I get the feeling that maybe the very private Deeda Blair probably didn’t want to write a book but I’m very glad that someone talked her into it. And she realized that it was a perfect way to raise money for charity which is where the proceeds are going.

There are very few truly elegant people in this world and Deeda Blair: Food, Flowers & Fantasy published by Rizzoli today gives us peek into her life, her apartment, her inspiration, her entertaining, and her address book, in addition to places that have inspired her fantasy dinner parties. The six “fantasy meals,” include menus, recipes, table settings, and floral arrangements inspired by the people and places that have contributed to the evolution of Blair’s own style and experience as a hostess. The best tidbit is that she uses handkerchiefs from Charvet in Paris as napkins. Now that is chic.

If you enjoyed my Table Setting Etiquette and Dining Manners post last week, this book is for you and everyone on your holiday gift list.

Deeda Blair’s dining tables in New York photographed by Ngoc Minh Ngo.  Photos: Courtesy of Rizzoli New York.