The inspiration behind The Southern Trunk came from a childhood memory of discovering the treasures inside my parents� trunk�love letters, keepsakes, and pieces of their story. That magical experience sparked a desire to share not only what�s in my own trunk but the stories, memories, and treasures of others. From photography and travels to southern hospitality and thrifted gems, this blog highlights the simple, beautiful things that tell a greater story. My hope is that The Southern Trunk inspires you to see the everyday blessings that make life extraordinary.

Some moments are so perfect you wish you could relive them forever. One of mine was a surprise date Ian planned, complete with a sunset view, hot cocoa, and our favorite music�an evening so special we chose it as the backdrop for our engagement photos. It�s a reminder to savor the little moments in life and hold onto them just a little longer.

Our small back deck might not be large, but we turned it into a cozy retreat perfect for relaxing and entertaining. With clearance finds from Home Depot, jute-edged pillows, and string lights from Target, we created a versatile seating area that feels warm and inviting. A fire pit and space heater complete the setup, making it perfect for fall evenings. It may be simple, but it�s just right for enjoying the weather, good books, and time with friends.

Every year, Ian and I love hosting our small Christmas party, and this time, we brought back the iconic Tacky Christmas Sweaters. The highlight? A hilarious DIY photo booth featuring vintage lights, Dollar Store packaging paper, and the most random props (yes, including a Shake Weight). With hideously awesome chairs from Goodwill and tons of laughter, it was a festive night full of holiday cheer. It�s become a tradition we can�t wait to continue!

Christmas is my favorite season�not just for the parties and cheer, but for the joy of turning our home into a cozy winter wonderland filled with memories. Each decoration tells a story, whether it�s handmade ornaments, garland from our backyard, or little traditions like penguin ornaments from my mom. From burlap and champagne tones in the living room to our whimsical Grinch-themed kitchen tree, every corner reflects a blend of nostalgia and creativity. But the real magic is in the light�the kind that reminds us of Christ�s birth and the hope and love He brought into the world.

Our weekend getaway to Nashville was packed with incredible food, iconic sights, and plenty of music. From savoring handcrafted sodas at The Pharmacy to live bluegrass brunch at The Southern, every meal was unforgettable. We explored hotspots like 12th Avenue, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the famous Bluebird Cafe, soaking in the charm of this lively city. Whether it was jumping photos at the Pantheon or biscuits at Loveless Cafe, Nashville left us eager to return for more adventures!

A work trip to D.C. turned into a mini adventure as Ian and I explored the city together. From iconic landmarks like the White House and National Mall to the charming streets of Georgetown (where I fell in love with its Charleston-like vibes), every moment felt memorable. We balanced conference sessions with lobster dinners, awkward jumping photos, and delicious eats at Founding Farmers. D.C. left us with great memories�and the desire to come back for more!

Wrapping up our Italy adventure in Rome was the perfect finale. Despite our exhaustion, the city�s rich history and stunning architecture left us in awe, with ancient ruins providing a humbling reminder of the past. From unforgettable meals to cherished memories, Rome captured our hearts in a way only the Eternal City can.

Florence quickly became our favorite city in Italy, with its vibrant markets, incredible leather goods, and countless bistros serving unforgettable gelato and desserts. From watching the sunrise over Tuscany atop the Duomo to indulging in Florentine steak and exploring historic landmarks like the statue of David and Ponte Vecchio, every moment felt magical. Between the breathtaking views, rich history, and delicious food, it�s a city I can�t wait to revisit someday�hopefully with more time to explore Tuscany�s countryside.

Venice was everything I dreamed it would be�like stepping into a romantic Disney movie with music, canals, and colorful charm at every turn. Despite the struggle with our rolling luggage and navigating the busy train station, the moment we stepped into the sunlight and saw the city, it took my breath away. From leisurely rides on the Vaporetto to indulging in seafood pasta and way too much gelato (Ian�s three-a-day habit), Venice was pure magic.

We kicked off our adventure with breathtaking views from the Black Forest to the Swiss Alps, eventually landing in Milan�s glamorous streets. Along the way, we discovered hidden gems and unforgettable firsts that made the journey just as exciting as the destination. This is just the beginning�Venice is up next!

Dreaming of Italy since middle school, we finally turned it into reality with careful planning and a lot of learning along the way. From choosing destinations and booking trains to packing light and embracing cobblestone streets, we discovered firsthand what makes Italian travel unforgettable. If you�re thinking about making the trip, this guide shares everything we wish we had known�from hidden dining gems to the art of slowing down and savoring every moment.