THE EXPERT INSTINCT

Maddox & Rose’s Leigh Robinson on Soulful Event Design


Some designers chase scale; others chase feeling. Leigh Robinson—co-owner of Maddox & Rose brings a quiet clarity to intimate gatherings, shaping spaces that invite people to slow down and really be there. In this Q&A, she opens up about how she begins, what guides her choices, and the considerations that turn a simple setup into something you remember.

Q&A with Leigh Robinson


What is your signature style?

Earthy and organic with moody palettes. I love natural textures with rich, tonal depth. Stone, wood, linen, and aged metals are some of my favorite materials to incorporate. I like designs that feel collected over time, where the mix of tones, textures, and lighting adds depth and a sense of history and storytelling. It’s all about creating spaces that feel lived-in, soulful, and effortlessly beautiful. 


How do you describe your creative approach?

I start every project with a visual diary — a mix of textures, tones, and imagery pulled from fashion, interiors, art, and even the wedding world. It helps me get a feel for the mood and emotion I want to create before anything else. From there, my process is really intuitive. I design based on feeling — how I want a space to make someone feel when they walk in. I let textures, tones, and materials guide me, building layers until everything feels balanced and natural. It’s less about following rules and more about creating spaces that tell a story and feel effortlessly lived-in.


Where do you search for new inspiration?

Pinterest and Instagram, but because we do both interior and event design, we look at both categories.


What do you recommend investing most in?

Tablescape and the food and beverage experience! The table is where conversation flows, laughter happens, and everyone feels most at home. Thoughtful design at the table sets the tone for how the whole gathering feels. The textures, lighting, florals, and even how the napkin folds — those small details make people feel cared for. And pairing that with a memorable food and drink experience creates real connection. It doesn’t have to be over the top; it just needs to feel intentional and inviting, like every element was chosen to make guests slow down and enjoy being together.


Team big or small: What type of events do you prefer?

Small. Very small. Intimate dinner parties of 30 max.


How far in advance should people hire a planner?

For smaller events, 3-6 months, for weddings, 12.


Best advice for a bride-to-be?

Be uniquely you. Put parts of yourself in the design, not a cookie-cutter replica of another event.


What do you wish more people understood about what you do?

Every change changes everything! A chair switch or a flower can affect the entire flow, which requires a lot of time to redesign. Also, so much time and attention is put into every small detail, and when things are picked apart, it most of the time requires a full redesign. 


If you weren’t a planner, what would you be?

I would have an event barn on a farm and host dinner parties/supper clubs. Guests would gather around thoughtfully curated tables, savoring seasonal, farm-to-table dishes and handcrafted cocktails in a warm, inviting atmosphere surrounded by nature. 

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