Tell Your Neighbors About Ramadan and ‘Eid With Homemade Goodie Bags
Nearly ten years ago when I began speaking at local libraries, churches and schools about Islam, Muslims, Ramadan, and/or ‘Eid, I would carry a bag of educational materials like handouts, brochures,...
View ArticleAn Interview About Moroccan Interior Design with Maryam Montague
You might remember that not too long ago I published a review of the gorgeous design book, Marrakesh by Design, by American expat Maryam Montague who resides in Morocco and runs a boutique hotel called...
View Article5 Ways to Host an ‘Eidpalooza
I’m delighted to introduce you to a local Chicago woman who is doing some fabulous and unique things to help people celebrate special occasions or take business branding ‘Up a Notch’. She ships her...
View ArticleHome Design Elements for Ramadan and Eid Décor
Saima Nasim runs the beautiful design blog, Azzure. Have you seen it? It caught my attention because of her gorgeous photos and smart suggestions for interior design and simple home crafts. In this...
View Article5 Tips for An Easy ‘Eid Party
This Ramadan has been so much fun. I’ve had a great time soaking up all the great ideas for home décor, party ideas for kids, and meeting the creative women and men behind design inspiration that...
View ArticleContemplating the Many Meanings of Sacrifice This ‘Eid ul Adha {PLUS a...
by Raana Smith My Eid-al-Adha 2012 checklist: Decorations: check Gifts: check New clothes: check Eid menu: check Pre-prayer snack: not needed Prepare refrigerator and freezer for meat: by October 27...
View ArticleCreamy Spinach Dip
The last article I posted was about how to put together and decorate a beautiful ‘Eid appetizer table and I hope you were inspired by the tips and ideas for serving ware and the quick and easy foods...
View ArticleBaked Pita Chips
If you’re having a party this ‘Eid (or any time), you’ll definitely want to make your own pita chips instead of buying them- they’re that easy {and quick} to make and are hearty enough to scoop up...
View ArticleMy Chicago Cookbook Tour for Ramadan Cooking
I am so incredibly excited to announce that I’ll be touring the Chicagoland area to talk about the recipes in my cookbook, Summer Ramadan Cooking! I’ll be making stops at various locations to do...
View ArticleBeef Samosa Puff Pastries
If you’ve never tasted keema, or that wonderfully spiced Indian-style ground beef, you’re totally missing out on some great flavor. Surely every family makes it a little different- even I have a few...
View ArticleSimple Ideas for a Formal Table Setting
Whether it’s Eid or any other special occasion, it’s a nice feeling to have a beautiful table setting for your guests. It’s even nicer to not have to spend too much time or money to do just that. Here...
View ArticleRepurpose Chic Bangles at the Dining Table
It’s always exciting to receive exotic gifts from faraway lands I’ll probably never have a chance to visit. I felt that way when one of my friends gifted me a set of beautiful shimmery bangles to wear...
View ArticleWelcome Ramadan Party for Kids
Ramadan is a beautiful time to bond with your family and share with them the blessings of this month. Young children, in particular, are inquisitive and eager learners, and are just beginning to learn...
View ArticleLamb Kofta Kabob Pita Sandwiches
Ramadan has absolutely flown by- it’s been busy, peaceful, productive, serene, full of blessings and absolutely perfect this year. I just hope we’ve maximized our potential for rewards taking every...
View Article5 Ways to Host an ‘Eidpalooza
I’m delighted to introduce you to a local Chicago woman who is doing some fabulous and unique things to help people celebrate special occasions or take business branding ‘Up a Notch’. She ships her...
View ArticleCreamy Herb Dip with Crudités
I love a good party dip- and a good party! No matter where you are in the world, it seems, you need a good snack/appetizer/pre-meal munchie to go with the food and warm up the guests as they arrive....
View ArticleCheese Platters for Your Next Ramadan or Eid Party
Every year that Ramadan comes around, I find myself looking for new ways to experience the Iftar (breaking of the fast meal). I want to enjoy what’s seasonal, make things look beautiful and taste fresh...
View Article5 Tips on Hosting a Thanksgiving (or Any) Gathering at Home
All holidays are a wonderful opportunity to get together with friends and family, and typically have us paying a little extra attention to our living spaces since we’ll be trying to accommodate more...
View ArticleBeef Tacos
This is a sponsored recipe post by Knorr® brand. They provide halal-certified bouillon, a product that is used in this recipe. For those of you who know me as a home cook or who follow my Instagram...
View ArticleBeef Samosa Puff Pastries
If you’ve never tasted keema, or that wonderfully spiced Indian-style ground beef, you’re totally missing out on some great flavor. Surely every family makes it a little different- even I have a few...
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