SENDING CHEER FOR THE NEW YEAR!

Photo courtesy of Rifle Paper Co.

As 2012 comes to an end, let's ring in a New Year toasting every friend. I wish you a fantastic 2013, filled with style, great design and interiors that fulfill your every dream.

Thank you for filling my 2012 with such wonderful opportunities. The ability to share new talent, uncover beautiful design finds, and celebrate the classics gives me great joy. Here's to more discovering and uncovering! To 2013, may exciting new design keep you keen.

ON VACATION

Sending you sunny warm greetings from Palm Beach. On vacation. Back soon.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Wishing you a joyous Christmas and a wonderful day! Merry Merry!

PRESENT TENSE: HOLIDAY GIFT WRAP GETS FESTIVE

One of my favorite aspects of gift giving is wrapping the presents. I love to make a pretty package. I am pretty sure I got this from my amazing Mom, who has great tips and tricks to wrap the ribbon so there is no bump on the underside where the ribbons cross, and so each folded corner is even. 

Too add to the gift, I like to stick a fresh sprig of holly, shiny red berries or some bells in with the bow and tag. It just makes the presentation more interesting, and memorable. Here are some favorite patterned papers and tags I have come across this season, both traditional and fun. Enjoy the last few days of frenetic shopping for last-minute gifts and wrap em up with your own individual flair.

Photo courtesy of Sugar Paper

State the obvious with vivid red script dons letterpress tags from LA-based Sugar Paper.

Photo courtesy of Mara Mi

Say thank you with sweet little gift labels from Mara Mi featuring winter themes.

Photo courtesy of CB2

Put your own stamp on it with Yellow Owl Workshop's Label Stamp Kit from CB2. It doesn't read holiday so you can use it beyond Christmas.

Photo courtesy of Lobird

This one is to give to all your friends that gallivant all over the global. From Lobird. Each of this company's designs are cuter than the next.

 Photo courtesy of Anthropologie

Against a pale green sky, reindeer and pine trees in a winter scene on hang tags from Anthropologie.

 Photo courtesy of Connor

When only the best will do, Connor New York has hang tags with red grosgrain ribbon and hand-engraved motifs.

 Photo courtesy of Target

A cheery Santa and scallop-edge Do Not Open set of tags from Target are just adorable.

Photo courtesy of Target

Wow, these colorful cuties are from Target- love. Zesty colors and modern motifs for the un-holiday color scheme.

Photo courtesy of Mr. Boddington

Mr. Boddington always gets it right, they make some of the best preppy meets quirky papers. Rudolf heads in a playful hand-drawn repeat float across the surface of It's Raining Reindeer paper.

 Photo courtesy of Container Store

My favorite wrap is from the Container Store, with geometric Santa's all in a row.

Photo courtesy of Paper Source

The animals go marching on in Holiday Animals Wrapping Paper available through Paper Source. Too cute for the little one's.

Photo courtesy of Paper Source

White berries with silver leaves against a red ground make this red Paper Source paper an elegant option.

Photo courtesy of Kate's Paperie

Modern and graphic, the wrapping paper of master printmaker Charles Lahti from Kate's Paperie pairs kraft paper brown and poppy red.

Photo courtesy of Container Store

In a multitude of hues, Christmas trees line the surface area of kraft paper from the Container Store.

 Photo courtesy of Container Store

For all of you with dogs, the Container Store has recycled paper with Chilly Dogs as reindeer waiting in line to step up to the hydrant.

CAROLYNE ROEHM'S NEWEST TOME IS A BOTANICAL BOUNTY

Photos courtesy of Potter

With the launch of Carolyne Roehm's latest book with Clarkson Potter called Flowers, readers are in for a real hortucultural treat. Fourteen years after her first book, A Passion for Flowers, she is back to share more "floribundance", with a deeper look at her gardens through the seasons and what they yield at her hand. The over sized (gigantic in a fabulous way)  book is packed with lush imagery (over three hundred photos, most photographed by Roehm with the results of her Connecticut garden) captures flowers by bloom type showcasing them in a variety of exquisite arrangements.  Covering the botanical spectrum, the assortment of vibrant abundance covers daffodils, tulips, lilacs, lilly of the valley, peonies, irises, roses, clematis and dahlias, with a chapter dedicated to each. A lot of hard work and dedication goes into gardening and arranging, and it shows becoming a green thumb can yield some pretty spectacular results.

Taking a moment's pause from a flurry of book signings, I was able to get her thoughts on working with flowers and what is next for her.  Here is what Roehm shared with me:

What is the best go-to arrangement when you are having guests for dinner impromptu and they are coming over that evening?
My instant go to if I have unexpected guests is to place a small fern surrounded by four silver candlesticks, or a bowl of apples or lemons which I usually have in the house for this reason. Last resort if nothing is in the house is to place a pretty tureen in the middle of the table. A good reason to have one in your collections that works with your china.

What was the biggest challenge, which arrangement took tons of practice tries to get just right?
 I have been doing this for so many years that I do it instinctively ---I think the biggest challenge for those starting out is underestimating the number of flowers and filler they need. Also getting over their fear so many say I am afraid to start---but you must ---and make mistakes. A great way to learn is to get post cards from any art museum showing how painters put flowers together, the Dutch flower painters are wonderfully inspirational.

Tell those that don't know about the legendary floral artist you apprenticed with in Paris. Paint the picture of what that experience in France was like. Any secret tips to floral handling or treatment to share? 
Working for Henri Moulie was a great experience I had already done so much work with flowers but the single biggest thing I learned at the time was the use of "filler" material. You have to remember at that time in the mid 90's we had just a handful of really good florists, such as Ronaldo Maia, and Renny even in a city like NYC. At that time the average florists used leather fern, wax flower and status as fill to make bouquets look larger . In Paris they used everything, lemon leaves, camellia leaves, branches of raspberries and blackberries and blueberries things that we did not use at the time. They created beautiful still-lives. When Christian Tortu came to NYC at Takashimaya then we started to get the great change and influence of the French here in NYC.

What is your favorite cheap and cheerful resource for great vases or decorative elements? 
I like going to Pearl River for affordable vases.

What is your favorite arrangement in the book for color, scale, impact or ease?
My favorite arrangement is on page 205 because it represents a mix of things that I mentioned above: raspberries, viburnum berries, unripened baby apples all working together with garden roses to create a bouquet and a still life.

You have covered it all, just about. What is next for you in design?
Next in design well.... my big project is my restoring a Greek Revival house in Charleston and creating a "southern flower garden". After that I have a couple of more books I want to do.

A study in tulip variety featuring Roehm's favorites, red and whites.

Years of collecting china and vases yield a pretty astounding collection of tabletop patterns.  Lilacs and tulips in a full spectrum of purple hues sit in a beautiful glass goblet as a centerpiece.

In a garden setting, the table is set in monochromatic white featuring stark white porcelain and delicate lilly of the valley.

My favorite! An abundant arrangement of pink peonies in a green glass vase read early summer.

What is more gorgeous than a just clipped arrangement of fresh June blooms? Here, she has paired peonies, rhododendron, geraniums, yellow baptista, nepeta and salvia in a free flowing robust and nature-driven arrangement.

Roses in pale peach and yellow are paired with charming pansies, raspberries and miniature apples in a dynamic mix.

The power of a single color is shown with the palest of pink roses. Ahh, beauties.

TRULY GIFTED: 15 GIFTS FOR THE GAL OR GUY ON THE GO

We all have those friends that never stay on the ground for too long. For those with serious wanderlust that can't seem to stay put, lavish them with travel appropriate accessories.  Satisfy their travel bug with the necessities that make their journey one to remember.  Adventure seekers and design divas alike will forge ahead in style this season.

 Photo courtesy of Mrs. Strong

 Getting a little tongue in cheek, the Don't Fuggedaboutit tablet notepad from Mrs. Strong will help the recipient  remember to tackle everything on their to do list before they step on the plane or train.

http://www.katieridder.com/

Everyone loves a crisp new tote to use while running errands. For the print and pattern fan, Katie Ridder's signature fabric and wallpaper prints now come on a cute tote bag. Order by emailing: info@katieridder.com

 Photo courtesy of T. Anthony

I need a new rolly bag in the worst way. The new carry-on Wheeled Duffle from T. Anthony fits in the overhead bin and is a nice addition to give to someone that has their luggage already. Mom, are you reading this?

Photo courtesy of Land's End

For the pal who is always en route to a picnic or party, the Lands End Wine Tote is just the thing.

Photo courtesy of Sister Parish

These little zippered pouches help keep the contents of a bag neat and tidy. Sister Parish printed fabric Cosmetic Bags come in a set of 3, and can keep your charger cords and passport separate and easy to access.

 Photo courtesy of Anya Hindmarch

A tiny bag that can serve double duty as a clutch and hold your camera, Anya Hindmarch's Courtney Moire Clutch will make interior designer friends happy with it's big ol' custom leather hanging tassel. 

Photo courtesy of Turkish T

Super lightweight and easy to pack, a robe is a travel must. Turkish-T's beautiful soft cotton Spa robes have a fringed hem and sleeve with spirited candy colored stripes. They can multi-task from breakfast to the beach.

Photo courtesy of Shop Bop

Mary Green's Sleeping Mask from Shop Bop will make for rested travelers.  Rested travelers are happy travelers.

Photo courtesy of Julia B.

It might surprise you how many people love to have the comforts of home while away. Long-haul flights and hotel rooms are just better with the addition of a pretty boudoir pillow.  Bring the comfort of your own bed with Julia B. baby pillows, she has a variety of  beautiful customized options.

 

 Photo courtesy of Saks

Ward off a chill with Queen of Cashmere's monogrammed travel throw with matching case. You never know when a bit of cashmere may come in handy.

Photo courtesy of Barneys

For those that never leave home without a signature scent, Frederic Malle's highly addictive Carnal Flower perfume comes in a portable spray (case not included).

Photo courtesy of mypressi

On the go and need a pick-me-up? Take the tiny well-designed My Pressi on Safari and always have your caffeine fix close at hand.

Get a game going anywhere. Play to win with Tory Burch's sleek Printed Portable Backgammon set.  Such a luxe version.

Photo courtesy of Momastore

Crisp sound, an FM Radio and alarm clock make Geneva's  bright red XS Sound System from Moma Store worth packing to travel.

Photo courtesy of Clare Vivier

A classic vide poche for a fraction of the Hermes prix, Clare Vivier's zesty red version is perfect and portable for keeping jewelry and other lotions and potions on the nightstand.

TAKING A SICK DAY

Trying to get better before Christmas.

Back soon...

TRULY GIFTED: A GUIDE FOR THE HOSTESS

For the hostess with the mostess, the mantra is always be prepared for the unexpected. Friends bring friends, things spill, people get hungry for snacks, and the like. Here are some gifties for those that like to have intimate gatherings, or the masses over for merriment. Tis' the season to party with a reason.

Photo courtesy of Jonathan Adler

If it is marbleized, I like it. These incredibly bright Trousdale tidbit plates from Jonathan Adler are great for hors d'oeuvres time. Every year they come out with even better patterns.

Photo courtesy of Tiffany

You will be so over toothpicks once you upgrade to tiny silver cocktail forks. They just make everything look delicious, even if Glorious Food was not on hand. The inimitable Elsa Peretti-designed Padova forks from Tiffany come in a set of six.

Photo courtesy of Waterford

The coup is the way to go for champers. Waterford's brilliant new Mixology cut crystal set of 4 glasses come in the most tantalizing colors wtih names to match-  talon red, neon lime green, circon purple and argon blue. Amazing.

 Photo courtesy of Anthropologie

Clear glassware is another soignee option. Antropologie's Frosted Panes Coupe has subtle sophistication.

Photo courtesy of DwellStudio

Highball and lowball glasses with the golden touch from DwellStudio have glamour and style for an added glow.

 Photo courtesy of Bloomingdales

A good pitcher is a mainstay of every bar. Cobalt blue captivates in Diane Von Furstenberg's Twirl Pitcher that resembles Venetian glassware for a far steeper cost.

Photo courtesy of Target

Get things shaking with the Altuzarra collab Neiman Marcus did for Target. This vintage-inspired cocktail shaker rocks.

Photo courtesy of Asprey

If you need a little refresher course on what makes a perfect Martini, Manhattan, or Old Fashioned, Asprey has created the Tell Me How Cocktail Shaker with the recipes included for a subtle reminder.

 Photo courtesy of Mecox Gardens

Keep ice cool in a sleekly tapered lacquer ice bucket with loads of style. Mecox Gardens carries them in 4 cool colors.

Photo courtesy of Global Views

The combination of teal leather and nickel on Global Views ice bucket adds a pop of color and texture.

Photo courtesy of C. Wonder

Create a makeshift bar on a tray, or serving stations. This C. Wonder red lacquer version has a jaunty white trim.

Photo courtesy of Serena and Lily

Pedestal trays, such as this glossy teal one from Serena and Lily  provide additional surface area for hors d'oeuvres.

Photo courtesy of New York Mouth

Want to ensure you get the invite for impromptu gatherings? Send a Cocktail Hour Every Month subscription from New York Mouth complete with NY-made delicacies. Then you can enjoy the spoils.

Photo courtesy of Havens Kitchen

Havens Kitchen is one of the coolest places around, where you can shop, take cooking classes, get your daily coffee and have private dinner parties. They have just launched their e-commerce site, so you can send their gourmet goodies far and wide.

 Photo courtesy of Mark and Graham

Gotta have one of these on hand at all times- Mark and Graham's Anchor Bottle Opener is shore thing for the sailor and all-around water-loving friend.

Photo courtesy of West Elm

Pay homage to the great outdoors with delicate lookingTwig Bar tools from West Elm.

Photo courtesy of Gracious Style

If you know a dog lover, and who isn't, Kim Seybert's Best in Show Cocktail Napkins from Gracious Style are sure to amuse. They show six breeds. The bulldog is very true to life.

Photo courtesy of Anthropologie

Funny drinking quotes on August Morgan's cocktail napkins make party guests instantly at ease providing great conversation starters. Available through Anthropologie.

 Photo courtesy of Della Terasi

Every party girl needs a great clutch. The recently launched bespoke label Della Terasi creates stunning custom clutches and clothing from the finest interior fabrics, like Fortuny and boldly colored ikats. Their Envelope Clutch is lined in metallic leather providing a stealth luxe detail.  Select the fabric and shape on their website, that includes their super chic resort wear fashion line.

 Photo courtesy of Asha by ADM

I can't resist showing a little bling this time of year. Give some sparkly baubles like these Elizabeth pave stunners from Asha or give in to the temptation to wear them yourself.