The Magnolia Journal

letter from the editor

There’s a thrilling calm that settles over me this time of year. Most days are still chilly in Texas, but the sun is growing stronger, slowly waking us all from our winter sleep. A little light breaks through the clouds, and you can feel a shift in the air. The year is new, and everything feels bright with possibility!Here at Magnolia, we try to be intentional about embracing each upcoming season with a renewed perspective. This effort begins with our magazine. Once our team has landed on a theme for the season, we begin to unpack and explore the ideas within it. From there, we take all that we’re learning and begin to weave it into the issue as well as into the fabric of our company’s culture here in…

magnolia report authenticity

A children’s book is coming!EARLY APRILIn We Are the Gardeners, Joanna and the kids share the adventure of starting their own family garden. Trying something new isn’t always easy, but often it’s the hardest work that leads to the greatest reward. There are always new lessons to be learned in the garden! Find out more at magnolia.com.Spring at the SilosMARCH 14–16The Silos grounds are in full bloom, which means it’s time to officially usher in the spring season! Join us for three days filled with family activities and an artisan vendor fair. Learn more at magnolia.com/events.THIS SEASON AT MAGNOLIA TABLEHere are a few items on our spring menu that we’re excited for you to try.CURRY CHICKEN SALADChicken salad with water chestnuts, served on multigrain toast.ASPARAGUS QUICHEMild, buttery cheese paired with…

how to style porches + stoops

There’s something meaningful about the first things we notice when we arrive home. Whether it’s a glowing porch light, a set of rocking chairs, or muddy boots lined up side by side, these details signal to us that we’ve made it. We are home. Very often, these first impressions happen to be found on the porch, stoop, or whatever threshold you cross before settling inside.Historically, the porch has been a symbol of family and community. American authors including Harper Lee and Toni Morrison have used porches as metaphors for the way we engage with the world. Before air-conditioning became a popular amenity in homes, the porch was where families could escape the stuffy heat inside. It was a place where people would visit with one another, wave to passersby, and…

personalize your porch

SWITCH OUT YOUR HARDWARENew hardware is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to upgrade your home’s curb appeal. For a unified look, consider coordinating your doorbell, doorknob, and mailbox in a similar style.Stamped letters and a burnished finish exude vintage charm.Columbia Mailboxmagnolia.comPost Mail Slotsignaturehardware.comPlease Ring Doorbellrejuvenation.comTeak Lattice Plantershopterrain.comLAYER PLANTSUse large planters to anchor a space—they’re best positioned in a corner or flanking a doorway. Gather small to medium planters for a more casual look, and group pots in a similar color, material, or style to make an arrangement feel intentional.Sunday Porch Swingballarddesigns.comRaeburn Rope and Wood Rocking Chairhayneedle.comCREATE SPACE FOR SEATINGNo porch is complete without a place to kick back, relax, and enjoy the view. A good old-fashioned porch swing or rocking chair, topped with cozy cushions and textural…

snapshots of owning it

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an ode to honey

The Greeks called it “ambrosia, food of the gods,” and ancient civilizations heralded its many virtues, using honey to treat skin sores, digestive ailments, and various infections.There is, it seems, very little that honey can’t do. In the endless parade of trending health and beauty products, honey stands out as one of nature’s most capable offerings. Touted for boosting energy, increasing endurance, balancing blood sugar, healing wounds, and soothing sore throats, this natural remedy does its fair share.Honey is also considered a superfood, boasting amino acids, proteins, enzymes, vitamins, and minerals. A simple spread of honey, typically used as a topping for bread, yogurt, or fruit, or stirred into tea, can elevate everyday food. Its subtle sweetness balances spice, citrus, vinegar, and a range of flavors in savory dishes as…