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If you have been following along on Instagram (or insta-stories for that matter) you may have seen a teensy tiny announcement of mine. Okay, a huge announcement! I shared earlier this spring, but now that it’s officially official – I’m so excited to tell y’all that I’ve been selected by Southern Living magazine as one of their 2019 Tastemakers!
I will never ever forget the feeling I felt upon opening my inbox to see the sweet letter, invitation, and recognition from Betsy Cribb, Southern Living’s style editor. I practically fell out of my chair then proceeded to call my Mama 13,293 times until she answered the phone. I still feel pretty speechless about it! Not only is becoming a Southern Living Tastemaker such an amazing honor, but to be grouped amongst so many sweet, stylish and inspirational women is an incredible privilege.
Today, I’m sharing a bit behind the article, how we celebrated the September issue in Charleston and my thoughts on being named as Southern Living Tastemaker of 2019. Scroll down for more below!
A Snippet from Southern Living September Issue
You can check out the entire article here or see in this month’s print issue on newsstands now. There is also an amazing letter from the editor, Sid Evans, in the first few pages of the issue that dives deeper into our day of Southern-style discussion that took place at the SL offices this past February.
Throughout the year, I’ve gotten to know many of the women grouped with me (and pictured above) on a much deeper level and it has been such a blessing! From clothing designers, jewelry makers, artists, and fashionistas alike, the passion these women have put into their creations has inspired me in so many ways. It is truly amazing to see these strong Southern women thriving in their own businesses while supporting and sharing their love for Southern culture along the way.
Celebrating in Charleston
In anticipation for the September style issue, a few weeks ago Southern Living reached out once again to invite the group of 2019 Tastemakers to Charleston to celebrate. I can’t resist a visit to Charleston on any occasion so I jumped at the chance to attend this special day.
We all got together at Belmond Charleston Place and then strolled King Street popping in quintessential Charleston boutiques such as Hampden Clothing, Croghan’s Jewel Box, Lake Pajamas, and Ibu Movement. Our group was able to meet with boutique owners and hear the Southern brands’ stories behind their businesses. It was truly an inspirational (and fashionable) afternoon!
Stylish for a Night Out South of Broad
Later that evening, Southern Living toasted the September issue with a lovely soiree at the home of Susan Hull Walker, another fellow Southern Living tastemaker and the woman behind Ibu Movement. The team from Explore Charleston was in attendance along with several of the shop owners that we had met previously that day. Susan’s historic home was one of the most beautiful Southern homes I’ve ever stepped foot inside!
It was no wonder that during our carriage tour of the city the next day, the architecture of Susan’s home was called out by our guide. The party was held in her beautiful pre-revolutionary Charleston Single House. I’m not sure which captivated me more – the home’s architecture and history or the incredible decor styled by Susan herself!
Dressed Up to Dance the Charleston!
I put quite a bit of thought into picking out the perfect outfit for this special occasion. It’s not every day that Southern Living invites you to a party and I wanted to dress to the nines for the occasion! I opted to wear this romantic floral dress by LoveShackFancy. This brand’s timeless silhouettes and feminine boho pieces really resonate with me and I knew I would feel just as fabulous as I would feel confident wearing it out.
PS: I also managed to find LoveShackFancy’s Angie Dress on super sale – which was quite the bonus as this isn’t a brand that I can justify shopping on the regular. If it strikes your fancy too, I’d recommend sizing down for the perfect fit.
As a Southern Living Tastemaker, I Plan to…
For one, I hopefully live up to the title for you all! As I said, I still am so flabbergasted by this wonderful honor and recognition. I strive to share the things that inspire me the most on here, whether it be a stylish outfit, a new spot I found in my hometown or a city guide to having the best weekend getaway ever. I am a spontaneous soul who is always up for new adventures and I can’t resist sharing whatever I find with you all.
Now that we’re planting roots in Memphis, I’m thrilled to bring you all my take on Southern home decor while also exploring a new-ish-to-me-again part of the South. I am constantly inspired by the places that surround me. Pieces of our life in Texas and my love for Tennesse’s rich history will certainly show up in the projects we plan to incorporate into our new home as well. It would mean so much for you all to continue to follow along with my everyday adventures in style on Lone Star Looking Glass. Thank you for the fun-filled ride it’s been so far – I’ve loved every minute!
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Photos by Kim Graham
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xo, alice
