Entertaining
June 2013
-
Help dad save the world!
Four great Father’s Day gifts that will transform Dad into Super Dad.
more -
Gifting guide
Where do you turn for those hard-to-shop-for friends? How much should you spend? Here are some gift-giving etiquette tips to get you started.
more -
![Thinking outside the box [cake]](http://associaliving.com/wp-content/themes/WF-TMAX-Associa-v2/timthumb.php?src=http://associaliving.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/june2013-beyond-cake.jpg&w=136&h=136&zc=1)
Thinking outside the box [cake]
With wedding season and summer birthday parties around the corner, here are some suggestions to spice up your celebration.
more
May 2013
-
Creative backyard games
Revamp the outdoor games of yesteryear with these new, fun outdoor games, perfect for the start of National Backyard Games week.
more -
Gourmet sandwiches
Before you put any old sandwich in your picnic basket, check out these gourmet upgrades of your classic sandwich favorites.
more -
Memorial Day cookouts
Memorial Day is a theme all its own, but why not add to that? Create your own special theme for the holiday.
more
April 2013
-
Roasted garlic is easy and delicious
Roasting garlic doesn’t just ease its notorious bite, it can also enhance its many healthful properties.
more -
Love cereal? Make your own.
You don’t have to sit around in you PJs watching cartoons to enjoy some cereal. Check out our delicious and healthy recipes here.
more -
Welcome back baseball season with a First Pitch Party
What better way to celebrate the start of another season of our national pastime than by hosting a First Pitch Party!
more
March 2013
-
No more green beer
This St. Patty’s, liven up your annual bash with these Irish cocktails that will give you total “bragh-ing” rights.
more -
Not your mama’s Easter ham
This Easter, instead of serving the same ham your mom always cooked, take a cue from one of these 5 recipes.
more -
Keys to great spring parties
After months of entertaining inside, don’t forget to spruce up and prepare your yard or patio before the guests arrive.
more
February 2013
-
Bring Mardi Gras home
A few tips for getting your Cajun party started with ideas for decorating your home.
more -
Singles valentine party
If the thought of Valentine’s Day makes you want to roll your eyes rather than bat your eyes, celebrate with fellow singles.
more -
A true red
During this season of love, it’s more important than ever that your cake comes out in a beautiful, deep red.
more
January 2013
-
Entertain like a champ at this year’s bowl game parties
Grab your closest friends and make yourself at home with these fun football party foods.
more -
Healthy and hearty
Nothing warms you up when the weather is freezing like a big, steaming bowl of soup.
more -
Celebrating a winter birthday
Replace “indoor drab” with “party fab” and try one of these creative and interactive party ideas.
more
December 2012
-
A classic Christmas goose
Channel your inner Dickens and create a classic Christmas dinner your family will remember for years to come.
more -
Holiday party on a budget
Instead of a free-spending affair, go low-key and keep your guests and pocketbook happy.
more -
Countdown to the New Year with cupcakes
Ditch the black tie attire for a festive black tie cupcake at your very own cupcake countdown party.
more
November 2012
-
Set a great holiday table
Complicated though the proper place setting may seem, consideration for your guests should not be a challenge with a few simple tips.
more -
Three dips you have to try
Try these three unique dips that are easy to make at home.
more -
Kindle the feeling of fall with homemade candles
Fall is in the air, so bring the outdoors in this season with some DIY homemade candles.
more
October 2012
-
Pizza for breakfast!
Pizza is a healthy way to start the morning, as either a weekend treat or a grab-and-go option on the way to the office.
more -
Setting the table for fall
Setting the perfect fall table doesn’t have to mean buying accessories and serving pieces from a store or catalog.
more -
Fun ‘finger’ foods for Halloween
When it comes to entertaining little ghouls and boys, make sure you have the perfect food on hand.
more
September 2012
-
‘Sip and see’ baby as an alternative to traditional showers
The latest trend in baby showers isn’t actually a shower at all.
more -
Make your grandparent feel grand
Let your grandparents know that the little ones appreciate them for more than the candy in their pocket.
more -
Get creative with cheesecake
For inventive cooks, the plain-Jane (but delicious) cheesecake is like an artist’s palette.
more
August 2012
-
Fancy homemade cupcakes
All it takes is a little creativity and a few simple steps to take homemade cupcakes to the next level.
more -
New twists on Labor Day
Not feeling barbeque? Try one of these unique twists on the traditional backyard barbeque party that doesn’t include bibs and wet naps.
more -
A modern twist to mac n’ cheese
The many trendy spins on macaroni and cheese prove that the classic comfort food is a culinary playground for adventurous cooks.
more
July 2012
-
Icebox cakes are a great summer treat
Before air conditioning conquered the hot kitchen, mothers relied on icebox cakes in the summertime.
more -
Packing the perfect picnic
Picnics are a perfect way to have fun, save some money, and break your kids away from the lull of summer’s “indoor blues.”
more -
Slushy drinks for everyone
Summer is the perfect time for something cold and slushy, but fast food drinks can get expensive and frozen beverage makers messy!
more
June 2012
-
Get creative with Father’s Day gifts
The thought counts, of course. But this Father’s Day, why not give Dad something personalized that he’ll actually use?
more -
Summer crafts your boys will love
Faced with a summer home with boys who love P.E. and recess more than cleaning their room?
more -
Simple ideas for a great pool party
Summertime living should be easy, as should summertime entertaining.
more
May 2012
-
Summer wine to dine for!
Don’t let rising summer temperatures be an excuse for putting that wine opener away.
more -
Fresh tortillas … at home!
Not much compares to the taste of a fresh, warm tortilla straight off the griddle.
more -
Tip your fedora to the ’50s with retro cocktail party
Say “so long” to beer and hello to Tom Collins and Frank Sinatra with a retro cocktail party!
more
April 2012
-
Hosting an Easter egg decorating party
Break out the Dixie cups and bring on the wire loops!
more -
The “new” garden party
Turn any homegrown gathering into a garden party your friends and neighbors will remember long after spring has sprung.
more -
It’s a slumber party!
The best slumber parties always include plenty of fun food, but don’t settle for the standard pizza, popcorn, and potato chips. Think outside the bag!
more
March 2012
-
Rethink pizza night
If you’re short on time, there’s no shame in using French bread, English muffins, or tortillas.
more -
Five reasons to celebrate March
Best of all, these celebrations don’t need to include obligatory visits from distant relatives or romantic entanglements.
more -
Throw a St. Patrick’s Day party
For a fun game hide a leprechaun somewhere in the house and reward its finder with a bagful of chocolate coins.
more
February 2012
-
Host a slam-dunk March Madness party
Don’t let the tip-off catch you unprepared—start planning your March Madness party right now!
more -
What’s your entertaining style?
Playing to your strengths makes all the difference in how you entertain.
more -
A twist on pretzel treats
Pretzels are great because they are pre-made and really easy to handle. The saltiness pairs great with chocolate and they offer a lot of versatility.
more
January 2012
-
Soup shooters: ultimate party food
Soup shooters make a great first impression on your guests.
more -
Host the ultimate Super Bowl party
Super Bowl parties are all about getting together with a group — it’s what’s fun about watching the big game.
more -
Top catering secrets
Check out these tips that will help even the most seasoned amateur planner throw a professional-quality party.
more
December 2011
-
Holiday flashback parties to remember
Certain decades lend themselves to holiday party themes, giving an instant touch of nostalgia to the event.
more -
Decorate cookies like a pro
This cookie season, kick your decorated baked goods up a notch with a few tips from the pros.
more -
Gifts that can’t be wrapped
Giving the gift of an experience isn’t easily contained in ribbon and wrapping paper.
more
November 2011
-
Surprising stuffing variations
It’s fairly hard to mess up stuffing. The bread base lends itself well to the dish’s ability to improve overnight.
more -
Place cards with pizazz
Dazzle your party guests with place cards that reflect a theme and spark conversation.
more -
Gifts inspired by nature
This holiday season, create a shopping list with some help from Mother Nature.
more
October 2011
-
Avoiding party store pitfalls
Party supply stores can be a last-minute lifesaver, but the convenience often comes at a price.
more -
Pumpkin bread: reimagined
With a few twists on the traditional recipe, pumpkin bread transitions from sweet treat to savory staple.
more -
Spooky October drinks
Look past apple cider and have fun with anything from a green witch’s brew to a punch overflowing with fog (really!)
more
September 2011
-
Fantastic apple recipes for fall
Whether baked or steamed, these crisp fruits lend themselves to as many preparations as there are varieties in the orchard.
more -
Dramatic Fall Party Flowers
The fall season offers several new options for your party décor.
more -
5 party essentials
Before you usher in your first guests, do a quick inventory to see if you have these five indispensible party essentials.
more
August 2011
-
Take a dip in hummus
This Mediterranean staple brings savory and satisfying together with endless variety.
more -
Color-theme your next party
Think one consistent color for everything from decorations and appetizers to entrées, desserts, and even guest attire.
more -
Summer’s ‘bucket’ list
Along with floating in the pool, try a few of these activities to help summer go out with a bang.
more
July 2011
-
Patriotic cocktails that sparkle
Your drinks can showcase Old Glory’s colors and bring extra sizzle to your holiday celebration.
more -
Sizzlin’ summer kabobs
From savory meat and veggie combinations to sweetly seared fruits and desserts, these skewers are delicious.
more -
Plan an unforgettable family reunion
Ensure that your family has a blast at your next gathering with a unique reunion for all.
more
June 2011
-
Host a lakeside party for family
Here are a few tips to make your party at the pier or beachside gathering the highlight of your summer.
more -
Unique Father’s Day ideas
Make time this year for dear ol’ dad. Think about something he loves and work up a fun Father’s Day dedicated to it.
more -
Scrumptious burger creations
Add zest to your summertime grill favorites — burgers. Includes new recipes and types of meat.
more
May 2011
-
Unforgettable party favors
Useful, whimsical, and unique party favors can be the ultimate send-away after any gathering. Includes favors that will last a lifetime.
more -
Fun outdoor party lighting
With fabulous outdoor lighting, you can set the mood for your warm-weather fête.
more -
New Memorial Day traditions
Make your Memorial Day memorable with these exciting party ideas, from a roasted pig to wine tastings and a field day for the kids.
more
April 2011
-
Spring Tabletop Ideas to Brighten Your Home
Beautiful and unique tabletop displays will brighten up your home for spring.
more -
Party Invitations to Impress
Pre-party favors, unexpected bling, vintage humor & more! Build anticipation for your party with these innovative invitation ideas.
more -
Plan a Party in One Hour
With a few simple tips, your next impromptu gathering will not only look effortless, it will feel that way too.
more
March 2011
-
Heart-healthy dinner ideas
Nutritional and delicious options from appetizer to dessert
more -
The Allure of Miniature Pies
Take this new dessert trend home with recipes & great ideas
more -
Picture-Perfect Parties: Taking Great Party Photos
Photographers share tips for terrific snapshots
more
February 2011
-
Get Creative with Brownies
Create a work of art good enough to eat! Brownie design ideas to give your taste buds a real treat.
more -
Lomo Saltado Recipe
Take this classic taste of Peru home with a lomo saltado recipe.
more -
The Perfect Valentine’s Day Dinner
From appetizer to dessert, here are delicious (and romantic) ideas to pamper your special someone on Valentine’s Day.
more
January 2011
-
Golf Gifts for Guys & Gals
Great finds include towering cakes to GPS on the golf course
more -
Make This Butternut Squash Soup
The perfect recipe to impress? Serve up this hot dish with a spicy kick.
more -
4 Fun Family Night Ideas
From fondue to flashlight tag, spend time with your loved ones
more
December 2010
-
3 New Year’s Eve Parties That Pop
Don’t ring in the new year the same old way — make your party special! Plus: Unique theme ideas.
more -
Holiday Table Decorating
Spice up the holiday table with a vintage candy buffet, coordinated colors, and even train tracks!
more -
Easy No-Bake Holiday Desserts
Great holiday no-bake dessert recipes include peppermint pie with white chocolate and lemon drop trifle.
more
November 2010
-
Hot Drinks for Cool Nights
Sip something savory this winter with warm cocktails, gourmet hot chocolate, and tasty teas. Plus: Drink recipes!
more -
Is It Cheaper to Rent Your Party Wares?
Rent a tea party. Or a disco ball, right down to a groovy dance floor! Party rentals put the spotlight on your event.
more -
Gourmet Slow Cooking — Really!
Can you take the 365-day slow cooker challenge? Plus: A pumpkin spice latte recipe.
more
October 2010
-
Candied Apples are Back!
Love caramel or candied apples? This classic has gone gourmet with candy toppings and oversized servings. Plus: A caramel apple recipe!
more -
Decorate your home for autumn
Do you know fall’s hottest color? Plus: Seasonal style tips from entertaining expert Kimberly Schlegel Whitman
more -
Host a pumpkin carving party
Love to carve pumpkins? Turn it into a party! Halloween ideas for decorating, dining, and easy cleanup.
more
September 2010
-
Plan a Progressive Dinner Party
Pick a theme and share the cooking and entertaining with your neighbors
more -
Healthy food choices help you get fit for fall
Want an easy apple pie recipe that’s heart-healthy?
more -
Essentials for Planning Your Next Party
Turf on the floor for a soccer party? Score! Tips from expert event designers Jes Gordon and Karen Bussen.
more
August 2010
-
Host a Great Labor Day Party
Great celebration ideas from throwing a block party to organizing an art sale.
more -
An Easy Appetizer Recipe and Ideas for Your Next Party
Chef Bibby Gignilliat shares a small appetizer big on taste.
more -
Outdoor Party Centerpiece Ideas
Dress up the table with fun containers and beautiful flowers.
more
