Duggan Society: Showcasing the Art of Hosting – A Journey of Elegance, Creativity, and Connection

Gathering around a beautifully set table is more than just a meal—it’s an art form, a way to create unforgettable experiences. Few brands capture this essence as elegantly as Duggan Society, a rising star in the world of tablescaping and modern entertaining. In this exclusive February 2025 cover feature, Hinton Magazine sits down with the creative minds behind Duggan Society to explore their inspiring journey, from their founding in 2023 to their ambitious plans for global expansion. With hand-painted tableware and thoughtfully curated collections, Duggan Society is redefining how we approach hosting and design, bringing both elegance and authenticity to the table.

Duggan Society was founded in 2023, and your journey has been remarkable so far. Could you share with us the inspiration behind starting the brand and what motivated you to take the leap into the world of tablescaping and entertaining?

The inspiration for Duggan Society stemmed from my lifelong passion for creating memorable moments around the table. Growing up, family gatherings revolved around beautifully set tables that brought everyone together, and I wanted to share that joy with others. I noticed a gap in the market for high-quality, hand-painted tableware that combined elegance with functionality, and I felt inspired to create a brand that celebrates the art of hosting and entertaining.

Growing up, you both experienced the significance of family gatherings around the table. How has that childhood experience influenced your vision for Duggan Society?

Family meals were more than just about food; they were a time of connection, storytelling, and love. The beauty of the table settings always stood out to me as a reflection of the effort and care that went into creating those moments. Duggan Society is my way of bringing that magic to others, helping hosts craft spaces where people can connect and create memories.

The concept of ‘tablescaping’ is central to your brand. How do you define this art, and why do you believe it’s such an important part of creating memorable events?

Tablescaping is the art of setting a table that tells a story. It’s about combining textures, colors, and designs in a way that creates an inviting atmosphere. A well-dressed table enhances the dining experience, making guests feel valued and celebrated. It transforms a meal into an event, fostering connection and joy. In fact I believe hosting is one of the most sophisticated forms of art.

Duggan Society offers a curated selection of tableware and decor. Can you talk us through the design process behind your collections and how you ensure each piece feels both elegant and functional?

Our design process begins with inspiration from nature, art, and history. Each piece is meticulously designed to ensure uniqueness and authenticity. Functionality is equally important, so we work closely with artisans to create durable pieces that are as practical as they are beautiful. Every design is tested to ensure it fits seamlessly into modern entertaining while retaining a timeless charm. We want to bring the beauty of antique ceramic and designs to modern and everyday tables.

From your early days to now, what have been some of the most exciting milestones or successes that have validated your decision to launch Duggan Society?

Some highlights include securing over 30,3 k  Instagram followers within a short period, collaborating with influencers who align with our brand’s vision, and seeing our pieces featured in beautifully hosted events and shops.  Each time a customer shares how our tableware has enhanced their gatherings, it reaffirms my decision to start this journey. 

Now we are in 2025, what are some of the key plans you have for the brand? Are there any new collections or initiatives we can look forward to?

This year, we’re excited to launch new collections inspired by global cultures, focusing on rich patterns and bold designs. We’re also exploring collaborations with interior designers and lifestyle brands, and we plan to expand our presence in retail space, with private label Additionally, we’re working on a coffee table book that celebrates the art of hosting and tablescaping. 

Reflecting on your journey so far, what have been the biggest challenges in starting Duggan Society, and how have you overcome them?

Managing logistics and maintaining inventory accuracy have been some of the biggest hurdles. Partnering with reliable 3PL providers and implementing better inventory management tools have helped mitigate these challenges. Balancing creativity with operational tasks has also been a learning curve, but having a supportive team has made all the difference.

Starting a business is never easy. What advice would you offer to aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those looking to launch a brand in the design or lifestyle sector?

My advice is to stay true to your vision and focus on creating something that resonates with your audience. Building a brand takes time, so be patient and adaptable. Surround yourself with a strong support system, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance when needed. Most importantly, let your passion fuel your perseverance. Also try to work with reliable suppliers, freelance artisans may take you to bad experiences and make you waste time and money.

Collaboration often plays a significant role in the growth of a brand. Are there any exciting partnerships or collaborations in the works for Duggan Society?

Absolutely! We’re exploring partnerships with renowned event planners and hosting curated events to showcase our products. Collaborations with interior design influencers and floral artists are also in the pipeline to bring unique styling ideas to our customers. On 2025 we are launching a 2 collection collaboration with Italian brands Sveva’s home that will be sold in Europe and USA.

Finally, looking ahead, what are your long-term aspirations for Duggan Society? How do you envision the brand evolving in the coming years, and what impact do you hope to have on the world of hosting and design?

My long-term vision for Duggan Society is to become a global authority in the world of tableware and entertaining. I aim to inspire a new wave of hosting, where tables become a platform for connection and creativity. By blending timeless design with modern aesthetics, I hope Duggan Society will continue to enhance the art of gathering for generations to come. I Sometimes feel people are very concerned about interior design and collecting art but when it comes to tableware they don’t pay as much attention as the do with furniture or art and I  feel is in the  art of  lying  the table when  you really show your taste creativity and sophistication. 

The interview delves into the heart of Duggan Society’s story, starting with its founder’s inspiration drawn from childhood memories of family gatherings and the emotional connections formed around the table. The founders share how those experiences shaped their vision for the brand, leading to the creation of a curated line of tableware that blends timeless charm with modern functionality.

Throughout the conversation, Duggan Society emphasizes the importance of tablescaping—an art they define as transforming a meal into a memorable event by crafting a visually inviting atmosphere. They discuss their meticulous design process, inspired by nature, art, and history, ensuring that each piece stands out while remaining practical for everyday use.

The interview also highlights key milestones, such as their growing social media presence, successful collaborations, and plans to expand through partnerships with European and American brands. Looking ahead, they share exciting upcoming initiatives, including new globally-inspired collections, collaborations with Italian design houses, and even a coffee table book on hosting.

Despite the brand’s rapid growth, the founders are candid about the challenges they’ve faced, from logistics to balancing creativity with business operations. Their advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to stay true to their vision, build reliable partnerships, and remain patient throughout the process. Ultimately, Duggan Society aspires to elevate the art of hosting, inspiring a new generation to create beautiful, meaningful moments around the table.

Shop now over at Duggansociety.com