Newsletter Archive

A young subscriber asked me, “As a hostess, when do I need to offer a coaster, and when do I not need to?!” Oh, this is fun because decorative coasters are a popular gift in the world of pretty accessories… but gift shops will probably not like my answer! Any glass WITH a stem, such as a wine, champagne, or port glass, do NOT need a coaster! A glass WITHOUT a stem, such as a highball, beer glass, or a tall ice tea glass, does require a coaster. Why? Cold drinks, especially with ice cubes, can create condensation and drip onto the surface where they are resting, leaving a watermark… especially on wood or leather-topped tables! Coasters are thought to protect your table from scratches, yet the base of a stemmed glass will not scratch your table (and it is doubtful that a cocktail glass would either).  So, as a

With the holidays now behind us, it’s the perfect time to pick up your pen and acknowledge your gratitude to those who thoughtfully gave you a gift. While sending a quick “thank-you email” might seem like the easiest option, consider forgoing the “digital quick fix“ in favor of something much more personal: a handwritten thank-you note! In today’s fast-paced world, this timeless gesture is a rare and thoughtful treasure for the recipient. There’s something undeniably special about receiving a handwritten note in your mailbox, surrounded by bills and junk mail, don’t you agree?! It appears like a GIFT! The effort you put into writing and mailing the note reflects the appreciation you feel for the recipient’s kindness. It is a personal, tangible way of expressing gratitude. I’ve kept and cherish many notes I have received over the years. Here are some traditional, tried and true guidelines for writing a thank-you

Rejoice for Candlelight! Candlelight symbolizes joy, romance, tranquility, and merriment. Christmas and the start of Hanukkah fall on the same day this year, December 25, 2024, so the topic of “candles” seems fitting. They have long been integral in celebrations, playing an essential part in the rituals of both Christmas and Hanukkah, and continue to have a magical essence while entertaining. This holiday season, let’s light more candles! They have a unique ability to create significant moments, transforming any gathering into something brilliant and celebratory. From churches to dinner parties and even atop birthday cakes, candles have been part of our celebrations for over 5,000 years. As my Mummy always said, “A candlelit dinner magically becomes more memorable!” As a young bride, she shared a secret with me: “Candlelight makes whatever you’re serving taste even better!” That was a golden nugget; it has served me well for fifty years! Here

The holidays are upon us, so here are some of my secrets for creating memories that are merry and bright for your guests! Hosting a dinner party (or inviting houseguests to stay over) is the best way to make your house sparkle… and a clever nudge to get all of the silver polished! Unlock your front door and adhere a small card outside on the door, inviting guests to enter the house without knocking. I always write: “Please, do come in!” This way, they do not feel obliged to stand in the cold elements of Connecticut until the door is answered. Do your very best to greet each guest at the door. And vice versa. At the end of the evening, walk them to the door to say goodbye. Offer ladies to place their purses down on a chair or table, if they wish to. Before your event, ask if

As we embrace and celebrate this joyous season, as in Norman Vincent Peale’s words, “Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.” Use your magic wand to create a few charming “petite vignettes” to add a dash of magic to your home. I’ve found joy in creating sweet, small holiday displays that bring beauty and nostalgia to our home. Sometimes, the most treasured moments come in the tiniest packages, like tender loving gestures. Discovering a few lilliputian-sized, festive displays can be a treasured delight, adding to this season’s magic, while conjuring the lovely memories of Christmases past. It’s the little things that count! Holiday memories are often made of small, meaningful moments. Whether it’s a cherished ornament or a family tradition,  petite decorations offer a graceful nod to the season’s magic. May this holiday be sweeter than sugar plums, filled with joy,

It is December, the season of festive parties! If you are fortunate enough to be invited to a White-tie ball or a formal party, consider wearing opera-length gloves as an elegant accessory with your long gown. As the past Chair of the Salvation Army of Palm Beach County’s “Paradise Ball,” for their centennial White-tie celebration in 2022, I have received questions about the appropriateness of wearing jewelry on top of opera-length gloves. Opera-length gloves reach over the elbow and are the epitome of formal elegance. The answer is yes! One can wear a bracelet on top of an opera glove on either wrist. An evening bracelet may be worn over a glove, but not rings. Rings are worn underneath a glove. Here are a few etiquette guidelines when wearing opera-length gloves: Can you drink with gloves on? Yes, it is acceptable to drink with your gloves on. Can you eat with gloves on?