Here are some gift ideas for the summertime hostess with the most-est. Just because you’re going to a summer BBQ doesn’t mean you need to show up empty handed. There are fun gifts for your casual hostess that will just float her boat this summer…
All posts by Carolina V Gentry
postcards from dallas…
Happy Friday, friends!
I’m so glad the weekend is here! It’s been a busy few weeks with showroom visits, meetings, and just everyday life. Check out a some snap shots of what’s been going on in my world lately… new finds, buys, delish eats and some of my favorite things…
Weeknight Meals: Grilled Chicken + Hearts of Palm Salad
Happy Monday, friends!
I believe in always having a well balanced meal, even when it’s a quick throw together meal on a weeknight. I love to make even the easiest of meals delicious, healthy (when possible), and beautifully presented. This recipe was inspired by one of my favorite restaurants in Dallas, La Duni. When I find a dish I love, I try to replicate it at home. Get my version of the recipe & get the look to complete your weeknight dining experience…
Continue reading Weeknight Meals: Grilled Chicken + Hearts of Palm Salad
Sit + Sip: Island Mint Limeade Cocktail
There’s nothing better than sipping a refreshing cocktail in a chic & comfy chair on a hot summer weekend day. My current chair obsession is the Janus Et. Cie Amari High Back Lounge Chair. Not only is it available in an indoor and outdoor version, but this sculptural beauty comes in several different colors. We just ordered a low back pair for a Pulp Design Studios client’s outdoor patio. I can’t wait to see them installed!
If you think the chair is beautiful, just wait until you try the cocktail.
Continue reading Sit + Sip: Island Mint Limeade Cocktail
Father’s Day | Gift Guide
Father’s day is this Sunday and I’ve been racking my brain trying to find some fun and useful gifts for all types of dad’s.
Check out what I found!
Summertime Weekend | Must Haves
I love summertime and it’s officially here! In Dallas, it’s already super H.O.T so I was thinking about some of the things I can’t live without when it’s hotter than Hell out.
1.) If you’re into makeup and you haven’t tried this you are going to D.I.E. This Givenchy foundation primer is the best primer I have ever found! It leaves your face silky smooth and keeps you shine free all day. You must try this!
2.) The Straw Fedora is a great way to keep the sun off your head and look stylish at the same time.
3.) Any gold and turquoise combo necklace always looks great in the summer. Especially on tan skin!
4.) Classic Ray Ban Aviators…of course!
5.) I absolutely love this Sugar Lip Tint with SPF15 from Fresh! It comes in a couple of colors but the honey is my fave!
6.) Sunscreen is a must and if it’s already built into your makeup it’s always a plus. I love the light feeling of Laura Mercier tinted oil free moisturizer. Perfect if you have oily skin and even better with a foundation primer.
7.) When you don’t want to carry a heavy bag grab a colorful wristlet.
8.) Fresh white dresses always remind me of the summer. I have this Old Navy dress (so you know its not $$$) and its totally light and gauzy which means you can wear it on the hottest of days and not look like a slob!
What’s your favorite summertime must have?
Mexican Fiesta | the party
When entertaining, simple small bites are totally the best way to go! Who wants to use a fork or spoon to eat while holding a drink and socializing…uh no one. Worried about keeping a stocked bar? If you create a self serve signature drink, you won’t spend a ton of $$ on liquor or have to play bartender all night.
1.) These Mexican Paper Flowers are great as vibrant decorations. They can be used in a vase, as a banner or hanging from the ceiling or trees. You can make them yourself or just buy them. Not everyone has time to DIY! Floral image via: Real Simple
2.) You’ll have to try these easy to make Puff Pastry Avocado, Cream Cheese Salsa Bites.
3.) I loved playing this as a kid with beans as place holders to mark the cards. The Mexican Loteria game is basically Mexican bingo. It’s a cute take home gift for guests and a fun way to learn a couple of spanish words.
4.) For dessert Margarita Cupcakes!!! Need I say more…I mean seriously!
5.) Lets not forget the best part…Cocktails! Checkout the Cooking Light 7 best Margarita Recipes. Can’t wait to try the Jamaica (Hibiscus) Margarita shown above!
6.) I had to share this Crab Empanada recipe from Eva Longoria. It’s one of my favorites and super easy to make. They taste even better dipped in guacamole…delish!!
Loving all of these colorful finds to set the mood for your fiesta!
1.) Liven up a table with simple white dishes by adding some Colorful napkins with a fun pattern.
2.) Love these DIY mustache straws for the Pancho Villa in all of us!
3.) Piñata anyone? Great for all ages!
4.) Mix and match these cocktail glasses with existing glasses or use them as little vases to dress up your table top.
5.) Even though this inlaid bone tray isn’t really Mexican it reminds me of the embroidery on a Mexican dress. I love it to carry drinks or just to look at. So pretty!
6.) This bottle opener is just too precious not to have next to your Mexican beer or soda station.
7.) Use these Mexican sodas to add some color to your beverage station. Kids will enjoy them and so will adults…these sodas taste delicious with vodka and ice. Vodka for 21 and over only please!
Have fun!!!
Mexican Fiesta | In the kitchen
One of my favorite summertime go to dips is guacamole…for sure! But, have you ever had it with bacon? All I can say is nom nom and thanks again Rick Bayless for your delicious Bacon and Tomato Guacamole Recipe! It’s super easy and will surely make you the most popular at any gathering.
If you want to do it right, you’re going to need the proper tools. Here are some of my favorites that will get the job done in a stylish way.
1.) Cutting Board with Side Bowl, 2.) Measuring Cups, 3.) Measuring Spoons, 4.) Paring Knives, 5.) Serving Bowl, 6.) Silicone Spoon
Mexican Fiesta | The Cook Book
Okay so Cinco de Mayo is over but who doesn’t love a Mexican Fiesta at any time?! Considering I’m a total Mexican food snob I thought I would share one of my favorite cookbooks Fiesta at Rick’s: Fabulous Food for Great Times with Friends by amazing chef and Top Chef Masters Season 1 winner Rick Bayless. This cookbook totally inspired me to create a Mexican fiesta of my own. I’ll be sure to share my cha cha cha party finds and recipes so you can enjoy them too! Stay tuned…more to come!!!
Image: Mexican Papel Picado available at Ay Mujer Etsy Shop
PULP Hue | Raging Red
Colored appliances seem to be all the rage right now! I’m not saying all of your appliances should be a color but, it would be a nice surprise to add a pop of color with one or two pieces. Since one of my favorite colors is red, I thought I would share some of my favorite red picks that can add a little life to your kitchen. I already own that red Dualit toaster (its amazing) and have my eye on that red Bertazzoni oven for my new home. Can’t wait!
1.) Bertazzoni Oven, 2.) Kitchen Aid Mixer, 3.) Electrolux Washer & Dryer, 4.) Dualit Toaster, 5.) DeLonghi Espresso Maker
What’s your take on colored appliances…yay or nay?
