Celina Wright is the founder and designer behind Esencial Hogar; an online tabletop shop designed to delight and inspire! Produced by the finest manufacturers in India, and finished by craftsmen in El Salvador, Esencial Hogar’s magnificent linens elevate the every day, and have undoubtedly done so at Maison Carlyle!
Prior to launching her company, Celina worked as an interior designer in New York City, under the inimitable Mark Cunningham and Zoe Feldman. After nearly a decade in the luxury residential interior design industry, Celina decided to move back to her native El Salvador, and step into her love of all things art de la table! What began as a small online shop, offering an edited selection of globally sourced items, quickly grew into a sought after tabletop destination amongst tastemakers and event planners around the world. Combining her passion for design and textiles, Esencial’s inaugural linen collection was a natural next step for Celina.
Aside from designing her beautiful collection of linens, Celina also offers tabletop styling, interior design and curated wedding registry services through Esencial Hogar. Her recent feature on Over the Moon (another favorite at MC), is a feast for the eyes, and offers us a glimpse at her personal (and incredibly dreamy) wedding registry!
We couldn’t be more delighted to sit down with our dear friend; Celina, and talk about what Living Beautifully means to her, where she turns to for inspiration, and all things tabletop!
Where did you grow up and how has your past shaped your design aesthetic?
Growing up in El Salvador has had a significant impact on my design style. I’ve always found inspiration in nature and naturally lean towards vibrant colors. When I was 14, I had the fortunate opportunity to attend high school in Rhode Island, and that New England style also left its mark on my aesthetic. I’m drawn to classic, well-tailored interiors with a touch of vibrant color and personality.
How would you describe your style?
Tailored, whimsical, and practical.
Who are some of your style icons?
Lee Radziwill, Jane Birkin, and Lauren Santo Domingo.
How did you start your company and what do you love most about what you do?
After spending almost a decade working as an Interior Designer in New York City, I decided it was time to take a break, explore new opportunities, and be closer to my family back in El Salvador. But, just as I made that decision, the pandemic hit, turning everyone’s life upside down. That’s when Esencial Hogar came into the picture…it started as an online shop, collaborating with local artisans to support them during the pandemic and showcase their incredible talent. During these collaborations, I discovered my true passion – making everyday activities like a family dinner at home feel memorable.
I’ve always had a deep fascination towards textile design, and was fortunate to be a part of the launch of Mark Cunningham’s line, “Marked NY.” Combining my experience in product development with my love of entertaining, I created my first collection of table linens.
Where do you turn to for inspiration when you begin a new project?
Travel, museums, and books.
What would your dream project be?
To collaborate with Martina Mondadori and Cabana Magazine.
If you could hire any decorator and/or architect from the past to design your home, who would it/they be?
Billy Baldwin, as his interiors feel timeless and relevant to this day. His style is both classic and modern and that’s what I’m drawn to.
If you could invite any three individuals from the past, who would they be and what would you serve for dinner?
Anni Albers, Charlotte Perriand, and Agnes Martin. I’d definitely opt for a catered meal -there’s no way I’d risk my cooking when dining with such legends!
What are some of your indispensable items when entertaining and how do you ensure a memorable dinner party?
A memorable tablecloth to set the tone and an expertly curated playlist.
What tabletop items do you invest in, and which ones do you save on?
I’m all about investing in high-quality items that I use regularly. I’m more than happy to splurge on linens, porcelain, flatware, chic glassware, and vintage silver – things that stand the test of time. I save a bit when it comes to casual ceramics and seasonal pieces.
For me, it’s all about choosing pieces that can be passed down through generations. I’ve been fortunate to inherit some special items from both of my grandmothers and my mother over the years. These pieces always steal the show and spark interesting conversations.
What does living beautifully mean to you?
Living beautifully to me is being able to find joy in those simple everyday moments.
How do you make every day feel special in your home?
I find comfort in the little things – like making myself an espresso every morning and savouring a few pages of whatever book I’m reading before my husband wakes up. And when it comes to dinner, I make it a habit to set the table at home every day, even if we’re just having takeout.
What is your typical morning routine?
I’m an early riser, usually up around 5:30 am. Since my husband prefers to sleep in, I quietly slip out of our bedroom and make my way to our sun-drenched living room. There, I treat myself to a fresh espresso and dive into the pages of my current novel, “The Covenant of Water” – it’s a fantastic read!
Around 7:00 am, I change into my workout gear and hit the gym. Depending on the day, I’ll either take a spinning class or do some weight training. By about 9 am, I’m back home, and it’s time for a refreshing shower. Yes, I’m one of those who washes their hair every day – don’t @ me! After getting dressed, I let my hair air dry while brewing another cup of coffee. Then, I settle into our home office and tackle some work.
How do you like to unwind after a busy day?
I love to lay down and watch tv. Netflix binges are my guilty pleasure.
What do you love most about living in El Salvador?
I love being close to my family; they are my world.
While traveling, are there any objects you enjoy collecting?
Interesting ceramics and funky silver pieces. I can’t resist silver plated fruits.
What is at the top of your bucket list?
Traveling to New Zealand -I’m planning our honeymoon there in January!
What are some of the greatest lessons you learned from your parents?
A sense of humor is essential, especially when facing difficult situations.
What can we expect to see from Esencial Hogar in the near future!
I’m looking forward to expanding our collection into other tabletop categories. Stay tuned!
Celina's Favorites
Favorite Travel Destination?
Mexico City – the food, the shopping, the museums. I love everything about it.
Favorite historic house museum?
Casa Vicens in Barcelona.
Favorite interior of all time?
Hubert de Givenchy’s Château du Jonchet.
Favorite design era?
Parisian interiors in the 1970s.
Favorite piece of furniture in your home?
Our Harvey Probber “Nuclear” Coffee Table in chocolate brown. I love to style it with books and finds from my travels. It’s constantly getting re-styled.
Favorite design book(s) you most often turn to for inspiration?
All of Francois Halard’s books.
Favorite movie(s) every design lover should watch at least once?
Anything from Wes Anderson -particularly The Grand Budapest Hotel.
Favorite home scent?
Loewe’s Geranium scented candle.
Favorite tabletop shop?
Online go-tos: Collecto World, Over the Moon, The Ark Elements, and Houses & Parties.
Favorites from my travels:
La Maison du Bac in Paris
Casa Lopez in Paris
Fiona Finds in London
Les Eines in Barcelona
Svenskt Tenn in Stockholm
Anyon Atelier in Dallas
March in San Francisco
Porta in Brooklyn
Roman and Williams Guild in NYC
Kneen & Co in Chicago
By Casa 360 in Mexico City
Favorite family tradition?
Helping my mother set the table and design the menu for family dinners.
Favorite piece of advice from your mother?
“Let Them” – phrase coined by Author Mel Robbins. This idea that you stop wasting your time and energy trying to control or change other people is something my mother is constantly reminding me of and something that has helped me be happier.
