DIY Painted Window Display

diy painted window display

I’m a sucker for any type of vintage-style architectural pieces like shutters, frames, and windows, because they add such character to your home or party decor. I told you about my thrift store finds a while back that included some fantastic display “props”, one of which was a window panel that had starfish attached and… Read More

Hot Mulled Wine

mulled wine

On Christmas Eve I decided to try something new, thanks to my friend Coryanne who posted on facebook that she was going to make mulled wine for the holidays. I’ve never made it before – never even tasted it, but after a rave review from another friend {who doesn’t like wine – WHAT?!} who had… Read More

Cream Cheese Mold With Craisin-Nut Topping

cream cheese mold with craisin nut topping

I’m taking it “old school with a modern twist” today with this cream cheese spread. I can’t think of too many appetizers that have stood the test of time, nor are EASIER to make than a block of cream cheese topped with pepper jelly. Well, since I obviously can’t blog about that {what’s new to… Read More

Sweet & Savory Cheese Canapes

sweet & savory cheese canapes

There’s nothing better or more classic than the combination of cheese, nuts, dried fruit, and crusty bread….add in a little bacon and it’s pure heaven. With that thought in mind I created these delicious sweet & savory cheese canapes for my black & white plaid party. These are versatile enough to serve for a casual… Read More

Chocolate Cake Cocktail

chocolate cake cockail

Let the countdown to midnight begin! I created this chocolate cake cocktail recipe to coordinate with my black & white plaid party, which is perfect for a New Years Eve dinner party. The dark color is in keeping with the theme, and the ingredients just BEG for a chocolate Swiss cake roll garnish! Mix this… Read More

5 Ways To Dress Up Champagne

dress up champagne

There’s nothing more festive or celebratory than champagne, and I’ve pulled together 5 examples of how you can serve it in style for New Years Eve. Most of the ideas are for mini bottles because I just think they lend themselves so well to great party style. If you order them in bulk {like a… Read More

Brunch Recipe – Eggnog Bread Pudding

eggnog bread pudding

We’ve had a wonderful, family filled holiday with lots of food, drink, and fun {unfortunately it’s ended with a stomach bug making it’s way through the house}. I cooked a lot of favorite recipes which allowed me to update photos on the blog of my delicious broccoli casserole, and fruit & nut wild rice, and… Read More

Christmas Cocktail – Rudolph’s Shiny Red Cocktail

Christmas cocktail

Nothing completes your Christmas entertaining like a color-coordinated cocktail with seasonal flavors. I created this red drink using a bottle of Effen Vodka that was sent to me to sample, cranberry juice {of course}, plus the addition of something bubbly! The mixture makes a pretty pale red cocktail that I like to call “Rudolph’s Shiny… Read More

Coconut Oatmeal Cookies

Coconut Oatmeal Cookies recipe

By now I’m sure you’ve probably participated in whatever cookie exchange you had planned for the holidays, but don’t let that stop you from making these yummy coconut oatmeal cookies. This is the recipe I contributed to Bird’s Party magazine and I’m sharing the recipe with you PLUS a little bonus. Set aside some time… Read More

Winter Dinner Party Ideas – Black & White Plaid

new years eve bar

Looking forward to New Years Eve? This dinner party design I created for The Party Dress magazine is perfect for ringing in the new year or celebrating a special birthday. The idea was to work with a plaid theme, but I didn’t want to do the flannel, rustic, or traditional red that has been done… Read More