INTERVIEW WITH MARK D.SIKES BY ERIC GOLDIE

MARK D. SIKES

Eric Goldie: Chic individuals, impressive spots, and a la mode things.” If that doesn’t seem like the formula for a breathtaking soirée, well, we don’t realize what does. For thoughtful host and interior designer Mark D. Sikes, whom Reese Witherspoon tapped to outline her Draper James store in Nashville, they’re also the motivation and three organizing principles for his well-known lifestyle blog. Mark’s appropriately named new book, Beautiful:

All-American Decorating and Timeless Style, takes his chic, exciting, and in vogue soul considerably further, exhibiting 15 of his most loved design projects. Grab an iconic American cocktail, pull up a rattan seat, and go along with us as Mark, our most loved enthusiast of all-American style, offers everything from his tips for making a house that is warm and inviting for visitors to his must-have tabletop items. Eric Goldie has taken exclusive interview of Mark D.Sikes and explore some interesting facts about his style.

Question: What three words would you use to describe your entertaining style?

Ans. Easy, casual, and relaxed.

Question: What is your preferred way to entertain?

Ans. In the garden, with a small group of close friends, light bites, and simple drinks.

Question: Think about your dream dinner party. Who’s there? 

Ans. I’m dreaming about a table filled with my favorite style icons: Jackie Kennedy, John Kennedy, Jr., President Kennedy, Grace Kelly, Hubert de Givenchy, Cary Grant, Princess Diana, Audrey Hepburn, and Oscar de la Renta.

Question: You’ve designed so many fabulous homes. Is there a design element that you recommend to all of your clients?

Question: What’s the best party you’ve ever been to?

Ans. My recent book party in New York City at John Rosselli Antiques. It was a beautiful evening filled with friends, peers, design icons, and loved ones.

Question: What party in history would you most like to go back in time to attend?

Ans. Truman Capote’s Black And White Ball.

Ans. Antique blue and white ceramics.

Question: Fill in the blank, you know you’ve been to a Mark D. Sikes party when…

Ans. You’ve had too many glasses of rosé and too many chocolate chip cookies.

GETTING TIPSY WITH MARK D. SIKES

Question: What are your tips for designing a home that works well for entertaining?

Ans. Make sure you have lots of chairs and multiple seating areas — they make for better conversation. Indoor rooms that are connected to outdoor spaces and big kitchens are also great for parties.

Question: You describe your designs as timeless. What are some “timeless” entertaining pieces that you think every party host should have in their home?Ans. Big white platters and bowls, votive candle holders, lots of candles, and vases in all sizes.

Question: A home’s entry is the first thing party guests see. What are some things people can do to make their entry appear welcoming?

Ans. A large arrangement of flowers and candlelight.

Question: What’s the one thing people can do to their entertaining space right now to give it a fresh and current look?

Ans. Skirt your dining table with a beautiful fabric.

Question: I’ve read that you don’t use your dining room for dining. Where do you hold your dinner parties?

Ans. We usually set up a buffet in the kitchen and let people perch anywhere they like, although everyone always ends up in the garden.

Question: You have such a great eye for outdoor decor. What are some tips for taking one’s outdoor space from summer to winter?

Ans. Change out your cushions to a different palette, and add new pillows and throws. Neutral colors are great for fall.

Question: The holidays are around the corner. What are your three holiday party must-haves?

Ans. Mistletoe, eggnog, and tons of potted Amaryllis and paper whites.

PLAYING FAVORITES WITH MARK D. SIKES

Question: Dinnerware? Ans. Astier de Villatte

Question: Flatware? Ans. French antique bone

Question: Stemware? Ans. Grandmother’s

Question: Cocktail napkins? Ans. Hemstitch linen

Question: Powder room candle? Ans. Santa Maria Novella

Question: Powder room soap? Ans. Santa Maria Novella

Question: Caterer? Ans. Lulu Powers

Question: Florist? Ans. Myself

Question: Host or hostess gift to give? Ans. Myrtle topiaries

Question: Online shopping resources? Ans. Mr. Porter, Net-a-Porter, Amazon, and 1stDibs