HGTV Dream HOME 2018

Home, the word alone brings back memories of cookies baking, slumber parties and of course chores. As we grow older, home makes us wonder why we ever wanted to stand in line for entertainment. Knowing that home plays such a big role in our lives AMAS teamed up with HGTV to give you a tour of the dream home they are giving away this year. If you are unfamiliar with the show or you just want an opportunity to move out of your momma's basement we have you covered.

What is the HGTV Dream Home?

The HGTV Dream Home Giveaway is the network’s first and biggest annual home giveaway and one of the most successful consumer promotions in cable TV history. The fully furnished family residence is located in a different major U.S. travel or vacation destination each year. Its success has led to the addition of the HGTV Smart Home Giveaway and the HGTV Urban Oasis Giveaway.

What is the value of the HGTV Dream Home 2018?

The HGTV Dream Home 2018 grand prize package is valued at more than $1.8 million. In addition to the residence and all its furnishing, the grand prize package includes a new Honda Accord and $250,000 cash prize provided by national mortgage lender Quicken Loans® 

Where is the HGTV Dream Home 2018?

This year’s completely renovated, fully furnished home is in the quaint and picturesque town of Gig Harbor, Washington. The area’s lush evergreens, natural beauty and rich maritime heritage make it one of the most charming towns in the Pacific Northwest. Located on Henderson Bay, the home features incredible views of Puget Sound from nearly every room.

When does the HGTV Dream Home 2018 sweepstakes run and how can I enter?

The HGTV Dream Home 2018 sweepstakes opens for entries Wednesday, December 27, 2017, and runs through Friday, February 16, 2018 Eligible viewers can enter twice per day at HGTV.com/vip Full rules are available at HGTV.com.

Designed by architect Eric Gedney and decorated by interior designer Brian Patrick Flynn. They completely renovated and furnished this 3,500 square foot home. This four bedroom and three and a half bath home underwent a remarkable transformation into a modern, one of a kind HGTV Dream Home that represents the best of Pacific Northwest style. The great room that features floor to ceiling windows with incredible views of the Puget Sound is a perfect reflection of this. 
 

Other notable features in the house include a master suite with a spacious and luxurious bathroom. A walk-in closet and separate seating area with views of the water. With custom art to match. A swanky cocktail lounge with builtin bar is perfect for entertaining. Speaking of entertaining the outdoor spaces include a covered pergola, an upper deck and lower patio with dining areas and built-in grill. On top of that, the backyard fire pit is a  front row seat for Henderson Bay’s stunning sunsets. So if you like what you see make sure to enter to win this beautiful home at HGTV.com/vip

Photos ©️2017 Scripps Networks, LLC. Used with permission; all rights reserved. 

Dear Best Man.

The guy who had frosted tips, braces and lived in his momma's house years after college is getting married. Even if you don't believe in a higher power, at this moment, you know heaven and earth were moved. For your loyalty, through these rough years, you have been bestowed the honor of being his best man. So, now what?

Best Man Duities

Before the wedding.

Lucky for you, your "honey-do" list is not as long as your female counterpart. You are more than the bachelor party chairman, but for appropriate laughs, let us start there. The number one goal is that the groom has fun. No one wants Bender. The best way to plan this rite of a passage is to enlist the help of your fellow groomsmen. Also, ask the groom if there are any specific things he wants to do and if anything is off the table (i.e. hookers and blow). Once you have a baseline, make sure to inform the goom that his rights to add input have been revoked (trust us, its more fun this way). Please note, this is the central time for embarrassing moments to shine. Don't overdo it at the wedding or during the speeches.  Whatever you choose, make sure the night or weekend is structured enough so that your not just sitting around watching SportsCenter or so jam-packed you have to rush. Remember: no matter what you choose to do your bud should look back at this event fondly. 

Sure you know about the bachelor party, but you may also be asked to help in the selection of wedding suits and the groom's tuxedo. Some of our favorite places to look for inspiration are The Tie Bar and Generation tux. Even if your not a fashionisto, please be on notice: an excellent pocket square will elevate any suit, and your tie bar holds the tie in place once your jacket is taken off during the reception.

Other pre-wedding duties may include:

1. Helping with rehearsal dinner

2. Being the point of contact for all things groomsmen 

3. Helping the groom with honeymoon planning/reservations

4. Organize the couple's departure from the reception 

5. Selecting an appropriate - or inappropriate - gift for the groom from the groomsmen

Wedding Day

Today you are a “yes” man. It's ok to be stressed as long as it is on you and not the bride or groom. Do everything in your power to make the groom as relaxed as possible. From helping to usher Gram-ma-ma to the dimple in the groom's tie, you're the man with a plan. Honestly, this should go without saying, but make sure the groomsmen go easy on the sauce; this isn't a tailgate. During the ceremony, you will be handling the ring and walking the maid of honor up and down the aisle.   If you are confused about where to be or what to do, that is the time to coordinate your movements with the wedding planner.

Other Wedding tasks:

1. Sign the marriage license

2. Make sure groomsmen have the boutonnieres attached properly

3. Make sure groomsmen are where they need to be for pictures

The Best Man Speech

You did it! You - yes you - got him down the aisle! Now is your time to shine: the best man speech. This is not a time to wing it. If you are not a wordsmith, it's ok to research jokes and words of wisdom. Go over your speech with someone beforehand to ensure people will react the way you want them too. The perfectly crafted speech will create moments of laughter and love. Being bestowed with the honor of best man is no small matter, show your appreciation by giving him a speech worth remembering!

Our Speech Tips: 

1. Keep it 5-8 min long

2. Stay away from inside jokes

3. Acknowledge the groom and especially the brides family 

4. Memorize your speech

5. DON'T get the brides name wrong (Yikes!)

IF YOU NEED SOME INSPIRATION HERE IS MY HUMBLE SAMPLE: 

For those who don't know me I'm Richard aka the lost Toebe brother but more importantly, I have been Marty and Stephanie's third wheel for the last half a decade. 

First off I want to thank Stephanie's for saying yes because Rich and Gail were running out of ideas to get Marty to move out of the house...he is pushing 30 Y'all. 

Speaking of I want to acknowledge Gail and Rich and of course the parents of the bride Susan and Roger without them this beautiful day would not be possible. 

Marty, we have been friends a long time, but this isn’t about you and me it’s about you and Stephanie. I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge how beautiful Stephanie looks. Now, Stephanie, could you take your hand and put it on the table. Now Marty put your hand on top of hers. I want you to remember this moment because this will be the last time you ever have the upper hand in this relationship. 

Stephanie, I want you to take a deep breath and remember this moment... One day you're going to be tired from a long day at work and you're going to have to do laundry and your going to find one of Marty's draws and they are going to look like they were wiped on a coal minors brow... Remember this moment...Because love endures. 

Now, Marty, I want you to take a deep breath, look at Stephanie and tell her "I love you." Remember she will never tire hearing these words from you. As a married man there will come a point in time where you think "well I married you isn't that good enough" and when that happens remember this moment! 

As a married man of 0 years, I want to give you some advice since I’m so qualified. 

As you embark on this new journey, keep in mind to practice forgiveness. Even though dating is over love can still be a battlefield. 

I challenge you to love deeper. 

And lastly live with purpose individually and as a couple.

 As I raise my glass I just want to end my toast by saying 

In your new life: 

May your neighbors respect you. 

Trouble neglect you.

Angels protect you.

And heaven accept you. 

To Marty and steph!

With that, you are good to go. Now go find yourself a bridesmaid.  

Special thanks to Marty & Stephanie 

Photography by Emily Star Pool 

New Year New You!

Each New Year is a new chance for reflection and correction. To that end - err, that beginning - AMAS has amassed a short list (three books) of resources to get you started. These books span the topics of Love, Finance, and Lifestyle. Meanwhile, be sure to enjoy a fun New Year's Eve inspired look from our friends over at Indichino.  

7 Strategies for Wealth & Happiness

By Jim Rohn 

“Without goals, it’s impossible to manage your time effectively and achieve your dream life. ”

— Jim Rohn

Success is nothing more than the natural consequence of consistently applying the fundamentals of success. Happiness and wealth are no different. Jim Rohn promotes the 80 percent principle, which states that six significant practices make up eighty percent of whatever skill or goal you are trying to master. This excellent read addresses essential questions on health, wealth and personal achievement.  For those of you who have fallen short of goals in the past, Mr. Rohn gives practical advice that can instantly be implemented.  

Notable topics covered:

• The Four Great Motivators for Personal Achievement
• Learning the Science of Change 
• The Four Attitudes Toward Time 
• The Road to Living Well - (Lifestyle is style over amount) 

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The Art of Seduction 

By Robert Greene

““Seduction is a game of psychology, not beauty, and it is within the grasp of any person to become a master at the game. All that is required is that you look at the world differently, through the eyes of a seducer.””

— The Art of Seduction.

If you have to play the game, you might as well have the playbook. The Art of Seduction vividly illustrates how seduction is more than a sexual tool. With analogies from history, Greene explores the interstice of social and political temptation. In today's age where everyone has options, this book will help you understand the psychology of how to gain someone's affection and desire. Even if you are "out of the game," this book can assist with your ambitious endeavors by teaching the skills that work in day to day dealings with people. Packed with stories from fictional and historical figures this book will give you something to think about and apply for the next 365. 

Notable Thoughts: 

• The Seductive Character 
• The 18 Types Of Seducers Subjects 
• Seduction Phases 

Secrets of the Millionaire Mind

T. Harv Eker

“Money is extremely important In areas in which it works, and extremely unimportant in the areas in which it doesn’t. ”

— Secrets of the Millionare Mind

In the age of the internet guru, everyone has a system to sell. Harv Eker differs from many authors by first looking into the psychology of the have's vs. the have-nots. He reminds readers that whatever results they are getting are linked to what is going on in one's mind. The second part of the book is then spent explaining seventeen different ways the wealthy and the middle class look at money. With practical action steps at the end of each principle, we believe you will find something to take your financial literacy to the next level. 

Necessary Notables:

•  Thoughts lead to feelings. Feelings lead to actions. Actions lead to results.  
•  When the subconscious mind must choose between deeply rooted emotions and logic emotions will almost always win.  
• The habit of managing your money is more important than the amount. 

Photos by Arturo Garza

IG: Arturogarzaphotography

Le Foodie Co

A Man About style Is all about experiences. This weeks collaboration will take you on a tour of Seattle's finest vegan dessert restaurants. Join us as we visit Cup Cake Royal, Frankie & Jo's and The Cookie Counter. Like  Le Foodie Co we are lovers of fashion and food. 

Besides food, this streetwear brand has a hunger for impacting the lives of others. Thier T's have become a vehicle for change. With the purchase of each shirt, Le Foodie will donate 10% of profits to help struggling families gain access to nutritionally balanced meals. Here at AMAS we believe giving is one of the master keys to success, so join us in support Le Foodie. 

Shop the look: Pants by  inodchino, Shoes; Creative reaction, Cardigan: J. Crew, T-shirt: Le Foodie

Photography by Arturo Garza  IG: arturograzaphotography

Henry's Tavern

Breaking bread has always been more than just eating. It implies that the event has fostered memories or has created an event that has brought unlikely parties together. If you're like us, you have experienced some of the best moments and conversations over a bite or beverage.  With that reverence in mind, Henry's Tavern has created a space that revolves around the sense of community.  

Dining out should always be about the experience. For many of us, that hinges on the customer service. The culture at Henry's will lift your spirits with their infectious energy and attentiveness. Though they are subtle, as to not take away from those you came to dine with. Speaking of dining you won't be disappointed. 

Henry's brings to life many of your favorites when it comes to American cuisine. When dining here you are encouraged to pair your meal with their large assortment of brews. Our favorite dishes off the menu are the waffle fry poutine,  Blue Moon crispy cod tacos, and the BBQ Bacon Burger. Needless to say Henry's has all the right ingredients from service to food for any occassion. 

Special thank you to Chef Sean and Katie. 

Photography: www.soulbreathingphotography.com IG; Soulbreathingphotography

Video: Keanu Kees

Shop the look: J. Crew Bowery, Henley: Sharply, Scarf: Burberry