Spring Dinner Party

Greetings my lovely readers! My apologies for the radio silence and thank you for your nice notes. No, I have not been on vacation, just slammed with my day job and not able to devote as much time and creative energy to the blog.

Last week I hosted a small fete for some of my favorite friends I wanted to share a few of the details with you. The flowers are roses, lilies, hydrangeas and snap dragons. One tip for you: I use the florist at Whole Foods and they do a beautiful job for 1/2 the cost of a high-end florist. I asked for a fresh and modern centerpiece to match my custom tablecloth from DWELL. 

The place cards are from ALEXA PULIZTER  Fun, right?

For the main course I dusted off an old classic - Chicken Marbella from the Silver Palate. RECIPE

Photos: Kate Todd, Susabelle Boutique, Simply Recipes



My New Favorite Blog

I know...we all have way too many blogs bookmarked on our computers and who really needs to add to the reading list?! Check out Valerie's BLOG and I think you will find it worth it! I discovered her blog while flipping through the latest issue of House Beautiful and I am obsessed with her style, her recipes, her photography, etc.

Valerie finds joy in a simple formula: eat, drink, garden—and have fun while you’re at it. A California native, Valerie is on a perpetual quest for the best in West Coast living.  On her blog she shares her best tips, recipes and recommendations gathered from her own table, which is often surrounded with laughing, well-fed guests.

A few recipes I am definitely going to try

FALL FRUIT AND PROSCIUTTO SALAD

OVEN FRIED POTATO CHIPS

SLOW ROASTED SALMON

How to Arrange Your Own Blooms and Set a Stylish Table

 This woman knows how to entertain with flawless style!

Winter Sledding Party

Here in New England it has been quite chilly. After months of mild weather, temps in the 20s are a bit of a shock! The upside? Skiing, snow shoeing and sledding. I LOVED the Sledding Party in the current issue of COUNTRY LIVING created by event planner KATE MARTIN.

The invites - adorable!

 Beverages for the kids - hot chocolate RECIPE

Or add a dash of rum or vodka for the adults. Note the hand stenciled table cloth with snowflakes!

Of course the dogs are invited too

A sweets table

And roasting marshmallows

Gathering around the bonfire at the end of the night - so fun!

Photos: John Dolan and Country Living

Holiday Entertaining Tips

The party is at THE BUZZ today where I am delighted to be doing a guest post on holiday entertaining. Please do visit one of my favorite blogs and leave a comment.

Photo: Carolyn Roehm

Style Maven: Carolyne Roehm

One of my favorite designers is Carolyne Roehm. I love her eye and her ability to create beautiful homes, gardens and stunning parties. Be sure to check out her new WEBSITE.

Photos: Carolyne Roehm, New York Social Diary, Habitually Chic and Relaxed Elegance

My Favorite Blog

A few weeks ago I discovered the incredibly stylish blog of JENNY HOBICK. And I am obsessed! It has quickly become one of my Top 5 daily reads. Luh-ve!

Jenny is a fellow Bostonian who lives in Concord which is the only suburb I would consider if I had to leave the city and is home to some of my close friends. 

Her blog has the best ideas for entertaining (with beautiful photography and recipes).

Entertaining ideas

 Stylish homemade hostess gifts and so much more...