James Farmer III – a third-generation Auburn University graduate- is considered one of the premiere upcoming talents as a gardening guru, a landscape designer, a floral artist, an interior decorator, a design expert, a Southern chef, and an event planner.

By R. Caligaris

To James, a home engages all of the senses - the pleasantries of colors and materials, the feel of the doorknob warmed by the sun, the smell of fresh laundry, the sound of the closing door, and the taste of supper on the table. Through his design firm, James works with clients to truly create a home. James recently visited Columbus and SVM had the opportunity to speak with him about the creation of James Farmer Designs in his native Perry, Georgia, his inspirations, and how the 30-year-old ’04 Auburn College of Agriculture landscape design alumnus has built an impressive client list that stretches from central Alabama to all the Southeast. James is the author of the Wall Street Journal best-selling books A Time to Plant; Sip & Savor; Porch Living; Wreaths for All Seasons; A Time to Cook; Dinner on the Grounds; A Time to Celebrate and A Place to Call Home. His most recent publication, Arriving Home, features design projects from the farmlands of Georgia to the rolling countryside of Connecticut.

You boast an impressive resume from an acclaimed writer to lifestyle expert, when did you first say to yourself, "I want to be in the landscaping and interior design business?" I have known that my whole life. I consider that one of life’s blessings to have a direction and career path from an early age.

Could you explain to us what "Garden Lifestyle" means to you? For me, the Garden Lifestyle is when the garden or the land, or the seasons influence your daily life. It may be a sprig of mint in a drink, a garden brimming with summer produce, jams, jellies and pickles, flowers on your table, or the satisfaction of having dirt on your hands. Gardening is the best therapy and its benefits are felt throughout the home.

How did you learn your culinary expertise and who was your biggest inspiration? I learned by standing in the kitchen with my grandmother. She told me if I was going to be in the kitchen with her she was going to put me to work. However, it was not really working because I really enjoyed it. She taught and influenced me more than anyone when it comes to cooking. She believed in feeding people body and soul, and she left me that legacy.

What would people be surprised to know about you? For as much as I love to cook a big meal, sometimes a bowl of very simple cereal is just as much fun. I love cereal.

What do you consider staples for any Southern Gentleman? A great belt with a monogrammed plate or buckle, and, of course, boots or loafers to match. I also consider handsome monogrammed stationery a staple because thank-you notes are the epitome of graciousness. And, a solid sense of pride in our history and heritage, the sort of pride that is inspiring and heartwarming but not boastful.

So far, you have been able to write seven incredible books, including a Wall-Street Journal bestseller, and run a successful company James Farmer Inc.; what is the best part of being an entrepreneur, and was it important to you to keep your business local? I feel like the voice that my readers find in my books remains authentic by my staying local. And in turn, I get to travel extensively with these books and speaking engagements and bring inspiration back to where I am rooted. As an entrepreneur, I learned early on that I am only as good as the folks I hire. So, fortunately, I have found a top-notch crew to run the S.S. James Farmer. Entrepreneurs or businessmen will know that hiring their weaknesses can be their greatest strengths.

With the holidays right around the corner, friends and family will be returning home to celebrate. What are your tips for making your home inviting for the holidays? Bring the outdoors in by using greenery and flowers! This is the quickest method to usher in a festive mood. Along with seasonal produce and baked goods! No matter how fine or exquisite your house is, it does not say home until something is baking in the oven and the table has fresh flowers.

When you are not working, what is your favorite way to way to spend a day in “Perrydise” (Perry, Georgia to our readers)? My family has a term for a particular style of laziness, and it is called wallering. I have an entire room in my house devoted to this- it is called the “waller” room. It is a state of vegetative, sloth-like movement fueled by Netflix binge-watching and enjoying Talenti gelato.

JAMES FARMER