Q&A with Jason Berke of Warmhouse Story

Jason Berke of Warmhouse Story is an Atmospherist and I am so in love with what he does! He has a magical ability to make people's lives better. I want to know more.

Tell me about your background?

My journey has led me discipline by discipline to where I am today. I was a wildly creative child who became a teller of tales. I was a process consultant who took a sharp left into home good curation. I was a director of home product design who bloomed into an Atmospherist. I am a sum of all the parts and beauty and warm hospitality leads my vision for my brand, Warmhouse Story.

Why does atmosphere matter?

I believe that atmosphere is not only the physical elements around us that set the tone and create the mood. It is also how we show up for others in a warm way that makes them feel seen and cared for. As it does high above us in the sky, it surrounds us, protects us and helps us thrive. My design-forward creations follow suit and welcome all to feel intentional hospitality.

Top 3 hosting tips?

1. Make it Personal: Include elements that remind people that you thought carefully about their arrival. It could be a note. Perhaps an object they gave you graces the table. A small note under their plate is always a nice touch.

2. Keep it Moving: Place food and beverage stations all around your space to increase flow and mingling. This can keep from any one area becoming too crowded.

3. Encourage Self Serving: Make as many things as possible easy to find and take so that you can reduce the time serving your guests and increase the time you connect with them in conversation.

Favorite item to repurpose and how?

Branches. They are basically free (especially after a rainstorm), they create drama and movement in large vases or hanging from the ceiling (if you dare) and they are easy to decorate with flowers, ribbons, objects and trims. Warning: working with branches can lead to branch hoarding and cat curiosity (this may or may not be based on personal experience).