Tag: tablescapes

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The Tastiest Cilantro Margarita

This Cilantro Margarita has a little twist on it. With super fresh ingredients it is perfect for Cinco de Mayo, a neighborhood BBQ or just a girls night on the back porch. I know you are going to love it.

The main ingredients we are going to use in this cocktail are tequila, lime juice, homemade simple syrup, cilantro, kosher salt, and ice. We’re going to keep it clean and keep our ingredients fresh and to a minimum. First we are going to select our glass and use a little bit of the lime to coat the edge of the glass. If you prefer no salt, but the best way to rim the glass is to use a little bit of the lime to moisten the edge and use kosher salt.

Cilantro Margarita recipe perfect for a summer celebration Cinco de mayo, BBQ, neighborhood block party anappealingplan.com by krayl funch 66 1000x

I only like a little bit of salt, so what I prefer to do is dab on a little tiny bit. Next pick off some of the cilantro leaves and place them in the glass. I know cilantro can go either way – you either love it or you hate it, but I happen to love it, so any time I can get fresh cilantro from the farmer’s market, I go ahead and grab it and make as many things as I can. I love it with tacos, guacamole, really anything. Even when we go get sushi I ask them if they have any cilantro – if they have it I just tell them to add it any roll they can!

After you add the lime and cilantro muddle then together. The juice of the lime will help mix that up. Muddle it and then add the lime juice. I always prefer to use fresh squeezed and natural, but if you can’t, the Key Lime very tasty.

Cilantro Margarita recipe perfect for a summer celebration Cinco de mayo, BBQ, neighborhood block party anappealingplan.com by @KraylFunch 14 1000x

A little bit of simple syrup just in to add a little bit of sweetness, then tequila and add in ice. Once you add your ice, stir and top it off with a sliced lime wedge.

I love the bright lime that makes it a little sour, and the cilantro. It’s a lot of cilantro flavor but not too much. Then a little bit of simple syrup makes it a little bit sweet, but honestly, you could do without that. Just depends on how you like your cocktails.

Cilantro Margarita recipe perfect for a summer celebration Cinco de mayo, BBQ, neighborhood block party anappealingplan.com by @KraylFunch 51 1000x

 

THE CILANTRO MARGARITA RECIPE

INGREDIENTS

lime wedge, to muddle and as garnish
kosher salt
1 ounce lime juice
1/4 cup cilantro leaves
1.5 ounces tequilla
1 ounce simple syrup
ice
lime wedge

METHOD

Moisten the outside edge of the glass with a lime wedge, dip in kosher salt to edge with salt. Place wedge in glass with cilantro leaves and muddle together to break down the cilantro leaves. Add lime juice, simple syrup, tequilla and ice. Stir together to combine.

Garnish with lime wedge and serve very cold.

Makes one cocktail.

Be sure to check out all the festive recipes from the Sunday Supper Community – And a special thank you to Marlene of Nosh My Way for hosting and with Sunday morning link updating from Cindy of Cindy’s Recipes and Writings

Tidbits and Pupus

Breakfast

Companions

Condiments and Sauces

Coolers

Main Event

Delectable Delights

Tropical Foods and Drinks Sunday Supper

Wine Pairings

Sunday Supper MovementJoin the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. To get more great Sunday Supper Recipes, visit our website or check out our Pinterest board.

Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.

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Clinton Kelly + Macy’s {#tabletoptuesday}

I have been shouting from the rooftops that entertaining at home and dinning around the table are coming back in style and now one of my favorite male TV personalities, Clinton Kelly, has recently launched an amazing dinnerware line with Macy’s to put an exclamation point on my effort.

#EffortlessTable-collection- #CelebrateEveryday @AnAppealingPlan #entertaining #style

You may know him from TLC’s What Not To Wear and more recently ABC’s The Chew, he is quirky, handsome, obviously loves his job and now loves tableware as much as I do…whats not to love!!

Kelly’s new collection is bright, cheerful and all about the mix and match style we love these days. Even the marketing is full of color and artistic details, tablescapes featuring long tables lined with citrus, cherries and succulents encourage us to gather at the table for a fun-filled meal. Bright pops of color explode underneath artist embellished salad plates – very Andy Warhol is you ask me.

I love talking about dinnerware and tablesettings and so I give a huge, thank you Clinton and Macy’s for giving us here at An Appealing Plan a reason to come back to #TabletopTuesday in a big bright way! Congrats on the collections. Cheers!

Seems Clinton and I are pretty much soul mates after all, as made clear by his response to my tweet to congratulate him on the launch. Check it out here and click the image to read more! {don’t forget to follow us both on twitter and let Clinton know I sent you to congratulate him!}

@clintonkelly & @kraylfunch new #bffs chating about #tableware and #entertainingathome

 

 

What do you think of the collection? Love it or Leave it? Let me know in the comments. And make sure to sign up to receive updates to your inbox! Happy Entertaining!

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Passion To Print: Final Days of Kickstarter Campaign

A heartfelt thank you to you all for your support of the Kickstarter project! We are heading into our final 8 days of pledging and we are currently 65% funded towards the $5,000 goal.

20140703-101942-37182745.jpg
{are you a backer? Proudly share this image along with the link:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/286026825/an-appealing-plan-the-book}

As I mentioned, we are shooting the last of the sections of the book this month and a few days ago I brought together friends and their families for a summer gathering on the river complete with crabs, corn, craft beer and a selection of summer berries. The day was perfect, the shoot was a success and we ended the day on a boat ride on the river. Read more about the day on the post page here.

Writing and shooting for this book have reinforced my love and passion for celebrating everyday, for gathering friends and truly connecting with each other and my surroundings. This is part of the journey I did not expect, but am blessed to be able to experience it.

Thanks to all your support, we’ve raised over $3,000 and have the best backers I could ask for however, we still have a way to go to reach our goal of covering the cost of the first printing – as you know we need to raise the full $5,000 to receive any funding at all. This means we only need to sell 52 more books! I know we can do it but I need your help, if you are considering supporting the book please head over to secure your pledge today. If you have already pledged, can help us by sending the message to just one friend or family member who you think would be interested in pre-ordering of the book. I believe we can easily reach our goal by getting message out there this week!

Thank you for your support and for believing in this book {and me for that matter}. I appreciate everyone of you and feel as if we are on this journey together!

Thank you again!!

XO- Krayl

Looking for more ways to share the message? Head over to the Social Share Library.

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A Classic Blue + Silver Centerpiece

One of my favorite entertaining tips is for every host to have a “go-to” centerpiece or arrangement that they can easily pull together in a moments notice when friends or family give the word that they will be stopping by, or simply to have on your kitchen table to welcome you home each day. This classic Blue and Silver centerpiece using Hydrangeas is at the top of my list as it is a fantastic combination of simplicity and elegance.

themed centerpiece @AnAppealingPlan #hydrangea #silver #DerbyParty

To watch this video click on the image below.

My favorite silver vase to use is similar to the mint julep cups found at the Kentucky Derby. I love to mix and match different sizes to create a centerpiece. For this centerpiece we’re going to use julep cups, one taller and one smaller as well as two different size Hydrangea.

SUPPLIES:

 

 

 

  • Tall Silver Julep Cup
  • 2 Blue Hydrangea Blooms
  • Kitchen Shears
  • Water

 

DIRECTIONS:

Fill julep cups with water approximately half full.

Cut your hydrangea stems to the correct height by placing your cups on a table and measuring the height of the stem so the bloom will sit in the cup just above the rim. For this particular floral centerpiece you will want them to rest just above the top. Cut off the appropriate amount off the bottom of the stem.

Pull the two vases together to create small centerpiece or create a larger version by grouping several julep cups.

Silver and blue is a perfect classic combination for gatherings throughout the year but particularly during the spring and summer months, this arrangement is perfect for a Kentucky Derby gathering or Garden Party.

Read more by visiting eHow.

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A Posh New Year’s Eve Entertaining Tablescape

New Year’s Eve is one of my favorite holidays and the perfect excuse to set a festive table. Whether you are hosting a dinner party for 20 or preparing a romantic dinner for two, a perfectly set table will set the tone for the entire night.

My White & Metallic tablescape was featured in Tampa Bay METRO magazine December/January 2014 Holiday Entertaining Inspirational Settings pages.

TB Metro December Cover @AnAppealingPlan NYE #Tablescape

TB Metro December Page 37 @AnAppealingPlan NYE #Tablescape

Metallics mixed with Black + White is an elegant and classic combination for this yearly celebration. Mix various size vases down the center of your table, filling some with silver beads, others with noise makers or curled ribbon. To keep the floral minimal as well use only one or two colors per vase.

New Years Eve Tablescape via @AnAppealingPlan #holidaytable #anappealingplan logo

Don’t be afraid to mix your plate patterns, especially if they have metallic accents. Pull it all together with a solid black napkin wrapped in silver beaded garland.

New Years Eve Tablescape via @AnAppealingPlan #holidayTable #designMyTable #BlackAndWhite #ribbons

Just add  champagne and celebrate in style!

Where are you celebrating New Year’s Eve this year? Let me know in the comments. LIKE + SHARE this post. And of course…sign up below to receive updates to your in-box!

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Christmas Table Decorations With Fruit & Nuts

Seasonal Decorating with Fruits and Nuts via @anappealingplan #holidaytable @ehow 403

Not all centerpieces need to be made from flowers. During the winter season there are a variety of fruits and nuts that become available in the farmers markets. Combining these natural elements with candles creates a beautiful display that can be made ahead of time and placed on your holiday table to greet guests.

In this video for eHow I show you an easy way to incorporate fruit and nuts in to your holiday decor.

Click on the image to start the video. If the image does not display click HERE to start the video.

 

I love to create decorations that can be used in multiple locations and that can be left out for more than one day! This fruit and nut display can be placed on your holiday table, mantle, or entrance way table, anywhere that you would like to bring a little bit of a festive feeling to the season to your home.

SUPPLIES:

  • Large Glass Cylinder or Vase
  • Glass Candle Stick
  • Taper Candle
  • Cranberries
  • Clementines
  • Hazelnuts, Walnuts or Mixed Nuts
  • Star Anise

Place the small candle stick holder at the bottom of your tall glass cylinder.  Beginning with the cranberries, make a small base around the bottom that the clementines will sit on. Add five or six small clementines on top of the cranberries. Sprinkle nuts over the clementines to begin to create colorful layers.  Add another layer of the cranberries and drop in the star anise.

Finally place your candle stick in place.

Designer Tip: Stick-um is a great product to use in this situation where the candle may tip over. Simply place a small amount of it in the candle stick and it will hold your candle in place. A little decorator’s tool, and then, that’ll help keep your candle stick straight.

Create a larger display by using  multiple vases in different shapes. Place on your holiday table and enjoy the candle light and warm Anise scent.

What are your favorite fruits to use during the holidays? Decorating or Cooking, share two in the comments below. LIKE + SHARE this post with friends and family using the social share buttons below and sign up for FREE updates!

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Easy Placecards for Your Thanksgiving Table

 

Using hand stamped gift tags for your dinner place cards is an easy and fun way to add style to your Thanksgiving tablescape.

SUPPLIES NEEDED:

Using your guest list write the names of your guests on the back of a stamped gift tag. Thread ribbon through punched hole and tie around napkin.

Place napkin on plate making sure it lays flat and the ribbon bows are in order.

{these hand stamped gift tags are available in our Esty Shop. Visit it by clicking here now!}

When you will set your table? The day of or the night before? Let me know in the comments below. Like & share!

Looking for other Fall Decor ideas? Check out Decorating with Indian Corn or Decorating Your Entranceway for Thanksgiving

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It’s not what I do. It’s what I do, can do, for you.

Thoreau suggests you should:
“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams!
Live the life you’ve imagined.”

But are you? Are you living the life you’ve imagined?

Has the pursuit of your career dreams taken a toll on creating a balance in your personal time and environment?
Of course you love your family, just as much or more than your business. But how can you be everything to everyone, and everywhere, all at the same time? You are successful in the workplace, but struggle to get it all done at home. All while still striving to be the best spouse and mother you can be.

Do you sometimes think, if you just had help you might be able to:  Entertain more often and with less stress; add those final design touches to your home; properly decorate for each season; have a welcoming entranceway; or perhaps even cook brunch with the fresh herbs cut from your own garden.

You know, live like Martha does.

SOLUTION:

People ask me: “What is it that you do Krayl?”

There is usually a pause.

The problem is, it’s not that cut and dried. It’s not that simple to explain what it is I do.
It is a different project every day. Not one particular project fits everyone’s lifestyle needs. For some it is creating the perfect entranceway for your home. (I call it my gateway drug. Try it sometime, you will love it.) For others it may be planning a dinner party you have been wanting to host for clients, complete with the perfect tablescape, menu, wine and flowers. For some a project entails redecorating a guest room and bath to prepare for their summer guests’ arrival. Other days you may find me styling for a photo shoot.

Every day is completely different in my life and I love it all. It’s not simple to explain because . . .

It’s not what I do. It’s what I do, can do, for you.

I’m not always sure what I will be doing next week. What I do know is that it will be giving you the support you need to let you get out there and be who you want to be.
Essentially, I put the LIFE back into your LIFESTYLE.

While this may seem like a luxury, in the long run, I can save you time and stress. From overwhelming projects to simple tasks, always check with me first, let’s discuss your needs and find a solution. Creating personalized environments for gardens, gatherings and everyday living is my passion, my gift to you.

So go out and create the life of your dreams, everything will be ready when you come home.

If this sounds like exactly what you need, head over to my newly focused website for more information. Or simply email me directly today with your concerns and start living the life you’ve imagined.

If you’re not quite ready yet, not to worry. I will continue to post tips and ideas for you

right here on An Appealing Plan.

XO ~ Krayl

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Seasonal Decorating: Styling a Spring Coffee Table

Dilemma:

“I want to bring the feeling of Spring into my home decor but my budget is small and my available time is even smaller. Can you help me?”

Solution:

I hear this dilemma quite a bit during workshops and classes. You want to refresh your home each season, and although you want it to look like a million bucks, you don’t necessarily want to invest a lot of time or money doing it. Creating a seasonal display on your coffee table is an easy way to bring Spring into your home and many of us already own these suggested items.

 

  • Wooden Tray
  • Your Favorite books or magazines
  • Decorative Box
  • Decorative Coasters
  • Potted Bulbs or Spring Flowers

 

Once you have raided your closets and collected all your items in one place it is simply a matter of placing them in an appealing manner on your table.

 

Check out this video I just made for you with simple tips for styling your coffee table that can be done in a matter a minutes. It will have you ready for entertaining or simply whistling like a spring bird in no time.

Now it is your turn, I want to hear your design dilemmas. Leave one concern you have about seasonal decorating in the comments below and we may answer in an upcoming video or session.

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Show Your Valentine Some Tablescape Love!

Valentines Day is more than just about a romantic dinner. Show the ones you love, how much you care for them at each meal of the day. These tablescape inspiration work for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

VALENTINE’S DAY BREAKFAST TABLESCAPE

An Appealing Plan VDAY Tablescape Conversation Heart Placesetting

Start the day off right. A DIY “Be Mine” note card placed on a breakfast plate says you are special to me. Add candy conversation hearts and your love is sure to head into the day with a smile.

VALENTINE’S DAY LUNCH TABLESCAPE

Setting a Lunch time Valentines table is sure to surprise your loved ones. Use layered red doilies under a salad plate to  add color to the table. Then place a puffy red heart on top of the napkin. Paper heart straws are easily found these days in local stores and also on-line.  {see the step-by-step tablescape set up by visiting A Romantic Table For Two article here.}

VALENTINES DAY DINNER TABLESCAPE

Valentines Dinner Tablesetting Ideas via @AnAppealingPlan #KraylFunch

Are you looking for more inspiration!

Check out the Step By Step instructions for a romantic table on the Table For Two story.  Or maybe you have questions on placesettings in general and how to set a table. Or feel free to SEARCH a particular holiday in the search box at the top!

XOXO lots of love – krayl

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A Romantic Table For Two Please

#AnAppealingPlan Valentines's Dinner Romantic Tablescape

Creating a romantic tablescape for Valentines Day Dinner, Breakfast or Lunch can be easy.  Using your standard white plates and the addition of a few items from your local craft store your table will be ready in no time.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED FOR YOUR ROMANTIC TABLESCAPE

  • White Dinner Plate x 2
  • White Salad or Accent Plate x 2
  • Red Heart Doilies x 6
  • Crisp White Cotton Napkin x 2
  • Red Heart Ornaments or Similar x 2 +
  • Silver Flatware
  • Black or Clear Stemware

#AnAppealingPlan Valentines's Dinner Tablescape Supplies

Place one dinner plate at each placesetting.

{For more detailed information on placesettings see Place Settings Explained}

#AnAppealingPlan Valtines's Dinner Tablescape White Plate

Place three red heart doilies in a circular pattern on top of plate so that the top of each heart is touching the outside edge of the plate.

#AnAppealingPlan Valentines's Dinner Tablescape 4

Place white salad or accent plate on top of doilies. Adjust edges as needed.

#AnAppealingPlan Valentines's Dinner Tablescape Ideas

Fold white cotton napkin in three. Turn left side under, turn right side under to create a long rectangle. Place on top of salad plate.

#AnAppealingPlan Valentines's Dinner Romantic Tablescape

Place a red heart ornament on top of napkin to add a special touch.

#AnAppealingPlan Valentines's Dinner Tablescape Romantic table ideas

Add flatware to each as well as a carefully selected glassware. White or silver votives create a warm glow.

For your centerpiece rather than the standard purchased mixed bouquet, try something different. Think outside the box, get creative with a Love Tree, Love Pond or put two red fish in bowl to represent each of you.

Add your favorite person and let the sparks fly!

Make sure you check out the other #SundaySupper participants to see what they’ve made for our Valentine’s Day #SundaySupper!

#SundaySupper Valentine’s Day Breakfasts, Apps & Main Dishes:

#SundaySupper Valentine’s Day Sweet Eats:

#SundaySupper Valentine’s Day Drinks:

#SundaySupper Valentine’s Day Tablescape: A Romantic Table For Two Please from An Appealing Plan

Join the #SundaySupper conversation on Twitter today to talk all about Valentine’s eats and treats! We’ll tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET and you do not want to miss out on the fun. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag, and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat.