A Very Green Gift Guide Holiday 2012
Sponsored by Own Skin Health www.GirlAroundTown.net
Girl Around Town readers get free shipping and 40% off orders over $50.
Promo Code: GAT40off
Table of Contents 3............ Table of Contents 6................... Editors’ Note 8................... Contributors 9............................... Staff 10.................. Accessorize Around Town 12.................. Accessories 14.............Interview: David Peck 16..................Fun Fashion 3
Table of Contents 19...................Party Purses 20................Loungewear & Lingerie 22..........................Baubles 23....Meet Jewelry Designer Natalie Frigo 24........Interview: Neil Lane 26..................Going Green: Gifts for Her
4
Table of Contents 27................Going Green: 34...................Interview: Gifts for Him Omorovicza 28................Going Green: 36........................Sporty Gifts for Baby 37........................Dudes 30............Gadgets & Gifts 38..........Holiday Hosting 32.............................Kids 40.............Indaba Music 33.............................Pets Contest Instagram Pinterest Twitter
Follow us Videos
Newsletter Facebook
5
Editors’ Note Shopping becomes something completely
different during the holiday season than it is at any other time of the year. It’s not (ok, less) about me, me, me because the look on a loved one’s face (or super happy emoticons in a Thank You text) reminds us to take a breather from our To Do List and recall what the excessive wrapping paper and express delivery really signifies- that we care about our loved ones and we want to show it. If you share our passion for gift giving, you’ll enjoy flipping through this season’s shopping guide as much we enjoyed making it. In addition to featuring our favorite baubles, fashions and gadgets, this edition showcases gorgeous sustainable and responsible fashions. Check out eco style maven Greta Eagan’s picks for Him, Her and Baby, as well as our Q&As with some of our favorite designers and companies, who happen to be ethically responsible to boot! Don’t miss features on David Peck, Natalie Frigo and Budapest’s best export, Omorovicza. Among the many things we’re excited for this holiday season is our sponsorship with Own Skin Health. We’re very choosy about what we put on our faces and are beyond jazzed that there’s a new company making products that are natural, gentle and packed with the right ingredients for anti-aging, including a non-irritating alternative to Retinol. Whoo! Want to try Own for yourself? Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the skinny on our giveaways of Own’s goodies. (Insert double whoo here.) Oh, by the way: Don’t miss Steve Pacey’s original musical composition for “Breakfast at Mary & Leigh’s,” our fun branding video from last summer. Steve and five other honorable mentions distinguished themselves in the Indaba Music competition. Listen to all of them on page 40. Happy Holidays to all!
6
Until Spring--
Girl Around Town readers get free shipping and 40% off orders over $50.
Promo Code: GAT40off
Contributors Greta Eagan - Going Green An eco-stylist, sustainable living consultant and spokesperson, Greta is one of the first experts in the field to boast academic credentials with a Masters in International Management, specializing in Sustainable Fashion. Catch her eco-friendly tips and picks at FashionMeGreen.com. Lauren Mills - Party Purses Accountant by day, fashion blogger by night, Lauren chronicles her fun fashion finds and outfit ideas on Sunday Beach.
Jayme Lamm - Sporty Jayme is a freelance writer in Houston, treckking for travel pieces and putting on the full-court press in her hugely opinionated sports column, TheBlondeSide.com.
Lindsay Wolfington - Kids As a music supervisor, Lindsay has set the tone for hit TV shows like One Tree Hill and Ghost Whisperer- and somehow continues to do it all with two kids! Catch her parent POV on our Mom Around Town posts and check out her music picks at @LoneWolfLindsay. 8
Staff
Leigh Evans Co-Editor-In-Chief
Mary Cunningham Co-Editor-In-Chief
Diana Horwich Diller
Editor, Los Angeles
Emily Welsh Resident Chef
Sarah Talaat Layout Design
Karina Schroeder
Editor, New York Arts & Culture 9
Accessorize Around Town
We asked everyone we interviewed to tell us their favorite place to hang, and we’ve helped you plan what to wear at these haute hangouts.
What
Where
+
Houston
Hugo’s
1600 Westheimer
+
hugosrestaurant.net
+ +
New York
The Leadbelly 4 Orchard Street theleadbelly.com
Los Angeles
The Ivy
113 N. Robertson
theivyrestaurant.com
+ +
London
+ + 10
loulou’s
(Members only.) 2-5 Hertford St, Mayfair 5hertfordstreet. co.uk Budapest
Cafe Kor 1051 Budapest, Sas u. 17 cafekor.com
+ +
Wear
+
Who
+
=
David Peck
+
+
=
Natalie Frigo
+
+
=
Neil Lane
=
Margaret de Heinrich de Omorovicza
=
Margaret de Heinrich de Omorovicza
+ +
+ +
11
Accessories
Diane von Furstenberg Cable Knit Fingerless Gloves
Eugenia Kim
BHLDN
Genie by Eugenia Kim Lana
Bracken Clip
Madewell
The Weathered Wallet
Mossimo
Kate Spade
Lurex Infinity Scarf
Carousel Bangle
ModCloth
Gerbera Gal Jacket
12
Skirting the
Mango Bango Sew Psyched
Issue
Essie
Nail Polish
6 Shore Road
Gap
Reversible Faux Fur Vest
Tiny Star Scarf
Annabelle
Fur Pom Pom Hat
Kate Spade
Bow Tech Gloves
Burberry Barrel Bag in Check Jacquard
13
David Peck Paris-trained fashion designer David Peck has more than an eye for style and head for business; this craftsman is also committed to sustainability, which means better products for consumers and fewer byproducts for the environment. After training at Ecole Parsons Mary, David & Leigh à Paris, David worked for renowned fashion houses such as Paco Rabanne, Junichi Hakamaki, and Robert Normand, as well as Merril Dress as a style consultant and costume designer Having exchanged air kisses with David for several films. at fashion fêtes both in Houston and New York, we were delighted for a one-on-one With his operations based in Houston, chat with the designer, as well as some David has been on Girl Around Town’s playtime with his pretty pieces. radar for quite some time, and we fall in love easily, season after season, with every new GirlAT: While taking a peek at your collection Peck produces. His upscale David Spring/Summer 2013 collection during Peck Collection combines the refined New York Fashion Week this September, elegance of Parisian style with American you spoke about sustainability within your practicality, while CrOp by David Peck is a company. Tell us more about your ‘green’ fun and quirky clothing line with a philosophy and how you put that into conscience. CrOp stands for “creative practice. opportunities,” and each CrOp collection Peck: [When I talk about sustainable is done in collaboration with other creative fashion,] I think foremost of quality, professionals who value giving back. A creating pieces that are on trend now and portion of the profits of each CrOp garment can be kept in your closet for years. My sold will go directly to fund a cause that clothes are sustainable in that I strive to inspired the collection. create pieces that people will want to keep. In his new offices on Kirby Drive— conveniently located right by our offices….and above a go-to late night bar, The Owl—David has created a sustainable and responsible base of operations smack in the middle of haute Houston.
14
We also focus on responsibility, and see it as our responsibility to make wise decisions in terms of the materials we choose to work with and ensuring that we know where our materials come from.
We make small choices, like housing our factory in the United States, in the center of Houston, and donating our scraps to a local quilting circle instead of throwing them away. Since 100% sustainable fabrics aren’t always readily available, we choose to work with natural fabrics like silk and cotton. [Not only are these luxe fabrics that make beautiful garments], but they’re durable--they last--and take dies better. Fair trade fabrics we source from India are hand woven, using no electricity. We’re always going to create some amount of waste but we try to avoid it and seek things with integrity. As a society, we’ve started to assume that clothing should be ‘cheap,’ and some companies have done it well, but where is the value in a $20 top that you throw away after a season?
David’s Houston Studio
It’s clear that you put a lot of thought into your dresses, inside and out. In addition to your dedication to quality, each season brings new bold color combinations and whimsical patterns. How should shoppers approach your collection? Sometimes women get intimidated at how to wear and pair prints, so I create pieces that immediately make women look styled. For example the Myra dress looks like separates, but I did it as a one-piece dress so no one has to take the time to figure out if the patterns go together. And of course the pieces are available as Ema Top & separates also. Bennett Pant
More retailers and customers are looking for value in the pieces they carry or buy, and they see that we’re making quality products with true craftsmanship and construction. You place a high value on the construction of your pieces, why is that? It comes from my training in Paris. Working with the intricate needlework produced by French seamstresses and true construction elements, like boning, incorporated in garments influences how I create pieces now. Myra Dress
15
Fun Fashion
Merona
Chunky Glitter Belt
Anthropologie Athena Dress
Burberry
Gathered Skirt Trench
ASOS
Lace Blouse
J. Crew
Jean in Geometric Print
16
David Peck Micaela Dress
Free People
Vegan Leather Shift Dress
TBags Los Angeles Hi Lo Dress
ASOS
Peplum Frill Jacket
Elizabeth and James Long Sleeve Blazer
TOPSHOP
Cherry Twist Skater Dress
Parker
Sequin Dress
17
Shoes
Luxury Rebel Waverly Bootie
Sole Society Elsa Bootie
Cole Haan
Sabrina Loafer
Vera Wang Royce Bootie
Loeffler Randall
ZIGIgirl
Matilde Boot
Peacock Pump
Loeffler Randall Quinnie Flat
Reader Recommended! 18
We love this sock and tight combo from Bootights.com
Shoemint
Adrienne Heels
Party Purses by Lauren Mills
Kate Spade
Starlight Drive April Clutch
Banana Republic
Valentino
Scarlet Box Clutch
Lacca Bow Clutch
Overture Judith Leiber Danielle Faceted Clutch
Mary Nichols Handbags Downtown Corinthian Clutch
DVF
Tonda Eyelash-Sequin Clutch
Lauren Merkin
Louise Evening Bag
19
Loungewear & Lingerie
Lou Fee de Reves
Betsey Johnson
Demi Cup Bra
Eyelet Lace Balconette Bra
Cosabella
La Lilouche
Blondes (or Brunettes) Rock
La Lilouche
Anouk Silk Chiffon Playsuit
20
Dolce Underwire Bra
My Secret Luxury
Berkshire
“Let’s Spice It Up” Kit
Lace Garter Thigh High Panty Hose
Cosabella
Satin & Lace Robe
La Lilouche
Sophia Heart Silk Robe
La Lilouche
Florence Eye Mask
Moschino Lingerie Undershirt
21
Jane wears this ring!
Baubles
Kay Jewelers
Open Hearts Inspirations Diamond Ring by Jane Seymour
BaubleBar
Cluster Chandelier Earrings
Cayetano Legacy Teresita Necklace
Elaine Turner
Kate Spade
Jumbo Jewels Necklace
Giles and Brother
Jami
Mint Etta Earrings
Black & Brass Archer Bracelet
Kendra Scott
Black Onyx Tela Ring
22
Matte Bronze Metallic Python Wrap Bracelet
Stack the wrap bracelets with your watch for a super cute look.
Playing Cat Ring
Girl Around Town loves anything that makes a statement, and Natalie Frigo’s baubles certainly do. Here’s the scoop on this hot jewelry designer. In addition to being a brilliant designer, you’re also environmentally responsible. What does this mean for your creative and design processes? Each designer makes decisions limiting the materials we use. I strive to make big, bold and unique jewelry using ethically sourced metals and stones while staying at a reasonable price point. Every choice in materials becomes more complicated when using sustainable materials, but it’s worth it when a woman can trust that her designer is making thoughtful choices, and she feels good about what she is wearing while looking great. The movie Blood Diamond taught us 1.) that Leo can’t really pull off a South African accent, and 2.) the importance of conflict-free gems. You go one step further from “conflict-free”, to using “ethically sourced” stones. Can you tell us what the difference is? I hope Leo learned to avoid roles with foreign accents and to only buy jewelry that is ethically sourced! ‘Conflict-free’ means that money from the sale of a specific stone isn’t funding wars or the slave trade. Which is great! And a necessary place to start. ‘Ethically sourced’ materials signify that everyone involved in all steps of the process is treated humanely, earning a living wage and working in safe conditions, and that the local environment is also considered seriously. To me, conflict-free is about not doing wrong and ethically sourced (or ‘sustainable’) is about doing good.
Natalie Frigo We see a lot of large cats in your collection. Like, a lot. What draws you to the feline form most in jewelry design? What are other sources of inspiration? I describe the inspiration for my jewelry as Art Deco by way of Ancient Egyptians, Etruscan and Native American art. I am particularly enchanted by the very refined way in which these cultures depict nature in their jewelry. I try to carry this poetic technique into my work. And that certainly feeds into my feline interest. Big cats have inspired humans for thousands of years and I am no exception! I am fascinated by how graceful and athletic they are. Also, I have cats, and they are endlessly entertaining and inspiring. One of my cats loves to sleep on my desk when I work, so he’s the model for my ‘Playing Cat’ series. Thankfully, he was very reasonable when we negotiated his percentage of sales. For those of us who want to stand out at holiday parties, what is the perfect statement piece from your collection to rock this winter? My favorite color this season is red – go big and go red! It’s a powerful color that looks amazing on almost everyone. My newest collection uses enamel and is loaded with glamour. The colors are saturated and luxurious. To me the pieces look as if they’ve been dipped in a liquid gem stone.
Enameled Talon Bangle
Oval with Sapphire Slice
23
Neil Lane If a girl says she hasn’t dreamed about being proposed to with a Neil Lane ring, she’s lying. We are all googly-eyed over his drop dead gorgeous designs, and when Mary met him at a NYC event, she couldn’t help but gush. One meet and greet wasn’t enough though - we wanted more, and so we asked Neil to give us some details on his gems, jewels, and his favorite dish in LA.
What are your sources of inspiration? As a designer and collector, my life journey has always been focused on a deep appreciation of all things beautiful. I’ve always had a keen interest in found objects, jewelry and art, which was accentuated when I moved to Paris after college. There I developed an infatuation with intricate vintage pieces and a respect for old world craftsmanship. What is your favorite gem? I clearly love working with diamonds but don’t really have a favorite gem. I design with a variety of materials for different occasions. I also love working with pearls, as they are one of the oldest gems and have been highly regarded for their rarity, beauty and value. At one time pearls were used as a status symbol because only the wealthy were able to afford them. Other than the 4 Cs, what should we look for when making a big jewelry purchase? My best advice is for women to not rush the jewelry shopping process and to spend time considering the piece they want to buy. I always say, buy jewelry because you love it. 24
Mary & Neil Lane
Do you have a favorite piece from your new Kay collection? Kay Jewelers and I first partnered to launch a bridal line two years ago. This time, we wanted to collaborate to make a beautiful collection inspired by high-end, couture jewelry that’s available to all. Neil Lane Designs really brings glitter and glamour to America at an affordable price. The collection features a variety of necklaces, rings and earrings that reflect classic Hollywood glamour. I am really proud of this new collection and am particularly fond of the pear shaped pendant and earrings, which remind me of my mother’s ring. Pear Shaped Earrings
Pear Shaped Pendant
Is there such thing as wearing too many diamonds during the day? There is no such thing as too many diamonds; it just depends on how you wear them and incorporate them into your ensemble. Each person has their own style and comfort level when it comes to diamonds.
choice. I like to include a little handwritten note or drawing. I am a big fan of tulips, so a bunch of tulips wrapped up in simple brown paper is a favorite of mine.
Which celebrity would you love to accessorize on the red carpet, who you haven’t already (if there is one?!) Do you wear a timepiece or any items I have had the pleasure to work with some from your men’s collection, and, if so, of the world’s most beautiful and famous which is your favorite? women, from Madonna to Jennifer Lopez, I don’t wear much jewelry, I prefer to collect to Sofia Vergara and Angelina Jolie. I love and design it. I do wear a platinum chain working with them all! with a custom diamond detail for sentimental reasons. What jewel trends will we see on this season’s red carpets? What’s your favorite restaurant in LA, and Platinum and diamond jewelry was a huge what’s the best dish on the menu? trend at the Emmys this year and I expect The Ivy is one of my special restaurants in to see more throughout the awards season. Los Angeles. It’s close to my store, which Sofia Vergara wore more than 175 carats of makes it a favorite neighborhood lunch diamonds set in platinum from my collecspot. My favorite dish would have to be the tion to the Emmys. Long drop earrings are poached salmon. also a red carpet favorite, especially vintage inspired jewels with lots of detail. Favorite hotel to lay your head in New York? My favorite hotel in New York is The Four Seasons. I love the midtown location for its quiet elegance and subdued charm. I have stayed there so many times that it feels like my home away from home. I like feeling that way when I travel. And they can press a suit in five minutes flat! What is the best host or hostess gift to give and/or receive? Something personal is always a good
Sofia Vergara in Neil Lane Jewels
25
Going Green
by Greta Eagan
Gifts for Her
Designer Handbag
A classic handbag is a wonderful choice. Hare + Hart uses ethcially sourced leather of the highest quality from Argentina. They also treat it with vegtable dyes.
Stylish Topper
Make sure she stays “hot- headed� (in the best way!) with this ethically sourced and produced wool hat from Chinti & Parker.
Organic Parfum
Sexy Sleepwear
If you are unsure of her style and taste, perfume is the way to go. This scent from TSI~LA is seductive and subtle.
Gift giving is a time for indulgence, and this see-through babydoll from Between the Sheets is luxe and oh so lovely. Made in the garment district of NYC.
Statement Earrings
26
Every girl loves a special piece of jewelry to remember an event and to glam up her outfit. These art-deco style earrings from Dannijo are the perfect pair. Handcrafted in the USA.
Gifts for Him
Shaving Kit
Indulge him with this fragrance-free, organic men’s discovery kit from Melvita.
Knit Beanie
A sweet little stocking stuffer. Made by Nau from fair trade and traceable merino wool.
Long Johns
Down Jacket
Hook your man up with a pair of super comfy Isoara sweat pants, made in NYC from the finest Japanese fabrics.
A lightweight layer can make a huge difference in comfort as the temperatures fall. Timberland’s EarthKeepers Collection features 100% recycled nylon.
iPad Mini
Every guy needs a new gadget for the holiday season. Something to play games on, read their favorite magazines and even FaceTime with loved ones.
27
Going Green
by Greta Eagan
Gifts for Baby Star Booties
Let them know they are a star in your eyes with these organic cotton booties from the Gap.
Organic Footie
The perfect onesie gift for the new little one from Pure and Little. Stripes in both red and blue.
Organic Toys
Safe toys for the newest family addition to cuddle and chew on. Veggie set from Under the Nile Organics.
Yearly Ornament
Growing up my parents dedicated one ornament to each of their children. Such a sweet tradition, and you can start your own with these World of Good Alpaca penguin ornaments handcrafted in Peru.
Natural Products
28
A perfect newborn gift set from Erbaviva. Free from parabens, fragrances, and other toxic ingredients. Complete with Baby Washbags, Organic Baby Oil and Baby Soap.
Girl Around Town readers get free shipping and 40% off orders over $50.
Promo Code: GAT40off
Gadgets & Gifts
Polaroid
Crosley Cruiser
Digital Instant Print Camera
Portable Turntable
Kate Spade
Teroforma
Whisky Rocks
30
Scotty iPhone 4 Case Let’s Be Honest: We’ll rock some Rocks in vodka and white wine too.
MARC BY MARC JACOBS
‘Shorty the Boxer” Flash Drive
Reed & Barton Classic Piggy Bank
SweetWater Letterpress
Word Search Holiday Cards (DIY: Choose your own greeting.)
Lekue
C’Rush Ice Crusher
Corkcicle
Corkcicle Color
Penguin Classics
Emma by Jane Austen Clothcover
31
Kids
Valtech Co. Magna-Tiles
Melissa & Doug
Hasbro
Deluxe Standing Easel
Furby ...it’s back!
Disney’s Cinderella Three-Disc Diamond Edition
Smart Gear
The Elf on the Shelf
Bubblicious Balance Bike
PlaSmart PlasmaCar
32
A Christmas Tradition with Blue Eyed North Pole Pixie Elf
Pets
Funny Fur
Striped Sweater Hoodie
Pet Lounge Studios
D.O.G. Pet Boutique
Bambu Hammock I
Pink Piggy Crochet Toy
Meshidai
Double Raised Feeder
Funny Fur
Cozy Sherpa Dog Collars
Martha Stewart Pets Holiday Mouse Cat Toy
Puppy Playlist
Download vet-approved soothing sounds for Fido at musicformydog.com
Martha Stewart Pets Pink Fish Cat Bowl
33
Omorovicza With an ancient Hungarian tradition behind them, Omorovicza creates a natural skincare line that we’re crazy about. We caught up with Margaret de Heinrich de Omorovicza, one half of the founding couple, to find out more about the company (and her fabulous life).
What does the name Omorovicza represent and how did the company come to be? Omorovicza is part of Stephen’s family name: de Heinrich de Omorovicza. It’s the name of a small town in greater Hungary, which was granted to his family a few centuries ago by the Austro-Hungarian emperor. We love that facials are included in the shopping experience; how can readers set one up? Our facials are absolutely wonderful and we love to treat our customers to a traditional Hungarian facial massage using our products; it’s very easy to set one up as they take place regularly at all our US counters. Simply call the nearest Omorovicza counter or send an email to therapist@omorovicza.com and we will arrange it. Tell us about your Cinderella cream and why it’s like having a fairy godmother. The effects of our Gold Rescue Cream are nothing short of magical, especially in the cold winter months. I’m always amazed at 34
Margaret & Stephen de Heinrich de Omorovicza
how quickly my skin reacts to its rich, reparative formula. It is especially useful at this point [in the year], as over the summer I was in the sun quite a bit and my skin needs a bit of ‘rescuing.’ Lactic acid: what is it and why is it so beneficial? Lactic acid is a natural fruit acid, which provides mild exfoliation by decreasing cohesion of corneocytes [dead skin cells] and promotes cell renewal. Mary fell in love with your BB cream as soon as she tried it, can you tell us why it’s significant that Omorovicza’s doesn’t contain Silicon? Silicon is an ‘occlusive’ ingredient, meaning it doesn’t allow anything to come in or out. In other words, it’s like putting Saran wrap on your skin...not a very healthy thought. This can cause breakouts and have other, more serious adverse effects on the skin. What product should we start working into our winter skin care regimen? I would start incorporating either the Gold Rescue Cream or our Thermal Cleansing Balm.
What is it like working with your husband? I love working with Stephen because although we are quite different, we both have the same vision for the company (and for our lives as a family). It is very complimentary and lots of fun!
Stephen’s given me so many wonderful things, it’s difficult to choose just one, though a recent gift was the most amazing painting by Poliakoff.
What is your favorite winter accessory for holiday parties in cold temps? My favorite winter accessory would be Where are your favorite restaurants for a new pair of Altuzarra over the knee date night when you’re in Budapest and boots. London? In London we love heading to neighborhood spots in Notting Hill, like Osteria Basillico or the Electric Club. And if we want to hit the dance floor there is always Lou Lou’s in Mayfair. When in Budapest we always go to Café Fuji X100 Kor – it has been my favorite place for over 10 years now, and walking in and seeing old friends is always a pleasure. It is very much a locals’ spot, not many tourists, if at all. They have the best Hungarian food in town. What is the best gift each of you ever received? Stephen is an extremely talented photographer and the best gift he received from me was an amazing camera, the Fuji X100.
Composition, 1967 by Serge Poliakoff Altuzara Boots
35
Sporty
by Jayme Lamm
Nike
NFL True Love T-Shirt
Renegades Write the Rules by Amy Jo Martin
Lululemon
Wunder Under Crop Reversible
American Apparel Stripe Knee-High Sock
New Balance
1400 (SHAPE 2011 Shoe Award WInner)
Sorel
Snow Boot
Converse
Create your own in your fav team colors
36
Misty Aurora
Movember Mustache Earrings isn’t just for the guys. Celebrate with these ‘stach studs.
Dudes
Williams-Sonoma
Esquire
Monogrammed Steak Brand & Carving Board
Year Subscription
HomeWetBar
Shot Glass Checkers
TheTicketExperience.com Tickets to the events he really wants.
Brookstone
1080p HDMI Pocket Projector (Connects to smartphones & tablets)
Orvis
Nested Metal Cups
Sporting events, concerts & more. The Ticket Experience gets you the best seats in the house.
37
Holiday Hosting
Berco’s Popcorn
GirlAT flavor pick: Way Too Expensive White Truffle
Nespresso
Pixie + Frother
Sur La Table
Ugly Sweater Bottle Cover
Babycakes
Dairy-Free, Egg-Free, Soy-Free Cupcakes (They taste amazing!)
Nordic Ware
Accessorize: Make your icing look pretty with a Wilton Decorating Kit.
Holiday Cookie Stamps
Doughnuts puff to perfection with a doughnut pan. Also by Wilton. 38
Cupcakes: Makes about 18 Pumpkin 2 cups all-purpose flour Cupcakes 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon baking powder with 1 teaspoon coarse salt Vanilla 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground ginger Buttercream 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice 1 cup packed light-brown sugar 1 cup granulated sugar 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and cooled 4 large eggs, lightly beaten 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line cupcake pans with paper liners; set aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice; set aside. In a large bowl, whisk together, brown sugar, granulated sugar, butter, and eggs. Add dry ingredients, and whisk until smooth. Whisk in pumpkin puree. Divide batter evenly among liners, filling each about halfway. Bake until tops spring back when touched, about 20 to 25 minutes, rotating pans once if needed. Transfer to a Doughnuts: wire rack; let cool completely. Makes about 16 2 cups flour 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda Baked 1/2 teaspoon salt Apple Cider 2 teaspoons cinnamon Doughnuts 1 egg 2/3 cup brown sugar 1 cup apple butter 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Cinnamon Sugar Topping: 1/3 cup honey 1 cup sugar mixed with 1/3 cup apple cider 1-2 teaspoons cinnamon 3 tablespoons canola oil 3-4 tablespoons Preheat oven to 400°F, spray doughnut pans with nonfat PAM. melted butter In large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt & cinnamon. In another bowl, whisk together the remaining ingredients. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredient mixture and whisk until just blended. Don’t over-mix! Place batter into each doughnut mold until about 3/4 full. Bake for approximately 12 minutes and cool 3 minutes on wire rack. Brush doughnuts on both sides with melted butter *Cupcake & Buttercream recipe and coat with cinnamon-sugar mixture. 39 from MarthaStewart.com
Buttercream icing: 3 sticks unsalted butter, softened 3 3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar sifted 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Beat butter with a mixer on medium-high speed until pale and creamy, about 2 minutes. Reduce speed to medium. Add sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, beating after each addition, about 5 minutes. Add vanilla, and beat until buttercream is smooth.
Emily Welsh Shares Holiday Treats!
Indaba Music Video Contest
Maybe you remember, “Breakfast at Leigh and Mary’s”, the branding video we made earlier this year with the help of some VERY talented friends. We had a blast working with everyone and choosing all the elements, from wardrobe to music. When we told our pals at Indaba Music about it, we realized that their community of over 700,000 musicians would bring even more talent and creativity to our little film. So we put out the call for submissions and received nearly fifty original compositions. Somehow we narrowed it down to five stellar honorable mentions and one stand-out winner. Check out the winning composition by Steve Pacey, and the oh-so-close runners up. Thanks to everyone who participated!
Breakfast at Mary & Leigh’s by Patches aka Steve Pacey
Honorable Mentions: Domenico Pandolfo, E.SoX, AZOGHN, Joe an Rich, & Napstar Saint
PS! Indaba has created an amazing community for musicians to talk shop and showcase
their work for superstar artists and global brands. We encourage any musicians who want the skinny on how to get their scores and remixes heard by a community of peers, as well as 40 some big-time brands looking for new talent to check out IndabaMusic.com
Girl Around Town readers get free shipping and 40% off orders over $50.
Promo Code: GAT40off
Happy Holidays
www.GirlAroundTown.net