It is necessary to simplify a menu when there is less time to prepare. The goal is to create a delicious meal with a stunning presentation; the entertaining concept is to not be exhausted from the preparation. Over the years, … Continue reading →

It may be cold outside; but, warmth emanates from the table with a well prepared soup. We all have our favorite soup; it’s the presentation that captures the special moment. That delightful glee is created because someone took the extra … Continue reading →

January builds momentum; so, roll up your sleeves and ready yourself for gatherings to get down to business. Social groups merge to focus groups. Inspire your planning/study team with a networking ring of tenderloin sandwiches. It’s a work while you … Continue reading →

It is great to reminisce about the last year; but, more importantly, I feel it is more important to ready ourselves for the year ahead. Planning ahead is to be commended and planning is an attitude and perspective. The outlook … Continue reading →

The holidays glow with joyous camaraderie and social merriment. Tchaikovsky’s” Nutcracker Suite” continually offers nostalgic memories while sharing the traditions of Christmas with the youngest generation. Traditions of sugarplums offer fantasy cuisine and sugarplums brighten any table design. Enjoy my … Continue reading →

Garnishes add the extra touch to finish off alcoholic beverages. Soak olives overnight in flavored vodka to enhance a martini. Clean a trim the ends of celery. Overnight soak the cut ends of the celery in vodka. By nature the … Continue reading →

“Tis the Season” to showcase heirloom glassware, including the forgotten punch bowl. Instead of filling the lovely cut glass sphere with predictable punch, be clever and make a punch bowl cake. Punch bowl cakes can be as versatile as one’s … Continue reading →

In music, chromaticism is a compositional technique that adds to tonality. Entertainment skill also encompasses chromaticism since it requires a multi-faceted design to be created from a basic entertainment composition. Besides the date, time and place, I like to start … Continue reading →

Yes, your table is your Thanksgiving tribute; so, make it festive. Select colors for a grand trifecta design such as the color coordination utilizing three hues made of wheat, auburn and maze to connect the tablecloth, napkins and centerpiece. Another … Continue reading →

The tastes of autumn are not complete without multiple styles of turkey meals. The wholesomeness of individual pot pies adds to the warmth and hospitality generated from one’s kitchen. One of my favorite pot pies is made with turkey. Try … Continue reading →

Exploring the Alsace region of France is delightful in the late autumn. The mean high temperature for the region is 48˚F or 9ºC in November and the holiday shopping is delightful amongst cobblestone streets. Old world craftsmanship is showcased with … Continue reading →

The spectrum of autumn colors from copper, yellow ocher, crimson help us to indulge in the season’s splendor. We enjoy bringing these outdoor hues inside as we gather with our friends and family. This season also builds a crescendo of … Continue reading →

Whether the dare is do something that is more harvest oriented or more Halloween spooky, during October many of us try to entertain with new seasonal recipes. The food selections should always reflect the theme of the gathering. I recommend … Continue reading →

Asparagus inspires culinary experimentation. The feathery crowns dress up any plate. Preferences may be the regal white spears to the popular green stalks. Asparagus’ slow growth cycle helps to create a longing for its yield. As the temperature cools down, … Continue reading →

Ah, autumn wine and cheese…a reward from the heat of the summer. Pick your picnic spot, gather friends and spread out your beautiful and tasty presentations which should include my version of a chilled cheese pie – Quiche Fromage Veronique. … Continue reading →