Sister Parish Transforms The Mayflower Inn Into A Most Merry Country Escape

Christmas in Connecticut?

The Mayflower Inn & Spa is a most magical, charming spot any time of year, but come the holidays, this luxury destination doubles down. The more the merrier!

Eliza Harris, Creative Director of Sister Parish Design, swanned throughout the property's halls, decking them with her quintessentially American touch. Grand garlands, a thoughtfully hung sprig of mistletoe, humming fireplaces dressed with greenery and stockings, an 18-foot tree dripping with red velvet bows and fabric ornaments. A most chic calling card, Sister Parish's beloved Serendipity print, a flash of cranberry stars that rings traditional and timeless, is sprinkled throughout from the foyer to the library to the dining room.

To celebrate the unveiling of the inn's festive new trimmings, the great-granddaughter of design doyenne Sister Parish - who decorated the homes of everyone from Jackie Kennedy and Brooke Astor to Bunny Mellon and Oscar de la Renta - hosted a most merry fête earlier this week. Interior world staples flocked to the country for a cozy night of cocktails, a holiday-themed dinner prepared by the Inn’s new Executive Chef, Jose Ramírez-Ruiz, and a turn about the cheerful space.

Austin Mill, Madeline O'Malley, Spencer Gervasoni

Mieke ten Have, Lilse McKenna

Susan Crater

Alison Levasseur, Lauren McGrath, Suzanne McGrath

Eliza Harris

[Photos by Matt Borkowski]