PARTY ideas
a source of inspiration through mood boards, activities and party themes
Perhaps you remember a TV show that's become a bit of a cult classic. The Joy of Oil Painting was a How-To show hosted by hippy-dippy artist, Bob Ross.
On each half-hour episode he'd complete an oil painting – usually a landscape with lots of "happy trees". He made it looks so easy! Suddenly I had a great idea for a party.
Tag Team Painting with Bob
Why not host a painting party? Fine art is so refined, right? Not in this case, because in order for this party to be truly fun, alcohol is a must. Best of all, no artistic talent is needed. I call this party Tag Team Painting With Bob (Drinks on the Side).
Basically, your guests are divided into groups of two or more. The show begins and painter number one paints along with Bob. After five minutes, the next person takes over while the first imbibes. And around they go until the show is over.
The team with the best painting is declared Master Pieces and wins a prize. Caution: your guests will want to paint another one, so have supplies ready.
Party Preparations
First, rent or buy a copy of The Joy of Oil Painting. All the TV seasons are available in DVD on Bob Ross’ Web site. Skim through the episodes until you find one or two you like. Then, make a list of the paint colors and brushes 'ole Bob uses.
You don't need to spend lots of money and you don't have to use oil paints. Acrylic paints in large bottles and cheap brushes are perfect. The same thing goes for canvases. They can be expensive, so substitute with large sheets of watercolor paper or poster board. Michaels is a good place to shop. And they often have coupons. A good prize is a frame for the big winner.
You need easels. I borrowed mine from a private school via a friend. You can buy tabletop easels made of foam core. Or, have your guests pull double duty as both artist and easel.
Party Time
Be sure to serve the Pisco Sours, or your favorite adult beverages, as your guests arrive. The dip and other nibbles can be set out, too. I recommend serving the dinner in between painting sets. Don't skip on the prizes! A frame for the winner is nice – you know they'll want to hang it over their mantle. Or, have a trophy made up. They're very inexpensive and lots of fun.
Peace, love and painting, dude!
Menu
Feel free to go wild with this menu. The idea is munchy food to go along with our mellow, hippy artist scene. Groovy.
Recipes by Jennifer Mitchell
Pisco Sours Recipe
- 3 parts Pisco (a Chilean brandy that packs a punch)
- 1 1/2 parts lemon juice
- 1 -2 tablespoons fine sugar
Cheese and Bean Dip Recipe
- One 8-ounce package cream cheese, sliced in thin slices
- One can Hormel Chili – no beans
- One package of shredded cheddar cheese
- One bunch of green onions – chopped (just the green part)
- Two bags of tortilla chips
Layer the ingredients in a baking dish in the order given – excluding the chips. Bake in a medium oven for about a half hour. Or, nuke in the microwave for about 5 minutes until melted. Serve with chips.
Sliders Recipe
Makes 12 mini hamburgers a la White Castle
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 chopped onion
- 1 package cheddar cheese slices
- One package Parker House rolls, or other type of dinner roll.
Mix the hamburger with salt and pepper. Make 12 little meatballs and flatten to form patties. Sauté the onions and set them aside. Cook up the burgers and add cheese, if desired. Place burgers on rolls, along with the onion.
>>> Sourcing:
Buy in stores: The Bob Ross Travel Easel at Micheals
Find: Store Locator of Micheals
Recipe: Classic Fish And Chips by Man-Made Food on FoodTV.ca
Recipe: Kellogg Original Rice Krispies Treats
Photo credits: Omer de Serres – art supplies pictures except the easel
Photo credit: Pisco Sour en casa by Capienzzo on Flickr – Some rights reserved
Photo credit: Cupcakes photographed by Quentin Bacon - Rights reserved picture
Guest Blogger: Jennifer Mitchell [Design Hole]
Categories:
EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
posted @ Tuesday, May 06, 2008 4:23 PM | Feedback (3)
I am thrilled to have my first guest blogger, Jennifer Mitchell of Design Hole.
I'm so happy to be guest blogging for Kim. I write about interior design and this gives me a chance to write about my second love – throwing dinner parties for friends. Did I mention that I love to cook? I do.
My favorite dinner party is the one I throw every January, when it's my turn to play hostess for my book club. In our book club, the hostess chooses the book. And, while we all always enjoy the associated discussion, for us the evening is really all about the food.
I like to plan the menu around the location or theme of the book. Sometimes it presents a bit of a challenge, but it also makes it more fun. Here is one of my favorite book club ideas.
To Kill A Mockingbird, by Harper Lee
Most people read this book in high school. But it's amazing how much more you take away from it as an adult. This Southern Gothic novel was drawn largely from Lee's childhood memories. Her life-long friend, Truman Capote, makes an appearance as Dill. I also recommend Mockingbird, an excellent biography of Lee written by Charles Shields.
A southern novel calls for southern food. My favorite cookbook for authentic recipes is The Gift of Southern Cooking, by Edna Lewis and Scott Peacock. This is the real deal, with an excellent Lane cake recipe. I have my own recipe for fried chicken (which I have my southern born grandmother to thank for). The cake is a particularly good choice because it's mentioned in the book as a secret recipe, and can be made several days in advance.
Menu
- Toast cups with shrimp salad
- Fried chicken
- Steamed asparagus
- Biscuits
- Lane cake
Jennifer Mitchell’s Fried Chicken
Throw your diet out the door – at least for one night. This recipe takes time, but don't skip steps. Trust me, it's worth it. Thanks go to my grandmother, who grew up in Bessemer, Alabama.
Ingredients:
- One 3-pound (1 1/2 Kilo) chicken, cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup kosher salt
- 1 quart/ liter buttermilk
- 1 1/2 pounds (3/4 kilo) lard
- 1 cup flour
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
Step by step instructions
- Brine the chicken (this tenderizes the meat and is essential) by soaking the pieces in a large bowl of water (about 2 quarts or liters) mixed with kosher salt for eight hours, or overnight. Drain and rinse out the bow. Return the chicken to the bowl and cover it with the buttermilk for another eight hours. Drain the chicken.
- To prepare for frying, mix the flour with the salt and pepper in a bowl. Heat the lard in a skillet (I use a well-seasoned cast iron one) to a temperature of 350 F (175 C). The temperature is really important.
- Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture and fry it for about 10 minutes on each side. Start with the skin side down, fry in batches – skimming the browned bit in between.
- Drain in a single layer on crumpled paper towels, or wire racks. Do not layer until you're ready to serve, or the chicken will steam itself and lose its crispness.
- Keep it warm in a low oven, until ready to serve. It's good at room temperature, too.
>>> Sourcing:
Buy online: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee at Amazon - price: $11.16 USD
Buy online: Mockingbird: A Portrait of Harper Lee by Charles J. Shields at Amazon- price: $10.50 USD
Buy online: The Gift of Southern Cooking: Recipes and Revelations from Two Great American Cooks by Edna Lewis at Amazon - price: $19.77 USD
Guest Blogger: Jennifer Mitchell [Design Hole]
Categories:
EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
posted @ Monday, May 05, 2008 11:43 AM | Feedback (1)
Event design is a huge market. Big brands have the monetary wealth to indulge in fabulous event decor. They make us dream and inspire us.
Let's me introduce you to the lavish creations from a prolific Australian three-dimensional design studio Gloss Creative.
Founded by Amanda Henderson in 2001, Gloss Creative merges the world of Visual Merchandising and design. They call their style Grand Simplicity. Gloss Creative works in four areas: marquees, runaways, set design and floral styling.
In case you do not know, marquee is the British term for a large tent set up for an outdoor party, reception, or exhibition. What I am showing you here are tents designed for the haute society horse races in Australia. I am talking about the Melbourne Cup Spring Racing Carnival events.
Three Party Themes
I could resist when I saw the Audrey Hepburn's Breakfast in Tiffany theme done for the Longines watches. It finished the circle that I started Monday with my beauty secrets.
Created in 2007, Fashion Topia featured shades of greens. The poufs with their velvet fabric were the stars. This marquee feels less luxurious but the layout works well for a cocktail event. People can move the seating at will to suit the social exchanges.
The Picnic Luxe Tent is adorable. I enjoy how they display the food. You could recycle this concept for a party this summer. The picnic theme can be interpreted in so many ways from a casual family style to a stylish Victorian era backdrop.
Wonderful Finger Food
I feel bad that I did not buy the February/March 2008 issue of Belle. I read this Australian magazine occasionally. The great article was published on Moët & Chandon's Le Chapiteau Merveilleux. That tent design raised the bar.
The woman Chef Shannon Bennett of the French restaurant Vue du Monde prepared the lunch platter. Guests were served vintage Moët & Chandon champagne with mini Wagyu steak sandwich, chickpea fries with dijonnaise, rabbit pithivier and the classic Peach Melba served with a modern twist on an Asian spoon. It sounds delicious.
>>> Sourcing:
Learn more: Gloss Creative
Photo credits: Bella article pictures taken by Mark Roper – Copyright pictures
Via: bye bye boring white . walls with dimension [ready 2 spark] + Gloss Creative [design to inspire]
Categories:
PARTY ideas
DISHING tips
BIG events
posted @ Saturday, April 26, 2008 2:33 AM | Feedback (1)
The latest episode of HGTV's Designer Guys was just in time to close my Earth Day coverage. The Designer Guys were called to give shape to the Tastemakers Celebrity Gift Lounge at Toronto International Film Festival 2007. Reusable, reclaimed and recycled act as the foundation.
My favorite ecological foundation, the World Wildlife Fund-Canada was official charitable partner. They raise funds and provides information for their Save Our Climate campaign.
Located in a 1250 square foot banquet room at InterContinental Toronto Yorkville hotel, the room had a temporary facelift to fit the event. The facelift required the use of temporary solutions that would not damage the original surfaces.
Whenever you host a large event, a total superficial facelift is something you can envision doing if you have a huge budget. This way the banquet room does not dictate a look of your event. Naturally, you need to rent your space from a flexible space provider. The banquet room has to be booked for a longer period. For example, the chandeliers and the drapes were removed from the room for the green event. The hotel needs time before and after to execute it. You can imagine that the supplementary costs can add on pretty fast.
Changing the Face of a Banquet Room
The traditional pattern rug on the room really clashed with the green design. Therefore, a cork floor was installed on top of the rug. Since the floor is installed with a clapping system without glue or nails, you can remove the floor as easily as you put it. It also improves the sound quality of the room as the cork sub-surface absorbs more sound. If you plan a large event or need to set up a trade show, a cork floor like this is a wonderful solution.
A living wall was installed by Elevated Landscape Technologies. I like the idea. But the plants used could have been cuter; it was too much wild flower for me. The most daring and successful element from my viewpoint is the giant art installations made of insulated concrete forms from Greenblock. The insulated concrete forms cover entirely the perimeter walls. It completely redefined the space. Again, this is an idea to borrow of you want to design a booth for a trade show.
As the founder of the Tastemakers Celebrity Gift Lounge, Debra Goldblatt talked about the need to educate and create even more awareness within the movie community:
There has never been a better trend than everybody attempting to go GREEN. We not only wanted to continue providing visiting talent a great Canadian lounge to visit, but during a week of frivolity and fun, use this opportunity to support a charity and continue educating others!
The three Designer Guys, Allen Chan, Anwar Mukhayesh and Matt Davis met the expectations of Debra Goldblatt, the president of Rock It Promotions. I invite you to read the article on BizBash Toronto to learn more about the eco-friendly products that were used in the Tastemakers Green Room.
More Green Living Ideas
To do your part for the environment on a daily basis, check out my latest posts on green living:
Sourcing:
Learn more: Tastemakers Celebrity Gift Lounge Goes Green on BizBash Toronto
Categories:
PARTY ideas
TRENDS
BIG events
posted @ Monday, April 21, 2008 5:51 PM | Feedback (0)
My friend and painter Bettina Forget hosted a great party last Saturday (April 12th, 2008) to commemorate the anniversary of First Man in Space. Yuri Gagarin became the first human to reach space on April 12th, 1961. Yuri orbited the Earth.
The Decor
The loft apartment was nicely decorated for the event. Several guests rented or made cool science-fiction costumes.
Astronomical art exhibit of paintings done by Bettina coupled with the projection of space images and astro-art iMovies created a wonderful atmosphere.
The Space Agency gave us posters, pins, stickers, tattoos so people without costumes looked more festive. Individual gift bags greeted us at the door.
The Drink Menu
Russian vodka was on top of the alcohol chain. The signature drink was Cosmonaut, a drink made of vodka and Tang. At the bar station, the Space-Themes Drink menu was filled with Apollo ‘n Lemon, Sputnik, Saturn V, Soyuz Capsule, Voyager, Mir, Rasputin and Sea of Tranquility.
Costume Contest
Next year, Jerome and I will get some costumes. In fact, Jerome was sad that he did not purchase a Star Trek uniform when we visited the Star Trek The Experience in Las Vegas last January. Two prizes were awarded for the best space-inspired costume.
Grand-prize winner for his outstanding helmet design: Olivier Hanigan - check it on Bettina's blog
Runner-up winner for her sublime hoola-hoop performance: Kelli Hanrahan
Bettina wrote a nice recollection of Yuri Night 08 on her Inside the Artist's Studio blog. Like Bettina said: Montrealers know how to party! We went to bed pretty late. On our way home, we stopped by at Fairmont Bagels to buy more freshly out of the oven bagels. We ate a final one before going to bed and kept the rest for Sunday breakfast. Jerome and I cannot wait for the 2009 edition.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Yuri loves Montreal! On Inside the Artist's Studio
Photo credits: Jerome Paradis
Categories:
EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
posted @ Friday, April 18, 2008 2:41 PM | Feedback (0)
I was looking for fresh ideas a couple weeks ago when I received the digital version of Canadian House & Home May 2008. It is their Green Issue. I want to give pointers for people who care for the environment but are not an aficionado. In short, I am talking about a green party that we can all do.
1. Serving Uncooked Food
Since we eat three times a day, how we cultivate, prepare and consume food has a huge impact of the environment. So why not rely less on the stove for this dinner party?
Besides serving the obvious salads, sushi, meat tartars and vegetarian dishes, what can you do? Canadian H&H reminded me of the raw food movement. I am not a follower but I can see some merits.
Raw Food Movement
Cooking raw requires new cooking techniques and recipes. Raw food is not to cook over 118 degrees Fahrenheit because higher heat degrades the enzymes that help the digestion system. I look at some recipes. Many are lengthy especially if you wish to reproduce the taste and texture of cooked food. If you are a novice, your best bet is probably to order from a raw food caterer or restaurant in your area.
There are recipes for beginners. The Cold-Cured Salmon Gravlax is one of them. This is a dish that everybody will feel comfortable with. The raw food recipe from Canadian House & Home May 2008 is basically the traditional Scandinavian Gravlax recipe with agave nectar instead of sugar, Kosher salt and the leaves from 3 sprigs of fresh tarragon plus 4 sprigs of fresh dills.
11 More Tips to Plan Your Eco-Friendly Party
Some of these tips are my own, others I read in the Green Issue of Canadian House & Home.
- Serve flavored tap water in a pitcher. Use frozen fruits or fresh herbs. To set a chic love of nature feeling, make own water popsicles as I shown you last summer.
- If you are looking for glamour, make your own sparkling water with the vintage seltzer bottles. They look fabulous. From art deco to Hollywood style, they are a whole array to dig up.
- Buy local organic produces as much as possible. Limit the use of manufactured, processed food
- Rely less in power kitchen equipment. You can prepare homemade dips in five minutes with a manual food processor. Look at the dip recipes featured on the Kitchen.
- Freshly cut herbs boost the flavor of any dish. Cultivate your own herbs. It even decorates your kitchen.
- Use organic fabric napkins and tablecloths. I am showing you the latest eco friendly fabric collection designed by Lara of Kirin Notebook. The colors complement the party theme. It shows that you do not need to look blah to be eco-friendly. Look for organic cotton, bamboo and hemp.
- Retrain from using paper and plastic tableware. Or you can use Bambu dinnerware and flatware. The Bambu collection looks so organic.
- Have a candlelight dinner. To create a nice mood, spread solar power landscape lamps around your house for a soothing glow. You could also hang decorative LED lamps.
- Make a centerpiece with organic locally grown flowers.
- Play in the background the series Earth by the BBC on the big screen. So people can appreciate the beauty of our Blue Planet. There is nothing more convincing than seeing with your own eyes.
- Give each family a trio of herbs in a terracotta pot or a tree growing kit as party favors.
I feel the big message of Earth Day is to fall in love again with our planet.
Sourcing:
Learn more: New organic eco friendly fabrics! On Kirin Notebook
Buy online: Planet Earth - The Complete BBC Series – price: $59.95 USD for the Blu-Ray version
Buy online: Starfrit Manual Food Processor – price: $24.99 CAD
Buy online: Natural tree-growing gift-kit at CadOsphere – price: $14.95 CAD
Photo credits: Cold-Cured Salmon Gravlax, Seltzer bottles, Noma Eco-Bright Light – Canadian House & Home May 2008 issue
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
TABLEWARE
PARTY favors
posted @ Tuesday, April 15, 2008 12:52 PM | Feedback (3)
I just read the latest book by wedding style guru Maria McBride called Party Basics for New Nesters. The book aimed to be a guide for the first year of entertaining that will experience newlyweds.
The book captures a series of stylish decor, table settings, and menu options. Party Basics for New Nesters cover the yearly round of events from romantic parties for two, dinners for four, weekend feasts, family celebrations, and a wide range of holidays.
Featured posts
In line with the concept of helping newlyweds and young adults to raise the bar compared to their college day party days, I selected three wonderful posts that go back to the basics of entertaining.
NOTCOT for Target’s Club Wedd Catalog- 04.03.08
Target devised their latest catalogue for those prepping for their vows around the same ideas but for what you need around the house. I have to agree that the What you need in your kitchen drawer on page 74 covers the kitchen utensil essentials that anyone should have for cooking.
The followers of Daily Candy will recognize the illustrations style. Yes, Target hired Sujean Rim, the signature illustrator behind Daily Candy to give personality to their wedding catalog. Sujean is right on the spot as usual.
La Tartine Gourmande for Hard Boiled Eggs — Les oeufs durs
I told you before Easter that hard boiled eggs are making a comeback. Like Beatrice's father, my father used to eat hard boiled eggs as a snack. You can serve hard boiled eggs at a brunch or bring them at a picnic.
This time, Beatrice made these cute Dressed Up Marbled Eggs with oil marinated anchovies, chives, horseradish preserved in vinegar, fleur de sel and pepper.
For a brunch table, showcase a couple whole eggs with braided chives on your serving plate. Take some clues on how to do it by visiting La Tartine Gourmande. It is a sure way to impress your guests.
Rare Bird Finds for Etsy Saturday!
The Birdiebird Coffee Mug by dolamakes etsy seller displays colorful little birds on a wire. They remind me of lovebirds. For your first brunch, you will need cute mugs. Each mug is painted free-hand. With its various groupings and birdies rolling solo, no two mugs are exactly alike.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Party Basics for New Nesters by Maria McBride - price: $26.37 at Amazon.com
Buy online: Birdiebird Coffee Mug by Dolamakes - price: $12 USD
Categories:
EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
posted @ Monday, April 07, 2008 12:50 PM | Feedback (1)
I was inspired by too many objects when I was writing my Dotted Theme for a Girl Graduation Party post, that I created a second mood board.
This one is an exercise in pattern arrangements. See how a traditional pattern can take a new life when it is harmonized with hip patterns.
My Design
You can leave the top open of the Teeny Green Dots Lunch Box to use them to store vintage mil bottle filled with non alcoholic cocktails or juices. Next to a buffet table, use them as a container for the napkins. Below is the Chain Link pattern from the MacBeth Collection. Chain Link is offer in Pool (blue) and Apple (green).
The Party Girls invites by Inviting Company are suitable whether you are preparing a Sweet 16 birthday for a girl, a graduation party or a girl night out. You can send them to your girl friends if you want to throw a Before Movie Cocktail the premiere of the Sex and The City movie. Add $50 for printed invites by thermography, lithography or value printing (I do not know what this means)
Pop Ink makes the retro style heavy-duty melamine plates. Their plate illustrations range from the whimsical with a touch of kitsch to lovable drawings. Each set of four plates are packaged in a jewel-like acrylic display box. The designs by Pop Ink are sure to inspire to throw more parties. I select a botanical design called Plant Food.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Metal Lunch Box at The MacBeth Collection – price: $48 USD, $35 for the mini
Buy online: Party Girls invitation cards at Paper Affairs – price: $13 for 10 unprinted invites
Buy online: Pop Ink Plant Food Melamine Plate Set at Velocity Art & Design – price: $36 USD for 4 dinner plates
Categories:
PARTY ideas
PARTY supplies
TABLEWARE
posted @ Monday, April 07, 2008 1:23 AM | Feedback (0)
A mother wrote to me because she is looking for fun unique ideas for the graduation party of her daughters in May. They want polka dots for a theme with lots of bright spring colors!
I expanded on the polka dots theme for a trendier look. I went instead with fresh, bold patterns where dots are omnipresent. The final look is amusing and young.
Sharing Memories
The mother told me that the girls do not want the boring photo albums. A graduation party is a time to remember where you have been. So I will show you other ways to share memories.
For starter, I suggest distributing around the room notebooks with colored pens for people to write their taught. The unlined notebooks work the best for a party since people can draw or write their messages. Small notebooks are more practical because they are easier to carry around. Select a model that does not require a writing surface. As the girls will get older, they will be happy to have memorabilia of their graduation.
I chose recycled paper notebooks from a small Canadian design studio. The products of ecojot are widely available through retailers across Canada, the United States and in a few international stores. The illustrations I selected clearly convey spring and happiness.
Taking about memories, why not take the time to reflect of the past years without disrupting the path of the party. For that goes with a continuous playing slideshow on the TV during the party or install a screen with a projector. Let me explain the beauty of it.
I suggest a continuous play because your guests look at it when it pleases them. A set projection time always breaks the flow of a party. Trust me, it is a lot of more fun and it generates more interactions between the guests that way.
How to Make a Slideshow
Create a slideshow with the pictures that best illustrates their time at the school. It is more interesting to develop a story based on theme / interest instead of making a time based story. Include pictures from their friends.
Unless you make a DVD copy for their friends, do not bother about the music since it would interfere with the great music playing at the party. Create a slideshow that lasts 5 to 10 minutes. Typically, I leave 15 to 20 seconds between photos. Keep the transitions simple and use the same transition (two to the max).
My Design
Graduations, even from high schools, are a bridge between childhood and adulthood. The items I selected reflected that fact. I really like the Fun Dots Pink and Green Invitation.
The funky GroBal Pot designed by Karim Rashid keeps your house plants lush, green, and looking sharp. I suggest you make long rows. You can mix the small (baby) and the regular sizes. I like to thank Nicole Lecht of freshly Blended that introduced these modern iconic egg-like pots to me.
The fantasia disposable tableware set looks stunning. This modern kaleidoscope of color was designed by for Jackie Shapiro for French Bull. I would suggest using certain pieces but not all of them at once. You can go for a fuchsia tablecloth. You can make you own placemat with fuchsia paper sheets.
You can insert Teeny Dot buckets from The MacBeth Collection. Their pattern collections are very impressive. What is great with The MacBeth Collection is that you can add your girls’ initials and customize the patterns.
The buckets are great for the bar station. Get several sizes to serve large quantity of citrus fruits and smaller one for the cherries, olives, etc. Since these buckets are not designed for food consumption, insert either a glass jar or a parchment paper to serve any sliced fruits and vegetables. You can use the buckets to distribute candies or the party favors.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Fun Dots Pink and Green Invitation at The Stationery Studio – price: $90 USD for 25 flat 6" x 9" invitations
Buy online: Karim Rashid: GroBal at Velocity Art & Design – price: $24 USD
Buy online: Karim Rashid: GroBal Baby – price: $15 USD
Learn more: 3 x4" notebooks by ecojot – see their retailer listing
Buy online: French Bull Fantasia paper dessert plates at Plum Party – price: $4.75 USD for 8
Buy online: Buckets at The MacBeth Collection - starting at $25 for the bitsy, $35 for the midi
Via: freshly Blended
Categories:
PAPER goods
PARTY ideas
BIG events
posted @ Friday, April 04, 2008 2:59 PM | Feedback (4)
I am always watching for stylishly decorated cupcakes. Fondant decorated cakes are my favorites. So imagine how glad I was yesterday when I came across the most stunning cupcakes I ever saw.
The power of social networks
My journey started by looking at the Facebook profile of new friends I made last Wednesday at the Montreal Girl Geek Dinner. I spotted a comment about a cupcake montage for the m0851 Fashion Show and Press conference. This event occurred this week as part of the current Montreal Fashion Week. This is how I discovered Michelle, the talented girl behind Clever Cupcakes.
Custom designs
What I am showing you are the Creative cupcakes. My husband and I are planning to host a Nintendo Wii party in a near future. We were both ecstatic in front of the Super Mario Brothers Cupcakes and the Pacman Cupcakes. I really appreciate the profusion of fine details in these hand-made fondant decorations.
It is not just the cucpcakes for geeks and Ninetendo fans that are stunning. Clever Cupcakes cater different styles. You can ask her to design something special for baby showers, kid birthdays, wedding showers and a tea party.
Clever Cupcakes made 7 dozens of chocolate and vanilla cupcakes with chocolate and vanilla buttercream topped with handmade fondant decorations for teacher appreciation week at two local schools. The teachers must have been happy.
How to order from Clever Cupcakes?
Operating like a catering company, their cupcakes are made to order. They are baked fresh for delivery in the Montreal area. People can place their order online or by phone.
Their is no minimum quantity for the creative cupcakes. The regular and the wholesome cupcakes are sold by the dozen.
About the food
All their Her Wholesome cupcakes are sweetened with Agave Nectar, a natural sweetener often considered suitable for diabetics. Clever Cupcakes can satisfy all the taste buds with a wide selection of cake flavors, icings and fillings. The Boston Cream filling and the All Chocolate are supposed to be exquisite.
You can order your cupcakes in the regular size or as mini cupcakes. Beside the adorable Creative cupcakes, there are Classic cupcakes. The Wholesome series is an upscale, healthier version of the classic due to the agave nectar and the choice of unbleached organic flour and the 100% Whole Wheat flour.
I will share my experience with Clever Cupcakes after our Wii party or my birthday, whichever comes first. If you tasted these cupcakes before, feel free to share your experience.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Clever Cupcakes
Categories:
PARTY ideas
KIDS party
CAKES
posted @ Saturday, March 29, 2008 1:35 PM | Feedback (3)
My theory is that you should keep at home a reserve of hostess gifts. This way, you are always ready for an impromptu dinner party invitation and you save time by minimizing your shopping trips.
A lot of people from newlyweds to single men are searching for clues on how to entertain properly. The best books for them pass on tips for simple entertaining. Easy to follow instructions and gorgeous photography are essentials. Otherwise, people do not put into practice what is in the book.
That is what I like about the books by Ryland Peters & Small. To make it easier for you, stash any of these 4 new releases until you need a hostess gift:
The beauty within a book
Ryland Peters & Small are renowned for their books devoted to: food and drinks, home and garden, health and well-being. Their books provide practical information about planning, staging and organizing an event at home.
This British editor has a distinctive look. Once you know the brand, you can instantly identity that you are holding on your hand a Ryland Peters & Small book. I am a fan obviously of their fresh modern visual.
What is your favorite book about entertaining?
Categories:
EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
GIFT ideas
HOSTESS gifts
posted @ Monday, March 24, 2008 7:33 PM | Feedback (1)
I am glad that my very resourceful friend Kelly gave me a tip this morning. It is a cool event concept.
The investigator, Laurent Haug is a Swiss guy that got the brilliant idea to draw attention to the best cooking of grandmothers.
The idea is relatively simple to implement in any city. Grandmothers get more attention and see their expertise recognized by younger generations. Grandmothers can pass on their old tricks to us.
You discovered the best cooking tips only if you cook with someone. Did you know putting some white vinegar on your salad when you wash it brings the insects to the surface? Laurent learned this handy solution from her grandmother while she participated in the first Dinner with Grandma.
How it works?
You find a restaurant that is willing to participate. Ideally, select a restaurant with 30 to 60 places. Plan the event on a slow restaurant night, like a Monday night. Find a grandmother that is an excellent cook. Have a test run of the grandmother cooking. You can use the social networks on the Web to find the grandmother candidates.
Let the grandmother plans her menu with the restaurant owner. The restaurant owner will calculate the food quantity and handle the food ordering. The restaurant owner will calculate the fixed cost per guest. Drinks are not included in the fixed price menu. Advertise the event on your blogs and social networks.
The day of the event
For the public, the event starts around 6 o'clock PM with a cocktail. Plan two kitchen helpers for cutting the ingredients and preparing the plates. Typically, the grandmother meets you and the kitchen staff at the restaurant around 2 o'clock the afternoon of the event. She will cook a little but mostly, she provides instructions to the Chef and the kitchen helpers.
Around 6 o'clock PM, greet the guests. About 45 minutes later, introduce the life story of the grandmother at the beginning. The grandmother will then explain her menu. I think she should be in the room during the entire meal to exchange with the people.
If you want to know more, Elizabeth Bowie interviewed Laurent Haug who shares his experience and vision on How to Host a Dinner with Grandma Event. If you live in the Toronto, Spark is looking for a grandmother that is a truly fantastic cook to participate in their own Dinner with Grandma Event.
March 24th Update: If the grandmother does not mind, you can publish a small booklet with the meal recipes.
A Web site dedicated to grandmother’s cooking
I found a Web community where grandma from the world can show us to cook. What's Cooking Grandma? is a project to create a cookbook of the grandmothers of the world sharing their special recipes. You can film your grandmother while she cooked her famous recipes. Then, upload the videos on What's Cooking Grandma?
Grandma’s cooking and baby on Flickr
The vintage illustrations are from a fun booklet on cooking meal planning published in 1957. The artist Albert Aquino apparently drew these charming illustrations that I found on Flickr thanks to wardomatic.
Sourcing:
Photo credits: 1957 Home Meal Planner set by wardomatic on Flickr - Illustrations by Albert Aquino
Via: Want to host a Grandma dinner? published on Spark
Via: Hello Grandma, Spark is Calling...
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
FAMILY style
posted @ Sunday, March 23, 2008 2:07 PM | Feedback (1)
Today I presented an unusual source for party inspirations. An office.
Advertising companies and cool IT companies often provide fun working environment. They devise whimsical meeting rooms to stimulate the creativity of their team. It is also a place where the employees can relax between tasks.
The Google Office in Zurich looks pretty amazing. The cocoon forest is so cool. It is a child theme executed in a refined manner. Therefore, the room design is suitable for grown ups and kids.
A pattern is often enough to transform an object. For a more feminine design, the exterior of that cocoon exhibits a baroque floral motif in another space. A pinky red and black chandelier hangs over it. Lovely! Check out the Picasa Web album to see it.
When I saw the penguins, the igloos and the old ski gondolas, I immediately imagined an end of winter party at the cottage. Then, start building several canoe sofas for the barbecue party season. The canoe sofa should be a hit so everybody will want to be invited at your parties.
How to do it yourself?
If you have a milestone party coming up soon, go for a memorable party theme. Explore the possibility of hosting your party in enchanted scenery. It is required more time and money to organize a unique, remarkable party but the memories will last a lifetime.
Obviously, you will need props to reproduce something these theatrical decors at home but it is feasible. As you can see, you can salvage old equipments and give them a new purpose.
To pull it off, you will need to think outside the box, be a resourceful shopper, find a local place where you can rent many props and have a handy man at your service. Talk to a visual merchandiser, a display designer or décor designer in your area as they know the best places in town to find props. They know the tricks of the trade in make-belief. Therefore, hiring a display designer or décor designer will make a huge difference on the results. Price varies but they charge about the same price as an interior designer.
Creating a community feeling
Most employees at the Zurich Google office move to Switzerland to work there. So building a community and having activities in and out of the office are important to retain the workers. I noticed several playrooms and pretty amazing relaxing areas. Check their Picasa Web album for more inspirations.
I hope that looking at these fun rooms put a smile on your face. I am curious to know: What is the coolest thing about your work place?
Sourcing:
Learn more: Picasa Web album of the Zurich Google office
Via: Zurich Office published on Interior Design Room
Categories:
PARTY ideas
KIDS party
posted @ Thursday, March 13, 2008 12:33 PM | Feedback (0)
It is snowy a lot down here so I feel that a piece of sunny paradise is in order. These pictures were taken from the Six Senses luxury resorts, which are absolutely stunning vacation places.
Guests at any of the Six Senses resorts stay in their own villa with generous personal space. Although the villas respect the country traditional architecture, their style displays a hint of modern architecture. These resorts are unique and remarkable.
But even though you do not live in such an idyllic place, you can still throw a fabulous romantic picnic. As I checked how Six Senses designed the private dining experience for their guests, I can see that the same elements are reused and adapted to the surroundings.
The Basic Recipe
If you wish to host a romantic dinner, find a beautiful secluded spot, bring up lots of deep cushions, rattan stools or even a table and chairs. Add candle lights, throws and serve a bunch of appetizers. Bring exotic looking trays in earthy materials. Hire a caterer and ask them to set it properly so it is easy to display on site.
Even on your backyard, you can create a sentiment of intimacy and grandeur. If you live in the city or the crowded suburbs, enclose the dining space with drapes, small trees, vines and dividing walls. Use a small waterfall to cover the noise. Play your favorite romantic music or go with a spa mood with the relaxing sounds of sea. The idea is to set a time and place, away from your busy life.
If you have children, hire a babysitter if the picnic is not at home. Otherwise, organize for them to sleep at grandma. Make sure you and your partner close the cell phones. Enjoy your time together!
About Six Senses Resorts
The first two rows are pictures from Six Senses Hideaway Zighy Bay, located on the northern Musandam Peninsula in the Sultanate of Oman. The place is magical if you wish a real change of scenery.
The bottom pictures were taken at Six Senses Hideaway Ninh Van Bay located in Vietnam. In 2007, Six Sense Spa at Nha Trang was one of the Top 50 Hotels from the Travel + Leisure World's Best Award.
The Six Senses Spa at Hua Hin, Thailand was awarded the Best Rooms by Conde' Nast Traveller The Gold List 2007. I will stop because the list is too long. If you are looking for luxury accommodations in Asia, check out the Six Senses Web site before finalizing your travel arrangements.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Six Senses Resorts & Spas
Categories:
PARTY ideas
OUTDOOR
TRAVEL
posted @ Wednesday, March 05, 2008 12:32 PM | Feedback (4)
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.
Housewarming Gifts / Bridal Shower Gifts
Share your favorite recipes with the guest of honor. Tastebook enables you to create an outstanding cookbook at a very reasonable price. You can select recipes from Gourmet, Bon Appétit, Epicurious and even add your own family secret recipes.
Besides the obvious cover image and title personalization, you can organize your recipes any way you want with up to ten colored tabbed chapters. You can add helpful hints, cooking tips, and personal notes to any recipe. Then, the cookbook is delivered all professionally printed. From my point of view, Tastebook is the most stylish custom-made cookbook option at an affordable price. I have to find time to make my own.
This vintage hostess apron is adorable. Check out the etsy shop of Boojiboo to see her entire collection. Finally if you want to splurge a little, get the Dedo Seasoning Sticks by Bosa. Unfortunately, the sticks are out of stock at the moment. So if you host a movie night for the Oscar, compose your own set of spices to season your popcorn and homemade chips.
Recipe: Homemade Turnip Chips
Be more adventurous and prepare chips out of turnips. You slice small and medium turnips with a mandoline and cook them in canola oil for about 8 minutes. I turned them over after 5 minutes so they will be crispier. Remove the excess oil with a paper towel and keep them out of moisture until serving.
I am leaving you with a taste of Mmm... Gumbo? by Room Eleven. The first single is called Hey Hey Hey.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Room Eleven
Buy online: Tastebook – price: $34.95 USD
Buy online: Vintage Inspired Flower Half Apron by Boojiboo at etsy – price: 18.75 USD
Buy online: Bosa's Dedo Seasoning Sticks at A+R Store – price: $70 USD
Via: Hey Hey Hey on Sia Grafica
Via: Bosa's Dedo Spice Sticks on The Kitchn
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
GIFT ideas
posted @ Friday, February 22, 2008 1:02 PM | Feedback (0)
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.
Wedding gowns from the Amarildine collection cost between $3000 and $5000 USD. The unusual brides should check out Ian Stuart. This London designer creates unique, stylish yet almost whimsical wedding gowns. If you are invited to a black tie party, evening gowns are available at Kleinfeld.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Kleinfeld Bridal
Categories:
PARTY ideas
BIG events
posted @ Monday, February 18, 2008 10:58 AM | Feedback (1)
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.
As he was realizing that they were no more tulips left, my favorite flower, a girl got off the fridge with this fabulous bouquet. He immediately asked the girl: Can I have this one? I am looking for tulips and you are out.
Repeating Colors
If you read my blog yesterday, you are aware that we planned to drink Brut Rosé Champagne. I bought a delicious strawberry mousse cake at the French bakery. My color scheme was pink-copper from the Champagne, plus the red, soft pink and French vanilla from the cake.
The Universe was with us. It supplied my husband with a bouquet done on the same color palette. He and I are a match made for heaven. :-)
I want to teach you that designing an amazing tabletop starts with great bones and a clear overall concept. The accessories must be selected because they fit within the overall concept. Great designs mix form and function. Matching the food and the decor is a neat trick.
Repeating Shapes
Loops and ovals are omnipresent on my design. I got 3D loops with the branches while my dessert plates displayed 2D loops. The ovals appeared on several angles. The fact that the shapes do not appear all the same adds an element of surprise.
It is a balancing act. What you need to watch for is that your guests will not get tired to see the same shape over and over.
More about My Celebrations
We ate sushi last night but we ended up eating at the restaurant. Where we go, take outs are not their main function. Typically, it is a 20-minute wait when we order take outs. Since the wait was longer yesterday night, we sat at the sushi bar to sip cold sake and eat our miso soup. By the time they started preparing our sushi order in front of us, we decided to eat the rest at the restaurant.
Anyway, I did photograph the best for you when we returned. I did a vignette on my dressing room / home office developed around the circles. I will show it to you in the upcoming weeks.
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
PARTY ideas
posted @ Friday, February 15, 2008 2:30 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.
Decorate the table with red and gold accents. Make a centerpiece in an instant by nicely arranging a bowl of oranges and tangerines. Display some with the leaves on, if you can.
What to eat?
If you have no time to cook, Chinese food take-outs can come to your rescue. Make sure to order spring rolls, dishes with noodles plus several dishes with fish and chicken.
I also prepared a list of recipes taken from FoodTV.ca.If you wish to cook, try any of my suggested recipes. They are simple to prepare.
Fortune station
Chef Michael Smith showed us how to quickly make your own fortune cookies. When they arrive ask your guests to write three fortune. Set up a station with pens and cut paper pieces.
Wear a red dress and you are ready to enjoy yourself with your friends and family.
Read my article on Food Network Canada to understand the symbolism behind the various elements of the Chinese New Year. This way, you can easily host a meaningful Chinese New Year party.
Gung Hey Fat Choy -- Happy New Year and be prosperous!
Sourcing:
Photo credit: Spring Festival Couplets by poorfish
Photo credit: Lion Dance by stu_spivack
Photo credit: Chinese Buddhist New Year, Amsterdam by Cookiemouse
Photo credit: dbs red packet by hermanwest
Learn more: Host a Chinese New Year Party by Kim Vallee, entertaining expert on FoodTV.ca
Categories:
IN the press
PARTY ideas
HOLIDAY
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.
You should also make new amazing memories that day. So why not take some time off and enjoy the conversion in a park or in front of a lake. If you live in the right climate, organize a romantic picnic with champagne. Trip Trap is foldable wood veneer bench. Pretty and
For a beautiful tablecloth, nothing looks more amazing and festive that the fabrics designed by Amy Butler. Bella is the first line of fabrics Amy designed for Rowan. I selected the Okra / Kashmir but I heisted a minute since I am fond of my going out purse made with the Duck egg / French wallpaper fabric.
For dessert, I suggest you bake either a molten chocolate cake or a lavender crème brûlée. These cute Crème Brûlée Dishes costs only $3.50 at Crate & Barrel. They are big enough for you to share one dish. How romantic! For the breakfast the morning after, bring out the coffee on this very affordable, modern veneer tray.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Cassie Leather Jewelry Box at Pottery Barn – price:$49 USD
Buy online: fotofalls multi designed by Tom Vincent for Umbra – price:$42 CAD
Learn more: Trip Trap by Nyheder
Buy online: Belle fabric collection by Amy Butler
Buy online: Willow Wood Tray at Crate & Barrel – price: $19.95 USD
Buy online: Crème Brûlée Dish at Crate & Barrel – price: $3.50 USD
Via: The LEAN sitting machine on Yanko Design
Categories:
PARTY ideas
HOLIDAY
posted @ Thursday, February 07, 2008 12:24 AM | Feedback (1)
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:
I read in the Globe and Mail an interesting article by Rebecca Field Jager on the subject. I encourage reading it for more tips on how to host a stylish Super Bowl party.
Sourcing:
Via: Spruce up your Super Bowl menu
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
DISHING tips
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.
About her menu
She prepared two recipes from Les Halles Cookbook. The heart of her authentic French cooking menu could be done the day before. This is a must if you intent to cater a sit-down dinner for a party of 10 all by herself. Jennifer judiciously selected:
- Soup de Poissons, a Provencal classic recipe
- Coq au Vin
- Mixed salad with her Dad's salad dressing recipe
- Baked apples with rum-soaked raisins, honey, almonds and current sauce.
I cannot agree more with her dessert choice. I wrote a soon to be published article for Food TV where I paid tribute to the health values of serving baked apples for dessert.
Favorite quotes
Jennifer published quotes from Kitchen Confidential on placemats. These work well as topic starters. The cost of printing them on a tabloid size at Kinko's was about $12.
More ideas for when you host a book club event
Hand out small chalkboards to all the guests. You can run a quiz and people can write the answer with their chalkboard. Chalk It To Me is a cute chalkboard place mats available at Uncommon Goods.
For a temporary wall solution, apply removable and repositionable vinyl chalkboard panels. The 9 x 12-inch Wallies Peel & Stick Chalkboard Panels in Slate Gray is a low cost solution; although no words on whether or not your walls will be damaged.
More expensive but also twice as big, the WallCandy ChalkBoard panels go up in minutes and can be removed without damaging your walls according the WallCandy Arts Web site.
Paint several vases with specialty chalk board. Spread the vases over the dining table. Decorate one or two but leave the rest free for your guests to