Nancy Meyers Summer — Courtesy of the Campbells

A Little Table Lore

We always picture a seventh guest. The table technically fits eight (including us), but someone usually drops, someone brings a friend, or someone decides last minute they’re in. Better to squeeze than let a seat sit empty.

Seven also has cultural significance for us. In Persian culture, it’s a sacred number tied to renewal, balance, and tradition. You see it most clearly in haft-sin, the Nowruz table setting arranged with seven symbolic items to mark the new season.

And in Polish tradition it’s customary to leave an empty seat at the table during the holidays. It’s a quiet gesture, meant for someone who couldn’t be there or someone who might show up unexpectedly.

Also… we live at 77 Seventh Avenue. So there you have it: Table Seven.