25th Anniversary show behind the scenes!

We recently taped a really fun show that will air on television tomorrow, Friday.  The event was to celebrate the twenty-fifth anniversary of my very first book called Entertaining.  I can’t believe that twenty-five years have sped by since I held the very first edition in my hands.  But, I feel better when I think that since then, we’ve published nearly fifty other amazing books, not to mention producing all the other aspects that comprise Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia.

When we began planning this show, we thought you might all like to see those who worked so tirelessly in helping to get Entertaining published, both in the actual food preparation and presentation, as well as those who were so vital in getting the concept into print.  So, twenty-five years later, we invited all the key players to appear on the television show.  It was a warm and wonderful reunion, and it was so nice to hear what everyone has been up to since then.  Here are some behind the scenes photos taken that day.  I hope you tune in tomorrow!

My sister and my blogger, Laura Plimpton, visiting the hair and makeup room and also amusing makeup artist, Deb Genova.  Laura was invited not only to blog, but because she also worked on Entertaining.

This is Liesl Menning, my executive assistant at television.  She is one who helps to keep my crazy schedule in check.

Here’s where Laura sat.  Isn’t the place setting lovely? 

Here’s Joey Kola, my warm-up artist, reviewing the show script.  Doesn’t he look dapper in a suit and tie?

This is a camera/teleprompter with television staff standing by.

Here’s the back of the head of Eddie, one of our cameramen.  He is focusing in on one of the delicious desserts featured that day

Tom Tamborello  is making sure that all is in correct position, along with Greta Anthony.  Vinnetta Scrivo is retouching my makeup.

This is some of my wardrobe room.

Here is my desk at television.  I was honored to receive the award in the background last September.  It is the Benjamin Franklin award for Distinguished Service.

This is where Eva Scrivo performs her makeup magic before each show.

This is the test kitchen managed by Nikki Elkins, our wonderful food producer.  Here’s a shot of the immaculate space with TV chef, Nora Singley and a kitchen intern.

Here I am at the end of the show answering questions from the audience.  Joey Meade, our fabulous stage manager is looking on.

An inside view of the control room with Fran and Kevin discussing something.  It all seems so complicated to me.

Another super technical space – the audio room

I feel more comfortable here in the art support space.  Look at those hanging icicles!

When it all gets too much for me, I like to practice yoga between shows, or I will get on my rowing machine and visualize that I’m oaring through some gorgeous stretch of water somewhere far away.

Here are some of the Emmys that we received from previous shows.

Comments

[scotte]

Congratulations to you Martha and your team. Entertaining is a wonderful book and has certainly stood the test of time.

[Kathy]

Martha,
Thanks for the background of all that is pulled together to put forth an amazing variety of information in many forms. It is a delight to be able to access so much in so many ways, and it is fascinating to see how so many work together to achieve the finished products.
Your observations yesterday on your show about the Blueprint staff being more comfortable with new ways of sharing information seem so true. Younger people revel in the ability to quickly send messages with their on stamp of personality included. Like you, I often find it hard to send messages without correct spelling and punctuation. Just a couple of days ago, I wrote a comment on one of your blogs--about Christmas trees. I wasn't feeling well and did not proofread before I posted. I did that even though for year after year as a teacher I had encouraged my students to check and revise what they wrote. Just as I clicked on post, I saw the spelling error!
Thanks again for all the good ideas.
Kathy

[PAULINE MUCCIACCIO]

Congratulations...I found the behind the scences tour very interesting. It's amazing what goes into producing a show.
Would like to have someone like Liesl to keep my schedule on track, maybe she could share some of her tips with us.
Pauline Mucciaccio

[Susan]

Wow, what a great show that was just by looking at the photos. I can't wait to see it. I also LOVE that I can watch the show the next night on Fine Living or online after 36 hours. My VCR broke and I can't afford to have DVR right now and so I'm glad that I can never miss your show! I watched you since you started on TV!!!! (Was it 1994?) Thanks for sharing your life with us as always. I love it and get so many ideas from you.

[Trish]

Hi Martha,
Thanks so much for letting us see just about everything backstage! The test kitchen is so big; I love the view of the set too. The only thing missing is an Emmy for this show so we all need to focus on that! I just know it will be a must-see show tomorrow and I'll be watching. You betcha! Trish

[matt]

I'm such a sucker for the behind-the-scenes stuff!

Thanks for sharing!

[Kate Miller]

What a wonderful show that will be Martha, I will make sure to tune in. My tattered copy of Entertaining, well loved, and used well is always where I can grasp it easily. Congradulations Martha,That book is a timeless treasure.

[Jane M]

Looking forward to the show tomorrow.

[Claudine]

Hi Martha,

Thanks for sharing that, I love the behind the scenes peaks. I was just thinking last night that I can't believe Entertaining is 25 years old. Wow how time flies. I like to think of it as 25 years having you share some wonderful "good things" with all of us! Can't wait for the show Friday,
Claudine

[Bailey]

Welcome to the blogging world. I was watching the show this morning and you mentioned you had started blogging. I love blogging and being able to look back on what I was doing a year ago or even last month. It's also a nice way that friends and family can keep up with your life. I look forward to making your blog a daily read.

[Pam From CA]

Happy 25th Anniversary to you. I remember when this book came out and I was a baker back then and had to rush out and buy the book. Thank you for twenty five years of Entertainment here's to twenty five more!
Thank you Martha for sharing your life & career with all of us. Thank you to your staff, crew and team for bringing it all together for us to enjoy each day.

[Margie]

Well done as always,

I ditto what Kathy has written as well as everyone else.

Thank you,
Margie

[theresa]

you are soo interesting. I really loved viewing the photos from Japan. I especially loved the dish with the maple leaves on it. Can you make dishes like that to sell? They really are exquisite.

[Charlotte Duncan]

Hi Martha, I just loved the behind the scenes pictures. I work when your show comes on but I love that it is on Fine Living everynight. I never miss it. Also, I go on line a lot to see whats going on during your show. I'm so glad you're back on TV. Hope you have a very Merry Christmas.

Charlott

[Jan Erickson]

Hi Martha, Thanks for another fantastic blog! I love all of the photos of what goes on behind the scenes. It's like actually being there. I'll probably never make it to New York, but thank God for this blog, your website, your TV program, etc.,etc.,etc., I will always be able to enjoy all things (GOOD THINGS!) MARTHA! Thanks again. Jan

[Eileen]

I'm looking forward to seeing the show on Friday. You are on my tivo season pass, so, I never miss a show. Your show helps me remember all the things that my mom taught me and seem so missing in this fast paced world today. My oldest daughter likes to watch your show with me on occasion and I feel like she is learning tradition. I know when my children have their own families, I will have to start getting you on DVD for them. My deepest condolences to you and your family. You will be in our thoughts and prayers this Christmas. P.S. Because of my polish heritage, I would love to see all of your mothers receipes compiled on DVD.
Sincerely,
Eileen

[Evelyn Ackbarali]

Hi Martha. I am the proud owner of one of your original Entertaining Books. In 2005, you personally autographed for me. I will treasure it always. Thank you for inspiring me to be a good cook and homemaker.

May you and yours enjoy the best that the New Year has to offer.

[Kathy]

Martha:
I visited New York in Fall 2006 and I regret that we did not try to plan a visit to your show. If I ever visit again that will be on the top of my list. Your behind the scenes photo shoot is fascinating for those of us who know nothing of how producing a television show works.
It amazes me how you have the energy to appear in so many shows each year. Do you have any plans for retirement?

[Sue Mannel]

Martha~ I love a peek at the inside world of anyone. I find it very fasinating. That's why when I 'm driving at night I look into people's houses in the neighborhood to see how they've decorated. Weird, I know! I'm just trying to get ideas. I could care less at what they are doing. I'm in it for the decor! Joey looks absolutely handsome. I hope you all had a great time.

Sue:)

[deborah g.]

Thank you for the beautiful article and backstage pictures of the anniversary show. Congratulations! I love your show and I enjoy your elegant blog.

[GirlInTheWorld]

I just finished perusing through "The Martha Rules" (which I plan on giving to my 95-year old Aunt Sophie (she's my mentor too) and I'm inspired to begin two businesses. Both of which I am passionate about.

Martha, I consider you a very important mentor in my life. Congratulations on this anniversary. What I love about you is that you ALWAYS seem to approach whatever life throws at you with a great deal of finesse. You made going to jail a working fieldtrip and managed to cultivate relationships where those women were empowered. That's powerful stuff.

The ladies in my family are always refering to something you made or cooked, etc. and since my home is not always the perfect setting for a photo shoot, my husband inevitably gets huffy. So instead of saying Martha, I always say MS because my husband says, "Everytime "Martha" opens an oven door it costs me money". Quel pain in the neck! At any rate, over the years I've collected all the books, even made binders specifically for you "Remembering" column and the fabulous "Collecting" column. Since I've been going to yard sales for 25 years, through researching those articles along with the Guides, I've found that in fact I have many items that are highly collectible that I got for about 25 cents. I have Stangl, Wedgwood, Bark Cloth, vintage linens, LustreWare, etc. So, in ending I'd just like to say -- THANKS FOR ALL THOSE GOOD THINGS -- LOOKING FORWARD TO 25 MORE YEARS OF MARTHA.

[Debi O']

Wow! 25 years! We have come a long way before the days of modern technology! I enjoy learning something new everyday. Your shows have kept me busy for so many years. I take pleasure in the past shows as much as the current ones.

You are such an inspiration to many, many people. I love your format of keeping us up to date as to what happens in your neck of the woods.

So here's to another 25 yrs. & I can't wait to see how you will celebrate that milestone!

Have a wonderful Christmas with your family & all of your furbabies. Thank you for sharing them with us.

as always, a friend in crafts!

[Norma Janelle]

Your neice's journey in India is very exciting. I have a granddaugter about her age who has been traveling all over the world also. She met her husband while studying in England, and they have made trips through South America, Africa, and Europe.
It's so good these girls can travel while they are young!

[martha]

We have two first Editions of "Entertaining" . One is earlier than the other due to the fact that I originally had three books. I loaned one to a friend of my Mother-in-law's and she never returned it so I bought another one when I realized I would never see it again.
This book has been a staple in our home for 25 years. The most elegant party I ever did was my Mother-in Laws 65Th birthday party . I followed it to a tee. I was young and very energetic back then and nothing could stop me from doing it all. Now 25 years later we are turning to the wedding of Martha's brother to glean a beautiful reception for our soon to be new daughter-in law. I firmly believe that this book changed the way the American woman entertains. I remember going to a party given by a executive's wife and I truly thought Martha was in the kitchen directing it all. She had copied recipe by recipe the Christmas Open House party including the Croquembouche! I just smiled and said thank you Martha for bringing elegance and style back from the turmoil of the 60's
For years I have been teased that I am a Martha want to be but that is not the case. I respect all that Martha has done for the industry as without her style there would be no HGTV, Food Network, and all the other style shows and shelter magazines out there today. Thank you again for including my husband ( also very fine cook and gardener) in your show. We look forward to being with you. Ps We were at the show's taping and it was just so wonderful to be there. Martha is a true example of a beautiful person and a true lady. And the set is just out of this world.. Thank you for inviting us to your show.. Martha

[Helene T. Curto]

Martha,

I have followed your enthusiasm, knowledge and insight for the past 25 years, and what a ride its been. Congrads! A year and a half ago I took my passion, followed your Martha rules and started my own business, and recently inspired me to blog! Because my customers wanted to know something about me! Thank You! & come visit my web site and blog! I'm sure you'll Love It!
I hope everyone at MSLO has a wonderful Christmas!

Helene Curto

[Gloria Herring]

Martha, I always try to tape your shows and watch them before I go to bed. Today, I watched while it was on, and again, tonight. I really enjoyed it.
I like the way you always give credit to everyone that works with you, for you, or around you. And...the way you say "WE" instead of "I, I, I" like some do. You share the fame with all the others.
Thank you for being you, Gloria

[Hardboiledegg]

That charming egg nog guy what a hoot he is-- Yes mam'am --- No wonder you have been so successful martha you have the "verison" network behind you Taking sunflowers from the neighbors driving trucks not properly licensed sounds like a great many flying by the seat of your pants in the early days -- boy ,I bet it was fun back then you have let us in on the world of book publishing lavish parties and what appears to be an impressive amount of Job security --- how many folks these days can say they have been with the same company for 25 years ?? unless you work for the post office or something and you are a vet

[Deborah]

Martha,
My mother-in-law has a signed copy of your Entertaining book. She received the book while at a dinner party in the company of Alex Conroy and his wife. Maybe one day she will pass the book along to me.

[Gerdi]

Hi Martha, Forgot to ask, is the location for the cover on your first Entertaining book the same location as the updated version? Noticed you still have the same lovely dining set. Thanks,
Gerdi Brunswick, Ohio

[Gerdi]

Hi Martha, Forgot to ask, is the location for the cover on your first Entertaining book the same location as the updated version? Noticed you still have the same lovely dining set. Thanks,
Gerdi Brunswick, Ohio

[Robin Holtson]

Dear Ms. Stewart:
I envy the professionalism and true teamwork that your employees express. "Entertaining" was one of the first of some 300+ cookbooks I now have in my library. Not long ago, I took "Entertaining" off the shelf. My, what memories those recipes bring. Lela Mae, my Mom, showed me the joy of having family and friends in your kitchen; your wonderful ease of teaching technique, enabled me to become the cook I am today. Together, I am most happy when in the kitchen surrounded by family and friends.
Sincerely,
Robin

[Sandy Mesker]

Dear Martha,
Always love your show, even when it wasn't live. Love your Halloween and Christmas shows. Wanted to say how sorry I am about your mom. Wish I could come to work with you in New York. The people there are lucky to have you, Please take care of yourself. Your one of a kind.
Thanks for all you do for me, Sandy in Ohio

[Matthew Copley]

Hi Martha!

Love your show and all the wonderful Good things you bring to us. So sorry to hear of the passing of your mother. I too know what thats like. I enjoy getting your magazine and love all your CHRISTMAS decorations! I love CHRISTMAS.....
I cant wait to be able to attend your show one day. That would be a Dream come true.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Matthew

[Paula M.]

Dear Martha,
Congratulations on your 25 years of Entertaining! I remember buying the first edition for my Mom way back when. I would actually study the pages, especially the cookies at Christmas and the decorating! We even made Christmas dinners from your menus.
It was my Bible and started me to emulate all that I could absorb and learn from Martha Stewart!
I have a second print of Entertaining not to mention every book you published after that.
Thank you for all your inspiration. I now have people calling me "Martha" and I have you to thank for all those skills I learned in the book.
As they say in Polish (I am a little rusty but I hope this is right) "Dobra Wola" meaning good will! Thanks Martha!!
Paula :)

[Wendy]

Martha,

Deep in the Heart of a hot Texas December, how does one get in the Christmas spirit? I always spend a few hours with your Christmas book. The early winter light in the photographs is still inspiring after all these years.

[Lindsey L.]

Love to see the rowing machine! I am an avid rower and row for my college. I love to see more people appreciate the beauty of rowing and how wonderful it really is!!!

[Rowaida]

Dear Martha,
Congratulations on your 25th years of Entertaining!
May you be blessed always with Good Health and Success to keep you inspiring us with all the great and wonderful things.
Thank you Martha
God Bless
Rowaida Flayhan

[Kevbo]

Yea! Tom Tamborello! I wondered where he had gone. So glad to see he's still with you. I always loved the projects he would help you with, especially the rolling underbed drawers with the dust shield.

[Sheila Lister]

Of course congrats, and Joey does look very dapper. I have an idea or suggestion if you like, especially at sweeps time, what if you had some sort of contest where home viewers could enter to win whatever the studio audience took home that day or for any time period you might choose. Say for a week or a month, or perhaps 1st, 2nd, 3rd place winners for different time frames. Your bright staff could come up with the details.

[Paul Palazzola]

Martha,

All I can say is "Thank You"!!

Best regards,

Paul

[Ellen]

Martha - I love all your recipes and ideas and I am a copycat!! I wish you another wonderful 25 years!

I've been making marshmallows from your long ago Christmas book and they are a hit whenever they appear. So good and I always give you credit!!

[Cindy]

Didn't I just see this show???

I have a DVR and record your show everyday, and I was home sick on 2/11 & 2/12 and saw the 25th Annv.of your 1st book Entertaining. It was the first book of it's kind to be done in color and you had to fight for them to do it, and you won.

[Michele Rowan]

I would like to know if stage manager Joey Meade once worked with Riki Rachtman, and was born 8-10-65?
Thank you.

[Mary Bailey]

I have the Entertaining book which I purchased years ago. It is torn and pages are worn, but it is still my favorite cookbook.
How can I get the stupid cable company here in El Paso to carry your morning
TV show? I have called several times and they will not listen. Any suggestions?
Mary Bailey

Telephone- (915) 5661904)or kbailey@elp.rr.com