Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Life

Category: Entertaining

  • Hanging String Lights for Outdoors

    One of the best ways to dress up a patio, porch, or backyard is to add the perfect display of string lights for outdoors. It’s a simple and reasonably inexpensive way to bring much-needed illumination to your space and an instant boost of charm. There’s just something about the warm glow of the lights that elevates the ambiance of any area, whether the goal is to create a private spot for entertaining friends, relaxing with family, or adding a hint of romance for date-night drinks. To help you begin the transformation, we reveal some of our favorite ways to create a magical oasis by hanging outdoor string lights. 

    Before You Begin Hanging String Lights for Outdoors

    Before you make any purchases, take a moment to assess your goals for your balcony, yard, or patio. Do you want the lights to highlight an entertaining space? You’ll need to plan your anchor points and determine how far apart each bulb should be to illuminate a long dining table properly. Whereas a small conversation pit or cozy outdoor relaxation nook will have different needs – perhaps something softer with a more intimate glow. Whatever your goals, deciding your priorities before you shop or start to hang the lights is the key to saving money and time.                                                                             

    Choose the Right Style of String Lights

    Today, there are so many different styles of string lights for outdoors. You can choose ones that fit your home’s architectural style or select ones that mirror your personality. If you love vintage-inspired bulbs, you’ll find dozens to choose from, including the Edison, which is among the most popular options for outdoor entertaining. Do you have access to an outdoor outlet? If not, you’ll want to focus on battery-operated lights or solar-powered options. Expert Jeff Manning advises Martha Stewart Living that people opt for “LED lights or light ropes that are resistant to the elements—and that can change colors for occasions.” High-quality lights will stand up to surprise snow, wind, and rain. They can also handle the scorching temperatures that arrive early and stay late into the year in the south and the desert southwest. 

    Find Your Anchor Points

    The easiest approach to hanging outdoor string lights is to use at least one, if not more, existing anchor points. This might be your porch columns, the side of your house, trees, a pergola, or a sturdy privacy fence. The Spruce recommends using existing anchors when possible because “not only does this eliminate the job of making posts, but existing anchor points tend to be solid, permanent, and better integrated into your yard’s footprint.” 

    If you have your heart set on enlivening your space with string lights but don’t have multiple existing anchor points, you do have the option of putting in freestanding posts. The Spruce explains: “Setting an 8- or 10-foot two-by-two in a concrete-filled broad-base container produces an anchor post sufficient to hold one end of a 25-foot run of overhead lights. This can be paired with another anchor post or with a solid existing anchor point.”  

    Support the Cords

    Try to avoid hanging your string lights by the cords alone. This can considerably strain the cords, which invites damage, particularly when weather rolls in. Instead, The Spruce recommends using “wire rope and eye bolts to support the cords.” There are also several brands of string lights for outdoor use that include loops as part of the bulb housing, making it easy to screw the bulb directly into an anchor point or run a support wire through it. 

    A Word of Caution

    Always choose safety first. Even when your string lights are certified for outdoor use, the experts warn Martha Stewart Living to never hang them “over recreational water spots, like swimming pools or hot tubs.” Should the lights accidentally fall into the pool, it could pose a potentially serious hazard.  

    Select Your String Light Formation

    You want to make the most out of your bulbs, so choosing the best formation for your space is critical. Southern Living loves using a zigzag design when working with a large backyard or garden. Why? “[This] look covers more ground than a standard linear style. Just know that if you don’t have a fence framing your yard, you’ll need to install multiple anchor points.” For larger yards, Southern Living also applauds the idea of elevating the ambiance by focusing on perimeter lights; “perimeter lighting (coupled with distinctive flooring) can help establish a separate space for dining,” although you will likely need additional table lights for evening meals. 

    Simple crisscross formations are among the most affordable options as they are perfect for illuminating dining tables or square spaces with the fewest number of lights. However, if you have a fence or pergola that can anchor them, creating a waterfall effect with a cascade of string lights will yield a tremendous amount of light as a backdrop to your outdoor entertaining space, and it will dazzle your guests.

    Is your conversation or dining space already beautifully framed by a garden or trees? Rather than loosely draping outdoor string lights, consider wrapping them around the trees instead. The Spruce adores the idea of creating bejeweled trees set aglow by twinkling lights. Light wrapping works on most trees, even palms, as “trunks wrapped with white or red lights show off their vertical, upright forms, drawing the eye upward toward the night sky.” Wrap from the bottom upward and ensure even spacing. Use a ladder to continue the twinkling lights up and over odd-shaped branches and limbs to put the perfect finish on this strikingly magical vision.

  • Have a Memorable Fourth of July

    Have a blast this July 4th using the following recipes, backyard décor ideas, and fun outdoor activities.  

     Fourth of July Recipes 

    • These delicious July 4th picnic recipes will result in an all-star gathering.    
    • Stir this Provencal pesto into a bowl of boiled potatoes or pasta salad with shredded chicken.  
    • Mix a refreshing pear vinaigrette with this grilled vegetable and mozzarella ensalada. 
    • These open-face pesto-chicken mozzarella melts will be a huge hit at any gathering. Serve these grilled chicken burgers on a slice of ciabatta bread with a few fresh basil leaves for one incredible meal.  
    • Serve flavor-packed black bean chipotle burgers that will make everyone’s tastebuds dance with joy.  
    • Easy to grab, delicious to eat, these hamburger sliders with cranberry chutney are perfect for any backyard gathering.  
    • Bake one white and one red velvet cake. After they have cooled, cut each cake into about 1-inch slices and stack them alternating each layer, so it looks like the stripes on the American flag. Add blue food coloring to icing before spreading it on top, and then for the final touch, add white star sprinkles.  
    • End the day with a fresh and berry-topped, berry delicious flag cake.  
    • Bake an Independence Day cookie pizza! Press and flatten cookie dough into a 14-inch pizza pan and bake it until golden. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, and then scatter mini marshmallows across the top. Then sprinkle the top with red and blue candy-coated chocolates. Easy and delicious.  
    • This patriotic berry flag tart is just as tasty as it looks.  
    • Make American flag pretzel sticks by dipping a pretzel into melted white chocolate about 5 inches. After it has cooled, dip the same end of the pretzel into melted blue chocolate about 1 inch and place white start sprinkles on the blue portion before it dries. Fill a piping bag with red icing and drizzle it back and forth across the white chocolate to create the stripes.  

    • Get your patriotic party on with incredible 4th of July drinks.  
    • Enjoy these refreshing summer cocktails that are exactly what your guests will enjoy at the end of a hot day.  

     

    Backyard Preparation and July 4th Décor 

    • Check out creative benches and built-in seating solutions for your deck or patio that are practical and look great.  
    • Learn how to build a freestanding deck to enhance your home’s exterior and host memorable outdoor gatherings.   
    • Summer is in full swing; here are a few outdoor patio ideas that will help you enjoy your July 4th gathering and all future outdoor parties.    
    • Red, white, and blue, these Fourth of July crafts are for you.  
    • These DIY planter rockets will be a blast to create and will make your yard look fabulous.    

     

    Outdoor Activities for the 4th of July 

    • Get your game on and discover some family fun with fourth of July games for kids.  
    • Make a photo booth in your backyard! Use construction paper to cut out patriotic themed props such as red hats and blue bowties. Take silly photos and share them with loved ones.   
    • Discover endless entertainment with these games you’ll be playing all summer long.  
    • Build a rocket out of cardboard boxes so the young ones can fly high. Take a large cardboard box, cut out ½ of one side, and place it upright so the opening serves as a window. Cut out two wings and tape one to each side. For the top of the rocket, cut out a triangle and attach it to the top. If you want to take it another level, you can paint the outside or wrap it in fun wrapping paper. Glue painted bottle caps on to look like buttons and use a paper plate as a wheel. Blast off!  

    • These fun outdoor yard games are great family entertainment and will be a hit at parties.  
    • Set up a kid’s craft table. Use toilet paper or paper towel tubes to make little rockets! You and the kids can paint the cardboard red, white, and blue and then glue ribbons or tassels onto one end. Paint little stars on the outside to give it a boost! For the top of the rocket, make a cone shape out of paper to glue it to the top. 

  • Get Grilling and Throw the Ultimate BBQ

    Throw the ultimate BBQ. Below you will find scrumptious recipes and cocktail concoctions that will be sure to make your heart and stomach sing. There are also incredible ways to design your outdoor space and games that people of all ages will enjoy playing!

    Finger-licking BBQ Recipes

    • Carnivores aren’t the only ones who can relish in a good day of grilling. Veggie lovers will enjoy these grilled vegetarian recipes. Also, these crowd-pleasing kabobs are just right for backyard barbecues.
    • Beans, beans they’re good your heart, from this dish you will not part. Discover the best baked beans
    • I know it’s corny, but nothing can beat these corn on the cob toppers.
    • An outdoor barbeque without watermelon is simply melon-cholic. Discover tons of mouthwatering watermelon recipes perfect for summer days and nights.
    • These BBQ rub recipes will rub everyone the right way.
    • Tis the season and summer for smokey flavors. Learn how to make a smoker using your gas or charcoal grill.
    • We have a lot of “ketching” up to do. Here are the best grilling recipes so you can “meat” up with your friends for delicious food and fun.
    • A few days before your BBQ, fill a few containers with water and place them in the freezer. You can place the large ice blocks under dips and other food that needs to stay cold to keep them from spoiling.
    • Label your food, so people don’t have to ask you what’s in everything. Take bright paper and cut out long triangles. Glue the triangle to the top of a toothpick, so it looks like a small flag. You can then use a sharpie or pen to write “vegetarian chili” or “spicy ribs” on the flag, so everyone knows what they are digging into.

    Cocktail and Drink Concoctions

    Backyard BBQ Preparation and Décor

    • Uncover tips and tricks on how to outfit your outdoor living area for summer. Whether you have a large yard or a small patio, these tips can help you appreciate and enjoy your outdoor space.
    • A great way to serve your sliders is on a natural wooden serving tray that provides a rustic and stylish touch.
    • Create a beautiful outdoor dining area with décor found around your home. Grab a few old planters and plastic pots and fill them with succulents, herbs, or flowers. Then wrap them with fabric, paper, or burlap to transform them into rustic centerpieces.
    • Get inspired and create the perfect porch and patio dining.
    • For a bright and colorful centerpiece fill a large clear vase with lemons and water. For an extra pop you can add flowers.
    • Hang string lights or place tiki torches around the yard to create a fun and relaxed vibe. Tiki torches are easy to install, affordable, and can even help repel mosquitos. While they create the perfect ambiance, make sure there is at least 6ft of clearance on all sides, and they are firmly placed into the ground.

     

    Fun Activities for your BBQ

    • Once your tummies are full of delicious food and the BBQ sauce is wiped off your hands, check out these fun outdoor yard games.
    • Make an outdoor photobooth! Use a wooden fence or greenery as a backdrop. Use construction paper to cut out fun and silly props such as mustaches, funny hats, and then glue the end to chopsticks or wooden dowels.
    • Build your very own cornhole boards and have fun in the sun with your family and friends.
    • Learn how to play croquet for a great outdoor party. It’s fun, everyone can play, and you won’t get super sweaty playing before eating.
    • Discover how to create a backyard cinema so you and your guests can watch the game or a movie in the beautiful outdoors.

     

    More Backyard Fun:

     

  • Celebrate Summer with these Festive Party Themes

    Summer is here and it’s time to party! Start the easy living by planning the perfect summertime soiree. Get your guest list together and pick a date. We’ll help you throw the ultimate summer spectacular with a fun and festive theme.

    Family members, new and old friends alike will love spending a laid-back day or night with great food and beautiful décor. Keep it casual or dress it up. Embrace the spirit of the season and enjoy creating a space for relaxation.

    Here are some of our favorite summer party theme ideas:

    Summer beach party

    You don’t have to live at the beach to bring the surf and sand to your summer party. A backyard isn’t even necessary, although a great outdoor space helps establish a beachy mood. If you have a yard or outside area, little sand islands and trails create perfect places for lingering.

    Indoor and outdoor gathering spots get their beach on when you decorate them with sand-filled hurricane lamps holding simple white candles. Keep plenty of beach blankets and towels on hand for lounging, and make sure you have refreshing drinks for the day followed by warm-up beverages throughout the evening.

    A tropical oasis

    Turn your home into a tropical oasis with colorful flowers and lush plants, as well as tiki torches and island-inspired cocktails or mocktails. Create a rainforest atmosphere complete with soothing soundscapes or invite guests into a thatched hut or luau setting.

    Hand out real flower leis made with orchids, jasmine or plumeria. Serve dragon fruit or guava sorbet and consider hiring a hula dance instructor to teach partygoers traditional Hawaiian and Polynesian dance.

    Movie under the stars

    Wait out the intense heat of the day and congregate around a movie screen at night. Don’t have a silver screen or can’t find a place to rent one? Configure a makeshift setup with a sheet or project onto the side of your house. You can “roll” films from an old-school projector or stream them from your laptop.

    Backyard movies under the stars are some of the most fun summertime parties. Hook up theater speakers, line up chairs (or piles of blankets) and treat your guests to freshly popped popcorn and natural cane sugar sodas for a new release or classic. Your event will be one to remember.

  • Creating a Fabulous Game Room

    If you’re thinking about creating a game room in your home now that the kids are in school — or if the video games and their consoles are constantly underfoot or under couch cushions — now’s the time to start planning your game room decor so the space works for the entire family.

    Purposing Your Space

    If arcade games, pinball machines, or carnival games are your thing, your game room is going to look very different from one that features a ping pong, pool, or card table. The same goes for a predominantly board game-focused room or a room designed for video gaming.

    Knowing how you’ll realistically use the room is key to getting the decor right and making the space a home away from home. That could mean creating a fabulous space for neighborhood kids to gather, or a man cave/she shed where you can occasionally escape from homework supervision and chores to watch a rom-com or play a rousing round of Call of Duty or Dungeons and Dragons.

    Attics, Basements, and More

    Basements aren’t the only options for game rooms. Take a look at your attic space, or consider repurposing your family room, den, spare bedroom, built-in porch or sunroom. You can even use part of the garage, depending on what kind of game  room you want yours to be.

    When thinking about the space, consider existing lighting, wiring, and typical temperatures. Also, consider what improvements you’ll need to make the space cozy and inviting. 

    For instance, if vintage pinball games or billiards are your thing, make sure the floors you’ve got can take the load and your doorways are wide enough to get the equipment into the room. Standard pinball machines are about 32 inches wide and weigh 200 to 300 pounds, and pool tables (unless they have slate tops) are about the same. If you’re looking at an attic game room,  you may have to reinforce the floor joists.

    Choosing Your Lighting

    If video gaming is your game room’s primary purpose, you want to make sure you eliminate sources that can create ambient light or exacerbate glare. Consider blackout curtains and stay away from light, glossy paints with their reflective surfaces. 

    In multi-purpose game rooms, you’re going to want to create layers of lighting. Avoid bulky overhead fixtures and instead install pendant lighting over the areas you want to be illuminated, like the poker or pool table. Recessed lights and a single pendant light will work for the area around a foosball or poker table, but you may want a different kind of lighting for board games and jigsaw puzzle assembly.

    Soundproofing and Wiring

    If the room you’ve decided to designate the family game room is already finished, adding insulation or soundproofing can be an expensive proposition. Blow-in loose-fill insulation is inexpensive and really helps with noise transmission, but sound panels and blankets will do the trick, too. Carpeting is the ultimate stealth soundproofing decor choice, and if you’re replacing the carpet, you can choose a thicker underpad when the new carpet is installed.

    For higher-tech game rooms, wiring can run under the new carpeting (but check with your electrician first). Alternatively, you can use wirehouses or cable tracks to bundle wires. You’ll need grounded outlets for arcade and pinball machines. Video gamers will appreciate a hardwired data connection to avoid stalling, which can ruin the immersive experience, and an upgraded router that can handle all your home’s interconnected devices.

    Furniture and Decor

    Comfort is king in game rooms, and again, usage will dictate decor. Proper gaming chairs with stellar lumbar support are crucial for video gamers, while flooring materials that provide a little more cushioning are more important for billiards, ping pong, or darts.

    In multi-purpose game rooms, furniture that’s both comfortable and easy to rearrange makes sense. That doesn’t mean cornering the market in bean bag chairs. You’ll need furniture you can sprawl on when watching movies and comfortable chairs for intense poker sessions or chess bouts that last longer than planned.

    Keep colors and wall treatments simple. This is not the spot for flocked wallpaper or elaborate feature walls. Your game  room will probably already have a lot going on. Consider echoing or amplifying the colors of your games themselves, especially if you have arcade or pinball games or a pool table with a distinctive felt shade.

    Make sure you’ve got storage, whether built-in, purpose-built, or a repurposed closet. No one will want to spend time in a game room that looks chaotic (or hours hunting for the video game they want to play). This might be the perfect spot for a pallet wall where you can hang pool cues or ping pong paddles.

  • Family-Friendly Winter Dinner Ideas for Busy Weeknights

    Are you searching for winter dinner ideas that are simple to make and perfect for hectic weeknights? We understand. There is nothing better than digging into hearty soups, comforting casseroles, and other filling delights when the weather is blustery. The good news is that even on wintry weeknights when busy schedules are the norm, you can still make family-friendly recipes that satisfy. Read on as we reveal some of our favorite winter dinner ideas that the whole family will love.

    Cheddar, Beef, and Potato Casserole

    If you are a fan of Shepherd’s Pie, you are going to adore Martha Stewart Living’s “Cheddar, Beef, and Potato Casserole.” The editors embraced it because they were also looking for “an ultra-comforting, family-friendly dinner recipe.” This thoroughly satisfying meal takes the classic Shepherd’s Pie idea and replaces the traditional mashed potato with a crispy hash brown topping that is too enticing to resist. On the inside, you have a “savory mixture of sautéed onions, ground beef, and mushrooms” as well as “mixed vegetables and cheddar cheese.” The bake takes approximately 40 minutes, and you will want to finish it in the broiler for a final five minutes to crisp up the topping, according to the Magazine. Don’t be surprised if this becomes one of your go-to recipes for years to come. 

    Irish Beef, Cabbage, and Potato Soup

    While this may sound more like a St. Patrick’s Day recipe than a winter dinner idea, trust us – you don’t want to wait. Real Simple raves about adding this soup to your weeknight rotation because “[this] hearty Irish fare tastes especially good on chilly winter nights” and “[from] start to finish the soup takes approximately an hour and a half.” Browning the meat and simmering the beef with the potatoes and the other fixings are the most time-consuming element of this delicious recipe, while active prep is relatively short. And as the Magazine suggests: “The payoff will be clear when your entire family asks for seconds.” 

    Quick Pork Goulash

    Goulash is another classic dish that is getting a reimagining from the food editors at Martha Stewart Living. In this case, they found a way to make this Hungarian classic in under one hour – which is impressive for goulash with this much flavor. The key to this quick winter dinner is the cut of the meat. As the Magazine explains: “By opting for quick-cooking tenderloin instead of the more common shoulder roast, the pork becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender in a fraction of the time.” They recommend serving this satiating dish over buttered egg noodles, but mashed potatoes, rice, bread, or elbow pasta are also thoroughly pleasing pairings with this rich goulash.

    Vegetarian One-Pot Pasta with Broccoli and Lemon 

    One of Martha Stewart Living’s favorite winter dinner ideas is a one-pot pasta dish that takes less than 30 minutes from start to serve. As the Magazine advises: “This vegetarian pasta dish is easy, delicious, and something everyone will love.” While the recipe is vegetarian as is, it can easily be made vegan by either eliminating the Parmesan topping or switching to grated vegan cheese. This recipe is a great way to combine a healthy eating plan with comfort food.  Plus, clean-up is a snap.

    Pea and Lettuce Soup With Ham and Cheese Tartines

    Pea soup is a winter staple, and when you combine it with ham and cheese tartines, you have a quick way to make a delicious dinner in about 25 minutes. Plus, as Real Simple points out, it’s a great way “to use that head of romaine lettuce before it spoils” in the refrigerator. It may seem strange that romaine is a secret ingredient in this bright green soup recipe, but it’s true. And while the tartines may look complicated, the most critical elements are well-made ciabatta rolls and a broiler to help you perfectly melt that cheese. 

    Boarding House Meatloaf

    Just the notion of meatloaf can make one think of childhood and warm, comfort food. It’s no surprise that one of Southern Living’s most popular winter dinner ideas is the “Easy Boarding House Meatloaf.” The Magazine describes this dish as “fresh, filling, and oh-so-easy to make;” just what you want on a cold night. While the base of this meatloaf (lean ground beef, bell peppers, and onions) is filled with flavor, it’s the homemade tangy sauce in this recipe that makes it sing. And, as the Magazine reveals: “With only 10 minutes of hands-on time, the Boarding House Meatloaf is the perfect recipe when you’re rushed to make dinner on a hectic weeknight.” 

    Chickpea and Quinoa Tortilla Soup

    This tortilla soup is an excellent choice whenever the temperatures start to dip. Real Simple loves this idea because “[the] vegetarian soup features good-for-you ingredients like quinoa and chickpeas, has big, bold flavors, and comes together in just 25 minutes.” You’ll also love the wide variety of toppings that you can add to the soup before serving, including things like avocado, cheese, and tortilla chips. And, of course, you can never go wrong with a dollop of sour cream.

    Cowboy Casserole

    If you love tater tots (or your kids do), you will want to add Southern Living’s “Cowboy Casserole” to your weeknight dinner lineup because “the layer of crunchy tater tots that line the top of this casserole is its claim to fame.” The base of the family-friendly casserole is the ground beef that is flavored with taco seasoning. This recipe gets high marks for taking everyday ingredients in the cupboard, such as black beans, pinto beans, onions, tomatoes, and garlic, and turning them into an almost magical dish that is intensely satisfying. And, of course, the tater tots drizzled with shredded cheese are the perfect topper.  

    Blackened Chicken with Broccoli Slaw

    Chicken tenders are often a hit with busy families, and Rachael Ray’s In Season agrees that these tasty treats are too tempting to skip this winter. The Magazine recommends seasoning skillet-blackened chicken tenders with Cajun seasoning and oil, as well as serving them with broccoli slaw. It’s a simple dinner idea that takes only minutes to prepare, cook, and serve. As the Magazine cheers, “this meal is perfect for busy weeknights and hungry kids!” 

    Skillet Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs

    Speaking of skillet dishes that the whole family will enjoy, Southern Living raves about this “Skillet Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs” recipe. According to the Magazine, “the skillet is the secret to the slightly crispy sides of this mac and cheese.” Of course, this is not your ordinary mac and cheese. This recipe became one of the Magazine’s favorite winter dinner ideas, in part, because it includes a sumptuous blend of “cheddar, Velveeta, and whole-milk ricotta, and a generous amount of mayonnaise, which gives it a creamy texture and a slight tanginess.” It’s topped with buttery breadcrumbs, which are added to the skillet in the last 10 minutes of the bake. We can practically taste the gooey goodness and delectable crunch of this vegetarian dish already. Yum!

  • Decorating with Holiday Lighting

    As the season of celebration arrives, your home’s festive spirit can shine with dazzling holiday lighting. This doesn’t mean that you need to have lights on every inch of your rooftop or trees – although we support that! Even small accents, from window treatments to nightstand accessories, can make an impact. With a little bit of planning, the possibilities for glowing good cheer are endless. Read on as we share some of our favorite ideas for bringing the season alive with joyous holiday lighting.  

    Send a Message with LED Rope Holiday Lighting

    LED rope lights allow you to send a message in a way that is “bright, energy-efficient, and easy,” according to Martha Stewart Living. The Magazine offers templates, including their gorgeous “Joy” sign, that allow you to write out your season’s greetings in style. The lights are attached to “a grid of wire wreath forms with heavy-duty cable ties” and can be quickly displayed on windows, garage doors, and across porch railings, as well as throughout your home. In fact, they are so easy to create, you may want to hang more than one. 

    Say It With Snowflakes

    Speaking of rope lights, you can create stunning hanging snowflake ornaments, perfect for decorating gazebos, trees, and porch beams. You can craft this glimmering holiday light display by “hand-twisting rope lights” in a pattern available through Martha Stewart Living and then hanging them by their cords, which are artfully hidden by ribbon. This wintry decoration is perfect for celebrating the holidays, but it is so welcoming that you might want to keep these snowflakes up until spring.

    Stage Mason Jar Strands

    Whether you are hoping to add holiday lighting to bedroom nightstands or want to illuminate walkways for guests, mason jars may be the key to your winter decorating. The idea is a favorite of the pros at Real Simple. “Fill a large Mason jar with a strand or two of battery-powered lights to add whimsy,” and you are done.  It’s that easy. We also love seeing them on tables for outdoor entertaining – those cold nights by the firepit take on an extra magical quality when you can see these lights twinkling in the darkness. Plus, it makes seeing your fabulous snacks even easier. 

    Display a String-Light Christmas Tree 

    Would you love to add a Christmas tree to your child’s room but don’t want to deal with the potential mess and expense? Holiday lighting can also help you create an ideally festive atmosphere in kids’ rooms. String lights are the key. The decorating experts at Martha Stewart Living love the idea of creating string-light Christmas trees using five strategically-placed adhesive hooks. “Felt star ornaments add to the twinkle effect and can be made using the template.” While white decorations are sure to delight, you and your kids can craft the felt ornaments using any color that makes you smile.  

    Create Unique Holiday Glass Candle-Holders

    Do you have pretty glassware that you can spare? Consider turning glasses, everything from whisky tumblers to chalices, into charming candle-holders by filling them with votives. If they are deep enough and solid, you may want to use votives with wicks that you can light. However, if they are placed in an area where they might be disturbed, you’ll want to use battery-operated votives. You’ll still have the beauty of the illumination but without the safety concerns. Midwest Living loves this idea and suggests taking this holiday decoration a step further by “[topping the glasses] with mini-wreaths, being sure to use non-flammable materials or to keep candle flames well away from fresh greens.” 

    Hang Glowing Topiary Lanterns

    Making them into stunning holiday lighting is a snap if you already have topiary lanterns. All you need to do is wrap your lights along the wire bands that form the lantern, securing them with staples or small adhesive hooks as you go. If you don’t have topiary lanterns, you can easily purchase frames at craft stores that can be wrapped with string or LED rope lights (and use twist-ties to secure them to the edges). The experts prefer the latter at Martha Stewart Living: “Rope lights, which look as if they’re filled with liquid beads, provide a smoother, more defined look than the standard string variety.” Want to go for some extra sparkle? The Magazine recommends wrapping tinsel in between the light bands and hanging these dazzling orbs from trees with thick, colorful ribbon (which will also help hide the cords). 

    Drape Crackle Ball Garland

    Crackle ball holiday lighting is trendy right now and with good reason! Not only do they add a sparkle in whatever space they appear, they also feature an eye-catching texture that sets them apart from traditional lanterns. It’s not surprising that Southern Living is raving about crackle ball garlands from West Elm. The Magazine loves the shimmering options and its affordable price tag. While the editors are making a plan to drape the garland along their stair rails, it also would look lovely sitting across fireplace mantels, as window treatments, and on porches (provided they can be secured against the elements). 

    Light a Mistletoe Chandelier

    Finally, if you want to add a sense of romance to your holiday lighting, and are up for a little DIY fun, consider creating a gorgeous mistletoe chandelier using the instructions from Martha Stewart Living. As the Magazine reveals: “Although it looks as though it has been cast from silver, the piece is made of faux mistletoe and dainty rice lights attached to a branch.” The look is refined and delicate, although by using the Hearth & Hand with Magnolia Faux Mistletoe, it’s sturdy enough to last throughout the holiday season and into the new year. It’s so lovely that you’ll want to put it up again next year!

  • New Year’s Crafts, Activities, and Recipes – Home, Hearth and Holidays with BHGRE®

    In the blink of an eye, it’s almost 2022! Ring in the new year with sparkling craft and décor ideas, activities and games people will have a blast playing, and of course, unforgettable recipes.

    New Year’s Décor and Crafts:

    • You’ll be set to celebrate with these easy New Year’s crafts. Make personalized party favorites like confetti poppers and place settings, then decorate your home with celebration accents.
    • Create a candle that will shine bright and sparkle all night. Take a glass vase and spray the bottom half with adhesive. Then, pour your favorite glitter onto a newspaper, turn the vase on its side and roll the part of the vase with glue on it in the glitter. Voila!
    • Click here for 8 brilliant New Year’s Eve decorations you will enjoy making.
    • Recycle old bottles and turn them into a centerpiece! Spray paint old wine bottles black and gold, and once they have dried, use glitter paint pens to add designs. You can also tie metallic ribbons around the necks of each bottle.
    • Your yard will look incredible with these DIY string-light planters.
    • Use gold sequin fabric as a table runner to give your table some flare.

    A+ New Year’s Activities:

    • All that glitters is gold. Here you can find everything you need to host a glittery New Year’s Eve cocktail party. Find ideas for dazzling decor, a satisfying holiday menu, even a DIY photo booth!
    • Here’s how you can celebrate New Year’s Eve at home as you ring in 2022.
    • Get your game on with these New Year’s Eve party games.
    • Try setting some feel-good resolutions to help you find joy while focusing on your physical and mental health. These mood-boosting New Year’s resolutions are worth checking out.
    • Make your very own photo booth! To construct your props, you’ll need scissors, heavy-weight cardstock, a glue gun, and either chopsticks or plain art sticks. Use the cardstock and cut out silly mustaches, talking bubbles to write funny sayings, silly glasses, and goofy hats. Then glue the end of a stick to each shape. Create a backdrop by hanging up a fun sheet or curtain and add metallic balloons or streamers to liven it up. Say cheese!
    • Take a card and write down your favorite five memories from 2021 or a few things you appreciated during the past year. Then write down five things you hope for in the coming year. Place your card in an envelope and read it on the last day of 2022.

    New Year, New Recipes:

    • Check out these finger-licking good finger food recipes. There are fancy flower-topped fruit pizzas as well as a variety of irresistible snacks and poppers.
    • Your friends will not want to dip after trying these 17 scrumptious and easy party dips.
    • Get ready for the ultimate dining experience. Here are several New Year’s Eve menus perfect for any shindig.

    • New Year’s Eve party recipes to help you celebrate and munch away until the clock strikes 12.
    • Make your favorite flavor of cake pops and let them cool. Then pipe “2-0-2-2” onto 4 of the cake balls using icing or chocolate. Roll the remaining cake pops in gold and black sprinkles for a festive feel.
    • This dark chocolate German cake will have your guests unable to put their forks down.
    • Decadent desserts are a must-have when ringing in the new year. Here are 38 delicious desserts, including cakes, creamy and rich truffles, cheesecakes, and even amazing confetti cookies.
    • We all enjoy different tastes and flavors, so create a sundae bar for your guests. Put out cute mason jars that your guests can fill up while making their way down the table, choosing which ice cream and toppings they want to layer in.
    • These toast-worthy New Year’s Eve cocktails will have you yelling cheers. ?

     

  • Easy, Crowd-Pleasing Vegan and Vegetarian Side Dishes – Home, Hearth and Holidays with BHGRE®

    Finding easy side dishes that appeal to carnivores, vegetarians, and vegans alike used to be a challenge, particularly during the holidays. Not anymore! Delicious, crowd-pleasing sides can be just minutes away. From crispy roasted mushrooms to mouthwatering rosemary-potato focaccia rolls, you’ll be amazed at the variety of options open to you. If you are planning holiday dinner menus, read on as we reveal the easy side dishes that are thrilling us this year.

    Crispy Roasted Mushrooms

    If you love rich mushrooms, a crispy roasted mushrooms dish should be at the top of your list of unique sides for your guests to sample. Real Simple raves about the beauty of this easy vegan side dish because “roasting the mushrooms brings out their deep, earthy flavors.” The recipe only requires 15 minutes of active prep, leaving plenty of time to focus on your other holiday dinner preparations.  

    Creamy Vegetarian Polenta

    Whether you are looking for something to replace the classic mashed potatoes side or something unique to supplement the other delicious vegetarian offerings at your table, consider cooking up a batch of tasty polenta. The editors at Martha Stewart Living are fans: “Whether you choose the soft and creamy version or the firmer, set rendition, polenta makes a wonderful side dish for hearty fall and winter meals.” You can make the polenta ahead of time and keep it warm over low heat or prepare it as you would your other sides. Either way, this easy side dish yields up to 24 servings that will bring a smile to the faces of your guests. And the good news is that this side dish can easily become a vegan favorite with two minor adjustments. 

    Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes

    Speaking of mashed potatoes, did you know that there is a simpler way to make the time-honored holiday dinner dish? The Instant Pot makes quick and delicious work of this vegetarian offering by essentially steaming the garlic cloves and Yukon Gold potatoes together before mashing. But there is a bonus to this method for busy hosts, which particularly excites the editors at Martha Stewart Living. What is it? The Magazine reveals: “Making this easy side dish in the multicooker frees up precious stovetop space at Thanksgiving.” Busy home chefs will applaud! 

     

    Easy Roasted Sweet Potatoes With Lime and Cilantro

    Vegan sweet potato side dishes are having a moment this holiday season. Perfectly sweetened following an October harvest, sweet potatoes are in their prime come Thanksgiving. You can take advantage of this popular root vegetable for all your holiday events. How does Real Simple like to update this seasonal side? The Magazine loves “[jazzing] up the roasted potatoes with lime zest and cilantro for a zingy twist.” This easy recipe has an active prep time of only 10 minutes, and it is ready to serve in under a half-hour. And while it serves eight guests as is, you’ll want to make more, even if it is just so that you can add it to your always-in-demand leftovers.  

    Brussels Sprouts with Cornbread Croutons

    Are you serving your vegetarian holiday meals Southern-style? If so, you’ll love Southern Living’s “Brussels Sprouts with Cornbread Croutons” side dish recipe. Considered one of their best yet, “this recipe … is as tasty as it is quick and easy.” The key to it is to buy the cornbread (or make it) ahead of time and allow it to sit cubed for a couple of days before your holiday dinner. Otherwise, it takes less than five minutes in active preparation, as most of the work is done by your oven. If you are nervous about browning the sprouts, Southern Living offers this helpful tip: “if it smells too strong, you’ve cooked it too long.”  

    Beet and Ricotta Salata Side Salad

    Decadent cheese, roasted beets, and a dash of red wine vinegar are just some of the elements that make this easy side dish among Real Simple’s favorites this holiday season. Plus, it is almost as eye-catchingly colorful as it is delicious. Requiring only 15 minutes in preparation, this vegetarian side can be served warm or at room temperature, and substitutions are a snap. Real Simple advises: “If you can’t find ricotta salata—a deliciously salty, crumbly cheese—use Feta or goat cheese instead.” There are also several tantalizingly good vegan kinds of cheese that you can use crafted from almonds, cashews, or tofu. 

    Oven-Roasted Asparagus Side Dish

    Oven-roasted asparagus is an easy side dish that looks like you spent hours on it when in reality, the total prep and cook time is actually less than 20 minutes. It also features one of those vegetables that everyone loves. Why is this one of Southern Living’s favorite side dish recipes? “Seasoned with classic ingredients like garlic and freshly ground black pepper, this tasty cuisine is bursting with flavor, yet simple and refined.” 

    Wild-Rice Stuffed Squash

    Martha Stewart Living’s “Wild-Rice Stuffed Squash” recipe is the perfect side dish – it’s colorful, hearty, and bursting with flavor. In fact, it is such a satisfying side dish, holiday buffet luncheon or dinner party guests might opt to have it as their main. The Magazine’s recipe features an acorn squash which “is roasted and then filled with a mixture of wild rice, pecans, and dried cherries.” Active preparation time is only 15 minutes, with the squash roasting for approximately 40. Would you love to turn this vegetarian recipe into an easy side dish that vegan guests can enjoy? Replace the butter with a vegan alternative (like Earth Balance), and you will have a delicious option that all of your guests can savor. 

    Bonus: Rosemary-Potato Focaccia Rolls

    If you have a little extra time on your hands, and you want to bring freshly baked vegan rolls as your holiday dinner offering, take a look at Food & Wine’s “Rosemary-Potato Focaccia Rolls” recipe. Inspired by Jessamyn Waldman, who varies her toppings depending on the season, this side dish recipe relies on thinly sliced red-skinned potatoes and fresh, chopped rosemary. The rise and proof stages of the recipe are the most time-intensive, but the actual process of creating “these airy and perfectly chewy rolls” is surprisingly quick and easy. As it stands, the recipe yields 12 rolls, but these are so good that you will want to make more just for yourself. We won’t tell!

  • Festive Outdoor Fall Party Ideas

    As the temperatures start to dip, the time to begin searching for fall party ideas arrives. From sampling treats around a bonfire to hosting outdoor football parties or chili bars, you’ll love planning outdoor activities with your friends and family this autumn. We are here to help you find your inspiration. Read on as we reveal some of our favorite fall party ideas to keep the outdoor fun going through the holidays.   

    Plan a Football Party

    Fall weekends were made for football. Whether you are a die-hard fan of a college team or a new convert to the excitement of an NFL Sunday, you can join your fellow fans for a custom backyard tailgate party. If your driveway allows for you to open your car’s hatch or lower a truck’s tailgate near the rest of the festivities, that’s a great way to stage some of your buffet. If not, no problem! Southern Living loves the idea of setting up a grab-and-go buffet that is close to your outdoor television or the screen where you are projecting the game. The Magazine recommends that you keep it simple for your fall party “by offering fun, filling small-bites—sliders, dips, various snacks (sweet and salty) that can be grabbed by the handful—or hearty chili in sturdy mugs.” Beer and a pitcher of themed cocktails are always a hit, but be sure to include plenty of non-alcoholic options.

    Schedule a Game Night

    Among the most popular fall party ideas is a game night under the stars. Southern Living recommends choosing something easy to start, such as “[ordering] an oversized Jenga set” and then personalizing it by “[breaking] out the spray paint” to create a “game with custom colors.” All-weather games, like a weather-resistant cornhole set, allow you to keep hosting family-friendly competitions in the backyard even after the snow starts to fall.

    Organize a Pumpkin Scavenger Hunt

    Do you still have a collection of mini pumpkins from Halloween? Better Homes & Gardens suggests organizing a pumpkin hunting contest. Whether the pumpkins are in their natural state or painted, this easy-to-manage fall party game will keep the kids guessing. As the Magazine explains, “tuck the minis away in trees, under tables, and all throughout your party site,” and let the hunt begin. 

    Host a Stargazing Party

    Are you interested in learning more about the night sky? Are your kids avid stargazers? Allison Carter, entertaining expert for Allison Carter Celebrates, tells Martha Stewart Living that one of the best ideas for an outdoor family party blends an educational element with a sense of adventure. Carter suggests to the Magazine that families “‘download a stargazing app and point it to the sky so kids can identify the different constellations and stars’” as a way of connecting with “‘this big, beautiful world.’”  

    Light a Fall Bonfire

    Remember the harvest bonfires you enjoyed when you were a kid? It’s time to bring back the tradition by planning a fabulous fall party around your firepit. For small outdoor parties, you can easily set up Adirondack chairs around the fire and drape them with cozy blankets for extra warmth. For larger gatherings or themed-harvest parties, Midwest Living applauds the idea of adding “blanket-topped hay bales [that] surround the flames and provide easy seats,” as well as crafting “recycled-sweater koozies [to] protect fingers from cold drinks.” Naturally, you’ll want to be sure to have all the ingredients for some truly decadent hot chocolate, mulled wine, and s’mores, in addition to all of your other fall party nibbles.

    Throw a Fall Food-Themed Event

    If you can lay a grill down over your firepit, you’ll want to gather your favorite fall food ideas and pick your favorites. For example, Midwest Living adores the idea of “warming up outdoor parties with a bubbling pot of fondue,” including a thoroughly indulgent beer-cheese option. The Magazine is also a fan of offering small bites (like hamburger sliders kept warm on a pizza stone), as well as something heartier like a “zesty chicken chili cooked in an iron kettle over the fire.” And, of course, those pizza ovens that were so popular in the spring and summer will win even more fans as the temperatures fall.

    If you love doing all the cooking when you host, go for it. But one of the most popular fall party ideas this year is to throw a cook-off. For example, you can host a chili bar that features different slow cooker or instant pot chili batches courtesy of each of your guests. Then, you can provide a plethora of possible toppings to make the most of each dish.

    Delight with a DIY Caramel Apple Bar

    Casual fall party plans are made sweeter when you surprise your guests with a DIY caramel apple bar. From young kids to those young-at-heart, this fall treat will bring a smile. The editors of Better Homes & Gardens “recommend adding chocolate, white chocolate, and butterscotch as variations to the traditional caramel” for your base, but the delights don’t stop there.  From candied pecans with a splash of bourbon for the adults to granola, pretzels, M&Ms, and nuts, you can’t go wrong by offering a variety of salt and sweet toppings.

    Raise a Toast to a Beer Tasting

    Taking inspiration from Oktoberfest, a celebratory beer-tasting party for your friends who are connoisseurs could be a big hit. While everyone will have their own ideas of what makes the best fall beer, you can set up a tasting in your backyard (or patio) to crown the winner. Plan a menu of German specialties to continue with the Oktoberfest inspiration (even after October has long passed), or pick your favorite food pairings for each brew. If you don’t have a full flight of beers in mind, consider choosing something from a local brewhouse that is new to you. For special events, you can even get commemorative beer steins or glasses made as party favors. It is bound to be the fall party idea that gets applause for years to come!