Psssst…don’t look now, but Valentine’s Day is coming. Start thinking creatively!

That’s right, Valentine’s Day is on its way! Have you thought about your plans for romance? That’s step one- think in advance.  Nothing’s worse than trying to impress your sweetie on short notice.  So now’s the time to start tossing that idea salad in your head.  Dinner at home? Romantic drive to a stargazing spot? Think about your loved one and what fits his or her style.  If he’s a pajamas and ice cream on the sofa kind of guy, a fancy 6 course chef’s tasting menu at Chez Fou-Fou might not be your best investment.  If she hates Valentine’s Day hoopla, skip the hearts-and-cupids type stuff but have a fun activity she loves lined up.  See how that works?  Now get those wheels turning in your creative, unique heads!

Be well, and love well.

-Dinah

Valentine's is more than red, white, hearts and cupids. Don't run with the crowd, think creatively to impress your Valentine!
Valentine’s is more than red, white, hearts and cupids. Don’t run with the crowd, think creatively to impress your Valentine!

Inauguration 2013 Wedding Planning Inspiration!

Wedding planning inspiration is everywhere! Brides of all political parties, heads up today and tomorrow for wedding ideas all around in celebration of the inauguration of President Barack Obama.  You’ll see elegant, classic goings on at parties and ceremonies (sound familiar?) galore.

The First Lady's Jason Wu gown in 2009 - very bridal!
The First Lady’s Jason Wu gown in 2009 – very bridal!

Tonight for example there’s a big candlelight reception at the National Building Museum.  NBC news is showing extensive photo coverage on their website, so as tonight and tomorrow progress, there are sure to be photos of dresses, decor, and details to ogle.  Tune in, turn on, and make notes!

Live well and love well.

-Dinah

PS: a live stream of all the good stuff will be available here  tomorrow (including the Commander In Chief’s Ball!)

My Little Flower Shop Celebrates National Hot Cocoa Day!

Today is National Hot Cocoa Day: a throw-it-together party theme if there ever was one.  And soooo perfect for the holidays.

Ingredients:

-bright colored tablecloth & contrasting paper plates & cups

-a coordinating wintery floral centerpiece

-a tin of cocoa,

We’re celebrating National Hot Cocoa Day at My Little Flower Shop!

-gallon of milk

-flavored liqueur (optional)

-Chocolate chip cookies, Oreos, and one other cookie of your choice

– Friends

– slips of paper & hat (for charades – seriously it’s so fun once you get everyone on board).

Directions

– use tablecloth & flowers to spruce up your space

– make the featured Hot Cocoa and serve with cookies in/on plates & cups, add liqueur if desired

– Add friends, play charades, have a ball!

Live well and love well.

-Dinah