The Needlepoint Queen

Needlepoint has been around since the 15th century and has developed so much over the past 400 plus years.  From a learned "accomplishment" to a treasured gift for another the art has not lost its charm but in fact has only grown more popular.  With the help of Tory Burch, Jonathan Adler and antique auctions you can add some adorable pillows to your decor.  From Smathers & Branson you can purchase belts and key fobs and from Stubbs & Wooten you can snag amazing needlepoint loafers and darling bags.  Needlepoint has never been more popular!

Vacation Essentials

I have started to pack for our trip to the beach. We leave bright and early on Saturday for a week in Sea Island and we are all so excited.  A week away to relax, refresh and regroup ... is there anything better?

Let's get this week started!

I am a crazy packer.  I pack well in advance so the fact that I just started is alarming. I have lists galore for everything from the camera (old school for Lawyer) to daily snacks and every single thing in between.  We are renting a house so that makes our trip a lot easier, but I still like to have so many things from home.  Let's just say the words ... I am an over packer.

White Jeans || Beach Hat || Bathing suit || Glasses || Jack Rogers || Bag 

Sunscreen || Shorts || Converse || Book

When it comes to vacation I spend more time packing stuff than I do clothes.  I am pretty simple when it comes to my outfits; shorts with pattern shirts for the days with either flip flops or converse and white jeans and simple tunics for the nights with my gold Jack Rogers. Since we are heading to the beach and the pool I have pulled a few swim suits and a variety of tunics to wear over.  My goal is to completely relax, so my hair will be up on top of my head 90% of the time and I will fancy it up with a scarf for the evenings.  It is time to truly take a vacation!!

Follow along on Instastories today and tomorrow to see how packing comes together for the Minears. I have some fun tips that work for us along with some questions for you all.  I have snagged a Elin Hildebrand book for myself, but I would love a few more to read while we are gone.  I read in the car so I need one for the ride down, one for the ride back and two to read while we are there.

I am off to get started pulling this vacation together.  Need to wash some clothes and pull some cute outfit combinations.  If you have book recs, let me know!

Happy Thursday!!

Introducing Room 422

One of many amazing creative companies I met during The Southern C Summit this year was the amazing duo of Room 422. As I shared on The Southern C blog I was first introduced to this company during a newly introduced pitch session.  A limited number of companies were chosen to pitch their business plans and introduce themselves to a well chosen panel of media.  I had seen the session on the agenda and decided to use the time to regroup at the table and make a plan of attack for the rest of the day.  Approximately five words into their pitch and my well planned out time was thrown aside as I was determined to hear every single word Frances Lacefield and Pierce Persons had to say.  I was completely sold before their pitch was over and I knew immediately I wanted to know more about this company and these girls.

Tabletop Tuesday ... Breakfast For One

Since I vowed to work on my health this year and make some life changes I have taken on eating a full and healthy breakfast.  For me this is usually a waffle with peanut butter and a banana or oatmeal with berries and almonds.  In the past I have just had coffee and maybe something small as I was rushing around for the day, but now it is committed time to sit and start my day with a full meal and do it right.

My favorite part of breakfast now is setting the table and truly enjoying the time.  I love to mix and match all of my things and truly use what I have.  The sun light pours into the kitchen even on a grey day like today.  I love how I am greeted while I sit with the sun, the birds and all of the beauty of the day ahead. 

Having coffee in a true cup with a saucer is the perfect way to start the morning for me.  Adding a book or magazine to read assures that I will make the time to sit for a while.  We have a no phone rule at the table so sitting here for a few without technology is a true blessing. 

None of our pieces are new to us, a little collected here and there and the shell dishes meant for berries are the newest addition to my collection of tableware.  I only have a few of them, but that is all you need when setting a table for two to four.  

I love gingham, as you know, and these monogram napkins I have owned for a while but I never tire of them. We also own them in green with a navy monogram with is super fun to set a table with them mixed together.  

Individual salt and pepper shakers are so fun to collect.  When you set the table you can use a set for each place setting.  I love a table where so many pieces are used, it starts so many conversations of where each piece was found.

When you set a table it doesn't have to be a formal setting for six or more, set something just for yourself or even more fun, for two.  Treat yourself to a fully set place setting for breakfast or lunch.  You are not only worth it but the meal will be so much more satisfying.  Even better, add in your favorite Pandora station.  I have discovered all the time I set aside to treat me comes back to bless my family trifold.

Happy Tuesday!

Monday Goals

Racing around today to knock out my long to do list.  We have one week until spring break and we are all so ready for a vacation.  Just popping in to post some inspiration for your day.  Make Monday amazing and know you are the best around!!

Happy Monday lovies ... 

Introducing Hazen Jewelry

I think I fell for Hazen Jewelry at first sight and then I read about the darling Taylor Miller and the rest was history.  This amazing powerhouse has been designing jewelry since the age of 9 and has really never stopped.  As a mother of a 12 year old I would be beyond proud to see her be so passionate about a calling.  To me Taylor does have a calling to create such beautiful pieces and run her company the way she does.

6 Things That Mean Spring to Me

After a long fall and winter with sweaters and fires and warm drinks for days I am always ready to embrace the new season. There is something about spring that makes me so excited each year.  I think it is the promise of new growth and new life along with the vibrant colors that remind me it is a fabulous time of the year.  The boots and coats are packed away and changed out for gingham button downs and white jeans with sandals.  The long days remind me that summer isn't far away and the quality time with my loved ones will be here before I know it.

Getting Ready For Bed ...

Cosmetic Bag || Clairsonic

I love pajamas and the whole evening routine.  Don't get me wrong, I love to get up early and fully embrace the day, but there is something amazing about getting ready for bed.  I think it is the thought of a full day spent well and being ready to refresh my mind and body and prepare for another full day of life.  Well, that and cute pajamas I know are waiting for me.

Table Tuesday ... Spring Soiree

Since yesterday was the first day of Spring I decided it was time to host my first soiree of the season.  It is time to put away all things winter and dust off everything spring.  I found a fabulous Kate Spade tablecloth at Home Goods and the rest immediately came together.

Bring on the warmer temps and long sunny evenings ... 

Introducing ... Britt Ford

After writing the feature on Well + Wonder a lot of artists reached out to me to introduce themselves. Since I don't know a lot about art but am very drawn to artists I asked them all to share more about their work and themselves.  I was very excited to meet so many darling artists which I will be featuring over the next few months.

One of the first to reach out to me was the darling and super talented Britt Ford.  I truly loved Britt's email as she introduced herself and shared some of her work.  I think part of me always wanted to be an artist, letting the paint and the canvas take me wherever I wanted to go. In art class I always was excited to try out oils and watercolor.  I was never very good but I am thrilled to meet and share some of the best in their field.

Etsy Love

Happy Saturday!  I am posting on the weekend which I rarely do and I am here to share some of my favorite people on Etsy.  I shop quite a bit from the amazing options on Etsy and our home and my life reflect it.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Today is one of my favorite days of the year!  Twenty four years ago after work a cute boy invited me out for a green beer and as they say, the rest is history.  Who knew one green beer would lead to a whole life together, but it did!

I would say I am lucky, but instead I am blessed!

Spring Bar Essentials ...

It is freezing here in Georgia (this am it was 27) but I am wearing bright colors and ushering in spring every where I possibly can.  I almost feel as if I am willing it here as quick as possible.  A few weeks ago I changed over our bar cart from a winter feel to a happy colorful reminder of all things set to come.  With the warmer weather around the corner (please Lord!!) I am envisioning lots of dinner parties and girlie happy hours where I will need a stocked space to be able to serve those I love and adore.

First of all you need a fabulous cart.  Mine is the Audrey Butler cart from Ave Home and we love it. It is large enough for me to load it up and leave it. When I know people are coming over I add a small cutting board and a fun vase of flowers.  Just a little freshen up and a place to cut citrus.

Glasses || Brass Pineapple 

Next up glasses.  We love Catstudio and their darling designs.  I love that we have glasses that mean something to us, not to mention they are full of amazing images to chat about.  Since the Hubs grew up in Jupiter and his mother's family is from Palm Beach that area means so much to our life.  These are perfect for us.  I also love the size, they are perfect for anything from a sparkling soda to a full cocktail and every single thing in between.  I also love to give these as gifts.  I have my eye on this set for a friend who just vacationed in Paris.  It will be a perfect reminder of her family vacation.

Napkins || Acrylic Holder

Next up and super important to include, napkins.  I love a colorful monogrammed napkin, it is just one more way for me to add color to our home.  These are from Emily McCarthy Shoppe and the monogram I chose is one of her options.  I mean, those elephants are darling, don't you think?  A few times a year she sells the napkins as buy one, get one and I stock up.  I have them in pink, white, green, orange and most recently navy.  They make an appearance for so many functions.

Swizzle Sticks || Vase (similar)

I love swizzle sticks!  I have a huge collection of them and this summer I had to tell my assistant to keep me from ordering any more.  I mean, they are just so fun to add to any cart!  These are also from Emily McCarthy shoppe and I ordered them with my napkins.  They are from the gift bar and are always available.  I love to give them as hostess gifts and paired with a set of cocktail napkins they make a perfect birthday gift for a bestie.

I use this vintage blue and white monkey to hold all kinds of things but citrus is very favorite.  He is perfect for the bar cart and plays so well with others. I found a few of them available on Etsy for you. Check out this one, this one and this one which is identical to mine.

Foo Dog Lamp || Shade (custom by me)

Lilly Pulitzer x Society Social

Town & Country calls it a match made in Instagram heaven, I call it nothing short of brilliant.  Lilly Pulitzer's most recent collaboration is with the one and only Society Social.  For one day only you could take home a Society Social bar cart made exclusively for Lilly filled with amazing goodies.

Gingham Heaven

Shirt

As you well know I love gingham!  Something about those tiny little checks that makes my heart skip a beat.  I think I have shared that my love for gingham started very young.  My grandmother had yellow gingham wallpaper in her kitchen and the sight of it always made me happy. To this day any sight of gingham makes me so very happy.  I love wearing anything gingham and I love to mix it with so many other patterns all spring and summer long for darling outfits.  I am ready for warm weather, alfresco dining and fun outings.

Bring the spring weather for good please!!

I was able to round up some amazing gingham pieces you must add to your closet for the upcoming warm weather.  The first day of spring is only a week away so it is time to start planning all those darling outfits. All of the pieces I found are perfect for pairing with darling white jeans and cute sandals.

(Click on photo for shopping details)

When I was hunting all things gingham for this post I noticed that Banana Republic is having quite the sale.  You must hurry, it ends tonight at midnight.  You can get 50% off five full price items with code BRFAMILY.  That is a fabulous sale and you can bet your tiny little checks I will be shopping this morning and adding five new gingham pieces to my cart.  I mean, it is 50% off!  

Have the best day and starting thinking about all the things you want to do with those warm days coming!!

Happy Hour with TomTom

Happy Friday!!  Hope your week was short and sweet just the way they should be!  I have been working all day in the guest room and our daughter's room pulling all of the details together.  Moving is definitely not an easy thing and we only moved three rooms in the house.

Powder Room Reveal ...

Happy Thursday!!!  I have such a fun post for you today, one full of fabulous color and pattern!!  I am truly so excited I can hardly stand it.  I have been working on this room for quite a while, six months to be exact and its the smallest space in the house.

Wowza!!!

What Makes Me Happy ...

Happy Wednesday!!  Today I am posting at The Uptown Acorn with my friend Ron as part of his What Makes Me Happy series.  I was thrilled when he asked me to contribute ... I love working with other bloggers.  It was hard narrowing it down to just four things I love since I have so many things I adore, but when I sat and thought for a few it was way easier than I thought!!  I mean, there are four things I just can't imagine my life without!!

Pop over to his blog and read my article ... I think you will agree all four of my items are what make me the happiest!!  You will love his blog.  His eye for detail and his incredible style will keep you coming back for post after post.  I love when he posts about parties, I can just see myself popping over and having the absolute best time!!  I can't wait to visit New Orleans and have drinks on his porch!!

I am off this morning to spend the day with one of my favorite people, my darling friend Skipper. It is her birthday today and we spend our birthdays with each other doing things we haven't done and I have a fabulously fun day planned for her.  I pick her up just after 8:30 and we are off on a full day.  You can follow along with us on Instastories!!!

Have a fabulous Wednesday!!  

Candle Making with Candlefish

If you have ever smelled a Candlefish candle you instantly can tell the difference in these quality candles.  There is something quite different about a Candlefish candle and once you light the candle you will notice the smell that first drew you to the specific candle has now drawn you in with its layered scent and magical glow.  Since I am quite a candle connoisseur,  I was thrilled to make the introduction of Candlefish's new location in Ponce City Market and the knowledgeable and kind staff.

Porch Appeal

As the weather is warming up here in Atlanta I am starting to think about our front porch. I say "porch" but it is really a small area and probably should be called a stoop.  Anyway, it is time to clean out my planters and freshen them up for spring and summer.

My Love for Teggy French

I absolutely adore Teggy French!  I don't recall when I first noticed her feed on Instagram, I think I just needed something like her in my life and one day she appeared.  Alex Weichert is a fashion blogger and style icon known for her incredible eye and Palm Beach vintage vibe.  Since starting her brand she has become incredibly popular with followers and has had the opportunity to work with some incredible brands.  One look at her portfolio and you will immediately understand why. Alex's style is simply divine!! 

A self described “modern day C.Z. Guest” Alex’s style is a definite nod to the past. A time when women dressed for dinner and attended events with minks and full length gloves. Honestly I can’t quite get enough of her daily posts both on Instagram and her blog. I am so drawn to her “preppy with a twist” style. 

Alex excitedly agreed to share her closet with me for my series with The Southern C and it was so fun to be able to ask her everything I wanted to know about her style and how Teggy French began.  The post was hugely popular as I knew it would be and it was such a delight for me to have the opportunity to learn so much about her.

My favorite question to ask all of my interviews is their five must haves.  For Alex I had to adjust the question to include fashion.  Her response was exactly as I thought it would be ...

Vintage Pucci. Vintage Lilly. Turbans. Teggy French x Victory Optical sunglasses. Anything Jules Reid.

Alex also shared her bar cart with me for my Bar Cart Series and it was just as preppy and chic as she is, not that I had any doubt it would be.  Her drink of choice is a Hot 'n Dirty, a spin off of a dirty martini but this one is spicy.  umm, Yes Please!!!

Isn't she the cutest??  I will leave you with a few extra photos of her and her incredible style.  They are sure to make your Wednesday fabulous!

Have the best day ...