I've Moved!

HOLLA TO MY FAVORITE LADIES!

Takin' a mini break here from my blog-cation to announce to you something so exciting, something I've been working on the past few months and have been dying to share with you.

Drumroll, please.

ANNOUNCING: My brand-spankin' new site....

www.theaveragegirlsguide.com!

Not only do I absolutely lurrrrrvvveee the new site, I'm totally over-the-moon thrilled that I now have a navigation bar so you can way more easily access past posts and specific topics that interest you.

Now, a monster huge request.

Pretty, pretty, pretty please:

Update your RSS reader to http://feeds.feedburner.com/theaveragegirlsguide, re-follow me on Google Friend Connect (check the right side of the new site) and/or subscribe to my email (also on the right-hand side of the new column) so you can get your daily dose of TAGG!

I'm beyond grateful to those of you who have decided to follow me over the past nearly 11 months (eek, blogiversary is around the corner!) and I'd be so appreciative if you'd follow me there.

Plus, I'm going to have a few pretty awesome giveaways on the near horizon exclusive to followers.

PS: head to the new site to tell me how you like it!!!

Happy 2011!

Wishing all you wonderful women a happy, healthy, prosperous and... crazy fun year!

Hoping you'll spread the word about The Average Girl's Guide. Remember: it's not about being average -- because hell no you're not! -- it's just that you, me, we're all just typical, average gals who want to live our best lives. It's that easy. The goal here is to share with you fashion inspiration to kick your outfits up a notch; recipes and snack foods; deals and discounts (love to save on quality items!); and much more.

Email me or comment if there's something you want me to write about -- do you like seeing my outfits? new snack foods? if there something I'm not covering? I want to know!

Enjoy 1.1.11!! 

xo--Alyson

Yours Truly featured in Sun-Sentinel

Last week, I spoke to wonderful Sun-Sentinel reporter, Arlene Satchell, who was looking for locals who utilize social media to access serious deals during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. HELLO, that's me! Not only do I like to scout out the deals for myself, I love finding them for you gals! We're all about fashion, deals, food and fun... and deals are seriously important, right? Who wants to pay full price when you can get a faboo item for less?

So thrilled Arlene included me -- the average gal -- in the story! I included it below, and you can access the full story here.


Alyson Seligman, of Palm Beach Gardens, who runs The Average Girl's Guide blog has definitely noticed an uptick in retailers' use of Facebook and Twitter this year as they seek to reach their target demographics.


Seligman typically scours these social networking sites for deals she can post on her blog.

This year, in addition to pre-Black Friday and Black Friday deals and discounts, retailers are also posting holiday store hours on these sites, Seligman said.

For heavy social media users like Seligman, getting shopping deals through a platform like Facebook, where they already tend to look for other key information, is like having "one-stop access to every facet of your life."

Although not a fan of Black Friday brick-and-mortar shopping, Seligman, 30, is advising shoppers to research social networking sites for both in-store and online holiday deals.

More retailers than ever will be touting offers there.

"Social media is a smart way to do this and if a retailer isn't using it, they're missing the boat," Seligman said.

Win it: Stylish Jewelry, Fab Scarf

You've been waiting for it, you've been asking about it, and now here it is: OUR HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY! It's your chance to win stylish, delicious accessories from the uber-awesome H&M! Not familiar with this shop? It's sort of like Forever 21 on serious crack (is that comment socially inappropriate?! Hmm, I digress). H&M brings super stylish, quality to everyone and also has designer collaborations (Hello, Lanvin is coming this month!). They're expanding quickly in the U.S. but so far it's mostly along the east coast and just two in Florida. You want a piece of the action?

Here's the scoop:

Enter to win one of two prizes (just in time for the holidays, no less!). Here's your choices:

1. A jewelry smorgasbord ($26 value) featuring an oversized onyx and silver cocktail ring; a glitzy bracelet set in black tones with faux diamond bracelets and more (I bought this for me; LOVE, love for a night out or just two or three to shimmer up any outfit!); a rugged bracelet set in brown tones with leather studded bracelet, rope and more; and a faboo glamorous black headband that I'm so mad that I didn't get for me. It might be more elaborate than you're used to, but it looks gorgeous on and the black makes sure it's not over-the-top.
 

2. A bold, colorful scarf ($15 value) that goes with absolutely everything! Don't let the following description throw you off because I can't describe it as wonderfully as it looks: actually, ya know what? I'm not describing it because my almost description stinks! Check out the photo... wrapped up on the left and laid out on the right.  Funky yet totally awesome when tied up, right? With every color of the rainbow popping through, this would make a shlubby tee look instantly stylish. Wear this bad boy every day.

Here's how you win (required, just once):
Comment on this page, telling me which giveaway you want to win. Entries must be received by Sunday, Nov. 28 and the winner will be announced Tuesday, Nov. 30 on this post, on Facebook and on Twitter. If selected, you must reply within 72 hours, otherwise I'll be sadly forced to contact the next person.

Additional entries:
1. Fan Us On Facebook (one entry): "Like" The Average Girl's Guide on Facebook.

2. Tell your Facebook friends about TAGG (once daily): Tell your friends to check out the Facebook page of your fav new site for fashion, deals, food, fun and more by updating your status with mention of us. Write our name with the @ symbol before so it reads @TheAverageGirl'sGuide... do this because it will create a link so I'll see when you've done this. If it doesn't become a link, I won't know you're sending fb love my way (though I will appreciate it!).

3. Subscribe to this blog (one entry): just click "follow" along the right-hand column
 
4. Follow Us On Twitter (once): follow The Average Girl's Guide on Twitter and comment to this post to let us know.

5. Tweet about the contest (once daily): Tell your friends on Twitter about the contest. The tweet must include @avggirlsguide to qualify.
 

Well, that's the scoop on our giveaway! Easy enough to qualify and winning is so much fun!
--xo, The Average Gal

Quick Bites: Baked brie recipe

If you're entertaining this fall, get ready to add this to your arsenal! BAKED BRIE!

It's my go-to app dish, not only because it's super easy to make, but because people literally go crazy for it. Like, crazy! It's assumed I spent a good deal of time in the kitchen preparing yet it's a 10 minute prep and about a 15 minute cook time. Awesome, right?



inside of the baked brie



Ingredients

- 1 8 oz. round brie (though you can certainly buy the smaller one; just use less of the crescent roll)

- 1 (8-count) can crescent rolls

- preserves; I opt for raspberry

- 2 tsp. toasted sliced almonds (to toast just stick in the toaster oven or on the stove top for a few minutes; keep an eye on them so they don't burn!)

Directions
- Lay out on a greased cookie sheet the unrolled crescent roll in a rectangle and delicately push together any loose seams.
- Slice brie horizontally in half (best done when cold).
- Put the bottom half of the brie in the center of the flat crescent roll and cover with a layer of preserves and toasted almonds.
- Put the the top of the brie on and add another layer of preserves and almonds.

- Fold up the crescent roll around the brie and just patch as needed. You want to be sure none of the brie is exposed otherwise it could leak while cooking.

- Cook according to the crescent dough package, at about 350 degrees for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown.

*** For another variation, swap out the preserves, for 1 tsp. ground cinnamon, 1/4 cup raisins and the sliced almonds. YUM!

As you can see from the pic on the right, I have a dedicated "brie dish." I make this so much (and maybe people want it more?!) that some awesome friends D & E got this for me. Woohoo. Love.

ENJOY! 

Divine Deal: Vistaprint

Are you familiar with Vistaprint? It's this awesome web site where you can get almost anything personalized, designed and printed that you'd like, often at a huge savings. I recently ordered biz cards for my blog (very excited; plan on passing out to random gals I see out and about!), and now plan on ordering a few more promo items thanks to these super sweet... umm, I mean FREE deals! Keep reading...

Vistaprint is giving away many items away for free... calendars, t-shirts, totes and more. Check out the scoop here. If you're looking for cute, customizable return address labels, you can also score 140 of them for... FREE. Details.

Plus, LOVE this: mommy cards! Just because you're a mom doesn't mean you're not your own person. I'm sure at least twice a week you wish you had your contact information down instead of doing one of those "give me your contact info, here's my cell" dances with someone. For as little as $1.99, here's your chance to have your own fab identity!

Take advantage of this divine deal to start branding your business, yourself or even your family!

Now: Epcot Food & Wine Festival

What a great little vacay -- be it a girls weekend, or a trip for you and a loved one!

Now through November 14, Epcot in Orlando transforms into a food and wine lover’s paradise during this annual festival that grows increasingly popular each year. More than 270 chefs are on-hand to be sure you sample the best culinary eats from around the globe.

Featuring specialty food items, culinary events and live music, you can try more than 75 appetizer-sized portions from countries including Argentina, Chile, Poland, Belgium, South Korea, Puerto Rico, South Africa, United States and Spain. The booths are set up along the World Showcase Promenade, and portoins are $3 to $8 per serving. There's more than 300 international and domestic wines, and you can explore specialty marketplaces featuring regional foods, wines and beers.

Here, one person shares the top 10 new dishes at this year's Food & Wine Festival.

One-day tickets are reasonable at $79, and just $71.10 if you’re a AAA member. 

Divine Deal: Up to 70% off Enzo!

A total classic; just $29.48

Awesome shoe sale alert: Score Enzo Angiolini shoes for up to 70% off. Lots of stylish flats, fab heels for work and awesome boots, for under or around $50! The same you'd see at Nordstrom easily for $100+.


LOVE! Pair these with everything; $39.60



If you're in the hunt for some great new, quality and comfortable shoes, these are a total steal. I find that Enzo's run pretty true to size.

Check 'em out here: http://bit.ly/ayaPKi.

Kind of drooling over this pair of grey suede boots for $44 (reg. $159)!



Dresses, skirts, skinnies, oh my! $44.32



Fab Find: Creative necklaces

Maybe it's the blog, but with all this searching for deals, discounts and fab finds, I'm constantly craving something new. Since this average gal is currently sans a full-time job, I have to get creative.

Enter: Michael's. I went there to buy a few supplies for something that I'll be posting about soon but then stumbled into the jewelry section. Wow, awesome beads, necklaces and so much more for unbelievable prices. Though I wish I was, I'm not super crafty so the thought of creating jewelry seems a bit overwhelming. While I did walk out with a beginner's jewelry tool set and a few items I still have to get around to, I just had to share with you my new fab necklace... that requires no assembly! See the pic on the right. So cute. I'm currently wearing it daily, paired with either a diamond heart necklace or my Tiffany & Co. bow. Love layering multiple delicate necklaces for a classic, individual look.

The best part? The necklace was $2.50 and the "imagine" was just $2.50... plus it came with a set of five other sayings! How fab is that?! $5 for a cute new necklace! That's my kind of splurge... and one the hubs enjoys as well! I've gotten a few compliments on it; I just say thanks while giving a little laugh inside at my affordable creation. Go to Michael's, start browsing around and see what you can create for yourself.

TAGG tip: check out the Sunday paper for coupons before shopping at Michael's. They almost always have a coupon for at least 40% off one item. Pays for the price of the paper, which also includes lots more coupons you can utilize.

Savvy Style: Knee-High Boots

Fal gal and TAGG fan, Kelly, had a request that we just had to help her with. We're that nice! Keep on readin... and, do you have a question, fashion, relationship or anything? Ask away!

Q: Can the Average Girl's Guide help with some knee-high boots? Not the over the knee boots -- just to the knee. I'm trying to find the best quality for the best price. I'm walking a lot so something with a low heel or a wedge. And, something I can wear to school and wear out with a dress. There are so many buckles and things out there right now -- but I need something classic that will last a couple of years. That's a tall order I know. That's why I'm asking for help!

A: Kelly, happy to help! Here's eight options under $150 that are all classic styles (most have other color options, too). There's so many fun styles and different heights (love the bootie) but I resisted. I know you're hesitant with buckles and extras, however when done tactfully they are classic. They keep coming back and will be here for a few more seasons (all us average gals can't afford to throw out our boots every year!). Plus, they add a little something when transitioning from day to night.... which you're looking for. Also, if you're concerned about less expensive brands, I have a pair of grey Target mini-wedge boots from two seasons ago that are still super comfy. Just see what works for you!

Here's seven options. See below for the costs, and click click on your favorite boot to see more details.

Top row
Madden Girl, $59.95
Steve Madden, $148.28 (on sale)
Mossimo Supply Co., $49.99 (Target brand shoes are BOGO 1/2 off online through Oct. 2!!)
McNeff, $140

Bottom row
Charles by Charles David, $174.95
Merona, $29.99 (i.e. Target)
ASOS, $101.10

Fab Find: Support Breast Cancer Awareness!

Happy October! It's officially Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which means get ready to see an onslaught of gorgeous, useful and all-around wonderful pink items with at least part of the proceeds benefiting breast cancer awareness and research.

Be honest: you (like most women) don't refresh your make-up supplies as often as you should. Now, make-up artist extraordinaire, Sonia Kashuk has given you a good reason to. Since Target is just about one of the best stores on earth, had to share with you these pink products from thislovely lady. She's brought high quality to the masses, and we adore her for it. Fifteen percent of the proceeds from these items go to charity. And remember, almost all Target's online purchases of $50 or more qualify for free shipping. At Target, that's dangerously easy, right? Shop, and feel good about it!

"Circle Around a Cause" 6-piece brush set
$19.99

Brush Up on Pink 4-piece purse set (love the bag!)
$12.99

"Pretty in Pink" eye palette
$12.99

"Lend a Hand" 3-pack nail polish set
$9.99

5 Must Haves: Katherine Lande

The Average Girl's Guide is starting a new regular series called 5 Must Haves featuring gals around the country sharing their 5 must haves... the question is, what's the topic? Tune in each week to find out.

Katherine Lande:
5 Must Haves... for a stylish girl on the go!

You think you have an eye for fashion? Meet Katherine. As Fashion & Style Director for Palm Beach Media Group, she creates all things visual at Palm Beach Illustrated, Naples Illustrated and Weddings Illustrated. Cover design, fashion spreads, you name it. And, they're jaw-dropping.

 

She constantly has her pulse on the hottest trends and loves to explore rare and unique vintage fashion, jewelry and antiques.  She also has a totally worth-reading blog Les Luxes where she writes about luxuries, both big and small. She's an in-the-know fashionista; you want to hear what she has to say. Trust me.

Here's her five must-haves for a stylish gal on the go (who wants to go shopping?!):

Layer it up

I get chilly easily so I always carry a lightweight scarf with me wherever I go. This one from Calypso has a pop of army green, which I'm obsessing over for fall. Its easy to carry around and appropriate with all my looks whether its a day in the office, store browsing on Worth Ave., or location scouting for a photo shoot. Be sure to look for a lightweight fabric that will transition well from indoors-to-out and season-to-season.

G1 scarf, Calypso St. Barth, $95
calypso-celle.com


Go Bold

This fall it’s all about a bold lip, definitely a fun change for me. I’ve been inspired by all the fashionistas I saw during New York Fashion Week and the styling of J. Crew's fall catalog. The stylist for J. Crew used Nars Funny Face, a fave of president and creative exec director Jenna Lyons, but I've found that Make Up For Ever Rouge Artist Intense 36 offers the right look as well. Be sure to keep the rest of your face simple, which is perfect for those days I'm running a bit behind. And since it’s the main beauty product for the entire day, less to touch up and lug around.

Nars lipstick in Funny Face, $24 and Make Up For Ever lipstick in Rouge Artist Intense 36, $19



Safety First

Being a constant girl on-the-go, I'm never disconnected from my Blackberry. On days when I’m on location shooting fashion editorials I have a tendency to drop and misplace it constantly. A chic leather case from Kate Spade keeps my Blackberry safe no matter if it's floating around in my handbag or lying amongst my styling supplies. This stylish must-have item also makes for a perfect gift; what girl wouldn't want one more luxe accessory?

Blackberry pouch, Kate Spade, $25, katespade.com
{TAGG tips: 1. for your iPhone carriers like this gal, check out Kate's gorgeous version, $40; 2. free shipping on all ground orders, thanks Kate! and 3. sign up for their mailing list on the homepage and get 15% off your first order).


Statement Making

I'm a lover of shoes, statement shoes at that, but constantly running around I need something that can take wear & tear. This season a very trend-on short boot will be just the thing. I’m envisioning wearing this Joie ankle boot with just about everything in my wardrobe, which makes getting dressed that much easier and quicker. By day I’ll pair them up with my favorite skinny jeans, and by night will rock them out with a structured dress or something embellished with fur or sequins for a chic rough-luxe look. Because the boot is short I can play around with adding a sock or tight if there’s a chill in the air. One good ankle boot = endless quick and easy looks.

Joie Santo strappy ankle bootie, $425, bergdorfgoodman.com
{TAGG tip: Can't afford the real thing, or want to test the trend for less? Check out this pair from Aldo or this one from Target!}



Freshen Up
When I’m feeling tired or have very little time to go from work to an evening of events, I turn to Mario Badescu’s Rosewater Facial Spray for a fresh pick me up. It’s beautifully fragrant and formulated with herbal extracts that give your skin an instant boost and added hydration. It can also be used to spray on dry hair, an added bonus when you only have a few minutes to freshen up. Also perfect for keeping your skin hydrated when flying. Highly used during the social season.

Facial spray with aloe, herbs and rosewater, Mario Badescu, 4oz: $7, mariobadescu.com

Divine Deal: Jasmere

Jasmere, a site that helps you save on specialty retailers, has today home-made caramels for just $8 (reg. $22) from a company that funds cancer research. A tasty good deal. For you? A gift? We likey.

Plus, new deals are posted almost daily. A friend got (at a huge discount) what she considers the best cookies she ever tasted from NYC-based This Chick Bakes, thanks to this site. I'm jealous. Now, I need some caramels!

Register/check it out here: http://bit.ly/9vXkh5.

Divine Deals: Get your Groupon

Are you affiliated with Groupon, the web site that gets you up to 90% off deals in your city, be it restaurants, shopping, fun and games, you name it? It's awesome and growing quickly in cities around the country. Best to get on this train now. My bro in Chicago buys at least one Groupon deal a week and being in South Florida, I've bought a few (it's growing here).

Today, check out this deal:
- Get a subscription to Florida Travel + Life for just $5 (reg. $12)! It's for the Ft. Lauderdale groupon but regardless of where you live you can score this deal. Great magazine to see what's happening around the state --and where we can get a mini getaway -- and also great as a gift to a friend or relative.

New to Groupon? Click here. Already a member and want get today's mag deal, click here!

Savvy Shopping: Hot Black Heels

Black heels are a serious wardrobe staple. In fact, this average gal has at least a dozen types that as I tell the hubs, are totally, 100 percent necessary. Open v. closed toes, different heel heights, gladiator, mary janes, lacey detailing, you name it. I need them all... and am hungry for more!

Enter my Fall inspiration: Michael Kors suede pumps. 

How fabulous are these? Can the back detailing with the zipper be any more glorious? Plus, the wedge is way more comfortable than a heel of this height. You'll wear this with everything, all season long... and be the hottest ticket in town. Also love these in the other shades: purple, grey and tan. ($150).


For those looking for a less expensive alternative, here's a few options:

Adore these Merona suede wedges from Target for a teeny-tiny fraction of the price ($30). Granted, there's no zipper, but that will make these last a few more seasons since they're less trendy. These also come in plum, taupe, bordeaux, brown and grey. Totally wearing these with everything, from work skirts to jeans and my new green cargo pants. Nothing is off-limits here.
TAGG TIP: Target's shoes are BOGO 1/2 off through Oct. 2. Yes, GREAT DEAL. Tempted to buy these in black and plum (or, maybe mix and match with a pair of camel brown ankle booties, or grey boots, or...)!

Can't resist the zipper?

Check out these options. First, we have a black peep-toe, zipper-detail in the front and back, cut-out platform heel with slight gladiator feel from Madden Girl from Steve Madden that's totally hot without looking totally uncomfortable. Score! And, less than $60 to boot. Adore.

Next, we go full-on bootie with this hot number from Urban Outfitters that can be added to absolutely anything: skirts, skinny jeans, a dress with belted cardigan, you name it. Instant style for just $58.

And, check out these obsession-worthy heels from Forever21. Platform, peep-toe, crazy-high heels with a back-detail zipper and contrast colors that's to-do for. And, just $27.80? Might not be the most comfortable shoes in your closet, but they'll certainly be among the hottest! I can only work so many miracles...

This is just the beginning!

The options are limitless when it comes to fashionable heels. Find a rockin' pair and live in them all year long. Look forward to seeing you out on the town! xo



Fab Find: Sprout Watches

As I've mentioned before, I have a slightly large watch addiction. I flat out love them. I have a compulsive need to always know the time, so I might as well look fashionable doing it.

My latest discovery? Sprout watches, which feature an organic cotton strap. Saw one while flipping through the latest Nordstrom catalog and I had to learn more. They're rugged and durable, yet totally stylish and practical. Available in a ton of color combinations at stores from Nordstrom to Target and Sears -- the eco-friendly watches are light-weight and feature a natural bamboo dial. For just under $30, these are a total fashionista steal! Sprout's also have smaller face sizes than the one to the right, but I'm partial to the larger one.

Color combinations range across the board, from this brown and blue hikers dream (and mine; the military green look is so fall 2010) to black, khaki, hot pink, red, light blue, navy and more. Check them out at your fav store: Target, Sears or Nordstrom. Sears right now has a few as low as $23.99!

Happy shopping! 

Now: Healthy Tips for Fall

Happy Monday! With it practically Fall (I just painted my nails dark navy blue, so it must be!), now is the time to find smart ways to stay healthy all-season long.

To preface: Before sharing weight maintenance or weight loss advice -- whichever you're seeking -- you should know that I'm a proud Weight Watchers lifetime member. I lost 35 lbs about seven years ago! I'm currently a bit higher than my goal, but it's hopefully temporary (due to some meds). I'll get back; we've all been there before, right? We're just all average gals wanting to look and feel our best!

Here's tips that I am confident will make a real difference:

 1. Don't drink your calories. Always my #1! Yes, you can have a glass a wine, a light beer, a cocktail, etc., but if you're really serious about dropping some lbs the easiest thing to do is to limit alcohol and wine and stick to water and other calorie-free options. While h20 is always best, feel free to opt for diet teas, lemonades and a soda here and there if it helps keep your cravings at bay and keeps you full. If you are going to have a glass though, you better damn well enjoy it! Just know that one 120 cal. serving is not the size of your x-large wine glass!

2. Be honest with yourself. See #1 about your oversized wine glass. You're not foolin' anyone, missy.

3. Count the BLTs: bites, licks and tastes. This is a Weight Watcher mantra that's so true. Just because you're only having a few bites, or a handful of french fries or onion rings from your partner's plate, doesn't mean it doesn't count (unfortunately!). Sorry. Truth hurts, I know.

4. If you can't control yourself, don't take even just one bite. I don't know about you, but I sometimes lack self control, especially around food. If I'm at a party, for example, and there's something decadent, I won't take a bite if I'm watching myself because once I know how good it is I'll want more. This way I can almost trick my brain into thinking it's not worth it. If you're not good at having just one bite, try it, it works.

4. Quantity eater? Me too. Find things to satiate you or keep you occupied. Feel like you need to munch on something while watching TV? Make a bag of 94% fat free kettle or butter popcorn -- my fav; eat an apple (love!), frozen grapes (just stick your grapes in the freezer for a while; so good), blueberries and others fruits; carrot sticks with hummus; or just chew gum to occupy your mouth (I dig the flavored kinds like Trident Tropical Twist).

5. Use a smaller plate. I'll be honest: I like seconds. I don't care if I had the most enormous first portion you've ever seen or one bite. I'll want seconds of pasta, cereal, veggies, anything! To curb my calorie intake, I often use our salad plates for my entree. It's all about the illusion; you're going to pack your plate regardless of the size. Plus, if you want seconds you can go for it, guilt-free!

6. Find exercise you love.  Don't love going to the gym? Don't! Take advantage of some cooling temperatures and go for a fast walk with friends. I got into running by going for walks, which turned into runs, with my roomie and a few other friends while living in Tampa years back. It was our time to gossip and to catch up without other distractions. So fun. It NEVER felt like exercise. Not for you? Try biking, pilates, yoga, or better yet... dance around your room like a crazy lady (we've all been there, don't hate!).


Me, enjoying a crepe in Paris!



7. Most importantly, enjoy what you eat! I totally believe in splurging, in weight 5 pounds more than I'd ideally love to because well, I love food and want to enjoy myself. What's the point of being a stick if you're miserable, right? Right! Just save your calories and fat for things you really enjoy, not mindless eating and drinking when you're not even really appreciating it. 

And worse case? Remember... it's just one meal! Don't give up or get mad at yourself. While all us gals joke about it, one meal really isn't going to add cellulite to our tush. It's about a lifestyle, not a diet.

Now, go forth, eat and conquer!

Quick Bites: Clever Cookies

Want to make the perfect cookies? No stress!

Use the recipe on the Toll House bag (it's a classic for a reason!) and then add your own touches, like dried cherries, peanut butter chips or coconut. Whatever you -- or the peeps you're giving it to -- likes. For reference, I like peanut butter. Just sayin'.

Yum!!

Divine Deal: Restaurant.com just $1!

WOW! What are you waiting for? Restaurant.com is offering up a phenomenal 90 whopping percent off $25 gift certificates to tons of fantastic restaurants. That's $1 people! Just use the code WOW at check-out. Believe it's been at least a year since they've offered this promotion.

While some places have restrictions, who cares?! You're saving $24 each time you dine! Totally worth stocking up, or giving these as gifts to friends and family. Give this as a gift for no-reason to a girlfriend who's been super sweet lately or your gram for just being her. Remember, it's nationwide!

Head to restaurant.com now! You'll be glad you did.

Now: Take a Better Photo

Woohoo, it's Friday! With the weekend on the horizon, you know there's going to be plenty of 'kodak-worthy' moments during football viewing parties, nights out on the town and fabulous dinners with even more fabulous friends. So, it's critical that you have the skills to take a great photo.

We were fortunate enough to sit down with of one heck of a talented photographer, Lauren Lieberman of Palm Beach-based LILA PHOTO. She's been shooting for 10 years, starting while at UF with a company called Flash where she captured fraternity and sorority parties. She quickly honed her skills with a high-end wedding photographer and then opened her own biz where she regularly covers events from polo and galas to corporate needs and moments requiring aerial photography (hang out of a heli, anyone?). Most importantly, her work is just plain awe-some.

So, you want to take a better photo?? Here's what she has to say:

Perspective: Did you  know most photos are taken from 5'6" tall and 10 feet away? Bor-ing! Lauren's just 4'10" so she's become accustomed to taking shots from different angles and perspectives, and you should too. Here's a few tips:

• Get on the floor with kids or stand with the camera straight above them (prefocus so you're ready when they look up; we'll get to what this means in a second).
• Climb up on a bar stool to get a crowd shot instead of just being at eye level.
• Slightly tilt the camera for a fun angle on what's happening.

Prefocus: if you're always a second late catching photos (esp. of the kiddies or a pet), listen up! While the best shots typically don't have the subject right in the center, that's where the sensor is on most cameras so you have to start there. Point the center of your camera toward your subject, then hold the button just half way down. Once that happens, you can move your camera to recompose the shot how you want, waiting for the mili-second when your child gives you that mega-watt smile or silly face! When moving the camera, consider this:

• Rule of thirds: think of the camera frame in thirds; instead of keeping the subject in the center experiment with how you fill each of the frames. Don't be afraid to go off-center.
• Fill the frame: play around with getting super close up to really capture someones face. It's incredible the difference compared to when you're a few feet away.

Example of "Fill Flash."
Brandon (polo player) and Erica Phillips with
Kourtney Kardashian and Scott Disick



Flash: "Turn OFF the flash and find the light!" If there's daylight, direct your subjects toward the window or any natural light. You should stand against the window/light with the subject nearby to get the natural light. It gives everyone such a gorgeous glow!

• BUT (isn't there always a BUT?): Turn ON the flash when you least expect to. Called "fill flash," turn your flash on to balance the brightness of the outside background and to light your subjects if they're in the shade. If you use the 'auto' function it might not use the flash so your picture will be dark. Turn that bad boy on so you get a better photo!

ZOOM: When taking fun, social photos take a few steps back (just a few; not too far) and then slightly zoom in. Notice that cameras have optical and digital zooms. The optical is the one that matters, the digital one just magnifies the images (that's why they get blurry). Don't use that!



And, this is a little nerdy/techy, but here's one fabulous tip for taking close-up pictures of small objects that I just had to share:

Macro button: all cameras are a little different, but my Canon has the macro button just opposite the flash. Go to this mode to take crazy good photos of really small objects like flowers and anything you see (just not people)! Fill the frame with these interesting elements and remember to move the camera around to get different perspectives. This macro function will focus on your object and slightly blur everything in the background... just like a professional photographer!

Thanks again to Lauren Lieberman for teaching us how to wow 'em with our photo taking skills! Now, get out there and get clicking!

-- all photo credits: LILA PHOTO