Hey there Beauty Buffs! I just have to tell you about an amazing experience I had this past weekend in NYC..I was delighted to be invited to tour the Fresh Beauty flagship location in Union Square and learn more about this cult-favorite line. Founder Lev Glazman and I have a show on Sunday and it was a great opportunity to dig deeper into this indulgent line of beauty and skincare products!

I arrived and was greeted by Lev and his warm and gracious staff. You can tell they are so passionate about what they do. Lev himself has a lifetime of passion for beauty, skincare, and fragrance that drives everything he does. His Russian heritage is overflowing with stories of nature-based remedies and aromatherapies that he took with him as he and co-founder Alina Roytberg opened their first apothecary in 1991.

 I snapped pics, sampled fragrances, chatted with staff and even took a photo with Lev to add to their “Fresh Family Album,” a huge volume to which photos and stories are added daily by visitors who come from afar to pick up coveted soaps, perfumes, lotions, skin care regimens and more.

After that, Lev and I grabbed a quick lunch, did some window shopping, and then it was time for the exclamation point on my whole day…a Fresh Facial! 45 minutes of aromatherapy, application of Fresh’s hero products, and soothing sounds at the Fresh spa. I am so grateful for having had that experience!

 Lev was so gracious and so excited about our upcoming show…as am I!! Have you heard about the excitement surrounding the launch of Fresh’s latest fragrance, Fresh Life?? It’s generating mad buzz at QVC and I’ll have it in my lineup at 1am on Sunday! In the meantime, check out my pics and I’ll see you soon!

Fall is in the air and like everyone else, I'm soaking up the last of the summer sun! One thing I always loved about this time of year was back to school shopping for my kids. New outfits and school supplies to help put their best foot forward always made me happy and are some of my best memories! With no little ones to shop for, I still look at fall as a fresh start from the lazy days of summer.

It's my favorite time of year to replenish my wardrobe and transition from summer tees to turtle necks and long sleeves. My color palette changes from whites and brights to warm, rich browns, grays, and spice tones.

So now, instead of the smell of pencil shavings, I treat myself to new fall fashion items to mix with the smell of my morning coffee!  

Love my Best Selling Faux Leather jacket A216451! Classic cool styling with an update look and of course extremely versatile and comfortable!

Paired with my Milano Knit pants A226868 (in Regular, Tall and Petite). These beautiful pants have a straight-leg modern look with the comfort of a soft knit and elastic waistband.

Add my Best Seller Liquid Necklace J279167 for a finished look that will keep you stylish during the changing temperatures!

Another favorite of mine for fall is my Essential Ponte Knit Cardigan and Tank Set A226135. This two for one classic Cardigan and Tank will transition your outfit from work to a night out.

How will you treat yourself to a fresh start this fall? Do you have any children or grandchildren getting ready for back to school? I love hearing from you!  

Watch for new pieces to transition from summer to fall Thursday 9am ET, Friday 4am ET and 5pm ET, Sunday 4pm ET and 10pm ET.

See you then!

xoxo,

Susan

Hi again my girls! I'm so excited to bring you an amazing item on Monday, just in time for Fall. It's the MOST gorgeous jacquard cardigan. EVER!!!! As you know, I love cooler weather, and this sweater sort of captures my favorite season in the best way. There's something about it that's romantic, and cozy, but also elegant. I know you're going to love it. We've made it in one of your favorite silhouettes and fabrications, and of course it comes in AMAZING colors: Black, Camel, Grey, Blue, and Red.

I can't even think about picking a favorite. Also the pattern is just so new and fresh. You can't miss this one girls! It pairs so perfectly with our new 24/7 denim – an easy look that's polished and put together in the most effortless way. It's really genius. And you know I love a cardigan so much because of the many ways it can be worn – it's a versatile must-have for your wardrobe.

Check out Program Host Courtney Cason's fab styling!

If you're new to my collection, this piece is a great place to start. The flattering shape will make you come back for more. I SWEAR. It's also a piece that so wonderfully expresses my brand — the print, the shape, the ease, and really the ability for the pieces to transition through the seasons and mix and match with everything else you're wearing. 

I'm so excited to spend the day with you on Monday  - I hope you'll tune in! 

-Isaac 

I really love home decorating and when I found out I was having a baby girl I was so excited to design her nursery. Here are some photos, along with my decorating ideas, of Lauder Rose’s nursery:

Color Palette
For my baby girl, I decided on a color palette of soft grays and pinks because they feel very calm and cozy. For an accent wall, I put up a soft gray wallpaper with silver detail that shines nicely when the sun comes through the window. I added a few accessories of pink.

Theme and Decals
Decorating themes are so fun to pick out. For Lauder’s room, I was inspired by the two juliet balconies in her room that open up to the beautiful tree tops from our yard. This foliage led me to the theme of birds and trees. I found this great decal of a tree to put up above her crib. 

Art Work
I have a three-year-old son so I really wanted to include him in the decorating and preparing of his sister’s new room. He was so excited and worked very hard on making artwork that he thought she would enjoy. I framed the pictures all in white frames and put them on the wall.

Soft Lighting and Fresh Flowers

Finally, I think simple touches like soft lighting and fresh flowers can help with the baby’s sleeping!

Comfy Chair

For nursing and overall baby cuddling, a big comfy chair was must for me. I found this amazing soft gray chair and ottoman that rock and glide.

If you ever need decorating inspiration, another great place is to ask your friends and family. I would love to hear how some of you decorated your nurseries or some of your design tips!

Xo,

Sarah

Ladies, it's time for another round of "Denim and Company Designer Vs Diva" and we need your votes!! Once again, Denim and Company Lead Designer, Gary and Yours Truly, the resident Denim Diva, have squared off with two of our FAVORITE Denim and Company apparel pieces....both new for the upcoming Fall 2013 Season! We love both of these tops and we want to know, which one do YOU love the most !?!? We actually do hope you love BOTH, and both WILL be available for you to order at the end of the voting period! But for now, we'd love for you to pick the one that is your favorite, between the two! Cast your vote below the descriptions of both brand new Denim and Company tops, and please add your comments too, after you've voted!! You know how we love hearing your feedback!!

We will reveal the winning vote-getter, along with which of US picked which TOP, on Tuesday, August 27th, in our 11am Denim and Company show!

Meanwhile....we need YOUR vote!!  So check out the contestants below, and choose your favorite! Will it be the Designer's Pick or the Diva's Pick, for YOU??  :-)  

Thanks for participating.....it's all in GOOD DENIM AND COMPANY FUN!!

FIRST ITEM:

Item number A235183....Denim and Company "Active" Dot Print French Terry Sweatshirt

This new top is part of our latest collection within Denim and Company, called "Denim and Company ACTIVE".  These items feature a comfort AND style that you typically won't find with other brands of "active wear". They are not what you'd wear to the gym or to yoga class, but do have more style and fashion-ality, and still give you the comfort of your favorite active wear, even if you're just planning on "sitting pretty"!!

This particular top features a fun DOT print in beautiful bright Fall colors, in one of your favorite fabrics, French Terry, which is 95% cotton, and 5% spandex.   It has a pullover style, with a crew neckline, long sleeves, and a straight bottom banded hem, that is not "fitted or tight".  The top, over all, has a RELAXED fit, and is generously cut for maximum wearing ease. It would be a great look with jeans, leggings, corduroys or khakis, worn with flats, moccasins, loafers, sneakers or your favorite pair of casual boots!

SECOND ITEM:

Item number A235175....Denim and Company 3/4 Sleeve Animal Print Top with Keyhole Detail

 This new top is sure to become a favorite in your closet this Fall, in timeless animal print and with many of your favorite details....3/4 length sleeves, delicious Fall 2013 colors, comfy, stretchy 95% cotton and 5% spandex fabric content, along with that easy care, easy wear machine wash and tumble dry!  The neckline is terrific, in a scoop neck style with soft gathering detail, which is so flattering and pretty! The back of this top also features a wonderful keyhole detail!  This top is a semi-fitted style, which is not too tight fitting, but still follows the lines of your figure with added wearing ease. Animal print belongs in your closet this Fall season, and here is a fun new way to wear it, with all the comfort of your favorite t-shirts, yet with a lot more style!

Wear this with jeans and trousers, layer it with your favorite cardigans or jackets, and finish your outfit with your favorite boots, shooties, ballet flats or slip-ons!

Overall, Gary and I feel that both of these great tops are Casual and Comfortable, and Versatile enough to wear to work or for weekend fun! They both feature a really fun print, which is a Fall 2013 "Must Have" for tops! They are both perfect for wearing now and right into the Fall season! So have fun, and pick YOUR favorite!! It's Designer Vs Diva....Round Four!!

See you soon for Denim and Company!

Your fellow Denim Diva,

Carolyn :)

Hello, foodies…
 
It’s been another busy day so far! This morning I met with some folks here at QVC to discuss strategy for our special Corky’s TSV this Wednesday night. More on that this Monday. In the meantime, how would you like a big helping of Grits 'N Q? And maybe a side of homemade coleslaw?
 

 
Looks good, right? Many thanks to Jimmy Stovall for sharing his recipe! So what was I saying? Oh yes, my day! After the meeting, I headed to makeup because we shot a how-to video on pressure cooking! So many of you at home have a pressure cooker and we’re often asked for pressure cooker recipes and tips. Even those of you who don’t have a pressure cooker seem to be curious…is it safe? Is it as easy as it looks? To the not-yet-believers, I’d give a whole hearted yes. And, for the believers, know you’ve been heard. We’re planning on bringing you lots of pressure cooker recipes. Look for the how-to video next month.
 

 

 
So now I’m sitting in our little host lobby area at QVC “penning” this blog until I head to the gym in an hour. I don’t know about you, but the gym is not my favorite place. I do it because it’s good for my health, and I really do feel better when I’m done exercising, but I’d much rather be home on my easy chair channel surfing. At least I can watch the news while I’m on the treadmill. How do you keep yourself entertained at the gym?
 
Now—onto this Sunday’s In the Kitchen with David! Our garden-to-table theme continues as we make a classic summer side dish: Summer Broccoli Salad.
 

 
Summer Broccoli Salad
 
This recipe is prepared with the Prepology® 4-Piece Nonstick Knife Set with 4 Cutting Mats (K35540).
 
Go to David's Recipe Item Page for the full list of items that David has used in his recipes.
 
Ingredients:

Dressing:
 
•    1/2 cup buttermilk
•    1/2 cup mayonnaise
•    1/2 cup sour cream
•    1 tsp garlic, minced
•    2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
•    2 Tbsp fresh dill, chopped
•    2 Tbsp fresh chives, chopped
•    1/4 tsp onion powder
•    1/4 tsp kosher salt
•    1/8 tsp ground black pepper
•    1-1/2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
•    1 tsp sugar
 
Salad:
 
•    3 broccoli heads with stems
•    1 cup carrots, grated
•    1/2 cup red onion, chopped
•    1/4 cup dried cranberries
•    1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
•    1/4 cup dry roasted sunflower seeds
•    3/4 cup sharp Cheddar cheese, grated
•    4 thick-cut slices cooked bacon (or 8 regular slices), chopped in small pieces
 
Directions:
 
1.    To prepare the dressing, combine all of the ingredients in a large bowl.
 
2.    To prepare the salad, remove the broccoli heads from the stems and cut into tiny florets. (Do not discard stems.) Add the broccoli to the bowl with the dressing. Peel the tough outer skin from the stems with a paring knife and then roughly chop or grate the stems on a box grater. Add them to the bowl with the florets and dressing.
 
3.    Add the rest of the salad ingredients to the bowl and toss until completely coated with the prepared dressing. Place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate, allowing it to marinate for 12-24 hours. Toss once or twice during marinating time. Serve chilled.
 
Foodies, imagine that salad with my Aloha Chicken or Grilled Stuffed Flank Steak. And what about my Grilled Peaches & Ice Cream for dessert! Talk about TASTY! There’s my dinner for tomorrow night…tonight I’ll be working on the cookbook. It’s a Chinese takeout night for me!
 
For your blog question today, tell me what have been your favorite recipes so far this summer? Have you made my Grilled Peaches & Ice Cream? Or, did we get your attention with a more recent recipe like my Carrot Cake Ice Cream Cupcakes or Fried Green Tomatoes? I’ll see you on Sunday at Noon ET foodies.
 
Keep it flavorful!
—David

Ladies, it's time for another round of Denim & Co.’s Designer vs. Diva, and we need your votes!! Once again, Denim & Co. Lead Designer, Gary, and yours truly, the resident Denim Diva, have squared off with two of our FAVORITE Denim & Co. apparel pieces, which are both new for the upcoming Fall 2013 Season! We love both of these tops, and we want to know…which one do YOU love more!?!? We'd love for you to pick the one that is your favorite, between the two! Cast your vote in the poll below the descriptions of both brand-new Denim & Co. tops, and, after you’ve voted, please add your comments in the Comments section at the bottom of the blog!! You know how we love hearing your feedback!!

You'll have one week to vote and leave your comments. Voting ends on Tuesday, August 20^th at 11:59 PM ET! We will reveal the winning vote-getter, along with which of US picked which TOP, on Tuesday, August 27th, in our 11 AM ET Denim & Co. show! After we announce the winner on-air during the show, you'll be able to purchase one or both tops, if you so desire, or you can shop them now online before they air (click on the descriptions below) to make sure you get the size and color that you want!

We need YOUR vote!! So check out the contestants below, and choose your favorite! Will it be the Designer's Pick or the Diva's Pick, for YOU???

Thanks for participating…it's all in GOOD DENIM & CO. FUN!!

FIRST ITEM:

Denim & Co. Active Dot Print French Terry Sweatshirt

This new top is part of our latest collection within Denim & Co. called "Denim & Co. ACTIVE". These items feature a comfort AND style that you typically won't find with other brands of "active wear". They are not what you'd wear to the gym or to yoga class, but they do have more style and fashion-ality and still give you the comfort of your favorite active wear, even if you're just planning on "sitting pretty"!!

This particular top features a fun DOT print in beautiful rich fall colors in one of your favorite fabrics, French Terry, which is a 95% cotton/5% Spandex blend. It has a pullover style with a crew neckline, long sleeves, and a straight bottom banded hem that is not "fitted” or “tight". The top, overall, has a RELAXED fit and is generously cut for maximum wearing ease. It would be a great look with jeans, leggings, corduroys, or khakis and with flats, moccasins, loafers, sneakers, or your favorite pair of casual boots!

SECOND ITEM:

Denim & Co. 3/4 Sleeve Animal Print Top with Keyhole Detail

This new top is sure to become a favorite in your closet this fall with its timeless animal print and many of your favorite details: ¾-length sleeves; delicious Fall 2013 colors; comfy, stretchy 95% cotton/5% Spandex fabric content; and easy care, easy wear machine wash and tumble dry! The neckline is terrific and features a scoop neck style with soft gathering detail that is so flattering and pretty! The back of this top also features a wonderful keyhole detail! This top is a semi-fitted style, which is not too tight fitting, but still follows the lines of your figure with added wearing ease. Animal print belongs in your closet this fall season, and here is a fun new way to wear it, with all the comfort of your favorite t-shirts, yet with a lot more style! Wear this with jeans and trousers, layer it with your favorite cardigans or jackets, and finish your outfit with your favorite boots, shooties, ballet flats or slip-ons!

Gary and I feel that both of these great tops are casual and comfortable, yet versatile enough to wear to work or for weekend fun! They both feature a really fun print, which is a Fall 2013 "Must-Have" for tops! They are both perfect for wearing now and right into the fall season! So have fun, and pick YOUR favorite!! It's Designer vs. Diva…Round Four!!

See you soon for Denim & Co.!

Your fellow Denim Diva,

Carolyn

Shop the complete Denim & Co. collection.

Read our Denim & Co. Designer Gary’s blog.

Hello, Denim Divas!

I really get excited this time of year when we start thinking about a new season and new fashions. This week, I put together three of my favorite pieces from Denim & Co.and created a sketch showing how great they look together. The jacket is our Denim & Co. One Button Leather Jacket with Pintuck Detailin Dark Green, the top is our Denim & Co. Essentials 3/4 Sleeve V-Neck T-Shirt in True Purple, and the pants are our Denim & Co. "How Comfy" Boot Cut Knit Jeans in Grey.

Check out the individual pieces and let me know what your favorite outfit from Denim & Co is! I’d love to hear from you!

Denim & Co. One Button Leather Jacket with Pintuck Detail

Denim & Co. Essentials 3/4 Sleeve V-Neck T-Shirt

Denim & Co. "How Comfy" Boot Cut Knit Jeans

Hello my LCNY fashionistas!

How are you? I hope you have been enjoying your summer. As far as I am concerned, once again it has gone by way too quickly. Since here at the Q we have switched into fall mode and wear flip-flops when we’re not at work and see boots and sweaters at work, my state of mind gets confused.

A quick Davies Update: The college visits for Kevin are completed, and now he’ll be starting the first of September with the application process. Hopefully he will be like his sisters and just sit down and get it done. Meg and Matt are newly engaged, and both of them have taken new jobs and are moving to the D.C. area. I am very excited for them with this new beginning, but, I am not going to lie, I have a heavy heart with my baby moving away. Sarah and Bryan are busy working on their new home and settling in to married life. Larry returned from Brazil safe and sound with many tales and adventures. I have been busy playing tennis and annoying all of the fabulous golfers probably wishing I would take more lessons. Truth be told, my golf clubs are cute and my LCNY argyle cardigan absolutely would fool you in to thinking I am a pro. On the dating front - yes, I did say dating – I am a work in progress, but I have been seeing the gentleman who escorted me to the Lung Cancer Gala in April. We have a very nice time together. That is the update, my friends. Feel free to share yours with us.

Exciting news for this Wednesday’s show…it’s a TWO-HOUR show!!! Yeah, you asked and we deliver! We will have seven new items for our Wednesday girlfriends. I put an outfit together that I think you will like. I’m pairing our Liz Claiborne New York 3/4 Sleeve Patchwork Print Knit T-Shirt with our Jackie Straight Leg Twill Pants, Stretch Twill Jacket with Smocked Waist, and NEW Liz Claiborne New York Print & Solid Flip Strap Watch. These are great transitional pieces that you will FALL in love with!

Bring your coffee and your friendship. See you on Wednesday at 9 AM ET.

Linda :)

Shop the complete Liz Claiborne New York collection.

Hi PM Stylers, How are you? As I write this blog, I’m sipping on Throat Coat tea- my new drink obsession.  As many of you know- I lost my voice last week during one of my linen shows and it’s taken a lot longer to recover than I thought it would.  It’s funny that you don’t realize how much you talk until you can’t speak for a little while…  but sometimes that’s a good thing! 

Case in point… This weekend Aaron and I decided to paint our kitchen as a final step to the Kitchen reno we had been working on this year.  I don’t know if It’s because I’m Greek that I wanted my kitchen to be painted a Mediterranean color, but I was pretty sold on the idea of it; I even convinced Aaron.  So we went the traditional route and painted samples on the wall and narrowed it down to two colors, one with a slight orange/camel/sunset vibe (my choice) and one that looked a little on the bright buttercup side (Aaron’s choice).  I know what you must be thinking; those seem like interesting choices to paint a kitchen.   If only we knew then, what we knew now.    We decided that my choice seemed like the way to go, partly because it was the most neutral of the choices.  As Aaron finished up the first coat on one of the walls- I was glad I had lost my voice.  I wasn’t ready to tell him we had made the wrong decision on paint colors. .  We didn’t make it to the second wall before I got the “Hun- I don’t want to upset you, but I’m thinking this may not have been the right choice for the kitchen.”  What I couldn’t say was “You had me at goodbye at the very first stroke of that color!”  I simply nodded my head and then he began to persuade me to go with this choice for the kitchen.  It’s not that I wasn’t listening… but he could of said anything about his color choice and I would have agreed… We needed to get my color choice off the wall and fast. It was that bad. 

So as I slept in on Sunday after my shift at work, Aaron started painting the kitchen and when I came downstairs, for the second time in two days, I was glad I lost my voice- His choice was equally as bad.  He turned around and smiled at me and said, “It’s a little brighter than I thought it would be” (We both agreed later that saying that was the understatement of the century ).  I just smiled and got my throat coat tea ready as we both became blinded by the color of the paint choice.  We weren’t going to let it get the best of us- so we decided we would finish the kitchen. That might have been a good thing or a bad thing.  Good that there was no evidence of the color choice gone wrong on my part; Bad because now we have a kitchen that brought up Cher’s hit song “If I Could Turn Back Time” because we turned back time alright… now we’re not sure if we’re living in a paint color that’s perfect for the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, or 80’s.  You can be the judge… here are some photos for your enjoyment.  And by the way… these pictures don’t due the colors justice. Thinking blindingly bright.

Beauty Obsession: 613 by Chaz Dean

I know by now y’all have seen me do some pretty crazy things with my hair.  Up, down, Flat ironed, curled… I have always been up for something new when it comes to styling my hair; but with that came damaging my hair in one way or another.  About six months ago, I had my breaking point.  Something needed to change… either I needed to wear my hair simply blown out or I needed to be proactive in treating my hair better so that I could keep styling it new ways. 

In walks 613 into my hair care life.  613 is like WEN on steroids, it takes your WEN to a whole other level.  Think of it like a daily treatment; that’s how I use mine.  As much as I love remoisting from WEN- it takes about 45 minutes or overnight to do and sometimes I forget (Don’t tell Chaz ) or when I carve out time to do it… my schedule just builds up.  I needed something daily so that I could maintain my hair.  I use 613 in conjunction with my tea tree cleansing conditioner.  I squeeze a good-sized dollop into my hands (I lost my pump for this bottle- don’t ask how because even I was surprised how I managed to do that) and mix it in with my tea tree for both cleanses.   Here’s what I noticed after the first use- my hair was incredibly shiny… like the shine you get after you have color put on.  The texture of my hair felt silkier- like it had something coating each strand.  Overtime- I noticed that my hair was becoming easier to style… and I think that’s because it had been so well moisturized thanks to 613.  . My hair looks healthier than ever because I am able to treat it 3 times weekly as opposed to once a month and I love that I can continue to style new ways because my hair feels stronger than ever.

Have you tried 613?

PM STYLE:

 This week on PM Style we have our Today’s Special Value from Isaac that I previewed to you last week…. What do you think?  I’m just such a fan of the berry, I think for fall I am going to be living in those color tones!

We also have two incredibly talented stylists and designers in the show, Cristina Ehrlich and ofcourse, the Wicked Witch of the Wardrobe, Jen Rade with brand new items for Fall.  It’s going to be a jam packed show that’s going to have a lot of great pieces to get you excited about the rest of the year J.

That’s it for me; I will see you tonight for PM Style, Wednesday 3-5AM (Kitchen Ideas and George Simonton), Thursday 4-6AM (B. Mak Handbags), and Friday 4-6AM (D & Co and Temp-tations).   Have a great week!!

XO,CC

Hello, foodies…

Since I see you Saturday and Sunday, my weekend usually falls on Monday and Tuesday. So today, I slept till 9. It was WONDERFUL. Then, I came into QVC for a quick health screening and have been doing more cookbook writing for the past few hours. I’m headed the gym in few minutes, but I wanted to get my blog in before I left!

Guess what’s on the menu this Wednesday night, foodies? We’re making my Peach Praline Dumplings with Sweet Cream. Imagine an apple dumpling, except the apple is replaced with a fresh, ripe, juicy peach and stuffed with pecans, brown sugar, and a hint of vanilla. The sweet cream is just the perfect finishing touch. If you’re not hungry enough thinking about it, wait till you see the step-by-step photos! First, though, the recipe.

Peach Praline Dumplings with Sweet Cream 
 
This recipe is prepared with the Prepology® 4-Piece Nonstick Knife Set with 4 Cutting Mats (K35540).
 
Go to David's Recipe Item Page for the full list of items that David has used in his recipes.
 
Ingredients:

Stuffing:
•    1/4 cup sugar
•    1/4 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
•    1 cup toasted pecans, finely chopped
•    1 tsp vanilla extract
•    1 oz butter, melted

Dumplings:
•    2 eggs
•    2 Tbsp water
•    2 frozen puff pastry sheets
•    8 ripe peaches
•    3 Tbsp sugar
 
Sweet Cream:
•    1 pint heavy cream
•    1 cup sugar
 
Directions:
 
1.    To prepare the stuffing, place the sugar, brown sugar, and chopped pecans into a medium-size bowl. Toss the ingredients to distribute evenly. Add in the vanilla and melted butter and mix until well-combined. Set aside.

2.    Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and place a wire cooling rack on top. Lightly coat the paper and rack with cooking spray. Set aside.

3.    Cut the peaches in half, remove the pit, and carefully remove some of the center flesh to create a small pocket. Spoon the praline stuffing into the cavity of each peach half and then pair the halves back together to form a whole peach. Set aside.

4.    Whisk the eggs and 2 Tbsp of water in a small bowl. Set aside.

5.    On a lightly floured surface, roll each puff pastry sheet out until it measures a 12" x 12" square. Cut each puff pastry sheet into four 6" x 6" squares, yielding a total of eight squares with both sheets combined.

6.    Place a stuffed peach in the center of each square. Moisten the corners with a small amount of egg wash. Bring two opposite corners of dough up over the peach and press the corners together. Repeat with the two remaining sides. Do not discard the egg wash. Place the peach dumplings onto the prepared cookie sheet and freeze for 15–20 minutes.

7.    Move an oven rack towards the lower-middle part of the oven and preheat the oven to 400°F. Remove the dumplings from the freezer. Deeply poke the bottom of each dumpling twice in a cross shape. (Be sure to insert the fork all the way through the dough and through part of the peach.) Brush each dumpling with the remaining egg wash and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until golden brown and fork tender.

8.    While the dumplings are baking, mix up the sweet cream. Fit your stand mixer with the whisk attachment. Pour the cream into the bowl and whip until soft peaks form. Then, add the sugar and then whip until stiff.

9.    Allow the dumplings to cool slightly before serving with the sweet cream.

Now, here's how this looks in photos, foodies...



Combine the sugar, brown sugar, and chopped pecans and toss well.

Add in the vanilla and melted butter and mix until well-combined. Set aside.



Foodies, we test and re-test our recipes to ensure they’re spot-on before giving them to you. After we photographed this recipe, it became clear that not only did we need a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper (and sprayed with cooking spray), but we also needed a wire cooling rack on top, as the juice from our peaches made the dough soggy. So don’t forget the rack!



Cut the peaches in half, remove the pit, and carefully remove some of the center flesh to create a small pocket for the filling.



Spoon the praline stuffing into the cavity of each peach half and then pair the halves back together to form a whole peach. Set aside.



Whisk the eggs and 2 Tbsp of water in a small bowl. Set aside. (This is your egg wash, which will make those dumplings a beautiful golden brown.)



On a lightly floured surface, roll each puff pastry sheet out until it measures a 12" x 12" square.



Cut each puff pastry sheet into four 6" x 6" squares, yielding a total of eight squares with both sheets combined.



Place a stuffed peach in the center of each square. Moisten the corners with a small amount of egg wash. (Keep any remaining wash—you’ll need it later.)



Bring two opposite corners of dough up over the peach and press the corners together. Repeat with the two remaining sides. Make the rest of the dumplings.



Place the peach dumplings onto the prepared cookie sheet (remember—they should be on top of the cooling rack). And, freeze for 15–20 minutes.



Move an oven rack towards the lower-middle part of the oven and preheat the oven to 400°F. Remove the dumplings from the freezer.

(This part isn’t photographed, but you’ll need to deeply poke the bottom of each dumpling twice in a cross shape. Be sure to insert the fork all the way through the dough and through part of the peach.)

Then, brush each dumpling with the remaining egg wash and sprinkle with sugar.



Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until golden brown and fork tender. While the dumplings are baking, mix up the sweet cream. Fit your stand mixer with the whisk attachment. Pour the cream into the bowl and whip until soft peaks form. Then, add the sugar and then whip until stiff.



Voila! Before you ask, yes. This is as delicious as it looks. Feel free to skip the sweet cream if you have vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on hand.

Before you rush out for fresh peaches, here's today's blog question: Since we're talking about peaches, tell me about your best peach recipes. Do you make a great peach cobbler? Peach pie? How about peach jam? I'll see you Wednesday at 8pm ET. Now, off to the store with you!

Keep it flavorful!
--David

Hi my friends,

I wanted to share with you a few highlights from last week’s trip to Thailand.

On my first day, I presented our October and December designs along with the inspiration for our new Spring Collections to our QVC buying team.  It’s funny, but even after years of presenting for John Hardy, I still get a little anxious when I show the new designs and concepts for the first time. Luckily, almost every time, whether presenting for a National Retailer or exclusively for QVC, the collections always seem to exceed their expectations, and this time was no different.

Working with the QVC buying team is always such a pleasure and this trip was extra special because I had the pleasure of working with the talented and very kind Peyton Kelley.  He brought such a wealth of knowledge and a unique point of view, especially when it came to selecting the new gemstones for our upcoming shows.  I was thrilled when Peyton told me how impressed he was with the designs and the quality of the gemstones.

Since this particular trip was not an inspiration trip, I was able to go explore more of the daily life of the Thai people.  One of my favorite experiences about working with JAI is having the opportunity to discover the authentic details that make up the fabric of a culture.

This trip I spent three days traveling around the outskirts of Bangkok and exploring the local villages with a guide.  Each trip to the Far East, I learn something new about the culture and heritage of the local artisans.  I wanted to share with you what I learned about the role of karma in the Thai Culture.

Did you know that Thailand is approximately 90% Buddhist?  A portion of the Thai Buddhist belief system is based on the Karma Ethic. It basically states that if you do good things, good things will happen to you.  This is a daily life principle that is to be lived each and every day.

For the Thai people, Karma is not a preordained fate, but more the belief that good or bad deeds, thoughts, and actions will inevitably ripen into results.  Simply stated, you are responsible for the life that you create.  Throughout the day, my guide would point out all the good deeds one could and would do to create positive karma for oneself.

I asked my guide if there was a traditional positive act of kindness that I do to better understand the role of karma in Thai society.  The next morning we woke up early and went to the local market to buy some Thai food. We then traveled to a Buddhist Monastery where I presented food to a Buddhist monk. My guide explained to me, that since the monks have given up all worldly possessions, they rely on the kindness of strangers for their food.  They say, when you offer food to a monk, the karma principle states that you will have a bountiful supply of food throughout your lifetime.  The frequency on which one does good deeds will affect the overall outcome of one’s life.

I love this basic principle for life: do good and good things will come to you.  I was raised to ‘Love thy neighbor as thyself’ but the Thai interpretation of karma offers the ability to have a sort of checks and balance throughout a lifetime.

Please join me on our JAI Jewelry Facebook page.  I would like to encourage each of you to share different acts of kindness that you do and see during your day.  If we share the positive things in our lives, imagine how we can change each other’s lives.  I know many of you do acts of kindness daily without thinking about it, but your act may inspire someone else to follow in your footsteps. What do you say? Let’s change the world one kind act at a time.

Safe travels,

Scott Grimes

Hello, foodies…

I hinted about a special TSV coming up from the folks at Corky’s and tomorrow’s the big day! Starting tonight at Midnight ET, a picnic-perfect, finger-lickin'-good assortment that includes 6 lbs of ribs and 2 lbs of pulled pork is available at an unbeatable price. You pick your sauce with this assortment. There’s Corky’s Original, Honey Barbecue, or for the first time ever, a North Carolina-style BBQ sauce developed from my personal recipe!

So what makes Corky’s so good? Is the barbecue really all it’s cracked up to be? In a word, YES.

I’m kicking off the TSV tonight at Midnight—join me, won’t you?

Keep it flavorful!
—David

Tips for making your French Tips (or any tips) last longer.

I should start by saying that 99% of the time I wear gel nail polish. The gel polish is kind on my own natural nails which gives me the option to wear regular nail polish when I get a hankering for a fashion color. 

Tip #1:  Always paint the French tip BELOW the white part of your natural nail. Since my nails grow so quickly, it gives me a few extra days before my natural nails start to peek out. 

Tip #2:  Your top coat should be clear with a teeny bit of shimmer or a super sheer pink so the growth isn't as noticeable at the base of the nail. 

Mally offers a great nail system, the Mally 24/7 Professional 17pc Gel Nail Polish System, Item Number A228835.

Facebook me and tell me what’s your tip?  

Ok ladies, this sums up my Monday:   I had a 24 hour stomach bug.  My baby girl, Serafina, is starting to crawl and now puts everything in her mouth in a desperate attempt to soothe the 3 teeth coming in at once.  My son discovered the phrase “I don’t like”  so he basically likes nothing. at all.  just because.   My poor husband threw his back out during physical therapy.  Sigh.  And yet, everyone is telling me these are the times to remember!    So when I got home after work I decided I was going to turn this day around and not resort to a quick fix that would leave us feeling guilty.  I was determined  to stay on course with my veggie fest and whip up some quick and easy eggplant parm.   Thank goodness my in-laws live right down the street and were hungry- so our plea for help (along with a dinner invite) worked!  I was able to feed 4 adults with one eggplant.    I served it with Barilla’s veggie pasta, which my son happens to love without knowing he is being filled with zucchini and spinach.  (Proud, sneaky mommy moment)

So here's what I’m calling “Bad Day Eggplant”

Slice an eggplant into thin slices (you will be amazed how many little eggplant “medallions” one eggplant creates)

Dip in egg

Cover in breadcrumbs

Cook in a pan with about a tablespoon of olive oil

Line a cookie sheet with foil **key step for clean up

Place cooked egglplant slices on the cookie sheet

Top with sauce and mozzarella cheese

Bake for about 15-20 mins at 350

In the meantime boil the noodles

Stack the eggplant on top of each other on a plate.  Serve with a pre-mixed salad and some pasta and wah-la dinner is served. It’s amazing how a little eggplant can really “dress” up  a regular old spaghetti night.  And I have to say, it’s nice to have meatless options at times.

I hope this recipe can turn a bad day around for you one day soon.

Karen

DAVID:

Joan, this is your big, fall Today’s Special Value. Tell us: Why houndstooth? Why now?

JOAN:

I am in LOVE. It’s a classic, timeless, beautifully tailored blazer in the season’s must-have pattern, houndstooth.  It’s a jacket that will take you from fall into winter and coordinate with so much in your closet.

DAVID:

And it will look great year after year! Houndstooth is NEVER out of style.

JOAN:

I’ve always loved classic looks. (Heck, I named my company Classics Collection!) So, when we started planning our Today’s Special Value, a houndstooth blazer just seemed so right. Every woman needs that one classic jacket – and this is it!

DAVID:

One word….WOW!  And, AS ALWAYS, your timing is impeccable, Joan. All of the big designers seem to have used houndstooth this season. The quality and look of this jacket reminds me of things we see at much higher price points! And the coordinating items to wear with it are amazing!

JOAN:

Simply add the matching turtleneck sweater, a basic pant or skirt and you are all set. And don’t forget to add a string of pearls!!!!

And a fashion first from my collection: I’ve designed a stunning wrap/stole/scarf in matching houndstooth to wear with my blazer. It’s my must have accessory for the season!

DAVID:

Our Classic Long Sleeve Houndstooth Blazer is fully lined and the details are exquisite. We’ve used faux-suede for the elbow patches, trim on the pockets, and behind the notched collar.  And the fabric was custom woven just for us and feels super-soft and luxurious.

I hope you enjoy wearing this jacket as much as Joan does!!!

PS – I will be chatting right here on this blog on the TSV day. Any questions or comments for Joan? Now is your chance!! See you then.

Join us at the following times on August 19^th:

Monday, August 19^th–

Midnight-2am – Joan Rivers Classics Collection

3-4am – Joan Rivers Classics Collection Clearance w/ David Dangle

10-11am – Joan Rivers Classics Collection

3-5pm – Joan Rivers Classics Collection Join David right here for a live blog chat!

7-9pm – PM Style – Joan will be presenting herGreat Hair Day Fill In Powder

Follow Joan on Twitter at www.twitter.com/joan_rivers

Or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/joanrivers

Or on INSTAGRAM at www.instagram.com/joanrivers

Follow David on Facebook at www.facebook.com/daviddangleqvc

For Joan’s concert, TV and QVC schedule go to www.joanrivers.com

TSV Blog

There is nothing like Super Saturday in the Hamptons; the people, the designers, the deals! QVC was back there again this year with a fantastic 2-hour show full of brand name products and crazy low price tags to support the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund. Designers and celebrities alike flocked to the Q tent to show their support and celebrate such a beautiful cause on such a beautiful day. As always, our backstage crew was on-hand to transform a wide open field into a beautifully dressed set that seemed to scream, “We’re in the Hamptons, baby.”

It was a beautiful day for shopping and raising funds. All that could be seen were blue skies and white tents – inside these white tents was where the real action was taking place.

On day one, Liam and George from our sets crew were essential in turning that plain white tent into a lavish veranda inspired garden, complete with flowing curtains and flowers galore.

On the other side of our main tent, we had an informative Halo station set up, giving everyone the chance to walk over and learn about this powerful little device. Courtney Cason was there interviewing celebs and other shoppers to give our viewers at home a little taste of the frenzy that was Super Saturday!

Along with the main tent, QVC also had a table in the “Sale” tent.  That’s where we spotted our Halo extraordinaires Sarah and Bret.  As expected, they were being swarmed by eager smart-phone owners who were loving the new style and design of the Halo chargers!

Our very own celebrity designer, Lisa Rinna, was also there to present a gorgeous top in the show, as well as serving as the main source of entertainment over on the red carpet. As always, she made sure it was a day full of laughter and love.

After three long days of hard work and a successful show, our backstage crew enjoyed dinner out as a family to celebrate the weekend and the cause. It takes a village, and these are just a few of the many people who make every QVC event not only special to watch, but one to remember.

Thanks to everyone who watched the show and showed their support. We couldn’t do any of it without you!  Super Saturday was such an amazing experience, and our Studio Scoop team feels blessed and honored to be part of such a wonderful event.

Hi Footwear Friends!

This week I had the opportunity to catch up with our Sole Sisters! If you haven’t heard, Sole Sisters is our new show featuring 3 shoe lovers--Mary Beth Roe, Carolyn Gracie, and Antonella Nester.

I asked each Sole Sister a little bit about her shoe style:

Mary Beth Roe

Q. How many shoes are in your closet?

A. More than I should have, but never quite enough!

Q. If I were a shoe, I’d be _________.

A. I would be a classic high heeled pump in beautiful black patent leather.

Q. How would you describe your shoe style?

A. I definitely have many different shoe styles, because I am a multifaceted woman! I have 3 main types of styles: my Mom Style, my Working Woman style, and my On-Air Style.

For my Mom style, I love wearing low-heeled comfortable shoes. I usually wear comfortable Clarks, Skechers and Ryka’s. For my office/Working Woman style I can still wear my Clarks, but I choose styles with a 2” heel or higher. I also enjoy wearing Aerosoles and the Earth brand shoes. They still offer comfort but have a slightly elevated look for work.

My on-air style is more dressy and trend-right, while still being a classic silhouette, just with a modern twist. The styles I wear for on-air include pumps, wedges, and platforms. The heel height is usually around 3”. I have some Clarks Artisans that work great for my on-air style.

But… I must say, no matter what role I am in, I love a great boot! From September to April, it is my favorite shoe to wear, especially ankle boots.

Q. What is your go to pair of shoes right now?

A. Right now I love the Clarks Bendable Ella Chamber leather sandals (A220577). I originally bought one pair, but once I realized how comfortable and versatile they are, I had to go back for more colors!

Q. Do you have a memorable “shoe moment”? Prom shoes? Your old sport cleats? Night out with the girls?

A. As a Cheerleader in high school, I remember falling in LOVE with the Saddle Shoes that we had to wear.  I actually had my mom buy me a second pair, “just in case” something happened to my first pair. They were great shoes!

Here is an old picture...I am the one with the long blonde hair!

Antonella Nester

Q. How many shoes are in your closet?

A. Uhmmmm..., let’s just say I am NEVER without the right shoe for any outfit. I confess, I love shoes and I have a lot of them. Haha

Q. If I were a shoe, I’d be ________________?

A. I’d be something different, not like any other shoe. I would want to look unique. So, it could be a pump, a boot, a sandal, a flat... As long as I was an original.

Q. How would you describe your shoe style?

A. Funky, fun, unique and pretty.

Q. What is your go to pair of shoes right now?

A. Orthaheel is rocking my summer. I really need the arch support with all the running around my family and I have been doing. Do they make a cowboy boot???... I'm going to need one for the fall!!!

Q. Do you have a memorable “shoe moment”? Prom shoes? Your old sport cleats? Night out with the girls?

A. Back in the "Olden Days" (tee hee hee) of Cheerleading, we wore leather saddle shoes. In 7th and 8th grade, I lived in those saddles and they were sooooo comfy. By High School, we switched over to sneakers as our shoe of Cheer choice... I was bummed. Loved my white saddle shoes. 

Carolyn Gracie

Q. How many shoes are in your closet?

A. At least 100 pairs.... In fact, they don't all fit in my closet, so they are also stored in the guest room closets and under the beds!!

Q. If I were a shoe, I’d be ________________?

A. A fabulous, hand sewn, beautifully stitched, ultra comfortable leather or suede driving moccasin!! I love cars and love to drive and I frequently take my dogs along for the ride....so I would also be a driving moc that doubled as a great shoe for walking the dogs when we arrived at the park!

Q. How would you describe your shoe style?

A. I love to wear shoes that are stylish, comfortable, top quality brands (originals...no knock-offs) and made with top quality materials. I love a good value but I don't buy cheap shoes, because my feet wind up paying a steep price! I usually wear flats or wedges, clogs or moccasins. I also love brightly colored sneakers and I love boots.... Riding boots, western boots and wellies!!

Q. What is your go to pair of shoes right now?

A. I have many colors of Isaac Mizrahi snake-embossed loafers (A199007) and also his suede loafers!! I usually wear a pair of those OR a pair of my Orthaheel Tide sandals (A90413) OR a pair of Clarks UnStructured UnLoop slip-ons (A223884), which I love!  They are my Mom's favorite shoes too!

Q. Do you have a memorable “shoe moment”? Prom shoes? Your old sport cleats? Night out with the girls?

A. I remember as a small child, shopping for school shoes every September with my Mom in the StrideRite department at our local department store! My favorites were a pair of black suede saddle shoes! I must have been in first or second grade and I've never forgotten them! I guess I've been shoe crazy for most of my life!!

I really enjoyed learning more about our Sole Sisters' Style, I hope you did too!

Do you have similar memories of saddles shoes? All of our Sole Sisters listed them as one of their favorite shoe memories. I would love to hear some of yours!

Until next time shoe lovers,

Lauren