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From Rare to Well-Done: Mastering the Best Way to Grill a Steak

Tom Sargent — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 10:51:33 +0000

What’s the best way to grill a steak? It depends on who you ask. Everyone’s got a different opinion about how to go about it and how cooked it should be. Admittedly, grilling steak can be intimidating, especially if it’s your first time, but it’s actually a straightforward process once you nail down the basics.

Explore the nuances of grilling a steak to perfection, from selecting the proper cut to monitoring doneness levels, and unlock a world of flavor and tenderness in every bite. Here’s the best way to grill a steak.

Ingredient Notes

First things first, you’ll need to sort out the ingredients for your steak dish. The most important things to gather are:

Steaks: Grill masters recommend choosing steaks that are 1.5 – 2 inches thick, though slightly thicker is better than slightly thinner, as thick cuts help retain juiciness and ensure even cooking.
Olive oil: You need a high-heat oil to create a beautiful sear on the steaks. Feel free to substitute olive oil with vegetable or canola oil as you see fit.
Seasonings: Generally, you want to keep things simple and let the flavor of the meat itself shine through. Some salt, black and white pepper, and any other seasoning of your choice should suffice.
Butter: A stick or two of butter helps add juiciness to the steak’s crust. It also prevents the meat from drying out during cooking.

Choosing the Best Cuts for Grilling

You will usually find three grades of beef steak in a typical supermarket: Select, Choice and Prime. This grading is assigned based on the intramuscular fat marbling of the meat and helps identify its juiciness and tenderness when cooked.

Select is the leanest of the three, meaning it will most likely dry out during grilling. You’re better off going for Choice or Prime grade steaks, as they have adequate marbling to undergo the fiery process and still come out juicy.

For the cuts, you’ll find several options:

Filet Mignon: Filet is prized for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate flavor. Thanks to its lower fat content, it’s also less likely to cause flare-ups.
Sirloin: The lean nature of sirloin steak makes it an excellent choice for health-conscious consumers. It also boasts a distinctive flavor profile that differentiates it from other lean cuts.
Ribeye: These ultra-flavorful steaks are the ideal choice for grilling. The ribeye’s higher fat content helps keep the meat juicy even when cooked over very high heat.
T-Bone and Porterhouse: These cuts offer a combination of textures and flavors. Keep an eye on the bone though, so it doesn’t cause uneven cooking.
New York Strip: This cut is not the most tender steak, but people love it for its great bite and flavor. The lower fat content means there are fewer flare-ups during grilling.
Flank and Skirt Steak: The thinnest and often leanest of the bunch — these cuts are perfect for quick grilling.

Preparing Your Steak

Nailing the prep stage is essential to achieving a perfect cook. For starters, you want the steak to reach room temperature for at least 30 minutes before putting it on the grill. Next, pat the meat dry with paper towels. This will remove all moisture and allow for a nice sear. Continue patting it until you see no more moisture coming off.

Seasoning the steak comes next. The type of cut will likely determine how you approach this step. Generally, you want to coat the meat in a thick blanket of kosher salt, pepper and garlic powder. Feel free to add other seasonings, but be careful not to overdo it, as too much can overpower the flavor.

If you’re using leaner meats, it might be best to marinate the steak instead. The lower fat content of these cuts means they require an extra helping of wet seasoning to bring out the flavor profile. To make the marinade, start with olive oil, then whisk in something fresh like herbs and citrus and sweet like honey or maple syrup.

Grilling the Steak

Fire up your grill and make sure it’s nice and hot. The best way to grill a steak is to use direct heat — over the flame. This is what gives the meat that beautiful dark char. Place the seasoned steaks on the grill and let the fire do its work.

The type of cut generally determines how long you let the meat cook before flipping it. For a one-inch steak, grill each side for 3–4 minutes, depending on the desired doneness. Thicker steaks can tarry on the grill a bit longer, especially if you don’t plan on using indirect heat to finish off the cooking.

Once a side is golden brown and slightly charred, flip it and let the other side cook. Avoid flipping the steak too frequently — aim for just once to ensure even cooking. Use tongs instead of a fork to prevent piercing and losing juices.

When grilling steaks, temperature is more important than time. Grab your digital cooking meat thermometer and insert it into the thickest part of the meat, making sure to avoid the bone and fatty areas.

Monitoring Doneness

Keep in mind that while you can always return a steak to the grill if it’s not cooked enough to your liking, you can’t undo it if it’s overcooked. That’s why it’s important to monitor the level of doneness carefully. Follow this guideline:

Rare: 125°F to 130°F
Medium-rare: 130°F to 135°F
Medium: 135°F to 145°F
Medium-well: 145°F to 150°F
Well done: 155°F to 160°F

After you remove the steak from the grill, its internal temperature will continue to rise. Experts recommend taking the meat off when it reaches about 5˚ lower than your desired temperature to get that perfect cook inside and out.

The Thumb Test

If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you’ll have to measure the level of doneness by hand. Don’t worry, it’s a straightforward process. Lightly touch your thumb to your index finger and feel the fleshy area.

Rare steak should feel soft with little to no resistance, almost like you’re touching raw meat. Medium-Rare should feel soft yet firmer with a bit of resistance. Medium-Well and Well-Done are generally firm with very little give when pressed.

Resting and Serving

This is the final step and potentially the most critical. After being on the grill for several minutes, your steaks need to rest so they won’t lose as much juice when cutting into them.

Culinary expert Martha Stewart recommends letting your steaks rest for half the time you used to cook them. So, if you cook the meat for 16 minutes, let it rest for 8. When resting your steaks, make a little aluminum foil tent around them so they don’t cool down too quickly.

Should You Grill Steak on High or Medium Heat?

You want to start with high heat to give the steak that flavorful char. Make sure your grill temperature is between 450°F and 500°F before placing the meat.

How to Keep Steak Juicy on the Grill

The best way to keep your steak juicy during grilling is to use tender, well-marbled meat. Ribeye, T-Bone, Porterhouse and Filet Mignon are usually the ideal choices for achieving the perfect balance between juiciness and flavor.

Master the Best Way to Grill a Steak

The secret behind the best way to grill a steak is that there really is no secret at all. As long as you pay attention to these guidelines and best practices, you’re well on your way to becoming a grill boss in no time.

The post From Rare to Well-Done: Mastering the Best Way to Grill a Steak appeared first on Modded.

Deadpool’s MCU Premiere: How Does Deadpool & Wolverine Fit Into the Marvel Cinematic Universe?

Jack Shaw — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 13:46:24 +0000

The long-awaited third installment of the Deadpool trilogy finally hit theaters, bringing the indestructible Merc with a Mouth into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. As the first Deadpool MCU film, questions will likely arise about how the iconic character fits into the picture and what it means for the franchise.

The answers are right here. Fair warning, though — there will be minor spoilers, so make sure you’ve seen the movie or don’t mind the direct references before proceeding.

A Long Time Coming

Deadpool’s MCU debut is one that Marvel mavens have looked forward to for years. Amid rights ownership barriers with FOX, fans have had to wait 16 years since the first Marvel Studios film in 2008 to see Wade Wilson in the same cinematic universe as the Avengers.

The smashing success of Deadpool 1 and 2 set the expectation bar high for Deadpool & Wolverine. With a 4-star rating out of 5 by The Standard, an 8.3/10 from IMDB and a 97% Audience Score on Rotten Tomatoes, it’s safe to say the movie was a hit.

It already made over $38 million in Box Office previews a day before the official release and is projected to set the record for the highest R-rated film opening.

When Does Deadpool & Wolverine Occur in the MCU Timeline?

The movie answers this question early on when we see a throwback of Wade meeting with Happy Hogan about joining the Avengers. That was on March 18, 2018, which was slightly before the events of Deadpool 2 and a few months after Thor: Ragnarok in the MCU. Fast forward to six years later would place the current timeline of Deadpool & Wolverine to March 2024.

At this point, Deadpool has tucked his red-black spandex away and is now making a living selling used cars. However, the Time Variance Authority (TVA) sets events in motion by invading his timeline and informing him of the impending wipeout facing his universe on account of Wolverine’s demise in the 2017 film, Logan. It turns out Deadpool and that Logan were in that same universe.

The Deadpool MCU Convergence

The simplest way to understand the relationship between the FOX-owned X-Men universe and MCU films is to view them as coexisting timelines in one giant multiverse. Being a renowned temporal regulation agency in the MCU, the TVA’s involvement effortlessly introduces Deadpool’s timeline into its universe.

Until now, the prevailing theory was that Wade Wilson would traverse the multiverse using Cable’s time travel device, which we used liberally in Deadpool 2. Other theories suggested one of the countless powerful X-Men mutants would rip a hole in the time-space fabric, allowing the merc and his merry band of misfits to travel through.

In hindsight, the TVA is a more elegant bridge for this purpose because its role and abilities are already well established. Plus, it would save the studio the hassles of introducing a new mutant with such powers, especially when Deadpool & Wolverine already has a huge lineup of top-tier FOX cinematic characters.

Where It Gets Complicated

As much as we relish seeing Hugh Jackman finally don the iconic yellow-blue Wolverine suit from the comics, the movie producers have some explaining. The events of Logan occur in 2029 — 5 years after what transpires in Deadpool & Wolverine. Now, that makes no sense since Logan’s death supposedly draws the TVA’s attention to Deadpool’s universe. So how can he be dead long after the movie takes place?

To make it even more confusing, Wade digs up Logan’s body, finding it super decomposed. This confirms that he has been long dead in 2024 when the movie in which he dies is in 2029. The most plausible explanation at this point is that both stories happened in different timelines within the same universe.

Deadpool and Wolverine Have a Long History in the Comics

It’s easy to see why Deadpool and Wolverine make such natural allies in the Marvel comics — they share loosely similar backstories and powers. They’re both ex-soldiers and experimented upon in the Weapon X project. They also possess powerful healing factors, though Deadpool’s is more potent.

Wade and Logan first appeared as adversaries in the early comics but became frenemies, sharing a love-hate relationship over subsequent years. Their first encounter ended with Wade throwing a grenade at Logan. In one issue, Wolverine teamed up with Deadpool to take down a Shi’ar Stalker robot hunting Jean Grey.

Audiences saw both characters in film for the first time in 2009’s X-Men Origins: Wolverine. However, this version of Deadpool had no 4th-wall-breaking capabilities and was just an incessant talker — far from the witty, psychotic jester we came to love in later iterations. Eventually, he had his mouth sewn shut as part of the experiments conducted on him.

Funny enough, this Deadpool was killed twice — first beheaded by Wolverine in that movie and second by the current version of Wade Wilson in Deadpool 2.

Marvel’s Messianic Superhero?

Let’s face it — the Marvel Cinematic Universe has been pretty much a snooze fest lately. The movies and TV shows after Avengers: Endgame have been largely unimpressive, as evidenced by their abysmal Box Office earnings. The sheer quantity slated for release diluted the essence of the brand. Most felt unnecessary with weak storytelling, while others featured one too many undertones of politically correct culture to be regarded critically.

In fact, it’s because of all the backlash that Deadpool & Wolverine is the only Marvel movie scheduled for 2024. Disney finally took the hint and revamped its approach to get back in the fans’ good graces.

Deadpool’s MCU debut may just be the catalyst for reviving interest in the franchise. In the movie, the character even refers to himself as the Marvel Jesus. At the moment, it’s too soon to tell if those words will become reality, but the potential appeal is undeniable.

All three Deadpool movies have been solid, setting screens alive with Ryan Reynolds’ humorous portrayal of the titular character. They’ve also cultivated a massive following through the years, which can breathe new life into the MCU’s tired fanbase.

How Does Deadpool’s Integration Impact the Next MCU Movies?

As with any superhero movie discussion, all kinds of possibilities exist, more so in the multiverse saga.

If upcoming films take inspiration from the comics, it would be particularly interesting to see a recreation of the issue in which Deadpool goes toe to toe against Thor or teams up with Captain America and Wolverine.

The impact extends to the actors and audience, too. For instance, Reynolds’ Deadpool could mean abundant X-rated jokes at Disney’s expense — for Jackman, a prime opportunity to explore new depths of Wolverine and for MCU fans, more Deadpool appearances.

This collaboration could also extend beyond the movies. Several Marvel video games, including Avengers, Spiderman and Wolverine, have received stellar ratings and could benefit from a Deadpool inclusion in subsequent installments.

The Deadpool MCU Premiere Is Finally Here

Though years in the making, Deadpool and Wolverine have officially joined the MCU, bringing a fresh wave of sarcastic repertoire, 4th-wall breaks and gory mutant violence. These may just be what the Marvel multiverse needs to break out of its slump and genuinely engage audiences again.

The post Deadpool’s MCU Premiere: How Does Deadpool & Wolverine Fit Into the Marvel Cinematic Universe? appeared first on Modded.

Equip: Top 12 Barbecue Essentials

Jack Shaw — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 13:33:00 +0000

Warmer weather means it’s time to fire up the grill and invite your friends over. Before the cookout starts, you need the right barbecue tools and accessories to make your crowd happy. What takes your party to the next level? Here are the 12 barbecue essentials you need.

1. Genesis E-325 Gas Grill

Your party starts with your cooking method, so the Genesis E-325 gas grill is one of your barbecue must-haves. This large machine has an excellent burner system to provide even heat for your food. Take advantage of the extra-large sear zone and cook multiple steaks together. After all, your boys need lean steaks for muscle growth and tasty summer dinners.

Get it from Weber

2. Alpha Grillers Grill Set

You need something besides your hands to handle the meat, so get the Alpha Grillers Grill Set for your barbecue tools. This kit includes a spatula, basting brush, tongs and fork that are safe enough for the grill. These accessories work regardless of whether your barbecue grill is gas, charcoal, electric or propane. Each tool contains stainless steel to reduce the risk of rust.

Get it from Amazon

3. ThermoPro TP-17 Dual Probe Digital Cooking Meat Thermometer

Cooking meat includes bringing each piece to the proper internal temperature. For example, experts recommend 145 F for steaks and chops at your barbecue. How can you ensure safe food for everyone? You need a meat thermometer from ThermoPro. This device flashes when it reaches the temperature you set, and the backlight provides an excellent display at night.

Get it from Amazon

4. Asaya Chef Products Chef Apron

A solid chef apron is among the barbecue must-haves for serious grillers. This garment shows you mean business as you prepare steaks, chicken and vegetables for your crew. Asaya Chef Products’ apron is terrific for barbecue masters by giving you utility loops and a bottle opener. The apron is also durable and can handle the grill’s hot temperatures.

Get it from Asaya Chef Products

5. Grillaholics Bristle-Free Grill Brush

When you’re finished cooking, it’s time to dig in and eat. However, cleaning products are barbecue essentials to maintain the grill year-round. This bristle-free brush from Grillaholics gets the job done with 18-inch handles and a triple-helix design. Removing the bristles means your brush easily scrapes stubborn food remnants and lessens the risk of getting caught in the grill.

Get it from Grillaholics

6. Man Crates Smokehouse BBQ Sauce Sampler

Do you put sauce on your barbecued meat? Unless you live in Texas, the answer is likely yes. Man Crates’ Smokehouse BBQ Sauce Sampler is one of your cookout essentials because of the variety in each pack. The flavors include tequila pineapple, spicy sriracha, sweet garlic and other classics. While some are unique, the sweet and savory sauces round out the bunch.

Get it from Man Crates

7. Jasonwell Inflatable Ice Buffet

Your party should have enough ice to keep the drinks cold all day. The Jasonwell Inflatable Ice Buffet is excellent for beers, sodas and other beverages you want to chill. You can even place fruits and vegetables in the cooler to keep them fresh and flavorful. The ice buffet is over 4 feet long and fits in the pool for easy access. You don’t have to leave your float for a drink!

Get it from Amazon

8. Sonos and Sonance Outdoor Speakers

While food and drinks are critical, ambience determines the mood. Play music and keep the energy high with a good set of speakers. A robust sound system is also essential for playing movies on projectors. These outdoor speakers from Sonos and Sonance are compact and powerful enough for outdoor use. You also get a weatherproof system built to resist humidity and high temperatures.

Get it from Sonos

9. TIKI Brand Weather-Resistant Homespun Bamboo Torches

Tiki torches are another excellent moodsetter for your barbecue. These homespun bamboo torches from Tiki Brand make your yard look like a tropical island. Use them for outdoor lighting if your cookout extends past sunset. Their bug-repelling capabilities also make them barbecue essentials. Pour the BiteFighter fuel into the torch to keep insects away from your cookout.

Get it from TIKI Brand

10. Wilshire Heights 7-Piece Outdoor Dining Set

Comfortable seats are another way to keep your guests comfortable throughout the day. Metal and plastic are fine for temporary seating, but you need something softer. This Wilshire Heights outdoor dining set has seven pieces suitable for a lovely dinner. The CushionGuard Plus fabric is easy to clean and resists stains and fading. Relax in the chair while the kids swim in the pool.

Get it from Home Depot

11. Crown Shades Canopy Tent

While forecasts give you a hint, weather professionals can still be wrong about storms. Experts say hurricane season runs from June to November, so your party needs protection from surprise showers. This canopy tent from Crown Shades is ideal for any outdoor tailgate because it’s easy to set up and take down. You even get a sidewall to shield yourself from incoming rain.

Get it from Amazon

12. Eastpoint Deluxe 2’x3′ Cornhole Toss Game Set

Games are barbecue must-haves, so bring out the footballs and baseballs for summer fun. What takes your cookout to the next level? You need this cornhole game set from Eastpoint Deluxe. This red, white and blue-themed game has eight bean bags and two deluxe toss boards with reinforced corners. Attach the boards for easy packing and transportation.

Get it from Target

Gathering the Barbecue Essentials

Food is central to your barbecue, but you need tools, games and accessories for a fun day. Ensure your guests’ comfort with good seating, music and tasty beverages. Your friends and family will remember how awesome your parties were long after they’re over.

Want to make the most of your new grill? Check out our summer grilling ideas to ensure you have the best summer cookout around.

The post Equip: Top 12 Barbecue Essentials appeared first on Modded.

The Ultimate Brew Brawl: Craft Beer Vs Draft Beer

Jack Shaw — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 15:25:04 +0000

The craft beer vs. draft beer debate has been raging for some time now. In today’s society, where everyone seems to care so much about labels, understanding the differences and similarities between the two can help you make informed decisions about which one to indulge in.

What Is Craft Beer?

Put simply, craft beer is an artisanal beer made by a small, independent brewer. According to the Brewers Association, a brewery may be considered small if it produces less than 6 million barrels of beer in a year.

To meet the “independent” tag, the craft brewer must own at least 75% of the brewery while the remaining 25% is owned by a beverage alcohol industry member who produces non-craft beer.

How Is Craft Beer Different From Regular Beer?

Craft beer has several distinguishing characteristics. First, it’s a custom-made brew with a keen focus on quality and craftsmanship. That means its production is driven by innovation and the brewer’s personal inclination. Because it is produced on a smaller scale, craft brewers can experiment with different techniques, mixtures and flavors to make the beer stand out.

Ingredient selection is another crucial distinction between craft beer and regular brews. Artisanal brewers prioritize the finest local ingredients in their recipes. They use a generous amount of malted barley for a full-bodied flavor and often experiment with different grains like wheat, oats or rye for that extra depth. As a result, craft beer is usually characterized by rich and complex flavor profiles.

If you prefer your beers to have a little or a lot more kick, then you’ll definitely love craft beers. These beverages are known for their higher alcohol by volume (ABV) content compared to their mass-produced counterparts. Where most regular beers typically have an ABV ranging from 4% to 10%, craft beers can have an ABV of up to 67.5%, which is the case for Snake Venom — the world’s strongest beer.

Craft Beer in the United States

Modern craft beer in the U.S. has come a long way since homebrewing became federally legal in 1978. Before then, individuals experimented with various brew recipes and methods, subject to state regulations.

The last few years have seen a massive surge in the popularity and demand for craft beers thanks to staunch support from beer lovers. As of 2022, there were 9,552 U.S. craft breweries, including 261 regional facilities that produce various styles of beer. This means you don’t have to look far to find a variety of delicious small-batch brews anytime.

What Is Draft Beer?

Draft beer refers to any type of beer stored in a cask or a pressurized steel keg and served from a tap. The containers used to store draft beer come in a variety of sizes — 5, 20 and even 50 liters — to accommodate large crowds and home consumption. Think college parties and pubs.

Why Is It Called Draft Beer?

The word “draft” originates from the old English word “dragan,” which means to draw or pull. Many countries, including Australia, Ireland and the UK, pronounce and spell it as draught, with the meaning staying the same.

Although draft beer is produced similarly to bottled or canned beer, aficionados know there is a distinct difference. Draft beer typically has a crispier, full-bodied, and bolder palate profile. This is because storing the booze in a pressurized keg protects it from the degrading effects of oxygen and ultraviolet light. The storage method ensures the beer stays fresher for longer and has a fresher taste than its bottled counterpart.

What Is the Difference Between Craft Beer and Draft Beer?

Armed with the history of these beverages, let’s delve deeper into the craft beer vs draft beer discussion. Understanding these differences can help you choose the brew that suits your preferences.

Brewing Method

Craft Beer is produced in small batches by independent breweries using a wide range of techniques as determined by the brewer. Draft beer is brewed using traditional methods and stored in large barrels or kegs.

Brewing craft beer is a labor of love, with the brewer’s personal touch evident in every sip. Draft beer brewing, on the other hand, tends to follow mass-production standards. That’s why experts often say any craft beer can be a draft beer, but not all draft beer is craft beer.

Ingredients

Craft beers incorporate high-quality and locally sourced ingredients, whereas draft beers typically use standard brewing components.

Flavor and Varieties

You’ll often find craft beers in a wide range of complex flavors, from ghost pepper spicy to chocolate chip cookie sweet and even weirder profiles like whale testicles — yep, that exists. Draft beers tend to have a more consistent and crispier appeal thanks to their unique storage and serving methods.

Availability

Due to its small-scale production, craft beer is not as ubiquitous as draft beer. In many cases, you can only find certain craft beers in regions where they are brewed or in large stores. Draft beers are more widely available worldwide.

Is Craft Beer Healthier?

According to a recent study, craft beers may be healthier than their conventional counterparts thanks to their higher phenolic compound content. Further research is required to validate these claims, and should by no means be a reason to drink irresponsibly.

Similarities Between Craft Beer and Draft Beer

Despite their distinct traits, craft beer and draft beers share certain similarities that contribute to their overall enjoyment.

For one, they’re both known for their fantastic freshness and pleasant drinking experience. Craft and draft beers are typically carbonated and served at super-cold temperatures, so every sip feels refreshing. Lastly, while craft beers have a more comprehensive range of flavors and complexities, they’re both tasty beverages that anyone can enjoy.

Craft Beer Vs. Draft Beer: Which Is Better?

Choosing between craft beer and draft beer ultimately comes down to your personal preference. At the end of the day, beer is about indulgence followed by shared laughter and togetherness. Whether you’re sipping on a handcrafted brew rich with the flavors of its unique ingredients or relishing a cold crisp lager served from a keg, the joy of beer drinking remains the same.

So let’s celebrate this golden brew in all its forms. Let’s appreciate the artistry of craft beers, the consistency of draft beers and above all, the passion and dedication that brewers put into every batch. Each pint holds a new experience, so here’s a toast to beer in all its diverse glory. Cheers!

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How to Host the Ultimate Outdoor Movie Night

Oscar Collins — Fri, 10 May 2024 15:34:53 +0000

Looking for a fun way to hang out with friends and family this summer? You can’t go wrong with an outdoor movie night in your backyard. Enjoy the latest blockbuster or take in an old classic all from the comfort of your own home — and you won’t break the bank paying for tickets or snacks at the theater. Check out these tips on how to throw an outdoor movie night bash that everyone will love.

Establish the Basics

Before you invite guests over to kick up their feet and enjoy a flick on the silver screen, you have to set it up. That includes choosing the right location for your outdoor theater, the type of screen you’ll use and the best sound system.

Think about where you want to set up your al fresco theater. It often depends on the type of outdoor movie screen you have. Maybe there’s an obvious spot in your backyard perfectly suited for a big screen and enough seating for everyone.

Otherwise, you might have to get creative. Take your pick between inflatable screens, freestanding and portable metal frames or pull-down options. If you don’t want to splurge on equipment, you can find an affordable projector and hang up a white sheet on an exterior wall of your house.

However, if you know you’re going to host outdoor movie nights regularly, you might spring for a more advanced model. Projectors can cost anywhere from around $50 to a couple hundred or even thousands of dollars. Avid film buffs who want the best visual and audio quality can invest in higher-end projectors and sound systems that deliver a theater-like experience from the convenience of their own yard.

Source: Consumer Buddy

Set the Scene

Once you have the technical details worked out, you can focus on making your backyard theater your favorite place to hang out. You want to set the right ambiance for your outdoor movie night. That includes the proper lighting, seating and decor.

Lighting is important for any movie night, especially when you’re outdoors and have less control over natural light sources. Make sure you schedule your movie night for the right time of day, close to or after sunset — too early and the bright sun will make it hard to see the screen.

However, you don’t want to leave your guests totally stranded. Make sure there’s enough light in your backyard so people can walk around safely after dark. Consider using lanterns, string lights or other gentle, ambient light sources that illuminate the ground without throwing glare on the screen.

Since you’ll be spending a few hours sitting down, comfortable seating is a must. You can go casual with picnic blankets and pillows spread out on the grass, set up camping chairs or invest in patio furniture that doubles as comfy outdoor theater seats. A mix of options ensures everyone can get comfortable and enjoy the film.

Pick the Right Flick

Choosing the right film might be the most important part of a successful movie night. It all depends on your audience — you want something that will appeal to everyone.

Are you having family over, including little ones? Pick a family-friendly movie that has some laughs for everyone. Kids will love the novelty of watching a movie outside and the freedom to run around the yard if they get restless.

When you’re hanging out with a group of friends, you can’t go wrong with classic blockbusters, from your favorite comedies to exciting action movies or fantasy epics. Want a real thrill? Screen some underrated horror movies in October — or any time of year you’re looking for a good scare.

The film sets the vibe for the rest of the evening. Since you’re all there to have a good time, pick something fun. Unless you’re all devoted film fanatics, find a movie with a plot that’s easy enough to follow — people are likely to be socializing and getting up and down for snacks or bathroom breaks.

Provide Ample Refreshments

No outdoor movie night experience is complete without snacks and drinks. Fortunately, the refreshments are one of the easiest parts of planning your night. You can’t go wrong with classic movie theater staples, like popcorn, nachos, soft pretzels and an assortment of candies.

Since you’re conveniently located in your own backyard, you can take things a step further. Fire up the grill and make some hotdogs and burgers for your guests. Everyone loves a backyard barbecue with a show!

Make sure you provide an array of drinks, too. Depending on what your guests prefer, you can stock up on craft beers, cocktail ingredients or your favorite wine. Offer non-alcoholic drinks to ensure everyone can quench their thirst.

If you want to take things to the next level, serve drinks based on the film you’re showing. Take inspiration from the cult classic “The Big Lebowski” and make white Russians or create your own cocktails. Show off your bartending skills and your film knowledge at the same time with custom drinks based on your favorite movie.

Expect the Unexpected

If you’ve ever planned an outdoor event, you know unexpected issues can pop up quickly. Take all precautions to ensure things run smoothly, like checking out all the equipment beforehand. You don’t want to be caught without the right cable to connect your laptop to the projector when you’ve got a full audience waiting for the show.

However, some issues are unavoidable. Having a backup plan is essential when you’re hosting an outdoor movie night. Check the forecast frequently leading up to your party. If you’re expecting bad weather, consider rescheduling. Sometimes the skies open up without warning — if it starts raining on your movie night, make sure you’re prepared to move things inside.

Don’t let bumps in the road stop you from enjoying your time with family and friends. Be ready for any hiccups and you’re sure to be everyone’s favorite host.

Hosting the Best Outdoor Movie Night for Friends

Hanging out with friends and watching movies is a time-honored tradition. Kick back and relax in the comfort of your backyard with these tips on how to host the best outdoor movie night. All you need is the right equipment, delicious snacks and the best company to create lasting memories.

The post How to Host the Ultimate Outdoor Movie Night appeared first on Modded.

Unlock Your Full Potential: The Ultimate Guide to Finding and Working With a Career Mentor

Martin Banks — Thu, 09 May 2024 16:34:38 +0000

Your career aspirations will take you on an incredible, lifelong journey. You’ll learn new skills, accomplish great things and maybe even make a difference in your industry. Make all of those achievements happen more quickly by getting a career mentor. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about finding and working with a mentor so you don’t miss any opportunities in your professional life.

What Is a Career Mentor?

A career mentor is a professional in your shared field who uses their knowledge and experience to teach you skills you might not learn on your own. They speed up the professional development process and boost the confidence of anyone they advise.

Working with a mentor won’t just polish your professional skills. Over 90% of people with career mentors feel happier at work than they did without their mentors. You’ll likely find greater job satisfaction with someone showing you how to thrive in your career.

Reasons Why Is Having a Mentor Important to Your Career

Career mentors are helpful because they provide these specific benefits for their mentees. You might appreciate adding these positive traits to your work life by finding someone you can admire as a professional role model.

1. They Turn Education Into Action

Any professional team member can graduate with the same degree from a college or university. How each graduate uses that degree will determine their overall career success. Doing that successfully takes time. You’ll learn the best business practices through trial and error, but you can skip the painful learning moments by fostering a relationship with a mentor.

Your mentor will tell you how they learned from their mistakes and what it looks like to do the things you learned in school. Your education will quickly become actionable without as much risk of making mistakes in your career.

2. They Demonstrate Networking Skills

Having a mentor is important to your career because they show their mentees how to network. Networking is a skill that’s difficult to learn in a classroom. Mentors have years of experience in finding networking opportunities, starting positive conversations and maintaining connections within your industry.

Networking also requires soft skills that foster better professional relationships through things like communication and active listening. You’ll practice these skills whenever you interact with your mentor, preparing you for future networking opportunities without your mentor by your side.

3. They Provide Constructive Feedback

Hearing that you’ve done something incorrectly is difficult to process when you put all your energy into your job. Getting the same feedback from a trusted mentor makes any comments more constructive. You’ll feel safe because you trust your mentor and know they see how hard you work. It will be easier to learn from mistakes and sharpen your skills much faster.

How to Find a Career Mentor

There are a few ways to find a career mentor, depending on your field. Check out these ideas to start reaching out to professionals who might be interested in the role.

1. Reflect on Your Current Professional Circle

Think about who you work with or previously worked with. Did you look up to any of your co-workers or former supervisors? If they have more years in your industry, they could become a mentor if you ask them about starting that kind of relationship.

2. Research Related Professional Organizations

When people wonder how to find a career mentor, they also start their journey with professional organizations within or outside their industry. The National Career Development Association and The Mentoring Club host recurring events for new professionals seeking mentors. You could also use a digital database like Mentor to find a local expert who could fit your desired mentorship role.

3. Connect With People Online

Professional networking sites like LinkedIn are excellent places to reach out to possible mentors. Send a friend invite to individuals to start chatting or browse upcoming networking events on the site’s public events calendar. It’s an easy way to find more resources and build your professional relationship roster to locate the right mentor for your field.

Questions to Ask a Mentor About Career Development

Once you have a few potential mentors in mind, you should get to know if they’re leadership material before starting anything long-term. Browse these questions to ask a mentor about career development to ensure your possible choices can teach as well as they lead.

What Goals Would You Set for My Professional Aspirations?

You might already know how you’d like to accomplish your career-related dreams, but a helpful mentor will provide a constructive alternative perspective. They should know how to set short and long-term goals that keep you on track while including realistic goalposts to measure your progress.

If you’re wondering why having a mentor is important to your career, gaining this skill is an essential part of being a mentee. You’ll learn how to create a broad vision for your success without needing years of experience to chart your goals. A great mentor will know how to form a rough path forward and what you can expect to learn along the way.

What’s Something You Wish You’d Known When Your Career Began?

This is one of the most important questions to ask a mentor about career development. You won’t make as much progress without the ability to reflect. Learning from past mistakes hones professional skills compared to ignoring the mistakes to feign perfection.

A mentor should embrace this crucial part of being human in the workplace by comfortably discussing their own mistakes. If they demonstrate how they unfailingly learn from good and bad outcomes, you know you’ll learn to do the same and become better from the effort.

What Experience Do You Have in Teaching Someone?

Mentors don’t always have prior experience teaching someone, but it may help them mentor you more successfully if they have. Ask if they’ve previously been a mentor, trained someone in your position or been a workplace leader who taught others in various settings. These opportunities make people better at communicating, empathizing and developing skills with someone who still has things to learn.

Experience More Success With a Career Mentor

Now that you know how to find a career mentor and which questions to ask about career development, consider starting your search today. You’ll learn from a trusted expert to expedite your success, no matter what you want from your lifelong career.

The post Unlock Your Full Potential: The Ultimate Guide to Finding and Working With a Career Mentor appeared first on Modded.

How to Break Up With a Friend: 5 Proven Ways to Part Without Drama

Jack Shaw — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 18:43:47 +0000

Friendships are the vibrant threads that add comfort and color to anyone’s life. Yet, what happens when one of those threads starts to fray? Not all friendships are meant to last forever, but ending one is never easy, either.

Still, sometimes, preserving your peace over the issues they may be causing in your life is necessary. The tricky part is determining how to break up with your friend nicely while still maintaining respect for one another.

Recognize When It’s Time to Move On

As life unfolds, your paths and priorities change, sometimes placing you in friendships that no longer align with who you are or aspire to be. Realizing you’re in a friendship that feels more like an obligation than a joyful choice can be a wake-up call. Here are some telltale signs it may be time to consider if the bond you share with your friend is still a good fit or not:

You experience persistent negative feelings: Reflect on how you feel when you’re around this person. If you constantly feel drained, frustrated or unhappy, this may indicate the friendship is no longer beneficial.
There’s a lack of mutual support: Friendships should be reciprocal. If you find the support and effort are one-sided, consider if the relationship is still equitable.
Your lives are taking different paths: Your interests and values may change as you evolve. A growing disparity in goals and lifestyles can signal that a friendship no longer fits naturally into your life.
There are trust issues: Trust is foundational in any relationship. If there have been betrayals or repeated disappointments — and the two of you can’t rebuild that trust — moving on may be the best option.
You avoid them: If you constantly make excuses to avoid meeting or talking with your friend, it clearly indicates that the relationship is over.

Prepare for the Conversation

Deciding to end a friendship requires thought, not just to respect the bond that it once was but also to ensure clarity and closure. Start by choosing a time and place that’s suitable for this conversation. Typically, a quiet and private setting where both of you can speak freely is ideal.

It’s also important to mentally and emotionally prepare yourself for this talk. Ensure you reflect on the reasons you want to break up with your friend. Then, consider the outcomes you wish to desire. Try to strive for a balance between honesty and compassion when the time comes. Frame your thoughts clearly, focusing on expressing your feelings without assigning blame. This will make the conversation go over more smoothly and maintain respect between both parties.

How To Communicate Your Feelings

For many men, expressing emotions doesn’t always come naturally, especially when conveying discomfort or dissatisfaction in a friendship. It can be challenging to maintain respect while still being honest. However, the right approach is to start the conversation with clear intent. It helps to articulate your feelings in a direct yet considerate way. Here’s how to ensure they receive your message without unnecessary hurt.

Express Your Perspective

Start the conversation by stating your feelings. Use “I” statements such as “I feel” or “I have noticed,” which allow you to express your emotions without making the other person feel attacked. This keeps the focus on your experiences and perceptions, reducing the likelihood of a defensive response.

Be Honest but Gentle

Honesty is key in expressing the reasons behind your decision, but it’s equally important to be kind. Avoid harsh criticisms or overly emotional statements that may steer the conversation negatively. Instead, offer concise, respectful explanations for why you feel the relationship isn’t good for you anymore.

Stay Focused

Keep the conversation focused on specific issues rather than generalizing. Discuss particular instances that illustrate your concerns if necessary, but do so without dwelling excessively on past conflicts. This makes your points clear without dragging the conversation into a blame game.

Dealing With Reactions

When you express your decision to end a friendship, be prepared for a range of emotions from the other person. They may be understanding and accepting, or it could be surprising and hurtful to them.

Regardless of how they react, staying calm and collected is the best way to move forward. If the conversation gets heated, remind yourself to breathe. Staying cool throughout the ordeal helps you to manage the situation more effectively and lightens the emotional weight.

You should also be there to listen. Give your friend the space needed to express their feelings. Actively listening shows you respect their perspective and are not just ending the friendship unilaterally. It can also provide valuable insights into how they received your words and whether they need additional explanation.

Lastly, it’s important to respond appropriately. Depending on their reaction, you may need to clarify your reasons further or reassure them that your decision doesn’t reflect their worth as a person. In some cases, you may need to firmly reiterate your boundaries if they respond with denial or attempts to salvage the friendship.

Moving Forward After Breaking Up With a Friend

Breaking up with a friend can be tough. Even if you know it’s for the best, it still hurts, especially when you remember all the good times you had together. However, the best way to move on is to take some time to grieve the relationship. Acknowledge that your friendship was real and that it’s now gone. You have the right to feel pain from the loss of connection.

Yet, if you’re struggling with the aftermath, ensure you lean on other friends or family for support. Sharing your feelings can be incredibly therapeutic. Sometimes, they may even be able to share their perspective, which may help you feel better about the overall situation.

However, friends and family can only be there some of the time to support you, so you may need to keep busy to help you move forward. Prioritize activities that boost your well-being and happiness. It could be a fun hobby or sticking with an exercise routine. Either way, taking care of yourself is crucial during this transition.

Get Through a Breakup With a Friend

Breaking up with a friend is never easy, but it’s a part of life that is sometimes unavoidable. By handling it with clarity, respect and empathy, you can minimize pain and make room for personal growth. Remember, parting ways gracefully allows you to move on with dignity, making room for new, fulfilling relationships that better resonate with who you are today.

The post How to Break Up With a Friend: 5 Proven Ways to Part Without Drama appeared first on Modded.

More Suddenly Canceled Music Festivals: Is the Scene Dying?

Jack Shaw — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 12:30:00 +0000

The music festival industry has suffered significant setbacks, with many events being canceled due to various circumstances. As shows lose momentum, you might wonder about the potential decline of the culture that was once well-loved by many. Discover why organizers are postponing highly anticipated events and check out all the canceled music festivals so far in 2024.

Why Are Music Festivals Being Canceled?

With the world resuming its public activities after being hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, the live music industry is now at its peak. Millions of fans are lining up to purchase concert tickets to see their favorite performers. According to Live Nation Entertainment, attendance soared to 145 million in 2023, compared to 2021’s 35 million and 2019’s 98 million. Ticket sales from the top 100 tours worldwide generated $9.17 billion in revenue.

However, despite the rising popularity of live music, organizers are canceling music festivals. Many factors are at play.

1. Slower Sales

Australia experienced a shift in cultural consumption habits, particularly among youth. In 2023, Splendour in the Grass, the country’s most famous music festival, didn’t sell out within hours because of “delayed commitment to purchase,” as voiced by organizers who rely on opening-day sales for capital.

2. Higher Overhead Costs

The rising equipment, insurance and venue costs contribute to canceled events. Extreme weather conditions also affect the viability of these outdoor events. A music festival works with suppliers and contractors, from stage installation to power generators, which adds to the increasing expenses of setting up a show.

3. Drop in Youth Attendance

College students are a significant target audience for music festivals. It’s a way for them to meet new people while bonding over their favorite artists and enjoying the outdoors. However, some individuals who came of age during the pandemic might have missed the rush of going to live events and may now seek other cultural experiences.

4. Accidents

Mishaps associated with large crowds might frighten hopeful festivalgoers. In 2021, 10 people died at Travis Scott’s Astroworld Festival due to compression asphyxia. In southern India last year, at least four students were killed and 60 individuals suffered injuries at a school music festival. The show was interrupted by rain, prompting the attendees to scamper for shelter, which led to a stampede.

5. Extreme Weather

This year, the Ultra Music Festival was canceled due to lightning and strong winds, prompting attendees to leave the venue immediately. Organizers of the Pitch Music & Arts Festival in Australia canceled the show due to fire danger at the site caused by extreme heat in the area.

6. Sustainability Concerns

The Coachella music festival, boasting over 250,000 attendees, generates over 1,600 tons of waste. Organizers must prioritize sustainability to address this issue and retain eco-conscious festival goers. They could implement greener transportation options, such as encouraging carpooling or taking buses, trains and subways, and promote the usage of reusable utensils.

Ann Peebles, performing at the Beale Street Musical Festival in 2007 (Wikimedia Commons)

Canceled Music Festivals in the U.S.

Here are some events that announced their postponement in 2024.

Old Settler’s Music Festival (OSMF)

Organizers have paused the celebration this year after deciding to sell the OSMF Homestead. This music festival was founded in 1987 and featured bluegrass artists, including Terri Hendrix and Alison Krauss.

Beale Street Music Festival 2024 (BSMF)

The event will go on hiatus this year after suffering a substantial financial loss caused by costly expenses and decreased attendance. The BSMF has been held for 46 years.

Body Language Festival 2024

This Arizona-based festival was canceled seven days before its target date due to unforeseen circumstances. The organizers released a notice urging people to stay tuned for updates in the coming months.

Sonic Bloom 2024

Colorado-based Sonic Boom, which is traditionally held during the summer solstice, suspended operations this year. This music festival is a three-day campaign event that’s open to all ages. There was no indicated reason for closure in the announcement.

Riverbend Festival

Joining the lineup of canceled music festivals is the well-loved Riverbend Festival. This folk-centered event’s organizers extended their gratitude for the 40 beautiful years in their poster announcement, indicating that they’re reevaluating and restructuring for a successful event in the future.

Suwannee River Jam

The festival is closing its stages after 30 years due to numerous challenges, including rising talent costs and inflation. The Suwannee River Jam is a highly anticipated event that offers camping.

Firefly Music Festival 2024

Firefly hosts seven stages and more than 100 performers every year. Unfortunately, it’s not opening its gates this year. The organizers cited their return “when the timing is right.”

Glitch Mob performing at Electric Zoo 2010 (Wikimedia Commons)

Possible Cancellations

These events are predicted to be canceled this year:

Made in America 2024

The show was canceled last year due to production problems. The official dates, if any, are yet to be posted.

Electric Zoo 2024

In 2023, this festival was canceled before the gates opened because the main stage wasn’t built in time. The organizers mentioned supply chain shipping concerns. The second-day show started two hours late, leading to the postponement of some acts. No dates have been announced yet.

Canceled Music Festivals in the U.K.

The U.K. is facing a downward trend in music events this year. According to the Association of Independent Festivals (AIF), the country could lose over 100 festivals due to rising costs. Here are some of the affected shows:

Nozstock The Hidden Valley Festival

This festival closed after 26 years due to the financial strain following significant COVID losses and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

Dumfries’ Doonhame Festival

Rising costs are the culprit for the show’s cancellation. According to the music festival’s co-founder, balancing ticket prices with soaring expenses and limited resources makes the event unsustainable.

NASS Festival 2024

Organizers announced the cancellation of the 2024 show last year due to “sky-high operating costs,” urging the government to review the value-added tax on ticket sales and lower the rate to 5% to support the recovery of the music festival industry.

What’s Next?

The industry’s future remains promising despite the challenges that led to closures, so you can rest easy knowing you can still enjoy going to shows. The timeless appeal of live music ensures festivals are here to stay. Government support in managing rising costs and taxes is needed to support these festivals and keep the tunes playing.

The post More Suddenly Canceled Music Festivals: Is the Scene Dying? appeared first on Modded.

Equip: Top 12 National Beer Day Essentials for Aficionados

Jack Shaw — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 13:30:00 +0000

National Beer Day is a cause for celebration, whether you like ales, lagers, stouts or porters. Each April 7, Beer lovers rejoice and honor one of the most popular beverages on the planet. How will you commemorate the occasion? The holiday is a perfect excuse to go all out with beer gifts and accessories, ranging from glasses to hot sauces. Here are the top 12 essentials you’ll need.

1. HexinYigjly Ace of Spades Bottle Openers

Beer is a popular accompaniment to card games like poker, blackjack and rummy. What if you could use the cards to open your beer bottles? These HexinYigjly Ace of Spades Bottle Openers are excellent beer gift ideas as they’re lightweight, sleek and easy to carry in your pocket. The stainless steel composition makes them last longer than other openers, so bring them to the bar, poker night, weddings and more.

Get it from Amazon

2. Swag Brewery Beer-Infused Hot Sauce

Who says beer flavors have to come from a beverage? Swag Brewery gives beer lovers a taste of their favorite brews through infused hot sauces. The sauces pack includes Asian sriracha, garlic serrano and roasty chipotle for an eclectic mix of spicy flavors. The chipotle sauce is the hottest, so get your milk or ice cream ready to cool down your tongue. Pair these gifts for beer enthusiasts with spicy noodles and nuts to get your sweat going.

Get it from Swag Brewery

3. Craft Beer-Infused Ice Cream Can Collection

Need to cool down after eating hot sauce? This craft beer-infused ice cream can collection is one of the best beer gifts if you have a sweet tooth. Scoops on Tap features salted caramel blonde ale, coffee caramel crunch stout, lemon IPA, and cookies and cream chocolate stout. Make a bowl to refresh yourself on a hot summer day, or treat yourself with a beer-infused dessert.

Get it from Goldbelly

4. GiftingMeCrazy Custom Beer Glass

The glass you drink beer from is important because of its sentimental value. What does your mug say about you? Get a customized beer glass from GiftingMeCrazy if you want a personal touch. This engraved glassware comes in 16- and 22-ounce options with a frosted white color. Put your name on the glass or use it for special occasions like a gender reveal. This National Beer Day present is customizable for any celebration in your life.

Get it from Etsy

5. LoveandLuxeHandmade Personalized Beer Caddy

Some busy guys like to take beer on the go, so what do they need? A reliable beer caddy goes a long way at get-togethers, the golf course or a lazy day at home. This personalized beer caddy from LoveandLuxeHandmade etches your name into a pinewood case holding six beer bottles. Put your favorite brewskis in the caddy and head out the door! Beer caddies are the accessories you won’t want to live without once you use them.

Get it from Etsy

6. 17 Stories Beer Flight Set

The worldwide beer industry encompasses unique brews like ghost pepper or pizza beer, so how can you explore new flavors? Your first step is to get a beer flight set from 17 Stories, providing enough space for four 6-ounce beer glasses. This setup is excellent for experimenting or testing guests on their beer knowledge. Show off your calligraphy on the chalkboard and write down what brew your guests drink on National Beer Day.

Get it from Wayfair

7. Huski Beer Cooler 2.0

There’s hardly a better beer than the cold one in your hand. The Home Brewers Association says all beer should be between 38 F and 55 F when serving to taste as refreshing as possible. How can you keep your drinks as cold as the mountains? The Huski Beer Cooler 2.0 is a high-performance brew holder with triple insulation, keeping your drinks cold with marine-grade quality.

The device even comes with a bottle and can opener in case you leave your favorite one at home. The Beer Cooler 2.0 is among the best beer accessories for taking your drink outside in the summer and keeping it cold.

Get it from Huski Coolers

8. Suzy Kuzy Beer Mitt

Cold beer in the summer is great, but what happens when winter arrives? The last thing you want to do is freeze your hand when having a brew outside, so the Suzy Beer Mitt comes to the rescue. Beer lovers in cold climates will appreciate this accessory because it combines a beer holder and a hand warmer. You can put beer cans, bottles and even soda inside. Bring it to your next outdoor tailgate for enhanced comfort.

Get it from Amazon

9. City Skyline Beer Glasses

Each city has a unique culture from its people, food, nightlife and beer. How can you commemorate your town on a beer glass? These City Skyline Beer Glasses are terrific when paying homage to the place you live or the favorite one you’ve traveled to. Each glass has an imprint showing the unique skyline featuring skyscrapers, monuments and bridges.

Get it from Uncommon Goods

10. CARIBOU Coasters Vintage Paper Beer Design

Hot summer days call for beer, but they could bring unwanted condensation from your glass. Protect your tables with these vintage design coasters from CARIBOU. Each coaster takes you back in time with designs you would’ve recognized a half-century ago. Get these beer accessories if you’re going for a throwback approach in your kitchen or home bar.

Get it from Amazon

11. “Tasting Beer,” 2nd Edition

The world has countless beers and a sizable global market, with experts estimating a $400 billion volume by 2028. How can you stay updated on the world’s brews? “Tasting Beer” tells you everything you need to know about the beer industry, detailing flavor profiles, craft beer trends and sensory evaluation guidelines.

Get it from Amazon

12. Williams Sonoma IPA Craft Beer Kit

Ready to brew your own IPA at home? This Williams Sonoma IPA Craft Beer Kit is one of the best gifts for beer enthusiasts because you can put the taste into your hands. This setup gives you malt, grain, hops and yeast to make tasty American IPAs after about a month of waiting. Grab this kit and impress your friends on National Beer Day with a brew they can’t get anywhere else.

Get it from Williams Sonoma

Picking Beer Gift Ideas

Whether in the U.S. or on an international trip, you’ll find people who enjoy beer. If you fancy a tasty lager or ale, National Beer Day is a holiday made for you. Celebrate the day with these 12 essentials to show you’re a true aficionado.

The post Equip: Top 12 National Beer Day Essentials for Aficionados appeared first on Modded.

Equip: Top 12 Essentials for St. Patrick’s Day 2024

Jack Shaw — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 14:30:00 +0000

St Patrick’s Day 2024 is just around the corner, meaning it’s time to start wearing green and eating corned beef. If you’re planning a party, you’ll need food, games, and decorations to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and understand the spiritual meaning behind the holiday. Here are the 12 essentials you’ll need to get your St. Paddy’s Day party started.

1. Yiaht Shamrock String Lights

Make your house as green as possible with St. Patrick’s Day decorations around the house. These Yiaht shamrock lights are an excellent addition to your living room or patio with their LED efficiency and brightness. The Department of Energy says LEDs use as much as 90% less power, so use these fixtures to make your St. Patrick’s Day 2024 party the most eco-friendly yet.

Get it from Amazon

2. OHOME St. Patrick’s Day Decorations

It’s hard to have too much green in the house, especially if you’re a Boston Celtics or a Notre Dame fan. Shamrocks represent the spiritual meaning of St. Patrick’s Day because the titular man used them to represent the Christian Holy Trinity. These banners bearing the plant pair well with your kitchen, living room and other locations where you want to host a party.

Get it from Amazon

3. Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven

How can you say Happy St. Patrick’s Day without food? Traditional dishes for this holiday include shepherd’s pie, soda bread and coddle, but it’s hard to beat a tasty plate of corned beef. Cooking it in a typical skillet is challenging, so you need a sturdy Dutch oven to get the job done. This Lodge 6 appliance is terrific because it works in up to 500° Fahrenheit in the oven, making your corned beef tender and juicy.

Get it from Lodge Cast Iron

4. Meanplan St. Patrick’s Day Shamrock Cups

Beer is a mainstay for St. Patrick’s Day, especially with stouts like Guinness in your glass. Make your parties easier with Meanplan’s shamrock cups to ensure you have enough glasses to go around. These disposable cups are sturdy and have neat St. Patrick’s Day decorations to celebrate the occasion with whatever you pour inside. Beer, ice cream and candy are only some of the possibilities.

Get it from Amazon

5. Fruidles St. Patrick’s Day Chocolate Coins

Holidays mean good food and even better sweets, so cap off your meal with St. Patrick’s Day desserts. These Fruidles chocolate coins are a March 17^th essential with their premium quality and milk-chocolate texture. The U.S. quarter logo makes them a fun treat you can use in St. Patrick’s Day games and other holiday festivities. Plus, the candies are nut-free to be more inclusive for your guests.

Get it from Fruidles

6. McCormick Culinary Green Food Color

St. Patrick’s Day decorations aren’t just for your living room — you can also make your food festive! McCormick food coloring is an easy and safe way to turn your potatoes, eggs and St. Patrick’s Day desserts green. This liquid food coloring works even better with baked goods, so put a drop in your cookies and cakes for a fun holiday treat.

Get it from Walmart

7. JEEFONNA Glitter Temporary Tattoos

How can you engage yourself and your kids more with this mid-March holiday? Use these JEEFONNA temporary tattoos to decorate yourselves and be in tune with St. Patrick’s Day. This fun body art gives you numerous options like shamrocks, top hats, Irish flags and other terrific designs.

Get it from Amazon

8. Lightbird St. Patrick’s Day Hat

Remember to wear green on St. Patrick’s Day 2024 — otherwise, the leprechauns will get you! Avoiding a pinching attack can be tricky if you don’t have green apparel, so get this Lightbird St. Patrick’s Day hat with some characters from the Irish alphabet. The cap is breathable with 100% polyester and can fit men and women. Use it if a bad haircut you get the day before requires a quick fix.

Get it from Amazon

9. THREE IN St. Patrick’s Day Socks

Mid-March can still be cold in many areas, even though spring is near. How can you stay warm and celebrate the holiday? Get these St. Patrick’s Day socks from THREE IN because they’ll pair well with any outfit. While they’re great for this holiday, you can use these socks anytime you want. Plus, they’re another way to avoid pinches.

Get it from Amazon

10. Percozzi St. Patrick’s Day Dart Board

The holiday sees parades worldwide, with people lining the streets to watch bands, dancers and other performers. Continue the fun at home with St. Patrick’s Day games, such as this dartboard from Percozzi. Kids will have an easy and safe time with this game, as it uses sticky balls instead of darts to score points. The backside has an Easter-themed board, so reuse it for this holiday two weeks later!

Get it from Amazon

11. Chinco St. Patrick’s Day Trivia Game

Does your crowd include a bunch of brainiacs? Put their knowledge to the test with this St. Patrick’s Day-themed trivia game from Chinco. The cards are a terrific educational tool for teaching children about the holiday and they’ll help you brush up on your history. This pack also includes word searches and scrambles for additional fun.

Get it from Amazon

12. Abbylike St. Patrick’s Day Clear Gift Bags

The best part about any holiday party might be the goodie bags you take home. Little ones and friends will appreciate the chocolate coins and party memorabilia you stuff in their bags as they wind down St. Patrick’s Day. These clear gift bags from Abbylike are perfect for the holiday with their shamrock themes and reliable PVC plastic.

Get it from Amazon

Get Ready for St. Patrick’s Day 2024

Saying happy St. Patrick’s Day is even more fun when you have a great party for family and friends. Make your festivities the best on the block by grabbing these 12 essentials!

The post Equip: Top 12 Essentials for St. Patrick’s Day 2024 appeared first on Modded.