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The noble art of needlepoint!
This needlepoint eyeglass case once belonged to Mummy, so I had it inset using a pretty Scalamandrestriped silk fabric to frame it as a petite pillow, and it continues to be a sweet memory for me....
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Afternoon Tea: Are you MIF or TIF!?
Afternoon tea was served to me in Cliveden House’s library, commencing with a glass of champagne… the absolute PERFECT welcome to this grand house steeped in history. Having just returned from Merry...
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The Perfect Companion to Protect Your Wardrobe!
With my new Holly Holden Collection of clothing, I was inspired to protect each piece and reached out to Barbara Harman, the founder of The Butler’s Closet. She is THE renowned expert on how to...
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Slipcover Secrets!
The Brunschwig & Fils floral chintz in the classic Campanula pattern on a period chair in the living room at Fox Hall. I introduced a solid blue chintz as a ¼” contrast welt and a 1 1/2” flat welt...
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Flower Power: Unlocking the Mysterious Language of Flowers!
Pink peonies from “Stuart’s garden” at Fox Hall, intertwined with mountain laurel, was a centerpiece that I arranged for a dinner party. Did you know that the mountain laurel, the state flower of...
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The Launer: A discrete fashion accessory fit for a Queen!
Ladies use three distinctive terms to reference just ONE essential fashion accessory, one that they carry each day! Can you guess what it is? Of course, depending on where one lives in the world,...
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Mirror, Mirror on the Wall: Holly's Secret Design Idea!
In the living room at Fox Hall, the mid-eighteenth-century English bull’s eye mirror is hung over the mantelpiece. The “hippocam” that crowns the mirror is a subtle reference to my passion for...
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Holly's Secret Easy First Course Asparagus Roll-ups
One of my secret recipes for a first course is my asparagus roll-ups! Not only are they quick and easy to prepare, but they look pretty on any porcelain design, can be made several hours ahead, and...
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What secret elements contribute to an inviting interior? Lessons from the...
Upon entering a house for the first time, what elements do you immediately sense that contribute to a positively enchanting atmosphere? You know, a house that feels inviting, and one you don't want to...
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Enhancing art with porcelain!
The blue tonality of the pair of Chinese ginger jars corresponds to a similar color in the painting by American artist Margot Stewart, while the two tall pairs of vases harmonize with the colors in...
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The Secret to Perfect Invitations: Where to place the R.s.v.p.
Two appropriate forms of requesting an acknowledgment are displayed on these invitations, both of which bring fond memories of joyous celebrations to mind! When composing an invitation, which side do...
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Lovely Lobster Bisque: Elegant and Easy!
Cooking seafood in our apartment is a bit of a challenge compared to cooking seafood in our house, as the fishy aroma can linger for days. Even though the sliding doors are opened, and scented candles...
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Reciprocation: A Forgotten Art of Hospitality?
Serving guests in the summer on our veranda at Fox Hall, for dinner parties of six to ten, is an enchanting experience as a hostess… everything tastes better somehow, no matter what I serve! (Dress...
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The Art of Reciprocation: Inspiring Responses!
Serving pink champagne is a festive way to commence a ladies' luncheon, but an elegant and easy alternative, which is not expensive, is cranberry juice and soda water. Last week I touched on...
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Avert Dinner Party Dilemmas: Ask your guests this question!
My carrot soup with fresh ginger makes an easy first course to serve and is a perfect option for any vegetarian guest. Many years ago, in my entertaining roster of memories, I learned a valuable...
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Holly's Secrets to a Memorable Dinner Party!
Mummy always said, Everything tastes better in candlelight!” And, I do believe it does! Some hosts have a natural affinity for hosting memorable dinner parties effortlessly. Within moments of...
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Is Holly Holden a "dress" designer or an "interior" designer?
This was taken as we were filming an episode of my PBS series in the Drawing Room at Highclere Castle, aka Downton Abby. As a designer, I was enamored with the silk damask wall upholstery, matching...
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Have you named your house?!
With my affinity for foxes, an English painting of a running fox is prominently placed above the second landing in our front hall. One of Fox Hall’s notable architectural triumphs are the two...
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A secret magic wand for "Brown Furniture!"
Here is the “after” photo of a bed that had “the secret magic wand” treatment! Have you heard talk about how younger generations no longer want “brown furniture?” Yet, on the other hand, they want...
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The secret to properly popping a champagne bottle cork!
Pink champagne is traditionally served at Fox Hall for just about any occasion! When champagne is served, it instantly becomes a celebration! Our daughter, Alexandra, and her husband, Maximilian,...
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