1.First, tell us a little bit about yourself!

I’m a wife, mother, working professional, avid decorator, and lover of entertaining and styling. I grew up in South Carolina and am now proud to be living in our nation’s capital…or just across the bridge from it! You can find me perusing estate sales, traveling, and seeking out inspiration anywhere I go. My favorite weekends are spent with my husband and son exploring our beautiful area. 

 2. We just love your blog, “Magnolia Stripes.” What inspired you to start it?

I started Magnolia Stripes to share how entertaining can be fun and accessible, even with a packed schedule. Hosting is something I learned from my mother – everything from arranging flowers to styling a Thanksgiving centerpiece. I absolutely love sharing my tips and tricks in the hopes that others can entertain, style, and live beautifully no matter what their day looks like.

 3. Tell us a little bit about your personal style when it comes to entertaining and throwing a great party.

I love putting together an elaborate spread. There’s just nothing better. I always tend to be more maximalist when it comes to it and I just can’t help myself. 

4. What is your #1 entertaining etiquette tip? Or something a lot of people may not know about?

A dinner party is so much like a symphony. Sometimes you want the strings to come in at one moment, but not before the percussion. The same goes with ensuring that conversation keeps going, wine is flowing just enough, and the cadence of the evening is timed without any awkward pauses. Taking care to seat guests who may know someone in the same line of business, vacation in the same place, or have friends in common is a wonderful way to begin an evening and create those fabulous introductions that are truly lasting – and how fabulous that it began at your home!

5. If you had to choose between an outdoor picnic, Thanksgiving dinner, or a chic cocktail party, which would be your favorite event to host?

I love a good outdoor event. My ideal one to host would be in a fabulous garden underneath a canopy of lights with over-the-top cocktail attire and no shoes. The menu would be nothing but farmers’ market veggies and fruits with loads of rosé. 

6. Of course we have to ask about stationery! What is it that you love about paper?

A beautiful envelope liner makes me weak in the knees. There is just something about that added little touch! I also love a good, thick cardstock. The thought and time that goes into writing out a letter, thank you note, or sending a smile will always mean more than a text, email, or DM. Some things never go out of style!

7. What’s your correspondence style? Do you set aside a specific time to write, or do you send notes when the mood strikes?

Normally when it’s fresh on my mind. I always aim to send my thank you notes and correspondence in a timely fashion so that conversations at a dinner party hosted by a friend or that fabulous cocktail served at the host’s party last weekend aren’t forgotten. A lot of thought goes into every detail when you host or give a gift, so I love acknowledging those special little touches that make for a special moment.