← The Weekender

    THE WEEKENDER · THE CURRENT ISSUE NO.04

    House Party

    Good rooms. Good drinks. Better company.

    House Party, the approved cover photograph for The Weekender Issue 04.

    Publisher’s Note

    Come on in. The lights are on, something good is chilling, and there’s always room for one more. This week: the little details that turn a house into the place everyone wants to be.

    — Christian Shane Dougherty

    The First Pour: photograph for the Bar Cart Edit.

    The Bar Cart

    Make It a Double

    Great stemware, a substantial rocks glass, a proper ice bucket, and one beautiful decanter. A considered setup beats a crowded shelf.

    Shop the Bar Cart Edit →

    The Host List

    Five Things Before the Doorbell

    Five Things Before the Doorbell, the approved Host List photograph.
    1. The drinks. Chill the wine, fill the ice bucket, and have the first round ready.
    2. The music. Set the playlist before guests arrive. Nobody wants to watch you DJ.
    3. The lighting. Dim the overheads, switch on the lamps, and set the mood.
    4. The food. Have something delicious ready to serve. A little sauce on your apron just adds character.
    5. The attitude. Relax, pour yourself a drink, and remember: nobody came to inspect your house.

    House Pour

    The First Round

    Offer a crisp white, a comfortable red, one signature cocktail, and a thoughtful nonalcoholic option. Keep the first pour effortless.

    Seasonal roofline lighting by Christmas Bros in Chadds Ford.

    Light It Up

    A Little Glow Goes a Long Way

    Christmas Bros joins our look at exterior lighting, entrances, and that first seasonal sparkle. Think atmosphere, not December decorations.

    A CITY TO COAST PARTNER

    VAI SERVICES

    Comfort is always in style.

    Thoughtful service. A more comfortable home.

    Meet Jamie Vai · Discover His Story ↗

    This Weekend

    October 16–18, 2026

    Emerald City at Longwood Gardens.
    Photo: Longwood Gardens / Becca Mathias

    For a more enchanting evening closer to home: Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square presents Emerald City Weekend, October 16–18, from 5–9 PM. Saturday’s “Journey to Oz” illuminated fountain performance begins at 8:15 PM, featuring music from The Wizard of Oz, The Wiz, and Wicked. Timed Gardens admission is required; optional reserved seating is $22 per person in addition to admission.

    The Weekender

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