As dinner parties begin, dressing the table is always a production. More often than not, I am seeing less of the traditional table cloth and more of the natural appeal of the dining table itself shine through. Most of these bare back tablescapes are using the oversized ambience of chargers to create a marvelous place

The holidays sometimes don’t feel very relaxing. With time off to spend with the family, we should be resting and renewing ourselves for the new year. Instead, the holidays can be stressful and overwhelming with packages to purchase and dinners to serve. Often times it is nice to just get away, yet it can also

Everything is bigger in Texas. I am sure you have heard it, and perhaps even scoffed at it. However, the longer I live here in Dallas, the more I find it to be true. Dallas does little things in big ways, and often with great style. I am always reminded about how awe inspiring the

Snakes and crocodiles! Many people hate them. My mother can’t even look at a snake on a television screen. While they can both be quite deadly and very terrifying, they also have a luxurious and fabulous appeal in a home. Texture is something I am constantly noticing and admiring. It is necessary for the composition

You may have a pretty tree, but do you have pretty wrapping? I grew up with my mother making an exceptional effort to find the most tasteful papers, bags, cards and tissues. While the tree was the focal point, the presents underneath possessed their own type of magic. After all, isn’t life all about how

I think I speak for everyone when I say that there is just not enough time in the day. With a busy Monday ahead, I wanted to show you one of my favorite homes full of decadent and dramatic Christmas decor. Mary McDonald’s Beverly Hills home was decked for the halls and featured in Veranda

Okay…I’ll admit it. I am not a red person. I mean, if we are talking about wine, then yes. However, I find myself in a very tumultuous relationship with the color red. Like paisley, water chesnuts, and trips on small planes, it is something I prefer only in small quantities. Of course, there are some people

First impressions are everything. The same goes for your home. As holiday parties begin this month, it is important to show your spirited and tasteful decor before your guests even walk through the door. While it is what is on the inside that counts, there is nothing more pleasant than seeing a neighborhood of chic decked

A couple of weeks ago, a good friend of mine living in New York City, asked me for some advice on decorating her small SoHo apartment. As many of you have heard me say here before, a space does not have to be large to be effective. In fact, I prefer a small space since it can

There are some patterns that just evoke the time of a certain season. In my opinion, plaid is most definitely one of them. A cozy splash of plaid in green or red hues is the perfect accompaniment for a cold night. It may be a more masculine print, yet plaid gives a rich and historical appeal