Holly’s Secret “Simple Strawberry Shortcake Recipe!”
“Simple and summer go together like strawberries and cream.” When my granddaughter Felicity graced us with a visit from Berlin, we embarked on one of our delightful culinary endeavors. We created our secret, signature strawberry shortcake—an all-American “slice of summer” classic—for our family dinner on the verandah at Fox Hall. What’s the simple secret? Bisquick […]
Majestic Menu Cards: An Elegant Touch!
Menu cards are a lovely touch, elevating any occasion and honoring a celebration! These cards serve a practical purpose: informing guests of the courses to come and also, as a subtle alert to potential food allergies. Beyond function, they’re cherished keepsakes, especially when adorned with the event’s date, occasion, or a nod to a guest of […]
Summer House Guests!
Summertime is the perfect time to invite houseguests to stay with you! A dear friend asked me a few questions about having houseguests for Labor Day, and my responses turned into this letter! How long should I invite a couple to stay? How many days and what time should they arrive AND depart? The best […]
The Art of the Impromptu Welcome: A Southern Tradition
When I lived in Richmond, I fondly remember when someone new moved into the neighborhood, the tradition was to make an effort to visit them, bring a homemade southern dish, and introduce yourself. Recently, I received a message from a fellow Farmington Garden Club member, who said she had received a request from a new […]
Wall brackets for well-appointed walls!
A pair of lovely wall brackets will enhance any wall! Wall brackets support three-dimensional artwork such as porcelain vases, sculptures, clocks, and even candlestick holders. They have graced European interiors for centuries. Wall brackets are my go-to decorative element for adding a touch of elegance to a room. Wall brackets give dimension to a wall. […]
Bridal Pictures: How and Where to Display Them
A lovely tradition in classically designed houses is a table devoted to bridal photographs as an homage to various brides within the family tree. In the past, the assembled portraits typically featured only the bride in a formal black-and-white pose, but they have now evolved into pictures of both the bride and groom, presented in […]
Wedding Guests: 5 no-no’s to know!
As I reflected on Alexandra’s magical wedding day in Berlin, I was reminded of how much thought and care goes into making such occasions meaningful. Recently, a bride shared her observations about guest etiquette—things she wished everyone knew. With ‘wedding season’ upon us, here are a few timeless tips and thoughtful reminders for being a […]
Sunglasses: Summer Etiquette!
Both are thoughtfully removed whilst being introduced to another person! Recently, I attended a lovely luncheon fundraiser in Palm Beach, held outside under a charming, fern-adorned canopy by The Colony Hotel’s pool. I was seated at a table with an inspiring and very accomplished group of ladies. The conversation amongst us was informative and most […]
The Cachet of Cachepots!
There certainly is cachet to cachepots! When my daughter received a cachepot as a wedding gift, she turned to me with a puzzled look. “A planter?” she asked as she was composing her thank-you note. I told her, “No, it is called a cachepot.” The look on her face was priceless. “A what? Mummy, is […]
Dog Etiquette for Guests: The Do’s and Don’ts!
“Dogs laugh, but they laugh with their tails.” Max Eastman, American Author As long as I can remember, four-legged furry animals have always made my heart go ‘pitter-patter’ with happiness. I have been fortunate to have always had a dog (and a few cats too). I brought home all kinds of “random treasures” as a […]
Butter makes it better!
In a dash? I usually am! I enjoy cooking for my dinner parties, which is my way of showing love. But, when my travel and time do not allow me to, and a caterer is a must, I still try to make the dessert, create the floral arrangement, and add one more little detail that […]
Gallant Gestures: A Gentleman’s Guide to Opening Doors!
Last week, I wrote about the etiquette of opening doors, which inspired two gentlemen readers to reach out to me. Robert reminded me, “Gentlemen, it is always ‘ladies first’ when exiting an elevator!” Kristopher kindly encouraged me to address manners specific to young gentlemen, to instill awareness of proper “door protocol.” Grand idea! So, dear […]