Make This Your Best Ever Thanksgiving Tablescape

November, 19, 2020

This year, Thanksgiving may feel a bit different. Your get-together may be a little smaller and more intimate. This does not mean you can’t still make it memorable and festive with some creative Thanksgiving table decor ideas and tips. You might prefer a traditional feel, minimalist touch, rustic farmhouse, or perhaps glam accents call your name. Use these easy to pull off tips for your gathering.

Set the Table Using What you Have

You don’t have to buy anything new, though holiday decor shopping is always fun, to design an eye-catching Thanksgiving table setting. A good starting point is with basic dishware, white or any solid color, then add contrast with dark or printed napkins. Pick a color scheme for dishes and decor and start getting creative.

Pumpkins and Greenery

Have leftover pumpkins from October? Those can be perfect for your centerpiece or accents to top off your plates. Keep them natural, or paint them your preferred color to match your decor. Add some glitter or gold to your pumpkin if you are looking for a more luxurious look. Add in some green leaves to offset natural or minimal looks, or use some pinecones. Pinecones can also easily be painted your desired color for a fresh look.

Set The Mood- Lighting

Simple candles, whether on their own or in a holder are a quick and easy way to add to the centerpiece. And if you are looking for more light, twist in some string-lights within your centerpiece. Quick tip, use unscented candles to get the right light without interfering with the delicious meal, and use LED lights that won’t heat up around your decor.

Crave-able Centerpiece

If food is absolutely at the center of your gathering, a charcuterie board can make a great and delicious addition to your tablescape. Choose your favorite meats, cheeses, fruits, and crackers to create a visually appealing appetizer piece. Spruce this up with some jam, honey, or chocolate to add a sweet accent.

Can’t Forget About the Kids

It is easy to forget about the kid’s table. That said, kid’s Thanksgiving table decorations don’t have to be too kitschy or complicated. An inexpensive roll of craft paper stands in for a tablecloth— little ones will love that they can doodle on their placemat before dinner, and your clean up will be a breeze. If you’d like to take it one step further, you can download templates of name cards, straw toppers, and menus, so setting the cutest table is as easy as printing and placing.

We would love to hear how you and your family are celebrating this year! Let us know below.

Cocktail and Food Pairings to Spice Up Thanksgiving

Many people are facing scaled-back holiday celebrations this year, and we see this as a great opportunity to add a few new special touches to the day. These crisp fall cocktails and tasty food pairings will be sure to make your Thanksgiving memorable.

Apple Cider Mojitos

Mojito’s do not have to stop when summer does, a little apple cider turns this into the perfect fall refresher. Mint + cider may sound strange at first, but it ends up very refreshing. A small tip – to make it even more Autumnal, try rosemary or thyme instead of mint.

Mojito Recipe Here

Suggested Pairings

Cheese & charcuterie board, with that fresh taste, this would be great paired with an appetizer

Chips, crackers, and light dips (salsa, hummus, etc.)

Turkey dinner, the refreshing mint twist pairs well with poultry.

Spiced Mexican Hot Chocolate

What is the Holiday season without hot chocolate? With this recipe, cinnamon sticks and a splash of bourbon will change the way you look at hot cocoa for good. We recommend enjoying this cocktail with dessert.

Spiced Hot Cocoa Recipe Here

Suggested Pairings

Best to stick with sweet treats for this recipe

Peppermint bark

Shortbread or sugar cookies

Pecan pie

Apple Cider Sangria

Another spin on a summer drink, this spiced and sparkling punch made with apple cider, brandy, and a splash of Prosecco packs big flavor with fresh lemon, ginger, orange bitters, and sliced seasonal fruits.

Cider Sangria Recipe Here

Suggested Pairings

Turkey dinner, the fresh fruits help this pair well with poultry

Spinach and artichoke dip

Fresh baked apple pie

Cinnamon sugar dusted doughnuts

Mulled Cider

Of course, the colder weather calls for a comforting hot cider. This spiked version is easy to make and budget-friendly to serve at holiday gatherings. The cider base can be prepared beforehand and refrigerated up to 2 days — when ready to heat, simply add the rum of your choice.

Mulled Cider Recipe Here

Suggested Pairings

Appetizers, especially any with beef or pork

Pigs in a blanket

Bacon wrapped dates

Marinated or breaded mushrooms

We would love to know if you try any of these recipes, and what you think of them. Leave a comment below!

Enjoy Fall | Support Local

October, 21, 2020

October 2020

This fall season is looking a little different this year. And with Halloween right around the corner, it can seem tough to get into the spirit. Thankfully, many local events are still happening, with some just modifying to fit safety guidelines this year. Take a look at our list of activities you can enjoy this month!

Family Halloween Train Ride: Sunol-Niles | October 25

Come aboard and join in for a scenic October railroad trip through Niles Canyon. Goblins, ghouls, and ghosts are also welcome aboard for this special October train ride. All round trip departures only from Sunol Depot. Departure times: 10:30am and 1:30pm. Trains depart on time.

Full event information here

Pirates of Emerson Haunted Drive-Thru Halloween: Pleasanton | Now through November 1

Located in the Alameda County Fairgrounds. Join them for the fright and fear in the 10-acre compound at the Pleasanton Fairgrounds. Normally a walk-through event, this year will be a drive-through, where you can enjoy the fun and stay safe!

Full information here

Local Pumpkin Patches | All month long

Most local pumpkin patches are still open for business this season. explore safely outdoors, and practice social distancing while you pick out the perfect pumpkin and enjoy other fall activities!

For top rated local pumpkin patches click here

Virtual Halloween with Alamo Cemetery: Danville | October 22

If staying home is your preference, Danville will be celebrating the Halloween season but not with ghosts and goblins rather with a tour and history of the Alamo Cemetery. 

“Get into the spirit with a virtual tour of the Alamo Cemetery on October 22 at 11:30 AM.”

Full event information here

Full List of Local Events

CLICK HERE

Change of Seasons | September Market Reports

October, 15, 2020

Our Real Estate Market Report for September 2020 is here! The real estate markets have continued to see increased activity in both states. These reports highlight important market data and trends for the California Tri-Valley and surrounding cities as well as the Big Island of Hawaii during September 2020. Venture Sotheby’s International Realty is open for business and continues to utilize technology to operate at the highest levels. Links to the full reports are below.

Click Here for Full Hawaii Market Report

Click Here for Full California Market Report

End of Summer | August Market Reports

September, 22, 2020

Our Real Estate Market Report for August 2020 is here! While restrictions have been changing almost weekly in both states, the real estate markets have continued to see increased activity. These reports highlight important market data and trends for the California Tri-Valley and surrounding cities as well as the Big Island of Hawaii during August 2020. Venture Sotheby’s International Realty is open for business and continues to utilize technology to operate at the highest levels. Links to the full reports are below.

Click Here for Full Hawaii Market Report

Click Here for Full California Market Report

Summer Market Heating Up

August, 17, 2020

Our Real Estate Market Report for July 2020 is here! While restrictions have been changing almost weekly in both states, the real estate markets have continued to see increased activity. The California East Bay continues to see low inventory and properties are receiving multiple offers. These reports highlight important market data and trends for the California Tri-Valley and surrounding cities as well as the Big Island of Hawaii during July 2020. Venture Sotheby’s International Realty is open for business and continues to utilize technology to operate at the highest levels. Links to the full reports are below.

Click Here for Full Hawaii Market Report

Click Here for Full California Market Report

For Your Outdoor Enjoyment | Venture Home

August, 13, 2020

In the Tri-Valley

Mount Diablo State Park

Any resident will tell you that California has it all. The Golden State comprises a booming technology scene, world-famous wineries, family-friendly amusement parks, stunning ski resorts, nine national parks, and a variety of landscapes. From its beaches to forests to deserts, California has it all.

Zoom in to the Tri-Valley area of Northern California, which includes Pleasanton, Dublin, Livermore, San Ramon, and Danville. This region represents California’s limitless choices, especially when it comes to its nature scene.

In this article from our current Venture Home magazine edition, you will find full information on the park with the best panoramic views – Mount Diablo, the park that will get you your best workout – Mission Peak, the park best fit for families – Sycamore Valley, and more destinations to fit any desired activity.

CLICK HERE to read more

Introducing Venture Home | California

August, 7, 2020

Venture Sotheby’s International Realty is proud to introduce the first issue of Venture Home | California. Our e-magazine is filled with extraordinary articles that highlight the best that the Bay Area has to offer.


Venture Home | California showcases our services, relocation guides, area information and so much more. Readers can also explore beyond the Bay Area and discover life on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Your Guide to Relocating

Read Venture Home to discover local information on schools, medical services, moving and packing tips, and much more. Our team delivers a successful relocation experience by providing local expertise and market knowledge, extraordinary area orientations for those looking to relocate to the California Bay Area.

Explore The Bay Area

The Bay Area is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in California. Venture Home explores the many outdoor adventure opportunities in the East Bay. From popular hiking trails to local wineries, reading Venture Home will help you plan your next great adventure.

Beyond the Bay

Explore our articles that introduce you to Venture Sotheby’s International Realty on the Big Island of Hawaii. Our Hawaiian offices represent some of the finest properties on the island. Discover all that makes the Big Island a welcoming, relaxing, and adventurous place to call home.

Click Here to Explore Venture Home

What to Expect While Buying and Selling Real Estate During COVID-19

July, 16, 2020

We are all living in uncertain times amidst this pandemic, and many of our lives have seen drastic changes. The real estate industry has experienced many of those changes in order to continue completing successful transactions during the Coronavirus outbreak. Homebuyers and sellers, as well as their agents, have adapted with new technology and protocols to help keep everyone safe during the buying and selling process. We have a list of tips below which will help your experience go as smoothly as possible.

Purchasing

As the real estate industry has “opened” back up, we have seen a dramatic increase in market activity. Currently, open houses are not permitted throughout most of the state, however, our agents are able to help buyers view potential homes in person. Listings can be viewed on a one-on-one basis with your real estate agent. The current CDC guidelines must be followed, which include, limiting the number of people in a home at one time and requiring face coverings while in the home.

Virtual property viewings have been growing in popularity. Many homes on the market now have listing videos, 3D virtual tours, and plenty of high-quality photos that can give you a good visual of the home, without having to physically visit the property.

Now more than ever, it is essential to have a trusted real estate agent guiding you through the COVID-19 real estate rules and regulations. These guidelines are often changing as we learn more about this disease, and your real estate professional must stay informed about the latest updates.

Selling

In today’s climate, selling a home may look a little different. However, Venture Sotheby’s International Realty has the tools and resources to help you successfully navigate through this time. As mentioned above, homes can be shown in person, as long as buyers follow CDC guidelines. If you are still occupying your home while it is on the market, there are a few ways to make this process easier for everyone. Try to keep all doors open and lights on, to discourage buyers from needing to touch these surfaces. Be sure to have disinfectant cleaners on hand so that buyers and their agents can easily wipe down any surfaces that may have been touched.

Our sales professionals have taken the Shelter-in-Place time to amp up their digital marketing efforts to continue to ensure maximum exposure for your home. We offer new digital listing brochures that give a virtual showcase for your property photos, information, website, and virtual tour links. These digital brochures can be easily sent to potential buyers. Our agents also have access to exclusive social media marketing, global exposure opportunities, a network of over 23,000 global sales agents, and all backed by the world’s most recognized luxury real estate brand, Sotheby’s International Realty®.

Venture Sotheby’s International Realty is here for you when you are ready to take that next step. Our experienced sales agents have the knowledge and expertise to help successfully guide you through your real estate journey. Contact us today!

June Market Moving Forward

July, 14, 2020

Our Real Estate Market Report for June 2020 is here! The real estate market in both Hawai`i and California continues to move forward during this uncertain time. As restrictions have been changing almost weekly in both states, the market is beginning to shift and activity is still increasing, notably in the number of properties going into escrow and closing. This report highlights important market data and trends for various cities during June 2020. Venture Sotheby’s International Realty is open for business and continues to utilize technology to operate at the highest levels. Links to the full reports are below.

Click Here for Full Hawaii Market Report

Click Here for Full California Market Report