Silver Cloth

“Everything tastes better when served on silver!” That is the advice Mummy gave me as a young bride. I have always had a penchant for entertaining with silver… I imagine my grandmother and parents passed this gene down to me. 

Keeping silver polished? It is a labor of love! It brings to mind the old saying, "Tarnish?! What in tarnation?!“

BUT, I have a secret technique to share with you. It will help to keep the tarnish at bay! I highly recommend purchasing tarnish-preventative flannel cloth by the yard.  It helps to keep tarnish away while storing silver. Buy enough fabric to cover the tops and undersides of your pieces. I tuck my silver serving pieces into the safety of their little non-tarnish beds. I line the inside of a few drawers in the butler’s pantry with enough extra fabric to pull over the top of them and tuck them in! Here is an Amazon LINK. 

Do not be tempted to wash this tarnish-preventative fabric, or you’ll wash away the tarnish-preventing qualities! 

You can also cut pieces big enough to cover pieces you leave out when you travel or are away for extended periods. For example, a candelabra, large tureens, or even a medley of silver picture frames. Buy enough yardage to cut and drape over your pieces. Or buy premade bags.  

Silver pieces can also be wrapped in acid-free tissue paper and placed in a ziploc bag.  Another secret is adding a piece of chalk (like school blackboard chalk!) to the bag. The chalk will help keep the tarnish and humidity down. 

Tarnish-free strips are available online and can be added to flatware and jewelry boxes.  

The Royal Butler, Grant Harrold, and I had an interview together HERE in England. He suggests polishing your silver, tightly wrapping it in plastic wrap, and storing it in a cool place.  As long as it is tightly wrapped, tarnish will not occur, and it will be as bright as the day you wrapped it… easy peasy!  Thank you, Grant! 

Serve something on silver tonight… and see if it doesn’t taste better!  

Xx 

Holly

PS Please be a dear and share these secrets with some friends. Perhaps they will subscribe, too! 

A Coaster Conundrum: When should you use a coaster for a drink?

Coasters come in all shapes, sizes, and designs. When should you offer a coaster to your guests?

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! 

One of the engraved silver coasters I inherited from Mummy continues to be used under the iced stemless glass for drinks in the living room, and for iced water on the dining room table. 

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 hostess, relax; scratches will not happen from a stemmed glass!

My rule of thumb? A coaster should be offered only to guests with STEMLESS glasses!  

When a cocktail napkin is offered, and you wish to set your drink down, it can be placed under a stemmed glass as a matched set until you pick it up again. (The cocktail napkin would be placed beside the coaster for a stemless glass.) 

Silver wine coasters are a charming way to dress your dining table appropriately to hold a bottle of wine or decanter. The bottom of most wine coasters continue to have a soft felt bottom… in case you wish to “coast” your wine down the table! 

The history of the “coaster” is intriguing! The term “coaster” was coined with reference to ships, referred to as “coasters,” going coast to coast in the 1700s. In well-to-do European houses, a custom started in the mid-1700s when a “coaster” was used to slide or “coast” a bottle of wine or a decanter across the dining room table on a tray (made of silver or wood) to late-night guests to serve themselves libations after the staff had retired for the evening. The tray had a soft fabric applied to the bottom to slide or “coast” across the wood table surface  (without a tablecloth) easily.  

And on a personal note, my heart goes out to all those in LA who have lost their homes in the devastating and catastrophic fires. I’m so terribly sorry and have you in my heartfelt prayers and send my love. 

Xx Holly

PS: My Instagram “coaster” video is HERE.   Please be a dear and inspire a friend to subscribe by forwarding this letter to them. 

The Timeless Charm of Handwritten Thank-You Notes: Gratitude in Words

Bespoke stationery makes for a thoughtful gift, perfect for family, friends, or newlyweds. I take great joy in selecting from my collection of writing paper, which I've accumulated over the years.

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 note: 

Ink & Writing Instrument:

Ideally, use a fountain pen with blue or black ink. I personally enjoy using pink ink for dear friends. It’s a bit less formal, but still elegant. If you don’t own a fountain pen, a rolling ball pen is a sophisticated alternative to a standard ballpoint.

From fine point to bold, I enjoy choosing from various nibs on my fountain pens for my notes.

Timing:

Aim to write and send your thank-you note within 48 hours of receiving a gift or hospitality. While this 48-hour rule tends to be more lenient nowadays, it’s important to send your note as soon as possible… just make the effort!

Personalization:

A meaningful thank-you note goes beyond just the words “thank you.” Be specific about why you’re grateful. Mention how you plan to use the gift, or explain what made their hospitality so memorable. 

Here are a few old-school references to know:

A “Bread-and-Butter” Note:

A term often used to describe a thank-you note sent after a dinner party or for hospitality. It's a nod to the tradition of being thankful for the simple but important gestures of kindness.

Writing Paper:

In England, stationery, or notepaper, is referred to as writing paper—a charming, old-fashioned British term.

A line through your name:

Drawing a line through your name when a title is indicated (Mr., Mrs., Dr., Countess, etc.) is an old-school nod indicating that you are on more personal and less formal terms with the recipient. 

Forbidden Faux Pas: 

No-no: To buy writing paper or a card with the words "thank you" printed on the front. The message of appreciation should come from you, not the stationery/card company! 

No-no: To write a note with the first sentence starting with the word "I.” This gives the impression that you are more important than the person you are writing to.

No-no: To write your note with "Thank you" as the first two words. Instead, make an effort to share your delight and explain what you are thanking the recipient for, and then express your thanks.

No-no: To think that an email thank-you note is a sufficient expression of gratitude after attending a dinner party. The time and effort a hostess (or host) puts into a party for your pleasure should inspire you to hand write a thank-you note and share your sincere recognition with them. 

No-no: ​To think brides have up to one year to write a thank-you note (according to etiquette books). A thoughtful bride will send a thank-you note within three months of receiving a wedding gift.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

GrandMillennial Tips:

For Young Children:

For little ones who can’t yet write a thank-you note, a creative way to express gratitude is through their artwork. Parents can help by sending a piece of their child’s creation to the recipient. It’s a simple but meaningful gesture that conveys love and appreciation, and it's sure to warm the recipient’s heart! 

A Personal Touch:

If the recipient lives nearby, consider hand-delivering your thank-you note. There's something uniquely endearing about seeing “By hand” written on the corner of an envelope and is such a thoughtful touch!

In 2025, the timeless charm of handwriting thank-you notes may seem old-fashioned. However, in an era of instant communication, a handwritten note stands out as a true gesture of thoughtfulness and appreciation. It is a timeless way to show someone you value them, and it will undoubtedly be treasured far longer than a digital message!

Happy New Year Wishes! 

To my incredibly talented and clever team—Kristen, Sabrena, Jenn, and Whitney—thank you for making the magic happen behind the scenes for my SLL letters and Instagram posts. Your creativity and dedication is pure JOY. I am so grateful for each of you! 

And to you, my dear readers and sponsors, I want you to know just how much I appreciate your continued support. Your encouragement means the world to me; you have helped “lovely living” grow internationally. Thank you! I look forward to meeting more of you in 2025! 

Xx 

Holly 

The Magic of Candlelight: Merry and Bright!

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. 

A handsome Georgian Irish oval, candlelit mirror, c.1790, from Fileman Antiques, England., has transcended time with its classical design.

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 is a candle secret for you for your dinner table! My dear friend, Janice Q. from Palm Beach, shared: "Candles should be tall enough that the flame is above your guests’ faces, so it doesn’t cast shadows. Holly, if you don’t believe me, try lighting a candle in a dark room and look at yourself in the mirror. The higher you place it, the better you’ll look!" I did, and guess what? She is right… an easy and magical way of flattering everyone at the table. Tonight, give it a whirl with taller candles! 

A Georgian, candlelit gilt girandole in the dining room at Fox Hall reflects the crystal chandelier in the distance.

GrandMillenial Tips

-Beware of air conditioning or open window breezes, which can wreak havoc on lit candles. I learned this lesson the hard way. An A/C vent in our Palm Beach home blew downward on the dining room wall sconces, causing the wax to drip onto the silk seats of a pair of Hepplewhite chairs. Let’s just say it was a rawwwther expensive dinner party!

Our dinner guest, the Duchess of Rutland, Emma Manners, in our dining room in Palm Beach, discussing the color on the ceiling. (Can you spy the vexing A/C vent above us?)

-Place your candles in front of a mirror to double the effect of your candles. This technique has been used for centuries to create a stunning visual display. Edith Wharton once said, “There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or… the mirror that reflects it.” While filming my television series with Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill, I marveled at the candlelit candelabras in front of a pair of pier mirrors placed between the windows in the private dining room at Blenheim Palace. You can see this in the PBS television series I hosted here. 

-For candle wax mishaps on your table, don’t fret! A rubber pancake spatula is forgiving and perfect for scraping wax drips off. It's a small trick that can save you from scratching your table with a knife.

A Forbidden Faux Pas

No-no: To have a white, unblackened wick on a candle. An old-school secret tradition I was taught is that candles should always have their “white wick” blackened before installing them in a candlestick holder, candelabra, or chandelier. This small but traditional secret detail indicates that a candle isn’t just for show— it is meant to be used.

Why are white or ivory candles still the most appropriate choice for formal settings? The reason behind this dates back to candle history. Candles were initially made from tallow (animal fat or oils), but beeswax was introduced in the Middle Ages as a more refined alternative. Beeswax candles have a natural honey color, but they were sun-bleached to a pale shade to make them more affordable. Due to their higher cost, white and ivory candles were considered luxurious and used primarily in noble residences, palaces, and churches. Today, white candles continue to evoke elegance and tradition, making them the perfect choice for any occasion. They are my candle color of choice. 

Embrace the beauty of candlelight, creating a festive and joyful atmosphere. May your holidays be merry and bright... with even more candlelight!

Thank you, dear ones, for your continued support and encouragement. I am genuinely grateful to all of you! 

Xx 

Holly

PS: What a gift if you could kindly inspire just one new friend to subscribe!

"Holly-Day" Dinner Parties: How to be the hostess with the mostess!

Fox Hall, during the Christmas season, is magical, merry, and bright, especially in candlelight. My dear grandchildren decorated the table for this dinner party, hence the army of nutcrackers… I didn't know I had so many! 

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 your guests have any food dislikes or allergies, or if they are vegetarians. It's always better to know in advance and be prepared!

You may have guests who prefer non-alcoholic drinks; be sure to have something else to serve them. One of our friends adores ginger beer, a non-alcoholic drink that I keep on hand for him. 

The festive “holly” embellished linens were a hostess gift from a dear friend. I think of her every time I use them in December. This is a lovely gift-giving idea to remember!

Write your guest’s names on their placecards and take time to decide, when you have a moment, the best seating plan for conversation among your guests. The Gentleman guest of honor is seated to the right of the hostess. The Lady guest of honor is seated to the right of the host.  

Replenish your candlesticks, if they are less than halfway down, with new white candles. Remember, always to blacken the wicks… this is an old-school tradition! Blackened wicks indicate that you know candles are not just decorative accessories; they are used. 

Lower the lights in the evening, and remember, candlelight is not only romantic but also enhances everyone’s appearance AND makes everything taste better, too!

Wine bottles are either placed on a wine coaster or, more formally, poured into crystal decanters. Traditionally, a bottle of wine or decanter is placed on either end of the dining room table. My book, The Pretty and Proper Living Room, discusses this tradition in more detail. 

If there is no waitstaff, the host pours the wine. But if the host is in deep conversation or busy, any gentleman guest may take it upon himself to pour the wine for guests seated next to him, serving others before he serves himself.

For large parties, with guests that have never been to your house, have a little card indicating “Powder Room” on the door. It is thoughtful, especially if it is next to another door you don’t want anyone to enter. Guests do not want to have to ask. 

If you plan to have a fire in the fireplace, ensure your house remains cool enough that your guests, especially those seated near the fireplace, do not swelter from the heat.

Forbidden Faux Pas:

No-no: A centerpiece that is so high that it restricts guests' views of one another. Keep your centerpieces low so your guests can enjoy their conversation and have eye contact across the table with other guests.  

No-no: To have your dog or cat greet your guests. Your pets should be put away in another room. Not everyone is an animal lover, and some people may have allergies or be afraid of animals. (Miss Zsa Zsa, our Jack Russell Terrier, does not concur with this no-no!) 

No-no: To place your phone on the dining room table. If a guest has a babysitter or needs to be on call, they should tell the hostess they may need access to their phone and place it in their pocket or lap (with vibration on, no ringer).

No-no: Playing music too loud.  If dinner music is played, it should be so soft that everyone can carry on a normal conversation. Nothing is more disturbing than being unable to carry on a civilized conversation and being forced to raise one’s voice due to the overzealous sound of music. (We have all experienced that dreadful challenge at wedding receptions!)

May the joyful sound of laughter and merriment fill your house this season. Cheers! 

Xx

Holly

PS: My Equestrian Collection, a five piece premium, dishwasher safe porcelain, is on a “secret give-away” sale price. Take a peek at www.ShopHollyHolden.com. What a splendid gift, if I do say so myself, for anyone who appreciates anything horsey!

For an inscribed gift copy of my first book, place your order on Amazon soon!  

The Magic of Petite Christmas Decorations!

For our first Christmas at Fox Hall, we went all out with a 15-foot live tree that touched the ceiling of our living room! But after two weeks, the branches became so stiff that when we went to take it down, our son had to use a chainsaw to get it out the door. That’s when we decided to switch to an artificial tree!

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. 

Every year, a collection of miniature Austrian bronze deer make a quiet appearance on the sideboard in our dining room. They graze peacefully near a tiny candle tree, a nod to the elegance and tranquility of Christmas.

Joy to the world! My childhood beloved set of angels, once owned by my grandmother, dance around a petite tree in the front hall. Their well-worn patina brings memories of the Velveteen Rabbit, and their simple charm never fails to inspire happy thoughts.

One of my most cherished traditions is winding up this miniature musical tree, a keepsake that fills the room with soft, sweet music. As the first note plays, I can almost feel my parents' presence with me in spirit, while I arrange the delicate hand-carved angel orchestra from Germany, each piece a reminder of love and tradition.

Even the tiniest touches can add festive cheer. I often place an ornament, like this little Herend bunny elf, on a tray of hors d’oeuvres. A dab of poster board clay at the base keeps it from tipping over, and the gold-tipped shoes add a whimsical, merry touch.

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, love, and treasured “little” moments.

Xx

Holly

PS- A thoughtful holiday gift for equestrian lovers! There are a few EQUESTRIAN COLLECTION 5-piece porcelain sets available with a “secret price” only for you. See it on Instagram here.  HO, Ho, ho!  “On a one-horse open sleigh!”

Glove Glam: Jewelry and Opera Gloves!

A pinnacle of regal elegance, HM The Late Queen Elizabeth II, remains in our hearts worldwide.

Photo Source: @british.royal.crown- Instagram 

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.

Stuart and I attended an elegant “pink-themed” dinner dance with Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill at Blenheim Palace in Woodstock, England, this past July 2024. It was a most magical evening.
Photo credit: Mark Forbes. 

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?

No! Eating with gloves on, whether standing or seated at a dining table, is not done. 

So, how does a lady eat when wearing opera gloves?

The mousquetaire “button” option allows one to unbutton the buttons under one's wrist and semi-remove one's gloves, so the hand is glove-free to dine. Once the buttons are undone, a lady can pull her hand out from the opening and neatly tuck the remainder of the glove up the wrist and inside the gloves.  

Alternatively, one may gracefully remove the gloves by gently pushing the arm portion toward the wrist while pulling each finger until the glove slips off.  

If the gloves do not have the mousquetaire buttons, where does one place the evening gloves once they are removed while seated at a formal dinner? 

After you remove your gloves, fold them in half and place them on your lap with your napkin over them. You may remove the gloves before being seated or at the dinner table. 

After dinner, one may put the gloves back on by placing the hand in and working the glove up from the wrist, then gradually smoothing the glove up the arm. Try not to pull from the top. 

May I wear gloves other than white?

Opera-length gloves can be made of leather, silk, or satin.  The most traditional, and my preference, are elegant “white leather, full-length opera gloves with mousquetaire.”  Cornelia James holds a Royal Warrant and made gloves for the late Queen Elizabeth for over 70 years.  

Do you want to cover your arm completely with your opera gloves?

No, a bit of your arm should be showing.  So, if you have a capped sleeve, you may wish to rouche the top of the opera-length glove down a bit because a portion of the arm should always be visible. 

Do you wear evening gloves while dancing?

Yes, indeed!

Should you wear your formal gloves when shaking hands or while standing in a receiving line? 

Yes, you may shake hands with evening gloves on, except when shaking hands with the President, the First Lady, or a high-ranking church or government official. 

Should you take your glove off when presenting your hand to be kissed? 

You may keep your glove on when a gentleman is kissing your hand. This is such a charming, old-world European tradition. I will never forget when my German son-in-law kissed my hand upon our first meeting… I thought to myself, "He is a keeper." And he is! 

When our youngest daughter Caroline (in white) made her debut at The Infirmary Ball in New York City, it was a few days before Christmas. Family and friends came from afar to celebrate with us, and it was the perfect occasion to wear opera-length gloves.

Discussing various aspects of old-world elegance is a delight and a gracious time when gentle manners mattered. Let’s keep these traditions alive!  

Xx 

Holly

PS: Please take a peek at the bracelets that my sponsor, Elizabeth Gate has to offer- each one a work of masterpiece art. 

Holly's Secret Sourthern "Cheese Crispies"

These Cheese Crispies were made in the “dollop-style,” not perfectly rolled into little balls!

My Cheese Crispies are the perfect nibble to offer your guests upon arrival for cocktail hour. They are my signature hors d’oeuvre!  Not only are they delicious, but they are also easy to make, store well in the refrigerator, and freeze well. They never fail to garner oodles of compliments! 

This recipe is simple to remember:

1 cup + 1 cup + 1 cup + 1 stick of butter = only four ingredients 

(Add a few dashes of red pepper flakes, too)

You can make them ahead of time and either keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator (they keep for a month) or place them in a Ziploc baggie and freeze them! 

You may reheat them in the oven, just long enough to be warm, but they are also delicious cold. Are you in a pinch for time, or do you have friends dropping in for an impromptu drink? Pull them out of the refrigerator and microwave for 30 seconds to quickly warm them. 

Holly’s Secret Southern “Cheese Crispies”

Heat oven to 350 degrees 

1 cup (filled up) sharp cheddar cheese at room temperature

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 stick of salted butter- softened

1 cup rice crispies 

Add a pinch of salt (optional) and a generous sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Step 1: Mix everything in a food processor until a soft ball forms, except for the rice crispies. 

Step 2: Add a pinch of salt. Sprinkle in red pepper flakes to give as much “kick” as you desire!

Step 3: Pulse in the rice crispies until mixed in the dough. (You want the rice crispies to remain semi-crunchy!) 

Form the dough into teaspoon-sized balls or dollop a teaspoon-sized amount onto the greased cookie sheet. They can be placed ½” apart, as they don’t spread out. 

Sprinkle a little more red pepper flakes on top before baking. You can decide how spicy you want them! 

Bake at 350 degrees for about 8-14 minutes, until lightly browned.  

This makes about 24-30 balls, depending on the size. Serve warm, preferably.  

Note: Why not make two batches at a time while you're at it? Then, you’ll have some “inventory on hand” to serve at a moment's notice. 

These cheese crispies were rolled into little balls instead of dollops, but my mouse loves them either way! 

Let a little Herend mouse hop onto your serving plate for the perfect whimsical adornment. Your guests will gobble these up, I promise! Happy Thanksgiving! 

Xx 

Holly 

PS Please take a peek at my fabulous sponsors and forward this recipe to a friend. Perhaps they will be inspired to subscribe too! 

THE Holly-Jolly Christmas Gift Guide!

My first book, The Pretty and Proper Living Room, now in its second printing, will be HALF PRICE for today and tomorrow, November 18th and 19th! (Retail $55, sale $28)  I wrote this book for my daughter, Alexandra, when she first married. She asked me how to decorate her first “big girl house” to look like the house she grew up in, and requested that I include the Forbidden Faux Pas too!   

Holly-Jolly Christmas Days! With a name like Holly, you can understand how much I adore this magical time of year. 'Tis the season of giving. Many of you have asked me to share some of my go-to gift items… so Ho-Ho-Ho, let’s go! 

 🎄Holly’s Gifts 2024 🎄
(Presents for both naughty and nice!)

1. A set of four Sterling Silver Studs are handsomely detailed with an enameled design and made in England. Their price point makes them perfect for traveling over “Hill and Dale” to a Black tie event anywhere in the world! 

2. A pair of classic Fox Head men's slippers (a staple at Fox Hall!) are comfy for lounging and stunningly attractive. They would be perfect for twirling around the Christmas tree and kissing under the mistletoe. 

3. This dapper Nickle Fox Head Umbrella will be a well-appointed accessory for your sleigh, ready to fend off rain or snow elegantly. It will also be a smashing addition to a front-door umbrella stand.

4. Here is a clever “town & country”  accessory- a pair of Sterling Silver and Enamel Fox Head Cufflinks. They give a quiet, yet sensibly sly, nod to England, even though they are handmade in Italy!  

5. I inherited Mummy’s gold Christmas Tree, just like this one. It is, without a doubt, my most favorite Christmas decoration. Once it is on our coffee table on December first, I almost hear the angels singing! It is such a lovely gift for someone who has everything.  

6. Happy tulips!  A set of pink round tablemats and coasters say “Happy Spring” all year long! I adore these because I can quickly set the table, wipe them off as needed (as in when the grandchildren visit!), and also feel that I am in an English country house, even in Palm Beach. They are a timeless classic for your table any time of day. 

7. For that “special” son or son-in-law, this set of Mother of Pearl and Sapphire Studs will be a handsomely festive gift that will last a lifetime. 

8. I adore Weezie Towels! Their Bow Towel is perfect for a powder room, as well as the kitchen. They are soft and beautifully appointed with various monogram styles, including applique, and feature a sweet edging to complement your color scheme.  My video about “whose initials go first for a married couple’s monogram” for their Master Bedroom and Bathroom towels is on Instagram. 

Please use code HOLLY15 to receive 15% off your Weezie order. No minimums, one use per customer. The code is active 11/18/24 - 11/29/24

9. This enchanting hat, by designer Leslie Dasch’s fabulous brand, “Dress for Cocktails,”features a stylish array of preppy-colored bows that can be magnetically interchanged to complement any outfit. I adore her hats in Palm Beach and in New England. When Leslie created a “Holly Holden Bow” in my signature pink edged in green, I was tickled pink! If you order her hat with a Holly Bow, you will also receive a free additional bow in the color of your choice too! A ribbon inside the hat adjusts the size, allowing it to fit anyone properly. Use code: HOLLYHOLIDAY when ordering from their website. 
 

The vendors above offer stellar products and charmingly professional customer service. I am proud to share my 10 secret gift choices with you!  If you want to give yourself a stylish gift, order a divinely bespoke or ready-to-wear outfit, peek at: Holly Holden Collection with Gramercy Atelier. You will be the sparkle at any event. 

Happy Christmas, as they say in England! 

Xx

Holly

PS: Perhaps you can share this letter HERE with a friend who may be inspired to subscribe. The more the merrier! 

Patricia's Apple Pie

At a recent dinner party in Palm Beach, I served this pie recipe and, as usual, it was a resounding hit! 

As a bride of 21, Stuart and I drove to Michigan after our honeymoon, where my darling new husband studied for his MBA.  It was a long way from my home in Virginia. We moved into not-so-glamorous married-student housing, which to us, was glorious! We didn’t know a soul there.   Gratefully, Stuart introduced me to one of his classmates, Ricardo Mayer, and his wife, Patricia, another newlywed couple from Rio de Janeiro. They instantly became (lifelong)  friends, and are Godparents to our son. 

Patricia and I decided to host a dinner every other Saturday night so we could learn to cook various dishes, with the prerequisite being that we had to cook something we had never made before. Well, we had some interesting high and low notes, as you can imagine!  But, one dessert Patricia made in particular was a huge hit… simply divine! We forever referred to it as “Patricia’s Apple Pie!”

A year later, we moved to Connecticut, where I joined the Junior League. One evening, a member called me before their big “bake-off” competition event and asked me to contribute a dessert. It was late, but I just happened to have the cream cheese and apples, and the other ingredients are always a constant in my kitchen. So, that night, I made “Patricia’s Apple Pie.”

Guess what… I WON!🎉

The Hartford Courant Newspaper was there to cover the story and photograph me with the winning dessert!  They asked if I would share my recipe.  I thought it was an old family recipe, so I felt obliged to ask Patricia first before I gave it away.  I rang her in Rio, and with her charming South American accent, she said, “Oh, Holy, (love how she pronounces my name!) no, this is not a family recipe. I cut it out of a Philadelphia Cream Cheese advertisement in The New York Times!” I responded, “Really? Ha, I had no idea!” I tweaked the recipe just enough for it to officially become “Patricia’s” Apple Pie, and it is indeed, a WINNER!

While there are three steps to making it, it is easy to do the second time after you have made it once.  It looks more like a tart or deep-dish pie than a traditional “pie.”  This is our family’s most favorite apple dessert; it is always served at Thanksgiving, along with a pumpkin pie, of course!

Patricia’s Apple Pie!

Heat the oven to 450 degrees.

Part I

½ cup butter

⅓ cup sugar

¼ tsp vanilla

½  tsp almond extract 

1 cup all-purpose flour

Part II

8 oz cream cheese, softened

¼ cup sugar

1 egg

½ tsp vanilla

½ tsp almond extract

Part III

¾ cup sugar

2 tsp cinnamon 

Dash of ground cloves or allspice

3-5 peeled apples, sliced

Optional: ¼ cup sliced almonds

Step I: Cream butter, sugar, vanilla and almond extract with an electric mixer. Blend in flour. Spread on the bottom and sides of a 9” springform pan. 

Step II: Beat the cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the egg, vanilla, and almond extracts and pour the mixture into a pastry-lined springform pan. 

Step III: Combine sugar, cinnamon, and cloves in a bowl. Press each apple slice into this mixture and arrange in circles over the cream cheese mixture until the entire surface is covered. (This is the time consuming part!) Optional: Sprinkle with sliced almonds. 

Bake at 450 degrees for 10 minutes.  Then reduce heat to 400 degrees and bake for 25-35 minutes, or more, until lightly browned.

- FYI Place the springform pan on a baking sheet lined with foil because occasionally some butter leaks out while baking. This will save you from cleaning it up on the bottom of the oven! 

Let it cool a bit before using a knife to loosen the sides of the pie. Then, remove the collar of the springform pan. Do not try to remove the bottom of the pan; just serve from it. I place the pie onto a pretty serving plate to serve.  

Here is my Instagram version!

This is incredibly yummy when served warm with a dollop of French Vanilla ice cream! I hope you enjoy it too, any time of year. Thank YOU, Patricia!

Xx

Holly

PS Please take a peek at my fabulous sponsors and forward this recipe to a friend. Perhaps they will be inspired to subscribe too! 

Election Day! How to Properly Fly Your Flag!

Stuart and I are proud to live in the historic village of Farmington, settled in 1640. American flags hang on the street poles along Main Street from May until September, and we hang ours over the front door at Fox Hall most of the year.

November 5th, 2024 is Election Day!

In 1789, the first presidential election took place, and George Washington was elected President of the United States.  Voting is an extraordinary privilege in the United States. Since 1776, we Americans have celebrated a “star-spangled,” Independence Day in America. Now, more than ever, we need to vote. Let’s celebrate America with extra vigor. Perhaps we will all be inspired to proudly display an American flag to honor our great country and our right to vote. Flying a flag, the emblem of our identity as a sovereign nation, honors our great country. 

The protocol for hanging a flag:

-When a flag is projected out from a building on a pole, the Union (the blue background with 50 stars to commemorate our states) should be at the top and in front of the pole…you know this!  

-Where does the Union go if you hang the American flag vertically on a wall? It is placed at the top and should be to the observer’s left!

The protocol for a flag displayed on a flagpole at night:

-A flag should be lit up if displayed outside at night. (I confess, the floodlight for our flag, which hangs over the front door at Fox Hall, is on a timer, which turns off at midnight!) 

The protocol for when a flag is being hoisted up a flagpole:

-Spectators not in military uniform should face the flag and place their right hand over their hearts. 

-If a gentleman is wearing a hat, it is removed and held in his hand over his heart.

-Military spectators in uniform should render the military salute. 

-Members of the armed forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may give the military salute.

My father served in the U.S. Army. He taught me to respect our flag and appreciate our voting privileges as Americans. Stuart and I have traditionally brought our children when we voted, even as babies in baskets! In our historic village of Farmington, aka “Charmington,” flags are hung on alternating street poles along Main Street. This admirable patriotic display constantly reminds us of our freedom as a democratic nation. 

Happy Election Day! 

God Bless America! 

Xx

Holly

Halloween Decorating: An Elegant Approach!

The English tea table in the foyer at Fox Hall is decorated with a quiet nod to Halloween.

 BOO!

On Halloween, I prefer to decorate my home “bewitchingly beautiful” rather than with a spooky, larger-than-life scary theme. I have never been keen on over-the-top Halloween decorations, probably because my parents did not advocate that kind of decorating. Not to say that it is not amusing to see others who embrace skeletons and giant spiderwebs, but for me, a more elegant Halloween celebratory style is what I prefer to create for Fox Hall. 

As a child, I carved pumpkins and went trick-or-treating, the same traditions we continue to enjoy with our now extended family.  When our three children were young, it was a treat to make their costumes (you don’t see much of that anymore) and also to recycle some of my own costumes that I wore as a child, including a formal Japanese kimono (wig and all), a colorful Hawaiian grass skirt, and a much-loved Dutch girl outfit. 

Our longstanding “Holden family” tradition for dinner on Halloween Eve? Hamburgers and milkshakes. There is nothing like indulging in a chocolate milkshake just before commencing this candy-gathering evening… so why not go all out on the sugary aspect, right?!

My secret for Halloween decorating? I relish repurposing several decorative items I find around the house and adorning them with a Halloween flair. It is SO easy to embellish a Staffordshire dog with an orange ribbon collar, collect fall-colored mums from the garden to make an arrangement, use a silver Revere bowl filled with colorful gourds, and fill a silver basket with candy corn.  I want the Halloween aura to feel fashionably festive, not scary!

Four years ago, my daughter-in-law Karen (then expecting our grandson), and I made a video about Halloween decorating. The YouTube video shares some tips for creating a festive Halloween atmosphere without going “overboard scary!”  You’ll see firsthand our “Victor the Vulture.” Even though he is over 30 years old and rather feather-bare, he festively flies in to perch at the front door of Fox Hall, where he greets trick-or-treaters on Halloween Eve. 

Besides Victor, my darling husband Stuart also enjoys greeting the children.  He turns out the lights in the front hall, slowly walks to the door with heavy foot stomps and a lit candelabra in hand, and boldly inquires, “Who’s…. there?!!” while slowly opening the door.  Then, he jovially offers his favorite candy (BIG Snickers bars), and the children all love it! 

So, what about you? How do you decorate for Halloween?

I hope you have a “boo-utiful” Halloween!

Xx, Holly

PS: Please inspire a friend to subscribe by forwarding this letter to them! 

Do you need to write a thank-you note for a "Hostess Gift?"

It is nowhere near the holidays, but giving my book, with a personal inscription, is one of my go-to hostess gifts any time of year!

Who doesn’t love to be surprised by a thoughtful hostess gift from a guest when they enter your house for a party? A hostess gift is not a requirement; it is simply a lovely gesture to show appreciation for the invitation.

One of my darling Virginia subscribers asked me this question below:

“We are fortunate to invite lovely friends to our parties who bring various hostess gifts. I am one to send a handwritten note to thank each person for their thoughtfulness. Once, I mailed a thank you note for a hostess gift, and the recipient responded — via text — chastising me for sending a thank you before she could even get hers written and in the mail. [Ironically, I never received a handwritten note from her!!!]  So, should I wait a week after the event to send thank you notes for hostess gifts, or should I mail them promptly after the event?”

This prompted me to consider and debate the following: Is it required to write a note to thank a guest who brings you a “hostess gift?”

I do not believe there is a proper yes or no to this question; it is more of a personal preference.  Acknowledging any gift verbally or with a note is always thoughtful, though! 

Here are some examples of hostess gifts that I have given: Countess Grey loose tea from Fortnum & Mason, notecards from the Blenheim Palace gift store, chocolate sauce (when I do not have time to make it!) from Teuscher- NYC, notecards from Smythson Bond Street in London, and playing cards from Tiffany & Company. 

As a recipient of many “hostess gifts,” my rule of thumb is to write a thank you note for gifts that I consider to be “somewhat extravagant, or exceptionally meaningful,” such as an elegant picture frame with a relevant photograph enclosed, an Assouline-published coffee table book, or an exceptional floral arrangement delivered to the door the day before the event. I will make an effort to write a thank you note of appreciation to the guest and mail it within a few days of my event.   

Alternatively, I usually do not write to thank the guests for the tried-and-true quintessential hostess gifts such as a bottle of wine, elegant soaps, a box of chocolates, homemade jam, local honey, imported olive oil, or a bouquet from the garden. Instead, I make a point of thanking them verbally, either in person or over the phone, and share how much I have enjoyed the chocolates, jam, etc. A hostess gift is a sweet way for a guest to say “thank you” in advance for your hospitality, and they do not expect a note back, even though it is always a kind gesture! 

Sometimes, guests will slip a hostess gift somewhere in the house for me to find the next day… I discovered this box of chocolates leaning next to a reindeer in our kitchen. It was undoubtedly well-received by our family! 

 Attach a note or gift tag indicating your name on or in a hostess gift. It can be disconcerting to figure out who gave you the gift. This darling topiary tag is from WH Hostess.

 GrandMillenial Tips:

~ If you receive a bottle of wine or champagne as a hostess gift, try to purposely serve it to the person who gave it to you in the future.  Make a date to drink it together.

~ When I give a bottle of champagne, I use a gold felt pen to sign on the glass portion of the bottle with “Cheers!” or “Happy Birthday!” adding a “Xoxo Holly & Stuart.”

Forbidden Faux Pas:

No-No: To expect the hostess or host to open the gift upon your arrival.

What is done:  If the hostess wishes to open your gift and is not busy greeting other guests, it is thoughtful for the hostess to ask, “May I open your gift now?”  Sometimes, the gift giver would prefer that you open their gift after they have left. 

No-No: Expecting the hostess or host to serve the wine, champagne, or chocolate you brought them at their event.  

What is done: Let the hostess serve what she has planned to serve for the event. She will incorporate your gift if she wants to.  

So, with the above in mind, cheers to more parties!

Xx 

Holly

PS: Please inspire a friend to subscribe by forwarding this letter to them! 

Super Simple and Decadent Hot Chocolate Sauce!

It is always a joy to cook with my grandchildren! Miss Charlotte lives up the street from us in Farmington, so we often enjoy making recipes together for parties at Fox Hall. 

Are guests coming over? Do you need a decadent dessert in a pinch?  Chocolate sauce is my favorite because I usually have the ingredients on hand!  Here are my two SIMPLE recipes for making chocolate sauce: one requires unsweetened baking chocolate and the other uses semi-sweet chocolate chips.  Both take no time at all to make, and when served warm, you may be surprised how guests will want to pour it over everything and anything edible… both recipes are THAT yummy!

1st Recipe: Makes 1 cup of Chocolate Sauce

• 8 little squares of Baker’s unsweetened baking chocolate-  (NOTE: Baker’s changed the size of the baking squares. Now, 4 little squares equals one of the previous big squares!) 

• 6 tablespoons of cream - (Heavy, light, or half and half: use whatever cream you have. I do prefer to use heavy whipping cream when I have it!)

• ½ cup of sugar  - (If possible, try to get  “superfine sugar.” I always have a box of it in my pantry, but regular granulated sugar works too)

• 2 tablespoons of salted butter, not sweet

• 1 teaspoon of Grand Marnier liquor, or vanilla extract (I add more to taste)

•  Pinch of salt

Melt chocolate and cream over low heat, preferably in a double boiler.  

Add sugar and pinch of salt.

Turn off the heat, add the butter and the Grand Marnier, or vanilla extract. 

Stir constantly until the texture is smooth, and serve it warm.  

You can make in advance and reheat in a double boiler or over very low heat to serve it warm. 

2nd Recipe:  Make as much or as little as you want, depending on the ratio below: 

• Chocolate chips, semi sweet

• Cream (heavy, light or half and half. I prefer heavy whipping cream)

• Add a splash of Grand Marnier liquor or vanilla extract, to taste

For every half cup of chocolate chips, stir in half of that amount with cream. 

Create a thick, creamy chocolate sauce by melting the chocolate chips with the cream, and stir constantly in either a double boiler or, in a saucepan over very low heat. (I add a little more cream to make my desired consistency.)

Serve warm.

Mummy’s old double boiler has continued to serve me well for making chocolate sauce.  Her silver gravy bowl and ladle are the perfect size for a dinner party. I either have it passed, or let the guests pass it to one another. A small cream pitcher is perfect for grandchildren to pour! 

The first recipe is a bit more entailed, but both are truly divine!  Let your guests pour it over their ice cream, cake, pie, brownies, and/or fruit… you name it. There is something about pouring chocolate sauce… it elevates any dessert, making it memorable and decadent!  Yum Yummm! 

I created a “taste test” by offering both sauces, ( Recipe #1 and Recipe #2) along with vanilla ice cream, to Charlotte and my husband, Stuart. They voted. Guess which one was their favorite?!

Xx

Holly

Three Entertaining Secrets! Luncheon Part II

Photo Credit: Deb Key 

How delightful it was to tour Fox Hall and peek at my daughter Caroline’s bedroom with such darling guests who appreciate classic design! 

It was a joy to host the second luncheon the very next day for guests whom I had never met and who were arriving from Palm Beach, Virginia, NYC, and beyond! The seven guests were so charming and accomplished. Again, this was an assemblage of new friends, all representing the essence of timeless, tailored, and traditional lovely living.   

Many thank-you notes from the attendees of both 'Secrets to Lovely Living Luncheons' have arrived daily. Their words reflect their kindness and appreciation eloquently. Each handwritten note is a cherished memento for me… truly “keepers!”  Proof that a thank you note, mailed by post, is NOT a lost art!  These guests know the importance of writing a meaningful handwritten note, one the host/hostess will treasure.

Here are a few questions that I have recently received from subscribers and Instagram followers:

Why would you cook anything for an event if you have hired a staff to serve? 

Mummy shared her entertaining advice with me, which she had learned as a hostess with endless experience. My parents had a revolving door of dignitaries and guests. She said, “Making something homemade to serve will be a quiet nod to your guests for your love and respect for them. Guests are gifts you give to yourself, so why not give them a gift of your time by contributing an aspect of the menu offering, even if you have a staff to serve?”  So, I contributed to the luncheon with cheese crispies, heart-shaped butter, pecan pie, and Grand Mariner-enhanced whipped cream. 

Can you share your “secret pecan pie” recipe with all of us?

I adore making pecan pie and believe my “secret recipe” is the best ever!

Can you keep a secret?  Oh, Good!  Here is my secret recipe! I also add the coarsely grated rind of one orange to the mixture.

Pecan pie is yummy all year long, especially before this year ends! 

What little detail will be quietly admired by your guests? 

Pretty, well-pressed, linen cocktail napkins offered to your guests are always appreciated.  They are easy to maintain, and truth be known, you’ll be “going green” versus using paper cocktail napkins.  I just love how they look with an elegant glass in hand! 

Photo credit: Deb Key. 

A darling, English silver “toast caddy” is a precious and clever way to hold cocktail napkins attractively in any room. 

My heartfelt appreciation goes to Deb Key for kindly offering to photograph these two events for me as a gift, gratis! Deb is such an accomplished photographer. While filming my PBS television series, she traveled with me to Highclere Castle (aka Downton Abbey) to photograph behind the scenes. I admire her talent and generous heart and am proud she is a dear friend.
 

Thank you, dear ones; you continue to inspire me. Let me know your thoughts… should I host another luncheon before Thanksgiving?

Xx

Holly

Holly's 7 Secrets for Hosting Guests You Have Never Met!

Little details quietly share your love and joy for your guests. Your inviting atmosphere will make guests feel comfortable… and hopefully, they will want to return!

Recently, I ventured into uncharted territory by inviting dear subscribers, whom I had never met, to two luncheons at Fox Hall. I was truly blessed to meet THE most charming, gracious, and accomplished ladies (and one gentleman) who flew in from over ten states! This poignant experience underscores the timeless essence of gracious living, which is still celebrated by kindred individuals who uplift and support one another in a traditional world. I cherished this experience! Their joy recharged my spirit and inspired me to continue sharing my secrets. 

Here are my 7 Secrets! 

~ How do you set clear expectations for guests you have never met prior to the event?

Before an event, I email guests about the timeline, when to arrive, and where to park. I specify the dress code and inquire about dietary needs. I also briefly outline the event: pink champagne upon arrival, a house tour, a seated luncheon, and a Q&A in the Living Room. Most importantly, I share how excited I am to meet them!

Welcome to Fox Hall! 

~ How does one create a joyful welcome?

Greeting your guests at the door is KEY! Even if you have a server to open the door, be the first to greet your guests enthusiastically! Having readily available drinks in the reception area is essential because you will not need to leave your guests for refreshments from another room. 

Have a few glasses of champagne and wine poured in advance and offer a glass while also mentioning alternative options like pink lemonade, iced tea, and Perrier. I arrange the drinks on a side table for a server (or me) to pour. If mixed drinks are requested, the server or a bartender can prepare them at a bar in another room.  

I serve “one-bite nibbles” on pretty silver or porcelain platters with linen cocktail napkins while guests sip their drinks. Remember, delicately small hors d'oeuvres allow guests to talk easily after taking a bite… again reinforcing the goal of making guests comfortable. 

~ What is the best way to facilitate Introductions?

As each new guest arrives, I make a point to remember their name and introduce them to another new guest before opening the door again. We all know what it is like to be a guest and not know anyone while standing in a house you have never visited. It can be intimidating, especially when you see pods of people already talking together. 

While I’m not keen on name tags, they can help your guests read each other’s names easily. I sometimes include the city or state they are from… a simple way to spark conversation among strangers!

We joyfully clinked our glasses in the hall after I made a toast to my “pink-attired” guests, and then, we posed for a photo to capture our jubilation! 

~ Why “toast to togetherness” straight away at the reception?

Clinking glasses foster a joyful sense of camaraderie! After all guests have arrived and assembled with a drink in hand, I thank them and offer a sincere welcome. To create a deeper connection with new guests, I recommend sharing a little about yourself, the organization you're supporting, or your home—its history or architectural features, so that everyone begins to feel part of the group.

~ How to seat guests that you have never met?

You can seat guests by business, age, affiliation, city or state. However, I usually have everyone choose a piece of paper that indicates one kind of Herend figurine animal before they enter the dining room. Then, they must find their appointed animal, i.e., “pink upright fox” or “blue bunny with one ear up,” to discover where they will sit. However, with several dietary restrictions this time, I chose to seat those guests at one end of the table for ease of the caterer. I decided to seat the guest that came the furthest distance, Corpus Christi, to my right as my guest of honor!   

~ How to engage a “group conversation” at lunch or dinner?

Once everyone is seated at the table, I make a heartfelt toast and commence dining! Allow guests to chat among themselves, but periodically introduce captivating questions to unify the table in conversation. Consider a few topics in advance, remembering that laughter is the best “secret magic potion” for enhancing an inviting atmosphere. 

~ A grateful goodbye! 

Be sure to walk each guest to the door to say goodbye and express your sincere appreciation to them for coming. (Occasionally, my Virginia background slips out: ”Y’all come back!”)

Give your guests a little gift to remember the event. I arranged small vases with roses and pink flowers for each place setting and gave each guest an inscribed book. I was grateful for their visit and wanted to acknowledge their effort.

I  adore all who attended the two  luncheons, truly! it was such a treat to be surrounded by those who live, breathe and embrace a gracious way of life! Let’s all keep “ lovely living” alive- carry on, and don’t let it fade away! 

Xx

Holly

PS Take a peek at my instagram to see more detailed images here. 

Holly's five simple secrets to enhance your house!

My interior design firm, Holly Holden & Company, Ltd. www.hollyholden.com, specializes in classic and traditional design. I believe in designing once… for a lifetime! Who wouldn’t want to hear those words?  Designing with decorative accessories and techniques that stand the test of time and enhance your home with little effort, translates to a good investment for your design dollars. And, you’ll have fun implementing them along the way, too!  
 
Brass Stair Rods:
Something as simple as adding brass stair rods to your carpet runner on a staircase is a timeless decorative detail and a finishing touch on any staircase. Stair rods are appropriate in cottages and castles… and everything in between! You can order the brass with a clear lacquer finish so they do not require polishing. When I filmed my public television series, You Are Cordially Invited, I discussed brass stair rods at Highclere Castle, aka Downton Abbey, because they are featured on the main staircase in the castle.

Here I am standing in front of a Sir Joshua Reynolds painting (c.1785) on the first landing of the grand oak staircase at Highclere Castle, aka Downton Abbey. In my public television series filmed there, I discussed the use of brass stair rods. We can all learn from masterpiece houses.

Picture Lights:
Adding picture lights to your artwork, no matter what the genre of art, adds an inviting glow to your walls, especially in the evening light when you entertain. I prefer a matte brass finish for a classically styled picture light. Picture lights work best on framed artwork that does not have glass covering it. Stuart and I attended a dinner at Buckingham Palace, which was held in the stupendously handsome Picture Gallery. The main light source for the evening was the picture lights atop each painting. (Oh my, what a stellar collection of art!)  The artwork lined the walls salon-style, one on top of another, on the elegant coral damask wall upholstery... a magical and majestic evening!
 
Paint the interior of your fireplace black:
For new bricks inside a fireplace, I specify that they are painted black because I think it is imperative to have the illusion that the fireplace has been used. There is specialized paint for this endeavor. I specify a flat black. Our historic house, Fox Hall c.1803, has seven fireplaces naturally blackened from the 221 years of wood fires burning within them. Many fireplace examples are featured in my book, The Pretty and Proper Living Room. 

The Hunt Room at Fox Hall has wood fires burning quite often during the cold months of New England. Miss Zsa Zsa loves to sit near the warmth in “her” chair!  

Darling Wastebaskets:
A decorative detail often overlooked in ANY room is a darling wastebasket.  My new interior design book, Pearls of Palm Beach, features many adorable wastebaskets in the ‘Darling Details’ section for each of the eight featured private houses.  Lining the bottom of a wastebasket with a paper doily is another little detail in many guest bedrooms in the United States and Europe.  Charming wastebaskets can be rawwwther expensive, but well worth it. 

Repurpose decorative items that you already own:
Shopping in your house for decorative items to repurpose can be such fun! We were hosting a Chinese-themed dinner party, and I discovered a box of unused crystal perfume bottles with cut crystal pagoda stoppers. Mummy had collected them to give as gifts but never did. I decided to use them as soy sauce holders!  

Look closely and you can spy one of the pagoda perfume bottles repurposed for soy sauce at our Chinese themed dinner party. 

Another idea that never ceases to garner a smile is to repurpose a crystal decanter, customarily used for wine or spirits, to pour mouthwash into and display in a bathroom. For the amusement of your houseguests, fill the decanter with a gold-colored mouthwash, such as Listerine, and then place a silver decanter label engraved with either “scotch” or “bourbon” to hang over the decanter neck! 
 
Please inspire a friend to subscribe here and also take a peek at my Instagram, which offers even more interior and entertaining secrets! 
 
Xx 
Holly
 
PS: I cannot wait to share more about the luncheons I hosted this past Friday and Saturday at Fox Hall. The guests came from Texas, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Florida, Massachusetts, Tennessee, Missouri, Georgia, Virginia and Connecticut!   I am in awe of each guest and ever so grateful for their charming company… we had such a splendid time together! More to come.  

Ring-a-ling! Phone faux pas and proper phone etiquette!

Have you had the experience of calling someone and they answer with a rather curt, “What's up?” greeting?

I recently did and it inspired me to write about answering the phone properly. Whether a mobile phone or landline, what happened to the common courtesy of answering a phone properly?

No matter how bad your day is, the “What’s up?” terse greeting is quite “off-putting” to the person who is calling.  I assume that this unfriendly greeting is meant to insinuate that one is too busy to talk at the moment, or not in a good place emotionally (if you know what I mean!).  Either way, it is synonymous with rude behavior. 

An alternative greeting? A simple, “Hello, so and so… may I call you back? It’s not a good time for me to talk right now.” Or, “I wish I could talk, but can’t right now.” Both are thoughtful ways to relay to the caller it is not a good time, but that you appreciate their call to you. 

What about when someone hangs up on you before you were finished with your call?

When you’re ready to end a call, be sure to say, “Goodbye!” Often, people are too busy and just hang up without these closing words.  They “assume” the conversation is over… but the other person may have something else to say. Give them the courtesy of saying goodbye, before abruptly hanging up.  

Have you ever called a household and a young child picks up the phone and proceeds to yell into your ear as they call their parents name into the phone?

Children are not born with good manners and polite responses. They are taught these courtesies! My dear friend, Nancy Wall’s two little girls answered the home phone politely, with a “hello” and “one moment please,” as they went to get their parents. And, if the caller inquired how they were, they always responded with a “Fine, thank you! How are you?” Did this polite behavior just “happen?”  No, she taught them, reaffirming that graciousness starts at home. 

Let’s remind ourselves, and our children, about the simple gestures of telephone genteelness… ring, ring!

Xx

Holly

PS Please take a peek here at the exquisite jewelry pieces that Elizabeth Gage presents on her website link here! I hope you will inspire a friend to subscribe HERE🌸

Secret "Mirror Magic!"

Creative and decorative ideas for mirrors!

Double the delight and visual pleasure with a mirrored wall!  In my book, Pearls of Palm Beach, the Irish House chapter features this stunning, regally designed front hall.  The mirrored wall heightens the experience for guests to admire the elegant painting of The State Ballroom, Dublin Castle, c. 1845 by F. J. Davis.  It serves as a stellar introduction and sets the scene for one of the largest privately-owned collections of Irish Art. 

Mirrors can bring the outside in and can add sparkle to any space, especially when the mirror reflects candlelight and chandelier light. I was inspired to share a few design ideas with you on how mirrors can be used to enhance your interiors. 

A thoughtful subscriber from North Carolina shared how her guests love seeing the reflection of the crystal chandelier lights, along with the candlelight on the table, in her mirrored Dining Room ceiling.

The Palm Beach mirrored ceiling amplifies the beauty of the rich cerulean-blue hallway, adding to its sophistication and intrigue and is featured in my book. 

Small spaces can grow exponentially with the addition of a mirrored wall.  Because Fox Hall was built in 1803, bathrooms did not exist, so a small area of the Master Bedroom was portioned off to create a bathroom.  When we renovated, I had the “sink vanity wall” mirrored floor to ceiling.  Even though it appears that we have “two loos,” due to the reflection, it does indeed make a marvelous difference visually and enhances the diminutive space.  

Every time I visit Paris, I am enchanted by how artwork is often hung on top of a mirror.  This technique gives depth to both the art and the mirror.  Consider hanging a piece of art on top of your mirror, or over a mirrored wall.

The divine L’Espadon dining room at the Ritz Paris Hotel features these three grand mirrored areas, each with artwork hung over the mirrored wall. The artwork appears to be floating in a window. 

Another idea is to hang a decorative mirror atop a mirrored wall, which adds an illusion of depth and interest. 

An antique Venetian mirror is hung on top of the mirrored vanity wall in our bathroom in Palm Beach. 

Install a mirrored backsplash over a built-in bar, behind the shelves, to add additional sparkle to your crystal glasses. 

Consider applying a trellis-work design over a mirrored wall as we did in our dining room in Petite Fox, Palm Beach.

Instead of using glass panes on a door, consider “mirrored panes.”  This gives a magical and glamorous aesthetic.  I did this for my wardrobe closet doors in the dressing room at Fox Hall. I adore it!

One of the salons at the Ritz Hotel in Paris features mirrored doors.  

A mirrored wall can also serve as a wardrobe mirror to admire and adjust one’s attire.  

Here's looking at you, dear ones! 

Xx

Holly 

PS Please take a peek at the exquisite jewelry pieces that Elizabeth Gage presents on he website link here! I hope you will inspire a friend to subscribe HERE🌸

Marvelous Coconut Macaroon Cookies!

My “Coconut Macaroon Cookies” are Stuart’s favorite.  (And, mine too because they are so simple to make!) 

If you are ever in a pinch to make some quick and easy, but insanely yummy cookies, I have the recipe for you- my coconut macaroons! 

I imagine you have all the ingredients already on hand, especially if you keep a package of sweetened “Baker’s” coconut in your freezer.  I  use coconut for several recipes, so I always have a bag or two available!

The recipe is on the back of the Baker’s coconut package, BUT I do a few things differently, making them even more divine. My secret? I use self-rising flour, add more almond extract, and whip the egg whites until they are very frothy

Heat the oven to 325 degrees.

You will need:

• 1 14 oz bag of sweetened coconut (Baker’s if possible)

• ⅔ cup sugar

• 6 tablespoons flour (I use self-rising, but regular will work too)

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon almond extract (or a touch more!)

• 4 egg whites (beaten to a froth, but not stiff)

Mix the coconut, sugar, flour, and salt in a large bowl. Beat the egg whites to a froth and add them to the dry coconut mixture. Add the almond extract. Mix and let sit for 3-4 minutes so the coconut absorbs the moisture.

Drop a teaspoon or large tablespoon of the mixture (depending on the size of cookie you want to make) onto a baking sheet sprayed with Pam. Keep the mounds loose, not a tight ball! They will not spread, so you can place them an inch apart. How you drop them will make them irregular in size and shape, making them look lovingly homemade. This is key! 

Pop into the middle of the oven for 20-30 minutes, depending on the size of the mounds.  Watch to see when the edges are brown, and then remove them.  

These cookies will give your house the most divine aroma as they bake! 

Depending on the size of the mounds you create, you may get approximately 20-30 cookies! Cover them with plastic wrap once they are cooled to keep them moist… if they last that long! 

Xx

Holly

PS I am so honored that my "Private Luncheon" at Fox Hall on September 20 filled so quickly, so I am hosting another one the next day on September 21. The last few spots are open. I hope you can attend! Please email whitney@hollyholden.com if you are interested in attending on September 21 and she will provide all the details!