Juliska: Elegant Glassware

I have been an admirer of Juliska glassware for a while now. I can spot it a mile away and am always drawn to it. It's defined by delicate details that almost look like water glistening on the outside of the glass. They have all sorts of products, from vases and votive holders to tumblers. Each one holds it's own beauty and could be left out as decoration no matter what it's intended purpose.

Many local boutique stores carry Juliska products, including other tableware goods. You can also purchase Juliska online at Sallie Home.

Bellisima!!!

Spoon Sisters: Party in a snap!

Here’s a fun idea for your next summer party! I was away in NYC for most of last week and weekend and was unfortunate to be there when they had record temperatures - Yikes was it hot, hot, hot!!! So if you are having a party in that kind of heat, the littlest effort possible is key. Available at Spoon Sisters, these “Everything You Need” place settings include the fork, knife plate, etc…even the name card and napkin ring! Just place these around the table and people can unsnap their utensils. What neat way to get your guests engaged and add a little quirk to the usual BBQ.

Bambu: Long Live the Spork!

Remember the spork from the school cafeteria and KFC? They have always been the butt of a joke, but I say they make a comeback, but not just any comeback, one with flare, and yes, one that's green! Here's the rundown of Bambu's sporkness:
- Certified Organic
- Made of 100% organically grown bamboo
- FDA approved food-safe - No bleaches or dyes
- After disposal, biodegrades in 4-6 months

I used these along with their small plates for a party and they were a big hit. How can you not have fun eating your food when you are using a spork?! They look stylish and you don't have to feel guilty about choosing convenience over doing the dishes. I have been able to find them more and more at places like Sur La Table and Amazon.com

Mepra: Good Silver Without the Polish

I saw this silver while out at a restaurant several years back in downtown Seattle. After looking on the back of the fork, we found that they were made by Mepra in Italy. Well, if it's Italian it must be good design, right?! I had remembered it ever since and knew that I wanted it for my good silver when the time came.

We recently ordered a set of 12 of the Natura and their lines are just beautiful. The handles have a good weight and girth to them which is important when picking out silverware. You want something that feels good in your hand. Nothing wimpy or flimsy. And my favorite thing of all is they are stainless steel so you don't ever have to polish them! I remember my childhood days when my mom ordered (yes I say "ordered" - it wasn't voluntary for sure!) me to polish the silverware and I hated it! So as an adult, I have vowed never to polish silver...well, except for a few pieces handed down from my grandparents. But for nostalgia reasons, it's worth it.

Mepra carries a vast variety of styles to suite any one's tastes and you know they are going to stand the test of time. My personal favorite of course, is the Natura because of it's beautiful and simple lines. Oh how they sparkle under the light!

CB2: Simplicity at a Great Price

I love a great looking glass that transcends all occasions. I bought these CB2 Marta glasses about a year ago and love them. They are delicate, classic and modern all in one. And the capper is that they are only $1.95 each (!!!) so if you break one - no sweat! So bring out your bestest looking glasses for a party without stressing about guests breaking them. I have yet to break one though...I may have just jinxed myself.

I currently have the Double Old-Fashioned, but I may order the Cooler as well. Drinks look fabulous in them no matter what the libation or festivity. Just be sure to have a coaster on hand. They tend to sweat with really cold drinks because they are so thin.