THE ART OF DRESSING

DRESSING YOUR TURKEY AND YOURSELF FOR THANKSGIVING
There are two crucial components no Thanksgiving dinner can do without; a perfectly appointed turkey and you; the hostess with the mostess. But juggling all of the shopping, decorating, cooking and entertaining can leave you feeling frazzled rather then thankful, especially after having to referee uncle Bob and aunt Jenny who feel they need to boldly share their political views with everyone in attendance. Never fear, with a few simple tips we can help you pull this event off with grace and panache. You will be the master of all the madness.

FIRST THINGS FIRST: THE TURKEY

Before we can get our turkey dressed we have to get it cooked properly which can be stressful even if you are not a first time turkey preparer. Let’s take the stress out of this:
Tip 1 – Get your turkey the Monday before Thanksgiving, don’t wait, this will assure it has plenty of time to thaw properly if frozen.
Tip 2 – Once thawed or if using a fresh turkey let it set in the refrigerator uncovered for a couple of days before cooking. It sounds scary I know, but this will cause the juices to get pulled into the meat of the bird and dry the skin so it will become a beautiful picturesque brown just like all of those photos you see. Yes, it will look shriveled by the second day, DO NOT WORRY, after cooking it will look and taste fabulous.
Tip 3 – There must be at least 25 different ways to prepare a turkey, here are a couple of our favorites:
DRY-BRINED TURKEY
PERFECT ROAST TURKEY

Tip 4- We want the turkey as our centerpiece to look beautiful but just use what you already have; sprinkle around some hazelnuts, cranberries, clementine’s, a little greenery, even kale works, and you will have a work of art with very little expense and effort.

ADDRESSING THE DRESSING

I don’t know about you but for years I have wondered why some people call stuffing dressing. Thanks to this blog I actually took the time to do a little research and discovered that when your bread mixture actually is stuffed inside the turkey if is officially defined as stuffing, when it is prepared as a side dish separate from the turkey it is called dressing because you are using it to dress your plate. There you go, I feel smarter already. We can let our guests worry about “dressing their plates”, as a hostess our only responsibility is making sure the turkey is well dressed; both on the table if we plan to feature it as a centerpiece and then with our prepared side dish. No stuffing, thank you very much, it keeps the bird from cooking correctly, brings the risk of food borne illness and comes out goopy, yuck!
Try two of our favorite dressing recipes:

SAGE APPLE CRANBERRY DRESSING

HERBED CORNBREAD DRESSING

FOOD FRIENDLY FASHION

As a hostess or even a guest we all want to look stylish and pulled together in front of our family and friends but when you are going to be spending 80% of your time in the kitchen and juggling people, plates and pandemonium you need clothing that you feel comfortable in, otherwise you will find yourself feeling awkward and irritable which isn’t good for anyone involved. Here are our favorite tips fro stylizing some comfortable basics from your own closet. Find many of these items and more in our #blackfridaydeals at poshatplay.com, save 70% sitewide on your entire purchase with code BFF at check-out.

MAKE A STATEMENT

A statement piece from your wardrobe is all that you need to take jeans, leggings or a simple monotone dress to a whole new level. What qualifies as a statement piece you ask? It is that item that hangs in your closet you just had to have but probably do not wear very often, example: fur vest, sequined anything, brightly colored jacket or shirt. This is one of those items that immediately draws attention to itself every time it is worn. Today is the day to give it a chance to “come out of the closet” and shine.

Instant Elegance

Simple, Sleek and Refined

 

WHERE TO FIND:
Black Fur Vest
Button Down Denim Shirt
Black Leather Leggings
Black Jeans
Sequin Skirt

ELEVATE WITH ACCESSORIES

No statement piece, no matter, you can also add some flair to one of your closet basics with thoughtfully chosen accessories. We are talking scarves, jewelry, belts, and shoes. We are including shoes here because believe it or not the right shoe can set off an otherwise boring outfit and give it new life. These are statement accessories that scream “look at me” so it is important to pair them with a toned down look.

No heels for this girl, when I need to move and get things done the last thing I want is to feel unsteady on my feet. All of these flats are comfortable without giving up one ounce of style.

WHERE TO FIND:
Lace-up Ballet Flats
Silver Sequined Flats
Leopard Print Flats
Gold Lame Flats

The great thing about a belt or scarf is that they can be thrown on over last minute so you are free to cook comfort and then can easily adorn yourself moments before company walks through the door.

WHERE TO FIND:
Silk Scarves
Leather Belt
Jewelry
Sweater Dress

Regardless of what your plans are for Thanksgiving Day just remember the bottom line is not perfection but gratitude for all of the imperfect people we are surrounded by who make our lives rich by making us laugh, causing us to cry and teaching us how to love the often unlovable part in all of us. HAPPY THANKSGIVING from Posh At Play!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FALL INTO SIMPLE HEALTHY HABITS FOR BODY AND HOME

Just as spring is a time for rebirth, autumn is also considered a transitional season. The weather turns brisk, the leaves on the trees change from dull brown to a firestorm of color,  and darkness settles in a little earlier. For many, it is a favorite time of year, but for others, it can be a trigger to falling off the health and fitness wagon. After all, how can you be expected to ignore pumpkin spice lattes? The key is to set goals BEFORE the new year, not over a drink as the clock strikes midnight.
“Fall … is a great time to start a (health and) fitness program because you’re going to create good habits for the holiday season and the upcoming winter months,” says Justin Price, owner of Biomechanics a personal training and wellness facility in San Diego.
Not only is Fall a good time to plan a strategic exercise regime, but also to change your summer skin care, eating habits, and stress management. Take a look at our four most important “wellness” points you can focus on this Season to help keep you energized, healthy, and happy.

TASTY & TRIM

It’s so hard to resist those spicy pumpkin lattes or warm delicious hot cocoas. Well, you can still enjoy your favorite cold weather beverage. Our helpful tips when you are out:
(1) Use milk (3% milk fat) rather than the heftier half-and-half (18% milk fat)
(2) Opt for the “skinny” version, made with skim milk rather than whole
(3) Forgo the calorie rich whipped cream
(4) Order a small, rather than large

Or, make your own at home with our favorite low-cal pumpkin spice latte recipe:
You need:
1½ cups unsweetened cashew milk or other non-dairy milk
1 tablespoon maple syrup
3 teaspoons regular vanilla
¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
2 tablespoons pureed pumpkin
1 pack Starbucks VIA instant coffee (or favorite brand)

Directions:
(1) Place cashew milk, maple syrup, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice and pumpkin a small saucepan and bring to a simmer
(2) Stir in instant coffee
(3) Transfer to a mug and sprinkle cinnamon on top. Enjoy!

CLEAN HEALTHY MEALS

While we all look forward to Halloween’s scrumptious candies and the holidays’ luscious turkey, ham, and pumpkin pie, there is a way you can still indulge yet stay trim throughout the entire Season. The key is to not deprive yourself so much that you overcompensate later. We like model Gigi Hadid’s motto: “Eat clean to stay fit, eat a burger to stay sane.”
On your regular days, start with a small healthy breakfast like whole grain oatmeal, fruit, eggs, or cereal to kick start your metabolism. Curb your mid-day slump with a healthy salad of greens and protein. Finish the day off with a light dinner of chicken or fish, and vegetables. Maintain this daily routine on normal days.

When you are out on the town, no need to sacrifice your regime. You can still order your favorites, just order dressings on the side, limit heavy breads, opt for lean meats or salads, and stay hydrated with water. Spending a little extra time on what you eat throughout your normal routine, means you can indulge a little on the special days without “falling off the bandwagon.”

KEEPING SKIN CLEAN

As the warmth of summer’s sun fades and we go into the “hibernation” Season, sometimes our skin takes a backseat to the busy-ness of Fall’s activities. With the crisp cool air, skin can easily lose moisture so it is vital to change your daily skin care regime. Take a look at some of our favorite tips from top designers and dermatologists.

AT HOME EYE REMEDIES

The simplest way to look energetic throughout this busy time of year is to keep your peeps bright and alert. While a comforting facial is always beneficial, we don’t always have the time in our busy schedules. The easiest way to stay fresh is with a quick at-home eye treatment right before you go to bed, or just when you wake up. In addition to reducing salt, hydrating with water, and preventing allergens, these are our favorite “quick tips:”

(1)  CUCUMBERS (containing antioxidants and flavonoids): Place a cool slice on each eye and take a rest for 30 minutes. Afterward you’ll feel nice and refreshed.
(2) RAW POTATO SLICES: They stay cool longer and contain an astringent that helps remove the water from under the eyes. Lay over the eyes and reap the benefits.
(3) WITCH HAZEL: Chill witch hazel (a well-known astringent to reduce swelling and redness) and apply a bit to cotton pad; let sit on closed eyes for 5 minutes.
(4) COLD WATER: Refresh your face with a cool water wash first thing in the morning. If your eyes feel extra puffy, dip a washcloth in cold water, squeeze out excess and lay over eyes.

NEW SKIN CARE REGIME

With the fluctuating weather, it is extra important to slough off dead cells and keep skin hydrated against the Season’s uneven temperatures. Make sure you lather up with an additional amount of non-comedogenic hydration. Instead of relying on chemical ridden products, why not make your own easy nourishing face and body scrub at home to use throughout the Fall months ahead:
DIRECTIONS:
In a small bowl mix: One tablespoon of brown sugar
A generous squeeze of honey
A teaspoon of olive oil
Mix until one paste. After removing any makeup, massage this concoction all over your face for a minute or so and then rinse with warm water. (Make a larger quantity for full body exfoliation).

SIMPLIFIED FALL MAKE-UP IDEAS

With the new Season comes new beauty trends. Even though the leaves turn darker and the nights come sooner, that doesn’t mean that make-up must follow. This year, counterbalance warmer colors with a fresh-faced, simple make-up care routine you’ll sure to appreciate, especially on those busy days.

Click her to check out this quick “how to” on daily make-up you can start today:
Fresh Face Look

And when you DO feel like dressing up a bit, just swipe on this Season’s most glamorous lip colors in power reds, 90’s browns, or liquid berry.

BE CALM AND REJUVENATE

During the hectic Season, take a little time to calm, cleanse, and rejuvenate. Our favorite way is through aromatherapy, the most natural way to release stress. The methods of use are what makes aromatherapy one of the most beautiful and indulgent of all the complementary therapies. From vaporizing, to massage, to bathing, to foot baths, there are so many ways to enjoy the captivating aromas of our pure essential oils.

Our favorite way to relax is vaporisation, the most popular and versatile method of use in Aromatherapy. Once the particles are inhaled, the essential oil vapors may alter moods and balance emotions within seconds.

How to:
Fill your vaporiser with water to the level indicated. Add 6-9 drops in total of pure essential oils to the water and light the candle at the base of a Ceramic Vaporiser or switch on your Electric or Ultra Sonic Vaporiser.

Don’t stop with just your home. You can stay calm throughout the day in your car with lemon infused oils to reduce anxiety and stress or revive during the mid-afternoon  slump with coffee or cinnamon reviving scents.

And finally, end the day in peace with a indulgent warm bath. Bathing is the most beautiful and nurturing method of use in the practice of Aromatherapy. All the senses are engaged in this practice and the mind and body are totally relaxed as the pure essential oils enter the body.

How to:
Add 3 drops in total of chosen oils like Rose or Lavender to one teaspoon of Sweet Almond Massage Base Oil and disperse into bath water. Agitate the surface of the bath and then immerse body and relax for 10 minutes.

SIMPLE CELEBRATIONS CREATE LIFETIME MEMORIES

The year would not be complete without the celebrations that fill the Season, creating pockets of joy to last a lifetime. No need for extravagance; let nature take over and provide the perfect backdrop for your Fall party. Whether you are planning a Halloween masquerade, gearing up for Thanksgiving, or hosting a casual get-together, go simple this Season.

Fill a glass urn with pine cones and colorful leaves from the back yard or make a centerpiece with pumpkins from your local pumpkin patch. Enhance your house with cinnamon essential oils for a calm environment, and add a couple of plaid throw blankets over chairs. If the weather permits, end your party with an old fashioned marshmallow roasting and snuggle into your warm blankets for an entertaining evening of fun, food, and fellowship.

Added bonus, hosting your own gathering means you get to pull out your favorite party wear, and stay cozy and warm without having to step foot out of the door. Make it easy on yourself by having guests bring their favorite Fall goodies, and stir together a simple apple cider that young and old alike can enjoy.

Check out our favorite Fall party wear to try:
“Sparkling” Black Sequin Pullover Sweater
“Pullover” Pale Blue Knit Sweater
“Miranda” Novelty Floral Lace Crochet Sweater

In this hectic time year, you can find ways to detox and decompress throughout your daily activities. Whether you opt for a “skinny” latte, relax with a natural scrub, overhaul your makeup routine, or calm with essential oils, enter the Season refreshed and revived rather than tired and stressed. Look for ways to get out and enjoy the fresh crisp air and the colorful changes in nature, inspiring you to try a few new things this Fall. Comment below and let us know which refreshing ideas appeal to you!

Remember no matter what we here at Posh at Play always encourage you to
BE YOU, BE FABULOUS, AND ALWAYS BE FEMININE.

HOW TO STAY COOL IN SUMMER’S HEAT

With Monday being the official first day of Summer, it’s time to start preparing for the hot weather ahead. No matter which region you live in, there are bound to be some hot times ahead. But don’t fret! We’ve gathered together our favorite “chill” Summer tips that’ll keep you refreshed and revived all Season long. From fashion to food to drinks to fragrances, take a look and start feeling cooler already.

HOST A POOL PARTY

On the hottest of Summer’s days, why not take the opportunity to host your own pool party. Not only will everyone cool off, but it’s a good time to catch up with your best friends and have a little fun as well. Be sure to include lots of floats for young and old alike, and stay cool and fresh in your favorite patterned print romper paired over your favorite Summer swimsuit.

Our favorite Summer Party wear to try:
 “Aliza” Printed Rayon Romper
“Iara” Handkerchief Shorts Set
“Cabana” Teal Bikini

STAY HYDRATED

Whether hosting a party, having a friend over, or indulging yourself, be sure to stay hydrated with cold, refreshing beverages throughout the Season’s hottest days. While we all know that nature’s chilled water is always best, dare to have a little fun now and again with some tasty alternatives. And why not dazzle in style as well in your favorite cool cotton tank sundress.

Additional  cool “hostess” Sundress options to try:
“Adelaide” Pink Jersey Dress
“Romantic” Ruffled Floral Sundress

Our favorite unique Summer “adult” beverage is Captain Morgan’s Guava Nectar drink:

Recipe: 1.5oz grapefruit rum
1.5oz Goya guava nectar
2oz club soda
0.5oz lime juice

Throwback to Summer fun as a kid at your favorite amusement park with homemade frozen lemonades or spice things up with a “Blue Hawaii” direct from the Hilton Hawaii Village. Click below to get the recipes:

Frozen Lemonade
Blue Hawaii

You are sure to be the “hostess with the mostess” in a cool, flowy maxi this Summer. Look for dresses made with sheer silk or soft cotton to stay cool thought the day as you entertain your guests.

Our other favorite Maxi Dress options to choose from:
“Brea” Yellow Silk Chiffon High Low Dress
“Billie” Coral Pink Satin Maxi
“Sonnie” Pastel Pink Strapless Twill Dress

GET OUT OF THE KITCHEN

On a hot summer day, the last thing you want to do is heat up the kitchen. We suggest making cold salads and dishes throughout the Season to keep the house cool. Start with personalized seven layer dip and chip cup appetizers, layering refried beans, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, cheese, and freshly diced tomatoes on top. Take advantage of Seasonal fruit at your local market, and fill ice cream waffle cones with freshly cut melons, berries, kiwi, apples, and whatever else appeals to you.

Next, serve a luscious cold Mexican chopped salad tossed in a light vinaigrette and packed with nutritious  iron, vitamin C, iron, and potassium. Not only will your taste buds have a party, but also you won’t have to work twice as hard for that perfect “bikini” ready body.

Click here for the full recipe
Summer Mexican Chopped Salad

CREATE SUMMER SCENTS

Make your living space fresh and cool with sunny scents of Summer paired with romantic floral arrangements. Fill a simple mason jar or vase with water and freshly cut lemons, adding your favorite Summer posies for fun yet easy DIY interior decor.

Not only can you keep your home smelling fresh, but you can also refresh yourself 0n the hottest of Summer’s days. Create your own cool mist spritzers, perfect for everyday or when you are hosting an outdoor Summer party. Simply fill a spray bottle with water and julienned cucumber or a few sprigs of mint and lavender. Bonus: cucumber is known for its hydrating properties, and lavender and mint are reputed insect repellents.

HEAD TO THE BEACH

When you feel like getting out of the house, pack up some sunscreen, a good read, a  floppy hat, sunglasses, and a cooler filled with plenty of cold beverages to stay hydrated against the Summer sun. Now is the perfect time to show a little skin and bring out that Summer body you’ve been working on in a chic ivory lace crochet swimsuit.

Want a little color? Try these other swimsuit options:
“Flight of Fancy” Purple Ruffle Bikini
“Guilty Pleasures” Teal Crochet Swimsuit

Bring a touch of romance to your Summer beach look and pair your lace bikini with a cool off the shoulder romper or lace tunic.

Other favorite “lacy” cover up options:
“Prisca” Ivory White Lace Chiffon Dress
“Naomh” Strapless Maxi Dress
“Azaria” Lace Trimmed Kimono

COOL OFF AT THE LAKE

If your region doesn’t offer a sandy beach, another alternative  is a visit to your local lake. Whether you decide to bunk overnight in one of the lake houses, tootle around in your own canoe, or enjoy a good read while soaking your feet, you’ll bask in the beauty of nature while cooling off against Summer’s hot sun.

Stay cool while chillin’ in a casual “Cabana” drop waist dress or flowy blouse over your swimsuit, just in case you decide to go for a dip.

Other “lake view” Summer options? Try a chic shirtdress, cool, stylish, and free.
“Femi” Flutter Crepe Navy Dress
“Cabana” Silk Cotton Shirt Dress
“Eda” Lace Trimmed Tunic Dress

THERAPY SHOP

Finally, at the hottest part of the day when the heat becomes unbearable, head to your local indoor mall to cool off and do a little retail therapy. Give your air conditioning at home a break while you enjoy the cool open air at the mall. Grab an ice cold tea and take advantage of the Summer sales.

Don’t go at it alone. Don your favorite “boyfriend” jeans and take your best girlfriends with you.

Consider these other cool denim options as well:
Citizen’s of Humanity’s “Gibson” loose fit shorts
Joe’s Jeans’ Floral Denim
J Brand’s Cut Off Tangerine Shorts

On Summer’s hottest days, stay cool while shopping the sales in a pretty cotton floral sundress or breezy silky shorts.

Consider these fun options as well:
“Time to Turn Heads” Coral Cotton Sundress
“Denise” Sleeveless Printed Tank Dress
“Livia” Printed Crepe de Chine Shorts

Whatever you have planned as the temps rise, we hope you follow our easy breezy ways to stay cool this Summer. Don’t let the heat get you down. Kick back, stay cool, and be fashionable this Season, and let the good times role.

And remember we here at Posh at Play always want you remember that no matter what
Be You, Be Fabulous, and ALWAYS Be Feminine.

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY

While everyone is focused on this week’s holiday, it is not too early to start thinking about the other big holiday right around the corner, New Year’s Eve. Whether you prefer hosting or attending, going out or staying in, big party or intimate, start planning your New Year’s Eve activities now. End the year making memories to last a lifetime and ring in the New Year with class, style, and panache.

SEQUINED PARTY DRESS

Forgo the usual little black dress for New Year’s, and sparkle and shine in some “bling” this Season. Try sparkling sequins for a change of pace, perfect for New Year’s Eve. We love the great selection of Hale Bob sequined cocktail dresses, paired with chic Jimmy Choo heels for a sparkling holiday night.

Or for a change of pace, go with gold sequined leggings paired with chic black pumps and a cream silk Hale Bob blouse. Either way, you are sure to shimmer and shine this New Year’s Eve in sequins.

PARTY CART

If you are entertaining at home this New Year’s Eve, we love the fabulous idea of a rolling “bar” cart. Grab a cart from your local flea market or garage sale, and decorate with checkered paper to cover the trays. Next, fill your cart with an ice bucket, a selection of glasses, mixers, drinks, and small party horns to pass around to your party guests. A perfect solution to keep your guests partying all night long.

LAST MINUTE DRINK IDEAS

Didn’t have time to prepare for New Year’s Eve? For an elegant and simple solution, grab ordinary champagne glasses and fill each with rock candy. Place glasses on elegant silver trays on the table for an elegant centerpiece as guests arrive. Just before midnight, fill glasses with champagne for the toast, and re-fill as needed after the toast. To select the perfect champagne for your party, see this easy to use champagne guide for the perfect brand of bubbly.

For non-drinkers or children, a fun solution is to fill champagne glasses with cold frothy milk and top off with homemade cookies or gourmet cookies from Harry and David. New Year’s entertaining can still be fun and festive without all the stress and hard work.

NEW YEAR’S EVE DECORATING

When thinking of decorating for New Year’s Eve, try fun and festive touches through the house, uncomplicated yet elegant. Collect your favorite gold and silver variety of candles on top of a silver tray and light for a glittering and cozy touch. Collect gold, silver, and black masquerade masks from your local costume store and fill into clear bowls. Add a collection of gold party horns and confetti poppers stored in glass goblets for your guests at midnight. You can even make your own custom confetti party poppers with this easy DIY party popper guide, filled with surprise candy.

DATE NIGHT NEW YEAR’S EVE

Reserve your spot NOW at your favorite restaurant spot for you and your date this New Year’s Eve for an intimate way to ring in the New Year. If the thought of being with a bunch of people seems overwhelming, grab your date and celebrate with a romantic dinner out. It can be as simple as dinner out, or look for New Year’s Eve celebrations complete with dinner, dancing and a champagne toast at midnight. Check out your city’s favorite New Year’s Eve spots at Gayot. Let someone else do all the work this New Year’s and relax your way into 2015.

CITY CELEBRATION

If you are lucky enough to live in New York City, Times Square is THE place to be on New Year’s Eve with the Ball drop at midnight. Las Vegas also participates in city-wide activities with the Strip transformed into one big block party and a choreographed fireworks display at midnight. Check out great deals at Innkeeper Vegas. Most cities across the US celebrate New Year’s Eve with special events and activities. Check your local listings, gather friends and family, and celebrate New Year’s Eve with a night out on the town. Even if you do not want to go out on New Year’s Eve, plan a “Ball Drop Party,” invite friends and family, and gather around for a televised version of the midnight ball drop.

  

NEW YEAR’S EVE HAIR

New Year’s Eve is the perfect time to try something new and fresh for the coming New Year. Try our top three hairstyle pick’s popular this year. To get Diane Kruger’s chic ballerina bun, seen across the runways this Season, spritz hair with a shine spray like Kerastase. Sweep hair into a high ponytail at the crown, twist hair into a topknot, and secure in place with embellished jeweled hairpins. Complete the look with a spray of Bumble and Bumble holding spray. For Amanda Seyfried’s “classic Hollywood” sideswept waves, popular on the Red Carpet this year, set hair into hot rollers, tousle hair, and touch up with a curling iron. Complete the look with a spritz of TIGI Bed Head Masterpiece Hairspray to last all night long. Finally, we love Taylor Swift’s embellished jeweled hair accessories. Try the great selection of hair jewels at Anthropologie or Nordstrom. Try something new this New Year’s and go for a new hairstyle look, sure to dazzle and shine.

NEW YEAR’S EVE APPETIZER TRAY

If you are running out of time and are not sure what to serve your guests for New Year’s Eve, we’ve got the perfect solution. Grab a selection of your favorite chips and crackers, and serve them in style in a classic top hat. Serve a variety of different dips in martini glasses. Rather than rely on the basic ranch or bean dips, surprise your guests with new dips found at Caramel Potatoes. For a sweet tooth, also serve Stacy’s Cinnamon Sugar Pita Chips with a sweet dip to satisfy everyone on your New Year’s Eve guest list.

NEW YEAR’S EVE TABLE SETTING

Rather than dealing with the restaurant crowds, you might opt for a more formal dinner on New Year’s Eve at your home. We love this elegant yet festive table setting idea perfect for the celebration. Set your table with a white table cover, set with silver place settings, and a champagne bottle service as your centerpiece. Find easy to print “Clock Printables,” print, and insert on your silver chargers placing a clear glass plate on top for a stylish yet elegant New Year’s Eve table. Place a party horn and party popper at each setting for the big midnight toast and you are ready to celebrate in style.

DIY NEW YEAR’S EVE GLITTER GIFT BOTTLES

For a simple yet glittering New Year’s Eve party favor or decoration, decorate your own mini-champagne bottles to give as gifts for your guests. With Mod Podge, finishing spray, and glitter, you’ll have the perfect New Year’s Eve gift for your guests. You can also decorate your champagne and wine bottles for a glittering and festive centerpiece or beverage table display. Follow the simple Glitter Champaign Bottle Tutorial and you’ll be ready to greet your guests with style.

 

Whether you opt to stay in or party the night away, try some of our New Year’s Eve ideas and suggestions for this year’s celebration. Check out more creative ideas at our Pinterest Board New Year’s Eve. As you prepare for your New Year’s event, cherish the memories of the year and look forward to the new things to come. We thank you, our readers and followers, for the support and look forward to hearing more fashion ideas and tips from YOU in the coming year.

HAPPY NEW YEAR from Posh at Play!

HOLIDAY TRADITIONS OLD AND NEW

  

With the Holidays right around the corner, we here at Posh at Play are getting into the Holiday Traditions, both old and new. The Holidays are great time to reflex and reflect on not only the past year, but also the new year to come. It’s a time of giving and sharing, and a time to reflect on how and why we do the things we do. What are the Holiday Traditions that bring us “home” every year, and what are the new Traditions to investigate to make each holiday season special and unique? We want to hear from you our readers. What are some of your favorite “must-have” Holiday Traditions and what are some new Traditions you would like to try this Season? To give you a head start, we’ve gathered a list of Old and New Holiday Traditions we love. Take a look and let us know what you think.

     

ADVENT OR ELF ON THE SHELF?

A much loved Holiday Tradition for young and old alike is counting down the days until Christmas Day. A favorite is the Advent calendar, tracing back to19th Century Britian, with the first known published Advent calendar produced in 1851. One door, featuring a Christmas image or small present, is opened per day starting December 1st, and continuing  through the 24 days of December, building anticipation and excitement for Christmas Day. We love the beautiful selection of Advent calendars found at Byers’ Choice Lmt. A newer Holiday Tradition many are embracing is the “Elf on the Shelf,” a tiny Elf doll who is sent from Santa starting December 1st to monitor good behavior each day of the month. Each night, the Elf flies back to the North Pole to report to Santa all he has seen and heard and “reappears” in a new hiding place each day. The fun is to find where the Elf may be hiding each new day. Which countdown to Christmas do you prefer?

REAL OR ARTIFICIAL CHRISTMAS TREE?

A winter tradition going all the way back to the Egyptian times, decorating with a tree during winter symbolizes the hope for Spring ahead. Right after the Pumpkin Patches start disappearing after Halloween night, the stands start stocking up their lots with a variety of real Christmas pine trees. A much loved Holiday Tradition is to pack into the car and shop for a Christmas Tree at the local stand a few days before Christmas. With the fresh smell of pine, a real Christmas Tree warms the home instantly. Some, however, prefer the easy-does-it set up of a pre-lit artificial Tree, for easy set up and take down. Artificial Trees are also suitable for those allergic to pine trees or those who love to decorate early for the holiday. We love the beautifully realistic artificial Christmas trees at Balsam Hill in a variety of sizes and styles. Which do you prefer? Real or artificial?

       

TRADITIONAL OR THEMED HOLIDAY COLORS?

Red and green, the traditional colors of the Holidays, harken back to the Roman times when wreaths made of holly and ivy were given as gifts, looking forward to the promise of Spring ahead. Today, many still decorate homes, offices, and buildings with the traditional colors of Christmas from wreaths, to Christmas trees, to table settings. However, a current trend is to decorate around a Winter Theme, from “Frozen,” to Candy Cane Lane, to Winter Wonderland, complete with ornaments and decorations surrounding each specific theme. What is your favorite decorating Holiday theme?

  TRADITIONAL OR MODERN CHRISTMAS TREE?

A favorite Holiday Tradition is the the iconic Christmas tree. Decorated with ornaments and lights, the real or artificial pine Christmas tree is seen all over the cities from homes to offices to schools to stores. Many love to host a “Christmas Decorating” party in which guests help decorate the pine tree  over socializing and snacks. A newer modern Holiday Tradition is using tree branches, lights, or other creative ideas to form a “Christmas tree” shape made out of other materials. Some even use the “Charlie Brown Christmas tree” with one lone red ornament and a tree branch as the centerpiece of the Holiday Tree. Do you decorate with a Christmas tree or go the modern route?

 

CHRISTMAS DINNER OR CHRISTMAS MOVIE ON CHRISTMAS DAY?

On Christmas Day, a favorite Holiday Tradition is to wake up early, open Christmas presents, and then prepare for a big Holiday Christmas dinner with family and friends, enjoying spending time with loved ones over a feast of wonderfully prepared food and drinks. Check out the delicious and easy Christmas meal ideas at Food & Wine. In recent years, “family” has come to not only include relatives but friends, extended family, or those with no family to go to over the holidays lending to new Christmas Day traditions including going to see a movie on Christmas Day, as well as other festive activities like shopping, going out to a restaurant, or site seeing. Film companies often release their year’s top hits into theaters on Christmas Day. Check out IMDB’s film releases for Christmas Day and choose which flick you will want to enjoy.  How will you celebrate this year, with a big home cooked meal or try something new and unique, but just as festive?

  

BING CROSBY OR IDINA MENZEL?

A great Holiday Tradition is holiday music blasting through the home and car all Season long, making things merry and bright. There are so many wonderful Christmas and Holiday albums worth enjoying throughout the Holidays. Enjoy old classics like Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas” for a good old fashioned Christmas season, or go modern and pick up Broadway star Idina Menzel’s “Holiday Wishes” filled with updated versions of all the holiday classics. Which one will most likely be filling your home this Season?

  

HOMEMADE GIFTS OR STORE BOUGHT GIFTS?

Traditionally, all presents used to be handmade toys, cookies, soaps, and woodcrafts that friends and family would spend time working on and keeping a secret from their loved ones until Christmas Day dawned. The holidays have since turned into a haze of shopping madness with stores pushing to buy more, more, more. This season, consider crafting your own homemade lotion, soap, cookie recipe, or other creative ideas found at Buy Nothing Christmas. If you do decide to buy your gifts at the store, thinking creatively, not expensively. Think from the heart and choose a gift that will mean something from you to them. Whichever way you choose to give gifts this year, remember the reason for the season.

      

OLD FASHIONED SLEIGH RIDE OR ICE SKATING?

For a festive winter out, couples used to wrap in a cozy wool blanket, cuddle together, and take a ride in the sleigh, enjoying each other and the crisp winter weather. Some climates still allow for an “old fashioned” sleigh ride through the wintery white snow just like days of old. Instead of complaining about the frosty winter weather, consider enjoying a ride through the snow. A more modern twist is enjoying a skate for two, or gather the entire gang for a glide around the rink. Many cities today set up outdoor skating rinks during the winter season in the downtown areas. Check your local city for details and enjoy some fresh Winter Wonderland. Which festive Winter activity do you find most appealing?

Holiday Traditions old and new are always a fun, festive part of the Holidays. Traditions warm our hearts and bring joy and cheer to end the year on a happy and thoughtful note as excitement builds for a fresh, new year to come. Whether you prefer old traditions like Christmas trees and handmade gifts, or new traditions like seeing a movie on Christmas or listening to Idina Menzel, make traditions a part of your festive holidays. We’d love to hear YOUR ideas on what the holidays mean to YOU. What are YOUR favorite Holiday Traditions from the ones we’ve listed? What Holiday Traditions do YOU love best?

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM POSH AT PLAY.