Ideas & Tips — Celebration

If you've gone out to a brewpub or into the home of a beer aficionado lately, you have probably noticed that there are a whole bunch of different beer glass styles in heavy rotation these days. Each type of glass corresponds to a particular brewing tradition and is meant to bring out the particular qualities associated with that beer style. That's not to say that you can't serve beers in the "wrong" glass, only that serving them in their intended glassware will give you a better idea of which characteristics the brewers were aiming to bring out in the beer....

Make the most out of the warm weather and throw a barbecue for your friends, family and neighbors. Here are our top tips for hosting the perfect grilling extravaganza: A little preparation goes a long way: Mareya Ibrahim, chef and author of East Like You Give a Fork: The Real Dish On Eating to Thrive, gives suggestion from AARP magazine that as the day of the event draws closer, you start by cleaning the grill. A good stainless steel grill brush can help get rid of stubborn meat, cheese and vegetables, she says. Next gather your grilling tools, including tongs; a basting...

If you recently became engaged, you may be wondering exactly how to create your wedding registry. Here are some tips to keep in mind as you begin the process: Do register: Registering makes gift giving easy for friends and family members, especially those who might not be confident that they know your tastes well. Registries let loved ones know exactly what you want, removing the guess work. Be tactful: Instead of referencing your registry on your save-the-date card, include a link to your wedding website and link to your registry there.  Include all price points: The gift your mom's coworker sends will...

There's nothing better than a bouquet of fresh flowers to brighten up your home, unless it's a bouquet of fresh flowers that you put together yourself. You don't have to be a professional florist to learn how to make your own beautiful arrangements. Here are some tips for beginners:  Decide on a flower arrangement design: Better Homes & Gardens Magazine recommends to decide on a color scheme before shopping for flowers. Then, when you go to buy flowers, you know you're picking up colors that work well together. the key is to be "open-minded" and see what you are drawn to....

Are you in charge of throwing a friend or family member a wedding or baby shower? If so, consider using a garden-theme for a fun and flower-filled affair. Here are some tips:  Arrange fruit: Set out this beautiful basket and fill it with fresh fruit for your guests to snack on. Invite them in style: Send mailed invitations that are in keeping with your garden theme. You might choose a floral stationery or tuck a silk daisy inside the envelope.  Make floral straws: We love Martha Stewart's idea of using pretty paper to turn your straws into awesome centerpieces. For the "stems,"...