Do Something a little different – Create Your Very Own ‘Choccuterie’ Board
Indulge in Some Chocolate Pairing with the help of Fames Chocolates
As with everything in life – there’s an art to pairing chocolate.
The Key to Chocolate Pairing:
Chocolate & Cheese – since pungent cheeses overwhelm the flavor of chocolate, pair them with soft and creamy cheeses like Brie or Gouda.
Chocolate & Nuts – hazelnuts are the most common type of nut used to enhance the flavor of chocolate but there are some other ones out there that are just as good! Macadamia nuts paired with chocolate are quite a delicacy while pistachios are very compatible with any kind of chocolate.
Chocolate & Fruits – pairing dark chocolate with very sweet fruits like banana, mangoes and figs balances the flavor and the paring compliments each other. Milk chocolate works with a variety of fruits, whether the fruit is sweet or tart.
Inspiration for Chocolate Pairing
You can pair chocolates with other food items such as coffee, wine, and cheese to enhance or compliment that chocolate’s flavor. Chocolate pairs really well with fruits and cheeses.
Try pairing your favorite dark chocolate with some soft goat cheese and some raspberries. You can also pair chocolate with figs and walnuts – go crazy!
Do you feel inspired to create a ‘Choccuterie’ board? Enjoy!
Give chocolate-eating a new twist with a chocolate charcuterie board or as I like to call it – ‘Choccuterie’ board!
Chocolate tastes amazing with anything! Don’t forget a salty twist!
A guide to what’s inside that “Box of Chocolates”
So you can’t get enough of chocolates, but want to avoid the cough-syrup tasting ones? Try looking at the delicate details on your piece of candy. Chocolate stringing is a technique used by chocolatiers to make little designs on a piece of chocolate indicating what’s inside. The strings are drawn by hand or by running chocolates through an enrober. Though this practice started for decoration, it has become convenient for those who’d like to know what flavor they’ll be tasting when picking up a piece of chocolate.
Now let’s get to decoding!
Square Candy – usually contains coconut, fudge, marshmallow, peanut butter, or nougat The peanut butter one may have a P stringed on to it and a nougat one has an N.
Lemon will have an L on it, R is for raspberry.
Cream chocolates will also have a letter from the alphabet decorated on them: V is for vanilla cream, M for maple cream, and B for buttercream.
Who knew a box of chocolates isn’t actually full of surprises?! The little pieces of candy simply have to be decoded.
Not every box of chocolate will be easy to decode since various companies use different methods. Some may print the flavors on the box while others may use letter-molds instead of stringing by hand but there’s always a way to know what flavor you’ll be indulging in.
Chocolates by Fames incorporate some of the best techniques from the cultures of Germany, the Mediterranean, and Brooklyn into each scrumptious chocolate morsel.
These gourmet chocolates are created with elite ingredients and meticulously made in small batches. They will be a perfect choice for any occasion.
Mothers play a critical role in our lives, providing us with love, support, and guidance throughout our childhood and beyond. They often make significant sacrifices to ensure our well-being and happiness, and Mother’s Day is a chance to recognize and appreciate those efforts. This year, why not give your mom something memorable? We’ve got some memorable Mother’s Day gifting ideas that are sure to make your mom smile!
Mother and I love to go on adventures and have fun together. A great way to give your mother a memorable Mother’s Day is by inviting her to a tea party or brunch in her honor. Make it a special day and get the whole family involved! The more people you have in on the fun, the better!
Be creative when planning this event because it will make things more memorable for everyone involved. If you’re planning on hosting a tea party this Mother’s Day, make sure to include a selection of finger sandwiches! Assorted sweet and savory pastries (eclairs, cookies) -Fresh fruit (strawberries and grapes are great options), and of course… TEA! My mothers love to set a table so don’t forget the tablescape and linens! I was so inspired after finding this blog article: 25 Tea Party Ideas for a Fun Grown-Up Tea Party on the Spruce. I curated an Amazon list full of Tea Party must-haves for a one-stop shop for this Mother’s Day experience!
Accessorize your Mothers Day Tablescape with the ease of Amazon! I’ve linked all of my favorite accessories to add an extra element of “wow” to your Mother’s Day table on our Amazon storefront.
Fun Tea Cups ~ Tea Pot ~ Small Vases ~ Candle Holders ~ 3 Tiered Cake Stand ~ Cloth Napkins
Special Delivery
The day of honoring all mothers in the United States began with one woman, Anna Jarvis. Anna Jarvis held a memorial for her mother in West Virginia in 1908, considered the first Mother’s Day celebration, and became an official U.S. holiday in 1914. White carnations were handed out during the first Mother’s Day memorials because they were Anna Jarvis’ favorite flowers! Like Anna Jarvis, my favorite way to honor my mom and let her know that I am thinking of her is to surprise her with a bouquet of her favorite flowers! She loves fresh flowers and enjoys playing around with her arrangements.
That’s why we love the experience of The Bouquet Box. It is the first-of-its-kind, DIY-curated floral arrangement that gives you step-by-step instructions on creating beautiful arrangements at home. If your mom loves to create beautiful arrangements this gift box is for her!
Memorable Gifts: Jewelry, Framed Memories
Sonia in her favorite Julie Vos Jewelry that she wears daily.
If your mom is the type who loves to wear jewelry, a memorable Mother’s Day gifting idea might be a piece from her favorite designer. A favorite jewelry line at our house is Julie Vos. Their statement pieces are perfect for daily wear and the quality is exceptional.
A framed photo of the two of you could also be an excellent choice if you want to remember the good times together. Capturing a special moment in time and presenting it beautifully and meaningfully is so thoughtful and personal. Seeing this moment preserved in a frame can bring joy and happiness to your mother every time she looks at it. I love this beautiful mother-of-pearl frame from Neiman Marcus. So many great options are available at all price ranges and styles depending on what suits you best.
Honoring Mothers who have Passed
I would be remiss to not include a thoughtful idea to honor those mothers who have passed. My Grandmother passed on over 10 years ago and I know that not a day goes by that my mother doesn’t think of her or hear her voice in her head. This Mother’s Day might I suggest honoring those mothers who have passed on by committing a random act of kindness? It’s a beautiful way to pay respect to your mother, and also make someone else’s day. Give back to the community in some way, whether it be volunteering, donating to a cause that is close to your heart, or picking up a stranger’s tab. It’s a great way to brighten your day.
Mother’s Day is a day of celebration and gratitude for all the things your mother has done for you. Acknowledging and celebrating the people who have made our lives so wonderful is important. I am blessed to be able to spend so much time with my mom right now. What a gift! After all, what mom really wants for Mother’s Day is quality time with You! I hope these memorable Mother’s Day gifting ideas will help inspire you when you are honoring your Mother on May 14th. For more Mother’s Day inspiration check out last year’s post on Creating A ‘Choccuterie’ Board! Enjoy!
Gifting newly engaged couples is a wonderful way to show your love and support during this milestone in their life. While traditional gifts are always appreciated, introducing unique out-of-the-box gift ideas can add an extra touch of thoughtfulness and creativity to your gesture. You can send them an adventurous activity, or a personalized keepsake, such as a custom portrait or a monogrammed item. Or even a delectable treat like the personalized champagne bottle cookies from Empire Cake. Either way, your gift will be a cherished memory that the couple will treasure for years to come. Think beyond the expected and make your gift stand out! That way you can truly celebrate the joy and excitement of the couple’s engagement.
Instead of going for the traditional home decor gift, consider these unique engagement gift ideas
A personalized address stamp can be a wonderful engagement gift for couples. It adds a touch of elegance and uniqueness to their wedding preparations. Plus, they can use it for their save-the-dates or wedding invitations. With customizable options, couples can showcase their names or initials, symbolizing their commitment and upcoming union. This personalized stamp can also be a practical gift as it simplifies the process of addressing envelopes for wedding-related correspondence. Furthermore, the stamp can serve as a lasting keepsake. Also, it’s a great reminder of their special day and the excitement surrounding the couple’s engagement.
Estelle Colored Glass offers a unique and creative option for an engagement gift: their beautiful hand-blown colored glassware. Traditionally, champagne flutes are given to celebrate newly engaged couples. Estelle offers stunning champagne flutes in modern and elegant styles. Unlike more traditional crystal options, Estelle’s colored glasses are a contemporary and chic choice. Plus, they offer a wide range of beautiful hues to choose from. The combination of gorgeous colors and clean silhouettes makes their glassware a perfect engagement gift. Best of all, newly engaged couples can use and cherish these gifts for years to come.
Giving yummy treats as an engagement gift is a wonderful way to celebrate the newly engaged couple in a unique and delicious way. One out-of-the-box idea is to give personalized champagne bottle cookies with the couple’s names. Try these cookies from Empire Cake, found on the Over the Moon website. They’re not just delectable treats, but also a creative representation of the celebration. The cookies are beautifully crafted and customizable and add an extra touch of personalization to the gift. Empire Cake is known for its high-quality ingredients and expert baking. So, the couple can indulge in these tasty treats and savor the moment of their engagement. It’s a sweet and thoughtful gift that will surely delight the couple and make their engagement celebration even more memorable.
Try sending flowers from The Bouqs to a newly engaged couple. It’s not only a thoughtful gift, but also a reliable and beautiful choice. The Bouqs is known for their fresh and high-quality blooms and ensure that each bouquet is stunning and fresh. They offer a wide selection of exquisite flower arrangements and customizable options. But best of all, The Bouqs allows you to find the perfect arrangement to match the couple’s style and taste. Additionally, what sets The Bouqs apart is their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. They always ensure that their flowers are sourced responsibly! By choosing The Bouqs, you can show your care for both the couple and the environment. Which makes it an excellent choice for flower delivery.
The Adventure Challenge offers couples a scratch-off guide to unique and thrilling experiences that they might not have thought of before. As an ideal gift, it adds excitement and an element of surprise to relationships, especially for newly engaged couples. With each adventure, couples can explore new places, activities, and hidden gems, building a stronger foundation for their future together. The Adventure Challenge fosters exploration and deeper connection in relationships, making it the perfect choice for a meaningful and memorable gift. Use our code: STYLEBEYONDAGE10 for 10% off your perchase at checkout. and let the adventures begin!
Bridal Shower Gifts
The bridal shower is a special occasion dedicated to spoiling the bride and celebrating her upcoming wedding. It’s the perfect opportunity to shower her with unique and luxurious gifts that she may not think to buy for herself.
One fabulous idea is to gift the bride-to-be with wedding-inspired intimates, such as a beautiful white or cream nightie and matching robe, along with some fluffy slippers to wear on the day of her wedding. Adding a touch of personalization, a jewelry box with her new initials is a thoughtful keepsake, where she can store her beautiful jewelry for years to come. Another practical and delightful gift idea is a fun tote, perfect for her upcoming honeymoon. Finally, traditional kitchenware is always a hit, as it sets the couple up for their new life together. These special and meaningful gifts will surely make the bride-to-be feel loved and cherished as she prepares for her wedding day.
Make the bride-to-be feel special with these thoughtful bridal shower gift ideas
A custom bridal hanger is a perfect example of a thoughtful gift that the bride-to-be will love and treasure. This specific hanger can be personalized with her name, as well as the wedding date or other special message in a beautiful and elegant way. It adds a special touch to the wedding photos and keeps the bride’s dress looking neat and organized before the ceremony. Whether it is given as a bridal shower gift or as a surprise on the day of the wedding, a custom hanger like this is sure to be cherished by the bride for years to come. It is an ideal way to add a personal touch and make the bride feel special on her big day.
When it comes to finding the perfect, luxurious gift for our bride-to-be, look no further than the specialty website Over the Moon. This exclusive site is dedicated to providing beautiful intimates and lingerie specifically designed for this special occasion. When selecting a gift from this site, it’s important to choose items that are made with high-quality fabrics, such as gorgeous cotton or creamy silk. These luxurious materials not only feel amazing against the skin but also add a touch of elegance to the overall gift. Whether it’s a stunning silk nightgown, a delicate lace bralette, or a set of silky pajamas, these beautiful intimates will make the bride-to-be feel pampered and celebrated. By gifting her with something from “Over the Moon,” you’re ensuring that she receives a truly special and thoughtful gift, one that perfectly matches the significance of the occasion. Pictured: Frankie Lace Boned Balconette Bra, Women’s Mulberry White Silk Luxe Long Robe with Feathers, and Anna Cotton V-Neck Nightdress all from Over the Moon.
A personalized jewelry box is a perfect thoughtful gift for the bride-to-be, especially with her new initials. This is a gift that she will cherish for a lifetime. With beautiful monogramming, the recipient will feel extra special and appreciated. This jewelry box also provides a safe home for valuable pieces and is a great addition to any decor with its classic and timeless design. We love that Mark & Grahm have so many to choose from. I personally love this travel case that she can take on her honeymoon with her!
Wedding Gifts Make their big day even more memorable with these unique wedding gift ideas
When it comes to newlyweds, the most memorable and cherished gifts are the ones that go beyond the traditional registry. Think outside the box and consider going over the top with special gifts that will create lasting memories. A romantic getaway is a perfect out-of-the-box idea. This offers the couple a chance to relax and celebrate their new journey together. Alternatively, gifting cash specifically for their honeymoon allows them to tailor their own experience and create unforgettable moments. Try travel experiences. Such as a hot air balloon ride or a cooking class in a destination they’ve always dreamed of visiting. Provide unique opportunities for the couple to bond and create lifelong memories. These thoughtful and non-traditional gifts can showcase your generosity. Plus, it demonstrates your commitment to helping the newlyweds start their marriage on an exceptional note.
Finding the perfect gift for couples can be a challenge, but the key is to think outside the box. From engagement gifts to bridal shower presents, and all the way to wedding gifts, choosing unique gift ideas that are personalized will make your gift truly memorable. Consider the couple’s interests, style, and needs when selecting a gift, and go the extra mile to add a personal touch. This wedding season, make your gift stand out and choose a thoughtful and one-of-a-kind present that they can treasure for years to come. Show them how much you care by gifting something truly special and tailored just for them.
For more unique gift ideas, check out our blog here!
It’s rodeo time in Texas. Well, that’s every day here actually! The history of rodeo is a blend of cultural traditions and upbringings with origins from the Spaniards who colonized the area. A mixture of Anglo and Spanish Mexican cultures led to the birth of the American cowboy era in the 1800s.
Did you know that women competed in many events in the 1930s rodeo? During this time they competed against men and won in a variety of events including bronc riding steer roping and of course trick and fancy rope riding. After the tragic death of a female contestant, everything changed. You can learn more about the history of the American Rodeo in this article.
From over-the-top logomania to my well-worn twice-dyed Lucchese boots, everything goes at the rodeo!
The Landings: A resort-style island community minutes from Savannah Georgia
Are you looking to make a change? I was introduced to an island community just a short drive from Savannah Georgia where you and your family can live a life full of adventure.
This is not the retirement community of old. With a premier wellness center, two deep water marinas, five distinct clubhouses , six championship golf courses and 31 tennis courts this is the perfect place to enjoy an active lifestyle. Bonus points for beautiful Savannah Georgia being a short drive away. Read more about The Landings on my Instagram post
Enjoy the life you have always dreamed of! In my case sailing!
Don’t forget the Tart cosmetics! This one is my go-to palette and have you tried the eyeliner? Liquid on one side for a great cat eye (I need help with that) but on the other side, a soft pencil to save the day. Shop makeup palettes at Tarte Cosmetics
Jewelry Ideas for Valentines
Valentines is fast approaching and what could make a better gift than some Lagos jewelry. With everyday pieces, you can mix and match it’s a gift you will wear daily! Shop Lagos Jewelry Here
For customizable travel-friendly jewelry, MyTalia is my favorite
Not All Healthy Choices are Obvious
Choosing what we eat is so critical to our wellbeing and there is so much information out there. For me I keep it simple. If its fruit I stick to berries they are the lowest in sugar. I can’t tell you when the last time was I ate a banana.
For nuts, it’s almonds over walnuts. It’s not that they’re not good for you they are just lower in fat Carrots are typically off my list but I used to love the ones I dug out of my mothers garden! Nothing is ”off the table” but when I can, those are my choices.
A Cautionary Tale About Skin Care
For the last few years, I have been using oils on my face. In Montana, it was very dry especially in the winter. When I got to Dallas I kept that up and then I started seeing on my forehead this weird little growth. It turns out it was a sebaceous gland gone awry probably from too many rich products on my oily skin. I showed you on one of my stories I had to have it cut out. Just beware of the richness of the products you are putting on your face especially if you have oily skin like mine. You can read more about face oils in this Self Article. I also wrote a blog a while back where I talked about why I stopped using coconut oil as a moisturizer, which you can read here
I am a glass-half-full kind of gal, I joke and say “If I need my glass to be fuller, I’ll pour it in a smaller cup!” All that, tongue-in-cheek of course. I never understood depression. I thought you could “snap out of it.” ...
The Key to Chocolate Pairing:
