Newsletter Archive

Last week, Stuart and I had the honor of Chairing “Live Royally!” an extraordinary five-day event that CEO.org (Chief Executives Organization) hosted in England for only 34 members/spouse attendees. Drawing from my experience filming my PBS TV series in England, I was inspired to create a regal yet entertaining and informative experience. The challenge was on! Stuart and I landed in London a few days early to be on our game and adjust to the time. A driver picked us up at Heathrow (4 a.m. our USA time). As we drove toward London, he politely announced, “Mr. and Mrs. Holden, the King is passing us presently on the right side of our vehicle.”  Really? OH, my! There he was in a handsome Rolls with two police escorts. Right on cue, this set the scene perfectly for “Live Royally!” Elizabeth Gage creates uniquely bespoke, hand-made, stunning jewelry; her boutique is in

Secrets to Lovely Living endeavors to cover topics I hope will enrich your life. With that in mind, I am honored to present my daughter, Alexandra, to you. She just may enhance your life! Thank you for indulging me. Vacation gives you time to start implementing simple micro habits, to think about navigating a career move or even pushing out of your comfort zone and finally starting that business you’ve been contemplating! This summer, if you’re pondering questions about your present status, future, or workplace challenges (universal concerns), or if you know someone who is, you may wish to consider hiring a coach. From recent college graduates to established CEOs, we all face challenges at some point. My daughter, Alexandra Terhalle, is a University of Cambridge-certified Coach dedicated to helping professionals all over the world, at all levels, find clarity and purpose, unlocking their unlimited potential. Her expertise, which includes Executive Coaching, Relocation

Consider adding even more charm to your Powder Room walls with lovely artwork. Typically, most guests do not expect to discover important artwork in a Powder Room!  While silver picture frames, replete with meaningful photographs, pique the curiosity of your guests in other rooms, pretty Powder Rooms can be the perfect backdrop to display some of your most alluring artwork for guests to admire unexpectedly… albeit privately! Both photographs and artwork are what I refer to as “subtle bragging rights.” Nothing is overtly prominent but, instead, discreetly intriguing to others.  Photographs in your house offer a peek at important moments.  Artwork, especially in a Powder Room, can be a surprise, revealing your interests, family background, or personal stories. A Powder Room is intended for guests.  This is where ladies powder their noses and apply pink lipstick… in private. Think of the walls as premium space to be clever and reveal

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 only featured the bride in a formal black-and-white pose, but they have now morphed into pictures of the bride and groom in black-and-white and also in color. Bridal photographs are traditionally grouped together and displayed in the living room on a side table, a grand piano, or a table behind a sofa. Formal bridal portrait photographs in English country houses and palaces are traditionally black and white or in a sepia tone. The formality of the house and the photograph dictate the style of the picture frame, which can be ornate or sleek and modern. The most traditional bridal picture frame is sterling silver or silver-plated. A French enamel frame is another stunning choice. Italian fine leather with gold embellishments or antique gilded frames

Why is June the most popular month for getting married?  June is derived from Juno, the goddess of marriage and the protector of women. A wedding in June is considered auspicious, so the couple will be blessed with happiness! How grateful I am to have such a tradition-minded, international audience who takes the time to share their thoughts and experiences with me! Case in point: while wearing an ALL-white outfit as a guest attending a wedding in the USA is a no-no, bridesmaids have often worn white in British weddings. The Late Queen Elizabeth II chose white for her bridesmaids, which continues to be a common practice in the UK. Royal wedding participants, i.e., Maid of Honor, Bridesmaids, and usually the children. It is a tradition from centuries ago when they believed white would repel evil spirits. I did not explain this before, so thank you, B.M. and L.C. Wish to

Love, laughter, and a “happily ever after!” It’s June, the month of roses and weddings! Being a guest at a wedding is a treat, but more importantly, witnessing a marriage ceremony is an honor. Several mother-of-the-bride subscribers have shared their experiences with me about what a guest should NOT do at a wedding!  Weddings are truly personal. Times have changed, from pink wedding dresses to ceremonies under the sea. Today, anything goes.  But for those of you whom cherish tradition, here are some “No-Nos,” as a little reminder, for guests attending a wedding. No-no: To not follow the dress code. What IS done: When in doubt, contact the bride or the mother of the bride to determine what to wear. If the invitation indicates a term you are unsure of, such as “resort chic,” be sure to ask what is expected for attire! No-No:  For a lady guest to wear ALL white. What