November. Already?
November florals, bread bows, & a playlist.
Is it just me?
Or do parties sometimes feel like a marathon of small talk and sidestepping awkward silences?
Give me a good playlist and a glass of wine at home any day.
But recently, I stumbled on a concept I could actually get behind: the cake party. You bring a cake and get four glorious minutes to grab as many slices as you can. Then, just sit and savor. Now, that is my kind of social gathering. Someday, maybe I'll host one for all of us…think of it as my ode to good cake and better company.
Also, can we talk about how it's already November 3rd? This year, the holiday spirit arrived early, helped along by a looming content deadline and a neighbor who committed hard to his Michael Myers costume—he never broke character, not once.
Picture me in full holiday mode—Martha Stewart's latest doc playing softly in the background, me fluffing branches like it's an art form (and honestly, isn't it?).
Here's to diving into November with all its cozy charm, warming rituals, and the little things that make life feel extra intentional.
NEW NEWS:
The Holiday Decorating Masterclass:
An Interior Designer’s Secrets to a Festive, Timeless Home
Mark your calendars for the Friday before Thanksgiving (22nd NOV)—I'm hosting a live (and recorded) masterclass that goes beyond the basics, designed for those ready to elevate their holiday decor.
We’ll dive into:
creating a sophisticated, layered look with a designer's touch.
incorporating natural elements and crafting the perfect Christmas table.
styling a magazine-worthy tree.
finding unique gift ideas.
and mastering elegant wrapping techniques.
Upgrade to join and get exclusive access to expert insights that bring warmth, style, and intention to your holiday home. This is your moment to design a holiday that feels effortlessly chic and easy.
Doug Bihlmaier on "Collector's Gene Radio"
Doug Bihlmaier, the visionary behind Ralph Lauren’s vintage style, takes us on a journey from his small Kansas hometown to curating the iconic Americana aesthetic we all know and love.
In this episode, he unpacks his love for rugged, layered design—where refined meets worn, and every piece tells a story.
The Overlooked:
These are the details that seem small but make your space unforgettable.
The November Florals Trick: Layered Greenery for Lasting Freshness
November calls for a mix of seasonal greenery that doesn't wilt before December.
Start with hearty greens like magnolia leaves, pine cone branches, and olive branches. Thes dry beautifully over time, allowing you to enjoy them through the entire season without constant refreshing. Add a sprig of rosemary or juniper for a subtle fragrance that instantly warms the space.
Where to Source: High-quality options from Afloral for lifelike artificial pieces or forage from a local florist who specializes in seasonal branches.
Bonus: Use a matte black vase for a refined contrast.
Scented Room Layering: Set the Mood Before Holiday Guests Arrive
Luxury is in the details, and layering scents is an understated way to make a space feel polished and inviting.
For a subtle, sophisticated fragrance, start with a cedarwood or sandalwood base diffuser, then add a touch of orange-blossom oil in select corners. This blend exudes warmth, like walking into a perfectly curated cabin.
Where to Buy: Dr. Vranjes Firenze diffusers are a personal favorite for their natural, deep fragrances. For targeted orange blossom oils, check Santa Maria Novella for artisanal quality.
Artisan Matches in Oversized Bowls for Practical Elegance:
Instead of standard lighters, stock up on artisan matches stored in decorative bowls near fireplaces or candles.
Not only are they functional, but the oversized matchboxes lend an understated elegance to everyday tasks.
The Good Stuff:
It’s the small, simple things that quietly make your home feel more like, well, home.
Handmade Brass Ladles for Serving:
Forget traditional stainless steel. Handcrafted brass ladles bring an artisanal touch to serving dishes and look stunning in an open kitchen. Their patina deepens over time, and each piece feels like a work of art.
🍲 The New Ina Garten Memoir:
Ina has finally gifted us with more than recipes—this memoir feels like stepping into her world, filled with the charm, warmth, and wisdom that makes her feel like everyone’s favorite kitchen confidante. It’s got that soothing quality we all love about Ina, and reading it feels like the coziest conversation, with a side of her best stories and a dash of inspiration.
Bringing Nature Indoors in Unexpected Ways:
A simple branch—yes, a branch—in a large glass vase can be more striking than an elaborate floral arrangement. It's organic, raw, and effortlessly cool.
Pro Tip: Look for branches with interesting shapes or moss.
The collabs you didn’t know you needed, and a few must-haves you definitely do.
Cast Iron S’mores Pan:
A cast iron s’mores pan is perfect for bringing a touch of nostalgia to cozy evenings indoors. Just pop it in the oven and bring the warmth of a campfire to your table.
Olive Picks:
Functional yet chic, these olive pickers elevate charcuterie boards with a little extra flair. The kind of detail that guests notice (and inevitably ask about).
Bread Bows:
A fun, quirky tool for perfectly slicing bread—great for anyone who loves a touch of whimsy in the kitchen
Denim Gunny Sac:
This sac is like your favorite jeans but with room for snacks.
Something that just feels like home:
Whether today’s your first day here (welcome, truly!) or you’ve been part of this circle for a while, I just want to say how much it means to have each of you here.
November is that time of year when we all seem to crave something warmer, something richer, and something that just feels like home. And there’s nothing quite like creating that feeling together.
I’m hosting an exclusive holiday design session to bring it all together. Think of it as an intimate conversation where I’ll share the small tricks and simple layers that can transform any room into a true retreat for the season.
If this resonates, I’d love for you to join.
And even if now’s not the right time, know that I’ll be here each week, sharing those thoughtful ideas and pieces that help make life just a bit richer.
This season is about the warmth we bring into our lives, and I’m grateful to be sharing it with all of you.
Until next time,
Love ya, mean it, bye!
Peyton.