If you follow me on Instagram, you likely didn’t miss my not so subtle excitement over Reese Witherspoon’s new book, Whiskey in a Teacup. And it’s not because I’m obsessed with Reese Witherspoon, or the fact that I love Whiskey, or that I have an obsession with books in general. Because all those things are true, but this book was really special. I couldn’t put it down. And by the time I was finished, I had texted all my girlfriends to go out and buy it. Here’s why you should:
1. You can totally judge this book by it’s cover.
We all know I’m obsessed with coffee table books. And if you’re a Reese Witherspoon fan (I mean, who isn’t?), the cover of this book is super cute and has her right on the cover. It really is a beautiful book (and the pictures inside are beautiful too!).
2. Totally a ‘feel good’ book
You know how when you watch a movie and it makes you feel all good inside? That’s exactly how I felt about this book. I felt like I was sitting at the kitchen table having coffee with Reese as she shared all her stories, traditions, and tips. She really reminds us what’s important about life–family, friends, home, and traditions.
3. Recipes
OMG the recipes. And not just the food, but the recipes for drinks! There is some serious good stuff in there.
She even has full menu recommendations for different occasions.
4. Stories + Memories
Hands down my favorite part. Reese shares a TON of memories and stories throughout the book. She shares stories about important life lessons, shopping with her grandma, gardening with her grandpa, catching frogs, and how doing her own lemonade stand taught her a lot about running a business.
And damnit she made me want a dog again! She had me reminiscing about my own grandma and traditions, some of which were so relatable.
And I loved learning about her mom, her incredible laugh, and her love for life and dancing. Her grandma was a beacon of solid wisdom from beauty tips to her wisdom growing up in the civil rights movement, and the importance of love and inclusiveness.
5. Parties and Traditions
I LOVED learning about the dinner parties and different traditions she has and cherishes. From the keepsake books for her kids, to the road trips (I already tried one of the games with my son during our morning car ride!), to the family dinners at the table, to the music, I loved them all.
And look, now I’m convinced I need to host a Kentucky Derby Party of my own. I’m already looking for some super cute hats.
6. Tips, more tips, and then more tips!
I don’t even know where to begin here! She shares full menu ideas, table setting ideas, road trip games, hostess tips, flea market strategies, gift ideas, houseguest etiquette, and even playlists for different occasions.
I mean the list goes on and on. And look, if you want to master the hot hair roller technique, or learn how to make the perfect sweet tea, this book is for you.
7. The South
As an extremely proud Lebanese woman, I LOVE how proud she is of where she came from, and loved learning so much about the South. It was super cute, she even “translated” some of the Southern “language.”
I loved learning about wicker and wallpaper, it totally gave me some ideas for my own home. Reese talks about the music there, the traditions, the love for Monograms, and look, by the time I finished reading the book, I felt like I was about to let a few “y’alls” slip off my tongue. Oh, and now I love Dolly Parton even more.
8. Life Lessons
Reese really hones in on what’s really important in life, from family and friends, to home and traditions. She highlights how important dogs and animals are, and that it’s so important to make an effort in this busy world, to really sit down at the dinner table with your family and have good food and conversation.
She talks about the importance of female friendships, and the importance of community and giving back. I especially loved what she said about having a pretty home, but a welcoming and practical home for your family and your kids. As she said it, “your home is not a museum.” I think I need to remind myself of that sometimes.
9. Book Club
Umm, did you know Reese has a book club? Not only does she share her favorites, but she shares ideas for a Book Club party menu, how she organizes her books, and all kinds of other good stuff…etc. I cannot wait to start on some of her recommendations.
10. Music, dancing, and playlists
One thing I really loved was the theme of how important music was to her. She shares many playlists throughout the book, and I thought that was such a nice touch! She shares a little something about her early aspirations in life, but I’ll let you wait and find out when you read the book.
So go buy it! Whether you need a cute coffee table book, a good read, or looking for a good gift, I promise you will not be disappointed. I know this is definitely going to be my ‘go to’ for gifts for awhile now. And Reese, in the off chance you ever read this, I totally get the sweatpants thing. And thank you for reminding us that you can care about “silly” things like hair, makeup, or fashion, and still be educated, thoughtful, and care about other things like politics, and civic engagement. And, please, write another book.
Love,
Deema
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