
Series creator Linda Bloodworth-Thomason uses the fictional Atlanta design firm of Sugarbaker and Associates as a witty bully pulpit for caustic social and political humor. The founder of the company is Julia Sugarbaker, a sharp-tongued but elegant and surprisingly compassionate woman. Her younger sister, Suzanne, is a former beauty queen who is long on charm but a bit slow on the uptake. Their associates are Mary Jo Shively, a recent divorcee, and officer manager Charlene Frazier, whose sweetness is matched only by her naivete. Their deliverman is Anthony Bouvier, a well-spoken ex-convict, and cheerfully dotty senior citizen Bernice Clifton often drops by for a visit as well.

Anthony convinces his reluctant colleagues to participate in a program at his former prison.

A discussion of the Clarence Thomas hearings prompts Bernice to realize she was once sexually harassed.

Allison invites herself along when Mary Jo's brother decides to take Quint on a hunting trip.

After an evening together, Julia develops a new respect for Rusty (Michael Goldfinger) the electrician.