A Weekend in the Country: Millbrook, New York

Please join me behind the scenes for a Christmas weekend that surely must be the Millbrook, New York version of updated Downton Abbey (just not quite so over the top).…

Toasting the Memories of 2016

It’s been a really great year! We’re breaking out the champagne and hope you’ll join us as we reflect upon some of our most iconic pictures of 2016. Happy 2017!

Newport’s Holiday Doorways

Our “City by the Sea” was founded in 1639, so the Colonial influence looms large in our history. Known as Newport’s “Golden Age” (as opposed to the “Gilded Age” of…

There’s Snow Place Like Home for the Holidays

Whimsical, childlike, nostalgic…a holiday collection of old and not-so-old snow scenes…curated by a dear friend’s husband. Working for weeks on assembling the details down to the last dusting of snow,…

Last Minute Gift Wrapping Ideas

So many people think that beautifully wrapped gifts are only found under someone else’s Christmas tree — or in a window on Fifth Avenue designed by some highly paid professional.…

Christmas Windows of New York

Christmas carries such personal traditions for each of us. One of mine is taking place this week — an annual mid-December trip to New York City. It wouldn’t seem like…

Winter Wonderland: Creating a Snowy Centerpiece

Christmas is magical. Here at Parterre, we love adding a bit more magic to the holidays with a fanciful centerpiece, one that I’ve loved recreating over the years…perhaps because it’s…

A Gilded Christmas, Newport Style

Newport’s 375 year history comes gloriously alive at Christmas. From the early Colonial days to the extravagant Gilded Age, our “City by the Sea” is in a most celebratory mood.…

Inspiration for Christmas Decorating

Can you believe it’s the last month of the year? I think I’ll just slip into it, continuing our Fall focus on the gorgeous trees of Newport and choosing one…

Make Your Own Wreath for the Holidays

After the Christmas tree, wreaths seem to be that perennial holiday decoration that is most dear to everyone’s heart. And making your own wreath is part of many family’s cherished…