Hitchswitch-Blog

Tag: new last name

  • Adventurous Destinations for Adventurous Couples

    Adventurous Destinations for Adventurous Couples

    No matter who you are or where you are in the world, seeing the world is a must. Other than expanding one’s horizon, traveling is important because it provides you with a better perspective on life, on how other people are living. You get the chance to see new things, change your mindset, ideate, observe, and educate yourself on the place’s culture, food, people, and history.  Are you ready to feed your soul with the adventures of the world? Read on.

    Cappadocia, Turkey

    Hot air balloon rides, underground cities, hotel caves, magical sunrises from rooftops.

    Known for its magical “fairy chimneys,” Cappadocia attracts people from all over the globe because of its unique moonlike geological features. There are 36 underground cities here in Cappadocia so you can be certain your stay will be unpredictable, educational, and exciting. You and your partner can go on a one-hour hot air balloon ride just so you can see for yourself why Cappadocia is referred to as “another planet on earth.”

    Whether it’s hiking, biking, camping, or just sightseeing, this is the place that will leave a mark on your soul, and you will never forget it.

    Great Wall of China

    We know the Great Wall of China as…the Great Wall of China.

    It’s a wall that goes on for over 5000 miles so one can’t help but think what is there to do other than walking? We don’t really get the chance to see what goes on this five thousand mile wonder but I can tell you now hiking isn’t the only thing you get to experience. There are several activities including walking at night, camping, have a picnic, running a marathon, and taking a roller coaster cart down those steep hills.

    Can you do all that on a wall? Yes! How else are you going to gain the full China experience? I mean when you tell someone you’re going to visit China, it’s obvious 99% of the time you’re going to see the wall, but how often do you get to say “I camped on the Great Wall of China and ran a marathon” ??

    Read more about the activities here.

    Macchu Picchu

    A name that is known all around the world. This reserved and ancient destination is set in the Andes Mountains in Peru and was home to the Incan people. For all my history majors, this is a must for your bucket list. A mysterious and lost city built of stones and rocks? It’s every archaeologist’s dream! Other than the sacred underground temples and several trails, there are llamas everywhere (WHAT?! A Llama?! He’s supposed to be dead!).

    And let’s be real, who doesn’t love those? Make sure to stop for some Peruvian food before hiking up the mountain! It’s a long way to the top, but that’s how you know the view’s going to be breathtaking.

    Waitomo Caves, New Zealand

    I read New Zealand, and I immediately thought of lakes, botanical gardens, and mountains covered with snow. The thing is, you never really hear about New Zealand, it’s like the middle child who sits there in the corner and minds its own business while everyone else starts shit and builds walls. Waitomo is known for its extensive underground cave systems and its glowworm caves.

    You read right, glowworms.

    They inhabit these caves, and you get to ride in a boat underground so you can see this.

    Now if you’re feeling really adventurous, you can try black water rafting. There’s more than one way to explore these underground water caves, and you’ll agree that they are indeed a sight to behold. Once you get above ground, you can go for walks, have a cup of coffee at a cafe, snap a pic of the beautiful Marokopa Falls, and even head to see some of the country’s rarest birds.

    Mosquito Bay

    Mother Nature strikes again. Honestly, just when you thought you’ve seen it all, here on the island of Puerto Rico is a bioluminescent bay (Isla de Vieques). Don’t let the name scare you off, because this is one of the most beautiful destinations that will end up on your bucket list. There’s bioluminescent plankton living in these waters that cause a chemical reaction and phosphoresces when your hand or anything else hits the water. Basically, the water glows like Rapunzel’s hair.

    This is an experience that will leave you so breathless that the only way to define the adventure is magical.

    If Pixar’s Up has taught me one thing, it’s that adventure is out there. So what are you waiting for? It’s adventure time! And I don’t mean the show.

     

    All photo right and credits reserved for the respective owner(s).  

  • Nicole & Angad

    Nicole & Angad

    How did you meet?

    We met in 2008 at a local ice cream store in the town I grew up in. My best friend was dating someone who worked there and he was friends with my husband who happened to be at the ice cream store that night visiting. We had stopped by on the way home from the gym and never thought he was even remotely interested in me. But, on the way home my best friend got a text asking for my number. We have bonded over ice cream dates ever since!

    First or favorite date?

    I think one of our very first dates was the movies. I was 16 at the time, so going to the movies with a guy was a big deal!

    How did he propose?

    My sister was moving into her first apartment in New York City the weekend of August 4th 2017 and my husband and I decided to drive up from Northern Virginia to help her move (plus it was an excuse to visit a city we both loved). I picked a restaurant to go to dinner that Friday night and we dressed up and went to dinner like we typically did. Afterwards, he told me we were going to meet one of his friends in Long Island for a drink but needed to wait a little bit since he was busy. The uber dropped us off at Gantry Plaza Park in Long Island City and we walked out into the pier, to take some photos of the New York City Skyline and kill some time. I remember him bluntly asking if I was done taking photos and then asking myself “hm that’s strange.” He then pulled out an umbrella and opened it as I was showered with rose petals and then all of a sudden he was down on one knee! When I said yes, I heard a bunch of clapping. It was a public pier and there were a lot of people around, so I just thought it was random people. I turned around to find two of my best friends standing there, who also drove up from VA, my sister, and some of my husband’s best friends. Still in shock, I asked if my parents knew. Turns out all of our family was watching live in real-time on Periscope. It was one of the best nights of my life and I had no idea that night was going to be the night he proposed!

    Martha’s Vineyard Wedding Photography

    Most difficult part of wedding planning process?

    The most difficult part of wedding planning was planning two weddings! My husband is Indian so instead of mashing together our visions, we decided to have two separate weddings a month apart in two completely different states. Our traditional Indian wedding was in August and our traditional American wedding was in September. It was a lot to handle, but I have such distinct memories from each event now and I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.

    How did you decide on a wedding venue?

    For the Indian wedding, we were looking for something that could accommodate a large group of people (we had over 200 guests) but wasn’t the traditional venue everyone in the area had their reception.

    For the American wedding, it came down to availability and price. Getting married on Martha’s Vineyard can be challenging when it comes to venues, but the Yacht Club we went with could not have been more perfect. We had an intimate ceremony on the beach with the most beautiful sunset.  

    Martha’s Vineyard Wedding Photography

    What’s your favorite memory from wedding day?

    Walking down the “aisle” in both ceremonies! For the Indian wedding, I walked into the temple with my parents and my husband’s back was towards me. When he turned around all my nerves just melted away.

    How did HitchSwitch make your post-wedding name change process easier?

    After planning two weddings and buying a house in the same year, to be honest, I was just so tired of figuring things out! HitchSwitch made it easy with the click of the button. All the paperwork was sent to me with detailed instructions and stamped envelopes. If I have a question, the concierge is there to answer any questions I may have.  We will be together 10 years this Christmas and I’m so ready to finally take his last name!

    Martha’s Vineyard Wedding Photography
  • Katelin & Ryan

    Katelin & Ryan

    How did you meet?

    We met through a friend at a concert at Antone’s (local Austin, TX venue).

    First or favorite date?

    Any live music!

    How did he propose?

    Our dog was dressed in a tuxedo, rose petals leading up the stairs and there he was all dressed up with flowers and a ring!

    Most difficult part of wedding planning process?

    Registering!

    How did you decide on a wedding venue?

    Our venue, Mercury Hall, is down the street from our house. A sweet white venue with stained glass that was a church in the 1900’s in Mercury, TX and transferred to Austin in the 70’s.

    What’s your favorite memory from your wedding day?

    Our ceremony. We wrote our own vows, which I was originally hesitant about, but I’m so glad we did and get to cherish those promises forever.

    How did HitchSwitch make your post-wedding name change process easier?

    I would have had no idea where to even begin without HitchSwitch! It lays out all the steps and you feel secure you have completed your name change thoroughly.

     

     

     

  • Top Restaurants Picks From Around The World For Foodie Couples

    Top Restaurants Picks From Around The World For Foodie Couples

    What is it about food that makes it so important and necessary for every celebratory occasion? Other than the fact we need food to live, there are a lot of psychological reasons on why we eat. A lot of times, we eat when we’re sad, happy, and nervous. At times, we eat simply out of boredom!

    The great thing about food is that there isn’t just one kind. The types of cuisines around the world are endless, and if you were to spend your whole life trying to get a taste of it all, it’d be downright impossible. Every food comes with a rich history and culture. You may not think much of it as you’re munching down your second burger, but the food is what unites us and is the only thing capable of gathering loved ones around one table.

    Paging all foodies, paging all foodies!

    I’ve got a list of restaurants you need to add to your bucket list and your next travel plans!

    Peche Seafood Grill

    Other than being awarded the Best New Restaurant in America in 2014, Peche Seafood Grill is your seafood heaven. The menu is said to be inspired by the cooking of South America, Spain, and the Gulf coasts. Ryan Prewitt became the first New Orleans chef to win two James Beard Awards in one night (that’s a big deal in the restaurant industry)! His menu, which majority is cooked over an open wood fire, has got people making reservations weeks before attending. The place is a neighborhood favorite, family friendly, and easy on your wallet. So For all you seafood lovers, make sure to check it out next time you’re in the birthplace of Jazz!

    El Baqueano

    Ok, here is an adventure for your taste pallets. This Argentinian restaurant is well known for its unique menu where they serve game such as llama and alligator. The chef, Fernando Rivarola, sources his ingredients locally and is dedicated to providing a memorable flavor with every plate. The presentation and combination of flavors are said to be unforgettable. The sommelier, Gabriela Lafuente, has worked at some of the world’s top restaurants so you can expect a fine wine and dine experience.


    Osteria Francescana

    This restaurant (recognized as the best restaurant IN THE WORLD) is located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Central-Northern Italy in a small, peaceful city called Modena. Massimo Bottura is known for his big personality and his passion for joining art and food together. Expect to dine in elegance and be surrounded by contemporary artwork. His love for art is apparent as each layer of food explodes with a different flavor. So being the best restaurant in the world, how much will it cost you? Let’s just say you might want to save up and plan ahead if you’re planning on coming to this three Michelin star restaurant.

    Narisawa

    Yoshihiro Narisawa is the head chef of this two Michelin star restaurant in Tokyo. Narisawa spent most of his twenties working in prestigious kitchens in Europe before opening his own restaurant in 1996. His strong connection with nature and the world around him influences the food presented on his menu. Because his surroundings inspire most of his creations, expect to see names such as “Bread of the Forest” and “Evolve with the Forest” as you order. One of the chef’s most popular dishes is his soil soup which is literally created from actual soil from Okinawa. The chef’s dedication is proven in his food, his flavors, and the incredible plate presentation.

    Delaire Graff restaurant

    Finally, a restaurant with a view. As you dine in this upscale restaurant, you will oversee “a sea of vineyards and olive groves planted on the Simonsberg.” Delaire is committed to providing its guests with local food that is presented so beautifully, that your phone camera will do it no justice. You can enjoy your meal inside or out on the open sunny terrace. The view itself is said to be an incredible experience, and the setting of the restaurant is comfortable and artsy. Make sure to reserve ahead of time and on a sunny day so you can gain the whole experience.

    LP’s Quality Meats

    This one is for all my carnivores out there. If you’re a fan of smoked meat and inexpensive, delicious food, this is the place for you. Head chef, Luke Powell takes pride in his smoked and cured meats that are cooked in a southern pride smoker. Even though it’s located in Sydney, you can get a real taste of the south right here in Australia! The menu is simple, sweet, one page long, and full of flavor. This is the perfect atmosphere to grab a few friends, order a rack of ribs, and chug down some beer.

    No matter what kind of foodie you are, there are thousands of restaurants out there that are just waiting to be tried. It doesn’t have to be fancy, or expensive, or even well known. You’d be surprised to find that some of the smallest restaurants offer the biggest flavor.

    All rights and credits reserved to the respective owner(s). (credit for images)

  • Courtney & Matt

    Courtney & Matt

    How did you meet?

    We met in college, over summer break we were both working at an ice cream store (Bruster’s) and it was magic ever since!

    First or favorite date?

    Although we had many unofficial first dates, our official first date was to Olive Garden (I know, so cheesy) and to the movies where we showed up late and were forced to sit in the front row and break our necks looking at up at the screen. It was all worth it in the end ☺

    How did he propose?

    He arranged to take me to Longwood Gardens for their Christmas display just 3 days after Christmas. They have beautiful foliage and architecture and we went under the one terrace and he popped the question, everyone around us was cheering. I later found out his sisters were hiding in the bushes and captured the entire thing in photos. After we walked around for a while, he arranged a surprise engagement party with our closest family members and friends. The entire day was so perfect, I will never forget it.

    Most difficult part of wedding planning process?

    I would say the most difficult thing is trying to keep everything organized and making sure everyone’s schedules were consistent for the day of. When you’re working with so many different vendors, it can be overwhelming keeping it all straight. Also, trying not to go over budget which was tough for me in every avenue, although I wouldn’t change a thing we chose so many amazing vendors!

    How did you decide on a wedding venue?

    We actually only looked at one venue. I had seen photo’s online of the Blue Bell Country Club and just adored the beautiful chandeliers and updates they had done to the ballroom. Everything from the interior to the exterior was amazing especially as we were reaching the tail end of the summer, the landscaping was immaculate.

    What’s your favorite memory from wedding day?

    I think my favorite memory would have to be sitting at our sweetheart table and looking around the room at all the people we know and love and just realizing this would be the only time we would all be under the same roof. It is a feeling like no other.

    How did HitchSwitch make your post-wedding name change process easier?

    I am still going through the process but it was quite amazing to have everything that I needed bundled up in one place. As a working gal, it is tough to find the time to gather all those documents and keep everything organized, I am so grateful I found Hitchswitch! Everyone I tell is so amazed to hear that a service like this actually exists and they wish it was around when they got married!

  • Fitness Post-Baby (Disclosure: It’s Not Gonna Be Easy…)

    Fitness Post-Baby (Disclosure: It’s Not Gonna Be Easy…)

    Like any first time mom, when I was pregnant with my first baby, I asked every question in the book regarding fitness, health, and nutrition. I played for my high school soccer team and ran track in college so you can say I was pretty uneasy when it came to my body changing throughout my pregnancy. Hitting the gym every single day was more than a routine to me, it was a sacred ritual.

    So yes, I was terrified of my body changing.

    When I had finally given birth to my baby girl, I was dead set on restarting my workout regimes and heading back to the gym ASAP.

    Boy, did I speak too soon?

    Reality hit me like a bucket of ice-cold water. It wasn’t the fact that I had lost all muscle definition in my body that had me feeling at an all-time low. It was the aching muscles, the lack of energy, and of course sleep deprivation.

    So there I was at 2 AM, breastfeeding, and eyeing my husband and his useless nipples when I realized something that helped me “awaken” and set me back on the path of body appreciation:

    My body went through nine months of stretching, nurturing, and creating a human being.

    A human being. I did that.

    Once I got that through my thick skull, it finally dawned on me.

    This was going to take some time.

    Easy peasy, lemon squeezy

    After you have convinced yourself you are a superhuman; it’s time to get that “OK” from your doctor. While it is recommended a full six weeks before any physical activity, some women start earlier, and some might even require more than that. Now, when I say take it easy, I do mean: take your time.

    Do not attempt strenuous workouts (I did a HIIT workout after five weeks that set me back a whole month). Your body has never been like this, so you need to learn how it works again from the very beginning. By taking a brisk walk around your block, you’ll have an idea of where you are in regards to fitness. Don’t be afraid to take your newborn out and show them the outside world, too! This is a great way to bond with your newborn and get fit at the same time. Spend the first few weeks simply walking and figuring out your new body. Nonetheless, take it easy.

    Win or lose, listen to your body cues

    You know that quote, “no pain, no gain”? I can’t stand that quote because it’s literally implying that to gain something; you have to suffer through it? Does that even make sense?

    After a woman gives birth, she goes through a bunch of hormonal crap I can’t explain. Now usually, things get better at six weeks, but every woman’s body is different, remember that. Give yourself the time you need and be kind to your body. I get you’re superhuman, but even superheroes need a break sometimes.

    Skip the gym, go for a swim

    Even if swimming isn’t your thing, it is an incredible way to ease into exercise as it is easy on the joints, a fun way to lose weight helps restore muscle tone, and is excellent at helping you regain energy (and God knows you need that). Just don’t go all Michael Phelps on me here and make sure to start slow and moderate. Never hesitate to ask your doctor if you’re uncertain about anything.

    At any rate, always hydrate

    Once you get a sweat going, you need to remember to stay hydrated. Water is incredibly vital for new moms, especially breastfeeding ones. If you have a difficult time drinking water, you can always add fruits or herbs to give it a slight flavor. If that doesn’t help, you can download an app that reminds you now and then to drink up! Staying hydrated helps in preventing you from feeling fatigued all day. Also, every organ in your body needs water to function properly and is essential for lubricating your joints.

    Feels like you’re sinking? It’s the over thinking

    Ok, mom, I know you’re desperate to lose that weight and get back to your pre-baby body, but do not make that your priority. Your health is your priority. You want to make sure you’re getting enough sleep, you’re following a nutritious diet, you’re staying positive, and most importantly, remaining patient. Attempting to work out while you’re exhausted will not do you any good because you will be energy deprived. When you’re well rested and mentally relaxed, you’ll find that you’ll get more out of your workout.

     

  • Royal Baby

    Royal Baby

    Baby on the way! A quick look back at the moments Harry & Meghan’s love was jumping through our screens to celebrate the latest announcement.


    1. Engagement Photos- Seriously, can they be any better looking?

    2. A rare PDA sighting from the newlyweds after The Sentebale Polo Match in Windsor!

    3. Their first public appearance @ The Invictus Games in Canada.

    4. When they attended a dance class during a visit to Wales and cheered on students.


    5. This one is too cute! Dying to know what made Meghan laugh so much.

    6. Power Suits, power parents! The couple twined after the Endeavour Awards in February.

    7. Always with the googly eyes you two!!

    8. This wedding photo capturing the moment Harry whispered, “You look amazing. I’m so lucky,” forever making these two the ultimate #couplegoals.

    Congratulations! We can not wait for spring when the newest royal is set to arrive!

    In need of more Harry & Meghan, we are with ya. Head over to The Knot and lose yourself in an unlimited supply of royals!

    Image courtesy of The Knot and The Royal Family Instagram

     

  • Chelsea & Martin

    Chelsea & Martin

     

    How did you meet?

    Martin and I met on Tinder! Back when tinder was still new!! Apparently, his friend stole his phone and swiped yes to about 200 girls and I think I was one of them. We matched and I didn’t write him right away cuz I wanted him to write me. He didn’t, so one night I was home and told my roommate there is this really cute guy but he hasn’t written to me, she said to write him! So I did. I think I said ‘’ hey there’’ He responded and we starting talking, a ton!  We started texting and I think he added me on FB. It took us a couple of weeks to meet up because our schedules were really busy. We continued to talk and I had this feeling which seemed insane at the time that this was the guy I was going to marry. I texted my best friend and she was like omg wow! So it was time for our first date, he picked me up and took me to Alma which was a 9-course tasting menu! It was delicious and we had a really good time and instant chemistry. I also found out he missed a Billy Joel concert that night because of our date ( I still need to get him to see Billy Joel! ) After dinner was over we were walking around DTLA and there happened to be a Mexican death metal band playing at The Mayan, we went in and danced for ages! He took me home and we made plans to see each other the next day.

    Long story short we knew about 3 days in that this was it for both of us.  I also moved in on our second date and here we are 4.5 years later!

     

    How did he propose?

    We had been dating for 2 years and 3 months. Martin planned a trip to Europe and we were going to visit The UK as that is where he is from and I had never been there. We first arrived in London to stay with friends and he showed me all around there. A few days later we headed to Bristol, the town he grew up in. We stayed at his best friends aunts house who happened to be in the states. We got there and he told me to get ready we were going to go walk around and see everything. He showed me where he went to school and where he was a choir boy and I sang in the church, we then started walking up a street and I had no idea where we were going.  He pointed up to a sign that read THE MAURETANIA, he said you know the story that happened here right? I did know the story but then started doubting myself and being like wait wait you mean THE story where your grandfather asked your grandmother to marry him…So he said should we see if we could go in? The door was magically opened, we started walking in and I said are we going to get in trouble? Once we made it past the entrance full of boxes and dust we entered into the beautiful room, where I saw champagne and flowers and then he started digging in his bag for something, I started to cry and he got down on one knee and told me the story again of what happened in this very same room and asked me to marry him.

    THE OFFICIAL STORY AND FACEBOOK POST

    In 1938 the great Ocean Liner, The Mauretania, ended her time as a sea-going vessel and was stripped down and destroyed. Parts of it were bought by the Bristolian entrepreneur WH Watkins to decorate a lounge that he named after the boat. In 1950 my grandfather, Desmond Thomas got down on bended knee and asked Sheila Hennessy if she would marry him. She said yes, and they began their lives as the people who would become my grandparents. The bar has been closed for quite a while now but I recently discovered that the building itself is listed and so it’s exactly the same inside as it was in 1938 and 1950. So on Saturday, 13th of August 2016, with a lot of help from some incredible people, I was able to take Miss Chelsea Gabrielle into that exact same nautically themed room and ask her to be my wife. She said yes. Which makes me the luckiest man to have stood in that room in 66 years.

    Most difficult part of wedding planning process?

    Definitely, the most difficult part is all the small minor details that you don’t think of!

    How did you decide on a wedding venue?

    I am a Los Angeles native so Palm Springs was a bit part of my childhood and growing up and my grandparents had a house there so I would go almost every weekend. So it held a special place in my heart. Next, because Martin is British we were expecting a lot of people to come from overseas and we wanted to choose a fun destination. LA can be not the best place for tourist sometimes. So we had a semi-destination wedding for locals and a destination wedding for people from Europe. We chose the Colony Palms because we liked the intimate feeling of the hotel and that we were able to do a buyout so the entire hotel was full of just our family and friends. It felt right to be in the same place with everyone for 3 days.

    However, for the ceremony, we decided to do something a little out there and we weren’t quite sure if it was going to work. We decided to not have the ceremony at the Colony Palm because we wanted something a little more edgy and honestly more Cinematic. Martin is a director and drama is everything! In our minds, we wanted something out in the middle of the desert in the middle of nowhere…So we set out on a ‘’scout’’ in movie terms. We must have driven around for 5-6 hours and finally, we were about to give up and I told Martin no come on let’s try one more time to that area you want to go. So we head out a little further out and we get to this super old paved road. We start driving in and about a mile in we see what looks to be like a 60-foot bluff set against the mountains, we started getting giddy and saw a dirt road up that we were hoping led up onto the buff. Sure enough, it did! However, when we got up there we discovered this bluff and area had been being used as a shooting gallery! There were thousand and thousand of shotgun shells and tons of trash and things that people used for target practice.

    We decided this place was perfect but we weren’t quite sure how to pull it off. Long story short together with Martins production company and Artisan Events we managed to pull it off. This included placing an ad on craigslist for a local clean up crew to tidy up and to level the land, transportation for all of our guest both to and from the hotel but also up the bluff. Artisan surprised us and got us Humvees to escort all of our guests up, I couldn’t believe how badass that was and was a huge hit! I also drove into the ceremony in a 1956 Porsche speedster, so the ceremony definitely featured some awesome automobiles!  They also set up a full bar for our guests so they could have refreshments and get their drink on. I am so thankful to everyone who helped pull off our dream ceremony!

    What’s your favorite memory from your wedding day?

    My favorite memory is probably walking in towards my husband. I deal with anxiety on the reg and I was nervous I was going to have anxiety but it was honestly the calmest I have ever felt and it felt so special to know I was walking toward my future and towards my forever to a man who loves me and makes my world go round. We also did not do first looks so it was the first time we were seeing each other on the day! I will never forget it.

    How did HitchSwitch make your post-wedding name change process easier?

    HitchSwitch is amazing! I changed my name about 4 weeks after we got married. It would have been sooner but I got crazy sick. All the information was in the folder and took the guesswork out of it. I feel like it would’ve taken me way longer if I didn’t have HitchSwitch. We leave for our honeymoon very soon and I have my new passport with my married name ready to go!

  • The Cooking Basics for Newlyweds

    The Cooking Basics for Newlyweds

    So, you’re newly married, huh? Well, congrats to you, my friend! Have fun referring to your then boyfriend as your now husband and good luck with the one question at every gathering that will make you want to pull your hair out: what’s it like being married?

    See, I wouldn’t mind answering that question except it’s only the married couples that ask.

    For god’s sake, Suzan, you’ve been married for fifteen years, and you still don’t know what it’s like?

    Okay, lovebirds, it was fun while it lasted and that honeymoon in Los Cabos?

    Definitely Instagram worthy.

    Back to reality! You’re finally back home, and you can’t wait to cook that first meal for your partner. Granted, you’re not a chef, but that doesn’t mean you can’t learn the basics of cooking. Everyone starts somewhere and always remember the way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach.

    Chop it like it’s hot

    This is the foundation for any meal out there. Whatever dish you are planning on making, odds are, it will require you to sharpen those knife skills (ha-ha, get it?). When I first got married, I made a lot of stir-fries. They were so simple, but my cutting skills were horrendous. At one point, I just threw half an onion in there hoping it would soften and break apart on its own! After watching a 2-minute video on YouTube, I now actually enjoy dicing up my vegetables. It’s surprisingly therapeutic.

    An Egg-cellent breakfast

    Did you hear about the hen who laid her egg on an ax? She wanted to hatchet.

    How do you like your eggs? Fried? Boiled? Sunnyside up? Poached? Scrambled? Omelet? Personally, I like mine in a cake. While eggs play a more prominent role in baking, they can also be nutritious breakfast food. With that said, cooking an egg couldn’t be easier. Depending on how runny or firm you like your eggs, it all comes down to time. The longer you boil, scramble, or poach an egg, the firmer it becomes. Like it runny? Then cook for less time.

    No, not exercise, I said extra rice!

    Listen up; if I could spend hours teaching anything about cooking, it would be to show you how to prepare rice probably. Whether you’re American, European, Asian, or African, rice is a necessity for almost every meal.

    Here’s how simple it is:

    You place your rice in water and let it soak for 30 minutes. Place water into a large pot (for every one cup of rice, you add 2.5 cups of water or chicken broth). When the water comes to a boil, drain the water on the rice, add it to the pot, and give it a light stir. You can add a teaspoon of ghee, but that’s entirely optional. I use it on my rice because it keeps the rice from sticking together and gives it a light buttery taste. When the water boils down, and you see bubbles starting to pop on top of the rice (about 6-7 minutes), lower the heat and cover with lid. Wait ten minutes, take your rice off the heat and cover it with a kitchen towel (it will help absorb excess moisture). When it’s time to serve, just lightly fluff the rice with a fork!

    That’s it! No need for any fancy rice cooker. With this technique, you can make the perfect rice at home!

    Seasoning’s Greetings!

    Why is seasoning important? For one, it’s what enhances the flavor of your food. We are all familiar with salt and pepper, but there are endless options when it comes to spices. When it comes to seasoning our food, there are actually rules. Yup, I’m dead serious. Let’s say you want to season a chicken. When you’re done cleaning it and patting it dry, you want season every inch of that chicken generously! The front, back, under the wings, the insides, outsides, everything!! Always use high-quality ingredients because it really makes a difference in taste.

    What’s steaking so long?

    Have you ever seen a chef cook a steak in a nonstick pan? No, because you will need a cast iron skillet for this! Steaks need high heat, and cast irons are perfect for it. The best thing about steaks is that they don’t need a ton of work.

    The first step is to preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 Celsius). You season each side with freshly cracked salt and pepper and cook it on the skillet over medium-high heat. When a dark crust starts forming (7-8 minutes) on both sides, begin browning the edges with your tongs until you’ve reached the desired color. How long you keep your steak in the oven depends entirely on you but anywhere from 5-15 minutes is perfect. Make sure to let your steak rest for 7-8 minutes after taking it out of the oven. Finally, some Steak Butter and it’s ready for devouring.

    Line it up!

    One way you can keep and baked good from sticking is buttering your pan and sprinkling sugar or flour on top. It’s a pretty simple technique that works wonders and keeps your masterpieces from ruin. Another method is parchment paper. Never forget to grease your pans. You can use a pencil to line your parchment paper to your pan and cut it, so it lines perfectly. Just make sure to leave a strip longer than the other, so you don’t have difficulty handling it and removing it when it comes out of the oven.

    Food safety

    This has nothing to do with actual cooking, but the most crucial step in cooking basics. It’s common knowledge that a kitchen is a place where germs are most likely to flourish. We’ve been taught to wash our hands before and after we eat since we learned to walk! By washing your hands properly with anti-bacterial soap, you are preventing the spread of harmful bacteria and deadly diseases.

    If you need to remember one thing about kitchen safety, it’s washing your hands; I cannot stress this enough. Kitchen hygiene starts with repeatedly washing your hands through the cooking process.

    Speaking of cooking, never undercook your food. You may think that it’s obvious, but you’d be surprised at how many people undercook their food. This leads to harmful bacteria ingestion and possible food poisoning.

    Here are some other tips to help you master food safety:

    -Never leave food out in the open, it becomes vulnerable to bacteria. Always cover it and place it in the fridge or freezer.
    -Let all food cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator or freezer.
    -Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before chowing down.
    -Thoroughly clean your kitchen with anti-bacterial products to prevent the risk of cross-contamination.

    I believe it was Julia Child, the incredible American chef, who said: “No one is born a great cook, one learns by doing.” Remember when you first learned to ride a bike? Maybe you don’t, but I can tell you it took a ton of effort and hundreds of tries before you screamed: “I did it!”

    Practice makes progress, not perfect, and every step you take is another step towards mastering the art of cooking.

  • Home Essentials For Every Newlywed Couple

    Home Essentials For Every Newlywed Couple

    Congratulations! You are engaged, and you’re working with your fiance to put together the perfect registry and plan your dream day. Don’t be one of those couples that fail to put together a wedding registry or make an incomplete one and ends up with four blenders and two toasters. There are some newlywed home essentials that most couples forget to put on their list yet a super crucial for your new home.

    A set of tools

    Whether you own a home or are renting an apartment, it’s important to have a well-stocked toolkit. Things like drills, screwdrivers, measuring tapes, levels, nails, screws, and wrenches come in handy more often than you think — especially if you’re putting furniture together or hanging artwork. Don’t forget to add a step stool and ladder to your wedding registry as well.

    A new mattress

    This may not be applicable if you cohabitated before getting married, but if this is your first time living together as a couple, a new mattress is a definite home essential. Let’s face it — your new spouse doesn’t want to sleep on an old bed where you did heaven-knows-what with heaven-knows-who in times past.

    Artwork

    Whether you’re living in a house or an apartment, plain walls are boring. Spruce up your place by adding artwork to the walls. Landscapes and abstracts are a great way to brighten up your living space without interrupting the flow of your design. And you don’t have to break the bank either. Stores like Hobby Lobby and Michael’s often have great artwork, and if you search online, they usually have coupons for 40 percent off a regular priced item.

    Image Via Pinterest

    Cookware

    Cooking as a couple is a great way to bond. Add a quality set of pots and pans to your wedding registry, or purchase a set with the gift cards you receive. Even if you’re no Emeril Lagasse, having the right tools can make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

    A set of knives

    Just as a set of cookware is essential for an easier and more enjoyable cooking experience, a good set of knives can make the difference between effortlessly chopping up a salad or just ordering takeout in frustration. You might want to register for a set that comes with a sharpener as well so that you can keep those bad boys sharp at all times.

    Emergency / First Aid Kit

    No one expects to have an emergency — and hopefully, you never have one — but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Amazon offers a stellar emergency kit with essentials that you can use in the event of a hurricane, flood, earthquake or another form of disaster. It includes a flashlight, high-calorie food bars, water packets, ropes, goggles, and a slew of other things that can come in handy in case of an emergency.

    Robotic Vacuum

    Vacuuming your own house is so 1990s; get a robot to do it for you. Schedule your Roomba to clean from your phone or directly on the vacuum. You can also instruct your Roomba to start cleaning using an Alexa device. Is it a home essential? Not really. Does it come in handy? Oh, yeah! Just be sure to add it to your wedding registry because it is kind of pricey.

    Linens

    Every newlywed couple should have a set of linens. From towels to bed sheets and kitchen towels to placemats — these home essentials don’t have to be perfectly matching, but it’s nice if the colors compliment each other well. When picking sheets to add to your wedding registry, remember: the higher the thread count, the softer the sheet and the better it will wear over time.

    Place settings

    You don’t need a super expensive china set, but as a married adult, eating from paper plates and drinking from red Solo cups just isn’t going to cut it anymore. Be sure to add a full set of beautiful place settings that you can use to entertain whenever you have guests or can bring out for a romantic dinner for two.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Image Via Pinterest

    Dining room set

    A dining room set is essential in any home. After all, where are you supposed to display your beautiful place settings if you don’t have a table? Choose something that suits your space, and consider the possibility that you may someday have little ones running around, so make sure that it’s large enough to fit a potentially growing family.

    Author’s Bio:

    Darlene Mase lives in Newnan, Georgia with her husband and daughter. She is a stay-at-home mom and works as a freelance writer for Zumper.com and other popular sites. During her free time, Darlene enjoys travelling, hiking, camping, cycling, gardening, caving, kayaking, or anything else outdoors.