Lavender Design + Cuisine: 2025

Friday, October 3, 2025

Simple Christmas Table Ideas | Centerpiece and Place Settings

The holiday table is a blank canvas, and it doesn't matter if your guests number one or ten—the goal is to create a setting that feels celebratory and inviting. Before you rush out to the stores, take a fresh look at what you already own. You might be surprised to find that a festive and memorable table is just a few creative touches away.

So, let’s get started!

Select color themes - One of the first things to establish before creating your table design is the color palette. Choose 2-3 colors max. Then you’ll want to choose serve-wares, textiles, decor and foliage that work within the color theme you’ve chosen.

Consider scale - Do not overcrowd your dining table. Choose everything based on the size of the table, number of chairs and guests.

Apply contrast to create interest - If your tablecloth is white or a neutral color, use tabletop items that are bolder in color such as different shades of green and red.

Incorporate various heights - By incorporating elements with varying heights, you create variety, interest, depth and dimension in your dining table decor.

Make your table vibrant - Use fresh flowers, foliage, fruits and even seasonal vegetables on your table to provide texture and color.

Create a center piece - A centerpiece can be a winter greenery with shiny red berries, flowers and candles (avoid scented candles, they’ll interfere with your foods’ aroma).

Most of all have fun with your table set up and don’t hesitate to ask family and friends to help, not only they’ll have great ideas, but also can contribute by providing flowers, greenery, etc.

Wishing you a holiday season full of incredible flavors and happy moments!

Ellie Lavender
Certified Feng Shui Practitioner
Interior Designer
Lavender Design + Cuisine

Join my network on Facebook & Instagram to receive Feng Shui & interior design tips and information on upcoming workshops!

Saturday, September 6, 2025

Clutter and why controlling people think they know best?

Controlling people believe they know best due to deeply rooted insecurities, a need to feel adequate, and a lack of self-awareness or exposure to diverse perspectives. Their need for control often stems from fear, anxiety, or an inflated sense of self-importance, leading them to believe that imposing their will is for others' own good.

Additionally, for many controlling people, the desire to dictate situations and other people's actions is a coping mechanism for their own internal fears and anxieties. By controlling their environment and the people within it, they create a false sense of security and predictability.

Here's how to effectively deal with controlling people, focusing on immediate and clear actions:

Limit the information shared. The less a controlling person knows, the less leverage they have.

Keep composure. Controlling people often want an emotional reaction. By remaining calm, their tactics are disarmed and it's demonstrated that you are detached.

Walk away to preserve your own physical and emotional health. It's incredibly hard to emotionally and physically detach from controlling family members, especially when you live with them. The best approach is to manage the situation by detaching yourself to the best of your ability.

As a reminder. Yes, there's a strong connection between clutter and control, with two main links: clutter can cause feelings of being out of control, as a disorganized environment increases stress and anxiety, making it harder to manage daily life. Conversely, a desire for control can lead to hoarding and clutter, where people may accumulate possessions as a way to feel secure or manage perceived threats.

In summary, to maintain your emotional well-being, concentrate on what is within your control - your own life. An effective method for this is to declutter your own matters and detach from the responsibilities and behaviors of others, a practice that is challenging but achievable.

In essence, Choose Your Own Peace of Mind.

Ellie Lavender
Certified Feng Shui Practitioner
Green Interior Designer
Decluttering & Organizing Expert
Lavender Design + Cuisine

Join my network on Facebook & Instagram to receive recipes and information
on upcoming chocolate, culinary & wine pairing classes, and special events!

Tuesday, August 26, 2025

Simple & Practical Feng Shui Enhancements for the Entryway!

In Feng Shui, the entryway is the ‘mouth of Chi,’ essential for attracting positive energy, abundance and prosperity. Keep it clean, clutter-free and welcoming to enhance the flow of positive energy throughout your home. This includes ensuring the entryway is well-lit, visually appealing and reflects atmosphere of beauty, vitality and abundance.

Here's a breakdown of simple and practical Feng Shui enhancements:

Clutter-Free: Remove any clutter, both inside and outside, that obstructs the path or creates a sense of unease.

Cleanliness: Keep the entryway spotless, including the front door and surrounding areas.

Welcoming Elements: Add a welcome mat, a beautiful door knocker and potted plants to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Natural Light: Ensure the entryway is well-lit, either naturally or with bright inviting lights.

Artwork and Mirrors: Strategically place artwork that depicts positive imagery or mirrors that reflect light and energy, but avoid placing mirrors directly in front of the door as they can deflect energy.

Natural Elements: Incorporate a simple and soothing water feature to promote vitality and balance.

Door Functionality: Ensure the front door opens fully and is in good working condition, as it represents the flow of energy into the home.

Keep in mind that enhancing your living environment, both inside and out, is a gradual and creative process. You should embrace and have fun with this journey toward a more beautiful and harmonious home.

Ready to create your dream home? Whether it's a complete sanctuary transformation or a fresh dose of inspiration you're after, contact me today to start the conversation.

Ellie Lavender
Certified Feng Shui Practitioner
Green Interior Designer
Decluttering & Organizing Expert
Lavender Design + Cuisine

Join my network on Facebook & Instagram to receive recipes and information
on upcoming chocolate, culinary & wine pairing classes, and special events!

Tuesday, July 29, 2025

Exquisite Plant-Based Mediterranean Culinary Experiences!

Plant-Based Niçoise Salad

Greetings Foodies & Wine Lovers,

Long before my amazing career at Silicon Valley, a deep-seated adoration for exquisite plant-based foods ignited my creative spark, meticulously honed from early childhood. This inherent artistry was then turbocharged by two decades navigating the competitive landscape of high-tech sales, imbuing it with unparalleled strategic prowess! I now apply this strategic mindset to my culinary pursuits, which are deeply influenced by the vibrant cuisines of France, Italy, Spain, and Morocco.

Farm-to-Table Plant-Based Culinary Services:

Personal & Group Culinary Journeys: French, Italian, Spanish Cuisine Personal chef and catering up to 10 guests.

Private In-Home Cooking and Wine Pairing: Elevate your culinary skills and explore the world of wine pairing with my exclusive in-home classes. Perfect for individuals, couples, or small groups of up to 10.

Culinary Team Building and Corporate Cooking Classes: Engaging activities to foster collaboration, communication, problem-solving, team morale, and creativity within a corporate setting.

Public & Exclusive Winery Events: Plant-based Mediterranean Tapas, Artisan Chocolate, & Wine Pairings.

Take the first step towards a more delicious life, contact me!

Chef Ellie Lavender
Plant-Based Mediterranean Personal Chef
Culinary & Wine Pairing Instructor
Event Caterer
Lavender Design + Cuisine

Join my network on Facebook & Instagram to receive recipes and information

on upcoming chocolate, culinary & wine pairing classes and special events!

The Connection Between a Cluttered Home & Controlling Behaviors!

Clients frequently inquire about the connection between a cluttered home and controlling behaviors. The answer is yes, a cluttered home can be linked to controlling behaviors.

Living in a disorganized environment can cause stress, anxiety and a feeling of being overwhelmed, potentially leading individuals to try to exert control in other aspects of their lives, including relationships. This need to regain control may manifest as controlling behaviors towards others.

While decluttering can be beneficial, it's essential to recognize that controlling behaviors often stem from complex underlying issues like insecurity, fear, past trauma or learned patterns. Individuals may resort to controlling tendencies to manage anxiety, insecurity or a sense of powerlessness. Addressing both the physical clutter and these underlying emotional factors can be a crucial first step in addressing controlling behaviors.

Clients also often wonder why it's so challenging to let go of unused or disliked items. Three primary factors contribute to this difficulty:

Loss Aversion: People are often more sensitive to potential losses than equivalent gains. The fear of needing something later or an emotional attachment to an item can make discarding it challenging.

'Just in Case' Mentality: Many individuals keep items, even if unused for years, believing they might be needed in the future, particularly when there's a fear of waste or perceived future needs.

Hoarding Tendencies: Excessive clutter can sometimes indicate hoarding disorder, characterized by an inability to discard possessions, leading to distress and daily life problems, including a strong need to oversee and control others' actions.

Decluttering extends beyond simply tidying up and promotes a shift in perspective. It encourages prioritizing emotional liberation rather than a desire to control external factors or others.

Clients consistently express a profound sense of physical and emotional release after decluttering their homes. They often report being more attuned to the positive aspects of their lives, feeling less judgmental and genuinely more content.

Ellie Lavender
Certified Feng Shui Practitioner
Green Interior Designer
Decluttering & Organizing Expert
Lavender Design + Cuisine

Join my network on Facebook & Instagram to receive recipes and information
on upcoming chocolate, culinary & wine pairing classes, and special events!

Friday, April 25, 2025

Declutter Your Home: Clear Space, Clear Your Mind!

Clear Space, Clear Your Mind

Reducing clutter minimizes distractions, allowing your brain to concentrate on more important tasks at hand. The act of organizing your space can also provide a sense of control and order, which can alleviate feelings of stress and promote a sense of well-being.

Are you unsure whether Clutter is affecting your life? Take this Clutter Assessment Quiz to find out whether Clutter is holding you back from living a more Happy and Prosperous Life:

1. Do you often find yourself in a state of avoidance, procrastination or indecision?

2. Do you feel at ease and welcomed when you walk in to your home?

3. Do you often think about clearing your home but somehow can't ever bring yourself to do it?

4. Do you have trouble figuring out what to wear even though your closet is full of clothes?

5. Do you have piles of books, magazines or newspapers you have never read and probably never will?

6. Do you save broken items just in case someday you may fix them?

7. Do you keep things that you don’t need or use just because they were a gift?

8. Do you have a spare room or garage that you can’t use because it’s full of stuff from you, your grown children and others?

9. Do you have a house and garage plagued with unfinished projects?

10. Do you own a shed/storage unit on your property or rent one elsewhere?

If you answered ‘yes’ to 50% or more of these questions, your home is experiencing a moderate-severe degree of Clutter!

The fact is decluttering and organizing can save you countless hours by creating an organized, efficient home. With less clutter, you'll spend less time on chores and more time on activities that bring you joy.

Client’s Testimonial: ‘Ellie helped us to declutter, organize and Feng Shui our whole house, which was neglected for many years! Once, we declutterd, organized and applied Ellie’s creative and inspiring interior design’s solutions, our house was transformed into a beautiful home, a place of joy, comfort and relaxation. The two areas, which needed the most decluttering and organization, were our children’s bedrooms. The immediate positive impact became apparent when we stopped asking our 9 year old daughter and 12 year old son to do their homework, pick up their things, stop arguing, etc. Pleasantly, we noticed our constant nagging had turned into praising them for keeping their bedrooms clean and doing their homework. We are also delighted that every Saturday morning they bring their dirty clothes basket to the laundry room and empty their trash cans, which have helped to keep their bedrooms clean and organized. Our daughter and son are now much happier and calmer. They also sleep better, argue less, and are more focused on their school work. For this amazing transformation and so much more, we can’t thank you enough, Ellie!’ Cathy & Steve , Almaden Valley

Ready to transform your space and your life? If you, your family, or your friends are feeling overwhelmed by clutter, I can help. With my comprehensive decluttering, organizing and Feng Shui services, I offer more than just a tidy home—I provide the inspiration and guidance needed to create a harmonious and supportive environment.

Let's connect and begin your journey toward a more balanced life.

Ellie Lavender
Certified Feng Shui Practitioner
Green Interior Designer
Decluttering & Organizing Expert
Lavender Design + Cuisine

Join my network on Facebook & Instagram to receive recipes and information
on upcoming chocolate, culinary & wine pairing classes, and special events!

Plant-Based Recipe: Tartine Végétale Salée (Savory Vegetable Tartine)

Tartine Végétale Salée

(Savory Vegetable Tartine)

Roasted Sweet Pointed Peppers

Greetings French Cuisine Lovers,

The Tartine is a beloved staple of French cuisine, often enjoyed for a simple breakfast or light lunch. This versatile, open-faced sandwich is proof that delicious food doesn't need to be complicated. With Ttartine literally translating to 'bread with something on it,' the possibilities are endless and can be adapted to any craving—from sweet spreads like butter and jam to savory creations layered with creamy cheese and fresh herbs.

You’ll love making and enjoying this roasted-caramelized-to-perfection colorful Sweet Pointed Peppers — my inspiration for this gorgeous and delicious Tartine Végétale Salée.

Tartine Recipe (serving size 2)

Ingredients:

4 Sweet Pointed Peppers or 2 large orange & red bell peppers
4 Garlic cloves
2 Slice of sourdough, wholegrain or any other bread to your liking
1 Tsp. Cappers
6 Cherry Tomatoes halved
1/4 Tsp. dried herbes de Provence
3 Tbsp. Olive Oil

Instruction:

1.Preheat the oven to 400F

2. Wash, pad dry peppers, remove the core and seeds. Next slice the pepper into 2 inch strips horizontally, toss them in 2 tbsp. olive oil and 1/3 tsp. sea salt, then lay them on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3. Place garlic cloves in double sheets of aluminum foil, drizzle 1 tsp. olive oil, a sprinkle of sea salt and wrap them tightly.

4. Roast peppers and garlic gloves for about 30-45 minutes (depending on your oven temp., they may get roasted in 30 or 45 minutes, so, check the peppers after 30 minutes, garlic most probably will need 45 minutes, so you can leave those to be roasted more). Let pepper cool for 15 minutes, then thinly slice them and roll them into a spiral shape to make rosettes. Next remove garlic shell.

5. Toast your favorite bread, place it on a plate, arrange peppers, halved cherry tomatoes, roasted garlic, capers, add fresh herbs such as oregano, drizzle olive oil, a sprinkle of herbes de Provence & sea salt and enjoy! Perfect by itself, with double shots of espresso or a glass of Pinot Noir or Chenin Blanc.

Bon Appetite!

Chef Ellie Lavender
Plant-Based Mediterranean Personal Chef
Culinary & Wine Pairing Instructor
Event Caterer
Lavender Design + Cuisine

Join my network on Facebook & Instagram to receive recipes and information

on upcoming chocolate, culinary & wine pairing classes and special events!

Monday, January 27, 2025

Plant-Based Recipe: Simply Divine Chocolate Hummus

Decadent Chocolate Hummus Appetizer Plate

Chocolate Hummus in a Jar - Decadent Valentine's Day Present

Photo 1

Photo 2

Greetings Chocolate & Hummus Lovers!

Indulge in this uniquely flavored hummus, which combines the earthy sweetness of roasted rainbow carrots with the warm spice of garam masala and the richness of cocoa. You can enjoy it a variety of pairings, including cookies, crackers, sliced apples, pears, oranges, carrots, radishes and much more.

So, let's get started with the recipe!

Ingredients (serving size 6):

1 Bunch rainbow carrots
1 Can (15 oz.) chickpeas, drained, rinsed and pad dried with paper towel
1 Tbsp. cocoa powder (unsweetened baking cocoa)
1/4 Tsp. garam masala spice
2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 Tsp. orange zest
1/4 Tsp. sea salt
1/2 Cup fresh orange juice
1 tbsp. grand marnier (optional)

Instructions:

Carrots: Prepare the carrots by peeling, washing, and patting them dry. Next, slice them into 2-inch diagonal wedges. Combine the carrot wedges in a bowl with olive oil and sea salt, then toss thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated.

Roasting: Roast the carrots in a preheated 450°F oven for 25 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a Pyrex pan. After roasting, let them cool for 30 minutes.

Hummus: Add the roasted rainbow carrots, chickpeas, cocoa powder, garam masala, orange zest, and orange juice to a food processor. Process the ingredients until a smooth, creamy consistency is achieved, thinning with additional orange juice if necessary.

Serving: Transfer chocolate hummus in a bowl and garnish with orange or blood orange slices and a few rose petals and enjoy it with sliced carrots, apples, pears, crackers, almond cookies, and much more!

Chocolate Hummus is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that even kids will enjoy. For a special Valentine's Day treat, package this rich and indulgent dip in a jar to create a delicious homemade gift for loved ones.

Wishing you a delicious Valentine's Day!

Chef Ellie Lavender
Plant-Based Mediterranean Personal Chef
Culinary & Wine Pairing Instructor
Event Caterer
Lavender Design + Cuisine

Join my network on Facebook & Instagram to receive recipes and information

on upcoming chocolate, culinary & wine pairing classes and special events!