FIX Home and Garden Magazine

YOUR MID-SOUTH HOME AND GARDEN MAGAZINE

MAY/JUNE 2014

the

color

CHALK IT UP

THE NEW PAINT SENSATION EVERYONE IS TALKING ABOUT

ISSUE

SHOW US YOUR

GREEN

IT’S A GARDEN PARTY! IDEAS FOR ELEGANT OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING

THUMB Announcing

THE garden contest of the year

I

n the Midsouth, the name Ken

Garland is synonymous with quality.

Our family has built fine custom homes and

renovated existing homes for generations.

“TO THE LAST DETAIL” is our motto for a reason: from the foundation to the crown moulding, we oversee every detail.

For your new construction or remodeling projects, let us exceed your expectations.

2

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

Backyard BBQ. Pool party.

Patio happy hour.

You have the fun.

We have the furniture.

kenrashmemphis.com

Instant Party!

550 South Cooper, Memphis, TN 38104 Phone 901.274.6780

4

8150 Macon Road, Cordova, TN 38018 Phone 901.757.2465 M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

Mahogany Door Special!

36” x 80” 1-3/4” thick Mahogany with insulated glass.

350

$

00

Mention this ad for FREE local Installation may delivery. be priced separately.

M AG A Z I N E Fix magazine is dedicated to providing local information about all things home and garden.

EDITOR

Sara Patterson Shirley

patterson@commercialappeal.com CONTRIBUTORS

Sarah Matheny Gordon Emily Keplinger Erinn Figg PHOTOGRAPHY

LUMBER COMPANY

Jason Terrell Nathan Berry Brandon Dill

SINCE 1920

901.942.3201 Please visit our new website

www.gateslumber.com

JS n

FIX 495 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38103 901.529.6513 www.memphisfixmagazine.com

Marble & Granite

FIX is a bi-monthly magazine delivering essential local information on home design, remodeling, repair and restoration. It is published by E.W. Scripps Company. Opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors are not those of FIX. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

Copyright 2013.

Tell us what you think of FIX patterson@commercialappeal.com

FREE

For advertising information call

18 gauge Stainless Steel Under-Mount Sink 6

with each kitchen M A Y • order JUNE countertop

2014

901.529.6513

Let’s FIX Our Environment!

Recycle with city government 576.6851 ext. 1 or go online memphistn.gov.

Your Style Your Way

250 fabrics same low price

Style That Endures

nothing compares to the look and feel of Leather

72

Ask About Our

hour Happiness

There’s No Place Likee Home!

Guarantee on all in stock items Service beyond the sale!

877-303-1964 M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

7

BRICK, STONE & PAVERS: PATIOS, WALKS & DRIVEWAYS CUSTOM GUNITE POOLS & SPAS WATER FEATURES: PONDS, WATERFALLS & JARS RETAINING WALLS CUSTOM BUILT STRUCTURES DRAINAGE & EROSION SOLUTIONS FULLY STOCKED 5.5 ACRE NURSERY LANDSCAPE LIGHTING LANDSCAPE DESIGN BUILD

Give your yard the attention it needs to look this healthy.

VISIT OUR ONLINE STORE AT: GURLEYSGARDENPRODUCTS.COM

SERVING MEMPHIS & MIDSOUTH AREA FOR HALF A CENTURY 5567 WINCHESTER ROAD | MEMPHIS, TN 38115 | 901.794.7370

G U R L E Y S M E M P H I S . C O M 8

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

the

color

12

ISSUE

16 MAY / JUNE 2014

FEATURES 15 20 22 28 34 38

Show Us Your Green Thumb Chalk It Up Colorful Complements Calm, Cool, Collected The Secret To Working With Color Ultimate Kitchen Upgrade

DEPARTMENTS 12 Artist Spotlight: Karen Adams 37 Local Finds 41 Pinteresting 42 Pros Who Know: Good To Go 43 Why We Love Our Home 47 DĂŠcor Fix: Tea Party 48 Hospitality Fix

22 34 47

From The Editor

W

hat’s your favorite color? Such a simple question, but one I have trouble with. How can I name just one? I’m drawn to different colors at different times. Lately, I’ve been enamored with shades of turquoise and coral, but I am also loving mixed metals. I find

the combination of navy blue and cherry red rather bold and alluring, and I’m charmed by most pairings of pastel and primary colors. In this issue of FIX, we explored the use of color in homes across the Mid-South and the options available for color commitment-phobes such as myself.

Often, the most colorful and joyous parts of our homes aren’t indoors. In celebration of the beauty of Southern green spaces, FIX magazine is thrilled to announce the launch of this year’s “Show Us Your Green Thumb” garden contest. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors— Graham’s Lighting and Outdoor Living, Gurley’s Azalea Garden and Christie Cut Stone—we have more than $2,000 in prizes to give to this year’s winner.

To enter, simply email 5-10 high-resolution JPEG photos of your garden to me, at patterson@ commerciappeal.com. Include a description of your garden and your contact information in the email. Our panel of judges, including representatives from our sponsors and local gardening experts, will review each submission and choose a winner based on originality, variety of plants, use of hardscapes and ornamental elements, as well as overall design and atmosphere.

This year, we’re also seeking your input to crown our first “People’s Choice” winner. Look for voting details in your next FIX magazine.

We’ll announce our winners later this summer at a party at Graham’s, and the finalists will be featured in upcoming issues of the magazine.

If you have any questions about the contest, give me a call at 901-529-6513. I look forward to hearing from you and seeing the best of the best in backyard beauty.

Sincerely,

Like on

More photos, stories, events, and behind-the-scene info! facebook.com/fixmagazine

You Toss It, We Recycle It....

Going Green is as easy as EBOX

Construction + Demolition Waste • Recyclables • 901-850-9996 10 M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

Advertiser Directory FIX Home and Garden Magazine is free because of our wonderful advertisers and sponsors. If you visit one of these local businesses, let them know you saw them in FIX!

KEN GARLAND CUSTOM HOMES............................................... 2

CHESTNUT HALL FURNITURE AND INTERIORS...... 11

KEN RASH’S INC................................................................................................ 3

MAGNOLIA LIGHTING.................................................................................. 13

GRAHAM’S LIGHTING AND OUTDOOR LIVING............ 4

FIRST STATE BANK.......................................................................................... 14, 33

GATES LUMBER.................................................................................................. 6

SETH’S LIGHTING.............................................................................................. 27

JNS MARBLE & GRANITE....................................................................... 6

STANLEY STEEMER....................................................................................... 46

GREAT AMERICAN HOME STORE................................................ 7

VENICE TILE & MARBLE........................................................................... 46

GURLEY’S AZALEA GARDEN............................................................. 8

SUMMIT LANDSCAPES............................................................................. 51

EBOX................................................................................................................................. 10

CHRISTIE CUT STONE................................................................................. 52

Tasteful Interiors for 25 Years...

CHESTNUT HALL ),1( )851,785( ‡ ,17(5,25 '(6,*1

)RUHVW +LOO ,UHQH 5RDG *HUPDQWRZQ 71 ‡ ‡ ZZZ FKHVWQXWKDOO FRP

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

11

Artist Spotlight story by Sara P. Shirley • photos by Brandon Dill

KAREN ADAMS “I want it to be special when someone receives one of my cards in the mail,” Adams said. “In the online age, it’s nice to receive something tangible.”

Adams was born in Memphis but spent much of her adolescence in Tokyo, Japan. She graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design with a degree in fashion design and returned to Memphis in 1994. She started her business in 1999, and runs her Broad Avenue operation with co-owner and husband Ed O’Brien. Adams’ daughter, Wallace, handles the marketing.

Adams doesn’t operate as a retailer, but her products are available locally at Stovall Collection, Menage and RSVP Stationers.

The artist’s designs are playful, yet sophisticated. She creates cards, calendars, journals, notepads, stationary, paperweights, pencils and more. All of Adams’ paper products are made from recycled material and are printed and assembled in the United States.

“I like incorporating a little bit of humor and color in our products,” she said. “We offer good quality with levity.”

Karen Adams, of Karen Adams Designs, operates a stationary goods business in the Broad Avenue Arts District of Midtown Memphis.

E

ven with the modern advancements in e-mail and mobile communication, the exchange of printed cards and letters is still regarded as the means of communication most distinctive, personal and memorable.

Letter writing is an art, and the stationary designed

by Memphian Karen Adams is masterful. Her unique, whimsical collection of fine paper products makes her customers’ deliveries mean that much more.

12

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

Karen Adams’ personalized invitations are exquisitely detailed, down to the lining on the envelopes.

Where You Can

Afford Your Dreams

Karen Adams’ line includes notepads, journals, spiral notebooks (seen here), paperweights, pencils, invitations, gift boxes, place cards, greeting cards and more.

This unusual aesthetic has earned Adams a national audience and more than a few celebrity commissions. She designed invitations for Britney Spears’ 21st birthday and has also done holiday cards for Burt Bacharach.

When FIX visited Adams at her studio in April, she was working on a new line of “smell-good” erasers for adults with scents similar to those found in high-end candles.

“I like to go a little off the beaten path,” Adams said with a laugh. “Have a bit of fun.”

decorative accents ceiling medallions outdoor lighting designer pillows door hardware bath vanities chandeliers ceiling fans table lamps sconces mirrors art

An assortment of Karen Adams Designs products including Mini Be Brilliant notebook (front), Large Kraft Alphabet notebook (back), Helium greeting card right).

To learn more about Adams and to view more of her work, visit karenadamsdesigns.com.

Two Locations to Serve You! Hernando - 470 Hwy 51 North 662.429.0416 • M-F 8-5 • Sat 9-1 Oxford - 2206 B. West Jackson Ave. 662.236.0025 • M-F 8-5

Visit one of the Mid-South’s Premier Lighting Showrooms www.magnolialighting.com

Life Meets Banking

Stay in touch with your money With FREE Mobile Banking, FREE app for iPad, and even FREE MobileCheck Deposit, your life never misses a beat. Discover the incredible convenience of banking with First State by going to www.first-state.net and sign up now for any — or all — of these free services.

It’s our way of helping you meet life head on!

MEMPHIS 5384 Poplar Avenue 901-249-2000

COLLIERVILLE 3607 S. Houston Levee Rd. 901-853-5100

located in the Hobson Building directly across from Mercedes Benz of Memphis

Pictured L-R: Jonathan Bell, Dana Bu Burkett, Steve Weaver, and Ted Miller 14

A Yle to J U banking N E 2users.

0 1 4Approval subject to satisfactory banking history. Daily deposit limits apply, please Mobile Banking & MobileCheck Deposit are M available t • online ask for details. Funds deposited before 4:00 PM CST will be available next business day.. Data Da and messaging rates may apply, contact your wireless carrier.

ZZZ ÀUVW VWDWH QHW

Show us your Outdoor Living

WIN $2,192 IN PRIZES

m Send 5-10 photos of your garden to patterson@ commercialappeal.com. Get closeups and overall views.

Include a description of your yard with the photos. Some ideas: What are you most proud of? What was the greatest challenge? What kinds of plants, flowers, and trees have you cultivated?

Include name, physical address of the garden, contact phone number and e-mail address for garden owner.

o

o

Presented by

Representatives from each garden contest sponsor, as well as local garden experts The winner takes all - more than $2,000 in gift certificates and prizes from our contest sponsors, including: Christie Cut Stone Gurley’s Azalea Garden

Outdoor Living

$1,692 LANE VENTURE LOUNGE CHAIR

Graham’s Lighting amd Outdoor Living

Call Sara P. Shirley at No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. Begins 5/2/2014 at 12:01 a.m. CT and ends on 6/13/2014 at 5:00 p.m. CT. Winner to be announced on 7/31/2014. For Official Rules and complete details, go towww.commercialappeal.com/sweepstakes. Must be 18 years of age or older, a legal resident of and own a residential home in Crittenden county in AR; Desoto, Marshall, Tate, Tunica counties in MS; or Fayette, Shelby, Tipton counties in TN. One (1) Overall Prize: (1) $300 gift certificate to Christie Cut; (1) $200 gift certificate to Gurley's Azalea Garden; (1) Lane Venture Lounge Chair from Graham's Lighting (Total Prize ARV: $2,192). Restrictions and M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4 15 expirations dates apply. Sponsors: Memphis Publishing Company, d.b.a., The Commercial Appeal, 495 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38103; Graham's Lighting, 550 Cooper St., Memphis, TN 38104; Christie Cut Stone, 10455 Hwy. 64, Memphis, TN 38002; Gurley's Azalea Garden, 5567 Winchester Rd., Memphis, TN 38115.

GardenRETREAT

W

hat makes a great garden?

To enter, email photos of your

judging. The winner will be announced

Is it the soil or the light? The

garden to the Fix magazine editor at

at a party later this summer, hosted

variety of plants? The design?

patterson@commercialappeal.com.

by our presenting sponsor, Graham’s

Not exactly. While those factors

Include 5-10 high-resolution JPEG

Lighting and Outdoor Living.

play important roles in every home

images of your garden, and give us a

The deadline for entries is Friday,

garden, none alone make a garden

brief description of your work. What

June 13. And stay tuned because, this

“great.”

are you most proud of? What was the

year, we’re adding a people’s choice

But you do. Every garden, like its

greatest challenge for you along the

award! Details on how to vote will

keeper, is unique. And here at FIX

way? What kinds of plants have you

be included in your next issue of Fix

magazine, we think it’s important to

cultivated? Don’t forget to include your

magazine. If you have any questions

give these labors of love their due

name, age, address, phone number and

about the contest rules or how to

recognition.

email address in the submission so

enter, contact Sara Patterson Shirley

that we can contact the finalists!

at 901-529-6513 or email patterson@

In celebration of the creative beauty of Mid-South gardens, FIX is thrilled to

Local

gardening

experts

and

commercialappeal.com.

Last year’s garden contest yielded

announce our annual Show Us Your

a representative from each of our

Green Thumb Garden Contest. This

sponsors

The

great results. A wide range of entries

year, Fix and The Commercial Appeal

panel will consider originality, variety

showed the abundance, variety and

have joined to present the best garden

of plants, use of hardscapes and

beauty of Mid-South gardens. Join us

contest of the year, with more than

ornamental elements, as well as overall

as we revisit each of the 2013 garden

$2,000 in prizes from our sponsors.

design and atmosphere during the

contest finalists.

will

judge

entries.

2013 Finalist: Cheryl and Charles Allen, Memphis “The part we like the most is we did mostly everything ourselves,” Cheryl Allen wrote in her entry last Spring. The couple’s backyard has several seating options for optimal outdoor enjoyment. The garden contains a three-tiered fountain and there are bronze and stone statues strewn throughout. “We worked tirelessly from May to July,” Allen said. “But the result was outstanding to us. We enjoy sitting outside watching the hummingbirds, butterflies and fish in the large Koi pond.”

16

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

2013 Finalist: Lamar and Connie Black, East Memphis

One of the beauties of Lamar Black’s garden, he wrote in his entry, is that it requires very little maintenance. Ferns and hostas

cover most of the groundscape. Hydrangeas and other seasonals add splashes of color to the greenery and lightscaping allows the beauty of the garden to shine at night. The Blacks say they enjoy spending their evenings “sitting by the ponds listening to the cacophony of the many frogs that make our garden their home.”

2013 Finalist: Laura Renken, Eads

In her entry, Laura Renken mentioned that she lived in Eads, “just this side of heaven.” Renken retired to Eads in 2011 and

spent two years creating her outdoor oasis, she said. The result looks like something out of a fairy tale.

Whether it’s sunny, shady or somewhere in between, we want to know about the great gardens of the Mid-South. Help us spread the word! To enter, all you have to do is email photos of your garden with a description of your work and your contact information to patterson@commercialappeal.com. You have a chance to win more than $2,000 in prizes and a feature in an upcoming issue of FIX magazine. What are you waiting for?

Enter today!

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

17

2013 Finalist: Jason Lurie, Cordova

When Jason Lurie submitted his entry last Spring, he sent us 10 photos of his lush backyard garden. “There is a front yard, but

you limited it to 10 pictures max!!” he lamented. And if the front is anything like the back, we missed out.

2013 Finalist: Michael Lachina, Germantown

The award for best putting green goes to Michael Lachina of Germantown. Golfers aren’t the only ones who would enjoy

this gorgeous garden, however. There’s plenty of seating for plant enthusiasts next to the delightful Koi pond, which is accented with a bubbling waterfall.

18

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

2013 r e n n i W

Julie and Keith Patterson Julie Patterson dug deep to enrich the soil in her yard with enough nutrients to create and sustain an award-winning garden. A swing set into a wooden pagoda-like arch, surrounded by hydrangeas, is a focal point of the garden. The circular fountain surrounded by a stone walkway is another. Yet the vibrancy and variety of plant life throughout the garden keep the flowers the real stars of this Lakeland treasure. “(The garden) is my main enjoyment, my stress reliever,” Julie told us last year. “Everybody knows, when they come over, that’s where I’ll be. It’s just what I love to do.”

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

19

Chalk itUP Story by Sara P. Shirley Photos by Brandon Dill

H

ave you ever thought about painting

your

couch?

Unless

you’re familiar with chalk and clay

paints, this question might seem crazy.

But it’s exactly this sort of out-of-thebox painting possibility that is drawing do-it-yourself enthusiasts to chalk-based paint retailers in droves.

“The biggest advantage of these paints is that you don’t have to prep or prime furniture to start a project,” said Pam Whitfield of Magnolia Lighting.

“They aren’t advertised as fabric paints, but people use them for that, and the results are great.”

Whitfield first heard about chalk and clay paints several months ago from a customer. Curious, she looked into retail opportunities and saw a need in the market. Magnolia Lighting is now one of two retailers in the Memphis area to sell CeCe Caldwell’s line of chalk and clay paints.

Before the store acquired the new product, Whitfield and a few staffers took a class to learn about different techniques that can be used with the paints and finishes. The learning experience sold Whitfield on the value of the paints, she said.

“This paint is very forgiving,” she said.

“It’s not like you have to be extremely precise for it to turn out well. There’s a lot of flexibility. You can mix colors, layer them, and even use your brush to create texture.”

20

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

Kidney Table in Pittsburgh Gray and Vintage White.

Magnolia

Lighting’s

retail

color palette is inspired by and named

merchandiser, Midge Smith, now uses

after mountains, coastal areas, deserts,

the chalk and clay paint to freshen up

cities and rural towns across the

pieces of furniture in the store. The

United States. Popular colors include

pieces also provide tangible examples

Alaskan Tundra Green, Kentucky Mint,

of what the paint can be used for.

Carolina Sun Yellow, Santa Fe Turquoise,

“It’s so easy, anybody can do it,” Smith

Chesapeake Blue and Kailua Coral.

said. “You don’t have to be an artist, and

“If you want to add a pop of color to

it’s easy to clean up. If you get the paint

your home décor, and give something

on your clothes, or in your hair, you can

old new life, this is a cool way to be

just wipe it off.”

able to do that on your own,” Whitfield

One of the greatest things about

said. “We are here to help anyone who

the CeCe Caldwell brand paints, said

wants to use chalk and clay paint for a

Smith, is that they are made with

project, and we plan on demonstrating

natural ingredients. No Volatile Organic

techniques here in the showroom this

Compounds (VOCs), no toxins, no odor.

summer.”

The mineral paint is composed of a

For more information, call Magnolia

blend of clay, porcelain clay and chalk.

Lighting at 662-429-0416 or visit the

It has a creamy consistency and one

showroom in Hernando, Miss., at 470

coat can achieve desired results. The

Highway 51 North.

This wicker piece went from drab to shabby-chic thanks to a mix of Santa Fe Turquoise and Alaskan Tundra chalk and clay paint.

CeCe Caldwell’s line of mineral paints come in cool colors such as Santa Fe Turquoise, Kentucky Mint and Carolina Sun Yellow.

Midge Smith transformed this dining room chair (left) by applying a coat of paint to the entire chair—seat and all. To see the difference the paint made, look at the chair on the right.

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

21

interior inspiration

COLORFUL Complements Story by Sara P. Shirley Photos by Jason Terrell

W

hen Tara Sparks moved into her

East Memphis home in 2012, she knew just who to turn to

for design help.

Sparks’ sister, Ashley Toney, is an interior designer and owner of First Fruit Collection in Collierville. Toney’s store is known for its Country French style, and the staff specializes in custom home interiors,

design

services,

draperies,

fabrics and furniture.

When deciding on a color scheme for her home, Sparks said she knew she wanted a yellow bedroom but didn’t have her mind set on any other colors. Toney worked with her sister to find warm neutral colors for most of the walls and then brought pops of color into the home with accent pieces.

“The great thing about incorporating color with accents is that if you get tired

If your walls are painted in a neutral tone, window treatments can be used to add color and vibrancy to a room. Here, the yellows and greens in the patterned curtains bring warmth to Tara Sparks’ breakfast nook.

22

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

The rustic, refined style of Tara Sparks’ East Memphis home was conceptualized and brought to life by Sparks’ sister, interior designer Ashley Toney of First Fruit Collection. The walls of this room are painted in “Ramie,” a warm neutral.

Tara Sparks asked her sister, designer Ashley Toney, to use a barn door for a focal point in the master bedroom. Toney painted the door in a “Spiced Butternut” yellow and placed it on a track to use as a sliding closet door. Softer yellow accents bring layers of warmth into this happy room.

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

23

COLORFUL Complements of it, you can switch things out and have

throughout the house. In the dining room,

add warmth and charm. The only room

a completely new look without having

green placemats add a pop of color to

deviating from the color scheme is the

the table. In the living room, green can

game room, which is dedicated to the

be seen in a patterned accent chair,

University of Mississippi with pops of red.

floral arrangement, puppy portrait, end

The master bedroom is as bright and

In Sparks’ home, green accents

table and hanging cross. In the breakfast

fun as the sun. Soft yellow accents play

create a sense of balance and harmony

area, yellows and greens in the curtains

against the boldness of the bright yellow

to repaint,” Toney said. “You can bring color into a room with throw pillows, accent chairs, window treatments, lamps, paintings and other accessories.”

Green accents in Tara Sparks’ living room add color and life to the space, without overwhelming its inhabitants. A sense of balance is achieved with the highlighting of a single accent color. Here, the green chair, throw pillows, end table, floral arrangement, hanging cross and puppy portrait play off one another in a harmonious way.

24

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

COLORFUL Complements sliding barn door.

Overall, the style of Sparks’ home, which is dressed in gray with pops of yellow and green, is rustic, yet refined.

Green accents in the living room carry over to the foot of the staircase, where a Marc Chagall painting is displayed above an eye-catching end table.

Toney’s deliberate use of color created a bright, inviting atmosphere in her sister’s home.

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

25

COLORFUL Complements Tara Sparks’ game room is dedicated to her alma mater, the University of Mississippi, and incorporates her school’s colors into the room.

Interior designer Ashley Toney worked with warm neutrals to create a welcoming atmosphere in her sister's home. Toney (left) is featured here with sister Tara Sparks, and Sparks' dogs Toddy and Grizz.

26

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

r e m m u S o t e m o c l e W ! y a d o T n i e m Co SHOPPING FOR UNIQUE IDEAS, LIGHTING, HOME DECOR OR ACCESSORIES?

Major Markdowns on selected lighting fixtures, table lamps, gifts & accessories!

Picture for illustration only

SETH’S

Lighting & Accessories, Inc. 8250 Hwy 64, Bartlett, TN (across from Wolfchase Mall)

901-377-5222

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

27

interior inspiration

Calm, Cool, Collected

Story by Sara P. Shirley • Photos by Jason Terrell

The open design of Sally and Michael Johnson’s home provides plenty of seating options for entertaining, including at the kitchen bar. Granite used for the island countertop was also incorporated into the great room fireplace, adding to the flow of the home.

B

efore Sally and Michael Johnson

Catron, of Fresh Perspective Design and

“I’ve never seen another house like

moved into a new home in 2013,

Décor, to incorporate the same breezy

this,” Catron said. “I loved working with

they lived in a land of bold colors.

tones throughout the couple’s new

Michael and Sally because they know

Germantown home.

what they like. My job was simply to

The walls of their former home were painted in reds, golds, greens and blues,

“Sally brought me a seashell,” Catron recalled, “and said, ‘these are the colors

Sally said.

But when the couple moved in 2013,

I’d like to use in the house.’”

interpret their vision and present them with options.”

The openness of the home, which was

Sally decided the time had come for a

The shell, full of blues, tans and

built by Frank Ulhorn, made it necessary

toned-down interior. She loved the coastal,

mother-of-pearl shine, served as the

for the color and décor in each room to

cool color of her old master bedroom

inspiration for the fresh, bright and truly

work well together. Catron stuck with a

and worked with interior designer Lynne

original design of the home.

single paint swatch and made very slight

28

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

Michael and Sally Johnson's dining room opens into the living room and also draws light from the entrance hallway and side window. Designer Lynne Catron added a chandelier for a spot of bling and otherwise nicely balances the warmth of the mahogany table and chairs with the less intense colors of the distressed sideboard and Cat Tesla painting on the wall.

A modern bench paired with heirloom furniture in the guest bedroom gives a fresh feel to the room full of vintage pieces. The blue bedside lamps, which Sally Johnson found during her travels several years ago in Hong Kong, compliment the gray walls and silvery bedding perfectly.

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

29

Calm, Cool, Collected

The calming color of the master bedroom is echoed throughout the home, while brighter elements such as the mirrored dressers and crystal light fixtures add edge and excitement to the design.

Designer Lynne Catron’s attention to detail added interest to every corner of Sally and Michael Johnson’s Germantown home. The Tom Clifton painting done in four panels and mounted on hinges hides a flat screen television, while the large aquatic light fixture adds to the natural light coming in from the porch.

30

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

Calm, Cool, Collected variations to the cool, neutral grays used throughout the home.

The house’s abundance of light, both natural and artificial, brings out hints of color in the paint, which looks as though it has blue tints in some rooms and green tints in others.

Silver

accents

in

the

interior

furnishings create a modern atmosphere, while warm colors in artwork and other pieces keep the home from feeling cold.

One of the neatest features in the home is a paneled piece of art custom-made for the Johnsons by Midtown artist Tom Clifton. The painting serves as an foldable enclosure for the television in the great room. Another interesting feature is the kitchen banquette with booth seating and a silver breakfast table.

The walls of the master bathroom were finished with wax and shine when

The shell in the center of this bowl served as the inspiration for designer Lynne Catron, of Fresh Perspective Design and Décor, when she decorated the home of Michael and Sally Johnson of Germantown.

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

31

Calm, Cool, Collected the sun comes through the gray stained glass window above the bathtub. In the guest bathroom, a pendant chandelier casts a rainbow of colors onto the walls, and a silver vanity fits the color scheme beautifully.

“The home is classic, with a little edge,” Catron said. “We had fun with the light fixtures and the bathroom tile, and there’s even a little bling in the window treatments.”

One of the challenges Catron faced during this project was the incorporation of furniture, artwork and decorative elements from the Johnson’s former home into their new space. Fortunately, her expert eye for detail and fresh design aesthetic gave each piece new life.

“Everything works together,” Sally said. “I think the colors are very soothing and I love the way everything flows. It’s really different from the design in our old house. We love it. ”

The floral upholstery used in the kitchen banquette draws the eye as soon as one approaches and also acts as a warm contrast to the cool tones of the silver breakfast table.

32

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

Color in Sally and Michael Johnson’s guest bathroom is thrown on the walls by a crystal pendant chandelier from Magnolia Lighting.

The silver vanity sparkles in the light and gives the room a fresh feel.

Banking, Meet Life.

We have goals to accomplish, promotions to earn and debt to eliminate. We have new exercises to try, meals to cook and kids to tuck in at night. We have dreams to chase. And sometimes, there just aren’t enough hours in one day. First State Bank understands how busy each day can be. We are dedicated to providing easy and convenient solutions so that you never miss a beat. Here are five time-and money-saving banking solutions we offer our customers.

•

Free Checking. Activity fees? Monthly minimum balances? You don’t have time to deal with that. At First State, you can enjoy great services at a brown bag price. With no monthly service charges, no monthly minimum balances and no monthly activity fees, rest easier knowing your earnings will still be waiting for you in the morning.

•

FirstChecking + Interest. If you make at least 15 debit card purchases a month, have funds autodeposited into your account each month and use E-statements, you can earn an amazing interest rate on balances up to $15,000. On top of that, you can receive up to $15 in ATM refunds each monthly qualification cycle.

•

Free Mobile Banking. With First State’s free mobile banking, you can bank from any smartphone, anywhere,at any time. View your accounts, see recent

activity, transfer funds, pay bills and view checking images whenever you need. With First State, you have more power at your fingertips than ever before.

•

Free App for your iPad. With the First State Bank app for the iPad, you can bank on the go! Check you available balances, view account activity, pay bills, make transfers between your accounts, view e-Statements and locate your nearest financial centers and surchargefree ATMs—all from the convenience of your iPad.

•

Free MobileCheck Deposit. Point. Snap. Deposit.

With First State’s MobileCheck Deposit, you can use your smartphone or tablet’s camera to deposit checks anywhere, anytime. Simply point and snap a picture of the front and back of your endorsed check with your mobile device and deposit it using First State Bank’s MobileCheck Deposit.

It’s that easy and it’s free.

You’ll be thrilled at how easy First State makes banking.

It’s our way of helping you meet life head on.

Member FDIC. For full disclosure on each service listed, visit www.first-state.net.

For more information on mobile banking, M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4 33 please visit www.first-state.net/personal/mobile-banking.

THE

Secret TO WORKING WITH Color

TIPS FROM INTERIOR DESIGNERS STACY MCSPADDEN AND LANA ZEPPONI OF CHESTNUT HALL FINE FURNITURE AND INTERIORS

1.

When you’re working with color, everything needs to flow. Pick one or two colors to incorporate into your interior design and stay on point.

2.

If you aren’t sure where to begin, choose a favorite piece and work around it. Group different items together and see what looks best. Once you get a feel for what you like, you can use the same color groupings and go bigger.

3. Don’t

be afraid to be bold.

Contrasting colors (those on opposite sides of the color wheel) are extremely popular interior design choices.

Incorporate color into your home with small groupings. Switch pieces out to see what you like best. Here, a blue porcelain bulldog figurine, metallic boxed candle and small boxwood topiary play well with one another in a petite display.

34

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

4. Accessories are important. If you have neutral

walls and furniture, add pops of color with lamps, rugs, throw pillows and accent chairs.

5.

Think about texture. If you are working with a monochromatic palette, incorporate different textures into the room for a soft, blended look.

6. Mix metals. This is a great way to give a fresh feel to any pieces that feel dated.

Blue and white is a classic color combination.

In this display, the blues in an accent chair are coordinated with the blues in a set of porcelain vases. The sunburst mirror gives a fresh feel to this classic arrangement.

This chinoiserie chest of drawers is a great example of an accent piece that could be used to bring a fresh pop of color into the home.

Here, a red lamp works well with the chest because it draws from the touches of red paint on the piece. The texture of the boxwood adds a layer of interest to the display.

7.

Draw inspiration from others.

Seeing more of what’s out there will help you figure out your own style aesthetic.

8. Don’t

be afraid to ask for help.

That’s what we’re here for.

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

35

You’ve trusted us with your carpeting for years.....

Let us be your Area Rug Specialist!

STANLEY STEEMER SERVICES Fine Area Rug Cleaning

S

tanley Steemer has cleaned area rugs in customers’ homes for years. In our constant search for better ways to service our customers, we now utilize a “submersion” cleaning process.This is the same process that the makers of area rugs in Persia and throughout Asia use to flush the rugs of dirt and excess dyes before shipping them to market.

The process involves complete submersion of your area rug and gentle cleaning which flushes the fibers.

This process is manually intensive and time consuming, but it allows us to remove the most dirt and contaminants from the rug.

When it comes to area rugs, don’t settle for anything less than a professional rug cleaning. Why?

• Because we can give you a more thorough cleaning process that can remove the dirt that lodges inside the foundation yarns of an area rug.

• It’s also the best process to remove the odor caused by pet ‘accidents’ and other contaminants • We have a safer cleaning process that involves thorough testing of the chemicals we use overnight to guard against the colors bleeding in your rug.

• With our process, we have a much faster drying time that helps protect against browning and we will hand groom and clean the fringe to bring back the original beauty of your rug.

Call us today to arrange pick-up of your area rugs!

1-800-STEEMER (783-3637)

Local: (901)751-8111

1250 Big Orange Road 36

Memphis, TN 38018

Independently owned and operated

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

ColorCATALOGUE From throw pillows to accent chairs to gorgeous lamps, here are a few of our favorite local finds.

5 2

3

4

1

Sunset Tribal Chair

2

Assorted Throw Pillows

3

Scrimshaw Table Lamp

4

Bronze and Orange Retro Table Lamp

$1,500

Magnolia Lighting (662) 429-0416

$165-$289

Chestnut Hall Fine Furniture (901) 753-8515

$495

Chestnut Hall Fine Furniture (901) 753-8515

$395

Lampshade House (901) 767-3220

5 1

Freedom Rider Metal Bicycle Sculpture

$185

Lampshade House (901) 767-3220

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

37

ULTIMATE KITCHEN Story by Sara P. Shirley Photos by Nathan Berry

Upgrade Easy-to-clean travertine flooring flows from the kitchen into the living room, and around the fireplace, adding cohesiveness in the home’s interior design.

T

he renovation of Shirley and Dennis Garner’s kitchen literally started from the ground up.

Last year, when the tile on the kitchen

floor in the Garners’ Lakeland home started to peel, the retired military couple turned to their neighbor, Dottie Petrilak, a designer at Kitchen’s Unlimited, for help.

Petrilak

soon

learned

after

a

consultation with the Garners that the 38

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

floor wasn’t the only problem.

in the back of the cabinets to find things,”

“We bought the house in 2004, and

Shirley Garner recalled. “We needed to

my wife had never liked the kitchen,”

replace the floors, but I knew I wouldn’t

Dennis Garner said. “It was dark and

be happy with the kitchen until we made

claustrophobic.”

some real changes.”

The kitchen cabinets were brown, the

About five months after the couple’s

appliances were black, the counter space

initial meeting with Petrilak, Kitchens

was limited, the room was dimly lit and a

Unlimited completed a budget-friendly

lack of storage space had forced Shirley

transformation that created an open,

Garner to use an oven as a pantry.

bright, stylish and functional living area.

“I used to have to get down and crawl

“We didn’t make any structural

Organizational features built in to the Garners’ custom cabinetry help the couple use their space more efficiently.

The “cinnamon spice” granite countertops pair beautifully with the Garners’ creamy cabinetry.

changes,” said Petrilak, “but we really focused

on

where

everything

was

and tailored the design to the way the Garners live.”

Gone are the dark cabinets, old appliances and peeling floor. In are travertine floors, custom cream-colored cabinets with an antique finish and a large island with ample, double-sided storage. Light from recessed cans brightens the room and under-cabinet lighting highlights the beauty of the warm “cinnamon spice” granite countertops.

Several organizational features were incorporated into the cabinetry and thoughtfully placed in accordance with the Garners’ needs.

The slotted knife

drawer, corner-cabinet Lazy Susan, incabinet spice rack, pull-out trash can,

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

39

ULTIMATE KITCHEN

e r o f e b

Upgrade

deep pots-and-pans drawers and upgraded ventilation system have made a real difference in the way Shirley Garner uses the space, she said.

And the travertine used for the floor now carries through to the fireplace in the living room, adding to the flow of the home.

“I love it, I really do,” Shirley Garner said. “It’s such a joy to be in here now, and we get so much more use out of this space.”

The new island in the Garner kitchen gives the couple more counter space to use for food preparation and more storage space than they had before renovation.v

40

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

Pinteresting

Pushing BUTTONS

By Sara P. Shirley Photos by Jason Terrell

For my latest Pinterest-inspired project, I decided to lean on various arts-and-crafts boards for thought. I stumbled upon several art projects using buttons in place of paint. The concept seemed budget-friendly and simple enough, so I went to a local sewing store and bought a couple packs of buttons in various colors. I also bought a few different mediums to work with—canvas, wood and card stock—and glue.

When I got home, I got my supplies out, pulled up some of my favorite Pinterest designs and tried them on my own.

Here’s what I came up with.

The Button Tree.

This little design was as easy as they come. I started by staining a small, $2 wooden plaque obtained from the crafts store. While the stain dried, I pulled brown and green buttons out of my bag to use for the tree. I started at the bottom, and used different sized buttons to create the trunk. When I got to a mid-way point, I switched to green buttons and glued them in a semicircle above the trunk. And just like that, I had my first button tree!

Button-Embellished Cards.

If you’d like to send a card with a personal

touch, this is a fun, easy and fast way to do so. For the cards, I began with blank card stock paper. I then made a few cutouts and glued them onto the cards to help guide my button placement. One was a heart, one was a pear and the last was a small circle to be used in a sun design. For the heart, I grabbed as many pink and red buttons as I could find and glued them right onto my paper heart cutout. For the pear, I used blue buttons for the fruit and added a few green buttons to create the essence of a leaf. For the sun, I glued several cream-colored buttons onto my circular cutout and then used orange buttons to radiate from the core. Each card took around 10 minutes to complete.

Elephant holding Button Balloons.

This was one of the more youthful designs I found on the web, and I tried to keep it kid friendly with a brighter selection of buttons and the addition of glitter to the canvas. I started this one by making an elephant-shaped cutout. I found an easy-to-draw elephant stencil online and just copied that. Then, I covered my cutout in silver spray paint, knowing my buttons wouldn’t fit perfectly into the elephant lines. I used blue buttons for the elephant’s body and used a white button for the eye. I glued a blue sequin onto the eye button to complete the look. After the elephant was finished, I took a few of my largest buttons and glued them in a bundle above the elephant’s trunk. Then, I used a bit of white paint to draw the balloon strings. After that, I sprayed the canvas with hairspray and threw glitter on top to finish.

Happy Pinning!

FIX Tip: Looking back, I wish that I had used stronger glue in a clear color so that I could have layered buttons on top of one another. The more buttons you use, the more interesting the piece becomes. If you are using regular glue, as I did, be prepared for a few splotches to ooze through the buttonholes. I think rubber cement would have served me better than regular glue.

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

41

Pros Who Know

MAKING YOU E

‘Good to Go’

veryone knows that packing up

Story by Emily Adams Keplinger

personal items, whether for a move, remodeling or home repairs, can

be an overwhelming experience. Enter Janine Willis, president of Good to Go Home Packing and Senior Moves. She has made a business out of being in other people’s business. And her presence is welcomed.

can be put away quickly with the use of

just unpacking boxes, we try to help the

these visual guides.”

clients really get settled. We’re like their

If the situation involves a move, Good

personal welcoming committee We find

to Go will help the homeowner determine

the coffee pot and get the coffee brewing,

what to take and what to donate or pass

set up lamps and lighting, and set up

on to others. Once that step is completed,

the bathroom and kitchen essentials.

Good to Go then begins carefully sorting

Everything right down to making the

Armed with a team of up to 10 people

and packing all items that are making the

beds for the homeowners. We try to do

available to work on a single move, Good

move. Tricks of the trade include color-

whatever it takes to make it a comfortable

To Go takes pride in attention to detail.

coded labels to facilitate the sort and sift

first night for the homeowners in their

“Good to Go offers their services

process. Homeowners are given a set of

new abode.”

turn-key and a la carte,” Willis explained.

labels to indicate which items are going

“We allow homeowners the choice of how

to be moved and which are not. The

much or how little they would like to have

company not only provides the labor but

done for them. Because the company

also brings its own packing supplies and

has 10 people available on the team,

boxes.

we require little advance notice, and can

An average job requires packing in

accommodate most requests. Unlike

one day, moving on the second day, and

traditional moving companies, we pack

unpacking on the third day. Willis and her

with the 'unpack’ in mind. For instance,

team will handle all of the steps, leaving

we group and label items to make the

the homeowners free to deal with other

unpacking process much smoother. We

moving details, like reconnecting utilities

even take pictures of how items were

and cable.

originally arranged to make it easier to set

“Our moving coordinators assist with

them up again. Items like the contents in

unpacking on the arrival day at the new

china cabinets, bedside tables and desks

location,” Willis said. “And more than

Unlike traditional moving companies, we pack with the ‘unpack’ in mind.

Janine Willis, Good To Go And if the homeowners are moving out of town, Good to Go can still help.

As a founding member of the national Association of Senior Move Managers, Willis has colleagues to partner with in various cities.

When the company was founded over 13 years ago, it went by the name of Seniors Moves, Inc. to indicate a specialty in working with the elderly. But Willis soon found her methodology and personal service were prized by others who wanted to call on her expertise.

"People with young children and those with demanding jobs also found themselves in need of moving assistance,” Willis said. “And an emerging trend is the clients who need to pack up items during renovations or household repairs. Good to Go come can to their rescue as well.”

For more information about Good to Go, contact Willis at (901) 753-6683, or visit goodtogomemphis.com.

42

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

why we love our home Todd Tigner and Becky Powell Smith love their Harbor Town home.

HomeView A

W

Story by Erinn Figg • Photos by Brandon Dill

WITH A

hen Becky Powell Smith and

the siding was rotted — pretty much

Todd Tigner first saw their

everything in the house was ruined.”

2,100-square-foot townhouse,

Fortunately, two better people couldn’t

have decided to rescue it.

Smith grew up in Lepanto, Ark.,

and inherited her mother’s passion for

it stood out like a sore thumb among the other distinguished, well-manicured properties of Harbor Town.

The house had been abandoned and neglected for some time, and to say that it had fallen into a state of disrepair would be putting it mildly.

“It was in really bad shape,” Tigner said. “The railings were falling off, and the balconies were dilapidated and weren’t even safe to walk on. It had a roof leak, so there was a lot of mold inside the house.

The countertops and windows were bad,

Todd and Becky enjoy opening the master bedroom doors in the mornings so they can eat breakfast while viewing the river.

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

43

HomeView A

WITH A

like. The location was unbelievable, the size was just what I was looking for, and I wanted to live in that community, so it seemed like finding that house was fate.”

The necessary renovations were so extensive that it was almost like building a house from scratch, Tigner said.

“We basically gutted the house.

We had to redo the hardwood floors.

The ceilings were falling in because of the water leak. We tore out and rebuilt the kitchen island. We put in all new

Becky and Todd welcomed the challenge that came with the purchase of this Harbor Town home, which had fallen into disrepair. Extensive renovation work provided them with their dream home. Photo provided by Becky Powell Smith. renovating and restoring old houses.

Meanwhile,

and

and skills could transform the eyesore

president of Memphis-based Diversified

into something remarkable, the couple

Builders, a company with a 33-year

snatched up the property and got to work.

history

of

Tigner

notable

is

founder

Knowing that their combined vision

residential

appliances. We even had to replace one of the exterior walls because it was rotted and termite-infested.”

With help from a sizable construction team from Diversified Builders, the work took about three months. Smith purchased the home at the end of December 2012 and the couple moved

and

“The house didn’t scare me like it

commercial projects throughout the

would some people,” she said. “It was in

The finished product is now an open,

region.

bad shape, but I knew what it could look

airy space with striking river views from

in the following April.

Everything in Todd and Becky’s home has been renovated, from the floors to the windows to the kitchen.

44

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

HomeView A

WITH A

Todd loves the porches on both floors and the view of the Mississippi River they afford him.

Talk about a room with a view. Becky and Todd enjoy watching the Mighty Mississippi from the balcony of their Harbor Town home. Photo provided.

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

45

HomeView A

the kitchen, the front porch, the second-

WITH A

floor bedroom balcony (now safe for walking) and the small home office on the third level.

“It’s almost like I’m on vacation as soon as I get home from work,” said Smith, a vice president at Ritter Communications.

“It’s just automatic stress release to go home, sit on the patio and watch the barges go by and the people running. I just love it.

To showcase the views, the couple replaced the original windows with highefficiency vinyl versions that also save them money on their utility bill.

“I like the windows we put in because when we want privacy, we can close the blinds, but with all the blinds open, it’s almost like one big Florida room,” Tigner said. “We also like that the kitchen and the living room flow together now, and we

Todd was ready to take down the yellow wreaths on the front door but couldn't do it after he realized a bird had built a nest in one of them. It's got five eggs incubating now.

love the bathroom and the natural stone.”

Throughout the home, the couple wanted to create a natural look with plenty of granite and stone. The master shower,

for

instance,

incorporates

STONE · TILE · MARBLE · GLASS · Designers & Experts on Staff · Quality Materials & Competitive Prices · Endorsed by Architects & Interior Designers

frameless glass with travertine tile; the fireplace is surrounded by granite; and the new kitchen island, where the couple eats most of their meals, has a granite top.

As for Smith, her favorite part about their home is living in Harbor Town and enjoying the community with her loved ones.

“I love it when my grandkids come over because we can play in the yard or walk down by the river and have a picnic,” she said. “It’s unbelievable how nice everybody is. You can get in your golf cart and go up the road and go to several restaurants and hang out. I just love it.”

VENICE TILE & MARBLE

SHOWROOM

The finest selection of quality stone and tile from around the world.

YOUR SATISFACTION IS OUR PRIORITY! 46

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

3665 S. Perkins, Suite 1, Memphis, TN 38118

venice-tile.com | 901-547-9770 Monday - Friday 8 - 5 · Saturday 8 - 12

DECOR FIX

Colorful Children’s TEA PARTY Dress your table with a

fresh bouquet of flowers arranged in a teacup centerpiece.

Tips and photos courtesy of My Perfect Party

To make your guests feel special and you relaxed, serve

an assortment of brunch finger foods you can purchase from the grocery store such as miniature muffin, fruit and fancy chocolates.

Reuse your décor. Use

these fanciful, oversized teacups are decoration in a little girl’s room. They are perfect for holding school supplies or hair accessories.

Paper flowers add a touch of whimsy. When

you’re finished outside, liven up a drab wall by grouping these together for extra impact.

More information: With a little help from Anne Canale and Karen Eskin, your perfect party awaits.

The two friends started their business, “My Perfect Party,” after discovering they share a knack for pulling together casual events that look like over-the-top affairs. For more information, tips and entertainment ideas, visit www.myperfectparty.com.

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

47

HOSPITALITY FIX Recipes by Sarah Matheny Gordon

A

Grown Up PICNIC

How to Pack for an Adult al fresco Dining Experience

W

ith Spring in full swing, many

would pair well, so consider the setting

come stocked with melamine plates, cups,

people are anxious to spend

of the meal. Basking in warm sunshine

and utensils; alternatively, disposable

time outdoors relishing the fair

at Overton Park may call for a chilled

plates and utensils mean fewer items to

weather. Warm sunshine paired with a

white wine or rosé, whereas a medium-

full calendar of outdoor concerts and

bodied red wine like a Syrah or a red

festivals offer many opportunities for

wine blend may be better suited for

dining al fresco in the Bluff City. To “dine

dancing under the stars at a concert at

al fresco” simply means to “eat outdoors,

the Botanic Gardens.

in the open air”, or what we in the South

cups are sufficient, but polycarbonate

forget

call a picnic! There are two components

(unbreakable) stem-less wine glasses

opener if needed, and bags to collect and

to creating an enjoyable al fresco dining

are a great investment if you enjoy dining

dispose of refuse. Finally, remember to

experience: the menu and the supplies.

al fresco throughout the season.

bring a blanket or quilt to spread out. A

Ordinary plastic

keep up with and a lighter tote at the end of the meal. Include ice packs or frozen water bottles (which can be consumed once thawed) to keep food cool. Don’t napkins,

a

corkscrew/bottle

First, pick a menu consisting of items

Once the menu has been decided

that are easy to transport, tidy to eat with

upon, select the picnic basket vessel

ones hands, and not likely to spoil. The

and contents accordingly. Consider the

following menu for a Cured Meat and

distance to the picnic spot; for longer

Cheese Tray with Roasted Red Pepper

distances, a beach bag, backpack, or

Hummus meets these criteria beautifully.

cooler with a strap is easier to manage

The beverage that will be served should

than a traditional picnic basket with wicker

compliment the other foods on the

handles. Identify what plates, cups, and

by dining al fresco on this Cured Meat

menu, not just be an afterthought. For

utensils are needed, as well as serving

and Cheese Tray with accouterments and

the following recipes, almost any wine

dishes and utensils. Many picnic baskets

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus.

48

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

vinyl tablecloth is a great option to protect against damp Spring soil.

This Spring, whether admiring the prolific buds and blossoms at Dixon Gardens or watching the sun set over the Mississippi River, elevate the experience

CURED MEAT AND CHEESE TRAY WITH ACCOUTERMENTS Building a fantastic cured meat and cheese tray is easy. Personalize it by choosing from among the components below (some examples of each are listed). Many of these items are readily available at grocery stores.

Cheeses (select 3-4 of varying texture) llSoft-ripened: brie, camembert, triple cream

Note: When packing

llSemi-firm: cheddars, Gruyere, Gouda, Manchego, Edam, Monterey Jack

the picnic basket, layer

llFirm and/or Aged: aged white or yellow cheddars, Romano, Parmigiano

ice packs and/or frozen

Reggiano, young Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano llBlue: Cambozola, Cashel bleu, Danish bleu, Gorgonzola, Roquefort, Stilton, Maytag blue llFresh (fresh cheeses need to be kept slightly cooler and may be messier for an al fresco setting): goat cheese (chevre), fresh mozzarella, ricotta, Feta

Meats (select 3-4)

water bottles on the bottom, followed by any chilled wine, then fresh fruit wrapped in a dishtowel or paper towels to protect from bruising,

llProsciutto, Bresaole, Lardo

then cheeses and meats.

llSalame, Sopresatta, Coppa, Pepperoni

If a sharp knife is needed

Bread and crackers llBaguette (whole or sliced), Ciabatta bread llStone-ground wheat crackers, water crackers, multi-grain crackers, etc.

Accoutrements (All of these are excellent additions; select

ones that work for your setting. Often, accouterments can be found in specialty cheese section.)

to slice fresh fruit or aged cheese, choose one with a sheath or wrap the blade in a dishtowel for safety. Bring a cutting board, which can double

llOlives, any type

as a tray or serving piece,

llFresh fruit –pears, grapes, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, crisp apples, figs

and extra zip lock bags

llDried fruit – apricots, cherries

for leftovers. Toothpicks

llNuts – Marconi almonds, pistachios, candied pecans, walnuts

are great for self-serving.

llFruit preserves, chutneys, honey

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

49

HOSPITALITY FIX

ROASTED RED PEPPER HUMMUS

INGREDIENTS 2 red bell peppers

Directions Position an oven rack at the

skin is blistered and blackened.

Remove pepper strips; carefully

highest position in the oven. Set

place them into a glass bowl and

2 cans chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed

oven to broil and allow to preheat

cover tightly with plastic wrap. Allow

while preparing the bell peppers.

peppers to sit until they are cool

1/3 cup tahini

Lay peppers on their sides and

enough to handle, and then using

1/3 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice

cut tops off of each pepper. Slice

your hands, remove skin from each

long-ways into four wide strips and

pepper.

2 cloves garlic, smashed and roughly chopped

remove ribs and seeds from the

1 teaspoon salt

inside.

Place peppers skin side-up onto

Add roasted red peppers and all remaining ingredients to a food processor. Puree until thoroughly

1 teaspoon olive oil

a baking sheet and place in oven.

combined and very smooth, about

olive oil, lemon juice, fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Roast for 4 ½, rotate pan, and roast

three minutes, stopping to stir after

for another 3-4 minutes until the

each minute.

Note: This recipe is also fantastic when created with roasted garlic, caramelized onions, or roasted tomatoes instead of roasted red peppers. Roasted red peppers from a jar may also be substituted (use about 3/4 - 1 cup, to taste).

50

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

CREATING OUTDOOR

LIFE STYLES

Call for your free consultation and 3D custom design.

8555 Macon Road I Cordova, TN 38018

(901) 517-5197 www.summitlandscapes.com

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4

51

CUSTOM LANDSCAPE DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION PLANTS | PATIOS | OUTDOOR STRUCTURES & ARBORS | FIRE PLACES | OUTDOOR KITCHENS

The Largest Selection of Stone in the Memphis Area

• • •

Brick Building Stones Limestone

Christie Cut Stone is dedicated to providing our customers with limestone millwork and a variety of natural stones, both domestic and imported.

10455 Hwy 64 Memphis, Tennessee 38002 7am to 4:30pm M-F 9am to 1:00pm Sat (P) 901.382.6242 (F) 901.382.6215

Same Day Delivery 52

WWW.CHRISTIECUTSTONE.COM

M AY • J U N E 2 0 1 4