Table Escapes

“Setting tables is this ongoing evolution,” says Sherman. “It’s been around for hundreds of years. It’s a timeless way to create and connect.” One of their favorite events was when they co-hosted a rodeo disco diner-themed brunch with a nod to Dolly Parton at Weary Traveler with chefs from Maybe Lately’s of Viroqua.

“We do not cook,” says Hageman. “[So] restaurants and individuals reach out to us or we reach out to them. It’s a very collaborative way of creating an event.” Chefs love being able to create a once-in-a-lifetime menu centered around the party’s theme. Hageman and Sherman lean into the event space and individual words to find inspiration for a theme.

When setting up an event, they bring it all to the table—literally.

“It takes a lot of time for us—it’s a lot of shifting, moving things around, playing with different elements, heights and textures,” says Sherman.

The two have very different aesthetic preferences, which benefits them by not having the design pulled too far in one direction.

“We go off of feels,” says Hageman. “We’ll show up with everything and then

it’s the two of us bouncing things around on the table until it feels right. We have an eclectic, chaotic style.”

Both love adding tiny details and surprises throughout a table landscape.

“We excel in the intimate details,” says Sherman. “Guests say, ‘Oh my gosh, there’s a box and there’s something in it.’ It’s the unique details that we think about.”

Most of the table settings are created from thrift store or antique shop finds.

“I never felt like a creative person until I started doing table setting,” says Sherman. “I was in awe and shock that I could push the envelope of creativity. I find a lot of meaning and purpose in it.”

Their goal is to create spaces where people feel included, special and like they’re having a novel experience.

“Both of us were coming out of relationships when we started this,” says Hageman. “I had moved back from Milwaukee. It was tough to make new friends in our 30s.”

Many people attend their events solo because they just moved to Madison or are looking to meet new people—a spirit Sherman and Hageman love. The phrase “Don’t Cook for Cowboys” means don’t put all your time and energy into your partner and neglect other relationships and your community.

“At the end of the day, I want people to come out of it with new friends and genuinely meet people,” Hageman says.

Setting an Eclectic Holiday Table

Hageman and Sherman offer tips for creating inviting, holiday spaces.

1. Use lots of tapered candles—it makes a space feel comfy and cozy. Grab a mix of colors and heights. Crystal candleholders help add flair. Hageman and Sherman find theirs at thrift stores.

2. Swap out flower centerpieces in favor of winter vegetables. Kale and cabbage are seasonal produce that can be every bit as beautiful as a bouquet.

3. Layer napkins between small plates and dinner plates rather than placing them beside the plates.

4. Use cordial glasses instead of typical glassware.

5. Use large silver platters for serving.

6. Have little snacks on the table. Bread, crackers and cheeses are something people can pick apart to keep them from getting too hungry while you’re in the kitchen getting ready.

7. Always have a fully stocked pantry—pickled anything pairs well with cheese. Have fancy mustard and sardines on hand for the holidays.

8. Mix and match plates to add interest by playing with patterns and textures.

9. Tie bows around silverware, candlesticks and other items.