Happy Hour: Pepper Basil Caipirinha
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Cachaca muddled
- 1 oz lime
- 1 bar spoon sugar
- 10 basil leaves
- 1 bar spoon white pepper corns
Garnish: Basil leave
Muddle 1 bar spoon of white pepper corns and add sugar, 1 lime quarters and basil leaves. Adde cachaca and 1 oz lime juice. Shake the mixture and strain into a rocks glass over ice. Garnish with sprig of basil. (Cocktail created by Michael Waterhouse, Devin Tavern, 363 Greenwich St, New York NY 10013) {Source: Cocktail Times}
Bridal Style: Angel Sanchez Spring 2010
{Images from Junebug Weddings}
Sugar Orchid Wedding Cake
Real Wedding Inspiration: Stacie + Geoff
The Bluebell Wood At Temple Newsam
Alas! Dear Anne Bronte, like her sister Emily, was of a melancholy nature. Having grown up amid the freedom of the Moors, they found it so stifling to be torn from that childhood world and plunged into work that stifled their spirits. Anne's lovely poem, "The Bluebell" begins with such wonder but, sadly, as always, she slips into her sadness again.
Today I walked among bluebells (on the photo - at Temple Newsam) and had such a sense of being without the past, without the future, without anything but the glory of the woods. I think that the Brontes' yearning for freedom was so chained to that lost world of Angria and the Great Glass Town that they created as children - a fantasy world that was a reality to them. If only they had thought that perhaps it was possible to create and live their beautiful dream in this world, they might not have always been so melancholy and sad. It's a beautiful poem:
A fine and subtle spirit dwells
In every little flower,
Each one its own sweet feeling breathes
With more or less of power.
There is a silent eloquence
In every wild bluebell
That fills my softened heart with bliss
That words could never tell.
Yet I recall not long ago
A bright and sunny day,
'Twas when I led a toilsome life
So many leagues away;
That day along a sunny road
All carelessly I strayed,
Between two banks where smiling flowers
Their varied hues displayed.
Before me rose a lofty hill,
Behind me lay the sea,
My heart was not so heavy then
As it was wont to be.
Less harassed than at other times
I saw the scene was fair,
And spoke and laughed to those around,
As if I knew no care.
But when I looked upon the bank
My wandering glances fell
Upon a little trembling flower,
A single sweet bluebell.
Whence came that rising in my throat,
That dimness in my eye?
Why did those burning drops distil --
Those bitter feelings rise?
O, that lone flower recalled to me
My happy childhood's hours
When bluebells seemed like fairy gifts
A prize among the flowers,
Those sunny days of merriment
When heart and soul were free,
And when I dwelt with kindred hearts
That loved and cared for me.
I had not then mid heartless crowds
To spend a thankless life
In seeking after others' weal
With anxious toil and strife.
'Sad wanderer, weep those blissful times
That never may return!'
The lovely floweret seemed to say,
And thus it made me mourn.
Agnes Lopez Tablescape Photoshoot
Via: Southern Weddings
Southern Weddings Snippet: What happens when a floral designer is given a bridesmaid dress and told to come up with a tablescape design to match the dress? The following gorgeous display of floral design and creativity from some amazing floral designers. The gorgeous images were taken by the very talented Agnes Lopez. Each floral designer was given a bridesmaid dress to use as inspiration for a tablescape design. These designs are truly stunning and proving once and for all that inspiration really can come from anything...even a dress!
Shoot Location: The Players Club Sawgrass
Makeup: Kimtasha Armstrong
Model: Chelsea with M.T.M Agency
Wardrobe: Bella Bridesmaid Jacksonville, Florida
Floral Designers: Rose of Sharon European Florist, Blooming Branches, Glenn Certain Studio, Liz Stewart Floral Design, Wilson's Limited
credits: All images {Agnes Lopez}, Row 1 {Rose of Sharon}, Row 2 {Blooming Branches}, Row 3 {Glenn Certain Studio}, Row 4 {Liz Stewart Floral Design}, Row 5 {Wilson's Limited}
Theme: A Kentucky Derby Party
The Kentucky Derby is coming up soon - Saturday, May 2nd – and even if you can’t make it to Churchill Downs yourself, this is SUCH a fun excuse to get together and throw a party at home!
You can go all out with a specific theme like Hats n’ Heels, Racing/Silks, Infield, etc - or keep it casual with simple cocktails, appetizers, and a good view of the flat screen! KentuckyDerbyParty.com has tons of great ideas for celebrating at home - from Derby-appropriate recipes by chef Bobby Flay to themed party ideas to Derby party invitations. (A few favorites from the invitation designs are pictured below.)
And if you’re REALLY looking for an excuse to party - here’s a good one: KentuckyDerbyParty.com is currently hosting the “Bring the Derby Home! Sweepstakes” where you can win a Derby party for you and 20 of your closest friends! The party is valued at over $3500 and includes a 32″ Toshiba Flat Screen! Just register on KentuckyDerbyParty.com by noon tomorrow (Friday, April 24th) to enter the sweepstakes - it only takes a minute!
Enagagement Shoot: Zola + Derrick
25 Most Romantic Honeymoon Hotspots!
Gorgeous bedrooms, sensuous bathrooms, spectacular scenery, exciting activities, exquisite cuisine, and a feeling of secluded privacy, are just a few of the features that make great destinations into outstanding honeymoon get-aways. After all, honeymoons are first and foremost romantic adventures and no matter where they happen the best ones have two things in common- beauty and a healthy dose of hedonism. With that in mind, here are my picks of the 25 most outstanding honeymoons destinations both near and far. Choose the spot that’s perfect for the two of you and revel in romance!
Hot spots in the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia
1) Salish Lodge and Spa, Snoqualmie, WA
3) Stephanie Inn, Cannon Beach, Oregon
On my first visit to the Stephanie Inn, I met a couple from England who asked me to take their photo. They were celebrating their 22nd wedding anniversary, and 22 consecutive years of staying at the Stephanie Inn. No wonder, with beautifully appointed rooms overlooking famous Haystack Rock, impeccable service, and world-class cuisine, this property is a perennial favorite of travelers all over the world.
4) The Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Whistler, BC
Hands down the best winter honeymoon destination in our neck of the woods. Ski out from this gorgeous property to miles of groomed runs and dozens of to-die-for shops and restaurants. Ski-in to your luxurious room, get cozy by the fire, and take advantage of the impeccable service and amenities this hotel has to offer.
5) The Cave B Inn and Winery at Sagecliffe, WA
900 feet above the Columbia River with views from every room, this unique property enjoys 300 days of sunshine and four distinct seasons. Visitors have their choice of Cavern Rooms which are literally carved into the cliff side, or Cliffehouses which are beautifully appointed accommodations with stunning views, vine covered decks, high curved ceilings, luxurious king-beds, and deep soaking tubs, (obviously we want you to reserve the latter).
The Hawaiian Islands - Perfect places in paradise
It’s hard to improve on perfection, but expect the staff at the Four Seasons Wailea to give it a try. This elegant, gorgeously appointed property is situated on one of the most romantic beaches in the world and is well-known for its extraordinary service and stunning design. Soak up the Maui sun by day and stroll the tiki torch lit paths by night. Book a spa treatment in the outdoor Hale or in their private couple’s spa suite, and wrap yourself in luxury.
Here’s a find that sure to please. This privately owned oasis just minutes from the beach, sits on a 20-acre lake and features a beautiful master bedroom and romantic bath with walk-in shower and sunken tub. It even has its own white sand beach, putting green and multi-tiered tree house. Steve Hunt, the gracious owner of this property and Kauai expert will love to help you customize your stay in paradise.
Choose your perfect get-away from one of these four stunning properties located on Kauai’s North Shore. Each secluded accommodation perched above gorgeous Secret Beach features panoramic views and designer details throughout, including ultra comfortable beds that you’ll never want to get out of. Watch the world go by from your own pool or hot-tub, or venture out to the world famous beaches just minutes from your doorstep.
The renowned Lodge at Keole on the historically significant Island of Lanai, is an opulent, charming resort with old-world plantation style. No request is too challenging for the accommodating staff that caters to your every whim. Enjoy world-class golf, beautiful beaches, at a look at Hawaii that is off the beaten path.
Ideally situated on the Big Island’s Kohala Coast, this eco-friendly property is a tropical home-away-from home. Surround yourself with waterfalls, flowers, and singing birds in the hotel’s soaring atrium then check into your ocean view room, or luxurious villa or bungalow. Spend your days sunbathing, snorkeling, playing tennis, or relaxing in one of the world’s leading spas.
Get an eagle’s eye view of the spectacular Big Sur coastline at this highly celebrated and unique property where you’ll find unparalleled service, rustic, elegant décor, and truly unforgettable accommodations. Every room has a breathtaking view, a private indoor or outdoor hot-tub, and a wood-burning fireplace. Kick back on your sumptuous king-sized bed nestled in the tree-tops and feel the stress of the world melt-away.
2) The Inn at Little Washington, Washington, Virginia
In a town of glitz and glam this is a place of surreal design and all out fun. Large suites are tastefully decorated and the service is superb. Take a gondola ride through the impressively reproduced “canals of Venice” and marvel at the Italian frescoes on the ceiling in the lobby as you make your way to one of the world-class shows that Vegas is famous for.
Just a hop away from two of America’s natural wonders, the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone National Park, this gem of a property has views that will leave you breathless. With two ski lifts out right out your door and hundreds of miles of superb cross-country skiing, this resort is a super cozy get-a-way during the winter and an exquisite destination for lovers of the great outdoors 365 days a year.
This window to paradise is an all suite beachfront hotel that envelopes you in beauty and comfort from the moment you arrive. The large, lush rooms have sumptuous beds and bathrooms, and the infinity pool is one of the most beautiful in Mexico.
A dramatic cliffside setting, sensuous decor, and the sounds of silence are just some of the perks that await you at this remarkable luxury hotel. Close to the busy tourist towns of Oaxaca and Zihuatenejo, La Casa Que Canta is a secluded destination unto itself, and one you’ll want to return to again and again.
This posh private estate features 6 gorgeous villas nestled in lush tropical gardens on 1,500 acres of pristine tropical paradise. With stunning ocean views from every room, a first-class restaurant, and a guest to butler ratio that will make you feel like a movie star. Enjoy access to the air conditioned beachfront gym, lighted tennis courts, horseback riding, and an unparalleled array of other activities and amenities.
Around the World –Favorite destinations around the globe
1) Bora Bora Nui Resort and Spa, Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Located off the main island on Motu To’opua, this sexy resort has the longest white sand beach of any resort in Bora Bora. You’ll love waking up in your sumptuous over-water-bungalow to a delicious breakfast served to you from an outrigger canoe then, diving into the crystal blue lagoon to discover a world of unparalleled beauty beneath you. Live out your Tarzan and Jane fantasizes here!
Hip, impeccably designed, and ideally located in the most engaging city of earth, this upscale hotel exudes the wow factor. The huge floating bed and sensual bathroom make it difficult for couples to leave the room, where an integrated lighting and sound system creates the ultimate in romantic ambience.
If you’re idea of camping is laying on a massage table in a opulently decorated, elevated tent, then this edgy, exciting resort should be perfect for the two of you. Travel by riverboat to this magical place where 3 countries meet for an once-in-a-lifetime experience.
With the Matterhorn out your window, and the world’s best skiing at your door, it seems like there would be no reason to stay indoors at this world renowned resort. However, with a large heated pool, steam baths, delicious cuisine, and comfortable, cozy bedroom, you just might be tempted. A shuttle train from Zermatt ensures there are no cars to clutter your view.
5) The Sea Cloud Cruises, Caribbean and Mediterranean Sea
Ahoy! Set sail on this 356 foot sailing ship that drops on-lookers jaws in every port. Designed for an heiress in an era gone by, this teak decked masterpiece is arguably the most beautiful boat ever built. Sit back and watch the 29 sails unfurl as you experience a magnificent cruise like no other. Be sure to ask for one of the original ten cabins with distinctive old-world charm.