Would You Like Some Wine With That... ?: 2013

Sunday, December 29, 2013

Falling Into Fitness

Falling Into Fitness

While we are currently in the midst of fall, before the weather gets too chilly or cold to be outside, make sure to take advantage of the outdoors and enjoy the crisp fall air.One of the best ways to enjoy the weather and stay in shape is to go for a run or walk.The great thing about both of these activities is you can do them individually or with friends.You also don’t need a gym membership or fancy equipment-- just yourself and the beautiful outdoors! If you are in need of some motivation to achieve your fitness goals perhaps join a local running or walking group. Many national organizations or groups have regional options that are cost-free and a great way to meet new people and socialize, all while working out.Check out this...Read More

Easy Tips that Help Boost Your Mood

Easy Tips that Help Boost Your Mood

At some point and time we all find ourselves struggling to get through certain unexpected situations, or just get through the day in general. Here are four daily habits that are not only easy to do, but they have certainly helped me gain control of my feelings helping boost my mood: Take a time out and go for a power walk - Ever since I started my business, I have learned to take a time out by simply " walking away " from a situation that I know is going to ruin my day. To give you an idea, let me give you an example. Last week, I decided that I wanted to add a new page to this blog { the Blog Sale page to be exact }. My idea was to upload a photo gallery of products that would be of interest to you....Read More

Lushworthy Creations: “Green Tea-ni,” Made...

Lushworthy Creations: “Green Tea-ni,” Made...

As much as I love drinking green tea, I’ve never been one to indulge in the extra stuff (i.e. green tea frappucinos, green tea cookies, green tea facials, etc.) Since I tend to play it safe with my tea of choice, I figured it’d be fun to mix things up a bit by creating a cocktail using green tea. I tend to drink my green tea straight, but on occasion I will add honey and/or lemon. So, I knew I wanted those two ingredients in my green tea cocktail. The honey element in my “Green Tea-ni” comes courtesy of Smirnoff Honey Vodka and I stuck with good ol’ fresh lemon juice for this latest Lushworthy Creation.To sweeten things up just a tad bit, I added homemade simple syrup. View full recipe at Lushworthy.com. ...Read More

Perfect Pairings: Lemon Tea & The Classic Tote

Perfect Pairings: Lemon Tea & The Classic Tote

This stylish bag may look a bit familiar ! As one of the most popular accessories from Stella & Dot this season, this Classic Tote in tan and yellow has inspired us to pair a cocktail that’s just as great: our SMIRNOFF Sorbet Light Lemon Tea! SMIRNOFF Sorbet Light Lemon Tea Serves 1 ·1.5 oz. SMIRNOFF Sorbet Light Lemon ·3 oz. unsweetened black tea ·0.5 oz. fresh lemon juice ·0.25 oz. agave nectar Glassware: Collins glass Preparation: In an ice-filled cocktail shaker, add all the ingredients, shake and pour into a Collins glass. Garnish with a lemon wedge. Calories-110; Carbohydrates-9.8 G; Protein-0 G; Fat-0 G Per 6.25 oz. serving Disclosure: I am working in...Read More

Ideas for Delightful Date Nights

Ideas for Delightful Date Nights

Nothing spells romance like the bells, smells, chills and thrills of December. The holidays naturally add a little shine to our days and loving kindness to our attitudes at this time of year. And since these are the longest nights of the year for those in the Northern Hemisphere, make the most of them! Here are some high- and low-pressure options for enjoying one-on-one time with a loved one – whether it’s keeping the flame burning with a long-term partner, igniting a first date spark, bonding with a close friend or a cozy night in with your favorite pet. Splurge: take a sleigh ride. It’s corny and old-timey and totally worth it. Save: Cuddle up with your favorite holiday movie and simple, sultry cocktails at home. Try...Read More

Skinny Eggnog – really?

Skinny Eggnog – really?

I don’t ever like being the bearer of bad news, but the reality of the situation is that Eggnog, everybody’s favorite holiday treat, is not really that good for you. The standard carton you buy at the grocery store has 180 calories per HALF cup! Top that off with some booze and you are in real trouble. The good news is, we’re getting much savvier these days and there is a way to lighten it up. Thank goodness for SILK’s Holiday Nog, that has only 90 calories per HALF cup. And see below for my even skinnier tricks to thin it out, without compromising the traditional flavor we have all come to love so much. Here you have Boozy and non-boozy options, which both have well under my promise of 50% fewer...Read More

10 Things to Do This December

10 Things to Do This December

If you’re lucky enough to be living in a part of the country where temperatures are currently maxing out at a balmy 30 degrees, getting motivated to venture out from under the covers may be at the very bottom of your to-do list. We’re with you on that, but it is the most wonderful time of year, so bundle up and enjoy these festive outings (some of them don’t even require going outside)! · Go ice-skating – if it’s too warm where you are for natural ice (must be nice!), check out a local gym, roller skating rink or community center for an indoor rink where you can hone your skills or take advantage of having to hang on tight to a new date! · Take in Christmas lights – there’s something magical about...Read More

Honey Sunshine Cocktail

Honey Sunshine Cocktail

One of my favorite things is to host decadent brunches for friends - complete with a custom cocktail for everyone to enjoy. I was so excited to try the Smirnoff Honey Vodka in a cocktail and was certain my guests would love it too. Most brunch cocktails start with a base of good champagne and build upon it for added flavor. I wanted to enhance the flavor of the honey, while bringing in new flavors to the traditional champagne cocktail. I served baked honey cloud pancakes with berries and wanted a sweet, yet balanced cocktail. Because I hosted an all girls' brunch, I definitely wanted to play up the girly factor and added a splash of Campari. Not only does it add a pretty blush tone to the cocktail but it really brings together the...Read More

Cinna-Sugar Apple Spice Mimosa

Cinna-Sugar Apple Spice Mimosa

by Giselle Schroer When I think of bridal showers, I think of mimosas. In fact out of all the bridal showers I've attended I can't think of one that wasn't serving the sparkling, citrus beverage. Orange Juice mimosa's are great for spring/summer weddings but during the fall/winter season I crave something a little more spiced. Cinnamon... Apples... Sugar... If that doesn't scream fall then I don't know what does! This winter themed mimosa recipe is the perfect sparkling cocktail to serve at a bridal shower, wedding, or just for fun! Cinna-Sugar Apple Spice Mimosa 1 oz. Cinna-Sugar Twist Flavored Vodka 1/4 tsp. Cinnamon 3 oz. Apple Cider Champagne or Sparkling Water In a...Read More

Friday, December 27, 2013

Holiday Treats

Holiday Treats

The holidays always guarantee three things: delicious treats, drinks and quality time with friends. This holiday season; gather your closest friends for a fun filled night of all three. Bake some holiday cookies, build ginger bread houses and have fun decorating. Don’t forget to whip up a holiday treat inspired cocktail too. Try the SMIRNOFF Caramel Apple Pie cocktail for that delicious blend of indulgent sweetness and spice of fun. Caramel Apple Pie Recipe Serves 1 ·1 oz. SMIRNOFF Kissed Caramel Flavored Vodka ·.5 oz. Spiced Rum ·1 oz. Apple Cider ·.25 oz. Lemon Juice ·.25 oz. Simple Syrup ·3 tsp. Sugar ·1 tsp. Pumpkin Pie Spice Preparation: Use pumpkin pie spice to rim...Read More

Reuse and Recycle: DIY Gift Bows

Reuse and Recycle: DIY Gift Bows

Hopefully at this point, you’re wrapping up (literally and figuratively) all of your holiday shopping. But if you’re not, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Regardless if you’re in a rush, here’s a fun tutorial that is simple and will save you money! Who doesn’t want to save money during the holidays? Before you throw out that stack of magazines that has accumulated in your TV room, grab a few and put them to good use by creating fabulous gift bows for your piles of presents. · Step 1: Decide on your color scheme and tear out the appropriately colored pages. · Step 2: Cut those pages vertically into 9 strips about ¾ inches wide. · Step 3: Leave 3 of the strips at page length; cut one inch off 3 of the strips; two inches...Read More

Girls Night In

Girls Night In

Here are some movies for your next girls' night in, courtesy of IMDB: 100 Movies All Girls Must Watch! #Smirnoff Honey http://www.imdb.com/list/TNWt821SMpk/ Smirnoff Wild Honey and Smirnoff Cinna Sugar Twist will be a hit with all your ladies! #SmirnoffHoney #SmirnoffCinnaSugar Honey cupcakes. Nom Nom! #SmirnoffHoney http://www.womansday.com/recipefinder/lemon-honey-cupcakes-recipe-122603 The inspiration behind Smirnoff Cinna-Sugar Twist. If you’re having a sleep over, prep the dough the night before and pop into the oven the morning. #SmirnoffCinnaSugar http://myfavoritethings-miranda.blogspot.com/2012/03/cinnamon-twists.html Have fun socks for your guests! #SmirnoffHoney ...Read More

Fool Proof Tips to Stock Your Bar for Your...

Fool Proof Tips to Stock Your Bar for Your...

While most of us enjoy the holiday season it can also be a hectic time with a schedule full of holiday parties. Hosting your own party can be a blast, but also stressful so it’s best to get organized ahead of time so you can relax and enjoy the evening with your guests. While getting the décor and food elements together, some forget to think through one of the most important parts of a party – the bar! Try some of these easy tips to help you get a jump on your next holiday party: Make space for your bar ahead of time – Many don’t realize how much space a bar can take up especially depending on the size of your party. Be sure to have a table on hand (or borrow one from a friend) that you can put a table cloth over and...Read More

10 Things to Do This December

10 Things to Do This December

If you’re lucky enough to be living in a part of the country where temperatures are currently maxing out at a balmy 30 degrees, getting motivated to venture out from under the covers may be at the very bottom of your to-do list. We’re with you on that, but it is the most wonderful time of year, so bundle up and enjoy these festive outings (some of them don’t even require going outside)! · Go ice-skating – if it’s too warm where you are for natural ice (must be nice!), check out a local gym, roller skating rink or community center for an indoor rink where you can hone your skills or take advantage of having to hang on tight to a new date! · Take in Christmas lights – there’s something magical about...Read More

Finally, an infomercial with genuine results

Finally, an infomercial with genuine results

How does Cindy Crawford's skin stay looking so youthful? Like, seriously. I know you've all undoubtedly seen her infomercial for Meaningful Beauty. A supposed advanced, anti-aging system for your skin concocted by "internationally acclaimed" French skin specialist, Dr. Jean-Louis Sebagh. Blah. Blah. Blah. Let's get to the point. I got the awesome opportunity to test out the Meaningful Beauty Creme de Serum , "a triple approach to combatting the signs of aging." Lord, I freaking hope so. Because I am not in the market for surgery. No thanks. I like the way I look and would like to preserve it as long as possible. So, this seemed like a...Read More

Baby, it's cold outside.

Baby, it's cold outside.

Follow my blog with Bloglovin I love our tree this year! So, I know it's not real snow. But with how cold it just got, practically overnight, it could be real snow...kinda. It's freezing and I love it. Time to decorate. Time for warm, cozy fires and Christmas gift shopping from my iPad. Time to bake Christmas cookies and send Christmas greetings. Time to pull out that elf hat that Willy detests...but wears for me anyway. Time for extra warm coffee in cups that can't be microwaved and must be hand-washed. - Christmas Tree is from ABC Tree Farms in Sunnyvale, CA - Ornaments & cookie cutters are from Michael's - Gold sequin mini hanger ornament is by Pearls & Pastries - Christmas cards c/o Papyrus - Reiko Kaneko gold lip tease mug...Read More

Gift Guide: Gifts for Your Coworker

Gift Guide: Gifts for Your Coworker

1 Sugar Paper Desk Calendar $52 \\ 2 The Little Market Ornament $12 \\ 3 Pencils with Leather Case $8 \\ 4 Lucite Stapler $32 \\ 5 Zac Posen iPad Sleeve $52 \\ 6 Sole Society Chain Link Necklace $35 \\ 7 Stila Long Wear Lip Set $20 \\ 8 Jonathan Adler Mug $18 \\ 9 Sole Society Delancey Vegan Crossbody $35 \\ 10 Sole Society Infinity Scarf $25

Gift Guide: Gifts for Your Best Friend

Gift Guide: Gifts for Your Best Friend

1 Rag & Bone Sweater $290 \\ 2 Gigi New York Python Embossed Pouch $108 \\ 3 Marc by Marc Jacobs Bolt Link Bracelet $78 \\ 4 The Little Market Vanity Trunk $350 \\ 5 Asos Rocket Jewel Earrings $26 \\ 6 Frends Layla Rose Gold Headphones $285 \\ 7 Tory Burch Baily Box $385 \\ 8 Eberjey Giselle PJ Set $98 \\ 9 Kate Spade Bow Leather Glove $128 \\ 10 Tiny Baguette Ring $64

Flashback: Diamonds and Pearls and Southern Girls

Flashback: Diamonds and Pearls and Southern Girls

Every now and then I have to revisit an old post, this one was titled Diamonds May Be A Girl’s Best Friend but PEARLS Are The Southern Girl’s Best Friend. I have to say I still think this is true. So, I thought I might repost this and maybe update it a little bit. Side note: I just got out of one of my last classes for undergrad, and tomorrow is very busy with all kinds of fun going on like the Stanislaus and Vineville Tours and Macon Pops, so I might be a little bit quiet over the weekend. Of course we’ve all heard it, Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend. And I would actually agree- but there is a difference between a Southern Belle and a girl, just like there is a difference between...Read More

Welcome to Mixhibit

Welcome to Mixhibit

Want to relive your favorite moments and share your experience with friends using a short video? SMIRNOFF has an app for you! It’s time to download Mixhbit , an exciting new app from SMIRNOFF that blends peoples’ best moments captured on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter into a one-of-a-kind digital video. For the first time, users are given the option to pull from their friends’ social streams, to incorporate different perspectives into their Mixhibit videos to tell a collective group story. The app, which officially launched in October, lets you set a custom soundtrack by choosing from the app’s library of more than 10,000 songs – filtered based on mood or genre – to help bring your story to life. Take a look at the...Read More

Honey Sunshine Cocktail

Honey Sunshine Cocktail

One of my favorite things is to host decadent brunches for friends - complete with a custom cocktail for everyone to enjoy. I was so excited to try the Smirnoff Honey Vodka in a cocktail and was certain my guests would love it too. Most brunch cocktails start with a base of good champagne and build upon it for added flavor. I wanted to enhance the flavor of the honey, while bringing in new flavors to the traditional champagne cocktail. I served baked honey cloud pancakes with berries and wanted a sweet, yet balanced cocktail. Because I hosted an all girls' brunch, I definitely wanted to play up the girly factor and added a splash of Campari. Not only does it add a pretty blush tone to the cocktail but it really brings together the...Read More

Gingersnap Martinis featuring SMIRNOFF...

Gingersnap Martinis featuring SMIRNOFF...

I adore specialty drinks. So when I spotted the Cinna-Sugar Twist Vodka in my liquor cabinet, I knew I’d have to whip up spicy, autumnal cocktail. The first idea that crossed my mind was a Gingersnap Martini. But how would I transform one of my favorite cookies into a cocktail? I enlisted the help of a group of friends I had over for a cooking demo. I had a few variations of this cocktail…one without molasses, one with a quarter part molasses and another with double that. The molasses was key for recreating the dark color of this classic cookie, but being heavy handed overwhelmed the taste. So the middle ground was perfect. And making a simple syrup infused with ginger provided the key ingredient needed from the namesake...Read More

Don’t Settle for a Dull Champagne Flute on New...

Don’t Settle for a Dull Champagne Flute on New...

Is there anything worse than setting your glass down at a party and not knowing which one is yours when you reach for another sip?! Sure, there are martini charms and other items you can purchase at the store to differentiate your glass but this holiday season consider spicing it up a bit by designing your own champagne flutes by following just a few easy steps. What you’ll need: ·Champagne Flutes ·Glass Paint and Paint Pens ·Loose Glitter ·Finishing Spray ·Painters Tape ·Plastic Grocery Bags Start by thoroughly washing and sterilizing your champagne flutes – make sure you have enough for your guests. Once you have clean, spotless glasses cover the portion of your champagne flutes that you do...Read More

Cinna-Sugar Apple Spice Mimosa

Cinna-Sugar Apple Spice Mimosa

by Giselle Schroer When I think of bridal showers, I think of mimosas. In fact out of all the bridal showers I've attended I can't think of one that wasn't serving the sparkling, citrus beverage. Orange Juice mimosa's are great for spring/summer weddings but during the fall/winter season I crave something a little more spiced. Cinnamon... Apples... Sugar... If that doesn't scream fall then I don't know what does! This winter themed mimosa recipe is the perfect sparkling cocktail to serve at a bridal shower, wedding, or just for fun! Cinna-Sugar Apple Spice Mimosa 1 oz. Cinna-Sugar Twist Flavored Vodka 1/4 tsp. Cinnamon 3 oz. Apple Cider Champagne or Sparkling Water In a...Read More

Sunday, December 8, 2013

On Avoiding Cold Weather Hibernation

On Avoiding Cold Weather Hibernation

While I may be in the minority here, winter is truly one of my favorite times of year. Chalk it up to a childhood spent in New York State and my many fond memories of snowy winters, nighttime sledding excursions, and (of course!) holiday lights. That said, each season, it tends to get a bit harder to stay motivated as the season drags on and temperatures linger below zero. I’m a doer by nature, as many of you likely know, so I recommend embracing the season. A few tips to staying active, engaged and ENTERTAINED during winter: ·Upgrade Your Style: As a fashion-centric person, I LOVE Winter. Thick, big chunky knit sweaters and scarves, a statement-making coat and a gorgeous pair of books (over the knee is major this season – consider...Read More

A Winter Wonderland of Dinner Parties

A Winter Wonderland of Dinner Parties

Cocktails Anyone? All you need to mix up Smirnoff Sorbet Light Martinis is ice, lemons and a cocktail shaker. #smirnoffsorbet http://www.secondcitystyle.com/?p=84978

Cyber Monday Madness!

Cyber Monday Madness!

Happy Cyber Monday everyone! As you are going through all of your e-mails trying to decide what to buy and what stores have the best deals be sure to check out an exclusive offer from our friends over at Gloss48 ! Gloss48 is a brand new site featuring a daily dose of hard-to-find, must-have niche beauty brands— it is the ultimate paradise for beauty product junkies. Gloss48 scours the beauty universe to find the most covetable and innovative skin, hair, nail and makeup products. Their daily, featured brands are available for seven days at a special sale price so that members can give them a try without breaking the bank. They also keep a permanent collection of their favorite products so that members to continue to build...Read More

Holiday Gift Guide SMIRNOFF Hub Edition

Holiday Gift Guide SMIRNOFF Hub Edition

The Holidays are here! With that comes shopping, shopping and even more shopping ! Sometimes it feels you’re your list never ends from friends to family members to your significant other and sometimes even for co-workers. Don’t wait until the last minute to get your gifts! There is nothing worse than a crowded mall as you struggle to find the perfect gift. SMIRNOFF has a solution. Why not redeem your points this holiday season to score some awesome gifts that will come right to your front door! We have some fabulous new items available from a recent partnership with Kiehls this Holiday Season along with some classic pieces from Stella & Dot. Below find the 5 must-haves for the holidays from the SMIRNOFF Hub! ...Read More

Holiday Menu

Holiday Menu

This easy, packable cous cous is filled with healthful greens and beans! #smirnoffsorbet Link: http://www.biggirlssmallkitchen.com/2012/05/cous-cous-with-sausage-greens-and-white-beans.html A greens-filled baked omelet is a super easy brunch main to serve to friends! #smirnoffsorbet Link: http://www.biggirlssmallkitchen.com/2013/09/iranian-kuku-or-a-greens-omelet-for-the-new-year.html The side salad that’ll elevate any dinner party you ever host. #smirnoffsorbet Link: http://www.biggirlssmallkitchen.com/2013/04/the-salad-dressing-i-cant-get-enough-of.html Peanut butter cookies, without the guilt. #smirnoffsorbet Link: ...Read More

Ideas for Delightful Date Nights

Ideas for Delightful Date Nights

Nothing spells romance like the bells, smells, chills and thrills of December. The holidays naturally add a little shine to our days and loving kindness to our attitudes at this time of year. And since these are the longest nights of the year for those in the Northern Hemisphere, make the most of them! Here are some high- and low-pressure options for enjoying one-on-one time with a loved one – whether it’s keeping the flame burning with a long-term partner, igniting a first date spark, bonding with a close friend or a cozy night in with your favorite pet. Splurge: take a sleigh ride. It’s corny and old-timey and totally worth it. Save: Cuddle up with your favorite holiday movie and simple, sultry cocktails at home. Try...Read More

Saturday, December 7, 2013

Blueberry Mint Fizz + Fruit Filled Ice Cubes

Blueberry Mint Fizz + Fruit Filled Ice Cubes

This summer I’ve been trying to step outside my usual Sauvignon Blanc pour and instead mix up a cocktail or two. Which I’m sure y’all noticed since the only food in our food category seems to currently be cocktails. Anyway, this little concoction came from the desire to have something crisp, cool, and refreshing on these hot Atlanta days. Well that and I had about a pound of fresh blueberries in the fridge and my mint leaves had begun to take over my entire garden and needed to be used stat. So from that my Smirnoff Blueberry Mint Fizz was born. And of course I had to take it one step further and make it just a tad fancy by making some blueberry and mint ice cubes. Perfection. Cin Cin Loves. truly, MKR What you’ll need… ...Read More

Lemon & Lavender Martini

Lemon & Lavender Martini

As you may have noticed I’m on a cocktail kick as of late. Now just to be clear no cocktail will ever replace my love of wine, but sometimes I just want to get fancy. So the amazing people of Smirnoff sent me their ridiculously good Lemon Sorbet Light Vodka and I decided to muddle a little lavender and voila…my new favorite Lemon Lavender Martini was born. I shared this goodness on Crave Local yesterday, but in case you missed it, here’s the oh-so-easy recipe. Pics via the talented Rustic White per usual, and happy Friday Loves! truly, MKR Ingredients: 2 oz. Smirnoff Sorbet Light Lemon Vodka 1 oz. lavender syrup (or 1-2 drops lavender bitters with simple syrup or agave to taste) 1/2 oz. fresh squeezed lemon juice...Read More

National Marshmallow Toasting Day!

National Marshmallow Toasting Day!

Yes, we are serious—National Marshmallow Toasting Day is a real holiday and a pretty awesome one if you think about it! With summer coming to a close, National Marshmallow Toasting Day, which falls on August 30, is the perfect opportunity to invite friends and family over for a campfire and toast up some marshmallows. How delicious does a gooey, toasted marshmallow paired with rich dark chocolate and graham crackers sound? Summer wouldn’t be complete without a campfire and National Marshmallow Toasting Day gives you a great excuse! Here’s our marshmallow pairing: SMIRNOFF Sangria (recipe below) which we’re sure your guests will enjoy! SMIRNOFF Sangria Recipe (Serves 8): ·6 oz. SMIRNOFF Vodka ·1...Read More

A Sweet Treat

A Sweet Treat

Now that the holidays are fast approaching, it's a fabulous time to test out new recipes. When it comes to holiday entertaining, I think it's best to add a little spice to your presentation to get your guests raving. Why stick with the same old traditional desserts when you can offer up a sensational twist on the good-old classics? Instead of serving basic vanilla ice cream, opt for the lactose-free (but equally delicious) Vanilla Soy Cream, so that all your guests can indulge. Add a splash of SMIRNOFF Cinna-Sugar Twist Flavored Vodka and a drizzle of delectable Maple Syrup on top for the ultimate indulgence. RECIPE FOR EACH SERVING: 2 Scoops - Vanilla Soy Cream 5 ML - SMIRNOFF Cinna-Sugar Twist Flavored Vodka Drizzle...Read More

"Honey, I'm Home!"

"Honey, I'm Home!"

OCCASION: Date Night THEME: 60's - Mad Men COCKTAIL: Pre-Dinner Drink called the "Honey, I'm Home!"

No Sew Ribbon Tree Skirt

No Sew Ribbon Tree Skirt

Learn how to make a NO SEW Ribbon Tree Skirt for your Christmas tree.

The Caribbean Cruiser

The Caribbean Cruiser

Caribbean Cruiser SkinnyTini This post was originally written as a guest post for a fellow fit blogger who was traveling in the Caribbean. It was so fitting, as I made my very first recipe ever on the beach in Antigua in the winter of 2006. Well, not physically on the beach, but you get the picture. It was actually the winter body, on the beach that inspired the skinny cocktail concept! If you flash back 7 years, you may recall a time when there was no such thing. Where it All Started… I had head out on a voyage for some fun in the sun to ring in the New Year with a girlfriend on the remote south side of the island. I was coming off a few months of too much fun, but since it was seasonally chilly, I don’t think I really noticed...Read More

Modern Traditional Thanksgiving Table Setting

Modern Traditional Thanksgiving Table Setting

One of the first major cooking and hostessing challenges I ever took on was hosting and preparing Thanksgiving dinner for my large family about 8 years ago. My Mom was so nervous about me taking on the whole meal, she prepped about 8 different appetizers just in case if I screwed things up. I didn't screw up - quite the contrary - it was the best meal I had ever prepared! Since then, my family (close and extended) expect my delish turkey dinner. Like years past, Alan and I are hosting dinner at our new home as a newly married couple! Since we've spent the last few months on project wedding, I decided to decorate for fall and prepared a simple, modern yet traditional Thanksgiving and fall table setting. I pulled together...Read More

Four Seasonal Sips To Enjoy After Ice Skating...

Four Seasonal Sips To Enjoy After Ice Skating...

Earlier in the month, I had the opportunity to check out Skate Atlantic Station , Atlantic Station’s first ever ice skating rink. It served as my first time ever ice skating so I was a little nervous and unsure of how much fun I’d actually have hovering over the sides of the ice rink. Needless to say, I had a blast! I got the hang of things surprisingly quickly and only fell once. I blame the ice. So, I’m extremely eager to check out Skate Atlantic Station again and this time I will of course be following up my visit with a seasonal cocktail or two. And in case you’ve got the same idea (which you should!), I’ve compiled a list of the four best, seasonal sips (of the boozy variety) you can indulge in after hitting the...Read More

Skinny Eggnog – really?

Skinny Eggnog – really?

I don’t ever like being the bearer of bad news, but the reality of the situation is that Eggnog, everybody’s favorite holiday treat, is not really that good for you. The standard carton you buy at the grocery store has 180 calories per HALF cup! Top that off with some booze and you are in real trouble. The good news is, we’re getting much savvier these days and there is a way to lighten it up. Thank goodness for SILK’s Holiday Nog, that has only 90 calories per HALF cup. And see below for my even skinnier tricks to thin it out, without compromising the traditional flavor we have all come to love so much. Here you have Boozy and non-boozy options, which both have well under my promise of 50% fewer...Read More

You now You Want It...

You now You Want It...

Here's what's been making my world lately...you know I'm addicted to anything black, white or gold. Links to my latest must-haves below. Happy Shopping! _________________________________________________________________________________ 1. Rebecca Minkoff x Frends Interchangeable Taylor Headphones $250 2. Kate Spade Acrylic Straws (Set of 6) $1 4 3. Alice + Olivia x Starbucks Tutu Tumbler $20 (Available in-store only as they appear to have sold out on Starbucks.com) 4. Frieda & Nellie x Of A Kind Chevron and Crystal Bracelet $150 5. Victoria's Secret Nail Lacquer Gold "Runway Angel" $10 ...Read More

The Party Starter

The Party Starter

Holiday season has finally arrived, that means lots of holiday cocktails, delicious food and tons of wrapping paper. During the holidays we love creating new and EASY cocktails but especially for Christmas and New Years. During the holidays we are always so busy cooking, shopping or wrapping presents that we need the easiest cocktail possible. What's easier than Eggnog and Smirnoff Cinna-Sugar Vodka. You can literally make trays of these cocktails in minutes and the party will get started. It's incredibly delicious and full of holiday goodness. Eggnog, Cinnamon, Sugar come on what gets better than that? Take a tbsp of cinnamon and a tbsp of sugar and mix well in a bowl. Take a glass, preferably champagne glass, and...Read More

A Taste of Fall

A Taste of Fall

In early November, we finally had our first party in our new apartment. Although we moved in more than two months ago, September and October were just too crazy for a housewarming party. For a night playing hostess, I wanted to wear something fun! So, I opted for doubling up on my favorite pattern and pairing a casual sweatshirt with a faux leather skirt. I also made a super easy concoction that was the perfect fall drink, combining warm apple cider (4 oz.) with Smirnoff’s new Cinna-Sugar Twist vodka (1.5 oz.)…highly recommend it! See more of my outfit on La Petite Pear .

Friday, December 6, 2013

A Taste of Fall

A Taste of Fall

In early November, we finally had our first party in our new apartment. Although we moved in more than two months ago, September and October were just too crazy for a housewarming party. For a night playing hostess, I wanted to wear something fun! So, I opted for doubling up on my favorite pattern and pairing a casual sweatshirt with a faux leather skirt. I also made a super easy concoction that was the perfect fall drink, combining warm apple cider (4 oz.) with Smirnoff’s new Cinna-Sugar Twist vodka (1.5 oz.)…highly recommend it! See more of my outfit on La Petite Pear .

Welcome to Mixhibit

Welcome to Mixhibit

Want to relive your favorite moments and share your experience with friends using a short video? SMIRNOFF has an app for you! It’s time to download Mixhbit , an exciting new app from SMIRNOFF that blends peoples’ best moments captured on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter into a one-of-a-kind digital video. For the first time, users are given the option to pull from their friends’ social streams, to incorporate different perspectives into their Mixhibit videos to tell a collective group story. The app, which officially launched in October, lets you set a custom soundtrack by choosing from the app’s library of more than 10,000 songs – filtered based on mood or genre – to help bring your story to life. Take a look at the...Read More

How To Prep Your Party Ahead of Time

How To Prep Your Party Ahead of Time

I love hosting around the holidays almost as much as I love being a guest at friends' parties. Most of all, I adore when friends come to me for advice about how to plan a menu, prep, and cook for their holiday meals. I love this because it gives me a chance to dole out the wisdom I know they all need to hear: make sure to have fun at your own party. Too often, hosts—especially not ultra-experienced ones, as well as people like me who are improvising parties in tiny kitchens and itsy bitsy apartments—get so involved in the hosting aspect that they forget to be guests at their own parties. The best defense against becoming high-strung or worried is tongs of preparation. Here's a rundown. Make punch. A huge...Read More

Snowy Mountain Get-A-Way

Snowy Mountain Get-A-Way

The days might be shorter, but the work hours are the same (if not longer) and a winter vacation is a perfect time to recharge your batteries and go into the New Year refreshed. Whether you like to surf the snow or surf the water, check out our winter destination favorites and get inspired for your own winter getaway! Ski Resort. Perfect for the winter sports enthusiast and “winter wonderland” lover, head to a ski resort this year to spend the day hitting the slopes and then curl up with a hot beverage by the fire in the lodge. Check out Jackson Hole, Wyoming for a nice blend of adventure and relaxation. Tropical Island. Tired of these cold, dark days? From tropical forests to cascading waterfalls and sandy beaches,...Read More

Ideas for Delightful Date Nights

Ideas for Delightful Date Nights

Nothing spells romance like the bells, smells, chills and thrills of December. The holidays naturally add a little shine to our days and loving kindness to our attitudes at this time of year. And since these are the longest nights of the year for those in the Northern Hemisphere, make the most of them! Here are some high- and low-pressure options for enjoying one-on-one time with a loved one – whether it’s keeping the flame burning with a long-term partner, igniting a first date spark, bonding with a close friend or a cozy night in with your favorite pet. Splurge: take a sleigh ride. It’s corny and old-timey and totally worth it. Save: Cuddle up with your favorite holiday movie and simple, sultry cocktails at home. Try...Read More

Holiday Entertaining

Holiday Entertaining

Let’s break out the cinnamon! I’m making spiced simple syrup for all my holiday cocktail needs. #smirnoffcinnasugar While all opinions expressed are my own, this post was produced in collaboration with SMIRNOFF and Style Coalition.

Saturday, November 30, 2013

The Biggest Party Night of the Year!

The Biggest Party Night of the Year!

Thanksgiving Eve is known as one of the biggest party nights of the year next to New Year’s Eve. As everyone heads back home for family festivities, the night before is dedicated to reuniting with hometown friends at places where the good-time memories are plentiful and you can relive the glory days! To kick off the night right, invite your closest friends over for a pre-outing and let the reminiscing begin. Try the recipe below for the SMIRNOFF Wish You Were Here cocktail – it’s the perfect mix to get your taste buds ready for all of the deliciousness that’s to come the next day! SMIRNOFF Wish You Were Here •1 oz. SMIRNOFF Wild Honey Flavored Vodka • 2 oz. dry white wine • 3 oz. lemon lime soda ...Read More

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