Painted Preppy

Butterfly Birthday Party Ideas

2012-01-25T11:53:00.000-08:00

My grandmother has another birthday coming up this summer and I wanted to start planning early this year, she has always loved butterflies and I think this is the year we should throw her an amazing butterfly themed birthday party. I have found a lot of inspiration for butterfly themed birthday parties, but they are mostly for kids. However, it did give me some idea's on how to change up the butterfly kids party and make it more adult friendly. Here are some of the party ideas that I found, I hope they inspire you as well!

These Butterfly cupcake toppers are a must have! Can you believe they are made out of sugar and are completely edible? I found them on etsy, simply adorable.

I was looking for a more adult looking invite and I think this one may serve as an inspiration!

These are a couple of invites that I designed for a kids butterfly birthday party!

Valentines Handmade Cards

2012-01-23T20:05:00.000-08:00

I love card making and I love valentines day as well, so it's no secret that I would love making my own Valentine handmade cards this year. I found a ton of cute inspiration pictures and I think I have an idea of the direction I want to go in, use lot's of pink glitter and unique folding techniques that will reveal a surprise inside!

What about you, do you like to make Valentine handmade cards?

Orange Chicken Recipe

2012-01-22T19:20:00.000-08:00

Orange Chicken is by far one of my favorite Chinese dishes, with my food allergies is hard to eat it out in a restaurant, so I am always on the lookout for a yummy new orange chicken glaze recipe! I made this one tonight and took a few pictures to share so you can see just how delicious it really was. I use success white rice because it always turns out perfect and I love buttered white rice with any dish. I also got onion, red and green peppers fresh from the farmers market and sauteed them in a little butter. Then to make the Orange Chicken Glaze I combined orange juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, rice wine, and cornstarch to thicken the sauce. I also fried my own small chicken pieces and then poured the glaze over the chicken and served on rice with the peppers and onions, it was some of the best Chinese food I have ever cooked!!

Orange Chicken

Purple room ideas

2012-01-22T16:01:00.000-08:00

The more I see purple popping up in the market the more I begin to like it again. When I was small purple was my favorite color, well an odd mix of pink and purple together was my favorite, but that's a story for another day. Anyway back on topic, purple rooms are beginning to grow on me, especially when mixed with silver and cream accents. Although I normally would'nt go for a dark purple wall, the lighter colors appeal to me with dark plum accents. Here are a few examples of some of the purple rooms that I found while perusing on Pinterest!

I think this purple room exhibit's the perfect balance of the color, not too dark, but dark enough you would need a good mix of lighter furniture and accessories. The purple chair in the second picture would be a great way for someone that only wanted to add a hint of the color in their room. I adore the third picture, if I were going to use purple walls in my bedroom, this is the way I would go, it look elegant and calming, LOVE!

I love the color of this lavender lemonade, wouldn't that make a stunning addition to your party decor!

Mason Jar Mugs

2012-01-21T16:16:00.000-08:00

I adore Mason Jar mugs, I have watched as they rise in popularity and are being used in wedding and party planning, so when I saw them with bows I thought they were just adorable! Check these mason jar mugs out here: www.jbeedesigns.com for your next party or event!

Valentine's day Inspiration

2012-01-10T10:05:00.000-08:00

I love Valentine's day so i wanted to offer a little inspiration if you are thinking about what to serve for your special day!

I found these brownie strawberry cupcakes with cream cheese frosting, yum! You take a brownie mix and fill half way, then take a strawberry cake mix and fill the other half, top with cream cheese icing and you are done.

Then I came across these sweet treats that would be perfect to serve your kids when they wake up, what a fun treat to wake up to on Valentine's day.

Free Cakes

2012-01-03T21:33:00.000-08:00

January 3, 2012 Category: Cakemechanic Blog

By the end of this post someone will have just finished working 12 hours and 20 minutes working on a cake for a birthday, baby shower or wedding. They will have skipped sleep, missed a day with their family and spent a good penny on ingredients. Pushing themselves as they juggle between sleep and sanity. All for a free cake! Yes you heard it here. FREE CAKE!

How is this cake free you ask? I’m sure you want to grab one of these for your next event. You too can have a cake “as seen on tv” for free!

Let me explain something to you. When cake artists are at work. They usually put in about 300% more work than most people. Like many artists they are in this for the passion and love. Like they say “love don’t pay the bills”.

Well the reality is, the bills have to get paid. No matter how appealing a free cake sounds and you would love to get a great deal. Its like stealing! Yes you are robbing someone, who has worked incredibly hard to make you edible art that will adorn your function. Feel guilty yet? If the answer is “NO” then my time is wasted on you. I suggest you go to your local grocery store to get your next dream cake. If you have little respect for the artists then this cake is not for you.

So perhaps stealing is too strong a word. But borrowing implies you’ll be giving it back. I’m not sure rent-a-cake is going to catch on. Or whether anyone would want their “borrowed” cake back after you’ve had a slice.

Wondering why I am against the free cake idea. Well lets say many of us in the industry have been asked for discounts that are often insulting and sometimes a little crazy. Its understandable that we all have reasons to save money and love a good deal. But this is not the place for a bargain. Cake decorators don’t exactly make a lot on cakes. Well you have a few who do. But thats only the ones you usually see on television with brands that represent them. The majority are not on television and are equally talented. They do not demand remarkable prices. Many undervalue the costs of their cakes. So when someone requests a 3 tier cake with all the trimmings and sparkle for under a $100. Well its just unfair.

So lets make a resolution starting this year. Lets forget about the “free cakes” and start appreciating the workmanship and time these artists invest in your cake.

Movie star prints in front of Grauman's Chinese Theatre to be moved???

2012-01-02T13:17:00.000-08:00

When I read the title of this article I had to look twice thinking I must have read this wrong,............. right?

Nope. In the future some of the most popular movie star hand and foot prints may need to be moved in order to preserve them. The more I read the more I understood why, but I am still not sure they should be moved. I remember my first trip to Hollywood and that was one of the things I wanted to see first were the hand/foot prints of Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable in front of Grauman's. I do believe they should be preserved, maybe put some sort of covering over them to protect them forever and not have to move them. Here is the link to the story from the LA Times:
http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/movies/la-et-graumans-20111229,0,5878832.story

What are your thought's on this matter, should they be moved?

Pretzel Pie Bars

2012-01-01T15:20:00.000-08:00

Here at Painted Preppy we do have a few people with food allergies, one allergy on that list is Pecans. I love Pecan Pie, Pecan Pralines, anything to do with pecans, unfortunately I have had to give up a lot of my favorite foods that used pecans. So my mother came up with this great recipe for mock pecan pie, use all the same ingredients as a pecan pie just substitute pretzels or the pecans and voila! You won't believe the taste, you hardly miss the nuts, they are chewy, gooey, crunchy, salty, sweet, and just down right delicious!

Ringing in 2012 with a pink news years eve party!

2011-12-31T14:03:00.000-08:00

Wow, I can't believe that 2011 is almost over, this year has gone by too fast, but I am excited for what 2012 has in store for me. We are having a small party tonight and I was inspired by this picture I found of a pink new years eve party with silver and gold accents.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Merry Christmas from Painted Preppy!

2011-12-24T12:45:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to all of our followers!

I got an early Christmas present, a Canon Rebel, here is the first image I shot with at the dinner table, i love how the candle light illuminated the little characters!

More gift wrap inspiration!

2011-12-15T23:21:00.000-08:00

I love to give presents and as much as I love to give them, I also love to wrap them! As promised here is some of my favorite Christmas wrapping inspiration, check out the reindeer box as well as the shiny red boxes that look like a shirt, so creative!

I never thought about using shiny white paper and bright colored bows, but I adore the way this looks!

Gift Wrap Ideas

2011-12-15T10:15:00.000-08:00

In the next few days we will be posting a ton of gift wrapping inspiration, so be sure to check back! Today I found this adorable tutorial on Pinterest, love the polka dot paper!!

New DIY tutorial section

2011-12-12T12:52:00.000-08:00

Hi all, hope everyone is having a great December!

We have a new section on Painted Preppy, DIY tutorials, here you will find DIY tutorials on many different subjects. Each month we will feature a new tutorial, January will feature how to assemble your own cupcake toppers!

Santa Hat Brownies

2011-12-09T12:30:00.000-08:00

I just came across these santa hat brownies and I think they are just adorable!

I ran across a photo of these on Erica’s Sweet Tooth. They’re so good and easy to make, I can't wait to share these with my family and friends! Here is the recipe below:
Santa Hat Brownies
Adapted from this recipe found on Erica’s Sweet Tooth
Yields 12-16 brownies
Ingredients:
1 pan of your favorite brownies, cooled and cut into desired size and shape (I used a round cutter)
12-16 small strawberries, cleaned and hulled
vanilla-mascarpone buttercream (recipe below)

Mascarpone Buttercream
Ingredients:
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
8 ounces mascarpone cheese, room temperature
2-1/2 to 3 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
pinch of salt
Method:
Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat butter and mascarpone cheese until light and creamy, about 2 minutes. Add vanilla extract and salt. Add 2-1/2 cups of sugar, half a cup at a time and continue beating until smooth. Add more sugar, if needed to reach desired consistency and sweetness.
To assemble, pipe a ring of vanilla buttercream on top of each brownie. Cut off the base of a strawberry so it is flat and place it upside down on each brownie, pushing slightly to secure in place. Top the tip of the strawberry with a dot of buttercream to finish the santa hat.

Color of the year for 2012 TANGERINE TANGO!

2011-12-08T13:00:00.000-08:00

The world doesn't need more gray, and the blues are covered, too. What consumer products need is a jolt, a shot of energy and boldness, all of which comes from Tangerine Tango, the reddish-orange hue that Pantone announced Wednesday as its top color for 2012.

"There's the element of encouragement with orange, it's building on the ideas of courage and action, that we want to move on to better things. I think it would be a disservice to go with a relaxed, soothing color now," said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, the research division of Pantone Inc., which creates color standards for the fashion, beauty and home industries.
The annual forecast for the next year's dominant color takes into consideration both what Pantone thinks shoppers want and need. Those are influenced by the designer runways, fabric shows, news events, pop culture and consumer habits. "Part of what we do is look at the zeitgeist," Eiseman explained. "We have to look at everything in the world around us. It's not an arbitrary choice."

Consumer spending is a big player in reviving the economy and it needs adrenaline, she said. Orange is a more urgent call to action than last year's hot-pink hue Honeysuckle, which was also supposed to channel cheerfulness coupled with nostalgia. Before that, there was the more serene turquoise and optimistic yellow.

Article by:

By Samantha Critchell

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

2011-12-02T13:11:00.000-08:00

Decorating Christmas cookies has always been a long standing tradition around our house, my grandmother always make sugar cookies and decorated them with the smallest of details. When I saw these Christmas cookies from Sugar Belles I feel in love!! They are so cute and festive, I could stare at the pics all day. The cute little penguins look like they are actually wearing sweaters, genius!! The platter of cookies with the santa face, reindeer, and the present are just adorable. Who wouldnt want to serve these cookie at their Christmas party or family gathering, just delightful!

Are you keeping up with the Kardashian's?

2011-11-30T10:43:00.000-08:00

ARE YOU KEEPING UP WITH THE KARDASHIANS?

Don't we wish! Beauty and brains! These girls have got it all, and then some. Today I'm sure most of you read Kourtney is expecting her second child, and if this one's a girl...look out baby fashion world, you might be turned on your ear. Baby Mason is adorable, and Kourtney's sense of style comes through loud and clear when you see him all decked out for the beach, or a holiday celebration. His Easter suit was no disappointment, he was a perfect little gentleman in his blue and white pinstriped jacket and matching pants.

His Mom only feeds him organic, and makes all the baby food that he eats! She also eats organic, and, she's a runner! That's where the beautiful body comes from. For those of us that don't have the option to buy organic, or don't have the time or space to plant a full garden of our own; you might try a container garden for fresh tomatoes, peppers and onions, just to name a few. Green beans could easily grow in a container if planted correctly. Not only is this really healthy for you, but it's so rewarding when you can see the fruits of your labor.

A couple of tomato containers may be enough for eating fresh and having enough left to can or freeze for use in the winter months. This is a great wallet saver too!

As far as running, if you're not a runner, but wish you could stay in shape, check out some of the treadmills on Home Shopping's site. They have a few that are affordable, and can easily help you gain that body your wishing for! It would make a great Christmas gift that you'll use all year long.

Happy shopping!

Photos courtsey of:

posh24.com

nessaleebaby.blogspot.com

Holiday Giveaway Peppermint Bark & Holiday Printables!

2011-11-28T03:02:00.000-08:00

Get in the Holiday spirit with our latest giveaway!

Chocolate in the Oven Bakery is giving away an entire box of their delicious Peppermint Bark, perfect for a party or sharing with your family. We are also offering free Holiday printables, that include a free holiday card, food tags, gift tags, drink flags, and table banners. Just click the link below to download:
http://www.mediafire.com/?45zn5uwhth6r04c

Enter to win Peppermint Bark:
Becoming a follower of Painted preppy 1 entry
Follow us on facebook 5 entries
Blog about the giveaway: 5 entries
Post to facebook about the giveaway: 2 entries
Tweet about the giveaway: 1 entry

Italian Fashion Designers Graziano Moro and Renato Pigatti

2011-11-21T22:56:00.000-08:00

I was searching for sweaters and came across this site. It's an Italian Designer, and some of the sweaters on this site are really great! Scroll through and you'll also find coats and other clothing items that would be a great gift or just for yourself! The sweaters look really comfy, and would be a nice piece to add to your wardrobe for the season. Take a look!

http://www.magazzinidelsale.com/en/chi-siamo.php

Also...found these outdoor chairs...they are really fantastic! They're a little on the pricey side, but even a couple of them on a porch, or on the patio would be worth having. They look like they would be comfortable to lounge around in, and a really cool splash of color, no matter which one you choose. Hope you enjoy these sites. Cheers!

Marinated chicken & sweet cranberry bread recipes!

2011-11-17T13:24:00.000-08:00

Tonight, I decided to make a couple of old favorites, and I'll share them with you, and hopefully you'll share them with your fam. I made a great marinated chicken recipe that is really wonderful and so easy!!! We love easy and delicious! Served it up with a side of spaghetti, tossed in Italian dressing, and sprinkled with fresh parmesan cheese, and Italian style green beans. Then, I made cranberry orange bread for the finish! So, here's the recipes:

Marinated chicken

1 cup of Italian dressing (kraft)

2 teaspoons of lime juice

2 teaspoons of honey

2 packages of chicken tenders

Mix the dressing, lime juice and honey, and put the chicken tenders in a large plastic storage bag, (one that will seal well) pour the dressing mixture over the chicken and marinate it in the fridge overnight. Next day, or evening, pour the chicken and all the marinade in a large skillet and cook it on med high heat for at least 30 minutes, then turn heat down to med low, to low, and cook another 30 minutes. If your stove gets really hot, you'll have to adjust the temps. Just make sure you cook the chicken and marinade for an hour, and the chicken is tender enough to cut with a fork.

Cranberry orange bread:

2 cups of flour

1 cup of sugar

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon soda

Sift above ingredients together

1 beaten egg

1 teaspoon of grated orange peel

3/4 cup of orange juice

3 Tablespoons of oil

Combine above and add to dry ingredients and stir only til moistened

1 1/2 cups of chopped fresh or frozen cranberries

1 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (pecans)

fold into batter

Bake in a greased loaf pan on 350 for one hour.

(I doubled this and baked it in an 8 X 11 dish for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until a toothpick comes out clean in the center.

You can serve this buttered, or with honey butter, or..I prefer to ice this with cream cheese icing, or drizzle with a powdered sugar glaze. Whatever your favorite it's a great bread!

TIP, after I take this out of the oven, I cover it with foil, and leave it sitting until cool. It really helps to keep the bread moist and flavorful. I hope you enjoy both these recipes!

Tomorrow I'll be giving some information about a great site from a wonderful Italian designer. They have great coats, sweaters, etc. So please tune in then, and hope you enjoy the recipes, cheers!

The Best Cranberry Salad Recipe Just in Time For Thanksgiving!

2011-11-15T02:11:00.000-08:00

So, tonight I sat down and went through recipes with my Mother who is 87 years old. I was the second family kid, you know, the one that comes along after she's practically raised the others! Well, anyway, she's a young 87, in looks and actions! We filled a three ring binder, and then she said, "wonder how long it will take to go through the hat box full I still have in the other room" I decided it was for another night! But, we had a great time organizing and categorizing all these great recipes.

Now, I gotta tell ya, I laughed and laughed because on some of the recipes, my brother had drawn pictures, and on one of them, my sister wrote how old her Parents were! What's really funny is when Mom asked me why I wrote on her recipe! I pointed out that it wasn't me, I wasn't here yet! There, were peoples names, and phone numbers, and on a lot of them, she wrote where and why she served this or that recipe! So, while I have my own cubby full of recipes, I decided that I would share a salad recipe that she and I both have in our collection. I always like to give credit where credit us due, so, this one goes out to my Aunt Nita. She always looked like a movie star when I was a kid! A pretty blonde, who always had every hair in place, and looked like she stepped off magazine cover...and still does to this day! Anyway, she gave this recipe years ago, and when it's time for Turkey and all the fixins, this is one of the first things I write on the "meal list". It's a cranberry salad, and I swear, you could spread it on a chrome bumper, or steel pipe, and it would taste good! So, girly's get out your favorite dish, glass, crystal or plastic...better if you can see through it because it's a pretty dish, and very appetizing!

Aunt Nita's cranberry salad

1 small package of cherry jello

1 small package of orange jello

1 can of whole cranberry sauce (ocean spray)

1 can of jellied cranberry sauce (ocean spray)

1 16 ounce can of crushed pineapple (del monte)

1 cup of celery - chopped

1 cup of chopped pecans (optional)

Drain the pineapple juice in a large measuring cup, and then fill the cup with water to total 2 cups of liquid. Pour juice and water into a sauce pan, and bring to a boil. Dissolve both packages of jello in boiling water, and add both cans of cranberries. Continue to stir until the cranberries are dissolved in juice. Add the pineapple, celery, and nuts if desired. Stir well, and pour into dish and refrigerate over night.

A little tip: If I'm making this for Thanksgiving, I usually make it on Tuesday night, cover it with plastic wrap, and leave it in the fridge til time to serve. It's great with the big meal, and, I have yet to meet anyone who didn't love it on a left over turkey sandwich! I've even made turkey, and swiss cheese, on the griddle with the cranberry salad and it was fabulous!

Alright Ladies, I hope you love this as much as we do, please let me know...enjoy it!

New contributing writer!

2011-11-14T01:58:00.000-08:00

Last week I sat down with screenwriter, Debra Latta, and after a very funny conversation, I am pleased to announce that she has agreed to be a contributing writer for Painted Preppy. We want to bring something new and interesting on a daily basis, so stay tuned for the schedule. We will try to feature party ideas, recipes, (she's a great cook, so you should really enjoy that feature) vintage items, pet info, fashion and entertainment, just to name a few.

As far as Debra, I think you are really going to find her posts fascinating, and you'll want to use her suggestions for your table, or a great tip in the kitchen, as well as which movies to watch, both old and new. She has agreed to also include a few funny stories from her friends in the entertainment industry, and possibly give us some gossip about up and coming films.

So, be sure to follow along with us, and tell your friends. Enjoy and happy reading!

Cake Pops!

2011-11-13T12:27:00.000-08:00

J. Bee Designs is now offering cake pops! Perfect for your next holiday party or gathering, check them out here:
http://www.jbeedesigns.com/store/WsDefault.asp?One=542

The fantastic flying books of Mr. Morris Lessmore

2011-11-07T14:26:00.000-08:00

I have been around the block when it comes to the design world, looking back I can't believe that it has been 10 years since I started out as a young interior designer in Philadelphia..............wow how time fly's. Since that time I have started businesses and worked on getting my MFA and the more I delved into the world of interactive design and 3D animation the more and more I felt like I finally knew what I wanted to be when I grow up. I have been deciding/working on what my final thesis project this semester, which is no easy feat, but I discovered something so delightful along the way I knew I had to share with my readers.

The Fantastic Flying Book's of Mr. Morris Lessmore is hand's down the best iPad app I have seen to date and by far the best interactive story book you will ever find. From creator James Joyce, hailed pixar alum and his company Moonbot Studio's, they have managed to create a meaningful story that not only keeps the user engaged in new inventive way's but also created a new character in Morris Lessmore and his book-legged friends, that is not only loveable but enchanting as well, I can't get enough!

Enjoy!
http://youtu.be/z38EdtRHlnA

How to peel garlic in 10 seconds!

2011-09-30T12:23:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you guys, but I hate peeling garlic, its tedious and stinky, and no good for a manicure. When I saw this video I knew I had to shre it!

Executive Food Editor Todd Coleman shows us an amazing trick for peeling an entire head of garlic in less than 10 seconds — no acrid fingernails, no knife required.

What you'll need:

2 deep bowls of equal size

How it works:

Smash the head of garlic with the heel of your hand.

Sweep the cloves into one bowl.

Invert the second bowl over the top of the first bowl.

Hold the bowls together where the rims meet and shake the dickens out of them.

Here's the link to see the video:

http://www.saveur.com/article/Kitchen/video-How-to-Peel-a-Head-of-Garlic-in-Less-Than-10-Seconds

Brown Family visit's Florida!

2011-09-24T19:53:00.000-07:00

Wow, I can't believe it has already been a week since the Brown's came to visit us, we had so much fun while they were here! The entire family came to the Vinoy pool and we had so much fun swimming, laughing, and eating together. My 87 year old grandmother was here with all of us and she even sat at the side of the pool with her feet in the water, so happy she is capable of being out with all of us. She had two daughters there, 4 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren, quite a long lineage!

Here are a few fun pictures to share of our happy weekend!

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Pie!

2011-09-11T17:08:00.000-07:00

1 9-inch deep-dish pie shell, unbaked (see our favorite recipe below)
1/2 Cup flour
1 Cup sugar
2 eggs, slightly beaten
1/2 Cup butter, melted and slightly cooled
1 Cup quick oats or oatmeal (or ½ cup oats and ½ cup chopped nuts, if you prefer)
1 Cup chocolate chips (Stephanie prefers mini chips)
1 tsp. PURE VANILLA EXTRACT

Crust for single crust pie:

1/4 lb. butter (1 stick)
1 Cup flour
pinch salt
pinch sugar
2 TB milk

Preheat oven to 350°. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and sugar. Add the eggs and mix. Add the butter and mix again. Fold in the oatmeal or nuts, chocolate chips and VANILLA. Pour into the pie crust. Bake at 350° for about 30-35 minutes, until golden.

Pie Crust: To prepare the crust, cut the butter into small pieces; it doesn't have to be cold, but it should not be warm to the point of melting. Add the flour, salt, and sugar to the butter and beat or mix by hand to combine. Add the milk in a thin stream, mixing until thoroughly blended. Form into a ball and chill until it can be easily handled. Sprinkle a wooden board or counter top with flour, place the dough on the board, and sprinkle the top of the dough with flour. Using short strokes, roll it from the center to the edges until it is 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. You will want to turn the dough over and re-dust with flour halfway through. Roll until the crust is about an inch larger than your 9-inch pie pan when inverted. Fold the crust in half and in half again so that it looks like a triangle. Place it in the ungreased pie pan with the point in the center. Unfold the crust and ease it into the pan. Roll the edges of the overhanging crust under so that you have a nice rim around the pie plate. Prick the crust all over with a fork.

Prep. time: 10 minutes plus pie shell making time
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Serves: 8

I'm back!!!!!

2011-09-03T12:51:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's been a while since I posted anything, I took some time off for the summer from blogging, but I had no idea that I hadn't even been on blogger since July, wow!

My MFA classes started on Sept. 1st and I am loving every minute so far, I am taking Flash animation and Interactive concepts, which is a thesis development course that will help me to develop my thesis project to present to the midpoint review committee, whoo hooo, I can't wait, so excited.

I have been waiting to take this particular animation course for months now and can't wait to share with you some of my animated shorts that I will be working on :) :) :)

Today is also the first day of the college football season, go FSU!!!

I am an FSU alum class of '09.

Kate Middleton Style

2011-07-11T11:17:00.000-07:00

I am in love with this DVF silk green dress that Kate wore in LA this past weekend, not only does it tie with a bow in the front, but has tiny buttons all the way up the back, to die for!

Entourage Season 8: Extended Trailer (HBO)

2011-07-07T23:00:00.000-07:00

I can't wait for entourage to start up again, although it is the last season and I will be sad to see it go, I can only hope the movie will follow shortly! If you aren't familiar with the show you have time to catch up before season 8 starts at the end of the month. The shows premise is about 4 best friends that are making their way in Hollywood and all the "drama" that comes along the way. It also gives great insight into the entertainment world and how things really work in the industry, as many of you probably don't know this but my mother is a screenwriter and watching her work first hand really makes the show so much more fun for me, because that's the way the industry really works and I find it all fascinating! enjoy the trailer :)

Tufted headboards

2011-07-07T12:07:00.000-07:00

The more I look around for new designs to add to my bedroom re-decoration project the more I think i like a tufted headboard. Many of you know how I loved the aqua ottoman from my last post, but I think I am also moving towards and shimmering champagne color for my tufted headboard. Check out these inspiration pics below!

Tufted ottoman

2011-06-30T14:19:00.000-07:00

Love, love love this tufted ottoman!

Sweet treats!

2011-06-15T21:45:00.000-07:00

Pink sweet treats inspiration board I created tonight!

Enjoy!

Monday morning pretties!

2011-06-12T22:16:00.000-07:00

I was never a big fan of Monday mornings, everything starting over again, argh. It reminds me of one of my favorite movie quotes from office space, when the annoying woman always asks, "if he has a case of the Monday's".

Here's a little Monday eye candy to to lift your spirits!

A rack of pink party dresses............. to die for?

Lunch anyone?

Grilled zucchini pizza!

2011-06-11T23:46:00.000-07:00

This idea of grilled zucchini used as a base for pizza toppings is one of those cooking ideas that swirl around in my head, and sometimes I'm never sure if I thought of it or saw it somewhere else.

Even so, this is only a recipe in the very loosest sense of the word, because anything you like on pizza could be cooked on top of a thick slice of grilled or broiled zucchini. I'm a pepperoni girl, so of course I had to have that, but the topping options are endless here. Admittedly, this is not a pizza in the truest sense of the word, but if you'd like pizza flavors with a "crust" that's gluten-free, low-glycemic, and low-carb, this is an idea you may end up liking just as much as I did!

I used an over-sized 8-Ball zucchini to make my pizza, but any large zucchini could be used here. You may want to slice it lengthwise if it's a long zucchini. (I wouldn't use the enormous zucchinis that are mostly seeds inside.) In an earlier post I shared the types of sauce, pepperoni, and cheese I use to make South Beach Diet Friendly Flatbread Pizza. I do like the Muir Glen Organic Pizza Sauce I used in that recipe, but this time I didn't want to drive to Whole Foods, so I was pleased to discover that this sauce from my neighborhood grocer also only had 3 grams of sugar per 1/4 cup.

Cut slices of zucchini about 3/4 inch thick, then brush both sides lightly with olive oil.

Grill the zucchini slices on one side for about 7-8 minutes, or until there are some grill marks and the zucchini is starting to get tender. (If the slice has one side that's larger, grill that side first so it's the top of the pizza.) If you don't have a grill, this could definitely be cooked under the broiler.

Remove the zucchini slices from the grill and put on a cutting board with grilled side up so you can carry them into the kitchen to add the toppings.

I put about 1 T pizza sauce on the top of each zucchini slice, but the amount will depend on how big your slices of zucchini are. You can heat the sauce if you'd like, but next time I might not bother. (I think Basil Pesto or some type of white sauce would also taste great on this.)

Then put other toppings as desired on top of the sauce. I added a pinch of pizza cheese, a few slices of turkey pepperoni, and then a slight sprinkle of additional cheese. (I used to laugh when Emeril said on TV "We're really cooking here," but you can see there was no food stylist for this shot. Sorry about the messy photo, but you get the idea.)

Then put the topped pizzas back on the grill (or under the broiler) and cook for 7-8 minutes more (or probably less time for broiling.)

Remove pizza from the grill and serve hot! This pizza will be a hit with zucchini-loving adults who like pizza. I'm not sure if kids who were real picky about veggies would eat this, but I'm guessing quite a few kids would like it.

{Recipe from Pinterest}

New pet design company Pawcasso Paws

2011-06-08T11:41:00.000-07:00

I am in love with this new pet company, Pawcasso Paws, you can check them out here: http://www.pawcassopaws.com/

They feature fun, modern designs for your pets, friend them on facebook to keep up with the brand and to find out what retailers will be carrying Pawcasso Paws!

Eye candy!

2011-06-02T16:19:00.000-07:00

I love shoes and I especially love this pair. I normally don't wear purple, but they are to die for, a little bling with cute bows on the back, you cant go wrong! These are a piece of art as far as i'm concerned.

Million Dollar Decorators Season Starts May 31st

2011-05-20T21:31:00.000-07:00

Million Dollar Decorators Season 1 - Coming Up in the Premiere Season - Video - Bravo TV Official Site

Cant wait for this one!

Maralago Turkey burger recipe

2011-05-17T17:31:00.000-07:00

I love cheeseburger's and while they aren't the best thing on the menu if you are watching your weight, I tend to eat them anyway. :) I would much rather not eat red meat, but as far as i am concerned I have never come across any veggie or turkey burger that tastes as good. I WAS WRONG! I used Jennie-O lean ground turkey meat and it turned out great! The famed recipe is from the head chef at Maralago, Donald Trump's exclusive club in Palm Beach, try it out for memorial weekend, you will be pleasantly surprised!

Servings: Serves 8

Ingredients

1/4 cup thinly sliced scallions
1/2 cup finely chopped celery
3 Granny Smith apples , peeled and diced
1/8 cup canola oil
4 pounds ground turkey breast
2 Tbsp. salt
1 Tbsp. black pepper
2 tsp. Tabasco® chipotle pepper sauce
1 lemon , juiced and grated zest
1/2 bunch parsley , finely chopped
1/4 cup Major Grey's Chutney , pureed

Directions

Sauté the scallions, celery and apples in the canola oil until tender. Let cool.

Place the ground turkey in a large mixing bowl. Add sautéed items and the remaining ingredients. Shape into eight 8-ounce burgers. Refrigerate for 2 hours.

Season the turkey burgers with salt and pepper. Place on a preheated, lightly oiled grill. Grill each side for 7 minutes until meat is thoroughly cooked. Let sit for 5 minutes.

Serve with a side of Mar-a-Lago Pear Chutney and your favorite toasted bread, pita or hamburger roll.

Oh Land-We Turn it Up (better quality)

2011-05-16T18:13:00.000-07:00

Love this song!!

Something Borrowed - Official Trailer [HD]

2011-05-06T18:33:00.000-07:00

Crazy Stupid Love - Official Trailer [HD]

2011-05-02T13:44:00.000-07:00

I can't wait to see this movie, I love, love, love Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, and Emma Stone, was dying laughing when she told him he looked "photoshoped". This is a must see!!

Whheeeeeewwwwww what a weekend!

2011-05-01T19:10:00.000-07:00

OK, so I have never been been the "party hard" type of girl and I can honestly say that I have no clue what it feels like to have ever been on a drunken bender over the weekend, but I am exhausted after staying up for all the Royal wedding festivities. We decided that it would be fun to stay up and just not go to bed in order to watch ALLLLLL of the royal wedding coverage. We streamed the coverage live from the BBC and watched all the guests arrive, starting with the first! It was so much fun, my mother spent a LOT of time in London when she was younger and part of my family lived there for over 13 years, and she had so much fun pointing out places she remembered being. Seeing all of the hats was an event in itself, oh how I wish hats would come back in style again, everyone looks polished in the right hat! Anyway, it was worth staying up until 8:30 in the morning to see all the fashion and the wedding, I enjoyed every minute.

And the winner is........

2011-04-21T12:06:00.000-07:00

Tote's Thoughts is the winner of my blog design contest! Please email me here: poshpalm@gmail.com

Congratulations!!

Free blog makeover giveaway!

2011-04-07T12:57:00.000-07:00

Whoooo Hoooooo! Free blog makeover from Posh Palm Web Design has finally arrived! Posh Palm is offering a free header, background, button, custom signature, and post divider design to the winning entry! If you have always wanted a custom character sketch or dreamed about having a beautiful blog design enter away, the more you blog about and spread the love the more chances you have to win.

If you have been wanting to start up a new business you can apply this giveaway to your new business logo design!

Please read below for rules and entry requirements:

You must comment on this post to enter and include any of the extras below to gain extra entries!

Friend Posh Palm on facebook for 1 extra entry here:
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Posh-Palm-Web-Design/134750993212195

Friend posh palm on twitter for 1 extra entry: http://twitter.com/#!/poshpalm

Blog about this giveaway on your blog for 5 extra entries.

Become a new follower of Painted Preppy for 7 extra entries!

The winner will be announced on April 18th so you have a lot of time to spread the word!!

Good luck and happy designing!

Indie Spotting

2011-04-06T15:56:00.000-07:00

I was so happy to receive the news that J. Bee Designs was featured on Indie Spotting blog yesterday! To view the post click here: http://www.indiespotting.com/shop-showcase/meet-j-bee-designs/

While I was on her blog I came across the cutest shop on etsy called, Antique Basket Lady, I fell in love with her parisian print tote, isn't it just adorable!

To view her shop visit the link here: http://www.etsy.com/shop/Antiquebasketlady?ref=seller_info

Upstairs Downstairs Premieres April 10

2011-04-04T13:00:00.000-07:00

As some of you know I am a huge fan of BBC movies and programming, before I was born a large part of my family lived in London for almost 20 years, and I have always heard the many stories or life abroad. Needless to say I was very intrigued from an early age, which developed a love of all things British, including British TV and cinema. My family always talked about the shows they enjoyed while being there such as: some mothers do have em and all the monty python series.

We have always watched Msaterpiece Theatre, but lately they have been turning out some real gems, like Downton Abbey and now Upstairs Downstairs there latest series. If any of you are familiar with the movie Gosford Park and you enjoyed it, you are going to love Upstairs Downstairs!

Synopsis and plot below:

"When the master of 165 Eaton Street, Sir Hallam Holland, carries his wife across the threshold of their new home, Lady Agnes exclaims with pleasure, "What a ghastly old mausoleum!" Neglect has strewn cobwebs everywhere and furred the surfaces with dust. But with a sumptuous renovation and the help of the indomitable housekeeper Rose Buck (Jean Marsh), the iconic address so beloved in the original series Upstairs Downstairs is soon restored to its former glory.

It's 1936, a tumultuous time in Britain, and within the walls of 165 Eaton Place, characters from an orphanage, a damp Welsh castle, the heart of the British Raj and elsewhere together will face a changing world, not just upstairs and downstairs, but side by side. Written by Heidi Thomas (Cranford, Madame Bovary), Upstairs Downstairs stars co-creators of the original series Jean Marsh and Eileen Atkins (Cranford, Bertie and Elizabeth). Also starring are Ed Stoppard (Any Human Heart), Keeley Hawes (Wives and Daughters), and Claire Foy (Little Dorrit)."

Courtsey of http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/masterpiece/upstairsdownstairs/index.html

Animation spotlight

2011-04-01T21:53:00.000-07:00

As many of you know I am getting my MFA in interactive design, which includes animation, I ADORE creating new animations, in fact it can be addicting at some times. Although I have yet to begin using maya and flash, I am almost there in my program and I cannot wait to create cute little characters and make them really come to life like a Pixar charater would.

For the time being we are working with photoshop animations and honing our storyboarding & timeline skills, that being said I wanted to share with all of my readers my latest animation, and yes the illustrations are all mine!

Click the screen to play.

Cupcakes!

2011-03-31T13:00:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that I love sweets and I especially love, love, love cupcakes. Who would'nt love a sweet treat bundled in frosting and a cute wrapper? When I cam across this cupcake shop I fell in love, not only with the design, but with the amazing cupcake creations they offer. At I Bake Cakes, you can choose from so many different flavors and the best part is they don't use eggs or animal products, so for those people who are allergic to eggs and love cupcakes, this is the shop for you!

To visit this adorable site, click here: http://www.ibakecakes-manni.blogspot.com/

Check out her creations below!

This could be the cutest cupcake I have ever seen!

Sponsor Announcement!

2011-03-30T18:51:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to announce Painted Preppy's newset sponsor, 2Chic Designs. They started designing handbags & accessories in 2003, they offer adorable and preppy wristlet's and totes. Cynthia of 2Chic Designs states that she wanted to design handbags that were practical and also beautiful. I wanted to inspire the way that a woman can create and outfit with just the right accessory.

I personally adore the plaid wristlet, I plan on ordering one this week!

You can shop 2Chic Designs online here: 2chicdesigns.etsy.com

Christian Louboutin Spring 2011

2011-03-28T09:42:00.000-07:00

I love shoes, high heels, flats, flip flops, and especially designer shoes, which I consider little works of art. I also adore the color aqua, so I was pleased as punch to see the new Christian Louboutin spring 2011 collection, heels in the most beautiful shade of aqua, my new prized possession. I also love the new flash design the Louboutin website is using, the little heels that trot around the site are just adorable, check it our here: http://us.christianlouboutin.com/

Enjoy the pictures!

John Kiraly: artist spotlight

2011-03-25T12:48:00.000-07:00

Having grown up in Florida and surrounded by the amazing works of John Kiraly, I was quite surprised that I haven't posted on his art sooner. Born in Miami John Kiraly's works are a magical mix of tropical, european, and fantasy scenes that will transport you into a different reality. You can easily lose track of time trying to visually take in all of the little details in his works. If you aren't familiar with his work I have included some of my most favorite pieces below.

View to Ravello

Positano Moon

View to Sorrento

Temple of the swim

Miss Liza's Hideaway

http://www.gingerbreadsquaregallery.com/

Spring Swap!

2011-03-24T18:40:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce that I will be hosting a spring swap, if you are interested please comment on this post. I will then pair all the names and post a list of all swap partners on the spring swap page on the blog. The swap has a spring theme and a $30 limit, that does not include shipping! Names will be announced and the swap will begin April 8 and most packages should be mailed by the 15th!

Happy swapping!

Hostess with the mostess feature is up!

2011-03-23T13:09:00.000-07:00

I am so excited that J. Bee Designs is being featured on The Hostess with the Mostess blog today, we partnered with HWTM and are giving away a $150 dollar shopping spree to J. Bee Designs. Blog about it and spread the word!

Click here to enter:
http://www.hostessblog.com/2011/03/surprise-giveaway-j-bee-designs/

Handbag love!

2011-03-21T21:08:00.000-07:00

I am in love with Ellen Allen's line of handbags and scarves. I have been searching for a new bag for spring and I was hoping for something green and boy did I find it here: http://www.ellenallen.com/

Spring designs are in!

2011-03-17T18:31:00.000-07:00

I have been so excited to share with all my blog readers my new exciting news! J. Bee Designs will be featured on The Hostess with the Mostess blog on March 22nd just in time to unveil our new designs for spring! As a special treat I am giving my blog followers a sneak peak of our new collection. Check back in a few days for the details on the post and more details about our upcoming giveaway.

Damask and dots margarita glass and matching pitcher!

Damask swirl

Damask and zebra notepads

Molly melamine plate set

Cupcake party!

2011-03-05T15:32:00.000-08:00

Check out J. Bee Designs new cupcake party plate, bowl, mug, and placemat set, it's the perfect addittion to your party decor!

www.jbeedesigns.com

EIFFEL TOWER Cheese grater!

2011-02-25T16:19:00.000-08:00

I came across this cheese grater yesterday and I am in love! How cute is this? The best part is it's only $21.50, these are a must have for stocking stuffers next year!!

Have a great weekend!

Jen.

My favorite Beverly Hills restaurant

2011-02-21T22:09:00.000-08:00

The prettiest restaurant in LA is by far Villa Blanca, I adore the interior and the large enclosed patio is the perfect place for a relaxing lunch. Kim Kardashian and Gerard Butler are just a few of the celebs that have been spotted there. Lisa Vanderpump is the owner and interior design of the restaurant, she is also one of the the housewives of Beverly Hills. They also just reduced their prices due to the recession, making this amazing restaurant attainable for anyone!

New Spring 2011 from Vineyard Vines

2011-02-09T02:21:00.000-08:00

I was so excited to receive my VV catalog today, I cant wait to order all of these cute dresses and sweaters!

Coach enamel jewelery spring 2011

2011-01-30T16:53:00.000-08:00

I adore enamel jewelery and Coach, so I was so excited to see the new line for spring 2011! They have some amazing new designs, I especially love the hot pink butterfly ring and the bracelets, classic preppy styles to punch up any spring outfit!
Check the out here: http://www.coach.com

Calypso St. Barth for Target!

2011-01-28T21:45:00.001-08:00

The cheap-and-chic retailer just announced their latest designer collaboration exclusively to InStyle--they'll be teaming up with the celeb favorite Calypso St. Barth, which offers bikinis, caftans, and fabulous home furnishings usually in the multiple hundreds of dollars range. But come May, their stuff will be available at Tar-zhay for just $1.99 to $79.99.

"Calypso St. Barth is a renowned global brand with an incredibly loyal following and we think Target’s guests will love the no-fuss, sophisticated appeal of the collection,” Calypso SVP of merchandising Trish Adams told the mag. "The Calypso St. Barth for Target collection is timed perfectly for summer and offers our guests destination-chic style at incredible prices."

The collection will be comprised of women's and children's clothes and accessories (that's a beach dress from the main Calypso collection, above), as well as home items like pillows, candles, and glassware. It's hitting stores and Target.com on May 1, and i', officially pumped.

Check out these great style options below!

New cutting board design!

2011-01-10T12:42:00.000-08:00

I adore these glass cutting boards, afetr I received so many Holiday orders for them it gave me a chance to actually view them in person, and they turn out amazing.

It inspired me to come up with a few new designs for 2011 and I thought I would share here!

Have a great Monday.

Gnoman master class

2011-01-06T14:31:00.000-08:00

OK, so I am trying to complete my entry giveaway and so I posted the flyer on the BB at my local post office, here is the picture:

Gnoman Schhol Master Classes

2011-01-06T12:42:00.000-08:00

I have wanted to take classes at Gnoman for almost two years now, finding the time has been hard, but I do have some time this Spring and I would love to try it out. I have been trying to read all that I can on animation and special effects, I have had 1 class in after effects, and I cant wait to learn flash and maya.

If some of you aren't familiar with Gnoman you can check them out here: http://www.gnomonschool.com/

Chances are if you have seen Avatar or any other blockbuster movie, someone from Gnoman had a hand in the visual aspect of making the film.

So if your ready to start learning more about animation, FX, gaming, and visual art, check out Gnoman and sign up for the master class series and learn from the best!

Enjoy, Jen.

Pantones color of the year 2011

2011-01-01T18:58:00.000-08:00

I am so excited that the "it" color of 2011 is Honeysuckle, a vibrant pink!

Here's what pantone had to say about the new vibrant pink for 2011:

A Color for All Seasons

Courageous. Confident. Vital. A brave new color, for a brave new world. Let the bold spirit of Honeysuckle infuse you, lift you and carry you through the year. It’s a color for every day – with nothing “everyday” about it.

While the 2010 color of the year, PANTONE 15-5519 Turquoise, served as an escape for many, Honeysuckle emboldens us to face everyday troubles with verve and vigor. A dynamic reddish pink, Honeysuckle is encouraging and uplifting. It elevates our psyche beyond escape, instilling the confidence, courage and spirit to meet the exhaustive challenges that have become part of everyday life.

“In times of stress, we need something to lift our spirits. Honeysuckle is a captivating, stimulating color that gets the adrenaline going – perfect to ward off the blues,” explains Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “Honeysuckle derives its positive qualities from a powerful bond to its mother color red, the most physical, viscerally alive hue in the spectrum.”

Eiseman continues, “The intensity of this festive reddish pink allures and engages. In fact, this color, not the sweet fragrance of the flower blossoms for which it was named, is what attracts hummingbirds to nectar. Honeysuckle may also bring a wave of nostalgia for its associated delicious scent reminiscent of the carefree days of spring and summer.”

Honeysuckle is guaranteed to produce a healthy glow when worn by both men and women. It’s a striking, eye-catching hue that works well for day and night in women’s apparel, accessories and cosmetics, and in men’s ties, shirts and sportswear. Add a lively flair to interior spaces with Honeysuckle patterned pillows, bedspreads, small appliances and tabletop accessories. Looking for an inexpensive way to perk up your home? Paint a wall in Honeysuckle for a dynamic burst of energy in the family room, kitchen or hallway.

Source: Pantone

New Years Eve Decor

2010-12-28T11:34:00.000-08:00

I love New Years Eve, from the glittery party decor, to the sparkling dresses and champagne I can't get enough! Wishing everyone a Happy New Year from painted preppy.

My 31st birthday!

2010-12-22T17:15:00.000-08:00

In honor of my 31st birthday yesterday, here is one of my favorite birthday songs!

The Waitresses - Christmas Wrapping

2010-12-07T20:48:00.000-08:00

Personalized cupcake ornaments!

2010-12-03T10:57:00.000-08:00

I still have a few of these left, they went so fast i didnt have time to add them to J. Bee designs, but they are listed on etsy if anyone wants some email me!

$12.50 each

Polo shirt ornament!

2010-11-30T12:40:00.000-08:00

Our polo shirt ornaments are flying out of the shop, they come in an array of color combos, even for boys! Get em while you can!

http://www.jbeedesigns.com/store/WsDefault.asp?Cat=Christmasornaments&isThumbs=No&curpage=2&Thumbs=

Personalized iPhone cases now at J. Bee Designs!

2010-11-22T13:41:00.000-08:00

J. Bee Designs now has their own line of iPhone cases! New designs added daily, dont see the design you want, email us and we design a custom cover for you!

Want your personal sketch or a sketch developed for you to put on you iPhone case or blog, email J. Bee Designs!

http://www.jbeedesigns.com/

Coupon codes!

2010-11-22T10:46:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday!!

I can't believe that Thanksgiving is getting so close, I feel like it was summer just a few days ago! For all my blog followers I am offering 2 coupon codes:

Free shipping on all orders over $150 thru Dec. 25 - enter code JBDFREESHIP

Get an extra 10% off all orders thru Dec. 25 - Enter code JBD10

Check out our new monogrammed cutting boards, coasters, and cube pads!

Greek key print glass cutting board!

Preppy glass coaster set of 4

Teacher gift!

2010-11-17T11:43:00.000-08:00

I had a request for a melamine platter design for one of my clients that needed a custom teacher gift. I came up with the following design and she absolutely loved it!

If any of you are planning on ordering melamine plates or platters from me for Christmas please be aware that the cutoff date for standard shipping is Dec 1.

You can order here from my etsy shop or email from J. Bee Designs website!http://www.etsy.com/shop/paintedpreppy

Happy holiday shopping.

Jen.

'Cause I'm A Blonde

2010-11-08T11:41:00.000-08:00

A couple of nights ago my mother and I were talking and laughing about the 80's and I remembered she and my cousin singing this song and laughing when I was small. I was surprised to find the video on youtube so I have included it below, if you need a lighthearted laugh on a Monday, check out these fun quotes and the video below! :)

For the valley girl in all of us!

1. To the max – Translation: To the extreme.
2. Barf me out – In response to someone who says something offensive.
3. Gag me with a spoon – A response to something you don’t like.
4. Tubular – something that is cool.
5. Totally
6. Rad/Radical – attractive
7. Gnarly – Great/cool
8. Have a cow
9. Grotesque – you’re making me sick.
10. Hoser – i.e. jerk/loser
11. For sure/fer sher – Used in exclamation, as “Fer sher, dude!”
12. Awesome
13. Bogus – Unfair.

P.S. Watch for the guy in the red tank top in the video, it is Jim Carrey before he was "Jim Carrey".

Lulu and Daisy giveaway!

2010-11-02T12:59:00.000-07:00

Lulu and daisy is hosting a wonderful giveaway courtsey of Invite Cottage. The giveaway includes the following:

A stunning cutting board for your preppy kitchen!

Needlepoint Sandals

Personalized Sticky Note Cube...a must have for any kitchen or desk!

Adorable Enclosure Cards for everyone in the family!

Hop on over to her blog and sing up today, you have until November 12th to enter!

http://luluanddaisy.blogspot.com/2010/10/holiday-giveaway.html

Cake balls recipe

2010-10-18T11:34:00.000-07:00

Confectionery Wedding Favors With Cake Pops

Story by chaps676

Published on October 7, 2010 in How-To

Baking blogger Bakerella had no idea that she would start a phenomenon. It was love-at-first-bite after she tried a cake ball at a party. After that, she began her own experiments with the bite-sized dessert. She decided to insert lollipop sticks into the cake, resulting in cake pops. In her new book, Cake Pops, Bakerella gives simple instructions to create these treats using boxed cake mix. She has been kind enough to share her recipe for Bride & Groom Cake Pops from her new book. First, start by making basic cake balls, then continue to the next recipe. You'll soon have the cutest wedding favors your guests have ever seen!

Basic Cake Balls

Cake balls are bite-size balls made of crumbled cake mixed with frosting and covered in candy coating. They are super-easy to make and form the basis of endless variations of decorated cake pops, cupcake pops, and cake bites. Makes 48 cake balls.

You'll need:

18.25-ounce box cake mix

16-ounce container ready-made frosting

32 ounces (2 pounds) candy coating

9-by-13 inch cake pan

Large mixing bowl

Large metal spoon

Wax paper

2 baking sheets

Plastic wrap

Deep, microwave-safe plastic bowl

Toothpicks

Resealable plastic bag or squeeze bottle (optional)

1. Bake the cake as directed on the box, using a 9-by-13-inch cake pan. Let cool completely.

2. Once the cake is cooled, get organized and set aside plenty of time (at least an hour) to crumble, roll, and dip 4 dozen cake balls.

3. Crumble the cooled cake into a large mixing. (The best technique is to use your hands! Cut the baked cake into 4 pieces. Remove a section from the pan, break it in half, and rub the two pieces together over the bowl until both pieces are crumbled.) You should not see any large pieces of cake. Add three-quarters of the container of frosting. (You will not need the remaining frosting.) Mix it into the crumbled cake, using a large metal spoon, until thoroughly combined. If you use the entire container, the cake balls will be too moist.

4. The mixture should be moist enough to roll into 1 1/2-inch balls and still hold a round shape. After rolling the cake balls by hand, place them on a wax paper-covered baking sheet.

5. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for several hours in the refrigerator, or place in the freezer for about 15 minutes. You want the balls to be firm but not frozen.

Bride & Groom Cake Pops

You'll need:

48 uncoated Basic Cake Balls

64 to 80 ounces (4 to 5 pounds) white candy coating

Black candy coloring (not food coloring)

192 miniature white confetti sprinkles

48 miniature black heart sprinkles (from Poker Shapes)

2 deep, microwave-safe plastic bowls

48 paper lollipop sticks

Styrofoam block

Wax paper

Baking sheet

Large squeeze bottle

Toothpicks

To decorate:

1. Have the cake balls chilled and in the refrigerator.2. Melt the white candy coating in a microwave-safe bowl, following the instructions on the package. The coating should be about 3 inches deep for easier dipping. (I usually work with about 16 ounces of coating at a time.)

3. When you are ready to dip, remove a few cake balls at a time from the refrigerator, keeping the rest chilled.

4. One at a time, dip about 1/2 inch of the tip of a lollipop stick into the melted candy coating and insert the stick straight into a cake ball, pushing it no more than halfway through. Dip the cake pop into the melted coating, and tap off any excess coating, as described in "Dipping Methods." (See below)

5. For the grooms, place half of the cake pops in the Styrofoam block to dry; you will be dipping these a second time.

6. For the brides, place the remaining coated cake pops, ball-side down, on a wax paper-covered baking sheet, and let dry completely.

7. Transfer one-third of the remaining white candy coating to a large squeeze bottle, and pipe coating for the bride's dress in opposite directions (as shown in the photo). Place back on the wax paper to dry.

8. Tint the remaining two-thirds of the candy coating with black candy coloring. Keep adding color until you achieve a rich black. Then dip the groom cake pops in the black candy coating, holding the pop in a diagonal direction and dipping it into the coating until half covered. Remove and dip the other side in the opposite diagonal direction to form a black V-shaped jacket. Place the groom pops, ball-sides down, on a wax paper-covered baking sheet. Let the brides and grooms dry completely.

9. When the pops are dry, use a toothpick to dot a small amount of melted white candy coating in position for the bride's necklace and the groom's buttons, and attach white confetti sprinkles. Use the same technique to attach 2 black miniature heart sprinkles in position for the groom's bow tie. The pointed ends of the hearts should be facing each other when attached.

10. Use some of the leftover black candy coating to finish the bow ties. Just dip a toothpick into the coating and apply a small dab over the heart sprinkles where the two pointed sides meet. Let the brides and grooms dry completely.

Additional Tips: Dipping Methods for Cake Pops

Make sure your coating is deep enough to completely submerge the firmed cake pop. Small, narrow, and deep microwave-safe plastic bowls are best, so you can hold the bowl easily without burning any fingers. Glass bowls can get too hot. Dip about 1/2 inch of a lollipop stick into the melted coating and insert it into a cake ball, pushing it no more than halfway through. Then dip the cake pop in the melted coating, completely covering the cake ball, and remove it in one motion. If the coating is too thick, gently tap off any excess. Hold the pop over the bowl in one hand and tap your wrist gently with your other hand. if you use the hand holding the cake pop to shake off excess coating, the force of the movement will be too strong and could cause the cake ball to loosen or fly off the lollipop stick. Tapping the wrist holding the cake pop absorbs some of the impact. The excess coating will fall off, but you will need to rotate the lollipop stick so the coating doesn't build up on one side, making it too thin or too hot. It's not as hard as it sounds; it just takes a little practice.

Check out Bakerella's book for more instructions for making other adorable cake pops. They're almost too cute to eat!

Post courtesy of etsy blogs.

Pride and Prejudice DVD GIVEAWAY!!

2010-10-11T22:24:00.000-07:00

Some of you may know this others may not, but Jane Austen is by far my favorite author. I have read pride and prejudice I dont know how many times, I have watched and watched the BBC movie with Colin Firth countless times, and I have seen the new movie many, many times.

I thought it might be nice to share my most favorite Austen story with my blog readers, so I am giving away Pride & Prejudice on DVD, I will pick a winner on October 25th.

Here are the rules:

Comment on this post - 1 vote

Be a follower of painted preppy - 1 vote

Blog about the giveaway on your blog - 3 votes

Become a fan of painted preppy - 1 vote

Become a fan of J. bee designs on facebook - 3 votes

Christmas ornament 2010

2010-10-09T21:22:00.000-07:00

I know it is early, but I just unveiled my new ornament designs for 2010 and I had to share with all my fellow bloggers!

Enjoy!

Why I love October!

2010-10-01T12:37:00.000-07:00

It's no secret I love Fall, especially in Florida, the temperature cools down to a pleasant 85 degrees, and there is a slight breeze, perfect and comfortable temps. I also adore fall decor, cute little pumpkins, fun Halloween decorations, it feels like home, vanilla and cinnamon candles, and vege chili!

Enjoy your weekend and these fun fall pics!

Birthday party fun!

2010-09-27T23:13:00.000-07:00

My mother's birthday is coming up on December 3rd and I figured I had better start planning now! I am thinking of throwing her a fun, multi-colored polka dot party!! I know it sounds a little childish, but I plan on mixing adult fabrics and themes with some fun polka dot pieces thrown in. I am still deciding on color scheme, but I think I may go with several different colors!!! :)

I came across some really fun pictures on my search and I thought I would share.

enjoy!

Candy colors

2010-09-15T14:47:00.000-07:00

I adore this picture, not only for the candy colored balloons, but because I would love to float above Paris in a hot pink dress! :)

Have a great day!

New melamine plate design!

2010-09-14T12:25:00.000-07:00

I have been working on a new line of birthday plates for kids and so far I have finished 1. Grad school has started again and I have been swamped with orders and homework, that why I have been slacking when it comes to blog posts. Here is the picture of the new plate design more to follow soon!

Have a great week,

Jen.

Fall Swap!

2010-08-31T12:17:00.000-07:00

The first day of September is tomorrow and Fall is fast approaching! Fall and Halloween are both favorite times of the year for me and in honor of that I thought I would sponsor a fall swap. If I get enough people that sign up and would like to participate I will then match everyone up and publish the list! Spread the word and take our fall swap button if you like!

The swap will start September 7th and all packages must be mailed by September 21st! The swap will have a fall theme, it can be pink and green fall or whatever fall theme you would like to go with.

Happy swapping!

Thanks, Jen.

Adorable dog houses and beds!

2010-08-30T10:44:00.000-07:00

Any of you that actually know me, know that my dogs sleep on the bed with me, but if they had to sllep in their own bed it would definately have to be one of these! I think the "circus tent" like houses are so cute, but I do also love the pink juicy bed, too cute!

Preppy items for sale!

2010-08-15T16:09:00.000-07:00

I have been cleaning out my closet the past week and I was shocked at the things I have that still have the tags on and were never worn, oops! There are also a few things that have been worn once or twice, email me here: jencbrown@aol.com if you have questions or are interested in buying anything I take paypal and all major credit cards!!!

Thanks, Jen.

Emma James dress, eyelet. never worn, still has the tags size 6 $15

Shelly Segal dress, chocolate brown jersey fabric (never wrinkles), never worn, new with tags, size 6. $20

RL Long sleeve cotton shirt, worn once! Size: M $10

Black sequin dress, still has the tags on it! Size 6 $50

ECI New York silk tamk with hand beading new with tags size 8 $15

RL french blue sweatshirt size L but a very small large worn once $10

Hot pink RL polo with green rider size L slim fit new $20

RL long sleeve cotton shirt, blue, white, yellow stripe, RL logo. Size 6 worn once $20

LV Bag carried it a couple times in perfect condition! I bought it at the LV store in the king of prussia mall! $30

Burberry bag, carried once! $30

Longchamp bag came from saks paid over $200 carried a few times, in perfect condition. $60. Hot pink leather handle!

Interesting bathroom design

2010-08-05T11:19:00.000-07:00

I cam across these pictures of some amazing bathroom designs! I am usually very traditional when I pick a design that I love, but I thought the concept for these bathrooms were so different and fun to look at I had to share them. The bathtubs were what caught my eye first, but I also love the colors they used as well, very sleek and clean.

Enjoy, Jen.

Mad men decorated cookie!

2010-07-22T17:42:00.000-07:00

I think I might have just stumbled upon one of the cutest blog entries I have ever seen. Pink Martini's and Perals is offering the cutest giveaway, mad men inspired cookie cutters. You can sign up for the giveaway on her blog here:

http://pinkmartinisandpearls.blogspot.com/

check out these adorable pictures:

100th post whooo hoooooo!

2010-07-20T18:57:00.000-07:00

Wow, I can't believe I am up to 100 posts, how exciting! I would love to offer a fall swap if I could get enough people involved, if you express some interest I will try to set one up. For my 100th post I am posting some of my favorite blue and white rooms, enjoy! Thanks for following and reading I do appreciate it and I will keep the posts coming.

Jen.

Posh Palm Web Design

2010-07-17T10:34:00.000-07:00

I have finally got my new website design business up and running! I have to admit I spent more time on the illustrations than I did anything else, but I think they turned out cute, and very personal! Check it out here: http://poshpalmwebdesign.com/

Have a great weekend!

Busy, Busy, Busy................

2010-07-08T11:42:00.000-07:00

I have been swamped recently, not only am I working on building my new website design company, but I have suddenly been swamped with melamine plate orders, it must be summertime, no one wants to do the dishes! Ha!

I am almost at my 100th post mark, I have been thinking about a giveaway and I have finally decided on what to giveaway to my readers! There are a lot of exciting milestones coming up in my life can't wait to share them all with you. I just got the call to design a logo and website for a new bakery that is opening in New Jersey, I have been looking at delicious cakes and cupcakes all morning so I thought I would share some of the amazing pictures I came across!

Enjoy!

Jen.

I am in awe of this cake!!

4th of July tablescapes!

2010-06-30T13:46:00.000-07:00

The 4th of July is one of my favorite holidays, it is also my grandmothers birthday so we always have a big celebration every year, lots food, fun, family, and fireworks! Normally we have a large BBQ by the pool and have 2 or 3 tables set up with dinner and desserts, with that many tables and that many people it can only mean one thing, AMAZING TABLESCAPES!!!!!

I have posted a few pics of my favorites and hopefully they will give you inspiration for your holiday decorating!

I almost forgot..............HAPPY 86TH BIRTHDAY GRANDMA, I HOPE THERE ARE MANY MORE TO COME!

Jen.

Don't those parfait's look delightful?

New stamp design job!

2010-06-25T15:14:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to announce that I will be designing a collection of stamps for a custom stamp company! They manufacture rubber and acrylic stamps for the scrapbooking and craft industry, so I am very excited to start designing my collection for them. I will post pictures of the entire collection when I am finished sketching, themes go from Halloween to Holiday, Christmas to Spring/Summer, should be a lot of fun!

New facebook group!

2010-06-23T11:23:00.000-07:00

Hi, I just started a new group on facebook called re-ralph. It's a place where you can post all of your Ralph Lauren items that you don't want anymore for sale! I just started it yesterday, but I am sure it will be a big hit, I posted a fun hot pink polo with a green rider as the first item listed for sale! The link to "like" this page is below so spread the word.

Thanks, jennie.

http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Re-ralph/124080310966840?ref=ts

Fall Collections from Vogue

2010-06-18T12:59:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, it's summer why am I drooling over the Fall collections in Vogue this month? I just adore the photo spread in this month's issue featuring Ewan McGregor, not only is he devastatingly handsome, but the clothes are to die for. From the poufy hair to the tailored suits I can't get enough of these pictures. They are colorful yet dramatic and have all the makings of a main line couple's daily dramas. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did!

Have a fun and playful weekend.

Jen.

Photos courtsey of Vogue.com

New Portfolio web site

2010-06-11T12:11:00.000-07:00

After months of hard work I have finally finished my portfolio web site............for now. This was my first venture in hand coding HTML pages and it was a feat in the beginning, but became easier as the months went by and it is now a breeze! Wow I never thought I would say that about hand coding! :) I will begin learning flash animation in the fall and I am very excited to animate all the bees, clouds, birds, and flowers on my page, I think it will be a lot of fun and an amazing learning experience! I have provided the link to my portfolio below and always welcome comments.

Have a graet weekend!

Jen.
http://www.jbeedesignsportfolio.com/

Grace Kelly style icon

2010-06-08T22:52:00.000-07:00

Last week I wrote a post on the dresses of Audrey Hepburn, this week I got an email update from the Victoria and Albert Museum in London which read that most of Grace Kelly's costumes from movies and her life will be on display this summer. I am so excited to view this collection as she is definately one of my most favorite actresses of all time. Having lived in the suburbs of Philadelphia I have driven by her family home and researched her childhood growing up in Philly so this is just another historic viewing of her life and style. You can visit the museum website for more information about tickets and dates.

I have included pictures of a few of the gowns that will be on display!

Jen.

Probably one of my most favorite movies with Frank Sinatra.

Rear Window one of my favorites!

Pictures courtsey of the Victoria and Albery Museum

The Audrey Hepburn Collection

2010-06-03T12:50:00.000-07:00

I am a huge Audrey Hepburn fan, from the clothing to the hairstyles and her movies, I just can't get enough. She had such style and grace and was also a very kind and giving person. On that note, some of her amazing costumes are being featured in a traveling show, much like the Princess Diana collection that has been floating around from city to city. I think the show is closed now and most pieces are going to be auctioned off at Christies, but I have found pictures of the show and just knew my blog readers would enjoy seeing some of her amazing pieces.

Enjoy, Jen.

Summer is on it's way!!

2010-06-01T15:34:00.000-07:00

I feel like it is officially summertime, it seemed like memorial day weekend just flew by, it will be the 4th of July before we know it! I came across some of my favorite summer time photos, they make me want to have a poolside BBQ on the beach with family and friends. I also love decorating for summertime, it seems like i gravitate towards lighter, airy colors, things that remind me of the beach and the pool, enjoy!

I just adore this pink stripe with the black and white polka dot detail, so cute!

Perfect beach house!

Amazing outdoor space!

Carey Grant relaxing at his Santa Monica beach house in 1939