Holiday Gift Guide 2019: Williams Sonoma and Casamigos Tequila And Mezcal Launch Premium Glassware, Bar Tools And Entertaining Accessories Perfect For Home Entertaining

New Co-branded Products Will Be Added to Current Assortment of Premium Cocktail Mixes, Salts and Gift Sets

Williams Sonoma, a member of the Williams-Sonoma, Inc., portfolio of brands, announced today the launch of new premium glassware, bar tools and entertaining accessories in partnership with Casamigos, the award-winning, ultra-premium Tequila and Mezcal brand. The new products are the latest additions to the co-branded collaboration that launched earlier this summer with premium cocktail mixes, salts and gift set.

Casamigos Tequila and Mezcal was founded by longtime friends George Clooney, Rande Gerber, and Discovery Land Company CEO & founder Michael Meldman. Launched in 2013, these small batch, ultra-premium tequilas are made from the finest hand-selected 100% Blue Weber agaves grown in the rich red clay soil and cool climate of Mexico’s Jalisco Highlands for a minimum of seven years. Casamigos Blanco Tequila, rests for 2 months and is crisp and clean with a long smooth finish. Casamigos Reposado Tequila, aged 7 months in the finest American oak barrels, is soft, slightly oaky with a medium to long smooth finish. Casamigos Añejo Tequila, aged 14 months in the finest American oak barrels, has a beautiful pure and refined complex aroma with a lingering smooth finish.

Casamigos Collaboration with Williams Sonoma – Cocktail Mixes, Bar Tools and Glassware (Photo: Business Wire)

Launched in 2018, Casamigos Mezcal, made in Oaxaca, Mexico with 100% Espadín Agaves, rests up to 2 months and is balanced, and elegant with delicate notes of smoke leading to a long silky finish.

The Casamigos bar tools, coasters and cocktail tray are designed to reflect the Casamigos aesthetic. The collection is crafted from hand-stitched leather with graphic embossing, gunmetal-iron finishes and rustic wood detailing. Each piece is made with thoughtful detail, including a cocktail tray that comes with a removable marble slab, and glassware crafted out hand cut, machine-blown glass with sleek geometric designs.

Casamigos Bar Tools and Entertaining Collection for Williams Sonoma (Photo: Business Wire)

For Casamigos Tequila and Mezcal co-founder Rande Gerber, who took a very hands-on approach to the project, the collaboration felt natural: “Design is very personal for me. I wanted to create a line of glassware and bar tools that I would want to use and feel good in your hand. Everything from the shaker to the coasters are what I want at my bar.”

“Our exclusive, co-branded cocktail mixes have quickly become best-sellers and the new additions to our assortment help our customers craft the perfect Casamigos cocktail,” said Williams Sonoma President, Ryan Ross. “I know our customers and fans of Casamigos will enjoy our collaboration on glassware, bar tools and entertaining pieces as much as I do.”

Casamigos Glassware for Williams Sonoma (Photo: Business Wire)

The Casamigos for Williams Sonoma collection includes:

Casamigos Glassware:

• Casamigos Double Old Fashioned Glass, $14.95 each
• Casamigos Highball Glass, $16.95 each
• Casamigos Margarita Glass, $19.95 each
• Casamigos Shot Glass, $9.95 each

Casamigos Bar Tools:

• Casamigos Shaker, $49.95 each
• Casamigos Bar Tool Set, $99.95 each
• Casamigos Bar Tool Set with Shaker, $149.95 each

Casamigos Entertaining Accessories:

• Casamigos Coasters Set of Four with Holder, $59.95 each
• Casamigos Ice Bucket, $149.95 each
• Casamigos Pitcher, $99.95 each
• Casamigos Tray, $149.95 each

In addition to the launch of the new bar tools, glassware and entertaining pieces, Williams Sonoma and Casamigos recently unveiled a new Pumpkin Spice seasonal cocktail mix. The Fall flavor is the latest addition to the co-branded cocktail mixes which include Ginger Lime Mule, Grapefruit Orange Paloma, Signature Margarita and Blackberry Basil Smash. The premium cocktail mixes are handcrafted in small batches and designed to be enjoyed simply by adding Casamigos Tequila or Mezcal and ice. Each mix is 25.4 fl. oz. (approx. 8 servings) and retails for $18.95 each.

Casamigos Tequila and Mezcal has garnered the highest accolades from the spirit industry’s most well-respected authority figures. The Casamigos Tequila and Mezcal family is available throughout the United States, UK, Canada, Australia and expanding worldwide. Casamigos Tequila 40% Alc./Vol. Casamigos Mezcal, 40% Alc./Vol. For more information please visit http://www.casamigos.com. Follow us on social media @casamigos. ENJOY RESPONSIBLY Imported by Casamigos Spirits Company, Manhasset, NY.

Holiday Gift Guide 2019: Williams-Sonoma, Inc. Brands Launch Holiday Collections Benefitting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®

Collections now available online; A portion of sales from each collection benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Williams-Sonoma, Inc. brands Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids, Pottery Barn Teen, Mark & Graham, West Elm and Williams Sonoma celebrate the launch of their exclusive holiday collections benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®.

This year’s assortment includes: celebrity-designed water bottles from Pottery Barn Teen; playful ornaments inspired by patients’ artwork and a special edition Anywhere Chair® from Pottery Barn Kids; a ceramic catchall and whimsical ornaments from Pottery Barn; keepsake ornaments and totes from Mark & Graham; double-sided knit and faux fur throws from West Elm; as well as a mug set, spatulas and chocolate confections featuring patients’ artwork from Williams Sonoma.

Williams-Sonoma logo

“We are incredibly grateful for the imaginative and meaningful ways Williams-Sonoma, Inc. creates opportunities for people of all generations to engage in the lifesaving mission of St. Jude, especially around the holiday season,” said Richard Shadyac Jr., president and CEO of ALSAC, the fundraising and awareness organization for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. “By introducing ornaments inspired by St. Jude patient artwork, designing beautiful gifts, and inviting celebrity friends to create items as well, the brands are helping raise critical funds and awareness for St. Jude to fulfill its mission: Finding cures. Saving children.”

Williams-Sonoma, Inc. has partnered with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital since 2005 through various fundraising efforts.

“Williams-Sonoma, Inc. is a proud partner of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and is honored to have helped in its lifesaving mission for the past 15 years,” said Laura Alber, president and CEO of Williams-Sonoma, Inc. “Thanks to the generosity of our customers and employees we have raised more than $47 million since 2005, and we look forward to continuing to support the hospital in its tireless efforts with the launch of these exclusive holiday collections.”

Details of each brand’s St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital assortment is listed below:

• Pottery Barn Teen releases special edition water bottles featuring one-of-a-kind artwork by Olympic medal freeskier and actor Gus Kenworthy; actor and singer Cody Simpson; singer and songwriter Austin Mahone; Olympic Gold medal gymnast Laurie Hernandez; and actress and entrepreneur Genevieve Hannelius. The celebrity artwork includes song lyrics (Cody Simpson), out-of-this world graphics (Genevieve Hannelius), a simplistic and serene nod to nature (Austin Mahone) as well as personal mantras such as “Be Kind” (Laurie Hernandez) and “Be True” (Gus Kenworthy). Twenty-five percent of the purchase price from each water bottle sale will directly benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
• Pottery Barn Kids introduces four new ornaments inspired by artwork from patients at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This year’s playful felt ornaments include a colorful sequined rainbow fish, an animated pine tree, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Santa Claus. Pottery Barn Kids is also releasing a special edition Anywhere Chair®, benefitting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The St. Jude Peanut Bear Cozy Sherpa Anywhere Chair® is GREENGUARD Gold Certified and the perfect cozy kid-size chair for reading, relaxing or snuggling. Fifty percent of the purchase price from the ornaments and twenty-five percent of the purchase price of the Anywhere Chair® will directly benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
• Pottery Barn debuts a collection of products benefitting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, including two holiday ornaments and a ceramic catchall featuring the word “LOVE” written in nostalgic green and red plaid lettering. The holiday ornaments are both Fair Trade Certified and include a St. Jude teddy bear wearing a cozy hat and scarf, as well as a whimsical pair of felt reindeer holding a heart. Twenty-five percent of the purchase price will directly benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
• Mark & Graham debuts holiday ornaments with personalization options designed to become forever keepsakes. An inscription, such as a date, or a child’s name can be engraved on the timeless boy or girl silhouette ornaments, which are available in gold or silver-plating. Additionally, Mark & Graham will offer a 100% cotton canvas totes bearing the same timeless boy or girl silhouette and a child’s name. Free gift wrapping is included. Twenty percent of the purchase price will directly benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
• West Elm releases two special edition, double-sided knit and faux fur throws benefitting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Each St. Jude Faux Fur Chunky Knit Throw offers style and comfort, and is certified healthy for you and the environment through Oeko-Tex® textile certification. The West Elm St. Jude Faux Fur Chunky Knit Throw is available in Natural Canvas and Heathered Pewter. Fifty percent of the purchase price will directly benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
• Williams Sonoma launches a collection of products benefitting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital including spatulas, a mug and chocolate confections. The St. Jude Spatulas for Williams Sonoma feature festive holiday designs inspired by artwork created by St. Jude patients. The set of four St. Jude Gold Heart Mugs features a gleaming heart created from real gold. The St. Jude Chocolate Thins are prepared directly on the celebrated Poundbury Estate by British Master chocolatier House of Dorchester and the paper wrappers feature original drawings by the young patients of St. Jude. Twenty-five percent of the purchase price will directly benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Its purpose is clear: Finding cures. Saving children.® It is the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. Treatments invented at St. Jude have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20 percent to more than 80 percent since the hospital opened more than 50 years ago. St. Jude won’t stop until no child dies from cancer. St. Jude freely shares the discoveries it makes, and every child saved at St. Jude means doctors and scientists worldwide can use that knowledge to save thousands more children. Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food – because all a family should worry about is helping their child live. Join the St. Jude mission by visiting stjude.org,

Williams Sonoma Launches “A Chance To Win With Every Tin” Campaign To Celebrate The 20th Anniversary Of Peppermint Bark

In Partnership with Visa, Williams Sonoma Has Hidden 1,500 Golden Gift Cards Inside the Tins of the Iconic Holiday Treat

Williams Sonoma announced the launch of the “A Chance to Win in Every Tin” campaign to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the brand’s iconic holiday treat, Peppermint Bark. Together with Visa, Williams Sonoma has hidden over 1,500 winning golden gift cards inside the signature Peppermint Bark tins. The Williams Sonoma nostalgic Peppermint Bark candy is often copied but never matched in quality or flavor. The once-a-year favorite is handcrafted in San Francisco using the finest ingredients, including custom-blended Guittard chocolate and triple-distilled oil of peppermint. Master candy makers pour a layer of melted dark chocolate on a marble table and then top it with a layer of creamy white chocolate. This “bark” is finished with a snowfall of handmade peppermint candy pieces. The result is an unforgettable holiday confection with a perfect harmony of flavors and textures in every bite that is only available at Williams Sonoma for a limited time each year.

William Sonoma logo

The original Peppermint Bark recipe was developed and approved after more than twenty rounds of testing in 1998. The Peppermint Bark name was inspired by Williams Sonoma founder Chuck Williams‘ love of dark and white chocolate and his famous affection for dogs. Since the product first made its debut 20 years ago the packaging has always included the now iconic Peppermint Bark Dalmatian. Each year over 1 million pounds of Guittard chocolate and 65,000 pounds of peppermint bits are used to create Williams Sonoma’s famous Peppermint Bark.

Available both in stores and online at www.williamssonoma.com, customers who purchase a tin have a chance to win one of the golden Williams Sonoma gift cards that range in value from $20 to the grand prize of $1,000. Customers that win a golden gift card are encouraged to share with Williams Sonoma on Instagram using the hashtag #barkyeah and tagging @williamssonoma.

Williams Sonoma Peppermint Bark Golden Gift Card: Williams Sonoma is giving away golden gift cards in this year’s Peppermint Bark (Photo: Business Wire)

The popularity of Williams Sonoma’s Peppermint Bark has led to the development of a wide variety of additional Peppermint Bark flavored products. Williams Sonoma currently offers 24 different Peppermint Bark products—10 of which are brand new for the 2018 holiday season. The new Peppermint Bark products include:

Williams Sonoma celebrates 20 years of iconic Peppermint Bark holiday confection (Photo Business Wire)

• Peppermint Bark, 3lb tin, $79.95: Williams Sonoma’s classic Peppermint Bark now offered in a three-pound tin
• Personalize Dark Chocolate Peppermint Bark, $39.95: Dark chocolate fans will love this luscious new version of our legendary holiday peppermint bark, which can now also be personalized making it an ideal holiday gift
• Peppermint Bark Sampler, $44.95: A trio of peppermint bark flavors include the Classic Peppermint Bark, Salted Peppermint Bark, and Dark Chocolate Peppermint Bark
• Peppermint Dog Tin, $29.95: The Dalmatian Dog Tin makes for a great holiday gift. This tin was inspired by our founder Chuck William’s affection for dogs and includes Peppermint Bark Paws, Peppermint Bark Pretzels, Peppermint Bark Bites, and Dark Bark Bites
• Peppermint Bark Pups, $24.95: Our legendary Peppermint Bark in bite-sized pieces
• Peppermint Bark Brownie Mix, $19.95: We’ve transformed our signature Peppermint Bark into a decadent layered dessert that’s perfect for festive gatherings
• Dark Chocolate Peppermint Bark Cookie, $25.95: Enjoy the flavors of our legendary dark chocolate Peppermint Bark with these festive cookies
• Peppermint Bark Ice Cream Starter, $15.95: Celebrate the holidays with the season’s coolest treat, featuring our signature Peppermint Bark
• Peppermint Bark Quick Bread Mix, $15.95: This kit makes it easy to whip up a loaf of homemade quick bread that showcases the festive flavor of Peppermint Bark

In addition to the golden gift cards that will be inserted in the iconic Peppermint Bark tins, Williams Sonoma will be hosting events at retail locations to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Peppermint Bark. On Thursday, November 29th from 6:30pm-8:00pm, Williams Sonoma stores across the country will be holding a 20th Anniversary Celebration. Customers in attendance will have the opportunity to sample Peppermint Bark, watch baking demonstrations, and enter to win prizes.

The Williams Sonoma store at Columbus Circle will also host a special Peppermint Bark Bake Off event on November 29^th in partnership with Bake From Scratch Magazine and three influential baking bloggers. Erin Clarkson of @cloudykitchen, Vallery Lomas of @foodieinnewyork, and Erin McDowell of @emcdowell will compete to see whose Peppermint Bark creation will be the favorite recipe of a panel of celebrity judges which will include Amirah Kassem of Flour Shop and Brian Hart Hoffman, editor-in-chief of Bake From Scratch. Tickets are $15 and include a copy of Bake from Scratch Magazine and a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital: https://williamssonoma-peppermintbark-bakeoff.eventbrite.com.

The complete Peppermint Bark collection is now available at all Williams Sonoma stores and on the Williams Sonoma website. For more information on the collection, please visit www.williams-sonoma.com/shop/christmas/christmas-peppermint-bark/.

2018 Holiday Gift Guide: Harrods Partners With Williams Sonoma To Launch Exclusive Collection Available In The United States

Direct from the Food Halls of the world-renowned department store, Harrods Hampers, and classic items now available on Williams Sonoma online.

World famous department store Harrods is pleased to announce its expansion outside its native London with leading specialty retailer, Williams Sonoma. Williams Sonoma, a member of the Williams-Sonoma, Inc. portfolio of brands, will now offer a curated collection of 15 classic Harrods items including the iconic Harrods hampers, signature tea blends, premium biscuits, and candy. This exclusive partnership is Harrods’ first venture into the United States and will be a digital e-commerce offering, available at www.williams-sonoma.com/harrods.

The announcement follows an acclaimed partnership with Williams Sonoma beginning when Harrods opened the doors to its new Roastery and Bake Hall, marking the largest redevelopment of the historic Food Halls in more than 30 years. The newly renovated hall sells signature Williams Sonoma food items including confections such as Williams Sonoma’s Peppermint Bark, baking mixes, sauces and flavored coffee beans to Harrods’ local and international customers.

Harrods Signature Hampers Now Available in the U.S. on http://www.WilliamsSonoma.com/Harrods (Courtesy of Williams Sonoma)

Harrods Hampers remain an iconic symbol of the British retailer’s history with luxury food and service packaged together. As early as 1890, Harrods sold School Hampers as gifts from parents to their children returning to boarding school. By 1895, the interest for gifting Harrods hampers had expanded to Christmas ranges with varieties filled with Christmas dinner essentials from brandy butter, full hams, and whiskey. The trend has continued to grow in popularity since the store’s inception and the hampers remain a classic gift for any occasion.

The new range spans a diverse product offering, kickstarting with Christmas items ahead of the holiday season—perfect for gifting or enjoying among family and friends. From British classics including Harrods Mince Pies and Christmas Pudding to year-round favorites like Dark Chocolate and Ginger Biscuits, Blackcurrant Jam and English Mustard, the product offering is an authentic reflection of British treats crafted by Harrods’ world-class team of chefs and suppliers.

Harrods Exclusive Collection

 

Harrods Luxury Extravagance Hamper

• Harrods Luxury Extravagance Hamper, $999.95: (Harrods Truffle Salted Marcona Almonds, Dark Chocolate and Ginger Biscuits, Triple Chocolate Biscuits (x2 quantities), Date and Pecan Biscuits, All-Butter Shortbread Fingers, Blood Orange Marmalade, English Strawberry Jam, Lemon Curd, Dark Marmalade, Orange Lemon and Bay Marmalade, English Blackcurrant Jam, Raspberry and Rose Tea Jam, English Mustard, Beetroot Caraway and Orange Marmalade, Scottish Raspberry Preserve, Devon Ale Fruit Chutney, Hot Smoke Chilli Jam, Cucumber Fennel and Gin Relish, Bramley Apple Sauce, Honey and Chilli Mustard, English Breakfast No. 14 Tea, Earl Grey No. 42 Tea, Darjeeling No. 26, Ground Kenyan Coffee, Ground Java Coffee, Ground Columbian Coffee, Hot Chocolate Praline, Harrods Chocolate Cantuccini, Harrods Linguini, Harrods Olive Pasta Sauce, Harrods Radiatori)
  

  Harrods Exquisite Luxury Hamper

• Harrods Exquisite Luxury Hamper, $599.95: (Harrods Truffle Salted Marcona Almonds, Luxury Everyday Triple Chocolate Biscuits, Harrods Luxury Everyday Spiced Rhubarb Oat Biscuits, Lemon Curd, Orange Lemon & Bay Marmalade, English Blackcurrant Jam, English Mustard, Hot Smoke Chilli Jam, English Breakfast No. 14 tea, Earl Grey No.42 Tea, Darjeeling No. 26, Luxury Ground Java, Ground Colombian Coffee, Hot Chocolate Praline, Harrods Amaretti, Harrods Basil Pasta Sauce, Harrods Linguini, Harrods Rigatoni)
  

  Harrods Luxury Christmas Hamper

• Harrods Luxury Christmas Hamper, $399.95 (Harrods Classic Christmas Pudding, Harrods Classic Mince Pies, Clementine Glitter Biscuits, Christmas Marmalade, Christmas Tea Blend, After Dinner Coffee, Christmas Jam)
  

  Harrods Luxury Treats Hamper

• Harrods Luxury Gourmet Hamper, $299.95 (Harrods Luxury Everyday Triple Chocolate Biscuits, English Blackcurrant Jam, Devon Ale Fruit Chutney, English Breakfast No. 14 Tea, Ground Columbian Coffee, Harrods Basil Pasta Sauce, Harrods Linguini)
  

  Harrods Christmas Holly and Ivy Hamper

• Harrods Christmas Holly and Ivy Hamper, $259.95 (Harrods Christmas Chocolate Bar, Clementine Glitter Biscuits, Christmas Jam, Harrods Spiced Tea, Harrods After Dinner Coffee)
• Harrods Luxury Classic Hamper, $259.95 (Harrods Luxury Everyday Dark Chocolate and Ginger Biscuits, Blood Orange Marmalade, English Strawberry Jam, English Mustard, Beetroot Caraway & Orange Marmalade, English Breakfast No. 14 Tea, Ground Columbian Coffee)
• Harrods Luxury Treats Hamper, $199.95 (Harrods Luxury Everyday Dark Chocolate and Ginger Biscuits, Scottish Raspberry Preserve, English Breakfast No.14, Ground Columbian Coffee)
  

  Harrods Luxury Treats Hamper

• Harrods Tea Tim Gift Box, $125.95
• The Harrods Christmas Treats Gift Box, $125.95
• Harrods Heritage Biscuit Assortment, $49.95
• Harrods Heritage Loose Leaf Tea Gift Pack, $49.95
• Harrods Cocoa Dusted Almonds, $39.95
• Harrods Heritage No. 14 Breakfast Blend Tea Bag, $29.95
• Harrods Heritage Shortbread Tin, $29.95
• Harrods Heritage Toffees, $19.95

Trisha Yearwood Launches Christmas In A Cup With Williams Sonoma

The Country Star, Culinary Host, and Lifestyle Expert Expands Food Collaboration with Williams Sonoma in Time for Holiday Season

Williams Sonoma, a member of the Williams-Sonoma, Inc. portfolio of brands announced the launch of Christmas in a Cup, the latest addition to the food collaboration between the company and Trisha Yearwood. The country star, television host, and three-time New York Times bestselling cookbook author took to her Facebook page to share today’s news (see video here). Yearwood, whose home and lifestyle empire continues to grow, has been collaborating with Williams Sonoma since April 2017 when an original assortment of five food products launched. (The Williams Sonoma and Trisha’s Kitchen collaboration is available at all Williams Sonoma retail locations and online at http://www.williams-sonoma.com/trisha.)

Yearwood has developed a growing lifestyle empire in recent years. The Trisha Yearwood Home Collection encompasses three New York Times Bestselling cookbooks, cookware, furniture, home accessories, area rugs and the newly launched fragrance, Trisha Yearwood. Each Saturday morning, Yearwood’s Emmy-Award winning Trisha’s Southern Kitchen on the Food Network is kicked off by her Facebook Live “pre-show,” T’s Coffee Talk. Both programs have become a weekly hang with Trisha, her friends, and family in a relaxed environment with great food, conversation, and coffee.

Trisha Yearwood Christmas in a Cup available at Williams Sonoma (Photo: Business Wire)

The collaboration between Williams Sonoma and Trisha’s Kitchen is focused on bringing Trisha’s cherished family recipes and entertaining style to life. Trisha’s signature cocktail mix, Summer in a Cup has become wildly popular amongst both Williams Sonoma customers and Yearwood fans. The Summer in a Cup cocktail mix re-creates a breezy drink invented by a dear friend of Trisha’s, on a hot summer day at her home in Oklahoma and the new Christmas in a Cup mix celebrates the flavors of the holidays for a refreshing beverage that’s destined to become a new holiday tradition.

“A specialty cocktail is one of my favorite ways to share my holiday spirit. For a fun riff on my ‘Summer in a Cup’ cocktail, I’m starting a new tradition with a Christmas concoction that’s sure to make the season bright,” said Yearwood. “This merry mixer is great for parties because you can pair it with everyone’s favorite beverage —from vodka or sparkling wine to bubbly mineral water.”

Trisha Yearwood Christmas in a Cup available at Williams Sonoma (Photo: Business Wire)

The Williams Sonoma and Trisha’s Kitchen collaboration now includes six exclusive food products:

Christmas In A Cup: A vibrant combination of ruby red pomegranate and cranberry juices blended with tangerine and lime. Simply add vodka or another favorite spirit, from gin or sparkling wine to bubbly water, for a refreshing winter cocktail. 25.4 oz. / $16.95

Summer In A Cup Tropical Cocktail Mix: A favorite summertime tradition offering a bright, sunny blend of tangerine, cherry and pineapple juices. 25.4 oz. / $16.95

Unfried Chicken Seasoning Kit: Bake up a healthier version of Southern fried chicken with this blend of whole-wheat panko, Parmesan, and spicy-sweet herbs. 6.6 oz. / $9.95

Biscuit Mix: Whip up a batch of flaky, irresistibly light buttermilk biscuits. Just add buttermilk, cut into rounds and bake. 14.8 oz. (makes 12 biscuits) / $9.95

Apple BBQ Sauce: Made with sweet apple puree, tangy cider vinegar, molasses, chilies, and spices. 19.5 oz. / $12.95

Williams Sonoma Debuts Exclusive Tabletop Collaboration With kate spade new york

Collection Marks First-Time Partnership Between The Two Iconic Lifestyle Brands

Williams-Sonoma is excited to announce the launch of the Sadie Street Tabletop Collection in partnership with kate spade new york and Lenox Corporation. Featuring kate spade new york’s signature polka dot motif in 4 distinct color palettes, the collection includes dinnerware, glassware, and flatware, available exclusively in 60 select Williams-Sonoma stores and on www.williams-sonoma.com.

“The Sadie Street Collection marks Williams Sonoma’s first design collaboration with kate spade new york. We love that their iconic brand is known for a playful take on everyday personal style, which is evident in Sadie Street,” said Janet Hayes, President of Williams-Sonoma. “I am so pleased with the result of our brands coming together to design a product that will resonate with our customers.”

THE SADIE STREET COLLECTION INCLUDES:

Williams Sonoma debuts dinnerware collaboration with iconic lifestyle brand kate spade new york (Photo: Business Wire)

Dinnerware: Featuring kate spade new york’s signature polka dot motif with bands of color rimmed in platinum, the collection is available in four palettes—turquoise, black, blush and grey—and includes a 4-piece Place Setting ($126), Dinner Plate ($35), Accent Plate ($29), Mug ($29), All-Purpose Bowl ($33), Serving Bowl ($100), and Platter ($125).

Glassware: Available in sets of two, the glassware selection includes the Double Old-Fashioned, Highball, Champagne Coupe, Wine Glass, and Champagne Flute and features a band of etched polka dots with a platinum rim ($50 per pair).

Flatware: Sleek silhouettes and a clean design complement the rest of the line. Available as a 5-Piece Place Setting ($70) and a 20-Piece Set of 4 5-Piece Place Settings ($280).

• Expertly crafted by Lenox, American makers of fine dinnerware since 1889, the collection is an elegant addition to special-occasion meals throughout the year.
• Five-piece place setting includes a dinner fork, salad fork, soup spoon, dinner knife, and teaspoon.
• Spoons and forks are crafted of 18/10 stainless steel; each knife is forged from a single ingot of hardened stainless steel for a well-honed cutting edge.
• Natural silver finish is easy to maintain.
• Dishwasher safe.

To view the entire collection, visit: http://www.williams-sonoma.com/shop/tabletop-glassware-bar/kate-spade-new-york/

The Culinary Institute Of America (CIA) At Copia Announces Establishment Of The Chuck Williams Culinary Arts Museum

A museum honoring Charles E. “Chuck” Williams–the man who reshaped the way America cooks and the visionary behind Williams-Sonoma–will be the centerpiece of The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) at Copia. Made possible by a generous gift from the Williams Estate, the Chuck Williams Culinary Arts Museum at the CIA at Copia will become a new attraction in the City of Napa for culinarians worldwide. The founder of Williams-Sonoma passed away on December 5, 2015 following his 100^th birthday earlier in the year.

A museum honoring Charles E. “Chuck” Williams—the man who reshaped the way America cooks and the visionary behind Williams-Sonoma—will be the centerpiece of The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) at Copia.

The extensive display of kitchen items collected within his lifetime will honor his legacy and ensure that culinary enthusiasts will always learn from and remember the history and traditions of our culinary heritage. The collection represents a rich heritage of the culinary arts from around the world and includes treasures from the 18^th and 19^th Century–a batterie de cuisine of copper cookware from 1890s France; ceramic and metal pudding, chocolate, and ice cream molds; and European and Early American baking and pastry equipment from the early 1900s. Among the nearly 4,000 artifacts are bread baking and culinary tools, specialty cookware, tableware, large and small appliances, and cookbooks. Additional items will be curated for temporary exhibits. The Chuck Williams Culinary Arts Museum at The Culinary Institute of America at Copia is expected to open in spring 2017.

The Chuck Williams Culinary Arts Museum at The Culinary Institute of America at Copia will feature nearly 4,000 artifacts including bread baking and culinary tools, specialty cookware, tableware, large and small appliances, and cookbooks from around the world.

The Culinary Institute of America acquired the Copia property in November 2015 and is carrying forward the facility’s original goal of providing excellence in culinary education and food-based experiences to Napa Valley visitors when it reopens as the CIA at Copia in 2016.

The Chuck Williams Culinary Arts Museum at The Culinary Institute of America at Copia will feature nearly 4,000 artifacts including bread baking and culinary tools, specialty cookware, tableware, large and small appliances, and cookbooks from around the world

Totaling more than 80,000 square feet, the Copia building features a 280-seat theater, two restaurant venues, a 100-seat demonstration kitchen and theater, a library, retail space, classrooms, and exhibition spaces. Situated next to the Oxbow Public Market on First Street in downtown Napa, the CIA at Copia will provide visitors to the burgeoning Oxbow district with an expanded array of food and wine offerings.

“Chuck Williams introduced the culinary tools and equipment that were essential in transforming the art of cooking, eating, and entertaining in the American home,” says CIA President Dr. Tim Ryan. “We are delighted that this unique and wide-ranging collection will be on permanent display to the community at the CIA at Copia.“

The Chuck Williams Culinary Arts Museum at The Culinary Institute of America at Copia will feature nearly 4,000 artifacts including bread baking and culinary tools, specialty cookware, tableware, large and small appliances, and cookbooks from around the world.

The story began in 1952, when Williams took a three-month trip to Europe and Scandinavia with friends and saw what international cooks were using in their home kitchens. He loved collecting, and returned to Europe numerous times, scouring shops, restaurants, and factories for high-quality cookware and specialty foods he could introduce to cooks in the United States. In 1956, he opened his first cookware store in Sonoma which moved to San Francisco in 1958 at the urging of friends. Many of those items would become American kitchen classics, such as enameled cast-iron pots, Mauviel Copper Cookware, Apilco and Pillivuyt porcelains, tart tins, kugelhopfs, crêpe pans, the Cuisinart food processor, and balsamic vinegar.

The Chuck Williams Culinary Arts Museum at The Culinary Institute of America at Copia will feature nearly 4,000 artifacts including bread baking and culinary tools, specialty cookware, tableware, large and small appliances, and cookbooks from around the world.

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® And More Than 70 Leading National Brands Kick Off The Season Of Giving With Annual St. Jude Thanks and Giving® Campaign

Kmart, Best Buy, ANN INC., Kay® Jewelers, Domino’s, Williams-Sonoma, Inc., HomeGoods and Others Unite To Help End Childhood Cancer

Now in its twelfth year, the St. Jude Thanks and Giving campaign has transformed the holiday season into a time of giving thanks by raising awareness and funds for the ongoing battle to end childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. The campaign unites celebrities, media, retail and corporate partners in asking consumers to donate while they shop and support the lifesaving mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Founded by the late actor/entertainer Danny Thomas, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. It is the only NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE-designated COMPREHENSIVE CANCER CENTER devoted solely to children. Treatments invented at St. Jude have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20 percent to 80 percent since the hospital opened more than 50 years ago. St. Jude is working to drive the overall survival rate for childhood cancer to 90 percent, and they won’t stop until no child dies from cancer. St. Jude freely shares the discoveries it makes, and every child saved at St. Jude means doctors and scientists worldwide can use that knowledge to save thousands more children. Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food – because all a family should worry about is helping their child live.

What began as a holiday-focused fundraising effort by St. Jude has now grown into an annual tradition that has raised more than $588 million. These funds support St. Jude’s mission to provide cutting-edge treatment and pursue visionary research.

Marlo Thomas, National Outreach Director for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, helps kick off St. Jude Thanks and Giving, an annual campaign that has transformed the holiday season into a time of giving thanks by raising awareness and funds for the ongoing battle to end childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. (PRNewsFoto/St. Jude Children’s Research…)

“We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support we receive year after year during the St. Jude Thanks and Giving campaign,” said Marlo Thomas, National Outreach Director for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. “Throughout the holiday season people open their hearts to the children of St. Jude and as a result, our doctors and scientists can continue their groundbreaking research and pioneering procedures that help us achieve our landmark survival rates. And, we are able to continue to ensure that no family pays St. Jude for anything – not for treatment, travel, housing or food – because we believe all a family should worry about is helping their child live.“

Beginning in November and running through the end of December, consumers can support St. Jude while they shop at a variety of businesses representing a cross-section of premier brands in retail, restaurant, travel, hospitality, media and beyond. Top returning campaign partners include Kmart, Best Buy, ANN INC., Kay® Jewelers, Domino’s, Williams-Sonoma, Inc.; HomeGoods, New York & Company, AutoZone, Brooks Brothers, GNC, Dollar General, Claire’s, Carnival Cruise Line, Justice, HSN, Marshalls, Chili’s® Grill & Bar; and Mazda, to name a few.

“Kmart’s long history of success in supporting charitable causes is due to the generosity of our Shop Your Way members, customers and associates. We’re proud of the impact our results have made for the families of St. Jude and thankful to St. Jude for its tireless work to defeat cancer and other diseases in children. St. Jude made holiday shopping at Kmart more rewarding and we’re excited to support an organization that clearly means so much to our members,” said Alasdair James, President and Chief Member Officer at Kmart.

This year, St. Jude partners are expanding and supporting the campaign in a variety of ways – from in-store fundraising to unique cross-promotions, events and online/mobile features.

“It is Best Buy’s privilege to partner in the St. Jude Thanks and Giving campaign, by making it convenient for our customers to give back while shopping in stores and online during the holidays,” said Sharon McCollam, Chief Administrative Officer and Chief Financial Officer at Best Buy. “By adding options to give through our credit card signature pads last year, we made it easier for customers to contribute during the checkout process. As a result of their generosity, we were able to contribute $9.7 million last year, and hope to do even more this year to support the children and families served by St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.“

OTHER PARTNER HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

Several partners are offering merchandise products during the holidays to benefit St. Jude including

– Ann Taylor, Brooks Brothers, HomeGoods, HSN, Kmart, New York & Company, The Limited, TUMI, Westfield, Williams-Sonoma, Inc. and their portfolio of brands; to name a few.

– Kay® Jewelers will once again offer its popular plush animals benefitting St. Jude, this year featuring Travis and Trey.

– AutoZone, returning for its 10th year as a St. Jude Thanks and Giving partner, will continue to ask consumers to donate at checkout via the credit pad.

– Customers will be able to donate through a fully integrated online shopping cart at Best Buy, Ann Taylor, LOFT, Claire’s and ICING. In addition, customers will now be able to donate via the pin pad at the register at GameStop, The Limited, Crazy8 and Janie and Jack locations nationwide.

– eBay is giving its customers the opportunity to give at checkout during the week of December 7. During this time, customers can also bid on celebrity items that will benefit St. Jude.

– Domino’s will ask consumers to donate to St. Jude via walk-up, telephone, online and mobile orders, as well as the opportunity to purchase a St. Jude Meal Deal during the campaign timeframe. For each Meal Deal purchased, Domino’s will donate $1 to St. Jude.

– Stage Stores and St. Jude will be featured on the Balancing Act on Lifetime TV this holiday season.

– Party City has joined the campaign this year and customers can make a donation at nearly 600 stores nationwide or donate online during checkout.

Academy of Arts University Fashion Design and Textile Design Students Shine at Fall/Winter 2014 New Fashion Week

Designer Profile and Inspiration Images by David Dooley/Runway Images by Randy Brooke/WireImage 

Every designer dreams of showing their collection at Mercedes- Benz Fashion Week, and on Friday, February 7th that dream came true for 13 designers from the School of Fashion at Academy of Art University. “Since 2005, the School of Fashion has premiered the collections of students and recent graduates during New York Fashion Week. Part of our commitment to our students is to help launch their careers and have their work seen by industry professionals,” said Dr. Elisa Stephens, President of Academy of Art University. “Debuting these designers’ collections during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week is an incredible opportunity for each of them.”

With more than 18,000 students, Academy of Art University is the nation’s largest accredited private art and design university. Established in 1929, the school offers accredited A.A., B.A., B.F.A., M.A., M.F.A., and M.Arch degree programs in Acting, Advertising, Animation & Visual Effects, Architecture, Art Education, Art History, Fashion, Fine Art, Game Design, Graphic Design, Illustration, Industrial Design, Interior Architecture & Design, Jewelry & Metal Arts, Landscape Architecture, Motion Pictures & Television, Multimedia Communications, Music Production & Sound Design for Visual Media, Photography, Visual Development, and Web Design & New Media. Online degrees are offered in most areas. Academy of Art University is an accredited member of WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges), NASAD (National Association of Schools of Art and Design), NAAB (Master of Architecture), and CIDA (Council for Interior Design Accreditation offered for BFA-IAD, MFA-IAD).

For the Fall 2014 season, 13 designers presented eight collections, four of which were collaborations between Fashion Design and Textile Design students. In total, six womenswear and two menswear collections were presented at the Academy of Art University Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week show.

Jaci Hodges, M.F.A. Fashion Design, collaborated with Nisha Hanna Btesh, B.F.A. Textile Design, on a 1960s-inspired womenswear collection that was created with the use of Shibori, the Japanese technique of resistance felting. Originally from Austin, TX, Jaci holds a B.B.A. in Marketing with a minor in Philosophy. Additionally, she recently completed a design internship with gr.dano, a Bay Area ready-to-wear company co-founded by fellow alumna Jill Giordano. Nisha is a California native, born and raised in San Diego. Jaci and Nisha were inspired by the excess of prints worn during the late 1960s, in particular to those seen on the Brady Bunch, and the costumes worn by Mia Farrow in the film Dandy in Aspic.

Frank Tsai, M.F.A. Fashion Design, collaborated with Andrea Nieto, B.F.A. Textile Design, on a menswear collection inspired by the mood and emotion of an international photography collection, “Beauty in Decay,” personal struggle, raw emotion, and the different stages of the healing process. Frank was born and raised in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, earned a B.S. Degree in Fashion Design and Merchandising, was awarded high honors for his undergraduate fashion show, and worked as the Marketing Manager for FU YU Clothing Company. Andrea grew up in Cali, Valle del Cauca, Colombia, is on the Academy of Art University President’s Honor List, was awarded a $10,000 scholarship through the YMA Scholarship Fund as a Geoffrey Beene National Scholar, and recently finished a design internship at BCBGMAXAZRIA.

Feast Your Eyes on Fashion: Seattle to Rock the Runway Again

Fashion show kick-off in the Pacific Place Atrium at 600 Pine Street, followed by four more days of sizzling fashion discounts and prizes at participating Downtown Seattle merchants.

September 18th fashion show kicks off a five-day, city-wide shopping, dining and savings celebration presented by Seattle Met, Pacific Place and the Downtown Seattle Association’s Metropolitan Improvement District.

Downtown Seattle Rocks the Runway’s second annual runway show just got exponentially more exciting with the addition of co-emcee LaTrina Bidet, whose sense of humor is as renowned as her sense of style. Bidet will be joining Seattle Met’s own fount-of-fashion-wisdom Laura Cassidy who promises more plaid, leather and spikes in addition to statement outerwear and dark, moody florals trending this fall. Net proceeds from ticket sales will fund Junior League of Seattle and the organization’s programs for child advocacy, childhood nutrition and life skills development for girls in the state’s foster care system among others.

Pacific Place and Seattle Met magazine will present Downtown Seattle’s second annual collaborative charity benefit fashion show in the atrium at Pacific Place. Seattle Met will stage “red carpet” photos for everyone attending the event dressed to impress. Ticket holders also will enjoy cocktail receptions and raffle prizes, while they and the public will get to enjoy special events taking place in and around the stores and restaurants at Pacific Place before and after the runway show. The event is made possible, in part, by event sponsor Metropolitan Improvement District.

The runway show will give 250 seated ticket holders a close-up view of some of Seattle’s finest autumn clothing and accessories, while hundreds more will enjoy unobstructed views from the balconies above for free. The Roche Bobois lounge opens at 6 p.m. for VIP ticket holders on the second floor of Pacific Place, with a cocktail reception featuring fine wines from O Wines, Peroni beer, signature cocktails and appetizers, courtesy of Pacific Place restaurants: Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant, Il Fornaio, Johnny Rockets, Mexico Cantina y Cocina, Pike Place Chowder and Thai Ginger. General admission ticket holders also will enjoy their own cocktail reception on the second floor of Pacific Place with wine, cocktails and appetizers.

At 7:30 p.m, Downtown Seattle will Rock the Runway with a major fashion show of 40-plus autumn looks from participating downtown retailers, including Nordstrom, Macy’s, Barneys New York, Club Monaco, Momo, Mario’s, sandylew, The Finerie, Columbia Sportswear, Eileen Fisher, GUESS? and emilie SLOAN among others. In addition, Aveda is providing beauty products and Gary Manuel will style the models’ hair for the runway show.

This year’s event is sure to top last year’s inaugural show for at least one sizzling reason – deals! Five days of dining and shopping discounts follow the party beginning Wednesday, September 18th. Guests and visitors will enjoy savings of 10 to 30 percent off and free gifts with purchase at 40 retailers and restaurants including BCBGMAXAZRIA, Coach, Twist and Williams-Sonoma. Seattle Met, Pacific Place, and the Metropolitan Improvement District are extending an open invitation to celebrate the season with the return of the Emerald City’s premier collaborative benefit fashion show.

New this year, Downtown Seattle Rocks the Runway kicks off a city-wide, five-day shopping, dining and savings celebration, September 18-22. Downtown Seattle retailers and eateries continue the celebration all weekend with in-store events and specials including sizzling fashion discounts, gifts with purchase and prizes at participating merchants. Currently there are 40 participating retailers and restaurants signed on, with more to come. For details and updated information on all participating retailers and restaurants, go to http://www.seattlemet.com/runway.

Fashion show tickets for General Admission and VIP access are available for $75 and $125 respectively and may be purchased through the event web site, www.seattlemet.com/runway. General Admission ticket holders will receive seated access to the show, swag bags, cocktails and appetizers courtesy of Pacific Place restaurants.VIP ticket holders will receive premier seating for the show, deluxe swag bags, access to the Roche Bobois lounge and reception, and courtesy valet parking. In addition, hundreds more from the public will have the opportunity to witness the fashion show for free from the balconies above.

Runway Show Sponsors includes The Downtown Seattle Association’s Metropolitan Improvement District, Northwest Cadillac Dealers, Proximo Spirits, Roche Bobois, STAR 101.5, O Wines, Peroni, Aveda and Gary Manuel.

The Fashion + Lifestyle Home Report: The KUHN RIKON BAKING TOOLS Edition

Written and compiled by Phillip D. Johnson

BELLA INTRODUCES A NEW COUNTER CULTURE WITH THE LAUNCH OF BELLA DOTS SPECIALTY KITCHEN APPLIANCES

BELLA DOTS BRINGS INNOVATION, AFFORDABILITY AND CHIC DESIGN TO A NEW GENERATION

BELLA – the industry leader in treatmakers, specialty baking and entertaining appliances – announces today the launch of BELLA DOTS.  The contemporary collection, featuring a coffee maker, toaster and slow cooker, brings a new counter culture to the kitchen by adding fashion-forward color, style and design to the everyday appliance. Providing a way to make home cooked meals in style, the BELLA Dots Collection offers consumers an economical appliance option, without sacrificing quality or aesthetics. Since its inception in 2003, SENSIO INC.has become a primary manufacturer of specialty kitchen appliances. The company is

Bella Dots Coffee Maker (Blue)

recognized for developing dynamic and innovative consumer products for their own brand, BELLA – the industry leader in treatmakers, specialty baking and entertaining appliances – and licensing partners including THE COFFEE BEAN & TEA LEAF. With a strong commitment to design, innovation, quality and function, SENSIO INC. offers a wide range of products from coffee makers and juicers to exciting entertaining appliances such as cake pop and personal pie makers, which are sold through major retailers nationwide.  The company continues to conceptualize new and innovative ways to make everyday life in the kitchen easier.  For more information, please visit www.SensioInc.com.

Available in eight vibrant colors (red, pink, blue, purple, grey, orange, green and pearl white); the signature textured metal shell features a recessed dot pattern and metallic finish on its chic exterior, adding another striking design element to the appliances’ overall flair.

“Small kitchen appliances have become a sea of sameness,” says SHAE HONG, FOUNDER & CEO OF SENSIO INC., “Our goal was to offer unique and stylish design with eye-popping color and superior quality at an affordable price. We are delighted to finally introduce some fashion into the kitchen, without breaking the bank or compromising the quality of the products.”