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Quintessence

Quintessence

Lifestyle blog | Living Well with Style and Substance

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    • Books that I have collaborated on, as photographer, with design author Susanna Salk
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Travel

Dedar ABout Flowers
Interior design, Travel

The Sophisticated Chic of Dedar at Deco Off

In an old house in Paris, not covered with vines, I fell in love with the new Dedar fabric collection…. Read More

Christopher Maya prints
Design, Interior design, Travel

Holland & Sherry Hosts New Collections at Deco Off

One of the most appealing aspects of Paris Deco Off is the conviviality of seeing the collections in the showrooms…. Read More

Video thumbnail for vimeo video 58854236
Design, Interior design, Travel

BEHIND THE Q | Introducing Lalique Maison

One of the most striking booths at Maison et Objet was that of Lalique with their introduction of a full… Read More

van cleef paris
Architecture, Design, Travel

Out and About in Paris

While out and about in Paris between the shows, it’s a miracle I wasn’t hit by a pedestrian-loathing Belmondo look-alike,… Read More

Pierre Frey 1920 print
Design, Interior design, Travel

Pierre Frey Paris | Part 2

Continuing our look at the beautiful new Pierre Frey Paris collections, I thought you might enjoy seeing a bit more… Read More

Video thumbnail for youtube video 5xtm1pwzcys
Design, Interior design, Travel

BEHIND THE Q | Pierre Frey at Paris Deco Off

In this era of corporate consolidation and luxury conglomerates, Pierre Frey is a breath of fresh air. While I have… Read More

Champagne toast
Interior design, Travel

Thank you Currey and Company

Taking a break from Paris, I’d like to revisit Atlanta briefly to thank Currey & Company, who hosted me for… Read More

fornasetti Teatro in linen and aqua
Art & Antiques, Design, Interior design, Travel

Cole and Son Fornasetti II at Maison et Objet

Cole and Son has long been one of my favorite wallpaper lines so I was delighted to see their booth… Read More

Gaston y Daniela Jaen
Design, Interior design, Travel

A Taste of Paris Deco Off

In this fourth edition of Paris Deco Off, over 70 houses have participated in presenting their latest collections throughout the… Read More

Screen Shot 2013-01-03 at 6.26.33 PM
Design, Gifts, Interior design, Travel

Meet Me at AmericasMart

I am thrilled to share that next week I will be speaking at the AmericasMart Gift and Home Furnishings Market… Read More

Museum of bags and purses cafe
Architecture, Fashion, Travel

The Museum of Bags and Purses

Yes, you read that right. I am happy to report that there is actually a Museum of Bags and Purses…. Read More

Balbaniello-16
Architecture, Garden, Interior design, Travel

Lake Como Charm | Villa del Balbianello

Lake Como is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful spots I know, having visited on several occasions, including my honeymoon…. Read More

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One of my favorite things about setting a table is One of my favorite things about setting a table is that it never has to begin from scratch.

The most beautiful tables are collected over time—mixing old favorites with new discoveries, heirlooms with contemporary pieces, and the things you’ve loved for years with something that brings fresh perspective.

For this table, I’ve paired PeterDunham + Hudson Grace’s (@peterdunhamdesign @hudsongracesf ) beautiful salad and bread plates and napkins with Blue Carnation dinner plates, table linens, glassware, and flatware from my shop, alongside a few favorite pieces from my personal collection.

I hope this table is a reminder that you don’t need everything to match—or come from one place. The magic is in the mix. Every new piece should make you fall in love with the pieces you already own all over again.

That’s the joy of collecting—and the beauty of a table that reflects your own story.

Shop the table through link in profile
Very excited to be returning to @eleishvanbreems o Very excited to be returning to @eleishvanbreems on Nantucket for a 2 day trunk show next Thursday and Friday! If on island, do stop by! There will be many new introductions you will be the first to see!!
Some homes are beautiful. Others tell a story. Th Some homes are beautiful. Others tell a story. 
The Yucatán home of interior designer @laurakirar and architect Richard Frazier @rwf333 is both -  a masterful reflection of its surroundings, where architecture, landscape, light, and craftsmanship come together in perfect harmony.
Tag along for a visit to this extraordinary retreat and discover how years of collecting, collaboration, and creative vision shaped a house that feels deeply connected to its place. LINK IN PROFILE
Wishing everyone a very happy Mother’s Day! 🌸 Flow Wishing everyone a very happy Mother’s Day! 🌸 Flowers from my thoughtful husband - all else from my shop (plates coming soon - DM to be notified).
Great day at this year’s @thetickingtent with a fa Great day at this year’s @thetickingtent with a fabulous selection of new and repeat vendors in a spacious new tent ! A few of my faves - some of which didn’t make it in only because I couldn’t get good shots with the crowds! Wonderful to see so many design friends and congrats to @christinajuarezandco and @aspoonfulofbenjamin on an even bigger and better event at the beautiful @springhillvineyards !
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