She carried you for 9 months, nurtures you through life, and gives love with warmth and comfort. Whether she is an aunt, grandmother, stepmother, or nanny, with or without children, but has cared for a child like they are her own then she deserves to be celebrated and cared for. Mom is special and she, without a doubt, is the most important person in your life so treat her by making her day a relaxing one.

Photo credit: alittlemuse.com

Mommy Monica’s Pick:

Mother’s Day comes once a year so a special and unique gift will come a long way. Show your appreciation and love with a Botkier Mother’s Day bag. Mom will not only carry you in her heart but will walk with you in her hand with the VALENTINA Satchel in Natural Snake.

Breakfast in Bed:

Mom shouldn’t have to do make breakfast for anyone on this special day. She should be treated to a royal breakfast in bed. Dad and the kids, why don’t you show mommy that her cooking classes she gave you came in handy. Knowing what mom likes for breakfast is always the safe way to go, but if you want to be adventurous here are a few recipes so mom can enjoy wonderful breakfast in bed, or brunch if she feels like sleeping in.

Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict by Katherine Martinelli

Photo credit: Katherine Martinelli

14 ounces frozen puff pastry, defrosted

8 eggs

6 ounces smoked salmon

Hollandaise Sauce

Finely chopped parsley or chives

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. 2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 3. Unroll the puff pastry (it should be about 1/4-inch thick). 4. Using a cookie cutter or large glass, cut out 8 (4-inch) circles. 5. If you don’t have room for all 8 circles at once, roll up the extra puff pastry scraps in a ball and roll out to 1/4-inch thick and cut out the remaining circles. 6. Transfer the pastry circles to the prepared baking sheet. 7. Put in the oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, until puffed up and golden brown. 8. Remove from the oven and set aside. 9. Meanwhile, poach the eggs. 10. Fill a small pot or shallow pan with 3 inches or so of water. 11. Heat over medium heat until just simmering (not boiling). 12. From just above the surface, crack an egg into the water (you can cook multiple at a time depending on the size of your pot or pan). 13. Poach for about 3 minutes, or until the eggs are set. 14. Using a slotted spoon, remove the eggs from the water and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. 15. Repeat with the remaining eggs. 16. Put two puff pastry disks on each of four plates. 17. Top with smoked salmon, then one poached egg per disk. 18. Drizzle hollandaise sauce over and garnish with chopped parsley or chives.

Beer Waffles With Bacon And Tomatoes from Seriouseats

For the Waffles

1 3/4 cups (about 8 1/2 ounces) all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

3 large eggs, separated

1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter (6 ounces), melted

1 cup buttermilk

3/4 cup porter ale

Cooking spray

Waffle iron

For the Sauce and Assembly

16 strips thick-cut bacon

12 scallions, thinly sliced

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 4 pieces

4 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

2 teaspoons dry mustard

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup porter ale

2 large egg yolks

2 cups (8 ounces) shredded extra-sharp yellow cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper

16 thick slices tomato from 4 large, ripe tomatoes

1. For the Waffles: Preheat oven to 300°F. Place a baking sheet on lower-middle rack. Heat waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions. 2. In large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg yolks, melted butter, buttermilk, and ale. 3. In clean, dry bowl, beat egg whites on medium speed until firm, but not dry, peaks form. 4. Whisk beer mixture into flour mixture until incorporated. With rubber spatula, fold in egg whites. 5. Lightly coat waffle iron with cooking spray. Cook waffles according to manufacturer’s instructions, until crisp and golden. With tongs, carefully transfer to baking sheet in oven and repeat procedure until you run out of batter.

6. For the Sauce: Cook bacon in 2 to 3 batches in large skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden. Reserve 2 tablespoons fat, and discard any additional rendered fat accumulated between batches. With slotted spoon, transfer cooked bacon paper towel-lined plate. Alternatively, line dinner plate with 2 layers paper towels. Arrange 4 bacon slices on top, then cover with 2 more layers paper towels. Microwave 4 to 6 minutes until crisp. Repeat with remaining bacon and fresh paper towels. 7. Cook scallions over medium heat in rendered bacon fat (if you microwaved the bacon, cook the scallions in 2 tablespoons butter) until softened, about 3 minutes. Reserve. 8. Melt 4 tablespoons butter in large heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, until pale golden, about 2 minutes. Stir in Worcestershire, dry mustard, and cayenne and cook 30 seconds. In a slow, steady stream add cream and ale, whisking constantly and vigorously to avoid lumps. Whisk in egg yolks. Add cheese, cook, and stir until completely melted. Season to taste with salt and pepper. 9. For the Assembly: Transfer waffles on tray to cooling rack and increase oven heat to broil. Break each bacon strip in half. Top each waffle with 4 pieces bacon and 2 slices tomato, then sprinkle with the cooked scallions. Spoon about 1/4 cup sauce over each and broil on top rack until bubbling and brown at the edges.

Mommy Day to Do:

It would be a crime to say that there is nothing to do in NYC for Mother’s Day. You may not want to say that out loud. It’s not that there is nothing to do rather what you should choose from those everlasting lists. The Botkier team has a list that can help you with the break down. If you’re looking for a special and unique way to celebrate your Mama, check out our top 5 ideas for Mother’s Day 2012 in NYC. Every mother has a different personality so choose what suit her best. Remember it’s her day but also your day to show appreciation with your gestures of love.

Glamourfied on the Rooftop: Kick-start Mother’s Day Weekend with high fashion at the premier Empire Hotel. Mom can mingle with the A-list crowd of industry elites. Fashion Show will feature celebrity designers showcasing new collections.

Date: May 11th, doors open @ 9pm. Fashion Show at 11pm. 
After Party to 4am

Location: The Empire Hotel Rooftop

Price: free admission!

Age Suitability: 21 and up

For complimentary entry-say HERBERT FOX at door

More info: Email: esverildellc@gmail.com / urbangypsynyc@gmail.com

Mother’s Day Flower Workshop and Tea: The Peninsula Hotel is hosting a floral arrangement workshop partnered with Flowers of the World on Saturday, May 12, from 2 to 5PM. Spend some bonding time with Mom over flowers and linger over the Peninsula’s afternoon tea and champagne.

Location: 700 Fifth Avenue 
New York, NY 10019

Cost: $165
*Includes Workshop and Afternoon Tea*

Mother’s Day Cruise Aboard World Yacht: World Yacht is setting sail on Mother’s Day cruises for the whole family. Choose from a brunch cruise (boarding 11:30AM) with a special buffet (tickets start at $50) or a dinner cruise (boarding at 6PM) with a four-course dinner and dancing (tickets start at $70).

Departure: Pier 81 (West 41st Street and the Hudson River)

Mother’s Day Unbelievable Cupcake Decorating at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!: On Mother’s Day, Ripley’s Times Square is offering free admission for moms and cupcake decorating at this the one-of-a-kind attraction. Ripley’s Times Square has partnered with Sonii Cakes and Catering to create the ultimate cupcake decorating workshop for Mother’s Day. Design unbelievable creations with over-sized cupcakes, colorful frosting and unusual toppings, from chocolate covered insects to Pop Rocks.

Time: 12:00pm-5:00pm

Price: Free admission for mothers. All moms must be accompanied by at least one paid full-price child admission. Cupcake decorating included in price.

Sushi Samba: They will be offering a selection of tasty Japanese, Peruvian and Brazilian inspired dishes in addition to their regular à la carte dishes. Specials include Housemade Quinoa Waffles, Lobster Eggs Benedict and Snow Crab Frittata. There will be live music from a Bossa Nova band which moms can enjoy as they sip on their Mother’s Day cocktail made of freshly muddled orange, triple sec, orange juice and fresh guava.

Date: May 13th from 11:00 am to 4 pm

Location: Sushi Samba, 87 7th Avenue South at Barrow

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY #BOTKIERMAMAS!

BOTKIER SPRING SAMPLE SALE

225 FIFTH AVENUE (Between 26th and 27th Street)

50- 70% OFF ALL HANDBAGS!

Shop Botkier exclusive styles & one-of-a-kind samples

May 1st- 6th
Tuesday- Friday: 11AM- 8PM
Saturday & Sunday: 10AM- 4PM

ALSO DON’T MISS OUT ON OUR MOTHER’S DAY RAFFLE!
Botkier will be raffling 1 bag a day at the Sample Sale.

One winner will be chosen at the end of each day. Come in & raffle away!

Why not serve a Botkier Kiwi on the rocks! Start the night off  with a much deserved Happy hour cocktail. Cheers!

Ingredients:

2 cups kiwi, peeled and diced

1 cup pineapple, peeled and diced

12 mint leaves

2 tablespoons sugar

3 limes, juiced

2 cups vodka

2 cups tonic water or sparkling water (coconut flavor)

Ice cubes

Garnish: thinly sliced pineapple and kiwi

Directions:

1. Line six glasses up and fill each with 1/3 cup of diced kiwis, 1/6 pineapple, 2 mint leaves, 1 teaspoon sugar, and ½ lime juice.

2. Gently muddle together the contents of each glass until fully combined.

3. Fill each glass with ice cubes and top off with 1/3 cup vodka and 1/3 cup tonic water.

4. Stir, finish each glass with garnish and serve.

You can’t go wrong with these mac and cheese bites made by Cupcakes and Cashmere!

Don’t feel stuffed, feel satisfied!

Ingredients:

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

1 tablespoon butter

1 egg, beaten

1 cup milk

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup seasoned dry bread crumbs

2 teaspoons olive oil

1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray. In a small bowl, stir together the breadcrumbs, olive oil and salt; set aside.

2. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook for about 8 minutes, it should still be a little firm. Remove from heat, drain and return to the pan; stir in the butter and egg until pasta is evenly coated.

3. Reserve 1/2 cup of sharp cheddar cheese and stir the remaining cheddar cheese, 1 cup of milk and 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella cheese into the pasta. Spoon into the prepared muffin tin. Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese and the breadcrumb mixture over the tops.

4. Bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the topping is browned. Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes before removing from the pan in order for them to take shape.

Saving the best for last! It’s a zesty and sweet DESSERT! Spring apple pie egg rolls by Spoonforkbacon are perfect for this seasons temperatures.

Ingredients:

Apple pie filling:

2 green apples peeled and diced

1 lemon, juiced

3 1/2 tablespoons instant tapioca pearls
(for thickness)

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground all-spice

1/8 teaspoon salt

1 egg, lightly beaten

16 egg roll wrappers
(sweetened)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

2. Place filling ingredients into a mixing bowl and stir together until well combined. Allow mixture to sit for about 10 minutes.

3. Lay 1 egg roll wrapper onto a clean surface and brush edge with a 1 inch perimeter of egg wash.

4. Spread 3 tablespoons of the filling across one side of the prepared egg roll wrapper.

5. Fold the sides over and brush with egg wash. Carefully roll filling tightly in the wrapper and press gently to seal.

6. Place onto a baking sheet lined with parchment and coat with a thin layer of cooking spray. Repeat until all the filling and wrappers have been used.

7. Bake egg rolls for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Serve immediately.

ENJOY!

CHECK OUT BOTKIER SPRING FLING INSPIRATION BOARD ON PINTEREST

]]> http://blog.botkier.com/botkier-x-pinterest-spring-fling-contest/feed/ 1 http://blog.botkier.com/swimwear-sneak-peek/ http://blog.botkier.com/swimwear-sneak-peek/#comments Fri, 30 Mar 2012 22:08:23 +0000 botkier http://blog.botkier.com/?p=2316 It’s never too early to dive in… Getting ready for summer means more than just hitting the gym again after a long hiatus. Picking your swimsuit style is something that helps your summer and body take shape. Designers are inclined to think about past icons to create sultry new swimwear trends today. Here are some of our faves!

Laces and Straps: Thin lacy straps have evolved to thick edgy straps which can we worn out with a maxi skirt and lots of accessories!

High on Vintage: A high waist bottom with vintage print takes it back to a time when Marilyn Monroe defined sex appeal. Exaggerated gives a twist and fresh modern take.

Shuffle Ruffles: Ruffles have come a long way. Super feminine but now bold in neon colors.

Peek-a-boo Crochet: Started in the 30’s glamour era and adapted in the 1970’s hippie chic era the intricate detailing of peek-a-boo crochet is as detailed as it gets. Beautiful!

Animal Prints: Leopard is always chic. We never get sick of this print! Whether it’s on a bag or shoe or bathing suit. (Growl) with hand gesture, super sexy.

Times have changed along with trends so leave the past behind and dive into Summer 2012. Even if it seems a little early!

(Lisa Blue Collection, Lisa Marie Fernandez, Mara Hoffman)

]]> http://blog.botkier.com/swimwear-sneak-peek/feed/ 0 http://blog.botkier.com/man-i-feel-like-a-woman/ http://blog.botkier.com/man-i-feel-like-a-woman/#comments Fri, 23 Mar 2012 17:30:49 +0000 botkier http://blog.botkier.com/?p=2269

‘Mad Men’ is back on this weekend after a crazy long hiatus! Ladies, let’s celebrate with the power of well… power. Nothing says power like an edgy jacket. This tailored look took the world by storm with Yves saint Lauren’s Le Smoking jacket in the 1960’s. Pair it with cropped or boyfriend pants. These jackets embody control and structure; shoulder pads are back!

Look like a boss: give menswear a run for its money with a new sleeveless jacket. Layer it with a sheer button down or a silky maxi dress. The tuxedo inspired trend can go from night to day in a heartbeat. Check out our favorite bags that go perfectly with this trend.

Botkier Misha Clutch

Stella Clutch

Valentina Shoulder

Girls, get ready to run the world! Don’t miss the 2-hour premiere of Mad Men this Sunday at 9PM/8C.

]]> http://blog.botkier.com/man-i-feel-like-a-woman/feed/ 1 http://blog.botkier.com/sheer-genius/ http://blog.botkier.com/sheer-genius/#comments Fri, 16 Mar 2012 21:55:50 +0000 botkier http://blog.botkier.com/?p=2249 We saw more skin than ever during fashion week all over the globe in runways from Alexander McQueen to Robert Cavalli and Calvin Klein.

Taking it Back: Starting off as a fabric solely used for pantyhose, the sheer organza fabric was revolutionized to be used on wedding gowns and in everyday street wear. This fabric is a serious and sexy fashion trend. It was only to be seen on a woman’s arms and legs in the 1920’s but is now wrapped around ones entire body. This fabric type may have been dated before the 1920’s —3,000B.C.— but has slowly made it into all our closets.

Become a sheer genius:

1. Don’t want to reveal too much skin? Pair a sheer blouse with a light cardigan or jacket for less revelation.

2. For a peek-a-boo look try a skin toned or black camisole or bodysuit that will disappear under that blouse.

3. Feeling extra bold? Grab a pair of boy shorts under a floral printed sheer maxi skirt or try a contrasting lace bra under a silky top.

Top image courtesy of Oraclefox, both via Pinterest.

BYOB Painting Workshops

Unwind with a glass of Pinot Noir and a paintbrush in hand. Release your weeks stress at Paint Along NYC.

When: March 9th

Info: www.paintalongnyc.com

International Youth Musicians Festival

See today’s youth show their passion for music at the annual musicians festival.

When: Saturday March 10^th at 8pm

Info: www.youthmusicinternational.com

Woman’s HerStory Weekend

Celebrate woman’s history month by discovering those women who helped shape our lives, one of many being the First Lady Michelle Obama

When: Saturday March 10^th -11^th 10am-5pm

Info: www.heartofbrooklyn.org/calendar

Super Linda Restaurant

Super Linda is the new Latin hotspot! Enjoy a caliente night with friends, filled with Spanish hits and Mexican cuisine.

109 West Broadway  New York, NY 
10013

Info: www.superlindanyc.com

New York Int’l Children’s Film Festival

Catch groundbreaking kiddie flicks at venues throughout the city at this 15th annual fest. This weekend, try to score tickets to Disneynature film Chimpanzee, quirky movie Lotte and the Moonstone Secret or Japanese animated feature A Letter to Momo.

When: March 2^nd-25^th

Info: http://www.gkids.com/

Youthquake: The 1960’s Revolution

Check out how the 60’s Revolution influenced fashion today at the FIT Museum.

When: March 6^th- April 7^th

Info: http://fitnyc.edu/12043.asp

Artexpo New York

Preview innovative art at Artexpo New York for 2012 featuring over 100 diverse artists. Some featured galleries: J&D International Inc., Shinkle photography LLC, Studio 84 West, Inc.

When: Saturday March 24^th 10am-7pm & Saturday March 25^th 10am-6pm

Info: http://artexponewyork.com/attendees/buy-tickets

Monica’s New York Minute Hotspots

Miss Lily’s Jamaican Brunch

A great new twist to brunch try a Jamaican breakfast. We love the Ackee and Saltfish featuring the yummiest festivals around. That’s Jamaican for fried dough! The vibes are cool and laid back, good music and drinks too.

Info: www.misslilysnyc.com

Tucker Store

Gaby and the Tucker gang have opened a Soho flagship where you can find all her amazing prints! Easy to wear dresses and blouses are faves.

Info: http://shop.tuckerbygabybasora.com

Le Baron

Top French nightlife owner Andre Sariava has made his way to NYC so get exclusive at Le Baron located in Chinatown.

Info: www.clublebaron.com

Rosebud lips, so romantic! The soft rose color blends in beautifully on all skin tones, especially when paired with a similarly toned blush, as makeup artists were fond of doing at the shows. Go for a creamy lipstick, then pat it in with the fingers or blot with a tissue for a delicate stain. Photo of Manon von Gerkan by Monica Botkier.

Power Brows are the new shoulder pads of today! Feminine and striking, the look of bold brows dominated the runways, recalling sixties-era icons like Liz Taylor. The best examples are darkened with pigment, brushed up, and shaped with a dramatic, strong arch. Photo of Joy Bryant by Monica Botkier.

Doll Lashes. Whether curled or feathery, don’t be afraid to experiment. Long, dark and precise – more is more! Photo of Janelle by Monica Botkier.

Modern Cat Eyes. The familiar flick of liner returned to the outer corners of eyes but this time fashioned with inventive, even playful variations. Combine with a brilliant burst of bright color for a look all your own. Wow and we thought handbags were all about brights this season… Photo of Rachel Roberts by Monica Botkier.

Sporty Cheeks. Athleticism inspired the dewy, sun-splashed cheeks seen backstage. Makeup artists mimicked the effects of the being out in the sun by contouring the high parts of the face with lush peach bronze. Skin even seemed sunburned at some shows — but in this case, the illusion proved to be prettier than the real thing. Photo of Tereza by Monica Botkier.

Q&A

What do you think about Valentines Day? Love it or Hate it?

Comedian: Amaaaazing if someone gave me anything Hermes, otherwise it’s OK.

Elle Woods: Depends whether I have a Valentine.

Sweet D: I am a Valentines Day hater!

Quiet Statement: Love to hate it and hate to love it.

Monica: Now that I get Valentine’s from my kids I LOVE it!!

Coco: Only like it if someone takes me out for a nice dinner, otherwise it’s an unnecessary day.

Starbucks Queen: Hate Valentine’s Day.

What makes you Blush– a word, a thing, a place etc.?

Monica: A certain look from my hubbie, especially in front of others.

Elle Woods: My boyfriend makes me blush.

Starbucks Queen: Family and friends.

Quiet Statement: Just about anything makes me blush as long as it’s from someone special.

Coco: Flowers and the beach.

What was the best/favorite Valentine’s Day you’ve had?

Elle Woods: A February 14^th snowfall in Dallas.

Starbucks Queen: Best Valentine’s Day I’ve had was with my friend. We made a home cooked meal for our boyfriends at the time and we put rose petals all over the house and had a candle lit dinner together and our boyfriends bought us cute Valentine’s Day build a bears.

Coco: Never had one.

Quiet Statement: Girls night in with wine, romantic comedy movies, gossip  and junkie snacks. No boys allowed!

Monica: The next one coming up is always the best, looking forward keeps me happy.

What was your worst Valentine’s Day experience?

Coco: Back in high school I saw the guy who had just broken up with me with another girl having a good time.

Monica: Rather than worst I would say funniest, going to Mr. Chow’s with my best friend years ago as two single ladies watching all the couples and having some guy give us tacky roses because he felt bad for us!

Elle Woods: Nothing can be that bad with a good bottle of wine.

Starbucks Queen: Not doing anything for Valentine’s Day or not having a Valentine.

Sweet D: My beau at the time booked one of those cheesy pre-fixed dinners complete with balloons, roses and a violin player.

Quiet Statement: In high school my beau surprised me with a break up before I got the chance to do the same.

Valentine’s Day fantasy? What is something you’ve always longed for?

Comedian: Chilling out on the hot beach with my sexy hottie in FEB winter!

Quiet Statement: Valentine’s Day date on a rooftop or a romantic indoor picnic or am outdoor starry night picnic.

Coco: A ski trip to a cozy mountain house with my boyfriend and friends.

Monica: A spectacular piece of vintage jewelry from said hubbie.

Elle Woods: Flowers delivered to my office from my sweetheart.

Starbucks Queen: I’ve always longed for a day at the spa and dinner on a rooftop in Manhattan.