Selecting Personalized Stationery

Sep 25
As an admitted paper goods lover, the notion of beautiful personalized stationery makes my heart flutter! The holy grail of letter writing, personalized stationery fits the bill for an array of correspondence, including thank you notes, well wishes, sympathy, or a hello to a long lost pen pal. What does my personalized stationery look like, you ask? I recently had a gorgeous set of cream and pale blue notes monogrammed with my and my husband’s initials, as well as exquisitely lined envelopes with swirling, curling flourishes. Now that I’ve run out, I’m tickled pink to select a new set – oh how the options are endless! How does one choose with so many prints, patterns, and styles? Not to fret my pet, here are my tips as well as a round of up to inspire:

1. Throw on your spectacles, whip out the computer and do a bit of research! From Neiman Marcus to Cranes, there are endless amounts of retailers who offer stunning stationery, so one needs to get a lay of the land before making any rash judgments. By researching your options, it will also help you decide what style you’d like. Letter press? Folded notecards? Your monogram or name spelled out? Decisions decisions!

2. Choose a color a color and design that reflects your personal style. If you exude understated elegance, perhaps some classic monogrammed ivory embossed folded notes are the ticket. However if you’re a lady (or lad!) who gravitates towards the bolder things in life, how about a brightly colored family crest with your initials or clever arrangement of giraffes and your full name a la Mrs. John L. Strong. The choice is yours!

3. Once you’ve selected your fabulous stationery, you need to decide on the quantity. If you use stationery sparingly, I’d advise you order a set of 50 notes and envelopes, which should last you a while. If you’re getting married or have near approaching needs to write a high volume of thank you notes, then I would advise you order a larger quantity of 100-250. 

4. Consider ordering a set for yourself and your family. By this, I mean a set with just your initials (or name) and a set with your spouses and yours (combined initials or names) together. That way, you’re prepared for any stationery situation. Keep in mind though, ordering two sets isn’t a must, just a suggestion, dear readers!

5. After you’ve patiently waited for your notes to arrive, carefully house them in a lovely box in your bedroom or home office with pens and stamps to make letter writing a breeze. 

Ask B: Encouraging Guests to RSVP

Sep 23
Breakfast at Tiffany’s
Dear B, 

I recently hosted a wonderful cocktail party and the turnout was great. However, several guests never RSVP’d and then much to my surprise, just showed up. How can I politely encourage people to RSVP?

Sincerely, 
RSVP Please

RSVP, Darling, 
Hats off to you and your spectacular party! I’m sure it was the social event of the season and you played the part of gracious host perfectly. However, tsk-tsk to those naughty RSVP rebels! My advice: always include “RSVP by” and the date on your invitation, as this will kindly remind people they need to confirm their attendance prior to the event. If it’s a formal fete where you’ll be having a seated meal, or you absolutely must know the headcount to plan provisions, then phone those who haven’t RSVP’ed to see if they will be enchanting you with their presence. If it’s a more casual affair or your expecting a bevy of guests and one or two extra ladies and gentlemen won’t impact the sips, snacks, and seating, then pour yourself a glass of champagne and embrace “The more the merrier!” mentality. I know it can be nettlesome, however try to focus on your fabulous fete and enjoying being the hostess-with-the-mostess!

Fall Football Party Menu

Sep 19
Now that the much anticipated football season is in full swing, it’s a dazzling opportunity to gather family and friends for a little tailgating (MBB-style!). Of course, you don’t have to be a pig-skin devotee to indulge in buffalo chicken wings! The illustrious golden key to a successful football watching party? Invite those who are near and dear, and set up the game in one room and the nibbles in the other – serious fans will be able to view the all-star plays, while the rest of attendees can catch up over a delicious spread.

Whether you and a house full of fans are rooting for the Bears or the Broncos, cheer-worthy sustenance is a must, and so I’ve created a savory and sweet menu of appetizers that’s sure to be a touchdown with your guests. Enjoy!

Barefoot Contessa

Pioneer Woman

Pioneer Woman

Barefoot Contessa