As a publisher of several food-focused titles, I’ve long been fascinated by the history of tableware, particularly when it serves a hyper-specific purpose. Proprietor of the New Orleans French Quarters’ Lucullus and Louisiana Cookin’ contributor, Patrick Dunne, delights us month after month with his musings on culinary antiques. His latest article on asparagus was no exception. I hope you’ll enjoy …
When Neal and I visited Biltmore House recently, we saw letters and notes the Vanderbilts had written years ago when the “house was in mourning.” We found these intriguing—each note or letter was written on black-banded stationery. I commented about that, and the curator pointed out that during a time of mourning, not only did the family dress in black, …
This elegant water lily napkin fold is perfect for a ladies’ luncheon, bridal brunch, or other gathering. It might look complicated at first glance, but you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how easy it is to create! Lay flat a square napkin, and fold each corner to meet at the center, pressing folds as you work to create a square. Flip …
The second issue of Classic Sewing has been released to subscribers and sewing shops. You know I just love antiques and vintage collectibles, and I wanted to share with you the dress I made for my granddaughter, which is featured in this issue. I have a wonderful collection of vintage reproduction handkerchiefs that Lori Taylor of Dallas gave me when …
Anyone who reads this blog regularly knows about my love for beautiful gardens. Today I’m excited to tell you about a giveaway that I know will delight you! Our friends at Visit Winston-Salem are offering a one-night stay at the historic Brookstown Inn in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, complete with the opportunity to view a collection of heirloom gardens that are absolutely …
I confess I love writing with a fountain pen. And April is letter-writing month. What could be more perfect? Letters, notes, pen, and ink are some of my favorite topics to write about. Did you know that we have a 2016 ink color? Each year Pelikan introduces a new fountain pen ink for a limited time. The Edelstein ink of the …
Many of us who grew up in the South have wonderful memories of the heirloom cookware used by our mothers and grandmothers. Today I’d like to share with you this witty and heartwarming story from Taste of the South editor Josh Miller. His grandmother’s fried chicken legacy is sure to live on for generations. As told by Josh Miller My …
I have long been enchanted with the lifestyle of France. Even when my travels don’t spirit me away to that land, whenever I seek French inspiration, I refer to my magazine and book collection that focuses on its people, décor, and food. Hoffman Media’s new 208 page, hardcover book French Cottage is designed to allow our readers to peek into homes …
I have two of the most animated grandchildren in the world. They are so much fun and are so full of life. Now for those of you who have grandchildren, you are sharing my thoughts! I am often asked about etiquette for children and specifically table manners. My, what a subject: table manners for children. When I was growing up, …
No matter how you typically decorate Easter eggs, I think you’ll be touched by this beautiful story from Lucy Finney, one of our photo stylists and a model for Classic Sewing magazine. Her mother, Betty Carter, created quite the egg smocking legacy! Thank you, Lucy, for sharing this. Happy Easter! Love, Phyllis “When my mother, Betty Carter, was young, each year …
