Event Music Mixes : Independent Rock Dance Mix

THE BEST MUSIC YOU HAVE NEVER DANCED TO AT A WEDDING: 

 

I have rearranged this mix 100 times and it really doesn't matter what order you play it in. It's just plain good.

On a more practical note: This runs about 2 hours, so it works perfectly for that ever important 10 - 12 slot in the wedding schedule. 

Happy dancing, cool kids!

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Weddings: Kelly and Matt Get Married!

KELLY AND MATT HAVE A SMALL, SIMPLE, OUTDOOR WEDDING!

Kelly and Matt had a very pretty, simple wedding in Denver. I really love the way they let the day have a life of it's own.

Sometimes keeping a loose grip on the reigns yields the best and most surprising results. They had small group of 8 and they encountered a mid-ceremony rainstorm that gave way to a rainbow! You can't plan this stuff.


I'm gonna let Kelly narrate this one: Her summary of their super cool, intimate wedding is just perfect!

All pictures are by Libby Holmes Photography of Denver, CO.

Kelly and Matt!

"Matt and I had a very elegant, honest, simple wedding.

Our goal was a ceremony that prioritized US and enabled us to be mentally/emotionally Present!
I didn't want to have to think about anyone other than us.... once the door opens to honoring others' expectations, it's no longer OUR wedding. And if it's not 'ours', what's the point?!"

"We sent out announcement cards to friends and family a few weeks before the ceremony and asked everyone to participate "in their own unique way" on our special day."

"We had loved ones in Australia, Kenya, England, Turkey, Spain, Switzerland, Los Angeles, Washington DC, Portland, Santa Fe, Athens... all over the world!... toasting, feasting, paddle boarding, going to concerts, attending art shows, hiking the Camino de Santiago- all as a way to honor the magic wherever they happened to be."

"We'd planned to all ride our bikes down to this incredible wastewater treatment plant that's now an urban reclamation site and preserve along the Platte River, but the weather was iffy so we drove my vintage Mustang instead - win/win!"

"Greg played a KIZZ song on my Mom's vintage ukelele and Jenn wrote/read a dedication. Maureen made bouquets from the flowers that Matt and I grew in our yard."

"Roger led an incredible heartfelt ceremony - we stood in the park, then it clouded over, then rained so we scooted shoulder-to-shoulder under a concrete overhang, then the rain subsided and a brilliant rainbow appeared!"

"The ceremony was built by our friends! We had no idea what anyone was going to do or say or play.... and this unknown aspect made it so incredibly real!"

"Afterward, the 3 couples went to a Mexican restaurant in our neighborhood Matt and I had gone there on our first date, and the food/patio are Awesome!"

"I made our small wedding cake that Matt and I shared with my parents when they came to town the next day-we grilled home-grown vegetables, told them about the ceremony, and packed for our trip to Spain the next day."

"Our attendees were:
Minister Roger Teal, me and Matt, neighbors Greg and Maureen, and friends Jenn and MJ + Libby the photographer.

It was just the 8 of us total."

Thanks again, Kelly, for sharing all the details of this lovely day!!

Did you have a wedding you would like to share?  

Contact us at thekitchenkc@gmail.com or on our Facebook page.

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DIY: Valentines Day Meal - Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Valdeon Butter

 

 

GRILLED BEEF TENDERLOIN WITH VALDEON BLUE CHEESE BUTTER

Want to really impress your date?  Trim and grill a beef tenderloin!  It's easier than it sounds and has a real "WOW" factor!

Serve it up with some creamy mashed potatoes and french green beans and it's down right elegant!

If both trimming AND grilling the tenderloin seem like more than you want to take on, (or if it's just too darn cold for you to go out to grill), you can also get the same awesome result if you roast the tenderloin. I will include instructions on how to both grill and roast below!

* Buying a tenderloin can be an investment. I usually buy mine at Costco, which sells them in cryovac for about $11 per pound. Generally, each tenderloin is between 5-8 pounds. You can also buy a partially trimmed tenderloin from them for $13 per pound. If this is too much of an expense or more of a project than you want to take on, you can certainly get the same flavor with a nice thick cut filet.

See the great video below for step-by-step instructions on trimming and tying the tenderloin!

Valdeon cheese is wrapped in Sycamore maple leaves and has a creamy, but intense flavor, but is not bitter or biting.

VALDEON or BLUE CHEESE BUTTER

4T unsalted butter, softened
1T finely chopped shallot
1 finely chopped green onion, light and dark green part only
2-3 oz. Valdeon or other creamy blue cheese, softened


1: Mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl with a wooden spoon.
2: Lay a 18"x18" piece of plastic wrap on the counter. Scrape the butter onto the wrap and gently roll it into a 4" log.
3: Refrigerate the butter until about an hour before you are ready to serve the meal.
 

GRILLED BEEF TENDERLOIN

*The key to a perfectly cooked tenderloin is a good working meat thermometer! They cost less then $10 and are worth every penny.

1 small beef tenderloin

2 cloves crushed or minced garlic
1T smoked Spanish paprika
Pinch of cayenne pepper
1T kosher salt
1t ground black pepper 
1/4C olive oil 

1: Prepare the beef by trimming it and patting it gently with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
2: Mix the other six ingredients together in a small bowl and mash into a paste. 
3: Evenly coat all sides of the tenderloin and place on a baking sheet. You can let the beef marinate over night in the refrigerator or at least let it sit out at room temperature with the marinade for 2-4 hours.
4: If you marinate overnight, remove the tenderloin from the fridge and let it set out for about an hour before cooking.


Look at the following article if you want even more information on the finer points of grilling this big guy! 
ALL YOU EVER WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT GRILLING A TENDERLOIN

GRILLING WHOLE TENDERLOIN:
1: Lightly oil, salt and pepper the whole tenderloin.
2: Place whole, tied tenderloin directly on a lightly oiled grill.
3: Turn tenderloin once or twice, about 8 minutes per side for a medium rare tenderloin.
4: After about 15 minutes, start checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Rare: take it off when it reads 125º, Medium rare: 130º and so on.
The meat will continue to cook a bit after you remove it from the heat.
5: Let the tenderloin rest on a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes before slicing it.
6: With a very sharp knife, cut the tenderloin into 1"-1.5" slices.
* Be sure to have everything else ready to serve when you slice the meat. It should be the last thing on the plate.
7: Immediately place a pat of the Valdeon butter on top of the tenderloin slices.




Look at the following article if you want even more information on the finer points of roasting this big guy! 
ALL YOU EVER WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT ROASTING A TENDERLOIN


ROASTING WHOLE TENDERLOIN: 
These are the instructions straight from the Pioneer Woman, who says it better than I ever could:

1: Preheat the oven to 475º.
2: Lightly oil, salt and pepper the whole tenderloin.
3: Heat some olive oil in a heavy skillet. When the oil is to the smoking point, place the tenderloin in the very hot pan to sear it. 
4: Throw a couple of tablespoons of butter into the skillet to give it a nice little butter injection before going in the oven. A minute or two later, when one side is starting to turn nice and brown, flip and repeat.
5: Place the tenderloin on an oven pan with a rack. Put several tablespoons of butter all over the meat. 
6: Place it in a 475-degree oven until the temperature reaches just under 135º, about fifteen to twenty minutes. Stay near the oven and keep checking the meat thermometer to make sure it doesn’t overcook. 
7: Let meat stand ten minutes or so before slicing, so the meat will have a chance to relax a bit.
8: To serve, you can spoon the olive oil/butter juices from the skillet onto the top of the meat for a little extra flavor.
9: With a very sharp knife, cut the tenderloin into 1"-1.5" slices.
* Be sure to have everything else ready to serve when you slice the meat. It should be the last thing on the plate.
10: Immediately place a pat of the Valdeon butter on top of the tenderloin slices.



The video below is an excellent demonstration on how to trim and tie a tenderloin.






Now! All you have to do to complete this awesome meal is make some simple mashed potatoes with butter, milk, salt and pepper.  Throw some haricots verts in a pan with olive oil salt and pepper cook them until nice and tender/crisp.

Then -  be prepared to knock everyone's socks off!

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!

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DIY: Great Skin for the Big Day

EASY STEPS TO MAKE YOUR SKIN GLOW ON A BUDGET

You will probably be the subject of more photos and looked at more lovingly on your wedding day than ever before. Why not a few steps to look as radiant as possible?

It is so easy to make your skin look impeccable, soft and smooth with just a few simple ingredients that you have on hand or and don't cost a fortune.

Microdermabrasion is wonderful, but it can cost a couple hundred dollars or more, depending where you live. Same goes for facials but, who cares about that! You can achieve great results even if you don't want to pay for it.

Here is our little guide to getting great skin!

STEP ONE:  Amlactin

Wonderful all over body cream that smooths skin, evens tone and fades blotches.  I love it for my legs mixed with a little Sublime Bronze by L'Oreal.

http://amlactin.com/product/amlactin-moisturizing-body-lotion 

L'Oreal Sublime Bronze


STEP TWO: Fish Oil Capsules

A steady dose of these pills a month or two out from the event can give your skin a beautiful, healthy glow.


STEP THREE: Bi-weekly Honey Masks


This is so effective for a bunch of reasons: It has an astringent quality that clears up skin, tightens pores and just gives your whole complexion and clean, clear glow. I have even witnessed it clear up acne in some cases.

Seriously, just plain everyday honey, about a tablespoon or two put directly on your skin (avoiding eyes, of course) produces amazing results. Leave the honey on your face for 20-30 minutes, rinse off with warm water and a wash cloth.

The honey will not dry out so it will stay sticky the whole time.  You have to be kind of careful or you can get it in your hair, etc.  However, the sweet taste is a bonus and it washes out of everything easily with staining.

STEP FOUR: Weekly Egg White Masks

Just the egg whites, right on your skin, (again, avoid the eyes) and let it dry until you can't stand it - probably about 30 minutes until it is totally dry.  For real, it will tighten up and make you look really creepy!

After it dries, wash it off with warm water and a wash cloth.  Again, it will tighten your pores and make your skin wonderfully clean and clear.

STEP FIVE: Water, Water, Water

You had to know I was going to mention this one.  It will be one of the best and cheapest ways to get that plump, soft, youthful skin.

Whatever you have to do to get at least 64oz. per day will do you good! 

My personal tip is drinking really cold water out of a huge cup with a straw. It seems to go down so much faster and taste better.  Also, I often mix it with fresh lemon juice for it's purifying properties and the taste or a packet of Emergen-C.  Or sometimes, if I am feeling totally wild, I will use BOTH!

Anyway, it really makes a huge difference, so drink up!

STEP FIVE: Sleep

Again, are you surprised? But, this may be the hardest thing to work in during the last weeks before your wedding.  That is why it is extra important to plan accordingly ahead of time.  My best advice to getting good sleep before your wedding?  DON'T TAKE ON TOO MANY EXTRA PROJECTS!

Trust me, it is more important that you are well rested and unstressed than getting those 1000 paper flowers cut out of silk.

You know what I mean, those little projects that I have heard brides say "I'll just do it myself a few days before the wedding." Nooooo!!! Don't do it. It's just not worth it. Skip it, buy it, delegate it or something!

Get your rest. It will make you feel and look better!

STEP FIVE: Curb the Smoking and Drinking

Another side effect of stress and taking on too much is the desire to drink and smoke if you are prone to that.  Yet another reason to keep your projects at a minimum and your rest and relaxation level as top priority.  Drinking and smoking do so much to damage, dry and discolor your to your skin, not to mention what it does to your hair!

A little here and there is ok, but realize that if you over-indulge, it will show.

STEP SIX: Apple Cider Vinegar in Water

If you can stand it, (and really it's not as bad as it may sound) try drinking a glass of water with a splash of cider vinegar in it.  Usually about a tablespoon or two in an 8oz. glass will be good. This concoction has astringent qualities that will brighten up the whites of your eyes! 

There are many other health benefits of apple cider vinegar! (Too many to get into in this post.)  Check out this very informative post about the raw apple cider vinegar here.



Let's see those glowing faces!

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Event Music Mixes : 1970's Mellow Love Songs

 

 

MUSIC MIXES : 1970's LOVE SONGS  - COCKTAIL HOUR

Here we go!  A new feature! This is the first of many playlists I have assembled on Spotify that can be used at your event.  From exotic Sergio Mendes inspired 60's cocktail hour songs, to a new wave and Indie dance party, to a great collection of 90's and 00's slow jams.  I am starting you out where I started: in the 70's.

These are the easygoing tunes you heard in your parents back seat or on AM radio stations in the 70's. These are perfect for a cocktail hour that is mellow and carefree that will put everyone in a romantic and nostalgic mood. This one plays for a little over an hour, which works out perfectly for a cocktail hour before dinner starts at a wedding or early evening gathering.

This mix includes Fleetwood Mac, Firefall, The Hollies and Peter Frampton. "Magnet and Steel", "Fooled Around and Fell In Love", and of course, "Afternoon Delight".  I think of a 1970's poolside party, with a glass of wine, and halter dresses.

You can just press play here and let her rip! You can use this playlist if you have a Spotify subscription, which is a mere $9.99 a month, which you can cancel anytime.  Also, you can just copy my playlist to your Spotify account and add more songs or customize as you like.

TRACK LISTING:

"You are the Woman" -Firefall
"Give a Little Bit" -Supertramp
"You Make Loving Fun" - Fleetwood Mac
"Magnet and Steel"-  Walter Egan
"Moonlight Feels Right" -Starbuck
"Fooled Around and Fell In Love" -Elvin Bishop
"Come and Get Your Love" -Redbone
"Cool Love" -Pablo Cruise
"Make It With You" -Bread
"Rock Your Baby" -George McCrae
"Say You Love Me" -Fleetwood Mac
"Still the One" -Orleans
"Afternoon Delight" -Starland Vocal Band
"Baby I'm-A Want You" -Bread
"Sweet Caroline" -Neil Diamond
"The Air That I Breathe" -The Hollies
 "Baby I Love Your Way" - Peter Frampton
"We've Only Just Begun" - Carpenters


Enjoy!!

I would love to have your feedback, let me know how these sound to you!

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Recipes: Chicken Corn Chowder with Roasted Poblano Peppers

 

 

POBLANO CHICKEN CORN CHOWDER

This is one of my favorite Fall recipes.  It's a great dish to serve to a large group and also have enough leftover to freeze for those cold winter days. The poblanos are just a little bit hot, but add an interesting dimension of flavor.  

In the last couple of years, we have started a yearly chicken corn chowder party tradition! About 10 of us gather right after Thanksgiving, have a big bowl of hot soup, homemade ginger snap cookies and hot buttered rum -  then we set up and decorate my Christmas tree together.













































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CHICKEN CORN CHOWDER WITH POBLANO PEPPERS:

This recipe makes about 25 cups of soup, so you may want to cut it back if you aren't trying to serve a small army. :)

3 - 4 poblano chilies: roasted, peeled and seeded (The more seeds left behind, the hotter the soup.)
6 chicken breasts: baked whole at 350º until cooked through, about 20 minutes, then cut into chunks
2 yellow onions: cut into a medium dice
6 - 8 carrots: peeled and sliced (I like them sliced into medium sized diagonal coins)
3 russet or 5 new potatoes: peeled and cut into a large dice
3 cans or 3 1# bags of frozen corn: (or 6-8 ears of fresh corn, cut off the cob)

1.5C white wine
12C chicken stock
1.5t cayenne 
2T cumin
3T brown sugar
3T chopped cilantro plus some for garnish
Sour cream
Salt and pepper to taste

1: Heat oven to 500º. Place whole poblanos in oven and roast until skin blisters and pulls away from the flesh of the pepper. (If you have a gas range, you can also roast the peppers by placing them directly on the burners. Turn them with tongs until they are evenly blackened.)  Place roasted peppers in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap and let sweat in bowl for 30 minutes.

2: Peel the skin off the peppers, remove the stems and seeds. Rinse them a bit in cool water and dry them on a paper towel.  Chop the peppers into 1" squares.

3: Heat oil in a large stock pot. Add onions, carrots and a couple pinches of salt and pepper.  Cook on medium heat until slightly browned.  Add chopped peppers and stir.

4:  Deglaze pan with white wine and chicken stock. Add chicken, potatoes, corn and spices and sugar.

5:  Simmer for 25 minutes or so until the potatoes are soft.  Add the cilantro and adjust salt and pepper.

6: Ladle delicious soup into bowls and top with sour cream and sprigs of cilantro.

YUM!!

Chopped Roasted Poblanos

 

 

 

The guys love it!

 

Cooking away in the pot!

Awesome guys putting the tree together

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