Favorite Things Party, a Holiday Celebration on the Fly

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and the busiest, too! If you’re like me, planning your own holiday party is often left to the last minute. Recently, I wanted to host a gathering for my friends, but didn’t have a lot of time to plan it. I came up with this fun idea …

Easy DIY Burlap and Lace Wedding Decor

Burlap and lace are a match made in wedding heaven; the casual and rugged texture of burlap is an elegant counterpart to the sophistication and femininity of lace, making the pairing a perfect choice for wedding décor. It’s an effortless, romantic aesthetic that’s also easy on the budget. As an event designer, I love blending …

A Waggin’ Good Wedding

Parties, and especially weddings, these days, are such a fun way to express personal style in unique ways.  One way is to incorporate pets into your celebrations, like with these darling new pet themed invitations, from Evite! Recently, my friend Alicia was married in Orange County. Alicia and Mike incorporated their favorite adorable pooch, Mr. …

Recipe: Lavender Essence

Lavender essence is an elegant and unexpected addition to many traditional recipes. I use this to enhance cocktails, desserts, and to make simple syrup. Be sure to use only organic, culinary grade lavender buds. Lavender Essence 1 cup organic culinary grade lavender flowers 2 cups water Bring water to boil, and add the lavender buds. …

Carnival Roses; how do they make those?

 Perhaps you’ve seen these technicolor dream roses in the floral section at your supermarket; or maybe you’ve been the lucky recipient of these beauties. Maybe this is the first time you’ve seen one; in which case, I’m delighted to introduce you to the Carnival Rose. Carnival Roses are stunning to look at; they boast so …