Cooking at home is such a big part of our family rhythm, and over time, a few recipes have earned permanent spots in the rotation. They’re the ones everyone looks forward to — simple enough for weeknights, but still special enough to make again and again.

Whether it’s a cozy fall night or a busy weekday dinner, these five recipes are the ones I come back to the most:

Skirt Steak with Chimichurri

Fresh, flavorful, and full of color — this is one of those dinners that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together quickly. The chimichurri adds just the right amount of brightness, and it’s so good with grilled veggies or roasted potatoes.

Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken

Crispy, tangy, and full of flavor. This recipe feels a little fancy but couldn’t be easier. I love the creamy lemon sauce — it’s the kind of dish that works for a weeknight dinner but still feels special enough for company.

Spicy Vodka Pasta (Finley’s Favorite)

This one’s a family favorite — Finley asks for it on repeat. The sauce is creamy, spicy, and comforting in the best way. It’s quick to make and pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

Honey Lime Chicken Enchiladas

Sweet, tangy, and full of flavor — these enchiladas are such a crowd-pleaser. The honey-lime combo is so good and adds a fun twist to a classic comfort dish.

Butternut Squash Lasagna

Our friends introduced us to this recipe years ago, and now it’s a fall tradition. They make it every year for our neighborhood block party, and it’s become one of those dishes that everyone looks forward to. Rich, cozy, and a little unexpected — it’s the perfect seasonal dinner.

Every year, I find myself reaching for the same few things. Timeless pieces that feel thoughtful, personal, and beautifully made. They’re the gifts I’ve given (and received) countless time,s and they never miss! Whether it’s something soft and cozy for a friend, a monogrammed classic for the hostess, or a little luxury that makes everyday life more lovely, these are my tried and true favorites that always feel just right.

My Go-To Gifting Favorites

Chappywrap Blanket

The coziest gift imaginable. We snuggle up in these cozy blankets on the sofa and even take them in the car to sporting events. They wash beautifully, hold up year after year, and are perfect for anyone on your list.

Lake Pajamas

Classic, soft, and endlessly wearable. Lake pajamas are the kind of gift that turns an ordinary evening into a ritual. I love gifting them because they feel like a little moment of calm in the chaos of everyday life.

Monogrammed Wine Tote

Equal parts practical and pretty. I bring mine to dinner parties, beach picnics, and more. Add a favorite bottle of wine and it becomes an instant hostess gift that feels thoughtful and personal.

Longchamp Bag

A timeless staple that somehow suits every season and every age. It’s polished enough for travel and durable enough for everyday life. I’ve carried mine for years. It’s one of those gifts that truly gets used.

Monogrammed Toiletry Bag

A small luxury that makes mornings and travel feel put together. I love pairing these with travel sized favorites.

Match South Prints

For the sentimental at heart, these prints capture favorite places with such charm. I’ve given them to friends who have moved away, newlyweds, and family members. They always feel personal, meaningful, and so easy to style in any home.

At the end of the day, the best gifts are the ones that feel personal. The small details that say, I thought of you. Add a bow, a sprig of greenery, and a handwritten note, and you’ve got a gift that feels every bit as meaningful as it is beautiful.

I always love putting these posts together — they’re a mix of practical finds, cozy wardrobe updates, and little home details that make everyday life feel a bit more pulled together. September felt like a fresh start in every way — kids back to school, routines settling in, and a few new pieces that just made sense for the season.

Here’s what I bought and truly loved this month:

The Coziest Sweater

One of my all-time favorites. It’s one-size, and I have it in multiple colors. It’s perfect when you need something easy to throw on — looks great with jeans or shorts. I grabbed one in red this month to wear to my kids’ games (their team color!) and always get compliments on it.

The Coffee Maker Upgrade

This coffee maker was a total game changer. I finally retired my Keurig, and I can’t believe I waited this long. It grinds the beans fresh and brews the perfect cup every single time.

Ranch Teddy Cardigan

Soft, cozy, and perfectly oversized — the kind of cardigan you’ll live in on cool mornings or relaxed weekends.

Closet Hooks

A small but mighty Amazon find. These hooks are perfect for organizing scarves, belts, and bags — anything that tends to get lost in the shuffle.

New Denim

The fit is so good — polished but relaxed. I love a fresh pair of denim going into fall, and these instantly became a new favorite.

Black Cashmere Cardigan

Simple, classic, and timeless. A black cashmere cardigan always feels right — easy to layer and instantly elevated.

Olive Tweed Jacket

A forever piece. The olive tweed feels sophisticated yet wearable — perfect with denim or over a dress.

Velvet Hangers

Swapped out all my old wood hangers for these, and I can’t get over how much space I saved. My closet looks cleaner and more uniform — totally worth it.

Pale Blue Lamps

A subtle, elegant touch for the living room. The pale blue color feels fresh and soft — they instantly pulled the space together.

New Pillows

Nothing changes a room faster than new pillows. These added just the right amount of texture and warmth to our living space.

This Vase

Such a pretty shape — I’ve been using it with fresh hydrangeas from the yard. It’s simple but makes everything feel a little more intentional.

That’s everything from September — a mix of home updates, wardrobe staples, and a few things that just made everyday life run a little smoother. As always, I love sharing what’s really worth it — pieces that are beautiful and practical.

1. Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili

Cozy, hearty, and a little lighter than the traditional version. I usually top mine with avocado, shredded cheese, and tortilla chips for crunch — everyone in the family loves it.

2. Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken

Bright, flavorful, and a nice break from heavier fall meals. I love that this recipe tastes fresh but still cozy, and it makes the best leftovers for salads and sandwiches the next day.

3. Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Sweet, savory, and so easy to throw together. This one is a weeknight lifesaver — I usually serve it over rice with a side of roasted veggies, and the kids always go back for seconds.

4. Slow Cooker Italian Beef (Mississippi Pot Roast)

Rich, tender, and full of flavor — I pile this onto sub rolls with melted provolone, and it’s one of my kids’ absolute favorites. It also works beautifully served over mashed potatoes for a cozy dinner at home.

5. Slow Cooker Steak Fajitas

Tender steak with peppers and onions, ready to wrap in warm tortillas with all the toppings. I love to set this out buffet-style so everyone can build their own — easy, fun, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Fall always feels like the busiest season, but these slow cooker recipes make dinner one thing I don’t have to stress about. If you don’t already have a slow cooker, this is the one I use — and I can’t recommend it enough. Here’s to more cozy, stress-free dinners this season!

When I think back to my very first years of decorating — as an intern in college, living in a tiny apartment and saving up for little things that made my space feel more like home — I smile at how many of those pieces have truly stood the test of time. At the time, I wasn’t shopping with the mindset of “timeless” or “investment pieces.” I was drawn to things that felt elegant, personal, and elevated, even on a budget. And interestingly enough, those early finds are still the same elements I reach for today.

Timeless Decor Pieces I Still Love

Over the years, I’ve layered in new pieces, upgraded in some areas, and shifted my style a bit, but these classics remain constants in every home I’ve lived in. They’re versatile, chic, and proof that you don’t need to chase every new trend to create a space that feels both personal and polished.

Silver Trays

One of my very first “grown-up” purchases was a vintage silver tray from a local antique shop. I loved how it instantly elevated whatever it held, from perfume bottles to barware. To this day, I still use trays all over the house — they bring order, style, and a touch of shine that feels endlessly chic.

Black and White Photos in Frames

Printing photos at CVS or Walgreens was always easy and inexpensive. Framing favorite family snapshots or travel pictures instantly made my walls and shelves feel intentional and stylish. I still believe nothing adds character to a home faster than black and white photos grouped together in a cute frame.

Glass Hurricanes with Candles

Candles have always been my weakness, but placing them inside glass hurricanes was a trick I picked up early on. It adds height, presence, and a soft glow that feels sophisticated. Whether clustered on a mantle or set in the middle of a dining table, hurricanes make even a simple candle look special.

Coffee Table Books

I remember splurging on my very first coffee table book, feeling like it was such a luxury. Little did I know, they’d become one of my favorite styling tools. They add personality, color, and texture, while also reflecting your interests. I still love stacking them under objects, scattering them throughout the house, or displaying one open to a beautiful page.

Roses in Mint Julep Cups

This little trick never fails me: pick up a bundle of grocery store roses, cut them short, and tuck them into a silver mint julep cup. I learned it from watching Southern hostesses growing up, and it’s one I’ll never stop using. It’s a small gesture that feels polished but never fussy.

Crystal Pieces

Whether it was a vase I was gifted or candlesticks I found at a thrift shop, crystal was one of those materials I always gravitated toward. It catches the light and adds sparkle, whether styled on its own or mixed with modern pieces. I still love sprinkling little crystal touches throughout my home.

Marble Bowl

Last but not least, the marble bowl. Heavy, classic, and endlessly versatile. I’ve used mine for fruit, keys, or simply as a sculptural accent. It’s one of those pieces that looks good no matter where you place it.

It’s funny to look back and realize that the very first pieces I chose — when I was just starting out and finding my style — are the ones that have lasted the longest. They’ve moved with me from college apartments to family homes, always feeling just as relevant and chic. For me, that’s the best part of decorating: mixing old and new, layering in what you love, and realizing that timeless pieces only get better with age.

First impressions matter, and your home’s exterior sets the tone before anyone even steps inside. I’ve found that even the smallest updates can make such a difference. Whether you’re welcoming guests, listing your house, or just want to make everyday arrivals feel a little more special, these are five simple ways I love to elevate curb appeal:

1. Update Your House Numbers

One of the quickest swaps I’ve made is changing out house numbers. A clean, classic font instantly feels more polished and makes the entry look intentional.

2. Upgrade Hardware

I always notice hardware first — from the front door handle to the mail slot. Swapping in antique brass details feels substantial and timeless, instantly elevating the look of your entry.

3. Add Planters for a Touch of Greenery

I love the charm planters add outside. Whether it’s a woven basket planter or a classic blue-and-white ceramic pot, filling them with seasonal blooms or simple greenery always makes the entry feel welcoming.

4. Swap Out Lighting

For me, lighting is one of the most impactful changes. A lantern-style sconce by the front door brings warmth and character while also making the entryway feel cozy and safe.

5. Layer in Textures

I’m a big believer in finishing touches — a chic doormat,a fresh mailbox, or a decorative knocker can change the whole feel. Natural textures like a woven rug add personality and a sense of style right at the doorstep.

I love that curb appeal doesn’t require a full renovation. A few thoughtful updates can transform your entryway into a space that feels welcoming, stylish, and uniquely yours.

For more outdoor inspiration, I have several blog posts about updating our porch seasonally and our design plan for updating our backyard.

Our Fall Front Porch

Our Front Porch in the Spring

Patio Refresh for Spring

Backyard Plans with Yardzen

I spent a few days in Charleston this fall with Erin and the Navy Bleu team while shooting my new collection, and it turned into such a fun little getaway. Between capturing content, catching up with friends, and wandering the charming streets, we managed to sneak in some incredible meals and discover a few local gems. Charleston is one of those cities that always has something new to offer, yet it feels timeless each time you return.

Where We Stayed

We checked into The Palmetto Hotel, and it couldn’t have been a better home base for our trip. The Palmetto feels quintessentially Charleston — elegant yet approachable, with interiors that mix historic charm and modern polish. The lobby is the kind of place you want to linger, with beautiful design details and a welcoming atmosphere, and the rooms are plush and thoughtfully designed, the perfect retreat after a busy day.

The location was one of my favorite parts — right in the historic district, which meant we could walk almost everywhere. Whether it was slipping out for coffee in the morning, heading to a shoot, or grabbing cocktails at sunset, everything felt close by. The Palmetto struck the perfect balance between tucked-away charm and being right in the middle of the action.

A Visit to The Dunlin

One afternoon, we made the short drive out to The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection, for lunch and a walk around the property — and it instantly went on my list of places I’d love to return to for a longer stay. Nestled along the Kiawah River, it feels worlds away from the bustle of downtown Charleston, with sweeping marsh views, a slower pace, and the kind of Southern coastal setting that makes you want to exhale and linger.

Designed by Amanda Lindroth, the interiors are every bit as inspiring as the setting: airy, fresh, and layered with the sort of coastal charm she’s known for. Natural textures, playful details, and perfectly chosen colors make the spaces feel both relaxed and elevated. I left wanting to bring a little piece of that home with me — I’ve been scheming about what I could paint at home in the gorgeous farrow and ball breakfast room green used throughout the property. It was one of those design details that stuck with me and made the whole space feel grounded in the landscape.

Even just spending a few hours at The Dunlin gave me a glimpse of what makes it special: thoughtful design, incredible food, and that signature Auberge sense of place. It’s the kind of property that would be perfect for a quiet weekend escape, and I can’t wait to go back and experience it more fully.

Where We Ate

Charleston’s food scene is reason enough to plan a trip, and we were lucky to hit a few favorites:

• 167 Raw – A Charleston staple with some of the freshest seafood around and a lively atmosphere that’s always buzzing.
• Citrus Club – Perched on top of The Dewberry, this rooftop has the best views in the city. Sunset cocktails here are a must.
• Sorelle – A newer spot that feels instantly timeless. Cozy, elegant, and one of those meals you’ll think about long after.
• Slightly North of Broad (SNOB) – A true Charleston classic, blending Lowcountry flavors with an elevated, welcoming atmosphere.

Where to Shop

Charleston has no shortage of charming shops, and wandering King Street (and the surrounding neighborhoods) is always a highlight. A few favorites worth popping into:

• Hart – Colorful, playful accessories and jewelry that add a little fun to any outfit.
• Beau & Ro – A lifestyle boutique with clothing, handbags, and accessories — they even have their own line of beautiful woven bags.
• Madison Mathews – Known for their easy, breezy block-print dresses that are perfect for the Lowcountry climate.
• Lake Pajamas – The softest, chicest sleepwear, born in Charleston and loved everywhere.
• Croghan’s Jewel Box – A true Charleston institution for fine jewelry and heirlooms, tucked inside a pink townhouse.
• Juliska– The most beautiful shop full of timeless tableware, glassware, and home pieces that make everyday meals feel like a celebration.
• Etu Home – Thoughtfully designed European-inspired home goods and kitchen pieces that make the perfect souvenir.
• Julia Amory – A stop for timeless block-print clothing and tabletop linens that feel as at home in Charleston as they do by the beach.
• And of course, I carried my Breck and Grier tote — it fit right in on Charleston’s colorful streets and was perfect for shopping days.

On My Radar for Next Time

A few days is never enough in Charleston, so I already have a running list of spots to try next:

• Breakfast & Coffee
  • Harken
  • Babas on Cannon
  • Second State Coffee
  • Harbinger
  • Weltons Tiny Bake Shop
• Restaurants
  • Leon’s
  • Chez Nous
  • Vern’s
  • Chubby Fish
  • Renzo
  • Post House (Mount Pleasant)
• Winebar and Drinks
  • Seahorse Bar (a new speakeasy)
  • Graft
  • Tippling House
  • Babas on Cannon (I have heard they have a great aperitif)

What to Pack

Charleston’s charm calls for easy, polished pieces — think breezy dresses, comfortable shoes for wandering, and a tote that transitions seamlessly from day to night.