Heritage Holiday

Like a treasured heirloom, a sensational designer passes through the family tree working his holiday magic.

- Mary Neff Stewart

For many years, Mary Margaret Simmons watched designer Phillip Collins of Meridian decorate her great-aunt’s home for the holidays, methodically adorning each surface and crevice with lush greenery and sparkling ornaments. She knew that one day she would have a home for Phillip to embellish for the holidays. When she and her husband Ryan moved to Tupelo over a decade ago, she contacted the designer, asking him to travel over three hours to work his holiday magic in their home.

The Simmons’ stately home is best described as elegant and classic, even with two lively boys living under the roof. Designed by Kelly Holcomb and Liz McIntosh of Staggs Interiors in Tupelo, the spaces are beautifully appointed with gorgeous antiques and luxurious textiles. “The year-round style of the Simmons’ home is traditional with a flair of hospitality and warmth,” Collins observes. “The home has an atmosphere of elegance mixed with fun and games.” The neutral palette allows the family’s personality to shine through with creative artwork and rich collections.