Sensational Entertaining

I never stop dreaming about throwing the perfect party. My favorite part of entertaining is planning the tablesetting. I don't think that my efforts could compete, however, with those of Los Angeles based decorator Mary McDonald.

In the December 05 issue of Town & Country, there was a spectacular spread of McDonald's festive Christmas party. Her tablesettings are absolutely stunning. The combination of the silver platters and trays, the dark wood table, and the touches of green (in the apples and the candles) creates a traditional and sophisticated setting. In my mind, there is no such thing as too much silver!

I especially like the dessert table. Once again, beautiful silver and porcelain decorate the table, which only enhances the yummy berry tarts and the croquembouche. I just wonder how McDonald will be able to top this at her next party!

Miles Redd Chic

I know that there has been much written about Miles Redd's NYC townhouse over the past few years. I, for one, can't get enough of it. I love Miles' work, and he truly is one of my favorite decorators of today (in addition to Albert Hadley, of course). Not only does he possess an inordinate amount of style, he is, like me, an Atlanta native!

I love the brown and white striped living room above, especially the decadent blue curtains. And the pink study, below, is tres chic. I would love to have a banquette like that in my living room. To me,the whole house screams Manhattan glamour, reminiscent of an old Astaire-Rogers movie.

And if you're interested in the mother-of-pearl cocktail tables in his pink room, I am assuming they are from Oscar de la Renta's Home Collection, of which Miles is Creative Director.