Fall Party Ideas

Phyllis Décor, Inspiration 18 Comments

My daughter-in-law Katie hosts the most splendid parties. Her personal touch on everything makes each celebration so special. From the invitations to the take-home party favor, she plans right down to the last detail. I wanted to share her ideas with you because this time of year offers wonderful opportunities to decorate for a party, and I’m fortunate that my …

Meet Entertain Decorate Celebrate editor Heather Martin Jeffcoat

Phyllis Inspiration, Lifestyle, People 8 Comments

From the time Heather was a child she loved entertaining. Whether it was setting up parties for her Barbies or having the high school French Club over for a festive holiday gathering, serving homemade crêpes and a bûche de Noël cake, entertaining came naturally. Heather thought that this affinity for entertaining was normal for everyone since she was used to …

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Meet Allison Banks of Allison R. Banks Designs

Phyllis Inspiration, People 21 Comments

Several years back, Allison Banks came to work here at Hoffman Media. She was a very artistic person and had wonderful style. Allison’s monograms and lettering had intrigued me from the time I met her. Working with her was so inspiring, and I was delighted when she decided to branch out on her own and start her own company. It …

A Visit with Shane Connolly

Phyllis Inspiration, People 9 Comments

I sat spellbound last week watching this master floral arranger put together stunning creations from flowers cut fresh from a garden right here in Birmingham. Englishman Shane Connolly, author of “A Year in Flowers,” was in town for the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Secretly, I wanted to hear him speak and see his creations because he is the floral designer to …

Amelia’s Art-Themed Birthday Party

Phyllis Inspiration, Lifestyle 15 Comments

I love sharing party ideas with you because we all are looking for great ideas when planning birthday parties for our little ones—whether grandchildren or children. My daughter-in-law, Katie, planned an art theme this year for Amelia’s birthday party. The invitations were adorable and set the tone for a creative afternoon. Her foods were very innovative, and I loved the presentation. …

Paula Deen Passing Out LUnches

Paula Deen’s Box Lunch to End Hunger Event Recap

Phyllis Inspiration 12 Comments

As most of you know, sponsoring charities is near and dear to the heart of our company and our family. When the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama and Paula Deen asked us to participate in Paula Deen’s Box Lunch to End Hunger, we jumped at the chance. Not only was the event a lot of fun, but we also …

How I Came to Love Tea

Phyllis Inspiration 46 Comments

I have always admired—actually adored—all things British. When Lady Diana became a household name and her wardrobe shaped the apparel business worldwide, I just loved it. My friend Barbara Cockerham and I actually studied her wardrobe and would buy every book we could find that had Diana as the subject. One of the things we really loved and decided to …