I’m so excited to share that my work has been featured in the Houston Chronicle!

For those of you who don’t know, after starting a second career as an interior designer here in Houston and working for eight years, I began focusing on teaching in-person classes for women, showing them how to entertain beautifully in their homes.

Then 2020 came along, and while it brought its challenges, it also opened new doors. I’ve been lucky enough to style high-end tableware for some amazing companies, and this table is one of my favorite projects so far!

Click here to read the article.

I call it my Red and Gold Christmas Tablescape, and you can read more about it by clicking that link!

One of the things I love most as a designer is discovering the stories behind beautiful furniture or vintage tableware. That history adds so much depth and character to a design.

For this table, I worked with products from the Williamsburg Brand, produced by Mottahedeh China, which helped bring that rich sense of history to life.

The plates I used aren’t vintage, but their patterns are reproductions inspired by the past. Knowing that the design was based on folk art once owned by one of the Rockefellers made these Christmas plates feel extra special to me.

If you’re like me and love finding inspiration in history, be sure to follow me on Instagram and Facebook at Ivory and Noire.

In this article, I share my top nine tips for entertaining during the holidays. You can find the link to the article below!

Read my full feature in the Houston Chronicle.

Here is a quick summary of what you will find in the post!

9 Tips for Entertaining Over the Holidays

Establish a Color Palette: Start by choosing a color scheme that suits the season. For example, red and gold are perfect for Christmas, while black, white, or blue can work year-round.
Build a Collection: Begin by collecting the basics, like plain white dishes, and gradually add to your collection. Over time, invest in pieces that suit different seasons or special occasions.
Decorative Stemware: Stylish glassware with metallic rims or unique designs is trending. Invest in good-quality stemware to complement your table settings.
Layer Your Table Linens: Use a tablecloth, but also layer it with placemats to define each place setting. For added fun, personalize white napkins with seasonal prints or designs.
Use Fresh Flowers: Fresh floral arrangements add life to the table. Keep the arrangements low to maintain conversation visibility, or scatter smaller arrangements throughout the table.
Mix and Match: Avoid overly coordinated designs. Mixing patterns, textures, and colors with charger plates and dinnerware adds depth and interest to your table.
Add Personalized Extras: Small personalized touches like nameplates, candy bags, or jars filled with treats can make your guests feel special.
Plan Ahead: Know your strengths and limitations when planning. Be clear on what elements you want in your tablescape and ensure everything is ready ahead of time.
Build Relationships with Vendors: Form relationships with local florists, butchers, and wine experts. These connections will help you get exactly what you need for your events and can lead to valuable recommendations.

Bonus: Holiday Cocktail

Regents Punch Recipe

This punch with its delicious mix of citrus juices, French brandy, rum and champagne will be a winner for your holiday celebrations.

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Ingredients

8 Oz Strong Black Tea
Rinds of Two Lemons
2 1/4 Cups White Sugar
3 Lemons
3 Oranges
8 Oz French Brandy
8 Oz Rum
32 Oz Champagne
optional: sliced oranges, lemons, lemon rinds, or nutmeg for garnishes

Instructions

Make the 8oz of strong black tea and steep with the rinds of two lemons for about three minutes and then remove.
Squeeze the juices of the three lemons and three oranges into a separate bowl or cup.
Combine all of the ingredients aside from the champagne and mix well.
Add champagne and mix once more.
Add ice and serve immediately in champagne flutes or short glasses.
Garnish with orange or lemon slices, lemon rinds, or nutmeg.