How I Holiday: Carly Cushnie
In this series, we ask some of our favorite people to tell us about traditions old, new and adapted to fit their unique approach to the holiday season.
Next up, we chat with Carly Cushnie, a New York-based creative director, fashion and interior designer. Carly has established herself as an innovative force in the fashion and design world, her feminine drapery worn by many influential women including Michelle Obama and Beyoncé.
Q:
What’s your most special holiday memory or tradition?
A:
Last year, we went upstate to cut down our Christmas tree and then decorated it all together as a family. It was the first time we did this, and the kids loved it so much that we’ve decided to make it a new yearly tradition.
Q:
How are you setting the table and planning the menu this holiday season?
A:
For me, it's more about making the food we love with beautiful seasonal produce. It doesn't have to be turkey or some kind of cobbler or pie. In the past we've made duck or lamb, and apple walnut cake instead. It can still feel festive without making the same old recipes.
Q:
What’s one detail that means a lot to you at this time of year?
A:
I love making a cocktail and serving it in beautiful glassware. Finding a new cocktail recipe that feels festive and goes with the menu, and getting to use our unique glassware and dinnerware that we've collected over the years is always important to me.
Q:
What’s your favorite quiet moment of the season?
A:
A quiet evening at home after the kids have gone to bed with a cup of tea and a good book.
Q:
My top holiday cooking, entertaining + decor tip:
A:
Do as much as you can the day before in terms of prep. I have everything chopped and prepped and ready to go. It makes the day so much easier. And I always like to keep my decor low to the table—the easy flow of conversation and the passing of food and beverages is paramount, so I don't like decor to interrupt this flow (it should just add to it).
