Who is Susan?
Susan Fleming is a modern woman who embodies an old-soul elegance. As a curator of gracious living, heritage travel, and timeless style, she invites others into a world where rituals are sacred, storytelling is a form of currency, and beauty is discovered in the details.
With a rich background in journalism, etiquette, and the arts, Susan has dedicated decades to embodying classic style and a gracious presence. From handwritten notes to heritage hotels, her brand pays tribute to refinement while exuding a contemporary warmth that embraces others. In her world, everyday rituals transform into art forms, and classic style becomes a signature of beauty and self-care.
Susan...
I love to watch the sunrise, basking in the beauty of the early morning sky as I walk in the ocean’s tide. The misty scenes that greet the day are a reminder of the elegance that surrounds us. I adore the first crisp breath of fall and the initial warmth of spring. I yearn to feel my lover’s touch in a cozy winter retreat, where moments of gracious living come to life.
While I like to stay organized and plan most of my endeavors, I often embrace spontaneity, allowing for storytelling moments that enrich my life. My palate enjoys the flavors of pasta, steak, and bread, accompanied by poetry and a soothing cup of Earl Grey. I’m sensitive and kind (mostly) and find joy in rainy days while listening to Chopin.
My career has spanned various roles, including magazine editor, features writer, creative director for an online magazine, and food columnist. I have consulted for major food brands and even wrote a children’s etiquette column for a national publication, emphasizing the importance of self-care and manners.
For the past 30 years, I have volunteered with organizations dedicated to helping sexually-abused children, orphaned animals, and preventing domestic violence. My commitment to heritage travel has led me to serve on boards for historic preservation, museums, ballet, education, and more.
I am captivated by old-style jazz, particularly Bessie Smith, and the timeless style of 1930s Hollywood glamour. I find equal fascination in significant milestones, grand holidays, and the small miracles of everyday life—the mundane and the familiar.
I enjoy riding with the windows down, kayaking, visiting historic sites, dining in cozy greasy spoons, or savoring dinner on the balcony at the Ritz. I love laughter and acting silly, whether it’s dancing on tabletops (though perhaps less so lately…lol) or meeting influential figures, like the governor at the 2014 Inauguration. I revel in cruising with the top down, singing along to music filled with drama and soul, attending formal events, swimming under freezing waterfalls, packing a 5-star picnic, or spending hours in almost any art museum.
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I make really good homemade pies, Osso Bucco, sacher torte, and reduction sauces.
I have an irreverent and adolescent sense of humor, but I also like wittiness and “high-brow” comedy.
I am pretty much up for traveling anywhere, although I like being at home as well.
I’m fascinated by science, love fashion and decorating, family outings, beautifully-planned formality, and casual get-togethers with friends.
I love Def Leppard, ‘70s rock, cheese, bitter beer, and cats (they make me laugh.)
I like people who have the ability to see the beauty of simple things, like walking on the beach in winter, taking their shoes off in a freezing creek, or listening to Beethoven on a stormy night.
Learning is very important to me! I love people with intellectual curiosity and an appreciation for beautiful art whether that be buildings, sculptures, paintings, literature, or staged productions.
I tend to gravitate toward others who appreciate the feel of an old book, the loveliness of old trees framing a street, how stars look on clear, cold nights, and who know how to really, really see and don’t mind being seen.