Spring Break on the Road: Tips & Must-Haves
Spring break is here, and a road trip may be in your immediate future. A change of scenery and some…
Spring break is here, and a road trip may be in your immediate future. A change of scenery and some…
The crisp autumn air, a cascade of color outdoors and cozy autumn candlelight make this season one of the best…
The cozy fabrics, the luxe colors, the inviting aroma of pumpkin bread baking or your favorite fall scent lingering as…
Can you believe the kids are back to school or comfortably settled into their dorm rooms? Summer wreaths are coming…
Kitchens and bathrooms are two places people spend most of their time. Either preparing for the day or getting ready…
With fall here and the holidays around the corner, people are traveling to reunite with family and friends. You may…
On a recent trip to Maine, where my family and I have traditionally enjoyed many fall vacations and created a…
It’s been a long time since we have had the opportunity to meet with friends and peers face to face…
Living a beautiful life doesn’t have much to do with money or status. At the core of living a life…
A trip to the beach is looking sunnier as the CDC says “fully vaccinated Americans can go without masks outdoors,…
Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 9th and many families are looking forward to spending time with their moms, grandmas, stepmoms…
Many people will be going back to the office and their remote workstation (aka their kitchen table) will soon be…
Someone once told me that we are only as happy as our least happy child. I do agree. My daughter…
Delivery drivers continue to provide an important service when it comes to supplying the community with curbside or door to…
It always feels good to enter a new year, begin a new journey and look forward to positive things to…
Election Day is November 3rd (tomorrow) and if you haven’t already taken advantage of early voting, you will be among…
Fall is my favorite time of the year! The leaves are changing, temperatures are dropping and it feels like a…
Fall is right around the corner and it’s the perfect time to organize and declutter. I love this blog by…
So much around us is stressful these days and a Christmas in July Celebration may be way to brighten your…
Father’s Day is this Sunday and if you are looking for something fun to do with your dad, your husband…
Who doesn’t love a good cocktail party? It’s an opportunity to catch up with friends and meet new people. Unfortunately,…
We are all looking for something to brighten our day: my friend and neighbor John Bloodsworth is a local (and…
By now everyone is practicing social distancing and feeling the reality of this rapidly changing, strange life under the threat…
Two of the great American purveyors of greeting cards, Hallmark and Papyrus are both closing stores across the country. Both…
Flowers and chocolates are lovely, but the best gifts may not come in a box. Memories are priceless. Creating new…
Do you stick New Year’s goals you want to achieve in the coming year? Are you feeling excited and eager…
When the calendar turns the page to October, my pumpkin spirit takes over my life. My favorite color is orange…
The beginning of a new season is a perfect time to evaluate your current level of satisfaction. Are you happy…
How do you feel when you walk into your closet? Are you at peace with how things are organized? Do…
It’s that time of year! Everyone is starting out fresh and with a new outlook. I went to the gym…
The change of seasons always sparks a desire to clear out space and organize before the holiday season. Today, Melissa…
Although ride share services (Uber/Lyft) are now commonplace, there are still many who have not yet used one. I recently covered…
Create a few pre-party planning rituals that will impress your guests and set the tone for the evening event. When…
Whether you are watching the game from your living room couch or hosting a soiree from the back of your…
Celebrate the new season by tossing open your back door and inviting friends over to visit. The theme is…
The weather is changing, temperatures are dropping slightly, and soon fall will be right around the corner. You may be…
A proper sleep schedule is just as important to your health as eating a nutritional diet. We all know…
When you accept a friend’s invitation to dinner, you take on a certain responsibility to be a good guest. Previously…
Human beings are wired to be social. It’s a scientific fact that isolation and loneliness can have a negative impact…
Family vacations, and even business trips, often include a four-legged friend. When traveling with a pet, there are guidelines of…
From a small mistake that inconveniences a customer to a gaffe of epic proportions, errors will happen despite our best…
What is your first thought when you walk in the door of your home? Do you take a sigh of…
Whether you are writing, speaking or delivering a presentation, using the correct word can mean the difference between demonstrating expertise…
If you haven’t stayed at an Airbnb, this popular mode of vacationing is often more exciting and unique than your…
In a world where outrageous behavior makes headlines, self-expression and individual freedoms often seem more important than following rules of…
People tend to do business with those they like, which is the main reason entrepreneurs invest time and effort in building client…
It’s a moment when everyone realizes the stakes are getting high and there is a potential long-term plan. You are…
Today is National Hot Dog Day! Whether sitting on the bleachers at a baseball game, a barbecue or pool party,…
It’s travel season and summer often means a trip to the beach (or pool). Here are a few etiquette reminders…
On a recent beach vacation to Sea Island, Georgia, I was on a quest to find the perfect collection of…
July 4th is the day the Declaration of Independence was formally adopted and the United States declared itself independent from…
While most flights manage to accomplish the goal of getting passengers safely to their destinations, the job is getting done with less…
“Going to the chapel and we’re— gonna get married!” Congratulations, you’re getting married this summer. What an exciting time! As…
With Memorial Day just around the corner, Flag Day on June 14th and July 4th right after that, the start…
Southern roots are more than talking with a charming drawl or driving a pick-up truck. Photo courtesy of Lettermade. Regardless…
Once again, graduation season is upon us and this year is particularly bittersweet. It’s my youngest daughter’s high school graduation…
It comes as no surprise… Mother’s Day rolls around every May. But showing mom how much you love and appreciate…
You may have recently lost your mother or are simply missing her after many years of being estranged. Or…
Without the right mindset, commuting to the office can be one of the most time consuming and stressful tasks we…
Parenting is such an important job. It’s almost overwhelming to comprehend that between casual playdates, weekly sports practices, evening dinner…
Molly Shapiro is an On-Air Culinary and Entertaining Expert. I have always admired her lovely blog, unique flair and delicious…
It’s time to break out the shamrocks and enjoy the holiday weekend. Gather a few friends together and celebrate St….
Whether you travel as part of running your own business or you’re planning a vacation, you’re probably looking for a…
We are living in the most connected era, daily looking into people’s lives across the country from our cell phone…
Socrates once said, “The soul, like the body, accepts by practice whatever habit one wishes it to contact.” Previously published…
While relationships may not look the same as they did in the 50s, common courtesy is a value that never…
It’s not about the money, but how you celebrate. Valentine’s Day is only one day out of 365 and, according…
Personal correspondence is one of the most meaningful ways to let someone know you are thinking about them. Who wouldn’t…
The third week in January is National Hunt for Happiness Week and while we are all on a quest to…
January 23rd is National Pie Day, and there’s nothing more American than a freshly-baked apple pie. And with numerous creative…
Unfortunately, it is becoming increasingly common to hear, read and see examples of bad behavior in all walks of life….
Despite all the typical lofty resolutions made at this time of year, there a few simple habits that are almost…
Life doesn’t travel in a straight line. There will always be detours, wrong turns and unexpected events along the way. When…
When things aren’t working as they have in the past, or you find yourself going down a rabbit hole, instead…
The holidays are full of good tidings and joy, however, they also are a perfect opportunity to encounter a checklist…
We commonly associate gift registries with weddings, bridal showers and baby showers, to supply newlyweds and new parents with those…
Cocktail napkins take front stage and are an important accessory when complimenting your favorite beverage at a party. I have…
There is much confusion when it comes to this popular root vegetable. Did you know your yam may be sham?…
If you have taken a bite of a hot pepper, the burn you are experiencing is a result of capsaicin—a…
As the weather cools, few things in life can beat waking up to the smell of a fresh pot of hot…
There are some do’s and don’ts when it comes to caring for a cast-iron skillet. With proper care, cast iron…
Children (and adults) don’t want to be isolated or have their allergy pointed out, but safety is always top of…
September 29th marks National Coffee Day. Start a tradition by sharing a cup of coffee with a friend is a…
There is almost always something around the house which needs to be done. Chances are you keep a mental or…
What can you say to someone experiencing a tragedy and what can you do if you want to help? As…
The ceremony was beautiful and you’ve just returned from the honeymoon. What’s next? If you’ve decided to take your new…
When your home is in disarray, it can be difficult to feel settled. There are a few daily steps you…
People typically fill Easter baskets with chocolate bunnies, jellybeans and trinkets for their kids, but Easter fun is for everyone!…
January brings a tailwind of inspiration to pursue big goals. It’s a great time to renew commitments to life aspirations…
The festivities have passed, and it’s time to get back into the rhythm of our daily routine. I’m passing along a few…
With Green Monday behind us, it will soon be time to tuck presents carefully under the newly-trimmed tree. Guest rooms…
“It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” and for many of us, that means hosting guests in our homes…
A flurry of delicious food, savory sides, and the perfect double layer pumpkin cheesecake have likely taken over your Pinterest…
Interested in spending a week at a luxury ski resort or taking a tour of Europe, but have a ways to go…
Many of us feel flustered when we see stores decked out in full Christmas splendor long before Thanksgiving dinner is served. But what if…
People often shy away from inviting friends over for a dinner party because they feel overwhelmed with the planning process…
What better time than the present to enjoy a romantic date with the one you love? Surprise your partner with their…
I read a story this morning that touched my heart, and I wanted to share my thoughts. A professor in…
It’s important to teach your kids the proper ways of navigating technology. As parents, it’s a top priority to guide…
Looking and feeling your best is a job interview “must,” and multiple studies have confirmed a link between the way we…
What can you accomplish in just five minutes that would make your day noticeably better? Here are a few suggestions…
Moving into a new apartment can be quite an adventure, one that is far more enjoyable with a little planning. There’s more…
When Father’s Day rolls around, I routinely receive feedback from dads who often protest, “Moms get all the love on…
Opening your home to Airbnb guests is no small feat, but the benefits include meeting friendly and interesting travelers and…
We have all heard someone proudly declare, “I don’t care what other people think of me.” And, under some but…
When a friendship shows signs of falling apart, it can be an emotionally charged situation. After being close to someone…
A memorable Mother’s Day doesn’t have to be elaborate; the simple sentiments often make the biggest impression on mom. Why…
Whether you are planning a trip to Louisville, Kentucky this weekend, or staying back and wearing a Derby-inspired outfit, here are…
I have known Jessica Gordon Ryan for several years and have always admired her style, flair, and spunk. Her website, The…
Pursuing additional education while working full-time, whether to advance in a career or transition into a new one, is not…
I was recently asked about my morning routine, and it made me wonder how other people welcome a new day….
The change of seasons provides a perfect opportunity for us to refresh our office wardrobe. Staple items that are both stylish and…
When it comes to relationships, we all have lines that must not be crossed. There are several offenses that are…
As a corporate etiquette expert I am often asked for my personal New Year’s resolutions. As you continue to read…
The holidays, with joyful celebrations and family traditions, bring a flurry of activity. There is so much to do, from wrapping…
The holidays are a harried time of year and we tend to let ourselves get overwhelmed with holiday shopping, office…
There is a certain comfort in knowing your next door neighbor and building a relationship you can count on when…
It’s not your imagination. Your personal space on airplanes really is shrinking. Several major airlines have squeezed rows closer together…
As we move into the cooler months, a hot cup of Rooibos tea may be an appropriate choice to cozy…
Football season is upon us. Thanks to cooler weather, good food, drinks, and exciting games, tailgating is a great way…
Ask the Etiquette Expert: I have a close friend whose breath can be offensive. How do I tell my friend she has bad breath?…
When it comes to apps, trying to find the best one for your travel needs can end up making you…
Whether you are saving money for an upcoming trip or working to pay down credit card debt, tightening the belt…
Life presents us with many occasions to offer thanks or congratulations, but there are also times when a word of…
Life is a series of moments, and moments make memories. If we aren’t careful, we can hurriedly turn the page…
Dear Diane, I share the same birthday as my son who now lives in another state. I usually call him…
Do you wear glasses? If so, you know how expensive they can be, especially when you like to own several…
If you’re a fan of Food Network specifically Food Network Star, you have already met Chef Luca Della Casa. Here…
I wanted to share some daily encouragement with all my readers. One of my favorite symbols is an anchor and…
Last weekend I made Summer Squash Ravioli (pictured above), featured in Celebrate Magazine. Needless to say, it was a huge…
I recently hosted an evening dinner party where the meal and entertainment were to take place outside. An hour before…
There are many benefits to incorporating a trench coat into your business wardrobe. It will keep you stylishly dry on…
Wishing you a safe and happy 4th of July! Here’s a drink recipe that will get your party started, compliments…
The 4th of July is the perfect time to invite friends and family over for a backyard pool party. Whether you…
Throwing a dinner party is so much fun! A stylish host knows how to entertain her guests and still enjoy her…
Graduations have already taken place, but there are those that are still in search of the perfect graduation gift for…
In honor of Father’s Day, we are paying special homage to dads who are loving role models, there to offer support…
Preparing your son or daughter for college can be a daunting task. Between the dorm room checklist, family vacations and…
Question: “Hi Diane. My husband and I are invited to a “Texas Black Tie” Wedding. We are not sure what appropriate…
There is never a lull when it comes to wedding questions and I’m addressing a few that we have recently…
With summer right around the corner, every girl needs a well stocked makeup bag to get through the hot days…
Q: I am attending a wedding this spring, and wanted to know if I can get away with wearing my…
Baby showers are a wonderful way for friends and family to come together to celebrate an upcoming birth, and honor…
Cramped in a small, moving space with strangers calls for a special code of conduct. Follow these tips to keep…
You may be on fabulous terms with your in-laws, yet still find it difficult to spend extended periods of time…
Your professional wardrobe doesn’t have to be boring to communicate credibility in your field. You can wear clothes that send…
Most of us spend a great deal of time at our office desk, often hidden behind piles of documents and files,…
February 14th is traditionally marketed for celebrating love and romance, but don’t forget your girlfriends who deserve some attention too. Get inspired with these…
Super Bowl is only a few days away and the perfect excuse to throw a party. The invitations have been…
It’s not uncommon for wedding pictures to end up on other people’s social media pages before the bride and groom…
I am sharing a few things on my 2014 “to do” list. Some are left over from last year, other’s…
Kissing in general is a touchy subject! Do I kiss on a first date? (Go ahead!) Should I kiss and…
When you raise your glass at midnight this New Year’s Eve to toast the success of 2013, as well as…
As the holiday dinner nears and we all settle down to be with friends and family, I wanted to share…
With Christmas right around the corner, and a few names left on your list that haven’t been crossed off, it…
It’s that time of year again…when men and women start to panic, asking, “What do they mean by Black Tie?”…
It may be the most wonderful time of the year, but it can also be the most difficult when forced…
From invitations to decorations, I have put together a few of my favorite pins for throwing a holiday party. This…
November 29 is Black Friday! You either love it, or avoid it like the plague – it’s the day the…
Question: My brother and sister-in-law will be coming for a holiday visit, bringing their 5 kids, ranging in age from…
Watches are an essential part of a professional wardrobe, especially when you are working front and center with important clients….
As plans for cocktail parties and holiday dinners begin to take shape, it’s not too early to give some thought…
What better way to celebrate Fall than by hosting a Halloween party? You’ll surely find yourself in a festive spirit…
Here are a few ideas to get you started on your Halloween greetings: Make your own card. Buy some basic…
From pungent co-workers to self-proclaimed wine snobs, here is my latest installment of Q & A’s from our readers about…
Life is moving along, even when you’re not. Are you taking advantage of every opportunity? Here are a few business…
It’s officially Fall and time to start celebrating the new season. What better way than by planning a luncheon to catch…
Today is Friday the 13th and according to lore, both Friday and the number 13 are “unlucky.” Another superstition has…
NFL football season kicks off this weekend and football festivities are in full swing. Many people, including myself, are planning…
I’ve always been intrigued by front doors. Growing up, I would take note of unique doors and picture the people…
Just like every woman should have the perfect LBD (Little Black Dress) hanging in her closet, a great fitting pair…
Wedding etiquette questions received by our SA Living viewers, blog readers and social media friends: Q: It is a second…
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