The Magic of a Full House
My Inner Martha Stewart Activated
Without a doubt my love language is hosting – and not just in plain terms where you invite guests and provide food, drink and entertainment, but because I’m given the privilege of providing a beautiful space where people gather to create traditions and memories together.
It’s no surprise that this is rooted in how I was raised. I grew up in a big, bustling household - five kids, parents who were both one of six, and way too many cousins on both sides to count. My childhood was decorated with recurring Sunday dinners at my grandparents, vibrant holidays shared with family and friends, and a home that always had my mom’s famous chocolate chip cookies on the counter – attracting the neighborhood as much as they did us. I grew up in a home where people gathered, lingered, and always felt welcome.
Later in life I found myself running a ballet company that served tens of thousands each year. What I loved most? Slipping into the theater during performances to witness the house filled with families, couples, and friends –people creating memories together. I loved how it brought people together through a shared experience. I loved how I was at the forefront of providing the space to make it happen. I loved how it made me feel –joyous, purposeful, proud.
When Sean and I were looking for houses [read the full story here] prior to moving to California, we talked about finding a place that had space to allow us to host holidays, pasta Sundays, pizza nights and annual parties. Since we’ve moved we’ve hosted a dozen times – Halloween, Thanksgiving, birthday parties, weekly dinners, our engagement!! Seeing the house filled reminds me of the chaos of home –it brings me comfort –it makes me feel closer to friends and family on the East Coast.
With Easter around the corner, Sean and I are excited to begin an annual tradition of our own: Easter Brunch at the Harris (soon to be!) House. My hope is that our nieces and nephews look forward to the Easter Egg Hunt, my designated fine china becomes a nostalgic novelty, and the bagel bar becomes an anticipated event.
As I begin curating the menu, weaving in whimsical decor and sprinkling in those sparkly details that turn a holiday into the most anticipated event of the year, I’d love for you to come along for the ride. I’ll be sharing every step of the process on Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok (@calicottagecutie).
In the words of an icon, “So the pie isn’t perfect? Cut it into wedges. Stay in control and never panic.”
Here’s my Easter Brunch Mood Board(s):
