Entertaining that is eco and socio-conscious as well as healthy  does not have to consist of brown invitations, brown napkins, brown bags, brown rice, and brown breads. It is possible to have a party which is green and glamorous–as well as multi-colored! And to be aware of what you are buying, using, doing and its impact on the environment and on others.

INVITATIONS AND DECORATIONS

Here are some wonderful ideas for your eco-conscious party.

• Electronic invites are not only easy, but very environmentally friendly
• Arranged centerpieces of fresh or dried fruit or vegetables (edible), as well as flowerpots and small trees (reusable), make wonderful spring and summer decorations. Send these gifts home with guests or deliver to a hospital or nursing home
• Create entirely edible centerpieces, using (takeout) chopsticks skewered with fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses
• Use decorative cloth napkins–or bandanas. Tie them with bamboo, hemp, or raffia
• Large leaves can become place cards when written on with non-toxic ink
• Collect wine corks to use as place card holders; slit and insert paint chips or cardboard with guest’s name.

FOOD AND DRINK

Look for foods which are organic (regulated by USDA), biodynamic (sustainable, self-contained system, where everything on the farm is re-used or recycled), and/or sustainable (sustains rather than degrades the environment, and is economically viable).

• If at all possible, THINK and BUY LOCALLY. Saves transportation costs, supports local economy, stays fresh longer, and tastes better. Local organic eggs and artisanal cheeses are widely available throughout the year
• For drinking, serve filtered ice water in pitchers rather than bottles; use organic teas and fair trade coffees; purchase local (if possible), organic wines and liquors. 50 states now produce their own wines. Look for beverages in recyclable glass bottles.

• Prepare the meal around one main dish, which incorporates various fresh vegetables and/or fruits, such as gazpacho with various toppings.
• Prevent waste by purchasing and preparing food in appropriate quantities.
• Offer at least one dish for vegetarians, which is free of animal fats/products.
• Barbecue with grass-fed beef and sustainable seafood for better taste as well as greener event

PARTY FAVORS

For a final eco-chic touch, send guests home with seed packets, bulbs, small potted plants or their own bandanas, soybean or beeswax candles. Homemade cookies, jams, small breads, vinegars, and pickles all lend a nice homey touch.

FUN IDEAS AND TIPS

• Combine your party with a Spring Clean-up event for your neighborhood, local park, school or playground, nearby empty or parking lots, or with an exchange or tag sale to help your guests with their spring house and garage cleaning
• Organize a salt or honey tasting ,which also educates guests about the various ecological and taste choices available
• For a really special event, purchase and release butterflies indigenous to your area and beneficial to the environment
• Live music will save electricity, and using your iPod will provide music without lots of gear
• Use beeswax or soy candles and organic soaps in powder room/guest bathroom

• Have your event during daylight hours to conserve power
• For green chic, try recycled cardboard made into everything from vases and bowls to tables and room dividers. Objects made by Liquid cardboard(tm) are 100% recycled and recyclable–even the glue is vegetable. This coffee table is from Chairigami, 100% cardboard, and only $85!

                             DON’T FORGET THAT EARTH DAY 2012 IS SUNDAY, APRIL 22!

Listen to Dawn Bryan discussing the many beauty and health benefits to CHOCOLATE, on INSIDE WITH VALERIE PERSAUD.

Thursday, January 19th, Dawn is featured on Conversation Crossroads on how to select your dragon.

Wales and Winged Dragon

IN HONOR OF CHINESE NEW YEAR, JANUARY 23, 2012 QUALIPEDIA FOUNDER (AND DRAGON EXPERT) DAWN BRYAN OFFERS TOP TIPS ON HOW TO SELECT YOUR DRAGON

January 23^rd marks Chinese New Year, the year of the dragon.  Qualipedia founder and dragon expert, Dawn Bryan, offers top tips for imagining, selecting, and caring for your dragon.

Since ancient times, Dragons have been featured in many myths and legends, and have held major spiritual significance in various cultures and religions worldwide. Long associated with wisdom, universality, longevity, and a thirst for knowledge, dragons also possess certain supernatural powers.

 “Anyone who is imaginative, creative, independent, spiritual, fabulous, and a seeker of knowledge can create and have his or her own dragon,” says Dawn Bryan, founder of www.thequalipedia.com, a consumer information and lifestyle website.  “But remember that all dragons are different.”

SELECT BY HERITAGE AND HISTORY: The best way to start is to envision your personal dragon by learning about the traits associated with various cultures.  Many dragon keepers (one cannot own a dragon) prefer to select dragons by heritage, while others enjoy the more exotic dragons.

Your dragon could be of almost any ancestry or folklore.  Here are just a few possibilities you may wish to explore: Greek dragons (like the three-headed dragon in the Iliad); European (live in a lair or cave and usually have wings); Chinese (the highest ranking animal in the Chinese animal hierarchy consists of nine different dragons, all associated with power and majesty; Japanese (wingless water deities with three claws)’ or Slavic (with multiple heads which grow back after being cut off). Choose also from Mexican, Jewish, Vietnamese, and Scandinavian dragons.

CHARACTERISTICS: Dragons are frequently categorized into the five major elemental types: metal, water, fire, wood, and earth.  Although there are many breeds and cross-breeds of dragons, the classic dragon physiology is made up of many different types of animals: the body of a snake, head of a camel, scales of a fish, eyes of a rabbit, paws like a tiger, and claws like an eagle. However, one can choose from a variety of physical features and special powers, such as wings of leather or feather, horns; multiple heads; no front legs (wyverns); scales and/or feathers; 3, 4, or 5 toes on each foot; blunt or sharp-ended tails; frills; scales in triangular, oval or tear-drop shapes; scales which can stand on end for looking larger to foes and for easier cleaning.

Dragons exhibit amazing abilities and powers: the ability to become invisible, change color, hoard treasure, form clouds with their breath, make the sounds of beating gongs and jingling bells, fly, swim, stretch out their skin like a kite, use their breath of fire, ice, lightning, or acid as a weapon, see well in the dark, replace their scales as they grow, speak (dragons are said to have taught humans to speak), make thunderous sounds, and change shape.  Dragon powers are vast: the power to protect nations, wreak havoc, bring fertility and prosperity, guard maidens, live for at least 1200 years or become immortal, represent the wild magic of nature, bring rain, destroy the world that it created, be male, female or both, hold the world in its mouth, under chin or in its claws (usually represented by a pearl), control rivers, guard metals and gems, and heal anything with its blood.

SELECT BY COLOR: Dragons come in an amazing array of colors: blue, green white, black, red, yellow, crystal and white. There are also the rarer gold, silver, bronze and topaz varieties. Each color, however, is not a single tone, but many shades of the same color, giving depth, beauty and sheen to each creature.  Black dragons are typically found in marshes, swamps or subterranean lairs; the Red Dragon, often depicted as evil, breathes fire, and the White Dragon uses frost as its breath weapon.

HOW TO LIVE COMFORTABLY WITH YOUR DRAGON

Dragons are independent, powerful, and elegant. Centuries of responsibility combined with being misunderstood have taken their toll, and, on occasion, your dragon is likely to need some special attention and recognition.  All dragons love scale soothing (petting), and most appreciate your enhancing their fire-breathing activities occasionally with some hot, spicy foods.

As a good portion of a typical dragon’s day is spent gathering knowledge; they enjoy communicating with their keepers.  And they readily reward those who impart new knowledge with tokens of gratitude from their own treasure hoards. Totally unconcerned with time and its constraints as we experience it, dragons of all ages will need frequent reminders that they are late, taking too long, or seemingly forgetting to do something.

To purchase a smaller, less powerful, more demanding, non-mythical dragon, consider the Chinese Water Dragons (2-3 feet in length), or the Komodo Dragon (8-10 feet in length).

“Dragons have the same five senses as humans, as well as a well-developed, accurate sixth sense, which enables them to quickly “read” the emotions of others,” said Dawn Bryan.  “Their basic five senses are much more powerful and sensitive than ours, which enables them to be totally self-sufficient.  Dragons find their own food, according to their various needs, and reside in their own comfortable abodes.  Whatever type of Dragon you choose, you will love keeping this wonderful and unique companion, and each day will surely be a blessing and a challenge.”

For more information on dragons, or to email Quincy — our in-house dragon –personally, log on to www.thequalipedia.com.

WHAT IS IT?

All crystal is glass, but all glass is definitely not crystal.

Crystal is mouth-blown glass that contains lead oxide. When added to molten glass, it adds weight and gives a much higher index of refraction than normal glass, greatly increasing sparkle and brilliance and creating a prism effect. It can be cut and faceted into intricate patterns.

There are several processes/techniques which are used to enhance crystal. These include etching and frosting; engraving; glazing and gilding. Colored glass is usually created from the fusing of two layers of glass, one clear and one colored. The cutter cuts onto the colored glass to reveal the clear glass. The color comes from the addition of metal oxides, i.e. real gold results in ruby; cobalt in blue; and iron oxide in green.

Terms generally used:

• Full Lead Crystal: Glass containing at least 24% lead oxide can be called “full lead crystal”; however, many well-known brands contain higher levels into the 30%’s.
• Lead Crystal: Glass containing 10-24% lead oxide.
• Crystalline: glass containing 6-10% lead oxide. However, American standards permit clear glass containing any amount of lead to be considered “crystal”.

CHOOSING CRYSTAL

Crystal is a product that really requires personal perusal–at least at first. Once you have done your homework, reviewed and handled a variety of crystal, online purchasing is a viable option. But no Internet picture is going to allow you to see or feel differences in light refraction, color, quality of edges, balance and weighting. Information regarding lead content is often absent from websites that sell crystal, so it is wise to call the manufacturer or retailer about the specific item to determine whether it is full lead crystal. You may also wish to inquire as to whether the crystal product is hand-crafted or machine made. Many manufacturers make handcrafted crystalline, crystal and full-lead crystal, but also their lead-free, machine-made cousins, so one should not make assumptions based on only the name of the manufacturer.

High quality crystal will display the following qualities:

*Sparkle, clarity and translucency

*Smooth, precise, polished cuts and edges

*Uniform shape and thin walls

*No seams, as this indicates pressed glass that was molded, not mouth-blown

*Slight or few variations, such as bubbles, cords (small lines), chill and flow marks (surface indentations).

*A crisp, clear high-pitched ring when you tap the rim. Lower-pitched or muted sounds indicate lesser quality.

CARING FOR CRYSTAL

*Temper your crystal–get it gradually used to temperature changes–when adding hot or iced drinks. Never put boiling water into crystal, or put it in the freezer.

*Since crystal easily absorbs stains and odors, rinse glasses soon after use. As for vases and carafes, don’t leave flowers or wine in them for long, as they can become permanently stained.

*Use warm soapy water (no abrasives) to wash crystal (one at a time to avoid breakage), with a rubber mat or towel cushioning bottom of sink. Dry with a lint-free towel.

*Keep items away from dust, as it can act as an abrasive.

*Store glasses right side up to ensure the rims don’t chip–or put your crystal in a stemware rack.

* For water spots, sub on lemon juice or vinegar; for hard-to-clean stains or residue, use denture-cleaning table or mix uncooked rice with lemon juice or vinegar and swish it around; use ammonia, but never on metal rims or decoration.

CRYSTAL WARNINGS

For the most part the lead contained in lead crystal is not dangerous. However, since heavy metals accumulate in the body and can cause serious harm, consumers may want to follow some guidelines to reduce the danger that lead crystal can present. The FDA recommends that people rethink the way they use lead crystal for food and beverages.

–Soak your new crystal in vinegar for 24 hours, then rinse thoroughly.

–Use a mild soap, as abrasives can make lead leaching more likely.

–Do not store food or beverages for long periods in crystal. This is particularly important for juices, vinegar and alcoholic beverages.

–Do not pour wine/alcohol into guests’ glasses until time for drinking.

–Pregnant women should avoid using crystal.

ABC NEWS, December 2011: Affordable Last Minute Gifts

Since President Franklin Pierce had the first White House Christmas Tree in the 1850’s American families have faced the task of choosing a tree that fits their lifestyle, demonstrates their passion for Christmas and is practical and economical.

 Everyone has an opinion about the family Christmas tree–must it be live, cut or artificial? And what size–is bigger always better?

What about the shape, the color, the needle length, the branch strength and spacing, the needle-holding ability–and even the fragrance? We can always cut our own trees, but most of us purchase them from the nearest local seller.

Dawn Bryan, author of the best-selling “The Art and Etiquette of Gift Giving,” and founder of Qualipedia (www.thequalipedia.com), a consumer information and lifestyle website, offers the following tips to help shoppers choose the tree that is right for them.

Before making any decision, keep in mind where your tree will be displayed and know the measurements of the area before you purchase.

Trying to balance our love of tradition with practicality and current lifestyle, we can easily make the wrong decision. Ask yourself:

Are you the traditionalist who loves to make the season come alive while stringing lights and breathing in the fresh fragrance of your pine?  Do you not have the space to store an artificial tree during the year? 

If so, select a cut tree with good green color, needle resiliency, and pleasing fragrance.

How to Select a Live or Cut Tree:

• Check condition of the needles by bending the needle gently between your thumb and forefinger. The fresh needle should bend easily, not break
• Pull your hand toward you along the branch. Needles should adhere to the branch and not fall off in your hand.
• If a cut tree, lift the tree a few inches off the ground, then drop it on stump end. If outside needles fall off in abundance, it is probably not fresh. If old needles, which have been lodged among the branches from prior shedding fallout, this is not a sign of a dry tree. 

How to Care For:

• Living Trees: Store before decorating in unheated, sheltered area out of sun and wind; While inside, keep soil damp; limit inside stay to 7 to 10 days; when moving to the outdoors, do not immediately change temperatures from warm house to freezing cold; when planting, mulch heavily over the top of the planted root ball to prevent freezing and water only when needed.

• Cut Trees: Cut a half-inch off the base of the trunk before immediately placing it into water; do not whittle down the sides of the trunk, as the tree drinks mostly from the edges of its trunk base; trees may drink as much as a gallon of water in the first 24 hours and one or more quarts a day thereafter; keep tree away from sun, fireplace and other heat sources; and unplug lights at night unless you are expecting Santa. To recycle, check the recycling link on your community’s website.
• Real Christmas trees are a renewable, recyclable resource, often grown on soil that doesn’t support other crops.

Are you time-compromised, afraid to climb ladders, not interested in needle clean-up and tree maintenance, or evergreen allergic? 

If so, select an artificial tree that imitates your favorite variety or is in your favorite color. Many are pre-lit and some come with ornaments, berries, pine cones, flocking, frosting and fiber optics already in place.

How to Select an Artificial Tree:

• If you are looking for the most realistic looking artificial tree, purchase one with PE needles (rather than PVC), a center pole, and individual stick branch attachments.
• If your primary concern is buying tree that is easy to assemble, choose one with PE needles, a center pole, hinged branch attachments and pre-strung lights.
• Artificial trees come in a myriad of varieties, heights and shapes to fit into your space and decorating style. 
• “Tip count” can be used as an advertising ploy, and usually makes little difference to the overall appearance, mattering much less than needle quality.
• For quality, look at the branch ends: well-crafted trees use heavier gauge metal and have sculpted, not snipped-off, ends.
• Lights: Look for three-year or 3,000 hour warranty,  80-100 lights per square foot,  twist-proof sockets, the ability for the entire string to stay lit, even if a single bulb burns out, is broken or removed; and have 8-10 inches between lights.

How to Care For an Artificial Tree:

• With proper care, an artificial tree will last 6-7 years, making it an economical choice.
• Wear gloves and a long-sleeved shirt when putting up your tree.
• Store the tree in a carrying case, NOT a cardboard box. The latter will get damp and/or disintegrate and cause dust to inundate your tree, and critters like to chew through boxes to makes warm homes in artificial trees.
• Concerns:
• Artificial trees off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs,) as they are made of PVC and/or PE and many contain lead, which makes the PVC more malleable. These trees are known to shed lead-laced dust.
• Artificial trees often are treated with a fire retardant which off-gasses.
• Artificial trees cannot be recycled. It is possible to donate a gently used tree to a local thrift store. If the tree is unfit for use, it must be taken to a landfill.

-Lifestyle Expert and Best-Selling Author Dawn Bryan Offers Ten Tips for Those Hosting Friends and Family This Holiday Season-

NEW YORK, NY, November 28 – Whether the Holiday is Thanksgiving, Chanukah, Christmas Eve, Kwanza, or the New Year, these occasions are meant to be shared with an abundance of good food and drink, good conversation, and good cheer.  And the thoughtful host will know how to provide a welcoming atmosphere of warmth and conviviality.

Dawn Bryan, author of the best selling “The Art and Etiquette of Gift Giving,” Celebrity protocol and etiquette expert and founder of Qualipedia, a consumer information and lifestyle website, offers the following tips will help you to put that personal signature on your own entertaining :

1. Plan with Personal Style: Plan a party that you would enjoy attending yourself and once it starts make sure to be a guest at your own party!

2. Don’t Over Extend Yourself: Make sure you do not over-stretch, over-reach, or under-estimate the time and resources required, especially at holiday time when both are at a minimum. Make lists and notes, which will compel you to be realistic about your time and money.

3. Be Creative: If you don’t have the space or facilities to prepare and serve an entire meal, be creative with a dessert party, an after-the-caroling reception, or a honey, salt or wine tasting.  Then make it your signature annual event!

4. A Versatile Menu: If you have little help with serving, select a versatile menu that can be served either hot or cold, minimizing your need to run back and forth to the kitchen.

5. You Don’t Need to be a Great Cook to Give a Great Party.  Choose your menu from take-out foods, platters or casseroles from local restaurants, prepared food from your grocery store, food specialty store, deli, catalog or on-line. Or combine packaged and prepared foods with fresh fruits or vegetables. Your finishing touches will make it your creation, for example, placing the food into hollowed-out breads or vegetables; arranging onto antique serving platters or trays; setting the bowl in middle of a holiday wreath; garnishing dishes with foliage from your yard.

6. Organize Food and Drink Stations: Place food and drink (except maybe for nuts and nibbles) in separate locations. This helps with “crowd control” and diminishes the likelihood of spilling drinks and dropping plates. 

7. Expecting Children? Prepare for them with their own play and eating area, activities, and easy-to-eat foods and contained drinks.

8. Greet Your Guests: Your or another family member should make every effort to make guests feel welcome as soon as they arrive. For a guest to find no one at the door, then have to figure out where to put coats and boots, then finally wander into the kitchen to discover that the host’s head is in the oven  is not very welcoming.

9. Don’t Micro-Manage. Relax. After guests arrive, allow things to flow. But do be sure that arrivals who may not know your other guests are properly introduced. Prior to their arrival, you can ask a friend to “look out” for them.

10. Select Music: to complement, not dominate, the party. It should be compatible with your guests” tastes, non-repetitious, and should be louder at the beginning of the party when there are fewer guests and you want people to converse, than later on when people may be forced to raise their voices to be heard in conversation.

Dawn’s bonus tip is to always send guests home with a small goody bag: Christmas stocking, bagels or donuts for breakfast, a magazine, a holiday poem, a 2012 calendar, small bags of your special fudge or macaroons, a tree ornament.