If you find yourself in Connecticut this Friday, treat yourself to a day of design. Begin the day with the Designer Breakfast where Mary McDonald will talk about how she creates glamorous interiors.  I just saw Mary down in High Point and she is heading back from Houston where she did a book signing. Woosh, this is one busy/traveling lady. Then head out on a tour of some of the prettiest homes where I grew up in Fairfield County's historic Greenfield Hill, charming seaside town Southport and cultural center, Westport. Since the tour always falls on a Friday, I will miss it, so if you go, share what you saw. 

Then close out your day of design in one of the tour homes with a cocktail at Toast The Tour. The day benefits The Near and Far Aid, a wonderful charity my mom has long been involved in. It supports and funds those living at risk, elder care and the homeless in Fairfield County. For tickets and locations click here. The media sponsor Connecticut Cottages and Gardens is supporting the event, and it is great to see magazines get behind local charities in this way. Head out for a day of blooming gardens and gracious home, you will be so glad you did.