tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31328352832017377462024-03-25T23:45:29.618-07:00Fresh Ideas... adventures of a caterer who embraces anything creative. event design, culinary instruction, decorating, crafting, writing, sharing, family, delicious food, wandering & more! Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-259903671466422412015-10-10T10:07:00.001-07:002015-10-10T10:07:19.605-07:00Playful Office Baby Shower<span style="font-size: large;">I found these amusing baby shower pictures from an office party Richard and I catered last October. The hostess, Sheri, has a delightful sense of humor which made it fun to create a "tongue in cheek" menu for the party.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj21gmubpCFYGbOTkMJdcQcqsEjj0DJSyVQpqjlPCDduKRWdLStfHTJzXqh8JkqiUFFxSwb7VsUVXw_WCUVFlUY0f908RoETEZNtKDXq08RjrrR2xP4zUqo49cbLEFwgdkeWymPHHesMS4/s1600/IMG_0704.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj21gmubpCFYGbOTkMJdcQcqsEjj0DJSyVQpqjlPCDduKRWdLStfHTJzXqh8JkqiUFFxSwb7VsUVXw_WCUVFlUY0f908RoETEZNtKDXq08RjrrR2xP4zUqo49cbLEFwgdkeWymPHHesMS4/s640/IMG_0704.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; text-align: left;">To create a menu that is fun and entertaining, start with a list of dishes that will appeal to a variety of appetites. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large; text-align: left;">Here are some suggestions for success;</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large; text-align: left;">Be sure you consider "good taste," especially in an office setting. </span><span style="font-size: large; text-align: left;">Re-naming dishes and s</span><span style="font-size: large; text-align: left;">elect clever serving pieces to reinforce the theme, both are an easy way to have fun with the menu and guests love it.</span><span style="font-size: large; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;">
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Here</span><span style="color: #660000; font-size: large; text-align: left;"> </span><span style="font-size: large; text-align: left;">is the menu for Sheri's event if you can use to add some whimsy to your own baby shower!</span><ul>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-size: x-large;">Playful Office Baby Shower</span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;"><i>Menu for 25 guests</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">Lamaze-gna</span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;"><i>creamy spinach lasagna with a plump belly</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">Brats in a Blanket</span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;"><i>sausages wrapped in pastry served with grainy mustard</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">Baby Greens Salad with Baby Bottle Dressing</span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;"><i>candied pecans, raspberries and Mandarin oranges</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">Conception Eggs with "Swimmer" Garnish</span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;"><i>black olives top stuffed eggs </i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">Savory "Lollipops"</span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;"><i>deli meats and cheeses in a wrap, sliced and skewered</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">Watermelon Baby Carriage</span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;"><i>Fruit Salad</i></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9clpkbjFJpCkgIPmuoAPEPvLiA5tnB6malNSiRZdCom7xwS9cvwuWw1iFTKeOyQZbRvZeuYUKWMh1yxnnzlpqsg6WJA7fz_kz1z7_GOIHoU27wwPADqryD99VZOki7xjRsqB1lSXWVjQ/s1600/IMG_0686.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9clpkbjFJpCkgIPmuoAPEPvLiA5tnB6malNSiRZdCom7xwS9cvwuWw1iFTKeOyQZbRvZeuYUKWMh1yxnnzlpqsg6WJA7fz_kz1z7_GOIHoU27wwPADqryD99VZOki7xjRsqB1lSXWVjQ/s640/IMG_0686.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fruit salad in a watermelon baby carriage</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiwkdIdu8iBdqQMHzbLik4xBuAUE66YFswaakDN4UZJv9HJZf4NnYTFaRnyVXvTD-gnwUUJyurdPsZbI1WJDTtlCRKpEzXOycdZAwr6wx5vOf4SevcMaQG0WGcG2A4oufvV5MZQevw6qM/s1600/IMG_0688.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiwkdIdu8iBdqQMHzbLik4xBuAUE66YFswaakDN4UZJv9HJZf4NnYTFaRnyVXvTD-gnwUUJyurdPsZbI1WJDTtlCRKpEzXOycdZAwr6wx5vOf4SevcMaQG0WGcG2A4oufvV5MZQevw6qM/s640/IMG_0688.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Swimmers" decorated stuffed eggs</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8yOH2rzKnZITvmNFvT8Sfh2wD1Swe1q_k-4n90saaELLUX-xIWKAuVURD-kb3Twl1csMInpPctGj8lj5zf2pYq3AnnQLhsTpArHBthdy0lPn2DeuonfLhFZJH7M2PuIouyCWzSrrYjIw/s1600/IMG_0697.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8yOH2rzKnZITvmNFvT8Sfh2wD1Swe1q_k-4n90saaELLUX-xIWKAuVURD-kb3Twl1csMInpPctGj8lj5zf2pYq3AnnQLhsTpArHBthdy0lPn2DeuonfLhFZJH7M2PuIouyCWzSrrYjIw/s640/IMG_0697.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lollipop Pinwheel Deli Skewers</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2FzsHwQkpVurPDifLwDlqtprktQld3fHYlbZVQ3pXNpw6dT8O5IZXV4Yhyphenhyphen8yajQ0t3GK6bhfOnL9N1umAHXd2v_jte_bH5Xj2f92blxp9DHXgClDBE0NnGQ44vc-hQcno1Ro-4t1wCKU/s1600/IMG_0702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2FzsHwQkpVurPDifLwDlqtprktQld3fHYlbZVQ3pXNpw6dT8O5IZXV4Yhyphenhyphen8yajQ0t3GK6bhfOnL9N1umAHXd2v_jte_bH5Xj2f92blxp9DHXgClDBE0NnGQ44vc-hQcno1Ro-4t1wCKU/s640/IMG_0702.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> "Brats in a Blanket", brat sausages wrapped in pastry</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuw0P0npANpWN5l5-cGjIQMkojBMgWZFTQaTMybhgSCMv5JVP8a44g8fZSOuDpuA85k370PdB2L3uEi1FEQWHd6aLjjzGivvvzBQFLDSoY970wL5jVvzJY0nnp9W-EBBvAppK2h2DnrSI/s1600/IMG_0705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuw0P0npANpWN5l5-cGjIQMkojBMgWZFTQaTMybhgSCMv5JVP8a44g8fZSOuDpuA85k370PdB2L3uEi1FEQWHd6aLjjzGivvvzBQFLDSoY970wL5jVvzJY0nnp9W-EBBvAppK2h2DnrSI/s640/IMG_0705.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Raspberry Vinaigrette served in a baby bottle</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I didn't find the picture of the "Lamazegna" I used the Spinach Lasagne from my recipe in<a href="http://www.cooklikeacaterer.com/" target="_blank"> Cook like a Caterer</a>. I added some extra filling in the middle to make it look like it had a "baby bump" giving it a theme name (a play on Lamaze) is fun too. The stuffed eggs recipe, the quantity of fruits needed for the fruit salad and the raspberry vinaigrette are also in the cook book at <a href="http://cooklikeacaterer.com/">cooklikeacaterer.com</a>.</span>Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-58185046810304025432015-09-28T12:37:00.004-07:002015-09-28T12:37:52.889-07:00 Fall Soups and Stews- Curry Butternut Squash Soup <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8S6JBAsA8KJX7xsEjYyAfDZ6_SFJ6CS2TBBf123FJnolDfNLfGjXygT0Ek1-Coq31K_QlsNOXO2hbagGyJ6CuQLHJR1k3x6sxwA0oq2eTQcdeN_BdtGfI0md0UijuNgvtlnmSJBTX0Oo/s1600/IMG_0686.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8S6JBAsA8KJX7xsEjYyAfDZ6_SFJ6CS2TBBf123FJnolDfNLfGjXygT0Ek1-Coq31K_QlsNOXO2hbagGyJ6CuQLHJR1k3x6sxwA0oq2eTQcdeN_BdtGfI0md0UijuNgvtlnmSJBTX0Oo/s640/IMG_0686.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful fall colors from our apple picking adventure last year</td></tr>
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It's hard to decide what season is my favorite to cook in. Winter begs for baking, spring calls for salads and summer barbecue is a must. In Fall making comforting soups and thick hearty stews is what I most look forward to. The desire to whip up a soup must be instinctual because the weather has not actually suggested soup as yet. However with autumns calendar arriving it's good to be prepared.<br />
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At the recent cooking class for the nice folks at the Santa Fe Springs Public Library, time allowed for me to teach only three recipes. Narrowing it down was difficult, there are more great choices then cool days to enjoy them in the weeks ahead!<br />
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In the end I chose a Mexican Albondigas Soup, small seasoned meatballs in a light broth that can host additional vegetables and even a bit of rice to be a little more filling. Tuscan Chicken White Bean Stew, a delicious thick and healthy crock pot meal that can be made with simple pantry items. Finally Curry Butternut Squash Soup that is creamy rich, velvet smooth and is everything from color to flavor intensely fall.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmZco3NqZHvDjsPJ70ZvD6ToYiOJ2Z0zjgy96PIPxjqyc7h0o9V7U9izyWtqmW8sMNkMl0POk-qdD5Mcu4a_PO92b5pSUDOKbUJTj7BN8vScn-fshainxI-7eXVWxun9VN-C1HQBGONPU/s1600/IMG_4962.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmZco3NqZHvDjsPJ70ZvD6ToYiOJ2Z0zjgy96PIPxjqyc7h0o9V7U9izyWtqmW8sMNkMl0POk-qdD5Mcu4a_PO92b5pSUDOKbUJTj7BN8vScn-fshainxI-7eXVWxun9VN-C1HQBGONPU/s640/IMG_4962.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Creamy, smooth Curry Butternut Squash Soup served in hollowed mini pumpkin.</td></tr>
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Today lets explore my favorite Curry Butternut Squash Soup. <i>Why, yes!</i> The recipe serves 32, a "party sized recipe" from my book <a href="http://cooklikeacaterer.com/" target="_blank">Cook like a Caterer</a>. It makes a huge pot perfect for entertaining and to fill up the freezer for the cool months ahead. Cutting the recipe in half makes a generous amount, but don't shy away from making it... soup is for sharing!<br />
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<span class="s1">Curry Butternut Squash Soup</span></h2>
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<span class="s1"><i>Many first time tasters are surprised that the curry in this recipe is not overwhelming and the color is as delicious as the soup. Curry butternut squash soup is especially nice for a Fall party and is charming served from a mini hallowed pumpkin.</i></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>Serves 32</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>8 tablespoons olive oil</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>8 cups onions chopped</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>6 teaspoons curry powder</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>1 teaspoon ground ginger</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>1 teaspoon cayenne pepper</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>8 quarts butternut squash cubed</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>3½ quarts chicken broth</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>3 cups heavy cream</b></span></div>
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<li>Heat oil in large pot, add onions. Cover and cook over medium heat until soft, stirring often (about 5 minutes).</li>
<li>Add curry powder, ground ginger and <b>½</b> teaspoon of cayenne, stir 30 seconds. Add squash and broth, bring to a boil and reduce heat to medium low. Cover and simmer until squash is very tender (about 30 minutes).</li>
<li>Puree soup in batches, in blender, until smooth.</li>
<li>Return to same pot. Stir in cream and add salt, pepper and cayenne to taste.</li>
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<span class="s1"><b>COOKS NOTE</b></span></div>
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<li>Vent blender when pureeing soup to keep steam from building up.</li>
<li>The soup can be made in advance up to where the cream is added and will freeze well. </li>
<li>You can decrease the curry for a milder flavor or substitute pumpkin pie spice if you like.</li>
<li>Serving in hallowed out mini pumpkins is great for a plated single serving... a larger pumpkin is great on a buffet.</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM2bsuRDd7BFhGT4xyAWL3NiLhJrQ8Zel8EIRODSTQu5krEW9L9X8UFhS66mGlOzy191Fr-HhLm8jnwhcJmvuGfUPIeAWws8do6O2AS25AJLuWLZwhEB1oKRM2WO4NUb8PboBJfdQfzC0/s1600/IMG_2240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM2bsuRDd7BFhGT4xyAWL3NiLhJrQ8Zel8EIRODSTQu5krEW9L9X8UFhS66mGlOzy191Fr-HhLm8jnwhcJmvuGfUPIeAWws8do6O2AS25AJLuWLZwhEB1oKRM2WO4NUb8PboBJfdQfzC0/s640/IMG_2240.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz17DUKiI7mt-10EemaUe3VH1slSVJN8VCaVslrUoOpJ101BQRBQHC7i2jqbN2p47cIESZVq-WQh-a7oDp08j0_x6AFGxNm3XxKcv8IgNKCvOGM9-euZ45jPRHVbBho8BOk-_sI14GzZg/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz17DUKiI7mt-10EemaUe3VH1slSVJN8VCaVslrUoOpJ101BQRBQHC7i2jqbN2p47cIESZVq-WQh-a7oDp08j0_x6AFGxNm3XxKcv8IgNKCvOGM9-euZ45jPRHVbBho8BOk-_sI14GzZg/s640/unnamed.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Darling mini pumpkins and gourds make great vessels for soup and to add to your fall decor!</td></tr>
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<br />Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-89824207235871096282014-05-24T16:38:00.002-07:002014-05-24T16:42:36.007-07:00Catering 100th Birthday Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZnB8SjVegDkRi0ORwYtKSTE9Y3AUCGGzJdk9dCTXH5ogDT9WtehDgrzBM4OzaGVy5wDpSdn3sUfwqqxBkcCekIPA72W0QwPiO7GZk-Fq9c4EbQd9XsxdM_L4HkwJzuJIQgz3Dfz8n9Ak/s1600/flower2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZnB8SjVegDkRi0ORwYtKSTE9Y3AUCGGzJdk9dCTXH5ogDT9WtehDgrzBM4OzaGVy5wDpSdn3sUfwqqxBkcCekIPA72W0QwPiO7GZk-Fq9c4EbQd9XsxdM_L4HkwJzuJIQgz3Dfz8n9Ak/s1600/flower2.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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I look forward to catering birthday parties. I know when I do, it will be fun occasion filled with family and friends reminissing and enjoying a meal together. A landmark birthday is even more cause to celebrate... but when someone turns 100 its time to it's time to do something extra special. </div>
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At Elmers 100th birthday party he was the center of attention for an afternoon lunch and festivities to honor a remarkable man.</div>
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A menu of salads and sandwiches is appealing to any age group. At Elmers 100th birthday party the guests ranged in age between less then 1 to 100! Elmer requested German potato salad loaded with bacon and my favorite, <a href="http://cooklikeacaterer.com/blog/2014/5/23/how-to-make-macaroni-salad-for-a-crowd" target="_blank">Cheddar Macaroni Salad</a>. Recipe can be found on the blog; Cooklikeacaterer.com<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEKBEAGBw70AAN3ufscJXLOVDWHYIwTX-5yrzAAluntHkNyxSdRZUwfasXMuav3vJcRhVrsmDaFHqiEZpJHqI_Tq3rlq8PEyw0WSKmPUFzcoz0B1o8iZYlkdoxUQVcxPzPlVXGBeTt1E8/s1600/salads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEKBEAGBw70AAN3ufscJXLOVDWHYIwTX-5yrzAAluntHkNyxSdRZUwfasXMuav3vJcRhVrsmDaFHqiEZpJHqI_Tq3rlq8PEyw0WSKmPUFzcoz0B1o8iZYlkdoxUQVcxPzPlVXGBeTt1E8/s1600/salads.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b> Menu for Elmer's 100th Birthday</b></div>
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<i>100 guests</i></div>
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Croissant Sandwiches</div>
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<i>Turkey, Ham, Roast Beef, Tomato and Fresh Cheese</i></div>
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Paradise Fruit Salad</div>
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German Potato Salad</div>
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Cheddar Macaroni Salad</div>
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Vegetable Tray with Buttermilk Ranch Dip</div>
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Tres Leches Cake</div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPgopkRH3oiaEqC14mUgAgk85oWQimA-vQQLeddepAnPIVMAzv0MHTQoUM0rdE18LN9L3rfa7MaShwnvRdomb8nTphikKaDsvMkgz2S27xbSl8FiNUATggByct6jEhyL8TTgzjXtmmQ0g/s1600/bev+stattion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPgopkRH3oiaEqC14mUgAgk85oWQimA-vQQLeddepAnPIVMAzv0MHTQoUM0rdE18LN9L3rfa7MaShwnvRdomb8nTphikKaDsvMkgz2S27xbSl8FiNUATggByct6jEhyL8TTgzjXtmmQ0g/s1600/bev+stattion.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">A simple self service coffee, iced tea and water bar is a easy way to offer drinks to guests.</span><br />
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Guest of honor Elmer, loves yellow. His favorite flower is carnations which I used in the cheerful centerpieces. Happy Birthday Elmer!!! And many more!<br />
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Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com56tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-1610446784312093762013-11-20T16:26:00.000-08:002013-11-20T16:26:30.168-08:00Thanksgiving, Simple Is Big <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSWqcdQnFA8T3sPiORRYZEyOtksoHJCti362p2S78A-6KBn0xCetzebaZT3hHk_pQKTXCjmtOSGDOKjZmgmUeHN8wmFLqReH5rSnXY7_xT7ke72AyUw5DQ5WbsZzwkIdp6UuFwQx86Jwg/s1600/pumpkin+cheesecake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSWqcdQnFA8T3sPiORRYZEyOtksoHJCti362p2S78A-6KBn0xCetzebaZT3hHk_pQKTXCjmtOSGDOKjZmgmUeHN8wmFLqReH5rSnXY7_xT7ke72AyUw5DQ5WbsZzwkIdp6UuFwQx86Jwg/s640/pumpkin+cheesecake.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pie? Nope, I love Pumpkin Cheesecake</td></tr>
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Squeezed between Halloween and Christmas is a beautiful holiday called Thanksgiving. Most of us grew up with an idyllic idea of what Thanksgiving should look like and taste like. A cozy house of friends and family who are hungry and gracious, sitting before a feast as seen on the cover of Bon Appetite. We imagine an effortless holiday, from a stunning centerpiece to lump-less gravy. In our efforts to achieve such lofty goals we often miss the opportunity to actually enjoy it. <br />
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If Thanksgiving is at your house this year and your vision for its success is the magazine quality spread with a family bonding experience, you might consider a more simple approach. What's not to love about a simple well prepared meal, affordable decor and easy execution? I realize that simplifying a holiday that is the super bowl of meals seems odd but give it a try! Long after the leftovers a stress free holiday gathering will be your reward.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Artichoke, Leek and Spinach Gratin</td></tr>
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Here is 10 suggestions from the kitchen to the table that will help make your Thanksgiving easy as pie.<br />
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<b>Guests-</b> Review your intended guest list. Consider how far they will be traveling, age group, dietary concerns before you fix the time and set a menu. Time the day by considering if your out of town guests will have to leave at the crack of dawn or drive home late. Consider if you have guests with food allergies or if they are vegetarian. Older guests may not enjoy spicy foods or avoid sugar. The children may do better with a hearty side dish, like macaroni and cheese.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLoIHKY1L1B_ZC5vgtbEE_Pj0UnABTl0PgZSUo4VT4gHWbAm_gjAHTCOv5qSdTHE7wzj7iueCsa3jD-Qmirh4zAijJauNnmHn0OgRUOFvfC5ivAXeF7nsfD5kaprLBu5SuurKRQbLADow/s1600/IMG_0254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLoIHKY1L1B_ZC5vgtbEE_Pj0UnABTl0PgZSUo4VT4gHWbAm_gjAHTCOv5qSdTHE7wzj7iueCsa3jD-Qmirh4zAijJauNnmHn0OgRUOFvfC5ivAXeF7nsfD5kaprLBu5SuurKRQbLADow/s200/IMG_0254.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<b>Menu</b>- Start with a simple plan of soup or a salad, main dish, one to two starches, vegetable, bread and dessert. Add additional dishes after carefully considering your time and cooking space available. Let guests who offer bring support dishes bring them. Use quality purchased items to help with filling out the menu without making your job harder. Don't feel like you have to serve traditional dishes, try to include dishes unique to your family.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMiko7Z9nQTt0P9n6euDOEOtvWWU-VMQphIc3TkvA3zl3Zoj8hAqyDU7qF46wc3pVy4Eg_IPl28sagXBfUvSgd8ys3xHx7KG9ISSeJ19h9r_VU0fypD2bdYSKXBy1PftCNr8w2P3HgXvc/s1600/-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMiko7Z9nQTt0P9n6euDOEOtvWWU-VMQphIc3TkvA3zl3Zoj8hAqyDU7qF46wc3pVy4Eg_IPl28sagXBfUvSgd8ys3xHx7KG9ISSeJ19h9r_VU0fypD2bdYSKXBy1PftCNr8w2P3HgXvc/s200/-1.jpg" width="200" /></a><b>Planning- </b>Build a time line that lists all activities from housekeeping to guest depart time. Be accurate to make sure you to schedule the time item needed to go in or out of the oven. Check to make sure you haven't planned anything needing the same cooking appliance. This will slow your march to the finish line. Lay out all your platters, serving tools and dish-ware ahead of time so they are in reach when needed.<br />
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<b>Shopping- </b>Once you set a menu, divide it into two trips. One to buy all the shelf stable items and those that can stay frozen until prep time. Trip two should be for produce and perishables. Do not shop without a list and make sure you checked off everything you already have at home. Check expiration dates on items you don't use often to make sure they are fresh. Allow 4 to 5 days in a refrigerator for a turkey to thaw. <br />
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<b><br /></b><b>Housekeeping-</b> Ideally all deep cleaning projects should be finished week ahead and only tidy up needed (we all know how that goes!)<b> </b>Plan B is to stash clutter and stick to cleaning main traffic areas and the restroom. Prepare the kitchen for work by freeing the counters of excess appliances and collectibles. Clear out the fridge and freezer to store only the foods you need. Condiments and bottled drinks can be stored temporarily in an ice chest to gain more space.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhOpRVFnelUm5c2umDplBSFhvENRpouYAxS4WOUN39x_QKp1TaAHhJL-jVAIbqg1CVWkx9J60ssV8iq2tWvlyOsLDjfkirgrXgjRUVzkdWwr12vN87vWk4oRmwO3Kd9SClodxlsT0__sk/s1600/cialtro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhOpRVFnelUm5c2umDplBSFhvENRpouYAxS4WOUN39x_QKp1TaAHhJL-jVAIbqg1CVWkx9J60ssV8iq2tWvlyOsLDjfkirgrXgjRUVzkdWwr12vN87vWk4oRmwO3Kd9SClodxlsT0__sk/s200/cialtro.jpg" width="200" /></a><b><br /></b>
<b>Prepping- </b>Chefs call it mise en place... "everything in it's place" meaning get it ready to roll! Don't under estimate how long it takes to get the basics done. Cut up vegetables and wash greens ahead and wrap in clean towels. It's okay to peel potatoes a day ahead and keep in the fridge in water with a few drops of lemon. You can measure seasoning and dry ingredients out for your recipes even a week before, just label, bag and set aside.<br />
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<b><br /></b><b>Decorating</b>- Use seasonal fruits, nuts, squash, gourds and pumpkins to decorate. Fall colored leaves found on a walk can add a splash of color to your home. To keep as much room as possible on the table, centerpieces should be simple and low. Gather some small vases, arrange candles and fill with fall colored branches.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIQ7U9Mmfbg_ZAvi-pq_5c50s2f4O6ryD6RQAntd5sQwLwp0Gs87iZRliikMOuP34n2eeHdRbfGPM5pgsRHFwb14VzJg2PQigeJeiTCEF6VTPbdJvw8Yr-o3xlzhRUZEk1JSgcs8XZQjk/s1600/111410tabletop-4_rect540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="136" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIQ7U9Mmfbg_ZAvi-pq_5c50s2f4O6ryD6RQAntd5sQwLwp0Gs87iZRliikMOuP34n2eeHdRbfGPM5pgsRHFwb14VzJg2PQigeJeiTCEF6VTPbdJvw8Yr-o3xlzhRUZEk1JSgcs8XZQjk/s200/111410tabletop-4_rect540.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<b>Seating</b>- If space allows, try to fit guests at one table with at least 18 inches between settings. If one table is not possible, go with smaller intimate groupings and serve from a buffet so guests can mingle.<br />
Avoid
sticking the children at a "kids" table. Sitting together is an
opportunity to reinforce good table manners and sharing a meal together creates wonderful memories. <br />
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<b>Clearing</b>- Ask ahead for an older child or close family member or two to help with clearing away the dishes. When the time comes it will be smoother to have designated help to move on to each course. For safety reasons put food away quickly, more then two hours in an unsafe range can make leftovers dangerous.<br />
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<b>Grace</b>- Remember the spirit of the holiday. Give a prayer or a toast, read a poem or elect a family member to do so. It doesn't need to be fancy or rehearsed, a simple statement of gratitude is what Thanksgiving is all about.<br />
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<b>My Favorite Thanksgiving Menu Items!</b></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">From Cook like a Caterer Recipes</span></i></div>
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Rosemary Roast Turkey </div>
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Sage and Thyme Dressing</div>
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Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic</div>
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Porcini Mushroom Gravy</div>
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Whipped Yams with Pecans and Cinnamon Streusel</div>
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Artichoke, Leek and Spinach Gratin</div>
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Vinters Salad with Blackberry Balsamic Vinaigrette </div>
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Cranberry, Apple and Walnut Salad</div>
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Pumpkin Cheesecake<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZsCYM4V7AzBa958Rr3Pj5tDG77i2_zxvRh572h0jJSgBiI02vRGNv5L-ns28BpJq_zrHx0xz_ZAcd8Xntz_ZQc7nq9qd6cAH1F2tHx9IH2vWmD8UMbgBAc93n1fYyzL3jZzZqL2avE2s/s1600/vinters+salad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZsCYM4V7AzBa958Rr3Pj5tDG77i2_zxvRh572h0jJSgBiI02vRGNv5L-ns28BpJq_zrHx0xz_ZAcd8Xntz_ZQc7nq9qd6cAH1F2tHx9IH2vWmD8UMbgBAc93n1fYyzL3jZzZqL2avE2s/s640/vinters+salad.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vinters Salad with Blackberry Balsamic Vinaigrette</td></tr>
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<br />Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-20196202322886682392013-10-06T13:18:00.000-07:002013-10-06T13:18:01.888-07:00Menu for a Baby Shower Brunch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">OH BABY!!! </span>Last week I catered a very special shower. I guess every baby shower is special, but hostess Sherry truly went OVER-THE-TOP with a vintage inspired baby event that photos can't do justice. Donna, Sherry's daughter in law, is a prop wizard and event planner who can transform any venue into a wonderland...She created the look and feel for this brunch in what seemed like only a few hours. Talented people like Donna, make it look easy!<br />
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Every nook of Sherry's pretty backyard was treated to a nostalgic vignettes of vintage inspired decor in a soft palette of champagne, pink, lavender, sage, butter yellow and chocolate. Donna created comfortable seating areas of various sized tables and varying heights with eclectic toys, children's books and floral centerpieces to highlight the theme.<br />
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My contribution to the day was the menu and catering brunch stations for guests to visit. Hostess Sherry, selected Omelette's, Crepes and Beignets for the main station dishes and fruit, pastry, and sides. Tray passed items were available when guests arrived.<br />
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<b> Omelette Station</b></div>
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Made to order omelet's with fillings including; <i>mushroom, tomato, bell peppers, green onion, jalapeños, keilbassa, ham, cheese, salsa, sour cream, and hot pepper sauce.</i></div>
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<i>Thick Cut Bacon, Sausage Links, Roasted Baby Dutch Potatoes</i></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A chalk board from a vintage tray to let guests know the station options.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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<b>Crepe Station</b></div>
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<i>Hand made Crepes filled with Chicken Breast or Spinach & Mushroom, served with a creamy mushroom sauce</i></div>
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<b> Beignets Station </b></div>
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<i>Hot freshly prepared Louisiana Style donuts with dusted in powdered sugar</i></div>
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<i>Served with Chocolate, Pomegranate or Strawberry Sauce</i></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rolling out Beignet dough in view of pool</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nothing like a freshly made Beignets!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guests use snow cone cups for fresh Beignets.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<b>Fruit and Pastry Table</b></div>
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<i>Croissants, Zucchini bread, Chocolate Chip mini bundts, lemon pumpkin bread, cranberry scone, blueberry mini muffin, pumpkin bread, </i><i>butter and peach preserves.</i></div>
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<i>Fresh sliced fruit and berries</i></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This darling little tray passed appetizer was the hit of the party...who can resist fried chicken and waffles?</td></tr>
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<b>Tray Passed </b></div>
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Fried Chicken and Waffle Bites</div>
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Endive with Chèvre Pear and Pecan</div>
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Smoked Salmon Bagel with Red Onion Jam and Chive</div>
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Vintage baby blocks make great accents for a baby shower. I like to use them in glass vases to hide floral stems or in glass cylinders for pillars to hold glass at stations. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Sherry's lovely backyard baby shower and Donna's creative creative decor.</td></tr>
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Such a beautiful event... best wishes for baby!</div>
Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-56513729965776984672013-09-10T15:48:00.001-07:002013-09-10T15:48:35.654-07:00Catering A 50th Anniversary Luau<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH8wgIMVWZ0fpnJTs8U6hGzJeVvkkfxnjftBf6D9k5PxtvNyNjcSwG_6TsWTA3lqFlOQoxafM0UhZGRezfBLMxEP67evuU8v11VqIn2Ja2Zyd9yk0af7CA2laf-RYY2EzeLiFEbL-lgyk/s1600/Luau+Appetizer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH8wgIMVWZ0fpnJTs8U6hGzJeVvkkfxnjftBf6D9k5PxtvNyNjcSwG_6TsWTA3lqFlOQoxafM0UhZGRezfBLMxEP67evuU8v11VqIn2Ja2Zyd9yk0af7CA2laf-RYY2EzeLiFEbL-lgyk/s640/Luau+Appetizer.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Fond memories of Hawaiian celebrations motivated Ruth and Wayne to nix the idea of a stuffy, fussy, gold leafed 50th Anniversary celebration and embrace a colorful tropical themed event. Having catered for the family many years, it was a great honor to be part of such a special occasion.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaZR31yVKvFeyQXCL5fY8SXJeNODOdu9zndX6feBd_uxXPA6FY9qsoZb45ojGEMWMJe88Jp3jqQsZ_OBW8ecUQGRKSOiUGiOzE4IW71gkej1kCqSx4t028URnu1nTTyq6dhwHLftJkRW0/s1600/Luau+Salads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaZR31yVKvFeyQXCL5fY8SXJeNODOdu9zndX6feBd_uxXPA6FY9qsoZb45ojGEMWMJe88Jp3jqQsZ_OBW8ecUQGRKSOiUGiOzE4IW71gkej1kCqSx4t028URnu1nTTyq6dhwHLftJkRW0/s640/Luau+Salads.jpg" width="462" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAMST_WZhElBfpv787xFG74NSEdbKkm9ZR9gstmsPKjmkB6oMyBO6ne7lWy5K3Y1ar_T7oU7n0gasdhwIHbYiZN4pirHBYjmMfB6iGq5yg3cI_WIbsASIW-f6GlAeJbnEmsj4M4q3C2xc/s1600/Luau+Hot+Dishes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAMST_WZhElBfpv787xFG74NSEdbKkm9ZR9gstmsPKjmkB6oMyBO6ne7lWy5K3Y1ar_T7oU7n0gasdhwIHbYiZN4pirHBYjmMfB6iGq5yg3cI_WIbsASIW-f6GlAeJbnEmsj4M4q3C2xc/s640/Luau+Hot+Dishes.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBcT7tZ18fW_8Fdk4J246K51puz4ALSOufqQt0jwTRlYmCBXHtTk1hqZXVU8X2EpQbaCbggo_kX0YFcbWDRJKEJyrmz5qQMvHL-etEYJiYU8fhAGmb8nJugZckxO0-9k7glQI30e9Ot_Q/s1600/Luau+guests.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBcT7tZ18fW_8Fdk4J246K51puz4ALSOufqQt0jwTRlYmCBXHtTk1hqZXVU8X2EpQbaCbggo_kX0YFcbWDRJKEJyrmz5qQMvHL-etEYJiYU8fhAGmb8nJugZckxO0-9k7glQI30e9Ot_Q/s640/Luau+guests.jpg" width="472" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The Fresh Ideas Crew prepared salads and cooked on site.
Guests enjoyed delicious grilled Teriyaki Chicken and Kalua Pork served
from a theme decorated buffet. The following menu is fresh and simple, perfect for any Luau Style entertaining.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>50th Anniversary Menu for 120</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><b>Appetizers</b></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>Tropical Fruit Array,</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>Island Fresh Spinach Dip with Vegetable Sticks,</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>Pacific Shrimp Cocktail,</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>Spicy Mango Cheese Ring with Crackers</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><b>Buffet Dinner</b></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>Hearts of Palm, Jicama and Papaya Salad</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>with Coconut Green Onion Dressing,</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>Sesame Noodle Salad,</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>Teriyaki Chicken with Grilled Pineapple,</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>Hawaiian Rice </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>Kalua Pork with Guava Habanero Sauce,</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>Assorted Rolls</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><b>Dessert</b></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>Banana Cake</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-NoatipSfXvJClR2Ovj1IOL0tlQms9YNLtCfGC84sUND-wyJ1CbxXRgsjzaMWz-tpg9ix0WG1blhfeHjAy9LxD-nVAHMciMRG-DqQyM5QNTw6299Rcvu4N5SdkfRyNOfgPP2qbmtxMTY/s1600/luau+plate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-NoatipSfXvJClR2Ovj1IOL0tlQms9YNLtCfGC84sUND-wyJ1CbxXRgsjzaMWz-tpg9ix0WG1blhfeHjAy9LxD-nVAHMciMRG-DqQyM5QNTw6299Rcvu4N5SdkfRyNOfgPP2qbmtxMTY/s640/luau+plate.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Plate from the dinner buffet and server, Olivia, setting shrimp out on the appetizer table. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTNfKI9rvHACsiNYJjGVguBqyNLSPGP3HIS-7X7U6gDeNOqczR2gH1eDubvjyfJPryGC72GVKR8FLg2wOSz6lStf_R70SwwxcPE9SvFyr7oPnqu-16jJfoO-t6Sz4dCeyq5wV_4K9oaGY/s1600/Olivia%252BShrimp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTNfKI9rvHACsiNYJjGVguBqyNLSPGP3HIS-7X7U6gDeNOqczR2gH1eDubvjyfJPryGC72GVKR8FLg2wOSz6lStf_R70SwwxcPE9SvFyr7oPnqu-16jJfoO-t6Sz4dCeyq5wV_4K9oaGY/s400/Olivia%252BShrimp.jpg" width="338" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Guest tables are islands of color dressed in poppy, coral, lime and hot pink. The canopy offered shelter from the sun. The temperature soared in the 100's, but the relaxed setting kept guests comfortable.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyJrfHaA995xfx52mTRDhyzQIzpk7e1Ojp6U2-fRQ_2WBH35IeFtPTXg0l5to1enVU3FRmFoa8rW7aunFRLrcNSvMAEJVCZtAFv_zVhxy8TTclHRWm_5MS4a834Deye1CHnA-xbY3GJuY/s1600/Luau+Tables.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyJrfHaA995xfx52mTRDhyzQIzpk7e1Ojp6U2-fRQ_2WBH35IeFtPTXg0l5to1enVU3FRmFoa8rW7aunFRLrcNSvMAEJVCZtAFv_zVhxy8TTclHRWm_5MS4a834Deye1CHnA-xbY3GJuY/s640/Luau+Tables.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Zoi31AvVubgw1hSfpFWq2sYibLE3mlr1hssmMuOQg44poSwFfKjhfS_8YoPNEGtzG6hyphenhyphenT-0Ez88lY_TmoA2TwFVtv_xMZDpZLXFoQdkyWJcqu_Mgm5B1FKVIkm44KgH7FY2UQzl8pKA/s1600/Ruth:Wayne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Zoi31AvVubgw1hSfpFWq2sYibLE3mlr1hssmMuOQg44poSwFfKjhfS_8YoPNEGtzG6hyphenhyphenT-0Ez88lY_TmoA2TwFVtv_xMZDpZLXFoQdkyWJcqu_Mgm5B1FKVIkm44KgH7FY2UQzl8pKA/s320/Ruth:Wayne.jpg" width="310" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Celebrating 50 years of marriage, Wayne and Ruth relax and have fun with family and friends. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The festivities included renewing of vows and inspirational words from those who have been closest to them. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Blessed with a family of musicians, the entertainment was home grown.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Tropical touches on cake tiers blended tradition to theme.
The banana cake is resting on glass vases of various heights. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The vases
hold sea shells I collected and use for tropical events. Other desserts
would also do well presented on clear plates over these same vases.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmQeYzEKeJKweW9o5UnUGzEKWtbv3wXO-yRKlo5Xxu2dNjuHYS9u9YYTzQp_AC9mQFo36YmB8kvyhp3zDiLG7esDKC4pJZm8N5ESPekcwfbgrt5tlmBBNRRuvd7kJL63Jymm7BQSU1rtc/s1600/luau+Cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmQeYzEKeJKweW9o5UnUGzEKWtbv3wXO-yRKlo5Xxu2dNjuHYS9u9YYTzQp_AC9mQFo36YmB8kvyhp3zDiLG7esDKC4pJZm8N5ESPekcwfbgrt5tlmBBNRRuvd7kJL63Jymm7BQSU1rtc/s640/luau+Cake.jpg" width="614" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Very clever, Ruth created these darling treat bags with fun little things to play beach party at home. Island inspired goodies are fairly easy to find in party supply stores or on line to make your own great giveaways. Easy and breezy-sea shells, leis, fish net, Hawaiian print fabric, bamboo items, palm leaves are all affordable items, perfect for low cost party decor.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN3FUF5AXSrsvRFXAcOfzEFRLkpgQJL9YdthsIGopzIa6nwtMpcD4wpVr7s6Z-NAVHsAyvzTIIFNo9ZWlzsBrg1fZChupE-yhugr6DiC8_YuRZNlgLbRYPK_pxM-PMY3oRSk3MpTJHWyo/s1600/Beach+bags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN3FUF5AXSrsvRFXAcOfzEFRLkpgQJL9YdthsIGopzIa6nwtMpcD4wpVr7s6Z-NAVHsAyvzTIIFNo9ZWlzsBrg1fZChupE-yhugr6DiC8_YuRZNlgLbRYPK_pxM-PMY3oRSk3MpTJHWyo/s640/Beach+bags.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">A few simple theme props set the stage and entrance to the backyard event. A collection of island and beach items were organized to create a designated back drop for memorable photos.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGsQ4MGo2il9Vj9WCxywvXcW2PSgI3uzjz1-u8hHgSLnj4kSvYf9XkDn-rxU2KmUAFCrWihthZ6N7PPLP7s-Ax_d2ZTAyWu4aSqGRjBCbYBQPhc_E4BfYAROfiOK2l0E3S-sOL6Ga9eKg/s1600/Luau+sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGsQ4MGo2il9Vj9WCxywvXcW2PSgI3uzjz1-u8hHgSLnj4kSvYf9XkDn-rxU2KmUAFCrWihthZ6N7PPLP7s-Ax_d2ZTAyWu4aSqGRjBCbYBQPhc_E4BfYAROfiOK2l0E3S-sOL6Ga9eKg/s640/Luau+sign.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">While Polynesian style is most often reserved for birthday, retirement
and graduation parties, a Luau will add delicious fun for any special
event. Have you ever hosted a tropical theme event? I'd love to hear your ideas!</span></span><br />
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Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-49062717979767567102013-03-25T20:30:00.000-07:002013-03-25T20:37:13.375-07:00Engagement Party Appetizer Menu <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghI7T5wqi4TNb2j01LA4e84CkGCNV6w6fvW1kVgmLN81jyBv4PkVYHJxi7eCGlr_hN52fvTsgIWNEVuvvwd1_-NU4lTQfBv6lk-iLJvX_lQMXbOC0tW0EcnoFtabndmBx7YI9Z9GjlKm4/s1600/marscaponestrawberries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghI7T5wqi4TNb2j01LA4e84CkGCNV6w6fvW1kVgmLN81jyBv4PkVYHJxi7eCGlr_hN52fvTsgIWNEVuvvwd1_-NU4lTQfBv6lk-iLJvX_lQMXbOC0tW0EcnoFtabndmBx7YI9Z9GjlKm4/s640/marscaponestrawberries.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">I truly realize just how lucky I am. I don't just work in an exciting industry where the special event is king, but the unique opportunity to have a part of those small but monumental moments in a family's life. One such occasion that certainly deserves a celebration is a couple right after the announcement "were getting married!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Isn't it great to be at the beginning? Before the showers, rehearsal and the epic reception....a sweet little gathering to kick it off......<i>an engagement party!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOaAoUcta-PuLztvbtv2ym4NzxwVDf8lM73SbJe3AxRq5hJCGWkPb8mFHDkoA-YOC8jTwn5lY1EZWrFe3rm0IfL4PBbF0aUXnehlCF6UCwK3glgtYaKjDLxgmTeiHk20tWdc_nzQRZxYI/s1600/Engagebuffet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOaAoUcta-PuLztvbtv2ym4NzxwVDf8lM73SbJe3AxRq5hJCGWkPb8mFHDkoA-YOC8jTwn5lY1EZWrFe3rm0IfL4PBbF0aUXnehlCF6UCwK3glgtYaKjDLxgmTeiHk20tWdc_nzQRZxYI/s640/Engagebuffet.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">An engagement party is traditionally thrown by the bride's parents, but many gatherings are hosted by the grooms family, friends or the couple themselves. Plan the event within a few weeks to a couple of months after the engagement. The purpose of an engagement party is to introduce family and your closest friends, so keep your list guest list small. Your entertaining style should allow for guests to meet and mingle, so consider appetizers on buffet as an option.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">When deciding a buffet appetizer menu, choose foods that are portable, simple to eat and appeal to multiple generations. Even if you know the bride and groom to be, you may not know any special diet and eating patterns of the other guests. Having a varied menu will make your guests feel comfortable.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">The following is the menu from an Engagement Party for 40 guests. It offers a balance of hot and cold appetizers as well as many meat free and gluten free choices. More importantly, it's good!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Ginger Sesame Pork Loin Platter with Sesame Noodles</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Caprese Skewers</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Goat Cheese Tart with Red Onion Marmalade </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Roasted Red Pepper Hummas with Pita Chips</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Shrimp Gazpacho </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Crab Stuffed Mushrooms</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Blue Balls of Fire with Raspberry Chipotle Sauce</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Petite Stuffed Potatoes </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Chicken Potstickers with Sweet Chili Sauce</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Sweetened Marscapone Stuffed Strawberries</span></div>
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Arranged on a dining room table these dishes become the centerpiece of the party where best wishes and congratulations add sparkle. The party becomes the kick off for exciting wedding plans and a beginning of a beautiful... celebration marathon!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFno71BvYb21ZpmhhAuvnCWA4Hm4QG883c2VZXkKSjUVd5A7P_eE1OkHzPqytWjKTD_OC8uR9uqUmcF0HLHxv1o5il439-wKfgcBKpCnIwCLHnNp-mRmrW3MQUJhlRhAh9L_64lkxRmJs/s1600/appetizerbuffet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFno71BvYb21ZpmhhAuvnCWA4Hm4QG883c2VZXkKSjUVd5A7P_eE1OkHzPqytWjKTD_OC8uR9uqUmcF0HLHxv1o5il439-wKfgcBKpCnIwCLHnNp-mRmrW3MQUJhlRhAh9L_64lkxRmJs/s640/appetizerbuffet.jpg" width="640" /></a>Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-70354858097280850992013-02-14T16:16:00.000-08:002013-02-14T16:16:12.117-08:00Trip to the Islands Theme Events<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVZfAJhixIzbNEbxkca_wZxNHx8zgqjS1DMch2fBbs5iE9MG23KGm6jEWXza_XXuytE2_ooZyOFkd8RUcXXmNjM9vys5s9oymehBXa_fWv-56UVA27BUvAnAPGFXXl_C3fECv6j-j3ITc/s1600/Luau+girl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="435" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVZfAJhixIzbNEbxkca_wZxNHx8zgqjS1DMch2fBbs5iE9MG23KGm6jEWXza_XXuytE2_ooZyOFkd8RUcXXmNjM9vys5s9oymehBXa_fWv-56UVA27BUvAnAPGFXXl_C3fECv6j-j3ITc/s640/Luau+girl.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I found this picture from a big event summer event I catered in the late '90s. It was a company picnic, although the name of the company and exact menu is as faded from my memory just like the picture... I do remember, however, making over a thousand teriyaki beef and chicken skewers for this event. My staff and I grilled them over hot coals on a very hot summer day, ugh! I did some killer hard events in those day's!<br />
Classic '90s appetizer set up, with fruit and vegetables cascading from a six foot tipped boat with nautical props and tropical floral accents.<br />
The picture below (also faded) was a luau at a large home for a birthday party. We served the food family style on big platters to guests, resting them on the fruit garnished tables. Everyone enjoyed tropical tastes including a whole roasted pig. I remember it was hot that day too. I guess with warm weather is just around the corner...it's hard for me not to think about tropical entertaining!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxj6PRjOKain0TSj7hgn_SEpqEmR90Twn1cWt8ayWtrqaVSuK0jI5S8awrmZ2AqZzKWrmIfg3NYq4h9Nefy502L99AACL2iXruEXMeCEgGUq_t5cDxTDvYZbpDxcIHvRNMeAt-rN8HUro/s1600/Luau+seat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxj6PRjOKain0TSj7hgn_SEpqEmR90Twn1cWt8ayWtrqaVSuK0jI5S8awrmZ2AqZzKWrmIfg3NYq4h9Nefy502L99AACL2iXruEXMeCEgGUq_t5cDxTDvYZbpDxcIHvRNMeAt-rN8HUro/s640/Luau+seat.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hungry for a taste of the tropics? Join me Saturday 2/16/13 (information below) and learn to make Kalua Pork, Kalbi Ribs, Hawaiian Shrimp Rice salad and Banana Nut Bread. Bring the recipes home to make your own feast!<br />
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<b>Trip to the Islands Cooking Class</b>
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<td>Get Ready for a taste vacation from the norm with a tropical dinner
getaway! The island flavors featured in this class have a rich
sweetness and wide appeal. Chef Renee will demonstrate, in cooking show
style, recipes perfect for a simple meal or backyard gathering with
family and friends. The focus will be on Polynesian dishes that are
simple to prepare and feature fresh, easy to find ingredients.</td>
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<td><b>Saturday, February 16, 2013<br />Location: <a href="http://www.ylpl.lib.ca.us/mod.php?mod=calendar&op=list_events&loc_id=1">Yorba Linda Library Community Room</a><br />2:00pm - 4:00pm</b></td></tr>
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<br />Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-34574417493999145632012-10-28T20:32:00.000-07:002012-10-28T20:32:43.735-07:00Cook like a Caterer, October Pic's<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1GgpHcN0hSC_M0Ss8JM_Pw13C0gsCVHvWT1WXPZBntTctQ9hY0Fvo3vcdSyqTe8f0JzfirzXXJqbFbU3GfcYgdwAZmHr3K3H_MJWEMDy137YyQsyimSxsqnGchCa5Fl_658rx5O-kp_E/s1600/Beer+Whipped+Cheese.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1GgpHcN0hSC_M0Ss8JM_Pw13C0gsCVHvWT1WXPZBntTctQ9hY0Fvo3vcdSyqTe8f0JzfirzXXJqbFbU3GfcYgdwAZmHr3K3H_MJWEMDy137YyQsyimSxsqnGchCa5Fl_658rx5O-kp_E/s640/Beer+Whipped+Cheese.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Octoberfest fun with Beer Whipped Cheese-<i> Cook like a Caterer page 54</i></td></tr>
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Bleary eyed...kitchen totaled and with so much food in the fridge, my family is stuffed and ready to hibernate. Only 18 more... yes, 18 more dishes to make and their pictures to take, then I will have prepared and photographed all the recipes in "Cook like a Caterer, Party Sized Recipes for Entertaining" the E book version will be available soon, YEAH!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXWrtM4uRXXAjbNlpKh7rNMyT3DZ5JR_tqWfU2t_JZZG-fSBFJQPaf-jwjpZLOSX1_G5VSlg7-7ijfwrnJ19XI9UM-_MG0SWzO60Q4ZL5SaWwb6et0YJpe5KGF6WV1DcgqypiZTZJqKKE/s1600/IMG_1630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXWrtM4uRXXAjbNlpKh7rNMyT3DZ5JR_tqWfU2t_JZZG-fSBFJQPaf-jwjpZLOSX1_G5VSlg7-7ijfwrnJ19XI9UM-_MG0SWzO60Q4ZL5SaWwb6et0YJpe5KGF6WV1DcgqypiZTZJqKKE/s320/IMG_1630.JPG" width="320" /></a>My goal is to finish this huge task by Halloween, which means blog posting has slipped to the back burner. But with the end so close, I'll break and share some dishes that are fall savvy, delicious and fun!<br />
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We are only days from Halloween... here are a few recipes from the book; <br />
Chili Lime Wings are a great trick <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(recipe page 23</span>)... <br />
leave them whole and call them "Bat Wings" perfect for spooky theme parties. <br />
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Steak on a Stick with Bourbon BBQ Sauce is another great portable treat at a finger food event. <span style="font-size: xx-small;">The recipe is on page 43</span><br />
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It wouldn't be fall without pumpkins, so here is a cute mini pumpkin soup bowl. The soup inside is Curry Butternut Squash Soup, <span style="font-size: xx-small;">recipe</span> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">page107</span><br />
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An easy fun dish for a child's Halloween party, is Tortellini Skewers <span style="font-size: xx-small;">page 45</span>.<br />
Arranging the skewers by sticking them on a cabbage head makes a "scary" tasty treat!<br />
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Just a few days left, hope you have wonderful October!</div>
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Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-24681448626334264192012-09-05T21:37:00.000-07:002012-09-05T21:40:43.152-07:00Tapas for an Exceptional Anniversary Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3J7pwXQ1eyWV3uiqEcLZT8qmE_RwR56HJPm9KGKG97l2pEqLhuPvpaeyT5mB5JWGUlw3P9QFthS1GVx0sMNrtLxY6HL782U3H_JL_mdbOcKzYrFbv9rzLBkiyyJClqiw3gbJgK-r__oI/s1600/-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3J7pwXQ1eyWV3uiqEcLZT8qmE_RwR56HJPm9KGKG97l2pEqLhuPvpaeyT5mB5JWGUlw3P9QFthS1GVx0sMNrtLxY6HL782U3H_JL_mdbOcKzYrFbv9rzLBkiyyJClqiw3gbJgK-r__oI/s640/-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The same weekend we catered the perfect surprise birthday taco party, we had another gem. Since it's hard to believe we could cater two perfect events in one weekend... we'll call it an exceptional party. <br />
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This exceptional party had perky umbrellas dotting a neat stretch of lawn bordered by orange trees and garden roses.<br />
Roses and oranges, oh my!... their scent lingering heavenly in the breeze-less afternoon.<br />
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The sun was very high, very hot and stayed put right over the backyard.While warm like a August summer day usually is, it offered in return the bluest sky ever. A cloudless canopy stretching endlessly overhead.<br />
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A setting as beautiful as the occasion...</div>
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Celebrating 50 years of marriage!</div>
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On the patio, stretched two draped and decorated buffet stations near a babbling waterfall and pond. Koi fish delighted the guests... especially the little ones! Food, beverage and dessert stations enjoyed a lush backdrop.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ9BAPM5htk8YzSaWhtFAza9jNI6jm7NnS5ZcDknNW-sG9_GtoVE6PYNavmAkx_mnM0OUcAxqLN_DmU2jF0699klgq3p-gzo9SPg9PkYLl73jh8yjlWUfWe3d7OZs508ZI0eG2SndsC8o/s1600/Jar+of+olivesjpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ9BAPM5htk8YzSaWhtFAza9jNI6jm7NnS5ZcDknNW-sG9_GtoVE6PYNavmAkx_mnM0OUcAxqLN_DmU2jF0699klgq3p-gzo9SPg9PkYLl73jh8yjlWUfWe3d7OZs508ZI0eG2SndsC8o/s400/Jar+of+olivesjpg.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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When the hostess suggested a Spanish Tapas style menu, I was surprised, delighted and intrigued.<br />
<br />
Tapas are snacks and finger foods, something that I would normally pitch for an afternoon garden party but rarely do I get the go ahead.<br />
I got the go.<br />
Planning a Tapas menu is creative there is so many unique and tasty options. Even if some of the appetizers are labor intensive, they are every bit worth the effort.<br />
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<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>50th Anniversary Tapas Menu</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>110 guests</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span> </div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKBgo5UVZO5mjFXefGhCL5Izbhyphenhyphenc4w3Ii34FGr8yBw-dNXHwH6f6O9_ssbTluAZShZHF1K1rtz3HryAnUaXnJ3MYd-bVwmHHFywV7LgIP-dWcEFpSx0kECwstq2TTFp3R7iv25w6lCO9o/s1600/Fresh+Ideas+Tapas+Platter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKBgo5UVZO5mjFXefGhCL5Izbhyphenhyphenc4w3Ii34FGr8yBw-dNXHwH6f6O9_ssbTluAZShZHF1K1rtz3HryAnUaXnJ3MYd-bVwmHHFywV7LgIP-dWcEFpSx0kECwstq2TTFp3R7iv25w6lCO9o/s320/Fresh+Ideas+Tapas+Platter.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Tapas Platters</span></span><br />
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<i> grilled vegetables, marinated lima beans, cured pork, marinated artichokes, chorizo, marinated mushrooms, pickled carrots, roasted peppers, spanish stuffed olives, manchego cheese, kalamata black olives,</i><br />
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<i> melon wrapped in cured ham, herb goat cheese, dried fruit, grapes and berries</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaaHRSMQ0N44EwESwSZFchOW9g92a736iTWSOUwvUwrdQdN4thKLKMyRrF98_L74nK6-ZCu-LYn-2pUIzSxu5VrjARLQVo6gTmQ4jKpNtbT8sJ0xrlbWX3CTZKNZuvuPQwSKeZS5nYvTM/s1600/Fresh+Ideas+Tapas+Fruit+&+Cheese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaaHRSMQ0N44EwESwSZFchOW9g92a736iTWSOUwvUwrdQdN4thKLKMyRrF98_L74nK6-ZCu-LYn-2pUIzSxu5VrjARLQVo6gTmQ4jKpNtbT8sJ0xrlbWX3CTZKNZuvuPQwSKeZS5nYvTM/s640/Fresh+Ideas+Tapas+Fruit+&+Cheese.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgru8CH7drybSlrHEiNljvXyy9VstqpczJrY1sEUKEORWl03uHo_-WIL4YTTvZfDKES91cgiK3mQW8hviUN1nhdYZBmAWy21tMrj6A4dNfF6-5CuGBgWqT7_xN7RXnFFbsLDxjRurq9p4s/s1600/Chevre+Torte+Cook+like+a+Catererjpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgru8CH7drybSlrHEiNljvXyy9VstqpczJrY1sEUKEORWl03uHo_-WIL4YTTvZfDKES91cgiK3mQW8hviUN1nhdYZBmAWy21tMrj6A4dNfF6-5CuGBgWqT7_xN7RXnFFbsLDxjRurq9p4s/s320/Chevre+Torte+Cook+like+a+Catererjpg.jpg" width="320" /></a>Fresh Summer Fruit <i></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Shrimp Gazpacho</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>with avocado, capers, onion, celery, dried chili, lemons and lime</i></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Chevere Torte with Red Onion Jam</div>
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<i>cracker assortment </i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Chafer Items</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Spicy Stuffed Sausage Mushrooms</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Manchego Cheese Popovers</div>
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Spanish Albondigas</div>
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Chorizo and Black Bean Empanadas</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh7Tc731Yx77FbHPfiQaw5v1VeQlozL13Y4tnLo76zKnLHd5eMopJn5v8A7cTgPEx5vJ5mEr76wHjqdPoOJiYoqB2TOQAplsVrCwo1Pl24NDMcsbNsql3FrGQv_bJmCRoYJA9XmUBZXgQ/s1600/Tapas+Station.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh7Tc731Yx77FbHPfiQaw5v1VeQlozL13Y4tnLo76zKnLHd5eMopJn5v8A7cTgPEx5vJ5mEr76wHjqdPoOJiYoqB2TOQAplsVrCwo1Pl24NDMcsbNsql3FrGQv_bJmCRoYJA9XmUBZXgQ/s400/Tapas+Station.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Station Items</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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Bruschetta freshly Toasted and </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
with Three Tomato Pomodoro Sauce</div>
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Saffron Seared Chicken Skewers</div>
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Sherry and Garlic Braised Beef "Sliders" </div>
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Dessert Cupcakes</div>
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Guests gathered to celebrate five
decades of special memories. All were treated to a exceptional afternoon of music, good food and friendship. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjroVk_gGT5tKATfzBrVl8iSCdJMMRkMiR9HUQG8k0k_1nnQkln3y2hd4Cf96vTfQjwPBTWgxp_EO-y01k9K8kkNNiDIYgnw7XIQ4YwBO7vGsH0W4aTO_uXBwBo4hrcbDNcDXFkG27h3BU/s1600/Vintage+wedding+dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjroVk_gGT5tKATfzBrVl8iSCdJMMRkMiR9HUQG8k0k_1nnQkln3y2hd4Cf96vTfQjwPBTWgxp_EO-y01k9K8kkNNiDIYgnw7XIQ4YwBO7vGsH0W4aTO_uXBwBo4hrcbDNcDXFkG27h3BU/s640/Vintage+wedding+dress.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i> </i><span style="font-family: georgia, bookman old style, palatino linotype, book antiqua, palatino, trebuchet ms, helvetica, garamond, sans-serif, arial, verdana, avante garde, century gothic, comic sans ms, times, times new roman, serif;"><i>"An
anniversary is a time to celebrate the joys of today, the memories of
yesterday, and the hopes of tomorrow." ~Author Unknown</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: georgia, bookman old style, palatino linotype, book antiqua, palatino, trebuchet ms, helvetica, garamond, sans-serif, arial, verdana, avante garde, century gothic, comic sans ms, times, times new roman, serif;"><i> </i></span><span style="font-family: georgia, bookman old style, palatino linotype, book antiqua, palatino, trebuchet ms, helvetica, garamond, sans-serif, arial, verdana, avante garde, century gothic, comic sans ms, times, times new roman, serif;">
</span></div>
Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-87679910576996176362012-08-30T15:57:00.000-07:002012-10-02T21:33:10.161-07:00A Perfect Surprise Birthday-Taco Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsexMTDu0hn8NhhLaW8bNGrXYYy7019TUOMspv5zPsAgua4Dtfehyphenhyphen2nGmr5Zn88_n0XO9QOUch1R6PfX5RtGrAj7zyyUBsTypQVBTNgUhgdGtyQYh3l2urxbJZl9Z3khPOxEw29MZh3KQ/s1600/-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsexMTDu0hn8NhhLaW8bNGrXYYy7019TUOMspv5zPsAgua4Dtfehyphenhyphen2nGmr5Zn88_n0XO9QOUch1R6PfX5RtGrAj7zyyUBsTypQVBTNgUhgdGtyQYh3l2urxbJZl9Z3khPOxEw29MZh3KQ/s640/-4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>There are very few perfect parties</i></span>.<br />
Why? because something always goes wrong. Maybe you forgot the dip, an extension cord, ran short of ice or the sprinklers came on without warning. But last Saturday ... nothing like that happened.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSToOwDd1Rj4Rrt3iU85AYz9VmiYJV8XZjHBOnyrQ6q4B-ax1AhqC6zjBBCXnyV7SIx1ZH33xYWtyDfve_rY_jiRSohV7Dnz8rf3CJI9JXODFhny2tv4zRjoo7SDxeb2U-HPV2jKwxyjI/s1600/-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="532" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSToOwDd1Rj4Rrt3iU85AYz9VmiYJV8XZjHBOnyrQ6q4B-ax1AhqC6zjBBCXnyV7SIx1ZH33xYWtyDfve_rY_jiRSohV7Dnz8rf3CJI9JXODFhny2tv4zRjoo7SDxeb2U-HPV2jKwxyjI/s640/-14.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
The party was <i>perfect</i>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggiT4yDNhCFp-evfcP1erD-EVrYTTEe7JAno3RPDRaEKHICv5XdbxROAIk6S71B1W6GlQccPaF1wctuHRJVRuvjSZKCK7a8gJ5mmGKq20hl8UISmnQa-aFTMe-A7cR2DDYwJ83ISAkay4/s1600/-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggiT4yDNhCFp-evfcP1erD-EVrYTTEe7JAno3RPDRaEKHICv5XdbxROAIk6S71B1W6GlQccPaF1wctuHRJVRuvjSZKCK7a8gJ5mmGKq20hl8UISmnQa-aFTMe-A7cR2DDYwJ83ISAkay4/s320/-21.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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First the guest of honor was surprised. This is good because when you plan a surprise birthday party everyone is thrilled when the honoree is actually surprised! Next, the guests were genuinely nice. It's a pleasure having a part of an occasion when a big gathering of family and friends are eager to make it a special.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc309GgISx7reXnzcSuEcs6OX3lDP-ZFzsAcSMsfd_cEtoNNhwrPqTsr2s4f-zVTPwB8rTP5oAlxiAR58dJhmaVZLTByYqt3AfrbmwmxQ1Rzld8N_rUn_okBY7yXDmU8O2qxUU_Kn-DCI/s1600/-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc309GgISx7reXnzcSuEcs6OX3lDP-ZFzsAcSMsfd_cEtoNNhwrPqTsr2s4f-zVTPwB8rTP5oAlxiAR58dJhmaVZLTByYqt3AfrbmwmxQ1Rzld8N_rUn_okBY7yXDmU8O2qxUU_Kn-DCI/s400/-3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovely setting for a summer party!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The hostess (so sweet you can forgive her for
having the most beautiful home in town and talent for decorating it) chose the "perfect" invitations.<br />
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A fresh and happy yellow in a hue that was ideal
for a casual summer patio party.<br />
The late August afternoon is very warm and balmy 85F, but no one
seems to mind. With the sun comes big blue skies, lush lawns, sundresses
and long evenings with cool drinks and lots and lots of friends. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZdsOqhpc2e3pgwltpmqSP7xShRxY8xCukMsh6Nfv4Juejp5KSwcZC8kQK2KgvrvYRIgP54ZR-8Ic5SSI-yTI3mm11aOmDCfloDTh2xfNz0Z7Fhyphenhyphenh0w-8ize9HAREEsJ_YM6UBqXqIo_Y/s1600/-23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZdsOqhpc2e3pgwltpmqSP7xShRxY8xCukMsh6Nfv4Juejp5KSwcZC8kQK2KgvrvYRIgP54ZR-8Ic5SSI-yTI3mm11aOmDCfloDTh2xfNz0Z7Fhyphenhyphenh0w-8ize9HAREEsJ_YM6UBqXqIo_Y/s320/-23.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Touches of, yellow, crisp white, and a little country were built into the presentation. Everything came together to compliment the relaxed backyard setting.<br />
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For dinner service we took advantage of the great new grill and bar island for the buffet. The
menu was family friendly, everyone loves Mexican!
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We assembled "street style" tacos from seasoned grilled steak and chicken freshly cooked on the new grill and filling the air with a delicious aroma. The tacos were served with fresh salsas, home made traditional side dishes, and appetizers. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9ZC1FqmddqCOhbw_RWfDq4j_D1hskIeJ2FD959XZqiTYObw4fr8e28cMI1NGx1_KaL-sHx_YdYsL3Fvhj_ZFesRaF1PbxulQDs0aqmuKd5sUVHcKqS7_x0ua58DG990wEM3FUWahTBs/s1600/Fresh+Ideas+Buffet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9ZC1FqmddqCOhbw_RWfDq4j_D1hskIeJ2FD959XZqiTYObw4fr8e28cMI1NGx1_KaL-sHx_YdYsL3Fvhj_ZFesRaF1PbxulQDs0aqmuKd5sUVHcKqS7_x0ua58DG990wEM3FUWahTBs/s640/Fresh+Ideas+Buffet.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh Ideas Events,Tacos Party</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Surprise Party Mexican Menu</div>
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<i> for 70 guests </i></div>
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Jalapeno Cheese Ball with Crackers</div>
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Fresh Seasonal Fruit Platter</div>
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Crab and Green Chili Cheddar Dip</div>
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Red Corn Tortilla Chips</div>
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Grilled Vegetable Salad with Cilantro Dressing</div>
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Steak and Chicken Tacos</div>
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Cheese, Lettuce, Sour Cream, Cilantro, Onions, Pico De Gallo, Limes, Green and Red Salsa </div>
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Mexican Rice</div>
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Pinto Beans with Sofrito</div>
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Tortilla Chips</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Dessert </span></div>
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Beautiful Home Baked Cookies and "Pie in a Jar"<i> </i><br />
<i>Made by a family friend</i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJF4YU4PrFjZtJ7RuFfuwrGsHyvoOvwg1wjwBgpUiJkmDpB6wjHuO-lXCF1ECchyphenhyphenIW2A9FjtRS1rNuOmaqmHlACRAzUjh0natM361hov0eNLAwlM3YMRuUVUJX6Nz_cluU-PCfPNaUdyE/s1600/-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJF4YU4PrFjZtJ7RuFfuwrGsHyvoOvwg1wjwBgpUiJkmDpB6wjHuO-lXCF1ECchyphenhyphenIW2A9FjtRS1rNuOmaqmHlACRAzUjh0natM361hov0eNLAwlM3YMRuUVUJX6Nz_cluU-PCfPNaUdyE/s640/-19.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh Ideas Event Services, Party Fruit Tray</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEQBFJp1SVO_r0NWEIK-TwwpCd5fwpINoKUvT7MmgMJonuytrkEGntXAgdU43oPLyK0hy5Ouzhv9NQfjvj_UUEoSfckPjjBgQ3L8FNP7qj-EP1wrcs3QZPLn-oSbIv_ZJbMXEZv7swJAA/s1600/-18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEQBFJp1SVO_r0NWEIK-TwwpCd5fwpINoKUvT7MmgMJonuytrkEGntXAgdU43oPLyK0hy5Ouzhv9NQfjvj_UUEoSfckPjjBgQ3L8FNP7qj-EP1wrcs3QZPLn-oSbIv_ZJbMXEZv7swJAA/s640/-18.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crab, Green Chili and Cheddar Dip, from Cook like a Caterer, page 57</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6OzJv2VSLZMnWayNt8nNnjSn3ts6xnPgWQWcZAV_pEafG_j1c24lnohZb98IPS9Z8K9dYxE0-NbY4zsD36fjA9HDUpr-GCY6PHJ6C5Wes4SkkJzo83WBNk5hyM4fe0VFLO5ssJw__kcg/s1600/Jalapeno+Cheese+Ball.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6OzJv2VSLZMnWayNt8nNnjSn3ts6xnPgWQWcZAV_pEafG_j1c24lnohZb98IPS9Z8K9dYxE0-NbY4zsD36fjA9HDUpr-GCY6PHJ6C5Wes4SkkJzo83WBNk5hyM4fe0VFLO5ssJw__kcg/s640/Jalapeno+Cheese+Ball.jpg" width="578" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jalapeno Cheese Spread, Cook like a Caterer, page 62</td></tr>
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Recipes and more, <a href="https://www.createspace.com/3822221" target="_blank">Cook like a Caterer, Party </a><br />
Sized Recipes for Entertaining<br />
Renee Weir-Fontes <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNr-X7i2_7pmX4-os4X65yVyVtGnClTTxgSYTTDRrauGAetoGos8xS5S7C5WAXpLNKhF41OvLvE_JTGm5O31lHqCL7nWRH_9QuEhQOhASJGLy4aL-h0Sla73kakwYvssZ9I752DdilpzY/s1600/-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNr-X7i2_7pmX4-os4X65yVyVtGnClTTxgSYTTDRrauGAetoGos8xS5S7C5WAXpLNKhF41OvLvE_JTGm5O31lHqCL7nWRH_9QuEhQOhASJGLy4aL-h0Sla73kakwYvssZ9I752DdilpzY/s640/-17.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carne Asada Steak Tacos, Cook like a Caterer, page 140</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC3Iz8y7HfBk97Us1_7ezca8AZvGZI5_tBb1nKdwQUolkbz1A6bMTs89S0sKVx60Vu5-Py6gj3A6ypTymdM0OuhVII5S_b4bZ4a9oNgv7-BFNyvZ3Wh-8JzzdUn8hZiek0io7qRFwFDd4/s1600/Real+Lemonade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC3Iz8y7HfBk97Us1_7ezca8AZvGZI5_tBb1nKdwQUolkbz1A6bMTs89S0sKVx60Vu5-Py6gj3A6ypTymdM0OuhVII5S_b4bZ4a9oNgv7-BFNyvZ3Wh-8JzzdUn8hZiek0io7qRFwFDd4/s640/Real+Lemonade.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Self Serve Lemonade and Beverage Area</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmRHa92HUl27xu8T30Kd45clfwZYCobjeO0J2XEg9adIGdqLux6KRX3idIAi0CZW3qlNUuxAOYBtkOwS6B5go8lh-cz4BLdp8v9iEdJvp9glg5bC_XGhESGC9A40YFbGotfYXyyNk9quM/s1600/-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmRHa92HUl27xu8T30Kd45clfwZYCobjeO0J2XEg9adIGdqLux6KRX3idIAi0CZW3qlNUuxAOYBtkOwS6B5go8lh-cz4BLdp8v9iEdJvp9glg5bC_XGhESGC9A40YFbGotfYXyyNk9quM/s640/-8.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grilled Vegetables for Salad, Cook like a Caterer, page 97<br />
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<i><span class="huge">"To me, every hour of the day and night is an unspeakably perfect miracle"-</span></i><span class="huge">Walt Whitman</span><i><span class="huge"><br /></span></i>Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-5804307653870426062012-05-06T10:55:00.001-07:002012-05-08T07:58:19.993-07:00"OH MAYO!" Catering a Mexican Fiesta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Personally, I love Mexican food, I always have. It's not just the flavor I love, it's the comfort feeling that tags a long...warm, relaxed, and colorful. When a event comes a long with an opportunity to put a Mexican theme to it, I don't just want to serve authentic dishes, I want guests to feel the party too.<br />
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Cinco De Mayo is a good reason for a fiesta, but don't stop there! Affordable ingredients, ease of preparation and wide crowd appeal makes Mexican dishes an excellent choice for entertaining year round. A Mexican menu can be as simple as tacos, beans and rice or can have the addition of favorites like; Enchiladas, Tamales, Taquitos or Quesadillas. When made with simple fresh ingredients any Latin inspired dish is a good fit for a fiesta.<br />
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At this fiesta theme birthday party for 230 guests, a staff member, made tortillas to serve with the meal. Tortillas are inexpensive to make, and watching them being freshly made adds interest to the buffet. <br />
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Just like menu, the festive look is easy to achieve. Bold color, vibrant flowers, warm terracotta, rustic pieces in wood, iron and clay work well for decorations. Use new serapes as table runners, fresh chilies, tomatoes and limes make great centerpieces, and paper flowers or pinatas keep cost down.<br />
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Bigger pieces rented from a prop house can turn a backyard tennis court into a Mexican village. Live Mariachi music is a wonderful treat at a special event. Having service staff in costume, and asking guests to dress up, adds to the fun. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvivrc0JA4l27poX-oDMyLzLdX8aY8XjYTo5affaZWh6Ya5VfXkfEI8rpOhi-lD6fBm74Hqum1xwxyMkKxza4057LYeqKoaXwMYGm4q-OpK3AalAAizu9_y4yySkbSLf_3BbSxOotx1eE/s1600/Mexican+salad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvivrc0JA4l27poX-oDMyLzLdX8aY8XjYTo5affaZWh6Ya5VfXkfEI8rpOhi-lD6fBm74Hqum1xwxyMkKxza4057LYeqKoaXwMYGm4q-OpK3AalAAizu9_y4yySkbSLf_3BbSxOotx1eE/s640/Mexican+salad.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(It only looks like the donkey is having a bite!) </td></tr>
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The best way to offer fresh food at a fiesta is to cook on site at cooking stations or to create an open kitchen. Guests enjoy seeing the preparation which is part of the entertainment. The vegetables for this salad were grilled first, then the grill was used for cooking the Ancho Chicken for the main course. Once the vegetables cooled, the salad was assembled and served with Cilantro dressing.<br />
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<i> </i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b> Fiesta Menu</b> </div>
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<i> 230 Guests</i></div>
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Black Jack Quesadillas </div>
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with Salsa Fresca</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>page 16 </i></span></div>
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Carnitas Soft Tacos</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>page 142</i></span> </div>
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Taquitos Poquitos </div>
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with roasted garlic guacamole</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>page 40</i></span> </div>
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Cabo Shrimp Cocktail</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>page 20 </i></span></div>
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Crab Green Chili and Cheddar Dip </div>
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with fresh made tortilla chips</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>page 57</i></span> </div>
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South American Grilled Vegetable Salad with Cilantro Dressing</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>page 97 </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ancho Chili Grilled Chicken with Verde Sauce</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">page 132</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mexican Red Rice</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">page 123 </span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pinto Beans</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Handmade Tortillas</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">page 216 </span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sliced Fruit Tray<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">page 65 </span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Apple Flautas<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>page 184 </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Kahlua Chocolate Flan<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">page 199 </span></i><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Classic Margaritas</span><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">page 227 </span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> Recipes can be found in <a href="http://www.lulu.com/shop/renee-weir-fontes/cook-like-a-caterer/paperback/product-18920743.html" target="_blank">Cook like a Caterer...Party Sized Recipes for Entertaining </a></i></div>
On Lulu or also on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Cook-like-Caterer-Entertaining-Catering/dp/1475019017" target="_blank">Amazon</a>.<br />
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<br />Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-51572250202403491982012-03-25T15:22:00.000-07:002012-03-25T15:22:52.730-07:00Catering A Gypsy Theme Event<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK5Q4o3CVg58GEAqj6mzzYN_mqPDthLgOclLyTRM5QSxYlIMipOlyeDlh270LzekyMqBgy-eXWwk5wp-9cNsItk_ZlsWOPmwtHrfuSxAq74UdOAHEzgKjp3FdP7P6YmshJSK_Gee84usI/s1600/Buffet+coversjpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="612" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK5Q4o3CVg58GEAqj6mzzYN_mqPDthLgOclLyTRM5QSxYlIMipOlyeDlh270LzekyMqBgy-eXWwk5wp-9cNsItk_ZlsWOPmwtHrfuSxAq74UdOAHEzgKjp3FdP7P6YmshJSK_Gee84usI/s640/Buffet+coversjpg.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I was planning an event for a client who has had so many parties, it seemed like every theme we thought of had been done before! Someone suggested the idea of a Gypsy Party, at first I was stumped. What seemed like it would be a challenging theme to work with, ended up a lot of fun.<br />
<br />
The party was for the hosts birthday and 275 guests were invited to his private residence, (turned Gypsy Camp), in Yorba Linda, CA. The property is lush with mature trees and rambling gardens, the perfect forest look for a Gypsy camp. Props, menu and entertainment added to the flavor.<br />
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I rented a few old world style backdrops such as a cottage, forest, and thatched roof house. These were set dressed with luggage, tools, barrels and trunks. A few tents, wagons, wishing well, some farm animal props and bench seating helped with the camp look.<br />
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Most of the cooking was done on site in full view of the guests. The dishes were served on wagon covered buffets to protect the food as well as add to the rustic look. The party lasted into the night and everyone had a ball!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV-mFYmNoQsaVciCyosBt20AmadcYqUo_V7WQMKS3ncShd1E17byW1dp_DWDcjr3uWY2x2YFFxGhKI4Je9AOmptJx3-uWnoqdn4SaDINGH7ffJ6jmRPGB-WtQF-r3sCGwOCeBcZ5jJeig/s1600/Fruit+Veg+display.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV-mFYmNoQsaVciCyosBt20AmadcYqUo_V7WQMKS3ncShd1E17byW1dp_DWDcjr3uWY2x2YFFxGhKI4Je9AOmptJx3-uWnoqdn4SaDINGH7ffJ6jmRPGB-WtQF-r3sCGwOCeBcZ5jJeig/s640/Fruit+Veg+display.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;">
<b> ~Appetizers~</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Market Fair Fruit, Cheese and Vegetables </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Piroshki Russian Tiny Turnovers</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Mystic Meatballs </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Beggars Purse </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Rosemary Steak Skewers</i></div>
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<b> ~<i>Dinner</i>~</b><br />
<div class="p1">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Chicken Paprikash </i><br />
<i>Hungarian Beef Goulash </i><br />
<i>Rag Noodles</i><br />
<i>Rose Potatoes with Olives in Basil Oil</i><br />
<i>Chopped Peasant Salad </i><br />
<i>Goat cheese, cucumber, tomato, shaved red onion and wine vinaigrette,</i><br />
<i>Rustic breads </i></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>~</b><b>Dessert~</b></i><br />
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Mixed Stone Fruit Cobbler with fresh whipped cream</i></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce</i></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: center;">
<i> Tartelettes </i><br />
<br />
<b><i>~Beverages~</i></b><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Lemonade Iced Tea and Campfire Coffee </i></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Tavern Bar</i></div>
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<i><br /></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4rooYgy6f3hMdycjWrcwEfVFZp82dnnX33GAn7vj6-ArWtdzyBNMI2dmidjYuX44bNurfGnMWpI8IFHLphlVDMKhsrflHJoypIKzGgM6HGvn2SWpfVG6LipQyg5ZYmOMghYTQdTmp84s/s1600/Tavern+party+tent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4rooYgy6f3hMdycjWrcwEfVFZp82dnnX33GAn7vj6-ArWtdzyBNMI2dmidjYuX44bNurfGnMWpI8IFHLphlVDMKhsrflHJoypIKzGgM6HGvn2SWpfVG6LipQyg5ZYmOMghYTQdTmp84s/s640/Tavern+party+tent.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
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<div class="p1" style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>~Entertainment~ </b></i><br />
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="p1">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Crystal ball reader, Tarot Card Reader, Gypsy Dancers, Strolling Music Playing Duo and a Theme Gypsy Band.</i></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOD1aeU5_-NcMllXy3thTB39XtttsjmoI6frQZvBApDHIUu_PwcgYesmuVUVN7damyT82BNfVle_V1EUqT5UAl9O5nMKnBz_v2okFzN5v8yUSXDyObcg4HTyIBZHrmOC9zxqoQ5uc6Jf0/s1600/Fourtune+tellers+tent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="568" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOD1aeU5_-NcMllXy3thTB39XtttsjmoI6frQZvBApDHIUu_PwcgYesmuVUVN7damyT82BNfVle_V1EUqT5UAl9O5nMKnBz_v2okFzN5v8yUSXDyObcg4HTyIBZHrmOC9zxqoQ5uc6Jf0/s640/Fourtune+tellers+tent.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prop tent makes a fun setting for a crystal ball reader</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIaHXHCU9_ENxrRgn07ZloQ-qZhl-VBrQMQx67wYgMa6MET_KDsYQkd3JZvUSV7uDK36zEYXJyExJ3WrEYHrSS_oTOi9Bn0Ye31FuWuIzmnwLijZRowyH0mCsCpvt_QBI_R9Qrk8WRK_o/s1600/Two+buffets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIaHXHCU9_ENxrRgn07ZloQ-qZhl-VBrQMQx67wYgMa6MET_KDsYQkd3JZvUSV7uDK36zEYXJyExJ3WrEYHrSS_oTOi9Bn0Ye31FuWuIzmnwLijZRowyH0mCsCpvt_QBI_R9Qrk8WRK_o/s640/Two+buffets.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Props and buffet station settle nicely into the lush yard</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI6hDzq7roNpbI9-Itj015DDOc_YEGA4-yuTHFBb9y7K21fy1t5JD9ycx5lPRkQFa769NjJZlgAjaRqooScg8uuB9kYVfgfDlxgaFdbDj4BlcSMyFDU4EcDKdaQYhG_Im1_NB5d5xJceI/s1600/Gypsy+tent+camp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI6hDzq7roNpbI9-Itj015DDOc_YEGA4-yuTHFBb9y7K21fy1t5JD9ycx5lPRkQFa769NjJZlgAjaRqooScg8uuB9kYVfgfDlxgaFdbDj4BlcSMyFDU4EcDKdaQYhG_Im1_NB5d5xJceI/s640/Gypsy+tent+camp.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fortune Tellers tent</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwFv2KQhZUKaZX4yVn18T2Aobd0AAxNezYmTrMzEuG3aE5H6aYqSkojr6zamWZNHWv3VnTyRDNqRBfgCBfwwQ0IJegQjJtHQNq_JVB9lz8zroP2Zr7zMUW9GfFBp-wBqOCB7GNnOqpXQI/s1600/Gypsy+props.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="502" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwFv2KQhZUKaZX4yVn18T2Aobd0AAxNezYmTrMzEuG3aE5H6aYqSkojr6zamWZNHWv3VnTyRDNqRBfgCBfwwQ0IJegQjJtHQNq_JVB9lz8zroP2Zr7zMUW9GfFBp-wBqOCB7GNnOqpXQI/s640/Gypsy+props.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Benches and props set to watch the entertainment</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZyD9TX9JO3kHAFHIVIFbe9vufBayHT3jdsWlmMzUmFuUunVGIXQIAZQfqRk3dbnGDBurDN-yc7tbuCkCcq-GTuo4yP2sc0elmg45G3pr9KcncUUpkyTJXdmT3ocSEFaEslsolFg6J_Fw/s1600/Gypsy+Dancers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZyD9TX9JO3kHAFHIVIFbe9vufBayHT3jdsWlmMzUmFuUunVGIXQIAZQfqRk3dbnGDBurDN-yc7tbuCkCcq-GTuo4yP2sc0elmg45G3pr9KcncUUpkyTJXdmT3ocSEFaEslsolFg6J_Fw/s640/Gypsy+Dancers.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gypsy dancers liven up the evening</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTBq-ypc9g-kRge9-NXe7RMQpYIaIThzTqV9fcvPCZv-gYouy9fsYZGZL7g0iTkt30Nl7KSc6zAUSATJAP6qZO1DUpPxTFm4cFkyx5LeRvqy9vCgdzgHza5t_237he3QyyH1ZcMdh5Oq4/s1600/Dancers+ring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTBq-ypc9g-kRge9-NXe7RMQpYIaIThzTqV9fcvPCZv-gYouy9fsYZGZL7g0iTkt30Nl7KSc6zAUSATJAP6qZO1DUpPxTFm4cFkyx5LeRvqy9vCgdzgHza5t_237he3QyyH1ZcMdh5Oq4/s640/Dancers+ring.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A colorful party</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i> </i></div>Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-88859635536535309952012-03-22T11:12:00.000-07:002012-03-22T11:12:01.932-07:00Pinterest and a Edible Pineapple Flower Craft<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl_J-vEAJg-fJmBTvvNeq-9zVpvfx9iyNDWFCgdH_fNX-k6-MXuYqUoGRlZMz77pLbIyNyPwQgBLtFIq7SKx15Kz_Ho04-KBuEVVocPBFi4W1zlCFIjgKzF2tIjekLDgr5DG3d82RJDSY/s1600/2+Pineapple+flowersjpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl_J-vEAJg-fJmBTvvNeq-9zVpvfx9iyNDWFCgdH_fNX-k6-MXuYqUoGRlZMz77pLbIyNyPwQgBLtFIq7SKx15Kz_Ho04-KBuEVVocPBFi4W1zlCFIjgKzF2tIjekLDgr5DG3d82RJDSY/s640/2+Pineapple+flowersjpg.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pineapple Flower, Fresh Ideas, by Renee Fontes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have been trying to get up to speed on the Pinterest mechanics and finding it kind of confusing. I'ts like leafing through stacks of MS Living, but you can't tear out the pictures. Lot's of cool things to look at and pinning them to imaginary bulletin board (hope I'm doing it right!) and wow, I found edible art!<br />
<br />
While learning new social network skills, I'm also learning some great food preserving skills in the Orange County Master Preservers Group. For homework 2 weeks ago we were told to dry something to show at the next class. I saw these pineapple slices on Pinterest they looked like flowers and gave it a try.<br />
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The picture I found didn't have directions but did have a series of photos that were easy enough to follow. Below is how I made these and at the bottom (I believe) is the original source for the pineapple dried flowers. Give it a try, and let me know if you have questions, suggestions or success!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrVHh2adRciemAvZsV8kCJRK949BlJNwXmeycrP411cxtFwfUOOjRz-fm15CsyBTjqKw4XtJLCwxWNOz5WUIzTlwuURfY8Uj3JzLY6vnNRvFiWgXdVYUeQmRrXJcVyn80FkT7nA1qGZnI/s1600/dry+in+jar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrVHh2adRciemAvZsV8kCJRK949BlJNwXmeycrP411cxtFwfUOOjRz-fm15CsyBTjqKw4XtJLCwxWNOz5WUIzTlwuURfY8Uj3JzLY6vnNRvFiWgXdVYUeQmRrXJcVyn80FkT7nA1qGZnI/s640/dry+in+jar.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Canning Jar of dried pineapple slices that look like fresh picked daisy's, by Renee Fontes</td></tr>
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Dried flowers can be stored in a clean dry jar. They are pretty gifts, garnish and taste good too!<br />
To make:<br />
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Cut top and bottom of pineapple.<br />
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Trim away sides.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTVDEvg51zIU7uAxkDbS8vahjQOUgDeiZSD7NMvg54fCYOgBc_WYK5jfQROhsy-oijeUb82ZXGj9JV29U2zh5qPf564Xg5bZW12uhaTDodO2gbE01ctH6Ma_La1yM5iuW93jSyoTgSeu0/s1600/-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTVDEvg51zIU7uAxkDbS8vahjQOUgDeiZSD7NMvg54fCYOgBc_WYK5jfQROhsy-oijeUb82ZXGj9JV29U2zh5qPf564Xg5bZW12uhaTDodO2gbE01ctH6Ma_La1yM5iuW93jSyoTgSeu0/s320/-6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Notch texture on surface, this helps make petal edges.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The center of this dried pineapple slice looks just like the center of a flower! Photo by Renee Fontes</td></tr>
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Slice thin with a sharp knife and lay on a silpat. Dehydrate at 135 until dry, but slightly pliable. It took mine 6 hours. Move from silpat to cupcake pan to help form shape.<br />
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Allow to dry 2 more hours, place in sealed jar or container.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drying pineapple flowers. Photo by Renee Fontes</td></tr>
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I've tried to find the source of the original idea, best I know this is the one I pinned. Great idea!<br />
Inspiration source- http://www.duitang.com/people/mblog/20209417/detail/<br />
<br />Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-20198778741179739952012-02-29T21:26:00.000-08:002012-02-29T21:26:15.609-08:00Wedding in the Woods<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpdreUWcPB_vyrm7Y2oaycv197goCru6IEWiVmoQ4T07tgUrmmBPrhFksl74F3rKhl1pOz-6RHkNeqtIugoChZNnAG8zsZdbv8zwOR5IMwkJgf6V2bjC_UFnnspM-Xxp7O_s8S4lxz_ds/s1600/-table+2jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpdreUWcPB_vyrm7Y2oaycv197goCru6IEWiVmoQ4T07tgUrmmBPrhFksl74F3rKhl1pOz-6RHkNeqtIugoChZNnAG8zsZdbv8zwOR5IMwkJgf6V2bjC_UFnnspM-Xxp7O_s8S4lxz_ds/s640/-table+2jpg.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
The best weddings are casual but classy... fresh and comfortable, outdoors but still intimate. There is never a need to fuss with decorations when nature can provide uncomplicated beauty. This Southern California wedding reception is a perfect example of all the above. Crisp white chairs, warm chocolate table linen, clean simple lines are framed by boughs and bramble. In one word~ beautiful.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoLoIXOqgor4nZNPNc7dNiiXBj6k5WKYZbCpnh9qutUHocQIXgy-E14PEw66ny2DbROBXqIER9CD3MmKiF0mbN4XE7ihxtpS-ESCbDMsm0Znu8uVlZ9hRjwew0UsFp5Hz3gJYOmGTqFUg/s1600/Tablesjpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoLoIXOqgor4nZNPNc7dNiiXBj6k5WKYZbCpnh9qutUHocQIXgy-E14PEw66ny2DbROBXqIER9CD3MmKiF0mbN4XE7ihxtpS-ESCbDMsm0Znu8uVlZ9hRjwew0UsFp5Hz3gJYOmGTqFUg/s640/Tablesjpg.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3pbZ6BUbTWBDpC8FDdVBGXITi3p3ihoax_WQeO12E5hAJO5Yjadsf3Em4M9BdyRnUcPBsvRLG4teH07DhPVzLmKPihACriUCIWzvbLiQuvAmlzFjJnzL8Kp5CgV9VQaG-7TSWsD-kLYs/s1600/buffet+view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3pbZ6BUbTWBDpC8FDdVBGXITi3p3ihoax_WQeO12E5hAJO5Yjadsf3Em4M9BdyRnUcPBsvRLG4teH07DhPVzLmKPihACriUCIWzvbLiQuvAmlzFjJnzL8Kp5CgV9VQaG-7TSWsD-kLYs/s640/buffet+view.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK575GKOGnre26evxjr1ZmQULjVqT2O9RucsveIMZUiCbkFRi9DIaLckXZMmHfQFrylDQrr78Ev7AmluzQCTOW6duRnuKWNKRju16bQOMtbh-3pbn3LNA9dT9eEy2gOx7rpFiodbJ8tvo/s1600/cover+buffet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK575GKOGnre26evxjr1ZmQULjVqT2O9RucsveIMZUiCbkFRi9DIaLckXZMmHfQFrylDQrr78Ev7AmluzQCTOW6duRnuKWNKRju16bQOMtbh-3pbn3LNA9dT9eEy2gOx7rpFiodbJ8tvo/s400/cover+buffet.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
Natural posts hold a simple covering for a simple buffet. In this picture only the basic table scape is in place.<br />
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Colors for the table mimic nature as well. Wood, ferns, stone and shade compliment rather then compete for attention.<br />
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The reception was a luncheon the menu items were arranged on platters and served cool.<br />
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Menu</div>
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cold poached salmon with cucumber coulis</div>
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lemon tarragon chicken with green grapes and lemon vinaigrette </div>
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beef tenderloin with portobella sweet onion mushroom salad and aoili </div>
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orzo and wild rice salad</div>
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sliced tomato with blue cheese and bacon</div>
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creamy spinach pasta salad</div>
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bread display </div>
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wedding cupcakes</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo RFontes Fresh Ideas</td></tr>
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Table assignments set for guests<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo RFontes Fresh Ideas</td></tr>
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Cupcakes for a sweet send off.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo RFontes Fresh Ideas </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<br />Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-59455228907946295612012-02-19T19:30:00.000-08:002013-04-10T19:48:26.701-07:00Take a Peek at a Roaring 2O's Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tortellini Salad with Artichoke Hearts, Dried Tomato, Olives and Fresh Mozzerella. Platter with deli meats. Photo RFontes</td></tr>
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My very creative friend Chris planned a fun party for her fathers birthday. She chose a Roaring 20's theme, booked a casino, and did an amazing job with period decorations. The guests arrived in terrific costumes, ready to roar!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_OFmvatin6EVOWXXhrs3B8fcAg9Lec74OnhTgzYBBimcOEo1bBPYcGNbAYN1wCGwhrGqLnm2zrka1mb_CdvRDlIlPFVED0YkVM0OLU1xYYQJhJ-sjt8RXYUFV3wWvd5FUogkrreDkww/s1600/-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_OFmvatin6EVOWXXhrs3B8fcAg9Lec74OnhTgzYBBimcOEo1bBPYcGNbAYN1wCGwhrGqLnm2zrka1mb_CdvRDlIlPFVED0YkVM0OLU1xYYQJhJ-sjt8RXYUFV3wWvd5FUogkrreDkww/s320/-4.jpg" width="272" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chris created dramatic decor areas</td></tr>
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Look how great these ladies look in their 20's finery! <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLz9yMvSbMj34T-_TXsghrLxnica2uKGCBc8W7OPPGnYnxUFcF00tCWQvb5yiPMaRYB6aV8ryn0TP-IUUw81ry3IIu-ZPT24Teiws_c3FhkcBEigAXk4Liugfa8puh0Ih0_obRjvo_ylQ/s1600/-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>Together with her family, Chris put together a menu and prepared dishes for a casual, <i>easy to nosh on</i>, buffet.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sausage En Croute served with flavored mustard's. Platter with Puff Pastry Straws and Blistered Grape Tomatoes. Photo: RFontes-Fresh Ideas</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiuQXcGYCqOPcEbey-am71JqBG1GOq7AR-VUVksEhyphenhyphenxLVQrUmZEAhIyh7vK2NwG1ScU0wsjs0ZeHh6IdIseZmXQtjWR6QrJLCvU48SurfVlHevGSpyFyZ4Gby1b4QP9bC0p4OuBXPyGTE/s1600/-2.Sausage+makingjpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiuQXcGYCqOPcEbey-am71JqBG1GOq7AR-VUVksEhyphenhyphenxLVQrUmZEAhIyh7vK2NwG1ScU0wsjs0ZeHh6IdIseZmXQtjWR6QrJLCvU48SurfVlHevGSpyFyZ4Gby1b4QP9bC0p4OuBXPyGTE/s640/-2.Sausage+makingjpg.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handmade sausage wrapped in pastry before slicing. Photo RFontes</td></tr>
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My part was easy, I made the Tortellini Salad. Handmade sausage wrapped in pastry, Bruschetta Pomodorro, Chicken Satay and Grilled Sausage Skewers with peppers and onions.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFrNaxUrXIQqZOspOz-2mDM_n3Rjri8dNTa4mZz8ychw2kzubXW8fn5tmSZqb-KBVWQ6PJLO21be89h_0GlByuAKCOhCk6Pr3hER1WlJDS8vfE_EhLJTjRYM-C4wvBqD5CRKLAbtGTOII/s1600/Sausage+Skewers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFrNaxUrXIQqZOspOz-2mDM_n3Rjri8dNTa4mZz8ychw2kzubXW8fn5tmSZqb-KBVWQ6PJLO21be89h_0GlByuAKCOhCk6Pr3hER1WlJDS8vfE_EhLJTjRYM-C4wvBqD5CRKLAbtGTOII/s640/Sausage+Skewers.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sausage Skewers ready for the grill. Photo RFontes, Fresh Ideas</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUsWh3Vi6tYYRILZw3jbRuCjxdmhH5vl2ust1IBKgXYc9pEDwgsxsuQ8N2YnC0Hp34EhhvGwf4dtEOgYb4ryP-5deovDItJ4Gveuuw5zxZxVFS_SU9Fww9bwP49TOHB9K0FARdbY6076U/s1600/pomodoro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUsWh3Vi6tYYRILZw3jbRuCjxdmhH5vl2ust1IBKgXYc9pEDwgsxsuQ8N2YnC0Hp34EhhvGwf4dtEOgYb4ryP-5deovDItJ4Gveuuw5zxZxVFS_SU9Fww9bwP49TOHB9K0FARdbY6076U/s640/pomodoro.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Classic Pomodoro, served with fresh ciabatta toasted and rubbed with garlic. Photo RFontes</td></tr>
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Adding some space onto your home to keep guests warm and cozy is easy. A party rental company can turn your backyard into another room. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw0JqOMCX5zuIX5TI1VNPHnlF3eyay0G5UwLK0fZePUEKOwxjXGYOqG-iVDBv1Ldx-UwBbPzw7gUr9lsM2ztFCzxg6hEGRWCzD5QMbO_gWh8Io2tFnVUDolZYza2y0W5sGRQa6j2qmaaE/s1600/-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw0JqOMCX5zuIX5TI1VNPHnlF3eyay0G5UwLK0fZePUEKOwxjXGYOqG-iVDBv1Ldx-UwBbPzw7gUr9lsM2ztFCzxg6hEGRWCzD5QMbO_gWh8Io2tFnVUDolZYza2y0W5sGRQa6j2qmaaE/s640/-5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Casino table gets it's own room</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitm1wsdunGlOCS8u5gtThQx2yP0HERsX0F7ZUNWCAOrQHPplx5nN32EFilfh1Mak_AKCK3UXCcsaPRNe1Dboullm6DyN-aeZMf6OF8aNmPUgO_y4yBn2fLueZdcJ0GYxNdwUazzhd4sKg/s1600/-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitm1wsdunGlOCS8u5gtThQx2yP0HERsX0F7ZUNWCAOrQHPplx5nN32EFilfh1Mak_AKCK3UXCcsaPRNe1Dboullm6DyN-aeZMf6OF8aNmPUgO_y4yBn2fLueZdcJ0GYxNdwUazzhd4sKg/s640/-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chris turned her parents parlor into a classy casino.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0f02VYyLxI5CQV7hT99IXD7YvOueiDVY-ZirvMEXJ1xeXtg-dVcmoLwkoOEXaGDlDD3htTmuA-tt_i1hajYWihUNde9BjVQ23WydvfS1afM39qdbybftjCf-F5n1_EDoARz3E4m9k6YU/s1600/platters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0f02VYyLxI5CQV7hT99IXD7YvOueiDVY-ZirvMEXJ1xeXtg-dVcmoLwkoOEXaGDlDD3htTmuA-tt_i1hajYWihUNde9BjVQ23WydvfS1afM39qdbybftjCf-F5n1_EDoARz3E4m9k6YU/s640/platters.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The buffet was set in the kitchen for simple service. </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Guests entered from the alley, into a fun "speakeasy" secret knock...and all!Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-78692064402569098382012-02-17T22:47:00.000-08:002012-02-21T22:45:53.919-08:00Cook like a Caterer Review- on the road with caterBuzz - the grassroots social media hub for catering professionals: Cook Like a Caterer - a resource for the fledgling caterer, the experienced home entertainer and anyone else who loves delicious food + recipes in quantity!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOvOSDPLxB1jgLEkB68nXVj1srpwLZvtnJoRzFSwgcTvYU20w_eDIgayQdufrK0rIjKtTzAOUopTKqc9OMUVWcR9wp8oHybDSMh0g4WryGL5J5Lxi-1zqYUbGUKblGPf3JZ3MoD6hHBuY/s1600/cover.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOvOSDPLxB1jgLEkB68nXVj1srpwLZvtnJoRzFSwgcTvYU20w_eDIgayQdufrK0rIjKtTzAOUopTKqc9OMUVWcR9wp8oHybDSMh0g4WryGL5J5Lxi-1zqYUbGUKblGPf3JZ3MoD6hHBuY/s640/cover.png" width="502" /></a></div>
If you ever wanted to really challenge yourself, then write a cookbook! I just finished Cook like a Caterer, Party Sized Recipes for Entertaining...(are you ever finished?) and now working on the E Book version. It's exciting when after years at working on recipes, the first boxes of books arrive...<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrF0xWRcr_B7rffRK_btlsmsbg3wSGX6CSsAPXnRjSjG2klKwVGV7GZPUEJQTiLCQZ4E05-1dfUbRy66MOZJc3hbaHh46im6xfC42pYM3KDhTaXRAGNxwU0JDqDtToCKBR1QZj3SV1M2o/s1600/IMG_1653.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrF0xWRcr_B7rffRK_btlsmsbg3wSGX6CSsAPXnRjSjG2klKwVGV7GZPUEJQTiLCQZ4E05-1dfUbRy66MOZJc3hbaHh46im6xfC42pYM3KDhTaXRAGNxwU0JDqDtToCKBR1QZj3SV1M2o/s400/IMG_1653.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
... and giving some to your patient family.<br />
Suddenly, complete strangers are not only encouraging, they actually want one! <br />
<br />
The best part of all of this is finding kindness and support from the professional catering community called <a href="http://www.caterbuzz.blogspot.com.%20/" target="_blank">Caterbuzz</a>.<br />
<br />
New York Caterer <a href="http://www.cuisinetc-catering.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lisa Teiger</a> of <a href="http://www.cuisinetc.net/" target="_blank">CuisinEtc</a>, reviewed the book, and posted kind words on <a href="http://www.caterbuzz.blogspot.com.%20/" target="_blank">Caterbuzz </a>blog... she helped me laugh through the typos.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn14XyxD0rwkbsgjnZ2tMy7TvvzynIOTEFQyBnKgJjAEVtin3kHuGeSPSKBwUwgV5Zu58h5exB27poiRUlwHvXqdeZpO8A8wV0iUcXgvBK860omQveJzHn5w-vIEMhbqGfQgyor-xr-EE/s1600/IMG_1654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn14XyxD0rwkbsgjnZ2tMy7TvvzynIOTEFQyBnKgJjAEVtin3kHuGeSPSKBwUwgV5Zu58h5exB27poiRUlwHvXqdeZpO8A8wV0iUcXgvBK860omQveJzHn5w-vIEMhbqGfQgyor-xr-EE/s640/IMG_1654.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Please take some time and read- <a href="http://caterbuzz.blogspot.com/2012/02/cook-like-caterer-resource-for.html">on the road with caterBuzz - the grassroots social media hub for catering professionals: Cook Like a Caterer - a resource for the fledgling caterer, the experienced home entertainer and anyone else who loves delicious food + recipes in quantity!</a> Thank you Lisa and CaterBuzzies!Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-8423912107077974282012-02-08T23:52:00.000-08:002012-02-10T16:50:22.212-08:00Menu and Entertaining Trends for Spring 2012<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibiSFMIykncv43a7ykCNsfjMrAwoa-BCA-v8BFt5Rtrog19M1TzvN21EwbgG_SSiq-trVlKCuYRNczbfiHHhT2TiJrfRjHag7xwMMvepDWB9NHGFDk5juuSzN_OvF-YMPfy6lriLdsc7w/s1600/-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibiSFMIykncv43a7ykCNsfjMrAwoa-BCA-v8BFt5Rtrog19M1TzvN21EwbgG_SSiq-trVlKCuYRNczbfiHHhT2TiJrfRjHag7xwMMvepDWB9NHGFDk5juuSzN_OvF-YMPfy6lriLdsc7w/s640/-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Renee Fontes- There still is no known cupcake replacement and I'm okay with that...after all there is always room for a little dessert!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><br /></b></i></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><br /></b></i></td></tr>
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<i><b>With Spring just around the corner, here's a peek on what's cooking in entertaining for 2012. </b></i></div>
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<b>On the menu-</b><br />
Resourcefulness is in style for entertaining. A sluggish economy and an unsure future, (after all this is the last year on the Mayan calendar!) 2012 will find hosts producing simple thoughtful meals at home for special celebrations. Many hosts will take producing a step further with home or community gardening, cooking from scratch and preserving foods in a traditional manner to share with friends and family. Rustic home made food is wholesome and welcoming.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Fresh Ideas Trip to Orange Home Grown Market</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Fresh Ideas-Home made chicken stock</td></tr>
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The excitement of growing even the smallest<br />
patch in the urban squeeze will lead to adventures in the kitchen. Making unprocessed stock, bread, soups and your own party food to the delight of your guests, and families.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi48hmPICPyQhAVTdhontrMWtMIl_o7WeskEtyw6I_6PQCb_B_sHbJvrWaGo_2yOJ95zyB5yFT2rQRlVZEyiYwB5YDJNQkbT2m2SySNPvds1vAzbuc6EG21_V_ST7qbX3coNoigzeXfCjw/s1600/-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi48hmPICPyQhAVTdhontrMWtMIl_o7WeskEtyw6I_6PQCb_B_sHbJvrWaGo_2yOJ95zyB5yFT2rQRlVZEyiYwB5YDJNQkbT2m2SySNPvds1vAzbuc6EG21_V_ST7qbX3coNoigzeXfCjw/s200/-3.jpg" width="135" /></a><br />
Most guests are beginning to "warm up" to fresh healthy food and are more willing to try new things. Fruits and vegetables, brought to market by boutique farmers, will continue to star on menus this year and often be the centerpiece of the meal. More fish and egg's beyond breakfast.<br />
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Black lentils, quinoa, home grown sprouts, dishes featuring seeds and Greek yogurt.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj30KbCnU8kkctTH9lbhR1ph_NfyifLTxQ7m5g2kzx0Dyv78Wvy-zNWg09yadlUy_UbOYz7lu2USUf3WAc_lgd9qLt5nICbnZ-tb3Ek5CI0Q2p96aNFFOtvMQIBFoIZIz8XQx6KBS9Eltk/s1600/-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj30KbCnU8kkctTH9lbhR1ph_NfyifLTxQ7m5g2kzx0Dyv78Wvy-zNWg09yadlUy_UbOYz7lu2USUf3WAc_lgd9qLt5nICbnZ-tb3Ek5CI0Q2p96aNFFOtvMQIBFoIZIz8XQx6KBS9Eltk/s640/-5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Fresh Ideas Renee Fontes, Sangria</td></tr>
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For drinks, bourbon and scotch beat vodka right now. Try a Mint Julep for a refreshing spring cocktail. Party punches are economical and fun. Sangria or any spiked punch is good for showers, or brunches.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYHdqRuvRR2Ok1JTpIUzyiNvs5ssvsKHoNupGZXpFIumvvqBZn-WipOqNr1Wt7q2qHh2cFJmjiuYNZ-3V5GzjDxmfpHtGDCQdqJWeDAuFoxWvDQNQFrSxfBgyJKWZQZEwQu4hyr6FwTNc/s1600/-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYHdqRuvRR2Ok1JTpIUzyiNvs5ssvsKHoNupGZXpFIumvvqBZn-WipOqNr1Wt7q2qHh2cFJmjiuYNZ-3V5GzjDxmfpHtGDCQdqJWeDAuFoxWvDQNQFrSxfBgyJKWZQZEwQu4hyr6FwTNc/s400/-4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Fresh Ideas Renee Fontes Ceviche</td></tr>
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Peru is posed to be the new favorite ethnic choice, but except for Ceviche, the other dishes may not translate well for entertaining.<br />
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The appetizer this spring is <br />
Asian dumplings. The novelty<br />
sweet is "pie pop's" (kinda like<br />
their cake cousins, except that<br />
they are pie on a stick).<br />
This spring:<br />
Danish open faced sandwiches<br />
Carbonara, Matzo ball soup, Areapas, and Donuts.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvnBHIf9_ajV5nFY-2woYgYMV7TaOmtT5DlbtZTnF9ppGswjNepCXz2iwJA4fKnvAjZtEdLpgQ9n3ul5-dWhmCDy5QJvthtkaR9HXGDihAY1UABzMI5oGKUittJImwCNpOfEuB-mLokMo/s1600/-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvnBHIf9_ajV5nFY-2woYgYMV7TaOmtT5DlbtZTnF9ppGswjNepCXz2iwJA4fKnvAjZtEdLpgQ9n3ul5-dWhmCDy5QJvthtkaR9HXGDihAY1UABzMI5oGKUittJImwCNpOfEuB-mLokMo/s640/-6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Fresh Ideas -Donuts on buffet</td></tr>
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Guests will go hog wild over whole pig. Caterers and chefs are now
finding consistent suppliers of pork specialty cuts, making for quite a
delicious and stunning presentation.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirXXVByYalnftwALJA1IKVW7bgjhXlfVKWUH1oO1IaYp3I4uS9KeWgl3Xff0CE_0uu5O2VYNFWpItOTNaPoxzoh1GnJYOcF7a_weQEsaOLPQIhqwnRg99ycqTZtaywhU0I9LNBZUZPpJQ/s1600/-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirXXVByYalnftwALJA1IKVW7bgjhXlfVKWUH1oO1IaYp3I4uS9KeWgl3Xff0CE_0uu5O2VYNFWpItOTNaPoxzoh1GnJYOcF7a_weQEsaOLPQIhqwnRg99ycqTZtaywhU0I9LNBZUZPpJQ/s640/-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Dinner At Eight Productions, Luau Pig</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMiko7Z9nQTt0P9n6euDOEOtvWWU-VMQphIc3TkvA3zl3Zoj8hAqyDU7qF46wc3pVy4Eg_IPl28sagXBfUvSgd8ys3xHx7KG9ISSeJ19h9r_VU0fypD2bdYSKXBy1PftCNr8w2P3HgXvc/s1600/-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMiko7Z9nQTt0P9n6euDOEOtvWWU-VMQphIc3TkvA3zl3Zoj8hAqyDU7qF46wc3pVy4Eg_IPl28sagXBfUvSgd8ys3xHx7KG9ISSeJ19h9r_VU0fypD2bdYSKXBy1PftCNr8w2P3HgXvc/s320/-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>For the Table- </b><br />
Hunt for vintage silver and crystal to use at your party. It adds a bit of nostalgic elegance to the table.<br />
Look for pedestal serving pieces to use for a dessert display.<br />
Use stem wear for all drinks at the bar, even beer.<br />
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Classic colors a bit more reserved have cool undertones. White it's still fresh and crisp, paired with pale pink is gracious, frilly but purposeful. Just like ballet slippers.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHmN8s9Xue4BXz_y5V2NOw7zsOv7BnUdcc9P6tLeL_w6lCXzLBpWC1zRrvJ4SVJZUiZJ5mOlCOE9WmkuuriE2wqaPGUWTBtjw64VrunP_GtnNd9eX9s4DkGOFEVzJhEpVRmgF7xI5IRWM/s1600/mwd104505_spr09_centerpiece1_xl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHmN8s9Xue4BXz_y5V2NOw7zsOv7BnUdcc9P6tLeL_w6lCXzLBpWC1zRrvJ4SVJZUiZJ5mOlCOE9WmkuuriE2wqaPGUWTBtjw64VrunP_GtnNd9eX9s4DkGOFEVzJhEpVRmgF7xI5IRWM/s400/mwd104505_spr09_centerpiece1_xl.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Martha Stewart Living</td></tr>
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I borrowed this picture from Martha Stewert. Can you blame me?<br />
The Magnolias are stunning in their lofty white cylinder vase. Simple elegant arrangements are <br />
fresh, white with soft color memorable.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0bH7HewSuFTs_KlRfIzbXbFm6foiIz77FPzd1jmKnULd5jddDJy7Y5pBlobP8HM3v8Ql1ZG3xrZXtR_58XAmGFsQ0p73Pc8tPaB1DRfbqplXRiEZJMcEObp6cQ5-rMO2Vqt-0P6oGokE/s1600/pinkpin100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0bH7HewSuFTs_KlRfIzbXbFm6foiIz77FPzd1jmKnULd5jddDJy7Y5pBlobP8HM3v8Ql1ZG3xrZXtR_58XAmGFsQ0p73Pc8tPaB1DRfbqplXRiEZJMcEObp6cQ5-rMO2Vqt-0P6oGokE/s200/pinkpin100.jpg" width="200" /></a>For a little texture, try the pin tuck linen.<br />
Take advantage of specialty linens that can be rented from a quality party rental company.<br />
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Another favorite color this spring is aqua or turquoise and tangerine both cheerful and inviting.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Fresh Ideas Renee Fontes</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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I hope these will spur some ideas for your entertaining this season. I'd love to here some of your ideas too!- <i>Cheer's Renee</i></div>
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</div>Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-18564146839601279312011-10-11T11:06:00.000-07:002012-10-21T19:37:23.597-07:00Halloween Menu and Tips for Entertaining<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">I's Fall and pumpkins... rule</span><br />
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Autumn is my favorite season to entertain... <br />
The colors are warmer, shadows are longer and wrapping gifts won't start for at least a month.<br />
Flavors taste richer in the fall, jewel tone vegetables and fruits crowd the market... <br />
Children even the grown up ones, can be anything they want to be <i>even if it's just for one night</i>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ZdIVnAxJLYScCwKlleVvis3IQdG3l8irOnh9886fb5sCJDb8LEjtYNGiavz_Ux2pDLUTfxeFTzi7HQAJUD1jt76TmkW7MgLYnPjOUgHVkEsvT4cHxUaNs02p_ZOEMc-jpFgMWjqJkSo/s1600/-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ZdIVnAxJLYScCwKlleVvis3IQdG3l8irOnh9886fb5sCJDb8LEjtYNGiavz_Ux2pDLUTfxeFTzi7HQAJUD1jt76TmkW7MgLYnPjOUgHVkEsvT4cHxUaNs02p_ZOEMc-jpFgMWjqJkSo/s640/-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Is it me or didn't Halloween come up fast this year?</i></span><br />
Before you know it the parade of children will be at your door. Waves of squealing little ones in costumes chirping,"trick or treat! Or maybe this year, a Halloween party is part of your plans. If so choose a menu that works well for casual fun and you don't need to break the bank on displaying it well.<br />
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When planning party fare, keep in mind that guests in costumes may have a hard time balancing a plate and foods that require cutting to eat. Small palm size sandwiches, dips and finger foods tend to be best. Give your menu items clever or spooky names for the night. Offering foods that can hold at room temperature and are easy to serve make your job less scary.<br />
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Setting a table in the center of the room not only helps for easy access, it acts as a focal point as well.<br />
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Drape fall colored fabric or even a fringed shawl to add texture and theme to a basic black drape.<br />
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Save time by placing bowls and platters where they will go before they are filled. When it's time to serve it makes the process of setting food out go smoother.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTtaIFVqhsGPj9aYtQLQCabng0BbtApF2I4yRiWgCKWarvm_7Aaq11wSbo59vmzxgeJgCWCdKBOcgyqeBK2xlhr3h-2IM6UuM0B_kdzkhyphenhyphencdPih0Hr6MoiYNyM-NKQLA2fY6-G48DARtA/s1600/-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTtaIFVqhsGPj9aYtQLQCabng0BbtApF2I4yRiWgCKWarvm_7Aaq11wSbo59vmzxgeJgCWCdKBOcgyqeBK2xlhr3h-2IM6UuM0B_kdzkhyphenhyphencdPih0Hr6MoiYNyM-NKQLA2fY6-G48DARtA/s320/-4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glazed ceramic pots make great snack holders. </td></tr>
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Before you spend money on decorations, look around for items you may be able to use. A black vase, candlestick holders, rustic trays and tier stands all work great for Halloween.<br />
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Other easy fall decorations are piles of squash and pumpkins. Fall leaves, are perfect, but make sure they are not placed near candles. The classic white sheets over furniture, never goes out of style!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Trick or Treat Menu</span></div>
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Chips Dips and Finger Snacks</div>
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Creepy Cabo Shrimp Cocktail </div>
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Lava Black Bean & Cheddar Dip with Tortilla Chips<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Marinated Tortellini Medusa </span></div>
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Mozzarella Fingers in Marinara</div>
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Chili Lime Bat Wings</div>
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Snake Sausages </div>
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Deviled Egg Eye Balls</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">with rolls and relishes</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Phantom Potato Salad</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Carmel Apples and Devils Food Cupcakes</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0GtfZv62iUnObfsfaFRNb8tqofFzRRIMDFr4CTBWDX_QzMPtsaoNmVvK5s2yOWfExVuBGb8KK0hWIiTQhMkAZ6ooGmJ1lg2MpX6BLOTQ77SXN7QcoRuXTjUT-KNp7baswCtuS6rdIS4o/s1600/-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0GtfZv62iUnObfsfaFRNb8tqofFzRRIMDFr4CTBWDX_QzMPtsaoNmVvK5s2yOWfExVuBGb8KK0hWIiTQhMkAZ6ooGmJ1lg2MpX6BLOTQ77SXN7QcoRuXTjUT-KNp7baswCtuS6rdIS4o/s400/-5.jpg" width="266" /></a><br />
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<i>Have a Happy Halloween, may the fun be non stop until the last of the tricksters, giddy with sweets,</i></div>
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<i> are tucked into dreams! </i></div>
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Renee </div>
Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-84130512676297823052011-08-26T19:57:00.000-07:002011-09-02T18:28:57.291-07:00Chelsea's Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBdMqKXv65bqPBv1GhhWu6GtsXWo7dpe2FUEJXqccM516TI-9EAKvUgj05We44-9WZc4C5Lgx6MVab8tOTN90LOZ5ePvfjZfbcyaDJdtcmWXSoc2dDQ7D3xz3YEnu044M3FfL3RSbo0tc/s1600/white+rose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBdMqKXv65bqPBv1GhhWu6GtsXWo7dpe2FUEJXqccM516TI-9EAKvUgj05We44-9WZc4C5Lgx6MVab8tOTN90LOZ5ePvfjZfbcyaDJdtcmWXSoc2dDQ7D3xz3YEnu044M3FfL3RSbo0tc/s640/white+rose.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Nearly thirty years ago I fell head over heels in love with of all things, event catering. Not because I have a passion for cooking, although I'm pretty fond of creating great food and even more fond of eating it. <span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">What I enjoy most is the celebration of people by the people who love them. </span></i></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>An event caterer, is involved in some of the most important moments in peoples lives. There is nothing more beautiful then friends and family coming together to mark a special day and special people like <span style="font-size: large;"><i>Chelsea Lane.</i></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbcBgOfnao7XHvh1AxOKm21eU-H4LDczyPwh25QYyzAF0bxOGn3NxLOarEMnwECOjQaVd1MwUlEU7sG6z1X9CNdj_m8HQjEyH4bzDBk_Cio1q8yNPSiAL84LrZQJagv_6cLNWcCPKU4zs/s1600/Love+sky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbcBgOfnao7XHvh1AxOKm21eU-H4LDczyPwh25QYyzAF0bxOGn3NxLOarEMnwECOjQaVd1MwUlEU7sG6z1X9CNdj_m8HQjEyH4bzDBk_Cio1q8yNPSiAL84LrZQJagv_6cLNWcCPKU4zs/s640/Love+sky.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
The moment I began working with Chelsea's her mother, Sandy, I knew Chelsea was special. The depth of care and attention to every party detail exceeded the preparation for most graduation parties.<br />
I learned that Chelsea was diagnosed with Friedreich's Ataxia (FA) ( see <a href="http://www.curefa.org/chelsea.html">Friedreich's Ataxia </a>) at age 5. FA is an inherited progressive disease that debilitates motor skills and often leads to serious health problems. This disease has robbed Chelsea of activities that average young people experience easily but on this occasion, it wouldn't steal her day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPVnKYnX5SMxTYSJB1JQN0J3ltW0vF6LDd_3b97pUsnJ6tifgcxvbuy9Zi56eiWU5t01R8tafwNlzy0HPPPmWTO6n8NfswQ4n_yI3ODIpRCjDf6hDpC91hDg6nH-IbP-hgfpAbS0rR2HE/s1600/salad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPVnKYnX5SMxTYSJB1JQN0J3ltW0vF6LDd_3b97pUsnJ6tifgcxvbuy9Zi56eiWU5t01R8tafwNlzy0HPPPmWTO6n8NfswQ4n_yI3ODIpRCjDf6hDpC91hDg6nH-IbP-hgfpAbS0rR2HE/s640/salad.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
Arriving for set up, I found the house brimming with family and friends chattering cheerfully. Did I mention Chelsea Lane is loved?<br />
The party colors were teal, black and white. The buffet was tucked in the kitchen dining area, music and festive party tables filled the backyard.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">More then celebrating a graduation, the Lane family were celebrating Chelsea!</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; text-align: center;">Special Party Menu<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>for 70 guests </i></span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; text-align: center;">Crab stuffed Mushrooms<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Mandarin Chicken Salad<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">with ginger sesame dressing</span> </i></div></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; text-align: center;">Hibachi Beef<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>marinated tri tip with rich pineapple glaze</i></span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; text-align: center;">Vegetable Rice Pilaf</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Penne Pasta with Tarragon Chicken</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">baked with mozzarella in Parmesan cream sauce </span> </i></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> Paradise Fresh Fruit Salad</div></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJXvgpcdM1LvEeLm_l0zJYbSXbknbCcGhiLyFCNNczwP3DGWVOY3HZTyh0xJlYufo-wS1vbM1wH-LROz7Nv5ttfGmlhVAQz25vev-Svv9jmhyCJ_Q7Qe8G0cVU2NVAo1aQA0AEeJQX6L8/s1600/crab+mushroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJXvgpcdM1LvEeLm_l0zJYbSXbknbCcGhiLyFCNNczwP3DGWVOY3HZTyh0xJlYufo-wS1vbM1wH-LROz7Nv5ttfGmlhVAQz25vev-Svv9jmhyCJ_Q7Qe8G0cVU2NVAo1aQA0AEeJQX6L8/s640/crab+mushroom.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crab Stuffed Mushrooms ready for the oven</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTY9pSknREN7DCEYFzY-8rz3ckegORZiX7IB263KvL8GEsPl-8fG8P0L9qPg_e1k9Faa4EnSSrI5IQ9WDe87nkIqHUemyTzNiklj4Pauu0GmIpvDwZirUyHwnRXoLOkhNa2QmWD0qsPxM/s1600/TriTip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTY9pSknREN7DCEYFzY-8rz3ckegORZiX7IB263KvL8GEsPl-8fG8P0L9qPg_e1k9Faa4EnSSrI5IQ9WDe87nkIqHUemyTzNiklj4Pauu0GmIpvDwZirUyHwnRXoLOkhNa2QmWD0qsPxM/s640/TriTip.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hibachi Beef resting</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTC9hWjkB2pMOn6U8tZoZpstL7hJnF9L1W_BG8zl70BO04AGfgQjtBK2IVzEZqfgeDjj4DIzApI1f7sToTBzE8BcMLlpG31cuAlVfl0FbBQO0O-uj52b_d1LFRNoSBfXWheMWLPvJHRoM/s1600/manderin+chicken.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTC9hWjkB2pMOn6U8tZoZpstL7hJnF9L1W_BG8zl70BO04AGfgQjtBK2IVzEZqfgeDjj4DIzApI1f7sToTBzE8BcMLlpG31cuAlVfl0FbBQO0O-uj52b_d1LFRNoSBfXWheMWLPvJHRoM/s640/manderin+chicken.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Mandarin Chicken Salad recipe will appear in next post</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="Chelsea" height="300" src="http://www.curefa.org/images/people/chelsea.jpg" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Chelsea Lane is courageous, loved and her family's perseverance inspiring. Sadly soon after the party Chelsea developed a heart virus. Please remember her and her care givers in your prayers.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">To learn more about <a href="http://www.curefa.org/">Friedreich's Ataxia</a> (FA) and how to help, please click on the link or go to http://www.curefa.org </div><br />
Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-72706661107301564372011-08-23T12:17:00.000-07:002011-08-23T12:17:57.527-07:00Hatch Chili's at a Catered Reunion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOPCUklsMluW7QNsKKFo66N37rSlUO_xECkJ2R0H07MR1kXw37hM8n1Txmy68sZ_6FP7hM0TZfBDbbiHS_niKR6soEQ-dMSFe1VTACi0iKPt7DIz4oygDiQeaQGMuXeHz5iTgwDAVc6VY/s1600/table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOPCUklsMluW7QNsKKFo66N37rSlUO_xECkJ2R0H07MR1kXw37hM8n1Txmy68sZ_6FP7hM0TZfBDbbiHS_niKR6soEQ-dMSFe1VTACi0iKPt7DIz4oygDiQeaQGMuXeHz5iTgwDAVc6VY/s640/table.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Behind the 91 freeway sound wall it was hot enough to melt freckles. Had I known in 5th grade that you could melt away freckles in an Anaheim neighborhood, I might have visited sooner. I'm sure the engineers didn't intend to dam the breeze for the houses behind it. No one would be that cruel.<br />
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Still, hot or not, Summer will always call folks outside to gather. Most backyards will usually see at least one event or more in the season before school busses roll again. Most will center around grilled foods and precious family time that you can never have enough of. Backyards are my speciality, and I love when I get a chance to cater with fresh seasonal ingredients.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhave8aNN1_rBItlJDkfdRq636dMrz7it1KtwRDeUyOqNOq06c-7AsevXtIbX77Q8cVfkHuqwvsVcj7YCfj0j3qw4NgFJiTxt-w7eg7JTvLZ5doK50yuAntZIjue9YC0I2JZFu7ESBQJQs/s1600/Party+girl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhave8aNN1_rBItlJDkfdRq636dMrz7it1KtwRDeUyOqNOq06c-7AsevXtIbX77Q8cVfkHuqwvsVcj7YCfj0j3qw4NgFJiTxt-w7eg7JTvLZ5doK50yuAntZIjue9YC0I2JZFu7ESBQJQs/s640/Party+girl.jpg" width="596" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPyIWqRVeDMeKga_VKoPR0Z836rpg4QjZkQgOv-sofeajOgynQx6lH6TrEJZkBA38VSi1qSIsbPbBAUCCqH1sG5fXcemsqxb-2gmprBJuIIOMpdqSuwa6XwHWWuHo_IKkl0b1aBr_bA6o/s1600/hatch+close+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPyIWqRVeDMeKga_VKoPR0Z836rpg4QjZkQgOv-sofeajOgynQx6lH6TrEJZkBA38VSi1qSIsbPbBAUCCqH1sG5fXcemsqxb-2gmprBJuIIOMpdqSuwa6XwHWWuHo_IKkl0b1aBr_bA6o/s640/hatch+close+up.jpg" width="472" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTjHPmwRjpkHwfGQqB-c06S3BAS8kfIHP82_d8Wz1KkWI3DmUShdA2nt5WTEHiKlFalbY3B782Vw7o9ZA0efhH5YHnF_ZCxPeXLqCvSmt3cS2vzDTONI1HKs1nH9_yzaIMx4cJrw_cBPM/s1600/Corn+sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTjHPmwRjpkHwfGQqB-c06S3BAS8kfIHP82_d8Wz1KkWI3DmUShdA2nt5WTEHiKlFalbY3B782Vw7o9ZA0efhH5YHnF_ZCxPeXLqCvSmt3cS2vzDTONI1HKs1nH9_yzaIMx4cJrw_cBPM/s320/Corn+sign.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Just before I catered Sunday's family reunion,<br />
the Fed Ex truck had arrived with a box from <a href="http://www.melissas.com/">Melissa's</a>, (foodie equivalent to a gift from the North Poll). Santa at Melissa's sent famous Hatch Chili's in various whimsical shapes and Scoville values, delightfully fragrant and, kind of well... sexy.<br />
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For the party I chopped the spicy ones into the Tex Mex Dip and the milder ones were served along with grilled corn.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNEZsA4ZfbX_0KNf6802BN3QLRKZVtSPAjg2hPD4NpgPt9uVHBMxS2tWtOHGRULswGg6tpInfPsxJr-DIACqZHfpfSEn2m5dYKXWKJ390lpBZpIbt4UQnD_xemiS13m5OvzaqAQsLnQHY/s1600/Lady+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNEZsA4ZfbX_0KNf6802BN3QLRKZVtSPAjg2hPD4NpgPt9uVHBMxS2tWtOHGRULswGg6tpInfPsxJr-DIACqZHfpfSEn2m5dYKXWKJ390lpBZpIbt4UQnD_xemiS13m5OvzaqAQsLnQHY/s640/Lady+back.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdGIY2BoxnrqdQ7rF7vaH-Ih-O54_QlZxqGmyDuIQxLYVuCb0F8hv4nZLeEFI6k0VPrf5NLr6LyKgxtKOM8xKRVq9JLdC-lFMZnd-uyxO99FzCsFfmFzYc2quKZ_q6zUvkXlvdHZgE3r0/s1600/tex+mex+dip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdGIY2BoxnrqdQ7rF7vaH-Ih-O54_QlZxqGmyDuIQxLYVuCb0F8hv4nZLeEFI6k0VPrf5NLr6LyKgxtKOM8xKRVq9JLdC-lFMZnd-uyxO99FzCsFfmFzYc2quKZ_q6zUvkXlvdHZgE3r0/s400/tex+mex+dip.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Summer Family Reunion </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Menu For 30</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Tex Mex Dip with Hatch Chili's and Handmade Chips</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Vine Ripe Pomodoro and Toasted Garlic Bruschetta</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Tri Tip with Spicy Apple Cider Mop</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">BBQ Chicken Brochette</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Grilled Corn with Roasted Hatch Chili's</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Baked Beans with Bacon and Caramelized Onions</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Ruby Gold Potato Salad</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Country Cole Slaw</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Garden Salad with Buttermilk and Raspberry Balsamic Dressing</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Corn Bread Muffins</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Fresh Sliced Watermelon</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Chocolate Dipped Strawberries</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Handmade Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches</span><br />
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The New Mexico Hatch Chili is a grandparent of the Anaheim Chili seems like a good fit to roast and serve them at a friendly family gathering. Once blistered and allowed to sweat, the Hatch Chili's skin slips easily off leaving a silky pepper in your hands. Enjoy them in an omelette, quesadilla or turn them into a delicious salsa.<br />
They have a limited season but can be stored in the freezer and used in delicious dishes for months. If you can't get away to New Mexico... Melissa's Produce can bring fresh Hatch Chili's to your door!<br />
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Learn more from Melissa's Chef Ida at: http://www.melissas.com/Recipes/Videos/Hatch-Chiles.aspx<br />
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Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-42713014737926178622011-04-11T10:20:00.000-07:002013-03-02T15:48:35.803-08:00Quick Penne with Spicy Shrimp!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFglqp4rJUPNDUNByK1YJoTyMilDxotyR1f7wcTkh61ouTiKH7ZVFQ1qYOATs5cDdoXJ5ZBJTrOJoAXLwJpEEhfUOblH3-3hT5L8c7JmkgCr50yaqEDRflgrejfX0eb2ZaeDfBuEZ-kE/s1600/shrimp+penne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFglqp4rJUPNDUNByK1YJoTyMilDxotyR1f7wcTkh61ouTiKH7ZVFQ1qYOATs5cDdoXJ5ZBJTrOJoAXLwJpEEhfUOblH3-3hT5L8c7JmkgCr50yaqEDRflgrejfX0eb2ZaeDfBuEZ-kE/s640/shrimp+penne.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Cooking healthy, fast and easy meals for your family is a challenge. Creating a dish when your allergic to it is even more challenging. I know this because sadly, I am one of many people with an allergy to shellfish. Just because I cant eat it doesn't stop me from from cooking shrimp for others (although it's kinda like sculpting while wearing a blind fold) I chose shrimp for my cooking class because it's perfect for getting a healthy meal on the table in record time.<br />
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It's smart to keep a bag of shrimp on hand for quick meals. If it's purchased frozen and kept frozen shrimp can be stored a few months but should be used before four. The 40-50 size (count per pound) is a perfect size for this dish, purchase it uncooked, peeled and deveined.<br />
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Pasta is another ingredient it's good to have on hand for homemade fast food. I used penne in this recipe, but farfalle is also a nice choice. I like low fat sour cream instead of heavy cream to lighten the recipe up a bit and frozen peas are an easy vegetable addition. If you don't cook with alcohol, flat cream soda is a good replacement for Sherry.<br />
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This is the third recipe in the "Meals In Minutes" series from a cooking class I taught at the Yorba Linda Library last month. I hope you enjoy, Quick <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;"> Penne with Spicy Shrimp, Peas and Garlic it's </span>simple and delicious (so I hear). My family, thankfully helped me test it and class attendees liked it too. <br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">Quick Penne with Spicy Shrimp, Peas and Garlic</span></b><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">2 tablespoon olive oil</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">8 ounces penne pasta</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">1 pound shrimp</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">1 each shallot, chopped</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">4 clove garlic, minced</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">1 teaspoon red pepper flakes</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">1/4 cup sherry</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">1 cup chicken broth</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">8 ounces sour cream, low fat</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">½ cup peas</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">1/2 cup parmesan cheese </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">1 teaspoon salt</span><br />
2 teaspoons fresh Italian parsley chopped<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">Cook pasta in boiling salted water about seven minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">Over high heat in a large skillet (12-14 inches) add 2 tablespoons olive oil , shallot and garlic. Cook until shallot is translucent.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">About 30 seconds add shrimp and chili pepper, cook about 2 to 3 minutes until they start to turn pink, then remove shrimp.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">Carefully pour in sherry, whisking up any bits on bottom of the pan. When sherry is reduced by half, add chicken broth and bring to simmer and whisk in sour cream and parmesan cheese until incorporated. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">Stir in shrimp, peas, pasta, salt and pepper to taste. Cover and let set for 3 to 5 minutes. Before serving stir in parsley.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia,'Times New Roman',serif;">Serves 4-6 </span>Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3132835283201737746.post-82069534210120734802011-01-23T08:19:00.000-08:002012-02-09T21:19:07.153-08:00Trends 2011 Menu and Catering<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN_LEAejR5kbbJ_htrNztyauN8GMIKhpz1XOggQpaQVDDhTdxXukD6K2sP8J_lc_s94V37qofyQ9KcvJzvoHYhSgodPIX7LPPPGlCGjuKBLJQxyqIMRaUMcXRVodq0be7VgUvuU2IKfGQ/s1600/tables.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN_LEAejR5kbbJ_htrNztyauN8GMIKhpz1XOggQpaQVDDhTdxXukD6K2sP8J_lc_s94V37qofyQ9KcvJzvoHYhSgodPIX7LPPPGlCGjuKBLJQxyqIMRaUMcXRVodq0be7VgUvuU2IKfGQ/s640/tables.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
More on what we will see in catering and on the menu in 2011. There is no doubt that the march is on to put better things on our plate and into our bodies. This isn't a new idea, but it is a continuing trend gaining momentum and excitement. Caterers and Event Planners will create menus around seasonal, fresh ingredients, from sustainable sources and styles of service that showcase these dishes. Comfort foods, homemade and even homegrown are popular.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Here are 7 trends and ideas to consider when planning your events in 2011;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ZtbRfqCI9ejCX7q4C9U6vvHit3td6Wu4LvskH8N2_6tn0nQpUvbuhQeI8MF6wpHnvp1TSYC5LZ0gnKHrky4C1qTC0Heyz_MoIOw-ohxdFLtWrBs2vXcrVjp3oioBg5Hs2MyIUqe44CQ/s1600/market.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ZtbRfqCI9ejCX7q4C9U6vvHit3td6Wu4LvskH8N2_6tn0nQpUvbuhQeI8MF6wpHnvp1TSYC5LZ0gnKHrky4C1qTC0Heyz_MoIOw-ohxdFLtWrBs2vXcrVjp3oioBg5Hs2MyIUqe44CQ/s400/market.jpg" width="400" /></a><b>1. Fresh, seasonal and unique- </b>Chefs will market more frequently for freshness, choosing ingredients from farmers markets, their own gardens or stands. They will make organic choices even when prices are higher. Purveyors are finding open minds abd are bringing more exotic fruits and vegetables to the market. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDHqMP_YrKpdX8hOgKrrNs6fvuW_8jdI1eaOXx0s9ksqc73C7eWdMliu-VfXOMPtXCXoYBWJ423mB2WQ7n4XkBtYVrIAv5eRA8-f0ErICj0Z101PlIlof6tPNmACWSO6neNDUrcLXtc1s/s1600/tomato+salad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDHqMP_YrKpdX8hOgKrrNs6fvuW_8jdI1eaOXx0s9ksqc73C7eWdMliu-VfXOMPtXCXoYBWJ423mB2WQ7n4XkBtYVrIAv5eRA8-f0ErICj0Z101PlIlof6tPNmACWSO6neNDUrcLXtc1s/s640/tomato+salad.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>2. Vegetables move to the center of the plate- </b>As people learn to add variety and balance to there diets, meatless meals are gaining acceptance, even from meat lover's, Hearty vegetable salads feature grilled corn, broccoli and heirloom tomatoes. Stews are chock full of vegetables like butternut squash and Lima beans. Don't be surprised if the salad bars return to luncheon events!<br />
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<b>3. </b><b>Entertaining </b><b>foods will draw from the past</b><br />
Event menus will often feature upscale comfort foods but in smaller portable portions for easy service.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We will see more twists on the classics, like baby chicken pot pies, bbq pulled pork parfaits, mini meat loafs, pasta-tinis, mac'n cheese squares and sliders in every flavor. </div><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZe8bIqkGLQZYCPQkll_LLwc9lWeMK1mzC9GEWQz_W0LVIoIeI83u9JpgMIZ66RZvzbQ-IH2yoIKNETnhdb2pjpRs-ipnU3dOoC5w-l3queHZp3HTz7RkL16Kam3CJOkECL2zDNzeLwUw/s1600/banana+choc.+pancake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZe8bIqkGLQZYCPQkll_LLwc9lWeMK1mzC9GEWQz_W0LVIoIeI83u9JpgMIZ66RZvzbQ-IH2yoIKNETnhdb2pjpRs-ipnU3dOoC5w-l3queHZp3HTz7RkL16Kam3CJOkECL2zDNzeLwUw/s320/banana+choc.+pancake.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b>4. Both brunches, and casual cocktail events</b> <b>are popular</b>- Backyard brunches in a relaxed family setting will become the place to serve; sweet and savory crepes, French toast, pancakes and mimosas.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
Cocktail events in 2011 will continue to feature an eclectic tapas style dinning. This year globally infused dishes including Korean and Middle Eastern flavors will inspire menus.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<b>5. Cooking class and guest chefs entertain</b>- In the new climate of foodies and fans of Food network, hands on cooking class style events are creating a great way to entertain.<br />
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Hosts hire local or popular chefs to come out to their parties to prepare a signature dish, a new kind of <i>wow</i>.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2-4R5oYHJZ0f6bSAe0gl_AJE9YAgoDBgMMf-12ltrZRmb02OWXE2hebP9y7mzf9Imc2NJRLUMxWVDj8s6DY4XEpZ35UwHeDWH0ssapMN2YK4XyHSC0tu2cXB9JEyWG_0E8H3uzB_tSVI/s1600/Food+Truck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2-4R5oYHJZ0f6bSAe0gl_AJE9YAgoDBgMMf-12ltrZRmb02OWXE2hebP9y7mzf9Imc2NJRLUMxWVDj8s6DY4XEpZ35UwHeDWH0ssapMN2YK4XyHSC0tu2cXB9JEyWG_0E8H3uzB_tSVI/s640/Food+Truck.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><b>6. Food Trucks and Specialty Shop Fare-</b> Creative gourmet food trucks now offer party catering and can create a buzz at an event. One of a kind foods prepared or served on site by specialty food shops like, Kettle Corn or Dippin' Dots make memorable food stations.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBYQlFPLHym6AHwEBygjd_t_pDXKAmuKjFo_PJJQ51QEV3f7u8S0ZzU2Kep5i3GcVl2-XQKliFPEdWPe9ILtMHRAIQfLzLfrdkdvRtGRuJkYFop0fflxR2I8YusmDYHUF1PZnilyr4ac/s1600/cobbler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBYQlFPLHym6AHwEBygjd_t_pDXKAmuKjFo_PJJQ51QEV3f7u8S0ZzU2Kep5i3GcVl2-XQKliFPEdWPe9ILtMHRAIQfLzLfrdkdvRtGRuJkYFop0fflxR2I8YusmDYHUF1PZnilyr4ac/s320/cobbler.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBYQlFPLHym6AHwEBygjd_t_pDXKAmuKjFo_PJJQ51QEV3f7u8S0ZzU2Kep5i3GcVl2-XQKliFPEdWPe9ILtMHRAIQfLzLfrdkdvRtGRuJkYFop0fflxR2I8YusmDYHUF1PZnilyr4ac/s1600/cobbler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"></span></a><br />
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</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBYQlFPLHym6AHwEBygjd_t_pDXKAmuKjFo_PJJQ51QEV3f7u8S0ZzU2Kep5i3GcVl2-XQKliFPEdWPe9ILtMHRAIQfLzLfrdkdvRtGRuJkYFop0fflxR2I8YusmDYHUF1PZnilyr4ac/s1600/cobbler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>7. Desserts go retro-</b> Pies will be the #1 dessert choice for 2010. Cupcakes are still popular, but we will also see individual pies, flourless chocolate cakes. and old time favorites like homemade Whoopie Pies, Ding Dongs, and Snow balls. Do it yourself 'Smore set ups and candy tables replace the "been there, done that" chocolate fountain.<br />
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For weddings, many brides are returning to butter cream frosted cakes. They are also choosing or adding individual desserts in place of the cake. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnp-GvsPl997IQDvUzCRm1RneeiXToeIncGdVgMBr-auT613T0puiYqphrBmdSkYLOJO87H0GpUAyeoTD77EVV0XxX_PHsTtvIBvkXD2-jm1gi3X5NZc6OZe9uzLopbBvWii3N-t61WiI/s1600/Pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnp-GvsPl997IQDvUzCRm1RneeiXToeIncGdVgMBr-auT613T0puiYqphrBmdSkYLOJO87H0GpUAyeoTD77EVV0XxX_PHsTtvIBvkXD2-jm1gi3X5NZc6OZe9uzLopbBvWii3N-t61WiI/s640/Pie.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Spot any trends? Trying anything new this year? Drop me a comment, I'd love to hear!</div>Renee Weir- Fonteshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05441908955945141424noreply@blogger.com6