Peacock Inspired Holiday by Hostess with the Mostess

The Hostess With The Mostess is Jennifer Sbranti, party planner to the stars! I love her blog and read it religiously!(hostessblog.com) She has created this wonderful peacock styled holiday get-together. I love the way she uses common Christmas items and affordable ornaments in an unexpected and innovative fashion. She is my inspiration and obsession!....Here's to getting you hooked too!

What's Not To Love About Audrey Hepburn?

"That's So Audrey!" ....This is a phrase frequently used by fashion designers, or those who just generally love fashion when they see anything that has a classic yet unique style. Audrey Hepburn is referred to by many as the most beloved actress of all time. She had such poise and elegance, not to mention charm. She was loved by everyone she worked with (excluding Humphrey Bogart, whom Audrey placed opposite in "Sabrina")in movies, or in theater. Audrey Hepburn is most commonly recognized as her character Holly Golightly in "Breakfast At Tiffany's. This movie, as well as the inspiration provided by Ms. Hepburn's portrayal of a call girl in this movie has served as inspiration for countless parties. Many people plan bridal showers, birthday parties, and even their weddings around this iconic movie, and even more iconic actress.There are many other Audrey Hepburn movies to love: Sabrina, Funny Face ( I LOVE this one!)and Roman Holiday are all splendid. Pick up a copy of one of these classic movies today! Enjoy!

Cookie Dough Gift Bundles

This Christmas you could..send out Christmas cards that everyone just throws away, or buy a rediculously overpriced pre-packaged gift basket, or the ever popular ...bake cookies. I love the idea of baking someone their favorite type of cookie and give it as a gift around the holidays (it's personal , and it doesn't break the bank) but I have noticed that if I recieve cookies ( or other baked goods) from too many people, they tend to get stale before I can eat them all. NEW IDEA! This year give them cookie dough! Whip up your grandmother's famous chocolate chip cookie recipe and package the cookie dough log in parchment paper with a strip of scrapbooking paper wrapped around the center, and secure ends with ribbon. All you do from this point is include cooking instructions and Voila! Now your loved ones can bienge on their favorites whenever they choose!

It's Black Friday once Again

Black Friday is upon us once again, so I hope everyone went out this morning before the sun even bothered to come up and waited in line for hours just to get that perfect gift for someone special (or yourself) for just the right price. Today can be the scariest day of the year if you are persuing a "hot item" like a TV or computer....be prepared to FIGHT for it. A few years back, I actually saw someone get tazed because a fight errupted in Walmart over an Xbox that had been marked down by $100.00. Many people now go out on the hunt simply because of tradition, even if you aren't looking for one of those previously described "hot items" , you can still score some cheap DVDs and some awesome people watching!So if you are up to it, head out to the stores, scoop up some good deals, and maybe even start a new tradition!

Gobble Pops

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I found these super cute cake pops on Bakerella.blogspot.com! They are surprisingly easy to make and are perfect for Thanksgiving!You will need a few items from the candy store to add the on the turkey's face and feathers.You will need chocolate covered espresso beans for the head, color coated candies (orange) for the beak, and heart shaped sprinkles for the wattle , you will also need pretzel sticks for the legs.Just follow the instructions on bakerella.blospot.com and celebrate your Thanksgiving with your very own Gobble pops!

Not-So-Traditional Thanksgiving Decor

Celebrate Thanksgiving this year with bright colors typically reserved for summer get-togthers. Instead of the usual burgandy, burnt orange,and other "fall" colors, opt for bright green, mix in some playful pink, just add some light wood grain accents to finish, and you are all set! You can find party supplies(shown above) at Plumparty.com!

Pumpkin Spice Lattes Make me Happy! ( And Now I Can Make Them At Home! )

The secret to the glorious flavor of a pumpkin spice latte is the syrup, and pumpkin spice syrup is quite easy to make. Just make simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar (I used 1 cup each) simmered on the stovetop, stirring often, until sugar is dissolved). Add in pumpkin pie spices (I used 2 Tspn. ground cinnamon and 1/2 tbsp. each ground cloves, ginger, and nutmeg) and simmer for five minutes. Strain the spices and grit out of the liquid by pouring it through a few layers of cheesecloth, then add a tablespoon of pure vanilla extract.

Store the cooled syrup in a glass bottle or jar, away from direct sunlight, or in the fridge.

To make a latte, combine 2 shots of espresso with about 2 Tbsp. spice syrup, then add steamed milk. For extra decadence, top with whipped cream, sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg on top, and pop in a cinnamon stick. Voila!