It was all very spontaneous, my weekend plans were cancelled, and at the last minute, Nantucket for the weekend sounded like a great option. I’d been invited by my good friend and uber chef, Todd English, who presides over the cuisine at Summer House in Siasconset, an adorably quaint property with guests cottage covered in flowering roses, and large bushes of blooming hydrangea everywhere. Blessed with amazing weather, my cottage was less than a 2-minute walk passed a rose’ infused pool area and quaint dining deck to a very quiet beach: truly a slice of heaven. The beach was quiet and relaxing. No music, no kids, not dogs, just the sound of the ocean and the seagulls had an ambien like effect on me. After a long swim in the waters I felt and smelled like a raw bar; the ocean is definitely alive, it’s green color intoxicating and it’s salty taste filled the island’s air.

Immediately after checking in, the first thing I did was rent a bicycle and literally ride for miles discovering as much as I could of this quiet and gorgeous island that I’d heard so much about. I visited the island once many years ago and it felt good to be back. Returning back to Summer House ready to partake in Todd’s version of New England classics. (Read More)

I was in Cape Town during the World Cup for the great quarter final game between Argentina and Germany. While I was there I felt immense pride and witnessed such national glory as the spotlight of the world was on South Africa and the country exceeded everyone’s expectations. Many people were skeptical about the efficiency of the new airports and stadiums but we were all not only pleasantly surprised but impressed. The new Johannesburg ORTambo International Airport is truly world class and probably the most state of the art on the continent. The stadiums architecturally are spectacular and well thought out with the most state of the art of everything! Going to a game and being in a stadium with 64,100 people is really exciting and it was a fun and memorable game too. I noticed a tremendous presence of very organized security everywhere and despite all the rumors I felt incredibly safe.

The buzz was amazing. I stayed at the Molori Cape on Clifton Beach and felt like I was on stunning boat on the ocean.

The night before the match, The One and Only Cape Town owned the night. They hosted a party for almost a thousand gorgeous and glamorous people. From there we made our way to Fez Nightclub where the African House music gave me another beat! (Read More)

As the small Caravan twin prop prepared to land at Singita we spotted a large herd of breeding elephants just south of the landing strip.  Less than 10 minutes later after a chilled welcoming towel and ice cold cocktail I found myself in the most sumptuous and sensual suite overlooking the river bed and veld beyond.   Such chic and tasteful furnishings with the most inventive use of authentic materials, on top of that every possible amenity imaginable.  I particularly liked the heated plunge pool and private sun deck with outdoor shower overlooking the magnificent view; it was only moments before I was soaking in the rays and sights of the African bush.  The suite’s mini bar magically always had a bucket of ice as well as a chilled bottle of white wine and tasty snacks ready and waiting. The result, a big dose of African Chic, I felt right at home!!

Our days began early with a game ride in an open Range Rover. The cold morning temperatures were remedied with hot water bottles, thermal ponchos and thick wool blankets. As the sun came up we were peeling away the layers of clothing as the air warmed. Our morning coffee break, set in traditional colonial style on trestle tables took away last vestige of chill before heading back to camp for a day of leisure which could at our option include a walking safari, a mountain bike safari, treatments in the spa, visiting a local village or chilling and tanning in the privacy of your own pool. (Read More)

QUESTION:

I’m planning my cousin’s wedding but I’m stuck with the colors. She wants bronze, beige, and cream. I don’t know what color flowers to use, or should I use flowers as centerpieces? Can you please help me with an idea?

Thank you,

Agatha (South Africa) (Read More)

QUESTION:

I’m new to the wedding/event planning business. I have a question about clients that request personalized things like monogrammed linen napkins. What happens after the event is over. Do you give them all 200 napkins? If not, what do you do with them?

Thanks so much for your help. I truly adore your God-given talents. (Read More)