A neutral color palette creates a delightful little vignette on any side table or bookcase shelf and highlights areas that may be lacking visual appeal. I was particularly happy with the unexpected grouping that came together on my chicken coupe coffee table. The formula is quite simple and consists of old newsprint (shocker), a small…Continue Reading “Create a Seasonal Vignette”
Sometimes simple is the best. Especially when showcasing high-quality collections of china, ironstone, or unique specimens of gourds, pumpkins, and acorns. To create an easy centerpiece for any occasion from a weeknight dinner to a full-blown party, a bit of layering is all that you need to master. Begin by choosing a focal point of…Continue Reading “Simple Fall Centerpiece”
If you haven’t already you need to check the October issue of Alabama Gardener. In this issue, I co-host a fabulous Fall Garden Party with one of my best drinking friends, Peggy. Pick up your copy and see just how we did it. In the meantime, here are some of my favorite ways to entertain…Continue Reading “Entertain Outdoors Like A Boss”
Sometimes potato salad can just lack texture. It becomes something more along the line of glorified mashed potatoes. Not to mention that potato salad can sometimes be monochromatic. A simple remedy to these little problems is an easy fix. Rather than boiling the hell out of your potatoes, roast them instead. This adds a delightfully…Continue Reading “Roasted Potato Salad”
As the final days of summer draw to a close and the hint of fall is in the air; celebrate by hosting an adventurous camping themed party that’s a bit on the glamorous side. You don’t have to travel deep into the wilderness for such an occasion, a backyard or even your kitchen can be…Continue Reading “Labor Day Glamping”
Celebrating the upcoming Solar Eclipse deserves a decadent cocktail. The Blackout slides in somewhere between a mudslide and a milkshake. Innocent enough while packing a punch, The Blackout could only be topped off with a bit of whipped cream and a marshmallow Moon Pie! RECIPE: THE BLACKOUT INGREDIENTS: 1 cup ice 1 cup vanilla ice…Continue Reading “The Blackout”
As the cantaloupes ripen on the vine in the hot summer sun; my mind immediately wanders away from this beautiful moment and gravitates directly to booze. I mean, one has to stay hydrated after all. Fresh cantaloupe is just the right amount of sweet and refreshing. Its unique taste is only enhanced when pureed and…Continue Reading “Cantaloupe Martini”
A New England clambake is quintessentially American and brings together friends, families, and neighbors like no other. A traditional mix of lobster, mussels, clams, crabs, or quahogs mingles together with corn, potatoes, and sausage in a glorious mix of coastal spices right on the sand. But just because we are in the South doesn’t mean…Continue Reading “Southern Style Clambake”
Summer is in full swing, and the temperatures just keep on climbing. At least here in Alabama. But, in my opinion, it’s never too hot to throw together a summer soiree. All you need is a nice shade tree, the right refreshments, and of course a beautiful centerpiece. Summer flowers have such a delicate, airy…Continue Reading “Bright & Airy Summer Centerpiece”
You know the saying, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” But not any old lemonade. If you’re given lemons in the summer, chances are you’ve also got some basil and a little vodka on hand. By creating an easy, basil infused simple syrup and combining with a tart lemon flavor; you’ll be so happy…Continue Reading “Basil Lemonade”