You know those last frenzied moments of cooking Thanksgiving dinner, when all of the dishes get done at the same time? And you try to get everything on the table so it doesn't get cold? All the while yelling to everyone who's watching TV that dinner's ready, and could people come to the table please? That's the precise moment that, every year, I realize I don't own enough trivets. More

My parents are divorced (shocking in this day and age, I know) and every holiday, I have to navigate the tricky issue of how and where to spend it. Before my dad got remarried, it was a piece of cake. My folks get along just fine, so it was easy to get together and be a family unit again for those few days. More

No matter how many years I live in California, I'll always be a Chicago girl who likes her Thanksgivings colorful and her Christmases snowy. San Francisco doesn't offer a lot in the way of magnificent foliage or winter wonderlands, but perhaps a gorgeous seasonal photo projected on the wall might fool me into thinking I'm home again… at least for the duration of a party, while the wine is flowing. More

In the summer, using fresh fruit to create pretty centerpieces is common. As the temperatures drop, however, it's easy to forget that seasonal fruit still makes for fantastic arrangements. From apples to kumquats, winter fruit can be used for anything from rustic, farmtable-inspired looks to dramatic bouquets. More

As winter descends upon us, is there anything more reassuring than the sight of bright winter berries? They provide color to the landscape, food to birds, and a warm welcome to your guests... More

In today's world, full of emails and websites, it feels SO good to get an actual honest-to-goodness real piece of mail. When that hand-addressed envelope contains an invitation, and the promise of a night filled with fun and friends, nothing could be better.

More

Birch branches are plentiful at many garden centers and floral departments this time of year, and their sparse beauty can be used a number of ways, from elegant centerpieces to chic alternatives to traditional evergreen trees. More

With a slew of holiday soirées fast approaching, it can be helpful to have a few go-to hostess gifts on hand for last minute invitations and casual get-togethers. With this guide to options under $10, you can afford to stock up so that you never find yourself empty handed. More

You see, this is exactly why I need a small child as part of my household staff. From the moment I saw this magnificent turkey, I have been dying to have one on my Thanksgiving table… and I'm not even hosting Thanksgiving! But I will if I can somehow acquire such a fine bird. I actually put in a request with my favorite LEGO wunderkind for a living, cross-sectioned turducken. Stay tuned for updates... More

I had the opportunity to make arrangements for a lovely event last week, and the whole experience was completely dreamy, like being wrapped in the holidays. The warm, sweet scent of bay, the bright shiny redness of rosehips, the spice in the air from the chiles… is it time to feast yet? More