Foodie Friday: The BBQ Side Dishes You Need This Summer

 
Burgers and steaks are great, and I could make a meal out of either one. But if you are entertaining with a BBQ, there really needs to be a spread. You want your guests to leave full with memories of summer salads, smokey soups and beans, or a sexy skewer of pasta and cheese. You will want to try at least one of these sensational summer sides.

Watermelon and Jicama Salad

Oh my goodness, is this an interesting salad! And isn't it just brimming with colors? Something that your guests may not have had before.

Williams Sonoma

Grilled Gazpacho

I have made this exact recipe except I added vodka! A fun appetizer that tastes a bit like a bloody Mary. Grilling the veggies adds a nice smoky and 

robust flavor.

Food and Wine

Dressed Up Baked Beans

Life is too short to serve plain baked beans. This recipe takes only 20 minutes, and is loaded with bacon, mustard, and sausage. Try it!

The Modern Proper

Mexican Street Corn Salad

This corn features a zippy, citrusy dressing. It has a low level spiciness that is offset by the citrus.  I think that this is a must make recipe

Saving Dessert

Antipasto Tortellini Skewers with Lemon Basil Vinaigrette

Make these as a summer appetizer or side dish. Super easy to make, and comes together in 30 minutes. Best yet, they are beautiful, and you can prepare them ahead of time.

Half Baked Harvest

Red, White & Blue Potato Salad

There's one thing I know for sure, I will never serve you store bought or plain 'ol potato salad. But if I see you this Summer, I may treat you to this colorful concoction. The recipe features bacon and no mayo!

Heather Christo

Layered Southwestern Cornbread Salad

What a showstopper! This salad actually has 7 components and 11 layers of flavors. Make sure you have long handled servers, so guests can really dig into all of the deliciousness.

Foxes Love Lemons

Heirloom Tomato Carpaccio

This recipe had me at "heirloom." They are really the only kind of tomatoes I enjoy. Mr. Shop This brought home the most gorgeous tomatoes from Whole Foods yesterday. I was so disappointed. Tasteless. So get yourself some heirlooms, slice them super thin, add buratta, pistachios, fresh corn, a balsamic glaze, and enjoy!

Broma Bakery

Grilled Zucchini Stack

The creamy ricotta stuffing is said to be addicting. I think these stacks are just so cute and clever. They work well as an appetizer, salad, or side dish!

Running To The Kitchen

Summer Fruit Salsa & Pesto Hummus

I have been making my own hummus for quite some time. I decided to do so once I saw some of the store bought had sugar in it. And another brand had Canola oil. I didn't want either. It is so easy to make, and you can change a basic recipe up with ease. This one will be my next try. Yum!

Half Baked Harvest

The Best Easy Grilled Vegetables

Grilling brings out every bit of sweetness of plain old veggies. The smokey char from the grill just adds the best depth of flavor. Click the link for wonderful tips and ideas for a pretty platter of healthiness! 

Foodie Crush

Simple Grilled Cauliflower Steaks

I am a bit obsessed with cauliflower. Generally speaking I roast it with every herb under the sun, grated parm, and cinnamon! But I have never grilled it before. What's wrong with me? 

This looks delicious! And please do add the grated parm. You'll love it.

Well Plated

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Fab Finds To Brighten Your Day

I ran across the above photo yesterday. The colors and whimsy made me smile. So today I invite you to shop colorful and fun wardrobe staples from Frances Valentine. There's a couple of pretty picks for your home, as well. I think you will agree, it is a feel good edit. Enjoy!

The Petri Pant
Petri as in Laura Petri? I think that Rob's wife would have looked adorable in them. So will you. These pants are just blooming with style. 

The Red Rock Stack

Stack on the style with this set featuring a little boho chic vibe.

Mandala Caftan 

A wonderful way to express joy and happiness this season. The print features elements of beautiful Mandala. Available up so size 22. Perfect for patio and porch parties.

Table Linens

And why shouldn't your table be as well dressed as you are? These linens are so colorfully chic just like the fashions and accessories.

Teddy Pajamas

Dream in color! If you are a PJ girl, these cotton poplin pajamas are just what sweet dreams are made of!

Cascading Daisy Earrings

Whether he loves you or loves you not, these flowers will never fade. They are both lightweight and colorful.

Camilla Swing Trench

This cute coverall will be something that you have for years. It's a piece that can change up an outfit in a flash. Wear it dressy with a silk slip dress or over jeans. It works any way.

Allison Slingback Heels

Step into warmer weather with panache! The brands's signature "kick ball" sculptural heel is quite fabulous!

Canvas Fringe Hat

These are the cutest hats in a rainbow of colors and patterns. More are on their way. Sign up today to get on the list!

Seagrass Market Basket

Don't you just love a good "straw bag?" This one has been handwoven and trimmed with lucite and Vachetta leather. It is perfect for the farmers market or brunch with friends. Love!

Veracruz Throw Pillow Covers

Infuse your home with pops of prints from Frances Valentine. Don't be afraid to mix things up a bit.

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Wedding Wednesday: Calligraphy At Etsy

{ Via: Paper & Pine }

You'll have them at "hello and welcome." There is no better way to fancy up a wedding than with calligraphy. It's an art for sure, and an elegant one at that. Not everyone can do it. You'll find many talented calligraphers among Etsy's artisans. Get inspired with these fabulous finds. 

    

Script Elegance Wedding Invitation Suite
Here's an elegant choice for the DIY brides. This is an instant download. With your direction and information, the artist calligraphy is sent to you in download form.  In other words, you print your own invitations. The style is classic but yet with a modern vibe, too. Everything is on sale now!
Wedding DIY Boutique

Velvet Vow Books
When every little detail counts. These little books are my all time favorite Etsy find. They are just gorgeous. More color combos available.

Claire Magnolia

Custom Envelope Calligraphy

Perhaps the most important detail for your wedding is the invitation envelope. It's the first element of style that guests see. This Etsy artisan is very talented. Each envelope is addressed by hand in modern pointed-pen calligraphy in white, gold, or black ink

Ellis Page Design

Escort Cards

These seating cards are special. They have been made with homemade paper, and decorated with wax seals. Ribbon is not included.  Just gorgeous!

Wandering Heart Paper

Acrylic Sign

Perfect for saving a row of seats at the ceremony, or a table at any event. You choose the ink and ribbon color. If you prefer, there is a stand that can be included. Simple details.....

Rand A Design Company

Gold Wood Place Card

Your guests will feel so special as they find their personalized and calligraphed place card at the table. Not only will this detail tell them where to sit, but also serves as a party favor. That's lovely

Z Create

Dance Floor Calligraphy Decal

Give your new monogram center stage with these golden details. It can be an major element to your reception, at a minor expense.

Sign Junkies

Wedding Invitation Set
Simply delightful, especially for a Fall or Winter wedding. This suite is totally custom. You select your card stock and paper style. 

Nostalgic Imprints

Butterfly Place Cards

A little something different. They will add a touch of botanical whimsy to your wedding. Fun perched on the side of a champagne glass, too.

Calligraphy Quill

Seating Chart Sign

If you have more than 50 people, you need to assign seating. It is a thoughtful decision to do so. This is such a fabulous way to seat your guests. The acrylic sign is minimal yet luxe looking with the gold hand written names. 

SJ Letter Co. 

Agate Place Cards

Luxe and lovely. These natural agate stones add texture and nature to the table. The gold calligraphy adds the elegance.

Dearly Beeloved LLC

Printable Wedding Wine Labels

This is a beautiful idea for wine service at your wedding.  It adds a personal touch to your event, not to mention disguises the wine brand you

 are serving.
Plus One Print



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Oh Baby Baby!

 

With the arrival of the Harry & Meghan's, Lilibet,  I am in the mood for gifting. Shopping for others can be stressful, but selecting a baby gift is always a joy. Not every baby is born royal, but these gorgeous gifts are fit for royalty.

Toy Unicorn Rocker

Isn't this the sweetest? Your gift will add some magic to the nursery. I remember being gifted with a fabulous furry rocker when our baby was born. Loved it just sitting in the nursery until the baby could ride it. Exclusive to

Bergdorf Goodman

Toile Gift Set

Inspired by the beloved story of Alice in Wonderland, this little outfit and it's terrific toile is so classically chic. Shop the Disney collection at 

Janie and Jack

Felted Wool Animal Mobile 

The sweetest way to soothe a baby to sleep, and add a soft touch to the nursery. Every little bunny has been handmade with organic cotton. It's on sale, and every so lovely. 

Serena & Lily

Munchkin Bluetooth Enabled Baby Swing

Oh how I wish we had this in my baby raising days! This lightweight and portable swing will soothe baby to sleep with the sounds of his or her favorite lullaby. The parents will thank you for this great gift.

Target

Pink & White Baby Shower Gift Set

This sweet set will steal the show. It's a curated set that covers all of the bases. 

Crate & Kids

Michael Aram Baby Feeding Set

Made of stainless steel, this stylish set will melt hearts. A pretty and practical gift.

Neiman Marcus

Deluxe Dock

An award winning docking station for your most precious cargo. It's the ideal spot, for supervised lounging, playing, diaper changing, resting, and tummy time. It can be used around the house or while traveling. It's actually created to mimic the womb. How thoughtful and comfy! Other fabrics and patterns are available at...

Maisonette

Louelle Newborn Gift Set

Cuteness alert! This set features a reversible play mat, matching outfit set, and a cuddly bunny, each item is made from a super soft linen and cotton blend in beautifully bold navy stripes. A stunning gift that will get all of the oohs and ahhs!

The Tot

Pipette Baby Essentials Skincare Set

I wish that I knew then what I know now about chemicals in skincare. This set is adorably "clean," and perfect for the diaper bag. It's EWG verified, so you can give it in good conscious. These products will not hurt the baby.

Goop

Personalized Baby Book

I know first hand how beautiful these books are. I have gifted them and own a scrapbook. They are made from silk, and just very special. There's a nice selection of colors and style to select from.

Rag and Bone Bindery 

Tot-a-Porter Newborn Gift Set

For the classic child. This four piece set has been hand knitted in Spain. It will become a family heirloom. Very special.

Maisonette

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