THE DASH HOME + KITCHEN LIFESTYLE BLOG
HOME WITH HOLLY
MEET THE WRITER
HOLLY WOODWARD
Hey, Holly here! With a lifelong love of design, entertaining, and the meaningful moments shared around the table, I wanted to bring that perspective to my second love...writing. After a career as a Design Educator and Interior Architect, I rekindled my passion for home life in 2024 and created DASH Home + Kitchen located in Hickory, North Carolina with my husband, Mark. Together we celebrate food, drink, design, and the art of living. I truly believe life happens in the everyday moments as we gather with friends, cook a meal, or spend quiet evenings at home. Through this blog, I share thoughtful insights on recipes, hosting, design inspiration and how to celebrate every day as special. Have a question, a post idea, or want to connect? I can be reached at holly@dashhomeandkitchen.com.
EXPLORE BLOG POSTS
IN THE KITCHEN
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Spring Cleaning Your Kitchen: A Checklist for ...
Spring always feels like a fresh start to me. As the days get longer and the weather warms up, I find myself wanting to open the windows, let the light...
Spring Cleaning Your Kitchen: A Checklist for ...
Spring always feels like a fresh start to me. As the days get longer and the weather warms up, I find myself wanting to open the windows, let the light...
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Kitchen Prep Tools to Reach for Everyday: Wher...
Everyday kitchen tools shape both how we cook and how we feel in our space. From DASH Boards and olivewood or walnut utensils to GreenPan and silicone-safe stainless tools, investing...
Kitchen Prep Tools to Reach for Everyday: Wher...
Everyday kitchen tools shape both how we cook and how we feel in our space. From DASH Boards and olivewood or walnut utensils to GreenPan and silicone-safe stainless tools, investing...
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A Healthy Year Begins in the Kitchen. Declutte...
A healthy year begins in the kitchen. Discover simple, intentional ways to declutter after the holidays, refresh your pantry, upgrade kitchen tools, and create a space that supports mindful cooking,...
A Healthy Year Begins in the Kitchen. Declutte...
A healthy year begins in the kitchen. Discover simple, intentional ways to declutter after the holidays, refresh your pantry, upgrade kitchen tools, and create a space that supports mindful cooking,...
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Forever Chemicals: Are They in MY Cookware?
Forever chemicals, or PFAS, are persistent synthetic compounds commonly found in nonstick cookware that can accumulate in the body over time and impact health. With growing research highlighting their risks,...
Forever Chemicals: Are They in MY Cookware?
Forever chemicals, or PFAS, are persistent synthetic compounds commonly found in nonstick cookware that can accumulate in the body over time and impact health. With growing research highlighting their risks,...
RECIPES, FOOD + HERITAGE
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The Five Mother Sauces
In the world of classical cooking, few concepts are as foundational as the five essential mother sauces. Developed in French cuisine, these sauces represent a system for understanding flavor, technique,...
The Five Mother Sauces
In the world of classical cooking, few concepts are as foundational as the five essential mother sauces. Developed in French cuisine, these sauces represent a system for understanding flavor, technique,...
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Hummingbird Cake - A Regional Southern Classic
To me, Hummingbird Cake tastes like a blend of spiced banana bread with a tropical twist from the pineapple. Originated from Jamaica, where it was called “doctor bird cake,” named...
Hummingbird Cake - A Regional Southern Classic
To me, Hummingbird Cake tastes like a blend of spiced banana bread with a tropical twist from the pineapple. Originated from Jamaica, where it was called “doctor bird cake,” named...
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Black History Month: African History and the G...
If you are from or live in the South then you are familiar with Carolina Gold rice, a historic grain that once made the region one of the richest agricultural...
Black History Month: African History and the G...
If you are from or live in the South then you are familiar with Carolina Gold rice, a historic grain that once made the region one of the richest agricultural...
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Recipe: Snow Cream
Growing up a child of the 80's Snow Cream seemed like a rite of passage for childhood. With the inclement weather beating the Southeast it seems fitting to share my...
Recipe: Snow Cream
Growing up a child of the 80's Snow Cream seemed like a rite of passage for childhood. With the inclement weather beating the Southeast it seems fitting to share my...
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Recipe: Quick Kimchi
Kimchi is a traditional Korean dish of seasoned vegetables, known for its bold, spicy, salty, and slightly sour flavor. Even this quick version has that garlicky heat and satisfying crunch. ...
Recipe: Quick Kimchi
Kimchi is a traditional Korean dish of seasoned vegetables, known for its bold, spicy, salty, and slightly sour flavor. Even this quick version has that garlicky heat and satisfying crunch. ...
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Recipe: Matsutake Ramen
Anyone who has ever attempted to make homemade ramen base knows all too well the time commitment involved. For a busy lifestyle this is one of the reasons I love...
Recipe: Matsutake Ramen
Anyone who has ever attempted to make homemade ramen base knows all too well the time commitment involved. For a busy lifestyle this is one of the reasons I love...
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Dry January Mocktail Spotlight: Pink Paloma Mo...
The Dry January mocktail has become one of the best ways to start the year feeling clear, intentional, and still a little celebratory. This month, I'm reaching for the Pink...
Dry January Mocktail Spotlight: Pink Paloma Mo...
The Dry January mocktail has become one of the best ways to start the year feeling clear, intentional, and still a little celebratory. This month, I'm reaching for the Pink...
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Detoxing After the Holidays: 3 Pressed Juice R...
After the holiday I often feel like my body needs a reset. These three pressed juices detox will help you transition back into a sustainable, healthy routine.
Detoxing After the Holidays: 3 Pressed Juice R...
After the holiday I often feel like my body needs a reset. These three pressed juices detox will help you transition back into a sustainable, healthy routine.
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All Hail the Collard Greens: A Southern Tradit...
Collard greens are a Southern New Year’s tradition, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. Learn how to clean, cook, and serve fresh collards for a flavorful, meaningful celebration.
All Hail the Collard Greens: A Southern Tradit...
Collard greens are a Southern New Year’s tradition, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. Learn how to clean, cook, and serve fresh collards for a flavorful, meaningful celebration.
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New Years Day: Hoppin' John: With Callicutt B...
I made this several years ago for the first time and since then it has become a New Year's Day tradition. Hoppin’ John is more than just a comforting Southern...
New Years Day: Hoppin' John: With Callicutt B...
I made this several years ago for the first time and since then it has become a New Year's Day tradition. Hoppin’ John is more than just a comforting Southern...
ENTERTAINING + HOSTING
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Planning the Ham for Easter: Your Guide to Eve...
Wondering how much ham is actually enough ham for Easter dinner? If you’re anything like me, you want to make sure everyone is well fed but still reserve enough for...
Planning the Ham for Easter: Your Guide to Eve...
Wondering how much ham is actually enough ham for Easter dinner? If you’re anything like me, you want to make sure everyone is well fed but still reserve enough for...
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Building a Modern Tradition: The History of th...
Ahh, the Easter egg hunt... my personal favorite game of childhood competition and sibling rivalry has a surprisingly layered history rooted in ancient symbolism, religious transformation, and evolving cultural practices....
Building a Modern Tradition: The History of th...
Ahh, the Easter egg hunt... my personal favorite game of childhood competition and sibling rivalry has a surprisingly layered history rooted in ancient symbolism, religious transformation, and evolving cultural practices....
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Be Ready for the Ride: Ringing in the Year of ...
This February 17th marks the Lunar New Year and is celebrated in many Asian cultures. It’s a magical moment when old cycles end, new ones begin, and everyone seems to...
Be Ready for the Ride: Ringing in the Year of ...
This February 17th marks the Lunar New Year and is celebrated in many Asian cultures. It’s a magical moment when old cycles end, new ones begin, and everyone seems to...
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Stress Free Entertaining After the Holidays: Ch...
Entertaining doesn’t have to be stressful, even after the hustle and bustle of the holidays. With a few thoughtful touches, you can create a beautifully appealing grazing and charcuterie boards...
Stress Free Entertaining After the Holidays: Ch...
Entertaining doesn’t have to be stressful, even after the hustle and bustle of the holidays. With a few thoughtful touches, you can create a beautifully appealing grazing and charcuterie boards...
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The Allure of Vintage Champagne: What Makes it...
Vintage Champagne captures the essence of a single exceptional year, offering unmatched depth, complexity, and elegance. Celebrated for its rarity, aging potential, and nuanced flavors, it’s perfect for milestones, holidays,...
The Allure of Vintage Champagne: What Makes it...
Vintage Champagne captures the essence of a single exceptional year, offering unmatched depth, complexity, and elegance. Celebrated for its rarity, aging potential, and nuanced flavors, it’s perfect for milestones, holidays,...
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New Years Signature Cocktail: A Twist on the F...
I truly feel no cocktail revivals the French 75 in elegance and simplicity. This classic cocktail that dates back to World War I and is named after the French 75mm...
New Years Signature Cocktail: A Twist on the F...
I truly feel no cocktail revivals the French 75 in elegance and simplicity. This classic cocktail that dates back to World War I and is named after the French 75mm...
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Hosting the Ultimate New Year's Eve Party
Hosting the ultimate New Year’s Eve party is all about thoughtful planning and effortless style. From sending invitations early and setting the mood with warm lighting to creating party zones,...
Hosting the Ultimate New Year's Eve Party
Hosting the ultimate New Year’s Eve party is all about thoughtful planning and effortless style. From sending invitations early and setting the mood with warm lighting to creating party zones,...
BRAND SPOTLIGHTS
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Maison & Objet 2026: "Past Reveals Future": S...
For me curation is an act of storytelling. Watching the global design conversation unfold at Maison & Objet in Paris this past week reinforced why heritage driven brands continue to...
Maison & Objet 2026: "Past Reveals Future": S...
For me curation is an act of storytelling. Watching the global design conversation unfold at Maison & Objet in Paris this past week reinforced why heritage driven brands continue to...
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Product Spotlight: Sake 101: A Beginner's Guide
Sake has long been used in celebrations to express gratitude, respect, and good fortune for the year ahead. Its connection to ritual, its versatility at the table, and its role...
Product Spotlight: Sake 101: A Beginner's Guide
Sake has long been used in celebrations to express gratitude, respect, and good fortune for the year ahead. Its connection to ritual, its versatility at the table, and its role...
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The Evolution of the Champagne Coupe and Its In...
The fascinating history of the rise, fall, and resurgence of the Champagne Coupe.
The Evolution of the Champagne Coupe and Its In...
The fascinating history of the rise, fall, and resurgence of the Champagne Coupe.
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Duval-Leroy Femme de Champagne, 1996 Magnum
Nineteen-ninety six was a tremendous year and Duval-Leroy Vintage “Femme de Champagne” 1996 is truly an exquisite presentation of the year. Founded in 1859 in the heart of Champagne, the...
Duval-Leroy Femme de Champagne, 1996 Magnum
Nineteen-ninety six was a tremendous year and Duval-Leroy Vintage “Femme de Champagne” 1996 is truly an exquisite presentation of the year. Founded in 1859 in the heart of Champagne, the...
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Discover World Class Marshallberg Caviar Here i...
Marshallberg Caviar brings world-class Osetra from Happy Valley, NC to Hickory—sustainably raised, exquisitely crafted, and perfect for celebration.
Discover World Class Marshallberg Caviar Here i...
Marshallberg Caviar brings world-class Osetra from Happy Valley, NC to Hickory—sustainably raised, exquisitely crafted, and perfect for celebration.
CARE + LONGEVITY OF YOUR PRODUCTS
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Six Steps to Increasing the Longevity of Your C...
There’s something special about fresh-cut flowers that brightening a room and my mood. I’ve learned that with a little extra care, that beauty doesn’t have to fade too quickly. Over...
Six Steps to Increasing the Longevity of Your C...
There’s something special about fresh-cut flowers that brightening a room and my mood. I’ve learned that with a little extra care, that beauty doesn’t have to fade too quickly. Over...
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Maintaining your Miyabi Knives. A Cut Above th...
Miyabi Japanese knives are renowned for their razor-sharp edges. This precision comes from hard heat treatments and thin, finely honed geometries. These features make them incredibly efficient but also more...
Maintaining your Miyabi Knives. A Cut Above th...
Miyabi Japanese knives are renowned for their razor-sharp edges. This precision comes from hard heat treatments and thin, finely honed geometries. These features make them incredibly efficient but also more...
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Maintaining Your Wooden Cutting Boards
Truthful moment: I didn’t always oil my cutting boards. For a long time, I treated them like any other kitchen prep tool: wash, dry, and repeat. It was that day...
Maintaining Your Wooden Cutting Boards
Truthful moment: I didn’t always oil my cutting boards. For a long time, I treated them like any other kitchen prep tool: wash, dry, and repeat. It was that day...
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How to Care for Your Smithey? Simple Steps to ...
If you’re anything like me, your Smithey cookware is a trusted kitchen companion. Cast iron and carbon steel have a way of making every meal feel a little more satisfying,...
How to Care for Your Smithey? Simple Steps to ...
If you’re anything like me, your Smithey cookware is a trusted kitchen companion. Cast iron and carbon steel have a way of making every meal feel a little more satisfying,...
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Caring for Your Heritage Steel Cookware: Tips f...
Heritage Steel cookware is designed to last a lifetime, offering professional performance and timeless style in every kitchen. Made from high-quality stainless steel with T316 Titanium reinforcement, these pans are...
Caring for Your Heritage Steel Cookware: Tips f...
Heritage Steel cookware is designed to last a lifetime, offering professional performance and timeless style in every kitchen. Made from high-quality stainless steel with T316 Titanium reinforcement, these pans are...
DESIGN, STYLING + INSPIRATION
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Decorating for Spring with Faux Florals
There’s something instinctive about bringing nature into my home in the springtime. I’m always drawn to florals, the way they soften a space and make it feel alive and feminine. ...
Decorating for Spring with Faux Florals
There’s something instinctive about bringing nature into my home in the springtime. I’m always drawn to florals, the way they soften a space and make it feel alive and feminine. ...
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Dyeing Easter Eggs, the Natural Way
Happy Easter week, everyone! I, like many of you, will be dyeing Easter eggs this week in anticipation of Easter Sunday. In an effort to use more natural ingredients in...
Dyeing Easter Eggs, the Natural Way
Happy Easter week, everyone! I, like many of you, will be dyeing Easter eggs this week in anticipation of Easter Sunday. In an effort to use more natural ingredients in...
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Styling Your Valentine's Day Table. Some of My...
I’ve been swooning over a few table settings that feel both romantic and effortlessly chic. Here are a few of my favorite settings for a heart-felt evening. ...
Styling Your Valentine's Day Table. Some of My...
I’ve been swooning over a few table settings that feel both romantic and effortlessly chic. Here are a few of my favorite settings for a heart-felt evening. ...
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Marriage Counselor: The Design Job I Never Kne...
As a former Residential Designer, I often joke that one of my unofficial job titles should have been “marriage counselor.” Because let’s be real: renovating a home, especially a kitchen,...
Marriage Counselor: The Design Job I Never Kne...
As a former Residential Designer, I often joke that one of my unofficial job titles should have been “marriage counselor.” Because let’s be real: renovating a home, especially a kitchen,...
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Organizing + Styling Your Kitchen Pantry 101. ...
As a designer I often consult on kitchen pantries big and small with a wide range of budgets. I approach each project with the same focus: understanding how my clients...
Organizing + Styling Your Kitchen Pantry 101. ...
As a designer I often consult on kitchen pantries big and small with a wide range of budgets. I approach each project with the same focus: understanding how my clients...
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Cloud Dancer: Why Pantone’s 2026 Color of the Y...
As a designer, I eagerly wait for Pantone’s Color of the Year announcement every Fall. But this year I had to pause. Pantone’s 2026 Color of the Year is Cloud...
Cloud Dancer: Why Pantone’s 2026 Color of the Y...
As a designer, I eagerly wait for Pantone’s Color of the Year announcement every Fall. But this year I had to pause. Pantone’s 2026 Color of the Year is Cloud...
WEDDING REGISTRY + GIFT GIVING
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Color Inspiration: Valentine's Day Wedding
Valentine’s Day has always felt like an invitation to lean into femininity and romance; and when it comes to weddings, color has the biggest visual impact. For this inspiration, I...
Color Inspiration: Valentine's Day Wedding
Valentine’s Day has always felt like an invitation to lean into femininity and romance; and when it comes to weddings, color has the biggest visual impact. For this inspiration, I...
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Wedding Registry Checklist: Kitchen Essentials
Hey, Holly here! One of the things I truly love is consulting couples who are building their lives (and kitchens) together for the very first time. A kitchen isn’t just...
Wedding Registry Checklist: Kitchen Essentials
Hey, Holly here! One of the things I truly love is consulting couples who are building their lives (and kitchens) together for the very first time. A kitchen isn’t just...
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Wedding Registry Checklist: Dining + Hosting C...
Hey, Holly here! As we step into this next chapter of our lives, one thing that brings me so much joy is helping couples prepare for their future together; especially...
Wedding Registry Checklist: Dining + Hosting C...
Hey, Holly here! As we step into this next chapter of our lives, one thing that brings me so much joy is helping couples prepare for their future together; especially...