The clock's almost up. Another year comes to a close. Here were some of our bright spots along the way. To start, how about a Pomegranate Prosecco cocktail courtesy of The Times?
After a boozy brunch at home, it was off to high tea in Atlanta, where sixty of our favorite Southern bloggers like Layla, Rhoda, Patti, Erika, Tami, Jen and Mary Kay, joined us for an afternoon of beauty and inspiration at framing company Larson-Juhl, hosted by CEO Steve McKenzie. But even if you didn't get a chance to join us, there are plenty of videos online from the talk I gave. Here's a tip on playing with the scale of artwork over a bed.
It was Larson-Juhl moulding, too, around that abstract print in our window for the Big Window Challenge, representing ELLE DECOR. Talk about a roller coaster ride: One day up; the next day down. In the end, we beat two excellent competitors, and we couldn't have done it without you!
But the celebration didn't last long. An editor from The Nest had called midway through the competition with a couple in need of a budget bedroom makeover. Here's what the room looked like before we began.
And here's how it turned out! Click twice to enlarge.
From there, it was off to Kansas City to set a spring-inspired table at Halls, celebrating twenty years of Dining By Design. Remember the 14 dozen eggs I drilled, skewered, blew and glittered, all in our room at the Raphael?
What I do for drama.
Here again is how it all came together.
After a workshop on etching hurricanes at Creative Candles with Lara, Patricia, Suzanne, Karena and others...
...followed by a spin with readers through the Rose Bowl flea market in Pasadena...
Jaithan and I headed back to New York, where spring had burst into bloom.
But we weren't home long before it was off to Savannah for SCAD Style, a series of events on style and design at the Savannah College of Art and Design. Here again is the table we set for a special dinner, hosted by President Wallace, for visiting artists and their guests. The linens, you might recall, were custom silk screened by the students of Working Class Studio. Their hard work, talent and creativity inspire us now more than ever.
Back in Greenwich, what better way to follow an elaborate dinner for 30 than an intimate Mother's Day brunch for six, published in Serendipity?
After a practice run at Linie's house, wowing her friends with time-saving tricks for easy entertaining with style...
...we took the show on the road, all the way to Chicago, where Debra filled a sold-out house of a hundred for an entertaining event of epic proportions. Think I'm exaggerating? Here's a progress shot of the edible landscape Michele, Jaithan and the rest of my tireless crew created, using hosta leaves in concrete vessels from Debra's store Scentimental Gardens in Geneva.
And here it is all done!
There's that drama again. If it looks like I was going a little crazy, I was.
Just in case you couldn't join us, here's a fun recap courtesy of our friend and budding filmmaker, Gracie Engle.
And finally, to round out the first half of 2010, here's our favorite table of the year, a lush, peony-pink setting for A Date with a Plate, benefiting the Noreen O'Neill Foundation for Melanoma Research.
Ah, those hot pink chairs!
Back soon with Part 2 and until then, Happy Almost New Year's, everyone!
Oh Eddie, How I have missed you and Jaithan! Please come back to KC soon! We love you guys here. It looks like you had a lovely and eventful year. I hope 2011 brings even more success and beauty to you both.
Posted by: Suzanne | January 07, 2011 at 02:01 PM
You have had a year like no other...oh, and wait, that was 1/2 year! Are you tired yet? :)
Janell
Posted by: Janell Beals | January 05, 2011 at 12:27 AM
What an amazing year so far Eddie! I can't wait to see what's in store for you in 2011!
Posted by: Shannon @ What's Up Whimsy | January 04, 2011 at 09:44 AM
Boy, that was fun looking over all of the images from the year! So much fabulousness -- fabulousness galore!! You've been just a treat to follow, Eddie, and I look forward to seeing what beauty you bring to 2011!! Cheers!
Posted by: sandy@oohlafroufrou | January 03, 2011 at 09:21 PM
I have been on 5 blogs today...all of whom had a photo of you! I guess I missed some fun in ATL.! What fun! Come to Florida and share some of your inspiration! Great blog glad to find it! Have a great new year!
Posted by: Tracey @7294cottageway.blogspot | January 03, 2011 at 07:10 PM
Just discovered you through Houzz and ideabooks- and then saw your Bloomindales window and this gorgeous pink and orange table setting.Fantastic!!! Hope you have a wonderful new year and may you have many more succesful ventures.
Posted by: Modern Country Lady | January 03, 2011 at 12:45 PM
What a beautiful life you two have carved out for yourselves! Thank you for sharing it with us via your blog (and many other ways) this year:) Look forward to following your adventures in 2011!
xoxo
Mary Grace
PS I included a photo of you both on my year-review on my blog. The Rose Bowl flea market trip was one of the highlights of my year!
Posted by: Mary-Grace | January 03, 2011 at 12:37 PM
You had a really busy and great year...More power and you are truly an inspiration:)
Posted by: Ann | January 02, 2011 at 10:45 PM
Happy new 2011! Best wishes
Posted by: Design Elements | January 02, 2011 at 03:00 PM
A wonderful look back on the year! You two have accomplished so much! Happy, Healthy and Prosperous 2011!
Posted by: suzanne@cestsuzanne | January 01, 2011 at 09:19 PM
Happy New Years to the both of you! Looking forward to more amazing projects!
XOXO
Katie
Posted by: Katie Gallimore | January 01, 2011 at 06:47 PM
Your blog is a truly fun distraction / learning site! I can't wait to see what you have in store for 2011...K
Posted by: Kathy | January 01, 2011 at 06:28 PM
Congratulations on the amazing year. I'm going to have to try that pomegranate prosecco recipe! Yum!
Posted by: Amy from china shepherdess | January 01, 2011 at 12:29 PM
Hello Facebook Friend! I love coming by and seeing all of the fabulous work that you create. The Blue Egg Tree! Amazing! I just just did a project with sparkles to cover trucks for a party. What a mess, but so worth the end results. I hope to get the photos posted at some point. Thank you so much for sharing your talent. You inspire me to keep growing my design, styling, and web site business. Kudos! I would love to interview you at some point for a new magazine I will be working on.
Posted by: Linda | January 01, 2011 at 11:16 AM
Eddie and Jaithan, Thank you for being such a fabulous source of inspiration! You are both so genuine and generous. My home wouldn't look and feel so great without your help:) Happy New Year! I look forward to all your new ideas. XO
Posted by: lizziefitz | January 01, 2011 at 10:25 AM
Eddie and Jaithan-
Raise a glass to your adventures past and future and a Happy New Year to you both!
Loretta
Posted by: Loretta Fontaine (APPLESandRUBIES) | December 31, 2010 at 11:20 PM
Happy New Year Guys.....
All the best,
Kathy :)
Posted by: Kathy :) | December 31, 2010 at 06:55 PM
Dear Eddie and Jaithan...thank you so very much for taking us all around with you on your beautiful and delightfully "drama" filled design escapades! Your work inspires and thrills, and the way you continually give through the teaching and sharing of your gifts is truly remarkable!
The glitter eggs will go down in history...
Wishing you both a Happy New Year filled with more creativity than you ever thought could be possible!
xo Jessica~
Posted by: Jessica | December 31, 2010 at 03:45 PM
That's only half of it. Looks like you had an amazing and prosperous year!
Happy 2011.
Best,
Steve
Posted by: Steve@UrbanCottage | December 31, 2010 at 12:39 PM
Looking forward to what you create in 2011!
Happy New Year Eddie & Jaithan!
xo Cathy
Posted by: Stitchfork | December 31, 2010 at 10:55 AM
You had such an amazing year filled with so many grand events. The tea at Larson-Juhl was so wonderful and something I was thrilled to be a part of. 2011 is shaping up to be a year of many great things and I hope you guys will be a part of them once again. Thank you for the mention.
Happy New Year!
xoxo,
Jen
Posted by: Jennifer | December 31, 2010 at 09:05 AM
Eddie and Jaithan-
You are amazing and continue to inspire me with each post. I can't wait to see what is to come from you in 2011. Wishing you both all the best!
- Katie
Posted by: Katie | December 31, 2010 at 12:44 AM
What a year for you two! I had a blast at the wow event - so many fabulous ideas - and the edible landscape was stunning!
I have to agree that my favorite tablescape of all this year is definitely that amazing pink and orange one you did.
I cannot wait to see what you guys do for our deck!
Posted by: beth | December 31, 2010 at 12:41 AM
Wow so much beauty you created in just one year....oh wait, there is MORE in part two? Seriously Eddie, you are amazing and I can't wait for what you are going to create next. Hugs and all the best in 2011!
Posted by: La Boheme | December 30, 2010 at 08:29 PM
What a year! You two are AMAZING. One of my 2010 highlights was finally meeting you two in person ... and, of course, rocking out in Lauren's van in High Point! ;-)
xoxo,
Traci
Posted by: traci zeller designs | December 30, 2010 at 03:01 PM
You guys sure had a busy year, nice to be able to accompany you on these trips and adventures even if it's from my laptop.
Can't wait for 2011! bigger and better my friends, bigger and better!
Cheers to 1.1.11
Posted by: abby jenkins | December 30, 2010 at 02:02 PM
Eddie and Jaithan,
I think the Tea at our offices and the Big Window Challenge were some of my favorite moments of 2010. We have to figure out ways to work together more in 2011. Happy New Year to you both and congratulations on a successful 2010. Thanks for all the inspiration.
Posted by: Stephen McKenzie | December 30, 2010 at 08:31 AM
Hi Eddie! I know the pink table was your favorite...but that blue Easter table at Halls is truly a work of art. My head just swims at the thought of blowing out and glittering all those eggs! The amount of work that went into that table is truly awe-inspiring. Its magnificent.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
liz
Posted by: Liz | December 30, 2010 at 07:08 AM
Excellently written article, if only all bloggers offered the same content as you, the internet would be a much better place. Please keep it up!
Posted by: stamping parts | December 30, 2010 at 01:40 AM
Eddie and Jaithan that last table has been my favorite as well!
From here on there is no turning back!!
All the best in the New Year!
xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena
Posted by: Karena | December 30, 2010 at 12:56 AM
So many pretty spaces I don't know where to start! Beautiful work you do! Happy New Year!
Posted by: Jesse {GoodGirlGoneGlad} | December 29, 2010 at 11:31 PM
Happy New Year Eddie and Jaithan!
xoxo
Caroline
Posted by: Caroline Simas | December 29, 2010 at 06:28 PM
The magic, beauty and inspiration you created in just the first half of this year is more than most of us accomplish in a lifetime. What an honor and a thrill to have been part of the ride!
We all await what tricks you have up your sleeves for 2011.
xoxo, Elizabeth
Posted by: Pretty pink tulips | December 29, 2010 at 04:45 PM
OMg how did I miss some of those tables - that blue one with the eggs. I'm still dying over the pink one. OH...from the moment I met you on Top Design LOL - we met through the TV - I knew you were the real deal. You and Jaithan are the best...you inspire me and can't wait to keep reading all the fun things your going to do.
Posted by: Ann | December 29, 2010 at 01:11 PM
I loved looking back with this post! My 8 yr old daughter was next to me and asked me "Who is Eddie Ross?" I then told her what you do and as I did I showed her the glittered eggs on the tree centerpiece. She said "Wow! His mother must be really proud of him!"
Thought that was cute and wanted to share. Happy New Year! Can't wait to see what you and Jaithan come up with in 2011.
Posted by: Jenn-Lee at Moments | December 29, 2010 at 12:59 PM
E+J-we were so delighted to be part of the ride. Whew, 2010 blew by. Wishing you all the best as this year comes to an end and looking toward 2011. Happy (almost) New Year!
Posted by: Pam | December 29, 2010 at 12:28 PM
I'm exhausted just reading your exploits. Looking forward to a new year.
Posted by: Lucindaville | December 29, 2010 at 11:54 AM
I don't think I will ever get over how busy you guys are. Still so thankful that I got the opportunity to meet you both. Best wishes for the coming New Year. May it be better than the last.
Posted by: Amanda | December 29, 2010 at 11:38 AM
Dearest Eddie and Jaithan,
What a wonderfully exhausting year this has been for you! May you enjoy continued success and much happiness in 2011. You are so deserving!
xoxo
Evy
Posted by: Evelyn Weiss | December 29, 2010 at 10:57 AM
Love the twitter pic of your snowy house.
Posted by: Pat Smith | December 29, 2010 at 10:40 AM
Looking forward to all your inspiration for the coming year....I think you guys should just move in with me and all my problems would be solved! Happy new year!
Posted by: diane | December 29, 2010 at 10:35 AM
Just brilliant...still lovin' that bedroom on a budget you designed!!! It's all gorgeous actually!!
Posted by: Danielle | December 29, 2010 at 10:35 AM
The date with a plate is still my all time favorite table scape. The colors and details are just perfect! Have a wonderful New Year E+J!
Posted by: Brandi | December 29, 2010 at 09:33 AM
So many beautiful and clever ideas! Thank you for sharing your creativity and talent with us.
Posted by: Sara Jane | December 29, 2010 at 08:40 AM
Eddie I nearly kissed the screen! There has been so many wonderful ventures in 2010! You are always so generous and inviting in your posts and the inspiration never ends. Thank you so much for all that you have given us during this year. I so look forward to many more in 2011 and wish you and Jaithan the all the best.
Hugs from Sydney
x Charlotta
Posted by: Charlotta | December 29, 2010 at 08:28 AM
You are such an inspiration! It was fun to look back through some of your projects for 2010. I look forward to what you'll come up with in 2011!
Posted by: Paula | December 29, 2010 at 07:52 AM
It was so nice to meet you! Thanks for the mention! xoxo Keep up the fab work!
Posted by: Tami | December 29, 2010 at 03:55 AM
Cheers to you! I enjoyed your activities in 2010 a lot. Looking forward to Part II and 2011 with Eddie Ross.
Posted by: Paula | December 29, 2010 at 03:50 AM
ok I am tired and you are now doing part 2...I love everything you do...xx peggybraswelldesign.com
Posted by: peggy braswell | December 28, 2010 at 09:48 PM
What a fabulous year! I'm liking the idea of a boozy brunch. Wishing you a wonderful new year. Can't wait to see your beautiful creations.
Posted by: Lulu | December 28, 2010 at 09:39 PM
You and Jaithan deserve all the amazing opportunities that have come your way. Opportunities have come your way because you fellas are absolutely amazing, talented and constantly leave onlookers in awe!
Posted by: Lisa | December 28, 2010 at 08:23 PM
What a fabulous post!!! I am in LOVE with the egg tree. I see blown and glittered eggs in my future. You guys are so talented can't wait to see what is in store in 2011! Happy New Year!!
Posted by: Carrie Waller | December 28, 2010 at 07:45 PM
Congratulations on a fantastic year! Happy New Year to you both!
Posted by: Laura Casey Interiors | December 28, 2010 at 07:38 PM
eddie luv!
perfect verbage for the WOW EVENT; "epic", "think i m exaggerating!?" "crazy", "drama"......so much fun with you both; laughing, racing about, hauling, etc, etc.......... when should we do it again?
e+j, seriously........what an amazing year (first half) you have inspired so many. each post is new, fresh and original. get some rest....your fans can't wait to see what you do and what heights you reach in 2011.
much love,
debra
Posted by: debra phillips | December 28, 2010 at 07:37 PM
Wow - were I not so enthralled with all your fabulous designs, I would be exhausted traveling vicariously with you!! But no wonder your work is in such demand - it's all spectacular. I'd never seen the fabulous table from Hall's - really just gorgeous. And I have the same blue opaline goblets that you used at Elizabeth's party - will have to use them to greater effect from now on!!
Posted by: quintessence | December 28, 2010 at 07:18 PM
Wow, what a wonderful year! Thank you so much for being so inspiring...
Posted by: Kelly | December 28, 2010 at 06:45 PM
Mull some wine and put your feet up!
You deserve it!
Such beautiful, inspiring work!
Best wishes to you both for a wonderful new year.
Posted by: Pamela | December 28, 2010 at 06:18 PM
Table of the year!!! AMAZING!!! Will you be attending HIgh Point market in April?
Posted by: Johnna Dobbs | December 28, 2010 at 05:51 PM
For me, 2010 will be forever linked to the year Eddie + Jaithan came into my life. Precious, fun, priceless. Love you both! xoox
Posted by: Patti Davis | December 28, 2010 at 05:46 PM
happy new years to you both!
one of my favorites from your recap was the SCAD dinner table setting! beautiful!
can't wait to see what you bring us in 2011!!
Posted by: Michael - Innkeeper | December 28, 2010 at 05:21 PM
That last table is adorable! Perfect for an off-kilter bridal shower.
Posted by: Briana | December 28, 2010 at 05:08 PM
What an exciting year you have had........here's to another wonderful happy year to you and Jaithan.
Posted by: Ann Chamberlain | December 28, 2010 at 04:50 PM
Hey Eddie, love your blog. Missed the event with Debra in Geneva/St. Charles, but hope you'll come back in the future. Question... where did you get the drapes in the room in your first NYT photo? I have a very similar room in my house and would like to do something similar. Thanks much, Carey
Posted by: Carey VQ | December 28, 2010 at 04:39 PM
What a fabulous year! You have worked so hard and have so much to show for it. That's the good news! Happy New Year to both you and Jaithan. Oh and I love your tool kit. I think I'll add a melon baller to mine as well.
Posted by: Mona Thompson | December 28, 2010 at 04:35 PM
E & J!! Wow, I am tired just reading what all you have done and I know there was even more than that in real life!!! You are an amazing duo, that is for sure, love you both,kathysue
Posted by: Kathysue | December 28, 2010 at 04:20 PM
I'm in awe. I want your life! LOL, I do like my own, but I envy your abilities, the opportunities you have and create, and the ability to travel like that. The fun you must have (I know, frustrations, too) and the interesting people you must meet! I can only imagine how hard it was to prepare all of those sparkly eggs -- and so worth it for that effect -- simply gorgeous! I hope for you and Jaithan the most blessed New Year! I'm looking forward to seeing it all! Carol
Posted by: carol@sofasandsage.com | December 28, 2010 at 03:55 PM
Just reading part one makes me exhausted. You will need to take your vitamins in 2011.
Posted by: Mrs. Blandings | December 28, 2010 at 03:31 PM
Well I have never seen a more beautiful and dramatic table than the blue glitter egg table! Wowsers! I am in awe of the idea giant behind this table. You rock!
Posted by: amy@maisondecor | December 28, 2010 at 03:15 PM
What a year for you two! ANd it is ALL drool worthy. Thanks for being such and inspiration, and I look forward to what the New Year will bring!
Cheers!
Gretchen O.
Posted by: Gretchen O | December 28, 2010 at 03:10 PM
Dayum...now I just feel like a slug!
I was looking for that huge veggie table you did for inspiration for a party recently! It is gorgeous!
Posted by: linda @ Lime in the coconut | December 28, 2010 at 02:33 PM
What a great year you had EDDIE!!! I loved seeing all that you did from Blogland! You are a true inspiration to me and I can't wait to see what 2011 has in store....
All the best to you,
Cindy
xo
Posted by: Design Love | December 28, 2010 at 02:18 PM
I ate up every picture! You are so fun to follow!
Posted by: Wendy O | December 28, 2010 at 02:01 PM
OK, that pomegranate cocktail sounds delicious! I missed those glitter eggs and can you say WOW? Love what you did with them. Looks like you had a very busy year racking up those frequent flier miles. I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us next year. Wishing you and Jaithan the very Happiest of New Year!
Posted by: Acquired Objects | December 28, 2010 at 01:57 PM
my head doth verily spin...
dayum...
Posted by: Tracy | December 28, 2010 at 01:51 PM
j'adore! what a wonderful year!
Posted by: belle on heels | December 28, 2010 at 01:26 PM
What a phenomenal year you've had! So well deserved. Looking forward to Part 2 of your recap! Happy {almost} New Year!
Posted by: Marianne - Style For Living | December 28, 2010 at 01:21 PM
what a great year! I'm going to have to try that cocktail from the NY Times article for my NYE party!
Posted by: Kate | December 28, 2010 at 01:14 PM