Heather McCartney with Dad      in Atlanta by Mike Kovacich January 8, 1999

In an event attended and reported by Jane P. Rucker, Heather McCartney staged a Press Conference to launch of her first collection of her own houseware designs. Heather's collection of bold and distinctive designs are destined for 70,000 retailers and manufacturers. Her father Paul was there beside her giving her his full support.

"She's always been very talented in that way, even when she was very little," he said. "She started off as a potter ... and now she has entered the interior design world."

Paul insisted the spotlight belonged to Heather, 36, who bears a strong resemblance to her mother, whom he married in 1969 when he was still performing as a Beatle.

Asked how it felt to have two designers in the family -- Heather's sister Stella made her Paris debut as a fashion designer last year -- Paul said it was time they started careers of their own.

"We never pushed them into anything when they were younger, and they're all over 21 now, so they're ready to work themselves," he said.

Heather McCartney said her mother had influenced her work.

"Her strength, the colour and passion, everything that we are, all of it is in Mary, Stella, James and me and my dad," she said, naming all the family members.

The designs were influenced by the ancient art of Mexico's Huichol and Tarahumara Indian tribes, with whom Heather McCartney lived while studying their lore.

"They introduced me to many things, including the bold use of colour, which is evident in my new designs," she said.

The collection, which will be available in U.S. stores in September, includes hand-painted earthenware made in Spain; wool throws, rugs and pillows woven in Scotland; photo frames, clocks, tea lights and candles.

Afterward there was a cocktail party and MACCA-Cenral corrspondent Jane P Rucker was there with husband Jimmy and camera in hand.

A first-hand report by Jane P.Rucker to follow.