While I still love to celebrate my birthday for, well, the entire month, like any normal person, with dinners and wine with friends and trips and presents and too much cake, after a fun, fun, fun summer of lots of events and tons of guests and just the right amount of sun and salt and sand (because there’s never enough, is there?) I think what I’d like most for my birthday is to sit on my front porch.
I insisted the cake on Friday and present opening on Saturday also take place outside because even though it’s hard for presents to get better, they actually are even better with a sunset in the background and a perfect summer breeze.
These are the kinds of outdoor spaces that are made for summer memories.
So whether you’re catching up with friends or a good book, sipping coffee or cocktails, any time is a good time to savor summer on one of these fabulous patios.
Thanks so much for stopping by Design Chic today. We always love seeing you here!
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Speaking of fabulous celebrations, there are so many fun dates coming up on the The Secret to Southern Charm tour! We are heading to Palmetto Bluff on Tuesday for a talk on Wednesday and, August 2, if you’re in Sea Island, come celebrate with us! This is a free event.
Prime Day Deals start at 3PM. You don’t want to miss this sale!
Charm. That’s the word that comes to mind when considering this fabulous Atlanta home designed by the talented Meridy King. Incredible architectural details, eclectic style and a landscape plan to write home create a beautiful oasis amidst the city life.
The perfect mix of antique and modern, this is the kind of office that is full of inspiration–and perfect for meeting clients!
A round dining table is one of our favorite things. Especially in a square dining room, it is so chic and allows for conversation in a way that other shapes simply don’t.
Rustic touches are always welcome.
This room proves that you don’t have to pick a “style.” Traditional, laid-back furnishings pair perfectly with modern art and a rustic fireplace.
And, of course, accessories always put something great over the top!
It’s amazing how simple architectural details can add so much charm.
The outdoor living spaces perfectly mirror the interior of this fabulous home.
In the outdoors, as with interiors, it’s all about the little things! The details make this space so chic.
Just, wow. This is a photo made for Pinterest! And wonderful conversation with someone you love.
Lush and well planned yet totally unfussy, this is the kind of landscape architecture dreams are made of! Do you see those tiny stone steps into the water? Swooning! The dog looks almost as if he was planted there to perfect the scene!
Thanks so much to all of you for making Design Chic a part of your day. We love it when you stop by!
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If you’re planning your Summer vacation, make sure to grab a copy of THE SECRET TO SOUTHERN CHARM , one of Southern Living‘s best beach reads, to slip in your tote.
Good morning, chic friends! I leaving Atlanta today heading to beautiful Charleston for The Secret to Southern Charm signings… but I have had the most amazing time in Atlanta!
No matter where your heart lies, this fabulous home from Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles won’t disappoint!
Traditional elements with the right mix of modern…
Hints of glamour in all the right places…
And architectural details that accentuate at every turn…
This beautiful space is just the right kind of chic.
Steel doors and windows always make a stunning statement. And we just adore toning down a more formal room with a natural fiber rug.
Upholstered dining chairs feel so cozy and welcoming. They’re a family-friendly touch in a formal dining room.
The right shade of paint makes a paneled library still feel traditional but also freshened and bright.
A beautiful banquette is one of our favorite parts of a breakfast room — and such a good use of space!
Whimsical elements tie this space together perfectly.
A canopy bed creates instant impact. A settee on the end of a bed is comfy but can look stuffy. This casual alternative is the ideal touch.
We love a chaise, but it’s not always the right look. This chair and ottoman give the style — and the comfort — in a way that’s right for the space.
And, of course, every gorgeous home needs an amazing soaking tub. We think this one looks heavenly!
Thank you so much for visiting with us today. We always love getting to see you!
If you want to know a little more about my new novel, THE SECRET TO SOUTHERN CHARM (Simon & Schuster, April 3, 2018) take a peek at the video below! (It’s only like 60 seconds. No major commitments here!)
May 1: Reynolds Plantation Linger Longer Cultural Series, Lake Club, 1000 Vista Dr., Greensboro, GA 30624, contact Marie Garrison, Cultural Arts Director, [email protected], 5:00 pm
May 2: Charleston, SC UNC Alumni Event
May 5: Run for the Roses: Kentucky Derby Party, Elizabethan Gardens, 1411 National Park Dr, Manteo, NC 27954, ticketed event; The classic event of the genteel south comes to The Elizabethan Gardens. Dress in style and enjoy the revels and embellishments of the race at this fundraising extravaganza that benefits three Outer Bank non-profits: The Elizabethan Gardens, Beach Food Pantry and Dare Education Foundation. Sponsored by Outer Banks Blue Realty. Expect a traditional southern affair with mint juleps, live and silent auctions, sumptuous derby pie, a hat contest and an assortment of live music, games and entertainment as you enjoy the beautiful gardens and anticipate the big race to be broadcast live.; Contact Jamie Anderson at Downtown Books, 252-473-1056, [email protected]; 4:00 pm, open to the public
May 10: Children’s Cancer Partners Fundraiser, Cornelius Yacht Club
May 21: Sassee Reads Books Club Chat
June 13: Raleigh, NC Read & Go program, Tour of Salisbury, NC based on Lies and Other Acts of Love, Raleigh Parks & Rec,(919)996-4723
June 20: Luncheon with Mary Alice Monroe benefiting Beaufort Historical Society in Beaufort, NC; luncheon at Coral Bay Club; ticketed event, Contact is Patricia Suggs, [email protected]; 252-728-5225; open to the public
July 11: Coral Bay Club Book Club, Atlantic Beach, NC, 12 pm
July 17: Ladies Day Luncheon at Dunes Club, Atlantic Beach, NC, 12 pm, private
July 25: Country Club of the Crystal Coast Author Dinner, Pine Knoll Shores, NC, 5 pm
DON’T FORGET, THE SECRET TO SOUTHERN CHARM IS AVAILABLE BY CALLING YOUR LOCAL BOOKSTORE, ANY OF THE FABULOUS BOOKSTORES ABOVE OR AT INDIEBOUND, AMAZON, BARNES & NOBLE OR WHEREVER BOOKS ARE SOLD!
Good morning from the road, amazing readers! We hope you are having a great day. We are so excited to be heading to High Point Market this Saturday. I’ll be at the Codarus showroom from 2-4 signing The Secret to Southern Charm, so if you’re at the market, come say hi! Codarus is located in IFHC H220.
We have lots of other fun events coming up (more listed below and full tour schedule here), including an amazing event at the gorgeous Huff Harrington in Atlanta on April 30 from 1-3.
Owners and designers extraordinaire Ann Huff and Meg Harrington will be presenting on their favorite entertaining and decor ideas, I’ll be chatting and signing The Secret to Southern Charm and there will be plenty of fun sips and snacks. So come see us!
Their 1930s Brookhaven cottage is the ultimate downsize, a gorgeous compilation of all the things the couple loved and just the right size for empty nesters.
We love the homey, cottage feel of this stunning home.
It absolutely oozes with charm–and elements of everything that Francophile Meg loves!
While Ann and Meg’s Huff Harrington home away from home is filled with so many fabulous things, we think we love their eye for art best of all!
The work they feature is always swoon-worthy and their fine art is a real hallmark of their style and shop.
Ann, Meg and I would all love to see you at gorgeous Huff Harrington April 30!
Thanks so much for stopping by Design Chic today. We always love it when you do!
DON’T FORGET, THE SECRET TO SOUTHERN CHARM IS AVAILABLE FROM YOUR LOCAL BOOKSTORE, ANY OF THE FABULOUS BOOKSTORES ABOVE OR AT INDIEBOUND, AMAZON, BARNES & NOBLE OR WHEREVER BOOKS ARE SOLD!
The Secret to Southern Charm Tour!
April 13: Pfeiffer University Friends of the Library Book and Author Luncheon, Pfeiffer University, Highway 52 North, Misenheimer, N.C. 28109, hosted by Pfeiffer University Friends of the Library, tickets are $30.00 for Friends members and $40 for nonmembers; Tickets will be available on the University’s website in mid-January. They will also be available by calling the Advancement Office at 704-463-3034, event from 11:00 am-1:15 pm, open to the public
April 14: Signing at High Point Furniture Market, High Point, NC, Codarus Showroom, IHFC H220, 2-4 pm
April 16: The Country Bookshop, 140 NW Broad Street, Southern Pines, NC 28387, 5:00 pm, free and open to the public
April 17: SC Entertainment Television talk in Kinston, NC, private
April 17: Sips and Sweets, Community Council for the Arts, 100 N. Queen St., Kinston, NC, 100% of book purchase price will be donated to CCA, to reserve a copy or purchase a copy to pick up at a later date, call (252) 527-2517, free and open to the public
April 19: Eastport-Annapolis Neck Community Library,269 Hillsmere Dr., Annapolis, MD 21403, event contact is Amanda Spino, 410-222-1770, [email protected], 6:30 pm, free and open to the public
Apr. 20: Launch of Literary Luncheon series at The Annapolis Bookstore, 53 Maryland Ave, Annapolis, MD 21401, Contact is Mary Owen, 410-280-2339, [email protected]
April 21: Bethany Beach Books, 99 Garfield Parkway, Bethany Beach, DE 19967, Time: 11:00AM-1:00PM
April 22: Reading at ROOT, Manasquan, NJ, please register through BookTowne, Contact is Maribeth Pelly, [email protected], 732-722-7255, 3:00 pm, free and open to the public
April 23: Westerville Public Library, 126 S. State St., Westerville, OH 43081, free but registration required at 341-282-9232; 7:00 pm, open to the public
April 26: “Books and Bites,” Macon County Library, 149 Siler Farm Rd, Franklin, North Carolina 28734, Light refreshments will be provided, 12 pm, free and open to the public
April 30: The Secret to Southern Charm: Kristy’s tips for living a beautiful life, inspired by Southern interior design and entertaining; Huff Harrington Home Store, 3872 Roswell Road NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30342, refreshments provided; Contacts are Meg Harrington and Ann Huff: [email protected], 404-467-0311 , 1:00-3:00 pm, free and open to the public
May 1: Reynolds Plantation Linger Longer Cultural Series, Lake Club, 1000 Vista Dr., Greensboro, GA 30624, contact Marie Garrison, Cultural Arts Director, [email protected], 5:00 pm
May 2: Charleston, SC UNC Alumni Event
May 5: Run for the Roses: Kentucky Derby Party, Elizabethan Gardens, 1411 National Park Dr, Manteo, NC 27954, ticketed event; The classic event of the genteel south comes to The Elizabethan Gardens. Dress in style and enjoy the revels and embellishments of the race at this fundraising extravaganza that benefits three Outer Bank non-profits: The Elizabethan Gardens, Beach Food Pantry and Dare Education Foundation. Sponsored by Outer Banks Blue Realty. Expect a traditional southern affair with mint juleps, live and silent auctions, sumptuous derby pie, a hat contest and an assortment of live music, games and entertainment as you enjoy the beautiful gardens and anticipate the big race to be broadcast live.; Contact Jamie Anderson at Downtown Books, 252-473-1056, [email protected]; 4:00 pm, open to the public
We didn’t think the Blue Ridge mountains could get any more gorgeous, but it has happened. Atlanta architect D. Stanley Dixon and interior designer Heather Dewberry have made even more magic in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. We know. We’re really excited too! From the wood elements to the color palette it’s utter perfection at every turn. We hope you enjoy as much as we do!
Thanks so much for making Design Chic a part of your day. We always love seeing you here!
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My latest novel, THE SECRET TO SOUTHERN CHARM, releases on April 3, right in the thick of Spring Break! And, Southern Living just named it one of its “Best Spring Break Reads.” Hooray! Now is the perfect time to preorder!
Where some homes are made to stand out, others beg to fit in, to take a backseat to let the beauty around them take center stage.
This Costa Rican gem featured in Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles is one of those homes, which seems to serve the purpose of accentuating the beauty around it.
Featuring limewashed cabinets and plenty of fresh fruit, this is the perfect vacation kitchen for fueling up before heading outside for the day.
An earth-toned palette seems to blend seamlessly with the outdoors beyond the windows.
We think the best vacation home are those that are relaxing and calming retreats.
Simple, uncluttered accents and coastal colors lend that beach oasis feel.
Bamboo, rope and natural objects like coral are elegantly coastal.
Natural wood finishes and white washed walls lend an organic feel that captures the essence of Costa Rica.
Nautical stripes and shades of blue lend a little fun to this gathering spot.
This charming take on a bunk room lends sleeping quarters for plenty of guests!
Of course, the best part of any beach oasis is the outdoor space. The natural stone is absolutely stunning.
A calming pool with plenty of chic lounging space adds to the outdoor experience.
No matter how beautiful the pool, it’s hard to beat the beauty of the Costa Rican water.
Despite the fabulous interiors of this home, we have to say that, with this right outside the door, we would want to spend all of our time right on this beach, surrounded by the splendor of nature.
We love finding new places we love, and, as you probably gathered from our post yesterday, we absolutely loved Cashiers, NC!
We stayed in a charming mountain cabin that was one of the highlights of the trip. Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles called this home “Cashiers Cool,” and we think that’s the perfect description!
This house embodies that enviable rustic luxury that provides the best of all possible design worlds.
A clean, sleek, streamlined heart of the home sets the tone for a beautiful escape.
Creating a mountain retreat is much like creating a coastal retreat in that, when it comes to adding rustic charm, less is more. The wooden base of this table is the perfect mountainous touch in the breakfast room.
Window in front of the vanity? No problem! Just cover it with a mirror. We adore this idea!
Beams are the perfect mountainous touch in this stunning master bath–and the hardware steals the show in these builtins.
Textures and fabrics combine in this room to make it feel luxe, layered and cozy.
Rich hues and bold stripes combine for making the perfect bunk room. This one makes the most of a sloped ceiling.
A mix of light and dark colors makes this room feel warm and cozy but still light enough to be clean and refreshing.
The best part of Cashiers? Why the view, of course! It’s the thing that, no doubt, keeps people coming back again and again. Do you love this Cashiers home as much as we do? Wishing you a wonderful day!
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I am so honored that Slightly South of Simple is in the July issue of Southern Living alongside the lovely, talented Mary Alice Monroe’s Beach House for Rent:
If you haven’t picked up your copy of Slightly South of Simple yet, take advantage of Barnes & Noble’s Buy 2, Get 1 Free offer! It’s the perfect time to stock up on summer reading!
As the holiday celebrations begin to take center stage, we hope you can steal away for a moment to take a peek at this gorgeous Atlanta condominium. It’s a peaceful, calming home–with an incredible view–that just might lend you a moment of serenity as you rush around making your final preparations. Melanie Turner Interiors created a space that truly feels like a zen retreat, the perfect place to start a stress-free 2017!
