The Nest Spring 2014

from

k

powered by thenest.com

spring 2014

get organized real-life secrets that work

This house is only 362 square feet!

LOVE LIVING LIFE

yummy

spring salads

delish drinks for a crowd (or date night)

See the whole issue at TheNest.com/mag

inside

shopping ideas from our friends at

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contents

Party perfect sangria recipes

spring

4 Small Wonder > 10 Secrets of Extremely Organized People > 14 6 Stylish Window Solutions >

14

6 ways to up your curtain game

18 Planters with Punch > 20 Yummy Weeknight Meals> 26 Pitcher Perfect Sangrias > 30 How to Organize Your Social Life > 34 Weekend Road Trips > 38 7 Offbeat Signs You’re Ready for a Baby > 40 Real Couples > 42 Upgrading Your Engagement Ring> 44 Room-by-Room Spring Cleaning >

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Off-the-radar weekend getaways

Photo Credits: cover and pp. 4-9: James Tse, prop styling by James McGowan, hair and makeup by Nyrie for ArtMix Beauty; p. 3: living room: Ellen Silverman, shelves: Mark Lund, money jar, boxes: Shutterstock; p. 10: shelves: David A. Land; p. 11: from left: Mark Lund, Ellen Silverman; p. 12: clockwise from top left: Mark Lund, Shutterstock, Ellen Silverman; p. 13: from right: Mark Lund, Shutterstock; pp. 14-17: Mark Lund, prop styling by Alistair Turnbull; pp. 18-19: shutter planter: Sophie de Lignerolles; p. 20: Mary Ellen Bartley/Stockfood; p. 21: Louise Lister/Stockfood; p. 22: Devereux Imagery/Stockfood; p. 23: courtesy of Jean Cazals/Clarkson Potter/The Crown Publishers Group; p. 26: apple, orange: Shutterstock; p. 27: lemons: Shutterstock; p. 28: bananas, peach: Shutterstock; pp. 30-33: Levi Brown; p. 34: Hearst Castle: Shutterstock; pp. 38-39: illustrations by Jason O’Malley; p. 41: pretzel: Shutterstock

2 The Nest Mag

resources organizing

money

home tours

Get your entire house in order with these quick and cheap clutter busters >>

Put away extra cash for your summer vacay! Get secrets for saving $1,000 >>

Feeling nosy? See how other couples live—and steal ideas for your pad >>

decorating

recipes

Reinvent your space over the weekend! We deliver 36 DIY decorating tips that work >>

Always ordering in? Get better-than-takeout meal ideas for busy nights >>

home buying Find out what it’s really like to buy your own place from first-time homeowners >>

cofounder Carley Roney, @carleyroney editor in Chief Rebecca Dolgin, @rebdolgin MANAGING EDITOR Kellee Kratzer, @kelleekratzer

Editorial + Art

Deputy editor editorial assistant assistant editor, research copy editor

deputy art director photo editor assistant art director junior designer photo coordinator

art director Meghan Corrigan, @meghantcorrigan Elizabeth Roehrig, @bethroehrig Rachel Sylvester, @rachelsylves Lauren Daniels, @laurenddaniels Maria Bouselli, @mariacb88 Nicolette Berthelot, @nicoberthelot Kristin Giametta, @kristingiametta Alice Stevens, @alicerstevens Ashley Castro, @ashleycastro27 Gabriella Baetti, @gsbaetti

executive VP, national enterprise group Denise Favorule Vp, sales & custom marketing solutions

Carrie S. Reynolds, carrie@xogrp.com (212) 515-3599 Associate publisher Stephanie Nicolet, snicolet@xogrp.com (917) 267-6981 midwest/west Director, advertising & Custom solutions Scott Ashmore, sashmore@xogrp.com (847) 235-2940 East home director Amy Schoenfeld, aschoenfeld@xogrp.com (917) 386-2645 midwest/west retail director Candice Reggi, creggi@xogrp.com (630) 903-6336 Account Strategy Vincent Penge, vpenge@xogrp.com (212) 515-3521 Production Manager Abby Baird, abaird@xogrp.com (212) 515-7459 Other advertiser inquiries contact National Sales, nationalsales@theknot.com (212) 515-3552 The Nest from The Knot is published by XO Group Inc., 195 Broadway, New York, NY 10007. Vol. 1, Issue 26. Copyright © 2014 XO Group Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or in part, is forbidden without written permission from the publisher. The Nest from The Knot and TheNest.com are trademarks of XO Group Inc. The Nest is not responsible for the return or loss of, or damage to, unsolicited materials. Those submitting manuscripts, photographs, artwork and other materials for consideration should not send originals, unless specifically requested to do so in writing by The Nest. Manuscripts, artwork and other materials submitted must be accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope.

spring 2014

3

small wonder open house

Take a peek at how one couple maxed out the potential of their mini-house.

By Elizabeth Roehrig

whitney + adam

4 The Nest Mag

The house Thanks to its vaulted ceiling and tons of built-ins that maximize every inch, you’d never guess that this 1920s cottage near the Venice, California, canals is just 362 square feet. “We’ve never had a moment where we’ve felt like we didn’t have enough space,” says Whitney Leigh Morris.

Donating unneeded items every month, if not every week, helps she and fiancé Adam Winkleman (and their rescue pup, StanLee) live happily in a small footprint.

The couple Initially set up over email by mutual friends, this Los Angeles pair likes to think it was fate that finally brought them face-to-face. Since the two lived on opposite ends of the city (essentially an hour commute in epic LA traffic), they had emailed for a week but hadn’t yet met. Then Whitney sent him her phone number and shortly after, while she was out to brunch with friends, he texted to say that he happened to be in her neighborhood and, as it turned out, in the same restaurant. Adam walked over, and when she finally laid eyes on him, she thought, “Oh crap! I’m going to marry this guy,” Whitney recalls. Cut to three years later: Last August, Adam proposed in their front yard. Family and friends were conveniently already on the back patio for a party that turned into an all-night celebration (nice planning, Adam!). The couple plans to get married this summer. >

spring 2014

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living

The kitchen With a dedicated spot carved out for stools, this little galley can pass for a compact eat-in kitchen. The decision to stick with a quiet palette makes the main living space seem larger and airier.

“I’m not a neutral person, but it’s a necessity here,” says Whitney, who left the walls creamy white and stayed away from busy patterns.

Bare windows let the light stream in, and when the door is open to the porch, the house feels even more spacious.

6 The Nest Mag

to the max

Clever built-ins help the couple live large in a little house.

The living room Each side of the custom sofa is the size of a twin bed, so it’s roomy enough for both Whitney and Adam to stretch out or to sleep a couple of overnight guests. Since the two love to entertain and have friends stay often, they stash extra sheets right inside the wicker trunk.

The bedroom More well-thought-out details, like the built-in nightstands, underbed storage and a pocket door, help streamline the space. “People often walk in and comment that our house is like a boat,” Whitney says. >

undercover storage Drop-down doors give access to five compartments beneath the couch, where the couple stows stuff they don’t use every day, like books, extra dog food, seldomworn shoes and an emergency kit.

Shelf help A pair of built-in end tables bookend the couch. The other table has a door and deeper cubbies fitted with baskets that house everything from office supplies to handbags. It also has an integrated outlet, so Whitney can keep her printer tucked away inside.

the shelving goes all the way to the ceiling

above & beyond Lined with candles, books and a photo of the couple, a shelf over the bedroom door becomes a pretty focal point that shows off the room’s height. hidden assets Drawers and sliding doors on each side of the bed frame store clothes and luggage.

spring 2014

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The outdoor spaces After Whitney and Adam moved in, they spruced up the once-barren back patio and yard and made two distinct spaces to lounge and entertain, essentially doubling their square footage. (The couple does live in sunny Southern California, after all.) And since the house is right in Venice, they’ve also got the canals, where StanLee loves to watch the ducks swim, and the nearby beach practically in their “backyard.” “This is a place where we can live for a very long time,” says Whitney. On the patio, lush greenery surrounds the couch, turning this spot into a cozy nook, while candles on hanging wooden trays make the side yard glow at night.

The garden Wanting to add some green to the porch without eating up the floor space, Whitney and Adam hung metal planters from the trellis to create a vertical garden. With this modular setup, they can easily add new plants or move them to get more or less sun.

The couple grows succulents, strawberries and herbs, including two kinds of basil, English lavender and mint—handy for making cocktails and meals.

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The office Impressively neat desk for someone who works from home, right? “Living here, you notice if something’s out of place immediately, so I’m mindful to put things back right away,” explains Whitney, who’s a graphic, web, event and interior designer (WhitneyLeighMorris.com). Slide-outs at both ends of the desk expand her work space (and party space when it doubles as a buffet). A basket on the floor holds magazines and hides the router—genius! [n]

click [ Check out more more stylish homes at TheNest .com ] spring 2014

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living

f o s t e r sec extremely

t ip s a n

d t r ic k

s

d e z i n a org people

it together? em to have e s s y a alm and lw a our home c y set. les who y p u p o e c e K e s . o m Envy th ne of the and-orderl them—be o m the neato fr s ie g Don’t hate te a ith these str collected w

find a home for everything When you go shopping, know where you’re going to put an item—whether it’s a piece of furniture or a piece of art— before you bring it home. Keep a list of room measurements on your smartphone to save you from a major case of buyer’s remorse. And once everything has its proper place, put it back (please!) after you’re done using it.

get good at saying no graciously (and guiltlessly) decline when you're swamped.

Your friends might love your cooking, but that doesn’t mean you have to host every dinner party. Give yourself a break once in awhile!

love your label maker Quickly find what you're looking for— be it spices or a specific storage box—with easy-to-read labels. What's more, labeling shelves in your linen closet or pantry makes it that much simpler for you and your partner to return items to their dedicated spot.

10 The Nest Mag

think vertical Utilize all your closet space—even that shelf above the clothing rod. Put bins and boxes up top to store out-of-season items and you'll really make the most of every inch of space.

buy less stuff It’s okay if you’re not a minimalist, But never grab something just because it’s on sale or free—it'll quickly turn into clutter.

choose multifunctional furniture Look for pieces that'll pull double-duty, like an open bookcase to serve as a room divider, a storage ottoman that can hold magazines or books, a coffee table with drawers to stash the remote or a dresser that can be used as a nightstand. >

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smart organizers

Get the house in order with goods from

baker's dozen

divide & conquer

Use a muffin pan to corral odds and ends in a drawer. 12-cup muffin pan, $25, Anolon Advanced, BedBathandBeyond.com

Save time by presorting recyclables into a two-bin step can. 48-liter steel bar recycler, $250, simplehuman, BedBathandBeyond.com

spring 2014

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living

make your closet a zen zone Tired of asking that same question every morning: “What the heck am I gonna wear?” Sort clothes by type (pants, skirts, blouses), then by color, to make getting dressed a no-brainer. Try slim-fit hangers to fit more garments in tight spaces, and clear shoe boxes so you can quickly ID the right pair.

don’t wait to put things away the true neatniks among us never drop their coat on a chair when it’s just as easy to hang it up. it only takes a second, and you’ll spend less time looking for it later. promise!

keep counters (mostly) clear Follow this rhyming rule of thumb: If you use it every day, it gets to stay; if you don’t, put it away.

So go ahead and leave your go-to cooking tools and coffeemaker within arm’s reach, but keep the blender and the bread maker behind closed doors.

12 The Nest Mag

store on the door A multi-pocket shoe organizer can stash so much more than footwear. Use it to tuck away jewelry, scarves, laundry supplies, hair products and accessories. You’ll be amazed at the amount of cabinet and closet space you can clear out!

Reassess every so often Tastes change, and so will your lifestyle. Make a date to do a big purge once or twice a year. If you haven’t used something since the last de-cluttering, rethink its value. Donating it to charity will make room to create an environment that you love.

time to get rid of those duplicate appliances pare down when you pair up Once you officially move in together and merge your belongings, you’re bound to wind up with doubles of many household basics, be it sets of dishes, vacuum cleaners, toasters or even couches. The solution: Keep one and sell the other on eBay, Amazon or Craigslist.

But first, plan what you’ll do with the money earned, like buy something new for your nest or put it toward a well-deserved vacation.

A goal you’ll both look forward to will make it that much easier to part with the old item. [n]

click [ Find more genius organizing tips at TheNest .com ] spring 2014

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6 living

de sign idea s

stylish window solutions

make sure that the sheers and drapes are the same length: shorter sheer = frumpy look

Couch is in. Area rug is down.

Artwork is hanging. But do your windows still look like a dorm room afterthought?

(Hint: Tacky blinds and cheap vinyl shades just don’t cut it anymore.) Take a peek at our tricks for warming up a space, merging his-and-her styles, keeping your privacy without blocking out the sun, and more.

By Krissy Tiglas

problem: You’ve got high ceilings and supersize windows that most people try to fake. We know, you’re

1

warm up cold, fishbowl-like windows

14 The Nest Mag

not complaining. But you can’t help feeling like the room looks cold and bare. Is there a chance for a warmer vibe in the future?

Style Solution: It would be silly to try to make your windows look shorter. Work with the height and choose floor-length panels to elongate and accentuate the windows’ size. Double up on rods to create a layered look with heavier curtains hung over light-filtering sheers. Drapes in a warm yellow hue can help soften up a sleek, modern room, and if they have an interior blackout lining, they’ll also block light and cold drafts. Keep them open during the day and close them at night and you just might save money on your energy bill (score!).

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get privacy without losing daylight problem: You’d like to block a less-thanstellar view (sorry, creepy neighbor)— but not the sunshine.

Style Solution:

Go topless. Leave the upper half of the window bare to let in the sun while covering up the bottom with a decorative aluminum sheet, available at most home centers.

Measure the panel so it extends to meet the edge of the window’s molding.

Then paint the panel and frame the same color. Screw the top corners of the sheet to the window. (You may also need to tack the bottom corners so it sits flat against the frame.)

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dress up a window with jewelry

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liven up a lone corner window

problem: Your drapes are nice, but they’re free-floating and lack any special details.

Style Solution: Tie-backs—they can give your curtains a more decorative touch without looking fussy. Proof? Check out this little vintage-chic accent. Make your own tie-back by hot-gluing a simple hook to a thrift store teacup saucer. problem: You’ve got a single window that’s all by its lonesome in a corner.

Style Solution: Make the window a focal point. Hang bold, geometric wallpaper and a soft Roman shade with ties to create curves that mimic the paper’s design. A smaller-print fabric in subtle hues complements the look without competing. >

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5

turn windows into a stylish work of art problem: You’ve got multiple windows on one side of a room but want to avoid the dreaded “curtains ate my wall” effect.

Style Solution:

Treat each window like a blank canvas in order to create one polished look. For example, dress the middle window in a large floral print, and then cover the adjacent windows in different solid shades of green pulled from the middle design.

windows 101 what’s the difference between: cornice

Box-like structure (usually wood) mounted on top to conceal hardware cornice

cornice

vs

valance

Decorative touch to hide the head rail (usually made of draped fabric) pleated valance

16 The Nest Mag

rod pocket drapes

Hung via a pocket sewn across the top of the fabric—ideal for a casual vibe vs

pleated Drapes

Hung via pin-on drapery hooks, creating a formal, tailored look

front slat roman

Horizontal folds on the front of a shade, giving a well-defined look to solid fabrics vs

flat roman

Made so no visible horizontal seams show—perfect for patterned fabric

if you can’t decide on one fabric, go reversible and select a two-sided drape like this one

hers his

problem: You like floral prints; he digs traditional plaids. Welcome to the masculine versus feminine tug-of-war that most newlyweds play. Before you give up—or give in—try to adjust your decorating approach so both of your preferences have equal play.

Style Solution: Choose a plaid, but do it up in softer tones like honeydew green and robin’s egg blue mixed with taupe and merge cream. Ditch the traditional rod for something a little quirky, like your styles a chunky bamboo one, and hang the drapes from twine instead of rings. Repeat the twine’s rustic texture with a sisal rug, then bring in the florals on a coordinating throw pillow. See? Compromise can be a beautiful thing. [n]

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Get even more smart decorating tips at TheNest.com.

spring 2014

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living ch ea p tricks

planters with punch Unexpected container + plants = one big green thumbs-up. (Bonus: Your friends will think you’re a gardening genius.)

By Elizabeth Roehrig

1 bread box

Trade the bread for buds: Drill holes in a vintage metal bin for drainage, then plant spring flowers like daffodils. (Now if only cutting carbs in real life was so easy... .)

Get the details from Apartment Apothecary.

2 shutters

Think of this as a garden gallery wall—the more, the merrier. Build a box on the back of each shutter, drill drainage holes in the bottom, fill with soil, then slip succulents and cuttings between the slats. Leave the shutter flat for a week to let the plants take root before hanging it. See more of garden and floral designer Baylor Chapman’s work in The Plant Recipe Book, out in April.

3 colorful tires

A pile of old tires in the yard is sure to incur the wrath of your neighbors. But paint them in bright hues and add some greenery and suddenly you’re beautifying the ‘hood. Find more info at Lemon, Bean and Things.

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4 pretty tins

Why recycle olive oil and tea tins when you can upcycle them into tasteful herb planters?

Use a hammer and nail to make drainage holes, or—hello, shortcut—just slip already potted herbs inside the tins. Learn more at Apartment Apothecary.

5 chandelier

Here’s how to make a nonworking light fixture earn its keep again: Glue small saucers and pots onto the chandelier’s arms and spray paint the entire thing. Plant ivy and petunias, then hang it on your porch.

See other great ideas at DIY ShowOff.

6 egg carton

Whip up a yummy frittata, then use the empty eggshells to make this chic little centerpiece. (Easter brunch party— check!) Fill the shells with moss, succulents and flowers, then nestle them back into the carton. For a step-by-step guide, visit Le Robin’s Nest.

18 The Nest Mag

try this cool, unexpected take on Easter eggs

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Dig up new gardening ideas at TheNest.com Spring 2014

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y ummy weeknight meals Don’t think a salad could be hearty enough for dinner? Wait until you try these fresh, flavorful and surprisingly filling options.

chef’s secret

shrimp, feta and orzo salad ingredients

for dressing

serves 2

½ garlic clove, chopped 2 Tbl. fresh lemon juice ¼ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves 2 tsp. fresh oregano leaves, minced ¼ cup olive oil

1 garlic clove, minced ¾ Tbl. fresh lemon juice 2 Tbl. olive oil 1½ tsp. fresh oregano leaves, minced Salt and freshly ground black pepper ½ lb. medium shrimp (about 18), shelled and deveined ¾ cup orzo, uncooked ⅓ cup crumbled feta (about 2 oz.)

1 medium tomato, chopped 3 scallions, sliced ½ c up packed fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, finely chopped 1 cup baby greens, washed and rinsed

20 The Nest Mag

directions 1 In a bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano and salt and pepper to taste. Add shrimp to marinade, stirring to coat well.

2 Cover shrimp and chill for 1 hour.

3 Meanwhile, cook orzo according to package instructions. Transfer to a large bowl and let cool.

feta too salty? soak it in spring water for a few minutes before serving 4 For the dressing, process all ingredients and salt and pepper to taste in a blender until emulsified.

5 When orzo is cool, stir in feta, tomato, scallions and parsley. Add dressing to taste and toss well. Season with salt and pepper.

6 Heat grill pan to medium-high.

Remove shrimp from marinade; discard marinade. Grill shrimp until just cooked through, about 2 minutes on each side.

7 Remove shrimp from grill pan with tongs, then toss gently with the orzo mixture.

8 Line salad bowls with baby greens and fill with orzo salad.

chickpea salad with chicken breast ingredients serves 2

2 Tbl. minced garlic 2 Tbl. fresh ginger, peeled and grated 1 tsp. ground cumin Salt ¼ tsp. ground red pepper 1 lb. boneless chicken breasts 1 (15-oz.) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained 2 tomatoes, halved and quartered ½ cucumber, halved and quartered 1 tsp. curry powder 1 Tbl. lemon juice 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced 2 scallions, sliced 2 Tbl. fresh cilantro, chopped 2 Tbl. fresh mint, chopped

directions 1 Combine garlic, ginger, cumin, ½ tsp. salt and ground red pepper; sprinkle on all sides of chicken breasts. Cover and chill for 1 hour.

2 Stir chickpeas and remaining ingredients together; season to taste.

Cover and chill.

3 Grill chicken, covered with lid, over medium-high heat (375°F) for 5 minutes on each side. Cut into ½-inch slices.

Tent with foil to keep warm.

4 Divide chickpea mixture between salad bowls and top with the sliced chicken. >

prep and serve

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Toss and serve in this beautiful wood bowl. Butterfly salad bowl with servers, $195, Nambé, BedBathandBeyond.com

chop star Puree dressings and cut up veggies with one compact machine. 3.5-cup food chopper, $40, KitchenAid, BedBathandBeyond.com

perfect presentation

matched set A timeless addition to any table.

Butterfly individual salad bowls, $85 for a set of 4, Nambé, BedBathandBeyond.com spring 2014

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TIP ed meatn b a not ig rrec e ca fan? thismadipe with also be salmon or grilled tuna seared

thai-style beef salad with cilantro, mint, lime and peanuts ingredients

dressing

Serves 2

Pinch red-pepper flakes 1 garlic clove ¼ t sp. salt Finely grated zest from 1 lime, plus ⅓ cup lime juice 1 Tbl. brown sugar ½ t sp. Thai fish sauce ½ t sp. soy sauce

1 tsp. vegetable oil ¾ lb. beef tenderloin, fat trimmed Salt and freshly ground black pepper 2 large shallots, thinly sliced 1 handful of roasted, skinless peanuts, roughly chopped 1 handful of fresh mint leaves, stems removed and large leaves torn in half 1 bunch fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped 1½ Little Gem lettuces or ½ large romaine lettuce head

22 The Nest Mag

directions 1 Rub vegetable oil all over beef and lightly season it with salt and pepper. Let the beef rest at room temperature for 15 minutes, covered with plastic wrap.

2 Heat a heavy skillet or grill pan. Sear beef over high heat until the outside is a dark brown, then remove from pan and let rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.

3 Meanwhile, make the dressing: Grind red pepper flakes, garlic, salt, lime zest and brown sugar in a mortar until it’s a paste.

Add lime juice, fish sauce and soy sauce to thin it out. Mix thoroughly.

4 Slice beef thinly against the grain and place the slices in a bowl along with the shallots, half of the peanuts, and most of the mint and cilantro leaves. Pour all of the dressing over the beef mixture and gently toss it together to coat.

5 To serve, divide lettuce leaves between 2 plates and then place beef mixture on top. Scatter remaining peanuts and herbs over the salad to garnish.

Recipe adapted from Salads: Innovative Main Courses, Appetizers, Desserts, and More by Peter Gordon. © 2006. Used with permission of Clarkson Potter.

green salad with bacon, egg and parmesan ingredients

directions

Serves 2

1 Divide arugula between 2 salad bowls or plates. Add bacon and croutons.

2 Place eggs in a small saucepan. Add just enough cold water to completely cover them, then remove eggs. Bring water to a rolling boil, add eggs and reduce to a simmer. Cook 3 to 5 minutes, depending on how cooked through you want them.

3 Top each salad with a soft cooked egg, cut in half, and shaved Parmesan. Drizzle oil and vinegar over salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste. >

2 cups young arugula leaves, rinsed and dried Âź lb. bacon, cooked and cut in pieces 1 cup croutons 2 eggs Shaved Parmesan cheese 1 Tbl. olive oil 1 Tbl. red wine vinegar Salt and freshly ground black pepper

chef’s secret

run cooked eggs under ice-cold water for faster peeling

spring 2014

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IP

T don’t likue ntchooe ked tex ture icofkly sear the tofu? quated cubes to marin it of crunch add a b

ying yang salad with peanut-sesame dressing ingredients

dressing

directions

Serves 2

⅓ cup creamy peanut butter ¼ cup brown rice vinegar ⅛ cup maple syrup 1½ Tbl. water 1 Tbl. tamari 1½ tsp. fresh ginger, peeled and minced 1 garlic clove ¾ tsp. toasted sesame oil ⅛ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes ½ c up cilantro leaves, lightly packed

1 Cut tofu into ½-inch cubes. Combine cubes and ginger marinade; cover and refrigerate them overnight.

2 Blend peanut butter, vinegar, maple syrup, water, tamari, ginger, garlic, sesame oil and crushed red pepper flakes in a food processor until smooth. Add cilantro and blend just until it’s finely chopped.

Set dressing aside.

3 Toss cabbage, carrot, radish and scallions in large bowl with enough dressing to coat. Place salad into 2 wide, shallow bowls or onto plates. Arrange marinated tofu around salad. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve. [n]

1 (12-oz.) container extra-firm tofu, drained 2 cups store-bought ginger marinade 2 cups shredded Napa cabbage 1½ cups shredded red cabbage 1 carrot, peeled and julienned 1 (2½-inch) piece daikon radish, peeled and julienned 5 scallions, julienned ½ cup peanut-sesame dressing 1 Tbl. toasted sesame seeds

click [ Get more delish recipes at TheNest .com ] 24 The Nest Mag

Recipe adapted from The Real Food Daily Cookbook

by Ann Gentry. © 2005. Used with permission of Ten Speed Press.

Because after the wedding, you’ll be married.

The rules—and roles—of marriage have changed, and The Nest Newlywed Handbook is your road map to modern married life guiding you through the ins and outs of being a twosome. Based on the thousands of questions posted weekly on TheNest.com, this manual is filled with the secrets every couple needs to know from those who have lived through it. The easy, fun format includes: • Postwedding to-do lists • Money worksheets • Organizing checklists • In-law advice • Quizzes • Etiquette lessons The Nest Newlywed Handbook From Carley Roney and the Editors of TheNest.com Available wherever books are sold

• Modern rules of romance • Tips on décor and more!

This is the book every bride will need the day after the wedding ... and beyond.

living ch e e rs

pitcher

perfect sangrias

Kick up your next cocktail party with one of these impressive (yet super-simple) make-ahead drinks.

sicilian sangria Blood oranges give this drink its tart edge.

Out of season? Swap them for a ruby red grapefruit.

ingredients serves 7

1 bottle Italian red wine 1 cup orange juice ½ cup orange curaçao ¼ cup simple syrup 2 blood oranges, cut into wedges 1 white peach, cut into wedges 1 lime, cut into half wheels Prosecco (Italian sparkling wine), as needed

directions Place all of the ingredients, except the prosecco, in a large ceramic or glass container and stir well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (best if overnight). Serve over ice in wineglasses.

Add additional fruit, if desired. Top with a splash of prosecco and stir.

Recipes from 101 Sangrias and Pitcher Drinks by Kim Haasarud, photography by Alexandra Grablewski. Text copyright © 2008 by Kim Haasarud. Photography copyright © 2008 by Alexandra Grablewski. Reprinted by permission of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

26 The Nest Mag

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orchid blossoms make for a fun and festive garnish

cocktail essentials Find everything you need for your own party-ready bar at

bubbles for your cocktails Whip up your own seltzer, tonic, ginger ale or even margarita mix at home in seconds.

Revolution starter kit, $180, SodaStream, BedBathandBeyond.com

hibiscus sangria This mellow recipe gets most of its flavor from hibiscus tea.

Bonus: It’s super-pretty!

ingredients serves 8

1 bottle dry white wine 2 cups hibiscus tea (already steeped and cooled) ½ cup lemon juice ½ cup simple syrup ¼ cup orange curaçao ¼ cup gin 1 orange, cut into slices 1 lemon, cut into slices 1 liter lemon-lime soda

1 lemon, thinly sliced for garnish (optional) Orchids, for garnish (optional)

directions Combine all of the ingredients, except for the soda and garnishes, in a large ceramic or glass container and stir well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Serve over ice and fill each glass about halfway.

Top with soda and garnish with a thin lemon wheel and orchid. >

tough crystal Cheers! These sleek glasses are both dishwasher-safe and breakage-resistant.

Crescendo SON.hyx glassware, from $30 for a set of 4, Luigi Bormioli, BedBathandBeyond.com

spring 2014

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TIP with h c ea top erglaofsssliced a skew an d banana, toaphpinlet at mango vors the drink’s fla

fandango sangria This fruity Spanish-style version gets its oomph from cinnamon and cloves.

ingredients serves about 20

2 bottles of Spanish red wine Ÿ cup sugar 1 red apple, cored and sliced 1 green apple, cored and sliced 1 orange, cut into wedges 1 peach, pit removed and sliced 1 banana, peeled and sliced 1 mango, peeled and sliced 1 cinnamon stick 12 cloves (stuck into the citrus fruits or apples) 1 ½ liters lemon-lime soda

directions Combine all the ingredients, except for the soda, in a large ceramic or glass container and stir well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (best if overnight). Just prior to serving, add the soda. Serve over ice.

Garnish with additional fruit. [n]

click [ Mix up drinks like a pro with recipes from TheNest.com ] 28 The Nest Mag

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you want a piece of me?

soci al studie s

Divvy up your free time so you can dish out the biggest slice to the people you really like—and (politely) leave crumbs for the ones you don’t.

By Sarah Jio

30 The Nest Mag

Feel like everyone’s demanding a piece of your time and sometimes seconds too?

We hate to break it to you, Mr. and Mrs. Popular, but not everyone can get the portion they think they deserve, or the most important person (that would be you) will be left with just crumbs. Here’s how to slice up your social pie so everyone gets the amount you think they deserve.

She called last night (twice actually), and she’s already left a voice mail this morning: “Are you coming to your nephew’s second birthday party this weekend? If you miss it, your sister will be devastated. Plus, I never see you anymore... .” You love her, you swear you do, but sometimes you could just…anyway, the last thing you want to do is waste your weekend watching two-year-olds run around at Chuck E. Cheese’s.

PIECE OF YOUR SOCIAL PIE Come on, she’s your mom. She may be a little annoying, but she loves you and misses you (yep, we went there with the guilt). Suck it up and go to the kid’s party—there will be pizza! Then check in with a weekly phone call, plus the occasional dinner. That, and visits for major holidays, should keep Mom happy—and you sane.

When you were both single, you were a force to be reckoned with. But now that you’ve found yourself a mate—and your pal’s still on the prowl—your relationship has changed. Unfortunately, your Sigma Chi bro doesn’t try to hide his disappointment at all: “You’re so whipped. Why don’t you grow a pair already?” The truth is, you just don’t get your thrills from shotgunning beers anymore (at least not at 11 a.m. on a Sunday). Still, the bonds of brotherhood are way too strong to completely cut him out.

PIECE OF YOUR SOCIAL PIE You do have a history with this guy (even if he tends to be more of a jerk these days), so just be straight with him: You’d love to watch an occasional football game or grab a beer after work sometime, but he’s going to have to find a new wingman for picking up college chicks. There’s a reason you’ve settled down—you’re over that part of your life, and you’re happy about it. So if he wants to keep hanging out, he needs to be cool with that. Final verdict: A once-a-month meet up is plenty for now.

They’ve been there through it all: the what-am-I-doingwith-my-life phase, the failed relationships and questionable hookups and, of course, the big decision to move in with someone. But now that you’re all so busy with your careers and significant others, somehow the crew that’s most important to you barely gets face time, while the people you’re not even that crazy about (in-laws?) hog much more of your schedule.

PIECE OF YOUR SOCIAL PIE It’s time to shuffle your social priorities around. Just because your best buds understand when you have to work late or put in family time doesn’t mean they should get a smaller piece. Research indicates that connections like these are great for your mental and physical health. Read: They make you happy. So make a point to hang at least twice a month. And don’t miss their birthdays and housewarmings—that stuff really does matter. >

Spring 2014

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life

You know the one—the person who’s been in your life ever since you can remember, which is probably the reason you put up with this pal’s seriously uncool shenanigans (standing you up, criticizing your relationship and competing over just about everything).

Every time you meet up, you go home angry, yet something keeps you coming back for more. Maybe it’s the fact that you’ve known each other since preschool or maybe you’re just a masochist—either way, you’re running out of excuses for why you can’t check out your frenemy’s “amazing” new pad.

PIECE OF YOUR SOCIAL PIE As hard as it is, it may be time to cut ties with this old “friend.” Life’s just too short (and your time’s too precious) to waste on relationships that drag you down, even those that began in the sandbox. But we get it, breaking up with friends is never fun. This is a situation that calls for the passive-aggressive slow fade—“Sorry, I can’t this weekend, but maybe the next one?”—repeated a few times until those crumbs of your time become zilch. Or just take the mature route: Step up and air your grievances already.

You guys are war buddies now that you share a new boss whose temper puts Gordon Ramsay’s to shame.

While you may not have a lot in common outside the office, you know it’s important to hit happy hour with coworkers for professional reasons. But maintaining work ties can feel like more, um, work.

So you reschedule drinks a million times, and somehow that cocktail just never happens.

PIECE OF YOUR SOCIAL PIE The annoying but true reality: It’s important to make an effort with coworkers and to keep in touch with other people in your industry too. It’ll help you stay relevant, and it could even get you a promotion or new gig. That means throwing back an occasional after-work beer is actually good for your career. What’s one night every six weeks or so compared with the payoff of a great job rec or promotion?

32 The Nest Mag

Of course you love being around your special roomie (isn’t that why you moved in together?). Problem is, when you’re trying to please all the other people in your life, it’s easy to neglect the person closest to you—after all, you’ll see each other when you get home later anyway, right?

PIECE OF YOUR SOCIAL PIE It can be tempting to spend all of your free time hibernating à deux, but just remember that too much together time isn’t a good idea. Even the best relationships need breathing room. But that doesn’t mean your other half doesn’t deserve a healthy portion. In case you haven’t already figured it out, sharing a life together means spending a good amount of time together too. So go ahead and give ’em the biggest chunk— because this particular person requires lots of extra time for something you don’t get to do with anyone else (wink, wink).

Now that you share a home, you apparently need to share friends too—at least your partner thinks so. She’s hoping you’ll hit it off with this guy so the four of you can double date, or maybe go in on a beach house together this summer. So when he invites you over to watch the game, she won’t stop dropping “hints” that it would really mean a lot to her if you went. The guy seems perfectly normal, but you’ve got plenty of other people you’d rather hang with.

PIECE OF YOUR SOCIAL PIE Hate to break it to you, but now that she’s dropped the “it would really mean a lot to me” bomb, you’re stuck going over there to watch the game—at least this time. Since it’s important to your wife that you make an effort, fork over at least a baby slice for the dude on occasion. Maybe you’ll discover a shared love of the Patriots and PBR. But if the chemistry’s just not there, hey, at least you tried— and things won’t be awkward when you see him on Pictionary night.

She moved her mat and helped you squeeze into class when you were 10 minutes late, and then you shared a laugh about the creepy guy in the back who seemed to enjoy watching you do camel pose a little too much.

Sure, she seemed like fun, but that doesn’t mean you want to give up sushi and The Real Housewives for a Tuesday night spent sipping green tea with your new friend. Geez, it’s technically a school night after all.

PIECE OF YOUR SOCIAL PIE Oh, come on now—when did you become so lame? New friendships keep life fresh and interesting! And who knows, she may end up becoming one of your closest friends. Okay, she could also be a total whack job—but the point is, there’s only one way to find out. You don’t have to expend a ton of energy on a start-up friendship, but throw her a bone (or some crumbs). One coffee or tea date won’t kill you. If you two just don’t mesh, no need to return her calls. And you can always switch yoga classes, since you’re usually running late for that one anyway. [n]

Nestperts: Connie Stapleton, PhD, a licensed psychologist and author in Augusta, Georgia (MindBodyHealthServices.com), and LeslieBeth Wish, EdD, a Florida-based psychologist and relationship expert (LoveVictory.com)

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Find out if you’re wasting time on toxic friends at TheNest.com Spring 2014

33

life

coastal castle Get a serious case of real estate envy at Hearst Castle

happy trails trips for t wo

weekend road trips

Depending on where you live, these three-day getaways are close enough to get to on two tanks of gas but far enough to feel a million miles away. A long weekend not enough? Pack up your car and make it a seven-day trip!

By Cemile Kavountzis

34 The Nest Mag

Go for a ride—the Madonna Inn has horses on-site and 1,000 acres of trails

2 dc metro

From Washington, DC Road trip to West Virginia

color splash

This state’s country roads are lush and beautiful. Once you reach your destination, get ready for white-water rafting and more.

Day 1 Go west on I-66 to I-81 south; switch to I-64 west at Lexington and take it to White Sulphur Springs. Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, The Greenbrier brings together old Southern grandeur and natural beauty, plus a luxurious spa and championship golf courses (from $199, Greenbrier.com).

Day 2 Drive west on I-64 and continue on Route 19 north to Fayetteville for easy access to New River Gorge’s whitewater rafting and rugged national park.

Stay overnight in a local B&B, like The Historic Morris Harvey House (from $85, MorrisHarveyHouse.com; mention The Nest when booking for a 10-percent discount).

Day 3 Head east to the Lost World Caverns near Lewisburg for a cool tour 120 feet below ground (tours from $12, LostWorldCaverns.com). >

down under Lost World Caverns’ Ice Cream Wall

victorian detail Stained glass at The Historic Morris Harvey House

Lounge by the pool or in one of Madonna Inn’s uniquely kitschy rooms

1 california

From LA (or SF) Road trip to San Luis Obispo

and Central Coast wineries

Midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, visit California’s Central Coast wine country and the Santa Ynez Valley.

Day 1 Take Highway 1 north (or south from San Francisco) to US 101 and follow it to San Luis Obispo (SLO). Spend the afternoon exploring SLO’s small-town charms and 18th-century mission, then check into the eccentric Madonna Inn (from $189, MadonnaInn.com).

Day 2 Drive to Hearst Castle, about an hour away in San Simeon (tours from $25, Hearst Castle.org). Later, backtrack inland to Paso Robles’s local wineries and stay overnight at Summerwood Winery’s intimate inn (from $275, SummerwoodWine.com).

Day 3 Pick a coastal stop about two hours away, like Ventura (if you’re going to Los Angeles) or Monterey (if you’re bound for San Francisco), and enjoy a seaside lunch.

american classic Famed decorator Dorothy Draper designed The Greenbrier’s interiors

this old house The 1902 Queen Anne–style home is now a B&B spring 2014

35

vineyard views Tour the winery, then stay at the Shinn Estate Farmhouse Inn

life

seaside scene Spend a lazy afternoon tktk caption on Shelter Island’s Cenditinum fugitat Crescent Beach occum faccus earum

4 new york

From New York City Road trip to Long Island’s

North Fork and Shelter Island

great outdoors Hike the canyon trails in Tallulah Gorge State Park

3 atlanta

From Atlanta Road trip to The

Georgia Mountains

Just northeast of Atlanta, the Georgia Mountains boast stunning state parks, hilly wineries and lovely little towns.

Day 1 To get to Dahlonega, take Highway 19 about 60 miles north. Stay at the charming Mountain Laurel Creek Inn & Spa (from $164, MountainLaurelCreek.com). After a massage, stroll through the town’s historic center, then drive through the bright green hills to visit area wineries, such as Montaluce Winery & Estates (Montaluce.com).

Day 2 Continue northeast on Route 115 to Tallulah Gorge State Park, which has a spectacular canyon. At the park, hike, mountain bike, swim or white-water paddle.

Day 3 Take the scenic route back west to Anna Ruby Falls and then head south to the Alpine-themed town of Helen.

36 The Nest Mag

tasting notes Sip some vino at Dahlonega’s Montaluce Winery

Hop in your car and take the Long Island Expressway (LIE) to North Fork’s vineyards and the beachside town of Shelter Island.

Day 1 Take the LIE (I-495 east) to the last exit, number 73, Old Country Road. Follow it all the way to Greenport (it becomes Route 25) and take the car ferry to Shelter Island. Stay at the stylish Sunset Beach and check out the hopping nightlife (opens in May; from $345, SunsetBeachLI.com).

Day 2 Go back to Greenport and tour North Fork’s wine country. The noteworthy Shinn Estate Vineyards in Mattituck is off Exit 71 from the expressway; they host weekend tastings and run a historic four-room B&B (from $159, ShinnEstateVineyards.com).

Day 3 After breakfast, drive on Route 25A along the north shore to Sand Points Preserve for views of the Long Island Sound; then head back to the city on the LIE.

vintage wheels Hotel San José’s mascot (the owner’s dog Moses) in the property’s 1974 Scout

6 chicago

From Chicago Road trip to Wisconsin

Treat yourself at Kohler’s fancy American Club, make a rest stop at a pretty state park and sip brewskis in Milwaukee.

Day 1 Take I-94 West and continue north on I-43 to Kohler-Andrae State Park, where you can laze on the shores of Lake Michigan. In nearby Kohler, stay at The American Club Resort Hotel and indulge in spa treatments (from $179, AmericanClubResort.com).

Day 2 Drive to Lake Winnebago via Highway 23. Shoot down I-41 to Milwaukee for an evening of brews and ribs.

Day 3 Shake off the night before with a walk through The Pabst Mansion; then drive back on I-94 (tours $9, PabstMansion.com). [n]

5 texas

From Houston Road trip to Austin and

Hill Country

modern digs Austin’s Hotel San José has a funky, minimalist vibe

Wildflowers, wine and good music: Austin and Hill Country are like San Francisco and Sonoma but with a Texas swagger.

Day 1 Start out on I-10 west and take Highway 71 northwest to Austin. Check into the hip boutique Hotel San José (from $185, SanJoseHotel.com); then take in Austin’s artsy scene and live music acts.

Day 2 Check out Hill Country via Highway 290. On your way to Fredericksburg, stop at wineries like the Texas Hills Vineyard in Johnson City. Unwind at a rustic B&B like Fredericksburg Herb Farm (from $179, FredericksburgHerbFarm.com).

Day 3 Just outside of Fredericksburg, the Willow City Loop is a colorful detour through the wildflower-dotted Hill Country.

house of brews Visit the Pabst Mansion for a peek into the brewery baron’s 1892 home

calming waters A relaxation pool at The American Club’s Kohler Waters Spa

april flowers Blueblonnets spring up along Hill Country roads

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Get more trip ideas at TheNest.com.

spring 2014

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ba by clock

offbeat signs you’re ready for a baby Sometimes it’s the silliest things that mean your biological clock has started ticking. Is it time for you to make the leap?

38 The Nest Mag

You're not totally bored at a friend's baby shower.

Admit it: Baby showers can be mind-numbing. Sure, the baby clothes are cute and the mama-to-be looks absolutely adorable, but who isn't secretly watching the clock? I'll tell you who: Women who are ready to sport a big ol’ belly themselves. If you find yourself taking mental notes about which gifts you do and don't want for your own baby and dreaming about perfect shower locales, you’re in mommy mode.

You can tell a Bugaboo from a Maclaren—and you have a preference.

Are you a sporty and active City Mini kind of mom, or do you prefer the smarts and sophistication of a Bugaboo? Or maybe you like the preppy Maclaren. If you have the faintest idea what I'm talking about, you're definitely ready to have a baby.

You’re less interested in Christian Louboutins, and more interested in the name Christian.

Names like Marc Jacobs and Donna Karan once elicited thoughts of sexy stilettos and designer dresses. Now they bring to mind, well, cool baby name ideas. Ditto with celebrity monikers (“Reese would be great for a boy or a girl!”).

It probably means you want a real baby to name.

You crave the pregnancy glow.

Your pregnant friends have shiny hair, gorgeous glowing skin and even stronger fingernails.

Sometimes you stand in front of the mirror and wonder what pregnancy will look like on you.

It may be time to find out!

You figure out when you’re ovulating and feel a thrill when you and your partner have sex on those days—even with protection.

Think of it as a practice run. If you know it could actually happen if you weren't on the pill, and you're excited about it (maybe even turned on by it), then stop popping those birth control pills and go for it! (But definitely discuss it with him first.)

Cute dog? You didn’t notice.

If you're a dog person and suddenly want a baby, you'll start seeing your pup—and pups on the street—differently.

When you’re ready for the real deal, paws just can't take the place of 10 little pink toes.

You’ve perused the aisles of A Pea in the Pod for fun.

And you were impressed with how stylish maternity wear is. You’d actually wear that wrap dress! Sorry to inform you: They make wrap dresses in nonpregnant sizes too. You were in there for a reason, and it wasn’t to bone up on trends. You want a pea in your pod.

click [ Get the scoop on pregnancy at TheBump.com ] spring 2014

39

love inside th e ir live s

real couples hed here

Sneak a peek at the lives of these lovebirds.

By It’sRachel the oneSylvester room you shrink from scrubbing. No more! 6 ways to make your bathroom a sparkling, sanitary sanctuary. By Alonna Friedman

Maya, 34, and Troy, 34 irv ine , ca

Terra, 27, and Habib, 29

statu s Married June 21, 2013 Caree rs They’re both attorneys, but they

tu cso n, az ril 6, 2013

sta tu s Married Ap Terra describes it: Ho w Th ey Me t As

American girl at “A Lebanese boy met an Argentinean’s an a Polish restaurant for ed her to ask bib Ha birthday.” Once y. tor his s wa t res dance, the newlyweds de-stress Un wi nd Tim e The Bang Theory and with episodes of The Big ort.

The Colbert Rep , 2,190-square-foot Dig s A three-bedroom ore getting engaged home they built shortly bef Habibti, Habibi and he calls her him ls Nic kn am es She cal !) ww (Aw . bic y love” in Ara both of which mean “m er. r; he’s an electrical engine che tea a ’s She Ca ree rs ke compromises ma er, oth h eac t pec Res Rel at ion shi p Ru le ch you love one another. and never forget how mu m, they’ve traveled Between the both of the Wo rld Tra vel ers nce. (And al, Spain, Jamaica and Fra to Germany, Brazil, Portug it!) ve igerator magnets to pro they have dozens of refr rs together, After more than six yea sal Th e Per fec t Pro po in Sedona, ona Sed de rge trip to L’Aube the two took a weekend ! prised Terra with a ring Arizona, where Habib sur ereas she says wh et, qui and m cal ’s He Op po sit es At tra ct nal.” she’s “talkative and emotio ted their honeymoon, they visi For d oa abr ad ven tu res y had their the ere wh d, ilan Tha , Phuket e spent all of own villa. “We could hav !” ort res the our time just at ur chefs ate am y’re The FOOD FANS food together too. “We cook so much asking us ays that our friends are alw t!” ran tau to open up a res

right after he proposed!

1 The 40 TheNest NestMag Mag

practice different areas of law. “It’s great to have a partner who under stands your career, but we try not to ‘talk shop’ when we get home.”

How They Met The two met in law schoo l in 2003 and quickly became each other’s “one that got away.” They finally started dating eight years later.

Guilt y pleas ures Sleeping in on the weeke nds, Brazilian barbecue, and good wine and whiskey Baby Clock They’re expecting their first this year.

Unwi nd Time Playing with their two pets: spoiled cat Maggie (how cute is she?), and their one-eyed Vizsla, Nemo pet peeve s Troy loves to procrastinate, while Maya is too impatient to let anything wait until tomor row.

Nickn ames “We don’t have any...yet. Guess we need to work on those!”

Wine and a wedd ing For their first date, Troy

took Maya on a weekend wine tasting trip to Santa Barbara, California. They loved the locale so much, they ended up having their wedding there two years later! hobb ies When they’re not reading or enjoyi ng a good movie, these two are traveling. They most recently went to Costa Rica and are planning a babymoon to Rome and Venice, Italy. “We try to fit in a trip at least every other month.”

In 10 Years They’ ll Be Still traveling, still reading and still very much in love

their first date was at a vineyard

Kelsey, 27, and Jas on, 30

Christina, 26, and Neal, 32

el paso, tx

manassas, va

statu s Married April 1, 2010 New to the neigh borh ood Since he’s a

ril 14, 2012

sta tu s Married Ap outside of DC , 1,008-square-foot rental Dig s A two-bedroom io-visual aud an is al Ne a teacher and Ca ree rs Christina is

two different states!) specialist. (They work in in a nd approached Christina frie al’s Ho w Th ey Me t Ne ce On up. m set the two of the sporting goods store and tting. cha p sto ’t ldn cou s, they just they exchanged number me on my ls cal l stil he , day this rs. To “We would talk for hou forever.” talk we and ak bre ch lun posed pro al His to ry buf fs Ne e org Ge n, rno at Mount Ve e, in hom er form s on’ ngt Washi ia. gin Vir , dria xan Ale two chill Un wi nd Tim e These up their ng usi and out by hiking ney Dis alt (W e tim n vacatio tion). tina des e orit fav a is rld Wo gging plu Un le Rel at ion shi p Ru nes in pho our put e “W is essential. from work so that we e hom get we en wh a basket on each other.” can spend time focusing .

Stina; she calls him Nealy her ls Nic kn am es He cal and Neal’s City k Yor w Ne Christina’s from co mm on gr ou nd elers fans.

Ste yet they’re both Pittsburgh originally from Chicago, se cha pur re The occasional thrift-sto Gu ilt y ple asu res their in ng Livi Be ll In 10 Yea rs Th ey’ their h wit g elin trav and e dream hom sible children as often as pos football games and Ho bbi es Attending watching movies the occasional concert, rs and everything Star Wa r relationship “Ou e upl Co y irk Qu Th e very unique.” and n is very much our ow

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sergeant first class in the U.S. Army, these two move around a lot. “Every time the Army moves us, it gives us a new area to explore.”

How They Met Even though they went to rival high schools, these two met through mutual friends.

Pets A German shepherd/beagle mix named Hendrix and Toby, their 23-pound (!!!) Yorkie Digs A three-bedroom, two-bathroom home in Texas and a home at their last duty station in Phenix City, Alabama Spous e secre ts There aren’t any with this pair. “Always be honest and up-front. No matter how bad somet hing seems, it’s always worse to lie about it.” unwi nd time These two love to travel to new places, but they also enjoy relaxing at home and watching TV on Monday nights.

Baby Clock “We’re in no hurry!”

Guilt y pleas ures He likes to sneak yogur t-covered pretzels into their grocery basket, while she’s a brownie fanatic.

Hobb ies Jason appreciates cars and cigars . Kelsey loves DIY projects and photography. “We have enoug h in common to enjoy things together, but enough differences that we can enjoy our time apart.”

Keeping the peace Their relationship?

Fun and easygoing.

“We can literally count on one hand the number of fights that we’ve actually had. From day one, it’s just been so easy to be around one another.”

In 10 Years They’ ll Be Living in a home they love and working at their ideal jobs, all while raising two children together

his guilty pleasure

Want to share your love story?

Send your info to realcouples@TheNest . com spring fall2014 2013

41 2

love

instant expert

upgrading your engagement ring We know you’d be happy with a twist tie as long as you’re married to Mr. Right, but if your engagement ring isn’t the bauble you’ve always dreamed of, consider trading up. Read on for the keys to nicer ice.

by Erin Hill

why upgrade?

Trading in your rock has become more popular than ever—from stone swapping to adding more bling to your existing ring.

“The trend with young adults is that they’ll get a $10,000 ring, and a few years later, they’ll want it to be larger,” explains Debi Wexler of WhiteFlash.com. “It’s a way of showing their appreciation for the longevity of the relationship.” Here’s why many choose to upgrade: Size You love the shape of your diamond, but you came down with DSS (Diamond Shrinkage Syndrome). The more you look at it, the, uh, smaller it seems to get.

1 The 42 TheNest NestMag Mag

Style Your mate chose a pear-shaped cut in a gold setting, but now you’d much prefer a princess cut in a platinum setting.

Let’s face it: You‘re not sporting the same haircut you were five years ago, right? Why not wear a ring that better reflects your current style?

Stones You’d love to add more stones to your original ring to amp up the sparkle.

Setting You were given an heirloom from one of your or his relatives that you now want to reset or turn into a necklace or keepsake. You’d rather have a more modern, everyday ring that reflects your individuality and doesn’t feel like the old “family stone.”

work with your original jeweler Before you even think about upgrading your ring, find out what your jeweler’s policy is.

It can vary: For example, WhiteFlash.com offers a lifetime policy on their branded diamonds, which allows you to trade them in for the full value you paid; Tacori applies a percentage of credit (usually around 75 percent) toward purchasing a new ring; and De Beers will upgrade your ring depending on an on-site appraisal of its current value.

Also factor in setting costs. An upgrade from a 1.5-carat to a 2-carat stone won’t fit into your original setting, so you’ll need to get a new one, which will increase the price of your upgrade. You don’t have to toss the original setting, though; consider putting a colored stone in it for a right-hand ring.

brush up on the basics Here are the top things to remember when you trade in your ice: Cut Keep in mind that round and princess cuts are easier to upgrade than fancier cuts like radiant, pear or cushion.

Quality A higher-quality diamond is more likely to receive a higher upgrade value.

Your diamond should also be in the same condition as when you received it.

Certification Certified diamonds (AGS or GIA) are more easily upgraded than noncertified diamonds. Always ask to see the certification for the new diamond.

get more bling for your buck There are some sneaky ways to squeeze the most value out of your upgrade: Don’t round up Going from a 1-carat to a 1.9-carat is cheaper than going to a 2-carat, but you can’t tell the difference visually.

Skimp on clarity and color You might assume that the four Cs are all of equal weight, but that’s not the case. Clarity and color aren’t as important as cut or carat when it comes to making a visible difference.

Go online You can often get better deals from online discount jewelry retailers like BlueNile.com and Ice.com. These sites are ranked among the top online jewelry shops

by InternetRetailer.com.

Buy used or estate jewelry Search for estate sales in your area and frequent the classified section of the newspaper for deals.

size matters 62% of Nesties would trade their stone in for a larger one

would you trade in your ring?

We asked Nesties for the dirt on their diamonds.

daisyterp

Shop overseas Take a second honeymoon to The Bahamas, Cayman Islands or Mexico, and you could save from 40 to 60 percent on new jewelry.

weigh the sentimental factor Not willing to part with your original rock?

Consider these options: Try a Past, Present and Future ring You can place the upgraded stone in the middle (which represents the present) and have two other smaller stones set on the outside (to represent the past and future).

Reuse part of the ring Remount the original stone(s) as earrings or a pendant.

Keep the original setting If the size difference isn’t significant, you may still be able to replace the diamond without affecting your original setting.

Add anniversary bands instead If the idea of altering your diamond in any way leaves you uneasy, take a different route by adding stackable diamond bands.

insure your new ring Whether you insured your first ring or not, now’s the time to cover your new assets: Get appraised If you’ve added value to an existing ring or purchased a new one, you need a new appraisal (from a certified gemologist or your jeweler) in order to update your existing insurance policy.

Secure a rider Ring insurance is best purchased as an extension (typically referred to as a “rider”) to add on to your renters or homeowners policy. You must provide all your receipts and an appraisal.

Questions to ask n Is the ring covered if it’s lost accidentally, or only if it’s stolen? n How will the company replace the ring? n Is the ring insured to its full value? n What’s needed to prove that the ring vanished if a claim is made? [n]

“I would upgrade the center stone and change the cut to an oval. Because my current ring has a family stone, it would have to go onto a necklace.”

LauraMo

“If we had the means to upgrade it in the future, I wouldn’t mind. My husband’s proposal is what meant so much to me, not the object that he put on my finger.”

Aimee0289

“I’ve always wanted a wedding set with a solitaire and matching band, but we couldn’t afford it at the time. My husband upgraded it for our one-year anniversary. I wear the original ring on my right hand.”

DiannaMaria

“I have already upgraded by getting an entirely new ring with larger stones, but I will always keep my original engagement ring, and I wear it on my left or right hand, depending on my mood.”

click [ Bone up on your budget know-how at TheNest .com ] spring 2014

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share your to-do lists

room-by-room spring cleaning checklist

use a sync-able smartphone app like Wunderlist

With spring around the corner, it’s time to get down and dirty. To make this epic list more manageable, divvy up the chores over a couple of weekends, then put down the broom and cheers to your clean house. kitchen

living room

T une up the garbage disposal.

Run sliced lemons and ice cubes through the disposal to clean and freshen it.

C lean curtains and drapes. Take washable curtains out of the dryer while still damp to help prevent wrinkles.

S anitize wastebaskets. Give the cans a good scrub and disinfect them after taking out the trash.

S weep and mop behind the fridge and stove. Don’t forget to vacuum up the dust that accumulates in the refrigerator condenser coils.

G ive upholstered furniture a deep cleaning. Vacuum thoroughly and spot treat any stains.

D eep clean wall-to-wall carpeting and area rugs if needed. Move area rugs and vacuum beneath them.

V acuum behind heavy furniture and other hard-to-reach places.

bedroom W ash all bedding, mattress pads, bed skirts and pillows.

V acuum and rotate mattress. Twice a year, flip it end-to-end too (unless you have a pillow-top mattress).

V acuum under the bed and behind furniture.

D ust all surfaces, including sides and bases of furniture.

C hange batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors throughout the house.

D eep clean the inside of the fridge and freezer. Toss any expired food or condiments.

D ust ceiling fans and the top surfaces of tall furniture.

C lean kitchen cabinets and drawers.

Wipe down interiors to clear away dust and crumbs, then clean cabinet fronts, knobs and drawer pulls.

D ust moldings, baseboards and window and door frames.

S wap winter and spring wardrobes.

Designate piles for dry cleaning, repair and donation.

C lean light fixtures and lamp shades.

C lean doorknobs and switch plates.

D ust or wipe down blinds.

oss expired dry goods in the pantry, T including spices. Whole ones are past their prime after three years; ground spices only last for about one year.

bathroom C lean vanity cabinets inside and out.

outside the house

T hrow away rarely used or expired toiletries.

C lean out the gutters and downspouts.

C lean the range hood and wash the metal filter—most can go right in the dishwasher.

D eep clean your tub and shower.

W ash windows inside and out.

C lean the oven. Use a plastic scraper to remove baked-on spills, then run the clean cycle.

R e-caulk the tub if needed.

T une up the lawn mower and sharpen any garden tools with dull blades.

W ash or replace your shower curtain and liner.

S weep and hose down the garage floor.

C lean the microwave, toaster oven and other small appliances.

D ust ceiling, vents and exhaust fan.

H ose down or pressure wash the deck or patio, and seal it if needed.

R un the empty dishwasher to clean out any residue.

C lean dirty grout and seal it to prevent new mildew stains.

C lean out and organize the medicine cabinet. Safely dispose of expired prescription drugs.

Pressure wash the siding if needed.

W ash and detail cars.

C lean outdoor furniture and cushions.

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