• Toronto,  WorldWide

    Courvoisier Collective: Masterpiece Program #CVCollective

    I got a fun little package recently, that gave me the scoop on a unique initiative that aims to inspire and provide exposure for talented at-home chefs and culinary students. So if you are a talented chef, or just love to cook, this one’s for you!

    The program was launched last month, and participants were able to submit recipes online via the Courvoisier Collective website. Those that weren’t interested in participating were able to browse the recipes, vote for their favourite recipes as well as learn more about the chef judges.

    Brittany and I at the #CVCollective event last summer 🙂

    If you’re interested in participating the deadline for submissions and voting is August 24th, after that six finalists (3 from each category- at home chef and culinary students) will be chosen based on the amount of votes collected and judging panel scores. The finalists will then attend an exclusive tasting event in Toronto where their recipes will be sampled by all attendees. Finally, the two winners for each category will receive a $1,000 cash prize.

    Interested in participating? Here are the guidelines:

    • Only open to people that live in Ontario, however voting is open to all Canadian residents.
    • Eligible recipes must fall under the category of soup, salad, hors d’oeuvres or entree.
    • Recipes must contain Courvoisier Cognac (either the VS, VSOP, Exclusif, or XO expression.
    • Submissions must include a photo of the finished recipe.

    Easy as pie. You have until the the 24th of this month to participate, so get to cooking!!

    peace and love

    ♥Bella♥

    ps: go here pics for the #CVCollective event last summer!
  • New York

    Fall Fringe by @julessmithjewel


    Nothing says you are ready to swing into Fall like Fringe! Fringe bags, vests, shirts and even scarves are back! They are a fun easy way to spice up your black tank top and jeans uniform! I am loving these pieces from Jules Smith and they are a classy way to participate in this trend.

    Add a little movement to your jewelry, with fringe necklaces, bracelets, and earrings from Jules Smith!

    Price Range: $95 – $160, available at www.NeimanMarcus.com
  • New York

    Wool Buddy from @NYIGF 2012

    One of the cutest handmade vendors at the New York International Gift Show this year is San Francisco based company Wool Buddy.  Similar to boiled wool, they have no stuffing and are solid toys. A great alternative for babies and pets alike.

    They are awkward and adorable 🙂


    So cute and you can make your own! They have step by step felting kits available per character.

    Find out more on http://woolbuddy.com

  • London

    @FoodiesFestival London Event

    When the sun actually does come out, London is absolutely fantastic in the summer. I took a trip to the west and spent the weekend at Battersea Park for the London Foodies Festival. Now, there may not be a patio hanging out on the streets of London, but it appears you can drink literally anywhere outside, including a bus.

    But that’s not all! They even had ice cream chocolate bars. FOR FREE! I’m freaking out. The ice cream Snickers bar gave me a food-gasm.

    But beyond all the free food everywhere, you can actually learn a thing or two about making your own food. This guy had some audience members come up and cook with him. Fortunately I didn’t volunteer or we’d be stuck on a toilet for the rest of the night.

    Did you know that the English love their sausage? I had no idea how many ways they can be made. The selection on street dog stands seriously need an upgrade.

    Oh yeah, one more thing. Forget Strongbow. There’s a massive selection of Magners ciders — my fave is pear! Soooo refreshing.

    If you missed it this weekend, check out the website for more locations near you.

    Until next time, Cheers! @missamandachen