for the love of color H O M E F E AT U R E W I T H WA R E H O U S E D E S I G N
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TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S
26 | HOME FEATURE Eads homeowners embrace new ideas of their designers, Lauren Ware and Jessica Risinger of WareHouse Design.
40 | GETAWAY A girls’ trip to The Alluvian in Greenwood, MS blends luxury, laughter and local flavor into one unforgettable weekend. 8 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • January 2026
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TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S
JANUARY 2026 home & design 26 HOME FEATURE For the Love of Color
food & travel 40 GETAWAY
The Alluvian Hotel in Greenwood, Mississippi
46 TRAVEL
Napa Valley Uncorked: Where Every Sip Tells a Story
56 IN THE KITCHEN Oyster Stew
for you 58 HEALTHY YOU
New Year: Setting Intentions that Restore You!
64 ON A GOOD NOTE
Memphis Heritage
in every issue
14 PUBLISHER'S NOTE
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65 SOURCES
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JANUARY 2026 • VOL. 24 NO. 10 PUBLISHER / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR MARGARET MONGER | mmonger@athomemms.com
MANAGING EDITOR AUBREY ANN MONGER | aamonger@athomemms.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNER GINNI JONES | gjones@athomemms.com
COPY EDITOR TERRI GLAZER
IMAGING COLOR MANAGEMENT CHARLES REYNOLDS | cr@colorretouching.com
ADVERTISING SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE HILARY FRANKEL | hafrankel@comcast.net
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES GAIL HARRELL | gharrell@athomemms.com CHRIS PUGH | chrisapugh@gmail.com
BUSINESS DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS TRIP MONGER | tmonger@athomemms.com
MARKETING AND CIRCULATION HARRIET W. DEATON | hdeaton@athomemms.com
HOW TO REACH US 7776 FARMINGTON BLVD, # 1321 GERMANTOWN TN 38183 | 901.684.4155 ATHOMEMMS.COM At Home Memphis & Mid South doesn't accept unsolicited manuscripts. To inquire about freelance opportunities, send a letter, resume and three writing samples to—Editor, At Home Memphis & Mid South: 7776 Farmington Blvd, # 1321 Germantown TN 38183. SUBSCRIPTIONS Call 901.684.4155 or subscribe at athomemms. com. Annual subscription rate: $19.95. Single copy price: $4.99. At Home Memphis & Mid South is published 12 times a year. Postmaster: Send address changes to At Home Memphis & Mid South, 7776 Farmington Blvd, #1321 Germantown TN 38183. We make every effort to correct factual mistakes or omissions in a timely and candid manner. Information can be forwarded to Trip Monger; At Home Memphis & Mid South, 7776 Farmington Blvd, #1321 Germantown TN 38183. or to tmonger@athomemms.com.
@athomemagazine
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W
el come to the Ja nua r y i ssue of At Ho m e Mem p h i s & M id S ou th Ma ga z i ne, where a new yea r bri ngs f resh i nspi rati on fo r ever y corner of your hom e a nd ever y a spec t of your l i festy l e. As we step i nto 2 0 2 6 , our foc us turns to renewa l , comfort a nd c reativity— va l ues that a re at the hea rt of thi s month’s features. I nsi de, you’ l l di scover a hom e updated a nd ref reshed to better s ui t the new c ha pter i n a coupl e’s l i fe. If travel i s pa rt of your plans i n 2 0 2 6 , we hope our v i si t to wi ne countr y i nspi res you to f in ally bo ok that a dventure you have ta l ked a bout for yea rs. If a trip to C al i forni a i s a bi t too fa r ri ght now, the l ovel y Al l uv i a n Hotel is just a s hort dri ve through the Mi ssi ssi ppi Del ta . W i th a n awa rd-winn ing s pa a nd c ul i na r y experi enc es, i t m a kes the perfec t getaway to re j uvenate your body a nd soul af ter the hol i day sea son. W hether you’re l ook i ng to ref resh your i nteri ors, tr y a new recipe o r f i nd m i ndf ul ways to sta rt the yea r, thi s i ssue i s desi gned to s pa rk your i ma gi nati on a nd support your a spi rati ons. Here’s to a bea uti f ul , i nspi red sta rt to 2 0 2 6 . I hope your days wi l l be f i lled with j oy, your ni ghts f i l l ed wi th rest a nd your hea rt wi th grati tude. As a l ways, tha nk you for m a k i ng us pa rt of your j ourney. Cheers !
- Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER
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H O M E F E AT U R E
For the Love of Color D E S I G N B Y W A R E H O U S E D E S I G N | S T O R Y B Y T E R R I G L A Z E R | P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y S T E FA N I E R A W L I N S O N PHOTOGRAPHY | CONTRAC TOR: NICK ROBBINS CO.
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H O M E F E AT U R E
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"It takes a lot of trust to embrace significant change in a home, and these homeowners approached
the process with openness and generosity. We worked closely with them to make sure every decision felt thoughtful and aligned with how they envisioned living in the space.” Designer Lauren Ware commends her clients on their willingness to embrace new ideas for renovating their Eads home. The couple had lived in the sprawling ranch-style house for about a year before mounting the major renovation project, a strategy Ware says was wise. As recent empty nesters, they wanted to refit the place for their new phase of life and to bring color into their surroundings. They reached out to Ware, owner of WareHouse Design, to guide the effort. “Almost every surface was touched; every bathroom, all the floors, the kitchen. It went literally down to studs, with us walking through saying, ‘Let’s put an electrical switch here, an outlet here, strip lighting here,’ and so on,” Ware recalls.
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H O M E F E AT U R E
The
living room’s new life included removing a wall and replacing it with a swanky bar area. For big impact, Ware selected Sherwin Williams Urbane Bronze, a deep gray/brown. WareHouse Design lead designer Jessica Risinger suggested taking the drama up a notch by painting the ceiling Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black, an even more saturated shade. “That must have felt a little scary to the clients, but it really works. With the great light fixture we added, we were able to accomplish that goal of creating a grand entrance. When you first walk in it’s beautiful—welcoming, but not too intimidating,” says Risinger. An oversized sectional sofa works perfectly, given the large size of the living area. In fact, almost every room in the home has grand proportions, a fact Ware says had to be considered when selecting furnishings. “Scale was so important because the rooms are large and the ceilings are tall. We really wanted to make sure it didn’t look like dollhouse furniture,” she explains. Indulging the homeowners’ love for color, the designers chose deep blush velvet upholstery for the room’s main seating. A coffee table made from the ball root of a plantation-grown teak tree adds a natural element, bringing indoors a nod to the beauty of the home’s secluded setting. Opposite the bar, the fireplace wall received a fresh new treatment. In place of the original vintage look with heavy wood built-ins, the space now holds a clean-lined limestone mantel flanked by simple base cabinets. Over each unit hangs an original painting the couple commissioned from local artist Carol Coffey Clark. One depicts their extended family, while the other is a melange of places and things they love.
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The
client wanted to transform the dining room into her home office, but keep the space’s footprint intact so that it could still function in its original capacity if needed. WareHouse Design obliged, adding six-lite French doors for times when privacy is a must. The team created an upscale contemporary ambiance, choosing a show-stopping crystal and brass chandelier and color drenching the walls, ceiling and trim in a dusky purple, one of the owner’s favorite colors. With two islands, the original kitchen layout felt choppy and awkward, says Risinger. The new version features better flow and appliance placement that makes more sense. Practical and beautiful, the look is elegant with cabinets painted a warm white, topped with bianco superior quartzite countertops and backsplashes in soft, neutral tones. Dramatic dark gray gets a repeat here in the spacious single island that combines seating and workspace seamlessly. The designers also reprised the mulberry theme on the chairs they paired with a round glass-top table in the adjoining breakfast area. The nook opens into a slightly sunken den where the homeowners enjoy watching football together. The room’s mood is relaxed with plenty of comfortable seating, including a high table and barstools behind the sofa, perfect for a snack or casual meal without missing a single play. Even the couple’s beloved felines have a comfy spot just for them—a series of custom round cat condos mounted on the wall beside the TV are as much art as they are pet accommodations.
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H O M E F E AT U R E
Formerly
one of the largest rooms in a home full of big spaces, the primary bedroom was completely reimagined by the WareHouse Design team. Says Risinger, “This room used to be almost twice the size, and it was unnecessary and overwhelming. It wasn’t cozy; so big they almost needed a living room within the bedroom, and that’s not really conducive to most people’s lifestyle. We kept the fireplace where it was but added a wall and were able to get creative on the other side of it.” Their ingenious new design includes a separate closet for the husband and a rework of his home gym. The designers employed color drenching again in the bedroom, using a warm hue, and kept the new furnishings and bedding in a complementary palette, creating a tranquil mood. Ware says when undertaking a large-scale renovation like this one, she always bears in mind that it’s unnecessary to fix what isn’t broken. For that reason, she kept the footprint the same in the beautiful primary bathroom and reused the existing soaking tub. Freestanding, with a graceful curve and brass clawfoot legs, it only needed refurbishing to remain the centerpiece of the space. The other elements, however, had to be reworked or replaced. The original shower felt cave-like, she says. In its place now stands a glass-enclosed, marble-tiled version with a clever knee wall that includes a niche to keep practical items like shampoo bottles handy yet hidden. Handsome new maple cabinetry anchors the space’s otherwise light tones. The designers also reused some of the original kitchen cabinets, placing them in the newly constructed butler’s pantry. “That cabinetry was really high quality, it just wasn’t the style the homeowners wanted everywhere. When we created a dark, moody space with an awesome light fixture, we knew we could use the cabinets there,” Risinger says. “It really worked out well with the leathered granite countertops; they’re so handsome together.” The entire home is a testament to the homeowners’ love of color and willingness to use it in unconventional ways suggested by a talented design duo to create a home that fits their taste and lifestyle. “They really wanted to have color, and weren’t afraid to let us bring it in different places,” says Ware. “Color evokes so much emotion. You want your home to have those certain feelings, depending on what your desires are, so we really do try to match that.” January 2026 • athomemms.com | 35
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WareHouse Design started nine years ago, born from Lauren Ware’s work with home builders in the Atlanta area. “I have a business degree from Auburn University, but I had a boss who told me if I could match a shirt to pants, shoes and earrings, I could match cabinets to countertops, flooring and knobs,” she recalls, and so started her road to owning her own design firm. “I had many years of on-site training about design and renovations during that process.” Eventually, Ware moved to Memphis, where her business took off and thrived for almost a decade. She recently relocated back to Atlanta and successfully manages projects in both cities now in tandem with Jessica Risinger, WareHouse’s lead designer for the past three years. Risinger also came to the industry with a degree in business, but traces her design roots back to childhood. “I would move my furniture in my room all the time. It just was so fun to me,” she says. During a stint managing and designing for an antiques store she discovered Ware’s work and reached out to her. Ware soon invited Risinger to shadow her to learn more about the design process, and thus their working relationship started. “We’re so likeminded. It’s very collaborative,” Risinger says of how the two now work together. While Ware generally takes the lead on Atlanta jobs and Risinger primarily handles Mid South
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G E TAWAY
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G E TAWAY
THE ALLUVIAN HOTEL IN GREENWOOD, MISSISSIPPI TEXT BY KADI BALLARD
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G E TAWAY
January is the
month of fresh starts; new goals, new routines and new reasons to pause and enjoy life. After the rush of the holidays, there’s something especially appealing about slowing down, reconnecting with friends and stepping into a space that feels both indulgent and welcoming. For a group of girlfriends looking to escape the everyday and celebrate friendship in style, The Alluvian Hotel in Greenwood, MS, offers the perfect setting for a rejuvenating weekend getaway. Tucked into the heart of the Mississippi Delta, The Alluvian is more than just a place to stay; it ’s a full experience. From spa days and culinary adventures to fitness, cocktails and cozy, late-night conversations, a girls’ trip to The Alluvian blends luxury, laughter and local flavor into one unforgettable weekend. The experience begins with the first step into The Alluvian’s warm, art-filled lobby, as the outside world instantly softens its hold. Rooms are spacious and serene, designed with plush 42 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • January 2026
G E TAWAY
bedding , calming colors and thoughtful details that invite rest. Suitcases are dropped, robes are slipped on, and the official transition to “weekend mode” begins. Mornings on a girls’ trip may start slowly or energized, depending on the group’s mood. For those looking to stretch, sweat or shake off the travel day, Studio A offers a refreshing way to kickstart the weekend. This bright, modern fitness studio features yoga, barre and strength classes that meet participants where they are; formats range from full-body burn to gentle flow to ease into the day. Friends roll out their mats side by side, laugh through the hard parts and leave feeling both accomplished and connected. It ’s the perfect precursor to the indulgence that follows. No girls’ trip is complete without a spa visit, and The Alluvian Spa is the crown jewel of relaxation. Whether it ’s a signature massage, a results-driven facial or a blissful manicure and pedicure, the spa experience here is all about restoration. Soft lighting , calming scents and expert therapists guide guests into full unwind mode. For many, the spa becomes a highlight of the weekend: the place where shoulders drop, phones go silent, and deep, uninterrupted relaxation finally happens. It ’s not uncommon to hear friends exchanging quiet laughs in the relaxation lounge, wrapped in robes, reflecting on how rarely they slow down like this together. After a morning of movement and pampering , the energy turns from tranquil to playful with a visit to the Viking Cooking School. This hands-on culinary experience is one of the most unique bonding moments of the trip. Led by professional chefs, friends tie on aprons, pour a glass of wine and learn how to prepare everything from Southern classics to globally inspired dishes. The room fills with laughter, friendly competition and the irresistible aromas of a meal made from scratch. After class, the group gathers around the table to enjoy the fruits of their labor; proof that food truly has the power to bring people together.
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G E TAWAY
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Evenings at The Alluvian are made for dressing up, lingering over cocktails and savoring
exceptional food, and Giardina’s Restaurant delivers on every level. Known for its refined Southern cuisine and inviting atmosphere, Giardina’s is where the group gathers to celebrate the day. From handcrafted cocktails to beautifully plated entrées, each meal feels like an event. Conversations stretch long past dessert, laughter echoes across the table and the simple joy of being fully present with friends becomes the highlight of the night. Between spa appointments, fitness classes, cooking adventures and dinners at Giardina’s, there’s still time to simply enjoy the rhythm of the weekend. Mornings begin with coffee and stories from the night before, afternoons are filled with shopping in Greenwood’s charming downtown or lounging back at the hotel and evenings bring everyone together again. There’s no rush, no agenda; just the freedom to enjoy each another ’s company. What makes a girls’ trip to The Alluvian truly special is the way every experience feels thoughtfully connected without bouncing from place to place trying to fill the weekend. All the necessities; movement, wellness, dining , learning , rest and entertainment; are seamlessly woven into one beautiful destination. It ’s the kind of trip where memories are made naturally: flowing through yoga together at Studio A, laughing in spa robes, clinking glasses in the restaurant, cheering each other on in the cooking school kitchen and staying up too late talking in the hotel room. January is the perfect time for this kind of reset. After the hustle of the holidays, The Alluvian offers a chance to restore energy, strengthen friendships and begin the new year with intention and joy. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, planning an annual tradition or simply craving time away with the people who know you best, a girls’ getaway at The Alluvian is equal parts relaxation, movement, indulgence and connection. Sometimes, the best way to start the year isn’t with a resolution; it ’s with a weekend well spent, surrounded by friends, good food, restorative moments and a little bit of Delta luxury.
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T R AV E L
NAPA VALLEY UNCORKED: WHERE EVERY SIP TELLS A STORY
TEXT AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF B A R B A R A M AY, O W N E R O F T R A V E L L E A D E R S 46 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • January 2026
N e st l e d i n N o r t h e r n C a l i fo r n i a , N a p a Va l l e y u n fo l d s l i ke a l u s h e m e ra l d r i b b o n w e av i n g t h ro u g h s u n k i s s e d h i l l s a n d s p ra w l i n g v i n e ya rd s . Kn o w n w o r l d w i d e a s a s a n c t u a r y fo r w i n e l o ve rs , t h i s e n c h a n t i n g re g i o n o f fe rs m u c h m o re t h a n j u st w o r l d - c l a s s v i n ta g e s . I t ’s a p l a c e w h e re ro l l i n g l a n d s c a p e s , fa r m f re s h f l av o rs a n d a u t h e n t i c ex p e r i e n c e s c o m e a l i ve , i nv i t i n g e ve r y v i s i t o r t o s av o r l i fe ’s f i n e r p l e a s u re s w i t h e a c h s i p , b i te a n d b re a t h ta k i n g v i e w. F ro m t h e m o m e n t yo u a r r i ve , a s e n s o r y j o u r n e y b e g i n s . I m a g i n e st ro l l i n g a m o n g p e r fe c t l y l i n e d ro w s o f g ra p e v i n e s , b re a t h i n g i n t h e s w e e t a ro m a o f r i p e n i n g fruit kissed by the gentle C a l i fo r n i a s u n . T h e w i n e h e re i s c ra f te d w i t h p a s s i o n a n d p re c i s i o n , b l e n d i n g t i m e - h o n o re d t ra d i t i o n s w i t h i n n o va t i ve te c h n i q u e s . G i a n t s l i ke t h e Ro b e r t M o n d av i W i n e r y b e c ko n w i t h t h e i r r i c h h e r i ta g e , o f fe r i n g e l e ga n t ta st i n g s ste e p e d i n h i st o r y a n d re f i n e m e n t . M e a n w h i l e , s m a l l e r, fa m i l yr u n w i n e r i e s l i ke F ro g ’s L e a p p ro v i d e c oz y, i n t i m a te s e tt i n g s w h e re yo u c a n m e e t t h e v i n t n e rs a n d h e a r st o r i e s t h a t t ra n s fo r m e ve r y g l a s s i n t o a n a r ra t i ve .
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T R AV E L
Vineyard Field
N e st l e d i n N o r t h e r n C a l i fo r n i a , N a p a Va l l e y u n fo l d s l i ke a l u s h e m e ra l d r i b b o n w e av i n g t h ro u g h s u n - k i s s e d h i l l s a n d s p ra w l i n g v i n e ya rd s . Kn o w n w o r l d w i d e a s a s a n c t u a r y fo r w i n e l o ve rs , t h i s e n c h a n t i n g re g i o n o f fe rs m u c h m o re t h a n j u st w o r l d c l a s s v i n ta g e s . I t ’s a p l a c e w h e re ro l l i n g l a n d s c a p e s , fa r m - f re s h f l av o rs a n d a u t h e n t i c ex p e r i e n c e s c o m e a l i ve , i nv i t i n g e ve r y v i s i t o r t o s av o r l i fe ’s f i n e r p l e a s u re s w i t h e a c h s i p , b i te a n d b re a t h ta k i n g v i e w. F ro m t h e m o m e n t yo u a r r i ve , a s e n s o r y j o u r n e y b e g i n s . I m a g i n e st ro l l i n g a m o n g p e r fe c t l y l i n e d ro w s o f g ra p e v i n e s , b re a t h i n g i n t h e s w e e t a ro m a o f r i p e n i n g f r u i t k i s s e d b y t h e g e n t l e C a l i fo r n i a s u n . T h e w i n e h e re i s c ra f te d w i t h p a s s i o n a n d p re c i s i o n , b l e n d i n g t i m e - h o n o re d t ra d i t i o n s w i t h i n n o va t i ve te c h n i q u e s . G i a n t s l i ke t h e Ro b e r t M o n d av i W i n e r y b e c ko n w i t h t h e i r r i c h h e r i ta g e , o f fe r i n g e l e ga n t ta st i n g s ste e p e d i n h i st o r y a n d re f i n e m e n t . M e a n w h i l e , s m a l l e r, fa m i l y- r u n w i n e r i e s l i ke F ro g ’s L e a p p ro v i d e c oz y, i n t i m a te s e tt i n g s w h e re yo u c a n m e e t t h e v i n t n e rs a n d h e a r st o r i e s t h a t t ra n s fo r m e ve r y g l a s s i n t o a n a r ra t i ve . N a p a i s fa r f ro m a o n e - n o te ex p e r i e n c e , h o w e ve r. To t h o s e s e e k i n g s o m e t h i n g ex t ra o rd i n a r y, t h e va l l e y u nve i l s u n i q u e way s t o c o n n e c t w i t h t h e l a n d a n d i t s c ra f t . Pe r h a p s yo u ’ l l b l e n d yo u r o w n w i n e i n a h a n d s - o n w o r k s h o p , d i s c o ve r i n g t h e s u b t l e n u a n c e s t h a t d e c i d e a g re a t v i n ta g e . O r m ay b e yo u ’ l l ex p l o re t h e v i n e ya rd s o n h o rs e b a c k , fe e l i n g t h e e a r t h b e l o w w h i l e yo u a re s u r ro u n d e d b y n a t u re ’s m a ste r p i e c e . N A PA’ S D I S T I N C T T O W N S : A VA L L E Y O F P E R S O N A L I T I E S Ea c h t o w n w i t h i n t h e va l l e y c a r r i e s i t s o w n i d e n t i t y, o f fe r i n g t rave l e rs s o m e t h i n g u n i q u e t o f i t t h e i r st y l e a n d m o o d . N a p a ’s r i ve r f ro n t d i st r i c t b u rst s w i t h e n e rg y t h a n k s t o i t s c o l l e c t i o n o f ta st i n g ro o m s , a r t i s a n a l re sta u ra n t s a n d st y l i s h h o te l s . Yo u n t v i l l e , o f te n c o n s i d e re d t h e va l l e y ’s c u l i n a r y h e a r t , ex u d e s re f i n e d c h a r m w i t h 48 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • January 2026
T R AV E L M i c h e l i n - sta r re d d i n i n g , a r t- f i l l e d p a t h way s a n d p i c t u re s q u e st re e t s p e r fe c t fo r ro m a n t i c e ve n i n g st ro l l s . S t . H e l e n a o f fe rs a p o l i s h e d ye t re l a xe d a t m o s p h e re , b l e n d i n g b o u t i q u e s h o p s a n d b a ke r i e s w i t h s o m e o f t h e re g i o n ’s m o st i c o n i c w i n e r i e s . M e a n w h i l e , C a l i st o ga i nv i te s v i s i t o rs t o u n w i n d w i t h i t s g e o t h e r m a l h o t s p r i n g s , m i n e ra l - r i c h m u d b a t h s , a n d e a syg o i n g b o h e m i a n s p i r i t , p e r fe c t fo r t rave l e rs c rav i n g s e re n i t y a n d re j u ve n a t i o n . A C U L I N A R Y L A N D S C A P E T H AT C A P T I VAT E S T h e j o u r n e y t h ro u g h N a p a d o e s n ’ t e n d w i t h w i n e . I t s c u l i n a r y s c e n e i s a v i b ra n t ta p e st r y w o ve n f ro m t h e va l l e y ’s fe r t i l e s o i l a n d t h e c re a t i v i t y o f i t s c h e fs . At t h e p i n n a c l e sta n d s T h e F re n c h L a u n d r y i n Yo u n t v i l l e , a te m p l e o f ga st ro n o my w h e re T h o m a s Ke l l e r t ra n s fo r m s l o c a l i n g re d i e n t s i n t o u n fo rg e tta b l e ta st i n g m e n u s . Fo r a m o re re l a xe d fe a st , O x b o w P u b l i c M a r ke t p u l s e s w i t h l i ve l y e n e rg y a s fa r m e rs , b a ke rs a n d a r t i s a n s s h o w c a s e t h e re g i o n ’s f re s h e st f l av o rs . T h ro u g h o u t S t . H e l e n a , Yo u n t v i l l e a n d C a l i st o ga , h i d d e n b i st ro s a n d i nve n t i ve e a te r i e s b l e n d g l o b a l i n s p i ra t i o n w i t h t h e va l l e y ’s fa m e d fa r m - t o - ta b l e f re s h n e s s . Pa i r i n g N a p a ’s s u p e r b fo o d w i t h i t s c e l e b ra te d w i n e s i s n o t h i n g s h o r t o f p o e t i c . M a ny re sta u ra n t s c u ra te w i n e l i st s fe a t u r i n g ra re v i n ta g e s , a m p l i f y i n g e a c h d i s h ’s u n i q u e n e s s a n d c re a t i n g h a r m o n i o u s d i n i n g ex p e r i e n c e s . W h e t h e r yo u ’re s av o r i n g a b u tte r y C h a rd o n n ay b e s i d e f re s h l y c a u g h t f i s h o r a b o l d C a b e r n e t w i t h a p e r fe c t l y g r i l l e d ste a k , t h e re g i o n ’s d y n a m i c f l av o rs d a n c e t o g e t h e r i n p e r fe c t r hy t h m . E X T R AO R D I N A RY E X P E R I E N C ES B E YO N D T H E G L A S S To f u l l y i m m e rs e yo u rs e l f i n N a p a Va l l e y ’s c u l t u ra l r i c h n e s s , ex p l o re t h e m a ny o n e - o f- a - k i n d ex p e r i e n c e s t h a t g o b e yo n d t ra d i t i o n a l ta st i n g s . R i d e t h ro u g h v i n e ya rd s o n a g u i d e d w i n e s a fa r i , s a m p l e v i n ta g e s i n a t m o s p h e r i c c ave s i l l u m i n a te d b y s o f t c a n d l e l i g h t , o r s h a r p e n yo u r c u l i n a r y s k i l l s d u r i n g h a n d s - o n c l a s s e s a t t h e C u l i n a r y I n st i t u te o f A m e r i c a c a m p u s . E l e c t r i c b i ke t o u rs o f fe r s c e n i c r i d e s d o w n q u i e t c o u n t r y ro a d s b e fo re e n d i n g w i t h a v i n e ya rd p i c n i c f i l l e d o f c h e e s e , c h a rc u te r i e a n d c h i l l e d ro s é . O l i ve o i l a n d b a l s a m i c v i n e ga r ta st i n g s a t e sta te s l i ke Ro u n d Po n d o r L o n g M e a d o w R a n c h re ve a l ye t a n o t h e r l aye r o f t h e va l l e y ’s a r t i s a n c u l t u re . P r i va te re s e r ve ta st i n g s a n d exc l u s i ve c a b e r n e t c a b a n a s c re a te m e m o ra b l e , i n t i m a te m o m e n t s a m o n g t h e v i n e s .
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T R AV E L
R O M A N C E & L U X U R Y: N A PA F O R C O U P L E S Few destinations blend romance and luxury as effortlessly as Napa Valley. Couples can enjoy candlelit private dinners set in hidden vineyards, sunset photoshoots surrounded by sweeping hills, or indulgent spa rituals inspired by the region’s natural elements. Forest bathing sessions, mineral pool soaks, chef ’s table dinners and exclusive cave tastings elevate the experience into something magical. For a touch of vintage glamour, the Napa Valley Wine Train offers multi-course meals and curated tastings as its elegant carriages glide through the valley ’s iconic scenery, perfect for anniversaries, honeymoons or simply reconnecting. O U T D O O R A D V E N T U R E S & N AT U R A L B E A U T Y Beyond wine and cuisine, Napa invites visitors to immerse themselves in nature. Imagine drifting into dawn’s soft glow as a hot air balloon carries you over endless rows of vineyards, offering sweeping panoramas touched by golden morning light. Trails through BotheNapa Valley State Park wind beneath towering redwoods and along peaceful creeks ideal for hikers or cyclists longing for connection with the land. After an active day, the soothing hot springs of Calistoga provide perfect relaxation. W H E R E T O S TAY: R E T R E AT S T H AT R E F L E C T T H E VA L L E Y ’ S C H A R M Nestled among the rolling hills and famed vineyards, Auberge du Soleil offers an enchanting blend of Mediterranean-inspired elegance and breathtaking valley views. Guests enjoy beautifully appointed rooms, the acclaimed on-site restaurant serving local, Mediterranean-infused cuisine, a serene spa and an inviting outdoor pool, perfect for unwinding after a day of wine tasting. A modern, eco-conscious retreat, Bardessono Hotel and Spa in Yountville delights with its sleek, sustainable design, spacious suites with private decks, and indulgent spa experiences. Complemented by Bottega, a celebrated farm-to-table restaurant, Bardessono seamlessly combines luxury, environmental responsibility and culinary excellence, making both properties superb choices for an unforgettable Napa Valley stay. 50 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • January 2026
Wine Sampling Tour
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T R AV E L
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT & INSIDER TIPS
Timing can transform a Napa experience. Spring brings pastel blossoms and mild temperatures that make exploring a delight, while fall ignites the valley in golden hues and buzzes with the excitement of harvest season. Summer offers long , warm days perfect for outdoor tastings, and winter provides a quieter, cozier version of Napa with smaller crowds and more intimate experiences. To make the most of your trip, plan ahead. Many wineries and top restaurants recommend reservations four to eight weeks in advance. Pace yourself with no more than three tastings a day, and consider visiting on weekdays for a more relaxed vibe. Dressing in layers is essential, as mornings and evenings can be cool even in summer. Renting a car or joining guided tours ensures safe and easy transportation, and don’t overlook the smaller boutique wineries many of Napa’s most memorable stories and remarkable vintages are found off the beaten path. If timing aligns, festivals like BottleRock or the Napa Valley Film Festival add a vibrant cultural dimension to a visit.
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T R AV E L
T H E S O U L O F N A PA VA L L E Y Napa Valley transcends the ordinary; it ’s a place where passion meets patience, nature meets nurture, and memories are poured into every glass. Whether you find yourself watching the sun peek over the valley from a hot air balloon, swirling a deep ruby Cabernet in a sunlit tasting room, or savoring artisanal cheese beneath a canopy of vines, Napa promises an experience that lingers long after the last sip. In this extraordinary valley, every visit feels like the beginning of another story, one that invites guests to return again and again, discovering something new each time. Travel Leaders, owned by Barbara May, brings 40 years of travel expertise to crafting unforgettable journeys tailored just for you. Whether you’re dreaming of a Napa Valley escape or any other adventure, the agency ’s professionals can handle every detail, from booking well in advance to flexible payment options that make planning easy and worry-free. For more information or to book a trip, call Travel Leaders at 901.853.6200 or visit their new office at 1125 Poplar View Lane, Suite 3, Collierville, TN, 38017, open by appointment. January 2026 • athomemms.com | 53
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IN THE KITCHEN
Oyster Stew
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IN THE KITCHEN
O y s t e r s t e w w a s a l w ay s s om e t h i n g my d a d d y m a d e a f t e r t h e h o l i d ay s . Ev e n a s a s m a l l c h i l d , I re m e mb e r l ov i n g t h i s s i mp l e , s ou l - f e e d i n g d e l i c a c y. Wh e re I g re w up, f re s h oy s t e r s a re p l e nt i f u l , but t h e s hu c k e d on e s i n t h e g ro c e r y s t ore a re f i n e i f n e c e s s a r y. T h i s i s on e of my “t a s t e m e m or i e s” f or s u re . In g re d i e nt s 1 pt . s hu c k e d f re s h oy s t e r s , u n d r a i n e d 2 c up s m i l k Ko s h e r s a lt Fre s h l y g rou n d b l a c k p e pp e r 1 / 4 c up butt e r 1 s h a l l ot , m i n c e d 1 s m a l l g a r l i c c l ov e , m i n c e d 2 T b s p. a l l - pu r p o s e f l ou r ½ c up f i n e l y c h opp e d c e l e r y 1 c up h a l f - a n d - h a l f 2 T b s p. s h e r r y ½ t s p. Worc e s t e r s h i re s au c e Fre s h l e m on ju i c e D a s h of h ot s au c e ( s u c h a s Ta b a s c o ) Oyster crackers D i re c t i on s Me lt butt e r i n a l a r g e s au c e p a n ov e r m e d iu m h e at . Ad d s h a l l ot a n d c e l e r y a n d c o o k , s t i r r i n g of t e n , 4 m i nut e s or u nt i l t e n d e r. T h e n a d d g a r l i c a n d c o o k f or a n ot h e r m i nut e . Spr i n k l e f l ou r ov e r s h a l l ot m i x tu re a n d c o o k , w h i s k i n g c on s t a nt l y, 1 t o 2 m i nut e s or u nt i l c omp l e t e l y i n c or p or at e d a n d bu b b l y. G r a du a l l y w h i s k i n h a l f - a n d - h a l f , n e x t 3 i n g re d i e nt s , m i l k a n d oy s t e r l i qu or. B r i n g t o a b oi l , w h i s k i n g c on s t a nt l y. L ow e r h e at t o s i m m e r, a d d oy s t e r s a n d c o o k u nt i l t h e i r e d g e s c u r l , 1 - 2 m i nut e s . S e a s on t o t a s t e w it h s a lt , p e pp e r, a s qu e e z e of l e m on ju i c e a n d h ot s au c e t o t a s t e . I l i k e t o g a r n i s h w it h f re s h c h opp e d p a r s l e y a n d oy s t e r c r a c k e r s . It m a k e s a g re at app e t i z e r or i f s e r v e d w it h a l e a f y g re e n s a l a d , a c o z y m e a l . D on’t f or g e t s om e g re at bre a d or bi s c u it s !
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H E A LT H Y Y O U
New Year: Setting Intentions that Restore YOU! STORY BY MICHELLE JOHNS
MA, LPC-MHSP (TEMP), NCC, 200 HR E-RTY, 500 HR RYT
The
hav i ng the energ y fo r s i mpl e ta s ks l i ke walk ing sta rt of a new year br ing s a u ni que
at a no rma l pa ce o r even s pea k ing .
s e n se o f o ppo rtunity—to continue devel o pi ng i n ways yo u m ay have already star ted, to bui l d
Menta l Exha usti o n
up on a fo undation you may have laid, and to
Menta l exha usti o n i s feel i ng ti re d in
m i nd ful l y c ha nge things that deplete e nerg y a nd l e ave yo u exhausted. T he ultimate go a l i s to be co me the optimal version of yours el f, s o t hat yo u ca n show up wholehear tedly fo r a l l t he p e o pl e a nd in all the places that m atter most.
I re c e ntl y re ad a repor t hig hlighting the com pl exi ty o f the exhaustion many face. Peo pl e re po rte d fe e l ing some for m of exhausti o n phys i ca l l y, me ntally, emotionally and so ci a l l y. E x ha u sti o n no t only depletes energ y, it l eaves yo u fe e l i ng disconnected spir itually.
yo ur mi nd. It i mpa cts yo u emo ti on ally a nd co g ni ti vel y, creati ng a s ens e of b e ing over whel med by the s i mpl est thi ng s . I t ’s t he feel i ng o f sta ri ng at yo ur to - do l i st and n o t k nowi ng where to beg i n, when even m ak ing a pho ne ca l l feel s l i ke to o much .
Emo ti o na l Exha usti o n Emo ti o na l exha usti o n i s the feel i ng o f be in g dra i ned. Yo ur emo ti o na l res po ns es be co m e mi s a l i g ned wi th yo ur experi ences : you be co m e i rri ta bl e at a mi no r i nco nveni ence, fe e l num b i nstea d o f j oy f ul , o r have a pers i stent fe e ling o f bei ng di s co nnected f ro m peo pl e and t hing s
P hysical E xhaustion
yo u no rma l l y enj oy.
P hysi ca l exha ustion is more than just bei ng t i re d; i t ’s a l i n ger ing fatigue that settles deep i n t he bo d y. I t ’s the feeling of waking up mo re m or ni ngs tha n not and wanting to stay i n bed. On t he de e p e st l evel, physical exhaustion i s no t
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S o ci a l Exha usti o n S o ci a l exha usti o n i s the feel i ng o f not want ing to enga ge wi th peo pl e, ma rked by a co nstant
H E A LT H Y Y O U
l ongi ng fo r ti me alone. It becomes obv i o us w h e n yo u’re i n the company of others but f i nd your tho ughts a nd attention are on end i ng the conve rsati o n and wanting to escape; yo u’re disconnected.
Emo ti o na l exha usti o n o f ten co m e s f ro m i g no ri ng o r s uppres s i ng feel i ng s . A ge nt le way to reco nnect i s thro ug h a s ho rt, da i l y ref le c t io n . Perha ps yo u co ul d na me o ne expe r ie nc e that co ul d have go ne better fo r yo u and o ne
A s the new year rolls in, it ’s a good ti me to i denti f y whe re you feel exhausted and what you ne e d to re store. Reading the descr ipti o ns a bove ca n he l p you mindf ully consider how yo u fe e l . Mo st pe o pl e identif y wor k demands , fa mi l y de ma nds a nd social demands as factors that co ntri bute to bur nout and fatigue. O nce yo u
experi ence that went wel l fo r yo u . Take a mo ment to j o urna l a pa ra g ra ph o f what yo u fe lt phys i ca l l y a nd emo ti o na l l y i n ea ch ex pe r ie nc e . Na me what yo u wo ul d have l i ked to have be e n di fferent a nd what yo u a ppreci ated abo ut e ac h experi ence. T hi s i s n’ t a bo ut j udgem e nt ; it ’s a bo ut l i steni ng wi th co mpa s s io n.
have i de nti fi e d where you are depleted, ta ke s o m e ti me to ref lect on what contr ibutes to your exhaustion.
C reati ng ha rmo ny i n yo ur s o ci a l l i fe invo lve s f i ndi ng ways to enj oy ti me a l o ne a nd t im e w it h o thers . Ma ke s ure yo u pl a n fo r ti me alo ne as
The pl a n fo r restoration is two-fold: weav i ng s ma l l re sto rative practices into daily l i fe a nd pl a n ni ng l arger resets, like a restorati ve t r i p a few ti m es a year. Following are s o me key pra c ti c e s you mig ht incor porate to bri ng
wel l a s ti me wi th o thers s o that yo u can e nj oy co nnecti o n wi tho ut bei ng depl eted. I nste ad o f s ay i ng “yes ” to ever y thi ng , cho o s e o n e o r t wo s o ci a l i ntera cti o ns that yo u k now w ill b e life g i v i ng .
ha r m o ny i nto your spir it and take it with yo u i nto the spaces you engage.
A s yo u embra ce a new yea r, l et go o f t he pres s ure to bui l d a “new yo u” a nd e m brac e a
N ature i s a l l around, even in cityscap es . A s hort da i l y wa l k outside is a power f ul m ove. It nour i she s the b ody ’s need for movement, hel ps re g ul ate the sl e ep cycle by setting a circa di a n r hy t hm , a n d ha s a calming effect on the ner vo us
fo cus o f resto ri ng the i ncredi bl e pe rs o n yo u a l rea dy a re. Nurture yo urs el f wi th inte nt io nal pra cti ces that resto re the s o ul a nd co nne c t yo u mo re deepl y to l i fe wi th G o d, yours e lf an d o thers .
syste m .
To co unte r me ntal exhaustion, be intenti o na l w i th mo me nts of stillness and silence. S ta rt by setti n g a two-minute timer, f inding a
Michelle R. Johns, Owner MA, LPC-MHSP, NCC, 500 CYT
co mfo rta bl e se ated position, closing your eyes
Transforming Wellness, LLC
and fo c usi ng o nl y on your breath. Simply no ti ce
Germantown, TN & Oxford, MS
you’re bre athi ng. You could also sit and l i sten to i nstrume nta l music or gaze out a window.
www.transforming-wellness.com 901.258.3619 January 2026 • athomemms.com | 59
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J A N UA RY 2026 SOURCES HO M E F E AT U R E Special Thanks WareHouse Design warehousedesigntn.com Stefanie Rawlinson Photography stefanierawlinson.com
GETAWAY Special Thanks The Alluvian Hotel thealluvian.com
TRAVEL Special Thanks Travel Leaders 901.853.6200, 901.377.6600
HEALTHY YOU Special Thanks Michelle Johns mjohns@transformingwellness.com
IN THE KITCHEN Special Thanks Margaret Monger January 2026 • athomemms.com | 65
ON A GOOD NOTE
memphis heritage Founded in 1975, Memphis Heritage is the city’s leading nonprofit dedicated to preserving the historic architecture and cultural landmarks within the city of Memphis and Shelby County. The organization emerged at a time when many of the area’s most significant buildings were threatened by urban renewal and demolition. Since then, members have worked tirelessly to advocate for preservation, raise awareness about the city’s architectural legacy, and demonstrate how historic places strengthen community identity. Memphis Heritage operates solely on donations and memberships. The group offers informative lectures with wonderful speakers, tours of historic buildings, workshops that help teach about historic preservation practices, and great parties. It also maintains a critical database of the historic structures within the county. All this is done from their beautiful 1912 Midtown mansion, Howard Hall. In 1958 Hal Howard and his business partner, Caruthers Ewing, Jr., applied with the Planning Commission to tear down Howard Hall and build a 10-story apartment building. Residents of the surrounding East End District neighborhood were so opposed to the project it had to be scrapped. This was an excellent example of grassroots preservation at work. Decades later, Howard redid the mansion located at 2282 Madison Ave. but never lived there. The Eclectic-style house has been the home of Memphis Heritage since 2006, when he donated it to serve as the organization’s headquarters. Last year Memphis Heritage celebrated its 50th anniversary. To mark the milestone they repainted Howard Hall and redesigned their website. It will only be through donations and memberships that this group will be able to continue to protect the city’s irreplaceable heritage and inspire future generations to value Memphis’s unique sense of place.
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