Hillary Munro’s whole heart is in the West, and her new book, Alpenglow, is a stunning example. From foraging wild plants to designing distinctive tablescapes and holiday decor with vintage pieces, she gracefully weaves truly place-based threads together. The result? A refined and welcoming aura; elegant simplicity that echoes the natural beauty of the West.
“We recently purchased Graze Garden and Home, which is open year round. During the summer we supply Jackson with beautiful summer annuals, perennials as well as trees, shrubs and all your gardening essentials. In the fall, we fill the greenhouse with local heirloom pumpkins, bulbs and seed garlic. For the holidays, we sell fresh Christmas trees, wreaths, garland, tabletop and decor,” Munro told Dishing. “We also offer workshops throughout the year.”
The latest chapter for Munro and her efforts to inspire others’ creativity is a spectacular new book — Alpenglow: Outdoor Celebrations for Every Season.
“I think this book will appeal to anyone who loves the romance of the West and entertaining,” Munro said. “In Alpenglow, I also share family traditions, homemade gift ideas and delicious recipes.”
The compelling hardcover book begs to be explored, filled with creative ideas for truly romanticizing life’s occasions, whether big or small.
Inspiration in Alpenglow, Munro’s Vision
“My favorite stories are the cowgirl picnic and ice fishing on Slide Lake, primarily due to the fond memories spent outdoors with people I love, sharing a unique experience, delicious food, and incredible photography captured by Lisa Flood,” Munro reflected. “The seasonal rituals in each chapter are a reference and reminder to create memories regardless of the weather.”
The book itself echoes Munro’s passion for finding beauty in simplicity and the wild landscape around her. Each detail showcases her unique perspective and vision.
“Our editor, Madge Baird, was so patient and accommodating with my one million requests. I had a vision of creating a little gem of a book and was very particular about the layout and photographs I wanted to showcase,” Munro said.
“We added custom end pages — designed by my friend Rachel Robinson of Robinson Press —from foraged cow parsley, which I think added a beautiful touch. This design was then made into a blanket pattern in collaboration with Powderpuff Collection.”
Holiday Inspiration
Though it’s technically early in autumn yet, Munro has plenty of ideas for bringing pure Western charm to your next gathering. Whether you’re looking to give a small gathering an unforgettable creative touch, or already planning winter holidays, she’s got some great suggestions.
“I always look to nature when planning a tablescape,” Munro said. “I forage for unique items that can act as a base which I build upon. With the change of season and cooler temperatures heading our way, creating a mood with taper candles and linens can elevate the table. This is a great time of year to set intentions for the upcoming season. I like to make pretty smudge sticks to be used as place settings and set intentions as the evening comes to an end.”
She’s also not shy about making the holiday magic last for as long as possible.
“To maximize the holiday season, I like to get our tree the day after Thanksgiving so we can enjoy it as long as possible. I keep my home filled with simple buckets of greens, potted winter bulbs with garland and wreaths hung both indoors and out,” she said. “I aim to get these decorations up early to get everyone in the festive mood. The holidays are busy, so meal planning for parties and deciding on decor in advance will help make evenings surrounded with friends and family less stressful.”
Any time of year, stop by Graze Garden and Home to discover plenty of inspiration and materials to bring unique decor into your own home. And be sure to pick up a copy of Alpenglow to keep your creative energy flowing, no matter the season.
Munro hopes that the book will encourage readers to find the romance in occasions large and small: “In Alpenglow, I hope to inspire people to set a table in an unexpected place, make things with your hands and create a little unexpected magic.”
