History of the Bridal Trousseau

Phyllis Inspiration 27 Comments

When I graduated from high school, my dad made me a blanket chest out of walnut wood. I had seen one in an antique store that was completely out of the question to buy. I took him over to see it and he made me my very own blanket chest that I still cherish today. It took the place of …

Epergne - Ribbon In My Journal

Magical Marriage of Serving and Centerpiece

Phyllis Décor 15 Comments

It is no secret that I love beautiful serving pieces. I also love beautiful centerpieces. When I find both of those things combined into one, it’s even better. This magical combination comes in the form of the epergne. An epergne is a dining centerpiece that sits on four feet with a large central bowl and four or more smaller bowls …

Unique Centerpieces - Ribbon in my Journal

Unique Centerpieces

Phyllis Décor 18 Comments

It can be a challenge to keep your décor fresh and exciting. I can easily find myself falling into a rut with decorating, especially when it comes to decorating a tablescape. One way I have found to challenge myself and keep my skills sharp is to repurpose unconventional items as unique centerpieces for my table.  Cream pitchers and sugar bowls …

Cottages of White

Phyllis Décor 26 Comments

What is your personal style? I am often asked that question, and I have to stop and think about it. I love English-style furniture, French fabrics, and antiques. I went through a period in my life where every room was wall papered, and that phase lasted only a little while. Truthfully, I find that I like to make small changes …

Blue and White Interiors from Decorating Expert Phoebe Howard

Phyllis Inspiration 12 Comments

The recent issue of Southern Lady features a special look into how interior design maven Phoebe Howard got her unexpected start in professional decorating. Among the rooms included in the magazine are a series of blue and white interiors that I absolutely love. Of course, you know my love for blue and white china. I so enjoyed seeing that aesthetic replicated …

Lauren Brennan Brower's New Orleans home decorated for Christmas

Inspired Christmas Decor from a New Orleans Home

Phyllis Décor 11 Comments

At Christmastime, I love to see beautiful decorations—fresh greenery over entryways and windows, wreaths on doors, and trees bright with lights and ornaments. While there are beautiful homes all over the country this time of year, you know I have a special place in my heart for a gorgeously decorated Southern home. This year’s Holidays special edition of Southern Lady captures …

Photo of home decor from Southern Home special issue

Inspiring Interiors from Southern Home

Phyllis Décor 13 Comments

We Southern women love to decorate our homes in our favorite colors and patterns. If you know anything about me, you know mine has a lot of blue and white porcelains, fabrics, upholstery, and dishes. When I saw the cover of our new Southern Home special edition, I went completely starry-eyed over the large blue and white striped chairs. Immediately …

Fourth of July table setting

Simple and Stylish Décor Ideas for the Fourth of July

Phyllis Inspiration 11 Comments

Fireworks bursting, American flags flying, good old-fashioned cookouts—there is so much to love about the Fourth of July. When it comes to decorating for the holiday, I love to draw on my love for blue and white and use bright red blooms and accents as celebratory complements. Over the years, we’ve had a variety of opportunities to experiment with red, …