How to be the perfect guest

                                                      

                                                       How to be the perfect guest!

As the host/hostess of an event, you want to make a good impression. The perfect food, decor, entertainment and fun to keep your guest amused and happy to be in attendance. Though it's a lot of pressure know that you aren't the only one stressing. Sometimes being the guest is just as hard. Knowing all the rights and wrongs can be just as challenging for them as well. Let 1stClassLadies make that a little easier for you with the guidelines to being the perfect guest!

RSVP when needed. Some events such as wedding, engagement parties, etc. require a response that one will be attending that event. Be sure to return the RSVP in a timely manner. This is to help the host/hostess to be prepared so everyone is catered to. When someone is paying for an event by plate you MUST let them know a yay or nay! No one wants to spend unnecessary money so if you not attending for whatever reason let them know especially if you stated you were attending already. NEVER bring uninvited baggage! If the host/hostess didn't provide you with a spot to bring a guest your riding solo that night.

Dress for the occasion. Let's start with before leaving your house. The proper attire says a lot about a person. When you wear the right thing you feel confident and secure. You don't want to be in stilettos and party cloths for dinner date to meet the parents and you don't want to be in sneakers and a t-shirt for a business meeting with a hopeful client. Dress according to the event. If your not sure of the dress code ASK! It doesn't hurt and it's better to be safe then sorry.

ON time is the RIGHT time. Though everyone knows someone who is always late and we have just come to expect them to be that way that doesn't make it okay to be a tardy guest. It's very rude and sometimes a sign of disrespect depending upon the event your attending. Remember that whoever is providing the event put in a lot of time and effort to make this worth you attending. The least one can do is show up on time.

A little something for the party. It's always nice no matter the occasion to bring a little something. A bottle of wine, some flowers for the hostess, the list can go on. It's a sign of appreciation. Just letting the person known you are thankful for the invite. Another way of showing your appreciation is sending a card, note, flowers or fruit with a thank you note attached as a kind gesture after the event has taken place.

Offer a hand. Being a host/hostess can be overwhelming before during and even after the mess. Yes after the party is the after party BUT after the after the after party is a party MESS! Someone has to clean it up! Doesn't hurt to offer a hand in the process. Though it's not your job and no it's not what you came to the event for it is once again a gesture of kindness that is greatly appreciated by the host/hostess. Throwing out some let behind trash or putting some things away is not much but it's one less job they have to do.

Make any occasion worth the invite. Lets be real- no one attends a party with the intentions of staying to themselves. So even if you attend something only knowing the person hosting make it worth it. SOCIALIZE!!! Speak to people, break the ice with a joke or a compliment even casual convo (like the weather.) know what topics, language, and personal information is appropriate for the occasion!! Don't down your job at a business meeting and some personal information is just a little to personal for the soon to be in-laws! Potty mouth language is okay when your with the crew but not for an upscale social event. Stay away from negative talk as you don't want to come off as the party pooper. And remember to have fun!!

OCTOBER IS NATIONAL CYBER SECURITY MONTH...

"STAY SAFE"

 

 

 

 

WITH THE ADVANCEMENT OF TECHNOLOGY OVER THE LAST TWO DECADES WE'VE GOT A WHOLE NEW WORLD!  FROM THE INVENTION OF THE MICROWAVE TO COMPUTERS AND SMART PHONES DOING EVERYTHING FROM GIVING DIRECTIONS TO TALKING BACK.  THE MONTH OF OCTOBER MARKS NATIONAL CYBER SECURITY AWARENESS MONTH.  WHAT DOES THIS MEAN, MIGHT YOU ASK??  ITS A REMINDER TO DOUBLE, TRIPLE CHECK YOUR SECURITY MEASURES WHEN USING THE INTERNET WHEN IT PERTAINS TO YOUR FINANCIAL MATTERS AND PURCHASING MERCHANDISE.  HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO FOLLOW!!

 

 

Don’t overshare. Social media is a great way to connect with friends and loved ones, but it’s best not to publicly post personal information. Limit what you post on social media sites or online forums and activate your privacy settings. You never know who might be lurking online.
Lock your computer. Lock your computer whenever you step away from your desk at work. I can’t stress this one enough. A few years ago, I stepped away from my desk, and when I came back, an intern was reading my email. Ever since that incident, I always lock my computer and make sure that a password is needed to open my screen.

Set strong passwords. Using a combination of upper and lowercase letters and numbers can make it harder to guess your password. But the work doesn’t stop there. Once you’ve made up a cyber-criminal-proof password, don’t give it out to anyone.
Install updates. Don’t ignore those messages urging you to update your software. This simple step can save you a world of trouble.





Use firewalls and anti-virus software. Firewalls and anti-virus protection are crucial to shielding your computer from threats. There are even some great products available that are free of charge. One free anti-virus software of note is Zone Alarm.

Beware of emails requesting financial information. If you get an email requesting you to verify financial account information online, beware. Even if the communication appears to be from your bank, there’s still a chance it could be from a cyber criminal, seeking to steal your financial information. Always call your bank directly, and make sure it’s the same number you usually use.

Be sure to check out our CLASSIFIED section for updated job listings and exams!!

Halloween Safety

I don't know that there are real ghosts and goblins, but there are always more trick-or-treaters than neighborhood kids. ~Robert Brault

Time for the spooky customs and tasty treats. The darling princesses and the action packed hero's. Halloween is here and though it's great to have fun with the goons and goblin's 1stClassLadies are also parents and know the dangers as well as concerns affiliated with the scary day. Let us give you some safety tips for you and your loved ones this Halloween. This way they can enjoy themselves and you can feel comfort in letting them.

Have A Time & Plan Then Stick To It. Before even leaving the house know all the answers to any questions there may be. Where are you trick or treating, what time you will leave and return, if someone gets lost is there a meet up location. All important questions that EVERYONE traveling should know just in case.

Travel In Groups. It's alway a good idea to trick or treat in groups rather then solo because it is less of a chance one will get lost, be afraid or even worse kidnapped. Travel in groups of about five or six (bigger groups tend to have to more head count to make sure everyone is with them) and have a buddy system. It sounds old school but it is very efficient in the new school world. Never wonder off from the group alone and if you have to stop for whatever reason let the group know and your buddy should attend wherever your going with you ( don't worry this doesn't mean they have to hold your hand in the bathroom if that's your destination!)

Pick A Safe Location For Trick Or Treating. Lets faces as parents there are just some places we will not take our children in broad daylight! Some areas are just not safe and no matter how old they get we want to protect them. This Halloween make sure to pick a location that is safe when heading out for goodies with the kiddies.You will feel more at ease and less likely to want to cut trick or treating short which will make the little ones VERY happy.

Check All Candy Before Letting The Kids Eat It. It is very important to check all candy before letting the children dig in. If its open or looks like its been tampered with DON'T LET THEM HAVE IT!! If your trick or treating in areas your not familiar with be extra careful. If its candy with writing you don't understand through it away. Your child could be allergic to an ingredient in it and you won't know until its to late and he/she has a bad reaction.

Custom Originality. When picking a custom be sure not to have the same costume as to many other children. this will cause confusion when trying to keep an eye on your own. Depending on the age children should NOT wear mask if too many have the same costume. its not only a confusion problem its also a safety hazard as some young kids can hurt themselves.You want to always be able to pick your offspring out the crowd no matter how big or small.

Dress Right. Though you are suppose to wear a custom dress right! if it's cold ( as it should be since it is fall) cloths and jackets are a necessity. You don't want them to be sick because of one day! little ones should avoid too many snaps and zips as this may make it difficult when its time to use the bathroom. This rule should also apply to their costume. The younger the child the less difficult the costume should be.

Driving Safety. If driving remember to drive alittle slower as you will have people in the streets. keep your lights on so those walking are sure to see you.

Follow this guide and 1stClassLadies are sure you and yiur mini me's will be sure to enjoy this Halloween!!

FASHION FRIDAY

 

                  "anyone can get dressed up and glamorous,

            let us see what you can do with a tee"

 

                                                             -Katrina 1stclassladies

 

 

 

 

 

Throughout the years of fashion there is always a specific article of clothing or an accessory trending.  This article of clothing is a must have in your wardrobe.  Like every girl should have that one pair of just right fitted jeans or that oh so right shoe!!  Well.....we're paying homage to some DOPE designers who have taken the basic "tee" and turned it into the must have item!!!

 

CUPCAKE MAFIA

 

 

Talk about a dollar and a dream, well the 5 founders of this clothing line brand CupCake Mafia have turned this saying into reality.  With a small office space, 30$, and 300 tshirts their dream has evolved into fashion success.  Who can resist their tees, amongst other pieces full of vibrant colors, dope designs, and logos that will make any female sream "Thats Me"!!! ie: "Too Many Bakers, Not Enough Cake", "Loved by Few Hated by Minnie", "Not Minnie Have My Style"!!  The list goes on and on with much to choose from!!  Behind this clothing line is also what it represents and the mission these women are on.  That is "the everyday woman "CupCake" looking to make her mark in a uniform world through dynamic and expressive visual self-expression".  We here @ AplateofThisACupofThat are all for women making their marks in this world and CupCake Mafia has done just that with more to come!  Not only do they have a huge fan base across all social networks,  their items are sold in 50 states and also Japan. CupCake Mafia can be seen worn by many women making their mark such as Lashontae Heckard (BET The Game), Rapper Kreyshawn, Tameka "Tiny" Harris, and many more.  Every "Cupcake" has a sweet note and these girls have it to the Tee!!  They donate twenty percent of their proceeds to the Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Foundation among other cancer related causes. With all the Good's in this clothing line they'll have you saying "For Sweet Sake" in no time!!

 

Shop CupCake Mafia http://cupcakemafiats.bigcartel.com/

 

 

 

 

IHEARTKISSES

 

 

 

As much DRAMA as women stir up nowadays, its such a refreshing vibe to feel from the clothing line IHEARTKISSES.  Who might IHEARTKISSES be, make you ask???  Well just look for those ever so trendy, punch lined, sweet yet straight to the point tee's, tanks, and sweaters being worn all over!!  We're talking ALL OVER, just ask the female parading down the street with her "F<3CK DRAMA" sweater paired with some jeans and sneakers or even the female in the party rocking the "KISS MY KISSES" tank with some pumps! The line screams DOPE  and so is the designer Sony herself!  Having moved from California to New York she took her creativity, concept of a flirty brand, and use of her favorite word "KISSES" to build a great brand!!  We salute her, and her, as she would say "EDGY & SWEET" style to the world of fashion!!  We will be seeing so much more from her!!!

Shop IHEARTKISSEShttp://www.iheartkisses.com/

 

 

 

 

 GIFTED APPAREL

 



What do you get when you mix an "Anti Diva" who has the "Good Stuff" who "Loves Thy Hater" "Work, Party, Repeat" and "Viva La Brooklyn"???  You guessed it.....Gifted Apparel!  Our favorite three men behind this brand are doing us females great justice with their ever so trendy tees, tanks, and sweaters.  Be sure to stay tuned for what they have in stored this Falll!!!!!

SHOP GIFTED APPAREL

http://giftedapparelnyc.bigcartel.com/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

SPICE IT UP FOR THE FALL!

"just because its

Fall doesn't mean

 your love life has to fall"

 

-Katrina 1stclassladies

 

 

 

Welcome Fall!!  Say goodbye to the warm weather, picnics outdoors, swims in the pool, half naked or even nude on the beach!!!  Just because the weather is changing and some activities wont be an option doesn't mean you cant spice up your love in other ways!!  Here are some ideas from us.

 

DINE IN

During this fall when you cant go out to eat bring it in!!  Instead of dinner out, try preparing a romantic dinner for the two of you.  Set the table with candles and rose pedals, pull out your best China, some smooth music, and surprise your mate after a long days work!!

VACATION

If your able to do so take your mate on a romantic get away!!!!  What better way to escape the weather here then to travel to another location where the weather is warm and the sun is bright!!

WALKS IN THE PARK

The most romantic thing you can do in the fall is taking a nice walk around some beautiful scenery either day or night!  This will give you and your spouse a romantic feel and also time to talk and share thoughts.  Not to mention cuddling, hand holding, and plenty lip locking!!

HOME EXPLORING

While the cold temps will bring you two indoors.  Who's to stay there isn't things you can't explore there!!  Take the time to explore each others passionate sexual fantasies using fun sex games and toys!!!

 

FOR EXTRA NECESSITIES

 

WE RECOMMEND

 

BABELAND

http://www.babeland.com/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



Music updates

"Music is the shorthand of Emotions"

- Leo Tolstoy

1stClassLadies have introduced to our supporters some of today's best underground talent within the past year. From rapper to singers both males & females we gave you the real deal. All of these people were from different places with different stories but all had one ultimate goal- for their talent to be heard and recognized for what it was-DOPE! Just like some of you 1stClassLadies  were wondering what some of them were up to and what moves had the made in order to make that goal a reality.  Check out the update on two of our most requested updates as we reunite for a quick 411 catch up! 

Last time we chatted with 1StClassladies  little brother Richlowe, he was on the rise to the top and couldn't anyone stop him. Well we couldn't be more happy to say that NO ONE has!! Recently signed to Def Squad records, Richlowe is in the process of working  on his album titled "Mr. Incredible." Richlowe has more say in the direction of his music then most artist have as he writes and produces every song on his own. What other task does the young talent have at hand you ask? How about starting his own production company with his adopted brother B Sharpe called FosterBrother production. You can see his most recent work on YouTube as Richlowe just debuted his new video " U Dat B*t*h." Continue the success brother and as you would say " you can only go up from here!"

1stClassLadies couldn't do an update without informing the public on one of our favorite and most humble features. We are talking about that of Cortez. He's good looks and charm my woe the ladies but its not what got this serious lyrist to the top. Hard work and dedication is responsible for that and is what keeps this star on the rise a lot. Aside from battles Cortez has been exposing his talent in shows all over the tri state area. The latest creation added to his belt is his single release "heartbreaker" which 1stclassladies had the pleasure of attending its release party. Produced by Mighty Fuzz Young & features Oun-P this song is the talk of the entire east coast. Of course the highley raved mix tape the XXL " Im in a class all by myself" is in heavy rotation and starring up a lot of talk. This mix includes countless features including 1stClassladies feature DChambers as well as seven videos. " the response from the public has inspired me to work on my next project."  and just what might that be you ask? Cortez is working on his debut album tilted "The Exception." No better name for a person who makes sure to self him self apart from the rest of the game. With all that's going on Cortez has not forgotten about his people or where he came from. He is doing an EP with heavy hitter producer 5th Seal call " The Classic"- Mrytle.  " This project is an ode to my neighborhood. The old El line rumbling over head.....what depicted Mrytle Ave and dubbed it Murda Ave."  fans can get a piece of Cortez for free as copies of "16's & Better" will be disturbed. Get a look out what's to come next. All 1stClassLadies have to say about that is TOMA!!!!


TOP 5 VIDEOS

ENJOY!!!

FEISTY FLAVORS

 

Whats food without

Feisty Flavors??

-Katrina 1stclassladies

 

 

 

 

 

They always say you've got a great thing when finding a woman that can quote on quote "throw down" in the kitchen.  Well ladies and gents the product of that is exactly what you'll get from the chef of Feisty Flavors Cindy Thomas!!  Some might think, looking from the outside, that being a great chef is as easy as just cooking.  That's where you have to separate the beginners from the advanced.  Having been inspired by her uncle (who was also a chef), Cindy's creativity from young led her to the culinary field as a way to express herself and talents.  Being in a field that is very competitive, Cindy is definitely bringing her "Anything you can do I can do better" game.  Alongside her recipe for who she is in her profession, is her vivid imagination, willingness to take risks, and a strong business sense.

What is Feisty Flavors might you ask??  Feisty Flavors is a catering of Nouveau Caribbean with Asian, Latin, Italian Fusion.  Cindy has discovered a knack for taking old favorites and turning them into elegant dishes that blow her clients away when being presented for many events!  Dishes such as Herb Roasted Chicken with steamed Veggies and Cheddar Biscuit, Grilled Salmon with Mango Cucumber Salsa and Coconut Rice, Mac Attack, Shrimp Lo Mein, BBQ Salmon and Rasta Pasta, just to name a few mouth watering cuisines. 

You will be seeing much more of Feisty Flavors as Cindy has accomplished much in her career and much more to come.  She has been put on camera for an Internet cooking show, catered for a many private events and affairs including this one pictured below "We Run the Night" with celebrity guest speaker "Love and Hip Hop" Emily B!!  Look out for her upcoming collaboration with wine expert Charles Springfield.  This will be a wine and food tasting held at Manhattan's Serendipity Wines!!

There is a male dominance in the field of cooking but its just like Cindy says ".....but being the feisty creature that i am, i just fight my way through, its going to be hard to stop me"!!  From the chef to aspiring chefs "I would say to be aware of competition, but don’t be consumed by it. Take risks, think outside the box…you’ll be surprised at what you can do. Most of all, stay positive and humble…no matter how talented you are, you have to have a good attitude…it will take you very far.  We couldn't agree more!!!!!

CONTACT CINDY

www.feistyflavorscatering.com

(718) 404 8931

INSTAGRAM: FEISTYFLAVORSCATERING