EVERYDAY
Tips and ticks of the trade to easily entertain with style
If you wish to make a statement, check out the exceptional wicker collection from Emu. It is nothing like you ever seen before.
The Yucca chairs were featured on an episode of Take It Outside where they were used as dining chairs. The high back means that adds lots of impact to a garden.
The chaise longue goes hip with the Alveo chaise. The semi-covered chaise spreads in a seat and a footrest. The shapes are pretty cool. The cover protects from sunrays and creates a cozy space that can be shared by two persons.
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EVERYDAY
HOME decor
OUTDOOR
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HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Wednesday, August 06, 2008 1:37 PM | Feedback (0)
Get inspired for casual summer entertaining with three different table linen looks.
I selected tablecloths from Simons, a retailer with stores in Quebec and Montreal. Simons sells women’s wear, men’s wear and home fashion at affordable prices. I often bought table and bed linens from their own brand.
Playing with Patterns
I cannot wait to throw a brunch with this setting. Everything starts with a china pattern. I am so glad that I selected the Chirp Dinnerware set because I can experiment with new tabletop styles.
I discovered that lots of accessories harmonize with the Asian feel of these teal and watercolor bird drawings. I did not expect that when I selected this pattern from the Simple Fine collection by Lenox. I chose this pattern because the drawings were cute and different from my own tableware. I wish to disclose that Lenox sent me a complimentary set last spring to get familiar with their line.
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EVERYDAY
TABLESCAPE
TABLEWARE
LINENS
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Monday, August 04, 2008 11:19 PM | Feedback (1)
I love all green salads except for the watery Iceberg lettuce. Watercress is at the top of my list.
Very Nutritious
I make a watercress salad at least once a week. I will keep doing it now that I know that watercress is deemed to be a super-food by dietary experts.
Watercress is a top source of vitamins C, B1, B6, K and E, iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese and zinc. Click here for a comparative nutritional analysis.
If you wish to add watercress to your diet, you can start with these super easy recipes.
Tea Sandwiches Recipes
I always want to host a tea party but never find the right time. In the meantime, I collect recipes and delightful tea leaves.
Nikki of Canarygirl proposes her Homemade Aioli and Baby Watercress Tea Sandwiches, a simpler version of the classic. Nikki elevates the sandwich by using an arabesque pattern breakfast china set.
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EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Thursday, July 24, 2008 5:17 PM | Feedback (3)
On Sunday, I talked about the upscale burgers prepared by French Chefs. We tried a recipe that same night. I referred to my version as my Parisian burgers on Twitter. Several Tweeple were curious.
Jerome and I relish the Parisian burgers. The burger reaches new height. We cannot wait to invite friends so they can appreciate their full flavor.
Last Winter
This is not our first excursion to a different burger experience. We savored the Father’s Office burgers in Santa Monica. We liked it but we were not overwhelmed by the flavor. Both recipes prove that mayonnaise, mustard or ketchup are not essential to make a delicious burger.
Our Interpretation of The Café Salle Pleyel Burger
This was a team effort. I dug the recipe, adjusted the ingredients to our taste and my husband Jerome cooked the meal. Be prepared to taste the ultimate burger. The burgers were cooked on the BBQ.
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EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
FAMILY style
ENTERTAINING
DINING
KIDS + BABY
posted @ Tuesday, July 22, 2008 11:15 AM | Feedback (3)
Look at the previous post as the Splurge and this one as the Steal. If you are looking for a cheap and safe alternative to regular candles, President’s Choice can come to the rescue.
The glow does not seem as impressible and realistic as the flameless candles by Candles Impressions. But if you are in the rush, you can buy those while doing your grocery.
None of these two brands produce something as cool as the Oxo Candela rechargeable lights. But if you need to light many tables, you will not bust your budget with the President’s Choice Flameless candlelight options.
>>> Sourcing:
Learn more: PC Flameless Tealights – price: $1.99 CAD
Learn more: PC Flameless Votives – price: $3.99 CAD
Learn more: PC Flameless Wax Pillar Candle – price: $9.99 CAD
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TABLESCAPE
PARTY supplies
BIG events
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Monday, July 21, 2008 5:33 PM | Feedback (3)
This is old news but I dug it today. So I thought of sharing it with you in case you missed that announcement. When exploring the Oxo’s catalogue, I noticed the candela lights designed by Vessel marked as an Oxo product.
Curious, I investigated the matter until I discovered that Oxo acquired the intellectual property to the rechargeable lighting products from Vessel in 2007. I think that since that acquisition, the price of the candela packs may be slightly lower than they used to be.
There were production and battery problems when Vessel was producing it. As a housewares company used to deal with manufacturing issues, Oxo was better equipped to solve the problem efficiently. Vessel still collaborates with Oxo on future design.
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EVERYDAY
HOME decor
OUTDOOR
ALL occasions
ENTERTAINING
GIFT IDEAS
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Monday, July 21, 2008 4:45 PM | Feedback (0)
Serving burgers is so common that the stylish hostess is always on the lookout to elevate the basic recipe. Using a better cheese or changing the condiments is one way to go. Now the French Chefs are playing with the burger recipes.
Eating Habits
I still see many European who immigrated in Canada eating their hot sandwich or their burger with utensils. It feels strange. I must confess that I eat warm submarines with my knife and fork at home because it is less messy. But burgers and French fries are finger food. For their comfort, I provide two large napkins to every guest when we serve hamburgers.
Burgers are Turning Chic on the New York Times
This is why I enjoyed reading an article from the New York Times. It explains how the French Chefs are reinventing this American dish. My husband is cooking our version of the Café Salle Pleyel Burger tonight. I will talk about it if we like it. But I can tell you that it smells good in the house.
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EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
DISHING tips
TRENDS
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Sunday, July 20, 2008 10:25 PM | Feedback (1)
I am going to a BBQ this afternoon. I was invited a few weeks ago and I forgot this is a housewarming party.
As I woke up, I realized that I need a card and a gift. This happens to all of us. Luckily, I found a congratulation card that matches the personality of my friend in my stash. My husband will walk to a local merchant to buy the perfect item for our friend – I told him what to get.
This is why I like the concept behind the Fresh Style Card File collection by Cecily Ink. The set is organized by category:
- 4 birthday cards
- 4 thank-you cards
- 4 sentiments: sorry, get well, with love, miss you
I think the multiple-occasion card boxes is a market that is under utilized in the stationery business. With so many unforeseen events we have to attend, having cards on hand save us time.
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EVERYDAY
PAPER goods
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Saturday, July 19, 2008 1:09 PM | Feedback (0)
Kits saved us a lot of time; something that we all welcome. But I am picky when it comes to using kits for my tablescape or my party decor.
The Dos and Don'ts of Using Kits
The main reason to be careful when using kits is that kits can lack sophistication by being too repetitive. As a rule of thumb, I stay always of the exact same image printed on everything that comes in the kit.
Over the last couple of years, many innovative graphic design brands started their own fine stationery shop. These small graphic studios brought a different aesthetic to the paper goods market. As a result, we can find wonderful kit options at a reasonable price. The key remains to know where to look for fabulous kits.
This is why I am thrilled by Places, Everyone, the latest addition from Cecily Ink. Founder Alex Wijnen of Cecily Ink designed a cool paper table settings collection.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
TABLESCAPE
PAPER goods
PARTY supplies
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Saturday, July 19, 2008 12:46 PM | Feedback (0)
Food covers are a necessity in certain regions. Unfortunately, they often lack style. This is not the case of these gorgeous bamboo food covers.
Available in three colors from the UK retailer Graham and Green, you can harmonize the bamboo food covers with a set of 3 baskets.
Like you can see on the left picture, the look feels more sophisticated if you mix colors. Repeat some key elements and have fun creating your tabletop.
>>> Sourcing:
Buy online: Summer Bamboo Food Cover at Graham and Green – price: £10.95
Buy online: Summer Bamboo Baskets at Graham and Green – price: £12.95 for the set of 3
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EVERYDAY
OUTDOOR
TABLEWARE
ENTERTAINING
DINING
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Thursday, July 17, 2008 2:15 AM | Feedback (0)
I was reading an issue of the French magazine Elle à Table at lunch. As I turned the pages, I noticed something particular about the food ads.
They have a warming message like we see for alcohol. Except that the message written in large font at the bottom of each food ad promotes good eating habits.
Processed Food Advertising in France
To feed my curiosity, I visited mangerbouger.fr to get the facts. All processed food products and drinks with added sugar, sweetener or salt are subject to this law. The law became in effect February 28, 2007.
I think that Canada and the United States should do the same. Everyone can benefit by following these 4 simple rules:
- Avoid food that is too fatty, too salty or too sweet
- Eat daily 5 portions of fruits and vegetables
- Refrain snacks between meals
- Exercise regularly.
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EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
TRENDS
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Wednesday, July 16, 2008 4:49 PM | Feedback (1)
When we went to San Francisco last winter, we rented a Prius. It is a fun car to drive. We stayed at Hotel Vitale and two Fairmont hotels. My husband and I truly appreciated the fact that Fairmont gave us free valet parking because we drove a hybrid car.
Unfortunately, Fairmont green generosities extend only to California. I find the hip Hotel Vitale with its relaxing and good for the soul experience is missing the boat by not having a similar policy. This is the only area where I give a failing grade to Hotel Vitale.
Opus Hotels in Vancouver and Montreal
As a Canadian, I am proud to announce that the Canadian boutique hotel chain Opus Hotels started to offer free valet parking to anyone who shows up in a hybrid car. Opus Hotels has a blog where they tell how what measures they are taking right now to lesser the impact of environment.
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EVERYDAY
TRAVEL
TRENDS
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Tuesday, July 15, 2008 11:35 AM | Feedback (0)
Buying the candles for the birthday cake is the last thing I typically do when I host a party. This means that I settled too many times for the usual tricolor 24-candle package. I would feel less rush if I stock in advance.
With these 5 candles from 3 brands, you will be ready the next time you celebrate the birthday of a loved one.
Fred
The first two comes from the whimsical Fred brand. The Birthday Candelabra is available in pink or white. I want it next year on my cake.
I finished a couple weeks ago watching Rome series on DVD. Therefore I feel an attachment to the Roman candles.
Worldwide Co.
Continuing with humor, Worldwide Co. proposes 10 Who's Counting? models for or age sensitive friends or just for some Birthday fun. You can let the cake speak and say Lost Count, Don’t Ask, 21 again, 29 again, Thirty-ish, Forty-ish, Young at Heart, You’re Old. The traditional I Love You and Happy Birthday complete this collection. The Who's Counting? Candles collection won the Gift of the Year award in 2007.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
PARTY supplies
CAKES
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Tuesday, July 15, 2008 1:48 AM | Feedback (1)
I wish to share a little bit of my love for modern architecture houses today. This house is incredible on paper with two kitchens, a game room and 4 bedrooms.
Unfortunately, the interior pictures are sparse on the real estate site.
This house is beautiful without a doubt. It is easy to imagine the potential of this $1,975,000 AUD house. The total experience would be to see this house with some furniture.
Home Staging
It shows why home staging a house is important to get the best price. If you try to sell your home, make the most of every viewing by putting attention to lifestyle details.
Buyers want to look at more than empty rooms these days. Not every potential buyer is an interior designer or has developed the capability to see what a room will look like with furniture in it.
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EVERYDAY
HOME decor
ENTERTAINING
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Monday, July 14, 2008 10:21 AM | Feedback (0)
I received my copy at the beginning of the week. I think Whitewater Cooks is a wonderful cookbook.
It is unusual to crave for the food at a ski resort cafeteria. But Fresh Tracks Café is not your typical ski resort cafeteria. Before acquiring Whitewater Winter Resort with her husband Mike in 1997, Shelley Adams spent 15 years as a popular caterer to the west coast film industry.
Shelley Adams finally gave in to the incessant requests of patrons who wanted her kept-secret recipes. In Whitewater Cooks, Shelley shares 80 gourmet recipes that she cooked over her career at Fresh Tracks Café and also as a caterer.
Whitewater Cooks is divided in 5 recipe sections: soups and bowls, salads and greens, savouries, salsas, chutneys and sauces, and finally sweet things.
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FOOD + drinks
ALL occasions
ENTERTAINING
DINING
GIFT IDEAS
REVIEWS
posted @ Saturday, July 05, 2008 8:00 PM | Feedback (0)
I am not a fan of magnets on the fridge unless they are really special. On that point, the Dorogaya magnetic calendar clearly qualifies.
This is a great improvement over the typical paper calendar that you see on so many kitchens. Better yet, you will feel great opening the fridge door if you hang a reusable calendar.
The magnetic calendar can have a prominent space on the central message board of any household. You can place one in your home office.
How it works?
Every month is represented by a 3-letter abbreviation chip. Special chips, like Deadline, Arrival, Departure, Drink Day and Don't Drink Day, keep track of important dates and appointments. It seems that the Ukrainian graphic artist Serhiy Chebotaryov created his Dorogaya magnetic calendar with students in mind.
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EVERYDAY
HOME decor
ALL occasions
ENTERTAINING
GIFT IDEAS
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Friday, June 27, 2008 1:54 PM | Feedback (0)
Last week, I went to the 40th birthday party of a friend. P. was the DJ for the night. He played tunes that were significant to the several epochs of his life. Although these vintage illustrations are way before his time, these drawings inspire me.
All the cards designed by Kai of Kootie’s Closet are available on etsy as personalized note cards, hello cards or thank you cards.
Living in Florida, Kai works as a graphic designer specializing in mid-century & modern illustrations, vintage inspired patterns and vintage graphics restoration
Her gift tags would complement well a kitsch party theme. Use them for your party favors.
The 50s bicycle is adorable. I really like the details of the drawing. Why not organize a ride in the country with your friends this weekend?
Categories:
EVERYDAY
PAPER goods
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Friday, June 27, 2008 10:06 AM | Feedback (0)
You will use these 4 items over and over this summer. They will add style, function and a punch of color to your outdoor parties.
Jewel Flatware
I really like the four colors of the square enamels mixed together. Placing the four colors creates a more festive table than using a single hue. The magical number is to own 12 or 16 settings. So, it fits to buy a flatware set in each color.
Hot Buffet Station
If you already built an outdoor kitchen, the next thing is to set up a hot buffet station in your backyard. The brushed stainless steel BroilKing Buffet Servers come handy if you entertain a lot. The base can be used as stand-alone warming tray. Bring the set inside for an all-year long usage.
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EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
PARTY supplies
DISHING tips
TABLEWARE
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Wednesday, June 25, 2008 12:48 PM | Feedback (0)
Like many women bloggers, I carry a small camera on my night handbag.
The Facts
You need at least a better than average small point-and-shoot camera to take decent pictures. The only purpose of the phone camera is to send a picture to Facebook right away or to photograph people for your address book.
My smaller camera was outdated. Last year, I bought a small digital movie camera, the Sanyo CG6 to make videos. I thought I could use my small movie camera to take pictures but it produces washed off pictures. It is fair to say that I was due for a new sleek and thin digital camera.
How To Select The Right Point-and-Shoot Digital Camera?
I did some researches on the Internet and talked to people about my needs.Have a clear idea of what, when and where you expect to photograph. Taking pictures of food at a restaurant plus being able to photograph people at events summarize my needs.
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ALL occasions
OFF topics
ENTERTAINING
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Tuesday, June 24, 2008 1:42 PM | Feedback (1)
When I entertain at home, I prefer to cook easy to make but tasty recipes. The hostess should plan her event so she can enjoy the presence of her guests. This is why I like the latest book by Gordon Ramsay.
Entertaining Philosophy
A quote from Gordon Ramsay's Fast Food says it all:
"However amazing a dish looks, it is always the taste that lingers in your memory."
The stylish hostess makes an effort on food presentation. But we must accept that we are not Chefs either. My priority for easy entertaining is to design a stunning tabletop, cook a delicious meal and after, try to plate the food more beautifully.
About The Book
I do not really follow Gordon Ramsay on TV. I bought Fast Food because his cookbook provides tasty recipes built around menus and types of food plus some essential cooking tips.
You get recipes for fast soups, appetizers, antipasti, salads, sandwiches, eggs, working lunches, pasta, shellfish, fish, meat, vegetarian, side dishes, fruity desserts and creamy desserts.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
HOSTESS gifts
ENTERTAINING
DINING
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Sunday, June 22, 2008 2:48 PM | Feedback (1)
Products from Fruits and Passion always make an appreciated hostess or birthday gift. So take this chance to save up to 40% on selected products during the Summer sale.
I am a fan of their Cucina line. I used the Cucina Dish Detergent to clean my kitchen sinks. I want to try the Cucina Countertop Cleaner next. All my girlfriends love the Cucina Purifying Hand Wash with Olive Oil. So this is a sure bet.
Anything from the Art Home collection would be great for a housewarming party.
In stores, you will receive a cute free handbag with every purchase of $45 and more. The Summer Sale occurs until July 21 or while quantities last online or in stores across Canada and United States.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
ALL occasions
HOSTESS gifts
ENTERTAINING
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Thursday, June 19, 2008 11:48 AM | Feedback (1)
If you or your children participate in a sport team, a party is certainly taken place at the end of the season. Or you may organize an alumni meeting this summer.
You typically want something special yet affordable. Get inspired by these adorable event design ideas.
Photo Display
The photos hanging by clothes pins on a twine is a concept that can be applied to so many events in so many ways.
From a graduation party, an engagement party, to a first year wedding anniversary or the first birthday of your baby, displaying photos creates a connection. Your guests feel more inclined to share memories.
For a baby shower, create a family tree line. The center will be filled by a few photos of the pregnancy and the happy couple.
Drinkware
Serving food and cocktails in mason jars is favored by cool bars, bistro restaurants and caterers. The details of this real wedding designed by Rebecca Stone of Duet Weddings are featured on Style Me Pretty.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
PARTY ideas
BABY showers
DISHING tips
BIG events
ENTERTAINING
DINING
KIDS + BABY
posted @ Thursday, June 19, 2008 12:23 AM | Feedback (2)
I planned to discuss something else until I got a Facebook wall message by Janick of Creativadoration. Amongst other things, Janick informed me that she posted something this morning that I will probably like. Janick was right.
These napkins are lovely. The pictures by Jennifer Causey make these table textiles even more desirable. It was the perfect way to wake up.
The Secret Behind Plait Textiles
With savory names like Chocolate Wasabi, Cherry Clafoutis, Salted Raisins and Salted Caramel, Plait Textiles stimulates our appetite.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
LINENS
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Tuesday, June 10, 2008 1:43 PM | Feedback (2)
As promised Saturday, I composed a few simple buffet table centerpieces using lilac flowers as the backdrop.
These bouquets are really easy to do since they only involved cutting flowers at the right height and gather them nicely. But before you select the height, you must have a plan in your mind and determine the position of every flower.
The Concept
Lilac trees produce classical flowers. These flower arrangements would be perfect for an English tea party. My tree produces the paler shade. I stopped by the florist yesterday to pick up a few flowers to add contrasts in colors and textures.
I tried to modernize the look of an old-fashioned flower. To achieve my goal I bought three fuchsia gerberas, three green Anastasia chrysanthemums and another flower that I forgot the name.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
TABLESCAPE
PARTY supplies
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Thursday, June 05, 2008 12:28 AM | Feedback (0)
Watch this video where New York event planner and designer David Stark creates cute flower arrangements from flowers available at the Deli shops.
Look at how David Stark gave style to ordinary carnations, daisies, gerberas and roses.
Another Concept
For the same challenge, artist and landscape designer Paula Hayes arranges lilacs and alliums on a vase she designed. Even though these two flowers are part of my favorites, I did not like what she did with it.
Look in your own backyard
Our lilac tree is in bloom right now. Lilac smells so good. I will find the time tomorrow to show you my own arrangements. Hopefully, I can create something that I will be proud of.
New York magazine converted everyday objects as flower vessels. This is another way to easy give a punch to a simple bouquet. Check out the post on Apartment Therapy NYC for more ideas.
>>> Sourcing:
Via: PlantTherapy: The Everything Guide to Flowers [Apartment Therapy NYC]
Categories:
EVERYDAY
TABLESCAPE
PARTY supplies
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Saturday, May 31, 2008 7:33 PM | Feedback (1)
While browsing on Tastespotting this morning, I spotted this adorable truck cake. I am even more impressed since this lorry cake is made by a Northern Irish foodie named Sarah. Her cakes stand out by the attention to details.
I explored her blog to know more. Stuff Yer Bake is not only about cakes. She also publishes recipes of meal she cooked on an everyday basis.
Sarah baked and decorated these cakes at the request of co-workers. I feel sad she lived on the other side of the Atlantic. Do you know any non-professional in Montreal (or elsewhere) who is as talented?
>>> Sourcing:
Learn more: Cakes Galores [Stuff Yer Bake]
Learn more:Pirate Birthday [Stuff Yer Bake]
Recipe:Crab Ravioli [Stuff Yer Bake]
Categories:
EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
KIDS party
ENTERTAINING
DINING
KIDS + BABY
posted @ Wednesday, May 28, 2008 10:12 AM | Feedback (1)
I was looking for unique gift ideas when I spotted three amazing kitchen tools at Generate. It is worth noting that this US retailer ships to Canada and the United States for free.
Serving ware by Zoocreative
First, Zoocreative reinvented the eating tray by converting two of its corners into armrests. Your arms rest comfortably on the grooves of the Delica Table tray to deliver a more enjoyable dining experience.
A table tray, a coffee tray and a small tray compose the line. The Delica Tray series won several awards including the prestigious Reddot design award 2007.
The Ameba Collection consists of a set of coasters, plate chargers and placemats. The plate chargers can be used as a trivet set. These would look great on a buffet table.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
KITCHEN tools
ALL occasions
TABLEWARE
ENTERTAINING
DINING
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Wednesday, May 28, 2008 2:03 AM | Feedback (0)
I love cookbooks. It seems I never have enough. With so many books, which one to choose.
Save time and start with the 2008 finalists of the James Beard Foundation Cookbook Awards? After all, they examined the latest publications for us.
James Beard Foundation Cookbook Awards is said to be the highest honors for food and beverage professionals working in America. The awards reward excellence in 13 book categories.
I am showing you four books from the Entertaining category. These inexpensive books will each be appreciated as an hostess gift.
Canadian Nominee
A Canadian is nominated this year in the Entertaining cookbook category. I introduced Dish Entertains last year.
The author of Dish Entertains is Trish Magwood, the owner of dish cooking studio located in Toronto. Trish is completing against two cookbooks:
Categories:
EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
HOLIDAY
FAMILY style
HOSTESS gifts
ENTERTAINING
DINING
KIDS + BABY
GIFT IDEAS
REVIEWS
posted @ Tuesday, May 27, 2008 12:44 PM | Feedback (0)
I started over my post series that highlighted great posts from my blogroll. I named this collection of fabulous posts Fabupost.
Dressing up Tartlets and Sandwiches
The honor goes to La Tartine Gourmande with her post about a Celeriac and Long Pepper Tartlet and a picnic with the man of her life on this Memorial Day. Her pictures and writing inspire me to try making adorable tartlets like hers.
And look at how fantastic is her sandwich presentation. If you are a good cook or if you are or pressed by time, you should not be afraid to serve sandwiches to your guests. Simply invite your guests for lunch instead of dinner. Put attention to details and you will be able to impress your guests with any food.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
OUTDOOR
ALL occasions
ENTERTAINING
DINING
GIFT IDEAS
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Monday, May 26, 2008 6:14 PM | Feedback (0)
Father's Day is the third Sunday from now (June 15th, 2008). I will give you a head start with these tasteful and practical gift ideas for your dad.
Picnic Drinkware
The red and aqua outdoor tumblers, hi-ball glasses, wine glasses and jugs by John Lewis remind me of the hip nautical palette I showed you two weeks ago. I enjoy these gender-neutral festive hues for summer.
Picnic Blankets / Rugs
For lunches on the grass or free summer concerts in the park, a picnic rug comes handy.
I have never seen picnic blankets as fashionable as the John Lewis Ascot Picnic Rug. Very British style!
But dads may prefer the more masculine brown or navy John Lewis Picnic Rug in a Bag. The look is also more casual.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
OUTDOOR
ALL occasions
TABLEWARE
ENTERTAINING
DINING
GIFT IDEAS
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Monday, May 26, 2008 11:57 AM | Feedback (0)
We do not have always to look at the latest things to find cool ideas.
A flashback to summer 2006 from Living etc teaches us a thing or two about outdoor party decorations. These are great ideas for your upcoming family events all summer long.
Eco-friendly Way to Keep the Insects Away
Living etc suggests we hang a clear plastic bag filled with water on top of your outdoor dining table to keep the insects away. I will try this trick to see if it works. Hang want the little kids to ask questions, use a fishing line for the invisible effect.
Decorating Ideas for an Outdoor Kid Party
- Set up several areas with toys. Prioritize games for all ages.
- A single element may be all you need to create a statement. Colorful cushions under a distinctive parasol, large dominos next to fun chairs took a few minutes to set up.
- The dressing-up tent can be used to make a play or a fashion show.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
PARTY ideas
OUTDOOR
KIDS party
FAMILY style
ENTERTAINING
KIDS + BABY
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Sunday, May 25, 2008 1:06 PM | Feedback (0)
The most important thing after you bought cut flowers is to put them in an appropriate vase. With a few guidelines, finding the right fit is not complicated.
When you buy flowers for yourself, you have the time to try several vases or to buy the types of flowers that fit well into your vases. That is the time to experiment.
For some, problems arise when they receive flowers. When you are hosting a party, you do not have the time to try several vases. The same is true when making a casual centerpiece for an impromptu dinner.
If you start from scratch, get at least these three types of vases:
- a 4-inch neck square or round vase - ideal height 9 to 11 inches
- a bud vase for single bloom - I prefer a narrow 4 to 6 inches tall vase
- a heavy base, thick wall vase with a wider neck, 10 to 12 inches tall.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
HOME decor
ALL occasions
ENTERTAINING
GIFT IDEAS
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Wednesday, May 21, 2008 1:21 AM | Feedback (2)
If you are looking for personalized note cards, check out the latest collection of bold drawings at Fabulous Stationery.
Bags and Shoes
With a production time of 5 to 7 days, it is too late to order your custom Sex and the City invites from the new shoes and bags collection. Still, keep these note cards in mind for a bridal shower, a girl makeover party or a bridal party.
A bride to be can order a custom set for each of her bridesmaids. Simply select the illustration that fits the best the bridesmaid’s personality.
Moving Announcements
There are several options to choose from a mid-century house to reference to condo living and home decor accessories. You do not need to live in a Palm Springs modern house to order those as long as you want to say "Come to see my new hip place", these designs are OK.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
PAPER goods
ALL occasions
ENTERTAINING
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Tuesday, May 20, 2008 2:19 PM | Feedback (0)
Finished up your invite or add a special touch to a thank you card with your own customized stamps. They are also appropriate to mark a special occasion, a kid birthday or something special happening in your life.
Where to buy?
The personalization process is the same whether you live in the USA or Canada. The difference is where you buy them. In Canada, you must use Picture Postage, a service from Canada Post in partnership with Canadian Bank Note.
In the United States, several companies own a vendor license from United States Postal Service to print customized postage. You can buy the stamps in the denomination that you need: postcard, envelop size and weight. Unfortunately, Canada Post offers only the customized stamp for the most current postage (standard letter under 30 grams).
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posted @ Thursday, May 15, 2008 11:16 PM | Feedback (2)