Today, we are honored to welcome back Linda Jane Holden — author, historian, and thoughtful storyteller. Known for her beautiful tributes to Bunny Mellon in The Gardens of Bunny Mellon and Bunny Mellon Style, Linda has a gift for bringing legacy to life.

In this episode, she shares something far more personal: her friendship with Hubert de Givenchy. Our conversation moves beyond fashion and into the intimate terrain of character and connection. We reflect not only on the designer who made Audrey Hepburn unforgettable, but on the man behind the maison — the friend.

In this episode, we’re inviting you into the world of Pasquale Et Maurice Home, a destination for antiques, artisanal textiles, home décor, and bespoke interior design services. Rooted in Old World craftsmanship and modern sensibility, the shop is paired with a beautifully curated online store showcasing timeless pieces sourced from across Europe and New England.

You are introduced to the Co-founders Lino and Gregory.

Lino, born and raised in Sicily, was immersed in the world of art, design, and luxury fabrics from an early age. The son of entrepreneurs who spent more than forty years in the textile industry, he developed a deep appreciation for aesthetics in all forms—from interiors and materiality to music and culture.

His partner Gregory, raised in Provence, relocated to Sicily at thirty, where he became the creative force behind a series of commercial projects defined by a distinctly Southern Italian, farm-inspired elegance. In 2010, he opened his first concept store and restaurant in Noto, Sicily—a space whose authentic yet refined aesthetic quickly drew international attention from publications including Vogue and Architectural Digest.

Today, their Washington, Connecticut location serves as both a design studio and a gathering place—an inspiring hub where antiques, décor, and interiors are grounded in history, patina, and personal meaning. Every vignette invites pause, memory, and interpretation, speaking differently to each discerning visitor.

Lino and Gregory’s shared philosophy is woven into every detail: warmth, curiosity, and an open invitation to discover what resonates with you. And in this conversation, you’ll hear how their journey—from Sicily and Provence to New York and New England—continues to shape a world where beauty is intentional, stories matter, and nothing is chosen by chance.

Welcome to our 50th episode, a milestone we are proud to celebrate with two designers whose work embodies the very spirit of thoughtful living.

We're joined by Gary McBournie and Bill Richards of McBournie Richards, the award-winning residential interior design firm based in New York City and Boston with projects spanning the globe.

In this episode, Gary and Bill share their perspective on creating a true sense of place - one rooted in history, layered storytelling, and an understanding of how spaces are meant to be lived in. They walk us through their approach while offering practical insight for those looking to thoughtfully bring this sensibility into their own home.

Beyond their work, their warmth, wit, and genuine joy shine throughout the conversation. Prepare to be inspired not only by their design philosophy, but by the essence of their authentic spirit.

While there are many elements that shape how we live, nothing is more personal than how we care for ourselves. It is one of the oldest and most nourishing rituals in the world.  In this episode, we're delighted to welcome Alex and Tathiana, founders of Plain-T, a boutique tea company located in Southampton, New York.

Built on a belief that mental and physical health are enhanced through the mindful consumption of whole leaf tea. Plain-T offers an exceptional assortment of specialty, hand-selected teas sourced from the world's most prized gardens.

Their thoughtfully curated collection has become a favorite among luxury hotels and spas, fine dining restaurants, and cafes that prioritize quality and experience.  In fact, Plain-T was chosen to personally share their story and tea offerings with the Dalai Lama. 

Their online destination engages through thoughtful storytelling, inviting exploration and fostering a lasting connection to the brand. At its heart, Plain-T reflects Alex and Tathiana’s personal journey with tea—a passion that reshaped their daily rituals and deepened their connection to its story and craft.

Through this journey, they came to see tea as more than a beverage, but a quiet, meaningful practice—one that invites us to slow down, savor the moment, and begin the year with intention.

We have the perfect guide to mixing a little extra merry and bright. We’re joined by Kara Newman—award-winning writer, author, and recipe developer. Kara is the Spirits Editor for Wine Enthusiast and a writer-at-large whose expertise has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and more.
In this episode, Kara Kara also shares her journey—from writing about financial performance to becoming one of the most trusted voices in the food and drink world today.  We discuss Her philosophy for creating a home bar that feels effortless and inviting. Drawing from her books Shake. Stir. Sip. and Cocktails for a Crowd, she offers smart, crowd-pleasing ideas that take the stress out of entertaining. We also talk about her newest series, The Cocktail Cabinet, and how these beautifully curated cards have become an essential for home bars and hosts alike.

Join us as we toast the season—adding a little sparkle, a little ease, and just the right cocktail or mocktail to make your celebration merry and bright! 

With Thanksgiving behind us, the season gently shifts toward intimate gatherings: dinners with friends. The timing feels just right for our next guest, Frankie Unsworth, a food stylist, writer, and author of The New Art of Cooking and Last Minute Dinner Party. 

Frankie's journey began as a writer for a food and travel magazine in Italy. Her passion for culture and cuisine eventually took her to Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, where she trained and lived for several years.

It was in Paris that she met Rachel Khoo, British author and host of The LIttle Paris Kitchen whom she would go on to become her home economist.

In this episode, she invites us into that very approach — offering thoughtful tips on how simple styling can elevate the way we present food at home. We also chat about her go-to nibbles for the holidays and the selections she turns to when guests stop by.

Frankie’s styling mirrors her grace and genuine nature. There’s a quiet elegance in the way she works — an ease that turns hosting into an invitation. Her talents remind us that celebration doesn’t have to be complicated — sometimes, it simply needs space to unfold.

This week, as Thanksgiving invites us to gather and give thanks, the dinner table becomes more than a place to eat—it becomes a space to connect, to listen, and to cherish the people we love. Yet in our effort to make it beautiful, we often bring stress to the surface with layers of linens and the pressure to get every detail just right. Sometimes, we simply want things elevated… yet easy.  Thankfully, we have options.

Proper Table is one of them—a collection of acrylic placemats and coasters inspired by vintage fabrics with timeless appeal. Thoughtfully designed for both messy and stylish eaters, these pieces prove that style and simplicity can beautifully coexist.

In this episode, we welcome Dana Lewis, founder of Proper Table. Dana shares how the brand came to life, the effortless care behind these clever textiles, and her exciting collaboration with LA-based interior designer Nate Turner. Proper Table has been featured in House Beautiful and Vogue for its sensibility and style—and it’s no wonder the brand has become a beloved go-to for savvy entertainers who want to keep it easy and elevated.

Dana embodies the very spirit of Proper Table: her timeless taste paired with an effortless sense of ease, she creates the very feeling that you want to bring to your own home.

In this episode, we meet Alice and Francesca, the co-founders of Porta—a beautiful Brooklyn-based brand whose ever-evolving collection of tableware and homewares invites us to discover, delight, and bring a sense of artistry to everyday living.

Blending European heritage craft with modern sensibility, each Porta piece honors the founders’ Italian roots while reflecting the spirit of their global travels and inspirations.

Alice and Francesca, childhood friends who grew up together in London and now call Brooklyn home, share their gift for storytelling, artisan collaboration, and the quiet beauty that transforms how we gather and live.

Just like the artisans who contribute to their brand, they each bring a distinct creativity and individuality that sets Porta apart. Join us as we explore their brand journey, their favorite pieces, and the holiday traditions they hold dear.

In this episode, we welcome Amy Neunsinger and Lucinda Lent, the visionary co-founders of l.a. ROUGE—a brand whose very essence lets us light that magic all year long.

Amy is a celebrated photographer, designer, and host of HBO's Capturing Home. Her photography and creative direction has supported the influential lifestyle brands and talents, including Reese Witherspoon, Kate Hudson, Leanne Ford, and Mark D. Sykes. Her work and personal style have appeared in Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Martha Stewart Living, the LA Times and countless other publications. 

Combine this strength with Lucinda’s strategic mind, drive and creative business vision — shaped by her leadership as CEO of The Coop and Executive Director LA Dance Project,  you will begin to see why this beautiful brand is beginning to unfold into something truly special. 

l.a. ROUGE candles are not just candles. There are revolution in red — blended from essential oils, each candle is poured into a chic whiskey glass designed to earn its place at the dinner table. 

As you listen to this episode, you will discover the red wick is more than just a signature branding element.  It represents what happens to the heart when a connection is made. You'll feel that same connection with Amy and Lucinda who embody the spirit of l.a. ROUGE — they create moments of joy, intention, and beauty, each in their own unique way.

We’re kicking the Holiday off with someone who embodies merry and bright all year long—Lulu Powers, the vivacious Entertainologist and celebrated chef to the stars. Lulu joined us last season to help us ring in the New Year with her effortless Park Avenue Brunch, and she’s back with even more inspiration.

This episode is packed with joy:

• Lulu shares the intel on the unforgettable evening she cooked for Martha Stewart this summer on Nantucket.

• Her can’t-miss Thanksgiving hosting guide — filled with signature Lulu flair.

• A first look at her chic entertaining collection debuting at Bloomingdale’s — already an instant best seller. 

From her early days launching a catering business to becoming one of the most sought-after chefs in Los Angeles and New York—with clients like Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio, Madonna, and Kelly Wearstler—Lulu has built a career blending her incredible culinary talent with boundless creativity adding her signature warmth that makes everything she touches feel elevated and unforgettable.

Lulu is the kind of person who leaves an impression long after you meet her—her generosity, joy, and genuine spirit remind us all that life is meant to be lived beautifully.

How do you capture a sense of place, indulgence, and timeless detail all in one bite? You savor Tuck Shop chocolates, of course!

We're delighted to be hosting founders Sarah Michler and Caroline Whitmer, whose story began with a bittersweet moment—discovering that their favorite Nantucket chocolate shop, Sweet Inspirations, was closing.

That spark of nostalgia inspired them to create something entirely their own: an exquisite confectionery that celebrates distinctive flavors and the joy of being in your happy place.

In this episode, Sarah and Caroline share how their friendship, complementary talents, and shared love of fine chocolate came together to inspire a brand infused with meaning and memory.

Get ready to have your palate intrigued and your senses stirred as we explore their favorite creations, their creative process, and the beautiful notes that make Tuck Shop chocolates truly unforgettable.

Stylish getaways aren’t just about travel—they’re about finding places that feel warm, personal, and unforgettable.

This week on Classic & Curious, we’re joined by Jackie Caradonio, award-winning travel editor and author of The Inn Crowd—a stunning collection of boutique inns that celebrate style, soul, and storytelling.

From the inspiration behind the book to the destinations and unique stays inside its pages, Jackie invites us to see travel as more than a trip—it’s a story waiting to unfold.

Listen in and get inspired to discover the beauty and meaning behind your next stay.

Celebrate spring and the beauty of gardens with Anne and Butter Wakefield, one of the UK’s most distinguished garden designers. With a background from Christie’s New York, training at the English Gardening School and the London College of Garden Design, Butter has earned accolades including RHS Gold and recognition at the Chelsea Flower Show. Drawing from her family’s gardening legacy, she shares insights on designing with intention, color, scale, and pattern. This episode is perfect for garden lovers and design enthusiasts seeking inspiration, creativity, and the enduring beauty that thoughtful gardens bring into our lives.

In this episode, Sandra Sigman, founder of Les Fleurs and author of French Blooms, shares her journey from professional figure skater in Paris to award-winning floral designer in Massachusetts. Inspired by Parisian style and her mother’s love of flowers, Sandra built Les Fleurs into a beloved boutique for French-inspired florals, home, and garden design. She discusses her book, which offers tutorials and principles for creating timeless arrangements, and her intimate guided tours of Paris. Featured in Flower Magazine, The New York Times, and Veranda, Sandra brings the beauty of French design to life with elegance and joy.

In this episode of Classic & Curious, Anne welcomes Crystal Moore, founder of Garden & Grace. Based in Charlotte, Crystal has built a beloved platform featuring timeless architecture, landscape, and interior design inspiration. Her YouTube channel showcases elegant home tours—many reaching over 74K views—while her blog and shopping guides blend approachable how-to’s with heartfelt storytelling. A standout feature is the Garden & Grace Directory, a trusted resource connecting followers with vetted designers, builders, and artisans. With over 169K Instagram followers, Crystal is inspiring a loyal community with her refined taste, thoughtful voice, and modern-day grac