Summer is in full swing, and Michigan isn’t disappointing. Warm breezes by day and crisp, moonlit evenings usher in beach trips and northern romps. The dog days of loafing and field-tripping are upon us. The fleurdetroit team and I wish everyone a safe summer season.

This June, Joe and I hosted three wonderfully fun and inquisitive groups to our home and gardens. All three groups traveled from out of state to tour our little piece of heaven. The Smithsonian sent a group early in the month to tour the architecture, collections, and gardens. Their tour in Michigan focused on architecture connected with Charles Lang Freer and Mary Chase Stratton. As some may recall, Mr. Freer purchased the famed Peacock Room in the 19th century and had it installed in his Detroit home. He challenged a young Mary Chase Stratton to replicate the ancient glazes from his collection. From this relationship, the famous Pewabic luster glazes were born. In the Peacock Room, Freer displayed many of Mary's early creations next to his ancient pottery. Upon his passing, Mr. Freer donated the entire room and all of its contents to establish the Smithsonian's initial collection.

The group wanted to experience Mary's world and see where Mr. Freer once lived with the famed Peacock Room. This delightfully fascinating group found themselves not only exploring the Stratton House but also the gardens for a good portion of the afternoon.

We also welcomed two equally charming groups, one from Chicago and the other from various cities around the country. The ladies from the Kenilworth Garden Club, an affiliate of the Garden Club of Michigan, and another group of architectural and garden connoisseurs toured the gardens and house. Much laughter and many smiles were shared as we enjoyed the surroundings. Sharing our gardens with like-minded individuals always results in wonderful times.

There's a summer buzz in Bloomfield Hills too. At the shoppe, a curated selection of seasonal plants and interior objects is here to discover on your next field trip. As a bonus this July, we are offering pop-up, in-store sales on some of our favorite things, as well as our anxiously awaited summer dinner alfresco with Chef Toni and the fleurdetroit team's hands-on tablescaping demonstration. Design and styling techniques will be taught for you to employ at your next dinner party, fleurdetroit style.

As always, be kind to yourself and have a great summer season.