A Little About Me

Hi, I’m Susan, creator of Hen and Horse Design. I love home decorating, entertaining, cooking quick, yet flavorful meals, arranging flowers, and organizing pretty much anything you can think of! I believe in using all of the ‘good’ things in your home and creating your home to be your haven! Why wait for the company to come over to live well? 

My home motto is to ‘treat yourself like You are the company’!

I hope to inspire you to create your own cozy home, where you and your family feel like “you are the company!”

I believe that when we treat ourselves well, we go out into the world and treat others with that same kindness.

A beautiful home doesn’t have to cost a fortune to look fabulous.  I’ll show you how!

How Did Hen and Horse Design Evolve?

The name ‘Hen and Horse Design’ came from my husband’s lifelong love of horses, my love of roosters and chickens, and our dream of one day wanting to own a small horse farm. (possibly with a few other barnyard animals!) 

In the midst of the pandemic, as the world slowed down, I found inspiration in working on home projects. What started as a way to stay productive soon blossomed into a passion-driven journey of transformation.

Little did I know what was to come

Little did I know that my dedication to reviving spaces and creating beauty within my own four walls would catch the eye of Saratoga Living Magazine. The unexpected opportunity to be featured in the pages of such a prestigious publication marked a turning point. Fueled by the encouragement of this recognition, I felt compelled to share my experiences, tips, and the magic of home decor with a wider audience.

And so, Hen and Horse Design was born—a blog that has evolved from the quiet corners of my home to a vibrant platform where I pour my heart into every post, weaving together tales of gardening, design, and the joys of creating a space that truly feels like home.

The journey continues, each chapter unveiling new layers of creativity and connection, reminding me that even amidst uncertainty, beauty can be cultivated and shared.

Come join me and our little white bunny named Cannoli! ‘The Roost’ has come to life.

Susan Signature with feather pen
picture of me

Have you checked out my other social channels? Follow along so you don’t miss out on any of my tips, recipes, or stories!  Join me on my other social channels for more! Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook

Recent blog posts

what herbs go with rosemary
Appetizers | Main Dishes | Side Dishes | Soups

What Herbs Go with Rosemary: A Fresh Flavor Guide

Today I’m sharing What Herbs Go with Rosemary the Best? A fresh flavor guide to help you decipher how to mix your companion plants. Growing up, I was fortunate to spend countless hours in my Italian grandfather’s garden. It was a sprawling paradise filled with an abundance of fresh herbs, vegetables, and grapevines. One of my fondest memories is of my grandfather carrying a salt shaker in his pocket. He would wander through the rows of tomatoes, pluck one straight off the vine, sprinkle it with salt, and enjoy it right there in the garden. I still believe this is the best way to enjoy a fresh tomato. His pride in his garden was evident in his meticulous care of every plant, and his joy in sharing the fruits of his labor with family and friends was contagious.

italian herbs for cooking
Main Dishes

Essential Herbs for Italian Cooking: Best Spices and Tips

Growing up in an Italian household, I was lucky enough to be surrounded by the enticing aroma of homemade tomato sauce on the stove. My grandmother, Antonia, was the heart of our kitchen, creating the most mouth-watering dishes that brought our family together. One of the secrets to her incredible Italian food was her use of fresh, homegrown herbs….

greens and beans on table
Main Dishes

Best Italian Greens and Beans Recipe: Sausage and Parmesan

If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, easy-to-make recipe that screams comfort food and Italian flair, look no further! Our Best Italian Greens and Beans Recipe with Sausage and Parmesan checks all the boxes. This dish is not only bursting with flavor but also a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, it uses only one pot, which means minimal cleanup and maximum enjoyment.

overhead view of giuseppi's pizza and menu
Main Dishes

Best Pizza on Hilton Head Island: Giuseppi’s 15-Year Favorite

Every year for the past fifteen years, our family has packed our bags, and headed to our favorite vacation spot: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. This beautiful island, known for its stunning beaches, lush greenery, and world-class golf courses, has always been our go-to destination for relaxation and family bonding. Over the years, we’ve explored many Hilton Head restaurants, indulging in mouthwatering seafood, savoring fresh oysters, and dining at Michael Anthony’s on our last night. But no trip to Hilton Head would be complete without a visit to our favorite pizza place, and the Best Pizza on Hilton Head Island: Giuseppi’s 15-year favorite.