Mint Juleps & The Kentucky Derby

Posted March 28 2017 in Barware Drinkware Lifestyle Mint Julep Cups Traditions
Tagged:cocktail, derby, kentucky derby, Mint Julep, Mint Julep Cup, the derby

The Mint Julep:  Born In The South, Thriving At The Derby

Mint Julep

Since 1938, the mint julep has been the official drink of the Kentucky Derby, and it’s hard to imagine a cocktail more

quintessentially Southern. A combination of sugar, bourbon, crushed ice and mint, this refreshing drink conjures up images of a bygone genteel era. There are over 120,000 of these drinks served at the race each year, and even people at home get in the spirit of the event by mixing their own.

What you may not know, however, is that the history of the mint julep stretches far beyond the Derby, and the drink we all know and love has changed quite a lot over the years.

Early History of the Mint Julep

The mint julep has a history steeped in legend, with multiple origin stories told and believed throughout the region. Some fanciful tales suggest that the drink was developed when a Kentuckian, boating across the Mississippi, plucked fresh mint leaves growing wild on the banks and topped his bourbon with them.
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The History of The Moscow Mule

Posted March 7 2017 in Barware Cocktails Drinkware Lifestyle Traditions
Tagged:mixed drinks, moscow mule, specialty drinks

A Deeper Look At The Moscow Mule

If you enjoy drinks that stand out from the crowd in a powerful and eloquent way, you are probably wondering what you should try so that you can find your next favorite. Many drinks and recipes exist, and a lot of them have not been published, but when it comes to flavor, people from around the world agree that the Moscow Mule is in a class of its own.

Fans usually fall in love at the first sip, and you will likely feel the same way when you experience it for the first time. We are going to explore the history of this great drink, and you will likely be surprised by what you will discover.

Ingredients

Before we go into detail, you will want to learn about the ingredients that bartenders use to craft the Moscow Mule. Even though a lot of people have tried to replicate the drink, doing so is not always an easy task for those who are not experts.

Once your place the order, the bartender will mix vodka and ginger beer together, stirring gently to create the right consistency. He will then pour the mixture over ice, and to add extra flavor and a touch of style, the bartender will place a lemon on the side of the copper mug.

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Baguette Flatware: From Colonial Williamsburg to the Bistros of France

Posted February 22 2017 in Dining Dinnerware Flatware Reviews Lifestyle Traditions
Tagged:baguette flatware, baguette silverware, baguette style, stainless flatware

Baguette Flatware: From Colonial Williamsburg to the Bistros of France

Baguette flatware is a simple yet elegant style silverware that you can use casually or in a formal setting. It is characterized by the teardrop shaped handle and a long ridge running down the middle. This contemporary style flatware dates back more than a century in Europe and back to colonial times in America. It is currently used in fine bistros throughout France. Due to its huge popularity, there are many manufactures that make Baguette silverware. They are most commonly made in a continental or European size and medium to heavy in weight.

At Silver Superstore, we offer a variety of options of Baguette flatware for any budget. Here are our most popular patterns. Prices listed are for a service for 12 people.

Budget Friendly:

Bastille by D&V

Fortessa’s D&V line of flatware is an excellent choice for those looking for good quality at an affordable price! In addition, they have a few extra pieces to complete your set that you won’t find in many other lines of silverware. The Bastille pattern has appetizer/cake forks, bouillon spoons, butter knives, dessert knives,  and espresso spoons! This pattern is high quality 18/10 stainless steel and sure to spruce up your dining table.

Weight:  (279 grams per place setting)

Blaine by Wallace

Blaine silverware is crafted of quality 18/10 grade stainless flatware. It is made for everyday use and is therefore dishwasher safe. Its traditional colonial design features a ridge down the middle of the handles, with the exception of the knife. For entertaining and ease in the kitchen, basic serving pieces are available in this pattern.

Weight:  (334 grams per place setting)

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Silver Father’s Day Gifts To Show Dad Your Appreciation

Posted February 10 2017 in Lifestyle Traditions
Tagged:fathers day gifts, gifts for dad, gifts for him

A father’s love is precious, which is why it deserves to be commemorated with the very best. While you look for Father’s Day gifts this year, maybe it is time to tell your dad in the purest terms just how much he means to you. To honor your dad, buy a gift with meaning, consider something crafted in the finest silver with a personalized engraving. Get some ideas for your dad this Father’s Day from the list below.

Danforth Tankard

Tankard

This tankard is not only an excellent way to enjoy a drink, but it is also an attractive show piece. The pewter exterior can come in different finishes, allowing you to pick smooth satin or bold brightness. This hearty tankard is also available in two sizes. For a more modest choice, the 5 ounce variation might be perfect for your dad. If your father has a more vigorous appetite, you could spring for the impressive 16 ounce size. This tankard is hand-crafted, making it wonderfully personalized for Father’s Day. As an added bonus, have the tankard engraved with your father’s name or nickname.

Classic Channel Frame

A picture frame is an ideal memento since it can be easily customized with family pictures. This silver-plated frame is especially perfect for your dad. The silver on the frame gleams, and the clean lines are very modern and masculine. You can choose from one of three sizes, allowing you to pick a frame to match your favorite photo and your budget. To make the gift even more special, include a note of remembrance. The wide silver edge on this frame is perfect for customization, giving you ample space to include inside jokes, the date or the names of your father’s children.

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Cocktails For Mardi Gras

Posted February 10 2017 in Barware Cocktails Drinkware Lifestyle Mint Julep Cups Traditions
Tagged:Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras, Mint Julep Cup

Six Cocktails For Mardi Gras

If you will not make it to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, you can still have an enjoyable time at home. Mardi Gras is one of the biggest parties of the year. In French, Mardi Gras means “Fat Tuesday.” It is a time when people indulge in rich foods and libations before the Lenten season, which is filled with forty days of fasting. Here are six dynamite cocktails that will help you kick off a great celebration.

Cucumber Hurricane

Classic Mardi Gras colors are purple, green, and yellow. This is why a Cucumber Hurricane is an ideal drink to celebrate this special occasion. A Hurricane is a rum-based blend that will kick your party into high gear. Adding some lime flavoring brings a refreshing twist. To create this cocktail, mix ice, vodka, triple sec, and lime juice. Garnish the cup with cucumber slices as well.

Mint Julep

Although a mint julep is commonly served at the Kentucky Derby, it is a great drink to celebrate Mardi Gras. It is a traditional summer cocktail that will bring a cooling sensation to your party. A conventional mint julep requires bourbon, sugar, water, crushed ice, and sprigs of mint. Even though this beverage can be served in a highball glass or plastic cup, a true drinking connoisseur will want to enjoy this cocktail in a silver tumbler.

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The perfect Valentine’s Day Gifts

Posted February 1 2017 in Engraving Lifestyle Traditions
Tagged:gifts for her, gifts for him, love, valentines day, valentines day gifts

Chocolates and roses are some of the most traditional things to buy your loved ones during this romantic holiday, but both are perishable. Is your love perishable? We had hoped not. This Valentine’s Day give the special one in your life something that will last for years and show them you are thinking long-term.

We have gifts for both men and women that will make this year a little more memorable.  Speaking of memories, put a picture of that special moment or someone in a beautiful silver frame that can also be engraved for a personalized touch! We have many options to choose from and they make a great Valentine’s Day gift for either him or her.

Cunill Pearls Picture Frame

Picture Frames

The Cunill Pearls picture frame has an elegant beaded border along both the inner and outer portions of the frame. This frame is a great choice whether you’re having it personalized or not. There is ample room to engrave a date, anniversary, name, or even an endearing message for your beloved.

We have lots of other picture frames to choose from in sterling silver, silverplate, and frames for kids too!

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Silver Christening Gift Ideas

Posted January 9 2017 in Lifestyle Traditions
Tagged:Baby's First, Christening

Christening Gifts That Will Be Cherished for a Lifetime

Of all the opportunities to welcome someone into the family, our warmest, most heart-felt sentiments belong to our tiniest additions. No one can match the pride and excitement felt by new parents, but we all look forward to celebrating and sharing their happiness. This very special occasion calls for a special gift.

You want to give a unique present destined to be cherished for a lifetime. Even a traditional selection can be made into a personal showing of how much you care. The perfect christening gift is always given with love, so wrap your affection around these beautiful baby present ideas.

The Classic Silver Cup

Very few baby christening presents are as timeless as the classic silver baby cup. It’s simple and simply a must-have in every little one’s collection of sweet things. It’s elegant and a lovely addition to nursery shelf decor. Choose a tiny silver chalice with floral borders for the littlest lady, or present the youngest man with a classically designed cup. Please everyone with teddy bear motifs, double handles or gold inlays. Make your gift even more memorable by personalizing it with an engraved name, monogram or message.

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Flower Arrangement Tips For Your Next Table

Posted January 9 2017 in Lifestyle Traditions Uncategorized

Finding the Perfect Flowers for Your Table Arrangement

Floral table arrangements add a touch of elegance to dinner parties, holiday gatherings and other special events. Creating your own arrangements saves money and allows you to get creative color. You don’t have to be a pro to put together beautiful collections of flowers. A little planning is all it takes to get everything just right.

Consider the Season

The best flowers for any party are those currently in bloom. Instead of driving yourself crazy trying to find “exotic” flowers to grace your tables, look for seasonal flowers the same way you shop for seasonal produce. Some of the most popular flowers by season are:

• Spring: anemones, apple blossoms, daffodils, hyacinths, lilacs, peonies, sweet pea, tulips and ranunculus
• Summer: alliums, chrysanthemums, forget-me-nots, foxglove, freesias, gardenias, hydrangeas, lavender, lilies and snapdragons
• Fall: aster, baby’s breath, dahlias, marigolds, orchids, Queen Ann’s lace, roses, sunflowers and zinnias
• Winter: amaryllis, carnations, holly, jasmine, poinsettias, star of Bethlehem, star gazer lilies and pansies

Keep in mind some seasonal flowers have very heavy scents. Stick with lightly scented or scent-free flowers to accommodate guests with allergies and sensitivities. Tulips, roses, lilies and ranunculus are all good choices.

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2016 CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS!

Posted May 31 2016 in Ornaments Traditions
Tagged:2016, 2016 Christmas Ornaments, candy cane, Christmas Decorations, Christmas Tree decorations, Sleigh Bell, snowflake, Wallace

Christmas Ornaments

Christmas Ornaments have long been a beautiful holiday tradition often spanning multiple generations. Some families collect Candy Canes and some Snowflakes. We offer a wide variety of ornaments so weather you are looking for this years version of your collection or to start a new tradition, we have you covered. Here are a few of the hottest selling and most delightful up and coming ornaments we carry!

2016 Wallace Sleigh Bell

The 2016 Wallace Sleigh Bell

The 2016 Wallace Silverplate Sleigh Bell Christmas ornament is the 46th Edition. This year the bell features a design of shooting stars around the bell which is embossed with the year 2016. The Wallace Sleigh Bell is one of the best-selling collectible silver Christmas tree ornaments and makes a perfect personalized Christmas decoration.

Handcrafted in fine silverplate, this silver bell Christmas decoration measures 2-3/4 inch tall by 2-1/2 inch wide. There is a nice gift box included with one red ribbon and one white ribbon for hanging and it is made in the USA. It also includes a nice soft pouch for safekeeping.

2016 Gorham Snowflake

The 2016 Gorham Snowflake

This heirloom quality Gorham sterling silver 2016 Snowflake Christmas ornament will be a elegant addition to your home and christmas décor. The snowflake comes with a red ribbon that will add a beautiful touch of joy to a holiday package, tree or mantel. This is the 47th Edition of the treasured annual collectible.

The Gorham Snowflake ornament measures approximately 3-3/4 inches high by 3 inches wide. This snowflake is one of our best-selling ornaments across all silver manufacturers.

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COPPERWARE

Posted March 24 2016 in Barware Drinkware Mint Julep Cups
Tagged:Copper, copperware, jigger, Mint Julep, moscow mule

Copper Mugs, Barware and Home Decor

Copperware is a commonly found in the home – cups, bowls, decorations, etc. It has increased in popularity over the years. Any one of these copper items makes a great personalized gift when engraved. Make this special occasion one to remember with an engraved copper mug!