Over my 15-year career, I have had the opportunity to travel the world in ways I could never have imagined as a child. In doing so, there have been several cities that I have returned to many times, as these are the cities that stay with me the longest, even after I leave.

These are the ones that inspire how I dress, the paint I choose for my house, the food I eat, the furniture I buy, my perfume, and my jewelry.


They influence the books I read, the stationary I own, and so many more things -- too many to list. Most importantly, they have all afforded me the opportunity to take the beautiful photographs of my children, Tim, and my family that cover the walls of our home. (After all, I will frame or tape a photograph anywhere -- no rules, just memories throughout.) I would love to take a little moment to share a couple of these special places with you.

Siena, Italy

Siena, Italy is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Centuries old and the home of the famous Palio, Tim and I are so impressed by this area of Tuscany that we named two of our dogs after the city and the Palio. The city has so much charm and history.
The center of the town square is actually a circle, a place that comes alive around 10:30 at night. Children go running about chasing birds, dogs, and one another before taking a break for a taste of the local gelato -- there’s even glow in the dark gelato to eat and enjoy!

Strangers become friends because of this familiar place, and as a young girl growing up in Mississippi, summer nights just like these in Italy are what I remember most of my hometown.

Granted, the town I grew up in did not have cobblestone anywhere in sight, and gelato, well, not something we even knew existed. But something happens in this town circle that feels like home. The locals are so kind and everyone knows everyone, which makes for a very close-knit place.

Maybe that is the attraction for me. Yes, the beauty of Siena -- a kind of beauty that will take your breath away every time -- is part of it. But more than anything else, it is the scene that I love: a centuries-old town full of warmth from its heritage and memorable people. This city, this town, I will always carry with me.

Paris, France

Paris, France is the most romantic city on earth. Tim and I have been there alone only once (taking the girls with us most times), and all but two of our many visits have been for work. But still, it doesn't matter -- Paris is an intoxicating place.
After it rains in the city, the cobblestone streets are left with a glitter that dances about, one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen. I prefer walking in this city, and I could do so for miles and never tire. The architecture of the buildings makes my brain ache for more knowledge of the history behind them all. As I walk, I don't miss a thing, from the numbers on the walls to lovely doors to gardens surrounded by the most interesting iron work I have ever laid my eyes on. There are beautiful gold accents that have to be polished daily in some places. I love the style of the people, the marble, and even the little gems tucked neatly in the corner of a building that sells the most expensive custom-made hats in the world.

Paris also has wonderful cafes with seats turned to face the streets, which are always occupied for the 11am-3pm siesta. They are full again after 10 pm, when the lights of Paris give the city an entirely new look. Gotta love that. There are incredible museums and libraries taking stock of the city’s rich history. There is nothing that reminds me of my childhood here -- well, I guess if I had dreamed of being a princess as a child, this would be the place in my dreams, but I never did that. I discovered Paris and its beauty because of my love for design. The passion of the city intertwined with Siena's warmth and my Mississippi roots make for a lethal combination that will forever inspire me.

No Matter Where I Am...

Truth be told, I take with me a little piece of every place I visit, no matter how simple or exotic. There is something about every place that is worth remembering, especially when I am with my family. Home is where they are. And home I carry everywhere.