Joe Nye's new book  Flair, Exquisite Invitations, Lush Flowers, and Gorgeous Table Settings, is a thoughtful, chic and comprehensive guide to all sorts of entertaining.  In our modern times, the idea of traditional entertaining can seem daunting.  Nye encourages the reader to use what is around the house, but is also clear about what one should invest in.  We are not to hold ourselves to the standards of the Ritz Carlton, but there are formalities in entertaining that shouldn't be ignored.  Nye breaks this down in a practical and easy to follow way.

Included in the book are gorgeous photographs of place settings and flower arrangements presented in such a way as not to intimidate the budding host or hostess. 

Who better than Joe Nye, our modern-day traditionalist, to guide you through your next soiree!

Read Balustrade & Bitters' interview with Joe Nye here.

To purchase a copy of Flair for yourself and/or a friend (this book will make an excellent gift):

Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, Indiebound.com

Photo (c) Edmund Barr from FLAIR by Joe Nye, Rizzoli 2010

Photo (c) Edmund Barr from FLAIR by Joe Nye, Rizzoli 2010

Photo (c) Edmund Barr from FLAIR by Joe Nye, Rizzoli 2010

Photo (c) Edmund Barr from FLAIR by Joe Nye, Rizzoli 2010

Last night we attended a  gorgeous event held on a gorgeous summer evening. The Venice Beach venue of Floral Art was the scene for hosts, Barclay Butera, Joe Nye and proprietress Jennifer McGarigle to welcome author Susanna Salk and her newest book, "Weekend Retreats". A must have book filled with a collection of beautiful photography transporting you in a single sitting.

Chilled cylindrical glasses of Champagne and Sparkling Rose´were passed, along with  bite sized tuna tartar morsels while the party goers listened to sounds being deftly spun by dj, Jeremy Sole of Afro Funke´. Also featured in McGarigle's stunning space was her new line of plexiglass, floral themed furniture, 'Floret'. Among our favorites was the peony chair.    *photographs by Megan Arquette

dj, Jeremy Sole of Afro Funke´

 

Salk signing her latest release, "Weekend Retreats"

 Joe Nye greets a guest

 Barclay Butera and Susanna Salk

Joe Nye, Susanna Salk, Barclay Butera, Jennifer McGarigle of Floral Art

The Peony Chair, part of Floral Art's new "Floret" Collection