United States

When you don’t want a political party.

by

Tough political fights are expected this election season. How do you keep them out of the dining room come Thanksgiving? Here are some tips to keep your holiday a non-political party.

  • History repeats itself: Who’s given campaign speeches during appetizers before? Speak frankly about their behavior making family members uncomfortable.  When asked politely, most people’s bad behavior can be cut off at the pass.

    Change the subject - talk abut the floral centerpiece!
    Change the subject – talk abut the floral centerpiece!
  • Set ground rules: We think that everyone knows not to discuss politics and religion at big gatherings. Not so. Take a cue from boxing refs and make an announcement: “I want a good clean dinner! Any partisanship gets you bumped to the kids table!”
  • Shut it down: If someone does spout off, don’t just roll your eyes and go with the flow. Be firm but polite, and change the subject. This is your house.

With these tips, your holiday table can be a politics free zone! Time with family can be stressful, but remember, we also need to be grateful for these folks who drive us crazy- because we also happen to love them very much. Enjoy your family!

Be well and love well.

-Dinah

Oscar De La Renta’s wedding advice.

by

This past weekend the world lost iconic fashion designer Oscar De La Renta. The accolades and remembrances continue to roll in from fashion journalists and celebrities, and all share a common view of what made him a genius. His talent was in making sure the woman was the focus, not the dress.THE HEART TRUTH FASHION SHOW 02/11/10

How does that apply to weddings? Well simply put, as you plan make sure you’re the stars of the show: you and that wonderful person you’re marrying.  Your ideas for details and décor are wonderful, but make sure that the look you and your florist create doesn’t overwhelm the most special, unique feature of the event – that’s your love and happiness!  Like De La Renta’s beautiful gowns, the design should beautifully flatter, but not overtake you.  After all, you’re what everyone’s come to see.  Not the ice sculpture.

Live well and love well.

 

-Dinah

Related articles

Wedding Extras – Have we gone too far?

by

A tweet caught my eye today – admiring someone’s “Day After Wedding Shoot.”  Is this a thing? Disturbing, if you ask me.  The wedding industry puts a lot of pressure on couples.  The “musts” have expanded through the years. We’ve hit a point where what’s expected has ballooned- and at a time when people’s ability to finance these more and more extravagant add-ons is more and more tenuous. This last one just put me over the edge a little. What do you think?

Related articles