A much-anticipated tradition, the evening is a generous and heartfelt reward for work well done. "It's my way of giving my staff something really special," explains Lanham.

What began as Yuletide cocktails at Atlanta's Ritz-Carlton some 15 years ago when she started her design firm has evolved into a lavish seated dinner at her home.

"This year, I was inspired by a project we're doing in Doonbeg in County Clare, Ireland," says Lanham, pointing to the custom-made Irish stockings along the mantel and the party's earthy color palette, ranging from dark green and chocolate brown to antique gold and warm ivory.

Lanham's staff takes Christmas seriously as well, arriving coiffed, manicured, and dressed in their finery. "There's a definite buzz among the group," says Lanham, whose excited guests devised secret Santa wish lists months before.

After the meal, all adjourn to the "stone room," where guests open presents from their secret Santas, discover goodies tucked in their stockings, and choose from a grab bag of token gifts -- "little things that make people happy, like music or books," says Lanham.

Next, the hostess gives a group present: this year, an exquisite fountain pen made by her brother-in-law, Frank Mitchell. At the end of the evening, she bestows each employee with a few carefully selected personal gifts. "It's the least I can do," she says gratefully. "You can't just keep saying 'thank you.'"