115

CONTENTS
11
Feather Your Nest
13 Timeless Tartan
15 Merry and Bright Botanics
19 Market Finds

23
Home Sweet Home
25 Old Memories, New Life
33 Christmas Magic
43 Southern Cottage Charm
55 Collected Traditions
67 Small Gestures
77 A Whimsical Wonderland
77 83
Cottage Kitchen
85 Home for the Holidays
89 Holiday at the Table

93
Garden Pleasures
95 Les Fleurs
101 Tips for Trimming the Tree

103
Artists & Artisans
105 A Handmade Heritage
109 Wooden Roots

111 Crescent City Christmas

113 Credits & Resources

on the cover
Photography by Mac Jamieson
Styling by Sidney Bragiel

25
55
 Volume 10, Issue 5

EDITORIAL
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Phyllis Hoffman DePiano
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Cindy Smith Cooper

MANAGING EDITOR Katie Ellis GROUP CREATIVE DIRECTOR

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Bethany Adams Deanna Rippy Gardner
ASSISTANT EDITOR Hannah Jones ART DIRECTOR Jodi Rankin Daniels
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Dorothy Walton
SENIOR COPY EDITOR Rhonda Lee Lother
SENIOR ST YLIST Sidney Bragiel
CONTRIBUTING ST YLISTS
COPY EDITOR Meg Lundberg
Emmy Hobbs, Margaret Lloyd,
CONTRIBUTING WRITER Tovah Martin
Amy Wilson
CREATIVE DIRECTOR/PHOTOGRAPHY
SENIOR DIGITAL IMAGING SPECIALIST
Mac Jamieson Delisa McDaniel
SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER
DIGITAL IMAGING SPECIALIST
John O’Hagan
Clark Densmore
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jim Bathie, William Dickey, Nicole Du Bois,
Stephanie Welbourne Steele
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jennifer Bakos, Paul Broussard,
Kindra Clineff, Zack Smith,
Julie Spako, Lerina Winter

D I G I TA L M E D I A A D M I N I S T R AT I V E
MARKETING DIRECTOR Kristy Harrison HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR
MARKETING COORDINATOR Vicky Lewis Judy Brown Lazenby
DIGITAL DESIGNER Stephanie Lambert IT DIRECTOR Matthew Scott Holt
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ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT/EDITORIAL
Alex Kolar

I N T E G R AT E D M A R K E T I N G S O LU T I O N S

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CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD/CEO Phyllis Hoffman DePiano

PRESIDENT/COO Eric W. Hoffman PRESIDENT/CCO Brian Hart Hoffman
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 A
A O
N
N U
N
EX NC
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IT M
IN EN
G T
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PRESENTS

Spring
RETREAT

Embrace the best of country cottage style with

the editors of The Cottage Journal magazine.
Join us for a VIP antiques shopping retreat
in the famous Round Top, Texas.

ROUND TOP, TEXAS

March 31–April 2, 2020

Together we will learn how to shop for antiques with some

of our favorite vendors seen in The Cottage Journal.
So, grab your favorite shopping friends and join us to make
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JOIN US TODAY!

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 WELCOME HOME
C
hristmas is a time for family and friends to make memories
that last for years to come. It is a season to offer
gifts, gather over delicious meals, and spend precious
moments together. To be at home, wherever that may be, has
meaning that goes beyond current style trends to our essential
wish to connect each year. The need to scurry from one home
to another seems to lift spirits, and peace dwells among festive
settings of decorations, wreaths, and merry-making!
Scottish tartan is a historically popular pattern, and in this
issue, we feature it on festive packages and examine its roots
in “Timeless Tartan” on page 13. The pattern also inspired
the tree on our cover, draped with ribbons and ornaments and
wrapped gifts, too. While it has been popular for ages, we can
appreciate that its classic look never grows old!
“Old Memories, New Life” on page 25 is a glimpse into a
traditional cottage with contemporary accents, as the homeowner
says she desires an occasional new touch to keep her home in
style for several years. Neutrals are the backdrop for pops of
color and a bedroom of soft shades of beige creates a calming
effect she loves.
Traveling during the holidays or living abroad offers
WANT MORE COTTAGE STYLE?
Sign up for our FREE newsletter today at opportunities for collectors of glass ornaments or other
thecottagejournal.com. sentimental handmade pieces. “Collected Traditions” on
page 55 is an introduction to one family’s “friends,” which
they unpack every year to display and share with others.
From carved nativity sets to Scottish tartan ornaments to
clip-on beeswax candles for the tree, all are combined with
lush greenery for a holiday filled with memories.
We hope you find this issue as delightful to read through
as we did to create it. Our homeowners were very kind to
allow us to visit, photograph, and share their cottage stories
of holiday decorating. If you’re looking for the perfect gift for
a loved one, a subscription is the perfect choice! Just visit us
online at hoffmanmediastore.com, or call us at 800-361-8059.
For more inspiration, visit us at Our team at The Cottage Journal would like to wish you a very
thecottagejournal.com
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
and follow us on
Facebook: Pinterest:
The Cottage Journal pinterest.com/thecottagej

Instagram: Twitter:
@thecottagejournal @thecottagej

7 the cottage journal

 Merry Christmas
“Christmas now surrounds us, happiness
is everywhere. Our hands are busy with
many tasks as carols fill the air.”
—–Shirley Sallay
FEATHER
YOUR
NEST

the cottage journal 12

Timeless
TARTAN
Christmas calls for festive colors
adorning every surface, and there’s
no better pattern for it than tartan.

Collection courtesy of The Nest in Birmingham, Alabama.

A
t the first mention of tartan, the mind
may go straight to the Scottish High-
lands and the days when kilt patterns
were a sign of one’s home region. However,
tartan patterns were likely not created by
our Scottish brethren at all. One of the
earliest examples of tartan dates all the way
back to 1000 BC with the Cherchen Man,
the mummified remains of a Celtic male
found in the Taklamakan Desert in western
China wearing tartan leggings and a red tunic.
The striking pattern surged in popularity
at the time most people would assume,
though—the 17th and 18th centuries in
the Highlands of Scotland. In fact, the
multicolor pattern became such a cultural
symbol that Scottish clans, or family groups,
began creating their own tartans as a way to
identify each other.
Through the centuries, tartan has
become an identifying factor for Scots as
a whole, not just Highlanders, but it has
also found a following in other countries.
The orderly striped pattern is beloved by
collectors around the world and is featured
in a variety of different items, from ornamental
boxes and clocks to clothing items and even
thermos patterns.
Tartan is unique in that it can match with
nearly any color palette thanks to its color-
ful design. There’s truly no better time of
year to display your tartan collection than
Christmas, both for its iconic pattern and
for the nostalgia it evokes.

TEXT BY HANNAH JONES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WILLIAM DICKEY
STYLING BY AMY WILSON

Though personalized tartan patterns first

started as a way to identify different clans,
businesses started adapting their own versions
of the popular pattern in the 20th century, like
the famed Burberry version.

the cottage journal 14

 Merry
and Bright
BOTANICS
More than just flowers flourish at
Apotheca as community comes alive
within the walls of the shop that once
served as a New Hampshire train station.

T
he welcoming ambience and alluring glisten
of the holiday season come alive inside
Apotheca, a charming cottage-style boutique
in the small town of Goffstown, New Hampshire.
Owner Alyssa Van Guilder opened the shop’s doors
in 2005, and since that time, the brick-and-mortar
flower shop has expanded while being embraced
by the community it calls home. Alyssa embodies
the spirit of the holiday season year-round, feeling
honored to play a role in customers’ celebrations,
love stories, and everyday messages by turning them
into custom-designed floral formations.  
The talented shop owner first began fostering
her love of creating during her childhood in rural
Alaska. She could often be found playing in nature,
crafting unique creations out of found objects
and attempting to sell them at the end of her dirt
drive where more caribou passed than people.

15 the cottage journal

As if flowers and coffee
weren’t a dynamic enough
duo to draw you through
the doors, Apotheca also
includes an art gallery as well
as space for workshops and
open mic nights to foster
community engagement.
 An entrepreneurial spirit came naturally to Alyssa,
who spent much of her childhood watching her
parents run a local café off the Denali Highway,
and it was there that the importance of having a
sense of community developed in her. With these
characteristics rooted in her, Alyssa was able to take
the leap into her dream of opening a storefront
and allowing it to grow while bringing together
the things she believes in most.
Offering more than just beautiful floral arrange-
ments, Apotheca, which means “storehouse” or
“variety” in Latin, also sells candles, soaps, gifts,
and seasonal goods among other carefully curated
items. Alyssa’s family—who played such a strong
role in the values ingrained in her and, in turn,
the store—helped to transform the storefront into
a budding flower shop complete with a walk-in
flower cooler, full-service café, and a space to host
events that further involve the public.
During the holiday season, the summer green
space is transformed into a winter wonderland
stocked full of unique varieties of Christmas trees,
wreaths, and festive garlands. Carefully curated
ornaments and gifts can be found inside the shop,
and the Apotheca team even takes on a handful
of clients to help transform their homes for the
holidays. Much like the train station it originated
as, Apotheca has served as a depot of connection for
everyone who enters through the shop’s doors.

TEXT BY DOROTHY WALTON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER BAKOS

17 the cottage journal

FINDS
It’s the most wonderful time
of the year to cozy up your
cottage and prepare for the
season’s festivities. Deck
your halls, tree, and tables in
the colors and emblems of
Christmas with this selection
of products sure to put you in
the holiday spirit.
(Clockwise from top left) Holiday plates from Molly Hatch, mollyhatch.com. Pillows and snowflake ornament from Mélange
Collection, melangecollection.com or 970-544-4828. Birch Trees and Cardinals Hand Painted Ornament from Cedar + Pearl
Heirloom Decor, cedarandpearl.com. Red hand-painted ornament from giddy paperie, giddypaperie.com. Red stockings from
Birch Lane, birchlane.com. Candles from NEST Fragrances, nestfragrances.com or 212-759-0047. (Opposite) Snowflakes
and Santa pillow from Chandler 4 Corners, chandler4corners.com or 800-239-5137. Tartan pillow from Scot Meacham
Wood Home, scotmeachamwoodhome.com. Throw from Laura Ashley, lauraashleyusa.com or 855-396-6100.

the cottage journal 20

 (Clockwise from top left) Holiday hand towels from The Well Appointed House, wellappointedhouse.com or 888-935-5277.
Gold tray from Vietri, vietri.com or 919-245-4180. Champagne flutes from Juliska, juliska.com or 888-551-7310. Gold “Joy”
napkin wraps from Frontgate, frontgate.com or 888-263-9850. Holiday Dinner and Salad Plates from Lenox, lenox.com or
800-223-4311. Gold glass from Kim Seybert, kimseybert.com or 877-564-7850.

21 the cottage journal

Americana Village Houses
candle lanterns from
Whole House Worlds on
Amazon, amazon.com.

TEXT BY DOROTHY WALTON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAC JAMIESON
STYLING BY LUCY FINNEY

the cottage journal 22

HOME
SWEET
HOME

the cottage journal 24

Old Memories,
NEW LIFE
From the cherished antiques to the twinkling
lights, this home was built for family.

the cottage journal 26

 An antique secretary built by homeowner David Wooldridge’s
great-great-uncle—after whom David was named—graces the
foyer. “We made sure we had a place for that piece of furniture
when we built the house,” Becky Wooldridge says.

27 the cottage journal

I
n December, the Wooldridge house comes to life.
From the tree that sparkles not far from a glowing
fireplace to the fresh greenery that drapes mantels
and banisters alike, Becky Wooldridge enjoys throwing
in a little bit of magic among the storied antiques that
adorn every room. “I just enjoy arranging it and looking
at it in the house and seeing how it brings life to the
house at Christmastime,” she says.
But bringing life into the house isn’t something
she enjoys only during the holidays. In fact, it was
that desire that informed nearly every aspect of the
design—including Becky’s careful use of contemporary
pieces alongside the more classic elements. “I don’t
want to throw anything in that I know is going to
go out of style in five years, so I try to keep it pretty
traditional,” she says.
However, she and her best friend, designer Maurine
Abney, looked for ways to add a little something modern
here and there—like the chandelier in the living room.
“She and I both know that, five to 10 years from now, the
light fixtures all change, and you can easily put up
something new that brings the room to life,” Becky says.
the cottage journal 28
 (Below) A collection of blue-and-white china surrounds the
round window in the kitchen—a design choice that Becky had
to be sold on. “I was scared to do it,” she says of the window,
noting that Maurine came up with the idea. But it turns out
Maurine knew what she was doing, as Becky loves the installation.

The handful of contemporary pieces contrasts

beautifully with the antiques that offer a glimpse
into the family’s history. Metal moldings that hang
in the den were picked up when Becky’s husband,
David, worked as a metallurgical engineer, and
Becky framed daily logs written by David’s great-
great-uncle, who was a farmer. “Everything that
I put in my house, I want it to have some meaning
to me,” Becky says. “A lot of the things we used
on the walls and things are pieces that mean
something to us.”
And although the design does feature neutral
tones, Becky livened up spaces like the kitchen
and den with her favorite color. “I love blue,”
she says. “I don’t like everything being neutral; I
like color to bring life into the room.” She adds,
however, that she does like to build on a neutral
base so she can change out the colors with pillows
and other elements whenever she wants.

29 the cottage journal

Because of the confining size of the kitchen
in Becky and David’s previous home, Becky
knew she wanted a space that would be
more conducive to gathering. “I wanted to
make sure I had space in there where people
could talk to me while I was in there or enjoy
company in that room,” she says.
When building the home, Becky and David aimed
to create a space that was open enough to be
airy without eliminating the coziness of a small
cottage. “My husband found that he just likes a
cozy room somewhere,” Becky says.
 Overall, Becky and David just
wanted a cozy, livable home that
would carry them into the next phase
of their lives. “I just didn’t want any-
thing so dressy that we didn’t feel
While Becky enjoys using
comfortable in it,” Becky notes. “I just
color in her home, she
wanted a comfortable home more left the master bedroom
than anything.” saturated with soft
neutrals. “I just thought
When it comes down to it, bringing it was very peaceful,”
the house to life is about more than she says. (Top, left)
Contrasted against
the décor. For Becky, it’s all about
the crisp white wood
welcoming family into the home to planking, an antique
make new memories—especially at pizza plate was a
Christmas gift from
Christmas. “We’re always here on Becky’s daughter.
Christmas morning, and everybody
comes here,” she says, noting past
holidays filled with hot cocoa and
carols. “We have always loved this
time of year.”

TEXT BY BETHANY ADAMS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLE DU BOIS
STYLING BY AMY WILSON

the cottage journal 32

Christmas
MAGIC
This holiday home employs the help of
a few talented Christmas elves to deck
their halls for the season.
The front entryway and
dining room are open to the
living room and kitchen but
use a subdued palette for
a subtly elegant feel. Florist
Molly Berry drapes garland
across the eight-seat table
and accents it with silver
trees and ornaments. In the
foyer, small lit trees topped
with gold bows tie the space
into the rest of the home.

the cottage journal 34

 Y
ou can only imagine the joy on Natalie
Arnemann’s children’s faces when they
walk back through the doors of their
home after traveling during the Thanksgiving
holiday. While the Arnemanns are away with
family, friend and florist Molly Berry decks
their halls with Christmas cheer. “My family
travels for Thanksgiving, so we are completely
out of her way,” Natalie says. “When we get
home, my children think magical elves have
decorated our home for Christmas.”
The children might just be right. Over
the course of just a few hours, Molly transforms
the home’s neutral décor scheme into a winter
wonderland. While designing their home
after purchasing it four years ago, Natalie and
her husband opted for a neutral color palette
throughout, which Molly says is perfect when
decorating for the holidays. “I am definitely
not afraid to add a punch of color, especially
for the holidays,” Molly says. “Holiday décor
is temporary, so it is easier to choose bright,
bold colors because I know they won’t have
to look at it forever.”
The keeping room is the children’s
favorite spot. To the side of the kitchen but
tucked away behind a wall, the room is the
ideal place for their tree. It’s no surprise the
children think elves decorate the space, with
the traditional green tree adorned with fun
and festive ornaments mixed in with ones
the children have made. Molly uses a large
bow of different red and green ribbons as the
tree topper, letting the ribbons spill over the
branches and to the bottom. A red-and-green
tree skirt is a pop of color atop the neutral rug.

35 the cottage journal

The extra space in the home
is perfect come the holiday
season as Natalie’s family
celebrates at her house on
Christmas Eve. “I love setting
the table, lighting the candles,
and having a great time with
family,” she says. “We want
all to feel welcome in our
home, and I believe we have
accomplished that.”
the cottage journal 38
 In the large kitchen, the deco-
rations play off the red and green
in the keeping room but in more
subtle ways. Three wreaths tied with
traditional red ribbon hang along
the windows above the sink, giving
Natalie a perfect view through to
the magnolia tree outside. For the
island centerpiece, Molly uses a
galvanized tin trough and adds
small trees wrapped in brown paper,
tied with twine, and swirled with
red-and-white ribbon. In different
corners of the space, she adds baubles
and ornaments of red and green.
In the Arnemanns’ living room,
the white brick fireplace is the
center of the space and a gathering
spot for the family come the holiday
season. “Our favorite place is in

When updating their 1960s home, the Arnemanns gutted the space,
tearing down walls to open the house up more. “We made it very open
and airy for an entertaining layout,” Natalie says. “We love to entertain
and have friends and family over often. We wanted it to be open for us
to have 50 people in the house if we wanted!”

39 the cottage journal

Natalie notes that having a flocked
tree in the living room and a tradi-
tional green tree directly diagonal
in the keeping room ties the entire
space together. “It always comes
out absolutely stunning with
all of the red, green, and white
throughout the house,” she says.
front of the fireplace,” Natalie says. “We always make
a fire Christmas morning and have coffee in the morning
and wine that night.” To the side of the fireplace, a
flocked tree laden with red, green, and white ornaments
ties in with the garland on the mantel. “The tree in
the living room is what we call ‘Mama’s tree,’” Natalie
explains. Topped with a gold star and red and white
ribbons, it matches with the rest of the home yet is
distinctly its own in its festive elegance.
TEXT BY HANNAH JONES PHOTOGRAPHY BY WILLIAM DICKEY
Though elves might not actually be the ones decorating
Natalie’s house for Christmas, she plans on letting her
children believe that for a little longer. The holidays
are a favorite time for the family, and she doesn’t want
to spoil any of the magic of the season. “Waking up
each Christmas morning is my favorite part of the day,”
she says. “We make breakfast, and I get to watch my
kids open up their gifts with just the four of us. It’s such
a special time.”
the cottage journal 42
 Southern Cottage
Charm See how Georgia-based interior designer Maggie Griffin
decks her home for the holiday season.

F
or Maggie and David Griffin and their two
young sons, Henry and Samuel, Christmas is a
family affair that begins well before Thanksgiving.
“Generally, we start in early November,” Maggie
admits. “We love Christmas! I decorate super early so
we can truly enjoy it for a longer period of time.” From
following the Advent calendar and reading all of the
Christmas books passed down from David’s mother to
donning matching holiday pajamas, the Griffin family
wholeheartedly embrace their holiday traditions.
“Christmas with children is so very special. We talk a lot
about how Christmas is really about being with those
we love and celebrating the arrival of Jesus,” Maggie
says. “Our neighborhood is full of young families with
kids, and sharing in the excitement is a highlight.”
The Griffins have called their 1945 cottage
charmer in Gainesville, Georgia, home since 2015.
And while its chic, Southern style definitely delights

the cottage journal 44

 Over the years, Maggie
has collected so many
ornaments that, each
year, she can pick and
choose a color scheme
to focus on. “And of
course, coordinating my
gift paper, too,” she adds.
“I have some gorgeous
glass ornaments that are
in shades of mauve, lilac,
spa blue, and sage, and
I typically use those first
with my mercury glass
for sparkle.”

year-round, there’s no doubt the home shines brightest
when dressed for the holidays. “My style is definitely
about a mix of old and new,” says Maggie, an interior
designer, “and that’s how I approach my clients’
homes, too.” From the front door to the back porch,
you’ll find Maggie isn’t afraid to mix design elements
and accessories from different periods and styles to
create a cohesive, comfortable space for her family.
“I prefer comfy upholstery, layered rugs, and a touch
of chinoiserie,” she says. “Antiques are also fun to mix
with modern elements, especially fresh works of art.”
Sticking to a rich palette of blues and greens,
the Southern cottage exudes a fresh and welcoming
panache. “I gravitate toward blues that remind me of
sunny skies and beautiful oceans and the greens that
remind me of growing up surrounded by lush farmland,”
Maggie shares. “I have always felt that sticking with
this ‘natural’ color scheme is the best place to begin
and to punctuate that palette with bolder hues of coral
or citron.”

45 the cottage journal

From the wallpapered entry to the hanging oyster plates that frame the round dining table, Maggie has
thought of everything when it comes to designing an inviting space for hosting guests. “We have a large
family and lots of friends, so having an extra dining space was definitely what we needed,” she says.
“It’s easy to have an intimate dinner for six or to pull the chairs away and serve heavy hors d’oeuvres.”
47 the cottage journal
the cottage journal 48
 The open-concept kitchen and keeping
room is a great place to gather both for
family and for entertaining. “With two
young boys and lots of company, a space
for our family and guests to relax while
I am cooking has always been a priority
at each of our homes,” Maggie says. “I
love preparing a meal while our company
can have a glass of wine, and I still feel
a part of the conversation.” And Maggie
is no stranger to playing host—especially
during the holiday season. From small
dinners with their neighbors to cocktail
parties with friends, Maggie shares that
she always keeps a festive table set. “Dur-
ing the holidays, I keep the table set for
two reasons: I love the festive feel of a
chic tablescape, and it’s already done if we
have an impromptu dinner party!”

49 the cottage journal

Maggie says that with her clients, she encourages soothing
master bedroom spaces, and she treated her own master suite
the same way. “We leave our drapes open for the natural light,
and since our bedroom is on the second level of the back of our
house, we feel like we are in the treetops,” she says. Crisp white
bedding paired with fluffy pillows and traditional lamps set the
scene for a classically chic retreat.
the cottage journal 52
 Thanks to the mild Southern climate, the Griffins with hospitality, traditions, and charm. “The character
can easily extend their holiday hosting outdoors, even and original elements gave us a warm feel from the
in December. “The  porch area is truly the  reason start,” Maggie says, adding that “any excuse to come
we bought our home. We spend tons of time here,” together with cheer, use all of my entertaining pieces,
Maggie says. “During the holiday season, we can enjoy and to gather for the Christmas season” only adds to
the sparkle of the tree and the fire burning.”  the home’s warmth and holiday glow.
Throughout the season, this family home glistens

TEXT BY KATIE ELLIS PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAC JAMIESON STYLING BY EMMY HOBBS

53 the cottage journal

the cottage journal 54
55 the cottage journal
 Collected
Traditions
A passion for history and time
spent traveling the world led to a
home rich with Christmas cheer.

R
ené and Jim Day have had their fair share of
adventures. During Jim’s time as an army officer,
the couple spent three years in Europe, where
René’s lifelong love of antiques was further fostered. “I
have a love of history, but the history that I prefer is the
history of people and how they have lived,” she says.
“And I think that kind of goes hand in hand with my
love of antiques, because it has history all over it.”
They brought that history home with them, filling
every room of their Tudor-inspired house with both
family pieces and antiques store finds. The home features
a mixture of the European furnishings René came to
love on their travels and the colonial-style items that
were popular when the couple married, and most
everything in sight has a story.

the cottage journal 56

 “The only new furniture that I’ve bought is probably
upholstery pieces,” René says. “As far as our tables
and case goods and things like that, I’ve always found
antique pieces that I liked better than something new.”
That preference led to the collection of décor like the
stepback cupboard in the living room, which likely
originated in Alabama, and the decorative European
woodwork hanging at the top of the stairs, which
René and Jim believe was once a church altar piece.
And it extends to the home’s Christmas décor as
well. “My latest thing has been antique ornaments,”
René says, noting that she has searched for handblown
glass pieces from the late 1800s to the early 1900s.
Currently, the Days decorate three trees with about
57 the cottage journal
3,000 ornaments, including various family collections
dating back to the 1930s. “I think my favorite part is
unwrapping ornaments, reliving those good times, and
seeing them,” René says. “They’re like friends. You
pack them away, you don’t see them for a year, and then
when you open them up, it’s a little like reacquainting
yourself with friends.”
Another collection the couple loves to break out
during the holidays consists of nativity sets they’ve picked
up over the years. “We began our first real nativity set
when we were married and living in Germany,” René
says. “The little town of Oberammergau, Germany, is
known for its woodcarving . . . so, we chose a nativity
set that was hand-carved.”
René and Jim’s first nativity set, purchased from a town in Germany, resides in a glass case in the
home’s front room. Not far away, a hand-painted set by René’s grandmother sits under the tree.
“We just started [collecting them] because it centers on the real meaning of Christmas: Christ’s
birth,” René says.

the cottage journal 58

 Even the few pieces
in the home that
aren’t antiques hold
precious family
memories, like the
corner cupboard in
the living room and
the huntboard in the
entryway, which
were built by René’s
father from antique
patterns. “They’ve
become very special
pieces to me,”
she says.

59 the cottage journal

“The kitchen island is
actually an old Southern
biscuit-making table,”
René says, pointing out
that the copper top lifts
up to reveal a slab of
marble meant to keep
the dough cool. To
create a storage shelf
on the bottom while
maintaining the antique
aspect, she added a
European breadboard.
 From there, they collected sets everywhere, from
Mexico to Israel to South America. “We have one
my grandmother made that’s probably from the late
1960s, early 1970s, and it’s now one of my prized ones,”
René says. “They just have to speak to us and have
special meaning.”
She also enjoys pulling in the scent of the holidays,
decorating with as much fresh greenery as the Southern
climate allows. She covers everything from the mantel
in the living room to the chandelier that hangs above
the kitchen table—a family piece from Jim’s side. “It
has square nails and it’s pegged, so we think it probably
comes from the 1830s to 1850s,” she says.

the cottage journal 62

“Scotland is one of our favorite
places,” René says, noting that Jim’s
family’s ancestry in the country
influences the cozy atmosphere of
the master bedroom’s décor. “I just
kind of pull in the red and the tartans,
and we do family ornaments in there.”
 A pair of antique boot forms sits next
to a cane-back sofa from the 1900s.
“We had it recovered and refinished and
found a gentleman in Eutaw, Alabama,
who still actually does the hand-caning,”
René says. “And so, he was able to repair
some of the places that were broken.”

In an upstairs bedroom, an antique

acorn bed from New England offers a
calming place for guests to rest and
recharge. “We think it was originally a
rope bed, although they converted it
later for a mattress and box springs,”
René explains.

As René and Jim raised their daughters,

the collections and knowledge gathered from
their adventures became traditions to be
passed down. From baking beloved ginger-
snaps to lighting candles on the tree every
Christmas—something picked up from their
time in Germany—the home has collected
more than a few family traditions.

TEXT BY BETHANY ADAMS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAC JAMIESON
STYLING BY AMY WILSON
Small
Gestures
This designer took a cue from
the home’s design scheme
and color palette to create a
holiday haven.
the cottage journal 68
 M
arrying Christmas décor with everyday
design is a task many homeowners are
familiar with. How do you blend your
personal style with holiday festivity, both naturally
and beautifully? It takes a special eye to combine
the two—but it’s something Jackson, Mississippi,
interior designer Betsey Mosby accomplishes
with ease.
In this Mississippi home, Betsey’s design
focused on simple elegance and sophistication
that was family-friendly—a task in and of
itself before adding in Christmas decorations.
Keeping the young family’s needs in mind,
Betsey focused on easy-to-clean materials, like
acrylic and leather, when selecting furnishings.
The design is minimalist, with the smallest hint
of glam in the form of gold-framed intaglios and
grand chandeliers in the living and dining rooms.
For holiday décor, Betsey incorporated subtle
decorations throughout, which echoed the
elegance of the overall design. “I think in any
home it’s important to take cues from the décor
[the homeowners] already have and add in
accents that complement the family’s style,” she
says. “Rather than going over the top, we added
small gestures that felt really personal but almost
blended in with their everyday décor.” With the
help of friend and florist Mallory Henry, Betsey
brought in natural greenery in the form of swag,
garlands, and wreaths.
Apart from this, Betsey stuck to a few small
pieces of décor that flow with the home’s design
scheme. In the formal living room, a small
bouquet of roses and an intricately designed
model of a church sit on an end table. In the
foyer, the homeowners display a collection of
antique-style Santa figurines, each decked with a
different color coat and holding a small Christmas
tree. The dining room table holds a stylish
arrangement accented with a gold reindeer.

69 the cottage journal

Designer Betsey Mosby notes that,
after living in Texas for years and
then moving home to Mississippi,
the couple found it important to feel
comfortable and at home in their
new house. “I think putting down
roots and making the space feel like
home was important to them after
they’d been away for several years,”
Betsey says, especially so at Christmas.
 The living room is perhaps the only room in
the home with immediately noticeable festiveness on
display. Even before you walk through the double
doors into the home, the tree beckons you in with its
soft glow that bounces off the white-and-gold ribbon
seen through the windows. The tree is adorned
with metallic ornaments and a few in a delicate red
hue, with blue velvet ribbon woven throughout
71 the cottage journal
to pay homage to the chinoiserie found throughout
the home.
Beside the tree is the sophisticated fireplace laden
with fresh greenery. Golden-hued stockings add the
slightest pop of color but still blend perfectly with the
gold in the home. An arrangement of white hydrangeas
adorns the mantel while tiny gilded reindeer stand
guard beside ornate ginger jars.
the cottage journal 72
73 the cottage journal
Throughout the home, from the living room to the kitchen,
Betsey used an abundance of acrylic in her design as a
way to mix new and old. “It was a modern element that
helped keep the more traditional elements from feeling
too stuffy,” she says. “Some of the more traditional pieces,
like the chinoiserie panels and Schumacher Pyne Hollyhock
fabric, could have felt too dated for the young family if they
weren’t married with more modern elements to make the
whole space flow.”

the cottage journal 74

 Tucked off the living room is a small playroom for
the homeowners’ two young children. Betsey notes
it was originally an office, but that layout didn’t work
for the family, so they moved the office upstairs and
converted the space into a spot for the children to
venture. Betsey used yellow Chou Chou wallpaper
from Sister Parish and added a green sofa and cobalt
blue stools. She’s quick to add that, of the spaces
she’s designed, this is one of her favorites.

The kitchen is the hub of the home,

situated right in the center, in between both
living rooms. The open concept allows the
family plenty of space to be together, and
the all-white color palette gave Betsey a
chance to let the greenery shine in the
space. A large wreath with a bow made of
the same blue velvet ribbon on the tree sits
atop the vent hood, and the gold lanterns
above the island play host to small sprigs
of greenery.
Though the home doesn’t abound
with shouts of red and green, the sense of
festivity isn’t lost. By letting the home’s
original design speak, Betsey created a
winter wonderland full of small gestures
that reflect the home and, more importantly,
the family who lives there.

TEXT BY HANNAH JONES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WILLIAM DICKEY

75 the cottage journal

For the couple’s young daughter,
Betsey designed a little girl’s dream
room. Pink patterned wallpaper sets
the stage, with a white canopy over
the bed adding a soft touch. For a
festive gesture, she added a small
feathered wreath above the pillows.
A Whimsical
Wonderland
With pops of royal blue and festive red
throughout, this chic cottage is a fun
twist on traditional décor.
W
hen Vanessa Young and her husband purchased
their new home and enlisted the help of
designer Alisa Berry, they knew they wanted
it to look and feel inherently different from their former
home. “Their previous home was darker and more
traditional,” Alisa shares. “For this one, they wanted
something more updated and glam while keeping
traditional touches.”
After their son left for college, the couple found
they had more freedom in their design choices as empty
nesters. Vanessa loves shades of blue, particularly
teal, so Alisa was sure to thread the color throughout
the home, with pops of the hue coming through in
every room.

the cottage journal 78

 With this palette established, Alisa had to
get a little more creative with her Christmas
décor for the family. She decided to play on
the notes of natural greenery with red and blue
accents to tie the décor into the overall design.
When you first enter the home, your eye
is immediately drawn to the whimsical yet
extravagant Christmas tree in the corner of
the living room. Through years of decorating,
Christmas trees have become Alisa’s specialty
come the holiday season. Glowing from the
inside out and decked with glittering ornaments
and flowing ribbon, the tree commands the room.
The rest of the living room follows suit, with
royal blue and red-and-white tartan accents
throughout. Gray feather Christmas trees and
hints of gold add the touch of glam that the
couple longed for. A double-sided fireplace
splits the living room and kitchen, with space
for company to flow through on either side.

79 the cottage journal

When planning Christmas trees, Alisa always
starts with the ribbon. “Picking out ornaments
and other garnishes is so much easier when you
have the ribbon already picked out,” she shares.
 The china cabinet features a unique backing: old book pages.
Peering through the couple’s collection of gorgeous crystal,
guests are greeted by the charming addition.

Vanessa shares that she’s

excited to open their new
home to host family from
out of town and to have
the space to help her
mother-in-law cook for
the holiday.

The kitchen is where the marriage of Alisa’s

expertise and Vanessa’s vision truly came together,
with ceiling-high cabinetry, chic gold pendant
lighting, and a counter-to-ceiling herringbone
backsplash. The nearly all-white palette gave Alisa
a clean slate for Christmas décor. She brought in
touches of red and natural greenery throughout,
centering the space around a simple, whimsical garland
on the range hood. The island is guest-ready with
festive holiday place settings.
Last Christmas was the family’s first in their
new home. With the new space decked to perfection,
they were able to celebrate the season with ease and
cheer. Looking forward, the couple hopes for many
more Christmases to come, filling their home with
all their friends and family.

TEXT BY HANNAH JONES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WILLIAM DICKEY

the cottage journal 82

COTTAGE
KITCHEN

the cottage journal 84

 Home
for the
Holidays
Practical meets pretty in this modern
farmhouse built for family.

I
n the past 10 years, Jamie and Skot Montgomery
have lived in three states and six towns and have
had eight different addresses. “We’ve always
dreamed of settling down back in the South and
building our forever home,” Jamie shares. That While designing their home, owners Jamie and Skot Montgomery
knew they wanted an open concept when it came to the kitchen.
dream came true for them in 2018 when the couple “I truly believe that the kitchen is the heart of the home,” Jamie
built a modern farmhouse they designed from the says. “It’s where meals are made, wine is poured, people always
end up congregating, and the best conversations are had.”
ground up in their home state of Alabama.
Jamie was sure to include a coffee bar and wine rack as part
Jamie says that when it comes to decorating her of the home’s design and layer in lots of warm wooden tones
home, her style is a mix of farmhouse, cottage, and throughout. “I love a white kitchen but didn’t want ours to feel
sterile,” she says. “So I made sure to choose lots of warm accents.”
coastal. She’s drawn to soft, neutral color palettes
for her base, which she accents with cool tones,
using wood, tile, or brick to bring in warmth and
texture. With two young sons, Cedar and Smith,
the Montgomerys’ dream home is a place built for
family life. Practicality was just as high a priority as
the visual aesthetics when it came to their home’s
design. “I love a pretty home but ultimately it’s got
to be functional,” Jamie shares. “I’m a big believer
that homes are made to be lived in and also used to
bless others. I never want to lose sight of this when
I’m decorating.”
To see more of Jamie’s modern farmhouse style,
visit her on Instagram at @montgofarmhouse.

the cottage journal 86

 While designing their modern
farmhouse, the Montgomerys
opted to use shiplap in mod-
eration. Thoughtfully placed
above the brick fireplace, the
shiplap accent creates an
eye-catching statement that
feels distinctly farmhouse
style. “When decorating for
Christmas, I strive to create a
warm, cozy, and inviting
environment,” Jamie says.

87 the cottage journal

 HOLIDAY STYLE IDEAS
A live garland draped across a mantel can be made to
look more full and festive by wiring in additional faux
sprigs, berries, and Christmas baubles. On the tree,
a mix of homemade heirloom family ornaments
alongside new finds and holiday ribbons helps tell a
story while feeling collected and chic.

TEXT BY KATIE ELLIS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAC JAMIESON
STYLING BY SIDNEY BRAGIEL

the cottage journal 88

 Holiday at
THE TABLE
There’s no better time to join friends and family around the
table than the holiday season. Don’t miss these simple style
ideas to create a tablescape that can easily transition from
Thanksgiving dinner through New Year’s Day brunch.
NEUTRAL BASE
Selecting a simple color palette for this holiday table layered
with creamy whites and dappled with golden hues resulted in a
setting that feels neutral yet festive. A central runner in a brilliant
golden yellow creates a runway for a myriad of white ceramic
vessels filled with dainty florals and stems, and a collection of
yellow candlesticks casts a welcoming glow as they anchor the
tablescape. With this neutral backdrop, it’s easy to edit for each of
the year-end holidays. For Thanksgiving, adding a simple gourd or
pumpkin atop each place setting creates a harvest feel. During the
Christmas holidays, a sprig of fresh evergreen or a holiday bauble
from the tree adds a festive touch. For a New Year’s Eve dinner, a
black or silver glittering accent lends just the right sparkle.

TEXT BY KATIE ELLIS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LERINA WINTER
STYLING BY MARGARET LLOYD
 GOLDEN HOLIDAY
Take a break from the traditional
reds and greens of the season and
allow your everyday pieces to take
on a fresh holiday role. Let your
favorite china patterns take center
stage. Even if they aren’t decked in
festive wreaths, trees, or holly berries,
you’ll find that a touch of gold
can help set the scene for nearly
any holiday. A simple white linen
adorned with a freshly clipped
evergreen sprig adds just enough
of a Christmas touch when paired
with a mix of crystal stemware and
amber-colored goblets. Keeping the
centerpieces neutral allows the eye
to rest and take in the simple details
set amongst a glorious holiday glow.

91 the cottage journal

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GARDEN
PLEASURES

the cottage journal 94

Les Fleurs
A New England flower shop speaks to
your soul with an Old-World accent.

I
t’s December. The wind is gusting menacingly,
and flurries are forecast before nightfall.
But when you slip through doors flocked in
magnolia garlands into a little shop in Andover,
Massachusetts, you’re no longer in the frigid
coastal New England town. For a few magical
minutes, it’s the holidays and you are strolling the
streets of Paris.
Everywhere you turn, Les Fleurs is decked
in vintage woven baskets and wine crates with
the names of legendary vineyards faded by time.
The patina on old buckets is complemented by
armloads of dried magnolia twigs and the soft
lacework of fern fronds as live plants mingle with
the harvest of last year’s glory. Here and there,
you find vintage ornaments owner Sandra Sigman
gathered in markets when she last visited Paris,
but every bit of bling was long ago muted by the
fingers of time. The more deeply you explore
the treasure-laden nooks of the shop, the more
details you discover. You could spend a lifetime in
this shop—Sandra certainly does. It’s her little bit
of Paris in New England.
A part of Sandra is always in Paris. She
lived there for two years in the 1980s as a young
figure skater with a Holiday on Ice troupe.
By night, she skated professionally, which left
daytime for exploring the city. Because her mother
was a florist, she frequented little florist shops,
eavesdropping over shoulders, watching the shop
girls work their bouquets, describing their tech-
niques to her mother by phone and letter. When

Walk into Les Fleurs and you might find Sandra Sigman
in her shop, bustling around, pulling stems from
different buckets, creating an arrangement with
meaning. “Whether it comes from nature or a French
craftsman, every item in this shop has a story,” she
says as she tucks the finishing touch into a groom’s
boutonniere.
 While living in France, Sandra learned
the lessons of simplicity. What she
crafts is so simply brilliant that it
sparkles without any additional bling.
But she also discovered a fascination
for detail. “Everything here is carefully
curated,” she explains. “Nothing is loud
or brassy in this shop. It’s the subtle
touches that I love. Each card and
ribbon is thoughtfully selected.”

97 the cottage journal

 she grew homesick and returned to her little Boston,
Massachusetts, suburb, Sandra decided to follow the
family dream and open a flower shop in a nearby town.
“They need a French florist,” she thought when she
found the storefront on the corner of a busy street
in Andover. Tragically, her mother lost a battle with
breast cancer a month after the shop opened. To this
day, Sandra dedicates every bouquet she builds to her
mother’s memory.
Andover fell in love with Les Fleurs. Especially when
the holidays are approaching, the bustling town finds a
few spare minutes to be transported to another land
and a time long ago. Sandra prepares for the holidays
many months ahead, making trip after trip to France
and sending her finds home. As the holidays approach,
she closes the shop for a weekend to decorate. “I empty
TEXT BY TOVAH MARTIN
99 the cottage journal
the shop out entirely to build a new scene for the
holidays. On the first day, I work alone with a couple
of strong men to lift and place the background of trees
and branches, stacking containers and baskets that will
be filled with goodies.” Each section of the store has a
theme that might start with snippets of vintage ribbon
or a birch branch, building on that inspiration. The next
day, the staff returns, and “like little elves,” they work
furiously to fill in vignettes. Muted ornaments overflow
from urns and bulbs spill from opaque apothecary jars,
waiting for customers to scoop them up and take them
home. Twigs, branches, and moss mingle with antique
homespun linens. And the famous flower bar waits
with huge bundles of roses in burnished shades and
tempting bunches of rare blossoms begging to be
brought together into an arrangement.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KINDRA CLINEFF
Tips for
Trimming
the Tree
When it comes to festive décor,
Christmas trees are the ultimate
expression of a home’s holiday
style. No matter what makes
this time of year special to a
homeowner, having a themed
tree is a great way to express
your seasonal style.
(Clockwise from left) From trees decked in heirloom family ornaments to
ornately chic motifs, there’s no wrong way to decorate the tree. Vintage-style
string lights always add a festive flair. Laden with tufts of snow, peaceful
white doves, and a touch of shimmering silver garland, this tabletop tree
speaks to the serenity of the season. With a sprinkling of delicately crafted
snowflakes, this tree is remniscent of the first snow of the season. Inspired
by heavenly choruses, this tabletop tree features a variety of angelic adorn-
ments. This nature-inspired creation is the essence of “woodland glam.”
Decorative versions of forest creatures evoke images of a brisk walk in the
woods. The sound of Christmas carols is a sure sign that the yuletide season
has begun. Inspired by the uplifting classic “Joy to the World,” this tree
sports a motif of musical notes and gilded crosses, which are perfectly
complemented by a color palette of brilliant golds and rich reds.

the cottage journal 102

ARTISTS
& ARTISANS

the cottage journal 104

 A Handmade
HERITAGE
Inspired by her grandmother and encouraged by her husband,
this ceramics artist has created a style all her own.

J
ulie Spako’s ceramics business started with a Christmas present. After
studying the subject while earning a degree in printmaking at Syracuse
University, she took time off from her art to raise her twin boys. “And then
in 2012, for Christmas, my husband gave me a ceramics class as a gift,” she says.
“I was always buying all kinds of pottery and he thought I should start making it.”

Artist Julie Spako cites time

spent with her grandmother
for many of her creative
tendencies. “She taught
me how to knit when I was
6 years old,” she says. She
recalls watching her grand-
mother unravel a sweater
she had been knitting after
noticing a mistake at the
very bottom of the pattern.
“She was very highly prin-
cipled like that, and it didn’t
matter that she had put all
the work into it if it wasn’t
right,” she says. “And so, I
kind of absorbed that.”
 What started as a hobby quickly grew into a
passion. Over time, Julie developed a style of pottery
she hadn’t been able to find among the shops in her
area. “I was always inspired by my grandmother’s Blue
Willow collection,” she explains. “She was English, and
she had a lot of different blue-and-white pottery from
England. And we would use it every day.”
Her grandmother’s collection was a major influence
on Julie’s own work, informing not just the color and
delicacy of the designs but also their functionality. “I
think that’s the most important thing, that they can
be used every day,” she says. To that end, she makes
sure her pieces are food-safe as well as suitable for the
microwave and dishwasher.
After hand-building each piece, Julie fires her
porcelain in an electric kiln at a high temperature in
order to ensure it’s durable enough for daily use. Her
platters, plates, bowls, and more feature elegantly
simple designs and patterns reminiscent of watercolor
paintings—the result of extensive research and experi-
mentation with slips and underglazes.
“Ultimately, I found that I liked the way my patterns
looked once I altered them with a glaze on top of
them,” Julie says, noting that her glazes will never fade
the cottage journal 106
 or change. “And then I finally just evolved within
that more.”
That evolution can be seen in her red-and-white
pieces, inspired by a style of embroidery called
redwork, as well as her line featuring free-form
birds. “I’m always trying new things,” she says,
adding that she tries a new form or design with
every load she puts into the kiln. But through
every change, it all goes back to a Christmas
present and her grandmother’s Blue Willow.
To see more of Julie’s work, visit spakoclay.com.

TEXT BY BETHANY ADAMS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIE SPAKO

With the exception of her decorative pieces,

which feature a 22-karat gold luster, Julie makes
sure everything she produces is dishwasher- and
microwave-safe. “That’s more for decorative
pieces,” she says of the luster.

“I was always really fascinated by birds,”

Julie says of her free-form patterns.
“Their variety and how incredibly they
develop all these different decorations
and how they’re a part of our daily
lives, too . . . I was inspired by that.”

107 the cottage journal

 NEW
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 Wooden
ROOTS
This New England woodworker
creates one-of-a-kind holiday décor.

W
hen David Munyak moved to Vermont
in 2004, he began building a workshop,
intending to focus on custom furniture.
Along the way, though, he discovered he loved
turned work. He enjoyed the process, the gentle
curves that formed, and he became fascinated with
ways to create usable goods for the home. He now
creates a wide variety of pieces—from salt pots and
spoons to vases—all with respect to the curves and
natural patterns found in reclaimed wood sections
he gathers near his home in Middletown Springs,
Vermont. He credits his father, a carpenter, for his
love of wood and working with his hands.
Most of his works are made from native
hardwoods, like maple, cherry, and ash, or pieces
that offer unique grains and striations for a design.
He finds that his hollow ornaments seem to
delight shoppers at local and state artisan shows
he attends. Lightweight and decorated with dyes
or woodburning touches, the caps and finials are
attached separately. Snowmen are another small-size
favorite, crafted from only one piece of wood,
with touches of paint, dyes, and woodburning.
Bowls are another favorite of David’s, as harvested
wood sections begin with a roughly sawed bowl
Hollow ornaments are shape. He usually packs the rough bowl away to
light in weight, lending
dry completely for one or two years, depending
themselves to dramatic
elongated shapes. Darker on the size. Grain pattern and shape are evaluated
finials from turned and once the drying process is complete, and flaws
stained wood complete
the finished design. are turned away so the most beautiful bowl can
be formed.

109 the cottage journal

 The hollow forms or vessels generally
have small openings, about which David
always receives queries. “Sometimes people
will ask me, ‘How in the world did you
remove the wood from within the tiny
hole at the top?’” He always answers with
a simple, “Very carefully!” Using a greener
wood, he first creates the shape and then
hollows out the center, utilizing a variety
of tools and techniques to reach the desired
wall thickness. Once the piece is dried and
sanded, a finish is applied. The decorative piece
can be displayed on its own or embellished
with dried flowers or twigs.
Over the last 15 years, David has made
many custom furniture pieces, and, in the
process, discovered that wood turning is his
passion in life.

TEXT BY CINDY COOPER

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DAVID MUNYAK

(Clockwise from top) Small trees, approximately 1 to 2 inches tall,

allow people to create their own forests and put their imaginations
on display. The handsome bleached maple bowl, approximately
12¼ inches in diameter, has a dramatic, clean look from labor-
intensive shaping and turning of the wood. Vases such as this walnut
one contain glass inserts that allow fresh flowers to have a drink of
water. The bleached spalted maple hollow form, approximately
6¾ inches in diameter, has a unique and strategically hollowed
form, which highlights the naturally occurring patterns and gives
it an orb shape for tiny blooms or feathers. Artisan David Munyak
works to create the exterior and then hollows the interior,
removing waste from the small opening in the top.

the cottage journal 110

 Crescent City Christmas
Make your way down South for a winter
getaway filled with music, food, and
enough shopping to fill Santa’s sleigh.

F
or an unforgettable Christmas experience
that’s low on snow but high on unforgettable
memories, New Orleans, Louisiana, is the
perfect destination. From a rich history and
unique culture to a food scene that can’t be found
anywhere else, the Big Easy offers a holiday
vacation like no other.

111 the cottage journal

WHAT TO DO:
From the food stalls at the French Market
to the boutiques on Magazine Street to the
antiques and art along Royal Street, the city
has no shortage of stops for last-minute gift
shopping. If music is an essential part of
your holiday experience, be sure to take in
a Christmas concert at the historic St. Louis
Cathedral or join in the caroling in Jackson
Square. Afterward, enjoy the many glittering
light displays throughout the city, including
those in a number of hotel lobbies.

WHERE TO STAY:
Built in 1927 as the New Orleans Public
Service Inc., NOPSI Hotel, New Orleans
offers a stay steeped in history but updated
with modern amenities, like the rooftop bar
and pool. Located in the Central Business
District, the hotel is a short trip away from
the city’s major hot spots, including the
French Quarter and the Garden District.

WHERE TO EAT:
Before venturing out into the city for a day
of sightseeing, grab breakfast at Willa Jean,
and find your way to Otra Vez to refuel over
a lunch featuring tacos with a twist. If you’re
staying at NOPSI, be sure to grab dinner at
the hotel’s restaurant, Public Service, where
Chef Neal Swidler’s variations on classic
flavor combos are designed to delight. Or,
for a classic New Orleans experience, head
to Arnaud’s, where you can savor the best in
local fare and take in a little jazz at the same
time. And if you’re interested in ending the
meal with a show, be sure to order the Café
Brûlot for the table.
To start planning your trip, visit holiday.new
orleans.com.

TEXT BY BETHANY ADAMS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL BROUSSARD AND ZACK SMITH,
COURTESY OF NEW ORLEANS CONVENTION AND
VISITORS BUREAU
credits & Resources
To find out more about product sources or to contact the design
professionals, see credits and contacts listed below.
Timeless Tartan
Pages 13–14—Collection from The Nest.
Merry and Bright Botanics
Pages 15–17—Featured shop, Apotheca, in
Goffstown, New Hampshire. Photography
by Jennifer Bakos Photography.
Old Memories, New Life
Pages 25–32—Interior designs by Maurine
Abney, Maurine W. Abney & Company. Built
by Colt Byrom, Byrom Building Corp.
Christmas Magic
Pages 33–42—Interior designs by Courtney
Peters, Courtney Peters Interior Design.
Flowers and holiday décor by Molly Berry.
Southern Cottage Charm
Pages 43–54—Interior designs by Maggie
Griffin, Maggie Griffin Design.
Page 46—Chandelier from Circa Lighting.
Page 49—Wallpaper from Thibaut.
Page 50—Side chairs from Serena & Lily.
Art above fireplace by Emily Brown Art.
Pages 51–52—Bench from Scott Antique
Markets.
Pages 53–54—Pillows by Lacefield Designs.
Small Gestures
Pages 67–76—Interior designs by Betsey
Mosby, Betsey Mosby Interior Design.
Florals by Mallory Henry, Lavish Fleur.
Page 75—Wallpaper from Sister Parish.
A Whimsical Wonderland
Pages 77–82—Interior designs by Alisa
Berry, CasaBella Interiors.
Home for the Holidays
Pages 85–88—Tree, garland, antiqued
snowflake ornaments, and red-and-gold
finial ornaments from Balsam Hill. Hand
felted ornaments, cardinal ornament, tree
skirt, and stockings from Arcadia Home.
Tartan ornaments and wood-and-foiled
tin angel ornaments from Mud Pie.
Page 85—Throw from Pom Pom at Home.
Pages 87–88—Throw from Sferra.
Wrapping paper by Dixie Design Collective.
Pillow from Frontgate.
Holiday at the Table
Pages 89-91—Florals by Margaret Joan
Florals.
Les Fleurs
Pages 95–100—Featured shop, Les Fleurs,
in Andover, Massachusetts.
A Handmade Heritage
Pages 105–107—Ceramics by Julie Spako,
Spako Clay.
Wooden Roots
Pages 109–110—Woodwork by David
Munyak.
Email us at dwalton@hoffmanmedia.com,
and tell us your cottage story. Please
understand that any submissions you
send to us become the property of
Hoffman Media and may be used, edited,
reproduced, distributed, and displayed
without further review by you or
compensation to you. Additionally,
Hoffman Media accepts no responsibility
to review any submissions or keep
them confidential.
113 the cottage journal
STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT AND
CIRCULATION (required by Act of August 12, 1970: Section
3685, Title 39, United States Code). 1. The Cottage Journal 2.
(ISSN: 2162-9560) 3. Filing date: 10/1/2019. 4. Issue frequency:
5 issues per year. 5. Number of issues published annually: 5. 6. The
annual subscription price is $25. 7. Complete mailing address of
known office of publication: Hoffman Media 1900 International
CREDITS Park Drive, Suite 50 , Birmingham, AL 35243-5038. Contact
person: Kolin Rankin. 8. Complete mailing address of headquarters
or general business office of publisher: Hoffman Media 1900
Page 23—Styling by Amy Wilson.
International Park Drive, Suite 50 , Birmingham, AL 35243-5038.
Page 83—Photography by Lerina Winter. 9. Full names and complete mailing addresses of publisher, editor,
Styling by Margaret Lloyd. and managing editor. Publisher, Phyllis Hoffman DePiano, 1900
Page 103—Photography by Julie Spako. International Park Drive, Suite 50 , Birmingham, AL 35243-5038,
Back Cover—Photography by William Dickey. Editor, Cindy Cooper, 1900 International Park Drive, Suite 50 ,
Birmingham, AL 35243-5038, Managing Editor, Katie Ellis.
10. Owner: Hoffman Media; 1900 International Park Drive,
Suite 50 , Birmingham, AL 35243-5038. 11. Known bondholders,
mortgages, and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent
of more of total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securities:
None. 12. Tax status: Has Not Changed During Preceding 12
Months. 13. Publisher title: The Cottage Journal. 14. Issue date
for circulation data below: Autumn 2019. 15. The extent and
CONTACTS nature of circulation: A. Total number of copies printed (Net
press run). Average number of copies each issue during preceding
12 months: 254,924. Actual number of copies of single issue
Apotheca
published nearest to filing date: 234,038. B. Paid circulation.
apothecaflowershoppe.com, 1. Mailed outside-county paid subscriptions. Average number
603-497-4940 of copies each issue during the preceding 12 months: 90,296.
Arcadia Home Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing
date: 89,901. 2. Mailed in-county paid subscriptions. Average
arcadiahomeinc.com, 212-366-1836
number of copies each issue during the preceding 12 months: 0.
Balsam Hill
Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing
balsamhill.com, 888-552-2572
date: 0. 3. Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors and
Byrom Building Corp. counter sales. Average number of copies each issue during the
205-980-7424 preceding 12 months: 27,016. Actual number of copies of single
Betsey Mosby Interior Design issue published nearest to filing date: 32,390. 4. Paid distribution
through other classes mailed through the USPS. Average number
betseymosby.com, 662-230-0569
of copies each issue during the preceding 12 months: 619. Actual
CasaBella Interiors
number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date:
601-624-6575 620. C. Total paid distribution. Average number of copies each
Circa Lighting issue during preceding 12 months: 117,931. Actual number of copies
circalighting.com, 877-762-2323 of single issue published nearest to filing date: 122,911. D. Free or
Courtney Peters Interior Design A21nominal rate distribution (by mail and outside mail). 1. Free or
nominal Outside-County. Average number of copies each issue
courtneypetersinteriordesign.com,
during the preceding 12 months: 1,006. Number of copies of single
601-713-2595
issue published nearest to filing date: 1,048. 2. Free or nominal
David Munyak rate in-county copies. Average number of copies each issue during
davidmunyak.com, 802-235-1390 the preceding 12 months: 0. Number of copies of single issue
Dixie Design Collective published nearest to filing date: 0. 3. Free or nominal rate copies
mailed at other Classes through the USPS. Average number of
dixie-design.com
copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 0. Number of
Emily Brown Art
copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 0. 4. Free
emilybrownart.com
or nominal rate distribution outside the mail. Average number of
Frontgate copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 188. Number of
frontgate.com, 888-263-9850 copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 0. E. Total
Jennifer Bakos Photography free or nominal rate distribution. Average number of copies each
issue during preceding 12 months: 1,194. Actual number of copies
jennbakosphoto.com
of single issue published nearest to filing date: 1,048. F. Total
Lacefield Designs
free distribution (sum of 15c and 15e). Average number of copies
lacefielddesigns.com, 800-207-7402 each issue during preceding 12 months: 119,125. Actual number
Lavish Fleur of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 123,959.
facebook.com/LavishFloralandDesign, G. Copies not Distributed. Average number of copies each issue
during preceding 12 months: 135,799. Actual number of copies
601-259-2281
of single issue published nearest to filing date: 110,079. H. Total
Les Fleurs
(sum of 15f and 15g). Average number of copies each issue during
lesfleurs.com, 978-475-9669
preceding 12 months: 254,924. Actual number of copies of single
Maggie Griffin Design issue published nearest to filing: 234,038. I. Percent paid. Average
maggiegriffindesign.com percent of copies paid for the preceding 12 months: 99.0%. Actual
Margaret Joan Florals percent of copies paid for the preceding 12 months: 99.2% 16.
Electronic Copy Circulation: A. Paid Electronic Copies. Average
margaretjoanflorals.com, 805-705-8884
number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 0. Actual
Maurine W. Abney & Company
number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 0.
205-541-3533 B. Total Paid Print Copies (Line 15c) + Paid Electronic Copies (Line
Mud Pie 16a). Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12
mud-pie.com, 678-397-0170 months: 117,931. Actual number of copies of single issue published
The Nest nearest to filing date: 122,911. C. Total Print Distribution (Line 15f)
205-870-1264 + Paid Electronic Copies (Line 16a). Average number of copies
each issue during preceding 12 months: 119,125. Actual number of
Pom Pom at Home copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 123,959. D.
pompomathome.com, 818-847-0150 Percent Paid (Both Print & Electronic Copies) (16b divided by 16c
Scott Antique Markets x 100). Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12
scottantiquemarket.com, 740-569-2800 months: 99.0%. Actual number of copies of single issue published
Serena & Lily nearest to filing date: 99.2%. I certify that 50% of all distributed
copies (electronic and print) are paid above nominal price: Yes.
serenaandlily.com, 866-597-2742
Report circulation on PS Form 3526-X worksheet 17. Publication
Sferra of statement of ownership will be printed in the November/
sferra.com, 877-336-2003 December 2019 issue of the publication. 18. Signature and title
Sister Parish of editor, publisher, business manager, or owner: Greg Baugh,
sisterparishdesign.com, 800-970-3366 Executive Vice-President/Operations & Manufacturing. I certify
Spako Clay that all information furnished on this form is true and complete.
spakoclay.com I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading
information on this form or who omits material or information
Thibaut requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanction and
thibautdesign.com, 800-223-0704 civil actions.