Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice

Vintage silver platters laden with decadent chocolate delights and savory cheeses are scattered about Barb Combs’ traditionally elegant living room. Glittering candlelight bounces off the sparkly votives illuminating the festive red-striped glasses filled to the brim with specialty martinis. And roses, roses and more roses, their sherbet hues of raspberry, yellow and pink perfectly accenting the décor, leave no doubt that this is a girlie gathering.

“I thought that having a ‘girls’ night in’ party around Valentine’s Day was a great way to express to my friends how much their friendships mean to me,” says Barb. 

So, with visions of the perfect celebration, Barb called upon David Bailey, owner of Bailey’s Chocolate Bar in Lafayette Square, to create a memorable and delectable chocolate and cheese extravaganza. “For this party,” explains Barb, “I wanted to do something casual, yet fun and pampering. It was important to me that everything was prepared in advance, so that I could actually enjoy the time with my friends, sitting by the fire and talking.” With that as her directive, Chocolate Bar Executive Chef Robin Murphy knew just what to do.

“My goal was to create an appetizing array of desserts coupled with a savory sampling of artisanal cheeses and spicy nuts,” says Chef Robin. “We created petite, yet ornate, bite-sized portions with a wide variety of flavors, running the gamut from sweet to savory. Chocolate and cheese are ideal complements. And, of course, we included a mouthwatering menu of chocolate martinis! This was to be a ladylike presentation, yet one that packed a tasty punch.”

Barb enjoys planning parties, and she and her husband, Art, often entertain friends at their classic Central West End home. “Our home is 98 years old," explains Barb, “and is fabulous for entertaining. I love to use silver serving pieces, crystal and lots of candles for my parties. They create such an elegant atmosphere. That’s definitely the look I was going after for my ‘girls’ night in.’”

Flowers are also important to Barb. “I think flowers add a welcoming touch to any occasion,” she says. “Sometimes I even place fresh flowers right on the serving trays when I’m entertaining.” Scott Hepper, master floral designer for Carriage House Florals at Diane Breckenridge Interiors, created gorgeous botanical confections in a rainbow of traditionally feminine pink, raspberry and yellow. Varying heights and bouquet sizes added to the striking visual interest.

Needless to say, Barb’s friends knew they were special the moment they walked in the door. “Barb really knows how to make you feel important,” says party guest and longtime pal Amy Willcut. “This was such a wonderful evening. Everything Barb did was so thoughtful, from the chic printed invitations (no Evites for this girl!) to the delicious desserts and the beautiful flowers. She even gave each of us an adorable sweet take-home gift.”

Neighbor Ann Greenspan couldn’t agree more. “What’s more fun than getting a bunch of girls together to laugh, share memories and create new ones that we’ll treasure forever? Of course, the chocolate martinis didn’t hurt either!”

RESOURCES
Catering by Executive Chef Robin Murphy and owner David Bailey of Bailey's Chocolate Bar, www.baileyschocolatebar.com.

Floral arrangements by Scott Hepper, master designer, Carriage House Florals at Diane Breckenridge Interiors, www.breckenridgeinteriors.com, www.scotthepper.com.

Sweet and salty chocolate pretzels by Sue Smith of sincerely sue, sue@sbcglobal.net.