Fashion, LIFESTYLE, The Issue

Haute Hostess with the Mostest

November-December Issue 2015 By Gisel Habibnejad The holiday season is all about celebrating great times with your loved ones—sharing past memories and creating new ones. While hosting these fantastic gatherings can become stressful, there are plenty of ways to enjoy planning and preparing as much as the party itself. Entertaining and hosting a party can be a lot of work. Food preparations, decorations, and cleaning are only a few concerns a hostess needs to worry about. Haute Hostess lightens the mood by adding a touch of southern hospitality to your home, from its classical chic aprons to home décor. Founder and designer Elizabeth Scokin was inspired by her grandmother to create what began as a holiday apron collection. Some of her fondest memories with her include watching her put together and host fabulous parties. Her motivation peaked when she found her grandmother’s signature holiday apron amongst her family treasures. Each apron is created with a little magic and festive touch designed by Elizabeth—ultimately inviting the southern spirit she is known for. Named and inspired by iconic women, each boasts an individual personality that is sure to spark your inner hostess. However, even more exciting is the flattering shape the aprons give you. The signature style closely resembles that of a cocktail dress: cinching at the waist and finishing off with ruffles to accentuate your feminine figure. Whether you’re looking for a classic look, like the ‘Grace’ or glamming it up with the sequined ‘Giselle,’ you’re sure to make a show-stopping entrance like every hostess should. You can even have your little ones join in on the fun with matching ‘Little Lady’ aprons. Take your party theme a step further with Haute Hostess’ home collection consisting of napkins, placemats, table runners, and pillows. Not only does it relieve your party planning stress, it adds a unique touch that cannot be found anywhere else. The Duchess napkin set is made from satin adding a subtle elegance to your dining experience. You can choose from three collections of placemats, however, The Black Tie line is nestled perfectly between classy and radiance featuring sequins made up of neutral colors. The detailed table runners are sure to set the mood as they complement any centerpiece and speak for themselves. The selection includes various patterns and fabrics tailored to party perfection. The Haute Hostess can help bring back those fond memories of hosting the perfect get-together with loved ones only to create new ones that will last a lifetime. These hosting techniques would leave Jay Gatsby in awe. Holiday Hosting Tips by Elizabeth Scokin 1. The Perfect Table Setting: A beautifully set table is the canvas for a delicious meal. Incorporate elegant table dressings such as pave sequin placemats and duchess satin napkins from Haute Hostess combined with fragrant Christmas greens, berries, white orchids and candles. A couple of Southern “MUSTS” are homemade divinity, chocolate meringue pie, and ambrosia. Lastly, don’t forget a top-drawer bar that includes Pappy Van Winkle and great wines such as Brunello di Montalcino and Caymus. 2. A Haute Hostess Approved Guest List: The perfect holiday party starts with a thoughtful guest list. Family and close friends come first – remember who you are as you are surrounded by your loved ones, that is the Southern way. Send out invitations three to four weeks in advance as calendars fill up fast around the holiday season. PaperlessPost.com has chic invitations that are also eco-friendly! 3. Dress to Impress: To look sexy yet tasteful, understated glamour ala Audrey Hepburn is my style. A sheath dress, pearl and diamond earrings, heavy gold charm bracelet, black velvet pointed toe pumps with a slim 4 inch heel, and a glam Haute Hostess Apron. 4. Keeping Your Guests Entertained, without Cell Phones! Once cocktails are flowing and guests are full, bring out board games for some old school fun. Among family and friends, my favorite game is to ask everyone to tell their favorite Christmas adventure from childhood based upon one of the trinkets contained in the English Christmas Crackers, which are set at their dinner setting. Or, start a revolving Christmas Tale by beginning a story and having each person around the table adding to the tale. Set time limits and have a small egg timer. 5. The Element of Surprise: Bonus Tip: Add a little sparkle to your party. Use your spare bathroom for a champagne bar…champagne bottles in a sparkling clean bathroom with oodles of ice and an attendant to pour the bubbly in sleek champagne glasses for your delightfully surprised guests is a surefire winner! For more information on Haute Hostess, please visit www.hautehostessaprons.com Click here to view this post in MSM’s November/December 2015 digital issue