Acorn Cottage: Spring in the Garden

 There is a specific kind of magic that settles over New Orleans when spring arrives. The air softens, the humidity hasn't quite reached its summer peak, and the entire city seems to exhale in a burst of jasmine-scented relief. At Acorn Cottage, this season is all about renewal—and, of course, getting my hands back into the dirt.

The Timeless Palette: Green and White

If you’ve followed my gardening journey for a while, you know my golden rule: Green and white is always right. There is something so crisp, clean, and effortlessly sophisticated about a monochromatic garden. It acts as a cooling balm for the eyes and provides a lush backdrop that feels intentional and serene.

A Pop of Seasonal Pink

However, rules were meant to be (slightly) broken! This year, I decided to stray from my usual script. To create a seamless flow from the porch to out in the garden, I’ve introduced light pink petunias into the mix.

These soft, ruffled blooms are the perfect bridge between the garden and the decor of the porch cottage. By pulling those delicate rosy hues from my indoor accents and planting them in the soil, the entire property feels like one cohesive, lived-in space.

With Easter fast approaching, the garden needed a little extra personality. Scattered among the new plantings, you’ll find:

• Boxwood Bunnies: Sitting in each cast iron urn, each bunny is tied with a light pink velvet ribbon. 
  
  
  
  
  
  

• Weathered Metal Eggs: Tucked into the foliage for a sophisticated "hunt." 

  
  
  

• Stately Metal Bunnies: Peeking out from behind the petunias, adding a touch of vintage charm. 

  
  
  

These metallic accents provide a lovely contrast to the soft petals and vibrant greenery, nodding to the holiday without feeling over-the-top. It’s a playful, elegant way to celebrate the season of rebirth.

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Garden Note: Whether you stick to the classics or experiment with a new accent color, spring is the time to let your home's personality shine through your landscape.

 

Happy Spring Planting!

Easter Blooms

 There’s something magical about the way the light changes in Louisiana during the spring. As we trade our St. Patrick's green for the softer hues of the season, I wanted my front entrance to bridge that gap between our beloved St. Patty's traditions and the fresh hope of Easter.

The Floral Crown: A Mardi Gras Remix

If you know me, you know my love for Mardi Gras flowers runs deep. Instead of packing them away for next year, I decided to give them a seasonal "glow-up." By focusing on a palette of crisp whites, soft pinks, and vibrant greens, these blooms took on a whole new life.

The secret to a "grand welcome" is all in the texture. By mixing different sizes and shapes, the arrangement above the door feels architectural and lush rather than flat. And for that whimsical Easter touch? I tucked a mossy rabbit right into the center of a giant bloom. It’s a little hidden surprise that brings a smile to everyone who walks through the door.

The Details: Boxwood & Gold

Moving down to eye level, I kept the foundation classic with a lush boxwood wreath. But as we know, the magic is in the accessories:

• The Wreath Sash: I am absolutely obsessed with this sash! It’s a curated mix of spring-colored ribbons that adds movement and softness.

• The Source: For my local friends (and those who shop online!), this gorgeous ribbon was a find from Red Onion in Baton Rouge. They always have the perfect curated pieces to elevate a DIY project.

• The Gilded Touch: To tie it all together, a gold-gilded rabbit sits nestled in the sash, adding a bit of sophistication and reflecting that beautiful morning sun.

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Design Tip: Don't be afraid to reuse your high-quality decor pieces across different holidays. A change in color palette or the addition of a small thematic element (like a mossy bunny!) can completely transform your look.

Welcome Home

This entrance feels like a breath of fresh air. It’s a nod to our local culture while fully embracing the bright, blooming season ahead. Whether you’re stopping by for Easter brunch or just passing through the neighborhood, I hope this decor offers a "grand welcome" to spring!

An Easter Doorway, y'all!

It's Beginning to Look Like... {St. Patrick's Day}

 As much as I adore the sparkle and spirit of Carnival, Mardi Gras season has officially come to a close at our home. Last week, I carefully packed away every last bit of purple, green, and gold—each ornament and bloom holding sweet memories of parades, gatherings, and festive evenings. There’s always a touch of nostalgia in the transition, but in true New Orleans fashion, we simply move on to the next celebration.

This weekend, I welcomed a fresh palette to our front porch as we prepare for St. Patrick’s Day. The rich greens and touches of white feel crisp and cheerful—like a breath of spring after the revelry of Mardi Gras. Our front door and window are once again dressed for the season, this time showcasing the colors of the Irish.

One of my favorite traditions is building my ever-growing collection of custom florals created by talented local artists right here in New Orleans. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted and full of personality—far more meaningful than anything mass-produced. Over the years, I’ve found so many treasures at beloved small businesses like Alice & Amelia and Home Malone, both located on charming Magazine Street. Supporting local makers and shop owners is something I truly value. Their creativity brings our home to life season after season.

On the front door, I layered in a preserved boxwood wreath accented with a ribbon sash inspired by St. Patrick’s Day hues from Red Onion. The rich greens paired beautifully with a striking gold clover emblem sourced from Blanc Box, adding just the right festive touch. The combination feels classic, fresh, and subtly celebratory—perfect for welcoming guests during this next season of gathering.

There’s something so special about marking each holiday with intentional decor—pieces that tell a story and reflect the heart of our region. As we trade beads for shamrocks, I’m grateful for another opportunity to celebrate, decorate, and continue supporting the small businesses that make our Louisiana communities so wonderfully unique. 

It's beginning to look like St. Partick's Day, y'all!