Monday, March 18, 2013

Rum Carrot Cake Lara Bars with Raisins and Walnuts

I cook just like I create art - using a little of this, a little of that and a lot of imagination - until, one big mess later, I have something I'm satisfied with.  I rarely use recipes, and if I do, they're mainly for, inspiration.  My last foray into the world of food was different.  I've been making homemade lara bars for my 14-month-old son since they're healthy and he loves them (yay all around!).  The last batch was so temptingly delicious that I immediately made another batch (partly because my husband and son had already eaten most of the first, and partly so I could actually figure out what I'd done so right in order to record the recipe).  Without further explanation, I'd like to share my recipe for what I call Rum Carrot Cake Bars:

Ingredients:
* 1 c. toasted coconut (broil on high, 1 1/2 minutes or until lightly golden brown - watch closely)
* 1/2 c. quinoa flakes
* 1/2 c. almond meal (or almonds ground to a fine powder in a food processor)
* 1 t. cinnamon
* 1/4 to 1/2 t. nutmeg according to taste
* 8-10 peeled, washed baby carrots
* 1 t. vanilla
* 1 t. rum flavor
* 1/2 c. raisins
* 6 pitted dates
* heaping 1/4 c. walnuts

(Note: A couple of items can be substituted for health or preference reasons.  1/2 cup of rolled oats may be substituted for either the coconut or almond meal. Walnuts and rum flavor are also optional.)

Separate 1/2 c. of the toasted coconut.  Reserve the other half.  Blend coconut, quinoa flakes, almond meal, cinnamon and nutmeg briefly in food processor, 5-10 seconds.  Add baby carrots, vanilla and rum.  Blend and pulse until finely chopped in.  Add raisins and dates.  Pulse until well mixed, leaving various sized bits for texture if desired.  Do the same with the walnuts.

The Rum Carrot Cake mixture can be rolled into small balls or pressed into a baking pan.  Use approximately a 6x9 pan lined with wax paper.  Either roll balls in remaining 1/2 c. of coconut or sprinkle over the top of bars before cutting.  Refrigerate.

Did you discover the mouthwatering joy of homemade Lara Bars a little late, like I did, or have you been a fan for years?  What's your favorite flavor / recipe?

(by Erin)

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Jewelry Meets Bridal Accessories for Photo Shoot Inspiration

We've been brainstorming some ideas for a photo shoot that 'marries' (so to speak), some of our everyday classic jewelry with our line of wedding accessories. Here are a few of our favorites, both from our jewelry and wedding accessories line. How would you dress up or dress down some of these pieces to suit your style?

Rhinestone and Tulle Headband Veil Alternative


Peony with Swarovski Crystal Center


Dahlia

Limited Edition Hydreangea and Vintage Inspired Comb


Feather and Crystals Rhinestone Eternity Knot Clip
Pearl Hoop Earrings in Gold
Rhinestone Jewel Earrings, Vintage Rhinestone
Chandelier Earrings in Silver
Two Initials Heart Necklace

 

Friday, March 30, 2012

Monsieur Meadowbelle: Welcoming Baby Aristos

It's been a few months since I finally welcomed my beautiful baby boy into this world, but if you're a mommy, you know how time flies!  In celebration of his three month "birthday", Auntie Aundrea and I would like to present little Monsieur Meadowbelle, Aristos Lucien Pech, with a few photos we've taken.  I tend to go a bit crazy when it comes to photographing anything cute (like the baby squirrel we rescued last fall, or my two dogs), so imagine my glee in having this lovely little being to dote over - and photograph, of course!  Fear not, however, I'll only post a small selection here :)



As for the official stats:  Aristos Lucien Pech, born December 28th, 2011 at 12:39 pm, weighing 10 lbs. 5 oz. (yes, I know!) at 22 inches long.  

Thank you for sharing in our excitement.  As a hint to an upcoming event, we may have more stork action on the way, so stay tuned!

Saturday, September 17, 2011

Real Weddings: Daniel & Kelly Galinsky


Meet Daniel and Kelly Galinsky; this adorable couple tied the knot on April 16, 2011.  Inspired by the warm, sunny surroundings of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Kelly chose a beautiful strapless gown and adorned her braided golden locks with a co-ordinating rose with rhinestone center by Meadowbelle Market. 
Wanting to add a personalized touch to the day, Daniel and Kelly chose to learn a choreographed 'first dance', with which they surprised their guests.  In Kelly's own words, it was "so much fun to learn and perform!"  We love the idea of making the traditional first dance your very own as a couple, and luckily the Galinsky's chose an amazing photographer to capture both the first dance, as well as special moments from the entire day.  The talented Emily Harris is credited with the photography work that has created tangible memories that will last a lifetime. 
Thanks to Daniel and Kelly for sharing their day with us!

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Deal Bomb Unveiled!


What's a deal bomb?  I don't really know any better than you do, except that it means you score big time in terms of savings!  We wanted to have a little fun this holiday season, so during November, we'll be randomly choosing our favorite items to offer at an incredible price, and 'bombing' our shop with them for a limited time.  For example, our first deal bomb is one of our lovely pearl & sterling necklaces (shown); you can snag it TODAY ONLY for $9.  We're only offering five at this price.  Visit our shop or click on the photo for more details:

 

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Don't Forget: We're Happy to Personalize






Personalization is key to making  your 'big day' (or any event, special occasion, gift, etc.) truly your own.  That is also what we believe sets us apart from  your 'average store'.  We (Aundrea & Erin) personally handle everything from advertising our work to creating designs, customer service, production, packaging, and shipping.  In an age of instant gratification and one-size-fits-all, we think it is pretty great to have such personalized care.  Of course, we  hope you do to!  Here are some of our latest items, personalized to our customer's taste.

Sunday, September 19, 2010

It's a Golden Vintage Fall

I can't believe it's been almost a year since I got married!  My time flies; I'll trust that's a good thing when speaking in reference to my husband. ;)

While reminiscing, I came across this test shot our photographer, Josie Kern, did during our engagement session.  The deep golden wallpaper backdrop is actually in the hallway of Josie's house.  She lives in one of Kansas City's many historic homes - our city's little hidden gems, in my opinion.  Some of the most stunning are now part of the Kansas City Art Institute campus, including Josie's massive stone abode. 

Eveything about the home is somewhat magical and whispers of days gone by with a sprawling staircase fit for Scarlett O'Hara and rich woodworking that invites you to feel its smooth curves.  I especially fell in love with this wallpaper (hence the dreamy gleam in my eye - apparently I was imagining how the decor would look in my reading nook rather than thinking of my betrothed). 

Here's to the robust magic of bountiful fall harvests, to all things tried-and-true and the glow of love; and please let me know if you ever find some old rolls of wallpaper half this stunning!

What's your favorite fall memory?  Please do share...