The hardest part about sticking to the FOUR HOUR BODY diet I've picked back up in the last two weeks (post holiday random eating) isn't sticking to the plan during the workweek. It's actually really easy. I keep zero temptations in the house (as in throwing out anything that even resembles bread, chips or sweets). If you don't know the premise of this diet plan, you need to read to my previous post, Slim  Down Success. It totally works and in record time. Just a few cuts of certain foods/beverages and any holiday weight will come right off. It isn't exactly fun, but it is simple and quick... two traits I welcome.

My favorite: The Milano. Sun dried tomatoes,  marinara, shrimp,
 artichokes, spinach, ricotta and mozzarella cheese

The tough decision is deciding what to splurge on on the weekly allowed 'cheat day'. But, after discovering Midtown Nashville's newest addition Soul Shine Pizza Factory, it's a no-brainer on where to go to indulge a bit. I've found a new favorite in Music City, and one that I plan on frequenting often. Even my non-dieting girlfriends love it due to their offering a healthy whole wheat crust option on their pies.

The crawfish bisque is a signature starter, and one not to miss at SoulShine.
PS: My husband LOVES this! 

If you haven't tried this new Division Street venue, I suggest trying it out this weekend. They serve both lunch and dinner. The pizza is the draw but the space is equally delicious. Hoping to see all of my Nashville friends there soon!

What's your favorite indulgence? If it's pizza, what are your go-to toppings?  Share it on the Southern Sophisticate! 

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With so many events to attend this season, the one must have is a festive bag small enough for evening glamour, but large enough to hold absolute essentials. I purchased two incredible envelope-style designer clutches last year and they just won't do for this particular season. I need to be able to take photos, communicate and have enough 'touch up' product to take me from office to full blown Christmas celebrations to music awards ceremonies and concerts. Thank goodness, a new store has just opened at The Mall at Green Hills that has the best solution. Elaine Turner may not be a household name in Nashville yet... but in a short time, I'm betting that their bags and accessories are going to be on every woman's wish list.

Elaine Turner stores are all about style & ambiance....

The store decor invites you to browse and relax, but it's the bags that showcase the designer's (who hails from Texas) talent most. I am so in love with my find. It even has a name, Blythe. I chose the bronze metallic so that I can mix it up with both black and brown ensembles. I love the fact that it has a snazzy shoulder strap to keep my hands free to hold that important glass of bubbly, and that the closure is a bit dramatic without being too much.

My Blythe bag in bronze metallic

While the bag part of the equation is taken care of, what you carry inside is just as vital. This varies for everyone, but with these items, I always feel completely prepared without overstuffing my small purse.

My go-to essentials for small bag survival

ALWAYS IN MY BAG

-My Iphone for my impromptu Instagram captures, tweeting and texting if I'm running late.

-Elf lipgloss from Target in a sheer pink.

-One of the chunky eyeliner/shadow sticks from Benefit. Staying power plus!

-Make Up Forever's Rouge Artist Natural lipstick doesn't rub off on glassware, stays put and isn't too bright. I rotate about 3-4 shades depending on what I'm wearing.

-PLa Beauty's Mineral Liquid Foundation (I pick it up at Woo Skincare and Cosmetics or Parlour 3 in Brentwood). I use this on my entire face almost every day, but it's also ideal for dabbing under eyes to wake them up and to clean up smudges throughout a late night. It's also my saving grace the next morning for hiding imperfections. 

-For a mirror and super smooth powder compact in one, Pure Pressed Base powder by Jane Iredale  in RADIANT is my choice. Since discovering this skin brightener and smoother at Private Edition, I keep it in whatever I'm carrying, always! Just a swipe keeps oil at bay but causes the light reflect in all of the right places.


What is your favorite bag to carry to holiday parties? And what item do you include no matter what? I would love to see your thoughts and suggestions. Do keep following the Southern Sophisticate and share it with your friends. There's much more holiday to come! 


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Whenever I visit a new restaurant, one of the first things I browse is the cocktail menu. Even if I'm sticking to iced tea at lunch time, my curiosity draws me to look through it. If there are over 4 martinis, I usually close the book.. realizing that the place is just trying too hard (and likely none of the drinks are particularly good). I prefer short lists of libations with sparse, fresh ingredients as opposed to a bar menu comparable to a 'Cheesecake Factory' type book. And, in certain places, I find exactly what I'm seeking: a limited list of super-inventive, mixologist creations that beg to be sampled. 

On a recent trip to Park City, Utah, I found exactly what I was looking for on an afternoon 'relaxation session' on the gorgeous balcony of the St. Regis Deer Valley resort (and so did my husband). We had just one each, shared a little for tasting and that was was enough to make the day special. While this photo doesn't quite do the drinks justice, I promise if you try them at home... you will be blown away by just how smooth and absolutely yummy they are.  

The yellow reflection in this shot is really the sun. The cucumber is ideally a
nice, light green while the gimlet is a pale pink.

CUCUMBER MARTINI
Hendricks Gin, slice of English cucumber with a bit of cucumber juice, lime juice & mint shaken with ice and served straight up.

GRAPEFRUIT GIMLET
Belvedere Grapefruit Vodka, agave nectar & lime juice served over ice with grapefruit or lemon slice garnish.

The quantities of each ingredient really depend on how many you're serving...or how strong you like your cocktail. Experiment with the ingredients and try to keep equal parts alcohol to mixer. Just make sure to choose the premium brands I've suggested (they do taste so much better). Shake well and enjoy... 


Keep following the Southern Sophisticate for more recipes and entertaining ideas, and please do share yours with me here...






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The holidays are almost here!  The hassles I can do without, but I love shopping for personal gifts, wrapping and most of all.... finding the very best things for my girlfriends. I'm crazy over the  palette collections that come from fab cosmetic brands. When I was younger, my mom would get me the 'big holiday kit' from Estee Lauder and it was always my most prized and treasured gift. Now, Estee's granddaughter has given me something I can purchase for myself and my peeps. Sleek, simple items for face (and home) are the backbones of her line... I cannot get enough!

The holiday palette, lipstick and sleek gloss from Aerin's line

 I adore the luxe pink suede bags that house all of her cosmetics & compacts. They can be used for stowing jewelry in a purse or carry on-- brilliant!  The packaging really is like a bonus gift. Most of all, I respect her heritage and the thought she's put into this brand new collection simply called AERIN. Kudos to you, Aerin Lauder for creating such an elegant but fun line of products. I plan to share as much as I can get my hands on with my friends.

Another line that wasn't created for holiday but to me, screams 'celebrate' is the Andy Warhol collection from Nars. The eyeshadows are serious works of art. But, the product I love most is the grouping of lip glosses in a 70's inspired canister. Yes, it is a collectors' limited edition, which means you need to get one asap! The glosses are compact but pack a lasting color punch. Big things do come in small packages, and this offering proves just that. I ordered 2 just to keep stocked (and for the retro-cool package). I am so excited to ditch my lady-like glass container to display makeup brushes in this vibrant vessel and of course, gift the other to a fashionable friend. 

What is your favorite holiday makeup palette on the shelves this season? And, which one are you coveting for a gift -or for yourself? Do dish on your top choices as I'm still shopping for future posts for the Southern Sophisticate.



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For as long as I can remember, I've been visiting Patchouli's on 30A. Loved their original spot in Seaside... and like their store in Rosemary Beach even more. They have a slew of fantastic products from top cosmetic, candle and skincare lines, but what I can't get enough of is their custom scent bar. Yes, you can create your own lotion, perfume...or my favorite....body oil.

My top choice is always their Sweet Almond Oil ($20). It is the most incredible blend; choose a scent that speaks to you. They are fantastic at mixing it up. I almost always go back to the one I fell in love with, aptly named 'the beach'. It's a blend that reminds me of dunes, sand and great times. I purchase 3-4 bottles each visit. 

For when I cannot get to this beach-lovers haven, I create my own concoction at home. It will never master the same scent as their beach version, but it works for me. I use their bottles to mix in, and to display in my shower to make it feel like I'm indulging a bit.


BODY OIL BLEND

2 cups grape seed oil (from the grocery)
3-4 drops of lavender essential oil
3-4 drops of vanilla essential oil

Mix together and keep in your shower. Put on before you dry off for silky smooth skin. Also play with the essential oils and fragrances to come up with something you love. There is an incredible selection at Whole Foods Body, so you can change it up to suit your taste. If you love fig, basil or anything else, chances are there is an essential oil on the shelf. Cost per bottle... about $4, which makes it even sweeter!


I'm headed to 30A in less than 12 hours and will definitely pick up the latest concoctions from Patchouli's, but would love to hear about your favorite products.. and where you get them? Please do share it all on the Southern Sophisticate? read more

There's something about artificial heat (both gas and electric) that sends my skin into a state of panic. Every year, it's the same thing. I start peeling like I have a sunburn. With the milder weather we've been having during the day, bare legs with skirts should be fine...but not so much if they're in a state of massacre. So, over time I've found trusted ways to solve the problem. Lotions and topical oils help, but it really does start with exfoliation. Not just any old scrub will do. I've tried dozens, and the one that I totally swear by is Brown Sugar Body Polish from Fresh that I pick up at Private Edition. The key to getting the full benefit is to really work it into DRY skin before you turn on that shower head. I also like to let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing off. The effect usually lasts a couple of days, even with gym visits and multiple bathings. It's a miracle product that I turn all of my friends onto. The indulgent oils, the citrus-sugar scent, the rich feel... it's salvation in a plastic tub.

The only problem is that I like to use quite a bit, and go through it too quickly. With a retail price of $65, it can get pretty pricey if you don't use it sparingly. And what's the fun in that? So, after multiple tubs each winter, I've finally learned how to create my own at home. I am SO not a do-it-yourself type, but this is super easy and actually enjoyable to create. I simply take one of the empty tubs from my Fresh stash and fill it with my own concoction.

SUGAR SCRUB

2/3 cup grapeseed oil (from the grocery isle)
The juice of two lemons
3 TBSP packed brown sugar
1.5 cups Sugar in the Raw

Simply loosely mix all together and voila.. you have a week's worth of daily skin saving scrub at a fraction of the cost of the luxe brand. Smells and feels just as fab... and more importantly, delivers the same skin-saving results!

Things I do still buy from the line are their individual packets of the Brown Sugar Body Polish for travel (if I can find them), and the line's Sugar Berry Tinted Lip Treatment.  In bulk, of course! 

What's your trusted go-to product for fighting the impact of winter? I would love to know your secrets? Share with me and do follow the Southern Sophisticate. I'm going to be sharing a couple more homemade concoctions based on the ingredients of my favorite product lines. Stay tuned!  read more

It's getting cold out and I'm desperately wanting rich, noodle-laden soups and pasta bowls. BUT... I am not going to slip and let that happen. So, tonight I made the most simple, inexpensive soup on the planet to get me through the first few nights of this week. Bonus? This is one of my husband's all-time favorites (and he is definitely NOT on this diet).  There are tons of recipes for taco soup. I found my original in Southern Living years ago and have been making it during this season since. 

Canned and frozen veggies take on amazing flavor with just a little simmering on the stove

This is my 'adapted version' to cut out any of the carbs (sigh, no tortilla strip garnishes,chips or sour cream for me). But, I have to admit, it is satisfying, rich and so flavorful that you almost forget that it's a Four Hour Body approved dish.

The finished product: warm, healthy and spicy enough to keep cravings at bay!

TACO SOUP

1.5 Tbsp olive oil
One medium yellow onion, diced
1.5 lbs ground turkey 
1 pkg taco seasoning
2/3 cup water
1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 jalepeno pepper, seeded and diced
1 can Ro*tel diced tomatoes with lime and cilantro
1 can Goya black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can Goya red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp garlic salt 
1 can chicken broth
1 carton chicken stock ( 2-2.5 cups)


Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened (4-5 min). Add the ground turkey and cook until browned. Stir in the water and taco seasoning, bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes. Add the peppers and cook another 4-5 minutes. Pour in all canned vegetables,  corn, chicken broth/stock and spices. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer on low 30 minutes. Serve in a bowl and garnish with avocado slices or fresh cilantro. Makes 8-10 servings and keeps well for 4-5 days.


This also works well with shredded chicken or turkey, making it a great recipe for Thanksgiving leftovers. Do you have any Slow Carb recipes to share? I would love to see your ideas. Please 'dish' here.... and do follow the Southern Sophisticate.

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Yes, a few days in and I am getting into the swing of things on the Four Hour Body diet. I've taken to hard-boiling a dozen eggs at a time and pre-rinsing black beans - keeping both in plastic containers in the fridge for on-the-run eating. Hey, it's a busy week!

But... all of the pumpkin, caramel cake and stew recipes I keep seeing on Pinterest have me wanting something indulgently fall. No need to wait for a cheat day... I've discovered the PERFECT way to satisfy my craving without breaking any rules. I can't engage in the pumpkin cupcake craze, but I can totally enjoy butternut squash if it's properly prepared. They are offering butternut squash almost daily at the food bar at the Turnip Truck near my office-- simply roasted with olive oil, salt and pepper. It is SO yummy. When paired with a bit of protein, it's the perfect meal. If you don't have time to cook, simply pick it up at one of their locations. But, if you want to make your own..here's the ideal recipe (even better due to the added spices):


BUTTERNUT SQUASH SALVATION

3 good size butternut squash, diced into 1" -1.5" pieces (fyi-- the chopping is the HARDEST part)
2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (I like Lucini, always)
1.5 tsp grey salt
2 Tbsp minced garlic
2 Tbsp dried or fresh parsley
2 tsp aged balsamic vinegar
1/2 tsp ground black pepper

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Toss squash in a large bowl with all ingredients. Put onto a large baking sheet (or two) and place into the oven for 35 minutes, turning once halfway through for ideal browning on both sides.

When I'm roasting these, I use the remaining squash (there's always tons since I'm not cooking for a crowd) for other dishes. I sometimes cut them into various shapes just to keep things interesting. Beneath roast chicken breast slices and sprinkled with a bit of rosemary salt, they take on a whole new flavor. Ditto with their appearance in my chickpea chili.

CHICKPEA & SQUASH CHILI

2 Tbsp olive oil
2 8oz cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 large yellow onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 small can tomato paste
1/4 cup sliced green olives
1/2 cup water
1.5 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp ground red pepper
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
3 cups low sodium chicken broth (organic)
1 large (24-28 oz can crushed tomatoes)
3-4 cups diced, cooked/roasted butternut squash
1 cup thawed frozen green peas
Freshly chopped parsley for garnish

In a dutch oven, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion 5 minutes, add garlic and continue to sauté  for another 2 minutes. Stir in tomato paste, broth, water, spices, olives and tomatoes. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, add chickpeas and simmer for 45 minutes to an hour. Add squash and peas and simmer for another 10 minutes. Keep all leftovers in an airtight container. Reheats well up to 3 days later.


What's your favorite way to enjoy fall vegetables while trying to keep it light and healthy? Please share... and don't forget to follow the Southern Sophisticate. More recipes to come!

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I know that there are a zillion 'proven' diets out there. From the countless websites, books, cookbooks and exercise regimes -- people are willing to do anything to lose a few pounds. But, I'm not one of those people. I receive the magazines with the week's worth of eating plans, point counting and exercise journals. And guess what? I am just not willing to work that hard. With an already overloaded work and social schedule, the last thing I want to do is shop for tons of  ingredients, worry about planning special meals or keep up with more numbers! Ditto for buying equipment for particular workouts. It just isn't going to happen.


Every year, it is about this time that I feel my jeans getting a little tight (yep...the dreaded muffin top) and my dresses a bit too snug for comfort. Late summer always leaves me lax, and softer for it. Vacations and longer days (for sitting on patios enjoying big cocktails and the snacks that come with) are my body image's worst enemy. But, I'm vain enough to never let it get out of hand. A year ago I found a program that works without stressing me out, and in record time. I really like doing it a month before the holidays (as in NOW) and then again in January for several weeks. Keeps me in check and in all of the experimenting over the years, I have NEVER found anything easier or that works as well.

 My secret? A couple of chapters in a book that has been quite controversial. The book is FOUR HOUR BODY by Timothy Ferris. This guy is all over the map with his experiments and promises all kinds of results in various chapters on everything from better sex to super strength. I basically skip all of that and just focus on two chapters concerning 'The Slow Carb Diet'. His claim is losing 20 lbs of body fat in 30 days, and if you follow the rules -- IT TOTALLY WORKS! Add in some strength training and you will seriously tone up and lose a couple of sizes in your clothes. 

What I like most is no complicated menus or too much to think about. I stick to very similar choices from a long list (black beans, eggs, chicken, lean organic beef, spinach and other fresh veggies are my go-to's). While there are lots of options, limiting my choices makes it easy for me to streamline. There is an allowed (and highly suggested) 'cheat day' weekly-- where the author insists you eat every possible thing you can get down/have craved. It's a bit of a trick if you do this, as you feel sluggish and bloated for 24 hours-- which drives you right back to the clean choices on the slow carb plan, and happy to do it. There are downers on the regular days, like no cheese/dairy, bread, sugar or Champagne (although wine is ok on this diet-- thank goodness). But, there's no hunger and the cheat day keeps you from feeling completely deprived. SO, I am back on this plan starting tomorrow. Combined with my regular workouts (standard for me) at Takes 2 Fitness, I have complete confidence that I will be noticeably slimmer by this time next month. And, posting it here keeps me accountable to follow through. 

Let me know if you pick up the book, and what you think?  Follow my progress here on the Southern Sophisticate where I will also be sharing variations on easy, quick recipes from just a few ingredients.



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Every weekend that I'm in town, I try to make at least one dinner that's healthy, delicious and not too complicated. Chopping or marinating I don't mind. But, I'm not crazy about any recipe that leaves me perplexed or questioning how things will turn out. I want something I know will be good. With cooler temperatures... also warm and comforting to those I'm serving. This combination never fails me....

Fresh local fare picked up from The Produce Place

MENU (serves 4)

Roasted Vegetables
Italian Pork Roast
Salt Roasted Onions
Honey Roasted Applesauce (the best condiment on the planet)

To keep every dish from having the word 'roast' involved, I always serve a salad with lots of greens and a very light dressing for a bit of balance.

ROASTED VEGETABLES

Chop 6 cups fresh, ripe vegetables and toss in a bowl with 1/4 cup garlic-infused olive oil (I make my own, but you can find options at Fresh Market) along with 1 tsp of course salt and 2 tsp of fresh ground pepper. Put all pieces onto baking sheets in a 350 degree oven for 20-25 minutes. Toss slightly with a spatula halfway through cooking time to brown evenly. Serve warm. 

I use whatever looks best at the market (in season). Two cups of each veg in approx 2" pieces. This time it was carrots, zucchini, asparagus and purple onions. Next week it might be butternut squash instead of the zucchini. Sometimes I toss in brussels sprouts instead of asparagus. Basically, anything you like works. Leftovers are ideal to use in cold salads.

'ITALIAN' PORK ROAST

One 2-2.5lb (room temperature) organic boneless pork loin
3 cloves garlic, each cut into 2 even slices
2 TBSP Lucini olive oil (this is my favorite all-natural choice, always)
2.5 TBSP dried Italian seasoning (I prefer using my own dried oregano and basil, but store-bought blends work just as well)
2 tsp coarsely ground pepper

Prep and clean up is super easy with a simple roasting pan.

Place roast (fat side up) in shallow roasting pan. Cut slits evenly at 1-2 inch intervals and insert garlic pieces. Brush oil evenly over entire roast. Rub with seasoning and pepper. Bake uncovered at 325 degrees for 45 minutes. Remove from oven, take out garlic and allow to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing into 2/3" pieces. Once sliced, top with a thin layer of the applesauce.


Most of this menu has evolved based on things I've learned over time in seeking quick, accessible dishes. But, the onions are an adaption from chef Michael Chialrello's At Home Cookbook. I love his recipes, and also purchase many of my salts and other seasonings from his store, Napa Style. I pick up a few items when visiting each fall (replenishing via online orders throughout the year). The quality is consistently suburb. I order frequently, and always receive fresh, potent product.

Suggested wine with this meal? The Feast from Cultivate Wines...

SALT ROASTED ONIONS

 4 yellow onions, unpeeled
 Kosher Salt
 1/3 cup aged balsamic vinegar 
 Finely ground grey sea salt from Napa Style
 Freshly ground black pepper

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Slice the stem off of each onion. Spread a 1/4 " thick layer of salt in the bottom of a metal baking pan. Arrange onions evenly on top of salt (nestling each a bit). Roast for at least an hour, up to 90 minutes (until they are dark brown in spots). Near the end of the cooking time, in a saucepan, simmer the vinegar over low heat to reduce by half (20 min). Once onions are removed from oven, pick each one up with a towel, remove ONLY the very outer layer of papery skin. Cut a deep 'X' in the top and drizzle balsamic syrup evenly over each one. Season with gray salt and pepper. 

** I have these cooking for at least a 1/2 hour and then put the chopped vegetables in the same oven -the result is amazing. I also usually double the onion recipe and place the extras in a ziplock in the fridge and add to soups, sautés and even sandwiches. They keep well for 6-8 days.

What is your go-to meal for your family or for company that always turns out well?  Do share! 





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• When you're in the Caribbean, nothing is more welcoming than a cool drink. At the end of a boat ride, flight or after a long day in the sun. Their concoctions are always just sweet enough to put a smile on your face (and strong enough to keep it there for hours). One liquor that I don't use enough at home is rum. It really is so versatile...and delicous!

• 
  
•  On the islands, they serve it with fresh juice, but a similar mixture
•  can be just as soothing with hot tea and a splash of cranberry on
•  a cold day. I do think that the simple recipe served up by the 
• pitcher at Jumby Bay is always delicious. This is one recipe I plan 
• to make every time cabin fever sets in this winter to bring me 
• 'back to the beach'. 
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• CARIBBEAN RUM PUNCH
• 1 oz light rum (I like Bacardi)
• 1 oz quality dark rum (we got a very special island blend, but locally, Prichards is the BEST)
• 2 oz fresh orange juice
• 1 oz fresh pineapple juice
• 1 TBSP freshly squeezed lime juice
• Ice cubes
• 1 lime (and/or pineapple), thinly sliced, for garnish
• Dash of nutmeg 
  
  
  Shake juices and rum well, pour over ice and garnish with spices and fruit. Makes one glass. Triple the recipe for a group! 

What is your favorite Rum Drink Recipe? Please do share it here on the Southern Sophisticate! 

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When I told my husband we were taking a weekend to Greenville, SC the look he gave me was not excitement. I think he pictured pastures, chain restaurants or maybe strip malls? Not sure, but after an hour of exploring this quaint downtown, he was as in love with the location as I am. Fortunately, we arrived just in time for the annual Euphoria Celebration, so there was lots to enjoy (although the downtown historic district is charming pretty much all the time). I have my friend Danielle to thank for discovering this very special place and event.

In the kitchen 'helping' Chef Carmen Quagliata from NYC's Union Square Cafe
at one of Euphoria's private ticketed dinners (the best part of the weekend); The Loft at Soby's.

Euphoria is a relatively new food, music and wine festival compared to others, but one that draws big-name culinary talents and a dynamic foodie crowd. The series of 3 days is packed with seminars, demonstrations and in our case, flat out gluttony. Delicious fare was literally everywhere. A fashionable Southern crowd and great music made it even more enjoyable. This is definitely an event that we will put on our calendar every fall.

The hotel facade is one of the district's most breathtaking sites

For reservations, the downtown area boasts several hotels. We set up camp at their lovely Westin Poinsett, which is in the heart of everything. Constructed in 1925 but with completely renovated facilities, it is a local favorite. Even without the festival happenings, here we were in steps of my favorite restaurants like Soby's, Devereaux and High Cotton. I also relish in browsing the unique shops along the tree-lined streets and perusing the fab wine selection at Bouharoun's art deco style liquor store.

With tastings that look this good, resisting isn't a possibility 

One of the cheese sampling tables in the wine tent at Euphoria

After a bit too much time in the tasting tents (overeating is a given), we took a stroll to discover one of the most incredible stores I've ever visited, Postcard from Paris. I snapped up a gorgeous light fixture for my writing room, and made a note of coveted items to put on my holiday wish list. Even if you can't make the trip, browse their site for amazing Parisian inspired finds for the home. Seriously. Sensational. Shopping!

From rugs and fixtures to imported French furniture,
Postcard from Paris is a decor lover's dream 

Every weekend from spring through late fall, the entire downtown converts to a strolling street fare with an enormous farmer's market on one end of town and countless little tents with artists selling their creations on the other. For a break from temptation, a walk across the river and through the city park is only steps away. At every stopping point there is a breathtaking piece of sculpture or other captivating piece of art. This is one city that entertains at every turn.

The park is one of downtown Greenville's best kept secrets. Gorgeous!

If you haven't been to Greenville... GO! Flights are fast and cheap on Southwest (direct from Nashville). Stellar dining, history, nature and welcoming people are all part of the mix. 

What is your choice for a small town destination weekend? I would love to hear your suggestions. And, if you've been to Greenville, SC or to Euphoria, please do share your top picks. read more

Each October, I get the chance to be a part of the 'big reveal' of Nashville's 25 Most Beautiful People via my position with Nashville Lifestyles Magazine. While countless hours go into the issue, the annual party celebrating our honorees makes it totally worth it. Seeing members of my team dressed up and mingling with celebrities, our fab advertisers and other members of the media is such a treat.

With one of the magazine's most deserving MBP's, the lovely Denise
 and her famous husband, Alan Jackson. 
'

This year, we chose the venue of our new advertising partners, Flyte World Dining and Wine. And, I highly suggest them for putting together an amazing spread for your special event-- or just for a memorable dinner if you are visiting Music City (for my out of town readers). The ambiance is chic but casual... and the food is Out.Of.This.World. (which appropriately works with their name).

One of the inventive appetizers from Flyte's creative culinary team.

The real star of the night, our 13th anniversary issue, featuring Lisa Marie Presley on the cover.

Having fun sponsors allows us to get creative. From the gorgeous new Cadillacs parked at the front door to the shoe-shaped cookies to honor the Clarks brand-- we highlighted everyone involved.

So cute-- a dessert station honoring styles from Clarks.

Since I was in a bit of a rush this year, I let Melissa Schleicher of Parlour 3 work her magic in putting 'my party face on'. Hey, if she can regularly glam up Carrie Underwood for concerts and the red carpet, I knew she could offer me a bit of help. Her airbrush approach was light/not overdone and really did last all night.  I also have to give kudos to Martha Nemer at The Cotton Mill for the perfect dress and accessories. She never lets me down in finding something totally comfortable but glamorous.

By this point in the night, I had put my hair up in a knot. With my adorable husband, Tim Nichols 
and my makeup guru, Melissa from Parlour 3.


What is your favorite place to host a (out of home) party and what/who are your go-to sources for getting prepared? I would love to know...so please do share your insider tips with the Southern Sophisticate. And, if you haven't picked up the magazine.. get the entire issue online: www.nashvillelifestyles.com.

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This time last year, I was still in the early stages of working out the plans for my dream closet (a formal living room with big bay windows was being walled in and transformed). After a few weeks and lots of insight and detail work from the team at Pierce & Co. in Nashville, my personal closet wasn't only perfect, but ready for a close up on the HGTV show Interiors, Inc.

Having everything in perfect order isn't always the case, but  is
 OH so lovely when it is!

Fast forward a year.... and my quarters are far less spacious (all the photos here are of the former closet). But, I am making it work. The custom pieces that Brad Ramsey and Jonathan Pierce had made for me are actually ideal in the new setting. I've pared down a few things, dividing seasonal items into storage and ALMOST have all of my essentials exactly the way that I want them.

From folded jeans and scarves to jewelry and personal treasures, display is key.

My rules for ideal closet design:

I want everything arranged by color and placed where I can see it. I don't operate well with drawers for primary clothing items (since I am usually rushed), so I hang almost everything in plain view. That includes my belts. I feel the same way about shoes. I just ripped out an entire closet for wide, open shoe shelves for easy access.

Speaking of hangers, I cannot stand wire or even the rubber ones from the cleaners. I like streamlined acrylic plastic (The Container Store is a wonderland of great hangers!). For sweaters and items that might pull or stretch, the only way to go aside from folding is felt-covered. Instead of some crazy color, I choose those in a light taupe to compliment my furnishings. It just looks cleaner.

For jewelry, I like a showcase. Fun bars on the walls and open boxes are great. Hidden compartments in drawers are good for special occasion pieces that need to be kept properly.

Don't underestimate the power of beauty beyond function. I love having my most prized designer clutches on display, a few fashion books and a favorite photo or two where I can see them. It makes the chore of getting ready for work (or play) more of a treat.

Keep things like dirty clothes or mending items out of sight. Otherwise, you will feel harried by stacks or 'to do' items when you need to focus on looking your best for the day ahead.  This (and underwear) is what drawer space is for ideally. My custom dresser has built in hampers, and I wouldn't trade them for anything.

Easy-pull drawers house chunkier items I only wear on occasion and cabinets
 hide wrinkled or soiled items. 

In  this house, I'm separating my dressing room and actual clothes closet due to the space configuration, and cannot wait to complete both so that I can share them here. While these I am attempting to perfect doing solo (since I already have the key pieces), I can't thank the design team who gave me the inspiration enough. I will be forever organized (and in their debt) for showing me what a great closet can truly be! Their ideas were amazing and have made a huge difference in how I value my personal space.

My dressing table is still one of my most cherished possessions.
I also adore the clear chairs that the Pierce & Co. team found for me.

Do you have a favorite closet design or tip? PLEASE share it here, as I am in the middle of this project and need all the inspiration I can get! Please follow and keep up with The Southern Sophisticate....the revealed project is coming soon. read more