February 2008 Entries
Travel + Leisure magazine published this month an interesting review of 5 cupcake shops in Los Angeles. Each of these old-fashioned American cake shops has something different to offer.
The winners stand out through their recipes, cake decorations and packaging. Here are 5 cupcakes shops that emerge as the place to go.
Bluebird Café
From my research on the Web, the cupcakes of the Bluebird Café in Culver City are delicious. Their Crayola-bright cupcakes are offered in mini sizes. A practical format if you cannot make up your mind or when you set up a dessert table. Located in Culver City, Bluebird Café attracts the movie studio crews.
Since I did not taste in myself, I looked for a second opinion on the Web. I found a review by the food blogger Bree Crocetti of Triplecreme who said in 2006 the following:
Categories:
TRAVEL
CAKES
DINING
posted @ Friday, February 29, 2008 10:40 PM | Feedback (0)
It is fun to go at a trendy restaurant with a young, well-dressed crowd, beautiful décor and most important with incredible food. That was on my agenda last Saturday night. I elected Kultura as the place to review.
My husband and I went to dinner with three of friends that were participating in PodCamp Toronto. Earlier that day, I tried to reserve a table for 2 but Kultura was already fully booked. They told us that we could eat sitting at the counter of the Lounge. That is what we did with our friends.
Everybody enjoyed the meals. Since we were sitting at the lounge, it was noisier but we could still have a conversation. Executive Chef Roger Mooking brings a new twist on multi-ethnic cuisine. The dishes surprise us with an unexpected mix of flavors. The food presentation was imaginative.
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
DINING out
DINING
posted @ Friday, February 29, 2008 4:43 AM | Feedback (7)
I wrote my recipe at the end of this post. First, let me introduce my inspiration on a video filmed next to a spa refreshment station in the Californian Wine Country. We stayed at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa a few nights.
Since it is no more fashionable to serve bottled water, the trendy hostess needs to dish up the tab water. Last summer, I showed you how to serve a pitcher of water with fresh berries. The look was great but the taste of the water is not distinctively altered by the berries.
Cucumber water improves the taste of tap water. Spa aficionados already experience the benefits of cucumber water for improving the look of your skin. On top of it, this drink is simple to make at home.
Cucumber Water Recipe
In order for the cucumber to fully release its juice, you need to prepare it the day before your event.
Ingredients:
- 1 cucumber, sliced and unpeeled + 6-7 cucumber slices for decoration
- 1 1/2 to 2 liters of water
- 3 mint sprigs + 2 mint sprigs for decoration
- Half a lemon, sliced and unpeeled
- Ice cubes
Categories:
EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
TRAVEL
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Thursday, February 28, 2008 9:40 PM | Feedback (2)
I want to fill my kitchen with the Kähler ceramic. Their unique shapes of their modern designs and the remarkable craftsmanship make the ceramic by Kähler second to none.
Founded by Herman Kähler, this Danish company started designing and producing handmade ceramic pieces in 1839. Today, they still pursue the same level of excellence and innovation that made their success.
Each individual ceramic piece bearing the name Kähler has been shaped in skilled hands from a technique passed down from one generation to the next.
Their current team of innovative designers is all issued from Danish design schools. These ceramic pieces are more than a pretty face, how well they function testifies of the level of thinking that goes into creating these products.
Unique modern centerpiece
Wonderful as a dinner table centerpiece, FIDUCIA is a set of candlesticks and flower vases linked by strong magnets. You can separate the pieces at will. Let you creativity flow and arrange them in a snakelike line, make small clusters or pair them.
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
DINING
posted @ Thursday, February 28, 2008 3:32 PM | Feedback (0)
We stayed in the hip and fun Hotel Vitale San Francisco yesterday. I love the place. We had appetizers and drinks at The Americano. We went to dinner at the famous Tadich Grill, the oldest restaurant in California. It dated back to the Gold Rush era.
We ate breakfast at Frog Hollow Farm, an organic bakery at the Farmer’s Market of One Ferry Building next to The Embarcadero. Their risotto tart is absolutely divine. Now, we are in the Wine Country. The weather is fabulous.
I will write the details of the fabulous places where I stayed and ate in the coming days.
Categories:
TRAVEL
posted @ Wednesday, February 27, 2008 5:02 PM | Feedback (0)
With the death of packaged theme for home decor, the art of coordinating can scare some of you. Not everyone knows all to mix products into a tailored yet cohesive design.
Beginners who wish to mix styles can rely on a proven, simple method. Start by finding one thing (furniture, accessories, painting or plate) that you like and derive the rest from that element.
Practice with small projects like designing every week end a new tabletop. Why not reinstate the old-fashioned family dinner every Sunday? Use this occasion to also practice new recipes and food plating. Ask your family for help so everything runs smoother the next time you have guests over for dinner.
My 5-step guide to better design your tabletops
To teach you the basics, I developed a 5-step guide. More design rules are involved but these 5 steps will help develop your sensibility.
- Consider all the dinnerware and the home accessories that you have on your house.
- Examine them carefully individually and collectively.
- Pay attention to the shapes, colors, textures, finishes and emotions.
- Look for both similarities and contrasts.
- Let flow your creativity and explore compositions and concepts.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
TABLESCAPE
KITCHEN tools
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Wednesday, February 27, 2008 12:34 PM | Feedback (1)
This talented artist grabbed my attention because her work titled A light's drawing. The usual suspects appear as silhouette shadow on the placemat.
Regarding at her portfolio, Sandra Bautista probably did it for an artistic purpose. But I find the concept to be chic and fun for entertaining. If you find a place where we can buy those, please inform me.
About A light's drawing, her creator Sandra Bautista says:
Everyday light draws for us...but we never realized...
The graphics on the whole set come from the real shadow so that all objects are related to each other and when using it you will discover all of them.
A time saver for entertaining
If you are too busy, you would not have to bring the plates at the table. But make sure the glasses, the napkins and the utensils are on the table before your guests arrive. One inspiration that complements those placemats is the diner restaurant experience. You can insert the flatware in three ornate glasses, jars or flower vases.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
TABLESCAPE
LINENS
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Tuesday, February 26, 2008 8:26 PM | Feedback (1)
My husband saw a homemade flyer in front of the Royal York that was offering a $15,000 reward, no questions asked for returning a dog.
The super luxury housing market emerged over the last six months in Toronto with condo units now listed at 12 million dollars. With money comes experimentation and market differentiation.
An overview of a super luxury market in Toronto
The topic of one design talk at IDS 08 was Upsizing of the condo market: a lifestyle trend. What is happening right now is not just higher priced condominiums. The builders are offering more choices than ever to the consumers.
Some projects offer the freedom to design your unit with architects and designers before it is even built. Many builders hire a team of star architects and designers to make sure their design is well thought.
Categories:
HOME decor
OFF topics
TRENDS
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Monday, February 25, 2008 2:46 AM | Feedback (4)
I went to 4 design talks when visiting the Interior Design Show. Each design talk will be reviewed separately. I am starting with a report on What were the most important trends over the last decade?
The panel animated by Trevor Kruse of Hudson Kruse Design was composed with the design journalists of the Globe & Mail's Lifestyle Section. We had the pleasure to hear the thoughts of Janice Lindsay, Danny Sinopoli and Karen Von Hahn. Janice Lindsay is the founder of PINK, Colour + Designer.
Categories:
HOME decor
TRENDS
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Sunday, February 24, 2008 10:52 AM | Feedback (0)
I met two of The Designer Guys, Tommy Smythe of Design Inc. with Sarah Richardson plus a few more celebrities at the Interior Design Show in Toronto.
I saw lots of fabulous design ideas and products. Stay tuned!
Categories:
HOME decor
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Saturday, February 23, 2008 7:51 PM | Feedback (6)
Anything can be a source of inspiration for a party. This morning, it was inspired by the cover of the upcoming album of the Dutch jazz band Room Eleven. I got that scoop while reading Sia Grafica blog.
The album cover became the inspiration for a housewarming party. But I could have decided to make it a bridal shower party.
I heard the band last summer when they came to the Montreal Jazz Festival. Room Eleven’s songs remind me of the Dolce Vitae, the happiness found in the little things in life. The vintage cover inspires my choice of gift ideas.
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
ALL occasions
ENTERTAINING
DINING
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Friday, February 22, 2008 1:02 PM | Feedback (1)
While I was in New York shopping in SoHo, I stopped by Dean and DeLuca. We just finished eating in the Korean neighborhood so I feel sad because I was not hungry.
With so many delicacies, gourmet foods, cakes and pastries, wines plus a dishware section, Dean & DeLuca is THE one-stop shopping for epicurean cooking, eating and entertaining.
Take the cake section. Save time and buy a cake instead of making your own. Their cupcakes and their mini cakes are stylish. I remembered the Busy Bees and the Coconut Layer Cakes.
Your can serve several mini cakes for dessert instead of a normal size cake. The stylish hostess will present the mini cakes in dome stands, which you can buy there. That is what I called the ultimate one-stop shopping experience.
Gift store
If you need to pick up a wonderful hostess gift in a hurry this is the place to go. I am showing some products that I like. In fact, I spotted a few things for baking and food presentation while I was in Manhattan that I will grab on my next visit. Remark that not all their products are shown online.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
ALL occasions
HOSTESS gifts
ENTERTAINING
DINING
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Thursday, February 21, 2008 12:32 PM | Feedback (1)
Like many wedding blogs these days, Project Wedding was born out of the needs of a couple to find the right vendors for their big day. The site connects brides across the United States and helps them share ideas, advice and vendor recommendations.
The photo gallery is huge. You can find inspirations for your dress, reception, ceremony, flowers, cakes, invitations, amongst other things. I selected key photographs that showcase what I considered to be excellent entertaining habits.
Greeting Guests
These festive lanterns on bamboo sticks are great to illuminate an outdoor party at night. Put three rows at the entrance pathway to greet your guests in style. Select harmonizing colors with your party décor, ideally on a brighter or a warmer tone. I avoid pastels because the color is lost at night when lighted.
Centerpieces
Following my post of how to select a centerpiece, I am showing you two successful tabletops. The centerpieces would not interfere with conversations, the tables are not overcrowded, the design is kept simple yet the tables look out of the ordinary. The long rectangular tables feel homier than the round tables. Before personal taste, the table shape is determined by the size of the room and how many people will sit down at your dinner party.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
TABLESCAPE
DISHING tips
BIG events
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Wednesday, February 20, 2008 1:49 PM | Feedback (0)
If you want to learn and see what is hot or not in home decor, stop by the Toronto Interior Design Show (IDS 08) that will start tomorrow. The general public can assist Saturday February 23, 2008 from 10 AM to 7 PM and Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM.
I am planning to visit on Saturday. Admission is $16 if purchase in advance or $18 at the door for adults. Saturday's schedule features:
- International Design stars on the KRUPS Stage
- Seminars on all things design
- The IDS Workshops are new this year:
- Saturday’s workshop will be DESIGN & DECORATING TRENDWATCHING by Cobi Ladner, Editor at Canadian House & Home magazine and Mark Challen, Vice-President Communications also from the magazine. Unfortunately, the 100 places are sold out.
- There are some places left for the LIVING WITH A COMMITMENT TO GREEN workshop on Sunday.
- What's Your Design Dilemma? This is your chance for a free 15 min. consultation with one of ARIDO's registered interior designers. Appointments are on a first-come first-served basis and arranged upon visiting the ARIDO booth (1617).
Categories:
HOME decor
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Wednesday, February 20, 2008 12:07 PM | Feedback (2)
Chocolate Fondue is one of my all time favorite desserts. It is great for mingling and it tastes so delicious. Better yet, you feel good afterwards since you ate lots of fresh fruits dipped with chocolate.
While I was exploring Design & Inredningsbloggen, the Swedish retailer danskdesign.nu caught my eyes with its modern housewares and furniture. The design of chocolate fondue sets is not the most innovative typically.
But that was before Jacob Wagner designed in 2007 its Menu Chocolate Fondue Set. The sleek white porcelain set unites wit and style. With its elongated tray / plate, it is designed to be your own Fondue Set or to share on a romantic dinner. Quite elegant for entertaining!
From their Copenhagen, Denmark office, Jakob Wagner Design creates award winning products and furniture for international clients like Moroso, Magis, Bang & Olufsen, Iittala and Georg Jensen. They designed the Potholder last year.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Tuesday, February 19, 2008 10:54 AM | Feedback (2)
The most stylish first lady is still Jackie Kennedy. My husband told these pictures of me with the President John F. Kennedy and his wife Jackie when we visited Madame Tussauds in Las Vegas.
My advice if you planned to visit one of the world Madame Tussauds' museum is to dress up nicely. This way, your pictures mingling with the waxed celebrities will look more realistic. We just came back from our helicopter trip to the Grand Canyon, so I did not. I regretted it.
Formal entertaining tips
Until April 3rd, 2008, you can take a close look at Jacqueline Kennedy's distinctive and innovative approach to entertaining in the White House. It is an intrusion on the art of formal entertaining; an art that is getting lost unfortunately.
Jacqueline Kennedy Entertains: The Art of the White House Dinner is taking place at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston.
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
TRAVEL
MANNERS
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Monday, February 18, 2008 12:06 PM | Feedback (1)
I love fashion and nice clothes. So I could not stop admiring these divine wedding dresses.
I wore a stylish ivory princess dress when I got married but if I was getting married this year, the hand-painted creations of Amarildine from Paris would be on the top of my list.
These front windows are artfully styled with crafted jewelries and accessories. To give you an idea, the hair and the bouquets were nicely done with white shredded paper.
If these gowns are not your style, Kleinfeld Bridal carries the largest selection of wedding dresses. And they carry their own exclusive collections created by designers around the world: London, Paris, Italy and Israel.
About Kleinfeld Bridal
Founded 60 years ago, Kleinfeld Bridal is an institution in Manhattan; they started in Brooklyn. Nearly 200 dedicated professionals, including on-site stylists and bridal consultants, and custom fitters, sewers, beaders, embroiderers and pressers can assist you. With the right fit, you will be the stunning bride walking down the aisle.
Categories:
PARTY ideas
BIG events
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Monday, February 18, 2008 10:58 AM | Feedback (1)
Yesterday, I went to Chelsea because I wanted to taste a fresh-brewed cup at Grumpy Café on the 20th Street in Manhattan.
After reading the January 23, 2008 article on the New York Times, savoring a coffee made with the $11,000 Clover 1s machine was on the top of my list.
And after having a terrible cup of coffee at the airport restaurant plus an average coffee on the plane, going at my Grumpy Café was my treat.
Was it is my appraisal? At first, the coffee was too hot so I could not fully appreciate it. But as it cooled off, I enjoyed the flavors of my freshly brewed coffee more and more. My husband shares my opinion.
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
TRAVEL
DINING
posted @ Sunday, February 17, 2008 12:11 PM | Feedback (0)
As I was assembling my photo board of my Valentine’s Day private event, it became clear that this board illustrates a fundamental design principle.
My regular readers probably know by now that I strive for mixing and matching. I prefer subtle themes.
One of the easiest tricks to achieve cohesion is to repeat the same elements applied on a different way. The repeating elements should be naturally integrated into your design to be successful. In short, it should not be obvious.
I will move back and forth between how I celebrated Valentine’s Day and my design lesson.
The Story behind My Bouquet
I have to thank my caring husband for giving me this modish bouquet. I am sure that the bouquet had my name written all over me because it is so much my style. My husband had several meetings yesterday so he stopped by my favorite florist at the end of the day.
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
PARTY ideas
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Friday, February 15, 2008 2:30 PM | Feedback (0)
To conclude my series on Valentine’s Day this year, I thought of leaving you with inspirational shots. I will also share with my plans to celebrate Valentine's Day.
Food
The food is from the La Porte restaurant on Saint-Laurent Street in Montreal. I took these pictures last October. The oysters tasting plate was amazing.
Restaurant La Porte is a story of love. First of all this is a small French restaurant run by a couple. Thierry et Pascale Rouyé had a restaurant in France before they moved to Canada. These long-time restaurateurs have transmitted their love affairs to their son who is a sous-cook under his Chef father.
The restaurant is named La Porte because they imported a stunning wooden door that they saw while visiting Morocco. It is the focal point of their restaurant.
Finally the attention to details and simply hearing them talking about their dishes indicate that food is a true passion for them. I recommend you try La Porte the next time you fancy upscale French cooking.
Categories:
HOLIDAY
DINING out
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Thursday, February 14, 2008 12:48 PM | Feedback (0)
I was at a wedding not too long ago where the centerpieces were at the wrong height. After 30 minutes, one guest sitting at our table had enough to not see everyone sitting at the table that he removed the centerpiece from our table. This may be an extreme behavior (that I do not endorse btw) but this action clearly demonstrates that the comfort of your guests must be a top priority.
Before you decide on the kind of flowers, the colors or a specific arrangement for your centerpieces, consider the human scale factors and analyze carefully the room where the event will take place.
In my mind, the elements that you must consider first refer to:
Room Ornamentation
If you host your party in a castle style room with moldings and ornamentation, the room already makes a statement. You should not try to compete with the room. In a room like, minimalist elegance typically work best.
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
PARTY supplies
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Thursday, February 14, 2008 2:19 AM | Feedback (2)
Now that genuine Absinthe is back to the United States, the stylish entertainers have to learn how to serve this herbal alcohol concoction.
My husband’s cousin told me about a bar in Boston where they served Absinthe by dripping iced water with a stylish Absinthe Fountain. It intrigued me since I only saw and tasted the unfashionable sugar on fire method before (a no-no). So I was glad to grab an issue of Imbibe this week that made it clear to me.
Now that I am in the know, I will give you the scoop on how to properly serve absinthe to your guests. The few required tools bring back the art of formal entertaining, a decorum that is missing today. Do not be intimidated by this more elaborate service. Instead, think about it as producing a show, living an adventure for you and your guests.
What is Absinthe?
Absinthe, like pastis, is served as an aperitif. Both drinks have a strong anise (licorice) flavor.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
TRENDS
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Wednesday, February 13, 2008 3:02 PM | Feedback (5)
What do you do once you already hosted all the tasting parties that you can think of? If you live in the UK, you can hire the well-know whisky sommelier Jamie Forbes for a night of whisky tasting and tutorial.
What it is?
The hip brand Monkey Shoulder targets customers who would not typically drink whisky. Their niche is the cool, liberal mind crowd. They recently launched their latest marketing tool in the form of an exclusive party event.
Travelling Whisky Rooms feature a chic burnt oak mobile bar created by the British cabinet maker Paul Kelley. A minimalist design that becomes more beautiful once opened. Your master of ceremony is a well-known whisky sommelier in London named Jamie Forbes.
Travelling Whisky Rooms deliver to discerning people a unique party experience in the comfort of their home. You and up to 14 of your guests can taste 5 different whiskies from Scotland. The night cumulates with a few whisky based cocktails. And if you do not like whisky,
Categories:
EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Wednesday, February 13, 2008 1:32 AM | Feedback (0)
After a career as a jewelry, fashion and accessories designer, Alison Dawson found a new vocation when she founded Chapeau de Gateau (cake hat in French).
As you can see, Alison Dawson produces stylish cake toppers. Every detail is taking care including delivering your one-of-a-kind cake topper in a keepsake box.
Ideal for wedding and any special occasions, each Chapeau de Gateau topper is handmade with the finest quality Mokuba ribbons. These ribbons are imported from Japan.
Cake toppers can be chosen from the Chapeau de Gateau line. For the ultimate in event design harmonization, opt for a custom designed topper.
The talented cake maker / decorator, Papillon Cakes, that I introduced two days ago, works with Chapeau de Gateau.
Categories:
PARTY supplies
BIG events
CAKES
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Tuesday, February 12, 2008 1:21 AM | Feedback (1)
The Web site of IKEA has a new feature. For their latest worldwide campaign, IKEA features four Calm Bedrooms as an interactive catalogue.
A microsite showcase four styled bedrooms for women and couples. You see how people used the space through slow motion animations.
What is cool is that you can change angles and click on the furniture to get more information. I like that the new information opens another tab so I can still watch the film.
Four personas, four looks
Like I said earlier, the flash animations featured film clips in accentuated slow motion. The films tell the stories of a specific demographic group.
Each film is based on the same scenario that is repeated for 4 decors. Each film highlights first how a woman endured stressful situations during the day and is longing for her relaxing bedroom.
So whether you are looking for new bedroom furniture or not, I invite you to check out the Calm Bedrooms microsite. It is entertaining once you passed the alarm clock section. For my non technical readers, the alarm clock may seem long but the time is necessary to upload the flash animation.
Categories:
HOME decor
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Tuesday, February 12, 2008 12:09 AM | Feedback (1)
If you are still looking for inspiration to compose your mini menu on Valentine’s Day, I spotted some pretty romantic recipes on Tastespotting.
Start or end the day with a Hot Chocolate
If you are in New York City this February, schedule a stop at for their famous Hot Chocolate Festival. I wrote it down on my itinerary. Daily flavors are offered on top of the regular blend.
Today, it’s Darkest Dark Hot Chocolate. On the 14th, it’s the Love Potion Hot Chocolate. While a Caramel Hot Chocolate and Chili Pepper Hot Chocolate will be served on February 16th and the 17th respectively. The City Bakery sells its hot chocolates in a shot size at $2 but you can savor a full-sized cup for $4.50. Add 50 cents for a marshmallow.
Otherwise, make your own hot chocolate by melting small pieces of fine chocolate (the darker the better for me) in warmed milk, then sugar and add a dash of vanilla and a cayenne pepper. You can try the Hot Hot Cocoa recipe by Michael Smith.
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
HOLIDAY
TRENDS
CAKES
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Monday, February 11, 2008 9:38 PM | Feedback (0)
Like everything else, the cake industry has evolved a lot over the years. The popularity of the TV series Ace of Cakes gives more ideas to people.
If you want a one-of-a-kind marvelous cake, first of all know that it is pricey because it requires a lot of time and know-how to decorate these remarkable cakes.
These cakes are popular at weddings, since people often allocate a huge budget for their wedding cake. If you plan an extraordinary party for a milestone birthday, a 25th wedding anniversary, a baptism or a shower, you cannot pretend to host the ultimate stylish event without a fabulous cake.
How does it work?
The process starts with a consultation and cake tasting, often complimentary. Be prepared before you set up a meeting. It is best to sit down with the cake maker after you booked your venue. Figure out the style of your event first as the cake must harmonize with the rest of your theme and decorative elements. You need to have a pretty good idea of how many guests will assist or be invited.
Categories:
KIDS party
BIG events
CAKES
ENTERTAINING
DINING
KIDS + BABY
posted @ Sunday, February 10, 2008 12:19 PM | Feedback (3)
The March 2008 issue of Canadian House & Home magazine is about clutter control. What I like about that issue is that it does not claim that it is the only way to live.
The decoration magazines are in part responsible for this trend because we all inspire to live in the beautiful styled rooms that we see in the magazines. If you entertain a lot, living in an uncluttered house definitely makes your life simpler since it cuts down the cleaning time.
What is the appeal?
There is something wonderfully charming about living well with less stuff. Even the garage looks chic when all the tools are beautiful displayed on painted green slatwall units. You have more time for yourself once it is done because you do not waste time searching for things. Let’s be frank, the average house is large enough that we do not have to let go of comfort and luxury.
Categories:
HOME decor
TRENDS
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Saturday, February 09, 2008 3:57 PM | Feedback (2)
Yesterday, my husband brought me to a sold-out concert. It was a classical orchestra playing scores from video games.
Hosted by Tommy Tallarico with Jack Wall as the conductor, Video Games Lives is a multimedia concert. We looked at excerpts of the game while the music was playing. What surprised me the most what that the assistance recognized instantly the music and they cheered when it was one their favorite games.
If you are not familiar with video games, many scores they played were from franchises. A video game franchise is a series of game around a character. You got Mario Brothers, The Legend of Zelda, Warcraft, Final Fantasy. Some franchises started twenty years ago and they include 10-12 games each.
From my point of view, you need to be hardcore gamers to know the music. I recognized none, except for the beginning of Halo because it sounds like Tibet monks and my husband plays that game very often.
Categories:
DINING out
OFF topics
DINING
posted @ Saturday, February 09, 2008 3:34 PM | Feedback (0)
As I was watching the finale of Design Interns on HGTV Canada, I felt the need to review some basic design principles with you. Design is a balancing act between form and function. Whether you are designing a home or planning an event, the same basic rules apply.
If you missed the second season of Design Interns, reruns will start February 12, 2008. I encourage you to listen to it because Cecconi Simone is a solid design firm from Toronto.
The winner becomes an intern at Cecconi Simone, so their design philosophy is highlighted through the challenges. What I like about the show is that it emphasis the need for functionality, using lasting materials and going through a thorough thinking process.
So my three design principles are:
Think macro
You must figure out the big pictures before you even think about the details. When you entertain, that means answering questions like:
- What time of event you wish to host? Cocktail, dinner, brunch, dance party
- What atmosphere? Intimate, glamorous, casual, formal
- Where do you want to host a party?
- What how many people do you want to attend?
- Do you cook, hire a chef who cooks on premises or book a caterer?
Categories:
EVERYDAY
HOME decor
ENTERTAINING
REVIEWS
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Friday, February 08, 2008 1:08 PM | Feedback (1)
Even more than red for me, chocolate is the most associate word to Valentine’s Day. That is how I got the idea to set up a brown tablescape. And I forced myself to find beautiful brown dinnerware.
Traditional look
I want to find something that is stylish and will make a statement. The traditional hand-painted Ludovica dinnerware is an exclusivity of Horchow. The style testifies the Italian charms. The beauty of the set is enhanced by the Italian pewter chargers.
The Bavaria model from the Italian brand MEPRA is a classic flatware with just the right amount of decorative elements. If you prefer something a little bit more ornate, the Medici Flatware displayed on the Ludovica saucer looks amazing. The cylindrical, beautifully detailed pewter handles make a statement.
Contemporary look
Since I selected recipes by David Rocca, a more hip dinnerware set seems right. The Cocoa Blossom by Mikasa has all the qualities I was looking for. The color scheme appeals to men. The lush blooms feel young yet refined. And I like the variations in the patterns between the various plates, bowls and serve ware.
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
FOOD + drinks
HOLIDAY
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Thursday, February 07, 2008 8:44 PM | Feedback (0)
February 7, 2008 marks the start of the Year of the Rat. It is also the beginning of the Chinese New Year celebrations.
If you have nothing planned for tonight, there is still plenty of time to improvise with the quick entertaining guide I wrote for the Web site of Food Network Canada.
About the decor
I illustrated some of the key elements of the party so you know what to look for to design your décor. I took the picture of the red lanterns while I was visiting Las Vegas two weeks ago. There are the kind of lanterns you should look for.
If you live in a town with a Chinatown neighborhood, you will have no problems finding the red lanterns, a trio of spring couplets or the red envelops for the pocket money. Wrap your party favors in red packet or small bags.
Categories:
IN the press
PARTY ideas
HOLIDAY
ENTERTAINING
REVIEWS
posted @ Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:35 PM | Feedback (0)
If you wish to escape seasonal hearts and the red rose overloaded displays, I devised a solution to celebrate Valentine’s Day in style. You can celebrate Valentine’s Day without taking the predictive road.
What I did is to go back to the root of this festive day which is celebrating love. And I asked myself: How do you celebrate Valentine’s Day if you are in a long term relationship? I have been married for thirteen years. So my husband and I do not celebrate Valentine’s Day like we did in our first year of romance.
Be a part of your love story
I believe that sharing happy memories brings strength to a couple. Therefore, I composed a scheme around reminiscences. Looking back at old photos bring back wonderful memories. I suggest that you challenge your partner to find the top 20 photographs of happiness together.
At the beginning of the night, hang your selected photos up on the footfalls multi designed by Umbra. After eating a wonderful home cooked dinner, look at the photographs and relive these wonderful moments. I am sure it will spark things up.
Categories:
PARTY ideas
HOLIDAY
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Thursday, February 07, 2008 12:24 AM | Feedback (1)
If you follow me, you probably noticed that I am a fan of the Lekker store. For the ones that do not know this store, it is an indie store with a single location. Their reputation is due to their unique inventory.
The owner is a Natalie van Dijk Carpenter, a woman born in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. She currently lives in Boston. Nathalie often traveled across Europe to bring to America amazing design products. Nathalie imports home décor accessories, tableware and furniture that otherwise would never be available in the United States. Innovative USA brands find some shelf space at Lekker like my new fave, Modern Twist from California.
Staying in a hotel that was only 10 minutes by foot from Lekker, I could not miss the opportunity to check the store.
Dinnerware for entertaining
Although Lekker does not carry formal dinnerware set per se, you still find several options for when you are having friends over. Let me assured you that the dinnerware collections are as interesting in person as online. I adored the comfortable, modern and stylish shape of Elixyr Collection by Kahla.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
TABLESCAPE
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Wednesday, February 06, 2008 12:22 AM | Feedback (1)
I am sure several of you are a fan of Beatrice Peltre, the extraordinary food stylist behind the popular La Tartine Gourmande. Many of you will envy me since I got the chance to eat brunch with Bea while I was in Boston.
She chose Upstairs on the Square, an exciting restaurant in Cambridge. The type of restaurants that only the locals know about. The front door is on a tiny pedestrian street called Winthrop.
Unusual decor, delicious food
The décor is out of this world. It is not my cup of tea but at least the decor has the advantage of being stimulating for the customers. The ambiance and the menu bring you back.
We had a little performance by a singing chorale from Harvard. Unfortunately, I do not recall the name of the group. On the video, you can have a look at what the restaurant look like. You can also see our friendly waiter.
Categories:
DINING out
TRAVEL
DINING
posted @ Tuesday, February 05, 2008 10:35 PM | Feedback (1)
Experiencing the Fairmont Gold floor was on my priority list for my trip to Boston last week-end. Fairmont Gold is a hotel within a hotel.
Guests at the Fairmont Gold located on the fourth floor of the Fairmont Copley Plaza enjoy unique quarters with the look and feel of a 1912 mansion house from the Back Bays area.
Stylish accommodations for the discerning travelers
This distinctively British style hotel caters 59 rooms. The rooms on the Gold Floor are more luxurious. The gold chandelier on a dimmer and the floor-to-ceiling marble bathroom announce lavish room amenities. Everything is thought to make your stay more comfortable. They do not just provide the robes; a pair of slippers is waiting for you nicely wrapped in a basket.
The moment you arrive at the dedicated check-in / check-out desk, you feel the superior service. Guests enjoy a private lounge equipped with board games, a library and their own reception area. The package includes a delicious complimentary deluxe continental breakfast with a daily hot entrée. I cherished most the relaxing moments provided by the evening hors d'oeuvres at the lounge. All day, guests have access to complimentary beverages and an honor bar. You pay extra to book a Fairmont Gold room at the Club floor but you will get a lot more in return.
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
TRAVEL
DINING
posted @ Tuesday, February 05, 2008 7:04 PM | Feedback (0)
Ready 2 spark, Bargainista and Creativadoration tagged me. The first blog tagged me around Christmas. Obviously, I have been postponing my answers. Since it is my third instance at this friendly game, I was wondering what I can tell you about me. My 7 unique facts are:
- I do not read many books a year because it takes me ages to find the time to read it all. Wish me good luck since I started the Harry Potter series a while ago. I am currently reading the fourth book.
- I do not like sitting in an aisle seat because people can bump into you
- I studied at an English-speaking University for my bachelor degree so I can learn English. My head hurt so much after the first hour.
- I studied actuarial mathematics but the career counselor suggested I become a TV producer.
- I once babysitted my little brother and he locked me in a room.
- I get travel sickness when sitting in the backseat of a car.
- My love for modern architecture started when I was 8 or 10. Do not ask me where it came from. I suspect it came from watching TV or traveling to California.
Categories:
OFF topics
posted @ Tuesday, February 05, 2008 1:44 AM | Feedback (1)
I learned that the multidisciplinary design studio Ontwerpwerk created a new line of kitchenware for the Jamie Oliver brand.
This is a black and white collection made of melamine, synthetic resin, bamboo or polyethylene. And they delivered some innovations.
It is more hygienic to use different surface to cut meal and vegetables. Ontwerpwerk thought about that fact when they design two easily identifiable surfaces for the cutting board. Cut your vegetables on the white side and cut the meat on the black side. A two in one, I love that!
Unfortunately, I cannot find an English-version of the Ontwerpwerk Web site. But I read on David Report blog that:
The line consists of bowls in different sizes, a colander, storage boxes, sealable measuring cups, cutting boards, a salt and pepper mill, knives and a knife set.
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
DINING
posted @ Sunday, February 03, 2008 10:09 AM | Feedback (2)
To stand from the crowd this Sunday, serve an upscale version of the football meal.
As I told you yesterday with my coverage of Design Hole’s book club dinner, you will have more fun if you select a menu that you can prepare in advance. This is crucial if you are a football fan.
Taste of the NFL is an amazing source for helping you to prepare your party. They asked chefs around the country to come up with new recipes for the big game. Each chef was inspired by their home team.
Here are my personal favorites:
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
DISHING tips
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Saturday, February 02, 2008 1:32 AM | Feedback (0)
My friend Jennifer of Design Hole is a member of a book club. When she told me she was hosting a dinner for the review of Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain, I told her I wanted to run the story.
In a matter of fact, we had dinner together at a French bistro when she visited Montreal last December. We spoke about what would be a suitable décor for her event. The key elements of any French Bistro decor are:
- A solid white plain table linen
- A chalkboard menu
- Casual atmosphere
- Rustic , traditional cooking.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Friday, February 01, 2008 2:12 AM | Feedback (3)