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