Monday Mashups: Predicting 2019 Tech Trends at Events

In contrast to previous years, most event technology won’t be that shiny or new in 2019. Instead, BizBash shares, technologies that emerged during the last couple of years will be generating additional traction. Better use cases and success stories around augmented reality, travel-related technologies, and artificial intelligence for events is pushing these trends forward in the New Year.

One reason many tech providers will be stuffing the envelope instead of escalating it in the coming year is that buyers and users can't adopt as fast as developers can develop. There is often disproportionate excitement around things that are shiny and new, but people don’t know what to do with them yet.

In 2019, event companies will implement tools to deliver exhibitor collateral through AR and help attendees listen to presentations through their smartphones and use facial recognition software to check into a social event. It’s a less exciting, but more practical approach. Nevertheless, event marketers and planners can still expect some surprises. Here’s what else to look forward to:

AR Dives Deeper
Augmented reality application developers will address the more practical uses for the technology in 2019. Chicago-based BundlAR just launched the first content management system for augmented reality that plugs into event mobile apps through an application programming interface (or API). The company is partnering with event mobile app developers, for example, to enable exhibitors—without the need for Wi-Fi—to easily showcase products virtually instead of purchasing a larger exhibit space.

In addition, Preview Technology from Gainesville, Florida, will continue to roll out its AR-based engagement app as well. Without having to download an app, Preview lets attendees access product information by pointing their Android or iOS mobile phone cameras at Preview codes placed strategically throughout an event space. The action drops users into a browser-based AR experience in which a social log-in gets them the desired content in exchange for their contact information. Preview is a way to capture “anonymous” booth traffic.

Behavior Tracking Improves
Bluetooth beacons opened the door to other proximity-based event technologies. For example, the Indoor Lab in Dana Point, California, a provider of indoor foot traffic solutions for events, has recently partnered with Sunnyvale, California’s Quanergy to bring 3-D light detection and ranging (LiDAR) to trade shows and events. In addition to its ability to monitor attendee behavior, LiDAR can detect and classify objects, such as an active shooter or someone leaving an unattended package, allowing security personnel to react quickly to threats.

Business Travel Goes High Tech
Event travel and housing technologies will, as a category, disrupt “old school and legacy solutions” next year. For example, TripActions and TravelPerk—both offering in-house travel management and expense tracking platforms—will give corporate travel managers more options. Resiada, software that manages room blocks, and Meetingmax, a room block management and reservation system, will bring additional revenue and control to event managers. Planners will also be able to embed Stay22, an accommodation search tool that includes hotels, Airbnb properties, apartments, and hostels in the area, on their event websites.

Portable Office Space Grows
ZenSpace Event Solutions of San Jose, California, builds on-demand portable and private meeting spaces. The company’s “Smart Pods” are Wi-Fi-enabled enclosures outfitted with video displays, smart locks, smart lights, and power and USB outlets, and can be placed anywhere in an event space. The ZenSpace app allows users to remotely find and reserve space, plus pay and set calendar reminders.

The future is here and now with these trends! Plan your next event with these in mind and devour the details of a tech-forward attendee experience.

Brewhosue Bingo for the Pats vs Bills Game

Have a Sunday Funday this weekend at American Fresh Brewhouse in Somerville! American Fresh Brewhouse is Assembly Row's very own Gastrobrewery brought to you by Somerville Brewing Company. Located 35 feet from the Assembly Row T stop you'll find 24 draught lines, beer cuisine, lunch, dinner, pints and flights.

This weekend, you can enjoy all that the Brewhouse has to offer...including bingo. That's right! Swing by for a brew or two and some bingo fun while tuning into the Pats vs Bills game. Grab a bingo card and win prizes including gift cards, tickets to American Fresh Brewhouse's Comedy Show and Spent Grain Bread Making class, brewery merch, and much more!

Enjoy the brewhouse's special game-day appetizer menu, including half-price Nachos, Pretzels, and Dips during first hour of the game! Stop in for fresh IPAs, porters, sour ales and more while playing to win, just like the Patriots. It's the perfect Sunday Funday activity before celebrating Christmas.

Grab your buds, head over to American Fresh Brewhouse and devour the details of bingo and the Pats vs Bills the best way we know how. Cheers!

Wedding Wednesdays: We Love Welcome Bags

Chances are you won't be able to greet all your guests upon their arrival, so a wedding welcome bag (or basket) of goodies is a great way to say, "Hello, we're glad you're here!" right away. (This is especially true if you're having a destination wedding or hosting a lot of out-of-towners.) Check out our breakdown of everything you need to assemble the perfect prewedding goody bag that'll make your guests feel right at home!

Local Ingredients

The whole idea behind the welcome bag is to make your guests' stay more comfortable, so keep them from raiding the minibar. Fill their bags with sweet and savory snacks that will tide them over if they arrive after dinner or if they have a late-night hankering post wedding dance party.

Get Creative: Give out-of-towners a taste of local flavor with snacks that are representative of the setting. For example, locally grown Florida oranges, Cape Cod potato chips or Vermont cheddar cheese.

Sip, Sip, Hooray!

Throw in a drink or two, like bottles of water. You'll keep guests hydrated without sending them to the hotel gift shop. Add a custom label to show off your wedding colors, motif or monogram.

Get Creative: Swap out the bottle of water for something that speaks directly to the theme of your wedding. Try coconut water for a tropical destination wedding, miniature bottles of wine for a vineyard soiree or locally brewed beer for ranch nuptials.

Weatherproof Essentials

Take a cue from the season and stock up on items that'll help your guests brave the elements. Sunglasses, bug spray and fans will beat the heat, while pashminas, tea bags and hand-warmers are perfect for a fall or winter wedding. Ponchos and umbrellas are other must-haves if rain is in the forecast.

Get Creative: Hotels often provide a few complimentary toiletries, like shampoo or lotion, but not everything is covered. Kick up your welcome bag with a few extra pampering products, like sunscreen for sunny days or lip balm to combat the chilly temps.

A Few of Your Favorite Things

Add a personal touch to your bag by including items you love or things that speak to you two as a couple. Maybe it's a signature sweet, a book of crossword puzzles or a mix of your favorite beats. These details that capture your quirks make fun welcome bag additions your guests will surely love (and get a good laugh out of).

Get Creative: Give your guests a little context by personalizing each item with a note explaining its significance. For example, John used to do the crossword puzzle every Sunday morning with his grandfather, or Emily is infamous for keeping a stash of sweets in her purse.

Hangover Helpers

Don't let your guests regret that last glass of champagne. Create a special hangover kit, complete with a bottle of water, Advil, Alka-Seltzer and Emergen-C (even Bloody Mary mix helps) to help them combat any morning-after ailments that might keep them from enjoying the rest of the wedding festivities. Your friends and family will thank you—trust us.

Get Creative: A bad hangover isn't the only "emergency" your guests might encounter. Add in some Band-Aids, stain remover or a mini sewing kit to help guests deal with whatever disaster might come their way.

Get your guests excited upon arrival with the help of these fun-filled bags and devour the details of a warm wedding welcome they'll love!

Tasty Tuesday: Homemade Peppermint Patties

The perfect treat for the holiday season! Feast on these homemade peppermint patties at parties or in the comforts of your own home. Chocolate and peppermint - you can't go wrong! Check out this delicious recipe.

Ingredients:
7 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1/3 cup evaporated milk
1/3 cup light corn syrup
3 tablespoons extra-virgin or refined coconut oil
1/4 teaspoon food-grade peppermint essential oil or 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (see note)
1 1/2 pounds bittersweet or semisweet baking chocolate, chopped
Crushed peppermint candies for sprinkling, optional

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, milk, corn syrup, coconut oil and peppermint on low speed until combined. Shape the dough into two round circles, cover in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Sprinkle a liberal amount of powdered sugar on a clean countertop or on a piece of parchment paper. Unwrap one disk of dough and place it on the counter or parchment. Sprinkle the top with powdered sugar, too. Roll the peppermint patty dough to about 1/4-inch thick and cut into rounds with about a 1 7/8-inch or similar-sized cutter.
3. Reroll the scraps until all of the dough is used. Repeat with second disk of dough. Place the rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Melt the chocolate (We use the microwave on 50% power and cook for 1-minute increments, stirring in between; We melt until it is mostly melted but there are still a few small lumps of chocolate - we stir these in until fully melted. This will help to avoid blooming on the set chocolate.)
5. Using a fork, dip the frozen patty rounds one-by-one into the chocolate. Tap the handle of the fork on the side of the bowl to drizzle off the excess chocolate, scrape the bottom of the fork on the edge of the bowl and gently place the dipped patties on parchment-lined baking sheets using a butter knife to gently slide the patty off the fork if needed.
6. Sprinkle the dipped patties with crushed mints, if using. Let the chocolate set, about an hour. Store patties in the refrigerator.

Perfectly peppermint and crafted to make you smile! Enjoy this homemade recipe and devour the details of any holiday happening with this treat.

Monday Mashups: Easy AR You Can Incorporate at Your Next Event

Augmented reality isn’t a new technology. But in terms of events, it’s still in its infancy, slowly inching its way into the industry. The Pokémon Go craze of 2016 (when a high-tech version of the computer game allowed users to catch digital creatures in real-life locations) was perhaps the first time planners began to understand AR’s potential, leading them to look for methods of integrating it into their events.

The real power of AR and VR technology is to deliver experiences not possible any other way, to give people superpowers, and to show them more than meets the eye. And according to Orbis Research, the global augmented- and virtual-reality market is estimated to reach $66.68 billion by 2022, and the event industry will undoubtedly be part of its growth. But using it effectively and successfully is a process that is still developing. BizBash shares how event planners can incorporate AR using low-commitment, inexpensive practices and products.

Start with simple add-ons.
AR technology runs the gamut from simple and inexpensive to complex and pricey. However, event planners don’t have to jump into the deep end of the AR pool to get a taste of its benefits. For example, Hi-Lites are “visual-effects” glasses that transform light (stage lights, street lights, Christmas lights, fireworks, etc.) into custom shapes that the wearer can see—think hearts, smiley faces, or even company logos. They don’t require any wires or circuits and the frames are fully customizable and brandable.

Avoid reinventing the wheel. 
If event planners are looking for a more complex AR activation, such as one involving multiple technologies like GPS, Bluetooth beacons, or Bitcoin wallets, they can build a platform internally (if they have the resources) or partner with an augmented-reality developer, both of which can be very expensive options, especially for a one-time event.

But Apple's AR development platform ARKit may overcome those high costs and do some of the heavy lifting when it comes to the technology, including creating AR-enhanced navigation for trade show floors and virtual display banners.

Tie the tech to social media. 
By adding in AR, planners are able to bring an event and its elements to life—even popsicles. FrutaPOP, a company that produces all-natural, alcohol-infused ice pops, recently introduced its own AR experience using the product’s packaging. Consumers who download the company’s free mobile app are able to activate augmented-reality displays by scanning the FrutaPOP labels. In addition to initiating AR, the Instagram-integrated app also includes branded filters (such as picture frames) that can be superimposed onto an image along with a hashtag and then shared to social media.

For example, at a performance by country music singer Chase Bryant, held at Niko’s Red Mill Tavern in Woodstock, Illinois, in June, concertgoers were able to scan the Tito’s Vodka- and Patrón-flavored pops to activate the augmented-reality visuals, as well as add in comments and post the videos to social media.

The animated pops also made an appearance at M.P.I. New Jersey’s annual golf tournament, which was held in June at the Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg, New Jersey.

The future is here and it's a no brainer! Consider incorporating AR and devour the details of a whole new world at your next event!

4th Annual South Boston Holiday Market Weekend is Here

New England Open Markets is thrilled to announce the 4th Annual South Boston Holiday Market is finally here again! A Boston holiday tradition, this amazing two-day event brings together the best of New England under one roof at the Innovation and Design Building in South Boston. Over 120 of the region’s top independent artists, artisans, designers and food makers will be selling their unique handmade goods. Back for it's 4th year, the South Boston Holiday Market is the perfect one-stop-shop for personalized, handmade gifts for friends and family alike.

Join us this Saturday, December 15th and Sunday, December 16th from 11AM - 6PM to shop 'til you drop at the Innovation and Design Building in South Boston. Conveniently located along the MBTA Silver Line route, just minutes from South Station. The complex also houses the Boston Design Center, New England’s premier resource for design professionals, with showrooms featuring over 1,200 luxury product lines of fabric, furniture, lighting, antiques, fine art, wall and floor coverings, and kitchen and bath design and contract services.

And for your dining pleasure the Holiday Market will have 4 Container Restaurants serving up yummy gourmet eats. What's a container restaurant? It's only the coolest new concept... think Food Trucks, minus the wheels!

Support local makers and devour the details of your holiday shopping this weekend at the 4th Annual South Boston Holiday Market. See you there!

Wedding Wednesdays: Catering Alternatives You'll Devour

Serving a traditional, plated meal at your wedding reception is lovely, especially for a very formal affair. But if a sit-down dinner isn't quite your style or just out of your price range (remember, sit-down dinner includes charges for linens, chairs, place settings and menus in addition to the food), you'll be happy to hear that it's far from the only catering option. Seated dinner alternatives are no longer considered for only casual or low-budget weddings. Here are some creative suggestions from The Knot to curb catering costs while impressing and satisfying every hungry guest!

Cocktail style doesn't have to mean casual.
Planning a formal fete but can't swing a sit-down dinner? A perfect, unexpected alternative is a cocktail-style reception. Consider setting up chef-attended food stations that are both delicious and engaging, or have servers pass tapas-style entrées that are small enough to nosh on while mingling, but still fully satisfying (or offer both options at once).

Food trucks are the fun way to feast.
Having a food truck or two pull up to your reception is an awesome catering trend that allows for a relaxed and free-flowing vibe. Just keep in mind that guests won't get fed quite as quickly or simultaneously. Although if you're anticipating a more grazing-style party, this probably won't be too much of an issue.

Seating and service are key.
A huge benefit to forgoing a seated dinner is that guests have the freedom to mingle and dance without being tethered to their assigned chairs. Rather than formal tables, you can utilize high-top tables and lounge-style seating to give the room a better flow and allow guests to stay on the dance floor even during dinner. And remember: Great service is the key to a seamless, first-rate event. The level of service and the décor around you can make even the most casual station setup seem more formal. The more guests are taken care of and waited on, the more polished it will feel.

Make your menu personal.
No matter what catering style you choose, work with the caterers and on-site staff to select a menu that fits your wedding style and you as a couple. Have cuisines that nod to your hometown, favorite city or ethnic background. If you're going for a more relaxed party vibe, pass pizza slices, popcorn or tacos.

In any case, it will always be a feast over famine with whatever option you choose! From food trucks to hometown cuisine, devour the details of the perfect catering alternative to make your reception dreams come true.

Five Ways to Give Back this Holiday Season

The holidays are the best time to celebrate what you are most thankful for! They are also a great reminder to give back to those who may not be as fortunate as you. So, with this special season upon us, we wanted to share five ways you can make a difference throughout the holidays! Check it out.

“Adopt” a Low-Income Family
There are so many families out there who can’t afford basics let alone holiday gifts for their kids. Baby2Baby’s programs gives you wish list information along with a shopping checklist to buy warm clothes and gifts for a homeless family with young children ages 0-12.

Volunteer at a Children’s Hospital
This is another very meaningful way to volunteer your time. If you like spending time with kids, reading books or doing arts and crafts, you can spend a few hours lifting the spirits of kids who are sick and in the hospital throughout the holidays.

Thank First Responders
Firefighters and EMTs work tirelessly to keep their communities safe. Show them your gratitude my dropping by the fire station with a batch of homemade cookies, a carafe of coffee, or a bundle of thank you notes from your kiddos.

Volunteer at a Dog Rescue
We wish we could adopt all the pups! But since we can't, the least we can do is spend a day volunteering at a shelter. Spending time with animals is good for your heart and soul, and you will get just as much out of it as they do. And if you do have room in your home, take it one step further and foster (or adopt!) a dog this holiday season.

Make a Meal at a Homeless Shelter
Food and shelter are some of the most basic human needs, yet many people are without these things. Volunteering at a homeless shelter is one the best ways to help people in your own community who really need it the most.

Spread some holiday cheer by devouring the details of giving back this season! You will be so happy you did!

Monday Mashups: Truck Stop Takes On a Whole New Meaning Thanks to Good Trouble

On an uncharacteristically rainy night in Los Angeles, a group of actors, influencers, and members of the press met in a parking lot in Hollywood, ready to be transported to a mysterious location for dinner. All they knew was that the event would be promoting Freeform's upcoming series Good Trouble, a spin-off of popular family drama The Fosters.

After loading into a van and taking a quick drive up the Hollywood Hills, attendees discovered their dinner venue: three large moving trucks parked in an open-air field directly below the iconic Hollywood sign. The trucks were branded with Freeform and Good Trouble signage, and the back of each opened to reveal three distinct, design-forward dining rooms inspired by the show's themes of friendship, love, and young adulthood.

The idea of meshing the wildly disparate appearance of an empty truck and a really warm communal dining experience was inspired by Good Trouble's pilot episode, in which two women in their mid-20s move to Los Angeles only to have their U-Haul towed and all of their possessions stolen. Ultimately, the pair finds their footing after a fun communal dinner with their new roommates. It was really about creating this compare and contrast about what it means to be entering young adulthood and how quickly things can go awry and our inability to expect the unexpected.

The organizers themselves discovered how quickly things can go awry when the forecast called for pouring rain on November 29, the night of the first dinner. The rain was a big challenge due to the uniqueness of the location and the need to get people up safely. A heated tent was added to the cocktail area, outdoor carpeting kept guests from sinking into the mud, and staffers were on hand to help navigate the wet stairs leading into the trucks. Once seated for dinner, attendees were given warm blankets.

Other than slight modifications, though, the evening moved forward as planned with an on-theme meal from Love Catering. Designed to reflect upgraded versions of common foods young roommates eat, highlights of the nine-dish meal included hot dogs covered with edible gold foil; chocolate sprinkle doughnuts filled with bacon, tomato, and ketchup; and fruit-covered panna cotta in the shape of faces and hearts.

Ultimately, the goal was to bring an intimate group—each night was limited to 30 people—together to eat, bond, learn about the show, and get to know the cast in an unexpected environment.

Next, Freeform took the experience to the fans. This past weekend, the three trucks were parked on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood, where consumers were able to learn about the series, check out the decor, and taste a modified version of the meal. A fourth truck also traveled around Los Angeles, serving as both a mobile billboard and as a vending machine where fans answered questions about what kind of “good trouble” they planned to get into over the weekend. Depending on their answer, they were entered to win a series of related prizes like hangover kits, breath mints, playing cards, or even underwear.

So, would you host a dinner party in a moving truck? After seeing this awesome event, we know we would! Get inspired and devour the details of hosting your very own exciting experience!

Ugly Sweaters are Decking the Halls this Weekend

This year, crawl your way into the holiday spirit by joining the Boston Young Professionals Association's 11th Annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Bar Crawl! On Saturday, December 8th they're kicking things up a notch in Back Bay, as they are set to host another one of their signature events.

Now everyone, bust out your Ugly Christmas Sweaters! Dig deep into your closets and pull out the funkiest, ugliest looking holiday sweater you can find. Come out for some holiday cheer, drink and food specials as Boston Young Professionals celebrates the 2018 holiday season!

Registration kicks off at 12PM at Kings. Then the ugly sweater clan will prance along Boylston Street and enjoy all the festivities. Here's the schedule:

Kings 12PM - 2PM: 1/2 off Pizza, free Bowling Shoes (if you want to bowl).
Dillon's 2PM - 3:30PM: Special Discounted Menu and Specialty Holiday Drinks.
McGreevy's 3:30PM - 4:30PM: Specialty Holiday Shot or Drink, Private Area.
Lir 4:30PM - 5:30PM: Appetizers and Private Area.
Whiskey Smokehouse 5:30PM - 6:30PM
Back Bay Social 6:30PM - 8:00PM

Ticket prices are as follows:

Early Bird Tickets $10
General Admission $15
Day Of Tickets $20

Your ticket includes:

Wristbands to participate in bowling (free shoes) bars (no cover).
Exclusive food/drink specials at participating bars,
Access to private areas
Koozies
Photo booth to take pictures
...and lots of holiday swag!

You can purchase them here! Prizes will be awarded for the Ugliest and most Creative Christmas sweater/outfit at the end of the crawl.

Also, tis' the season to be giving back! The Boston Young Professionals Association will be collecting unwrapped toys for the Greater Boston Toys for Tots at Kings so please consider donating!

Get those Ugly Sweaters out of storage and devour the details of a crawl so good even Santa would qualify it on the nice list! Enjoy!

Wedding Wednesdays: Reusable Decorations for the Budget Conscious Bride

Cocktail straws, confetti poppers, and toppers, oh my! Everything you need from the engagement shower to the after-party, that sparkles and shines. Check out these fun decor items that can be on rotation throughout all of your wedding planning. Saving you time and, more importantly, money!

L-O-V-E Balloons

Giant balloons are all the rage, and we love the versatility that comes with them. They're a festive addition to engagement photos and lend whimsical romance to a plain ceremony background. Buying them in bulk means you can play around with monograms or different words for each party.

Cocktail Straws

A seamless way to incorporate your wedding colors into the cocktail bar? Simply add straws—so low-maintenance and fun. Use a few different colors to make it easier for guests to keep track of their drinks.

Confetti Poppers

Whether you're saying “yes" to the dress or making a grand exit, there are so many wedding milestones that merit confetti. These plastic poppers can be reused, so you can re-stuff them from the engagement to the after-party.

Calligraphed Cake Toppers

Calligraphy-style cake toppers have been popping up with so many fun phrases, from “The Best Is Yet to Come" to “Happily Ever After". The calligraphy on your cake topper can also coordinate with signage for table numbers, a guest book station, a cocktail bar or a gift table.

Paper Rosettes

Want to dress up a bare wall but don't have the time (or budget!) for a big installation? A cluster of paper rosettes is the perfect solution. Hang them in a pattern or disperse them like polka dots. If you have trouble sticking them to rough surfaces like a brick wall, suspend them from the ceiling with transparent fishing line instead.

Save more and spend less with these reusable decorations and devour the details of sticking to your budget while planning your perfect wedding!

Tasty Tuesday: Ginger & Lemon Game Changers

Today we're bringing you two recipes that will be a true treat this holiday season. With lemon and ginger as the main ingredients, you can't go wrong. Eat, drink and be merry with these delicious recipes!

Honey & Ginger Cake With Lemon & Honey Buttercream

Ingredients

Cake
500ml vanilla coconut milk icecream, softened
75g gluten free gingernut biscuits, crushed + extra for serving
300g dairy free margarine or coconut oil
1 cup caster sugar
1/2 cup honey
6 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
2 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
5 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 cups almond meal (can substitute with ground sunflowers)
1 tbsp ground ginger
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
250g coconut yogurt

Lemon & Honey Buttercream
400g dairy-free margarine
zest & juice of 1 lemon
1/2 cup honey
4 cups icing sugar

Instructions

In a large bowl add the softened vanilla coconut ice cream along with the crushed gingernuts. Stir briefly to combine and place back into the container and freeze overnight or for at least 2-3 hours until firm. Remove and let it soften slightly and scoop out 3-4 large round scoops of ice cream to decorate the top of the cake. Place these scoops onto a tray or in a container and place back into the freezer to firm up in preparation for decorating.

Ginger Honey Cake
Preheat the oven to 160C (fan bake). Grease and line a 3 x 20cm cake tins with baking paper.

In the bowl of an electric mixer add the butter and sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Add the honey and vanilla and beat to combine. Add the eggs one at a time with the beaters running on low, beating until combined between each egg.

Combine the gluten-free all-purpose flour, almond meal, baking powder and ground ginger together in a separate bowl. Mix gently to combine. Add 1 tbsp of apple cider vinegar to the batter.

Add half the dry flour mix to the batter along with half the coconut yogurt. Mixing to combine. Repeat with the reaming flour and yogurt and mix on low until combined.

Divide the cake mixture evenly between the three cake pans and place into the oven to bake for 1 hour or until golden brown and a skewer comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool before turning out onto wire racks to cool completely. Trim the top of the cake if necessary to create three flat layers.

Lemon & Honey Buttercream
In the bowl of an electric mixer add the dairy-free margarine and beat until light and fluffy. Add the honey and beat for a further minute until combined. Sift in the icing sugar and gently mix to combine.

Beat the buttercream mixture for 3-4 minutes and then add the lemon juice and zest and beat for a further minute or so until combined.

Cover the bowl with cling wrap and place into the fridge until needed.

Assembly
Add a dollop of the Lemon & Honey Buttercream to the serving plate or stand and press the bottom layer of cake onto the buttercream to secure in place. Add 1/3 cup of buttercream to the top of the base layer and spread evenly over the top with an offset spatula.

Place the second layer on top and press down gently. Add another 1/3 cup of icing and repeat the process until the top layer is in place and has been covered with icing.

Spread a thin layer of icing around the edges of the cake and place into the freezer to firm up for 15-20 minutes. Add the rest of the icing around the top and edges of the cake.

Just before serving top with the scoops of gingernut icecream to the top of the cake and finish with a sprinkling of extra crushed or whole gingernuts on top of the cake. To finish drizzle the entire top of the cake with honey.

Serve immediately!

Lemon Ginger Bourbon Fizz

Ingredients

4 ounces bourbon
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
4 ounces ginger beer (or ginger ale)
4 ounces chilled club soda
ice
fresh lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions

Fill two glasses with ice.

In a shaker, combine the bourbon, lemon juice and some ice.

Divide the lemon/bourbon mixture between the two glasses.

Top the bourbon/lemon mixture with 2 ounces each of the ginger beer and club soda. Stir to combine.

Garnish with a fresh wedge of lemon.

Get the ingredients and devour the details of a ginger and lemon-filled holiday season all winter long! Enjoy!

Monday Mashups: Serving Up Smoothies...From a Gas Pump

Playing off the idea that food is fuel, Daily Harvest, a direct-to-consumer brand that delivers organic, plant-based meals on a subscription basis, was pumping out smoothies and other goodies at its retro-style gas station in New York’s SoHo neighborhood from November 14 to 18. But why you ask?

Because it was time to get to know their consumers. The Refueling Station pop-up by Daily Harvest, which was produced by the Gathery, was the first offline experience by the brand. In order to realize their mission, the pop-up was created to disrupt New Yorkers' overbooked schedules and show them that they can nourish their bodies with good food that won’t slow them down. Also, as is the case with most e-commerce brands that host brick-and-mortar events, Daily Harvest wanted to connect with fans as well as prospective customers who may not be familiar with the brand and allow them to sample and purchase the product. We oblige!

Visitors were able to try samples including smoothies from the “gas pumps” and full-sized breakfast bowls, harvest bowls, smoothies, and more at the interactive “car wash” counter. The freezer aisle was reimagined as an interactive photo booth that featured different agricultural terrains where Daily Harvest's organic produce and ingredients are sourced.

Plus, a giant avocado slice called “the 'Cado Car” served as a twist on the nostalgic kiddie rides often found outside gas stations. The idea behind the retro elements acted as a nostalgic reminder of the past, when food was less processed and we lived life at a slower pace. We like that!

The pop-up’s theme was also inspired by the grab-and-go lifestyle of many folks, especially New Yorkers. Our busy schedules sometimes lead us to make quick and often unhealthy eating choices like grabbing something quickly at a bodega or 7-Eleven. But Daily Harvest proves it doesn’t need to be this way. To showcase this, the company chose one of the most unhealthy places imaginable—a gas station filled with over-processed foods—and turned it on its head to be a food oasis. It’s a physical representation of Daily Harvest's mission: to take care of food so food can take care of you.

Daily Harvest is planning to host its Refueling Station pop-up in more cities in 2019. Keep your eyes peeled and devour the details of a better on-the-go thanks to this green machine!

SoWa Winter Festival

'Tis the season for the 4th Annual SoWa Winter Festival. Now over two weekends, join us at the biggest winter shopping village and holiday festival in Boston. You'll find the perfect handmade gifts, sip on winter cocktails, and discover the best of the SoWa Art + Design District.

Weekend 1 
Friday, November 30, 2018: 5 pm – 9 pm
Saturday, December 1, 2018: 11 am - 7 pm
Sunday, December 2, 2018: 11 am - 5 pm

Weekend 2 
Friday, December 7, 2018: 5 pm – 9 pm
Saturday, December 8, 2018: 11 am - 7 pm
Sunday, December 9, 2018: 11 am - 5 pm

Enjoy the following festivities:

Maker's Marketplace
SoWa Power Station, 540 Harrison Ave
Shop from over 100 of the region's best makers and specialty food vendors in the iconic SoWa Power Station. While you stroll, savor some of SoWa's favorite winter cocktails, seasonal craft brews and wines. It'll warm you right up!

Winter Wonderland
450-460 Harrison Ave
Enjoy Boston's best food trucks, free face painting, live ice sculpting, as well as the galleries, artist studios, and shops that call SoWa home year round!

Photo Booth
Get into the holiday spirit with the Boston Ballet’s Nutcracker photo booth. After you snap your pic, shop Nutcracker gifts and enter the raffle for two free tickets to Boston Ballet’s opening night of Cinderella (5/10/19)! One winner per weekend.

SoWa Winter Group Show
An Art Exhibition juried by John Crowley, Curator and Exhibitions Coordinator, Boston Arts & Cultural Council.

Holiday Workshops
Sign up for a workshop with with Alice's Table, Paint Nite Boston and more. Schedule and ticketing: https://www.sowaboston.com/winter-festival-workshops.

Live Holiday Music
Enjoy performances by Alissa Musto, All Types of Kinds, Sound Off, and more.

Cocktails
Sip on craft cocktails by Banyan Bar + Refuge. A portion of proceeds support our neighborhood partner, United South End Settlements.

The SoWa Winter Festival is family friendly and free to attend. $10 cash for parking. Get to the Art + Design district this weekend and devour the details of some serious shopping just in time for the holidays!

Wedding Wednesdays: DIY Wedding Favors (You Can Drink!)

When it comes to wedding favors, our favorite picks are gifts that guests can actually use—and enjoy! So naturally, an easy DIY bottle of limoncello is at the top of that list. Who wouldn't want to stroll home with one of these? The Knot shares how you can do this in four easy steps. Check it out!

Supplies
Limoncello
Swing-top bottles
Baker's twine
Tags

Instructions
1. Mix up your own batch of lemon liquor.

2. Funnel limoncello into swing-top bottles and tightly seal.

3. Download The Knot template here and print "pucker up" tags.

4. Hang tags from bottles using baker's twine (available at TheKnotShop.com).

It's as easy as 1, 2, 3 (4)! Consider these cute and cost-effective DIY favors and devour the details of gifts your guests will love. Cheers!

Tasty Tuesday: Thanksgiving Detox

We are still stuffed from all that Thanksgiving food and fun! Time to detox a bit before the Christmas cookies hit. Mix some greens in this holiday season and join us in devouring the details of some nutrient-rich salads!

Acorn Squash Arugula Salad

Salad Ingredients:
1 bag of mixed greens (baby chard, bok choy, arugula, and spinach)
1 avocado
2 cups of sliced acorn squash
½ cup of pomegranate seeds
2 Tbsp chopped pecans

Instructions:
1. Slice squash ½ inch thick and roast at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-30 minutes or until caramelized.

2. Add greens to plate. Top with sliced avocado and acorn squash, and then sprinkle on pomegranate seeds and pecans.

Dressing Ingredients:
1 tsp maple syrup
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
a pinch of salt and pepper
¼ cup white balsamic vinegar
½ cup of olive oil

Instructions:
Whisk together and drizzle 2 Tbsp per serving of salad.

Blood Orange Kale Salad

Salad Ingredients:
1 bunch tuscan/lacinato kale, de-stemmed and shredded
1 honeycrisp apple, diced
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/3 cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped*
2 blood oranges, peeled and sliced
Instructions
blood orange balsamic vinaigrette
In a food processor or blender, combine the balsamic vinegar, blood orange juice, maple syrup, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and emulsified. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper.

Instructions:
1. Place shredded kale in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with a couple tablespoons of dressing and massage the kale for a minute or so in your hands to help soften it.

2. Add the apples, bacon, and hazelnuts and toss to combine. Portion into bowls and top with sliced blood oranges and drizzle with desired amount of dressing. Serve!

Dressing Ingredients:
1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
juice of 1 blood orange
1 1/2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
small clove garlic
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions:
Whisk together and drizzle 2 Tbsp per serving of salad.

Slay the salad game with these delicious recipes and devour the details of a quick Thanksgiving detox before the Christmas binge begins. Enjoy!

Monday Mashups: A Marketing Pro's 5 Rules for Creating Emotional Connections at Events

BizBash recently highlighted Pamela Norwood - the chief creative officer at Pamela Norwood Creative, a New York-based marketing and events firm. She previously served as the general manager of experiential for New York Media, where she oversaw the bicoastal Vulture Festival and New York magazine’s 50th birthday celebration. Pamela has also led marketing and events for Travel & Leisure, GQ, Rolling Stone, the Condé Nast Bridal Group, and much more. In this feature, she shares five of her infamous rules for creating emotional connections at events. Check it out!

1. Rethink everything. Every time.
Don’t allow yourself or your team to create formulas that are repeated. Really think through every consumer touch-point every single time. Treat each project like it’s an original masterpiece in the making. If you ever find yourself saying, “Yeah let’s do that. It worked for…” the internal alarm bells should be sounding.

This isn’t just about challenging yourself or ethics—there is a very practical reason behind it. Do something more than once and your team will be bored. Your events will start to feel like a factory floor, and that is always somehow telegraphed to guests.

2. Kindness is king.
Your team is gold. Staff members are your front-line ambassadors, and their energy is everything. Excited, empowered teams set the tone for a happy, exciting event. And confident people who are having a great time in their role create fantastic experiences for guests. Conversely, beaten-up staffers will take it out on guests in one way or another, whether they mean to or not.

The secret is a 360-degree service philosophy, which means treating everyone with the same, highest level of respect. And I mean everyone—from the guy delivering the orange juice, to the interns, to the C.E.O. of the company. Kindness, enthusiasm, and especially humor trickle down, so set an example as the gold standard by going out of your way to assist and support. Knit your people together; the rewards are huge.

3. Delight creates engagement.
It’s all about creating the unexpected to trigger emotional connections. This is the most challenging piece, but it’s also the most fun. Start by looking at every touch-point. Make a list. And with your best, most scrappy creative people, look at that list with fresh eyes, and start every sentence with “What if we….” Take event elements that can be rote, where guests expect a certain cadence or experience—like the front door, where talent performs, how food is served—and turn it upside-down in some way.

4. Create moments of discovery.
We have all been there. Guests walk into an event, get a drink, and then stand in one spot looking around, kind of just waiting for the “thing,” whatever that is, to happen. There’s no magic at that party. It’s a trip to the dentist.

Create moments of discovery for guests. Give them a reason to move through the space. And, of course, make it 100 percent selfie bait. Our culture is all about being at the center of the situation right now.

5. Play to the highest common denominator.
Come up with a dream guest profile, a dream demographic for your client, and envision all the details with that guest in mind. Even if 99 percent of your guests don’t know the difference between foie gras and a Big Mac, elevate the experience.

Take Pamela's advice! Create the experiences that seem to sweep guests up, make them feel like they’re a part of something bigger than themselves, and get their inner voice to say, “This is it. I am at the epicenter of what matters right now.” Your efforts will surely exceed their expectations and devour the details of a true emotional connection to your next event!

Join Jet Set this Saturday

Jet Set is a boho inspired boutique for a new generation focused on self-care. The boutique doubles as a hub for wellness workshops, collaborations private parties and fun events! This Saturday you can treat yourself to a face mask bar and all natural beauty treatment with three of your besties at this one-stop shop for non-toxic skincare, makeup and artisan travel essentials. It's an all around social, hands-on skincare and self-care experience you won't want to miss!

Jet Set's skincare coach will guide you and up to 3 other guests simultaneously through the DIY face mask process. The store uses non-toxic ingredients within all of their products. Each face mask is formulated in small batches using ingredients packed with minerals, antioxidants and vitamins that help improve and rejuvenate your skin.

The Process 

1. SKIN ANALYSIS 
The Jet Set skincare coach will access your skin and help make recommendations on which face mask best suits your individual needs.

2. CLEANSE + STEAM 
You’ll begin the process with an all-natural facial cleanser that will provide a gentle exfoliation and remove any make-up or debris. You will then be provided with a personal steamer to help open pores and prepare your skin for the face mask.

3. FACE MASK 
You’ll be instructed on how to properly mix, customize and apply your selected face mask. Their skincare coach will guide you through the process ending with an essential oil infused hot towel and refreshing facial spray.

4. SERUM + JADE ROLLER 
An in-house made serum will leave your skin feeling hydrated and glowing. You will end with a jade roller massage to help boost circulation and lock in moisture.

5. SKINCARE ROUTINE 
At the end of the mask, you can ask the skincare coach about customizing a nontoxic skincare routine.

Save face this Saturday and devour the details of a beautiful self-care experience at Jet Set!

Wedding Wednesdays: What Your Favorite Flowers Represent

Did you know most flowers are a symbolic representation of something even more beautiful? Learning what each bloom really means can make picking your bouquets a little easier! The Knot shares their guide to the most popular wedding flowers, their symbolism, and how they can add to your special day. Check it out!

Baby's Breath

Baby's breath (like the white items you'll likely be wearing on your wedding day) symbolize innocence—and they're majorly back in style as of late. Fun fact: They're fairly inexpensive and in season year-round, so go crazy with these babies.

Calla Lily

Lightly fragrant calla lilies represent "magnificent beauty," and are perfect and in season for spring and summer weddings (it is a tropical flower that originated in Africa, after all).

Dahlia

The dahlia is a symbol of a commitment and bond that lasts forever, making them pretty perfect for weddings. The bold, bushy flower is elegant for summer or early fall weddings (when they're in season).

Delphinium

Lightly fragrant delphiniums represent swiftness and lightness, and are beloved (and in season) for summer weddings.

Gardenia

Gorgeous gardenias represent purity and joy—two things strongly associated with weddings. Fun fact: The gardenia scent is intoxicating.

Hydrangea

Moderately priced, colorful hydrangeas represent both understanding and "heartfelt emotions."

Lily

Fit for royalty, the lily represents majesty, truth and honor. The fragrant flower is perfect (and in season) for summer weddings.

Magnolia

Most magnolia trees grow in the South, but you can get these luxurious flowers that mean "love of nature" mostly anywhere during the spring and summer seasons.

Peony

Peonies stand for love, happiness and ambition, which is a sweet sentiment for your romantic day. They're in season during late spring.

Ranunculus

A lush, cascading ranunculus bouquet will say, in the language of flowers, "I am dazzled by your charms." Perfect for walking down the aisle to your partner. Also, they're available in nearly every color of the rainbow.

Rose

It's no wonder roses rank as the most beloved wedding flowers—they're a symbol of romance, love and beauty, are surprisingly affordable and are available year-round. Yes, their popularity definitely makes sense.

Sweet Pea

An old-fashioned favorite, sweet peas represent "pleasure" and are fairly fragrant. Use them for a late spring or early summer (that's when they're in season) garden wedding.

Zinnia

Affordable zinnias symbolize lasting affection, daily remembrance and also "thoughts of friends." If you still need bouquets for your beloved bridesmaids, this might be your flower.

Use The Knot's guide and your florist as a resource to devour the details of the most meaningful floral arrangements a bride-to-be has ever seen! Happy picking!