For a long time, I thought neutrals were the definition of good taste.

I loved color and pattern on other people, in other people's homes, in restaurants, in magazines. But when it came to my own wardrobe or my own home, I played it safe. Cream, black, beige, brown. They felt easier, more expensive and more grown up.

Then I realized a table was a pretty good place to take a few risks.

After having my daughter, I was spending a lot more time at home and started missing some of the little things I loved about going out—the good glassware, a great restaurant table, and how it is designed to create a certain mood. I wanted a way to bring some of that home without needing a reason to have people over.

So I started with the table.

Mari Jones became a place for me to experiment with color and pattern without having to make too much of a commitment. A table can change with your mood, your dinner, or match your outfit.

I spent time in Jaipur working with artisans and learning more about block printing and fell in love with the colors, patterns and the imperfectness of something handmade.

The idea behind Mari Jones is pretty simple: make the table more fun.

Use the good napkins. Mix the patterns. Put out the placemats even if you're eating leftovers. Open the bottle you've been saving.

You don't need a special occasion.

Courtney