Makin' Whoopie Wednesday: Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

It's fall y'all! With that comes the appearance of everything pumpkin. When I posted on Instagram and Twitter (so if you're not following us yet, you could be missing out.) this picture of my hubby's weekly dessert feature, I got many requests for the recipe. So, Whoopie!, here it is. You can thank my wonderful fella for it. Enjoy!

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Maple Cream Cheese 

FOR THE CREAM CHEESE FILLING

3 cups confectioners' sugar

¼ teaspoon maple extract

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract


PUMPKIN WHOOPIE COOKIES

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

1 tablespoon ground ginger

1 tablespoon ground cloves

1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

2 1/4 cups brown sugar

½ cup olive oil

½ cup rice bran oil or canola

3 cups pumpkin puree, chilled

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Making the Cookies -

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Using parchment paper or silicone baking mat line two cookie sheets and set aside. Mix by hand the following ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and cloves. (If you are in a pinch, you can use a basic pumpkin pie spice blend instead of the individual spices). In a second large bowl, whisk together brown sugar and oil, mix well. Continue adding eggs, vanilla. Fold in chilled pumpkin puree. Sift  in flour mixture to bowl containing the pumpkin mixture until fully incorporated.

Drop even and heaping tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets, about 1 inch apart. Bake 15 minutes or until cookies are cooked in the center (check with toothpick inserted in center). When the cookies are cool to the touch, but still warm, take half of the cookies and turn them upside down. Press gently until you create a flat bottom, these will be your “bottom” cookies. Allow all cookies to cool completely on pan.

Making the Filling -

Sift confectioner' sugar into a medium bowl; set aside. Using a mixer and a paddle attachment, beat butter until smooth. Add cream cheese and beat until well combined. Add confectioners' sugar, maple extract and vanilla, beat until smooth.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Transfer filling to a pastry bag or use a large food storage bag and snip the end. Pipe a large dollop of filling on the “bottom” side of the cookies, but do not overfill. Make sure that your cookies are completely cooled. Add a "top" cookie that has no filling to each filled  "bottom" cookie to create a sandwich. Gently press the "top" cookie to move the filling to the edge of the sandwich. Transfer to prepared baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap. Dust the top of the whoopie pies with confectioner's sugar right before serving if desired.

Design Day Friday: Wallpaper with No Commitment

Antlers

Mention wallpaper to anyone not in the design industry and you'll probably get a facial expression similar to asking a 6 year old to eat brussels sprouts. Well, ask me and I'll tell you I love wallpaper AND brussels sprouts!

The stigma of wallpaper is likely derived from the mid-century foils, florals and chintz patterns that covered bathrooms, bedrooms and kitchens and when removed took everything but the plumbing down with them. Later, the wallpaper boarder trend reared its ugly head. Rooms suddenly became accessorized in the same way a poorly placed belt accentuates the worst part of your figure. Hence, wallpaper hung its head in shame. (pun intended). 

The wallpaper of today isn't granny's wallpaper and designers are using it in the most creative ways ever. Wallpaper can add unique personality to a space that takes it from average to spectacular. In many of today's mass-market-architecturally-lacking new construction homes, wallpaper can add texture and drama to a cookie cutter floor plan...and...it just got better. I have been introduced to a product that takes wallpaper love to a whole new level.  It's wallpaper without commitment.  Not to mention it comes in fabulous graphic prints. Don't stop at walls. This stuff could be the next chalkboard paint! 

It's from a company called Chasing Paper. A female owned company, so we especially love them, that developed a peel and stick paper that stays in place but removes without harming the surface below. Making it very forgiving to install. Here's what Chasing Paper is all about:

"Peel it, stick it, love it. It's beautiful, well-designed paper that will stick to nearly any surface. Go ahead and get creative!

Chasing Paper was born in the hustling sparkle of New York City, but its roots are in the Heartland. It was created from conversations with serial movers, stylish mamas, renters who feel like anything but, DIYers, and, of course, commitment-phobes. 

Chasing Paper is for everyone. It makes small projects affordable and big jobs a breeze. We are invested in the accessibility of simple design and the power of transformation." 

They have a ton of designs, but I picked my top five (which changes all the time). Who can blame me? Happy Peelin' and Stickin' Ta.

That's a Plus

Sexy Hexy

Simple Stripe

Circle and Pop

Dot

Photo credit: Chasing Papers

Newly Wed-nesday: Getting Acquainted with Guesterly

If there is one thing brides and grooms consistently tell me they dislike about wedding planning, its the seating chart. Trying to create fun and interesting match ups can be overwhelming and often creates a little drama of its own.  Today weddings are more inclusive. Guests are not just bystanders they are participants.  Old wedding traditions have transformed into new ways for couples to bring a unique flair to their wedding. Making sure that guests have a fun and interactive experience is top priority. What if you could get ahead of the game and introduce your guests before the big day? Imagine a big mixer/meet up where you could make all those introductions in advance.  Guesterly is an innovative tool born from one couples desire to do just that.  No more his side and her side just one big celebration.

In 2012, while planning their own wedding, the founders of Guesterly, Rachel and Lorne, came up with the concept. They faced the dilemma that many brides and grooms face, how to blend family and friends from different corners of the country or even internationally. Combined with a concept sparked from  Lorne's college Freshman Herald directory and Rachel's knowledge of publishing through her work as a magazine editor at "O" Magazine, Guesterly was created.  Here is how it works:

Why do I like Guesterly?  Before you ask, let me answer the obvious question. Why create a magazine when I can use a website or social media? Guesterly will reach all of your guests regardless of the social media they do or do not use. Guests may not be as comfortable using websites or posting personal information or photos. Guesterly is delivered directly to your guests and you control who gets a copy.  Finally, every bride and groom will tell you that the big day fly's by in a flash. Guesterly is an ice breaker that will eliminate a lot of time spent making introductions and give you more time to make memories.  Happy Best Wedding Ever! Ta. 

The Shopping Bag: Go Pink!

It wouldn't be October without thinking pink. Isn't it wonderful that breast cancer awareness and October are so immediately connected in our minds. Oh how far we have come! There is still much farther to go and it just wouldn't be right to start my October posts off without turning the blog pink with fabulous goodies that support saving the ta-ta's! Not to mention the holiday season has already kicked off in retail stores reminding us that it's not that far away. Why not keep the pink going and make it a pink Christmas this year? Shop now and share awareness and fabulous style! I set out to find the best picks and hottest looks.

Its no secret that I look forward to football season every year so my first pick is all about showing team spirit and support. The NFL shop has an entire section devoted to breast cancer awareness for him and her. Most styles come with logos from all NFL teams and there are many items to choose from. The NFL's "A Crucial Catch" campaign raises awareness and funds to support the American Cancer Society. 

Speaking of holiday sparkle, how about a gorgeous statement necklace and earrings from Loft? Designed by Suzanna Dai with breast cancer survivor and TV personality Giuliana Rancic for the "Live in Pink Movement." Sixty percent of the purchase price will go to Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Skinny jeans are not going anywhere and they have gone from denim to a rainbow of colors. Now, one our favorite, U.S based denim designers, True Religion is making a pink skinny jean. The company is donating ten percent from the sale of these jeans to Susan Komen and has pledged a minimum $35,000 donation.

With October also comes a long list of events, especially runs and walks to benefit breast cancer awareness. Gear up with a cause. These bright pink running shoes by Asics benefit the Christina Applegate Foundation Right Action for Women campaign. Asics will donate $2.00 for every pair of shoes sold during the month of October. Also many other athletic gear manufactures like, New Balance and Under Armor have awesome powerful clothing and shoes for the cause.

Everyone needs a little glam in their day. Pamper yourself and someone you love with these beauty products from timeless brands like Estée Lauder and Bobbi Brown. All of these pink products would make great gifts and give someone special a little pick me up while helping women fight the fig.  

Estée Lauder

Bobbi Brown

Coach

Josie Maran

Dermelect

We recognize the pink ribbon. We see the info graphics. We wear the color. We support the fundraisers. Are your taking action? Don't avoid it. Face it. Fight it. Help find a cure.

Couponing For Mere Mortals: Target Coupons, Cartwheel and Deals

Well, its no secret that I have a love affair with Target. What a lot of shoppers don't know is that they have several ways to earn additional savings in store and online. I am still surprised by how many of my friends and family are not using these resources to save. Therefore, I decided that I needed to devote an entire post in my "Couponing For Mere Mortals" series. Here's the breakdown:

Coupons: Target has accepted manufacturer coupons for years, but many shoppers are still unaware of the store coupons that Target offers on its website. By clicking on the Coupon link on the Target Website, you can print store specific coupons to use at the register. You will have to go through an initial set up for the printer software with your first use of the site. These are not just store brand products either. This is where it gets really good. Did you know that you can combine manufacturer coupons with Target store coupons? Yes, you can double up the discount with one of each, unless restricted by the manufacturer. Most of the Target store coupons are for in-store purchases, but occasionally they offer an online code as well.  Here is their complete coupon policy.

Mobile Coupons: Another variation of the Target store coupon promotion. Text COUPONS to 827-438 (Target) you will receive a link to sign up. Then you will receive a text message containing your coupons. When you check out just hand your phone to the cashier to scan the bar code and any coupons for items you are purchasing will be applied.

Daily Deals Online:  Everyday Target has select items that are on sale for 24 hours only or until they are sold out whichever comes first. These are exclusive online deals. You can see some of the items coming up as daily deals for the next five days, but you won't know the sale price until the item goes live. Go to the Target website and clink on Daily Deals, then scroll to the bottom to see what's next. This is great for big items that are on your wish list.

Cartwheel: This is the newest way to save at Target. Cartwheel is a completely separate app from the Target website and Mobile Coupons.  Cartwheel is Target's social network based savings app. Its easy to use and the more willing you are to promote the app the more you earn in Cartwheel. Here's the way it works. Go to the Target website and click on the Cartwheel link in the left side menu and download the app to your phone. Create an account by logging in using your Facebook sign in. Now this is what turns some people away, but don't worry. Once you sign in using the Facebook, you can opt to share your activity or not share. Basically, your account is set up like, obviously enough, a shopping cart. You get a limited number of spots in your Cartwheel. Click on the browse option and add the deals you want to use. When you check out, hand the cashier your phone, they will scan your barcode and any discounts you have loaded into your Cartwheel will be added. There are a lot of discounts available and you can use them several times until they expire, but you have to select them into your spots to activate them. The benefit of using the share feature on your Facebook is to promote the app to your friends, the more friends you have join the more spaces and badges you earn to activate deals. I have used this app along with coupons and it works great.

REDcard: Now, advocating a store credit card is not my usual preference.  The Target RedCard is a good addition to your savings routine, if you use it appropriately. The rules apply the same as signing up for any credit card. Keep a low balance limit, pay it off regularly before adding additional charges, and of course pay on time. What I like about the REDcard is the additional 5% off every purchase and the free shipping on all purchases. If you are a regular shopper at Target, 5% off your bill can be a benefit, especially when you stack it with other discounts like Cartwheel and coupons. The savings can really add up. Be careful not to let it lead you to impulse buy. Stick to your list and your pre-planned discounts.

I think Target hit the "Bullseye" with these great deals and discounts. Please feel free to share your great finds and deals with me! Happy Target-ing!

Newly Wed-nesday: Megan and Brandon, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan

As I mentioned in yesterdays post, I want to share with you some of "how I spent my summer." One of the highlights was the wedding of my favorite nephew Brandon to his sweet fiance, Megan. I was honored to help them plan the wedding and it was truly a wonderful experience. Megan has a wonderful personal style and Brandon is classic and traditional. Their wedding was every bit a reflection of the two of them.

All The Details:

Color Story: Tiffany Blue, White, Pink

Ceremony: Christ Church Cranbrook was gorgeous without any additional embellishment. The incredible architecture of the historic church was the backdrop during the traditional evening ceremony. Megan and Brandon were the centerpiece of the moment. It was elegant and reverent but filled with joy and personality.

The Happy Couple:  Brandon was quite dapper in his Brooks Brothers tuxedo and black tie. His very classic attire was set off by his Tiffany blue socks peeping out of his loafers.  Megan stunned us all in her gown by Priscilla of Boston. The strapless ball gown created by the designer made famous by Grace Kelly, featured a bodice of handmade rosebuds. She wore satin pumps embellished with crystal butterflies by Aruna Seth. The bridesmaids wore short Tiffany blue dresses that tied at the waist with pockets, of course. Her sister and Matron of Honor wore a robin egg blue version of the same dress.  The brides bouquet of white peonies and baby's breath and maid's bouquets of blue hydrangeas were created by Fleurtech. 

Reception: The Village Club was in full bloom and the lush grounds were the setting for the cocktail hour on the patio. This night was literally a garden-party. After dinner, guest returned to the lantern lit patio. The bride and groom provided family and friends with a cigar bar to enjoy, as well as passed hummer ice cream cocktails.  

Design: Table top decor included huge white hydrangeas, baby's breath in Tiffany style boxes and birch bark lined containers and accented with metal lanterns and blue and clear glassware. Each table was named for a location in Chicago where the couple met and lived. The escort cards and table tents were handmade and depicted a silhouette of each Chicago landmark.

Sweets:  In lieu of the traditional cake, Megan and Brandon had a cupcake bar, featuring with oodles of yummy sweets from Taste Love Cupcakes, winner of the Food Networks 2012 Cupcake Wars. Flavors included, Red Velvet, Chocolate Peanut Butter and Double Vanilla Bean all dressed up with Tiffany blue icing and the signature white bow.

The Party: Brandon and Megan wanted their day to be a celebration, making certain to stick to old traditions but still create a fun, relaxed atmosphere. The bride and groom finished their bridal dance with a "snowball" dance. Making sure that every guest hit the dance floor at least once to enjoy their nine piece band. Other goodies included Tiffany boxes of dancing shoes for tired party feet created by Lisa's Gift Wrapper's, who created all the Tiffany boxes and card box for the event. The brides mother passed around lighted maracas to get guests in festive spirit and the couple set up a photo booth to capture friends and family enjoying their big day. Finally, the evening wrapped up with guests taking home a taste of Michigan with Towne Club Pop and BetterMade Potato chips waiting for them as they departed.

Family weddings are always special and although I am not impartial, I have to say this was one of the best. It was a great time with a beautiful couple. I could not be happier to see my wonderful nephew marry such a lovely and caring wife. Many years of happiness Megs and Brandon. We love you. Happy Life! Ta.

Photo Credits: Laurie Tennent Studio, House of Gray, MadLab Designs, Random Family and Friends.

The Reinvented "Of-The-Month" Box

Well, Hello! Its been quite a summer. Gone too quickly as usual. I'll be catching you up on all the goings-on over the next week or so, but today I wanted to share a great idea for long distance gift giving or especially for the college back to school-er. Its not a new concept to sign a loved one up for a monthly delivery of fruit, meat, etc but there are several companies that have refreshed the concept with some really interesting, socially conscious and healthy incarnations.

Umba Box - Umba provides the recipient with their specially selected handmade gift or gift(s) each month. They concentrate on jewelry, stationary, accessories and bath items with several options for length of subscription. "We are passionate about handmade products and the connections that can be forged between consumers and artists. We shine a light on handmade products by including a story about the artist in each Umba Box. Ultimately, Umba Box is special because of the insight each subscriber gains into the lives of artisans." 

ManPacks - The name speaks for itself. This is a great option for college fellas, a guy just starting out or the too busy to think about it type. You can send ManPacks every 3 months. The packs come in several options including, "Gym Rat" and "The Natural" or "CEO" to suit every guys style. They include socks, undies, shaving items and if you so choose, for the progressive parent/gift-giver...cover your ears children...condoms (said with a whisper). Another convenience is you do not need to know the recipients sizes or address. They will contact them directly to collect the info. 

Hammock Pack - A super idea for someone who really needs a little me time but just won't take the time. Hammock Pack offers a solution that arrives on their doorstep and they never have to leave home. "Whether it’s as simple as a movie night or mementos from that exotic vacation you can’t find the time to take. So relax and let a little “me time” come to you." They offer three affordable subscription options and unique themes each month. What a great mid-term treat or for Mom after a busy summer with the kiddos.

Birch Box - If you have someone who is really into the latest and greatest in beauty products and accessories this is the box for them. They have boxes for men and women. Birch Box sources high-end beauty products from established to up and coming companies. "The women’s subscription includes everything from skincare to makeup, as well as fun non-beauty extras. The men’s subscription delivers top-tier grooming products in addition to lifestyle accessories ranging from hip socks to tech accessories."

Blissmo Box - These boxes are filled with eco-friendly and non-toxic products and offered with a 3 month gift subscription of either their beauty or snack packs. They search out new brands as well as established product names. "We want to use products that are better & safer for our bodies, our families, our communities and our planet, but realized it difficult to know where to find these products or if they were truly safer...We figured others had the same frustration so set out to help health-minded and earth-minded shoppers discover what's better."

The Honest Company - Made famous by its founder, actress Jessica Alba, The Honest Company specializes in safe, earth friendly cleaning and baby self branded products. Their gift packs come in 1, 3 and 6 month options of either the family home essentials or the diaper and wipes option. This is a fabulous idea for a new mom, but the cleaning products would be a creative and useful gift for a new grad with a new apartment and a college loan to pay off. Either option is practical and thoughtful.

There are lots of companies that are hoping on the gift box wagon. Whichever you choose, its a convenient and useful gift that is still personal and creative. The joy in these gifts is the anticipation of knowing you have surprise to look forward to each month. Who doesn't want to stretch out a birthday, holiday or special occasion as long as possible. I'll be checking the stoop for some goodies...Happy Giving! Ta.