Inside the Art of Tablescaping with Sarah Kersten Studio
At Coyuchi, we believe that every home should be a living testament to the beauty of sustainable design. That's why we're excited to welcome Sarah Kersten Studio as a Brand We Love on Coyuchi.com—artisanal ceramics handcrafted with passion and care. Celebrated designer Sarah Kersten brings the luxury of nature into every piece, making them the perfect complement to our selection of organic dining essentials.
In an intimate conversation, Sarah reveals how her creative process transforms raw, natural elements into artful dinnerware. Dive into her world of slow, deliberate craftsmanship and discover how intentional design turns every meal into a moment of connection and beauty.
Your ceramic pieces have a quiet elegance—what’s the secret to creating a tablescape that feels effortless yet intentional?
I love Rumi’s phrase, “Let the beauty you love be what you do”. It’s a reminder to surround yourself with things that bring you joy and to fully engage with them. Our dinnerware is made to be lived with—each piece has subtle variations that add warmth and texture to daily moments. When you’re using objects that you truly appreciate, whether for a lively gathering or a quiet weeknight dinner, that sense of effortless intention naturally emerges. It’s less about perfect placement and more about creating a space where beauty and comfort coexist.
Pictured: Coyuchi Toro Canyon Organic Tablecloth in Nutmeg, Marguerite Organic Print Napkins in Natural w/ Praline, Olivos Embroidered Organic Linen Napkins in Natural Chambray w/Praline
If you could host your dream dinner party anywhere, with any guests, what’s on the table—both in terms of design and conversation?
My dream dinner party would take place somewhere relaxed and beautiful along the California coast, with plenty of fresh air and seasonal flowers. The table would be layered with beautiful ceramics, soft linens and perhaps a foraged wreath on the door to welcome guests. The meal would be simple and abundant—fresh vegetables, a big salad and rotisserie chickens, all served family-style. The conversation would flow easily, centering on slowing down, appreciating what we have and savoring the present moment.
Coyuchi and Sarah Kersten Studio share a deep commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability. How do these values influence your design approach, and why are they more important than ever?
Craftsmanship is the cornerstone of what we do, especially as a small business. Our pieces are carefully crafted by hand, with the goal of lasting for generations. Longevity is the most sustainable quality a product can have, and our ceramics are designed to stand the test of time, both in durability and design. I approach my work by creating pieces that I truly love—objects that bring beauty to my life and to the lives of those who use them. In a world that often feels rushed and disposable, having fewer, high-quality objects is not just a sustainable choice—it’s a way of grounding ourselves in what matters most.
Pictured: Coyuchi Toro Canyon Organic Tablecloth in Alpine White, Organic Print Percale Napkins in Dew Chrysanthemum, Sarah Kersten Studio Dinner Plate and Petite Bowl
From slow craftsmanship to slow dining—how does the philosophy behind your ceramics shape the way you approach gathering and entertaining?
Making pottery teaches you patience. It’s a process that requires being fully present, and that mindset carries over into how I approach cooking and hosting. I want a table where people linger, where the texture of the dinnerware and the curve of a bowl invite guests to slow down and savor the moment. It’s less about creating a perfectly styled table and more about fostering connection. My pieces are designed to be used, passed around, and enjoyed—encouraging a sense of ease and togetherness that’s at the heart of any good gathering.
What’s one unexpected styling trick or heirloom-worthy piece that can instantly elevate any dining setup?
I love using one large oval platter as a centerpiece. It’s large enough to hold multiple dishes on it for small gatherings. It’s a simple but unexpected approach that feels communal and a little playful. A well-loved platter can be passed down through generations, collecting memories along the way. It’s not just a serving piece—it becomes part of the story of every meal shared around the table.
