And Baby Makes Three

I just received news that a good friend is expecting a wonderful addition to her family in a few months. The father-to-be is at a loss as to what would make the perfect gift for the expectant mother. I suggested he could never go wrong with a little blue box. Tiffany has the most adorable Baby Carriage Charms which can either be worn on a necklace or bracelet. Now...pink or blue??

Friday's Escape: Royal Mirage, Dubai

When I think of new luxurious places to visit, Dubai always comes to mind. The city's aura is one that can not be matched anywhere else in the world. I am most anxious to explore this ever-changing city. One of the most decadent properties in Dubai is the Royal Mirage. It combines the traditional architecture and exotic touches you'd come to expect in the UAE. Enjoy and happy travels!

Food For Thought Thursdays: Peach Sorbet

*Picture courtesy of Showcook
So I went to the market over the weekend and found the most fabulous peaches. It's hard to find the perfect peach, since these looked pretty good, I snapped up a few. After a day or two in a paper bag (helps with ripening), I wanted a fun and easy recipe to turn them into something fabulous. Peach Sorbet!
3 cups water
1 cup granulated sugar
2 cups peeled, sliced fresh peaches (about 1 pound)
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons lemon juice
3/4 cup orange juice

1.Combine water and sugar in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil; boil 5 minutes or until sugar dissolves, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat. Cover and chill.
2.Position knife blade in food processor bowl; add peach slices and lemon juice, and process until smooth.
3.Combine peach puree, chilled sugar syrup, and orange juice, stirring well.
Pour mixture into freezer container of a 2-quart hand-turned or electric freezer.
4.Freeze according to manufacturer's instructions. Pack freezer with additional ice and salt, and let stand 1 hour before serving.

Enough Said

"Everything you need to be brilliant is already inside of you." ~Simon T. Bailey, author of Release Your Brilliance

Be Still My Beating Heart

I believe a certain Venezuelan designer is attempting to woo my attentions from one Mr. de la Renta. Luckily there is room in my heart for two. The designer in question, Mr. Angel Sanchez, has created splendid resort and spring bridal collections for 2009. I implore the coming spring brides to consider the resort designs for your ladies-in-waiting. Trust me, they will thank you.
The dashing designer




Aren't these layers divine? How does he make them appear so light and airy?
He knows a short hemline is a direct pathway to my heart.

This gown would be ideal in a ballroom. I can imagine how the candlelight would play against the fabric to great effect.
The detailing on this gown is incredibly intricate but does not weigh it down. How does he do it?
You know this is my absolute favorite! Now imagine you have a lovely full gown with train following you about but you've no desire to have it trailing after you all night. This dress is party perfection! You can dance the night away while staying on-trend with wardrobe changes at the reception. (Plus your dry cleaner will thank you.)

No More Wimpy Tents

So you're planning an outside wedding or maybe you want a more heightened experience for the cocktail hour or afterparty, but you've yet to find that opulent, exotic even regal touch for which you've been searching...that is until now. Raj Tents has everything your little heart desires. The colors and designs are just outrageous. The company is based in California and will ship their incredible inventory nationwide. Aladdin never had it so good!

Friday's Escape: Ashford Castle

When I first learned of Ashford Castle in Ireland, I thought it would be prefect for a very intimate destination wedding. Spring would be the ideal time, of course. Imagine the romantic walks, the early morning horseback rides, the picnics, the fishing, relaxing after a day on the property's amazing golf course...hmmm quiet luxury, indeed. Happy weekend!