Good Morning, Darlings!

As any fan of design shows would know, Top Design is the ultimate contest. You all know Eddie Ross, and of course you know Kerry Howard. Remember our fun dinner party here?

Well, this time, we were the lucky ones to be hosted by our dear Kerry. I swear, if you met him, you would just want to eat him up with a spoon. He is that sweet.

And there were new friends to meet! You know how I love that.

First off, I know you are dying to hear all about Kerry’s place – fab. fab.fab. Everything is gorgeous – from the old church-inspired mirrors to the original art on the walls. It truly is a showplace. And of course, that fine design aesthetic made its way to the dinner table. I loved the cushioned bench that off-set the dining chairs.

But most of all, I loved the company.

Meet Maria.

Maria makes those adorable headbands – aren’t they the cutest? And jewelry, she makes jewelry, too! Our buddy Christy Annis from Peas for Prosperity joined us for dinner so the two of them had scads to discuss. I just loved Maria. Fun. Fun. Fun.

And then there was Bullett. And no, that is not a nickname, it’s a family name. Isn’t that cool? I love it! He is as sweet as can be, which is why he is Kerry’s special someone. Love them!

There is also new friend, Slean, owner of the swanky salon, Crimpers, who I need to visit, and soon (how did I go so long between styles?)

You know, of course, that my darling Eric was there, too (always so wonderful to take all the photos!)

Dinner was scrumptious. Before dinner, Kerry set out caprese salad and italian bread with a wonderful dipping oil. So tasty! Then it was on to stuffed shells and roasted asparagus, accompanied by a lovely fresh salad. The table held my favorite design detail of the evening.

And now for that special designer’s touch. Check out the decanters for the salad dressing.

Oh how I loved these tiny bottles. Kerry told us that he had been visiting this farm in Dublin, Georgia, when he spotted these in the barn. The owner had no use for them and encouraged Kerry to take what he wanted. Kerry, ever the southern gentleman, only took five. I would have loaded the trunk up.

That, my darlings, is what is called an “eye”.

As I had to be up at 4 a.m. the next morning to appear on CBS Better Mornings Atlanta (more on that tomorrow), it was all too soon time for dessert. Hummingbird cake! Time for some food porn!

Oh, how I hated for the evening to end. I can’t wait to do it again. Kerry Howard, you are the epitome of everything that is good and pure about living in the South. Love you!!

I would love to join you at Gupper when you have an extra spot!

xoxo, Patti

Today blogging to Jermaine Jackson – Daddy’s Home