Dear Friends
The inaugural fire of the season is always a glorious event at our house. Living in a mild climate, we wait with great anticipation for temperatures to dip low enough to carry out this cherished rite. On that first delightfully brisk evening, we draw near to the hearth, and my husband opens the handmade fire screen embellished with antique ironwork—a lovely piece inspired by one we admired at Biltmore. Pulling a few logs from a copper bucket, he coaxes a tender flame. As the slightest flicker grows into a crackling blaze, I sigh contentedly, realizing that fall has finally arrived. Opening this Victoria Classics issue kindles a similar coziness. As you become immersed in each feature, our editorial team hopes that you will feel crisp air on your face, hear the…