HOLIDAY
party themes, activities, invites, menus and gift ideas and more on Valentine Day, Mother's Day, Father's Day and similar occasions
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).
How it works?
They all provide online a tool to design your postage using the same 3 steps. You first submit your own digital image. Then, you adjust your image into the stamp frame. Finally, you send your order.
In the United States, I like PictureItPostage by Endicia. There 2 main advantages are:
- bigger stamp – your picture is 1 1/2" x 1 3/16". Stamp is 2 1/2" x 1 9/16"
- background colors – which I like a lot.
Zazzle is another company that I discovered through Perfect Bound, a cute blog by a girl who day dreams about living abroad, dark chocolate and being a magazine editor. Today, she paired wedding invitations with customized stamps. Check her post; she did an excellent pairing job.
The special features at Zazzle are:
- you can write a small message text on top of your picture
- three sizes of stamp
- you can select pictures from the community gallery.
Canadian Way
The Canadian stamps look better in my opinion because they do not have a bar code. They look like regular stamp. But honestly, they are all pretty cool and can be as stylish as you design them. In Canada, you can buy a sheet of 40 stamps or a Keepsake Sheet of 20 stamps with a large image printed to keep as a souvenir.
Plan ahead and leave you plenty of time for delivery. These custom gifts make great gifts to new parents, grand parents or new homeowners.
>>> Sourcing:
Buy online: PictureItPostage - price: $18.95 USD for 20 large stamps
Buy online: Zazzle Custom Stamps – price: $16.95 USD for 20 medium stamps
Buy online: The Knot Wedding Postage Collection [Zazzle]
Buy online: Picture Postage – price: $24.95 for 20 stamps + a large keepsake image
Via: squared away [Perfect Bound]
Categories:
EVERYDAY
PAPER goods
GIFT ideas
HOLIDAY
BIG events
posted @ Thursday, May 15, 2008 11:16 PM | Feedback (0)
I hosted a casual Mother’s Day event this year. My husband and I invited our mothers for an intimate breakfast.
My husband cooked wonderful omelets. I have to say this was his best ever. He prepared a Swiss cheese and mushroom omelet with freshly cut chives from our garden.
Tableware
We kept the tabletop really simple. The beauty emerged from the charming plates and cups. It was also the first time I ate in my new Chirp dinnerware set by Lenox. This 2007 pattern is so adorable.
I could have placed the plates over my Birds 'n Trees placemats from Modern-Twist like I shown you here. But a checkered tablecloth caught my eyes that morning. I bought this cotton tablecloth at La Maison Simons last year.
I bought my Vertu flatware by Retroneu at William Ashley in Toronto the year it was launched, i.e., in 1991. I still love it today. This flatware model is discontinued since 2003.
>>> Sourcing:
Buy online: Chirp Dinnerware by Lenox – price:$99.95 USD per 5-piece setting
Buy online: Silicone placemats by Modern-Twist at Lekker – price: $22 USD
RELATED POST:
+ My recipe to successfully design a tabletop
Categories:
HOLIDAY
TABLEWARE
FAMILY style
posted @ Wednesday, May 14, 2008 10:31 AM | Feedback (0)
My husband and I are having breakfast with my mother and my mother in law.
I wish all moms a great day surrounded with their loved ones. Happy Mother's Day!
This is a picture of my mother and I that was taken a few years ago at Mother's Day.
In fact, I delayed the delivery for about two weeks to be born on Mother's Day. I was a double gift for my mother. This is my excuse when I am late for a casual social event.
Categories:
HOLIDAY
FAMILY style
posted @ Sunday, May 11, 2008 12:18 PM | Feedback (0)
My favorite Mother's Day memory is the year my brother, sister and I (all in elementary school) pooled our money together and bought as much chocolate fudge as we could afford from our mother's coveted chocolate emporium. As Mom is a chocoholic, she was thrilled. And so were we, since, for some reason, we bought way too much chocolate for just one person.
The memory inspired me to create a Mother's Day menu designed with children in mind. Adult supervision is required, but the kids can do most of the work.
Breakfast in Bed for Mom
Breakfast is the easiest meal to prepare. And after all the tedious work that Moms do, they deserve a day to sleep in and enjoy a day off. Start the day off right with the most important meal of the day. And if there's chocolate involved, prepared by loving hands, it's sure to be an extra good day.
Breakfast Menu
- French Toast au Chocolat
- Sage seasoned sausage patties
- Fresh strawberries
- Coffee or tea
- Freshly squeezed orange juice
Recipes by Jennifer Mitchell
French Toast au Chocolat Recipe
This is easy for children to help prepare, as it bakes in the oven instead of cooking on the stove.
- 1 baguette – a day old
- 4 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup confectioner's sugar
- Chocolate sauce
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Lightly butter a 9 x 13-inch baking pan, slice the baguette into 1-inch slices, and place the slices into the pan.
- In a bowl beat the eggs, then whisk in the milk, sugar, vanilla and salt. Pour over the bread, and let it soak for 15 minutes.
- Bake the French toast for 30 to 40 minutes, until the egg mixture is set. Remove from the oven.
- Place the French toast on plates, dust with confectioner's sugar. Finish by drizzling the chocolate syrup over the top.
Sage Sausage Patties Recipe
You can always buy the ready-made variety. But if you're in the mood for a special treat, why not make your own?
- 1 pound ground fresh pork, chilled
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons minced fresh sage
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- In a bowl combine the ingredients, except for the oil, in a bowl and chill for an hour.
- Divide the mixture into 8 balls and flatten into patties.
- In a skillet heat the oil over moderate heat until it is hot but not smoking. Fry the patties for 3 minutes on each side and drain them on paper towels.
Presentation
Moms love a nice place setting. Start with a breakfast tray lined with a personalized placemat. This can be made from any kind of paper you have around the house. Have the kids make a special drawing or decorate it with stickers, glitter or whatever art supplies you have in the house.
A flower, cut from the garden, adds a nice touch. For extra fun, garnish Mom's plate with photo cutouts of the kids taped or glued onto toothpicks.
>>> Sourcing:
Buy online: Mother's Day Card by scarycarriecreates [etsy.com] – price: $3.75 USD
Buy online: Cooking Owl - Limited Edition Print by barkingbirdart [etsy.com] – price: $9 USD
Buy online: Joy Bed in a Bag [Target] – price: $71.99 - $109.99 USD
Photo credit: French Toasts covered with oatmeal, picture by Kim Vallee – rights reserved
Guest Blogger: Jennifer Mitchell [Design Hole]
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
HOLIDAY
DISHING tips
FAMILY style
posted @ Saturday, May 10, 2008 4:53 PM | Feedback (1)
Tea Forté showed its care for design from the start when they introduced their pyramid shape tea bags. The unique Silken-Tea-Infusers that are individually hand crafted feel luxurious. Many brides and grooms sent a delightful message with them as wedding party favors.
Innovative Ice Tea Pot
With the warm weather, we are longing for iced tea concoctions. Tea Forté Reinvent a classic. I have to agree when their ad says
Fresh and authentic flash-chilled iced teas with a boldly original tableside presentation.
Drinking tea is good for you and makes you feel good. Offer a few moments of relaxation to your mom by giving her this revolutionary brewing pitcher. Operating it is at easy as 1, 2 3.
- Pour boiling water over infuser
- Steep 3 to 5 minutes
- Pour over ice and enjoy!
If your mom likes a hot ice tea, she will probably appreciate the Morehouse Glass. This double-walled glass ensemble keeps your tea hot while remaining cool to the touch. A glass cover keeps your tea hot for a longer period of time.
Stylishly Modern Hot Tea Cup
If your mother is a fan of the Tea Forté, she will appreciate this elegant porcelain tea cup ensemble. Café Cup custom cover reveals the signature leaf and keeps the tea hot while steeping. Imagine serving your tea in those cups at your next dinner party. It is a beautiful sight for the stylish hostess.
>>> Sourcing:
Buy online: Tea Forté Brewing Pitchers - two pitchers and lid – price: $42 USD
Buy online: Morehouse Glass double-walled tea cup by Tea Forté – price: $22 USD
Buy online: Café Cup by Tea Forté – price: $20 USD
Categories:
GIFT ideas
HOLIDAY
TABLEWARE
FAMILY style
posted @ Saturday, April 26, 2008 10:40 PM | Feedback (0)
After beauty products, why not talk going out purses? Some women go crazy for shoes. I enjoy beautiful shoes but I prefer purses.
Every stylish woman should own at least a collection of purses to accessorize with her outfits. As I go to many cocktail events for business and pleasures, evening purses are a must for me.
New Going Out Handbag
My closet will host a new going out handbag soon. I like purses with a personality. Coriander, the latest pattern at Oktak seduced me. I selected the paprika color because bright colors are popular for summer 2008.
I bought my first going out handbag from Oktak last summer. The unique frame purse cleverly integrates the closing mechanism in the handle. I was surprised by how well it works. The design carries a feminine vintage vibe that I enjoy.
Besides style, the ideal night purse is big enough to carry your lipstick, a pen, a coin purse, a cell phone and one key on a key chain. The best one has room for a small camera. It sounds a lot but that it what I typically need when I go out.
Functional and Cute
Mothers can be fashionista too. If you mom harmonizes her handbag to her outfit on a daily basis, simplify her life. Getting her a few pouches for her makeup, pens and papers, store her bills will speed up the transfer of her things. Moreover, everything is easier to find when they are nicely organized.
The medium frame pouch is also available in the new coriander pattern. The frame pouch is perfect for carrying cosmetics, iPod, digital camera, cell phone and everything else that fits in your palm.
The zipper pouches are cute. A nice detail is the two glass beads attached to a leather cord. The eyeglass cases are adorable. I like their retro vibe, definitely designed for a woman.
The small frame pouch can be used as a coin purse or as a jewelry case. This can be handy when you go to the gym. You can create a set by matching some coin purses to a XL frame pouch (clutch) or a frame purse.
The Oktak bags are handmade. A Japanese girl named Aki Takada who lives in New York designed them. Since Oktak produces in small quantity, you will give something special to your mother.
Update May 3, 2008: I received my Paprika Coriander going out bag and it is lovely. I cannot wait to try it out. Great job Aki!
>>> Sourcing:
Buy online: frame going out purses by Oktak – price: $65 USD
Buy online: large zipper pouch - pink flowers on turquoise – price: $19.50 USD
Buy online: medium frame pouch (square) by Oktak - raspberry coriander – price: $29 USD
Buy online: eyeglass case by Oktak - pink blossoms on green – price: $30 USD
Buy online: mini frame pouch - spring blooms on green – price: $22 USD
Categories:
GIFT ideas
HOLIDAY
posted @ Saturday, April 26, 2008 6:34 PM | Feedback (0)
For a few annual celebrations, Sprinkles Cupcakes creates specific designs. These limited edition cupcakes are a quick and chic way to personalize your party or to simply highlight your day. The next four calendar events are in April and May.
Passover – April 19 to 26
Flourless Belgian dark chocolate cake topped with a Madagascar Bourbon vanilla bean glaze. A blue Star of David put the finishing touch to the Passover cupcake design.
Earth Day – April 21 to 25
Like they did in the past with the Pink Ribbon strawberry cupcake, Sprinkles will donate the proceeds of a dedicated cupcake. The proceeds will go to local tree planting and environmental care organizations. To show your support, get a vanilla cupcake with a green tree on the top.
Cinco de Mayo – May 2 to 5
Canadians are less familiar with Cinco de Mayo. Even though it pays tribute to a Mexican historical event, people of all ethnic origins in the United States embrace the celebrations. This is particularly true in areas with a large Mexican population like in California and the Southwest region of the United States.
Cinco de Mayo means 5th of May in English. According to Wikipedia
The holiday commemorates an initial victory of Mexican forces led by General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín over French forces in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.
Sprinkles Cupcakes proposes a stunning Mexican-inspired Choco Loco cupcakes. A patriotic green and red dot decorated the Belgian dark chocolate cake with chocolate and Mexican cinnamon frosting.
MOM Box – May 9 to 11
With four flavors in the box, the Sprinkles daisies and MOM sugar icing decorations will carry a loving message to your mother. There is even a limited edition t-shirt collection for women and babies.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Sprinkles Cupcakes Calendar Collection
Learn more: Sprinkles Cupcakes MOM Apparel
Via: New holiday cupcakes from Sprinkles: Passover, Earth Day, Cinco de Mayo on Cupcakes Take The Cake
Categories:
HOLIDAY
CAKES
posted @ Friday, April 18, 2008 5:37 PM | Feedback (0)
In this fabulous sunny day, I wish to wish to everyone who celebrates it a very Happy Easter! For the rest, I hope you indulge in a nice piece of fine chocolate.
I found the lovely Oeuf Maisonnette Easter Egg at Chocolate Trading Co. UK. It is so cute. The Chocolate Filled French Hens eggs are presented in a genuine egg box, creating a fun but seriously good Easter gift. These eggs are filled with chocolate praline naturally made with cane sugar and Bourbon vanilla.
For my part, I prefer the rich taste of dark chocolate. I am glad that I received a cute, fashionable bunny with a ruffled dress. Ruffles are in this summer by the way.
Enjoy your chocolate treats. Happy Easter!
Sourcing:
Learn more: Chocolate Trading Co. UK
Categories:
HOLIDAY
posted @ Sunday, March 23, 2008 12:01 PM | Feedback (0)
Outstanding flower arrangements fill a room or a table with elegance. The Flower Council of Holland Web site is always a good source of inspiration for floral trends.
What is hot for Spring 2008?
Design trends are global. Floral arrangements follow what we are seeing in fashion and home decor. Grey, whites and happy colors steal the show.
The excellent blog ROOM and Serve showcased yesterday four amazing Easter bouquets. I am showing two of them. The rest are from the Spring 2008 photo gallery. A series of bouquets shows that white provides energy. They are all impressive and inspiring.
Finally, I hold a prejudice against carnations. But looking at these fashionable pink, lilac and green carnation installations, I may have to agree that carnations are in vogue. Look at the step by step instructions to reproduce this sophisticated presentation.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Flower Council of Holland
Via: Inreda med ägg till påsken on ROOM and Serve
Categories:
EVERYDAY
PARTY supplies
HOLIDAY
TRENDS
posted @ Thursday, March 20, 2008 12:39 AM | Feedback (0)
If you have not decided yet what to do for this upcoming Easter, I compile a list of my best posts on the subject. I hope it would help you find the inspiration you are looking for.
Shown here:
More design ideas from this year and last year:
Categories:
HOLIDAY
posted @ Tuesday, March 18, 2008 12:24 AM | Feedback (4)
Typically, that would not be my first choice of vessel. But there is a “je ne sais quoi” that I like about these two collections at Williams-Sonoma.
Strangely while I was assembling my board, I realized that they work together. When you entertain with kids, it feels stylish to integrate children design with fun grown-up patterns as long the two patterns share some commonalities.
How to get the vintage look
The Nostalgic Easter series display a center design inspired by 1920s Easter cards. If you have young children, you can use these all year long because the illustrations carry a children book vibe.
The folkloric design from the 17th century of Provence is draw in richer tones. When you examine Provence closer, you realized that the pattern stays within the same color palette than the Nostalgic Easter collection. Furthermore, the magical forest of castles and animals theme continues the storyline. Provence is ideal for entertaining with kids.
For a vintage European touch nothing beats the white Alfi Thermal Carafes. In production since 1914, this German made carafe will look sharp at your breakfast table. Use this carafe to serve the milk, tea or coffee at the brunch buffet table.
The blue Oval Stoneware Basket, available in 6 colors, is a hot entertaining item. After heating the basket in a 350°F oven for approximately 15 minutes, you tucked inside breads, muffins or croissants so they stay warm at the table.
A rectangular ceramic baker is a must in every kitchen. The ruffled Auberge collection by Emile Henry is cuter than most.
Devilled Egg Platters
If you host a brunch, make sure to prepare deviled eggs. They are making a comeback. The Nostalgic Easter Deviled Egg Platter can safely cradle a dozen deviled eggs or whole hard-boiled eggs.
If you prefer a clean line deviled egg platter, Crate and Barrel carries a minimalist round egg plate. This Crate and Barrel Exclusive can hold 2 dozen eggs.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Set of 4 Nostalgic Easter Plates at Williams-Sonoma – on sale at S28.99 USD
Buy online: Nostalgic Easter Deviled Egg Platter – on sale at S28.99 USD
Buy online: Egg plate at Crate and Barrel – on sale at $19.99 USD
Buy online: Provence Platters at Williams Sonoma – price: $159 small, $199 large
Buy online: Oval Stoneware Basket – price: $49 USD
Buy online: Alfi Thermal Carafes – price: from $179 to $239 USD
Buy online: Emile Henry Ruffled Auberge Rectangular Baker in Dijon – price: small $58, large $64
Categories:
HOLIDAY
KIDS party
TABLEWARE
posted @ Friday, March 14, 2008 2:47 PM | Feedback (0)
This tablescape celebrates the Easter egg from a different perspective. A Sunday brunch with kids calls for a whimsical table. I infused a fresh treatment to a predictable theme. All I had to do was to mix bright colors with uncommon tableware.
Vibrant accent colors
The felt Chicken cozies are the stars of my table. Denise from Black Eiffel spots those cute ones on the April issue of Martha Stewart Living magazine. Make those in two to four colors since you want to inject a punch of color to an otherwise white theme.
Once the cozies are removed, the colorful double old-fashioned and the highballs of the Rustica Barware collection maintain the vibrant pop of color to the table.
Designed by Yousuke Shimizu, these spectacular shallow bamboo bowls would be perfect as serving bowls for the cereals, the oatmeal and any other dry food. The bamboo bowls combine the 2 key design elements.
Oval tableware
Planet dinnerware exhibits an oval shape with unique slanted rims. This everyday series contains a dinner plate, a salad plate and a bowl. I prefer to buy my every day coffee cups separately; often of a different style. At this low price, you can indulge and buy a new dinnerware set for your Easter brunch. And you would not worry about the kids using your china.
Centerpiece
A simple green apple display is all you need. Whatever you choose, keep it simple. I saw a pretty green apple arrangement when I went to the spa of the Fairmount Sonoma Mission Inn but it seems that I forgot to take a picture. Basically, you pile a bunch of green apples in a chopped top-down pyramidal shape. Start with a rectangular base of 7 to 10 apples long by 3 to 4 apples wide. Reduce the perimeter as you move up for 3 to 4 rows. You will get enough apples for everyone can eat an apple during or after the meal.
Sourcing:
Buy online: planet dinnerware at cb2 – price: $3.95 to $5.95
Buy online: Rustica Barware at Pottery Barn – price: $45 to $54 for a set of 6
Via: Cool Chick published on Black Eiffel
Via: Yousuke Shimizu published on fleshly{blended}
Via: Roundup: Granny Smith Fruit Bowls published on Apartment Therapy New York
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
HOLIDAY
KIDS party
TABLEWARE
posted @ Thursday, March 13, 2008 1:34 AM | Feedback (1)
You do not need a design that screams Easter to look festive. Since the typical pastel Easter decorations are not my style, I created a series of hip and fun Easter tabletops. I will be presenting two tabletops today in two separate posts.
What is great for you is that my Easter tables featured tableware items that you can reuse for any occasions. In fact, the design comes from the shapes and the patterns of things you need to eat, not from a bunch of superficial accessories. It is simple and beautiful.
The birth of a concept
Thinking outside the box allows you to find fresh concepts. I usually start by analyzing the key elements of the celebration. The idea is to approach an event design from a different perspective. Basically, I look at at the Easter brunch party this way:
- Easter is a festive, family gathering that occurs in Spring
- Hosting an Easter party means planning several activities for kids and a table where the children will feel comfortable
- The egg and the bunny are the more popular symbols associated with Easter.
Let’s review my floral Easter table. Every since, I saw the beautiful Atelier Lzc Party Napkins at Rose and Radish, I wanted to use it. My jumping point was this cute Black Floral Salt & Pepper Set by Sagaform. I selected this inexpensive salt and pepper set for the egg shape. When I put the napkins with the salt and pepper set, I found my theme. The rest is a matter of creating harmony and a focal point.
The cocoon-shaped soup tureen, the ice cream bowls and blue condiment bowl exhibit fun and comfort. Two terms associated with family life. The ice cream bowl by Miriam Mirri is huge so prepare one bowl per family or couple. Adding a communal course to your meal goes with the spirit of Easter.
The story goes that Miriam Mirri designed the spoon as a heart so that you can eat ice cream from one side of the spoon without touching to the other side. I am not convinced but it is a cute marketing story.
Finishing touches
The Coral Dinnerware shows that you do not need to go neutral to look organic. The style would harmonize well with any time of food. You can put it on your every day table, use it for casual entertaining or reserve it for special-event dining occasions. The choice is yours.
The Coral series has only a 7-inch bowl and a 9-inch plate. To complete your place setting, pair the Coral dishes with solid color dinnerware either in black, red or white. I would use a blue tablecloth to highlight the dinnerware. You want the Coral dinnerware to be the focal point of the tabletop.
The illustration of the Poppi Art invite links everything together. It is the theme that is fun yet sophisticated. I presented it as an Easter tabletop but really this tabletop design is fit for any occasions.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Poppi Art notecards at Whimsy – price: $12 for a pack of 10
Buy online: Atelier Lzc Party Napkins at Rose and Radish – price: $13 for a pack of 20
Buy online: Soup Tureen by Steffen Schmelling for Ego at Unica Home – price: 120 USD
Buy online: Coral Dinnerware Series by Jill Fenichell for Bongenre at Unica Home – price: bowl $8, plate: $10 USD
Buy online: Big Love Ice Cream Bowl and Spoon by Alessi at Unica Home – price: $45 USD
Buy online: Nio Blue Glass Condiment Bowl by Oliver Hemming at Unica Home – price: $45 USD
Buy online: Sagaform Black Floral Salt & Pepper Set at Wrapables – price: $9.95 USD
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
HOLIDAY
KIDS party
TABLEWARE
posted @ Wednesday, March 12, 2008 1:36 PM | Feedback (2)
If you are still looking for ideas on how to style your Easter brunch, I will share several design ideas this week. So do not worry.
The Fashionable Blue and Yellow
I am starting with two decoration ideas and the best looking desserts from Martha Stewart Living. Get inspired by these crafty projects and recipes to create your own version this Easter.
If you read my posts last week, you spot the resemblances with the Spring 2008 color combinations. Since the pictures were taken a couple years ago, simply adjust the hues to fit into the 2008 color trend.
Blue and yellow mixed with white is so far my favorite palette for Easter 2008. I am assembling my own Easter tabletop the one I will use in real life. Mine may eclipse the blue and yellow scheme; we will see when I am done.
For now, let's go back to what Martha Stewart has the best to offer in my opinion this Easter. Like I said before, these are old projects from Martha Stewart. They still look interesting today.
Easter Table Decorations
Everyone can easily make these fuzzy Candy Nests. They look so cute. You can reuse the design to dress up your sugar and milk serving set. Brown and white sugar cubes will look better with this scheme.
The early spring tulips and daffodils symbolize Easter. It is simple to decorate a console table or you buffet table by disposing several eggcup bouquets on a tiered cake stand. Step by steps instructions for the Easter Tiered Bouquets are published on Martha Stewart’s Web site.
Take advantage of the white and yellow rage to design a stylish yet simple table top. Lay a lemon yellow tablecloth as your basis so your white dinnerware will pop up. Or you can be hipper and display the orange Chilewich Woven Lattice placemats plus the table runner. You probably own all the required dinnerware, except for the white egg cups which are widely available.
Easter Dessert Recipes
The food presentation of the Rich Chocolate Cake with Ganache Frosting and Truffle-Egg Nest is critical to get the full impact. You can find sets of brown salad plates at Rosanna or for a more affordable option, shop at Target.
Chocolate Egg in blue colored shell is a stylish idea to serve homemade chocolate. I suggest making these Chocolate Eggs as your party favors. Wrap them with clear cellophane to showcase them. Do not forget to install a nice personalized gift tag on your package with a stylish blue or white ribbon.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Orange Chilewich Woven Lattice Table Linens – starting at $20 per placemat
Buy online: Set of 2 White Porcelain Egg Cups at Kitchen Kapers - $4.99 for a pair
Buy online: Dinner Party Plates at Rosanna – price: $41.25 for a set of 4
Buy online: Coco Seal Salad Plate at Target – price: $24.99 USD for a set of 6
RELATED POSTS:
+ Egg candle holders by Michelle Mason
+ A more natural take on the Easter Eggs
+ Bunny shaped napkins at your Easter brunch
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
GIFT ideas
HOLIDAY
posted @ Tuesday, March 11, 2008 1:34 PM | Feedback (5)
This post started because I saw the most wonderful dishing of picked eggs photographed in the March 2008 edition of EnRoute magazine. I forgot my copy on the plane so I will describe it for you. And I promise to show you my own version before next Tuesday.
You may be aware that pickled eggs are back in style. But the current version are far more sophisticated than boiled eggs in vinegar jars available in cheap deli restaurants.
These pickled eggs are subtle in taste, often done with organic eggs, duck eggs and quail eggs. You can serve them resting on a nest of watercress or mache salad.
Farm 255, a restaurant that seeks to reconnect food to its roots & people to their food in Athens, Georgia currently serves pickled eggs as appetizers with olive oil, dill, cracked pepper and fennel. Yum!
Nature inspired Easter Tabletop
Forget the artificial color Easter eggs and go for a more natural look. I really enjoy wrique did by dying boiled eggs with onion skins. It really looks like a piece of art. Instead of the basket, use a grayish or brownish earthenware small bowl, a rice bowl for example.
Wrique explains steps by steps how to make these stunning Easter Eggs on Instructables. Wrique provides useful tricks. Did you know that rubbing some oil at the end gives the eggs a nice shine and seals their pores which should help them fresh longer?
Harmonize it with an organic dinnerware like this handmade matte olive Coutour dinerware set available at Viva Terra. The plank is a beautiful touch. Unfortunately, this one is too narrow and too high to feel comfortable while eating. Spring calls for a punch of colors. Therefore, I would place colored flatware with either yellow, orange or pink handles.
Add more colors through your centerpieces
Display a snakelike line of the new Tiny Tin Edible Flowers by BloemBox. And let your guests brings back home their own after the meal. Each tin contains edible flower seeds. Alternate the Edible Tiny Tins with the Habitat Hummingbird Garden to add movements. Each Habitat box contains three 5’ biodegradable, plantable tissue paper seed ribbons, one of each nectar-rich variety with planting instructions.
These elements would create an Easter tabletop that is out of the ordinary.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Easter Eggs Dyed With Onion Skins by wrique
Buy online: Matte Olive Contour Dinnerware – price: $129 for a 16-piece set
Buy online: Habitat Hummingbird Garden – price: $99 for 6 boxes
Buy online: Tiny Tin Edible Flowers – price: $36 for 6 tins
RELATED POSTS:
+ Bunny shaped napkins at your Easter brunch
+ Dressing up your Easter brunch by Colin Cowie
+ Grown ups tabletop - Easter's Inspiration Board Part 2
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
HOLIDAY
DISHING tips
TABLEWARE
PARTY favors
posted @ Wednesday, March 05, 2008 1:27 AM | Feedback (1)
To conclude my series on Valentine’s Day this year, I thought of leaving you with inspirational shots. I will also share with my plans to celebrate Valentine's Day.
Food
The food is from the La Porte restaurant on Saint-Laurent Street in Montreal. I took these pictures last October. The oysters tasting plate was amazing.
Restaurant La Porte is a story of love. First of all this is a small French restaurant run by a couple. Thierry et Pascale Rouyé had a restaurant in France before they moved to Canada. These long-time restaurateurs have transmitted their love affairs to their son who is a sous-cook under his Chef father.
The restaurant is named La Porte because they imported a stunning wooden door that they saw while visiting Morocco. It is the focal point of their restaurant.
Finally the attention to details and simply hearing them talking about their dishes indicate that food is a true passion for them. I recommend you try La Porte the next time you fancy upscale French cooking.
Champagne
As a truly glamorous girl, I am fond of Champagne. What happens with Champagne is that there are a lot of smaller producers. The average consumer does not realize it because the government regulated liquor stores typically carry the big names. When we went to Los Angeles, we bought a bottle from a brand that is not available here. It is really interesting to experience the differences in bubbles and taste.
I did not know at the time that a select a champagne from a champagne house that was born out of the wedding of Nicolas François Billecart and Elizabeth Salmon.
Tonight, we will drink a 1998 Cuvée Elizabeth Salmon Brut Rosé from the Billecart-Salmon champagne house. Just reading this poetry from Billecart-Salmon built up my expectations for tonight:
This vintage stands out for its amazing coppery-pink glints underscored by an outstanding string of pearls and a lasting but fine and delicate mousse.
How do I plan to celebrate Valentine Day with my prince?
Our vintage champagne bottle can accompany a huge array of superb dishes from poultry to a delicate red fruits dessert. I will stop by the French bakery this afternoon to pick up a red fruit mousse cake. My husband and I will pick up sushi on our way back from work. I will lay down large cushions around the coffee table and we will eat in front of the fireplace.
Talking on my prince charming, I saw this cute Frog Prince at Red Envelop. My husband has never been an ugly frog but I never imagined when I first met him that he would be The Love of My Life. A long story so it would be for another time.
I wish you and your loved ones a very Happy Valentine's Day! Share the love. It is free and it makes the world a better place to live.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Restaurant La Porte
Learn more: Billecart-Salmon
Buy online: Frog Prince at red Envelop – price: $58 USD
Categories:
HOLIDAY
DINING out
posted @ Thursday, February 14, 2008 12:48 PM | Feedback (0)
If you are still looking for inspiration to compose your mini menu on Valentine’s Day, I spotted some pretty romantic recipes on Tastespotting.
Start or end the day with a Hot Chocolate
If you are in New York City this February, schedule a stop at for their famous Hot Chocolate Festival. I wrote it down on my itinerary. Daily flavors are offered on top of the regular blend.
Today, it’s Darkest Dark Hot Chocolate. On the 14th, it’s the Love Potion Hot Chocolate. While a Caramel Hot Chocolate and Chili Pepper Hot Chocolate will be served on February 16th and the 17th respectively. The City Bakery sells its hot chocolates in a shot size at $2 but you can savor a full-sized cup for $4.50. Add 50 cents for a marshmallow.
Otherwise, make your own hot chocolate by melting small pieces of fine chocolate (the darker the better for me) in warmed milk, then sugar and add a dash of vanilla and a cayenne pepper. You can try the Hot Hot Cocoa recipe by Michael Smith.
Inspiration for a meal
For a stress free solution, prepare your favorite food but add an element of surprise in the food presentation. To jazz things up, add one new recipe like this lovely Broccoflower Soup from La Tartine Gourmande.
Cupcakes and sweets
I saw Chef Michael Smith made similar tuxedo chocolate dipped strawberries last week. It looks so easy when done by an expert. You will find on Simply Recipes a step by step guide to make your own.
For desserts, why not serve homemade cupcakes? It is strange for me to say but I do like the way these fondant roses nicely decorate these cupcakes. The technique used seems simple. I guess that crafty beginners can probably give it a try. The rose cupcakes were made by the talented woman behind Bakerella, a blog full of stylish baked goodies.
Otherwise, I find you a simpler cupcake design on The Recipe Girl. In fact, she reproduced a recipes from Better Homes and Garden's Magazine.
Everything except roses for me
By the way, I do not like roses. My husband knows me well enough to grasp that fact since the beginning of our relationship. He showed originality by giving me divine bouquets other than the trivial red rose dozens on Valentine’s Day or at any other moment. So if you are a man, I suggest you ask your florist for something new this Valentine. Ask for a creative arrangement that reflects the personality of the one you love.
Sourcing on Tastespotting:
Hot chocolate festival spotted by Melinda2
Luscious chocolate strawberries spotted by spunpuppy
Broccoflower Soup spotted by GingerbreadGirl03
Bakerella's cupcakes for Valentine spotted by GingerbreadGirl03
Red Velvet Cupcakes spotted by RecipeGirl
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
HOLIDAY
TRENDS
CAKES
posted @ Monday, February 11, 2008 9:38 PM | Feedback (0)
Even more than red for me, chocolate is the most associate word to Valentine’s Day. That is how I got the idea to set up a brown tablescape. And I forced myself to find beautiful brown dinnerware.
Traditional look
I want to find something that is stylish and will make a statement. The traditional hand-painted Ludovica dinnerware is an exclusivity of Horchow. The style testifies the Italian charms. The beauty of the set is enhanced by the Italian pewter chargers.
The Bavaria model from the Italian brand MEPRA is a classic flatware with just the right amount of decorative elements. If you prefer something a little bit more ornate, the Medici Flatware displayed on the Ludovica saucer looks amazing. The cylindrical, beautifully detailed pewter handles make a statement.
Contemporary look
Since I selected recipes by David Rocca, a more hip dinnerware set seems right. The Cocoa Blossom by Mikasa has all the qualities I was looking for. The color scheme appeals to men. The lush blooms feel young yet refined. And I like the variations in the patterns between the various plates, bowls and serve ware.
The unique handles shaped like freshly cut stems of Frond by Nambé complements the concept behind Cocoa Blossom.
Slide a place card into the grooves on top of these Indian style napkin holders for a clever stylish flair. Waterford kept the ornamentation simple enough so you can dress up any modern, casual dinnerware set with these napkin holders / placecard holders.
Chocolate recipes for Valentine’s Day
It is fashionable to cook an entire meal with chocolate. Although, I think it would be a chocolate overload. So what I suggest is to serve chocolate at the start and the end of the meal. And swing other flavors for the entrée.
I suggested two recipes from the adorable David Rocca because his recipes are easy to prepare and delicious. If you never try meat with chocolate before, serve Spezzatino Di Manzo Al Cioccolato as a warm appetizer. The Chocolate Eggplant is supposed to be a classic snack in Italy. Kids go nuts about it. If you want to be less adventurous, simply make homemade crepes topped with Nutella.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Ludovica Dinnerware at Horchow – price: $629.90 USD for 16-piece service
Buy online: Arte Italica Pewter Chargers at Horchow – price: $220 USD
Buy online: Bavaria flatware by MEPRA
Buy online: Medici Flatware at Horchow – price: $150 USD for 5-piece place setting
Buy online: Mikasa Cocoa Blossom Dinnerware Collection at Macy' s – on sale: $42.95 USD for 5-piece place setting
Buy online: Nambé Frond flatware at Macy' s - price: $55 USD for 5-piece place setting
Buy online: Michael Aram for Waterford Jaipur Napkin Rings/Place Holders at Macy' s - price: $80 USD for a set of 5
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
FOOD + drinks
HOLIDAY
posted @ Thursday, February 07, 2008 8:44 PM | Feedback (0)
February 7, 2008 marks the start of the Year of the Rat. It is also the beginning of the Chinese New Year celebrations.
If you have nothing planned for tonight, there is still plenty of time to improvise with the quick entertaining guide I wrote for the Web site of Food Network Canada.
About the decor
I illustrated some of the key elements of the party so you know what to look for to design your décor. I took the picture of the red lanterns while I was visiting Las Vegas two weeks ago. There are the kind of lanterns you should look for.
If you live in a town with a Chinatown neighborhood, you will have no problems finding the red lanterns, a trio of spring couplets or the red envelops for the pocket money. Wrap your party favors in red packet or small bags.
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)
Something we need a little help for inspirations to prepare our menu. In February, the team at Dish Cooking Studio can help you solve your Valentine’s Day meal dilemma. These are activities you and your lover can enjoy together.
Get Ready for Valentine’s Day
On February 8, Brooke Neveu and her fiancé Jesse, who is an Executive Sous-Chef of the Four Seasons Hotel, Toronto will prepare a romantic meal that you can replicate at home for the big night. This is your chance to learn new cooking tricks and recipes.
There is a 2 for 1 promotion of Get Ready for Valentine’s Day, call to book your seats. Go with a girlfriend. This way, you can help each other if you encounter a problem duplicating the menu.
Couples in the Kitchen
Instead of going to a crowded restaurant this year, why not do something different? You will still enjoy great food and wine during the evening. It is just that it would be a more intimate atmosphere with no work required. This event will be on February 14, 2008 from 6:30 PM to 9 PM at Dish Cooking Studio. It leaves you plenty of time for romance thereafter.
Valentine’s Day recipes
No time for a class or you still need a little of encouragement, I found on Dish Cooking Studio Web site a Valentine’s Day menu for a previous event. Check out the February 13, 2006 - Valentine's Experience with Joshna. I suggest you try the Spiced Beef Tenderloin with a Cocoa Crust.
Founded by Trish Magwood, Dish Cooking Studio is located in Toronto.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Get Ready for Valentine’s Day at Dish Cooking Studio – price: $135 CAD
Learn more: Couples in the Kitchen at Dish Cooking Studio – price: $135 CAD
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
HOLIDAY
posted @ Wednesday, January 30, 2008 12:19 PM | Feedback (0)
Made from English fine bone china, these egg shape candle holders are lovely and modern. They are sold in pair, one medium and one large egg, nicely packaged in a recycled board gift box.
UK artist Michelle Mason designed her latest creations so you can watch the wax drip like egg yolk. It is a fact that the British people like to eat soft-boiled eggs on the morning.
I like the romantic idea but not the wax stain on my tablecloth. If you are like me, you got two choices:
- Buy no dripping candles but you lose the concept
- Rest the pair of egg candle holders on a tray or a wood board
I prefer the second option.
Decorating your home at Easter or for a brunch
Better yet, a single tulip or a branch fits into the hole. So get a few pairs. Mix and match candles, empty eggs and plants to create a dramatic effect in your home.
Having small vases like those is practical because you can easily move them around to suit your mood and spatial needs. These would look amazing for a brunch. Imagine them at a key element of your Easter tablescape.
Customers outside UK should order the Michelle Mason products from Hidden Art Shop since these accept International orders. Several retailers across UK carry some or all products by Michelle Mason, look at her Web site to locate shops.
About Michelle Mason
Founded in 2006, Michelle Mason is a UK-based lifestyle brand of contemporary interior products. Michelle studied illustrations at Chelsea College of Art. She holds a Communication Design Master Degree.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Egg Candleholder at Hidden Art – price: £69.75 the set
Around Britain: UK stockists of Michelle Mason
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
HOME decor
HOLIDAY
posted @ Friday, January 25, 2008 3:10 PM | Feedback (6)
The love in your life deserves something unique. So start with a crafted card from artists on Etsy. I compiled 4 cute Valentine stationery that fit the bill.
First, Love Birds Valentine’s Day Note Cards is a set of 6 note cards designed by Jennifer of Turtle Papers. Lovely! Comes with 6 chartreuse envelops and costs $9. Charming zoo animals, origami cranes and delicious cupcakes are typical topics.
Love is in the Air brought up memories of a popular disco song. I am singing it as I am writing this post. The picture refers to many years before. The orange caught my eye and I like the vintage feeling. Designed by Australian-born Helen of Pepperina Press, Live is in the Air displays eye-catching shades of strawberry silhouette and orange lettering.
By the girls behind the blog Fabulous Finds, these romantic Parisian Chic Red tags are a limited Valentine edition. They are perfect to wrap your gift or as place holders hanging on the chair. Sold in a pack of 4 for $4.25.
Feeling Sassy? Show it with this retro card. This comic illustration was created by Earmark Invitations of San Diego. All their stationery is printed on recycled paper.
Sourcing:
Discover: Blog of Fabulous Finds
Discover: Blog of Pepperina Press
Categories:
PAPER goods
HOLIDAY
posted @ Thursday, January 17, 2008 11:02 PM | Feedback (1)
January 6 officially marks the end of the Christmas celebrations. You should take down all your Holiday decorations by this date.
Epiphany is referred to as Three Kings Day for commemorating the visit of Caspar, Melchior and Balthazar, the three Magi.
But really, everyone can host an Epiphany party since beside its origin no religious ceremony is involved on the celebrations as I know it. And the Three Kings Day customs are fun and simple!
What is a traditional Three Kings Day party?
To make a story short, the tradition goes like that. You host a feast and serve a cake for dessert with a hidden dried bean inside a King cake or the Galette des Rois (puff pastry with an almond paste). You served a piece of cake to everyone. The person who found the Bean is elected King or Queen for the day. The custom implies giving a gift and a head crown to the winner. The winner elects his Queen or her King.
I recalled when I was a kid, I looked forward for Epiphany. I was either invited to a party or my mother would throw a party with my friends and cousins. It is not j