The Simply Sophisticated Events Blog

Back to Baking

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Mon, 02 Mar 2015 20:49:00 +0000

Well it has been a while since we've posted a new recipe, but unfortunately, an even longer time since I've been back in the kitchen trying something new. I find it difficult not to get stuck in that food preparation rut we all get caught in from time to time. The crazy work week routine of rushing in and trying to get dinner on the table, before the kids descend on you, squashes any sense of creativity you might have been feeling. But no more! I vow here and now to try and make a least one new "non-routine" dish or side a week so I can once more inject some life into my menu planning. Keep your fingers crossed for me - I'm going to need all the luck I can get to keep this resolution going!

I thought I would jumpstart my reaffirmed intentions with this recipe that I adapted from the "Joy of Cooking." I love serving this with any type of pasta dish, or as a substitute for plain garlic bread. My family's favourite is when I butter each slice and sprinkle some extra garlic powder on them. Pop the slices in the oven under broil for a minute or two and voila, dinner is served.

Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Bread

Ingredients:

3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup shredded zucchini
3/4 cup shredded old cheddar cheese (be as generous with the measurement as you see fit)
2 teaspoons dry dill
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
4 tablespoons of melted butter

Preparation:

1. Preheat oven to 350^o F and lightly grease 3 mini-loaf pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, salt, baking soda, and garlic powder.
3. Then add the zucchini, cheddar cheese, and dill. Mix the ingredients together until they are lightly coated by the dry ingredient mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter.
5. Gently mix in the wet ingredients to the flour-zucchini mixture until just moistened. You want the batter to look lumpy - not smooth and uniform.

6. Equally divide the batter amongst the three loaf pans and place them in the oven.

7. Bake for about 40 minutes. Everyone's oven is different so I always look to see if the edges have started to brown and of course, they must pass the toothpick test. Also good to note that they freeze very well, so I usually make a bunch ahead and then pull them out the night before to defrost.

Let me know how your cheese zucchini bread turns out - I hope it will become a family favourite.

Photography Sources: Simply Sophisticated

2015 Oscars: All About that Fashion

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Mon, 23 Feb 2015 22:31:00 +0000

I'm not going to pretend that I watch the Oscars for the movie nominations or to fill out the ballots and predict a winner. But I have no problem admitting that I tune into most awards shows for one thing, and one thing only: fashion. OK and maybe hair, makeup and the fabulous bling my favourite actresses get to wear. Once again, my girls Reese Witherspoon, Jennifer Aniston, Jennifer Lopez and Anna Kendrick really brought their A-game this year and chose silhouettes that flattered them in all of the right places.

I must say my favourite dress was the one Rosamund Pike wore. I mean come on! Red, bod-con, lace, and up-do, and strappy sandals. It doesn't get much more Oscar glam than that in my eyes.

Lastly, I thought really hard about this one and I think an Honourable Fashion Mention should go to Rita Ora. While I don't love the gold accents on her dress, I found the style of her dress was more Oscar worthy and formal than some of the other gowns we saw grace the red carpet. I mean, it was mermaid cut, and had a train. Need I say more?

Scroll down to see these totally fab gowns and the pretty little things that wore them and don't forget to tell us who your fashion hits and misses were, in the comments below.

*All images from US Weekly and ET.com

2015 Oscars Style Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 19:13:00 +0000

As you all know by now, we love awards season, more specially, the red carpet fashion. We can't wait to see what our favourite stars choose to wear and are thrilled when they hit it out of the park. Of course with the highs, also come lows, and as we have showcased over the last couple of weeks, some celebrities are in desperate need of a new stylist!

While we have never claimed to be able to do that job, when Weddington Way, an online boutique who specializes in bridesmaid dresses, offered to team up with us to create a Oscar inspired look we jumped at the opportunity.

The Challenge: Choose and create a winning look for one the 2015 Academy Awards' Best Actress Nominees, styled from the Weddington Way Bridesmaid Dress Collection.

Source: IMDB

While all the actresses in this category are stunning and extremely talented, we chose British actress Felicity Jones to style. A newbie to this category, we learnt that as of last week, she still hadn't decided on her dress for the Oscars - a sure sign that she is in need of our help. After doing a bit of research and taking a look at her previous red carpet looks, we decided upon a romantic, vintage feel for her. Drumroll please....

We chose this full length dual toned gown, with a stunning sequined lace bodice. The illusion v-neckline and open back are our favourite features. We thought we would keep the colour in a neutral palate to keep with her red carpet preference, but we wanted to keep it on the lighter side to compliment her gorgeous complexion. This dress is youthful, yet sophisticated and glamorous.

Since we didn't want to take away from the dress, we opted for a nude patent leather strappy sandal like these amazing Jimmy Choos. The delicate straps offer enough visual interest but won't distract from the detailing on her gown.

We paired a small satin and pearl clutch from Zara, perfectly sized to carry her evening's essentials. Again, nude in colour as not to distract from the dress, but embellished enough to add a little something extra to her outfit.

We turned to celebrity favourite, Fred Leighton, to provide Felicity with vintage pearl and diamond jewelry. As the detailing on the gown's bodice is sequined, we didn't want to add too much competing sparkle. The stunning pendant earrings and ring are the perfect icing on the cake.

Lastly, to complete her romantic vintage style, we love the idea of a softly curled side bun, similar to that worn by Sarah Hyland a couple of years ago. In regards to makeup, we've always been partial to the theory that less is more, so a smoky eye and neutral lip will definitely enhance Felicity's natural beauty while not overshadowing (pardon the pun) the whole look. Top it off with a classic French manicure and she is all set for, what promises to be, an evening she won't ever forget.

A big thank you to Weddington Way for presenting us with this opportunity. We hope you all liked our style choices and perhaps even offered you with a bit of inspiration for your own "red-carpet" worthy look.

2015 Grammy Awards - Fashion Rundown

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Mon, 09 Feb 2015 15:54:00 +0000

We just love awards season and the Grammy Awards always promise to deliver in terms of fashion. The red carpet is more relaxed and riskier than most of the other shows, so we can always expect some amazing highs and lows! The major trends we saw on the red carpet were pants (which for the most part were well done), semi-sheer dresses, and a lot of cleavage! I guess if you got it, flaunt it - but we are always partial to the idea that a little goes a long way.

We thought we would sum up our Top 3 Fashion Fav's and Fashion Lows of the 2015 Grammy's in one post this week. We would love to hear what you think - did your list match ours? Comment below or tweet us at @SimplySophBlog.

Top Three Fashion Favourites

Source: Glamour

Taylor Swift shone in her colourful Elie Saab gown. Love how she paired purple Giuseppe Zanotti heels with her dress - just the perfect pop of colour. Very youthful, very fun, very Taylor.

Source: Glamour

Although all everyone keeps talking about is Gwen Stefani's famous red lips, or lack thereof in this case, I love that she kept her hair and makeup toned down so that the emphasis was on her amazing Atelier Versace jumpsuit. The unique bodice provides the perfect amount of structure to balance the more relaxed pant style.

Source: Glamour

Beyoncé rounds out our Top Three Fashion Fav's in her Proenza Schouler long sleeved gown. It's the perfect amount of cleavage and sheerness, that keeps her look very glamorous yet very sexy. But really, should we expect anything less from her?

Top Three Fashion Low's

Source: Glamour

Rihanna was one of the very last to walk the red carpet, and I hate to say it but it wasn't worth the wait. Her pink powder puff looking Giambattista Valli dress was a risk not worth taking in my mind.

Source: Glamour

So let's just come out and say it - Kanye West had a hand in picking Kim Kardashian's Jean Paul Gaultier dress. Whether he encouraged her, or picked it out himself, Kim needs to take back control of her wardrobe. It looks like she bedazzled her bathrobe and just threw it on. And yes, she has fantastic cleavage, but haven't we all seen it a million times before?

Source: BuzzFeed

Jenny Lewis, please pay close attention. This is a pant suit done horribly wrong. For style pointers, please refer to Anna Kendrick (who totally rocked her tuxedo style pant suit!) Enough said.

Winter Weddings Inspiration

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Tue, 03 Feb 2015 18:51:00 +0000

Source: Pinterest

Still searching for some winter-inspired wedding ideas for your upcoming nuptials? We have got you covered - take a look at some of the most popular winter wedding posts we have shared over the years.

Ideas to help you create your own unique winter wonderland
Colour Palette Inspiration: Cool Blues and Warm Browns
Winter Wedding Colour Themes
A winter inspired Dessert Table
Hand-knit Ring Pillows
Inspired: A Sparkling Snow Kissed Wedding

Source: Ruffled

Want your winter wedding featured on our blog? Contact us about a Real Wedding Submission.

Fashion "Faves" at the 2015 SAG Awards

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Thu, 29 Jan 2015 02:08:00 +0000

I don't know about you, but I found this year's SAG awards red carpet fashion was the pits. Usually I have a hard time narrowing down my top three best dressed/favourite dress picks but this year, it took me over an hour to find red carpet looks I liked. In the end all my picks left me feeling more lukewarm rather than red hot!

Here are my top three picks for best dressed at this year's SAG awards, in particular order...

Did you have a favourite red carpet look this year?

Maria Menounos

Jennifer Aniston

Julie Bowen

*Sources: Huffington Post, US Magazine

Fashion Faux-Pas at the 2015 SAG Awards

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Mon, 26 Jan 2015 17:10:00 +0000

We thought we would switch it up for the 2015 SAG Awards, and present our top three choices for Worst Dressed first. Unfortunately, for these "lucky" nominees, it wasn't too hard to make our choices this awards show. From horrendous colour choices to ill-fitting silhouettes, these dresses did nothing for the talented actresses who wore them.

If only I had the opportunity to just once ask a select few actresses - did you really take a good look at yourself in the mirror before stepping out onto that red carpet? Because I bet if you had stopped listening to your "stylist" for 5 minutes and actually listened to your gut, you would have chosen a much better outfit.

Thankfully, as fashion taste is quite subjective, there will always be worst and best-dressed lists. I just wish that sometimes people would focus less on the label and more on how the dress actually makes them look and feel. (Okay rant over!)

We would love to hear your feedback on this - who are your choices for Worst Dressed from the SAG Awards?

Source: E Online

Rosamund Pike is gorgeous, but her dress looks like it is swallowing her whole! She might be wearing Dior Couture, but to me, it looks like she might have just cut a hole in a tent and called it a day. I completely understand wanting to "disguise" some body areas post-baby, but there are much better ways of doing it.

Source: E Online

At least Anna Chlumsky attempted to wear some colour to the SAG Awards this year, but unfortunately for her, her attempt failed. The weird horseshoe detailing on her custom Escada gown was quite distracting and I couldn't decide if she was going for an equestrian vibe or leaning towards a more medieval flair.

Source: E Online

Lorelei Linklater's Honor gown - well let's just say, it has us speechless. Need we say more?

Our List of Pinworthy Weekend Finds

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Sun, 18 Jan 2015 19:07:00 +0000

It's a quiet afternoon at Casa Del Jen and I really don't think there's a any better way to spend a quiet Sunday afternoon ~~ignoring the giant pile of laundry~~ than on Pinterest! Here's a laundry list of things we've been drooling over on Pinterest lately . . . we hope they brighten up your dreary and rainy Sunday!

…lazy dazy Sunday's make us think about the relationships we're blessed to have

Source

…this dreamy white kitchen with fabulous island

Source

…these blush and gold letterpress wedding invitations

Source

…the prettiest blue and white lace printed dress

Source

What are some of your best Pinterest finds this weekend?

2015 Golden Globe Fashion Blunders

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Wed, 14 Jan 2015 01:57:00 +0000

It's pretty rare that I hate a red carpet look but at this year's 2015 Golden Globe awards, I found myself cringing at more than a handful of red carpet arrivals. I thought long and hard about this, and I think I've pin pointed the problem for 2015: I'm just sick and tired of boobs popping out all over the place. Don't get me wrong, I love a good sexy cleave every so often. But this year, none of it seemed very classy or tasteful.

JLo and Kate Hudson are my girls, I have major girl crushes on them. But their cleavage was just too much for me this year . . . and not in a good way! I have to say, I loved JLo's hair and makeup and while her dress was too plungy (do I really need to get a glimpse of her belly button?) I did love how flowy it was. And sure Kate Hudson looks amazing in her dress, I mean look at that figure! But I just wasn't a fan of the plunging v-neck/side boob thing happening over there.

And don't even get me started about Keira Knightley. I know she's pregnant. But really Keira? Did you learn nothing from the Kim Kardashian maternity fashion fiasco? Floral tablecloths have no place on anyone's baby bump, no matter how cute your stylist told you it was. News Flash: She's lying. Just say no to tablecloth inspired fashion.

So tell us, who was your least favourite red carpet fashion look from Sunday's awards?

Don't forget to link up your fashion posts in the comments below.

Jennifer Lopez
Source: Just Jared

Kate Hudson
Source: Go Fug Yourself

Keira Knightley
Source: US Weekly

2015 Golden Globes: Best Dressed Top Three

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Mon, 12 Jan 2015 16:03:00 +0000

The 2015 Golden Globes took place last night, and let's face it, we really just tuned in to see what the stars were wearing. On the whole I would have to say that Hollywood played it safe last night, but we were happy to see that most of our favourite celebs shone brilliantly on the red carpet.

We decided to break down our choices for best dressed into three categories...drum roll please:

Sophisticated Sexy

Source: MTV.com

Reese Witherspoon gets our vote every time. She looks gorgeous in this shimmering Calvin Klein dress, which she paired perfectly with $1.5 million in Tiffany & Co. diamond jewelry.

Boldly Beautiful

Source: MTV.com

I'm in love with Anna Kendrick's Monique Lhuillier gown. Picture perfect, it showcases her classic beauty and reminds us why she made the perfect Cinderella in Into the Woods.

Fun & Flirty

Source: MTV.com

Although it was a close tie with Dakota Johnson, Emma Stone's rhinestone-embellished Lanvin jumpsuit stole the spotlight. Right on trend, Emma looks flawless in what is probably the most comfortable outfit of the evening.

Check back tomorrow when we unveil our choices for the 2015 Golden Globes' Worst Dressed.

{5 Days of Free Christmas Printables} Day Four - Printable Wrapping Paper

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Fri, 19 Dec 2014 01:49:00 +0000

We're on day 4 of our holly, jolly 5 Days of Free Christmas Printables and today, we're highlighting some pretty amazing DIY printable Christmas wrapping paper.

Check out these designs, they're so cute, don't ya think?

Source: Clementine Creative

Source: The Ellie Blog

Source: The Lovely Drawer

Source: Mister Printables

Source: Craftaholics Anonymous

{5 Days of Free Christmas Printables} Day Three - Gift Tags Galore

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Fri, 19 Dec 2014 01:23:00 +0000

Today's roundup of free Christmas printables are all about DIY gift tags! I'm never organized enough to print gift tags in advance - and almost always get stuck using ones from the Dollar store (boooo) but this year, maybe I'll treat a few pressies with some DIY love. Now if only I could make up my mind which one's I want to use . . .

Do you print your own Christmas present gift tags?

Source: Creative Index Blog

Source: Three Little Monkey's Studio

Source: We Lived Happily Ever After

Source: Lia Griffith

{5 Days of Free Christmas Printables} Day Two: All About Chalkboard Prints

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Tue, 16 Dec 2014 12:00:00 +0000

Today's fabulous roundup of free printables needs no explanation. After-all, who doesn't love a Chalkboard printable . . . especially Christmas themed ones?? Right. I didn't think you'd argue with us. Here a few Christmas chalkboard printables we're currently coveting (and most likely printing while you read this).

It's not too late to create your own photo Christmas card. Check these out from Becoming Martha, they're free and can be customized too!

Before you go to Dollarama to stock up on Christmas gift tags, consider these FREE ones from The Elli Blog.

Printable Chalkboard Gift Tags

The Cottage Market, Chalkboard Printables

These printable candy bar wrappers (done in chalkboard art of course) would be perfect in a Christmas stocking, or, to leave for Santa!

Merry Christmas Candy Bar Wrappers

Some other great finds:

{5 Days of Free Christmas Printables} Day One - Photo Booth DIY

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Tue, 16 Dec 2014 01:13:00 +0000

Think outside the box at this year's family Christmas feast. While every one is patiently waiting for the turkey to cook, have a photo booth set up with some fun props to help your guests pass the time.

Unoriginal Mom has some really cute printable props...and yes...they're free too!

Check it out here.

*All images courtesy of Unoriginal Mom

All Decked Out for the Holidays

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Fri, 05 Dec 2014 19:45:00 +0000

Between holiday parties, Christmas gatherings, and New Year's Eve celebrations, there are plenty of excuses to get all decked out this holiday season. This is the perfect opportunity for you to try something a little more creative and glamorous.

I'm all about gold-toned sequins and shimmer this year, and wanted to share some of my favourite looks with you. Hopefully they will inspire you and help solve the never-ending "what should I wear" dilemma.

Skinnies & Sparkles

Holiday Look - Sleek & Chic

Add Some Glamour

Holiday Look - Sophisticated Sequins

Taking Tulle to a Whole New Level

Holiday Look - Romantic Elegance

I'm all about pairing high - low pieces together, especially for "one-time" outfits. For example, why not pair a blazer from Banana Republic with a tank from TopShop, a skirt from ASOS with accessories from Forever 21, and finish off with a pair of Nine West shoes. This way you can invest in more classic pieces that you can keep in your closet for years and spend less on more trendy seasonal items.

Don't forget to check out our Pinterest Page for more holiday fashion inspiration.

Cheers!

Baking Up a Storm - Chocolate Zucchini Bread

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Mon, 01 Dec 2014 19:57:00 +0000

As a part of my mission to get my kids to eat more vegetables, I thought it would be a super stealthy idea to incorporate them into my baking. What child could resist chocolate cake (insert dash of zucchini) I thought? Well my daughter can.

True to form, my son devoured his slice and wanted more. My daughter on the other hand, took a couple of nibbles and then told me that she didn't want her cake anymore. I have heard many stories about picky eaters...but I am in disbelief that she could taste the "zucchini difference."

Anyways, the recipe was a success with the rest of the family and our friends' four children so I'm not going to let my picky eater stop me from passing this along. Best of luck with your own super stealthy baking mission!

Chocolate Zucchini Bread
(adapted from Make and Takes)

Ingredients:

3 large eggs
1 cup sesame seed oil
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups finely grated zucchini
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 teaspoon salt
2 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups mini chocolate chips

Finely Grated Zucchini

Preparation:

Preheat oven to 350^o F.
Grease 2 9x5 loaf pans.
Wash your zucchini and cut off the ends (you will need around 2 zucchini). For the zucchini to dissolve into the chocolate bread, use a fine grater.
In a large bowl, whisk together the 3 eggs, sesame seed oil, brown sugar and vanilla until thoroughly mixed.
Stir in the grated zucchini.
Mix in the cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Fold in the flour and cocoa powder in 3 batches, mixing well until the batter is uniform.
Last (and most important!) ingredient - stir in the chocolate chips.
Divide the batter evenly between the two loaf pans and bake for 50-60 minutes. Don't forget to use the toothpick test.

Let the loaves cool for 10-15 minutes before removing them from the pans. Enjoy!

Photography Sources: Simply Sophisticated

Weekend Links: DIY, Treats, Home Decor and Holiday Sass

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Fri, 28 Nov 2014 19:52:00 +0000

With the Canadian (and American) Thanksgivings behind us, we're so happy we can finally embrace all things Christmas (without having any rotten tomatoes or leftover turkey thrown at us!). And while we know should probably check ourselves into a Pinterest Obsessed Anonymous group pronto, we couldn't resist sharing these amazing finds for this weekends edition of Weekend Links.

Here are 7 of our most favourite holiday finds on Pinterest this week.

14 of the Best Holiday Cookie Recipes

Wrapped in Style (via Sarah Richardson)

Rosemary Sprig Place Card Setting

DIY Christmas Stove-top Potpouri

Coffee Table Set Up by Fancy Shack

Starbucks Copycat Caramel Brulee Latte

Holiday Sass: Dress from ASOS

American Music Awards 2014 Red Carpet Rundown

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 18:02:00 +0000

It was another night of amazing red carpet fashion at the American Music Awards last night. We've noticed a couple of recurring trends: body-con silhouettes, high slits, colour-blocking, and bold colours. It will be interesting to see which trends last and which ones burnt out quickly.

My votes for best dressed from the 2014 AMAs are Fergie, Jennifer Lopez, Kate Beckinsale, and Julianne Hough. These women just exude confidence and sexiness in a classy way. They also help teach us some great lessons. 1) Basic does not equal boring. 2) You can show some skin without it looking trashy. 3) Beauty shines through at any age.

Unfortunately, I felt that there were too many risk takers (although this is to be somewhat expected with this group of artists) or those that fell into the "what were they thinking?!?!" crowd. Among my picks are Elizabeth Banks, Heidi Klum (I know, I know...sorry), Rita Ora, and Gigi Hadid. I'll let you be the judge of which artist falls into which category...

Fergie

Jennifer Lopez

Kate Beckinsale

Julianne Hough

Elizabeth Banks

Heidi Klum

Rita Ora

Gigi Hadid

Image Source: PopSugar

Fall to Winter: Getting More Mileage from Your Wardrobe

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 14:46:00 +0000

Although the calendar hasn't officially marked the beginning of winter, the snow outside and sub-zero temperatures tell a different story. Thankfully, this doesn't mean the end of the season for some of my favourite wardrobe staples.

I love the new shirt dress that I picked up this year and I couldn't bear to think of putting it away for the next 8-10 months - so here is an easy way of extending its life by transitioning it to Winter wear with a couple of easy additions I already had in my closet.

Fall/Winter Transition by simplysophisticatedblog featuring a shirt-dress

Don't forget to check out our Pinterest page for more fashion inspiration.

2014 CMA Red Carpet Fashion: Classy, Flashy or What Were They Thinking?

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Wed, 12 Nov 2014 14:13:00 +0000

We've been craving some celebrity red carpet fashion so I was pretty stoked last week when I realized the CMA's were on. I loved this year's fashion line up, there were some classic pieces, some risk takers, and only a handful of "what were they thinking," takers.

My fave's were Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, Lucy Hale and Jennifer Nettles (love love love pockets in a dress).

Then came the handful of risk takers (not always a good thing) and the "what were they thinking crowd." I'm not going to tell you what category Nicole Kidman, Meaghan Trainor (is she really a Country music artist?), Kacey Musgraves (eeeeek that hair!) or Lilly Aldridge are in. You can guess in the comments below.

Can't wait to see what ya'll think (yup, that's Jen going a little bit country today).

Carrie Underwood

Miranda Lambert

Lucy Hale

Jennifer Nettles

Nicole Kidman

Meaghan Trainor

Kacey Musgraves

Lilly Aldridge

Sources: Getty Images, Huffington Post

Weekend Links: Fitness, Fashion, DIY Ideas, Weddings and a New Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Sun, 09 Nov 2014 02:28:00 +0000

It's one of our favourite times of the week . . . yes the weekend . . . but more importantly it's the Weekend Links post and we can't wait to share what we're crushing on right now.

This week, we can't get over:

This 20 Minute Mom Workout from The Lean Green Bean. Not a mom? No worries, we really think this workout is for anyone who lives a busy lifestyle - that's why we love it. 20 minutes....how hard can it be? Check it out here.

This outfit from the post Dressing for Your Dream Job courtesy of Apartment 34. Forget the dream job part, we just can't get over this beautiful trench and cable knit sweater. We're putting this in our wear to work, to shop, to walk the dog, hell, we'd even wear it to vacuum, and Jen hates vacuuming!

For all you lucky, soon-to-be brides out there, check out Lauren Conrad's Wedding Weekend Essentials list. Not sure about boxed water? Neither are we, but if it's good enough for LC, it's good enough for us!

Every girl can use a little TLC, especially in the form of a closet challenge. We'll just add this one to our to-do list for the new year. Click here to take the Closet TLC Challenge from I'm an Organizing Junkie.

This DIY stir stick flower box from the Wedding Chicks is so cute and can be made for any occasion - even just as an everyday center piece on the kitchen counter perhaps? Anyone want to try it out and report back to us?

Falling in Love with 2015 Bridal Fashion

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Fri, 07 Nov 2014 18:14:00 +0000

My brother and soon-to-be sister-in-law are thinking of tying the knot in 2015. Lucky girl - have you seen the amazing wedding dresses she'll be able to choose from? So I've taken it upon myself to do a little bit of window shopping before she starts dress shopping - to help her out of course. I just can't help myself...bridal fashion puts a spring in my step and a sparkle in my eye.

One thing I have noticed while soaking in the latest bridal fashion trends, is that brides have so many different options to choose from. Whether they have their heart set on intricate beading and custom embroidery on a ball gown or stunning lace detailing on a flowing bohemian gown - there is something for everyone. Here are some of my favourites. (drum roll please)

Designer: Alessandra Rinaudo

Designer: Pronovias

Designer: Reem Acra

Designer: Ersa Atelier

Designer: David Tutera

Designer: Rosa Clara

Designer: Watters

Designer: Inbal Dror

Designer: Sophia Tolli

Designer: Maggie Sottero

Celebrating All Hallows' Eve

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 12:04:00 +0000

Source

We want to wish everyone a very

fun and safe Halloween!

Freshly Baked

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Wed, 29 Oct 2014 15:25:00 +0000

Source: Simply Sophisticated

After having gone apple picking this Fall, I realized that we were definitely not going to eat our way through the haul we brought back. What's a girl to do? Why make apple crisp of course! This is definitely one of my favourite desserts and it never hurts to have one ready in the freezer for a last minute needed treat.

I have tried several different recipes over the years but I think I have finally made enough modifications to call this one my own. Now don't panic, you don't have to be a pastry chef to make this yummy dessert. Most of the time I cheat a little by using pre-made pie crusts but please feel free to use your own pastry recipe if you're so inclined.

Ingredients:

4-5 gala apples
9" regular pie shell
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup quick-cooking oats
1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Preparation:

Heat oven to 375^o F. Place your pie shell in a pie dish of your choice.
Throw your brown sugar, flour, oats, butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg into a big bowl. Use a pastry blender (or a fork in a pinch) to chop the mixture into crumble pieces.
Gently stir the crumble mixture to ensure that all the ingredients are mixed. Be sure not to use an electric blender or over-stir in order to maintain your crumble consistency.
Cut up apples into chucky wedge slices and spread half of them into your pie dish. Sprinkle some cinnamon all over the apples. Then add some of your crumble mixture on top of the first layer of apples.
Place the remaining apples into the pie dish to make your second layer. Sprinkle some more cinnamon, followed by the remaining crumble mixture all over the top layer of apples.
Pop it into the oven for about 40 - 45 minutes. The topping should be golden brown and the apples tender when pierced with a fork.

Source: Simply Sophisticated

My favourite way to serve apple crisp is warm from the oven with vanilla ice cream. Yum! I had better go and get a slice before my husband eats it all up on me.

Halloween Party Planning

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Sophisticated Events) — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 17:43:00 +0000

This past weekend, the family and I went out to a local farm for our annual hay ride and pumpkin patch adventure. This annual tradition is something I look forward to and really helps me to get into the Halloween spirit. As I explained in my last post, I tend to decorate for Halloween in a more sophisticated and rustic-chic manner, so I just had to pass along this inspiring vignette by Live Laugh Rowe.

Source: Live Laugh Rowe

Everything above is either vintage or DIY - I love how she incorporated different textures into the vignette. This would look fabulous on a front porch or in a front hallway, especially if you are throwing a Halloween party.

Looking for additional ideas? Check out another one of our posts featuring classic black & white Halloween décor.

Source: Urban Comfort

Last, but not least, we've put together a "cheat sheet" for those of you planning a Halloween party. Check out our five basic steps for party planning success.

For more inspiration, check out our "Holidays" board on Pinterest.