Samantha's Event Pick-A Taste of Two Forks

This past weekend, I attended the first annual Taste of Two Forks in Bridgehampton. The night was a sold-out success with over 1500 food lovers wining and dining on samples from more than 40 restaurants and 20 vineyards from across Long Island. The event raised money for Have a Heart Community Trust. With so many places from which to sample, it was hard to pick a favorite! But there were definitely some that stood out to me. Here are some of my top choices that you should try...

The chardonnay from One Woman Vineyards was rich and delicious. It would definitely be a great bottle to impress someone with on a first date or to romantically share with your long-time beau. The Beachhouse served a savory fish ceviche with a citrus sauce that gave it an extra kick and zangy flavor. The tuna tartare from Savanna's was outrageous and would make a great dish to share on a date. Dessert is always a favorite at any event and Nick and Toni's did not disappoint with their fabulous dessert selection. For those with a sweet tooth, Dylan's Candy Bar created a booth full of sugary delights to take home including large lollipops and plastic bags where you could grab your own penny candy selection to make your own goody bag.

The delicious food and drinks that were served all night gave people something to talk about and provided excellent icebreakers for all the single people in attendance. I saw lots of people mixing and mingling with new friends and old; you could tell that everyone was very happy with what they were tasting and that a great time was had by all.

Samantha's Beauty Pick-Go for the Gold

This summer, smoky eyes are taking on a sun-kissed twist. Instead of using dark shadows to create a sexy look this season, use a gold shadow for a sultry daytime or evening look and you will attract all the men. This trend looks perfect on anyone on a date; the key is to finding the right shade for your skin tone. Ebony and olive skin tones are best paired with dark metallics similar to a bronze color while fair skin looks stunning in a light, yellow gold. Use a gold color to line just your bottom lid, highlight your brow bone or on your entire eyelid paired with dark mascara. My favorite is MAC's Goldmine. It stays on all day and night so you won't have to worry about reapplying. The best part is that splurging for this eyeshadow won't make a hole in your pocket. To really brighten your look, rub a little bit on your cheeks and lips to look extra healthy and beautiful especially when you are at the beach frolicking in the sand with a new love interest.

Samantha's Summer Couple Pick-Sizzle or Fizzle?

Everyone deserves to be happy and find love again after a tough divorce. Tiger Wood's ex-wife is doing just that. Elin Nordegren has been seen with a mysterious man but, now his identity is finally revealed...Jamie Dingman, a wealthy investor and son of a billionaire. Elin was spotted enjoying a cozy rendezvous with her then-unidentified honey at her apartment in Stockholm. A friend confirmed that Jamie has never been so happy and they have strong feelings for each other. Luckily, he isn't into golf! Do you think Elin has finally found somebody to treat her right? What do you think? Will this new fling sizzle or fizzle?

Samantha's Book Pick- Exciting Beach Read

Women, Work and the Art of Savoir Faire

Best-selling author Mireille Guiliano does it again with this insightful guide to navigating the working wold, living the life you want to live and cherishing every minute of it. Although this book is old, every women should pick it up and read it if they have not already. In this book, Mirelle draws on her personal experiences in the business world to give women realistic advice that will lead them to making work a part of a well-balanced life. With energetic and vivid lessons and anecdotes, she teaches every reader to identify her own passions, improve her communication skills and balance work with everything else to lead to a happy and successful life. The quirky stories and feel good nature of the book will leave you feeling happy with yourself and ready to conquer any challenges that lie ahead.

Samantha's Dating Thought-Avoid the Baby Blues

This past week, it seemed like every celebrity had a baby! Over the weekend, David and Victoria Beckham welcomed daughter Harper Seven into the world while Kate Hudson and finance Matthew Bellamy gave birth to a baby boy. Yesterday, Jewel and husband Ty Murray welcomed a baby boy named Kase. Of course, a couple is always so excited when they welcome a new child into their family, but what I always wonder is if they remember that they have to keep their marriage and love alive at the same time as they are adoring their new baby?? Here are a few tips so you and your honey don't suffer from the baby blues...

1. Plan multiple date nights. Leaving your newborn at home may be the last thing you want to do in the early months of giving birth. However, once your new baby develops some steady sleeping habits, take that time to do something with your honey. You don't have to go far or have an extravagant date; just get out of the house for a little with only the two of you. Make it a habit to have one date night a week, whether you go out to dinner, catch a movie or just take a stroll around the neighborhood, make sure it is just you and your beau. If you are nervous about hiring a babysitter, keep in mind that grandparents are always eager to take care of their new grandchild.

2. Take turns. It is important to alternate who gets up when the baby cries during the middle of the night or who will get to have their girl/guys night out each week. By taking turns, you will relieve some of the stress on your partner and vice versa. When you both feel more stress free and get an extra hour of shut-eye, you will see that appreciate what your partner has done for you, which will keep your marriage strong.

3. Help each other. Although starting and raising a family is hard work, there is nothing more enjoyable. Couples should work together to raise their family. Sharing this experience together will make you love and appreciate your partner so much more. You should do small things to show how much you appreciate your spouse-helping them make their favorite dinner, buy them flowers, write a card, etc.

4. Have fun with sex! Remember what it used to be like before the kids? The spontaneity and excitement of sex with your spouse? Well don't let that disappear! Keep things fun and alive. Just because the kids are around, doesn't mean you have to stick to the "same old same old" routine. If you are having trouble, get away for the weekend! Leave the kids with a babysitter and hit up your favorite weekend vacation spot with your honey so you remember what it's like to truly appreciate and love one another.

Samantha's Event Pick-Love Heals

This past weekend in the Hamptons was one of the biggest party weekends of the summer because Love Heals held their 12th Annual Benefit at Luna Farms in Sagaponack, NY. Over 600 people showed up including a host of celebrities, all to benefit this amazing cause. Love Heals, the Alison Gertz Foundation for AIDS Education, empowers young people in the fight against HIV. Since its launch, the foundation has reached more than 400,000 young people across the NYC metropolitan area. All proceeds raised at the event were donated to this cause to raise awareness and gather more people in the fight against HIV and AIDS.

The Coney Island theme had everyone involved in carnival-like activities like skeeball and ring toss where  gigantic stuffed animals were the big prizes. There was a photo booth set up by Patron which was my favorite thing of the evening because it made you look like you were on a roller coaster with people screaming in exhilation. Party hits spun by DJ M.O.S had everyone dancing the night away including Russell Simmons, model Hilary Rhoda and hockey player Sean Avery. The party was an absolute blast and Love Heals should be proud of all of the foundation's amazing accomplishments.

Samantha's Movie Pick-Friends With Benefits

Friends With Benefits

Most of the time, a "friends with benefits" relationship never works out because someone always ends up falling in love. One of the summer's most sizzling flicks follows just this story-line starring sexy duo Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis. The pair give it a go at this type of "no strings attached" relationship. The trailer and even the videos on the Friends With Benefits website will leave you laughing out loud, so check out this movie to see which sexy star falls in love with the other! Whether you are seeing it with a date or your gal pals, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Samantha's Dating Thought-Get Active Together!

Summer is the perfect time to do outdoor activities with your honey. And even if you are not  the "outdoorsy" type,  how about a round of mini-golf on a warm, summer night? Mini-golf is a fun activity for getting to know each other and catching up with your special someone, whether it is a first date or you are in a long-term relationship.

 If it's a date and you are a little nervous, bring your friends along; mini-golf makes for a great group date as well! It's okay if you aren't a real pro like Phil Mickelson at this game because your man will just appreciate that you are making the effort. Plus, the really bad shots make for some great laughs that the two of you can share all the way home.

Samantha's Summer Couple Pick- Will they sizzle or fizzle?

This couple fizzled once before but now they are at it again, in hopes of making it sizzle. Since their break-up in March, sexy stars Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel kept in touch, trying to remain on good terms. Well, now the terms are even better and the once 'off' couple is very much back 'on' again. Multiple reports say the couple is trying to reconcile out of the public eye. But this past holiday weekend, the pair spent quite some time together in Toronto, where Biel is on set shooting a new movie. Will they make it last this time? Or will their relationship fizzle out once more? What do you think?

Samantha's Dating Ponder-Does Fear and Uncertainty Make People Fall in Love?

Ever find yourself cuddling real close with your cutie when you're watching a scary movie? This could be because when people are frightened, they seem to bond and want to be closer to that special someone to seek protection. NBC is taking this dating thought to the extreme in the new series, Love in the Wild. This new dating show gathers 20 sexy and single contestants in the Costa Rican jungle in hopes to find true love. It is too soon to tell whether this new series should be set to automatically record in your DVR each week, but the concept is truly entertaining and really makes you think; does fear make people bond and fall in love? What do you think?

Samantha's Dating Tips- Your ex or not?

Rumor has it that Pippa Middleton and boyfriend Alex Loudon are back together after reportedly splitting shortly after the Royal Wedding in April. Have you been thinking about trying to get back together with your ex like Pippa? Here are a few tips if you are...

1. Don't fall into old patterns: Make sure you both really believe things will be different this time around and you won't fall back into old patterns. The last thing you want is for your relationship to be exactly the same as it was the first time you two were together with the same problems arising.

2. Take things slow: You can't rush love. Take things slow and don't hurry right back into a full-fledged relationship. There is a reason why things ended badly the first time around. Take time to work out all your issues so during the second go around, your bond will be much stronger.

3. Make sure you are getting back together for the right reasons: Think about the other aspects of your life and make sure you are getting back with your ex for the right reasons. Rekindling an old relationship will not solve all of your other problems. It is not beneficial to get back with an old flame just because you are lonely or because things aren't going well at work. Before getting serious, make sure you are getting into a relationship with your ex because you actually want to be in a relationship with that person and not for some other reason.

Samantha's Dating Ponder- Can You Travel Together?

Holiday weekends are always a good time to have a romantic getaway with someone special. However, if it is the first time that you are traveling with your new significant other, I can understand how you might have "travel jitters."
 Here are a few tips to help enhance your weekend away and to prevent any unnecessary bickering.

1. Keep in mind that when you're traveling with someone, you are with them 24/7. As a result, its okay to give each other a little bit of breathing room each day of the trip, so that the time you are spending together is more special.

2. A weekend away is a marathon, not a sprint, so don't feel pressure to try to satisfy all your curiosities about your partner the moment you leave home.

3. During the course of the weekend, you are, invariably, going to discover something about your new beau that doesn't float your boat; however, don't  jump ship too quickly. It is better to let the weekend play out, wait until you return home to think back on the weekend and analyze your true feelings.

4. Don't be self-conscious about having your honey see you au natural. Keep in mind, he/she is already digging you for who you are, that is why you are spending the weekend together.

5. Most importantly, have fun!!

Samantha's Book Pick- Steamy Beach Read

Fake Perfect Me

Cari Kamm's first novel features Isabella Reynolds, a party girl who lives a life of luxury in New York City. For most people, she seems to live the perfect life; she has a rich, Italian boyfriend, lots of fabulous friends and started her own successful skin care line. As you read on, cracks appear in the surface of Isabella's seemingly perfect life. Isabella learns the truth that nobody is perfect and nobody can have it all. Isabella's experiences represent something to which every reader can relate. Once you pick this book up, it will definitely be hard to put it down!

Samantha's holiday picks---4th of July

Summer's biggest holiday celebration is right around the corner. Instead of the typical backyard barbecues and family reunions, why not spend the long weekend away from everything with your significant other? Here are some getaways and activities that are sure to get your mind off of work and right into play mode.

Washington D.C.
The National Mall, the historic monuments and the nation's Capitol Building creates the perfect backdrop to celebrate our country's independence. Celebrating this holiday is an all day event in the nation's capital and is one of the most visited regions in the country on this holiday. DC’s 4th of July Parade starts at 11:45 a.m. and features marching bands, military and specialty units, floats and VIP's. The parade draws a large crowd, so plan to arrive early to stake out a good viewing spot. The National Archives celebrates the 4th of July with special family programming celebrating the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Visit the National Archives Building for this special birthday party from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. A 4th of July tradition in the nation's capital includes a live concert by the National Symphony Orchestra and several pop artists performing patriotic music on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Building. The concert and show is followed by a spectacular display of fireworks over the Washington Monument. The concert is free and open to the public, so cozy up with your honey and enjoy the show.

The Hamptons
If you're a couple looking to party this 4th of July, the Hamptons is your hot spot. Kick off the holiday weekend with Hamptons Magazine and Hugo Boss at AXE Lounge at Dune on Friday Night. On Saturday, perhaps enjoy a luxurious massage with your beau at Westhampton Day Spa
before hitting the beach to soak up the sun. At night, celebrate our Country's independence and the re-opening of the new Saturday hangout, Bamboo. On Sunday, sit back for a moment to enjoy the beautiful fireworks display together near Montauk village. Be sure to get there early if you want a good view!

NYC
While many couples will flock to the beaches, there is also plenty to do back home in New York City. Beginning at approximately 9 p.m. on Sunday, Macy's releases fireworks from six barges in the Hudson River. This year's theme is The Gift of Freedom marking the 125th anniversary of the Statue of Liberty, as well as the 235th birthday of the United States. To thoroughly enjoy the view, there are plenty of extravagant dinner cruises you can enjoy together. Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises provide passengers with a front row seat of the fireworks show for an affordable price. If you're in the mood to splurge, check out Hudson Terrace. Tickets sell out fast so book soon for a romantic yet fun way to spend your Independence Day.

Samantha's Celebrity Single Pick of the Week-He's Back!

Every woman's dream became a reality on Wednesday when George Clooney announced to the world he was single again. After two years together, Clooney and Italian model Elisabetta Canalis finally split. Sources say that the pair were constantly bickering in the months prior to the break up. While Canalis is a firm believer in marriage, Clooney promised he would never get married again after his marriage failed with actress Talia Balsam, perhaps another contributing factor to the split. In a joint statement on released by the pair on Wednesday, they asked that everyone respect their privacy. But will we ever know what really happened? So ladies, America's favorite bachelor is on the prowl again. Who do you think he will pounce on next?

Samantha's Summer Couple Pick- Will they sizzle or fizzle?

Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux

Ever since her marriage ended with Brad Pitt in 2005, Jennifer Anniston's dating life has been in the spotlight more than any other celebrity's. Her romantic rap sheet includes hotties such as Orlando Bloom, Gerard Butler and bad boy, John Mayer. Jen had everyone buzzing last week when she stepped out with new beau Justin Theroux, an actor, writer and director. They were first seen together in March when Jen was spotted visiting Theroux at the Chateau Marmont in L.A. But more recently, the pair hit the town looking like a couple at the MTV Movie Awards on June 5th. Has Jen finally met someone who will keep her happy? Will she finally be out of the public's eye or with all the attention put strain on the relationship like others in the past? How long do you think this will last? Will Jen's fling finally sizzle or end up in just another fizzle?

Samantha's Dating Thought- Amuse Each Other!

The best dates are ones that last for hours and hours, where both of you never stop laughing. For a full day filled with summer sun and tons of fun, visit an amusement park to enjoy the thrilling rides, exciting games and entertaining parades. My favorite amusement park to visit for a day is Six Flags Great Adventure. The park gets busy fast, so make sure you leave early to beat the lines. They also always offer coupons for a free entry during the week or half-price tickets on the weekend. With a date at an amusement park, you and your honey will never get bored! Challenge each other to go on the scariest rides together. See who can make the funniest face in the photos snapped during the rides. This type of date is guaranteed to leave you smiling all day long and will turn into an adventure you will never forget!

Samantha's Summer Couple Pick- Will they sizzle or fizzle?

Blake Lively and Leo DiCaprio

New couple alert! Sexy stars Blake Lively and Leonardo DiCaprio were first spotted in late May hugging on a yacht during the Cannes Film Festival. A week later, they were spotted snuggling again in Portofino, Italy. After a European adventure, the pair returned to the states for a fun-filled journey to Disneyland. But did the couple pose just so Blake could avoid her latest nude picture scandal? What does Leo think of the pics? Will this couple sizzle or will the scandal lead to a fizzle? What do you think?

Samantha's Dating Thought-Romance at the Zoo

In an age when dinner and movie dates are the norm, it is hard to come up with fun date ideas to keep your relationship exciting. One of the best summer date ideas is spending a day at the zoo. You get to enjoy the warm, summer sun together while admiring and learning about all of the exotic animals you may have never seen. While the Bronx Zoo has a larger variety of animals to admire, the Central Park Zoo offers adult programs where you can eat breakfast with the birds and take photography and painting classes, all while spending time with your honey. Learning about new things with your date is a really great bonding experience so, plan ahead and enjoy all the activities the zoo has to offer!

Samantha's Summer Couple Pick- Will they sizzle or fizzle?

Pippa Middleton and George Percy


Pippa Middleton stepped into the spotlight when she became Maid of Honor to sister Kate Middleton during the royal wedding this past April. With an impeccable sense of style and underrated sexiness, Pippa has been dubbed "Her Royal Hotness." Pippa brought long time beau and at the time, finance, Alex Loudon, as her date to the wedding. Loudon, a corporate finance and development analyst for beer brewing company SABMiller, and Pippa reportedly split after the wedding because of Pippa's new high-profile lifestyle. However, she has been spotted with ex-college-boyfriend, George Percy, son of the Duke of Northumberland. Pippa and George were spotted in Madrid after the wedding and just this past week, she was seen leaving his apartment early one morning after a night out to dinner. So, is Pippa single or already back with a friendly ex? Could there be another (Dutch) royal wedding in the Middleton family's near future? What do you think? Will this relationship sizzle like it once did or fizzle out yet again?