Savannah Style by Paula Deen

Paula Deen, what can’t you love about this adorable lady?  Now I have to tell you a story of how Paula entered my life several years ago.  I had just graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design and was lucky enough to be offered a wonderful job at the Gap in San Francisco.  At that point I thought I was ready to move away and start my “big girl” life.  I don’t think I realized just how far away San Francisco was from my hometown of Atlanta, GA.  I dove right into work but I was homesick beyond words.  I missed my family and friends so badly.  Then one weekend afternoon I was flipping through the channels and there she was….Mrs. Paula Deen.  At this point in my life I wasn’t a devoted cook and baker like I am today, but I stopped and I watched and I cried.  Not a sad cry, but a good cry because for 30 minutes I was home again.  Paula reminded me of many of the Southern women I had in my life growing up and just having that nice soul talking to you…I mean what could be better?  I just simply adore her and have ever since.  My girls are even addicted to Paula and know her face when her show comes on.  It’s actually very cute because they’ll start yelling…Paula, Paula!  And they call Paula their “friend”.  I have a feeling this is the start of some future cooks.

Well, since I’m a huge fan of Paula I visit her website often just to catch up and see what she’s been up to.  I’m also one of the ladies competing in the Real Women of Philadelphia challenge and crossing my fingers I’ll get to meet this lovely lady in person.  Well recently, her wonderful Design Director (and Personal Assistant), Brandon, has been doing a section on her sight called Savannah Style.  It’s here where Brandon works his magic on a theme inspired tabletop.  He’ll tell you how to do it and what he used from Paula’s own collection of stuff and he also squeezes in a couple great stories.  I got to see Paula and Brandon together at the Miami Food and Wine Festival and what a hoot these two are!  Now let’s talk tables…. 

The Spring Table for Two (pictured above) is one of my favorites.  The colors the flowers….all just beautiful!  All prepared for a luncheon with Paula’s cousin Johnnie.

This Green Dinner Party was actually the first tables I saw in the Savannah Style section and how beautiful.  Of course the inspiration was St. Patty’s Day which if you don’t know is a huge celebration in Savannah.  I say this table would be perfect even if it wasn’t St. Patty’s Day. 

And….Paula and Brandon have come out with a Savannah Style book!  How great!!  In this gorgeous, richly illustrated book, Paula Deen shares a full year of Southern living. Whether it’s time to put out your best china and make a real fuss, or you’re just gathering for some sweet tea on the porch at dusk, Savannah style is about making folks feel welcome in your home. With the help of decorator and stylist Brandon Branch, you’ll learn how to bring a bit of Southern charm into homes from Minnesota to Mississippi. For each season, there are tips on decorating and entertaining.  What could be better I ask?