Innholdsfortegnelse for May - June 2016 i Southern Lady

“Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies.”Proverbs 31:10 Dear Friends, It is the season to be outdoors, from a leisurely afternoon on a shady front porch to a gardenia-scented twilight stroll. If you love glorious gardens as much as I do, you’ll delight in a sneak peek at Carolyne Roehm’s new book, At Home in the Garden (page 37). Carolyne’s famous sense of style extends to the landscape, where she has created gorgeous spaces for gathering with family and friends or simply relaxing over a glass of sweet tea. From her formal parterre gardens to her colorful orchards, each setting exudes classic elegance and Southern charm. Planning a weekend away? Put North Carolina’s Biltmore Estate on your short list: On display from now through…

STEP IN TIME Punctuality has never been more fashionable. Olivia Burton Enchanted Garden, $110; Olivia Burton, oliviaburton.com. WARDROBE ESSENTIAL A chic scarf brings effortless style to basic ensembles. Majestic Magenta Cotton & Silk Scarf, $70; Ellebelle, ellebellenyc.com. CONTAIN YOURSELF Stash baubles in a sophisticated jewelry box with a trendy key tassel. Jonathan Adler Lacquer Jewelry Box, $295; Neiman Marcus, neimanmarcus.com. FLOWER POWER This delicate necklace featuring a favorite Southern bloom promises to become an heirloom treasure. Magnolia Necklace, $475; Stephanie Kantis, stephaniekantis.com. STATEMENT PIECE A romantic floral-patterned handbag brightens day-today outings. Cedar Street Hazy Floral Maise, $278; Macy’s, macys.com.…

Life is measured in laughter, great conversations, and shared experiences—and Ginny McCormack of Southern Sisters Home knows that these special moments often happen around the table. With a mantra of “everyday living, everyday beauty,” Ginny is ever in pursuit of ways to preserve classic Southern hospitality in a fast-paced modern world. “A great leader once said that all the world’s problems could be solved around the dinner table. It is a place where relationships develop and grow stronger,” she points out. “I’ve always said that good food is a wonderful thing, but it is the fellowship we experience around the table that nourishes us.” Passionate about gracious entertaining, yet mindful of the reality of busy lives and hectic schedules, the Marietta, Georgia, resident launched a collection of beautiful but practical…

As we welcome warmer weather, an abundance of natural color appears in the form of vibrant blooms and beauty all around. With such a blissful backdrop in place, there’s no need to trouble yourself with an elaborate display; instead, create a simple centerpiece that adds a tasteful touch of colorful personality. Start with several taper candles in a cheerful hue such as aqua, and place them in crystal candlesticks that lend just the right amount of refinement. Then scatter pink hydrangeas in petite ivory ceramic pots about the table for an extra splash of easy, breezy color.…

•Find one thing that you absolutely love in every room of your home, and study it for inspiration. “Think about why you love it, why it makes you happy every day, and build your room from there,” Lathem says. •Use the squint test to gauge the balance of pattern in a space. “Literally, squint,” Cate says. “If it’s a bolder pattern, or if it’s a larger scale, and there are too many of them in the room, then it’s going to hurt your eyes.” A good rule of thumb: Combine one large-scale pattern with one medium and one small-scale version. “You can’t go wrong,” Lathem says. •Spend money on the pieces you intend to have longevity. “We often encourage clients to invest in their upholstery or invest in their largest…

You might say that Jackson is Mississippi in microcosm. This self-proclaimed “city with soul” celebrates both the state’s past and its present with zeal, from the gracious Southern homes to the deeply rooted blues culture and prolific arts scene. On the cusp of an urban renaissance, Jackson is dedicated to preserving Mississippi’s multilayered history while forging a fresh and sassy new spirit. Deborah Bryant, Mississippi’s First Lady and a native of west Jackson, has enjoyed a ringside seat for the city’s evolution. Although she doesn’t recall touring the Governor’s Mansion as a child—and certainly never dreamed she’d one day live there—it has been a constant presence through the decades, figuring prominently in key memories. “I learned to parallel park in front of the mansion—it was a little intimidating,” Deborah says…

Grilled Vegetable Crudité with Smoky Parmesan Dip MAKES 6 TO 8 SERVINGS Smoky Parmesan Dip: ½ cup mayonnaise ¼ cup sour cream ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese 1/8 teaspoon fresh lime zest 1½ teaspoons lime juice 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper Vegetables: 2 ears corn, cut into 3-inch pieces 8 multicolored mini sweet peppers 1 avocado, halved, pitted 1 medium tomato, cut into ¼-inch slices 1 head broccoli, cut into florets ½ large red onion, cut into wedges 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1½ teaspoons kosher salt ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper 1. For Smoky Parmesan Dip: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and all remaining ingredients. Refrigerate until ready to serve. 2. For vegetables: In a large bowl, combine corn and all remaining ingredients.…

Garden Grandeur There is no shortage of inspiration to be found in Carolyne Roehm’s varied pursuits, from her impeccable fashion design to her artful entertaining. In this issue, she shares some of the breathtaking results of her life’s work at Weatherstone, a 59-acre country estate that now bears her inimitable handiwork in a rich tapestry of lush, inviting gardens (page 37). The peek into glorious outdoor spaces continues with the rambling gardens of an Atlanta estate (page 67) and a look at the handsome gates that lead the way to such nurturing spaces (page 55). What’s Old Is New I feel blessed to meet so many of the region’s artists and entrepreneurs who are following their God-given talents with great passion. One of those people is Antique Rose Emporium founder…

MIX IT UP Store treasured family recipes in a cheerful box with scalloped dividers. Gold Label Recipe Box, $120; Sugar Paper, sugarpaper.com. ORDERLY FASHION A frilly apron in pink or blue hues adds a touch of gentility to daily chores. Pomegranate Candy Lattice Apron, $20; Sarah Richardson Design, shopsarahstyle.com. SET IN STONE Bring all-out glamour to entertaining with pink coasters. Rose Quartz Kivita Coaster, $165 for a set of 2; Bliss Home and Design, blisshomeanddesign.com. MODERN APPEAL Containers in a classic color combination provide sophisticated storage solutions. Jamie Young Co. Oran Canister, $225 for a set of 2; Candelabra, shopcandelabra.com. TAKE NOTE Corral to-do lists and important information in a handsome and practical notebook. Kate Spade New York Spiral Notebook, $14; Lifeguard Press, lifeguardpress.com.…

THE INSPIRATION With nods to the natural elements of the French countryside, Gien’s Oiseau Bleu pattern bears a classic 19th-century design featuring a delightful mix of flora and fauna. CASUAL POSSIBILITIES This rustic setting captures the essence of laid-back summer gatherings—both indoors and out. Pair the salad plate with a wooden charger and an antique-blue dinner plate whose faded sections echo the charger’s hue. Opt for simple silver flatware and stemless blown glassware to continue the theme of understated charm. A colorful napkin and fresh-cut hydrangeas add a few notes of warmth. ELEGANT OPTIONS A bit of polish and shine elevates the plate to suit a more formal table. Choose a taupe napkin with a subtle pattern for eye-catching contrast against the design of the salad plate. A white dinner…

Style expert Carolyne Roehm relishes fond memories of gardening at her grandmother’s side. She spent long summer days with her hands in Missouri earth, digging up carrots, watering herbs, and avoiding thorns as she clipped fragrant roses. She created makeshift vases for zinnias and dahlias by trimming off the tops of milk cartons, and she ate tomatoes straight from the vine, savoring the taste of the soil and sun that formed them. Grandmother Beaty provided daily lessons in the art of horticulture in what Carolyne lovingly refers to as her small Midwestern Eden. Those lessons continue to guide Carolyne’s gardening ventures. She still plants marigolds to ward off pests and fills her garden with the squash and asparagus she learned to cultivate so long ago. She shares her gardening experiences—the…

I love wedding season for more reasons than I can count—and chief among them is getting an up-close peek at so many gorgeous dresses. From tulle to taffeta and ruching to rosettes, I never tire of marveling over the intricate details that make each gown as unique as the bride who wears it. You can imagine how excited I was to learn that Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, would be hosting an exhibit themed around wedding gowns from the big screen. Now underway and open through midsummer, Fashionable Romance: Wedding Gowns in Film features nearly four dozen spectacular dresses from beloved films such as Sense and Sensibility and Middlemarch. As a bonus, the Biltmore floral team has painstakingly crafted companion arrangements to suit the style and era of the…

Thomas Jefferson once said, “No occupation is so delightful to me as the culture of the earth, and no culture comparable to that of the garden.” The splendor of this exquisite garden captures the meaning of his weighty words, illustrating the intricacy he describes. Evergreen hedges trimmed into elaborate designs set the scene, providing both interest and structure all around the residence. Favorite Southern vines scale the walls and arch over the windows—all drawing attention to the refined architectural features. The harmony between the home and its natural backdrop continues in shrubs that help define the space, as well as informal plantings that soften harsh exterior lines. Outdoor accents like planters, urns, and ornate gates pair perfectly with a lovely mix of colorful annuals, as well as perennials like the…

For designer Meridy King, this historic home in the heart of Atlanta’s Buckhead community piqued a personal passion. Having grown up just a couple of streets down from it, she says, she loves to see the older homes in the area restored to their “original look and shine.” At the start of the process, Meridy recalls telling owners Barbara and Julian Sparkes, “Whoever does this house needs to respect it and bring it back to what it used to be.” Though the structure was still beautiful on the outside, the designer says its interior was a tragic tribute to the ’80s. The first order of business was to trade the taupe walls and dated furnishings for a lighter, brighter feel throughout. A stunning chandelier in the living room became the…

Stone Fruit Salsa MAKES ABOUT 6 SERVINGS 2 cups chopped peaches 2 cups chopped plums 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint 2 tablespoons chopped green onion 1 tablespoon finely chopped seeded jalapeño* 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice 1 tablespoon honey 1/8 teaspoon salt Garnish: fresh mint sprigs 1. In a bowl, toss together peaches, plums, mint, green onion, jalapeño, and salt. Drizzle with lime juice and honey; gently stir. Cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours. Garnish with mint, if desired. Serve with tortilla chips. *Keep the jalapeño seeds for more heat, if desired. Stone Fruit Sangria MAKES ABOUT 6 SERVINGS 1/3 cup water 1/3 cup sugar 1 (750-milliliter) bottle rosé, chilled 1/3 cup dry sherry 4 large peaches, sliced 2 plums, sliced 1 cup…

Markey Hutchinson, owner and designer of The Beaufort Bonnet Company, had always dreamed of dressing her daughter in the kind of classic bonnet she and her sister sported in their early years, but her search for the perfect style for her little one on the way proved surprisingly difficult. “Every bonnet I found was really dressy and frilly but not practical,” Markey recalls. “I wanted something Betsey would be able to throw on for the pool or beach or show off on Easter morning.” By chance, in a photo of a friend’s baby, she spotted what she had been searching for—a pink gingham bonnet from a children’s store in Beaufort, South Carolina. The expectant mother obtained her own, and once Betsey arrived and began modeling the bonnet, Markey quickly realized…

SOUTHERN CHARM Southern Lady magazine charms me—so much so that I think everyone else will enjoy it as much as I do. Currently I am paying for five subscriptions. Two subscriptions go to a sister and her granddaughter in Knoxville, Tennessee; another to a friend in Huntland, Tennessee; another to a friend in Pontotoc, Mississippi; and a subscription for myself. After an issue arrives, there are telephone calls telling me how beautiful it is. We all save these magazines. After years of designing for weddings and wedding receptions, I now specialize in styling tables. The photos and articles on floral designs and table settings are among my favorite things in the magazine and give wonderful inspirations. Thank you for a beautiful publication. Write Now What is your favorite story or…

SEASONAL BLISS Savor early sunrises and long summer days with a simple setting and a few kindred spirits. As orchards’ bounties tempt our taste buds with succulent peaches and sensationally sweet cherries, retreat to a patio canopied by shade trees and pretty parasols. A favorite summery frock and floppy-brimmed hat will be right at home in this delightfully feminine setting. LEMON TWIST A citrus palette forms a refreshing foundation for a café table set with views of the garden. Choose an assortment of linens for an air of effortless style, and pair with plates reminiscent of posies. Since table space is limited, a nearby sideboard is just the spot for a casual display of garden roses, fern fronds, and Queen Anne’s lace. Echo the flowers at each place setting with…

Summertime has a way of drawing us outdoors for long conversations and tall glasses of lemonade. Magnolias flaunt gracious blooms, fireflies flit about the yard, and cicadas croon their familiar tune. Before settling into a favorite spot to enjoy the show, give your porch a lively update with fashion-forward accessories in cool summer tones. For a worn patio table that has seen better days, Caterina Meadows of Pate-Meadows Designs came up with this chic and savvy table skirt idea. Using outdoor fabrics in the Hot Tropics collection from Alabama-based Phifer Incorporated, Caterina created a base skirt with a kick pleat to conceal the wooden legs. She then made an overlay and gave it a scalloped edge to highlight its medallion pattern. Although she used drapery lining to back the bottom…

Southern ladies love a good story, and Lathem Gordon and Cate Dunning are no exception. As co-owners of Decatur, Georgia, design firm GordonDunning, they take pride in ensuring that each project whispers of the homeowner’s past and present, from an antique chest rejuvenated with crisp white lacquer to a framed collection of family love letters. “What brings us together is telling people’s stories—how they met, where they got married, where they went to college,” Cate says. “That speaks to both of our hearts.” Their own tale began at the Atlanta design firm where they first worked, bonding over a shared love of history, heirlooms, and lively color palettes. “We quickly realized that we were soul mates and we could never live without each other,” Lathem says with a laugh. “We…

SECRET HIDEAWAY With well-defined angles and minimal ornamentation, this trellised wooden gate serves as a crisp counterpoint to the tumble of blossoms and greenery that flank it. (Opposite) Echoing the deep green of the home’s shutters, this gate beckons with a sense of mystery, hinting at the enchantment that lies inside. A magnolia stands sentinel as dainty blooms and variegated foliage flutter gently along the path. A timeworn vintage door dreamy scene sets a that is pure romance . CURVE APPEAL A soaring arch mirrors the graceful scoop of the twin gates below for a pleasing air of harmony. Wrought-iron detailing, weathered stonework, and espaliered plantings lend European flair.…

Hannah Queen’s journey to the creation of her cookbook unfolded naturally, characterized by a sweet simplicity just like each of her recipes. In Honey & Jam, she presents more than 70 classic and contemporary, sweet and savory baked goods—from fresh cakes and trifles to breads and biscuits—all made with an imaginative mix of locally sourced, in-season ingredients. It all started when Hannah left college at 18 after deciding this wasn’t the best path for her. Desiring a creative outlet, she launched her blog—the original Honey & Jam—and began experimenting with baking and her new DSLR camera. She shared her triumphs and failures in the kitchen, as well as casual snapshots of her scenic surroundings in the Appalachian Mountains. Through this platform, her passions were born. Within a year, the Georgia…