High Heeled Hostess in The Reston Letter
Contributing Lifestyle Writer
This page gathers all of my contributions to The Reston Letter newspaper in one place, so you can jump straight into hosting advice that works right now. From my How To Hosting series in the Lifestyle section to opinion pieces on why gathering matters, you’ll find practical tips, creative ideas, and guidance to help you host with confidence and ease.​
​
The Lost Art of Gathering-Why Dining Together Still Matters
This inaugural opinion piece explores why the simple act of gathering at the table still holds real power in a world obsessed with speed and convenience. It’s a reminder that connection, conversation, and shared meals remain at the heart of a thriving community, and that creating space for others is one of the most meaningful things we can still do.
Whether I’m mixing people from different corners of my life or carving out space for real conversation in a world that rarely slows down, the goal is always the same: to make people feel welcome.
The Reston Letter Hosting Series
​Welcome to the six-part newspaper series designed to help you master the art of hosting. From setting the mood to dazzling guests with unforgettable food and decor, the series will include tips to guide seasoned entertainers and first-time hosts.​
Guide to Holiday Hosting
Holiday entertaining can be one of the year's most joyful and overwhelming times. It doesn’t have to be. With a few strategies and well-placed touches, your gathering can be festive and elegant without much effort.
​
From throwing a cocktail party to hosting a sit-down dinner or planning a casual open house, these five tips will help you entertain with confidence, style, and make your guests feel well cared for.
How to Bring the Red, White and Wow to Your Summer Party
As summer kick’s off, it's time to prepare for the upcoming patriotic holidays. I'll share hosting tips to take Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day parties from ordinary to extraordinary. With the warmer weather, take the party outdoors.
How to Refresh Your Hosting for Spring
With winter fading and warmer days ahead, it’s the perfect time to breathe new life into your gatherings with a seasonal refresh. Brighter colors, seasonal flavors, and lighter accents are a few ways to effortlessly transition your decor and menus to welcome the season with style.
Love Is In The Details: How to Host a Perfect Valentine’s Soirée
This Valentine’s Day, celebrate love your way—ditch the clichés, shake up traditions, and do what fills your heart. Whether indulging in a cozy solo night, toasting friendship at a Galentine’s bash, or planning an intimate evening with your partner, make this day as unique as the love you’re celebrating. Continue reading
How to Host with Intention: Setting Goals for the New Year
The start of a new year is the perfect time to reflect, reset, and dream big for the months ahead—a fresh start brimming with possibility. While setting hosting goals might not seem resolution-worthy, they can transform your gatherings into intentional, stress-free, and memorable experiences. With thoughtful planning and creativity, you can design events that reflect your unique style and foster meaningful connections. Continue reading
How to Be the Ultimate Holiday Host
The holidays are here, and the hosting season is in full swing. Throwing a cocktail party, a festive dinner, or a New Year’s Eve bash can be challenging—but it’s also your chance to shine as the host. Plan ahead, get creative, and infuse your style into the details to make the party as much fun for you as it is for your guests.​ Continue reading
Grill and Gather: Master the Art of the Summer BBQ
Few things capture the spirit of summer like the scent of the grill, cold drinks in hand, and guests lingering in flip-flops and sundresses. Incorporate just a few simple tweaks to transform a casual backyard barbecue into a gathering that’s effortless, memorable, and full of flavor.
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together with a few friends or a larger-scale party, these tips will help you master the BBQ and be the talk of your friends and neighbors.