April 2022

a BLOOMING EASTER LUNCHEON

a S T U N N I N G R E N O V AT I O N I N G E R M A N T O W N

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TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

28 | HOME FEAT U R E

42 | E NT E R T A ININ G

Designers from First Fruit Collection played up its timeless architectural elements to inspire the stunning renovation of this 90s-era

Spring has arrived! Let's celebrate the season with a fresh and blooming luncheon perfect for welcoming friends and family for Easter.

Germantown home.

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TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

APRIL 2022 home & design 28 HOME FEATURE Good Bones

food & travel 48 EXPERIENCE THIS

Greetings from Oxford, MS

56 EXPERIENCE THIS

Landscaping Camp on the Ole Miss Campus

82 IN THE KITCHEN Beef Tartare atop Toasted Crostini

for you

44 WEDDING

Courtney Williams & Brock Richardson

74 ENTERTAINING

Thanks for Hopping By! An Easter Luncheon

86 HEALTHY YOU Eat Your Way Clean

in every issue

14 PUBLISHER'S NOTE

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89 SOURCES

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APRIL 2022 • VOL. 21 NO. 1 PUBLISHER / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR MARGARET MONGER | mmonger@athomemms.com

MANAGING EDITOR AUBREY ANN MONGER | aamonger@athomemms.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER GINNI JONES | gjones@athomemms.com

COPY EDITOR TERRI GLAZER

IMAGING COLOR MANAGEMENT CHARLES REYNOLDS | cr@colorretouching.com

ADVERTISING SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE HILARY FRANKEL | hafrankel@comcast.net

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES GAIL HARRELL | gharrell@athomemms.com CHRIS PUGH | chrisapugh@gmail.com QUINN PEEPER | qpeeper@icloud.com

REGIONAL MARKETING JANA FITE HERBISON | jfherbison@gmail.com

BUSINESS DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS TRIP MONGER | tmonger@athomemms.com

MARKETING AND CIRCULATION HARRIET W. DEATON | hdeaton@athomemms.com

HOW TO REACH US 7776 FARMINGTON BLVD, # 1321 GERMANTOWN TN 38183 | 901.684.4155 ATHOMEMMS.COM At Home Memphis & Mid South doesn't accept unsolicited manuscripts. To inquire about freelance opportunities, send a letter, resume and three writing samples to—Editor, At Home Memphis & Mid South: 7776 Farmington Blvd, # 1321 Germantown TN 38183.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Call 901.684.4155 or subscribe at athomemms. com. Annual subscription rate: $19.95. Single copy price: $4.99. At Home Memphis & Mid South is published 12 times a year. Postmaster: Send address changes to At Home Memphis & Mid South, 7776 Farmington Blvd, #1321 Germantown TN 38183. We make every effort to correct factual mistakes or omissions in a timely and candid manner. Information can be forwarded to Trip Monger; At Home Memphis & Mid South, 7776 Farmington Blvd, #1321 Germantown TN 38183. or to tmonger@athomemms.com.

@athomemagazine

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PUBLISHER'S

Note

The

first quarter of this year is in the books, and what a quarter it has been! For our family in particular, plans were changed and moved around and new blessings were found in places we would have never thought to look. We had been looking forward to this April for several years and then, just like that, it was momentarily forgotten. Our focus turned to more important family issues. This April marks the 20th anniversary of our magazine publishing, bringing lovely homes and their stories into your homes each month, and so much more.

In the past 20 years, I personally have been blessed to meet some of the best friends ever through my work here. I have watched babies born and mentors die. It has been a journey I never could have imagined and one I am thankful for every day. Our own children, Callie and Duncan, were 12 and eight when we started. Callie is now married to her middle-school sweetheart and our favorite son-in-law, Tyler, and mom of Crawford, our princess. Duncan is 28 and married to the love of his life and ours, lol!

Aubrey Ann truly is our magazine Super Glue…nothing can pull her apart and trust me when I say she has been tried. She gathers content, creates ads, (sometimes the same ad numerous times while reading minds) and keeps us all together. She does this all, lately, while growing a tiny human, our first grandson, Miles Robert Monger, who we can not wait to meet any day and Crawford can not wait to boss around!

What a difference 20 years makes. Although I’m excited to see what the next two decades bring, I certainly can wait. I am in no rush and absolutely not wishing any precious time away. One of my favorite quotes is, “Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. That is why it’s called the present.” I hope you all enjoy this 240th issue of AT HOME and wish you many blessings to celebrate each day!

- Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER

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H O M E F E AT U R E

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H O M E F E AT U R E

good

bones STORY TERRI GLAZER INTERIOR DESIGN FIRST FRUIT COLLECTION P H OTO S S É L AV I E P H OTO G R A P H Y April 2022 • athomemms.com | 29

H O M E F E AT U R E

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H O M E F E AT U R E

a house

with good bones, enthusiastic owners, and designers with vision added up to produce a stunning renovation in this 90s-era home in Germantown.

Stunning, but approachable, says designer Patty Michaelis, and that’s just the way it’s supposed to be.

“What I love about this house is that it absolutely feels like somebody lives here. It feels so comfortable versus a show house.

We always want our clients to feel like their home is totally livable,” says Michaelis, store manager and designer at First Fruit Collection

in Collierville. She spearheaded the project along with Ashley Toney, First Fruit’s owner.

The pair of designers and the homeowners, Angela and Jon Straub, have developed a longstanding relationship; this is the third house Toney and Michaelis have outfitted for the family that includes the couple and their two teenage children. This project had a decidedly different slant than the others, however. Says the homeowner, “The other homes we had weren’t like this one. They were more rustic, but I like the term Ashley uses for this house and the design—dressy.”

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H O M E F E AT U R E

toney

says the description fits perfectly. Nothing about the home is formal or stuffy. The design is fresh yet timeless with a gracious, inviting appeal.

Though the home’s colors and decor needed a fresh look, the classic architecture had stood the test of time and was well suited to the casual elegance Toney envisioned for the decor. “The builders of this house constructed a very traditional plantationstyle house. I feel like when you create something more traditional it’s timeless.

Yes, the colors and the cabinets were dated, but the layout and the flow weren’t because they are traditional and that never goes out of style,” says Toney.

The owner agrees, adding that the fact that the home needed cosmetic work rather than a total redo played heavily into the decision to purchase it in 2019. After a couple of months while the entire house was painted and the floors were redone, the Straub family settled into the five-bedroom home set on a picturesque two-acre lot.

“I like light, bright and happy—welcoming,” says the homeowner. The design team delivered with a clean white wall paint throughout the house, a perfect palette to show off new lighting in dressed-up gold tones, as well as pops of color provided by furnishings and rugs.

The more dramatic elements weren’t always an easy sell, says Michaelis, recalling the decision to place two leather and cowhide chairs in Angela's office, directly off the front entryway. Although the designer describes the pair as her “most favorite chairs of all time,” she recalls that the client might not have shared her vision at first.

“We really had to talk her into them, but she loves them now. They’re fun to see when you walk in the front door.”

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H O M E F E AT U R E

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H O M E F E AT U R E

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HO OM MEE FFEEAT ATU URREE H

Michaelis

credits years of successful collaboration on multiple projects for the fact that this homeowner is a “perfect” design client. “She listens to us. She knows what she likes, but she’s always willing to listen to our vision.”

One design element that Toney and Michaelis helped ease the homeowner into was wallpaper. Michaelis remembers, “We started with just putting wallpaper inside the built-in shelves in the living room. After we did that she liked it so much that we’re about to add it in the dining room and she wants it all over now!”

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H O M E F E AT U R E

the

beautiful Turkish rugs that grace the home also took a bit of convincing on the designers’ part. The Straubs own Flooring Solutions of Memphis, so carpet, tile and hard wood are in their realm of expertise. They were a bit reluctant, however, to invest in oriental rugs. According to Michaelis, “A lot of people hesitate on rugs, so I say, ‘Just let me bring a few rugs over…’ Once she saw these she had to have them.” Heavenly Rugs in Germantown provided all the rugs in the home, including the one the designers say is “the rock star of the room” in the entryway.

Just as jewelry adds interest to an outfit, the homeowner has found, after living in the house for two years, that a few perfectly placed, bold-colored pieces make all the difference in decor that’s otherwise mostly neutral. Toney likes to bring in the accents in the form of art, accessories, draperies and throw pillows, items that are easily altered as time passes and styles evolve. “We try to steer our clients toward traditional. They might get tired of grasscloth in time, they might not, but wallpaper is something that’s fairly easy to take down. We’re not saying don’t ever have anything trendy in your home, because you always want the newest and the best, but if the bones are traditional and timeless, then it’s easier to change and flow with what’s popular,” says the designer.

Many of the accents throughout the home are in cool blues, ranging from peaceful light hues in the primary bedroom to beachy blue glass tile in the daughter’s bathroom to bold batik-look wallpaper in the son’s bath.

The kitchen island boasts an ethereal blue green, Oyster Bay by Sherwin Williams. Previously dark stained wood, as was the rest of the kitchen cabinetry and trim, the lightened up wood, along with new countertops, lighting and fixtures, brought the kitchen beautifully up to date without a complete remodel. The large kitchen features a generous eating area that the homeowner loves as it offers plenty of overflow seating from the nearby dining room when she hosts large family gatherings.

The family room that overlooks the backyard received a facelift that started with help from Flooring Solutions: the addition of an eye-catching bluestone floor. A brick fireplace was limewashed to tone down the color. A new mantel completed the overhaul in the comfortable, but not too casual space.

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H O M E F E AT U R E

the

First Fruit team paid attention to even the smallest details during the renovation, like replacing door hardware throughout the house with crystal knobs for a timeless look, and bringing in The House of Order to assist in organizing the closets, kitchen and pantry.

Although Toney and Michaelis have helped the homeowner transform almost every area of their house, the designers still refer to the project as a work in progress. Toney says, “We’re constantly dropping by all the time. Sometimes we’ll get something in at First Fruit that I just know would be perfect here. I shoot Angela a picture and she says, ‘Bring it by!’” It’s clear they love working on the “house with the good bones” and enjoy their “perfect” client.

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THE KING OF VINTAGE COMES TO MEMPHIS

Cameron Silver of

It’s been called vintage couture, “pre-loved” fashion, and most recently sustainable dressing. Call it what you want, but one thing is most assuredly true, it’s “chic to repeat!” And that’s just what the King of Vintage, Cameron Silver, uses as the tagline for his iconic showroom, Decades, A Century of Fashion, in Los Angeles.

Cameron, a native of Beverly Hills, opened his highly frequented vintage boutique on Melrose Avenue in 1997. When he opened the now well known shop, he immediately set an industry standard for all things vintage couture. He has worked with not only top stylists from around the world, but is a stylist himself to many well-known celebrities who desire to make vintage their main staples in their wardrobes. Some of his most loyal Hollywood clients include Chloe Sevigny, Nicole Kidman, Jennifer Lopez, Julianne Moore, Gwyneth Paltrow, Lady Gaga and Rhianna to name a few.

Mr. Silver has traveled the world acquiring the best of pre-loved high fashion items and quickly amassed an impressive collection of wares to provide a new niche for his clientele who desired a more “grownup glamour,” vs. the vintage look of that time of inexpensive and artsy or edgy pre-worn items.

One of his greatest accomplishments, which is certainly understandable and extremely impressive, was being named to Time Magazine’s list of the most influential people in fashion.

This honor proves what a deserved and steadfast place Cameron has earned in the world of vintage fashion. Additionally, Cameron is a former fashion Director of the Halston brand, H by Halston. He has been featured in numerous top fashion magazines around the world.

He was on Bravo’s Reality television series, “The Dukes of Melrose.”

The critically claimed syndicated program “Candid Cameron on the Hamptons,” has earned rave reviews. Cameron is a regular featured guest of E! Entertainment, The Style Network, and Fashion File.

It cannot go unsaid that Cameron is an avid philanthropist, with art advocacy being one of many that he is passionate about. He has worked with some of America’s greatest art institutes, including The Met. Internationally he has been involved with the Cannes film festival, and The Louvre, amongst many others. Giving back to the local, as well as the global community is something that he feels strongly committed to.

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Cameron’s best selling book, Decades, A Century of Fashion, has seen multiple printings. This eloquently written book represents the past hundred years of fashion-decade by decade. The book includes a mix of rare and unpublished iconic images of fashion throughout the decades, as well as work by some of the worlds most renowned fashion photographers.

The loveliest feature of the book however, is the way Cameron inserts his commentary with a skilled mix of warmth, humor, knowledge, and humility. This gives the reader a unique opportunity to think of and view vintage fashion in an advanced and more appreciated manner.

On Tuesday, April 19, Cameron will be at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens for a luncheon and talk to share his vintage fashion expertise and promote his passion for sustainable dressing. The event is being presented by Social, A Shop for Gracious Living, owned by Carmen Bond, as well as Social “U”, an arm of Social, created to bring gracious living to the community by providing class experiences and taste making events. Led by Carmen, Social “U” was also the brain child of Janie Lowery, a personal friend of Cameron, and Penny Aviotti. They created this concept because they believe gracious living is more than owning beautiful things. It’s knowing how to live in a way that brings joy and beauty to every day activities of life. “These cannot be bought however they can be learned,” Penny stated. The Dixon event, which is open to the public, begins at 11:30 am. Tickets are $75 and can be obtained by contacting the Dixon. Immediately following the talk and luncheon, Social will host a “Silvertini and Sweets” reception, kicking off a Decades trunk show curated with the best of vintage fashion, new sustainable designers, and accoutrements. The reception and trunk show will take place until 5 pm.

On Wednesday, April 20, Cameron will be at Social from 11am to 6 pm signing his book, Decades; a Century of Fashion, as well as offering his assistance in doing what he enjoys most, styling Clientele with his latest capsule of couture pieces.

This event is open to the public. Stop by and meet Cameron and sip champagne while shopping for the latest pieces of sustainable vintage fashion!

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WEDDING

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Courtney Lauren Williams & Brock Allen Richardson O C TO B E R 16, 2021 | M E M P H I S, T N PARENTS OF THE BRIDE: KIMBERLY & SHAUN WILLIAMS PARENTS OF THE GROOM: DR. DANIEL & COURTNEY RICHARDSON

WEDDING & RECEPTION: THE CADRE BUILDING REHEARSAL DINNER: MA JESTIC GRILLE DAY OF COORDINATOR: KELSEY MORGAN EVENT STYLING FLORIST: DEEDRA STONE DESIGNS PHOTOGRAPHER: THANKFULLY TAKEN RENTALS: WHITE DOOR EVENTS CATERING: COLET TA'S INVITATIONS: RSVP STATIONERS ENTERTAINMENT: THE SOUL SHOCKERS BAKER: MISS MUFF'N `WEDDING DRESS: MAGGIE LOUISE MAKEUP: ISABELLA ALLEN TAKE HOME FAVORS: SUGAR AND HONEY COOKIES

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EDXE PS EI GR N IENCE THIS

GREE TINGS FROM

Oxford,Mississippi

T H E C H A R M I N G S M A L L TO W N W I T H B I G - C I T Y A P P E A L

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DESIGN

SPRINGTIME IN OXFORD IS THE REWARD FOR GE T TING THROUGH THE COLD WINTER MONTHS. AS THE DAYS GE T LONGER, THE TOWN BUSTLES WITH MORE ACTIVITIES TO FILL THE DAYS. VISITORS WHO ENJOY A WEEKEND IN OXFORD QUICKLY SEE WHY IT WAS VOTED

America's Best College Town

BY ESPN.

TEXT & PHOTOS COURTESY OF VISIT OXFORD

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EXPERIENCE THIS

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with two

James Beard

award-winning chefs, Oxford welcomes foodies as spring paves the way for outdoor dining and patio/balcony sitting. The downtown square boasts over 10 patios and balconies that are perfect for an afternoon cocktail with a side of sunset. With the expansion of sidewalks on Jackson Avenue East , comfor table outdoor dining is a reality, and spring is the best time to take advantage of this new amenity to the downtown area.

Saint Leo, a 2017 James Beard nominee, is perfect for an al fresco Italian meal on its newly expanded outdoor seating.

A newcomer to the Square, Yūgō is an Asian fusion restaurant with chef Cameron Br yant at the helm. The menu reflects influences from all over Asia including Japanese, Chinese and Thai cuisines in the form of dim sum, as well as signature entrees such as Szechuan spiced steak or shrimp pad Thai. While the dining room creates an ethereal atmosphere, Yūgō also offers guests an option to dine on the patio year-round.

Ole Miss spor ts fans will have plenty of oppor tunities to catch the Rebels in action this spring as the softball and baseball seasons will be in full swing. There’s no atmosphere quite like that at Swayze Field when the Rebels take the diamond. Once a player hits a home run, there’s a 100 percent chance of beer showers expected in right field. Football fans missing the gridiron action can mark their calendars for the Grove Bowl Spring Game, scheduled for April 23 in Vaught-Hemingway Stadium.

As spring fever hits, more and more people find their way outdoors and there’s plenty of wide open space in Oxford. The South Campus Rail Trail offers a clearly marked path through a canopy of trees in an old railroad bed. For a shor ter wooded path, the Bailey Woods Trail is an excellent choice.

The one-mile hike connects the University of Mississippi Museum with the grounds of Rowan Oak , home of Nobel Prize-winning author, William Faulkner. Finally, for a less wooded option, Pat Lamar Park boasts a paved walking path, Lake Patsy and rotating pieces of the Yokna Sculpture Trail.

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PHOTO BY ERIN AUSTEN ABBOTT 52 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2022

music

fans love Oxford; this spring holds many oppor tunities to hear live music. The 25th anniversar y of the Double Decker Ar ts Festival will celebrate food, music and the ar ts with its much-anticipated return Apr. 22-23. The festival takes over the historic downtown square for two days with live music and ar t vendors.

Enter tainment star ts on Friday night and is slated to be bigger than ever before.

The lineup opens with The Wilkins Sisters who mix gospel, blues and R&B to make music that is moving, soulful and uplifting.

Up next , Americana alt-countr y band 49 Winchester takes the stage. The Friday night headliner is countr y crooner, and former Ole Miss baseball pitcher, Brett Young who has received nominations from Teen Choice, ACM, Billboard, CMT and CMA Awards. After racking seven consecutive No. 1 hits, Rolling Stone deemed Young “one of countr y ’s most consistent radio stars.”

On Saturday, over 140 ar tists will set up around the square while local food vendors tempt visitors with delectable aromas from their booths. The music on Saturday star ts at 11 a.m. with Happy Landing, an alternative folk band from Oxford, followed by blues ar tist Buffalo Nichols. Countr y singersongwriter Maggie Rose will take the stage next , followed by Samantha Fish, a singersongwriter and guitarist who blends blues, rock , countr y, funk , bluegrass and ballads.

Going into the night por tion of acts, legendar y R&B and gospel singer Mavis Staples will perform. Staples is both a Blues and a Rock and Rock Hall of Famer as well as a Grammy award winner. New Orleans jazz and funk sensation, Trombone Shor ty & Orleans Avenue take the stage next to fill the air with sounds from brass band blare and deep-groove funk to bluesy beauty and hip hop/pop swagger. The final performance will be by Billboard award-nominated rock band the Revivalists. Renowned for their powerful live performances, soulful alt-rock anthems and distinct mix of many of the classic styles of American music, the eight-piece ensemble is led by the incredible voice of front man David Shaw.

For more information on the Double Decker Festival and other springtime events, or to plan a trip to Oxford, go to VisitOxfordMS.com.

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“HERE IN NATCHEZ, STROLLING DOWN MAIN STREET OR ACROSS THE NATCHEZ BLUFFS CAN FEEL AS THOUGH EVERY SOUTHERN ROMANCE NOVEL WAS IMAGINED BY THIS VERY SPOT,” SAYS DEVIN HEATH, DIRECTOR OF VISIT NATCHEZ. “WE WELCOME TRAVELERS TO COME FALL IN LOVE WITH THE ROMANCE OF OUR CITY.” 54 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2022

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EXPERIENCE THIS

learn gardening from the pros on the

MOST BEAUTIFUL CAMPUS IN AMERICA

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EXPERIENCE THIS

TEXT & PHOTOS BY ROSIE VASSALLO GROVE PHOTO BY UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

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PHOTO BY UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

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how

does the Grove, a beautiful 10-acre plot of bright green grass shaded by large oak trees in the center of the Ole Miss campus, make a miraculous comeback year after year following football season?

The University of Mississippi’s landscape guru, Jeff McManus, will share his secrets to bringing the picturesque setting back annually during a weekend-long camp next month.

The Grove is described as “the Holy Grail of tailgating sites” by Sporting News, and this pre-game tradition of socializing includes 100,000 football fans trodding its soil ever y fall. Imagine that many people on your front lawn and the results. The myster y of its regeneration, along with many others, will be revealed at the fifth annual Landscaping Camp May 27-28 in Oxford.

Campers will indulge their passion in learning how to make the most of their outdoor spaces with classes and field trips initiating from the Inn at Ole Miss. McManus, the director of landscape ser vices for Ole Miss, will be the featured speaker. His work has gained the University of Mississippi accolades as “most beautiful campus” by several national publications. He will share his secrets, offer tips on low-maintenance gardening and present demonstrations including how to “prune like a pro.” “ With Ole Miss and its legendar y Grove continuing to influence visitors from far and wide, those attending this Memorial Day weekend filled with landscaping ideas will have the ultimate experience of personally being guided by the leader himself, Jeff McManus,” states Rosie Vassallo, camp director and director of retiree attraction for the Oxford-Lafayette County Economic Development Foundation.

First impressions and curb appeal can be critical to a home’s value. Wendy Carmean, a remarkable plantscaper and owner of Wend & Willow in Oxford, says, “Residential plantscaping adds vitality and balance to our lives. Plantscaping doesn’t need to be fussy or complicated. The type of plant , the right container, correct placement , and care tips can make being a plant parent an effor tless

task when creating a cozy, happy home.”

Carmean is slated to present during Landscape Camp, sharing colorful insights and inspirations while addressing “Front Porch Appeal.”

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EXPERIENCE THIS

Cost for the camp is $300 and attendance will be limited. For more information, contact Rosie Vassallo at 662 .234.4651 or rosie@oxfordms.com.

The Inn at Ole Miss, host hotel for the event , is offering a discounted nightly rate of $109 for a Deluxe Accommodation or $149 for a Deluxe Suite. These rates listed are for single/double occupancy and the offer expires April 27. There will be a $10 per person fee for additional adults.

Presenting sponsors include The University of Mississippi, Dabney Nurser y, The Inn at Ole Miss, Grace Realty Group, Visit Oxford, Stages MS Magazine and At Home Memphis and Mid South Magazine. Hospitality Sponsors include B&B Concrete, mTrade, Stout ’s Carpet , Mississippi Federal Credit Union, Life Dental Oxford, Shaw Ace Hardware, MaxxSouth and Oxford Eye Clinic & Optical.

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attendees

will also learn about “Gardening for the Birds” from Ken Hackman, aka “the Birdman” of Super talk Radio’s Weekend Gardening program. Hackman teaches universitylevel Inver tebrate Zoology and Ver tebrate Zoology at Madison Central High School.

He has been named Teacher of the Year for both Madison Central High School and the Madison County Schools. Additionally, he is a two-time State Conser vation Educator of the Year, having been recognized by both the Mississippi Wildlife Federation and the Mississippi Association of Conser vation Districts. Hackman has ser ved as president of the Mississippi Ornithological Society and the Jackson Audubon Society.

Vines are a quick way to add a pop of color to a fence or trellis and perfect for adding privacy to a home or hiding unsightly items. However, planting the wrong variety can result in a challenge. Cer tified Master Gardener of Lafayette County Karen Travillo, a Texas native and graduate of Lamar University with a degree in education and a minor in ar t , will be offering advice on the best noninvasive vines to choose to avoid a high-maintenance nightmare. Travillo currently ser ves as vice president of the Master Gardeners of Lafayette County and has given gardening presentations to Master Gardeners and local civic organizations. She has also contributed to gardening ar ticles for the Oxford Newcomers and Friends newsletter and the Master Gardener website.

Helping homeowners solve their gardening issues through the Master Gardener Home Consulting Program is one of her favorite activities, so she will be ready to answer campers’ questions.

Impor ted from England to Oxford in 1994, the double decker buses are icons in the city of Oxford. Par ticipants will enjoy riding one of these historic vehicles while learning about notable sites in the city. First stop will be at the home of Bo and Jodie Marsalis for an exclusive yard and garden tour. This picturesque proper ty, inspired by McManus, is landscaped with ornamental grasses, shrubs and trees and features a stunning fountain on the patio. On the back of the house, enviable raised garden beds will surely inspire campers to create their own.

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sp r in g INTO COLOR WITH GEMSTONES The birds are chirping, flowers are blooming and temperatures are starting to climb. As we transition our wardrobes from the covered-up days of winter to the open windows of spring it’s time to take in all of the color. One of the best ways to embrace color is through the beautiful hues in gemstone jewelry. Adding gemstone jewelry to your wardrobe is as simple as looking inside your closet. We all gravitate towards certain color families and there is a colored gemstone out there for everyone. The jewelry experts at Sissy’s Log Cabin have shared some of their favorite gemstone pieces to help you spruce up your wardrobe this spring.

Expressing yourself through color is the easiest way to show your personality, and red speaks to passion. The most iconic red gemstone is the ruby and the wearer will automatically feel sexy wearing any manner of jewelry bestowing this gem.

An elegant pair of dangle ruby earrings with a classic white button down-shirt and a cozy tan cardigan with jeans is the perfect ensemble for an April date night.

Spring sunsets are an amazing display of pinks and purples.

As we get fashion inspiration from nature’s beauty, it is pink tourmaline and amethyst that come to mind first. Pink tourmaline is essentially feminine; wearing this gemstone with any pink outfit will make it swoon worthy. Pairing amethyst earrings with a lilac dress and neutral flats makes a sophisticated office look.

The first blades of grass resemble the color of peridot.

Known for its calming properties, a peridot ring is a wonderful accessory for any wardrobe and really makes a statement with white or purple outfits. Emeralds have such vibrant color and add elegance to any look. An emerald pendant with a lightweight sweater and green pencil skirt will surely turn heads.

As warmer days arrive and blue skies fill our days, don the captivating color of paraiba tourmaline. A rare beauty, this gemstone is mined in the specific region of Paraiba, Brazil.

Accessorize your favorite sundress with an extraordinary blue pendant.

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The spring and summer months present an opportunity to steal the show with statement earrings. Pair a sleek ponytail with brilliant diamond and sapphire hoops. Sapphires and diamonds are great for everyday wear. Coming in at the top of the Mohs Hardness Scale, these gemstones are ideal for the lady who never sacrifices style.

Whether you’re shopping for a gift, special occasion, or to add something new to your wardrobe, the jewelry experts at Sissy’s Log Cabin are always delighted to help. With in-house financing and layaway options available, you can get the perfect looks without breaking the bank.

Visit the Memphis location in the Laurelwood Shopping Center or shop online at SissysLogCabin.com.

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MID SOUTH NIGHT LIGHTS

enhance your home with OUTD OOR LIGHTING TEXT & PHOTOS COURTESY OF MID SOUTH NIGHT LIGHTS

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outdoor lighting

The truth is, outdoor lighting has come far in recent years makes the

thanks to new technology. But you’d be shocked how many so-

difference between spending more time outside and feeling

called Memphis outdoor lighting companies are not keeping up.

proud of your home—or being embarrassed and feeling like you

This is ultimately a huge disser vice to you.

can’t use your yard at night.

It ’s no simple task to choose an outdoor lighting company in Memphis. These days it seems that a growing number of other trades are star ting to offer outdoor lighting and that can make the

GE T TO KNOW JESSE Jesse Wisley has been installing and maintaining outdoor

choice difficult.

lighting since 2008; he star ted Mid-South Night Lights in 2011.

But do you really want to trust your outdoor lighting needs to just anyone?

Born and raised in Memphis—and now raising a family of his own here—Jesse knows and loves the area. As a leader in the Memphis outdoor lighting market , he is committed to continually advancing the field so that homeowners have access to the best products and ser vice.

THE MID-SOUTH NIGHT LIGHTS DIFFERENCE Ideally, you want a local outdoor lighting company that is truly focused on being lighting exper ts rather than a jack of all trades.

This is where Mid-South Night Lights, an award-winning company, shines.

Outdoor lighting in Memphis is what we do all day, ever y day.

It ’s not an add-on ser vice for an extra revenue stream, so it ’s not something we just do from time to time. It ’s our focus—and frankly, our passion, too. We’re committed to staying up to date and that means traveling to trade shows across the countr y to continually be ahead of the cur ve and learn about new techniques, skills and products.

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Continuing education has been a big par t of that effor t. In addition to keeping up with what ’s new, Jesse is currently enrolled in a two-year program to become a Cer tified Outdoor Lighting Designer from the Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals. He says it ’s rewarding to help Memphis homeowners get the most out of their proper ty with the addition of outdoor lighting.

When the sun goes down, a home needs illumination to keep it safe, vibrant and welcoming. Whether for security or enter taining, an LED lighting system created for your home’s par ticular needs can make a measurable difference.

each

project should focus on

the homeowners’ goals and take existing landscape features into consideration.

Landscape lighting designs can range from simple and elegant to complex and intricate, depending on the taste of the client. Exterior lighting should be purposeful and well-balanced, using various types of lights that ser ve specific purposes within the landscape.

Flood: This is a common landscape light people think of when it comes to outdoor lighting. Flood lights are some of the brightest within a landscape and cast light at a wider angle.

Downlight: A downlight is typically located high on the trunk of a tree or on a branch and aimed downward toward a lawn or path.

Well: These lights are buried beneath the surface of the ground so light is visible, while the light fixture itself is hidden.

Bullet: A bullet light casts a narrower light beam compared to floods and wells.

Wash: Wash lights cast softer light than a flood and are used around larger spaces and walls.

Garden: As the name implies, these lights are used throughout garden and plant beds. They can also be used along a path.

A professionally designed lighting system can increase a proper ty ’s value by as much as 12 percent , drastically improving its curb appeal. In addition, it can help to deter criminal activity. With both aesthetic and practical benefits, installing an exterior lighting system, or updating an existing one to reflect current styles and safety guidelines, is a smar t decision for any home.

Some of the most popular places to install new lighting are along driveways and walkways, in plant beds, in patio areas, and facing the house. For a seamless look , make sure that all exterior lighting hardware blends with existing landscaping.

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E N T E R TA I N I N G

TEXT & DESIGN GINNI JONES | PHOTOS ANNABELLA CHARLES

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E N T E R TA I N I N G

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E N T E R TA I N I N G

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E N T E R TA I N I N G

the table This table was a dream to create; from the bright and colorful flowers to the sweet spring china, it came together perfectly to celebrate the season! For the flower arrangements I layered baby blue delphinium, white snapdragons and lilac stock to create wonderful height at the center of the table.

The dining room has tall, vaulted ceilings, so I wanted the flowers to match the grand scale of the room. To fill in the rest of the arrangement , I chose all my favorite spring flowers. Purple anemones, Menton French tulips, Dutch tulips, Queen Anne’s lace, craspedia, blush roses and baby blue and green hydrangeas were all inter twined to help create the backdrop of spring flowers.

On the table, I paired Herend China in my new favorite pattern, Queen Victoria in green, with a matching Herend Silk Ribbon charger. To add a bit more tex ture, I layed the plates on a fun woven placemat. Vintage linen napkins held my grandmother ’s beautiful silver flatware. To brighten up the wood dining table I chose Estelle Colored Glasses—their newest champagne flutes come in some amazing colors. I went with the purple and paired them with the Aerin x Williams Sonoma white confetti glasses for water. I placed the menu for the luncheon on top of the china, wrapped in a slate blue silk ribbon. My talented friend Caroline Hughes wrote the menu on the same Dogwood Hill cards I used for the invitations. I wanted something fun and fresh, and Caroline’s handwriting was perfect for the menu!

Finishing the look were my go-to favorites, Dina lamps from White Door Events. The new taller lamps are perfect for long tables, so I scattered a few down the tablescape. The sage color was just right for the theme and the lamps gave off the perfect amount of light.

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E N T E R TA I N I N G

the menu I know I say this ever y time, but the menu was so much fun to create! I wanted to include typical luncheon items punched up with seasonal goodies like deviled eggs, radishes and little gem lettuce, so we ser ved Pimento Cheese and Cucumber Dill Tea Sandwiches, Chicken Salad Croissants, Beet Stained Deviled Eggs (so pretty and unique!), Little Gem Wedges with Avocado and Radishes, Green Goddess Potato Salad with Green Beans and Cucumbers, Bogie’s Pasta Salad (always a favorite), and a Seasonal Fruit Salad with a Honey Lime Glaze. We put desser t in the ver y talented hands of Nuha Abuduhair at 17 Berkshire. She and I briefly discussed the theme for the luncheon and she immediately suggested her new petit fours adorned with buttercream radishes, carrots and flowers. They were adorable and delicious! As was the carrot cake decorated to match the petit fours—definitely a must tr y!

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E N T E R TA I N I N G

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E N T E R TA I N I N G

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the decor White Door Events had ever y thing we wanted and more! From precious, new wicker chairs to a white market car t , it all fit the theme of the event to a T. In the dining room, we picked their new Weez y chairs for the head chairs and the Louis natural chairs for the sides of the table.

Since the dining room is such a large space, I set White Door ’s sage Felicia sofa on the other side of the table with a pair of Ramsey woven chairs with the lattice garden stool in between. The real show stoppers were the white dogwood trees in stunning aged iron planters. Outside in the atrium, the adorable white market car t held the drinks for the day in st yle. Nex t to the car t , a Weez y chair and a lattice garden stool paired with some sweet blue hydrangeas made the cutest vignette.

Overhead, we hung White Door ’s new Cambridge pendant. The linen drum shade was perfect for the event ’s aesthetic and worked nicely with the chair and car t.

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IN THE KITCHEN

Beef Tartare atop Toasted Crostini RECIPE & PHOTO JIM NORTON

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IN THE KITCHEN

LOOKING FOR A N I M P R E S SI V E A N D D E L IC IO U S A P P E T I Z E R T O SE RV E AT YOU R N E X T D I N N E R PA RT Y ?

L O O K N O F U RT H E R .

MY RECIPE FOR B E E F TA RTA R E AT O P T OA S T E D C R O S T I N I I S “O F F- T H E - C HA RT S” D E L IC IO U S ! EV E N I F YOU ’ R E N O T A H U G E FA N O F T H E I D E A O F A TA RTA R E , YO U MUST GIVE THIS A T RY !

THE STEPS: Preheat oven to 375˚. Toast slices of baguette for about 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.

Using a sharp knife, slice and chop filet into small squares. The smaller the squares, the more tender the meat will be.

THE INGREDIENTS:

Add chopped filet and all

1 7-oz. filet mignon

remaining ingredients to

1 Tbsp. chopped shallot

a small mixing bowl and

1 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley

fold well to combine. Serve

1 Tbsp. capers

immediately or place in

¼ cup mayonnaise

the refrigerator for up to

½ tsp. salt

two hours for best results

½ tsp. pepper

and texture. Remove from

2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

refrigerator 15-20 minutes

1 small baguette, thinly sliced

before serving. Serve in a solid round or atop individual crostini. Enjoy!

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H E A LT H Y Y O U

Eat Your Way Clean STORY MICHELLE JOHNS

MA, LPC-MHSP (TEMP), NCC, 200 HR E-RTY, 500 HR RYT

a clean

digestive system optimizes the body’s ability to digest food and absorb nutrients. The digestive system often doesn’t receive as much attention as the heart, lungs and brain and is sometimes overlooked in regards to its importance for overall health and well-being. More than half of the immune system is located within the digestive tract. Our saliva and airways contain an enzyme that destroys bacteria.

Mucus membranes in the bowel play a vital role in producing antibodies that find, mark and destroy pathogens, and remember pathogens for future protection. Additionally, 90 percent of serotonin receptors are located in the gut. Serotonin is the hormone responsible for transmission of nerve impulses between neurons (neurotransmission). It is involved in regulation of cardiac arrhythmia, neurological (brain) functioning, blood pressure, behavior, moods, memory functions and metabolic processes.

Gut health is significant to both physical well-being (immune system) and mental health (brain functioning). The impact of gut health is evident in everyday life experiences as it is intimately connected to emotions, mood and overall functioning. Food intolerances or gut inflammation can contribute to behavioral issues. An improperly functioning digestive system can cause fatigue and sluggishness.

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the urge to eat more inflammatory foods.

Many digestive issues are directly related to diet and emotions. Three common digestive issues are gluten sensitivity, insufficient gut bacteria, and insufficient stomach acid.

Side effects of these issues include gas, constipation, bloating, brain fog, indigestion, heartburn, leaky gut and irritable bowel syndrome.

Prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics may help alleviate these problems when accompanied by foods that also mitigate digestive issues. Before going into details on the right foods, let’s get a little better understanding of the impact of these issues.

Gluten is a natural protein found in grains such as wheat, rye, barley and oats. These grains are found in popular menu items like pizza, hamburgers and breaded fried foods.

An inflammatory response to gluten irritates the lining of the small intestine, disrupting its ability to absorb vital nutrients from foods to protect the body from infection. Additionally, a breakdown in the mucosal lining of the small intestine can cause leaky gut syndrome, which allows undigested food particles to pass through the intestinal barrier and into the bloodstream. This invokes an immune response in the blood and causes the immune system to fight unnecessarily. The stress can result in an autoimmune disease.

H E A LT H Y Y O U

Insufficient gut bacteria is often the side effect of antibiotic and other pharmaceutical overuse or of a low-fiber diet. Signs include constipation, absence of gas, allergies, brain fog and fatigue. A healthy gut is home to over 100 trillion microorganisms that help train the immune system, attack foreign invaders and produce hormones.

Eating or taking probiotics without prebiotics is not helpful toward the goal of establishing healthy gut flora. Postbiotics are the waste left behind from preand probiotics and help slow the growth of harmful bacteria. Postbiotics include amino acids and vitamins B and K. They are as important as probiotics.

Insufficient stomach acid can most easily be identified by indigestion, reflux and heartburn. This condition inhibits the production of hydrochloric acid (HCI), which helps break down food in the upper intestines. Additionally, stomach acid stimulates the gallbladder to produce CCK and release bile necessary for the digestion of fat and to generate good bacteria to build a strong immune system.

Eat a daily diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Include prebiotic sources such as garlic, bananas, onions and asparagus, as well as probiotic foods like yogurt and sauerkraut. Avoid processed or packaged foods that contain a lot of additives and preservatives. Prebiotics are foods high in fiber and feed probiotics. Fermented foods contain probiotics and leave behind healthy postbiotics. In addition to eating well, take a good pre/probiotic such as Jarrow Formulas Saccharomyces Boulardii + MOS.

Eating a diet of prebiotic, probiotic and postbiotic foods is the first step in improving overall gut health, immune system and mental well-being. Prebiotics are indigestible by humans but help nourish probiotics.

When the gut is healthy, the body and mind are healthy!

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April 2022 HOM E F E AT U R E Special Thanks First Fruit Collection firstfruitcollection.com Sélavie Photography Selaviephoto.com

ENTERTAINING Special Thanks Ginni Jones @ginnijones Annabella Charles Photography annabellacharles.com Herend China herendusa.com Estelle Colored Glass estellecoloredglass.com White Door Events whitedoorevents.com Pearl by Lela Rose pearl.nyc 17 Berkshire 17berkshire.com

EXPERIENCE THIS Special Thanks Visit Oxford visitoxford.com Oxford-Lafayette County Economic Development Foundation oxfordms.com/economic-development/

IN THE KITCHEN Special Thanks Jim Norton thenortonrecipe.com

HEALTHY YOU Special Thanks Michelle Johns mjohns@transformingwellness.com Wellness MD wellnessmd.clinic April 2022 • athomemms.com | 89

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