HOME FEATURE:
ENTERTAINING:
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TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S
26 | H O M E F E A T UR E Kim Loudenbeck of Warehouse 67 Design redefines the look of her family’s Pickwick home.
40 | D E S IGN Bobbi and Mike Landreth turn to Kimberly Bacon of Kimberly Bacon Interiors to design their Piperton Preserve home from the ground up.
70 | E NT E R T A INING Inspired by the bright colors of Laura Park's outdoor dining collection, Ginni Jones creates a seasonal picnic table — just in time for the warm summer weather!
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TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S
JUNE 2021 home & design 26 HOME FEATURE Lake Life Redefined
40 DESIGN Timeless Design 70 ENTERTAINING A Laura Park Picnic
for you
52 WEDDING
Mr. & Mrs. Louis Benton, Jr.
54 GIFT GUIDE Father's Day
64 IN THE GARDEN
Hydrangeas
82 HEALTHY YOU
Strengthening Your Family Connection
food & travel 56 GETAWAY
Getaway with the Girls
86 IN THE KITCHEN Artichoke & Olive Gazpacho
in every issue
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14 PUBLISHER'S NOTE
89 SOURCES
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JUNE 2021 • VOL. 20 NO. 3 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 EXECUTIVE GAIL HARRELL | gharrell@athomemms.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE CHRIS PUGH | chrisapugh@gmail.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 320 SOUTH WALNUT BEND, SUITE 11 CORDOVA, TN 38018 | 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: 320 South Walnut Bend, Suite 11, Cordova, TN 38018. 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, 320 South Walnut Bend, Suite 11, Cordova, TN 38018. 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, 320 South Walnut Bend, Suite 11, Cordova, TN 38018 or to tmonger@athomemms.com.
@athomemagazine
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PUBLISHER'S
Note
I can’t believe we are coming to the halfway mark for 2021; we’re out of lockdown and summertime is here! Like the rest of 2020, summer last year was far from normal to me. The heat and humidity were there and so was our relaxing time on the water but the most important element was missed. That was our time spent with family and friends. Our river house in Arkansas, usually packed with our kids and guests, was rather sad and empty for the first time in 24 years. This year is looking a bit different, thankfully, and I can’t wait to have our home once again filled with folks, food and even a bit of chaos! Our home feature this month is a breathtaking, newly renovated house on beautiful Pickwick Lake—a true family home built for sharing with family and friends and for fun times on the water. It seems that 2021 is the perfect time to start a new journey of making memories as beautiful as the lake home itself. It’s time to get outside, find our happy place and share it with friends and family once again. I know I will not take those times for granted. I am looking so forward to that once-dreaded Costco run with a full cart or two to kick off the season! Wishing you all a safe and happy summer with the added joy of once again being able to share our homes with those we love.
Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER
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H O M E F E AT U R E
LAKE LIFE
redefined 26 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • June 2021
H O M E F E AT U R E
STORY TERRI GLAZER INTERIOR DESIGN K I M LO U D E N B EC K O F WA R E H O U S E 67 PHOTOS ANNABELLA CHARLES June 2021 • athomemms.com | 27
H O M E F E AT U R E
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im Loudenbeck’s latest project, her recently renovated home on Pickwick Lake, brings a new definition to lake life. Asked to tell the story, she begins this way: “We've been in our [Eads] home almost three years now and we had the urge to tackle a new project.” The interior designer and owner of Warehouse 67, a self-confessed “project addict,” attributes her desire to create beautiful spaces to her childhood spent drawing and painting. “To me, renovating a house is like creating a three-dimensional work of art. I get to envision what’s in my head and make
it a reality.” And she continues with a laugh, “I’ve never met a house I didn’t like! Every house I go into, I see what it could be and it just makes me so excited and gives me so much encouragement to transform it into a space that people can live in and enjoy.” Not wanting to move her family again, Kim and her husband Jeremy initially considered flipping a home in the Memphis area, but low inventory in the Mid South real estate market made that challenging. They broadened their geographic range, considering the possibility of operating an AirBnb in coastal Florida, and even as far away as Scotland, but ran into a series of roadblocks that eventually led them in a different direction.
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H O M E F E AT U R E
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fter helping several clients with houses at Pickwick, Kim started to consider a home on the lake. “What I was hearing was that everyone has either a place that’s been passed down in their family for years, or a custom-built new home on the lake. You rarely ever see a beautiful turnkey house that's been renovated to become the best version of a lake home,” she says. After about a year of looking, the couple came across what they saw as the perfect opportunity in the Riverton, AL, area. The 1984 ranch home checked off all the boxes they wanted for a renovation: a large lot, waterfront access and a panoramic view of the water. “I can always change a house,” says Kim, but you can’t change the location.” Once they completed the purchase of the house in July 2020, the family spent the summer enjoying Pickwick Lake, as well as the hiking trails and waterfalls in the Riverton area. They fell in love with the historic area and neighborhood. Over the summer she reached out to other local homeowners to learn what they loved most about their lake houses. She found out that some of the most popular features are a large gathering room, lots of places for people to sleep, a wellappointed kitchen, a covered porch and outdoor living areas, so she set about making plans to reimagine their 1,500-square-foot place into the perfect getaway spot for the family. By October the plans were finalized to double the square footage of the home. Demo began the week of Thanksgiving, overseen by the Loudenbecks. Kim explains that they wanted the project moved along so it would be finished by this summer. “It’s harder when it’s far away. Once you start, you want to get to the end result and just be able to enjoy it. By doing it ourselves we were able to meet that deadline.” They called on subcontractors with whom they had existing relationships in Memphis for part of the work, and also used local workers from the nearby area. 30 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • June 2021
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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
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s was the case with most everything in 2020, the renovation had special complications brought on by the pandemic. “Trying to rebuild during Covid with all the product shortages and challenges, to say it was hard is an understatement,” says Kim. She admits, “We've had to be way more hands on with this project than on any other we've ever done. Even though it's been stressful it's been good because I've learned new things. We even hauled loads of building materials up there ourselves to keep the job on track! I don't know how many miles we put on our vehicles, but now that it's done in record time, six months from start to finish, it's so worth it.” Kim says she loves the fact that the home isn’t a typical “cookie-cutter” new construction. “We kept the beautiful characteristics that were there and we added to it in a way that was harmonious with the original structure. It makes for a very unique home that is intriguing and interesting visually. You never know what's around the corner, and I think that's part of the charm of this property.” June 2021 • athomemms.com | 33
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t had a natural stone exterior, very typical of the area,” says Kim. “On the new addition we added stone to complete that feel and to make it seem like it's been there all along.” The project included a complete gut of the two-story section of the home along with rebuilding the single-story side to make it twostory as well. Maximizing the waterfront location was the Loudenbecks’ first priority. To that end, they replaced walls in the living room and kitchen with 16-foot sliding glass doors to provide expansive water views. Two of the three bedrooms upstairs have a pair of full glass window walls for panoramic views. “You almost feel like you’re floating on the water,” says Kim. She describes the biggest challenge in any renovation project as the limitations involved in working around a footprint that is already established. “We've done a lot of new construction and with that the sky's the limit— you can put walls where you want them. But when you're married to a footprint you have to get much more creative on how you utilize that space.” Despite the constraints, she feels like they were able to pack a lot of features into the lake redo. Designwise, the location of the home gave Kim a sense of freedom to push the limits a bit more than usual. “Here in Memphis you kind of have to keep in certain parameters when you're designing. At the lake I felt like I was a little bit more free to do things that I normally wouldn't do for a main home,” she explains. In her planning of the space, Kim wanted to use a mixture of more modern pieces with traditional elements to redefine lake living. “So many of the lake homes I have been in have either been older homes with a reflection of past generations or newly built homes with a mountain lodge vibe. I wanted to create a space that incorporated all of the natural elements of its surroundings with a fresh approach that is current and relaxed.” June 2021 • athomemms.com | 35
H O M E F E AT U R E
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im used textural details and natural colors to achieve this. One bedroom has the shiplap look, painted in deep navy to give it a pop of color. In another she added green wainscoting. The bonus room is designed in a relaxing natural palette with an unexpected colorful focal point— the American flag that once flew on the original home. In the kitchen, blue-gray cabinets with antique mirror panels, waterfall-edge countertops and gold hardware elevate the design but stop short of making it formal or fussy. Kim even extended the design into the pantry, an often neglected area of nondescript shelving. “The pantry is so cute and cozy,” she says. “We put in cabinets and a countertop. We increased the depth of the wall cabinets and brought them all the way down to the countertop, making it an extension of the kitchen; it doesn't feel utilitarian at all!” At just under 3,000 square feet, the renovated lake house is a bit smaller than most of the projects Kim undertakes, but that presented a distinct advantage when it came to design and furnishings. “Because there aren't as many pieces, it allowed me to hand pick every one for its character and charm. The home is beautiful in itself, but I was able to layer on even more interest with the furnishings and the fixtures,” says the designer. Kim’s affection for her pandemic project is evident in the way she describes it. Although the Pickwick home is dear to her heart, she can’t neglect her passion for projects, so it’s probable that she’ll take on another challenge before too long. She says, “We're looking forward to enjoying it this summer, but we never know what the future holds. I know myself and I know that I'm going to want to do another project. I always tell people, ‘It's not if I do another project, but when."
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H O M E F E AT U R E
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DESIGN
Timeless Design S TO R Y & P H OTO G R A P H Y R O S S G R O U P C R E AT I V E INTERIOR DESIGN K I M B E R LY B A C O N I N T E R I O R S
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DESIGN
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t was time for a change. After raising their family in their home of 15 years, Mike and Bobbi Landreth considered their next steps. With children now grown and out of the house, the Landreths considered the cost of renovating and updating their over 4,500-square-foot home to give it the more open and timeless quality that they desired. However, as homebuilders, they knew their own dilemma well and realized that such a renovation would cost more than they were willing to invest. After further consideration, they concluded that they wanted a smaller home with less maintenance. They decided that it was time to sell and move. Realizing that they needed to make a few cosmetic changes to their house before listing it, Mike and Bobbi sought the help of interior designer Kimberly Bacon to assist in changing some paint colors and in staging their home for sale. This new relationship clicked; Bobbi recalls how well they connected with Kimberly and trusted her to make the necessary changes to put their home on the market. With the update complete, they got an offer the first day. The couple had drawn up preliminary plans for their new house and engaged a longtime associate, architect Mike Trexler, to assist them. And after seeing the success of Kimberly’s design work in staging their prior home, they brought her in to lead the design process for the new house. Bobbi notes that Kimberly chose everything from “driveway to door knobs.” “We put our trust in her and turned her loose,” she recalls. The Landreths chose Derek Eller of Eller Construction to build their new home in the Piperton Preserve neighborhood just east of Collierville. This development offered a relaxed, country feel only seven minutes away from their previous neighborhood, and still near to the city of Collierville. The location was also convenient for them to travel to Pickwick Lake where they like to spend time. Another attraction was the modern farmhouse feel of the homes; their previous house had a French country influence, and they were ready for a change. Also, Piperton Preserve has plans for integrating walkable retail and restaurants into future development, and the couple really liked the idea of having these amenities. June 2021 • athomemms.com | 41
DESIGN
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t the top of Mike and Bobbi’s
wishlist for the new house was an open floor plan with traditional, timeless design and finishes. They wanted a home that could change with them and that could be updated easily over time at little cost as trends change. Bacon suggested a classic backdrop with neutral finishes; colors and textures would be introduced through fabrics and furnishings. And for the open plan, the hub of the house became a U-shaped kitchen with a freestanding island overlooking the main living area. These rooms are also open to the dining area and overlook the patio and backyard. In the kitchen, white Shaker cabinets and stainless steel appliances provide the timeless backdrop. Trimmed with a cove molding, the cabinets rise to the ceiling and are stacked back-to-back in the island to provide ample storage. Adding to the neutral hard surfaces are a white and gray stone countertop and a white ceramic tile backsplash laid in a herringbone pattern running to the ceiling on the kitchen walls. Even the pendant lights over the island are neutral—their clear glass construction and stainless steel trim coordinate perfectly with the appliances and the cabinet hardware. In contrast to this backdrop, a pair of windows flanks the vent hood and provides an opportunity to introduce Roman shades in a bold blue, green and purple fabric with a floral watercolor pattern. This fabric, along with the colors in the new living area rug, provided the color inspiration for the rest of the design. Since the rooms are open to each other, Bacon used the same watercolor fabric in the dining area drapery and on accent pillows in the adjacent family room, lending to her cohesive design plan. The blue upholstery on the island barstools and the blue-green watery tones of three ceramic platters mounted above the cooktop complete the colorful accents in the kitchen.
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DESIGN
Civil War Relief Sculpture 44 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • June 2021
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n adjacent rooms, the walls are painted an off-white, buff color one shade darker than the white of the trim and the built-in bookcases of the main living area. As in the kitchen, the floors are a medium-dark wood tone with a contoured, scraped finish. In the dining area, the table, chairs and buffet came from the family’s previous home. Bacon added color with the watercolor drapery as well as a rug and artwork in blue tones. In the living area, the neutral tones of the sectional sofa and the hard surfaces contrast with colorful accent pillows, newly upholstered chairs from the old house, and new blue and white drapery. In this room Bacon also implemented a fireplace accent wall in a blue tone. This colorful design element that can be changed easily in the future at little cost checked off another item on the homeowners’ wishlist. Bacon’s focus on future design flexibility is also evident in the items on display in the wall of bookcases in the main living area. These include sentimental family heirlooms like Bobbi’s grandfather’s binoculars as well as mementos from the couple’s travels. In the primary bedroom, Bacon maintained the neutral color palette by using browns, beiges, blacks and grays. Incorporating the sofa from the previous house, she brought in new pillow fabric to tie the sofa and new custommade bed together, and she used another easily changeable accent wall in the bedroom to highlight the bed. In the primary bathroom, the same neutral tones are on display. White Shaker vanity cabinetry topped with white and gray stone sits on a dark gray tile floor. This same tile lines the wall surrounding the soaking tub for more interest. The room is calming, clean-lined and transitional in feel. In describing Bacon’s style, Bobbi observes that there is an “elegance about her work” but it is “still down to earth.” It’s clear that the designer/client relationship on this new project has been a success. The couple has built a timeless home that can change with them into the future and has gained a good friend in the process. Bobbi describes how much she trusts her work and her style and mentions she’s looking forward to another project. Turning the conversation for a moment to her Pickwick house, she wonders, “When can I get Kimberly here?” June 2021 • athomemms.com | 45
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WEDDING
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Mallory Green & Louis Wilson Benton Jr. J U LY 1 8 , 2 0 2 0 | O X F O R D , M S
Parents of the Bride: Lucy & Tom Green Parents of the Groom: Damea & Louis Benton WEDDING & RECEPTION: THE JEFFERSON OF OXFORD EVENT PLANNER: MONA DUNLAP FLORIST: OXFORD FLORAL & PAULA DECLERK PHOTOGRAPHER: TAYLOR SQUARE PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHER: DAN FRAZIER PRODUC TIONS ENTERTAINMENT: SHARP NINE MUSIC BAKER: CAKES BY MOM AND ME CATERER: ELIZABETH HEISKELL INVITATIONS:MÉNAGE STATIONERY WEDDING DRESS: MAGGIE LOUISE BRIDAL MAKEUP: RIVERS COUNTISS HAIR:LA ROUSSE SALON RENTALS: DETAILS SPECIALTY RENTALS GETAWAY CAR: TRICIA MYERS
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GIFT GUIDE
TAG Heuer Aquaracer Quartz Watch, $3,450 Sissy’s Log Cabin | Memphis, TN sissyslogcabin.com
Secrid Wallet, $89.95 Oxbeau | Memphis, TN shopoxbeau.com
William Henry Wave Damascus and Pine Pocket Knife, $825 Jack Black Products, Prices range Sissy’s Log Cabin | Memphis, TN Magnolia House | Southaven, MS sissyslogcabin.com magnoliahouse.com
The Hero Code by Admiral William H. McRaven, $20 Magnolia House | Southaven, MS magnoliahouse.com 54 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • June 2021
Caswell- Massey Men’s Products, $6-$36 Cotton Row Uniques | Memphis, TN 901.590.3647
Corkcicle Whiskey Wedge, $24.99 Truffle Pig | Collierville, TN shoptrufflepig.com
Old Rip Van Winkle Hat, $30 Cotton Row Uniques | Memphis, TN 901.590.3647
Theodore Leather Wine Tote by Mission Mercantile $272 Babcock Gifts | Memphis, TN babcockgifts.com
FATHER'S DAY GIFT GUIDE
Men's Rolex Watch, Call for pricing Platinum Jewelers | Memphis, TN 901.680.0020
Soapstone Trays XS $62, Small $68, Medium $85, Large $105 Social | Memphis, TN social-memphis.com
Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven, $20 Magnolia House | Southaven, MS magnoliahouse.com
Pappy Co. Bourbon Bottle Socks, $14 Cotton Row Uniques | Memphis, TN 901.590.3647
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G E TA W AY
GETAWAY -with the girls-
TEXT AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF VISIT CORINTH
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G E TA W AY
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EGXEPTA E RWI EAY NCE THIS
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t’s no secret that a trip with friends is a recipe for memories that last a lifetime. The challenge, then, comes in deciding where to go and what to do. Keeping things fairly local has become a necessity as of late. Where can you go on a tank of gas and stay as safe as possible? And what would you do? Well, maybe… Mani-pedis for the gals, brunch on a breathtaking rooftop patio with mimosas and sparkling wine, or maybe enjoy a meal prepared by a private chef? Kick back in a beautiful home set up especially for you after you attend a personalized painting class. Top it off with shopping in one-of-akind boutiques, strolls around a picturesque downtown, and tons of selfie-friendly locales to ensure your social media lets everyone know how much fun you’re having! Corinth has all of this and more. Tucked away in the northeast corner of Mississippi you’ll have the trip of a lifetime for you and your squad of friends. Start off with booking your stay at The Cottage, a cozy bungalow in the heart of downtown Corinth, or right next door at the Sanctuary, a renovated Episcopal church built in the 1800s appointed with unique antiques, a loft bedroom, and a great room perfect for late- night coffee and chats. For larger groups, the Carriage House is a newly refurbished vacation rental with every amenity and spectacular decor. All these options are located within walking distance of downtown shopping and dining, all locally owned and operated. Once you’ve booked your lodging, make some plans for fun! If you’re in Corinth on a weekday, your first stop should definitely be Abe’s Grill, the oldest diner on Highway 72. Take a seat at the bar and the Whitfield family will serve you their legendary biscuits, tenderloin and whatever else you can imagine. If a day of pampering is on your radar, Rossi’s Relaxstation should be your destination. It’s located in Corinth’s scenic Soco District, along with boutiques, a coffee shop and a bakery. Schedule a session for your group to be beautified from head to toe, then stop in at the interesting variety of shops down Wick Street.
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EGXEPTA E RWI EAY NCE THIS
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o enhance your afternoon of shopping in downtown’s leisure district, pick up a cocktail and take it with you as you browse the streets. smith. restaurant offers specialty beverages you won’t find anywhere else; try the Fillmore Feel Good! The self-guided 60 Sights in 60 Minutes walking tour is a perfect opportunity to sip and stroll while taking in the city’s sights. For a snack, be sure to stop in and visit Mississippi’s oldest drugstore, Borroum’s. The long counter with stools and the old-fashioned soda fountain will take care of any sweet cravings you have, and the view of Corinth’s 100-year-old courthouse will provide an ideal backdrop for photos. While you’re there, be sure to order a slugburger—the sandwich that put this city on the map. Shopping in Corinth isn’t complete without a visit to Sanctuary, where antiques and art greet you. Make sure you set aside time for browsing, because everyone in your party will find plenty to love (and take home)! The evenings are full of possibilities for you and your group: schedule a private class, have a catered dinner prepared just for you, or visit any of Corinth’s downtown hotspots for unparalleled dining. If a personalized class for your group sounds like fun, you’ll have options. Elizabeth Spencer Designs, a motherdaughter team of artists and interior designers, offers floral arranging and painting classes by appointment; Southern Magnolia, housed in the historic Biggers’ Hardware building, offers charcuterie, painting and crafting workshops (with wine!); and designer/retailer Kates & Co offers painting and floral sessions. All of these can be specialized to your group, so with a little planning, your trip will truly be a memorable one. Corinth’s locally owned restaurants will all be eager to help you find the best dining experience possible, and in the downtown area there is plenty to choose from. Pizza Grocery is a renovated warehouse on the edge of downtown, and its menu includes everything you might expect, plus so much more. Pizza, pasta, calzones, salads, steaks, weekend specials…you’ll be sure to find something to please everyone. Upstairs is the Pizza Grocery coffee bar, the perfect spot for an after-dinner tiramisu or bread pudding. June 2021 • athomemms.com | 61
EGNE TTA EW R TA AYI N I N G
S T Y L I N G & S TO R Y G I N N I J O N E S
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ust down Cruise Street you’ll find Vicari Italian Grill, where the whole group will find spectacular and lavish dishes, drinks and desserts. Despite the name, the list of entrees includes steaks, lamb and an array of specials. Up the staircase is a full bar, complete with couches just right for conversation. If your group is feeling a bit more casual, V Taco offers customizable rice bowls, street tacos, cocktails and a breezy screened rooftop porch. Most weekends find this area filled with live music or karaoke. Overlooking the most-traveled corner in downtown is Corinth’s newest restaurant, Conservatory by Vicari. An open-air patio provides al fresco dining you’ll never forget. If eating outdoors isn’t your thing but the view is, the glassed-in dining area gives you all the view with none of the outside. Conservatory’s wine bar and gelato are its culinary prides, but the brunch/lunch and generous appetizer menu will leave you speechless. Housed in a historic former bank across from the photo-ready “Welcome to Corinth” mural on Fillmore Street waits smith. restaurant, famous for the “secondbest” steaks in town (ask them where to find the best ones!). Their menu features “fine dining made casual,” and from appetizers to dessert, you will be certain to find the dining experience you crave. Downtown Corinth has a variety of other eateries specializing in everything from authentic Thai to historic tamales. There’s something to please every palate, and all local restaurants offer takeout as well, if your group would prefer to hang out in the comforts of home. Pending availability, several private chefs in town would be happy to cook just for you! Whatever amenities you take advantage of during your Corinth getaway, you’ll find the perfect mix of leisure and uniqueness.
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IN THE GARDEN
hydr a ngeas
STORY DALE SKAGGS, DIREC TOR OF HORTICULTICULTURE, DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS
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NDI NE G I ENNTTHEER TA G AI R N
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fter the spring riot of color with azaleas, dogwoods, bulbs and spring-flowering shrubs at the Dixon, we are always looking for plants to extend our blooming season and provide summer flowers that are showy. In June, the hydrangeas take center stage for a colorful show. Everyone loves hydrangeas. Many people associate them with their grandmothers’ gardens, so they evoke pleasant childhood memories. Although several types of hydrangeas are available, including H. quercifolia, H. arborescens, and H. paniculata, all with their own special attributes, the one most often associated with the name “hydrangea” is the largeflowered, big leaf hydrangea, Hydrangea macrophylla. These are sometimes called mopheads or French hydrangeas. Florists sell them, and they are especially popular as a potted-plant gift on Mother’s Day. Although these gift plants can be planted in the landscape, they don’t always perform well because they are usually selected for forcing and greenhouse culture, not necessarily the best for a garden. In my opinion there is no better color in the garden than an iridescent blue hydrangea, but if you like pink, you can change the color on most of the big-leaf hydrangeas. These plants react to the alkalinity or acidity in the soil by changing the color of the blooms, so by adding lime you can change your flowers to pink. Our native soils are slightly acidic, so we usually get some shade of blue on most flowers here. Iron sulfate or aluminum sulfate can be added to intensify the color of the blooms to even deeper and truer blues. It is best to make these adjustments early in the season before the flowers begin to emerge. These plants thrive with adequate moisture and morning sun. They require sun to flower but perform better in the Mid South with afternoon shade.
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IENX PTEHREI EGNACRED TE H NI S
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E N T E R TA I N I N G
A
common question I’m asked about these plants is, “Why is my hydrangea not flowering?” There are generally two main reasons: late freezes and especially cold winters zap the flower buds, which are set the previous summer. This characteristic is referred to as "flowering on old wood,” which relates to the second typical reason for failure to flower, pruning at the wrong time of the year. If you need to prune hydrangeas, you have a narrow window; cut them back after they flower but before the first of August. If a Hydrangea macrophylla is pruned between the fall and the following summer, it removes the buds which provide flowers along with the seemingly dead branches. About ten or so years ago Dr. Michael Dirr, professor of horticulture at the University of Georgia, was visiting a nursery in Minnesota when he saw a hydrangea loaded with blooms despite a cold winter having killed it back to the ground. This discovery has created a whole new wave of interest in hydrangeas and has precipitated perhaps the best thing to happen to the classic big-leaf hydrangeas—the introduction of re-blooming types that flower on new wood. These plants are not as fastidious about pruning times and even following the coldest winters will produce flowers. These re-blooming types are technically called remontant. ‘Endless Summer’ was the first widely marketed re-blooming type, and several others have since been introduced on the market. At the Dixon we have been impressed with ‘Dooley’ as a dependable bloomer with large flowers in pink or blue. Unlike the more common mophead flowers, ‘Twist ‘n Shout’ has flat-topped, lacecap blooms which remind me of a pinwheel when viewed from above. ‘Blushing Bride’ is a white-flowered plant that fades to pink and is not susceptible to color change based on soil type.
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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
a summer picnic with
laura park
and friends!
EVENT DESIGN GINNI JONES | PHOTOGRAPHY ANNABELLA CHARLES June 2021 • athomemms.com | 71
E N T E R TA TA IINNIINNGG
S T Y L I N G & S TO R Y G I N N I J O N E S
T H E D E T A I L S | WARDROBE PEARL BY LELA ROSE | DINNERWARE LAURA PARK GLASSWARE ANTHROPOLOGIE | FLATEWARE THE AVENUE
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With the unofficial start to summer, Memorial Day, behind us - it’s time to celebrate the season in the sun all summer long. It’s my favorite time of year. Nothing is better than enjoying a meal with friends and family during the day in the warm sunshine or for dinner on those crisp summer nights! June 2021 • athomemms.com | 73
E N T E R TA I N I N G
setting the table S e t t i n g t h e Ta b l e : T h i s m o n t h ’s t a b l e s c a p e was inspired by the bright and vibrant colors included in the abstract patterns designed b y L a u r a Pa r k . L u n c h w a s s e r v e d o n L a u r a Pa r k m e l a m i n e p l a t e s , s u p e r f u n & f e s t i v e f o r t h e s e a s o n ! Pa i r e d w i t h r a t t a n n a p k i n r i n g s and simple white napkins, the plates were d e f i n i t e l y t h e s t a r o f t h e s h o w. D e s s e r t w a s set picnic style in the front yard and Laura Pa r k ’s p a p e r c o c k t a i l p l a t e s a n d n a p k i n s w e r e perfect for cake! So many designs to choose from, but I picked a more pastel pattern to balance out all the color from the bright melamine plates. 74 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • June 2021
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E N T E R TA TA IINNIINNGG
T H E D E T A I L S | PASTRIES WHOLE FOODS | WARDROBE PEARL BY LELA ROSE | DINNERWARE LAURA PARK DESIGNS | GLASSWARE ANTHROPOLOGIA | RUG ELLE WOVEN
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E N T E R TA I N II N N GG
the style Pe r f e c t f o r s u m m e r a n d c a s u a l outdoor entertaining is the summer collection from PEARL BY LELA ROSE. From the fun gingham searsucker romper to the bright floral jumpsuit, all outfits are great for summer!
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E N T E R TA I N I N G
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LADY BIRD COCKTAIL PLATES, NAPKINS & DOG PILLOW LAURA PARK DESIGNS
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H E A LT H Y Y O U
Strengthening Your Family Connection STORY MICHELLE JOHNS
MA, LPC-MHSP (TEMP), NCC, 200 HR E-RTY, 500 HR RYT
every
year in May and June we celebrate mothers and fathers. Setting aside time to honor and thank moms and dads is important. Being a parent is a blessing and a gift; it’s an opportunity to continue the gift of life. For many people, however, these holidays bring on a complex mix of emotions. To those who are struggling to become parents, who have lost a child, who have lost a parent, who have had difficult childhood experiences, I want you to know that I see you, I hear you, I acknowledge you and your grief. I hope you find peace and hope. Last month I wrote on the powerful influence parents have on the lifetime development of their children. I encouraged readers to consider the legacy burdens and gifts their parents passed along to them, and those they have in turn passed along to their children. Many people struggle with tolerance for the opposition of burdens and gifts and with acknowledging and making space for the imperfections of their parents' parenting and their own. The thought of the imperfections can feel like a punch in the gut. I could have written this article solely about celebrating the gifts of parenting. After all, this is a Southern magazine with a Southern influence and readership. In the South, we know it’s best to focus only on the positive side of things. While that Southern sweetness is a gift to treasure, good parenting makes space for conversations both about things that work and things that don’t work. Tolerance is an important part of the work of healing the past while simultaneously celebrating it and creating a better parental connection in the future.
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In my work as a mental health counselor (TLPCMHSP), I see clients who struggle with identifying their adverse childhood experiences. They have a hard time naming their adversity as something that hurt their development and created challenges, and that continues to generate struggles in their relationships with their children, spouse, friends and work peers. Speaking about the ways their parents’ imperfections have shaped their current challenges feels like disrespect to them. I relate to and understand this, as I had to work through my own discomfort in this same regard. It’s important to note that acknowledging childhood parental challenges does not negate our love and appreciation for our parents and grandparents. However, it does create opportunities to relieve ourselves of legacy burdens and make a better way for our children and grandchildren. If we are to celebrate parenting and embrace the responsibility of nurturing and nourishing the development of another human being, we must be able to tolerate our children’s love and frustration toward our influence on the shaping of their life course. We must make space for conversation pertaining to their feelings, thoughts and rationale for their course of action and behaviors. The opportunity to have these conversations occurs throughout our life. I have three children, ages 32, 30 and 20. I have two grandchildren, ages two and one. My role as a parent did not cease when my children went to college or when they entered adulthood or got married. It continues to evolve and it transcends in my role as a grandparent. Thus, it has been immensely important to review my parenting
H E A LT H Y Y O U
beliefs, style and influence and make necessary adjustments. At times, it has been painful and the lump in my throat hard to digest, but nonetheless, it has strengthened my family relationships, which transcend all others. The key to strengthening and improving our family bonds lies in our willingness to tolerate the tough conversations with our children—those that address our mistakes as well as our successes. As parents, it’s our responsibility to seek these conversations and allow our children to fully express their feelings and thoughts. In extreme situations, it is helpful to have a third party help facilitate the conversations. There is hope and opportunity regardless of our stage of parenting. In fact, my 72-year-old father and I discuss the challenges and joys of my childhood on occasion. I have been relieved of hurt and celebrated success with him through the words “I am sorry” and “I love you.” Additionally, I have had the same sort of conversations with my children in the hopes of healing their childhood wounds and rejoicing in the positive achievements that have resulted in their prosperous adult lives.
**If your family has a history of trauma, please seek the help of a professional counselor to guide you through the journey of healing and connection.
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IN THE KITCHEN
Artichoke & Olive Gazpacho Refreshing, delicious, over the top—I can’t think of enough ways to describe how wonderful this gazpacho is! The combination of flavors dances on your tongue with each and every bite. Make this for your next dinner party and your guests will be dancing in their seats. Enjoy! RECIPE & PHOTO JIM NORTON
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IN THE KITCHEN
INGREDIENTS:
DIRECTIONS:
2 14.5-oz. cans petite diced tomatoes with
In a blender, purée about ½ a can of diced
green chilies
tomatoes with olive oil and ½ cup water.
¼ cup olive oil
Transfer to a large mixing bowl. Add all
15.5-oz. can cannellini beans, drained
the above ingredients except the feta and
½ red onion, chopped
parsley. Toss to combine. Transfer to a storage
12-oz. jar roasted red peppers, chopped
container with a lid and refrigerate overnight.
6-oz. jar pitted kalamata olives, chopped 12-oz. jar marinated artichoke hearts, chopped
TO S E RV E :
1 Tbsp. minced garlic
Ladle desired amount of gazpacho into
3 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
individual serving bowls. Top with crumbled
½ tsp. salt
feta and fresh chopped parsley.
½ tsp. pepper Crumbled feta cheese Fresh parsley thenortonrecipe.com Facebook @thenortonrecipe Instagram @thejimnorton
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June 2021 HO M E F E AT U R E Special Thanks Warehouse 67 warehouse67design.com Annabella Charles annabellacharles.com
DESIGN Special Thanks Kimberly Bacon Interiors kimberlybaconinteriors.com Ross Group Creative rossgroupcreative.com
ENTERTAINING Special Thanks Ginni Jones ginnijones1@gmail.com Annabella Charles annabellacharles.com Laura Park Designs lauraparkdesigns.com Pearl by Lela Rose pearl.nyc
GETAWAY Special Thanks Visit Corinth Corinth.net
IN THE GARDEN Special Thanks Dixon Gallery & Gardens dixon.org
IN THE KITCHEN Special Thanks Jim Norton thenortonrecipe.com
HEALTHY YOU Special Thanks Michelle Johns mjohns@transformingwellness.com
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78 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2020
