Capers Catering

Savory Short Plates

2012-03-07T04:19:00.005-08:00

donna hay

In addition to a variety of passed hors d'oeuvres during cocktail hour, consider adding a few stations of short plates. Short plates are miniaturized dishes, and in addition to being tremendously cute, they are quite filling too.

Above are summer spiced shrimp served in light blue votive candle holders. Short plates are typically served in a selection of small and creative vessels, such as egg cups, petite skillets, demitasse cups, shot glasses and more.

donna hay

Here are pictured short ribs served in an espresso cup.

Short plates are also a terrific conversation starter. Pick your favorite food, and let your caterer create a miniature version for you and your guests.

southern living magazine

food and wine magazine

Buccan, Palm Beach

Something Old

2012-03-06T03:58:00.002-08:00

weddingbells

Cameos are such a chic way to add something old to your wedding.

Recently designers are been adding new cameo inspired jewelry to their lines. If you are interested in newer pieces, check out Tom Binns designs. And, if you are interested in vintage - shop flea markets, antique shops, ebay and etsy.

sweetlittlethrill

imbueyouido

blovedweddings

Tom Binns

smallthingsiced

Asparagus Love

2012-03-05T06:00:00.001-08:00

snixykitchen.wordpress

With daylight savings beginning next Sunday, and I will be officially ready to celebrate spring. While the winter has been mild in New England, I think we are all ready for longer days, asparagus, morel mushrooms, tulips, daffodils, and green grass.

When I am in possession of my first bunch of fresh asparagus, I purchase a lovely baguette, sliced it on the bias, slather each slice with EVOO, sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt and cracked pepper, and toast slices in a 375 degree oven until lightly browned, turning to cook evenly.

I then place an 8 ounce log of local goat cheese in a bowl, add 2 tablespoons of EVOO, the zest from 1 lemon, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoons of fresh thyme, 2 teaspoon of flat Italian parsley (chopped), and sea salt and pepper to taste.

Saute 2 minced shallots in butter until golden and blanch asparagus in salted water. Slice blanched asparagus in 3" pieces.

Assemble crostini by slathering toasted baguette slices with herbed goat cheese, and topping with asparagus and shallots. This is perfect with a crisp Prosecco!

Try these asparagus recipes below. They are wonderful for spring dining.

taste.com

Tuna, Lemon and Asparagus Pasta from Taste.com.au

pinchofyum.com

Asparagus Quesadilla Lasagna from Pinch of Yum

sarah shatz

Absurdly Addictive Asparagus from Food52.com

Castle Hill Sustainable Seaside Wedding Show

2012-03-02T08:52:00.003-08:00

Come join Capers Catering at the Trustees of Reservations
3rd Annual Sustainable Seaside Wedding Show at
Castle Hill on The Crane Estate
Sunday, April 22nd, 2012 ~ Earth Day
12:00pm-3:00pm

Castle Hill on The Crane Estate is located at 290 Argilla Road in Ipswich, MA. For directions and or more information, please visit www.craneestate.org or call 978-356-4351 ext. 4025.

Purchase tickets at www.craneestate.org to be eligible for the GRAND PRIZE drawing: two glorious nights at The Inn at Castle Hill on The Crane Estate (over $900 value) www.theinnatcastlehill.com. Tickets: $5 for Trustees members; $10 for non-members; and $15 at the door.

Tent Inside!

2012-03-01T11:00:00.003-08:00

Habitually Chic

Lucky Heather Clawson of Habitually Chic posted a wonderful party that she went to in NYC this week.

Just when I was feeling a little bit jaded with the "nothing new" blues, here is a fabo tent inside of someones dining room. The guests are seated at low tables with pillows. I can't wait to try this idea soon.

Check out Heather's post, it really was a pretty party.

Leap Year Cocktail

2012-02-29T11:33:00.006-08:00

valleyandcolifestyle.com

This evening we are catering a Leap Year party, and have been working on a festive cocktail.

At first, we thought we would create the classic Leap Year cocktail that was invented in 1928 by Harry Craddock at the Savory Hotel in London. As always, we had to sample the cocktail, which is a mix of gin, sweet vermouth, Grand Marnier, and lemon juice. We all agreed it was not tasty enough to offer...I am being nice, it was awful.

After much deliberation, we decided to make a Vanilla Tangerine Side Car. Here is our recipe:

Vanilla Tangerine Side Car ~ serves 16
4 3/4 cups Hennessy
1 2/3 cups Cointreau
6 1/3 cups Sour Mix
3 1/4 cups Vanilla Tangerine Mix (recipe to follow)

1) Mix all ingredients in a pitcher. Pour over ice in low ball glasses and garnish with an orange slice.

Vanilla Tangerine Mix
5 tangerines, peeled and chopped
2 vanilla pods, split
2 cups sugar
3 cups water

1) In a stock pot, add all ingredients. Let boil, stirring every three minutes, and then simmer uncovered for 30 minutes to reduce. Turn off heat and allow to cool. Remove vanilla pods when cool.
3) Add cool liquid to a blender and puree. Put through a fine mesh strainer and keep remaining liquid in a air-tight bottle in the fridge until ready to use.

A Pink and Orange Clutch

2012-02-28T05:44:00.024-08:00

kate spade

Can a Kate Spade bag be the inspiration for an entire wedding? The answer is a resounding yes! Really, anything that speaks to you can inspire the tone of your big day.

Tour flea markets, antique shops, retail stores and museums. Read design, fashion, and food magazines. Surf blogs and plan day trips to the ocean, mountains, local gardens, and lakes. Anything, anywhere, might strike your fancy.

paratinovia

When you find something that speaks to you, buy it, photograph it, or tear it from the pages of a magazine. Put it in an inspiration journal - I use 1" white binders from Staples with clear plastic page inserts. There you can visit you design inspirations and plot your dream wedding design plans.

sharyn peavey for a Capers wedding

Show your design inspirations to your event planner, caterer, florist, and good friends. You never know where a wonderful idea might come from. Above we set up an Izze soda bar to celebrate our brides signature color. We also worked those colors into our menu for the evening.

Dream big and your wedding will be as unique as you are.

lovefromtheoven.com

weddingpaper

sharyn peavey for a Capers wedding

simplyinspireddesigns

weddingwire.com

weddingsbycolor.com

parties and celebrations

myweddecorations.blogspot

Artichoke Bisque

2012-02-27T09:45:00.005-08:00

Some days I just cannot get warm. When one of those days occurs, I like to make a batch of Artichoke Bisque.

This recipe could not be easier, especially if you own an immersion blender. But, any blender will do - just cool the soup before blending in a counter-top model.

Artichoke Bisque ~ serves 8

1 Tablespoon butter
1 Tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 Tablespoons flour
5 cups chicken broth
1 cup white wine
juice from 1/2 lemon
4 cans artichoke hearts, packed in water, drained and sliced
1 teaspoon thyme
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup sherry
salt and pepper to taste

1) Melt butter and warm oil together in a stock pot. Add onions and cook for 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
2) Add flour to the pot and cook for 3 minutes. Add broth, white wine, lemon juice, artichoke hearts, and thyme. Cook for 30 minutes. Remove from heat and puree with an immersion blender.
3) Put back on the heat and add the heavy cream and sherry. Season to taste and serve warm.

This can be made a day in advance and reheated.

I like to serve the soup with toasted baguette slices topped with herbed goat cheese and a crisp Boston lettuce salad with a lemon vinaigrette.

The Golden Glitterati

2012-02-24T07:00:00.006-08:00

If you are looking for a golden cocktail for the Academy Awards, look no further. This drink is sophisticated, simple, and sassy.

The Golden Glitterati ~ serves 2
10 ounces Prosecco, chilled
2 ounces vanilla liqueur, chilled
4 ounces Goya passion fruit juice, chilled
2 mint sprigs

Split evenly between 2 champagne glasses and garnish with fresh mint. Serve immediately.

Academy Awards

2012-02-23T12:05:00.005-08:00

This Sunday marks the 84th annual Academy Awards, and I will be tuned in with a bottle of pink champagne. In additional to my fizzy cocktail, I will also be enjoying some warm chive pancakes with creme fraiche and salmon caviar.

The chive pancakes can be made a day in advanced and warmed before the award ceremony begins.

Chive Pancakes ~ makes @ 36 pancakes
1 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
6 Tablespoons buttermilk
2 eggs, beaten
3 Tablespoons chives, minced
4 Tablespoons olive oil
1 cup creme fraiche
1 cup salmon caviar
5 chives, cut in 1/2" slices

1) Mix first 6 ingredients together in a bowl.
2) Warm a non-stick saute pan over heat and add 1 Tablespoon of oil. Ladle half dollar size pancake batter into the warm pan, and cook pancake, flipping to cook evenly. Add oil to the pan as necessary. This recipe should make approximate 3 dozen pancakes.

If you are making the pancakes a day ahead, store in a air-tight container, and warm on a cookie sheet for 10 minutes in a 350 degree oven.

When warm, top with creme fraiche and salmon caviar, and garnish with a chive baton.

Tropical Wedding

2012-02-22T09:51:00.000-08:00

Today, I thought I would share a few of my photos from Eliza & Josh's wedding in Costa Rica. She did a beautiful job!

I have also included some tropical inspirations.

examiner.com

Margaritas and Corona beer Popsicle will keep all of the guests cool before the sun goes down.

bakersroyale.com

greenweddingshoes

stylemepretty.com

weddingnouveau

Canine Ring Bearers

2012-02-21T10:11:00.001-08:00

cottagecheesevintage

Having just come back from the Westminster Dog Show, and a beautiful wedding in Costa Rica, I have dogs and weddings on my mind.

What could be better than including your best friend in the wedding ceremony? Many cute ring pillows can be purchased on Etsy.com...I will include more photos soon!

christie86.blogspot

etsy.com

dexknow

kellyoshireoevents

savethedateevents.blogspot

Rum Punch

2012-02-17T12:48:00.006-08:00

Santa Teresa, Costa Rica is very chill...sort of like Stinson Beach, CA with palm trees. Lots of surfing, mellow living, and body ink. It is definitely much too hot to do anything quickly...just time enough to slowly sip on a iced cold rum punch.

Rum Punch ~ serves 4
8 oz. Malibu coconut rum
8 oz. orange juice
8 oz. pineapple juice
4 oz. guava juice
4 oz. pink grapefruit juice
1 Tablespoon grenadine
6 dashes Angostura bitters
6 oz. Meyers rum
pineapple wedges

1) Mix first seven ingredients in a pitcher.
2) Add ice to 4 over-sized low ball glasses. Pour in punch and top with a Meyers rum floater. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and sip contentedly.

Welcome Bags

2012-02-17T07:16:00.011-08:00

This weekend, I am in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica at the destination wedding of my niece, Eliza. She worked at Capers as a wedding planner for three years, and is a major force behinds much of the planning for the weekend.

The above welcome bag greeted us upon arrival, with a helpful map, water, local plantain chips, sunglasses, and a much needed flashlight.

When it comes to welcome bags, less is often more. Welcome bags are not mandatory; they are just a special thank you greeting to your guests. If you choose to create welcome bags, find a fun tote that reflects your wedding. Maps and waters are always perfect, as is a locally made snack/sweet. Other additions could include aspirin, soaps, flashlight, little souvenirs, or bubble bath.

realsimple.com

thecharmedevent

austendarcyweddings

A Weekend of Showers

2012-02-16T14:08:00.009-08:00

afabulousfete.blogspot

As we get closer to the April start of wedding season, more and more showers happily crowd our weekend calendar. We always enjoy being a part of all of the wedding festivities, from the engagement party right through to the day-after wedding brunch. Then we can be absolutely certain that all the events are special, completely different from one another, and filled with unique touches.

This weekend, we are creating an all pink shower, starting with our signature miniature lobster rolls and rainbow radish tea sandwiches, then miso glazed salmon with an Asian pink grapefruit sushi rice salad, and ending with Chef Jon's pink cake-pops and miniature strawberry milk shakes. Plus a few surprises we have up our sleeves...

martha stewart

bridalguide.com

greenweddingshoes

martha stewart

Dinner Tribute to Malachy

2012-02-15T08:44:00.007-08:00

I was fortunate to be at the Westminster Dog Show last night to see all of the exceptional dogs. One was cuter than the next. Even though you may not be a fan of the Pekinese, you had to be impressed with Malachy's stage presence. For a little guy, he possesses a big personality.

In honor of Malachy, I am posting one of my easiest Chinese dinner recipes.

Malachy's Shrimp & Vegetable Stir Fry ~ serves 4
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1 Tablespoon rice wine
2 Tablespoon soy sauce
1 Tablespoon sesame oil
2 teaspoons sesame seeds
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

2 Tablespoons canola oil
2 celery ribs, sliced
1 cup snow peas
1/2 cup sliced water chestnuts
1/2 cup bean sprouts
1/2 cup salted roasted cashews
1 lb. medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 scallions, chopped

1) Mix sauce ingredients above the photo in a small bowl.
2) Warm 1 Tbsp oil in a hot wok and add celery, snow peas, water chestnuts, bean sprouts and cashew. Saute for 3 minutes until wilted. Remove vegetables from wok into a bowl.
3) Add 1 Tbsp. oil to same wok and saute shrimp until pink. Add back in the vegetables and the ginger sauce. Toss well to combine, serve with steamed rice and garnish with scallions.

If you do not yet have a rice steamer, it is the best device. Add it to your wishlist!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2012-02-14T08:49:00.000-08:00

I know you will be deep into lamb chops this evening, so give yourself permission to purchase a little chocolate dessert to mark the occasion.

My favorites include:

Flour's Chocolate Truffle and Milky Way Tarts and Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
Burdick's Chocolate Mice & Wooden Box Assortments
Ye Olde Pepper Candies Companie's Chocolate Pecan Turtles and Chocolate Covered Pretzels

Happy Valentine's Day!

Rack of Lamb a Deux

2012-02-13T10:34:00.000-08:00

Rack of lamb seems like it would be really difficult to execute, but the truth is, its easy! And, it looks completely impressive too. What would be a better choice for Valentine's Day?

Apricot Almond Rack of Lamb ~ serves 2

1 rack of lamb (ask the butcher to french for you)
salt and pepper
3 Tablespoons apricot jam
3 Tablespoons Dijon mustard
1/4 cup sliced almonds
3 Tablespoons fresh flat Italian parsley, chopped
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 Tablespoons melted butter

1) Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Place rack of lamb on a baking sheet, meat side up. Sprinkle salt and pepper.
2) In a small bowl, mix together apricot jam and Dijon. In another small bowl, mix together almonds, parsley, panko crumbs and butter.
3) Spoon jam mix over meat side of lamb and distribute evenly. Then top evenly with breadcrumb mix, patting crumbs into the jam mix with your fingertips, so that it adheres well to the lamb meat. Roast lamb in the oven for 25 minutes or until an instant read thermometer registers 120-130 degrees. Pull out of oven and let rest for 10 minutes before carving.

I like to serve this lamb with sauteed baby spinach with a hint of garlic and lemon juice, and roasted new potatoes.

Aphrodite's Love Elixir

2012-02-10T05:55:00.000-08:00

We were sitting around the office the other day, chatting about what cocktail to serve our significant others next Tuesday. We decided that it had to be red, include chocolate and be tasty. Here is what we crafted:

Aphrodite's Love Elixir ~ serves 2

4 ounces Suaza Gold Tequila
1 ounce Cointreau
4 tablespoons of Fresh Lime Juice (juice of 1of a Lime)
2 ounces Pomegranate Juice

2 ounces Prosecco (Sparkling Wine or Champagne)

Spicy Cocoa Rimmer (recipe to follow)

1) Rim a martini glass with the spicy cocoa by rubbing a lime around the rim of the glass, lightly dip the rim into the cocoa mixture to coat the rim with cocoa. Set aside.
2) Combine tequila, cointreau, pomegranate juice and lime juice in a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into cocoa rimmed martini glass, leaving room in the glass for a splash of Prosecco. Top the martini with a splash of Prosecco. Sip and enjoy

Spicy Cocoa Rimmer
4 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1) Mix all ingredients in a small bowl, pour into a shallow dish or small plate.

Guest Contributor
Chuck Ray, General Manager

Valentine's Morning

2012-02-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

As Valentine's Day fast approaches, its fun to plan a festive breakfast to start the day out right! What is better than Martha Stewart's clever idea of putting a smaller vase inside a larger vase and filling the middle with candy? I am partial to red-hots and red roses. The flowers are happy in their watery bath, and I can begin the day on a sugar high.

Birds in a nest are always a breakfast favorite. With a heart shaped cookie cutter, cut out the center of a piece of bread. Melt 1 Tablespoon of butter in a saute pan and add the bread, toast on one side and turn over. Add the egg, and cook until firm. Don't forget to add the heart cut-out to the saute pan to brown - it is perfect for dipping into the runny yolk!

These marshmallows are a cinch to make. Take each regular sized marshmallow and cut horizontally into thirds. With a tiny heart shaped cutter, cut though the middle of each - I use the cutter that I make linzer cookies with. Float in hot chocolate.

What a perfect breakfast!

Red Hot Weddings

2012-02-08T02:41:00.000-08:00

weddingbycolor.com

With Valentine's Day right around the corner, red weddings are on our minds.

Red positively pops next to white and carries the aura of passion and romance. I particularly love the Valentino wedding gowns and series of red bridesmaid dresses.

Enjoy these red inspirations!

marthastewart.com

hardcorpslove.com

redhotbrides.com

acandlelightwedding.com

projectwedding.com

outblush.com

lovelyweddingparty.com

weddingflowerideas.com

Valentine's Lunch

2012-02-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

Although we don't have any snow in Massachusetts, I would love to spend Valentine's Day in this cozy pink cottage. I would warm up some tomato bisque and make some lightly spiced pimento grilled cheese hearts. See recipe below.

Pimento Cheese Hearts - serves 12 (2 hearts each)

10 ounces New York sharp cheddar, grated
1 scant cup Hellmann's mayonnaise
1/4 cup jarred roasted red peppers, minced
1/8 teaspoon cayenne
2 loaf Pepperidge Farms white bread
1/2 stick butter

1) Cut 2 hearts out of each slice of bread. Preheat oven to 200 degrees.
2) Mix grated cheese, mayonnaise, red pepper and cayenne. Spread cheese on half the hearts and top with another heart.
3) Melt one tablespoon of butter in a saute pan. Saute each heart in batches, adding more butter when necessary. Place finished hearts on a cookie sheet and store warm in the oven. Serve with warm soup.

Super Bowl Recovery

2012-02-06T04:24:00.000-08:00

After last nights gluttony, and the Patriots loss of the Super Bowl, I need to make a warm healthy soup and lick my wounds.

I love to make shrimp and hominy soup, as I have most of the ingredients on hand from my big Super Bowl shop. Leftover tortilla chips are the perfect topping.

This soup is inspired by an old recipe from Bon Appetite - it is a well worn favorite, and freezes perfectly.

Shrimp and Hominy Soup ~ serves 8
3 Tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 stalks of celery, chopped
4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
8 cups chicken broth
1 14 oz. can chopped tomatoes
1 14 oz. can white hominy
Juice from 2 limes
1 Tablespoon chipotle chilies, minced

1 pound leftover shrimp, halved lengthwise (or uncooked medium)
1 avocado, chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
2 limes, sliced into wedges
2 cups crushed tortilla chips
salt and pepper to taste

1) In a soup pot, saute onion and celery until translucent - about 5 minutes. Add garlic and saute for 2 more minutes. Add oregano, broth, tomatoes, hominy, lime juice, and chilies and bring to a boil. Turn down heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
2) Add shrimp and cook 5 minutes until shrimp are cooked through. If using cooked shrimp, warm for 2 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
3) Serve in bowls topped with avocado, cilantro, tortilla chips, and a wedge of lime.

Super Bowl Ready 2

2012-02-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

This Sunday I will be creating a culinary extravaganza for my friends, and am excited to spend the weekend cooking. On my menu will be deviled eggs, nachos, chili, pulled pork sliders, cheddar grits, fried chicken, cookies, and ice cream...maybe I will make a salad as a nod to good health.

The below are some easy ideas for your big game festivities!

closetcooking.com

In addition to my line-up, I am definitely adding buffalo chicken dip.

martha stewart

These bar snacks are perfect with with a cold beer.

martha stewart

Mac & Cheese is always a favorite.

martha stewart

What is more classically Super Bowl than buffalo wings?

simplerecipes.net

These chili fries couldn't be easier.

closetcooking.com

You can't lose with these potato skins.

A Little Patriots Inspiration...

2012-02-02T07:37:00.000-08:00

While the Patriots are on all our minds this week, I thought it's be fun to explore the ways that you can incorporate your absolute favorite New England sports team into your big day. Now grooms, we aren't talking about life size cardboard cutouts of your favorite players or kegs of beer with red solo cups, but more along the lines of subtle touches...

Lauren Mann Photography

Incorporating the Patriots' red, white, and navy into the colors of your wedding...

GreenWeddingShoes.com

TheKnot.com

Then there is always your favorite tailgating food! Below are our Cheeseburger Sliders with Special Sauce and Lettuce, Skewered with a Cornichion Pickle.

David Tucker Photography

Or perhaps some football cupcakes instead of a traditional wedding cake..

Mini Baker Cupcakes

Finally, what better way to surprise your groom than with a New England Patriots themed groom's cake.

AJ's Moonlight Bakery

GO PATRIOTS!!

~Guest Blogger, Kate Monteiro

Winter Boutonnieres

2012-02-01T07:46:00.000-08:00

etsy.com

Winter weddings in New England can create expensive floral budgets.

Instead of floral boutonnieres consider these creative options. Isn't it amazing what can be done with felt, feathers, paper, beads, and buttons?

martha stewart

thestoryofkat.blogspot

Two Dresses? Too Cute!

2012-01-31T08:00:00.000-08:00

You're wedding day comes only once, so why not take the opportunity to show off more than one dress?

We're seeing brides change into a separate reception dresses more and more. Some for the love of fashion, and others to be able to dance more comfortably.

We love this trend and can't wait to see more!
~Guest Blogger Kristin

Super Bowl Ready

2012-01-30T08:15:00.000-08:00

www.chezpei.com

I love Super Bowl food and planning Super Bowl menus. It is the one night that you can justify eating huge portions of bar inspired comfort food. This year, I am still deciding what will be on the menu - choices include Mega Meatballs, Chili, Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Hot Wings, Nachos, and more.

Tonight, I am going to test drive these meatballs inspired from chezpei.com.

Mega Meatballs - serves 8
2 pounds lean ground beef
1 pound ground pork
1 pound ground veal
2 Tablespoons olive oil + 2 Tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic minced
1/4 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup parsley, chopped fine
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup cream
1 Teaspoon each salt and pepper
48 ounces prepared marinara
2 boxes spaghetti, cooked according to package directions
Grated Parmesan for serving
1/4 cup parsley, chopped

1) Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Heat 2 Tablespoons olive oil in a skillet and saute onions for 5 minutes. Add garlic and continue to cook for 2 minutes. Turn off heat and cool.
2) In a bowl add meats, cooled onions and garlic, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, eggs, cream and salt & pepper. Combine well and form into tennis ball sized meatballs.
3) Heat skillet and add 2 Tablespoons olive oil. Sear each meatball to brown, adding more olive oil if necessary.
4) Place browned meatballs in a large dutch oven with marinara and bake at 325 degrees for 1 hour. Turn meatballs every 20 minutes. Serve over cooked spaghetti garnished with Parmesan and parsley.

If any are left over, I love these meatballs reheated and served atop an Italian chopped salad of romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, and purple onions tossed with red wine vinaigrette and croutons.

Greyhound Cocktail

2012-01-27T08:01:00.000-08:00

On a cold rainy day in Boston, we could all use more vitamin C and energy.

hi*ball sparkling energy water is only 10 calories and comes a variety of gourmet flavors. Flavors include lemon lime, orange, wild berry, grapefruit, and vanilla. They also make 70 calorie energy juice in cranberry, lemon lime, wild berry and orange. All are tasty on their own and make for some exciting cocktail mixers.

Greyhound Cocktail ~ serves 2
8 ounces hi*ball sparkling grapefruit energy water
4 ounces Belvedere pink grapefruit vodka (or any premium vodka)
2 ounces freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice
2 Tablespoons lime juice
2 slices pink grapefruit for garnish

1) Add ice to two low ball glasses and divide ingredients evenly between the two. Stir well, garnish with grapefruit slices and enjoy!

hi*ball is available at most Shaw's, Stop & Shops and Whole Foods.

Happy Friday!

Martha Stewart's Money Saving Tips?

2012-01-26T12:39:00.000-08:00

caperscatering.com

We love nothing more than catering rustic farm to table, family style events. The above is a photo of a family style party we designed this summer with the arrangements and candles suspended from the roof of the tent...it was magical.

As our inquiries come in this season, we are finding more brides than ever interested in family style menus. Most have read 50 Money Saving Tips in Martha Stewart's Wedding magazine. While this article is informative in many ways, it is a bit misleading in its recommendation for family style events. This leaves our team with the difficult task of explaining why this style may not be within reach of many wedding budgets.

#35 quotes a New York based caterer who gives the impression that family style menus are a way to save money:

"Serving your meal family-style will add ambiance, act as an icebreaker, save you on table decor -- in this case, the food is the centerpiece -- and allow you to serve a menu of reasonably priced, festive dishes, like pasta, polenta, and risotto, that would never fly at a plated dinner," says Marcey Brownstein, of Marcey Brownstein Catering & Events in New York City.

chefsmarket.wordpress.com

While Brownstein is correct in mentioning a savings on centerpieces, and recommending less expensive menu items, the cost of executing a family style event far exceeds these small savings.

Family style dinners are more expensive than a buffet or served dinner. The long tables and accompanying linens are costly, additional waiters are needed to bring all of the platters of food out at once, more chefs are required to platter the food quickly to keep it warm in field kitchens, more rental serving pieces are necessary to service each table, and more food is required to create a look of welcoming abundance.

yummyweddingfood.com

That said, we love the look and the feel of these parties! And, we are delighted to cater each and every one.

We just wish a wedding journalist might set the record straight, so that each bride and groom has accurate information before getting their hearts set on a party style that may not fit their budget.

martha stewart

alchemyfineevents.com

styleunveiled.com

Turquoise & Coral Weddings

2012-01-25T14:49:00.000-08:00

life-love-laughter.tumblr

In New England it might be January, but at Capers it is already summer. As our phone rings with bridal inquiries, we are planning our summer menus and designs.

This summer we will be planning quite a few beach weddings. Coral & turquoise are always a match made in design heaven.

weddingbycolor.com

partease.com

A beautiful solution to something blue.

bridelicious.com

caribbeanjourney.blogspot

Consider assigning just a general color, and forgoing matching dresses. It is a lot more interesting.

mywedding.com

weddingzilla.blogspot

Silhouettes

2012-01-24T04:00:00.000-08:00

jonesdesigncompany.com

These vintage silhouettes are a whimsical inspiration for a custom wedding. A silhouette design is perfect for tying an event together from invitations through to wedding cake.

judithjosephine.blogspot

The pink silhouette cake is a wonderful centerpiece to this rosy dessert table.

marthastewartweddings.com

Fans keep the guests cool during the ceremony, and pets can be a part of the silhouette fun.

ba-reps.com

ohsobeautifulpaper.com

projectwedding.com

A Recipe for Wishes

2012-01-22T10:25:00.000-08:00

Happy Chinese New Year, and welcome to the Year of the Dragon!

Every year on this day, I have a ritual for new wishes. Unlike January 1st's concrete and measured goals, I like to use Chinese New Year for wishes and dreams.

I light a fire in my fireplace, take all of last years inspirations off of my inspiration board, and sit by the fire.

Wishes ~ serves unlimited
4+ sheets of clean paper
1 favorite pen
1+ hours to ponder
1 dash wonder
1 dash wisdom
1 dash inspiration
1 pinch believe

1) Start by writing down all of things that happened this year, both good and bad, and thank the universe for all that you learned from these experiences. How has the years lessons made you a better, stronger, kinder, or more knowledgeable? Did any of your wishes come true? Write until you feel you have looked at every blessing and every challenge from a hopeful and positive perspective.
2) Now, ball those sheets of paper up and toss it into the fireplace. Release it all into the cosmos.
3) With a fresh sheet of paper, write down your secret wishes...you know the ones. These are the dreams you would never tell a soul. No matter how outlandish, over the top, unreal they might seem, just write them down as quickly as you can. Anything is possible - that is for sure! Ball that paper up too, and burn it. Now your wishes are out there, ready to come true.

Good luck! Happy New Year, and commence to refill your inspiration boards with your visions for the new year.

Chinese New Year 2

2012-01-20T12:45:00.000-08:00

While I am planning what to serve for my Chinese New Year party, I will be sipping this South Pacific cocktail. If you are a coconut fan, you will love this one - it is inspired from a Martha Stewart recipe for a coconut margarita.

Coconut Punch ~ serves 4
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup fresh lime juice + 3 Tablespoons
3/4 cup Coco Lopez
3/4 cup Malibu rum
1/2 cup pineapple juice
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup Cointreau

1) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place coconut on a baking sheet and place in oven. Cook for @10 minutes until brown - stirring a few times.
2) Place 3 Tablespoons lime juice on a plate and the toasted coconut on another plate. Dip the rim of each of 4 glasses into the lime juice and then rim with coconut.
3) In a blender place 2 cups of ice and the rest of the ingredients. Blend until smooth and pour into prepared glasses. Serve immediately.

Happy weekend!

Chinese New Year

2012-01-19T09:14:00.000-08:00

saveur

While I am preparing for another play-off game on Sunday, I am also getting ready for Chinese New Year this coming Monday, January 23rd. This year will be the year of the Dragon, and I think it will be full of good fortune.

An easy hors d'oeuvre for a Chinese New Year party are Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts. You don't need a slew of ingredients, and they will be ready in no time!

Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts ~ serves 6-8
1 cup light brown sugar
3 Tablespoons Worcestershire
1 cup ketchup
1 cup Heinz chili sauce
1 pound bacon
2 8 ounce cans water chestnuts

1) Preheat the over to 375 degrees. Mix brown sugar, Worcestershire, ketchup, and chili sauce in a bowl.
2) Cut bacon in half and roll around each water chestnut, securing with a toothpick. Place on a baking sheet, and bake for 20 minutes. Pour excess grease out of pan.
3) Pour sauce over water chestnuts and continue to bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until brown and crispy. Serve warm with plenty of cocktails.

martha stewart

realsimple.com

browneyedbaker.com

saveur

Lemon Inspired Weddings

2012-01-18T09:28:00.000-08:00

ohhappyday.com

Wouldn't it be delightful to get married in this lemon grove? But, since that won't in New England, at least we can incorporate lemons in other ways.

realsimple.com

projectwedding.com

polkadotbride.com

martha stewart

elizabethannedesign.com
martha stewart

blog.weddingish.com

weddingwindow.com

weddingbee.com

Monogram Inspired Weddings

2012-01-17T10:46:00.000-08:00

weddinggirl.ca

Any inspiration that ties a wedding together from the save the date, to the big day, and right through to dessert is always desirable. Monograms are a popular element to incorporate in this way.

martha stewart

gourmetinvitations.com

Signature drink luges are both interactive and fun. We haven't met a guest that hasn't enjoyed a cocktail luge! And what is better than incorporating your logo in ice?

martha stewart

Split pea monogram shooters and cocktail napkins bring your initials into the food and beverages.

brides.com

Programs and invitations start the event cohesively.

bridefinds.com

A monogram table runner looks festive on long family style tables.

martha stewart

Bacon Pancakes

2012-01-16T04:59:00.001-08:00

This morning, I am going to take it easy and make some bacon pancakes. I have had my eye on this idea since re-pinning it on Pinterest...isn't it a cute photo?

When I am feeling extra lazy, I reach for some Bisquick Shake & Pour Pancake Mix which not only makes prep-time a snap, it makes clean-up even easier.

For this tasty dish, cook bacon until almost done. Pour Bisquick mix over each slice of bacon, cook bacon pancakes, and serve with warm maple syrup. Yum!

Play Off Weekend

2012-01-13T08:00:00.000-08:00

This weekend, I will be test driving some recipes for the upcoming Super Bowl. Of course, we will be routing for the Patriots, but regardless of what happens the big game is around the corner.

So, let's break out a cold beer and get down to business!

While dips are not always my favorite, this one is a winner, and is a perfect starter while the wings are cooking.

foodnetwork.com

Blue Cheese Dip ~ 2 cups

6 slices of bacon, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces cream cheese
4 ounces blue cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup light cream
2 Tablespoons scallions, chopped
2 Tablespoons smoked almonds, chopped
2 Tablespoons chives, chopped

1) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a skillet, cook bacon, adding the garlic towards the end of cooking. Remove bacon and garlic from pan, leaving grease behind, and cool bacon mix in a mixing bowl.
2) Add cream cheese, blue cheese, light cream, and scallions to the bacon mixing bowl. Spoon into a small baking dish and bake for 30 minutes. Top with smoked almonds and chives. Serve warm with kettle cooked potato chips or pita crisps. Devour...it won't last long.

Save the Date Ideas

2012-01-12T08:00:00.000-08:00

A creative and unique Save the Date card is a great way to set the tone for your wedding. It is the first impression you will make on all your friends and family in regards to the big day! There are so many routes you can take when designing them whether it is having an engagement shoot with your photographer, using your favorite picture of you two from one of your very first dates, or simply creating a design that tells a story about you and your journey together. The options are endless so get a little creative! (And of course they are going to be displayed around your friends' and family's homes for months...no pressure!) Here are some of my favorites:

Belle The Magazine

Etsy

Love Vs. Design

Oh So Beautiful Paper

Martha Stewart Weddings

Wedding Paper Divas

~Kate Monteiro, Guest Blogger.

Black & Yellow Weddings

2012-01-11T11:10:00.000-08:00

weddingbycolor.com

There is something special about black that make yellow pop in a beautiful way.

Spring it the perfect time for a black and yellow inspired wedding. Enjoy our Wednesday wedding musings.

kate spade

Brooch Bouquets

2012-01-10T08:00:00.000-08:00

Brooches seem to be making a comeback, but not necessarily in the way your mother or grandmother wore them.

Sure they can still be seen on jackets or scarves but we're talking about the wedding trend encompassing the jeweled pins in bridal bouquets. We're seeing them pop up at more and more weddings. Some brooches are family heirlooms from generations past, and others are early wedding gifts held onto as "something new."

We've chatted with brides who have been on brooch scavenger hunts, hitting up every yard sale and antique store in New England, ultimately serving as their something borrowed. As for something blue, brooch bouquets aren't just appearing in crystal & white. These stunning bouquets are a great way to incorporate your wedding colors!

I think the draw of this trend is not only the bouquet's beauty and personalization but they won't need to be dried to last forever!

~Kristin O'Connor, Guest Blogger ;)

Turkey Lettuce Wraps

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000-08:00

blog.babble.com

One of my New Years resolutions this year is to introduce new easy recipes into my weeknight dinner line-up. Over the years, I have collected a small posse of go-to recipes, but its time to freshen things up and add at least another dozen to the collection.

Here is a quick, easy and healthy recipe that might just make the cut.

Turkey Lettuce Wraps ~ serves 4

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb. ground turkey
1 cup julienne carrots
1 cup chopped water chestnuts
3 scallions, chopped
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 clove garlic, chopped fine
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
1 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon white vinegar
juice of 1/2 lime
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons ketchup
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon Sirachi, or other hot sauce

1 head of Boston Lettuce, about 8 large leaves from the head for wraps
3 green onions, chopped, for garnish
2 Tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

1. In a large skillet heat olive oil and add ground turkey. When turkey is half way cooked, add carrots, water chestnuts, scallions, garlic, ginger and almonds. Continue to brown.
2. In a bowl combine brown sugar, vinegar, lime juice, sesame oil, ketchup, soy sauce, and Sirachi. Add to the skillet and mix well.
3. To serve, place turkey mixture in Boston lettuce leaves and garnish with scallions and cilantro. Wrap and devour.

Blood Orange French 75

2012-01-06T03:44:00.001-08:00

bon appetit

With blood oranges in season, I love to find as many uses for them as possible. This cocktail recipe was inspired by a drink featured in Bon Appetit magazine a few years ago. I think it is perfect for Sunday brunch.

Blood Orange French 75 ~ serves 4
2 blood oranges
1/4 cup gin
1 Tablespoon agave nectar
1/4 teaspoon angostura bitters

1 bottle Prosecco

1) Slice one blood orange for garnish, and juice the second orange into a measuring cup. Add gin, agave nectar, and bitters. Stir until combined.
2) Pour 3 tablespoons of mix into a champagne glass and Prosecco and garnish with a blood orange slice.

A Healthy Snack

2012-01-05T08:47:00.000-08:00

As I set my diet plan for the year, it seems that the experts all agree on not skipping breakfast and eating five smaller meals a day. In addition they are recommending more protein from fish and lean white meats.

Keeping that in mind, I am coming up with some healthy snacks for myself, so that I don't get too hungry and binge on french fries.

These little shrimp toasts are a breeze to make. Purchase some Pepperidge Farms Very Thin whole wheat bread and cut out rounds with a cookie cutter. Toast these, cool and keep in a Ziplock bag for the week.

Next, take a 4 oz log of goat cheese and place in a bowl. Mash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon minced lemon zest, 2 tablespoon of freshly chopped basil, and salt & pepper to taste.

Then, open a can of small shrimp and rinse. Place in a separate bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.

To assemble, spread 1 tablespoon of goat cheese spread on a toast rounds and top with shrimp. Serve with a little tea, or green tea is you are feeling very healthy.

These are the perfect afternoon pick-me-up and the components can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for an easy snack.

Castle Hill, Ipswich

2012-01-04T11:57:00.001-08:00

Having fielded a lot of inquiries this week from potential Castle Hill brides, I was remember this pretty shot looking back at the mansion from the Grand Allee. So many of our photos of ceremonies look down the 160 foot wide Grand Allee to the ocean, but the view back at the house is just as lovely.

Here are a few shots of a recent wedding at Castle Hill.

Seersucker Weddings

2012-01-03T09:56:00.000-08:00

ohmygoff.com

As 2012 begins, we are awash with wedding inquiries galore, and I am busy reading every wedding magazine that I can get my hands on from across the country.

My favorite by far has been Southern Weddings. It is a gorgeous magazine, and I fell in love with their seersucker weddings. Here in New England, we do not seem to have the same zeal for traditional seersucker, but I think I have been converted.

I love the fresh clean lines of seersucker. You can feel summer just looking at it.

theknot.com

thecinderellaproject.com

olivialeighweddings.com

southernliving.com

theknot.com

weddinginvitations21.com

Shrimp Ceviche

2012-01-02T05:44:00.000-08:00

After all of the prime rib and Yorkshire pudding, I think it is time for a clean, fresh, healthy choice.

Join me in making a delicious shrimp ceviche that serves 4, or can be used as an hors d'oeuvres served in shooter glasses with small cocktail forks. I think a full sized serving of ceviche always looks nice in a cosmo glass.

Shrimp Ceviche ~ serves 4
1 pound medium cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
1/2 red pepper, finely chopped
1 avocado, diced
1/2 ripe mango, diced (optional)
1 jalapeno, minced
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup olive oil
2 Tablespoons cilantro, chopped
1 lime, quartered in wedges
salt & pepper to taste

1) Place shrimp, onion, red pepper, avocado, mango (if using), and jalapeno in a mixing bowl. In a separate bowl mix lime juice, olive oil, and cilantro. Mix dressing well, and pour over shrimp. Let sit for 1/2 hour, stirring frequently. Salt and pepper to taste.
2) Place into 4 individual cosmo glasses and garnish with a lime wedge. Serve with tortilla chips.

It feels good to eat something fresh and clean for dinner! We will be well on our way to losing that holiday 5.

Bah Humbug

2012-01-01T09:00:00.000-08:00

Did someone have too much holiday cheer?

Cheers for the New Year!

2011-12-30T06:55:00.000-08:00

polyvore

When it comes to New Years, I am a purist. Just straight pink champagne (maybe with a little raspberry for decoration).

That being said, I really like champagne with potato chips. I know that sounds tacky, but then I read this terrific article in the New York Times, and am feeling a bit vindicated. This year I will eat my chips with pride - maybe out of a silver bowl.

willjogforfood.com

Of course, after all that snacking I recommend a little sweet.

Cheers!

betty crocker

New Years Resolutions

2011-12-29T06:00:00.000-08:00

Now is the perfect time to sit down in a quite restful spot, and contemplate where you are right now, and where you would like to go in the next year or so.

Have you been putting off getting in shape, eating well, getting plenty of sleep, working on career goals, or learning a new hobby? You are not alone!

Get a new fresh notebook that inspires you. Grab a favorite pen or pencil, and right down the first 100 things that come into your head. What is it that you are most interested in? Don't think too much - just write as quickly as possible. It is important not to edit yourself. If a thought seems unrealistic, so what? Just write it down.
Ah, doesn't that feel good! Wow, look at all those fun goals.

Now, pick a few that you are really excited about, and set down a game plan that is realistic for you. For example, would like to learn to play the guitar? Can you commit to finding a guitar teacher and a guitar in the next week? Could you commit to a lesson each week, and practicing for perhaps 30 minutes each day?

If you write your goals down, and break them into little goals that are actually on your daily calendar, the sky is the limit! You can do it.

Holiday Wedding Bouquets

2011-12-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

martha stewart

While winter in New England may not be the best time for flower selections, white is always in season.

The below photo is a bouquet made from felt. It is amazingly intricate and very creative.

etsy.com

weddingbee.com

I love the simplicity of this winter pine cone bouquet.

And who can resist reds and burgundy.
Finally white and silver for the New Year!

the knot

Silver and Gold for New Years

2011-12-27T05:07:00.000-08:00

martha stewart

Gold and silver are the perfect color combination for a festive New Years Party.

saveur

A golden croquembouche might be a bit ambitious, but one can always be ordered from a bakery. It is a dramatic dessert for such a special evening.

Happy New Year!

Get Ready for New Years!

2011-12-26T16:15:00.000-08:00

New Years Eve is a perfect time to invite a few friends over for a special celebration. You don't need to go crazy making everything. Shrimp cocktail is easy to purchase, and all you need to do is put it out with flair.

Consider making easy blini and topping with sour cream, chives and and salmon caviar. Salmon caviar is delicious and is a less expensive caviar.

Blini - makes 24
1/2 cup all purpose flour
1 tablespoons yellow cornmeal
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
1 large egg
1 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons olive oil, for pan

4 ounces sour cream
4 ounces salmon caviar
1 bunch chives, minced

martha stewart

Warm oven to 250 degrees. Combine first 9 ingredients. Warm frying pan over medium heat and pour in olive oil. Add a half dollar sized pour of pancake mix. Saute until done and place petite pancake on a baking sheet in the warmed oven. Keep going until all pancakes are done.

These can also be made a day in advanced and warmed before serving.

Top each pancake with sour cream, caviar and a sprinkle of chives.

martha stewart

Merry Christmas To All

2011-12-25T09:00:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to All, and to All a Good Night

Christmas Eve Sparkler

2011-12-23T08:00:00.000-08:00

Serve this fresh-tasting sparkler at a Christmas Eve soiree. It’s not that strong, and you can make most of it ahead of time, adding the bubbles at the last minute. The fizz will last for a bit.

Cranberry cocktails are lovely when garnished with white or red cranberry swizzles. To make them, skewer 4 or 5 fresh berries on a toothpick or skewer. Place in freezer until ready to use.

Christmas Eve Sparkler

Makes 6 cocktails

4 kumquats, thinly sliced
1/3 cup Grand Marnier
1/4 cup superfine sugar
1/2 cup cranberry juice 1 bottle (750 milliliters) chilled sparkling white wine
6 frozen cranberry swizzles

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 sliced kumquats, Grand Marnier, sugar, and juice. Mash ingredients with the back of a spoon and let stand for 5 minutes. Strain mixture through a fine sieve over a measuring cup or bowl, pressing on the solids to extract all juice. In a pitcher, combine liquid kumquat mixture and sparkling wine. Pour into Champagne flutes, and garnish each flute with a frozen cranberry swizzle and a slice of the remaining kumquats.

Happy Holidays!

O Tannenbaum

2011-12-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

martha stewart

There is something magical about a Christmas tree with twinkling lights. Back in the 70s and 80s when I was growing up, the biggest decision facing a tree decorator was the color of the lights. Our family was religiously a white light family, and would have never strayed into the colored light camp.

These days the options are endless. Will your tree be a traditional fir, or silver, pink, or white? Will you decorate with traditional decorations or will you only hang pink ornaments?

martha stewart

Hailing from New England with boxes of old family ornaments, it is hard to break away from tradition, but I longed for that pink and silver tree! Then...I decided to defy my Yankee roots of austerity...why not have more than one tree? And, so the world of multiple trees opened up, bringing more happiness and Christmas cheer...sheer decadence!

southern living

Consider the mini trees at the top of this blog post for your Christmas dinner place cards. Could they be any cuter?

Merry Christmas!

lilly pulitzer

coastal living

style me pretty

Burgundy Wedding

2011-12-21T08:30:00.000-08:00

Burgundy is one of my favorite wedding colors. While burgundy is not the first choice among our brides, it is very dramatic, and I think romantic.

The first four photos are of a wedding we catered at Castle Hill in Ipswich, MA. The remaining photos are of burgundy bridal inspirations.

bride.net

myownlabels.com

projectweddings.com

Green, Blue and Silver Holidays

2011-12-20T11:14:00.000-08:00

This past weekend, we catered several blue, green and silver themed holiday parties. A departure from the traditional red and green is a welcome change.

The first three photos are from our events, enjoy the rest for festive inspirations!

martha stewart

southern living

Even the dog matches. Too cute!

martha stewart

inspiredbohemia.blogspot

country living

southern living

Peppermint Bark

2011-12-19T09:00:00.000-08:00

Making homemade peppermint bark with quick and easy. It is also a great hostess gift, and packages very festively in cellophane bags with a pretty bow.

Here is what to do:

Peppermint Bark

8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
8 ounces white chocolate, chopped
2 teaspoon vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
8 candy canes, crushed

1) Melt semi-sweet chocolate, 1 teaspoon oil, and 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract in a bowl over simmering water. While this is melting line an 8'x8' pan with foil. Pour melted chocolate into the prepared pan, and spread evenly in the pan. Freeze for 20 minutes.
2) Melt white chocolate and 1 teaspoon of oil in a bowl over simmering water. While this is melting, put the candy canes in a zip-lock bag and hammer with a heavy spoon until the candy canes are in small pieces. Pour white chocolate over dark chocolate, spreading evenly over the dark chocolate. Sprinkle evenly with candy canes and press into white chocolate softly. Freeze 30 minutes.
3) Remove from pan, peel off foil, and break into smaller pieces.

Happy snacking!

Holidaytini

2011-12-16T09:00:00.000-08:00

This is a popular cocktail this holiday season. It's clear color is perfect for larger events where spills are more likely. White grape will certainly not stain like pomegranate and it is very tasty too!

Holidaytini

Makes 1 cocktail

1 1/2 ounces grape vodka (preferably Ciroc)
4 ounce triple sec
1 ounce fresh lime juice
1 ounce white grape juice
Grape rimming sugar (available at barsupply.com)

In a shaker filled with ice, combine all ingredients. Shake vigorously until well chilled. Strain into a chilled martini glass rimmed with sugar. Garnish with green-grape swizzle.

For the swizzles, thread green grapes on a short bamboo skewer or long wooden pick; freeze until ready to use.

Red & White Holiday Tabletop Designs

2011-12-15T09:00:00.000-08:00

martha stewart

I love red tabletop designs during the holiday season. They are festive and sophisticated, with a touch of whimsy. The above is a favorite from Martha Stewart - the lanterns make the look.

edytaszyszlo.com

Add cute ornaments to each place setting. They double as a place cards and party favors!

Martha Stewart

Every table needs a little bit of candy.

Always remember above the table is as important as on the table. Check your lighting before the party starts. Bright lights can kill a party as quickly as bad music.

martha stewart

A festive bar greets guests.

Happy holiday entertaining!

Forget the Brunch Buffet!

2011-12-14T09:00:00.000-08:00

This Thursday we are catering a ladies cookie swap in Cambridge. Because the cookies will be dominating the dining room table and side board, we are going to cater the brunch with all passed items. The above pancake skewers will be a big hit, as will our mini bacon cups filled with hash browns.

We will also be passing fruit smoothies and warm tomato bisque in demitasse with grilled cheese batons, to name just a few of the offerings.

A champagne cocktail bar will be featured with Kir Royales, Mimosa and Bellinis. Should be a pleasant morning for the ladies! Wish I were a guest.

Deck the Door

2011-12-13T09:00:00.000-08:00

gapinteriors.com

southern living

joanna parker designs

Hot and Sassy Chicken Wings

2011-12-12T09:00:00.000-08:00

To me, chicken wing recipes are like chocolate chip cookie recipes, you just can't have too many in your repertoire. This recipe is the best wing recipe I have made in a long time without using a deep fryer. I found the recipe on the Life is Still Sweet Blog and made a few adaptation that I think work well.

Sweet & Sassy Chicken Wings: serves 4
2 lbs. chicken drummettes and wings
1 whole orange, zest and juice
1/3 cup soy sauce
2 Tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
2 Tablespoons rice wine vinegar
1 Tablespoon honey
2 teaspoons Sriracha sauce
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Cooling Wing Dip
2 heaping Tablespoons Greek yogurt
2 heaping Tablespoons mayonnaise
1 scallion, chopped
1 Tablespoon cilantro, chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1) Place a steamer basket in a large pot and fill with water to the base of the steamer basket. Add wings and simmer for 20 minutes. Preheat your oven to broil.
2) While the chicken is cooking, work on the sauce and dip. For the sauce, combine orange zest, the juice from the orange, soy sauce, ginger, rice vinegar, honey, Sriracha sauce, and red pepper flakes in a large bowl. For the dip, combine all ingredients in a small bowl and garnish with extra scallions.
3) When the wings are done steaming, toss them into the sauce and place wings on a baking sheet. Broil for 16 minutes total, turning the wing and basting every 4 minutes.
4) While the wings are broiling, reduce the sauce in a saucepan by approximately 1/2 to create a glaze. This will be your basting sauce and can be poured over the cooked wings once they are plated. Serve with the cooling sauce. They are sweet, hot, and cooling all at once - perfection.

Pomegranate Sparkler

2011-12-09T09:00:00.000-08:00

This weekend, we will be mixing a lot of sparkling cocktails. This sparkler is a healthy, heart-smart cocktail because of the pomegranate and ginger. It’s like sangria, and just as potent, but perfect for brunch.

Makes 4 cocktails

1 cup pomegranate juice
1 tablespoon sugar
1 small piece fresh ginger, peeled and cut to yield one 1/4-inch-thick slice
4 tablespoons fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon Cointreau
1 bottle (750 milliliters) Prosecco

Combine pomegranate juice, sugar, and ginger in a saucepan; bring to a boil, and cook, stirring, until mixture is reduced to 1/3 cup, about 10 minutes. Let cool. Pour 4 teaspoons pomegranate syrup, 1 tablespoon orange juice and 1/4 teaspoon Cointreau into each of four 6-ounce Champagne flutes. Add 2/3 cup Champagne to each flute. Garnish with 3 to 5 pomegranate seeds each.

Holiday Cookie Swap Party

2011-12-08T09:00:00.000-08:00

thecakeblog.com

During the holidays, a cookie swap is an easy way to entertain. Not only do you get to see your friends, but you can also check holiday baking off of your list with ease.

Here is the plan:

1) Send an Evite or Paperless Post invitation out to @ 36 friends. Ask that they each bring approximate 6 dozen of one type of cookie, a large container, and that they tell you what cookie they will be bringing when they RSVP.
2) When you know the names of the cookies that will be brought, make small signs so that everyone knows what each cookie is on the buffet.
3) Make some mulled cider and open a few bottles of wine. Consider putting out some easy cheese & crackers and dips. If you are feeling overwhelmed, ask a few of the guests to bring appetizers in lieu of cookies.

bhg.com

Just because it is a cookie swap, doesn't mean you can't bring other types of individual desserts. These cute snowmen are a snap to make. Click on this link for the recipe: http://www.bhg.com/recipe/cookies/marshmallow-snowmen/

countryliving.com

When the guests arrive, place the cookies on the buffet, and remember to put your signs next to each addition.

If you are feeling creative, set-up a table with packaging materials for the guests to take home their sweets. A selection of packing materials should include boxes, tissue paper, wax paper, labels, bags, markers, scissors and stickers. They will have the container that they brought their cookies in, but it is nice to have options.

enchantedexpectation.blogspot

If you are feeling extra ambitious ask each guest to bring a cookie cutter. Collect the cutters in a decorative gift bag and draw a name out of a hat. Cookie cutters are a terrific door prize, and what a great collection this would be for any home.

Happy Baking!

sugarcraft.com

Crane Estate Barn & Appleton Farms Barn

2011-12-07T09:00:00.000-08:00

With wedding season 2012 right around the corner, we are very excited to have two new barns available on the North Shore! We will be posted more photos soon. Please call us for more details, as these are the perfect spot for a sustainable wedding.

Just Married

2011-12-06T09:43:00.000-08:00

What better way to leave your wedding then in style?

martha stewart

eye on life magazine

Grape & Blue Cheese Truffles

2011-12-05T08:00:00.000-08:00

This time of year, it is good to have a few easy hors d'oeuvres recipes in your back pocket. This is one of them.

I love this recipe, because the bites are delicious, simple to make, and very versatile. Try making these with other types of cheeses and nuts.

Grape & Blue Cheese Truffles ~ makes 24 grapes
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
8 ounces blue cheese, softened
3 Tablespoons Marsala
1 bunch white grapes
1 cup pistachios, ground

1) Mash cream cheese, blue cheese and Marsala together until combined.
2) Take one grape and cover with cheese mixture by rolling the grape and cheese around in the palm of your hand. When grape is covered with cheese, roll in nuts, and place on a cookie sheet. Store these in the fridge until you are ready to serve.

These are perfect with wine during cocktails.

Lemon Ginger Drop

2011-12-02T08:00:00.000-08:00

Lemon Ginger Drop

Makes 1 cocktail

1 1/2 ounces premium vodka (preferably Grey Goose) 1 1/2 ounces premium lemon vodka (preferably Grey Goose Lemon) 1 1/2 ounces fresh lemon juice 1 1/2 ounces ginger simple syrup (recipe follows) Ginger-infused rimming sugar (recipe follows)

In a shaker filled with ice, combine vodkas, lemon juice, and ginger simple syrup. Shake vigorously until very well chilled. Strain into a chilled glass edged with ginger-infused rimming sugar.

Ginger Simple Syrup 1 cup sugar 1 cup water 1/2 cup peeled, thinly sliced fresh ginger (1 large piece)

In a heavy saucepan, bring sugar and water to a very low boil. Immediately remove from heat. When sugar has dissolved, add ginger. Let cool. Remove ginger. Store in an airtight container in refrigerator. Makes 10 cocktails.

Ginger-Infused Rimming Sugar 1 cup sugar 1/2 cup candied ginger

In a food processor, combine ingredients; pulse until candied ginger is very finely chopped. Store in an airtight container.

The Open Road

2011-12-01T09:00:00.000-08:00

Last year I purchased this shirt, and aside from it being tremendously comfortable, I love the message. Wouldn't it be wonderful to escape onto the open road, explore the world, and have the luxury to think of nothing at all?

Most of us cannot swing a complete departure from our everyday reality, but perhaps a personal excursion or honeymoon wherever the winds might blow is possible.

Below are a few musings from my fantasy trip.

WGBH for Special Events

2011-11-30T08:00:00.000-08:00

We cannot say enough great things about the venue space at WGBH. The atrium and studio are gorgeous, and make for some truly unique events. This is a recent event for a corporate client.

Festive glow bars are a terrific addition to any party.

Studio set for dinner. Ask us for more photos!

Photographic Guest Book

2011-11-29T08:00:00.000-08:00

If I had one piece of advice to share with brides, I would say...pay more attention to your guest book.

Guests books are often a detail that falls to the bottom of the planning list. Many times they are just standard books that guests sign their names in, later relegated to an old keepsake box filled with dust. Such a missed opportunity!

Guest books are second only to the photographer/videographer in capturing the essence of the day the bride has spent months planning.

The reality is that no matter how well a bride & groom organize their time, they are going to miss moments of their special day. To capture what might be lost, consider a photographic guest book. The new Fujifilm Instax MINI 7s White Instant Film Camera at only $65 is an amazing value and it is cute too!

At the end of the day you will end up with a very special keepsake that you will enjoy leafing through for many years to come.

Toffee Grizznuckles

2011-11-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

Now that the season of giving and parties are upon us, I am on the lookout for something yummy to package and give to friends. I thought I would try this classic recipe for Grizzlenuckles.

Grizzlenuckles are a cross between a classic bar and candy. A little bite goes a long way, as it rich and dense. I have updated this classic with Heath bar bits...I like to add more candy wherever possible!

Grizzlenuckles ~ 24 bite sized squares
1 can sweetened condensed milk
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
6 oz. semi-sweet chocolate morsels
3 oz. Heath bar toffee bits

1) Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2) Crush graham crackers in a food processor, and mix together all ingredients.
3) Pour into a greased 13"x9" baking pan. Bake for 30 minutes, cool and slice.

Remember to package your Grizznuckles in a decorative holiday container! Martha did a great job on these sweets:

Tangerine Dream

2011-11-25T09:00:00.000-08:00

After a day filled with gluttony, start your Black Friday with this healthy brunch tonic.

Tangerine Dream

Makes 1 cocktail

1 1/2 ounces Cognac (preferably Hennessy)
1/2 ounce Cointreau
2 ounces sour mix
1 ounce vanilla tangerine mix chilled (recipe follows)

In a lowball glass filled with ice, combine all ingredients. Stir well. Garnish with an orange twist.

Vanilla Tangerine Mix
5 tangerines, peeled, chopped, and seeded
2 cups sugar
3 cups water
2 vanilla beans, split lengthwise

Combine tangerines, sugar, and water in a 3-quart saucepan. Cook over high heat for 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Add vanilla beans, scraping to release seeds. Reduce heat to medium. Stirring occasionally, simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, or until mix is reduced to 2 cups. Cool. Remove vanilla. Puree mix in blender. Pour into a bottle; chill. Makes 16 cocktails.

Grace Kelly

2011-11-24T09:00:00.000-08:00

Grace Kelly's style never goes out of fashion. Yes, she was a beautiful woman, but it is more than just that.

Sara Dennis, a successful friend in the fashion industry in Manhattan writes: "Grace Kelly's style was very pure and clean. The look can be achieved fairly simply at any price point. Ergo, it has endured."

I think Sara is right.

There is still a place for beautifully tailored and simply designed fashions, where less is still more.

With a re-cut bottom, how good would this suit look on a honeymoon?

Dazzling 50th Birthday

2011-11-23T09:00:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday evening, Chuck Ray, planner extraordinaire did a gorgeous 50th birthday at DeCordova museum in Lincoln. Special thanks to the vendors that helped with this event: Marc Hall Design, Frost Production, Party by Design, Tommy Wholesale, DJ Raffi, Jane Potter Jazz Trio, and Be Our Guest.

Guests enjoyed a selection of passed hors d'oeuvres, as well as six handcrafted short plates, and a selection of desserts.

Sake Salmon Short-plates

5-Spice Grilled Shrimp with Scallion Pancakes & Baby Bok Choy Short Plates

Petite Chicken Pot Pie Short Plates

Swizzle Sticks

2011-11-22T09:00:00.000-08:00

hostess blog

Make your wedding more personal with creative cocktail stirrers. Signature cocktails are always in style, but make them shine with these inspirations.

weddingbee

martha stewart

Lemon Blueberry Tea Bread

2011-11-21T09:00:00.000-08:00

Maybe you're headed to your soon to be in-laws for Thanksgiving, and you may not be called upon to cook the turkey. If this is the case, consider making this irresistible homemade tea bread. It is perfect for a special holiday breakfast.

I like to eat it several ways. Warmed and slathered with butter, cut in slices and then triangles and dolloped with cream cheese, and sliced and grilled in melted butter until browned. It is so sublime. I like to remind myself that it is full of antioxidants, so that I don't feel quite so guilty as I slice a second piece off of the mini loaf.

Lemon-Blueberry Bread ~ makes 2 mini loaves
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 egg
2 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups fresh blueberries
1 Tablespoon grated lemon rind
Topping ~ to follow

1) Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Combine sugar, milk, butter and egg in a mixing bowl, beat until smooth.
2) Add mixture of flour, baking powder and salt; mix with the above and fold in blueberries and lemon rind.
3) Spoon into 2 mini loaf pans and sprinkle with topping. Bake until golden brown and test with a toothpick until it comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack.

Topping
1/2 cup sugar
1/3 cup flour
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon grated lemon rind
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1) Combine all and sprinkle over mini loaves before baking.

Don't forget to package it creatively!

Thanksgiving Cocktail

2011-11-18T07:32:00.000-08:00

A few years ago, I wrote a book titled Sassy Sips & Nibbles pairing cocktails with a little cocktail nosh. This is a photo of one of the cocktails from More magazine talking about the book. Here is the recipe:

Apples Behaving Badly

Makes 1 cocktail

2 ounces premium apple vodka (preferably Citadel) 1 ounce DeKuyper Sour Apple Pucker schnapps 1 ounce sour mix 1 lady apple, sliced crosswise so seeds are in shape of a star

In a shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, schnapps and sour mix. Shake vigorously until very well chilled. Strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with an apple slice.

To see the entire article follow this link!
http://www.more.com/entertainment/food-travel/midlife-mixers

Aspen Chic Weddings

2011-11-17T09:00:00.000-08:00

There is something so romantic about a snow-filled wedding weekend. The Gorsuch catalog inspired my winter musings.

wedwebstalks.com

weddingwire.com

weddingbee.com

Vintage wedding tabletop designs are perfect for the a winter wedding.

brideorama.com

martha stewart

Perfect pre-wedding outfit.

Paper Flowers

2011-11-16T09:00:00.000-08:00

This fall we worked with one of the most creative and talented brides. Due to an allergy to flowers, she created all of the bouquets, centerpieces, and even garnish flowers from paper. The results were spectacular to see.

Above is one of her floral designs decorating a passing platter of skewered watermelon, feta, and fresh mint with a balsamic glaze.

The bridges bouquet matched her shoes perfectly.

Above is my favorite. She not only designed the boutineers, complete with feather accents, she also created organizational boxes for each one. Truly impressive.

Thank you to David Tucker for these photographs!

Bride and Groom Chairs

2011-11-15T09:00:00.000-08:00

capers catering photo

elisabethannedesigns.com

Any small touch that differentiates your wedding from another is well worth doing. These bride and groom chairs add individuality to the day.

designstudiob.blogspot.com

the knot

elizabethannedesigns.com

Camembert So Easy

2011-11-14T09:00:00.000-08:00

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, it is good to have an easy to prepare hors d'oeuvre in your repertoire.

This simple little recipe will transform a common grocery store Camembert into something exceptional. The cheese displays beautifully and will be gobbled up very quickly while the turkey cooks...you might think about making two.

Baked Camembert ~ serves 6-8 (with restraint)
1 8 ounce wheel of Camembert in wooden box
1 small clove of garlic, slivered
1 pinch of crushed red pepper
10 leaves of fresh rosemary
Freshly ground salt and pepper
Drizzled extra virgin olive oil, your best

1) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cut a hole in the tops of the Camembert. Top hole with shaved garlic, crushed red pepper, rosemary, and salt & pepper. Drizzle with olive oil.
2) Place into the 350 degree oven for 20 minutes until melted and oozing. Serve with sliced baguettes, crackers, and sliced apples. It will not last long!

French 75

2011-11-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

When I think of a classic elegant cocktail, I think of the French 75.

After college, I moved to Beacon Hill and I will always remember walking through crisp leaves on cold autumn evenings to tuck into the old wood paneled bar at The Ritz for a French 75. This was my one indulgence, as my salary at a local ad agency was meager at best.

The French 75 was delivered with great flair, and came with a sidecar (an added bonus for a gal just starting out). Contentedly sitting in that quite bar, looking out at the Boston Garden gave me something to aspire to.

French 75 ~ serves 2
4 ounces gin
3 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 Tablespoons simple syrup
2 cups of ice
1 1/2 cups, sparkling wine, chilled
1 lemon, to make long lemon twists

1) Put all in a martini shaker and shake vigorously. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with a long lemon twist.

This is a vintage Waterford crystal martini glass.

Beach Front Weddings

2011-11-10T09:05:00.000-08:00

This week we are exploring timeless classics. There is nothing more classic than a beach inspired wedding. Natural colors of white, blue and tan are the perfect complement to natures back-drop.

Cure for the Coming Winter Blues

2011-11-10T07:49:00.000-08:00

If the snow in Boston is as bad as last year, I am going to need this Tory Burch Fur Hobo to survive.

Timeless Weddings

2011-11-09T09:00:00.000-08:00

Today, I am including two recent backyard weddings that both celebrate white. There is nothing quite as classic as a white wedding, perfect in every season.

A simple lemonade stand greets the guests before the outdoor ceremony.

The wedding cake pulls in a little bit of color.

Gazpacho shooters with grilled shrimp are a great riff on the classic shrimp cocktail.

Our salad tied with a cucumber ribbon mimics a bridal bouquet. It is a beautiful presentation!

Timeless

2011-11-08T08:45:00.000-08:00

Last week I had the fortunate pleasure of shadowing Lauren DuPont, Creative Director at Jack Rogers for the day. Seeing Jack Rogers headquarters in Manhattan was fascinating, as I have always been a fan of the traditional Navajo sandal.

The Navajos come in a wide selection of delicious colors! They are perfect for beach weddings and honeymoon vacations to warm climates.

In the past few years the creative team has been widening the brand's selections with heels, wedges, boots, and more. All are beautifully made and remain uniquely Jack Rogers. The below pair became my evening shoe of choice this past summer and look terrific with a crisp white linen pant.

If you are ordering Navajo sandals, I recommend purchasing them in a half-size smaller than your usual size. They do stretch a bit, and I think you will be happier in the end!

Credits:
First photo: Jack Rogers website ~ Second photo: Mrs. Jacqueline Kennedy by The Associated Press ~ Third and Fourth photo: unknown ~ Fifth photo:

Mrs. Jacqueline Kennedy walks past a group of onlookers March 31, 1961 as she leaves St. Edwards Catholic Church in Palm Beach, FL after attending Good Friday services. The first family was in Palm Beach spending their Easter holidays. Image via the Associated Press