One of my favorite things to do in the fall is start a needlework project. I have selected my project for the holiday season: Winter Sampler from Elizabeth Bradley Designs. I love the primitive design and the colors just fit my décor perfectly. When the weather turns cold, it is fun to sit by the fire in my favorite chair …
In my travels, I get to meet the most interesting people. I am often invited to speak at various women’s organizations and ministry groups, and it gives me an opportunity to really connect with the readers of our magazines. I get to meet new friends and visit with dear friends from my past. It is amazing the accomplishments of women …
My daughter-in-law Katie hosts the most splendid parties. Her personal touch on everything makes each celebration so special. From the invitations to the take-home party favor, she plans right down to the last detail. I wanted to share her ideas with you because this time of year offers wonderful opportunities to decorate for a party, and I’m fortunate that my …
From the time Heather was a child she loved entertaining. Whether it was setting up parties for her Barbies or having the high school French Club over for a festive holiday gathering, serving homemade crêpes and a bûche de Noël cake, entertaining came naturally. Heather thought that this affinity for entertaining was normal for everyone since she was used to …
Several years back, Allison Banks came to work here at Hoffman Media. She was a very artistic person and had wonderful style. Allison’s monograms and lettering had intrigued me from the time I met her. Working with her was so inspiring, and I was delighted when she decided to branch out on her own and start her own company. It …
Halloween was a big deal when I was a child. I can remember deciding what I would be for the big night of trick-or-treating. My favorite costume that I recall was the year of the gypsy. I got into Mom’s costume jewelry and put on all I could. Then I applied all the makeup I could get on enhanced with …
I sat spellbound last week watching this master floral arranger put together stunning creations from flowers cut fresh from a garden right here in Birmingham. Englishman Shane Connolly, author of “A Year in Flowers,” was in town for the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Secretly, I wanted to hear him speak and see his creations because he is the floral designer to …
As many of you know, I love sewing for my granddaughter, Amelia, and have shared with you some of her dresses that I have made for various occasions. Now that she is 4, she loves the bright fabrics that are so wonderful today. Several months ago I shared with you the story of Riley Blake Fabrics, and just a few …
I love sharing party ideas with you because we all are looking for great ideas when planning birthday parties for our little ones—whether grandchildren or children. My daughter-in-law, Katie, planned an art theme this year for Amelia’s birthday party. The invitations were adorable and set the tone for a creative afternoon. Her foods were very innovative, and I loved the presentation. …
As most of you know, sponsoring charities is near and dear to the heart of our company and our family. When the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama and Paula Deen asked us to participate in Paula Deen’s Box Lunch to End Hunger, we jumped at the chance. Not only was the event a lot of fun, but we also …
