When the post-holiday doldrums began to creep in a
few years ago, Birmingham designer Lesley McRae resolved to bring a little
life into the winter season. Modifying traditional Valentine's Day
themes, she planned a ladies-only gathering for a few friends and family
members.
Since then, the Cupcakes and Cocktails party has
become an annual affair that celebrates love and friendship and brings a
sweet jolt of chocolate into the lives of all the women who attend.
Together, Lesley and her 9-year-old daughter, Charlotte, select the fare
and décor and have even created a fun pink punch for the younger
guests. "It's wonderful to share this tradition with
her," says Lesley.
The designer uses shades of pink and brown for her
soirée, contrasting bright pops of color with softer hues in the
floral arrangements. The French vanilla, turtle, caramel, and baby
pink-frosted pastries, as well as the signature blush-colored Sweetheart
Cocktail, serve as décor that is both beautiful and delicious.
"Whether or not our guests have a significant
other to celebrate Valentine's Day with, they always know
they'll be loved and welcomed here," says Lesley. Cheers to
that.
See more of Lesley McRae's brown and pink affair
| ONLINE EXTRA: Sweetheart Cocktail Recipe |
Highlands Bar and Grill in Birmingham calls it a
Normandy Cocktail, but hostess Lesley McRae refers to the pink concoction
as a Sweetheart Cocktail at her annual Valentine's Day get-together.
1 1/2 ounces Ketel One vodka
1/2 ounce Calvados
1 ounce apple juice
2 lemon wedges (about 1/3 lemon)
1 teaspoon grenadine
Combine the first three ingredients in a cocktail
shaker filled with ice. Squeeze the lemon wedges into the shaker and
discard the rinds. Add the grenadine and muddle vigorously. Strain into a
chilled martini glass, and enjoy!
Recipe courtesy of Highlands Bar and Grill, 205/939-1400, www.highlandsbarandgrill.com. |
RESOURCES: Lesley McRae, Lesley McRae Interiors,
205/868-4300, www.lesleymcraeinteriors.com; floral design by Jon Martinez,
Bloom, 800/ 944-1794, www.bloomontheweb.com; china by Bernardaud through
Bromberg's, 205/871-3276, www.brombergs.com; glassware by Juliska,
888/414-8448, www.juliska.com; pastries by Pastry Art Bake Shoppe,
205/877-3852; tablecloth fabric by Duralee (T); handmade porcelain hearts by White Flowers Gallery, 205/871-4640.
