Browsing Category

EVENTS + PARTIES

EVENTS + PARTIES, FOOD + DRINK, HOME ENTERTAINING

The 3 Essentials To Create A Romantic Valentine’s Day Dinner At Home

the-3-essentials-to-create-a-romantic-valentines-day-dinner-at-home

Valentine’s Day is a special occasion celebrated by couples around the world. It’s a time to show love and affection to that special someone in your life. One of the best ways to do this is by creating a romantic dinner at home. 

If you’re having trouble finding the right Valentine’s Day gift for your special person, then think about creating a memory with a romantic dinner. To make it special, you have to take some measures that elevate it beyond a regular dinner at home. In this article, we will go over several tips to help you pull off a romantic Valentine’s day dinner. 

1 – Planning the menu

The success of the night hinges on getting the menu right. You want it to be elegant and special, but also make sure it is achievable based on your skills and time you have to dedicate to cooking. 

Starting with appetizers, light and aphrodisiac-focused starters can set the mood. Think of dishes like oysters or a shrimp cocktail. These choices are not just delicious but also not difficult to prepare.

For the main course, you want a dish that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. An A5 Wagyu steak is a perfect choice. It’s luxurious and full of flavor, and it doesn’t need complicated seasoning or cooking methods to shine. Pair it with a side of grilled asparagus or a light salad, and you have a meal that’s sure to impress.

To finish the meal, something with chocolate is a must. A great way to impress is by serving up a chocolate fondue with strawberries to dip. 

2 – Set the mood

Creating a romantic vibe for the evening is critical. You can’t just have the atmosphere be normal. Start with the lighting. Dim, warm lighting or the soft glow of candlelight can instantly transform a room into a cozy and romantic setting. 

Music is also an important factor when creating the right atmosphere. Choose a playlist that both you and your partner enjoy and that also creates a vibe. Whether it’s soft jazz, classical melodies, or your shared favorite love songs, the right music in the background will complement the evening perfectly.

The table setting is where you can really add a personal touch. Some freshly picked flowers and fine silver dinnerware can make a huge difference. 

3 – Try cooking together

Cooking together can be an intimate part of your Valentine’s Day celebration. When you cook with your partner, you’re creating memories and strengthening your bond. The key is enjoying each other’s company and being playful while you create a memorable meal.

When choosing recipes to prepare together, look for recipes that allow both of you to be involved without being overly complex. Simple pasta dishes, homemade pizzas, or even baking a dessert together can be great choices. These types of recipes can still be creative but they’re also forgiving enough for both cooking novices and experts.

0 comment
Share:
EVENTS + PARTIES

Top Tips For A Rustic Wedding Celebration

top-tips-for-a-rustic-wedding-celebration

When the glittering ballrooms, crystal chandeliers, and modern aesthetics don’t quite resonate with your vision of a perfect wedding, it might be time to consider a more earthy, natural approach. Rustic weddings, with their blend of simplicity and charm, have a timeless allure that invites couples to celebrate their love amidst nature. These weddings are about authenticity, representing a genuine connection between two people, the earth, and the raw beauty of love itself. 

If you’re leaning towards this kind of intimate celebration, here’s a list of top tips to make your rustic wedding the dreamy event you’ve always wanted.

1. Choose A Magical Venue

A rustic wedding begins with the right venue. Think barns, farmhouses, vineyards, or even a picturesque meadow. While selecting the perfect spot, pay attention to the natural surroundings. Large trees, open fields, and even a nearby stream can add an enchanted feel to your celebration.

One logistical aspect that often gets overlooked is the provision for restrooms, especially if your chosen venue is quite remote. Integrating an outdoor toilet can ensure your guests’ comfort without compromising on the rustic ambiance. Opt for high-quality, well-decorated portable restrooms that match the theme of your wedding.

2. Incorporate Natural Elements

Utilize the bounty of nature in your decor. Think wooden signs, burlap table runners, and centerpieces made from wildflowers. Instead of traditional vases, use mason jars, vintage cans, or even carved-out logs. Incorporate elements like pinecones, twigs, and dried herbs to give an authentic rustic touch.

3. Vintage Is Gold

Rustic and vintage often go hand-in-hand. Incorporate heirlooms or flea market finds into your decor. Vintage furniture pieces, like an old desk for your signing table or antique lace as part of your table settings, can add a unique and personal touch to your celebration.

4. Light Up With Fairy Lights

As the sun sets, allow your venue to sparkle under the soft glow of fairy lights. Whether draped over trees, strung up in the barn, or wound around beams, these tiny lights can transform your venue into a magical wonderland. Complement these with candles in mason jars or lanterns scattered around the venue.

5. Comfort Food With A Twist

The essence of a rustic wedding is often reflected best in the food you serve. Think hearty meals, like pot roasts, grilled vegetables, homemade bread, and pies. But don’t be afraid to add a gourmet twist to these classics. Perhaps a rosemary-infused roast or lavender lemonade?

6. Dress The Part

Your attire should reflect the theme. For brides, consider a flowing gown with lace details. Forego the high heels for vintage boots or ballet flats. Grooms can look dashing in tweed suits or even suspenders and bow ties. 

Bridesmaids in mismatched dresses and groomsmen in relaxed, but coordinated attire can complete the look.

7. DIY Stations

To involve your guests and make the celebration more interactive, set up DIY stations. This could be a corner where guests can make their own flower crowns or a booth for personalizing wedding favors. Not only does this add a personal touch to your wedding, but it also provides entertainment for your guests.

8. Don’t Forget The Music

While a DJ might not fit the rustic theme, a live band, especially one that plays folk or country music, can set the right mood. Alternatively, consider an acoustic guitarist or a fiddler to serenade your guests as they celebrate under the stars.

9. Handwritten Touches

In our digital age, handwritten notes have a charm of their own. From your invitations to the menu cards and place settings, handwritten elements can make your guests feel special and appreciated.

10. Embrace Imperfections

The beauty of a rustic wedding is in its authenticity. Not everything needs to be perfectly matched or coordinated. Embrace the imperfections, whether it’s in the mismatched chairs, the wildflowers that choose their own place to bloom, or the unexpected rain shower. After all, it’s these unique moments that create memories.

In Conclusion

A rustic wedding celebration is a reflection of pure, unadulterated love. It’s about returning to the basics, being one with nature, and celebrating love in its rawest form. As you embark on this beautiful journey, remember to make it your own. 

It’s your day, your love story, and your chance to create everlasting memories. Embrace the rustic charm, and your wedding will not only be memorable but also deeply personal and heartwarming.

0 comment
Share:
COOKING + BAKING, EVENTS + PARTIES, HOME ENTERTAINING, OUTDOORS

The 4 Ways To Set Up The Ultimate
Outdoor Kitchen

4-ways-to-set-up-the-ultimate-outdoor-kitchen

Your home is your oasis and the best place to escape from the pressures of the outside world. When you have your home set up just right, you can close the door behind you and enjoy life exactly how you want to. One way to set your home up to be the ultimate escape is to have an outdoor kitchen.

When you want to host the ultimate barbecue, having an outdoor kitchen makes a huge difference. Everybody will have their own idea of what makes the perfect outdoor kitchen but there are some fundamentals to adhere to. In this article, we will go over several ways that you can set one up to be your own personal oasis for the summer and beyond. 

1 – Choose the location

The area of the yard where you put your kitchen is important. If your space is limited you may be constrained to only one area where you have to make it work no matter what. If you have plenty of space you have to evaluate the options so you can make sure the spot you pick is ideal.

The ideal location should be easily accessible from the house, yet far enough from open flames and combustible materials. A shaded area, preferably with natural protection from the wind, will provide a comfortable outdoor cooking and dining experience.

There should also be enough space where residential concrete contractors can come in and pour a foundation for a patio for the kitchen. This will allow you to set it up in a semi-permanent way. This gives you a base on which you can put a grill or pizza oven and even seating and tables. 

2 – Appliances

When you’re putting together an outdoor kitchen, it’s crucial to choose the right appliances and gear to make your cooking and dining area fully functional. Some essentials for an outdoor kitchen include a grill, a sink, a fridge, and storage cabinets.

As you pick out your appliances and equipment, think about factors like size, quality, and how long they’ll last. They need to be tough enough to handle outdoor conditions like rain, wind, and heat. Stainless steel appliances and equipment are a popular option because they’re durable and can stand up to the elements.

Consider safety when choosing appliances and equipment for your outdoor kitchen. For instance, gas grills should come with an automatic shut-off valve in case there’s a gas leak, and any electrical parts should be properly grounded.

3 – Get the lighting right

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting up an outdoor kitchen. Not only does it add to the ambiance of the space, but it also ensures safety while cooking and dining in the evening. For your outdoor kitchen, consider different types of lighting, such as task lighting, ambient lighting, and accent lighting.

Place task lighting where you’ll be preparing and cooking food, like above the grill and sink. Use ambient lighting to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and accent lighting to draw attention to design features like plants or architectural elements.

Electrical considerations are also vital when planning an outdoor kitchen. A licensed electrician should install outdoor electrical outlets and wiring to guarantee safety. Additionally, ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) should be installed to protect against electric shocks in damp areas.

4 – Storage and organization

One thing that prevents outdoor kitchens from being used more often is convenience. If you have to run back and forth between the inside kitchen and the one outdoors, the hassle will make you less likely to want to cook there. When you are designing your outdoor kitchen make sure to have storage and organization a priority. 

A well-organized kitchen not only makes cooking and dining more enjoyable but also ensures that everything is easily accessible and within reach. As you plan your storage and organization system, think about the size and number of cabinets and drawers you’ll need. Consider the types of foods you are most likely to cook and it will become clear what kind of storage you need. 

Choose weather-resistant materials like stainless steel or teak wood for cabinets and drawers to guarantee durability and a long life. Design your storage areas to keep items tidy and easy to access, such as using pull-out drawers for pots and pans or spice racks for seasonings.

To make the most of your storage space, try incorporating multi-functional pieces like an outdoor kitchen island with a built-in fridge or storage cabinets. This not only gives you extra storage but also creates a central spot for cooking and dining.

0 comment
Share:
EVENTS + PARTIES, HOLIDAYS, HOME ENTERTAINING

Four Ways to Transform Your Home for a Holiday Get-Together 

ways-to-transform-your-home-for-a-holiday-gathering

Hosting during the holidays is fun and exciting. You gather all your closest friends and family and serve them good food and drinks to celebrate the season. It doesn’t come without some type of planning stress though. You have to clean your home, plan a menu, and make sure your space is ready to accommodate company. 

No need to worry, these ideas will help you prepare your home for the ultimate holiday get-together, plus they won’t cost you a fortune and your guests will surely be wowed. 

1. Decorate Your Entryway

When guests arrive at your home, the first thing they see will be the exterior of your house. If you can, decorate with Christmas lights, and add lanterns along the walkway to the door. Illuminate your front door with a light, and consider adding a wreath, trees, or other holiday decorations that are fit for outside. Your guests will appreciate the festive touch, and will get them excited for the festivities ahead! 

In the entryway, make sure you have a spot for guests to place their shoes and jackets. Add holiday scents with candles, pine cones, or balsam. A warm greeting for your guests will start your holiday get-together off on the right note.

2. Create a Cozy Kitchen 

The kitchen is where a lot of the prep work and the serving will most likely take place. You want it to feel warm, but also set up accordingly to make cooking efficient. Start by decorating with garland and lights around the windows, and add small holiday details like dish towels, a Christmas kitchen rug, and small decorations on the windowsill to tie everything together. If you have a coffee or hot cocoa bar, add Christmas mugs and signs. A unique idea is to create a garland with dried fruit for a fun and festive decoration! 

If you have a kitchen island and plan to do a lot of hosting in that space, this might be a good time to update the lighting fixtures in your kitchen. The right lighting will enhance the mood and create a welcoming atmosphere. If your kitchen does not have an island, consider renovating to add one. An island helps with cooking and creates a space for your guests to gather. 

If you plan to make larger home updates before your holiday get-together, have a plan of what you want to do and create a budget. Utilize store sales, and coupons, and stick to your shopping list. Research credit cards with cash-back programs or consider using the equity in your home by taking just the funds you need with a HELOC. This will allow you to make the updates you need without messing up your credit.

3. Plan Table Settings 

If you are just hosting drinks and appetizers for your holiday get-together, set up the food and beverages where it is easily accessible like the kitchen or dining room. Make sure to have adequate seating for guests. Also, purchase festive napkins, and label any food or drinks being served. This is a great opportunity to set up a drink station where guests can make their own beverages as they wish. 

If you are hosting a full dinner, you have lots of flexibility in how you can decorate your table. Make your guests feel special by personalizing each setting with a name card, cute decorations, and a small gift they can take home with them. Some ideas are hot cocoa, a personalized tree ornament, or chocolates. 

Just like in the kitchen, you want to have an atmosphere that is inviting and warm. Add candles, lights, or even a small holiday tree to the dining room. Try to pick a theme and stick to specific elements of the colors and design. Popular holiday themes are evergreen, reindeer, farmhouse, and plaid.     

4. Design a relaxing seating area

The food and drinks you serve may be the highlight of your holiday get-together, but having a space for guests to sit back and relax post-meal is equally important. If you plan on gathering in your living room, rearrange the furniture to maximize space. Add extra chairs or ottomans for guests to sit on.

Make sure to have side tables and coasters around your home for people to set down their drinks. If you plan on playing group games or having a present exchange, make sure your tree is the focal point and place the seating around it. A few fun entertainment ideas are a white elephant gift exchange, holiday trivia, or Christmas charades.

If you have guests that will be staying with you after the holiday get-together, make sure to have your guest space prepared with fresh linens and towels. Incorporate some Christmas decorations in your guest room to help make them feel at home. 

Being the host of your friends and family’s holiday get-together can be a lot of work, but it is worth it when you see all your loved ones celebrating and having a good time. By following these ideas and taking a few extra steps to make your home comfortable and accommodating to guests, you will no doubt be voted as the best holiday host! 

0 comment
Share:
EVENTS + PARTIES, HOME ENTERTAINING

Summer Wedding? Make the most of it!

summer-wedding-make-the-most-of-it

Many people dream of a summer wedding; it seems to be the ideal time to get married and to enjoy the day to the utmost. The last thing you want to do is to miss out on anything that could make your special day even more special, so here are some hints, tips, and ideas about how to really make the most of a summer wedding. 

Release Butterflies 

One thing that abounds in summer is butterflies – they are beautiful, particularly varieties like the painted ladies that look absolutely stunning fluttering about in the bright blue sky. If you are having a summer wedding, then you can also have a butterfly release that will look amazing in your photographs, your videos, and that your guests will love. 

The butterflies are released in one go, and so they look wonderful as they fly into the sky, but then they start to flutter around the guests, even landing on them or on furniture, and they will stay for a long time too. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate summer and your love. 

Outdoor Games

Outdoor games are a must have at any summer wedding. You can find large scale versions of favorites like chess and chequers or chutes and ladders, or you can play traditional games like lawn tennis, croquet, Frisbee, or Swingball.

Have these games out ready for your guests to enjoy. It will keep everyone occupied, including any children who might be present. Since the weather will hopefully be good and the sun will stay out for longer, you can keep playing the games until the party ends. 

Afternoon Tea

A traditional afternoon tea complete with finger sandwiches, scones and jam, pastries, and pots of tea or coffee is always a treat, and if you serve this to your guests for their wedding meal, they will absolutely adore it. 

You can take tea outside, al fresco, on the grass or at a table, and it will be a lovely and informal way for everyone – including the bride and groom – to relax after the stress of preparing for the day. You might even leave picnic blankets around to complete the scene. 

Ice Cream Truck

As the evening wears on, most people will start to get peckish again. Rather than setting out more food, you could hire an ice cream truck so that guests can order what they want themselves. This is such a summery thing to do, and it’s a great reminder of everyone’s childhood. For a summer wedding, there isn’t a better treat to give everyone, especially if you leave it as a surprise and they only realize the truck is arriving when they hear the distinctive chimes. 

An Outdoor Ceremony

Of course, one of the best things you can do at a summer wedding is to have your ceremony outside in nature. This is incredibly romantic and can look truly breathtaking. The only thing to bear in mind is that there should be an indoor alternative, just in case the weather takes a turn for the worse.

0 comment
Share: