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	<title>tips &#8211; DelectablyChic!</title>
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		<title>Wedding Series Part III: The Wedding Day</title>
		<link>https://www.delectablychic.com/delectablychic-bridal-series-part-iii-the-wedding-day/</link>
					<comments>https://www.delectablychic.com/delectablychic-bridal-series-part-iii-the-wedding-day/#comments</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[T. U. Dawood]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 Jul 2012 12:00:25 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Etiquette]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wedding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Aquiesse]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Aquiesse Luxe Linen 15 Hr Set/2 Votive Candles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bonne Mere Gentle Cream]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[candles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DelectablyChic! Bridal Series]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fashion]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fashion aid]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[l'occitane]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ladiesfund]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LUSH]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LUSH Cosmetics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[nails]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[opi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pink Peony Large Soy Candle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Style]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[T. U. Dawood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[toothy tabs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ultrablast]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wedding day]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[weddings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.delectablychic.com/?p=11242</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[DelectablyChic! is excited to present its 3rd Annual Summer Bridal feature, this time a four part series on Wedding Prep, Make Up &#38; Beauty Must-Haves for the 2012 Summer Bride, The Wedding Day, as well as Wedding Related Ideas.  Last week, we discussed Make Up &#38; Beauty Must-Haves for the 2012 Summer Bride and today [&#8230;]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>DelectablyChic! is excited to present its 3<sup>rd</sup> Annual Summer Bridal feature, this time a four part series on Wedding Prep, Make Up &amp; Beauty Must-Haves for the 2012 Summer Bride, The Wedding Day, as well as Wedding Related Ideas.  Last week, we discussed Make Up &amp; Beauty Must-Haves for the 2012 Summer Bride and today we move on to The Wedding Day.</em></p>
<p><strong></strong>It’s the tiny details that often really make a wedding day more special.  Caught up in ensuring all the big elements are in place, it’s easy to forget to pamper yourself and your guests in little ways.</p>
<p><strong>For the Bridal Waiting Room:</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Pink-Peony-Large-Soy-Candle-by-Aquiesse.jpg"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" data-attachment-id="11418" data-permalink="https://www.delectablychic.com/delectablychic-bridal-series-part-iii-the-wedding-day/pink-peony-large-soy-candle-by-aquiesse/" data-orig-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Pink-Peony-Large-Soy-Candle-by-Aquiesse.jpg?fit=300%2C199&amp;ssl=1" data-orig-size="300,199" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;}" data-image-title="Pink Peony Large Soy Candle by Aquiesse" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Pink-Peony-Large-Soy-Candle-by-Aquiesse.jpg?fit=300%2C199&amp;ssl=1" data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Pink-Peony-Large-Soy-Candle-by-Aquiesse.jpg?fit=300%2C199&amp;ssl=1" tabindex="0" role="button" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11418" title="Pink Peony Large Soy Candle by Aquiesse" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Pink-Peony-Large-Soy-Candle-by-Aquiesse.jpg?resize=300%2C199" alt="" width="300" height="199" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Pink-Peony-Large-Soy-Candle-by-Aquiesse.jpg?w=300&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Pink-Peony-Large-Soy-Candle-by-Aquiesse.jpg?resize=150%2C99&amp;ssl=1 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" data-recalc-dims="1" /></a></p>
<p>Especially with last minute hiccups and delays, but even if the wedding is on time, waiting in the bridal room can seem never-ending.  Decorate or accentuate your waiting room with small luxury items like <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Pink-Peony-Large-Candle-Aquiesse/dp/B002FSF0FU" rel="nofollow">Pink Peony Large Soy Candle by Aquiesse </a>which is a delicate blend of pink peony, cherry blossom and green ivy that transforms (at least fragrance-wise) what is often a plain white room into an exotic paradise.</p>
<p><strong>For the Bridal Pouch:</strong></p>
<p>The summer is really heating up and if your wedding ends up being held on a particularly humid day, keep lots of water for yourself and your guests.  In fact, you can have ice chilled water bottles greeting guests as they enter your venue, followed by your signature cocktail.  Don’t forget to also keep a pocket size lotion handy so your skin stays supple. We recommend <a href="http://www.loccitane.ca/">L’Occitane</a> Bonne Mere Gentle Cream which is a non-oily formula that can be smoothed over hands, body and face.</p>
<p><strong>For Bridal Emergencies: </strong></p>
<p>Worried about bra straps showing or too much cleavage?  We at DelectablyChic! are in love with <a title="Fashion Aid" href="http://www.fashion-aid.com/" target="_blank">FASHION-AID®</a>, which is a roll on adhesive that eliminates wardrobe embarrassments by instantly securing your clothing and lingerie to your body. By rolling on this translucent,  hypoallergenic, water washable fashion adhesive to your skin, you immediately secure slipping bra straps, strapless, off the shoulder, low neckline, revealing styles of clothing, including wedding gowns.</p>
<p><strong>For the Bridesmaids:</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/OPI-Outrageous-Neons.jpg"><img decoding="async" data-attachment-id="11416" data-permalink="https://www.delectablychic.com/delectablychic-bridal-series-part-iii-the-wedding-day/opi-outrageous-neons/" data-orig-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/OPI-Outrageous-Neons.jpg?fit=640%2C296&amp;ssl=1" data-orig-size="640,296" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;}" data-image-title="OPI Outrageous Neons" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/OPI-Outrageous-Neons.jpg?fit=300%2C138&amp;ssl=1" data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/OPI-Outrageous-Neons.jpg?fit=640%2C296&amp;ssl=1" tabindex="0" role="button" class="aligncenter  wp-image-11416" title="OPI Outrageous Neons" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/OPI-Outrageous-Neons.jpg?resize=448%2C207" alt="" width="448" height="207" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/OPI-Outrageous-Neons.jpg?w=640&amp;ssl=1 640w, https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/OPI-Outrageous-Neons.jpg?resize=150%2C69&amp;ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/OPI-Outrageous-Neons.jpg?resize=300%2C138&amp;ssl=1 300w" sizes="(max-width: 448px) 100vw, 448px" data-recalc-dims="1" /></a></p>
<p>The height of trend in nails these days is neon.  <a href="http://www.opi.com/">OPI</a> has great shades including <em>Ridiculously Yellow, Formidably Orange, Riotously Pink </em>and<em> Seriously Purple,</em> all of which come in a mini pack called <em>Outrageous Neons</em>.  This pack can also be separated and distributed among bridesmaids, with each bridesmaid wearing a different neon bridesmaid dress with matching nails.  <strong></strong></p>
<p><strong>For the Wedding Swag:</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/AQUIESSE-Luxe-Linen-15-Hr-Set-2-Votive-Candles.jpg"><img decoding="async" data-attachment-id="11415" data-permalink="https://www.delectablychic.com/delectablychic-bridal-series-part-iii-the-wedding-day/aquiesse-luxe-linen-15-hr-set-2-votive-candles/" data-orig-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/AQUIESSE-Luxe-Linen-15-Hr-Set-2-Votive-Candles.jpg?fit=300%2C300&amp;ssl=1" data-orig-size="300,300" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;}" data-image-title="AQUIESSE Luxe Linen 15 Hr Set &#8211; 2 Votive Candles" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/AQUIESSE-Luxe-Linen-15-Hr-Set-2-Votive-Candles.jpg?fit=300%2C300&amp;ssl=1" data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/AQUIESSE-Luxe-Linen-15-Hr-Set-2-Votive-Candles.jpg?fit=300%2C300&amp;ssl=1" tabindex="0" role="button" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11415" title="AQUIESSE Luxe Linen 15 Hr Set - 2 Votive Candles" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/AQUIESSE-Luxe-Linen-15-Hr-Set-2-Votive-Candles.jpg?resize=300%2C300" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/AQUIESSE-Luxe-Linen-15-Hr-Set-2-Votive-Candles.jpg?w=300&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/AQUIESSE-Luxe-Linen-15-Hr-Set-2-Votive-Candles.jpg?resize=150%2C150&amp;ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/AQUIESSE-Luxe-Linen-15-Hr-Set-2-Votive-Candles.jpg?resize=80%2C80&amp;ssl=1 80w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" data-recalc-dims="1" /></a></p>
<p>We simply fell in love with <a href="http://www.amazon.com/AQUIESSE-Luxe-Linen-Votive-Candles/dp/B0045LO4XE" rel="nofollow">Aquiesse Luxe Linen 15 Hr Set/2 Votive Candles</a>.  This item is so luxurious, even the texture of the box feels like a dollop of pampering.  The colour is a very elegant ivory so it is something that can actually add class to a Bachelor pad as much as to a lady’s boudoir.</p>
<p><strong>For the Honeymoon:</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/LUSH-Ultrablast-Toothy-Tabs.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" data-attachment-id="11419" data-permalink="https://www.delectablychic.com/delectablychic-bridal-series-part-iii-the-wedding-day/lush-ultrablast-toothy-tabs/" data-orig-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/LUSH-Ultrablast-Toothy-Tabs.jpg?fit=350%2C350&amp;ssl=1" data-orig-size="350,350" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;}" data-image-title="LUSH Ultrablast Toothy Tabs" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/LUSH-Ultrablast-Toothy-Tabs.jpg?fit=300%2C300&amp;ssl=1" data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/LUSH-Ultrablast-Toothy-Tabs.jpg?fit=350%2C350&amp;ssl=1" tabindex="0" role="button" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11419" title="LUSH Ultrablast Toothy Tabs" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/LUSH-Ultrablast-Toothy-Tabs.jpg?resize=350%2C350" alt="" width="350" height="350" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/LUSH-Ultrablast-Toothy-Tabs.jpg?w=350&amp;ssl=1 350w, https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/LUSH-Ultrablast-Toothy-Tabs.jpg?resize=150%2C150&amp;ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/LUSH-Ultrablast-Toothy-Tabs.jpg?resize=300%2C300&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/LUSH-Ultrablast-Toothy-Tabs.jpg?resize=80%2C80&amp;ssl=1 80w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" data-recalc-dims="1" /></a>With all the airline rules about liquids and creams, we can’t help but love <a href="http://www.lush.ca/Ultrablast/03420,en_CA,pd.html"><strong>LUSH Cosmetics’ Toothy Tabs</strong></a>.  These solid toothpaste tabs pack beautifully in recyclable paper boxes that fit perfectly in a travel case for long flights or even in your bridal pouch if like many brides, you forget to eat during the ceremony.  Our favourite flavor Ultrablast will give you fresh breath extraordinaire due to the wasabi antibacterial action.  It’s a combo of peppermint, spearmint and <a href="http://www.lush.ca/Ultrablast/03420,en_CA,pd.html" target="_blank"><strong>lavender oils</strong></a>.  These tabs are supposed to be used with a toothbrush but as they are made of baking soda, they easily break down in your mouth and you can clearly gargle with them and spit them out in an emergency.<strong></strong></p>
<div>
<h3></h3>
<p><em>Finale next week … Wedding Related Ideas</em></p>
</div>
]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">11242</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Cooking Ideas: Using Alcohol</title>
		<link>https://www.delectablychic.com/cookingwithbooze/</link>
					<comments>https://www.delectablychic.com/cookingwithbooze/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Lizz Hill]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 29 Jun 2011 06:00:42 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Dining]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Recipes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[alcohol]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[booze]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[braising]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cooking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cooking ideas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[desserts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[duck]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fish]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[flavouring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[flavours]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[poaching]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recipes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sauces]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[soup]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[soups]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wine]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.delectablychic.com/?p=4359</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[I was recently asked by someone, what can I do with all my spare alcohol? I know this person must not read my recipes often, since alcohol is a staple in much of my cooking. My advice to her was, either throw a big party and make cocktails for everyone, or use my recipes to [&#8230;]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I was recently asked by someone, what can I do with all my spare alcohol? I know this person must not read my recipes often, since alcohol is a staple in much of my cooking. My advice to her was, either throw a big party and make cocktails for everyone, or use my recipes to create amazingly flavourful meals!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/wine2.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" data-attachment-id="4745" data-permalink="https://www.delectablychic.com/cookingwithbooze/wine2/" data-orig-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/wine2.jpg?fit=461%2C620&amp;ssl=1" data-orig-size="461,620" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;}" data-image-title="wine2" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/wine2.jpg?fit=223%2C300&amp;ssl=1" data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/wine2.jpg?fit=461%2C620&amp;ssl=1" tabindex="0" role="button" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4745" title="wine2" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/wine2.jpg?resize=461%2C620" alt="" width="461" height="620" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/wine2.jpg?w=461&amp;ssl=1 461w, https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/wine2.jpg?resize=111%2C150&amp;ssl=1 111w, https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/wine2.jpg?resize=223%2C300&amp;ssl=1 223w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 461px) 100vw, 461px" data-recalc-dims="1" /></a><strong><em>Use wine to flavour dishes, poach fish or as a base for sauces and soups</em></strong></p>
<p>Wine is definitely the most commonly used ingredient in my kitchen; it is a great base for soups and sauces, and is the best liquid to use when poaching fish. Beer is another great ingredient- it can add a new flavour element to soups and sauces, and can also be used when braising meats such as beef. In fact, the carbonation in the beer creates a chemical reaction that makes the beef soft, tender, and fall-off-the-bone good!</p>
<p>Liqueurs are a whole new story; each liqueur brings its own unique flavour into any recipe. As with wine and beer, liqueurs can be used as the base for a good sauce. Because of liqueurs’ bold and sweet flavours, they work very well in desserts also.</p>
<p>Today I will show you how to use wine, beer, and liqueurs to make both sweet and savoury dishes. My first recipe is poached pears, cooked in a sweet Gewürztraminer. These pears are delicious on their own, and are the perfect partner for ice cream, tarts and cakes. For more ideas how to use these pears, please refer to my article, Cooking With Tea.</p>
<p>I have included a second dessert recipe, Bananas Foster. Bananas Foster is a classic dessert, and is a great vehicle for rum and liqueur. Although the recipe may seem a bit intimidating to beginners, keep an adventurous and open mind and it will work out.</p>
<p>The two savoury dishes I am providing today are beer and cheddar soup, and wine-braised duck. The soup is a creamy, hearty classic and is a fantastic comfort food. I have elected to use Guiness for this particular recipe (the dark stouts work really well with a nice, sharp cheddar!), but feel free to use whatever type of beer you prefer. Different beers produce different flavours, whether they are stouts or lagers, so be experimental about the type of beer you are using, and you will create a new soup every time!</p>
<p>The duck is soft and tender, as a result of being cooked in wine. After the duck has been fully cooked, reduce the liquid further to create a flavourful wine sauce to accompany the meal. This way, the wine will not be wasted!</p>
<p>I hope you enjoy my alcohol-based recipes. Keep an open mind and experiment, to see what great flavours and creations you can make! Happy cooking everybody!</p>
<p>Eat well, live well, be well!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Wine Poached Pears</strong></p>
<p>You will need:</p>
<ul>
<li>8 cups Gewürztraminer, or another white wine</li>
<li>1 cup sugar</li>
<li>6 pears, peeled and cut into halves</li>
</ul>
<p>Method:</p>
<ol>
<li>In a large sauce pan over medium high heat, bring the      wine and sugar to almost a boil. Reduce heat immediately to medium low.      Begin adding in the pear halves, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. You      can always cook the pears in batches, if there is not enough room the      first time.</li>
<li>Allow pears to cook for about 15 minutes, until soft when      poked with a fork. Remove pears from poaching liquid and place the next batch      of pears into the poaching liquid. Continue the process until all the pears      are done.</li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Beer and Cheddar Soup</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/GUinness.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" data-attachment-id="4748" data-permalink="https://www.delectablychic.com/cookingwithbooze/guinness/" data-orig-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/GUinness.jpg?fit=570%2C842&amp;ssl=1" data-orig-size="570,842" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;}" data-image-title="GUinness" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/GUinness.jpg?fit=203%2C300&amp;ssl=1" data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/GUinness.jpg?fit=570%2C842&amp;ssl=1" tabindex="0" role="button" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4748" title="GUinness" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/GUinness.jpg?resize=513%2C758" alt="" width="513" height="758" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/GUinness.jpg?w=570&amp;ssl=1 570w, https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/GUinness.jpg?resize=101%2C150&amp;ssl=1 101w, https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/GUinness.jpg?resize=203%2C300&amp;ssl=1 203w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 513px) 100vw, 513px" data-recalc-dims="1" /></a><br />
</strong></p>
<p>You will need:</p>
<ul>
<li>4 oz butter</li>
<li>½ onion, diced finely</li>
<li>1 clove garlic, minced</li>
<li>4 oz flour</li>
<li>1 L chicken stock, warmed</li>
<li>½ L 35% cream</li>
<li>¼ lb old cheddar cheese, grated</li>
<li>4 fl oz Guinness beer</li>
</ul>
<p>Method:</p>
<ol>
<li>Melt the butter in a large pot over medium high heat.      Add the garlic and onions, and sautée until they are translucent.</li>
<li>Add the flour all at once, whisking constantly (this is      called a roux). Allow to cook for about a minute.</li>
<li>Add the Guinness, and continue to stir, making sure      that everything is incorporated and there are no lumps. It takes only another      minute or two for the alcohol to cook off.</li>
<li>Add the chicken stock, and stir well. Bring to a boil,      then reduce back to a simmer as soon as it has started boiling.</li>
<li>If you wish, puree the soup in a food processor (you      can skip this step if you like, but it ensures there are no big bits of onion-      either way, the soup works out fine!)</li>
<li>Add the cream and the cheese, and stir to incorporate.</li>
<li>Serve immediately.</li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Red wine braised duck</strong></p>
<p>You will need:</p>
<ul>
<li>1- 4lb duck, quartered</li>
<li>2 tbsp salt</li>
<li>1 tbsp black pepper</li>
<li>4 bay leaves</li>
<li>6 sprigs fresh thyme</li>
<li>6 garlic cloves, crushed</li>
<li>4 cups good quality red wine</li>
<li>1 cup chicken stock</li>
</ul>
<p>Method:</p>
<ol>
<li>Preheat oven to 325F.</li>
<li>Rub the duck with salt and pepper. Place skin side down      into a large skillet, over high heat. Sear the duck for about 5 minutes,      and remove from heat.</li>
<li>Place the seared duck into a roasting pan that is just      big enough to hold the four duck pieces comfortably. Add the garlic, herbs,      red wine and chicken stock. The duck should be completely covered by the liquid.</li>
<li>Place the pan into the 325F oven for 40 minutes.</li>
<li>Remove the duck from the liquid and allow it to rest.      Strain the mixture into a large sauce pan over high heat, and allow to reduce      by half while whisking continuously. Taste, and season with salt and pepper      as needed.</li>
<li>Place two pieces of duck on each plate, and drizzle      with the reduced red wine sauce. Serve with your favourite vegetables and      starches for an elegant dinner!</li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Bananas Foster</strong></p>
<p>You will need:</p>
<ul>
<li>2 oz unsalted butter</li>
<li>2 cups brown sugar</li>
<li>½ tsp cinnamon</li>
<li>2 fl oz banana liqueur</li>
<li>4 bananas, cut into quarters</li>
<li>2 fl oz white rum</li>
<li>4 scoops vanilla ice cream</li>
</ul>
<p>Method:</p>
<ol>
<li>Combine the butter, sugar, and cinnamon in a large,      heavy bottomed pan over low heat. Stir the mixture until the sugar is completely      dissolved into the melted butter.</li>
<li>Stir in the banana liqueur, then place the bananas in      the pan. When the bananas soften and begin to brown, carefully add the      rum.</li>
<li>Continue cooking the bananas until the rum is hot, then      ignite the rum with a propane torch. If you have a gas stove, you can also      ignite the rum by carefully tipping the pan onto the flame (this is how the      pros do it!).</li>
<li>Allow the flames to subside. Lift the bananas out of      the pan and place 4 pieces over each portion of ice cream. Spoon the warm      sauce over the ice cream and serve immediately.</li>
</ol>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Guinness picture: © craftvision/iStockphoto</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Wine photo from Morguefile<br />
</strong></p>
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4359</post-id>	</item>
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		<title>Paris Hilton: Should Use Name to Influence People</title>
		<link>https://www.delectablychic.com/paris-hilton-should-use-name-to-influence-people/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Cynthia Cheng Mintz]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 Jun 2011 06:00:15 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Arts, Entertainment & Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[advice]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[celebutante]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[celebutantes]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[event planning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hilton Family]]></category>
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					<description><![CDATA[First off, I don&#8217;t usually write about celebrities, especially so-called &#8220;celebutantes.&#8221;  It&#8217;s just not my thing.  Most don&#8217;t seem to give off such a &#8220;sophisticated&#8221; vibe to me.   Thus, I was debating whether to post this in the &#8220;entertainment&#8221; or &#8220;style&#8221; section. Since people seem to watch Paris Hilton for entertainment purposes rather than [&#8230;]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>First off, I don&#8217;t usually write about celebrities, especially so-called  &#8220;celebutantes.&#8221;  It&#8217;s just not my thing.  Most don&#8217;t seem to give off  such a &#8220;sophisticated&#8221; vibe to me.   Thus, I was debating whether to  post this in the &#8220;entertainment&#8221; or &#8220;style&#8221; section. Since people seem  to watch <a href="http://www.twitter.com/parishilton" target="_blank">Paris Hilton</a> for entertainment purposes rather than seeing her  as a style icon, entertainment it is.  I don&#8217;t really get this girl.   Sure, it was fun to follow her around a few years ago, it&#8217;s getting  really tiring.  I&#8217;m surprised people pay attention to her at all.  She  gives women in general a bad name, considering her history and really,  she&#8217;s at an age where she shouldn&#8217;t be partying the way she does  anymore.  Rather, she should be spearheading more elegant events for  good causes &#8211; something that women of her background tend to do,  specially when they reach a certain period in their lives.  And being as  well-known as she is, she will be able to influence donors of all  kinds, ranging from celebrities to ordinary people.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Paris-Hilton.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" data-attachment-id="4531" data-permalink="https://www.delectablychic.com/paris-hilton-should-use-name-to-influence-people/paris-hilton/" data-orig-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Paris-Hilton.jpg?fit=334%2C500&amp;ssl=1" data-orig-size="334,500" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;}" data-image-title="Paris Hilton" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Paris-Hilton.jpg?fit=200%2C300&amp;ssl=1" data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Paris-Hilton.jpg?fit=334%2C500&amp;ssl=1" tabindex="0" role="button" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4531" title="Paris Hilton" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Paris-Hilton.jpg?resize=334%2C500" alt="" width="334" height="500" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Paris-Hilton.jpg?w=334&amp;ssl=1 334w, https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Paris-Hilton.jpg?resize=100%2C150&amp;ssl=1 100w, https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Paris-Hilton.jpg?resize=200%2C300&amp;ssl=1 200w, https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Paris-Hilton.jpg?resize=150%2C225&amp;ssl=1 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 334px) 100vw, 334px" data-recalc-dims="1" /></a><strong><em>Paris Hilton at the premiere of her new reality show, The World According to Paris</em></strong></p>
<p>I know what people are going to say.  I&#8217;m probably going to get Tweets and comments about how Paris has the right to do whatever she wants, etc, etc&#8230; But the thing is, people only watch her to make fun of her.  Her stupidity (or at least, how the media portray her) is what makes her entertaining.  And she should feel badly for that.  I don&#8217;t really care that she has several products behind her name.  It&#8217;s her reputation that matters.  And the reputation isn&#8217;t a good one.  Think about it &#8211; she&#8217;s been in jail for drunk driving and really only became famous because of a video.  She&#8217;s tried acting and singing, did anyone see the movie or buy/download the CD?  Why does she do this to herself?  I realize there&#8217;s money involved, but can she keep this up in five or 10 years?  Why do WE care?</p>
<p>If I were Paris, I&#8217;d quickly give myself an image make-over.  I&#8217;d fire all my PR people, find a few important causes to back and reinvent myself as not a drunk party girl, but someone who backs good causes.  One can still be  in the limelight, press-wise by doing so.  Of course, it&#8217;s not likely that she&#8217;ll do that.  After all, who&#8217;ll the general public make fun of (besides the Kardashians)?</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Image courtesy of: <a href="http://www.shutterstock.com/gallery-564025p1.html?cr=00&amp;pl=edit-00">Helga Esteb</a> / <a href="http://www.shutterstock.com/?cr=00&amp;pl=edit-00">Shutterstock.com</a></strong></p>
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4521</post-id>	</item>
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		<title>Fab Dinner Parties That Are Sure To Please</title>
		<link>https://www.delectablychic.com/fabdinnerpartyideas/</link>
					<comments>https://www.delectablychic.com/fabdinnerpartyideas/#comments</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Lizz Hill]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 Mar 2011 07:00:45 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Dining]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[appetizers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dinner parties]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[hosting]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[nibblies]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.delectablychic.com/?p=3178</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Dinner parties are an elegant way for the mature and sophisticated to socialize with family and friends. While they can sometimes be stressful to organize, the payoff of a successful dinner party is a home full of satisfied guests, and incredible memories. A dinner party doesn’t have to be a traumatic experience for the host; [&#8230;]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: left;"><strong> </strong>Dinner parties are an elegant way for the mature and sophisticated to socialize with family and friends. While they can sometimes be stressful to organize, the payoff of a successful dinner party is a home full of satisfied guests, and incredible memories.</p>
<p>A dinner party doesn’t have to be a traumatic experience for the host; it is actually very simple to organize a terrific dinner party. Here is my step by step, how-to guide for throwing your very own stellar dinner!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/lizzis_dinner_party.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" data-attachment-id="3183" data-permalink="https://www.delectablychic.com/fabdinnerpartyideas/lizzis_dinner_party/" data-orig-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/lizzis_dinner_party.jpg?fit=604%2C453&amp;ssl=1" data-orig-size="604,453" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;}" data-image-title="lizzi&#8217;s_dinner_party" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/lizzis_dinner_party.jpg?fit=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1" data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/lizzis_dinner_party.jpg?fit=604%2C453&amp;ssl=1" tabindex="0" role="button" class="size-full wp-image-3183 aligncenter" title="lizzi's_dinner_party" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/lizzis_dinner_party.jpg?resize=483%2C362" alt="" width="483" height="362" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/lizzis_dinner_party.jpg?w=604&amp;ssl=1 604w, https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/lizzis_dinner_party.jpg?resize=150%2C112&amp;ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/lizzis_dinner_party.jpg?resize=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 483px) 100vw, 483px" data-recalc-dims="1" /></a></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Dinner party dilemma #1: The guests!</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Obviously, the first thing that needs to be addressed in the planning of a dinner party is the guest list. My recommendation is to keep the guest list under 10 people. After all, having dinner is supposed to be about intimacy and friendship; the more people added into the mix, the more opportunity there is for chaos.  Also remember, you need to have adequate space to accommodate your guests, so only invite as many people as you can sit comfortably at your dinner table.</p>
<p>Try to invite people you know to be like-minded, and will most likely get along with each other, as this will be key in the harmony of your dinner party. After all, the goal is to create an opportunity for your loved ones to socialize with one another and leave your house feeling happy and satisfied.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/pre-party_nibbles.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" data-attachment-id="3184" data-permalink="https://www.delectablychic.com/fabdinnerpartyideas/pre-party_nibbles/" data-orig-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/pre-party_nibbles.jpg?fit=453%2C604&amp;ssl=1" data-orig-size="453,604" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;}" data-image-title="pre-party_nibbles" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/pre-party_nibbles.jpg?fit=225%2C300&amp;ssl=1" data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/pre-party_nibbles.jpg?fit=453%2C604&amp;ssl=1" tabindex="0" role="button" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-3184" title="pre-party_nibbles" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/pre-party_nibbles.jpg?resize=225%2C300" alt="" width="225" height="300" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/pre-party_nibbles.jpg?resize=225%2C300&amp;ssl=1 225w, https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/pre-party_nibbles.jpg?resize=112%2C150&amp;ssl=1 112w, https://i0.wp.com/www.delectablychic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/pre-party_nibbles.jpg?w=453&amp;ssl=1 453w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 225px) 100vw, 225px" data-recalc-dims="1" /></a></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><strong>Some pre-party nibblies</strong></em></p>
<p><strong>Dinner party dilemma #2: What to serve!</strong></p>
<p>The most important element of a successful dinner party is, of course, the food! That being said, there are some easy steps you can take to make sure you’ll prepare a meal that everyone will love. Firstly, review the guest list, and try to consider everyone’s individual tastes, preferences, allergies, etc. You should know your dinner guests well enough to guess what they would like to eat, but if this is not the case do not hesitate to ask in advance regarding food preferences or allergies.</p>
<p>Next, plan on cooking for double the amount of people you have invited. This may seem excessive, but it is better to have leftovers than to be short on food and left with hungry guests.</p>
<p>When planning your menu, keep the following in mind:</p>
<p>1.       You will need a star of your meal- this usually is in the form of a protein (the turkey at Thanksgiving, for example!); but if you prefer a vegetarian meal, this could be a pasta dish, rice dish, or other vegetarian alternative.<br />
2.       Plan at least one vegetable dish, to accompany the meal. I recommend planning a few different vegetable dishes; this can be something as simple as steamed veggies, or can be a more elaborate vegetable side. Try to be creative!</p>
<p>3.        Plan at least one or two starch sides, to accompany your meat and veg. This can be rice, potatoes, noodles, etc. Everyone loves delicious starchy foods, so be sure to have more than enough as they tend to be inexpensive anyway, and it`s a great way to fill up hungry dinner guests.</p>
<p>4.       Plan foods that guests can nibble before dinner is served. Generally, people show up for dinner starved. So it is a good idea to provide snacks and beverages while dinner is being finished. Cheese and crackers are standard, and go great with wine. Make sure to have a variety of high-quality cheeses, and a few different types of crackers and breads, so that your platter looks full and welcoming.  A fruit or veggie platter is also a great idea.</p>
<p>5.       Plan an appetizer. Once again, this all factors in to making sure your guests leave fully satisfied. Besides that, appetizers are a good way to add a little more sophistication into your dinner party. Think about it- when you go to a fancy restaurant for dinner, you will most likely have more than one course. The same standards should apply for your dinner party.</p>
<p>6.       Plan dessert. Dessert doesn`t have to be complicated, it can be something as simple as store-bought cakes or pies. However, it is important that your menu includes a yummy dessert, as this is what will finish the meal and ensure the happiness of all your guests. Although not always necessary, I find that garnishing the dessert with fruit (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, etc) adds an element of freshness. Mint leaves are a great touch as well!</p>
<p>7.       Stock up on vino. While it is a good idea to keep other alcoholic drinks available, wine is usually expected at dinner. Plan your menu, and find a selection of red and white wines that will go well with your food. Make sure you have enough wine to go around; this is no time to be cheap!</p>
<p><strong>Dinner party dilemma #3: Ambiance!</strong></p>
<p>The environment in which your party is hosted is just as important to your guests as the food that is served. This should go without saying, but just in case there is clarification needed, make sure your home is clean and tidy well before guests arrive. This includes the kitchen. While no cook enjoys having nosy guests hovering in the kitchen while the food is being finished, it should be expected that people will come into the kitchen at some point. Be sure to clean as you cook, washing pots and pans as needed, and give the floors and countertops a cleaning before anyone arrives.  Think of it this way- the cleanliness of your kitchen, and home in general, will go a long way to bettering the experience of your dinner guests. After all, would you want to eat dinner in a dirty house?</p>
<p>Also consider mood lighting. If your light switches have dimmers, dim the lights slightly but not so much that people can`t see each other. Candles are another way to create mood lighting, and add to the ambiance by releasing a pleasant scent in your home.</p>
<p>With these helpful tips, and good organization and planning ahead of time, your dinner party is sure to be a raging success! Stay tuned for more great tips, as well as recipes and advice to solve all your food and hosting dilemmas! Happy hosting!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><strong> Lizz Hill, a Toronto-based chef, runs her own catering company, called The Girl Next Door Catering.  She also teaches cooking at the LCBO. </strong></em></p>
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		<title>Q&#038;A with Designer Hillary Keech of Modest Designs</title>
		<link>https://www.delectablychic.com/hillarykeech/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Connie Limoncelli]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 17 Nov 2010 07:00:16 +0000</pubDate>
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					<description><![CDATA[Connie Limoncelli Most people want to live in a beautiful home even if they don&#8217;t always have the skills, know-how or budget to make that happen. Enter Hillary Keech of Modest Designs a firm whose ethos is centred on the idea that gorgeous interiors can be had no matter your budget. Case in point, the [&#8230;]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Connie Limoncelli</strong></p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><a style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" href="https://i0.wp.com/1.bp.blogspot.com/_WOYZ-9h9oyk/TJJhMm--VeI/AAAAAAAAEfk/nNQbWRx3qA4/s1600/hillary+keech+modest+designs.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://i0.wp.com/1.bp.blogspot.com/_WOYZ-9h9oyk/TJJhMm--VeI/AAAAAAAAEfk/nNQbWRx3qA4/s400/hillary+keech+modest+designs.jpg?resize=256%2C400" border="0" alt="" width="256" height="400" data-recalc-dims="1" /></a></div>
<p>Most people want to live in a beautiful home even if they don&#8217;t always have the skills, know-how or budget to make that happen. Enter Hillary Keech of <a href="http://www.hillarykeech.com/">Modest Designs</a> a firm whose ethos is centred on the idea that gorgeous interiors can be had no matter your budget. Case in point, the kitchen renovation featured below, where the complete dining area was decked out for less than $2,000. Keech, who has worked on a range of projects from everyday homes, celebrity abodes and boutique hotels, also favours using vintage items when possible to up the originality factor in a room, but still keep the price reasonable. Want to know more about what inspires this designer, the differences between residential and commercial projects, and advice she has for those looking to start out in the interior design field? Then read on&#8230;</p>
<p><strong>CL: Your company is called Modest Designs, what was the genesis of the name and how does it reflect your design sensibilities?</strong></p>
<p>HK: I believe that a well-edited space is a crucial aspect of any room. My favorite rooms usually have a restrained palette. I like design that is subtle and effective, design that does not need to hit you over the head to be beautiful. I liked the name modest because I felt it summed up my design philosophy in one word.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" href="https://i0.wp.com/3.bp.blogspot.com/_WOYZ-9h9oyk/TJJjZdWta4I/AAAAAAAAEgE/RCfOz62RdQU/s1600/modest+designs+kitchen.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://i0.wp.com/3.bp.blogspot.com/_WOYZ-9h9oyk/TJJjZdWta4I/AAAAAAAAEgE/RCfOz62RdQU/s400/modest+designs+kitchen.jpg?resize=286%2C400" border="0" alt="" width="286" height="400" data-recalc-dims="1" /></a></div>
<p><strong>CL: How did you know that being an interior designer was your calling and how did you get stared in the business?</strong></p>
<p>HK: I’ve known since I was a young girl that I needed to be involved in a creative field, where I would constantly rearrange my room at home (often driving my parents crazy). During high school I interned with an architect in my hometown, mostly answering phones but also learning about how the business worked.</p>
<p><strong>CL: When considering a blank slate of a room—or worse, one that is decorated in all the wrong ways—where do you draw your inspiration from?</strong> <strong>Is there usually one piece that acts as the jumping off point?</strong></p>
<p>HK:  When starting a design project I always comb through hundreds of images in design magazines, books, and blogs to try and come up with a clear design style. It also helps if the client has one item (it doesn’t have to be a piece of furniture) that they love, it really helps express their preferred design style.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" href="https://i0.wp.com/1.bp.blogspot.com/_WOYZ-9h9oyk/TJJiIv2-KEI/AAAAAAAAEfs/pePOyglKRII/s1600/modest+design+kitchen+makeover+before.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://i0.wp.com/1.bp.blogspot.com/_WOYZ-9h9oyk/TJJiIv2-KEI/AAAAAAAAEfs/pePOyglKRII/s400/modest+design+kitchen+makeover+before.jpg?resize=400%2C267" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="267" data-recalc-dims="1" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" href="https://i0.wp.com/3.bp.blogspot.com/_WOYZ-9h9oyk/TJJiTq4UoKI/AAAAAAAAEf0/s7PHY3iKmNE/s1600/modest+design+kitchen+makeover+after.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://i0.wp.com/3.bp.blogspot.com/_WOYZ-9h9oyk/TJJiTq4UoKI/AAAAAAAAEf0/s7PHY3iKmNE/s400/modest+design+kitchen+makeover+after.jpg?resize=400%2C286" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="286" data-recalc-dims="1" /></a></div>
<p><strong>CL: These are some stunning <a href="http://sognisorrisi.blogspot.com/2010/07/stunning-kitchen-makeover-by-hillary.html">Before and Afters</a> on this kitchen reno. What was the biggest obstacle you faced on that project and your favorite part of the room?</strong></p>
<p>HK: The biggest obstacle was balancing the client’s hopes of an open, modern, kitchen with the realities of their budget. It was important to know where we could spend less and still achieve the modern feel in the room. The rug is a great example, we were able to buy this for $150, yet it still makes the dining area warm and inviting, as well as my favorite part of the kitchen.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" href="https://i0.wp.com/3.bp.blogspot.com/_WOYZ-9h9oyk/TJJizRrlGQI/AAAAAAAAEf8/9Reb01ULCmQ/s1600/modest+designs.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://i0.wp.com/3.bp.blogspot.com/_WOYZ-9h9oyk/TJJizRrlGQI/AAAAAAAAEf8/9Reb01ULCmQ/s400/modest+designs.jpg?resize=400%2C400" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="400" data-recalc-dims="1" /></a></div>
<p><strong>CL: Modest Designs works on both commercial projects and private homes—what are some of the differences you find with these kinds of projects? Are your objectives or the expectations placed on you different from one to the other?</strong></p>
<p>HK: Both commercial and residential have their perks, for example commercial can be really fun because you have more freedom in your choices. You get to design for a specific aesthetic and all the choices are dictated by that. The downside of course is you don’t experience a personal connection with a client, it becomes very impersonal. My favorite part of working on private homes is that you get to influence how someone lives, by inspiring them and hopefully making the everyday a little more beautiful.</p>
<p><strong>CL: What advice would you give to the burgeoning design stars out there who would like to break into the interior design field?</strong></p>
<p>HK: Find a firm that you love the work of and work for them, even if it means an unpaid internship. You will learn an incredible amount about your sense of style and what it takes to succeed.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;">For more information on Modest Designs you can visit their <a href="http://www.hillarykeech.com/">website</a> or Hillary&#8217;s <a href="http://blog.hillarykeech.com/">blog</a>.</div>
<p><em><span style="font-size: xx-small;">All photos courtesy of Modest Designs</span></em></p>
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