As Easter approaches, I give thanks for the hope of the resurrection and for new life. I give thanks for the people who have blessed us and who are enjoying eternal life in heaven. I also pray for those suffering close by and far away. My gratitude and joy are always a bit tempered in knowing others are hurting. I hope we all can find ways to reflect God’s love and compassion. .single .blog-preview-text{display:none;} Printer Friendly...

March Madness is around the corner ... it's time to plan our parties now! Sally Quinn, journalist and author, and her husband, Ben Bradlee, Editor of the Washington Post, were notable beyond their professional accomplishments. They were famously wonderful party hosts. In her book, The Party, she shares many stories and a few good tips. In my book, Effortless Entertaining, I feature Sally's quote about finding a “hook” in “Step #3 Envision the...

Let me help! Preparing in advance makes it simple and easy. From the guest bedroom and bath to coffee and cocktails, to meal prep and activities, my Hosting Overnight Houseguests covers it all. With my step-by-step approach we will ensure you're ready for overnight guests or extended visits during the holidays with family and friends. I hope you will join me for the 30 Days to Effortless Entertaining workshop beginning tomorrow to...

I bet many of you, just like many of my workshop participants, feel a bit frustrated with not being as organized as you’d like, along with not always having (or being able to easily find) what you need when hosting guests. My workshop participants consistently express frustration that may resonate with you … .single .blog-preview-text { display:none; } Printer-Friendly Newsletter

Entertaining feels easier when you know exactly what you have and where it lives. This simple tablecloth system has made a big difference in our home, and I’m excited to share it with you.This closet does double duty in our home (it also shares space with coats), so having a simple, reliable system makes all the difference. Over the years, I’ve learned that when I know exactly what I have and where it lives, setting the table becomes something...

Ever since we’ve been back from Africa, I’ve been in full restock-the-freezer mode. With both Ed and me working from home these days, lunchtime has become a daily question — What’s for lunch? — and thankfully, the answer is often soup. In the last two days I’ve been cooking up all the cozy things that feel just right for chilly winter days. Turkey and white bean chili, classic chicken soup, a hearty lentil soup… and after all of that,...

Happy New Year! ✨ I hope this note finds you well and stepping into the year with a sense of hope and possibility. After a brief pause for the holidays, I’m so happy to be back ... looking ahead to a season filled with meaningful gatherings, thoughtful conversations, and the joy that comes from opening our homes and hearts. As we begin the year, I wanted to share a few things coming up that I’m especially excited about. EE Events ... Now accepting...

Today inside Santa’s Little Workshop ... or really, Ms. EE’s Little Workshop, I’m sharing a few of my favorite holiday wrapping tips. Today’s Instagram post shows you exactly how I tie a classic Tiffany bow. It’s simple, elegant, and perfect for every gift. These little tricks make wrapping so much easier ... and of course, so much prettier. .single .blog-preview-text{display:none;} Printer-Friendly Newsletter

You can imagine how much Liz’s email meant to me! Many of you have sent similar messages over the years. Recently someone told me she always reaches for Effortless Entertaining when hosting family and friends ... thank you! It means the world to me knowing my book and the workshop make entertaining easier, less stressful, and more enjoyable! In this newsletter, I'm giving you my Christmas GamePlan. We’ve linked each EE recipe to our website. Click...

It’s the last day of My Favorite Things, and I hope you’ve enjoyed this series as much as I’ve enjoyed sharing it with you. Today’s newsletter is a little “This and That”… a mix of the books I love, the little luxuries that brighten my home, personal favorites I turn to again and again, and fun things for everyone. Among other things, I’m sharing a few of my very favorite books...those I reach for throughout the year and often give...