Classic & Curious

What makes a Nancy Meyers interior feel so timeless—and how can we bring that same warmth into our own homes? Annie Meyers-Shyer , the creator and discerning eye behind This Oak House , joins Classic & Curious for a conversation about it all began, her new book and upcoming collaborations. The daughter of acclaimed filmmaker Nancy Meyers, Annie grew up on film sets where beautifully layered interiors became an essential part of the storytelling. Drawing on that influence—and her own fashion career at Harper’s Bazaar and Chanel —Annie shares how she developed an aesthetic that feels both classic and deeply personal. She shares with us Listen for an inspiring look at decorating with character, designing rooms for real life and creating a home with a story uniquely its own. Connect with Annie: @ thisoakhouse , this-oak-house.com Connect with Anne: @ classicandcuriouslife , classicandcurious.com and on Substack: Curiosities by Anne Kokoskie

What if quiet luxury has less to do with what you own—and everything to do with how you make people feel? In this episode, Anne welcomes interior designer Benjamin Deaton, founder and principal of Benjamin Deaton Interior Design and Benjamin Deaton Home, for a thoughtful and delightfully practical conversation about timeless interiors, effortless entertaining, personal style, and the true meaning of quiet luxury. With projects spanning New York, Palm Beach, California, Kentucky, and beyond—including the historic Far Niente Winery in Napa Valley—Benjamin shares how he built his interior design firm by trusting his instincts, tuning out the noise, and staying true to his creative vision. Together, Anne and Benjamin explore how to create a home that feels collected, quiet and eager to be discovered. They also share their secrets for effortless entertaining—from family-style dinners and silver bowls filled with unexpected nibbles to the enduring appeal of pigs in a blanket. Plus, Benjamin reveals his quiet-luxury essentials, the value of buying pieces with a story, why Ralph Lauren’s timeless point of view continues to resonate, and the hotel he returns to again and again. A warm, inspiring conversation about interior design, entertaining at home, personal style, and creating a considered life—one intentional detail at a time. You can follow Benjamin Deaton @ benjamindeatoninteriors and benjamindeatoninteriors .com Connect with Anne: @ classicandcuriouslife , classicandcurious.com and on Substack: Curiosities by Anne Kokoskie

What makes a wedding truly meaningful—and how do you plan one without losing sight of why you are getting married? Lizzie Post, great-great-granddaughter of Emily Post and co-president of the Emily Post Institute, returns to Classic & Curious for a warm, insightful conversation about modern wedding etiquette, meaningful celebrations, and the traditions today’s couples are choosing to keep—or make entirely their own. An accomplished author, speaker, and nationally recognized etiquette expert, Lizzie has shared her thoughtful, modern perspective on the Today show, NBC Nightly News, Fox & Friends, and countless other nationally syndicated programs. She is also co-host of the weekly Awesome Etiquette podcast, where she helps listeners navigate contemporary life with consideration, respect, and honesty. In this episode, Lizzie introduces Emily Post Wedding Stories, her joyful new podcast featuring real couples reflecting on the planning decisions, unexpected mishaps, heartfelt moments, and lessons that shaped their wedding days. She also offers a first look at the completely reimagined Emily Post’s Wedding Etiquette, arriving in February 2027. At the heart of the conversation is one beautifully simple piece of advice: “Do what will make you feel married.” Lizzie shares practical guidance for navigating wedding budgets, family expectations, guest lists, inclusivity, changing traditions, and the pressure to create a “perfect” day. Her wisdom is refreshingly grounded: avoid unnecessary debt, take breaks from planning, consider how the experience affects those around you, and never underestimate the importance of gratitude. Whether you are planning a wedding, helping someone you love prepare for theirs, or simply fascinated by how our traditions continue to evolve, this episode is a thoughtful reminder that etiquette is not about rigid rules. It is about how we make one another feel. Listen for modern wedding-planning advice, timeless Emily Post wisdom, and a celebration of weddings filled with meaning rather than perfection. For more, visit emilypost.com or emilypost.substack.com. Connect with Anne: @ classicandcuriouslife , classicandcurious.com and on Substack: Curiosities by Anne Kokoskie

In this episode of Classic & Curious , Anne welcomes celebrated interior designer and author Eric Ross, founder and principal of Eric Ross Interiors, for a thoughtful conversation about the enduring appeal of traditional design—and how to make it feel relevant, personal and entirely at home today. Eric shares why familiarity lies at the heart of timeless interiors, how collections bring soul and curiosity to a room, and why a beautifully designed home should reveal itself gradually rather than all at once. Drawing from nearly three decades in the industry, he also offers practical guidance for decorating with greater confidence: establish a clear story for your home, resist the urge to incorporate every beautiful idea, experience furniture and materials in person, and give yourself the freedom to bring pieces home, experiment and edit. The conversation also explores Eric’s Southern roots, the designers who shaped his eye, the responsibility of guiding a client and the advice that continues to steady him: “Everything we do is fixable.” Plus, Eric shares a textile house he admires and the mountain retreat where he finds a rare sense of contentment. A warm and inspiring conversation about creating rooms with elegance, ease and enough intrigue to leave us wondering what awaits around the next corner. Eric’s work has been featured in House Beautiful, Southern Home, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, and FLOWER Magazine . He is the author of two design books, including his latest, Embracing Southern Homes . You can follow Eric on Instragram @ ericrossinteriors and web at ericrossinteriors.com Connect with Anne: @ classicandcuriouslife , classicandcurious.com and on Substack: Curiosities by Anne Kokoskie

In this episode of Classic & Curious , Anne Kokoskie sits down with Rosemary Hallgarten, founder of one of the world’s most admired luxury textile houses. A British-born, award-winning textile designer and second-generation craftsperson, Rosemary pioneered the use of alpaca in luxury rugs and fabrics, building an internationally recognized brand known for its extraordinary texture and modern artisanal sensibility. Rosemary shares the story behind her artisan-made rugs, fabrics, throws, and accessories—and her belief that true luxury lies in how thoughtfully and beautifully something is made. Their conversation explores sustainable design, natural fibers, traditional craftsmanship, responsible production, and the importance of creating timeless pieces with soul, purpose, and longevity. For anyone interested in creating a more beautiful and considered home, Rosemary offers an inspiring perspective on choosing fewer, better things—and understanding the human hands, natural materials, and enduring craftsmanship behind them. You can find Rosemary on Instagram @ rosemaryhallgarten and on RosemaryHallgarten.com Connect with Anne: @ classicandcuriouslife , classicandcurious.com and on Substack: Curiosities by Anne Kokoskie

What does it mean to honor someone’s legacy while finding the confidence to create your own? In this deeply moving episode of Classic & Curious , Anne Kokoskie welcomes Dana Ferraro , Principal of Molly Patton Design, for a conversation that extends far beyond beautiful interiors. Following the passing of her dear friend and business partner, Molly Patton, Dana made the extraordinary decision to continue the firm’s work under Molly’s name—a remarkable act of friendship, stewardship, and unwavering devotion. Together, Anne and Dana reflect on the power of creative partnership, overcoming self-doubt, preserving a beloved brand, and building a boutique design practice rooted in the belief that doing the right thing, combined with thoughtful creativity, always endures. Dana shares the deeply personal story behind Molly Patton Design, the lessons she learned from Molly’s life, and how honoring another person’s vision ultimately helped her discover her own. This is an episode about legacy, courage, loyalty, and the quiet strength required to carry something meaningful forward. Whether you’re a creative, entrepreneur, or simply someone who believes in the lasting impact of genuine relationships, Dana’s story is a beautiful reminder that the most enduring work begins with the people who inspire us. In this episode you’ll hear: The heartfelt story behind the founding and continuation of Molly Patton Design. How friendship became the foundation of an enduring creative legacy. Dana’s journey from self-doubt to confident leadership. Why staying intentionally boutique has become the firm’s greatest strength. The values of craftsmanship, trust, and thoughtful design that continue to define every project. Follow Molly Patton Design on Instagram: @ mollypattondesign and find her at mollypattondesign.com Connect with Anne: @ classicandcuriouslife , classicandcurious.com and on Substack: Curiosities by Anne Kokoskie

In this episode of Classic & Curious, Anne sits down with celebrated event designer David M. Handy for a conversation on the art of entertaining, timeless design, and creating meaningful moments that linger long after the last guest leaves. From the founding of Handy & Dallaire Events to the thoughtful curation behind The Event Rental Co., David shares how he and his husband, Donald, built a brand rooted in originality, collaboration, and impeccable hospitality. Together, they explore what it means to create an experience—not just an event. Listeners will walk away with David’s signature entertaining wisdom, from curating the perfect guest list and layering a tabletop with vintage finds and luxury pieces, to crafting playlists that move with the rhythm of the evening and sending guests home with thoughtful parting gifts. Along the way, David reflects on the power of taking chances, why timelessness always wins over trends, and the enduring influence of icons like Ralph Lauren. This episode is an invitation into a world where entertaining is both art and ritual—and where the most memorable gatherings are built on beauty, intention, and connection. Connect with Handy & Dallaire Evnets on IG @ handydallaireevents and explore Handy & Dallaire Events at handydallaireevents.com Connect with Anne: @ classicandcuriouslife , classicandcurious.com and on Substack: Curiosities by Anne Kokoskie

This week, Anne welcomes Ann Huff and Meg Harrington, the visionary duo behind Huff Harrington, for a conversation on how a meeting over lunch in Atlanta grew into one of designs most admired creative partnerships. Ann and Meg share the evolution of their brand — from selling art out of their kitchens to building a multifaceted business spanning galleries, interiors, retail, curated travel, and Parisian renovations. Along the way, they reflect on entrepreneurship, the power of complementary strengths, navigating challenges with grace, and the lessons they’ve learned about building a business rooted in trust, beauty, and resilience. They also dive into the art of curation — how to mix old and new, why craftsmanship matters, and the guiding philosophy behind every piece they source: if you love it, it will work. This episode is an inspiring look at creating a brand with soul, designing with instinct, and building a life — and business — around beauty, story, and connection. You will absolutely find yourself shopping right after your listen! Connect with Huff Harrington @ huffharrington and huffharrington.com Connect with Anne: @ classicandcuriouslife , classicandcurious.com and on Substack: Curiosities by Anne Kokoskie

In this episode, Anne sits down with James Dolenc and Tom Riker, the founders of James Thomas, to explore their unconventional path from corporate careers to building one of Chicago’s most respected residential design studios. James and Tom share the story behind their 23-year partnership, the lessons they’ve learned growing a business together, and why culture has remained at the heart of their firm’s success. Their work has been featured in leading design publications, showcased on Homeworthy and most recently selected for the 50th Anniversary Kips Bay Decorator Show House in New York, one of the design industry’s most prestigious showcases. Along the way, they discuss the importance of kindness in leadership, developing a distinctive brand voice, mentoring the next generation of designers and creating homes that feel deeply personal rather than trend-driven. They also offer their unique perspective on how anyone can discover and express their own “voice” through their personal homes. This episode is a thoughtful conversation about partnership, creativity, and the values that sustain both a design practice and a meaningful life. As with every Classic & Curious episode, the conversation concludes with a collection of inspirations—from favorite hotels and brands to timeless advice and unexpected discoveries—offering a deeper glimpse into the people, places, and ideas that continue to spark curiosity and s​hape a considered life. Connect with James Thomas on IG @ jamesthomasinteriors and JamesThomasInteriors.com Connect with Anne: @ classicandcuriouslife , classicandcurious.com and on Substack: Curiosities by Anne Kokoskie

In this episode, award-winning interior designer Carolyn Kendall, founder of Alcott Interiors, joins Anne for a rich conversation on collected living, Southern hospitality, and the art of creating spaces that tell a story. Known for her refined eye and timeless interiors, Carolyn has been featured in Luxe Interiors + Design, Traditional Home, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, and Homeworthy, and was recently recognized with a Best of Design award from Modern Luxury Interiors. She shares her journey from Southern California to Nashville, why the city’s culture of hospitality shaped both her life and design philosophy, and how meaningful collections — from oyster plates to antique glassware — bring warmth, personality, and depth into a home. Together, Anne and Carolyn explore entertaining in Nashville, layering interiors with intention, avoiding visual overwhelm, the importance of lighting and ambiance, and why the most beautiful homes reflect the people who live within them. If you love thoughtful design, timeless antiques, and the feeling of a home that invites people to gather and stay awhile, this conversation will leave you inspired to see your own spaces with a more curious and intentional eye. Connect with Anne: @ classicandcuriouslife , classicandcurious.com and on Substack: Curiosities by Anne Kokoskie

In this soulful episode of Classic & Curious, Anne sits down with internationally acclaimed jazz trumpeter, composer, and storyteller Dominick Farinacci for a conversation about music, humanity, and the stories that connect us. From growing up in Cleveland to becoming part of Juilliard’s inaugural jazz studies program — under the influence and mentorship of jazz legend Wynton Marsalis and the community of Jazz at Lincoln Center — Dominick shares the experiences that shaped both his artistry and his understanding of music as a universal language. Together, Anne and Dominick explore how music can transport us, create connection, and bring people together across cultures and generations. Dominick reflects on his global experiences, the emotional power of jazz, and how music became a bridge between people and shared human experience. Known for his TED Talk at the Kennedy Center on music, wellbeing, and mental health, Dominick also shares the personal experiences that transformed his work, including his mother’s cancer journey and the creation of Modern Warrior Productions, an immersive storytelling platform centered around resilience, healing, and the power of storytelling through music. At its heart, this episode is about the beauty of storytelling — the kind that makes us slow down, lean in, and linger a little longer at the table. Because whether through music, memory, or shared experience, these are the conversations that remind us what it means to live a full and beautiful life. Connect with Dominick @ Dominicklife Connect with Anne: @ classicandcuriouslife , classicandcurious.com and on Substack: Curiosities by Anne Kokoskie

In this Mother’s Day episode, Anne welcomes Houston-based interior designer Meg Lonergan for a heartfelt conversation about creativity, motherhood and building a life and brand. Meg shares her unconventional path as a self-taught designer, from a childhood rooted in Louisiana tradition to launching her Houston design firm in 2009. She opens up about learning to trust her natural gifts, overcoming the need for outside validation, and rebuilding her business after a season of burnout. Together, Anne and Meg explore what it means to ask for help, protect your energy, create a home that feels deeply personal, and stay connected to the creative passions that shaped you as a child. Meg also shares thoughtful Mother’s Day gift ideas, the brands currently inspiring her, and the hotels she loves to escape to. This episode is a beautiful reminder that motherhood, creativity, and ambition do not always exist in perfect balance, but they can create a life full of meaning, beauty, and belonging. You can connect with Meg @ meglonerganinteriors and meglonerganinteriors.com Connect with Anne: @ classicandcuriouslife , classicandcurious.com and on Substack: Curiosities by Anne Kokoskie

In this episode, Anne sits down with Tanya Rose, founder of Mason Rose and host of the widely celebrated podcast Travel Secret s to explore the deeper meaning behind travel and the stories that stay with us long after we return home. From building a global luxury travel PR agency to launching a podcast with millions of engaged listeners, Tanya shares how storytelling, and connection have shaped her journey. She reveals the six signature questions she asks every guests, from their most unforgettable destination to their most poignant travel memory and why those answers often go far beyond travel itself. Together, they discuss the power of travel - connecting us to people, places, and ourselves—whether through a simple local recommendation, a life-changing first trip, or a deeply personal moment that lingers forever. The conversation moves from practical travel insights to meaningful reflections on style, memory, and what it truly means to experience the world—not as a tourist, but with intention. This is a conversation about more than travel. It’s about connection, storytelling, and living a life well explored. Listen to Travel Secrets Podcast. Connect with Tanya: @ tanyarosesimpson , @ masonrose Connect with Anne: @ classicandcuriouslife , classicandcurious.com and on Substack: Curiosities by Anne Kokoskie

Today's guest is Blake Sams founder of Gregory Blake Sams Events an award-winning event planning firm known for its flawless execution located in Charleston and New York City. Blake's creative talents extend beyond events into interior design, and most recently his signature taste and style can be found in his Charleston shop, Wentworth . His work has been featured in Harper's Bazaar, Veranda, Vogue, and Elle Decor. Together we explore what it means to live beautifully: The most important consideration when planning an event. Ways to create your own entertaining capsule. Rethinking how you select elements for your home. Blake’s favorite pieces from his shop, Wentworth. For Blake, it all comes down to something simple. The people you surround yourself with are the most meaningful detail of any gathering, and for us, that's exactly why this episode is such a delight. Connect with Blake gregoryblakesamsevents .com and @ gregoryblakesamsevents Shop Wentworth: shopwentworth.com and @ wentworthbygbs Connect with Anne: @ classicandcuriouslife , classicandcurious.com and on Substack: Curiosities by Anne Kokoskie

Just beyond New York City, Litchfield County has quietly become one of the most coveted escapes. And at its heart is a destination as thoughtful as it is transporting. In this episode, we step inside Lost Fox Inn with co-founder Eliza Clark, joined by her daughter, designer Arden Wray. Eliza, a former HGTV producer, turned hotelier and designer brings a refined editorial eye and a deep appreciation for storytelling. Her vision is beautifully complimented by the talents of her daughter Arden, co-founder of Byrd Studio, the interior design firm behind the Inns breathtaking aesthetics. Their work has also earned recognition beyond Litchfield County in publications such as Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, Harper's Bazaar, Goop and the New York Times. In this episode … Eliza and Arden share their story of place, beauty and legacy. You are introduced to the Inn’ awarded winning restaurant originating in 1740. Why Litchfield County is one of the hottest spots in the country. Connect with Lost Fox Inn @ lostfoxinn and book your stay at Lostfoxinn.com Connect with Anne @ classicandcuriouslife and classicandcurious.com

What does it really look like to shop for antiques in the Cotswolds—and do it well? In this episode of Classic and Curious, we’re joined by Tammi, founder of Claiborne & Olive, known for helping clients experience the charm of antique shopping in the Cotswolds, sourcing English antiques with confidence, and enjoying the beauty of boutique hotels, farm-to-table food, and thoughtfully planned buying trips along the way. Originally from New Orleans, Tammi has long been drawn to beautiful interiors, architecture, and gardens. What began with flea markets and antique stores while furnishing her first home has evolved into a thoughtful point of view on how antiques bring character and soul into a space. With a background in art and architectural history, she has cultivated a refined eye for bespoke interiors - approach that has resonated with a growing audience, including respected designers such as Cathy Kincaid, Emma Sims Hilditch and Alexandra Kaehler. Together, we talk about: What makes sourcing abroad so memorable How Claiborne & Olive create an experience that makes shopping for English antiques so easy. Tammi’s favorite hotel in the Cotswolds and what it has to offer. From the romance of the Cotswolds to the practicality of buying well, this conversation reflects on how travel, beauty, and intentional living can shape the way we gather, decorate, and live. You can connect with Claiborne & Olive on IG @ claiborneandolive and on claiborneandolive.com Stay connected with Classic and Curious @ classicandcuriouslife and classicandcurious.com

Today on Classic & Curious, I’m joined by AD100 designer Patrick Mele, whose colorful design journey began at Kate Spade and Ralph Lauren before building one of today’s most celebrated interior design firms. Patrick’s work has been featured in leading publications including Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, Frederic, and New York Magazine. He has been named to the prestigious AD100 List and Elle Decor A-List, and was recognized by Vogue as one of the five designers to watch. In today's conversation: We talk about Patrick's design journey and the evolution of his signature style. His vibrant Color Field Collection, and his new launch with Schumacher . His beautifully curated design shop in Greenwich—an extension of his studio, available both in person and online A thoughtful tip for design enthusiasts looking to elevate their own homes with confidence What strikes you immediately about Patrick is his graciousness. There's a warmth and ease in the way he speaks about design that gently draws you into his creative world. It's a quality that feels as natural to him as the beautiful environments he creates. Connect with Patrick at PatrickMele.com and on IG @patrickmele and @ shop_patrickmele Connect with Anne at Classicandcurious.com and on IG @ classicandcuriouslife

There are certain lives that feel like a masterclass in grace — lived with intention, elegance, and a reverent attention to detail. We may know the names, admire the work, study the legacy. But rarely do we glimpse how these individuals truly lived. Today, we are honored to welcome back Linda Jane Holden — author, historian, and thoughtful storyteller. Known for her beautiful tributes to Bunny Mellon in The Garden of Bunny Mellon and Bunny Mellon Style , Linda has a gift for bringing legacy to life. In this episode, she shares something far more personal: her friendship with Hubert de Givenchy . Our conversation moves beyond fashion and into the intimate terrain of character and connection. We reflect not only on the designer who made Audrey Hepburn unforgettable, but on the man behind the maison — the friend. Through Linda’s stories, we discover that his elegance extended far beyond couture. As we close February — and what would have been his 99th birthday — may this conversation remind us that the most enduring elegance is lived intentionally, and that a truly classic life is shaped not only by style, but by friendship and love. Connect with Linda Jane Holden @ lindajaneholden and Linda Jane Holden.com Connect with Anne @ classicandcuriouslife and classicandcurious.com

In this episode, we’re inviting you into the world of Pasquale Et Maurice Home, a destination for antiques, artisanal textiles, home décor, and bespoke interior design services. Rooted in Old World craftsmanship and modern sensibility, the shop is paired with a beautifully curated online store showcasing timeless pieces sourced from across Europe and New England. In this episode: You’ll be introduced to co-founders Lino and Gregory, and discover how their worlds—shaped by Sicily and Provence—have been thoughtfully brought to Connecticut. What makes a room feel collected and how elements from their store will help you tell your story. Learn about their store in Washington, Connecticut that serves as both a design studio and a gathering place—an inspiring hub where antiques, décor, and interiors are grounded in history, patina, and personal meaning. Lino and Gregory’s shared philosophy is woven into every detail: warmth, curiosity, and an open invitation to discover what resonates with you. And in this conversation, you’ll hear how their journey—from Sicily and Provence to New York and New England—continues to shape a world where beauty is intentional, stories matter, and nothing is chosen by chance. Connect: PasqualeEtMauriceHome.com and IG: pasquale_et_muarice_home Connect with Anne IG: @ classicandcuriouslife and classicandcurious.com

Welcome to our 50th episode, a milestone we are proud to celebrate with two designers whose work embodies the very spirit of thoughtful living. We're joined by Gary McBournie and Bill Richards of McBournie Richards, the award-winning residential interior design firm based in New York City and Boston with projects spanning the globe. Their work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, Veranda, House Beautiful and Flower. Their first book, Living Color. A Designer Works Magic with Traditional Interiors, captured the early chapters of their creative partnership. Their forthcoming monograph set for Spring 2027 will highlight more recent projects and the continued evolution of their creative vision. In this episode, Gary and Bill share their perspective on creating a true sense of place - one rooted in history, layered storytelling, and an understanding of how spaces are meant to be lived in. They walk us through their approach while offering practical insight for those looking to thoughtfully bring this sensibility into their own home. Beyond their work, their warmth, wit, and genuine joy shine throughout the conversation. Prepare to be inspired not only by their design philosophy, but by the essence of their authentic spirit. Connect with McBournie Richards @mcbournierichards and michbournierichardshome.com Connect with Anne @ classicandcuriouslife and classicandcurious.com