Ideas & Tips — Seasonal

If you're like most people, you probably make ambitious goals with the best of intentions but then find yourself struggling to meet them. Here are some tips for setting yourself up for success from sociologist, life coach and O Magazine columnist Martha Beck: Identify your goal: You'd be surprised how many people fail to clearly identify their goal. Rather than saying you plan "to lose weight," commit to losing 10 pounds.  Break it down: Next, Beck suggests breaking down your goal into a single daily task, such as exercising for 30 minutes. Then keep dividing it in half until it...

In many parts of the country, a hint of fall is already in the air, with folks enjoying bright crisp days and clear cool nights. If you're excited for autumn, be sure to celebrate it's arrival with some seasonal food and drink! Here are some of our favorites: Apples: If you live somewhere that apples grow, schedule time to go pick fruit at a local orchard with your family! Then arrange the bounty in a lovely, stainless steel fruit bowl on your counter. You'll have a quick and healthy snack at hand all week!  Butternut squash gratin: Butternut squash is one...

We have previously discussed on this blog how to set up an at-home bar cart to add to your decor and enhance your entertaining. One of the most exciting parts about setting up a bar cart is that you can style it according to the seasons. As the mercury starts to dip and the leaves begin to change color, it's the perfect time to bring your beverage area from summer to fall.  Here are some tips: Add a touch of nature: If you live in an area where the foliage changes colors, collect some lovely fall leaves and frame them in...

An ice cream social is one of the easiest and most fun parties you can throw, especially during the hot summer months! Here are our top tips for a successful and sweet bash that guests of all ages are sure to love:  Flavors: Offer guests at least a few flavors to choose from, such as vanilla, chocolate and strawberry. Offbeat flavors like pistachio can also be fun! If you have any guests with special dietary restrictions, try to offer something they can eat as well.  Ice cream cups: Be sure to purchase attractive-yet-sturdy dishware like these lovely ice cream cups! Stainless...

Tea parties aren't just for kids! Next time you host a gathering for a group of women — perhaps a bridal or baby shower, book club or luncheon — throw a grown up tea party. Here are some tips for sipping in style:  Encourage hats: Be sure to send out traditional invitations on pretty stationery. Encourage your guests to wear their favorite tea party attire, including pretty, Kate Middleton-inspired hats.  Make dainty sandwiches: Sandwiches make great tea party fare, especially if you remove the crusts and divide them into tiny, bite-sized pieces. If you're feeling especially creative, use cookie cutters...