Diamond Events by Tiffany

New blog to show my creative side.

2010-11-14T08:45:00.001-08:00

http://ramblingsfromagirliegirl.blogspot.com/ Please drop by and say "hello". It is a bit more active than this one at the moment.

Spring Break 2010

2010-05-01T22:02:00.001-07:00

Go Fight Win!!!! Good Luck to Jordan!!!

2010-03-24T19:57:00.000-07:00

My dear neice, Jordan, will be trying out for 8th grade cheer leader this Friday night. She is a cheerleader for the 7th grade, so she knows the drill. I just wanted to say Good Luck to her and I know she will do her best.

I really hope she makes it, we had such a good time going to her Football and Basketball games this school year. Oh....and she looks just adorable in her cheer uniform.

She is the girl in the front.

I am really enjoying a new "toy" I got last week. It is the Xryron Wishblade. It is an electronic cutter that cuts all these cute little die cuts. I have used them in making cards, invitations, wedding favor bags and boxes, so far. I am new at this but having so much fun with the creative process. Here is a card I made for my neice's try-outs to wish her luck. I am entering it in Couture Cardstock's Daily Contest.

The first pic is the cover, then the second, and on the last David and I will write a personal note.

I am in love with the sillouettes.

Hope everyone has a great, and dry weekend.

Best Wishes,

Tiffany

http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

Top O'the Morning to you!!!! And a Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!!

2010-03-17T05:30:00.000-07:00

St. Patrick's Day is one of my most favorite holidays. All the bright, pretty green is like a Spring awakening from a dull drury winter. I love green, and it looks good on me, if I do say so myself (hey...what can I say? I am blonde and fair skinned). I LOVE the fact you can wear silly curled toed Leprechaun shoes or bobbling shamrocks on your head. The sillier the better.

We spent Saturday morning at the Greenville Avenue 31st Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade. I read that this year had a record attendance and beleive me...it WAS crowded. But not too crowded to have a lot of fun. We rode the Dart train and just made it a fun time. My neice, Jordan, brought a friend and her mom (Krystal, my sister), my mother, AJ and his fience Holly, and David and I all got up bright and early to head down to Greeville Ave. Everyone was Irish, that day.

We caught a lot of beads, saw dogs all decked out in green, and took a lot of photos

Tonight we are going to an Irish Pub but since it is in the middle of the week, I am sure it will not be too wild. We hope you have a fun and festive St. Patrick's Day. Be safe!!!! If you are hosting a party or just looking forward to a quiet evening at home, these cupckaes from Celebrations.com are the perfect treat.

St. Patricks Day Chocolate Guinness Cupcakes

yeild 24

Ingredients

• 1 Cup Guinness Extra Stout

• 1 1/2 Sticks Unsalted Butter

• 3/4 Cup(s) Unsweetened Chocolate Chunks

• 2 Cup(s) All Purpose Flour

• 2 Cup(s) Sugar

• 1/2 Tablespoon Baking Soda

• 3/4 Teaspoon Salt

• 2 Large Eggs

• 3/4 Cup(s) Sour Cream

Steps

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees

• Bring stout and butter to a simmer in a large saucepan over medium heat. Do not boil.

• Add unsweetened chocolate chunks to hot stout/butter mixture. Whisk until chocolate melts. Turn heat off and let cool.

• Add sugar to chocolate mixture and whisk to combine.

• Sift flour, baking soda and salt.

• In a stand-alone mixer with a whisk attachment, combine the eggs and sour cream on medium speed.

• Add stout-chocolate mixture to the egg mixture and combine on medium-low speed until encorporated.

• Slowly add flour mixture in thirds to chocolate mixture with whisk attachment. Scrape the sides with your whisk to make sure you get all the dry ingredients combined.

• Place cupcake papers in pan and divide batter into cups evenly. Fill about 2/3 of the cup.

• Bake for 18-24 minutes or until the tops are firm to the touch, and a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the cupcake.

• Let cool on wire rack before frosting.

Guinness Buttercream Frosting for St. Patrick's Day Cupcakes

IngredientsBest Wishes,

• 1 Cup(s) Unsalted Butter (room temperature)

• 2 1/2 Cup(s) Sifted Powder Sugar

• 1/4 Cup Milk

• 1/2 Whole Scraped Vanilla Bean

• 1/2 Tablespoon Vanilla Extract

• 1 Cup(s) Guinness Extra Stout

Steps

• In a sauce pan, simmer Guinness on low heat for 10-15 min, until it stout becomes reduced and thicker in consistency. Similar to a syrup. *Tip: keep your eye on the store, so stout does not over cook. Let cool.

• In a stand alone mixer, cream your butter for 1 minute

• Slowly add the powder sugar in thirds, alternating with a little milk each time till mixture is creamy.

• Add scraped vanilla bean and vanilla extract.

• Slowly add reduced Guinness a little at a time. Taste test to desired flavor. You may not use all the Guinness reduction.

• Place buttercream in a piping bag with a #848 french star tip, frost cupcakes and enjoy!

Tiffany
http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

Pete's Piano Bar

2010-03-16T06:27:00.000-07:00

Good morning,

This morning's challenge from Couture Cardstock is to use circles. I am posting this on my blog as a way to enter that challenge.

Unfortunatly, the second part of this 2 page layout will not be posted. Too bad cause it is really cute...but we were at Pete's Piano Bar and well...inappropriate things seem to happen at Pete's and it was captured in the background of a very good photo of our group (the only group shot we got). It is funny to look at and rmember but not for a contest.

I go to Pete's for my birstday every year and since David's B-day is the day before mine, we had a combined celebration.

If you have never been to Pete's, you should really go. If you enjoy loud, offensive (at most times), and just acting crazy, you will love it. It is really fun for a Bachelor or Bachelorette Party.

Best Wishes,

Tiffany
http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

Cute as a Button

2010-03-11T10:31:00.000-08:00

I am entering a design contest for paper crafts at Couture Cardstock. This is a layout featureing my darling neice Jordan. She had just come off of the soccer field, looking fabulous.

This started out being a door hanger but I am going to keep it as a scrap book entry. I placed the bright green cardstock behind the layout when scanning and I think it really makes it POP....so I am keeping it. I love how accidents become something worth keeping.

Wish me luck,

Tiffany
http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

DIY Bride Tip: Couture Cardstock

2010-03-11T06:05:00.000-08:00

If you are a DIY Bride or just love playing with paper, you should check out Couture Cardstock. They have an amazing line of paper that has a lot of possibilities.

They have a color pages of color combinations and most wedding colors are available. How pretty your DIY menus or programs would be on their specialty papers. They have several weights and finishes and even a pure silk blend.

"Couture Cardstock only offers products we use in our personal paper crafting. We acknowledge that you work hard for the money you earn, and we think you should get to keep more of it in your wallet." (from their website http://www.couturecardstock.com/)

Check them out, they even have a "buy one / get one free: section.

Best Wishes,

Tiffany

http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

Super CUTE Super Bowl Cupcakes

2010-02-05T11:16:00.000-08:00

Need a fun idea to bring to the Super Bowl Party? Try these Super Cute Super Bowl cupcakes.

The recipes and directions for these Super cuties can be found at http://www.celebrations.com/

Go Saints!!!

Best Wishes,

Tiffany

http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

Chic Wedding Trends for 2010

2010-02-01T12:49:00.000-08:00

According to The Wedding Report, The holiday season is the most popular time of year for engagements. Approximately 650,000 couples become engaged between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day. The Wedding Report also reports an estimated 2.2 million weddings projected in 2010. As they plan, brides will discover their preferred style for the celebration. Getmarried.com reports, “From runway fashions and edible passions to techie automations and color saturations, the new bridal trends are all about personalization and expressing your unique bridal style.”

Wedding trends for 2010 combine the “wow” factor and unique details to show the couple’s personal style.

Some of the trends are:

1. Receptions featuring “comfort foods” like mini cheeseburgers / sliders, mashed potato bars, pizza and even pot pie. Wolfgang Puck advises, on getmarried.com, “Upgrade ingredients and prepare them with great expertise. Serve hors d’oeuvres like Kobe burgers, wild mushroom risotto, smoked salmon pizzas, slow-braised short ribs or a simple chicken pot pie with lobster.”

2. Wear-again bridesmaid dresses. In this economy, many cannot afford a dress they will never wear again. Keep this in mind and choose a bridesmaid gown to suit each bridesmaid and one she will be seriously able to wear again.

3. Men go Old Hollywood Glam. Grooms want to show their personal style, too. Let them show their charm in a dapper white tuxedo with black-rimmed lapels or a sharp-looking vest and nostalgic pocket watch.

4. Brides are blogging. “Now more than ever, Get Married is seeing brides enjoy sharing snippets of surprises, ideas and images throughout their wedding planning experience”. Everyone loves feeling clever with their details and DIY projects and reading feedback with comments from other brides. There are many formats for wedding blog, http://www.mywedding.com/, http://www.getmarried.com/, and http://www.bridaltweet.com/ are just a few that offer blogging options.

5. Chic personalized details. From monograms on the cocktail napkins to childhood photos as the table numbers, personalized details are a top trend for 2010.

This is YOUR day; let your true style and personality show.

Best Wishes,

Tiffany
http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

But your Guest List and have a Fabulous Wedding on a budget

2010-01-23T13:45:00.000-08:00

Saving money, while planning your dream wedding, is easier said than done. Budgets are tight and weddings can get very expensive. According to The Wedding Report, a market research publication, the average American wedding costs almost $29,000. That is AVERAGE. Most people do not have that kind of budget. A wedding does not have to cost more than a new car. In fact, remember that the more “high-end” weddings of more affluent families skew these figures. So how can a wedding be planned, on a lower budget and still be a fun, exciting, and fabulous event?

After becoming engaged, it is important for couples to set down with who ever else may be involved in financing the wedding, and come up with a budget. Include all money that is available for financing the wedding. It is best not to take out a loan, if it can be prevented. No one wants to enter their new married life in debt. A great tool for assistance in coming up with a wedding budget is a “Wedding Budget Calculator”. A Budget Calculator can be found by doing a search on Google, or at most commercial wedding websites. Most are similar and one is no better than the other. The calculator tool will include all the pertinent items, such as catering and flowers. It is important to be able to account for every little item in order to keep on the strictest of budgets.

Discuss the vision for the perfect day. Make a list of what is important to you and what will be necessary to make this day happen. Jot down what is absolutely needed, such as officiate and wedding license. The only requirement to be married is someone to officiate and a license. That would make everything very simple, if one were talking about just being legally married. However, wedding planning is an entirely different matter. For most, must haves to host a wedding include ceremony site, reception site, wedding rings, flowers, favors, lighting, DJ or band, and let us not forget the white wedding dress. The list can go on and include so much.

There are many ways to cut the wedding budget. One can still have a fabulous wedding on a smaller budget by cutting out unnecessary items and focusing on a few details that are important. One of the easiest ways to cut the wedding budget is to cut the guest list. This alone will possibly cut the budget by thousands of dollars. When the number of guests are cut, other cuts will follow. So much of the budget goes on a “per person” basis. If there will be a meal at the reception, the catering cost is “per guest”. The guests will need a place to sit, cutting down on this number will cut down on tables, chairs, and place settings. When the numbers of tables are cut, naturally, the numbers of centerpieces are cut; in turn, this cuts the flower budget. One can see how once the ball is rolling in cutting out each item, the budget will go down, as well.

How can one cut the guest list when there are so many people to invite? Well, first decide whom it is necessary to invite. Close family and friends, of course they make the cut. However, is it necessary to invite your dad’s, boss’s daughter? Is she a close friend or an acquaintance met a few times at company parties? So you grew up, next door to someone all of your life, how long has it been since you have seen or communicated with this person? If it is over a year, it might be ok to leave them off the list. Unless the parents are helping with the wedding bills, it is not necessary to invite their friends. If a family friend has had an influence, of course find room on the guest list. Leave off “And Guest” on the RSVP card, and cut the guest list even further. If a guest is in a committed relationship of more than 6 months, their significant other’s name is added to the invitation. This should end confusion if a “date” is to be included. Adjust these tips to fit your needs and you will see your budget decline.

According to Bridal Association of America, The average wedding caterer cost, including food and food service, drinks and drink service and cake and cake cutting fees is $12,790. (http://www.bridalassociationofamerica.com/Wedding_Statistics) If the average wedding guest count is 150 people, that comes to about $85.00 a person. If 50 people are cut from the guest list, there is a savings of $4,250.00 on catering alone.

Since catering is not the only cost that is dependant on the number of guests, the savings will add up in other areas, as well. For example, since the guest list has been cut by 50, and most round tables in reception halls seat 10, you are eliminating 5 tables. In turn, there is an elimination of five table clothes, five centerpieces, and 50 chair covers and sashes. If each of the items are broken down with the average cost, here are the savings:

Tablecloth 17.50 x 5 = 87.5
Centerpiece 60.00 x 5 = 300.00 (average centerpiece cost, found on ProjectWedding.com was 50.00 to 70.00)
Chair Covers and sashes 3.50 x 50 = 175.00
Total savings: 562.50

Cutting the guest list by 50 people has saved almost $5000.00 on the total cost of the wedding. This is just taking into account the above examples. Having a dream wedding is within reach while inviting those who are most important in a couples life. Just think with a smaller guest list, there will be more time to spend with each of the guests. They are there to celebrate this occasion, after all.

There are many creative ways to cut the budget down to what is more affordable. Cutting the guest list is only the beginning of what can be done. The “average” wedding cost of 29, 000 is not required to have a fabulous wedding.

Best Wishes,

Tiffany
http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

Low Carb Cheese Blintzes

2010-01-04T07:18:00.000-08:00

For all the brides who made "lose weight" a New Years resolution, here is another low carb dish. I found this recipe on Kimkins.com.I went on a low carb plan in 2007 and I lost 95 pounds in less than 6 months.

try this yummy dish....

Low Carb Cheese Blintzes

Written by Kimmer on 12/16/09

Makes 10

Egg White Crepes

10 large egg whites
1/8 teaspoon salt
16 teaspoon cinnamon

Cheese Filling

16 oz 2% cottage cheese, drained
4 oz ricotta cheese
1/4 cup light sour cream
3 packets Splenda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/16 teaspoon salt
Davinci blueberry sugar free syrup

Place cottage cheese in a mesh strainer sieve inside a large bowl and let drain in the refrigerator overnight. Discard the liquid (whey). Don't skip this step or you'll have watery crepe filling.

Crepes

Treat a heavy 8" nonstick skillet with cooking spray. Heat on medium low. Pour in 2 tablespoons of egg mixture and tilt to cover bottom of the pan with a thin coating. When the sides start to crisp up, carefully flip for 5 seconds and remove to a warm plate.

Filling

Add drained cottage cheese, ricotta, sour cream, Splenda, vanilla and salt to a blender. Blend until the filling is smooth, about 2 minutes.

Place a crepe on a work surface with cooked side up. Place 1/10 of cheese filling about 1 1/2 inches from the top of the crepe. Fold top edge of the crepe over the filling and fold both sides inward to enclose the cheese. Roll the crepe over to seal the filling in.

Treat nonstick skillet with cooking spray and fry the blintzes on both sides until the filling is hot and brown spots appear on the crepe, 1 to 2 minutes per side. Drizzle with blueberry syrup and enjoy!

Tip: Add fresh blueberries to syrup for non-low carbers.

Calories: 88
Carbs: 3 grams
Protein: 114 grams
Fat: 3 grams

Personally, I am recommitting to my attempt at healthy living. What better time to start than the New Year? If you are planning a wedding and have a beautiful white dress to wear, and want to drop a few pounds, join me. I heave read, do not remember where, that those with support are more likely to stick to a weight loss plan. Whatever you choose to follow, good luck!!!!

Best Wishes,

Tiffany
http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

Lapis and Green

2010-01-01T13:37:00.000-08:00

I absolutely love the deep color of lapis with the bright cheerful green. They compliment very well together.

A great way to decide on the colors of your wedding, or any event, is to find photos that inspire you and put them together to see if they fit.

Here I used photos I found on the internet of weddings in the colors of lapis and a bright green.

Be creative and see what you can come up with.

Best wishes,

Tiff

http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

Seven Great Last Minute Ideas For Throwing A Fabulous New Years Eve Party

2009-12-30T11:41:00.000-08:00

1. Sugar those rims - Nothing screams fabulous like a decked out sugared rim. Think margarita salt but for mocktails. Use superfine sugar and a couple of drops of food coloring in a Ziploc bag. Seal and shake so that the food coloring distributes itself evenly. Use a lemon wedge to wet the rim of the glass and dip it in a shallow plate of colored sugar (or graham crackers, cinnamon-sugar, crushed candies, etc.)

2. Accessorize! - It's tough to be bummed when you've got choices. Offer your guests individual candy canes to hook on their glasses, mini cinnamon candies to drop into their "cocktail", frozen cranberries to jazz things up and even fun mini fruit skewers (think sliced star fruit or kumquats).

3. Have cool options - Nothing is worse than screaming "I'm the designated driver!" by requesting the only non-alcoholic beverage at the bar, bubble water with a twist. Offer your guests lots of non-alcoholic alternatives using interesting juices, flavors and mocktail combos they might never thought of. Think passion fruit juice, real ginger soda, fizzy lemonade and sparkling peach juice.

4. Go shopping and get colorful - Sitting at home trying to get creative can be a little challenging so get online and go and visit a few major liquor store chains and search out some cool non-alcoholic additives. These days there are tons of mixers that don't contain any alcohol at all but can look like the full on martini (for adults or kids!)

5. Get decorative - Use funky vinyl decals to trick out all of your basic holiday glasses so everyone can focus on the visual feast or just rent frosted glasses, different colored martini ones or throw in a few lit ice cubes or neon stirrer sticks!

6. Don't forget the kids - Most of us don't want the little ones running around half cocked, nor do they want to be left out of the fun. Come up with drinks that they already enjoy and jazz them up. Think pink milk (with a little red food coloring), a sugared rim and a candy cane stirrer.

7. Remember the hot stuff! - The holidays are as much about good friends and festive decorations as they are about wonderful smells of the season. Why not put some hot cider on the stove with cloves and cinnamon or some hot, fresh ginger tea? You can even make "cappuccinos" by brewing a pot of coffee and frothing your own milk with a little hand held number from IKEA. As long as you have alternatives, your guests will forget they aren't totally trashed!

I got these ideas from a Leading Entertainment Expert, Entrepreneur, TV Personality, Coach, Author and Sought After Speaker, Marley Majcher. She is the CEO of The Party Goddess! and publisher of the ezine, "How To Be A Party Goddess". http://www.howtobeapartygoddess.com/

Best Wishes,

Tiff
http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

A wonderful alternative to the Champagne Toast

2009-12-29T09:44:00.000-08:00

Here is a great drink to toast in the new year. If you are tired of the old Champagne toast, try something new. Here is a sample of what MyPunchBowl.com has to offer in drink recipes.
Kiwi Sparkle

Enjoy this unexpected take on champagne. Garnish with a slice of kiwi to give guests a hint at what’s inside.

3 oz champagne
½ oz kiwi liqueur
1 oz kiwi juice

To make this alcohol free, try sparkling cider.

Be sure to check out http://www.mypunchbowl.com/ for all of your party and entertaining needs. They have many more champagne coctails to try.

Best Wishes,

Tiff
http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

Six Flags Holiday in the Park (Arlington, Texas)

2009-12-27T13:52:00.000-08:00

One of the holiday traditions my family and I share is going to Six Flags Holiday in the Park. We have been going, every Holiday Season, since we were children. Now, we are "grown-ups" and are able to share this tradition with our significant others and children.

When I was younger, I was always the one to wait and wait and wait while most everyone else rode the big roller coasters. I am not a roller coaster kind of gal....and I am so happy that my loving husband agrees and sits with me while we are waiting for others to enjoy the ride. I did brave Tony Hawks Big Spin, however, and OMG....I LOVED IT!!!!

We have our favorite rides. We enjoy the snake thingie in Spain, that used to be the Bobsled (before they called this section Spain, I think....a bobsled would not work well in "Spain"), El Concistidor, the ship that swings back and forth....when I was younger, I used to be afraid that this ONE TIME would be the ONE TIME it went all the way around....leaving us hanging upside down (ok...I admit, I still think like this), the swings, and of course, the old time cars.

This is just a fun time to act like a child and let loose. The lights and holiday decorations really get you in the spirit. If you have some free time this next week, take the drive to Arlington and spend the day. Be sure to stay until dark so you do not miss the best of the lights. Holiday in the Park is open thru January 3rd, so get out there and have some fun.

The lines are not as long as they can get during the summer. We did plan ahead and bought our tickets and parking pass online at http://www.sixflags.com/. Also, I believe that Albertsons has discount tickets that you can purchase ahead of time.

Best Wishes,

Tiff
http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

It is not too late to get your holiday cards to those you love...

2009-12-22T07:36:00.000-08:00

So many of us get super busy during the holidays. The kids’ activities holiday and end of the year parties, and of course the end of the year brings a multitude of things to take care of, at the office. It is no wonder we forgot to get the annual holiday cards in the mail. It is not too late to send them out, just do it by email, instead.

It is preferable to keep holiday greetings personal, and with eCards, you can still be unique. There are many sites you can join, to create eCards, such as www.ecards.com and www.Evite.com. Each of these sites has many options to choose from and all you have to do is sign up to be a member. As a member, you also get tips and tricks for party planning sent to your email inbox.

Another site, www.mypunchbowl.com, gives these tips when sending ecards:

1) Make a special video. The great thing about annual holiday greetings is that you get to show everyone the latest picture of your family or just of the kids or your pets. Video cameras like the flip make it easy to take and upload videos. Bring your eCard to life with a video of the kids singing their favorite holiday classic. You could also give a quick video update about what the family has been up to this year rather than having recipients read a long message.

2) Take a holiday picture. My friend took the cutest picture of her 6-month old daughter surrounded by stuffed dreidles for their Hanukkah cards this year. The holiday-inspired picture was a really nice touch on her holiday cards. With digital cameras, you can take as many photos as you need to get one that works - trust me, I know that can be tough, especially with little kids and pets. A nice picture by the Christmas tree, outside playing in the snow, or sitting on Santa's lap are just a few ideas for holiday pictures

3) Seal it with a KISS. Keep it simple, sweetie. No one wants to read a family update that goes on and on and on. If you don't opt for a video update, write up a family update that is thorough yet concise. One editing tip is to type our your update, then reread it a couple of times to see what you can cut out. Your recipients will appreciate the extra few minutes you took to edit it down. (I found these tips @ mypunchbowl.com)

If you are like me, you prefer the old-fashioned way to send a greeting, but let's face it...time has a way to get away from us. With ecards you can still get your greeting out while making a vow to do better NEXT year. ; )

Best Wishes,

Tiff
http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

Bacon Wrapped Turkey Fingers: Low Carb Holiday Treat

2009-12-17T06:19:00.000-08:00

Here is another low carb appetizer to get you thru the holidays. These are very good, but I skip the tabasco when I prefer something a little less spicey. You can also get creative with spices. Add what you like and enjoy.

Makes 16

1 lb turkey breast

8 thin slices bacon
2 tablespoons Kraft Light Done Right ranch dressing

5 shakes Tabasco sauce
garlic powder
fresh cracked black pepper

Very simple appetizer for entertaining, Kimkins snacking or portable work lunches.

In a small dish mix ranch dressing with Tabasco and a couple shakes of pepper. Stir and pour into a Ziploc baggie, squeezing out all of the air and sealing.

Cut turkey into 16 narrow pieces of about the same size. Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt & pepper. Cut bacon strips in half lengthwise to make long narrow strips.

Snip the tip off of the Ziploc baggie and squeeze a narrow ribbon of salad dressing along the bacon strips. Take each bacon strip and wrap in a spiral around the turkey finger. May need to secure with a toothpick and remove after cooking.

In a nonstick skillet treated with cooking spray, place the turkey fingers. Spray with cooking spray and cook on medium, turning to cook evenly. Cook until bacon is crispy and turkey is done. Serve hot as is or with dip.

Tip: Make it quicker with precooked smoked turkey from the deli section and cook as above.

Calories: 49
Carbs: 0 gram
Protein: 8 grams
Fat: 1.5 gram

Enjoy!

Tiff
http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

Six Fundamental Mistakes When Selecting THE Ring...

2009-12-14T09:28:00.000-08:00

Six Fundamental Mistakes When Selecting THE Ring...

Now that we are in the Holiday Season, Chanukah is well underway and Christmas is right around the corner, couples young and old are getting engaged. This is what, we in the wedding industry, call "Engagement Season". Buying an engagement ring can be a bit overwhelming, or so I hear. I have never bought one so I turned to my wonderful husband on what advice he might have for a gentleman buying THE ring. He directed me to the Robbins Brother's website, http://www.robbinsbros.com/. They are "The World's Largest Engagement Ring Store" and are very helpful when it comes to educating their clients on pick the best ring.

Here are some of the mistakes Robbins Brothers advises to avoid, when selecting a ring:

1. Don't buy a ring without the Manufacturer's Trademark stamp.

2. Beware of gold that may be under-karated, even if it's stamped.

3. Beware of buying a diamond that may be fracture-filled to temporarily hide inclusions or laser-drilled to remove dark inclusions.

4. Beware of buying a diamond of lower color than promised.

5. Beware of buying a diamond of lower clarity than promised.

6. Beware of buying diamonds that have less carat-weight than quoted.

For more tips and a fabulous selection of engagement rings, visit The World's Largest Engagment Ring Store, Robins Brothers. They have retail stores located in Dallas (close to the Dallas Galleria, off of the North Dallas Tollway, 14080 Dallas Pkwy. Dallas, TX 75240) and Arlington, if you live in the great state of Texas and in Southern California. My husband got my ring at the Dallas location and we HIGHLY recommend them. The staff was very helpful.

http://www.robbinsbros.com/

This is a very important purchase, she will wear this for many years to come, hopefully the rest of her life. Be sure to get the best quality for your money. Personally, I would prefer quality over the size of a diamond.

Best Wishes,

Tiff

http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

Party Bites. Low Carb and Easy: Cheese Lovers Zucchini Puffs

2009-12-10T08:15:00.000-08:00

The holidays can wreck a diet. But why sacrafice taste and feel deprived at the many holiday gatherings you may attend? In our most perfect world, we would be able to mingle, have a great time, and stay AWAY from the food table. I know my willpower is not that grand. Offer to bring a few hors d'overs and be assured you will have something yummy to snack on.

Here is one to get you started:

Cheese Lovers Zucchini Puffs

Makes 36

2 medium zucchini
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese

1/3 cup light mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon basil or favorite herb
1/8 teaspoon pepper

Directions:
Preheat broiler to 500 degrees.
Slice zucchini into about 18 rounds
In a large bowl, mix cheese, mayo, basil, and pepper (I add a little garlic)
Spread about a tablespoon of the cheese mixture on each of the zucchini rounds
place on a greased (just a light spray of pam to keep this light) baking pan.
broil for about 60 seconds, or until cheese starts to bubble and melt.

Serving size is 2 rounds
Calories: 23
Carbs: 1 grams
Protein: 1 grams
Fat: 1.5 grams

I know, as a recent Bride myself, that it is hard to stick to a diet plan with all of the celebrations. Add the holidays to the mix and you might as well just throw in the towel, right? NO!!! Be creative, keep your hands busy, mingle AWAY from the food....but if temptation gets the better of you, find something that will not bust out the stays in your corsetted wedding dress. Those are expensive to repair!!!

Tiff
http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

ICE @ the Gaylord Texan in Grapevine, Texas

2009-12-08T12:32:00.000-08:00

Ice at the Gaylord Texan

Gaylord Texan has the ICE experience every year but 2009 is different because they have How the Grinch Stole Christmas on display. In fact, that was what most of the exhibit featured. This was our first year to go and we had no idea the line would be SO LONG. It took longer to get thru the line than it did to walk thru the exhibit...and we bought tickets online BEFORE we got there...AND we were the first in line for our "seating". I think they sell so many for each "seating" that they get so far behind. Do not go thinking you will see the exhibit at 5:30...or even 7pm if you buy a 5:30 "seating". They did have a few distractions while we were waiting. There were a group of carolers that did a few songs and a lady with a really cute monkey. He was not shy and seemed to enjoy the attention....much like David.

Every time you turn a corner or walk thru another door, you think it is time to go in...Ha ha ha...FOOLED again, you are just going to stand in another LINE. Then they give you the coats / parkas (whatever) and you get all bundled up and start getting in the mood to experience ICE...and then you wait in another LONG line...and burn up because you put on the coat. LOL.

Once you FINALLY get in, it is really cool. The sculptures are beautiful. I love Grinch so that was fun. I cannot imagine how long this takes to build...so let's look on their website at http://www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylord-texan/lone-star-christmas/the-ice-experience.html. "ICE! will be created by dozens of artisans who migrate to the Dallas / Ft. Worth area each year from Harbin, China to craft this elaborate attraction out of nearly 2 million pounds of ice. It takes them nearly an entire month of 12-hour shifts to transform the refrigerated tent where the exhibit is held into a remarkable icy wonderland."

You do not even realize this is in a tent. They say it is 9 degrees, and I believe it. Even though you get a parka, dress warm and bring gloves.

My favorite part was the ice slide. It was actually made of ICE. I am a big girl and was a little uneasy about going down the slide...but I am glad I did. I would have liked to go again but, of course, the lines were too long.

All of the major scenes and memorable characters of Whoville were featured. The colors were beautiful. My niece asked if they used Kool-Aid to get the ice to change colors. We teased that we were going to taste the ice to see. I do not know what they used but it was pretty.

At the end of the exhibit, there were other sculptures of the typical Christmas scenes. I do not remember other religions represented, it would have been nice to see something about Hanukkah. Shame.

After waiting in the lines, I felt rushed to get thru the exhibit. Maybe there is a less busy time to go. We went the Saturday after Thanksgiving, so maybe a...Tuesday morning would be better. LOL.

All in all, this was a fun outing...but we all agreed it is not to be a family tradition. We did enjoy the Gaylord and all the pretty holiday decorations. We try to get out there every year. I will blog and post some photos of the hotel later this week. If you have a chance, get out and see the hotel....and if you have over two hours to stand in line...go see ICE.

Tiff

http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

Budget Tip for a Fun Holiday Party

2009-12-04T11:02:00.000-08:00

Here we are, the holiday season. This means gifts, family time, making memories, and PARTIES!!! If you are one who likes to host parties but your budget does not have much wiggle room, there are ways you can still be a wonderful host without breaking the bank.

One of the best ways to save on any party is to not host at a mealtime. Instead, have a dessert party. One of the wonderful things about the holidays is all of the yummy sweets. Christmas cookies, cakes, tarts, candies, and pies...OH MY!!! Hunt thru your recipe box and pick a few to serve, or better yet, introduce a new dessert you have been wanting to try (you might want to have a trial before your guests arrive). We all have family favorites that bring back memories, so invite your neighbors over and share.

Here is a new and colorful cookie I want to try this year. I found this on http://www.epicurious.com

Seven-Layer Cookies Gourmet

Deep almond flavor and sophisticated apricot and pure chocolate accents give these cookies a cosmopolitan air.

Yield: Makes about 5 dozen cookies
Active Time: 1 1/2 hr
Total Time: 11 hr

4 large eggs, separated
1 cup sugar
1 (8-oz) can almond paste
2 1/2 sticks (1 1/4 cups) unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon almond extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
25 drops red food coloring
25 drops green food coloring
1 (12-oz) jar apricot preserves, heated and strained
7 oz fine-quality bittersweet chocolate (not unsweetened), chopped

Special equipment: a heavy-duty stand mixer; a small offset spatula

Put oven rack in middle position and preheat oven to 350°F. Butter a 13- by 9-inch baking pan and line bottom with wax paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on 2 ends, then butter paper.

Beat whites in mixer fitted with whisk attachment at medium-high speed until they just hold stiff peaks. Add 1/4 cup sugar a little at a time, beating at high speed until whites hold stiff, slightly glossy peaks. Transfer to another bowl.

Switch to paddle attachment, then beat together almond paste and remaining 3/4 cup sugar until well blended, about 3 minutes. Add butter and beat until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add yolks and almond extract and beat until combined well, about 2 minutes. Reduce speed to low, then add flour and salt and mix until just combined.

Fold half of egg white mixture into almond mixture to lighten, then fold in remaining whites gently but thoroughly.

Divide batter among 3 bowls. Stir red food coloring into one and green food coloring into another, leaving the third batch plain. Set white batter aside. Chill green batter, covered. Pour red batter into prepared pan and spread evenly with offset spatula (layer will be about 1/4 inch thick).

Bake red layer 8 to 10 minutes, until just set. (It is important to undercook.)

Using paper overhang, transfer layer to a rack to cool, about 15 minutes. Clean pan, then line with wax paper and butter paper in same manner as above. Bake white layer in prepared pan until just set. As white layer bakes, bring green batter to room temperature. Transfer white layer to a rack. Prepare pan as above, then bake green layer in same manner as before. Transfer to a rack to cool.

When all layers are cool, invert green onto a wax-paper-lined large baking sheet. Discard paper from layer and spread with half of preserves. Invert white on top of green layer, discarding paper. Spread with remaining preserves. Invert red layer on top of white layer and discard wax paper.

Cover with plastic wrap and weight with a large baking pan. Chill at least 8 hours.

Remove weight and plastic wrap. Bring layers to room temperature. Melt chocolate in a double boiler or a metal bowl set over a saucepan of barely simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat. Keep chocolate over water.

Trim edges of assembled layers with a long serrated knife. Quickly spread half of chocolate in a thin layer on top of cake. Chill, uncovered, until chocolate is firm, about 15 minutes. Cover with another sheet of wax paper and place another baking sheet on top, then invert cake onto sheet and remove paper. Quickly spread with remaining chocolate. Chill until firm, about 30 minutes.

Cut lengthwise into 4 strips. Cut strips crosswise into 3/4-inch-wide cookies.

Cooks' note:

Cookies keep, layered between sheets of wax paper or parchment, in an airtight container at room temperature 2 weeks.

Enjoy.

Tiff
http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

Snow is Falling

2009-12-02T07:30:00.000-08:00

Snow is falling
From the sky above

Snow is falling
Put on scarf and glove

Snow is falling
Go look outside
Snow is falling
The old landscape it hide

Snow is falling
What a beautiful sight
Snow is falling
It sparkles in the light
Snow is falling
Soft cotton wool flakes
Snow is falling
A white blanket it makes

Snow is falling
Short flowers disappear
Snow is falling
The cold is here

Snow is falling
Its time to play
Snow is falling
Lets make snowmen today :)

~Micron

The photos are the view I have from my window. Absolutly beautiful. I was thinking last night, that 2 months ago, I was on my way to Hawaii. I was pretty down thinking how cold I was last night and wishing I was going to the beach, instead. But now, looking out the window of the home I share with my wonderful husband, David, I am so happy to be here and enjoying the beautiful view. I know, living in Texas, this will not last. It is melting, as I type. I can here the "drip, drip, drip" of the snow melting.....but I will enjoy it while it lasts.

I am looking forward to a nice fire in the fireplace tonight. I wish all of you a safe trip home, if you are out and about today.

Tiff

Create a Fabulous First Impression with Fun Invitations

2009-11-30T08:57:00.000-08:00

First impressions are very important and that is what your invitations are...the FIRST impression of a fabulous party. You want your guests to think your party is going to be a MUST ATTEND event. You want them to be excited, look forward to being there, and anticipate other wonderful and interesting people will attend. IVillage.com suggests the following for creative invitations, "send a sprig of holly with details listed alongside a lipstick-imprinted kiss, affix a swizzle stick with a promise of a great custom cocktail you plan to serve or shoot out an Evite with whimsical holiday-inspired verbiage. ("Join Vixen and Prancer on the dance floor and Blitzen as he strikes his usual barfly pose.")" You can read more at iVillage.com.

Remember to include all of the pertinent information on your invitations, such as start / end time and what kind of party you are planning. If it is a dinner party, for example, you want your guests to arrive with an appetite. In addition, a good rule of thumb is to send your invitations at least two weeks (three is event better and at least 2 months for a wedding) ahead of your party. This will give your guests time plan accordingly and RSVP.

Personally, I prefer invitations that are mailed the old-fashioned way but if time is a problem and money is tight (and that is the case for most of us these days) sites such as Evite.com might be the answer. Evite.com has really fun options and great party tips, too.

If you have the time, be creative with your invitations. DIY with supplies from the scrap booking department of your local craft store. Your imagination is your only limitations. Here are some we are designing for my niece's 13th birthday party.

You can made these very simply by cutting damask card stock, adding crystal embellishments, cropping blue and coordinating blue and brown card stock and adding the details. How cute are these for a soon-to-be teenage girl's party?

Tiff
http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

Thanksgiving Tablescapes

2009-11-25T08:58:00.000-08:00

I love. LOVE. L O V E!!! Pretty tables. I try to have my own dinning room table "made-up" and looking it's best, I love looking at it and creating the different looks. David really enjoys it, too. I rotate the settings and centerpieces regularly and match the decor to the holiday or seasons.

You do not have to break the bank to do this, use what you have and be creative. Take out grandma's antique linens and your wedding china (you registered for it, someone bought it...now USE it) and set up a formal look. Don't have enough wedding china to complete the table? Mix and match like you see at some tearooms. Thrift stores and estate sales always have an assortment of mix and match china that you can grab at a steal.

For a beautiful Thanksgiving table, Hobby Lobby and Michael’s have some great finds. Start with a gold table cloth and add a brown runner (buy some inexpensive satin brown, or color of your choice, cut to about 5 ft long and 1.5 to 2 ft wide, hem to finish and add tassels). Wal-Mart had some very cute brown leaf placemats this season or make your own mats with left over brown fabric, very easy to do. Add gold chargers on top of the placemats and ivory plates. Place a small pumpkin in the center of each plate. A cornucopia with dries leaves or seasonal flowers, small gourds and a mini scarecrow as the centerpiece completes the look for a festive Harvest tablescape. Oh, do not forget napkins, glassware, and silverware.

This table was affordable to set. Most of the supplies were on hand from past years harvest decorations. Plates were inexpensive and runner, tablecoth, and napkins were handmade. Vases and votives were repurposed from other parts of our
home.

We hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Tiff
http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/

Do You Need a Coordinator?

2009-11-23T09:04:00.000-08:00

Do You Need a Coordinator?

Everyone can use a helping hand. As busy as today's couples are, this is especially true. There are so many tasks to perform when planning a wedding. Budget planning finding a venue, finding a dress, finding a baker, coming up with a guest list, addressing and assembling save-the-dates, invitations, maps, etc. Then there is the cake tasting, menu planning, flower picking (well picking a florist), arranging transportation...and the list goes on. So where in all of this is the time for romance, celebrations, bridal showers, engagment parties, WORK (ya gotta pay for all this, right?), and the always needed relaxation?

You might be fortunate enough to have an army of friends and family to help with all of this. That is great, if they have time. How many of these people have the connections and experience to find vendors in your budget? Or have the time to help you accomplish all of these tasks and design a beautiful event? These are just a few of the things a Professional can do for you.

I found a great list of just some of the things a professional can do for you at FrugalBride.com:

The list is long but here are a few of the duties you can expect:

Help you to create the type of wedding you want. With that knowledge, you will be able to pick your venue, vendors, color scheme, theme, music, etc.

Help you create a budget sheet and keep track of where your money is going and how much is still owing.

Help keep you on your budget and not go over...too much!!

Suggest vendors that fit your budget and ideas.

Make a wedding planning schedule so that you know what you've done and what still needs to be done.

In most cases, a coordinator can save you money because of their connection in the industry.

Take care of any emergencies that arise.

Create a wedding day schedule.

Best Wishes,

Tiff

http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com

Beverage Tips for your next party

2009-11-21T11:25:00.000-08:00

One thing I would like to do with the Diamond Events by Tiffany Blog is to provide some tips to help you with planning your own parties. Something that will come up for any party you plan will be beverages. What should we serve, how much, etc. Here are a few tips to get you started, just in time for all of your holiday gatherings.

1. Keep it simple.

2. If you're serving beer, offer one regular and one light.

3. If you're serving wine, offer a good merlot and chardonnay.
4. If you're serving soft drinks, we recommend offering Coke, Diet Coke, and 7-up.
5. Don't forget the bottled water and ice.
6. Feature one really good "house" drink.
7. Have enough glasses, but not five different kinds.
8. If you feature a martini, it's got to be in a martini glass.
9. The rule of thumb is to have 2-1/2 glasses for each guest.
10. Beverages need napkins. Get at least as many napkins as glasses - more if you're planning on using them for passed hors d'oeuvres.

I can not claim these tips as my own, as I am sure I read them somewhere over the years. Unfortunatly, I do not remember where to give proper credit. I have been doing events for years and reading tips and tricks even longer. Somethings, I pick up along the way. I hope these will help you at your next party.

Cheers!!!!

Tiff

What is your time worth?

2009-11-18T09:34:00.000-08:00

What is your time worth?

What is your time worth? The time spent with your fiancé. The time spent enjoying the life you are building together. The time spent on romance and making memories. This time is priceless. You cannot put a value on this time. Once it is gone, you cannot get it back. You want to make the most out of your engagement months.

DIYing takes many MANY hours. Late nights spent on projects. Why spend your engagement buried in DIY projects. Diamond Events by Tiffany understands that DIY projects make a wedding unique and personal and want to help you achieve the same outcome, and keep your sanity. We will customize a planning and design package for you and your fiancé. We have several options for the DIY bride. We will assist you in creating a wedding that is unique and with-in your budget.

Finding vendors also takes a lot of time. Do you really want to spend every weekend going from vendor to vendor, touring venues, tasting cakes (ok...maybe the tasting cakes part is not so bad ~wink~), wasting gas and time on numerous meetings. You might tour 5 or 6 venues and still be confused on what is the best deal. A professional wedding planner knows the venues in your budget and has numerous contacts in which she can negotiate options and fees to save you money. This will help save you time but leading you to the locations that will fit your needs, only having to tour the locations that will work for you.

Your time is valuable. Let us work together to same you time (and money).

Tiff

2009-11-18T08:47:00.000-08:00

The Importance of Shoes

2009-11-09T10:27:00.000-08:00

The importance I placed on my wedding shoes is beyond words. I think I might have loved my shoes more than the dress. They were perfection.

Why do shoes mean so much, especially to some women? They have always been important. How many of us had parents who kept our first pair of toddler shoes as a memento? We all grew up trying on mom’s high heels, they were so glamorous. If you were a ballerina, as a child, I am sure you remember your first pair of toe shoes. When I was begging for something unreasonable, I was told about how someone "walked to school and back BAREFOOT, in the snow (and added an "uphill both ways" if it was really unreasonable).

Shoes have played a big role in movies and fairy tales, too. Dorothy had her Ruby Red Slippers; she just had to click the heels three times to remember, “There’s no place like home”.The little girl in all of us cannot forget Prince Charming searching for the foot that fit the glass slipper….the foot of his future Princess, Cinderella.

My most important shoes were for my wedding day. They were Christian Louboutin HOT pink satin stilettos with a bow. All the older, more traditional people I know questioned my sanity on picking HOT pink shoes for my wedding day. Why not? I am known for my love of pink and I could argue that no one would see them under my dress. HA!!! I made sure EVERYONE saw them.

When shopping for your wedding shoes, have fun. Wear a pair that makes a statement about your personality (and stash a pair of comfy satin ballet slippers away for dancing). This one detail is something you may actually use again!!!!

Tiffany Powell, Event Designer
Diamond Events by Tiffany
http://www.diamondeventsbytiffany.com/
contact me for all your event and wedding planning needs