Category Archives: HOME

A BAR ABOVE: Cocktail Sets That Will Cause A Stir

November 21, 2023

Stirred cocktails, like Martinis & Manhattans, are some of the most iconic drinks in any mixologist’s repertoire. With the right tools and techniques, anyone can start creating restaurant-quality stirred cocktails at home.

So what are these tools, and how can you be sure that you are getting the best value for your money?

Enter A Bar Above, a family-run premium mixology brand co-founded by Chris Tunstall, a professional bartender & bar manager. A Bar Above’s products are wallet-friendly, durable, and stylishly designed, making them a must-have for any home bar. In addition to offering top-quality tools, the brand also offers a suite of courses that cover everything you need to know to get started and expand your skills in mixology.

You can find A Bar Above on Amazon! There you’ll find several sized Craft Cocktail Sets. They also offer really cool Bar Basics Course which is such a fun creative gift.

Instagram: @abarabove
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YouTube: @abarabove
Facebook: @abarabove

Ward 8 Cocktail Ingredients

To craft this delicious cocktail, gather the following simple ingredients:

  1. Rye Whiskey: Opt for a quality rye whiskey, known for its robust and spicy character. This helps balance the Ward 8’s sweet and sour flavor profile.
  2. Fresh Lemon Juice: Use fresh lemons rather than store bought juice to infuse your Ward 8 with natural, bright citrus notes.
  3. Grenadine: A sweet and tangy pomegranate syrup, a hint of grenadine for sweetness adds depth to the cocktail.
  4. Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice imparts a delightful, citrusy tang that complements the other flavors, especially when the two citrus juices are mixed together.
  5. Maraschino Cherry or Orange Slice: A maraschino cherry or orange slice (or even a piece of orange zest) serves as a classic garnish, although it’s also common to skip a garnish on this one.

 

oranges and lemons for a classic whiskey cocktail in a chilled glass

Photo by Levi Meir Clancy via www.unsplash.com

 

How to Make a Ward 8

In this week’s video, Chris not only makes the classic Ward 8 cocktail but also shows you his Ward 8.1 version using his secret ingredient… Limoncello! Check it out here:

 

Ward 8 Variations

Chris himself offers two variations today; before we riff on this Boston classic, let’s look at the basic recipe:

  • 2 ounces rye whiskey
  • 1/2 ounce lemon juice
  • 1/2 ounce orange juice
  • 1/4 ounce Grenadine

While this vintage cocktail is really yummy with its citrus flavor and signature sweetness, here are a few variations to explore:

  1. Ward 9: Swap out the rye whiskey for bourbon, adding a smoother and slightly sweeter profile to the cocktail.
  2. Ward 8 Royale: Top off your Ward 8 with a splash of sparkling wine or champagne for a touch of effervescence.
  3. Winter Ward 8: During the colder months, add a dash of aromatic bitters, such as Angostura or cinnamon bitters, to bring warm notes to your drink– This plays well with the rye mixture.
  4. Tropical Ward 8: Experiment with incorporating a splash of pineapple juice or coconut water for a fruity, refreshing twist. It will play with the other citrus flavors and add a tropical feel.
  5. It’s also popular to use fresh lime juice instead of lemon.
  6. If you’re feeling ambitious and/or creative, make your own homemade grenadine instead of using the overly-sweet store-bought version. Create your own pomegranate simple syrup of sorts by combining equal parts pomegranate juice and sugar with a splash of orange flower water or 1 ounce lemon juice. Note: This natural grenadine won’t produce the same bright color of traditional sweet tart syrup from stores. Don’t be surprised if your final cocktail doesn’t look like our photos!

 

craft cocktail in a chilled glass

Photo by Alex Kubsch via www.unsplash.com

 

Gotta Love This Classic Whiskey Cocktail

The Ward Eight is a classic rye whiskey cocktail that brings together whiskey, citrus, and grenadine for a balanced drink.

Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or impress guests at your next gathering, the Ward 8 offers a delightful blend of flavors and a touch of American history. So, gather your ingredients & your cocktail shaker and perfect your shaking technique– It’s time to make the Ward 8!

famous drink Ward 8, a classic whiskey cocktail, with 1 ounce orange juice

Copyright A Bar Above

 

Ward 8

A twist on the classic cocktail, this surprisingly bright & bitter is a tasty way to use orange juice in a non-sweet drink, adding Limoncello & subbing in single malt whiskey to round out the drink.
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Course: Drinks

Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 oz Single Malt Whiskey
  • 1/2 oz Lemon Juice
  • 1/2 oz Limoncello
  • 1/2 oz Orange Juice
  • 1/4 oz Grenadine

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
  • Shake for 10-15 seconds.
  • Use your Hawthorne cocktail strainer and fine strainer to double strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
  • Optional: Garnish with an orange peel and/or cocktail cherry.

THE CANDLE TO USHER IN FALL

August 25, 2023

Fall means a NEW CANDLE!  Meet Luminose.

A stunning line of home fragrance products made with coconut wax,  crystal diffusers, and a candle care kit.

Of course, I am all about the holiday, fresh, clean foresty-pine vibe, hence I chose Forest Parade. That being said – OMG – it was almost impossible to choose from their scents and vessels!

Take a peek at their gorgeous site and divine offerings – and good luck adding to cart, just one.

Don’t say we didn’t warn you!

 

The Wax

Our candles are hand-poured with care in the United States with an all-natural coconut wax blend made from food-grade certified coconut oil. This vegan, sustainable, paraben-free wax blend provides a clean-burning candle that prevents soot and allows the fragrance to burn true. You will love the milky white texture at first sight!

The Wick

Our signature Golden Wicks are eco-friendly wood wicks made from FSC Certified Wood with non-toxic dye. Each wick is distinctive with its own characteristics and gives off a pleasant crackling sound and a subtle natural aroma when lit. With almost zero carbon buildup, say goodbye to the “mushroom”!

Fragrance Oil

We take a clean-conscious approach to crafting the fragrance blends in our scented candles and crystal diffusers. Each scent is created with love, and a non-toxic ingredient list is always at the forefront of our minds. Our blends are free from many hazardous chemicals often found in fragrances, such as parabens and phthalates, ensuring that they are safe and clean.

Vessels

Our candle vessels are made of ceramic, filled with color, and surfaced with a transparent glaze to form a protective layer. Repurpose this container as a planter, makeup brush holder, or anything you can think of! The stripe textured design and Morandi tone will blend well with any interior.

Crystals

We deeply value the healing properties of wellness stones and take great care in selecting only the most authentic and finest crystals. Each one is hand-picked and sourced from Brazil, Mexico, Madagascar, Pakistan. Our mission is to make sure that these crystals are able to fully diffuse their true potential and help bring balance and wellness to those who use them.

 

 

Elevate Your Hosting Game with Lynn and Liana’s Stunning Cheese Boards

August 8, 2023

I was totally blown away by these hand-crafted works of art from Lynn and Liana designs. It’s no secret that I am cheese board OBSESSED.

When it comes to hosting memorable gatherings, the devil is in the details. The right serving ware can transform an ordinary event into an extraordinary experience. That’s where Lyn and Lianna Designs come in. With their exquisite cheese boards, they’ve managed to blend the beauty of Acacia hardwood with an eco-friendly epoxy, creating functional pieces of art that are perfect for serving and impressing your guests.

Crafting Unique Cheese Boards

Lynn and Liana Designs have masterfully combined the timeless elegance of Acacia hardwood with the modern touch of eco-friendly epoxy. The result? An array of visually captivating and functional cheese boards are sure to be the centerpiece of any table. Each piece is a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication poured into their creation.

Ideal for Intimate Gatherings: Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner for two or a small group of friends, these cheese boards are tailor-made for serving groups of 2-4 people. The thoughtfully designed size ensures that each guest gets a taste of the delectable treats you’ve curated, encouraging an intimate dining experience that fosters conversation and connection.

The Perfect Gift

Searching for the ideal gift for a housewarming, wedding, or a special treat for yourself? Look no further. Lynn and Liana’s cheese boards are not only functional but also a true work of art that any recipient would cherish. The exquisite blend of materials and attention to detail make these boards a thoughtful and unique present that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.

Unleash Your Creativity

Imagine the possibilities that come with owning one of these cheese boards. Picture yourself hosting a girls’ night in, arranging a romantic date night with your significant other, or throwing a get-together with friends. The canvas provided by Lynn and Liana’s designs will undoubtedly inspire you to craft stunning and delicious spreads that reflect your style and personality.

Elegant Presentation

Lynn and Liana Designs have gone the extra mile to ensure that your cheese board experience is nothing short of exceptional. Each board now comes in a beautifully designed Lynn & Lianna black gift box, elevating the presentation of your gift to new heights. This attention to detail showcases the brand’s commitment to excellence and adds a touch of luxury to every occasion.

In a world where details matter, Lynn and Liana Designs have curated a collection of cheese boards that effortlessly blend form and function. With their unique combination of Acacia hardwood and eco-friendly epoxy, these boards are more than just serve ware – they’re conversation starters, works of art, and vessels of creativity. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or find the perfect gift, Lynn and Lianna’s cheese boards are a must-have addition to your home.

Shop here on Amazon.

 

 

The in-person shopping experience isn’t dead, thanks to 7th Avenue

June 19, 2023

Let’s be honest, in-person shopping in Los Angeles hasn’t been a great experience in years. From empty stores to not enough people working, when you’re buying a high-ticket item such as furniture—the whole thing can feel incredibly stressful. Fortunately, one brand proves that the in-person shopping experience is far from dead. In fact, it’s better than ever, at least at 7th Avenue.

If you haven’t heard about this brand yet—they make a gorgeous Cloud Couch dupe (for less money) that has every feature an Angelino could ever want—eco-friendly sofas, chairs, and daybeds that are super comfortable, with slipcovers that are machine-washable, non-toxic (OEKO-TEX certified), and stain resistant. So, they are ideal for everyone from families with young, messy children to grown-ups who often have one too many.

7th Avenue offers shopping by appointment only, creating an exclusive bespoke experience where customers can sit down on sofas of various depths and firmness, and have all their questions answered by incredibly knowledgeable staff. It’s a breath of fresh air compared to the chaotic experience most furniture stores offer. You get the salesperson’s full attention as opposed to hunting someone down and begging for it.

You also get to take the fun (but ever so slightly unnerving) “The Diet Coke Test.” Customers are invited to spill a Diet Coke (or another beverage) to demonstrate the stain resistance of the product in real life. What other brand stands behind their product this way? And seriously, if you’re thirsty during your appointment, they are more than happy to give you a Diet Coke, or sparkling water. After all, sitting is hard work.

Their Los Angeles showroom is located at 820 N Fairfax Avenue. They also have locations in Orange County, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Houston, and New York City with more planned nationwide. Not in the mood to leave the house? No, problem! Just book a virtual showroom appointment.

7th Avenue sofas are modular, meaning you can add cushions and even re-configure your current setup. So, it’s a smart investment because you can buy a smaller sofa as your family grows and then get a few more pieces when you move into a larger space.

And don’t worry, you can have this sofa for years to come because, unlike those fast furniture sofas, 7th Avenue makes a truly high-quality product. The sold frame is made from sustainably sourced wood that is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). So it is an eco-friendly option that Angelios will truly appreciate.

But that isn’t the only customization for this sofa. Four different slipcovers are available—Pure White, Natural White, Charcoal Black, and Heather Grey. So, if your style changes or you want a slightly different aesthetic in your living room—all you need are new slipcovers, not a new sofa. And yes, the slipcovers are really easy to take off and put on again. Much easier and faster than other slipcovers or even that duvet in your bedroom.

Lastly, there are also two firmness options available for the sofa. Medium-firm and medium-soft.

Still not convinced the 7th Avenue sofa is perfect? Make an appointment and experience it for yourself.

Getting warm and staying warm can be a struggle! Create the perfect temperature with CozyThrow💤

February 3, 2023

These new, patent-pending blankets are designed with comfort, warmth, ease, and flexibility.

PERFECTION for my kid who has a major Sensory Processing issue. She LOVES it.

Liz Holland, the CEO of Sensory Product Design, didn’t know she had Sensory Processing Disorder until her 50’s. Following her diagnosis in 2015, she realized her entire life had been spent making prototypes and devices to help others with SPD.

The daughter of an inventor who held more than 100 patents, Liz launched CozyThrow💤(pronounced “cozy throw-zees”) & CozyCo💤(pronounced “cozy co-zees”). Designed by someone with Sensory Processing Disorder, who’s range of comfort is very narrow, this blanket is the most versatile blanket you’ll ever own.

“I want to shine a light on SPD, Sensory Processing Disorder and help people start to understand this complex neurological disorder,” said Liz Holland, CEO of Sensory Product Design. “After I was diagnosed with SPD in my early 50’s, I began to put the pieces together and started my mission to help people find solutions. CozyThrow💤and CozyCo💤can fend off triggers before they happen, thanks to their plush, non-pilling quality fleece fabric and ability to regulate temperature, saving people time and energy.”

Beyond warmth, CozyThrow💤 and CozyCo💤promotes a sense of calm. It’s perfect for busy toddlers that have a hard time settling down. The CozyThrow💤offers adults the same sensation of settling the nervous system.

CozyThrow💤 and CozyCo💤 include a foot pocket that is double lined with polar fleece and flares around the ankles. The hand pockets have finger & thumb openings that offer total, unrestricted comfort and the ability to hold almost anything to ensure warmth and mobility.

The super-soft, plush, non-pilling quality fleece fabric reduces potential sensory triggers and is comfy for everyone. It also stands up well to continuous use. It’s made to blend seamlessly into the home and use as an everyday throw blanket.

These durable blankets are designed to last while relaxing or during play. They can also be tossed in the washing machine and used as an everyday throw blanket.

CozyThrow💤and CozyCo💤are available for pre-order at a discounted price of $39 and $49. To pre-order, click here.