The Big House

The Big House...... One word description is grandiose! Quiet, gentle breezes flow as we approach the mansion. I can only imagine the stories she holds. A peaceful feeling comes over me as I walk toward the entrance. In all it's grandeur, it is evident that the house was designed to offer the best views of the grounds and river in addition to providing elegant comfort for her guests.

The mansion on the plantation was built by George Swainey between 1837 and 1839 for Jacques Telesphore Roman. Jacques' father-in-law, Joseph Pilie, was an architect and is considered the likely designer. The house was originally named Bon Séjour (which I believe means "Good Stay"). You see....most southerners are always considerate of their guests and want them to enjoy their stay. How many times have you stayed in your grandmother's home or any other elegant southern lady's and found a carafe of water by your bed, books, crisp linen guest towels and a comfortable bed dressed in pressed cotton or linen sheets?! The mansion has a square floor plan, organized around a central hall that runs from the front to the rear on both floors. Open doors encourage air flow through out the house while the 13ft deep wrap-around veranda provides shade and spectacular views from every direction. Posted by Valerie

I love that dress!

I love that dress! I'm fine, how are you Sugah...well, bless your heart.....a Southern exchange of warm conversation between two Southern ladies. I personally find that most Southern ladies have a gift for making someone feel comfortable and readily praise a lovely garment, admire fine china and are in awe of sterling silver. As a child, a young southern girl was taught grace, values and manners in order to grow up to be refined, gracious and selfless women. In reference to others, who are not Southern, a quote from Margaret Mitchell's Gone With The Wind..,"They are pretty much like Southerners - except with worse manners, of course, and terrible accents."

Posted by Valerie

I've Got My Eye On You!

Welcome to Oak Alley Plantation, y'all! It's sooo nice to have you here! Everyone was all smiles, especially the guys, as we were warmly greeted by charming "Southern Belles". Maggie, familiar with such charm... a true "Southern lady", herself, decided to "keep an eye" on the situation. The "Southern Belles", draped in lovely period clothing, were as adequately groomed on the inside to deliver a warm and sincere welcome.

Rules of the Southern Belle
-Never wear white shoes before Easter or after Labor Day except is if it is a bride. -Thank you notes are a necessary component of being gracious and appreciative.-Never chew gum or smoke on the street.-Never show anger in public. Smile and act like a lady.-Act helpless and confused when it's to your advantage; never let them know how clever and capable you really are...-Charm, Charm, Charm.-Be elegant and graceful.

Posted by Valerie

Rollin' On The River...

Making a decision of adding accessories to a travel wardrobe is never easy...for me anyway! I feel they all are essential, but have to narrow it down to a few special pieces. Soon, I'll be Rollin on the River with my hubby and close friends...wish you could have made this trip, Gale! In New Orleans, we will board the grand Great American Queen Steamboat for a cruise down the mighty Mississippi. I can feel it now-all that southern charm and elegance...why I may wish I'd worn a hoop skirt and change my name to Scarlett!
posted by Vee