THE HOLIDAY ISSUE

ANDERSONSOMERSELLE.COM Winter 2018

A Lifestyle Zine

Holiday Issue The

Let’s Trim The Tree Don’t be green with tree-envy!

Find design inspiration for your own picture-perfect tree!

The A-List Holiday Gift Guide It’s the season of giving!

We have the perfect gift recommendation for every person on your list!

Cozy Holiday Cooking with The Cozy Cook

Meet our favorite home cook blogger, Stephanie Melchione, and try out some of her very best recipes. Whether you’re hosting the holidays or need a dish that travels well, we’ve got you covered!

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ANDERSONSOMERSELLE.COM

Anderson Somerselle Editor In Chief Art Director

Michael DiFrancisco Executive Editor

Art Adobe Stock

Special Thanks Balsam Hills, Pooya Mohs, Stephanie Melchione Caytha Jentis

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LET”S DO THIS

H

appy Holidays! This is absolutely my favorite time of year because the holidays are the best time for friends and families to get together, reminisce, share some great food and drinks, and reconnect. Everything about the holidays feels drenched in nostalgia : from

the smell of warm, delicious meals in the kitchen that remind us of home, to the long-held traditions we hold dear to our hearts. Is there any day more memorable than the day you put up your tree? Granted some of those memories may be hours upon hours of detangling Christmas tree lights, but ... most of them are warm and lovely, right?! This holiday season, we are happy to share our best ideas for how to decorate your tree, gift ideas for every member of your family (and don’t forget to treat yourself!), as well as some delicious, easy recipes that are sure to become your new go-to favorites. Get cozy in your favorite flannel PJ’s, pour a cup of eggnog, put on your favorite Christmas album (perhaps Christina Aguilera’s “My Kind of Christmas,” or Celine’s “These Are The Special Times”) - and enjoy our very first Holiday Issue! From our family to yours, wishing you the best holiday season! May your days be merry and bright!

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Contents

The A- List Holiday Gift Guide For everybody on your list -including you!

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Create Your Own Ornaments For the most unique and personal tree you’ve ever had!

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Let’s Trim The Tree Whatever your style, we’ve got the perfect tree inspiration for you!

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Cozy Holiday Cooking with Th

The internet’s favorite cooking blogger sh very best recipes and tips for creating a s holiday meal!

Super Star Pooya Mohseni

Get to know actress Pooya Mohseni as she shares her favorite holiday memories!

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The Cozy Cook

hares her successful

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Let’s

Trim

Tree The

One of the most important parts of getting ready for the holiday season is picking your tree and the decorations!

Whether you prefer a classic and understated theme or a bright and cheerful look - check out some of our favorite products and design ideas!

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Back to Nature

The early 20th century saw Americans decorating their trees with homemade ornaments, apples, nuts, and marzipan cookies. Popcorn joined in after being dyed bright colors and interlaced with berries and nuts. Balsam Hill pays homage to these humble traditions with their Woodland Ornament collection. Featuring the beauty of acorns, pine cones, tree bark and enchanting wildlife, this collection of hand-painted glass ornaments captures the most breathtaking imagery of winter.

Add On: Balsam Hill’s Red Berry Picks: add vibrancy to your holiday décor.

OH ,Christmas Tree

!

The Douglas Fir is the most popular tree choice of Christmas tree throughout the central and northern U.S., which is why we’ve chosen this majestic beauty as the base for our Classic Christmas Tree look.

Named after David Douglas who studied the tree in the 1800’s, the Douglas Fir has soft needles that radiate out from the branches in all directions, giving the tree a fuller appearance. The soft needles makes this tree child-friendly, so your little ones can help you deck the halls. However, the limbs are a bit dainty and will bend under heavy ornamentation, so our tip is to hang your heavier ornaments toward the middle of the branches, giving them the appearance of being nestled into the tree.

Fun Fact: The Douglas Fir isn’t a “true” fir, it is actually an Pseudotsuga menziesii (have fun casually dropping that into a conversation).

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Silver & Rose Gold

Germany is credited with starting the Christmas tree tradition as we know it today. Back in the 16th century, devout Christians brought evergreen trees into their homes because they believed the evergreen tree was a symbol of everlasting life. They decorated their trees in celebration of the winter solstice. Martin Luther, the 16th-century Protestant reformer, is credited with being the first person to add lighted candles to a tree. The idea came to Luther one winter evening. While walking home and composing a sermon, he was awed by the brilliance of stars twinkling amidst evergreens.

Nichole Miller’s collection of ornaments in glimmering metallic hues will help add a contemporary twinkle to your tree. The reflectiveness of these ornaments will help your tree shimmer during the day. The translucent ornaments allow light to past through, giving your tree a light, airy look.

Nichole Miller designed for Balsam Hills

Airy Chic

Red fir or silvertip fir (as it’s commonly known) is a western North American fir, native to the mountains of southwest Oregon and California in the United States. We chose this species of tree for the base of our Modern Tree because it’s less dense than other firs, which gives it a minimalistic appearance. This attribute also makes it perfect for showing off your contempory ornaments. Because the trunk of this tree is more accessible, I like to wrap lights around the trunk. Doing so illuminates the tree from within, creating depth and backlighting for the ornaments. The silvertip fir’s branches are quite sturdy and strong enough to hold heavier ornamnets.

Add On: These mouth-blown glass ornaments from Balsam Hill’s Legacy Collection will make your Christmas tree sparkle with grandeur and elegance.

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BeJewled

For a tree with a fun and funky personality, we recommend ornaments from Balsam Hill’s Masquerade Collection. Eye-catching, unusual shapes are featured in bright, shiny jewel tones.

Your tree will be decked in love and light, reflecting a warm, welcoming home and a clear appreciation for beauty and art. We recommend opting for colored Christmas lights (as opposed to the more traditional white or clear lights) for this tree.

Add On: Jazz up your Christmas with these glittery decorative holiday picks.

The Perfect Tree

For a beautiful bohemian look featuring the gorgeous jewel-toned Masquerade Collection ornaments, we recommend the Leyland Cypress tree. Part of the evergreen tree family, this particular type of tree is perfect for our design because of the light, feathery shape of its leaves and branches. The Leyland Cypress brings a soft, cozy vibe to your holiday aesthetic, and is sure to let those pops of jewel colors shine.

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THE

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LIST

NOSTALGIC MAGIC This reel viewer comes with a special redemption code that the recipient uses to create their own personalized photo reel. This is a unique, nostalgic way to show off photos of cherished memories.

Create Your Own Reel Viewer: uncommongoods.com

D I N G L E H O P P E R S A-PLENTY The perfect gift for the grown-up Disney kid!

Bringing your favorite mouse to every meal, this flatware set features an understated Mickey cut-out on each of its 24 stainless steel utensils.

Service for six believers in magic, fairies, and dreams that come true.

Gourmet Mickey Mouse Flatware Set: shopdisney.com AndersonSomerselle.Com 16

CITY SIPPING This beautiful rocks glass features an etched street map of your favorite city. Choose from 24 major US cities. As these are sold individually, we recommend creating a very personalized set by choosing two or four different cities that are meaningful to the recipient.

Urban Map Glass; uncommongoods.com

O H , T HAT ’ S S M O O T H

For the true gift that keeps on giving, introduce your guests to their new favorite go-to drink: PaQui Tequila. Available in Silver, Reposado and Anejo, PaQui is a unique tequila because the spirit’s typical burn and bite has been distilled out. It’s so smooth and well-flavored, it is equally enjoyable with or without a mixer. “PaQui” is the Aztec word meaning “to be happy,” something your guests are sure to experience!

PaQui Tequila Paquitequlia.com

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CHEERS TO THE GREEN FAIRY For fans of Moulin Rouge as well as those who appreciate an unusual drink - just add your own alcohol to the provided organic botanicals to create your very own Absinthe! Hallucinations not included.

Absinthe Making Kit uncommongoods.com

O U T O F T H E PA R K Choose a bottle opener made from the wood of a baseball bat swung by a player from your choice of over two dozen MLB teams! The perfect gift for any fan!

Game Used Baseball Bat Bottle Openers ; uncommongoods.com

MOSCOW MOMENTS These unique Moscow Mule Mugs upgrade the standard hammered copper look for a sleek black nickel. The perfect combination of a traditional silhouette in a classic modern material means this mug will be the new star of your recipient’s bar.

Black Faceted Moscow Mule Mug; macys.com

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OH DEER

This beautiful pillow from Grow House Grow is whismical and fun, featuring a subtle reindeer design that won’t look out of place even when the holidays are over!

Otomi Pillow GrowHouseGrow.com

JUST LIKE HONEY Candles may seem like an obvious gift choice, but when you find a scent like this Wild Honey Nectar - you may want to keep it for yourself! Stock up on luxuriously scented candles in pretty jars. These are perfect for people who you don’t know very well, who are hard to shop for, and are great to have on hand for last-minute additions to Santa’s list! DW Home’s Wild Honey Nectar is available on Amazon, but you might try your luck at a discount store like Marshall’s first!

Wild Honey Nectar Candles Amazon.com

EASY LISTENING NO PLACE LIKE HOME

This personalized ornament features three metal discs that commemorate a family or couple’s first Christmas in a new home. Featuring the year, the address, and the phrase “First Christmas in Our New Home,” this unique ornament is sure to make a heartfelt impression on the recipients. They will think fondly of their memories in this home (and of you!) each year when decorating their Christmas tree.

First Christmas Ornament etsy.com/shop/addienubbins

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This unique amplifier redirects the sound from your phone through its wooden base to an old-fashioned gramophone speaker. No wires, no bluetooth, no charging, no batteries! macys.com Wooden Phone Amplifier

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THE

P

ERFECT TABLE

We had the pleasure of getting to know The Cozy Cook, Stephanie Melchione, who helped us out with some amazing recipes and tips for first-time holiday cooks!

“My advice for a first-time holiday host is to do as much prep work as possible. Choose recipes that can be made ahead of time. For recipes that can’t, try to do prep work ahead of time (slice up ingredients, familiarize yourself with instructions, etc.) Over-prepare yourself and the holiday will be much more fun! And remember that everything doesn’t have to be perfect. Have a glass of champagne before guests arrive and let go of any of your preconceived ideas of perfection!”

For all of Stephanie’s great recipes and tips, head to www.thecozycook.com and follow her on Facebook and Instagram!

INSTANT POT MAC AND CHEESE Ingredients 1 lb. elbow macaroni pasta 4 cups chicken broth 2 teaspoons dry mustard ½ teaspoon seasoned salt 1 teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon pepper 2 Tablespoons butter 3 cups shredded cheese 1 cup whole milk Parsley to garnish 21 THE HOLIDAY ISSUE

Instructions 1. Add the chicken broth and seasonings to the Instant Pot and mix until well combined. Pour in the macaroni. Secure the cover and ensure the quick release valve is closed.

2. Pressure cook for 5 minutes and flip the quick release valve when finished to allow the steam to escape and slow down the cooking process.

3. Stir in the butter, cheese, and milk, until well-combined.

4. Sprinkle with parsley and serve!

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COPYCAT TEXAS ROADHOUSE ROLLS

Ingredients

2 ¼ teaspoon Active Dry Yeast or 1 packet 1 ¼ cup Milk ¼ cup Honey 4 Tablespoons melted Butter, separated 1 large Egg 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt 4 cups Flour

Instructions 1. Bring the milk to a boil. Remove it from heat and let it reduce lukewarm.

2. Mix the milk, yeast, and honey in a small bowl until well combined. Let it sit for 5 minutes.

3. In a large bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of the butter, the milk mixture, egg, and 2 cups of flour. Mix slowly until smooth. (Use a mixer with a dough hook if you have one, otherwise it works by hand.) Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour and mix until a dough has formed.

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4. Add salt, and mix/knead for 8 minutes. Then drop the dough onto a floured surface and knead for a few more minutes.

5. Spray a large bowl with cooking spray and drop the dough inside. Cover the bowl (plastic wrap or a damp cloth works) and let it rise for an hour in a warm place.

6. Spray 2 cookie sheets with vegetable oil. Punch down the dough and roll it out on a flat, floured surface until it’s about ½ inch thick.

Fold it in half and gently seal.

7. Cut into 24 squares of even size and place on the cookie sheets.

Cover them and let them rise for about 40 minutes, until doubled in size.

8. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the top is a light golden brown.

9. Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter and brush the top of the rolls.

HOMEMADE SAMOA COOKIES Ingredients

The Cook

Shortbread cookies ½ cup butter, softened ⅓ cup sugar 1 cup + 4 Tablespoons flour ⅓ teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt 1 Tablespoon cold milk or water ½ teaspoon vanilla Topping 1½ cups coconut flakes 2 cups soft caramels, unwrapped (a 14 oz.bag will give you enough) 3 Tablespoons heavy cream ½ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla 1½ cups semi sweet chocolate chips 1 teaspoon vegetable oil

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

In a separate bowl, mix together the butter and sugar until fluffy. Combine with the flour mixture and mix until the consistency is like fine crumbs Add the milk and vanilla and mix until a dough is formed. Flatten the dough a little bit and wrap with plastic wrap. Chill in the fridge for one or hour in the freezer for 20 minutes.

Once the dough is chilled, roll it out onto a lightly floured surface until it’s about ¼ inch thick.

Use a cookie cutter and cut circles as close together as you can in the dough, using a smaller cookie cutter for the middle. I used the rim of a wine glass and a spice cap for mine : ) Place them on 2 baking sheets as you do this.

Gather remaining dough into a ball, roll it out again, and cut more circles. Repeat until you have no dough left.

Bake the cookies at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes, keeping an eye on them towards the end to ensure they don’t burn. They will obtain a slightly dry look as they finish up. This is expected. Place the cookie sheet in the fridge or freezer once they’re finished baking.

The Toppings Place the coconut flakes in a medium pan on medium heat and stir constantly, until they’re browned. This took me about 10 minutes.

Take a medium microwave-safe bowl and combine the caramels and heavy cream. Microwave for 2 minutes, stir. Then microwave for 20 seconds at a time after that, stirring in between until it’s fully melted.

Finally, stir in the salt and vanilla.

Spread about 2 tablespoons of caramel on top of each cookie. It’s a messy process, I ended up dipping mine right into the caramel. But either way, it’s sloppy.

Sprinkle the coconut flakes into any remaining caramel and stir. Top each cookie with them and chill to let them set.

Melt the chocolate chips. If you don’t have a double boiler, take 2 small pots stacked on top of each other. Fill the bottom pot halfway with water and bring it to a boil. Decrease the heat to medium and fill the top pot with the chocolate chips. Stir frequently with a spoon until melted.

Add the teaspoon of oil- this will thin the chocolate slightly which makes it much easier for dipping and drizzling.

Dip the bottom of each cookie into the chocolate and place onto a chilled cookie sheet. Chill the cookies in the fridge as you do this so that the chocolate hardens on the bottom.

Drizzle the top of the cookies with remaining chocolate. This is especially when the added teaspoon of oil comes in handy as the chocolate needs to be nice and thin for a fine and easy drizzle.

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A Fabulous Holiday

Pooya Mohseni

Actress: Falling Water & Madam Secretary

What is your favorite holiday memory?

As an immigrant, the holidays I grew up with are different from the ones we celebrate in the US. I grew up in Iran and the biggest holiday we have is our new year or “No-rooz” ,which means new day, celebration at the beginning of spring. It’s very beautiful, as the trees are starting to blossom, there are lights everywhere and people are running around visiting family and sharing food, laughs and lots of new year cheer. My fondest memory is when I was 8: my older brother was still in Iran, both my parents were working, the Iran-Iraq war was on the calmer side, both my grandparents were still alive and I was loving 2nd grade. On the first day of the No-rooz holiday, my family and I went to my grandparents house for the first holiday lunch of the year. The table was set with my grandmother’s masterpieces, ranging from smoked fish from the Caspian sea to her green rice with dill, plates of fresh herbs and delicious new year sweets. We all sat around that beautiful table and for a few hours, all was good with the world. It was quite a sight and it has been ingrained in my brain as one of the most glorious days of my childhood.

What holiday traditions from your childhood have you kept as an adult, and what new traditions have you created?

“

As an Iranian-American who calls New York home, I’m proud to say that I’m not just one or the other, but both”

Well, as an Iranian-American who calls New York home, I’m proud to say that I’m not just one or the other, but both. I love Thanksgiving, not its historical background and the colonialism it represents, but that it brings families together around food, even if it is too much food! But I love it! I have my own recipes for stuffing, sides and deserts! I also celebrate Christmas, not as a religious holiday, but a day of peace, celebration of life and humanity, and food! Yes, I love food! Food is love and when you share food, good food, you are sharing love. I don’t celebrate the holidays I grew up with in the same way that my family did when i was a child, but there are components of it I like to retain: pomegranates, dried fruit and nuts on winter solstice and if I can, smoked fish with dill rice with fresh herbs. Maybe even some no-rooz cookies from the bakery! Again, it’s all food related, but those are where the memories and the love lies for me.

What is your favorite holiday entertainment?

I don’t know why but for some reason, probably because it usually plays during the holidays, I associate “the Sound of Music” with Christmas and it always fills my heart with joy. I also love holiday episodes of The Golden Girls, no matter how many times I’ve watched them. I think those episodes just bring out the best in people. As for music, there are two songs that always stop me in tracks for their heart and individuality: John Lennon’s “Happy Xmas” and Eartha Kitt’s “Santa Baby”. I mean Lennon and Kitt! You can’t beat it!

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nostalgic

Make nostalgic, meaningful ornaments out of old toys! Bring back some of that childhood magic by decorating your grown-up Christmas tree with memories from when you were young. Something as simple as clear fishing line can create a nearly invisible harness. Tie that around your vintage action figures and beloved McDonald’s Happy Meal toys to easily turn them into ornaments! Absolutely no creativity required!

RS e

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THANK YOU FOR READING AndersonSomerselle.Com 30