Put a Wreath On It

Even though it feels more like spring in Boston (with temps in the mid 60s), than the holidays I am embracing the spirit. My wreath is up, my tree on the deck is lit and I will be decking the halls next weekend. How about you? 

Photos: Tiny White Daisies and Martha Stewart

Gift Guide: For The Hostess

Every hostess will enjoy a delicious candle for their home over the holidays like these from MATOUK.

Or one of my holiday favorites - Thymes FIR candle

Since everyone has an iPad or a Kindle, how about a chic cover? Find one HERE

Give something other than wine like a bottle of truffle oil - a decadent splurge that any hostess will enjoy. Buy some HERE

Or a bottle of MOLTON BROWN hand wash in Thai Vert

Make a container of BOOZY OLIVES and you can find the stylish containers HERE. 

Friends of ours always send a box of homemade cheese straws and they are to.die.for! Bake up a batch, package them in a nice tin and what a perfect gift - they go so well with cocktails! RECIPE

Put together a small basket with FIG JAM, delicious CRACKERS and CHEDDAR CHEESE. 

Monogrammed cocktail NAPKINS that look like linen, but are actually paper. 

A set of chic NAPKIN RINGS from Sue's store at the Zhush will add holiday pop to any table top.  

Paperwhites are a holiday classic. This adorable KIT includes everything you need. 

And if you want to put something under the tree for the host (not just the hostess), a needlepoint FLASK

Cheers to the holiday season!

Top Image: Better Homes and Gardens

Holiday Outdoor Decor

With the turkey (and the leftovers) eaten, it is time to decorate for Christmas. I love this time of year and these great simple ideas for holiday outdoor decor from Better Homes and Gardens. Find the details HERE

Game on Santa!

Our Holiday Table

Before we turn to all things Christmas, I wanted to share one image of the stunning table my Mum (Dixie) created for our Thanksgiving.

The pumpkin place cards I made following a similar look from Martha and spray painted the pumpkins gold and tied a card to each one with narrow ribbon. The silver candelabra are antiques passed down through our family mixed with amber glass votives. Antique ruby port glasses were mixed with rental wine glasses. The centerpiece was truly "green" with a harvest bounty of fruits, veggies and nuts. The food and the wine were stellar, only upstaged by a great group of family and fabulous friends. Hope you all had a great holiday, too!

Five for Fall - Pretty Pink Tulips

Last in the Five for Fall Series, but certainly not least, is my pal Elizabeth of PRETTY PINK TULIPS. You will love her style and Texas charm - I promise! 

1) Apple anything...baked, cider, crisp or pie. Here's Tyler Florence's RECIPE for The Ultimate Caramel Pie.

2. WOODLAND SPODE Dishes which Elizabeth uses from September through the end of November. The china is perfect for fall dinner parties all the way through Thanksgiving!

3) A chic outfit in layers. Growing up in Texas, Elizabeth never wore scarves and now, she can't imagine an outfit without them..and a fabulous pair of GLOVES! 

4) A fall arrangement with leaves and dahlias.

5) Above all....sitting with a beautiful magazine or book next to the fireplace in the living room.

Photo credits: Tiny White Daisies, Pinterest, Style Me Pretty and As The Coffee Steeps

Happy Thanksgiving

Before I get caught up in the Thanksgiving prep, I wanted to wish you and yours a very Happy Thanksgiving!! Thank you for reading and all of your kind comments through out the year. 

Top Image: Martha Stewart

Decadent Holiday Dessert

I am a huge fan of pecan pie. Luh-ve! I am planning the menu for my annual Christmas dinner party and may try making this chocolate pecan pie for dessert paired with fresh whipped cream and champagne. Adding chocolate can only make things better, right?

RECIPE