Fun Finds | Hester & Cook | Kitchen Papers

I have a new obsession: decorative papers from Hester & Cook.  Placemats, table runners, serving papers, coasters, napkins and much much more!

Exquisitely designed, these papers are the perfect unique touch to liven up your table or event.  Easy cleanup is just icing on the cake.  Here are a few ways I've used them...

Bar setup  |  Defines the area and keeps counters clean

Chargers underneath clear plastic plates  |  Sophisticated yet casual outdoor dinner

Cocktail party display  |  Invites guests to select their favorite glass

Placemats for a birthday brunch  |  Quick way to dress up the table
 

I'm dying to throw a party using this series featuring sketch designs of vintage couture, perfect for a bridal shower or an Oscar party! 

Visit www.HesterAndCook.com to see all of their designs and purchase your favorites.  Let me know how you enjoy them. 

Obsessed: Juliska Country Estate

My cousins and I stumbled upon the new Juliska line Country Estate while shopping in Franklin this weekend.  I am obsessed.  

Grey and white is kinda my obsession right now, so it's no surprise these speak to me.  Each plate features a different scene: Main House, Rose Arbor, Reading Pavilion, Apple Orchard and my favorite Tea Party Tent!  

As with pretty much all Juliska, these are great to transition from casual to formal.  Mix in pewter pieces to make more masculine, or lighter colors and textures to add a feminine touch.  I appreciate that each scene is beautiful, detailed and a bit whimsical.

  

Home: Dapper Dude Kitchen

If my kitchen had a theme, I'd want it to be Dapper Dude.  Fashion is always on my mind, but recently I have been pulling out old family recipes and trying to brush up on my cooking skills.  When I come across fun finds that make the process or presentation more fun, it's welcomed and added encouragement.  Check out these accessories that speak to both fashion and cuisine, closet and kitchen. 

 This napkin holder (set of 4) is from Lulu's in Franklin, my favorite!

This kitchen towel (made from antique linens) has a newly printed tophat design.  From Rebecca's in Franklin.

The Perfect Drink: Pimm's Cup

It's time to share my favorite drink with you guys.  I've enjoyed making this for years and am excited to see that some places around town now have this on their drink menu.  Originally an English thing, the popularity of Pimm's Cup is spreading worldwide.  It is traditionally a drink enjoyed in the Spring and Summer months, but I would't ever complain about partaking at any point in the year.  Here's my favorite way to prepare...

1) Use a muddler to mix chopped strawberry, mint and cucumber (most important ingredient to create the crisp fresh taste) in the bottom of your glass

2) Pour desired amount of Pimm's No. 1 liqueur 

3) Add in Canady Dry tonic water bitter lemon 

4) Stir, add ice and an extra sprig of mint

5) Squeeze fresh lime juice around rim of glass 

6) Enjoy!