Mina-Jacqueline Au

Happy Valentine's Day My Dear ...

2010-02-07T23:30:00.006-05:00

It's been a long while since I posted due to my pregnancy. Apologies for those that wrote so many notes and emails to me asking about my site ... this blog is still as alive and well. I recently did an interview segment with Better Morning Show which broadcasts around the country on Valentine's Day gifts for men. As a Luxury Lifestyle Expert, you'd think I know there is all to know about gift giving to the boys in our lives ... put it this way, I got these one of a kind, rare car light bulbs that my husband said he had wanted as part of his Christmas gift and I'm still being laughed at to this day. In any case, here is a list of fun items that will hopefully inspire you to a wonderful gift for the man in your life this Valentine's Day:

For the Bar Enthusiast. Why not give the gift of beer to your love one. Better yet, recreate a bar scene at home with a Beer Tender. Invite his friends over and play bartender for the night (with finger foods of course!). He will sure be pleased not only for the gift but also your effort and thoughtfulness.

For the Man with a Sweet Tooth. Chocolate giving doesn't have to be boring as it sounds ... spice it up with fantastic gift packages from Vosges Chocolat. Here is something else ... heard of bacon & chocolate? Here is a gift set that men (and women) won't be able to resist.

For the Raod Traveler. On New Year's Day - 2am, my husband and I were stuck with a flat tire. Roadside Assistance was going to take about two hours before they can come rescue us. If it wasn't for a friendly police officer, we would have been stranded till the wee hours in the middle of no where. Why not give yourself a piece of mind that in such unfortunate situations, your love one will have the proper safety tools in his trunk and that he will be home safe at the end of the night. This Emergency Kit has everything from jumper cables to hazard signals ...

For He Who Loves Relaxation. A lot of men would love a good massage but are intimidated to walk into a spa setting where they are put in robes. After all, unlike us girls, they don't have the "drill" down packed. That doesn't mean you can't give him a gift of pampering. Hire a mobile spa party like Sparties where they will come to your home and customize a party or day of pampering for you and your man. Better yet, invite another couple and have a double date/spa party! Sparties will actually transform your space into an actual spa with relaxing aromas and beautiful decor. All you have to do is sit and relax.

For the Foodie. My husband and I love steak or a dinner at a good restaurant. We are fortunate enough to have the freshest foods and the best chefs at our disposal in New York City. But for those that simply like to stay at home for dinner or are on a budget, here is the best solution. Gift him the gift of steak! Order a fantastic meal that would have cost you over $200 at fine restaurants and have it delivered right to your door. Whip up a three course meal of filets mignon and lobster tails (Surf & Turf) and end with piping hot chocolate souffle! Not into cooking? Purchase a gift card for a steak subscription that he can use at his leisure. Worried about quality of a home delivered meal ... well Allen Brothers Steaks is my go to delivery site for meat ordering and they are also the go to people for some of the most well known restaurants in the country like Morton's Steakhouse.

For the Expectant Dads. How can I leave this category out?! You've seen our parents do it and you've seen your friends and other new parents do it ... they all run after their children with the best cameras and camcorders so we don't miss a moment of they first of everything - first smile, first crawl, first words ... Gift him this very sleek, Coby camcorder that is compact enough to be carried around and very affordable as well!!

Lastly, here is another wonderful place to get your Valentine's Day (or any day) gifts - Luxe Cause Auctions on Ebay. I have decided to take the annual charity event I founded, Luxe Cause, to a whole new level where everyone can participate. I've gathered wonderful items from my closet as well as closets belonging to my celebrity friends and socialite friends, to have a global auction online all for the name of charity! With this global participation, Luxe Cause, won't stop at making just one child smile or just one man warm. Luxe Cause won't stop at just rescuing one dog from a kill shelter or furthering medical research by one millisecond - though I don't know how much Luxe Cause can do to help, but my goal is to never be satisfied. That said, this is going to be a long term project that will run year round. So the next time you're looking to purchase a gift or designer goods (new or old) please remember to check Luxe Cause Auctions. For Valentine's Day, there are these amazing brand new Moschino cuff links that normally retail for $135!!

Valentine's Day Giveaway. Be a follower and leave a comment for us. On February 15th, we will announce the winners. Here are the items we are giving away:
- Emergency Kit
- Sparties Gift Certificate
- Voges Chocolate Bacon & Chocolate Gift Set
- Moschino cuff links

The Assistant's Notebook

2009-10-01T12:56:00.007-04:00

There’s a moment in time where you feel like you’re living in a dream. There’s a kind of ecstasy that builds inside of you, butterflies of excitement that seem to tickle your senses and open your eyes to amazement. I’m proud to say that I have experienced a dream like no other. My experience with NYC Fashion Week had definitely opened my eyes to the world of glitz and glamour; the wonders of the fashion world. When I stepped into the most distinguished and appraised event of fashion, I stepped into a world of beauty and mesmerizing taste. As the buoyant beats of the techno runway music reverberated, the models glided gracefully across the runway in bright colors of extremely structured material and craftily designed to evoke the mood of spring. There is proof that the fashion world continues to live, and live with a vigor like no other. As a personal assistant to one of the Upper East Side’s socialites, Mina-Jacqueline Au, I was lucky enough to attain entrance into the appraised Fashion Week, specifically backstage to the Rebecca Taylor show. At the Rebecca Taylor show, I noticed the hordes of people crowded around the tents, the anxious girls trying to get a glimpse of Gabrielle Union and other famous celebrities in attendance, and most of what I noticed was the mass amount of light; the lights that lit up the runway, the light of the mass amount of cameras, the light from the faces of the people in the crowd whose love for fashion shone on their faces as the clothes were modeled. The fuchsias, oranges, ceruleans, floral patterns and polka dots spoke to me more than anything could ever describe. It was like spring was growing along the runway; the clothes were alive as introductions of the spring season. Fashion is a gift to Mother Nature during the changing of seasons. Fashion Week, a celebratory event is also a gift to us as lovers of one of the most successful industries of our age.

Falling Back into Summer

2009-09-13T12:27:00.005-04:00

Instead of feeling the kiss of warm sunlight in the fragrant summer air, we now feel the brisk air that is also infused with hints of red cinnamon, orange tanginess-- the hint of fall that dapples our cheeks with blush. Now, even though we would like our skin to glow with the summery tan and supplements of vitamins from the sun, we should not fret about losing our summer days just yet. As long as the weather continues to be just a tad bit warm, we can still fall back into summer as much as anyone can fall back into love. Here are some ideas...

1) Host events such as a a bbq because as long as the weather is nice, there should be no disregard for a social gathering. It could be a fresh start party! Use decor to reflect a new start, a new season.

2) There's no place like..the beach. The beaches don't close, and especially when you just want to snuggle with a sweetheart underneath a large flannel blanket sipping hot tea from a thermos....summer is guaranteed.

3) As the days get shorter, the nights get longer. As the winter approaches, we tend to get antsy to get away...so why not start planning early? Start looking for vacation deals to travel somewhere warm in the winter like a cruise to the Caribbean, a trip to the spa in the desert, or just travel to a tropical place where summer is always in season like Hawaii.

4) The best days besides summer days can be birthdays. If you have any friends/family members with September birthdays, why not host a party for them? Hold a clam bake on a rooftop, or have a party in the backyard.

5) Lastly, just because we 're past Labor Day, it's not a fashion faux pas to wear white anymore...so get those white dresses, pants, blouses, scarves out and about. White can be right for this holiday!

Bringing a Dream Home

2009-08-27T17:24:00.016-04:00

When I was young, I had dreamed to become a ballerina one day.My mother took me to ballet lessons at one of the best ballet academies in the country. Under the pretty pink tutus and the overflowing ribbons and bows, is the art of discipline and determination. I had both, in addition to ballet shoes in every color and chiffon wrap skirts in every shade of pinks and peaches. But as I grew older, my body didn't allow me for a professional ballet career, nor did my mind. My body was growing and the headmaster deemed me unfit to be a ballerina and at the same time, I was too ambitious to explore other business paths, so I traded in my Pointe Shoes for heels…and the dream of being a graceful ballerina slowly slipped away.

One autumn afternoon, when I visited Paris with my sister for the weekend - we walked past Repetto, the famed ballet shoe maker. The shop was as stunning as the art of ballet. In an instant, all my memories of gracing stages all over the world came rushing back to me, being a character only one can dream of being ... a white swan? black perhaps ... or a doll ...

And it was then I realized that my dream hadn't died and I couldn't help but purchase a brand new pair of Point Shoes. For now, it's decoration in my home, hanging gracefully. For if one day, I decide to dance again ... it'll be there for me.

After the Cake, We Open Gifts...

2009-08-25T16:58:00.033-04:00

There's always light on the very first birthday or a baby shower. Aside from the candles that glisten on the scrumptious cake, the innocent sparkling eyes of the child or the glistening eyes of the soon to be mother reflects the joy of coming of age into the world. Especially after the cake, the act of opening presents reflects this feeling of joy; these gifts help share the understanding of love. As they venture into the first chapter of their lives, any child should do it as much as possible in luxury and style. With these cute gift ideas, you won't have to ponder too strenously about how to ensure you're giving and promising adventure and love. Whether it'd be a birthday or a baby shower, let it be known that style also runs in adorable.

1. Eau de Senteur. Any baby smells swell, but this added spritz just finalizes the scent we love to keep smelling...a little bit of French fresh.

Smell like a Belle. $74.

2. Pretty Flower Clips. Crafted by Real Housewives of NJ star, Teresa Giudice, these flowers are elegantly crafted. With the two toned purple or pink small flower clip, this makes the perfect accent gift for babies, toddlers, and even big girls. The flower is accented with a gemstone center and comes attached to a lined alligator clip with a non-slip strip. The flower measures about 2 1/2 inches.

Passionate Pink C lip. $15.

Majestic Purple Clip. $15.

3. Blossom Coverall. With elegant design, high quality materials, and classic style, these coveralls would suit any new blossoming child into the world. Comes in three different colors; Chocolate Brown, Ballet Pink, and Snow White.

Delicate & Dainty. $59.

4. Baby "Driving" Mocs in Silver. Modern and handmade,these silver mocs would make any child have happy feet. With nubbies on the soles, comfortable is always in style. The mini version of the JP Tods that are in our closets. Comes in white, pink, and blue.

The Silver Lining. $57.

5. Cute Fur Lined Suede Boots for Infants. Try something different than Uggs. These cute furry footers will surely provide any little one with a sense of adventure, especially in these comfie footsteps. Comes in Black, Brown, Tan, Espresso.

Take a Hike! $34.

6. Baby Shoe. With the cute signature pattern, a little bow, brown leather trim, and the most adorable buckle strap around the tiny ankles, how can anyone not say...

Gucci Gucci Goo! $225.

Traces of Dreams

2009-08-13T13:52:00.008-04:00

Change is good. Something new is good. Pictures are worth a thousand words. Here are some beautiful inspirations to bring into your lives today ~ things I wish for you ...:

1. The most gorgeous flowers to brighten your day.

2. A big ice cream cone for you.

3. A moment of pure relaxation by yourself.

4. An enchanted meal with the best of friends and closest of families.

5. Bows & ribbons, feathers & smiles - a leap back to a happy childhood memory.

6. A spontaneous getaway to a place where no one knows your name.

Give Thanks to the Summer Host

2009-08-12T11:23:00.035-04:00

Even though most of our summer days have been spent rainy and some cold, and it’s August and near the end; it doesn’t mean we stop throwing parties or attending parties for that matter. And with parties, there’s always a classy and appropriate way to show appreciation to your host/hostess. Whether it's a casual gathering at a friend's home or a summer-themed bash, never attend empty handed or leave your host with 50 extra bottles of wine. Here are some ideas for hostess gifts:

1. Tupelo Honey. Bring something sweeter than wine. A bottle of artisan honey paired with fresh cheese or fruits can savor any taste buds. Tupelo Honey- Flute is my favorite brand of honey.

Oh, Honey. $24.

2. Peugeot Rechargeable Electric Wine Opener. For the wine loving host, their wine collection is probably extensive enough and it might be hard to open up all those bottles of wine. Here is a little bit of unnecessary (or necessary?) luxury they might love to make their wine drinking days easier. Open Sesame! $119.95.

3. Freshly baked bread. Bread is always a nice, thoughtful gift. A loaf from a local bakery and a bottle of top-grade olive oil for dipping can be saved for a light, elegant dinner, or panned out for the party’s events.

4. Monogrammed Oval Soap. A hostess with the mostess would adore these Personalized Soaps. $49.

5. Teas from Fine Estates. Have you heard of "drink tea, live healthy, be happy?" This is something I couldn't live without. A Little Tea for the Soul. Prices start at $19.

Shower 101

2009-07-29T11:32:00.005-04:00

We all love showers. Rain showers, calm refreshing showers after a stressful day of work, showers of hugs and kisses from loved ones, and one of the best type of events a girl can have; the baby shower/bridal shower. Sometimes it’s stressful to throw a shower because of so many things that need to be done, so listed below, I have some helpful tips on how to plan and throw a classy and simple shower.

Give guests plenty of notice- Always send a “Save the Date” email at least 3-5 months ahead of time and it can be very informal, just do this so that guests can be aware of your event. When the hostess/host knows more of the details, then invitations can be sent at least 3 weeks before the event--people can’t be sitting around waiting for you!

Don’t ask the guests for money- It’s very déclassé because if you take on the responsibility of being a hostess/host, because when you throw a shower it’s your financial responsibility too. Another considerable option is to ask a bunch of girlfriends to co-host with you.

Guests, Check for registered items- The guests should find out where the hostess/host is registered, but it’s also important for the hostess/host to notify guests of registration through either emails, or a small card in the invitation.

Thank you notes- The hostess/host should assign someone before hand to record gifts for thank you notes so that they can be sent out in a timely and orderly fashion.

Party favors!- It’s the right thing to do to thank your guests for coming to your event. Just a small token of appreciation would suffice and could be as simple as a cookie in a bag.

Co-Ed showers?-There are no restrictions to having just girlfriends at a special event, however, it usually depends on the guest of honor and their preference. Anything goes!

Bring a green aspect to the shower - Ask for gifts unwrapped or wrapped in newspaper or magazine pages. It's fun and you are saving the environment.

Affordable Diamonds

2009-06-02T13:27:00.009-04:00

I went to a Denim & Diamonds Charity Dinner last night benefiting Project Ladybug (see post below). For this event, I took out my best diamonds, including a butterfly diamond cuff my mom had custom made for me for my wedding. I had intended on wearing a dramatic diamond necklace, but I am a sucker for taking off my diamond cross that I’ve had forever. I feel naked without it … but that was too simple for the event. And then my good friend Ramona Singer, you may know her from Bravo’s Real Housewives of NY, called and then I had an idea. Ramona has designed some of the most fabulous looking jewelry and I rummaged through my jewelry boxes and layered her diamonds on top of my cross and there – look was complete and I had numerous people come up to me last night oohing and ahhing over my choice of jewelry.

Ramona is really brilliant. You see the fun side of her on the show but she’s so brilliant that I am loving her more and more every time you see her jewelry. She is brilliant enough to designer a high-end jewelry collection that is estate pieces inspired in real diamonds and perfectly cut gems … the best part – I don’t have to shell out $5000 for her pieces. Her prices are so affordable they cost less than Louboutins!! The first time I saw the pieces on Ramona was at Rebecca Taylor’s fashion show and I couldn’t take my eyes off of them. When I took the chance to ask where she purchased them from and how much – I almost fell off my seat when she told me her pieces cost a couple hundred dollars. A COUPLE HUNDRED DOLLARS?! For real diamonds? The stones are impeccably cut. They remind me of pieces of jewelry my mom would bid on at auctions.I especially love her rings and earrings. They are simply divine.
Ramona will be on HSN tomorrow, June 3^rd (Wednesday) at 9PM. Click HERE for a preview.

A Salute to Children, A Salute to Dina.

2009-05-11T15:01:00.004-04:00

Most people who know me and have been following this blog knows that I do not involve my social life here. But for once, I'm breaking the rules and introducing you to someone whom I've developed a great admiration for, for her amazing work and efforts in charity. I can go on and on about how so and so donated thousands of dollars sponsoring a gala and got their name plastered on all the programs and invites ... or so and so who sits on the host committee and advisory board of certain charity every year just so she can play dress up in Dior with her friends for a night ... I can go on and on about gossip of people I see everyday and the things they do. But I won't, instead I want to talk about this girl (who happen to look like real life Barbie), who is not only signer of many checks that went to good use but did the dirty work from posting stamps to setting the tables before an event. What sets her apart is, in return she expects nothing - not a picture at the VIP step and repeat, not a dress sponsorship by Oscar de la Renta, not even recognition. She is my friend, Dina Manzo, founder of Project Ladybug and most of America will soon know her as one of the Real Housewives of New Jersey.

She founded Project Ladybug before she was part of Bravo's history. She was simply just a mom, a sister, an aunt ... someone that cooked for her daughter, liked to dine with friends and lived a comfortable lifestyle. And rather spending her days clearing Chanel and getting photographed everywhere she went, she decided she needed to help under-privileged children that are devastated by terminal illness. It's a cause people tend to overlook. When you think of children and babies, you think of new beginnings and good health. But some of the battles these children fight, are greater than anything you or I have ever gone through. As a participant to several charities, I saw this as something worthy. But it never hit me as to what grand things Dina is doing until I heard the stories of what these kids are going through ...

At a spa recently with Dina and Caroline (Caroline is Dina's sister, who happens to be another Real Housewives of NJ), Caroline described to me to story of this little boy: He had cancer of the heart and miraculously, he beat it. But soon enough the doctors found cancer in his shoulders and so they operated on his shoulders and took out much of its muscles. So he walked around lopped-sided, unable to use his bad shoulder. (Honestly, if that were to happen to me, at that point I'd be crying in bed brooding over how unfair this is and what a horrible life Im having ... ) But what this boy did was use his one good arm and held and rocked his crying baby sister and said "I am the protector of her". Even in such pain and such battle, a little boy could have a better attitude then all of us would ... that's beyond words. Dina also showed me a picture of a little girl who wore a hat that said "Cancer Fears Me". It just makes me cry. Hearing about these children brings me back to reality about all the things that I worry and complain about everyday ... how come I can't lose that 5 pounds; I don't have enough shoes to wear; I have one grey hair that isn't going away ... they are all so superficial and so trivial. The battles these children fight everyday are experiences that no children should go through but yet they do it with a smile and a giggle. They are my heroes and what Dina and Project Ladybug are doing for them ... well, it's just phenomenal.

In this tough economic time, I know that charity is the first thing out the window for many families. But please consider donating a service or products (if you have your own business) as Project Ladybug often hosts events big or small in hopes to raise more funds. If you can perhaps make a commitment to give up Starbucks a couple times a week for a month and instead write a check (big or small) ... it can make a huge difference in the lives and well-being of these young children. Email Project Ladybug for more donation info: LadybugFoundation@Gmail.com

Mom's On My Mind

2009-05-04T18:44:00.008-04:00

When you were young, she was your chauffeur, your teacher and your cook. She wiped tears off your face and picked you up when you fell. She relentlessly told you right from wrong even though you thought you were a know-it-all. Now in your adult life, she is your friend, your guiding light and your cheerleader. She never fails to stand by your side. Most of all, she's your mother. Mother's Day is less than a week away. Don't forget her this year ... get her something amazing that would bring a smile to her face (best part, you don't have to break your budget to do that). Here are a few fabulous ideas:

1. Nest Candles & Burn Voyage Candles. You don't have to buy her a plane ticket to transport her to somewhere fun. Nest candles are made with fun scents like Bamboo and Moss & Mint. They are unique and the candles are poured in beautiful decorative tumblers that can be reused as a vase! The smaller Burn Voyage candles are made with an exotic combination of scents to transport mom to "Greener Pastures", "Purple Mountains", "Azure Seas" (my favorite) and more. What I love about these candles is the packaging. So pretty. Pretty. Pretty.

Nest Candles $32. Free shipping at any price.
Burn Voyage Candles $26.

2. Memoire Liquide. If you are in California, visit the Studio Beauty Mix counter at Fred Segal or pop into Bloomingdales 59th Street in New York City to custom mix your own fragrance. This is the perfect way to recreate a certain memory, time shared between mother and daughter or a childhood dessert always made by your mother ... The possibilities are endless. If you are out of the New York and LA areas, there are over 160 scents you can purchase online to mix and match according to mom's moods. See my link below.

Memoire Liquide $ 35-65.

3. Unconditional Love by Philosophy. Consider the oppurtunity to love the greatest of all blessing. Need we say more with a gift called "Unconditional Love"? In fragrance form or other body care, it's a perfect combination of beauty and a message. And through Philosophy's sister site, you can send a personalized card and download songs ... perfect for Mother's Day.

Unconditional Love Spray Fragrance $40. Free shipping with purchase of $50 or more.
Unconditional Body Products $22-$45.

4. Coco Luxe Truffles & Madeleines. Inspired by destinations around the globe, these handmade truffles are named after places like Capri (made with balsamic and sea salt), Bombay (curry and coconut milk), Tulum (spicy peppers) and more. The madeleines are (taste just like Paris) made in original flavors or with elegant ingredients such as edible lavender, English Roses, and Kyoto Green Tea. Chocolat de Luxe is so exclusive and in demand that for now, they are taking orders by email and by referrals only (tell them I sent you).

Coco Luxe Truffles $8.75-$42.
Coco Luxe Madeleines $3-$8.

5. Stearling Silver Crystal Hearts by True Faith Jewelry. What woman doesn't like jewelry? Designed by Bravo's Real Housewives of New York, Ramona Singer. Her jewelry collection has impeccable craftsmanship and great attention to details. She's worn both all her designs throughout the show. Hear are my two favorite pieces:

Filigree Heart $199.
Heart with Rose Crystal Flowers $129.

6. Tracy Stern Beauty Teas & Tea For You. Tea Maven and New York society hostess, Tracy Stern, has developed the most unique line of teas that are proprietary blends of the best quality teas from the finest estates around the globe. Included in her tea collection is a line of beauty teas such as Awakening Beauty, Toxic Beauty, Sleeping Beauty and even Slimming Beauty. Fabulously packaged (her teas come with an infuser), Tracy is showing the world that big girls and moms can have their own tea parties too. Reccently, Tracy also published her second book called Tea For You which talks about the art of blending your own tea.

Beauty Teas $19-26.50.
Tea For You $12.76. Free shipping when you spend $25.

Mommy and me.

Singing the ABC's

2009-04-28T14:35:00.002-04:00

We were taught "an apple a day, keeps the doctor away". As of today, singing the ABC's will keep the Swine Flu away ... doctors say when we wash our hands, we need to wash for 20 seconds to kill off germs but do we really stand there and count "one, one-thousand, two ...". Here is a fun tip: sing the ABC's! This is great to teach children as well. When the song is done, you are at 20 seconds and germ free.

The Scent of Spring

2009-04-27T01:35:00.006-04:00

Continuing my last post about Earth Day, here is yet again something pretty from Mother Nature: flowers. The common language of flower universally is both beauty and a blissful promise of hope. Though it seems cliche but to my surprise not many people place fresh flowers in their homes, simply they are too busy with their lives to be bothered with. Whether you live in a big home with a garden and a backyard or an apartment building, never fail to bring flowers into your home. Purchase flowers that are all the same in one or two colors, cut them short and drop them in a low square or cylinder glass vase. Place them in unexpected places - bathroom counter tops, night stands or place a few in a row on the floor of your foyer.

Happy Earth Day!

2009-04-22T10:38:00.003-04:00

Be part of the Green Generation, celebrate Earth Day by taking action towards GREEN! Here are some small things you can do towards creating a greener lifestyle. They are simple, take at least one thing and make it your own and make everyday, Earth Day:

- Reduce carbon footprint. Ride your bike to work if you can, walk to your nearby grocery shop, car pool with a friend, neighbor or co-worker to work or dropping your children to school ... carbon emission accounts for the numerous damage that has been done to our ozone layers. The effects of such damage? Global warming, increase of skin cancer ... the list goes on.

- Project Switch. Started by the Earth Day Network - save energy by switching inefficient incandescent light bulbs. Save money on electricity bills by using less energy. This is yet another step towards reducing carbon footprint.

- Plant a Tree. This weekend, plant a tree with your loved ones. It's amazing bonding time and it's your way of giving back to mother nature.

- Go Natural. Substitute water-based products whenever possible when buying paints and household cleaners, or switch from chemical-type cleaners to natural products like soap and water. Natural cleaners are healthier for children and families as you won't be ingesting in chemical residue left behind by cleaners. Buy products in bulk or with minimal packaging materials.

- Protect the Water. Clean up after pets, even if you don't live near a stream or river. Don't dump used oil, paint, coolants or other chemicals into the ground, stormdrains or garage drains. Find proper disposal instructions online.

Fun Centerpieces for Children Parties

2009-04-21T15:42:00.004-04:00

Enough about beautiful centerpieces for adult parties ... children parties should be nicely put too. But what do you use as centerpieces? Clusters of hydrengras that children won't appreciate? Giant candles that blocks the view of their playmates that sit across from them? What about something that all kids love? Crayons! It's really that simple - purchase a short vase, fill it up with Crayola color sand and stick crayons in it! Line them throughout the center of the table and you've got centerpieces that children would love!

Earth Hour 2009

2009-04-02T20:51:00.002-04:00

On Sunday, March 29th at 8:30pm, New York time, over a billion individuals and businesses turned their non-essential lights off for an hour in honor of Earth Hour. For once, my view of the New York City skyline was dark and gloomy (even the Empire State building had its lights off), but very much hopeful. Earth Hour is a joint effort in a call to action to fight for to protect our environment and alleviate climate changes. New York City got into action, did you?

Wedding Etiquette

2009-03-19T18:30:00.006-04:00

When you receive that very special invitation in the mail, you take it for granted that you will be a gracious guest and that you'd be far from being one that is talked about after the wedding. You know ... those that we say to our friends, "remember that woman that wore white to the wedding?! What was she thinking?" or "Honey, should we or should we not ask her if her gift got lost in the mail or she just doesn't want to give us a gift?!".

First and foremost, as a guest, you should never be late. Fashionably late in this situation makes you very un-fabulous. No such thing. For weddings, arrive 15 minutes earlier than the invite states. Note that what is written on the invite is the ceremony start time, meaning you should already been seated and settled. Then there is the topic of bringing guests which I am shocked to know how a lot of people do not know about this ... do not bring a guest to the wedding unless your invite states "& guest" or "Mr. & Mrs.". Don't take it personally if the couple doesn't invite your significant other or your friend ... weddings cost a lot and most of the time, couples are forced to cut down their guestlist.

Gift giving ... many people ask me about gift giving and from personal experience, I've had my share of stories.

- If you've attended the couple's engagement party, bridal shower, bachelorette party ... etc, you still have to give a gift. Just because you feel you've showered them with enough gifts doesn't mean it's grounds for you to skip or skim on the wedding gifts. These are all separate occasions and they all require separate gifts. If you can't afford so much spending, regrettfully decline an invite to the bridal showwer or the engagement party. Instead, send a well-wishing card.

- If you are part of the bridal party, know that you have your own financial obligations which includes your dress, throwing a bridal shower and a bachelorette party and other wedding related expenses. Similar to the above, you just can't use "I've spent enough money for this wedding" as an excuse to skip or skim on the gift. If you know that you cannot afford such role, speak with the couple ahead of time and find out your options. But do not ask the couple to pay for your things ... a wedding isn't cheap to begin with.

- If the newly weds have asked for donations to charities in lieu of gifts, do not skim on your donation. If you would have spent $200 on the wedding gift to begin with, donate $200.

- Sentiments don't play a role in cases of weddings. You don't have to spend your sleepless nights thinking of creative items to get for the couple. Most couples have registries - purchase something off the registries. You know those are things they want and need. When in doubt, give cash. Cash/check is always appreciated.

Now, before you come screaming what to wear ... weddings are actually pretty easy. One golden rule. DO NOT WEAR WHITE. As a matter of fact, to be safe - don't wear cream or ivory. Don't ask, don't think ... just don't do it. If your invite doesn't state attire, keep in mind that day time weddings and Sunday weddings call for something more casual (by no means you should wear jeans and tees). Jackets & tie and flowy dresses are great for casual weddings. Evening weddings will call for suits and a bit more fancier dresses, such as cocktail dresses. And here is a refresher course on attire etiquette:

Black Tie / Formal = tux for men and gowns for ladies
Black Tie Optional = tux or suits for men and ladies ... it's free for all ... go as formal as you like
or as casual as cocktail dresses
Semi-Formal / Cocktail = suits for men and cocktail or knee-length dresses for the ladies

Keep in mind, never upstage the couple with what you wear. It's their day, not yours.

Puppy Love

2009-03-15T19:14:00.005-04:00

Some of my dog-less friends think I'm obsessed. They'll never understand the love and the bond that can grow between a person and a dog. Dogs are called man's best friends for a reason. It's been close to four months since Charlie took his first plane ride from the breeder. In the last five months, the amount of research I've done on everything dog related amounts to a degree. I've had pet boutique owners and vets comment on my knowledge anywhere from dog food ingredients to training. (Charlie knows how to sit, stay, lay down, back off, high five, stand, wave and now in the process of teaching him to wave. But I won't take full credit, part of it is the breeder. Good breeders breed good dogs. I've been blessed with what my friend called, the "Einstein of all dogs".) With my research, here are some of the best dog products on the market, click on the name for more information on the products:

1. QuadBrush Pet Toothbrush: Brushing your dog's teeth is not the easiest task but it is so important. Here is something that will make your life easier. With bristles on all sides, you are brushing multiple areas at the same time.

2. Wellness Dog Food & Treats: Feeding your dog a healthy diet and premium diet will elongate your dog's life. Though premium quality food may cost a bit more, but you save hundreds and thousands on vet bills. Here is a company that puts thoughts in dogs' well being and nutrition through various approaches: holistic, grain-free ... etc. Remember, even though it seems fun to feed the dog table scarps, never do so as it throws their nutritional levels off, especially for dogs with a sensitive stomach.

3. Kwigy-Bo Carriers: Finding a stylish dog bag is not easy. Finding a stylish and functional dog bag is even harder. Kwigy-Bo has started making stylish and functional dog bags and they are flying out of stores across the country. In stylish designs, Kwigy-Bo bags are ultra comfortable for your little dogs and are all equipped with endless pockets for your personal items like wallets and cell phones! They are also airline friendly.

4. Dog Car Seat: Safety first! Our pets are as precious as a child, so if a child rides in a car seat, so should a dog. I've seen numerous dog owners drive with their dogs in their lap or on the passenger seat unsecured and it scares me to death. Do you know that in an accident, the impact from an airbag will instantly break a dog's neck? Airbags are made to save humans but not pets. Car seats comes in all colors, sizes and price points. Please be safe and invest in a car seat even if it's a short car ride.

Spring Trends 2009

2009-03-04T13:58:00.003-05:00

BOHO CHIC
Embrace yourselves for bold jewelry, metal-adorned belts and shoes and flowy, diaphanous
skirts, the new crop of fashion offers a different approach to rich detail that may make you
feel more pulled together than looking like a gypsy, thought Gypsy Rose does play a role in
this. This Spring find tops that have loser bodice and bell sleeves. And don't forget the mini
floral prints.

COLOR BLOCKS
If Boho isn't your style, try color blocks like 1970's. Pair bold colors like neon green and red ...
use colors that normally wouldn't match. I did a TV segment the other day and put an
ensemble together like this: neon green fitted warp top with dark blue jeans and a patent
leather toy blue hobo bag (big hobo bags are in season as well!).

CHUCKIER SHOES
Think platforms (but don't go over board), thicker strap sandals and wider heels.

A Sophisticated Fairy Tale by Rebecca Taylor

2009-02-23T19:08:00.003-05:00

Last week was fashion week and I am exhausted. New York Fashion Week has always been a lot of fun picking out dresses at the showrooms before the show, prettying-up for the shows and seeing friends in the tents. But it's always right when fashion week ends, that the exhaustion of show hopping hits.

As always, a long time favorite designer of mine has set the bar very high for this coming fall. This Fall 09 collection was inspired by imagery from Northern European fairy tales or more realistically - a young, girlish but sophisticated European traveler. The palette is deep hues of violet and pomegranate softened with natural girlish shades of beige and pink. Ultra feminine ruffled tops and playful dresses are softly embellished. Her ensembles are a mixed of the softest wool and cashmere with chiffon, velvet and taffeta. The jewel tones and flirty floral prints added a jolt of vibrancy to the collection that is sure to enliven any bleak Fall wardrobe. My favorite were her very sexy and hip fur jackets and her very Valentino mixed with Yves Saint Laurent ruffled blouses and dresses. I can't help but find myself say, "I can't wait till the Fall" (and I hate the Fall).

Seated next to me were Tori Spelling, Alexie Gilmore, Mena Survari and my friends Ramona Singer and Anisha Lakhani.

After the show, I decided to skip the Ports show and headed to lunch and a massage with my sister till the after-party of Rebecca's which was hosted my Jamie-Lynn Sigler.

Alexie Gilmore, Danielle Panabaker & me

Tips for Greener Events

2009-02-09T20:37:00.002-05:00

I am arranging a bridal shower for a good girlfriend. I got the pretty letter pressed invites that matches her wedding colors of pale pink and mint. For the first time, I've decided to make my events a bit more eco friendly and here is a great way to start ~ on the bottom of the invite, I had printed" for a greener event, please bring your gift unwrapped!". Wrapped gifts completes the idea of your brilliant gift, but the papers get tossed anyway. What ideas do you have to make your events more earth friendly?

Ushering New Traditions

2009-01-30T00:15:00.006-05:00

Happy New Year, Chinese new year to be exact. I grew up with strict household traditions of what never to do during the first few days of Chinese New Year. You see, even in a non-Asian, Christian/Catholic household, traditions from our Chinese ancestors still stand strong. Comes Chinese New Year, the household staff would thoroughly clean our place like never before. My mother would wear a white glove and go through every corner of the home herself and if she finds one spec of dust, the cleaning starts from the beginning again. The Chinese believe cleaning before New Year is like Spring cleaning ... out with the bad in preparation of the better luck in the coming year. There were lots of rules. Only wear happy colors, mainly red (Chinese believed red to symbolize luck and black means mourning); Never to say the words "die", "sick" or anything negative for that matter (that rule was adhered to strictly as my sisters and I would be punished if anything bad slipped out of our mouths); The kitchen maids would spend days (I really mean days) with my mother cooking different different dishes with names that resembles luck, health, wealth and happiness ... the rules can go on and on forever.

Though now years have past and the same traditions are still kept at my MOTHER'S house, I now have the freedom to keep my household anyway I wish. And back when I was a child, New Year, though festive, sometimes seemed like a pain in the neck, now as an adult - the traditions are quite fun and sometimes they are what keeps me going. It's like "thinking happy thoughts". So here are some ideas to keep yourself positive and happy on New Years Day, the day after, two days after and maybe ... everyday of your life ...:

- Speak in positive terms. It's the same thing as my parents not letting me say the word "die" during New Year. It is like cursing at yourself.

- Wear happy colors. Red has never been my color and for every New Year, the new red shirt/sweater/dress I'd buy, they'd always end up in my "charitable donation" bag. But that's not to say your wardrobe should only be chicly black. Always add an item on your body with colors that pop whether it's a belt, a scarf or shoes! (This is why no one should laugh at my lime green Tods driving mocs.)

- Buy something new to wear on New Year's Day. New year, new clothes, new luck, new happiness, new successes ... you get the idea.

- It seems like most times the holiday festivities end after New Year's Eve when people go home drunk and they start the next year out cold, hungover and ordinary. In Chinese traditions, they burn firecrackers, they have dragon dances, they play the drums ... they make a lot of noises. Thousands of years ago, the noises are meant to ward off evil. Now, the Chinese do it for festivities, as a form of celebration. So why do our festivities have to end with the New Year's Eve party? Celebrate with friends on the first weekend of the year with yet another get together, go to a restaurant with live music, go dance the night away! Make noise! Laugh! Be happy!

None of these ideas are religion based. It's what you believe in. When I was younger, I believed that if I shower before midnight on New Year's Eve, I'd wash away everything bad from the passing year and I'd usher in the New Year with new hopes. That was nothing but a silly non-sense ... but guess what, I believed in it and I had good years. Find something you believe in, even if it's silly. Make it your tradition and you'd have a new year with lots of happy things to look forward to.

Holidays Do's & Don'ts

2008-11-22T03:52:00.003-05:00

It's that time of the year already ... festive music, sparkly lights, shopping rush and lots of family dinners and parties with friends. While having fun, don't forget some basic holiday etiquette!

Gift Giving:
- Regifting is okay only when you won't offend the person who gave you the gift. When in doubt, don't do it. The best way to deal with unwanted gifts is to donate them to charities. Just remember, maybe you absolutely hate that sweater that Auntie Sally got you, but there is someone out there who will really need that sweater. The same goes for books, toys, decorative goods ... etc.

- In tough economic times, spending less on your close friends & families is understandable. After all, it's the thought that counts. Also, you can always offer services such as pet or baby sitting.

- Another great present to give someone, especially those that have everything is donating to charity of choice in their name. A lot of charities will in return, give you a card to give to the person whose name you donated money in to notify them of your gesture. But please know that donating to charities is not an outlet to skim. If you had planned on giving a $50, donate the entire $50.

Hosting Parties & Companies:
- Be a gracious host. If you are expecting guests to stay over in your home, be sure to have extra blankets and pillows. Try to give your guests what you'd expect at a hotel. Put together an amenity basket of small goodies. Make your guests feel welcomed.

- As a guest, always bring the hostess a holiday gift. Chances are, they've gone out of their way to do some extra cleaning and organizing in anticipation of your stay. Show that you appreciate them doing all that and opening their home to you. If you don't have time for gifts, taking the hostess out for a nice post holiday meal is a good gesture as well.

- Don't be high maintenance. If you have special food needs, eat before you attend a party or give the hostess notice well in advance.

- Mingle at parties. Don't make the hostess feel bad that she's left you alone to sit when she's busy manning the party and greeting her other guests at the same time. Plus you never know who you'll meet.

- Drink a full glass of water before heading to a party so that will keep you full in case of any food delays. That will also keep you from binging.

- Don't restrain yourself from eating certain items. It's the holidays after all. Indulge in a bit of cake, pastries and those delicious sweet potato fries ... just remember portion control is key.

Holiday Party

2008-11-18T20:37:00.008-05:00

I threw an early Holiday Party for a handful of my friends at Strip House, a sexy steakhouse on East 12th Street in NYC. Here are some helpful tips from decorations to being the guests that are invited:

- Serve a signature cocktail. This way the investment in alcohol is not a lot and if you make it in a color that matches the theme of the party, they will look pretty in pictures with everyone holding the same thing. In my case, the bartender at Strip House created "The Hottie" in a provocative red to suit my holiday theme.

- Always have on hand a presentation of non-alcoholic drinks such as sparkling water, juices and soda. You'll always have guests that won't drink or can't because they have to drive.

- To create an abundant center piece, purchase mini vases from your local home shop such as, Ikea or Target. Place single flowers in them. Hydrangeas are my flowers of choice, they are colorful (choose colors according to your theme), usually big and fluffy and cost effective. Then scatter rose petals around your mini vases.

- If using flowers aren't your first choice, purchase candles that are in unique tumblers. In my case, I bought these candles by Altru in copper tumblers. The tumblers can be given to your guests or reused as a vase after the candle has finished its burn.

- Another option is to fill small vases with berries. To go with my red holiday theme party, I filled my glass vases with little strawberries and tied each vase with a pink ribbon. The ribbon adds a nice finished touch.

- When using candles as centerpieces or decorations on the table, do not light the candles as the scents will compete with the aroma of the food. Leave them unlit unless they are unscented.

- A great investment for parties and dinners is a coffee machine that makes single pods of different flavor and style coffees. Dulce Gusto sells for $169 and will make anything from regular coffee to cappuccinos and lattes. Guests always love coffee at the end of the night, especially if you create a coffee bar for them to play around with.

- Always send guests home with a piece of something from your party. You don't have to spend a lot of money on party favors as it will be the thought and memories that the guests will remember most. For my party, pastry chef Cecile from Macaron Cafe made chocolate macarons painted in edible 24k gold for my guests. She placed each delicate macaron in cellophane bags and tied them with a ribbon. For you at home, you can purchase Oreos covered in holiday colors icing or bake cookies with holiday images on them. Individually wrap them and finish it off with a ribbon and a little card of thank you. Your guests will sure to leave smiling.

- As a guest, attending a party at a restaurant or at someone's home - it is always nice and appreciated to bring the host a holiday gift. Put some thought into the gift, match personalities to what you are buying. That's the least you can do for someone who's graciously opening their home to you or had spent the money throwing a fantastic party.

Tea Party

2008-11-18T01:15:00.005-05:00

I attended a tea party thrown by my friend, Tracy Stern. She's a tea guru and has her own line of teas and lifestyle products such as trays, lip balms, hand-painted China and a book titled "Tea Party". While I had so much fun having tea at her beautiful Upper East Side apartment, here are some tea party tips:

- Begin with a motif for the tea party. Make it fun and use your imagination so it won't be your grandma's tea party. Tracy's was creating an indoor garden.

- Adhere to your motif from color to decoration to your plates and utensils.

- Pick up interesting objects at sales, flea markets, estate sales, craft stores and everywhere else, year round. Be a collector of things that can be placed on your table and then file the items you bought in boxes labeled "Christmas" or "Halloween". You'll be surprised at what you can create with the things you've collected through out the year.

- Always have what Tracy calls a Runway which serves as your centerpiece. Your Runway should set the mood of the party.

- Tea etiquette dictates that when serving tea, always pour for your guest of honor first and yourself last.