Grosgrain Ribbon: A Timeless Trim!

A simple and quietly understated 1” wide Grosgrain ribbon embellishes a dust ruffle in Palm Beach. 

What decorative trim is timeless, tailored, and not expensive? Grosgrain ribbon! It can enhance curtains, valances, upholstery, pillows, and dust ruffles. It can also adorn clothes, hair bows, hats, shoes, and ponytails.  Now, that’s a notable roster for a simple ribbon trim, wouldn’t you agree? 

Grosgrain (pronounced GROW-grain) is a versatile ribbon with a distinctive ribbed appearance that runs across it and enhances its durability. Because its textured parallel ridges have a matte finish, Grosgrain is not flashy or shiny and is more durable than satin or silk ribbons. 

Grosgrain, in the 17th century, referred to a black and durable garment fabric. In the 1920s, Grosgrain “ribbon” was introduced, and now, many colors and printed designs are available. Grosgrain ribbon has a “distinguished appearance,” which is why it continues to embellish evening wear, such as the bow on a gentleman’s formal black evening pumps.

Consider applying a 1” to 2” wide Grosgrain ribbon along the leading edge and across the bottom hemline of your curtain panels.  Choose a complementary color to the fabric design or room scheme, or choose a neutral color, like white.   

These curtain pull panels have a 1 ½” white Grosgrain ribbon applied one inch off of the leading edge of both panels.  

I specify a Grosgrain ribbon trim to be sewn about ½” to 1 ½” off the leading edges of a curtain panel. How you place it depends on the fabric's pattern, the room's height, the curtains' width, and the design scheme's formality. Two or more ribbons can be sewn as a trim on curtains, either next to one another in the same color or alternating colors, adding even more interest. Be clever and think outside of the box when designing with Grosgrain ribbon!  

I have used Samuel & Sons' Grosgrain ribbon for years for my clients' projects. Grosgrain ribbon, like the 2” width roll displayed here, can also be easily obtained online. 

I hope you will be inspired to use Grosgrain ribbon as a trim embellishment on your next design project!

Xx

Holly

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My Secret Kitchen Color Scheme!

This little nook adjoining the kitchen at Fox Hall is always filled and overflowing with family during the holidays!  I commissioned the artist to paint our son, Stuart III, with his dog Higgins. I asked the artist to make his sweater a soft blue, knowing it would always work well with our kitchen's blue-and-white color scheme.

What is my “secret” color combination for a charming, timeless, and tailored kitchen?  It’s a “blue-and-white” color scheme!  Why? It is TIMELESS!  This traditional color combination has been around for centuries, so maybe it does not qualify as “my secret,” but more of my “tried and true'' color combination for a kitchen… and other rooms, too, for that matter!

Mummy convinced me to consider a blue-and-white color scheme for my first “big-girl” house, in the kitchen.  This was sage advice for me as a young bride of 21.  She drew from her well-earned experience and encountered several rawwther unique interiors whilst moving our family over 33 times internationally. 

A blue-and-white scheme also works well with yellows, greens, reds, and even pink accents.  Our kitchen in Palm Beach, Fox Worth, has blue foo dogs and dragons as a design on the pink background wallpaper. Do you spy a pink refrigerator?! Couldn’t resist. 

 To me, the blue-and-white theme utilized in kitchens adds an air of contentment and joy, similar to a bright blue sky adorned with enchanting, puffy white clouds… a joyful, welcomed sight! Even the blue-and-white images of kitchens I share on my Instagram garner more views than any other color scheme. 

A blue-and-white kitchen will stand the test of time! 

Photo Credit: Scheffer Interiors via Instagram 

There is a universal appeal and charm of a blue-and-white color palette. It remains an enduring color combination because of its long history and staying power.  It originated on pottery in China in the Tang dynasty 618-906.  In the Yuan dynasty of 1279-1368, the cobalt blue used on pottery and porcelains became even more vibrant.  Blue-and-white porcelains arrived in Europe in the 16th century.  In the 1850s, the British were simply charmed by the appeal of a blue-and-white scheme, which became quite fashionable. (And, of course, it brightened their dark Victorian interiors!)  Impressionist artists such as Auguste Renoir sprinkled blue-and-white porcelains into their works of art.  The universal appeal and charm of blue-and-white in rooms or on porcelains continues. It is a traditional, not trendy, choice.

Please pass this advice along to a young bride, a first-home owner, or someone designing a resort house.  From my experience, it will always serve them well!

Xx

Holly

Why host back-to-back dinner parties?

We recently hosted a joyful Saturday evening dinner party in Palm Beach, bringing together a table of ten CEO.org members for a memorable gathering. We had a ball! View my latest IG reel about our party here! 

Why host back-to-back dinner parties? Sometimes consecutive parties are worthy of your efforts for a few reasons. 

On another evening, we hosted a more intimate dinner for six guests. 

Stuart and I occasionally host two dinners back to back because we either can’t fit two parties into our travel plans, to accommodate the demands of holiday schedules, or to adjust to our guests’ availability. 

While it might initially sound daunting, there are several unique benefits to holding parties in succession, if ever you need to: 

1. The silver is polished

2. The flowers are arranged

3. Your house is tidied up

4. You can cook or cater enough for two nights, so whatever you are serving will all be made in advance

5. The wine is purchased, the bar is stocked

6. You can invite twice as many guests as you can sit at your table

Arranging flowers a few days before any party allows the blossoms to open up and look their best.

 Serving a lobster bisque or crab chowder tends to be a welcomed first course. 

One benefit of two parties in a row is that after the first party, all you need to do is set the table again! And yes, it helps to have a server or staff to clean the glasses, dishes and launder and press the linens, but after the second party, you can then sit back (or collapse!) and celebrate your accomplishment!

Friends are a gift you give yourself. If your situation requires you to host two consecutive parties, it’s not so bad… you’ll double the gift of being with friends!

Xx 

Holly

PS: Please invite a friend to subscribe here! Thank you for your kind and enthusiastic support. It was such a joy to attend the Cancer Alliance Luncheon at the Breakers Hotel last week, where many of you came up to introduce yourselves as subscribers… my sincerest THANK YOU!

Hidden Beauty: Transform space under furniture for timeless elegance!

Ahh, Symmetry! Not only are decorative porcelains presented on this lovely English hall console table, but underneath, the pair of blue vases and a handsome antique Georgian cellarette (wine holder) enhance the entire composition. 

Photo Source: whimsicalhomeandgarden.com via Pinterest

We often overlook the hidden potential lying beneath our furniture! With a touch of creativity, these overlooked areas can be transformed into elegant spaces that enhance the overall aesthetic of any interior.

Learning from ‘the best of the best’ has always inspired me. My television series aimed to show masterpiece and privately owned houses. Their interiors feature time-honored decorative techniques. Touring exceptional houses can enhance your ability to decipher the difference between an innocuous-designed, trendy-trite interior from a timelessly elegant interior that is charming, inviting, and memorable.  

Always strive to buy in pairs for balance and symmetry; this vignette is a prime example!  The pair of Chinese blue and white garden stools underneath the attractive English table can also be utilized for extra seating.  

Photo source: Lusterineterors.blogspot.com.au via Pinterest

Vignette designed by Rosa Bernal

I discerned a clever decorative technique while filming an episode with Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill inside the Private Apartments at Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, England, and it left an indelible impression on me: utilize the unused space under a piece of furniture!  

In Blenheim Palace, at the end of a long hallway on the piano nobile (Italian for “noble floor”), a graceful console table features a collection of blue and white porcelain on top and underneath it. The three blue and white vases gracing the floor, enhance the vignette elegantly. 

This is a prime example of how porcelain can enhance art. The soft blue hues in Consuelo Vanderbilt's dress complement the blue and white porcelain collection, which cannot be seen here due to the cameramen and equipment while we were filming…. a good reason to visit Blenheim Palace to discover more examples like this!

So, look around your house for unused real estate under a table, console, sideboard, or highboy, and be inspired! Here are a few decorative suggestions to consider using:  

~ bust, statue, or sculpture

~ Chinese porcelain footbath

~ cachepot filled with plants or flowers

~ stack of large coffee-table books

~ ottoman or a pair of benches; both can be used for extra seating

~ cellarette (wine holder)

~ collection of vases

~ Chinese garden stools

Just outside our Hunt Room at Fox Hall, a bronze sculpture jumped underneath the antique American card table!  

Grandmillennial Tip:

If you have small children or a rambunctious dog, heavy sculptures, benches, and books work well as decorative elements on the floor instead of porcelain pieces, which can easily be broken! 

Xx

Holly

PS 

Roses are red, 
violets are blue, 
you are the sweetest subscriber,
and, I thank YOU! 
Happy Valentine’s Day!

It is almost Galentine’s and Valentine’s Day- two of our most favorite holidays!💕 We decided to join forces (Holly Holden/ Dress for Cocktails) to give you and your best gal a gift to celebrate!💗 Click here and enter my IG giveaway! 
 

A no-no for gentlemen!

This is a no-no, gentlemen!

Gentlemen, take note! 

I was unaware of the term “HIP” (Hands in Pockets) until William Mikus, a fellow Board member and the former Chair of the Salvation Army of Palm Beach County, introduced me to this concept. We were seated together at the Salvation Army holiday luncheon. The HIP topic sparked interest within our entire table. I invited him to share his thoughts as a guest contributor… so I will pass along his insightful and witty perspective!

The HIP Phenomenon: A Trend Among Men

“Recently, I noticed men walking into private clubs and fine dining restaurants with their hands in their pockets (HIP). At first, I didn’t pay much attention. But soon, I realized this phenomenon was everywhere, much like the “Red Car Theory,” which explains how something seems to appear everywhere, once you start noticing it!

The Many Types of HIP Offenders

There are many types of Hands-In-Pockets offenders. There’s the younger man, often handsome but unsure of himself. Then there are the lazy, slouchy types, the timid, the socially anxious and awkward, and those lacking self-awareness. These men have not been properly coached on how to present themselves.

HIP causes shoulders to sag and heads to droop—a posture that exudes servility, no matter how attractive or intelligent the individual is.

The solution, gentlemen?

Keep your hands visible! (Perhaps, have a tailor sew your pockets shut!) My critique of HIP isn’t arbitrary; it’s rooted in thousands of years of evolutionary behavior. Historically, keeping one’s hands visible and at the ready was essential for self-defense, and perhaps, for protecting a fair maiden from sudden danger. Whether faced with a drunken lout or a wild dog, readiness is paramount.

Now, step into a room with your jacket buttoned (always wear a jacket), shoulders back, and head held high. Pause briefly to scan your surroundings, allowing everyone to admire your commanding and confident presence. Then, walk with the dignity of a leader… think Caesar returning triumphantly from Gaul. Just saying!"

William J. Mikus, Palm Beach- Managing Director of Dakota Wealth Management.  

In conclusion, it is not just about looking good… it is about embodying confidence and self-assurance. Thank you, Bill, for sharing your HIP observation. 

So, gentlemen, hands OUT of your pockets! 

Xx

Holly

PS: Please be a darling and share this with someone you think may benefit from knowing about HIP!

Proper protocol for what to do with your cocktail glass before dinner!

After a champagne celebration at Fox Hall, we adjourned to the dining room, while our guests left their glasses behind in the living room.

A friend’s daughter recently asked me what she should do with her glass after cocktail hour when attending a private dinner party. Here are some tips on the gracious way to handle it.

At a Private Home Dinner Party:

Unless the host specifically invites you to bring your drink to the dinner table, always leave it in the room where the cocktail hour was held. Place your glass on a cocktail napkin on a table or, if there is a butler or wait staff with a tray, either in the room or stationed at the entrance to the dining room, gently place your glass on their tray. 

At a Private Club or Restaurant:

If you're enjoying a cocktail at the bar or in a reception area, a waiter or maitre d’ should offer to escort you to your table and bring your drink to you. Or, if you prefer, you may leave your drink behind. It’s best to follow your host’s lead in this case.

At a Large Reception:

Observe the host and follow their example. Often, there will be a table where you can place your drink as you leave the cocktail reception, or you can place it on a server’s tray. If it’s a business gathering, again, it’s best to take your cues from the host.

Forbidden Faux Pas:

No-no: To ask for a different wine than the one being served at a private dinner party, or anywhere you are a guest. If white wine is being served and you prefer red, simply abstain from drinking the white. If the host notices you’re not drinking and specifically asks if you’d prefer something different, then it’s acceptable to mention your preference.

You are invited to peek at my Instagram video here. Cheers to you for being a gracious guest! 

Xx 

Holly

PS: Please be a dear and invite a friend to subscribe HERE! 

Silver Cloth

“Everything tastes better when served on silver!” That is the advice Mummy gave me as a young bride. I have always had a penchant for entertaining with silver… I imagine my grandmother and parents passed this gene down to me. 

Keeping silver polished? It is a labor of love! It brings to mind the old saying, "Tarnish?! What in tarnation?!“

BUT, I have a secret technique to share with you. It will help to keep the tarnish at bay! I highly recommend purchasing tarnish-preventative flannel cloth by the yard.  It helps to keep tarnish away while storing silver. Buy enough fabric to cover the tops and undersides of your pieces. I tuck my silver serving pieces into the safety of their little non-tarnish beds. I line the inside of a few drawers in the butler’s pantry with enough extra fabric to pull over the top of them and tuck them in! Here is an Amazon LINK. 

Do not be tempted to wash this tarnish-preventative fabric, or you’ll wash away the tarnish-preventing qualities! 

You can also cut pieces big enough to cover pieces you leave out when you travel or are away for extended periods. For example, a candelabra, large tureens, or even a medley of silver picture frames. Buy enough yardage to cut and drape over your pieces. Or buy premade bags.  

Silver pieces can also be wrapped in acid-free tissue paper and placed in a ziploc bag.  Another secret is adding a piece of chalk (like school blackboard chalk!) to the bag. The chalk will help keep the tarnish and humidity down. 

Tarnish-free strips are available online and can be added to flatware and jewelry boxes.  

The Royal Butler, Grant Harrold, and I had an interview together HERE in England. He suggests polishing your silver, tightly wrapping it in plastic wrap, and storing it in a cool place.  As long as it is tightly wrapped, tarnish will not occur, and it will be as bright as the day you wrapped it… easy peasy!  Thank you, Grant! 

Serve something on silver tonight… and see if it doesn’t taste better!  

Xx 

Holly

PS Please be a dear and share these secrets with some friends. Perhaps they will subscribe, too! 

A Coaster Conundrum: When should you use a coaster for a drink?

Coasters come in all shapes, sizes, and designs. When should you offer a coaster to your guests?

A young subscriber asked me, “As a hostess, when do I need to offer a coaster, and when do I not need to?!”

Oh, this is fun because decorative coasters are a popular gift in the world of pretty accessories… but gift shops will probably not like my answer!

Any glass WITH a stem, such as a wine, champagne, or port glass, do NOT need a coaster! 

A glass WITHOUT a stem, such as a highball, beer glass, or a tall ice tea glass, does require a coaster. Why? Cold drinks, especially with ice cubes, can create condensation and drip onto the surface where they are resting, leaving a watermark… especially on wood or leather-topped tables! 

One of the engraved silver coasters I inherited from Mummy continues to be used under the iced stemless glass for drinks in the living room, and for iced water on the dining room table. 

Coasters are thought to protect your table from scratches, yet the base of a stemmed glass will not scratch your table (and it is doubtful that a cocktail glass would either).  So, as a hostess, relax; scratches will not happen from a stemmed glass!

My rule of thumb? A coaster should be offered only to guests with STEMLESS glasses!  

When a cocktail napkin is offered, and you wish to set your drink down, it can be placed under a stemmed glass as a matched set until you pick it up again. (The cocktail napkin would be placed beside the coaster for a stemless glass.) 

Silver wine coasters are a charming way to dress your dining table appropriately to hold a bottle of wine or decanter. The bottom of most wine coasters continue to have a soft felt bottom… in case you wish to “coast” your wine down the table! 

The history of the “coaster” is intriguing! The term “coaster” was coined with reference to ships, referred to as “coasters,” going coast to coast in the 1700s. In well-to-do European houses, a custom started in the mid-1700s when a “coaster” was used to slide or “coast” a bottle of wine or a decanter across the dining room table on a tray (made of silver or wood) to late-night guests to serve themselves libations after the staff had retired for the evening. The tray had a soft fabric applied to the bottom to slide or “coast” across the wood table surface  (without a tablecloth) easily.  

And on a personal note, my heart goes out to all those in LA who have lost their homes in the devastating and catastrophic fires. I’m so terribly sorry and have you in my heartfelt prayers and send my love. 

Xx Holly

PS: My Instagram “coaster” video is HERE.   Please be a dear and inspire a friend to subscribe by forwarding this letter to them. 

The Timeless Charm of Handwritten Thank-You Notes: Gratitude in Words

Bespoke stationery makes for a thoughtful gift, perfect for family, friends, or newlyweds. I take great joy in selecting from my collection of writing paper, which I've accumulated over the years.

With the holidays now behind us, it’s the perfect time to pick up your pen and acknowledge your gratitude to those who thoughtfully gave you a gift. While sending a quick “thank-you email” might seem like the easiest option, consider forgoing the “digital quick fix“ in favor of something much more personal: a handwritten thank-you note! In today’s fast-paced world, this timeless gesture is a rare and thoughtful treasure for the recipient. 

There’s something undeniably special about receiving a handwritten note in your mailbox, surrounded by bills and junk mail, don’t you agree?! It appears like a GIFT!

The effort you put into writing and mailing the note reflects the appreciation you feel for the recipient’s kindness. It is a personal, tangible way of expressing gratitude. I’ve kept and cherish many notes I have received over the years.

Here are some traditional, tried and true guidelines for writing a thank-you note: 

Ink & Writing Instrument:

Ideally, use a fountain pen with blue or black ink. I personally enjoy using pink ink for dear friends. It’s a bit less formal, but still elegant. If you don’t own a fountain pen, a rolling ball pen is a sophisticated alternative to a standard ballpoint.

From fine point to bold, I enjoy choosing from various nibs on my fountain pens for my notes.

Timing:

Aim to write and send your thank-you note within 48 hours of receiving a gift or hospitality. While this 48-hour rule tends to be more lenient nowadays, it’s important to send your note as soon as possible… just make the effort!

Personalization:

A meaningful thank-you note goes beyond just the words “thank you.” Be specific about why you’re grateful. Mention how you plan to use the gift, or explain what made their hospitality so memorable. 

Here are a few old-school references to know:

A “Bread-and-Butter” Note:

A term often used to describe a thank-you note sent after a dinner party or for hospitality. It's a nod to the tradition of being thankful for the simple but important gestures of kindness.

Writing Paper:

In England, stationery, or notepaper, is referred to as writing paper—a charming, old-fashioned British term.

A line through your name:

Drawing a line through your name when a title is indicated (Mr., Mrs., Dr., Countess, etc.) is an old-school nod indicating that you are on more personal and less formal terms with the recipient. 

Forbidden Faux Pas: 

No-no: To buy writing paper or a card with the words "thank you" printed on the front. The message of appreciation should come from you, not the stationery/card company! 

No-no: To write a note with the first sentence starting with the word "I.” This gives the impression that you are more important than the person you are writing to.

No-no: To write your note with "Thank you" as the first two words. Instead, make an effort to share your delight and explain what you are thanking the recipient for, and then express your thanks.

No-no: To think that an email thank-you note is a sufficient expression of gratitude after attending a dinner party. The time and effort a hostess (or host) puts into a party for your pleasure should inspire you to hand write a thank-you note and share your sincere recognition with them. 

No-no: ​To think brides have up to one year to write a thank-you note (according to etiquette books). A thoughtful bride will send a thank-you note within three months of receiving a wedding gift.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

GrandMillennial Tips:

For Young Children:

For little ones who can’t yet write a thank-you note, a creative way to express gratitude is through their artwork. Parents can help by sending a piece of their child’s creation to the recipient. It’s a simple but meaningful gesture that conveys love and appreciation, and it's sure to warm the recipient’s heart! 

A Personal Touch:

If the recipient lives nearby, consider hand-delivering your thank-you note. There's something uniquely endearing about seeing “By hand” written on the corner of an envelope and is such a thoughtful touch!

In 2025, the timeless charm of handwriting thank-you notes may seem old-fashioned. However, in an era of instant communication, a handwritten note stands out as a true gesture of thoughtfulness and appreciation. It is a timeless way to show someone you value them, and it will undoubtedly be treasured far longer than a digital message!

Happy New Year Wishes! 

To my incredibly talented and clever team—Kristen, Sabrena, Jenn, and Whitney—thank you for making the magic happen behind the scenes for my SLL letters and Instagram posts. Your creativity and dedication is pure JOY. I am so grateful for each of you! 

And to you, my dear readers and sponsors, I want you to know just how much I appreciate your continued support. Your encouragement means the world to me; you have helped “lovely living” grow internationally. Thank you! I look forward to meeting more of you in 2025! 

Xx 

Holly 

The Magic of Candlelight: Merry and Bright!

Rejoice for Candlelight! Candlelight symbolizes joy, romance, tranquility, and merriment. Christmas and the start of Hanukkah fall on the same day this year, December 25, 2024, so the topic of “candles” seems fitting. They have long been integral in celebrations, playing an essential part in the rituals of both Christmas and Hanukkah, and continue to have a magical essence while entertaining. 

A handsome Georgian Irish oval, candlelit mirror, c.1790, from Fileman Antiques, England., has transcended time with its classical design.

This holiday season, let's light more candles! They have a unique ability to create significant moments, transforming any gathering into something brilliant and celebratory. From churches to dinner parties and even atop birthday cakes, candles have been part of our celebrations for over 5,000 years.

As my Mummy always said, “A candlelit dinner magically becomes more memorable!” As a young bride, she shared a secret with me: “Candlelight makes whatever you’re serving taste even better!” That was a golden nugget; it has served me well for fifty years! 

Here is a candle secret for you for your dinner table! My dear friend, Janice Q. from Palm Beach, shared: "Candles should be tall enough that the flame is above your guests’ faces, so it doesn’t cast shadows. Holly, if you don’t believe me, try lighting a candle in a dark room and look at yourself in the mirror. The higher you place it, the better you’ll look!" I did, and guess what? She is right… an easy and magical way of flattering everyone at the table. Tonight, give it a whirl with taller candles! 

A Georgian, candlelit gilt girandole in the dining room at Fox Hall reflects the crystal chandelier in the distance.

GrandMillenial Tips

-Beware of air conditioning or open window breezes, which can wreak havoc on lit candles. I learned this lesson the hard way. An A/C vent in our Palm Beach home blew downward on the dining room wall sconces, causing the wax to drip onto the silk seats of a pair of Hepplewhite chairs. Let’s just say it was a rawwwther expensive dinner party!

Our dinner guest, the Duchess of Rutland, Emma Manners, in our dining room in Palm Beach, discussing the color on the ceiling. (Can you spy the vexing A/C vent above us?)

-Place your candles in front of a mirror to double the effect of your candles. This technique has been used for centuries to create a stunning visual display. Edith Wharton once said, “There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or… the mirror that reflects it.” While filming my television series with Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill, I marveled at the candlelit candelabras in front of a pair of pier mirrors placed between the windows in the private dining room at Blenheim Palace. You can see this in the PBS television series I hosted here. 

-For candle wax mishaps on your table, don’t fret! A rubber pancake spatula is forgiving and perfect for scraping wax drips off. It's a small trick that can save you from scratching your table with a knife.

A Forbidden Faux Pas

No-no: To have a white, unblackened wick on a candle. An old-school secret tradition I was taught is that candles should always have their “white wick” blackened before installing them in a candlestick holder, candelabra, or chandelier. This small but traditional secret detail indicates that a candle isn’t just for show— it is meant to be used.

Why are white or ivory candles still the most appropriate choice for formal settings? The reason behind this dates back to candle history. Candles were initially made from tallow (animal fat or oils), but beeswax was introduced in the Middle Ages as a more refined alternative. Beeswax candles have a natural honey color, but they were sun-bleached to a pale shade to make them more affordable. Due to their higher cost, white and ivory candles were considered luxurious and used primarily in noble residences, palaces, and churches. Today, white candles continue to evoke elegance and tradition, making them the perfect choice for any occasion. They are my candle color of choice. 

Embrace the beauty of candlelight, creating a festive and joyful atmosphere. May your holidays be merry and bright... with even more candlelight!

Thank you, dear ones, for your continued support and encouragement. I am genuinely grateful to all of you! 

Xx 

Holly

PS: What a gift if you could kindly inspire just one new friend to subscribe!

"Holly-Day" Dinner Parties: How to be the hostess with the mostess!

Fox Hall, during the Christmas season, is magical, merry, and bright, especially in candlelight. My dear grandchildren decorated the table for this dinner party, hence the army of nutcrackers… I didn't know I had so many! 

The holidays are upon us, so here are some of my secrets for creating memories that are merry and bright for your guests! Hosting a dinner party (or inviting houseguests to stay over) is the best way to make your house sparkle… and a clever nudge to get all of the silver polished!

Unlock your front door and adhere a small card outside on the door, inviting guests to enter the house without knocking. I always write: “Please, do come in!” This way, they do not feel obliged to stand in the cold elements of Connecticut until the door is answered. 

Do your very best to greet each guest at the door. And vice versa. At the end of the evening, walk them to the door to say goodbye. 

Offer ladies to place their purses down on a chair or table, if they wish to.

Before your event, ask if your guests have any food dislikes or allergies, or if they are vegetarians. It's always better to know in advance and be prepared!

You may have guests who prefer non-alcoholic drinks; be sure to have something else to serve them. One of our friends adores ginger beer, a non-alcoholic drink that I keep on hand for him. 

The festive “holly” embellished linens were a hostess gift from a dear friend. I think of her every time I use them in December. This is a lovely gift-giving idea to remember!

Write your guest’s names on their placecards and take time to decide, when you have a moment, the best seating plan for conversation among your guests. The Gentleman guest of honor is seated to the right of the hostess. The Lady guest of honor is seated to the right of the host.  

Replenish your candlesticks, if they are less than halfway down, with new white candles. Remember, always to blacken the wicks… this is an old-school tradition! Blackened wicks indicate that you know candles are not just decorative accessories; they are used. 

Lower the lights in the evening, and remember, candlelight is not only romantic but also enhances everyone’s appearance AND makes everything taste better, too!

Wine bottles are either placed on a wine coaster or, more formally, poured into crystal decanters. Traditionally, a bottle of wine or decanter is placed on either end of the dining room table. My book, The Pretty and Proper Living Room, discusses this tradition in more detail. 

If there is no waitstaff, the host pours the wine. But if the host is in deep conversation or busy, any gentleman guest may take it upon himself to pour the wine for guests seated next to him, serving others before he serves himself.

For large parties, with guests that have never been to your house, have a little card indicating “Powder Room” on the door. It is thoughtful, especially if it is next to another door you don’t want anyone to enter. Guests do not want to have to ask. 

If you plan to have a fire in the fireplace, ensure your house remains cool enough that your guests, especially those seated near the fireplace, do not swelter from the heat.

Forbidden Faux Pas:

No-no: A centerpiece that is so high that it restricts guests' views of one another. Keep your centerpieces low so your guests can enjoy their conversation and have eye contact across the table with other guests.  

No-no: To have your dog or cat greet your guests. Your pets should be put away in another room. Not everyone is an animal lover, and some people may have allergies or be afraid of animals. (Miss Zsa Zsa, our Jack Russell Terrier, does not concur with this no-no!) 

No-no: To place your phone on the dining room table. If a guest has a babysitter or needs to be on call, they should tell the hostess they may need access to their phone and place it in their pocket or lap (with vibration on, no ringer).

No-no: Playing music too loud.  If dinner music is played, it should be so soft that everyone can carry on a normal conversation. Nothing is more disturbing than being unable to carry on a civilized conversation and being forced to raise one’s voice due to the overzealous sound of music. (We have all experienced that dreadful challenge at wedding receptions!)

May the joyful sound of laughter and merriment fill your house this season. Cheers! 

Xx

Holly

PS: My Equestrian Collection, a five piece premium, dishwasher safe porcelain, is on a “secret give-away” sale price. Take a peek at www.ShopHollyHolden.com. What a splendid gift, if I do say so myself, for anyone who appreciates anything horsey!

For an inscribed gift copy of my first book, place your order on Amazon soon!  

The Magic of Petite Christmas Decorations!

For our first Christmas at Fox Hall, we went all out with a 15-foot live tree that touched the ceiling of our living room! But after two weeks, the branches became so stiff that when we went to take it down, our son had to use a chainsaw to get it out the door. That’s when we decided to switch to an artificial tree!

As we embrace and celebrate this joyous season, as in Norman Vincent Peale's words, “Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.” 

Use your magic wand to create a few charming “petite vignettes” to add a dash of magic to your home. I’ve found joy in creating sweet, small holiday displays that bring beauty and nostalgia to our home. Sometimes, the most treasured moments come in the tiniest packages, like tender loving gestures. Discovering a few lilliputian-sized, festive displays can be a treasured delight, adding to this season's magic, while conjuring the lovely memories of Christmases past. 

Every year, a collection of miniature Austrian bronze deer make a quiet appearance on the sideboard in our dining room. They graze peacefully near a tiny candle tree, a nod to the elegance and tranquility of Christmas.

Joy to the world! My childhood beloved set of angels, once owned by my grandmother, dance around a petite tree in the front hall. Their well-worn patina brings memories of the Velveteen Rabbit, and their simple charm never fails to inspire happy thoughts.

One of my most cherished traditions is winding up this miniature musical tree, a keepsake that fills the room with soft, sweet music. As the first note plays, I can almost feel my parents' presence with me in spirit, while I arrange the delicate hand-carved angel orchestra from Germany, each piece a reminder of love and tradition.

Even the tiniest touches can add festive cheer. I often place an ornament, like this little Herend bunny elf, on a tray of hors d’oeuvres. A dab of poster board clay at the base keeps it from tipping over, and the gold-tipped shoes add a whimsical, merry touch.

It’s the little things that count! Holiday memories are often made of small, meaningful moments. Whether it’s a cherished ornament or a family tradition,  petite decorations offer a graceful nod to the season's magic. May this holiday be sweeter than sugar plums, filled with joy, love, and treasured “little” moments.

Xx

Holly

PS- A thoughtful holiday gift for equestrian lovers! There are a few EQUESTRIAN COLLECTION 5-piece porcelain sets available with a “secret price” only for you. See it on Instagram here.  HO, Ho, ho!  “On a one-horse open sleigh!”

Glove Glam: Jewelry and Opera Gloves!

A pinnacle of regal elegance, HM The Late Queen Elizabeth II, remains in our hearts worldwide.

Photo Source: @british.royal.crown- Instagram 

It is December, the season of festive parties! If you are fortunate enough to be invited to a White-tie ball or a formal party, consider wearing opera-length gloves as an elegant accessory with your long gown. 

As the past Chair of the Salvation Army of Palm Beach County’s “Paradise Ball,” for their centennial White-tie celebration in 2022, I have received questions about the appropriateness of wearing jewelry on top of opera-length gloves. Opera-length gloves reach over the elbow and are the epitome of formal elegance. 

The answer is yes! One can wear a bracelet on top of an opera glove on either wrist. An evening bracelet may be worn over a glove, but not rings. Rings are worn underneath a glove.

Stuart and I attended an elegant “pink-themed” dinner dance with Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill at Blenheim Palace in Woodstock, England, this past July 2024. It was a most magical evening.
Photo credit: Mark Forbes. 

Here are a few etiquette guidelines when wearing opera-length gloves:

Can you drink with gloves on?

Yes, it is acceptable to drink with your gloves on. 

Can you eat with gloves on?

No! Eating with gloves on, whether standing or seated at a dining table, is not done. 

So, how does a lady eat when wearing opera gloves?

The mousquetaire “button” option allows one to unbutton the buttons under one's wrist and semi-remove one's gloves, so the hand is glove-free to dine. Once the buttons are undone, a lady can pull her hand out from the opening and neatly tuck the remainder of the glove up the wrist and inside the gloves.  

Alternatively, one may gracefully remove the gloves by gently pushing the arm portion toward the wrist while pulling each finger until the glove slips off.  

If the gloves do not have the mousquetaire buttons, where does one place the evening gloves once they are removed while seated at a formal dinner? 

After you remove your gloves, fold them in half and place them on your lap with your napkin over them. You may remove the gloves before being seated or at the dinner table. 

After dinner, one may put the gloves back on by placing the hand in and working the glove up from the wrist, then gradually smoothing the glove up the arm. Try not to pull from the top. 

May I wear gloves other than white?

Opera-length gloves can be made of leather, silk, or satin.  The most traditional, and my preference, are elegant “white leather, full-length opera gloves with mousquetaire.”  Cornelia James holds a Royal Warrant and made gloves for the late Queen Elizabeth for over 70 years.  

Do you want to cover your arm completely with your opera gloves?

No, a bit of your arm should be showing.  So, if you have a capped sleeve, you may wish to rouche the top of the opera-length glove down a bit because a portion of the arm should always be visible. 

Do you wear evening gloves while dancing?

Yes, indeed!

Should you wear your formal gloves when shaking hands or while standing in a receiving line? 

Yes, you may shake hands with evening gloves on, except when shaking hands with the President, the First Lady, or a high-ranking church or government official. 

Should you take your glove off when presenting your hand to be kissed? 

You may keep your glove on when a gentleman is kissing your hand. This is such a charming, old-world European tradition. I will never forget when my German son-in-law kissed my hand upon our first meeting… I thought to myself, "He is a keeper." And he is! 

When our youngest daughter Caroline (in white) made her debut at The Infirmary Ball in New York City, it was a few days before Christmas. Family and friends came from afar to celebrate with us, and it was the perfect occasion to wear opera-length gloves.

Discussing various aspects of old-world elegance is a delight and a gracious time when gentle manners mattered. Let’s keep these traditions alive!  

Xx 

Holly

PS: Please take a peek at the bracelets that my sponsor, Elizabeth Gate has to offer- each one a work of masterpiece art. 

Holly's Secret Sourthern "Cheese Crispies"

These Cheese Crispies were made in the “dollop-style,” not perfectly rolled into little balls!

My Cheese Crispies are the perfect nibble to offer your guests upon arrival for cocktail hour. They are my signature hors d’oeuvre!  Not only are they delicious, but they are also easy to make, store well in the refrigerator, and freeze well. They never fail to garner oodles of compliments! 

This recipe is simple to remember:

1 cup + 1 cup + 1 cup + 1 stick of butter = only four ingredients 

(Add a few dashes of red pepper flakes, too)

You can make them ahead of time and either keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator (they keep for a month) or place them in a Ziploc baggie and freeze them! 

You may reheat them in the oven, just long enough to be warm, but they are also delicious cold. Are you in a pinch for time, or do you have friends dropping in for an impromptu drink? Pull them out of the refrigerator and microwave for 30 seconds to quickly warm them. 

Holly’s Secret Southern “Cheese Crispies”

Heat oven to 350 degrees 

1 cup (filled up) sharp cheddar cheese at room temperature

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 stick of salted butter- softened

1 cup rice crispies 

Add a pinch of salt (optional) and a generous sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Step 1: Mix everything in a food processor until a soft ball forms, except for the rice crispies. 

Step 2: Add a pinch of salt. Sprinkle in red pepper flakes to give as much “kick” as you desire!

Step 3: Pulse in the rice crispies until mixed in the dough. (You want the rice crispies to remain semi-crunchy!) 

Form the dough into teaspoon-sized balls or dollop a teaspoon-sized amount onto the greased cookie sheet. They can be placed ½” apart, as they don’t spread out. 

Sprinkle a little more red pepper flakes on top before baking. You can decide how spicy you want them! 

Bake at 350 degrees for about 8-14 minutes, until lightly browned.  

This makes about 24-30 balls, depending on the size. Serve warm, preferably.  

Note: Why not make two batches at a time while you're at it? Then, you’ll have some “inventory on hand” to serve at a moment's notice. 

These cheese crispies were rolled into little balls instead of dollops, but my mouse loves them either way! 

Let a little Herend mouse hop onto your serving plate for the perfect whimsical adornment. Your guests will gobble these up, I promise! Happy Thanksgiving! 

Xx 

Holly 

PS Please take a peek at my fabulous sponsors and forward this recipe to a friend. Perhaps they will be inspired to subscribe too! 

THE Holly-Jolly Christmas Gift Guide!

My first book, The Pretty and Proper Living Room, now in its second printing, will be HALF PRICE for today and tomorrow, November 18th and 19th! (Retail $55, sale $28)  I wrote this book for my daughter, Alexandra, when she first married. She asked me how to decorate her first “big girl house” to look like the house she grew up in, and requested that I include the Forbidden Faux Pas too!   

Holly-Jolly Christmas Days! With a name like Holly, you can understand how much I adore this magical time of year. 'Tis the season of giving. Many of you have asked me to share some of my go-to gift items… so Ho-Ho-Ho, let’s go! 

 🎄Holly’s Gifts 2024 🎄
(Presents for both naughty and nice!)

1. A set of four Sterling Silver Studs are handsomely detailed with an enameled design and made in England. Their price point makes them perfect for traveling over “Hill and Dale” to a Black tie event anywhere in the world! 

2. A pair of classic Fox Head men's slippers (a staple at Fox Hall!) are comfy for lounging and stunningly attractive. They would be perfect for twirling around the Christmas tree and kissing under the mistletoe. 

3. This dapper Nickle Fox Head Umbrella will be a well-appointed accessory for your sleigh, ready to fend off rain or snow elegantly. It will also be a smashing addition to a front-door umbrella stand.

4. Here is a clever “town & country”  accessory- a pair of Sterling Silver and Enamel Fox Head Cufflinks. They give a quiet, yet sensibly sly, nod to England, even though they are handmade in Italy!  

5. I inherited Mummy’s gold Christmas Tree, just like this one. It is, without a doubt, my most favorite Christmas decoration. Once it is on our coffee table on December first, I almost hear the angels singing! It is such a lovely gift for someone who has everything.  

6. Happy tulips!  A set of pink round tablemats and coasters say “Happy Spring” all year long! I adore these because I can quickly set the table, wipe them off as needed (as in when the grandchildren visit!), and also feel that I am in an English country house, even in Palm Beach. They are a timeless classic for your table any time of day. 

7. For that “special” son or son-in-law, this set of Mother of Pearl and Sapphire Studs will be a handsomely festive gift that will last a lifetime. 

8. I adore Weezie Towels! Their Bow Towel is perfect for a powder room, as well as the kitchen. They are soft and beautifully appointed with various monogram styles, including applique, and feature a sweet edging to complement your color scheme.  My video about “whose initials go first for a married couple’s monogram” for their Master Bedroom and Bathroom towels is on Instagram. 

Please use code HOLLY15 to receive 15% off your Weezie order. No minimums, one use per customer. The code is active 11/18/24 - 11/29/24

9. This enchanting hat, by designer Leslie Dasch’s fabulous brand, “Dress for Cocktails,”features a stylish array of preppy-colored bows that can be magnetically interchanged to complement any outfit. I adore her hats in Palm Beach and in New England. When Leslie created a “Holly Holden Bow” in my signature pink edged in green, I was tickled pink! If you order her hat with a Holly Bow, you will also receive a free additional bow in the color of your choice too! A ribbon inside the hat adjusts the size, allowing it to fit anyone properly. Use code: HOLLYHOLIDAY when ordering from their website. 
 

The vendors above offer stellar products and charmingly professional customer service. I am proud to share my 10 secret gift choices with you!  If you want to give yourself a stylish gift, order a divinely bespoke or ready-to-wear outfit, peek at: Holly Holden Collection with Gramercy Atelier. You will be the sparkle at any event. 

Happy Christmas, as they say in England! 

Xx

Holly

PS: Perhaps you can share this letter HERE with a friend who may be inspired to subscribe. The more the merrier! 

Patricia's Apple Pie

At a recent dinner party in Palm Beach, I served this pie recipe and, as usual, it was a resounding hit! 

As a bride of 21, Stuart and I drove to Michigan after our honeymoon, where my darling new husband studied for his MBA.  It was a long way from my home in Virginia. We moved into not-so-glamorous married-student housing, which to us, was glorious! We didn’t know a soul there.   Gratefully, Stuart introduced me to one of his classmates, Ricardo Mayer, and his wife, Patricia, another newlywed couple from Rio de Janeiro. They instantly became (lifelong)  friends, and are Godparents to our son. 

Patricia and I decided to host a dinner every other Saturday night so we could learn to cook various dishes, with the prerequisite being that we had to cook something we had never made before. Well, we had some interesting high and low notes, as you can imagine!  But, one dessert Patricia made in particular was a huge hit… simply divine! We forever referred to it as “Patricia’s Apple Pie!”

A year later, we moved to Connecticut, where I joined the Junior League. One evening, a member called me before their big “bake-off” competition event and asked me to contribute a dessert. It was late, but I just happened to have the cream cheese and apples, and the other ingredients are always a constant in my kitchen. So, that night, I made “Patricia’s Apple Pie.”

Guess what… I WON!🎉

The Hartford Courant Newspaper was there to cover the story and photograph me with the winning dessert!  They asked if I would share my recipe.  I thought it was an old family recipe, so I felt obliged to ask Patricia first before I gave it away.  I rang her in Rio, and with her charming South American accent, she said, “Oh, Holy, (love how she pronounces my name!) no, this is not a family recipe. I cut it out of a Philadelphia Cream Cheese advertisement in The New York Times!” I responded, “Really? Ha, I had no idea!” I tweaked the recipe just enough for it to officially become “Patricia’s” Apple Pie, and it is indeed, a WINNER!

While there are three steps to making it, it is easy to do the second time after you have made it once.  It looks more like a tart or deep-dish pie than a traditional “pie.”  This is our family’s most favorite apple dessert; it is always served at Thanksgiving, along with a pumpkin pie, of course!

Patricia’s Apple Pie!

Heat the oven to 450 degrees.

Part I

½ cup butter

⅓ cup sugar

¼ tsp vanilla

½  tsp almond extract 

1 cup all-purpose flour

Part II

8 oz cream cheese, softened

¼ cup sugar

1 egg

½ tsp vanilla

½ tsp almond extract

Part III

¾ cup sugar

2 tsp cinnamon 

Dash of ground cloves or allspice

3-5 peeled apples, sliced

Optional: ¼ cup sliced almonds

Step I: Cream butter, sugar, vanilla and almond extract with an electric mixer. Blend in flour. Spread on the bottom and sides of a 9” springform pan. 

Step II: Beat the cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the egg, vanilla, and almond extracts and pour the mixture into a pastry-lined springform pan. 

Step III: Combine sugar, cinnamon, and cloves in a bowl. Press each apple slice into this mixture and arrange in circles over the cream cheese mixture until the entire surface is covered. (This is the time consuming part!) Optional: Sprinkle with sliced almonds. 

Bake at 450 degrees for 10 minutes.  Then reduce heat to 400 degrees and bake for 25-35 minutes, or more, until lightly browned.

- FYI Place the springform pan on a baking sheet lined with foil because occasionally some butter leaks out while baking. This will save you from cleaning it up on the bottom of the oven! 

Let it cool a bit before using a knife to loosen the sides of the pie. Then, remove the collar of the springform pan. Do not try to remove the bottom of the pan; just serve from it. I place the pie onto a pretty serving plate to serve.  

Here is my Instagram version!

This is incredibly yummy when served warm with a dollop of French Vanilla ice cream! I hope you enjoy it too, any time of year. Thank YOU, Patricia!

Xx

Holly

PS Please take a peek at my fabulous sponsors and forward this recipe to a friend. Perhaps they will be inspired to subscribe too! 

Election Day! How to Properly Fly Your Flag!

Stuart and I are proud to live in the historic village of Farmington, settled in 1640. American flags hang on the street poles along Main Street from May until September, and we hang ours over the front door at Fox Hall most of the year.

November 5th, 2024 is Election Day!

In 1789, the first presidential election took place, and George Washington was elected President of the United States.  Voting is an extraordinary privilege in the United States. Since 1776, we Americans have celebrated a “star-spangled,” Independence Day in America. Now, more than ever, we need to vote. Let’s celebrate America with extra vigor. Perhaps we will all be inspired to proudly display an American flag to honor our great country and our right to vote. Flying a flag, the emblem of our identity as a sovereign nation, honors our great country. 

The protocol for hanging a flag:

-When a flag is projected out from a building on a pole, the Union (the blue background with 50 stars to commemorate our states) should be at the top and in front of the pole…you know this!  

-Where does the Union go if you hang the American flag vertically on a wall? It is placed at the top and should be to the observer’s left!

The protocol for a flag displayed on a flagpole at night:

-A flag should be lit up if displayed outside at night. (I confess, the floodlight for our flag, which hangs over the front door at Fox Hall, is on a timer, which turns off at midnight!) 

The protocol for when a flag is being hoisted up a flagpole:

-Spectators not in military uniform should face the flag and place their right hand over their hearts. 

-If a gentleman is wearing a hat, it is removed and held in his hand over his heart.

-Military spectators in uniform should render the military salute. 

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

My father served in the U.S. Army. He taught me to respect our flag and appreciate our voting privileges as Americans. Stuart and I have traditionally brought our children when we voted, even as babies in baskets! In our historic village of Farmington, aka “Charmington,” flags are hung on alternating street poles along Main Street. This admirable patriotic display constantly reminds us of our freedom as a democratic nation. 

Happy Election Day! 

God Bless America! 

Xx

Holly

Halloween Decorating: An Elegant Approach!

The English tea table in the foyer at Fox Hall is decorated with a quiet nod to Halloween.

 BOO!

On Halloween, I prefer to decorate my home “bewitchingly beautiful” rather than with a spooky, larger-than-life scary theme. I have never been keen on over-the-top Halloween decorations, probably because my parents did not advocate that kind of decorating. Not to say that it is not amusing to see others who embrace skeletons and giant spiderwebs, but for me, a more elegant Halloween celebratory style is what I prefer to create for Fox Hall. 

As a child, I carved pumpkins and went trick-or-treating, the same traditions we continue to enjoy with our now extended family.  When our three children were young, it was a treat to make their costumes (you don’t see much of that anymore) and also to recycle some of my own costumes that I wore as a child, including a formal Japanese kimono (wig and all), a colorful Hawaiian grass skirt, and a much-loved Dutch girl outfit. 

Our longstanding “Holden family” tradition for dinner on Halloween Eve? Hamburgers and milkshakes. There is nothing like indulging in a chocolate milkshake just before commencing this candy-gathering evening… so why not go all out on the sugary aspect, right?!

My secret for Halloween decorating? I relish repurposing several decorative items I find around the house and adorning them with a Halloween flair. It is SO easy to embellish a Staffordshire dog with an orange ribbon collar, collect fall-colored mums from the garden to make an arrangement, use a silver Revere bowl filled with colorful gourds, and fill a silver basket with candy corn.  I want the Halloween aura to feel fashionably festive, not scary!

Four years ago, my daughter-in-law Karen (then expecting our grandson), and I made a video about Halloween decorating. The YouTube video shares some tips for creating a festive Halloween atmosphere without going “overboard scary!”  You’ll see firsthand our “Victor the Vulture.” Even though he is over 30 years old and rather feather-bare, he festively flies in to perch at the front door of Fox Hall, where he greets trick-or-treaters on Halloween Eve. 

Besides Victor, my darling husband Stuart also enjoys greeting the children.  He turns out the lights in the front hall, slowly walks to the door with heavy foot stomps and a lit candelabra in hand, and boldly inquires, “Who’s…. there?!!” while slowly opening the door.  Then, he jovially offers his favorite candy (BIG Snickers bars), and the children all love it! 

So, what about you? How do you decorate for Halloween?

I hope you have a “boo-utiful” Halloween!

Xx, Holly

PS: Please inspire a friend to subscribe by forwarding this letter to them! 

Do you need to write a thank-you note for a "Hostess Gift?"

It is nowhere near the holidays, but giving my book, with a personal inscription, is one of my go-to hostess gifts any time of year!

Who doesn’t love to be surprised by a thoughtful hostess gift from a guest when they enter your house for a party? A hostess gift is not a requirement; it is simply a lovely gesture to show appreciation for the invitation.

One of my darling Virginia subscribers asked me this question below:

“We are fortunate to invite lovely friends to our parties who bring various hostess gifts. I am one to send a handwritten note to thank each person for their thoughtfulness. Once, I mailed a thank you note for a hostess gift, and the recipient responded — via text — chastising me for sending a thank you before she could even get hers written and in the mail. [Ironically, I never received a handwritten note from her!!!]  So, should I wait a week after the event to send thank you notes for hostess gifts, or should I mail them promptly after the event?”

This prompted me to consider and debate the following: Is it required to write a note to thank a guest who brings you a “hostess gift?”

I do not believe there is a proper yes or no to this question; it is more of a personal preference.  Acknowledging any gift verbally or with a note is always thoughtful, though! 

Here are some examples of hostess gifts that I have given: Countess Grey loose tea from Fortnum & Mason, notecards from the Blenheim Palace gift store, chocolate sauce (when I do not have time to make it!) from Teuscher- NYC, notecards from Smythson Bond Street in London, and playing cards from Tiffany & Company. 

As a recipient of many “hostess gifts,” my rule of thumb is to write a thank you note for gifts that I consider to be “somewhat extravagant, or exceptionally meaningful,” such as an elegant picture frame with a relevant photograph enclosed, an Assouline-published coffee table book, or an exceptional floral arrangement delivered to the door the day before the event. I will make an effort to write a thank you note of appreciation to the guest and mail it within a few days of my event.   

Alternatively, I usually do not write to thank the guests for the tried-and-true quintessential hostess gifts such as a bottle of wine, elegant soaps, a box of chocolates, homemade jam, local honey, imported olive oil, or a bouquet from the garden. Instead, I make a point of thanking them verbally, either in person or over the phone, and share how much I have enjoyed the chocolates, jam, etc. A hostess gift is a sweet way for a guest to say “thank you” in advance for your hospitality, and they do not expect a note back, even though it is always a kind gesture! 

Sometimes, guests will slip a hostess gift somewhere in the house for me to find the next day… I discovered this box of chocolates leaning next to a reindeer in our kitchen. It was undoubtedly well-received by our family! 

 Attach a note or gift tag indicating your name on or in a hostess gift. It can be disconcerting to figure out who gave you the gift. This darling topiary tag is from WH Hostess.

 GrandMillenial Tips:

~ If you receive a bottle of wine or champagne as a hostess gift, try to purposely serve it to the person who gave it to you in the future.  Make a date to drink it together.

~ When I give a bottle of champagne, I use a gold felt pen to sign on the glass portion of the bottle with “Cheers!” or “Happy Birthday!” adding a “Xoxo Holly & Stuart.”

Forbidden Faux Pas:

No-No: To expect the hostess or host to open the gift upon your arrival.

What is done:  If the hostess wishes to open your gift and is not busy greeting other guests, it is thoughtful for the hostess to ask, “May I open your gift now?”  Sometimes, the gift giver would prefer that you open their gift after they have left. 

No-No: Expecting the hostess or host to serve the wine, champagne, or chocolate you brought them at their event.  

What is done: Let the hostess serve what she has planned to serve for the event. She will incorporate your gift if she wants to.  

So, with the above in mind, cheers to more parties!

Xx 

Holly

PS: Please inspire a friend to subscribe by forwarding this letter to them! 

Super Simple and Decadent Hot Chocolate Sauce!

It is always a joy to cook with my grandchildren! Miss Charlotte lives up the street from us in Farmington, so we often enjoy making recipes together for parties at Fox Hall. 

Are guests coming over? Do you need a decadent dessert in a pinch?  Chocolate sauce is my favorite because I usually have the ingredients on hand!  Here are my two SIMPLE recipes for making chocolate sauce: one requires unsweetened baking chocolate and the other uses semi-sweet chocolate chips.  Both take no time at all to make, and when served warm, you may be surprised how guests will want to pour it over everything and anything edible… both recipes are THAT yummy!

1st Recipe: Makes 1 cup of Chocolate Sauce

• 8 little squares of Baker’s unsweetened baking chocolate-  (NOTE: Baker’s changed the size of the baking squares. Now, 4 little squares equals one of the previous big squares!) 

• 6 tablespoons of cream - (Heavy, light, or half and half: use whatever cream you have. I do prefer to use heavy whipping cream when I have it!)

• ½ cup of sugar  - (If possible, try to get  “superfine sugar.” I always have a box of it in my pantry, but regular granulated sugar works too)

• 2 tablespoons of salted butter, not sweet

• 1 teaspoon of Grand Marnier liquor, or vanilla extract (I add more to taste)

•  Pinch of salt

Melt chocolate and cream over low heat, preferably in a double boiler.  

Add sugar and pinch of salt.

Turn off the heat, add the butter and the Grand Marnier, or vanilla extract. 

Stir constantly until the texture is smooth, and serve it warm.  

You can make in advance and reheat in a double boiler or over very low heat to serve it warm. 

2nd Recipe:  Make as much or as little as you want, depending on the ratio below: 

• Chocolate chips, semi sweet

• Cream (heavy, light or half and half. I prefer heavy whipping cream)

• Add a splash of Grand Marnier liquor or vanilla extract, to taste

For every half cup of chocolate chips, stir in half of that amount with cream. 

Create a thick, creamy chocolate sauce by melting the chocolate chips with the cream, and stir constantly in either a double boiler or, in a saucepan over very low heat. (I add a little more cream to make my desired consistency.)

Serve warm.

Mummy’s old double boiler has continued to serve me well for making chocolate sauce.  Her silver gravy bowl and ladle are the perfect size for a dinner party. I either have it passed, or let the guests pass it to one another. A small cream pitcher is perfect for grandchildren to pour! 

The first recipe is a bit more entailed, but both are truly divine!  Let your guests pour it over their ice cream, cake, pie, brownies, and/or fruit… you name it. There is something about pouring chocolate sauce… it elevates any dessert, making it memorable and decadent!  Yum Yummm! 

I created a “taste test” by offering both sauces, ( Recipe #1 and Recipe #2) along with vanilla ice cream, to Charlotte and my husband, Stuart. They voted. Guess which one was their favorite?!

Xx

Holly