Party Tips: KAG ~ Monograms & Martinis

KAG with her fiance

Anyone that names their blog "Monograms and Martinis" is someone I knew I would love! As I got to know KAG through "blogger world", I found out my initial instincts were right - this girl is adorable! She was kind enough to share here best party tips.

Favorite Cocktail (for drinking and serving):

Extra Dirty Martini

2 oz Vodka (Ketel One)

1 T dry vermouth

2T olive juice (DIRTY SUE)

3 green olives

Chill glasses in freezer for 2 -3 minutes. Put all items (olives, too!) in a mixer, cover and shake. Remove glasses from freezer, strain contents into cocktail glasses and top with the olives. Yes, please!

Favorite Recipe:

Grilled Pork Chop with Cabbage & Sesame Slaw from Real Simple

A favorite for summer entertaining.

For recipe CLICK:

Favorite Restaurants:

In Boston it is PETITE ROBERT BISTRO.

When she is on Nantucket, KAG's favorite spot is 21 FEDERAL.

Favorite Party Sources:

GRACIOUS HOME in NYC

Which is where she found this ice bucket:

BEST OF THE BEACH on Nantucket is great for hostess gifts or party favors.

Shreve, Crump and Low has beautiful things and the Gurgling Cod is a Boston classic for entertaining or for holding flowers.

Favorite Tips:

* Mix a signature drink for each gathering. In the summer months try sangria and serve it chilled in mason jars.

* Create a play list for every event and have it playing when guests arrive.

* Make custom cocktail napkins for different parties. You can order them online or at most stationery stores. Or, if you are ambitious, you can embroider your own on your sewing machine.

* And remember, be gracious if it kills you!

Favorite Tunes for Entertaining:

Now I am sure you all agree - this girl knows how to entertain! Thanks KAG!