As any host knows, the table sets the mood for the meal. Vicksburg will find itself at the center of a rising movement celebrating just that when it hosts the Beautiful Table Settings Bash (January 30–February 1). The event grew out of a Facebook group that, early in the pandemic, swelled to a quarter million members. Stuck at home, followers would set tables for imaginary parties and share pictures. Manners matter, says founder May Eason of Wetumpka, Alabama: “You don’t want to be ugly and say your tablecloth doesn’t match. If you can’t say something nice, keep scrolling.” Vicksburg residents Harley Caldwell and Jennifer Coulter invited Eason to put on a multiday table setting exhibition, now in its second year. After attending talks on napkin folding and floral arranging, guests can stop by the salad-plate swap table and browse silver flatware, crystal, and embroidered linens galore.
Southern Agenda