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Thursday, April 16, 2015

Foodie Friday: Spring Parties - There's An App For That! - Recipes & More

 
(Via One Kings Lane)

Oh sweet Spring! After this Winter, I think we are all ready to soak up the sunshine and warmer weather. I am ready to celebrate almost anything. A cocktail and an appetizer always does the trick for me. I have gathered a stylish selection of  lighter but fancy fare, and presentation pieces that are party perfect for your next Spring soiree.  Cheers!




Prawn Cerviche Verde
I love the upscale look of individual appetizers.  My "hostess with the mostest," good friend, Kelly, often serves this way at her stylish soirees.  This recipe is both refreshing and said to be very simple to create. Love the edible flower garnish, too!
Feasting At Home

You can find mini appetizer/dessert service cups at Amazon


Justina Blackeney Mango Mojito
I love everything about this cocktail, from the name to the Moroccan Highball glasses in which it is served. Get the recipe and all the fix'ns at
One Kings Lane


Oyster Rockefeller
Know your audience before serving this super chic dish. If you want to impress, this is what you offer the boss, an important client, or the future in-laws.
Gourmet Traveller


Grilled Caprese Toast
Gorgeous, right? With grilled avocados Burrata cheese, Heirloom tomatoes and Balsamic vinegar, one cannot go wrong. The idea of serving this recipe on a board is attractive, too.  I found a beautiful wooden serving board at AHALife.
Half Baked Harvest


Tuna Tartare on Potato Chips
I would have never thought about serving one of my favorite foods on a chip! This is just such a stylish idea, that it is a must try. I might add that using a specialty chip is a good idea.
Oprah.com


Smoked Salmon Canapes
When throwing a party, it is a smart move to throw in a few easier recipes, just to cut down on time. This app takes less than 10 minutes to assemble, yet looks so elegant. Note the color of the flowers matches the salmon. Love that!
Food Apprentice



Kate Spade Melamine Tray
Yes please! In true Kate Spade style, this whimsical tray will make your guests smile. Party perfect in or outdoors. It is nicely priced, making it a great gift for the hostess.
Zhush


Manhattan Sea Breeze
A preppy chic cocktail in shades of pink and green.
Midtown Girl


Ginger-Miso Sweet Pea Spread
{ Dairy Free}
How beautiful! A lovely alternative to creamy dips. 
Food and Wine


Crispy Zucchini and Potato Pancakes
Here's a recipe of Giada De Laurentiis. These little squares look and sound delicious. The marscapone piped on top is the icing on the pan -"cake." Watch the video at
Food Network


Fringe Firecracker Party Picks
Accessories are always key. These party picks will get the party going. Perfect for garnishes, appetizers, cocktails and appetizer buffet decor.
Provisions at Food52


Fig And Stilton Squares
This three ingredient appetizer is the perfect blend of savory and sweet. Very easy, too!
Food And Wine



Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Toast
A spin on the traditional. Isn't everything better with bacon? Looks like a perfect bit.
Food52



 Porcelain Plates & Serving Pieces
Rosanna always offers terrific tabletop dinnerware and serverware. Calypso is bright and ever so right for Spring. Fun to mix and match.
Classic Hostess


Feta Dip With Watermelon Radishes
I have never knowingly had a Watermelon Radish until this week at Mariposa, Neiman's restaurant They were mild and gorgeous. What a fabulous idea for dipping.
Bon Appetit



Red Potatoes With Tomato-Avocado Salsa
Most people love guacamole, so it is always a winner. This recipe elevates your average avocado into a beautiful bite.
Pop Sugar



Grosgrain Border Cocktail Napkins
Cute paper napkins can be fun, but nothing beats a proper cotton or linen napkin. These are a bright way to add life to the cocktail table.
Mark & Graham


Cantaloupe, Mozzarella, Prosciutto & Basil
Talk about Spring pastels! What a pretty platter these basics create. It's all about the presentation!
Martha Stewart


Artichoke Pesto and Lemon Ricotta Crostini
I love a good homemade pesto, don't you? Working with artichokes can be tricky, but don't worry, these are trouble free. The recipe calls for frozen artichoke hearts. The end result is just so fresh for Spring.
Heather Christo

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Sur La Table Spring_125x125




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Seven Stylish Splurges Or How To Spend Your Tax Refund

( Via Vogue )

Remember that scene? It wasn't the tax man who visited that Pretty Woman, instead Richard Gere was the provider of the famous fashion splurge.  If you received a tax refund this year, that means you gave some to others and probably too much to Uncle Sam. Isn't it time to treat yourself? The jury is out for me, not sure what the accountant is going to say.  But for today, I am pretending that my refund is BIG. As you will see, I am going for the gold. Come window shopping with me!

Donna Karan

HERE: Seven Stylish Splurges

Jeffrey Campbell's Meander Sneakers 
Sneak Attack! I'm having one over these golden goodies. They will just be perfect for lakefront walks with black yoga pants and a long wrapped kimono jacket. #Need!
Nasty Gal 



The Studded Eden Cross Body
And to go with said outfit and those stylish sneakers, this fabulous cross body bag. 
CC Skye


Le-Coterie Curly BeBe Bench
A fave furniture find! I have two spots for this beautiful bench in my home.
One King's Lane


Tom Ford Lip Color
Vanilla Suede. I have been looking all my life for the perfect nude. This is it. Normally a lipstick would not be a 'splurge,' but a $50 lipstick is. This one is made with "rare and exotic ingredients, including soja seed extract, Brazilian murumuru butter and chamomilla flower oil, create an ultra-creamy texture with an incredibly smooth application." I know that this color would make my pout shout!
Nordstrom


Stelle Audio Couture Pillar
Stunning sound and chic style. I love to listen to my music while I write. And this stylish cylinder would look great in any room of my home.
AHAlife

Save 15% With Code: AHA15 Ends 4-30

Rimowa North America Topas 
          I like my luggage, as I have a closet full of Louis Vuitton and various other nice brands. But it is all heavy, and I am over limit before I really get started. These aluminum  pieces are lightweight and super stylish. Expensive, yes, but so are those over weight limit charges!   
Neiman Marcus


Lulu Frost Plaza Collection
The Plaza Collection features bronze cast numbers and letters in the original font from New York's iconic Plaza Hotel. Since I have had many wonderful stays at this NYC Grand Dame. these pieces would be very special to me. And those tassels - irresistible!
Lulu Frost

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Wednesday, April 15, 2015

Wedding Wednesday ~ Details: Gift The Guests


When it comes to weddings, it's all about the details. Colin Cowie, party planner extraordinaire says,"True style has nothing to do with how much money you spend, It doesn't matter how many flowers you use or what kind of caviar you serve; it's about how you treat your guests." There is no set rule about "gifting guests," but if  there is room in your budget, it is a nice touch and another way to show your creativity.  For more inspiration, be sure to read The Wedding Paper Diva's blog post: 10 Thoughtful Items to Include in Wedding Guest Welcome Baskets HERE




Mini Woven Picnic Baskets
Gifting your guests with a fresh treat? Pack them in these adorable little baskets. I just love this idea. Use a ribbon color that best matches your personal color palette, and attach a personal note.
Beau-Coup

Save 20% off all Gifts, Decor, Favors & More. Code: MOST Ends 4/15
Save 15% off $50+ Code: COTTON Valid 4/16 - 4/17


Wedding Welcome Bag
One of the loveliest bags I have seen. Sorry, but the source of this bag is no where to be found.  I love that it is large enough to fill with all the right stuff for a destination wedding welcome. You can find many cotton welcome bags at Etsy
Wedding Paper Divas


Black and Gold Wedding Favor Bags 
Add a little glam to the candy buffet. Everyone loves a sweet treat! These bags just say celebrate.
Mod Party Etsy


Art Deco Cylinder Boxes With Clear Lid
If you choose to present a table gift, these little boxes are oh so glam. Also available in black. A perfect size to hold a special truffle!
Wedding Star



Metallic Silver or Gold Notebook
As seen in Martha Stewart Weddings, I am crazy for these lovely little lined books. Who couldn't use one? Perfect for packing in a Welcome Basket or Bag. And if your color palette is gold or silver, they will look fabulous on the table. Priced right to buy in multiples.
Haute Papier at Etsy



Damask Favor Boxes
Elegant little treasure boxes add a special touch to a table. Fill them with mints, M & M's, a thank you note. Or with a label they can serve as table or place cards.
Beau-Coup

Save 20% off all Gifts, Decor, Favors & More. Code: MOST Ends 4/15
Save 15% off $50+ Code: COTTON Valid 4/16 - 4/17



2 Piece Godiva Favor
The perfect $5 favor! It comes with a ribbon in the color of your choice. I love the idea of adding yourself, a stem of flowers. It really adds a beautiful touch. An elegant gift that actually will be appreciated.
Godiva

Save 15% on $75 Orders. Code: HOLIDAY



Garrett Popcorn Favor Bags
Giving something your favorite city is known for is great inspiration. Chicago is  home to this iconic and delicious popcorn. They have many ideas as to how to give this special treat. This bag is rather perfect for a gold theme.
Garrett Popcorn Shops



Confetti Gift Bag
Love these envelopes for presenting wedding details at your destination wedding! Print up the schedules and leave for your guests in their hotel rooms! 
Beau-Coup

Save 20% off all Gifts, Decor, Favors & More. Code: MOST Ends 4/15
Save 15% off $50+ Code: COTTON Valid 4/16 - 4/17



Wedding Sparklers
A little night magic for all of your guests.  Everyone will love taking an active part in the celebration. What fun! Available from 10 inches - 36 inches,
Beau-Coup

Save 20% off all Gifts, Decor, Favors & More. Code: MOST Ends 4/15
Save 15% off $50+ Code: COTTON Valid 4/16 - 4/17



Natural Rustic Burlap Gift Bag 
Rustic weddings seem to be a popular theme these days. Fill these bags with anything you wish for a touch of elegance.
For Love Polka Dots Etsy



Bride Petite Caramel Apple Assortment
Have you had a Mrs. Prindable's apple? They are simply the best and come in all varieties. Perfect for a sweet table or as an individual gift at the end of the evening. 
Mrs. Prindable's Apples



Gerber Daisy Favor Boxes with Personalized Labels
If hot pink and orange is your color palette, these happy boxes are made for you. Add color to each place setting or plant a field of flowers at a favor table.  
Beau-Coup

Save 20% off all Gifts, Decor, Favors & More. Code: MOST Ends 4/15
Save 15% off $50+ Code: COTTON Valid 4/16 - 4/17



Rosemary Lemon & Basil Lemon Caramels
Looking for something to put in creative gift boxes like the daisies above. Dare to be different with these herb infused grown up candies from Chocolate Twist.
Provisions at Food52

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Tuesday, April 14, 2015

In Full Bloom: Fab Florals For Spring



If you fancy a flower, this is the season for you. The designers have created a crop of chic collections for you, the men in your life, children, and your home. Pretty petals come in soft pastels and bold brights. A single posy or a pocketful, the choice is yours.  So today I invite you into my into my garden. Which bud is for you?


NORDSTROM - Shop Jewelry Gifts


HERE: 15 Fab Floral Finds

Monogram Floral Phone/iPad Case
For all of your flowery words and conversations. A gorgeous gift for any woman.
Zhush


Erin Fetherston Rose Dress
This fab floral fit and flare is picture perfect for Spring Summer Soirees.
Anthropologie


Black Floral Mary Janes
Mini Melissa's darling daisies adorn Isabela Capeto's baby Mary Janes.


Amrapali Bedding Set 
Wake up any bedroom with this pretty pick from Designers Guild.
Burke Decor


Michael Kors 
Flower-Detailed Leather Belt
I have a similar belt from the seventies. Fun to know that I am still in style!
Neiman Marcus


Wow About That Flat
CL by Laundry's pretty pointy toe flats are black and white and fab all over. They are a bargain, too!
Mod Cloth


Tiny Universe Dress
Made from soft and stretchy jersey cotton, this dress is as comfy as it is chic. Nicely priced for gifting.
Childrensalon


June Strapless Bustier and Skirt
No wallflower here with Alice and Olivia's ball gown skirt and top. Such a pretty pick! Click and scroll down.
Alice and Olivia


Kate Spade New York Rose Park Dinnerware
A rose is just a rose unless Kate Spade designs it. Kate has managed to make an average flower, fun.
Bloomingdale's


Aletta Baby Nest 
Oh to have a baby girl, again! Could anything be sweeter? What a lovely gift.


Market Street Washi Tape
These pretty paper tape designs add a floral flair to almost anything. Embellish cards, scrapbooks, shelves and so much more with fab florals.
Paper Source


Deborah Rhodes Flower Napkin Rings
As seen in April's O Magazine, these pretty petals make your tablescape come alive. 
Neiman Marcus


Palm Island Swim Trunks
Yes, real men can wear flowers, especially with legs like this!
Ralph Lauren


Kate Spade Carry-On 
Oh, Girl, you do carry on! This fun floral bag guarantees an instant upgrade to first class.
Nordstrom

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