Mardi Gras at Acorn Cottage: The Front Door

I wanted to share a closer look at the Mardi Gras decorations surrounding our front door, especially since I’ve had so many questions about where everything came from. One of my favorite parts of decorating for Carnival is sourcing pieces from local artists and small businesses—it makes the display feel even more meaningful.

The Mardi Gras blooms (or float flowers) are from three incredibly talented local artists: Brian Bush of Carnival Sculpture, Dana Charpiro, and Lauren Jahncke Leonard (@laurenleonardart). Their work brings such color, texture, and personality to the space, and I love knowing each bloom was made with care right here in Louisiana.

The ball garland was a custom order purchased from the now-closed Hilltop Shoppe- pieces I truly treasure. The papier-mâché king cake wreath is by Gwen Markovich of Dats Awtsy and is always a conversation starter. The finishing touches, including the ribbons and crown charm, came from The Red Onion in Baton Rouge.

Completing the look is a custom doormat ordered through Old Estate in my hometown of Thibodaux, Louisiana—because it wouldn’t feel right without a little hometown love at the front door.

Supporting small businesses and local artists is always important to me, and Mardi Gras season is the perfect time to celebrate their creativity. After all, Carnival is about color, joy, tradition—and community. 

Shut the Mardi Gras door, y'all!

Honey is 80!

 Last night, family and friends gathered to celebrate a very special milestone—our beloved matriarch, Honey, who recently turned 80 years young. 

We came together at Politz’s, a longtime favorite in our hometown of Thibodaux, Louisiana, and the setting couldn’t have been more perfect. The evening was filled with good food, delicious cocktails, and a truly yummy cake worthy of such a milestone. But more than anything, it was the company that made the night unforgettable.

Stories were shared, laughter echoed around the table, and conversations flowed as easily as the drinks. It was one of those nights where time slows down just enough to remind you how special it is to be surrounded by people you love.

Honey’s 80th wasn’t just a birthday—it was a celebration of family, friendship, memories, and a life well lived. The perfect soiree for a woman who means so much to so many. 

Honey is 80, y'all!

Mardi Gras at Acorn Cottage: Blooms of Carnival

There’s something about the Mardi Gras season that draws me toward color—bold, joyful, and full of life. Each year, I find myself naturally gravitating to blooms that echo the iconic hues of Carnival.

From the vibrant purples of silk irises glowing in the sunroom to the cheerful pansies planted throughout the garden in shades of purple, yellow (gold), and white, these flowers feel like a celebration all on their own. They capture the spirit of the season effortlessly, blending nature’s beauty with festive tradition.

These blooms do more than decorate a space—they breathe life into it. Paired with my Carnival décor, they add softness, movement, and a sense of renewal that only flowers can bring. Whether indoors or out, they remind me that Mardi Gras isn’t just about parades and beads; it’s also about color, joy, and the simple beauty found in the season around us.

As Carnival unfolds, these blossoms serve as a quiet but vibrant reminder that celebration can be found in the smallest details—sometimes right in our own gardens.

Did you even guess that the blooms were faux? I like to mix the faux with live greens such as ivy. Faux blooms have come a very long way.

Blooms of Carnival, y'all!