Gift Giving for Newlyweds

Each year after Christmas, usually in mid-January, I start getting the calls. Young women calling to reserve Hightower Hall because they got engaged over Christmas and are now looking for a venue to celebrate their wedding day. It is always the bride-to-be that calls, or their mother. Never the guy. Has he turned over the reigns to his new love because it is expected? Is it just "her special day"? The usual cop out answer is "Just tell me where and what time to show up." So to make the groom more educated on the planning of the wedding, I sell a book called The Groom's Guide! It provides the groom with all the information he needs so he can have some educated input for their big day. By giving his input, he may avoid hiring an incompetent DJ, will be able to pick the correct style of tux for the ceremony, and will know who to buy gifts for and what the general flow will be of the ceremony and reception. It's a great little book just for him. He will be able to share in the decision making with his partner and it makes a special gift!

Speaking of books and weddings, I love to give cookbooks for wedding presents. I will give them something off their registry at the big box store if needed, but I like to make it personal too and give them a cookbook. If you watch this week's "What's InSTORE Fridays" segment  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZeaF65rEFqo&t=48s  I show you a great cookbook titled Southern Barbecue & Grilling. I demonstrate how to make a tasty appetizer that travels well and makes a pretty presentation as well. It is great for a cocktail party too! Including lump crabmeat, it reaches the sublime and your guests will be wowed! So when you think wedding gifts, think books, especially cookbooks. The happy couple will enjoy trying new recipes and think of you every time they use it. Are there special gifts you like to give to  newlyweds?  I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Smoked Crab Dip with Herbed Baguette Rounds

Herbed Baguette Rounds

1 French baguette, sliced into ¼ inch rounds

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives

½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning

Preheat oven to 350. Line a baking sheet with foil. Lightly brush the bread slices with the melted butter. In a small bowl, combine parsley, chives, and Cajun seasoning. Sprinkle over bread slices. Bake until toasted for 12 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool completely.

Crab Dip

2 8 oz. packages whipped cream cheese, softened

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

3 tablespoons chopped green onion

2 tablespoon Creole seasoning

1 tablespoon grated fresh Horseradish

1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce

2 teaspoons fresh Lemon juice

2 teaspoons Liquid Smoke

1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic

1 teaspoon ground Black Pepper

1 8 oz. container crab claw meat picked free of shell

1 8 oz. container jumbo lump crabmeat, picked free of shell

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and yogurt with a mixer at medium speed until smooth and creamy for about 2 minutes.

Add onion, shallot, Creole seasoning, Horseradish, and Worcestershire. Beat at medium speed until combined. Add Lemon juice, Liquid Smoke, garlic, and pepper, beating until combined. Using a spatula, fold crab into mixture. Serve with Herbed Baguette Rounds.

Enjoy!