How To Make the Best Margaritas

Whether it's Cinco de Mayo or National Margarita Day we've got you covered! But before you reach for the limes and tequila, it’s our duty to help you celebrate accordingly with a few simple tips to elevate the most popular cocktail in the United States. Your friends from el Jimador, the No. 1 selling 100 percent blue agave tequila in Mexico, recently commissioned a survey on this traditional tequila cocktail to offer up some unique ways you can enjoy margaritas with your friends this holiday.

Tip #1: Don’t Mess with Muddling

When it comes to unconventional ingredients in margaritas, black raspberry makes the top of the list. But unless you’re bellying up to a downtown craft cocktail bar, nobody has time to mess with muddling. Chambord, a French black raspberry liqueur, is a boozy substitute made with the freshest blackberries and raspberries, to deliver a sweet element that takes your margarita to the next level. Try this recipe:

Black Raspberry Margarita

1 ½ oz el Jimador Tequila

½ oz Triple Sec

3 oz Sour Mix

½ oz Chambord Liquor

In a shaker filled with ice, add ingredients and shake to mix. Pour into margarita glass rimmed with salt (optional). Garnish with a lime or blackberry.

Tip #2: Bring the Heat

Remember when margaritas came in two varieties – with or without salt? 84% of survey respondents proclaimed their interest in trying new types of margaritas. In addition, spicy flavors have been on the rise, with ingredients seemingly never hot enough. Conveniently, you’re bound to have a bottle of Tabasco on the shelf of your fridge door, and it’s well worth pairing with a traditional margarita to kick it up a notch… or three. Try this recipe:

Habanero Margarita

1 ½ oz el Jimador Tequila

½ oz Lime Juice

3 oz Sour Mix

3 Dashes of Tabasco sauce

In a shaker filled with ice, add ingredients and shake to mix. Pour into margarita glass rimmed with salt (optional). Garnish with a lime wedge.

Tip #3: Swap Your Soda for Something Sparkly

We love a nice fizz to our tequila cocktail. In fact, Mexico’s most popular traditional cocktail is the Paloma, which is made with grapefruit soda. However, if you’ve been sticking to flavored soda and seltzer water as your carbonation element, then you’re missing out on a bubbly cocktail companion that you’ll wish you met sooner. Try topping your traditional margarita with champagne, or try the beer-in-margarita concept using champagne mini bottles. Try this recipe:

Korbelrita

1 ½ oz el Jimador Tequila

½ oz Triple Sec

3 oz Sour Mix

187ml Korbel California Champagne

Glass: Pint Glass or Traditional Margarita Glass

In a shaker filled with ice, add ingredients and shake to mix. Pour into a pint glass or a traditional margarita glass rimmed with salt (optional). Flip the Korbel upside down into your glass, or top cocktail with champagne. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Tip #4: Or, Keep it Simple. Because Margaritas Are Best Made With Friends.

Maybe these elevated cocktails aren’t for you, and you’d rather just stick to the classic. The good news is that no matter which fruits, flavors, spices you add to your cocktail this National Margarita Day, the best margaritas are made with friends and el Jimador. All you need is five-dozen of the spiciest chicken wings in town, a table that seats 10 of your closest friends, and a bottle of el Jimador. Try this recipe:

Jimirita

1 ½ oz el Jimador Tequila  

½ oz Triple Sec

3 oz Sour Mix

In a shaker filled with ice, add ingredients and shake to mix. Pour into margarita glass rimmed with salt (optional). Garnish with a lime wedge.

About el Jimador Tequila
From Casa Herradura, established in 1870, el Jimador is a premium, authentic 100 percent agave tequila that captures the spirit of real tequila. The name el Jimador honors the men who harvest the locally grown agave with great pride and care. Since its introduction in 1994, el Jimador has become the No. 1 selling 100% agave tequila in Mexico*. To learn more about el Jimador, visit www.eljimador.com.  

Alc. 40% by Vol. (80 proof) Tequila, Imported by Brown-Forman, Louisville, KY

el Jimador Tequila encourages you to drink responsibly.

Pacific Play Tent

You can read more about my review here ONE WINNER will win the Pacific Play Clubhouse House Tent (Value $77.95) Sponsored by: Pacific Play Tent Hosted by: Night Helper Open to: USA only 18yrs. + Start date: 02/19-02/28 The winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply. a Rafflecopter giveaway Disclosure: We reserve the right to make revisions, to cancel, or suspend this contest for any reason. We are not associated with any of the companies named above. The odds of winning are based on the number of entries received Open to the US 18+ only. Confirmed Winner(s) (by Random.org) will be contacted by email. Winner(s) have 24 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law. The sponsor(s) will be responsible for product shipment to winner(s) of this giveaway. Night Helper Blog (and any other blog participating) is not responsible for product shipment/delivery. This event is in no way administered, sponsored, or endorsed by, or associated with, Facebook and/or Twitter, Google, Pinterest. This disclosure is done in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements. Entrants must only enter with either one email address, IP address and/or Facebook account, anyone found violating these rules will be disqualified. It is at the sole discretion of the admin of the giveaway if the winner has met the rules or not.

Modern Gifting Etiquette Explained

(Image via PixaBay)

Etiquette, in some ways, seems like a remnant from a bygone age. It's depicted in historical films, showing general confusion over which fork to use and whether to address the Queen as "mam" or "marm". Confusing and something to be left behind - but perhaps it has a place in the modern world?

We have replaced standardized etiquette that could be written about in books with more of a general "is this okay?" level. Everyone has different opinions on things like thank-you notes and how to address someone professionally, which complicates the matter even further.

One aspect to focus on is birthdays. More specifically, what's suitable for birthdays. When should you make a fuss and arrange a big celebration? When is a card acceptable - and when can just a text message suffice? We're all busy people trying to get to grips with a brave new world, so rather than fretting, here's a general guide that should be able to save you from a few social faux pas.

Happy Birthday To... A Colleague At Work

You don't know them well, though you've spoken a few times and consider the relationship friendly. Most of your conversations have been about work with the occasional mention of family. They're an acquaintance, but not a friend.

What's Suitable? If there's an office card, put your name to it with a friendly message. If it's not been organized, then send them a quick email or just mention it in passing.

Gift? No.

Happy Birthday To... An Old Friend From School

You were close once, but distance and the realities of adult life have meant you don't have time for one another. You haven't often spoken in recent years, but you know from memory it's their birthday and don't want to ignore it.

What's Suitable? If you have their address, a handwritten card would be your best bet. You could just use social media, but if you were once close, then it might feel a little dismissive - better to send an email directly if you can't send a card.

Gift? No

Happy Birthday To... A Member of Your Social Circle

You know one another, have socialized together - but it's never been one-on-one. They're a friend of a friend, and while you get on well, you tend to need a glue of another person to keep you around one another.

What's Suitable? A card and a message on social media. If you want to bring the relationship closer, or they don't live nearby, then you might want to send flowers or make a special effort.

Gift? Possibly, if you want to be closer to them or they sent you something on your birthday.

Happy Birthday To... Your Boss

It's perhaps the most difficult relationship of all and the one that's easiest to get wrong. If you don't send a gift and other employees do, will that reflect badly on you? Or will sending a gift be seen as brown-nosing?

What's Suitable? Whatever everyone else is doing, be it a simple office card or a full party. Talk to your colleagues and, if possible, arrange something from everyone rather than taking the burden on yourself.

Gift? No - unless you are particularly close or they gifted to you on your birthday.

Movie Madness

Welcome to the Movie Madness Giveaway Hop!  We are excited to offer A Date Night Movie Package!  Winner will receive a $25 Fandango  Gift Card and a $25 Olive Garden Gift Card.  This will make a perfect date night for you and your date!
Enter the Rafflecopter below!

Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email or forfeit prizes,  Must live in US to enter and be 18 years or older.


a Rafflecopter giveaway


Thanks to  Powered by Mom and  Mom Does Reviews for hosting this giveaway hop!  Make sure to hop to the other blogs for your chance to win great prizes! 

The Perfect Gift for Valentine's Day

Looking for that perfect gift for Valentine's Day?  Of course, Teleflora has you covered!  I received the  Love's Passion Bouquet by Teleflora and it is beautiful! It was full of red roses, red tulips, and white lilies in a gorgeous Love's Passion red vase.  I was in awe of the beauty of this arrangement. 

Teleflora always delivers the most beautiful flowers.   Since every Teleflora bouquet is professionally-arranged by a local florist, you can guarantee that every petal of your bouquet is freshly cut, carefully prepared and hand-made with love. Celebrate your loved ones with Teleflora’s “Hand-Made with Love” Valentine’s Day  this year with a floral gift that arrives straight from YOUR heart.

Check out the bouquets below and order your favorite from Teleflora or call (800)-493-5610.

  

Teleflora’s Shining Heart Bouquet (Available on Teleflora.com for $79.95)

Lavish your Valentine with a gift that arrives straight from the heart! This radiant and stylish bouquet presents a vibrant mixed array of rich, red roses, purple alstromeria, huckleberry, and other lush floral stems professionally arranged within a shimmering red keepsake vase with satin finish that’s adorned with a sparkling rhinestone heart.          

Love’s Passion Bouquet by Teleflora (Available on Teleflora.com for $99.95)

Heat up the romance and passion with this stunning floral arrangement that is sure to capture your Valentine’s attention. This striking bouquet features a bountiful display of classic red roses, tulips, and white Asiatic lilies nestled within an elegant, luscious red glass vase with a modern twist design for your sophisticated lady.

 

Teleflora’s True Lovelies Bouquet (Available on Teleflora.com for $54.95)

Deliver a special surprise to your Valentine sweetheart with this delightful bouquet that will make their heart dance knowing they are “loved.”  This pretty pink bouquet dazzles with deep red roses, delicate pink alstroemeria, seeded eucalyptus, and other fresh blooms that arrive in a feminine, blush-pink playful keepsake vase with gold metallic script.

 

Teleflora’s Swirling Heart Bouquet (Available on Teleflora.com for $54.95)

Celebrating a beloved friendship or that cherished family member that is closest to your heart, gift them with this charming floral bouquet that is sure to brighten their day and deliver a smile. Dark pink and red roses and carnations present a chic ombre floral look that arrives in a glazed stoneware container featuring an artisanal-style heart design.

A photo posted by CyndieReviewz (@cyndienzach) on Jan 26, 2017 at 1:04pm PST

The Great American Road Trip

Image source

It’s pretty much at the top of everyone’s bucket list; taking on one of America’s incredible highway’s. It is part and parcel of having everything anyone could possibly ever hope to see in one giant country. It is also one of those things that people have been spurred on to do through the glamour and grit of films, music, books and even rock n’ roll. They’ve all had their part to play whether it be Kerouac or Dylan, or even Dennis Hopper. It’s a coming of age thing that we’ve all got to do at some point, the problem is picking the right one, and maybe even the right car. But don’t worry, that’s where we come in. We’re here to help you decide on which terrafirma you’re gonna tear across. Yeehaw.

Dana Point to Leggett

This is the almighty California State Route 1, which runs along the Pacific ocean from San Diego right into Redwood country. It’s what most of us can only describe as epic. What’s more, if you’re looking for a far from strenuous introduction into life on the road, then this is the one for you. That doesn’t mean it is boring, quite the opposite. It’s exciting, and that is because there is a ton of stuff to see, especially in the summer. There’s Route 101, the Point Reyes National Seashore, Malibu and Santa Monica, and even a touch of Long Beach. So get yourself a slick convertible, maybe even a classic pony car and enjoy what is on display.

Image source

LA to Vegas

It’s one of the greatest experiences any of us can hope to live and tell; jumping in a car and driving off to the city of sins with nothing more than overnight bag and pink showgirl headdress. It’s a weekend away with you and your closest friends, your partner and theirs too. Of course, the drive itself is pretty much nothing but 300 miles of desert, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun. Especially if you all decide to chip in and do it properly. No, we’re not talking about getting a limo. We’re talking about shofur bus; we’re talking and booking yourself a tour bus; turning up at Vegas in the same fashion The Rolling Stones would can only be awesome.

Coast to Coast

This is a fantasy for many. It’s the very truest road trip, it’s one for the purists; driving from one coast of the US to the other, taking in approximately 3,500 miles of tarmac along the way. Of course there are numerous different routes you can take, but we recommend you tackle Route 20, which covers Newport and Oregon and Boston, as well as Yellowstone. It’s hard to say what makes this a must-do, but it definitely has something to do with the fact you’re looking at two-three weeks on the road, not to mention it’s pretty fast and easy too.

Miami to Key West

This is one of the shortest you can do, but given it touches the Everglades and rolls onto the Ocean Highway, it is one of the most awe-inspiring road trips anyone can take. And we haven’t even mentioned the jewel in the crown; the Seven Mile Bridge. No points for guessing how long it is.

BFF: Best Friends For... Parties Of Course!

There is a common misconception that adult parties have to be either completely “bowtie and little black dress” formal, or a roller coaster of cocktails and free spirits that will keep you lying down in bed for the rest of the weekend. In truth, parties can be fun and exciting at all age, and there’s nothing that says that you can’t have amazing game parties as an adult. After all, why should all the fun be reserved to kids? Unfortunately, most adults fall into the trap of formal gatherings and not knowing any better. So maybe you could use this year to start a new trend in town: Create the perfect socialite adult party.  

A toast to a great party!

Get Your Preps Ready

Approach a party like any big project: Sit down and get down to the planning. Make a list of friends to invite, and think about what you want to serve your guests. Savory Shrimp Sliders are, for instance, always a hit at a buffet party, assuming you invite a manageable number of friends! But you can also prepare a pick and mix buffet, with a lot of fresh vegetables, sauces, and a few healthy proteins and leave it to each guest to prepare their plate. For smaller parties, with only a handful of guests, you can get a nice stew ready or a big dish of homemade lasagna that will please everyone! Make sure to have your food planned a few days before the party is due.

What Kind Of Party?

It’s always difficult to decide on a theme, or a good reason if you prefer, for the party. However, you will find plenty of ideas if you take the time to make a list of things you, your friends, and relatives enjoy: From birthday parties to baby showers, there are a lot of occasions throughout the year to come together and have fun. If nothing fits, what is stopping you from throwing a party just for fun?

After The Party

Don’t let the happy memories die once the party is over! Keeping track of your parties via elegant and exciting pictures will definitely attract you a lot of attention on your favorite social media platforms, and especially Instagram and Facebook. Remember: The more you spread the word about the party, the more friends will want to join you next time! Also, it’s good to make your guests feel wanted, with the use of personalized cards to invite them and thank them for their visit.

Make It A New Habit

Finally, parties are special, but they don’t have to be rare: Can you have enough of a good thing? You could start growing a group of friends to organize adult parties with. From a Hollywood themed party to follow the Oscars ceremony to a celebration of love, you will find plenty of occasions to get together and have fun throughout the year. And why not get an agenda ready with a couple of trusted friends to share the organization of a new form of adult fun?