Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Beach/Coastal Theme Mini Cupcake Platter

Running out of party ideas on dessert presentation? Need something not too time consuming, cute, fresh and inexpensive? If you're hosting a beach or coastal theme party and need to give your dessert bar some love... here's how I put this little set up together ---



my own creation for my sister's bridal shower

  


What you'll need:

  • brown sugar (for sand), the amount depends on the quantity of cupcakes and platter size
  • cupcakes (homemade, catered or store bought) topped with Aqua colored icing or any color of your choice
  • seashell mold
  • white chocolate chips or candy melts 
  • food coloring
  • small seashells for added decoration
  • shallow plastic party platter/tray


What to do:

Follow the instructions on how to make white chocolate candy or refer to other recipes online how to achieve this, just add in a swirl of food coloring before pouring into the mold and allowing to harden. Stick to the color of your motif. This is the only step that will need a little bit of time :)

In a party platter, pour the brown sugar in and spread thoroughly, pack down if you wish. This represents our sand element.*Note: add white sugar if desired to give a more lighter sandy look.

Arrange the mini cupcakes, white chocolate candy shells and real seashells on top of the brown sugar, avoid overcrowding. Set on serving table covered with linen or any material that presents a classic beachy feel.


Other tips:
You may also include a few starfishes, conk shells, tea light candles (consider battery operated ones if there are children around to avoid fire hazard) and such as added decor to your tablescape! A lantern can also give that authentic coastal touch to the overall presentation.
 
Have fun and enjoy the rest of the Summer!


Monday, September 1, 2014

Haul plus Product Review (Michael Todd True Organics) - Summer Skincare Routine

Hope ya'll are enjoying summer! I've been meaning to post product reviews on my blog especially when something works for you, if the product is great then talking about it and recommending it to others may be the best help you can offer someone with the same or similar situation you are in. My skincare routine has changed since the  past year and have taken the natural or organic route in taking care of face. This whole summer this is how my complexion has been spending it's time...



http://www.michaeltoddtrueorganics.com/

I first got to sample one of their products - the Jojoba Charcoal Facial Scrub - thru one of my monthly Ipsy bag subscriptions last year. It has a spa-like scent, very pleasant and soothing. I especially love how it is not harsh at all on the face. I first started with the Discovery kit for Anti-Aging and just loved how it worked for me that I ended up sharing it with my teenage son who was going through the breakout phase since it helped clear my complexion. I felt he could benefit as well from this kit. I then purchased the Discovery Kit for Acne or Oily Skin, which suits me better because I do have oily skin. Through these Discovery Kits I've found a better way to cleanse, heal and prevent further damage to my skin as I age. I was hooked once I noticed my skin's improvement the very next day! I've never encountered a skincare product that yields results within days let alone hours. I typically have to use the item for at least 7-10 days to see it's effects or minimal results. This line made a TRUE big impression on me!


All the products in the photo above worked great for my skin type but I especially love the benefits of their Clear Bi Light! This technology is something I thought I could never afford but when my sister  purchased her Bi Light through a special promo, I waited for it to come again and finally got mine! #happyshopper

The blue light helped eliminate germ causing acne or blemishes and the red light increased the healing process of my skin due to promoting circulation in the treated area. All the products worked well together and I highly recommend this system.







Love your skin, treat with a quality skincare line that uses organic ingredients and promotes it's benefits. No one wants to damage their skin by applying all kinds of chemicals on it, sure there are other companies out there that have the same claims on their products but are more costly. Michael Todd True Organics offers the benefits of natural components with the technology that makes sense and is within consumers reach.

If you are a working mom like me and are on a budget, I suggest you sign up for Living Social and download the app. Michael Todd True Organics has promos or sales from time to time but it helps to have that extra discount #LetsBeReal