David Monn : Defining Modern Living

Join Us at Our New Blog Site and Updated Website!

2011-08-22T13:59:00.007-04:00

Hi. I hope everyone is having a great end of summer.

The team here at David Monn, LLC is excited to announce the launch of an updated website www.DavidMonn.com and a brand new and improved blog found here http://davidmonn.com/wordpress/

After this posting all blogs will continue at the new location so plesae update your "Follow Status" to the new site.

Please "like" us on Facebook too!

Sincerely,

David Monn

Bloomberg News: Not-for-Profit Party Ideas in NYC

2010-12-15T14:36:00.004-05:00

Recently I was interviewed by Bloomberg News regarding my contribution to the not-for-profit world which is near and dear to my heart. I think giving back is the most important thing I can help do in my business as a party planner. Below is the article! Cheers to giving this season to your charity of choice.

Bloomberg Holiday Story here

Today Show Holiday Table

2010-12-15T12:44:00.014-05:00

What would you do if you were asked to plan a last minute, day of, dinner party for 8 complete strangers for less than $150? Well, the Today Show called with that challenge and here is what my team and I created.

We wanted a mystical holiday table and elegant but affordable food. Below are the recipes and decor. If you need more info please comment. And, tune in to the Today Show LIVE Monday, December 20th around 9AM Eastern.

Décor List:
Quilt Batting (Table Cloth)
1 White Sheet
White Christmas lights
Apple barrel for centerpiece
Burlap fabric for napkins
Birch wood candle holders
Pillar candles

Grocery store list:
(Centerpiece)
3 bunches green Grapes
Gypsy baby’s breath
1 box Sugar for Grapes (to frost the fruit)
Walnuts

Recipes:
(Soup)
8 servings
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup chopped shallots
1 cup Sauternes
4 cups chicken stock
1 15.5 ounce can puree of chestnuts
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
Chopped parsley for garnish
Croutons

Heat butter on medium, add shallots and sauté for 10 minutes.
Add Sauternes and cook 10 more minutes.
Add chicken stock, bring to a boil and reduce heat, add chestnut puree and whisk until smooth.
Add cream, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper and simmer for 15 minutes.

(Twice baked potato)
8 servings
8 Over sized Idaho Potatoes, bake until done.
Scoop out
Add:
1 cup of sour cream
1/2 lb butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup of heavy cream or until smooth

Combine all and hand mash mixture.
Add back into potato skins.
Brush the top with butter.
Bake 20 more minutes at 350 degrees.
Finish with a quick broil to give a golden brown top.

(Venison Chili)
4 slices bacon, chopped
3 pounds venison stew meat (leg) cut into ½” cubes
1 cup chopped red bell peppers
1 cup chopped Spanish onion
1 clove garlic, chopped
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 cup dry red wine
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground coriander
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper or to taste
1 16-oz. can diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Cook the bacon in a large pot until the fat is rendered and bacon is crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Season the venison with salt and pepper and brown in the bacon fat on all sides (in batches in a single layer). Remove meat from pot and add peppers, onions and garlic and cook over low heat, stirring, until onion is translucent. Deglaze the pan with the wine and tomato paste, turn up heat, and bring to a boil. Add spices, tomatoes, beef stock, venison, and bacon. Reduce heat to a simmer and simmer, partially covered, until venison is tender (about 2 hours or longer). Adjust seasoning. Like any chili, best if made a day or 2 in advance so flavors can develop.

The family was my favorite part of this entire project. I loved working with Steve and Jenny Margolis and their two wonderful boys. Thank you for allowing me into your home. Happy Holidays.

Les Cochons Dans Une Croissant Avec Mustard!

2010-12-12T08:37:00.010-05:00

Keep holiday entertaining simple and fun. This season I suggest creating a mustard dipping station for my favorite hors d'oeuvre of the season "pigs n a blanket", or in french "les cochons dans une croissant."

You can find an assortment of mustards at:

Kalustyan’s

123 Lexington Avenue
New York, NY 10016
Order online for holiday delivery!

1. Basil Dijon Mustard 7.2oz jar for $13.99

2. Chinese Mustard, Extra hot 4.25 oz for $8.99

3. Creole Mustard 5.25 oz for $9.99

4. Honey Mustard, sweet. 4oz jar $7.99

David Monn's Soundtrack of the Holidays

2010-12-10T10:28:00.008-05:00

I have been listening to R&B lately and have been inspired by some really amazing holiday tunes, some old and some new. I'm sharing with you my music for this season. I hope you enjoy the selections and maybe they can help set the stage for your own holiday party.

Silent Night – Boyz II Men
White Christmas – Otis Redding
Merry Christmas, Baby – Christina Aguilera
Let it Snow – Boyz II Men
Silent Night – The Impressions
I Want To Come Home For Christmas – Marvin Gaye
Our First Christmas – Gabriela Anders
Do You Hear What I Hear – Yolanda Adams
Oh Santa! – Mariah Carey
This Christmas – Tamia
With a Christmas Heart – Luther Vandross
The First Noel – Born in the King
Silent Night – Keyshia Cole
O Come All Ye Faithful – Luther Vandross
Ill Be Home for Christmas – The Isley Brothers
When Christmas Comes – Mariah Carey
The Christmas Song – The Temptations
Time of Year – Ashanti

Holiday tips for yor table (featured on Martha Stewart Living Radio)

2010-12-03T12:23:00.009-05:00

I love the holidays. The warmth of the season, the time with family and friends and especially the decorating! Often people ask my advice about holiday table settings and centerpieces. I have a few easy entreating tips to share that I hope inspire you to create your own festive table.

Instead of flowers I'd like to suggest a few other more affordable ideas. The first centerpiece is using green grapes, green apples, both dusted with frosted sugar, rose cones and glittered babies breath. You can spear the apples with floral sticks and insert them into floral foam.

The next centerpiece can carry you through 2012. It is all babies breath. I choose both gold and silver glittered for this sample. We used floral foam, or oasis, to secure it all in a gold bowl I had in our office.

For me, it is about creating the whole environment. I am a huge fan of having your home smell like the holidays. The Ralph Lauren Holiday candle with currant, evergreen and juniper is wonderful, but if that is out of your price range Ashland Home Occassions makes a Christmas Tree scent that is $3.50, you can find this at Michaels.

And, my fun food suggestion of the season is...Pigs n a Blanket! For Gourmet style try Dean and DeLuca's Kobe Beef and Costco has an amazing selection too! Serve with a selection of mustards!

If you'd like to listen live today, December 3, 2010 at 2PM eastern check out http://www.Sirius.com/freetrial/register

Update on Post:
To check out David Monn on Martha Stewart Radio click on her radio blog here.

The Gold Standard

2010-11-23T18:09:00.002-05:00

Recently I had the pleasure of being interviewed by the New York Times about some of my favorite shopping spots in New York City. It was hard to narrow it down so I choose instead to focus on something I have in my own home, the color Gold. I love the warmth of this color and these shops all have amazing items that I love.

You can read more of the story here at this New York Times link.

The Story Behind "The End Of History"

2010-11-22T15:38:00.021-05:00

I recently had the pleasure of officially meeting Stephen Saunders. He owns "The End of History", a unique antique glass and ceramic shop based in New York City. I admire that he is keeping an art alive through his passion. Here is a little about the story behind the boutique and how it got its name.

Antiques are in Stephen Saunders blood. He comes from a family of antique dealers in England. Mr. Saunders credits this as to what drives his "collections obsession". From the time he was a very small child he was taken to estate sales and local auction houses. When he was 8 years old he joined the Boy Scouts because they had the best rummage sale in his home town! By the age of 13 he was selling antiques found on the Isle of Wight to relatives in London who owned a shop near the Portabello Road antique market.

What started as a fascination with Chinese & Japanese porcelain from the 18th & 19th century turned into a rediscovery of the beauty of mid 20th century Scandinavian studio ceramics, themselves inspired by the royal collections of Sweden & Denmark of Asian ceramics, and the amazing work that came out of Italy in the 1950s and 60s, Murano glass and gold.

The name of the shop is taken from The End of History and the Last Man a 1992 book by Francis Fukuyama, expanding on his 1989 essay "The End of History?", published in the international affairs journal The National Interest. The title of the shop, for Mr. Saunders, also means the end of a period when the dollar was king and American department stores were full of Scandinavian and Italian design. It was also a nod to the upcoming millennium, as he opened a shop full of 20th century design at the very end of the century in 1997.

Today, "The End of History" celebrates 13 years in business. Their merchandise can be seen in amazing homes, TV shows like Mad Men (one of my favorites), movies like Sex in the City and in many publications. I am inspired by the history represented by this collection of glass. The wonder I feel walking into his shop in New York City, I hope, can inspire generations to come.

A Passion for Print

2010-11-17T13:56:00.034-05:00

While shopping for a soon to be published New York Times story I was inspired by other artisans who, like me, truly follow their passions. The next few blog entries I'll introduce you to some of the people behind the names of some amazing stores. My holiday wish is to inspire others with these brief biography's as they have inspired me.

Luke Ives Pontifell owns Thornwillow Press. They are known for their fine handmade books and printing. In addition, Thornwillow designs and manufactures paper for some of the finest purveyors of stationary like Crane's and Cartier. They also have their own lines of cards which draw from the rich traditions of classical engraving and letterpress printing.

They just opened up a boutique of curiosities and library gallery in the NYC St. Regis Hotel. How Mr. Pontifell came to create Thornwillow Press is a story of following one's passion. This is a very short version of the amazing history behind Thronwillow and its passionate creator.

Mr. Pontifell was born in New York City, but a lot of his time was spent upstate at his parents 18th century home surrounded by Thornwillow trees. The home was full of antiques and a collection of beautiful books. He grew up fascinated with the idea that ideas and thoughts from the past will carry far into the future long after we are gone. When he was 15-years-old he took a course in letter press. It ignited his passion for typography and the written word. He was inspired to make functional beautiful objects that will last. Every year during college he printed one book. In his senior year of college his passion turned into a business. Luke and his family are now celebrating 25 years of fine printing, paper making and binding for clients such as Louis Auchincloss, Walter Cronkite, Helmut Kohl, Barrack Obama, John Updike among many others.

Thornwillow Press now is entirely based in the United States. In 2004 he set up workshops in a complex of 19th Century factory buildings he purchased in Newburgh, New York to consolidate these operations. There his team of artisans is dedicated to practicing and perpetuating the crafts of traditional hand engraving and letterpress printing, decorative paper making, gilding, leather bookbinding and fine press publishing. The work of Thornwillow is diverse, but united in its commitment to the presentation and preservation of the written word. Luke firmly believes the idea of how something is made is in the soul of the object. You can feel that when you pick up any of his products.

Some of my personal favorite's of his, for this holiday season, are the letter press, gold place cards, they are wonderful for entertaining. Next time you are in New York City stop by the St. Regis and say hello and get more of the inside story behind this amazing home made brand.

David's Seceret Recipes!!

2009-12-15T11:39:00.016-05:00

David Monn's secret reciepes as seen in Black Ink published by Departures.

Triple Baked Potato

What You’ll Need:

8 Potatoes (40-50 Count Yukon Gold)*
¼ Cup of Sour Cream
¼ Cup of Crème Freche
2 Tablespoons of Double Devon Cream Butter
2 teaspoons of Portugese Salt (Kosher salt if 4oz of Cream Cheese not available)
Grape Seed Oil

* 40-50 count is a size measure used in the Produce Industry and each of these potatoes weigh about a pound and a half each.

Getting Started:
Coat the exterior of the potatoes with grape seed oil. Wrap each potato individually in aluminum foil.

Place them into the oven, and bake at 350 degrees for one hour and thirty minutes.

Remove potatoes from foil and using a thin knife, slice along the top both lengthwise and crosswise and fold back the potato skin.

With a table spoon, hollow out the potato insides getting as close to the potato’s skin edge as possible leaving only a shell.

In a mixing bowl, combine potato insides, crème freche, sour cream, cream cheese, Double Devon cream butter, and salt.

Mix on high until potatoes become a smooth, creamy consistency. If the potato mixture seems too thick or not creamy enough, add heavy cream (or whole milk) to the mixture until consistency is ideal.
Place mashed potatoes into a pastry bag (you may want to use a shell tip to add a design although it is not necessary) and pipe, filling each potato shell. Place filled potatoes back into the oven for 10 minutes at 350 degrees.

Remove potatoes and allow to cool for 20-30 minutes. Before serving, brush melted butter onto exterior. Place potatoes under the broiler until potatoes become lightly browned on top. Serve immediately.

I serve several condiment options:
1) Royal Transmontanus Caviar from Petrossian
http://www.petrossian.com/
2) Classic chilli
3) Vegetable ragu
4) And of course, lots of butter!

Aunt Julia’s Angel Food Cake

What You’ll Need:

Cake:
1 ½ Cups of Egg Whites
3 Tablespoon of Vanilla Extract
½ Cup of Cake Flour
1 Tablespoons of Almond Extract
½ Cup of Almond Flour
1 ½ teaspoons of Cream of Tartar
¼ teaspoon of Salt
Granulated Sugar: Portion 1 of Sugar (¾ Cup plus 2 Tablespoons); Portion 2 of Sugar (3/4 Cup)

Whipped Cream Icing:
2 Cups of Heavy Cream
1 Vanilla Bean (Seeded)
1/3 Cup of Granulated Sugar
1 Tablespoon of vanilla extract

Filling:
2 Cups of Bakers Angel Flake Sweetened Coconut
Kalustyan’s Rose Scented Jam (Or your own)

Directions:
Combine egg whites at room temperature, cream of tartar, and salt. Mix at medium speed for one minute. Add portion 1 of sugar, vanilla and almond extract. Beat at high speed until egg whites form high peaks. This will take approximately 3-5 minutes.

Combine cake flour, almond flour, and 2nd portion of sugar. Lightly fold into beaten egg whites. Pour into ungreased angel food cake pan and bake at 375 degrees for 30-35 minutes, or until top is golden brown.

Remove, and immediately turn pan upside down on a plate and allow to thoroughly cool.

Whipped cream:
My secret to the perfect whipped cream consistency is to place the mixing bowl in the freezer for an hour prior to beating.

Combine heavy cream, vanilla extract, contents of one vanilla bean, and sugar. Beat at low speed for 1 minute. Turn mixer to high and continue to beat until whipped cream forms thick peaks. Do not over beat or it will form butter!

Assembling cake:
Now for the magic to begin!

With a serrated knife, cut cake into 3 equal horizontal slices. Begin with the top layer of the cake as the bottom layer on the plate. Spoon 1/3 of jam onto the layer and spread evenly. (I make my own rose scented jam at home, but I suggest using Kalustyan’s) Spread ½” thick of whipped cream. Sprinkle generously with coconut and repeat on next layer and the top

Lastly, frost the exterior sides of the cake with whipped cream and sprinkle coconut on sides. I find that slightly pressing the coconut into the whipped cream helps create a consistent, finished look.

Refrigerate immediately and remove it 15-20 minutes prior to serving.

Easy Entertaining

2009-10-12T12:04:00.004-04:00

Last week, I invited some of my friends over for dinner. I love to cook, and lately have become taken with perfecting my coq au vin recipe, so I asked them to try the latest version and give me their feed back.

For me, setting a beautiful table is as important as serving a beautiful meal. It's all part of the same experience and both parts need equal attention paid. Your table doesn't need to be "fancy" or feature expensive linens or china, but it should be elegant. For my latest dinner, I selected wonderful green grapes and draped them in small glass bowls, and filled some of my favorite silver pieces with sugared orange slices. These little touches made a big difference on the table, and gave my guests something to munch on between courses!!

Check back for more easy tips to take your next dinner party to the next level!

The Young Women's Leadership Network

2009-10-07T08:30:00.003-04:00

Last week I had the distinct pleasure of designing the Young Women’s Leadership Network (Em)Power Breakfast. Even though I’ve helped the YML Network in the past, the individual stories of the aspiring young women never fail to move me.

The YWL Network partners with urban public schools to create single-gender public schools and college bound programs for inner city youth. The YWL Girls’ Schools have given young women opportunities they may not have had without the help of the Network. This year, the students had the privilege of personally interviewing community leaders, one of whom was Mayor Michael Bloomberg, and several business leaders from companies such as RCA/Jive Label Group, Goldman Sachs and The Estee Lauder Companies. They were even lucky enough to meet one of my favorite musical artists, Alicia Keys!

With the fall season in full swing, the YWL Network (Em)Power Breakfast always serves to remind me that children all across the country are back at school and hard at work trying to reach for their dreams. I take great pleasure in supporting the Young Women’s Leadership Network because it allows me to help provide these young students with incredible opportunities. .

For more information about the YML Network please visit their website at www.ywlnetwork.org.

Condolences

2009-09-14T16:13:00.005-04:00

I feel like there have been a lot of people in the news who have passed away recently. I was saddened to learn of the death of my colleague, Robert Isabell, over the summer, and, more recently, Dominic Dunne.

Over the course of my career, I've been asked by a few special clients to coordinate the funeral and memorial services of a loved one who had just passed away. Although most people don't think about it, funerals and memorial services require just as much planning as any other event, often times more so due to the very short turn around time. I pride myself on giving my clients elegant and memorable events that allow them to say goodbye with grace and dignity.

About a month ago, we did a funeral for a client. When I mentioned that one of the children hadn't received many hand-written notes, someone in my office suggested that perhaps his friends and associates simply didn't know what to say.

A condolence note should be brief, avoid including a personal comparison (when my mother died...), and let the person know that you're there for them. It's perfectly fine to say "While no one can truly know how you feel, please know that I am here if you need anything at all." Obviously, sharing a short remark about the deceased if they were a family member or very good friend is perfectly acceptable, but not necessary if there was no close relationship.

In the end, the effort of putting pen to paper will mean more than the content of the note itself. So no matter how awkward you feel, send that note because it will mean the world to the recipient.

The Lights of Broadway Still Shine

2009-09-01T11:28:00.003-04:00

Several weeks ago, some friends of mine invited me to join them for a night at the theater. Going to a show is one of my favorite things to do. Taking in the scenery, the costumes, the phenomenal actors and of course the great story lines makes for a wonderful afternoon or evening out.

This time, I saw Mary Stuart. What an incredible show! Unfortunately, it's closed, but I had to talk about it. Director Phyllida Lloyd did an amazing job with the story of the dynamic relationship between Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots. In a time when men were the heads of the family and leaders, these two powerful women set the bar for female independence and the feminist movement.

The most amazing scene is the much-written about rain scene. Mary and Elizabeth face off in this pivotal moment with Mary, the prisoner, getting soaking wet, while Elizabeth, the executioner, remains dry in a scene that speaks volumes about both the characters both literally and figuratively. The actual rain was accomplished through the use of ceiling sprinklers and water traps and is simply breathtaking. I've never seen anything like it in theater before.

Although the show has closed, I had to talk about it because it proved that great, impactful theater is still alive and well in New York City. There are plenty of options for everyone - from historical to comedy to musical to children's shows. I think the theater is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon or evening and is one of the great things about this city.

As always, check out TKTS booths for daily discounted tickets.

Sammy's New Diet!

2009-08-26T11:35:00.003-04:00

Recently, a good friend of mine recommended that I speak with a nutritionist about Sammy. While he's always been in good health, Cavaliers are a temperamental breed and you need to keep a close eye on their weight. They're notorious for developing heart murmurs, and any extra pounds can make the problem worse. Happily, Sammy has not been diagnosed with a murmur, but I'm very conscious of what he eats to help avoid that issue in the future and to keep him as healthy and happy as I can.

She recommended two things:
1. Switch him to an all-natural diet
2. Split his proteins and grains.

I learned that dogs (as well as humans) cannot digest proteins and grains at the same time. In order to get the most benefit from both, it's best to split the two into two different meals. Proteins in the morning and grains in the evening.

In the mornings, I give him Dr. Harvey's vegetables with two ounces of fresh, ground raw lamb and 2 tablespoons of canned pumpkin and in the evenings, he gets Dr. Harvey's Miracle Food, a half cup of barley and 2 tablespoons of canned pumpkin.

Already, I can see a difference in Sammy's health. His coat is softer and more shiny, he's got more energy and a cold that he just couldn't seem to kick has finally gone away.

Check out www.drharveys.com for more information!

2009-08-21T14:16:00.002-04:00

Lately, I've really been focusing on streamlining and cutting back on things that I don't necessarily need. I think a lot of us have been doing that - getting rid of what we haven't used in a while or don't want or need any longer. Not only have I been doing this in my apartment, but I've also done it at my warehouse.

I realized that I've held on to a lot of things that I no longer needed, and I was taking up space unecessarily. But, the items I was looking to get rid of weren't garbage..they just weren't useful to me any longer.

My office discovered the organization Material for the Arts, based in New York City (www.mfta.org). They distribute donated items to the public schools' art programs, cultural centers and other arts organizations who could defnitely use the supplies. We sent rolls of fabric (leftovers from tablecloths, curtains and other items), rolls of paper, paper flowers, glass cylinders and many other items that I no longer needed to their warehouse.

Since then, I've received dozens of letters from NYC public schools, after-school programs, theater groups and even individuals who've been able to put these things to good use. The Pan American Interational High School auctioned off some items to purchase much-needed athletic equipment while students at P.S. 212 in Queens made Mother's Day gifts out of the things they received.

It's an incredible organization that's doing a lot to help keep the arts alive in spite of these difficult time, and I encourage you to support them in any way that you can.

End of Summer Perfect Lunch

2009-08-19T21:15:00.002-04:00

Everyone searches for the perfect summer lunch for afternoon guests, for me it is my friend Susan Mason’s tomato pie. Heirloom tomatoes are in season and I can't think of a better lunch to round up the end of summer. Susan’s tomato pie paired with a green salad is a simple and satisfying lunch even when temperatures rise. Below is Susan’s recipe, as well as one for balsamic vinaigrette. Be sure to check out her book Susan Mason’s Silver Service, which includes the tomato pie recipe and many delicious others, as well as event and catering tips.

Susan Mason’s Tomato Pie
Serves 6 to 8

9-inch pie shell, baked
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
4 tomatoes, peeled and sliced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
4 ounces white cheddar cheese, grated
4 ounces cheddar cheese, grated
½ cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 350° F.
Spread the pie shell with Dijon mustard. Layer the sliced tomatoes, salt and pepper, and cheddar cheese in the pie shell, ending with the cheese.
Mix together the mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl. Spread on top of the pie. Bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly. Let cool. Serve at room temperature.

Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon light brown sugar
1 garlic clove, crushed through a press (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¾ cup extra virgin olive oil

Whisk the balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, garlic, salt, and pepper until mixed. Gradually whisk in the olive oil until smooth.

Movies In The Park

2009-08-03T15:19:00.005-04:00

Like everyone else, I’m getting pretty tired of all the rain we’ve been having here in New York. On the occasions it does stop, and the clouds roll away, I like to get outside and take advantage of some of the unique, free, outdoor activities available to locals and tourists alike. One of my favorites is the 2009 HBO Bryant Park Summer Film Festival. Every Monday night, from June 15 – August 17, the lawn in Bryant Park opens at 5 p.m. to the public in anticipation of the film being screened later in the evening. The grass is always quickly crowded with families, couples and groups all enjoying a picnic dinner while waiting for the sun to go down, and the movie to begin. While there are several delis, sandwich shops and pizza stands close by to grab something, I like treating myself to something from ‘Wichcraft which has a kiosk right on the corner of the park. But the best is always a home-made picnic packed in an insulated cooler. The cooler will keep dinner cold all day, helpful if you’re coming straight from work. Tonight’s movie is “Kramer vs. Kramer.” For a complete calendar visit http://www.bryantpark.org/. Maybe I’ll see you there!

My Favorite Doughnuts!

2009-07-29T16:19:00.004-04:00

If you have been following my blog, it is easy to see that I have a pretty big sweet tooth. I love all sort of cakes, cookies, cupcakes and candies, and I have a very special spot for donuts.

There’s nothing better than the combination of the warm dough and the sticky and sweet glaze of a freshly-made doughnut. I would go to the 23rd Street Krispy Kreme every week to get my doughnut fix. I became such a loyal customer that one of the night employees would call me when the shells came off the conveyor belt, because I thought the shells were the best part.

I was really sad when the “Hot” light on 23rd Street went out for good. But, just when I thought I would have to be satisfied with the memories of the best donuts I’d ever tasted, I found something even better!

The Doughnut Plant, located on 379 Grand Street in New York City, opens its doors at 6 am and closes when their daily batch has been sold—which is not long since customers are lining up out the door. All of their treats are made with all natural ingredients and fresh fruits are used to make the glazes. My favorite is their new Crème Brulee yeast doughnut. The puffed dough is full of creamy custard with a toasted sugar topping. Stop by their bakery to try other fun flavors like Tres Leches, Banana Pecan, and Vanilla Bean, but don’t forget to get there early!

2009-07-28T09:27:00.000-04:00

Getting organized is something that can be difficult to do, but is extremely necessary! Whether it is taking a day off work to get errands done, grocery shopping or throwing a party, I think a schedule is the best way to make sure everything gets done. If you have a “smart phones” like a Blackberry or iPhone, you will find either a calendar or to-do list. Most of the time the calendar will also have an alarm that goes off at a set time, making remembering your plans much easier! Having a simple wall or desk calendar can be very helpful as well. If you are someone who enjoys and uses technology often, a calendar on Outlook might be more beneficial to you instead. If you want to get really into it, you can even color code your schedule based on what it is – a plan with friends, an errand for the house, or something work-related. It allows you to see how you’re spending your time!

When recording your plans and figuring out dates, I recommend writing down not only what it is that you are doing, but also the time and even location. When your schedule gets busy, it is sometimes difficult to recall who you were supposed to meet where or if it was at 12pm or 2 pm. Do you have any other ideas for organizing your schedule?

2009-07-22T10:39:00.000-04:00

I love picnics – grabbing a basket stocked with goodies, getting together some friends and enjoying a beautiful day outside. I think that food is one of the most important and fun parts of a picnic – you can do something as simple as a couple of snacks for an afternoon, or a full meal out under the stars.

For a full meal, I love to grill – hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken, kabobs, and fish are all options that are easy and perfect for this time of year. There are lots of great marinades available to make a good dish great. Classic sides include antipasto/pasta salads, dips and cut up veggies, and potato and macaroni salads. Grilled fruit (peaches, pineapple, nectarine, etc.) is great sprinkled with brown sugar and served on top of a bed of creamy, cold vanilla ice cream, perfect for my favorite part – dessert! Of course, you can’t go wrong with fresh fruit – it always tastes a little better when you’re on the beach, in the park, or relaxing in your backyard. To quench that thirst, go for lemonades and limeades, throw in some blueberries or cherries to mix it up, or check out my recipe for a fantastic Arnold Palmer – I blogged about it on June 25th. For something more adult, try a chilled Rosé wine or a nice dry white – both are perfect for summer. Pack everything in a willow picnic basket – I love the ones that are insulated to keep everything nice and cold – grab a blanket and you’re on your way!

2009-07-20T17:16:00.001-04:00

Sammy is my pride and joy; as the saying goes - a dog really is a man’s best friend. Since pets become members of the family, they deserve to be treated like it. Especially during the hot summer months, we must be attentive to the needs of animals.

Even though it’s hot out, dogs still need their exercise. To avoid overheating, consider an early morning or evening walk when it’s cooler. Walks at this time also protect paws from the hot ground. You may not know, but animals can get sunburned too. If you aren’t able to limit walks to early morning and evening hours be sure to put sunscreen on your dog’s nose and ear tips; dogs with light-color coats are especially prone to sunburns and skin cancer from the sun.

Overheating may occur if your pet has been out in the strong rays of the sun. If you notice heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, vomiting, or a deep red or purple tongue immediately bring your pet to a cool shady spot and apply cool water to his/her body. Letting them lick ice cubes is also a great way to cool down.

Be sure to keep your pet fully hydrated! Spiking water with different flavors is a very popular trend for humans, so try it with your animals. Try some tuna or beef flavor added to the water bowl. Your dog will be sure to slurp up every drop!

And, of course, don’t forget to make sure your animal always wears an ID tag and collar. This has helped reunite many pets and owners.

But don’t lose site of how important it is to have fun with your pet too! Try some good old fashioned Frisbee, jogging, or playing in a kiddie pool or the local lake to get your pet in the summertime spirit!

2009-07-16T10:00:00.002-04:00

Summer barbeques are one of my favorite things during the few warm months we have! I love getting together with a group of friends and just spend time relaxing and grilling in the warm summer sun. Sometimes though, the average hot dog and hamburger can get a bit boring and repetitive. One of the biggest issues I find myself running into is that I don’t just want meat. Especially with all the delicious light, summer vegetables out, I want to utilize them in my grilling while they last! Here are a few ideas to step up your next barbeque and wow your guests in a seemingly painstaking, yet nearly effortless way.

Shish kabobs are an easy way to create a full meal by combining hearty meat, with healthy veggies. Alternate your favorite meats or seafood with juicy tomatoes, onions, bell peppers – anything your heart desires! If you’re one of those people whose first thought is “burgers” when someone mentions “barbeque”, grilling veggies on the side is a good alternative. My favorites to grill are corn on the cob, asparagus, eggplant and large shitake mushrooms.

Lastly, I really enjoy a cold, crisp, lightly spicy salsa during the summertime. A friend of mine once told me about a fun idea for the grill that allows me to eat a delicious mango or pineapple salsa with something other than chips – quesadillas! Grilling not only allows you and your friends to be outside, taking in the beautiful weather, but it’s a fun spin for a summer get together.

What are some of your favorite things to grill?

2009-07-13T12:28:00.002-04:00

AileyCamp is a summer dance camp that provides inner city children between grades six and eight with the opportunity to “use dance as a vehicle for developing self-esteem, self-discipline, creative expression and critical thinking skills.” What I love about this program is that it gives children a sense of themselves. The mantra that the AileyCamp lives by is that there is no such thing as the word can’t. I had the pleasure of meeting Nasha Thomas-Schmitt, the Co-Director of Arts in Education as well as the National Director of the AileyCamp. She said something to me that is so profound that I will never forget. One of Nasha’s rules and wisdoms that she gives to these children is that there is no such word as “can’t”. Can’t means one of two things: either I do not know please teach me, or, I am afraid please help me. The word “can’t” simply doesn’t exist. Furthermore, I believe that the most beautiful expression of the soul is done via dance. This program is so special and provides for children one of the most valuable lessons of being able to express your individuality and to be yourself!

2009-07-08T14:02:00.000-04:00

If you’ve been following my blog, you know that I love to run. It’s the easiest way for me to clear my head after a long day, or to brainstorm about an upcoming project. I also love to take Sammy on long walks when the sun is out.

Whether you are getting in shape for a marathon, enjoy a nice jog or bike ride, or just like to take a leisurely stroll, grab a friend and roam the city! Mapmyrun.com is a great site – it measures the distance of your route, and suggests new routes if you’re bored with your current one. Sammy and I both like it for help in finding new places to take our walks. Below are several parks and areas in the city so you can get up and go!

- Central Park: anywhere between 59th and 110th street. You can walk around the paved walkways throughout the park. If you are up for the challenge, you could run the park’s 6.2 mile exterior.
- East River Loop: whether you are coming from the Upper East Side or down in the East Village, you can get to any part of the East River.
- Hudson River: For those on the West Side, the Hudson River not only has beautiful views, but also has a long path that goes directly along the Hudson with benches to rest on, grass to catch some sun, and even small parks along the way.
- Short Strolls: Take advantage of one of the city’s many parks! Washington Square Park’s half-mile perimeter could be perfect if you are with your dog or pushing a baby stroller. Walking around Battery Park and the Ferry Terminal will give you views of the Statue of Liberty, and is nearly a mile all the way around!

2009-06-26T15:48:00.000-04:00

2009-06-25T18:23:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow I will be on the Martha Stewart Living Radio show and summer is the name of the game. Because the season is here, I will be discussing all things…well, summer! I’ll be giving you some tips on how to have fun at home!

A fun way to invite your guests is by putting the invitation into the fold of a napkin. I love gingham for summer, especially the classic red. A pack of 15 Gingham Paper Beverage Napkins can be found at platesandnapkins.com for $4.95.

Among my list of summer essentials is my favorite recipe for an “Arnold Palmer”. It’s quick and easy - all you need to do is mix Crystal Light (both plain iced tea and lemonade) together with water. The key is to garnish with fresh mint, a slice of lemon, a slice of lime, and a slice of orange.

Another refreshing beverage is classic Pink Lemonade. I love Lorina Sparkling Pink Lemonade - a 25.4 oz. bottle can be found at Whole Foods for $4.99. The bottle is equipped with a swing top and rubber stopper; it’s great because its versatility allows it to be re-used. I use the empty bottle to hold Simple Syrup.

If you’re planning on having the occasion outdoors, you have to keep the bugs away. General Home Store has great 2’ tall bug repellant sticks that come in a tube of 7 for $28.00. The trick is to light them 15 minutes before guests start arriving. This allows the Juniper and Citronella scents to permeate the air, getting those mosquitoes under control!

If you plan on staying inside, I love Vie Luxe Candles. The Capri Luxe Scented Candle is from their “Voyage” collection and its citrus scent is perfect for the season. The Capri Vie Luxe 8 oz. candle can be found at scentsandsprays.com for $45.00.

All these essentials look great packed in a Galvanized bucket. They come in all different sizes and can be used for décor and serving pieces as well. It comes together to be a great gift! They can be purchased from Jamali Garden Supplies Inc. or most other floral shops for about $9.00.

What is a party without music? DJ Fioto created a great summer album for me and you can find all the songs on iTunes. You can also get into contact with him by e-mailing him at Jason@GenerationEvents.com

1. Heaven - Bitter:Sweet
2. Talullah - Jamiroquai
3. Aganju (Latin Project Remix)- Bebel Gilbert
4. Viagem - Daniela Mercury
5. O Bonde do Dom - Marisa Monte
6. Tranquilo - Bebel Gilberto
7. Bora Mora - Daniela Mercury
8. La Esquina - Federico Aubele
9. Time To Lounge - Alkemx
10. Smile - Lily Allen

Don’t forget to tune into the Martha Stewart Living Radio show tomorrow at 7:30 am on the Sirius Network channel 112!

2009-06-22T14:47:00.000-04:00

Now that summer is here, it’s time to think about vacations! A vacation is necessary for recharging the batteries and getting ready for the fall and all that comes with it. If you are not able to actually “go away”, you should still take an opportunity to get away from “reality” for a few days.

A great alternative is taking a “staycation”. A “staycation” is simply when you stay in your town or city but explore it as if you’re a tourist. Hit the local museum that you’ve always meant to go to, spend the afternoon in your area park or have a great meal with friends!

Quick tips for a successful Summer Staycation:

• Check your local city calendar for special events—concerts, charity benefits, fairs & festivals, or even a cooking or dance class, etc.
• Turn off your cell phone and hit the sofa with a bowl of popcorn, your favorite blanket and a movie that you’ve been wanting to see, but haven’t had the time.
• Try a new local restaurant or lounge. Rooftop locations are fantastic for brunch on a beautiful day, and great for meeting with friends on a clear night.
• Use your beautiful backyard for once! Make sure you have marshmallows, a sleeping bag, some flashlights and a scary story or two. Backyard camping combines the excitement of an adventure with the luxury of being in your own space.
• A tour and tasting of an area vineyard.
• Try a yoga retreat. Many yoga studios offer retreats at local parks, mountains, beaches, etc. You’ll develop a new appreciation for something that’s been there all along!

2009-06-19T10:21:00.003-04:00

I have recently come across Pencils of Promise, a non-profit organization that does just that; they strive to bestow every child with a pencil in anticipation of establishing the groundwork for a better tomorrow. More than 75 million children worldwide have so much potential to succeed—they just don’t have the means to do so.
Pencils of Promise is currently working on building schools all over the world. These schools will help children from some of the most impoverished places in the world to flourish and build self confidence and self-power. These schools are commonly situated in underdeveloped nations and cater to poverty-ridden families. The most extraordinary detail is that it is a partnered effort among local communities and organizations—together, everyone shares and gives back to help make the future a better place.

2009-06-18T10:19:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, I hosted a dinner to bid one of the women in my office farewell. Our table of sixteen at Via Emilia, a delicious Italian restaurant that mixes tradition with a twist of modern flair, was full of a variety of appetizers and entrees. Because the possibility of main courses arriving at staggered times exist, eating out with a group can be a bit uncomfortable once dinner arrives. If you get your meal before everyone else does, you never want to start eating if not everyone can do the same. Luckily, the rule of three exists! It may not be well known, but it is a general rule of thumb that once at least three people at the table have received their dinner, it is perfectly acceptable to begin eating. In this fashion, one’s food does not get cold and everyone can enjoy a meal that was meant to be hot and fresh —without the fear of being rude! Bon Appétit!

75th Anniversary of the Apollo Theater

2009-06-10T16:37:00.003-04:00

I designed the 75th Anniversary Gala of the Apollo Theater, which took place in Harlem on Monday night. One of the most interesting things from the night were the fun take-out boxes that Great Performances provided for guests. There was plenty of food laid out on the buffets, but if you didn’t want to sit and eat you could pick-up take-out containers full of crispy fried chicken, collard greens, and mini waffles or catfish and mac n’cheese to eat as you swayed to the music. Great Performances also re-invented the traditional po’boy and created new ones with coleslaw and shrimp.

All in all, the food was a fun take on traditional soul food and was a fantastic addition to the great décor, atmosphere and positive energy in the room. It was a fun party, and a great celebration of an important milestone for the historic theater. (Stay tuned for pictures – we’ll post them soon!)

June is the Month for Iced Tea

2009-06-01T12:26:00.018-04:00

Iced tea is such a popular summer drink the entire month of June has been named iced tea month! I wanted to share with you my iced tea secret, as well as a few other teas to try this summer.

A little background on the cold beverage...it was created in America nearly 100 years ago. The United States is the only country where the majority of tea is enjoyed cold. In fact, iced tea was invented because visitors to the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair weren't interested in drinking hot tea on a hot day ... so quick-thinking English tea merchant Richard Blechynden added ice, and the rest is history.

My secret to a great iced tea is Crystal Light. I keep it on hand all summer, so when guests drop by last minute I can make tea instantly. Another summer tip; I mix 1/2 Crystal Light Iced Tea with 1/2 Crystal Light Lemonade mix for the best Arnold Palmer.

If your preference is green or herbal tea try one of Tavalon's loose teas. Lemongreen and After Dark are great ones to test out. Bodum makes a great loose leaf iced tea pitcher, just add tea leaves, water and sugar, if desired.

Garnish each glass with a sprig of mint and an orange slice.

The Hudson River Park

2009-05-26T17:47:00.001-04:00

I believe one of the most incredible creations in New York City is the Hudson River Park. Due to the work of the non-profit organization known as “Friends of Hudson River”, and other generous donations, the river has been lined with bike and pedestrian trails, as well as lush gardens, scenic views, and playgrounds for children. In any city, it is vital to have a balance between urban and recreational spaces. People are meant to enjoy the outdoors, so these areas allow for celebrating and taking in God’s Green Acre.

Extending from 59th Street to Chamber Street, the park is near completion and will be holding its 10th Anniversary Gala tomorrow night at The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers. New York State Governor David A. Paterson will be honored and among the dinner chairs are Diana Taylor and my friend Martha Stewart.

For more information on this event that celebrates the time and commitment to the creation and maintenance of the Hudson River Park, visit http://www.fohrp.org/

Remember

2009-05-22T11:24:00.000-04:00

This Monday is Memorial Day, a commemoration for men and women who have given their lives to protect our country. Show your appreciation to these patrons by wearing red, white, and blue, helping in your community, or by attending a parade.

The National Memorial Day Parade is held annually in Washington, D.C. If you’re in the area, they are always looking for volunteers as well as attendees. Anyone can help the cause by visiting their website http://www.nationalmemorialdayparade.com/.

Put It In Ice

2009-05-22T10:59:00.004-04:00

Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of the summer—a time of warm weather, outdoor gatherings, and seasonal food. (I, for one, could not be happier that the summer is finally beginning!) Whatever your plans are to celebrate the three-day break—whether you’re hosting or attending a party—here is a quick and visually-appealing tip that can have a big impact.

One of my favorite ways to jazz up a drink is by adding decorative ice cubes. All you need is fruit pieces of your choice, water, and ice cube trays. Place the fruit in the trays, fill them with water, and within a few hours you’ll have fun drink décor. As the ice melts there will be an edible surprise at the bottom of your glass. And, it's a great way for you to use some great summer fruit that you may have around the house.

From One Closet To Another

2009-05-15T14:39:00.001-04:00

During her freshman year in high school, Rebecca Kirtman started a charity dress drive in her Florida hometown. She believed “little things can make a difference,” so she gathered and provided 250 prom dresses for girls who couldn’t afford to purchase them. Tragically though, Becca passed away in an automobile accident on August 20, 2003. In remembrance, her friends, family, and community continued the dress drive, now known as Becca’s Closet.

I recently heard about Becca’s closet and I think it’s a great way to help a high school girl attend her prom in style, especially during these uncertain times.
By providing one dress, one accessory, or a few hours of your time, you can make help prom a night to remember. For more information and to find a chapter near you, visit http://www.beccascloset.org/.

Marshmallow Cake

2009-05-14T14:45:00.001-04:00

On Monday night I had the pleasure of having a piece of a much unexpected dessert. I designed a 50th birthday party at The Modern restaurant, where pastry chef Marc Aumont created a marshmallow tower in place of the traditional celebratory cake. The coconut, vanilla, and pistachio marshmallow pieces were made out of real fruits instead of extracts.

After the incredible dinner Executive Chef Gabriel Kreuther created, I’m surprised I had room for dessert at all. We were all excited to hear that a week before the party Gabriel won the James Beard Foundation’s award for Best Chef in New York City. The food, plus the décor and guests, made for a wonderful evening.

Rainy Days

2009-05-08T17:41:00.000-04:00

It has been really rainy here in New York City and the dreary weather got me thinking about what people do when the heavens open up. The rainy weather often keeps us cooped up inside with the challenge of finding something to do. I know people who like to stare out the window at the rain falling on the sidewalks and street. Others like to relax with some popcorn and a movie. And some like to play board games with their children or friends. I find it interesting that all of these actions make us focus on relaxation. It’s interesting that rain can have such a calming effect on all of us, so even though I’m sick of the rain we’ve been having all week, maybe it’s not so bad after all.

Join the Joyful Revolution

2009-05-06T10:54:00.013-04:00

Last night I attended the most amazing event in NYC, the Joyful Heart Revolution Gala, founded by Mariska Hargitay to heal, educate and empower survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse and to shed light into the darkness that surrounds these issues. It was inspiring to hear stories from women across the United States who had been helped by the wellness healing classes and retreat the Joyful Heart Foundation offers.

Many people donated to last nights event, including Sheryl Crow, Dick Wolf films, and for the decor, my team pulled together a look inspired by the upcoming summer season and the healing power of water. Ocean blue tables, carpet and floating candles in varies shades of blue water. This look is something you can recreate with candles and food coloring. For scale, in this large space, I added helium filled weather balloons.

You can watch the inspiring 2009 Gala video by clicking here.

Happiness

2009-05-01T11:23:00.003-04:00

I recently went to see Susan Stroman’s new play and I walked away really impressed by the message it gave to its audience. “Happiness” is a new musical about different New Yorkers who get stuck in a subway car together during the morning commute. To get off the subway car, each traveler must remember their life’s happiest moment. The play celebrates those moments that we often don’t pay that much attention to and shows us that if you can’t find happiness in the small things, you can’t have a future. In order to live life completely, you cannot continually search for happiness but instead have to find it in the present, a sentiment that certainly rings true for all of us.

"Happiness" is playing at the Lincoln Center Theater in NYC through June 7th. Go to www.lct.org/showMain.htm?id=184 for more information.

La Esquina

2009-04-29T15:35:00.002-04:00

I recently discovered a very popular restaurant here in New York City that I thought I would share with all of you.

La Esquina, or “The Corner” in Spanish, reflects the traditions of a classic Mexican restaurant food, with an updated atmosphere and food and beverage preparations presentations. These elements are derived directly from the food and social scene happening in Mexico City today. Neighborhoods like Condesa and Polanco in Mexico City are experiencing an influx of international influences and a bold resurgence in the Arts and Food.

The food at La Esquina, reflective of Mexico City itself, draws influence from multiple regions around the country with emphasis on Oaxaca, Puebla and Veracruz. Our drink list and offerings rely heavily on Tequila and Mezcal to be consumed in the traditional way – with a sangrita chaser. Our wine list has been chosen both because the selections complement our menu and because the selections are derived from both Latin and old-world regions around the globe.

Centrally located at the south end of East SoHo's Lt. Petrosino Park, the Corner Deli is a turn of the century landmark structure. The Manhattan Diner or Luncheonette is one of the last examples of a vanishing breed. Tucked in below a fashionable loft building, the 200 sft. wedge shaped structure has been serving customers for a century, 24 hours a day 365 days a year. This charming piece of old New York has gotten a new lease on life with an extensive renovation, and an expansion into the basement vault space below. The new and improved Corner Deli serves delicious Mexican food inspired by the simple home cooked cuisine of the Mexican street vendor. Simple, but intensely flavorful variations of Mexican street food, is the perfect match for the busy bustle of a restaurant that provides dine-in, take-out, and delivery service.

Go to http://www.esquinanyc.com/ for more information.

Beautiful Weather

2009-04-24T12:30:00.002-04:00

Even though Spa Week in NYC is long gone, take today to Give Back to yourself. This does not mean take a day to get everything done on your to-do list. No errands or cleaning allowed! Just take this beautiful day to enjoy some down time at home or outside in the fresh air and sunshine.

We all get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the life so much that we forget that we need to take care of ourselves! Enjoy the newspaper, a magazine, or a novel. Do something for yourself you haven’t done before.

With spring in the air, let’s shed our winter coats and take this beautiful weekend to rejuvenate and renew!

Soak up the Sun with a Sponge Cake

2009-04-22T17:07:00.003-04:00

With the weather heating up (it’s going to be 80 degrees in NYC this weekend!), I thought it would be a good idea to share a good picnic food idea with all of you. Here is a great recipe for a cake that can be easily taken outdoors and enjoyed in the shade of a beautiful leafy tree.

Perfect for picnics, this easy sponge cake can be carried in the springform pan in which it is baked. Pair it with fresh fruits such as sweet cherries, strawberries or peaches and it makes a perfect snack.

Sponge Cake
For 1 cake (6 to 8 servings) you will need:

2 eggs
1 cup sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking powder
Dash of salt
1/2 cup milk
2 tbsp. butter

Beat eggs and sugar until thick and pale. Beat in vanilla. Mix flour, baking powder and salt. Add to egg mixture and mix to blend. Scald milk in small saucepan. Add butter, stirring until melted. Add milk mixture to flour mixture, mixing just enough to blend. Pour batter into a greased 8 inch springform pan. Bake at 350 degrees until top of cake is well browned and cake tests done when a wooden pick is inserted at center, about 35 minutes.

Midnight Run

2009-04-17T11:08:00.003-04:00

I’ve come across a wonderful organization here in New York that I thought was more than worthy of a mention on my blog. The folks at Midnight Run organize relief runs during the night to give out food, clothing and other vital supplies to the homeless throughout the NYC area. They are a “volunteer organization dedicated to finding common ground between the housed and the homeless.” They run over 900 missions per year and even coordinate with different shelters and facilities to provide showers, haircuts, and medical services to those in need. Their goal is not to provide a solution to homelessness but rather establish a foundation of caring and sharing between the housed and the homeless so that solutions can evolve. With all of the problems that exist in our world, it is refreshing to find an organization that focuses on the relationships of its volunteers and the people they serve as opposed to the quantities of items or money that are raised.

Midnight Run depends on donations for their items as well as volunteers to actually go out on the runs. Please go to www.midnightrun.org to find out how you can help. If you don’t live in the NYC area, Google a midnight run near you – similar organizations are all over the U.S.

David Monn on Weddings - Martha Stewart and WWD

2009-04-15T14:03:00.006-04:00

Tune in today to the Martha Stewart show: David Monn, Vera Wang and Frederick Fekkai will give their expert opinions on how to have the beautiful wedding of your dreams within your budget!

And, David was quoted this Tuesday's Women's Wear Daily in the Bridal Report by Rosemary Feitelberg.

"Outsmarting the Recession One Bride at at Time."
"Beauty isn't something that comes with a price tag first"... "hopefully people will feel inspired and will feel good." "Weddings give people an excuse for a moment to feel good."

Streamer Tablecloth

2009-04-10T13:14:00.002-04:00

We came up with some very creative ideas for our Wedding Showcase on Monday. A lot of people have been asking how I created certain elements, so I’ve decided to post some of our ideas and directions for them here.

Below are directions for how to put together a crepe paper tablecloth. While it took us 3 hours to put together, it only cost $8! What’s more, it’s quite practical and looks like fabric. Guests at the showcase could hardly believe it was paper. It is definitely a do-able project that you can do for a special spring/summer get together or dinner party.

Crepe Paper Streamers Tablecloth

(This project works best with two people.)

-Take a plain paper rectangle paper table cloth and lay on a flat surface
Lay streamers horizontally across the paper tablecloth with a little excess past the cloth underneath.
-Weave vertical streamers through the horizontal ones.
-Once strips are in place, carefully glue underside of woven squares to each other. Not every square needs glue – you can judge which do and which don’t.
-After the glue has dried then pick up table cloth from both ends and place directly onto table.
-Cut the bottom edge to the floor and round the edges for a more polished look.
-Add glue to any strips on the bottom edge, as needed.

Thank you!

2009-04-07T13:44:00.006-04:00

Our wedding showcase was last night and we could not be happier with the turn out. We got to reconnect with old friends as well as meet tons of new people. Our office was transformed, the food was great, and the music was entertaining. Check out some pictures of the party below.

A very special "thank you" goes to all of the following companies who helped us put together this event:

Callahan Catering for the delicious food and cocktails. http://www.callahancatering.com/

Cake Alchemy for their wonderful carrot cake. Yum! http://www.cakealchemy.com/

Xavier Flouret Wine for their fabulous product. www.cognac-one.com/?page=xavier_flouret_wines

Ayala Champagne for their fabulous bubbly. www.cognac-one.com/?page=ayala_champagne

GroundStone for their entertaining singing. www.myspace.com/groundstone1

Empyreal Strings for their amazing musical ensemble. Strings and Metallica…who knew? http://www.empyrealstrings.com/

Party Rental, Ltd. for their wonderful rental products. http://www.partyrentalltd.com/

Ceci New York for their beautiful invitations. http://www.cecinewyork.com/

Linda Pasca from Pen and Paper for her beautiful calligraphy. http://www.penandpaperdesign.com/

The Beistle Company for their crepe paper and honeycomb paper balls. http://www.beistle.com/

Billy’s Bakery for their sugary cupcakes. http://www.billysbakerynyc.com/

One Girl Cookies for providing wedding favor cookies for our gift bags. http://www.onegirlcookies.com/

VivoWhite for their teeth whitening pens that were a great addition to our gift bag. http://www.vivowhite.com/

Ad Source Marketing for providing our gift bags. http://www.adsourcemarketing.com/

Crane & Co. for providing the new editon of their Wedding Blue Book for our gift bags. It’s a wonderful resource – and some of it is available online. www.crane.com/navContentProduct.aspx?Name=Etiquette_Wedding

WellWed Magazine for providing their beautiful magazine for our gift bags (you guys should check it out!). http://www.wellwed.com/

Last, but not least... a HUGE thank you to the most amazing production company, Crazy Duck Productions, owned by Chuck and Sarah Fishbein. They helped us capture the event with video and still shots that are inspiring. http://www.duckyou.com/

Getting Ready!

2009-04-03T16:23:00.004-04:00

We're busy getting ready for the wedding showcase on Monday!

We're having fun crafting and putting everything together. Be sure to check in next week for pictures of the showcase along with all of my top secret ideas for fun spring entertaining.

For now, here are some pictures of Sammy lounging on a sample table as we work.

DM Wedding Showcase

2009-03-30T14:16:00.002-04:00

On next Monday, April 6th, I will be hosting a Wedding Showcase in my office in New York City. We will be showing off beautiful new ideas for spring and summer weddings or celebrations. We will also be showcasing different products by vendors that we work with regularly. Everything from cookies from one of my favorite bakeries to teeth whitening pens as wedding favors will be highlighted.

Check back here all this week and next as we highlight the different ideas that we will be using in the Showcase.

If you are getting married or planning a celebration and are interested in attending, please e-mail RSVP@davidmonn.com for further details.

Holi

2009-03-27T12:33:00.004-04:00

In the spirit of spring (NYC is finally warming up!), and because I love India, I thought I would share an explanation of Holi, the annual Hindu festival that celebrates the arrival of spring. Holi also signifies the triumph of good over evil, romance, and the magnificence of color. The second day of the Holi festival is Dhuleti. To celebrate the season, everyone dresses in white and colored water and powder is thrown. The naturally produced powders are believed to have a medicinal effect helping to prevent illness with the arrival of the new season.

The celebration of Holi marks a time when all past fury and resentment is dissolved and life presents you with an opportunity to begin anew. Many use this celebration to strengthen old relationships and build new ones. Wearing white signifies that Holi is a celebration devoid of discrimination, with no difference of class, caste, race, gender, or religion, serving as a valuable lesson in humanity to all of us.

You Heard It Here First

2009-03-25T11:05:00.005-04:00

If you read my blog often, you know that I have a penchant for anything sugar related. I once blogged about whoopie pies and how I had discovered the perfect whoopie pie in the city.

Well, it seems that the New York Times has caught on to the delicious whoopie pies that true dessert aficionados like myself have known about for years. Last week, Micheline Maynard wrote an article called “Whoopie! Cookie, Pie or Cake, It’s Having Its Moment” that explored the origin of whoopie pies. It was quite interesting to learn about the origins of whoopie pies since I grew up enjoying them. Now all of New York will know what I knew already–that whoopie pies are truly a fantastic and delicious treat.

Go to my previous blog to find out where in NYC you can get the best whoopie pies: http://davidmonn.blogspot.com/2008/03/whoopie_28.html

Pick A Color, Any Color

2009-03-23T16:58:00.004-04:00

Recently, when an employee of mine embarked on the adventure of painting her apartment she struggled to decide on the right colors to use. The most commonly asked question is “What color should I use?” I believe there are more important questions that apply.

When should you use color?

Can the architecture of your apartment or home support colors?

If you have a room with multiple angles, windows with no trim, walls that are shared by two or more rooms, or walls of broken heights, then I believe that these spaces are best suited for shades of white. White will cover a multitude of sins and the clean finish will empower your home decor.

As a child you are taught to color within the lines. When painting our homes, the architecture of the rooms serves as our lines. We have to stay within the bounds of our architecture to illicit the beauty of the scene.

A second thing to remember is that the quality of paint can make the job effortless or dreadfully impossible. I love the fine paints of Europe. The primer and base coats are formulated to support the top color and the primer found in Europe is the best in the world. Although this significantly increases costs, I believe that there are no short cuts in painting. You get what you pay for.

Here is some food for thought:

The average American Household paints approximately every 4 years.

The average European Household paints approximately every 12 years.

A Breath of Fresh Air

2009-03-20T12:13:00.002-04:00

Even though it’s snowing in New York, it’s the first day of Spring! And as I did last year, I wanted to write about one of my favorite non-profit organizations, The Fresh Air Fund. They contacted me a little while ago because they are in need of hosts and donations to keep their programs running and wanted to see if I could help.

If you missed last year’s blog, here’s some information on The Fund:
Each year, The Fresh Air Fund provides free vacations in the country to children from low-income communities. Whether the children are able to get out of the city for a two-week trip to the country at a host family’s house, or stay at one of the Funds’ camps, The Fresh Air Fund sets the stage for unforgettable memories and new experiences. Although the children are from New York City, they stay in 13 different states and Canada, so you don’t have to be from New York to volunteer to host a child. And, if you don’t want to host, you can always give a charitable donation to the organization or volunteer at one of its events.

Every year, they give 10,000 children the opportunity to get away for the summer, gain some new experiences, and most of all, have FUN! If you would like to help children have fun this summer, please visit www.freshair.org.

Tea Time

2009-03-18T11:04:00.003-04:00

I recently heard of Tracy Stern, a tea lover like myself. She is the creative force behind the famous Salonteas and has a tea salon in NYC.

Tracy’s inspiration was based on old French Salons and the most elegant tearooms of the 1600’s. Tea was a social connector for artists, musicians and socialites who would all come together and discuss the topics of the day. Although times have significantly changed, Tracy hoped that style, art and tea would still bring people together.

Salonteas are hand-picked from the finest private estates throughout the world and given cute names such as, “The Fashionable Dandy” and “The Romantic”. Tracy really gives the teas a personality. And her salon in New York City has bright colors and antique accessories that really make the environment unique and fun to be in while enjoying a good cup of tea.

Visit http://salonteas.com/ to get custom-made teas and tea drinking accessories.

Fresh Breath Has Gone To The Dogs

2009-03-16T16:33:00.003-04:00

Recently a really good friend of mine lost her dog during a routine teeth cleaning. It came as a shock to everyone because we, as humans, don’t view a dental visit as something dangerous. As a pet owner, I know that teeth cleanings are vital to Sammy’s health. Studies have shown that the number one health problem in dogs and cats is oral disease. Accumulated bacteria in the mouth can also lead to disease in other organs, such as the heart, liver and kidneys. Small breed dogs should get a dental cleaning done at a young age, around 2 years old. A large dog may not need to get his or her teeth cleaned until their senior years.

When you take your pet to the veterinarian to get his or her teeth cleaned, they will be placed under anesthesia, so make sure to get preliminary blood work done. It is also important to understand the procedure:
1) Your pet will be put under
2) An oral exam is performed
3) The plaque is scaled off and teeth are polished
4) Any lose or broken teeth are extracted
5) Pain medication is administered

However, if your pet doesn’t like the vet, or you are uncomfortable putting your animal under anesthesia, a great alternative to teeth cleaning is Nolvadent Oral Cleansing Solution. This is how I clean Sammy’s teeth and it works great. Nolvadent helps maintain your pet’s oral health and freshens breath too! It can be used as an oral rinse or with a toothbrush to remove food particles and debris from the teeth and gums of your pet.

Whether you decide to take your pet to the vet or clean their teeth at home, make sure you do your research and ask questions!

Joyful Heart Foundation

2009-03-13T11:05:00.004-04:00

I believe life brings people and circumstances together and a friend recently told me about this fantastic organization that believes in just that.

Most of you know Mariska Hargitay as Detective Olivia Benson from Law and Order: Special Victims Unit, but Mariska takes her character and the issues that are brought up on the show very seriously. In 2004, Hargitay started the Joyful Heart Foundation to help survivors of sexual assault heal their minds, bodies and spirits and reclaim their lives. The mission of this charity is to heal, educate and empower survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse and to shed light into the darkness that surrounds these issues.

Joyful Heart focuses on the phrase "stronger together, weaker apart" and their goal "is to let the light, and the life, back in--to banish the darkness and let the healing begin." With the help of crisis centers and safe houses, victims regain their strength both emotionally and physically. Victims become motivated to live their lives as self-determined people and donations and supplies are given to mothers and their children to begin fresh.

While the issue of domestic violence has been in the media recently due to the Rhianna/Chris Brown incident, it is really important to remember that domestic violence happens every day, all over the world, to every kind of person.

When you get a free moment, take a look at the Joyful Heart website: http://www.joyfulheartfoundation.org/index.html.

Via Emilia

2009-03-11T10:52:00.004-04:00

If you happen to be in New York, here is a recommendation for a great Italian restaurant I discovered a few months ago:
Via Emilia, on 21st Street between 5th Avenue and Park Avenue, is a great authentic Italian restaurant. It has a modern look to it and is very appropriate for a twosome or small group to have dinner. The food is fantastic and very affordable.

I would definitely recommend this restaurant to anyone who is in the area. However, be warned that they do not accept reservations and will not take credit cards—it’s cash only at this typical Italian eatery.

http://www.viaemilianyc.net/

Power of the Sun

2009-03-09T11:48:00.000-04:00

I’ve always envisioned a world where anything is possible when you put two different types of people in one room and get them to work together. We are all unique in our own way, but we often forget that combining our differences can often lead to a greater result.

There are many simple pleasures in life that can brighten anyone’s day. This weekend served as a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are free. It was the first glorious, sunny warm weekend of the season, and I did my best to take advantage and spend as much time as possible outdoors. I saw the new energy that the warm weather and the sunshine brought to the faces of everyone I passed as I strolled through the park on a long walk with Sammy.

It was pleasant to see so many people enjoying this long awaited change in temperature. No matter how different we may be, there are still certain things that everyone can appreciate together. I hope that your weekend was as warm as mine.

"One for One"

2009-03-06T09:48:00.004-05:00

A couple of days ago I came across a remarkable shoe company called TOMS. Founded by Blake Mycoskie in May of 2006, TOMS has lived by the motto “one for one.” This means that for every pair of shoes you purchase, TOMS will give a pair of shoes to a child in need.

TOMS began designing their products based off of shoes worn by Argentine peasants. Little did Mycoskie know how popular his shoes would become through word of mouth. Starting at a reasonable $48, TOMS shoes come in a variety of patterns and colors to match anyone’s style.

What I like most about TOMS is that the company was ultimately started to help children in need. TOMS brings about new and different ways to give back. Last year TOMS went to Africa and delivered 50,000 pairs of shoes!

You can purchase your own pair of TOMS and help a child by visiting http://www.tomsshoes.com/.

Martha Stewart's Morning Living and my Affordable Wedding Ideas

2009-03-03T21:36:00.010-05:00

I was invited to talk about affordable and fun ideas for weddings on Martha Stewart's radio show Morning Living this morning. It's on Sirius channel 112. Here are some of my favorite DIY ideas for wedding favors, wedding trends, colors, cakes, centerpieces and affordable design.

Wedding Favors
Miniature Glass Jars from the Container Store (also found online) for $2.49ea. Fill them with your favorite treat and use round label paper ($12.00 for 600 labels) to personalize the jar lid and identify the contents. We used a few different things to fill the jars - mini oatmeal raisin, sour cherry, and potato chip cookies from DoughRayMe.com and personalized Wedding Bell Hersey’s Kisses from Orientaltrading.com (63 pieces for $9.99). We also filled jars with honey--which is a symbol of sweetness and fertility ($2.99 a bear)--and Cadbury Eggs or any candy treat ($3.80 for a 10oz bag).

We also filled a box of my favorite caramels that can be personalized with wedding tags from Good Karmal ($100 minimum purchase required-about $1.00 each piece).

And, my favorite wedding cake cookies from ChocolateGourmet.com (I've used them for many events!) can be boxed and given with personalized tags to each of your guests ($8.00 per box).

I came across great packaging from one of my favorite bakeries - One Girl Cookie. They package their items so well in cute custome film strip photos of the bride and groom.

Another wedding favor idea that is very out-of-the-box is a professional teeth whitening pen that comes in silver. (VIVO WHITE, $14-$20ea)

Here are even more ideas:
-Evergreen Memories Saplings that support the Alzheimer Society and "Green" events all across North America
-Personalized Wedding Golf Balls from http://www.favorideas.com/ ($2.00 each)

Latest Wedding Trends
Fragrance is important- Candles from Daniel Benedict can be personalized with the couple’s names and dates. (Found at http://www.centsandsprays.com/, $10 each - $30 for the set of three - $150 minimum order).

Lunch and early afternoon weddings are a fantastic way to save money and still have a really beautiful event. You can have buffet stations and serve wine with one specialty drink. Booking your venue may be more cost effective too. Another great idea is to have a more intimate guest list for your actual ceremony and later throw a “Wedding Celebration” which is more of a party at a different location for all your friends and family.

Destination Weddings- now is the time- Miami is a great spot now to host a “getaway”. Flights are affordable and places like the new Fontainebleau Hotel have great deals on accommodations.
And- CRUISES! You can find really great bargains now on cruise lines!!!

DIY- do it yourself is bigger than ever before. We did a wedding this summer for a really great family and the bride really wanted to add a few of her own special touches. For her favor, we used the wedding cake cookies from Chocolate Gourmet and she printed out some terrific photographs of her and her fiancé using an online company, Moo.com, that were tied to the favor boxes. In the end, it added a special something to the wedding favors!

New Colors for Weddings
What are the hot colors for weddings? I have hot colors for weddings but here is my own hot trend: an all white wedding. White is the cheapest color to use--you could even use white paper as tablecloths. For centerpieces, keep it chic and simple. If you want colors, lilac and lavender are great for spring and early summer. For the summer, shades of pink and one my favorite classic colors: grass green.

Centerpieces
Flowers in individual bud vases are great. White lilacs in a bud vase would be beautiful and taper candles in different heights would create scale on your table. Also, paper doillies and crêpe paper and carnations are all very beautiful as centerpieces. Keeping the one color philosophy but using different things is very powerful and stylish. Design is key.

Wedding Cake
Old-fashioned cakes from your great grandmother’s recipe box are the trend this year. It will be popular to have delicious cakes this season. I love an old-fashioned spooned frosting cake, which is where you take the back of the spoon and frost the cake in layers.

A Few More of my Favorite Things

I love biodegradable Heart Shaped Wedding puffed rice . ($15.45 a bag)

Golf Wedding Placecard Holders – you can make your own with a mason jar, wheat grass, kabob skewers and mini flags that you print the couple’s monogram on…

And, my favorite gift these days to give is my grandmother's favorite receipes in a personalized cook book. You can do this for the bride and groom and they can later add their own family receipes as well. It's a gift they will treasure and use forever.

This is just a preview of our Wedding Showcase Celebration April 6th in New York City. Stay logged in for more wedding and creative party information!

Birthday Girl

2009-03-03T10:53:00.001-05:00

On Saturday one of my employees, Lisa, celebrated her birthday. A big crowd of family, friends and colleagues turned out to celebrate with her. What made me happy was how many of our vendors we are able to maintain a social relationship with. Practically the whole staff of one of the lighting companies we use was there!

It is always fantastic to get to know people outside of work and Saturday was a great opportunity to do just that. Parties like Lisa’s make us remember why we like to throw parties in the first place.

Check out the picture of Lisa and me with the gift I gave her. Every birthday girl deserves a tiara.

Give and Give

2009-02-27T09:43:00.004-05:00

Last week I loaned a friend some apothecary jars so that she could fill them up with candy for a baby shower. Yesterday, she sent us a great thank you gift—especially for someone with a sweet tooth like mine.

We received a beautiful box of “Good Karmal” caramels, one of the sweets she used to fill the jars. The caramels are fantastic and they come beautifully packaged. What’s more, a portion of each sale is donated to environmental causes, so you are helping the environment as you enjoy a treat.

Each caramel comes wrapped with a vellum ribbon that has different sayings by famous thinkers written on it. One of the chocolate caramels I ate had a quote by Diane Ackerman that read “I don’t want to get to the end of my life and find that I lived just the length of it. I want to have lived the width of it as well.”

Visit http://www.goodkarmal.com/ to learn more or to buy some caramels for yourself or a friend.

The Complex Flavor of India

2009-02-25T11:52:00.003-05:00

Not a single recipe in Rahgavan Iyer’s wonderful book 660 Curries: A Gateway to Indian Cooking contains curry powder, he explains, because authentic Indian curry is a sauce-based dish with endless distinctive variations—nothing like the generic blend of spices found at your supermarket.

He said that Indian food has eight building blocks. They include the five basic tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and “umami,” whose existence was confirmed in 2000, when scientists discovered receptors for it in the human tongue. (Nuts and cheese are among foods considered very “umami,” which has been described as “savory” or “satisfying.”)

The other three elements other than taste that define Indian fare include an astringent element (turmeric), pungent elements (peppercorn, chili, garlic and cloves) and aromatics (cardamom, cumin, coriander and cinnamon).

Thanks to this complex blend, Iyer says, Indian food is the world’s most sophisticated cuisine. I think he makes a good argument.

Photos for a Lifetime

2009-02-23T15:40:00.010-05:00

As I mentioned a couple of weeks ago, I recently went through a bunch of things I’d had in storage for years. It was really cathartic to go through all of my old belongings and relive many memories.

I found lots of pictures that were just stuffed in boxes among other things.

I believe that photos allow us to relive our past and share it with loved ones. Photo albums are a great way of cataloging your life’s adventures and cherishing your fondest memories.

A more personalized method of organizing your photos is by designing photo books. I have been making photo books of all of my events using iPhoto on my Macintosh. This quick and easy program allows me to personalize my photos and illustrate a story with a sophisticated, yet modern style.

For those of you who may want some help organizing your memories or would like to create a great gift for a loved one, maybe a professional organizer is the answer. Ali Tenenbaum is a good friend who specializes in organizing your photographs by creating custom Albums and Scrapbooks.

Please visit her website at www.AliTenenbaum.com.

Anne Frank

2009-02-20T09:51:00.000-05:00

I came across quite an inspirational quote from Anne Frank the other day. She once said that, “No one has ever become poor by giving.” I thought it was a sentiment worth sharing, especially given the economic circumstances we are all finding ourselves in these days.

The point of the “Give Back” section of this blog is to not only concentrate on monetary donations, but on giving in general—whether that helps your spirit, loved ones, the environment, etc. So, take a moment today to reflect on Anne’s quote and think of how you can “give back” to yourself and others without necessarily spending money.

Whoops!!!

2009-02-19T14:32:00.002-05:00

On my February 3rd blog, I talked about a wonderful gift that I received from a very talented woman. Accidentally, I misspelled her name which might have made it more difficult for you to find her.

You can check out Ginny Schumacher's designs at www.sophisticateddog.com

Sorry about that, Ginny!

An Innovative Way to Use a Lemon

2009-02-18T11:24:00.003-05:00

Last week we had a staff breakfast in the office. We called the Brooklyn Bagel Company to deliver bagels, cream cheese and lox – a typical New York City breakfast. When the food arrived, we discovered that they had come up with the most innovative way to present the capers on the lox platter: they had put them in a hollowed-out lemon.

It was really a great idea, so I decided I had to share it with you.

Check out the picture below:

Do you have any other cool food presentation ideas you'd like to share? Please comment.

Two Heads Are Better Than One

2009-02-16T10:19:00.002-05:00

Today I thought I’d blog about the power of two. My jewelry designer friend Laurence has teamed up with the creative director of Guerlain, Olivier (another friend of mine), to produce a magnificent lipstick line called Rouge G by Guerlain. It is absolutely the sexiest lipstick I’ve seen. Laurence designed the case and Olivier designed the colors that are encased within. It is a gorgeous thing—and all the online reviews are saying the lipstick is supposed to be revolutionary.

Just goes to show you what great things can be created when two minds come together. I guess the old saying is true…

Read more about this lipstick at http://www.temptalia.com/guerlain-to-launch-rouge-g-de-guerlain-lipstick

Give Love

2009-02-13T10:01:00.004-05:00

I was going through some personal files on Wednesday and I came across one of my mother’s most prized collections. Stuffed in a bag hidden away in an empty photo album was my mother’s collection of Valentines from her days as a school child to her days as a mother and aunt. How perfect that I found them a couple of days before the 14th!

The Valentines really span decades and showcase the craftsmanship and quality of paper goods of these times. They are really amazing and a real joy to look through.

These days, it’s hard to come by such special Valentines, but make sure to let the people in your life know how much you love them. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Spanish Peanuts

2009-02-11T17:25:00.001-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I decided to get away from the city and go on a little vacation to the Caribbean. While I was there, I had a great snack of Spanish peanuts that were different from the usual peanuts I eat. They were very small and quite tasty—definitely the best peanut variety I’ve tried. If you’re ever at a gourmet grocer, see if you can find tiny Spanish peanuts. They are definitely a fabulous snack!

And, did you know that peanuts aren’t actually a nut? They are a legume since they grow on vines or stalks.

Recycled Products

2009-02-09T14:09:00.003-05:00

Here at David Monn, LLC we always strive to recycle as well as reinvent “used” ideas. For a kids’ party a few years back I used an artist’s soda can figures as centerpieces.

And recently, while coming up with party ideas for a very eco-friendly client, we stumbled across a pretty cool company. Developed by two Princeton students in 2001, Terracycle makes recycled products from everyday waste. They sell bags and backpacks, natural cleaners and degreasers, and even fertilizers. Better than that, they make it easy to take your trash—so long as you adhere to the rules of what they’re looking for. They have all sorts of programs that strive to “eliminate the idea of waste”.

Check out their website (terracycle.net) and read more about their views and how you can set-up a recycling collection site.

Fly Right and Donate

2009-02-06T09:47:00.005-05:00

Are you like me and have tons of frequent flyer miles that you don’t use? Donate them to a worthwhile cause!

A lot of people don’t know that many charities in the United States accept donated airline miles so that they can conduct their business more easily.

While different airlines have different rules about which charities you can donate miles to and how, it’s usually pretty easy and can be done by making a phone call, sending an e-mail, or filling out a simple online form. For instance, Delta will let you donate miles to the American Cancer Society, the American Red Cross, Canine Assistants, Habitat for Humanity, and Unicef (as well as many others) by sending a quick e-mail.

While the donations are not usually tax deductible, if your miles are about to expire or you simply have too many, you might as well donate them and support a worthy cause – it costs you nothing!

For more information from major airlines, go to the links below:

Delta - https://www.delta.com/skymiles/use_miles/donate_miles/index.jsp
United - http://www.united.com/page/article/0,,1363,00.html
US Airways - http://www.usairways.com/awa/content/dividendmiles/programdetails/purchasemiles/donatemilesform.aspx
Continental Airlines - http://www.continental.com/web/en-US/apps/onepass/donate/donateMiles.aspx
American Airlines - http://www.aa.com/aa/i18nForward.do?p=/AAdvantage/partners/charities/milesToKids.jsp

The Stinking Rose is an Aphrodisiac?

2009-02-04T11:00:00.005-05:00

In preparation for Valentine’s Day, I thought it would be fun to list foods that have aphrodisiacal properties. Some of the foods are not surprising (like the tried and true chocolate), but others are unexpected (garlic anyone?).

If you’re preparing a special dinner for your significant other on the 14th, make sure to incorporate some of these ingredients into your cooking!

Aniseed
Asparagus
Almond
Arugula
Asafetida
Avocado
Bananas
Sweet Basil
Broccoli Rabe
Chocolate
Carrots
Coriander
Fennel
Figs
Garlic
Ginger
Honey
Licorice
Mustard
Nutmeg
Oysters
Pine Nuts
Pineapple
Raspberries
Strawberries
Truffles
Vanilla
Wine

Go to www.gourmetsleuth.com/aphrodis_foods.htm to read more about these foods. And make sure to let us know what recipes you like that involve some of these ingredients!

Sammy's New Coat

2009-02-03T12:10:00.008-05:00

As a holiday present I received the most amazing gift from one of my fans and I thought it was so wonderful I had to blog about it. Ginny Shumacher made Sammy a wonderful suit coat that was so perfect for him! Made of brown and white plaid, it had everything from a pocket square to a matching leash and collar. It was even embroidered with Sammy's name! And, Ginny made me a fringed scarf so that I can match with Sammy when we're out on our walks through the city.

I recently blogged about how to care for your pets in the winter, and this coat is a great addition to Sammy's cold weather closet. When Sammy needs to go out in the cold for his daily walks, he'll be walking down the streets in style. Thanks Ginny!

We Are One Concert

2009-01-30T15:50:00.003-05:00

Because I missed the initial airing of the “We are One Concert” for the inauguration, I was happy to find it on HBO On Demand last night. While the performances were amazing there were two parts that really struck me.

The first was a reading of JFK’s speech he made to Amherst College about the importance of the arts. The second was the performance of Marion Davies.

If you missed the original airing of the concert, check it out On Demand. It’s definitely not one to miss!

The Amazing Cocoa Bean

2009-01-28T09:10:00.012-05:00

While out to dinner with a good friend this past weekend, I learned something new about a food I am very familiar with; the cocoa bean. Turns out, the quality and taste of chocolate has everything to do with where the bean was grown. Just as grapes become Cabernets or Pinot Noirs depending on the conditions of the exact hillside on which they grow, the origin of a specific cocoa bean determines the type of chocolate it will become. I found all of this so interesting I thought it would be great to share it with my readers!

Both grapes and cocoa beans are greatly impacted by factors like climate and soil, as well as quantities of sunlight and rain. Cocoa beans are generally catagorized into three types: Forastero (accounting for 85% of the world's cocoa), Trinitario (about 10%), and Criollo (less than 5%). As with most things, the rarer the better, and Criollo beans are considered to make the finest, most expensive chocolate in the world.

Like wine connoisseurs, chocolate aficionados pay attention to aroma, taste and look. The flavor of Criollo is described as delicate yet complex, low in classic chocolate flavor, but rich in "secondary" notes of long duration, with a reddish coloring.

The largest areas of cocoa bean growth

Next time you bite into a piece of chocolate, take a moment to reflect on one of nature's great marvels: the amazing cocoa bean!

What is your favorite place to get chocolate? Please leave a comment.

A Good Investment

2009-01-26T11:41:00.004-05:00

This past weekend I was able to attend the Antique shows and I was inspired and reminded about how wonderful the art of collecting antiques can be. This economy provides an great buyers market. If you have a little money to spend I would definitely suggest investing in antiques. Instead of buying furniture pieces that will fall apart within a year why not invest in a piece that has been proven to last a lifetime. As a friend once said to me "if you can't afford good art, start with good furniture."

The 55th Annual Winter Antiques Show
Jan. 23 - Feb. 1, 2009
Park Avenue Armory
Park Avenue at 67th Street
New York City
Open Daily12 noon - 8 p.m.
Except: Sundays & Thursday12 noon - 6 p.m.
$20 Admission

What is your favorite antique you own? Please leave a comment!

Keeping Your Pet Safe on Cold Winter Days

2009-01-26T09:07:00.005-05:00

While it is important for us to bundle up in the winter, it is even more important that we keep our pets safe during the cold winter months. Here are a few suggestions that will help make sure your pet has a healthy and safe winter.

- No matter what the temperature is, windchill can always harm a pet and it is best to keep them indoors as much as possible.

- However, if you have a pet that does spend most of its time outdoors they need much more food and water because keeping warm depletes their energy faster.

- Many pets require a little bit more food to maintain a healthy weight and stay warm. Be sure to keep a close eye on your pets weight, making sure that it maintains healthy and does not go too high or low.

- Older pets are more susceptible to being harmed by the cold. So if you have a senior dog or cat keep a closer eye on their weight and food intake.

- Be careful of the salt and other chemicals that are used to melt snow which can irritate the pads of your pets feet. When they come in from a walk be sure to wash their feet immediately, before they are able to lick their feet and ingest the chemicals.

- Also watch your pets around Anti-freeze it has a sweet taste to pets but is a deadly poison. Be sure to store anti-freeze in a cabinet that is out of reach of children and pets.

How do you protect your pet in the winter? Please leave a comment.

The Fast Track to Healthy Eating

2009-01-21T09:15:00.009-05:00

Today's blog is not about food per say, but rather the lack of food I've had this week! My best friends and I are doing a five day cleanse together and... today is day three. I agreed to take part to wean myself off the large amount of sweets I consume.

The cleanse we chose is the Organic Avenue Five Day LOVEdeep fast. Instead of eating solid foods, every day we drink a series of seven "elixirs," each providing a different nutrient. The fast is designed to drench your body with vital nutrients while giving it a break from digestion. The best part? Each day, Organic Avenue delivers your drinks in this chic burlap bag, and takes the previous day's bottles to be recycled!

I have to say it has been extremely hard giving up coffee but I am feeling energized and healthy! Only time will tell if it ends up helping curb my sugar habit. I'll let you know...

Have you ever done a fast? Please share your stories!

My Trip to the Met

2009-01-19T10:09:00.009-05:00

To escape the cold this weekend I headed to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and spent about 5 hours wandering through their amazing new exhibits. The exhibit that was the most inspiring to me was The Philippe de Montebello: Curators Celebrate Three Decades of Acquisitions. The exhibition is considered a parting gift to the director that helped acquire 84,000 works while he was with the museum.

There were two furniture pieces that stood out to me above everything else. The first was a Bureau Brise writing desk that is one of the only surviving pieces commissioned for the personal use of Louis XIV. It is part of a pair and the other is at the Louver in Paris. It is so amazing to see something and think that Louis XIV once used this desk.

The second piece was a Tula table made almost completely of steel. What is so interesting about this table is that Tula was a gun manufacturing company until Katherine the Great summoned them to make furniture instead of guns. This table specifically is made of mostly steel but looks as though it is made of diamonds. The craftsmanship and design of this table is so breathtaking to me!

If you get a chance you should go see this exhibit and be inspired! If you do not live in New York City but you still want to experience the exhibit click here to look at the website.

What inspires you? Please leave a comment.

One Man's Trash...

2009-01-16T14:03:00.011-05:00

As I am cleaning out my warehouse I have been finding tons of supplies and decor elements (like boxes and boxes of pine cones!) left over from past events. Instead of leaving these things collecting dust in my warehouse we have decided to donate them to a wonderful organization called Materials for the Arts, a program of the NYC Dept. of Cultural Affairs. Since 1978 this amazing organization has been donating materials to struggling artists and public schools throughout the New York City area. For those of you who know about my charity, ArtFunD, you know that I am extremely passionate about getting art programs back into public schools. Material for the Arts is helping increase the accessibility of art education one paint can at a time!

So, the next time you clean out your closets or garage keep an eye out for things you can donate to Materials for the Arts!

The paint room in the Material for the Arts warehouse

The Material for the Arts Warehouse

Check out their website to find out how you can donate or volunteer!
http://www.mfta.org/

Travel Fast, Eat Light

2009-01-14T09:46:00.007-05:00

Last week, while on a business trip, I realized something about our airports: ALL of the food is carbohydrates or sugar! While waiting for yet another delayed plane I was looking for something healthy to eat. Hidden behind the Cinnabons and Sabarro pizza all I was able to find was a soggy sandwich and a browning salad! I love sweets just as much as anyone else (maybe a bit more) but the last thing I want before boarding a plane is to be loaded with sugar and bloated from carbohydrates!

My suggestion for staying away from the unhealty food that controls the airport... eat a full meal before you leave home. And, if you know you have a layover or there is a possibility for a delay throw a few heatly snacks in your bag! As much as the smells permiate the air try to aviod that cinnabon and pizza because eventhough they may seem like a good idea at the time, you will regret it once you get on the plane!

What are your suggestions for getting around the tempting unhealthy airport food? Please leave a comment!

A Look Back at 2008

2009-01-09T09:18:00.017-05:00

Now that we are on to 2009, I thought it would be nice to take a look back at all of the amazing things we accomplished here at David Monn, LLC in 2008. With over 100 events it is hard to show pictures of each, so here are a few of the highlights!

Hug a Mug

2009-01-07T09:02:00.005-05:00

One of my favorite ways to warm up during the dreary winter months is a warm cup of hot chocolate. Something about the smell and taste is so comforting and instantly warming.

Max Brenner, a man who shares my love for sweets, is the owner of an ingenious chain of restaurants with a menu comprised of nothing but chocolate. With two locations in New York City I am lucky to be able to stop in on a cold winter day and get my fix of hot chocolate, plus anything else I can think of made of chocolate. Not only does his hot chocolate cure my craving but he has developed the “hug mug”, a mug that is the perfect shape for cupping both of your hands around it. He even has the mug for sale in his “chocolate shop” located in his restaurant and online.

If you are in New York you must check out this fun spot; if not, don't worry you can find a lot of his products at his online store, just click here.

Hug Mug - $8.90

Pucker Up and Moisturize

2009-01-05T09:06:00.005-05:00

One of the harshest effects of the winter season is not always on our cars or the roads but on our skin, more specifically our lips!

Lips are an extremely sensitive area on our bodies and, because they are used constantly, they become irritated quickly. Most people that I know say that they simply use chap-stick or lip stick to fix their dry lips. This plan is probably the easiest routine for helping moisturize your lips, however, this only covers up the problem.

In order to really help your lips, exfoliate your lips before applying a lip gloss. After exfoliation, the next step is finding a great gloss for protection. Sally Hershberger has come up with both a refinisher and repair cream for helping ones lips. Another product that is great at fighting off the painfully dried lips is Rosebud Salve.

Don’t leave your lips out to dry this winter!

Sally Hershberger Products
425 West 14th Street
3rd Floor
New York, NY 10014
Lip Refinisher-$12
Lip Repair-$12

Rosebud Salve
Sephora - $6

What is your favorite lip product? Please leave a comment!

Help of Heifer

2009-01-02T14:24:00.003-05:00

If you are interested in giving a gift that can effect lives around the globe this New Year you may want to consider Heifer International giving. Introduced to Heifer by a member of my staff, I’ve become extremely interested in Heifer’s initiatives around the world.

Heifer has created a program where you may provide struggling families with “gift animals” such as sheep, cow, llama, water buffalo, and goat. By giving the gift of a water buffalo, for example, families are provided with milk for food, help plowing fields, they are able to rent the buffalo to neighbors to earn money, and carry heavy loads to the market.

Another great children’s gift idea that has been provided by the help of Heifer International is a book called Beatrice’s Goat, written by Beatrice Biira. Heifer International gave the Biira family a goat when Beatrice was young. Growing up in a small village in Uganda, the Biira’s were able to earn enough money from the goat to give Beatrice the opportunity to come to America to attend college.

What better way to give life to a family than through Heifer International, and while you give a gift you can teach your children about making a difference in someone’s life through Beatrice’s Goat.

Heifer International

www.heifer.org

Beatrice's Goat

Barnes and Noble - $17.99

Pop Champagne, Not Your Eardrums!

2008-12-29T16:36:00.004-05:00

One of my least favorite things concerning New Year's Eve is the hype that is associated with the evening. Going to Times Square with millions of people in the crowd, attending parties where there is no room to walk or talk... these are all too crazy for my idea of the perfect New Year's Eve celebration.

My recommendation for an amazing evening to celebrate the coming of 2009 is to have a small dinner party with your closest friends early in the evening. Enjoy the company and celebrate the end of an amazing year and the coming of another one. Send your guests home around 10:30 PM, as they walk out the door present them each with a gift basket full of New Year essentials:

- comfy slippers

- soft blanket

- champagne

- champagne glasses

- a great movie

Sending friends home to cuddle up with a great movie before the strike of midnight is the perfect gift. Is there any place you would rather be than your sofa, with a warm blanket and a loved one ringing in the New Year?

What is your idea of the perfect New Years Eve? Please leave a comment!

New Year for You!

2008-12-27T00:06:00.004-05:00

The idea of dedicating yourself to the "perfect" New Year's Resolution always seems quite impossible, because as the New Year begins real life seems to sweep away your dedication to your resolution. One thing I've realized when entering a New Year, is that you cannot affect your life or anyone else's, for that matter, unless you help yourself first!

So, as we approach the New Year, and begin to ponder over the resolution of this season, please remember to first... do something for yourself!

Visions of Sugar Plums

2008-12-24T09:12:00.008-05:00

One of my favorite things about the holidays are the abundance of sweets that are around! A great activity to do with your children on this Christmas Eve is make sweets for Santa. Below you will find two of my favorite recipes for Sugar Plums and Fresh Ginger Cookies, two very seasonal and delicious treats that the man in the red suit will be sure to enjoy!

Sugar plums

Making sugar plums is a perfect holiday project for kids: It takes a bit of time, the work’s a trifle sticky, and it requires neither cooking nor sharp utensils. Sugar plums can be stored in an airtight container with wax paper between the layers, or they can be wrapped in aluminum foil, then brightly colored tissue paper.

1 (24-ounce) container pitted prunes
4 ounces whole blanched almonds
1 cup sweetened flaked coconut (4 ounces)
1/4 cup of sugar

Stuff each prune with an almond, molding fruit around nut into a nice plum shape. In a small bowl, toss coconut and sugar. Roll stuffed prunes in mixture. Store in an airtight container or wrap some or all individually.

Fresh Ginger Cookies

Prep: 5 minutes

Chill: 1 hour

Bake: 8 to 10 minutes

Makes: about 60

1.5 sticks (6 ounces) butter, softened
1 cup sugar1 cup unsulphured molasses
2 eggs
4.5 cups flour
2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
2 teaspoons baking soda
1.5 teaspoons cinnamon1 teaspoon salt

1. In a large bowl, beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Blend in molasses. Add eggs on at a time, beating well after each addition. Add flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon and salt, stirring until well combined. Cover and refrigerate one hour.

2. Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease cookie sheets. Roll dough into 1.5 inch balls and place 1 inch apart on cookie sheets. Flatten balls slightly with bottom of glass or palm of your hand.

3. Bake 8-10 minutes. Remove racks and let cool.

What is your favorite Christmas Cookie recipe? Please leave a comment!

Jingle All the Way

2008-12-22T09:23:00.004-05:00

One of the great things about our high-speed lifestyle that we are quickly becoming accustomed to is the fact that one can do just about everything with the help of the internet. During the holidays, this may seem like a negative characteristic of our culture, however, we can also use it to increase the holiday spirit with friends and family.

The fun of caroling is slowly losing its touch as we become busier and a little less traditional. This year, I challenge everyone to use your computer savvy skills to download carols! Searching for carols on the internet is not only easy, but it is a way to bring back the tradition of caroling to our homes. Whether you simply invite friends over to sing or go door to door in your neighborhood, sharing the songs that you learn is a great way to get you ready for Christmas.

Another great holiday search is for the original versions of The Night Before Christmas and A Christmas Carol. Don’t lose the traditions of song and stories this holiday.

Carols

The Night Before Christmas

A Christmas Carol

David Monn on Good Morning America Friday, December 19

2008-12-18T17:20:00.010-05:00

This morning I was on Good Morning America giving last-minute affordable tips for holiday decorating. Below is a re-cap of some major points from the segment.

I want to give the basic tools I use for every event so you can create an special experience for your guests this holiday season. It is not about how much money you have, it is about how resourceful you are with it. To set the stage you need to engage the senses. The most important is your sense of smell. Always have a fragrance in your hall to greet your guests. Music is the second most important thing. Choose appropriate songs to create the mood. Now, here are my secrets to a great buffet table.

Wintergreen Dinner Buffet

Utilize the power that comes with one element and multiply, and use one accent color. Scale is also very important.

I've layered a white burlap lattice work pattern over this green felt table cloth. By simply pulling the threads from all corners you can create a cut work design. We also made 12 burlap napkins that are 24x24. We first fringed the napkin edges about 1 3/4". To create the inside border we used a ruler and measured 1 1/2" from the edge and pulled one inch worth of threads.

Creating levels for a buffet creates interest. As a simple guideline, there should be no dish higher than your elbow when you are standing. To created these buffet stands use floral foam and boxwood. We used about three bricks for the largest stand for food.

Winter Wonderland Dessert Buffet

I love desserts, in fact, I learned to ski to get to a piece of cake. This is my fantasy all white dessert table. Its the easiest table to create especially if you are short on time!

It's very simple; using the power of one main color-white- create a winter wonderland. The table cloth is quilt batting with two white strand of Christmas lights under it. This is an old cut up birch log we used as the food levels. If you don't have a log you can also cover cardboard boxes. White boas from the dollar store and fake snow from Kmart complete the look.

We sprayed paper snowflakes with glitter to add scale and balance for the dessert table.

Send guests home with leftovers in over-sized mason jars tied with ribbon.

My favorite cookie recipe

Horn Symphony (a/k/a Lady Locks)
From the kitchen of Marcia Shertzer

(Makes about 70 cookies)

2 – 8 oz. pkgs. cream cheese
½ lb. margarine
½ lb. butter
4 c. flour

Mix all together, cover and refrigerate overnight. Work with small batches in cool place. Roll dough on powdered sugar. Cut into strips about 10” long by ¾” wide. Wrap around lady lock form (or round wooden clothes pin) making sure to overlap dough. Bake on greased cookie sheet at 375 degrees for 10-15 minutes. Pull off form while still warm. Cool cookies before filling.

Filling:

4 c. powdered sugar 1 c. Crisco
4 Tbsp. butter 4 Tbsp. flour
6 Tbsp. half and half 2 egg whites
2 tsp. vanilla extract

Mix all together until smooth. You can substitute almond or orange extract for vanilla for a different taste.

Click here to watch the segment!

Happy Holidays!

Paper Perfection

2008-12-17T17:21:00.004-05:00

My favorite holiday centerpiece is my home-baked ham. Having a delicious, moist ham fills not only your stomach, but also your house with the aroma of warmth and the feeling of celebration.

The rule that I always live by in cooking the perfect ham is to place it tightly in a paper bag. This keeps in the delicious juices necessary for a soft ham. And considering ham is a dish that is also enjoyed for the days following the holidays, using a paper bag allows the meat to excite your taste buds even after it has cooled!

Saying Thank You In Your Own Way

2008-12-15T09:12:00.007-05:00

After attending so many events and worrying about sending a thank you note or gift I’ve finally found a way to thank my friends for their hospitality without the stress of sending something different each time. Creating a signature gift to use for showing thanks is the perfect solution.

What I have chosen to create that has been perfect for every form of thanks I need is a clear plastic box of mint malted milk balls! Tied with brown ribbon and topped with a personalized note, this delicious treat is chic, fun, and universal.

Think of something that you can send over and over again that says something about your personality. Showing your thanks while leaving your personalized mark of creativity is a gift that keeps on giving.

Mint Malted Milk Balls
Nutsonline.com

Clear Box

$.39-$3.19

The Container Store

Molding Futures Out of Clay

2008-12-12T10:03:00.005-05:00

The goal of my ArtFund is to bring general art classes and knowledge back into public schools because I feel that every child is an artist in some shape or form. Underprivileged youth in New York City are given this opportunity through a non-profit organization called Bodanna.

Located on Broome Street, Bodanna has internships, apprenticeships, and classes that aim in assisting youth in starting successful lives throughout NYC. While participating in the apprenticeships, the students learn to design and create amazing pottery which is then sold in their studio.

By visiting the studio or shopping online you can buy presents for the holidays while supporting this great foundation. Since the holidays are a time to celebrate with your family and friends at home, your new handcrafted servingware will be the talk of your party! This December, give the gift of Bodanna pottery and help out a great organization as well.

Bodanna Studio & Gallery
376 Broome Street
(Between Mulberry and Mott)
New York, NY 10013
212.388.0078

http://www.bodanna.org/

What is your favorite gift that gives back? Please leave a comment.

Holiday Drop-Ins

2008-12-10T09:05:00.003-05:00

The holiday season is famous for unexpected drop-ins by friends and family. It is always a horrible feeling to know that you are not prepared to host friends. In order to avoid panic attacks and make you look like you’re always expectant of the unexpected I have included some quick last minute recipes perfect for these friendly visits!

20 Minute Artichoke Dip
1 C. Mayonnaise
1 C. Parmesan Cheese
1 can Artichoke Hearts, diced
Pinch of Garlic Powder to taste
Mix all ingredients and place in casserole dish.
Cook at 350° for 20 minutes (until golden brown).
Serve hot with a freshly sliced baguette or crackers.

Getting fancy with Bacon
Cut slab of bacon into ½ inch chunks. Cook on skillet or broiler until crispy. Skewer with grape tomato.
Or
Cut just ripe pears in ½ inch cubes. Sprinkle with salt, sugar and cayenne. Spear with bacon.

Edamame
Boil fresh or frozen edamame in pods for approx. 3-5 minutes.
Sprinkle with coarse salt.

And if you are really out of time buy pre-made finger foods and just brush them with truffle oil to dress them up!

Have more quick appetizers? Let us know!

Holiday Hints for the Perfect Tree

2008-12-08T09:47:00.003-05:00

It is always difficult weeding out the good tips from the bad tips when picking, transporting, and decorating your Christmas tree. Below are some of the best “what you should know” helpful hints that I have followed over the years that have brought me long lasting, beautiful Christmas trees!

1. Shake the tree before purchasing to make sure it is not brittle. If green needles fall off, place the tree back on the rack and pick another!

2. Make sure the tree you choose isn’t too large for your room. It will save you from cutting the tree at home and money.

3. Shake off old needles from the tree before taking it home. Don’t bring the mess home with you.

4. If you have a long drive home, wrap the tree before driving away, and remember to have the stump facing forward on the car to protect the branches.

5. If you can’t bring the tree into the house right away, make sure to store it out of the sun and put it in a bucket of water to prevent it from drying.

6. To allow for optimal water uptake, cut a disk of about .5-1 inch off of the trunk. If the tree is left without water for an extended period, making a fresh cut would improve the health of the tree.

7. Cold water is best for the tree, and do not add any chemicals to the water. The purer the water, the better!

8. Keep the tree away from heat sources like a fireplace or heating vent.

9. Be aware of who is living near the tree. If you have children, make sure there are no fragile ornaments near the bottom (this also applies for pets!).

10. And please, always remember to turn off the lights before leaving the house. The only fire you need during the holidays is enjoyed best within the fireplace!

What are your Christmas tree hints?? Please leave a comment.

Don't Let the Cold Give You a Cold!

2008-12-05T09:20:00.002-05:00

The coming of snow may be beautiful, our houses may look warm and spectacular, and we may cook wonderful holiday dishes that can only be enjoyed during the winter months. However, the coming of winter and the change of seasons also means the welcoming of the seasonal cold and flu.

The Vermont Cure can be all of our saving graces this winter as we aim to avoid being sick during this busy time. Made from all household staples, you can create for your friends and family the perfect remedy for the common cold. Do not succumb to the sniffles and coughs while you can be decorating, cooking, and mingling!

Vermont Cure
7 table spoons of white cider vinegar
3 table spoons of honey
1 lemon

Steeping hot water

The Cookie Artisan

2008-12-02T16:27:00.010-05:00

Everyday I am always on the look out for meeting new people, and coming across people that love doing what they do is thrilling! One woman who I have worked with for a number of events who has a passion for her talents is Maryann Rollins, The Cookie Artisan.

Creating her desirable desserts from her own kitchen, Maryann started her career making Jack-o-lantern cookies for her daughter’s Halloween party. After sharing her beautiful treats with her guests, her friends began asking her to create cookies for their parties and events. Maryann states, “I love nothing more than helping make someone's party extra special by creating a custom platter of cookies that represents their theme and color palate as well as showcasing the personality of the host or guest of honor.”

Maryann states that she finds inspiration in everything around her, from a color scheme on wrapping paper or a design in a magazine. She states that the two criteria for creating the best party cookies are to have a delicious recipe and use great cookie cutters. Her recommended places to find cookie cutters are listed below.

Artists like Maryann are inspiring because they take an ordinary talent, like baking cookies, and make it extraordinary and new. Whether you are baking, decorating, or working, don’t forget to create your own twist with your talents. Nothing needs to be ordinary when there are so many opportunities to make something amazing!

Maryann Rollins
The Cookie Artisan
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Rollinssm@earthlink.net

Find the Best Cookie Cutters at:

Kitchengifts.com

Coppergifts.com

Entertaining on a budget with Martha Stewart Radio today!

2008-12-01T13:38:00.006-05:00

I will be on Martha Stewart Radio this afternoon giving tips on how to inspire and entertain this holiday season on a budget.

My holiday gift this year will be a cheese selection from Artisanal. Cheese makes a great hostess gift and is a fun way to revisit fondue parties. I suggest serving a full cheese course instead of your traditional salad or soup. You can log on to Artisanal Cheese Company to see their Cheese Clock, a guide to serving cheese. I partner them with macerated fruits, which are easy to cook and smell amazing. Macerated desserts are simply fruit steeped in a flavored sugar syrup, wine, liquor, vinegar or citrus juice, usually for a couple of hours or overnight. During the process, the fruit becomes slightly softer, its flavor infused with spices, juices or wine.

Here are the recipes:

Curry’d Quince:

2 Quince
2 Cups White Wine (ny Dry White)
2 Tsp. Madras Curry Powder
2 Tsp. Honey
5-6 Pods Cardamom
3-4 Whole Clove
1/4 Tsp. Ginger
1 Tbsp. Lemon Juice
A Pinch of Salt
Lime Zest

Procedure:
- Peel and core the quince (Cut in half if you wish).
- Mix all the ingredients, except the quince, in a deep pot and bring to a boil.
- Add the quince to the mixture and bring the stove to a low flame.
- Cover the pot with Parchment Paper with a small hole in the middle.
- Cook the quince until soft and impressionble to the touch.
- Remove the quince and reduce the mixture further.

To Serve:
Slice the quince and drizzle with the reduced mixture.

Cheese Pairing:
Affidelice

Spicy Delicious:

2 Delicious Golden Apples
2 Cups Apple Juice
2 Cups Calvados
1/2 Tsp. Cayenne Peppers
2 Tsp. Pink Peppercorn
2 Tbsp. Honey
1/4 Tsp. Tabasco
1/4 Tsp. Worcestershire Sauce
3-4 Sprigs of Mint Leaf
A Pinch of Salt

Procedure:
- Peel and core the apples (Cut in half if you wish).
- Mix all the ingredients, except the apples, in a deep pot and bring to a boil.
- Add the apples to the mixture and bring the stove to a low flame.
- Cover the pot with Parchment Paper with a small hole in the middle.
- Cook the apples until soft and impressionble to the touch.
- Remove the apples and reduce the mixture further.

To Serve:
Slice the apples and drizzle with the reduced mixture.

Cheese Pairing:
Hoch y Brig

Chocolate Comice Pear:

2 Comice Pears
2 Cups Port Wine
2 Cups Red Wine
1/2 Cup Goji Juice
1/2 Tsp. Chinese 5 Spice Powder
1/4 Cup Sugar
2 Tsp. Coriander Seeds
1 Tsp. Chocolate Powder

Procedure:
- Peel and core the pears (Cut in half if you wish).
- Mix all the ingredients, except the pears, in a deep pot and bring to a boil.
- Add the pears to the mixture and bring the stove to a low flame.
- Cover the pot with Parchment Paper with a small hole in the middle.
- Cook the pears until soft and impressionable to the touch.
- Remove the pears and reduce the mixture further.

To Serve:
Slice the pears and drizzle with the reduced mixture.

Cheese Pairing:
Barley Buzzed

Balsamic Red Plum:

4 Red Plums
2 Cups Balsamic Vinegar
2 Tbsp. Red Onion
1/2 Cup Whiskey

Procedure:
- Cut each plum in two and remove pit.
- Mix all the ingredients, except the plums, in a deep pot and bring to a boil.
- Add the plums to the mixture and bring the stove to a low flame.
- Cover the pot with Parchment Paper with a small hole in the middle.
- Cook the plums until soft and impressionable to the touch.
- Remove the plums and reduce the mixture further.

To Serve:
Slice the plums and drizzle with the reduced mixture.

Cheese Pairing:
Rouge River Bleu Cheese

The smell of these fruits creates an enticing aroma in your home, but you can also achieve a holiday smell with a candle such as Pine and Germanium from Kmart, Christian Tortu's Forest Candle, or Bath and Body Works' Winter Candle. I believe the key to a great party is to properly engage the senses, starting with your sense of smell.

Music for the holidays is key. I have a variety of favorites that make any party great. Some of my favorites are Andrea Bocelli and Jim Brickman.

Here are my suggestions for a holiday play list:

Carol of the Bells - George Winston
Shades of White - Jim Brickman
Linus & Lucy - Vince Guaraldi Trio
Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow - Beegie Adair
Christmas - Sarajevo 12/24 (Instrumental)
Christmas Waltz - Oscar Peterson
The Nutcracker, Op. 71 Overture - Orchestra of the Kirov Opera
The Nutcracker, Op. 71 No. 2 March - Orchestra of the Kirov Opera
Joy - George Winston
White Christmas - John Tesh
Winter's Twilight - Michael Gettel
And Winter Came - Enya
Peace - Norah Jones
Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas - Kenny G
Winter Song - Sara Bareilles & Ingrid Michaelson
Thankful - Josh Groban
Happy Xmas (War Is Over) - Sarah McLachlan
The Prayer - Andrea Bocelli & Celine Dion
River - Sarah McLachlan
Silent Night - Il Divo
Christmas in the City - Marvin Gaye
White Christmas (1947 Single) - Bing Crosby
Winter Wonderland - Tony Bennett
Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow - Michael Buble
What Are You Doing New Year's Eve? - Diana Krall
A Joyous Song - Boyz II Men
This Time of Year - Ray Charles
Wonderful Christmastime - Paul McCartney
Sleigh Ride - Ella Fitzgerald
Baby It's Cold Outside - Dean Martin
My Favorite Things - Outkast

Listen in and let me know what you think!

"We're Going to Party Like It's 1929" New York Times Article Reciepes

2008-11-30T17:38:00.014-05:00

Below are the recipe's from this Sunday's New York Times article by Alex Williams "Holiday's Downsized: We're Going to Party Like It's 1929"

I served my favorite twice baked potato with toppings: Three Bean Chili, Mushroom Ragout, as well as sour cream, chives and butter. For dessert I recommend a simple Angel Food Cake covered with frosting and coconut.

Twice Baked Potato

8 servings

8 Over sized Idaho Potatoes, bake until done.

Scoop out
Add:

1 cup of sour cream

1/2 lb butter

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup of heavy cream or until smooth

Combine all and hand mash mixture.

Add back into potato skins.

Brush the top with butter.

Bake 20 more minutes at 350 degrees.

Finish with a quick broil to give a golden brown top.

Toppings:

Three Bean Chili

2 cans chopped tomatoes

1 Spanish onion, chopped

2 cloves chopped garlic

2 pounds ground sirloin

1 teaspoon Mexican oregano

1 tablespoon cumin seed, toasted

1/4 cup chili powder

1 teaspoon cayenne

1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 can white beans (great northern or cannelini)

Salt and pepper to taste

Sweat onions and garlic in a heavy bottomed pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until golden brown. Add beef, oregano, and cumin and cook, breaking up until meat is browned. Add tomatoes, chili powder, and cayenne and simmer for about 30 minutes. Add beans and simmer another 30 minutes. Add Tabasco if you'd like a spicy mix.

Wild Mushroom Ragout

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup chopped shallots

1.5 pounds mixed wild mushrooms, cleaned and torn

1/2 cup chicken stock

1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon

1/4 cup creme fraiche

Salt and pepper to taste

Heat olive oil in a saute pan over medium heat; sweat shallots until soft. Add mushrooms until golden brown. Deglaze the pan with the chicken stock, stir in tarragon and creme fraiche, cook another minute or two, add salt and pepper to taste, and serve.

Cream of Chestnut Soup

2 tablespoons butter

1/2 cup chopped shallots

1 cup Sauternes

4 cups chicken stock

1 15.5 ounce can puree of chestnuts

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

Chopped parsley for garnish

Garlic toast

Heat butter on medium, add shallots and saute for 10 minutes.

Add Sauternes and cook 10 more minutes.

Add chicken stock, bring to a boil and reduce heat, add chestnut puree and whisk until smooth.

Add cream, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper and simmer for 15 minutes.

Serve with garlic toast.