- 7:00 AM
- 5 Comments
{Printable by Triple Max Tons}
Now, scrounging up some super cool and inexpensive wrapping paper has never been so easy. Just raid your local grocery store's brown bag stash and decorate it with colored ribbon, yarn, ornaments, etc. I am also loving the map-as-wrap idea!
- 9:27 AM
- 1 Comments
I finally did it. I took the plunge, and chopped off a healthy dose of rather unhealthy and stringy strands. It's funny how hair can act like a grown woman's security blanket. I am so glad I made this change, and am having a fun time whipping my new 'do around.
Wrapped some Christmas gifties in Scandinavian-esque paper from Ikea. Of course, having stated my current adoration of pom poms, I topped the gifts with handmade fluffy yarn poms in red, navy and white hues.
I am sadly not a huge writer of the written word...you know, the kind that involves a pen, paper, and a stamp??? It's really upsetting. Regardless of that fact, I had to snap up these awesome cards during my trip to San Francisco.
Getting ready to head back to this on Thursday. Blizzardy, blustery and grey-ish blue Boston. That is actually one of my fave photos I snapped when we were living in the South End. The lighting was perfect, and it was such a beautiful day. We emerged from our 'bat cave' apartment under the stairs of our cute brownstone building, and went on a loooong walk to the North End. I remember my bum was literally frozen numb by the time we got home, haha. I digress. Anyways, I'm super excited to see the family...especially my two sis-in-law's who are super duper preggers mcgreggors!!! Wish that stork would hurry up and make the delivery already. Anxious to meet the little ones. :) Off to pack now. Wishing you all safe travels for the holidays!
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGoRa87SsAGGoTBJdAbO5Kr50oIFYVhGyrOmJrLVurTMSovQ-exL4bF9QQe243VwMX8oL8GJHUYHyWRcIf47ycqYqpT-zD1B3_Mq1H_i0zz013UBI9t88romCpe4gm8JwKBpCO9Jj2jLu_/s1600/TMT+Wrapping+2.jpg)
I am sadly not a huge writer of the written word...you know, the kind that involves a pen, paper, and a stamp??? It's really upsetting. Regardless of that fact, I had to snap up these awesome cards during my trip to San Francisco.
- 12:00 PM
- 3 Comments
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Sweater // Top // Necklace // Lip Balm // Pants (Similar) // Slippers // Book |
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Blazer // Dress // Eyeshadow // Earrings // Tights // Shoes // Purse |
- 8:40 AM
- 2 Comments
Everything you see in the Wolf & Moon shop is lovingly handmade or handpicked by designer Hannah Davis. Everything you see in the shop was also put on my wishlist upon first sight...especially those stunning geode pendants and lucite necklaces. They're glooooorious!
- 10:45 AM
- 2 Comments
This stunning font from the very talented and generous Rositsa Gorolova has me swooing over its ribbon-like romantic shapes and graceful curves. Can you believe this beautiful font is free?! FREE, I tell you! You can download the Lemniscate font here. As a bonafide hoarder of fonts, this is certainly going into my 'favorites' category. I can't wait to use this font. My head is spinning with all the possibilities.
- 7:43 PM
- 3 Comments
If you are like me, you are wayyyyy behind with your holiday planning, decorating, shopping and schmoozing. Last-minute lasses and lads, fret not...I made a free printable party set inspired by needle-point folk art. I don't mean to brag, but they are super cute, no?! I personally love that red and blue combo. Something about red and green just sets me off....I just am not a fan of that color scheme. Ick. Anyways, I hope you enjoy the printables and please do let me know if you end up using them for a holiday party. I'd be thrilled to see photos of it in action. :) Happy holidays, loves!
- 9:03 AM
- 3 Comments
Anyone else completely captivated with these little fluffies?
art by Ana Montiel // d.i.y yarn pom pom tutorial
PS San Fran was completely amazing! I wasn't feeling on top of my game when I left for the trip, and when I came back, I felt even worse. Turns out I have bronchitis paired with all these other little sicknesses. Plus, one of the 5 medications (!!!!) I am on right now is an ultra drowsy formula, so it doesn't help that I can barely stay conscious long enough to eek out a blog post. So, my dears, that is why I have been a little quiet since I got back from the trip. I'll post some pics next week...and just a tip, there will be LOTS of macaron talk!
- 9:46 AM
- 6 Comments
Hello, dear readers! I'm still in San Francisco, having a ball with my friends and stuffing my face with bread from Tartine. Speaking of having a ball, I've asked the always amazing and super creative Jenny from Hank + Hunt to guest post today. The topic du jour? Parties and planning tips and tricks, of course! After all, 'tis the season to celebrate. Don't Jenny's picks just make you so excited for the holidays?! Great job, Jenny!
Hi,
I’m Jenny from Hank + Hunt, and I was so happy when Kirsten invited me
to do a guest post. This little batch of lovely is at the top of my
daily reader! She asked if I would give some advise on holiday parties
and I thought I would do a little party roundup for some golden party
supplies. Gold works like a neutral in your party decor, but adds more
panache and sophistication. Whether you add small bits or a lot, it can
turn any color into a festive holiday. Pair it with turquoise or a deep
emerald or even neon pink for a modern fete. I love it paired with
black and white. I just had a gilded birthday, and there was oodles of
gold, everywhere. The more the better.
What
to know the secret to throwing a fabulous fete? Make it simple. First,
pick out what you will serve, your table will reflect either a dinner
party or a cocktail buffet. Do you have neutral dishes you can use?
Simple white dishes and serveware can be used for ANYTHING. Don’t
forget cake stands and servers. For a more modern take on neutral
dishes, get a set in black. I have a trio of black stands and they
really add that little extra zing, while still being neutral enough for
most palettes. Once you know what you are serving, mock up your table
and buffet today. This will save you tons of time. You will get
a visual of what you have, what you need, and what isn’t going to work.
Planning a ton of tiny canapes or cupcakes? No platters? By doing your
layout in advance, you can make a choice to either buy a bunch of
platters, measuring available real estate on the tabletop, or change
your foods. Visually seeing your setup, lets you assess the decorations
needed. Do you need two arrangements on the buffet? Should you hang
garland or sprinkle confetti down the center of your table? Do you need
different linens? Planning ahead makes setup on the day of, more relaxed
and enjoyable. Read: no surprises! Yay, you worked out all the kinks;
all that’s left is the fun part.
Now
you are ready to go shopping, you have a plan, a list and a vision.
Here is a little round up of some pretty little gilded items...enjoy!
(clockwise:)
tray // party blowers // vintage glasses // garland // vintage brass champagne bucket // pinata // hanging stars // vintage tinsel (similar found on ebay) // votives // cake stand // flatware
- 8:00 AM
- 3 Comments
Well, lovelies, today I am enjoying day 1 of my weekend trip to San Francisco to visit one of my most special friends. We've been good pals since high school, and it's such a special treat every time I get to see her because, sadly, it isn't that often. Not wanting to leave you hanging while I'm flitting about the Bay area, I've arranged for some of my most fave bloggers to guest post here at Triple Max Tons. Woohoo! Trust, they went above and beyond on the 'awesome' scale, and gosh you are all in for a special treat. First up on the roster is the super talented and always lovely Erika from small shop...
Hello fellow Kirsten fans! It's Erika from small shop bringing you a few fun picks for your gift giving this year. They're bright, they're hip and sure to please.
Hello fellow Kirsten fans! It's Erika from small shop bringing you a few fun picks for your gift giving this year. They're bright, they're hip and sure to please.
![small shop gift guide: modern chic](http://smallshopstudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/small-shop-gift-guide-modern-chic.jpg)
[ 1 ] "Let's Party" by Jessica Craig Marin on 20x200, $50 (unframed) - Obsessed with this Vogue photographer's contemporary work who believes truth is in the details, the "found moments."
[ 2 ] Aphrodite USB Hub, $46
- Tech greek.
[ 3 ] Pantone The 20th Century in Color book, $40
- A study in color trends and shifts throughout the last century.
[ 4 ] Zebra Crossing Scarf, $25
- A lot of now style for very little later buyer's remorse.
[ 5 ] Madewell Cheetah Socks, $12
- Because you can never have too many fun socks in winter, that no one will ever see.
[ 6 ] Geometric Buffalo Head (also in white), $149
- A humorous modern take on the trophy head.
[ 7 ] La Sardinia Camera in Domino, $69
- It's a Life Aquatic dream come true. Go Team Zissou!
[ 8 ] Anthropologie Fireside Feelings Ornament, $28
- This has to be the prettiest ornament I've seen this season!
[ 9 ] Balance Wu Eraser+ring (more colors available), $5
- For those of us that still write in real-life. (And want to feel nerdier about it.)
Hope you got some inspiration here, and hope you'll come visit me for more! Thanks for having me over Kirsten!
![...xoxo](http://smallshopstudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/xoxo.jpg)
- 8:00 AM
- 7 Comments
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{Recipe adapted from Bakerella // Image by Triple Max Tons} |
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqGfRxCy6ZmRohkqsskb62BozU6fBPI5Uvka6bKM-kerejoFWf6DyA4Bo8hJwKzVkoTOwRLzYl24gfCJMFMYIYwRozQ68Qrem27Al9_bLKaVbEs6K3oS_-_ECkLKaGZArO8kXHnXYxHmzH/s1600/TEMPLATE_Ingredients.jpg)
1 16 oz. can frosting (I made a simple softened butter, powdered sugar and cocoa frosting)
1 package chocolate chips
1 package shredded coconut
wax paper
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2. Mix thoroughly with 1 can of frosting. Depending on if you are using scraps, just use enough until it comes together.
3. Roll mixture into quarter size balls and lay on cookie sheet.
4. Chill for several hours. You can speed this up by putting in the freezer.
5. Melt chocolate in microwave per directions on package.
6. Roll balls in chocolate. Use a spoon to dip and roll in chocolate and then tap off extra.)
7. Roll balls in coconut or desired topping - chopped nuts, crushed peppermint, sprinkles, etc.
8. Lay on wax paper until firm. Refrigerate until ready to eat.
- 12:01 PM
- 6 Comments
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{Photo by Triple Max Tons} |
Now, some of you might be murmuring to yourselves, "what the heck is an action?". Well, friends, let me tell you. It's a magical and fast way to post-edit your photos in one fell swoop without having to repeat your steps over and over and over. Here's a tutorial on how to install actions.
- 8:00 AM
- 5 Comments
Today's post is dedicated to the mighty Christmas tree because *sniffle* the husband and I won't be having one this year. With all the traveling we are doing, it just doesn't really make sense to put one up...which is slightly devastating. Decorating the Christmas tree was one of my favorite traditions as a kid, pulling out all the ornaments from years past and carefully placing them on each branch. It's funny too, because my tastes have totally changed when it comes to styling the tree. As a kid, I was all about colored lights, the brightest and biggest ornaments, and zillions of presents under the tree. Nowadays, I have gotten a little more monochromatic when it comes to decorating....lots of white, silver, and metallic ornaments and decor. What's your holiday decor style?
Bright & Cheery
12. Tree Topper
- 8:00 AM
- 9 Comments
- 10:07 AM
- 2 Comments
While I am sure we all want a kitchen that envies Tyler Florence's (*gasp*), I - like most of you - don't have the square footage or...ahem....the exorbitant wad of cash in my wallet to warrant such a luxurious place to rustle up some grub. Alas, we can't all be rock star chefs with TV shows and magazines to foot the bill for dream kitchens. Instead, we can spoil our foodie family members and master chef friends with the lovely and luxurious kitchen accessories featured in this year's holiday gift guide for the spoiled chef!
Rosanna Rococo Noir Small Cake Pedestal - Like a better-than-basic black dress, the Rococo Noir Cake Pedestal makes a striking statement when laden with cakes or hors d'oeuvres.
Gold Label Recipe Box - This gold label recipe box is crafted using raspberry lacquer and houses 100 recipe cards divided in six categories: breakfast, lunch, dinner, starters, sweets... and family recipes.
Slate Cheese Board - A rustic slate serving board that does double duty, giving hostesses the ability to scribble on the types of artisinal cheeses that you will undoubtedly be gobbling up. Calories shmalories.
Opinel Knife Set - With a peeler and paring, serrated, and vegetable knives, this collection is ideal for preparing produce and trimming meats. Clean and colorful mid-century design inspires this set of kitchen knives.
Roost Mother-of-Pearl Condiment Bowl and Spoon Set - Seriously, how decadent is this latticed pearl bowl? It's a bowl worthy of an impromptu wine-and-caviar picnic on the top of the Eiffel Tower.
Maple Syrup Sampler - Taste the subtle nuances that distinguish this favorite Vermont treat, from the strong and dark "Grade B", to the mild and delicate "Fancy Grade". I mean, really, this had me at "Fancy Grade" syrup (with caps no less). Who knew that even existed until now.
1-Line Spice Rack - Constructed from 1/4" thick brushed stainless steel bars, this spice rack appears to float on the wall for easy and organized access. Bonus? Each spice rack comes with 13 glass mini cube bottles with cork tops.
Modernist Mugs by West Elm - Made in Japan using special printing techniques, these petite, brightly patterned mugs give your coffee or tea a colorful jolt. The fun, whimsical motifs take their cue from retro 1950s diner prints.
Rosanna Rococo Noir Small Cake Pedestal - Like a better-than-basic black dress, the Rococo Noir Cake Pedestal makes a striking statement when laden with cakes or hors d'oeuvres.
Gold Label Recipe Box - This gold label recipe box is crafted using raspberry lacquer and houses 100 recipe cards divided in six categories: breakfast, lunch, dinner, starters, sweets... and family recipes.
Slate Cheese Board - A rustic slate serving board that does double duty, giving hostesses the ability to scribble on the types of artisinal cheeses that you will undoubtedly be gobbling up. Calories shmalories.
Opinel Knife Set - With a peeler and paring, serrated, and vegetable knives, this collection is ideal for preparing produce and trimming meats. Clean and colorful mid-century design inspires this set of kitchen knives.
Roost Mother-of-Pearl Condiment Bowl and Spoon Set - Seriously, how decadent is this latticed pearl bowl? It's a bowl worthy of an impromptu wine-and-caviar picnic on the top of the Eiffel Tower.
Maple Syrup Sampler - Taste the subtle nuances that distinguish this favorite Vermont treat, from the strong and dark "Grade B", to the mild and delicate "Fancy Grade". I mean, really, this had me at "Fancy Grade" syrup (with caps no less). Who knew that even existed until now.
Juliska "Pewter" Square Baking Dish - This "pewter" baking dish is actually stoneware with a rich, old-world luster that summons up
visions of grand European estates. Ha....fooled you didn't I?!
Oak Cheese Dome by Sagaform* -
Ok, so this went on the list not because it is for cheese (you must think I really love cheese). I put this on here because it is smaller and covered with glass....the perfect way to tease and tantalize your host with homemade truffles placed inside.
Honey Jar + Stick - This eco-friendly honey jar and stick is unique, beautiful and creates less sticky mess. Say no more.
Oak Cheese Dome by Sagaform* -
Honey Jar + Stick - This eco-friendly honey jar and stick is unique, beautiful and creates less sticky mess. Say no more.
1-Line Spice Rack - Constructed from 1/4" thick brushed stainless steel bars, this spice rack appears to float on the wall for easy and organized access. Bonus? Each spice rack comes with 13 glass mini cube bottles with cork tops.
Modernist Mugs by West Elm - Made in Japan using special printing techniques, these petite, brightly patterned mugs give your coffee or tea a colorful jolt. The fun, whimsical motifs take their cue from retro 1950s diner prints.
- 12:30 PM
- 3 Comments
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDm-9jwFBXJsc6mUwdJZDrLUkUBFMkphfuXyhhHdT7C5EqpIRYoGNIXig_GKRJ5AV_1AVOy3kSs1AoTKPQPJb9PN5eFw63lsRFqt1JYqGLeD3rzk7rGWQbX4KPfTNvmfHJkUBL-mgbQBps/s1600/Holiday+Gift+Guide+2011_Jetsetter.jpg)
Remix Blanket by Ferm Living* -
A gorgeous jacquard knit blanket in squares print. Perfect to cuddle up with on that awful red-eye flight, for an impromptu picnic at your beach destination, or staying warm after a day of skiing in the Alps.
Calling Cards by The Butter NYC - Keep in touch with your international contacts with these chic calling cards...the days of scribbling your info on a napkin are dunzo.
Voluspa Candle in Macaron* - With the sweet scent of
Macarons de Paris, you will want to eat this right up...even if you just were in Paris gobbling up the real deal! Marie Antoinette would be so proud.
Tocca Rollerball Trio* - The
house of Tocca calls to mind chic European style and old-world places. The
perfect introduction to their fragrances, this set includes three distinctive
scents in a take-anywhere rollerball. Jetsetter - 1. TSA - 0.
Goorin Brothers Wilma Fedora* - Deflated, static and stringy hair is not
cute. Cover up strands in need of some TLC after a long flight with a cool black topper.
iTunes giftcard with playlist suggestions - With all that spare time to listen to tunes, the jetsetter's playlist is constantly on rotation to keep it from getting stale. Give them the gift of calming tunes or rump-shaking beats with an iTunes giftcard paired with the free printable playlist I made specially for you.
iTunes giftcard with playlist suggestions - With all that spare time to listen to tunes, the jetsetter's playlist is constantly on rotation to keep it from getting stale. Give them the gift of calming tunes or rump-shaking beats with an iTunes giftcard paired with the free printable playlist I made specially for you.
Dolce Vita Nariko Embossed Flats*
- These snake-embossed leather flats are the perfect slip on, slip off shoe for that awful and traumatic time when we are forced to take off our shoes for airport security. Anyone else absolutely cringe when that time comes? I curse the fool who attempted to terrorize the nation with a bomb in his shoe!
Classic Globe - Naturally, a jetsetter needs to figure out her next destination. Give this cool, modern globe (with Scandinavian style, no less!) a swirl and use your finger to stop it's rotation. Buy a ticket to the first place your finger lands. How adventurous.
Paris + From Stripes to Chevrons Personalized Stationary
- Bonjour! These classic personalized stationery cards are an elegant way to let your loved ones know you miss them terribly and are having a fantastic time during your travels.
Juicy Couture Earbuds in Case*
- These gold-plated earbuds in a
glitter-covered case are a surefire way to listen to your tuneskis in the highest (and most compact) style yet.
Michael Kors Runway Time Teller Watch*- 12:30 PM
- 3 Comments
{Cake recipe adapted from Sweetapolita // Frosting recipe adapted from Martha Stewart // Flag Template from Love vs Design // Styling & Photography by Triple Max Tons}
When it comes to confections, I have a so-so baking batting average, mostly due to the fact that I sometimes forget to incorporate a crucial ingredient in the recipe every now and then (like the cinnamon in apple pie...oooops). So, on that note, can you believe I baked that cute little cake pictured above?!?!? Well, I actually baked two of
those mini cakes, but who's counting. ;) John really loved his mini birthday cake, and my eyes lit up in delight with every bite he (and I, for that matter) took. It's definitely going to be my fallback chocolate cake recipe from here on out.
RICH & DARK CHOCOLATE CAKE
This is a sinfully delicious and decadent cake batter. I'd honestly recommend getting the best ingredients possible - the luxurious dark cocoa, good quality butter, rich coffee, and fresh buttermilk. It will really pay off when it comes to tasting time! One 8" cake round yielded 3 mini rounds, so I made 2 3-layer cakes.
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqGfRxCy6ZmRohkqsskb62BozU6fBPI5Uvka6bKM-kerejoFWf6DyA4Bo8hJwKzVkoTOwRLzYl24gfCJMFMYIYwRozQ68Qrem27Al9_bLKaVbEs6K3oS_-_ECkLKaGZArO8kXHnXYxHmzH/s1600/TEMPLATE_Ingredients.jpg)
2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup Extra Dark Dutched Cocoa
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
1 cup strong black coffee (can be hot, but I used warm because I didn't want the hot coffee to affect the eggs)
1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyvxIJXsQo1oYxIM07g3k-kjkHcEPtTmsJdSAn0hQ-TQASFdhspvajlcRRw1VnuTPvcwykur5sLrduL-7dYENWQizzzqzJ8jpnBOrghN5zHL4mtj7aF8iXQRDh37cF42wu35Vhsrn3bkHE/s1600/TEMPLATE_Ingredients+Directions.jpg)
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Prepare 2 x 9″ (or 3 x 8″ for slightly shorter layers) cake pans with butter and flour or parchment paper. In bowl of electric mixer, sift all dry ingredients. Add all remaning ingredients to bowl with the dry ingredients and with paddle attachment on mixer, mix for 2 minutes on medium speed (you may need the plastic splashguard that comes with mixer) and pour into prepared pans. Batter will be liquidy.
2. Bake for 20 minutes and rotate pans in oven. Cakes are done when toothpick or skewer comes clean–approximately 35 minutes. Try not to overbake. Cool on wire racks for 20 minutes then gently invert onto racks until completely cool.
SWISS MERINGUE BUTTERCREAM FROSTING
Just a note, I made a single serving of this frosting and didn't have enough for the ruffles. You will need approximately 2 times the Swiss
Meringue Buttercream recipe for these personal size cakes if you are planning to do the ruffled effect. ![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqGfRxCy6ZmRohkqsskb62BozU6fBPI5Uvka6bKM-kerejoFWf6DyA4Bo8hJwKzVkoTOwRLzYl24gfCJMFMYIYwRozQ68Qrem27Al9_bLKaVbEs6K3oS_-_ECkLKaGZArO8kXHnXYxHmzH/s1600/TEMPLATE_Ingredients.jpg)
5 large egg whites (30g each–total 150g)![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqGfRxCy6ZmRohkqsskb62BozU6fBPI5Uvka6bKM-kerejoFWf6DyA4Bo8hJwKzVkoTOwRLzYl24gfCJMFMYIYwRozQ68Qrem27Al9_bLKaVbEs6K3oS_-_ECkLKaGZArO8kXHnXYxHmzH/s1600/TEMPLATE_Ingredients.jpg)
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons superfine granulated sugar (swish granulated sugar in a food processor for a few mins)
1 pound (4 sticks) unsalted butter, softened, cut into cubes
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyvxIJXsQo1oYxIM07g3k-kjkHcEPtTmsJdSAn0hQ-TQASFdhspvajlcRRw1VnuTPvcwykur5sLrduL-7dYENWQizzzqzJ8jpnBOrghN5zHL4mtj7aF8iXQRDh37cF42wu35Vhsrn3bkHE/s1600/TEMPLATE_Ingredients+Directions.jpg)
1. Combine egg whites, sugar, and salt in the heatproof bowl of a
standing mixer set over a pan of simmering water. Whisk constantly by with an electric mixer until mixture is warm to the touch (about 140 degrees F) and sugar has dissolved (the
mixture should feel completely smooth when rubbed between your
fingertips).
2. Attach the bowl to the mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Starting on low and gradually increasing to medium-high speed, whisk until stiff (but not dry) peaks form. Continue mixing until the mixture is fluffy and glossy, and completely cool (test by touching the bottom of the bowl), about 8-10 minutes.
3. Switch from the whisk attachment to the paddle attachment. With mixer on medium-low speed, add the butter a few tablespoons at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once all butter has been added, whisk in vanilla. Continue beating on low speed until all air bubbles are eliminated, about 2 minutes. Scrape down sides of bowl with a flexible spatula, and continue beating until the frosting is completely smooth. Keep buttercream at room temperature if using the same day.
4. (Optional) To tint buttercream (or royal icing), reserve some for toning down the color, if necessary. Add gel-paste food color, a drop at a time (or use the toothpick or skewer to add food color a dab at a time) to the remaining buttercream. You can use a single shade of food color or experiment by mixing two or more. Blend after each addition with the mixer (use a paddle attachment) or a flexible spatula, until desired shade is achieved. Avoid adding too much food color too soon, as the hue will intensify with continued stirring; if necessary, you can tone down the shade by mixing in some reserved untinted buttercream.
Keep in airtight container in refrigerator for up to one week, leaving out at room temperature when needed, rewhipping in mixer for 5 minutes. Can freeze for up to 6-8 weeks. Makes approximately 5 cups of buttercream.
2. I grabbed 3 glasses from my cabinet, checking to make sure I could get them all layed out on one cake round. I realized after the fact that I have round cookie cutters I could have used...d'oh! Using the glasses, gently push down to cut through the cake to make 3 mini cake rounds.
3. Pop the cake rounds in the fridge of freezer for a bit to chill. When they are nice and chilled, place the first mini round on the serving dish and spread on a generous dollop of frosting. Place the second layer on, plop another generous dollop of frosting and spread. Place the third layer on top, and spread another thinner layer on top of that. Continue spreading the frosting to coat the sides of the cake. Don't worry about some crumbs mixing in with the frosting - this is the first layer, or "crumb coat" of frosting. But do keep in mind - the neater, the better! Put your crumb coated mini cakes in the fridge to let the crumb coat harden up a bit.
Next Friday, I will post what to do with all these cake scraps, so stay tuned!
2. Attach the bowl to the mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Starting on low and gradually increasing to medium-high speed, whisk until stiff (but not dry) peaks form. Continue mixing until the mixture is fluffy and glossy, and completely cool (test by touching the bottom of the bowl), about 8-10 minutes.
3. Switch from the whisk attachment to the paddle attachment. With mixer on medium-low speed, add the butter a few tablespoons at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once all butter has been added, whisk in vanilla. Continue beating on low speed until all air bubbles are eliminated, about 2 minutes. Scrape down sides of bowl with a flexible spatula, and continue beating until the frosting is completely smooth. Keep buttercream at room temperature if using the same day.
4. (Optional) To tint buttercream (or royal icing), reserve some for toning down the color, if necessary. Add gel-paste food color, a drop at a time (or use the toothpick or skewer to add food color a dab at a time) to the remaining buttercream. You can use a single shade of food color or experiment by mixing two or more. Blend after each addition with the mixer (use a paddle attachment) or a flexible spatula, until desired shade is achieved. Avoid adding too much food color too soon, as the hue will intensify with continued stirring; if necessary, you can tone down the shade by mixing in some reserved untinted buttercream.
Keep in airtight container in refrigerator for up to one week, leaving out at room temperature when needed, rewhipping in mixer for 5 minutes. Can freeze for up to 6-8 weeks. Makes approximately 5 cups of buttercream.
TO ASSEMBLE THE PERSONAL SIZED CAKES
1. If the cake domed while baking, take a long knife and cut the dome off so you have a flat surface. Store the scraps in an airtight container and pop them in the freezer, and hold tight for next Friday's post on what to do with these!2. I grabbed 3 glasses from my cabinet, checking to make sure I could get them all layed out on one cake round. I realized after the fact that I have round cookie cutters I could have used...d'oh! Using the glasses, gently push down to cut through the cake to make 3 mini cake rounds.
3. Pop the cake rounds in the fridge of freezer for a bit to chill. When they are nice and chilled, place the first mini round on the serving dish and spread on a generous dollop of frosting. Place the second layer on, plop another generous dollop of frosting and spread. Place the third layer on top, and spread another thinner layer on top of that. Continue spreading the frosting to coat the sides of the cake. Don't worry about some crumbs mixing in with the frosting - this is the first layer, or "crumb coat" of frosting. But do keep in mind - the neater, the better! Put your crumb coated mini cakes in the fridge to let the crumb coat harden up a bit.
3. Once the crumb coat is hardened, you can apply the next layer of frosting without spreading more crumbs around. Frost and decorate the entire cake to your liking. I piped little pearl-like beads along the base to cover up the seam and added them on top because I have left-over frosting. I froze the remaining cup or so of buttercream.
4. Devour the cake (no guilt allowed), and marvel at its amazing taste and texture!
Next Friday, I will post what to do with all these cake scraps, so stay tuned!
- 8:55 AM
- 2 Comments
Upcycled, reduced, reused, recycled, organic, fair trade, sustainable – all is fair game in this eco-friendly holiday gift guide. With the season of massive consumerism ahead of us (yay!), now is a great time to think about little ways we can give back and lessen our impact. Adios, unfair wages, creepy chemicals, and wasted materials...you are so not welcome in 2012.
Josie Maran Holiday Glow Argan Illuminizer & Argan Color Stick Duo* - Get your holiday glow on with argan oil. This organic ingredient is known to prevent dehydration, inflammation, hyperpigmentation, and sebum production. It is your answer to healthy, youthful, and radiant skin.
Folktale Weekly Planner - For those who want to avoid using battery-sucking smart phones and iPads, this recycled paper journal printed with soy-based ink is chock full of illustrations of amusing animals, peculiar birds and sweet-faced matryoshkas moseying around a fantastical mountain town.
La Chamba Colombian Clay Oval Casserole Dish - This ceramic dish is hand made using natural, locally mined clays with a natural glaze that's non-reactive and completely food safe. Plus, it's classic lines allows it to go from oven to table!
Scribble Hanging Planter - Hang a small plant virtually anywhere with this modern handmade planter. Made from clay, earth-friendly lead-free glaze, and leather cord, it was also fired in a kiln that's powered by renewable energy. Double hurrah!
Saipua Soaps - These all-natural soaps smell and look gorgeous. Each bar is hand-wrapped with patterned paper and stamped labels. Handmade in Brooklyn.
Sydney Hale Agave and Honeysuckle Candle - I bought this candle, and ohhhh myyyy gosssshhh it smells amazing. Not to mention that it's compromised of natural soy wax that comes from a renewable source grown in the USA. Once the candle is dunzo, you can reuse the pretty silk screened glass container to hold fresh flowers, q-tips, small office supplies, etc.
'Monroe' Tea Towel - Bring some pattern to your kitchen with this thirsty towel made from 100% organic cotton, and packaged in a 100% recycled cardboard envelope. This and this are also cute alternatives.
‘Zero Waste’ Leather Bangle - In an effort to re-purpose leather scraps and clean out their closets, Hare + Hart's 'Zero Waste' bracelets features hand-painted leather strips on a brass bangle that are hand-assembled in New York.
Chevron Drawer Liners by Hammocks & High Tea - These elegant drawer liners are scented with organic essential oils, and made from 100% recycled paper
printed with gold soy ink. These silver floral liners are also adorable. Who doesn't want nicely scented underoos and camis to take them from 9-5 and beyond?
Papier-Mache Stag – Handmade in Haiti as part of a collaboration with Aid to Artisans, these witty riffs on horned animals are made entirely from recycled materials. This all-white Papier-Mâché Stag brings a wild side to walls in the most responsible way.
African Print Bag – Each bag - handmade from sustainable materials - empowers women of Ghana to gain financial independence by providing jobs, education and skill training. The label on inside strap is also signed by the artist who made it. Everything in this entire green boutique is a total ‘yes’ in my book!
- 12:30 PM
- 4 Comments
Wanted to give a shout out to my amazing husband, John, on his birthday!
I can't wait to....
eat the cake I made you....
sing you birthday songs...
officially give you your present...
and celebrate this happy day with you.
I love you.
- 10:23 AM
- 2 Comments
Glass Glitter - Six bottles of amazingly luminous glass glitter to inspire all sort of glittery goodness. Use it daringly or sparingly....either way, you can't go wrong with some DIY sparkle in your home.
Patterns and Colors Washi Tape - This multi-purpose adhesive tape made of washi - handmade Japanese paper - comes in 8 beautiful colors and can be used for gift-wrapping, book-marking, arts and crafts, and other projects. It is easy to tear by hand, write on, and remove. I bought some a while ago, and use it all the time! Adios, gross yellow masking tape.
Le Creuset Signature Round Wide Dutch Oven – Le Creuset products last FOREVER. I'm pretty sure after the apocalypse, there will be three things left on Earth: cockroaches, Cher, and Le Creuset pots and pans.This is such a solid investment for creating homemade dishes for generations to come, and cook really nicely.
Striped Bottle Vase by Dahlhaus - Painted with bright streaks of color, this curvy vessel adds vibrancy to your table whether or not it's holding fresh flowers. Handmade in Vancouver by the super talented Heather Dahl of Dahlhaus (brilliant name, huh?!).
Divine Twine Mini Pack - Just a tad thicker than traditional baker's twine, this lovely eco-friendly twine comes in many more colors on adorable mini-spools. I bought the normal sizes of some of these colors, and I use them all the time to string pennants, make invitations, and wrap gifts.
Handmade Peppermint Bark - Made with single-origin dark chocolate and buttery white chocolate sprinkled with crushed peppermints, this small-batch bark from Askinosie Chocolate is ready for gifting in its burned Birchwood box. Hand-crafted in the USA.
Roost Colored Pencils & Brass Holder Set - Escape the ordinary with Roost's updated versions of ordinary office supplies. Twenty five colored pencils arrive ready for use in an attractive cardboard kraft tube...think grown-up Prangs! How can you not use them immediately and start scribbling happy messages to your friends and fam on handmade cards?
‘Wind’ Pillow by Erin Flett - I am loving Erin Flett's fresh, delightful designs which, luckily for us, can be sprinkled about the house in the form of a hand silk-screened pillow. They instantly brighten up any room!
Lotta Jansdotter's Handmade Living: A Fresh Take on Scandinavian Style* - Maybe it's because my family is Swedish or because I think Lotta is awesome, but this one is an automatic 'like' for me! In this lavishly illustrated book, Lotta shares her decorating secrets, design resources, entertaining tips, and family traditions. Tucked away at the back shes included stencil pages and perforated recipe cards featuring classic Swedish dishes.
Handmade Stamps by Extase - These handmade stamps are mounted on a piece of salvaged wood that's been sanded and lacquered for a durable finish...thank goodness, because splinters are never in style when it comes to DIY projects. Use these faceted and feathered stamps to decorate your own cards, decorative/wrapping papers, stationary, packaging, etc.! The possibilities are endless...
Illustrated Prints by Wesley Bird –A little folky, a lot hand drawn....these prints are simply awesome. I honestly had a very tough time picking which one I wanted to feature since my eyes couldn't stop taking in all the coolness in the gallery. What solved my conundrum? The tried-and-true eenie meenie minie mo!
- 12:30 PM
- 3 Comments
Don't we all want our dudes to be dapper? I'm not talking about looking and acting like James Bond 24/7 (because that would mean us ladies would have to walk around looking like a pin-up worthy Bond girl 24/7...and that's just not gonna happen, my friends). What I am talking about is that certain 'je ne sais quois' that those modern-day dapper dudes like Clooney, Gosling, and Depp posses. It's that "I might have just rolled out of bed, but I look pretty darn good....and I totally know it."
Dude No. 1 Beard Oil by MCMC Fragrances - Fresh, spicy, and woody, this 100% natural fragrance is the new classic manly scent that will make you want to get close. Super close.
Tokyo Bay Speed Watch - A
great casual men's watch that evokes the feeling of a vintage motorbike. The
rugged leather and canvas strap, aged metal patina of the dial and casing would
be the perfect watch with that favorite leather jacket.
The Scifen Company Pieces T-Shirt* - This revamped classic tee with a traditional silhouette evokes a clean cut and neat image without being too
refined. It's a little bit bit Paris meets LA, no?
Berkley
Illustration Cheetah Portrait Print &
Berkley Illustration Great White Shark
- Two gentlemanly subjects from the animal kingdom are featured in these prints - a perfect conversation starter for endless hours in the man cave. The stories behind the prints? After cataract surgery ten years ago, this
cheetah realized that an eyepatch can be a real conversation starter with the
ladies. His eye has long since healed but his social calendar remains quite
full. Now for the shark...once a popular jazz pianist, this shark has most recently become a
song and dance showman. His voice has been described as "a cross between
Louis Armstrong and Kenny Rogers". Unfortunately his fierce temper has limited
his gigs to biker bars and convict picnics. Feel free to talk amongst yourselves.
Bumble and bumble Sumotech* - No one likes a guy that takes longer to get ready than, say. J.Lo or Kim Kardashian. A little muss with not a whole lot of fuss is the recipe for a dapper dude's hair care regimen. The perfect ingredient? This mid-weight wax/paste/cream goop.
Bodum Fyrkat Portable Charcoal Grill - Grilling is a right of passage from boyhood to manhood. For gents that are confined to small apartments or seasonal grilling, this compact design uses charcoal for true barbecue flavor. Yum.
Kenton Sorenson Leather Dopp Kit - This dopp kit is hand made in
Wisconsin using natural leather that will develop an amazing deep golden brown
color with regular use. Isn't it so rustic, simple, and just gorgeous?
Suede and Leather Shoe by Pointer* - A casual, classic shoe from Pointer that will look dashing when your dude is pounding the pavement. These two-toned shoes are sure to make you do a head to toe assessment...and approve of what you see.
Button Stud Belt by Makr - A champion of leather goods, this entire
shop’s good could easily fit into this gift guide. This belt is simple in design - one inch wide, seven button
holes, brass finishes. Like the dopp kit, it will darken significantly with age. It's a keeper.
Washed Linen Tie by Apolis - Inspired by a traditional World War II officer's tie, the textured linen fabric of this tie is anything but rigid. It'll add polish without pomp to your dude's look.
Washed Linen Tie by Apolis - Inspired by a traditional World War II officer's tie, the textured linen fabric of this tie is anything but rigid. It'll add polish without pomp to your dude's look.
Vestal “Himalayas” Sunglasses*
- If you're planning a trip to the Himalayas... you might want to get some more serious eye wear (snow blindness seems seriously horrifying). But for everyday wear, these sunnies are sure to keep your guy's peeper protected - in style - from the damaging rays of the sun. probably don't want
these sunglasses.
The Perfect Gent by Sam Tickner
- A quick pictorial guide of all the essentials needed to make a perfect gentleman. Bow tie and cigar not included. Bummer.
- 12:30 PM
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