About Last Week: A Stylish Book Launch

An iconic trio: Ted Kennedy Watson, Barbara McLaughlin, and Maryann Jordan. Photo by Daphne Youree Photography.

Barbara McLaughlin and Maryann Jordan co-hosted a beautiful night of cocktails in the garden at the McLaughlin’s NYC home in honor of the launch of friend and entertaining genius Ted Kennedy Watson’s new book Ted Kennedy Watson’s Guide To Stylish Entertaining.

Step inside the ultimate celebration inspired by Ted and complete with Barbara’s flair, below.

What They Wore:

Friends mingle around in the garden complete with personalized napkins after Ted’s own style. Photos by Daphne Youree Photography.

A Drinks Tray: In his book Ted Kennedy Watson’s Guide To Stylish Entertaining, Ted claims “A proper drink setup can be a thing of beauty.” Barbara delivered with one of Ted’s beautifully crafted Veuve Clicquot St-Germain spritz – recipe below –, carefully chosen wine, and sparkling water.

How To Make A Veuve Clicquot St-Germain Spritz:

Fill a tall or good sized glass with ice.

Add 2 oz. Veuve Clicquot Champagne.

Add 1 1/2 oz. St-Germain elderflower liqueur.

Add 2 oz. club soda.

Stir.

Add a big zest of lemon.

Enjoy!

A hint of citrus: Barbara’s affinity for lemons is a chic flourish to the entryway.

Citrus Love: Barbara’s affinity for lemons pairs perfectly with Ted’s love of citrus for parties. He recommends hosting a gathering around citrus when it is at its most plentiful. Last night, not only did the drinks have a hint of citrus in them, but the decor did as well. Think: potted plants with lemon decorations.

More time to entertain: Ted and Barbara know the more thoughtful the food, the more time to spend with friends. Photos by Daphne Youree Photography.

The Gift Of Food: As Ted Kennedy Watson says in his book, “The point is to enjoy the time with our friends and not be stuck in the kitchen cooking.” Barbara curated the most delicious selection of hors devours for this festive fête – chicken curry with coconut flakes, mouth-watering zucchini chips, delectable pigs in a blanket, and a refreshing vegetable plate.

Gracious hosts: Barbara and Maryann celebrate a successful soirée. Photo by Daphne Youree Photography.

Men of the hour: Ted Kennedy Watson and his husband Ted toast to a wonderful night. Photo by Daphne Youree Photography.

Breaking Bread: The best part of entertaining is spending time with those you love, as Ted and Barbara know well.