MOI XOXO

WHAT: The Art Society of Long Beach is having its launch party this Friday! Come enjoy an evening of photography, film shorts, poetry, music and more.

WHERE: The Village Tasting Room & Wine Bar is a casual and friendly wine tasting experience in Long Beach. They serve great wine, beer, and martinis, gourmet cheeses, desserts, and other specialty foods.

250 W. Ocean Blvd, Suite B
Long Beach, CA 90802

WHEN: April 18, 2008, 7 - 11PM

FREE ADMISSION! (21+ only!)

**Dress to impress! Black and white attire, smart/casual
email your r.s.v.p. to info@theartsociety.com

AFTER PARTY: Dancing & more drinks at Ripples, Long Beach’s hottest Friday night girl bar!

Moi xoxo

Judging by the number of wine ads in the papers over the last few days Easter is becoming a major drinking occasion for many of us. I personally do not need a holiday to drink but for those who do, here is a delicious cocktail recipe for Easter morning!

The “Diva D” Mimosa

- 1 shot of Stoly Mandarin or Grey Goose vodka {Warning} Only substitute with Absolut if you really want an absolute headache}
- splash of orange juice
- top off with only Vive Cliquot or Krug Champagne.

You will thank moi if you use the suggested brands! You will love it!

I also have a fabulous recipe for buttermilk pancakes that pairs beautifully with this drink. *Stay tuned*

Moi xoxo

I love to entertain especially outside! I like to toss around extra large pillows from Shabby Chic so my guests can sunbathe at the same time. I prefer a late afternoon at home setting with simple decor, fresh food, and a signature dessert. Here I serve up my tips for the perfect spring/summer party!

Hosting: Always seat your guests next to someone familiar on one side and then someone new on the other. No serious conversations ..laughter is key!

Seating: A chic party favor to serve as the dinner place card is a disposable camera with your guests name scribbed on it. I would even ask to see the outtakes once they develop the film

Tapletop: I am a fan of drink umbrellas and fruity drinks during spring/summer and I adore personalized paper napkins and plates with cheeky designs and humor. My favorite ones right now say, Who Invited All These Tacky People? I love it!

Flowers: Hyacinths because they are fragrant as a scented candle

Menu: Steak and fresh veggies

Dessert: Chocolate souffle

As your guests arrive in the late afternoon serve them this delicate lemon grass flavored ice tea. My mom taught me how to make it! Enjoy!

Rinse 1 stalk of fresh lemon grass and cut into 2 inch lengths

Crush with the flat side of a large spoon or knife

Boil 5 cups of water, 1/2 cup sugar, and 7 thin slices of ginger along with the tea

Take off heat and add 5 bags of green tea

Let sit for 5 minutes, then toss the tea bags. Let cool for 30 minutes

Pour into fine strainer into a pitcher. Cover and chill in fridge not freezer for 2 hours

Pour into water glasses filled with crushed ice
Moi xoxo

Here is something I did get under my *gypsy* decorated Christmas tree! 2007 was the year of entertaining as I gave a ton of dinner parties & gatherings. 2008 is no exception! I took one look at the cover of this book and knew I had to have it. “Park Avenue Potluck” by Florence Fabricant is chock full of recipes and ideas from famed hostesses, including Coco Kopelman, James Gregory, and Anne Grauso. Portions of the proceeds went to cancer research.

I shall make baked halibut for the next gathering!

Moi xoxo