Cocktails for Two: Hey Hey, My My

When my husband suggested a sherry cocktail, I was hesitant. Before that moment, I had never tried sherry. I thought of it as a dessert wine, something a little outdated and old-fashioned, but I was still interested in trying a new cocktail. So, on a Saturday afternoon we gave sherry a try. Honestly, it was surprisingly good. Cream sherry is a sweeter sherry, so it plays nicely with other liqueurs and fresh juices. To me, it was similar to vermouth, adding a unique flavor to the drink. Plus, compared to other cocktails, it has a much lower alcohol content. So, if your are new to cocktails, but interested in trying something new then this is the perfect drink for you. Cheers!


Hey Hey, My My

3 ounces Aperol
1/2 ounces Cream Sherry
2 ounces fresh grapefruit juice
1 ounce fresh lemon juice
1 ounce honey simple syrup (equal parts honey and water, simmered until combined)

In a cocktail shaker, combine all ingredients with ice. Shake until outside of shaker is frosted over. Strain into coupe glasses and serve immediately.

Style: Spring Sweater

Sweater: J.Crew // Jeans: Gap // Sandals: J.Crew (similar) // Bag: Kate Spade (similar) // Bracelet: Banana Republic // Sunglasses: Karen Walker // Lips: Nars Niagara

Lightweight sweaters are an essential for me during spring. They pair nicely with jeans, as well as skirts and dresses for dressier occasions. I picked up this J.Crew sweater a few weeks ago while is was on sale, and luckily it still is (for an additional 30% off). I love the split up the side for an unexpected twist on a tunic, plus the lilac color is perfect for spring. What are some of your spring essentials? 

In the Kitchen: Whipped Goat Cheese & Leek Crostini

Crostini's are a go-to in our kitchen. They easily jazz up a simple piece of french bread and can topped with just about anything. This combination of the almost creamy leeks and sharp goat cheese is delicious. Pair this with a salad and you have an easy light dinner. 

Whipped Goat Cheese & Leek Crostini 

1 baguette, sliced 

1 tablespoon butter 

1 medium leek, sliced 

1 garlic clove 

3 ounces goat cheese 

2 tablespoons milk 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. 

Place sliced baguette on a cookie tray, and bake for about five minutes until baguettes are crispy. Turn baguettes halfway through cooking to ensure even baking. 

Heat a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add butter and leeks. Saute for 10 minutes until leeks are soft. You do not want them to brown, just soften. 

Combine goat cheese and milk in a bowl. Whip together with a whisk until smooth. The mixture will be fairly thick. 

To assemble, place a generous layer of goat cheese mixture onto baguette. Top with 1-2 tablespoons leeks. Serve immediately. 

Style: Spring Dressing

Dress: Anthropologie // Heels: J.Crew (similar) // Clutch: J.Crew (similar) // Sunglasses: Karen Walker // Lips: Nars Niagara

I was originally hesitant about buying this dress. I was afraid it was too formal and that I would not get a lot of wear out of it. A spring tweed can be tricky to style. It is only suitable for cooler days, and is only appropriate in spring and summer due to its light color. But, I went with my gut instinct and bought it a few weeks ago. So far I've worn it to my sister-in-laws rehearsal dinner and on Easter Sunday. I love its light mint color and that it doesn't wrinkle. I'm not sure how many more occasions I'll  be able to wear it to this season, but I am glad it has a home in my closet.  

Friday Favorites: Ankle Strap Sandals

ONE // TWO // THREE

Even though I had to scrape my windshield Wednesday morning, I'm officially declaring it spring in Charlottesville. I'm packing up my winter layers (thank goodness), and deciding on my first sandal purchase. I'm loving that low-heel sandals are in style for this season. It makes them wearable for everyday, rather than just an evening out. It is supposed to be beautiful here this weekend, so I may just have to pull the trigger on one.