There is nothing that stirs the holiday spirit like beautiful floral decorations in a grand, old Southern home. While I am a fan of traditional Christmas decoration with its red and green, there is a fine line between festive and flashy. I have to appreciate the creativity in a holiday design that honors tradition, but is just a little bit …
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 …
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 …
Pursuing Peace This Fall
We are in such a joyous time of year. I love fall for so many reasons: hot drinks, the changing of leaves, wearing cozy sweaters…the list goes on. Along with all the joys that fall brings, it also ushers in one of the busiest times of the year. It’s football season, the holidays are coming up, and many things demand …
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 …
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 …
Unique Centerpieces
It can be a challenge to keep your décor fresh and exciting. I can easily find myself falling into a rut with decorating, especially when it comes to decorating a tablescape. One way I have found to challenge myself and keep my skills sharp is to repurpose unconventional items as unique centerpieces for my table. Cream pitchers and sugar bowls …
Floral Arrangements at Biltmore
Asheville, North Carolina is home to a favorite place of mine, Biltmore. Neal and I visited Biltmore last month so that I could see the fashion exhibit that is currently on display throughout the house. I was working on a feature story for the next issue of Classic Sewing and wanted to see the re-creation of Cornelia Vanderbilt’s incredible wedding …