Innholdsfortegnelse for January - February 2010 i Southern Lady

After the busy holiday season is finally over, I find a great amount of solace in these cold winter days. They are perfect for snuggling under a chenille throw—with a cup of hot tea in hand, of course—and mapping out plans for the year ahead. I peek at my garden, now frozen and sleeping, and think about all the wonderful possibilities. To fill the landscape with color throughout the year, green-thumb guru Erica Glasener shares some suggestions for a variety of plants and trees that can brighten your garden in any season. Bringing a touch of botanical bliss indoors, our longtime floral expert Dorothy McDaniel demonstrates an elegant arrangement of winter white as a nod to the frost and flakes associated with the season. You know how much I love…

” Southern Lady is simply wonderful. I have had the pleasure of receiving your magazine for a year (a gift from my childhood girlfriend of 40 years). We grew up with paper dolls, so the article [Collector’s Corner, November/December 2009] in the holiday issue was a special treat, as her granddaughters play with my ‘oldies.’ Thank you again for publishing such a pleasant and binding tie from generation to generation. “ Cynthia Butler Birmingham, Alabama Across the Miles We all know that our “story begins at home,” so I was delighted to see my hometown of Danville, Illinois, mentioned in the “Becoming a Southern Lady” essay [November/ December 2009]. I am a Danville transplant of 17 years to this region, and I am honored that you recognize the South has…

1 special delivery Use this reversible pillow to complement existing décor or create a new focal point. Stitch Pillow in Aqua, $100; Thomas Paul, thomaspaul.com. 2 jungle look Walk on the wild side with a stylish print that expresses playful sophistication. Zebra Print Square in Chocolate, $129; Elaine Smith, 561-863-3333; elainesmith.com. 3 brighter days Touches of botanic beauty fill January days with springtime splendor. Gingko Leaf on White Linen, $200; Dermond Peterson, dermondpeterson.com. 4 rhapsody h d in blue Luxurious texture, regal hues, and a romantic pattern combine for pure elegance. Juliette Pillow in Peacock, $59.95; Z Gallerie, 800-908-6748; zgallerie.com. 5 metallic strands Keep redecorating resolutions in line with this simply sleek and very versatile accent. Linear Chocolate Cushion, $25; Danica Studio, 888-632-6422; danicastudio.com. 6 flower power A classic motif in neutral tones makes this selection…

Form & Function Invest in containers to corral clutter. Savannah Utility Basket, $29; Pottery Barn; potterybarn. com. Locker Basket Letter Tray, $69; See Jane Work; seejanework.com. Tie stationery with ribbon to keep things neat. Thank You Notes; Sonia Davis Designs for Inviting Company; invitingco.com. All other paper items from Inflations & Invitations; shopinflations.com. Creative Space Turn a blank wall into an artistic canvas with wall stencils from Whitewall & Co. Change the look of a plain seagrass rug by layering it with a Moroccan rug for a mosaic of tones and textures. Bring in a desk with presence to make a statement, and add a plush chair and artwork to make the room more inviting. Fresh flowers and a French press, along with patterned boxes and book covers, help to…

When Rosemary Talbert Hopkins moved with her new husband to Washington, Georgia, more than 40 years ago, the South Carolina native made fast friends with a gracious neighbor. The neighbor—who became like a second mother—began presenting the blushing bride with handcrafted plates depicting ornate designs from Georgia’s storied past. Created in 1933, Georgia History Plates are prized possessions, gifted at holidays, weddings, birthdays, and other celebrations. Over the years Rosemary completed her treasured collection, and soon began heirloom sets for her own children. Then, over a family meal in 2007, Rosemary and her siblings began discussing history plates and wondering whether their native state, South Carolina, might produce them as well. When the search came up empty-handed, the Talbert trio—dubbed Siblings Three—set out to start their own. Siblings Three includes…

Finish this dessert with a sprinkling of confectioners’ sugar, or add a heart—with the help of a homemade stencil—as a sign of your love and affection. CHOCOLATE SOUFFLÉ Makes 6 individual soufflés 4 tablespoons butter, divided 1/2 cup sugar, divided 4 large eggs, separated 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 3/4 cup milk 3/4 cup chopped DOVE® Dark Chocolate Promises 1. Preheat oven to 350°. Coat the sides of 6 (1-cup) soufflé cups with 2 tablespoons butter and 1/4 cup sugar. Set aside. 2. In a small bowl, beat egg yolks at medium-high speed with an electric mixer until pale yellow. Set aside. 3. In a small saucepan, melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add flour, whisking until smooth. Whisking constantly, gradually add milk; cook for 1 to 2 minutes…

stacks of style For an occasion this special, get creative. In lieu of a traditional floral arrangement, stack a set of floral-printed gift boxes on a simple white cake stand. These artistic versions of favorite flowers don’t need watering, and the boxes can be used later to store potpourri, trinkets, or even love letters. Finish the look with festive flourishes and a sprinkling of red or pink foil-wrapped candies. hello doily Simple though they may be, paper doilies are quite versatile in their uses. While they were originally intended for displaying baked goods or lining boxes of chocolates, they also make beautiful embellishments for valentine cards and envelopes. Wrap a store-bought card envelope with a doily, then affifix with glue, or adhere one of these lacy papers to an envelope…

” Remember to look beyond just blooms, and choose selections with striking bark and fantastic leaves so your garden offers beauty throughout the year “. Dwarf Conifers Dwarf conifers offer evergreen foliage in shades of green, blue, and yellow and are perfect for pots or as anchors in the flower garden. When I think about elegant conifers, the many selections of hinoki cypress, Chameacyparis obtusa, come to mind. The variegated form ‘Nana Lutea’ reaches just 2 to 3 feet tall by 2 feet wide after 10 years. The flattened sprays of golden yellow on dark green foliage offer perennial beauty. For a year-round snowball effect, try Chameacyparis pisifera ‘Snow’, which grows 3 to 4 feet tall by 3 feet wide. Site it in full sun but provide afternoon shade for…

When considering classic vase arrangements, many of us are instantly drawn to the heady fragrance of roses and lilies or the vast possibilities of colors that bloom. But there is another, oft-overlooked element that also contributes to a memorable composition: texture. Just think of how it fills our closets and homes this time of year. Winter’s swirling winds have us dressed in knits, corduroys, and tweeds, and our interiors embrace warmth with quilted coverlets and fleece blankets, cableknit shams and cashmere throws. Drawing inspiration from such surrounds, combine the alluring ruffles of standard and peegee hydrangeas with the dainty, fannedout florets of Queen Anne’s Lace. Then accent larkspur’s gauzy layers with smooth-petaled lisanthus and French tulips. To really emphasize the contrasts, choose a soft, simple palette as I did with…

Elegance comes in many forms: crystal glassware with slender stems, golden-rimmed china with Asian scenes etched in cranberry red, votive candleholders with intricately carved designs. Gather all of these elements into one beautiful setting for an Asian-inspired table certain to start the New Year off on a creative note. Rather than a typical floral centerpiece, fill a rectangular-shaped planter with long, willowy stems of flowers and a few stalks of bamboo as a nod to the Eastern theme. Incorporate treasures from world travels or found pieces with enchanting details, such as berryand- butterfly sugar, creamer, and covered butter dish, to underscore the style of the Orient. Finish the look with pretty linens, then send guests home with Chinese scrolls that promise good fortune throughout the year. Eastern Accents Expand upon…

Raising a family in a small Texas town, Margaret Anne Smith taught more than manners and mending. The ever-stylish mother instilled the art of detail and design, of flowers and fashion, of color and collecting. Of course at that time, Margaret Anne had no way of knowing that she was mentoring a daughter who would one day become one of the nation’s most celebrated designers. Resourceful, creative, gracious, and refined, Margaret Anne was an inspiration in every sense of the word. “I’ve always had a natural instinct toward design,” says the awardwinning Jan Showers, “but truly my formal training was at my mother’s knee.” And for that, Margaret Anne has reason to be proud. Today, Jan’s clientele list reads like the who’s who of exquisite taste, as she balances three…

The Character of Your Carpet Tread barefoot across cool hardwood floors, and then step upon a genuine Old World carpet. Your feet immediately feel the warmth of wool. Place such a rug in a room, and you experience a visual warming of the space as well. Both Persian and Turkish carpets are hand-loomed, something an experienced eye will detect—and admire. In antique carpets from Iran or Turkey, there may be slight variations in the same color within the rug; in the past, wool was dyed with natural materials, coloring each vat of dye differently. New Persian and Turkish rugs, still loomed by hand, mimic these small color variances. Such imperfections give each carpet the character that so beautifully enhances your décor, whether the rug is spread on the floor, hung…

The Home of Andrew Low The Cotton King Sixteen-year-old Andrew Low arrived in Savannah in the late 1820s determined to seek his fortune. He quickly rose through the ranks of his uncle’s cotton firm to become a partner, running the Savannah operation and enjoying his hard-earned riches. He commissioned noted architect John Norris to build a stately three-story stucco-over-brick structure befitting his newfound stature, and the result was the striking Italianate home that sits at 329 Abercorn Street. During construction, Andrew’s first wife and son passed away, so the widower moved with his two young daughters into a beautiful but somber house. Five years later, joy returned to Andrew with his marriage to the vivacious Mary Cowper Stiles, whose mother, Eliza Mackay, counted Robert E. Lee among her beaux. The…

The Home of Juliette Gordon Low Courage, Confidence, and Character The Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, an English Regency–style double house at 10 E. Oglethorpe Street, was originally built in 1818 for Savannah mayor James Moore Wayne. While he intended for the structure to reflect his wealth and prominence in society, he also knew just where to cut corners. The stucco exterior was scored to give the illusion of costlier stone blocks while recessed elliptical arches are reminiscent of true arched windows without the expense. Wayne sold the house in 1831, and it eventually ended up in the hands of William Washington Gordon II and his wife, Eleanor. They were the parents of the inimitable Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA. It is easy to picture…

Nothing warms the heart and soul quite like generous helpings of hot and hearty comfort food, and serving such meals often brings about happy moments shared with friends and family. In a taste-tempting ode to this form of Southern comfort, these dynamic duos prove that two is defifinitely better than one. Many’s the long night I’ve dreamed of cheese— toasted, mostly. “ ” —Robert Louis Stevenson Roasted Tomato Soup Makes about 3 quarts 5 pounds Roma tomatoes, halved 1 large yellow onion, sliced 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced 1/2 inch thick 2 heads garlic, peeled 1/4 cup olive oil 11/2 teaspoons salt, divided 11/2 teaspoons ground black pepper, divided 2 quarts chicken broth 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper (optional) 1.…

FONTINA GRITS CAKES WITH CHIPOTLE SHRIMP Makes 11/2 dozen 31/4 cups chicken broth 11/2 cups quick-cooking grits 1 cup finely grated Fontina cheese 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 recipe Cilantro Cream (recipe follows) 2 tablespoons butter, melted 1/4 cup ketchup 11/2 tablespoons adobo sauce 2 teaspoons minced garlic 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 18 fresh jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on) 2 tablespoons olive oil Garnish: fresh cilantro 1. Line a 13x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper; set aside. 2. In a large saucepan, bring broth to a boil. Stir in grits, and return to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 5 minutes, or until grits are thickened, stirring occasionally. Add cheese, salt, and pepper, stirring until…

LAYERS OF LOVE: Sweet Auburn Bread Company Just one bite of Chef Sonya Jones’s signature sweet-potato cheesecake is all it takes to understand why this Georgia entrepreneur’s career path led straight to sweet success. Born and raised near the Sweet Auburn district of Atlanta, Chef Sonya was whipping up such delicious delights as Lemon-Cheese Layer Cake by the tender age of 12, and knew with absolute certainty that sharing her culinary talents was her life’s dream. After honing her skills at The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, Chef Sonya returned to the neighborhood she loved. A stint as an Italian pastry chef only underscored her desire to get back to her Southern food heritage. That yearning ultimately led to her acclaimed bakery business, Sweet Auburn Bread…

USE SOUTHERN LADY LINKS as a guide to learn more about our advertisers’ products/services. Visit southernladymagazine.com/links to order FREE information from our advertisers and to link directly to their Web sites. OR, CLIP OUT THE COUPON ON THIS PAGE, check the advertisers from whom you would like to receive FREE information, then fill in your name and address and mail it to the address provided. 100 BOUTIQUE BUSINESSES & SERVICES SEND ALL FROM CATEGORY 1 GEO.’S QUARTERS, LLC Geo.’s Quarters…Where we take pride in completing each occasion with a Southern smile. Gifts for weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, housewarming, or any other occasion. 2 GRANDMOTHER’S JOY Grandmother’s Joy is a specialty children’s boutique that has provided its customers with timeless, classic clothing for children since 1985. 3 JELLYBEANS CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE The fun…

After the busy holiday season is finally over, I find a great amount of solace in these cold winter days. They are perfect for snuggling under a chenille throw—with a cup of hot tea in hand, of course—and mapping out plans for the year ahead. I peek at my garden, now frozen and sleeping, and think about all the wonderful possibilities. To fill the landscape with color throughout the year, green-thumb guru Erica Glasener shares some suggestions for a variety of plants and trees that can brighten your garden in any season. Bringing a touch of botanical bliss indoors, our longtime floral expert Dorothy McDaniel demonstrates an elegant arrangement of winter white as a nod to the frost and flakes associated with the season. You know how much I love…

Cup of Comfort 1. Few things comfort body and soul like a steaming cup of tea, especially when it’s brewed from a floral Teas, $20 to $28; Dean 800-221-7714; deananddeluca. , ral blend. Green ean & DeLuca, anddeluca.com. 2. Close your eyes, and let your imagination take you to a patio in Tuscany as you sip from this Old World–design stoneware mug. Berry and Thread Mug in Butter Yellow, $27; Juliska, 888-414-8448; juliska.com. nd imagii i T i f hi Lounge in Style 3. Settle in with coffee and the Sunday paper while wearing this comfy combo of patterned cotton pajamas and slippers. Ashby Long Sleeve Pajama, $58, and Ashby Slippers, $26; Needham Lane, 413-623-6103; needhamlane.com. Wrap it Up 4. Slip on this supersoft ballet-length cotton robe, and feel the…

1 special delivery Use this reversible pillow to complement existing décor or create a new focal point. Stitch Pillow in Aqua, $100; Thomas Paul, thomaspaul.com. 2 jungle look Walk on the wild side with a stylish print that expresses playful sophistication. Zebra Print Square in Chocolate, $129; Elaine Smith, 561-863-3333; elainesmith.com. 3 brighter days Touches of botanic beauty fill January days with springtime splendor. Gingko Leaf on White Linen, $200; Dermond Peterson, dermondpeterson.com. 4 rhapsody h d in blue Luxurious texture, regal hues, and a romantic pattern combine for pure elegance. Juliette Pillow in Peacock, $59.95; Z Gallerie, 800-908-6748; zgallerie.com. 5 metallic strands Keep redecorating resolutions in line with this simply sleek and very versatile accent. Linear Chocolate Cushion, $25; Danica Studio, 888-632-6422; danicastudio.com. 6 flower power A classic motif in neutral tones makes this selection…

In the medieval days, a missive fastened with wax and imprinted with a personal seal promised that secret words exchanged by lovers would stay just between the two of them. A truly romantic notion, yes, but seals began with a much more practical application in mind. The practice of using wax seals can trace its beginnings to Biblical times when a ruler would stamp proclamations with a blob of hot wax, using a seal designed for his exclusive use. This seal made the document official and also identified the power that decreed it. This practice continued for centuries, spreading to Europe where signet rings bearing an individual’s distinctive seal served as his signature. These seals were so closely identified with a person that it was customary for the seals to…

When Rosemary Talbert Hopkins moved with her new husband to Washington, Georgia, more than 40 years ago, the South Carolina native made fast friends with a gracious neighbor. The neighbor—who became like a second mother—began presenting the blushing bride with handcrafted plates depicting ornate designs from Georgia’s storied past. Created in 1933, Georgia History Plates are prized possessions, gifted at holidays, weddings, birthdays, and other celebrations. Over the years Rosemary completed her treasured collection, and soon began heirloom sets for her own children. Then, over a family meal in 2007, Rosemary and her siblings began discussing history plates and wondering whether their native state, South Carolina, might produce them as well. When the search came up empty-handed, the Talbert trio—dubbed Siblings Three—set out to start their own. Siblings Three includes…

Shine a light on creativity with a clever vase-turned-candlestick. This look (as seen in the tablescape for Set to Serve on page 90) relies on glitz and sparkle to make a festive statement. Simply fifill a miniature vase with glitter and a leftover Christmas bauble (we chose one that resembles a star to represent hope for the coming year), and top it with a ribbon-wrapped votive. Adapt the idea to suit any occasion or season; for example, use candy hearts in the base for Valentine’s Day and clover confetti for Saint Patrick’s Day.…

Finish this dessert with a sprinkling of confectioners’ sugar, or add a heart—with the help of a homemade stencil—as a sign of your love and affection. CHOCOLATE SOUFFLÉ Makes 6 individual soufflés 4 tablespoons butter, divided 1/2 cup sugar, divided 4 large eggs, separated 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 3/4 cup milk 3/4 cup chopped DOVE® Dark Chocolate Promises 1. Preheat oven to 350°. Coat the sides of 6 (1-cup) soufflé cups with 2 tablespoons butter and 1/4 cup sugar. Set aside. 2. In a small bowl, beat egg yolks at medium-high speed with an electric mixer until pale yellow. Set aside. 3. In a small saucepan, melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add flour, whisking until smooth. Whisking constantly, gradually add milk; cook for 1 to 2 minutes…

“It was difficult, later, to think of a time when Betsy and Tacy had not been friends.” So begins the first book in the heartwarming series by adored author Maud Hart Lovelace, and so began a devoted following of generations of ladies—young and young at heart—who have been completely captivated by the wholesome world of Betsy Ray and the fictional town of Deep Valley, Minnesota. The simple stories take place a hundred years ago, and yet the tales told and the lessons learned are just as relevant in today’s world. Beginning when Betsy and Tacy are 5 years old, the books trace the girls’ steps from kindergarten through marriage, relating adventures and everyday life while celebrating the importance of family and friendship. It is practically a rite of passage for…

” Remember to look beyond just blooms, and choose selections with striking bark and fantastic leaves so your garden offers beauty throughout the year “. Dwarf conifers offer evergreen foliage in shades of green, blue, and yellow and are perfect for pots or as anchors in the flower garden. When I think about elegant conifers, the many selections of hinoki cypress, Chameacyparis obtusa, come to mind. The variegated form ‘Nana Lutea’ reaches just 2 to 3 feet tall by 2 feet wide after 10 years. The flattened sprays of golden yellow on dark green foliage offer perennial beauty. For a year-round snowball effect, try Chameacyparis pisifera ‘Snow’, which grows 3 to 4 feet tall by 3 feet wide. Site it in full sun but provide afternoon shade for the best…

I’ll be the first to admit I’m a pushover for just about anything with a monogram. There is something so intrinsically appealing about those beautifully curled and swirled initials that I fall in love immediately. It doesn’t even matter if it’s my own monogram; I appreciate them all. In Victorian times, monograms were used by the upper classes to denote their place in society. Since then, they have become quintessential symbols of personalization, especially for Southern ladies. We love to add our initials to linens and towels, to china and sterling silver. The most common format is to place the first letter of the surname in the center, flanked by the first name initial on the left and the middle or maiden name on the right. The center initial should…

Elegance comes in many forms: crystal glassware with slender stems, golden-rimmed china with Asian scenes etched in cranberry red, votive candleholders with intricately carved designs. Gather all of these elements into one beautiful setting for an Asian-inspired table certain to start the New Year off on a creative note. Rather than a typical floral centerpiece, fill a rectangular-shaped planter with long, willowy stems of flowers and a few stalks of bamboo as a nod to the Eastern theme. Incorporate treasures from world travels or found pieces with enchanting details, such as berryand- butterfly sugar, creamer, and covered butter dish, to underscore the style of the Orient. Finish the look with pretty linens, then send guests home with Chinese scrolls that promise good fortune throughout the year. Eastern Accents Expand upon…

At the end of a busy day, few things can calm and restore like a long steep in a bubble-filled tub. The bathroom becomes a sanctuary of sorts where you can soak away your stresses and escape the rigors of the real world. This private area offers an opportunity to step up the style in a room often overlooked when decorating a home. Imagine how much more inviting the room would feel if the tub were framed with sumptuous draperies, creating a lavish niche that feels like your own private spa. The talented team of Leigh Pate and Caterina Meadows of Pate-Meadows Designs sees the bathroom as a space with myriad opportunities to shine. And to that end, they designed beautiful curtains, topped with a silk-inset valance, that add a…

Raising a family in a small Texas town, Margaret Anne Smith taught more than manners and mending. The ever-stylish mother instilled the art of detail and design, of flowers and fashion, of color and collecting. Of course at that time, Margaret Anne had no way of knowing that she was mentoring a daughter who would one day become one of the nation’s most celebrated designers. Resourceful, creative, gracious, and refined, Margaret Anne was an inspiration in every sense of the word. “I’ve always had a natural instinct toward design,” says the awardwinning Jan Showers, “but truly my formal training was at my mother’s knee.” And for that, Margaret Anne has reason to be proud. Today, Jan’s clientele list reads like the who’s who of exquisite taste, as she balances three…

Hodgson Hall Margaret Telfair Hodgson wanted to honor her husband, William, with a fitting memoriam for the time and energy he had devoted to the Georgia Historical Society. To that end, this poignant project—begun by Margaret and finished by her sister, Mary Telfair—resulted in a handsome hall that serves as the GHS’s headquarters and houses a remarkable collection that includes 4 million manuscripts, 100,000 photographs, 15,000 rare books, and other irreplaceable documents. Situated in the northwest corner of Savannah’s famed Forsyth Park, Hodgson Hall is presided over by an impressive painting of the building’s namesake, painted by Carl Brandt in 1876. Ballastone Inn Hailed as Savannah’s “most romantic inn,” Ballastone is the choice of stars such as Robert Redford, Matt Damon, and Kevin Spacey, who love the Inn’s location in…

The Home of Andrew Low The Cotton King Sixteen-year-old Andrew Low arrived in Savannah in the late 1820s determined to seek his fortune. He quickly rose through the ranks of his uncle’s cotton firm to become a partner, running the Savannah operation and enjoying his hard-earned riches. He commissioned noted architect John Norris to build a stately three-story stucco-over-brick structure befitting his newfound stature, and the result was the striking Italianate home that sits at 329 Abercorn Street. During construction, Andrew’s first wife and son passed away, so the widower moved with his two young daughters into a beautiful but somber house. Five years later, joy returned to Andrew with his marriage to the vivacious Mary Cowper Stiles, whose mother, Eliza Mackay, counted Robert E. Lee among her beaux. The…

CARAMEL TO SHARE TURTLE PIE Makes 1 (9-inch) deep-dish pie 1 cup semisweet chocolate morsels 23/4 cups heavy whipping cream, divided 1 baked (9-inch) deep-dish pie crust (recipe follows) 1 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar 3 tablespoons butter 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup finely chopped pecans 1 cup miniature semisweet chocolate morsels 1/2 cup melted caramel* 1. In a small bowl, combine chocolate morsels and 1/4 cup cream. Microwave on High in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until chocolate is melted and smooth (about 1 minute total). Spread chocolate mixture evenly over bottom of baked pie crust; set aside to cool completely. 2. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, 1/2 cup cream, and butter over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring constantly, until sugar…

Nothing warms the heart and soul quite like generous helpings of hot and hearty comfort food, and serving such meals often brings about happy moments shared with friends and family. In a taste-tempting ode to this form of Southern comfort, these dynamic duos prove that two is defifinitely better than one. Many’s the long night I’ve dreamed of cheese— toasted, mostly. “ ” —Robert Louis Stevenson Roasted Tomato Soup Makes about 3 quarts 5 pounds Roma tomatoes, halved 1 large yellow onion, sliced 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced 1/2 inch thick 2 heads garlic, peeled 1/4 cup olive oil 11/2 teaspoons salt, divided 11/2 teaspoons ground black pepper, divided 2 quarts chicken broth 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper (optional) 1.…

The Gourmet Potluck by Beth Hensperger and photography by Scott Peterson Let’s face it: If there’s one place Southern ladies shine, it’s at a covered-dish dinner. We love the food, we adore the fellowship, and whether we admit it or not, we get a thrill from the friendly competition. Even if it’s just a family gathering and we all pull from the same cache of heirloom favorites, we still eagerly watch to see if our casserole dish is the first one emptied. The fact that this fare must feed a crowd, be prepared ahead of time, and, more often than not, survive cross-town transport only adds to the fun—and the challenge. It’s a challenge that caterer Beth Hensperger answers in her cookbook The Gourmet Potluck. In it, she brings 50…

USE SOUTHERN LADY LINKS as a guide to learn more about our advertisers’ products/services. Visit southernladymagazine.com/links to order FREE information from our advertisers and to link directly to their Web sites. OR, CLIP OUT THE COUPON ON THIS PAGE, check the advertisers from whom you would like to receive FREE information, then fill in your name and address and mail it to the address provided. 100 BOUTIQUE BUSINESSES & SERVICES SEND ALL FROM CATEGORY 1 GEO.’S QUARTERS, LLC Geo.’s Quarters…Where we take pride in completing each occasion with a Southern smile. Gifts for weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, housewarming, or any other occasion. 2 GRANDMOTHER’S JOY Grandmother’s Joy is a specialty children’s boutique that has provided its customers with timeless, classic clothing for children since 1985. 3 JELLYBEANS CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE The fun…

To purchase items featured in our articles, please refer to the information below. If an item is not listed, it is privately owned and not available for purchase. To contact the manufacturers and retail stores referenced below, see DIRECTORY OF COMPANIES. COVER Soup Bowl and Plate; Jars. DESIGN & STYLE: OFFICE ORGANIZATION PAGES 20-21: Morris Stevens Wall Stencils; Whitewall & Co. China White Paint Color (#I-74) and Copley Gray (#HC-104) Stencil Color; Benjamin Moore. Magistrate Desk by Four Hands and Bryant Floor Lamp by Visual Comfort & Co.; available at Tracery Interiors. Caledonia Dining Chair by Design Master and Painting; available at Richard Tubb Interiors. Antique Moroccan Rug and Pillow in desk chair; Paige Albright Orientals. Wooden Box; IKEA. Coffee Mug; Anthropologie. Gold Canvas Cover Organizer by Rag & Bone;…

” Southern Lady is simply wonderful. I have had the pleasure of receiving your magazine for a year (a gift from my childhood girlfriend of 40 years). We grew up with paper dolls, so the article [Collector’s Corner, November/December 2009] in the holiday issue was a special treat, as her granddaughters play with my ‘oldies.’ Thank you again for publishing such a pleasant and binding tie from generation to generation. “ Cynthia Butler Birmingham, Alabama Across the Miles We all know that our “story begins at home,” so I was delighted to see my hometown of Danville, Illinois, mentioned in the “Becoming a Southern Lady” essay [November/ December 2009]. I am a Danville transplant of 17 years to this region, and I am honored that you recognize the South has…

Cup of Comfort 1. Few things comfort body and soul like a steaming cup of tea, especially when it’s brewed from a floral Teas, $20 to $28; Dean 800-221-7714; deananddeluca. , ral blend. Green ean & DeLuca, anddeluca.com. 2. Close your eyes, and let your imagination take you to a patio in Tuscany as you sip from this Old World–design stoneware mug. Berry and Thread Mug in Butter Yellow, $27; Juliska, 888-414-8448; juliska.com. nd imagii i T i f hi Lounge in Style 3. Settle in with coffee and the Sunday paper while wearing this comfy combo of patterned cotton pajamas and slippers. Ashby Long Sleeve Pajama, $58, and Ashby Slippers, $26; Needham Lane, 413-623-6103; needhamlane.com. Wrap it Up 4. Slip on this supersoft ballet-length cotton robe, and feel the…

Form & Function Invest in containers to corral clutter. Savannah Utility Basket, $29; Pottery Barn; potterybarn.com. Locker Basket Letter Tray, $69; See Jane Work; seejanework.com. Tie stationery with ribbon to keep things neat. Thank You Notes; Sonia Davis Designs for Inviting Company; invitingco.com. All other paper items from Inflations & Invitations; shopinflations.com. Creative Space Turn a blank wall into an artistic canvas with wall stencils from Whitewall & Co. Change the look of a plain seagrass rug by layering it with a Moroccan rug for a mosaic of tones and textures. Bring in a desk with presence to make a statement, and add a plush chair and artwork to make the room more inviting. Fresh flowers and a French press, along with patterned boxes and book covers, help to blur…

In the medieval days, a missive fastened with wax and imprinted with a personal seal promised that secret words exchanged by lovers would stay just between the two of them. A truly romantic notion, yes, but seals began with a much more practical application in mind. The practice of using wax seals can trace its beginnings to Biblical times when a ruler would stamp proclamations with a blob of hot wax, using a seal designed for his exclusive use. This seal made the document official and also identified the power that decreed it. This practice continued for centuries, spreading to Europe where signet rings bearing an individual’s distinctive seal served as his signature. These seals were so closely identified with a person that it was customary for the seals to…

Shine a light on creativity with a clever vase-turned-candlestick. This look (as seen in the tablescape for Set to Serve on page 90) relies on glitz and sparkle to make a festive statement. Simply fifill a miniature vase with glitter and a leftover Christmas bauble (we chose one that resembles a star to represent hope for the coming year), and top it with a ribbon-wrapped votive. Adapt the idea to suit any occasion or season; for example, use candy hearts in the base for Valentine’s Day and clover confetti for Saint Patrick’s Day.…

stacks of style For an occasion this special, get creative. In lieu of a traditional floral arrangement, stack a set of floral-printed gift boxes on a simple white cake stand. These artistic versions of favorite flowers don’t need watering, and the boxes can be used later to store potpourri, trinkets, or even love letters. Finish the look with festive flourishes and a sprinkling of red or pink foil-wrapped candies. hello doily Simple though they may be, paper doilies are quite versatile in their uses. While they were originally intended for displaying baked goods or lining boxes of chocolates, they also make beautiful embellishments for valentine cards and envelopes. Wrap a store-bought card envelope with a doily, then affifix with glue, or adhere one of these lacy papers to an envelope…

“It was difficult, later, to think of a time when Betsy and Tacy had not been friends.” So begins the first book in the heartwarming series by adored author Maud Hart Lovelace, and so began a devoted following of generations of ladies—young and young at heart—who have been completely captivated by the wholesome world of Betsy Ray and the fictional town of Deep Valley, Minnesota. The simple stories take place a hundred years ago, and yet the tales told and the lessons learned are just as relevant in today’s world. Beginning when Betsy and Tacy are 5 years old, the books trace the girls’ steps from kindergarten through marriage, relating adventures and everyday life while celebrating the importance of family and friendship. It is practically a rite of passage for…

When considering classic vase arrangements, many of us are instantly drawn to the heady fragrance of roses and lilies or the vast possibilities of colors that bloom. But there is another, oft-overlooked element that also contributes to a memorable composition: texture. Just think of how it fills our closets and homes this time of year. Winter’s swirling winds have us dressed in knits, corduroys, and tweeds, and our interiors embrace warmth with quilted coverlets and fleece blankets, cableknit shams and cashmere throws. Drawing inspiration from such surrounds, combine the alluring ruffles of standard and peegee hydrangeas with the dainty, fannedout florets of Queen Anne’s Lace. Then accent larkspur’s gauzy layers with smooth-petaled lisanthus and French tulips. To really emphasize the contrasts, choose a soft, simple palette as I did with…

I’ll be the first to admit I’m a pushover for just about anything with a monogram. There is something so intrinsically appealing about those beautifully curled and swirled initials that I fall in love immediately. It doesn’t even matter if it’s my own monogram; I appreciate them all. In Victorian times, monograms were used by the upper classes to denote their place in society. Since then, they have become quintessential symbols of personalization, especially for Southern ladies. We love to add our initials to linens and towels, to china and sterling silver. The most common format is to place the first letter of the surname in the center, flanked by the first name initial on the left and the middle or maiden name on the right. The center initial should…

At the end of a busy day, few things can calm and restore like a long steep in a bubble-filled tub. The bathroom becomes a sanctuary of sorts where you can soak away your stresses and escape the rigors of the real world. This private area offers an opportunity to step up the style in a room often overlooked when decorating a home. Imagine how much more inviting the room would feel if the tub were framed with sumptuous draperies, creating a lavish niche that feels like your own private spa. The talented team of Leigh Pate and Caterina Meadows of Pate-Meadows Designs sees the bathroom as a space with myriad opportunities to shine. And to that end, they designed beautiful curtains, topped with a silk-inset valance, that add a…

The Character of Your Carpet Tread barefoot across cool hardwood floors, and then step upon a genuine Old World carpet. Your feet immediately feel the warmth of wool. Place such a rug in a room, and you experience a visual warming of the space as well. Both Persian and Turkish carpets are hand-loomed, something an experienced eye will detect—and admire. In antique carpets from Iran or Turkey, there may be slight variations in the same color within the rug; in the past, wool was dyed with natural materials, coloring each vat of dye differently. New Persian and Turkish rugs, still loomed by hand, mimic these small color variances. Such imperfections give each carpet the character that so beautifully enhances your décor, whether the rug is spread on the floor, hung…

Hodgson Hall Margaret Telfair Hodgson wanted to honor her husband, William, with a fitting memoriam for the time and energy he had devoted to the Georgia Historical Society. To that end, this poignant project—begun by Margaret and finished by her sister, Mary Telfair—resulted in a handsome hall that serves as the GHS’s headquarters and houses a remarkable collection that includes 4 million manuscripts, 100,000 photographs, 15,000 rare books, and other irreplaceable documents. Situated in the northwest corner of Savannah’s famed Forsyth Park, Hodgson Hall is presided over by an impressive painting of the building’s namesake, painted by Carl Brandt in 1876. Ballastone Inn Hailed as Savannah’s “most romantic inn,” Ballastone is the choice of stars such as Robert Redford, Matt Damon, and Kevin Spacey, who love the Inn’s location in…

The Home of Juliette Gordon Low Courage, Confidence, and Character The Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, an English Regency–style double house at 10 E. Oglethorpe Street, was originally built in 1818 for Savannah mayor James Moore Wayne. While he intended for the structure to reflect his wealth and prominence in society, he also knew just where to cut corners. The stucco exterior was scored to give the illusion of costlier stone blocks while recessed elliptical arches are reminiscent of true arched windows without the expense. Wayne sold the house in 1831, and it eventually ended up in the hands of William Washington Gordon II and his wife, Eleanor. They were the parents of the inimitable Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA. It is easy to picture…

CARAMEL TO SHARE TURTLE PIE Makes 1 (9-inch) deep-dish pie 1 cup semisweet chocolate morsels 23/4 cups heavy whipping cream, divided 1 baked (9-inch) deep-dish pie crust (recipe follows) 1 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar 3 tablespoons butter 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup finely chopped pecans 1 cup miniature semisweet chocolate morsels 1/2 cup melted caramel* 1. In a small bowl, combine chocolate morsels and 1/4 cup cream. Microwave on High in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until chocolate is melted and smooth (about 1 minute total). Spread chocolate mixture evenly over bottom of baked pie crust; set aside to cool completely. 2. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, 1/2 cup cream, and butter over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring constantly, until sugar…

FONTINA GRITS CAKES WITH CHIPOTLE SHRIMP Makes 11/2 dozen 31/4 cups chicken broth 11/2 cups quick-cooking grits 1 cup finely grated Fontina cheese 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 recipe Cilantro Cream (recipe follows) 2 tablespoons butter, melted 1/4 cup ketchup 11/2 tablespoons adobo sauce 2 teaspoons minced garlic 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 18 fresh jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on) 2 tablespoons olive oil Garnish: fresh cilantro 1. Line a 13x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper; set aside. 2. In a large saucepan, bring broth to a boil. Stir in grits, and return to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 5 minutes, or until grits are thickened, stirring occasionally. Add cheese, salt, and pepper, stirring until…

Let’s face it: If there’s one place Southern ladies shine, it’s at a covered-dish dinner. We love the food, we adore the fellowship, and whether we admit it or not, we get a thrill from the friendly competition. Even if it’s just a family gathering and we all pull from the same cache of heirloom favorites, we still eagerly watch to see if our casserole dish is the first one emptied. The fact that this fare must feed a crowd, be prepared ahead of time, and, more often than not, survive cross-town transport only adds to the fun—and the challenge. It’s a challenge that caterer Beth Hensperger answers in her cookbook The Gourmet Potluck. In it, she brings 50 recipes to the table, every one of them developed with wide…

LAYERS OF LOVE: Sweet Auburn Bread Company Just one bite of Chef Sonya Jones’s signature sweet-potato cheesecake is all it takes to understand why this Georgia entrepreneur’s career path led straight to sweet success. Born and raised near the Sweet Auburn district of Atlanta, Chef Sonya was whipping up such delicious delights as Lemon-Cheese Layer Cake by the tender age of 12, and knew with absolute certainty that sharing her culinary talents was her life’s dream. After honing her skills at The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, Chef Sonya returned to the neighborhood she loved. A stint as an Italian pastry chef only underscored her desire to get back to her Southern food heritage. That yearning ultimately led to her acclaimed bakery business, Sweet Auburn Bread…

To purchase items featured in our articles, please refer to the information below. If an item is not listed, it is privately owned and not available for purchase. To contact the manufacturers and retail stores referenced below, see DIRECTORY OF COMPANIES. COVER Soup Bowl and Plate; Jars. DESIGN & STYLE: OFFICE ORGANIZATION PAGES 20-21: Morris Stevens Wall Stencils; Whitewall & Co. China White Paint Color (#I-74) and Copley Gray (#HC-104) Stencil Color; Benjamin Moore. Magistrate Desk by Four Hands and Bryant Floor Lamp by Visual Comfort & Co.; available at Tracery Interiors. Caledonia Dining Chair by Design Master and Painting; available at Richard Tubb Interiors. Antique Moroccan Rug and Pillow in desk chair; Paige Albright Orientals. Wooden Box; IKEA. Coffee Mug; Anthropologie. Gold Canvas Cover Organizer by Rag & Bone;…