7 Things Our Houston Editor Is Loving Right Now 

As small business advocates who are constantly scouting their communities for local finds to share and celebrate, and as dynamic and creative women who tend to seek out inspiration in a variety of areas, The Scout Guide editors are excellent sources of unique recommendations. Recently, we checked in with Patti Mackey, editor of The Scout Guide Houston, to discover what’s capturing her interest these days. Here, she shares her latest obsessions, which include a new, relaxing pastime, a healthy(ish) go-to snack, an inspiring book about interiors, and more.

1. What I’m Wearing

Margarita Mercantile Dresses // “Normally, come March I’m outfitting myself for The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. While this year’s season has been postponed, I’ll still observe one of Houston’s favorite traditions by donning cowboy boots and a hand-embroidered Mexican dress from Margarita Mercantile!

2. Where I’m Exploring

The Nancy and Rich Kinder Building // “The new home for modern and contemporary art at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, The Nancy and Rich Kinder Building is absolutely fabulous. Designed by Steven Hollar Architects, it’s an architectural delight and well worth a day of exploration.”

3. What I’m Cooking

Kale Guacamole a la Smart in the Kitchen School // “During 2020, I rediscovered my love of cooking. So, this year I’ve treated myself to a year-long membership in the Smart in the Kitchen School. Marcia Smart’s lessons are perfect for brushing up your kitchen skills and discovering new fan-favorite recipes. Next up: healthy guacamole, which comes with a necessary warning to all Texans: ‘Contains Kale.’”

4. What I’m Coveting

Polly Wales Lyra Studs // “I love to peruse the blogs of my fellow editors to discover new-to-me local brands they’re recommending. Recently, a pair of earrings The Scout Guide Denver editor Leigh Gordon scouted for a gift guide caught my eye. Now, the Lyra Studs from Element 79 Jewelry [in Denver] are at the top of my wish list.”

5. What I’m Planning

A Trip to Austin, Texas // “After attending The Arbors Round Top, I’m always tempted to keep driving up the road to Austin for a long weekend. The Scout Guide Austin editor Leigh Ann Kalman keeps me in the know on the coolest spots, and I’m planning a long weekend spent dining like a local and staying at the gorgeous backdrop of her editor photo, the Commodore Perry Estate.”

6. What I’m Learning

Hand Embroidery // “The way small, independent business owners adapted to the unforeseen challenges of a pandemic was infinitely inspiring. I’ve loved supporting our entrepreneurs as they bobbed and weaved past obstacle after obstacle, and one of my favorite ways has being tuning in to their online classes. Fan-favorite Hibiscus Linens’s hand-embroidery classes have been wildly popular, and I’ve loved learning the beautiful craft from the expert herself, Mariana Barran Goodall!” 

7. What I’m Reading

The Beauty of Home // “Houston-based designer and Volume 5 member Marie Flanigan is constantly inspiring me with her eye for design, and I love flipping through her beautiful collection of work and understanding her creative process. The Beauty of Home is a must-have volume of inspiration and tips for any interior design lover with a penchant for traditional interiors.”

To keep up with Patti’s current loves, follow The Scout Guide Houston on Instagram.