When you step into Reba McEntires home, youre treated like an old friend.
Its a reflection of the Southern hospitality she was raised on.
Thats the Southern hospitality of have you eatenand its just good manners, too.
Credit:Robby Klein Photography; Design: Better Homes & Gardens
Hand-Me-Down Traditions
McEntire explains a lot of her habits around the home come from her upbringing.
This is the same reason she makes the bed each morning.
Its a tradition shes passed on to her son as well.
Credit:Robby Klein Photography; Design: Better Homes & Gardens
I taught Shelby the same thing.
Its very important to make your bed in the morning, that is a standing rule.
Mama didnt have rules.
Credit:Robby Klein Photography; Design: Better Homes & Gardens
I never had a curfew in my lifejust try not to get hurt, she says.
Its shoes on, you stay comfortable, she says.
Come on in, just be comfortable.
By the fire is always the best place for that.
For quick appetizers, she loves chips and salsa or acasual charcuterie board.
Another Entertaining Must Do: Get Everyone Involved
The best way to get everyone involved?
The number one thing is lets get them fed, and then we play games, she says.
And when everybodys answered, the next person asks a question and it goes all the way around.
Life on the Road
McEntire has a packed schedule, which means shes always on the move.
When shes traveling, there are a few things she takes with her to make any space feel homey.
When I travel, I try real hard to travel as light as possible, she says.
Ohand my little slippers, because I dont like to walk on hotel room floors in my bare feet.
She also likes to collect practical souvenirs.
Its a useful souvenir thats not just going to sit on a shelf and collect dust.
I love to arrange them too.
I get the biggest kick out of them.
Q: What are the top 3 kitchen essentials you couldnt live without?
My coffee maker for sure, a good paring knife, and my blenderhave to have that.
Q: Faux plants or real plants?
Oh, we have both.
I love the fake plants with the little twinkly lights on them.
If its anolive treeor ficus with the little lights, thats really good for the ambiance at night.
Q: Colors or neutrals for home decor?
Im more neutrals than bright colors.
Q: Scented or unscented candles?
I dont like wax candles, because you have to go around and confirm you snuff them all out.
I prefer the remote-controlled, battery-operated candles.
You just take the remote control, click them, and theyre off.
The book, coming this October, embodies McEntires relaxed entertaining style, encompassing every area of her life.
Its filled with home inspiration, favorite recipes, and inspiring stories.
Overall, its about spending quality time with those around you and not fussing over the details.
Just put dishes that dont match out, it just makes it more conversational.
Not That Fancyis set to release on October 10, and is available for pre-order now.
