NYC-themed party

I’ve had the pleasure of rooming with Katie for the past 2 years in Chicago—together we’ve lived in the South Loop and in our current apartment in Lakeview.  She’s decided to take an amazing offer with Alexander Wang in New York City!  You may recall Katie's first NYC experience.  Of course that only meant I had to throw a fabulous surprise going away party.  

Chicago Roomie Love

I wish I took more photos that evening, but being a hostess with the mostest does keep you busy :)

Welcome to the first of my new page-- DIY posts!  Below are some ideas for an NYC-Themed party:

•  Décor:  A city of Lights - Place white Christmas lights throughout the party area.  The plain white or icicle ones work best-- if you go with color it's just too Christmas-y. 

Shout out to party guest Gianni for providing white lights and helping with set-up!

• Food:  New York Cheesecake – I ended up buying one because I was super busy that week, but here is a great quick and easy recipe that I intended to make:

Ingredients:
1/2 c sugar
2 eggs
8 oz softened cream cheese
Vanilla wafers
Foil cupcake liners

Beat all ingredients except wafers until smooth.  Place one wafer inside each foil cup and fill half full with batter.  Bake for 15 minutes at 350 degrees.  Cool in refrigerator.  Top with chocolate chips, fruit, almost anything!

• Drinks:  Manhattans—I even bought a shaker, and each drink included maraschino cherries and a lemon garnish.  

Thanks to all who made it out that night!  Best of Luck to Katie!!!You will be missed!

One Hand in the air for the big city

This past weekend I visited NYC to show my Chicago roommate the city of lights as well as visit with friends.  Fortunately, I worked a summer in Manhattan interning with NBC Universal at 30 Rock and know a little bit about the place.  Below are the top three sights I recommend one see when visiting New York City.

1.  Run around Times Square

If you are a NYC first-timer, it is a must to go to Times Square.  The ads, the people, the stores, and the hustle and bustle is like no other.  I recommend visiting the hershey store for a free candy, go to the M&M store to see the unique colors that they don't have in the bags, and walk through the Barbie dreamhouse in the 3-story Toys R' Us.

2.  Eat in Little Italy 

Little Italy is a delicious place.  My family and friends met up at our favorite restaurant, Il Cortile.  I intentionally did not take any photos of my dish because it would not do justice to the taste-- I had an amazing gnocchi plate.  After dinner, head across the street to Canolli King for dessert.  

3.  Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

It was my first time walking the Brooklyn Bridge.  It was very scenic and fun for an afternoon activity.  I highly recommend doing it if you have never tried it.  A free way to see a great view of the skyline.