Our mother’s day weekend found us perusing through the gardens of Charlotte’s elite – legally this time. My parents’ friends, who are very in the know, told us about the Winghaven Garden tour – a tour-of-gardens event that happens every Mother’s Day, thanks to the donation of the Winghaven residence by its previous owners. We saw some gorgeous gardens (and homes) and seriously lush foliage and blooms. I have about 100 pictures of the pretty flowers, but rather than showing you something you could see everyday, I’ll walk you through the high points that I found – and the things I only wish I could adopt into my own yard.

We have a bit of a slope in our backyard, so when we saw this chic solution, I about pulled out the pocketbook and offered these homeowners money to work their magic on my yard. Their vast array of plants make these levels super interesting to look at and completely solve the solution of a dreaded sloped yard. I’m keeping this solution in my idea bank (ie. my ol’ noggin) and hoping to make it a reality in our backyard some day soon.
Scott and I are constantly at battle on the issue of sheds. Like, battle The ones that look moderately decent are way overpriced and the ones in our price range are shoddy and not the most attractive. We need a storage space for our bikes, lawnmower, et al. but have yet to find a viable solution. These sheds changed my mind. These are sheds done right. For goodness sakes, one of them has window and drapes – can I get a whoop whoop?!
This is another addition I’d lurve to add to the abode, in my perfect world. I’ve mentioned my perfect world before – where I have Heidi Klum legs and infinite amounts of moola. So yeah, this glass solarium might never become a reality – but just imagine having a beer on a cool, spring night and checking out your awesome yard, all whilst being indoors (bug free) and gazing at the stars? Count me in.
This traditional courtyard isn’t necessarily my cup of joe, but I gotta give props to the homeowners on how well it’s done. From the southern, pineapple fountain to the welcoming benches, it’s the perfect little courtyard to welcome visitors into your comfy home.
Got a garage that’s quite the eyesore? Pop a little trellis above and allow some confederate jasmine (yeah, I learned that name on the tour – go me) or some other vine do the work in creating some greenery over your glorified shed.

This little asian inspired garden was quite the treat. The homeowner managed to meld stone walkways, colorful planters, koi ponds and tons of different style of plants into one relaxing garden – without seeming overwhelming. Her bright blue planters were bursting with tons of flowers, making me rethink my one-flower pots. Definitely a garden to throw some inspiration my way.
Any fun gardening techniques you’ve seen that you’re dying to try? Or any new yard enhancing projects on the horizon this spring? Share the good word, homies!







Thanks for this piece. That was a great day with you guys. This was a wonderful inside view of Charlotte. Well done!
I’ve got a start on my own potted vegetable garden. (That was part of the Asian themed garden.) Tomatoes, squash, and herbs. Thanks for a great day.