I am very excited for this holiday season and for all of the wonderful work our talented staff has done to bring to life our newest book, The Tiny Book of Pies. It is part of our precious “Small Pleasures” series and is the perfect gift book for anyone who loves to eat pie, especially during the joyous holiday season! …
Blue Willow Tablescape with Jennifer Carroll
Jennifer Carroll, an event planner of 20 years and a mother on one, has kindly shared her easy fall tablescape design for any gathering, big or small with me. Jennifer has loved planning and playing “hostess” from the time she was a little girl. When it comes to party planning, she believes in keeping it simple. In her lovely “Blue …
Variations on Pound Cake
Around my house, everyone’s favorite part of the meal is always dessert. I have always loved to bake with my family, and especially love teaching my grandchildren how to bake. A simple and delicious recipe that is perfect for baking with children is Miss Jo’s Whipping Cream Pound Cake. Miss Jo was a dear lady in my childhood church who …
New Orleans Plantation Country Giveaway
The historic homes of New Orleans Plantation Country are some of the most beautiful and traditional representations of southern architecture and decor. I so enjoy traveling and experiencing these grand homes. Each plantation shares unique stories of the families who lived there, and even some thrilling tales of those who haven’t quite moved on. Fall is an especially magical time …
Black & White Party
In the South, we love to host parties. A party is so much fun, and we can always find a reason to celebrate! There are many ways to approach planning such a celebration and deciding on food, decorations, etc. Selecting a theme makes this process easier and allows the elements of the party to be more cohesive. One unique way …
Fall Colors in Arrangements
I have two friends, Gail Garner and Shelia Smith, who are so creative. They are our go-to pair when the event calls for something really special. Amy Grant was gracious enough to come to Birmingham for a concert benefitting the Auxiliary of Big Oak Ranch. I have written about the ranch many times here on Ribbon, so you know my …
Beautiful Ivy Tablescape
Do you have an especially cherished set of dishes? I have many that are special to me for various reasons, but one of the most meaningful is my mother’s green ivy dishes. The ivy wreaths on the classic white dishes with a green trim have always caught my eye. Ivy is a greenery that I always have in abundance. I …
Introducing New Southern Spaces Book
One of my favorite things about living in the South is the beautiful homes. I always love seeing the variations in architecture and style across the region. Decorating a home is truly an art. Southern Spaces is a new book that explores the aspects of decorating that are uniquely Southern. Editor Kathleen J. Whaley was kind enough to share some …
Magical Marriage of Serving and Centerpiece
It is no secret that I love beautiful serving pieces. I also love beautiful centerpieces. When I find both of those things combined into one, it’s even better. This magical combination comes in the form of the epergne. An epergne is a dining centerpiece that sits on four feet with a large central bowl and four or more smaller bowls …
Fun Kids Activities: Paper Airplanes
It is always a treat when my grandchildren come to the house! Whether it’s for a few hours or a few days, Neal and I cherish each moment we get to spend with them. One of the first things we do when the kids get to the house is put away all of the electronics. IPads are stashed and the …