Life

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Distinct Décor

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Every now and then a line comes along that just speaks to me. In this case it's Michael Aram that has found a place in our home. We have a very contemporary style and these compliment our place perfectly.

Think they would be perfect in your home? They are from Joyce's Jewelry Boutique in Morgantown, WV. Give them a call at (304) 599-6981 or message me for more details.

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For Thanksgiving last year, which I typically host, I did about a week's worth of research on "the perfect cheese plate". The information I found was daunting. Amidst all of it, I found a little tid bit that made it all seem very clear:

"Something old, something new, something goat, and something blue".

Below (also Michael Aram) is more of an everything tray. I added prosciutto, walnuts, and honey. The honey always pairs so well with your "something blue". As far as your "something old" I always go the route of an aged Gouda and the "something new" I prefer Bocconcini (fresh mozzarella balls). So, next time you are standing in front of 80 different cheese options wondering what to purchase, this makes it easy!

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“Your home should tell the story of who you are, and be a collection of what you love brought together under one roof.”
— Nate Berkus
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All In The Details

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 One of my favorite things in life is hosting parties. Over the years, I've learned that preparation and attention to detail are everything. My Aunt from the Florida Keys came home and what a perfect party weekend she chose. MK and I already had a little gathering scheduled for Saturday so we just continued on with the fun and had a family soiree the following day.

Sunday morning came and I started prepping. Fresh flowers, premade sangria, and lobster canapés ready to go.

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I am absolutely an appetizer person. As much as I love to gather around my table in front of a big bowl of spaghetti and my family's smiling faces, there is something to be said for mingling and floating around nibbling on some delicious hors d'oeuvres.

Here is my Lobster Canapé recipe:

  • 1 pound lobster
  • 2 tbsp. mayo
  • 2 tsp. fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1/3 cup mango (diced)
  • 1/4 cup celery
  • 2 tbsp. red onion
  • 2 tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro

Throw everything but the cilantro in a bowl and toss. Take a full tablespoon of the mixture and put in on a slice of cucumber or in this case I used a mini phyllo bowl. It adds a nice flakey crunch.

 

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Fresh flowers are the best! Be your gathering inside or out, they really add some elegance. When choosing your flowers pick colors from opposite sides of the color wheel so that they compliment each other.

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Here is Mk and I with the guest of honor. It was so great to have her home.

We will miss her dearly!

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Hitting The Ground Running

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Welcome to one of the busiest weekends that I've experienced in quite some time. A nonstop weekend full of hair, makeup, weddings, and a boudoir shoot. I love getting to be a part of such a special day.  Even though this weekend was more work than play, it was a blast! The wedding we had the privilege of photographing this weekend was so beautiful and we couldn't have asked for a nicer bridal party. 

Sunday morning, I was at it again, doing hair, and airbrushing a beautiful bride in Leachburg. It may have been about an hour and a half to get there but what's better than jamming to some of your favorite music with the top down? 

Without taking a second to breathe, had a trial run with an August bride, followed then by a Boudoir shoot. 

I've always been a fan of hats, good thing I wear a lot of them!

Have an event coming up? Look like you just stepped off the beach by mixing liquid bronzer with a firming body cream, then massage it into your arms. It'll temporarily tighten your skin and give it a sunkissed glow.

 

Until next time...