A Timeless Secret: How to Enhance Pearls with a Pin!
Pearls are “The Queen of Gems” in my opinion! Ever since my darling daddy returned from a business trip to Japan and gifted me my first string of graduated Mikimoto pearls at age twelve, they have been my signature piece of jewelry. I simply cannot leave home without them! Pearls are timeless, elegant, and surprisingly […]
The Art of Being a Gracious Houseguest
After years of hosting at Fox Hall, and Animal Haus in Vermont, my husband and I have been fortunate to have some truly delightful houseguests. Their impeccable manners have touched my heart and serve as brilliant examples of how a guest can contribute and be “easy keepers”… the kind of guests you want to have […]
Bread & Butter Note
Happy New Year! 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 […]
Petite Adornments: A Charming Secret to Decorate Your Service Tray!
Christmas is almost here! I invite you to look at your silver chest with fresh eyes. Beyond their traditional role, a silver napkin ring (or any kind of decorative napkin ring) can be reimagined as an exquisite “petite adornment” that adds a sense of beauty and whimsy to your serving trays. This is applicable for any occasion […]
Hostess Gifts: Unique and Thoughtful!
With the holidays approaching, “party time” is in the air! It is important to show your appreciation to your host or hostess, especially knowing the effort put forth for the party you are attending. Your joyful self, along with complementary verbal sentiments, will be music to the ears of the hostess. Bringing a hostess gift […]
Mummy’s Secret Christmas Caviar Ball!
Do you agree that inherited family recipes are “as good as gold?” Not just because they’re tried and true, but because they immediately bring back happy memories! Our ultimate Christmas Eve tradition at Fox Hall is Mummy’s Caviar Ball, served every year during cocktail hour and also, at my holiday parties. It’s the easiest, most […]
Easy Appetizer: Simple Pinwheel Proscuitto Roll-Ups
Want an easy “make-ahead hors d’oeuvre?” I have been making these for years and keep a roll or two frozen so if I host an impromptu guest or have a party, I can take them out, slightly thaw, slice and bake…Everyone loves them! I slice them rather thinly, so I can make even more from […]
Must You Sing for Your Supper? Oh, Yes, Indeed!
We have all heard that phrase, and when you are a dinner guest, it rings absolutely true! With Thanksgiving upon us, here are a few considerations for a “proper dinner guest.” As a guest, you are being treated to dinner. Your host is going out of their way to lavish you with their gracious hospitality, […]
Holly’s “Angel Cheese Crisps!”
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 […]
Destination Funeral Etiquette: Why Confirming Your Attendance is the Kindest Gesture
Attending a funeral that requires travel, a destination funeral, is difficult enough. But for the bereaved family, it’s exponentially more challenging. Not only are they grieving, but they are also simultaneously managing travel logistics, food, and accommodations for dozens of guests who have traveled far to attend. Stuart and I planned to attend a service […]
A Gracious Secret: Where Should Ladies Place Their Handbags at Your Party?
The true secret to seamless, elegant entertaining is anticipating your guests needs… before they have to ask you! Make your guests feel cared for the moment they cross the threshold into your home. A dear subscriber inquired: “When guests come for dinner, should I direct ladies to a place where they may place their handbags?” […]
The Timeless Appeal of Carrara Marble Countertops
Our cooktop is a standalone cabinet, which enabled me to add two custom columns on either side, which serve to enhance the bespoke design of the marble. There are design choices that feel trendy, and then there are those that are timeless. As a designer, when I’m asked about my favorite countertop surface for […]