above: Lanahan loves to pair bold colors to create a fresh, playful table setting.
Photographs by Kristen Francis
A love for entertaining runs deep in tabletop linen designer Lily Lanahan’s veins. Raised in Texas and now living in New Canaan, Lanahan grew up immersed in a culture where parties were grand, colorful and planned to perfection—complete with calligraphy and curated party favors. “Everything is bigger in Texas,” she laughs. From backyard barbecues to elegant holiday dinners, the joy of gathering was woven into her childhood and ultimately became the foundation for her creative journey.
In 2020, she launched Elizabeth Lake, her namesake lifestyle label, with the motto: Use regularly, celebrate often, and pass down the good stuff. “I gravitated toward linens specifically using appliqué, because it’s a chance to apply an old-world technique in a sophisticated, fun way for the modern-day host,” she explains.
Her passion for handmade craftsmanship began while studying decorative arts in London and working at Sotheby’s, where she fell in love with antiques, traditional techniques and especially needlework. Appliqué—an Old-World art of layering fabric—quickly became a favorite. “Appliqué is hand-layering fabric, a traditional, dying craft I’ve always admired. Linens were the perfect canvas to bring it back in a fresh, modern way,” she says. The tactile process, the texture and the meticulous attention to detail spoke to her desire to celebrate the everyday with beauty and meaning.
Elizabeth Lake linens are handcrafted on the Portuguese island of Madeira by skilled artisans who sew each piece stitch by stitch. Lanahan designs every item herself, sourcing premium linens from mills in Belgium, Italy and Ireland before they’re sent to Madeira for appliqué. The result? A collection that’s playful and polished—never stuffy. “What sets us apart is our blend of craftsmanship and character. Our designs are cheeky, bright and a little glamorous—a fresh take on a timeless tradition.”
Appliqués on tablecloths, placemats and napkins are hand-stitched by skilled artisans on the island of Madeira.
The brand has quickly gained a devoted following, appealing to those who value thoughtful details and the joy of hosting. Whether it’s a casual brunch or a formal affair, Elizabeth Lake linens infuse any table with warmth, wit and elegance.
Looking to elevate your table? The Elizabeth Lake collection offers everything from napkins and placemats to tablecloths and hand towels. Sold direct-to-consumer, every bespoke piece is available on the brand’s website. Set the bar (and the table) high with her timeless entertaining essentials. It’s time to set the table and start celebrating! elizabethlake.com
Lily’s Entertaining Tips
IT’S IN THE DETAILS
Rather than using formal place cards at your next dinner party, source something thoughtful or funny to place at each place setting: a packet of flower seeds, cheap statement sunglasses, a childhood photo or a favorite book wrapped in pretty paper. These details go a long way.
MIX HIGH AND LOW
Pair handcrafted Madeiran linens with supermarket flowers. Family-style BBQ served on your wedding china, or a seated dinner with place cards penned by toddlers.
FRESHEN UP
Linens offer an entirely new lens to your same old china or simple white dinner plates. Arrange them with something surprising for a bold color pairing. Our dinner napkins are designed to be mixed and matched with several placemat styles, so it always looks fresh.
UP YOUR GAME WITH COCKTAIL NAPKINS
Cocktail napkins are like charms. They’re highly collectible and meant to be enjoyed over the years before being passed down. They make guests feel special—it’s as simple as that!
SURPRISE YOUR GUESTS:
Channel childhood summers for a sense of wonder and surprise—serve Push Pops for dessert or set up an ice cream sundae bar with old-fashioned candies.
DIVIDE AND CONQUER
Outsource the parts of hosting you don’t enjoy so that you can be a guest at your own party. Staff the bar and order takeout or maybe an over-the-top grazing board—this will give you more time to dive into the fun details.
TAKE CARE OF YOUR LINEN:
I throw them in the wash! I use OxiClean for spot treatment—it works wonders for red wine. Lay them dry and then press. It takes a bit of time but it’s worth it!