My first real introduction to Oriental rugs was at the auction house where I worked several years ago. I was totally entranced by the vibrant colors and intricate designs. I asked our rug appraiser to teach me about the styles, quality, and history, and she graciously shared her knowledge, starting me on the path to… The post How to Care for Your Handmade Rugs appeared first on Pender & Peony - A Southern Blog ..read more

A look at our green and white traditional nursery for baby James and the baby gear that has saved our lives the past 6 weeks! What a whirlwind the past 6 weeks have been as we welcomed our first baby to the world almost 6 weeks ahead of his 40 week due date. I cannot… The post A Peek at Our Nursery & The Baby Gear We Can’t Live Without appeared first on Pender & Peony - A Southern Blog ..read more

Curio IQ Series: Let’s take a short and sweet lesson in antiques! Today, we are looking at the 3 things you should know before investing in a handmade Persian rug. The exotic magic of Persian rugs has captured the imagination and attracted devotees for centuries, and what's not to love? The intricate patterning, the vibrant… The post 3 Things You Should Know About Persian Rugs appeared first on Pender & Peony - A Southern Blog ..read more

Let's tour my living room decorated in a joyous Christmas aesthetic that blends Grandmillennial style with Williamsburg tradition using pink and red Christmas decor, magnolia, orange pomanders, and vintage touches. JOY I always come back to this word as the root of Christmas. To feel it, receive it, and give it in big ways and… The post A Grandmillennial Meet Williamsburg Christmas Look appeared first on Pender & Peony - A Southern Blog ..read more

Deck the halls this holiday in a preppy Chinoiserie Christmas style with loads of plaid decor, blue and white porcelain, pops of red, and merry reindeer!  Papa Elf: And where do the reindeer get their magic from? Buddy: Christmas spirit. Everybody knows that. I love this line from Elf! If I could pick Christmas decor… The post An Elf Approved Preppy Chinoiserie Christmas appeared first on Pender & Peony - A Southern Blog ..read more

Simplify your holiday tablescapes this year with my tips to style your table for Thanksgiving to Christmas using crossover themes, ideas, and tableware. One of my absolute favorite things about the holiday season is designing and creating tablescapes for friends and family to gather round. I love pairing china and beautiful linens. I love arranging… The post Thanksgiving to Christmas Crossover Table Ideas appeared first on Pender & Peony - A Southern Blog ..read more

Cook up this delicious apple cider based autumn wassail for all the fall flavor but none of the alcohol! For us pregnant ladies looking to enjoy the traditional drinks of autumn and winter, it feels a bit disappointing to miss out on the mulled wines, hot toddies, and wassails! Am I right? So on our… The post Homemade Autumn Wassail – No Alcohol appeared first on Pender & Peony - A Southern Blog ..read more

Tucked away in a little Tennessee state park is a rustic cabin by the lake where we love to hike and enjoy the glorious autumn leaves! From a rocker on a screened in porch watching this peaceful morning view coffee never tasted so good. A delicious breakfast of scrambled eggs, bacon, and chocolate croissants set… The post A Fall Adventure to a Cabin by the Lake appeared first on Pender & Peony - A Southern Blog ..read more

A look at my Halloween mantel in the family room with Witchy Jane aka my Staffordshire spaniel, thrifted jack-o'-lanterns, and fall florals.   LOL this post title truly sounds like there is a rock band about to play on my family room mantel...don't you agree? Witchy Jane & The Jack-O'-Lanterns...on stage at Dogwood House October… The post Witchy Jane & The Jack-O’-Lanterns: My Halloween Mantel appeared first on Pender & Peony - A Southern Blog ..read more

Incorporate charming vintage fall decor into your seasonal decorating for timeless and unique autumn style. Antique and vintage decor is always my go to when decorating my home and others'. I believe in shopping second hand and hunting out that previously loved piece for the patina and charm. So today peonies, I thought I would… The post Vintage Fall Decor – My Top 10 appeared first on Pender & Peony - A Southern Blog ..read more