White Pumpkins - The Ribbon in my Journal

White Pumpkins and Bittersweet

Phyllis Décor 21 Comments

White pumpkins are all the rage in decorating. I have one question. When did these things appear? Growing up I never saw a white pumpkin…every pumpkin I ever saw was orange. Yes that’s it, orange. Charlie Brown movies are my favorites, especially It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown. I still watch that movie every Halloween and relive a bit of …

Sybil Sylvester - Ribbon In My Journal

A Unique Dose Of Christmas Cheer with Sybil Sylvester

Phyllis Décor 12 Comments

There is nothing that stirs the holiday spirit like beautiful floral decorations in a grand, old Southern home. While I am a fan of traditional Christmas decoration with its red and green, there is a fine line between festive and flashy. I have to appreciate the creativity in a holiday design that honors tradition, but is just a little bit …

Jennifer Carroll - Ribbon in my journal

Blue Willow Tablescape with Jennifer Carroll

Phyllis Décor 9 Comments

Jennifer Carroll, an event planner of 20 years and a mother on one, has kindly shared her easy fall tablescape design for any gathering, big or small with me. Jennifer has loved planning and playing “hostess” from the time she was a little girl. When it comes to party planning, she believes in keeping it simple. In her lovely “Blue …

Variations on Pound Cake

Phyllis Lifestyle 25 Comments

Around my house, everyone’s favorite part of the meal is always dessert. I have always loved to bake with my family, and especially love teaching my grandchildren how to bake. A simple and delicious recipe that is perfect for baking with children is Miss Jo’s Whipping Cream Pound Cake. Miss Jo was a dear lady in my childhood church who …

Fall Colors in Arrangements

Phyllis Décor 20 Comments

I have two friends, Gail Garner and Shelia Smith, who are so creative. They are our go-to pair when the event calls for something really special. Amy Grant was gracious enough to come to Birmingham for a concert benefitting the Auxiliary of Big Oak Ranch. I have written about the ranch many times here on Ribbon, so you know my …

Introducing the Tiny Book of Mason Jar Recipes!

Phyllis Inspiration 11 Comments

I am thrilled to show you the latest installment in our Small Pleasures book series. The Tiny Book of Mason Jar Recipes is perfect for your bookshelf or coffee table and is a darling look at the beloved Mason jar. I got to chat with the book’s editor, Cindy Smith Cooper, and I’m delighted to share our conversation so you …

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 …

Spring-Flowers

Hunting For the Perfect Vase

Phyllis Décor 17 Comments

I love it when I find a wonderful vase that makes flower arranging easy. When we were filming at Dorothy McDaniel’s Flower Market, my eyes were drawn to this little vase that looks like bulbs sitting on the table. Upon further inspection, I realized this little vase is designed to hold three single blossoms, and my daffodils now stand nicely …