Our lucky stay at The Prairie

After a couple of nights out on the range in an "oh too rustic" cabin Susan and I were thrilled there was a cancellation at the famous Prairie by Rachel Ashwell. I have always wanted to stay here but guests are grandfathered in year after year during Round Top showtime. The property is over 150 years old and Rachel, famous for developing the Shabby Chic craze over 20 years ago, has lovingly created a peaceful homestead for lodging and events. It is common for developers to acquire charming antique buildings from nearby properties and Rachel did just that and went further to decorate each cottage with "crusty painted" pieces and sumptuous bedding and towels from her Shabby Chic line. The attention to detail was much appreciated. Our cottage was the Bluebonnet Barn and, although charmingly rustic, the flanged bottomed door was sure to keep out the critters we were worried about in our previous nights stay.  Old brick floor contrasts beautifully with the sumptuous linens...   Notice the umbrellas are white. too! Love the raised embroidery on the shower curtain ... We entered the Rangers Lounge and met Danny, the chef de village!! He's an eye opener!! I have seen Danny over the years on the fields picking up Rachel's finds and had no idea he was a great cook too. It was fun hearing where fellow guests were from and their stories of Round Top while sharing the breakfast table. The Rangers Lounge is also the office and small shop. Linen and velvet...rustic and refined! I just love the contrast. Charming antique finds are perfectly at home here. Of course this small antique tutu hanging was a personal favorite. Even the dog was white aptly named Pearl....so sweet! There is an event barn on the property which is an extremely popular spot for many weddings.   Barn weddings are all the rage and this space is beautiful. The lovely Rachel Ashwell, pictured. The views are beautiful ...  Well Susan looks happy! We bumped into Danny in town that night....hysterical pic !! Real women pump gas! A "Thelma and Louise" trip I will never forget! Join us for another fun evening at GreatHouse!!  Our previous workshop was such a success we are hosting another one. Talented designer, Victoria Balson, will share with GreatHouse enthusiasts her "go to " decorating tips and trends. Find out answers to all your decorating questions... "How do I hang curtains to maximize window space and ceiling height?" "What are the best paint colors....especially gray and white?" "What size rug should I get?" Let's pick that beautiful brain of hers!! Thursday, October 22nd, 7 pm Drinks, light bites and fun! Call the store to reserve as space is limited. 908-522-8900. Check out her website www.victoriabalson.com and then you will want to follow her on Instagram@victoriabalsoninteriors It's a good time to follow on Instagram and Facebook as some of my finds and fun experiences are posted!  Talk to you soon,  Bonny    Please note delivery and shipping is available on all items EMAIL ME with any questions.     GreatHouse Bonny Neiman    p.973-714-4541  www.bonnyneiman.com   12 Beechwood Avenue | Summit, NJ  Monday-Saturday 10:30-5:30