Molton Brown turns back time with a new anti-aging skincare line
25 May 2012 Leave a Comment
in Bride, bridesmaid, reality, Beauty, $ale, Bridal Tags: beauty
Molton Brown has added to their already cult-classic body care line with their first anti-aging skincare collection. 
This new range is engineered to help significantly improve you skin’s health and aging process. Comprised of the most potent plant, mineral and fruit extracts from around the world, each product in the collection has been designed for personal skin types, to target specific problems, including kalahari melon to keep skin supple, antioxidant rich malachite to pink toronja grapefruit which helps lift old surface cells to polish the skin. 
The line includes 13 products ranging in price from $42-$98, and includes a lip booster, an eye treatment, toner, cleansing gel and fluid, and sunscreen. Three products are formulated specifically for the body: a Polynesian Kopara anti-ageing neck and décolletage cream, a hand cream, and a body cream. In other words, Molton Brown has taken care of you from head to toe.
Check out the entire collection, which is available now, at moltonbrown.com.
Destination Mexico: Playa del Carmen
24 May 2012 Leave a Comment
in wedding, Bride, Groom, planning, bridesmaid, reality, wedding planning, location, Hotel, venue, Groomsmen, Green, Destination, honeymoon, reception ideas, Guests, Bridal Tags: Mexico, International Destination
Oh I know that there is a slight fear factor when it comes to Mexico…but lets just put it out there. Yes, there are certain places in Mexico (and California, Chicago, Idaho… I could go on) that have problems. What I can tell you is that Playa del Carmen is on the eastern tip of Mexico and is primarily all resorts. What does this mean for you – a police presence that keeps its visitors safe.
One of my favorite hotel properties in Playa del Carmen is Condo Hotels. Just as the name implies, the ‘rooms’ are truly complete apartments that have all the amenities of a much larger hotel property. LOVE IT! What makes this property really unique is that there are actually 4 unique properties, all within walking distance of each other.
Porta Playa is Mediterranean style with cascading waterfalls, lush tropical gardens and the penthouse has great ocean views.
Maya Villa, the newest property is already thought of as the ‘jewel of the playa properties’. The Jade colored Gecko mosaic and glass pool truly sparkles next to a 40-foot waterfall.
Villas Sacbe is super sweet and cozy. Only 12 rooms, why not rent out the entire property? This intimate boutique hotel offers a tranquil experience yet is only 1 block from the heart of their “5th Avenue”. Honestly, once you enter, you’ll feel like you entered another world.
El Taj –This is their premier condominium. Between being 50 feet from the ocean, having a mosaic infinity pool and all the comforts of home, you won’t want to leave. If you want a beach wedding without the sand in your veil (and toes), then their penthouse offers sweeping views of the ocean under a giant thatched roof. There are just so many options.
From a mariachi band, to fire-twirlers for a wedding for two or 300, you can have a package tailored specifically for your needs. There are so many wonderful benefits from having your wedding in Carmen del Playa and even more by staying at one of the Condo Property. You may like it so much…you might decide to do a time-share to keep the memories alive year after year.
Wine Wednesday: Bernardaud hosts Sake Masters
23 May 2012 Leave a Comment
in wedding, Bride, Groom, planning, bridesmaid, reality, wedding planning, Groomsmen, vendor, registry, $ale, honeymoon, reception ideas, Food or Drink, Guests, Bridal, perfect pair Tags: Wine Wednesday
Many of you may have seen Bernardaud, while looking for your fine china for your wedding registry. Each Bernardaud collection offers proof that they redefine style and the way we look at fine china. From contemporary to bold pieces they bring simple luxury to everyday life. Recently they hosted a Sake Tasting reception with Sake Masters from several historic Japanese breweries and created a unique Sake cup to introduce their guests to this sometimes-mysterious brew.
The four sake breweries represented were: Urakasumi (represented by Mr. Koichi Saura); Sudohonke (represented by Mr. Gen-uemon Sudo); Masumi Sake Co. (represented by Mr. Katsuhiko Miyasaka) and Masuizumi Sake Co. (represented by Mr. Ryuichiro Masuda). They paired it with French cuisine and delicious chocolates from La Maison du Chocolat.
Today we celebrate Sake.
Urakasumi – www.urakasumi.com: Founded in 1724, it is responsible for producing the sake for the Shiogama Shrine, which goes back in history more than 1000 years. The house offered two sakes:
Junmai Ginjoshu Urakasumizen – This sake has a balanced flavor with creamy texture and length. Flavors like (Ginjo) apple and banana balance well and would compliment seafood and a light meal.
Yamadanishinki Junmai Daiginjo Urakasumi – This fragrant sake has an intense note of mixed fruits like apple and fresh pineapple. It’s really sweet and has a clean finish. This extremely unique is it’s produced in limited quantities.
Sudohonke – www.sudohonke.co.jp: This 850 year old sake brewery is the oldest in Japan and is one-hour away from Tokyo. Originally part of the warrior class, it began after the Japanese economy started to be based on rice. The brewery is surrounded by lush and fragrant Keyaki trees that protect it from the sun’s rays in summer and absorb water, one of the most important ingredients in sake. Actually the sake is made from the water in the family’s own wells. This is the first brewery to sell unpasteurized sake.
Satononohomare – Sweet Junmai-Ginjo-she with good acidity. IT pairs well with foie gras and desserts like dark chocolate.
“Kakunko” Junmai Daiginjohshu – A medium bodied and very fragrant sake with great lengths and elegance. Unfiltered and unpasteurized, it goes well with meat.
Masumi Sake Co – www.masumi.co.jp: Established by the Miyasaka family in Nagano in 1662 has been praised by Shoguns and warriors alike. The name “Masumi” means transparency or truth.
Nanago – Using their own yeast and local Miyama Nishiki rich, Nanago has a mild fragrance and a full-bodied flavor with balanced acidity and a clean finish. It goes with smoked seafood, meat and aged cheese. It actually pairs well with the dark chocolate w/ Almond and hazelnut praline.
Junmai Arabashiri – This is brewed in the depths of winter and bottled fresh off the press. The aroma suggests melons and pears creating a truly elegant flavor. This is a summer (in my humble opinion) Sake because it’s so light and refreshing. It also goes well with a broad food spectrum, from fresh salads to meat.
Masuizumi Sake Co – www.masuizmi.co.jp: This brewery is located in Toyama, which is a town rich in history and is made every year on the Tai-an, an auspicious day in the Buddhist calendar in October. While this company has a young history relative to other established houses, they are passionate about its commitment to producing the highest quality sake.
Masuizumi Kijyoshu – Kijyoshu is sake made using already completed sake in place of some of the water. Very little is made. It has a rich flavor and goes well with soft fermented cheese like Brie and Camembert, and also jellied consommé.
Masuizumi Junmai Daiginjohshu SP – This sake has the right touch of dryness and sweetness. Each sip helps you discover something new. It’s truly a party in your mouth. Aged in oak barrels this is perfect with a good smoked wild duck, smoked salmon or the dark chocolate Grenache with Gran Marnier.
It was truly a special night and I hope that you all have the opportunity to try these sakes. Do you have a favorite Sake? Did you know that La Maison du Chocolat will help you pair your favorites with their chocolates? This would be a wonderful surprising and elegant finish to your wedding event. Consider it, sip it, enjoy it.
Destination Mexico: Now Sapphire and Now Jade Rivera Cancun – Shining jewels in Mexico
21 May 2012 Leave a Comment
in Bridal, Bride, bridesmaid, Destination, Green, Groom, Groomsmen, Guests, honeymoon, Hotel, location, planning, reality, reception ideas, venue, wedding, wedding planning Tags: International Destination, Mexico
The Now Sapphire Rivera Cancun is the perfect antidote – a fresh enchanting retreat where your relaxation and luxury comes first. Located 15 miles from Cancun Airport this spacious all-suite hotel is great for couples, honeymoons get together with family/friends and of course weddings. According to their info, they have the world’s second largest barrier reef, and offer a wealth of activity and leisure activities with charming villages, shopping, golf, historic and ecological sites nearby.
From Spa sensualities, to suite retreats, you will want for nothing. Your wedding will truly be a magical day and you have the opportunity to choose from two wedding gazebos, ocean front terraces, elegant ballrooms and best, dedicated wedding coordinators and event planners. For more information about this property, www.nowresorts.com -866-NOW-9953
If something a bit more off the path is in order then Now JADE is for you. Gourmet restaurants – check, 24-hour concierge – check, Unlimited premium beverages…Double-check! Prepare yourself to be dazzled, be pampered and live live in the NOW…live and enjoy this moment.
This property is just 12 minutes from and a 10-minute walk from the fishing town of Puerto Morelos. Just another option for the grooms if they want to take a day to go and see what they can ‘catch’. Personally, the barrier reef, provides what can only be described as heaven for snorkelers and divers – - yes you can go for your certification while you are there.
What I adore about both of these properties is the additional amenities they offer – private check in/check-out, Additional living areas, in suite Jacuzzi and complimentary wireless access, just to name a few. This is truly the idyllic immersion with dining opportunities to rival any four-star restaurant stateside.
SO prepare for a delightful diversion and romance in triplicate. This is the time for you both…Moments you deserve…yes, NOW. For more information about this property, 877- NOW-9953 www.nowrestorts.com
Destination Mexico: Rivera Maya Mexico will feed your soul
17 May 2012 Leave a Comment
in Bridal, Bride, bridesmaid, children, Destination, Green, Groom, Groomsmen, Guests, honeymoon, Hotel, location, planning, reality, reception ideas, Traditions, venue, wedding, wedding planning Tags: International Destination, Mexico
The Rivera Maya is a magical destination where the people are friendly, the food great and the value for the dollar is great. In other words, if you are looking for a destination wedding where your hard-earned money will get you far, this is it.
Chapels, gardens, beaches as well as waterfalls all await your arrival. From traditional Mayan ceremonies to underwater ceremonies, you choose and the people of Mexico will deliver.
Choose to have a traditional Kamnikte or Mayan Ceremony and your family and friends will be mesmerized not only by the tradition, but also their participation in the ceremony.
Hotels: Finding a hotel in Mexico won’t be a problem. All are dedicated to making your wedding day a time to remember. In addition these hotels I can personally say have a designated wedding coordinator or wedding staff that will handle your needs.
El Dorado Royal, Ritz Carlton Cancun, Barcelo Deluxe (a personal favorite)
Tip: Check to see if your hotel offers rewards (like Starwood) when you book your wedding and use those points for your return trip.
What is a destination without thing to see and do?
Yes, your guests are there for your big day, they may make a long weekend out of it. So offer some things for them to do. Spa treatments to off-road bikes, zip-lining, deep-sea fishing or just soaking up the sun, your hotel will be happy to help.
Some tour options: X-Caret, Xel-Ha, Congo Bongo
I know you want to make your wedding memorable and mixing your surrounding, culture and feel is great. Why not try these:
Tequila tasting, Barbecue buffet, Late night fireworks, margarita bar, live mariachi band, butterfly release, walking through the town in your wedding dress and letting everyone congratulate you.
Design your own Chuck Taylor sneekers for your wedding shoe
16 May 2012 Leave a Comment
in $ale, Bridal, Bride, bridesmaid, Groom, Groomsmen, Guests, planning, reality, vendor, wedding, wedding planning Tags: shoes
Yes its hi-wedding season and I know that brides and grooms worldwide are looking for ways to personalize their wedding attire…inexpensively. You can do it simply by jazzing up your footwear. Have you ever thought of your partner as your own superhero? Ok, so maybe that’s a stretch, but with Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star DC Comics Design, you can have your pick of batman characters on your feet to protect your wedding against ‘crashers’ or just a bit of fun.
These shoes feature four custom Batman character patterns and the opportunity to include an embroidered hero or villain ankle patch.
Is your ring-bearer scared about dropping the ring, tell him he’s protected by “Batman”. Make sure your best man has a little help with his speech from “The Joker” or “The Riddler”. To make sure everything from your hair to perfectly manicured nails are perrrrrrfect, how about “Cat Woman”?
No worries that they will overshadow your outfit. Pick you color shoe laces, stitching, lining, and personalized ID heel strip, allowing you to create the ultimate personalized shoe. Just like your love, your shoes will be unique.
They take about 3-weeks to be delivered and cost $55 for kids and $75 for adults.
Wine Wednesday: Maker’s Mark hits the mark with delicious eats and treats
16 May 2012 Leave a Comment
in Bridal, Bride, bridesmaid, Food or Drink, Groom, Groomsmen, Guests, perfect pair, planning, reality, reception ideas, vendor, Yummy 4 tummy Tags: Wine Wednesday
There are days when I really love my job and the next few weeks I’m going to share with you, some of the events I’ve attended, food I’ve eaten and of course, the drinks consumed. Today I’m going straight for the guys. Don’t get me wrong, at this tasting there were a few women, but let’s face it, Maker’s Mark, even though I think of it as a ‘sweet whiskey’, it’s traditionally been something men drink. Today I hope to change your mind.
I had the Makers 46, which is aged a bit longer inside the barrels than the normal Makers, & the taste bolder. In other words…I loved it. So try it or at the very least try some of these great and pretty simple recipes made with Makers. I’m sure you’ll be happy you did.
Shrimp Cocktail with Maker’s Mark cocktail sauce
This classic appetizer gets a kick in the pants with a healthy shot of Maker’s Mark to help spice up the cocktail sauce.
Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes
Recipe:
1 recipe Maker’s Mark cocktail sauce (recipe below)
24 pc. Shrimp in shell, u-10
12 cups water
1-1/2 cups dry white wine, such as Riesling
2 lemons juiced
2 bay leaves
10 pieces whole black peppercorn
1 medium onion, peeled, halved and sliced thin 1/4″
1 stalk celery, sliced thin crosswise 1/8″
1 whole leek, washed and sliced thin, white and green
3 medium carrots, peeled, sliced into 1/8″ thick rounds
1/4 cup kosher salt
Lemon wedges, for garnish
Leaving the shell and tail intact, slice down the back of the shrimp, deveining the shrimp.
Bring the water, white wine, lemon juice, bay leaves, peppercorns, onion, celery, leek, carrots and kosher salt to a boil in a large pot. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the brine is flavorful. Strain through a fine mesh sieve into a new pot, discarding the solids.
Bring the stock back up to a simmer. Add the shrimp in shell and stir to submerge the shrimp. Remove the pot from the heat and allow the shrimp to poach for 10 minutes or until fully cooked.
Drain the shrimp and place the shrimp into a large bowl filled with ice. Stir the shrimp with the ice cubes and place the bowl in the freezer until the shrimp have cooled down, about 2-3 minutes.
Peel the shell from the shrimp, leaving the tail intact. Discard the shells. Serve the shrimp ice-cold alongside the Maker’s Mark® cocktail sauce, with fresh lemon wedges.
Maker’s Mark Cocktail Sauce
Makes 1-1/2 cups
2 tablespoons Maker’s Mark Bourbon, flamed off
1 cup Heinz® Ketchup
1 tablespoon TABASCO® Sauce
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup freshly grated horseradish
1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar
Combine all ingredients together in a small bowl. Keep chilled until needed.
Bourbon Marinated Hangar Steak
This easy marinade makes for a distinctly bourbon-flavored steak that is great on top of a salad, alongside stir-fried vegetables or even on a sandwich. I know…you’re thinking Yummy.
Prep Time: 12 hours beforehand Cook Time: 10 minutes
Recipe:
1/2 cup Maker’s Mark® Bourbon
6 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely grated or minced
1 teaspoon garlic, pressed or minced
1 tablespoon shallots, minced
1 pound hangar or skirt steak, trimmed
1/4 cup heavy cream or veal stock (optional)
To make the marinade, combine ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and simmer for 1 minute. Pour the marinade into a shallow dish large enough to hold the meat and set aside to cool.
Add the beef to the cooled marinade, stir to evenly coat and refrigerate overnight for no more than 12 hours.
Dry the beef with paper towels. Heat a large pan/skillet over high heat. Sear the beef 3 minutes on each side for medium rare, remove from the pan and rest meat. Cook down excess marinade as a pan sauce whisking a little cream or veal stock in at the end. Slice and serve.
Maker’s Mark Cupcakes with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
The cupcakes are the perfect spice cake with a nose of bourbon, and the cream cheese frosting makes it hard to eat just one. *Remember these are NOT Child Friendly
Recipe:
1/4 cup Maker’s Mark Bourbon®
1 cup all purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup brown sugar
3 large eggs
1/2 cup molasses
1/4 cup whole milk
Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a cupcake tin with cupcake liners. Sift all dry ingredients together: flour, baking powder, salt, baking soda, cinnamon and nutmeg. Put aside for later use.
Cream the butter and brown sugar. Beat until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, scraping down the bowl after each addition and beating well.
Add the molasses and mix well.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the batter.
Add the Maker’s Mark® Bourbon, stirring well with a spoon/spatula. The batter will look thin and slightly broken. Fill the cupcake liners almost to the top and bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick comes out cleanly when tested.
Allow the cupcakes to cool completely, about 20 minutes, before frosting.
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Makes 2 cups
1-1/2 cups cream cheese (12 ounces), softened to room temperature
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese well, using a wooden spoon or paddle attachment.
Add the softened butter. Continue to beat until well mixed in with the cream cheese.
Add the powdered sugar, cinnamon and salt. Beat until well incorporated. Refrigerate until needed and allow softening at room temperature before using.
