Wrightfully Social

Cooking up Change for the Holidays

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 17:15:00 +0000

I thought I would return to share this awesome recipe that I tried for Thanksgiving. Earlier this year, my organization, Healthy Schools Campaign hosted Cooking up Change, a healthy cooking contest that challenges high school student chefs to create healthy school meals!

I was fortunate to attend the final competition in Washington D.C. where I witnessed the talent of student chefs from across the country! One of the dishes stood out, the Jacksonville team created these amazing sweet potato muffins.

Several people in my family have health issues, so I wanted to make sure my contribution to the table had a healthy twist. That said, I was so excited to try this recipe for the holidays, but I had no idea that it would be such a hit!

I followed the recipe that was shared on our HSC blog to the letter and had no major issues outside of a cramp in my hand from mashing the sweet potatoes. I tried to puree them in a blender, but it took forever! I doubled the recipe and it still made more than enough, 40 muffins to be exact!

The best part was adding the mixture, I loved the smell of brown sugar, nutmeg, and potatoes...it's a smell fit for a kitchen in the Fall and Winter months!

I added maple syrup on some, but most of my family was fine eating the muffins plain! I'd also recommend whip cream as a topping.

It was so great to see these puppies come out well. When we shared the recipe in our newsletter, so many people were interested in trying it. If you did, let me know how you liked it! I was also proud to see how our youth are speaking up for healthy food and eating habits. Earlier this summer, the Cooking up Change Jacksonville team met First Lady Michelle Obama, who commended their efforts to promote healthy eating!

Lessons Learned:

None! It came out perfect!
The only observations is that my muffins were a little sunken in because our oven doesn't properly heat, thankfully it didn't matter.
Be considerate of guests. As I said earlier, several guests have health issues so they could only eat the plain muffin. As an alternative, provide low-fat whipped cream or maple syrup with no sugar added.

Wordless Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 18:53:00 +0000

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Honey-Do (get better) List

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 03:40:00 +0000

I have been sick with a cold for almost two weeks:-( I finally got enough energy to go to the doctor, where they ran a battery of tests, only to find out that I have some sort of virus! The doctor's remedy: honey to soothe my sore throat and cough. I love honey and started thinking about some recipes that incorporate honey from some of my favorite blogs. Check them out!

Honey Butter from Our Best Bites

Honey Lemon Oil Muffins with Lemon Glaze from Pinch My Salt

Spicy Honey Chicken from Our Best Bites

Think that an apple a day will keep the doctor away? Well here's some apple recipes you might like.

Apple Pancakes from Smitten Kitchen

Apple-filled Cookies from Technicolor Kitchen

Candy Apple Cake Pops from Bakerella

What are some of your favorite recipes that incorporate apples and honey?

Wordless Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 22:54:00 +0000

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Chocolate Cupcakes with a Cherry on Top!

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 02:44:00 +0000

Last night, I was CRAVING something sweet, but since I gave up ice cream for Lent it feels more like withdrawal! So I scrambled and pulled out a bunch of stuff out of my cabinets to find that I have an abundance of flour, chocolate, and cherries!

I used Hersey's recipe for Perfectly Chocolate Cake because it's absolutely delish! The cupcakes are super moist and the cherry on top just adds to these indulgent cupcakes.

The recipe yields about 30 cupcakes, but (as you can see) I was a little heavy-handed. I only got 29, had I been thoughtful about divvying up the mix, probably could have gotten 35-40.

I cheated by using Duncan Hines cake frosting since I didn't have any powdered sugar.

I made it work though. This frosting suffices and it was available. It's a bit thicker than I like, I'd suggest making your own. Plus, the frosting soaks in some of the cherry juice:-)

Lessons Learned:

My mix was slightly watery, so I was scared that my cupcakes wouldn't come out well. However, chocolate is interesting, it behaves differently. Not only did they come out great, they came out moist and fluffy
You don't need the full 1/2 cup of vegetable oil

Pretty Little Party

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 23:35:00 +0000

We all have our guilty pleasures, mine include leopard print, ice cream, quesadillas, and ABC Family's Pretty Little Liars. I've been in bed all day watching the PLL marathon that leads up to the season finale at 7pm. I got inspired by their different personalities, try these tips for a fun watch party, girls' night in, or a LBD friendly gathering.

Photo Credit: Pretty Little Liars

Let's get to know the girls first. The characters might sound a lot of your guest list. Then check out some Liar inspired party suggestions.

Emily: athletic, military brat. Have premium water on tap, stock your bar with premium elixirs such as Voss, Fiji. Pellegrino, and various Izze flavors.

Spencer: preppy, A-typical (I relate most to her). Stack books and apples around to serve as decorations. These shouldn't be hard to find around the house so you can devote more time and money to food! On the show, she takes pride in her achievements, you can buy trophies to hand out to "Future Trophy Wives" friends or as a take-away for coming out.

Hanna: popular, rich. Add some serious "ice" to drinks by using gem-shaped ice trays. You can also add rhinestones to bling out table settings. Hanna also talks about her past "indulgences" on the show, provide sweets and delectable comfort foods.

Aria: rocker-chic, creative. Adds accents of blue as an homage to our brooding beauty's Gothic locks. You can offset with black lace as table runners, garland, or ribbon.

Allison and the mysterious A: Illusive and scary. Serving libations? Try adding dirty martinis or a bloody Marys to add PLL flair. With the queen bee missing in action, try placing tiaras on guests of honor. Make your party a hit by creating a scavenger hunt or trivia based game in which guest must figure out characters or find out who A is.

Here's a PLL inspired playlist:

Beyonce - "Beautiful Liar"

Ray Orbison "Pretty Woman"

Estelle "Pretty Please"

Bittersweet "Dirty Laundry"

Mr. Hudson "White Lies"

Keri Hilson "Pretty Girl Rock"

Lady Gaga "Beautiful Dirty Rich"

So who else is watching the Pretty Little Liars finale tonight?

Photo Credits: Pretty Little Liars

Not So Wordless Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 06:01:00 +0000

When I need a mental vacay, I think about how the sand felt between my toes as the ocean rushed over my ankles.

Happy Hump Day!

Puppy Love...A Grrrl's Best's Friend

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 04:00:00 +0000

I know you're probably thinking, "where have you been for the past six month?" Well:

I completed my master's degree, officially have a Master's of Sciences in Integrated Marketing Communications from Roosevelt University:-)
Went to Hawaii as a graduation/birthday/Christmas present...best trip EVER
Slowly adapted to a single lifestyle. I even considered chronicling my efforts in a book...
Haven't been in the kitchen as much as I wanted. Found out that my oven doesn't work, tried to replicate my infamous piña colada cupcakes to no avail. I eventually baked them over a friend's house and they came out perfect.
My best friend, Lucky, a German/Belgian Shepard mix of 13 years passed. Don't think I'll ever have another pet like him.

Couple of days ago, I wondered into a pet store to waste some time and play with puppies. I played with a Siberian Husky that was too cute for words. It wasn't five minutes before he tried to eat my purse, shoes, and scarf (which caused me to choke). The nerve, an outfit is all about the accessories! Needless to say, we handed that him back pretty quickly.

Photo Credit: Say Anything

Then I came across an adorable Boston Terrier (like the one pictured above) that melted my heart. I knew at that moment, I had to bring her home. I'm praying on becoming a pooch parent in the next couple of weeks. Her name? An homage to one of my favorite movies, Everything is Illuminated, Sammy Davis Junior Jr., the Seeing Eye B!tch.

I think one of the best ways to welcome any new family member into your home is with tons of positive energy. What better way than a dog themed welcoming party.

Registry

Just like any housewarming or baby shower, consider registry for your new addition. Put affordable things on your list like "doodie" bags, leashes, bowls, and toys. I've been eyeing a leopard print doggy bed myself...

Puppy Chow

Whether you have a sassy dog or a loyal pup, guests will adore "pupcakes" with these cute cupcake toppers from Meri Meri. Also consider baking cookies using a doggie bone-shaped cookie cutter (you can get these just about anywhere). As a precaution, I'd avoid having chocolate anywhere on the menu, just in case your dog gets too frisky or a guest drops food. Wouldn't want a dog getting into that!

Make it a Puppy Play Date

If you don't mind ~~puppy-proofing~~ opening your home to other dogs, have activities to help socialize your new friend. If you're hosting other puppies, set up a play pen with chew toys. This will also provide plenty of adorable photo ops!

Really In the Dog-House

Creates signage with paw prints.

In the bathroom, hang a sign that reads "wipe your paws"
Create banners that read "woof," "bark," "paw-rty time!"
Label food platters fruit and veggie "Bites"

Give a Dog a Bone

Want a creative way to give back? Put a "Pup Philanthropy" sign on a jar. Ask guest to make a small donation to benefit a local shelter.

Red Velvet Cupcakes

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 07:19:00 +0000

I brag about my sweet tooth all the time, but I rarely get a chance to tout my stove top victories. Yesterday, I baked Pinch My Salt's red velvet cupcake recipe for ~~my loved ones~~ OK, for myself. These suckers were moist with the right amount of cocoa. I added more powdered sugar, vanilla extract and food coloring where I saw fit. Surprisingly, wasn't as messy as I thought. I tried to prep prior to baking (that's a stretch for me)!

I have yet to meet one person that doesn't like red velvet, but its great for birthdays and Valentine's Day.

Read on for the recipe for the cupcakes and frosting:

Red Velvet Cupcakes

2 1/2 cups sifted cake flour*
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
2 oz. red food coloring (two bottles)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1 teaspoon baking soda

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line two 12-cup muffin tins with cupcake papers.

2. Sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt into a medium bowl; set aside. In a small bowl, mix food coloring and cocoa powder to form a thin paste without lumps; set aside.

3. In a large bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about three minutes. Beat in eggs, one at a time, then beat in vanilla and the red cocoa paste (I added an additional 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract and food coloring), scraping down the bowl with a spatula as you go. Add one third of the flour mixture to the butter mixture, beat well, then beat in half of the buttermilk. Beat in another third of flour mixture, then second half of buttermilk. End with the last third of the flour mixture, beat until well combined, making sure to scrape down the bowl with a spatula.

4. In a small bowl, mix vinegar and baking soda. Yes, it will fizz (that was kinda cool)! Add vinegar mixture to the cake batter and stir well to combine. Using an ice cream scoop, fill cupcake cups with cake batter - they should be 2/3 – 3/4 full - (You may not fill all the cups, I ended up with 21 cupcakes). Place muffin tins on the middle rack of a preheated 350 degree oven. Bake for approximately 20-22 minutes (mine took a little longer, about 25 minutes), rotating pans halfway through. Cupcakes are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Check early and (and often so you) don’t overbake!

5. Cool the cupcakes in their tins on a wire rack for 10 minutes then remove and allow to cool completely before frosting. Frost cupcakes with cream cheese icing (recipe below)

Cream Cheese Frosting

16 oz. cream cheese (2 packages), softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter (one stick), softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
pinch of salt

With an electric mixer, blend together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Turn mixer to low speed and blend in powdered sugar (I added an additional 1/2 cup), salt and vanilla extract. Turn mixer on high and beat until light and fluffy. Use immediately or refrigerate, covered, until ready to use. If refrigerated, the frosting will need to be brought to room temperature before using (after frosting softens up, beat with mixer until smooth).

Lesson learned:

I took Pinch My Salt author, Nicole's suggestion and used a ice cream scoop to evenly distribute batter into the cupcake tin
Tablespoon=tbsp, teaspoon=tsp. Mishap averted, almost added a tablespoon of salt and vinegar, which could have been bad

Get Wiggy With It!

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Sat, 31 Jul 2010 02:32:00 +0000

Yea... I know that was a complete cheesy post title, but that's how I roll :-D ::combing bangs over my forehead to hide the big "DORK" stamp:: Anyways, I was watching the ever-quirky Wendy "How You Doin?!" Williams Show and she was talking about throwing parties for weaves and wigs and that got me thinking about how fun that could be!

This is a fun theme for an over-the-top birthday or bachelorette party. I'm one for dramatics, I think it would be cool to debut a new haircut!

Photo Credit: Party City

Ask guests to come wearing a fun wig, I'd recommend Party City or your local party store for a colorful assortment as well.

I am always a fan of rainbow color cake, but you can also do cupcakes with a variety of colors. I featured Omnomicon's recipe, its delish!

Photo Credit: Glamour

Go all out with decorations. Get door fringe for entryways, use brightly colored plates, napkins and table cloths, and colorful shot glasses.

I have found that people smile at the corniest details. This is a theme that can be fun and allow you to really use your imagination.

Wrightfully Certified Bakery & Themed Baby Shower

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Sat, 31 Jul 2010 01:34:00 +0000

I am blogging about cake for selfish reason, 1) because I have a hankering for some and 2) I wanted to share my BFF's baby shower cake! When I designed it, I never thought it would come to fruition, let alone taste so yummy if constructed so beautifully.

Then I remembered Pierre's Bakery, where I tasted an infamous Atomic Cake (loaded with fruit) years earlier, and stopped in to their south Chicago location to see if a structured cake was even possible. Yes, it is! In fact, the baker was so enthusiastic to make this cake, that he added working spotlights! The cake was a deliciously moist red velvet that proved to be as delectable as it was a work of art.

For that, I have to declare this family-owned bakery WRIGHTFULLY CERTIFIED! For more information on this bakery and their four Chicagoland locations, click here.

With the right presentation; food can make a great, memorable centerpiece. For my bestie's shower, we hosted a "Star is Born" theme. Here are some ideas to introduce your "star-in-the-making":

Decorations

Aside from the work-of-art cake, our decorations came from Party City. Mostly wall decorations, gold and black balloons, and scene setters. Of course, no Hollywoodesque party would be complete without a red carpet arrival!

Entertainment

We were lucky enough to have our own shining store. However, we also included some revamped baby shower games. To continue the star-studded theme, we played black Hollywood trivia, sang "Baby" karaoke, and of course trivia about the mom and dad.

Danny, our very own diva

Wrightfully Social is Down...

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 18:40:00 +0000

Hi all,

I am trying to do this whole HTML configuration/web design stuff all by my lonesome. So naturally, there's gonna be some glitches. The site is down as I'm trying to switch it to the blog format. Anyways. I'll give you all the heads up when I'm up and running. Thanks for your continued support and patience!

Birds of a Feather Know How to Party!

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 10:39:00 +0000

Photo Credit: Wikimedia

Peacock feathers can add a bold, elegant statement to any party. In different cultures, peacocks are revered and represent luck, beauty, fortune and courtship, which makes the incorporation of their feathers perfect for just about every celebration!

For your color scheme, use rich purples and blues contrasted by bright greens, teals and/or turquoise. Purchase plumes of peacock feathers to add to floral centerpieces and/or place settings. You can even add to fans, to keep guests cool during summer shindigs.

When I saw this feathery wreath in Michaels, I just could not contain myself! So pretty and bold! you can even lay flat for a funky table setting or centerpiece!

Pom Love, an Etsy vendor, offers gorgeously colored tissue paper pompoms. The pictured pompoms are great for a peacock themed celebration such as The Inspired Bride's suggested color palette.

Tissue pompoms are relatively easy to make with tissue paper, wire, string and patience. They provide a great whimsical and fun look to party decor.

Another Etsy vendor, Local Colorist, offers beautifully crafted origami cranes on peacock patterned paper. These can also serve as cool place settings or interesting hanging decorations.

If you're hosting an intmate affair at home, use these cool coasters from World Market to protect your counters and tables from inevitable spillage and staining.

I came across another Etsy gem, Timeless Paper, that created these beautiful perforated peacock placecards (I've featured their butterfly placecards before) that are perfect for larger dinner affairs.

Plates and Napkins also offers peacock themed items. Use these beverage napkins to punch up table settings.

Here's some other vendors you might want to check out for make your peacock party take fight:

A Luvabull Party: Wishing for Chicago to Sign Lebron

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 09:01:00 +0000

Surely, every basketball lover's eyes will be glued to ESPN tonight when Lebron James announces what team he'll sign with. Of course, I'm rooting for the Second City's franchise, the Chicago Bulls to get the prized player. When he DOES sign, you can celebrate with these Chicago Bulls themed party inspirations.

Photo Credit: IGN

Music:

Download the instrumental version of "Sirius" by the Alan Parson's Project (The team's home game/stadium theme song). Also download these arena staples:

"Can't Touch This" - MC Hammer
"Bring Em Out" - T.I.
"Shut Up" - Trick Daddy
"We Fly High (Ballin')" - Jim Jones
"Lose Yourself" - Eminem
"They're Playin Basketball" - Kurtis Blow
"Lets Get It Started" - Black Eye Peas
"Whoomp! There It Is" - Tag Team
"Get Ready for This" - 2 Unlimited

Decorations:

Go all out with red, black and white decorations. Get door fringe for entryways, balloons and streamers. This cool banner comes from Party City.

Hang framed posters of all of the Chicago Bulls greatest players Michael Jordan, Scottie Pipen, Dennis Rodman, and Lebron James. Place a novelty crown on top, since he is dubbed King James.

Photo Credit: Graphics Hut

You can provide whistles as guest favors. These are from Party City.

Food:

Serve Chicago style hot dogs and deep-dish pizza. Any real Chicagoan would not even DARE including ketchup as a condiment. Here's a recipe for Italian ice, another thing Chicago is famous for.

You can never go wrong with red velvet cupcakes at a Bulls themed party (or any party for that matter). Try Eat Yet's delicious recipe. Top them with Fancy Flours basketball picks.

Keep your fingers crossed Chicago! I'm Wrightfully wishing for the King!

Pearls of Wisdom Party: Part II

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 00:37:00 +0000

Earlier this week I shared my granny's birthday party, you can check out Part I for all the decoration details. Now for the yummy part....

We split our buffet between desserts and beverages. I found this adorable beverage dispenser along with an affordable cake stand from Target. I filled apothecary jars with yogurt pretzels and popcorn to keep sweet bites monochromatic. We also enjoyed lemon cake, lemonade, and peach champagne.

I used Recipe Girl's tips to create Snickerdoodle cupcakes. I don't claim to be the most sophisticated of bakers, but this recipe was easy to follow and the cupcakes were delish! I purchased this adorable cupcake stand to display my latest culinary achievement and complete the buffet table from Party City.

I wrapped the jars with white ribbon to match the table. I created pearl napkin rings with pearl beads and elastic string. Another view below...

Along with a centerpiece and accent decorations, the food spread included rib tips and hot link sausages which were complemented by spaghetti and macaroni and cheese. Lighter bites included chips and dips, watermelon and fruit platters.

We used recyclable plates which were surprisingly sturdy and matched the pearl and cream color palette.

The food was great! Perfect for the Fourth of July, but sophisticated enough for a intimate family gathering. Mercedes was pooped after filling up on carrot snacks and two divalicious wardrobe changes.

Pearls of Wisdom Party: Part I

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 10:30:00 +0000

My grandmother turned 81 years ~~old~~ young last week. To celebrate, I planned a pearl themed party to honor the pearls of wisdom she has provided our family and showcase her love for pearls (which also happens to be her birthstone)!

This party also marks the first time our small family has been together in more than a decade, so I hired a photographer to take family portraits while I snapped candids.

I incorporated several old photos into accent decorations. Pictures of my grandmother were adorned with floral stickers and placed next to small containers filled with pearls and filler beads. They also served as favors, since many family members did not have any family pictures.

The party was hosted in our dining room where we draped tulle, pearl strands and silk flowers over cupboards, buffets, and on our dining room table. On our antique mirror, I hung a "81" sign that I created from cardboard and small pearls beads.

Guests were greeted by pearlized banners graced with lace and ribbon.

The food table's centerpiece made an elegant statement with pearlized silk flowers and branches. The base was surrounded by flowers and wrapped with polka dot ribbon.

I created tissue paper pompoms to drape the foyer. I also draped pearl garland.

My cousin's pup was pretty and patriotic since we hosted the party on Independence Day! I had to share this adorable pic of Mercedes...

It was a wonderful celebration that created smiles, nostalgia and joyful tears; which was the greatest gift a hostess could ever ask for. While this celebration took months to plan and hours to create, those memories will last a lifetime and that's more than a granddaughter could ever ask for.

Hope everyone enjoyed their 4th of July weekend!

Part II with food deetz coming soon!

UPDATE: See Part II here.

More Than Stars & Stripes

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 08:32:00 +0000

As you begin prepping your 4th of July celebration think beyond stars and stripes.

Guests can cool down with Baskin-Robbins' seasonal treat America's Birthday Cake ice cream cake. It's my favorite indulgence next to Snickerdoodles. (I also have a soft spot for BR since it was my first job).

Party City is having an AMAZING sale on summer party items. You can get 24 plastic forks and knives for $0.99 or coordinating napkins like these polka dot napkins (also available in baby blue).

You can make your tablescape pop with complementary baby blue and red plates.

Light up your indoor and porch celebrations with this beautiful candelabra from Social Couture.

Party City also has an adorable array of paper lanterns and fan decorations such as this set. Surround the foot with baby's breath or white hydrangea flowers.

Serve refreshing All-Natural Izze Sparkling Juice. Following the patriotic theme, provide pomegranate; blackberry and blueberry flavors. IZZE esque Limon has a low calorie content. Parasols make pretty toppers for beverages. Check out Martha Stewart's paper parasols atop straw.

You can get more printable ideas here.

I hope these ideas provide you with all the Wrightful inspiration to make this weekend special!

HAPPY (EARLY) FOURTH OF JULY EVERYONE!!

Candy Coated Celebrations

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Sun, 27 Jun 2010 06:54:00 +0000

Want to throw a super shindig for your sweetie? Celebrate a candy lover? Try some of these party inspirations to make your party a Wrightful celebration!

You can definitely make your guests feel like they are walking into a candy store with this colorful wreath made out of balloons!

HowDoesShe.com has instructions for creating this crafty and affordable accessory. You can use it as a door accessory or a wall decoration.

Hang a colorful Pier 1 paper lantern with matching lanterns in various colors to transform an ordinary room into Willy Wonka's candy (or was it a chocolate) factory.

I found these adorable and delicious ice cream cupcake cones on Sweet Tooth. Otherwise dress up a cupcake tower with this Meri Meri cupcake kit. I would also recommend this colorful cake recipe I featured here. Trust me when I say everyone will want a piece of the rainbow!

Also found this adorable candy cake on Your Homebased Parties for an edible centerpiece.

Make your table setting pop with polka dot napkins from Plates & Napkins. Again, use a variety of colors for plates, cups, and cutlery. Wrap with a ribbon and place these colorful picks on top.

Give guests these sweet party favors from Beau Coup.

What's a candy themed party without candy? Create a dessert table with filled with colorful sprinkled cookies and licorice, rock candy pops, Skittles, gummy bears, and chews.

Celebrate Michael Jackson's Life

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Sat, 26 Jun 2010 03:49:00 +0000

It is hard to believe that it has been a year since Michael Jackson's passing. If you have you want to pay homage to the King of Pop check out some of these party-starting ideas below.

Photo Credit: Vintage Blue

IT"S ALL ABOUT THE GLOVE!
This was a signature part of Jackson's look and persona. Instead of wearing it, incorporate it into party decor. Use it in a centerpiece along with a fedora, sunglasses and black dancing shoes alongside a framed picture of Michael Jackson.

FILLERS & THRILLERS
Shake up your party by hosting a Thriller dance contest. Play the music and see who can recreate the choreography from the legendary video best. Party goers can serve as judges.Whoever wins gets crowned as the "King (or Queen) of Party"! Use the same concept to see who's the best moonwalker!

MJ JAMS:
Any tribute to the music icon would not be complete without playing some of his hits. His music spans decades and transcends generations. You should have no problem finding "Best of...", "#1s", and covers of his greatest hits. Here's some of my fave MJ songs:

"Man in the Mirror"
"Music & Me"
"Butterflies"
"P.Y.T."
"Will You Be There"
"Heaven Can Wait"
"Don't Stop Til You Get Enough"
(and of course) "Thriller"

What are your favorite MJ tunes?

Dear Recipe Girl...You ROCK For This!

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 01:14:00 +0000

I have many indulgences, but Snickerdoodle cookies are the bee's knees for me. So when I found a divine blogger by the name of Recipe Girl's recipe for Snickerdoodle CUPCAKES, I fainted!

Photo Credit: Recipe Girl

These looks absolutely delish! I think this will be a perfect desert for my granny's upcoming birthday celebration that I'll feature in the coming weeks. I'm a little scared since my last kitchen endeavor started off rocky.

You can check out the recipe and more pics here and here.

Aloha to Summer Celebrations

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 03:59:00 +0000

Luaus are popular for summer partying. You can use this theme to celebrate birthdays, summer holidays, family reunions and much more! Additionally, you can find many decorations at party stores on sale! Check out some of my suggestions below for creating your own party paradise!

This adorable napkin pattern comes from Plate and Napkin. I'd recommend pairing this color scheme with solid pink and orange plates, napkins, cups and serveware.

Hang banners that read "Mahalo" (or thank you) and "Aloha" (hello, goodbye or love). You can also decorate with DIY complementary-colored tissue pom poms. You can read Martha Stewart's instructions on creating these decorations here.

As favors, give guest leis and hulu skirts. Place hibiscus flowers in female patrons' hair. Keep guests entertained by hiring a halau or hulu dance troupe or to teach guests the exotic dance or provide a short performance.

If you're celebrating a special occasion, check out this cake (pictured left) by Cakes by Steph.

You can get really awesome coconut cups from Oriental Trading. They also have affordable rafia table skirting that you can use to spruce up buffet and serving tables. Party City also offers an adorable pink and orange one.

I saw this salad recipe on Scientific Housewife and thought it would be great for a light luau menu.

True Blood Watch Party

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 01:06:00 +0000

You might remember my post from last year on hosting a True Blood themed party. Well I hosted one for the June 13th premiere! The party easy to pull together since there were only eight guests.

Although we didn't get a chance to play "Who Am I" I included the tip sheet below. When guest enter, pin a flash card with TB character names on the back of their shirt. Guests must figure out which character they are supposed to be by having other party goers talk to them as though they are that character. It makes a great icebreaker and allows for those that are not devout Truebies become familiar with the show.

A banner that reads "welcome" and door fringe graced the Fangastic celebration's entryway. I cut embossed circles out of scrapbooking paper and hot glued chipboard letters on top of them. I connected the circles with lace. You can get door fringe from Party City.

I created a second banner reading "True Blood Watch Party" using the same method to decorate the wall behind the TV screen.

I hung fangs and streamers from the ceiling using red ribbon.

As a centerpiece, I wrapped this hurricane vase with scrapbooking paper, lace and chip board letters that read "fangs." I filled the vase with beads and silk flowers. I draped fangs from the branches.

We had "suckulent" bites as well! My good friend Cassie and her mom prepared the main course consisting of a variety of Cajun chicken buffalo wings, artichoke dip and chips, veggies and cream cupcakes. We also had strawberry licorice and Hot Tamales.

Guests also sipped on blood red fruit punch.

Guest also received fangs as favors. They make the perfect photo op (and blackmail)!

So what do you think of the show so far?

Too cute for words

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Sat, 22 May 2010 07:40:00 +0000

I come across this super adorable party on the "Party Dress" blog and had to share. Perf for celebrating your little special guy's birthday.

See the deetz to this party here.

Trying to Conquer a Fear

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Sun, 16 May 2010 21:04:00 +0000

One of the things I love about Spring is all of the colorful party ideas, themes, and celebrations. However, if there is one thing that I ~~hate~~ fear most, its bugs! Unfortunately, the Spring brings Butterfly birthday parties and Ladybug Luncheons. Things that I could never participate in because I have a HUGE phobia of all creepy crawlers (and fliers).

I see all the gorgeous decorations and ideas, but hate to see these supposedly graceful winged insects and cringe. I hope to get over this fear someday, but for now its paralyzing.

Despite this fear, I found these gorgeous party ideas and decorations.

This hanging butterfly (also available in orange, pictured above) comes from Save On Crafts. Its perfect for a fun eye-catching hanging decoration.

This Grass Patch comes from Social Couture, perfect for creating a Spring/Summer feel. use this for a unique centerpiece.

These Butterflies on Stems come from Hobby Lobby (one of my obsessions) and comes in a variety of colors. Stick these in the grass to make the centerpiece pop.

Use snazzy serve ware and cutlery like these paper plates from Party City.

If you're doing a dinner party, use these gorgeous butterfly place cards from Timeless Paper for a sophisticated spin.

For favor ideas, use colorful jelly beans, gumballs, and rainbow lollipops.

Karate Kid Bash

noreply@blogger.com (Wrightfully Social) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 07:07:00 +0000

Earlier this week, Victoria Beckham was on "The View" discussing possible birthday party ideas for her son. She mentioned a martial arts theme and that got my gears working! This would be an awesome theme for kids enrolled in martial arts classes or celebrating the various degrees of belts.

Create an Asian inspired tablescape with a red tablecover. Buy black plates, cups, and cutlery for contrast. Check out this beautiful cake (pictured above) by Paula Surrette. You can find Asian-inspired tea votive holders just about anywhere.

Decorate your home or party room with streamers and balloons in black, white, and red. I came across this cool "black belt bash-in-a-box" kit at Shindigz (pictured left). You can find an assortment of paper lanterns from Party City and Oriental Trading Company.

For entertainment, ask a martial arts or self defense instructor to do a short demonstration or teach a short class to young guests. Kids can practice their round house kicks on this inflatable kick post (pictured below) from Birthday in a Box. Once the children wear down from roughhousing, pop in a one of the following movies:

Kung Fu Panda (one of my favorite Disney movies as of recent, "Ka-Doosh!")

Karate Kid (BTW, I'm excited for the remake featuring Jaden Smith and Jackie Chan!)
Karate Kid II (girls can kick butt too!)
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (the one from the 90s, not the latest ones)
Mortal Kombat (PG13)
Street Fighter (PG13)
Dragonball Evolution
Romeo Must Die (I love Aaliyah, but this movie is rated R though)

Of course you can rent Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan classics like Enter the Dragon or Rumble in the Bronx, but those movies might be a bit mature as well.

Buy small chinese takeout boxes for giftbags, fill them with ninja figurines, stickers, and fortune cookies. Below I have included some suggestions:

Clockwise: Fortune Cookies (Oriental Trading Company), Karate Party Blower (Birthday in a Box), Karate Stickers (Birthday in a Box)