Lifestyle: Plan your holiday menu

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Thanks for stopping by Lifestyle Monday.  We cover a broad range of topics that just may enhance your life in some small way.

Since Memorial day weekend is looming, we wanted to give you some yummy considerations for your menu.

 

I just dusted off my grill for the first time this spring, to get ready for some tasty meals this weekend.

I ended up grilling some steaks (a very rare thing in my house) but we had a taste for red meat and boy was it delish!

I added steamed corn on the cob and chinese cabbage for the sides.

Are you cooking out this weekend?  What’s on your menu?  If you need some ideas, here they are.

1. Steamed corn on the cob Mexican style.

This is soooooo good, I had it for the first time last year, from one of those truck restaurants on wheels, and I’ve been looking for a recipe ever since.

get the recipe here

2. Grilled portabella mushrooms

Marinate your mushrooms with the recipe that follows and your taste buds will thank you.

Get the recipe here

3. Grilled shrimp kebobs

mandarin shrimp kebab recipe

4. Turkey bugers

5. Deviled eggs

get recipe here

6. Cut veggies….I love this idea because it’s a great way to avoid double dipping

 7. Fruit kebobs

source

8. Broccoli grape and pasta salad

Hands down, this is the best pasta salad I’ve ever tasted.  It has the right mix of flavors, that make your mouth sing.

Get the recipe here

 9. Beverages

  1. Fresh squeezed lemonade
  2. Sweetened iced tea
  3. Champagne with strawberries/mojitos

10. Dessert

In the spirit of keeping it simple….I think an Ice cream bar would be great!

Buy several flavors of ice cream and load a table up with lots of toppings from whipped cream, to chocolate, cherries, strawberries, sprinkles, butterscotch, almonds, graham cracker crumbs and whatever else suits your fancy.

So what’s on your menu? Have a yummy weekend!

Do you need help getting  a jump start on a project?

Does the process seem a bit overwhelming?

Consider downloading our PROJECT STARTER TOOL KIT to help guide you in the right direction.

It’s easy. Every new subscriber receives it for FREE! Look for the button on our home page and if you know someone that might also benefit, share it forward.

We also have 3 distinct design plans:

Refresh Your Space
The “DIY Plan”
A Total Redesign
Contact us to see which plan is right for you; our one hour consultation, can help get you started in the right direction.

Ricci Jackson is a Certified Interior Decorator and founder of Your Design Partner.

The goal of Ydp is to meet you where you are In your design process.

Reserve your appointment today by calling (217) 722-4806 or email us at rjackson@yourdesignpartner.com
Inspiring creativity,

Ricci

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This Week’s Blog Lineup: Get ready for the holiday weekend

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Stop by to see what we’re up to this week

This week’s lineup is about planning for the upcoming holiday weekend.  Personally, I am looking forward to some quality time with a dear friend (who is visiting), lounging outdoors and firing up the grill.I hope this post inspires you to dust off your grill and get ready for some outdoor fun.

Monday Lifestyle:  Plan your menu

Wednesday That’s Pinterest-ing:  Serve your meal in style

Friday Color Fabulous: Update your outdoor space with new cushions, an outside rug, and throw pillows.

I don’t know about you, but I can already smell the wonderful aroma of BBQ

Have a super fantasic week!!!!!!

Inspiring Creativity,

Ricci

 
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Color Fabulous: Garden Stools Add A Splash Of Color

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Each week we provide Color Fabulous tips that help you punctuate your surroundings. Garden stools are a popular trend that add both function and style to your surroundings.  Here are 5 reasons to decorate with the Garden stool.

1. Great for small spaces

see our pinboard

2. If you need extra seating

our pin board

3. To Add a tasteful Pop of color

see our pinboardsee our pinboard

4. As a side table

see our pinboard

5. An affordable design element

Here are a few places, you might find them…

Ballard designs $149

Overstock.com

West elm $179

I’ve also spotted them at Tuesday morning, Home goods, and Tj Maxx.

How would you incorporate this into your decor?

Do you need help getting a jump start on a project?

Does the process seem a bit overwhelming?

Consider downloading our PROJECT STARTER TOOL KIT to help guide you in the right direction.

It’s easy. Every new subscriber receives it for FREE! Look for the button on our home page and if you know someone that might also benefit, share it forward.

We also have 3 distinct design plans:

Refresh Your Space,The “DIY Plan”, or A Total Redesign

Contact us to see which plan is right for you; our one hour consultation, can help get you started in the right direction.

Ricci Jackson is a Certified Interior Decorator and founder of Your Design Partner.

The goal of Ydp is to meet you where you are In your design process.

Reserve your appointment today by calling (217) 722-4806 or email us at rjackson@yourdesignpartner.com
Inspiring creativity,

Ricci

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That’s Pinterest-ing! 7 Ways to repurpose shipping palettes

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Each Week we discover interesting topics on Pinterest and share them here.   This week we are loving the various ways to repurpose and upcycle shipping palettes.  

Shipping palettes are those things used for shipping large oversized items.

If you’ve ordered furniture recently, you’ve probably seen them.

Don’t throw these gems away!

Here are some of our favorite uses…Hopefully, they will inspire you to create something cool.

1. Modular seating
source
2. Outdoor swing

source

3.  Cocktail table

source

4. Storage 

source

5. Bold cocktail table

source

6. Create an accent wall

source

7.  Raised Garden

source

Are you ready to create a unique piece of furniture?

Check your local retailers for their throw aways.

Do you need help getting  a jump start on a project?

Does the process seem a bit overwhelming?

Consider downloading our PROJECT STARTER TOOL KIT to help guide you in the right direction. It’s easy. Every new subscriber receives it for FREE! Look for the button on our home page and if you know someone that might also benefit, share it forward.

We also have 3 distinct design plans:

Refresh Your Space The “DIY Plan” A Total Redesign Contact us to see which plan is right for you; our one hour consultation, can help get you started in the right direction. Ricci Jackson is a Certified Interior Decorator and founder of Your Design Partner. The goal of Ydp is to meet you where you are In your design process. Reserve your appointment today by calling (217) 722-4806 or email us at rjackson@yourdesignpartner.com

 Inspiring creativity,

Ricci

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Lifestyle: Summer Cocktails

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With Summertime just around the corner, there will be plenty of opportunities for cook outs, celebrations, and entertaining.  I’ve been collecting a few beverage ideas on my Pinterest boards over the past few months to share.

I find that entertaining preparation is stressful enough, so serving one or two signature cocktails, will free up some time for you to enjoy the party too.

Here are 5 cocktails to try for your next gathering

1. Craberry Orange Sparkler

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cranberry juice cocktail
  • 1/3 cup orange-flavored liqueur, such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier
  • 1 bottle (750 ml) Champagne or other dry white sparkling wine, chilled
  • 24 ounces ginger ale, chilled

Directions

  • In a measuring cup, combine juice and liqueur. Divide among eight Champagne flutes or wine glasses. To serve, top with equal parts Champagne and ginger ale. source
2. Basil Limeade Slushie
From Foodandwine.com, is tasty with our without rum.

3. Skinny Dipping

2 oz. Voli Lemon Vodka
2 oz. fresh lemon juice
1 oz. strawberry puree
1/2 oz. agave nectar
prosecco to top

Shake all ingredients except prosecco and strain into an ice-filled 16 oz. cup. Top with prosecco and garnish with a strawberry. source

4. Strawberry Champaign Punch

 YOU’LL NEED
Yield: 12 serving

1 liter sparkling champagne
1¼ cups fruit punch
1¼ cups ginger ale
1¼ cups orange juice
1 pint fresh strawberries
1 pint raspberry sherbet
1 pint vanilla ice cream

Instructions
Chill juices and sodas before using.
Mix juices, soda and wine in punch bowl.
Add strawberries and stir.
Spoon in ice-cream and sherbet, mixing.
Add ice ball preferably made of frozen punch.
Garnish with strawberries, kiwi, orange slice! source

5. Cuban Mojito (my fav)

Traditional Mojito recipe

1/2 lime juice

  • Rum – it is recommended to use Havana white rum or Baccardi.
  • 1 or 2 teaspoons of sugar
  • 6 sprigs of mint
  • Ice
  • Soda, sparkling or tonic water

Mojito Preparation

Use a glass, preferably a short wide one. Put the mint leaves inside. Add the sugar and crush with a muddler, let it soak for a few minutes.

It is really important to mash gently the mint leaves to release the scent for the distinctive fresh taste of this cocktail. This is one of the best kept secrets of making mojitos.

  • Crush ice and put it in the glass.
  • Add rum and mix with the ice.
  • Fill to rim with lime juice and sparkling water, and stir.

Garnish the cocktail with mint leaves and serve it with a straw.

Now lets serve it up in style!  Here are a few beverage dispensers that will help you do just that.

Z Gallerie

Frontgate.com

Ballard Designs.com

Prep these in advance, let your guests serve themselves…now you relax!  Which was your fav?

Do you need help getting  a jump start on a project?

Does the process seem a bit overwhelming?

Consider downloading our PROJECT STARTER TOOL KIT to help guide you in the right direction.

It’s easy. Every new subscriber receives it for FREE! Look for the button on our home page and if you know someone that might also benefit, share it forward.

We also have 3 distinct design plans:

Refresh Your Space
The “DIY Plan”
A Total Redesign
Contact us to see which plan is right for you; our one hour consultation, can help get you started in the right direction.

Ricci Jackson is a Certified Interior Decorator and founder of Your Design Partner.

The goal of Ydp is to meet you where you are In your design process.

Reserve your appointment today by calling (217) 722-4806 or email us at rjackson@yourdesignpartner.com
Inspiring creativity,

Ricci

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This Week’s blog lineup – Happy Mother’s Day!!!

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Stop by to see what we’re up to this week

My son couldn’t wait to show me the Mother’s Day card he made, so I got to read it on Friday.  It started out like this:

 ” I Thank you from the bottom of my heart.  You are the best mother, cook, interior designer, wife, fly swatter, volleyball player, and friend a 13 year old boy could wish for.”  I won’t bore you with the entire card….but this made me laugh out loud, really loud…fly swatter?  Really? but that’s my son, he keeps me in stiches.  And yes, I do have special fly swatting skills:)

Upon reflection, I found myself inspired to pen a few thoughts on motherhood 

Here’s this week’s lineup:

Monday Lifestyle: Summer Cocktails

Wednesday That’s Pinterest-ing: 7 Ways to repurpose shipping pallets

Friday Color Fabulous: Garden Stools Add A Splash Of Color

Have a super fantasic week!!!!!!

Inspiring Creativity,

Ricci

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Color Fabulous: Our Color Consultation Process

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Each week we provide Color Fabulous tips that help you punctuate your surroundings.  After getting a few inquiries about our Color Consultations, we decided to share what our process looks like.

So what exactly is a color consultation and what can you expect?

There are 5 steps to our color consulation process

  1. We meet with you at your home, to discuss your color goals.
  2. We’ll ask you to share what your favorite and least favorite colors are. (it’s vital to know yours and your partner’s)
  3. We’ll take pictures of your surroundings to get an idea of what colors will work in your existing space (particularly if you are keeping your furnishings).  We’ll also come up with a color palette that can easily transition from one room to the next.
  4. It’s important to discover the feeling, mood or emotional response you’re seeking in your space.  We’ll help you achieve this. (This is vital, because color can have a significant impact on how comfortable or uncomfortable you are in your  home.)
  5. After taking notes and photographs, we’ll schedule a follow up appointment  to review the color plan and provide paint samples for you to test drive in your space. (this will help you gauge how colors look various times of day before making an investment in your paint.  

Once we select our color palette…..all systems are go and you’ll soon be on your way to a home that speaks to you and feels right.

Our color guide is included in our project starter tool kit.  Feel free to download a copy at your convenience.

Do you need help getting a jump start on a project?

Does the process seem a bit overwhelming?

Consider downloading our PROJECT STARTER TOOL KIT to help guide you in the right direction.

It’s easy. Every new subscriber receives it for FREE! Look for the button on our home page and if you know someone that might also benefit, share it forward.

We also have 3 distinct design plans:

Refresh Your Space,The “DIY Plan”, or A Total Redesign

Contact us to see which plan is right for you; our one hour consultation, can help get you started in the right direction.

Ricci Jackson is a Certified Interior Decorator and founder of Your Design Partner.

The goal of Ydp is to meet you where you are In your design process.

Reserve your appointment today by calling (217) 722-4806 or email us at rjackson@yourdesignpartner.com
Inspiring creativity,

Ricci

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That’s Pinterest-ing! 5 Ways To Get You Ready For Memorial Day

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Each Week we discover interesting topics on Pinterest and share them here.   What are your plans for Memorial Day weekend? 

It’s time for the weather to show consistent signs of sunshine, mild days and picnic weather!  Memorial day weekend is often when pools and amusement parks open and  when many of us spark up the grill…..So are you ready?  Grab  5 quick ideas to get a jump start on this Memorial day weekend.

1. Dress for the occasion

These affordable items can be picked up from Old Navy.com

 

2. Entertain with a festive table cloth from Amazon.com

It’s less than $4.00. Add blue plates and napkins and you’ll be ready for guests.

source

3. Serve an inspired dessert

source

4. Decorate in red white and blue

These products are available from Frontgate.com

5. See a fireworks show!

What ideas will you embrace?

Lets us remember those that served and sacrificed for our country….Happy and safe Memorial Day!!!

Do you need help getting  a jump start on a project?

Does the process seem a bit overwhelming?

Consider downloading our PROJECT STARTER TOOL KIT to help guide you in the right direction. It’s easy. Every new subscriber receives it for FREE! Look for the button on our home page and if you know someone that might also benefit, share it forward.

We also have 3 distinct design plans:

Refresh Your Space The “DIY Plan” A Total Redesign Contact us to see which plan is right for you; our one hour consultation, can help get you started in the right direction. Ricci Jackson is a Certified Interior Decorator and founder of Your Design Partner. The goal of Ydp is to meet you where you are In your design process. Reserve your appointment today by calling (217) 722-4806 or email us at rjackson@yourdesignpartner.com

 Inspiring creativity,

Ricci

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Lifestyle: Meet Grace and Matt

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I am so excited to introduce two new members of the Your Design Partner Internship team.

Meet Grace and Matt, from the University of Cincinnati!

Grace is a Marketing major who will help us synergise our social media marketing efforts, and contribute to our blog.  She is very creative and has already given us a gimpse of her skills.  If you missed it, take a look here.  

Matt has a double major in both Rhetoric & Professional writing and Sociology.  He has published many posters and brochures and has even earned awards for his work.  We’re excited for the expertise he brings to the team and look forward to his creations.  

I gave Grace and Matt projects that would help guide my decision for adding them to the team.

All I can say is wow!  They were professional, timely, produced quality work and made it extremely easy for me to say yes, yes, yes!

Welcome Grace and Matt…..We’re so excited to have you!

Do you need help getting  a jump start on a project?

Does the process seem a bit overwhelming?

Consider downloading our PROJECT STARTER TOOL KIT to help guide you in the right direction.

It’s easy. Every new subscriber receives it for FREE! Look for the button on our home page and if you know someone that might also benefit, share it forward.

We also have 3 distinct design plans:

Refresh Your Space
The “DIY Plan”
A Total Redesign
Contact us to see which plan is right for you; our one hour consultation, can help get you started in the right direction.

Ricci Jackson is a Certified Interior Decorator and founder of Your Design Partner.

The goal of Ydp is to meet you where you are In your design process.

Reserve your appointment today by calling (217) 722-4806 or email us at rjackson@yourdesignpartner.com
Inspiring creativity,

Ricci

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This Week’s Blog Lineup

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Stop by to see what we’re up to this week

Monday Lifestyle: Meet Grace and Matt

Wednesday That’s Pinterest-ing: Planning For Memorial Day Guests?

Friday Color Fabulous: What Can I Expect From  A Color  Consultation?

Inspiring Creativity,

Ricci

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