Inspiring Garden Design: Parterre in the Snow
I’ve been wistfully looking back at snow images from the last two to three years, a spectacle we’ve missed so far this month. Of course, with such tempting images at… Read More
Author: Bettie Bearden Pardee
Inspiring Garden Design: A Classic French Sanctuary
One of Newport’s most pristine estates, the 9 acre Ker Arvor (French Breton for “seaside”), is what I affectionately refer to as a design trifecta — an exceptional example of… Read More
Inspiring Garden Design: 8 Tips for Creating a Sunken Garden
It is perhaps difficult to believe that behind this formal chateau (above) is a sunken garden that in its simplicity provides the lessons for creating your own version. But indeed… Read More
Inspiring Garden Design: Express Your Personality!
January is a much anticipated month for me! I welcome some downtime after the excitement of the holidays to sit by the fire, reflect and plan for the opening of… Read More
Newport Society: The Passing of a Legend
My first post of the New Year is in honor of Marion Oates Charles, a legendary hostess and fixture of society in Newport and Washington D.C. since the 1950’s. “Oatsie,”… Read More
18 Memorable Pictures for 2018
Trusting you all enjoyed a heartwarming Christmas, rich with family and friends. This now quiet period between Santa’s arrival and the fireworks of New Year’s Eve I’ve found to be… Read More
New York’s Holiday Windows
If it is possible, New York this December was sparkling and glittering even more than last year. How fortuitous, as this “New York Windows” post has become a reader’s favorite.… Read More
The Holiday Parterre Bench
For me, as for many of us, Christmas decorating is steeped in tradition. The treasured hand-me-down and collected-over-the-years ornaments that are lovingly hung on the tree just as they have… Read More
“O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree…”
Newport’s “cottages” are indeed a big draw in the summer, but so many visitors miss one of its truly breathtaking seasons — the Holidays! Decorations galore dress up already significant… Read More
A Vanderbilt-Inspired Holiday Mantel
It was a dream invitation, especially at this time of the year — come in and pick out your favorite new ornaments that have just arrived and create a holiday… Read More