Summer House Guests!

Spot on, right?! This artwork, “Departure of a Weekend Guest,” is by the UK’s foremost  British cartoonist, Annie Tempest. 

Summertime is the perfect time to invite houseguests to stay with you!  A dear friend asked me a few questions about having houseguests for the 4th of July, 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 plan clearly specifies what you and your spouse agree upon beforeyou invite your guests.  

It is always so awkward, but how do I tell my guests when to leave?

When you invite your guests, it is considerate to share an appointed time for arrival and departure, so they will know what to expect. Obviously, this is stated diplomatically! When inviting houseguests to stay in a country house in England, it is politely assumed the weekend is over after lunch on the final day, unless the hosts specify differently. 

How shall I go about suggesting this? 

"If convenient, please arrive around noon on Saturday to join us for lunch on the patio.  We hope you can stay until around 2 pm on Sunday, until after we have lunch at the Yacht Club?” If you are uncomfortable suggesting a time for them to depart, remember that clarity makes it easier for all parties to know what to expect. Do not assume your guests will know. You can always expound: “We need to begin packing ourselves Sunday afternoon.” Or, “We have a commitment later on Sunday; I hope you don’t mind."

A few days in advance of their arrival, offer some suggestions of what activities are available to do and then ask them what they would like to do, and be flexible! They may have had an exhausting week of work and just want to sit by the pool. Rule of thumb: don’t overschedule! Guests like having the opportunity to sleep late, take a nap, shop, or go exploring on their own (and do not want to feel guilty for asking).

Once you and your guests agree on the plans, they will know what to expect and what clothes to pack. For example: where dinner will be held (coat & tie?), if they will be playing croquet, golf, or tennis, or simply spending the afternoon at the pool.

Point out goodies for them to have: cookies, candies, fruit, and drinks. Sometimes it is nice to ask if they would prefer breakfast on their own. If they say they are early risers, then suggest gathering together sometime before noon. (This gives you both free time!) Show them where the coffee/tea is and how the coffee maker works.

Show them where beach towels are, the key to the door if you lock it, the wifi code, and even how to work the tricky shower “on-off switch!” 

What if guests offer to bring something? 

If they ask, let them! I think it lets them feel as if they are contributing. Then, suggest something that would indeed be helpful.  Nibbles for cocktail hour, a fruit salad for breakfast, or a birthday cake, and they can choose. Or, they can offer something else to bring. 

What if the guest offers to help?

This depends on you as the hosts. But, if you are a guest, and there is not any staff to help serve, offer to do something: make a great Cosmopolitan, serve the nibbles at cocktail hour, offer to set or clear the table, make the coffee, or pour the wine.

Another clever cartoon by  Annie Tempest!  Note the little pillow on the pink chair: “Short visits make a long friendship!”

GUEST No-No’s:

Do not ask to bring a pet, a surprise guest, or a child unless the host knows in advance and approves. And, if you break something, let the host know. Try to replace it or find something similar and have it sent that week to the host.  

Want to be invited back? Remember to send a handwritten thank you note  (NOT an email) within 48 hours of leaving your host’s house. Better yet, bring your notecard with you, write it before you leave, and place it in your guestroom or some place obvious for the hosts to discover. One and done!

I have two previous letters with even more thoughtful details for your houseguests!

A Well-Appointed Guest Bathroom, The Essential List!
What Additional Niceties Should You Consider For Your House Guests?
 

Guests are gifts you give yourself, albeit houseguests are a “labor of love” gift! 

An addendum Q&A about last week's topic, "How to wear a pretty pin," is located after my fabulous sponsors!

Happy Summer!

Xx 
Holly

PS Take a peek at my splendid sponsors! I hope you’ll inspire just ONE friend to subscribe today, and please help me spread the word about my “Equestrian Collection” porcelain.

How to wear a pretty pin!

One day when I was heading out to meet a very important client in NYC, I came downstairs, twirled in front of my son, Stuart (then 18) and said, “So, how do I look?” I remember I had a pink silk suit on. He smiled and said, “Fine, but you’re missing something.” I glanced down and didn’t see anything missing. “What am I missing?” I inquired.  He nonchalantly responded, looking down as he was typing his homework, “A pin… you’re not dressed unless you have a pin on.”

What? I couldn’t believe my ears! He noticed that I wore pins? I mean he was a sport-o, the captain of his lacrosse team at Suffield Academy, and the last thing I ever would have guessed was that he was aware of this detail. Out of the mouth of babes, go figure!

Yes, I have been wearing pins since I received my first “big girl pin” from my generous in-laws for Christmas at the age of 25. It was a gold fox with a diamond on his paw… and he still hops onto my outfits. 

As a child, I always admired Mummy’s pins and my grandmother’s too. So, when I first put my fox pin on, like Cinderella's glass slipper, the pin slipped onto my dress and just felt right! That was the beginning of my penchant for pretty pins. 

Is there a protocol to wearing a pin? Traditionally, they are worn over one’s heart, on your LEFT side. Not too low, not too high. 

HRH Queen Elizabeth, II, wore a stunning array of pins. Look at some past photos to see how and where she placed them. And, a younger, international audience continues to wear pins as well. Pins are stylish… and not just for old ladies! 

Wearing pins as an attractive accessory, which has been done for centuries, subtly relays a “little insight” about you.  From horses, foxes, pink enamel flowers, bows, and bees, my pins are an extension of my interests and passions. 

Pins can add an amusing aspect to an outfit. Placing a bee pin to adorn the top of your shoulder, or a bow pin on a sash at the back of your dress is a clever way to wear a pin. Also, a pin can be a charming accessory on a hat. (Remember ladies, to adorn your hat on the right side!)

The term brooch and pin are one in the same. I hope to inspire you to take out a pin you haven’t worn in a long while and place it on your dress, a jacket lapel, or a party coat. Then, as my son noted, you won’t be “missing something!”

Xx 

Holly

PS Take a peek at my splendid sponsors! I hope you’ll inspire just ONE friend to subscribe today, and please help me spread the word about my “Equestrian Collection” porcelain. 

Amusing place card seating!

An impromptu luncheon for my “Forever Farmington Friends!” Can you spy any porcelain animals?

Giving considerable thought to your guests' seating arrangements for a dinner party can enhance their overall experience, and yours, especially when you place guests together that hit it off. Nothing like great combinations and jolly conversations! 

But, when seating a group that is not the typical “boy/girl” dinner party, or your close friends whom you know would like to sit together, or you are confronted with either a group of guests you don’t know well, or a group of just ladies, or just gentlemen, the art of diplomatic “seating” can be a bit of a challenge. 

Everyone wants to be to the right of the host or hostess as the guest of honor, right? And, it is doubtful that anyone really wants to be seated in the middle/center of a long table… which some view as purgatory! 

So, how do you seat everyone, and still make them feel equal in their “seating pecking order?”

Remember playing musical chairs? My amusing technique vaguely reminds me of that! Here is my secret method:

Prior to my guests arriving, I place one Herend animal on the table in front of everyone’s place, where a place card would normally be situated. Mind you, each animal is different! (I purposely place a fox at the guest of honor's place.)

Then, I write on a small piece of paper what each animal is, i.e., elephant on a ball, goose with a golden egg, bunny with an itch, etc. I then fold the little papers in half and place them in a small silver basket. (Note: I do not write one for the guest of honor.)

How cute are these origami swans? My granddaughter, Miss Charlotte, helped me set the table the night before the luncheon and made these swans (instead of my folded piece of pink paper) so I could write the name of each animal inside the swan! 

After my guests arrive, I take my guest of honor aside, privately, and ask them to kindly take the seat to my right, and that their “animal” is the fox… when offered to choose an origami swan, not to take one. They will understand why later. 

Just before lunch/dinner is served, I walk up to my guests who are enjoying libations in either the living room or front hall and ask each one to take a piece of pink paper (or swan!)  from the little silver basket and read it. This will reveal their “seating assignment animal.” I tell them, “You will now have to hunt to find your appointed animal on the table!"

Just before lunch is served, I offered the origami swans (which will indicate where each lady will be seated) in a little silver basket, to each guest.

This clever technique creates a jovial atmosphere upon entering the dining room as everyone is scouting for their animal! This technique works like a charm because THEY chose their own seat at the table… a diplomatic win-win! 

Grandmillennial tip:

If you don’t have Herend animals, you can use whatever you wish to designate the placement for seating. From different varieties of flower blossoms, various books, a collection of snuff bottles, and unique shells… get creative because the list is endless!

An adorable friend I have simply places her Beatrix Potter porcelain figurines around the table and asks everyone to figure out which one each guest thinks represents themselves. What a hoot it is to witness the negotiations amongst the guests: “‘I’m the little mouse with the broom.” “Oh no, you’re the sly fox!” “I have cute blue shoes on, so I must be the mouse in the shoe!” Such a clever way to commence a dinner party.

Xx 

Holly

PS Take a peek at my splendid sponsors! I hope you’ll inspire just ONE friend to subscribe today, and please help me spread the word about my “Equestrian Collection” porcelain. 

The “Hello Holly” addendum is after my sponsor list!

Holly's "Angel Cheese Crisps!"

My “Angel Crisps” are easy to make and so yummy that even my little blue mouse hops on the platter to be near these lacy cheese nibbles!

Impromptu parties?  That is my signature! 

Pulling a party together at a moment's notice came from years of experience.  My husband has a reputation for being the “host with the most,” especially with his business clients and colleagues in his industry. When customers were in town, he would often call from his office and ask if he could extend an invitation to his guests to come to our house for a drink before they went out to dinner. It was always good for business, so I learned early on to say, “YES, of course!”

With three little ones at home, I did not always have the luxury of going out to buy something pre-made or get ingredients.  I learned a repertoire of quick and easy hors d’oeuvres. 

Here, I want to share one of my easiest recipes! It requires only two ingredients. I can almost guarantee you’ll have both ingredients, so you’ll be ready to make these little, light-as-air “Angel Crisps,” instantaneously! 

Bear with me… I invented this recipe on the spot, so you may want to experiment and adjust your own version. Make a small batch before you have guests!  

2 Ingredients: Cheese and flour!  

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Line your baking sheet with either parchment paper or use a silicone mat. 

NOTE: If you do not have either, the cheese will be almost impossible to remove from the pan, so, don’t make them!

Grate your cheese. I use medium to large grating holes. 

You may use almost any cheese: parmesan, pepper jack, cheddar, gruyere, etc. The harder the cheese, the crispier it will be. 

NOTE:  A soft cheese like feta, American, or brie will NOT work. 

Cheese:

Grate as much cheese as you think you’ll need.  

Angel Crisps for six guests:

I used 1 ½ Cups of grated pepper jack cheese (loosely grated into a measuring cup). This made about 16 or more wafers. 

Flour: 

I used about ½ teaspoon or a scant teaspoon of flour.  You can experiment to find out what works best for you.  (I once experimented with Bisquick, and now use it instead of flour.)

Put the grated cheese in a bowl and sprinkle the flour over the cheese and stir together.  This will lightly cover the cheese with the flour.  

Optional:

You can stir in whatever spices or herbs you wish, or just leave it as is. Some options I have used: red pepper flakes, rosemary, paprika, and black pepper.

Place teaspoonfuls of the above cheese/flour (herb) mixture onto the parchment paper/silicone mat.  The cheese/flour mixture will be loose, coming together when baked.  Smaller mounds are better. Leave space between your cheese mounds on the pan because they spread out once baked. 

Bake at 350 for about 10-15 minutes. Cooking time depends on the size of the cheese mounds. Watch them like a hawk because you want them lightly browned, not burned!

Once baked to perfection, use a spatula and lift them up and place them onto a paper towel to absorb the additional grease from the cheese.  Once cooled, place on a pretty platter and serve! 

NOTE: Cover them tightly with saran wrap until your guests arrive.  They are better crispy, so heat them back up in an oven, if need be. These can be kept in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for a few weeks.

Ultimately, the  “Angel Crisps” should be a little holy…oops, I mean “holey,” so they look like lace! Bet you can’t have just one. 

I contemplate compiling a book with my effortless hors d’oeuvre recipes. Tell me, would that be of interest to you?!

Xx,

Holly 

PS Know someone with horses, a ranch, or just loves anything polo, racing or showing? Please share my “Equestrian Collection” porcelain with them!

Amusing place card seating!

An impromptu luncheon for my “Forever Farmington Friends!” Can you spy any porcelain animals?

Giving considerable thought to your guests' seating arrangements for a dinner party can enhance their overall experience, and yours, especially when you place guests together that hit it off. Nothing like great combinations and jolly conversations! 

But, when seating a group that is not the typical “boy/girl” dinner party, or your close friends whom you know would like to sit together, or you are confronted with either a group of guests you don’t know well, or a group of just ladies, or just gentlemen, the art of diplomatic “seating” can be a bit of a challenge. 

Everyone wants to be to the right of the host or hostess as the guest of honor, right? And, it is doubtful that anyone really wants to be seated in the middle/center of a long table… which some view as purgatory! 

So, how do you seat everyone, and still make them feel equal in their “seating pecking order?”

Remember playing musical chairs? My amusing technique vaguely reminds me of that! Here is my secret method:

Prior to my guests arriving, I place one Herend animal on the table in front of everyone’s place, where a place card would normally be situated. Mind you, each animal is different! (I purposely place a fox at the guest of honor's place.)

Then, I write on a small piece of paper what each animal is, i.e., elephant on a ball, goose with a golden egg, bunny with an itch, etc. I then fold the little papers in half and place them in a small silver basket. (Note: I do not write one for the guest of honor.)

How cute are these origami swans? My granddaughter, Miss Charlotte, helped me set the table the night before the luncheon and made these swans (instead of my folded piece of pink paper) so I could write the name of each animal inside the swan! 

After my guests arrive, I take my guest of honor aside, privately, and ask them to kindly take the seat to my right, and that their “animal” is the fox… when offered to choose an origami swan, not to take one. They will understand why later. 

Just before lunch/dinner is served, I walk up to my guests who are enjoying libations in either the living room or front hall and ask each one to take a piece of pink paper (or swan!)  from the little silver basket and read it. This will reveal their “seating assignment animal.” I tell them, “You will now have to hunt to find your appointed animal on the table!"

Just before lunch is served, I offered the origami swans (which will indicate where each lady will be seated) in a little silver basket, to each guest.

This clever technique creates a jovial atmosphere upon entering the dining room as everyone is scouting for their animal! This technique works like a charm because THEY chose their own seat at the table… a diplomatic win-win! 

Grandmillennial tip:

If you don’t have Herend animals, you can use whatever you wish to designate the placement for seating. From different varieties of flower blossoms, various books, a collection of snuff bottles, and unique shells… get creative because the list is endless!

An adorable friend I have simply places her Beatrix Potter porcelain figurines around the table and asks everyone to figure out which one each guest thinks represents themselves. What a hoot it is to witness the negotiations amongst the guests: “‘I’m the little mouse with the broom.” “Oh no, you’re the sly fox!” “I have cute blue shoes on, so I must be the mouse in the shoe!” Such a clever way to commence a dinner party.

Memorial Day: Fly Your American Flag

It is truly an honor to fly our American flag, which hangs over the front door at Fox Hall most of the year, weather permitting.

Memorial Day: Fly Your American Flag

It is truly an honor to fly our American flag, which hangs over the front door at Fox Hall most of the year, weather permitting.

Memorial Day in America is a day we pay homage to our fallen comrades. Freedom is not free. Unlike Veterans Day, which is a celebration, Memorial Day is a day of thoughtful reflection over those who didn’t come home; the solemn cost of freedom.  

My father served in the U.S. Army.  He taught me how to respect our flag. Memorial Day is a day to honor and show respect to our men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Flying our flag honors our great country and those who have served to protect it.

Flag etiquette when a flag is being hoisted up the flagpole:

~If a gentleman is wearing a hat, the hat is removed, held in his hand, over his heart.

~For spectators not in military uniform, face the flag, and place a hand over the heart.

~For military spectators in uniform, render the military salute. 

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

Flag presentation protocol:

~When the flag is hung vertically on a wall, window, or door, the Union (blue section) should be to the observer's left.

~When a flag is projecting out from a building on a pole, the Union (blue section), should be at the top of the pole.

It is appropriate to fly the flag at half-staff on Memorial Day, but only until noon:

This procedure is to show respect for the ultimate sacrifice our servicemen and women have made for our country, the land of the free. 

Why until noon? This custom dates back to approximately 1906 when an Army regulations book indicated the instructions for this tradition. Lowering it in the morning is meant to honor the dead, and then raising it to full staff at noon is to honor the living.

How to properly fly a flag at half-staff?

A flag should be hoisted to the top of the mast first, for a moment, and then lowered to half-staff.  Then, at night, when a half-staff flag is being retired, it is first hoisted back up to the top again, for a moment in its honor, and then lowered for the day.

The meaning of the colors on the American flag:

~Red: valor and bravery                                                                                           
~White: purity and innocence                                                                                     
~Blue: vigilance, perseverance, and justice

The flag’s 13 alternating red and white stripes represent the 13 original colonies. Its 50 white stars on a blue field represent the 50 states.

It is a patriotic sight to see American flags flying on poles along historic Main Street, Farmington.  Also referred to as “Charmington,” the village was founded in 1645. Main Street has been deemed a “scenic mile” by the State of CT and is a slice of our beloved “Americana” to behold.

Gathering family and friends together this weekend is a luxury we appreciate even more after Covid days. Enjoy every happy moment together! Attend a local parade. Observe all the flags around you. And, keep this in your heart: We live in freedom thanks to those who serve, and those who have died for our country with courage and integrity. 

To learn more about our American Flag, look here. 

With my humble and patriotic appreciation, thank you.

Xx,

Holly 

PS Know someone with horses, a ranch, or just loves anything polo, racing or showing? Please share my “Equestrian Collection” porcelain with them!

PSS The  “Hello Holly” addendum, in reference to the topic of Ultrasuede, is located below my wonderful sponsors! 

The ultimate upholstery fabric!

A sofa in our Palm Beach apartment, Petite Fox, is upholstered with a pastel peach colored fabric on the front side and a soft white colored fabric on the backside. When you enter the apartment, you just see the white backside, so that your eyes go immediately to the lovely view of the ocean, and not to the sofa! Can you guess what the fabric is?

Friends and clients frequently ask me: What is a durable, yet soft and pretty, upholstery fabric, that can withstand children, dogs, and food stains, yet will assuredly relay an elegant, timeless aesthetic?

Easy answer! Without a doubt, it’s Ultrasuede. It was first invented in 1970 as a synthetic ultra-microfiber, and now, some consider it passé. I think it is anything but… it is fabulous! I have specified it for a breakfast room banquet, club chairs in a library, living room chairs on yachts, an English Chesterfield sofa in a well-used telly room, and even for curtain panels for a living room in Bermuda.

I had our antique George III sofa reupholstered in two colors of Ultrasuede for our Palm Beach apartment. It’s divinely soft and allows a serious piece of “brown furniture” to have a whimsical and refreshed appearance. I don’t have to worry about grandchildren sitting on it with damp bathing suits or our Jack Russell hopping up on it with dirty paws; I can easily clean it off with a damp sponge and just a touch of laundry detergent. It is high-performance (400,000 double rubs!) and excellent for humid climates. 

Recently, we checked into Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Oxfordshire, in the Cotswolds countryside, just an hour outside of London, and dined that evening at their Michelin 2-Star restaurant. When seated, I immediately admired the handsome dining room chairs covered in camel-colored Ultrasuede. Every detailed element at the magnificent hotel is sheer perfection… affirming my theory that Ultrasuede continues to be a classic choice!

GrandMillennial Tips: Ultrasuede Upholstery Ideas

For piping, use a contrasting yet complementary color to the overall upholstery color.

Note the white piping on the backside, yet the front side I have white piping to contrast with the peachy-pink. The top photo shows the contrast piping on the throw pillows. 

If there are decorative throw pillows for a sofa or chair, use a medley of colors for the pillows to enhance the overall color used on the piece, as well as the colors in the room.  Ultrasuede offers sumptuous choices of colors, from pastels to jewel tones. 

Think about designing a sofa or chair with full-width, horizontal stripes or vertical stripes, alternating two colors for the stripes. I did this for curtain panels, alternating pink and green, and it was darling! 

Using Ultrasuede in a light color, even white, to upholster a piece that will be well-used, is not so scary because it cleans up so easily. Additional cleaning tips can be found on the internet. Vacuuming and sweeping the Ultrasuede with an occasional soft brush will keep it looking happily inviting!

Xx,

Holly 

PS Please meet my splendid sponsors below and share my newsletter with others! 

Upholster the back side of your chairs differently!

The classically designed Dorchester Hotel in London has recently been renovated in 2023. The “Promenade Room” features my most favorite color palette- it’s a medley of heavenly pastels. Look at how the floral fabric on the back side of the chairs complements the carpet and overall color theme of the room, and the front neutral color complements the floral design featured on the back of the chair. 

Upholstered seating has been around for centuries, thank goodness! Sitting on a hard wooden chair for a length of time (my old school days!) is not quite as inviting as a soft, plump, down-filled cushioned chair or sofa! 

Upholstered pieces most often feature only one fabric. Yet, traditionally, French and English chairs quite often are upholstered in two different, but complementary, fabrics: one pattern on the backside, and a different one on the front. 

We were invited to Waddesdon Manor, a magnificent country house, built in 1874 by Baron de Rothschild and used as a “weekend residence.” While visiting there this week for a meeting, I took this photo of a tapestry upholstered chair- note the backside, as an example of two upholstery fabrics. 

A must-visit English country house: Waddesdon Mano

The next time you are tempted to have a piece of seating upholstered, I hope to inspire you to consider using two complementary fabrics. Of course, the choice of piping, gimp and trims, along with decorative pillows, will also add to the bespoke appeal of the piece. 

A pair of period French chairs in our Palm Beach home, “Petite Fox'' living room, have a backside which offers just a hint of whimsy!

For our George III sofa, I had the backside done up in white, while the front side and seat cushion was in pinky-peach. I’ll write about the “ultimate child proof” fabric I used for this piece in another SLL!

Xx,

Holly 

PS Please meet my splendid sponsors below and share my newsletter with others! 

Mother's Day Gifts

 Mother’s Day, for me, is a day to celebrate MY children because I am most fortunate to have them in my life!

I never had a clue about what Mummy did for me until I had my own children, and then I asked myself, “Gosh, how did she do it all?”  

I am so blessed to have had such an inspirational mother. The older I am, the more I admire her love and accomplishments. I adore my mother-in-law too! She has been a role model and the ultimate cheerleader for my husband and me. I hope to emulate both Mums for my children, and their children too.

Some consider Mother’s Day to be a trite “Hallmark card” day. Not me! I believe that this is a day to celebrate just being alive, because without your mother, you would not even be here, right? 

If you are in a quandary about what to give your Mum, remember that the most meaningful present is a homemade card or gift. Outside of that, here is a list of a few alternative gifts to purchase. And ladies, if your mother is not living, or if you do not have children, give yourself a “Me-Me gift”’  (what my Mummy called a gift from “me to me”) and celebrate the love that YOU give to others!

The perfect purse… fit for a Queen! The renowned Launer handbag was carried by Queen Elizabeth II for decades. While she preferred the larger size (Traviata) with a longer, bespoke handle, I adore the smaller Judith version. Stuart surprised me with a bubblegum pink one and it continues to be my go-to for Palm Beach. It is only available here in the USA at Scully & Scully on Park Avenue, NYC. It’s simply a fabulous bag! I adore how discrete it is… either you know what it is, or you don’t. No logos are emblazoned upon it- how refreshing. Learn more about Launer handbags from my previous newsletter here. 

HM The Queen is carrying her traditional choice for a handbag, the Launer Traviata which features a bespoke longer top-handle, which fits comfortably over her arm.

Breakfast in bed? What a dreamy idea! This white breakfast tray is a classic. It’s also perfect for a holiday house. Treat a guest by placing it outside their door with croissants or muffins, a pot of tea, and if in Palm Beach, the Shiny Sheet!

A Herend placecard holder is a precious gift for any occasion. It can be used as a decoration on a serving tray, under the blossoms of an orchid plant, on a sink by the soap, or as intended, as an actual place card holder. 

Pink and Pearl earrings- one and done! These earrings are timeless and without a doubt, elegantly glamorous. Pink isn’t just a color- it’s an attitude. These earrings are perfect any time of day, and quintessentially Palm Beach! 

Elegant gloves are timeless and useful, while adding to a polished look with presence. Founded in 1946,  gloves of uncompromising quality have been created by Cornelia James, By Royal Appointment since 1979, Cornelia James is dedicated to keeping the time-honored skill of glove-making alive. I adore wearing them when it’s chilly,  always while shopping! Cornelia James has offered an exclusive discount, for two weeks, to my subscribers… You and your Mum can wear a pair of gloves that Queen Elizabeth II adored wearing too for decades!  Use code KINGCHARLES for 10% off for the next two weeks. 

Cheers to all of you loving mothers.  You make the world go round! I’m especially proud of my darling Alexandra, Caroline and Karen…you’re exceptional mothers to my precious grandchildren! 

Xx

Holly 

PS Oh, here is one more gift idea! The Equestrian Collection 5- piece porcelain set will show your Mum unbridled love!  Please meet my splendid sponsors below and share my newsletter with others! 

Kentucky Derby Hats

This magnificent creation, in magenta pink, is a  fine-straw disc with hand-made silk roses and spotty veil.  It was designed by the extraordinary London milliner, Rachel Trevor- Morgan, and it’s going to be worn by a very lucky lady at this year’s Kentucky Derby! 

The Kentucky Derby is fast approaching. Let's discuss fabulous hats! While not mandatory at Churchill Downs, they continue to be a tradition there, as well as at celebratory parties around the country! Even gentlemen tend to wear either lightweight straw bowlers or fedoras to this fashionable equestrian event.  

My dear friend in London, Rachel Trevor-Morgan, whom I admire immensely, is a renowned British milliner… and creates fabulous hats indeed!   She has held a Royal Warrant since 2014.  Her Majesty the Queen wore her stunning creations on many high-profile occasions.  It was a thrill to interview Rachel. I thought you, too, may wish to know a few noteworthy hat/fascinator facts for the Kentucky Derby, Royal Ascot, or for that matter, any hat-wearing occasion:

~How do you decide what side of a lady's face a hat should be tilted?

“Traditionally, hats always tilt the same way. The brim of a hat always dips over the wearer's right eye and lifts over the left. This is how we always make them. A smaller pillbox hat is worn over the wearer’s right eye. (Occasionally, we make them the other way at the client’s request.)”

~Which side of a hat is trimmed (decorated) for a woman and for a man?  

“Traditionally, a lady’s hat is most often trimmed on the wearer’s right, and a gentleman’s hat is trimmed on the wearer’s left.”

~Do you ever repurpose a hat?

“For another event? Yes, absolutely! I can think of nothing sadder than a beautiful hat that is designed for a special event being put away and never worn again. Here in the UK, there are events where hats are required and in certain circumstances, certain size hats are required. I am, of course, talking about the Royal Enclosure at Royal Ascot, where the dimension of a hat must be no less than 10cm (almost 4 inches).  Hats are also required for Royal Garden parties.”

What an honor to receive the gift of a pink, bespoke fascinator from Rachel Trevor-Morgan.  She is known for her delicate flower creations, and without exception, these are exquisite. I have worn this on two occasions and simply adore it! 

With the upcoming Coronation of King Charles III, which will be held on the same day as the 149th Kentucky Derby, I can only imagine how busy Rachel Trevor-Morgan has been creating bespoke hats! When I asked about the dress code for the Coronation for guests, they understand it to be formal dress and hats suitable for a church service or wedding, but that is not a direct quote from the Palace.  Rachel is delightfully informative about the protocol of wearing hats and more, which you can read in my two previous newsletters, Part I and Part II. 

So ladies, tilt your glamorous hats and fascinators to your right… and off to the races you will go in grand style!  

Xx 

Holly

P.S.  Please be a dear and forward this to a friend who enjoys wearing hats too!  

AND… I  would like to extend a personal invitation to the first person to purchase 12 place settings of the Equestrian Collection 5-piece porcelain before May 6th, with this exclusive “Derby link,”  to a private luncheon which I will host for them in either Palm Beach or Farmington, CT.  Unbridled fun! 

Derby Days!

There’s nothing like tradition… and the celebration of a true “Southern tradition” is especially lauded at the Kentucky Derby, the oldest running sporting event in America since 1875!  On the first Saturday in May, from Churchill Downs to celebrations nationwide, the “Run for the Roses,” a two-minute horse race, continues to be a bold reason to jubilate with friends anywhere in the world. Mint juleps, red roses, pretty hats, and magnificent horses… civility meets revelry on a grand level! 

When an invitation was extended to Stuart and me to attend the Kentucky Derby, it was a dream come true. I was jumping for joy! We boarded the plane, with a hat box in hand, and landed in Louisville, where the green grass along the runway was completely lined with private jets from all over the world.  Red roses, the official flower since 1904, and palpable excitement greeted us everywhere. We were spoiled royally, on every level, as guests of our darling Louisville friends, Ed and Carolyn Lewis, who generously gave us this lifetime experience! 

Photo credit: @KentuckyDerby

Attending the Royal Oaks Race (the day before the Derby) and then the Kentucky Derby, inspired me to create my Equestrian Collection of porcelain. From the snaffle bits (inspired by my horse, Tootsie Roll) to the red tassel design (inspired by the bed of red roses placed on the winning racehorse), I think the five-piece set creates a joyful table… a winning way to celebrate (with bourbon or no bourbon!) all year long.  

On May 6th, the “greatest 2-minutes in sports” will take place for the 149th running.  The 1 ¼ mile Kentucky Derby race record was set by Secretariat at 1:59.40 minutes at the 99th running. Who do you think will win this year, and how do you celebrate?  

For many years, we celebrated at Tom and Margah Lips' “Derby Party” in historic Glastonbury, Connecticut, by sipping mint juleps, admiring their springtime gardens, and singing “My Old Kentucky Home” prior to the start of the race. I wish I could have brought my cheese crispies on one of my new pretty Equestrian plates for their parties back then! 

Please forgive me for being rawwwther self-serving and promoting my own porcelain, but it is the racing season with Royal Ascot, the Gold Cup, the Preakness, Belmont, and in just 12 days,  the infamous Derby! As a lovely hostess gift, or to use at your own Derby party and for everyday celebrations, please take a peek at my exclusive offer here. 

Oh, I have enjoyed seeing the photographs you have sent me of how and where you use the Equestrian Collection, along with a few from your horsey friends too. Keep the pictures coming. Thank you!  

Giddy-up! 

Xx

Holly

PS. Please be a dear and inspire one friend to subscribe. My “Hello Holly” section is after my lovely sponsor

A Wallpaper Trick!

Such fun looking at the blue ceiling with Her Grace, The Duchess of Rutland, in our Chinoiserie-inspired Palm Beach dining room. Note the pretty peach blossoms on the wall mural! 

Such fun looking at the blue ceiling with Her Grace, The Duchess of Rutland, in our Chinoiserie-inspired Palm Beach dining room. Note the pretty peach blossoms on the wall mural! 

Oh, I adore wallpaper and especially elegant murals!  Do you as well? Handpainted murals can be traced back to the 14th century in China, where they were painted on rice paper.  As a designer, I am especially keen on specifying murals by renowned companies: de Gournay, Gracie, and Zuber. They are sumptuously divine in quality of design and historical references.  They can be, and rightfully so due to the quality of production, rather expensive… which probably serves to reinforce their panache!  An elegantly designed mural is rich with depth (versus paint) and will enhance an interior wall or an entire room. 

Would you like to know my little wallpaper trick? It is so easy to do and can be very effective for various applications.  After the wallpaper has been installed, take the leftover wallpaper and see if there is any part of the design that can be cut out and reused somewhere else.  Whether it is pasted on top of wallpaper that you just installed or applied on top of another wall, you will then create your own bespoke design!

 A clever installation of wallpaper in this room with the flowers climbing onto the ceiling.  Photo Credit: @themichaelmundy for @elledecor

I used my wallpaper trick when we first purchased “Petite Fox,” our pied-a-terre in Palm Beach, which was a plain white, bland modern space. (But what it lacked in character and warmth was made up for by the simply spectacular view of the ocean!)  I could not wait to design this blank canvas.

A “before” picture of Petite Fox. Here, our Chinoiserie-inspired chandelier was just installed, and a few pieces of the crown moulding had been delivered

For the dining room, I designed a bespoke wooden pagoda, in a peach color. The white Chinese Chippendale fretwork was created to be placed on top of mirrors to embellish the dining room walls.  I purposely left a portion of the wall blank to feature the mural of a Chinese-inspired tree. I had a tight time frame for the mural to be installed, and a pair of mural panels by F. Schumacher, “Madame de Pompadour,” in aqua, were readily available: one and done!  The peach-colored blossoms on the tree complimented my pagoda perfectly! But, once installed, I realized that the peach blossoms were located near the bottom of the tree and not really visible.  So, my trusty wallpaper trick came in handy once again. 

After the wallpaper was installed, I took the scraps of the leftover mural paper and carefully cut out a few additional peach flowers. I told my installer where to paste them on the branches of the tree on top of the mural wallpaper so they would be clearly visible. The additional peach blossoms served to enhance the color of the pagoda. Voila, I now had a bespoke wallpaper!  

GrandMillennial Tips:

~When cutting out detailed aspects from wallpaper, try using petite manicure scissors.  They can easily be maneuvered around the delicate edges of the design. 

The pair of bows gracing the top of these precious pony watercolor paintings from London, in the kitchen at Fox Hall, are the cut-out leftover pieces from another wallpaper. Now, I hope you, too, will be inspired to look at your wallpaper leftovers with a creative eye!   

~The wallpaper details you cut out can also be used on the ceiling, in a bookcase, or around a blase mirror frame… endless places!

~Consider painting the ceiling in a color featured within the wallpaper.  I had the aqua background in the mural painted on our ceiling, and it served to enhance the tonality of the ocean view in the distance.

On another note, the racing season is upon us!  The Kentucky Derby is on May 6th, so I am offering an exclusive discount for my Equestrian Collection 5-piece porcelain collection ONLY until May 1st.  You can now properly dress your table for a Triple Crown and an Ascot party!  The “secret price” is at www.shophollyholden.com. Thank you for sharing this offer with your “horsey friends” too. 

Xx

Holly

PS Take a peek at “Hello Holly,” located after my darling Sponsors. You can read several charming remarks in response to the SLL newsletter, “Two Thoughtful Gestures.” 

Two Thoughtful Gestures: Eye Contact and a Smile!

Going through a receiving line at a gala for The Versailles Foundation, Inc., eye contact and a smile are a must! 

One lesson that is so important to impart on your children and grandchildren is eye contact when speaking and listening to someone, and especially when expressing gratitude, shaking hands, and giving a toast.  Eye contact, from one person to another, shows interest, respect, as well as genuine appreciation. 

Do let me know if you have suggestions on how to instill “good eye contact” with children. My four grandchildren in Germany practice looking each other in the eye almost every night at dinner when they say “cheers” to one another. Their parents remind them to look each person in the eye as they clink their glass of milk with each sibling.  This charming exercise is amusing for the children and serves to reinforce a valuable social lesson at a young age. Good eye contact is also expected when they shake hands when meeting adults. Teaching these noteworthy gestures to children are gifts that will benefit them for life. Do you agree?

And, smiling is another thoughtful gesture to encourage. The simple act of smiling releases endorphins for both the smile-er and the smile-ee. A smile draws others to you and puts people at ease, as it communicates warmth and love. The gift of a smile doesn’t cost anything yet it is invaluable in the positive effects it can create for yourself… and for others. 

Recently, I was walking past a store employee who was pushing a large cart of empty boxes to the recycle area. I noticed his head was down as he was going through his humdrum daily routine. People walked by him with no notice. I happened to catch his eye… and smiled.  He immediately smiled back. Even his eyes smiled! Giving a smile to someone who doesn’t expect it is a silent gift which gives joy to others so easily.

At the Salvation Army of Palm Beach County’s fundraising event, the “British Beatles Bash,” the  guests wore festive 60’s attire, from go-go boots to bell bottoms! When fun neon glasses were passed out, we realized it was a bit of a challenge to have eye contact with one another… so we had this photo taken instead! 

I want to genuinely thank you for inspiring others to subscribe to my newsletter. I am always delighted to receive your kind and insightful comments and questions in reference to my SLL topics each week. I thought you may enjoy reading a few too, so I have added a new section, “HELLO HOLLY,” which is located underneath my darling sponsors. Take a peek.

Let’s keep gentility alive!

Xx 

Holly

P.S. Please be a dear and forward this on to a friend. Perhaps, they will be inspired to subscribe!

Diamond Jewelry Etiquette

How delightful it was to learn about the simply sumptuous collection of elegant jewelry pieces at Scully & Scully, Park Avenue, with Vicky Shade.

Someone in the press once stated, in reference to our charming historic village of Farmington, CT, “The most bling you’ll find in Farmington is a string of pearls!” 

Pearls are appropriate to wear at ANY time of day!  But for diamonds, here is a jewelry etiquette rule you may not be aware of:  diamonds are not worn during the daytime.  Diamond jewelry such as necklaces, earrings, watches, bracelets, and tiaras, are worn only after dusk, or after six in the evening. (Diamond rings are exempt!)  Even the Royal protocol in England dictates this rule.  Diamonds are considered too “flashy” for the daytime, but in the evening, they add sparkle, especially at cocktail receptions and formal events. 

To wear or not to wear diamonds before six? We can all agree that times are now more relaxed. Mummy used to say, “It’s just not done, darling.”  While hats should not be worn indoors after six in the evening, the opposite is true for diamonds, and especially a tiara, which should not be worn before six in the evening at a formal event.  

So, what do you think? Do you ignore OR respect this traditional “diamonds in the evening” rule?

Here is my contemporary interpretation:

A display of diamond jewelry in the daytime must be discreet; diamonds are faintly noticeable.  A pin, or a pearl earring that has one diamond as an embellishment, similar to the late Queen Elizabeth’s traditional pearl stud/diamond earrings, is appropriate.  

A photograph of Michael Scully and me while filming inside Scully & Scully on Park Avenue in New York City, standing near the magnificent jewelry section. I was truly honored that Michael wrote the Foreword to my first book, The Pretty and Proper Living Room. The store sells both of my books, which are inscribed.  Michael is the President of Scully & Scully. His parents established the store in 1934, and it is now the oldest store on Park Avenue, which continues to attract the most prestigious clientele worldwide.

I was recently a guest  at a stunning ladies' luncheon hosted by Tamara Comolli (fabulous German jewelry company!). I asked the guests around me what they thought about wearing diamonds during the day. One said, “If I owned a tiara, I would wear it to breakfast- start the day with sparkle!” Now, you have to smile at this amusing idea, right?!  While diamonds are considered a girl’s best friend,  your genuine laughter and joy always add the most genuine sparkle wherever you go!

Holly

P.S. Please be a dear and forward this on to a friend. Perhaps, they will be inspired to subscribe!

Wine spills and other accidents... stay calm!

Yes, indeed, accidents happen during parties, and occasionally, just before a party too! In the front hall at Fox Hall, my favorite butter-yellow damask-covered chair, pictured here, was accidentally covered in hot green wax. So, now what?

Have you ever attended a lively party filled with laughter and happiness, and then a guest accidentally spills a glass of red wine, and the party comes to an abrupt halt due to an outwardly distraught hostess? At this point, guests just want to skedaddle… the party is over!

Red wine eventually finds itself somewhere other than in the wine glass… either on the carpet, the tablecloth, or some piece of upholstery. A guest will naturally be mortified to have spilled wine. Nothing ruins a party faster than a hostess who is uptight and stressed about an accident happening at her party. So, prepare in advance for mishaps. I permanently keep a bottle of seltzer water, a towel, and an everyday white napkin ready to use if need be. 

Stay calm, and carry on by keeping the panic off your face. Smile and pour some seltzer water over the stain, cover it with the spare white napkin, and leave it alone… this is key! My advice is to wait until your guests depart before you attempt to clean anything up. I say something like:  "The magic fairy comes in the morning, don't worry!"  The less you do to clean any mess up, the more your guests will feel comfortable and continue to have a merry time.

And, if you discover a white ring on your wood furniture the next day, due to the condensation from a glass, Mummy shared a secret recipe of mayonnaise and cigarette ashes to remove the ring, which is mentioned in my book, The Pretty and Proper Living Room.  

While entertaining at Fox Hall, I have experienced a myriad of mishaps. From the water pipe breaking over the butler's pantry, causing the ceiling to collapse two days before Lady Carnarvon arrived for a luncheon, to a full glass of port spilling across the dining room tablecloth onto a guest, several wine glasses breaking, and hot wax from an evergreen-scented candle being accidentally knocked over onto an antique chair the day before a Christmas party, I have had my share of mishaps to deal with.  How about you?

My darling daughter, Caroline, shared how to rectify this "wax" calamity.  I placed the chair out in the winter cold for a few hours, which allowed the wax to harden. Then, with a butter knife, I scraped the wax off. The slight remaining residue was then removed by Stanley Steemer. Voila, like new…  just in time for the guests to arrive for the party!

I hope you enjoy your guests, and forget about the accidental messes at your parties. There is always tomorrow to clean it up! 

Xx 

Holly

P.S. Please be a dear and forward this on to a friend. Perhaps, they will be inspired to subscribe!

Sunglass Etiquette!

Who is this lady?  Gosh, between the large hat and the sunglasses, she remains a mystery!

Sunglasses add a charming sense of glamour, while also protecting one’s eyes from the sun.  I have noticed the time-honored tradition of removing sunglasses whilst being introduced to someone is often neglected!  Whether indoors or outdoors, it is thoughtful to remove your sunglasses when being introduced to or greeting someone. 

Removing your sunglasses while greeting someone is a simple sign of respect for another person. Having eye contact is a courtesy and a form of communication when meeting or greeting people; they read not only your eyes but also your facial expressions. 

While attending a luncheon fundraiser, I was seated next to a lovely and accomplished lady I had never met before. I felt privileged to be introduced to her.  She had tinted silver, mirrored-like sunglasses on the entire time.  I must admit, I may not ever recognize her again because I never saw her face.  Besides that, it was rather distracting to look at myself in the reflection of her mirrored glasses as we spoke to one another! On another occasion, I was introduced to someone wearing a stunning hat and sunglasses.  She looked fabulous, but to this day, I have no idea what she looks like and would be embarrassed not to recognize her, should she know and acknowledge me.  

So, long story short: remove your sunglasses when meeting someone, just as you would remove your right-hand glove to shake hands!  And then, after an introduction or greeting, it is perfectly fine to put them back on.  Of course, if you have eye issues or cataracts, keep your sunglasses on, but acknowledge why you are not taking them off while being introduced.

My sunglasses were on while dining outside at Le Bilboquet, Palm Beach, with Miss Zsa Zsa, avec her orange ball.

Grandmillennial Tips:

At an outdoor sports event, or playing tennis or golf?  Take off your sunglasses when meeting others, then put them back on.  

Taking a “selfie” with someone?  Remember to remove your sunglasses if the other person does not have them on.

When being pulled over by a policeman (yikes!), not only is it a sign of respect to have your hands on the steering wheel at the 10 and 2 positions, but it is also thoughtful to remove your sunglasses as a courtesy. 

Forbidden Faux Pas:

No-no: To wear sunglasses inside at a social gathering. (An exception is if you have a reason to wear them. My sunglasses are prescription, so occasionally, I will not have another pair with me and will need to put them on to read the menu.) 

No-no: To wear sunglasses or reflective glasses when on a Zoom call or at a business meeting.  It may appear that you are trying to hide something, like a poker player.

No-no:  To wear sunglasses to a wedding ceremony or a funeral (unless you have a reason to do so).  Even if a wedding takes place outside and the sun is out, it is thoughtful to remove them so that the photographs of the event will show who the guests are… and not the “want-to-be-movie stars” in sunglasses!

So, when in doubt, err on the side of courtesy and remove your sunglasses when greeting anyone, even just for a moment… it will always leave a lovely impression!

Xx Holly

P.S. Please be a dear and forward this on to a friend. Perhaps, they will be inspired to subscribe!

"Naples Tables," a splendid event!

How fabulous it was to participate in The League Club’s “Naples Tables” this year!  Celebrating their fourth year, what a successful charity event it has become. 

Today is our daughter Caroline’s birthday! I remember on her third birthday, she wanted an “Angelina Ballerina” party… how adorable it was to see a sea of pink tights and tutus twirling about as her friends entered the pink-themed dining room.  Part of the delight was setting the table with Caroline beforehand.  We collected pink adornments from around the house to create a magical birthday luncheon for a dozen darling “little ladies” to pirouette and celebrate. 

Setting a “unique and memorable” table to reflect a celebratory moment is something I cherish doing.  I learned by osmosis from my mother, and she from her mother, and on down the line.  So, when my long-time Connecticut friends, Nancy Zwiener, and Penny Marziali, in Port Royal, Naples, invited me to participate in a “Naples Tables” event at the Ritz Hotel, hosted by a noteworthy charity, The League Club in Naples, it did not take toooo much arm-twisting to accept! 

On Saturday afternoon, I picked up the pretty, poppy-adorned floral arrangement for my table, which I created with the florist at HIVE in W. Palm Beach. I then transported them to Naples, from Palm Beach, with my car air-conditioning set so low (to preserve the flowers until the Tuesday opening night of “Naples Tables”) that I became an ice cube upon arrival. Oh, the things we do for charity! 

The League Club is open to women who have been, or still are, members of The Junior League.  I was a member of The Junior League of Hartford and know firsthand how stellar it is for raising monies to benefit the community.  “Naples Tables” is superbly organized and raises oodles of dollars.  I was honored to participate alongside 60 other designers from around the country. There were over 1400 attendees; Charlotte Moss, a fellow Richmonder, was the guest speaker.

Originally, I thought I would design a horsey-themed table for my new porcelain line, The Equestrian Collection.  In my mind, I would use my Jules Mene bronze horse sculpture as the centerpiece, with a miniature blanket of petite tea roses around his neck.  “Run for the Roses,” I thought… until the world-class designer Wilfredo Emanuel requested to create a table with my porcelain (he carries it in his posh Naples store, N Color).  What an honor; a resounding “yes,” I said!  With over 4000 red roses in a 14’ x 14’ space to a video projecting running horses as the backdrop, Wilfredo created a brilliant vision for all to see.  He is known for the most stunning exhibits, and indeed, it was an exceptional showcase for my porcelain!

So now, what will I use for my 72” round table design?  Good thing… I was able to debut my newest porcelain design, the Grand Jubilee  (for orders, please contact natalie@hollyholden.com), which features a whimsical and colorful confetti aesthetic- Yippee!  It was perfect for creating a “picnic under the lemon trees” theme because I wanted to relay a joyful celebration of life with precious girlfriends.  Several commented that the Jubilee design would also be superb to start the day on a breakfast table, and also on a yacht because it exudes a table filled with joy and happiness.

An old-school wicker picnic basket (filled with two plates, linen napkins, wine glasses, a cutting board, and flatware) was placed on every other chair to enhance the “picnic” theme.

It was glorious to be greeted by so many charming Naples ladies who subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on Instagram… I adore you all!  Thank you, “Naples Tables,” for including me.  If any of you are able to secure tickets next year, grab them the day they are for sale, or they will be gone!  Visually, you will be inspired by a stupendous sea of table-setting ideas and beautiful flowers, which are enhanced by the gracious and very clever Naples ladies participating and attending.  So, so much fun!

Grandmillennial Tips:

When setting the table, consider taking one of your children or a grandchild with you as you walk around the house to discover items to decorate the table.  This amusing exercise will teach them to look at what they already own and use it in various ways to enhance a festive theme or celebrate a special occasion, as discussed in a past newsletter, “Honoring your Guest of Honor.”

When designing your table, consider ways to complement the colors within your porcelain design. The colorful candies and the candles both reflect colors in the plate design.  I repurposed the coffee mugs as little topiary plants since water and champagne glasses were already placed for each guest at the table. 

Forbidden Faux Pas:

No-no: To have a centerpiece too high so guests cannot see one another across the table. The purpose of dining at a dinner table is to have conversations while seeing the other guests’ eyes.

NOTE: The "Naples Tables" event is an exception to the above no-no.  The centerpieces are purposely created to be dramatically tall and command attention to the table and room! 

Happy Birthday to you, my lambie, Caroline! 

Xx Holly

Butter Makes It Better!

Julia Child famously said, "With enough butter, anything is good!" and I concur! 

For a ladies' luncheon for the Duchess of Rutland,  I placed heart-shaped butter on individual butter plates. (The candles are lit just to add ambiance to the photograph. The tradition in the USA is not to light them before dusk.) 

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 does not allow me to, and a caterer is a must, I still try to make the dessert and one more little detail that graces the table.  Can you guess what it is? A butter mold! 

 I use a butter mold so that each person’s individual butter plate has a uniquely shaped piece of butter on it.  This is so easy to do and can be done in advance and frozen until your party… one and done!

Butter molds have been used since the 18th century and were made of wood and used by dairy farmers.  Their stamped designs indicated their farms and added visual appeal. And today, there are fanciful molds made of silicone!  A multitude of designs can be found in specialty kitchen suppliers online, and customized molds can be ordered on Etsy.  

In our historic Georgian house in Glastonbury, CT, the Brunscwhig & Fils documentary wallpaper in our dining room featured a few butterflies, hence a butterfly mold.  At Fox Hall, the obvious: a fox head! (Which, incidentally, is often mistaken for a cat. Oh well!)

While shopping for Valentine's gifts for grandchildren, I spied a heart-shaped silicone ice cube mold for petite ice cubes, which can ALSO easily be adapted into butter molds. Can you spy the fox head mold next to it!?

I find silicone molds extremely pliable, making them the most manageable vessel to use when removing frozen butter, and they can be placed in the dishwasher too. 

Simply allow the butter to come to room temperature, spread it into the molds, and freeze.  Add saran wrap on top to keep the butter fresh.  Remove from the freezer, bend and snap it out,  and place one or two on everyone’s butter plate before your guests arrive. (Or, have your caterer place them while the dinner is prepared.) Butter thaws rather quickly. 

GrandMillenial Tips:

If you don’t have time to make the butter molds, just slice pieces of butter lengthwise from the stick and cut them in half again; then, you will have a unique rectangle shape versus a mundane square.

Butter is even more appealing when it has a touch of greenery on or next to it.  As long as I have been entertaining, I try to place a little sprig of rosemary, parsley, mint, or even a tiny leaf from a non-poisonous plant (whatever I have on hand!) on or near the butter.  A holly leaf, without the poisonous red berry, works well at Christmas… and has my name on it!

Just a touch of green makes the butter sing!

Perhaps, you have heard of a butter curler? It looks like a metal hook with one side that is serrated. My advice: avoid it! I find it challenging to master this instrument and use my easy-peasy silicone molds instead.

These butterballs were presented to me by the waiter at Renato’s Restaurant off Worth Avenue.  Another option, one that restaurants use for the perfect butter ball: purchase them pre-made online. 

Stuart likes “sweet, unsalted” butter cold, and I prefer “salted” butter, soft at room temperature… guess who wins?!

So, before you entertain, “Keep calm and add butter!”

Xx Holly

The Secret to Choosing a Wall Color!

My daughter, Alexandra, and I spent a lovely morning at the Barberini Museum, in Potsdam, Germany, near Berlin. My second time there… It's a must-visit! Philanthropist Hasso Plattner, the founder of this Impressionist museum, displays his vast and truly stunning array of art. Why were the walls painted gray in this gallery room? I imagine the wall paint color was chosen to complement the cold, snow-scene paintings in the room. The iconic haystack has faint hints of gray too. 

Have you ever been in a quandary about what color to paint the walls for a room in your house? Are you curious about how and where to start the color search? If you do not have a designer to do the job for you, then may I suggest a secret that notable art museums and galleries use brilliantly?  They carefully select a color that is represented in one or more pieces of art in a particular salon/room and paint the walls using that hint of color found within the artwork.  The artwork is subtly enhanced by the chosen “wall backdrop” color, creating a symphony of pleasing visual aesthetics. 

The deep charcoal-navy wall color is a replication of the cathedral tower in this painting.

Tour notable art museums. Discover how the color on the walls complements the art in the room. 

What a delightful experience it is to take my grandchildren into a museum and have them observe the wall color and then ask them to hunt for where the inspiration came from. I enjoy the challenge and search too. From the pink dress on a lady, to a blue shoe, or the gray tonality of snow, you will always find something that is the key to the color chosen for the walls. 

Just a hint of gray, in the far left corner of Monet’s Water Lilies, is a clue as to why the same color was chosen for the walls in this room.

Choose a color for the walls with your artwork in mind. This will meld the art and the room together for a carefully curated aura. Or, select a fabric design or carpet color, or whatever will have a prominent presence in a room. Decide what hint of color you adore within that piece and use it on the walls. I tend to use soft, pastel shades and colors that bring visual happiness to me. 

Paint the walls with a flat finish, which is the traditional finish, and it does not compete with the texture or sheen within the artwork displayed. 

Happy hunting!

Oh, and here’s another secret for you! I have a new online shop- The House of Holly Holden, and it’s LIVE now! Go to  www.ShopHollyHolden.com and take a peek! More curated darling goodies will be coming soon. But for now, you can easily order my Equestrian Collection…giddy-up!

Xx 

Holly 
 P.S. Please be a dear and forward this on to a friend. Perhaps, they will be inspired to subscribe!

A Postscript from the “Bread and Butter” newsletter, which I thought you too may enjoy reading: 

Dear Holly,

I had such a giggle reading your missive on “bread and butter” notes. As a Southern daughter, I was raised by my dear Momma,  a true belle, to believe that thank-you notes must be written as quickly as possible or like fish, they would begin to smell. 

I remember starting mine in the plane on the way to my honeymoon.  Momma also felt that a postmark from a foreign location added to the impression that all due diligence had been expended to insure the recipient was thanked in a punctual manner.  The fact that we only went as far as Florida was irrelevant.

Thank you for bringing back a fond memory. My dearest Momma, now ninety, still maintains her selection of proper note papers for all occasions in her writing desk. It makes me happy that you are passing on this knowledge to young girls who may not have been blessed as I was with a Southern belle to guide them.

Sincerely,

Nikki

Bread & Butter Note

My writing paper is always ready for a “bread and butter” note!

Have you ever heard the old-school term “bread and butter” note and wondered what it is? 

It is an old-school term for a thank-you note, which is dutifully sent to thank a host/hostess for their hospitality!

The gracious gesture of sending a “bread and butter” thank-you note is an appreciated gift to your host.  It expresses, in writing, how much you appreciate someone's hospitality. 

Speaking of thank-you notes, a handwritten note is more important than ever these days, especially with the present-day trend to send off a quick thank-you via email.  A handwritten acknowledgment for someone’s hospitality, gift, or act of kindness is the pinnacle of graciousness, a quiet beacon of polish, and a proper nod to good manners. 

Interestingly enough, in my lifetime, I have noticed that the people who take the time to write a note tend to be some of the most remarkable, busiest people I have ever met. From respected leaders to grand-dames, volunteers to philanthropists, and even grandchildren, thank-you notes are instinctually always cherished by the recipients. They understand how important it is to recognize someone else’s effort on their behalf.  

A thank-you note takes time and thought, as well as writing paper, a stamp, and a postbox… unlike a quickly composed email that is sent off with just a click and, after reading, disappears.  This simple, little personal gesture is like gold, trust me!

GrandMillenial Tips:

In Europe, thank-you notes are written with a fountain pen in blue or black ink.  So, think of investing in one. I too adore fountain pens; they add a charming aspect to any correspondence. Or, instead of a ballpoint pen, use a rolling ball pen which is somewhat similar to a fountain pen. An informal thank-you note, these days, may also be written with an amusing ink color…like pink! 

 Peek under the envelope flap of elegant writing paper, and you may discover the name of the stationery company!

If the recipient lives close enough, hand deliver the note. On the front, bottom left corner of the envelope, you may write the words: By hand.  

A thank-you note should ideally be written and mailed within 48 hours of receiving a gift, attending a celebration, or being a houseguest. (Brides supposedly have a year to write a thank-you note, but the unwritten protocol is to write the note within three months of receiving a wedding gift.)

Forbidden Faux Pas

No-no: To think that an “email thank-you” is a sufficient expression for staying at someone’s home or being a guest at a dinner party. The amount of time and effort a hostess puts into a party for your pleasure should inspire you to take a few moments to acknowledge their efforts by writing a note.

No-no: To buy writing paper or a card that has "thank you" already printed on it.  When you write a note to say thank you, there is no need to have this printed for you by the stationery company!

No-no: To start any correspondence with the word "I." This gives the impression that you are more important than the person you are writing to.

No-no: To start a thank-you note with the words, “Thank you!”

What is done: Explain what you are appreciative of, and then express your thanks. The more specific your note is, expressing details about the event or gift and why you are so appreciative, the better!

I have kept many notes over the years because they not only hold memories, they are a meaningful reminder of the family member, friend, or colleague that sent them. Let’s keep this tradition alive and well. Do you agree?

Xx

Holly

 P.S. Please be a dear and forward this on to a friend. Perhaps, they will be inspired to subscribe!