A spirited Thomasville winter tradition rooted in hospitality

"We are only trustees for those that come after us." - William Morris (1834-1896), designer and leader in the Arts and Crafts movement

Happy Friday!

This past Saturday, Chris and I had the absolute pleasure of opening our home and backyard for an event that raised awareness and funds for an organization that is near and dear to our hearts, Thomasville Landmarks.

Landmarks' mission is preserving, protecting and promoting the character of our communities here in the Thomas County area.

As William Morris advocated in the 19th century (per the quote above), we are blessed to be stewards of the beautifully crafted 1850s home we live in and hope to preserve it and the other historic homes and buildings in our area for future generations.

This lovely watercolor of our home, used on the invitations, was painted by artist Virginia Warner and gifted to us by Wendy and John Batten after they visited us last year.

"Oysters in the Afternoon" has become a spirited Thomasville winter tradition rooted in hospitality!

Saturday's gathering of over 150 people featured freshly shucked oysters from nearby Panacea, Florida by Serenoa Shellfish Co. (aka "Skipper Sweets" - sublime!), a New Orleans-themed supper by Southern Blue Catering, bonfires, and spirits -- bringing people together to celebrate Thomasville's charm and enjoy the simple pleasure of great company.

Perfect weather and sunset capped off a superbly casual evening in the back yard with friends. See all the photos by Daniel Shippy HERE.

Music by The Jim Cable Blues Band kept us tapping our toes, a wine tasting by The Farmer's Daughter paired well with the oysters, and a bespoke cocktail called The French Quarters by Lighthouse Catering warmed many bellies.

And it could not have gone more beautifully because our friend Mariam at The Meadow pulled it all together with her signature style and grace!

You may remember a video I posted last Monday on Instagram (frozen fountain and all) as I ventured to the Thomasville History Center to meet with the curator, Ephraim, and learn even more about the history of our home in preparation for the event.

Fascinating! The story of our home is too long to tell in this letter; it could fill a book.

Well, it actually WILL be a book - Ephraim is going to make us one about our home. We should have it in hand by the end of the year!

And, I look forward to sharing more about each room in our home, the projects we have done, and the house's story in future letters.

xo,