Southern Lady Spring in the South 2017

To me, British author Ellis Peters had it exactly right when she said, “Every spring is the only spring—a perpetual astonishment.” It matters not how many years I’ve gasped over forsythia’s cascading yellow branches or paused with excitement over phlox- and buttercup-covered grounds—each time feels like nature is unveiling the most splendid surprise, one as fresh and new as the season itself. Such wonder and awe inspired each and every page of this issue, from decorating and entertaining ideas to dreamy escapes both near and far. We hope you enjoy the inspiration and beauty within, our special love letter to spring and its unending glory.…

In Bloom Create an eye-catching welcome at the entry with flower displays in a tapestry of blushing pinks and buttery yellows. Further the charm of the scene with pretty matching ribbons woven through baskets and adorning playful statues. Distinctive Details For an easy arrangement with plenty of polish, place Boston fern fronds inside a glass container, and wrap the long stems around its border. Then simply fill in using favorite flowers like roses and waxflowers. To bring extra panache to the table, try an interesting napkin fold topped off with petite petals. For step-by-step directions, visit southernladymagazine.com. Fresh Look Fashion a cozy yet sunny space for overnight visitors with a few quick updates to guest room accents. A splash of golden yellow paint and a bit of coordinating floral fabric perk up a vintage chair,…

Some design a house with a particular style or color scheme in mind. Some use a location to inspire the production plan. Jim and Barbara Daniel built their Huntsville, Alabama, home around their cherished collection of antique furnishings and fixtures. After spending years frequenting auctions in Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama, the two decided to move out of their ready-made home in favor of constructing an abode custom designed to showcase their favorite pieces. Byrne Turner of Vintage Construction was tasked with turning the couple’s vision into a reality. Jim and Barbara considered every detail, from the hardwood and tiled floors to the ornate ceilings. “Each ceiling in the downstairs section is unique and quite elegant. Jim (an engineer) sketched out what we wanted, and Byrne figured out how to do it,”…

Walking through this Williamsburg, Virginia, residence feels like a stroll among clouds. Muted neutrals with accents of whisper-soft pastels envelop the spaces like a cocoon, creating a comfy, cozy abode that is instantly uplifting and undeniably cheerful. Little vignettes composed of enchanting elements—vintage books, tiny teacups, pitchers of fresh flowers—delight the eyes with their simplicity and charm. Indeed, Jennifer Holmes applies a certain artistic grace to her interiors, grounded in a graphic design degree and a background in fine arts and interior design. While she describes her style as “natural or rustic elegance,” she also recognizes that a home must be livable. “As much as I love for my spaces to have an elegant feel, as the mother of two young girls, I know it’s important that each room is comfortable…

Natural Harmony As new leaves appear and flowers bloom, spring’s natural beauty serves as the ideal statement piece for a gathering in the garden. Select a location that ensures every seat has a lovely view of Mother Nature’s showcase. Then accent the vibrant foliage with arrangements of bright-pink azaleas, peonies, and yellow lemons. A distinctively verdant china pattern brings the season’s blossoming fancy to each place setting, while details such as bird salt and pepper shakers lend a touch of whimsy.…

Creamy Asparagus Soup MAKES 8 TO 10 SERVINGS 1/4 cup butter 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed and chopped 2 cups chopped onion 1 cup chopped celery 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1/2 cup Riesling wine 1/3 cup all-purpose flour 6 cups chicken broth 1 cup heavy whipping cream 2 teaspoons sugar 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest 1 (8-ounce) package Monterey Jack cheese, grated 11/2 cups finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese Garnish: chopped fresh chives 1. In a Dutch oven, heat butter and oil over medium heat until butter is melted. Add asparagus, onion, celery, and garlic; cook for 8 minutes, stirring frequently. Add wine; cook for 2 minutes. Add flour; cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually add broth, whisking until smooth. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for 20 minutes,…