Photo: © José Ignacio de @fotoinstantes
Vega Royo-Villanova loves to play host—and she never needs a special occasion to do so. With her life split between Miami and Madrid, where she enjoys her pied-à-terre in the exclusive Parque Conde Orgaz neighborhood, any excuse is perfect to gather a group of friends and share a beautiful afternoon.
This summer evening is no exception. “I love hosting at home, and I try to find an excuse to do it whenever I can.” On this occasion, the gathering is a celebration of Spanish craftsmanship alongside the Basque brand Los Encajeros, where Vega has served as Communications Director for the past six years. She is joined by two other brands that share her passion for impeccable craftsmanship and timeless elegance: Musula Jewels and Micuir.
Mónica Mendoza, the fourth-generation leader of Los Encajeros, has traveled all the way from Bilbao for the event—despite getting married in just two days! Vega and Mónica met in their youth when our hostess lived in the Basque capital, only to cross paths again years later in New York City at a trunk show for the Bilbao-based brand. “New Yorkers absolutely adore Los Encajeros; they are a massive success there. I went as a customer and bought sheets, towels, and christening gowns because I was pregnant with my first child.” That encounter sparked a friendship that would eventually evolve into a brilliant professional partnership.
The tablescape the two have envisioned together is nothing short of a dream—a wonderland of a tablecloth, with a garden beautifully imprinted onto its textile canvas. “Mónica has an incredibly creative mind; she is always bursting with ideas. This time, she wanted a summery table featuring linens from ‘The Rose Garden’ collection. These pieces showcase oversized roses that evoke romantic English gardens, where flowers grow exuberantly, almost wild. They have a scenic, painterly quality to them, reminiscent of antique botanical illustrations from vintage gardening and exploration books. The leaves and roses are intricately drawn and look just like watercolors,” Vega describes.
