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Summer Dips & BBQ Tips

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Selecting Your Spot

Tailgating is a city-wide activity, which means that while there may be plenty of room for everyone, selecting your spot requires planning. This is especially true if you hope to tailgate on campus or near the stadium.

To help you navigate the area, familiarize yourself with the University of Tennessee’s parking and transit services website. You’ll find a wealth of information and resources that outline private versus public lots on campus during the football season. They also provide a map that shows designated parking areas for specific groups such as donors and others, which you can reference to get a bird’s eye view of potential tailgate spots.

Planning Your Menu

Food is arguably the most important – and memorable – part of any tailgate. While you can never go wrong with the classic dips and grilled favorites, planning your spread can be daunting.

The easiest way to relieve some of the pressure is to ask for help. There are plenty of simple tailgate recipes out there and requesting that your guests bring a dish to share with the group is a great way to get everyone involved. Plus, it’s a sure way to create a diverse spread with tons of treats to choose from.

On the other hand, some prefer to take on menu planning alone, and that’s okay too. If you want to land yourself a spot in the tailgate food Hall of Fame, here are some recipes you might consider serving.

PURPLE POTATO SALAD

It’s probably best to avoid this one when we’re playing LSU – wouldn’t want anyone to think you’re cheering for the wrong team! For other gamedays though, this purple potato salad is a great way to add some color to your tailgate table. Combine purple fingerling potatoes with garlic, red pepper flakes, apple cider vinegar, and salt in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil until the potatoes are tender. After about 7 to 10 minutes, add red onion and cook for another minute. You’ll then drain and discard the garlic and allow everything to cool. From there, whisk together some more apple cider vinegar, sugar, and salt, and mix in mayo, sour cream, and horseradish. Finish it all off by adding celery and pickles, as well as fresh dill, parsley, salt, and pepper.

BUFFALO CHICKEN GRILLED BRIE

This twist on a crowd favorite will be the talk of your tailgate. Just toss together some shredded chicken and buffalo wing sauce and slice off the top rind of a wheel of brie. Place it on some foil and top with the chicken and some celery. Then, close the foil, leaving room in the packet, and grill over medium-low heat until the cheese is soft. After about 8 minutes, unwrap and top with blue cheese dressing and scallions.

COWBOY CAVIAR

Whether you’ve never heard of it before or have been making it for years, cowboy caviar is become a wildly popular recipe that’s perfect for tailgates. It combines fresh ingredients like tomatoes, red onion, black beans, corn, bell peppers, jalapeno, cilantro, and scallions, all tossed together in a tangy vinaigrette dressing. This is one of the simplest yet tastiest appetizers, and the best part is that there are tons of variations you can try. No matter what twist you take, serve it with tortilla chips and soon you’ll have the entire tailgate in awe.

Cheering On The Vols At Home

Tailgating at home can be just as exciting as it is on campus, and you can create an atmosphere that rivals being right outside the stadium. If you’re skeptical, consider the perks of an at-home event like the ability to avoid crowded city streets, overall comfortability, and not having to take all your party favors on-the-go. Here’s some tips to help you host a first-rate tailgate from your very own home.

Decorate Your Space

Set the stage for your tailgate with tasteful decorations that match the gameday spirit. You can either buy pre-made accents or create some do-it-yourself (DIY) pieces. Either way, make sure your decorations coincide with your favorite team’s colors – which we hope is orange and white!

CONSIDER CATERING

Cross some items off your tailgate to-do list by using a caterer for your event. Some only provide food and drinks, but others may offer delivery, set up, and take down service. Depending on how much help you think you’ll need, there are plenty of catering options to choose from including chain restaurants like Chipotle and local favorites such as Calhoun’s.

KEEP GUESTS ENTERTAINED

When you’re not watching the game, keep guests entertained by setting up activities and games that everyone can enjoy. Whether you break out the cornhole boards or giant Jenga set, everyone will remember the fun they had at your tailgate.
‘Tis the season for tailgating, and with these tips and tricks in mind, you’ll be able to tackle it like a pro.

History of the Holidays

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The holiday season is filled with symbols and traditions. But what’s the history behind traditions like kissing under the mistletoe or leaving out milk and cookies come from? Here’s the history behind some of the most popular holiday symbols and traditions.  

Gingerbread Men 

Ginger made its way to Europe during the Middle Ages, and was incorporated into cookies, Legend has it that Queen Elizabeth I was the first to have ginger cookies shaped into the iconic gingerbread man shape to represent foreign dignitaries. 

Wreaths 

This symbol goes all the way back to ancient Greece and Rome when athletes would adorn a crown of leafy branches to celebrate their victories. Wreaths were also a symbol of spring’s rebirth that pagans would put out in honor of the winter solstice. The wreath was later adapted by Christians to count down the weeks leading up to the birth of Jesus.  

Dreidel 

A dreidel is a spinning top that has a long history in the Jewish culture and the holiday of Hanukkah. This four-sided top has a different Hebrew letter on each side. The legend behind the dreidel goes all the way back to the time of the Maccabees (167-160 BCE), when Jewish children were forbidden from studying the Torah. The children defied this degree and studied the Torah anyway. When the Greek oppressors would come close to the praying children, the kids would put down their prayer books and start playing with the spinning dreidel, claiming they were just playing a game. Today, children play the dreidel game during Hanukkah as a reminder of their past. This tradition is made extra sweet by the candy children can win during the game. 

Stockings 

The tradition of hanging stockings can be attributed to a story about Saint Nicholas. It’s believed that the real Saint Nick snuck down the chimney of a poor widower who didn’t have enough money to pay dowries for his three daughters to get married. After coming down the chimney, Saint Nicholas saw the women’s socks drying on the mantel; he filled them with gold coins and left. The next morning the widower and his daughters were delighted to find the gold that would make it possible for the women to get married. 

Poinsettias 

The official Christmas flower originated in Mexico. Legend has it that a poor girl left a bundle of weeds at a nativity scene as an offering to baby Jesus , and the weeds miraculously transformed into a bright red flower.   

Holiday Gift Guide (For Everyone On Your List)

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The holidays are about much more than the presents under the tree, but there’s no denying the joy that comes with giving and unwrapping a truly thoughtful gift from a loved one. Nonetheless, it isn’t always easy to know exactly what to give some of your family and friends. The following gift guide might give you some inspiration and help you to find something special for everyone on your list.  

For The Host 

Selecting a gift for the host of your holiday gathering is one thing, but what about for those family members or friends who love to entertain year-round? Gifts for the host typically include wine, soaps, and kitchen gadgets, but this year is the perfect time to think outside-the-box and give them something they can cherish forever. 

Bar Cart Details

Bar carts have become a popular piece in homes everywhere, and especially ones that are decorated with bottles and cocktail tools that reflect the homeowner’s style. For the host in your life, chances are the details on their bar cart don’t just look amazing, but are also practical items they might use frequently when entertaining guests. Some gifts you might consider adding to their collection this holiday season include cocktail stirrers made of elegant glass, a wine decanter to sit beautifully atop their bar cart or counter, or unique glassware that stands out from the typical crystal.  

Cooking Class

Getting to spend quality time with a friend or family member while learning a new culinary skill is the perfect gift for the chef in your life. You can gift them a cooking class at one of Knoxville’s cooking schools like The Cutting Edge, where you can take a class on everything from classical French seafood to savory and sweet doughnuts.  

 

For The Chef

The chef of the group may often seem like the easiest person to shop for, but there are only so many kitchen gadgets, dinnerware, and samplers out there. Stray away from the typical “chef’s gifts” this season and consider what else may really brighten their holiday season.  

Personalized Recipe Binder

Show your support for the chef in your life’s passion by gifting them a personalized binder for them to house their favorite recipes. Whether they are looking for a place to save grandma’s chocolate chip cookie recipe, or to tuck away their notes on how to make the perfect mac n cheese, a recipe binder will be a treasured item they’ll go to time and time again. You can curate the perfect binder with their initials, an image of their favorite dish, or a Julia Child’s quote – local companies like Make it Yours will help design the perfect personalized item. 

For The Health & Wellness Guru 

Gifting items or experiences that help the health and wellness guru in your life get the most out of their self-care will be treasured. Everyone’s version of self-care looks a little different, so consider the activities that the person in your life enjoys the most.

Exercise And Adventure 

If the health and wellness guru in your life loves exercising and spending time in nature, they’ll love the outings offered by local companies like the Knoxville Adventure Collective. Gift them a guided e-bike tour, a kayak trip down the Tennessee river, or a mountain biking class.  

 

Relax And Rewind 

Taking care of your mind and spirit is a key part of health and wellness. To help the health and wellness guru in your life channel their inner Zen you can gift a relaxing massage, acupuncture, or an afternoon at a spa like Wake Foot Sanctuary.  

For The Jetsetter 

The person in your life that’s always off to the next adventure likely has their travel essentials down pat, but you can give unique items that will remind them of where they’ve been and keep their wanderlust alive while they are enjoying time at home.  

 

Flower Arrangements for Your Fall Table

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Flower arrangements can enhance the ambiance of any room, especially during the fall season. Once the weather cools, flower arrangements allow you to incorporate natural elements in your home, giving it a chic upgrade for autumn.  

 Whether you prefer to buy your arrangements from a florist or would rather put them together yourself, we’ve gathered some information below to help you find the perfect bouquet for your space. From the flowers you should be looking for to current trends and styles, the following will give you plenty of inspiration for your arrangements.  

Relaxed Elegance 

Reflect the calming, inviting feelings of fall in your home by decorating with bouquets that emulate a relaxed elegance. Start by looking for an urn or vase that has a wide, low rim. This will allow flowers to overflow and hang loosely over the sides, creating a dynamic yet graceful display.  

The vessel should hold structural branches, shrubs, or foliage with colorful leaves or berries that boast autumnal hues. Combine those with large roses that are slightly battered by the cooler weather for an added uniqueness and textural element. Look for robust focal flowers such as chrysanthemum and dahlias that introduce a bit of drama to the arrangement. For a final flourish, search for wispy stems like spindle tree or acer leaves for a whimsical feel.  

With the relaxed elegance style, balance is key. This kind of bouquet can take on several forms and variations, and none of which need to be symmetrical, but the elements should flow together and work proportionally. Hazy hues and smokey tones blend beautifully together, as well as contrasting colors such as vibrant yellows and rich oranges. When in doubt, read the arrangement from left to right, with color, shape, and form effortlessly carrying your eye.  

Dried Flowers 

Rustic elements are an autumn staple in many homes, and dried flowers have become increasingly popular for those looking to achieve a vintage yet sophisticated flair in their home. Not only can they be combined to create a gorgeous piece for your mantel or dining room table, but also a long-lasting bouquet you can alter and revamp throughout the entire season.  

Keep an eye out for pampas grass stems, baby’s breath, preserved eucalyptus, bunny tails, and white nigella. You’ll should also look for colors such as dusty pinks, purples, and blues, which work harmoniously with neutral and warm tones.  

Non-Traditional Elements 

Have fun with your fall flower arrangements and experiment with non-traditional elements to create eclectic, eye-catching bouquet. You can be as adventurous as you want, but an easy place to start is by using a unique vessel such as a birch vase, champagne bucket, or watering can.  

 Look for seasonal items like oak, brunia, and thistle to be combined with anything from vanda orchids, caraluna garden roses, and anemones. Arrangements should be lush and autumnal, but edgy at the same time. Pairings of light and dark tones with complimentary details such as taper candles work together with florals to create an enduring tablescape that’s sure to leave your guests talking.

Warm Weather Cocktails

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There are few better ways to enjoy the summertime heat than with a refreshing cocktail to keep you cool. Whether you prefer to sip on something fruity, herby, or frozen, the flavors of the season make for some of the most exquisite drink combinations. Here are merely a few you might want to try:

Rum Runner 

The Rum Runner is a cocktail that’s rich with both flavor and history. Its name is a nod to the dangerous task of smuggling alcohol across state lines during the Prohibition Era. The practice became known as “rum running,” and is now tied to this classic tropical cocktail too. Staying true to its name, this drink calls for two types of rum to be mixed with fruity liqueurs and fresh juices, creating a beautifully balanced cocktail for even the warmest of days.  

Lavender Gin & Tonic Punch 

The Lavender Gin & Tonic is naturally flavored and takes on a beautiful, eye catching shade of purple. To make this light and refreshing drink, start with the standard gin and tonic ingredients – gin, tonic water, and lime. You’ll then infuse the gin and tonic water with dried lavender, as well as the lime juice with butterfly pea syrup to achieve the cocktail’s gorgeous color. And infusing spirits is actually quite simple. Mix 2 tablespoons of lavender with 1 1/12 cups gin and allow them to sit for anywhere between 5-24 hours. Once it’s finished, pour it through a mesh strainer, letting the gin fall into a class and catching the dried lavender to throw away.  

Cranberry Martini 

The crowd-pleasing Cranberry Martini is both delicious and simple to make. The trick is to use sweetened cranberry juice – not unsweetened. This will produce a decadent taste that balances the flavors of the spirits. You’ll also need freshly squeezed lemon juice, orange liqueur, and of course, gin. The best way to make this cocktail is to add all your ingredients into a pitcher ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Before serving, grab your cocktail shaker and fill it with ice. You’ll then add as much of the mixture as you can, shake for 20 seconds, and then strain into your favorite martini glass. Repeat this process for a perfectly served Cranberry Martini every time. 

Smoky Lemon Mule 

While its namesake isn’t a direct reference to our very own Great Smoky Mountains, the Smoky Lemon Mule earns its title. Made with lemon juice, vodka, finger syrup, ginger beer, and mezcal, its sweet and smoky flavor is great on its own or paired with your favorite barbeque recipes. To get the full effect of the Smoky Lemon Mule, mezcal is key – substituting it for another tequila won’t do. Given the differences in how tequila and mezcal are distilled, their flavors are entirely different, which is the source of the smokiness commonly associated with the latter.  

Entertain Like an Expert

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Now is the time to up your entertainment game. It goes without saying that a lot has changed in how we socialize over the years, but 2023 will be all about getting back to our old, less distant ways. With the following expert advice in mind, you can become the go-to host for gatherings this year.  

 

Small, Intimate Soirees 

According to Amber Mayfield, founder of To Be Hosted and While Entertaining magazine, packed parties are a thing of the past. Events such as intimate dinner parties, casual game nights, and small watch parties are a more approachable way of getting your closest friends and family together. When building your guest list, prioritize quality over quantity. Keeping it small will allow for genuine connection, conversation, and memories that will last a lifetime.  

 

Elaborate Tablescapes 

Minimizing your guest list doesn’t mean you have to downsize your style. In fact, entertaining expert Joanna Buchanan, says that eye-catching tablescapes and décor should be at the forefront of your next event. This is an opportunity to make a statement and get creative. Themes and seasonal moments are a great place to start, but when it comes to the individual elements you choose to include, think beyond the basics.   

Experimental Menus 

The cuisine served in entertainment settings can potentially make or break an event. Classic dinner parties won’t be going anywhere anytime soon, but Mayfield predicts passed hors d’oeuvres and creative culinary experiences will begin to take center stage.  

From interactive stations to “build your own” food options, the future of event cuisine will be all about making your menu an experience in its own right – and the same goes for drinks too. According to Mayfield, bars will become more innovative all-around with a longer list of unique beverages to try.  

 

It’s likely been awhile since you last planned an event, but with new ideas and perspective in mind, you can become the go-to host for gatherings this year.  

Spring Refresh: Time to Elevate Your Space

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Transitioning your home décor from winter to spring is a sure mood-booster. Whether you’re sticking to your usual style or looking to try something new, you can get some inspiration from this year’s interior design trends.  

  

Curved Furniture Silhouettes 

Modern, sharp lines are timeless, but the softening of furniture silhouettes is gaining popularity in the world of design. Curved edges and feminine shapes turn the average sofa or loveseat into a work of art.  

Furniture with softer curves can add to the coziness of a room. While on the other hand, it’s a perfect pairing for bold colors or striking patterns, which can instantly elevate any space into one that’s interesting, dynamic, and memorable.  

Decorative Cabinetry

The shaker style cabinetry profile is by far the most recognizable. It’s a classic, simplistic approach that allows other elements of your space to shine. However, creative cabinetry styles are a trending topic for those who want to achieve an added touch of personalization in their home.  

For a contemporary look, designer Kate Lester of Kate Lester Interiors, recommends a vertical paneled door detail or a flat-panel style with unique hardware. Play around with different combinations of colors, handles, and knobs too as this is your chance to let your creativity flourish.  

Parisian-Inspired Interiors 

Our homes can be a transportive experience, and many are turning to modern interpretations of Parisian-inspired designs to emulate exactly that. Kelley Carter, Bloomingdales’ Home Fashion Director, says that this trend is all about the intersection of color and materials.  

Bringing together pastels and metallics creates an inviting space that can be elevated with elaborate pieces made of translucent materials such as colored glass or iridescent crystal. When placed in an area with an abundance of natural light, these elements produce a glowing effect in your home that brightens the space, and creates a dreamy, Parisian atmosphere.  

Colorful Tableware

Quickly becoming an art form and medium for self-expression, “tablescaping” is an opportunity to further exude your personal style. From lavender glassware to rich, teal dinnerware, the key to this trend is to mix-and-match color.   

With this approach, you can grow your collection over time and introduce pieces from different collections to create an eclectic yet stylish presentation. You can start small by acquiring colorful table linens for a slight pop or go straight to tinted glassware and dinnerware. Either way, don’t be intimidated by funky, bold shades – have fun with it! 

 

Your home should be a reflection of you, and whether you give these trends a try or decide they aren’t for you, decorate your space to create your own version of happiness.

Hostess Gifts (That are Sure to Make You the “Guest of Honor”)

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The hostess of the holidays deserves a lot of credit. Typical hostess gifts include wine, books, or seasonal scents, but it’s important to give them something they’ll love. You might not be able to express all your gratitude, but these gift ideas are sure to come close.  

 

Kitchenware

The kitchenware possibilities are endless. Not only can most pieces be put to good use, but a lot of them can make a hostess’s life easier too. Take the initiative of surveying what your hostess already owns, what they like to make, and they’re personal style. The answers to these questions and similar inquiries will lead you to choosing the perfect addition to your hostess’s kitchen.  

One piece of kitchenware that rarely disappoints is a finely crafted cheese board. Instead of gifting the typical wooden board, look for one made of luxurious or unique materials such as marble or slate. You might also consider giving your hostess a wine chiller for their table or counter. To turn the seemingly average into something special, search for decorative chillers that match your hostess’s home and personality.

 

Vases  

You can fill a beautiful vase with fresh flowers to make any hostess smile. As with all others, this gift should be personalized. If your hostess prefers modern design, gift them a vase that has clean lines, a monochrome palette, and a sleek finish. On the other hand, if your hostess leans toward vintage or rustic styles, look for vases that use metallics, vibrant pops of color, or texturizing elements.  

Regardless of the vase you choose, take note of your hostess’s favorite flowers. Others you might consider include daffodils, hellebores, cyclamen, or camellia, all which bloom wonderfully during the colder months. Another factor you should ponder is whether your hostess has an indoor or outdoor garden. This offers an alternative to the flower filled vase, which can be replaced by smaller pots to be filled with herb plants or petite foliage.

Bath & Body 

Lotions and potions are a popular hostess gift, but often one that misses the mark as well. To get this one right, it’s important to make sure your hostess will actually enjoy the scent. Observe the candles, essential oils, and other scented products they already have in their home to get a feel for what they like. If all else fails, choose something mild, light, and airy to avoid overloading your hostess’s senses.  

Show an added appreciation by giving you hostess a product with elevated luxury. Stone moisturizers, artisanal soaps, or handmade items are merely a few examples. Items that use essential oils that relieve stress, boost energy, or aid in sleep might be considered as well. Similarly, all-natural, vegan, and cruelty-free products should be included in your gift search, especially if these factors are important to your hostess.  

Stress Less This Season

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For many, the holiday season comes with plenty of joy – and plenty of stress. From planning events to buying gifts, it can be easy slip into the pressure of making this “the best one yet.” Thankfully, experts from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and Mayo Clinic share their tips for de-stressing during the holiday boom. Here’s how you can get back to enjoying the season:  

 

Accept Imperfection

Expectations are often set impossibly high for the holidays. Not only do we feel pressure from those around us, but we as individuals put a lot of pressure on ourselves too. The fact of the matter is, you can’t please everyone, and imperfection is healthy and normal. When things don’t go according to plan, don’t beat yourself up and pack your patience – we’ve all been there! 

 

Remember the Reason for the Season   

When you start feeling overwhelmed or frustrated, don’t lose sight of what really counts. Minor inconveniences such as long grocery lines or stand-still traffic can feel like huge bumps in the road during this time. Instead of letting the stress take over, maintain a calmer approach to the situation. Use the time to reflect on the good parts of your day and don’t let it spoil the rest of it.

Respond with Kindness

You can’t control the actions of others, but you can control how you respond. The stress of the holidays takes its toll on everyone, and there’s no guarantee that every individual will manage it well. Remind yourself of this if, for example, you have a difficult or unpleasant encounter. Soften any frustration with compassion because just like you, everyone is dealing with the pressure – it’s not personal.

 

Take a Breather

Don’t be afraid to make time for yourself and take a break from the holiday hustle and bustle. Even just 15 minutes can help to clear your mind, reduce stress, and cultivate fresh perspective. Take this time to do something you enjoy such as reading, listening to music, or taking a walk. Remove distractions and rejuvenate yourself.  

 

Learn to Say “No”

It’s easier said than done, but most of us know the feeling of disdain and overwhelming stress that comes from saying “yes” when we should be saying “no.” This is especially difficult to grasp during the holidays because we fear creating disappointment or disagreement. However, it’s important to do what’s best for you, and remember, you aren’t the only one facing such situations. You don’t have to feel guilty.  

Holiday Home Décor

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Households commonly stick to the same holiday décor every year because, quite simply, it’s tradition. Nonetheless, you can incorporate your seasonal staples while also trying something new. Here are some of this year’s holiday décor trends to experiment with:  

 

Gemstone Glamor

The gemstone trend is a balance between elegance and modernity. Emphasizing jewel tones, rich greens are the star of the show, complimented by bright shades of magenta and touches of purple and gold. With a real Christmas tree and garland, the space comes to life with natural pine fragrance.  

 

White Christmas 

For a chic yet traditional feel, neutral tones act as the base of this décor trend. Cream, beige, and soft pink pieces layer the space followed by accents of bold reds, cool blues, and greys. Pieces made of faux fur such as throws, and pillows add texture while tying everything together. Finally, natural wood finishes and your favorite seasonal scents build warmth and comfort.  

 

Medieval Mood 

This is a more formal approach to holiday décor that incorporates emerald greens, navy blues, and deep burgundy shades. These rich tones are accessorized with luxurious crystal glassware and shimmering gold elements. Unique candle holders line mantels and act as centerpieces in the dining room for added attraction.  

 

Midnight Dream 

Create a somber yet festive mood to your holiday space with this trend. Royal blues are paired with dark shades of indigo, wine, rust tones, and burnt orange hues. Gold accents and extravagant ornaments are a staple along with feathers to add texture.