Black and White Ball

I recently learned Truman Capote's infamous Black and White Ball at the Plaza Hotel was based off the Ascot scene from My Fair Lady. I like the idea of entertaining with a theme based off something that inspires you whether it be a film, painting, song, etc. I would love to throw a party based off the Chocolate Room in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. This scene and movie provided endless hours of amusement for my sisters and me growing up. Or who wouldn't be thrilled to attend a James Bond party?

Link to Katherine Graham, the guest of honor, describing the party . . .
http://www.oprah.com/tows/pastshows/tows_past_20010722_f.jhtml

Occasion

I recently decided to start a blog on all things related to parties . . . because a blog about me would just be too dull. I'm hoping to share recipes, theme party ideas, invitation options, etc. I'm open to party ideas or suggestions.

For our All Red Valentine's Day party I made red velvet cupcakes. Cupcakes have always been one of my favorite desserts and are, as of late, all the rage in Los Angeles. It was my first time making red velvet cupcakes so I researched a bunch of recipes. I ended up using Emeril's Red Velvet cake recipe and Paula Deen's cream cheese frosting recipe. I did not use the recommended 2 ounces of red food coloring, which would be 8 small containers. I used around 3 containers and the cake tunred out red, but not as deep as other red velvet cakes. I was pleased with how they turned out.

http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/recipes/recipe/0,,FOOD_9936_36690,00.html?rsrc=search

http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/recipes/recipe/0,,FOOD_9936_36754,00.html?rsrc=search

For the cake:

2 1/2 cups sifted cake flour

2 teaspoons cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups sugar

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs

1 cup buttermilk

2 ounces red food coloring

1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cake: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Grease and flour 2 (9-inch) cake pans. In a medium bowl or on a piece of waxed paper, sift together flour, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt; set aside. In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter. Beat in eggs, 1 at a time. Alternately add flour mixture and buttermilk. Beat in food coloring and vinegar, then add vanilla. Spread the batter evenly in the pans.
Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Turn out onto a rack to cool.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1 pound cream cheese, softened

2 sticks butter, softened

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

4 cups sifted confectioners' sugar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter and vanilla together until smooth. Add the sugar and on low speed, beat until incorporated. Increase the speed to high and mix until very light and fluffy.

I have included a picture from the party that happened to be a "panty raid"/gift exchange with girlfriends to celebrate Valentine's.