makehappybehappy

Inner joy through making others smile Gift-giving and entertaining guide

[makehappybehappy]

Easter Brunch: Florida Style

How to add a little bit of the tropics and a whole lot of color to this holiday meal.

Last Easter we were fortunate enough to be in the Florida Keys with friends and family.  I wanted to do something bright and colorful for brunch that matched our gorgeous surroundings.  This was the result and I hope it inspires you! 

For the place settings, I hopped over to Michaels and found the palm leaf dye cuts.  I then bought a pile of spring-colored ribbon spools and a white marker.  Paired with my paper palm leaf place mats and bright aqua cloth napkins - this was the fabulous place setting that resulted: 

In the center of the table I took a round blue tray, filled it with 2 lanterns, all white shells and sand dollars and some glitter eggs.  

Now - the menu.  I may have gone a bit overboard - but it was so fun!

The menu was: 

Ham

Rolls

Egg and sausage casserole

Blueberry muffins

Hard boiled & dyed eggs

Herbed Goat Cheese Log & plain Goat Cheese Log 

Pancakes

Bacon

Iced Easter Cookies

Spring Petit Fours

Argula & Parmesean Salad

Finish it off with coffee, mimosas and champagne & raspberries

The centerpiece of the serving table is a chocolate rabbit surrounded by the petit fours.  The Petit Fours were ordered from Swiss Colony (www.swisscolony.com). I bought the cake plate so that I could add a spring colored ribbon (add I figured I could do this for any themed party - just change the ribbon!). Added to the table were orange starfish.

I think the real surprise treat were the iced cookies.  I ordered them from Etsy from DanyelSweetsCookies and THEY WERE AWESOME! Adorable, colorful and delicious.  I am now totally into specialty iced cookies for parties.  They are easy for people to grab and are visual perfection.  I threw in some pink peeps because why not?? Peeps are the best! 

So - I hope you have enjoyed this post and it is inspiring your Easter brunch.  Enjoy & Cheers! 

[makehappybehappy]

She wants something PRETTY!

Whether you are a lover or hater of Valentine’s Day, it comes every year leaving loved ones, perhaps, in a full panic of what to get.  Now - this is going to be a generalization - but most women want something pretty (and also a little thoughtful).  Here is a quick list of some things that I think are pretty...and might just make you a Valentine’s Day hero (without breaking the bank!).  

Feather Earrings  

I’m obsessed.  I love the combination of a soft feather with a metallic.  Like these from Three Bird Nest: https://www.threebirdnest.com/products/tribal-feathers-stones-earrings

Allison Cole Jewelry

I first stumbled upon her rope and gold earrings this summer in Martha’s Vineyard.  Nautical and cool and come in a variety of colors. Pinks, navys, whites.  Classic. Preppy.  Pretty!!  You can shop online, but you might also be able to find them locally.  Look at the list of retailers on the site.  I know here in Darien, I can pick them up at Kirby and Company (my absolute favorite place for buying gifts in my town (https://www.kirbyandcompany.com) 

The Kimono

Here is a piece that is not just for nighttime any more.  I saw Heidi Klum rocking a long pink silk kimono on this season’s Project Runway.  She paired it with jeans and white t-shirt and I immediately needed to duplicate this delicate style.  You can find gorgeous kimono’s on amazon.com (I bought a lovely black floral one there that I wear as a cover up over a bikini).  Anthropologie has a gorgeous collection of kimonos in all sorts of styles. This is one of my favs of theirs.  Of course...this gift can alway double as a little something sexy...

Coordinates Necklace

This is both pretty and can thoughtful.  Choose coordinates of something special (ie. where you met, first date location, first kiss location...you get the drift).  You can easily find places on line for custom jewelry.  

These are from Bohindi. (https://www.bohindi.com/collections/necklaces/products/coordinates-bar-necklace)

But I also really like Brook & York (https://brookandyork.com). There are endless options for custom jewelry and they don’t have to cost that much!   

Blatant Love

If subtly isn't your thing, nothing like putting it directly out there with a bracelet that says love like this one from Baublebar.  

https://www.baublebar.com/product/34490-l-amour-everyday-fine-bracelet?ibx_source=5a6bae8c373df&ibxdefault=BX15GENHONPK92&sku=34490%3Fibxcode%3D&utm_campaign=email_pros_sessionrecap_1_of_3&utm_medium=email&utm_source=bouncex&utm_term=behavioralemail&ueh=8292a4397856d11b3905133216ced9bf9d6bb363aef2c8829ba35c9e0b255ece

Hopefully that helps get you thinking and on your way to keeping Valentines Day (or any other occasion where a gift for someone you love is needed), super easy breezy.

[makehappybehappy]

Thinking about stuffing those stockings

Does anyone else enjoy the little treats one finds in their stockings on Christmas morning almost more than what presents lie under the tree?  I do!!!  

Here are some quick items that have caught my eye (and perhaps my wallet) as we countdown to Christmas morning.  

Stick with Me Sweets

This fabulous NYC based chocolatier and confectioner is sure to make one smile.  Their bonbons are pieces of art.  Don’t believe me?  

With to-die-for flavors such as liquid salted caramel, PB & Jelly and the lovely New York New York - you are sure to find whatever your loved ones will, well,  love!  While ordering online is still in the works - there is an online contact form.  Or you can just pop into the store on Mott St in NYC.  https://www.swmsweets.com

August Morgan 

Kate Hersch’s kitschy cocktail napkins are pure joy!!!  They will make you giddy and super eager to mix up that martini.  Witty and adorable.  As someone who loves a napkin that can make me laugh - these would be a perfect find in my stocking this Christmas.  

http://www.augustmorgan.com/bxziuop3gfknwkoevr7i8w436unkc0

Restoration Hardware

As someone who has been traveling likely a tad bit too much this year, I loved finding these travel cocktail kits in Restoration Hardware’s stocking stuffer section this year.  With 3 different combos: Gin & Tonic, Moscow Mule & the Old Fashioned - this is a gift that will surely make air travel over the holidays much more peaceful: 

https://www.restorationhardware.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=prod7430091&categoryId=cat280049

Ok - that’s all you get for now.  I will do my best to add more gift ideas as I come across them.  Until then - enjoy and happy gifting!!! 

[makehappybehappy]

A Super-Super Bowl Party

Super Bowl is a great time to have a party.  Let's face it, if you live where the weather is not the best - a super bowl party can shed some much needed warmth and fun to the darkest part of the year.  So each year we host a super bowl party and it is for family friends - so we tend to have many more kids than adults.  Here is what I have done that people LOVE and keeps them coming back year after year.  

1.  Keep it fun!!  We made a football field out of turf for our kitchen island.  It is awesome and we can roll it up and change the teams for the next year!   Our fish even gets into the spirit with some cake toppers that we put into the bowl.  

2.  Kid Friendly!  What is more kid friendly than grilled cheese sandwiches and rice krispie treats?  The rice krispie treats are dyed with food coloring to coordinate with the participating teams.  

As far as the grilled cheese - we take an adult spin and make a panini bar!  As we find many people are coming and going at different times due to kid's activities, this enables our guests to have a custom-created, made-to-order sandwich whenever they like!!  I even make a board of suggested combinations to help those who are lacking sandwich inspiration.  Having lots of options is the secret.  It is always a huge hit!!

3.  We also do a traditional football box pool - who doesn't love a little wager on a game???  Kids love it and it keeps everyone engaged.  You can find templates online.  We use a huge piece of poster board and team colored markers for ours.  

I hope that these ideas inspire you to have a super - super bowl party!!

[makehappybehappy]

I have been on paid vacation for 90 days.  I won't deny, it has been fabulous.  What i have learned is to be present, every day.  Love those that surround you.  Listen to them.  Listen to yourself.  Try as many new things as you want and don't be afraid.  I have loved the last 90 days because I focused on those in my life that I truly truly love.  

[makehappybehappy]

It's Mother's Day...did you forget? Yes? No worries...

Here is a quick, cute, very last minute gift idea for your mom, if she is tech savvy (ie. has a smart phone, tablet, etc).  This will make you look like you actually put some thought into the gift.  Start with an iTunes or the like gift card and create an app guide for mom.  If your mom is anything like mine (sorry if you are reading mom), apps and smart phones aren't her strong suit.  Also, let's be honest, who has time to research all of the apps that are out there.  

So, from one mom to yours (maybe) - here is a list of my favorite apps - maybe use this as inspiration and write yours up on a cute card for mom.  

Oyster - the netflix for books

Primp - Pretty in my pocket - helps you find out all the ratings of beauty supplies while you are shopping

Swirl-a personal shopping assistant

Rockmyrun - awesome for the mom who works out 

One Kings Lane - so you never miss a sale

Pinterest

Big Days

Sleep Cycle

Digimarc

Tiny Scan 

Good luck!!  

[makehappybehappy]

Gift Perfection for Mom

2 weeks.  That's all that's left until Mother's Day.  Time to get cracking everyone - especially if you need to get something shipped!  

Here are some new suggestions - based on things that I have and love: 

Perfume is a great item to start with.  Issey Miyake creates a new fresh variation on their lovely L'Eau d'Issey fragrance every summer.  It is light, fresh, fruity-floral and crisp.  And, great news! -  you don't have to wait for summer - they start selling it in the spring!  It's available now from online retailers like: www.nordstrom.com. 

What about a fun leather wrap bracelet watch in a bright color?  Try this one at overstock.com, which is not only very affordable, but also super fun in a bright orange or navy:   http://www.overstock.com/Jewelry-Watches/Vernier-Womens-Quartz-Gold-Tone-Orange-Genuine-Leather-Triple-Wrap-Strap-Watch/8509660/product.html?cid=228976&TRACK=IBVPV&PolyCat=watches

A great new bag for spring and summer is also a welcome gift.  Consider Stella and Dot's Avalon tote.  It is roomy and fresh.  The straps are a great length to just throw this over your shoulder and the inside pouch keeps any items that mom might want hidden out of sight:  http://www.stelladot.com/shop/en_us/p/accessories/designer-handbags-wallets/avalon-tote-color-bag-geranium

Is mom all ready for summer?  A pair of fun, colorful sunglasses might be the ticket.  I love the Michael Kors Dylan aviators.  Bright colored lenses are the solution for that bit of stylish summer flair that all moms want.  I may or may not have these in both the green and the gold...

Available from several retailers - but since I love Nordstrom's so much - here is the link to their site: http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/michael-michael-kors-dylan-58mm-aviator-sunglasses

That's all for now - thanks for reading!!

[makehappybehappy]

What to do for Dad (aka Father's Day inspiriation)

When sitting down to think about gifts for someone - I always love to consider creating themed gift baskets.  While you can easily make themed gift baskets on your own, I did stumble across the website:  www.mancrates.com.  Hilarious.  Each crate comes with a crowbar for easy opening - how can you not love that??  My favorites are The Bacon Crate and, while I am not a Walking Dead watcher - your dad might be - check out the Zombie Annihilation Crate (there are 3 Zombie Survival themed crates in fact): 

Is your dad someone who loves to cook or grill?  Create your own basket filled with spices, food items that they might use, manly utensils, olive oils - you get the idea.  Homegoods and Williams Sonoma are great places to stock up on things that to fill the basket with.  

Have a foodie in the house?  Check out www.uncommongoods.com.  Here is a site that is chock full of interesting ideas (not limited to foodies).  They happen to carry these foodie flashcards - guaranteed to bring a chuckle and maybe some interesting dinner ideas. 

Is dad a business man?  It is my personal opinion that if a man wears cufflinks, then he really can never have too many (kind of like me with shoes, and bags and jewelry....).  I really enjoy cufflinks with a personal touch.  Chart Metalworks creates cufflinks that you can personalize with a section of chart for wherever you like.  Think your house, favorite vacation spot, where Dad keeps his boat, his childhood home....you get the gist:

   Looking for something more basic?  Try a Johnnie O polo shirt.  I know it's a tad preppy, but I love love love the surfer logo.  The colors are great and these shirts hold up very nicely.  They also have a 1/4 zip pullover that is super soft.  http://www.johnnie-o.com

Looking for something a bit more whimsical?  Try a custom bobble head doll.  http://www.custombobbleheads.com  They will recreate your pets too!! They will create the bobble head from pictures that you send to them.  

Ok - that's it for now!!  If you are looking for a gift for someone or something specific and would like some suggestions - please don't hesitate to ask! 

[makehappybehappy]

An eye on Mother's Day

We all know that our moms need something a little special on Mother's Day.  Nothing over the top - just a little token that let's them know that we appreciate them for putting up with our crap (no matter our age).  That said - I am going to be posting some gift suggestions over the next month that just might peak your interest.  

Today I stumbled across 2 such items: 

The Gillian Juilius (http://www.gillianjulius.com/Gillian_Julius.html) multi-tube bracelets.  I.  Love.  These.  The combination of the fabric/cord with the metal tubes is just lovely.  I love the silver and gold combo on the tubes - so that you can surely never be without your bracelet no matter what metallic hue you choose to go with.  Available in many colors and from various sources.  Keep your eyes peeled on sample sale sites like Rue La La, Gilt, and One Kings Lane as these sometimes will pop up at a great discount.  

If your mom is into correspondence - you know the kind that involves paper and stamps, check out Minnie & Emma. (http://minnieandemma.com/index.html)

This NYC based stationary company is utterly adorable.  With their bright palette and fresh designs - you can help keep your mom stylishly in touch with all of her friends.  My personal favorite - the wrap around Aviator glasses address labels.  

Ok - that's it for today.  Will keep my eyes peeled for more ideas for you all.

P.S.  I promise to also start thinking about all those dads out there!  

[makehappybehappy]

My March Madness: Shopping to Cure Spring Fever!!

On this spring evening - as we here in Connecticut prepare for yet another snow storm (that I am convinced will melt as quickly as it lands and gives us another excuse to have one more indoor fire  - outdoor fire pit fires to begin next week), I wanted to share some of the things that are getting me super excited for spring. 

In the mood for a little fresh-from-the beach-glow?  I read about these gems a few months ago in InStyle magazine.  After reading multiple reviews online - I took the plunge:  Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pads 

You can buy these at Sephora:  http://www.sephora.com/alpha-beta-glow-pads-P282415

My personal experience:  I wash my face in the morning and then apply according to the directions (I chose not to apply at night as I wasn't sure if it would rub off on my pillow case).  I then apply my moisturizer and make up as normal.  I have been wildly pleased with the results.  For me, it gives me the perfect glow - not too much, not orange, not streaky.  Perfect.  The glow lasts about 3 days.  I did test this for the first time on a day where I knew that I would see no one except for my immediate family.  I recommend that as well for you - just in case....   

Loren Hope is my number 2 favorite spring find.   http://www.lorenhope.com

The Dahlia necklace, while a little pricey, just makes me ready for crisp spring dresses and parties:  

Not all of the pieces are expensive - but all are fabulous.  

Another great site for crisp spring-y jewelry:  Bauble Bar

Courtney Kerr is my favorite guest "bartender" (adore her show on Bravo).  In fact I would like to say "BRAVO" to her pave links bracelets - might need to get them in every color:  http://www.baublebar.com/medium-original-pave-links.html

Need something for the gents?  Whether they be boaters, fishermen, or poolside bar guests - Liquid Flow shorts/swimming trunks are awesome!!

http://liquidflowclothing.com

While, albeit super preppy - these shorts will go anywhere - from the golf course, to the pool, to the beach, to the boat, to your neighbor's backyard bbq.  The moisture wicking fabric is not only super comfortable - but looks great too!  Added bonus:  available in boys sizes!!!  

Spring Fever:  not just a state of mind - an actual condition, that can be cured...by shopping of course!!!

[makehappybehappy]

Gifts for the House of Cards lover

The problem with Netflix posting all of the season's shows at that same time, is that I finished all of Season 2 in nearly a weekend.  Now I am left with a void in my heart and I crave more (#houseofcards).  This need for all things House of Cards related got me thinking to gift ideas inspired by the show.   So if you have a HOC lover - here are some things you might want to consider giving (and a push in front of a subway train is not listed - fear not!): 

Tumi Tegra-Lite Luggage:  http://www.tumi.com/family/index.jsp?categoryId=12574012 I have this set of luggage.  Yes the set.  I travel so much that I finally splurged - went for it - and I have to tell you folks - I look forward to lugging my luggage through the airport now because it is a breeze.  Claire toted the small carryon bag in the last episode of Season 2, and it brought tears to my eyes that I have the same luggage as her!!

Rowing machine :  http://www.waterrower.com

Will surely give you a great workout while you harness your inner Frank Underwood. 

After your workout - you can hop in the shower that is of course lined with this dc metro system map: http://www.dcmetrostore.com/home-decor/dc-metro-shower-curtain  Not into shower curtains?  Don't fret - they have plates, mugs, and umbrellas - which just might suit your fancy. 

Want to see if you can recreate Freddy's Ribs on your own?  Try a BBQ Sauce of the Month Club and get in the kitchen! 

http://www.amazingclubs.com/bbq.html?gclid=CO6d_MD7g70CFUxp7Aodz1gAOA

Underarmour - for all those late night runs in the dark.  Claire gives us a hint that Underarmour is her brand of choice: 

Here is a link to what very closely resembles the hooded all black running outfit that she dons while running with her hubby - um - at night (maybe throw in some reflective strips too for yourself):  http://www.underarmour.com/shop/us/en/womens-coldgear-infrared-evo-hoodie/pid1238259-001

Looking for a trip or a night out?  Why not just jet away to Washington DC for the weekend or head out to the Opera?  Or do both!  

Other ideas:  Bathrobe, Bourbon (if you're up for what it may lead to….), Books on Political Scandal, or a civil war model set: http://www.amazon.com/American-Civil-War-Set-Imex/dp/B0007QO5MG  

But let's face it - no House of Cards gift list would be complete without a set of "FU" cufflinks.  If you or someone you love wears cufflinks - these are genius, and I am very upset with myself that I didn't think of this first.  

You can get thes custom made for your man wherever you can find cufflinks that do initials such as:  http://www.cufflinks.com/alcu.html

Well that about sums it up for this quick list.  I hope that these items will keep you entertained until Season 3 comes out and maybe spur you on to think of your own HOC inspired gifts.  

[makehappybehappy]

Family Oscar Night

I sit writing this just prior to getting down to really enjoying the evening and my family, but this is my quiet time.  

After 2 days of lacrosse, swim meets, and squash (and that's just for my 9 year old), I find myself finally at Oscar night.  Now normally I wouldn't do anything special, but with the threat of snow in the air, again, I thought that I would put together something fun for everyone this Oscar Sunday night.  

So here is my spin on meal worthy of a star but also fit for kids…a family friendly Academy Awards Dinner if you will:

Beef Tenderloin with roasted potatoes and carrots

Crescent Rolls 

Garlic-y Green Beans

Popcorn & Movie Candy

Hollywood Cupcakes

I also found some super fun 2014 Oscar Bingo cards at:  http://www.punchbowl.com/p/printable-oscar-bingo

(Side Note:  Punchbowl.com is a great site for all things party related)

I ran to the grocery store this morning for the roses and the gold sprinkles for the cupcakes - along with the dinner food and candy.  Then between squash and swimming, I baked the cupcakes, printed the bingo cards - matted them on metallic stock paper, and made the HOLLYWOOD stickers for the cupcakes (I am going to do this better next year…but this was a decent start).  After swimming I dug out our red runner to resemble the red carpet, stuck some gold candles into some gold candlesticks and voila.  

Looking forward to a fun Sunday night with the family - as we have been all over the place this weekend.  Thank you Oscar for giving us something to celebrate!!!!

PS - Next year, must order Oscar statues as additional decoration. 

Cheers!!

[makehappybehappy]

The 1920's Dress

So this week's shopping challenge has been inspired by my ever fabulous step daughter.  She is going to rock her high school musical this spring but right now - it's find the costume time.  Our mission:  Find a casual 1920's dress.  Has to be at least knee length.  Her words "think Downton Abbey casual". 

I went to the internet and I have found some really great sites that I knew nothing about.  I am only to talk about 1 right now because I think that is is so super great:   Shabby Apple (http://www.shabbyapple.com)

This site is sure to become a favorite.  Let's start with the principle behind the site.  With every purchase they donate money to charities that are dedicated to helping women in less developed countries.  Right now they are focused on the Maya Relief Foundation.

Now let's talk about the clothes.  I want everything on this site.  Some of my favorites:  

the Real Beaut! Dress

Lemon Solo Skirt

Full Steam Ahead Dress

First Snow Skirt

I love that the site has a "cute" section as well as vintage, retro and modern groupings.  

I haven't ordered anything from here yet - but I plan to.  You just might see one of their Vintage dresses featured in a soon to come high school musical.  

In short - Awesome clothes and a great cause!

[makehappybehappy]

what to give the woman you love (Part 1)

I work with mostly men.  I have for all of my career I dare say.  Between my time in the US Navy and my time now in the Shipping industry (boats not UPS), you could say that I am surrounded by them.  This time of year often leads them to ask me questions about what to get the women in their lives for Valentines day.  So for the next few days I am going to be showing you some things that I think are top notch ideas (this will also serve as a cheat sheet for my man). 

One Kings Lane has rapidly become one of my most favorite websites.  They are running a sale now entitled : La Vie Parisienne.  Lovely.  I adore these simple bangle message bracelets:  https://www.onekingslane.com/product/31903/1795701 and at $29 how can you not amore them?? 

This sale also has some great other items like the pearl and chain bracelet:  https://www.onekingslane.com/product/31903/1795715 . 

If you must give something with a heart on it:  https://www.onekingslane.com/product/31903/2017696  I don't really fancy hearts - but this one is nice and I like the lock look. 

Now if you are looking for something a little bit more pricey - women love a fabulous clutch.  This is my top pick for spring.  From my other fav, Kate Spade - the Carroll Park Fabric Adelaide is to die for:  http://www.katespade.com/CARROLL-PARK-FABRIC-adelaide/PXRU4770,en_US,pd.html?dwvar_PXRU4770_color=974&cgid=ks-handbags-clutches#start=2&cgid=ks-handbags-clutches  The colors are fabulous and the size looks just right to catch your eye.  Plus - how can you not love Kate Spade gift boxes - colorful and fun!

More gift ideas to follow gentlemen...oh and ladies - I'll be putting together some ideas for you too. 

[makehappybehappy]

the first day

All my life I have been happy.  Happy but not fulfilled.  I have a beautiful son - 3 glorious step kids - a loving partner - 2 golden retrievers and a job that others envy.  What's missing?  I am not doing anything that I am passionate about.  So it starts here.  I love doing things for other people:  giving them gifts, surprising them, going the extra mile to make a party or dinner or the ordinary extraordinary.  I think that if I share those little things that I do to make others happy, I can make my love of giving into something better, something bigger.  So here we go.  Creating this blog seems like a risk - but I am really excited to see where it goes.  Watch this space.  Maybe it will make you happy too.