Innholdsfortegnelse for January - February 2009 i Southern Lady

Don’t you just love the feeling that comes with the clean slate of a new year? We have a blank calendar and an empty agenda, the promise of new stories and a million different ideas on how to fill the pages. I usually have a sewing project in mind or new recipes to try. These chilly winter days are tailor made for curling up with a cup of tea, Southern Lady in hand, and making plans for the months ahead. These days are also made for chocolate— but then again, what day isn’t? If you love that rich and creamy decadence as much as we do, then this issue of Southern Lady is especially for you. Beginning with the heart-shaped cheesecake on the cover, you will discover enough chocolatey goodness…

You're Invited It’s true that time flies when you’re having fun. The past 10 years have positively soared by, and here we are celebrating our 10th anniversary! Since our first issue hit the newsstands in 1999, we have focused on all things beautiful, gracious, and Southern, striving to bring our pages to life with breathtaking photography and lyrical words. We’ve planned lots of fun features leading up to our commemorative anniversary issue this fall. We’ll take a look back at these 10 terrific years and reminisce with our readers about all the people, places, and pretties we’ve showcased on our pages. If you love reading Southern Lady as much as we love putting it together, please write to us and tell us about your favorite features and memories.…

Small Reiner Vase, $19.95, Mini Flore Frame, $14.95, Small Eternity Frame, $14.95; Z Gallerie, 800-908-6748; zgallerie.com. Four Calling Birds Footed Dish, $40 for set of four; Rosanna, 877-343-3779; rosannainc.com. Leather-trim Cable-knit Gloves in Cocoon, $39; Banana Republic, 888-277-8953; bananarepublic.com. Petite Chandelier Lamp in Clear, $99.95; Victorian Trading Co., 800-800-6647; victoriantrading.com. Medallion Clock, $125; Waterford, 800-995-1550; waterford.com. Her Words Composition Books, $5.95 each; Compendium Inc., 800-914-3327; live-inspired.com. Raspberry Fizz Ink Pen, $19; Vera Bradley, 888-855-8372; verabradley.com.…

Like a fresh strawberry double-dipped in rich, dreamy chocolate, this novel by British author Joanne Harris is filled with juicy and luscious details about the lives of a candy-maker mother and daughter. Floating in on a February breeze, Vianne and Anouk Rocher arrive in the French town of Lansquenet-sous-Tannes in the midst of Carnival, and the whispering begins: Who are they? Where are they from? Why are they here? When the Rochers open a fancy chocolaterie—at the beginning of Lent no less—more questions arise, as does the disapproval of the local priest. Religious piety and decadent indulgence collide, and soon, with Vianne’s announcement of plans for an Easter Chocolate Festival, the townsfolk are forced to choose sides. Day by day, Vianne produces more treats, and bite by bite, her confections…

kaleidoscope style Inspired by the colors in the china, varying solid shades in table linens and stemware bring a rainbow of loveliness to the table. Add an artistic flower arrangement to pull the look together for a bold tableau with sophistication and panache. TABLECLOTH Pure Couleur tablecloth in Peony (uncoated) by Le Jacquard Français, $199 for 59- x 86-inch; Belles Choses, 770- 435-8384; belleschoses.com. NAPKIN Diamond Jacquard napkin in Fiesta, $22.50 each; Deborah Rhodes, 203-333-8998; deborahrhodes.com. NAPKIN RING Baroque Pearl Oval Cluster, $18 each; Deborah Rhodes, 203-333-8998; deborahrhodes.com. subtle signs Create a more refined tablescape by using a limited color palette of warm, neutral hues that highlight the china. Search out napkins and place mats with subtle patterns and textures—they’ll provide contrast and create depth and interest, which are key…

Designer Barbara Barry has described her style as “evocative of twin sets and pearls,” so it’s no wonder that her lovely china pattern featuring a parade of petite chairs offers the perfect inspiration for this fabulously feminine setting. Reminiscent of Parisian parlor décor, the tiny seats lend beaucoups of charm to china rendered in a classic black-and-white color scheme. A shimmering taupe tablecloth furnishes the first layer of this fetching tablescape. In lieu of place mats, drape botanical print napkins at an angle, allowing the points to spill over the table’s edge. Add delicately etched crystal and heirloom sterling silver for the all-important sparkle and shine. Between the dinner and salad plates, slip in a frothy, ruffled napkin of gossamer pink silk, its color pulled from the print and echoed…

ARKANSAS • GEORGIA • FLORIDA Over the years, we’ve taken you on journeys through many of the South’s finest residences. From Texas’s Grand Mansion to Virginia’s Executive Estate, we’ve given you an inside look at the region’s most historic halls, lavish dining rooms, and exquisite bedrooms. Now, the tour continues. Join us for a glimpse of the governors’ residences in Arkansas, Florida, and Georgia.…

The current Mansion has been home to Georgia’s governors only since 1968. The first was actually located in Milledgeville, one-time home of the state capital. In 1868, the state capital was moved to Atlanta, where a second mansion was constructed. It was the main residence until 1923 when the state demolished it and acquired an estate in which 11 governors would reside before it was eventually razed in 1968. Built on 18 acres in northeast Atlanta, Georgia’s Governor’s Mansion covers 24,000 square feet. The Greek Revival-style home features a total of 30 rooms, all with furnishings from the federal period. A favorite room in the Mansion, especially for the governors, is the library. The Executive Estate’s library features a remarkable collection of books by Georgia authors such as Joel Chandler…

Here's the How To: A fabulously revamped kitchen is just minutes away with our quick and easy window redo. Measure your window, then choose a pair of chic and vibrantly hued dish towels to fit the space. Details like ruffled trim just add to the charm. Using clip-on rings, left plain or spray-painted to coordinate with your kitchen color scheme, attach towels at equally spaced intervals, and slip onto a tension rod. Slide the rod in place, then stand back and admire your instantly updated kitchen. inner circle Hanging curtains is a cinch, thanks to these clip-on rings. Simply purchase the rings at a hardware or fabric store, and spray-paint to match your décor. curtain call No time to sew? No problem! Visit your favorite kitchen or home-furnishings store for…

Amazingly, Sandy Kimura begins her murals with a brush stroke. “It’s rare that I draw anything out ahead of time,” she admits. “As a proposal to my client, I’ll do a design sketch on paper of what I’m going to do, but once I have that idea, I just start painting on the wall.” Such confidence comes from a lifetime of artistry. “I started drawing when I was about 3 years old,” says Sandy, whose father was a draftsman and whose mother was an artist. “My mom told me I used to draw little pictures on the wall behind the door.” Her love of painting also began at an early age. “A lot of kids were playing with toys,” says the artist. “My dad built us an easel so we…

Well-designed interiors start with visions of delicious fabrics, exquisite antiques, original art, fine furniture, and if you’re Anita Rankin, homeowners kicking off their shoes and fully enjoying every inch of their redesigned home. “It’s my responsibility to help clients create the house or the room that they want to live in,” says Anita. And by “live,” she truly means live. The idea is no more evident than in Anita’s own home in Fairhope, Alabama, where she thinks nothing of walking over the antique rugs on her bathroom floor, stacking dishes in a grand armoire, and serving meals in her “formal” dining room for ordinary occasions. “I live all over it,” says the 30-year veteran designer, who simply doesn’t believe in rooms or furnishings that aren’t enjoyed everyday and by everyone.…

Love me tender, love me sweet, never let me go... BITTERSWEET RASPBERRY TART Makes 1 (9-inch) tart Crust: 3 (3-ounce) bars semisweet chocolate (62% cacao), finely chopped 1/2 cup butter 3/4 cup sugar 3 large eggs, lightly beaten 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour Filling: 2 cups finely chopped bittersweet chocolate (70% cacao) 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream 1/4 cup seedless raspberry preserves 1 tablespoon raspberry-flavored liqueur Garnish: fresh raspberries and Raspberry Crème (recipe follows) 1. Preheat oven to 350°. Spray a 9-inch round tart pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside. 2. To prepare crust: In a medium bowl, combine semisweet chocolate and butter. Microwave on High in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until chocolate is melted and smooth (about 11/2 minutes total). Add sugar, eggs, and flour, whisking to combine.…

Curried Carrot Soup Makes 2 servings 2 tablespoons butter 1/2 cup chopped onion 1 tablespoon minced garlic 2 cups grated carrot 1/2 cup chopped celery 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth 1/2 cup Riesling wine 1 teaspoon curry powder 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream 1 teaspoon sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper Garnish: carrot curls 1. In a medium saucepan, heat butter over medium heat until melted. Add onion and garlic; cook for 4 minutes, stirring frequently. Add carrot and celery; cook for 4 minutes, stirring frequently. Add chicken broth, wine, and curry powder. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to mediumlow, and simmer for 30 minutes. Remove from heat and cool slightly. 2. In the container of a blender, puree carrot mixture until smooth. Return puree to…

1. CAPITOL BOOK & NEWS Everyone from Cassandra King and Pat Conroy to Rick Bragg and our own Phyllis Hoffman has popped in for book signings. We could have spent hours happily ensconced in the Southern fiction section alone. 1140 East Fairview Avenue; 334-265-1473. 2. M. BAGWELL Artist Mandy Bagwell’s store offers her signature ceramic wares and gift items in fun and funky surroundings. We found the cutest baby feeding sets for our grandchildren and mix-and-match accent plates for ourselves. 1038 East Fairview Avenue; 334-356-4545. 3. STONEHENGE GALLERY The works of more than 50 artists from around the Southeast hang in this noted gallery. We especially loved Lorrie Lane’s nature-themed still-life paintings and Karen Tarlton’s vibrant landscapes. 1041 East Fairview Avenue; 334-262-8256. 4. SARAH HOWARD STONE The lovely and gracious…

The landscape may be sleeping, but our region is alive with activity. Brighten up winter with an event near you. ALABAMA ANNUAL ROSE PRUNING MOBILE—FEBRUARY 11, 2009 Come learn how to care for roses in your own yard, then join members of the Mobile Rose Society as they prune more than 2,000 roses in the award-winning Bellingrath Rose Garden. 800-247-8420; bellingrath.org FLORIDA ROMANTIC READINGS TALLAHASSEE—FEBRUARY 14, 2009 Deemed “the house that rhymes,” the historic Knott House appropriately celebrates Valentine’s Day with poetry readings, as well as music, tours, and refreshments. 850-922-2459; flheritage.com/museum KENTUCKY MID-WINTER FEASTE BARDSTOWN—JANUARY 9-11, 2009 The Bardstown Community Theatre presents a madrigal dinner complete with pageantry, drama, music, dancing, costumes, and a dinner fit for medieval royalty. 800-638-4877; visitbardstown.com LOUISIANA CAMELLIAS IN THE COUNTRY ST. FRANCISVILLE—FEBRUARY 6-7,…

To purchase items featured in our articles, please refer to the information below. If an item is not listed, it is privately owned and not available for purchase. To contact the manufacturers and retail stores referenced below, see DIRECTORY OF COMPANIES. COVER “Ulander” in Ruby china by Wedgwood and white lacy-edge napkins; Bromberg’s. CONTENTS PAGE 7: “Ulander” in Ruby china by Wedgwood; Bromberg’s. ENTERTAINING TOUCHES PAGE 34: Pitchers; At Home Furnishings. Floral design; Flower Stems. MIX AND MATCH: COLOR WONDERFUL PAGES 36-38: Floral Design; Flower Stems. SEASONAL SETTINGS: ROSES & RUFFLES PAGES 40-43: “Musical Chairs” by Barbara Barry for Wedgwood; Bloomingdale’s. Pure Couleur tablecloth in Coffee by Le Jacquard Français; Belles Choses. Floral print napkin; World Market. Lettuce edge silk organza napkin in Candy Pink; Kim Seybert. Glass cream &…

You're Invited It’s true that time flies when you’re having fun. The past 10 years have positively soared by, and here we are celebrating our 10th anniversary! Since our first issue hit the newsstands in 1999, we have focused on all things beautiful, gracious, and Southern, striving to bring our pages to life with breathtaking photography and lyrical words. We’ve planned lots of fun features leading up to our commemorative anniversary issue this fall. We’ll take a look back at these 10 terrific years and reminisce with our readers about all the people, places, and pretties we’ve showcased on our pages. If you love reading Southern Lady as much as we love putting it together, please write to us and tell us about your favorite features and memories.…

“ This morning we in Vermont awoke to the bare architecture of trees, shrubs, and plants garbed in winter white, with a light snow continuing to fall. Immediately my mind turned to holiday festivities. The November/December 2008 Southern Lady articles “Night to Remember” and “Rise and Shine” have given me my menu, along with lovely ideas for tablescapes and decorations. Since I’m a transplanted Southerner, I savor the bimonthly feast for eyes and spirit in Southern Lady. May loveliness abound! ” Georgia Herod Washington, Vermont Fabulous Find I’m writing to say how much I enjoy Southern Lady. I have shared issues with friends, and we love the recipes and the beautiful presentation of all the articles. Our home is in Indiana, which has its own tried-and-true customs and recipes. However,…

Small Reiner Vase, $19.95, Mini Flore Frame, $14.95, Small Eternity Frame, $14.95; Z Gallerie, 800-908-6748; zgallerie.com. Four Calling Birds Footed Dish, $40 for set of four; Rosanna, 877-343-3779; rosannainc.com. Leather-trim Cable-knit Gloves in Cocoon, $39; Banana Republic, 888-277-8953; bananarepublic.com. Petite Chandelier Lamp in Clear, $99.95; Victorian Trading Co., 800-800-6647; victoriantrading.com. Medallion Clock, $125; Waterford, 800-995-1550; waterford.com. Her Words Composition Books, $5.95 each; Compendium Inc., 800-914-3327; live-inspired.com. Raspberry Fizz Ink Pen, $19; Vera Bradley, 888-855-8372; verabradley.com.…

When a little girl is tall enough to peer over the top of her mother’s vanity, she is mesmerized by a collection of beautiful bottles. Her favorite, a pirouetting ballerina, is tucked among a variety of exquisite glass vials, each holding an enchanting scent. Since ancient times, perfume has played an important role in every culture. When glass perfume bottles were first introduced, they adorned only the wealthiest of homes, but mass appeal soon led to graceful carafes for all levels of society. Early perfume bottles often took the shape of animals, shells, and fruits. With the arrival of the art nouveau movement, designs featured flowing curves with floral motifs. In 1906, perfumer François Coty asked glass designer René Lalique to create elegant bottles for his fragrances. Soon fashion designers…

Lori Young is fascinated by things that some take for granted—butterflies, honeybees, hummingbirds, and even the humble tomato. As an artist, she delights in their details and vibrant colors. But as a former gift shop owner, Lori discovered an unexpected but equally compelling muse: tourists and homesick Southerners. Customers wanted “something Louisiana” to commemorate their visit—a keepsake, not a trinket, something to showcase the flavor of the South. “I just took it and ran with it,” Lori says in her endearing drawl. After weeks of exploring and experimenting with techniques, she created her Louisiana Series. The paintings feature her lively watercolor renderings of state icons like iris, magnolia, and crawfish. These images, however, are more than mere watercolors. From the start, Lori wanted to fuse her love of collages with…

By Joanne Harris Published by Black Swan Like a fresh strawberry double-dipped in rich, dreamy chocolate, this novel by British author Joanne Harris is filled with juicy and luscious details about the lives of a candy-maker mother and daughter. Floating in on a February breeze, Vianne and Anouk Rocher arrive in the French town of Lansquenet-sous-Tannes in the midst of Carnival, and the whispering begins: Who are they? Where are they from? Why are they here? When the Rochers open a fancy chocolaterie—at the beginning of Lent no less—more questions arise, as does the disapproval of the local priest. Religious piety and decadent indulgence collide, and soon, with Vianne’s announcement of plans for an Easter Chocolate Festival, the townsfolk are forced to choose sides. Day by day, Vianne produces more…

I am often asked about the availability of flowers, especially near Valentine’s Day when bouquets of favorite blooms are so important. The commercial market, with its global resources, allows florists to secure April, May, and June blooms all year long. Not only that, but the quality of these flowers is sometimes higher when they are not yet in season in your garden. For example, because the spring-blooming tulip does not ship well in warm weather, it is best purchased commercially in the cold, winter months. Other good examples of such blooms are narcissus and amaryllis, either of which would be a lovely and cheerful choice for brightening up a room in winter. The next time you order flowers, think beyond what’s blooming outside, and ask what’s “in-season” commercially. You can…

kaleidoscope style Inspired by the colors in the china, varying solid shades in table linens and stemware bring a rainbow of loveliness to the table. Add an artistic flower arrangement to pull the look together for a bold tableau with sophistication and panache. TABLECLOTH Pure Couleur tablecloth in Peony (uncoated) by Le Jacquard Français, $199 for 59- x 86-inch; Belles Choses, 770- 435-8384; belleschoses.com. NAPKIN Diamond Jacquard napkin in Fiesta, $22.50 each; Deborah Rhodes, 203-333-8998; deborahrhodes.com. NAPKIN RING Baroque Pearl Oval Cluster, $18 each; Deborah Rhodes, 203-333-8998; deborahrhodes.com. subtle signs Create a more refined tablescape by using a limited color palette of warm, neutral hues that highlight the china. Search out napkins and place mats with subtle patterns and textures—they’ll provide contrast and create depth and interest, which are key…

One of the most wonderful things about our magazine is the diversity of our staff. Though we all work toward the common goal of bringing the best to our readers, each person contributes unique perspectives and special talents to the process. These different styles and influences keep the pages fun and fresh for you, our readers. Tablescape designs with an Asian influence have us all aflutter these days, and we have two staff members to thank for it. Style Director Yukie McLean visits her native Japan several times a year, always bringing back creative inspiration and a bag full of goodies. Editor Andrea Fanning spent part of her summer teaching on the coast of China, where she had an opportunity to become immersed in the culture. She returned with a…

ARKANSAS • GEORGIA • FLORIDA Over the years, we’ve taken you on journeys through many of the South’s finest residences. From Texas’s Grand Mansion to Virginia’s Executive Estate, we’ve given you an inside look at the region’s most historic halls, lavish dining rooms, and exquisite bedrooms. Now, the tour continues. Join us for a glimpse of the governors’ residences in Arkansas, Florida, and Georgia.…

The current Mansion has been home to Georgia’s governors only since 1968. The first was actually located in Milledgeville, one-time home of the state capital. In 1868, the state capital was moved to Atlanta, where a second mansion was constructed. It was the main residence until 1923 when the state demolished it and acquired an estate in which 11 governors would reside before it was eventually razed in 1968. Built on 18 acres in northeast Atlanta, Georgia’s Governor’s Mansion covers 24,000 square feet. The Greek Revival-style home features a total of 30 rooms, all with furnishings from the federal period. A favorite room in the Mansion, especially for the governors, is the library. The Executive Estate’s library features a remarkable collection of books by Georgia authors such as Joel Chandler…

“Other things are just food. But chocolate’s chocolate.” —Patrick Skene Catling From brownies and bonbons to mousse and molten cakes—no matter what form chocolate takes, it has a luscious way of recalling sweet memories of romance and revelry, of comfort and celebration. This delicacy has been cherished for more than centuries. Historical record shows that the Maya of Central America held chocolate in highest esteem, bestowing it on their gods in extravagant religious celebrations. Likewise, Spanish monks were said to have treasured a secret recipe for producing chocolate, offering it only to kings, queens, and other nobles. When Spanish princess Maria Theresa married Louis XIV in 1660, she brought along heavy trunks full of cacao beans, introducing them to the French court. The story goes that Maria Theresa could be…

Amazingly, Sandy Kimura begins her murals with a brush stroke. “It’s rare that I draw anything out ahead of time,” she admits. “As a proposal to my client, I’ll do a design sketch on paper of what I’m going to do, but once I have that idea, I just start painting on the wall.” Such confidence comes from a lifetime of artistry. “I started drawing when I was about 3 years old,” says Sandy, whose father was a draftsman and whose mother was an artist. “My mom told me I used to draw little pictures on the wall behind the door.” Her love of painting also began at an early age. “A lot of kids were playing with toys,” says the artist. “My dad built us an easel so we…

Chilly nights call for the culinary comfort of delicious and nourishing one-dish meals. Chicken Pot Pie Makes 10 to 12 servings 4 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken breast halves 10 tablespoons butter, divided 6 small red potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 3 large carrots, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 1 cup pearl onions 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper 1 teaspoon minced garlic 21/4 teaspoons salt, divided 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided 1 cup frozen green peas 3/4 cup all-purpose flour 3 cups chicken broth 1 cup heavy whipping cream 1 (15-ounce) box refrigerated pie crusts 1 large egg, lightly beaten 1. In a Dutch oven, combine chicken with enough water to cover. Bring to a boil over high heat; reduce heat, and simmer,…

Love me tender, love me sweet, never let me go... BITTERSWEET RASPBERRY TART Makes 1 (9-inch) tart Crust: 3 (3-ounce) bars semisweet chocolate (62% cacao), finely chopped 1/2 cup butter 3/4 cup sugar 3 large eggs, lightly beaten 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour Filling: 2 cups finely chopped bittersweet chocolate (70% cacao) 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream 1/4 cup seedless raspberry preserves 1 tablespoon raspberry-flavored liqueur Garnish: fresh raspberries and Raspberry Crème (recipe follows) 1. Preheat oven to 350°. Spray a 9-inch round tart pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside. 2. To prepare crust: In a medium bowl, combine semisweet chocolate and butter. Microwave on High in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until chocolate is melted and smooth (about 11/2 minutes total). Add sugar, eggs, and flour, whisking to combine.…

“I was born into a chocolate-loving family,” writes baking journalist Lisa Yockelson in her newest cookbook, ChocolateChocolate. Not only that, but as early as age 7, the budding baker delighted in serving up cookies and double- or triple-layer chocolate cakes to her mother’s friends and neighbors. Those early-on taste testings and further study of her family’s favorite flavor inspired Lisa’s lifelong devotion to baking with chocolate. As much a life’s passion as a life’s work, ChocolateChocolate artfully balances Lisa’s own two-sided fascination with the ingredient: chocolate temptation and cocoa mastery. The book’s gorgeous pictures, mouthwatering recipes, and indepth data bring both sides to life. But what truly unifies the effort is a desire “to simply rejoice in what is surely the most luxurious of all flavors.” After all, Lisa believes…

Weekend Delivers Demonstrations, a Gala Dinner, Shopping Tour, and More…

“Come with me, and you’ll be in a world of pure imagination,” crooned Gene Wilder as the ultimate chocolate aficionado Willy Wonka. These lyrics immediately come to mind as you step through the door of Crave Chocolatier just outside Birmingham, Alabama. You are greeted with an extravagance of chocolatey goodness that sends your sweet tooth into overdrive. Chocolate-dipped strawberries, ooey-gooey caramels, European-inspired barks, sugarcoated toffee almonds, and truffles the size of golf balls line cases and shelves in this incredible sweets emporium. Whatever your fancy—milk, dark, or creamy white chocolate—Crave’s unparalleled inventory will both tempt and please you. Rest assured there is neither a wrong choice nor a limit on just how much yumminess you can take home. Owner Glyn Denton gave up life on the corporate fast track to…

Visit southernladymagazine.com/links to order FREE information from our advertisers and to link directly to their Web sites. OR, CLIP OUT THIS PAGE, check the advertisers from whom you would like to receive FREE information, then fill in your name and address and mail to: Southern Lady • P.O. Box 413050 • Naples, FL34101-3050 100 BOUTIQUE BUSINESSES & SERVICES SEND ALL FROM CATEGORY 1 INITIAL OUTFITTERS Personalized boutique-like jewelry and gifts through home parties. Earn free jewelry as a party hostess. Earn income as a ground-floor consultant! 2 JUBILATIONS, INC. Sixty flavors of cheesecakes made from real butter, natural vanilla, Philadelphia Cream Cheese, and hand-cracked fresh eggs. No preservatives. Mail Order. Fund Raising. Food Service. 3 KITCHENS ON THE SQUARE Gadgets, gifts, and tabletop items. Cooking and entertaining items for every…

Don’t you just love the feeling that comes with the clean slate of a new year? We have a blank calendar and an empty agenda, the promise of new stories and a million different ideas on how to fill the pages. I usually have a sewing project in mind or new recipes to try. These chilly winter days are tailor made for curling up with a cup of tea, Southern Lady in hand, and making plans for the months ahead. These days are also made for chocolate— but then again, what day isn’t? If you love that rich and creamy decadence as much as we do, then this issue of Southern Lady is especially for you. Beginning with the heart-shaped cheesecake on the cover, you will discover enough chocolatey goodness…

“ This morning we in Vermont awoke to the bare architecture of trees, shrubs, and plants garbed in winter white, with a light snow continuing to fall. Immediately my mind turned to holiday festivities. The November/December 2008 Southern Lady articles “Night to Remember” and “Rise and Shine” have given me my menu, along with lovely ideas for tablescapes and decorations. Since I’m a transplanted Southerner, I savor the bimonthly feast for eyes and spirit in Southern Lady. May loveliness abound! ” Georgia Herod Washington, Vermont Fabulous Find I’m writing to say how much I enjoy Southern Lady. I have shared issues with friends, and we love the recipes and the beautiful presentation of all the articles. Our home is in Indiana, which has its own tried-and-true customs and recipes. However,…

When a little girl is tall enough to peer over the top of her mother’s vanity, she is mesmerized by a collection of beautiful bottles. Her favorite, a pirouetting ballerina, is tucked among a variety of exquisite glass vials, each holding an enchanting scent. Since ancient times, perfume has played an important role in every culture. When glass perfume bottles were first introduced, they adorned only the wealthiest of homes, but mass appeal soon led to graceful carafes for all levels of society. Early perfume bottles often took the shape of animals, shells, and fruits. With the arrival of the art nouveau movement, designs featured flowing curves with floral motifs. In 1906, perfumer François Coty asked glass designer René Lalique to create elegant bottles for his fragrances. Soon fashion designers…

Lori Young is fascinated by things that some take for granted—butterflies, honeybees, hummingbirds, and even the humble tomato. As an artist, she delights in their details and vibrant colors. But as a former gift shop owner, Lori discovered an unexpected but equally compelling muse: tourists and homesick Southerners. Customers wanted “something Louisiana” to commemorate their visit—a keepsake, not a trinket, something to showcase the flavor of the South. “I just took it and ran with it,” Lori says in her endearing drawl. After weeks of exploring and experimenting with techniques, she created her Louisiana Series. The paintings feature her lively watercolor renderings of state icons like iris, magnolia, and crawfish. These images, however, are more than mere watercolors. From the start, Lori wanted to fuse her love of collages with…

I am often asked about the availability of flowers, especially near Valentine’s Day when bouquets of favorite blooms are so important. The commercial market, with its global resources, allows florists to secure April, May, and June blooms all year long. Not only that, but the quality of these flowers is sometimes higher when they are not yet in season in your garden. For example, because the spring-blooming tulip does not ship well in warm weather, it is best purchased commercially in the cold, winter months. Other good examples of such blooms are narcissus and amaryllis, either of which would be a lovely and cheerful choice for brightening up a room in winter. The next time you order flowers, think beyond what’s blooming outside, and ask what’s “in-season” commercially. You can…

Designer Barbara Barry has described her style as “evocative of twin sets and pearls,” so it’s no wonder that her lovely china pattern featuring a parade of petite chairs offers the perfect inspiration for this fabulously feminine setting. Reminiscent of Parisian parlor décor, the tiny seats lend beaucoups of charm to china rendered in a classic black-and-white color scheme. A shimmering taupe tablecloth furnishes the first layer of this fetching tablescape. In lieu of place mats, drape botanical print napkins at an angle, allowing the points to spill over the table’s edge. Add delicately etched crystal and heirloom sterling silver for the all-important sparkle and shine. Between the dinner and salad plates, slip in a frothy, ruffled napkin of gossamer pink silk, its color pulled from the print and echoed…

OOne of the most wonderful things about our magazine is the diversity of our staff. Though we all work toward the common goal of bringing the best to our readers, each person contributes unique perspectives and special talents to the process. These different styles and influences keep the pages fun and fresh for you, our readers. Tablescape designs with an Asian influence have us all aflutter these days, and we have two staff members to thank for it. Style Director Yukie McLean visits her native Japan several times a year, always bringing back creative inspiration and a bag full of goodies. Editor Andrea Fanning spent part of her summer teaching on the coast of China, where she had an opportunity to become immersed in the culture. She returned with a…

Here's the How To: A fabulously revamped kitchen is just minutes away with our quick and easy window redo. Measure your window, then choose a pair of chic and vibrantly hued dish towels to fit the space. Details like ruffled trim just add to the charm. Using clip-on rings, left plain or spray-painted to coordinate with your kitchen color scheme, attach towels at equally spaced intervals, and slip onto a tension rod. Slide the rod in place, then stand back and admire your instantly updated kitchen. inner circle Hanging curtains is a cinch, thanks to these clip-on rings. Simply purchase the rings at a hardware or fabric store, and spray-paint to match your décor. curtain call No time to sew? No problem! Visit your favorite kitchen or home-furnishings store for…

“Other things are just food. But chocolate’s chocolate.” —Patrick Skene Catling From brownies and bonbons to mousse and molten cakes—no matter what form chocolate takes, it has a luscious way of recalling sweet memories of romance and revelry, of comfort and celebration. This delicacy has been cherished for more than centuries. Historical record shows that the Maya of Central America held chocolate in highest esteem, bestowing it on their gods in extravagant religious celebrations. Likewise, Spanish monks were said to have treasured a secret recipe for producing chocolate, offering it only to kings, queens, and other nobles. When Spanish princess Maria Theresa married Louis XIV in 1660, she brought along heavy trunks full of cacao beans, introducing them to the French court. The story goes that Maria Theresa could be…

Well-designed interiors start with visions of delicious fabrics, exquisite antiques, original art, fine furniture, and if you’re Anita Rankin, homeowners kicking off their shoes and fully enjoying every inch of their redesigned home. “It’s my responsibility to help clients create the house or the room that they want to live in,” says Anita. And by “live,” she truly means live. The idea is no more evident than in Anita’s own home in Fairhope, Alabama, where she thinks nothing of walking over the antique rugs on her bathroom floor, stacking dishes in a grand armoire, and serving meals in her “formal” dining room for ordinary occasions. “I live all over it,” says the 30-year veteran designer, who simply doesn’t believe in rooms or furnishings that aren’t enjoyed everyday and by everyone.…

Chilly nights call for the culinary comfort of delicious and nourishing one-dish meals. Chicken Pot Pie Makes 10 to 12 servings 4 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken breast halves 10 tablespoons butter, divided 6 small red potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 3 large carrots, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 1 cup pearl onions 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper 1 teaspoon minced garlic 21/4 teaspoons salt, divided 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided 1 cup frozen green peas 3/4 cup all-purpose flour 3 cups chicken broth 1 cup heavy whipping cream 1 (15-ounce) box refrigerated pie crusts 1 large egg, lightly beaten 1. In a Dutch oven, combine chicken with enough water to cover. Bring to a boil over high heat; reduce heat, and simmer,…

Curried Carrot Soup Makes 2 servings 2 tablespoons butter 1/2 cup chopped onion 1 tablespoon minced garlic 2 cups grated carrot 1/2 cup chopped celery 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth 1/2 cup Riesling wine 1 teaspoon curry powder 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream 1 teaspoon sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper Garnish: carrot curls 1. In a medium saucepan, heat butter over medium heat until melted. Add onion and garlic; cook for 4 minutes, stirring frequently. Add carrot and celery; cook for 4 minutes, stirring frequently. Add chicken broth, wine, and curry powder. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to mediumlow, and simmer for 30 minutes. Remove from heat and cool slightly. 2. In the container of a blender, puree carrot mixture until smooth. Return puree to…

“I was born into a chocolate-loving family,” writes baking journalist Lisa Yockelson in her newest cookbook, ChocolateChocolate. Not only that, but as early as age 7, the budding baker delighted in serving up cookies and double- or triple-layer chocolate cakes to her mother’s friends and neighbors. Those early-on taste testings and further study of her family’s favorite flavor inspired Lisa’s lifelong devotion to baking with chocolate. As much a life’s passion as a life’s work, ChocolateChocolate artfully balances Lisa’s own two-sided fascination with the ingredient: chocolate temptation and cocoa mastery. The book’s gorgeous pictures, mouthwatering recipes, and indepth data bring both sides to life. But what truly unifies the effort is a desire “to simply rejoice in what is surely the most luxurious of all flavors.” After all, Lisa believes…

Weekend Delivers Demonstrations, a Gala Dinner, Shopping Tour, and More SPONSORED BY…

1. CAPITOL BOOK & NEWS Everyone from Cassandra King and Pat Conroy to Rick Bragg and our own Phyllis Hoffman has popped in for book signings. We could have spent hours happily ensconced in the Southern fiction section alone. 1140 East Fairview Avenue; 334-265-1473. 2. M. BAGWELL Artist Mandy Bagwell’s store offers her signature ceramic wares and gift items in fun and funky surroundings. We found the cutest baby feeding sets for our grandchildren and mix-and-match accent plates for ourselves. 1038 East Fairview Avenue; 334-356-4545. 3. STONEHENGE GALLERY The works of more than 50 artists from around the Southeast hang in this noted gallery. We especially loved Lorrie Lane’s nature-themed still-life paintings and Karen Tarlton’s vibrant landscapes. 1041 East Fairview Avenue; 334-262-8256. 4. SARAH HOWARD STONE The lovely and gracious…

“Come with me, and you’ll be in a world of pure imagination,” crooned Gene Wilder as the ultimate chocolate aficionado Willy Wonka. These lyrics immediately come to mind as you step through the door of Crave Chocolatier just outside Birmingham, Alabama. You are greeted with an extravagance of chocolatey goodness that sends your sweet tooth into overdrive. Chocolate-dipped strawberries, ooey-gooey caramels, European-inspired barks, sugarcoated toffee almonds, and truffles the size of golf balls line cases and shelves in this incredible sweets emporium. Whatever your fancy—milk, dark, or creamy white chocolate—Crave’s unparalleled inventory will both tempt and please you. Rest assured there is neither a wrong choice nor a limit on just how much yumminess you can take home. Owner Glyn Denton gave up life on the corporate fast track to…

The landscape may be sleeping, but our region is alive with activity. Brighten up winter with an event near you. ALABAMA ANNUAL ROSE PRUNING MOBILE—FEBRUARY 11, 2009 Come learn how to care for roses in your own yard, then join members of the Mobile Rose Society as they prune more than 2,000 roses in the award-winning Bellingrath Rose Garden. 800-247-8420; bellingrath.org FLORIDA ROMANTIC READINGS TALLAHASSEE—FEBRUARY 14, 2009 Deemed “the house that rhymes,” the historic Knott House appropriately celebrates Valentine’s Day with poetry readings, as well as music, tours, and refreshments. 850-922-2459; flheritage.com/museum KENTUCKY MID-WINTER FEASTE BARDSTOWN—JANUARY 9-11, 2009 The Bardstown Community Theatre presents a madrigal dinner complete with pageantry, drama, music, dancing, costumes, and a dinner fit for medieval royalty. 800-638-4877; visitbardstown.com LOUISIANA CAMELLIAS IN THE COUNTRY ST. FRANCISVILLE—FEBRUARY 6-7,…

Visit southernladymagazine.com/links to order FREE information from our advertisers and to link directly to their Web sites. OR, CLIP OUT THIS PAGE, check the advertisers from whom you would like to receive FREE information, then fill in your name and address and mail to: Southern Lady • P.O. Box 413050 • Naples, FL34101-3050 100 BOUTIQUE BUSINESSES & SERVICES SEND ALL FROM CATEGORY 1 INITIAL OUTFITTERS Personalized boutique-like jewelry and gifts through home parties. Earn free jewelry as a party hostess. Earn income as a ground-floor consultant! 2 JUBILATIONS, INC. Sixty flavors of cheesecakes made from real butter, natural vanilla, Philadelphia Cream Cheese, and hand-cracked fresh eggs. No preservatives. Mail Order. Fund Raising. Food Service. 3 KITCHENS ON THE SQUARE Gadgets, gifts, and tabletop items. Cooking and entertaining items for every…

To purchase items featured in our articles, please refer to the information below. If an item is not listed, it is privately owned and not available for purchase. To contact the manufacturers and retail stores referenced below, see DIRECTORY OF COMPANIES. COVER “Ulander” in Ruby china by Wedgwood and white lacy-edge napkins; Bromberg’s. CONTENTS PAGE 7: “Ulander” in Ruby china by Wedgwood; Bromberg’s. ENTERTAINING TOUCHES PAGE 34: Pitchers; At Home Furnishings. Floral design; Flower Stems. MIX AND MATCH: COLOR WONDERFUL PAGES 36-38: Floral Design; Flower Stems. SEASONAL SETTINGS: ROSES & RUFFLES PAGES 40-43: “Musical Chairs” by Barbara Barry for Wedgwood; Bloomingdale’s. Pure Couleur tablecloth in Coffee by Le Jacquard Français; Belles Choses. Floral print napkin; World Market. Lettuce edge silk organza napkin in Candy Pink; Kim Seybert. Glass cream &…