scenes from winters past
The House, After Dark
Each December, when the city finally turns cold, Eleanor & Thomas Vale lay the long table at The Alden House and light every candle they own. One evening of candlelight and good company — dinner, records, carols, and the people they like best. This winter, a place is set for you.
Hosted, as every winter, by
Eleanor & Thomas Vale
“Outside, December does its worst. Inside — candlelight, open bottles, and the company we keep on purpose.”
Aperitifs pour at seven — dinner seats at eight, and the fire is kept lit until the last story ends.
Dear friends,
Every winter since our first at the Alden House, we have kept one standing promise: on a Saturday in December the long table is laid, the cellar is opened, and the candles are lit until they burn down to their brass. It is our favourite night of the year — and it is not one we are willing to have without you.
Expect three courses and the bottles we’ve been hoarding, records after dinner, and carols sung more warmly than well. The snow may do as it pleases; the fire will be lit either way.
With love, from the Alden House,Eleanor & Thomas
Snow is likely; the fire is certain. Come cold, come early, come hungry — you will leave warm on all three counts.
New York, NY 10003
The brick front with the deep-navy door — ring twice.
Black tie, winterised — velvet, wool, and whatever looks best by candlelight.
Long velvet in deep navy or forest, winter white, warm candlelit gold. Bring a wrap for the drawing room — the fire takes a while to win.
A dinner jacket in black or deep navy over a crisp white shirt. A velvet jacket earns you the good Armagnac first.
Kindly reply by the First of December, 2027.
Your reply is on its way to the Vales. A place at the table will be kept warm for you.
No gifts, no bottles, no flowers for the table — the cellar is full and the house is lit. Arrive with an appetite and one good story from your year; Eleanor & Thomas will supply the rest.