My husband is a former home builder, and between us we’ve built or renovated nearly every style of house imaginable — a coastal cottage, a modern waterfront, and lately, something more traditionally New England.

Furnishing a house into a home takes years. My rule is simpler: at least one found piece in every room. Silver trays, English barley-twist tables, whatever stops me.

Welcome to a monthly series of curated antique finds — the pieces I’m gravitating toward and the one-of-a-kind things worth chasing.

Some links in this series are affiliate links. If you shop through them, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Falling for Provence

Part one of our 13 days in France

There’s a quiet in Provence I wasn’t prepared for. It settles over everything in the afternoon — the warm stone, the silver-green olive trees, the still pool — until the loudest thing left is the cicadas. We came thinking it would be the gentle opening act. It turned out to be the part we keep talking about.

outfit details

This trip was planned, start to finish, by Alexis Jamian — every transfer, every reservation, every quietly perfect piece of timing.

Before We Begin: My Travel Day Favorites

A long travel day goes a lot smoother with the right things in your bag. Here are the few I never make an overnight flight without:

overnight travel essentials

Bienvenue

Arrival days are usually a blur of luggage and logistics. This one wasn’t. We landed in Marseille just after eleven, and a private car carried us up into the hills, the city falling away behind us. Home was Crillon le Brave, a hotel folded into an ancient hamlet that feels less like a place you check into than one you’re briefly allowed to belong to. We spent the afternoon doing the only sensible thing: very little. Pool, view, and the slow Provençal pace doing its work.

outfit details

Dinner was downstairs at La Table du Ventoux, on a terrace over the valley. We watched the light turn gold, then soft, then disappear behind the hills.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape

The mornings here had a way of slipping past before we noticed. Breakfast was included each day — a beautiful display of pastries, fruit, and local specialties, eaten in front of that view we somehow hadn’t tired of. By late afternoon a car took us to Château La Nerthe, where we walked the vineyard and tasted wines with centuries of reputation behind them. There’s a particular pleasure in drinking something exactly where it was made, under the same sun that ripened it.

Dinner was at Le Verger des Papes, a restaurant built into a villa that once served as the Popes’ summer home. The views from the terrace were breathtaking, the stone underfoot older than most countries, the evening in no hurry to end. I’m still dreaming about the zucchini flower appetizer we had.

outfit details

Into the Luberon

This was the day I’d go back for. Our driver took us on a long loop through the Luberon valley, and somewhere along it I gave up trying not to photograph everything — rolling country, stone villages weathered to honey, a light the postcards somehow undersell.

First was the place I’d been waiting for: the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, a twelfth-century abbey set among rows of lavender. You’ve seen the image — plain grey stone, soft purple fields — and there’s a risk something so photographed feels smaller in person. It did the opposite.

Then came Gordes, a village stacked so improbably up its hillside it looks less built than grown there — until someone passes you with their groceries and you remember it’s simply where people live. We settled in for a long lunch at Carte des Boissons, carpaccio followed by a pizza and an Aperol spritz.

Then drifted off into the narrow streets. I won’t pretend the thought didn’t cross my mind: the honey-colored stone, the unhurried morning bustle, a whole village carrying on around me. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like Belle in the opening scene of Beauty and the Beast.

outfit detail

That evening we had dinner Restaurant du Vieux Four, just walking distance from our home away from home.

When it was time to leave, our private transfer to St. Tropez took the scenic way, pausing in Roussillon — a town built in glowing shades of ochre, where we wandered through pottery shops and stopped for a sweet scoop of gelato. Provence holds so much more than we could fit into a few days — villages and valleys and corners I’ve barely scratched, and I already can’t wait to go back and explore more.

travel look

Stay tuned for part two, where we trade lavender fields for the glamour of St. Tropez.

Every detail of this trip was arranged by [Alexis Jamian]. If Provence is calling, they’re the ones to ask. (Itinerary credit: My Italy VIP — www.myitalyvip.com)

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red and white stipe set / watering can

It’s been three years since we packed up our family’s life in Florida and moved to the quiet mountains of western North Carolina. But long before the packing and the quiet goodbyes, there were hard conversations, self-doubt, and loneliness.

See, the thing is, I first approached my husband in the summer of 2022 about moving permanently to what had been our family’s summer vacation spot. Nick was used to my wild ideas by then; usually they involved a new business venture or a real estate investment. Not bringing our whole life to a halt and pivoting to something completely foreign.

I was a born-and-raised Florida girl. I grew up in Sarasota, just walking distance from the world-famous Siesta Key beach. Weekends usually meant the water. I had a career selling luxury real estate; my husband was a custom home builder. On paper, we had everything we were supposed to want. That’s the part no one warns you about—that you can build the life you’re “supposed” to have and still feel like something’s missing.

The truth was, I was exhausted by the life I had built. And I might never have known it if I hadn’t had the privilege of hanging up my hat for six weeks each summer. The first two weeks in the mountains were spent anxiously checking my phone and email, but by week three I had finally let go. Family dinners on the back porch. Long nights of UNO. Midday hikes and swimming in the lake with the kids. We were living. And by “we,” I mean myself and our two daughters—Nick went back and forth between work and weekends in the mountains while the girls and I lived in our tiny summer bubble.

I won’t pretend that living separate lives for those six weeks was easy, or that it didn’t come with some animosity. But I was tired enough to be selfish. And in those six weeks, I was clear-headed enough to see just how exhausted my own husband was, too.

The end of summer 2022 came, and the hard conversations followed. I remember my exact words to him: “My heart lives in the mountains. I only live in Sarasota to work.” Nick is a creature of habit, so change doesn’t come easy for him—but he knew something in our life had to give, and that staying put would change nothing. We started having quiet conversations about what moving would actually look like: what would need to happen, how much we needed to save, how our lives might unfold from there. These were the hard but good conversations. What most people don’t think about is the loneliness. We pulled back from social obligations and events, mostly because we were carrying a secret we weren’t ready to share.

And then, once we decided to leave the life we knew and try something new, things began to fall into place with an ease I still can’t fully explain. The girls were accepted to school. Our home sold in two days. We had an accepted offer on our dream piece of property. None of it felt forced—it felt like doors opening one after another, almost faster than we could walk through them. I don’t take that lightly. When something that big unfolds that smoothly, it’s hard not to feel the hand of God in it. That doesn’t mean the fear disappeared. Even with everything lining up, the doubt still crept in. We kept the news private as we spent months closing up our businesses.

I want to be clear about something: I changed. The summer of 2022 changed me. It wasn’t that my hometown did anything wrong—the town I grew up in and I had simply grown apart. And here’s what I learned. People around you don’t always like change. And sometimes they really don’t like a change that makes them question their own choices. Keeping our move private for as long as we could was how we protected our peace in the decision we’d made. I will never regret that—and if you’re sitting on a dream right now, hold it close until you’re ready.

Three years has felt fast and slow all at once. Our family’s story is still unfolding, but the children are thriving, Nick is doing what he loves, and I’m finding myself all over again.

So here’s my note to myself, three years later—and maybe to you, if you needed to read it. Just do it. Take the leap, because you’re about to see how sweet life can be. There will be ups and downs, but the people who matter most are right there with you. You find yourself again. You build a new career. You live. You’re still busy raising kids and doing life, but now it’s done with intention. Family dinners are back. You cook almost every night. You get chickens, and a dog too. You have lunch every day with your best friend, Nick. Life feels safe, and full, and exciting again.

If your heart is whispering something to you the way mine was, don’t let the fear talk you out of it. The leap is scary. The landing is worth it.

stripe set watering can

dress | necklace | bag | sandals | sunglasses

A great pair of denim shorts is a true warm-weather staple, and this pair has been on repeat. They sold out quickly last summer, and for good reason—the finished hem and just-right length make them especially flattering. I have them in both white and the Berkeley wash, and reach for them constantly. You can use code SARA15 to save.

shorts | shirt | sunglasses | earrings | basket bag | necklace | shoes

necklace left | bag | sandals | necklace | necklace

I paired them with a classic white button-down—an effortless piece that always works. This one, in particular, has become a favorite for wearing untucked; it has that relaxed, easy drape that feels polished without trying too hard.

swim | bag | sandals | sunglasses | hat

Lately, I’ve been leaning into accessories to bring a look together, and I’m especially drawn to chunky beaded necklaces right now. They add just the right pop of color and give even the simplest outfit a more intentional feel.

dress | necklace | shoes | bag | sunglasses

bag | necklace | shoes | bracelet

For evenings, I packed a few easy dress options, along with a rotation of flats—from timeless ballet styles to my go-to wrap sandals. I did order a pair of kitten heels for spring that I was hoping to bring along, but they didn’t arrive in time—though I already know they’ll be on heavy rotation in the coming weeks.

Tap to Shop

A simple formula for dressing, but one that felt perfectly suited to a weekend by the water.

bag | sandals | coverup | swim top | swim bottom | sunglasses | necklace | sunscreen |

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As I step into March, I’m continuing to invest in myself — starting with this new journal. A place to write notes of encouragement, capture content ideas as they come to mind, and set fresh goals. There’s something powerful about putting pen to paper.

I recently filmed a “day in my life” video and, while editing, had a moment where I thought — wow, no two days are ever the same. What does remain consistent, though, is my morning routine.

6:00 – 7:30 am
Wake up, walk Frank, make coffee, and catch up on emails, Instagram notifications, and private messages.

7:30 – 8:00 am
Get the kids off to school, then do the “morning pick-up” — clean the kitchen and start a load of laundry.

8:00 – 9:00 am
Get ready for the day. This is, without question, my greatest life hack as a work-from-home girl. Being dressed and ready changes everything.

From there, my days shift depending on what the week holds. This week includes a real estate closing, so I’m juggling last-minute addendums and final walkthroughs in between content planning. While I don’t strictly follow a content calendar, I do like to enter each week with intention and a loose plan.

12:00 – 1:00 pm
I make it a point to sit down for lunch every day — even if it’s behind a computer screen. My favorite lunches are leftovers from recipe testing. This week I made one of our family favorites from Ina Garten’s cookbook, and it never disappoints.

1:00 – 3:00 pm
This is typically my filming window — whether I’m arranging florals, baking banana bread, or sharing a new favorite spring look.

3:00 – 6:00 pm
Sports runs and dinner prep. We’re in a busy season with activities, so I truly cherish the nights when the four of us can sit around the table together.

6:00 – 8:00 pm
Often working from the car or a set of bleachers during practice. It’s surprisingly one of my most productive windows — circling back on emails, responding to DMs, or linking new favorite finds.

Moving forward, it’s a goal of mine to post here on Substack more consistently — a space where we can connect a little more personally and where these reflections can live on for you to revisit anytime.

Now, years later, it’s a recipe I return to again and again, not just for the taste but for the memories it carries with it. It’s simple, unfussy, and somehow always just right—whether I’m baking it for my family or sharing a loaf with friends. Today, I’m passing that same recipe on to you.

Ingredients:

3 eggs

1 c. oil (I use avocado oil)

2 c. flour

2 c. smashed bananas

1 1/2 c. sugar (maple syrup can be substituted, 1:1 ratio)

2 tsp. vanilla

1 tsp. salt

3 tsp. cinnamon

2 tsp. baking soda

1/4 tsp baking powder

1 c. chopped nuts (optional)

Directions:

Beat eggs lightly, stir in oil, sugar bananas and vanilla. Stir in flour, baking powder, baking soda cinnamon, and salt until well blended. Stir in nuts (optional). Transfer into two well greased 8x5 pans. Bake at 375 degrees for one hour or until cooked through. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes. Enjoy!

Side note: you can also switch out the bananas for grated zucchini or carrots, just make sure you use a food processor to grate finely. All other ingredients and steps remain the same.

I’m a few days shy of turning 42, and here’s the thing—I have very little desire to wear heels anymore. Last night, while getting ready for dinner with friends, I reached for a new pair of pants (sharing below) and thought they deserved a great pump. I slipped on my once “go-to, very comfortable” Jimmy Choos and had them off in about .2 seconds. Thankfully, the ballet flat has made a serious comeback, and I couldn’t be happier. From suede to vegan leather to embellished pairs, there are so many chic options for fall. These Veronica Beard flats are currently in my cart.

Speaking of pants—the manufacturer calls these the “chic jean,” and I completely agree. I’d been hunting for a polished fall pant, and these check every box: high-waisted, elevated, just the right amount of stretch, and a length that actually works for my 5’11” frame. I’d say they run true to size—I’m in my usual 27.

And because no edit would be complete without beauty, I have to share a few of my fall favorites. My makeup routine stays fairly consistent year-round—I love trying new products but usually return to my tried-and-true staples, like this foundation. Recently I swapped my Gucci bronzer for one from YSL, and I love both the richness of the shade and the gorgeous packaging. Early this season I also added the Rhode pocket blushes to my rotation. I’ve been wearing their new fall shade Tan Line, but if you prefer something more pink, my summer go-to Piggy is perfect. And of course, the Rhode lip peptides remain my favorite lightweight tint—they give just the right amount of color with zero fuss.

Here’s to a weekend filled with simple joys and timeless style. xo, Sara

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My family knows that no one is safe on a road trip with me in the car — if I spot an antique mall, thrift shop, or consignment store, we’re pulling over.

Even though it’s been over two years since we moved away from Sarasota, it’s still one of my favorite places to hunt for treasures. Maybe it’s because I know all the secret spots, or maybe it’s because Sarasota is where “brown furniture goes to die.” In a city booming with new construction, it often feels like it’s out with the old, in with the new — which works out beautifully for those of us who adore the old.

I’ve always believed a home feels best with a mix of old and new. Vintage pieces bring layers, character, and warmth that you just can’t buy off the shelf. Whether you’re a Sarasota local, passing through on a road trip, or spending a season here, these are my forever favorite places to shop (in no particular order):

The Exchange (formerly the Women’s Exchange)
Located in the heart of downtown, The Exchange is where I often find beautiful silver, china, and rugs — the kinds of pieces that quietly elevate a home.

PEL Sarasota
I first stumbled across PEL when they were hosting an estate sale, and it’s been a favorite ever since. Beyond sales, they have a warehouse filled with hidden gems. (Insider tip: they’re only open Wednesday–Saturday, so plan ahead!)

A’more Auctions
Just two doors down from PEL, this isn’t thrifting in the traditional sense, but their auctions are filled with one-of-a-kind finds worth browsing.

Pines of Sarasota
A little north of downtown, Pines is one of those hit-or-miss places — but when it’s a hit, it’s really good. I’ve brought home everything from jewelry to furniture to artwork. Because the donations often come from families downsizing loved ones’ estates, the selection is both unique and meaningful.

Pines of Sarasota II
Right down the street from the original — and since you’re already there, it’s worth stopping in.

Habitat for Humanity ReStore
Don’t overlook the ReStores! My favorite is at 17th Street and East Ave, just north of downtown. I’ve scored some incredible deals here on pieces that only needed a little imagination.

Estate Sales
Before you head out, check EstateSales.net — they keep an updated list of local sales, and you can even set your travel radius if you’re up for a little adventure.

In the end, thrifting and antiquing isn’t just about finding a bargain — it’s about bringing soul into your home. A vintage silver tray, a weathered oak dresser, or a piece of art with a story — these are the layers that turn a house into a home. Mixing the old with the new creates a kind of timelessness that feels both comforting and lived-in. It’s not about perfection, but about surrounding yourself with pieces that carry meaning.

For most of our marriage, I worked in real estate while Nick built custom homes. As any self-employed couple knows, the work never really stops. We hustled hard. Nick’s days stretched long, and I tried to keep mine within the kids’ school hours, but balance was always elusive. Our goals were big, and our dreams even bigger.

We spent years creating, building, selling, and starting over again. Friends and family never understood how easily we picked up and moved — I lost count after our 12th move — but for us it was about building toward freedom.

Then came 2020. We sold what we thought was our dream home to a family relocating during Covid. With real estate moving at a lightning pace, building again seemed like the smartest choice. We tucked into a little rental in a great location, telling ourselves it was temporary. We had no idea how much life was about to change.

Those years were full of highs and lows. Our businesses thrived, yet the world felt heavy. Supply chain delays and industry pressures made time feel frozen. Life was chaotic — work, school, activities, repeat.

Then one winter day in 2021, in the midst of the busyness, I found myself scrolling Zillow. A tiny two-bedroom with a view in the mountains — my happy place — had just been listed. Without even calling Nick, I reached out to the agent. By lunch I’d made an offer, and by dinner I’d booked tickets to see the home we were buying sight unseen.

That little house gave us two unforgettable summers in the mountains. But each fall, returning to Sarasota felt harder. I craved the slowness, the intentional rhythm, the meaningful moments we’d discovered in the mountains. Why couldn’t we still dream big while also choosing family first?

By Thanksgiving of 2022, our “what if” conversations turned serious. On that trip we walked a piece of land Nick found just outside of town. Sunlight filtered through the trees, and it felt like a park — peaceful, timeless, ours. We started calling it The Park. It felt like home.

Back in Sarasota, things quickly became real. The girls were guaranteed spots at the local school. Our home sold within 48 hours of listing. On the very same day, we went under contract on The Park. The way it all lined up felt seamless, like a God-wink.

As spring rolled in, questions from friends and clients grew. What were we doing? Where were we going? Were we building again? I stayed quiet, holding the details close until the time was right.

Finally, as the school year drew to a close, it was time to tell the girls. They were finishing 6th and 3rd grade when we sat them down and shared the news: we were moving to the mountains. We promised them a big yard to run in, space to breathe, and no more moving — at least not for a long while.

And to our relief, they took it beautifully.

✨ To be continued…

For the past 15 years, my career has been rooted in real estate and new construction development. Along the way, my love of design has grown and shifted — shaped by my New England summers as a child, and refined into a style that feels both classic and traditional, yet deeply personal. But while I’ve always been passionate about homes, my greatest joy is in creating one — a space where our family gathers around the table, slows down, and truly connects.

This digital space is an extension of that passion. Here, I share pieces of my everyday life — from a favorite antique shop find to a family recipe we return to again and again, to the pair of jeans I can’t live without. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at the things that inspire me most, woven together by the belief that home is less about perfection and more about presence.

I’m so glad you’re here. It means the world to me. xx