September 2007 Entries
This week I made two boards. The first one celebrates autumn at the cottage. It reminds me of the spectacular views delivered by the Canadian forests at this time of the year.
1 | Hostess with the Mostess for New stuff at Zanisa
These natural slate boards available at Zanisa become markers. Little wooden pegs let them stand vertically or horizontally. Use a chalk to identify dishes at a buffet or use them as nameplates at your table. Pretty cool accessories for the party celebrating the end of the cottage season. These markers are from the new collection at Zanisa featured by Hostess with the Mostess this week.
2 | Shelterrific for on the table: flowers, fabric and more
I am a proud owner of similar birch tubes from Small Stump. Naturally, I am a fan. The On the table: flowers, fabric and more post displayed them all dressed up with a ribbon next to a wooden birdhouse as a table marker.
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Sunday, September 30, 2007 12:52 AM | Feedback (1)
If you wish to create awareness for a cause, throwing a party around your cause is a great idea.
For the fight against Breast Cancer, you can plan a dessert buffet or a tea party in the afternoon with your girlfriends.
I fell in love with the cute cupcakes by Sprinkles Cupcakes a few months ago. From October 1 to 14, they will donate the proceeds of the sales of their Pink Ribbon strawberry cupcakes to the Entertainment Industry Foundation’s Women’s Cancer Research Fund. During that period, the strawberry flavor will be available every day.
Modern decor, refined style and strong packaging
Frankly, the retro look so typical of cupcake bakeries look tired; we need more varieties. Here come Sprinkles Cupcakes that opened its first shop in Beverly Hills in 2005. At last, a fresh and modern architecture boutique décor.
Categories:
PARTY ideas
CAKES
PARTY favors
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Saturday, September 29, 2007 12:45 AM | Feedback (3)
A mingling ritual at casual parties is certainly doing the dishes.
Cleaning the dishes comes in play before and after a party. So it works best when the host is prepared. I compiled my top three tips to best distribute the work load.
1 | Do not accumulate before the party
Clean all the dishes you used to prepare your meals. I suggest you do the dishes by hand at this stage. The idea is to always start your event with an empty dishwasher and uncluttered counter space.
After the first course, simply put everything in the dishwasher and your counter will stay spotless. If you own an ultra quiet dishwasher, run a washing cycle as soon as the dishwasher reached the 75% full mark. Then you will be ready to start a full cycle with the main course dishes at the end of the event.
2 | Let your friends help you if they offered
If you host a casual event with 8 or more friends, usually 1 or 2 friends will instinctively start to do the dishes while you are cooking and plating the meals. Etiquette wise, it is best to not ask for help unless you are in trouble. If there is no dishwasher, guests should definitely share the cleaning chores.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Thursday, September 27, 2007 2:34 PM | Feedback (1)
Halloween is a celebration for kids but grownups can have their fun too. Instead of a typical party costume party, why not organize a Victorian Gothic bash this year?
Everyone can dress up nicely. You can host a formal dinner or opt for the food station formula. The 2007 October issue of Martha Stewart's Living proposes wonderful ideas for decorating your space.
To not be stressed out, you can start planning your Halloween event soon. At least, send a Save the Date note to your friends.
Making our own floral arrangement
Going Dutch teaches you how to reproduce a floral display reminiscent of the seventeenth-century master gardener.
I am aware that it is before the Victorian era, but I think both styles complement each other. Since Halloween party is about the paranormal, there is no harm done in mixing periods.
One trick to save money and space if you put the floral arrangement against the wall is to leave the back bare.
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
HOLIDAY
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Tuesday, September 25, 2007 12:32 PM | Feedback (1)
With the popularity of my post about the Plexiglas chandeliers by Incidence, the search for retailers goes on. My search was in vain until now.
I have to thank my husband Jerome for this discovery. An avid gamer, he wanted to go to an event for the launch of Halo 3 in Montreal. On our way over there, we passed a small retailer on Mont-Royal Avenue East. I looked at the window where I saw a multitude of chandeliers and lamps hanging from the ceiling like colorful stars.
I immediately recognized the collection of Incidence chandeliers spread around the small shop. Eureka! Boutique artisanale Un monde is often referred to as an Ali Baba’s cave because the shop is full of treasures and silky materials that make you dream. That fits the bill.
Categories:
HOME decor
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Monday, September 24, 2007 9:04 PM | Feedback (1)
The eco-friendly girl in me relies most of the time on linen napkins at dinner party. But I still stock some paper napkins because their drawings add an instant impact to the table.
Develop your theme from the paper napkins
If you do not know what theme to use for an event, a simple trick is to get your inspiration from the illustrations on paper napkins. From there, develop your theme by accentuating key elements.
The best way to reduce the stress of impromptu entertaining is to be prepared. Opt for motifs that create an instant mood. The jewels of paper napkins are usually found at your local specialized boutiques or the Web.
When you see one motif that really grabs your attention, think how it can fit with your dinnerware. If you can imagine a look, buy right away a pack or two. This way, you can quickly design a stunning table all the time. Build also a reserve of cocktail napkins.
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Monday, September 24, 2007 12:50 PM | Feedback (0)
Who said literacy has not place in party? This week’s mood board is about throwing Read & Write parties. You can host a book reading, a short story writing session, a book review tea party or a Haiku party.
Or books can simply be the gifts of honor. Books and Brunch is an amazing party concept. It is original and yet so simple to implement as a parent baby shower. Here, the new parents will be surprised with their baby’s library full on the best children’s classic.
The concept can be applied to any occasion. A teenager may want to grow his graphic novel collection for his birthday while cooking or home decorating books fit into the bridal shower spirit.
1 | Peoples Paper for DIY + Snow and Graham = Utterly Stylish!
Any party starts with the invites. Alphabet imprints from Snow & Graham make outstanding invitations at a fraction of the price of a custom job. All you need is a laser or inkjet printer to print your message. Thanks to Peoples Paper for publishing DIY + Snow and Graham = Utterly Stylish!, a post that highlighted this wonderful collection.
Categories:
HOME decor
PAPER goods
PARTY ideas
ENTERTAINING
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Sunday, September 23, 2007 8:46 PM | Feedback (0)
I have obligations this week-end so I have to postpone my story. I did the mood board this morning. You will not want to miss it. Make sure to come back Sunday night.
Categories:
OFF topics
posted @ Saturday, September 22, 2007 1:01 PM | Feedback (0)
How do you do it? Simple, you start with the layout.
Before you think about finishes and esthetic framework, it is best to have a clear answer to How you like to cook and entertain within your kitchen?
Even if the shape of the room is a key factor, the layout of your kitchen must first be tailored to suit your lifestyle. After a few months, the love affair with your kitchen will flourish only if you enjoy cooking meals in it.
Meeting with your kitchen designer
By far, casual entertaining is the most popular form of dining party. But easy entertaining means different things to people. So make sure you portray well the way you like to entertain when you meet your kitchen designer.
When you are renovating or designing a house, you need to be prepared to be flexible. Your space may be able to accommodate only your second best kitchen layout. If you express well your priorities, an excellent kitchen designer will be able to create a kitchen that meets your wish list.
Categories:
HOME decor
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Friday, September 21, 2007 12:17 PM | Feedback (1)
I like collecting recipe cards. This is one of the things that you never seem to have enough. I try to find original illustrated models.
I found these on etsy. Stovetopics is the recipe card brand of pinkbathtub. You will get a baker's dozen, 13 beautiful cards for $11 USD. What is interesting is that each card has its own drawing and short phrase.
You can find other illustrated themes like pasta, blueberry and wine & dine at her etsy shop. These collections start at $4.50 USD for a set of 5.
Like I said, we always need more recipe cards. I still preferred to write down on paper my recipes because I find it is more convenient when I am cooking.
Whether it is for you or to include in a hostess gift, take a look at these recipe cards.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Stovetopics Recipe Card Collection - A Baker Dozen by pinkbathtub on etsy.com
Learn more: blog of pinkbathtub
Categories:
PAPER goods
ALL occasions
ENTERTAINING
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Friday, September 21, 2007 12:34 AM | Feedback (1)
I came across Thaw by Mathmos Lights while reading The Notebook blog on Monday.
This company from United Kingdom sells unique lightning products internationally. Mathmos Lights all share a whimsical touch.
Setting the mood with Space Projector
This is a cool affordable gadget, perfect for a dance party. You get everything you need when you buy the Space Projector. The machine and a set of graphics come in the box.
A variety of young designers draw the graphic packs. You can pick the best styles for your party. Basically, you project on a wall or ceiling with interruptions a moving image up to 1.5 meter wide. Choose between 7 graphic themes and 4 oil wheels. The space projector is available in a translucent or a silver finish.
If you want to replicate a psychedelic night club atmosphere, get the oil wheel plus several Fluidium lamps. Fluidium is the update of the lava lamp. And revive the spirit of Austin Powers for a night.
Categories:
PARTY supplies
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Thursday, September 20, 2007 12:13 AM | Feedback (1)
The naive jack-o'-lantern of your childhood does not suffice anymore. Like everything else in life, Halloween decors took on a sophisticated trail.
We may have to thank Martha Stewart for putting more pressure on us. But when you look at the results, the extra efforts are worth it. You start by grouping pumpkins to make a table centerpiece or an outdoor vignette.
With a little skill and patience, everyone can reproduce these striking pumpkins. The October issue of Martha Stewart Living comes with all the templates and a full set of instructions with the tools you need. A version of Denizens of the Dark is also available online.
A few shopping tips
Look at your space and select the best place to set your vignette. Use the provided templates or draw your own. Figure out how many pumpkins you will need based on your overall composition and your space layout before you hit the farm stand or the pumpkin patch. Bring your templates with you. If it is your first attempt at etching, buy a couple extra pumpkins to practice.
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
ALL occasions
HOLIDAY
ENTERTAINING
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Wednesday, September 19, 2007 10:28 AM | Feedback (4)
Why French Chefs master the art of cooking? This is a question that can open many debates.
One thing for sure, the Chefs in France place a superior level of attention to the techniques, the taste and the food presentation.
The culinary creations of Philippe Conticini will not change my mind about my love affair with French cooking. Imagine the Wow factor around your guests if you were to hire a caterer that served desserts like those.
About his style, his philosophy
Philippe Conticini relies on his audacity, his techniques, the tradition and finally his intuition to invent his creations.
What distinguishes a Chef from all of us is that a true Chef knows how to play with every aspect of taste and texture. They often used a wide variety of flavors to achieve the look and taste they are looking for. For him, gastronomy is a game of flavors whether he does a dish, a terrine or a dessert.
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
DISHING tips
DINING
posted @ Tuesday, September 18, 2007 1:02 AM | Feedback (2)
The brainchild of Parisian events entrepreneur Thierry Teyssier, Romaneira is out of ordinary. This is the third House of dreams establishment for Teyssier.
Every detail at Romaneira have been planned to make your stay at this hotel a unique experience. You can see that the owner used to organize events for living. Look at this story as the basis for two mood boards about casual entertaining.
A romantic and sophisticated picnic setting
Do you know a lot of hotels that set a picnic space like this one? Wow! You see that a lot of thoughts have been put to design the picnic space. All the comforts and charms you can dream of are concentrated in a simple, almost humble arrangement. Take notice because you can easily reproduce this look at the cottage.
The containers, the dishes, the linen fabrics display simple shapes. They are the proof that you do not need extravagant pieces to create a refined look. You need to be truthful to a feeling and to pursuit a harmonious look.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
HOME decor
OUTDOOR
ENTERTAINING
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Monday, September 17, 2007 11:16 PM | Feedback (0)
Do you know what is popular this Fall in dinnerware? I will tell you in a series about the latest Fall collections to hit the stores.
If you are an avid reader of my blog, you will be surprised that I started my tour with Habitat, the store empire from United Kingdom.
Last January, Habitat mandated the young ceramic artist Concetta Gallo to design a range of dinnerware and serving ware for their brand. The results are impressive: a white bone china dinnerware collection full of contrasts and juxtapositions.
Bold patterns are in this Fall
Concetta Gallo came up with an artistic and fresh collection where precious gold finish coexists with drawings, photocopied photo effects and smooth graphic lines. As I show you last Friday with Genevieve Lethu, bold patterns are a popular trend for your table.
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Sunday, September 16, 2007 11:07 PM | Feedback (3)
Calling Cards originated in the early part of the 19th Century but Mom & Dad calling cards are a modern day concept. Their popularity is growing constantly.
There is a good reason for that. Mom and Dad Calling cards are so handy when you are leaving your kid at a playdate. Many parents told me they wished calling cards had been around when their children were young.
A family affair
With the father taking a bigger role in the education of their children, having a card that works for both parents is often the most practical option. I was surprised to observe a lack of masculine designs on the market.
Penny People from Toronto listened to my suggestion. She emailed me yesterday about new patterns she introduced that are gender neutral. I want to spread the word.
Categories:
PAPER goods
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Sunday, September 16, 2007 3:12 PM | Feedback (0)
This week's spotlight is about modernized versions of rustic country charms. Fall is the best time of the year to visit antique shops. My mood board mixed antiques, modern style and a Scandinavian connection.
1 | Purple Area for Oväntade kombinationer
With Oväntade kombinationer, the Swedish blog Purple Area shows us a perfect example of the coexistence of old and new.
The rustic island table steals the stage of this modern kitchen. The white washed old wood floor adds characters. Finally, remark what look like a reclaimed wood butcher block on the left side of the picture. Mix it together with an all stainless steel kitchen and you got the recipe for an impressive kitchen decor.
Categories:
HOME decor
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Saturday, September 15, 2007 7:15 PM | Feedback (4)
I have shown you earlier how to use dry ice at Halloween but what if you are looking for a creative idea to a formal event.
A caterer from Toronto, Encore Food with Elegance introduced the smoking pot at an event last February. At last, an original dishing idea that anyone can do at home.
How to do it?
You start by pouring a few small pieces of dry ice in a teapot filled with warm water. Instead of the lid, place a small bowl or a saucer such that the steam can escape from the top and the spout. For the finishing touch, add a scoop of sorbet or ice cream into the bowl or saucer. Voilà!
Sourcing:
Learn more: Web site of Encore Food with Elegance
Via: Read on BizBash Magazine Toronto – June / July 2007 Issue
Categories:
DISHING tips
DINING
posted @ Friday, September 14, 2007 5:11 PM | Feedback (2)
My husband Jerome really likes the idea of a Mad Scientist party theme. So he went online to gather tips and tricks on making drinks and decorative items with dry ice. I share his best finds with you.
Awesome Dry Ice Experiment Videos by Steve Spangler
The first experiment by Steve Spangler for News9 is cool. The graduated cylinders work so well with our Mad Scientist theme. Basically what you need to do is to pour the hot water and pour 2-3 small cubes of dry ice.
Add coloring tablets to look more mysterious. Or you can drop a bent light stick into your bubbling dry ice potion for a great eerie effect.
To have a continuous flow of bubbles, just a little bit of dish soap. Make sure to put the cylinder on larger container to catch the running bubbles. If you only have time to watch one video, I suggest watching the last one on the list, the one named More Dry Ice Experiments.
Categories:
PARTY supplies
HOLIDAY
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Friday, September 14, 2007 2:06 PM | Feedback (0)
This French company is sold around the world which makes Genevieve Lethu brand one of my favorites for my blog.
I spot this dinnerware through an advertisement on Le Journal de la Maison, a French magazine. I enjoy the mix of classic and modern design of the Corso fiorelli. The style is perfect for casual entertaining.
Featured on Genevieve Lethu's Autumn/Winter 2007 Magazine, the company talked about it in these terms:
Deep round shapes, pure lines, silky materials, a dinner service that you choose, as the clothes you wear.
The dinnerware line is quite completed with several options for plates, bowls and cups. Kitchen linens complete the look.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Corso fiorelli dinnerware collection by Genevieve Lethu
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
KITCHEN tools
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Friday, September 14, 2007 10:21 AM | Feedback (0)
After the craft room, the ultimate luxury is a gift wrapping room. I shared the feeling. I used to wrap gifts for my business. So I am well aware of the needs to quickly wrap gifts with a stunning look.
I saw two stories on magazines about this topic lately. In its October issue, Canadian House & Home talks about less stressful and simpler it is when you got everything on hand.
Martha Stewart Living shows something more elaborate, in the typical Martha way. What I like about Martha’s craft room is that the design makes good use of the attic space.
Canadian House and Home gives tips that anybody can do in their own house or apartment. I mixed my own views for the best tips and tricks on how to live enjoyable gift wrapping sessions.
1 | Make a reserve of wrapping supplies
The first rule is to keep coordinated supplies on stock. Having several paper rolls, tissue papers, ribbons, bows, gifts bags, gift tags and greeting cards eliminate the need to rush to the store ever time you want to give a gift.
Categories:
HOME decor
ALL occasions
GIFT IDEAS
REVIEWS
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Thursday, September 13, 2007 12:29 PM | Feedback (4)
We all dream to be able to decorate cakes with like the pro instead of making all-buttercream cakes. If you are not a beginner cake decorator, you may be ready to learn the art of fondant and royal icing.
Before you invest in cake decorating classes, flip the pages of books to see if this is for you. I compiled a list of 4 excellent books.
They all received great reviews on Amazon.com by people that effectively tried to make the cakes. And they passed my tests for the aesthetic and the usefulness of their instructions.
Spectacular Cakes: Special Occasion Cakes for any Celebration by Mich Turner
Mich Turner's credentials include wedding cakes for Madonna, Pierce Brosnan, Paul McCartney, and Catherine Zeta-Jones. In November 2005, her first book Spectacular Cakes was published. She wrote a second book which will hit the store on November 6, 2007.
Categories:
ALL occasions
BIG events
CAKES
ENTERTAINING
DINING
GIFT IDEAS
REVIEWS
posted @ Wednesday, September 12, 2007 10:44 PM | Feedback (2)
Chandeliers are popular for dining rooms and the bedrooms. Crystal chandeliers are gorgeous but not everyone can afford it.
That is why I am thrilled to show you these stylish chandeliers made of Plexiglas and glass.
European flair with Incidence
The first collection is manufactured by Incidence located in France. As with many European design products, you can choose from an array of colors and chandelier models.
The design is sophisticated. I particularly enjoy the uses of 2 or 3 tones; it adds a modern twist to a classical model.
The green model with a single light would look great in a powder room. You could place 3 chandeliers in a row to dress up a long entrance hall. At only 38 € a piece, it is not even an indulgence.
Unfortunately, I did not find a retailer in North America that carries the Incidence chandelier collection. So if you know one, feel free to pass along us this information. Follow-up story: Since then, I found a small boutique in Montreal with the chandeliers by Incidence on stock.
Categories:
HOME decor
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Wednesday, September 12, 2007 7:59 PM | Feedback (8)
Almost two weeks ago, I introduced the wine and dine plates which enable you to carry with your wine glass inside your plate. I found something more fun and exclusive.
I spoke about the importance of having a decent plate rim. Dutch-born designer Alissia Melka Teichroew (AMT) came up with a neat solution with her Handful of Plates. Alissia explained her concept in these words:
Ever been in the middle of a great conversation at a party when you suddenly realize that your canapés have rolled off the flimsy paper plate you’re holding? AMT has a solution: pre-folded, natural-colored ceramic plates that are easy to hold and keep food and utensils in place.
Handful of plates is a trio of plates each with its own level of curved sides. The two higher Taco shell folds were designed for eating. The lesser curved plate can be used for serving food and eating.
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
PARTY supplies
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Tuesday, September 11, 2007 10:25 AM | Feedback (0)
Original and clever serving dishes make a last impression when you are entertaining.
Cucumber, melon and Tomato dish series designed by Willem Noyons clearly qualifies as distinctive pieces. Let’s examine the versatility of the tomato dish.
The pictures tell the story. The cover preserves the freshness of the cut vegetables or it becomes as a serving bowl. The possibilities are endless. For once, someone taught about an integrated pick holder.
The cucumber dish stacks two dipping bowls that can be separated. Whole honeydew melons and cantaloupes stand tall at the center of the melon dish. But do not be fool by these names; you can serve whatever you want in these neat plates.
Not your typical candle holder
Often called Fruit & Fire, Candle Dish really extends the limit of imagination. Candle Dish is a candelabrum that becomes a fruit bowl when you flip it over. Often we do not know what to do with our candle holder when not in use. Having no free storage space in your cabinet is not a problem anymore. Just use Candle Dish as a bowl for your citrus fruits, apples, pears and more.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
KITCHEN tools
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Monday, September 10, 2007 2:09 PM | Feedback (2)
The German Schulte Design Grace Kitchen pushed the envelope of the traditional kitchen islands. The custom made productions in North America look pale compared to this ingenious creation.
The island apron boasts innovative retracting electrical receptacles and five invisible drawers one of which is to house cooking knifes.
The hidden cable management system, the flat cooking surface and a cantilever surface are my favorite features of Grace Kitchen. Schulte Design offers it in five Tutti Frutti woods: olive, apple, plum, walnut and wild cherry.
One way to live large in a small space
Grace Kitchen fits well into the smaller condo units surfacing all over Metropolitan cities. The eating space does more than acting as a breakfast bar. Bring a couple of benches or day beds to get additional seated plates at a dinner party. If you live in a small space, a design like that enables you to set up a dining room without trimming down the living room.
Categories:
HOME decor
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Sunday, September 09, 2007 10:44 PM | Feedback (2)
This week I added a challenge to my weekly column. I decided that the posts of the week must share a common theme. A little bit like a mini inspiration board for a party theme. I liked the experience so much that I will repeat the experience as long as I can.
My first mini board is for a retro chic baking party with your girlfriends. When you plan an event, why not integrate a few activities? For example, organize a baking class in a cooking studio followed by a cocktail party.
1 | Imedagoze for Tools you bake
Who could guess that these elegant cake shapes come from vintage tool molds? These aluminium baking tins are manufactured by German metal goods manufacturer Hugo Bräuer. I dig Tools you bake on Imedagoze blog. Imedagoze is the playground of a mother of two from Singapore who has great admiration for the creators behind every beautiful and creative thing.
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
ALL occasions
DINING
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Saturday, September 08, 2007 7:48 PM | Feedback (1)
I am thrilled to get an email from Annie Michaud yesterday. She just launched a new online store. I am pretty fond of her glass kitchen gadgets.
Collection of food preparation tools
I fancy the Mortar & Pestle, the Lemon Reamer and the Salt Container. My friend Mel owns the glass Mortar and Pestle for several years now. Her mother gave it to her as a housewarming present. These glass kitchen tools are colorful and beautifully crafted. I have seen the finished products at her shop this summer.
Glass objects inject colors in a vibrant yet sophisticated manner. Her kitchen collection is available in black, blue, lime, orange and yellow. So you can coordinate it to your kitchen decor. Since there is no red, I would go for orange or green. The blue is amazing but it does not fit into my decor.
The product descriptions are at the bare minimum. But the pictures give you a good idea of these unique products.
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
DINING
posted @ Friday, September 07, 2007 12:24 PM | Feedback (4)
Halloween is the celebrations where you can invent wild looks. It is your chance to play with fear and the unnatural. So have fun and let the flow of your imagination dictate the look of your party.
If you throw a party for grownups, why not play create a theme around a mad scientist on a scary inhabited island? Decor wise, the possibilities are vast. People can wear a wide range of costumes. For a unified overall look, you could write a script for the party and give in advance anyone a role.
Concept of this Halloween Party
These decorative items by Martha Stewart and by Horchow lay out the foundation of my Halloween themed party. Then add your personal touches. Accentuate the decor with a vignette made of flasks and laboratory instruments. Dress up as a mad doctor in a lab research center.
Categories:
PAPER goods
HOLIDAY
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Thursday, September 06, 2007 12:09 PM | Feedback (7)
I submitted this morning my 3 posts on which one had to be written after August 11, 2007. We will be judged on 5 factors: overall impact, clarity of thought, did it make me want to think/act differently, did it want me to comment/participate and originality.
On my short list, there were also articles on home decor for entertaining and inspiration boards. It was hard but at the end of the day I decided to submit:
At last, my muffin presentation
I selected because this post is a clear example of what I try to accomplish with my blog. I want to give you tips for stylish easy entertaining. The fact that Apartment Therapy Chicago talked about it obviously made me proud. There was a good amount of research involved to create the finished product.
Categories:
IN the press
REVIEWS
posted @ Wednesday, September 05, 2007 10:53 AM | Feedback (1)
This post touches on the story of a beautiful love affair. It has joy and happiness written all over it.
I was thrilled to get my hands on a chic outdoor party theme for grownups. The fact that is easy to reproduce in a classical style garden makes the board even better. And there was orange, my favorite color; I could not resist.
The Casual but Ultra Chic, Budget Friendly Affair inspiration board created by Blythe displays many design elements I enjoyed.
The appetizers on stick garden are something to keep in mind. The L-shaped booth with the vibrant fabric shaded roof feel so festive that not much decorative elements are necessary.
About my alterations
Last week, I came across some wedding pictures taken by photographer Michèle M. Waite for Molly and Brandon’s wedding in Bellingham. The plating of the food served at the rehearsal dinner is a feast for the eyes. I had to show these pictures to you. Blythe’s inspiration board was the perfect occasion.
Categories:
PARTY ideas
DISHING tips
BIG events
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Tuesday, September 04, 2007 2:33 PM | Feedback (0)
I told you last week that I updated three inspiration boards that compete in the Wedding Board Contest organized by the blog Style Me Pretty. It is my way to feature the ideas of her readers.
Why not recycled these wedding boards for a milestone birthday party? I highlighted the couple of changes I made from the original board with a pink square.
The first board is the Pure, Sweet Sophistication wedding board created by EZ. Bluish-greys with chocolate brown are one of my favorite color palettes.
Sept. 5, 2007 Update:
I digged a little bit further and I found out that EZ is the girl behind the blog Creature Comforts.
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
PARTY ideas
BIG events
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Tuesday, September 04, 2007 1:17 PM | Feedback (0)
Who says you must eat sandwiches at a picnic? You can bring a lot more imaginative menu.
To celebrate the last days of warm weather, I gathered for you a sample of easy and quick Italian recipes to do on the spot. Most of these recipes are from David Rocco except for the soup.
I suggest you bring a portable stove or barbecue to cook the main course. You can prepare the rest in advance. I find it relaxing to casually cook in good company. I selected these recipes because they do not require a lot of ingredients and they are easy to prepare at a picnic.
The first course
I start with a cold Honeydew melon soup. This is tasty. But you cannot really call this a recipe. The best way to carry this cold soup is in a Thermos. I want to thank my friend Kat for serving this refreshing soup at the cottage this summer.
Ingredients for the Honeydew soup:
1 Honeydew melon, cut in pieces
Garnish with: small dices of prosciutto, sour crème and cut fresh mint leaves
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
DINING
posted @ Tuesday, September 04, 2007 12:49 AM | Feedback (0)
If you are a fan of Martha Stewart, you are probably familiar with the cake creations of Wendy Kromer. Reproducing her look at home is possible if you buy online her fabulous decorative kits.
I guess that anyone who masters more than the basics of cake decoration can get a pleasing result. These handmade decorative items are carefully crafted. I have to warm you; these are fairly expensive cake decorations. But if you wish to impress your guests with a homemade cake, that is certainly the way to go.
You need to know that some pieces are just decorative. Due to the wires, none of the Marzipan Cherry pieces or the shown Hellebore leaves and flowers are meant be eaten. The Hellebore wired leaves and flowers appear tricky to do.
If you wish to eat them, order instead the box of 16 Marzipan Fall Leaves. Easier to use, these almond paste treats nicely decorate cakes or embellish your dessert trays.
Categories:
PARTY supplies
BIG events
CAKES
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Monday, September 03, 2007 1:20 AM | Feedback (1)