Paddington 2 Screening And Afternoon Tea With Hugh Grant And Hugh Bonneville

 

Start 2018 with the kindest fuzziest bear ever…

Paddington 2 hits theaters January 12th!

Our beloved bear is back on the big screen and embarking on a new adventure! In celebration of the new film, my family headed to The London West Hollywood in Beverly Hills for a Paddington themed tea party. Actors Hugh Grant and Hugh Bonneville were in attendance. 

I have fond memories of Paddington’s escapades during my childhood, and I could not help but to feel a little nostalgic while screening this adorable sequel.

Thank you Warner Bros. Pictures for inviting my family to the Paddington 2 screening and tea party. All opinions are my own. 

paddington-hugh-grant
Photo credit to KellyClare

Synopsis

In Paddington 2, our favorit bear is happily residing with the Brown family in Windsor Gardens. He has become a popular member in his community by spreading love, joy, and delicious marmalade wherever he goes! While searching for the perfect present for his Aunt Lucy’s hundredth birthday, he spots a mysterious pop-up book in Mr. Gruber’s antique shop. He then embarks on an adventure, and a series of odd jobs to save up the money buy the gift. But when the unique book goes missing, it’s up to Paddington and the Brown family to find and unmask the thief.

paddington-books
Photo credit to KellyClare

Reuniting many of the original film’s cast while welcoming those in new roles, “Paddington 2” stars Golden Globe nominee Hugh Bonneville (“Downton Abbey”), Oscar nominee Sally Hawkins (“Blue Jasmine”), three-time Golden Globe nominee Brendan Gleeson (“The Guard,” “Into the Storm,” “In Bruges”), Oscar nominee Julie Walters (“Billy Elliot,” “Educating Rita”), Oscar winner Jim Broadbent (“Iris”), and Oscar winner Peter Capaldi (short, “Franz Kafka’s It’s a Wonderful Life”), with Golden Globe and BAFTA Award winner Hugh Grant (“Four Weddings and a Funeral”), and BAFTA winner Ben Whishaw (“The Hollow Crown”) as the voice of Paddington.  The starring ensemble also includes Madeleine Harris, Samuel Joslin, and Oscar nominee Imelda Staunton (“Vera Drake”) as the voice of Aunt Lucy.

paddington-decorations
Photo credit to KellyClare

In this new film, Paddington befriends some shady outsiders, even fellow inmates in the Portobello Prison. He reminds moviegoers that even those without Paddington’s good manners, can have great kindness in their hearts.

Paddington says multiple times throughout the sequel,”If we’re kind and polite, the world will be right.” His charm and optimism is endearing.

This new film has a great story line, delightful characters, and many laugh out loud moments. It is truly heartwarming and has a great message for all. My son said his favorite part is when Paddington makes marmalade with his rough inmate friend, Knuckles McGinty (Brendan Gleeson)

paddington-tea-party
Photo credit to KellyClare

Paddington 2 is a great feel good movie and one that everyone will enjoy. Be sure to stay for the credits and enjoy a surprise!

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The tea room was decorated with bright Paddington colors, and the children were all proper in there adorable dresses and suits. 

My inner child jumped for joy as we entered the magical tea room…

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Tea was served and accompanied by tasty delicate savouries. 

paddington-cookies
Photo credit to KellyClare

My teen daughter even joined in the fun, and she was all smiles as she decorated her Paddington cookie.

paddington-cookies
Photo credit to KellyClare

There were many delightful details and delicious treats.

paddington-party
Photo credit to KellyClare

Paddington makes the world a brighter place! The tea party was memorable and my family had a fabulous time.

paddington-bear
Photo credit to KellyClare

This new sequel is funny, entertaining, and great for the entire family…

Watch it in theaters January 12th!

Rated PG: PG for some action and mild rude humor

Runtime: 105 minutes

Disney LIVE! Mickey and Minnie’s Doorway to Magic Opens In Long Beach January 18th

 

disney-live

If you are a Disney fan, you don’t want to miss this sensational show!

Disney LIVE! Mickey and Minnie’s Doorway to Magic opens Thursday January 18th…

Disney Live! Mickey and Minnie’s Doorway to Magic will visit Long Beach Terrace Theatre & Citizens Business Bank Arena, Ontario from January 18-January 21st. Check the list of show dates and times below!

disney-live

Join Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and the comical duo of Donald and Goofy as 25 of your favorite characters surprise and captivate at every turn of the knob! See the Fairy Godmother transform Cinderella’s rags into a beautiful ball gown in a split second; the Toy Story gang defy the dimensions of Andy’s toy box with the help of the green army men; and the spectacular stage debut of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider as they rise into the sky amidst the floating lanterns. With special appearances by Snow White, Tinker Bell and Aladdin’s Genie, you never know what to expect or who might join in the fun. In Disney Live! Mickey and Minnie’s Doorway to Magic, you hold the ultimate key to unlocking your imagination…

disney-live

Show Dates & Times

Long Beach 

When: Thursday, January 18 – Friday, January 19

Thursday, January 18 6:30 PM

Friday, January 19 1:00 PM & 6:30 PM

Where: Long Beach Terrace Theatre – 300 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802

Tickets: Ticket prices start at $20 Tickets available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745- 3000 or in-person at the venue Box Office. *prices subject to change; additional venue/ticketing fees may apply

Ontario

When: Saturday, January 20 – Sunday, January 21

Saturday, January 20 1:00 PM & 4:00 PM

Sunday, January 21 1:00 PM & 4:00 PM

Where: Citizens Business Bank Arena – 4000 Ontario Center Parkway, Ontario, CA 91764

Tickets: Ticket prices start at $20 Tickets available for purchase online at DisneyLive.com or Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 or in-person at the venue Box Office. *prices subject to change; additional venue/ticketing fees may apply

To learn more about Disney Live!, go to www.DisneyLive.com

MONSTER JAM Opens At The Angel Stadium Of Anaheim January 13th

MONSTER JAM opens next week at the Angel Stadium of Anaheim January 13th… Are you ready?

Check out the list of upcoming show dates and times below!

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Monster Jam trucks are ready to roar full throttle back into Angel Stadium of Anaheim with a newly added 5th weekend event – marking the first-ever Sunday event for Southern California fans! Now the most adrenaline-charged motorsports experience for families on the planet returns to Anaheim in 2018 with more action and bigger trucks than ever before ready to battle it out in the ultimate event of speed, racing, stunts and demolition for another season of high-octane weekend events between January 13 – February 25, 2018.

Than you Monster Jam for inviting my family to the show. All opinions are my own…

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Unexpected, unscripted and unforgettable, Monster Jam takes center stage in the world’s most iconic venues, sporting meticulously manicured dirt tracks created with the sole purpose of pushing these perfectly engineered, larger-than-life trucks to the limit. Monster Jam is one of the only sports where male and female world-class drivers, some generational rivals, are equals competing for the same championship on the same track. New in 2018 across all Monster Jam events, fans in every city will have the chance to vote for the truck winner in the donut, wheelie and freestyle competitions by real-time, in-arena fan voting on their smartphones.

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In addition to the world-class racing and freestyle competition action, fans can come to the stadium early to enjoy the Monster Jam Pit Party pre-show experience – which gives fans unparalleled access to view their favorite trucks up-close and meet the star drivers for autographs & photos. New for 2018, Monster Jam has introduced the limited quantity Pit Party Early Access Pass that provides fans early entry into the Pit Party one hour before open to the general public (at Saturday events only).

Show Dates & Times

 Saturday, January 13, 2018

Pit Party open from 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM (Event ticket & Pit Pass required for entry. Drivers leave Pit Party at 5:00 PM)

Event Time – 6:30 PM

Saturday, January 27, 2018

Pit Party open from 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM (Event ticket & Pit Pass required for entry. Drivers leave Pit Party at 5:00 PM)

Event Time – 6:30 PM

Saturday, February 10, 2018

Pit Party open from 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM (Event ticket & Pit Pass required for entry. Drivers leave Pit Party at 5:00 PM)

Event Time – 6:30 PM

Saturday, February 24, 2018

Pit Party open from 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM (Event ticket & Pit Pass required for entry. Drivers leave Pit Party at 5:00 PM)

Event Time – 6:30 PM

Sunday, February 25, 2018

Pit Party open from 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM (Event ticket & Pit Pass required for entry. Drivers leave Pit Party at 1:00 PM) Event Time – 3:00 PM

WHERE: Angel Stadium of Anaheim – 2000 Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, CA 92806

PIT PARTY: Open from 2:30 PM–5:30 PM prior to each Saturday event; 11:30 AM–1:30 PM on Sunday Feb. 25

Exclusive Pit Party Early Access Pass entrance at 1:30 PM (Saturday events only)

**Event ticket and Pit Passes are required for entry; Pit Passes available to purchase for $10 each

TICKETS: Ticket prices start at just $25!

Pit Passes available for $10 each; Pit Party Early Access Pass pricing starts at $50 each

Tickets now on sale – all seats are reserved; tickets available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com or charge by phone at 800-745-3000; tickets will be available for purchase in-person at the Angel Stadium box office starting December 4, 2017.

**Ticket prices subject to change – additional venue/ticketing fees may apply.

For specific info on each Monster Jam Anaheim event, please visit these MonsterJam.com sites:

Jan. 13: https://www.monsterjam.com/en-US/events/anaheim-ca-0

Jan. 27: https://www.monsterjam.com/en-US/events/anaheim-ca-3

Feb. 10: https://www.monsterjam.com/en-US/events/anaheim-ca

Feb. 24 & 25: https://www.monsterjam.com/en-US/events/anaheim-ca-4

Hope to see you there!

Happy Holidays…

Queen Bee Latina

Disney On Ice: Follow Your Heart

disney-heart
Are you a Disney Fan?

If so, you need to see this show!

Last night, my son and I had a date night and headed to Disney On Ice: Follow Your Heart at Long Beach Arena.

It was our very first time seeing the show, and we had no idea what the night had in store for us…

Hosted: Thank you Disney On Ice for Inviting my family to see Follow Your Heart. All opinions are my own.

disney-follow-your-heart

As soon as the show began, we were truly enchanted. We are HUGE Disney Fans, and we were excited to see several of our favorite characters all in one arena…

Hosted: Thank you Disney On Ice for Inviting my family to see Follow Your Heart. All opinions are my own.

disney-follow-your-heart

Mickey, Minnie, and their friends perform in this wonderful holiday show!

Just in time for the holidays, Disney On Ice presents “Follow Your Heart.” This sensational show presented by Feld Entertainment is running in Los Angeles, Anaheim, Long Beach and Ontario. Disney On Ice will perform through January 8th, 2017.

Coupon link below!  

disney-follow-your-heart

About Disney On Ice- Follow Your Heart

Just keep swimming with Dory, Nemo, Marlin and new pal Hank from Disney•Pixar’s Finding Dory as they embark on a life-changing excursion to find her parents and discover the true meaning of family. Cheer with Joy, Sadness, and the rest of the Emotions from Disney•Pixar’s Inside Out as they help Riley find the confidence to win the big hockey game.

Venture to wintery world of Arendelle where Olaf and Kristoff help reunite royal sisters Anna and Elsa from Disney’s Frozen and learn love is the most powerful magic of all. See Cinderella, Rapunzel, Tiana and the Disney Princesses make their dreams come true through their virtues of bravery, kindness and perseverance. And celebrate true friendship with Buzz Lightyear, Woody and the Toy Story gang.

disney-on-ice-heartMy son and I were thrilled to see some of his favorite characters like Woody, Buzz Light Year, Aladdin, Dory, Mickey, and many more!

This ice skating extravaganza features the beloved stories and characters from the smash hit animated movies Disney•Pixar’s Finding Dory and Inside Out for the first time in a live production.

disney-follow-your-heart

My son and I loved the fact the show was interactive. It was fun to sing along to some of our favorite Disney tunes. Classics like Snow White’s, ” High Ho it’s off to work we go…”

There is one intermission during the show that gives show goers time to enjoy refreshments, snow cones, churros, popcorn, pizza and chips.  Disney souvenirs are also available.disney-follow-your-heart

The performances were spectacular, and there was never a dull moment…

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The costumes were bright and colorful. The dance numbers were jaw dropping, and the ice skaters danced flawlessly in sync.

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The actors had great stage presence and captivated the audience.

disney-follow-your-heartThe props and special effects were spectacular. There was fireworks, snow, fireworks, and awesome light effects.

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We were truly mesmerized by the aerial silk performers and the dragon dance in the Mulan number. (My personal favorite)

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The show ended with Frozen’s Elsa and Anna singing in the snow. The audience cheered and sang along to “Let It Go.”

This show is great for the entire family! Don’t miss it…

Upcoming show Locations- Dates-  Times

Long Beach (December 27, 2017 – January 1st, 2018)

  • Wednesday, December 27 7:00 PM
  • Thursday, December 28 7:00 PM
  • Friday, December 29 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM
  • Saturday, December 30 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM
  • Sunday, December 31 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM
  • Monday, January 1 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM

Where: Long Beach Arena – 300 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802
Tickets: Prices start at $25

Ontario (January 3-7, 2018)

  • Wednesday, January 3 7:00 PM
  • Thursday, January 4 7:00 PM
  • Friday, January 5 7:00 PM
  • Saturday, January 6 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM
  • Sunday, January 7 11:30 AM and 3:30 PM

Where: Citizens Business Bank Arena – 4000 Ontario Center Parkway, Ontario, CA 91764
Tickets: Prices start at $25

Click here to print the coupon!  705351-D30B-Mom_Flyer-LA_Area-389861

American Ballet Theatre The Nutcracker At Segerstrom Center For The Arts

 

Nutcracker-segerstrom

When I was a little girl, I was fascinated by the Nutcracker Ballet. I would often twirl around in my living room, in my tutu and pretend I was Clara. I was mesmerized by the grace and beauty of this magical show. I am thrilled to announce that this holiday show is now playing at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Orange County now through Sunday December 17th.

Kevin McKenzie, Artistic Director

With The Pacific Symphony

One of the great joys of the holiday season, American Ballet Theatre returns with its critically acclaimed production of The Nutcracker. Travel with curious Clara and her handsome prince as they journey through a kingdom filled with colorful characters and pure holiday magic.

Created by celebrated choreographer Alexei Ratmansky, this beloved classic brings a cast of more than 100 performers to the stage, and features dazzling sets and costumes by Tony-winner Richard Hudson, along with Tchaikovsky’s timeless score performed by the Pacific Symphony.

Special Sweet Seats are available for every performance and include:

  • Premier seating location in Orchestra rows A through F
  • Exclusive pre-show selfie opportunity with an ABT dancer
  • A special Nutcracker-themed gift
  • A special holiday sweet treat

Tickets start at $29 and can be purchased online, via phone 714.556.2787 or in person at the Box office.

Running time (approximate): 1 hour and 54 minutes

Audience Advisory: There is no late seating for this production. Patrons who arrive late will be able to take their seat during the intermission.

Address
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
600 Town Center Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Dinner at Bayside Restaurant, Tango, and The Spirit Of Argentina Show at Segerstrom OC

tango-buenos-segerstrom

In celebration of Tango-Buenos Aires- The Spirit of Argentina I headed to Segerstrom Center for The Arts for a tango lesson with Marcelo Ortiz. After I danced under the stars, I headed to Bayside Restaurant in Newport Beach for a beautiful dinner. (check out the promotion below)

Get Your Tickets To The Spirit of Argentina!

Saturday, November 18, 2017 – Sunday, November 19, 2017

Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall
600 Town Center Drive
Costa Mesa, CA
(714) 556-2787
www.scfta.org

TICKETS Start at $39.

PERFORMANCES

  • Saturday, November 18, 2017 at 2 pm and 8 pm
  • Sunday, November 19, 2017 at 2 pm and 7 pm

Get your dancin’ shoes and Tango at the Party on the Plaza Saturday, Nov. 18  5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, November 18, its time to dance at the Center’s free Tango Party on the Plaza from 5:30-7:30 p.m. just before the 8 p.m. performance by Tango Buenos Aires in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall.

Dinner Promotion before or after Tango Lessons!

Patrons of the show get a free glass of wine at Bistango or Bayside Restaurant with any food purchase.

bayside-restaurant-tango

The restaurant had a lovely ambiance and was dimly lit. A live a piano player filled the air with romantic music. The restaurant was idyllic, and set the tone for a perfect date night.

The food and presentation was perfectly balanced and delicious….

Here is my dinner recap at Bayside Restaurant in Newport Beach…

bayside-restaurant-tango
Photo by @Queenbeelatina MILD SMOKED SCOTTISH SALMON Lemon-Chive-Pepper Blini, Capers, Dill, Bermuda Onion
bayside-restaurant-tango
Photo by @Queenbeelatina TARTARE OF AHI TUNA Lightly Spiced with Soy, Chili and Ginger, Avocado, Ginger, Wonton
bayside-restaurant-tango
Photo by @Queenbeelatina OVEN ROASTED RACK OF LAMB Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes, Seasons Vegetables, Grain Mustard Port Wine Sauce

The lamb was cooked perfectly and was very tender.

bayside-restaurant-tango
Photo by @Queenbeelatina KUROBUTA PORK CHOP Skilled Potatoes, Green Beans, “B1” BBQ Sauce

The Cabernet from Paso Robles paired with the pork chops was divine…

bayside-restaurant-tango
Photo by @Queenbeelatina BUTTERSCOTCH BUDINO Salted Caramel, Crispearls, Whipped Cream

Save room for dessert!

Restaurant Address

Bayside Restaurant 

900 Bayside Drive Newport Beach,
California, 92660

Bistango Restaurant

19100 Von Karman Avenue Irvine,
California 92612

Tango Buenos Aires November 18-19th & FREE Dance Lessons at Segerstrom Center OC

Tango-Buenos-Aires

On November 17th and 18th, The Segerstrom Center for The Arts will present Tango Buenos Aires- The Spirit of Argentina. This sensational show is a MUST-SEE and you don’t want to miss it!

This romantic dance has always captivated me. I love the Latin music and the passionate synchronized movements of this elegant dance. 

Disclosure: Thank you Segerstrom Center for the Arts for inviting me to see Tango Buenos Aires. All opinions are my own.

Tango-Buenos-Aires
Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Tango Buenos Aires – Courtesy of CAMI

About Tango Buenos Aires- The Spirit of Argentina

Take a journey to this South American country through the passionate dance and music that embody The Spirit of Argentina. One of Argentina’s greatest cultural exports, Tango Buenos Aires is considered the most authentic tango ensemble performing today. The dancers dazzle with sensual moves and playful drama, while the musicians entice with melodies of romance and nostalgia. This program traces the evolution of tango through the classic musical compositions of Carlos Gardel, a central figure in the history of tango, and his collaborations with composer Astor Piazzolla.

Tango-Buenos-Aires
Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Tango Buenos Aires – Courtesy of CAMI

The Spirit of Argentina showcases the breadth of styles and gamut of emotions that have made tango the cultural phenomenon that it is. “Crafted swirling, fast-paced tapestries of movement, laced with proud postures and sensual couplings” (The Washington Post)

These performances by Tango Buenos Aires are are part of Pacific Standard Time: LA/LA, a far-reaching and ambitious exploration of Latin American and Latino art in dialogue with Los Angeles, taking place from September 2017 through January 2018 at more than 70 cultural institutions across Southern California. Pacific Standard Time is an initiative of the Getty.

Tango-Buenos-Aires
Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Tango Buenos Aires – Courtesy of CAMI

Get your dancin’ shoes on and learn how to Tango!

The Center is offering FREE Tango lessons on Tuesday, November 14th and Thursday, November 16 from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. on the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza. Award-winning Argentine tango champion Marcelo Rivero will teach the essential techniques and movements of ‘the tango’. All levels of experience are welcome – no experience necessary!

THEN – on Saturday, November 18, its time to dance at the Center’s free Tango Party on the Plaza from 5:30-7:30 p.m. just before the 8 p.m. performance by Tango Buenos Aires in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall.

Tango Lesson Dates:

Tuesday, Nov. 14 & Thursday, Nov. 16  6:30 – 7:30 p.m.   

Tango Party on the Plaza – Saturday, Nov. 18  5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Tango-Buenos-Aires
Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Tango Buenos Aires – Courtesy of CAMI

*Tickets start at $39.00

Ticket Services

(714) 556-2787

Performances of The Spirit of Argentina

Segerstrom Center for the Arts 

Julianne and George Argyros Plaza

600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa, CA 92626

 

Experience Day Of The Dead At Santa Ana’s Noche De Altares November 4th

Noche-De-Altares-day

Don’t miss this year’s 15th annual “Noche De Altares” (Night Of Altars) this Saturday November 4th . This community based celebration commemorates the Day of the Dead. El Centro Cultural De Mexico will proudly host this annual celebration in the heart of Santa Ana- calle cuatro (fourth street) from 12pm-10pm.

 

This incredible event will offer live performances, music, traditional food, and street vendors.

About  Dia De Los Muertos (Day Of The Dead)

“Dia De Los Muertos” is a traditional holiday celebrated in Mexico. It includes the creation of private altars called ofrendas. These decorated altars honor the deceased using sugar skulls, marigolds, and the favorite foods and beverages of the departed, and visiting graves with these gifts.

Noche-De-Altares-day

The city comes alive at Noche De Altares. My children are exposed to el flavors of Mexico. They also learn more about their splendid heritage and history. Attendees come from afar to share stories of their abuelos, familias, loved ones, and struggles.

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Noche-De-Altares-day

Get ready to dance…This year’s headliner will be Amy y Su Sonora!

Noche-De-Altares-day

You don’t want to miss this fun filled magical event! This grand celebration is organized by community volunteers and the proceeds go to El Centro Cultural De Mexico.

About El Centro Cultural De Mexico

El Centro Cultural de Mexico is an alternative space in Santa Ana where the community can find cultural, educational, and artistic activities that strengthen their identities, develop their talents and develop a sense of leadership in their community.

Battle Of The Sexes Movie Hits Select Theaters this Weekend and Everywhere September 29th

In a time where women were told to stay at home to be wives, mothers, and homemakers a feminist revolution began. One that would change history forever. Tennis star Billie Jean King decided to take on Bobby Rigs in a tennis match to prove that women can achieve anything they set their mind to, and be equal to men.  “Battle Of The Sexes” hits select theaters today, and in celebration of this sensational film, I attended a movie inspired “Battle Of The Sexes” tennis clinic, the premiere, and press conference.

The tennis match between world number one Billie Jean King and ex-champ and serial hustler Bobby Riggs took place in 1973.  This film gave me a glimpse into the life and struggles of this superstar athlete, that used her stardom for a greater cause. A cause that is still fought by women today.

Thank you FOX Searchlight Pictures for inviting me to the Battle of The Sexes Premiere and Press conference. All opinions are my own.

battle-of-the-sexes

Synopsis

In 1973 tennis match between women’s world champion Billie Jean King (Emma Stone) and ex-men’s-champ and hustler Bobby Riggs (Steve Carell) was billed as the BATTLE OF THE SEXES and became one of the most watched televised sports events of all time. It reached 90 million viewers around the world.  As the rivalry between King and Riggs kicked into high gear, off-court each was fighting more personal and complex battles.  Bobby Riggs, one of the first self-made media-age celebrities, wrestled with his gambling demons, at the expense of his family and wife Priscilla (Elisabeth Shue).  Together, Billie and Bobby served up a cultural spectacle that resonated far beyond the tennis court, sparking discussions in bedrooms and boardrooms that continue to reverberate today.

Battle-of-the-sexes

I hit the tennis court for some training of my own, and met actress Elisabeth Shue who was cast as Pricilla, Bobby Riggs wife in the film.  I was little rusty at first, but I was happy to get a swing in for the movie.

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Elisabeth Shue (in high heels), dazzled us with her excellent tennis skills.

Battle-of-the-sexes

Check out actor Austin Stowell’s shenanigans on the tennis court. Austin stars Larry King, Billie Jean’s husband in the film. His sexy pose has a hilarious backstory, but you need to watch this film to find out what is is! Battle-of-the-sexes

This film is both educational and inspiring…

I will definitely take my girls to see this film. They need to know they can conquer anything that comes their way. They can be the voice for the voiceless and change they wish to see.

http://www.foxsearchlight.com/battleofthesexes/

It was a true honor to meet Billie Jean King at the premiere. I told her that I loved her story, and I appreciated the fact that she paved the path for many of us and future generations.

After learning more about Billie Jean King at the press conference, I have the utmost admiration, respect, and appreciation for this heroic woman.

Photo credit to FOX Searchlight Pictures

Emma Stone dove deep into her character, and brilliantly executed the role of Billie Jean King.

battle-of-the-sexes
Photo credit to FOX Searchlight Pictures

Comedian Steve Carrell’s (Bobby Riggs) larger than life character was just hilarious…

Go support this important film with your entire family!  Now playing in select theaters this weekend, and everywhere September 29th!

Rated PG-13 – This film is for a mature audience

Length 2 hours 1 minute

 

 

How To Throw A Fabulous End Of Summer Party

summer-party-flowers

Summertime has come to an end, and my kids are back to school. To celebrate the end of summer, I hosted a “End of Summer Party” for my girlfriends. I truly enjoy entertaining and creating memories with family and friends, and I have recently decided to incorporate fresh new elements into my blog. I will now include: party planning, tablescapes, recipes, and DIYs.

My talented friend and party planner Sandra Mendoza, and I collaborated on this simple yet beautiful party theme to share with you!

Here are some helpful tips when hosting a soiree….

summer-party-place-setting

Choose A Theme 

Find a theme that is unique and inspires you…

When life gives you lemons… Throw a party!

My party planner and I chose this bright and colorful citrus theme.

“See kid’s inspiration can come from anywhere. I tell clients and anyone I work with parties,
weddings, showers, etc should reflect you and who you are. What inspires you daily or what
reflects who the celebration is for, and there are NO rules. Sometimes, the smallest or most
unusual thing can inspire a bigger picture.” – Party Planner, Sandra Mendoza

Plan Ahead

Don’t leave any planing to the last minute, that way you can spend time and enjoy your guests at your party.

summer-party-tablescape
photo credit to Mary Tran

Set The Mood

Decorate with fresh flowers, candles, and or homemade center pieces. I have learned that you
don’t need to spend a lot of money to create a special ambiance.

The decor was simple and chic, and it all came together beautifully. As you can see, we incorporated lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruit in our decor.

summer-party-cocktial

Warm Welcome

As your guests arrive, welcome them with a cocktail. This will help set the tone to your party.

summer-party-cocktail-paloma

We served this fresh Grapefruit Paloma Cocktail in mason jars, and garnished them with edible flowers.

summer-party-limoncello

Incorporate Small Details

Small party favors or little welcome gifts are always nice…

These mini limoncello bottles were available on ice for my guests.

summer-party-menuThe Menu

Keep the menu simple. You don’t want to fuss or make a mess in the kitchen! Who has time anyway?

My menu included:

  • Fresh Summer Salad with Mozzarella, Spinach, and Basil with 18 year aged balsamic vinegar
  • Rosemary Lemon Chicken (grilled on cedar plank outside)
  • Lemon Asparagus Orzo Salad

summer-party-salad

This colorful summer salad was crisp and fresh.

summer-party-chicken

The weather was perfect for grilling, so I made this Cedar Plank Lemon Rosemary Chicken.

summer-party-orzo
Lemon and Asparagus Orzo Salad
summer-party-dessert
Photo Credit To Mary Tran

Dessert- Keep It Simple!

Go to the grocery store or bakery and purchase ice cream, cookies, pie or cake.

For dessert we served lemon, lime, orange citrus flavored sorbet. I added a lemon Meyer cookie and garnished it with some mint, and served it in a martini glass. It looked elegant and there was no baking involved. Score!

summer-party-DIY

Set Up DIY Station

Set up a DIY station, beauty station, and or play games. You want your guests engage and have fun!

I set up a sugar body this DIY Body Scrub Station with instructions.

summer-party-scrub

The girls whipped up their own sugar scrub by adding coconut oil, citrus shavings, lavender, and essential oils. I provided mason jars so that they can take them home.

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summer-party-dress

The Inspiration- My Lemon Print Summer Dress

Let me introduce you to my talented party planner Sandra Mendoza…

“Hi, I’m Sandra. I am a full time returning student (eek), a part-time party planner (Fun!),
and an always friend of Angela’s (Woohoo). I have known Angela, for some time, but have only
recently worked with her in the fun filled, exhausting, but amazing party planning world. She
contacted me in May about helping with her daughter, Tori’s 21st birthday party. I was happy
and excited to help bring the Toga party extravaganza vision they had to light. While planning
the party, Angela and I discussed her blog and how she was ready to bring new fresh elements
and content to it. We discussed doing some parties and DIY’s together. You could feel how
excited we both were for the upcoming things we wanted to do together. The first thing would be
a lady’s end of summer dinner. Something, simple, fresh, relaxing, and nice to celebrate the end
of a season. As we sat there discussing, planning, and scheming away her youngest daughter
brought in a package that had arrived. (Who doesn’t love a little happy mail). Angela opened the
package and it was a dress she had ordered, an adorable, lemon printed, summer dress. I loved it,
and then it hit me; this was our end of the summer party theme. The lemon print was simple,
fresh, and relaxing. I told Angela, and she agreed this was a great idea. So, off we went to plan
the perfect end of summer dinner party.

See kid’s inspiration can come from anywhere. I tell clients and anyone I work with parties,
weddings, showers, etc should reflect you and who you are. What inspires you daily or what
reflects who the celebration is for, and there are NO rules. Sometimes, the smallest or most
unusual thing can inspire a bigger picture. Maybe it’s a dress print or drinking beer instead of
wine in your wedding ceremony, or not having any traditional shower games, because that is not
who you are. Celebrations should be fun, easy, and how you want them to feel. Find what gives
you that feeling and you can make it your own perfect party! So, cheers to perfect parties, with
no rules, and inspiration that finds us in a million possible ways.”

summer-party

My girlfriends and I relaxed, indulged, and enjoyed our special time together. It was fabulous, fun, and memorable. I hope I have inspired you to host your own soiree…

Stay tuned for the recipes I served at my party… 

Cheers!

~Queen Bee Latina