SETTING THE PERFECT TABLE...

One of the biggest dilemmas facing any Martha Stewart wanna-be is how to present her table for the holidays.  Well, that might be overstating it but a good impression is definitely a desired outcome.

No matter whether you're hosting a formal dinner or a casual family meal, how you set your table is important.  When setting the table for a formal dinner, make sure to follow the set-up displayed below - especially if you are inviting that one guest who keeps a copy of Emily Post on her nightstand.


Other important things to consider for a successful dinner party:

1.  Decide on a menu and how many guests you will be serving. After you'll be able to establish what dishes and utensils you will need.

2.  If you are inviting a large group, or people who don't know each other, create a seating arrangement. Try to arrange guests logically. For example, you might seat shyer guests near those more adept at conversation.  The host should sit closest to the kitchen.  Traditionally, a single male guest is seated on the hostess's right, a female guest on the host's right.

3. Decide if you want to include a centerpiece. Make sure to check the height so as not to block those sitting across from one another.

Here are some great holiday tables for inspiration. For a formal dinner:

For a casual or buffet-style dinner:

Click here for more holiday table ideas. 

Happy hosting...

Peace and Blessings,

Tammy

THE LOW DOWN: THE TARGET-NEIMAN MARCUS COLLABO...

Remember when the FLOTUS Michelle Obama made headlines by "making a Target run" a few years ago. I was uber-excited because I had something else in common with the "friend in my head" - our love for Tar-shay!!  

So finally, the Target-Neiman Marcus collabo that I mentioned here back in September began this past Saturday, December 1st. Although my weary bones couldn't make the grand launch, my daughter was at the store at  our local Target store at 8:00am. 

The 24 designers featured in this legendary partnership are such luminaries are offering 50 gorgeous gifts from apparel such as blouses, scarves and handbags to housewares such cocktail and serving items to recreational items such as bikes and yoga mats.

Here's what Courtney scored:

Brian Atwood Leather Gloves - $49.99

Tracey Reese Sequined Blouse - $79.99

Some of my favs are:

Altuzarra Set of 4 Glasses - $49.99 & Shaker - $49.99

Alice + Olivia Bike - $499.99

Judith Lieber Compact Mirror - $59.99

Derek Lam Slippers - $49.99

DVF Yoga Mat - $49.99

Tracey Reese Dessert Plates - Set of 4 for $39.99

Rag & Bone Flask - $29.99

Altuzarra Tray - $79.99

Of course, I wonder what Mrs. Obama had her eyes on. I could totally see her rock that beautiful purple Lela Rose number. I think I might get it myself to channel my inner-First Lady.

Lela Rose Dress - $99.99

The items are available through January 5, 2013 which is also the last day for any returns, although I'm sure that won't be necessary...

Peace and Blessings,

Tammy

Photos courtesy of NeimanMarcus.com and Target.com.

NEW DESIGN SERVICES: e-DESIGNER and ROOM REFRESH...

Over the past few months, I've done some informal research looking for ways to improve my ability to service my clients' needs. In response to several inquiries, I am happy to introduce two new services: 

e-DESIGNER and ROOM REFRESH

e-DESIGNER

The e-DESIGNER Service is an efficient and easy way of decorating your space on-line. You can implement the design at your own pace, eliminating the need for time consuming in-house meetings and the costly process of product research and sourcing. You will receive a design package complete with an inspirational mood board and a shopping plan along with fabric and paint swatches.  We will include any helpful DIY tips and budget friendly ideas to complete your design.

ROOM REFRESH

We can help breathe new life in your room with ROOM REFRESH. This service includes a home visit and consultation where we will analyze the space and its needs. Using what you already have, we will transform the room using space planning, styling tips and lots of creativity (and maybe a little DIY). Afterwards, you can have what will feel like a whole new room.

Check out my website for details on how to get started, just in time for the holidays. Here's my way of helping everyone get the beautiful space they deserve...

Peace and Blessings,

Tammy

ELECTION DAY 2012: VOTE...

It's no secret that as a registered Democrat, I am voting to re-elect President Barack Obama. However, the more critical message is to get out and VOTE no matter what party or candidate you support. It's our duty as American citizens to exercise our right to vote.

I had the privilege of taking my sons, who turned 18 on Saturday, to vote for the first time. Their enthusiasm for the experience was contagious. Everyone I told that this was their first time congratulated them. I felt a wonderful sense of pride for them as well as for the process of democracy.













God Bless America...

Peace and Blessings,
Tammy

THE JERSEY SHORE: SANDY CAN'T TAKE AWAY THE MEMORIES...

As a lifelong New Jersey resident, given the events of the past week, I felt obligated to dedicate this post to my love of the Jersey Shore. 

If you are from the Northern part of the Garden state, going 'down the shore' is a summertime staple. Enjoying the sun and fun at the beaches and boardwalks are some of the best parts of the summer season.

Me and my daughter Courtney at Point Pleasant Beach - Summer 2008

Courtney, Jason & Stephen at Point Pleasant Beach - Summer 2008

Our favorite is Point Pleasant Beach, mostly because of its close proximity to our home and easy access along the Garden State Parkway. 

The Boardwalk at Point Pleasant Beach

The Boardwalk and Beach at Point Pleasant Beach

Jenkinson's Pavilion at Point Pleasant Beach

Here's are some of the other great Jersey Shore destinations...

The Beach at Seaside Heights

Oasis Cafe at Wildwood Beach

The Boardwalk at Asbury Park

The Boardwalk at Atlantic City

 Aerial View of Morey's Pier at Wildwood

Amusement Park Rides

That is before Hurricane Sandy ravished the Jersey Shore and here is the after... 

Seaside Heights

Aerial View of Seaside Heights

Homes along the Jersey Shore after Sandy

We are determined to bring the life and fun back to the Jersey Shore.  To help those affected by Sandy, visit the American Red Cross website by clicking here.

We will rebuild...

Peace and Blessings,

Tammy

Photos courtesy of Google.com

HURRICANE SANDY...

This has been one hell of a week! As a lifelong resident of the East Coast, my heart aches for the devastation left behind by Hurricane Sandy especially for my home state of New Jersey. The once colorful and vibrant Jersey Shore is all but gone.

I am Jersey Proud and we are Jersey Strong. We will rebuild...

Peace and Blessings,

Tammy

HIGH POINT FALL 2012 - BEST OF THE STYLE SPOTTERS...

For those who don't know, High Point, NC is the furniture capital of the world. Twice a year in April and October, the normal population of approximately 100,000 swells about another 100k when designers, vendors and retailers head to High Point Market to display and to discover the latest trends in design.

High Point Market’s Style Spotters are home fashion trendsetters that showcase their favorite products and top trends at the Market.  The Style Spotters post and curate their favorite looks on Pinterest. See what I consider the best from what they discovered during Market, Oct. 13-18...

Caracole

CR laine

Pearson Company

Hickory Chair

Bernhardt Interiors

Chest from Century Furniture



Global Views



Rug from Surya

Pearson Company



Global Views

Bar Cabinet from Caracole

Vanguard Furniture

Bernhardt Interiors

Wesley Hall Furniture

Mr. Brown by Julian Chicester

Sectional Banquette from Design Legacy

Drapery Pendant from Selamat

 

Wesley Hall Furniture

I think the Style Spotters made some wise choices. Until the Spring Market...

Peace and Blessings,

Tammy

Photos courtesy of Pinterest.com