Miss Mustard Seed

I am so honored that Marian took the time to do a guest post for me while Baby Spring is (still) waiting to make her debut. Marian and I worked together last year at Lucketts (and here), I’ve done some work for her (here), and she has been an inspiration to me in the blog world. She is the sweetest and there are a million and one things to admire about her. I thought it would be fun to do a little Q & A with her for you to get to know her better and be sure to check out her lovely blog when you are finished reading!The kitchen is one of my favorite spots. What is your best piece of advice when decorating a kitchen that people spend a lot of time in?

The kitchen has to be a functional space, so I think function is a good place to start!  Function can be beautiful, though, and it can work with any style.  I love finding ways to use antiques, which are my thing, in a functional way throughout the home, but especially in the kitchen.  I use an old locker basket to hold my paper towels and antique ironstone pitchers to hold my wooden spoons and serving utensils.  It’s those creative choices that make a space look customized and homey.What is your favorite piece in your kitchen right now?


I love the scale on my kitchen island.  It was too large to use in my last kitchen, but it’s perfect in this space.  I also am in love with my beefy gas range and my pot rack.

Large or small crowd of people, what is your best entertaining tip? (This can be geared strictly towards decor, food, or both!)

Get as much done ahead of time and leave as much for when they leave as possible.  I find it’s easy to get pulled away to busy myself in the kitchen or with clean-up and then I miss out on the fellowship.  They are there to see you, not your house.What is your favorite color (from your paint line or other) to incorporate in the kitchen?

White, definitely!  I am a big fan of white kitchen cabinets.  They are classic and timeless.  Blue is a close second for me, of course!Three random questions: What is a staple food in your kitchen? Do you have a favorite cookbook? What is your favorite meal to make?

  1. Fruit that’s in-season.  I get sort of OCD about stocking up on my favorites (Citrus in the winter, cherries in the summer, apples in the fall)
  2. I love the Better Homes & Gardens Cook Book (the red and white plaid one).  I got it for a wedding present and it’s my go-to when I need a recipe.
  3. I like making Italian dishes with pastas and pan sauces.  They are usually simple to make, but so tasty.