I just spent two days camping with my dad and Ivan in the Sierras, and now we’ve arrived in Reno for a visit with my extended family. One thing we Sages take very seriously is the pre-dinner cocktail hour (formally referred to as “Drinkie-Bye Time”), so when we get together I always take advantage of the […]
The older I get, the more I miss my mom when we’re apart. The time we spend in each other’s company is so precious to me. In recent years, we’ve had to make due with a get-together every six months or so. But this summer, she’s been flying to LA once every few weeks for […]
I’ve got another entertaining inspiration video for you guys! Last week I shared the first in a series that I filmed last spring, sharing my process for honing in on a theme for your gathering. Now, once you’ve got your idea and you’re ready to bring it to life, I’m sharing my tips on how […]
This is going to sound absolutely crazy, but this is one of the hardest blog posts I’ve ever written. Back in March, I spent a full day filming a series of entertaining inspiration videos. We shot segments on everything from how I come up with a comprehensive concept for a party, to how I implement […]
For three years in a row, I’ve visited Italy. And for three years in a row, I’ve returned to the States full of a renewed energy for playing hostess. You see, the Italians just get it when it comes to entertaining. Unlike many Americans I know (myself included!), Italians place zero stress on their get-togethers. There’s […]
Spend even a week here on the blog and you’ll learn pretty quickly that I find my inspiration absolutely anywhere and everywhere! Even the most unexpected source can spark ideas for any project, from decor makeovers to entertaining spreads and beyond. And frankly, the more unexpected the source, the better—because the finished product is always […]
I’ve been thinking about moms a lot lately. I guess I’m at that age. I’m watching many of my peers enter the mothering phase of their lives; I’ve been watching my own mother explore a new phase of discovery and identity in her life; and I’ve been watching my path creep every more closely towards the entrance of […]
It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Sheldon Ceramics. The LA-based artisan ceramics company makes an appearance in almost every entertaining story that I style! The subtle sophistication of their creations combines the earthy rawness inherent to handmade pieces with clean shapes, modern glazes, and an overall refined vibe that elevates any setting. And […]
Fresh off my trip to North Carolina, I’ve been reminded once again that folks do things a bit differently in the south than here in go-go Los Angeles. The days move a little more slowly; the cocktails and the laughter flow a little more freely; and maybe it was just me, but the sun seems to […]
When did fancy toast become a thing? One day in the distant future I’m sure a learned historian will write a lengthy dissertation on the rise of fancy toast mania. An entire chapter will be devoted to the phenomenon’s visual appeal, to the allure of a dish that puts each ingredient on full display for our […]