It’s a sign…rules are a myth

 

Recently our family loaded up and headed south to one of our favorite spots, Tybee Island, Georgia (more on this glorious place in a later post.)

Tybee is just minutes South of another of our favorites – Savannah GA.  A quintessential southern city. Rich food, history, stunning architecture and lush squares lend themselves to Savannah’s charm.  Literature and Hollywood have also contributed to Savannah’s mystique.  Think Forest Gump and Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.  What’s not to love about Savannah? In our Missouri backyard we proudly display bird girl from Midnight.

Savannah is a true historic Southern city – deep rooted in tradition – but with a progressive attitude.  It’s the feel and attitude of this charming city that draws folks in and brings them back.  The approachable, creative energy in Savannah is contagious.  It’s easy to leave with an idea or two in your back pocket and breath in your creative lungs.  Savannah and it’s multicultural/multigenerational fusion fills the cobblestone streets with an air of nonchalant, welcoming nostalgia.

Also, as headquarters to Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), the city is embracing the talent, style and influence that SCAD brings to it’s southern table.  SCAD also has an international presence with campuses in France and Hong Kong.  The influence of SCAD is clear throughout the city of Savannah from restoration projects, the farm to table food movement, volunteerism and the overall hipster vibe.  It’s pink hair meets sear sucker suit and the romance feels good.

I am a big fan of vintage signs, typography and lettering. Savannah and it’s artistic lineage is ever -present in the examples of advertising that grace doorways and store fronts.  Opposites attract and often times they create a complimentary harmony.  The signs of Savannah are great examples.  From vintage signs to fresh new typography on store front doors, a peek into Savannah’s eclectic vibe is ever-present.

These signs and Savannah’s creative movement serve as a reminder that what was old, is new again.  Cultivating beauty in existing things is where it’s at.  Perhaps even cooler than dare we say…new.  Taking what you have and making it purposeful – making it work for you and your family is key.  It’s true of Savannah landmarks or a hutch handed down from your Grandma.  Our homes, our lives, are not catch-all drawers.  Consider things around your home that you own but never really use or enjoy anymore.  Would a coat of paint or new hardware change it’s appeal? –  then I say why not?  Give yourself permission to make your home your own.  Would it be riskier to ruin something or resent it for not being what you want or need?  Breathe new life into your space and I think you will find that one change or risk begets another.  It may not be perfect, but that could be exactly what you like the most about it.  From rearranging furniture or hanging new wall art, giving yourself decorating reign is empowering.  Stop being so hard on yourself – rules are a myth – have fun with your space.