Living Well by Bunny Williams

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I always love learning how to live well. While perusing through the June 2015 House Beautiful magazine I came across an article from Bunny Williams and her husband John. Bunny Williams is a great designer. I love her work!! In the article, she and her husband discuss 8 ways to make life worth living.

1. Offer hospitality, not just a drink. “Show don’t tell, what you’re serving with a well-appointed bar.



(photo credit Domaine)

2. Rethink the centerpiece. “Look beyond flowers and vases and pluck an object from the mantel, scatter shells from afar, or display farmers’ market fruits and vegetables. (see my entry here about that)

Photo by Samantha Gades on Unsplash

3. For a lively table, invite interesting pieces. “Table settings are like guest lists: Diversity is key…..

Photo by Guillaume de Germain on Unsplash

4. Read, share, repeat. “Buy second-hand books by the bundle so that guests can hang on to the stories they begin, even when it’s time to go”. 




5. Don’t be precious about special things. “Use and enjoy your antiques and unique finds, especially in a utilitarian room like the bathroom…..

Photo by Sidekix Media on Unsplash

6. You need one good piece to anchor a room. ” For me, a mirror often does it……



7. Don’t wait to live well. “John and I used to entertain guests even when we had tiny apartments without room for a dining table. The point is: Don’t put off enjoying your home and friends- today there are so many ways to live well without breaking the budget….



Photo by Yakira Eppel on Unsplash

8. Your home begins as soon as you step out of the car. “It’s not just the inside of your house that deserves stylish touches. Celebrate your arrival by rolling out the red carpet for yourself- or at least a pair of oversize planters.”


Watch this fantastic video from Ballard Designs featuring entertaining ideas from Bunny Williams
(original article from House Beautiful; tips from Bunny Williams)

2 replies
  1. Shery G
    Shery G says:

    I so enjoyed this post Mrs. Shockley. When I was a kid I didn't have many nice things at all, so when I received something that was nice or dear to my heart I would put it away so it wouldn't get ruined. At times I still struggle with the same idea of putting things away, but then I realize that I am entitled To enjoy everything that I have. I'm using my nicer things more often and even displaying those keepsakes. Thanks for this post.

    • Mrs. Shockley
      Mrs. Shockley says:

      I am glad you enjoyed it! I enjoyed reading it in the magazine and I love this video from Ballard Design. We didn't have much when I grew up either so when I moved out my mother began to notice how "fancy" I was. She said, "Where in the world did you come from"? I just laughed but I knew once I moved out that my world would open up. I wanted better. And when you know better you do better. Use your beautiful things Mrs. Shery. You will get use to it over time.

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