Easter Egg Decorating Party
Traditions for egg decorating differ from country to country and across cultures as well. Sometimes eggs are painted, dyed, and even carved! Three of my favorite techniques for decorating are below.
Dyeing eggs with Kool-Aid is a fun twist on traditionally decorating eggs. All you really need is unsweetened Kool-Aid packets, water, hard-boiled eggs, a spoon, and ball jars. For directions on how to dye your eggs with different patterns, click here.
Another favorite of mine is decorating eggs in a modern way – decoupaging or egg-oupaging if you will. The French term decoupage translates to “a cutting out” and I’ve made it modern by using fashion mags and celebrity rags. For further instructions on how to egg-oupage, click here.
Taking it to another level, mega modern, you can use crafting scraps for un-eggs-pected designs! They’re perfect as the prize egg in any fashionable egg hunt!
Un-eggs-pected sweet treats are great for hungry little (and big) egg hunters! You can make these egg-shaped treats ahead of time for your party or egg hunt. For no-bake eggs-treme marshmallow cereal treats, use Fruity Pebbles Xtreme for the bright neon colors. Egg sandwich pops, a variation on cake pops, are great for the spring as well! For directions on how to make both of these, click here.
An easy way to add color to your table is to mix and match your table décor. Start with a tablecloth (you can even use a shower curtain or window curtain with colorful patterns) and build from there! Add a centerpiece using some of the un-eggs-pected treats on sticks and plant them in a round vase of wheat grass. Layer different-colored plates on your table that compliment the colors of the tablecloth. For utensils and an added surprise for your guests, make a carrot pouch filled with jelly beans out of an orange napkin, green plastic utensils, and green pipe cleaners.
Easter Egg Decorating Party: Traditional Eggs
Dye your eggs with a Kool (Aid) Twist on the traditional way of decorating eggs! It’s a fun and easy way to utilize the bright colors Kool-Aid has to offer and it also smells great while you’re dyeing your eggs! You can also mix the different flavors in order to come up with new colors (for example: Lemonade and Berry Blue will give you a green). Tip: Lands’ End has cute monogrammed egg baskets that are perfect for an egg hunt!
All you have to do is remember 2 and 2 – two unsweetened packets of Kool-Aid (they can be the same two flavors or two different flavors if you’re mixing colors) and 2 tablespoons of water. I used wide-mouth Ball jars to mix my Kool-Aid because they have lids and are great for preventing spillage.
Place your hard-boiled egg into the jar and roll it around for even coverage. For deeper colors, submerge the eggs for longer. Quickly rinse the eggs with water to let the color set and transfer the eggs to a cooling rack with paper towels underneath.
You can create different types of patterns on the eggs with rubber bands, scrapbooking stickers, and rubber cement.
- When using rubber bands, double-wrap them over the eggs to make sure the dye doesn’t seep underneath and use varying sizes for different effects.
- You can monogram your eggs by placing scrapbooking letter stickers on a dry egg before submerging it into the Kool-Aid.
- Drizzle rubber cement onto an egg and let it dry completely (it will be slightly sticky/tacky). Submerge your egg into the Kool-Aid and after rinsing it, make sure the egg dries completely before peeling off the rubber cement. The rubber cement will give your egg an abstract design.
Tip: Make sure you let the Kool-Aid dry completely before you take off the rubber bands, scrapbooking stickers, and rubber cement.
Easter Egg Decorating Party: Modern Eggs
Decorate your eggs by decoupaging them or “egg-oupaging” them if you will. Decoupaging is the French term for “a cutting out” and you can make it modern by using cut outs of fashion mags and celeb rags. Display your eggs in a classic wire egg basket in order to really show off the designs.
Materials: hard-boiled eggs, magazines, scissors, mod podge glue, foam brush.
Cut out celebrity faces, fun words, and different patterns from magazines and separate them into different piles. Place a thin layer of mod podge glue on the part of the egg that you’re covering, then place your magazine cut outs on top of it. Secure your cut outs with a thin layer of mod podge glue.
Tip: Use colored tissue paper as a base or a filler as needed.
- Celebrity-inspired eggs – celebrity couples, celebrity besties, and even the royal couple and the Queen! Use text to accentuate the images (for example, “Put a ring on it” for Beyonce).
- Text-covered eggs – layer headlines over article text and use words or hot sayings that pop or stand out!
- Designer eggs – layer different designs, patterns and colors! This is great for incorporating spring colors into your Easter eggs!
Get creative and have fun with your egg-oupaging!
Easter Egg Decorating Party: Un-Eggs-pected Treats
Make egg-shaped or “un-eggs-pected” treats ahead of time for your party guests to enjoy after their egg hunt! Egg sandwich pops, similar to cake pops and eggs-treme marshmallow cereal treats made out of Fruity Pebbles Xtreme are both no-bake spring-time treats and fun for the family!
Egg Sandwich Pops
Materials:
-oval-shaped butter crackers
-peanut butter
-Wilton candy melts in different colors
-lollipop sticks
-sprinkles
-wax paper
Directions:
1. Spread peanut butter over an oval-shaped butter cracker.
2. Place a lollipop stick on top of the peanut butter and sandwich it with another cracker. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for multiple sandwich pops.
3. Place them in the refrigerator to set.
4. Melt the Wilton candy melts in the microwave according to the directions on the packaging.
5. Dip your sandwich pops in the candy melts to get an even coating. Decorate with sprinkles or to your liking and set it on the wax paper to harden.
Eggs-treme Marshmallow Treats
Materials:
-11 oz. box of Fruity Pebbles Xtreme
-1 bag of regular-sized marshmallows
-1/4 cup of butter
-egg-shaped cookie cutter or plastic eggs that open and lollipop sticks
-large microwave-safe mixing bowl
-large cooking sheet
The marshmallow treats can be made two different ways, depending on your preference. If you decide to use plastic eggs to mold the treats into more of a 3-dimensional egg, you can put them on lollipop sticks and they make for a great centerpiece! You can also use an egg-shaped cookie cutter for flat cereal treats.
Directions:
1. Microwave the butter and marshmallows in a large microwave-safe mixing bowl on high for 2 minutes.
2. Stir together when melted and microwave on high for another minute.
3. Stir in the Fruity Pebbles and mix until evenly coated.
4a. For the pops, fill plastic eggs with the mixture and put them in the refrigerator to set. Once set, take them out of the shell and place a lollipop stick in the bottom of the egg.
4b. For egg treats using the cookie cutter, spread the mixture flat onto a cooking sheet. Use the cookie cutter to cut out egg shapes out of the cereal treats. Put them in the refrigerator to set.
Holiday Door Décor
‘Tis the holiday season and it’s time to deck the halls, tree…or other parts of your home!
Don’t have your Holiday decorations all wrapped up in a bow? Not to fear, I’m here with holiday decorating cheer for tips on decorating the most visited spot in your home…the front door, inside and out!
I’ll show you how to decorate your front door in one of the three themes; traditional, modern and free form. The outside of your door is the first thing guests see when entering your home, so why not make it the most festive spot as well! The inside of your front door is the last thing they may see; so don’t forget to decorate the inside to make a lasting holiday impression!
Click on the links below for details and instructions on how to decorate your door with ease.
The Traditional Door
Using holiday colors, you can decorate your door with a traditional pine wreath adorned with ribbons, bows, ornaments, and lights.
The Modern Door
With an empty wire wreath form, you can “fill in the blanks” with ornaments, holiday tchotchkes, toys, and decorative lights.
The Free Form Door
By using damage free clips, you can outline the shape of your choice with lights and then fill in the shape with ornaments to transform your front door into something festive.
Entertain U – A Fairy Tale in the Hamptons
With years of experience and industry knowledge, Designer and Entertaining Expert, Mark Addison, shares his tricks of the trade with an exciting new party planning series, Entertain! While enjoying the party, guests are “schooled” on the makings of a successful event, from learning how to prepare the menu to step-by-step instructions on how to create inspired table decor. Mark will arm these ladies with pro party planning tools and tips to be prepared for any entertaining challenge.
Fairy Tales do come true. Mark will show you how to incorporate the age old fairy tales into an intimate gathering with your girlfriends. Using both “Happily Ever After” Fairy Tales and “Grimm” Fairy Tales, Mark will concoct the perfect party menu filled with tale-icious cocktails, a magical menu and an imaginary world of decor.
Click the links below for more of Mark’s Entertain U – A Fairy Tale in the Hamptons
Tale-icious Cocktails:
Poison Apple
Stroke of Midnight
Sleeping Potion
Magical Menu:
Princess and the Pea Soup
Beauty and the Beet Salad
Jack and the Bean Dip
Gingerbread Trifles with Sugared Candies
Lady Slippers
Sweet and Savory Nuts
How to set the table with:
Imaginary World of Decor
Click the link below to download Mark’s Entertain U Fairy Tale Recipe Cards!
Entertain U Fairy Tale Recipe Cards
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Poison Apple
Serve in a champagne flute
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Smirnoff apple vodka
- 2 oz Sparkling Apple Cider
- 2 oz fresh pressed Apple Juice
- Splash of grenadine
- Candied ginger for garnish
Method:
- In a large cocktail shaker, combine apple vodka and apple juice. Shake well.
- Fill an eye dropper with grenadine and set off to the side with a bowl of candied ginger.
- Strain the contents of the cocktail shaker into a champagne flute, top off with sparkling apple cider, add three drops of grenadine to the cocktail from the eye dropper and garnish with a piece of candied ginger.
For more of Mark’s Entertain U – A Fairy Tale in the Hampton’s, click here!
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Stroke of Midnight
Serve in a martini glass
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ oz Smirnoff vodka
- ¾ oz Kahlua coffee liqueur
- ¼ oz crème de cacao
- 1 oz cold Nespresso espresso
Method:
- Pour the vodka, Kahlua, crème de cacao, and espresso into a cocktail shaker with ice
- Shake well
- Strain into a chilled wine glass
For more of Mark’s Entertain U – A Fairy Tale in the Hampton’s, click here!
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Sleeping Potion
Serve in an all purpose glass
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Smirnoff Raspberry vodka
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 oz fresh squeezed orange juice
- 1 orange curl
- 2 oz Soda Water
Method:
- Pour the vodka and lime juice into a shaker with ice
- Shake well and serve on the rocks
- Using a eye dropper, squeeze fresh squeezed orange juice from an apothecary jar into the vodka and lime juice for color and taste.
- Garnish with an orange curl
For more of Mark’s Entertain U – A Fairy Tale in the Hampton’s, click here!
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Princess and the Pea Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 cups chopped leeks, which and light green parts (2 leeks)
- ½ cup chopped yellow onion
- 2 cups chicken stock, preferably homemade
- 2 ½ cups freshly shelled peas
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh mint leaves, loosely packed
- 1 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ cup creme fraiche
- ¼ cup chopped chives
- Prosciutto Bacon
Method:
- Heat the butter in a large saucepan, add the leeks and onion and cook over medium-low heat for 5-10 minutes, until the onion is tender
- Add the chicken stock, increase the heat to high, and bring to a boil.
- Add the peas and cook for 3-5 minutes, until the peas are tender (frozen peas will take only 3 minutes)
- Take off the heat, add the mint and pepper
- Puree the soup in batches: place one cup of soup in a blender, place the lid on top and puree on low speed.
- With the blender still funning, open the vent hole in the lid and slowly add more soup until the blender is 3/4 full. Pour the soup into a large bowl and repeat until all the soup is pureed
- Whisk in the crème fraiche and chives and taste for seasoning
- Spoon pea soup into shot glasses and garnish with a dollop of crème fraiche and prosciutto bacon
For more of Mark’s Entertain U – A Fairy Tale in the Hampton’s, click here!
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Jack and the Bean Dip
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cooked cannelloni beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/3 cup olive oil, plus 4 tablespoons
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 12 slices of Pepperidge Farm Thin Sliced White and Wheat Bread
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano
- Crown shaped Wilton cookie cutter
Method:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit
- Cut each piece of bread into pieces with a crown shaped Wilton cookie cutter
- Arrange the crown shaped bread on a large baking sheet
- Pour the remaining oil over the pitas
- Toss and spread out the wedges evenly
- Sprinkle with oregano, salt and pepper
- Bake for 8-12 minutes or until tasted and golden in color
- Serve the pita toasts warm or at room temperature alongside the bean puree
- Place the beans, garlic, lemon juice, and 1/3 cup olive oil in the work bowl of a food processor
- Pulse until the mixture is coarsely chopped
- Season with salt and pepper, to taste
- Transfer the bean puree into a small bowl
For more of Mark’s Entertain U – A Fairy Tale in the Hampton’s, click here!
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Beauty and the Beet Salad
Ingredients:
- 4 medium grilled beets, scrubbed, trimmed and cut in half
- 1/3 cup candied pecans
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 (10 oz) package mixed baby salad greens
- 1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 oz goat cheese, 1 medallian for each serving
Method:
- Place beets onto the grill with a bit of olive oil until tender. Let cool, then cut into cubes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, balsamic vinegar and olive oil to make the dressing.
- Place in a large helping of baby greens on each serving dish or bowl, divide candied pecans equally and sprinkle over the greens. Place equal amounts of beets over the green, and top with medallians of goat cheese.
- Drizzle each plate with some of the dressing.
For more of Mark’s Entertain U – A Fairy Tale in the Hampton’s, click here!
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Gingerbread Trifles with Sugar Candies
Ingredients:
- Gingerbread cake
- Fresh whipped cream with a hint of Chambord
- Fresh Blackberries
- Push Pop containers
- Candied Ginger
Method:
- Using circular cookie cutters, cut the gingerbread into small circles a bit smaller than the mouth of the push pop container. Using the push pop containers, layer the gingerbread cake, blackberries and whipped cream alternating each layer.
- Top off each trifle with whipped cream and garnish with candied ginger and fresh blackberries.
For more of Mark’s Entertain U – A Fairy Tale in the Hampton’s, click here!
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Lady Slippers
Ingredients:
- Lady Fingers
- White Chocolate Candy Melts
- Fresh Raspberries
- Pearl Luster Dust
- Fresh whipped Cream
- Pearl sugar pieces
Method:
- Melt the chocolate candy melts in a double boiler or chocolate melter until it is smooth
- Dip the flat end of the raspberry into the melted chocolate and apply it to the underside of the lady finger at one end.
- Once chocolate is hardened, turn the lady finger over and pipe a small amount of whipped cream on the opposite end of the lady finger from the raspberry.
- Dust with a small amount of pearl luster dust and garnish with fresh whipped cream with pearl sugar pieces.
For more of Mark’s Entertain U – A Fairy Tale in the Hampton’s, click here!
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Sweet and Savory Nuts
For Rosemary Spiced Pecans:
Ingredients:
- Vegetable Oil
- 6 cups whole unsalted pecans
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- ¼ cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
- 2 tablespoons ground chipotle powder (or another spice like ancho chili pepper or Spanish paprika)
- 4 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary leaves, divided
- Kosher Salt
Method:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
- Brush a sheet pan generously with vegetable oil, or cover with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, add the nuts.
- In another small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, the maple syrup, brown sugar, orange juice, and chipotle powder (or other spice) and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into the nuts and toss well.
- Add the chopped rosemary and 2 teaspoons of salt and toss again.
- Spread the nuts in one layer on the baking pan. Roast the nuts for 25 minutes, stirring twice with a large spatula, until the nuts are glazed and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with 2 more teaspoons of salt and remaining 2 tablespoons of rosemary
- Toss well and set aside at room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking as they cool. Taste for seasoning. Serve warm or completely cool in an airtight storage containers at room temperature.
For Vanilla Lavender Cashews:
Ingredients:
- Vegetable Oil
- 6 cups whole unsalted roasted cashews
- ¼ cup lightly brown sugar, lightly packed
- 1/3 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons ground vanilla beans
- 4 tablespoons minced fresh lavender, divided
Method:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
- Brush a sheet pan generously with vegetable oil, or cover with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, add the nuts.
- In another small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, the brown sugar, honey, and ground vanilla and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into the nuts and toss well.
- Add the chopped lavender and toss again.
- Spread the nuts in one layer on the baking pan. Roast the nuts for 25 minutes, stirring twice with a large spatula, until the nuts are glazed and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with remaining 2 tablespoons of lavender
- Toss well and set aside at room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking as they cool. Taste for seasoning, add salt if needed. Serve warm or completely cool in an airtight storage containers at room temperature.
For more of Mark’s Entertain U – A Fairy Tale in the Hampton’s, click here!
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Fairy Tale Decor
Fairy Tale Tablecloth
When planninging the perfect Fairy Tale event, it is quite simple. Start with a golden embroidered tablecloth as the start of the fairy tale tabletop. This table linen is from William Sonoma and can be found at your local store.
Napkin Rings and Linen Napkins
Your napkin rings and linen napkins should be simple. Use gold or silver paper with Mark’s Table Chameleon Napkin Rings to accompany white or ivory linen napkins.
Lighting
Using small gold and silver votive holders and votive candles, add a bit of ambiance to the tabletop.
Golden Beanstalk Centerpieces
Using glass vases and floral frogs, place grape vines in the vases. The floral frogs should keep the vines in place.
Add hydrangeas, fresh lavender and lilies to the arrangement by placing them in the spaces between the vines.
Fill the bottom of the vase with colored pebbles to hide the floral frog.
Fill the vase 3/4 with water and place in the center of your table.
For longer tables, create several small arrangements to run the length of the table.
A Magical Setting
Make colored paste by combining gel food coloring, vodka and confectionary sugar.
Using a rose stencil and a stencil brush, apply the colored paste to the plates to create a rose pattern on the rims of the white dinner plates. You may also decorate these plates free form as Ann Mercogliano from LIVE From The Couch and Mark did in the picture above.
Allow to dry before plating with food.
Place the decorated plates on top of oval mirrors to create a magical effect on your tabletop.
Garnish the table with additional mirrors of numerous sizes to add dimension to the tabletop. Glass domes atop mirrors with single rosebuds add another great touch to the table.
Stagger colorful pillows on the chairs and benches to allow extra comfort for your guests. The pillows shown above are from Judy Ross textiles and can be found here.
For more of Mark’s Entertain U – A Fairy Tale in the Hampton’s, click here!
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Entertain U Fairy Tale Recipe Cards
To download Mark’s Entertain U Fairy Tale Recipe Cards, click here!
For more of Mark’s Entertain U – A Fairy Tale in the Hampton’s, click here!
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Mark’s Father’s Day Entertaining Gifts and Tools
Getting that perfect gift for Dad can be tricky, but I have entertaining gifts for any kind of Dad … and we’re not just talking ties and power tools! I will cover all bases for Dads from smooth talking (and drinking) Mad Men to tech-savvy X-Men and even Mr. Mom! Discover your Dad’s type as I pair purposeful items to help Dad entertain that are equally entertaining for Dad himself.
For more of my Father’s Day Entertaining Gifts for Dad, click the links below!
Mad Men Dad
X Men Dad
Mr. Mom
The PERFECT Father’s Day Recipes
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Mad Man Dad – The Power Player
He’s definitely got a man cave he retreats to. He does enjoy his alone time yet also has many friends especially very close friends he had since childhood. Mad Men Dads entertain with a passion for making people feel welcome and have everything they need – the consummate host.
The PERFECT Entertaining Gifts and Tools for The Mad Man Dad:
Johnnie Walker Blue Label – Personalized Spirits Bottles
- Johnnie Walker Blue Label, the world’s leading Scotch whisky brand, is blended from the rarest and most exquisite whiskies available to the House of Walker
- Johnnie Walker offers a complimentary engraving service on bottles of its finest blended Scotch Whisky, Johnnie Walker Blue Label which turns this already rare whisky into a truly memorable and one-of-a-kind gift
- Messages of up to 45 characters in length may be engraved in multiple languages including specific phrases in Chinese, Korean and Hindi
- National engraving is available at 877-SPIRITS.com; to find out about engraving in your city, visit JohnnieWalker.com
- To order an engraved bottle in time for Father’s Day call 1-877-JW-Blue-Label (orders placed by June 14th can be expedited for Father’s Day)
- New Yorkers can also visit the engraving studio in Grand Central Terminal
There are two ways to serve whiskey: On the rocks or neat!
The Perfect Ice Cubes
- Skybar™ Whiskey Chill Drops
- Enjoy a whiskey on the rocks without diluting your drink’s flavor and aroma, Skybar™ Chill Drops are an innovative, reusable alternative to ice cubes
- Simply place a pre-chilled stainless-steel drop in your glass and your drink stays cold.
- Pre-chill in the freezer for at least 3 hours prior to use
- Chill drops fit in a standard cocktail glass
- The set includes two Whiskey Chill Drops and two holders that protect tabletops and other surfaces from moisture
- Available at William Sonoma – $39.95
- King Cube Silicone Ice Cube Trays
- To keep cocktails, soda, lemonade and iced tea perfectly chilled, pour them over generously sized ice cubes made in our unique trays.
- The 2” cubes melt slowly to keep drinks colder longer, and it’s easy to create flavor infusions by freezing fruits, herbs, or citrus zest right into the ice.
- With the King Cubes you can customize cubes with your favorite garnishes
- Each flexible silicone trays makes 4 two-inch square ice cubes that release cubes instantly
- Available at William Sonoma - $19.95
Rocks Glasses with “Personality” - Orrefors Street Rocks Glasses and Ice Bucket designed by Jan Johansson
- The hand-cut grid pattern suggests Manhattan’s famous street network, while the symmetrical décor lends and outspokenly masculine air to the series as a whole
- The ice bucket, besides the decorative cutting, features two square, black handles
- Indeed, its square-cut clear décor and contrasting black details seem practically decadent
- Orrefors Information
- Orrefors has produced utility glass and art glass made of crystal since 1898.
- At the glassworks in Smaland, Sweden, skilled Orrefors glassmakers work with some of Sweden’s top designers to develop craftsmanship, design, and new techniques. Timeless Scandinavian elegance, innovative design and genuine craftsmanship are the defining characteristics of Orrefors products
- Orrefors regularly presents new collections of utility glassware produced in large-volume series and limited-edition art glass.
- Orrefors Information
The Perfect Food Pairings for The Mad Man Dad: 50′s style bar snacks are perfect to serve with this classic cocktail!
Mixed Nuts
- Click here for the recipe!
Dried Cherries
Macy’s Cheese Sticks
Fried Green Beans
- Green beans make great fries too!
- Snappy with garden-fresh flavor, lightly dipped in a crunchy batter and fried until golden.
- Simply crisp in your oven and enjoy this restaurant-quality snack or side dish any time.
- A must-have dipping delight, serve with Honey Mustard
- Available for purchase at www.schwans.com or by calling 1.888.724.9267
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X Men Dad – The Techie
He’s extremely logical. He’s a computer savy and enjoys math and science. Yet he’s also extremely creative. He is a fan of fiction stories and particularly loves science fiction. Xmen Dads entertain with all of the latest gadgets for sharing photos, movies on demand – he’s the guy with the digital photo album on his phone.
The PERFECT Entertaining and Gifts and Tools for The X Men Dad:
3M Pocket Video projector – Home Movies On-The-Go
- With 3M’s latest mobile projector, the 225a, anyone can create a memorable summer moment by hosting the ultimate, outdoor movie night with family and friends which adds a fun entertainment layer to any backyard or rooftop party
- It’s quick and easy to connect the projector to any mobile device, including the Apple iPad
- The 3M MP225s can project up to 80’ on virtually any flat surface and offers a full, two hour battery life
- Available at target or 3mmobileprojectors.com for $299.99
3M iPad Screen Protectors: Antiglare and Fingerprint Fading Screen Projectors – The Perfect Accessory for the Techie Dad!
- 3M has added to new screen protectors to it’s long line of natural view screen protector products – Anti-Glare and Fingerprint Fading.
- Antiglare Screen Protectors
- New matte screen protector makes it easy to read mobile devices outdoors and in bright light conditions.
- Perfect for summer reading by the pool or at the beach.
- Available for new Apple iPad/iPad 2, iPhone 4S and popular ereaders.
- Available at Target – $19.99
- Fingerprint Fading Screen Protectors
- First ever clear, glossy screen protector that fades fingerprints overtime without reducing the screen’s pristine display.
- Great for parents who are tied of cleaning their screen after letting their kids play games or watch movies on their iPad.
- Available for new Apple iPad/iPad 2
- Website: www.3MScreens.com – $24.99
- Antiglare Screen Protectors
The Tech Savvy Watch – For Family Photos On-Demand
- LunaTik Lynk
- The Lynk is available in lightweight silver or black aluminum with a silicone underbelly to offer comfort against the skin and full butterfly clasp
- Compatible with iPod Nano 6th/7th Generation (not included)
- $139.95 for Black aluminum and $129.95 for Silver aluminum
- Black TikTok
- Simple snap-in design that allows the user to quickly and securely snap the iPod Nano in and out of the wrist dock
- Cleanly and simply integrates the Nano and transforms it into a modern, multi-function timepiece.
- Designed for those who want to easily transition from clip mode or watch mode
- Molded for reinforced PC/ABS and the straps are made from compression molded high-grade silicone rubber with an anti-dust coating, all hardware is stainless steel
- Compatible with iPod Nano 6th/7th Generation (not included)
- $39.95 each
The PERFECT Food Pairings for an easy movie night meal that will please Dad’s hearty appetite!
Schwan’s 5 Cheese Flatbread Pizzas
- Enjoy restaurant quality flatbread pizza at home!
- A thin, crispy flatbread crust is topped with marinara sauce and the right blend of 5 cheeses - Mozzarella, provolone, parmesan, asiago and romano
- A great new appetizer for entertaining or a snack or two
- Each flatbread serves 2
- To purchase, click here!
Schwan’s Popcorn Chicken
- Finger-licking, tender chunks of all-white chicken breast meat is a family favorite
- We coat these in a savory seasoning, and then fully cook until crispy and golden
- We’ve got you covered – this entrée is ready for you to serve in a flash
- Get out the checkered tablecloth and the dipping sauces and serve with corn on the cob, bakes beans and coleslaw for family-picnic fun all year long.
- To purchase, click here!
Schwan’s Mini Corn Dogs
- Our blend of all beef and pork cocktail wieners are wrapped in a rich cornmeal batter and fried to a sweet and savory golden crisp
- One mouthwatering bite and you’ll remember the first time you enjoyed them, probably at the fair on a stick
- These bite-sized must-have minis are a classic snack
- Dip in ketchup, mustard or honey mustard.
- To purchase, click here!
Schwan’s Mini Donut (Ice Cream Sandwiches)
- Reminiscent of a state fair classic
- Mini donuts are now brought to the comfort of your home all year round!
- The included cinnamon-sugar packet allows you to shake up your donuts in that sweet sugary topping for hot, fresh mini donuts anytime.
- Simply microwave in under 1 minute and coat with cinnamon-sugar
- Perfect for snacks, dessert, or even breakfast!
- To purchase, click here!
- Slice in half, add ice cream and make an even tastier treat, a mini donut ice cream sandwich!
Schwan’s Sweet Cream Cheese Pretzel Poppers
- Enjoy an all-time American favorite now in a fun poppable size.
- These pretzel poppers are stuffed with sweet cream cheese filling and have a soft pretzel dough outside
- These low-fat, small bites make a delicious option anytime for a quick and healthy breakfast, snack or dessert!
- To purcase, click here!
ALL above items are available for purchase at www.schwans.com or by calling 1.888.724.9267
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Mr Mom – The Nester
I think he defers to Mom or his one best friend for anything deep and heartfelt and prefers to just have fun with people who enjoy the same activities and have the same sense of humor.
The PERFECT Entertaining Gifts and Tools for Mr. Mom:
- Make sure you don’t step into the battlefield unprepared, gear up with our unique camouflage apron and BBQ supplies vest
- Features a bottle opener, 2 enormous pockets to fit your BBQ weapons of choice, 4 sauce/condiment pockets, salt and pepper/spice pockets and a 6 beer/soda ammo bandoleer to make sure you stay locked and loaded at all time.
- With room to store everything, this camouflage apron makes for a perfect birthday or fathers day gift that will give him everything he needs to tip the battle between fire and man
- Made of 100% cotton and features a one size fits all adjustable strap (grilling tools are not included)
- Available for purchase at homewetbar.com for $29.95
- New Tabasco Buffalo Style Sauce is an easy and delicious way to add authentic Buffalo flavor to whatever you’re eating or cooking
- Tabasco Buffalo Style Sauce does much more than make great wings; its thickness and moderate heat level make it a great condiment as well, try it on pizza or stirred into party dips
- Our spice kits offer several flavorful, aromatic seasonings in small quantities – they are perfect for a summer house, vacation villa or small home kitchen
- The seasonings come in leak-proof, water resistant package with a patent-pending design: Long-lasting, BPA-free, recycled plastic pots screw together into a single, ultra-portable stick, each kit comes in a sturdy cardboard tube for extra protections, and the label offers a “key” to all the seasonings within
- All herbs and spices are 100% USDA-certified organic
- Mobile Foodie Survival Kit – $26.00 ($13.00 wholesale)
- Regional Essentials Kits – $20.00 ($10.00 wholesale)
Dyson Digital Slim – for the Dad who cleans up before, during and after the party, with rechargeable batteries, the Digital Slim goes wherever the party is
- The most powerful cordless, handheld vacuum cleaners
- Powered by the Dyson digital motor, the vacuum has anti-static carbon fiber brushes to remove the fine dust particles from hard floors.
- It’s a handheld vacuum that has a detachable, long-reach 26 inch lightweight aluminum wand that attaches directly to the machine to convert it from a handheld to a slim vacuum cleaner
- Dyson Digital Slim retails for $329.00
- Statistical Fact: Dad’s who cook and clean.. CLEAN UP more often in the bedroom!
The PERFECT food pairings for Mr Mom: a hassle-free meal made just for Dad – now that’s GOOD COOKING!
Schwan’s Fiesta Lime Shrimp and Vegetable Skewers
- Seasoned with just the right blend of citrus lime flavoring, these shrimp and vegetable skewers are ready for the grill.
- Perfectly grilled in minutes!
- To purchase, click here!
Schwan’s Turkey Mignon
- Turkey breast “steaks” are wrapped in hardwood-smoked bacon, which lends a hearty smoky-sweet flare.
- To purchase, click here!
Schwan’s Beef Sirloin Steak Tip for Kabobs
- Making steak tip kabobs is a fun, creative way to go beyond everyday burgers
- To purchase, click here!
Schwan’s Grilled Garlic Texas Toast
- Big, thick slices of French bread, loaded with buttery garlic, tasty herbs and full-flavor spices.
- The Perfect compliment to Dad’s grilled masterpieces
- To purchase, click here!
ALL above items are available for purchase at www.schwans.com or by calling 1.888.724.9267
The Perfect Father’s Day Recipes!
Mini Donut Ice Cream Sandwiches - For the X Men Dad
Ingredients:
- Schwans Mini Donuts
- Ice Cream, any kind
- Garnishes; candy sprinkles or miniature chocolate chips or chopped nuts or shredded coconut or chopped decorative candies
Method:
Cut donut in half like a bagel. Place small scoop of ice cream on half and press other half on top, pushing ice cream slightly out the sides. Roll the edges and the holes in the garnish/es of choice. EAT! OR wrap tightly and freeze.
Burbon-Lime Baste Recipe - For the Mr. Mom Dad
To be served with the Fiesta Lime Shrimp Skewers
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup of Bulleit Bourbon
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp ground white pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Method:
Juice of one Lime Mix all ingredients together and heat until brown sugar is dissolved. Let cool.
Rosemary Spiced Nuts - For the Mad Man Dad
Ingredients:
- Vegetable oil
- 3 cups whole roasted unsalted cashews
- 2 cups whole walnut halves
- 2 cups whole pecan halves
- 1/2 cup whole almonds
- 1⁄3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
- 2 teaspoons ground chipotle powder (or another spice, like ancho chili pepper or Spanish paprika)
- 4 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary leaves, divided
- Kosher salt
Method:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
- Brush a sheet pan generously with vegetable oil, or cover with parchment paper. In a large bowl, add the different kinds of nuts. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, the maple syrup, brown sugar, orange juice, and chipotle powder (or other spice) and mix well. Pour the mixture onto the nuts and toss well. Add the chopped rosemary and 2 teaspoons of salt and toss again.
- Spread the nuts in one layer on the baking pan. Roast the nuts for 25 minutes, stirring twice with a large spatula, until the nuts are glazed and golden brown. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with 2 more teaspoons of salt and the remaining 2 tablespoons of rosemary.
- Toss well and set aside at room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking as they cool. Taste for seasoning. Serve warm or cool completely and store in airtight containers at room temperature.
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Hamptons Table Top Tips
I was asked to interview with KDHamptons.com about my famous tabletop tips for entertaining in the Hamptons. On top of my tabletop tips, I share my favorite Hamptons hot spots, restaurants, caterers, florists and many more.
To view the article, click here!
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Summer Eco-taining Essentials
Memorial Day is THE party kick-off event of the summer entertaining season. Get the party started right with my Summer Entertaining Essentials for Summer entertaining on-the-go or on demand.
I will share my picks for this summer’s entertaining must-haves that will take you through every summer holiday and every day summer entertaining whenever they pop up. Also, I will ensure that you’ll be entertaining in style as he brings the latest fashions to your tabletop with his “colors of the season” entertaining décor tips… And throw away those paper plates, for good, because I have great tips on environmentally friendly, sustainable entertaining for your summer eco-taining arsenal.
https://vimeo.com/42851366
Setting the table for the perfect summer entertaining on-the-go or on demand is as simple as 1-2-3!
First, start with the perfect bag of party tricks! I believe that keeping all your Summer entertaining essentials in one convenient and easy accessible place is key. My go-to Summer tote is make of Land’s End canvas and is the perfect eco-friendly Summer carrying bag made by Lands’ End. It is water resistant with plenty of storage for all your essentials.
Beach towels do double duty as picnic blankets or tablecloths. Fun vintage inspired pattern help set the festive tone. This beach towel, provided by Lands’ End is the perfect Vintage pattern tying in the color palette from the entire table.
Second, throw away those paper plates, for good! and opt for Bamboo plates, silverware, and serving pieces. These items, made by Core Bamboo, are made from 100% organically grown bamboo. They are finished with natural oils to make them food safe and the lacquer comes from natural cashew trees. If and when you do throw them away, they are 100% biodegradable and compostable, leaving you guilt free!
Thirdly, bring the hottest fashion colors to your Summer party with re-usable and disposable napkins. MY DRAP tear-off napkins are the only 100% cotton napkins on a roll that come in a variety of colors and sizes that can be mixed and matched for a mega dose of fashion colors. Guests get the feel of cloth napkins in a disposable that are good for the environment, making you “look marvelous” (and feel marvelous too)! The best part about these napkins is they can be washed and reused up to six times!
The perfect compliment to the MY DRAP napkins is the Table Chameleon Napkin Rings, which I designed and produced and are the perfect summer entertaining essential! The Table Chameleon Napkin Rings are designed to bring a bit of character to your table in whatever way you please with a variety of colors and styles. Easy to use, the 3/4″ thick hand-cut acrylic rings are held together with magnets and feature inserts in four different designs – London, Ada, Saturn and Miami – in the colors, red blue, orange, and green. To switch out the inserts, there are four simple steps: slide, slip, snap and create! All you have to do is slide the pieces apart, slip in the insert, snap the two pieces together and create the look you want for your table! For more information or to purchase The Table Chameleon, go to my website!
To be the ULTIMATE Eco-tainer, make sure you party like a Local-vore!
A local-vore is a person dedicated to eating food grown and produced locally. There are a lot of reasons to eat locally grown and produced foods.
- Less resources (primarily fossil fuels) are expended packaging and easy transporting from Farm to Table.
- It supports the local economy – more money remains in our local community.
- It is healthier – processing and preservatives are less important since the food doesn’t have to travel so far.
- It is safer and thus local-vores are less susceptible to foodborn illnesses.
- It is more honest – honesty in terms of the food source and the growing/producing process.
- And last but not least – it tastes better!
Here are a few examples for shopping for like a local-vore that I incorporated into this segment by shopping right here in NYC:
Asparagus – NJ Native
Beef – PA Native
Mushrooms – NJ Native
Cheese – NY Native
Crab Cakes – NJ Native
Tomatoes – NJ Native
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