Posts

Showing posts from 2013

Foodie Friday: Christmas Dinner Menu

Jingle Bells and Santa is on his way, and you must deliver on Christmas Dinner. What to do? We came up with a great menu Salad: Mixed Greens with Gravlax Salmon with a simple chive vinaigrette Main Course: Roasted Goose w/ Cherry and Cranberry Port Wine Reduction Sides: Wild Rice Pilaf Green Bean Almondine Dessert: Bread Pudding with a Brandy Caramel Sauce Beverages: Lemon Water for the kids Champagne for the adults I know this a very Traditional European Menu, but it is one that you will truly enjoy. I could have done Crown Roast and Yorkshire Pudding, but that is 18th Century Christmas.

Battle of the Boxes

 There's a subscription box for everything, so we did some investigation. Nature Box, This box is for the healthy conscious or someone seeking to try a new lifestyle product. For 19.99 a month you get 5 full size snacks to feed a family of four. When I ordered I got Pistachio Power Clusters--My mom who is 74 ate all of them. Cherry Berry Bonaza was excellent dried fruits, especially on top of plain Greek yogurt in the AM, wonderful. Masa Chips were great with hummus. Vanilla Macaroon Granola was excellent as a cereal. Lastly, the Roasted Kettle Kernels, well again Mom ate these.... So for the price each month and the quality of the products and they are healthy and tasty that my elderly mother who doesn't like "health food" will eat it, this box gets a high 9 Glossy Box: This box is suppose to have high end exclusive beauty products for 21.99 a month. Sorry, it didn't make the grade I was expecting some face oil for the winter months or maybe some dee

Foodie Friday: Holiday Cocktail Party Menu

Cocktail Party Menu Mini- Empandas Baked Potato Pancakes Tandoori Chicken in Lettuce Cups Grilled Pita Cocktail: Champagne Punch You and your boyfriend decide to have a holiday party of some sort, but BBQ wings and pigs in the blanket is very sports bar and not fitting for someone who lives on Central Park West. Rule if you are having 8 guests or 3 couples then have 24 servings or 3 portions of food per person. Recipes: Mini Empandas: 2 lbs.  Italian Sausage Hot and Sweet out of the casing 1 large onion diced 2 cloves of garlic 1 bell pepper 4 packages of pre-made pastry dough 1/4 cup of raisins Saute all the veggies in a skillet with olive oil, until translucent, add sausage out of casing into pan with veggies, until sausage is thoroughly cooked. Pastry Dough--Make sure it is at room temperature for ease of handling. Cut into 24 triangles When filling is cooled then take a teaspoon of filling and fill with one side of mixture. Seal with your fork. Bake un

Gifts Overview: Chocolate, Scarfs, Food,Headbands, etc.

Image
Here's our Gift Bag: For the Health Conscious Our Favorite Health Food Thanks Nature Box! Sea Salt Caramels and Delicious Toffee   Scarves, Headbands think it's Missoni? NOT!! Enjoy all of my favorites!!!

Gift List: For the Foodie

Everyone wants to be the next Food Network Star, but some people need help! Here our list: Cooking Classes at: Sur La Table or William and Sonoma Trip to the NY or CA: Culinary Institute of America where they have bootcamps for foodies. Books: The Joy of Cooking The French Chef by Julia Child DVD Collection: Julia Child or the Galloping Gourmet Cheers to the Foodie on your list, they would love and appreciate these gifts!

Gift List: Book Lover

Yes there are people like myself, who would greatly appreciate these gifts. NYPL: Membership to the Young Lions or Patrons Group of the New York Public Library. They have great tributes to new and established authors and every spring the Young Lions group host an amazing gala which honors an upcoming literary notable. Collection of Someone's Favorite's Childhood Books: Dr. Seuess Where the Wild Things Are The Wonderful Wizard of Oz written in 1900 by Frank Baum Sheldon Silver books Membership to Barnes and Noble: Free Shipping on all books Guaranteed discounts on all books Special members sale. Private Tour of the New York Public Library: You know where Carrie Bradshaw was suppose to get married... The architecture of this building is amazing and every writer, I know loves spending time in the Rose Room. Cheers to the wonderful gifts for the book lovers in you!

Gift List: Home Decor: Vases

Again we scoured Manhattan and to find one of kind gifts that you can give your boyfriend's mother, mother in law and his grandmother. 1. Fun: If they have a sense of humor, we found a Tea Set from Henri Bendel's to be great with the classic brown and white stripes, add in some organic peppermint tea from Harney and Sons you have a wonderful gift. 2. MacKenzie and Childs: Classic Black and White Checkered Vase with the high glossy finish is an amazing gift. It is a gift where once you see it you immediately knew where it came from and with red roses it makes an awesome centerpiece. 3. Bacarat: This is worth making an appointment at B&G, they have an amazing staff! Anyone who gets this world class piece of art is someone awesome! 4. Waterford- Lismore Collection When the light hits certain angles of these champagne flutes or vases, it is the equivalent of diamond's sparkling. *Fun Fact: Lismore crystal was used in the original film, Breakfast at Tiffany'

Foodie Friday: Churro Inspired Cupcakes

You have been asked to bring dessert to the latest holiday gathering, which kids will be there so here's our recipe. Churro Inspired Cupcakes 1. Box of Duncan Hines Butter Cake Mix 2. 3 Tablespoon of Sugar 3. 3 Tablespoon of Cinnamon 4.  1 Jar of Dulce de Leche -- Caramel Sauce Mix the Cake Batter as directed by the box 1. When cupcakes are ready to be put in the oven, then sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of the cinnamon sugar mixture on each of the cupcake. 2. Bake as directed until a knife comes out clean in the center of the cupcakes. 3. Cool cupcakes for 20 min. 4. Take the cupcakes and frost them with the caramel sauce 5. Lightly sprinkle the cinnamon mixture on top of the cupcakes. The smell of cinnamon will give your home a wonderful aroma! Also, with children and food allergies this was the safest kid friendly dessert and all kids love cinnamon sugar! Cheers to being the star of the party with the child friendly dessert!

Gift List for the Hostess: Scents

We all are invited to various home gatherings, here is a comprehensive list of all the scents and what they mean... 1. Diptiyque- You are the best thing in the world and you are magnificent--The new Orange Indian candle is amazing! 2. Nest Fragrances- You mean so much to me-- They have a new Apres Ski Candle, amazing! 3. Jo Malone/Tory Burch--You are still pretty amazing! 4. Voluptusa- You are cool, I am glad to have you as a buddy. 5. Archipelago-You are interesting 6. Bath and Body Works--The jury is out with you.. Cheers to lightening up someone's day with these great scents!!

Foodie Friday: Chicken Stew--Gusiada

So we are taking a break from the holiday over stuff, if you live in colder climate then you want a rich, warming stew. In Latin America they call stew--Guisada Chicken Stew/Guisada: 1 whole chicken cut up 1 jar of Tomato Sofrito by Goya 2 Bell Peppers 1 Onion 3 Cloves of Garlic 2 Potato's Diced 1 package of peas 1 Tablespoon of Canola Oil Marinade chicken overnight with the Goya Tomato based Sofrito, and the three cloves of garlic. In a heavy cast iron pot, add oil on medium heat, when the oil is warm, then add the veggies until translucent, then add chicken and coat with the veggies add 1 cup of water and simmer on a low heat until chicken is thoroughly cooked, almost falling off the bone. Serve Hot in bowls, with a lemon spritzer and one piece of bread. Cheers to a hearty stew!

Gifts for Everyone for Under $25.00

Yup!! You read the title right gifts for everyone for under $25.00 You shouldn't dread opening your credit card statements in Dec. then thinking about what you shouldn't have bought. We scoured the net and did some pricing in the Mall here's what we found: Teen Girls: Sephora: Lace Glitter Head Bands 3 for $5.00 Chloe Perfume two mini bottles for 15.00 HSN: Two OPI Nail Polishes with the glitter bands for $15.00 Target: Dry Erase Board of ONE DIRECTION for $3.00 Burt's Bees Lip Balm Packet of 2 for $9.00 Kohl's Rosetti Crossbody Handbags for $15.00 all colors pewter and purple are my favorite colors!! Teen Boys: Young Boys: Carmex Lip Balm and Pocket Size Hand Lotion-- Duane Read $7.50 Microfiber Sheets for their electronics: $10.00 Gift Card for Game Night at Dave and Busters for $25.00 Sports Hat of Favorite Team from Sport Authority: $20.00 Young Adults: College Age til 26 1. Calendars: Men with Cats--Target: 3.00 2. Calendars: Wizard

Affordable Glam

We read in the paper about 20's being stopped at Barney's for buying expensive items, then earlier this year the movie the Bling Ring came out, about teens and 20's something's stealing expensive things from Paris Hilton's home. However, we all want and deserve nice trendy things, but some things are really nice and affordable without having to be stopped by the police or committing grand larceny. This segment is devoted to "Affordable Glam" We scoured the Internet for all our findings: Military style is all the rage right now here's our find: Military Style Dress in Green with a lace collar where? Simply Vera Wang at Kohls.com  price 29.99 go to retailmenot.com for additional codes for savings. Jeans: Skinny Jeans and Boot Cuts aren't going anywhere as well. Faded Glory Jeans at walmart.com  are 24.95 for two pairs Handbags: Again Kohl's came on top! Apt. 9 bag for 24.00 silver tone looks like a 3.1. Phillip Lam Nine West H

Foodie Friday: Thanksgiving Recipes

My favorite time of the year has arrived!! We are dusting off grandma recipes and making traditional Thanksgiving dinner. Chestnut Stuffing: 2 Jars of Steamed Chestnuts from williamsonoma.com . 2 large onion 2 stalks of celery 2 bunch of parsley 2 bell peppers 2 rolls of turkey breakfast sausage 2 package of seasoned bread crumbs, I love Pepperidge Farms. In a sauté pan coat the pan with Olive Oil, add onions, celery, parsley, bell peppers, until the veggies are translucent, then add the turkey breakfast sausage--cook until all the pink is thoroughly gone, in the oven roast chestnuts for 25 min. to enhance, flavor. After 25 min roasting, put in the blending for a coarse chop, then add to the meat and veggie mix, then stir in bread crumbs until everything is coated. Bake in a casserole dish separate from the turkey, until everything is done. Cranberry Sauce: 1 Jar Cranberry and Orange Sauce at williamsonoma.com 2 bags of fresh cranberries In a saucepan pour 1 Ja

Gift Giving Guide: Business Associates

We are now in the Holiday Gift Giving Season. Here is a helpful guide for giving people who have a made a difference in your business: Nice elegant business gifts under $100.00 Food: Chocolate -- Who doesn't love it? 1. Bourbon Balls from www.crateandbarrel.com  is a fun, whimsical and delicious way to say "thank you to your business associates, they cost 9.95 and you can order 3 for the entire office without breaking the bank. 2. Sea Salt Caramels again from www.crateandbarrel.com  they are so good if you want to blow your entire diet for the year, then this is the item. Price check: 24.95 so you can buy two boxes for $50.00 for an entire office. 3. Toffee--Plenty of toffee makers now, no don't go to drug store and buy Werther's Original, not cool, but the best toffee in town is www.toffeebox.com 2 lbs. gift box in two flavors for $52.00, my favorite flavors are: Milk Chocolate Pecan and Dark Chocolate. 4. KIND BARS-- KINDS bars are great! They have a

Things Google Won't Tell You About Your Next Date

Google is great for letting us know if someone has ever been arrested and where they worked or if they have been in a tabloid. However these are things that Google won't tell you: 1. How Cheap Is Your Date: If your date has a good job and on the first date is using a voucher and still into the second is racking up those points on his American Express so he can score Knicks tickets, chances are the relationship is not going to last. 2. If He Has/Had An STD: No website can legally publish this information, but before you love or even kiss, if he has any noticeable "fever blisters" or "skin tags" or needs to "pick up" something from the drugstore on a biweekly basis, you really need to think twice about this dude. 3. How He Treats the Wait Staff and Door Men: Chances are if your guy throws tantrums when the waitress doesn't get his order right, or doesn't leave a tip, and can't say Good Evening to the Door Men in his building, he ha

TV Review: Girl Code

Normally, I don't watch television, however while waiting for my clothes to dry, the television was on MTV. Girl Code on MTV is a panel of your big sisters and big brothers who really care about you, and really tell you how life is about sex, pregnancy, and dating. Is it vulgar? Nope not all, it is really one of those shows where a young person can relate to and a mature woman can laugh at because at one point we did or thought something dumb. Birth Control A couple of things that really stood out was when you and your boyfriend are actually an item, you need to demand that he wears a condom before sex! The guy on the panel explained it that men equate condom as wearing a three piece suit in a shower and 9 out of 10 men won't wear one unless asked. Pregnancy Scare: All the panelists agree that a woman at one point of her life has had a pregnancy scare, which forces them to really evaluate the relationship that they are in, would they really want to be connected to thi

How to Lighten Up Thanksgiving Dinner

Sure, everyone thinks that Thanksgiving is a license for them to over indulge; however you can by making the dishes you love a bit lighter. Brines: Everyone is brining a turkey, but brining is full of salt especially if you do it for more than a two days you really shouldn't serve it to anyone. Here's a helpful tip buy a Kosher turkey that already has been salted without the excessiveness of a brine. Also, when you get your turkey, use herbs such as rosemary, sage, garlic, parsley and onion in olive oil blend so it makes a paste and slather over the turkey. Excellent flavorful yet without 1/3 of the salt of a brine. Pies: Pies have tons of sugar! Instead of milk and heavy cream swap out for almond milk, if there are nut allergies then swap for a Vanilla Rice Dream, great tasting and flavorful. Spices, the aroma of nutmeg, vanilla, clove and cinnamon, all together gives the palate a sense of sweetness, use these spices instead of excess sugar. Sugar, use 100 percent Agav

Nov. Beauty Finds

We are constantly on the prowl for great beauty finds, especially with Thanksgiving and all the major holidays around the corner. We first start with our mani- review: Revlon: Smoldering is the amazing nail color that is silver, pinkish, it's called smoldering and we love it because it can take a person from day to night easily and if you put and glitter overcoat on it looks like high end nail art, check out this find at drugstores near you. Nail color lasted one week without retouching. Wet n Wild Nail Color: I know this is every girl's first nail polish, but what caught our eye was the new line dedicated to young professionals. This line is called glass glaze and with two coats and no top coat everyone thought I had a professional manicure. Colors for this season we recommend are the deep wine, blue green, and coral. Coral? Coral goes great with winter white ladies! SpaRitual: This nail color is 100 vegan free and does not smell like harsh chemicals, FFF VIP Box fe

MUST HAVE for Stress Relief!

Holidays can be very stressful, and we feel it throughout our bodies in our shoulder and backs. Here are two products that are a MUST HAVE for the Holidays: 1. CONAIR Shoulder and Back Massager: You do need Double A batteries and it can be purchased at Target. After you put the batteries in, turn flip the switch and it feels as though 10 people are massaging your back and shoulders. This is such an incredible feeling. Let's face it your man's hand get tired and you can't run to spa everyday; however this comes in a the number one product. After Black Friday and running around prepping for Thanksgiving, your feet will take a beating. 2. CONAIR Heated Footbath: Again, you can purchase it from Target, and fill it up with warm water and with the shoulder and back massager you can close your eyes and relax for 20 min. For an added special touch you can put lavender oil for relaxation. Wonderful! Cheers to a wonderful and relaxing Holiday Season!

Spa Week Wants Everyone Looking GOOD!

Hey Positive Peeps! Guys and Gals our friends at Spa Week want YOU looking your best for Thanksgiving and for you to get ahead on your Black Friday Shopping from NOW!!! So book a session at your favorite spa over 8,000 nationwide and get 15% off when you buy a gift card for someone else. So when you go to http://spaweek.7eer.net/c/97/92429/1991  this link specifically and enter SPAGIFT as the promo code when you buy a gift card for your mom, boyfriend, mother-in-law, sister, aunt, you will get the 15% off. Thanks again to SPAWEEK for allowing everyone to get ahead in terms of Holiday Shopping. Cheers to looking GOOD!

Things NOT to eat During Thanksgiving

Everyone goes on a juice fast before Thanksgiving, then gorges themselves at Thanksgiving, then January 1, goes on a diet. Anyway here are something that you shouldn't eat during the holidays to avoid massive weight gain: 1. Pecan Pie- Tempting, delightful, yet one slice has a whopping 1200 calories. PASS 1a. Coconut Custard Pie -- don't even LOOK at it! 2. Sweet Potato Casserole- with the marshmallows on top again way over the 1000 calorie mark 3. Stuffing with pork sausage--terrible not only does it have the bread but the fat from the sausage coating the bread is horrible. 4. Green Bean Casserole-- again with heavy cream and the fried onions on top totally a diet disaster. Rule of thumb if it is cream based or loaded with salt and sugar, then pass!!! Cheers to a slimming Thanksgiving!

Your First Thanksgiving at Your Significant Others House

Great you found your soul mate and now he wants to bring you home for Thanksgiving, for family approval. Here are some tips to get you through the day: 1. Follow the rules of the hostess: Ask to help politely, but don't expect to carve the turkey and pass out dessert. 2. Get a gift for the family, then for his mother: Family gift store bought pie-- Little Pie Company is my fave. Mother a gift --vases always go over well, something small from Waterford or Spode 3. Conversation is easy breezy! don't tell them anything negative about yourself i.e. overcoming an eating disorder, etc. Don't engage in any political, social issue or business matters. 4. Eat a hearty meal before your boyfriend picks you up! His parents can be the worse cooks or you just don't eat what they serve. 5. Dress Conservatively!!! Think Lilly Pulitzer circa 1972, flare dress with a cardigan and pearls. NO  Nail Art!! 6. Leave when your boyfriend gives you the cue, even if you engrossed

Great Pie Crust

It is Fall Pie Season and we all want to know the secret to a great crust. When, I was making pumpkin pie and yes I use fresh pumpkins! Anyway, I bought two generic pie crusts, that I noticed I some separation issues. Solution? Granola Bars... I just bought a box of granola bars and put them through the blender along with a stick of cold butter to form a paste. Spread the granola paste on the bottom of pie to reinforce the bottom and you have the most amazing and flavorful pie crust. Everyone wanted to know the secret to such a great crust. So when you are making your fall pies use the granola paste on the bottom and enjoy the culinary delight. Additional Secret: Love Apple Crisp, but don't have time to make the topping yourself? Solution: Take a couple of packets of instant Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal, one stick of cold butter, instantly you have the best crumble topping for your apple crisp. Cheers to enjoying Fall Pie Season!!

Beauty Spot: Julep Polymer Top Coat

All of the beauty blogging world has heard about the Julep Nail Polish company. The famous Maven Boxes, so when I received a sample of their; Polymer Top Coat I was elated because I heard so many good things about the product. Well, holiday events are coming up and we can't afford to run into our nail salon every other day for a retouch, but we can use Julep Polymer Top Coat and get the most for our money. This is a really great product and can be used with any nail polish. So for this month's beauty spot, please go to julep.com

Before the GUESTS Arrive!!!

Nov. and Dec. this when we have all of our family members over. Good times for everyone and all around! Think again!! Last year I shared with you that a distant relative came over for Thanksgiving one year, just to shop and that was it and all that the family planned was insignificant. Anyway, before you get your feelings hurt and spend money you can't get back, when someone asks you if they can visit. Sit down with your hubby and make a list of what we will and will not tolerate in our house.: For example, we understand that you are madly in love, but this isn't Motel 6, so please refrain from having sex in our home. From occasion we enjoy a glass of wine with our meal, however according to Federal Law we can't allow minors under the age of 21 to drink in our home. We want you to enjoy yourself and our home, however certain rooms are off limits- Your Bedroom. We want to you to enjoy the nightlife this town has to offer, please call us at 1 am to let us know

DEDICATED: Exhale Spa Giveaway

Hello Readers! Our generous partners at Exhale Spa in New York City, Meatpacking District, has donated a 5 class gift certificate for one of our readers, who can give us the most innovative way to loose weight BEFORE the Thanksgiving Holiday. Our contest begins NOW and ends until Monday at 12pm. Good Luck Positive Peeps! Your Friends at Positive Expert and Exhale Spa

FFF VIP BOX: Our Favorite/Fab/ Favorite

Why we love FFF VIP Box! It's box season and everyone, I am certain has gotten boxes from other subscription companies, but we got our FFF VIP Box and this is why we love it: 1. Gorjana Scarf: It is perfect for the fall and winter months it's a neutral gray with a pop of neon pink, to keep you smiling. 2. Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Cleansing Foam: If anyone has had the Bliss Triple Oxygen Facial this comes in at a close second. Time to get in Shape before the Holidays so we have: Barre 3 Standing Slim DVD and online program, members also get a one -month promo code to access over 100 barre3 online workouts. 4. Starlooks 5 Shade Shadow Palettes: This eye make up is great because the combos contain matte, sparkle and satin shadows that create wonderful day to night looks! 5. Popcorn! Orville Redenbacher Popcorn: Great for when you have the case of the munchies, this is a 100 percent whole grain, gluten-free popcorn, which is well worth buying the real

Book Report: Jonathan Adler: My Prescription for Anti- Depressive Living

AOL had a video series of innovators and Jonathan Adler was featured, he is noted for his distinct, classy, yet whimsical take on design. I was so impressed with the video series that I decided to purchase one of his books. Jonathan's book: My Prescription for Anti- Depressive Living is one of the best Modern Day books on design that I have seen in years! He not only gives you great ways to design and decorate any room, but it is part inspirational as well. Adler tells of how he decided to ditch a coveted junior talent agent position, to make pottery non-stop for three years!! Fast forward today he is the most sought out after designer having key retail stores in major markets and such a zest for life. As a former art history major I know Jonathan will be ranked as the designer of the who infused the world with laughter in a tasteful way. Please pick up this book, this is a must for your coffee table or if you are doing any room in home. He inspired me to create a R

This Week in Fashion and Beauty

OK, Fashionistas and Beautyophiles here's what happening in this world. 1. FIT - School for Continuing Education It is GREAT to be an awesome designer but you have to have the business/ FINANCE  background to go with your great clothing line. FIT has several classes from Managing Cash Flow to Day to Day Accounting to Operations. 2. CEW- Cosmetic Executive Women The Entry Deadeline for Eco Beauty Awards are Oct. 30, 2013, Late Entry Deadline: Nov. 22, 2013. 3. Register for FBA360 courses 4 week online courses, from starting a fashion line to Taking your label to the next level, these courses are taught by veterans. Cheers to all our fashionista's and Beauty-o-philes!

Beauty Spot: Garnier Face Mask

This week, we switched it up a bit regarding, beauty products. We heard a lot about Garnier Face Mask, so we had to try it out! Garnier Face Mask, for 6 sheets it costs about 14.95, put it on as you would any face mask for ten min. I did feel a tingling sensation; however it was nothing unbearable. After 10 min. my skin, looked and felt great! I tried it again for three days straight as directed, and my skin was a noticeable radiant, smoothe, and brighter. Someone asked if I can been on vacation, nope and I smiled :) So, for Garnier is our go to product for facial masks under $25.00. You can get Garnier at any major retailer including Wal-Mart! Cheers to beautiful skin thanks to Garnier!

Organization = Less Stress

Ever wake up in the morning and spend a great amount of time figuring out what to wear? Did you spend an hour sorting your dirty laundry from lights, darks, etc. Here are some time saving techniques that will help you organize which is less stress for YOU. 1. This is true weather comes on at exactly 11:15-7pm on your local station, if you need to be in bed before 11:00pm, then there is the National Weather Service online, which is extremely accurate. 2.Outfits for the Next Day:  Now, that you got the weather, you can plan and coordinate your outfits for the week or just the next day. Saves you a lot of stress trying to figure what in the shower what to wear, and you will always be on time when it comes to work. 3. Inventory:  I always do inventory when I see things get to mid point of use, in terms of laundry detergent, body wash, food staples, etc. some online places will actually check, if this is an item for reordering. 4. Cooking:  Your kids or hubby wants those famo

From Our Friends at Spa Week

Our Friends at Spa Week have graciously given the following to the Positivexpert followers: Free $10 eGiftCard with min. $50.00 purchase Please use this link http://spaweek.7eer.net/c/65297/92429/1991  there are thousands of great spas to choose from, youcan get mani/pedi's, messages, and a host of other services, nationwide. Cheers to being beautiful!

This Week in Fashion's Events

We heard all of your comments, more fashion, more events... The week ending in Oct. 25 here are the following fashion related events 1. Giorgio Armani Special Exhibition of Clothing, Accessories and Jewlery Friday, Oct. 25- Sunday,Oct. 27 10 am - 8:00pm SuperPier @Hudson River Park 2. Tory Burch Private Online Sale Up to70 percent off. 3. Alex and Ani our fav in positive jewlery- online exculsive 4. Simply Stylist New York 20013 Sunday, Oct. 27, 2013 10 am to 6:00pm The Park Central Hotel 870 7th Avenue New York, NY 10019 info@simplystylist.org 5. Boot Camp for Digital Marketing Start Ups (Not for Fashion ONLY) Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2013 1:00pm - 8:00pm Town Hall Conference Center 18th Floor 3 Columbus Circle Between 57& 58 th Streets Cheers to our Fashionistas and those interested in design careers!

Book Report: Dear Preston

We still have a few more months in the year to accomplish your business goals. If starting a business was one of them this book comes highly recommended. Dear Preston is written none other than the special event guru Preston Bailey. When Oprah had her daytime show, he did her events, his clients are a whose who in the industry. But, you aren't opening up a catering, event planning, or creative business. So, even if you are opening up a fashion, tech, or bio- tech business this book, is a must read. He addresses: 1. Giving to get ahead. 2. Dealing with unethical "potential customers" 3. Really focusing on your brand. Who you are and how that is reflected in your business. 4. Dealing with your envy--seeing others get ahead--- we all have been on that rodeo. 5. Listening to your customer 6. Providing excellent customer service!!! Sadly most businesses fail because of poor customer service these days. So, if you are ready to make a serious commitment to those

How to Eliminate Choices

We live in a society where we have millions of choices and options for everything. But what do you do when you have an "abundance?" A few weeks ago, I was faced with a lot of  "opportunities," on the surface things it seemed as though everything was going "as planned." But, I was getting some warning signals. 1. Feeling overwhelmed is never a good sign especially if it is an "opportunity." 2. Evaluate all the pros and cons of a situation. 3. If you have to make an instant decision on something, it is never a good opportunity. 4. Mediate, pray, go within, but spend some quiet time with yourself, be as honest as possible and ask yourself, what do I really believe and how is this going to improve the quality of my life. 5. When you define your core--your true heart's desire, you will begin to eliminate the wrong choices instantly! 6. The power of focus many successful people, didn't start out doing ten things at once, they fo

Fall Take on Bacon and Eggs

Fall is here and you want that something special for brunch, what do you? Bacon and Eggs Instead of scrambled and sunny side up try deviled eggs, yes, Deviled Eggs for breakfast! Deviled Eggs Recipe: 1. 4 Hard Boiled Eggs 2. Curry Powder 3. Dried Tarragon 4. Greek Yogurt 5. Sweet Relish 6. Turmeric- for natural coloring Cut half the hard boiled eggs put the yolks into a bowl with curry powder, dried tarragon, Greek yogurt and sweet relish, turmeric is great because it adds the yellow pop to the eggs. Fill the egg whites with the mixture and chill. Bacon: William- Sonoma has bacon steak- which is high quality bacon that can be served as an entrée, broil the bacon steak the last five minutes of broiling then add maple syrup and brown sugar, bake again for another 2 min. Serve hot with the deviled eggs and hot almond milk. Cheers to different take on Bacon and Eggs!

Home Goods Alert: Mason Jars

Mason Jars were the big thing in grandma's day, canning fruits and vegetables from the summer harvest. However, Mason Jars have taken on a life of its own. So what can you do with a Mason Jar? 1.Floral Centerpieces:  Spray paint/ paint it in seasonal colors and create mini seasonal floral arrangements, great for Holiday Entertaining. 2. Baking Fall Fruit Crisps: Take a Mason Jar and put the same fruit filling you would a pie and add an oatmeal crumble on top, bake excellent!! Excellent Book on Cooking Desserts: In these Jars at Crate and Barrel. 3. Toy/ Crayon Jars: Take the largest Mason Jar out, and put your kids small toys and crayons and other school supplies. It makes the whole room look great and tidy and your kids will get a kick out it as well. 4. Nail Polish Containers: Especially, if you have nail polish collection like myself, these jars come in handy, it is great for teens who have a collection as well. 5. Game Night: Great for serving beverages! Ch

August in October

The cold has settled in and you and your significant other can't wait to go on your Winter V-Cay but that is in January. Make your own day at the tropics: 1. Scents and atmosphere: Moss and Mint Candles from Nest Fragrances 2. Take your summer bathing suits out of storage- have a great bubble bath and pretend you are in St. John or the Bahamas. 3. Meals: Go to the Grocery the night before and under the Latin Section, pick out frozen tropical foods, and frozen tropical fruits for that fruity adult beverage. 4. Rum it UP! Add either Captain Morgan's Spiced Rum or Malibu Coconut Rum to your frozen fruity drinks. 5. Playlist Play salsa, reggae, and calypso to have your own private dance party. This would have you and yours living it up and have just enough fun to get you through to you Winter Va-Cay. Cheers to August in October!

Sweet Sixteen Guide

How do you cope when your child asks you for a Party, that costs more than 5 weddings? As we do in business manage "expectations." 1. Tell your child that if they would like to go on vacations, have extra curricula activities, live in a home, and eat then they you and her father is not going have to provide them with that kind of party, because it would take up all of that budget. 2. Set a limit for your children in terms of invitations. If your home can only accommodate 10- 20 teens comfortably, tell them to think hard about their favorite friends--who you haven't bullied them, who they are not trying to buy friendships from, and who you and husband believe after the party is over would still be her/his friend. They would come back with a realistic guest list of about 5-10 friends. 3. When you approve of the guest list, then you can pick out nice invitations-- Papyrus, Vista Print have excellent invitations for under $35.00 for 20 invites. 4. Have them selec

Job Hunting Tips

Everyone says the economy is slow and people aren't hiring, this maybe true, but here are some ways we found that could help. 1. Get rid of any signs of desperation. I know your credit cards are past due, your spouse and extended family are telling you are a slouch, you are libel to take the first thing that comes your way, only to find out it is the worse thing. 2. Mentor a small business owner. If you are over 35 you have more skills that you know, go to your local college or community college, or business incubator program and ask to be a mentor to a start-up. This is a great way to have a work routine, get back to a professional setting, and sharpen your skills in the process. Treat this as a job and more than likely the start-up or the business host will give you a job. 3. Get up, get dressed and go out with people who are going to work and come back home during rush hour. Even if you do this 3 days a week, you are conditioning your mind to rigors of work day, don'

How to Love An Aging Parent

Many Americans view age as a big TABOO, we say now 50 is the new 30? Given that how do you love a parent who is aging? 1. Most of the elderly when they begin to attend their friends funeral, innately become scared of dying, so they cling on to their independence. 2. Let them do as much as they can physically do with their doctor's consent. 3. Include them in as many activities as possible, always make them the center of attention. 4. Take your kids to see them and let your children allow them to tell "their" stories. 5. Even if they have dietary restrictions, ease them into it, instead of hamburgers try turkey burgers or Moringstar excellent taste and value and don't tell them what it is or they will be immediately turned off. 6. If they live at home physically, check on them everyday, "I am on my way home from work." This way you can assess their living arrangements, in an informal way--you can take out garbage easily, check the fridge when t

It's Party Time: Halloween Savings for Everyone

  As an event planner the average American will spend around 300.00 for an in- house Halloween party, that price is very steep, however we will   give you a guide to plan the perfect party for 8 children age range from 5- teens that would fit any budget. We were able to plan, and shop for a party of 8 children and 4 adults for under half the cost of one party. Before You Go Shopping!   Assess your pantry what staples do you have that you don’t need to buy, such as eggs, cooking oil, ketchup, BBQ Sauce, muffin tins and cookie sheets. Now that you done the initial check create a menu, children are developing taste buds so think simple. Also, during the fall and winter months, prices on premade frozen pizza, chicken tenders and wings tend to be priced at their highest because of game nights, with that in mind we decided to make everything! This cut our food bill down to 75 percent. Also, please keep in mind our menu is as allergen free as possible, in term of nuts and our pepperoni

Treats for YOUR MAN!

Last month we looked at taking care of ourselves and truly honoring who we are as women. However, if you are blessed to have a soul mate, then you should treat him as well. Here are a few items that would make him smile: 1. Bespoke Post Box: He is tired of you getting your MUST HAVE Boxes, so the men at Bespoke Post, curates wonderful boxes that the man in your life will love. 2. Gift Certificate to the Art of Shaving: The Art of Shaving are the masters of the clean old fashion shave with hot towels and the whole nine. 3. Burlesque Show: You can create for him a private burlesque show, that will not be filmed or be placed on twitter, etc. This way after your performance he can take the pasties off himself! 4. If your guy is into sports then, a free weekend where he can watch all the sports uninterrupted. 5. A free day of not counting calories and treat him to a "Mad Men" meal of a porterhouse steak, mashed potato's, green beans, a dirty Martini, and Appl