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

I.  With wedding season right around the corner, bridal showers are in full bloom. Achromatic black and white is my go-to scheme, but it’s a bit boring for girlish celebrations. Adding shades of blush to a classic striped runner via florals and gigantic balloons makes for the chicest tablescape. I love the simplicity of the bouquets composed entirely of roses and anemone (in season now). Whimsical birdcages finish things off elegantly.

II.  I’m obsessed with my friend Katie’s Etsy store, specializing in vintage Art Deco jewelry. Always on the look-out for unique pieces to kick my gala-attire up a notch, Katie’s carefully sourced pieces are the ideal accouterments. From citron and canary to saffron and marigold, yellow is making a major presence in Spring 2015 collections - and these 1920’s dragon earrings are the best way to stay on-point this season. Use code valentine20 to save 20% off the entire shop today only.

III.  We’re on the eve of the most glutenous day of the year. Fat Tuesday, also known by its french moniker “Mardi Gras” means eating, drinking, and partying to the point of excess right before giving it all up the next day for Lent. Whether you indulge in Town Hall’s annual party, featuring N'awlins fare, masks, dancing, Hurricanes, and Caipirinhas - or something slightly more lascivious down at Mauna Loa, don’t miss the opportunity to play in our unusually warm weather tomorrow night!

IV.  Speaking of all the gorgeous sunshine we’ve had over the long weekend, I’ve been craving something refreshing from my kitchen. These Grapefruit Cupcakes are a flawless combination of tart and sweet. A vanilla cake base is augmented with fresh grapefruit, lemon zest, and Triple Sec to create the perfect poolside confection. 

V.  A vase that I use in my interior design projects seems to be popping up in every home magazine that’s arrived at my doorstep lately.  The Kabasa Vase from CB2 is a dead-ringer for Jonathan Adler’s iconic white ceramic collection, at a fraction of the cost.  Scoop one up before the insider’s secret is out!

Have a wonderful week!  xx tt