Valentine's Day Breakfast

Every year, at least once we are honored to receive a call from the KSFY morning show asking if we will put together an event with their corresponding show.  In the past we have talked Oscars, 4th of July and Spread the word.  This morning I got to chat up the holiday of LOVE! Nancy of Shawn and Nancy's morning show called last week to see if I was available.  I always say YES! I have a blast every time I appear on the show, plus it gives me the opportunity to show all of the early risers what kind of creativity we are capable of! The trickiest part of the show is you have one awkward shaped table and very limited amount of time to whip out the creation.  Oh and you have to be super quiet...if you know me, you know this is a challenge! I wanted to create a t able that anyone at home can recreate for their girlfriends or their kiddo's.  Every day that we wake up is an incredible miracle so why not celebrate it! Please note that these photos were all from my iPhone and don't judge!

Take a look at a few of the items we whipped up!

        

Wedding Wanderlust

Prague, Czech Republic is my absolute favorite city in the world. I love the culture of Prague; where East meets West, the beauty of cobblestone streets, European history lingers in the air, and having a glass of wine at noon is completely acceptable. There is something so special and beautifully unique about experiencing a world outside of our own…if you love traveling, why not bring the world to your wedding? Your guests can experience the world without jet-leg...well maybe...If you are filled with wanderlust like myself, add adventure to your wedding reception with cultural cuisines and traditions from your favorite places around the world.Your passport to a worldly wedding:

• Passport themed invitations. Create your own passport stamp with your name and wedding date.

•  Use a large map as a guest book. Have guests pin their name to the location they traveled from. Plus,  you can use it as wall decor!

• Exchange travel experiences by having guests write travel advice and tips from their favorite food, attractions, hotels, etc. on Popsicle sticks and drop them in a jar. Voila! Your next trip is already planned.

•  Use a large chalkboard to write "cheers" in different languages and place it near the bar. Guests will have a good laugh attempting to "cheers" in numerous languages. Prost! Kippis! Skål! Chok dee! Na zdravi! No roc! Cheers!

• Have a dinner buffet or appetizer bar with traditional cuisine from various countries. Place labels in front of each dish with the name and country.  On a safer side, try a dessert bar filled with kuchen from Germany, cannoli from Italy, strudel from Vienna, and macaroons from France. I’ll take one of each, please and thank you!

• Have fun with party favors. Start by browsing through World Market with your wedding planner and a notepad to gather creative ideas. Make a goodie bag filled with sweets from various countries, "____ & ____'s Love is So Sweet."

Guests will leave feeling like world travelers. Step aside Anthony Bourdain.

Eat Well, Travel Often.--Kaitlin Anne--

DIY Bridesmaid Survival Kit

DIY Bridesmaid Survival Kit

Try this DIY project for a cute and inexpensive gift for your bridesmaids. Stock up on these travel size items at Target and grab a pack of mints at the checkout line. Simple. Affordable. Voi la!

What you’ll need:

Mints, Tylenol, individual wet wipes, small Kleenex pack, Tide To Go stick, granola bar, tinted lip gloss or Chapstick, Band-Aids, and sandwich baggies. 

Use these printable templates to staple on baggie: http://100layercake.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/Party-Favor.mutedjeweltones.pdf OR http://100layercake.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/Party-Favor.Bridal-Survival-Kit.pdf

 Rest assured your bridal party will be free from stains and pains on your wedding day! 

Xo, 

Kaitlin Anne

Make 2013 Your year

January is coming to an end and many of our New Year’s resolutions are diminishing right before our eyes. For those of you who are still going to the gym everyday and sticking to your goals, Go You! As for me, I’ll stick to my yogapants/leggings/jeggings until I magically fit back into my skinny jeans. I swear I’ll start my health-kick when… when it gets closer to summer. For now, a sit up and a gut-belly-laugh is my workout plan. The purpose of this is not to encourage you to cancel your gym membership or put your goals on hold, but to try a few simple things that can uplift your life that do not involve calorie counting or side planks.

13 Ways to make 2013 YOUR year

1. Smile. Right now. You’re never fully dressed without a smile.2. Meet a friend for wine and actually DO it. None of this, “We should get drinks sometime,” business. It is an easy phone call.3. Give compliments and truly mean them.4. Have a “treat yourself day” every now and then. This includes but is not limited to: manicures, shopping, laughing, midday martinis, People Magazine, whatever suits your fancy!5. Try a new recipe from another country. Travel the world in your own kitchen by experimenting with recipes from Germany to Brazil. Ever tried African cuisine? http://allrecipes.com/recipes/world-cuisine/africa/main.aspx6. Buy your favorite bubble bath, body wash, or shampoo and don’t think twice about the price! Love every minute of your relaxing bath or shower and lather that hot body up! Add a facemask for bonus points.7. Listen to “My Girl” by the Temptations. Sing realllly loud.8. Go out for an over the top dinner filled with carbs, carbs, and more carbs. Order wine or beer...or wine and beer. Do laugh, cry, and love it up. Don’t regret the calories. Consider it a free pass night.9. Watch any movie with Leonardo DiCaprio. You cannot deny those good looks.10.Crunched for time? Tone up your buns with 6-minute butt blasting a with one click on YouTube.Butt blaster: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3YBnm2ZJNCM&feature=channel11. For one day, do not let a word of gossip slip from your mouth. “I can’t believe (fill in the blank) was such a …” NOPE! Stop the word vomit from spilling out. (Fill in the blank) is not worth creating negative energy in your life. Focus on positive thoughts and bettering yourself.12. Try a new hairstyle and wear bright bold lipstick. Maroon, fire engine red, hot pink.  Just do it, girl!13. Post inspirational quotes/song lyrics on the bathroom mirror, in your car, or on the fridge.All you need is love, love, love is all you need. – The BeatlesHappy New You,Kaitlin

S'more Love for Heather and Adam

Heather and Adam Willert tied the knot lakeside at Camp Lakodia on a beautiful October afternoon. They were surrounded by love from friends and family as they celebrated their special day. The love and energy radiating from the bride and groom was undeniably contagious. I am so blessed to have shared this day with Adam and Heather. Let me tell you, those two sure know how to have fun! They are a perfect pair and are absolutely stunning together. “Adam makes me laugh uncontrollably, makes me feel incredibly special and loved. He’s my rock; the one I turn to for everything and the reason why I want to wake up every morning and be the best person I can be. He is so supportive, loving, and caring.” – HeatherHeather’s vibrant personality was reflected through the themed reception décor. It was an elegant mix between “peacock” and rustic themed with paper lanterns and lights streaming over the reception hall. The center pieces were hand crafted with a variety of flowers, feathers, and twigs. Her face lit up when she saw the event hall and everything came together beautifully. Everyone was enjoying drinks, cupcakes, and dancing up a storm throughout the night.Each wedding guest received a "S'more Love!"  favor with graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate to take home. We love that idea!Raise your glass to an amazing couple whose love reminds us how special life can be when you share it with the one you love most.Xo,Kaitlin

5 Simple Ways to Show you Care

In the age of social media, sometimes real communication gets lost in Twitter and Facebook. I do absolutely love social media, but there is one thing that should stay in physical form, "thank you" notes. A truly meaningful “thank you” or “I miss you” should be expressed by more than a #hashtag or wall post. Your sincerity is not so sincere when the entire Facebook world is posting the same thing, “Miss you so much, let’s get together soon!” Sound familiar? How many of these posts do you see a day?I received a “thank you” from a friend the other day, and it was not in the form of a wall post or email. It was a time line of many of the heartfelt, hysterical, and frankly embarrassing moments we have shared throughout our friendship. It felt so good knowing that even though we hadn’t seen each other in months, our friendship was important to her. Whether your friends are near or far, keep the relationships alive with these simple creative ways to show appreciation. Don't text it, email it, post it, or #hashtag it, instead show how much you care by making your “thank you” or “I miss you” really stand out by adding a personal touch filled with old memories, humor, and baked goods. 5 Simple Ways to Show you Care1. Send a $5.00 gift card to a coffee shop to a friend you have not seen in awhile. “Thanks a latte for being such a great friend!” or something like “Coffee’s on me today, but next time let’s make sure we are together having a cup. I could use a good laugh. Miss you, dear friend!”2. Create a CD of all your favorite songs from a memory you shared together. Maybe it was the summer of 2009, a weekend spent at the lake, a road trip with your best friends for spring break, a girls vacation; whatever it might be, music brings the best memories back to life. Aww nostalgia…3. Create a list of meaningful reasons what makes this friend, lover, or family member so special to you. Send the list with a frame so they can be reminded every day what makes your relationship so unique.4. Cookies. Receiving a plate of warm cookies is always heavenly, how could anyone disagree… It shows you took the time out of your busy schedule to show you care. “Do you know you are one awesome cookie?” (Wink. Wink.)5. Send a package of small knick-knacks that remind you of that person with little notes attached to each item.Hopefully this gives you a few easy ways to show and tell your loved ones that you care. Be personal, and your "thank you" won't be forgotten like yesterday's wall post.Xo,Kaitlin

A Reason to W(h)ine

A Reason to W(h)ine  “Wine makes every meal an occasion, every table more elegant, every day more civilized.” – Andre SimonFall is creeping up faster than we have a chance say goodbye sangria season, but whoever said the fun has to stop after summer?! Hosting a wine tasting party is the perfect way to say au revoir to summer and bonjour to fall. With 10 vino options for under $15 and lots of cheese, your friends will be begging you to throw a party every week. InvitationsSet a date for your party and create invitations that scream, "Party time!" Your guests will counting down the days. I recommend keeping the guest list under 10 people. This way it will be more intimate and not overcrowded. If you wish to have guests contribute or make a donation to the very important cause of drinking wine, include this information on the invitation.The invitations pictured can be purchased online at: http://www.etsy.com/listing/95367466/wine-tasting-invitations-postcard?ref=tre-2722932364-6WINE. WINE. WINE.  “Wine is one of the most civilized things in the world and one of the most natural things of the world that has been brought to the greatest perfection, and it offers a greater range for enjoyment and appreciation than, possibly, any other purely sensory thing.” – Ernest HemingwayHere is a list of red and white wines to get your shopping list started:Red Wines

1.  2009 Lindeman’s Bin 40 Merlot
2. 2009 Morse Code Shiraz
3. Robert Mondavi Private Selection Meritage 2010
4. 2009 Esser Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon
5. 2008 Brancott South Island Pinot Noir

White Wines

1.  2011 Ecco Domani Moscato 2011
2. 2009 Brooks Amycas
3. Frisk Prickly Riesling 2011
4. 2011 Bandana Chardonnay-Torrontés
5. d'Arenberg The Stump Jump White 2010

If these don’t strike your fancy, ask an expert at a local wine shop for more options of the best buys at affordable costs.AppetizersPick foods that are bite size and easy to eat. Less the mess! Try antipasti kabobs, a cheese bar filled various cheese and crackers, fruit kabobs, and dark chocolate.Additional pairings can be found at : http://www.savory.tv/food-wine-pairing/Taste Wine like a (semi) ProStart by tasting the lightest white wines first and continue to the darkest red wines.Hold the glass only by the stem, since the heat of your hand will quickly warm the wine. This is a really easy one to forget...we are not drinking hot-cocoa, friends!Pour about 1 inch into a glass and note the color. Give the glass a good swirl for about 10 to 20 seconds, this allows oxygen into the wine. Take a deep sniff, continuing to do so as the wine settles in the glass. What is your first impression? Is the aroma strong or weak, what fruit flavors can you smell?Next, take a sip of the wine and move it around your mouth as if you are chewing it.Now consider what impression the wine is making. Is the palate weak or concentrated, what flavors can you detect and finally, does the wine make a strong impression or is it instantly forgotten after you swallow the remainder? Voilà, you’re a (semi) pro wine taster! Tasting NotesBy keeping wine tasting notes, you’ll be sure to remember what wine you absolutely can’t live without and which wines that made you cringe. Include the name of the wine, the aroma, color, flavor, and your overall evaluation. You’ll be happy you wrote it down after your third or fourth glass…Pre-party RemindersPut white wines on ice about 45 minutes before guests arrive so they are nicely chilled, and have napkins, utensils, and small plates in numerous places to help avoid any messy situations. You will also want water glasses for rinsing the mouth and cups for spitting in if necessary.Music is a must! Set the ambiance by playing a mix of Miles Davis, Norah Jones, Frank Sinatra, and throw in your favorites.Most importantly, do not stress out! This is supposed to be a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Hey, if you need a glass before your guests arrive, go right ahead! There is no better place to w(h)ine than enjoying a night filled with drinks, food, and great friends. ‘Tis the season for wine, let the tasting begin!Cheers,Kaitlin Christenson, Serendipitous Events Intern

Invitations, RSVP's and all the drama in between!

A blog for the Host and the Guest...An invitation sets the tone for any event! It tells your guests what to wear, what behavior to bring and gives all of the details! An invitation tells your guests if your event will be formal, or wild or perhaps lets them know if gifts are OK to bring or not!Always be sure to double and triple check your invites for all the correct information! Call the phone numbers, Google the addresses and check the spelling!Sending a pre stamped RSVP card will help you to get more RSVP's back than without the stamp, but lets get real people are horrible at sending back response cards! PEOPLE please get better about sending back your cards...Hosts need to know if you will attend! While on the topic of response/RSVP cards I would like to add a few notes! My soap box perhaps! :)1.  If an envelope is addressed to you and your spouse or guest do NOT think it is OK to bring your children, cats, dogs and imaginary friends2. This is not your wedding...do not judge someone for not wanting kids at their wedding or for not inviting every single cousin, 2nd cousin, relative or friend.3. Weddings have taken on many different forms than in recent history! Weddings are becoming more popular on Fridays and Sundays...Be hip, be cool, do whatever you want to do!There are couples who have gone to online RSVP's and even online invitations...Great if you are sure that your Grandmother and Grandfather have the internet and will have a clue what is going!

From Spa Night to Magic Mike: Bachelorette Party Entertainment

Planning an all-girls bash for the bride-to-be? Whether your plans are G-rated or G-stringed,  here’s some ideas-on-a-budget for the last fling before the ring!

 Affordable Male Dancer?  They cost more than just a stack of ones, & aren’t exactly easy to come by in Sioux Falls. So unless the Best Man is built like Channing Tatum, a stripper may not exactly make the budget. But no need to miss the eye-candy… these films feature male strippers at the cost of a movie rental!                                -Magic Mike (obviously!)                                -The Full Monty                                  -A Night in Heaven                                -Just Can’t Get Enough                                -The Chippendales Murder Road trip Without the Gas Prices?  The wedding day is tomorrow, & there’s no time or money to play out the female version of The Hangover in Vegas. No need to gamble with dream plans, you & the girls can still experience the perks of a wild getaway without having to rob the bank first! Book the nicest hotel room or cutest bed & breakfast in your hometown, then split the cost & share the keys! Take advantage of the room service, pool, hot tub, cable, & the in-hotel bar! You’ll even have a free breakfast before the bustle of the big day…no cooking required. Bar-hopping without the Cover Charge?Between the tab & the cab fare, a crazy night out on the town can do even crazier things to your credit card account. Time to unleash your inner bartender & experiment like a mad scientist! If each guest brings a bottle or two to share, there’s no limit to the drinking possibilities. & the perks of drinking at a girl’s night in? Lingerie drinking games! Have every girl buy & bring a pair of panties that matches her personality, then lay them out & have the bride guess who brought what! If she’s wrong…she has to take a shot, but if she’s right…the whole room takes a shot. Way more fun than walking home! Private Spa Session?A massage, facial, wax, & mani/pedi can really empty your purse these days!  & if your entourage is a spa-full, then one trip could empty the bank. The alternative: a DIY spa party! & the best part? This includes a beauty store shopping trip beforehand!  Consult your favorite magazines for pre-approved goodies : most health, fashion, & beauty publications give annual awards to the best beauty products chosen by readers or a professional beauty panel. Pinterest is also a great source for the latest nail, hair, & make-up trends. Happy Pampering!

This land was made for you and me!

Good Morning America! Serendipitous Events made a guest appearance on the ABC affiliate KSFY to celebrate America’s birthday! Chocolate-covered strawberries & sugar cones dipped in patriotic sprinkles, firecracker-inspired treats on skewers, & various glassware filled with borrowed-from-Christmas sparkly red décor joined together like the armed forces for a fun 4^th of July spread. Festive pinwheels & drinking straws displayed in mason jars brought an All-American feel to the table. Complete with red velvet cupcakes & letters to spell out the good old “U.S.A.”, what better way to celebrate Independence Day than with a little DIY fun?!!!Enjoy the photos and the fun of your day!Salud,Jessica