Design episodes are meant to introduce you to a unique design element, but often, the may reveal something even more inspiring along the way.
In this episode, you’ll meet two women whose journey is as much about creativity as it is about legacy. Anna Garcia and Mary Lovett Beck, the founders of Varnish Collection, are mothers and visionaries who are role modeling grit and grace—not only for their daughters, but for a generation of women in business.
Varnish Collection’s pieces offer a fresh perspective on traditional wicker furniture. Every piece is hand crafted by artisan partners to create one of a kind classic designs. From game tables to lighting and sofas to champagne stands, the Varnish Collection brings personality to the room that is unique and its own.
In this episode we discuss:
Varnish Collection has been celebrated in Luxe Interiors + Design, Veranda, The Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Designer Showhouse, and Kips Bay Showhouse in NYC. You’ll also find their collection in top design destinations like Mecox Gardens and Hive in Palm Beach.
Join us as we explore how their love of family and thoughtful craftsmanship helped shape a brand designed for beautiful, meaningful, everyday moments.
Connect with Varnish Collection @varnish.collection and varnish collection.com
Connect with Anne @styledbyark and @classicandcuriouspodcast.
Should you need a little design advice? You can book your MINI here styledbyark.com/mini-booking
Welcome back to Classic & Curious —
In this episode, we’re joined by Shannon Ables, founder of The Simply Luxurious Life, an internationally celebrated lifestyle blog that has been inspiring readers since 2009. Shannon reminds us that true contentment doesn’t come from excess—it comes from living with purpose.
In this episode Anne & Shannon discuss:
Shannon is also the author of three books, including her latest, The Road to Le Papillon: Daily Meditations on True Contentment — a #1 New Release and #1 Bestseller in France Travel.
If you’re someone who values quality over quantity, sensibility over excess, and fulfillment over conformity, this episode is your invitation to slow down, savor more, and live your own version of the simply luxurious life.
🎧 Tune in and let Shannon’s wisdom, warmth, and thoughtful approach guide you toward a more meaningful and beautiful way of living.
Connect with Shannon @thesimplyluxuriouslife and thesimplyluxuriouslife.com
Listen to The Simple Sophisticate on your favorite listening platform
Connect with Anne @styledbyark and @classicandcuriouspodcast
This week on the podcast: Chef Miguel Samoza
From cooking for the British Royal Family to creating unforgettable meals at Flora in Newport, RI, Miguel’s culinary journey is as rich and flavorful as the dishes he serves.
Originally from Madrid, Spain, Miguel has cooked alongside Michelin-starred legends Anton Mosimann and Michel Bras. He also served as Sir Richard Branson’s private chef. Now, he brings Mediterranean flair and New England ingredients together with heart, artistry, and a deep love for hospitality.
Together Anne & Miguel discuss:
– His path from Spain to Newport
– The vision behind Flora’s seasonal menu
– His love for local sourcing and storytelling through food
Miguel’s story is a feast for the soul—and Flora is a place you’ll want to return to again and again. Flora restaurant is located within the beautiful Gardiner House in Newport, Rhode Island.
Tune in. Be inspired. Come with an appetite!
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You can find Flora @flora.newport @gardinerhousenpt
You can find Anne @styledbyark
Follow us @classicandcuriouspodcast
Every once in a while, there is a podcast episode that resonates far beyond its subject matter—one that stays with you. This is one of those episodes.
We are honored to welcome Karina Gentinetta, a remarkable artist based in both New York City and New Orleans. Her story is one of resilience, reinvention, and the quiet strength that emerges through adversity. It will move you, inspire you, and perhaps awaken something powerful within yourself.
Born in Argentina, Karina moved to New Orleans at the age of 12. She graduated at the top of her class from Tulane University and went on to become a partner at a prestigious law firm. But life took a dramatic turn after Hurricane Katrina destroyed her home. From that loss, Karina followed a deeper calling—returning to the creative soul within in her. Today, she brings that passion to life through her extraordinary art and furniture design.
In this episode Anne & Karina
Her collectors span the United States and beyond. In 2016, she partnered with RH Modern on a limited-edition series that quickly sold out.
Her work has been featured in numerous prestigious publications, including Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, Luxe Interiors + Design, The New York Times, and many more.
Meeting Karina feels like encountering one of her artworks—a rare fusion of beauty and purpose. She is a living juxtaposition of grace and courage, embodying the same brilliance found in every stroke of her creations.
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Connect with Karina Gentinetta on IG: @karina.gentinetta and karinagentinetta.com
Connect with Anne on IG: @styledbyark
For those who delight in discovering boutique hotels worth coveting and returning to, this episode is a must-listen. We’re joined by hotelier Sylvia Wong, founder of the award-winning The Roundtree Hotel in Amagansett, NY.
A graduate of NYU Law School, Sylvia’s journey from corporate law to hospitality was both organic and inevitable.
Sylvia’s discovery of The Roundtree’s serene location sparked a vision that would evolve into a beautiful reflection of quiet luxury. The property blends modern furnishings and commissioned artwork with natural materials and bespoke amenities—creating a space that feels like a sophisticated extension of home.
The Roundtree Hotel is rich in history. Tucked away in a charming hamlet in East Hampton, it features the oldest house in Amagansett, originally built by one of the first four families to settle the area in the 1600s. In fact, one of the two-bedroom cottages on the property is over 250 years old.
As a guest, you’ll enjoy a mix of experiences—from art museums and chic boutiques to wellness offerings and the vibrant Hamptons culinary scene. All of this is set within a gorgeous environment—whether you’re staying in a barn room, cottage, or the exclusive beach house, it’s no surprise the hotel has earned accolades like Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Award.
In this episode Anne and Sylvia discuss:
It is clear why The Roundtree is a favorite stay. This home away from home is a true reflection of who Sylvia is—elegant, authentic, and humble. That spirit is reflected in every detail, especially in the hotel’s unparalleled service, always seeking new ways to delight each guest.
Connect with The Roundtree @theroundtreeamagansett and Book your stay on theroundtreehotels.com
You can find Anne @styledbyark.com
If you love Bespoke Brands, you will absolutely adore this episode as we host Fin Fellowes, London based Artist, Illustrator and Founder of The Kensington Paperie.
For over a decade, Fin has been known for exquisite one of a kind paper creations for special events, weddings, and luxury brands across the world. A notable example of this is the collaboration with Cabana Magazine & partnership with founder and editor, Martina Mondadori.
The Kensington Paperie is a nod to Fin’s personal love for wrapping a beautiful gift. She has created a stunning collection of wrapping paper inspired by the elegance of Italian marble and vivid florals reminiscent of the 18th century english textile designer, Anna Maria Garthwaite. These thoughtfully designed papers are complimented with unique textures such as raw silk ribbon and Japanese washi tape resulting in a style that elevates gift-giving in an extraordinary and emotional way.
In this episode Anne & Fin discuss:
The exceptional work of Fin Fellows and The Kensington Paperie has garnered recognition in publications such as Cabana Magazine, US Vogue, House & Garden, and the Wall Street Journal.
Fin has not only established a brand that beautifully embodies British style and design, but her distinctive touch has also positioned it in a covetable space. Her spirit and brilliant combination of creativity and purposeful vision suggest that The Kensington Paperie is on its way to becoming a cherished British heritage brand.
Connect with Fin Fellowes @finfellowes and The Kensington Paperie @thekensingtonpaperie and thekensingtonpaperie.com
Connect with Anne @styledbyark.com and @classicandcuriouspodcast
Welcome to May! This is a wonderful month to honor mothers and the special women who have shaped our lives.
Following the positive response to the first Currently Loving episode, Anne and Abby are excited to return with their insights on celebrating Mother's Day!
Currently Loving is a seasonal feature within Classic & Curious, offering a blend of perspectives from our host and her daughter, both with unique tastes. Anne's extensive 20-year background in fashion and refined sensibility, paired with Abby's design-oriented approach, promises to bring you delightful ideas.
In this episode, Anne and Abby share:
* Their top recommendations for gifts.
* Thoughtful, no-cost gift ideas.
* Suggestions for spending quality time together, the most valuable gift of all.
* Heartwarming mother-daughter memories.
Let's remember that Mother's Day is also a time to appreciate women who offer mentorship, guidance, protection, and love.
Join us as we explore many wonderful ways to make someone feel special and appreciated.
Complete show notes can be found @styledbyark.com
Follow Anne @styeldbyark.com
A tastemaker brings together elegance and joy, curating thoughtful details that make a space feel special. Whether you’re seasoned tastemaker or aspiring one, this episode will be sure to complement your expertise.
We’re joined by Carolyn and Cynthia of Diane James Home, creators of gorgeous faux floral arrangements so realistic, they even fool the bees.
Their story began in 1997 when their mother, Diane, launched her first collection at Bergdorf Goodman. By 2008, the debut of their e-commerce platform made their signature florals accessible to designers and tastemakers around the world. Their pieces have graced everything from chic city apartments and countryside estates to five-star hotels, Hollywood sets, and even presidential libraries.
Diane James Home has celebrated collaborations with noteworthy brands such as, Gray Malin, Aerin Lauder, Ashley Stark, Lee Jofa, and Serena & Lily. What makes their brand so distinct is that—like couture—each design is handmade with love.
And of course, there’s something inherently special about a family business. The love, attention to detail, and genuine joy Carolyn and Cynthia bring to their work shines through in every arrangement—and in this conversation. Their warmth is as comforting and fresh as the first days of spring.
In this episode :
Complete show notes can be found on styledbyark.com
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Connect with Diane James Home via Instagram @dianejameshome and dianejameshome.com
As we welcome the fresh energy of spring, it feels only right to celebrate the season with a conversation about gardens and the beauty they bring into our lives. And who better to join us than one of the most distinguished garden designers in the UK - Butter Wakefield.
Butter grew up on a small farm outside Baltimore, Maryland. After gaining experience at Christie’s in New York City, she relocated to London in 1988. There, she began her career at Colfax and Fowler as a design assistant, where she honed essential design principles such as color, scale, and pattern.
In 1992, she followed her true calling: gardening - an art form embedded in her family’s legacy. With a mother, aunt and grandparents who were all accomplished gardeners, it was inevitable that Butter would cultivate a passion for gardens herself. She trained at the English Gardening School before graduating from the prestigious London College of Garden Design.
Today, she's recognized as one of House & Garden's Top 50 Garden Designers and has earned multiple accolades including the RHS, Gold medal and the People's Choice Award at the Chatsworth Flower Show for the Belmont Enchanted Garden. Her talent was also acknowledged at the Chelsea Flower Show, where she received Best Trade Stand Award for Gay's Burrville.
William Kent once said, "Garden as if you will live forever." The wisdom Butter shares today reminds us of the lasting beauty we can create when we design with intention and heart.
Butter’s vibrant spirit, generosity, and boundless creativity are as inspiring as her gardens.
In this episode, Butter and Anne discuss:
Complete show notes can be found at: @styledbyark.com
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Connect with Butter Wakefield on IG @butterwakefield and at butterwakefield.co.uk
You can also learn more about Small Garden Design from Butter Wakefield at Create Academy, UK's most beloved learning platforms.
A fresh start isn’t just for the new year - it’s something you can embrace anytime. In this episode, we sit down with acclaimed interior designer Elizabeth Krueger, founder of Chicago-based Elizabeth Krueger Design (EKD) - one of the country’s top residential design firms.
Since launching EKD in 2012, Elizabeth has built a reputation for creating warm, inviting spaces that bring people together. Her work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Luxe Interiors + Design, and many other top publications.
At the heart of her process is an ability to foster trust, ensuring each project reflects her clients’ lives in a way that feels effortless yet deeply personal.
Beyond her design work, Elizabeth is known for her collaborative spirit. Alongside her business partner Sid Parack, she co-founded Opame Collective - a curated assemblage of furniture, art, accessories, and textiles. Each piece is thoughtfully selected with a focus on material integrity, proportion, and expert craftsmanship.
Elizabeth brings inspiration wherever she goes, whether through her work, her contagious enthusiasm, or simply by being herself.
Tune in for a conversation on designing spaces that encourage rest, reflection, and renewal all year long.
Together in this episode, Anne and Elizabeth discuss:
Complete show notes can be found at: styledbyark.com/podcast/elizabeth-kreuger-design
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Connect with Elizabeth on IG: @elizabeth.kreuger.design and elizabethkreugerdesign.com
Connect with Anne on IG: @styledbyark
If you love interior design advice, you’re in for a treat. We’re welcoming one of New York’s most celebrated designers, Jennifer Cohler Mason of J Cohler Mason Design.
Jennifer’s journey into interior design began in fashion, where she honed an intuitive eye for fabric, tailoring, and proportion. That foundation informs her interiors today - spaces that exude a refined, comfortable elegance while staying true to each client’s personal aesthetic and lifestyle.
Her meticulous attention to detail has led her to projects beyond NYC, with homes in the Hamptons, Greenwich, and Palm Beach. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and New York Cottages & Gardens. Notably, Architectural Digest has recognized her as a featured designer for three consecutive years.
Beyond design, Jennifer is deeply involved in her community, supporting NYC’s Kips Bay efforts, further demonstrating her commitment to enhancing the lives of others.
What sets Jennifer apart isn’t just her talent - it’s her humility and grace. Her signature “quiet luxury” aesthetic is admired by many, and we’re fortunate to have her share her insights with us. Approachable sophistication at its best.
In this episode, Anne and Jennifer discuss:
Complete show notes can be found at: styledbyark.com/podcast/jennifer-cohler-mason
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Connect with Jennifer Cohler Mason on IG: @jcohlermasondesign and jcohlermason.com
Connect with Anne on IG: @styledbyark
Welcome to 2025! Classic & Curious kicks off the new year with a special episode featuring host Anne and her daughter Abby. Together, they share their favorite trends, brands, and practical tips for the year ahead in what we’re calling the "Currently Loving Episode."
Anne brings her 25 years of experience in fashion retail and interior design consultancy, while Abby adds a fresh perspective as a savvy 25-year-old working in the design field. The result? A thoughtful and engaging conversation you won’t want to miss.
This episode is a small detour from our usual guest-driven format. Regularly scheduled interviews return in early February, but for now, enjoy this unique peek behind the curtain at the personal inspirations of the Classic & Curious host.
Certainly these girls do not claim to be influencers, but we think you will find what they have to say “new and noteworthy!”
In this episode, Anne and Abby discuss:
Find complete show notes and links mentioned in the episode at styledbyark.com.
Entertaining enthusiasts, get ready as we welcome back Lulu Powers, vivacious chef to the stars and Entertainologist!
Lulu started her catering career in 1994 and became one of the most sought-after chefs in LA & NY with clientele such as Arianna Huffington, Leonardo DiCaprio, Madonna, and Kelly Wearstler. She has been a guest on the Today Show, wrote an entertaining column for House Beautiful, and was featured in magazines such as Vogue, Food & Wine, Elle Décor, and InStyle.
In 2010, she launched her book Lulu Powers: Food to Flowers which shares all of her secrets to stress-free entertaining. Coveted by many, the book includes lists, tips, menus, and cocktails easing your mind, so you can relax and have fun!
Together, we discuss:
Lulu is one of those people you meet that stays with you. She touches your heart in a way that lingers. Her vibrant personality just makes you feel good all over! It's no wonder she is known and adored by so many.
Complete show notes can be found at: styledbyark.com/podcast/lulu-powers-entertainologist-2025
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Connect with Lulu Powers on IG: @lulupowers and lulupowers.com
Connect with Anne on IG: @styledbyark
Hosting people in your home is one of the most expressive ways to share joy with those you love. Welcome to the 5th episode celebrating hosting with our very special guest, Nancy Evars.
Nancy's story illustrates how personal style extends beyond fashion sensibility - it's the total essence of who you are.
Beginning her career in marketing & PR at Yahoo, Nancy worked in prominent markets including NYC, Denver, and Silicon Valley. While there, she created Yahoo's first blog and launched their influencer marketing initiative.
Sixteen years later, the girl who loved furnishing her Greenwich Village studio pivoted her career to start her own interior design business. Nancy quickly became one of the most sought-after interior designers in San Francisco and beyond. Her entrepreneurial drive led her to create Evars Collective, the first experiential destination for interior designers in the SF Peninsula area. Today, Evars Collective continues to reshape and strengthen relationships within the interior design community.
In this episode, Anne & Nancy discuss:
Nancy naturally draws admiration from near and far. She is a multifaceted storyteller of her own life: CEO, trailblazer, passionate mother and wife, avid traveler, fashion enthusiast, and someone who surrounds herself with wonderful people.
Complete show notes can be found at: styledbyark.com/podcast/nancy-evars-evarscollective
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Connect with Lulu Powers on IG: @nancyevars and @evarscollective
Connect with Anne on IG: @styledbyark
If you are an enthusiastic entertainer and love to have fun with your guests, you will not want to miss this episode.
Listen and learn as we host, Lulu Powers, vivacious chef to the stars and Entertainologist!
Lulu started her catering career in 1994 and became one of the most sought out chefs in LA & NY with clientele such as Arianna Huffington, Leonardo DiCaprio, Madonna and Kelly Whearstler. She has been a guest on the Today Show, wrote an entertaining column for House Beautiful and was featured in magazines such as Vogue, Food & Wine and Elle Decor.
In 2010, she launched her book Lulu Powers Food to Flowers which shares all of her secrets to stress-free entertaining. Coveted by many, the book includes lists, tips, menus and cocktails easing your mind, so you can relax and have fun!
Together we discuss:
Lulu is known for her elegant, yet unpretentious style. Growing up in Weston, Connecticut, one of six children, Lulu embodies a spirit that naturally puts you at ease. She credits her love of cooking & entertaining to her mom, Patty P, and dad, Mr. Powers (as many of her recipes share his title).
Lulu is one of those people you meet that stays with you. She touches your heart in a way that lingers. Her vibrant personality just makes you feel good all over! It’s no wonder she is known and adored by so many.
Complete show notes can be found at: styledbyark.com/podcast/lulu-powers-entertainologist
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Connect with Lulu Powers on IG: @lulupowers and lulupowers.com
Connect with Anne on IG: @styledbyark
For the past one hundered years, Emily Post has been America’s definitive source for how to navigate and enhance any social interaction. 'Tis the season to tune up our etiquette understanding and put it in play!
We are delighted to be hosting Lizzie Post, co-president of The Emily Post Institute and great-great-granddaughter of Emily Post.
Lizzie is the Co-Author of Emily Post’s Etiquette, The Centennial Edition. Along with her cousin Daniel, they have modernized this coveted resource to make it relevant for our times.
In this episode, Anne & Lizzie discuss:
Lizzie’s approachable nature makes the discussion around etiquette not so fussy. She shares a perspective that helps reinforce what you already know or perhaps shifts your mindset in a meaningful way. It’s no wonder she has worked as spokesperson for brands such as
Bank of America and American Express. She enjoys tackling etiquette’s taboo topics making her a great resource for many. She has interviewed with The Today Show, Fox & Friends, Vanity Fair, The Washington Post, Travel & Leisure, The New York Times and many more!
Connect with the Emily Post Institute for insights on etiquette articles, training and services at emilypost.com
You can also follow @emilypostinstitute
Listen to the Awesome Etiquette Podcast on Apple or on your favorite platform
Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss an episode!
You can find complete show notes via the podcast page at styledbyark.com/podcast
Purchase Emily Post’s Etiquette, The Centennial Edition at The Styled Shop via styledbyark.com/shop
Follow Anne @styledbyark.com
How do you celebrate a love for retail shopping AND hosting dinner parties all in one episode? You invite shop owner, author and blogger, Ted Kennedy Watson to be your guest!
Ted is owner of the award winning Watson Kennedy, purveyors of fine goods located in Seatle, Washington. A shopping experience at Watson Kennedy is like turning the pages of one your favorite magazines ... always a new discovery, there is something amazing to be found and you are left inspired from all that it has to offer.
Ted’s blog, tedkennedywatson.com, is a well-loved extension of his life and features curated finds and design tips. It is a tastemakers delight! So much so, that a New York City editor loved reading it and connected with Ted. Soon after, he published Style & Simplicity: An A to Z Guide to Living a More Beautiful Life AND Ted Kennedy Watson’s Guide to Stylish Entertaining. Both are yet another expression of Ted’s forte.
In this episode Anne & Ted discuss:
Ted will leave you inspired. Not just through doing what he loves, but through the kindness and joy he extends and the feeling you get ... just by being in the same space with him.
You can find Watson Kennedy at watsonkennedy.com.
Follow Watson Kennedy on Instagram @watsonkennedy
Complete show notes can be found on styledbyark.com/podcast/ted-kennedy-watson
You can also follow Anne via IG @styledbyark
Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss an episode!
Interior design creates movement and reflects thoughtfulness. It is the one profession that the art and discovery of each element reflects not only upon the lives and tastes of the client, but the expertise of the designer themselves.
This episode will introduce you to one of the most talented souls Anne has met: Rosemarie Padovano.
As Elsie de Wolf once said, “I am going to make everything around me beautiful. That will be my life.” It is as if Elsie was writing that specifically for Rosemarie. With a master's degree in sculpture and a bachelor's from the renowned Parsons School of Design, Rosemarie draws on her studies while leveraging her strong creative compass to create memorable and meaningful spaces.
Her brand, Artemisia, is shared with her husband Marcello Marvelli. Marcello is an art historian, curator and antique dealer. Their intention is to create uncomplicated interiors that feel original and collected over time. Artemisia's expression expands beyond unique design services, it is a destination for curated finds for your home.
Featured in Town and Country, New England Home, Vogue and Elle Decor, Artemisia has captured the attention of interior designers and hearts of discerning enthusiasts. Rosemarie’s story is one that will draw you in. Her portfolio of experiences, innate talents and warm personality is the reason success loves to follow her.
In this episode Anne and Rosemarie discuss:
You can find Artemisia at artemisiainc.com and @artemisianyc on Instagram.
Complete show notes are on the Classic & Curious podcast page via styledbyark.com
Where to Find Anne!
Interior Design is loved by so many. It inspires, plays with your senses and captures your imagination.
In this episode, we are delighted to host, renowned Chicago based interior designer, Alexandra Kaehler.
One of the unique elements of Alex’s interior design style is her approach. She prioritizes getting to know her clients from an emotional perspective. Knowing what is happening in the hearts and minds of the people she designs for, invites her talents to create a design that embodies the unique heart of the homeowner. By using color, pattern and a wide range of furniture styles she personalizes every home for the ones that reside there.
Alexandra Kaehler Design has been celebrated in House Beautiful, Vogue, Architectural Digest, and Luxe Interiors & Design just to name a few.
Most importantly, it is Alex’s approachability that has contributed to her stunning success. Her genuine nature stays true to all that she is… this attribute will attract all of the wonder that lies ahead for her beautiful brand.
In this episode, Alex and Anne Discuss
Get inspired by Alex's beautiful design inspirations at alexandrakaehler.com
You can follow Alex Kaehler Design @alexkaehlerdesign
Where to Find Anne!
You can also find complete show notes at styledbyark.com
This episode is filled with Sophisticated Joy! We are excited to be hosting Jen Potter founder of Fete Home.
Fete Home is a beautiful home décor destination known for bringing pattern and color to your home. Fete Home features table linens, pillows and launching this September… you will be delighted to see their new collection of wallpaper and fabrics! Each one of the meticulously crafted patterns exude vibrancy and celebrates a life lived in full color.
Getting to know founder Jen Potter is like meeting an old friend. Her warmth, optimism and approachability is admirable – these attributes also translate to her brand. Jen’s talents emerge from an equally weighted right and left brain strength. She started her career path in the financial industry in NYC. Her operational savviness lead her to Bunny Williams Home where she ultimately became Chief Executive Officer.
Working for the legendary Bunny Williams for 10 years inspired an already creative mind. In 2019, Fete Home emerged. Fete Home has been featured in Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, The New York Times, Hamptons Cottages and Gardens, and Elle Décor just to name a few. There is so much on the horizon for this amazing brand, you will want to share this episode with all decor enthusiasts!
In this episode Anne and Jen discuss:
Complete show notes can be found on styledbyark.com
You can shop Fete Home at fetehome.com
Where to Find Anne!
