Dear Margaret,
I'm dying to go with you to the Hamptons sometime.. I have still never been! I love everything about farm fresh foods, summer seersucker, and an active lifestyle.. please lets go soon and hit up all the places on your "Hamptons guide":)!
Speaking of amazing summer vacations, I just got back from our yearly trip to Northern Michigan (where Ryan's family has a cottage and condo). There are so many little charming towns, tons of precious "ma and pa" shops, the freshest fish and produce, homemade fudge stores on every corner, and crystal blue lakes everywhere. It's my favorite trip of the year because you really get that small town feel. Anyways... each summer, I never leave town without a suitcase full of my top 3 Michigan "must haves".. I use them year round and love to give them as gifts.. plus when I run out I can easily order online. Here they are (I highly recommend):
There are so many fun flavors and they make such great gifts. The basic 18 year old Traditional Balsamic Vinegar is a staple in my house.. I don't even have to add oil to it on my salads. The vinegars are a great way to add flavor in your cooking without the added calories.. and the oils are very subtle and refreshing...a great way to add variety. Definitely check out the recipes/combinations on their website!
I can't live without Alden Millhouse's "Miracle Blend".. seriously.. I put it on everything. It's a gourmet version of garlic salt, containing: Kosher Salt, Crushed Pepper, Dry Garlic, and Spices. It has no MSG or additives and is so delicious. "Miracle Blend" was my gateway.. now I use a ton of their spices. They are all made in house (which is the cutest little store) and hand packed. Makes great gifts or just for yourself:) Ditch all your spices with MSG and partially hydrogenated oils and stock up on these.. you won't regret it.
This organic coffee company is so good and their descriptions really match the true tastes. I especially love the "Medium Colombian Roast".
"Higher Grounds Trading Co. is fueled by its social mission to advance economic justice worldwide, and driven by a passion for sourcing the highest-quality coffees from around the world."
Check out all the options on their website.
Enjoy!
xoxo,
Kara
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| www.aldenmillhouse.com |
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| www.highergroundstrading.com |
You can't go wrong with either Alden's or Fustini's. We have a ton of both in our pantry - and use them often. The Fustini's are great for homemade salad dressings, and (when I am being totally bad) dip for bread! Also, both companies make great hostess gift packages as well, with a range of either prepackaged or custom options.
ReplyDeletefor sure! I need to interview you jess about your favorite hostess gifts etc.. you are so good at all of that!
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