The Greenbrier, Take One

This weekend was not only fun, but it was also educational. I learned so, so much from Mr. Varney himself. If you have ever been to or read about the Greenbrier you know it is very rich in history. I loved learning about every last detail from the best of the best. Perhaps the thing that Mr. Varney said that really got me thinking was this:

"What is the very first room you remember?"

Can you recall? Well, I bet you never would have guessed that the first you room you can recall defines the style you have today. Mr. Varney pointed this out to us first thing Saturday morning and really got my thinking. While I very faintly remember my 1987 nursery in Americus, GA I can almost perfectly remember our living room in Memphis, TN circa 1989. There were two beautiful floral wing back chairs and a beautiful navy blue velvet sofa. There were many lovely accessories throughout too. This room proves Carlton's Varney's statement to be true. I am a traditionalist when it comes to decorating and I love floral chintz, blue (and white) everywhere and LOTS of accessories (these are what make a room and a home). I could recreate this room today, 21 years later, and I would just love it! This was just one of the lessons learned on Saturday; isn't it fascinating?

After a morning of learning and a delicious lunch (I got to sit with some of Mr. Varney's St. Croix clients!) we strolled the grounds before tea. Above, I am fresh out of the sun waiting for Mr. Varney himself to sign my books. I am sitting in a Fudge Apron wingback chair in the Victorian Writing room (or the most photographed room in America as Mr. Varney would say). Do you know where the name Fudge Apron comes from? Dorothy Draper gave this fabric the quirky name because it reminded her of a Nana's apron. After a busy day in the kitchen any Nana was sure to have had a "fudge" of all foods of all colors on her apron...thus was born this famed print!

Before signing my book Mr. Carleton Varney remembered me from our lunch Dallas- I was BEYOND honored! He is such a kind yet charismatic person. Mr. Varney is the type that always makes you feel like the only person in the room. He is one of a kind!

Before singing my books Carleton Varney also asked me if I was an interior designer...apparently I have the look. Again, I was so touched and honored!
Don't you love the scarf tie which Mr. Varney is known for? What an amazing opportunity this past weekend was! I cannot wait for Carleton Varney to return to Dallas in the next few months. I will clear by schedule and will be waiting in a floral dress with all ears open!
PS- I do want to hear what the first room you can remember is. Does Mr. Varney's point prove true for you too?