Three Crazy Good Queso Dips

Queso: a staple at any weekend get together! You can't go wrong with a bowl full of warm, ooey-gooey, delicious cheese dip. Paired with the salty goodness of tortilla chips, these dips will be gone before you put the bowl down! Try out our favorite recipes and put some queso in your face-o!

Dairy and Soy Free Queso

Ingredients:
1 cup raw cashews, soaked for up to 4 hours and drained
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon sea salt
juice of half a lemon (about 1 1/2 tablespoons)
3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
1/8 teaspoon turmeric
14 oz. can diced tomatoes with green chiles

Get the full recipe for this health conscious treat and try it out today!

Chicken Fajita Queso Dip

Ingredients:
2 Tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup diced green pepper
1/4 cup diced onion
1 cup finely chopped cooked chicken
3 Tablespoons fajita seasoning mix
1 pound Velveeta cheese, cubed (16 oz.)
1 can Ro*Tel diced tomatoes with green chilies (10 oz. undrained)

A bite-sized fajita packed snack, perfect for any game day. Try this recipe out in time for the Super Bowl this Sunday!

Queso Fundido with Chorizo

Ingredients:
4 ounces fresh chorizo sausage, casing removed
1 1/2 cups diced vidalia onion
3 garlic cloves minced
2 cups shredded Queso Oaxaca cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar, Monterey jack or Mexican cheese blend

With a hint of spice, this queso will warm you up from the inside out all winter long. Don't wait, try out this recipe this weekend!

We hope you are inspired to devour the details of these three crazy good dips and put some queso in your face-o this weekend!

Monday Mashups: How Technology Can Save Super Bowl Ticket Sales

Buying tickets to any sort of entertainment event through a third party vendor can be terrifying. Just this week we dealt with something similar. In October, we bough Eric Church tickets through Stubhub. We trust them and have only had positive experiences with their service. However, we got pretty nervous when we still hadn't received our tickets a week out from the concert. They ensured us we'd get them closer to the show. Little did we know they meant the morning of! In an online chat session, a customer service rep told us a lot of venues aren't releasing tickets until the day of events now to limit the resale and purchase of them to increase security. A step in the right direction but definitely an uneasy one for customers.

That being said, with the biggest game in television history on its way, it makes perfect sense as to why the top tech wizards are getting involved in ticket sales. Over the last decade, there have been a number of issues with Super Bowl tickets being falsified and fans being scammed. Which is a huge problem considering the cost of these once in a lifetime seats. The current average listing price for Super Bowl 51 is $5,889. Making it the most expensive average price ever tracked for the Super Bowl on the Monday following Championship Sunday. At that price, the 71,795 seats this year in NRG Stadium have a market value of over $400 million. Regardless of how prices rise or fall over the next week, it’s the biggest market for a single event that exists on the planet. It’s also the most visible event in for the ticket industry, which makes fixing it all the more important.

Much of the mayhem of Super Bowl markets past have been the result of something called speculative selling, by which brokers list tickets for sale on major marketplaces without actually knowing what seat they are selling. These ‘zone-based listings’ have uncertain names like “Upper Level EndZone, N/A” and “300s Level Corner, TBD.” This year, many of the tickets that get sold in ‘open’ marketplace sites or apps will be zone-based listings. To avoid market blow-up, speculative selling needs to be eliminated entirely. Doing this will create a picture far better than the complete chaos that we saw in 2015 when thousands of fans purchased tickets 10 days ahead of the Super Bowl only to arrive in Arizona to find that their ticket had vanished into the desert air and that the cost to replace their $2,500 ticket was $10,000.

A real life nightmare for football fans. But the good news for speculators and teams alike is that the best minds at companies like Ticketmaster, SeatGeek and Eventbrite are focused on technology to unlock primary market supply in the same way that TicketNetwork and Stubhub did for brokers 25 years ago around the dawn of Internet. As a measure of progress, according to Ticketmaster, the number of developers accessing the API they launched almost two years ago has increased from 200 developers at launch, to over 2,000 today, of which TicketIQ is one. Seatgeek is months away from launching their first client, Sporting Kansas City, on their new primary ticketing platform, called Open.

For consumers, all this access will mean a category experience that improves significantly. It will cost you though. A functioning ticket market means ultra-high demand events will have ultra-high prices. It is the basis of supply and demand, and the foundation of every commodities market. As an alternative to fraud, lawsuits, and heartbreak, it’s a no-brainer. So as the Super Bowl keeps on keeping on, we hope you are able to devour the details of the most secure tickets and enjoy this once in a lifetime event in all its glory!

Thirsty Thursday: Super Bowl Suday Edition

We know Super Bowl LI isn't until February 5th but if you're planning on doing your grocery shopping, and more importantly, adult beverage shopping this weekend--we've got the perfect game day cocktails just for you. Yes, the thirst is real! Not only are these libations tasty, they also represent both Super Bowl teams. In fact, there is a complete list of cocktails for each squad in the NFL. But who are we kidding, we only care about one team...Pats Nation baby! Without further adieu, we present you with the Flying Elvis and Rye-se Up.

For the 2016 NFL season, Liquor.com had a bartender from each NFL team’s hometown provide the perfect cocktail to represent their team.

New England Patriots: Flying Elvis

For the New England Patriots, bartender Vikram Hegde at Cambridge, MA’s Little Donkey created the Flying Elvis cocktail; a little taste of humble pie, with the strength and resolve of some local navy-strength rum providing structure, and a little taste of the unexpected from the Amaro di Angostura and egg white, just like the Pats playbook. Plus, there’s a little something festive and tropical in the Giffard Banane du Brésil liqueur (you know, because Gisele). Get on TB12's level with this concoction and crush Super Bowl Sunday in true Pats fan fashion.

Ingredients
1.5 oz Privateer Navy Yard rum
.5 oz Amaro di Angostura
.5 oz Giffard Banane du Brésil liqueur
.5 oz Freshly squeezed lime juice
1  Egg white
Angostura bitters

Instructions
Add all of the ingredients to a shaker, and shake without ice until emulsified for about a slow 5 count. Add ice and shake vigorously for a slow 10 count or until the shaker frosts over. Fine-strain into a lowball glass without ice, and garnish with a few dots of Angostura bitters in the shape of the Patriots’ Flying Elvis logo (to the best of your artistic ability).

Atlanta Falcons: Rye-se Up

AMER bartender David Petro’s Atlanta Falcons–inspired cocktail is made with rye whiskey and is served up, as he says, “to represent the Falcons high-flying offense.” The deep red hue evokes the team’s color. Petro uses lemon sherbet to deepen the flavors of the drink and egg white to give it a nice rich texture.

Ingredients
1.5 oz Rittenhouse rye
.5 oz Cherry Heering liqueur
.5 oz Freshly squeezed lemon juice
.5 oz Lemon sherbet
.25 oz Cappelletti Amaro Sfumato Rabarbaro
.25 oz Egg white
.25 oz Cane sugar simple syrup
2 dashes Angostura bitters
2 dashes Peychaud’s bitters

Instructions
Add all of the ingredients to a shaker with ice and shake until frothy and very cold. Strain into a coupe, and garnish with a cherry and grating of orange zest.

So whatever team you choose to root for, make sure you quench that thirst of another championship and devour the details of Super Bow Sunday with your Pats or Falcons inspired cocktail. We know we'll be drinking a Flying Elvis! P-A-T-S, PATS, PATS, PATS!

Wedding Wednesdays: Ways to Incorporate Watercolors for Art-loving Brides

For weddings, you may not always have a theme and color scheme. Sometimes you will find that your theme ends up being centered around a color or a variety colors. This is especially true for our art-loving brides. That's why today we wanted to bring you some unique ways to incorporate watercolors into your big day! Check it out.

Whimsically Shaped Watercolor Invitations

Play with color, shapes and fonts to create something that also reflects your artsy-style. A logo and watercolor envelope liners will make your correspondence totally pop!

Alternative Guestbook

Try this twist on a traditional guest book! Ask friends and family to write you letters that you'll open on your first, fifth and tenth anniversaries and package them up sweetly in these watercolor pouches for safe keeping.

Place Settings that Pop

A new spin on the place card—personalized place mats! Have guests' names and table numbers printed directly onto place mats, adding color and personality to your table. A watercolor masterpiece!

Hand-Painted Cake Details

An all-white cake slate is the perfect canvas for a hand-painted watercolor pattern! This kind of design is sure to standout at your reception!

This theme will beautifully illustrate your love for one another. Celebrate in watercolor and devour the details of an art-inspired wedding!

Treat Yourself with These Five DIY Face Masks

This harsh winter weather can really take a toll on your skin. Don't forget to take care of your biggest organ by treating yourself every once-in-a-while. Check out these five DIY face masks that will surely do the trick! They even smell (and taste) good too. Enjoy!

Cinnamon and Raw Honey – for rejuvenating the skin

Ingredients
1 tbsp. of raw honey
2 tbsp. of ground cinnamon

Slather a generous amount of honey onto your face, avoiding your eyes (only for ease of clean up). After 5-10 minutes, rinse the honey off with warm water and a washcloth, if needed.

Banana, Yogurt and Almond Oil – for dry skin

Ingredients
2 tbsp. Banana
1 tbsp. Plain Greek Yogurt
1 tbsp. Almond Oil

Mix banana, yogurt, and almond oil together into a creamy paste. Evenly apply mixture to face and let sit for 5-10 minutes. Rinse off mixture using cool water and pat dry. You can also use this on your arms, legs and body.

Simple Coffee Mud Face Mask – works on common skin issues like dullness and eczema

Ingredients
2 tsp. Cosmetic Grade Clay
1 tsp. Coffee Grounds (you can totally recycle recently brewed coffee grounds)
1 to 1 1/2 tsp. Apple Cider Vinegar:
2-3 drops Tea Tree Oil (optional) or your favorite essential oil

Use a plastic or wood spoon to mix ingredients. This will prevent the active clay from drawing metals beforehand, thus maintaining its full absorbency. In a small glass or plastic bowl mix dry ingredients until well incorporated. Add apple cider vinegar and essential oil (if using any) and mix until forming a paste. If the paste is too thick you can add a bit more apple cider vinegar until thinning it out to your desired consistency. Using your fingers, spread mask over your face or desired area. Let it set for 5-15 minutes or until the mask hardens (but before it starts to overly dry and crack or flake). Rinse with warm water using slight circular motions. Pat dry with a clean towel and apply moisturizer.

Turmeric Face Mask – for glowing, bright skin

Ingredients
1 tsp. turmeric powder
2 tsp. rice flour (you could also use garbanzo flour or finely-ground oats)
3 tbsp. plain yogurt (you could substitute milk, cream, or sour cream)

Mix everything together until creamy, and then slather it on a clean face. Let it dry for 15-20 minutes, and then rinse off, gently scrubbing as you go.

Strawberry Mask – for dull, damaged or acne-prone skin

Ingredients
8-9 Fresh strawberries
3 tbsp. of honey

In a bowl, mash the strawberries with a fork until smooth. Add in the honey and mix the ingredients together. Using clean hands or a sanitized brush, gently apply the mixture all over your face, avoiding the eye area. Lie down and leave the mask on for 10-15 minutes. Wash it away with warm water, pat your face dry and follow up with your favorite toner and moisturizer.

We hope your skin is feeling better already just thinking about these DIY face masks. Beat winter's wrath with these skin saving creations and devour the details of treating yourself!

Monday Mashups: Thursday Kitchen

If you're ever in NYC, this is the place to go. From classic Korean favorites to Capri Sun inspired cocktails, Thursday Kitchen is a hot spot for foodies and Instagrammers alike. Kyungmin Kay Hyun, the chef and owner, grew up in Busan, South Korea, but her cooking is not beholden to her heritage alone. Ms. Hyun, 35, was the executive chef at Kristalbelli, a barbecue spot in Koreatown in Manhattan, where she learned a lot and infused her cooking style with that of Spanish and French influence.

Yes, she makes her own kimchi. Then she caramelizes it, just enough to draw out its sweet, gingery contours without sacrificing crunch, and deploys it in a paella-esque bowl of sushi rice flipped in a wok with tiger shrimp, mussels and Parmesan. The cheese gives it the density of risotto; the wok leaves a hint of smoke. Yum! A unique blend of international elements in one dish.

But if the food isn't of interest, we recommend the cocktails. These adult beverages come in plastic pouches with straws thrust in, reminiscent of Capri Suns. The cubes inside look like ice but glow-in-the-dark. The totable drinks, following a trend in Seoul, are meant to evoke memories of childhood lunchboxes, a reminder of more imaginative times. The cocktails, which come in lemon, strawberry, lychee, and cucumber flavors, are mixed with soju, a vodka-like rice liquor. Did we mention they make for a great photo opp?

Next time you're in the city, get your Instagrams ready and devour the details of Thursday Kitchen; quality food and good vibes only!

Forget About the Frost This Weekend

Got those winter blues? We do too! But you're in luck. There are two events in Boston this weekend that will totally make you forget about the frost outside and only focus on the frost on your drink glass. Put winter behind you for a few hours and get a taste for warmer weather with the help of Sam Adams After Hours and Todd Maul's Tiki 101 Course.

Sam Adams After Hours
Want to add a dash of Caribbean heat to your dreary January? Sam Adams celebrates the release of its new Rebel Juiced IPA tonight with a tropical getaway-themed edition of its weekly After Hours event. Guests will receive four drink tickets, plus flavorful Caribbean food from Pikliz International Kitchen, which should pair perfectly with the Juiced IPA’s mango and citrusy hops. After Hours runs from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Sam Adams Brewery in Boston. Entry is $10 and it is a 21+ event. Get ready for beach weather with Sam Adam's Juiced IPA!

Tiki 101
January may not seem like the best month for a crash course in tropical cocktails. But if beachside beverages served in a pineapple sound like the perfect escape, Cafe ArtScience bar director and “avid rum enthusiast” Todd Maul’s Tiki 101 course might be just what you need. Guests will learn how to make their own tiki cocktails (yum) while enjoying snacks and drink samples during the one-hour course. It's a little getaway for your mind at least! The fun crash course will be held Saturday, January 21 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Cafe ArtScience in Cambridge. Tickets are $48 but worth it! And of course the event is also 21+.

Getaway for a few hours at these summer inspired beer and cocktail events and devour the details of warmer weather before it even arrives. Cheers to the sun and the sand and some drinks in your hand!

Wedding Wednesdays: Dinsey Princess Dream Come True

We're heading to Disney the first week in May so to say we are obsessing about it is an understatement. It's literally all we can think about! So when we saw this story, we knew it was meant to be—just like Belle and the Beast, Cinderella and Prince Charming, and Shrek and Fiona. This is a fairytale proposal that Walt couldn't even dream up. Check it out!

In a sweet photo series posted to the photo-sharing site Imgur, user jel2930 shows how he re-created Belle’s iconic yellow ball gown to propose to his girlfriend—and we’re seriously impressed. He shared how she grew up admiring Belle from Beauty and the Beast. Wanting to re-create the famous scene, he decided to make her the dress to coincide with his proposal. Yes you read that right, hand-make a gown, for the dreamiest Disney proposal we've ever seen!

Equipped with a basic sewing machine, a mannequin and a few other necessities to make Project Runway lovers proud, he got to work. He shared how he started, in a basement with a cheap sewing machine, a dream and coffee, lots of coffee; and he shared his progress. Between the rolls of golden yellow fabric, scissors and pins strewn about, his noble task was no small feat, but as any prince would be, he was determined to grace his princess with this affectionate adornment. And to his surprise, the finished gown fit Cara perfectly.

Down on one knee and wearing a princely royal blue to coordinate with Cara’s custom yellow gown, jel2930 popped the question in Iowa State University’s Parks Library Periodical Room. Romantic and literary, just as Belle and Cara always imagined it to be. A true love story!

Seriously, just look at all that detail! We feel like Disney may want to recruit jel2930 to do some costume designs for them. Or at least offer up a sweet honeymoon to this royal couple! We hope everyone can have a fairytale proposal like Cara's and devour the details of a happily ever after!

Well Deserved Weekend Getaways

It's that time of year when we all deserve a mini-vacation. Whether it's to somewhere warm or somewhere fun, we all need a little time off. There are great travel deals going on right now so do your research. Enjoy some R&R and explore some new places or go based off of your current location like these getaways we've listed below.

If you live in Los Angeles...

Get Away to Mammoth
So you’re in the mood for a little change of weather from the constant state of 75-and-sunny in LA? Mammoth, which is about a 5 to 6 hour drive from the city, is the perfect snowy destination. You can spend your days skiing and snowboarding, or take the more mellow route and drink wine by the fireplace in a beautiful lodge. Looking to make a special dinner reservation? Go to The Lakefront for hearty mountain fare like angus steak and mushroom risotto. It comes highly recommended by Lauren Conrad!

If you live in New York...

Get Away to Miami
Flights to Miami from the city are reasonably priced and this party city in the Southeast is a great warm destination to get away to. It only takes three hours to travel by plane, and if you’re looking for warmer weather, it’s worth it. Check out the Miami Beach Edition for a great beachside hang, Casa Tua for a delicious girls’ dinner and stroll down Collins Avenue for Instagram-worth Art Deco architecture. Perfect for a bachelorette weekend as well!

If you live in Chicago...

Get Away to Alpine Valley, Wisconsin
It might not be the Rocky Mountains, but Alpine Valley can provide a much-needed getaway for any Chicagoan. Just a little bit north of Lake Geneva, Alpine Valley is a short drive from the city and boasts fabulous ski resorts that will satisfy your craving for an active weekend away. If you’re looking to hit the slopes, check out Alpine Valley Resort, Labrador Mountain, or Toggenburg Mountain.

If you live in Boston...

Get Away to Nashville
From Boston, you and a friend can fly to Nashville and stay for 3-nights for under $600. It's a steal! Shine your cowboy boots and pull out those daisy dukes, it's time to hit Broadway for some live country music! Jump on a Pedal Bar Party Bus and tour Music City for the ultimate good time. And forget about sleeping, Nashville is a stay up all night kind of town. You might need a vacation from this vacation!

A little weekend getaway is well deserved! Be sure to treat yourself to some R&R and devour the details of a 3-day trip you'll want to do again and again!

Monday Mashups: Edible Event Signage

If Banksy and Willy Wonka collaborated, this would be it. A whole new twist on event signage. Literally, one you can eat! Videri Chocolate Factory recently partnered with digital ad agency Baldwin& to create two-pound edible chocolate posters for the factory's fifth anniversary campaign. Outrageous and delicious. We love it!

The Raleigh, North Carolina-based chocolate shop partnered with Baldwin& to showcase a series of edible chocolate posters throughout the city for its weeklong celebration. The campaign began as a social media initiative on January 6 before Videri unveiled the posters on January 11. The two-pound posters were created by Videri co-C.E.O. Sam Ratto using 70 percent dark chocolate. You know, better for you, even as a two-pound poster!

The chocolate posters went on display at Videri, as well as at local restaurants, breweries, stores, and art galleries. Each poster featured one of three campaign headlines: “If only we could say Thank You in chocolate. Wait. We Can.”; ”In celebration of our 5th anniversary, enjoy this tasteful poster.”; and ”Dear Raleigh, thanks for 5 amazing years. Now eat this thing before it melts.” Hilarious and clever! A chocolate lover's dream!

This is just one unique way to celebrate as an edible display. Check out these other ideas for more inspiration!

Escort Card Holders

Wall of Donuts

Spell It Out with Cake

A true mashup indeed! We hope you are able to think outside-of-the-box when it comes to your next display and devour the details of edible event signage without delay!

Celebrate MLK Day, Monday, January 16

"The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright days of justice emerge. And that is something that I must say to my people who stand on the worn threshold which leads into the palace of justice. In the process of gaining our rightful place we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from
the cup of bitterness and hatred." - Martin Luther King, Jr.

It is hard to ignore that words of the great Martin Luther King, Jr. when so much of what he said 54 years ago is still relevant today. Not just for racial equality but for all challenges faced by Americans today; terrorism, gender equality, socioeconomic status, to name a few. As we continue to overcome these obstacles and fight for justice, may we do so in memory of Martin Luther King, Jr. and the wise words he shared in 1963.

Boston will celebrate MLK Day on Monday, January 16 with events at Faneuil Hall and the Museum of Fine Arts. If you are able to attend, we recommended you do so!

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration

The Museum of African American History and Boston Youth Symphony Orchestras will be joined at Faneuil Hall by Mayor Marty Walsh for the city’s annual tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. Expect readings of King’s words by local politicians and community leaders, music from the BYSO, and a powerful audience sing-along to conclude the celebration. This is a free event that is open to all ages.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Open House at the MFA

On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston is offering free admission in honor of the pioneering Civil Rights leader. Along with the MFA’s usual artistic wonders, visitors are encouraged to check out the Community Arts Initiative Partner Spotlight, featuring artworks commemorating King’s legacy created by students, and all-day performances from groups like the Boston City Singers. This event is open to all ages.

Don't miss out on these community events honoring Martin Luther King, Jr.'s legacy. Devour the details and celebrate our city's unity as we continue to endure these trying times together. Wishing you a Happy MLK Day!

Wedding Wednesdays: What Should Your Bridesmaids Pay For

Happy Wedding Wednesday! This is a question that we see come up a lot as our friends continue to get married. And trust us, it definitely varies across the board. If you are asking someone to be by your side throughout your wedding planning process and special day, be up front with them about the cost so your expectations are the same. Just remember everyone has a budget—so don't go overboard!

Costs for Bridesmaids:

Hotel and Travel
Traditionally, how your bridesmaids get to the wedding and where they stay is on them. A lot of the time, bridal parties will share a suite the night before the wedding and retreat to their own rooms the night of the wedding. Usually the bride and groom will reserve a hotel room block so the prices are at a discounted rate for their guests including the bridal party.

Wedding Ensemble
Bridesmaid dresses, alterations, shoes and accessories (including jewelry, unless you’re gifting it to them) are their responsibility. Surprising them with a nice pair of earrings or a necklace is a sweet touch if you choose to do so!

Bridal Shower 
Depending on who’s hosting, your maid of honor and bridesmaids are often expected to split the bridal shower bill. But if your family is hosting (or cohosting), a portion of the costs and responsibilities—from décor and activities to food and beverages—will fall on them.

Bridal Shower Gift
A bridal shower gift is by no means required but if the party has a fun theme, like a lingerie swap, it may be less expensive. With something like this, it’s possible to participate without purchasing a huge gift off the registry—or another huge gift altogether—which is a nice alternative for your bridesmaids.

Bachelorette Party
Your gal pals are responsible for all décor, activities, food and drink for the final fling before the ring. This can get expensive but it's something everyone looks forward to!

Wedding Present 
In money, time and effort, your bridesmaids are paying for a lot, so don’t be shocked or offended if they don’t get you a wedding gift. If they do plan on gifting you something, they can always go in on one thing with other bridesmaids. You might prefer to receive one nice gift over several less expensive ones anyway.

What You Could Cover:

Bouquets, Corsages and Other Floral Accessories
The bride and her family are expected to pay for the bridesmaid bouquets and other floral accents like corsages.

Wedding Day Transportation
Traditionally, the bride and her family are responsible for coordinating and covering day-of wedding transportation (to and from the hotel, ceremony and reception) for all guests and the wedding party. So treat them to something nice! It's more fun to roll up together and have one last pep talk before you walk down the aisle!

Hair, Nails and Makeup
This one’s a little trickier, but if you request that your bridesmaids get their hair, nails and makeup done professionally, and you want them to look the same, then you should pay. If you’re impartial, but your bridesmaids insist on using a professional glam squad, offer to split the bill or pay for it as their bridesmaid gift. Plus it's always a good time getting dolled up together!

Accommodations the Night Before the Wedding
If you plan to spend the night in a shared hotel suite with your pals on the eve of your wedding, expect to cover the costs. Your bridesmaids may have already split a room with a plus-one for the duration of their stay, and they shouldn’t have to pay for yet another room. What better way to celebrate your last day before becoming a Mrs. then with a slumber party?!

Whether it’s coordinating the bridal shower or bustling your dress at the wedding, be honest about what you expect from your crew, up front about all costs associated with their commitment, and willing to compromise wherever you can. If you’re gracious and understanding, they will be too. Share your expectations and devour the details of your big day with the best bridesmaids by your side!

Snap Mask: A New Photo Sharing Experience

Photo booths were the latest trend at events for quite some time throughout the last decade. As props and fun backdrops start to fade, a few new trends have emerged. Most recently, tech savvy organizers have incorporated Snapchat's well-known Geo-tags and filters into their events. And today we're here to share a similar app that's a bit more customizable; Snap Mask!

Planners looking to offer a photo sharing experience at their events have a new option from EventsTag. Snap Mask is a facial-recognition masking app that the company created to enable brands to offer a Snapchat-like experience at events. Of course there’s a lot of popularity in just using Snapchat, but it’s a very closed-off platform whereas Snap Mask gives everybody—whether you have Snapchat or not—that same type of experience with a brand at an event.

EventsTag works with clients to design the mask, which can be a simple overlay that covers part of the subject’s face or a full mask. The app uses 3D facial-recognition technology so the filter moves and adjusts to even the slightest facial movement. For the PAC-12 college football championship game on December 2, the company designed filters that looked like face paint representing each of the teams in the PAC-12 division. Each filter also included logos of the PAC-12 and AT&T, which provided the Snap Mask photos. How fun is that?

The app can be loaded onto any tablet or smartphone device to be used at any event. Guests can pick their filter, take a selfie, and then share the image or a short video clip via social media, text or email. It can also be used with a printer to give guests a physical photo to take with them. Snap Mask starts at $5,000 for the artwork and app.

Consider collaborating with Snap Mask and EventsTag and devour the details of photo sharing at your next event. Your guests will never forget it!

Monday Mashups: Stranger Things Inspired Cocktails

We hope you were able to watch a bit of the Golden Globes last night and catch a glimpse of your favorite celebs all dressed up! If you didn't turn on your TV, we're sure you saw the endless number of social media posts and Snapchats coinciding with the event. Our favorite featured friend gang, the cast of Stranger Things, definitely stole our hearts with their group appearances, including this hilarious yet brilliant rap honoring cast member Barb:

 

So today, we wanted to bring you some Stranger Things inspired cocktails as you await the second season and maybe re-watch the first season three more times. Enjoy!

 

Mama Bear Byers

 

 

An espresso infused bourbon and chocolate cocktail, a perfect combination for any mother trying to get their son out of the Upside Down. Cheers to you Joyce for never giving up! Get the recipe here.

 

The Upside Down

 

 

Speaking of the Upside Down, let's hope this cocktail is as close as you get to another dimension. The crimson color and swirls of black and blue definitely make you think of the nightmare-ish home of the Demogorgon. Avoid being taken with this recipe!

 

"11" Ginger Maple Fizz

 

 

Inspired by our favorite Eggo loving character, this drink will be your hero just like 11. And of course it has a maple syrup component to pair nicely with any waffle dish. We recommend this recipe for breakfast and Netflix in bed!

 

The second season of Stranger Things is set to premiere some time in 2017. We can't wait much longer! Practice these inspired cocktails in the meantime and devour the details of all three by the time our friends return to Hawkins!

Three Things To Do in Boston This Weekend

There's always something going on in this beautiful city! So if you feel like venturing out in the cold, we've got a few different events you can check out. From fresh produce to a 5K, here are three things to do in Boston this weekend!

Frozen Fenway

Visiting Boston for a hockey game doesn't just mean watching the Bruins at TD Garden. This city is home to some of the best college and junior hockey programs around, so there’s still plenty of opportunities to see high-quality games at Fenway Park. The first weekend of Frozen Fenway features three college match-ups: On Thursday, Bentley takes on Army, and on Saturday in an all-local doubleheader, BU will face off against UMass, followed by BC vs. Providence. Find out which game you can make it to and be sure to bundle up. A spiked hot chocolate or two may be in order!

Cambridge Winter Farmers Market

Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you can’t find fresh ingredients for your Sunday dinners. And now that 2017 has begun, the Cambridge Winter Farmers Market is back for another season, introducing a wide selection of locally sourced produce to hungry customers. Start of the New Year fresh with some of the best ingredients around!

YMCA Frozen 5K Road Race

Kickstart your New Year’s fitness resolution with the Frozen 5K Road Race in Quincy. The race is family-oriented, with plenty of kid-friendly activities at the post-race celebration at the Quincy Y Briggs Family Field House. Proceeds from the race go to the YMCA’s Change a Life Fund, which helps fund programs, services, and membership scholarships for those who can’t afford to belong. Giving back is always a great way to start off the New Year. Get active and get involved today!

These sound like so much fun, we may just make an appearance at one of these happenings. So join us as we devour the details of all Boston has to offer this weekend. See you there!

Wedding Wednesdays: Five Fun Wedding After Party Ideas

Just because the reception comes to an end doesn't mean your wedding night has to be over. Keep the excitement going with a fun after party! If you and your guests can hang, these late night outings are a perfect treat. Celebrate all night long with these five fun wedding after party ideas!

A Sweet Suite

To cut private room costs at bars, invite your friends to stop by your suite for more drinks. This can be BYOB, or you can keep a stash of beer, wine and snacks in your suite—room service appetizers are also a good idea. Or go in a different direction with a candy bar and other sweets. Can't go wrong with a late night sugar rush! Then when you're ready to be alone, know that you reserve the right to kick everyone out at any time.

Marry-oke

Sing your hearts out at your local karaoke joint or upscale piano bar. You'll fit right in in your wedding attire! Make it a sing-off for additional fun—there's nothing wrong with a little healthy competition between the newlyweds and both sides of the wedding party and nothing's better than seeing both of your parents taking a turn with the mic.

Bet on I Do

If your wedding is within traveling distance of a casino, rent a limo or party bus and hit the slot machines and poker tables. If you prefer to stay close to home, hire a local entertainment company to set up shop in your hotel suite—roulette and blackjack tables are easiest. Pass out those old school visors and cigars for additional fun!

Rock-n-Bowl

Ditch your gown and stilettos for oh-so-chic bowling shoes at your local bowling alley. You and your wedding party can score with a great night of after-hours bowling and booze, ensuring there'll be little energy left to spare. This outing can also turn competitive real quick. We suggest having the losing team pay for drinks!

Champagne Showers

If your friends are night owls, organize a local bar or club crawl. Spring for transportation (cabs, limo or party bus), because no one should be driving to any of these activities if drinking is involved. Budget for first drinks or the cover charge so your guests don't have to worry about having additional cash on them. If possible, make reservations at every spot you plan to hit, or else call beforehand to confirm they can accommodate your crowd. Though, who can really turn down a wedding party?

Keep the celebration going all night long and devour the details of your wedding after party!

Six Satisfying Soup Recipes

When it's cold outside, there's nothing better to come home to than a hot bowl of soup. It warms you from the inside out--the best sensation there is during the winter months. That's why these dishes are our favorite! Try out these six satisfying soups for dinner or even take them for lunch all week long for that ultimate cozy feeling. Enjoy!

Chicken, Avocado and Lime Soup

A fresh dish with a kick, this soup is so tasty! Get this recipe.

Chicken Orzo Soup

A true comfort food dish! This recipe will remind you of your grandmother's cooking.

Roasted Garlic, Parsnip and White Bean Soup

The creaminess of this soup makes us say 'yum' just thinking about it. Find out what goes into making this recipe.

Veggie Lentil Soup

This traditional soup is truly the tastiest! Get the recipe to make this dish.

Asian Chicken Noodle Soup

With a dash of sriracha, this soup really hits the spot! Learn how to make this recipe here.

Smoked Sausage, Kale and Potato Soup

Another creamy soup, we love the flavor the kale brings to this potato based broth! Try this recipe.

Stay warm all winter long and devour the details of these six satisfying soup recipes!

Monday Mashups: World Wrestling Entertainment

Growing up, WWE was a staple in our household. We'd gather around the TV and cheer for our favorites--Hulk Hogan, Shawn Michaels, the Undertaker and Stone Cold Steve Austin. There was never a dull moment. From Sweet Chin Music to the Stone Cold Stunner, it is no surprise World Wrestling Entertainment has stayed fruitful in this changing industry. Even recently, they've been able to expand their market to keep their audience growing.

The WWE has started to live stream Chinese-language matches and commentary, as well as scouting China’s provinces for new wrestling talent. They will be bypassing state-controlled broadcast television by teaming up with a video-streaming company to reach fans though computers and mobile devices. They have also geared up efforts to introduce a new audience to the suplex, the body slam and the drop-kick by hiring four full-time social media directors in Shanghai to maintain local-language social media accounts for its wrestlers and executives. WWE is also hosting viewing parties, like one last month in the Chinese city of Guangzhou, in which locals devoured pizza and cream sodas while watching a pay-per-view wrestling match and playing the WWE’s latest Xbox video game.

Wrestling’s cartoon violence and sometimes salacious story lines could attract unwanted attention from China's government. And while it has its fans, American-style wrestling-as-scripted-entertainment is largely unheard-of among mainland Chinese. Success requires exposing Chinese audiences to this new type of entertainment — a choreographed drama in which the outcome is known, though its dangers and injuries are sometimes shockingly real. Saturating this market will be a test of the WWE's livelihood.

Current WWE superstars like John Cena, are even doing their part to make this opportunity happen. “There is no presence of product over here,” said Cena, the square-jawed wrestler and action movie star who has learned to speak some Chinese as part of the push. By tackling the language, he added, “I’m kind of a vehicle to leverage what we’ve done.”

We are anxious to see what this strategic move brings for the WWE as they devour the details of this new market and potential new super stars!