E!: What’s your secret to having the perfect atmosphere for a holiday party?
KH: I started decorating in November because it doesn’t all go up in one day. I’ve been collecting for 40 years, and it really shows. I have an incredible collection of vintage decorations, and I use everything but the kitchen sink.
I even have toys from when I was little, like my baby shoes on the tree in the library. I also include my children’s toys, which add such a warm, nostalgic feeling to the room. If you’re in town, you must come see it. Every room has a different vibe.
I make sure there’s plenty of food, and I like everything to look pretty. I do this lady apple and green apple salad with pomegranates for color—I’m a pomegranate nut. I love pomegranate martinis, and I also do a candy cane martini, a gum drop martini, and anything else you want. I’ve even got a champagne vending machine, which people love. For the food, I keep it cozy with things like pigs in a blanket and little burgers.
E!: Some of us stress about holiday preparation. Does starting early make it feel like a more relaxing experience?
KH: I just read something the other day that said people who start decorating earlier are happier—and I believe it because I am. I’m a retailer at heart. I had my own holiday store, plus gifts, antiques, and all of that, and we celebrated every holiday. The day after Halloween, my team and I would start getting the store ready.
