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

I.  With FB’s “Year in Review” constantly reminding me why I’m so thrilled to welcome 2015, I decided to make this week’s Monday Merriment all about celebrating the new year in style.  Two years ago, I threw a lavish dinner party for a few close friends and documented the black/gold/cream tablescape, painstakingly planned menu, and darling raspberry adorned rosemary sprigs for champagne flutes.  If you’re doing something similar, take a peek at the post for last-minute ideas.

II.  These adorable canapes are incredibly easy to put together and perfect for impressing your New Years Eve dinner or pre-party guests.  Ingredients: 10 baby red potatoes, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 cup creme fraiche (or sour cream), and 30 grams of caviar.  Instructions:  Cut potatoes in half and remove a tiny sliver off the bottom of each (so that they stand up on a platter), toss in olive oil, salt and pepper, then bake at 375 degrees for 30 minutes.  Let potatoes cool, then place a dollop of creme fraiche and a sprinkle of caviar on each.  Serve immediately.

III.  If you’re still looking for something to frolic in on Wednesday, pop into Zara to pick up this sequined stunner.  I’m also obsessed with this black open-back dress if you’d prefer to be slightly less sparkly.  Even if you aren’t in the market for New Years Eve, the entire store is on sale - so stop by before the spring collection arrives.

IV.  With most hair and makeup appointments booked well in advance of NYE, I have an AMAZING solution if you’re like me and haven’t already secured something.  StyleBee is a fantastic new app offering beauty on demand.  With as little as two hours notice, you can have a team come to your own home to do your hair and makeup (including lash application) for $135.  I can’t wait to experience the service my friends can’t stop raving about!

V.  No plans to ring in the new year?  I just heard that there are still tickets available for Seth MacFarlane’s performance with the San Francisco Symphony.  The ridiculously smart, funny, and charismatic entertainer will sing his Broadway and Jazz favorites.  (Here’s a sneak preview of Seth performing Ain’t That a Kick in the Head with the John Wilson Orchestra).  Maybe you can talk him into watching the fireworks with you post-show…

Have a wonderful week and a happy new year!  xx tt