A Shot of Brandi

All you need is your own imagination, So use it that's what it's for

2012-02-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

Award season continues with the Grammy’s on Sunday. Thisis one of the more interesting (to say the least) red carpets. It’s basicallywear whatever you want night (remember play wherever you want day in slow pitchsoftball? Lol).

We are going to see wild hair, wild hemlines, wild shoesand wild accessories. And I anticipate some musicians celebrating no pantsSunday.

I was feeling a little themey (when am I not?), so I decidedto put together some kitschy musical items. Hey, this is better than meattempting to sing you all a song! You do NOT want that.

AsosMusic Note Dress

BetseyJohnson Piano Top

Modcloth MusicClutch

ModclothOn the Record Pouch

AsosGuitar Necklaces

NapsRock via Etsy

PianoScarf from American Apparel

ModclothBrass Dress

TurntableWatch

MusicNote Glasses

Coco Wine-o

2012-02-09T09:00:00.000-05:00

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True store.

Last weekend I’m walking through my local liquor storewith 4 bottles of alcohol (three wine, one vodka). The sample lady sees me andsays “What would you like to try?”

WHAT would I like to try? Not even a “WOULD you like totry something?” Clearly she knew that I was here for the party.

Well thankful for my liquor sample lady, I was able totest out something that I’ve been meaning to share with you all – CHOCOLATEWINE.

When I first heard about this concoction, I almost asked sample girl if she had an IV that could just inject me with this stuff. I mean, if this isn't going to send me to Betty Ford (and Reader Dana already hasn't), then I don't know what will.

However, after trying it, it seriously tastes likeBaileys, but with less alcohol content (12% in this wine vs. 14% in theBaileys). I wasn't that crazy about it. The hubs may be the better judge of this. Sample lady wasn’t any help to explain how this liquid is possiblymade with grapes. So I consulted my BFF Google.

I found a blog called Ladieswith Bottle. They explain that there are two types of Chocolate wine –Port-style wine infused with dark chocolate OR wine mixed with cream andchocolate (I think I had that option – again, Wine lady, NO HELP). If you don’t trust the Ladies with Bottle, TheWashington Times says similar things!

Much like a Baileys, I’m seeing that you can mix thechocolate wines with vodka to up the booze content.

Another true story. I had so many bottles of wine in myhands, that I forgot what brand I sipped. I THINK it was a PA made wine, butregardless, here are a few options.

· CullarniVineyards and Wine (PA)

· Cocoa di Vine

· Choco Vine

(photo source)

These are my obsessions.

2012-02-08T22:25:00.004-05:00

This Godivadisplay at the InStyle + Warner Brothers Golden Globes party got me thinking.How AWESOME would it be to have a TRUFFLE BAR at your next party. Forget thecandy that looks pretty, this chocolate stuff is where it’s at. Yeah, it’s evenmore pricey than the glittery rock candy, BUT just think of your guestsenjoyment when they walk home with a plethora of chocolaty goodness. Oh and toportion control your guests, by smaller take-home boxes.

Yes. It’s clear. Ilove paper dolls. So of course I’m in love with these personalized paper dollsfrom Etsy seller Jordan Grace.

Seriously. Howcute and SIMPLE are these marshmallow heart Valentine’s from Bloom Designs!? Basically you buy thePeep marshmallows, put a stick in them, throw them in a plastic bag and voila!You are Martha freaking Stewart!

Doughnuts are thehot new sweet treat trend at parties. So how cute is this doughnut themedshower from ABeautiful Mess? I think this may need its own post soon!

World Nutella Day

2012-02-06T22:25:00.003-05:00

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One of my goals this year was to eat more Nutella. So Imust report, that so far, it’s been pretty good. I’ve enjoyed two Nutelladishes in January.

Well guess what yesterday was? It was World Nutella Day.Not even like US Nutella Day, but WORLD.

So in honor of the day, I thought that I would share somerecipes, all from NutellaDay.com,so you too can experiment more with Nutella! (FYI – this site has some SERIOUSrecipes – like seriously a lot of them!!)

NutellaStuffed French Toast

NutellaTruffles

MiniNutella Cheesecakes

DoubleChocolate Malted Milk Cookies

NutellaPeanut Butter Cookies

NutellaSmores Bars

Mighty Ducks

2012-02-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

Seriously. Al Gore was right. Like shits off with the weatherand like Global Warming is a real thing (#godhelpthepolarbears)

The weather has me smh (FYI – that’s new lingo forshaking my head). But yet, something doesn’t feel right about looking for thesnow. Don’t we typically NOT want it to snow?? I guess it’s really true – you don’tmiss something until its gone LOL.

Regardless of the weather, this winter a new boot iscreeping around fashion sites. The Duck Boot!

The SanFrancisco Chronicle wrote a story about the emerging duck boot trend whichis apparently coming from college campuses. According to L.L. Bean, a popularmaker of the boots, sales have gone from 150,000 boots four years ago to400,000+ this year!

Olivia Palermorocking the trend (source)

If you are looking to hop on this duck boat, here aresome options.

1. L.L.Bean

2. SperryTopsider

3. BBRoar

4. RalphLauren

5. TommyHilfiger

What do you think about this trend? Would you rock it? I’mjust not sold yet, but I get the functionality of it!

Don't Drink The Water

2012-02-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

My loyal followers know that I'm a bit anti-Valentine's Day. I like all the pretty red and pink hearts and of course the candy and cute cards.

What I don't like about Feb. 14th is the feeling that it evokes for single people AND the act of buying gifts for your loved one. Oh and who can forget that awkward "should I buy this person that I just started seeing something" feeling.

HOWEVER, if you are looking to do something different for the day and say buy something for a friend that could use some flowers, may I suggest these adorable cocktail-themed floral arrangements from 1-800 Flowers.

This collection has been around for awhile, but they've recently expanded to more styles and colors.

Before you buy, be sure to search coupon codes!

File This Idea

2012-02-01T18:00:00.000-05:00

Let’s save this idea for August whenfootball season officially starts up again.

I was browsing the Balloon ManiacsWebsite (don’t ask) and I saw a category for “diamond balloons.” Sparklesfilled my mind, but when I clicked on the link, I discovered it was diamondSHAPED balloons in multi colors.

Well then that took my mind right tothe Pittsburgh Steelers logo! Wouldn’t these balloons be fun to hang from yourcar to help friends spot your tailgate? Or just to have on hand at your nextSteelers’ party!?

Only seven more months until theseason starts again!

Pooper Bowl

2012-02-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

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Ugh. I’m feeling so non-excited for the Super Bowl.

No, I’m not being a party pooper just because my Steelersaren’t in it. I guess it’s just because it’s New York vs. the Pats.

Pats fans are passionate, but Brady’s been in this gameso many times that story line is just feels like Groundhog Day (pun intended). And sorry reader Trish, I hate lookingat Brady and his awful hair. Then there's the Giants. I really don't have much to say about the Giants. Yawn.

So since I’m bored with the bowl, but you may not, I’mgoing to recycle some old ideas just in case you are celebrating the big game.

· Simple BowlParty

· IfYou Can’t Beat Um, Look Cuter

· JalapenoPopper Dip

· Klondike RootBeer Floats

· Sue’sItalian Beef

Oh and here are some ideas from other peeps:

· Food& Wine

· Epicurious

· CelebrationShoppe

· Food ideas from TheNest

Oh and ladies – one tip. Don’t fluff up the Super Bowlparty. All those ideas on Pinterest that are like DIY mini bags of chips…seriously.Think of the expression on your guys face when you hand him that mini bag witha homemade glitter football sticker. Just.don’t.do.it. This is not a time to go girly.

Popping Up in Paris

2012-01-31T08:00:00.000-05:00

Last week, beyond gorgeous images from Paris Haute CoutureFashion Week have hit the web – making me more and more giddy each day.

Aside from the dashing dresses, unexpected designs (um, JeanPaul Gaultier channeling the late Amy Winehouse?) something that caught my eyefrom three events was BALLOONS!

At the launch of the Karl Collection for Net-a-Porter, modelscarried black and white Karl balloons.

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For the MeadhamKirchhoff show, the designers created a candy shop, complete with pastelballoon structures.

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The French Magazine Graziapassed out dog balloons outside of the shows (and how cute are the streetteam’s outfits!?)

So if the French couture designers are making balloonschic, does that mean that they will be less of a party decor faux pas now!?

Trendspotting 2012

2012-01-30T20:55:00.000-05:00

It’s part in my nature and part of my job, but I reallylove trendspotting. All of these massive lists come out and list what will befashion, food, etc. trends for the year.

I was doing some thinking about trends and here’s whatI’m seeing:

· S’mores. Thisgooey treat is still hot. You willsee s’mores stations at more parties and s’mores as favors at more weddings. Alsoon the rise – Nutella. Oh and I have a super fun S’mores

· PinCrafts:People turning online pinning via Pinterest into real world crafts and cookingwill explode.

· School.More people are going back to school. It doesn’t matter the age or if theperson has a degree, people are sick of their careers and want a big change.

· Moonshineis “in.” FINALLY something hip that Appalachia has been doing for years! I’llnever forget my first time with moonshine. Unmarked bottle from an old maninside Mountaineer Field. I wouldn’t have had it any other way (Lynn Lai mademe do it, mom).

· Oreos.Did you know that Oreo is the number one cookie in the world? I found thatcrazy! Anyways, I see people using more and more Oreo cookies in recipes. Samewith Rice Krispies.

· Marryoke.Yep. First it was the bridal party dance, then it was the surprise flash mob.Now, according to the WashingtonPost, it’s Marryoke. The wedding videographer captures people signing thesame song all night and mashes the video together. A lip dub if you will. I’mwaiting for the trend of weddings to stop becoming a performance to end ; )

· FoodTrucks. Still popular.

· SandwichShops. We will continue to see gourmet chefs open up classy sandwich shops(a la Grahamwich Chicago)

· Batuka issome form of exercise that is going to be the new Zumba.

Party Like its 1992

2012-01-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

Some fashion expert said this week that everything thatwas old 20 years ago, is always new again. That fashion runs in a 20-year span.

If this holds true, we are currently channeling 1992.

Since the internets weren’t really around back then, I consultedmy friends at Wikipedia and in 1992 the fashions of the 1980’s were stillpresent – spandex pants, denim button down shirts, penny loafers and NEON.

Isn’t that crazy!? All things that are popular right now.Chambray shirts, leggings (still), black leather jackets – even Keds are alwaystrying to make a comeback.

For fun, here is me around circa 1992. This was one of mymodeling days (um, my mom signed me up – I think everyone was picked). There isso much about this look that is all wrong, yet probably right at the time. Thewind breaker, the stop watch hanging from the zipper, the two toned socks. And Imean who cannot notice what the hair stylists did by thanking things to a wholenew level by doing a French braid around my head and injected neon jelly braceletsaround my head.

As a lover of all colors, if I had to pick one trend (vs.the explosion that was on my body in ’92), I’d go with NEON. I love the boldcolors out. As Vogue calls it – a fashion rebellion. Times still suck andrather than wear all black and be depressing, we are saying eff you – I’m goingto wear sequins and bright colors!

Without further rambling, here are my favorite neon itemsout right now:

· Earringsvia Etsy

· Christopher Kane Clutch via Saks(lower-priced imitation-ish thing here)

· Blazervia Gap – Kudos to Gap for itspartnership with Pantone. I may or may not own this whole collection by the endof the season.

· Chair via ABCHome

· Shoe via Zara

· Sunnies viaNordstrom

· Dress via Topshop

· Dress via Asos

· Shoes via J.Crew

· Dress via Outnet

· Marc Jacobs belt via Net-a-Porter

· AG jeans via Piperlime

Will someone PLEASE wear the Jason Wu neon to the Oscars?I’ll be waiting!!

I'm Like the Ringleader, I Call the Shots

2012-01-25T09:00:00.000-05:00

I’m still playing my little Word of the Day game asinspiration on Pinterest and Tumblr. Yesterday, I had a fun word that producedsome great ideas. So great, I had to share here on my Mothership socialnetworking site.

The words was:

Here are some ideas that I discovered.

For parties, don’t just think about decorating the floorand tables. Turn things upside down with these fun umbrellas hanging fromstrings! (source)

Cute Circus party invitations that feature tickets and abig tops! (source)

I’ve got this big thing going on right now with black andwhite strips, so obvi I love this cotton candy display. (source)And check out this cotton candy topped cupcake from RealSimple.

Speaking of those stripes – how fun, chic, and playful isthis black and white striped tent!? (source)

The perfect Circus party favor? Animal crackers! (source)

I LOVE this wallet-friendly table top décor from OrientalTrading. It’s a big top tent for your table! Not only does sit totally playto the them, But it will cover your treats!

Bourbon & Bowties

2012-01-24T22:01:00.000-05:00

This blog is girly. I get it. It’s rather difficult to besomeone that you are not. And I, my friend, am not a man (although sometimes Ido think and talk like one).

But the other day, I was thinking of two words for aparty and I thought it could be a manly and fun theme – “Bourbon &Bowties.”

While things are rarely original anymore, I did a quicksearch and discovered people are already doing this for charity functions, butlet’s just roll with this party as best as Shot of Brandi* knows how – tototally theme it out. This is how I would execute it.

And how crazy is this fate – I started writing this poston a Sunday and on Monday, my new Wine Spectator came in the mail (yes, I’m asubscriber lol) and it had bourbon as its cover story! FATE.

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Décor

· For me, I would recycle my handmade moustachesand emergency bowties from my Oscar’s birthday party for this bash. Both weresuper easy to make with some craft store specialties like foam paper, sticks,ribbon, hot glue and pins.

· Provide directions on how to tie the perfect bowtie. You can put them in a cool frame like the one above.

· For the invitation, there are a lot of bowtieones out there – but this is a popular baby boy shower theme. I say hijack thetemplate, but make it more man vs. baby.

· Use bourbon barrels to decorate! You can usethem as tables or a base to a bar (see pics below).

· Buy some airplane mini’s of each flavor and giveyour guests their favorite brew as a favor! You can even print some fancy “OfficialBourbon Taster” certificate (or something more snazzy than that)

sourceand source

Drinks

· Okay, this is the most important part of theparty. After all, you are basically staging a bourbon tasting here.

· For the bourbon beginners, I’d say pick avariety of brands (vs. variety of years). Let’s go with the six that are on theKentucky Bourbon Trail.

o FourRoses

o HeavenHill

o JimBeam

o MakersMark

o WildTurkey

o WoodfordReserve

· Get some bourbontasting glasses.

· Provide sheets for guests to grade the bourbonson:

o Appearance(color)

o Aroma(swirl that glass)

o Entry(swish it around in your mouth)

o Finish(what happens after you swallow – and I hope it’s not puke)

Food

· Here are some recipes for your fete:

o Bourbon Chicken

o BourbonTruffles

o BourbonCupcakes

o Bourbon ChocolateMilkshake

o BananaCream Pie with Salty Bourbon Caramel

Extras

· Surprise your guests with awesome bourbon facts,like:

o Bourbonis America’s native spirit – it’s one of the only spirits actually invented inthe USA

o RyeWhiskey came from Europe to the Americas, through Pennsylvania and then landedin Kentucky where it was mastered.

o Eachbottle of Maker’s Mark is hand-dipped in red wax – no two bottles are exactlyalike

o KnobCreek Bourbon is named after Abraham Lincoln’s hometown

o JimBeam isn’t named after the guy that invented the bourbon. His great, great grandfatherJacob Beam actually created it in 1795! AND Jim Beam is still made with Jacob’srecipe to this day!

· You may notice on the bottles that there is adifference between whisky, whiskey and bourbon. Here’s a cheat sheet:

o Whisky:Scottish English, British English and Canadian English

o Whiskey:Irish English and American English -also made of at least 51% rye, malted rye, malted barley or wheat

o BourbonWhiskey: made from mash that consists of at least 51% corn

o Thereis also Tennessee Whiskey – this is Jack Daniel’s, George Dickel, Collier &McKeel and Benjamin Prichard’s. All of these are bottled in Tennessee.

· Note that there are American brands that use theScottish spelling. When that happens, they were typically created by a Scottishperson!

P.S. – I know a lot of these facts because I worked withbourbon brands for three years – including some of the ones listed above ; )

Oh and boys - I know what you are thinking. Still too girly. OH WELL!!! Ha.

Let’s play a game. I’m feeling a little uninspired withparty themes. Almost everything has been done (although I haven’t featured it –I’ve seen it. Trust me). SO you want me to play out a theme? Email me. I’llcreate it!

Put the FUN in Fundraising

2012-01-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

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So near the end of 2011, I decided that I needed to read thenewspaper more. I mean, my office gets four papers delivered and seriously noone reads them. So being one of the elder people in our group, I decided totake on the reading challenge. Let’s just say that recently, I’ve been failing.

However, I took a few with me on along car ride and pulled out a Wall Street Journal story about fundraising.Specifically, all of the things that people try and sell you at work to helpsupport their kids. Did you know that $1.7 BILLION DOLLARS is spent in the U.S.on products for school and youth ground fund-raising annually?

It got me thinking. A year back, Shot of Mom asked me if I hadany creative fundraising ideas. I sent her a few things that were actually onthis list. Their organization went with something pretty cool – a dipfundraiser from Serendipityjust outside of Pittsburgh.

So if you are looking for a creative fundraiser or just aregular idea, here were a few things on the list that I would totally considerbuying from the November 16^th Wall Street Journal:

· Candles

· Cheese and cheesespreads

· Coffee

· Cookies

· Cookie dough

· Greeting cards

· Holiday ornaments

· Magazinesubscriptions

· Meat snacks – editor’snote – I may not buy this, but it sounds delicious lol.

· Plants and flowers

· Sauces

· Stationery

· Window & walldecorations (could be cool if they are local sports or high school teams)

And don't forget that it's that time of the year and those little Girl Scouts are lurking with their cookie orders!

Sundays with Sue: Little Beer

2012-01-22T19:21:00.001-05:00

This afternoon I was over Sue’s and she kept telling meabout “Lil Beers.” I just wasn’t understanding this concept, so she had torepeat it to me a number of times. So I thought, I’ll explain it all to youtoday as part of Sunday’s with Sue.

Lil Beers apparently has nothing to do with Beer. It’s adrink served in a short glass to resemble a little beer.

Drinks Mixer lists the recipe for Little Beer as follows:

· 1 oz of Licor 43 liqueur

· Cream (although Sue thinks it's Baileys)

What is 43 liqueur you ask? Well I asked the same thing!

Licor 43 is a sweet, bright citrus, vanilla Spanish liqueurwith a combination of 43 ingredients including citrus and fruit juices, as wellas herbs, spices and vanilla. Yowyza. This stuff dates back to the time of the Romans (even though itsSpanish? Maybe because its headquarters are in Spain).

So if you see this bottle or are feeling cozy with your bartender– ask for one of these next time you are out and want to try something new. ORif you are at the Bronze Hood in Robinson, PA, tell ‘em Sue told you to orderone!

Wine Cave

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

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In the December Issue of Martha Stewart Living, there wasan article titled “Making the Case,” that focused on eight budget-friendlywines to buy for the holidays. A number of different blends were featured andthat got me thinking – what are some different varieties of wine to have onhand that could please any guests taste?

The Martha story mentions the flowing types of wine for aholiday stockpile:

· White

· Value house white

· Value bubbly

· Rose

· Value house medium red

· House rich red

· Easy-drinking red

· Organic red

Will Lyons wrote a November 2011 story for the WallStreet Journal on starting your own wine cellar. Will suggests that a goodcellar will have three (or four pending on how you look at the story)categories of wine:

1. Wines for a variety of drinking occasions andpalates. These wines are to share with friends

2. Wines for aging

3. Wines for investment & to simply own

The wines for various drinking occasions should be lightand easy to thrown down. Buy Sauvignon Blanc, white Bordeaux, Pinot Grigio andI say thrown in a Cab.

The batch of aging wines should include somemedium-strength wines that can paired with meats at dinner parties. These canaging wines can be aged for five years or more with the goal of the wines toimprove with time. Think Bordeaux, Burgundy, Australian and New Zealand Syrahsand Portuguese reds.

Finally, for investment wines, Lyons suggests high-endBordeaux (vintages from 2005, 2009 and 2010). Hesays if you buy a few cases, you can always sell one – and it could pay off thecost of the other two!

(Sources:Martha Stewart Magazine – December 201,Wall Street Journal – November 2011)

Spice Girl

2012-01-18T08:00:00.000-05:00

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In the Strip District of Pittsburgh (it’s a strip of foodplaces – not strippers. Although, there is a strip club around there….humm)

Anyways, where was I?

In the Strip District of Pittsburgh, there is a spicestore called Penzey Spices.

I love me some store pamphlets, so I picked up one on myway out of this store and boy was I amazed. The store’s newsletter is like aspice bible. It provides so much background on a plethora of spices and how youcan use them in your cooking and baking. Here are some of the best tips Ilearned…

· BayLeaves: These are perfect for adding to a chicken, pork roast, turkeyor ham. Use 2-3 leaves and remove after serving.

· BakingSpice: Apparently this stuff adds flavor to hot cereals, pancakebatter, cake, brownies, muffins, pies and coffee cakes. Add up the spices inthe recipe and just use the same amount of Baking Spice.

· CelerySalt: Good for roast beef, pot roast, steaks on the grill or in ameatloaf. I prefer this rimmed around a bloody mary!

· CayenneRed Pepper Powder: This can be used in place of whole chili peppers ina barbecue sauce and chilly.

· CrushedRed Peppers: I ate some of these tonight! I am obsessed with puttingthese on pizza, but Penzey also suggests adding them to spaghetti, omelets andbeans.

· ChiliPowder: Great for Mexican dishes.

· Cloves:A must for studding hams.

· Cinnamon:An essential spice – you can put this in everything you bake and even somethings that you drink – like hot chocolate! Cinnamon sticks are also great forstirring hot drinks!

· Garlic:I won’t tell you what to use this for because it is gross. LOL.

· JerkPork Seasoning: Great for Jamaican-style pork chops or tenderloin onthe grill.

· Mustard:Traditionally used for pickling, canning and sausage making.

· BlackPeppercorns: According to Penzey, if there is one spice that should bein your kitchen, it should be pepper. It adds the greatest amount of flavor todishes!

· Lemon-PepperSeasoning: Most commonly used to season fish.

· Oregano:Put this on baked chicken, pork and fish. It can also be added to a simplesalad dressing or marinade.

· Paprika:Adds a flavorful, colorful touch to meat, fish and poultry.

Some other spice tips:

· Keep whole spices for four years and groundspices for two.

· Do NOT store your spices near a heat source – ontop of a fridge, stove, dishwasher, microwave or sink. Also keep your spicesout of direct sunlight.

Penzey’s also sells cool gift boxes, like:

· Bakers Assortment: cinnamon, coco, baking spice,vanilla

· Original Mini: cinnamon, ground pepper, garlicpowder and flavor seasoning

· Some Like it Hot: hot chili powder, spicy hotcurry powder and northwoods fire

· Spicy Wedding Shower: Cajun seasoning, Englishprime rib rub, lemon-pepper seasoning, garden salad seasoning and weddingcharms

(Source: Penzey Spices )

Sound The Party Horns!

2012-01-17T22:09:00.001-05:00

January 15th is a monumental day my readers.

Five years ago this week, I started thislittle blog.

(vintage Shot ofBrandi header)

Reading back on my past posts, not a lot has changed. Istill love Sharpies. I still lovepolar bears and cupcakes.

I guess a few things have changed – I learned how to addhyperlinks to my blog posts, I moved cities, I now have more than 700 uniquereaders (in total – not monthly)

So in the last five years, what were the top five Shot ofBrandi* posts? Here they are readers:

5. Poppin Bottles– My first VLOG! I hear that the readers like the videos! I may need to addmore. I think they just like reader Lindsay!

4. Election Day:2008 – the recap from attending the election night rally in Chicago

3. HappyHallow Brady Birth Steelers Rule Election – one of the more longer titles, Ithink Brady has a little Shot of Brandi fan club that increases blogreadership! Maybe we can get him to become a contributor.

2. Push it RealGood: This one is all thanks to Reader Lauren – one of my loyal readersfrom the start. She posted a link to Shot of Brandi on Facebook and I got a tonof new readers! THANKS LAUR!! And hi new readers!

1. My 101 in 1001.I think people were checking in on my list ; )

I want to thank all of you for reading my blog, emailingme ideas, sending me private emails about posts and pictures of crafts that I’veinspired you to make. I really do this as a hobby to capture things I like totalk about and knowing that some of you look forward to my posts keeps megoing. So seriously – THANK YOU.

Here’s to five more (and many more after that) years!

#Pinning!

2012-01-17T21:16:00.001-05:00

The new hot social networking site right now isPinterest. I’ve mentioned this site here before, but I thought since most ofyou have found my little secret by now, for those of you that haven’t, I’lltell you why you need to get on here fast.

What is Pinterest?

· Let’s pretend that I have a corkboard orpinboard in my office. I fill it with photos of recipes, fashion, party ideas,etc.

· Now imagine that you can take things from mypinboard and put them on your own pin board.

· Okay, not take that concept and put it allonline.

That’s basically Pinterest.

You create an account, create some boards and then startpinning. You can pin your own photos, pin photos from the web (be sure youprovide a link to them) or repin other people’s pins.

This site is devilishly addicting to visual people likeme.

Why You Need toBe Here:

· This site has become my go to for blog pictures,ideas, recipes and party ideas. You can search the top box for ideas and addthem to your own board so that you can come back to them.

· Also, this has become the go to for a lot of myfriends that are wedding planning.

· This is the hot buzz brand marketing word / siteright now, so expect to see a lot of your favorite brands popping up soon!

How Do You GetHere:

· Email me or leave your email address in thecomments and I’ll invite ya! I think the site is still running on an inviteonly method. I didn’t have any friends on here when I joined, so I had to signin via Twitter and then wait a few days and some magic Pinterest gods approvedme. Thanks Pinterest gods!

Fashion Friday: 2012 Goes IN with a Bang

2012-01-13T09:00:00.000-05:00

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2012 has been jam packed with new fashion news. Here aresome of the highlights.

· In less than one month, the nextrun.to.Target.now collection comes out – Jason Wu. I’ve mentioned this Lady Ofav here a number of times and now his collection will be available to those ona budget. Preview the collection here.I hope someone wears thisWu to the Golden Globes.

· Speaking of Target, the company unveiled a newdesign model called “The Shops at Target” which will offer in-store boutiquesfor smaller shops around the U.S., such as sweets from The Candy Store – a San Franciscocompany. (source)

· Fashion from the Critics Choice Awards via Wire Image.I LOVE all the neon pink on the red carpet. I still remember Brooklyn Deckerdoing the neon pink trend first at the 2011Met Gala.

· Spring 2012 wearable fashion trends from GlamorMag. LOVE seeing fashion rebelagainst the recession by wearing bold colors and sparkles! Maybe a pink shortssuit for Easter? #ballsy

· More spring trends from Harpers,CNN,and Elle.

· Speaking of Elle, isit sad that I havea hugestyle crush onElle Fanning?

· Whitney Port is staging her first NYFashion Week show.

· The Daily Mail picks the mosticonic outfits of 2011. I agree with all of them.

Shoot the Cake

2012-01-12T22:56:00.000-05:00

Looking for something to buy all of those couples thatgot engaged over the holiday season? How about some Wedding Cake Vodka.

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From Pearl, the makers of a number of vodka’s comes thissweet spirit with an adorable name. And with all of those annoying decisionsduring the wedding planning process, your friends will need the booze.

If you are planning awedding, the site has some cute cocktail recipes like “The Toast,” “SomethingOld, Something New,” “I Do!” “Blushing Bride,” “Groom’s Cake,” and “DrunkUncle.”

Maybe couples can forgo the cake and just do a shot!

Oh and speaking of shots, I've also heard of a cool wedding tradition. The bride and groom get two shot glasses. They don't know it, but one has vodka, one has water. Whoever gets the vodka gets the upper hand in the marriage.You can probably do this with tequila (or any white spirit) too!

I Don’t Want to Grow Up, I’m a Pottery Barn Kid

2012-01-11T23:10:00.000-05:00

Recently I purchased some goods from Pottery Barn Kids –for gifts, not me sillies – so now I am on its catalogue mailing list.

Flipping through my most recent book, I stumbled uponthis lamp.

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I mean – LOVE. Pink. Rosettes. Ghost plastic base. It’s arecipe for Shot of Brandi* obsession!

Am I too old to buy thisfor my pink-themed office? I think know the answer....Maybe I'll just make it ; )

Tech Tuesday: iBrandi

2012-01-10T21:25:00.003-05:00

So the hubs and I are slowly become i users. We wereextra good this year and Santa brought us an iPad (and he even dropped it offearly – Christmas Eve! My parents say hevisits the good kids first – wink, wink).

I’ve been dedicating some time on learning how to workthe pad and downloading some apps. I researched which ones people liked, so Ithought I would share with you what I uncovered. There is only three now, but Iexpect some more soon!

· Evernote:This is fun for me. With Evernote, you can save your ideas, pictures and noteto the Evernote site. Then, you can access your documents anywhere – just bylogging in to Evernote. So say you want to save your to do list here from yourcomputer – you can and then access it from your phone or ipad wherever you go! It’stotally a digital notebook.

· Wordwith Friends: Yep. We play. Think Scrabble, but you play digitally withfriends that also have accounts. I also recommend Angry Birds and Tetris.

· Epicurious: This is agreat recipe app! You will never have to think of things that you can cook fordinner, because this thing will totally help you find something. AND there is ashopping list feature! I just wish it could cook the meal for me too. Maybesoon ; )

So help a sister out – what are your favorite apps forthe iPad??

Sprouting Up New Hobbies

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

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With work and travel in overload during December, thehubs recognized that I needed a calm date night. So he arranged a nice dinnerand a trip to the Phipps Conservatoryhere in Pittsburgh. (He’s a keeper).

That all sounds super romantic, right? Well little didthe hubs know that my parents took me to a haunted house at Phipps in 4^thgrade and I’ve been scarred since.

For those of you that don’t live in Pittsburgh, Phipps isa Conservatory. Aka a house of plants. Some years back, Phipps hosted a hauntedhouse during October where people would seriously dress as plants and jump outat you.

During our recent visit, every time I heard a littlenoise, I would jump. I also kept thinking there were people in the plants.So a romantic holiday light show visit turned intoextreme paranoia.

This is going somewhere.

So I love to grab books and pamphlets from places and I pickedup one on the Phipps. This little book was full of inspiration and classes.

So if you are resolving to try something new or changecareers in 2012 (and live in Pittsburgh), may I suggest the PhippsFloral Design Program. Yeah, it’s a little pricey, but if you’ve purchasedflowers lately, they are pricey!! Just think – after taking this course, youcan make arrangements for family and friends (to save some cash) OR start yourown thing on the side. You don’t’ need to complete the full program for a fancycertificate – there are single classes on things like vase arranging and centerpieces!

Sunday's with Sue: An Apple Dip A Day

2012-01-08T20:42:00.001-05:00

True Sue Story.

“Ata tailgate, I was cutting up apples and the girls next to me looked like I wascrazy – who eats apples at a tailgate. Then, I pulled out this dip and theyimmediately said ‘what is that?!”

Thatwas Sue’s Apple Dip.

Thisthing is addictively good. It’s like dipping apple slices into a something thatcoats them with caramel apple goodness.

I wanted to share this now - you know, for all of you that are looking for "healthy" new year's recipes ; )

Heavenly Caramel Dip

· 2-8ozcream cheese

· 1-CupPowdered sugar

· 1-tspvanilla

· 1large tub of Marzetti Caramel dip ( microwave for 40 seconds)

· MiniChoc chips

· Whitechoc chips

· Toffeechips

Mix sugar, vanillaand cream cheese.

Spread in shallowdish.

Nuke caramel for 40seconds.

Spread on top ofcream cheese mixture.

Addchocolate chips

Party Like its 2012

2012-01-07T16:16:00.002-05:00

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I don’t want to hear any of you say that you are bored.2012 is FULL of excuses to have a party! Start planning now!

JANUARY

· 4^th – 20^th Anniversary ofESPN going on the air (I discovered this during the WVU ass kicking of Clemson– the broadcasters were running out of things to talk about).

· 9^th – Put on your crown, it’s thebirth of Kate Middleton!

· 14^th – 60^th Anniversary ofThe Today Show

· 15^th – 5th Anniversary ofShot of Brandi* - I mean…WOW. Celebrate with what else – a shot of brandy!

FEBRUARY

· 6^th – The Queen of England willcelebrate her Jubilee. Dust off those Royal Wedding decorations and throwanother British fete.

· 9^th – NY Fashion Week starts and runsthrough the 16^th.

· 27^th – National Polar Bear Day andthe birth of this blogger! Coincidence? I think not!

· 29^th – It’s a leap year folks!Celebrate the plus day! Disney is staying open for 24 hours!

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MARCH

· 1^st – Beiber is legal. He’s no longera “Baby, Baby, Baby” because on this day he turns 18. Go buy some cheesy décorand play the Biebs on repeat.

· 12^th – On my honor, I will try…tocelebrate the 100-year anniversary of the Girl Scouts! As a former Brownie (and#1 cookie seller in my troop), I may make some brownies to mark this day.

· 17^th – St. Pat’s is on a Saturdaythis year! Can’t wait to break out my sequin shamrock vest and the hubs newIrish coffee mugs!

APRIL

· 4^th – Take Me Out to the Ball Game –it’s the opening day of Baseball. Break out that tailgating gear!

· 15^th – My hear will go on – it’sthe100-year anniversary of the Titanic sinking.

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MAY

· 7^th – the famous MET Ball. One of the biggest fashion / red carpetnights of the year – next to the Oscars.

· 27^th – In 1961, the first blacklightwas introduced. Why not celebrate with a party in someone’s basement with atemporary wall for people to write on with neon markers. And just like college,you can turn this into a graffiti party and write on each other!

JUNE

· 5^th – The first drive in theateropened in 1933. Hit up a local drive in near you!

· 20^th – First day of summer!

· 23^rd – The Playboy Mansion is hostinga Kandylandparty. Not on the list? Throw your own party!

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JULY

· 20^th – The Dark Knight Rises hitstheaters. Thank god they are not hitting my local roads anymore ; )

· 27^th - Summer Olympics start (and runthrough August 12^th). Beer Olympics anyone?

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AUGUST

· 15^th - this would have been the 100^thBirthday of Julia Child. What about hosting a dinner party with all Juliarecipes?

· 16^th – Party like a virgin becauseMadonna was born on this day! I mean how awesome would it be to have adress-like-Madonna party?

SEPTEMBER

· 6^th – NY Spring 2013 Fashion Weekstarts and runs through the 13^th.

· 20^th – National Punch Day. So eithermake a delicious punch and have friends over OR punch someone. Decisions….

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OCTOBER

· 20^th – Sweetest Day. Get somecupcakes and cookies stat.

· 25^th– National Denim Day. Why notuse this as an excuse to make this centerpiece.

NOVEMBER

· 6^th - If you haven’t already hadenough, it’s an election year! Plan a party and stock up on 4^th ofJuly sale items for your bash.

· 13^th – Turn around…every now and thenwe have a total solar eclipse. And on Nov. 13^th, we’ll have one! Toobad this isn’t one of the THREE 13ths that will fall on a Friday in 2012. Yes,that’s right, we will have THREE Friday the 13ths.

· 16^th – Sorry Tiwards, the Twilightseries of movies comes to an end on this day. Save up on Vampire décor for thisparty.

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DECEMBER

· 21^st – Party like a rockstar on theeve of this day because according to some, this is when the world will end. Iplan to do as many shots as possible because I won’t wake up to see thathangover. It’s been nice knowing you all!

SoMe Magic Words

2012-01-03T22:53:00.002-05:00

For the past few months I’ve been experimenting with twonew (to me) social media sites – Tumblr and Pinterest.

Pinterest is basically an online corkboard – a site inwhich you would take images that you like and pin them up to the board forinspiration. But this is all online – you take user photos that you like andpin them to your own personal boards.

As I mentioned, Tumblr is another site to blog from, butit’s way more visual and way less wordy than other forms of blogging.

Both are very appealing to me because I’m a super visualperson.

Posting to both of these sites is quick. During breakfastor lunch, I’ll just search something that I’m thinking about and pin it or postto Tumblr.

Well for 2012, I’m going to something a little different.I came up with 250 words of things I like. Things like sequins, glitter,cupcakes, sun, beach, etc.

The list goes on. I then cut them into little pieces.

When I feel like blogging, I’llpick out the name of one of these things out of a jar and that’s the magic wordof the day.

So things I post to my Tumblr and Pinterst accounts will revolvearound the magic word. If I do a search and don’t find something, well then Iwon’t post!

(the scientific sparkle jar)

So let’s start making magic. Today’s word is:

This is no lie. It's just what I pulled from the magic jar!

Check out my Tumblrand Pinterst for the images I pulledfor the day!

Oh some other things to note: I’ll only use one word forthis year, I most likely won’t post daily and while some words are seasonal(i.e. Christmas) I may pull them at different times of the year (i.e. summer).

12 for 12

2012-01-03T21:27:00.001-05:00

Happy 2012 readers!

I love that the first word that I’m publishing for theyear is happy – because seriously readers. Get Happy. I’ve talked to a numberof you this week and your all Grumpy McGrumpersons. Cut it out. Yeah theholidays are over, yeah you probably started a fad diet or detox and that’s whyyou’re being crappy and yeah the weather sucks, but what’s so different eachJanuary!?

I don’t like to make resolutions. They are too difficultto keep and always involve weight, exercise and budgeting and what’s fun aboutthat? NOTHING.

So I came up with my 12 for 12 - the Shot of Brandi*version of resolutions. My (in my head)Best Friend Lauren Conrad said that she is making a monthly calendar reminderon her phone to check in with her resolutions – maybe I’ll do that too. ThanksLC!

In no particular order:

1. Eat MoreNutella – I dabbled in this fad near the end of 2011 and I’m smitten. Ilike the idea of adding something not so hot to my diet vs. cutting everythingout!

2. BB becomesiBrandi – It’s time I befriend more Apple products. Santa brought theSmithkowski’s an iPad and I’m officially joining the iPhone world at some pointthis month. What’s next, a Shot of Brandi* App?

3. Keep ThingsSimple – In 2011 I found myself saying “keep it simple” a lot and Ireally like this motto. Don’t overcomplicate things. Work, home life,friendships – keep it simple. And if it isn’t, consider cutting it out of mylife!

4. Network –I read in a magazine that you should get some vitamin D each day at lunchbecause people start to feel sleepy around 1:00 p.m., so a little D can helpduring lunch. Rather than sit in my cube and scarf down some soup, I’m going toget up, get out and network more. The goal is a monthly lunch with a friend orcolleague.

5. Back, Back,Back It Up – On a quarterly basis, I’m going to back up my computer,photo and song files!

6. Just Say No –B and I are people persons. Therefore, we sometimes have a difficult timesaying no to dinners, drinks, parties, shots...So in 2012, I’m going to say nomore. The goal here is to only go out one weekend night vs. 2.

7. KeepLearning – I’m officially old in saying that sometimes I really likelistening to lectures or taking a class at work. I plan to look for more waysto continue learning. It may be a craft class, a computer class or an extratraining at work.

8. Play theLottery – I mean the luck for the lotto should be in my genes, right? Thatdarn Powerball is always so high, why not take a $2 chance!?

9. Be MoreDigital – In 2011 I became an early adapter on Pinterest and my Kloutscore went up. Today we were talking Clouds at work and I’m not an Evernotemember, but what can I do to get less or more out of these emergingtechnologies? I’d also like to do more things online – read more magazines andkeep files online. For a while I was all “don’t let magazines die,” but my mailtends to get lost or not sent, so screw the mail.

10. Be LessDigital – Ha. Talk about hypocritical! I need to spend LESS time on acomputer. I tend to spend all day at work banging the keys and then at night(while blogging!). I need to spend less time starting at a screen!

11. Work On MyRelationship with Facebook – Right now I’d say my relationship withFacebook is “Complicated.” I had a breakdown this fall when I found myselfbeing too curious about a girl that I hardly spoke to in high school’s life. Ithought – why do I really care? I wouldn’t have cared in high school, why am I checkingher page to see what she posts and looking at her family vacation pictures? Ithought about ending my Facebook account overall, but I wouldn’t get to seethose pictures of my friend’s and family’s new kids. Rather than end myFacebook account, I decided to hide all of the status messages and updates ofthe people that I really didn’t care about, but I think in 2012, I may find abetter way to use the book.

12. Talk Less,Do More – self explanatory ; )

Okay 2012, let’s do this!

Gift-a-Day: Regift.

2011-12-25T10:30:00.001-05:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS READERS!

(card from #1 Reader Lindsay)

I said that I would post everyday for 25 days straightand here we are – day 25. I’m posting today for all of you desperate people outthere still trying to wrap up some type of gift. Although, I do anticipatereader level to be zero today. Some of you are most likely celebrating thearrival of Santa and the birth of baby Jesus, you are hungover, visiting tostalk the site to see what the hubs bought me or reading this blog because itwas delivered to your inbox.

So today’s suggestion – RE-GIFT.

You heard me. Re-gift. Take something out of yourstocking or a gift card and wrap it up again for that person you forgot to buyfor! I mean what else is there really left to do then to make an IOU on somerandom construction paper!

I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas, eat lots ofcookies and celebrate the holiday with family and friends.

Gift-a-Day: Shop the Gas Station

2011-12-24T11:45:00.003-05:00

Your time is up bitches! But you know I wouldn’t leaveyou hanging without another gift suggestion! Today’s advice – shop the GASSTATION! It’s always open and can be an amazing gift resource!

· Like I mentioned yesterday, go for the giftcards!

· Lottery tickets and scratch off tickets

· Our local gas station that I’m obsessed with(ask Brady about my drunk adventures there), has FLOWERS! The perfect gift!

· In some areas, 7-11 sells wine! Yes, wine!

Oh and this picture? Look at the fun things that you canget in CVS! (circa 2009)

Gift-a-Day: What's Left?

2011-12-23T17:31:00.002-05:00

Still have someone on your list to buy for? Well shit. Atthis point, I almost don’t even know what to tell you. I mean I’ve been tryingto help you for 23 days now!

Here’s all I got left for ya:

· Gift Cards: Everyone sells them and a lot ofplaces are open through tomorrow.

· Malls are still open tomorrow. But I don’trecommend going there unless you have something in mind – maybe gloves, a hat,scarf, etc.

· Food: Cookies, candy, liquor? etc.

My brain is FRIED. I’ve got my sequins on and I’m outreaders ; )

Gift-a-Day: Holiday Spirits

2011-12-22T08:00:00.000-05:00

When in doubt, buy liquor. That’s one of my go-to’s. Ialways feel like one can’t have too many bottles on hand for an impromptucelebration or party.

Here are some fun suggestions!

· Original Gangster Brandy: I mean,this one is a must for any Shot of Brandi* fan! While Brandy isn’t for thefaint at heart (lol), I just love the name of this one! I like to think my rapping skills (or wrapping skills this time of year LOL), can earn me the title of OG. I also love the XO on thebottle (totally a Chi Omega thing!)

· DisposableFlasks: LOVE this idea from Restoration Hardware. Why didn’t someone thinkof this earlier!? You can sneak the flask into the game and then throw it away!Genius!

· LayerCake: I don’t know if I’m ready to talk about how I got my days mixed up andmissed Reader Meg’s cookie exchange and have 72 chocolate chip covered oreos inmy fridge. And how I would have got to see Reader Molly. UGH. I teared up,drank wine, laughed, and then ate a cookie. I digress. This is the bottle ofvino that I was going to take to the party. Maybe I should have just gone in mysweats!? LOL. Anyways, Layer Cake is agood dessert wine!

· SwansonVineyards: They have the cutest names – Lucky Night, Thrilled for You,Expensive – so cute.

From Vintage Shot of Brandi*:

· CupcakeWines

· St.Germain

Gift-a-Day: Handmade Arcade

2011-12-21T22:13:00.001-05:00

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We are in red (and green) alert! 3ish days left to shop!

Today I want to highlight some DIY gifts that you canwhip up if you are just sick of the stores.

· CD ofMusic: Each year my special VIP readers anticipate the release of theBrandi*’s Holiday Favorites CD. Back since maybe like 2005, I’ve been burningholiday jams onto a blank recordable CD. I create a fun label and tie it with abow!

· BakedGoods: Cookies, truffles or cupcakes. Enough said.

· FramedPictures: Easy, right?

And some ideas from past SOB posts:

· BeadWreath

· FlipFlops

· Vodka

· DecoratedBottles from Shot of Mom

· Playdough

Gift-a-Day: 4 for 4 days left!

2011-12-20T23:49:00.005-05:00

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Four shopping days left!

Here’s my best advice. Don’t go to the mall withouthaving something in mind before your trip. It’s a waste of your time and awaste of parking spot for others if you are just going to “hang out.” (thatmeans you 14 year-old-girls at the mall on Sunday).

So what does that leave left to buy if you didn’t benefiton one of those last minute online delivery deals?

What about a subscription? There are a lot of fun onesout there in which you can just print the certificate. Some examples:

Stationary - I LOVE this! From Merci Beaucoup, you can join a monthly stationary club

· Magazines- you can print subscription certificates via Magazines.com or Amazon.com.I actually went to Barnes & Noble to buy one of those magazinesubscriptions as a gift (maybe for a reader!) and they don’t sell them anymore, so online is the best way to buy them!

· WineClub – You can do a 3-month membership through Williams-Sonoma OR PAWine & Spirits. Note that the Williams-Sonoma club doesn’t deliver to PA!Darn Control State (aka the state controls the liquor)

· Movies– Yeah, Netflix has a bad rapright now, but it’s the biggest name on the market.

· Candles:How cool is this – Yankee CandleCompany offers a candle of the month club! (It looks like the link isn’t working right now, but stalk or call thissite if you are interested!)

I also joined a new monthly club awhile back and I can’twait to tell you about it soon!

Gift-a-Day: D-Day for E-Shopping

2011-12-19T21:14:00.001-05:00

So here we are. You have five shopping days left until it’s officially Christmas Eve.Or if you live in Pittsburgh, you basically have four days because the Steelersare on at 1:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve.

There are still some sites that are offering guaranteedarrival by the 23^rd, so here are some gifting options from who’sstill shippin’!

~~· FTD & 1-800 Flowers: When in doubt, sendflowers. I’m sure people will appreciate the floral centerpiece. Especially ifyou are absent from the celebration.~~

Do NOT order flowers from either of these places. They have horrible customer service. Shop local. Call your local florists ; )

· Bloomingdales:Time’s ticking here. You’ve got until 4 a.m. to order these adorbs sparklegloves.

· BestBuy: You have until 10 a.m. on Tuesday to place an order from Best Buy. MayI suggest an iPod Shuffle? They are awesome for working out and are under $50!

· Nike:This one is fun – Nike knows its dude customers and is offering guaranteeddelivery by Christmas Eve if you order by Thursday at 11:59 p.m. Coupon code:SWOOSH. Oh and someone on my list may or may not be getting this shirt ; )

Gift-a-Day: Babybook

2011-12-18T14:00:00.000-05:00

I’m at that age where Facebook has become Babybook.

One thing that I’ve seen in a number of nurseries is thisadorable, personalizable chair form Pottery Barn Kids. It comes in a number ofcolors to match your favorite tot’s room.

While it may be a little late to get one of these made intime for the holidays, it’s good inspiration for baby showers, births andbirthdays.

Oh and as an extra bonus – I’m going to a baby showertoday and part of the gift is THIS book – Piggy Goes to Prada! This beautifullyillustrated book is filled with fashionable nursery rhymes like “There Was AnOld Lady Who Lived In Her Choos.” LOL.

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Gift-a-Day: Come Fly With Me

2011-12-17T18:06:00.002-05:00

I’m doing a bit of traveling today, so I wasthinking – what are some things that I use while traveling that could be goodgift options.

· LuggageTag: I remember when I went on a hunt for a luggage tag and ended updisgruntled that they all cost like $15-20. So I printed my address on hot pinkpaper and took it to Office Max and got it laminated. Now that I’m a big girlbusiness traveler, I think it’s about time for an upgrade. This Tiffanyblue tag is under $100 and bright enough to make your bag stand out on theluggage carousel.

· OneNight Roller Bag: Flying from Pittsburgh means you are more than likelyrequired to connect in another airport before reaching your final destination.That also means small planes with small overheads. To save time and space whenyou are only traveling for one night, a small roller bag is a necessity andsomething that I’m in the market for. It helps free my hands vs. traveling witha duffle. This VeraBradley is the perfect size, but not the perfect price. ( I’ll wait for asale!)

· ComputerBag: I LOVE my computer bag. It’s by a brand named Belkin, which is kindafunny because it sounds like he high end Birkin lol. This thing is so fabbecause it isn’t a heavyweight like other computer bags out there and it’s easyto get your computer in and out through the security line. Oh and the price!? Unbelievablycost effective! (PS – I bought mine atTarget – I wouldn’t normally encourage Walmart shopping, but this is the onlyplace I could find it online.

Gift-a-Day: Posh Pages

2011-12-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

While the name Laurence King Publishing may notmean much to you right now, after you read this post you will realize that thisLondon-based publisher produces some of the most stylish books on the shelf.

If you are looking for a gift for your fashionablefriend, look no further to the books produced by Laurence King. Here are someof the popular titles that make great coffee table books (p.s. I know shopping time is ticking so note that youcan buy most of these in book stores and randomly I’ve seen some at places likeUrban Outfitters and Anthro).

100Years of Fashion Illustration

· As the book summary says “A visual feast of 400dazzling images.” Do you even need more?

100Ideas That Changed Fashion

· This book explains how some fashion trends wereinvented. This kinda reminds me of how I recite that scene from Devil WearsPrada where Meryl Streep tells Anne Hathaway that she is wearing an uglyturquoise sweater because it was on runways years before.

MyWonderful World of Fashion

· This book encourages creativity withillustrations

FashionFace-Off

· This is my fav! A game that allows players to playiconic clothes off against each other.

Gift-a-Day: Shaken N Stirred

2011-12-15T08:00:00.000-05:00

For that cocktail-ista on your list, how cute is this LillyPulitzer Shaken N Stirred necklace? The 36 inch chain features three charms,including a lime and martini glass. This is also another option under $50!

Gift-a-Day: Sweet & Savory

2011-12-14T09:00:00.000-05:00

Last year a colleague gifted our staff with a box ofsalted caramels. I don’t discriminate when it comes to sweets, but let me justsay that I was skeptical about the combination of salt, caramel and chocolate;however, I became an addict at first bite.

Salted caramel is totally my flavor of 2011. Thank you toStarbucks to furthering my addiction.

Today’s gift is the candy that started it all –SaltedCaramels from Edward Marcchocolates based right here in Pittsburgh. Shop local my friends!

Gift-a-Day: Eye Do

2011-12-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

Iswear. Every time you log onto Facebook this time of year, someone new isengaged. It’s like November starts engagement season!

Ifyou are looking for a gift for that newly bling wearing friend, may I suggestthe GoingAll The Way Romantic pallet from Too Faced. This collection features prettyeye shadows with cute names like “I do,” “cut the cake,” “honeymoon” and “everafter.”

Gift-a-Day: Hello, Hello Baby, You Called?

2011-12-12T20:16:00.001-05:00

I remember one of my favorite Christmas gifts growing up.It was my own phone line. You see, I thought this was the coolest thing ever.If that phone in my room rang, I knew it was for me – and not my parents. I hadmy own answering machine. My friends wouldn’t need to worry about how early orlate to call. It was like getting a mobile phone before they existed.

I miss those days of talking to my friends on my Legophone (Yes. This phone). It’s nice to have that phone receiver.

So naturally, I’m a fan of one of the hot electronicgifts out there. It’s a mobile phone receiver. They come in some pretty radcolors and are under $50!

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Gift-a-day: Goldwear

2011-12-11T21:55:00.001-05:00

Did you ever think about the fact that almost all silverwearis silver? I mean I guess that is where the name came from, but it’s a simpleitem that has really never changed from its basic design. Yeah, there are somenew handles and the spork, but the knife, spoon and fork are the same. (I’mtalking the real deal here and not plastic).

Well via the Sweet Thing Blog, I discovered GOLDsilverwear, or rather in this case utensils! From Cambridge SilverSmiths, this goldwear comes in a fancy case - andthey are currently on sale. How festive would this be at your holiday table?

Sundays with Sue: Caketail

2011-12-11T21:47:00.001-05:00

As you can imagine, Suehas been hitting the holiday party circuit. While dining with some colleaguesat The Cheesecake Factory, the group decided that a red velvet cheesecakecocktail would be delicious. So after some web searching, Shot of Mom realizedthat someone beat her to the bar with this recipe.

Red Velvet CakeMartini

· 1 1/2 oz 3 Olives Cake Vodka

· 1/2 oz vanilla vodka

· 1/2 oz dark creme de cacao

· 1 tsp Hershey Choc syrup

· Splash of creme.

· 2 drops red food color.

Mix all in shaker with ice. Drain intochocolate drizzled martini glass.

Sue says, “HAVE YOUR CAKE AND DRINK IT TOO!”

(Shot of Mom foundthis recipe online, but altered it a bit so I don’t have a source)

Gift-a-Day: Games, Games, Games

2011-12-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite gifts to give is that of a board game! Ifeel like you can never have enough. They are the perfect way to pass the nightwith a group of friend. The games keep the conversations going and the alcoholflowing!

I haven’t really seen any new games out, so I thoughttoday I would go with three of my favs.

Scattergories

· This game I simple. You roll a die that reveal aletter and you need to come up with words in different categories that matchthat letter.

Outburst

· So.much.fun. Ask reader Brian how excited I getabout Outburst. Basically there are 10 answers to a category. You need toanswer as many as you can. For example, name Disney movie characters. I like toturn this into a drinking game and you need to sip for the number that you don’tget!

· WARNING. When I tried to find this on the net,all these CRAZY high prices kept coming up. I think my mom got her’s for like$20.

CatchPhrase

· I recently played this game and it was a ton offun. You get a word and you need to give clues until your team can guess theword. You keep passing the plastic thing around and the person who ends with itloses!

The Nutcracker: Act Eight – Spanish Hot Chocolate, Chinese Tea, Russian Candy Canes

2011-12-09T22:53:00.000-05:00

Oh now we’ve come…to the end of the road…haha. This the lastday in the annual Shot of Brandi* gift guide. However, I’ll still be blogging agift a day until the 25^th.

Today is a three in one option -– Spanish Hot Chocolate, ChineseTea, Russian Candy Canes.

SPOILER ALERT! So in the play, Clara becomes a heroine.She saves the prince from that bastard Mouse King. That calls for acelebration, right? Well they throw an around the world party of sorts. Thereis Chocolate from Spain, Tea from China and Candy Canes from Russia. So today, that’s what I will feature!

HOT CHOCOLATE

· This Mexican Hot Chocolate kit from Deanand Deluca is the perfect option. You know, Mexican Hot Chocolate is theoriginal hot chocolate. It was enjoyed by the Mayans and Aztecs (for realz).

· You all know that I’m obsessed with Dylan’sCandy Bar. So for those who want some original hot chocolate, you gotta gowith Dylan’s. It’s too cute and so tasty!

TEA

· I’m an everyday tea drinker, so of course I lovethis adorable TeaForte gift set! I stick to an iced venti unsweet black tea on the weekdays, but on the weekends I brew at home and experiment with some differentflavors.

· Shot of Mom is a big hot tea drinker, so webrought her back some English Breakfast Tea from London. She is now obsessed.We purchased the tea from Harrodsand you can buy it online here.

CANDY CANES

· So I did some searching to find the best candycanes and all that came up was Hammond’s.They are either really that good OR have good search engine optimization (i.e.their name comes up first!).

· Going to be away from family during theholidays? Why not send some flowers to your loved ones! I like this candy canearrangement from 1-800flowers.

Well readers – that’s it for the annual Shot of Brandi*gift guide! I’ve heard some feedback from you all that this may have inspiredsome gift ideas! I hope that it does. And just think – when you haven’t anyinspiration, brainstorm outside of the box. By forcing myself to think in thesecategories, I have some ideas that I wouldn’t have thought of for peopleotherwise!

Cheers!

Gift-a-Day: Crushing on Chevron

2011-12-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

Earlier this year, Missoni made their popular chevrondesigns very desirable and attainable for us average Janes with their Targetpartnership. (FYI – there are a few home items back on sale here).

Clutch bags are a fashion staple and I LOVE this optionfrom Hammocks and High Tea because it is reversible! Its kinda like a mullet - business on the front, party inside! If you are wearing a basic blackdress – spice it up with the chevron side. Looking to go a little classier –try the metallic. Also – the bags are made in the USA!

The Nutcracker: Act Seven - Sugar Plum Fairy

2011-12-08T13:00:00.000-05:00

I like all of the characters in The Nutcracker, but thisone may be my fav - the Sugar Plum Fairy! It’s one of, if not THE most popular song from theplay.

· Reader Amy is a big fan of Bakedby Melissa cupcakes. Well, Melissa has really stepped things up with herchocolate-covered cupcakes. Yes, you read that right. And they are deliverable!Order. Now.

· Like I said, The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairies is one of the best songs from the play.Why not buy a CD of the music to get you in the festive spirit. Here’s one fromthe BostonBallet.

· After watching Toddlers & Tiara’s tonight, Idecided that moving forward I will rename Christmas, Glitzmas. For that person onyour list that loves some bling, wrap your gift in this Sugar Plum Fairystocking from Target.

· Cupcakes include sugar and you know I lovecupcakes (I had to work this in here somehow!) so how awesome is this cupcaketime from FredFlare! Amazeballs.

· While putting this post together, I startedwondering – what the effe is a sugar plum. Google searches (and WilliamsSonoma) tell me that they are a “legendary symbol of everything sweet anddelectable…” – sign me up! They also contain Brandy ; )

· There is also a company out there called SugarPlum Chocolates. Seriously look at what they sell. This is the ChocolateEverest (they also have the Chocolate Kilimanjaro). After a base ofchocolate, this thing contains popcorn, chocolate dipped potato chips, peanutbutter cookies, chocolate dipped Oreos, chocolate dipped biscotti and chocolatedipped pretzels. Wowza.

Oh and since it is Thirsty Thursday, here’s a deliciouslooking cocktail called SugarPlum Dreams. I’m dreaming of this drinks…

FYI - Tomorrow is my FINAL Nutcraker post. That will make one reader happy that told me that all the posts were too difficult to keep up with. Bah Humbug!

Gift-a-Day: Burgh Bubbles

2011-12-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

(source)

When I lived in Chicago and would go home to Pittsburgh,some weird tick went off in my head and I had to purchase everything that said“Pittsburgh” (not Panthers) or “West Virginia University” on it and then takeit back to Chicago. I have pens, shot glasses, numerous apparel items. Let’sjust say that I’m stocked up.

However, there’s one item that may be on my list as ahost/hostesses gift for non-Pittsburgh natives OR for friends that now liveafar – Pittsburgh Bubbles N’At.

Created by Dreadnought Wines and sold in their StripDistrict store, the bubbly is actually made in California using French grapes.

Pittsburgh Bubbles N’At retails for $14.99.

(found via – PittsburghPost-Gazette)

The Nutcracker: Act Six - Angels

2011-12-07T22:54:00.001-05:00

Okay seriously. This angel stuff was totally moredifficult than I anticipated. Let’s just say after my searches for this post, Ican’t get images of freaky angels made from yarn and ceramic out of my head. Creepy.

· Sadly, when I think of angels, I think Victoria’sSecret. Buying bras and undies for the women (i.e. friends and lovers) can be abit awkward…you don’t want to get them a big size to imply that they are largelol. That’s why PJ’s are safe. Here’s a cute Angelsleep shirt from VS.

· One of the most talked about (and advertised) perfumesright now is ThierryMugler’s Angel. A star freak, I love the bottlesfor this collection!

· I LOVE the idea of stuffing stockings with nailpolish or buying some as a hostess gift with a mani gift card. This Essieshade is called Angel Food. Yummm.

· Okay sonot all angel décor was freaky. I thought that these wooden angels fromEtsy were cute! And totally DIY-able!

· Via Nordstromis this cute angel necklace. The card behind it reads: “Make a wish and put onyour necklace. You’re never alone on the journey of life…wear your necklace asa reminder that your angels are with you for every twist and turn.” Sweet for afamily member of friend!

Gift-a-Day: Pitter Patter of Little Feet

2011-12-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

Don’t get too excited out there – it’s clearly not any feet of a Smithkowskikid. After last weekend the only thing I’m birthing is like three bottles ofwine (maybe more like four or five). BUT if there was ever some patter around ourpad (via the stork), I’d hope that kid was wearing these awesome Trumpette shoes.

Trumpette, the maker of those adorable kid socks does itagain with these super cute Silly Soles. What kid wouldn’t want to prancearound in patent leather polka dot shoes!?

The Nutcracker: Act Five – The Mouse King

2011-12-06T23:48:00.001-05:00

Of course today’s gift options are going to revolvearound one thing – a pet mouse. HA! Just kidding.

Did you know the play was originally called “TheNutcracker and The Mouse King?” Yeppers, it was! That’s because the Nutcrackerand the Mouse King battle in the play. I won’t tell you what happens in thisfight of food and kitchen utensils ; )

It’s around a mouse’s favorite food (and mine) – CHEESE.

· From Pastoral,an adorable Chicago shop that ships across the US, an awesome cheese medley.

· Pastoraland a number of other places like PennsylvaniaMacaroni offer Cheese of the Month Clubs.

· I LOVE thesestate cutting boards. In fact, the West Virginia one I on my Christmaslist!

· Of course Crate & Barrel has a number ofcheese accessories that make an awesome gift. Some options include a cheeseboard with cutter, cheesemarkers and an individualslicer.

· I discovered MagnoliaLane in Nags Head earlier this year and I just love its adorable, painteddishes. How cute is this festive cheese tray!?

Gift-a-Day: Gummy Beeeeaaaarrrrssss....Bouncing Here...

2011-12-06T23:24:00.001-05:00

Oh you know you remember it...

Gummy Bears! Bouncing here and there and eveywhere.....

That theme song was one of those awesome ones that got stuck in your head all day. Actually, while searching for this song and watching the video, I was able to recite the whole song still!

Well for a child of the 80's or someone that just likes candy, today's gift is a set of scented headphones shaped like Gummy Bears! Yummm....

(source)

But wait - there's more!

Ironically today I also saw these adorbs Mac Jacobs heart shaped ear buds. A perfect price point to give a gift of a bit of luxury!

(source)

Gift-a-Day: I'm The Designated Driver

2011-12-05T22:24:00.001-05:00

In college I dated a police officer. This is so illegal, but he'd always let my friends and I fool people with his badge. We'd play undercover cop at the bar. Oh, not to mention we were 20.

Well things got even more out of control one night when we borrowed his breathalyzer. Let's just say that we found out the batteries weren't working when sometimes unnamed reader was "legally" able to drive after drinking a bottle of whiskey.

After our failed breathalyzer experiment, we all kind of wondered why you shouldn't just buy one. So when you went out, you could test yourself before driving.

Well, that has happened. And crazier, the device is sold at...TARGET! I stumbled upon this twice today in gift guides! I give you....The Alcohawk!

I mean this is a totally random, weird gift, but I just had to share it!

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The Nutcracker: Act Four - Snowflakes

2011-12-05T21:04:00.001-05:00

In The Nutcracker, the Waltz of the Snowflakes is one ofthe best known dances in the play. Typically snowflakes are things that mostpeople WANT to avoid, but sometimes snow is just so darn pretty. You know, whenbig chunks are slowly falling. I call that “snowglobe snow.”

Thanks to global warming, we’ve had a really mild fall /winter so if you are looking for some snowflakes, may I suggest these options…

· Tiffany& Co. makes a cute silver snowflake charm (there’s also a necklace andaffordable ornament)

· Philosophyis my go-to shower gel of choice. Exclusively for Nordstrom, Philosophy ismaking a holiday set called snow kisses. Perfect to stock in your bath forguests or purchase for your favorite hostess!

· The MOMAstore has this super fun snow globe ring that makes an amazing stockingstuffer

· Okay, so this snowglobe isn’t techniqually asnowflake, but it holds a special place in my heart. You see, one very earlymorning during the hectic holiday travel season, I tried to get this throughairport security and they wouldn’t let me because it is considered a liquid, soI cried. Those who know me know that I never cry, so that’s a big deal. I nevergot it back! Sniff. Anyways, Saksmakes these for a number of cities! Just don’t try to pack them in your carryon: (

· A festive sweater is seriously a must to have inyour closet. I like this black and white number from J.Crew because it could be stylist at an ugly sweater party, but you can alsowear it seriously at work.

Gift-a-day: Poppin' Bottles

2011-12-04T15:00:00.000-05:00

Let’s face it. When you drink beer from a bottle, it can bea bit annoying to get the cap off (it it’s not a twist off).

A few years ago, we were visiting B’s family and his momhad one of these Bottle Poppers. Letme just say, this is the coolest solution to opening bottles. You put thislittle plastic thing over the neck of the bottle, press down and voila! Your bottleis open! It’s like magic!

We have been looking everywhere for one of these badboys, but a closer look on the popper revealed a website. It’s actually prettyrad and they have a WVU one!

Even more awesome – you can buy two of these (one foryou, one for me!) for under $20!

Introducing Sundays with Sue

2011-12-04T11:00:00.000-05:00

Readers ask and they shall receive.

Reader Brian writes “Sue (aka Shot of Mom) should haveher own weekly feature on the blog. Since she likes football, it should beSundays with Sue.”

Well reader Brian, I aim to please.

Like Fashion Friday, Thirsty Thursday and Tech Tuesday,today I’m launching Sundays with Sue.

For our first post, Sue suggested Sauerkraut Balls. Sueonly makes these during November and December and said that they freeze well.Reader Trish also loves the balls and has made some of her own!

Sauerkraut Balls

· 1 lb pork sausage

· 1 cup chopped onions

· 2 tbsp minced garlic

· 1 lb can sauerkraut, drained and chopped

· 4 tsp cracker crumbs

· 1 8oz cream cheese

· 3 tsp parsley

· 2 tsp dry mustard

· 1 tsp pepper

· 2-3eggs beaten

· ¼cup milk

· Breadcrumbs (I like to use panko)

Cooksausage, onions and garlic until brown. Drain well.

Mixsauerkraut, cracker crumbs cream cheese, parsley, mustard and pepper. Combinewith sausage mixture.

Chillfor at least 1 hour.

Removemixture from refrigerator and with floured hand, roll in small balls. Combinebeaten eggs and milk and dip balls into mixture and roll in cracker crumbs.Deep fry.

The Nutcracker: Act Three - The Nutcracker

2011-12-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

Today, we are going to cover the namesake of play – TheNutcracker! I remember seeing The Nutcracker in Pittsburgh as a kid. My mom gotsome super awesome seats real close. The whole play I was excited to see a girlfrom my grade school dance with the Sugar Plum Fairies. At the end, I demandedthat my mom buy me a souvenir – a Nutcracker that I believe still lives at myparents’ house. Since that one has been around for way too many years, here aresome upgrades!

· The obvious gift here is tickets to TheNutcracker!

· They seriously make Nutcrackers with almosteverything imaginable painted on them. I, of course, love this WVUs one ; )

· There are a ton of fun Nutcracker t-shirts outthere that could be cool to wear during holiday parties. Here are my favorites:here,here and here.

· Now, for the real Nutcracker enthusiast (or ifyou are just really rich), there is a place out there where you can customizeyour own Nutcracker! Check it out here.

· If you are in the market for a real Nutcracker,may I suggest this silversquirrel option!

Gift-a-day: Pick a Winner

2011-12-03T15:54:00.001-05:00

(source)

If you walk into our home, you may think that I’m marriedto a rockstar. The hubs was giving permission to leave his guitar out ondisplay and he recently received an Irish drum from his awesome wife (ah hem)lol.

When the hubs was taking guitar lessons back in Chi-town,we used to have guitar picks around the apartment. B’s picks were just boringred from like Guitar Center, so when I saw this gift, I thought it could begood for the hubs!

This little fancy device, you can make your own guitarpicks from old credit cards, hotel keys or anything plastic. Or carry this withyou in your guitar bag to ensure that you always have a pick!

The Nutcracker Act Two: The Kids

2011-12-03T09:00:00.000-05:00

The Nutcracker revolves around the kids in the play - Claraand Fritz. At their parents’ party,their godfather Drosselmeyer (WTF kinda name is that??) gives the childrenpresents. Fritz is pissed because Clara’s present is an awesome Nutcracker sothe mean jerk breaks it. Of course, that makes Clara super pissed. Oh kids…

If you have some kids on your shopping list, get themsomething super awesome like the things listed below. They are guaranteed tomake their siblings jealous ; )

· At the opening scene party, the children’sgodfather, a toymaker, brings the kids four life-like dolls who dance. The kidslove the dolls, so if you are looking to purchase some for the kids on yourlist, may I suggest the most famous of them all – BARBIE! Check out this Vera Wangdoll! (Just don’t check out the price tag!)

· For a kid or kid at heart like me, I LOVE this KateSpade Prize Ball. You unravel the ball of color fun to find littletrinkets!

· So like Muppets are super cool again given theirnew movie out. FAOSchwarz has this cool thing where you can design your own Muppet Whatnot.Gosh where were these cool things when I was growing up?! Here’s one I made ; )

For Fritz (little stupid poopie face shouldn't be getting anything based on his actions, but it's the holidays)…

· Reader Lindsay informed me that little boys liketrains (she’s got nephews!). Why not make their day with an awesome train set! I likethis one because it is wooden and not some fancy electronic one.

· How freaking rad is this Hogwarts Lego set?This is a must have for any Harry Potter fan! The hubs was LOVING the Lego aisle this week when we bought some toys for kids from a work toy drive!

Gift-a-Day: Burn, Baby Burn

2011-12-02T16:00:00.000-05:00

West Virginiaplayed its last regular season game last night, but that doesn’t mean my mindisn’t thinking about tailgating next year at Mountaineer Field!

My parents, the #1tailgaters in my book, use their outdoor burner all the time, so I think it’sabout time the hubs and I invest in one of these bad boys. And for all of thoseguys out there that thing Shot of Brandi* went to girly, here’s a manly Colmangift.

This little badboy requires a propane take to bring the heat to tailgate favorites like spikedhot coco, soup, Italian beef, etc. The warm possibilities are endless! AND it’sunder $75 – a popular gift price point.

But wait - there's more!! This burner is available at Target. I consider this a bonus because you can pick up so much other stuff while you are there - wrapping paper, cards, shoes, clothes, food, etc.!

Outdoor Burner via Target

Nutcracker Act 1: The Parents - Herr & Frau

2011-12-02T14:30:00.000-05:00

The opening scene of the Nutcracker shows a Christmas Eveparty at the house of Herr and Frau Silberhaud. Along with their children,Clara and Fritz, friends and family join them to decorate the tree.

While we don’t know a lot about the Silberhaus' we doknow one thing – they like to entertain. Here are some ideas for parents likethe Silberhaus' may enjoy.

· The theme of the Silberhaus’ party is a treetrimming, so why not bring something to add to the tree. My favorite ornamentscome from The ChristmasMouse (Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach), but more fitting given this giftguide theme would be these Nutcracker ornaments from Crate& Barrel.

· When you are hosting a party, you often forgetto take pictures. Especially if you are running around replacing dishes andchatting with guests. The Sony Party-Shot camera dock swivels and turns aroundsnapping pictures of the party! (Sony)

· How cute are these personalized serving trays!There are many colors and patterns available and this is one of the best pricesthat I’ve seen! (Swoozies)

· Sometimes when you are at an all day party /drinkfest and night falls, you often run out of games to play outside unlessyou have a spotlight. Well this game solves that issue. This rad game ofhorseshoes has LED lighting! (Target)

· Clean up can be more than half the battle when entertaining.How about a gift certificate for a local maid or cleaning service that thecouple can redeem post-party!

Twinkle Toes

2011-12-02T13:00:00.000-05:00

So a littleinsight on the behind the scenes world of Shot of Brandi*. I typically startblog posts in advance. So of the ones that are season, I don’t have finish, soI save them until the next year or scrap them.

I’m really sadbecause I had some really long post wrote a few months ago about my point ofview on glitter shoes and it just disappeared! I can’t find it anywhere.

Rather thanrewrite all of that goodness, let me just make this brief.

Glittered shoeshave been around for a few years now, but if you read any of the Septemberfashion issues you will notice that the PR department of Miu Miu needs a raise.The brand’s line of glittered shoes were in practically EVERY issue – eventwice in some. Women all over are coveting these $800 – $900 shoes.

I know 99% of myreaders would love to have these shoes, but realistically, you can take a tripto Punta Cana for that price tag.

So my opinion –glitter shoes are fun, cute, jaw dropping - they are just awesome. BUT for manyof us, they just aren’t practical. I’d bet you would wear them 1-2 times amonth. So if you do the math, that’s about $37.50 per wear.

The high endversion of this trend should be a pass. The reason is – a lot of mass retailersare making versions of the glitter shoe at a WAY fraction of the price. Forinstance, that $37.50 per wear of the Miu Miu shoe? Well for $34.50, you canget a pair of silver glitter shoes from Old Navy (top right). The store ALWAYS has deals,so let’s pretend that you get $10 off and wear these 4 times – that boils downto $6 per wear.

Some other options(all under $100)

Gold StevenMadden

Modcloth

SteveMadden (knocking off the Miu Miu’s)

Zara

Target(pretty much a Kate Spade design knock off with glitter)

AldoMega-Platform

And to channel yourinner teenager, here’s a pair of sneakers from AmericanEagle!

(P.S. – since Istarted writing this post, some of the Miu Miu shoes have gone on sale here and here)