Picture frames, picture frames, picture frames!  With graduation photography coming up and the scholarly memories they’ve made, they will be sure to appreciate a picture frame.  An engraved picture frame can be tailored to their university, school, the year of graduation, and of course, with their name.  A huge selection of unique styles, materials, and price ranges are available to suit every budget and inclination.

Speaking of pictures, what grad wouldn’t love a new camera?  With so many life-changing events on the horizon for him or her, gifting them with a camera allows them to capture the moments and milestones coming up in their lives.  PCMag has rounded up a great list of the latest cameras and their specifications for consumers to use.

Nikon D3200

What new graduate doesn’t need a little financial help from time to time?  Why not present a little cash in a sterling silver money clip?  Beautifully handcrafted, the sterling silver money clips are a gift they’ll use again and again, and the cash won’t hurt, either.

Specifically for college graduation gifting, Arthur Court’s collegiate collection is authorized by many universities and features the logos, colors, and mascots unique to each college.  Texas A&M, Auburn University, and Florida State University are just a few of the schools represented.  Discover all Arthur Court’s personalized gifts have to offer new graduates.

If travel is in their very bright future, gift them with an exquisitely crafted leather traveling bag.  Many bags are available to be monogrammed to tailor the gift just for them.  Perfect for adventures while they take a summer off or just catch their breath after their years of devotion to academia.

Cross Pens are a time-honored gift for graduates.  Exquisitely crafted, their fine writing instruments are perfect for awarding literary majors.  Get them started off right with a unique pen “mightier than a sword.”

Silver bookmarks, personalized flasks, a compass, engraved key chains, inspirational jewelry, and silver cufflinks are a handful of classic favorites that you can’t go wrong with gifting.  Whatever you choose, enjoy the day with them and make sure to celebrate heartily!

Arthur Court’s punch bowls are beautifully crafted with sand-cast aluminum accents.  Popular patterns like the grape and magnolia design embellish the bowls.  Vibrantly polished with details like dappled glass, his collections are perfect for making the evening easier on the hostess and gorgeous for the guests.

Arthur Court's punch bowl

If serving a chilled punch, it must be chilled very well.  Use a large piece of ice as opposed to cubes.  Cubes melt quickly and rarely look well.  Have a beautiful Bundt pan?  Fill it with spring water (spring water always tastes better in a punch as it melts) and freeze it the night before the party.  Just make sure that the size of the ice block is smaller than your bowl and won’t displace too much punch.   Adding lemon slices, raspberries, or strawberries to the spring water before freezing creates a pretty presentation.

Champagne and sparking water should only be added at the very last minute.  Carbonation disappears pretty quickly over the course of an evening, and you don’t want your punch to fall flat.  Some famous punch recipes with carbonation are Ginger Pineapple Sparkling Punch, Raspberry Lemonade Punch, and a classic Rum Punch.

Decorate around punch bowl with fresh produce

If serving a large party, make extra.  Freeze an extra portion of ice.  Prepare another serving of punch, too.  Store it in the refrigerator and freshen up the punch bowl as needed.  Just remember to wait until filling the punch bowl to add any carbonated accompaniments.

Reed and Barton’s historic punch bowl set is inspired by Paul Revere’s famous bowls.   The 15-piece set includes 12 cups, a punch bowl, ladle, and a tray.  Finished off with shining silver plating, the design is an heirloom for families to pass down from generation to generation.

Paul Revere punch bowl

When adding ingredients, sometimes measurements can become imprecise.  Follow a recipe where it can be achieved, but otherwise, do a taste test.  It’s a simple but fairly accurate way to tell if the punch in fact tastes like the delicious concoction you desire.  Of course, before trying a new punch recipe at an event, sample it beforehand.

Make it personal.  Getting an engraved or personalized gift always shows that thought and planning were put into the gift.  Ideas like engraved silver jewelry, a personalized jewel box, or a monogrammed tote bag are always in good favor and can usually still be ordered with upgraded shipping.

Jewel box with exquisite roses

Every woman loves a purse.  Coach creates purses designed with traditional lines and unique embellishments to make them modern.  Their new spring line is absolutely perfect for gifting.  Something as affordable and luxurious as their wallets are a favorite selection with tons of organizational perks.

Instead of just getting her flowers, why not have a pewter vase engraved with her monogram and fill it with fresh blossoms from the garden?  Pewter is non-tarnishing for easy care, and it is polished by hand to a bright luster that rivals sterling.  It’s much more attractive than the standard thin glass vase most florists use, and she’ll have it to treasure and use over and over again.

American pewter vase

Always a classic, a well-made jewelry box is a traditional gift that could become an heirloom.  Fine woods like teak, mahogany, and African hardwoods create some of our favorites.  Select a jewelry box with quality hardware and finishes for a keepsake that will stand the test of time.

Mahogany jewely box

Sterling silver earrings are a gift that always fits.  There’s no need to worry about the sizing that comes with selecting a ring, necklace or bracelet.  So many unique designs are available that there’s a style for every woman.

Designer earrings from Ed Levin

Turn on the derby.  It’s an expected way to keep guests happy, and plan ahead to find out what channel, time, and how to best view for your group.

Roses, roses, roses.  What could be better for table arrangements than the classic derby flower?  Beautiful and timeless, roses are easy to arrange and perfect for unexpected surprises.  Have a handful of julep cups but not enough for the crowd?  Fill the julep cups with beautiful red roses for centerpieces.

An easy affordable way to feature mint juleps

Serve mint juleps.  Everyone will expect it, and they’re absolutely delicious.  A chilled pewter or silver julep cup is the perfect way to serve a julep.  Silver Gallery’s collection of Arthur Court’s themed derby serveware is an affordable and attractive way to begin adding derby designs to entertaining.

Mint julep elegantly monogrammed

Mint Julep Recipe:

• 4 fresh mint sprigs
• 2 1/2 ounces of bourbon
• 1 tsp white sugar
• 3 teaspoons of water

Muddle 7 mint leaves and sugar together in julep.  Add water and swirl to blend with sugar and mint.  Top up the glass with crushed ice and pour in chilled bourbon slowly.  Finish off with another layer of ice and two or three sprigs of mint.

Fill a pitcher or vase with fresh mint for an edible arrangement

Serve a variety of expected appetizers along with some signature favorites.  Cucumber sandwiches, savory pastries, and delicate sweets keep it simple and elegant.  Derby pie garnished with sprigs of mint is a favorite way to finish off the evening.  Here are some classic recipes.

Traditional Kentucky Derby Pie

Don’t forget to wear a big hat.  Nordstrom carries an incredible selection of vintage inspired women’s hats perfect for the big day.  Having a few on hand for guests to wear if they’ve forgotten theirs is a practical and festive solution.

During the 1700′s, sterling silver’s design focused on characteristic Roman, French and even Egyptian forms.  As America grew, styles changed to incorporate the gleaming motifs of the United States.  Presentation pieces began to arise like Tiffany & Company’s Magnolia Vase.  This exquisite design was inspired by Native and Latin American styles rather than European.  Art Nouveau shortly followed and began illustrating the fusion of old forms and designs with a new and cleaner originality.  The changes in silversmithing reflected the changes in the world.

Tiffany & Company's Magnolia vase c. 1893

Silversmiths continue the tradition in American today, but it is a dying art form.  Skilled artisans struggle against a new economic world, but they continue to struggle with the help of devoted customers.  Artisans like Reed and Barton, Empire Silver Company, and Salisbury Pewter and Silver are American craftsman worth supporting.  Silver Gallery’s tradition of supporting American silversmiths is an ideal we continue to strive for by showcasing their designs and searching for new talent in the United States.

Reed and Barton has been creating silver in the United States for over 187 years.  Their sterling reputation arises from their exquisite designs and quality.  They continue to create pieces like baby cups, sterling silver trays, and shining picture frames.

Reed and Barton's engraved baby cups

Since 1946, Empire Silver Company has been crafting sterling silver and pewter hollowware.  Family owned and operated, their foundry is located in Brooklyn, NY.  Beautifully fashioned gifts are highly polished and perfect for engraving.

Classic American Revere bowls

Dedicated to historic designs while remaining afoot of modern inspiration, Salisbury creates luxurious gifts in silver and pewter.  Located in Easton, Maryland, they use artistic workmanship methods like spinning, casting, and engraving.  The brilliant signature polish of their silver and pewter is a time-honored tradition that requires skill and patience.

Salisbury's exquisitely polished gifts

Take the time to look for American treasures to find a better gift and a better way to buy.  The quality, craftsmanship, and value will always be superior.  Don’t just buy a gift, buy an heirloom.

Mariposa’s unique serveware is fashioned from recycled aluminum and environmentally responsible techniques.  The majority of their gifts are created with 100% recycled materials.  Their goal is to “help redefine the way we all consume-and create-to protect the planet for future generations.”

Eco-friendly craftsmanship

As a pioneer in recycling, Mariposa’s serveware is forged with minimal waste and every effort toward eco-friendly workmanship.  They have remained dedicated for three decades to the idea that what is good for the planet is good for business.  The result of this viewpoint creates tremendous serveware meant to be used, cherished, and enjoyed daily.

Recycled aluminum server from Mariposa

Arthur Court’s glass serveware is created with 60% recycled glass.  Accented by sand cast aluminum, the designs are as luxurious as they eco-friendly.   Huge variety of gifts includes serving bowls, ice buckets, and chip and dip servers.

Arthur Court's recycled glass

Attractive bamboo cheese boards are derived from a quickly growing variety of bamboo that rapidly regrows for a sustainable source of materials.  The boards are available in a variety of patterns like the grape, antler, and fleur de lis design.  Small changes in purchases can make a difference in the world, and Arthur Court supports that philosophy.

Renewable bamboo

Arthur and Elena Court even created a conservancy to fund worldwide wilderness protection groups.  A portion of all of Arthur’s sales goes directly to supply preservation and environmental research.  More information on Arthur Court’s Nature Watch Conservancy is readily available here.

American silversmiths like Hand and Hammer, Boardman Silver, and Salisbury Pewter and Silver are held to American standards.  With foundries located in the United States, these historic silversmiths create stunning gifts with minimal waste and are held to the EPA tenets.  Many retailers are solely dedicated to providing green gifts like Compostable Goods and All Green Things.   Purchasing their handcrafted treasures is a simple transition towards supporting American artisans and environmental consciousness.

Hand and Hammer gifting Jimmy Carter

What else can you do?  If you’re looking for eco-friendly ideas, National Geographic’s article on living green can help.  Make a change and allow what you purchase to support your ideals.

The Statement collection is enhanced with new shining pieces in cast aluminum.  Personalized with inspirational messages, each gift features exquisite engraving.  Best of all, these pieces are already engraved so there’s no wait time for personalization.

Mariposa's engraved Statement tray

Celebrating baby, Mariposa’s new baby gifts are delightful and adorable.  Favorite collectibles like birthday candle holders, picture frames, and baby cups round out the collection tidily.  Each selection is created from a casting and buffed brightly to welcome the springtime baby.

Frames just for baby

Serveware for spring includes fabulous designs like the Peony collection.  Boldly floral, the richly detailed petals of the peony create a naturally scalloped border for these unique serving pieces.  The pattern beautifully complements Mariposa’s gardening gifts for the outdoors.

Seaside designs include the popular sand dollar motif and assorted shells created into sauce dishes and servers.  Superbly coastal, the collection is perfect for gifting and bringing the summer months into decor.  Pair with gorgeous blue tabletop linens for an inspiring arrangement.  As always, Mariposa’s ocean gifts are non-tarnishing with a vibrant luster.

Williams-Sonoma's blue table linens

Love enameling?  New enameled pieces include bright colors like summery yellow, pearly whites, and vivacious pinks.  Accenting flower designs like daisies, peonies, and geraniums, the enameling is achieved over the sand-cast aluminum workmanship signature of Mariposa.  Freshen up the tabletop with some color from enameled serving platters and nut and sauce dishes.

Geranium platter

The Sueno collection is amplified with collectibles like picture frames, plates, and servers.  One of the newest and most stylish pieces in the collection is an oval server accented by gleaming blossoms.  Full of surprises, Mariposa’s collections grow and transform seasonally.

Serve a selection of well-rounded choices

To begin, divide wines and cheeses into couplings, cheeses that pair well with red or white wine to keep the selection rounded evenly.  Generally, wine pairing standards are much more casual than they used to be, and guests should be afforded the chance to enjoy what they like.  As a rule of thumb, the evening should be started with lighter more mild wines and cheeses and work towards stronger flavors and textures.  This can be achieved by grouping wine and cheeses on different tabletops around the entertaining space.

Label cheeses with tidy cheese markers

Wine and Cheese Pairings

Two methods are generally appropriate:  wines and cheese that harmonize or wines and cheese that contrast each other.  For instance, creamy brie contrasts well with an acidic sparkling wine that cleans the palate or harmonizes with a buttery Chardonnay that highlights the creaminess.  The idea is simply not to put together a wine and a cheese that overwhelms each other.  Don’t put together a strong cheddar or Gouda with a mild mannered wine like a pale rose vintage.  They have to be able to stand up to each other.  Organize wine and cheeses together with an arrangement of cheese boards and wines next to each other.

Label cheeses with chalk on slate boards

Some classic combinations are:  Shiraz and cheddar, blue cheese and a Cabernet Sauvignon, or goat cheese and a dry white wine.  Surprisingly, the evening can be perfectly ended with dessert wines and blue cheese generously drizzled with honey.  Don’t be afraid to put together what you enjoy the most– that’s the whole point of the experience.  The Gourmet Sleuth has a beautifully organized chart here for when perfection is desired.

Additional Hors d’Oeuvres

Don’t forget to offer temptations other than cheese.  A break from the many different flavors on the table will give guests a fresh start when trying a new cheese.  Fruit like figs, grapes, and strawberries are popular and easy to prepare choices.  Present in a beautiful fruit bowl for a pleasing display.  Nuts and cured meats thicken out the table while breads and crackers are a neutral between tastings.  More complicated hors d’oeuvres are always in good taste, too.  Options like a French baguette topped rich roasted eggplant goes well with red wine while a crab dip would pair well with a dry Riesling.

Arthur Court's exquisite fruit bowl

Always remember to serve non-alcoholic beverages like sparkling water as well.  With lots of wines on the menu, this helps to keep the palate cleansed and gives guests an opportunity the take a pleasant break.  Frozen fruit like grapes and blueberries look beautiful in glass carafes of sparkling water.

Expertly etched carafes from American artisans

Themes

When in doubt, one of the easiest ways to throw a wine and cheese party is simply to pair the wines of a region with cheeses of the same region.  Focus on French wines and French cheeses or the more affordable and delicious options from California or your particular locale.  Mark the evening as an event for desserts with options like Moscato, ports, Sauternes, and sparkling wines.  Serve cheeses like mascarpone and fruit with complex blue cheeses.  Narrowing a theme for the evening can make the event much less complicated.

Finally, a few notes to remember:

• Remove cheese from the fridge about 45 minutes before serving to allow it to emerge to room temperature.
• Chill white wine beforehand and open up reds to allow them to breathe.
• Prepare a list of the wines tasted for guests to bring home on beautiful stationary.  Include a thank you message for guests’ participation.

Most of all, the hostess or host has really a single goal and that’s to make sure everyone enjoys themselves.  Allow guests to be comfortable with what they taste with carefully planned out guidance through placement and arrangement of the wines and cheeses.  After all, entertaining is meant to be fun!

New picture frames for collectors

The new rose collection features the simple but striking silhouette of a rose.  Many selections like picture frames, chip and dip servers, and harmonizing serving bowls round out a pattern perfect for collecting.  The outline of the rose is achieved through reverse-relief casting, an artistic and time-honored method.

Arthur Court Rose Tray

Many affordable options like wine accessories, bottle openers, and napkin weights are available for gifting.  Grand sculptural designs like the butterfly pitcher feature regal heights and incredible artistry.  Whether browsing for a token or a presentation piece, Arthur Court’s spring serveware has something for every collector.

Sleek lines create Arthur's new butterfly pitcher

Possibly one of Arthur’s most intriguing new additions, the pearl line, is a gorgeous collection that makes use of classic beading in the best possible way.  The rounded lines of the border-work cleanly accentuate the available pieces.  Of course, there’s nothing like Silver Gallery’s expert engraving to make every gift personal.

Beautiful engraving tailors Arthur's new pearl tray

Always popular for springtime decor, Arthur Court’s rabbit collection makes celebrating spring holidays a themed event.  The pattern was reintroduced for 2012′s winter collection and is wildly popular for the spring season.  Accents like the texture of freshly cut grass embellish each piece with a special touch.

Arthur Court’s spring serveware embraces luxurious and seasonal designs for entertaining that children adore.  His prized deviled egg holders accommodate 12 eggs and make a lovely presentation on the tabletop.  This simple and classic dish is a tradition for Easter entertaining and will be used year after year.

Grape deviled egg holder

For the grown-ups, champagne coolers for Easter brunches keep the favorite ingredient of mimosas cool, and beautiful champagne glasses are the elegant accompaniment of indulgent breakfasts.  Bold serving trays are perfect for arranging a variety of temptations like ham, eggs, and fresh fruit.

Create a colorful tabletop with soft pastel fabrics and sweet floral additions.  Yellows, soft pink, and robin’s egg blue make a vividly sweet presentation.  Tulips or daffodils are a classic choice for the season along with dainty hard-boiled egg cups as vases.

If a colorful tablescape isn’t desired, hostesses can’t go wrong with a simple all-white palette.  Classic and crisp white linens, china, and floral designs are easy to coordinate and offer a charming visual guests will enjoy.  White also pairs beautifully with silverware and polished aluminum serving pieces.

Clean white tabletop for Easter

Don’t neglect lighting.  Mariposa’s gleaming candlesticks are designed with a pearled stem.  The rounded lines handsomely balances many Easter motifs effortlessly.  Use again and again for holiday entertaining all year round.

Always elegant candles for Easter

Finally, Arthur Court’s rabbit pattern adds a favorite character of the Easter holiday to the dining table.  Unique designs in sand cast aluminum are non-tarnishing and brilliantly polished.  These fabulous collectibles put the finishing touch on the tabletop.

Perfect for salads and fresh fruit