Southern Lady Celebrate Fabulous & Tasteful Menus 2013

The approach of autumn is so invigorating. Every year I take delight in the first yellow leaf I see hanging on a tree. It is a gentle reminder that my favorite season is about to arrive, and that is cause to celebrate! I can’t decide which I like most—the cool weather or the special events. Perhaps it is both. The crisp, clean air and the warm colors are magic to me. Eating outside is always a fall favorite at my house. Food just tastes better when you’re surrounded by beautiful scenery. There are many aromas that fill my kitchen at this time of year. Pumpkins, apples, and pecans all spiced with just the right amount of cinnamon and nutmeg beckon family and friends to gather around my table. We have shared the…

Something about the slight change in the temperature lets me know that fall is just around the corner. I know it officially begins in late September, but I can already sense the new season upon us, with families scurrying to prepare for the start of a new school year. Our magazine staff , however, celebrated fall back in the spring. Because of our production schedules, we actually live out the seasons a bit earlier than most of you. We produced and photographed the majority of these fall-themed stories in late March and April. It can be challenging at times, but we work with a variety of vendors and folks who have helped us master the art of making it happen. We try to capture stories “in season” like “Simple Fall Centerpieces,”…

A RUSTIC RUNNER Use a neutral strip of fabric to create a runner down the center of your table. Arrange a mix of colored pumpkins and gourds, along with several pairs of antlers, on top of the runner. Complete the look, using other neutral-fabric remnants or netting to soften and add texture. PUMPKIN PLANTER Hollow out two large pumpkins, and fill three-fourths of the way with aluminum foil. Fill the remaining one-fourth with potting soil, and top off with a variety of small succulents. Accent the larger pumpkins with smaller white pumpkins. CREATIVE CANDLES Craft candleholders by hollowing out several small pumpkins. Stack them to add interest. Secure candles in the bases, if necessary, using floral tacky clay. Finish your table with more pumpkins and other tasteful pieces such as this place mat and vintage…

Green Thumb Once the house is in order inside, it’s time to tackle the outside. Pick out some gardening essentials, arrange them in a terra-cotta pot, and place the pot in a sun hat. This gift will surely spark the energy to get digging either with house plants or in the garden. T he movers have left, and all the boxes are waiting to be unpacked. Now you are faced with the task of making your new house your new home. Whether in the same city or a brand-new location, settling into a new house is very exciting, but it can also be overwhelming at times. When I moved not long ago, there were little things I needed to make my home feel relaxed and comfortable. Some items from the old house were…

J ames Farmer knew what he wanted to do with his life from the get-go. While growing up in the small town of Kathleen, Georgia, he was surrounded by produce fresh from the garden and classic Southern cooking. From the smell of newly picked tomatoes to a pound cake baking in his grandmother’s oven, memories from his childhood truly inspired him to become who he is today. “I think I’m just one of those lucky souls that was born knowing exactly who they are,” says James. “I always knew I wanted to do something with design and nature. The inspiration is just in me; it’s who I am.” After graduating from Auburn University with degrees in horticulture and art history, James, with the support of his family, friends, and hometown, set out…

A reunion offers the perfect opportunity to strengthen familial ties. Those who live near and far come together for a beautiful celebration of their heritage. It’s a chance to reminisce about earlier days, introduce new family members, and enjoy delicious food. Whether you choose one day or host a weekend affair, all will cherish spending time with each other and making new memories. Bold shades of red and blue with touches of yellow and white set the color palette for this gathering. White and blue vessels of bright flowers set atop a striped runner create a fun centerpiece, while Chinese lanterns allow the occasion to transition into the evening. If you plan ahead, you can delight everyone with personalized party décor. Ask each family member to send photos of the clan,…