Pamper My Party

At Pamper My Style, my luxury gift set company - we are preparing our sets for 2013 already!  We are working hard to curate sets like Pamper My Valentine, Pamper My Mom, Pamper My Garden and Pamper My Party.  

So, on this windy Monday I thought it might be a nice time to sit down and plan a party or two.  There are many ways to throw a pampered party and here are some of my favorites!  (Check out our Pinterest board for even more pictures and inspiration :) 

1) Throw a Spa Soiree!

A few years ago I decided to have a Pampered Pool Party!  I invited over some of family members and my best girlfriends.  It was absolutely wonderful!  We had such a great time that everyone is always asking when I am going to throw another.  Soon ladies, I promise! 

Here are a few pictures from that wonderful day:

A Professional Masseuse was there to lend a hand! 

The weather certainly agreed with us.

My Nannie enjoyed the day so much!  Such a special memory.

My tricks for throwing such a successful party, like with anything else, is attention to detail! 

Serve up these Ginger Fizz's from Yum Sugar.  Click here for the recipe.  

Photography courtesy of Yum Sugar

The medicinal benefits of ginger compliment the health focus of the party.  So, think through the goal of the party you are throwing to make the experience all it can be for your guests!

I also found this clever idea for a snack on Pinterest.  The dip is made out of avocado, with cucmbers for eye masks and a red pepper cut into the shape of lips!  The hair wrap looks like some kind of fondant...any other guesses??

One thing to never forget for small get togethers like this is the take-away bag.  Loved this idea I found on Etsy.  The item is no longer available, but it's easy a great DIY project!  

Pamper your party with little surprises.  Like put a gold token in one of your guests goodie bags and give them a special prize, like a gift-card to a mani/pedi at a local salon!

2) Afternoon Tea

Next up, we are getting a little more sophisticated (just a little) and putting together a Proper Pampered Tea Party!!

Pinterest is overloaded with cute decorative ideas for this one.  Encourage your guests to wear hats and their most beautiful Chanel inspired suits and pearls and have fun with it!  

We all know a tea party is really all about the snacks, but don't skimp on the tea.  Be sure to have a wonderful selection of teas for your guests.  You can highlight different regions, tea types and flavor profiles to make the experience both beautiful and educational.  

My favorite local tea spot is Sullivan St Tea and Spice Company in NYC's Greenwich Village.  You just can't get more adorable than this little shop tucked away on one of the sweetest blocks in Manhattan.  

Can't make it downtown?  Check out David's Tea, the Canadian company taking the tea world by storm with their inventive flavors like Forever Nuts (with Almonds, Apples and Beetroot) and Red Velvet Cake Tea (5 calories per serving!).  Check out their website to order online. 

The snacks for tea time are light, lady-like and sophisticated.  Food Network has this extensive list of 50 Tea Sandwiches.  There are just so many, I don't know which to choose!

3) Wine and Cheese Tasting

While purusing Pinterest I also found great ideas for a wine and cheese party.  

This Chalkboard Contact Paper can be turned into a table runner.  This great idea is from Jackie Fogartie's blog and is available on Amazon.com.  

Pamper everyone's pallete by having great snacks.  This spread from Natasha In Oz shows some great ideas, and the set-up is just gorgeous! 

Even make it a pot-luck and have everyone bring a bottle and a dish to compliment.  

A few more helpful sites:

Squidoo has a huge list of party ideas for grown-ups.  No kid's craft parties here!  So check it out and get creative!

Don't skimp on decorations!  Check out these great guide to the best NYC based florists from Gotham Magazine.  

OK, that's all for today my Pampered Party Planning Proteges.  Have a wonderful time and don't forget to pamper yourself!

Pamper My Hurricane

☂ Pamper My Hurricane ☂

So, as Sandy is dancing her way over to NYC I've been thinking about the best way to #PamperMyHurricane.  It's really no different then pampering any quiet night at home...hopefully!  

Here are a few quick ideas to make the time at home more pampered.  Whether you're braving the storm with family and friends or a glass of pinot and a good book, here are some great ideas to keep entertained.  

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1 - Pamper My Face

  

1) No cabin fever here!  I turn nights like these into a spa getaway.  There are so many great recipes online for DIY beauty products.  I did a little improvisation on this concoction from Garden of Beauty and looked at what I had in my fridge to come up with this recipe.  Try it out and e-mail your thoughts to Pam@PamperMyStyle.com - can't wait to hear! 

Pumpkin Face Mask

•  tsp pumpkin puree (see below for instructions, or substitute with canned pumpkin)
• 1/2 tsp honey
• 1/2 tsp milk (I substituted this for Almond milk)
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon spice (Note: while this can be nice astringent for some, it can also create a mild allergic reaction in others. To be safe, conduct a skin patch test — if it burns, leave the cinnamon out of this recipe.)

Mix the ingredients into a paste and apply to a freshly cleansed face. Let dry for about 15-20 minutes and rinse off with water.

For the puree: Cut pumpkin and reserve just the flesh — seeds, stringy matter and skin discarded. Steam pumpkin for about 15 minutes, or until a fork goes in smoothly. Puree in a food processor or blender until smooth, but not watery.

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2 - Candlelit Yoga 

I got this idea from the classes I take at Sacred Sounds Yoga in NYC.  Every night of the week they have a beautiful class lit only by candle glow. 

Create the same feeling in your own house by turning down the lights (or losing power :), and rolling out your mat.  Just freestyle a few poses.  I also like to Pamper My Mind and do some meditation.  For more on that check out last week's blog post.  

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3 - Get Organized

You may not think that cleaning out your closet as a good way to pamper yourself.  However, Lisa Woodingham from Kimberly Boutique in West Hartford Center explains here why it's the perfect activity! 

Check out this video we made for our Pamper My Closet post for Lisa's advice:

So, clean out and clean up...just leave the bag of donation clothes by the door until it's safe to go outside again!  

That's it for now...until I think of more fun ways to pamper the night away!  Best of luck to all my #pamperedproteges, stay out of harm's way and here's to an easy storm.   

Pamper My Mind

❧ Pamper My Mind ❧

This week I want to talk about all the tools I use to challenge myself and grow mentally.  So often we get caught up in the lull of everyday routine and forget how important it is to confront our thoughts your grow our intellect.  I know, I know - may seem like just another thing to add to your list of "to-do's" but the tips I am going to share in todays post have helped me expand my mind in ways I never thought possible.  In turn, these realizations have helped me deal with my day to day life in a more effective and serene manner.  So, it's really time well invested. 

So, keep an open mind and let's get it pampered! 

1. Volunteer-ism!

One of the most meaningful parts of my week is the volunteer work I do at Hunter College with their Jumpstart Program.  You can read more information about the program here. Giving back to my community and teaching young people life lessons is an incredible way to grow mentally and spiritually.  It keeps me grounded and I learn so much from the young people with whom I work.  

To learn more about volunteer opportunities in your area, check out Volunteer Match.  They will help you find the right type of volunteer work for your location and interests. 

2. Read a Good Book 

Pampering your mind is all about giving reverence to those whom you respect.  There are so many wonderful books on spiritual and mental growth and I'd like to share with you some of my favorites here.  If you click on the picture below, it will link directly on where to purchase a copy for yourself.  Also, be sure to check out Audible.com to download them on your phone/iPod and listen to them on the go.  A great way to pamper your morning commute!  

    

I also recently attended the Fashion Forward conference here in NYC and sat next to the author of Falling Apart in One Piece, Stacy Morrison.  It felt as if this book was written for me personally.  The eloquence that Stacy portrays in her writing is incredible and I identify to so much of her story.  Part of the reason I started Pamper My Style is to empower myself in this new, post-divorce, life.  Stacy explains her empowerment process and more in this touching memoir.  Pick up your copy today!  

3. Take a Class

Weather it's art, pottery, computers or theatre - find a local studio or school that is offering classes in something you find interesting and sign up!  I just started taking acting classes at John Pallota Studios and it has been a great addition to my routine.  I get to meet people who share my interests and learn about something great in the process.  

Not sure where to start your search?  If you don't live in NYC, it may seem intimidating to find what is offered. Check out your local community college, the Y or your local Chamber of Commerce!

4. Get Your Om On!

I was introduced to Yoga and meditation years ago and since I have started the practice, I can't speak too highly of its benefits.  When home in The Hamptons, I visit Ananda Yoga in Southampton.  They do a wonderful retreat every year and their intensive workshops keeps my practice fresh and fun.  

I also try to make it to a Yoga retreat once a year with Mary Angela Buffo, owner of Ananda Yoga.  This year we are off to Puerta Vallarta for Yoga, Sun, and all-around relaxation!  Learn more about the workshop here.  

Or check out Yoga Journal's events website to research yoga and retreats being offered by studios near you! 

As for meditation, a lot of yoga studios will either teach a meditation course or will be able to tell you where to find one.  I try to meditate for 5-10 minutes everyday, even if it's just in the shower.  Taking those few moments in your otherwise hectic day to center yourself and ask for guidance is an invaluable part of my routine.  

5. Write It Down

Sometimes just the simple act of getting words down on paper helps you see everything so much clearer.  When I am dealing with troubling things in life, or even to document my happiness I like to sit down and journal.  

But - there is a way to pamper your writing....of course!  

Get a notebook you REALLY love.  It will make the experience of putting pen to paper that much more enticing.  Leave the notebook by your bed, or in your nightstand and commit to jotting down the events of that day before bedtime.  

Here are some of my favorites:

Customizable Travel Journal from Etsy.com ($30.00)

Simple, Elegant and in my favorite color!  Available at  Time Traveler ($15.00)


Ok #PamperedProtges, that's all for today.  But, please keep in mind that I want to learn from you just as you learn from me.  So please, reach out and let me know your favorite ways to expand and explore to keep your mind fresh and growing!

Thanks for reading and don't forget to pamper yourselves! 

  

http://www.amazon.com/Falling-Apart-One-Piece-Optimists/dp/1416595562

Pamper My Bath

Here at Pamper My Style we want to inspire you to pamper all areas of your life.  With the guidance of lifestylist, Pam Pollak - we want to share with you the little tips, tricks and products on how to live life luxuriously.  So, make yourself a cup of your favorite tea, sit back and relax as we journey into the world of all things pampered.

✺ Pamper My Bath ✺

OK...we've gotten the boys out of the way in last weeks post, Pamper My Man.  So, now it's on to us!  The bubble bath is emblematic of living the pampered life.  Studies show that pampering yourself once a week is good for your health (how could it not be?!) and a bubble bath is simple, attainable and with the right products can be just as luxurious as having a full day at the spa!  

Here is our collage board of ideas and, as always, I'll explain everything out with more tips and tricks tucked in to the nooks of this post.  

We recently did a photo shoot at my home in the Hamptons all about pampered baths and it got me thinking about all the ways I like to create the perfect bath environment.  Here are some pictures from the shoot and some discoveries I made when really sitting down to think about creating a spa sanctuary inside your own home.  

1.  Pamper Your Bubble Bath 

I love Laura Mercier.  I know, I've mentioned it once or twice  - but you can't blame a gal for knowing what she likes!  I recently visited the Laura Mercier 5th ave location and was reminded of all the wonderful bath products they have.  Check out some of my favorites products to create a relaxing and soothing bubble bath here: 

Almond Coconut Milk Honey Bath, Available at LauraMercier.com ($40.00)

Almond Coconut Milk Scrub, Available at LauraMercier.com ($46.00)

2. Pamper Your Shower

I know with the winter making our mornings darker and darker, it's just too much to wake up and get in to a bath everyday.  So, I wanted to share some great ways to pamper your shower, when bubble bath time will just have to be reserved for the weekends.  

In doing more research for this post, I wanted to expand my horizons and try out new products.

So, I reached out to Kristen Arnett (shown below) - High Fashion Make-up Artist, Founder and Editor-In-Chief of Green Beauty Team; a curated e-zine dedicated to sharing the best and brightest from companies focused on all-natural, holistic beauty products.  

Kristen Arnett - Founder of Green Beauty Team

She suggested a company called Bella Roma, an eco-elegant skincare line with great looking products like sulfate free shower cream!  The Brazillian Coffee is said to tighten skin and wake you up with an infusion of caffeine in to your morning routine.  Or, try the Milk and Honey combo"... inspired by Miss Cleopatra herself, are well known because they were part of her daily skin and beauty bathing regimens." 

Exfoliating Whipped Coffee Shower Cream - Available at Bella Roma Boutique ($11.50)

Cleopatra Milk and Honey Shower Cream - Available at Bella Roma Boutique ($11.50)

3. Candles, Candles and more Candles

Wether you are spending your afternoon soaking like Cleopatra or just taking a 20 minute serenity moment, I cannot overstate the importance of candles.  As you know, I am a big believer in Voluspa.  

The scents are intoxicating and the quality just can't be beat.  I loved two of their new frangrances so much I've included them in our upcoming Pamper My Style Luxury Gift sets....available for pre-order now! 

My tip for creating a perfect candlelit paradise.  Get one statement candle for scenting purpose and then fill the rest of the space with small votive candles (as seen in the picture below from our photo shoot).  It creates a wonderful ambiance without overpowering your sense of smell. 

Here are the two scents that will be available as part of our gift sets:

Voluspa Branche Vermielle, Available as part of our Pamper My Bedroom Gift Set at PamperMyStyle.com

Voluspa French Vanilla Bourbon, Available as part of our Pamper My Man Gift Set at  PamperMyStyle.com 

4. Pamper Your Travel Bath

As part of our Pamper My Man Gift Set , I have chosen to include a wonderful travel set from Antica Farmacista.  The scents (Aqua and Grapefruit) are appropriate for either men or women and is a wonderful way to keep a pampered toiletry bag.  Pair this with the travel tin candle (shown above) from Voluspa and you'll be sitting pretty anywhere in the world!  

Antica Farmacista Pampered Travel Set, available as part of our Pamper My Man Gift Set at  PamperMyStyle.com 

5. Sing me a Lullaby 

Here I wanted to share with you some of my favorite albums (new, new-ish and classics) to place the needle down on when you're ready to really create an ambiance of relaxation.  

I'm not sure if there is a person left on earth that doesn't have this album.  Adele's soothing voice, wonderful melodies and incredible composition allows you to soak your bath blues away! 

This new album, Little Broken Hearts, by Norah Jones is a great addition to your collection.  It's sweet, fresh and if there is a more soothing voice than Ms. Jones's I would like to hear it!  

Our last featured lady is a staple in any womans music collection - Sade.  Her voice covers you like warm bath water and the familiarity of this album creates a comfortable and secure environment when I am looking to get to optimum relaxation mode!  

6. Once Again, Wine Down

Hopefully you heeded this advice in my Pamper My Season blogpost.  The Hot Toddy Recipe, Pumpkin Hot Chocolate and Wine recommendations shown there are certainly all sip-able in the tub.  

However, when soaking for a good while I prefer something a little lighter and more lady-like.  That's when I go for Domaines OTT Rose.  With a reputation of being the "finest Rose in the world", it's only the best for my #pamperedproteges!  

Domaines OTT Rose, Available at Domaines-OTT.com 

Well, that seems to about cover it for this week's post.  I hope you find the tips and tricks here helpful and I look forward to hearing your thoughts!  Have a wonderful week and don't forget to pamper yourselves!  

Pamper My Man

Here at Pamper My Style we want to inspire you to pamper all areas of your life.  With the guidance of lifestylist, Pam Pollak - we want to share with you the little tips, tricks and products on how to live life luxuriously.  So, make yourself a cup of your favorite tea, sit back and relax as we journey into the world of all things pampered.

☛ Pamper My Man ☚

Hey #pamperedproteges!  

In today's post we are going to get a little steamy and talk about all the ways to show your man how much you care.  Now, I will be talking some about that special guy in your life - but don't forget that most of these ideas are applicable to most of the men in your life.  So, have fun with it and take time to show appreciation for the quality beaus in the world - they really are a special bunch! 

1) Pamper HIS Style

I discussed how to Pamper My Season in last weeks' post.  Most of the tips and tricks shared there can apply on pampering your man's style.  But, oftentimes the XY gene-holders, need a little extra help.  Some of the staples for your closet are helpful for giving guys that little extra push into this fashion century.  

Pamper your guy with a beautiful sweater, like this cable knit sweater from Ralph Lauren.

Ralph Lauren Cable Knit Sweater, Available at Macy's ($350)

For a more economical option, check out this beauty - now on SALE!

Ralph Lauren Shawl Pullover Sweater, Available at Macy's (Sale $89.99)

Don't forget about the feet, either!  Great shoes make a huge statement with any outfit and send a message to the rest of the world - this man is taken care of!  So, if he has a favorite pair, get them cleaned up and resoled for the winter season or pick him up some new ones.  

Here are my favorites:

JM Weston Shoe, Visit JM Weston for where to buy (Starting at $500)

Kitchell Shoe, Available at Aldo ($110)

2. Pamper his Palette

We all know the saying "The best way to a man's heart is through his stomach" and it's just too true to ignore in a post all about pampering a man.  So, here are some great autumn friendly recipes that are sure to have him wanting more...

Goulash over Egg Noodles

Recipe Courtesy of Smitten Kitchen

If you can tell me a more manly sounding dish that Goulash - I'd like to hear it!  This recipe is from one of my favorite go-to blogger/cooking sites Smitten Kitchen.  Not only is the food photography fantastic, everything Deb shares with her readers is too.  A true inspiration!  

Goulash

Adapted from Gourmet, December 1994

Goulash can be made into either a soup or stew, and the latter can be spooned over egg noodles, potatoes or even gnocchi–how awesome does that sound? Also: This tastes so much better the next day, it is almost a shame to eat it the day you make it. Trust me.

Makes about 16 cups, serving 12

5 slices bacon, chopped

3 pounds boneless chuck, trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch cubes

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

4 medium onions (about 1 1/2 pounds), chopped fine

3 garlic cloves, minced

3 tablespoons paprika (preferably Hungarian sweet*)

1 1/2 teaspoons caraway seeds

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup red-wine vinegar

1/4 cup tomato paste

5 cups beef broth

1 to 5 cups water or beer (use the former to make a stew, the latter to make a soup)

1 teaspoon salt

2 red bell peppers, chopped fine

In an 8-quart heavy kettle cook bacon over moderate heat, stirring, until crisp and transfer with a slotted spoon to a large bowl. In fat remaining in kettle brown chuck in small batches over high heat, transferring it as browned with slotted spoon to bowl.

Reduce heat to moderate and add oil. Add onions and garlic and cook, stirring, until golden. Stir in paprika, caraway seeds, and flour and cook, stirring, 2 minutes. Whisk in vinegar and tomato paste and cook, whisking, 1 minute. (Mixture will be very thick.) Stir in broth, water, salt, bell peppers, bacon, and chuck and bring to a boil, stirring. Simmer soup, covered, stirring occasionally, 60 to 75 minutes.

Season soup with salt and pepper. Soup may be made 3 days ahead and cooled, uncovered, before chilling, covered. Reheat soup, thinning with water if desired.

* New Yorkers, we actually found this at Gristedes. Non-New Yorkers, Gristedes is a totally generic grocery store. Oddly, Whole Foods didn’t have it, but they could have been out. Looks like it is available on the Web as well.

Next up....dessert!  How could we forget?  The smell of this recipe cooking in your kitchen may cause a lot of babies to be made.  Don't blame me - you've been warned!  

Men love bacon, right?  Check out this wonderful recipe from Eat The Love for Bacon Peanut Brittle 

3. Pamper His Bedside

When getting ready to put together the perfect Pamper My Man giftset for Pamper My Style (my line of luxury gift sets available later this fall) I decided to concentrate on the spot in a man's life that is one of the first things he see's when he wakes up....his nighstand.  So, I worked with some wonderful luxury gift, home and accessory companies to come up with great items for a man to keep right by his bed to keep him organized and pampered. 

As it stands right now, after months of planning...here is a sneak peek of just some of the items we will be including to help pamper that special guy in your life.  

May as well check him off the gift list now, your shopping is done! 

French Vanilla Bourbon Candle from Voluspa

Classic Bedside/Travel Clock

Sferra Throw in Chocolate

For more information on our gift sets and to Pre-order, click here

4. Pamper His Travel

A quick nod to the traveling business man.  It's so important to remind a man of home when he travels.  Here are some items to keep him calm and relaxed while away from your arms.  

Included in our Pamper My Man gift sets is a wonderful linen toiletry set with luxury products from Antica Farmacista.  Included in the travel pack is an Acqua Body Moisturizer, Acqua Bath & Shower Wash, Grapefruit Shampoo, and Grapefruit Conditioner.

Boys and their toys, right?  I generally wouldn't even try to venture in to this territory.  But, I recently found a wonderful way to  Pamper his Travel and feed the insatiable need for new gadgets!  

These headphones from Bowers and Wilkins are the pinnacle of luxury sound and comfort.  They come in their own quilted traveling case, are outfitted in a soft leather throughout and the sound is incredible!  You will be the coolest chick on the block with a gift like this...

Bowers and Wilkins P5 Hi-Fi Headphones, Available at Apple.com ($299.95)

5. Pamper His Don Draper

If you're a fan of the show Mad Men, you know that Don Draper sure likes to throw back a couple of cocktails.  A great way to pamper your man at the end of a long work week is to pick up a bottle of his favorite scotch, whiskey or bourbon.  

If you are like me, you are at a loss to know good from bad, so I researched this helpful guide of quality bottles to help us out:  

20 Great Bottles under $25 (Courtesy of Esquire Magazine)

6. The Pampered Touch

Simple, easy and every man appreciates it...give him a good massage!  Again, I am not liable for the babies that may result - but enjoy it and make sure he knows how to pamper back!  

Well, that's it for this week everyone!  Thank you so much for reading and, as always, don't forget to pamper yourself!