Plus find out his go-to host or hostess gift
The College of Charleston graduate honed his skills as Spoleto Festival USA’s special events manager before launching his bespoke wedding and event production business in 2017. The sought-after designer is known for his refined taste, attention to detail, and mix of tradition with a cosmopolitan edge and eye for innovation. This summer, Sams debuted his downtown boutique, Wentworth, offering a curated collection of new, vintage, antique, and handcrafted items for the home. Look out for his dramatic, holiday window display, featuring draped brown velvet, garlands, and large bronze stags. Here, Sams shares his must-have pieces for entertaining this season.
Q How are you celebrating the season?
A I’ll have a night or two of entertaining friends at home and will whip up a batch of eggnog. We keep it to cocktails and heavy hors d’oeuvres. It allows guests to move around and eat as much as they wish—and not feel like Santa when they leave. I’ll cover the dining table with branches, bowls of citrus, and ample Champagne buckets from Hôtel silver (above) for easy pouring!
Q Where do you like to shop locally for home decor?
A Wentworth, of course, is my favorite spot for home decor now! Other Charleston spots I love are Antiques of South Windermere, 17 South, and not-to-miss Elizabeth Stuart, where I buy paperwhites (above) for holiday decorating.
Q What’s your go-to host or hostess gift?
A Wentworth stocks these gorgeous, tall taper candles from Denmark (above) in 53 different colors, which are lovely to give to any host or hostess. I love to pair these with a beautiful box of matches and a nice set of candle holders.
Q What’s on your wish list for the holidays?
A I want to redo our New York City terrace this spring, so I am jonesing for some new outdoor furniture and architectural elements from Charleston Gardenworks, such as this Italian terracotta urn (above).
Q What are you doing on New Year’s Eve? What are you wearing?
A I am producing a chic New Year’s Eve wedding in Atlanta at the historic Swan House. It’s going to be gorgeous, and I will be wearing a classic black tux from Todd Snyder (above).
Q What’s your top holiday entertaining tip for readers who might be hosting family or a small get-together?
A I keep chocolate-dipped citrus on hand to put out as a bite for cocktailing along with a spicy nut mix, and of course, a well-stocked bar! Don’t overthink it. A well-executed, simple cocktail party is far more impressive than an overly produced party that falls flat or feels forced.
