There is more to a legendary property than pedigree or architectural pizazz. It’s also about the parties, people and things you plan to fill it with…the stuff of legends. Previews Inside Out recently caught up with Dara Caponigro, editor-in-chief of Veranda magazine, who is hosting the exclusive finale party for LEGENDS 2013 at the La Cienega Design Center. We asked her to give us the inside scoop on party planning and her ideas for refined living.
Previews Inside Out You’re hosting the finale party this year…can you give us a sneak peek of what attendees can expect?
Dara Caponigro Veranda has hosted the Legends closing night party for the last few years, and it is a party not to be missed: so many creative people, lots of good energy, a real celebration of the world of design. We’ve planned an incredible event with our partners Sherle Wagner, which will include amazing food and some special surprises, so stay tuned.
Previews Inside Out What’s the most important thing to keep in mind when hosting a luxurious gala?
Dara Caponigro When hosting an event, never run out of food or drink and always welcome everybody with a warm smile. It may seem obvious, but as a host or hostess, it’s your job to make everyone feel welcome.
Previews Inside Out Switching gears, the theme of this year’s LEGENDS event is “Time Capsule.” What’s your advice to homeowners who want to infuse a sense of the past, present and future into a room?
Dara Caponigro If you want to infuse a sense of the past, present and future into a room, here’s a no fail recipe: invest in new, good quality upholstery in classic forms that won’t go out of style. Mix it with some beautiful antiques, add a dash of modern art and voila, you will have a beautiful room that’s timeless, but still interesting.
Previews Inside Out When decorating a new space, where do you typically start?
Dara Caponigro When decorating a new space, start with the walls, floors and architecture. Good bones are most important. Everything else you can fill in over time.
Previews Inside Out Where are your some of your favorite go-to spots for unique luxury vintage finds?
Dara Caponigro Of course, I go on 1stdibs. I have a wonderful Swedish corner cupboard and two vintage black leather butterfly chairs from the site. I also love shopping at local antique shops, fleamarkets, tag sales, etc. and I always plan my travel around going to the local fleamarket of my destination. I get an enormous kick out of finding the one good thing amidst a bunch of junk. New and used are both luxurious. Old things are wonderful because they tell a story and they are unique. New things are wonderful because they can capture the imagination and make you think and feel in a whole new way.
