Now that Christmas is over, New Year’s is up next! Since New Year's Eve falls on a Saturday, why not take that Sunday (New Year's Day) to celebrate (and recuperate) with the first brunch of 2012? Since everyone will be tired (er, and probably hungover), keep it simple! What You'll Need: Champagnes/Sparkling Wines Fruits Eggs (any style) Your favorite salads Any leftovers from the night before What... CONTINUE READING 7

Spending the holidays with your loved ones is tons of fun...but getting there can a real drag. Even if you're traveling to a warm, sunny island sans any annoying family stress, there's a lot of stuff to plan for—and a lot of stuff that could go wrong. Travel safely and problem-free with these easy holiday traveling tips! Traveling far? Leave a... CONTINUE READING 5

The months of November and December are supposed to be joyous times—getting together with family and friends and going to parties—but let’s face it; the pressure is on. What to get who, what to wear, should I invite my new love interest home for the holidays? How can we stop this madness? I know it sounds counterproductive, but take a breather... CONTINUE READING 9

Yesterday, we brought you the scoop on an Urban Fondue Party from Hospitality Expert Emillio Mesa! Today, we've got the yummy recipes to go with it. Enjoy the eye candy, then get cookin'. Cheese Fondue Ingredients: 1 Garlic cove, cut in half 1 Cup dry white wine 1/2 lb. shredded Gruyere cheese 1/2 lb. shredded Emmentaler cheese 1 Tbsp. lemon juice Pepper Directions: Shred/grate both cheeses (can mix together!). Rub the garlic inside... CONTINUE READING 7

If you’ve ever held a dinner party, you know how much work is involved. The preparations are time-consuming, taking care of guests can be stressful and cleaning up is a nightmare. Wouldn’t it be great if there was an exciting and simple alternative? Enter…the fondue party! Fondue is a Swiss and French dish of melted cheese served in a communal pot... CONTINUE READING 8

Happy first day of fall! Emillio Mesa shared some of his tips for throwing a stellar autumn soiree, but we bet you were wondering what to serve at the party. Check out Emillio-approved fall fare right here. Autumn Crisp Drink This fall-focused bev has just the right amount of bite. Vodka kicks up autumnal ingredients like cranberry juice and Elder Flower, and... CONTINUE READING 13

This Friday is the official start of autumn, so it’s time to get all you haute hostesses party-ready for the fresh season! Event planner extraordinaire Emillio Mesa is back, this time with tips and tricks for throwing a fantastic fall fête without busting your budget. My step always gets a little brisker when I feel the first cool bites of fall.... CONTINUE READING 14

Now that you’ve sent out the invitations, chosen a theme and bought the decorations (see Emillio’s tips on planning and cooking for the perfect Labor Day party), it’s time to brush up on your party etiquette. Do you fancy yourself little Miss Manners? Well, see hospitality expert Emillio Mesa’s party dos, and tell us if you agree! A Labor Day weekend... CONTINUE READING 15

The holiday weekend is almost here, so now it’s time to really get things cookin’! Hospitality expert Emillio Mesa is back with Labor Day brunch recipes that are sure to be a hit this weekend. And what better way to unwind and forget about work than with deviled eggs, fresh fruit skewers and mimosas? YUM. Deviled Eggs with Turkey Bacon and Chives Ingredients: 12... CONTINUE READING 22

Holiday parties can be challenging, from knowing who to invite to choosing the perfect decorations. And with the long weekend fast approaching, some of you may be looking for help as you plan the perfect Labor Day celebration. Fear not, because event planner Emillio Mesa is here to share his best tips for throwing a laudable Labor Day party. Read... CONTINUE READING 14