The Guest With The Best

Tis the season to be jolly.  And party!

With the Christmas season in full swing, I am sure you have a list of parties and events to attend.  If you’ve ever hosted a party then you know how involved it can become.  As you make arrangements to attend the many holiday festivities on your calendar, make sure that you don’t show up empty handed.  In my opinion, showing up to a party without a hostess gift is like showing up to a potluck with brown and serve rolls…still in the pack.

Your friend or family member has gone to a lot of trouble to prepare an evening of fun and excitement with food and drinks aplenty.  Take this time to be the guest with the best and bring a token of gratitude to your host with the most.

Now I’m sure your host/hostess would love another oddly scented candle to add to their closeted collection, but let’s be a little more creative.  I have some great options for you that won’t break the bank, but will definitely get you on Santa’s nice list.  You are sure to be a hit and no one will ever guess that you’ve spent less than $20!

FOR YOUR “BOOZING” BUDDY

If you have that friend who is always showcasing new drinks and loves a glass of wine now and then, consider bringing a great bottle of wine in a creative display.

World Market has an impressive and inexpensive item that is the perfect gift to help make spirits bright.  This Faux Fur Wine Bag is a steal and would be a beautiful presentation of your planner’s favorite wine.

FOR YOUR “CHEESY” CHUM

Maybe they aren’t cheesy, but they do love a good fruit and cheese platter.  If your festive friend loves creative ways to display food and is known for a good spread, consider something functional for them to use at future parties.

This Slate Cheese Board is a fantastic way to display and label your tasty treats.  With stone chalk included, this ingenious board can be wiped clean and reused again and again.

FOR YOUR “OLD SOUL” SERVER

It’s no secret that I am a lover of all things vintage.  If you have a friend like me who loves the antiques, consider a hosting gift that taps into their obsession with the oldies while still providing them functional use.

With old world charm and classic elegance, these Vintage-Style Pie Servers will serve up more than just a slice of pie.  This set of 2 servers will be the perfect pairing for your old soul, baking buddy.

FOR YOUR “CUP PATROL” CRONY

We all have them, we just call them different names.  Whether your merry mate is anal, OCD, a neat freak, or just plain controlling, this is a practical and personalized gift that is sure to please.

Beyonce may want a ring on it, but if your host sure doesn’t.  To help your crony keep the circles off the coffee table, these Monogrammed Jute Coasters (set of 6) will be just what the doctor ordered…and maybe a prescription of Xanax to take the edge off.

FOR YOUR “CAFFEINATED” COMRADE

Hi, my name is Chad and I am addicted to coffee.  If your high-strung holiday planner is like me and loves a good cup of Joe, gift them something to enable their addiction.

This box set of 4 Geo Star Print Mugs are the ideal addition to your java loving friend’s collection.  Not only would these festive colors add excitement during the holidays, but could easily be used throughout the year.

From one end of the spectrum to the other, our party planning friends should be appreciated for gathering the group together for holiday cheer.  As you prep for your upcoming parties, think outside the box and show a little love to the one who started it all.  Hopefully these ideas have sparked your creativity and will make you the guest with the best.  Eat, drink, and stay stylish!

Some Like It Haute

Winter activities and holiday festivities are in full swing!  During this chilly time of the year there are always fun events happening around every turn.  Whether you’re out for an old fashion evening of caroling or taking a spin around an outdoor ice skating rink, you have every opportunity to encounter Old Jack Frost.  After a fun outdoor outing, it is a necessity to have a winter warm up beverage.  It’s easy to head around the corner to a coffee shop for a seasonal treat, but why not turn this need for warmth into a party at your place by inviting your cronies over for a hot beverage that is sure to help them thaw out from the winter winds.

This foolproof recipe makes a rich and robust Haute Chocolate Mix that is perfect for entertaining or to bag up, as pictured above, for party favors/office gifts.  This recipe is one that my mother has made from time to time and always hits the spot.  You can even turn it into a little Haute Toddy for the adults by adding something subtle like Kahlua.

Haute Chocolate Mix

• 10 cups Powdered Milk
• 1 large container of Cremora
• 1 large container of Nestle Quik
• 1 cup Powered Sugar
• 2 Tablespoons Cocoa

Mix together.
To serve, fill cup 1/2 full with powdered mixture and add boiling water.

Words cannot express how much I love this Haute Chocolate.  There is such a full body flavor, with an indescribable sweetness that completely evokes the feeling of lounging fireside in a rustic lodge nestled among the snow capped mountains.  Aside from being utterly amazing, this is also a budget friendly mixture to have around the house for guests or to divide up among friends, family, and coworkers.

So instead of drinking out, gather the group at your house for some games, gossip, and cup of greatness.  Having friends over for the holidays doesn’t have to be elaborate and stressful.  Toss some cookies in the oven and bring the water to boil and you are set to combat the cold while you stay stylish!

Take a Bite out of Christmas

There is truly something magical about Christmas!

As I drive down Main Street in my small town and see the twinkling lights adorning the lamp posts; as I stroll past the North Pole displays in the mall centered around Jolly Old Saint Nick; as I watch yet another Lifetime Holiday movie “for the first time;” as I read the words of my amazing god-daughter’s letter to Santa asking him to give all her gifts to kids that don’t have anything for Christmas…all of these things bring the magic of Christmas alive in my heart. This magic so easily takes me back to my childhood. It seems like only yesterday that I tossed and turned in bed on Christmas Eve, hoping that Santa hadn’t forgotten something on my list. It was just a mere moment ago that I awakened to the smell of sausage balls, country ham, and breakfast casserole (the Steed’s really love pork!) on Christmas morning.

Nostalgia! I could wander down Memory Lane for hours, but that wouldn’t get this blog post completed.   I say all that about the magic of being a child at Christmas to introduce you to an amazing holiday goodie. It is not Christmas until the Steed kitchen has a batch of Tiny Christmas Bites on display for continual snacking.  I proudly present to you The Stylish Steed’s favorite childhood Christmas treat.

Christmas can officially begin!  This recipe, handwritten and folded on notebook paper, is tucked away in a ragged cookbook at my parents house.  The amazing mouthfuls of Christmas are super easy to make and I highly suggest you whip up a batch…like, this weekend!

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup butter
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 cups chopped pecans
• 1 cup chopped dates
• 14 oz. shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup candied cherries, chopped (I prefer 1/4 cup red and 1/4 green just to be festive)
• 1/2 cup candied pineapple, chopped
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp almond extract

Directions:

Preheat oven to 325*.  Mix together butter and graham cracker crumbs.  Add sweetened condensed milk and remaining ingredients, stirring to blend.  Drop by 1 tablespoon scoops into paper lined miniature muffin pans.  Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.  Cool.

Yields 6 dozen (those will last about two days…if you practice self-control)

Think of a modern twist on a Christmas fruitcake.  These tasty bites are the perfect combination of gooey inside and crispy outside.  I could talk forever about these, but you don’t have time to read…you have to get to the grocery store for dates and candied cherries and pineapples because I know you don’t have any at home.  I don’t really think those are staple pantry items for most of humanity.

As we enter this 6th day of December, I hope you are already feeling the Christmas spirit and are looking forward to cherished time with friends and family.  If you are planning for another stylish Christmas, these Tiny Christmas Bites are the perfect addition to any gathering throughout the season.  As you deck the halls, don your stylish holiday apparel, and take to walking in a winter wonderland, don’t forget a tasty treat along the way.  I hope these evoke feelings and memories of the magic of Christmas for you as well!  Merry Christmas and stay stylish!

Give It To Me Good…Real Good

What’s that old saying? It’s better to give than to receive?  That may be the case, but it’s even better give, and give it real good!

December is upon us!  The dishes have been put away from the Thanksgiving feast, the swelling has gone down in your feet from the hours of Black Friday shopping, and Santa Claus is on his way.  I trust you have had a wonderful time with family and friends and have taken the time to count your blessings and realize all the things for which you have to be thankful!

With Christmas right around the corner, the quest for the perfect gifts is on the minds of all.  However, that quest doesn’t have to lead you to packed out stores and cluttered highways of brake happy drivers.  The Stylish Steed has a great shopping guide for everyone on your list and you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your own home.  Check out these affordable options for those “hard to buy for” friends on your list.

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THE STYLISH MAN…

Everyone has that guy on their list…he’s always dapper and dashing and has everything he wants.  Fret not though, and spend not!  These options will be sure to impress your stylish beau, but will not break the bank.

What Salt + Pepper does for your food, Salt + Dapper does for your man.  Add these seasonings to your stylish man for $15 or less.  Salt + Dapper is an awesome company with a huge selection of items that are perfect gift options.  Whether it’s a replaceable watch band, a colorful tie bar, or the ever popular lapel flower, these eye catching items will definitely please the picky man in your life.

THE FASHIONISTA…

Call her a diva, call her dramatic, call her a slave to fashion…regardless the label, she’s on your list this year!  Even though she may be difficult to buy for, these fashion forward items will be perfect for your friend with the flair.

Whether it’s pops of color with Mary Kay’s Nail Lacquer Trio, stackable TOMS bracelets from Target, or a funky, printed pouch from Luru Home you are sure to maintain the Best Friend status with any of these options all under $15.

THE TECHIE…

Gadget galore and all the new toys.  If you’ve got a friend who is always talking techie to you, these are the perfect ideas!

All these items from J. Crew will be sure to satisfy the techiest of friends.  With a personalized leather phone case, a silicon speaker amplifier, or the wooden phone stand, these gifts are sleek and savvy and priced to please at $40 or less.

THE ENTERTAINER…

Every party has a planner and they love to have unique things at their events.  If you have a friend who is always extending an invitation to party at their place, these gift ideas are the perfect match.

Choose one these items and you’ll secure the top spot on the guest list for this party planner pal.  Help create a signature drink with these nontraditional drink mixes from William-Sonoma, add flavor to some dishes with Stonehouse‘s infused olive oil gift set, or create the ultimate party scene with a set of six of Clinton Kelly’s Effortless Table dessert plates.  Any of these eye catching items can be yours for $30 or less.

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Feeling relieved, stylish ones?  I hope this gift guide has removed some holiday stress.  Wipe your brow, pour yourself a beverage, and hit these websites to find some fantastic (and affordable) gifts for those difficult people on your list.  So here’s to the first of many “Merry Christmas” greetings from The Stylish Steed.  I hope you are as excited as I am about the Christmas season.  Here’s to another season of joy and wonder!  Stay Stylish!

A Stylish Steed Christmas – Day 10

Can you believe that it is already Day 10?!?!  The Twelve Days of Christmas are almost complete.  I hope that you have found some awesome things that you can incorporate into your holiday season.

With so much family time approaching, you are bound to have some quality gatherings around the dinner table.  Amidst the wonderful food and the seasoned conversations, what better way to bring in holiday cheer than with a beautiful tablescape display.  Creating a gorgeous spread on your dining room table gives beauty to your home, even when dinner is not the main event.

On the tenth day of Christmas The Stylish Steed gave to me, decor for my guests when dining.

I have created three different designs to fit the many needs of all of you out there.  You may find some pieces from each design that you would like to incorporate together.  Make sure that your design is congruent with your colors in the dining room.  Your tablescape will look best if all the color compliment one another.

The Rustic Look
Now you know I couldn’t create a tablescape without designing one in my favorite look.  The rustic tablescape goes perfect with my dining room colors and preexisting decor.

Beginning with a burlap feed sack as my foundation, I insert some boxes underneath to create different heights for my display.  Just like clothes hide a multitude of sins, your table covering will also hide your display secrets.

I decided to create a custom focal point this year from my holiday display.  I am in love with this rustic tree made from all things that are truly southern: magnolia cones, magnolia leaves, and cotton.

This piece was so easy to create!  I simply hot glued the magnolia cones to a purchased cone tree.  Because of the irregular shape of the magnolia cones, I inserted some leaves to fill in the holes.  Lastly, I adorned the top of the tree with cotton.  To bring in height and style, I placed this homemade creation on an old piece of luggage.

This piece could easily be duplicated using pine cones.  It is adaptable to fit your creative needs.

Another great piece in this design is an old coke crate.  These are pretty easy to find at flea markets and antique malls.  They can serve a multitude of purposes and have such history.

Inside the coke crate I placed a lighting element, some purchased ornaments, on old vintage inspired bell from At West End, and some rustic pears created by wrapping old light bulbs in jute.  Scatter some natural elements like the magnolia leaves and pine cones around and your table is complete.  I know I’m a little partial, but I absolutely love this display.  I can’t wait to put it out for real in a few weeks!

The Traditional Look
Some people are traditionalists at heart.  They can’t help it.  It’s nothing but turkey and dressing on Thanksgiving, cake and ice cream on your birthday, and RED and GREEN at Christmas.  If you are one of those, it’s fine.  I’m not mad at it.  I think it’s great to have those people in your life.  So this ones for you, traditionalists!

This tablescape screams CHRISTMAS!  Nothing but red, green, white, and an abundance of holiday elements.

I decided that glass pieces would serve as my centerpiece.  After placing a beautiful tall red vase with a vibrant green jar, I filled a clear glass vase with mini marshmallows to add to the texture of the design.  I brought all three pieces together by tying a bow on the marshmallow vase.

I balanced the large vase full of ornaments on the right with a great golden tree with jeweled details.  This gem of a find was less than $10 at Pier1 after Christmas last year.  Take advantage of those “after Christmas” bargains!  You can find great items like ribbon, decor, and wrapping paper for a fraction of the price.  Put it away in storage for next year…it’s not like it’s going to spoil.

After the placement of some ornaments and fresh greenery, I am ready for those reindeer to pause on my roof!

The Whimsical Look
This look is so much fun.  It’s vibrant colors and whimsical look makes me smile when I see it!

*Remember earlier when I told you to bring in colors that matched your dining room?  This is why!  Please disregard the clashing of color in this photo.  Concentrate only on the table design.  I repeat, focus only on the table design!

After draping my pink fabric over a white tablecloth, I was ready to build my display.  I opted to flank the centerpiece with matching over-sized wine glasses.  I filled the glasses with ornaments and allowed them to be statement pieces on their own.

The centerpiece trees are handmade and cost less than $10 combined.  The same tree that was used above was used on these.  After painting a solid coat of paint on each cone, I secured the glistening glitter with spray adhesive.  Elevating one of the trees on a clear candlestick holder keeps the table interesting.

Last but not least, I draped two different ribbons around the tablescape to add dimension and color.  A great printed pink and an iridescent silver were the perfect combination for this design.

Now that your table is ready for guests all you need is a dinner fit for a king!  I hope you enjoy creating a tablescape that will bring your family and friends together during the holidays.  I had such a fun time creating these and hope you will too.  Please don’t hesitate to share photos of your own creations!  I would love to see your Christmas creativity in action!  Until next time, stay stylish, my little elves!

Also….if you need some great ideas for that dinner, check out my awesome friend Rebekah Faulk.  She has the perfect herb roasted pork that will have all your guests asking for seconds.