For the most part, we all like to say that we have a “style” or a combination of styles that we prefer. Traditional, French country, romantic, contemporary—the list goes on. This new book, Country Farmhouse by Cindy Smith Cooper, includes a range of different styles from vintage to industrial to classic, and many in between. But however unique each home …
Hospitality Trays 101
It is often the simplest of gestures that let people know you care. Hospitality trays might sound elevated and fancy, but the truth is, they could not be any easier to put together! Create this special experience for your guests just one time, and you’ll never turn back after seeing how surprised and delighted they are. Having one of these trays …
A Love for All Things French
I have been to France twice in my life, and each time, I fell in love with so many things in this dreamlike country. When Cindy Cooper told me she was editing her book on French Country style, my heart rejoiced! For those of you who know me, you know I adore all things colonial and British (insert my affection …
Camp Gigi—Part One
Camp Gigi has just finished. It was a full week of having my granddaughter at our home with her best friend joining us for part of the week. Her brother was at his camp in the mountains, so it worked out perfectly for her to come to stay with us. Camp Gigi (what my grandchildren call me) is a week …
My Blue and White Living Room
Living rooms should be both comfortable and welcoming, and that’s how I designed mine! Blue and white is such a classic color combination so I chose the lovely duo for my great room. I just love the high vaulted ceilings and the tall wainscot paneling on the walls! My black grand piano sits by the front window so I can play …
My Pantry: An Organized Space
Nestled behind my kitchen, the central pantry contains everything I need while cooking delicious meals. The purpose of my pantry is storage of and easy access to items essential to the kitchen. The Diamond Cabinets were designed by MasterBrand with the focus on beauty and function. My pantry keeps food, dishes and china, glassware, and crystal organized and easily accessible. Some …
My Kitchen: The Heart of the Home
My kitchen is my happy place. When Neal and I designed our home, we wanted the kitchen to be open to the family room because our family and friends always want to gather in the kitchen. My cooktop faces the family room so I can enjoy conversations and hear the latest news when we have company. It’s great because I …
A View from Our Porch Swing
Every morning, Neal and I sit outside watching the world come to life after a long night’s rest. I enjoy having my morning coffee outside, and one of the things I love most is sitting in our porch swing while sipping my coffee. We have always enjoyed having a swing, and we can solve all the world’s problems from it. …
Gracious Living in the New Year
This post is part of the Southern Lady Magazine’s “Gracious Living in the New Year” web series. When we were designing our new home for the remodel, Neal and I planned one large room to serve as the living room, dining room and piano room with the kitchen opening right into the family room. It’s one room for all. I …