The brand founder and lover of life’s little pleasures talks festive hosting
Both Aerin Lauder’s classic style and ability to turn any occasion into an event to be remembered are respected amongst New York’s elite set. Widely considered to be at some of the most refined events in the city’s social calendar, her exquisite dinners, trunk shows and even her staff parties are evidence that Aerin is a natural-born hostess.
One can imagine then that, when it comes to the holidays, the Tastemaker has big plans. But what does an Aerin Lauder Christmas look like?
The holiday season is one of my favourite times of year. I love seeing all the festive decorations and celebrating with family and friends.
I start preparing for the holidays in mid-December. I use the same ornaments and family hand-me-down items every year.
My style is classic and elegant, with a modern twist. I love making my home festive by placing berry branches and dahlias throughout the house and wrapping garlands around staircases and fireplace mantles. We are always hosting friends and family for the holidays and I love to serve candies and gourmet potato chips in beautiful gold decorative bowls. It’s something my grandmother taught me and has always been a favourite with guests and makes for a beautiful presentation on a coffee table.
My New York home and Aspen home are very different in style and aesthetic, but my holiday decorating style is consistent regardless of what home I am celebrating in. I am often inspired by nature, and love to bring elements of the outdoors in with beautiful branches and seasonal flowers.
I always try to host a family dinner around Christmas Eve with lots of red flowers and family plates that belonged to my grandmother, Estée. I also always host a holiday party for my office which is a fun and festive way to end the year.
I love spending quality time with my family for the holidays in my Aspen home. We are typically at home for a casual dinner, skiing or meeting friends at one of my favourite restaurants in town.
In a technological world, there is something special about gifting illustrated books. I love giving a great coffee table book that’s tailored to the interests of the person I am gifting. Whether they are passionate about design, fashion, travel, food, or art, there are so many wonderful, beautiful books to choose from. I also love gifting a beautiful frame with a photo of family/friends.
I love to entertain and have guests over for dinner, drinks and conversation. Good friends are an extension of my family.
My favourite holiday memory is getting up Christmas morning and opening my stocking full of candies and surprises.
I will be spending Christmas this year with my family in NYC.
