I don’t know about you, but I’ve always been intrigued with the “before and after” images in decorating magazines. This past December a version of this opportunity presented itself in the form of a “bomb cyclone” (whatever that means). No sooner had I taken pictures of my front door Christmas decorations than an arctic blast delivered multiple inches of snow — amidst a full-on gale, which was a bit eerie. Prevailing against this big blow, I was able to open the front door and sneak down the steps for a few snaps of the now snowy version of a green scheme.
The sharp and fascinating contrast between the before and after door decorations had me recalling that old song “what a difference a day makes…twenty-four little hours.” And thus was this post born. Some spots around the Parterre garden in addition to captures in town are the basis for a post theme that I’ve never considered. Enjoy and stay warm!
Many of these images are compelling on their own, but a dusting of snow adds that proverbial “frosting on the cake.”
Both the befores and afters are beautiful. Every shot is worthy of being a postcard, or on a calendar (I’d buy it!). Many of the befores look like they could have been shot in France; we rarely get snow, at least where I live in the south.
The decorated door looks even more Christmasy with snow.
I too am fascinated with before and after shots. These are beautiful and engaging photographs. I felt like I was there enjoying them in person.
Thank you ,
Barbara Glabman
PS A devoted blog follower since you spoke to my DARTS DEcorative Arts Society group in the “other” Newport…….California.
Oh Barbara, so good to hear from you. I think often of that wonderful day in “the other Newport,” with all of you! Trying to make time to come back to my old home state. Hope I get to see you soon. Thanks for checking in, Bettie
What a lovely compliment…”worthy of being a postcard.” Thank you so much!And I was surprised that I loved my door even more after the snow…
lovely.. I enjoy taking before and after pictures at the farm also… I can’t decide which I like the best… you?
It’s such a fun genre, this “before and after” concept. My fave? The Orangerie, whose 4 trees have soft pink cherry blossoms in early spring and then has a magical feel with a soft dusting of snow.
lovely before/after pictures – here in the south we are thawing from a snow and before freezing temps………….if good pictures were taken here at Hills & Dales Estate, will pass on to you. suellen
Oh Suellen, I’d love to see before and afters of Hills and Dales!! That would be lovely of you. Happy New Year, Bettie
Love this post & that snow storm even reached us here in Louisiana on the Northshore of New Orleans. Have all of your books, love visiting Newport & look forward to your blog. Thank You!! Have a wonderful week, Sherrill
All the way down to New Orleans? I hope you took gorgeous pictures; that must have been a once-in-a-lifetime event.
So glad you’re part of the PrivateNewport family. Have you seen our Instagram page of the same address? Do check it out. Happy New Year, Bettie
I think this is maybe my most favorite post so far. The before and afters are lovely to see, and depending on your favorite season, beautiful eye candy. Also love your posts about Miss Iris. Long may she bloom! 🌸💕
Thank you, Lynn. This post really seemed to resonate with everyone…so much fun for me to see that a new blog idea is well received.
And yes, long may Miss Iris bloom!
Bettie, your home and gardens are magazine worthy in any season–just stunning! I love the orangery. I am totally in love with your blog and all the pictures you’ve posted have been beautiful–like a little trip while relaxing right here on my wing chair.
Thank you, Bobbi. Our Orangerie is, I must confess, my favorite, too. Seeing in both spring and winter is magical in its contrast. So glad you can join us at Private Newport from your wing chair; the best of both worlds! Happy New Year, Bettie
Absolutely love your before and after pics! Stunning front door Christmas decorations and, of course, truly love that orangerie… as well as your well-thought-out hedges and gardens. Beautiful pictures and love reading you. It’s always a treat to visit!