Decadent Dining with Emily Jackson

Tastemaker: Emily Jackson
India Amory Linens used: Aegean Chintz

Stuffy Muffy has become such a fabulous source of inspiration on instagram - what motivated you to start the blog? Thank you! I started Stuffy Muffy as a sort of journal to explore my interests in art history, decorating, and the pursuit of throwing a well-enjoyed fête. I had hopes that my posts and interviews—all written in a very approachable tone—would resonate with other like-minded aesthetes. I don’t stick to an editorial calendar and write when I have a whim (and time!) to, so it’s always a surprise when and what will pop up.

Who are your greatest creative influences? Most definitely artists, tastemakers, and writers of the past such as Elsie de Wolfe, Mary Cassatt, Georgia O’Keeffe, Agatha Christie, and Nancy Lancaster. My sister and I were named after Emily and Charlotte Brontë so I feel intrinsically drawn to their brand of written creativity.

What is your approach to setting the table? I like to strike a balance between done up and dressed down. Elements such as linens and flowers should imbue a sense of formality as a thank you to guests for making the effort to attend, while charming details like vintage glassware and rattan chargers lend an approachable flair.

What are your favorite occasions to host? Anything from a planned out Fourth of July spread for family to a last minute cocktail hour with neighbors. Per entertaining aficionado Steven Stolman, I always keep noshing essentials at the ready for such occasions.  Red, white and rosé, Parmesan Whisps from Costco, marcona stuffed olives from Whole Foods, and rosemary almonds from Trader Joe’s are perpetually stocked at Chez Muffy.

Dream dinner party guests (past or present)? Dream guests that I’m guessing would cause quite a splash together and fodder for good stories for years to come: Candice Bergen, Ina Garten, Andy Cohen, Nancy Meyers, Oprah, Casey Wilson, Gloria Vanderbilt, and Patricia Altschul.

Favorite travel destination? Palm Springs, CA.

Your aesthetic in five words? Classic, ladylike, charming, artful, layered

Interior designers or artists you admire? Rooms by Cece Barfield Thompson, Brittany Bromley, Kendall Rabun, Mallory Mathison Glenn, and Minnette Jackson are très inspiring. Artist-wise, works by Sara Gen, Kit Porter, Lulie Wallace, Nancy Franke, and Alexis Walter make my heart pitter-patter.

Top instagram accounts to follow? @amy_stone for heavenly images, @elizabeth.w.cook for invaluable estate sale tips, @caitlingeierfisher for chic motherhood moments, and, of course, @indiaamory for tangible tablescape inspiration. For levity from the post-perfect scroll, I relish in a laugh from @dannypellegrino and @heatherkmcmahan.