Art Scene: Girls Rock! DC

Art is near and dear to my heart - I paint and enjoy artist of all types. On Saturday, December 11th from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. you will have a chance to not only purchase fabulous art on the cheap but half of the proceeds will benefit the non profit Girls Rock! DC!

'Participating artists include Leslie Andrus, Lely Constantinople, Mike Ferguson, Sha Grogan-Brown, Floyd Knight, Tom LeGro, Gina Matchitt, Les Talusan, Lisa Marie Thalhammer, Frank Turner and others.  Artwork sold will include paintings, screen printed goods, lots of photography and more.'

Black Friday Deals: Old Town, Alexandria

STORES OPEN AT 6 A.M.; SAVE YOUR RECEIPTS FOR ADDITIONAL DISCOUNTS AT OTHER LOCAL SHOPS

ALEXANDRIA, VA – Skip the craziness of crowded malls and frenzied national discount stores and get “Door Buster” Black Friday discounts from local merchants in Old Town Alexandria this year.

Shop Local Alexandria, an initiative of the Old Town Boutique District, is organizing merchants across Old Town to open early. So far 24 locally-owned stores have signed on and more are joining up every day.

Studies have shown that when shoppers buy from local independent merchants, more money stays in the local community. That means more jobs, more tax revenues for local services and more support for local charities. It also means finding products and gifts that are more unique and diverse than what shoppers find at national chains. And in today’s big box, self-service world, local merchants offer genuine one-on-one customer service.

“We may not be able to offer the most outrageous discounts,” said Amy Rutherford, owner of Red Barn Mercantile and one of the many Old Town stores opening early on Black Friday, “but we have major retailers beat when it comes to quality, service and the overall retail experience. National retailers operate from national quotas, cookie cutter merchandise and get-it-yourself models. Local merchants know their customers. They buy what their customers want and are ready to go the extra mile to build real relationships. I live in Alexandria, my store is here. My customers are my friends and neighbors.”  

In addition to special Black Friday hours, and individual in-store discounts, a collection of Old Town retailers are teaming up to provide extra savings. If you buy from one of the participating stores on Black Friday, your receipt becomes an instant 10 percent off coupon redeemable at any of the other participating stores. See the table below for participating stores. 

Some of the retailers may set a few restrictions, but there's no limit on the number of stores shoppers can visit, or the amount of savings they can rack up. For example, if you buy something from Bloomers, you'll get 10 percent off at fibre space™. But why stop there. Your full-purchase receipt can get you 10 percent off purchases at La Cuisine, Mystique Jewelers, The Christmas Attic and other Old Town stores too.
The offer is good only on Black Friday, Nov. 26. 

Shop Local Alexandria (www.ShopLocalAlexandria.com) is an initiative of the Old Town Boutique District, a grassroots organization of local independent retailers dedicated to promoting historic Old Town Alexandria. For more information about the Old Town Boutique District or other events, visit 

OldTownBoutiqueDistrict.com.

Click link for a list of stores participating in the Black Friday Sale 
(* offer special 10 percent off with receipt discount)

Free Giveaway - CSN Stores

Yes you read correctly - FREE giveaway! One of my fellow bloggers, is hosting a free giveaway from the company CSN Stores. There are a couple of fun things to do to be entered into the giveaway. Please go to her blog to read the rules and regulations! The prize a $35 promo code to use at any one of their 200+ stores. You can't go wrong with free, so try your luck out!

Fall/Winter Style Must Haves

November is almost over and December is fast approaching. No matter where you live - whether in a mild or cold climate it's fun to fall into fall style! Just because it's cold outside doesn't mean you have to slack off on your wardrobe, embrace the chill in the air with great wardrobe choices. With these steps you will be looking effortless (key!) and chic in no time.

Oversized cardigans and sweater wraps - Lucky Brand and Victoria's Secret carry some of the best quality and affordable sweaters around.                              

Boots - both tall and ankle length. DSW and Payless offer a wide selection for the shoe concessioner.

You need that one stand out piece - why not let it be your coat. Try a pea coat in a vibrant hue or a leather jacket. Both are available at Victoria's Secret and Macy's.

Let't not forget the basics, pair with dark wash jeans in a skinny or straight leg cut and your possibilities are endless. Lucky Brand's jeans are made to fit women with curvy physique - your calf will not get stuck in these 

jeans!!

Remember these basics can be mixed and matched to your hearts desire. It's okay to choose color - but keep the colors on the cooler end of the spectrum. Simple and  effortless - these tips will keep you warm and stylish for the season.

Halloween Events: Michael Jackson Thriller Dance Lesson

This post is very exciting for me, because it involves Michael Jackson. How many times have you been at a party and 'Thriller' starts playing and you know part of the dance, but not the entire routine? Here is your chance to learn the dance and afterwards get your party on. In honor of the coming Halloween holiday, Zanzibar will be hosting the lesson. 

There is a small fee of $15 and you can purchase tickets through Thingstododc.com.

About the instructor:

John Chu danced professionally in New York City and was taught by one of Michael Jackson’s choreographers. John recently helped teach the Thriller for the Guinness World Record-breaking Thrill the World event. Bottom line - he knows what he is doing!

When:
Thursday, October 28

Time:
7:30 - 10:00 p.m.

Address:
700 Water Street Southwest 
Washington D.C.

Transformers: The Dark Moon | Filming in Washington D.C.

So it's kind of a big deal when any movie is filmed locally - but it's even more of a big deal when it's something like a blockbuster hit called 'Transformers: The Dark Moon'. Here is Shia Lebeouf filming in downtown D.C. earlier this week.

A Washington D.C. cop cruiser already smashed into the side of Bumblebees car - the crash sequence wasn't a part of the movie.  

Needless to say - no one was injured during the crash.

My friend and I plan on checking out the action this evening. If you are interesting in seeing what big budget looks like - come out during the times below:



3rd Street between Constitution Ave NW and Independence Ave SW, from 6:30pm Tuesday, October 12, to 6:30am Wednesday, October 13.


4th Street between Pennsylvania Ave NW and Independence Ave SW from 6:30pm Tuesday, October 12, to 6:30am Wednesday, October 13.


Pennsylvania Ave NW between 3rd Street and Constitution Ave NW from 6:30pm Tuesday, October 12 to 6:30am Wednesday, October 13.


Maryland Ave SW between 3rd Street and 6th Street SW from 6:30pm Tuesday, October 12, to 4 p.m. Thursday, October 14.


3rd Street between Constitution Ave. NW and Independence Ave SW from 6:30pm Wednesday, October 13, to 6:30am Thursday, October 14.


4th Street between Constitution Ave. NW and Independence Ave SW, from 6:30pm Wednesday, October 13, to 6:30am Thursday, October 14.

Shirlington Village: Oktoberfest

Mmm do you smell that? Fall has officially arrived! What better way to spend a sunny 68 degree afternoon than at the 11th Annual Shirlington Oktoberfest, sponsored by Capital City Brewing Co. There will be a selection of over 30 breweries giving out 4 oz samples to attendees. 

Where: Shirlington Village

4001 Campbell Avenue, Arlington

When: Saturday, October 2, 2010

Time: 12:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

(taps close at 6pm)

Cost: $25 for wristband to have samples

Throughout the event there will be an Authentic German band as well as authentic Oktoberfest food. The streets of Shirlington Village will be filled with laughter and music!

Facebook

Twitter

For a quart of Ale is a meal for a King.

-William Shakespeare-

National Press Club: Stomp the Presses!

Ready for a great night out with wine and beer tastings galore! Well look no further - this weekend the National Press Club is sponsoring it's annual 'Stomp the Presses!' event in Washington D.C.


Who: National Press Club Eric Friedheim National Journalism Library and Bell Wine & Spirits

What: Wine Tasting Benefit

Where: National Press Club Ballroom, 529 14th Street, NW, 13th floor.

When: Friday, October 1st , 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Tickets: $25

You are invited to sample wines from around the world in the elegant National Press Club ballroom while supporting journalism education and training. Experts from Bell Wine & Spirits, the event's sponsor, will guide you as you choose from more than 60 wines, cognacs, beer, and spirits.

With your ticket, you will have an opportunity to taste a wide selection of beverages including Flying Dog Beer, Piper Heidsieck Champagne, and selections from Charles Smith Winery, Cameron Hughes Wines, Jefferson Bourbon and McCallan Scotch. In addition, each attendee will receive a $5 gift certificate to use at Bell Wine and Spirits.

Wines will be available for purchase at the season's absolutely best prices, with a portion of the sales going to the Eric Friedheim National Journalism Library at the National Press Club! It's a perfect time to buy your holiday wine and spirits.

This event sells out early so be sure to purchase tickets in advance. Tickets are available at www.press.org/events/stomp-presses.

For more information, call Joshua Funk at 202-662-7580.

Fashion Night Out: Georgetown DC

Georgetown, DC joins the likes of other renowned fashion destinations such as New York, London and Rodeo Drive in participating as an official regional host of Fashion’s Night Out on September 10, 2010. Join us for an epic evening in DC’s most fashionable neighborhood as over 80 Georgetown stores, restaurants, and salons open for extended hours and host an exciting evening of spectacular, splurge-inspiring fashion events and promotions.

Participating stores/promotions listed here.

Dining specials listed here.

ABOUT FASHION’S NIGHT OUT
Fashion’s Night Out (FNO) is an unprecedented global initiative created to celebrate fashion, restore consumer confidence, boost the industry’s economy, and put the fun back in shopping. For one night last September, in New York City and twelve other cities around the world, designers, celebrities, models, and fashion editors staged exciting, one-of-a-kind events in stores open after-hours to the public. Shoppers were able to see Sarah Jessica Parker singing standards with Oscar de la Renta, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen tending bar, as well as Michael Kors, Justin Timberlake, Kate Hudson, Rihanna and Gwen Stefani (just to name a few) at various stores throughout NYC supporting the industry. Retailers saw a surge of new shoppers and increased sales, while customers relished the street-party atmosphere.

FASHION’S NIGHT OUT 2010: FNO will return to New York City and launch in cities nationwide this year on Friday, September 10, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Last year, in NYC alone, more than 800 participating stores across the five boroughs feted thousands of shoppers who supported the fashion and retail industries — we expect this year’s event to be even bigger and better, with a lot of fun surprises!

CBS SPECIAL: The making of Fashion’s Night Out will be the subject of an hour-long, prime-time special on CBS, Tuesday, September 14, at 10 p.m. EST. Cameras will follow celebrities, designers, editors, and retailers as they prepare for year two of FNO, taking viewers behind the scenes during months of intense planning and tracking the night itself as it unfolds across the globe. This special will also look beyond the glamour to the real-life implications at stake, focusing on the individuals working in all parts of the industry, from salespeople to design staff, for whom the vibrancy of the fashion business is a question of economic survival. You won’t want to miss it!

ABOUT THE GEORGETOWN BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
The Georgetown Business Improvement District (BID) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and enhancing the accessibility, attractiveness and overall appeal of Georgetown. Established in 1999 by its property owners and merchants, the Georgetown BID has more than 1,000 members. The organization is located in the heart of Georgetown in Washington, D.C and sets a standard of excellence in preserving historic charm while meeting contemporary needs. From marketing and special events, to transportation and streetscape, the Georgetown BID contributes to the vitality and quality of life in Georgetown. For more information please visit georgetowndc.com. Follow Georgetown on Twitter: twitter.com/georgetowndc. 


Georgetown was named “Best Neighborhood for Shopping” in Washington, D.C. by Washington City Paper’s 2010 “Best Of” Reader’s Poll. The two-time winner also picked up 12 other wins and nine runners-up including “Best Cupcake” at Georgetown Cupcake, “Best Window Display” at Anthropologie, and runner-up for “Best Clothing Boutique” at Urban Chic.

Wedding Designer Trunk Show: Monique Lhuillier

If you are planning to get hitched soon, plan on coming out to the Monique Lhuillier trunk show! There will be major discounts on some of Lhuillier's most unique gowns. 

What: Sip champagne and get a sneak peek at the 2011 spring line of wedding gowns at Carine’s Bridal Atelier.

Why: Special discounts on ruffled, layered, and flower-laden styles ($2,000 and up) like the Precious and Sophie.

When: Thurs. & Fri., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; 

Sat., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 

Where: 1726 Wisconsin Ave. NW, b/t R & S Sts., 2nd flr. 

Washington D.C. Restaurant Week: August 16-22, 2010

Have you ever thought... "I really would like to go to that restaurant but it's too expensive.."? Starting on Monday, August 16th, D.C. restaurant week will start and you will be able to have lunch and dinner at some of the best restaurants in the city. Some restaurants are offering lunch and dinner specials as well as three course meals. All prices are fixed per person, so there is no breaking the bank at that 5-star restaurant you've always drooled over.


Prices at each Restaurant:
Lunch - $20.10 for three course fixed-price meal
Dinner - $35.10 for three course fixed price meal


OpenTable.com offers free reservations for the list of participating restaurants.

Seafood Happy Hour: Alexandria

If you love sushi and oysters, there are two establishments in Old Town that are sure to please. Is $1.00 cheap enough?

Flying Fish 

Time:

5 - 7:00 p.m.

Special:

Enjoy $1 Sushi and beer and wine specials

Address:

815 King Street, Alexandria, VA

Hank's Oyster Bar

Time:

5 - 6:30 p.m.

Special:

Enjoy $1 oysters plus beer and wine specials

Address:

815 King Street, Alexandria, VA

*Follow the Hanks on twitter here 

 

Alexandria Boutique Events: 3 Days of Fashion

More Daylight, More Time to Shop

Members of The Old Town Boutique District are welcoming summer with three days of sales, gifts and events. Stop by participating stores June 11, 12 and 13 for special discounts, gifts with purchase and other fun.

“These are the longest days of the year,” says Elizabeth Todd, owner of The Shoe Hive. “What better way to use the extra daylight than to shop at one of the region’s coolest shopping destinations?”

Old Town Boutiques Celebrate Summer with 3 Days of Sales, Gifts & Events

The Old Town Boutique District is a collection of 28 independent, locally-owned businesses located within walking distance of each other in historic Alexandria. Located just outside Washington, D.C. and easily accessible to the King Street Metro, these Old Town merchants offer a unique shopping experience. Shoppers can find everything from home décor items, fashion, jewelry, beauty items, children’s apparel and gifts.

Events and discounts include designer trunk shows at The Shoe Hive and The Full Cup, storytimes and craft classes for children at Hooray for Books, pick your own discounts at Monday’s Child and Pink and Brown, discounts on summer clothes at Treat, Gossypia and Apple Seed, free gifts with purchase from Arts Afire, The Christmas Attic and The Little Monogram Shop, free interior design consultations at Red Barn Mercantile, tastings at The Sugar Cube and free coffee at Grape + Bean, and chances to win classes from Fibre SpaceLa Cuisine.

Please click here to view all the participating boutiques as well as a map of the area.

To learn more about the Old Town Boutique District or to join its mailing list, visit www.OldTownBoutiqueDistrict.com

The Front Row: Thursday Bethesda Fashion Events

This is the fashion extravaganza you have been waiting for. Starting today, there will be plenty of designers, fashions show and guest appearances to put you in a tizzy! 

Three days of runway fashion shows on Bethesda Lane, 30 different truck shows, designer and celebrity guest appearances including "Project Runway’s Laura Bennett, High Society Star Tinsley Mortimer and fashionable best-selling author Jill Kargman Headline Exclusive" 

Thursday, May 20, Ginger, 6-9:00 pm
Headline Events

Kick off your fashion fix with Jill Kargman for a reading and signing of her best selling novel, Arm Candy. Cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and a Suzanne Somersall jewelry show!

*Thursday In-Store Events*

Bella Italia, 5-7:00 pm
Dreaming of Italy? Stop in and taste Italian wines 5-7pm, plus save 50-60% off select ceramic pieces all weekend.

Bluemercury, All Day
Complimentary makeup and skincare consultations from Laura Mercier, Bobbi Brown, Darphin and more! Call now to book your complimentary appointment: 301-986-0070 

Light refreshments and gift with a $75 purchase, while supplies last!

Lou Lou, 11-1:00 pm
Mija Jewelry Trunk Show, meet designer Michelle Guest as she features her beautiful crafted jewelry for women and children.

Sassanova, 10-8:00 pm
A.V. MAX Jewelry Trunk Show, see the summer 2010 collection of this edgy New York-based line often featured in Elle, Vogue and InStyle.

Urban Chic,11-7:00 pm
Designer Denim Fitting Event featuring Current/Elliot, Hudson, James Jeans and more. Book your appointment now for a one-on-one consultation with a denim expert to find your perfect pair.

Friday, May 21, Bethesda Lane, 7:30 pm

The Front Row Runway Event, featuring  Tinsley Mortimer and Washington’s most fashionable on The Front Row. This is the second year for the runway event and will put the spotlight on the "hottest" designer collections from boutiques around the area. There will be limited seating and front row seating is by invitation only. After the fashion show, Project Runway's Laura Bennett will read from and sign her book, Didn't I Feed You Yesterday? A Mother's Guide to Sanity in Stilettos.

*Running Thursday, Friday and Saturday*

Barnes and Noble:
The B&N Fashion Library: visit our special display of every great fashion and style title in the store. A special section will also display the presenting authors appearing at The Front Row. 

Cork and Fork,3-7:00 pm 

Wine Tasting: Sample our selections as you enjoy a 10% case discount all weekend long. $5 at the door.

Georgetown Cupcake 
Chic Stiletto Sweets, fashion themed cupcakes available exclusively during The Front Row Thursday – Saturday.

J. McLaughlin

Meg Carter Designs Trunk Show, shop the collection all weekend plus receive a free gift with any purchase of $250 or more.

The Front Row: Friday Bethesda Fashion Events

*Friday In-Store Events*

Bella Italia, All Day
Italian Olive Oil Sampling, enjoy a taste of Italy and sample Italian olive oils while you shop.

Bluemercury
Bobbi Brown Makeover Party and Marla Malcolm Beck appearance.
Call 301-986-0700 to book your complimentary appointment.
Light refreshments, plus receive a gift with your $75 purchase.

Ginger
Calypso St. Barth Trunk Show: featuring their complete 2010 summer collection of flirty, high-fashion dresses, tops and accessories.

Lou Lou, 12-2:00 pm
Shop the Mija Jewelry Trunk Show: enjoy wine and cheese while you shop her beautifully crafted jewelry for women and children.

Luna, 10-7:00 pm
High (Fashion) Tee Event, shop designer tees from Velvet, LA Made, Rebecca Beeson, Michael Stars, T LA and more.
Take 15% off and enjoy a free gift with your t-shirt purchase.

Sassanova, 10-8:00 pm
M.Z. Wallace Handbag Trunk Show, see the summer 2010 bag collection called “elegant” by Lucky and “artistic” by Women’s Wear Daily.

Urban Chic, 10-8:00 pm

Leona Designer Appearance and Trunk Show, meet the designer Lauren Leonard, shop her designs and save 15%.
After the fashion show join us for bubbly + treats.

*Running Thursday, Friday and Saturday*

Barnes and Noble
The B&N Fashion Library: visit our special display of every great fashion and style title in the store. A special section will also display the presenting authors appearing at The Front Row.

Cork and Fork, 3-7:00 pm
Wine Tasting: Sample our selections as you enjoy a 10% case discount all weekend long. $5 at the door.

Georgetown Cupcake
Chic Stiletto Sweets, fashion themed cupcakes available exclusively during The Front Row Thursday – Saturday.

J. McLaughlin
Meg Carter Designs Trunk Show, shop the collection all weekend plus receive a free gift with any purchase of $250 or more.

The Front Row: Saturday Bethesda Fashion Events

*Saturday In-Store Events*

Bella Italia, 10am-9pm
Italian Open House, explore Italy at Bella Italia with Italian travel tips and Italian sweets served throughout the store.

Bluemercury
Bobbi Brown Makeover Party
Call 301-986-0700 to book your complimentary appointment.
Light refreshments, plus receive a gift with your $75 purchase.

Ginger
Calypso St. Barth Trunk Show, featuring their complete 2010 summer collection of flirty, high-fashion dresses, tops and accessories.

Lululemon Athletica, 9-10:00 am
Pilates Class, join Lululemon Athletica for a complimentary in-store Pilates class.
Pilates master, DJ and snacks will be provided.

J. McLaughlin, 12-5:00 pm
Summer Preview, shop the spring/summer collections while you enjoy cocktail and treats throughout the store.

Sassanova
Bambeeno Trunk Show, see the complete collection of their beautifully stylish, environmentally friendly baby cashmere.

Urban Chic
Leona Trunk Show: Bubbly and treats in store all day while you shop Leona’s collection of perfect summer party frocks!

*Running Thursday, Friday and Saturday*

Barnes and Noble
The B&N Fashion Library, visit our special display of every great fashion and style title in the store. A special section will also display the presenting authors appearing at The Front Row.
 
Cork and Fork,3-7:00 pm
Wine Tasting: Sample our selections as you enjoy a 10% case discount all weekend long. $5 at the door.

Georgetown Cupcake
Chic Stiletto Sweets, fashion themed cupcakes available exclusively during The Front Row Thursday – Saturday.

J. McLaughlin
Meg Carter Designs Trunk Show, shop the collection all weekend plus receive a free gift with any purchase of $250 or more.

Beauty on the Beach: West Wood Country Club

BeautyinDC.com will be hosting an event at the West Wood Country Club.

“Top beauty experts will provide tips, makeovers and demonstrations. Many giveaways, discount coupons and beauty gift bag.”

Event Highlights: 

- Saks Fifth Avenue, Tysons Galleria will present fashion trends

- Meet lifestyle expert, Toni Leinhardt

- Win free passes to Sex & the City 2 

When: 

Tonight, May 18th

Time: 

6:00 - 9:00 pm

Location: 

800 Maple Ave E., Vienna, VA

Tickets:

$25, can be purchased here. A portion of the proceeds go to local charities.

Complimentary Appetizers/Cash bar

Please check out the event website.

Taste of Arlington: Sunday May 16th

Taste of Arlington - Sunday, May 16th rain or shine

Taste of Arlington® is an annual event that transforms the Ballston area into a lively street festival, complete with local entertainment, lively sponsors, children's activities, and lots of noteworthy restaurants. Over 40 restaurants participate in this spectacular community event, which draws an average of 15,000 people each year who live in the greater Washington, D.C. area.

This year, the event will expand its footprint by providing a deeper flavor of Arlington, showcasing the county's urban villages such as Ballston, Clarendon-Courthouse, Columbia Pike, Rosslyn and Crystal City

More than 40 of Arlington’s favorite restaurants will beparticipating in the 2010 Taste of Arlington®.

In addition to all the amazing food, Taste of Arlington® offers a fun-filled day with singing and dancing performances by local artists, street performers, and children’s activities.

Ticket Information:

While there is no admission fee, tickets are needed to sample the food and beverages at the event.

One 2010 Taste of Arlington ticket provides you with 8 Tastes. Food samples will require 1 Taste while 2 are needed to enjoy each beer or glass of wine.

Be sure to take advantage of the current online pre-sale ticket promotion! Patrons are able to enjoy a reduced price of $20 when they purchase their tickets online. There is a limited number of $20 tickets.

Others can obtain their tickets at the full price of $25 the day of the event.

The ticket booth will be located at the intersection of N RANDLOPH ST & WILSON BLVD.

Time:

12:00 - 5:00 pm

Where:

Wilson Boulevard in front of Ballston Common Mall.
Parking is available all day for $1 at the Ballston Public Parking Garage adjacent to the Ballston Common Mall, and the event is located on the Metro Ballston-MU station (Orange line).