Former international party planner Jonathan Rutherfurd Best shares his tips on how to throw a soiree to remember.

A lovely bottle of something special is always a welcome gift — Viva picks some of our best buys.

Good brushes aren't cheap, so how do you judge if they are worth the expense?

Softened butter to grease an oven tray, ¼ cup water, 1 cup white sugar, ½ cup light corn syrup, 1½ cups raw peanuts, ½ cup pecan nuts, ½ tsp salt, 2 Tbs butter, 1 tsp baking soda

Makes approximately 20. 20 fresh cherries, 50ml brandy, 100g butter, ½ tin condensed milk, ½ cup white chocolate, chopped, 375g crushed wine biscuits

This recipe needs to be made a day ahead. 400g dark chocolate - at least 60 per cent cocoa solids, 200ml cream, Zest of one orange, plus a little extra to garnish, 2½ Tbs crystallised ginger, finely chopped

The interplay between fragrance and memory prompts powerful emotions. Every season leaves a scent trail, but perhaps none more so than at Christmas.

Ponsonby Rd favourite Wallace Rose reopened its doors last month following a year's break for owner Sandra Harden.

Go on admit it, we all do it - check out what is on display in the bedrooms and bathrooms when we stay at or visit other people's homes.

Book in - or look in with Viva - to find out what it's like to play Park Avenue princess for a day.

Vincent Chen brews up a brilliant idea in the form of the world's most pure tea, grown here in Waikato.

This ancient wine territory is starting to reassert itself.

Sponges need a gentle touch but the results are worthwhile.

Industrial design student Ben de la Roche shares his inspirations.

Makeup mistress Bobbi Brown opens her first flagship store in Australasia this weekend.