Ace & Jig’s Southern Travel Diary

"Outside of Atlanta in the area of Chamblee is a very quaint and quiet row of antique shops. Our friend, Yokoo Gibran, an amazing knitwear designer and photographer, took us around this adorable area and we are so glad she did! Eugenia's Antique Hardware was truly amazing. It has a HUGE selection of antique hardware, handles, hinges—beautifully displayed and organized—every kind of knob or pull you could ever want. It's been family run since the 70's and the owners are super knowledgeable."

"GO if you love tea! This spot serves over 200 varieties. The owners know all sorts of quirky info on each tea's history and health benefits. This cozy cafe also has a charming tearoom in back for what would be a lovely high tea party."

"Hands down the coolest shopping spot in Nashville; a light-filled, large boutique store with insane white-beamed ceilings and a gorgeous curation of clothing, accessories and home ware by our dear friend, the lovely James Kicinski McCoy."

"James' fave for animal fries and burgers—need we say more? Forever a Nashville staple."

"We headed out with our Ace & Jig gals for a team dinner at Little Octopus in the gulch of downtown Nashville. James, who joined us, is friends with owner Sarah Gavin—who we got to hang out with late night and generously let us sample a variety of lovely wines. This restaurant was a standout for fresh creative food and overall ambience. Our favorite dishes were the ceviche, maduro, and the fingerling potatoes. A must dine!"

"We met up with our friend Nikisha Riley of Urban Bush Babes and she took us around to some of her favorite local hangouts. Kinda Tropical—part cafe, part bar, part convenience shop—was a super chill spot on the east side that served up an amazing kimchi egg sammy and jerk chicken plate amidst their rad retro decor. Bonus points for the outside garden, which has daily live music and is dog-friendly."

"We hosted a sparkling cocktail party filled with local artists and creatives on the stunning grounds of the Hotel Saint Cecilia in Austin. The gorgeous hundred year oak tree, the shimmering glamorous pool, the best margaritas and the lovely ladies of Bunkhouse made this quite the evening!"

"At the end of our road trip we hopped off our tour bus with our team and spent the last night shacked up at the Austin Motel. TEAM BONDING!"

"We had to stop at the outside Tillery Street Garden in Austin to roam amidst the plants, soils and succulents. Very hard not to take these on board the tour bus."

"We turned to painter Mallory Page, native New Orleans artist, to give us insights on where to eat, drink and shop in the Big Easy."

"Bacchanal Fine Wine and Spirits. Best lively scene on the outskirts of NOLA for music, an amazing assortment of cheese and huge backyard outdoor patio. Order a number of small plates at the outdoor window and set up shop under the sparkly lights to soak in the evening jazz scene."

"After our late night out, we were very grateful for the 24 hour morning coffee and beignet stand located in City Park NOLA. Situated right next to the New Orleans Museum of Art & Sculpture garden, stroll through the scenic garden with a hot sugared beignet in hand. It's the perfect leisurely scenic morning surrounded by Spanish moss."

"The most fun way to get around town and explore—the historic NOLA streetcar. Fun fact: The St. Charles Avenue line is the oldest operating streetcar in the world!"