Anyone who knows me knows that I love hand embroidery. I've been collecting pieces for more than 20 years, and my passion for embroidery shows no sign of waning. It's an obsessional kind of thing.

Morocco has an incredible embroidery tradition, and I was crazy about the idea of having a Moroccan dining/party tent at Peacock Pavilions inspired by old embroideries of the mysterious Moroccan city of Fes. The original pieces of these Fes embroideries are, sadly, more than my wallet can bear. But no matter. I chose the color scheme and then I sent uber-talented designer Melanie Royals of Royal Design Studio some inspiration. She whipped up several designs for me to choose from. The one I selected is so lovely it makes me want to weep.

Here's a little glimpse.

I designed the Moroccan tent with architect husband Chris -- it took weeks to make! Then Melanie designed a series of stencils that fit together like a gigantic puzzle. Using the stencils, the designs would be painted on the interior of the tent. The tent is double layered so that the painting is protected.

Here's a stencil:

And another stencil taped to the window of the tent.

I loved every single Peacock Painter whom Melanie brought on her trip to paint my Moroccan tent. I am so grateful to Melanie and each of the painters (Nancy, Angela, Maggie, Lisa, Lulu). These are women with beautiful souls and beautiful hands. They will forever be a part of Peacock Pavilions. *I will never forget them.*

Hard at work stenciling.....

Here's adorable Maggie. And you can see part of the tent!

I happened to have a velvet evening dress (Diane Von Furstenberg) that matched the tent (purely coincidental! incredible, no?). I hung it in the corner of the tent for inspiration:-)