Our July issue featured the story behind Hannah’s Bananas, a Little Rock-based dipped-banana operation dreamed up by Hannah Thomas. Here, she shares her recipe for her gluten-free banana bread—a baked treat that will please the palate year-round.
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Hostess Tips from Jessie Gillham
As the owner of Little Rock’s Festive Haus event planning service, Jessie Gillham knows how to host a party. In our December issue, she and her mother give us a glimpse into their winter solstice soirée (read the full story). Here, she shares a few of her tried-and-true tips to fully embrace and enjoy hosting guests.
1/ The host should be having fun. If you are enjoying yourself, your guests will be, too. This can change the entire mood of a gathering so think about the prepwork and timeline to ensure this happens.
2/ Put together a playlist. No matter your theme or what time of day, music is a must. It’s a detail that can add to the customized feel of the gathering.
3/ Manage your menu. You want the menu to be delicious and something you can pull off without feeling stressed. This is not the time to time a new recipe. Use your tried-and-true favorites or practice new ones beforehand.
4/ Dim the lights. Lighting is also one of the key elements that sets the tone for a party. For evening events, I like to turn off the bright overhead lights and rely on softer lighting.
5/ Be thoughtful when it comes to details and décor. Are there dietary or drink restrictions you need to accommodate? Plan for those ahead of time. A bar set-up where you can build your own drink or a signature cocktail for the evening are small touches that can add to the overall theme and comfort of your guests.
6/ Consider the flow. Not just in terms of movement but for conversation and connection, it’s important to space out the food, beverages, and seating to make sure your guests can move around freely to talk with one another.
Find more ideas for your next party in our Gather section.
Gladys’s Apple Butter Pie
Our December issue takes readers inside Charlie Groppetti and Todd Smith’s Vilonia home. As the owners of Porch View Home, decorating for the holidays seems to come naturally to them—as does baking. During the season, Todd’s grandmother’s apple butter pie is a must-have dessert that is laden with memories.
“I grew up in her kitchen,” Todd recalls. With six grandchildren, Gladys held a camp every summer to make sure they all knew how to sew, set the table, can vegetables, fry chicken, make tea, and grow a garden. “We learned all the home economics and shop basics,” he says. Here, he fondly shares the recipe for her apple butter pie.
SHOP
2 cups apple butter
3 large eggs
2 tablespoons flour
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 pre-baked pie crust
whipped cream, for garnish
maple syrup, for garnish
PREPARE
Preheat oven to 350℉. Mix together all ingredients and pour into pre-baked pie shell. Bake for 35 minutes. Allow to cool. Top with whipped cream and drizzle with maple syrup before serving.
Art of Home: Coming Nov. 8-9 to Northwest Arkansas
At Home in Arkansas is excited to partner with MIXD Gallery to present Art of Home, the first in what we hope will be an annual tradition for lovers of both art and design in Northwest Arkansas. Inspired by MIXD Gallery’s By Design exhibit, Art of Home showcases how life is enriched when you surround yourself with meaningful pieces. Collections are not reserved for gallery walls—they belong where we live, gather, celebrate, and unwind.
To this end, the tour offers the chance to step into four inspiring homes spanning Fayetteville and Bentonville, each showcasing a unique approach to living with art. All four homes are open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, November 8-9. Tours are self-guided—enjoy them all in one day, or stretch it into a weekend with friends, lunch, and shopping along the way.
In addition to the opportunity to tour these vibrant, art-filled homes, your ticket supports the work of New Beginnings, a bridge housing community in Fayetteville that cares for some of the most vulnerable people in our community. Because of your purchase, we’re able to donate a portion of proceeds from Art of Home to help continue their mission of ending chronic homelessness in Northwest Arkansas.
Ready to join us? Reserve your ticket. RSVP on Facebook. Invite your friends. We’ll see you at Art of Home.
From Little Rock to Florida’s Scenic 30A: How an Arkansas Native Built a $100M Luxury Real Estate Business at the Beach
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For many Arkansans, Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A is more than just a vacation spot—it’s a beloved destination where family traditions are made year after year. For Allison Freeman, a 30A luxury real estate agent with The Premier Property Group, it became the stage for a remarkable career leap: in just a few short years, she went from newcomer to 30A’s beaches to selling over $100 million in luxury homes.
Allison grew up in Little Rock with real estate in her DNA. Her grandmother, Norma Gibson, co-owned Ward-Gibson Realty, and her grandfather, “Gibby” Gibson, built many of the homes that still stand in Little Rock’s most established neighborhoods. “My grandfather built much of Midtown and a lot in Pleasant Valley, and one of his homes is on the National Register of Historic Places,” Allison says. “I grew up surrounded by conversations about real estate, construction, and community. It is in my blood.”
Allison’s grandmother, Norma Gibson, at her desk at her real estate office
A Leap of Faith to 30A
In early 2019, Allison and her husband, Keith—also an Arkansas native—moved to Florida’s Scenic 30A coastline, thinking it might be a quieter chapter in life. But when the pandemic hit, Florida’s real estate market exploded. Allison combined her love for people, her sharp instinct for real estate, and her business expertise to help other people make their dreams of life on the coast a reality.
She dove headfirst into learning every detail of the 30A real estate market—from the bustling streets of Seaside and Rosemary Beach to the hidden neighborhoods with untapped investment potential. Her hard work and hustle paid off: In just a few years, she’s built a business most agents would spend decades achieving.
Allison and Keith Freeman
Helping Arkansans Buy on 30A
Many of Allison’s clients have spent years vacationing along the Gulf. Now, they’re ready to purchase a piece of 30A for themselves—whether it’s a second home, a vacation rental, or a future retirement property. “I know their journey because I’ve lived it,” Allison says. “Buying on 30A is about more than a home—it’s about embracing a coastal lifestyle.”
More Than Just a Realtor
As a luxury real estate agent with The Premier Property Group, Allison Freeman’s expertise extends well beyond contracts and closings. She and Keith have personally owned and managed short-term rentals, giving her firsthand insight into what makes a property successful in the rental market. She’s also built a loyal social media following where she shares market trends, home tours, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of life on 30A.
Her website, allison30arealtor.com, is a resource for anyone considering buying or selling on Scenic 30A. It features curated listings, detailed market reports, and expert advice for navigating the area’s unique luxury market.
Arkansas Roots, 30A Success
While Allison Freeman now calls 30A home, her Arkansas roots remain strong. She credits her work ethic, commitment to clients, and love for community to her upbringing in Little Rock. “I think that’s why I connect so well with clients from back home,” she says. “We share the same values—and the same love for this incredible stretch of coastline.”
From the tree-lined neighborhoods of Little Rock to the sugar-white beaches of Scenic 30A, Allison’s story is a testament to what’s possible when vision meets opportunity—and how fast that opportunity can turn into success.
Learn more about Allison’s journey, explore the latest 30A real estate trends, and view current listings at allison30arealtor.com.
Allison Freeman is a licensed luxury real estate agent with The Premier Property Group along Florida’s Scenic 30A. She specializes in helping clients buy, sell, and invest in high-end coastal properties, including second homes and short-term rentals. With over $100 million in closed sales and a deep understanding of both Arkansas buyers and the 30A market, Allison offers a unique perspective that blends Southern hospitality with expert market knowledge. Learn more at allison30arealtor.com.
Where Collectors Meet Creators
Curate your collection with a visit to AMFA’s Art Market | Sponsored Content
Pieces by three anticipated artists from AMFA’s Art Market (clockwise from left): Daniella Napolitano, Sandra Sell, and Guiteau Lanoue.
Since opening in 2023, Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts has elevated Little Rock’s cultural scene with world-class exhibitions and programming that appeals to all the senses. Now, they’re expanding that impact with their first-ever Art Market, a shopping experience that invites patrons to grow their fine art collections by providing access to creatives from around the region. “We consistently heard from guests that they enjoyed discovering new artists and collecting art as a form of inspiration and self-expression,” says executive director Dr. Victoria Ramirez. “AMFA’s Museum Store has done a phenomenal job fulfilling this need in the community, but we wanted to expand that experience.”
“Our intention is to grow the AMFA Art Market year-over-year and become an annual destination for anyone in our region who values art and community.”
—Dr. Victoria Ramirez, Executive Director for the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts
The Art Market will take over the museum September 4-7 with booths representing artists from neighboring states and beyond. “The Windgate Art School will also host a rotation of emerging Arkansas artists throughout the weekend, several of whom are Windgate Art School instructors,” Dr. Ramirez says. Artists will be present at their booths to connect with guests and answer questions about their processes and visions, making for an art-buying experience unlike any other. Additionally, expect a special menu from Park Grill, food and beverages in the Cultural Living Room, and a schedule of lectures from local gallery owners on topics like framing fine art, having pieces appraised, and getting your collection started. After kicking off with receptions for members and corporate partners, the main event September 6-7 is free and open to the public. Find out more about the Art Market at arkmfa.org.
Photo (Sandra Sell) by Robyn Horn. All images courtesy of artists.
Ask the Designer: Favorite Arkansas Artists
In our August 2025 issue’s “Trendsetters” section, we asked Arkansas designers to share some of their favorite names in the local art scene. Here are the artists currently inspiring the state’s interior designers
Flora Saldivar in her home studio
“We have fallen in love with the work of local artist Flora Saldivar, a Mexican-American abstract painter. We love how she uses vibrant colors and movement. The soft edges of her ‘bleeding colors’ technique bring an approachability to her abstract visuals. We find her work very easy to incorporate into a variety of spaces and designs.” —Krista Couch and Heidi Burks, KH Collaborative
“Velesero! I’m loving his pieces right now. We have several of his in the store, and I’d take one home right now if I could! I love the luminescence of the silver leaf that comes through and the subject matter.” —Casey Sarkin, Casey Sarkin Design
“I’m a big fan of Leah Pollock’s ceramic sculptures—they have an otherworldly elegance to them that feels organic and rooted to the earth. I’ve visited her studio in Bella Vista, know her personally, and love to support her work.” —Betsy Soos, Proximity Interior Design
“William McNamara. I am a big fan of watercolor, and his Buffalo River paintings are amazing! —Stacy Sheid Epps, Stacy Sheid Interiors
Abstract flower painting by Zac Woodiel. Design by Providence Design
“Zac Woodiel, of course! I love his art (which can be purchased at Providence), but not only is Zac a talented artist, he’s impossible not to love as a person.” —Kimberly Mannis, Providence Design
“There are so many fantastic Arkansas artists! Among my faves are Katherine Strause, Catherine Rodgers, Bryan Frazier, Sharon Simmons, Milkdadd, Lisa Krannichfeld, Patrick Phillips, and Barry Thomas—I could never select just one! They all have different styles, different vibes, different mediums, and all create pieces with soul.” —Mara Malcolm, Lamb’s Interior Design
Art by Lori DeYmaz. Design by Art of Design
“Lori DeYmaz is an incredibly gifted artist who we are always proud to work with. Her pieces instantly bring happiness and dimension into any room. I also love any work that Barry Thomas creates. His paintings bring the beauty of Arkansas into the home to enjoy every day.” —Paula Storey, Design1
“Joëlle Storet of Fayetteville. I’m in awe of her mural featuring Fayetteville landmarks and historical figures along Nelson Hackett Boulevard.” —Andrea Cornwell, iSpace Designers
“I have been working with Harrington & Meyers Woodworking on some special custom pieces for my projects, and those guys blow me away every time. Their attention to detail and dedication to their craft is inspiring.” —Marianna O’Dea, O’Dea Studios Interior Design
Art by Ashley Saer. Design by B. Interiors
“I love Ashley Saer. She does great watercolors and house paintings; plus, her colors are amazing.” —Chandler Bailey, B. Interiors
“With the growth of Northwest Arkansas and the new Walmart campus, there is an ever-evolving array of murals, sculpture and local boutique galleries popping all over the area—we can’t name just one! But we are inspired by and love how unique each one of the artist’s styles are.” —Mary Beth Williams, Warrior Designs
“Sean Shrum. We love his work and have used it in several of our favorite projects.” —Kimberly Harper, Harper Howey Interiors
Lisa Krannichfeld in her studio
“Lisa Krannichfeld is an artist that we have admired for a long time. We love the combinations of color and pattern she uses with her subject matter. We love that her artwork empowers women and creates beauty on bland spans of building facades; her art brings life with vibrancy.” —Stacey Breezel, Shine Interior Design Studio
“Arden Boyce is an artist from my hometown that I’ve always loved and followed. It’s been a joy to incorporate her artwork into our interior designs. Her soft brush strokes, vibrant color palette and subject matter transform you to a memorable place and time.” —Natalie Biles, Shine Interior Design Studio
Art by Barry Thomas. Design by Bear Hill Interiors
“Buddy Whitlock. He’s a local boy (from Des Arc!) and really a hard worker and so talented. I have his very first piece of art. I also love Barry Thomas because of his ability to capture the outdoors.” —Paul Guess, Guess & Company
“Jeff McKay. We love his use of color in his pieces, and being in The Natural State, we love how he highlights the outdoors and brings them to life!” —Studio West Interiors
“Ellen Hobgood! I have loved her from the start. Everyone should have one of her ‘Santa Claus’ paintings in their home. After all, a Santa hanging in your home brings you luck!” —Dana Parker-Gilbert, Simply Charming Window Works
Tanya Sweetin with a piece of her art
“I have a couple: Emily Cobb and Tanya Sweetin. They both do fantastic work. They have timeless art.” —Miguel Newberg, M.N’Teriors
“My favorite Arkansas artist would have to be Andrew Bruckman. I admire his knowledge of art and the complexity of his work. He paints with such depth and emotion.” —Jayson Cain, Jayson Cain Interiors
“Mark Jackson at Velesero. We are really drawn to Mark’s photography of seemingly ordinary life experiences yet the layers he applies to the photograph stop you in your tracks. One cannot simply glance and move on; you are drawn into the piece. Seeking and recognizing beauty in our immediate surroundings is essentially what our entire ethos is at Lefler Teeter Designs and Mark’s work envelopes that for us.” —Meghan Teeter and Erin Lefler, Lefler Teeter Designs
“There are so many wonderful local artists, but one of my favorites is Heike Talbert. Her artwork instantly elevates a room.” —Lisa Stagg, LJ Interiors
Required Reading
Add them to your coffee table stack, your bookshelves, or your to-read list. These are the forthcoming design book releases we can’t wait to dive into
Written by Kathryn O’Shea-Evans (whose name you might recognize from previous bylines in At Home in Arkansas), Merry & Chic: Your Most Dazzling Christmas Ever is a guide to creating a spectacular holiday celebration. The book shares advice from design professionals (including another familiar name, Little Rock’s Jonathan Parkey), classic holiday recipes, and even a spirited playlist. Available August 5 from Gibbs Smith.
Rebecca Atwood, author of Living with Pattern and Living with Color, releases her third book, The Harmonious Home: Designing Peaceful, Personal Spaces Inspired by Nature. Here, Atwood invites readers to look to different landscapes (for example, oceans and forests) for inspiration in the colors, textures, and materials used to create a home. Available August 26 from Clarkson Potter.
Design Reimagined: A Fresh and Colorful Take on Timeless Rooms is the second release by Corey Damen Jenkins, whose use of rich color and classic architecture has made him a recent design world darling. Focusing on 10 projects across the country, Jenkins’ maximalism-meets-new traditionalism is evident on every page. Available September 2 from Rizzoli.
Written by Giles Kime, the executive editor of Country Life magazine, Sims Hilditch: Beautifully British Interiors features the collected, comfortably layered work of the firm founded by Emma Sims-Hilditch. Find inspiration for the English country house look of today, mixing new and traditional styles that optimize functionality for 21st century living. Available September 9 from Rizzoli.
Tradition Made New: Houses with a Sense of Soul and History is the debut tome from Tim Adams, principal of T.S. Adams Studio Architects in Atlanta. Growing up with a sketchbook in hand, Adams has long been drawn to the shape and form of structures, and Tradition Made New showcases his mastery of the craft. Available September 9 from Rizzoli.
In Home Again: A Return to Gracious Interiors, Southern design icon James T. Farmer brings his warm and refined traditional style to cottages and estates across the country. Captured in stunning photography by Emily Followill, these houses remind readers that the very best homes tell a story. Available September 9 from Gibbs Smith.
Comforts of Home: Tailor-Made, Family-Friendly Interiors That Feel Just Right is the second book from Jacksonville, Florida-based designer Andrew Howard. A master of using bold patterns and bright colors to create happy interiors, Howard’s passion for his work shines through in photography by Noe DeWitt and Eric Piasecki. Available September 9 from Abrams Books.
In Southern Sensibility, designer Edith-Anne Duncan captures the essence of Southern style: sophisticated yet casual interiors with respect for history and a modern twist. Penned with the help of our very own managing editor, Tiffany Adams, this book offers a peek into homes that are colorful, curated, and bursting with personality. Available October 14 from Gibbs Smith.
Originally published in the August 2025 issue of At Home in Arkansas
Quapaw Quarter Association’s 60th Tour of Homes
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the Quapaw Quarter Association’s Tour of Homes, an opportunity to step inside some of the most intriguing structures in the Capital City. To shine a light on this year’s Tour of Homes we spoke with Amber Crouch, president of the Quapaw Quarter Association board.
Q: Sixty years of the Tour of Homes—what a landmark year! What makes the 2025 event so special?
A: The Tour of Homes has stood the test of time as one of the region’s most beloved cultural traditions. It’s not just about homes—it’s about legacy, design, and how architecture connects us across generations. The tour offers an unforgettable look into the MacArthur Park Historic District, Little Rock’s oldest residential neighborhood, and a range of architectural styles—from timeless classics to modern expressions—showcase how preservation continues to evolve and inspire. Additionally, this year’s theme, Art & Architecture, embraces the intersection of historic preservation and creative expression—featuring live performances, artistic moments, and a range of styles that reflect Little Rock’s evolution.
Q: In addition to the classic Day Tour available on May 10 and 11, there’s also a special Candlelight Tour & Dinner on May 10. What makes the Candlelight Tour a different experience?
A: Three of the four Candlelight properties are exclusive to the Saturday evening experience, while all four will feature an elevated, immersive atmosphere distinct from the Day Tour. From 5-7 p.m. guests will enjoy champagne stations, food tastings from buzz-worthy local restaurants, live music, and integrated art throughout the tour. The Candlelight lineup also includes a bold contemporary residence, demonstrating how innovative design can complement the historic character of the neighborhood. Afterward, guests will enjoy cocktail hour and a seated dinner at Eastside Scrapyard, and industrial-chic new venue. Tickets are nearly sold out, making this a must for design lovers and preservation enthusiasts alike.
“We’re celebrating 60 years of preservation, storytelling, and community pride.”
—Amber Crouch, QQA board president
Q: Are there any other special events that are a part of the tour?
A: Mother’s Day Brunch on Sunday, May 11, is a beloved tradition featuring elegant fare, flowing mimosas, and live music in a welcoming, celebratory setting. It’s a refined finale to an unforgettable weekend. We’re excited about several free events leading up to the tour: Preservation Conversation on Tuesday, April 29, is set to be an engaging evening focused on MacArthur Park’s Historic District Guidelines, featuring insight from local experts and community voices. This takes place in The Mixing Room at The Paint Factory and is free and open to the public. On May 3, Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts plays host to a family-friendly day of art-making, design exploration, and hands-on creativity inspired by this year’s Art & Architecture theme.
Q: What do funds raised during the Tour of Homes support?
A: Proceeds from the tour directly support the Quapaw Quarter Association, a nonprofit committed to protecting and promoting the architectural heritage of Little Rock. We champion restoration, advocacy, and education, working to ensure the spaces that shape our city’s identity remain vibrant for generations to come. This tour is where history meets imagination. We’re incredibly proud to carry this tradition into its 60th year—and we invite everyone to see just how alive Little Rock’s past still is.
“It’s not just about saving old buildings. It’s about honoring the stories they hold and ensuring they remain part of the community’s living, breathing fabric.”
—Amber Crouch, QQA board president
The Candlelight Tour & Dinner is almost sold our, and Day Tour tickets are in high demand—so reserve your tickets now at quapaw.com/tickets.
Curried Chicken Salad
In our March issue, event designer JoBeth McElhanon of Lilias & Olive set a table—and a menu—for the “Here Comes the Sun” feature. She shared the recipe for her Almond Strata in the story, and now she is graciously sharing this easy-to-make, healthful Curried Chicken Salad that’s perfect for a spring soirée. Read the full story along with the rest of our March issue here.
CURRIED CHICKEN SALAD
SHOP
3 cups shredded chicken
½ cup mayonnaise
3-4 green onions chopped, green included
2 ribs celery, diced
1 ½ teaspoons curry powder
1 teaspoon honey
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon dijon mustard
¼ cup golden raisins
½ cup red grapes, halved
½ cup slivered almonds, toasted
salt and pepper, to taste
PREPARE
Add shredded chicken, mayonnaise, onions, celery, curry powder, honey, lemon juice and mustard to a medium bowl, and mix until combined. Fold in additional ingredients and season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill for 1-2 hours to allow flavors to marry. Serve in in a scooped-out avocado half or on a butter lettuce leaf.
Enjoy!
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