Make dessert a little bit sweeter with these adorable hand painted wooden spoons by Shop Sweet Lulu.  The demitasse-sized spoons measure 4.5 inches long and come in three patterns – Bright Stripes, Bright Chevrons and Confetti Dot.  Each package retails for $8.00 and comes with 20 one-time-use spoons that would be perfect for a kids birthday, outdoor party or dessert table.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Shop Sweet Lulu

Chocolatier Katrina Markoff is known for her exotic truffles that take us around the world through her handpicked spices, flowers, nuts and flavors. Now the founder of Vosges Haut-Chocolat is bringing us home for the holidays with her new box of seasonal truffles.

With flavors such as Marrone Pistachio (Italian chestnuts, Sicilian pistachios, milk chocolate), Plum Pudding (plum, Armagnac, dark chocolate), Peppermint Candy Cane (peppermint candy cane, dark chocolate) and Eggnog & Jamaican Rum (Appleton rum, Grenadian nutmeg, ginger, white chocolate), these rich truffles will make you nostalgic for old fashioned family traditions.

Bring a box of 16 holiday truffles ($43) for your gracious host or tuck them under the tree but make sure to eat them within ten days as they are highly perishable.  Somehow we don’t think that will be a problem…

And a special gift to all of our Notes on a Party readers…Vosges is offering a 15% discount on purchases made through December 31st, 2011.  Enter the code “VosgesFriend” at checkout to receive your discount.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Vosges Haut-Chocolat

Think of them as couture tailors for your tabletop.  Made on special order by a team of artisans, Leontine Linens creates tableclothes, runners, placemats, guest towels, dinner and cocktail napkins from the finest quality linens.

Nothing is kept in stock because everything is custom made to a client’s specifications from the color of the linen to the finishing trim to the style of the monogram. Linens can be hemmed or hemstiched while various styles of monograms with one, two and three letters are either embroidered or appliqued in a wide range of colors.

Some of our favorites color and monogram combinations (from top image to bottom) include the Kinsey orange applique monogram on brown linen; the Rollins green embroidered monogram on white linen; the Dorea red applique monogram on sandlewood linen; the Ruthie two-toned embroidered monogram on white linen; the Etienne espresso embroidered monogram on antique gold linen; and, the Forrester shaded embroidered monogram in oriental poppies and bisque on white linen.

Visit the web site to place an order or to set up an appointment.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Leontine Linens

Votive candles are to event planners what throw pillows are to interior designers – accent pieces that can complete a look and create some ambiance.

These glass votives are brightly hued with bold patterns inspired by Asian and European motifs.  Each set of six candles features a variety of prints that are unified through one color such as green, yellow or red which ties together the mix-and-match aesthetic.

Available for $54 per set on Terrain, an online mecca for home, kitchen and garden accessories.

PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of Terrain

Colorful, contemporary and filled with Eastern promise, British designer Jasper Conran has created a new collection of tea cups, coffee cups, serving bowls and dessert plates for Wedgewood called Kilim.  The designer was inspired by the intricate geometric symbols, vibrant hues and tribal motifs found in prized kilim carpets.

The platinum-banded fine bone china features colors and patterns that can be mixed and matched for a luxe gypset look.  Ranging in price from $40 for a mini mug to $125 for a cup and saucer set, the collection can be purchased via the Waterford Wedgewood web site and at fine retailers.

We envision using the china for a bohemian tea party hosted in an English garden or a forest…the Mad Hatter would definitely approve.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Marko McPherson (thumbnail) and courtesy of Wedgewood

We weren’t born just today. There have been masters before us.  Words by Philippe Starck to explain his latest design, a new product called the Masters Chair, which might be considered a furniture mash-up of three of modern design’s most iconic chairs:  Arne Jacobsen’s Series 7 Chair; Eero Saarinen’s Tulip Armchair; and, Charles Eame’s Eiffel Chair.

Designed with Eugenie Quitlet, the Masters Chair ($244) combines lines from these three contemporary masterpieces to create a new chair for Kartell, made from polycarbonate in a matte finish in a variety of colors.

The sinuous lines of the chair paired with a sleek glass table or even a rustic wooden table would make quite a statement at your next party.  The lightness of the chair and the fact that it could be used both indoors and outdoors would make it versatile choice for event furniture.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Kartell

Cookies made by happy people make people happy.  The philosophy of baker Eleni Gianpoulos of Eleni’s has proven right since she launched her company back in 1996.  Her “conversation cookies,” in the shapes of animals, fruits, flowers and coveted everyday items have delighted dessert lovers both young and old as well as a long list of celebrities such as Marchesa designer Georgina Chapman, Kelly Ripa and Gossip Girl star, Blake Lively.

Eleni’s is best known for their playful illustrations which can be found on hand-iced sugar cookies that are both nut-free and kosher.  There is literally a design for every occasion from bridal showers to birthdays and for every type of recipient from the stylish hostess down to the corporate client.

For the fashionista or girl-about-town, we like giving Designer Shoes ($75), 18 shoe cookies in the season’s latest styles.  For the animal lover, the Dog Park gift box ($65), 24 cookies in the shapes of furry mutts, fire hydrants and dog bones, is an adorable choice.  And, who wouldn’t want a box of Butterflies ($65), which includes 14 exotic monarchs, as a thank you gift?

To order Eleni’s cookies, visit the website at www.elenis.com or call 1-888-4-Elenis.  For those of you living in New York, take a trip to the Chelsea Market at 75 Ninth Avenue to visit Eleni’s retail store.  Custom designs and one-of-kind commissions are available.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Eleni’s

Everybody loves a winner. Especially the baker-du-jour who created the Bourbon Ginger Pecan Pie, a rich pie filled with toasted pecans, maple syrup, bourbon and, not one, but three variations of ginger – fresh, ground and crystallized.  It’s no surprise that the melange of sweet flavors in this pie took top prize at the Annual Brooklyn Pie Bake-Off.  It also gave baker Allison Kave the name of her new pie company – First Prize Pies.

We are crazy for the mini pies – four inch versions ($4 each) that come in All American flavors including S’mores, Apple Cheddar and Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel.  Order one for each of your dinner guests for a delicious mismatched dessert hour. But, watch out because the forks at your table will be flying!

Order online for mail delivery or local delivery in New York.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of First Prize Pies

Washing your hands before dinner is an unusual experience when the soap is actually shaped like little hands.  Made of all natural glycerin, the Handsoaps, which are made by hand) by Marie Gardeski, started out as an art project during graduate school.

After completing an installation of 2500 doll-like hands made of soap, the artist needed to dispose of her materials so she started to leave the tiny soaps in public restrooms and to give them away to friends.  The soaps quickly developed a cult-following and are now a best-selling item on her online shop, Plastic Foliage.

Slightly creepy yet adorable at the same time, the Handsoaps come in groups of ten hands in various shapes, skin colors and sizes ranging from half an inch to two inches tall. The Handsoaps come packaged in a green organza gift bag and retail for $18.

A truly original hostess gift, these little soaps are bound to make your party guests linger in the loo for just a little longer than normal.  At least you know their hands will be clean!

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Plastic Foliage

Savon de Marseille, the iconic bottle of French soap made famous by its fresh, all natural scents and bold, minimalist typeface, has been redesigned in celebration of the brand’s 20th Anniversary.  La Companie de Provence commissioned Marseille artist, Stephan Muntaner, to create original illustrations, that spoke to the creative culture and ancient architecture of the renowned sea port, for their limited edition soap.  Three commemorative designs named after different fish – La Girelle, La Maquerean and La Sardine – are for sale this year in limited supply.

Available in 16.9 fl oz glass bottles ($28), the new scent contains top notes of mandarin and blood orange with middle notes of jasmine and peony mixed with base notes of vanilla, tobacco and sandalwood.  As with all products by the legendary French company, the soaps are hypo-allergenic, anti-bacterial and free from artificial colorants and animal products.  Without a doubt, Savon de Marseille would be a gift that any chic hostess would appreciate…

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of La Companie de Provence

Indulge in your chocolate fantasy.  Vosges Drinking Chocolates, intended to be savored in tiny sips, can certainly be served hot but we prefer them chilled.  The Couture Cocoas Gift Box ($55) includes three unique and incredible flavors:  Bianca, white chocolate with lemon myrtle, lavender flowers and vanilla; Aztec Elixer, dark chocolate with Mexican ancho, chipotle chillies, ceylon cinnamon and madagascar vanilla bean; and, La Parisienne, dark chocolate with madagascar vanilla bean.

For a simple yet decadent dessert for your dinner guests, blend the drinking chocolates with ice and serve in tall shot glasses.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Vosges

]]> http://www.notesonaparty.com/index.php/2010/06/22/coveted-vosges-drinking-chocolates/feed/ 0 http://www.notesonaparty.com/index.php/2010/06/11/coveted-night-igloo/ http://www.notesonaparty.com/index.php/2010/06/11/coveted-night-igloo/#comments Fri, 11 Jun 2010 13:56:02 +0000 Celia Chen http://www.notesonaparty.com/?p=932 read more]]>

Imagine the dreamy glow of these candles illuminating your al fresco dinner table this summer. Created by Parisian design company Tse & Tse, The Night Igloo is made of delicate porcelain that is crafted into a thin shell to cover your tea light candles.   Not only do they protect the flame from any outdoor breezes, the igloos make a whimsical centerpiece or a beautiful decoration for a window sill or mantle.

Sold at the online retailer Horne, the white igloos ($59 each), which have an organic feel to them, come either riddled or striped in a glazed or matte finish.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Horne

Forget about the fancy fruit garnish, the coolest way to dress up your cocktails this summer is with a little bling inside your glass.  Cool Jewels by Fred Products are ice cubes that come in the shape of faceted gemstones.  Made of food-grade silicon, the ice cube tray features six different jewel cuts and can be filled with water or juice.   To make the cubes resemble rubies, emeralds or sapphires, tint the water with some food coloring. These dazzling ice rocks would be a clever addition to your next Girls Night In, bachelorette or Academy Awards viewing party.

The Cool Jewels Ice Cube Tray ($10) is available online at retailers such as FredFlare.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Fred Products

Make an impression at your next night of networking with Brooklyn Social Cards, the latest venture from Breck Hostetter of Sesame Letterpress and Rebecca Kutys of Moontree Letterpress.  Created out of a demand for their elegant business and social cards, the two designers streamlined the ordering process by putting it online.

The designers have edited the collection to feature the best options for layout, paper stock, ink color and decorative icons.  There are 15 card designs in total that can be printed in one or two colors on either bright white or natural white stock.  Icons range from a playful bird and bicycle to designs that might connote one’s profession including a whisk and a camera. A variety of ink colors from lilac to orange to black are available or custom inks can be created from Pantone colors.

Sized at 3″ 1/2 x 2″, the one color cards come in bundles of 250 for $250 or 500  for $325. The two color cards are $350 for 250 and $500 for 500.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Brooklyn Social Cards

From the Seattle design studios of Jamie Iacoli and Brian McAllister comes an industrial inspired collection of furniture, lighting and design objects. We especially love their mini pedestals which are made from vintage brass candlesticks found in thrift stores.  The unique candlesticks are sand blasted and powder coated (given an industrial paint finish) in bright shiny colors.  Once a hand finished white Corian top is added, the item becomes a whimsical cake stand that can be used for desserts, sandwiches, floral arrangements, potted plants or as decor.

The one-of-a-kind pedestals come in a range of colors including Magenta, Turquoise, Yellow, Red and Black.  Each item is typically priced from $85 to $120 and available for sale on the gorgeous home accessories site, Gretel.

From April 5th to 15th, 2010, the pedestals on 30% off on Iacoli & McAllister’s web shop.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Iacoli & McAllister

It may be surprising to know that some of the most delicious olive oil in the world comes from a 550 acre ranch in Northern California. McEvoy Ranch, located in the rolling hills just west of Petaluma, produces a Tuscan style extra virgin olive oil that is medium bodied with aromas of fresh olive fruit and a rich, slightly peppery finish.

The oil is emerald in color at the time of harvest and then mellows to a bright greenish gold. Certified organic, McEvoy Ranch’s 2010 Traditional Blend olive oil comes in a 375 ml bottle for $22 or 1 gallon jug for $176.

A coveted gift for foodies or aspiring home cooks, McEvoy Ranch features a range of custom baskets. Our favorite pairs a bottle of their Traditional Blend olive oil with a jar of McEvoy Tuscan Blend Table Olives, a stainless steel olive oil spout and a small handmade dipping dish all packaged beautifully in a decorative metal tin.

The gift basket, which retails for $50, is available online or at the McEvoy Ranch store in the Ferry Building in San Francisco.

PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of McEvoy Ranch

Leave it to the French to come up with one of the most mouthwatering flavor pairings of all time – sweet caramel and salt. Petite Bouchée, an artisanal candy maker in Los Angeles, pays homage to salted caramels – the traditional treat from Brittany – by following French techniques of mixing small batches by hand and using the finest, all natural ingredients.

A rich blend of Tahitian vanilla and butter caramel topped with flakes of hand harvested salt, their Fleur de Sel caramel is their most popular.  Other original flavors include Red Hot, a cinnamon spiked version as well as Gingersnap which has warm hints of ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg.

Petite Bouchée, which means “little mouthful,” in French, features a 3 oz bag (10 pieces) for $6.00 and a 6 oz bag (20 pieces) for $11.00.  Charming, reusable gift tins containing 20 caramels are priced at $14.00.

Available online and at select California stores.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Petite Bouchée

Make happy hour a stylish and simple affair by filling a Michael Aram nut bowl or olive dish with a selection of savories to accompany your favorite cocktails. We like this little hand hammered olive bowl from the Bronzed Botanical Collection.

“I love the idea of an object’s function being reflected in its form,” explains Aram. “The Olive Branch Dish holds olives … it’s a perfect reflection of this poetic symmetry.”  And, it’s pretty gorgeous as well!

The Olive Branch Dish ($75) is made of stainless steel and oxidized bronze.  For more condiment and snack bowls by Michael Aram, visit their website.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Michael Aram