3 Head-Turning Hair Dos for the Holidays!

This fall and winter seasons you can weave your way into the hottest hair trend—braids. With simple tips from the Italian born Pirri brothers to create three head-turning dos, you can sport the latest trend, both low maintenance and easy to style for the everyday look.

Fun Fishtail Side Pony
Apply Pirri Elements Lava Glaze Smooth & Relaxing Serum (www.pirrihairgroup.com), and depending on time, blow or air dry your hair. Loosely tie an elastic hair tie an inch below your neck for a loose braid. You can leave a few strands of your hair out in front to get Fergie’s look. Separate your hair in two equal sections. Begin the braid by taking about an inch of hair from your outer right side and crossing it over to the middle section (towards the inside of the left side). Repeat with the left side. Continue braiding down, taking sections and repeating the mentioned steps— while pulling your hair towards the right side to create a side braid. Tie with your hair tie, once reaching the bottom. Gently remove the elastic hair tie you loosely tied at the top, and finito!

Twisted Glam Fishtail Braid

Swing your loose locks to one side of your shoulders, after styling. Section off about two to three inches of your hair from the middle. Secure with an elastic band, and fishtail braid down to the bottom. To do so, separate your hair in two equal sections. Begin the braid by taking about an inch of hair from your outer right side and crossing it over to the middle section (towards the inside of the left side). Repeat with the left side. Continue braiding down, taking sections and repeating the mentioned steps. Grab a glam hair brooch and secure it to your hair, on top of the elastic band. To finish off the look, take your curling iron and create loose waves around your fishtail braid for an ultra glam look.

Bohemian Chic

Apply Pirri Elements Nature’s Breeze Detangler & Leave-In Conditioner (www.pirrihairgroup.com) prior to blow drying your hair to manage fly-aways. Section your front right and left side locks into two half inch pieces. Section the right side into three pieces and braid all the way down. Loosely tie the braid with an elastic band. Repeat steps on left section. Remove hair tie on right side, and tie right and left braids behind your head with an elastic band. Section off another half an inch section at the end of the connected braids, and braid the bottom into a new weave. Continuing the braid down to give you a total of three connected braids—an additional twist to Lauren Conrad’s pictured look.

About the Pirri Brothers, Piero and Luigi


Born in Italy, the Pirri Brothers first developed hair styles for the elegant salons of the southern town of Calabria, then moving to London to continue their education for advanced technical skills. Being surrounded by Europe’s most prominent talent, in a city with sharp and constantly evolving style they possess the essence of Europe at their fingertips and have created and conceptualized trend setting styles that have graced fashion and beauty magazines worldwide.

Fast forward to 2009, the Pirri brothers now have two successful salons in Greenwich, Connecticut and Eastchester, New York; and have launched their own product line, Pirri Element (www. pirrihairgroup.com).

With over 20 years of experience, the Pirri brothers want to share their knowledge and technical skill with the hairdressers of today and tomorrow. The Pirri Education Academy was designed to work with the individual to elevate their skills for cut and color to the next level.

Content and photos provided by: www.kmrcommunications.com

*hugs*
Denice

Don't Get Fired by Your Flat Iron!

Information courtesy of Barbara Abbasi, founder of the Ferrum Professional Styler (www.ferrumiron.com) and owner of American Beauty Hair Salon in California www.abhairla.com.

A flat iron is the fastest and, if used incorrectly, the most damaging way to straighten hair. It allows women who have super curly corkscrew curls or those with just wavy hair to get the stick-straight style that they want. Barbara Abbasi, the founder of the Ferrum Professional Styler (www.ferrumiron.com) and owner of American Beauty Hair Salon in California offers some useful tips for clients before they run to their local drug store and begin straightening away.

The Heat Factor
Flat irons expose the hair to a significant amount of heat . Barbara cautions that, “If flat irons are not used properly, you can severely damage your hair. When you start straightening your hair, especially if you do it everyday, you should switch to a thermal protection shampoo, like Thermasilk. This will help protect your hair from excessive heat damage.”

What To Do Before You Use Any Flat Iron

•First of all, wash your hair properly. Flat irons are less effective on dirty and oily hair.
•Do not use any hair spray or gel on your hair after washing.
•Dry your hair completely, right from the roots to the tips.
•After you hair has been dried, apply a straightening balm to it. This will help eliminate any frizz and also protect your hair.
•Since an iron subjects your hair to high heat, it is advisable to use a heat protection spray beforehand.
•Heat your flat iron. In most cases, it will reach the desired temperature in a matter of minutes.
•Comb your hair properly and remove any tangles.
•Divide your hair into four sections, two in the front and two in the back, and hold them together with hair clips.
•Straighten sections of hair no more than 1 inch wide.
•Once your hair is completely dry, draw thin sections of you hair through the flat iron slowly all the while keeping the iron moving. Be sure to straighten slowly from the root of the hair to the tip. Never keep the flat iron a piece of hair for too long. This can cause severe damage to the hair.
•Comb hair smooth after each section of hair is straightened.
•Try not to flat iron your hair every day. If you do, before long your hair will start looking fried and your hair will start breaking off easily.
•Repeat the procedure with the other sections of your hair.

How to Use a Flat Iron
Many people end up damaging their hair because they do not know how to use their flat iron properly. Barbara Abbassi offers a few simple tips that will help you to use your flat iron correctly:

• Flat irons have been known to cause major drying and frizzing to the hair. Before you blow dry your hair and straighten it, make sure that you apply a frizz control product..
•Before you straighten your hair, make sure that your hair is completely dry. Even slight moisture can result in damaged hair and a damaged flat iron .
•Remember that flat irons are very hot and that they should be handled with care.
•Once your hair is completely dry, draw thin sections of you hair through the flat iron slowly all the while keeping the iron moving. Never keep the flat iron a piece of hair for too long.
•Comb hair smooth after each section of hair is straightened.

Here are some items Barbara suggests to achieve optimal results with your flat iron

•Straightening balm
•Heat protection spray
•Comb
•Hair clip

Barbara Abbasi developed the Ferrum Styler because she was not entirely happy with the results she saw with other flat irons on the market. What Makes Ferrum Different? The answer lies in the technology of the VSS System which is a combination of a non-heated padded fabric element and a tourmaline coated ceramic plate. The real distinction of this tool is the fabric padded side. The fabric is a combination of lightweight, anti-static polymers that allows the hair to "breathe" while straightening. In combination with the pad, the styling result most closely resembles blow-drying; which tends to give hair exponentially more volume than flat-ironing. Since the fabric padded side is non-heated, the Ferrum styler doesn't burn all the moisture out of the root of the hair giving it a much more vibrant, "bouncy" look.

A typical flatiron will fry and dry out your hair between two solid hot plates. The Ferrum styler will allow your hair to rest on glide on a soft surface, allowing hair to breathe and retain more of its natural moisture, shine and volume. Think of a flatiron as "frying" and drying out your hair between two solid hot plates. Allowing your hair to breathe and rest on a softer surface allows for a much healthier styling experience.  With the Ferrum Professional Style, women do not have to merely make the choice between frizzy and flat. Although Ferrum is not to be used to make wet hair dry, once hair is dry the tool can be used to achieve a pin straight look without losing volume. It can also curl the hair or give it gentle waves. For those who want or need to use a heated styling tool daily, the best news is that the Ferrum will not break the hair. You can read more about Barbara here.

Thanks to our friends over at KMR Communications for sharing this with us!

*hugs*
Denice

*NOTE: I have not tried/reviewed this product. This post is informational only

DIY Camera-Ready Makeup Tips ~ Bridal Makeup Artist Susmta Patel

Bridal Makeup Artist and Studio Sush Owner Susmta Patel Provides DIY Camera-Ready Makeup Tips

Flowers, check. Dress, check. Photographer, check.
Now all you need is the perfect look for the big day. Always remember that when planning to apply your own bridal makeup, what you see in the mirror may not necessarily be what you get on film. But have no worries, Professional Bridal Makeup Artist Susmta Patel has provided tips that every bride should consider before the big day to achieve a flawless camera-ready look.

Practice Makes Perfect
Take the time to practice putting on your makeup prior to the big day and have a camera handy.  Snap away after completing the look and study the photo critically. Don’t put it to rest after one try— if you are not a professional makeup artist, experiment until you get it right!

Moisturize
The camera tends to capture oily skin. Be sure to moisturize with an oil-free moisturizer.  Let it sink in for a minute and then start applying makeup. Also, do not experiment with a brand new/newly-tested, moisturizer on your skin to avoid any surprises.

Blend and Match
Wearing a beautiful strapless gown? Room lighting may be tricky. Look hard and close, and make sure your neck and chest match your face color. Pat some powder on your chest and neck to even out your tone. Before doing so, insert paper towels securely into your dress and let it cover your neckline to avoid a powdered messy dress! Be sure to blend the foundation around your neck and hairline to avoid apparent multi-colored skin in photos. Steer clear of shimmery bronzers and blush; they do not translate well on camera.

Paint Those Lips
Natural lip color or applying sheer gloss is a no-no for the big day. Color on your lips will bring life to those still photos. Lip gloss should be applied on top of color, not substituted for lipstick.  To make your lip color last, prior to applying lipstick, line and fill in your lips with lip liner.

Touch-Up
Bridesmaids are girl’s best friends and “foundation”, in more ways than one. So pass along a wedding day touch-up kit to your favorite girl. Be sure to include the essentials—lipstick, eyeliner and powder/foundation. Have her keep it throughout the night and remind you to refresh your makeup so your photos look good— from beginning to end!

ABOUT SUSMTA PATEL-www.studiosush.com


Susmta Patel is a multiple threat in the beauty industry as a licensed makeup artist, aesthetician, nail technician, hairstylist and waxing expert. Susmta was born in India and came to the US at the age of 20. This single mother wasted no time in diving head first into her passion for personal aesthetic services. As she says, “nothing makes me happier than the priceless smile of approval. This recognition motivates me to continue my pursuit of excellence.”

As the founder and creative director of “Studio Sush” she has been a personal consultant to more than 900 brides. Susmta has impeccable training having begun her career at the New Jersey Capri Institute in 1996 from which she earned her cosmetology license.  To further hone her skills, she attended the legendary Joe Blasco School of Makeup Artistry in Hollywood, CA and received her diploma in makeup artistry and special effects makeup.  Joe Blasco is credited with creating the most comprehensive series of encyclopedic textbooks for the professional make-up artistry. The series, entitled “The Professional Make-up Artist” featured Susmta in all three volumes.

Susmta has consulted for some of the beauty industries most prestigious brands such as Shiseido, Lancome, Versace, Christian Dior, Dr. Nicholas Perricone, Laura Mercier and Clinique. At the famed Completely Bare Salons in Manhattan and Scarsdale, Susmta was revered by clients for her prowess in full body waxing, permanent hair removal and eyebrow threading. Susmta was also the key makeup artist on the set of the Bollywood Film “Sama” and has judged Miss India worldwide beauty pageants.

Hope you found this helpful and interesting! Thanks to our friends over at KMR Communications for sharing!

*hugs*
Denice


Photo Credit:
Makeup: Google Images
Susmta: KMR
Susmta logo: www.studiosush.com

Summer is Here- Don't for get to Cover up...

Our friends over at KMR Communication are helping us out again with some great summer fun in the sun tips!

WARNING: IGNORED AREAS YOU MUST PROTECT BEFORE STEPPING OUT INTO THE SUN:

Filling your beach bag with your favorite summer skincare products puts you at ease for a day out, basking in the sun. BUT, are you really protecting your skin? The right products are only part of the process to insure proper protection from harmful summer rays. Are you covering all the bases? Sunburn does not only affect common areas—it “burns” its mark where you least expect it.

Dr.  Sandra Lee, a board certified dermatologist and member of the American Academy of Dermatology, the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery and the American Society for Mohs Surgery, put together a list of the
top six areas people tend to neglect when prepping for the sun:

6. Feet
Though perfectly manicured toes are important, sunburned feet can leave you “sole”-less. With painful sunburn on your tootsies, pairing your dress with those perfect summer heels may not be an option. Make sure to apply sunscreen to all areas of your feet to avoid any complications.

5. Back of Hands
Hydrating your hands with lotion, during your weekly manicures, is not all it takes to protect them from becoming dry. It is vital to protect your hands during the summertime, an area you may forget to tend to when stepping out into the sun.  Opt for a lotion that contains SPF 15 to 30 to protect and hydrate your hands.

4. Ears
Don’t forget to protect your ears, when applying sunscreen to your face. The skin on your ears is both sensitive and delicate, and the tops of your ears are particularly exposed to the sun’s rays. Throw on a wide-brimmed hat that is both fashionable and can help to protect your face and ears.

3. Chest/Neck
You don’t want “breases”, the vertical creases that can occur on your chest from sun damage and excess sun exposure.  The skin on your neck and chest is exposed to the same amount of sun as your face, and in order to prevent any damage, it needs just as much attention. The skin on your neck and chest is thin, so generously apply sunscreen in those two often-ignored areas. Sunburn in the chest/neck is not only painful, but unappealing when dressed in your favorite summer wardrobe.

2. Lips
Summer is not all about glossy lips. Before applying your favorite lip gloss, be sure to apply lipstick containing SPF 15 or above to protect the lips. Slip the lipstick in your bag and apply regularly throughout the day to avoid sun damage. 

1. Scalp
As the sun beams down over your head, it is an important to note the #1 overlooked area that requires protection from the sun—your scalp. Have you ever ended up leaving the beach and feeling like your head was on fire? Since you don’t want to pile on sunscreen over your hair and a hat may not be your favorite option, grab your favorite scarf and tie it around your head like a bandanna. Another option would be to use a sunscreen spray and spray it on your fingertips and use your fingers to apply this liquid to your part in your hair, the area of your scalp most susceptible to sunburn.

Hope these tips help you enjoy the sun and have fun!

*hugs*
Denice

Photo Credit: Me

Glowing Skin for Your Big Day - 4 Big No...No's!

Our friends over at KMR Communications have provided us with a great list on what to avoid when it comes to your skin care the week of your wedding, check it out!

All brides want flawless and glowing skin on their wedding day. But in an effort to look and feel especially beautiful, soon-to-be brides often splurge on beauty treatments that they haven't done before, says Mike Sendogan, Clinical Director of LaserTouch Aesthetics, a luxury medspa in SoHo and Midtown Manhattan. Any beauty treatment that you're trying for the first time should be done a minimum of two weeks before your wedding day to give any unexpected reactions or irritations time to fade.

According to LaserTouch Aesthetics, below are four wedding-week DON’TS:

1.Botox
Botox takes four to five days to kick in, and you wouldn't want to discover one day before the wedding that a brow has dropped or elevated unattractively.

2.Chemical Peels
This type of facial is designed to dissolve dead skin cells and reveal brighter skin. It also helps erase fine lines and lighten dark blotches for a more even-toned complexion. Do this at least two weeks before your wedding day because even a gentle chemical peel can cause drying that may be annoying to apply makeup over.

3.Fillers
Lip plumping is popular with brides, but filler in the lips can look swollen initially—which is not very photogenic. All fillers can also cause bruising that may last up to two weeks, so be sure to give yourself time to heal.

4.Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion, which uses a machine to buff skin, is also a commonly sought-after pre wedding beauty treatment. Mike suggests not going the week before your wedding day because side effects may include redness, sensitivity, and breakouts. Avoid that stress by consulting with a professional three months before your wedding day to come up with a personalized routine.

Click here for their blog, or visit them on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

So, take the advice ladies! Don't do ANYTHING drastic before your big day...Guys, this goes for you too!!

*hugs*
Denice

Photo and Content Credit:
KMR Communications
http://www.lasertouchsoho.com/

Choosing the Right Florist: Floral Artist & Master Designer- Kenji Takenaka

The venue is booked, now it’s time to decide on one of the most important elements of décor—the flowers. There are almost always certain factors a couple tends to overlook when it comes to choosing the right type of floral arrangements for the wedding.

For instance,—whether high or low, small or large—couples sometimes fail to visualize the whole reception room when making decisions. Sitting at a table with a tall floral arrangement obstructing the view of the New York City skyline or clear turquoise ocean, is just one of the many mistakes a couple may make when deciding floral table décor.

Kenji Takenaka, floral artist and master designer of Noir Hanna International, a premiere, world class floral design company in New York, is available to provide tips on what couples should know before meeting with florists:

Timeline
Book the florist at least 6 months prior to the wedding date. Couples want be certain to book their florist of choice, especially if the selected date is a popular one. Waiting too long may result in losing the first option.

Choosing the right size
There are many factors to take into consideration when determining the right-sized floral table arrangement for the wedding. Couples should consider the look of the venue, spacing, table setup and linens, to name a few. “Bigger is better” may not apply for a particular venue. Although flowers are a great focal piece for any wedding, floral centerpieces should fit the overall look.

Season-friendly=Budget-friendly
Ask the florist what flowers are in season around the wedding date to conserve costs. Requesting certain flowers off-season can take the budget to a higher than anticipated number. Flowers that are in-season will cut costs significantly, without having to compromise the overall look of the centerpiece and end product, keeping the couple happy.

Listen to the expert
Take a step back and leave it to the expert. Trusting the florist is imperative to achieving the best look for the wedding. Micromanaging can limit the vision of the florist. The florist has been hired based on the couple’s taste, now it’s time to give the initial vision and leave it in the florists’ hands.

Reuse flower arrangements
When deciding on ceremony floral arrangements, why not consider arrangements you can reuse for the reception? Don’t let the stunning ceremony arrangements go to waste. Arrange for your ceremony flowers to be moved to the bar for décor.

Meet Kenji Takenaka
Under the artistic direction of Kenji, Noir Hanna has a flourishing clientele of high-profile institutions, celebrities and the fashion industry. Noir Hanna remains on the cutting edge of floral design with Kenji’s relentless quest for fresh new ideas that are always executed to his highest standards of quality. Kenji takes an architectural approach to flowers: modern and minimal. He is one of the pioneers of the fuss-free floral look. Known for his minimalist style, Kenji often makes arrangements with masses of a single type of flower and color.

Kenji’s green thumb stems from a long family history in Japan. A fourth generation florist, Kenji has lived with flowers all his life. For more than 100 years, the Takenaka Teienryokka Company has been committed to keeping the value that has established itself as a legend in the floral industry. With more than 20 branches and dozens of floral boutiques throughout the major cities of Japan, the Takenaka Teienryokka Company is the country’s leading floral provider. While this family-run business embraces both their past while always striving for the future, such aspirations do not come without leadership.

In 2009, the Takenaka Teienryokka Company was ushered into the American market with the opening of Noir Hanna International in New York City. With his high level of creativity and technique; Kenji is poised to introduce his family’s philosophy and Japanese style to the American public. The Noir Hanna International brand is now paving a new road in the American floral market – and starting some new traditions of its own along the way.

Hope this helps in your next floral appointment!  I hope to be interviewing lots of different floral designers to get lots of great perspective, so check back!

*hugs*
Denice

Photo and Content Credit: KMR Communications

Winkee Winner!

Congratulations to COLLEEN!!

Colleen was randomly selected by Random.or and has won herself a Winkee. 

Colleen's need for the Winkee:
What a great invention. I avoid buying a lot of cute tops because they are just too low cut and in the summer it's too hot to add an extra layer. I'd love to win.

Thank you to everyone who entered. Check back for more giveaways!

*hugs*
Denice

What's a Winkee You Say? Read on & WIN one!

Our friends at over at KMR Communications is at it again by introducing us to some fabulous finds! They are introducing us today to the Winkee. What's a Winkee you say? Well read on...

It’s official: We no longer have to resort to bulky tank tops or duct tape to cover up the dreaded “too-much cleavage” syndrome. The ultimate solution for wardrobe malfunctions is finally here! The Winkee is a stylish, lightweight bra accessory that can help cover cleavage without added bulk.

Let’s face it, wardrobe mishaps are not only confined to the red carpet or the Super Bowl. From slip up’s and slip out’s, sometimes clothes develop a mind of their own. For many women, it seems the dreaded bra flash happens at the most inopportune moments. No matter the size of your bosom, a low-cut shirt can become a source of discomfort in certain settings. Whether you’re in the office or at a family function, every woman has asked herself “Is this top too revealing?”

The Winkee, created by entrepreneurs Patricia Calamari and Karla Kennedy is an answer to this fashion dilemma. Combining the concept of a tank top layer with the added benefit of being removable, The Winkee allows women to cover cleavage when they need to, and switch from “day to night” seamlessly without having to change outfits completely.

According to Patricia, “The Winkee is a patent-pending design that solves every woman’s occasional need to have a multi-purpose outfit. From the jetsetter who simply wants to pack lighter, to today’s multi-tasking woman who wants to go from the boardroom to out on the town with friends, The Winkee has you covered – literally!”

The Winkee Cleavage Cover provides the ideal coverage for any plunging neckline in just three simple steps:

1. Stick Winkee Dots on the inside of each of the three Winkee tabs
2. Wrap top side tabs around straps of bra
3. Wrap bottom tab under the middle of front of bra

Winkee, the ultimate solution to plunging necklines, is a revolutionary mock cami that easily covers cleavage. Winkee is a bra accessory that solves the problem of plunging necklines. It is easily attached to your bra in three easy steps, making it an affordable way to maximize your outfits without compromising their design. Your "bosom's buddy", takes a gal from the boardroom to bodacious in seconds. Priced from $17-$20

A Little History on heART & Soul Studios:

Patricia Calamari has been creating art for as long as she can remember. She has been an image maker and mentor for children for 20 years. She attended the School of Visual Arts, NYC and later finished her Bachelor of Fine Art at Lynn University. In 1994, Ms. Calamari went to work for a center for individuals with profound disabilities. It was there she was inspired by a very special population to create this unique shared painting process. The outcomes have been nationally award winning. Because of an overwhelming desire to display the creative spirit of individuals with disabilities, Patricia founded heart & Soul Studios, INC. in 1999.

So here is the best part...You can WIN a Winkee!!  Just leave a comment on this post as to why you, or someone you know needs this product, and we will select a winner on Wednesday, AUGUST 25! It's that easy =)

Click here to view some videos on the Winkee!

GOOD LUCK!!
*hugs*
Denice

Photo Credit: http://www.thewinkee.com/

5 Tips to Throw a Swanky Summer Bash on a Budget ~ From Andrea Correale

Our friends over at KMR Communications are at it again providing us with some exciting and unique client access! They recently sent me the below post from Celebrity Event Planner and Caterer Andrea Correale, of Elegant Affairs Caterer. It goes along with my recent post: 6 Great Ideas for a Summer Party, so I thought I would share with you to help elaborate on some Summer Party Ideas!

Celebrity Event Planner and Caterer Andrea Correale says you can party like a Rock Star without a Rock Star budget. Having satisfied the palettes of celebrities including Brooke Shields, Gwyneth Paltrow and Kim Cattrall, Andrea knows a few things about throwing a fabulous bash without breaking the bank.

With your favorite swimsuit in tow, you can turn a typical pool party from drab to fab! Below, Andrea provides a few tips and tricks to throw a fabulous, low cost, pool party bash in style.

5 Tips to Throw a Swanky Summer Bash on a Budget

~ Tip #1 – Save Money on Food with a “Daytime” Party

According to Andrea, having a party during the daytime versus at night will save major bucks. “When it comes to the food, people’s expectations are usually much higher at nighttime events,” says Andrea. Typically “PM” parties require more appetizers followed by dinner and dessert. “You can get away with less expensive food and less of a spread at a day time poolside gathering,” Andrea continues.

~ Tip #2 – Lights, Candles, Action! Save on an Inexpensive Décor

Create a show-stopping and festive backyard presentation with simple and inexpensive decorations and accessories. “Lawn chairs and table clothes are great, but don’t shy away from stored away Christmas lights, colorful tea candles and paper hanging lanterns (beau-coup.com),” says Andrea. It’s the small things that add grandeur and charm to any party! These stylish decorations will cost under $30 and you’ll have them ready for the next bash!

~ Tip #3 – Arrange Your Own Tunes

Who says you have to hire a professional DJ to keep the party going? Instead of shelling out hundreds of dollars, create a play list of your favorite summer time tunes on your iPod and connect it to speakers. Voila! A DJ that is sure to play the tunes you and your friends want to hear for the cost-efficient price of…zero!

~ Tip #4 – Bottoms Up! Establish a Signature Drink

Every party should have a signature drink, but that doesn’t mean it has to be an expensive one. Impress your guests with large bell glasses filled with red wine Sangria. For an extra flair, insert the Sangria recipe into a colorful picture frame next to the Sangria. Don’t stop there! Make Sangria ice-cubes by placing one, canned mandarin orange slice in each compartment of two ice cube trays. Fill each with red wine and freeze. Serve with Sangria. Supplement the Sangria with bottles of sodas and beers.

~ Tip #5 – Skip Filet Mignon and Grill Skirt Steak Instead

Don’t break the bank on Filet Mignon and Porterhouse steaks at your backyard bash. Skirt steak is a fabulous choice and costs at fraction of the price of the higher end favorites. Skirt steak is a thin cut of meat, making it great to marinate and cook on the grill, as it soaks up the seasoning very well and cooks quickly. It's one of the most flavorful steak cuts, but also one of the tougher ones too, which is another reason why it's so great to marinate. Decadent marinades make skirt steaks exceptionally delicious when grilled. (check out her blog for some great marinade recipies!)

A little information on Andrea Correale:

Andrea Correale created Elegant Affairs, a full-service, off-premise catering and event design firm which is considered one of the best on Long Island, Manhattan and in the Hamptons. Since its inception more than 15 years ago, Elegant Affairs has served over 1400 events a year with razor sharp attention to detail.

Elegant Affairs has satisfied some of the world's most discriminating palates such as L.A. Reid, Mariah Carey, Nick Cannon, Brooke Shields, Russell Simmons, the Trumps, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kevin Spacey, the Stillers, Bebe Neuwirth, Kelly Ripa, and Kim Cattrall, to name a few. Elegant Affairs has been featured on VH1's The Fabulous Life of the Hamptons, The Real Housewives of New York City, and MTV's True Life. Besides being a celebrity caterer, Andrea has worked with budgets big and small to plan fetes ranging from million dollar weddings to an intimate dinner party for ten.

For more information: elegantaffairscaterers.com
Blog: http://andreacorreale.blogspot.com/

*hugs*
Denice

Photo Credit: http://www.elegantaffairscaterers.com/

What Summer Drinks Are Doing to Your Teeth!

Your health is important, and beautiful, healthy teeth are even more important come your big day!  Our friends over at KMR Communications sent us this very informative post on  "What summer drinks are doing to your teeth" from New York City Cosmetic Dentist, Dr. Michael Entin.

The warm weather of summer leads to plenty of barbecues, outdoor brunches and rooftop parties. With so many social engagements to juggle, one of the last things people might think about is their teeth. The truth is increased consumption of alcohol, soft drinks and coffees can often lead to staining, cavities, plaque buildup and bad breath – something no one wants to deal with while enjoying summer days and nights!


According to Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Michael Entin, “many of my patients come to me at the end of a long summer with more than one problem that could be caused by the different types of beverages they are indulging in.” Dr. Entin lists his “top offenders” below and different ways to keep your teeth bright, healthy and white this summer:

Alcohol

~ Alcohol consumption can cause digestive problems which leads to bad breath. In addition, alcohol dries out the mouth, which reduces saliva production.
~ Water will help thwart the dehydration effect of alcohol. Order one glass of water for every drink and you’ll stay sober and sweet!
~ Mojitos contain lots of fresh mint, so order one and ask for an extra mint garnish to chew on after you finish your drink.

Sugar

~ Every year, Americans drink almost 50 billion gallons of soda. Sugars and acids in sodas can dissolve away the healthy enamel in teeth, leading to decay and tooth loss
~ Teenagers are get almost 40% of their sugar from soft drinks
~ Frozen beverages like margaritas and pina coladas are loaded with sugar. Dr. Entin suggests drinking these types of beverages in moderation or asking for your margarita “on the rocks” with simple tequila, lime juice and other low-sugar mixers

Stains

~ Certain drinks like coffee, tea, red wine and soda all can stain or discolor the teeth
~ Dr. Entin notes behavior modification like drinking through a straw, limiting your coffee or tea consumption and avoiding red wine are often the best options
~ Brush using whitening toothpaste to remove daily stains and help them from building up over time. If you have existing stains, you might consider whitening treatments either with your dentist or over the counter

About Dr. Michael Entin, DDS

Dr. Michael Entin, DDS is a graduate of The New York University College of Dentistry, class of 2000. As of 2001 he has been in private practice in New York City. Dr. Entin is a Lumineer Certified Dentist and specializes in cosmetic dentistry. He attained his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Chemistry from Brooklyn College. Dr. Entin opened his first practice in Brooklyn in 2001, and opened a second practice in Manhattan in 2008. For more information, please visit www.lumineersNY.com



Happy Summer everyone!

*hugs*
Denice

Photo Credits:
Cocktails: stock.xchng
Dr. Entin: KMR Communications
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