The Tablescape Series: September-Aubergine Mist
- Robin Daprato
- Sep 29
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 30
Where late summer ripeness meets the shadows of fall
September has always felt like a threshold. As a September baby, I hold an equal love for the long, golden ease of summer and the mystery that fall begins to promise. It is a month of fullness and ripeness, of deep shadows stretching just a little longer, of evenings that invite us to gather closer together.
This month’s table was set in Aubergine Mist—a colour that carries the richness of the season. Deep, velvety, and indulgent, it is the colour of figs split open, of twilight fields, of aubergine blossoms heavy on their stems. It is also the colour of memory, and this was felt most clearly in the stories shared by those gathered around the table.
One guest recalled working with aubergine as a young fashion assistant, where she was firmly drilled by her senior designer on the very distinct difference between aubergine and its less refined sister, purple.
Another shared how her father once told her of a rare black orchid, and later, on a trip to Mexico, she discovered the flower he had spoken of, however, its petals revealing themselves not as black at all, but in the deep, beautiful tone of aubergine.
A third described childhood afternoons spent sitting alone in a quiet field, eating dark, ripe cherries until her fingers were stained, the richness of the fruit echoing the saturation of the evening’s theme.
What became clear is that colour never holds a single meaning. For some, aubergine felt sexy and mysterious, lush and indulgent. For others, it stirred softer associations—like the memory of a father’s aubergine sweater, worn for years and infused with comfort and familiarity. In this way, aubergine revealed its duality: at once dramatic and tender, shadowed and warm.
Guests were welcomed through a draped entry room, where a cocktail table was transformed into a cascading tower of grapes. Draped in aubergine velvet, the installation felt almost sculptural—two burgundy candles burning above, clusters of grapes spilling down in abundance, resting against pale stone orbs at its base. It set the tone: opulence, harvest, and drama.
At the dining table, that mood deepened. Vintage silver candlestick holders anchored the length of the setting, each topped with slender tapers whose flames cast a soft, flickering glow. The flowers were equally unexpected: dark calla lilies tucked elegantly into plums, each becoming its own sculptural vase.
The foundation of the table was layered in textural linens—deep aubergine cloths draped the table. Menus, printed on thick, soft-touch stock, rested at every setting. Their design echoed the evening’s palette: pale parchment with aubergine lettering, finished with a single embossed with a grape motif.
Beyond the table, smaller vignettes extended the palette through the room. On the sideboard, a polished tray reflected the flicker of candlelight, surrounded by silver coupe glasses overflowing with grapes. Ornamental cabbages in deep purple tones took the place of florals, their ruffled leaves echoing the richness of the season. The arrangement was understated yet theatrical: fruit, flame, and metal placed with quiet intention—an echo of the grape tower at the entrance and a prelude to the abundance waiting at the table.
On a nearby cabinet, the cake became its own centerpiece. Designed by Café Pastel, this was the third cake they’ve created for the series, and it was every bit as delicious as it was beautiful. Cloaked in a rich aubergine-toned icing, its surface was adorned with sculptural blooms and finished with a base of clustered chrysanthemums, echoing the florals and tones threaded throughout the room.
The night began with crostini layered with whipped ricotta, local fig jam, thyme, and toasted walnuts, crafted by Chef Kate Levitt and paired with Meldville Viognier (2023).
Courses followed with a rhythm of flavour and tone, each paired with thoughtful Ontario wines guided by sommelier Divya Steinwall:
Smoked Ontario Trout Salad with shaved fennel, pumpkin seeds, and edible flowers — paired with RR81 Rotburger (2023).
Seared Duck Breast with Blackberry Gastrique, served with roasted beets and parsnip purée — paired with North 42 Degrees Pinot Noir (2021).
A finale of Vanilla Cake with Buttercream, adorned with figs, blackberries, and flowers — paired with Rosehall Run “The Finisher” (2022).
Each pairing seemed to draw out a different layer of aubergine—sweet, earthy, smoky, lush—and the colour became a catalyst for conversation.
To carry these impressions home, each guest received a custom wine journal I designed for the evening, a small companion for recording their tasting notes and reflections—a keepsake as personal as the stories that filled the night.
This is what I love most about these gatherings: the way a table set in colour becomes a mirror, drawing out shared memories and weaving them together.
Now, we step into October. The next chapter will be Ink Black—a table leaning into mystery, shadow, and reflection, accompanied by a guest tarot reading to guide us deeper into the season’s darker tones. Tickets open October 1st—I cannot wait to share this next gathering.
THE TABLESCAPE SERIES: AUBERGINE MIST
PHOTO GALLERY
WORDS FROM OUR SEPTEMBER TABLESCAPE GUESTS
"The September tablescape event was such an unforgettable evening filled with amazing food, wine, laughter and the best company. From the moment I walked in, I truly was immersed in Aubergine Mist and felt the warmth and beauty of the colour woven into every detail Robin created. I am in awe of her talent, attention to detail and ability to allow a colour to speak through every element including decorations, food, and wine. It wasn’t just a table, it was an immersive experience, a reminder of how powerful design can be in shaping how we gather, celebrate, and connect. I look forward to more of these events in the future!" -Sunjita
“I was fortunate to secure a seat at Robin’s Aubergine Mist dinner. It was an exceptionally curated evening spent savouring delectable cuisine and exquisite wine pairings amidst an environment that was both creatively styled and aesthetically pleasing. Robin meticulously considered every aspect of the dining experience, weaving a beautifully crafted narrative for us. The dinner guests, despite being unfamiliar with each other , proved to be exceptionally interesting and captivating. It was an unforgettable evening, and I would love to attend more. Robin has created something truly exceptional in her Tablescape series." -Carrie
“From start to finish, the evening was exceptional. It was intimate, delicious, and deeply engaging. Robin’s seamless vision and attention to detail left a huge impression." -Emily
“Robin’s September Tablescape was an unforgettable evening that beautifully captured the transition from late summer into fall. The Aubergine Mist palette, paired with candlelight, created an atmosphere that was both indulgent and inviting. From the very first bite of fig jam and ricotta crostini to the thoughtful wine pairing, every detail felt intentional and elevated. It was more than just a dinner — it was an experience of warmth, conversation, and artistry that lingered long after the evening ended. The detail that was put into every moment put this experience apart from use another dinner party."-Amelia
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