14 Decorating Tips From a Darlin’ Dining Room

The other night I was lucky to be invited to my friend Valerie Smith’s for dinner in East Hampton. Valerie is a designer and the beauty and brains behind East Hampton’s beloved  Monogram Shop, the go-to place for hostess gifts and great things for the house. Just visiting the shop is an inspiration, so imagine what it’s… Continue reading 14 Decorating Tips From a Darlin’ Dining Room


The English Cottage Charms of Podge Bune

I have been just about to bust to post my darlin’ English friend-designer-artist Podge Bune’s house in East Hampton. It is in the June issue of House Beautiful, and it’s one of my favorite houses ever. It should be noted that somewhere in there is the color of Podge’s riotous red hair, which explains a… Continue reading The English Cottage Charms of Podge Bune


East Hampton Memorial Day Highlights

If you’re in a small town and they have a parade, you must always go because you are guaranteed to feel good. Parades exist for the sole purpose of show, smiling and cheering. Memorial Day parades in particular honor our military and all who serve country and community. In East Hampton and small towns everywhere… Continue reading East Hampton Memorial Day Highlights



Quick Update: Bee Cottage in House Beautiful and Hurricane Irene

Can it really be Labor Day? Here’s a quick update on the Bee Cottage series in House Beautiful: If you missed the first back in February, you can catch up: http://www.housebeautiful.com/decorating/home-makeovers/living-room-makeover-pictures-0211. Just now out in the September issue, page 68, is Part 7, “Front of the House.” And I should add “Before Irene!” Happily I… Continue reading Quick Update: Bee Cottage in House Beautiful and Hurricane Irene


Easy Summer Entertaining:When Merely Pretty Is Enough

19 July 2011, East Hampton–One of the joys of giving a dinner party is doing up the table; and one of the drags is not having time to do it. Of course you tell yourself it doesn’t matter because what’s important is getting your friends together, and the gracious setting of your home or garden… Continue reading Easy Summer Entertaining:When Merely Pretty Is Enough


Bee Cottage: Welcome to My Garden

EAST HAMPTON–Summer is finally here, and Bee Garden is as happy about it as I am. Here is a peek, with more to come in the days ahead. I am so grateful to the lovely and talented garden designer Jane Lappin and her crew at Wainscott Gardens who keep it looking so beautiful. Thank you… Continue reading Bee Cottage: Welcome to My Garden