Oliver’s Drop: April
Spring’s Peak
April is when the spring season truly comes alive—gardens are bursting with color, farmers markets are at their best, and every gathering feels infused with new energy. This month’s Drop is all about embracing fresh flavors, breezy style, and effortless entertaining. From a rosé punch perfect for warm afternoons to Atlanta’s most beautiful garden homes, let’s step into spring in full bloom.
Raise a Glass: Spring Rosé Punch
A little bit herbaceous, a little bit fruity, and entirely refreshing, this rosé punch is the ultimate warm-weather sip. Infused with fresh herbs and seasonal produce, it’s a stylish (and low-ABV) way to enjoy a classic spring wine with a twist. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
1 bottle of dry rosé
½ cup elderflower liqueur
1 cup fresh grapefruit juice
½ cup sparkling water
Fresh mint, rosemary, and basil leaves
Sliced strawberries and citrus wheels
In a large pitcher, combine all ingredients and stir gently. Chill for at least an hour before serving over ice. Garnish with extra herbs and citrus slices.
Farm-to-Table Freshness
Spring produce is at its peak, making it the perfect time for vibrant, flavor-packed meals. This month, I’m taking a farmers market haul straight to the kitchen to create seasonal salads, light soups, and fresh, unfussy dishes that pair beautifully with a crisp glass of rosé.
For an alfresco dining experience, Madeira Park offers the ultimate farm-to-table meal with an ever-changing seasonal menu, a lush outdoor patio, and an expertly curated by-the-glass wine list.
Atlanta’s Garden Retreats
Nothing says spring quite like a home surrounded by lush, thoughtfully designed gardens. Whether it’s an ivy-clad cottage or a modern home with a landscaped courtyard, these properties prove that outdoor spaces can be just as stylish as interiors.
I’ve rounded up some of Atlanta’s most stunning homes with gardens, all currently listed by Sotheby’s Realty.
A Spring Escape: Napa Valley, CA
Spring is the perfect time for vineyard picnics, blooming wild mustard fields, and rosé tastings at Napa Valley’s iconic wineries. The region is alive with fresh energy, making it an ideal escape for wine lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Sip at: Domaine Carneros or Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars
Dine at: The French Laundry or Bouchon Bistro
Stay at: Auberge du Soleil or Carneros Resort & Spa
Dream about: A vineyard estate of your own — explore these incredible properties.
Spring Color Trends: Fresh Home Inspiration
Craving a seasonal refresh? A fresh coat of paint can instantly brighten a room and set the tone for the season, and spring’s trending paint colors bring warmth and light into any space. Soft pastels, earthy greens, and warm neutrals are making waves this season, offering a subtle way to transition your home into a fresh, new chapter.
Spring is also the perfect time for seasonal home updates. Pressure wash decks and patios, clean gutters, and service your air conditioning system to keep your home in top shape. Refresh your landscaping and outdoor furniture, reverse ceiling fans for a cooling breeze, and swap in lighter textiles to embrace the season fully.
The April Playlist: Spring Awakening
This month’s playlist, Spring Awakening, is filled with light, feel-good tracks that capture the season’s energy. A mix of indie, jazz, and mellow electronic beats, it’s perfect for weekend brunches, farmers market strolls, and slow mornings. Listen here.
April is a time to refresh, reset, and embrace the season in full color. Whether you’re sipping a rosé punch, setting your table with farmers market finds, or planning your next getaway, I hope this month’s picks inspire you to live beautifully and intentionally. Cheers to April, and as always, love where you live.
— Oliver