Indholdsfortegnelse for March - April 2015 i Southern Lady

LOVE TO ESCAPE Southern Lady is one of my favorite magazines. I look forward to each issue. I have especially enjoyed your features on weekend getaways in charming Southern towns. It gives me fresh ideas and great tips on where to spend our next family vacation. Christie Rierson Birmingham, Alabama TRUE ROOTS I’m a “Southern girl” born and bred, and your magazine makes me proud of that every time I receive one. Deborah Cummings Glen Allen, Virginia FROM OUR STAFF: INSTAGRAM PICTURES Take a peek behind the scenes at the daily inspiration and humorous happenings that come together to make the pages of Southern Lady.…

When Patrick O’Connell was growing up in Washington, D.C., his parents would take the family on excursions through central Virginia to the Shenandoah Valley. These were the days before widespread interstate highways, when small towns littered with gas stations and restaurants served as important stopping points for travelers crossing the country. Though Patrick had no way of knowing it then, he would later make a tire shop in the small drive-through town of Washington, Virginia, into his own special corner of the world. More specifically, Patrick has spent the past 37 years transforming the intersection of Main Street and Warren Avenue into a retreat called the Inn at Little Washington. The endeavor began in 1978, when he opened a restaurant in the former service station. A self-taught chef, he set…

WHEN IT COMES TO COLOR, spring offers a prismatic plethora. There’s no need to account for the whole rainbow, though. Instead, highlight the season’s beauty by focusing on your favorite hue. Here, petals in a spectrum of violets perform a vibrant solo act in a milk-glass container. Redbud branches with their pink floral frills make a delicate ascent from a bed of fuchsia anemone and purple lily magnolia. To create balance, a few sprigs of fresh greenery and creamy-white camellia blossoms offer both neutrals and a splash of contrasting color.…

ENDURING BEAUTY Update a room with an antique French reproduction bergère that boasts an air of elegance. Helena Chair I, $498.95; Soft Surroundings, softsurroundings.com. TOUCH OF CLASS Details such as shapely arms and legs give sophisticated style to this versatile piece of furniture. Brant Chair, $1,219; Ethan Allen, ethanallen.com. SNAZZY SEAT Delicate carved details on a beautifully upholstered chair will be an eye-catching addition to your living space. Virginia Arm Chair, $999; High Fashion Home, highfashionhome.com. HIGH STYLE Preserve a spring feeling year-round with statement chairs in vibrant colors and modern lines. Avery Antiqued Ivory Chair in Floral Vine, $1,187.50, Emporium Home Sophie Chair in Coral, $3,570; Candelabra, shopcandelabra.com.…

WHERE CREOLE MEETS CAJUN As a natural crossroad for Louisianians, Baton Rouge is a miniature melting pot for the state’s culinary traditions. As the Capital Cravings trail winds from Plantation Country in the east to the plains of Acadiana in the west, it becomes clear that this is where Creole culture meets Cajun. From roadside joints to fine dining restaurants, diners will find chefs making the most of area products. Local farms, including Iverstine Family Farms in Kentwood, supply Baton Rouge area restaurants with grass-fed beef and pastured poultry and hogs. From late winter through early summer, crawfish get top billing around the Capital Cravings Trail. From Hot Tails in New Roads, where they farm their own crawfish, to Tony’s Seafood Market in Baton Rouge, where customers can find them…

Historical Charm In a tradition celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, Eufaula’s spring pilgrimage has earned the title of Alabama’s Oldest Tour of Homes. Nestled in the town’s historic district, the Rhodes-Davis home is a must-see on the tour. The charming abode’s heart-pine floors, high gable roof, and gingerbread trimming—which includes ornate wisteria, Rose of Sharon, and fleur-de-lis design motifs—are just a few details that current owners Cynthia and Mike Davis adore. Cheerful pink roses blossom around the cottage’s yard, adding a fragrant and colorful welcome for family and friends alike. A gracious front porch with potted hanging ferns—a Southern staple—beckons neighbors to enjoy a chat and a pleasant vernal breeze. In the springtime, the couple enjoys accenting the home’s gardens with features and frills like colorfully potted annuals, birdhouses,…

GLORIOUS DAY Neutral tones and natural accents work together to form the foundation of this gathering designed with rejoicing in mind. Heirloom linens with cheery embroidery pair with mix-and-match dinnerware in pale hues of blue. Farm-fresh eggs in ceramic containers scattered about the table act as subtle nods to Easter traditions, and pretty petals add to the joyous atmosphere. GREAT REJOICING A menu composed of light and lively delights suits this merry occasion. Seasonal ingredients add color to the table and create a veritable symphony of springtime bliss. A few simple yet artful garnishes work together to truly make the setting sing. LOVE ABOUNDS A spring day outdoors is absolutely divine! Decorating is a breeze when you set up an entertaining area amid blossoms and boughs, and personal accents such…

SMOKY CHEESE STRAWS MAKES ABOUT 5 DOZEN 1 (8-ounce) block smoked Cheddar cheese, shredded 1 (8-ounce) round smoked Gouda cheese, shredded 1 cup butter, softened 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon smoked paprika ½ teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon ground red pepper 1. In a medium bowl, combine cheeses and butter. Beat at medium speed with a mixer until well combined. 2. In a small bowl, combine flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and red pepper. Gradually add flour mixture to cheese mixture until just combined. Wrap dough in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 2 hours. 3. Preheat oven to 350°. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. 4. On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to a ¼-inch thickness. Using a pizza cutter or knife, cut dough…

Colorful Crunch For a creative make-and-take side dish for casual get-togethers and Easter church potlucks, try this colorful update on classic carrot salad. If yellow carrots are not available, orange carrots may be substituted. SAVORY CARROT BREAD MAKES 1 (9-INCH) LOAF 2½ cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda ¾ teaspoon salt 1½ cups carrot puree 1½ cups plus ¼ cup finely grated Gruyère cheese, divided 3 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme 1½ cups whole buttermilk ½ cup butter, melted 2 large eggs ½ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper 1. Preheat oven to 350°. Spray a 9x5-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray. 2. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir in carrot puree, 1½ cups cheese, and thyme. 3. In…

Coastal Family Fare After years of serving their signature crab dip to rave reviews from friends and family, Tony and Tracy Blanchard took a leap of faith in 2012 and launched Big T Coastal Provisions. The name comes from Tony’s 6-foot-5 stature, while the recipe—a creamy blend of tender claw meat, cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and spices—is a longtime family favorite. Says Tracy, “Tony learned the recipe from his mom, who learned it from her mother.” Big T Coastal Provisions has since expanded beyond the family’s hometown of Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina, and can be purchased in select grocery stores throughout the South. Besides the traditional and spicy jalapeño flavors, a special shrimp variety is also available. The best part of the family recipe, Tracy says, is its versatility. “You…

Silver-white winters that melt into springs—it’s one of my favorite things! Gardens coming to life with bright blooms signal warmer weather and longer days. I can hardly wait to spend more time outside hosting parties with friends and making cherished memories. Our annual entertaining issue of Southern Lady is overflowing with inspiration to start the season of renewal on a gracious note. From garden gatherings to bridal luncheons and bee-inspired birthdays, we are just buzzing with bright ideas for entertaining. With Easter right around the corner, enjoy savory and sweet carrot dishes in Recipe Box, and in Pretty Things, an array of lovely gift ideas for that special hostess. Planning a weekend escape? Whisk away with us to Leesburg, Virginia, where Southern beauty abounds with historical charm. Or if you…

THE INSPIRATION With beautiful details, such as the scalloped edge and beaded rim, it’s no surprise this handcrafted plate was created by an Italian fashion designer. It provides plenty of interest on its own, yet also serves as a versatile companion to other patterns. Bella Bianca Beaded Dinner Plate, $45; Arte Italica, arteitalica.com. ELEGANT OPTIONS Regal esprit takes wing with this gold-rimmed salad plate. Pair it with an aqua linen and scalloped charger for a polished look. Continue the color-rich display with a raspberry-hued goblet and a radiant tablecloth that match the season’s brilliant blooms. Orchid Salad Plate by Wedgwood, $160, Aqua Napkin by Traditions Linens, $28, Barcelona Raspberry Goblet by Varga, $248, Flatware by Yamazaki, $59.99 for 5-piece place setting; Bromberg & Co., brombergs.com. Bella Bianca Filigree Charger Plate,…

Growing up among the antiques markets and colonial architecture of Lynchburg, Virginia, Barbara Westbrook couldn’t avoid acquiring an appreciation for good design. Her mother regularly brought her and her brother along while shopping for well-made old furniture, and she spent much of her free time at her grandmother’s clapboard house with its carefully curated selection. “People didn’t care about their cars, but they cared about their homes and their antiques,” Barbara reflects. “You can’t help but absorb it.” What started as a childhood spent sketching in a history-rich environment has since translated into nearly 30 years of professional design. Now, with her first book, Barbara Westbrook: Gracious Rooms, the Atlanta-based interior designer shares some of her most inspiring work. The book features 10 homes that Barbara and her team completely…

As spring’s warmer temperatures bring new blooms, greener grass, and the return of chirping birds after their southward journey, nature’s flourishes of color and song also inspire indoor updates. Arrangements of fresh flowers on the table and china in pastel hues complement the season. For an added touch of homespun charm, Leigh Pate of Pate-Meadows Designs brought a bit of fancy to her spring tablescapes with this straightforward project. Cutting a strip of teal cotton, she sewed down the center and gathered the fabric along the seam to create a dainty ruffle. Leigh then used iron-on adhesive seaming tape to add the frilly accent to a raw linen runner and napkins. Like a breath of fresh air, the simple addition brings new life to otherwise plain accessories. The technique can…

Verdant Grace The luscious look of the Kent Green transferware pattern by Wedgwood sings with fresh springtime elegance when paired with simple lavender linens and hobnail-inspired tumblers. A natural woven napkin ring gives a bit of texture and casual rustic flair to the setting, while an easy garden-fresh arrangement of daisies in a complementary green container adds a sweet floral note. Floral Fancy The blue band and dainty floral accents of Lenox’s Meadowbrook pattern receive a stylishly modern update with linens in classic spring green. A plain place mat acts as a grassy surround for the flowered china. Graphic patterned napkins and basic stemmed glasses lend an elegant flair. A gold tray and simple spray of hydrangea blooms complete the look. Inspiration Plates For this edition of our annual feature,…

SOW THOUGHTFUL Use this easy idea to create a memorable place-setting detail that doubles as a take-home favor. Start with a small flowerpot that coordinates with your table décor. Then add a seed packet or two for herbs or easy-to-grow annuals, as well as garden helps, such as flower snips and plant markers. To finish, dress up the container with a pretty twine bow, attaching a name card if desired. GARDEN VEGETABLE SALAD MAKES 12 TO 16 SERVINGS 4 yellow squash, quartered and sliced ½-inch thick 1 (12-ounce) bag broccoli florets, blanched 1 (10-ounce) bag cauliflower florets 2 pints grape tomatoes 1 seedless cucumber, diced 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped 1 red bell pepper, chopped 1 bunch green onions, chopped 2 cups matchstick carrots Oregano Vinaigrette (recipe follows) 1. In…

SWEET AND TART Citrus flavors and hues abound on this charming spring table. The sumptuous center arrangement borrows its palette from groves of lime and grapefruit trees. Yellow lemons lend a sunshiny cheer to a sea-and-sand-inspired background of blue and white. Dainty watercolored place cards attached to toothpicks stand up like sails in the sliced lemon “boats” at each setting. LEMON RICE WITH SPRING ONIONS AND GOAT CHEESE MAKES 8-10 SERVINGS 2½ tablespoons unsalted butter, divided 1½ tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 3 spring or green onions, thinly sliced 2 cups Arborio rice 6¼ cups hot chicken broth 1 tablespoon chopped parsley 1 tablespoon chopped thyme Juice and zest of 1 lemon 1 (4-ounce) package goat cheese crumbles Salt Freshly ground black pepper Garnish: chopped parsley 1. In a large saucepan…

From performing chart-topping hits for millions of fans to hosting family and friends in her Nashville home, Martina McBride knows how to work a crowd. “If I weren’t a performer, I think I would love to be a party planner,” the singer writes in her cookbook, Around the Table, Recipes and Inspiration for Gatherings Throughout the Year. Every aspect of planning a gathering—designing the invitation, creating a menu, and setting the scene—speaks to her creative side. With roots in Sharon, Kansas—a town with a population of less than 200—Martina grew up eating “simple food” like casseroles, Salisbury steak, and hamburgers. “While I have experienced a lot of different foods and flavors in my life and travels, I fondly remember those meals around my family’s table during the ’70s and ’80s,”…

Nestled among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Leesburg, Virginia, has spent more than two centuries honing its small-town charm. Some of its oldest structures remain intact downtown, where colorful boutiques and stylish restaurants continue to fill the historic spaces. Nearby, antebellum homes like Morven Park and the Oatlands Plantation offer museums, nature trails, and lush gardens. The area’s fruitful soil has more recently placed Leesburg at the center of Washington, D.C.’s wine country. Thomas Jefferson was among the first Americans to envision a strong viticulture for Virginia, but that dream is only now becoming a reality. There are some 35 wineries in the Leesburg area, including the recently opened Stone Tower Winery, where visitors can tour the vineyard and sample vintages like Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and…

EDITOR’S FAVORITES PAGE 15: Sweet Tea Party Dress; ModCloth. NEW LOOKS FOR OLD CHINA PAGES 67-72: (Page 68) Kent Green China by Wedgwood; Replacements, Ltd. Lavender Festival Linen Napkin and Place Mat; Sferra. Pandan Basket Weave Napkin Ring; World Market. (Page 69) Meadowbrook China by Lenox; Replacements, Ltd. Grass Ruffle Place Mat, Bargello Grass Napkin; Hen House Linens. Classic Clear Iced Tea Glass by Puccinelli; Vietri. (Page 70) Golden Wedding-Cream China by Coalport; Replacements, Ltd. Navy Kaleidoscope Place Mat; Kim Seybert. Classic Stitched Napkin; Sur La Table (available seasonally). Threshold Flatware by Izon; Target. Hobnail Glasses; Rosanna, Inc. (Page 71) Old Imari China by Royal Crown Derby; Replacements, Ltd. Herringbone Napkin, Spider Beaded Burst Napkin Ring; Kim Seybert. (Page 72) Old Country Roses China from Royal Albert; Replacements, Ltd. Fez…

Every year, our team looks forward to planning the parties and tablescapes featured in this issue. We draw inspiration from experiences shared with our own friends and family, and we also try to bring you fresh takes on themes, décor, and recipes to help you round out your entertaining repertoire. This issue also features a plethora of lovely tablescapes, including a beautiful and breezy springtime meal starring one of my favorite colors, lavender. The story begins on page 103, and be sure to take a look at our version of the classic Coconut Cake on page 109. We love to serve this confection at Easter parties—but it’s such a delicious dessert that you’ll likely get requests for it throughout the season and beyond. So without further ado, let’s start celebrating!…

Over the years, I’ve come to cherish my collection of hand-stitched linens. Intricate embroidery and lace detail add something special to everyday household items. And with a new season of entertaining upon us, what better time to bring out these favorite heirloom linens for guests to enjoy? I like to display mine in the powder room, where they can be pretty with a purpose. White-on-white hand towels, like the ones shown above, highlight artistic letterform, while scripted initials in cheerful hues cast a cozy scene in the kitchen. Such linens also make delightful hostess gifts! Keep an eye out for these enduring accents when antiquing or perusing estate sales, and tuck them away for times when you need a special token of gratitude.…

WHERE CREOLE MEETS FARMLAND For centuries, the Northshore has been a relaxing vacation retreat with its picturesque lakefront and moss-draped live oaks. The area’s farmers and fishermen have always been closely connected with nearby chefs, and lately have expanded their offerings. Area restaurants and markets offer fresh, free-range pork and duck from family-run farms such as Chappapeela Farms. Chappapeela’s sister farm, Covey Rise, has partnered with area chefs to produce dozens of specialty and heirloom fruits and vegetables, keeping Northshore restaurants on the cutting edge of flavor. Meanwhile in Lake Pontchartrain, fishermen, shrimpers and oystermen harvest the fresh seafood that diners demand. From beautiful chef-driven seafood dishes at Oxlot 9 and Del Porto Ristorante to Oysters Ooh La La at La Provence, seafood lovers will be right at home. CHEF…

SUNDAY BEST GROWING TOGETHER BEE IS FOR BIRTHDAY SOMETHING BLUE CITRUS SPLASH Spring has arrived, bringing with it another joyful season of entertaining. A fresh and festive Easter luncheon delights with lovely and simple ideas. Citrus sweets flavor a casual weekday gathering. And from a little girl’s bee-inspired birthday to an alfresco garden club social to a dainty and delightful bridal shower, we have even more decoration inspiration and party recipes to help make your special moments and everyday celebrations memorable.…

Lovely Surrounds With a sky painted blue and spring unfurling all around, Mother Nature has done most of the decorating for you. All you need to do is supply a table laden with pretty things. Make the day feel extra-special with a pristine white tablecloth and a stunning arrangement of peonies, Lenten roses, and lilac. Then bring out your favorite china and stemware to complement a menu perfectly suited to this splendid occasion. GRILLED CHICKEN SALAD WITH GRILLED PEACH VINAIGRETTE MAKES 6 SERVINGS 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon ground black pepper 1 head green leaf lettuce, washed and torn 1 (4-ounce) bag watercress, stems removed 1 (4-ounce) bag arugula 6 small ripe peaches, pitted, sliced 2 pints fresh raspberries 1 cup…

See the South JUST A FEW HOURS’ DRIVE IN ANY DIRECTION all around the South, you’ll find enough to see and do for a lifetime of vacations. Grab a couple of girlfriends, arrange a family reunion, or sneak away yourself to any one of the destinations profiled in this special travel section. Throughout the South, cities are teeming with festivals, hot new restaurants, museums and nightlife. There are also relaxing indulgences like spa destinations, luxury mountain retreats, and natural attractions both breathtaking and awe-inspiring. The lure of the South extends through its delicious food, beautiful scenery and Southerners themselves. Welcome to the South, where hospitality reigns. Sip and Savor the Flavors of Florida’s Gulf Coast SPRINGTIME IS THE RIGHT TIME TO PAY A VISIT to Florida’s Gulf Coast, and if…