Bon Appetit:: Adorable DIY Place Tags

I'm falling in love with our rooftop more and more every weekend. And, I know it will be especially appealing over the next few weeks, as the summertime heat and humidity breaks and gorgeous fall weather begins to arrive.

Now, that we have our own place, I'm always keeping my eyes out for unique entertaining details. Recently, I happened across these adorable place tags and immediately fell in love. Be sure to download them HERE!

Lavender Lemonade

Hello, Monday. You're here so quickly, as most of my weekend was spent organizing closets and kitchen cabinets in our apartment. And while, to some extent, I find these chores somewhat therapeutic, it's shocking how long they take to complete, don't you all agree? So, as a little celebratory measure, I invited one of my closest friends over for a Sunday cocktail on the rooftop.

For a long time, I've wanted to attempt recipes with lavender. To me, it's such an elegant herb that seems to make every dish sound, and taste, very appealing.

Today was the perfect day... I decided to make not just any lemonade, but lavender lemonade. And, the result was divine.

{Lavender Lemonade}

I followed THIS recipe, and it couldn't have been easier. The only make-ahead step is preparing the lavender infused simple syrup. This adds the sweetness and floral essence to the lemonade. 

Lavender simple syrup can be used for a variety of other flavorings and serves as a nice hostess gift.

For the vibrant, purple color, be sure to add a drop each of red and blue food coloring. Otherwise, the syrup appears quite clear.

{Lavender Simple Syrup}

*Images via Sunday Suppers and Pease Pudding

Birthday Balloons

{this is glamorous}

On Saturday afternoon, as my Mom and I were browsing the quaint shops along Hudson Street in the West Village, we couldn't help but notice the most adorable little girl down the block. She was probably three years old and it was obviously her birthday! The clear indication was the gigantic bunch of balloons she was attempting to hold, all on her own. The proud dad was walking a few steps in front of his daughter, videotaping every step. It was such a precious moment, my Mom and I just had to watch.

Thinking about that little girl's excitement made me realize: it doesn't really matter your age, nor the occasion, colorful balloons seem to always make people smile. So, let's celebrate today. Here are a few inspiring photographs, complete with playful balloons and all!

{Tim Walker}

{Tim Walker}

{Martha Stewart Weddings}

{Pinterest}

{Le Divan Fumoir Bohemien}

{BHLDN}

For A Summertime Soiree

Memorial Day weekend is here and you know what that means: the official start of summer!

The Mr. and I couldn't be more excited for the warm weather because we finally have access to a rooftop.  Let's just say, we'll be doing our fair share of entertaining over the next few months... I can't wait!

When it comes to hosting a summer-time soiree, the simpler the better. But, that doesn't mean sacrificing style.

Here are a few festive details to make these impromptu get-togethers even more memorable.

Hot weather = Thirsty friends. Perfectly cubed ice will make your cocktails stand out from the rest. This is the only kind of ice used by trendy mixologists, for a reason.

And, nothing is cuter than serving beverages in mason jars with a fun straw!

Cheese plates are one of my favorite appetizers. Using flags to label the different varieties is a great way to inform guests of what their about to enjoy.

Always have dessert. My warm weather choice = Individual fruit pies. And surprise your guests with creative flatware... I love these plastic spoons from Anthropologie. Happy Summer!

Neon and Polka Dot Presents

As I've mentioned previously on the blog, probably several times, I absolutely LOVE all things paper. Let's be honest, don't we all agree that the prettiness of a package truly makes a present more memorable? Ahem, that's what I thought.


Homemade wrapping paper has recently become very trendy. And, this little number caught my eye because of it's pop-of-color and simplicity. The only supplies needed include:


Kraft Paper (Brown or white)
Stickers (Neon office dots are perfect, but any bright sticker will do)
Twine or Ribbon
Scissors
Tape
(Present... Obviously!)


Another fun variation on this DIY is decorating with colourful Washi tape. 

Simply use different lengths and patterns to decorate your gift box. And, be sure to tie with a brightly coloured ribbon or natural twine. 


*Image via Project Wedding

Dinner Party Simplicity:: Mustard Roasted Fish

Last weekend, we hosted a dinner party and I was itching to try a new recipe. I had been eyeing Ina's Mustard Roasted Fish for a long time, but for some reason had never tried making it.

Since our gathering was the evening of "Spring Ahead" and we were experiencing unseasonably warm weather, I felt it would be the perfect main course for the occasion. Paired with steamed asparagus and herbed cous cous, obviously I couldn't go wrong.

What I liked most about this recipe (and to be honest, the entire menu), was that it could be prepared in advance of guests arriving. There's nothing worse than not attending to your company because you're slaving away in the kitchen preparing dinner.

I planned dinner for 7:30PM that evening. Ten minutes before that, I snuck away for the "oh so very last minute" preparations. I simply put the fish in oven for 8 minutes, ccooked the asparagus for 4 minutes, and heated my cous cous (which I had made beforehand).

The fish turned out wonderfully. In fact, we didn't even have leftovers! And for dessert, we had stewed fresh berries with vanilla bean ice cream. Simple and delicious.

Everyone asked for the recipe when they left. Therefore, a worthwhile blog post! Enjoy!

L'amour Vrai:: Kristen and Philip

I'm thrilled to introduce you to Kristen and Philip! They were married on April 16, 2011, in Pittsburgh, Kristen's hometown.

Kristen and I met in New York through a mutual college friend. However, after her wedding, she and her husband relocated to Paris (amazing, I know)!

Their wedding pictures are stunning, so I hope you enjoy!

The wedding ceremony was held at Heinz Chapel at the University of Pittsburgh. The church dates back to the 1930s and houses the tallest stained glass windows in the United States.

Even with a few drops of rain, the bridal party looks fantastic! Coordinating umbrellas are the perfect accessory for this black tie affair.

The bride chose to wear an Amy Kuschel gown and a chapel length veil. Each bridesmaid chose her own black dress and gold shoes. Kristen loved how this added personality to the wedding day look!

The reception took place across the street from the church at the Carnegie Art Museum. 



When Kristen and Philip began planning their dream wedding, they had a clear vision of how it would come to live. Elegant, yet simple, with a vintage inspired theme throughout every detail. The groom, and groomsmen, even wore tuxedos with tails. A traditional choice of attire in England, where Philip is from.



I loved seeing Kristen and Philip's inspiration come to life! And, their first anniversary is quickly approaching, so the biggest congratulations to you both!

2012 Oscar Bingo

The 'Red Carpet' is only a few days away. And, if you're planning an Oscar's Party, I've got the perfect surprise for your guests: Oscar Bingo!

I mean, what's more fun than adding a little friendly competition to an award-filled night?

The templates were designed by this talented graphic designer. She's created 10 different bingo boards for this year's show. And, they all can be downloaded HERE.

There is even a cute Oscar's ballot to add to the fun. Find it HERE.

And the Oscar goes to... Good luck!

Chocolate Covered Potato Chips

It's finally the weekend... Happy Friday, lovelies!

I saw this sweet and savory recipe for fun take on cocktail party nibbles and I had to share. I think this may rival last week's White Chocolate Confetti Popcorn. I mean, isn't the combination of potato chips and chocolate at the heart of Momofuku Milk Bar's famous Compost Cookie? Ahem... Yes, it sure is! Enjoy and have a wonderfully relaxing long weekend!

Chocolate Covered Potato Chips

1½ cups chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, dark is your choice)
1 (15.25 ounce bag) bag ridge-cut potato chips

1. Place chocolate chips in a heat resistant bowl and place over a pot of simmering water. (Make sure the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the bowl)
2. Completely melt chocolate until smooth and begin dipping the chips, about ½ way.
3. Shake off any excess chocolate and place chips onto a baking sheet lined with wax paper.
4. Allow chocolate covered chips to dry completely before serving.
5. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

*Recipe and image via spoon fork bacon

White Chocolate Confetti Popcorn... For The Grammy's

Watching the Grammy Awards is one of my favorite TV nights of the year! Granted, I don't watch much TV,  but still. The red carpet, the dresses, the interviews, I'm obsessed! And, having worked with some of the artists makes it even more exciting... 'Yay, Taylor Swift'!

So, with that said, you know what I'll be doing tonight.

My husband and his father have been traveling all week on business, so this evening, my Mother-In-Law and I have planned a fun night filled with dinner downtown, followed by the Grammy's and a good bottle of wine.

For the later portion, I've decided to bring a festive dessert/snack for us to enjoy. It's actually a recipe I've been wanting to try for a while: White Chocolate Confetti Popcorn!

I originally saw this recipe on The Glitter Guide, but, have adjusted it a bit according to my taste. The result, sweet and salty, pretty deliciousness!

White Chocolate Confetti Popcorn
1 block white chocolate, 6-8oz., chopped
8-10 cups air popped popcorn (not buttered)
1/4 cup confetti sprinkles

Add about 1-inch of water to a double boiler (or a saucepan with a metal bowl nestled atop). Note: be sure your bowl is completely dry. Heat over medium-low, watching the chocolate the entire time. White chocolate has a lower melting point, so it can seize easily. When chocolate is melted, stir until smooth.

In a few batches, pour chocolate over popcorn, mixing gently to coat each kernel lightly.

Evenly spread popcorn onto a baking sheet and add confetti sprinkles. Let popcorn sit for 3-4 hours (or until dry). Beware, this is extremely addictive. Have a fun night!

Lauren and Steve:: Our Sea Island Wedding

Today, I'm thrilled to share some exquisite pictures from a friend's recent wedding in Sea Island, Georgia!

Lauren and Steve married on October 8, 2011, at The Cloister Hotel, a stunning resort located on a gorgeous, private coastline on Sea Island. What the couple loved most about this beautiful venue: The wonderful Southern charm.

Lauren and Steve met in college, years ago. I just love their story, but let's leave it to the bride to tell!

How we met...
It was on Miami of Ohio's campus in August of 2002. The weekend before classes began, I, a freshman, wandered into a party at Steve's fraternity. After a few minutes of chatting, he showed me a newspaper clipping of his highschool baseball glory days. I mispronounced his last name and we were immediate friends. 

A fun fact you might not know...
We ate lunch together every Wednesday in college.

How long it took us to finally start dating...
6 years.

Number of people who made bets that we were either secretly dating in college or would eventually date...
You tell us, we know you're out there!

The proposal...
March 12, 2010. Minneapolis, MN.

A new twist to our story...
Steve commuted to the wedding from Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, as he's been assigned there for a year by the Army. This made our nuptials EXTRA thrilling, since we hadn't seen eachother for months.

Lauren and Steve: October 8, 2011

Lauren and Steve exchanged their vows in a quaint chapel filled with their closest family and friends. Even more special, Lauren's Aunt presided over the union and infused the sermon with memorable stories of the couple's journey together. Lauren was a graceful and confident bride walking down the aisle. As the couple reflects back on their day, this was the most memorable moment.

Lauren wore a stunning Monique Lhuillier gown. The simplicity of the design was classic and sophisticated. Yet, the silver embellishments along the neckline added a touch of glamour for such a big day!

At the celebration, family and friends were greeted with a signature cocktail: The Bootleg. A drink with strong ties back to Minnesota, the bride's home state. Adorable stir flags were personalized for each guest, indicating the seating arrangement for dinner. This was one of my favorite details!

At the end of the night, Lauren and Steve snuck into The Cloister's vintage ice cream parlor for a few fun photos! I absolutely love retro-feel of this shot. It's such a playful contrast to the rest of the collection.

*Images via La Dolce Vita Studio. Highly recommended by Lauren and Steve!

Valentine's Day Vanilla Sugar

Cupcakes and frosted cut-out cookies suit any celebratory occasion and tend to always be the first treat I reach for on a dessert plate... Partially because they're so pretty! I especially love the ones with colored sugar sprinkled on top.

Today, I found a recipe for Vanilla Sugar and have already prepared some for my upcoming Valentine's Day baking! It's so easy to make and will be the perfect decorative, but delicious, addition to any pastry. I'm excited to experiment with different flavors too, like lavender, rose and orange.

This would also make a cute gift!

*Images via Somewhere Splendid

Superbowl 'Beer' Cocktails

Every year, I get really excited for the Superbowl! But, have to laugh at myself... Why? I don't like football. I rarely drink beer. And, can certainly go without the heaping plates of chicken wings, pigs in a blanket and many other greasy staples this event entails!

With that said, I'm still looking foward to the big game... And, the commercials! So, I've decided, this Sunday, I'm going to put a fancy spin on America's Superbowl drink of choice: Beer.

Check out these fun variations to add a little something extra to your game-day pint of ale!

The Redneck Mother

The Black Velvet

The Wheat & Mint

The Gringo

Wedding Wednesday:: DIY Calligraphy



{jones design company}

If I had to choose one wedding element that would never go out of style, I would have to say the art of beautifully written calligraphy. It's always a classic choice, but these days, can have a contemporary twist, making it even more romantic and whimsical.

I was thrilled to find this tutorial from Jones Design Company, on how to 'fake' this beautiful writing. So, let's give it a try! 

First, choose a good fine tip ink pen.

Now, write your letter. You can use pencil first, if you prefer.

To give your letter a "calligraphy feel", make the down-strokes thicker and filled-in, as if you were using an angled calligraphy pen.

Everytime your pen strokes go downward, draw a close line and fill it in.

There you have it! Here's another example of the word love written in cursive.

Then, fill in the downward pen strokes.

Simple, gorgeous, DIY calligraphy. Happy writing!

Images via Oh So Beautiful Paper