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Daphne: A Nashville Home Store with Heart, Color & Personality
Daphne: A Nashville Home Store with Heart, Color & Personality

Style Blueprint

time14 hours ago

  • Lifestyle
  • Style Blueprint

Daphne: A Nashville Home Store with Heart, Color & Personality

Share with your friends! Pinterest LinkedIn Email Flipboard Reddit Tucked inside Nashville's L&L Marketplace, on Charlotte Avenue, there's a home decor store that feels like the cozy living room of a well-traveled friend — layered, charming, and filled with stories. It's called Daphne, and it's the namesake of Owner Will Joyce's mother. She encouraged her children to embrace life's quirks and celebrate what makes them unique. That philosophy radiates through every corner of Will's shop and design style. Pin Pin A Design Journey Rooted in Nashville Will's interior design journey started in 1996 at Ethan Allen in Nashville. He went on to spend 17 years at Sprintz, honing his craft, learning the ins and outs of sourcing, styling, and what truly speaks to a home. 'I always wanted my own shop,' Will shares. 'And in 2018, I decided if I didn't jump into this booming Nashville economy, I might never do it.' That leap of faith became Daphne, which opened just before the pandemic. Like all things home-related, it thrived. 'People were investing in their homes again,' he says. 'It gave me the chance to create a space where everyone could find something they love.' Unapologetically Personal Style Will's design eye favors the bold and layered. 'I love color, pattern, and texture,' he says. 'I never embraced the gray-on-gray trend. I like when a room reflects personality — not something that looks like anyone could live there.' That philosophy carries over into how he buys for Daphne. 'The safest things I buy sit here the longest,' he laughs. 'But bring in a bold floral sofa? It sells. People connect emotionally with pieces that stand out.' He encourages customers to design for themselves, not their sister-in-law, best friend, or what's trending on social media. 'If it makes you smile when you walk in the door, then it's the right choice.' Pin Pin A Store with Soul and Discovery Around Every Corner While most of the pieces at Daphne are new, Will curates them to feel storied. A chest with an antique finish, a pair of revamped boudoir lamps he turned into works of art, and even a vintage science lab table with loads of character are all examples of his unexpected finds. 'I'm always drawn to pieces that feel a little weirdly wonderful,' he says. There's also a strong local thread running through the store. Nashville artist Robin Wolfenden's cyanotype prints — created by laying foliage on sun-sensitive paper and letting nature do the work — adorn note cards, wine bags, and large-scale art. Another local artist, Marla Fate, brings silk-based collage wall hangings to life with mixed media and ancient Buddhist art references. And don't miss Will's creative wall hack — a whimsical cluster of vintage-looking postage stamp stickers that artfully covers nail holes and adds a dash of surprise. Pin Pin More Than a Store — A Designer's Playground For those who wander in needing just the right finishing touch or furniture for a new space, Daphne is only the beginning. Will is an interior designer with access to nearly every major furniture line — even the elusive high-end ones. But here's where his experience shines: 'Sometimes I can get something for half the price just by knowing the right vendor to call,' he explains. And, he passes those savings onto his clients. He approaches design as a true collaboration, guiding clients toward spaces that reflect who they are. 'If I can get in the door and pull what they really want out of them, that's where the magic happens,' he says. Pin Pin Why You Should Visit Daphne Today The shop feels a bit like a European apartment layered with history and color. 'One of my inspirations is that crusty wall from The King's Speech — the way texture builds over time,' Will says. 'I want this store to feel like that, full of layers and life.' Whether you're looking for a unique accent piece, a conversation-starting sofa, or the perfect gift, Daphne delivers an experience far beyond a typical retail outing. It's where design feels joyful, approachable, and just a little bit fearless — like the best homes always do. Say hi to Will, as he's usually in the shop. Just don't be surprised if you lose track of time talking about color, cats, quirky art, and the beauty of mixing old with new. Because at Daphne, the design is personal, and that's exactly what makes it so special. ********** Start your day with a smile – add StyleBlueprint to your inbox! Sign up for emails here. About the Author Liza Graves As CEO of StyleBlueprint, Liza also regularly writes for SB. Most of her writing is now found in the recipe archives as cooking is her stress relief!

15 Southern Events & Happenings: July 2025
15 Southern Events & Happenings: July 2025

Style Blueprint

time2 days ago

  • Entertainment
  • Style Blueprint

15 Southern Events & Happenings: July 2025

Share with your friends! 273 SHARES 3 Pinterest LinkedIn Email Flipboard Reddit Get ready for a fun-filled summer! From family-friendly festivals to epic fireworks displays and live music under the stars, here are the top Southern events happening across the region this July. July 3 & 4, 2025: Happy Birthday America — Staunton, VA Staunton's Happy Birthday America celebration returns to Gypsy Hill Park with a full slate of free, family-friendly events including a parade, Firecracker 5K, carnival games, food vendors, live music from Wilson Fairchild, and a fireworks finale on Independence Day. July 4, 2025: Music City Hot Chicken Festival — Nashville, TN The Music City Hot Chicken Festival at East Park kicks off with a fire truck parade at 10:30 a.m. The free event also includes hot chicken from top local spots, cold Yazoo beer, food vendors, live local music, and an amateur hot chicken cook‑off. The all‑ages, rain‑or‑shine event benefits Metro Parks & Recreation. July 4, 2025: Bicentennial Independence Day Celebration — Vicksburg, MS Vicksburg's Bicentennial Independence Day Celebration lights up Downtown Vicksburg. From 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., you can enjoy live music from country artist William Michael Morgan and the longest fireworks show in Mississippi — which has been made even bigger for the city's 200th year! July 4, 2025: Thunder on the Mountain — Birmingham, AL Birmingham's Thunder on the Mountain lights up Red Mountain with Alabama's largest fireworks show, choreographed to music and launched from Vulcan Park. The event is free to the public, with a new VIP Viewing Party option available from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. July 4 & 5, 2025: 46th Annual Festival for the Eno — Durham, NC The Festival for the Eno returns at West Point, featuring over 65 musical acts across four stages — including Dom Flemons and Empire Strikes Brass — alongside a juried craft fair, food trucks, craft beer and cider gardens, and riverfront fun. Tickets are $35 per day or $65 for a two-day pass. July 4 – 6, 2025: All-American Weekend — Memphis, TN Graceland's All-American Weekend returns with an all-out celebration of the King, complete with live music, after-hours mansion tours, tribute shows, a gospel brunch, and a fireworks spectacular synced to Elvis hits on July 5. Many events are free, with ticketed options available for special experiences and hotel packages at The Guest House at Graceland. To see the complete schedule of events, visit July 5, 12, 19, & 26, 2025: Nashville Zoo's Summer Splash — Nashville, TN The Summer Splash series at Nashville Zoo transforms Festival Field into a refreshing water wonderland every Saturday in July and August. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the event includes splash attractions, themed animal enrichment activities, and educational talks on how animals stay cool. Admission is included with regular zoo entry. July 12, 2025: Summer Cocktail Festival — Memphis, TN Featuring summer-inspired libations, DJ music, food trucks, and fun photo ops, this annual event at The Kent benefits Volunteer Memphis while bringing together local restaurants, spirits, and residents. Tickets start at $49 and include 12 cocktail tastings. July 12, 2025: JTown Summer Beer Fest — Jeffersontown, KY Celebrate Louisville's local beer scene at the JTown Summer Beer Fest. The 9th annual festival features over 100 craft beers, wines, and seltzers, complemented by live music from two stages, a DJ, food trucks, and local vendors. Tickets are $45 in advance or $55 at the gate, and all attendees must be 21+. July 14 – 20, 2025: Louisville Burger Week — Louisville, KY Calling all burger enthusiasts! Louisville Burger Week returns with specialty burgers at dozens of local restaurants across Louisville. The official app allows diners to check in at participating spots, earning points toward prizes and a chance to win a grand prize of $300 in gift cards and an 'Ultimate Grilling Package' from the Kentucky Beef Council. July 17 – 20, 2025: Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands — Asheville, NC The Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands returns to Asheville at Harrah's Cherokee Center, showcasing over 100 juried artists from across the Southern Appalachian region. The fair features a diverse array of handmade crafts, including pottery, textiles, jewelry, and woodwork, along with live demonstrations and performances. Admission is $12 for adults, with free entry for children under 12. July 24 – 26, 2025: Hot Summer Nights — Austin, TX Austin's Hot Summer Nights transforms the Red River Cultural District into a vibrant, free, three-day music and arts festival. Over 100 local and national artists perform across more than a dozen iconic venues, including Stubb's, Mohawk, Swan Dive, and Cheer Up Charlies, with music starting around 7 p.m. nightly. July 25 – 27, 2025: Natchez Food & Wine Festival — Natchez, MS The Natchez Food & Wine Festival is an exciting event full of chef dinners, wine tastings, craft brews, mixology classes, and live music at historic homes and scenic riverfront venues. Events are ticketed individually, with highlights like Friday's Tastings Along the River, bourbon pairings, and multi-course dinners starting. July 26, 2025: Sweetgrass Festival — Mount Pleasant, SC The annual Sweetgrass Festival returns to Mount Pleasant's Memorial Waterfront Park on July 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., celebrating the Gullah Geechee traditions of sweetgrass basketry with live weaving demos, educational sessions, music, and a craft market showcasing local artisans. July 26, 2025: Atlanta Ice Cream Festival — Atlanta, GA The Atlanta Ice Cream Festival at Piedmont Park invites attendees of all ages to indulge in a variety of treats from 85+ local vendors. Plus, enjoy live music, family-fun activities, a wellness zone with fitness demos and health screenings, and food and vendor booths. The event is free to attend. Here's to a fabulous July! ********** To see more great Southern events, visit our Happenings calendar. About the Author Anne Marie Hanna Anne Marie is the Marketing & Editorial Coordinator at StyleBlueprint, where she helps tell the stories shaping the South. Outside of work, you'll likely find her on a porch with a coffee and a good book, gardening, listening to music, or enjoying time with friends and family.

20 Nashville Events in July 2025
20 Nashville Events in July 2025

Style Blueprint

time2 days ago

  • Entertainment
  • Style Blueprint

20 Nashville Events in July 2025

Summer is in full swing, and Nashville is alive with can't-miss celebrations. From Fourth of July fireworks to live music, food festivals, rooftop parties, and family-friendly fun, July is packed with standout events. Here are some of our favorite ways to soak up the season in Music City. July 1 – 3, 18 – 20 & 22 – 27, 2025: Nashville Sounds Home Games Cheer on your Nashville Sounds in July as they go head-to-head with Memphis, Indianapolis, and Charlotte. On July 3, join the Sounds for a special Independence Day celebration at the ballpark filled with fun, fireworks, and a showdown with the Redbirds. As always, this month's schedule offers a variety of promotional nights, including Throwback Thursday and Sunday Family Fun Day. To see the complete schedule and purchase tickets, visit July 4, 2025: Red, White, & Boom Celebrate July Fourth at Adventure Science Center's Red, White, & Boom event, complete with interactive exhibits, live science and magic shows, outdoor games, food trucks, and DJ-backed fireworks starting at 9:30 p.m. Tickets begin at $45 for adults and $35 for kids. (Note: Planetarium combos and member discounts are also available.) July 4, 2025: 4th of July Rooftop Party Fairlane Hotel's 4th of July rooftop party is a 21+ bash featuring a backyard BBQ buffet, an open bar, live music, terrace seating, and stunning downtown fireworks views. General-admission tickets are $360 per person, which includes 20% gratuity and the option to stay overnight at the hotel. July 4, 2025: Let Freedom Sing! Music City July 4th Downtown Nashville's Let Freedom Sing! Music City July 4th lights up from noon to 10 p.m., with free live music all afternoon (including headliner Dierks Bentley, plus Russell Dickerson, Niko Moon, Grace Bowers, Keesha Rainey and more), a family‑friendly Amazon Fun Zone, food trucks, and one of the nation's largest fireworks and drone shows synced to the Grammy‑winning Nashville Symphony at Ascend Amphitheater. July 4, 2025: 19th Annual Music City Hot Chicken Festival The Music City Hot Chicken Festival at East Park kicks off with a fire truck parade at 10:30 a.m. The free event also includes hot chicken from top local spots, cold Yazoo beer, food vendors, live local music, and an amateur hot chicken cook‑off. The all‑ages, rain‑or‑shine event benefits Metro Parks & Recreation. July 4, 2025: Free as a Bird: 4th of July VIP Celebration High above downtown at Rare Bird, the Free as a Bird: 4th of July VIP Celebration takes flight at 7 p.m., with exclusive rooftop seating, a top‑shelf open bar, premium food stations and passed appetizers, a live DJ, and unbeatable views of fireworks. (Note: This event is 21+.) July 4, 2025: Music City July 4th 5K The Music City July 4th 5K kicks off from Centennial Park with a scenic, all-ages run/walk past iconic Nashville landmarks. Runners receive a commemorative medal and participant tee, with a free Kids Fun Run for ages 5 and under, plus a dog-friendly option. July 4, 2025: The Emo Cowgirl 4th of July Celebrate Independence Day at The Emo Cowgirl 4th of July rooftop pop‑up at L27. The event includes live music, themed cocktails (like the 'Am I Okay?' with Bacardi, lemon, and blueberry), festive bites, and unbeatable views of the Nashville Symphony-synchronized fireworks. Tickets start at $30. July 4, 2025: 4th of July at Play Playground This Independence Day, head to one of downtown Nashville's most vibrant rooftops for an unforgettable night of games, music, and skyline views. Play Playground's immersive party experience includes bold cocktails, nostalgic games, and a live DJ spinning all night. Choose from VIP or General Admission options, both offering rooftop access, epic entertainment, and a front-row seat to the fireworks! July 4, 2025: Fourth of July Pool Party Conrad Nashville's Fourth of July Pool Party splashes into the hotel's stunning terrace-top pool deck at 10 a.m., featuring refreshing drinks, a festive buffet, and DJ tunes. Tickets are available via July 4, 2025: All-American July 4th Bash Buffet Just an hour from Nashville at Wildwood Resort & Marina in Granville, TN, the July 4th All‑American Bash Buffet kicks off at 5 p.m. Enjoy everything from live music to a lakeside buffet and family-friendly activities. Admission is $29.99 for adults and $14.99 for kids 12 and younger. The regular food menu is also available. July 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2025: Nashville Zoo's Summer Splash The Summer Splash series at Nashville Zoo transforms Festival Field into a refreshing water wonderland every Saturday in July and August. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the event includes splash attractions, themed animal enrichment activities, and educational talks on how animals stay cool. Admission is included with regular zoo entry. July 5, 2025: All You Need is Love Concert Cheekwood's rescheduled All You Need is Love Concert with renowned Beatles tribute band, Forever Abbey Road, takes place on July 5 at 6 p.m. From beloved hits like 'Hey Jude' to 'Come Together,' this nostalgic evening offers a dynamic tribute for all ages. July 6, 2025: Star Wars: Under The Stars Star Wars: Under the Stars with the Nashville Symphony lands at Ascend Amphitheater. Featuring conductor Nathan Aspinall, you can hear epic scores from across the Star Wars saga, like 'The Phantom Menace Suite,' 'The Rise of Skywalker: The Speeder Chase,' and more. Tickets start at $32. July 11 & 12, 2025: Celebration of Summer Jam at Watkins Glen The Celebration of Summer Jam at Watkins Glen hits Analog at the Hutton Hotel this month. The 21+ throwback celebration of the iconic 1973 festival features music by the Allman Brothers Band, Grateful Dead, and the Band. Tickets start at $15. July 12, 2025: Summer Fest Summer Fest at the Nashville Farmers' Market bursts into life on July 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The free, family‑friendly celebration features live music by The Nashville Band, a kids' zone with pony rides and a petting zoo, cooking demos with tastings, Aztec dance performances, and more. July 12, 2025: Wine Tasting: France vs. Italy On July 12, Yolan at The Joseph hosts 'Wine Tasting: France vs. Italy,' a guided showdown featuring four curated French and Italian wines paired with cheeses. Tickets are $85 per person, July 16, 2025: SOMMer Camp: French Riviera + Post Bastille Day Celebration Miel Restaurant hosts a wine-tasting journey that features Pastis cocktails, curated wines like Domaine Tempier Blanc, and guided pairings in the restaurant's open-air barn event space. Tickets start at $75 per person. July 17, 2025: Daddy's Dogs x Liquor Lab: ''Tinis and Weenies' In honor of National Hot Dog Day and Daddy's Dogs' 10th anniversary, Liquor Lab Nashville and Daddy's Dogs are teaming up to pair three creative martinis with hot dogs. Tickets are $65 per person. July 25, 2025: Fish Fry-Day at the Loveless Barn The Loveless Barn's annual Fish Fry‑Day features a Southern buffet, refreshments, bounce houses, carnival games, face painting, balloon art, live music, and a signature cocktail bar. Adult tickets are $29.99, while children's tickets (ages 5-12) are $14.99. July 26, 2025: Mid-Summer Night's Dream Party W Nashville's Mid‑Summer Night's Dream Party lights up PROOF Rooftop on July 26 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Guests are invited to dress in white for an electrifying night with a live DJ, stunning skyline views, craft cocktails, and a chic indoor‑outdoor vibe. Tickets are available via Have an amazing July, Nashville! ********** To see even more great Nashville events, visit our Happenings calendar. About the Author Anne Marie Hanna Anne Marie is the Marketing & Editorial Coordinator at StyleBlueprint, where she helps tell the stories shaping the South. Outside of work, you'll likely find her on a porch with a coffee and a good book, gardening, listening to music, or enjoying time with friends and family.

8 Reasons to Visit Greenwood, MS This Season
8 Reasons to Visit Greenwood, MS This Season

Style Blueprint

time2 days ago

  • Style Blueprint

8 Reasons to Visit Greenwood, MS This Season

Share with your friends! Pinterest LinkedIn Email Flipboard Reddit Set in a storied landscape of the Mississippi Delta, Greenwood, MS, welcomes you with the sounds of the blues, the flavors of the South, and a powerful legacy of history and heart. From Civil Rights landmarks to soulful eats and historic shops, this charming town invites visitors to slow down and tune in. Here are eight reasons why Greenwood should top your must-visit list this season. 1. Arrive by Train: Let the Journey Set the Rhythm Start your Greenwood experience the moment you board the Amtrak train. This historic route connects travelers to Civil Rights destinations like Memphis, TN, Jackson, MS, and New Orleans, LA — and Greenwood is a proud stop along the way. The train winds through scenic routes, offering glimpses of cotton fields, river bends, and rural towns, making the journey just as memorable as the destination. Pin 2. Stay at The Alluvian: Boutique Luxury, Delta Style After your train ride, drop your bags off and check in at The Alluvian. The beautifully restored boutique hotel offers elegant guest rooms and curated local art. Plus, its sense of calm sophistication sets the tone for a relaxing stay. Pin Need to unwind? Book a service at the hotel's luxurious 7,000-square-foot spa, which offers massages, facials, body scrubs, and manicures. After your spa treatment, visit the hotel's restaurant, Giardina's, for a delicious meal. With scenic courtyard views and a state-of-the-art kitchen designed by world-renowned architects, it's the perfect blend of elegance and modern comfort. Standout menu items include the eight-ounce burger, chicken parmigiana, Delta catfish filet, and pan-roasted mahi. And don't forget the expertly crafted cocktails! The Alluvian is also home to the Viking Cooking School, where guests of all skill levels can sharpen their culinary talents using state-of-the-art Viking equipment. Whether you're a beginner, an experienced chef, or just love to entertain, classes offer something for everyone — from basic techniques to hosting tips and hands-on courses in global cuisines, baking, and more. Pin 3. Dine at Serio's Italian Steakhouse: A Southern Take on Old-World Elegance For a fine-dining experience, book a table at Serio's Italian Steakhouse. Set in a classic, white-tablecloth atmosphere, the restaurant serves delicious filets and ribeye alongside Italian favorites like fettuccine alfredo, ravioli, lasagna, and shrimp scampi. Or, if you're feeling creative, you can build your own pizza or pasta dish. (Pro tip: Save room for dessert!) Pin 4. Discover Delta Flavors at Fan & Johnny's Another fantastic local dining option is Fan & Johnny's, the brainchild of James Beard-nominated Chef Taylor Bowen-Ricketts. The restaurant serves weekday lunch and offers a mouthwatering dinner menu Wednesday through Friday. They are also known for their unique BYOB (bring-your-own-beverage) policy. Here, Southern staples receive a creative and modern twist. The menu includes everything from po' boys to catfish and tamales. And the house-made bread pudding? Worth the trip alone. Pin 5. Step Into the Past at the Museum of the Mississippi Delta History buffs will enjoy spending an afternoon at the Museum of the Mississippi Delta, which takes a deep dive into local art, history, and nature. In addition to permanent exhibits that explore military and agricultural history as well as the life of the town's founder, Greenwood Leflore, the museum recently introduced a new exhibit, The Guitar and a Changing Nation. Running through the end of September 2025, the exhibit invites visitors to learn about the guitar's impact on musical genres like rock 'n' roll and the blues. It also dives deep into the famous blues legend of 'The Crossroads,' which suggests musicians would sell their souls for fame and wealth. Pin 6. Explore Trail Markers That Changed the Nation Greenwood sits at the intersection of powerful trails: the Mississippi Blues Trail, the Mississippi Country Music Trail, and the Mississippi Freedom Trail. For example, the B.B. King Birthplace marker honors the legendary blues musician, highlighting his early childhood in Mississippi's Leflore County and continuing through the height of his musical career. Pin Part of the Mississippi Country Music Trail, the Bobbie Gentry marker offers a glimpse into the legendary musician's life and legacy. She spent most of her childhood growing up in Greenwood and went on to create multiple number-one hits, including 'Ode to Billie Joe,' as well as popular albums like The Delta Sweete. Bryant's Grocery, located about 10 miles outside of town, is also a frequent stop along the Mississippi Freedom Trail. Here, you'll find the ruins of Bryant's Grocery & Meat Market, where, in 1955, the store's owner falsely claimed that 14-year-old Emmett Till whistled at her and touched her waist. This set off a series of events that led to Emmett's brutal murder, which ultimately became a catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement. Pin 7. Visit the Emmett Till Memorial Statue: A Place for Remembrance Back in downtown Greenwood is a statue honoring Emmett Till. Unveiled in 2022, the statue is the only official U.S. statue that honors Till. This powerful memorial stands as a poignant reminder of the struggle for civil rights and the lasting impact of Emmett's story. Pin 8. Enjoy an Afternoon of Shopping in Downtown Greenwood Be sure to carve out an hour or two to stroll through Greenwood's historic downtown. Home to a diverse collection of unique local shops, boutiques, and eateries, you'll find everything from clothing to accessories, home goods, and more. Popular stores include Delta Boutique & Gifts, The Mississippi Gift Company, Monograms & More, Delta Emporium & Events, and Fincher's Inc. Pin From historic markers and moving memorials to memorable meals and hands-on experiences, Greenwood is more than just a stop on the map — it's a place to feel the pulse of the Delta. And with Greenwood's custom interactive map, you can easily explore over 300 curated attractions within an hour's drive. Stay in Greenwood and discover the stories that shaped the South. This article is sponsored by Visit Greenwood, MS. About the Author Brianna Goebel Brianna is StyleBlueprint's Associate Editor and Sponsored Content Manager. She is an avid fan of iced coffee and spends her free time reading romance novels.

Auburn's New Summer Chef Series Has an All-Female Roster!
Auburn's New Summer Chef Series Has an All-Female Roster!

Style Blueprint

time3 days ago

  • Entertainment
  • Style Blueprint

Auburn's New Summer Chef Series Has an All-Female Roster!

Share with your friends! Pinterest LinkedIn Email Flipboard Reddit Just because Auburn University students have packed up their books for summer break doesn't mean things have cooled off at 1856 — Culinary Residence. In fact, the heat is definitely on. This fine-dining gem, housed within the Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management, is keeping the burners hot with the launch of its third annual summer chef series, showcasing the talents of three renowned female chefs from around the South. Pin MARK YOUR CALENDARS! Each chef's three-night residency at 1856 will feature carefully curated menus that reflect their personal culinary philosophies. Think of it as a crash course in the South's most exciting kitchens, without ever leaving Auburn. Reservations are available now through the 1856 – Culinary Residence website. SB Tip: Make a weekend of it and stay at The Laurel Hotel & Spa, where Auburn hospitality students receive immersive training! July 10 – 12: Chef Lauren Windham First up is Chef Lauren Windham, an Auburn alum who's basically culinary royalty at this point. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America in Napa Valley and winning Food Network's Chopped in 2022, Lauren crisscrossed the country honing her skills before launching her own private chef business in Winter Park, FL. Now, she's coming home to Auburn to show off what she's been cooking up. Spoiler: it's going to be spectacular. July 17 – 19: Chef Maureen Holt The second week brings Chef Maureen Holt, whose name might sound familiar to Birmingham foodies. She was the chef and co-owner of the beloved Little Savannah and now runs Southern Graze, a catering company focused on soulful, Southern-inspired cuisine. But Maureen isn't just about feeding folks; she's also deeply involved in culinary education and mentorship through her work with nonprofits and Les Dames d'Escoffier. Expect warmth, wisdom, and wickedly good eats. July 24 – 26: Chef Aneesha Hargrave Rounding out the month is Chef Aneesha Hargrave, a Johnson & Wales grad whose résumé includes stints with Chopt and Impossible Foods. Her food is rooted in heritage, community, and flavor that tells a story. Aneesha will soon head up the culinary programs at the much-anticipated Elevation Convening Center and Hotel in Montgomery, AL. But before she takes on that adventure, she's bringing her bold, thoughtful approach to Auburn for a can't-miss culinary experience. ********** To stay in the know on the best ways to drink and dine your way through the South, subscribe to StyleBlueprint. About the Author Jenna Bratcher Jenna Bratcher is StyleBlueprint Nashville's Associate Editor and Lead Writer. The East Coast native moved to Nashville 17 years ago, by way of Los Angeles. She is a lover of dogs, strong coffee, traveling, and exploring the local restaurant scene bite by bite.

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