Happy Hour: Watermelon-Basil Margaritas

Picture and recipe Via MarthaStewart.com

Ingredients

• 7 1/2 pounds seedless watermelon, rind removed, fruit cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 teaspoons superfine sugar
• 6 ounces (3/4 cup) silver tequila
• 24 basil leaves, plus sprigs for garnish
• 3 ounces (1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons) triple sec
• 6 cups small ice cubes

Directions

1. Place 24 watermelon cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Cover, and freeze at least 1 hour (up to 2 days).
2. Puree remaining watermelon and the sugar in a blender until smooth. Pass through a sieve lined with cheesecloth into a bowl. (You should have 3 cups.)
3. Place tequila and basil in a glass pitcher, and crush with a wooden spoon. Stir in watermelon juice and triple sec.
4. Place watermelon cubes in glasses. Using a cocktail shaker, mix 3/4 cup margarita with 1 cup ice. Strain into a glass. Repeat. Serve garnished with basil.

I can't wait to try this delicious cocktail! 

-a.e.h.

Raising the Bar: Part 2

Via MarthaStewart.com

There are a few tools that every home bar needs.  Take a look at this quick list:
Ice Bag
Cracked ice is the best way to have super cold cocktails (the little pieces have an increased surface area). Simply put cubes in the sack and whack with a club. 

Muddler
Often, the best way to get fresh fruit into a drink is to cut it into pieces and crush it in the mixing glass. This tool is a must if you are making mojitos!

Ice Cube Trays
Make drinks like they used to!  Big, dense cubes will stay cold without getting watery. 

Jigger
A jigger helps you to measure out the perfect amount for each cocktail.

Cocktail Shaker
Professionals prefer the two-piece Boston shaker to the three-piece kind with the spout in the top. Drinks strain fast, making for less dilution and better sipping.

Strainer
To get the drinks out of your Boston shaker, you'll need a good strainer. 
Ice Bucket

Have a bucket of ice next to your glasses so it is easy to mix up a quick drink. For cocktail parties, allow for a pound of ice for each guest.

Bar Spoon

Stir your martinis and Manhattans to make them colder and silkier.

 

-a.e.h.

Raising the Bar: Part 1

I believe that having a well stocked home bar is very important! That is why this week I will be bringing you some tips on how you can create your very own!   When done right, a home bar is something that reflects your personal style.  Take a look at some of these for inspiration!

All images Via Pinterest

Keep checking back this week for home bar necessities, cocktail recipes, the best bar carts, colorful stemware, and more! 

-a.e.h.

Entertaining Tips: Using Citrus Fruit for Decor

Creating a stunning display or centerpiece doesn't have to be hard OR expensive.  Use citrus fruit for an affordable fix for any party or reception. When you mix the bright color of a citrus fruit with the rich green of it's leaves you get a look that is crisp, clean, and ultra chic! The best part?  You don't have to be a floral designer to acheive this look!

Isn't this citrus wreath beautiful? I am obsessed! Via Elizabeth Anne Designs

Are you as crazy about this lemon leaf garland as I am? Click Here for the how-to!

Via Project Wedding

Pile lemons, oranges, or limes into a pretty bucket or pale add some leaves and viola!
Via Real Simple

A citrus tree in a colorful planter looks great in your home all the time! For a party use a couple on the table for a centerpiece or on a buffet table for decor.

-a.e.h.

Paris Fashion Week: Elie Saab Fall Winter 2011 Haute Couture

I always adore Elie Saab's gorgeous gowns and this collection was no exception! I love the sheer fabrics, the sparkles, the silhouettes...I am in lurve!

My favorite from the collection!!

Another favorite! Always love the deep-v

All pictures are from http://www.style.com/

Are those gowns not to-die-for?! Although, I must admit, I would probably remove the floral detail at the waist. 

Do you have any predictions on which celebs you think will be wearing this collection on the red carpet? I would love to hear!

-a.e.h.

1. Suno Ikat embroidery paneled top 2.

Kenneth Jay Lane

22-karat gold-plated bracelet $120 3. Matthew Williamson sequined suede clutch $730 4. Striped Shorts $26 5. Hermes ballerina flat shoe in blue suede $570 6. Mara Hoffman embroidered balconette bikini $275 7. Elizabeth and James bianca bleached denim shirt $175 8. Sequin Cleopatra rope necklace $60 9. Kiehl’s blue herbal gel cleanser

Hope everyone had a great holiday weekend! Check back for more tomorrow

-a.e.h.

Dreamy Outdoor Spaces

SWIM

Incredible Sea Pool Via Lolitas



Dream pool Via Pinterest



Italian Villa Via Architectural Digest



DINE 

Pink outdoor dining space Via Mix and Chic



Love the pinic tables and the citrus trees Via Habitually Chic



Via House Beautiful



RELAX

Wouldn't mind napping here!

Have a family movie night! Via Pottery Barn



Via House Beautiful


Have a great holiday weekend!

-a.e.h.