Mom knew how to entertain guests and organize parties. It was an event when she organized a reception and I remember how many compliments she would receive from everyone including Dad. Dad felt ten feet tall after Mom had organized a party where Mom had shone like a bright star.
Dad was always proud of how Mom managed receptions. She would have made an exceptional event planner and even could have been a diplomat.
Years later some of us in our family became event organizers – just like her.
Mom also knew how to speak publicly and was gracious in how she would answer everyone. But if necessary she had no compunction about being direct herself.
Several VIPs came to our home including Guido Carli, the director of the Bank of Italy, and other prominent business people.
One of the greatest receptions was the one Mom prepared at our villa at Fregene. We lit huge candle like lamps and placed them all over the garden. The marble floor in front of the home was waxed and polished, a modern band invited to play some music. Many couples danced on into the early hours of the morning. Next day no one went to work.
And the food? A whole pig was roasted, Roman style, along with many other fine dishes and in those days there always was caviar.
The compliments I would hear repeatedly as the guests were leaving was: “This was the nicest party that we have ever been too.”