Infusing grandeur into otherwise drab Mondays with five things/ideas/events for the week:

I.  Typically, the weather dictates my menu. But this week, the weather has absolutely no idea what it wants (sunny skies Monday to rain storms Wednesday) leaving me to make my culinary decisions on my own. And so I decided Tuna Tostadas with Chipotle Aioli and Crispy Leeks sound like the most delicious dinner ever tonight. Inspired by the Tacolicious appetizer, raw sushi grade tuna paired with the perfect combination of spice and fried leek goodness make for one of my favorite meals, rain or shine.

II.  As much as it pains me to say this, I know that most of you don’t have the patience to go to the Flower Mart every time you have company. If you do, hats off to you. If you don’t, let’s stop pretending and find another way to make your tablescape the most beautiful version possible for your guests. Using greens as a base (eucalyptus, moss, rosemary sprigs) in lieu of a runner, scatter candles down the center of the table. The important factor here is to use candles with varying heights (tapers, votives, and tea lights) to create a striking display of flickering light. 

III.  What’s better than balloons? Tulle covered balloons. How have we never thought of this before?! The duo is hands down the most exciting decor invention I’ve seen this century. And the best part is that it’s both easy and inexpensive to recreate. Whether you’re throwing a naughty bachelorette (note the black tulle above), baby shower (pink/blue/yellow) or wedding (white, blush, or metallic) the party props will make a surprisingly beautiful backdrop for your event.

IV.  A few weeks ago, I mentioned my predilection for temporary white hexagon tiling (preferably carrara marble) that’s ideal for renters. It’s since been brought to my attention that many of you are no longer renting, and desire a more permanent, even more chic, option for your bathrooms and kitchens. Enter AKDO’s insanely gorgeous line made with hand-cut bits of mirror and channel-cut stone borders done in bronze, pewter, and silver. The tiles are sold to those in the trade only, so ask your contractor to add these to the list of must-haves for your renovation ASAP.

V.  Imagine the following scenario…  You have guests coming into town with plans to dine out at every foodie spot our city has to offer. But you also want them to feel at home come Sunday morning with an easy breezy homemade breakfast. Preferably one that makes your home smell like a boulangerie transported straight from Paris. You don’t have to be a master baker or hire a Kitchit chef to turn this dream into a reality. Trader Joe’s has masterfully developed a frozen pain au chocolat that you defrost overnight, brush with an egg wash (beaten egg and water), then bake for twenty minutes. Indulge yourself by keeping a few boxes in the freezer for company. Or yourself ;)

Have a wonderful week!  xx tt