from Erin
As a military family we moved around constantly from North Carolina to Hawaii, from Hawaii to Okinawa, and then to our final destination of Virginia! Although changing homes and schools may have been difficult, we were thankful to move with other military families that we were very close to at each location. To this day, we have continued on the tradition to have Thanksgiving dinner with the other military families.
Our famous drink continues to be present at …
from Erin
Recently, brides have asked, “Do you know why I have to stand to the left of my fiancé?” Our honest response, “It has been the traditional way, but I’m not exactly sure why.”
It was time for a quick Google search!
The tradition stems from the groom needing to keep his right hand free in case he needed to defend his bride from any attackers. The groom’s right side was known as his sword arm and fighting hand. …
from Erin
All weddings consist of multiple family photos and can generally take up the full cocktail hour. If you are interested in speeding up the process, check out photographer Katelyn James’s way to help solve this issue.
Prior to the big day, she asks her brides and grooms to make three copies of a list of family members they would like in their family photos. One copy goes to a relative on the bride’s side; one copy goes …
from Erin
A bonfire is always perfect for the chilly outdoor weather. A gadget such as a fishing pole (shown in the picture) and oven-baked recipes have changed the traditional cooking of s’mores on tree branches.
For the s’more fanatics without a campfire, check out these 21 Spectacular S’more Recipes! The recipes include cakes, pies, and more!…
from Erin
This year marks the 25th anniversary for the Fredericksburg Area Wine Festival, which will return to Celebrate Virginia on October 11th & 12th. (The festival was originally scheduled for this weekend, but hurricane weather forced a postponement!) The festival will offer more than 100 varieties of Virginia’s wines for you to sample. This year will also feature a beer garden.
Additional entertainment will be present for all ages, including a barrel train ride and live music.
The theme …
(Photo courtesy of Evermine Occasions)
From Erin
Fall has fast approached—so what better way to slow down and enjoy it than with an Autumn Sangria!
According to Evermine Occasions, you can add some apple cider to red wine for the perfect fall flavor. Don’t forget to add real fruit to your glass, and top it off with a cinnamon spice sugar along the rim.
Pinot Noir & Apple Cider
Ingredients:
1 Bottle Pinot Noir
2 Cups Apple Cider
1 …
(photo courtesy thefarmersmarket.com)
From Erin
Improve the health and nutrition of your family by shopping at local farmers markets.
Farmer’s markets are available in downtown Fredericksburg, at the Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center, and on the Mary Washington Hospital of Stafford County. A wide variety of vendors are available at each market, including some of my personal favorites: Great Harvest Bread Co., Blenheim Organic Gardens, Orange County Roasters, and more!
Many benefits derive from the purchasing from local farmers markets such …
Solar-power Mason jar used as a light
from Erin
The Mason jar has come a long way since it was once used for canning foods such as jam and fruit. Many weddings, restaurants and designers have begun to use the Mason jar in a variety of ways, such as flower vases, candle holders, and hanging lights.
Recently on the property, a guest left behind a couple of Mason jars that are actually solar powered! The creativity of old items continues …