Hello friends, it’s been a while.

After some time away, it felt like the right moment to pop back in, say hello, and introduce a place where I’ll be sharing more intentional, thoughtful content. If you’ve been part of HOUSE of HARPER from the beginning, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your continued support. It means more than you know!

A Little Backstory for Context

I launched HOUSE of HARPER in 2011 while working in fashion in New York City. What started as a simple weekend side project grew quickly, thanks to those early blogging days when the internet felt cozy, personal, and full of possibility. By 2013, blogging became my full-time job, and as life evolved, becoming a mom, moving back to Texas, settling into a new season, the content evolved along with me.

After nearly a decade of sharing, the fast pace of social media stopped feeling enjoyable, and I found myself craving more privacy and a slower rhythm. What I thought would be an extended maternity leave in 2020 turned into a five-year pause that gave me a chance to fully embrace motherhood, deepen my faith, volunteer, rest, and rediscover what creativity looked like offline.

During that time, I found a new creative outlet in interior design. It let me keep dreaming, styling, and creating just with more quiet, more balance, and far less time in front of a screen. Keeping my client list small allowed me to learn at my own pace and enjoy the process along the way. (Before anyone asks, I am sorry, but I am not currently taking any new clients.)

Why I’m Writing Again and Why Substack

Over the last year, I felt a gentle nudge to return to writing; the kind of writing that feels unhurried, honest, and rooted in connection rather than algorithms. That led me to create The Front Porch, my new Substack newsletter.

It felt like the perfect name.
The front porch is where conversations start. Where you wave to neighbors, sip your coffee, and exhale after a long day. Where stories unfold slowly, and nothing needs to be polished to be meaningful.

That’s the tone I want to return to: simple, heartfelt storytelling, more like letters from a friend than curated posts.

What You’ll Find There

On The Front Porch, I’ll be sharing:

• A slower creative rhythm that respects space, intention, and real life
• Weekly(ish) reflections from life as a 40-something mom in Texas
• Thoughts on motherhood, business, home, and finding the beauty in everyday moments
• Curated favorites, gift guides, seasonal inspiration, and rituals I love
• Occasional interviews with women who inspire me

No fancy photoshoot, no flashy announcement or PR push, just a soft, simple restart.

A Quick Note About Your Subscription

If you previously subscribed to HOUSE of HARPER email updates, your subscription has already been moved to Substack, so you’ll continue receiving my new posts automatically. Nothing else is required on your end. And of course, you can unsubscribe at any time. Truly, no hard feelings. I only want this space to serve you if it brings joy, calm, or inspiration.

Come Sit on the Porch With Me

Whether you read every post or check in occasionally, there’s always a seat for you. I’ve missed sharing in this way, and I’m grateful to each of you who has stuck around through the quieter years. To read my first Substack Post, join me here where I share more of what I have been up to offline. You can also read more about what’s next for The Front Porch here.

A genuine thank you for being part of this journey; past, present, and whatever comes next.

I’ll keep the porch light on for you.

If you’ve followed us for a while, you’ve probably noticed how often Crested Butte pops up in our family’s seasonal stories — and I’m thrilled to finally pull together all our favorite places in one curated guide. (You can always access it from the top menu bar under “city guides then ‘Crested Butte‘.). In the midst of the pandemic, we sought a retreat that offered both serenity and adventure. Crested Butte provided just that. Over the years, it has become our sanctuary—a place where we can disconnect from the hustle and reconnect with each other. Whether it’s summer hikes, snowy Christmases, or spring break escapades, each visit deepens our love for this enchanting town.

Crested Butte, Colorado, is often hailed as “the last great mountain town”—a title it earns with authenticity and charm that are increasingly rare in modern ski destinations. Tucked away in the heart of the Rockies, this historic mining town has fiercely protected its small-town soul. There are no chain stores or fast-food outlets in sight, preserving the integrity of its local businesses and fostering a deep sense of community pride. Life in Crested Butte is laid-back and unhurried, with locals who greet you on Elk Avenue like old friends and community events that bring everyone together. Whether it’s the colorful Victorian buildings, the world-class skiing and mountain biking, or the wildflower-covered summer meadows, Crested Butte feels timeless—an untouched treasure where nature, heritage, and community still come first.

Our City Guide is a curated collection of the places and experiences that make Crested Butte special to us. From local eateries to scenic trails, we’ve compiled our must-visit spots to help you explore the town like a local. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for another adventure, we hope our guide enhances your experience.

We’d love to hear about your favorite Crested Butte memories or spots! Share them in the comments or tag us on social media. Here’s to mountain adventures and cherished family moments in our home away from home. And, if you need a place to stay, we rent our family’s cabin when we are not there!

Shop my favorites below to gear up for your next nature-filled escape.

One of the joys of Crested Butte is its laid-back charm. Here, fashion takes a backseat to comfort. I relish the simplicity of living in workout pants and Tevas, going makeup-free, and immersing myself in nature’s beauty. It’s a refreshing contrast to our city life, offering a space where our family can truly unwind.

Whether we’re trekking wildflower-covered trails, biking into town, or just soaking up the mountain air with the kids, I’ve found a handful of must-have items that make our time in Crested Butte even more enjoyable (and a little more stylish!). From trail-tested hiking shoes to sun-safe hats and durable backpacks, these are my go-to pieces for mountain adventures — tried, loved, and used every time we head west.

Father’s Day is just around the corner—Sunday, June 15—and it’s the perfect time to celebrate the dads in our lives with gifts that reflect their unique interests and personalities. Whether your dad is a foodie, a tech enthusiast, a fitness buff, or someone who appreciates a good laugh, here’s a curated list of gift ideas to make his day special.

No matter your dad’s interests, these thoughtful gifts are sure to make him feel appreciated this Father’s Day.

Welcome to HOUSE specialty—a new series where I spotlight the brands I love most and the standout pieces that define their design DNA. Think of it as my personal edit of what each label does best: the silhouettes, fabrics, or patterns that keep me coming back season after season.

We’re kicking things off with ME+EM, a British brand that’s become a quiet staple in my closet. As a 40-year-old mom constantly toggling between errands, work, and family life, I need clothes that move with me but still feel elevated. ME+EM nails that balance and always delivers on what I like to call “polished comfort”. Their thoughtful tailoring, versatile knits, and clean-lined dresses are polished enough for meetings, but easy enough for after school activities, as well.

This spring, I’m especially loving their bold stripes, chevron textures, and crisp shirt dresses that feel fresh but grounded in practicality. These are the pieces that work hard—just like we do—and that’s exactly what House Specialty is all about.

This spring roundup features pieces that check every box: refined silhouettes, playful knits, and elevated accessories that transition from playground to dinner date while checking all the spring trend boxes, as well. Texture play, bold prints, and earthy accessories— this roundup is a nod to timeless style, reimagined for women who do it all.

If you’re a mom who wants to look put-together and stay comfortable while doing all the things— look no further than ME+EM for your new go-to shopping destination.

Shop My Favorites:

Keep Scrolling for My Favorite Beach Looks:

Fred and I recently took a kid-free weekend to celebrate our birthdays, and thanks to our travel advisor, Kate Johnson, we discovered the perfect tropical retreat: One&Only Mandarina in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico. Just an hour’s drive from Puerto Vallarta International Airport, this secluded resort offered the tranquility and luxury we were seeking.

Arrival & Accommodations

Set amidst 80 acres of coastal rainforest, One&Only Mandarina features 105 standalone villas and treehouses, each designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Our villa provided stunning treetop views of the Pacific Ocean and came equipped with a private plunge pool, offering an intimate connection with nature.

Culinary Delights

The resort boasts several exceptional dining options so each evening, we dined at a different restaurant, savoring the diverse flavors and ambiances.

• Carao: Helmed by renowned chef Enrique Olvera, this cliffside restaurant offers contemporary Mexican cuisine with panoramic ocean views.
• Alma: An open-air, garden-to-table restaurant serving dishes prepared over wood-fired ovens, set amidst lush landscapes.
• Jetty Beach Club: A beachfront venue providing casual dining options with a focus on fresh seafood.

Relaxation & Recreation

Mornings began with a hearty breakfast buffet at Alma, followed by leisurely hours alternating between reading on the beach and lounging by the resort’s five pools. The variety of pools—including two at Jetty Beach Club, an adults-only pool at Carao, and two more at Alma—ensured a fresh setting each time.

Our spa experience was a highlight. The One&Only Spa, nestled within a natural volcanic rock garden, offers treatments inspired by indigenous and pre-Hispanic traditions, including a temazcal ceremony—a traditional Mexican sweat lodge experience. The spa also features a vitality pool, mud bath, and separate areas for men and women with cold plunge pools, saunas, and steam rooms.

Service & Surroundings

The resort’s service was impeccable, with attentive staff ensuring our comfort throughout our stay. The lush greenery and cliffside beaches evoked memories of Hawaii and Costa Rica, offering a unique blend of jungle and ocean vistas. Instead of a traditional hotel building, the resort comprises individual villas perched on stilts, providing privacy and breathtaking views.

Final Thoughts

One&Only Mandarina provided the perfect setting for our birthday celebration—a harmonious blend of luxury, nature, and exceptional service. It’s a destination we wholeheartedly recommend for anyone seeking a rejuvenating escape.  

Shop My Favorite Beach Looks

It’s the end of an era as the Houston Kappa Kappa Gamma Charitable Foundation presents the grand finale of the cherished Holiday Pilgrimage Home Tour this weekend. After 83 years, this tour stands as Houston’s longest-running home tour. With exquisite holiday decorations provided by local florists, it’s definitely worth clearing your calendar and inviting a friend to come and be inspired!

Because indoor photography is not allowed during the tour, we have captured photos of all the beauty for you to enjoy and SHARE here! Use the official #KappaPilgrimage2024Finale to share the joy and beauty of this historic event.

As a former Kappa at Texas A&M, I feel incredibly honored to be a part of this beloved Houston tradition by having our home featured as one of the stops on the tour. I collaborated with my talented friend and local florist, The Texas Poppy, to infuse our home with holiday magic. Taryn has truly outdone herself and Chis Bailey’s team stopped by to capture some glimpses as she was starting to set up, but you will certainly want to visit in person to experience the full splendor!

Stop by to take in the visual feast and creative holiday decorating ideas in these four Tanglewood homes and kick off the holiday season in style while raising money for worthy charities. The tour will take place this Friday, December 6 and Saturday, December 7 from 10 am to 4 pm. Tickets can be purchased at any of the four homes for $25. You can find more details and information here.

The foundation will carry on its Holiday Luncheon in 2025 and introduce a new event in 2026, inspired by the immensely successful Tablescapes events organized by the alumnae groups in Austin, Dallas, and Fort Worth.

I am wearing the ‘Chelsea’ tiered leopard dress by one of my favorite local Kappas and friend, Hunter Bell. You can shop more of her holiday collection here.

Photography by Chris Bailey