spring and summer is the endless opportunities to spend quality time with family and friends.
Any pro-tips for hosting the perfect outdoor garden party this spring?
When entertaining outdoors, I always advise to embrace the natural beauty around you. There is no better inspiration than your own backdrop. Create a layered tablescape that incorporates a mix of colors and textures. I like to include rattan, wicker and raffia to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere with a sense of ease and refinement. No matter the tablescape, fresh flowers are always my favorite finishing touch. When I’m entertaining at home, my go-to flowers are from the farmstand down the street. It is my favorite time of year to add touches that are local and in-season.
