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Easy New Year's Eve Party Ideas

2010-12-30T09:45:00.000-08:00

Real Simple keeps it super simple with great New Year's Eve party ideas

Plan Games:

Make light of New Year’s resolutions by turning them into a guessing game. Give partygoers cards (download the New Year Playing Cards) and have guests finish the sentences with hopeful wishes―or tongue-in-cheek witticisms. Gather the cards, read them aloud randomly, then let the gang try to figure out who wrote what.
Print cards with these fill-in-the-blanks: "The bad habit I want to kick this year is ―――." "The good deed I want to do this year is ―――." "The person I want to be more like this year is ―――." "The skill I want to learn this year is ―――."

Provisions:

Snacks: Let guests nibble on hearty little bites, as well as tidbits from gourmet markets, such as Bella Cucina Artichoke Lemon Pesto, Food Should Taste Good Olive Tortilla Chips, Sahale Soledad Almonds, and Tillen Farms Pickled Crispy Carrots.
Drinks: For a refreshing alternative to Champagne, try Prosecco or nonalcoholic Twelve, a fizzy blend of fruit and herbal tea (twelvebeverage.com).
Dessert: Chocolate Bar Fondue with fruit and pound cake for dipping, in a fondue pot.
Favors: Give guests parting gifts of good fortune. Pack up black-eyed peas (which bring good luck, according to southern tradition) in a box or cellophane bag and a recipe.

And more....... check our Real Simple

Wrap It Up With Friends

2010-12-18T09:47:00.000-08:00

From Real Simple

Here is a fun gathering to visit and get your Holiday presents wrapped!

The Party at a Glance
How it works: You provide wrapping supplies and food. Ask each guest to bring some presents to wrap and one roll of paper so you have a variety.

Whom to invite: Three to five friends. It’s the perfect time to catch up―and escape nosy family members. Invitation or e-mail? E-mail. Or, even better, Evite. Try Real Simple’s new customizable Free Evite Party Invitations from Real Simple (it’s free).

What to serve: Red Pepper Frittata Squares and Oven Fries With Garlic Aioli are satisfying and need little hands-on time. You can pull them together the night of the party. Find out how to get it all done.

Pumpkin Cupcakes

2010-10-24T21:24:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

This is such and easy recipe to make and it is a real crowd pleasure:

Ingredients
1 18.5-ounce box yellow cake mix (plus the ingredients called for in the package directions)
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree
2 8-ounce bars cream cheese, at room temperature
2 cups confectioners’ sugar
24 pieces candy corn

Directions
Heat oven to 350° F. Line two 12-cup muffin tins with paper liners. Prepare the cake mix as directed but with the following change: Add the pumpkin pie spice and substitute the can of pumpkin puree for the water called for in the package directions.
Divide the batter among the prepared muffin tins and bake until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean, 18 to 22 minutes. Let cool.
Meanwhile, using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese and sugar until creamy. Spread on the cupcakes and top each with a piece of candy corn.

From: Real Simple

Candy Challenge

2010-10-14T16:21:00.000-07:00

Real Simple Weekly Eblast had this to say about which Halloween Candy was better to eat. Check it out and test your knowledge.

Which Halloween Candy Is Healthier? By Kate Rope
Halloween can be scary if you’re trying to eat wisely. See if you can pick the better choice of paired-up treats in our Halloween Candy Challenge.

Labor Day Travel

2010-08-31T16:00:00.000-07:00

Manners or the lack there of has been in the new a lot, so we decided to post different ways to rekindle the use of good manners.
With Labor Day arriving this weekend, many people travel to take advantage of the long weekend.

This is a blog posting from Lisa Gache from Beverly Hills Manners, who notes some valid points regarding travel:

So how to enjoy the flying experience when we are bombarded with so many negative elements that make it virtually impossible? Here are a few helpful reminders to restore safety and civility and set us soaring in the friendly skies once more.
1. Dress for yourself and your fellow passengers. I don't care if you're flying to the Caribbean or Hawaii, forget the flip flops and short shorts and put on something decent for the plane! Years ago, passengers and flight attendants would "dress" for flying. It was all very civilized. Over time, comfort became the norm and all of the sudden everyone started looking disheveled. Nowadays, it is entirely possible to appear quite chic while still being comfortable. When it comes to shoes, select something closed toe and easy to slip off at the security gate. Don't forget to wear socks. Nothing is worse than stepping barefoot on the airport flooring. Wear deodorant, but go easy on the cologne and perfume. It's a good idea to pack some lip ointment and hand creme to combat dry skin. Ladies, put a little lipstick on for goodness sake! You never know who you're going to meet on a plane.
2. Take a chill pill. If you have a severe aversion to standing or waiting in line, do not fly! Unless you hire a special airport greeter or are flying business or first, you must be patient and grin and bear the cattle calls. Getting agitated only makes matters worse. Bring a magazine or book so you can read passively while waiting to check your bags or go through security. To pass the time, you can always fill out your luggage tag. Keep your identification card handy as well as your boarding ticket. You will be asked to show proof of both repeatedly.
3. Be prepared for small annoyances. There is no way to avoid the safety ritual of walking through security. Everyone must remove their shoes and jackets and risk a pat down by a security officer. To make things easier, wear shoes and outer garments that are easily removed and quickly organize your belongings and place them in the open containers for the x-ray machine. Make sure to separate your laptop in its own container for easy viewing. Remove all jewelry and accessories that may set off the alarm.
4. Avoid confrontation. Make it easier on yourself as well as the flight attendant by not attempting to stuff your entire closet into your carry-on luggage. If you cannot lift your bag and place it in the overhead bin on your own, the flight attendant will be forced to help you and may question its size or weight, especially if they see you struggling to jam it into a small compartment. Avoid going down this road and either pack lighter, check your bag or call a delivery service like FedEx to deliver your bag door to door in advance. It's not worth getting in to an argument on this one, the airlines will always win.
5. Respect personal space. In this tube 30,000 ft. in the air, everything is exaggerated. Some people do not wish to engage and prefer keeping quietly to themselves. Be respectful towards those around you and read their signals. (a) If you are bringing your own food on to the plane, keep it simple. Do not stink up the plane with smelly cheeses or a really pungent dish. (b) If someone is reading a magazine or book, do not engage them in conversation as they may not wish to be disturbed. (c) If you are tired, rest your weary head on your own chair with your blanket and use only one armrest for your arms. (d) Make sure to use the restroom before being seated to avoid musical chairs throughout the flight. (e) Before reclining your seat abruptly, check behind you to give your fellow passenger a heads up. They will appreciate it.6. Curb the cell phone conversation. There is nothing that equally worries and annoys fellow passengers and flight attendants alike than someone who chooses to completely ignore the FAA's rule to turn off all cell phones and other electronic equipment while in-flight. The jury is still out as to whether the radio signals from these devices can interfere with flying equipment so for the safety of everyone, cut it out and follow the rules!!!7. Check yourself, not just your bags. If you are in a bad mood, take a few breaths and calm down. The airport and flying experience is hard enough without the attitude. Present a cheerful face, always be courteous saying "please" and "thank you" and be helpful and accommodating. This will smooth over any extenuating circumstance or accidental wrong-doing.

From: Lisa Gache Beverly Hills Manners Blog

Cinco de Mayo

2010-05-04T13:16:00.001-07:00

Here are just a few crowd pleasers for your Cinco de Mayo fiesta!
Chicken Flautas
Cranberry Margarita
Flan

Let us know your tips or favorites for a Cinco de Mayo celebration!

Easter Sugar Eggs

2010-03-31T16:25:00.000-07:00

This is fun idea for almost all ages is brought to you by Celebrations. The sugar eggs can be incorporated into your Easter tablescape as a grouping to form a centerpiece or as a placecard for each guests, the possibilities are numerous.

Happy Sugaring!

Preparation
Materials for 2 to 4 eggs:
· 3 cups granulated sugar
· 4 teaspoons water
· Red and yellow food coloring (to make pink and yellow eggs)
· Plastic eggs that are split in half lengthwise to use as molds
· Assorted colors cake decorator icing; buy tubes that come with decorator tips
· Little hard-sugar flowers and Easter shapes

Steps
· Divide sugar into 2 large mixing bowls (1 1/2 cups of sugar in each bowl).
· Dilute red food coloring in 2 teaspoons of water and mix into sugar in one bowl. Dilute yellow food coloring in remaining 2 teaspoons of water and mix into sugar in the other bowl. Mix sugar in each bowl until thoroughly moistened and color is throughout sugar.
· Fill the plastic eggshell halves with the colored sugar. Make a top half and bottom half using the same sugar color for each egg. Pack the sugar firmly into the eggshells. Use a teaspoon to lightly scoop out the sugar in the center so the sugar layer is about a centimeter thick inside the entire eggshell mold.
· Use the tip of your finger to scrape out a dime sized amount of sugar from the narrower end of the sugar egg in the mold to create a little peephole.
· Place a sheet of wax paper on a flat surface. Gently invert the sugar-filled mold on to the wax paper, open side down. Tap the mold and carefully pull the mold away from the sugar egg half to unmold the egg. Repeat the process with remaining sugar eggs. If the sugar doesn't hold its egg shape after you pull off the mold, repeat the process from the beginning and add a tiny bit more water to the entire mixture.
· Allow sugar eggs to harden overnight or until sugar is completely dry. Keep the drying sugar eggs in a cool dark place until you are ready to use them and do not touch eggs until they are hard.
· Decorate the bottom half of the eggs first. Pipe decorator icing inside the egg to hold hard sugar flowers or Easter shapes in place. Use green icing to make grass blades or whatever color you like for a colorful scene.
· To assemble the eggs: Pipe a thick strip of decorator icing on the rim of the bottom sugar egg half and place the matching top sugar egg on top to make a whole egg. The decorator icing will hold the eggs together. Use a fancy decorator tip to finish off the outside of the egg by piping around the seam and the peephole. Add hard sugar flowers on top of the egg for a pretty touch. Allow icing to dry before handling the eggs.

Shamrock Story

2010-03-09T11:47:00.000-08:00

Did you know.....

· Not only is the shamrock a St. Patrick's Day icon, it is registered with the World Intellectual Property Organization as a trademark of the Government of Ireland. For the record, the official symbol of Ireland is the Irish harp and the shamrock is the national flower.

· Many believe that the word "shamrock" was derived from the Gaelic word for the clover, "seamróg."

· Since the 1990s, the Irish Taoiseach, similar to the British Prime Minister, usually visits the White House on or around St. Patrick's Day and presents a shamrock to the President of the United States. Another presentation is typically made to the Speaker of the House.

· Apparently, the shamrock was used for medicinal purposes in Victorian times, although its exact application and remedies are unclear. Contemporary herbalists have been known to use Red Clover as a treatment for coughs, skin problems, and relief of menopausal symptoms.

· While many confuse the shamrock, a 3-leaf clover, with the lucky 4-leaf clover, both can be used to "get lucky" on St. Patrick's Day. Ancient Celtics believed the number 3 to be both sacred and magical in that the 3 heart-shaped leaves on the shamrock were associated with the Triple Mothers of Celtic mythology, also known as the "Three Morgans."
And then there are the sayings, "great things come in threes," or "third time's a charm," to further the power of 3 and back up the shamrock as a symbol for luck.
Thanks to Jeanne Benedict from Celebrations.

King Cake

2010-02-15T15:50:00.001-08:00

Fat Tuesday is tomorrow and here is a little history on the most important element to any Mardi Gras party - THE KING CAKE

Mardi Gras celebration is complete without a King Cake, also known as Twelfth Night Cake. This cake is actually a sweetened yeast bread, usually baked in a ring shape. The cake is frosted with gold, green, and purple icing representing in order, power, faith, and justice. The traditional colors on the King Cake date back to 1872. They were taken from a prominent parade group, called a krewe. Although this cake is colorful and tasty, the real fun hides within the cake.
The maker of each King Cake hides a token in the cake. The tokens used are a dried red bean or a figurine of a baby, representing the Christ child. When the cake is cut and shared, the finder of the hidden treasure is said to enjoy good luck for the coming year. The lucky recipient may also be expected to bake the King Cake or throw the Mardi Gras party for the following year.
As they say in New Orleans, Laissez le bon temps rouler, or Let the good times roll!

article from: about.com

Groundhog Day

2010-02-01T21:38:00.000-08:00

Happy Groundhog Day!

The day a little groundhog determines if we get to bear through a longer winter or celebrate an early spring. Either way, it is reason to gather and celebrate. Need an idea? Well.... how about gathering in front of the TV to watch Groundhog Day on DVD starring Bill Murray. This hilarious movie is fun for all ages.

So you might be thinking..... well that sounds great, but what do I serve. Simple, you serve popcorn. There are so many varieties and flavors to serve. Go to your local party supply store and purchase popcorn holders or if you want to keep it real simple, brown bag it.

Write each guests name on each bag and have them create a concoction in their own bag.

Here is just one recipe idea for gourmet popcorn:

Chocolate-Peanut Popcorn

20 cups air-popped popcorn

2 cups salted peanuts, divided

1 1/2 cups sugar

3/4 cup butter

1/2 cup corn syrup

3 tablespoons water

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Preheat oven to 250 degrees

Place popcorn and 1 cups peanuts in a large roasting pan, set aside.

In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, butter, corn syrup, water and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until mixture reaches 260 degrees, without stirring. Add cocoa, vanilla, and baking soda, stirring to combine.

Working quickly, pour sugar mixture over popcorn mixture, stirring until popcorn is evenly coated. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. Immediately spread popcorn on to parchment paper to cool. Sprinkle with remaining 1 cup peanuts. Store in airtight container.

(recipe from Celebrate, Phyllis Hoffman)

Comfort Food Potluck Party

2010-01-15T12:40:00.000-08:00

Get Comfy!

With the weather still very chilly outside, it make me want to stay home any eat things that are warm and comforting. So, how about a Comfort Food Potluck Party.

Here is a list of the Top 25 comfort foods:
• Apple Pie• Baked Beans• Banana Pudding• Beef Stew• Brisket Pot Roast• Chicken & Dumplings• Chicken Pot Pie• Chicken Soup• Chili• Chocolate Chip Cookies• Corn on the Cob• Fried Chicken• Gelatin• Green Bean Casserole• Hot Dogs• Ice Cream• Macaroni & Cheese• Mashed Potatoes• Meatloaf• Potato Salad• Pumpkin Pie• Shepherd's Pie• Spaghetti• Tomato Soup• Tuna Casserole.

Have each of your guests bring a dish from this list or have them bring their own favorite comfort food.
The list is endless as far as what type of invitation to send depending on the amount to time you have. Some suggestion are: A cutout of a bowl of chicken soup with the information about the party in the middle. Wrap up a chocolate chip cookie in a small cellophane bag with a tag tied to it with all the party details.
You can go one step further and have your guests arrive in their most comfortable clothes (sweats, flannel pants, pajamas, robes, slippers etc...)
For the table, keep it simple. Use a very warm colors to set an soothing ambiance. If it is a girls friends gathering occasion, create a spa like ambiance with lots of candlelight, soft colors of orange, yellow, light blue, soft pink etc. Fresh flowers could be a nice touch too, but don't over do it.

The whole idea of this gathering is to create a warm and cozy ambiance for your guest to enjoy while they are warming their sole with comfort food.
Send us your favorite comfort food idea or recipe!

Stay tuned to more ideas on gathering during the winter season. Visit us at www.tableambiance.com for table setting and entertaining ideas.

Warm up With Hot Cocoa

2010-01-11T12:28:00.000-08:00

The weather in Northern California has been constistently cold for weeks. So what better way to warm your body and heart with good ole hot cocoa. Here are some of the recipes we've tried and like.

Mocha Hot Cocoa: Phyllis Hoffman

Ingredients:

3 cups milk

3 cups half-and-half

8.8 oz dark chocolate hot cocoa mix

1/4 cup expresso powder

1/4 cup coffee-flavored liqueur

Garnish: Whipped cream, expresso powder, chocolate covered coffee bean.

In medium saucepan, combine milk and half-and-half. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat. Whisk in cocoa mix and espresso powder. Add coffee liqueur, stirring to combine. Garnish, if desired.

Fluffy Hot Chocolate: allrecipe.com

Ingredients

• 8 teaspoons sugar

• 4 teaspoons baking cocoa

• 4 cups milk
• 1 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions: In a saucepan, combine the first four ingredients. Cook and stir over medium heat until the marshmallows are melted, about 8 minutes. Remove from the heat; stir in vanilla. Ladle into mugs.

Hot Chocolate: Barefoot Contessa

Ingredients
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk

• 2 cups half-and-half

• 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped

• 4 ounces milk chocolate, chopped

• 1 tablespoon sugar • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon instant espresso or coffee powder

• 4 to 5 vanilla beans or cinnamon sticks, for garnish

Directions : Heat the milk and half-and-half in a saucepan on medium heat to just below the simmering point. Remove the pan from the heat and add both chocolates. When the chocolates are melted, add the sugar, vanilla extract, and espresso and whisk vigorously. Reheat gently and serve immediately. Use a vanilla bean or cinnamon stick to garnish each serving.

We hope these help ease those cold winter days. Happy sipping!

New Year's Activity - Time Capsule

2009-12-31T13:10:00.000-08:00

A new decade approaches, and here is the ideal activity that New Year Eve party goers of all ages can participate in: Create a Time Capsule.

Find a container to hold all the contents (shoe box, large leftover Christmas gift box, empty popcorn tin, etc..)

Paper or pieces of paper and pens/pencils to write down events that happen during the year that are on a personal level or national level, prices of everyday items (gasoline, gallon of milk, butter...) or what music and movies were popular in 2009.

Add some photos of family members and friends or items and memento's from a vacation or event.

Find a save and secure place to store your capsule with a 'Do Not Open Until 2020'.

These are just some suggestions of capsule items to get you started. Send us more suggestions or what was it like to make or create your time capsule this New Year's Eve.

Happy New Year to everyone, and we look forward to new and upcoming postings in the new year.

Cheers!

Carole and Angela, Table Ambiance

Auld Lang Syne?

2009-12-30T12:45:00.000-08:00

Ever wonder what the famous New Year's Song meant? Thanks to Lisa Gache from
Beverly Hills Manners has some insight.

The words to "Auld Lang Syne" are pretty obscure to most of us, yet we sing them with pride on New Year's Eve. The Scottish phrase literally translates to 'Old Long Ago' and encourages us to think about days passed. The lyrics also refer to kindness ('We'll take a Cup of Kindness yet') and conjure up positive images of everyone getting along and creating a happy future.

These final days of 2009 are perfect for taking stock of the past. Reviewing our good deeds and our not so good deeds. Who we wronged and who we helped. Who we slighted and who we were generous towards. Were we kind or were we cruel? Did we cheat ourselves out of an experience or did we try our best? What were the ramifications of our actions? Did it serve us or did it do us a disservice? This is all good information to ponder before ringing in a new year.

So before New Year's Eve approaches, sit down and write a list of resolutions for yourself. Then add a list of manners resolutions. These can be purely aspirational because, after all, we are human and make mistakes. The important part is to focus on being more aware and trying to change. Below I have compiled a list of manners resolutions that I aspire to live by. Feel free to use these as a starting point or as your complete guide.

Finally, stop thinking of manners as some dated, dusty set of rules from days long ago. Manners never get old, they are never out of style and they are never irrelevant. On the contrary, manners are insanely important and frankly they are a nice change from the salacious, gratituous, frivilous world we live in today. So embrace your new manners in 2010!!!

Hurry... Items are going fast!

2009-12-28T09:51:00.000-08:00

It is that time of year again when we close up the season with our end of year clearance sale! Click here to see all the items on sale for incredible prices.

Cookie Party: Fun for All Ages

2009-12-12T10:12:00.000-08:00

My mom started having a cookie party for all her grandchildren and her friend’s grandchildren. It has been a holiday tradition for over 10 years running. All the children (even the teenagers) look forward to it every year.
It is a great activity to really get you into the holiday spirit. It allows adults to catch and chat while the kids are having fun creating confection masterpieces.
To get started, send out your invitations. If you are short on time, log onto evite.com to get a cookie party invitation out fast.
You can buy all the necessary decorating items (sprinkles, icing, candy etc) at your local grocery store or craft store, like Michaels). We have found that the easiest and less messy idea is to make one big batch of royal icing. Separate it into squeeze bottles (available at restaurant supply stores or Michael’s) and color it with food coloring.
A Royal Icing Recipe:

1 lb confectioners sugar 3 Tb. egg white powder½ tsp lemon extract (optional).
Mix altogether, add 1 tablespoon of water (or more) to reach the consistency you want. Beat approximately 6 minutes)

One of our favorite sugar cookie recipe is from Martha Stewart:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1 cup sugar
1 large egg, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons brandy, or milk
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1. Whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder in a medium bowl. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream butter and sugar; add dry ingredients, and mix until incorporated. With mixer running, add egg, brandy (or milk), and vanilla; mix until incorporated.
2. Transfer dough to a work surface. Shape into 2 discs, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line baking sheets with nonstick baking mats or parchment paper; set aside.
4. On a lightly floured work surface, roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes, and transfer to prepared baking sheets, leaving an inch in between. Leftover dough can be rolled and cut once more. Bake until lightly golden, about 10 minutes; do not allow to brown. Transfer to wire racks to cool.

Another helpful hint is to have your guests bring their own container or box, so they can easily transport their wonderful cookies home.
If you have any holiday traditions, please let us know! Send us an email so we can share it with our blogging community.
Stay tuned for Holiday Entertaining Ideas for guests of all ages.

Visit our website for more Holiday Table Decor.

Get Into The Spirit

2009-12-11T13:19:00.000-08:00

This fun cocktail from Martha Stewart is sure to get you into the Holiday Spirit!

Candy Cane Cocktail

Ingredients
1 candy cane, crushed for garnish,
2 ounces strawberry vodka
4 dashes white creme de menthe
2 1/2 ounces cranberry juice Ice cubes

Directions:
1. Place crushed candy canes on a small plate or saucer. Wet the outside rim of a chilled martini glass with water. Holding the glass by the stem, rotate the rim to coat with candy. 2. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, creme de menthe, cranberry juice, and ice; shake until well combined. Strain into prepared glass; serve immediately.
Visit our website http://www.tableambiance.com/ for holiday table setting ideas.

Holiday Manners

2009-12-01T13:25:00.000-08:00

December 1st has arrived and the Holiday Celebrations begin. Thanks to Lisa Gache from Bevery Hills Manners who provides tips on proper manners for the holidays.

Good manners and proper etiquette are appreciated throughout the year, but even more so during the holiday season when expectations are at an all time high. This is a special time to bond with family, share in special activities, help one another, be charitable, and tolerant. To make the holidays nicer for all, here are 9 quick tips to guarantee a stress free and joyous holiday season!

1. Eat, Sleep & Be Merry. A hungry stomach or a tired body is a recipe for holiday party disaster. Schedules tend to be packed during the holiday season leaving little or no downtime to recharge batteries. Avoid any pitfalls by making sure everyone gets plenty of rest and eats a light snack before attending any holiday celebration.

2. Dress for Party Success. Dress appropriately for the occasion. If your family is attending a party at a ski chalet then a pair of clean jeans, a parka and Uggs will suffice. However, if the holiday gathering is a more formal affair then party attire, in the form of a dress or a nice pant suit, is a wise choice.

3. On the Road. On your way to the party, make sure to review any rules such as the type of holiday party you will be celebrating, who will be attending, what kind of food will be served, and any special activities your family may be asked to participate in.

4. Arrive on Time & Bearing Gifts. Your hosts are looking forward to your arrival so avoid being late and make preparations ahead of time. Select your attire beforehand, make sure all gifts are wrapped and a proper note has been written, map out your route and write down a contact phone number in case of an emergency.

5. Essential Holiday Table Manners. (a) Wait to be seated until everyone has arrived at the table. (b) Follow the lead of your host or hostess for everything. (c) Place your napkin on your lap. (d) Pass all trays of food to the right and all condiments in pairs. (e) Make pleasant table conversation with the person on your right and your left. (f) Chew with your mouth closed. (g) Wipe your mouth before taking a drink. (h) At the end of the meal, place your utensils in the finished position on your plate and your napkin loosely on the left side of your plate. (i) Ask to please be excused.

6. Clean-Up & Be Invited Again. If you are attending a sit down dinner celebration with family or with friends, offer to pitch in. This will guarantee future invitations.

7. Gracious Gift Receiving. Graciously accept all gifts whether they already have them or not. Focus on something positive to say. For example, if you do not like a gift, you do not need to say they do. You can simply say "thank you" or "how nice of you to think of me". Being polite always pays in dividends.

8. Departures. Designate an agreed upon beginning and end time with your family to prevent any misunderstandings when it comes time to leave the house or return from a party.

9. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You! A phone call or, better yet, a hand-written note of thanks to your holiday party hosts shows your appreciation for all their hard work. If you've thanked someone in person for a gift, a thank-you note isn't obligatory. But, it is never wrong to write a thank-you note. If you receive gifts from family members that you won't see to thank in person, write them a thank-you note-both to let them know their gift arrived and that you liked it.

The best way to alleviate stress from the holidays is to do something charitable. Look into your local organizations to see how you can donate your time to those in need. Offer to serve a holiday meal, hang decorations, bake cookies, read stories or sing holiday songs. Set a good example for your children while doing something fun and inspiring for the whole family. Take a moment to realize how lucky you are and be thankful for all that you have.

For Holiday Table and Home Decor Ideas, visit us at TableAmbiance.com

Thanksgiving Cocktail

2009-11-20T17:12:00.001-08:00

A fresh and festive cocktail to toast with this Thanksgiving.
Ingredients:

- 1 part Grey Goose La Poire flavored vodka

- 1 part pumpkin butter

- 1/2 part triple sec

- 1/2 part simple syrup

- Pinch of cinnamon, clove, nutmeg and ginger

- Grated nutmeg and apple chip for garnish

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice add all ingredients. Shake vigorously until the outside of the shaker is frosted and beaded with sweat. Strain into a martini glass. Garnish with nutmeg and apple chip or a fresh cranberries on a toothpick.

Recipe from Cocktailtimes.com

Don't panic, you still have plenty of time to plan/prepare for Thanksgiving. For table setting ideas visit us at www.tableambiance.com

Simple Thanksgiving

2009-11-17T20:50:00.000-08:00

Let's K.I.S.S

Let’s K.I.S.S (keep it simple, stupid) this Thanksgiving. The most importantly thing to do on Thanksgiving Day is to remember or reflect on the things you are thankful for. So, in the kitchen and on your table, keep it simple. Start planning your meal with “make ahead” recipes or invite your guests to help with the Thanksgiving feast by bringing a dish or two to ease the load on you. Set your table ahead of time. If you are worried about dust, cover the table setting with plastic wrap or dry cleaning bags. Visit our past Thanksgiving blog postings for simple ideas (i.e. an array of fall squashes arranged in a low profile basket, or use mini pumpkins as votive holder and have several of them down the center of your table).

Post your favorite simple yet effective idea for hosting Thanksgiving in our comment box. (photo from countryliving.com)

Easy Thankgiving Centerpieces

2009-11-13T13:57:00.000-08:00

Here are a few ideas to add a little ambiance to your table this Thanksgiving!
The pumpkin arrangement is from www.bhg.com. Make a few of these arrangements and place them down the center of your table. To add some height to the center, simpley add two of these great fruit/vegetable taper holder. Stick a pear or pumpkin in the middle and add a 9 inch taper to it and ta da, an easy yet unique table setting for Thanksgiving.
Another idea is to place a worry free pillar candle in a hurricane vase with nuts and add two pumpkin arrangements on either side of the hurricane for this years Thanksgiving table setting. It is that easy. Happy table setting!

Thanksgiving Project

2009-11-11T09:53:00.000-08:00

Get the Kids Involved This Thanksgiving!

This cute yet fun project is brought to you by Celebration.com. Most kids love to help, so put them to work in helping add to the Thanksgiving table decor!

Now for a little Table Ambiance touch.....Not only do these pilgrim hats look delicious for dessert, they might also make for a perfect place card or party favor. Have the kids gather leaves outside and clean them with a damp cloth. Then have them write each guests name on the edge of each leaf with a gold metallic pen. Put a leaf in the center of each plate at each guest's place setting. Then place the hat in the middle of the leaf. Not only will each guest find their spot at this years Thanksgiving table, but they will have an amusing treat.

Plan Ahead This Thanksgiving

2009-11-10T13:35:00.001-08:00

Plan ahead this Thanksgiving will make this holiday virtually stress-free. Susan Westmoreland from Good Housekeeping has created a two week check list to follow to in sure a celebration that even the hostess will enjoy.

For table setting ideas and products for this Thanksgiving, visit us at http://tableambiance.com/home.php?cat=112.

Make a Wish This Thanksgiving

2009-11-09T15:49:00.000-08:00

Make a wish.............

With Thanksgiving around the corner, who gets to break the wishbone from the Thanksgiving turkey? Well...... everyone can get a chance this year. Lucky Break Wishbone has created a fun product that allowes everyone of all ages to enjoy making a wish on the wishbone.

How can you incorporate this into your table decor? Easy... tie a wishbone around everyone's napkin at each place setting or stand it up against the beverage glass.

Surviving Halloween

2009-10-28T13:14:00.000-07:00

Here are some great tips for this Halloween........

Halloween Etiquette - Tricks for Surviving the Night of Fright!

From: Lisa Gache - Beverly Hill Mannners

Halloween can be a wonderful and fun-filled time not only for the little ones, but also for adults. There are some basic etiquette rules however, that we all need to observe to ensure the safety and enjoyment of everyone. Here are a few essential tips on how to survive the night of fright!
Trick-or-Treating. This is truly a tradition reserved for younger children who look forward each year to dressing up in their favorite costumes and going door to door to receive unlimited amounts of sugary treats. A child who has reached the age of sixteen or seventeen should retire their pumpkin candy bag for good. Begin trick or treating at dusk while their is still some light for safety. Try not to crowd or stampede the doorways for candy. Teach your children to be patient and polite and to remember the all important "please" when they ask for a treat and "thank you" when they receive it. There is nothing like seeing a ghost or goblin at your front door with impeccable manners.
Neighborhoods. It is perfectly acceptable to travel outside one’s own neighborhood, particularly, for children who live in a hillside neighborhood without sidewalks or for children who may be living in a neighborhood that is less than child-friendly. However, if you do decide to leave your neighborhood, the next best thing is to trick-or-treat in a neighborhood that you are familiar with or that is the neighborhood of a friend. If a house is dark and all the lights are turned off, this is the unwritten signal that the family is not participating in the ritual or may not even be at home.
Costumes. As far as costumes for children, the general rule is that they be kid-friendly. Politically incorrect outfits or very scary horror costumes are not considered appropriate. Older teens and adults may choose to let their wild imagination get the best of them, however, etiquette dictates that whatever they choose, they should try to be considerate of others and their environment. Ask yourself one simple question, "Is my costume disrespectful or would it offend or scare another person at the party"? If the answer is yes, then find an alternate choice. Oftentimes, we think only about ourselves and not of others.
General Halloween Etiquette Tips. Halloween is a perfect “training” time to teach your children to take only one candy and be sure to say “thank you”. After just a few visits, your two year old will be an expert! At least one parent should accompany children up to at least the age of twelve. Make sure to speak with children about general safety rules, staying with their group, and if older, curfew time. Parents should check the treats of the younger children before they eat them. Children should never eat anything that is handmade or specially prepared (unless you know the family).

Looking to make your Halloween complete? Visit www.tableambiance.com for howlish Halloween home and table decor.

Halloween Cocktail

2009-10-27T13:17:00.000-07:00

Halloween is the perfect time to partake in the spirits!

Dracula's Kiss

Ingredients: 1 oz black cherry vodka ,1/2 oz grenadine, cola maraschino cherries for garnish

Preparation: 1. Coat the bottom of a highball glass with grenadine. 2. Add ice and vodka. 3. Fill with cola. 4. Garnish with cherries.

Cocktail recipe from: http://cocktails.about.com/od/vodkadrinkrecipes/r/draculas_kiss.htm

Visit our website for Halloween home and table decor to make this Halloween one to remember: www.tableambiance.com

Creepy Halloween Treat

2009-09-30T16:01:00.001-07:00

We just loved this Halloween Treat from the Food Network. These creepy yet yummy spiders would be a fun addition down or around the center of your Halloween table setting. Or make them an edible place card (write each guests name on a sticker and wrap one end of the sticker to a toothpick and place the toothpick into the spider) to welcome or frighten each guest at the table. Enjoy!

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups toasted pecans
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, in pieces
1/4 teaspoon salt
5 ounces thin black licorice strands, cut into 2-inch pieces
6 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
4 ounces milk chocolate, chopped
Chocolate curls or jimmies, optional
Directions
Line 2 baking sheets with waxed paper and lightly spray with nonstick spray. Mound 30 small clusters of pecans, about 3 or 4 pecans each, spaced a couple inches apart on the pan.
Make caramel: Warm the cream over low heat and keep warm while you cook the sugar.
Put the sugar and corn syrup and in a deep, heavy-bottomed large saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Stop stirring, raise heat to medium-high, and simmer until the sugar reaches the hard crack stage, or 305 degrees F on a candy thermometer, about 7 minutes.
Whisk the butter and salt into the sugar mixture. Gradually pour in the cream and vanilla taking care since the mixture will bubble up. Reduce the heat to medium and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar reaches soft ball stage, 240 degrees F on the thermometer, about 5 minutes more. Immediately remove from the heat and cool for a minute.
Ladle a couple tablespoons of warm caramel over some of the nut clusters, to make the spider bodies. Then press 6 pieces of licorice into the warm caramel to make the legs. Repeat with the remaining caramel and licorice. (It's helpful to have an extra hand here, since the caramel can set quickly. If caramel hardens, warm over very low heat. ) Let spiders cool 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, put the chocolates in a medium heatproof bowl. Bring a saucepan filled with 1-inch or so of water to a very slow simmer; set the bowl over, but not touching, the water. Stir the chocolate occasionally until melted and smooth. (Alternatively, put the chocolate in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Melt at 50 percent power in the microwave until soft, about 1 minute. Stir, and continue heat until completely melted, 2 to 3 minutes more.)
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of melted chocolate on top of each spider. Sprinkle with jimmies or chocolate curls, if desired. Let cool until firm.
Recipe from: 2007 Television Food Network, G.P.

Harvest Time

2009-09-28T13:56:00.000-07:00

Here in the Northbay, Sonoma County has the Harvest Fair. At this weekend event, held every year on the first weekend in October, it celebrates the variety of amazing wines and foods produced here locally. Hundreds of people gather the last weekend in September at the Harvest Fair Awards Night Gala to see who the big winners are in the wine and food industry. This year's winners of the sweepstakes prize (the highest honor given) went to Adler Fels of Santa Rosa for its 2007 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir ($25.00) and Owl Ridge Wines of Sebastopol for its 2008 Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc ($12.00).

What does this have to do with Table Ambiance....... Well, we thought with all the amazing wines (and foods) that are introduced during this Harvest time it is a prime time to entertain - Host a wine tasting party for friends and/or family, and get their opinions on different wines.

Not sure how? We have a new and fun product called MusicCooks - Wine Tasting. It is a box set filled with fun and easy recipes (along with photos), instructions on how to host a wine tasting, and it also includes a shopping or pantry list for your convenience. To top it off, it includes a CD filled with Wine Country music (a blend of bluegrass, classical jazz, and country). This little box is everything you need to impress your wine tasting guests, but it will be our secret!

Fall Season is Here.......

2009-09-22T19:26:00.000-07:00

Happy First Day of Fall

This is our favorite time of year, even though here is Northern California the weather sure isn't feeling very fallish. This time of year is full of rich colors to choose from and wonderful fall foods and recipes to entertain with. And of course, don't forget the numerous reasons to entertain the season. Stay tuned to see some of Table Ambiance's fall entertaining ideas.

Ideas for Fall Decorating
Quick Fall Centerpiece
Create a stress-free centerpiece by setting several pumpkins or gourds on the table. This arrangement contains them on a long white platter, but a low basket or tray would work just as well. Garnish with a few leaves, berry clusters, or flowers to add a bit of color and texture.

Courtesy of :www.bhg.com

Labor Day Party Idea

2009-08-31T16:32:00.000-07:00

END OF SUMMER PARTY
Some of might know that Labor Day marks the end of summer! Even though for those of us living in Northern California we are finally getting our summer weather. The old tradition was no more white apparel after Labor Day, so we thought it would be fun to have a party that is very monochromatic……all white. Well, almost all white.
This is another perfect opportunity to entertain outside especially if you are experiencing an Indian summer with wonderful evening weather.
Send out an invitation using evite.com to spread the word about your fabulous Labor Day celebration.
Mention to your guests to wear all white to your party.
To create a simple yet elegant ambiance for your party, our new favorite item is the paper lanterns that are found an almost any party store or if you live in the North Bay Cost Plus World Market carries a variety of shapes and sizes.

For your table, keep it simple. Use white table cloths or placemats, white dinner plates, and clear wine or water glasses. However, it might be fun to add just a bit of color on the table using a colored napkin placed the center of each dinner plate. For the centerpiece, find three of your favorite vases with similar height and fill them with flowers (such as daisies, hydrangeas, peonies etc.). Another idea may be use three cylinders and full them with sand or gravel and place a white pillar candle in each.

Remember is it the little things that make a party successful. If you are in a time crunch, ask your guests to pitch in with the food or drinks. The point is to send off summer with a bang! Have fun and send us your ideas on how you spend your Labor Day weekend.

Kid's Camping Birthday

2009-08-17T10:12:00.001-07:00

Birthday Party Camp out

A great and easy birthday party idea for kids. With the summer quickly coming to an end, a camp-out birthday party is fun.

Set up a tent in your backyard with a fire pit somewhere in the vicinity of your tent.

Have the guests bring their sleeping bag, pillow, and warm clothing.

Start the party around early evening (It is up to you if you want to serve dinner (or BBQ)that evening or just partake in the nighttime activities with dessert/and late night snacks) and let the party goers get their stuff settled in the tent.

Start the fire in the fire pit as soon as the sun starts to set. As it gets dark, a great party favor the kids can enjoy during the festivities are glow sticks. They come in a variety of items (stick, necklaces, bracelets, headbands, earrings etc.) so the dark doesn't seem so scary if you have a bit of light with you at all times.

Some activities that are fun around the campfire is the old time favorites of making s'mores. Another is play charades or the telephone game.

Depending on the age of your guests, a good ghost story around the campfire is fun too.

Stay tuned for end of summer activities for all ages.

Get Fired Up Italian Style

2009-05-22T09:26:00.001-07:00

Memorial Day weekend is the kick off to outdoor entertaining and BBQ season. So this weekend, get your grills fired up!

Here is one our favorite flavored hamburger perfect for entertaining this weekend.

Italian Style Hamburgers

1 lb. ground beef

1 package Italian salad dressing seasoning

1/2 red onion chopped

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese

Mix all ingredients together in large bowl. Let stand in refrigerator for about 1/2 hour. Take out of refrigerator and make individual patties. Barbecue to desired doneness.

Enjoy!

Memorial Day

2009-05-20T14:55:00.000-07:00

Celebrating Memorial Day

This holiday came to be for the sole purpose to remember and appreciate the men and women who gave their lives to protect and defend our nation. Although Americans for centuries have always celebrated these fallen heroes, Memorial Day became official in 1868 by General John Logan.

However, along with the remembrance of our fallen soldiers, nowadays Memorial Day is the unofficial kick off the start of barbecue season and summer.

Stay tuned for upcoming BBQ ideas, recipes, and table setting ideas.

Flip Over Summer

2009-05-18T11:16:00.000-07:00

We found this from bhg.com and thought it was the perfect cake to kick off summer vacation:

Ingredients
· 1 10-3/4-ounce frozen pound cake, thawed
· 3/4 to 1 cup desired-flavor ice cream
· 1/2 of an 8-ounce carton frozen whipped dessert topping, thawed
· Pull-apart licorice twists
· Bright-color candy wafers and/or round candies
· Graham cracker crumbs (optional)
Directions
1. Halve pound cake horizontally. Using a serrated knife, cut off the rounded top of the cake so each layer will be level. Cut each half into a flip-flop shape*. Place ice cream in a small bowl and stir to soften. Spread softened ice cream over one of the cakes. Top with second cake. Place ice cream-filled cake on a baking sheet. Cover and freeze until firm (2 to 3 hours). Spread with whipped topping.
2. To decorate, cut the ends of two twists at a diagonal. Insert a toothpick on the underside of each twist. Arrange the two twists with the cut ends together to form a V-shape, inserting toothpicks in cake to hold the twists in place as straps. Arrange candy wafers around base of flip-flop to decorate. Cover cake loosely and freeze until serving time. Serve on a platter sprinkled with graham cracker crumbs as sand, if desired. Makes 6 servings.
3. Tip: To cut flip-flop shape, trace the bottom of a child-size flip-flop (needs to be 7 to 7 1/2 inches long) on a piece of paper. Cut out shape. Place paper, clean side down, on a piece of clean cardboard or sturdy paper; trace shape. Cut out shape. Place cardboard shape on top of one cake half and use a small sharp knife to cut around shape and through cake. Repeat with other cake half. 4. Cake for 12: For a larger crowd, double recipe and make a pair of flip-flop cakes.

Recipe and photo from: bhg.com

Mother's Day Brunch

2009-05-07T12:42:00.000-07:00

This looked really yummy and easy to make!

Stuffed French Toast

Ingredients
24 (1-ounce) slices cinnamon-raisin bread
Cooking spray
3 cups 1% low-fat milk
2 cups egg substitute, divided
1 cup half-and-half
1 cup sugar, divided
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 (8-ounce) block fat-free cream cheese, softened
1 (8-ounce) block 1/3-less-fat cream cheese, softened
Bottled cinnamon-sugar (optional)

Preparation
Trim crusts from bread. Arrange half of the bread in a 13 x 9-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray.
Combine milk, 1 1/2 cups egg substitute, half-and-half, and 1/2 cup sugar in a large bowl, stirring with a whisk. Pour half of milk mixture over bread in dish.
Combine 1/2 cup egg substitute, 1/2 cup sugar, vanilla, nutmeg, and cheeses in a food processor or blender; process until smooth. Pour cream cheese mixture over moist bread in dish. Top with remaining bread; pour remaining milk mixture over bread. Cover and refrigerate 8 hours or overnight.
Preheat oven to 350°.
Uncover and bake at 350° for 55 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar, if desired.

Recipe From:

Cooking Light, DECEMBER 2001

http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=521691

She Is Royalty on Mother's Day

2009-05-05T12:06:00.000-07:00

Here is a fun theme for a Mother’s Day gathering: Queen Bee!

All Mothers should be treated like royalty this Mother’s Day and here is a fun and easy idea for your Mother’s Day tablescape. This occasion is ideal for outdoor entertaining.
Set Your Table: Cover your table with a white tablecloth. Sunflowers are easy to arrange in a vase, so fill a simple vase with a variety of sunflowers. On either side of the vase, place jars of honey or small decorative woven beehives. For the place setting, use orange and yellow round place mats, white or yellow napkin, white dinner plate, and place a bee candle in the middle of each plate for your guests to take home. On all mothers’ plates place a tiara and bee candle so they are recognized as royalty.
Happy Mother’s Day!

Cinco de Mayo Spirit

2009-04-30T09:30:00.004-07:00

Here is a great cocktail alternative from bhg.com to margaritas for your Cinco de Mayo celebration.

Mojito Sparkler:

Ingredients
· 6 fresh mint leaves
· 1-1/2 to 2 jiggers (2 to 3 ounces) gold rum
· 1 teaspoon lime juice
· 2 teaspoons superfine sugar
· Ice
· Club soda
Directions
1. Crush leaves in the bottom of a tall glass. Pour in rum, lime juice, and sugar. Add ice, stir and top with club soda. Makes 1 serving.

Recipe from:http://www.bhg.com/recipe/drinks/mojito-sparkler/

Guacamole with a Twist

2009-04-29T11:34:00.000-07:00

I know this is a Mexican theme party, but I loved this recipe that added a little Italian to it!

Recipe from bhg.com:
Basil Guacamole
Ingredients
· 2 ripe, medium avocados, halved, seeded, and peeled
· 3/4 cup snipped fresh basil
· 1/2 cup chopped seeded tomato
· 2 tablespoons chopped green onion
· 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
· 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt
· 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper or few drops bottled hot pepper sauce
· Tortilla chips
DirectionsIn a bowl mash avocado with a fork Stir in basil, tomato, green onion, lime juice, salt, and red pepper. Serve immediately with tortilla chips. Makes about 2 cups.

Paper Flowers - How to

2009-04-28T13:14:00.000-07:00

This is a project that can be done by almost anyone.

Supplies:

2 sheets of tissue paper (same or different colors)

Green pipe cleaner or wire

Scissors

Cut the tissue paper into 12 inch squares. Stack two tissue squares together. Start on one end and accordion fold the two sheets. Fold the accordion tissue in half. At the fold/middle wrap the pipe cleaner around two to three time. Now start to unfold the accordion tissue and fluff the paper flower. (You should be able to make two flowers depending on the size of your tissue sheet.)

Cinco de Mayo Celebration

2009-04-27T10:50:00.000-07:00

Cinco de Mayo Celebration Table

The fifth of May marched the day of Independence of Mexico from France. But now the holiday is celebrated by all. As usual we are all about the table! So here are some suggestions for creating un fabuloso partido.
Use bright and bold colors on your table using traditional items. For your centerpiece, place an over sized sombrero in the center of your table. On both sides of it fill two vases or pitchers with either fresh flowers such as sunflowers, yellow daisies, or orange roses. Better yet you can buy or make tissue paper flowers. In between the vase and sombrero place a pair of maracas. Go to your local party store to find Mexican celebration banner. Cut out the string part so you are left with individual banners or flags. Each flag will be used for a placemat. Place the ‘flags’ at each place setting. White dinner plates work well, but if you have festive or colorful dessert plates, use them with the dinner plate to add color and contrast. It is only appropriate to have a margarita glass at every place setting to serve the ever popular margarita during your fiesta. For the napkin, you can purchase paper or better yet bright solid cloth napkins place under the dessert plate would add texture and dimension to the place setting. (TIP: Go to your local fabric store and find southwester or Mexican print fabric and cut them into 17” squares to create your napkin). While you are at your local party store pick up a few mini piñatas. Fill each piñata with candy and write each guests name on them. Place the filled piñata in the center of the salad plate. Not only does is it a unique place card, but it doubles as a fun party favor too.
Now you are ready for Cinco de Mayo with style. Buena Suerte!

Stay tuned here to find easy menu ideas for your celebrate or sign up for our newsletter to receive first priority on tips and discounts from www.tableambiance.com

Taping a TV Segment

2009-04-15T21:32:00.001-07:00

We had so much fun working with Lisa Quinn from View from the Bay and her new show Live Well -Home with Lisa Quinn. Here are some photos from our taping. The entire crew from KGO ABC TV Station were so incredibly wonderful to work with.

You can view the segment by clicking here.

Thank you Lisa, you are so much fun to work with!

Buona Pasqua! - Italian Easter Bread

2009-04-09T10:55:00.000-07:00

Italian Easter Bread

Making this Italian Easter bread has become an Easter tradition that my daughters and I have started years ago. Although we have never written a true recipe down, the one listed below is very similar to what we do. Buona Pasqua!

1 package Rapid Rise yeast

1.25 cups scalded milk, cooled to room temperature

pinch of salt

1/3 cup butter, softened

2 eggs, beaten

1/2 cup sugar

3.5 cups flour (approximate)

1 egg, beaten with 1 teaspoon of water

6 dyed Easter eggssprinkles

Tip: the Easter eggs do not need to be hard boiled. They cook when the bread bakes. I usually just dye the eggs right out of the fridge, without hardboiling them. Saves time. Just be careful they don't crack!
In a large mixer bowl, combine yeast, warm (not hot) milk, salt, butter, eggs and sugar. Add about half the flour and beat until smooth with dough hook. Slowly add the remaining flour to form a stiff dough. Don't worry about how much flour it ends up being, just keep adding until the dough is not sticky anymore. Knead until smooth with either dough hook attachment or turn out on floured board and knead. Place in a greased bowl, cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about an hour.Punch dough down, divide into 12 pieces. Roll each piece to form a 1 inch thick rope about 14 inches long and, taking two pieces, twist to form a "braid", pinching the ends, and loop into a circle.
Place on a greased baking sheet. Cover and let rise until double, about an hour again. Brush each bread with beaten egg wash. Put on the sprinkles. In the middle of each bread ring, gently place an Easter egg, making an indentation with the egg.
Bake at 350 degrees until golden - about 20 - 25 minutes. Cool on rack.

Recipe from: The Italian Dish.

Easter Cupcake Recipe Revised

2009-04-07T08:37:00.000-07:00

As we posted yesterday the adorable cupcake recipe and photo from the Food Network.

Here are some simple tips to save time in creating the cupcakes:

Use a boxed cake mix and follow as directed

Replace frosting recipe with store bought frosting and add food coloring to the container to create the desired color.

If you don't have time to color shredded coconuts, use green sprinkles or green jimmies to make the nest.

If you can't find White Airhead candy, you can purchase fondant at your local craft store (like Michael's) or cake supply store.

These little tips will reduce the time it take to create these adorable cupcake and allow you to carry out the Easter theme at your Easter feast.

Easter Dessert Idea

2009-04-06T09:57:00.000-07:00

Cupcake recipe and photo from: Food Network Kitchen

Ingredients
1 vanilla cupcake, recipe follows
About 1/3 cup White Fluff Frosting, recipe follows
Green coconut grass, recipe follows
6 small candied malt balls (2 yellow, 2 pink, 2 white)
1 yellow chick peep
White Airhead candy

Directions
Frost a cupcake with fluff frosting. Press a circle of coconut grass on top. Nestle the malted eggs on top of the grass. Gently press the peep onto the center of the grass. Cut the white Airhead into a 1/2 oval shape; trim one side so it has a cracked egg jagged edge. Place egg next to chick.

Vanilla Cupcakes:
2 2/3 cups sugar
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 large eggs
2 large egg yolks
2/3 cup milk
2/3 cup water
2 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/3 cups cake flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon fine salt
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line two 12-cup cupcake tins with paper liners. (To avoid cupcakes sticking if they overflow slightly, lightly spray the tops of the pans.) Put tins on a baking sheet. Set aside.
Process sugar and butter in a food processor until very creamy, scraping sides as needed, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the eggs and yolks, one at a time, pulsing after each addition. Add the milk, water, and vanilla and process to blend.
Whisk both flours, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Add the dry ingredients, in 3 batches to the wet, pulsing, and then scraping batter off the sides of the processor as needed after each addition. Process until the batter is very smooth, about 2 minutes.
Evenly pour the batter into the prepared cups, filling them 3/4 of the way full. Bake until the cakes are just firm and spring back when gently pressed, and the tops are golden, 18 to 25 minutes. Cool slightly in tin, and turn out of tin when cool enough to handle. Cool cupcakes completely on a rack before frosting.
Yield: 24 cupcakes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Inactive Prep Time: 30 minutes
Ease of preparation: easy
Fluff Frosting:
1/4 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
10 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
5 cups confectioners' sugar
1/2 cup marshmallow fluff
Pinch fine salt
Whisk the milk and vanilla extract together in a small bowl.
Slowly beat the butter and sugar, in another medium bowl, with an electric mixer until incorporated. Raise the speed to high and mix until light and fluffy, about 5 to 7 minutes. (Occasionally turn the mixer off, and scrape the sides of the bowl down with a rubber spatula.) Add the fluff and salt and reduce the speed to low. Add the milk and vanilla mixture, scrape the bowl down, and mix until fully incorporated. Raise the mixer to high and beat briefly until fluffy, about 1 to 2 minutes. Frost cupcake immediately.
Yield: 3 3/4 cups

Coconut Easter Grass for Cupcakes:
2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
1 to 2 teaspoons liquid green food coloring
1/2 to 1 teaspoon liquid yellow food coloring
Preheat oven to 250 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place a mesh rack on top, if available.
Put coconut in a shallow bowl. While tossing with a large spoon, add food coloring drop by drop until the desired color is reached. A little more green than yellow makes a pretty grass color. Add a few tablespoons water to moisten the mixture and help disperse the color evenly. If the color is too dark, add additional water, as needed, to dilute to the desired color. Drain the coconut in a sieve or strainer.
Spread the coconut in an even layer on the rack, or directly on the lined baking sheet. Place in the oven until dry, about 10 to 15 minutes. Use immediately, or store in covered container for up to 3 days.
Cook's Note: Food coloring can be messy and can stain your skin. To prevent this, wear latex gloves. You may find it easier to color the coconut in a large zip top plastic bag, tossing it to color evenly.
Yield: 2 cups coconut grass

Stay tune for how to Fake the Food on this recipe!

Unique Gifts For Easter

2009-03-31T09:18:00.001-07:00

"The Excellence Of A Gift Lies In Its Appropriateness Rather Than In Its Value." -Charles Dudley Warner

Here are some of our favorite Spring time and Easter hostess gifts that are appropriate and under $25.00 ea.

Click here to view these gifts and other gifts under $25.00.

For more gifts and Easter entertaining ideas visit us at http://www.tableambiance.com/

Easter Recipe Idea

2009-03-30T14:02:00.000-07:00

We loved this recipe for two reasons: 1) an Easter Brunch would not be complete without Eggs Benedict and 2) it included 'Make ahead' suggestions to save precious time.

Eggs Benedict
· 1 to 2 teaspoons instant chicken bouillon granules (optional)
· 4 eggs
· 1 recipe Mock Hollandaise Sauce*
· 2 English muffins, split
· 4 slices Canadian-style bacon
· Cracked black pepper (optional)
Directions
1. If desired, lightly grease a 10-inch saute pan or skillet with cooking oil or shortening. Half-fill the skillet with water. If desired, stir in bouillon granules. Bring the water to boiling; reduce heat to simmering (bubbles should begin to break the surface of the water). Break one of the eggs into a small dish or a measuring cup with a handle. Carefully slide egg into the simmering water, holding the lip of the cup as close to the water as possible. Add remaining eggs, one at a time.
2. Simmer eggs, uncovered, for 3 to 5 minutes or until the whites are completely set and the yolks begin to thicken but are not hard. Remove eggs with a slotted spoon and place them in a large pan of warm water to keep them warm. Prepare Mock Hollandaise Sauce.
3. Place muffin halves, cut sides up, on a baking sheet. Broil 3 to 4 inches from the heat about 2 minutes or until toasted. Top muffin halves with Canadian-style bacon. Broil about 1 minute more or until bacon is heated.
4. To serve, top each bacon-topped muffin half with an egg. Spoon Mock Hollandaise Sauce over eggs. If desired, sprinkle with pepper. Makes 4 servings.
5. *Mock Hollandaise Sauce: In a 1- to 1-1/2-quart saucepan combine 1/3 cup dairy sour cream, 1/3 cup mayonnaise or salad dressing, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon yellow mustard. Cook and stir over medium-low heat until warm. If desired, stir in a little milk to thin. Makes about 2/3 cup.
6. Make-ahead directions: Prepare Poached Eggs and toast English muffins as above. Place muffin halves in a greased 8x8x2-inch baking pan. Top each muffin half with a slice of Canadian-style bacon and 1 cooked egg. Cover and chill for up to 24 hours. To serve, prepare the Mock Hollandaise Sauce; spoon hot sauce over eggs. Bake, covered, in a 350F oven about 30 minutes or until heated through. Recipe from:bhg.com

Stay tune for more ideas to make this Easter frugal yet festive with Easter Table Settings and Entertaining tips.

Easter Table Setting Idea

2009-03-29T14:38:00.001-07:00

An Eggcellent Table Setting Element.

When Easter is here it is all about the 'egg'. Here is a fun yet useful idea for your Easter table setting. The yolk and white of a clean egg has been blown out from a hole large enough to fit a tulip stem. Then the egg is placed into a silver-plated napkin ring for stability. You can go one step further and write each guests name on them each egg to welcome each guest to their place setting. Or several of them displayed throughout your spring tablescape.

This idea brought to you by: bhg.com.

Stay tune for more Easter Table Setting tips from TableAmbiance.com. Or visit our website http://www.tableambiance.com/ to view our two Easter Table Settings Ideas: Easter Hop To It and Easter Egg.

Easter Brunch Recipe: Deviled Egg Salad

2009-03-26T08:37:00.000-07:00

An Eggcellent dish for your Easter Brunch or Buffet

Deviled Egg Salad

Ingredients
¨ hard-cooked eggs*
¨ Tbsp. salad dressing or mayonnaise
¨ Tbsp. chopped fresh dill weed
¨ clove garlic, minced
¨ dashes bottled hot pepper sauce
¨ 1/8 tsp. salt
¨ cups torn Boston or Bibb lettuce
¨ cups grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
¨ medium red sweet pepper, chopped
¨ slices bacon, crisp-cooked, drained, and crumbled
¨ green onions, sliced
¨ recipe Dill Vinaigrette
Directions
1. Halve hard-cooked eggs lengthwise and place yolks in a small bowl. Set whites aside. Mash yolks with fork and stir in salad dressing, dill weed, garlic, hot pepper sauce, and salt. Stuff egg white halves with yolk mixture. Set aside.
2. On a platter arrange lettuce, tomatoes, sweet pepper, bacon, and green onions. Arrange eggs on greens. Drizzle with Dill Vinaigrette. Makes 6 to 8 servings.
3. Dill Vinaigrette In a screw-top jar combine 1/3 cup olive oil or salad oil; 2 tablespoons tarragon vinegar; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill weed; 2 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon salt; and1/4 teaspoon bottled hot pepper sauce. Cover and shake well.
4. *To hard-cook eggs: In a large saucepan place eggs in a single layer. Add enough cold water to cover eggs by 1 inch. Bring to rapid boiling over high heat. Remove from heat, cover. Let stand 15 minutes; drain. Cool. Peel. Recipe from: http://www.bhg.com/recipe/salads/deviled-egg-salad/

Easter Table Setting Idea

2009-03-25T12:03:00.001-07:00

Easter- Hop To It Tablescape Spring is here and one of the first celebrations of spring is Easter. At TableAmbiance.com we have create a bright and fun Easter table setting for guests of all ages to enjoy. All the icons of Easter are represented on this table. As you already know, TableAmbiance.com is known for their ability to think outside the box, you know by taking one items and using it in a variety of different ways. Well, that is still true on this Easter table setting. The ceramic eggs are perfect as a party favor and place card for each guests. The adorable pair of rabbits can be used next year as part of your spring home decor, and the colorful and bright place mats can be used throughout the spring and summer for any occasion. Stay tuned to our blog each day to see our numerous Easter ideas from games for kids of all ages and easy recipe and menu ideas.

To view all of our items for Springtime and Easter Table Setting, visit us at www.tableambiance.com.

Welcome the First Day of Spring

2009-03-20T07:39:00.000-07:00

“Spring is nature’s way of saying – Let’s Party”

– Robin Williams

We can’t agree more! At Table Ambiance, it is always about a party, and now you have a perfect excuse to have a ‘Spring Fling’ or ‘Bring on Spring’ party.
Along with the light and bright colors of spring, your menu should be the same, keep it light and fresh. Your menu should include dishes such as a variety of salads, rice dishes with fish or chicken. If the day or evening permits set your table up outside so nature’s sounds can create the audio ambiance of our Spring party. Set your table with tablecloths, placemats and napkins that reflect lots of bright colors. Choose flowers that bloom bright with the welcoming of spring. Daffodils are wonderful for their color and cost. You can purchase them relatively cheap (shop Trader Joe’s) and display them in a variety different shaped vases throughout your table along with small votives candles to create the ultimate ambiance (TIP: To preserve the life of daffodils, cut the stem of your daffodils a bit and hold a lit candle to the bottom on the stem to seal the sap. The best way to buy your daffodils is with almost closed buds; because once they have opened they have a fairly short lifespan). Another spring tablescape idea is to have the symbols of spring displayed on your table. The birds, nests, gardening, and colorful flowers are all associated with Spring. Visit TableAmbiance.com for spring table setting ideas and elements to set your Spring themed table.

Entertaining On a Budget

2009-03-17T09:12:00.000-07:00

How to Make Cheap, Fast Dinners Look Expensive

By Kristie Leong MD

Cheap, fast dinners don't have to look and taste that way. Here's how to turn them into feasts for the eyes and the taste buds.
If you don’t have the time to cook a restaurant quality meal in the evening, you’re not alone. Many busy Americans struggle to get dinner on the table and frequently resort to bringing home fast food or take-out options. Even if you only have time to prepare a fast, cheap dinner, you can still make it special by adding a few special touches that’ll make your family think you spent a great deal of time in the kitchen. Here’s how to make quick, cheap dinners that look expensive.

Bring out the Nice Dinnerware
Instead of serving a fast, cheap dinner on ugly ceramic plates, or even worse paper plates, bring out your nicest dinnerware. Food always tastes better when it’s served from attractive bowls and plates. Some people make the mistake of storing away their best dinnerware and china for a future “special occasion”. An occasion that’s special enough never seems to arise and that beautiful china ends up being unused. Isn’t every dinner you share with your family special?

Add a Garnish
Even cheap, fast dinners take on new flavor when a garnish is added to the plate. Use sprigs of fresh herbs to add a touch of color or add fresh fruit slices to your presentation. Invest in a zester so you can quickly create lemon and orange zest to add color, texture and flavor to simple dinner. Use an ice cream scoop to create luscious melon balls. If you want a more elaborate presentation, create simple flowers out of raw vegetables. There are a variety of books that will show you how to do this. This is a great technique to use when you’re entertaining on a budget. No one will ever suspect you paid so little for the food when the presentation is so detailed.

Serve it by Candlelight
Nothing adds more ambience to cheap, fast dinners than serving them by candlelight. Before serving dinner, dim the lights and bring out your prettiest candles. Not only will dinner be more pleasant, you’ll be saving on electricity too.

Add Some Background Music
Soft, new age music playing in the background adds a special atmosphere to even the most inexpensive meal. The harmonious sounds of music have the added benefit of relaxing the body and helping to improve digestion. When you serve dinner to the melodious tones of Kenny G or John Tesh, your family will think they’re eating in a five star restaurant.

Drizzle on the Sauces
When you apply sauce to an entrée or side dish, don’t just pour it on. Put it into a squeeze bottle and drizzle it over the food by moving the bottle back and forth to create a pattern. Many fine restaurants use this technique to give food an elegant, artistic flair. This is a simple way to serve your next meal “chef style”.

Even though you may not have the time or money to prepare an expensive dinner at home with a little imagination quick, cheap dinners can still be memorable. Why not give these ideas a try?

This article came from: http://www.gomestic.com/Entertaining/How-to-Make-Cheap-Fast-Dinners-Look-Expensive.558969

Stay tuned for more entertaining on a budget ideas. Also, Table Ambiance has incredible table elements on sale now that will add a bit of ambiance to your table.

Corn Beef Left Overs

2009-03-16T13:42:00.001-07:00

Even though St. Patrick's Day isn't until tomorrow the festivities started this past weekend! If you are one of those who hosted a party and have left over corn beef, we have a great corn beef hash recipe for you. If you are about to cook a brisket tomorrow, save some left overs to try this recipe, it is one of our favorites.

Corned Beef Hash
2 lbs cold corned beef, chopped fairly fine
4 - 6 cold boiled potatoes, chopped coarsely
1 med. onion, finely chopped
freshly ground pepper
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
Butter (1/4 cup)or beef dripping
1/2 heavy cream (optional)

Combine potatoes, meat and onions add pepper and nutmeg (hash). Blend well, allow to rest in refrigerator several hours or overnight. Put butter in a pan just enough to cover bottom, add hash. When hash begins to develop a crust on the bottom, turn with spatula. Add cream (a little at a time) if you don't add cream cook longer to form another bottom crust.
Enjoy!!

Ever Wonder Why We Wear Green?

2009-03-12T16:31:00.000-07:00

We found this article on the internet about how shamrocks and wearing green on St. Patrick's Day came to be:

The Story of the Shamrock & The Wearing of the Green
The Shamrock (traditional spelling: seamróg, meaning summer plant) is a three-leafed clover that grows in Ireland. A common image in Celtic artwork, the shamrock is found on Irish medieval tombs and on old copper coins, known as St. Patrick's money. The plant is also reputed to have mystic, even prophetic powers-- for instance the leaves are said to stand upright to warn of an approaching storm.
Legend has it that St. Patrick used the shamrock in the fifth century to symbolize the divine nature of the trinity when he introduced Christianity to Ireland.
The seamróg is a big part of Irish history, as the Shamrock was used as an emblem by the Irish Volunteers in the era of Grattan's Parliament in the 1770's, The Act of Union. When it became an emblem of rebellion in the 19th century, Queen Victoria made wearing a seamrog by member's of her regiments punishable by death by hanging. It was during this dark time that the phrase "the Wearing of the Green" began. Today the seamróg joins the English Rose and the Scottish Thistle on the British flag and is an integral part of Saint Patrick's Day celebrations.
"The Wearing of the Green" also symbolizes the birth of springtime. Irish legend states that green clothes attract faeries and aid crops.
This article came from: Fabulousliving.com (How to get a life)

Get into the Spirits on St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-09T12:06:00.000-07:00

St. Patrick’s Day Ideas:
Here is a unique green cocktail alternative to serving green beer at your St. Patrick’s Day Party from Korbel California Champagne

Irish Kiss

4 oz Korbel California Brut Champagne
1 oz. Midori Melon Liqueur

Serve with green sugar-rimmed champagne flute.

To make sugar rim: simply add two drops of green food coloring to 1/2 cup of sugar and mix well. Rub glass rim with lime and dip in your green sugar mixture.

photo from Korbel Champagne

Put a Little Luck on Your Table

2009-03-05T10:53:00.000-08:00

Put a little luck on your table for St. Patrick’s Day – Four Leaf Clover Napkin

Have a hot iron ready for pressing:
• Place a square green napkin on a flat surface fully open. Fold over the top two corner so they meet in the middle.

• Do the same with the bottom two corners so the napkin in a diamond shape

• Take all four points of the diamond and have them meet in the middle to make a square. Carefully flip the square over tow reveal a smooth side of a square.

• Bring all four corners of the square to the middle and make sure the shape facing you is a square. Press with iron.

• With one hand holding the center with the four points, use your other hand to reach behind each corner and partially unfold the fabric underneath so that each corner now has two layers. Carefully pull the point of each corner’s lower layer just until the upper one pops up.

• Fold the lower layer under each corner about 1 inch towards the middle of the napkin. Carefully pull the upper layer’s folds open forwards the four corners while making sure to keep all the center folds in place. Steam or press very gently.

Entertaining on a Budget

2009-02-26T11:41:00.000-08:00

After hearing and reading on a daily basis how many people are unemployed, how many businesses are closing their doors, and how many houses are in foreclosure, now is the time to gather with family and friends for the sake of support and encouragement. That is why we enjoyed this article from Celebration.com on entertaining on a budget.

Fabulous Dinner Parties on a Budget
Article By :Jeanne Benedict
Use these simple decor tips to transform your fete from frugal to fabulous.
Embrace traditions around the world by hosting a dinner party that celebrates the flavors of another country. Best of all, these international menus for 6 guests were designed with your wallet in mind to give your party high style on a low budget--each party menu only costs $50!

I've included an Estimated Cost Breakdown so you can tally it all up and save even more by using items that you may already have on hand.

When guests ask what they can bring to your dinner party, suggest a bottle of wine or spirits from the country whose food you are featuring, since wine and cocktails are not included in the budget breakdown.

Italian cuisine offers such a variety of flavors, from the white cream sauces found in northern Italy to the hearty red tomato sauces enjoyed in the southern part of the country.

Italian Menu
Delight dinner guests with an Italian menu that clocks in at around $50!
Olive Polenta Squares (recipe below)
Easy Fettuccine Alfredo (recipe below)
Green Salad with Diced Tomatoes and Oil and Vinegar Dressing
Espresso Trifle Martini (recipe recipe below)

Estimated Cost Breakdown:
Olive Polenta Squares
$2 - 1 (3.8 oz) can sliced olives
$3 - 1 (1 lb.) box cornmeal
$2 - 1 (2 oz.) container chicken bouillon squares (about 15 count)
$5 - small (8 fl. oz.) generic brand bottle olive oil

Fettuccine Alfredo
$2 - 1 dozen eggs
$4 - 1 pint heavy whipping cream
$5 - 5 oz. wedge Parmesan cheese
$4 - 2 (1 lb.) boxes fettuccine; dry pasta

Salad
$2 - 1 head romaine lettuce
$2 - 3 Roma tomatoes
$0 - olive oil (included above)
$3 - small (8 fl. oz.) bottle red wine vinegar

Espresso Trifle Martini
$5 - 1 store-bought pound cake cut into cubes (frozen desserts)
$4 - 6 cups prepared vanilla pudding
$2 - 1 shot espresso (purchased from a coffee store like Starbucks)
$2 - 1 (lb.) box granulated sugar
_______________________________
$47 - Estimated Total

Olive Polenta Squares:
Ingredients
2 (3.5 gm) chicken bouillon cubes
2 cups water
3/4 Cup yellow cornmeal
1 (3.8 oz) can sliced olives
1 Tablespoon olive oil
Steps
Bring water and bouillon cubes to boil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Slowly sprinkle cornmeal into water while quickly whisking mixture. Continue whisking for 3 minutes smoothing out any lumps as mixture thickens. Replace whisk with wooden spoon and cook, stirring constantly until mixture thickens, about 1 minute. Spoon should stand in mixture and polenta will come away from sides of pan. Remove from heat and stir in olives.
Spread mixture on to a lightly oil baking sheet making ½-inch thick rectangle of polenta. Cool until polenta is set, about 15 minutes. Cut into squares and serve as an appetizer.
Makes 6 serving

Fettuccine Alfredo
Ingredients
1 Teaspoon salt
1 Cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 5 oz.)
2 large eggs
1/2 Cup heavy whipping cream
1 1/2 lbs. fettuccine ( about 1 1/2 boxes dry pasta)

Steps
Add 1 teaspoon salt into a pot of water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Add fettuccine and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, add the Parmesan, eggs and cream into a large serving bowl and whisk until combined.

Pour pasta into a colander to drain. Immediately add to serving bowl and toss with Parmesan sauce mixture until coated. Serve hot.
Makes about 6 servings.

Espresso Trifle Martini
Ingredients
1 shot espresso (purchased from a coffee store like Starbucks)
3/4 Cup water
1 Cup sugar
1 store-bought pound cake, cut into cubes
6 individual portion cups of prepared vanilla pudding (Jello brand)
Add espresso, water and sugar into a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and cool.
Alternate layers of pound cake cubes and pudding into 6 individual Martini glasses. Pour cooled espresso syrup over the top of each one and serve.Makes about 6 servings.

Mardi Gras Party Ideas

2009-02-23T09:11:00.000-08:00

Mardi Gras (also called Fat Tuesday) is celebrated the day before Ash Wednesday. It is the final day of Carnival which begins on the sixth of January (also know as the Feast of the Epiphany).
Mardi Gras is a day of great fun so why not have your own Mardi Gras? The colors of Mardi Gras are purple, green and gold. This occasion can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Before your guests arrive, have a mix of jazz music loaded in your CD or MP3 for your guest to enjoy and it is a simple element to add a festive ambiance to your occasion.
FOR THE TABLE: Cover your table with a white or green tablecloth. For your centerpiece, place several green, purple, and gold hats down the center of your table along with Mardi Gras masks and lots and lots of beads. Or at each place setting, have a mask and necklace for each guest to wear.
KEEP THEM ENTERTAINED: Make sure you have activities that will entertain even the youngest one. Make your own mask is a fun activity and craft for any age. When everyone is finished, hold a contest for the most creative.
FOR THE FOOD: There are hundreds of recipes for this celebration such as crawfish, jambalaya, shrimp creoles, gumbo, red bean and rice just to name a few. However, it is very important not to forget the King’s Cake as part of your Mardi Gras menu.
The most important thing to remember about a Mardi Gras party is it is a fun idea to gather and do and be a little wacky for one day, so enjoy yourself and have fun.

King Cake Recipe:

INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup ice
2 fluid ounces light rum
2 fluid ounces passion fruit flavored syrup
1 cup lemon-lime flavored carbonated beverage
1 ounce lime juice
1 fluid ounce 151 proof rum
DIRECTIONS
In a shaker, combine ice, light rum, passion fruit syrup, lemon-lime flavored carbonated beverage and lime juice. Shake well and pour mixture into a Hurricane or other large specialty glass. Float the 151 proof rum on top of the drink.
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/New-Orleans-Hurricane/Detail.aspx

Hollywood Cocktails

2009-02-17T09:43:00.000-08:00

Put a Little Hollywood Spirit in Your Cocktails on Oscar Night!

Here are just a few ideas and recipes for themed cocktails to make your Oscar Night entertaining complete.

The Red Carpet
Ingredients:
11/2 oz Patrón Silver Tequila
1/2 ounce Patrón Citrónge Orange Liqueur
Fresh raspberry juice
Dash organic cranberry juice
Fresh lime juice
Gold sugar rim
Orange wedge dipped in gold sugar for garnish

Preparation:
Wet the rim of a cocktail glass using an orange or lime wedge.
Rim the wet with gold sugar, shake off excess sugar and set aside
Pour the liquid ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
Shake well.
Strain into the prepared cocktail glass.
Garnish with an orange wedge dipped in gold sugar.
Recipe From: http://cocktails.about.com/od/tequilarecipes/r/red_carpet.htm

Hollywood Martini Cocktail
Ingredients:
3 oz vodka
1/2 oz black raspberry liqueur
Dash of pineapple juice

Preparation:
Pour the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
Shake well.
Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
Recipe From: http://cocktails.about.com/od/vodkadrinkrecipes/r/hollywood_tini.htm

Manhattan Cocktail:

If the Martini is the Emperor of Cocktails, drink to dilettantes and super-spies, then the Manhattan is without a doubt the Mafia boss, libation to outlaws, hardened working men, and the women who love ‘em. Speaking of, Marilyn Monroe was a fan of the Manhattan, showcasing it in the comedy Some Like It Hot (1959).
Ingredients:
2 oz. Rye or Bourbon Whiskey
3/4 oz. Sweet Vermouth
Maraschino Cherry

Preparation:
Fill half a cocktail shaker with ice and shake or stir the Rye or Bourbon and the Vermouth until just chilled. Strain into an equally chilled Martini glass and garnish by sinking the cherry to the bottom.
Recipe From: http://www.nostalgiaholic.com/wp/261/classic-cocktail-bar/

Enjoy your the evening and let us know how it all went. Email us at cservice@tableambiance.com or leave a comment on our blog.

Oscar Party Food Ideas

2009-02-16T20:59:00.000-08:00

"Fake the Food" for the Oscars

As the hostess of this fabulous affair, you should enjoy every minute of it and be able to see the wonders that play out on the red carpet. So...............organize food that takes little to no effort and have it all ready to go before the guests arrive and all you need to do is replenish it when necessary. As mentioned before, a buffet is the best choice. Fill your table with finger foods such as:
Trader Joes: Mushroom Turnovers, Mini Quiches, Mini Tacos, Assorted cheeses and crackers, mixed nuts

Costco: Ready-made pasta dishes (chicken alfredo), lavash rolls, chips and salsa, brownie bits, pizza bites, deli trays, rolls, etc........

The key to pulling off the 'fake the food' is using your own serving-ware. Think outside the box. Go to your local party supply store for plastic popcorn containers and fill those with nuts, pretzels or popcorn. If you are looking for something more galmours rent or purchase large martini glasses and fill those with salsa, chips, nuts, pasta etc.

For more ideas, stay tuned here at Table Ambiance's Blog.

Have any ideas to add? Post your comments or contact us at cservice@tableambiance.com

Oscar Party Ideas

2009-02-16T11:11:00.000-08:00

Set The Stage For A Glamorous Evening

Here are some ideas to add a glamorous ambiance to your Oscar Party. As you know we are all about the table. And for this occasion, we suggest doing a buffet. This allows your guests to nibble throughout the evening. Cover your buffet table with a white or black tablecloth. You can place large gold stars on top of the table or purchase star shaped confetti to sprinkle all around the table. Another fun idea is to purchase movie memorabilia and have them on display on your buffet table. Although paper products are the easiest, it might be easier to have your guest use regular plates. The plates can be salad side, but being that most guests will have them on their laps while eating, it would be easier and steadier to eat from. Plastic utensils and themed paper cocktail napkins would be appropriate however.

This is another opportunity to ‘Fake The Food.’ Costco, Trader Joes and Whole Foods all have wonderful ready-made appetizers and finger foods that require minimal effort. Stay tuned for more food/recipe ideas. To make it even easier for you have each guest bring their favorite finger food to your party.

Because the Oscars signify class, glamour and elegance - requests that your guest come 'dressed up' for the evening. Roll out the red carpet at your entrance to your home (visit a carpet store and ask for any remnants or use a red runner). Snap a picture of each guest as they arrive (the photo can be put into a simple silver or gold frames and made into a party favor for them to take home). Give each guest an Oscar party pool ballot and have them select their choices of winners. At the end of the awards, tally up the ballots to see who had the most correct and send the winner home with a little parting gift for the highest score. Stay tuned for more Oscar Party Ideas to make the evening memorable.

For a finishing touch, load your CD player with academy award winning sound and have the songs playing in the background to enhance this hollywood ambiance.

If you have a suggestions, we would love to hear from you. Please feel free to contact us at advice@tableambiance.com.

Are You Ready For Oscar?

2009-02-16T11:07:00.000-08:00

The 81st Academy Awards are this Sunday February 22nd. You still have plenty of time to organize and invite people over for a memorable Oscar Night. We just love evite.com, because it is fast and efficient when inviting guests to any party, and they have wonderful selection of Oscar Night invitations to choose from. Okay, now you need to decide if you want a true Hollywood Oscar Party with all the glitz and glamour, or have a fun yet casual ‘movie night’ for all ages to enjoy? You decide and check back with us each day for ideas for both a glamorous and casual Oscar Party.

Passion on Valentine's Day

2009-02-13T16:05:00.000-08:00

Add Some Passion To Your Valentine's Day!

This Pink Passion Martini is a perfect cocktail to serve at a Valentine's Day party or to be enjoyed by just the two of you. Valentine's Day is known for toasting with champagne, but this Pink Passion Martini gives champagne a new twist. This fun recipe comes from yumsugar.com. Enjoy!

Pink Passion Martini
3 oz Asti Spumante

3 oz sparkling pink lemonade

1 dash of sweet and sour
1. Shake in a martini shaker and serve in a martini glass.
2. Garnish with a raspberry or pink edible rose pedal.

Valentine's Day Tablescape Idea

2009-02-04T12:24:00.002-08:00

Fun For the Whole Family!
If celebrating Valentine's Day is a family affair, creating an ambiance of fun can be easy. Make a centerpiece that is edible. Fill vases up with colored sugar or the tiny cinnamon hearts then make a bouquet of different lollipops or cookies on a stick. Another fun idea is to place mini cupcakes in the center of your table in a heart shape. For a place card, unwrap a plain chocolate bar and using a toothpick, write or (scratch) the name of each person and place it in the center of each place setting.
Table for 2!
When it is party for two, creating a romantic ambiance most always starts with candles. A centerpiece can be created simply by taking a round platter or large charger and placing various sized pillars in the middle. For more texture, add colored pebbles, sand, or conversation hearts to the bottom of the pillars in the platter.

For more Valentine's Day ideas click here to www.tableambiance.com

Light A Heart This Valentine's Day

2009-02-02T10:56:00.000-08:00

LIGHT-A-HEART

The mission of Light a Heart is to provide families with the resources to be able to have trained, full time one-to-one care to maximize the quality of life.

For each candle purchased, a portion of the sale goes to supporting children and young adults with autism and epilepsy.
This candle created by the Mill Valley Candleworks not only offers the incredible aroma of red currant, it supports a wonderful cause. It is now available at Table Ambiance.
The heart shaped candle makes for a wonderful Valentine's gift for teachers, friends, family or for someone you care about. When a candle is lit, it just makes things better.

To learn more about Light A Heart visit http://www.lightaheart.com/.

For more Valentine's Day table settings and gifts visit us at http://www.tableambiance.com/.

Super Bowl Party Ideas

2009-01-21T13:36:00.000-08:00

Throwing A Super Bowl Party

This year’s Super Bowl takes place on Feb. 1st in Tampa Bay, Florida where the Pittsburg Steelers and the Arizona Cardinals will face off for Super Bowl 43.

A Super Bowl party is the simplest party to organize and do with minimal cost.

Invites: The fastest and simplest way to get the word out about your party is to send it via evite.com. They offer a wide variety of super bowl invitations. Encourage your guests to wear the colors of the team they want to win (Steelers – black, yellow, white or Cardinals – red and white).

Decoration and Table Setting: Again, keep it simple….. Typically a table setting for a Super Bowl party should be buffet, because your guests will want to graze before, during and after the game, and a full buffet table is the best way to accommodate them. That being said: Create a football field on your table. Purchase a disposable green table cloth and with masking tape, create lines for yardage and end zones, you can also make numbers or purchase numbers (at your local craft store) to mark the yardage on the table cloth.
Purchase paper products for easy clean up. You can keep it neutral with just brown, green and/or white, OR have a combination of the team’s colors.

Food and Beverage: You know by now our favorite thing to do is “Fake the Food, and this party is perfect for doing such a thing. Costco or Trader Joes is the ideal place to purchase the “Fake the Food” from chips/salsa, pizza bites, fried mozzarella sticks, hot wings, chicken tenders, variety of cookies and nuts, a deli platter etc….
However, if you wish to make the food yourself, knock yourself out! You can make a big pot of chili with all the toppings to feed a large group or have a variety of finger foods such as a layered dip with chips, breadsticks with deli meats around them, green salad, pasta salad, fruit salad, cupcakes, brownies shaped as footballs etc…...
The typical choice of beverage for a football game is beer. However, you can also serve nonalcoholic drinks such as soda, sparkling water, or a fun punch.

Games: The football game is the obvious entertainment, but you can offer your guests to participate in a football pool: Click here to see how you can create a football pool.

Visit us at http://www.tableambiance.com/ for all your entertaining needs featuring a variety of themes and occasions. Table Ambiance is the place to go to find all you need to set the table and the mood!

Stay tuned for more Super Bowl Party Tips and Food Ideas.

The Lunar New Year

2009-01-16T15:35:00.000-08:00

The Year of the Ox

January 26th marks the beginning of the Year of the Ox on the Lunar New Year.

Here at Table Ambiance we have some suggestions for table settings and entertaining this lunar holiday.

Make an edible invitation: Purchase fortune cookies and replace the fortune with an invite. Place the invite fortune back into the cookie and place it inside a small take-out container and leave it at the guest's doorstep.

This is the perfect time to "Fake The Food" for this occasion. Call up your favorite Asian restaurant and place an order for take out. Place the food onto your own platters or keep it in their original containers, it is entirely up to you.

Set your table: Red is the traditional color for entertaining the beginning of the New Year. So start with a red table cloth. From there, you can use disposable tableware or your own. Place an red envelope (a red envelope with money in it, which symbolizes luck and wealth) at a each place setting for the favor and or place card. Have the option for your guest to use chopsticks or a fork to dine with at each place setting.
Centerpiece:A simple centerpiece can be a variety of paper lantern hung from the ceiling or placed down the center of your table. If you don't have electricity to illuminate the lanterns a good tip is to place a glow stick inside them to add a safe ambiance to your table. Or as shown above, fill a glass bowl with fortune cookies to create a fun and edible centerpiece.

To keep it simple and add more texture to your table add a bamboo or natural placemat at each place setting and/or colored candles to add to the mood of your table.

If you have any ideas for entertaining the Lunar New Year we would love to hear from you.

advice@tableambiance.com.

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2009 Manner Resolutions - Beverly Hills Manners

2009-01-05T13:38:00.000-08:00

Manners Resolutions for 2009

1. Make a good impression on yourself, first. Take the time this year to focus on your health and well-being both physically as well as mentally. Strive to be a bit more organized and efficient so that you can be your most effective self both personally and professionally.
2. Smile and be friendly. Resolve to smile and be friendly with everyone you interact with this year. Whether it's a parent you pass in the hallway at school or the checkout attendant at the grocery store, everyone deserves a little acknowledgement. It is not much effort, but makes a huge difference.
3. Choose to be optimistic. We are beginning a new year, a clean slate, an opportunity for total renewal. Why not choose to proceed into these next twelve months with complete and absolute optimism. Remember a positive and optimistic attitude is most mannerly and assures a successful outcome in anything we endeavor to do.
4. Be a good listener. Humans thrive on relationships and connections with others. One way to cultivate and nurture your communications with friends and relatives is to be a good listener. This is the key to all great conversationalists and will convey your sincere interest and attention.
5. Use your table manners. So many of life's pleasures and special moments revolve around the table and dining experience. This year, aspire to be a bit more mindful of your table manners. Begin with the most simple of tasks such as refraining from talking with your mouth full of food or putting your elbows on the table. Make sure to sit up straight for good posture and say please and thank you when being served.
6. Take a breath and think before you act. This is vitally important and can save a lot of heartache and headache. We've all heard the expression "put yourself in someone else's shoes" meaning everything we do has a positive or negative effect on one another, so before you behave in a way that might upset or offend someone, take a moment to think about how they might feel and choose to do the right thing.
7. Be courteous and patient. We live in a 24/7, frenetic, automated world where common courtesy and human decency are threatening extinction. Do your part to change the tide and make 2009 a year where you are more polite and patient. From the people you stand in line with at Starbucks or share the carpool lane with on your way to work, to the caretakers who watch after your children and your families with whom you share a meal, aspire to be more considerate and a little more tolerant.
8. Master the fine art of knowing when to speak and when to hold your tongue. Being well-mannered does not mean you are obligated to be accepting of every situation. In fact, sometimes it is appropriate to stand up for yourself or something you believe in. The important thing is to be sensitive to your surroundings and adjust yourself accordingly. Be aware enough to know if the situation calls for gentle pacification, brutal honesty or something in between.
9. Give thanks and appreciate. We cannot say enough about taking a moment to be thankful and to appreciate. At a time when so many are experiencing job layoffs, personal economic turmoil or major health issues, it is more important than ever to try to find a glimmer of light and to acknowledge what you do have that is positive and encouraging.
10. Don't be stingy with the magic words. The most commonly used magic words are: please, thank you, excuse me, I'm sorry and you're welcome. This year, strive to use these words frequently and without discretion and witness firsthand a transformation from those who hear them. Notice how a few kind words or gestures can help brighten someone's day.

These resolutions are from: Beverly Hills Manners

New Year's Party Ideas For Kids

2008-12-27T15:38:00.000-08:00

NEW YEAR'S PARTY IDEAS

Celebrating New Year's with children might seem difficult since it is a celebration at midnight, which should be way past bedtime. However, there are so many unique ideas for games and parties I've found for celebrating this holiday, so try a few out this New Year's with your kids. Just make sure you all get a good nap that afternoon so that everyone lasts until midnight. If you don't want to keep the kids up at midnight, try celebrating New Year's with another part of the world with an earlier time zone. Cook dishes that you might eat in a particular city, play music from there, and you could even decorate with items you might find in that city or country. What's a party without decorations? For your New Year's party, have the kids make some of the décor. Streamers are simple to make by stapling lengths of crepe paper to an empty cardboard tube. Then you can drape them from the ceiling to different corners of the room. Bright and festive colors will make all the difference. You can even have your own balloon drop at midnight. Get two rectangular paper tablecloths and stitch the tablecloths together with yarn, leaving a foot or so at the end for a rip cord. Tape the cloth to the ceiling on three sides, leaving the side opposite the rip cord open. Tape the cord up separately, so it's accessible. Let the center of the cloth hang down to allow space for the balloons. Inflate at least 75 balloons and stuff the cloth with balloons, then add confetti and streamers on top. Tape up the last side of the cloth. At midnight, pull the ripcord and watch the excitement on their little faces. Another really fun idea to decorate for your New Year's party is to take your Christmas tree and deck it out with noisemakers, horn blowers, candy and streamers. It's already up so you might as well use it for a spectacular decoration for New Year's. The great thing about doing this is by the time the party's over, your tree will be bare and ready to take down.

Article written by: Angela Paulsen, published Dec 16, 2006

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New Year's Celebrations

2008-12-26T13:29:00.000-08:00

The season of entertaining is almost coming to a close with one more big night - New Year's Eve!

Stay Tuned to our upcoming ideas for New Year's entertaining ideas that will allow you, the hostess, to enjoy the ringing in of the New Year too.

Entertain with style and save @ http://www.tableambiance.com/.

Going on now - the entire website is 25% off.

HURRY while supplies last.

Shimmer and Shine Tablescapes Idea

2008-12-06T15:34:00.000-08:00

Shimmer and Shine Tablescape Idea:

When it comes to holiday parties, creating a fabulous and festive tablescape is just as important as decorating the tree. Here is a shimmering and shining tablescape idea from Celebrations.com .

Use mirrors as your base to reflect sparkly gold and silver objects for a truly elegant display that can last right through New Year's.   
First, create a table runner by placing several small, unframed square mirrors down the center of your table.
Place two or three silver, gold and/or glass pillar candle holders (you can also spray paint ones you have) on top of the mirrors.
Top them with 9" gold pillar candles or mix it up and use the gold candle holders with silver candles. 
Gather lots of silver and gold holiday-themed objects like clusters of jingle bells and shorter metallic votives and scatter them between the candle holders and down the runner.  
For a sparkly touch of nature, gather pinecones from your yard (or the craft store). Brush on some craft glue and roll the pinecones in glitter. Once dry, place a few of those down your runner as well.
For more Christmas Party Ideas:

Christmas Party Ideas
Christmas Party Games
Christmas Decorations

Thanksgiving Day Gift

2008-11-18T19:30:00.000-08:00

"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow." -Melody Beattie

Writing down what we are thankful for each day, each month or each year is a clear visualization of how much better life can really be if you concentrate on what we have instead of what we need.
This Thanksgiving add a 'Gratitude Journal' to each place setting. You can purchase a notebook at any stationary or office supply store. Add your own unique touch to it. Here are some ideas:

Wrap several strands of raffia around the width of the notebook, add a leaf or small card with the guest's name on it.
Copy the quote from above and make a bookmark to be placed inside the journal
Purchase a fall colored double sided satin ribbon and tie a big bow around the notebook and glue an acorn or leaf in the center of the bow.

However you decide to decorate it, the Gratitude Journal makes for a wonderful parting gift for your Thanksgiving guests.

Looking for other Fall Table Setting Ideas. Visit us at TableAmbiance.com.

Start your own Thanksgiving Tradition

2008-11-13T21:11:00.000-08:00

On Thanksgiving, family and friends gather around a table to visit, eat, and drink. Here is something they can do that will be remembered year after year. Start a Gratitude Tablecloth.

What is it, you might ask? Well, you can get very creative with it or keep it simple. It is entirely up to you. The simple supplies needed are a tablecloth (preferable a white or ivory one) and fabric pens. Have each guest write on the tablecloth what they are thankful for that year. They can write their name or initials next to their words or phrase with the date including the year.

Each year, your Thanksgiving guests can add their gratitude to the tablecloth. The idea is to have your guests remember what they are thankful for. It is a fun idea for all ages to participate in. And it is fun to see all the many thankful thoughts over the years.

Let us know your thought and/or comments. Drop us an email at cservice@tableambiance.com.

For other Thanksgiving Table Setting Ideas, visit us at TABLE AMBIANCE.COM for all your table setting needs.

Napkin Folding Ideas

2008-11-05T11:47:00.000-08:00

The napkin - a crucial part of a table setting for everyone at the table. Why? Each guest needs it to dine for avoiding spills on their lap and of course, to clean their lips after indulging in your fabulous feast. However, think outside the box in regards to how and where you are going to display the napkin at each placesetting. We have used this book as a great reference for folding a napkin in fun and entertaining way. The hardcover book is called "Napkins with a twist - fabulous folds with flair for every occasion" available at Amazon.com. You will be amazed at how clever the napkin can be folded.

Looking for more Fall table setting ideas, log onto wwww.tableambaince.com for all your table setting needs to make this Thanksgiving a memorable one.

Fake The Food on Thanksgiving

2008-10-30T12:25:00.000-07:00

Here is our first fake the food idea. If you have a Trader Joe's in your area, stop by and pick up a box of their pumpkin bread mix, it is a seasonal item. It is very moist and easy to make. You can be a little creative and add dried cranberries and walnuts to the mix before baking. Make pumpkin cupcakes for the kids and add mini chocolate chips to the mix. The kids at your Thanksgiving feast will love them. Stay tuned for more "Fake the Food" ideas.

Still need ideas for your Fall table setting? Visit us at http://www.tableambiance.com/ to view our Fall table setting selections.

Fall Table Setting Ideas

2008-10-28T12:15:00.000-07:00

If you want your Thanksgiving to go smoothly this year, you have some planning to do. Thanksgiving should focus more about the people you gather with then the food you serve them. Do you honestly think that your guests really on come just for the food?
Of course not, they have come to visit, reminisce about the ole days, create plans for the future, and hopefully give thanks for being in the company of such wonder family and friends.
So here are some of our ideas to make this Thanksgiving at bit more hassle free. You probably already know what we are going to say first. Set your table a few days before; don’t wait until the last minute.

If you are looking for ideas for a fall table setting visit us at http://tableambiance.com/home.php?cat=65, to see what we have created for this holiday. Unless you are using perishable items for your centerpiece or accents, set your table early. If you are worried about dust or little fingers, once you set it cover it with a light weight material. The plastic covers you get from the dry cleaners are perfect.
If you absolutely enjoy making everything from scratch by all means go for it! However, there is nothing wrong with “Faking the Food” a bit (check back with us in a few days for ideas for “faking the food”). Or have each guest bring something to contribute to the meal. We know that most people are happy to bring at least one thing toward a Thanksgiving dinner.
We are huge list makers. Our biggest suggestion is to write it all down, that way nothing is forgotten. You can even do an hourly schedule to keep you on track. For example: 1:00 make stuffing, 1:45 place bread or biscuits in basket, 2:45 take butter out of refrigerator etc…
We hope some of these tips make your Thanksgiving Holiday a bit smoother so you too can enjoy the gathering.

Visit us at http://www.tableambiance/ to see all of our selection of table setting ideas.

Thanksgiving Traditions

2008-10-26T14:32:00.000-07:00

An excerpt from the book Celebrations by Jim McCann & Jeanne Benedict:

Most of us know the story of this holiday from an elementary school play where we donned pilgrim hats or feathers acting out the first Thanksgiving feast. In the 17th century our forefathers set sail on the Mayflower in search of a happier way of life and religious freedom.
They landed at Plymouth Rock in Massachusetts around 1620. Ironically, there is no reference to the actual rock as a landing place in pilgrims' accounts, but they do cite the famed piece of granite in writings about 100 years later.
Plymouth was as good a place as any to settle and the pilgrims were soon befriended by whom we now refer to as the Native American Indians. The first winter was severe and many pilgrims lost their lives to the elements.
Seeing the hardships of these struggling people, the Indians took the pilgrims under their wing and taught them the way of the land. Squanto, as he was called by the pilgrims, and others from his tribe showed the newcomers how to plant corn and squash and to hunt and fish. As a result of working together the harvest was bountiful. A feast was held to give thanks for the gifts of the land and kindness of the Indians.
The actual date of the first Thanksgiving is unknown. In the coming years, the pilgrims feasted only when the harvest was plentiful. And over the next century records indicate that the handful of people that populated the nation had some sort of Autumnal celebration.
Apparently George Washington attempted to set Thanksgiving on November 26, 1789, but with the political turmoil of the day the feast never made it into the official records. In 1863 Abraham Lincoln proclaimed the last Thursday in November to be Thanksgiving and every president following Lincoln had made the same declaration.
It wasn't until 1941 that President Roosevelt signed a bill that designated the fourth Thursday in November as the national holiday of Thanksgiving. Some hold hands in silent prayer while others express gratitude aloud, but all gather around the table and give thanks for what they have.
Source: http://www.celebrations.com/article/Thanksgiving-Nostalgia

Create your own Thanksgiving Traditions. Visit us at http://www.tableambiance.com/ to view our Fall table setting ideas that can be easily created onto your Thanksgiving table.

Halloween Party Food Ideas

2008-10-17T12:40:00.000-07:00

This Halloween serve squishy earthworms in mud and vampire punch to your party guests. They'll get a kick out of these creepy but yummy All Hallow's Eve treat.
Let's face it. Regular old party food isn't going to cut it at your Halloween do. You're going to need to amp up the creepy factor while still serving tasty (and recognizable food) Here are some suggestions for that All Hallow's Eve bash!
1. Scary -tini's. Make any martini and sink a plastic eyeball or a gummy worm in the bottom. For a really wild one make an apple-tini in a creepy green and put a plastic finger in it. (wash the eye balls and body parts to get rid of that plastic taste and smell before you start dropping them into people's drinks
2. Devil dogs- Grill hot dogs and then serve with a fiery hot relish. An easy one is to puree five to six jalapeno peppers and one half of an onion. Spread a thin line of this on your grilled dogs. For a sweeter devil dog, start out with five to six tablespoons of barbecue sauce or ketchup, depending on your tastes, add minced jalapeno peppers and onions.
3. Fire starter burgers . For every pound of chopped meat , add one teaspoon cayenne pepper and chopped onion. Grill until done. Another method is get already prepared hamburgers, turkey or veggie burgers ,dredge them in cayenne or chili pepper and then grill or fry.
4. Halloween corn - Pop two bowls of microwave corn or use two bag s of already popped corn. Sprinkle one bowl with cheddar powder (if you can't get this in your local store then you can get it online at http://www.shopcabot.com/ - a great online cheese store). Now sprinkle the other with cracked black pepper. Put the two in a bigger bowl with one half cheese and the other black pepper. For a real cool Halloween look put the cheese corn in a black bowl and the peppered corn in an orange bowl.
5. Squishy earthworms in mud. Sautee one to one and a half pounds of ground beef or soy beef in two to three tablespoons of oil over a low heat. Add one chopped onion for flavor. Reduce heat and cover. Prepare two package of brown gravy mix. Stir into meat until thoroughly mixed. Now prepare two boxes of bucatini (about 32 ounces) in a large pot of lightly salted boiling water. When pasta is done pour meat sauce over it and serve hot.
6. Vampire Punch. Mix 2 bottles of Pom pomegranate juice with two two liter bottles of lemon lime soda. You can add strawberries preserves to act as “clots” or add skull or bone shaped ice cubes. (you can find these at http://www.baronbobs.com/.).
7. Blood shakes. Make the standard vanilla milkshake but instead of two cups of milk uses only one. Add ½ cup Pom pomegranate juice and enough red food coloring to make the shake a dark red. Serve in skull cups.
8. Boneyard Cake. Prepare chocolate or devil's food cake according to package instructions. Pour into two eight inch in diameter pans.. You can use your own recipe for fudge frosting or a prepared one. Once the layers are cooled, you can then ice the bottom one with the frosting. Scatter candy bones over this and then put on the second layer. Using the rest of frosting , ice top and sides. For the headstones you can use square shortbreads or Pepperidge Farm Milano cookies cut in half. Write RIP on these and stick into the cake's top. For added ghoulishness, you can leave a few bones scattered amongst these or even put a toy fence around the cake. This Halloween serve fun and scary food at your party. Your guests will get a thrill out of these eerie but tasty treats! Now have a skull full of vampire punch and join the crowd!

Source: http://www.gomestic.com/Entertaining/Ghoulish-Goodies-for-Your-Halloween-Bash.291781

Visit Table Ambiance today for all your table setting needs. Great prices and wonderful services. We have the table setting products you need today to make your table settings look great tomorrow. Visit us at http://www.tableambiance.com/.

Holiday Table Setting Ideas. Setting A Festive Table

2008-09-10T14:25:00.000-07:00

Holiday Table Setting Ideas. Setting A Festive Table

Don't let Martha intimidate you. Setting a beautiful holiday table may be easier -- and cheaper -- than you think.

You don't have to know what a charger is. You don't have to own separate salad, dinner, fish and dessert forks. And, according to celebrity party planner David Tutera, "you don't have to spend a lot of money, just a little time and effort."

Whether you're hosting a casual or formal affair, the table can instantly set the mood for your dinner guests. Allison Reynolds, an editor and stylist, maintains that "it is about not over-decorating or over-planning the decor." The former home market editor for the defunct Budget Living magazine and current contributor to the Shelterrific design Web site added that "there are so many choices out there. Keep it simple and organic."

If you're limited on space and money, what should be the priority? According to Tutera, a unique centerpiece is the most important element of a striking table design. Although he has worked with the rich and famous -- including the Rolling Stones, former Vice President Al Gore and Elton John -- he has plenty of ideas for low-cost centerpieces.

"For a contemporary look, take a collection of simple glass vases you may already have, fill them with water, and add red food coloring to tint the water. Then add floating candles, place them down the center of your table, and accent with clusters of simple round ornaments," he said.

"For a more traditional and rustic look, take empty soup cans and turn them into unique vases for flowers. Simply wrap the outside of the can with cinnamon sticks around the outside of the cans, affix them with a rubber band along the top and another at the bottom. Then cover the band with raffia or leftover ribbon."

In his book, "The Party Planner," Tutera provides tips for a holiday dessert party inspired by candy canes. Glass vases are filled with alternating layers of rock candy and cranberries. A display is made with a glass bowl, layered with red feathers, and topped with an ornament.

"Candles are a great way to add a festive glow for little expense," Tutera said. But avoid scented ones, he advised. "Keep them in the powder room or living room. Let the aroma of the food entice your guests at the table."

But be careful when shopping at big discount retailers, said San Francisco event planner Alison Hotchkiss: "Ikea can be a great resource, but you know when something looks too Ikea? You don't want that. It's a balance of eclectic old and new."

Last year, Hotchkiss went with an all-white theme for the holidays -- decorating with white mum flower balls and white pillar candles, and even serving (what else?) White Russian cocktails. White faux fur throws over chairs created a cozy yet elegant look. (There's another tip: don't overlook texture as a design element.)

When setting the table, little things can go a long way in making guests more comfortable. "You can use mini-ramekins at each setting with individual salt and pepper so there's less passing and arms flailing across the table," said Reynolds. She also recommends keeping carafes of water within easy reach of guests.

Tutera said that "a great soft background music mix adds so much to any dinner or party." And he warns that "one of the biggest things people overlook is place cards. Whether a small or large, casual or formal party, the host should always take the time to think about where everyone should sit." Simple folded tent cards will suffice.

For a free alternative, turn to nature. "Use fall leaves placed at each setting," suggested Hotchkiss. "Use a colored Sharpie to write the guest's name." With larger leaves, this idea can be applied to the dinner menu.

Reynolds is also a big fan of leaves. "I'm a bit of a connoisseur," she said, "so I find I have a nice collection and can spread them on the table or write little notes for place settings." Pine cones, acorns, twigs and rocks are other good options for table decor. "There is always something outside that is more beautiful than something money can buy."

Tutera has a few nature-inspired tricks up his sleeve as well. "Holly branches look great incorporated into a wreath or laid down flat for a table runner or on a mantel," he said. "Birch logs also look great as the base of pillar candle holders." Cut the birch into 3-inch slices and top with a pillar candle. For tapered candles, drill a 1-inch deep hole in the log but be sure to never leave candles unattended.

Think about objects that can be recycled. For example, Tutera suggested taping together old holiday cards to make placemats. Cardboard paper towel rolls can be cut into segments and, with a bit of creativity, transformed into napkin rings.

Once the table is set, remember to relax and enjoy the evening. The hosts should not appear to be working or stressed out.

"I hate when people are picky about the spillage, so avoid caring too much if the cloth gets messy," Reynolds said. "A sign of a good time is a slightly messy tablecloth."

Source: Anh-Minh Le is a frequent contributor to Home&Garden. E-mail her at home@sfchronicle.com.

Visit Table Ambiance today for all your table setting needs. Great prices and wonderful services. We have the table setting products you need today to make your table settings look great tomorrow. Visit us at http://www.tableambiance.com/

Exotic Table Settings . Table Decorating For An Outdoor Soiree.

2008-09-10T14:15:00.000-07:00

Exotic Table Settings . Table Decorating For An Outdoor Soiree

Dress up an outdoor rendezvous with your own personal touch. Whether you are looking for an exotic, elegant, casual, or beach theme, spice up your party with these simple and affordable table decorating ideas.

Exotic Table Settings
Express your exotic side with neutral base colors and bold accents. Keep your base colors natural, opting for earth tones. Then match tablecloths, napkins, chargers, and vases that have natural colors with an exotic pattern.

Bright colors like coral and turquoise, are ideal accent colors for an exotic theme. Be sure to get coordinating napkin rings, plates, glasses, flowers, pillows, chair covers, and silverware in bold colors to stand out against the neutrals. Summer is the perfect time to use bold colors and patterns, so go big and impressive.

Classic Table Settings
Yellow and blue are the quintessential classic summer colors. Use a blue tablecloth and napkins with yellow plates and bowls. Arrange a vase full of yellow flowers or fill a vase with bright yellow lemons for a beautiful table centerpiece.

Elegant Table Settings
Even if you are throwing a garden party in your backyard, you can still make it elegant with regal rich colors, such as brown, gold, and dark green partnered with silver tableware. Use elaborate candleholders and goblets for the feeling of grandeur.

Beach-themed table settings
If you are looking for that “day at the beach” vibe, stick with bright blues and crisp whites. Use bright blue placemats topped with bright white dishes. Keep the table setting to a minimum to maintain a casual feel. Group large seashells in the middle of the table for an oceanic centerpiece.

Source: Diana De Cicco is a food editor and writer based in New York City. She has a master’s degree from New York University in Food Studies. Her passions are eating, traveling, and eating while traveling.

Visit Table Ambiance today for all your outside table setting needs. Great prices and wonderful services. We have the table setting products you need today to make your table settings look great tomorrow. Visit us at http://www.tableambiance.com

Tablescaping: The Art of Table Setting

2008-09-10T14:06:00.000-07:00

Tablescaping: The Art of Table Setting

A few ideas on how to make beautiful table settings for special occasions.

Setting your table for a holiday dinner, or any dinner party, should be more than a practical arrangement of plates and flatware. Your tablescape should be a work of art. It should reflect not only the warm welcome you want to show your guests, but also serve as an artistic venue for the fabulous meal you're about to present.

Here are some ideas for terrific tablescapes:
For the sophisticated Christmastime dinner party, set your table using solid colors and simple ornamentation. Begin with a dark green tablecloth. Linen is an excellent choice of material, or use a cloth with a subtle sheen to it. For your dinnerware use white china, silverware with a simple pattern, etched stemware and white linen napkins. Your serving ware, if being placed on the table, should be white as well. Place a brilliant red linen table runner along the center of your table, lengthwise. Depending on how long your table is, place silver candlesticks with white candles at intervals along the runner. Don't forget to use dripless candles.

Is the dinner more casual? Use a patterned tablecloth in bold holiday colors. Instead of etched stemware, use tumblers. Replace the candlesticks and candles with small decorative bowls filled with wrapped candies.

This simple premise of layering - tablecloth, place setting and serving ware, and ornamentation - described above can be adjusted to accommodate your existing dinnerware. If your holiday china has a pattern, play off the colors with your tablecloth, napkins and runner. Use the runner to set off the centerpiece or ornamentations.

If your celebrating a summer holiday, such as the Fourth of July, it's likely your setting isn't going to be as formal. That doesn't mean your table can't be just as striking.

Using the same concept of layering, set your table to play up the feel of the holiday. If your party is outdoors, you can use a vinyl red checked tablecloth, red, white and blue melamine dinnerware, brightly colored plastic tumblers, and inexpensive flatware. Put paper napkins in oversized plastic cups so guests can help themselves.

Use pinwheels in a small plastic bucket waited with sand or rocks for your ornamentation.

A good tip if your eating outdoors is to weight the corners of your tablecloth. Fill four small plastic bags with colorful stones and tie them with ribbons. Then attach these to the corners of your tablecloth. Use a hole punch to create the hole and thread the ribbon through.

Want to add a little more to your work of art? For each place setting, place a small piece of Styrofoam on a small dish. Stick a small paper flag in the Styrofoam and cover the foam and dish with moss. This creates a little hill with a flag on top.

Obviously, using holiday colors or the holiday itself is the starting point in the examples given so far. If your party doesn't have a central theme, find your inspiration in the season.

For a winter party, create this warm tablescape for your guests.

Begin with a bright white tablecloth. On top of that, place a smaller, dark blue cloth. Use thin, double sided tape at the corners to keep the top cloth from sliding. Now add a deep gold table runner, preferably one with embroidery or damask patterning.

For your place settings, use white dinnerware with a gold accent. Add dark blue napkins in gold napkin rings. If possible, use gold plated flatware, and glassware rimmed in gold. For ornamentation, place an oblong white bowl with gold trim in the center and fill it with silk flowers of various colors, predominately gold. Add a few, low round candles on decorative plates along the table's center.

The examples given demonstrate the basic tenets of tablescaping: theme, layers, and color. They also demonstrate traditional pairings and formats. Once you begin crafting tablescapes, you'll find yourself adding more layers and patterns, and becoming more creative with ornamentation. Tablescaping may become one of your favorite parts of giving a party.

Source:http://www.gomestic.com/Entertaining/Tablescaping-The-Art-of-Table-Setting.52152

Visit Table Ambiance today for all your table setting needs. Great prices and wonderful services. We have the table setting products you need today to make your table settings look great tomorrow. Visit us at http://www.tableambiance.com

A Baby is a Gift

2008-08-27T12:01:00.000-07:00

Think pink!

That was the original theme for the baby shower my mom and I planned for my cousin, who is having a girl. My mom did such an amazing job pulling all different elements together to make the tables incredible, but after all the elements were put together, we decided the theme should have been "A baby is a gift". Because we had "packages' all over the place. My mom had such a great idea by using the gifts from us as the centerpiece. Table runners were placed across the table so the table itself looked like a package. We used large pink safety pins as napkin rings. My cousin has a huge sweet tooth, so we filled glass baby bottle with jelly beans and tied a "it's a girl" ribbon around for fun. For this occasion, we definitely used our favorite motto "Fake the Food". We purchased boxed lunches and cupcakes for dessert, so we could spend more time on the fun part, setting the tables!

Share your favorite baby theme with us.

Email us at cservice@tableambiance.com.

Happy Entertaining!

We were on TV, again

2008-08-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

My mom and I had the pleasure of doing another segment with View From the Bay's House Doctor Lisa Quinn. She was so much fun to work and visit with. To view our 4th of July segment, click here. To view our recent segment about tips on setting a table click here.

We are in the middle of designing our Fall and Holiday table settings, so stay tuned.

If you have any comment or suggestion, please do not hesitate to contact us at cservice@tableambiance.com.

To view Lisa Quinn's website visit her at http://www.lisaquinninc.com/.

Family Gathering

2008-08-03T20:18:00.000-07:00

Talk about the ultimate gathering.... a family reunion. About every other year we gather from my mother's side of the family to catch up with everyone, laugh and cry while remembering the ones that are no longer with us, and chat about the promising future. My cousins hosted this year at their beautiful home in Petaluma. They did such an amazing job! They made all the food which was delicious, provided endless beverages, and took pictures throughout the day to cherish the memorizes made that day. Coming from a large Italian family, most gatherings are all about the food, and this year my mother and another cousin gathered family recipes from the entire family and created our own family reunion cookbook. It is filled with wonderful recipes created from past generation, new concoctions, family favorites, and to top it off old photos from the past. It was truly a memorable occasion.

But the most important thing we all remember is, besides the great food, we just love to gather!

We hope you have the opportunity to gather with your family or friends before the summer runs out.

Happy Entertaining!

The summer heats up

2008-07-07T15:07:00.001-07:00

The temperature of the summer heats up. Table Ambiance can help you create a seaside table settings to help cool your party guests down, well........almost. We have created a fun yet easy table setting to be enjoyed outside or inside. We have provided the idea, now all you need to do is decide what elements you already have and which new ones you need to make it just right.