Three Easy Easter Treats

With Easter only a few days away, and it feeling more and more like Spring outside (with the exception of the snow today), I thought today would be a great day to share these three easy Easter treats I came across on Pinterest. Not only are these sweet treats easy to make, they're also fairly inexpensive and something everyone will love! We also enjoy incorporating everyone's favorite Easter candies from pastel mint candies to Peeps and everything in between.

Peep S'mores

Ingredients

3 Packages of Peeps (blue, pink, and yellow)
2 Hershey's Chocolate Bars
1 Box of Graham Crackers
Vary depending on how many you want to make

Directions

Warm Peeps in microwave for 10 second increments until soft enough.
Add Peep and a piece of the Hershey's chocolate bar between to graham crackers.
Voila, a delicious Easter s'more!

Caution: When you put the peeps over the flames of the fire, the sugar starts to burn then caramelize, making them almost dangerously hot. Burn with caution.

Mint Blossoms

Ingredients

1 1/4 cups sugar
3/4 cup Land O Lakes® Butter, softened
1 Land O Lakes® Egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
48 mint meltaway candies

Directions

Heat oven to 375°F.
Combine 1 cup sugar, butter, egg and vanilla in bowl. Beat at medium speed until well mixed. Add flour, baking soda and salt; beat at low speed until well mixed.
Shape dough into 1-inch balls; roll in remaining sugar. Place 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake 8-10 minutes or until edges are very light golden brown. Remove from oven; immediately press 1 mint candy in center of each cookie. Remove from cookie sheets to cooling rack; cool completely.

Layered Peeps Rice Krispie Treats

Ingredients

4 tablespoon butter or margarine (divided by 4)
4 Marshmallow Peeps (divided by 4/different colors)
6 cups Rice Krispies cereal (divided by 4)

Directions

Prepare an 8-9" loaf pan by lining with foil and spraying lightly with cooking spray.
Divide the Peeps by 10s of the same color - 10 pink, 10 yellow, etc. (use any colors you like).
In a medium sized microwave dish with high sides, microwave the 10 of the same color peeps and 1 tablespoon of butter on high for 45 seconds. Because microwaves vary, watch closely so the Peeps don't flow over the sides of the bowl.
Stir butter and Peeps together until fully melted and incorporated.
Stir in 1½ cups of cereal until fully coated. Press firmly into the loaf pan.
Repeat 3-5 with the other Peeps colors.
Allow to cool completely (1-2 hours) before slicing.

For more fun Spring ideas, follow us on Pinterest and devour the details today!

Salem State Scores with Super Bowl Winning QB

Salem State University’s long-running speaker series has scored a major victory by sacking New England Patriots Quarterback Tom Brady for an onstage chat with Emmy-winning sportscaster Jim Gray at the O’Keefe Sports Center on May 7 at 7:30 p.m. The series, presented with support from the Salem State University Foundation, is in its 32nd season with many more wins insight.

Founded in 1982 as one of the first high-profile speaker series in the country, the Salem State Series has hosted countless world leaders, artists, athletes, and intellectuals on its suburban North Shore campus. Annually, thousands of patrons come to Salem State to hear what Series speakers have to say on a wide variety of subjects. A self-supporting community enrichment program presented through the generous and dedicated support of corporate and individual sponsors alike, the series is one of the many important facets of the university’s progressive public education mission.

This year, SSU has found Brady to fit this mold. “Known for his strong work ethic and his belief that it is his team — and not he — that wins championships, Tom Brady is respected across the NFL and is a fan favorite throughout New England. Named ‘Sports Illustrated’s’ Sportsman of the Year in 2005, he credits the team for his win,” said a statement from Salem State University, hoping to share this mindset among its students. There is no "I" in "Team" is still a valid life lesson that is no surprise, continuously instilled in young adults, even in their college years.

Brady isn't the first of the Pats to take the stage, Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick spoke in 2008. Other sports speakers include Hall of Fame Baltimore Orioles shortstop Cal Ripken Jr. in 2007 and former Red Sox and Mets manager Bobby Valentine in 2012. Quarterback Doug Flutie and Celtics legend Bill Russell also spoke as part of the series. The foundation works with countless agencies to secure speakers that support educating the public; especially ones that want to impact future leaders such as these Salem State students with their advice and past experiences.

As some of you may recall, the last time Tom Brady was spotted on the North Shore was nearly a year ago. He was wearing UGG boots and walking on West Beach in Beverly Farms with his dog, Lua, filming a commercial. This time around, we're looking forward to Brady baring his UGG boots across the Salem State campus! Tickets for this event go on sale Tuesday, March 31st. For more information, visit the Salem State University Foundation website.

 

 

West Beach will never be the same. Good luck to the MVP himself, Mr. Tom Brady, as he devours the details of the Salem State 2015 Speaker Series!

Wedding Wednesdays: First Kiss Etiquette

Something every bride thinks about on their big day; the first kiss as Mr. and Mrs. You may have kissed your significant other a thousand times before but this is a whole different level of lip lock. How long do you want it to last for? Do you want multiple smooches? Are you planning to have the groom sweep you off your feet as it happens? All of these are great questions to have when thinking about this "happily ever after" moment. Here are some tips to get you prepared for your first kiss!

Practice Makes Perfect
You and your groom should practice the smooch until it feels completely comfortable. Hold the kiss longer than you normally would to ensure the photographer captures the moment and your guests are able to catch a glimpse. It is something you will be able to cherish forever.

Stay True to Yourself
Don't over-exaggerate the passion in your kiss just because it's your wedding day if it's not something you normally do. When you make drastic or severe changes at a moment's notice or catch someone by surprise, you may end up regretting the way it made you both feel. It shouldn't feel forced; the more natural it is, the better it is.

Don't Surprise Each Other
If you plan on doing something a little extra, like a dramatic dip during the first kiss, make sure you're both on board and know about it beforehand so it goes as smoothly as possible. You wouldn't want to end up on the floor, though it would probably be just as memorable. Take your time with this move and let your romantic juices flow!

Stop Overthinking It
Again, practice makes perfect but only if the final kiss both looks and feels natural. It's when you are trying to do everything correctly that you may fumble and seem unnatural. Your wedding is just one day out of the rest of your lives together. In a few years, it will be a faint memory. Just take a deep breath, pucker up, and let it happen!

First Hug and Then Kiss
What a lot of couples don't realize is naturally, we embrace before kissing someone. So if this is what feels comfortable to you, hug it out before laying a wet one on your significant other!

Avoid the Photobomb
You may want to ask your pastor or officiant to step aside during your kiss. Depending on how you feel about the situation, you may not want them in this everlasting photo.

 

So get to it and start practicing how you want your first kiss as Mr. and Mrs. to be! Devour the details of the smooch and forever share this wonderful moment with your groom.

Hannah Brencher

Hannah Brencher, an Assumption College alum (where my brother went to school), is becoming a well-know name in the fight to end different aspects of depression; whether an illness, the loss of a loved one, or simply feeling lost. A girl battling the disease herself, was overwhelmed moving to the Big Apple upon graduating. She found comfort in the letters her mother would write her, starting back to when she was in college. As her emotional rollercoaster ensued, writing letters became Hannah's own outlet and something she began to share anonymously with strangers throughout the city.

Hannah began writing letters on the train to individuals who seemed like they, too, could use a boost. She would leave them all over the city–crooked into cafes, libraries and even coat pockets. Hannah began blogging about the love letter writing and her future began to unfold. She watched as her inbox became a vault for letter requests from all over the world. In the span of 9 months, Hannah wrote and mailed over 400 love letters to people in need around the globe. And in the process, she herself, began to heal.

This journey has taught Hannah so much in such a short amount of time. She has discovered that no matter how tough we act, we all still need a love letter from time to time. That even in a world crammed tight into 140-characters and constant status updates, there is a still a great craving for the handwritten note. But most of all, Hannah learned with certainty, that the world needs far more than just her own love letters. This epiphany led to the start of Hannah's website More Love Letters.

As Hannah once did, More Love Letters helps leave love letters all over the world for others to be blessed by. They ask that you write letters for Love Letter Bundles for people you’ll probably never meet. And also invite you to nominate someone you know for a Love Letter Bundle. More Love Letter's mission is to create the most miraculous experience for people when they need it most: hundreds of letters of support and encouragement showing up at someone’s door all because someone in their own life loved them enough to just ask for those love letters.

My favorite initiative Hannah and More Love Letters has is starting campus chapters. "We believe in college students and the power they have to be the hands and feet of our little movement" says More Love Letters. If this initiative has not already started at your college campus, you can apply to join today! Hannah was recently featured on the Meredith Vieira Show where she shared her story. She has also written a memoir, If You Find This Letter, about her experiences and her hopes for the future of More Love Letters.

We are so thankful there are people in this world like Hannah Brencher and encourage others to devour the details in the same way she has! We wish Hannah and More Love Letters the best of luck in their continued efforts to bring happiness to anyone and everyone in need of a little light. I also plan on contributing some letters myself, as well as getting the high schoolers I coach involved. Also, special thanks to my brother for sharing this wonderful story with me!

Naturally Dyed Easter Eggs

Easter is my favorite holiday and my favorite Easter activity is dyeing eggs. It is a tradition in my home to dye eggs every year and snack on them Easter morning before our big dinner. While perusing my usual go-to blogs and websites, I came across a post from Lauren Conrad explaining how she experimented with dyeing eggs naturally. With the trend of going organic and consuming and using natural products on the rise, I thought this was a great idea to share!

People prefer most things in their lives to be natural rather than artificial (think food, makeup, and even cleaning supplies), so this creative idea really caught my eye. It’s a unique twist on your traditionally dyed Easter eggs, only using foods, spices, and plants. Here is how Lauren Conrad went natural with her eggs!

Supplies

• Eggs
• Red onion
• White onion
• Saffron
• Purple cabbage
• Whole carrots (with stems)
• Blueberries
• Beets

Instructions

1. Hard boil eggs in water.
2. Add each ingredient to 2 cups of water and boil it for about 10-15 minutes. Let them cool to about room temp. (This speeds up the dyeing process and makes the water a more saturated color.)
3. Soak an egg in each cup of water to dye, like you would normally dye eggs. Lauren Conrad did several versions of each egg, varying the time she let them soak. For example, she had three saffron eggs soaking and took one out at an hour, one out at two hours, and one out at three hours to get different levels of saturation.
4. Take your eggs out of the dye when you feel they’ve reached the desired color.

Tip: Dyes like saffron and cabbage worked quickly (only a few minutes), and others like carrot tops and beets took hours. 

Saffron 

 

Blueberries 

 

Red Onion 

 Make sure you set aside a good couple of hours before starting this project as it is rather time consuming. You can really devour the details of this Easter activity by making it your own and turning it into kind of a science experiment; mixing different dyes, letting some eggs soak longer than others, and even discovering how to create a marbleized and other unique looks. It is a fun way to continue a tradition but with your health in mind. I hope to try this out when I dye my eggs this Easter!

TBD Foods

There's been some buzz around my office about a co-worker's house that turns into a Pop-Up restaurant on occasion. No really, I'm not lying. My co-worker's roommate is an aspiring top chef who's dream of owning a restaurant or even a food truck is on the brink of becoming reality. TBD Foods is a personal dining and catering company based in Somerville, MA with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients and scratch cooking techniques.

At TBD Foods their passion is happiness, to them that means dirty napkins, full bellies, wine stained smiles and a night full of memories. They hope to spread the word and their food to hungry patrons across the Greater Boston area one Pop-Up at a time. If you're late to the restaurant-game, a Pop-Up dinner is a dining experience that takes place in an unconventional dining atmosphere, anywhere from green houses to apartments with converted dining rooms. Essentially, wherever diners can be served comfortably (with room for a kitchen).

At TBD Foods their Pop-Ups typically are family style seating (1 or 2 large tables), coursed-out meals, with a casual atmosphere. To TBD Foods these dinners are just as social as they are about eating. They believe it should be a memorable evening that brings people together, to forget about the rush of the day to day, and enjoy the company of others, as well as some great food. Along with their Pop-Ups, TBD Foods also offers a variety of cooking experiences, from a small private dinner party, to larger events and even cooking classes, TBD Foods have the experience to have you covered.

I think one of the best things TBD Foods offers that helps them stand out among other personal dining and catering companies is their "Cook With Us" feature; allowing new chefs to work events with them and showcase their talents in the kitchen. As a Guest Chef you get creative freedom to cook what you want, help (if needed) from TBD Foods in menu creation, assistance from TBD Foods to procure the ingredients of highest quality, and development of your personal brand. This kind of experience will build any new chef's credentials and confidence in the kitchen.

Since TBD Foods has taken off, they're continuously growing and gaining even more recognition. With all of the support they've received, they've been able to move into a shared kitchen space in Somerville; Kitchen Inc. They are in the process of moving in but soon enough will be able to host an array of events from Pop-Ups to classes and event group cooking dinners. TBD Foods will be launching a crowd funding campaign soon to help with the purchase of some new equipment (plates, pans, etc.) due to the expansion and consumer needs. They are still in the process of figuring out the logistics of the "Help Us Grow" campaign, but if you would like to support TBD Foods before they officially launch feel free to donate here. Also, if you’d like to be notified about their progress, sign up for the TBD Foods newsletter and stay informed of future events and the campaign.

 

And on top of all that, these clever folks even have a membership program you can join to dine with them called The Supper Club. The Supper Club offers members an exclusive opportunity to see upcoming events first, save up to $20 per dinner, and reserve seats before anyone else. This is a great option for diners who join them for pop-up dinners often. By purchasing a membership, you are supporting the growth of TBD Foods, which will allow them to host dinners more frequently, bring in more guest chefs, and create new services like additional cooking classes.

 

So whenever you're planning your next event, hire a chef or dine with TBD Foods for the ultimate foodie experience and watch them devour the details in the kitchen!

Independent Women

I've always been told to be strong and independent and that you can achieve anything you put your mind to. I feel like from generation to generation this has been instilled in women as gender inequality continues to diminish. In relationships nowadays you may see women paying for dinner and men doing the laundry. But here are Devour the Details, what we really love seeing is independent women taking it to the next level -- proposing to their significant others! Check out these five celebrities who strayed from tradition and popped the question themselves.

1. Britney Spears (of course)

Even though they're not together anymore, Britney Spears and Kevin Federline's whirlwind engagement started with Brit popping the question on her private plane! For nostalgia's sake, we're not discounting this marriage; she did get the cutest boys ever, Jayden and Sean, out of this relationship!

2. Kristen Bell

An ode to the couple I absolutely adore! As soon as the Defense Of Marriage Act was struck down in 2013, Kristen Bell asked longtime love Dax Shepard to marry her; via Twitter nonetheless!

She tweeted, "@daxshepard1 will you marry me? Xo #marriageequality #loveislove." He sweetly replied, "F*** Yes!!!!!!!!!!!"

The couple, who previously decided they weren't going to get married until there was marriage equality for all in the U.S., tied the knot at the Beverly Hills County Clerk's Office two years ago and have two daughters, Lincoln and Delta.

3. Pink

The most fierce and independent woman of all, did you really think that Pink would wait around for motocross racer Carey Hart to propose to her? The singer, who never fails to empower us, asked Hart to marry her in 2005 during a race in California. During the third lap, she held up sign that asked, "Will You Marry Me? I'm Serious!" They wed in 2006 and welcomed a daughter in 2011, Willow Sage Hart.

4. Elizabeth Taylor

Not to have you shy away from proposing but here we go again with a not-so-long-lasting relationship.  Elizabeth Taylor asked her second husband, British actor Michael Wilding, to marry her, and the couple wed in 1952 at the Caxton Hall Register Office in London. The legendary actress was married eight times (to seven husbands), it makes sense that she proposed to at least one, right? They had a small 15-minute civil ceremony, and later had two children before their split in 1957.

5. Jennifer Hudson

While Jennifer's fiance, WWE wrestler David Otunga, proposed first on her birthday in 2009, she wanted to have a moment to shine too. Fast forward five months later to David's birthday, when the Empire actress proposed right back to him with a five-carat engagement ring! They're still engaged, and have one son together, David Jr. We can't wait to hear about their big day!

We just love the chivalrous role reversal. Snaps for our independent women devouring the gender inequality details!

Holly Nichols Illustration

Today we put the spotlight on a fellow Endicott alum, Holly Nichols, who has recently been featured in The Boston Globe. After graduating from Endicott College with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art, Holly sought a way to merge her love of fashion with her love of the arts. Overtime, her sketchbook became refined drawings that solely contributed to her success. Holly's illustrations are selling internationally and are praised by top bloggers, designers, celebrities and fellow "entreprenistas". Still local but with even bigger dreams, she envisions tulle skirts, Paris, and peonies but is currently living life one iced coffee at a time in her studio south of Boston, MA.

The Boston Globe took notice of Holly's Instagram account (@hnicholsillustration) and interviewed her on the attention she was receiving. Holly fills her feed with original art in a different form. She posts original fashion illustrations on her account inspired by style bloggers, the red carpet, and iconic fashion symbols that rack up the likes. In the interview, Holly goes on to explain that when she graduated from Endicott, she was working at a school as a special ed teaching aide, and at the same time started her Instagram to post her many sketches. It started getting noticed really quickly, and within the first month Holly had about 1,000 followers. Originally, she was just using it to show her work, but the traction from Instagram was leading to real sales in Holly's Etsy store and for custom work. She is able to do art full time now, all thanks to social media and is feeling really fortunate for it.

Along with her Instagram account, Holly also has a website and Etsy store where her art can be purchased or she can be hired to hand sketch garments with love, preserving fashion-forward moments for a lifetime. Holly's first commission was for a boutique, creating them a uniquely beautiful logo and since then her business has grown. She was at Fashion Week this past season working with TRESemmé, sketching backstage looks and hair during the shows. How amazing is that? There is nothing better than seeing a fellow alum going after their dreams! Kudos to you Holly and we look forward to seeing you devour the details of H. Nichols Illustration for years to come!

Cookies by Design

Over the weekend my sister attended a fundraiser to raise awareness for Alzheimer's called the 11th Annual McGrail Family St. Patrick's Day Party. A family tradition held around St. Patrick's Day to honor their relatives affected by this disease, the McGrail's have turned this small function into a reputable event that has become well-known in their community. The fundraiser has raffles, a silent auction, contests, entertainment, and of course corned beef and cabbage--with all proceeds going to the Alzheimer's Association of Massachusetts and New Hampshire. To date, this event has raised more than $100,000 for the Alzheimer's Association and is still growing!

My sister and her friend participated in the silent auction and won an awesome St. Patrick's Day cookie basket. This wasn't your typical cookie display; it was put together extremely well and each cookie contributed to the design. The basket was donated by Cookies by Design of Exeter, NH. Cookies by Design, dubbed the "original cookie bouquet company", was created in 1983 by an unemployed, single mother, with a mission to provide for her family.

With time to think, this creative and motivated woman combined two traditional gifts, flowers and sweets, and turned them into one deliciously clever concept, the cookie bouquet. Her edible bouquets of custom-shaped and hand-decorated sugar and cinnamon brown sugar cookies on sticks, were cleverly arranged in baskets as tasteful gifts for any occasion. Gift-givers quickly embraced the new idea, and Gwen's budding enterprise soon outgrew her own home kitchen, crediting her with a great deal of success early on.
 
The newly successful entrepreneur moved to a location in nearby, Tulsa, Oklahoma. Then in 1986, when things really picked up, Gwen moved her business to Dallas, Texas. After the Dallas business was established, Gwen turned her attention to the numerous requests from others wishing to start their own Cookie Bouquet franchise. The first franchised Cookie Bouquet location opened in 1987 and the momentum has been growing ever since. To better reflect all of the creative, unique and customized products sold, Cookie Bouquet locations changed their names to "Cookies by Design" in 2004. Now, 30 years later, approximately 100 Cookies by Design locations are operating across the United States.

Cookies by Design helps their customers to send gourmet gifts that say they care. They've found that it's amazing what a good cookie can do for someone. With that being said, you can truly understand how Gwen's vision has brought happiness to millions of people over the last 30 years, including the smiles it brought to the McGrail family fundraiser with their St. Patrick's Day cookie arrangement.

Their cookies can be customized for any occasion and can always be personalized with a name or special message. Cookies by Design offers creatively designed edible custom cookie arrangements, classic cookie gift baskets, cookie cakes, and gourmet cookie bouquets and cookie trays, filled with delicious hand decorated cookies. Check out their website and send a personal and creative expression today with delicious cookies from Cookies by Design that will have any special someone devouring the details! And please take some time to visit the Alzheimer's Association website and learn more about what you can do to raise awareness for this tremendous disease.

Have A Heart

The American Heart Association is the nation’s oldest, largest voluntary organization devoted to fighting cardiovascular diseases and stroke. Founded by six cardiologists in 1924, their organization now includes more than 22.5 million volunteers and supporters working tirelessly to eliminate these diseases. They fund innovative research, fight for stronger public health policies and provide lifesaving tools and information to save and improve lives across America.

Their mission to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke, is evident in everything they do. To improve the lives of all Americans, they provide public health education in a variety of ways. The American Heart Association is the nation’s leader in CPR education training. They help people understand the importance of healthy lifestyle choices and provide science-based treatment guidelines to healthcare professionals to help ensure the best treatment for every patient, every time. They also educate lawmakers, policy makers and the public as they advocate for changes to protect and improve the health of our communities.

Over the years, cardiovascular disease claimed the lives of nearly 500,000 American women; yet women were not paying attention. In fact, many even dismissed it as an "older man’s disease". In 2003, the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI), the American Heart Association (AHA) and other organizations committed to women’s health joined together to raise awareness of women and heart disease. The NHLBI introduced the red dress as a national symbol for women and heart disease awareness and the AHA adopted this symbol to create synergy among all organizations committed to fighting this cause. To dispel the myths and raise awareness of heart disease as the number one killer of women, the American Heart Association, similar to the NHLBI, created Go Red For Women, a passionate, emotional, social initiative designed to empower women to take charge of their heart health.

Today, Thursday, March 12, The American Heart Association invites you to attend the annual Boston Go Red for Women Luncheon & Educational Forum at the Sheraton Boston Hotel, 39 Dalton Street in Boston. The event runs from 9am-1:30pm, beginning with educational forums in the morning, followed by a networking reception, exhibits, luncheon and fashion show. The educational and inspiring event raises awareness for women’s heart health and celebrates the Go Red For Women campaign. Tickets are $250 and worth every penny to support such a great cause. For more information visit bostonluncheon.heart.org. We thank the AHA and everyone participating in the event for devouring the details of women's heart health and remind you to dress in red!

Wedding Wednesdays: From Ms. to Mrs.

One semi-challenging task after tying the knot is changing your last name (if you choose to). This is something that isn't really done automatically. Critical thinking is involved when you go from Ms. to Mrs. because your new name needs to be changed on just about everything. Here are the best steps to get you there!

1. Get your marriage license
Before you can change your name, you'll need the original (or certified) marriage license with the raised seal and of course your new last name on it. Call the clerk's office where your license was filed to get copies if one wasn't automatically sent to you.

2. Change your Social Security card
Visit the Social Security Administration's website and fill out the application for a new Social Security card. You'll keep the same number but you'll need to update your name. Mail in your application to the local Social Security Administration office. You should get your new card within 10 business days (hopefully!).

3. Change your license at the DMV
This is the unfortunate part. Take a trip to the local Department of Motor Vehicles office to get a new license with your new last name. Bring every form of identification you can get your hands on; your old license, your certified marriage license and most importantly, your new Social Security card (whenever that arrives). Make sure you have enough dedicated time to spend at the DMV because we all know it takes a long time to get through that line!

4. Change your bank accounts
This one's a biggie, especially if you're setting up a joint bank account, or if you have one already set up. The fastest way to change your name at your bank is to go into a branch location. You'll need to bring your new driver's license and your marriage license. You should request new checks and debit and credit cards on top of changing the name attached to your accounts. Make sure to do this as soon as you can so that you can have access to your money.

5. Fill in the blanks - What else is left to change?
Once you have a social security card and driver's license in your married name, other changes should be fairly easy. Some places only require a phone call; others may ask for a copy of your marriage certificate or social security card. Be sure to notify:

• Employers/payroll
• Post office
• Electric and other utility companies
• Credit card companies
• Schools and alumni associations
• Landlord or mortgage company
• Insurance companies (auto, home, life)
• Doctors' offices
• Voter registration office
• Investment account providers
• Your attorney (to update legal documents, including your will)
• Passport office

6. Do it the easy way
There is an easier way to officially change your name. Go to Hitchswitch Name Change through The Knot and choose your option. It costs $25-$50, but it's worth it since all you actually have to do is fill out one single form that will basically update your whole life. Even though this is convenient, I would still double-check on everything that needs to be changed.

Now that you've got all of this knowledge, you can devour the details of going from Ms. to Mrs. with ease! Enjoy showing off your new last name!

Tom Ford

Wildly popular in many rap songs, top fashion designer Tom Ford is making waves across the globe. What draws my attention to this? Well, following fashion trends is something I truly enjoy especially when accompanied with some type of event, like runway shows. I am a very visual person, so seeing new designs at these extraordinary fashion events is very appealing. Which brings me to this update from BizBash! On Oscar weekend, Tom Ford presented his fall 2015 collection in Los Angeles (for the first time), drawing the fashion world and Hollywood names to see his latest.

Just two days before the Academy Awards, Tom Ford turned heads by hosting his fall 2015 women’s runway show in Los Angeles. It was the first time the designer has ever shown on the West Coast, a decision driven partly by the first day of London Fashion Week. The February 20 outing at Milk Studios also served to marry the designer’s dual passions of film and fashion. Milk Studios stands at the crossroads of the fashion, music, photography, and film worlds. A media company based out of New York and Los Angeles, it spans contemporary culture and is a hub for nurturing creativity and supporting partnerships with some of the industry's most visionary talent and innovative brands. A truly unique venue for a fashion show but totally fitting for Tom Ford's grand designs.

Onto my favorite part, the specs and logistics! The 8,200-square-foot show space required leveling, so 4- by 8-foot steel deck modules were brought in, with each of the 200-plus module’s legs individually shimmed in order to create the final even surface. Ford’s team accessed Milk Studios six days prior to the event and worked in 24-hour shifts until Friday, the day of the show. In total, it took 150 hours to complete the set. On show night, the 3,000 square feet of exterior entranceways of Milk Studios were transformed into pavilions for arrivals, with areas carved out for a step-and-repeat and, on the other side, ample spaces for guests to receive their seat cards and relax alfresco.

The show venue, however, had no traces of Malibu sun and surf. A total of 18 “suites” lined both sides of the two-row runway seating, each boasting custom 12-foot walls, gray velvet draping, and gray carpeting. The smoky, sexy vibe is classic Ford and a further nod to his newest men’s fragrance, Noir Extreme, which was in the gift bag. The custom soundtrack, meanwhile, featured a playlist that included remixed songs by Jay Z, Marina featuring Charli XCX, Poe, Naughty Boy featuring Emile Sande, and Abel Korzeniowski.

In most scenarios, coordinating such a multifaceted affair involving so many moving parts would be a daunting task. But Ford’s show, from start to finish, offered a refreshing change of pace, maintaining a calm elegance and approachable atmosphere where editors, society types, and bold-faced starlets all intermingled. It is always inspiring to see someone devour the details to make their dreams come true. We tip our hats to you, Mr. Tom Ford. I look forward to seeing your next collection!

Uncork Your Next Date Night

I love being signed up for Gilt City Boston. They always send the most interesting deals that can make any ordinary date night into an even more memorable one. Today they are featuring a wine pairing and dinner for two at CLINK., the Liberty Hotel's fantastic restaurant. Why is this such a good deal? Well, for one, if you've never been to the Liberty Hotel, you will want to go for the historic aspect and two, your meal will be prepared by award-winning Executive Chef Bradford Rainville and his talented team.

The evening starts off with a reception where you can mingle with guests and sample flavorful canapés. Then you will sit down for dinner. Courses will range from morbier with charred carrots and nutmeg toast to braised brisket with fermented onions and espresso. Throughout each course, Chef Rainville and a guest winemaker will explain the pairings, not only satisfying your hunger but educating you in the art of creating the perfect, balanced meal. The pairings will feature blends from the most historic wine regions in the world. By blending grapes of complementary flavors, winemakers are able to create a more complex and enjoyable wine that enhances the flavor, texture, body and finish. Winemakers who have mastered the art of blending are able to meld the finest qualities of each grape, adjusting the acid, fruit, tannin and even alcohol level to create a wine that is superior to its counterparts.
Executive Chef Bradford Rainville combines international flavors with locally sourced meats, fish and produce. His menu showcases his refined cooking techniques, which earned him a nod from Boston Magazine as one of the city’s “Best Young Chefs.” CLINK. has such an unique atmosphere—complete with tables tucked away in former jail cells—making it the perfect setting for an out-of-the-ordinary date night. The Liberty Hotel has been called one of “The Sexiest Hotels in America” by ForbesTraveler.com, and The Improper Bostonian ranked it as Boston’s best “place to see and be seen.” The wine pairing and dinner will be held on Wednesday, March 25, 2015, at 6:30pm. The voucher is $158 and selling out fast, so secure your spot today!

Wedding Wednesdays: When In Vegas

When in Vegas, you may hear those wedding bells ringing! And after being trapped in The Bellagio for 6 days, I can tell you that their wedding chapel is a great spot to tie the knot. Get your vows ready and your bridesmaids dresses, here are eight great places to become Mr. & Mrs.!

The Bellagio - South and East Wedding Chapels

The South Chapel is ideal for accommodating up to 130 guests. This masterpiece is an idyllic backdrop for your picture-perfect union.

 

If aspirations of a more intimate union have captured your heart, then the inviting charm of their East Chapel will romantically satisfy, with gracious space for 30 guests.

Chapel of The Flowers

Artsy couples with a well-defined vision for their wedding can bring their concept to life at Chapel of the Flowers. This chapel has been standing for 60 years and has won many awards. It's a classically beautiful space!

Mon Bel Ami

Mon Bel Ami’s chapel has been voted “Most Beautiful” in Las Vegas a number of times. This establishment prides itself on elegance and class at prices that can accommodate any budget.

Chapel in the Clouds

The Chapel in the Clouds at The Stratosphere Hotel and Casino takes the wedding experience to new heights. The breathtaking and award-winning views are a big part of the fame of the Stratosphere and there are many wedding packages offered at the chapel to keep such a special day exciting and beautiful.

ARIA Wedding Chapel

The Wedding Chapel at ARIA Resort & Casino will provide brides and grooms a level of contemporary luxury previously unparalleled on the Las Vegas Strip. This modern design is super sleek and creates a unique atmosphere.

Graceland Wedding Chapel

Home of the original Elvis Ceremony and right on The Strip, Jon Bon Jovi, Billy Ray Cyrus, Jay Leno, Johnny Depp, Salma Hayek and numerous others have walked through these chapel doors. Featuring traditional or Elvis themed weddings, they offer a quaint and unique wedding chapel with over 50 years of history, stellar service and affordable packages.

Venetian Weddings

The Venetian is where your dream Las Vegas wedding unites with storybook charm and old world Italy. They're proud to offer a variety of romantic wedding packages to make your wedding an event to remember!

Weddings at Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort

Celebrate your wedding in sophisticated style at Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort. Their dedicated staff will make certain that every detail is perfect, from your walk down the aisle to the final toast at your reception. And did we mention the gorgeous backdrop?

Say 'I do' to these great wedding venues and devour the details in Las Vegas!

Oscar-Worthy Trends for Your Next Event

As we caught a glimpse of Oscar parties through celebrity Instagrams and Snapchat, we were able to spot some details that can work for your next event in 2015. Hollywood becomes a glitzy treasure trove of design and décor ideas during award show season, and we totally embrace it. From orange carpeting to foliage in lighting fixtures, these award-winning touches will have the socialites buzzing!

Historical Themes

Draw some inspiration from cinematic history!

Hanging Florals

We love this look of lush greenery spilling from chandeliers.

Changing Up Chairs

These classic lab stools really add a unique element to the space.

All White Everything

Crisp white linen with white floral arrangements creates an eye-catching scene.

Orbs with Hors d'oeuvres

Get playful by serving some bite-size hors d'oeuvres in a hanging orb!

Take some inspiration from these trendy ideas and devour the details of your very own Oscar-worthy party. And be sure to keep an eye out for all of the décor and details that arise from the 2016 award-show season!

Manic Monday: This Post WIll Turn That Frown Upside Down

Happy (or not so happy) Monday! Today I bring you a post featuring the popular funny-man Jimmy Fallon, whom can always bring a smile to one's face on Mondays. We love Jimmy's creativity and his never-ending support and love of Boston. Most recently, Jimmy featured Boston chef, Michael Schlow. Chef Schlow took Boston's most recent crisis, the immense amount of snow, and turned it into an awesome segment on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.

Chef Michael Schlow owns and operates seven restaurants around the nation (five in New England), but he’s first and foremost a Boston guy. So when Jimmy Fallon invited him on The Tonight Show, he brought a little bit of Boston attitude — and a whole lot of Boston snow — for some ice-cold cocktails. And it makes us so happy to watch.

Schlow and his brother-in-law decided to whip up some alcoholic snow drinks. They came up with snowy negronis, using equal parts campari, sweet vermouth, and gin, all poured over some delicious (and hopefully purified) Boston snow that Schlow gathered in a cooler from where else but Boston Common.

The segment got even better when they got to the dessert round. Schlow brought the alcohol back out, pouring an espresso and averna mix over a pint of Ben & Jerry’s Tonight Dough, the second flavor the New England ice cream makers have named after Fallon. Seriously, why didn't I think of that? There's nothing better than ice cream and alcohol! Jimmy and Chef Schlow sure know how to devour the details. Check out the segment now and brighten up your Monday!