A Rosh Hashanah Table

Recipes and styling by Adina Schlass, The Chef’s Wife

As we reflect on the past year, we recognize the profound shift we've experienced and the resilience we've had to summon, as once again we face the challenges of survival. It is this shift that, as I prepare to set a beautiful Rosh Hashanah table, has given me a renewed and intense desire to celebrate our Jewish identity in the most vibrant and meaningful way. More than that, it helped birth the idea of my own personal line of Rosh Hashanah decor, created to bridge the gap between aesthetic beauty and meaningful design. This year, it feels like more than just a simple setting. It is a reflection of a deep pride, of who we are and what we stand for, about honoring our beautiful traditions and celebrating the many things that unite us.

This year’s table is vibrant and abundant. The minimalist in me is drawn to neutral tones, accented with vibrant greens, and finished with striking black bows that add layers of sophistication and elegance, perfectly suited for the more elevated tone of Rosh Hashanah. Neutral linens and dishes serve as a subtle backdrop and blank canvas, allowing symbolic elements, props, and wild flowers to shine without overwhelming the scene.

Apples, one of Rosh Hashanah's traditional fruits, are of course a natural choice here, adding layers of significance and symbolism. I love that these are monochromatic and seem like an extension of the florals without being overwhelming or messy.

Vintage is making a comeback, and I’m thrilled that I didn’t have to look far for this beautiful sterling silver cutlery. They were a wedding gift to my mother over 40 years ago and still look as pristine as they did then. She passed them on to me a few years ago on a trip to Australia, and while I may live far away, having them on my table during the holidays brings a cherished reminder of home. Look for family heirlooms, discarded pieces that both look beautiful and add that sentimentality to your holiday tables.

There are many layers here, of symbolism and actuality, that all come together to create a table that is beautiful as well as deeply meaningful–as we hope the coming year will be.