I wish I could do the proper Miss Gracious Living thing and send all of you a handwritten note (on pretty Smythson stationery, of course). Your letters, calls, emails, blog posts, and comments of support have lifted our spirits during the close of Southern Accents, and it has been comforting to know that the magazine has meant so much to so many over the years. 

The staff got together on the last day to share a few laughs, a few tears, and a lot of Champagne. And though the magazine comes to an end and most of the staff has now scattered (on to do great things, I know, as they are the best), our love of Southern style will most definitely endure. Thank you and we raise a virtual toast to all of you: May you always find life beautiful, entertaining, and gracious!

About a year ago, we tore out the bar in our downstairs den. It was the size of a Volkswagen Beetle and looked like it was straight out of Starsky and Hutch.  I had a plan and never imagined that we would still have a blank spot with plumbing pipes exposed. As seems to be my luck lately, the contractor disappeared, and before I could find a new one, my husband has proclaimed it a do-it-yourself project. Now that football season is drawing near, I'm afraid it will be a while before we embark. In the meantime, here are some ideas I'm thinking about.

DRAWERS INSTEAD OF CABINETS

I like the streamlined look of drawers. Plus they come in handy for storing platters and napkins and such. 

designed by Brewer Design Group, Charleston, SC. photograph by Erik Kvalsvik

Atlanta designer Patricia Paulk of Patricia Paulk Interiors had her drawers outfitted with peg board and removable pegs so she can customize them to fit her dishes. Love that idea. photo courtesy of Patricia Paulk

This one designated for knives was designed by architect Mark Maresca.

DISPLAY SPACE

Silver and glass stand out in the same custom piece designed by Mark Maresca.

The red painted shelves add a little drama. photographs by Erik Kvalsvik

JUST THE ESSENTIALS

Maybe a beautifully outfitted amoire is the way to go. The side shelves hold glasses, leaving the back free to hang a painting. photograph by Tria Giovan

PRETTY ACCESSORIES

Silver hunt cups look pretty, even when not filled with mint juleps. 

Southern Cocktails by Denise Gee (Chronicle Books, 2007). This is a fun little book to have on hand and to give as hostess gifts. Along with the great libations, Denise tells some entertaining tales about growing up in Natchez.

photographs by Robert M. Peacock