I've been traipsing around the country this week, following my son to several lacrosse tournaments and posting from the road. One of our stops was San Diego. so I thought I would give a shout out to one of my favorite hotels ever, the Hotel del Coronado.
The Del has played host to some of America's greats, including Thomas Edison, Wizard of Oz author L. Frank Baum and Babe Ruth. Famed aviator Charles Lindbergh was honored at The Del in 1927 after his successful trans-Atlantic flight and Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis and Jack Lemon filmed the 1958 flick Some Like It Hot at The Del.
Eleven U.S. Presidents have visited The Del, starting with Benjamin Harrison in 1891. One of the resort's most famous visitors was England's Prince of Wales in 1920. He would later become King Edward VIII, only to give up his throne in 1936 to marry Coronado divorcee Wallis Spencer Simpson. Many have speculated that they may have first met at The Del.
The Navy Seals train right up the road, and every morning you can see them swimming the shoreline in the frigid waters of the Pacific Ocean. My son spent one day at a surf camp and had a ball. Whether you are looking for a family vacation destination or a romantic weekend getaway - you can't beat The Del!
Of all of the shows that have been filming in and around Dallas lately, the most anticipated is Bravo's upcoming Most Eligible: Dallas. Airing August 15at 9:00 PM, Bravo says of the show's theme, "Some are looking for true love while others have perfected the art of the one-night stand, and somehow their love lives have all crossed paths at one time or another. Dallas serves as the sexy backdrop for this jaw-dropping docu-series that follows a group of young, hot singles is living it up like only Texas socialites can."
Bravo now says the show will feature three men and three women — I find this veryinteresting because they filmed five guys and three girls. So, what happened?! I can only assume that once they started filming some of the cast just weren't giving them "good TV" and were demoted to secondary cast members - meaning that you will see them flit in and out of various scenes, but they won't be main characters. Think Real Housewives of New Jersey and Kim G. 'Nuf said.
I'm still confused about Neill Skylar's role on the show. She's listed on Bravo's website as a "Cast" member, but she is not individually featured on the promo video and sources inside the cast tell me she's a "secondary" character... so we'll have to wait and see how big of a role she really ends up playing.
I have done several posts about the show and have gotten to know many on the cast personally over the last several months. You may have seen the promo pieces Bravo is airing, but let me share with you a little bit of insight about who these "eligible's" really are:
Tara
Tara Harper says her three best attributes are “blonde hair, blue eyes, big boobs.” Out of all of the cast members I have met, Tara's probably the person I find the most genuine and personable.
She's a SMU graduate and the President of Paws In The City, whose mission is to save as many dogs and cats as possible from being euthanized at the City of Dallas shelter. Anybody who is an animal lover is just good people in my book. You can follow Tara on Twitter or become a Fan of her Facebook Fan Page!
Glenn & Matt
The dreamy heart throb of this show is going to be NFL punter Glenn Pakulak of the Oakland Raiders. At first glance I though he was going to be a douchebag, but I am told that honor will be going to Matt. Turns out Glenn is a real sweetheart. Catch him while you can girls!! He's a Mid-Western boy from Michigan who drives a caddy that's been in his family forever. Sentimental. I like that. He just joined Twitter, so follow him there.
Matt Nordgren had over 21 NCAA scholarship offers before deciding to attend The University of Texas. Matt was the first person in NCAA University of Texas Football history to graduate with two degrees in 3 ½ years. He now works in the family business and has called himself the “total package”.
Courtney Kerr is an “aspiring comedienne” and “sunglass connoisseur,” according to her Twitter page. Maybe that's because she works at Sunglass Hut. Yep, that's what I said. She describes herself as “loud and obnoxious”. I describe her as stunningly beautiful with a great sense of style.
She partnered with "one of her best friends" Amber Venz to style her for the show, so if you love what she's wearing this season, check out Amber's work here.
Drew
You know how they say "Every girl needs a gay"? Drew Ginsburg is the kind of gay every girl needs. He hilarious with a super-sharp tongue, was nicknamed "Drewcifer" (as in the Devil) in college and likes to think of himself as “not your typical gay”. Whatever that means. He has a baby-faced innocence about him, but he is far from innocent! Whoo hoo!
He loves exotic sports cars. Not coincidentally his dad owns Boardwalk Auto Group. Drew likes to Tweet so follow him on Twitter for witty banter and "like" his new Facebook Fan Page.
Neill
After moving away at the young age of 18 to support herself as a musician and actress in Los Angeles and New York City, Neill Skylar has returned to her hometown. The aspiring singer is working hard to launch her music career and gain recognition for her new band. She lives with her 1-year old son and believes that one can still have fun and be a hot mama.
Neill is trying to find her place in Dallas with the help of long-time friend, Matt Nordgren. Though Neill and Matt both say they aren't looking for something serious, the two can't deny their chemistry.
We are about to be hit with a bevvy of new "reality" shows filmed here in Dallas. The first one out of the gate will be Dallas Divas and Daughters, Season 2Big Rich Texas.
Earlier this year, I brought you the news about this new docu-series. Since that first post, there have been changes to the original cast.
The cast of Season Two was initially told that the premise of this season would be a "Mother/Daughter show to showcase different parenting styles" and that it would be "completely different from last season's show" - hence the change of title - but it appears that the producers pulled a fast one and once they started filming it became apparent this was not the case. It looks like this season will be just likeDallas Divas and Daughters, Season One, focusing on the interaction of the women, with little focus on their daughters, much less their parenting abilities.
I hear the cast was brought together before they started filming to meet each other and at the end of the day were told they were not allowed to exchange phone numbers or emails. The producers wanted ZERO interaction off-camera from the cast. But wait, the show makes it look like they are all friends who already know each other...
Are we really shocked to learn that reality TV is not always so real? Hmmmm.
Seems a few of the ladies were upset about the lack of "reality" in this show and bailed completely or asked to have their roles lessened to make them less visible.
So where's the shake-up? Seems "Queen Bee" Dena and her daughter, Jade couldn't get outta this cast fast enough. Southern Belles Paula, her daughter Shanelle and mom Althean also made a hasty retreat. This left the show's producers scrambling for replacement families. And WOW!!! Did they ever get a great replacement. Looks like they talked my favorite duo from DDD/Season One, Pamela Martin-Duarte and her daughter, Hannah, into coming back for more abuse screen time. I know nothing about Leslie and Kayln. Will have to dig around...
Here's your final cast:
Bonnie
Bonnie has a PhD and three novels to her credit. She was born into Dallas money but rejected the rules of a high-society lifestyle early on. Now a self-made millionaire, she wants back in, but she still wants to do things her way – along with her rebellious daughter Whitney. They are quite a team, shopping and undergoing mother-daughter plastic surgery together.
Melissa
Former model Melissa is approaching 40 and hoping to get back on the catwalk. 15 year-old daughter Maddie is determined to have a say in her mother’s life including who she dates, and will do anything to get her way. It’s a battle of wills between this mother-daughter duo as Maddie constantly tests her mother’s limits.
Connie
Recently divorced Connie is out to prove herself as an independent business owner with her designer consignment boutique business. Her daughter Grace, a trendsetter and rule breaker, is determined to become the head cheerleader on one of the nation’s most prestigious high school cheerleading squads. This pair likes to consider themselves more as best friends rather than mother and daughter.
Leslie
Leslie is Connie's cousin and a jet-setting pageant coach. She owns homes across the country but has recently moved to Dallas to take on the pageant capital by storm and launch the pageant career of her goddaughter, Kalyn.
Leslie is an unabashed, undeniable cougar, having dated the much younger Anthony Dorsett Jr., and an even younger golf pro at the club named AJ (who I am told isn't really even a golf pro, but was just cast for the show) . These aren't exactly the lessons Leslie wants to teach Kalyn, who has her own issues fitting in with the Texas elite.
Pamela
Married to a gorgeous, successful husband and mother to two beautiful daughters, Pamela calls it like she sees it...and calls it bluntly. She is an accomplished author, chairwoman of the Luxury Marketing Council and the epitome of southern class. Her connections and influence make her a center of power at the club, and she's determined to ensure her daughter Hannah follows in her footsteps.
After finishing her first year at college, Hannah is home for the summer and Pamela has decided to make Hannah her assistant. What better way to increase her daughter's profile in society - and keep a watchful eye on her. This duo should be familiar to Style viewers as they were last seen on the network's series Dallas Divas & Daughters.
"Big Rich Texas" begins airing Sunday, July 17 at 9:00pm ET/PT on The Style Network.
Remember when you were in college and the highlight of any date party was the Party Pic photographer? You'd grab your sorority sisters, smash your faces together and say "Whiskey!!" - or something to that affect.
The year this was taken has been blurred to protect the innocent...
Fascinating people from Dallas? Apparently, that me. I know... crazy! But the folks over at I Live In Dallas are starting a new series profiling interesting or "fascinating" people in this city and they wanted to start with me. Still trying to figure that one out... but what the heck. I'm rolling with it.
Click here to read the Q&A. My humble thanks to Neil Lemons. I am honored to have the spotlight shone on me and this blog.
The GLBT community is all stirred up over the filming of Logo's "The A-List Dallas". I introduced you to the new cast last month. So what's the drama? Weenies and Martinis was hosted at Jack’s Backyard on June 11 and was produced by Dallas Voice to benefit Lone Star Ride Fighting AIDS. The Dallas Voice accepted an offer by the producers of LOGO’s A-List Dallas to participate and film the event.
This week, Dallas Voice received the following letter from Donnie Pangburn that makes it clear, "no matter how far we’ve come in the battle against HIV/AIDS, we still have a very long way to go, even when it comes to educating our own community".
Donnie writes, "I went to Jack’s Backyard to a going-away party for a friend on Saturday, June 11, and soon realized there was a fundraiser raffle going on to support HIV/AIDS services through the Lone Star Ride Fighting AIDS.... I am HIV-positive myself and therefore know first hand the daily struggles that anyone with HIV faces.
One of the A-Listers, Phillip Willis, approached me and my friends and asked us to donate $20 for some raffle tickets. I instantly reached into my pocket and gave him $20. I asked Phillip what they were raffling off, and he stated, “It doesn’t matter; it’s for a good cause. It’s for all those poor, sad, old people.”
I asked whom he was referring to, and he just winked and said, “You know — them.” I replied, “No, I don’t. Who are you referring to?” He said, “You know, those ones who have AIDS.” My response to him was, “I am HIV-positive, and I’m not poor or sad.”...
Hell hath no furry like a gay man scorned... and the fact that an idiot like Phillip Willis is about to be a national face for the Dallas gay community has them shuddering. The GLBT community has rallied around Donnie and are urging our community to boycott the show. A Facebook Page has been started called Boycott LOGO's A-List Dallas and they are encouraging their Fans to write the Mayor's office, Perez Hilton and anyone who will listen to get this show shut down.
Many of the comments left on the Fan Page echo the same sentiment left by Ronnie Reynolds, "The 5 people they chose, in no way represent Dallas. My partner and I belong to many gay groups in Dallas, frequent the nightlife every weekend, belong on committees, and participate in many GLBT functions. We have never even seen any of these 5 people before. They just want to be on TV. They are NOT active in the community at all."
Word on the street is that most of the gay club owners are getting behind this movement and are banning future filming at their establishments. Good for them. It's gonna be really hard to film an interesting show about gay guys, if you can't get into any of the clubs... I'm just sayin'. Think Jersey Shore if they couldn't drink. 'Nuf said.
James Mitchell posted, "I know one of the cast members and he has graciously bowed out of the show. He, like all of us, realize this show depicts the very lowest from of our gay "LIFE". I feel we are doing a great disjustice to ourselves" Um, sorry James, maybe that's what your friend is telling you. But I hear he got the boot weeks before this incident.. This is a convenient PR move for him to save face and I say good for him for turning lemons into lemonade. He's probably thanking his lucky stars he's out of this mess...
KidneyTexas will hold their annual fundraiser, Stepping Out in Style, a fashion show and luncheon on September 15 at Brook Hollow Country Club. Event Co-Chairs, Pat McDonough and Marianne Wilshusen along with KidneyTexas President Megan Meyercord hosted a cocktail soiree last night at Tootsies where 15% of the evening's sales went to benefit this great charity.
(top left) LeeAnne Locken with Cynthia Smoot (top right) Alison Volk, Marianne Wilshusen and Pat McDonough (bottom) Yvonne Crum, Kim Koelz, Piper Young, Dan Pritchett and Tetia East Stroud
Anyone even remotely involved or interested in Dallas fashion knows of the legendary Jan Strimple. Fashion model and Bob Mackie muse turned event producer, Jan is a force in the fashion world. More importantly, she is known for being one of the nicest and most professional people around.
We have never actually met, so I was floored when Jan came up to me and not only knew my name but gave me big props on the blog and said she "liked my voice" online and encouraged me to keep doing what I was doing. WOW! Still floating today from that encounter.
Best story of the night came from designer Shirin Askari: We were scoping out a man in the crowd who was very good-looking and pondering his sexual preference. There was much debate in our group over whether he was gay or straight. Shirin told LeeAnne Locken, "If you want to know if a guy is gay. Take him to a dance club. If he dances with both hands in the air for more than 10 seconds - he's gay. Period." So, there you have it.
I can picture it now. A man walks into a bank, sits down and says to the money man, "Okay, here's my idea, you take a hot dog and cut a face into it, see. And kids like it because it looks like a person and you can make it dance. It's gonna make millions!' And some moron actually gave them the money to make this stupid thing!
The website says, "With the Happy Hot Dog Man™, every meal is an adventure! The entire family can get in on the fun, as you transform those boring old hot dogs into exciting figures you design… and eat! With ketchup, mustard, pickles or cheese. Turn it into whatever you please, and with endless possibilities, your Happy Hot Dog Man™ will make you smile again and again"
And, hey! For a limited time, you'll get a set of two – one in red, one in yellow – for the super low price of $10.99 plus $6.99 shipping and handling. Act now, and they'll double the offer, just pay separate $6.99 processing. That’s a total of 4 Happy Hot Dog Men™! As an added bonus, they’ll send you the Ketchup Critter and Mustard Monster bottle toppers to make decorating a total blast! This special Happy Hot Dog Man™ offer is not available in stores so the only way to get it is to place your order now!
Are you looking for your Prince Charming? Well, you won't find him on this show. But if you want to compete with a bunch of other beautiful women for one man, aren't shy about appearing in a bikini to go hot tubbing and are open to public displays of affection... then The Bachelorcould be for you!
It's been 9 years since this show debuted and I can't believe it's still on the air since no one EVER finds true love. Except for Trista and Ryan. But that was The Bachelorette and it still only happened once.
Still... you never know.
What: Casting Who: ABC's "The Bachelor" Eligible: Single Hot Females When: 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, June 18, 2011 Where: WFAA Studios, Victory Park, Dallas, TX
Meet make-up expert, Angela Levin, this Thursday at Neiman Marcus NorthPark from 11:45am-12:45pm. Hosted by Chanel, this is an amazing opportunity to meet a true artist and have her give you advice on how to maximize your assets and downplay your flaws!
Makeup Artist Angela Levin (left) created Sandra Bullock’s and Nicole Kidman’s
stunning faces at this years Academy Awards.
Her fingers have caressed some of Hollywood's most beautiful faces, including Jennifer Aniston, Blake Lively, Reese Witherspoon and Angelina Jolie! Angela will share all of her beauty tips, tricks and secrets and open up the floor to answer questions.
I won't lie. There are perks to being a blogger. You get invited to cool parties, asked to review new products before they hit the market and people tell you the juicy dirt on all kinds of good stuff.
The fine folks at Ford Motor Company have been very generous in loaning me cars and trucks to drive and give you, awesome readers, my thoughtson their automotive selections. This week, I got a super, suh-weet ride: The Ford Mustang Convertible.
I just got it an hour ago and immediately had to take it out for a spin. The first thing I noticed, is that it turns heads. And no, it's not because I am in it! Gosh, you are such a suck up. That's why I love you! It's because it's such a classic car and people have a natural affinity for the Mustang, so you can't help but stare when one zooms by. It's got the same classic styling that it had in it's heyday, but inside... it is pure 2011 styling and technology.
Femmes will bring 5-10 cleaned items of new or gently-used clothing or accessories on hangers or in boxes to Halo Salon on June 18, 10am-5pm or June 21, 5pm-8pm. When you bring your frocks, they will be evaluated and you will receive “Swap Cash” based on the value of your donation to spend at the party. There is also a $20 admission fee that will be paid at this time.
CLOTHING SWAP
June 23 | 6pm-9pm
HALO Salon, 5010 Miller Ave, Dallas, TX 75206
Powder or liquid foundation? Pencil or gel eyeliner? A trip to the cosmetics counter can be overwhelming. More often than not, your purchase ends up getting shoved to the back of your medicine cabinet--because you either don't know how to properly apply it or you got talked into buying something you never really wanted in the first place.
Victoria has done countless interviews with celebrities and their make-up artists, and now she's sharing their beauty wisdom (along with personal stories about the stars themselves, including Angelina Jolie and Jennifer Lopez) with you.
I caught up with the charming Victoria today at Stephanie Anne's in Highland Park Village where she was meeting fans and signing copies of her new book. Here's a little snippet of our conversation about beauty mistakes and Victoria's favorite tip for Summer:
You can WIN a copy of The Beauty Buzz. No More Beauty B.S. signed by Victoria Snee!
If you would like to win a signed copy of Victoria's new book - personalized to you - leave a comment below and tell me your best beauty tip or trick or tell me your biggest beauty beef. "Like" Victoria's Facebook Page for an extra entry - but be sure to leave a comment, letting me know you've done so!
NOTE: I will pick a winner at random on Sunday, June 12/5 PM. You will have 24 hours to respond. If not... I pick again! If you leave a comment under the "Anonymous" option, be sure to leave your email address in your comment - or I won't know how to get a hold of you if you win!
About Victoria Snee: Victoria Snee joined MIX 102.9 in 2007 as co-host of the morning drive radio show “The Morning Mix.” Prior to joining the show in a full-time capacity, she was a regular weekly contributor of fashion and entertainment segments. In 2009, she was named one of Dallas’ Ten Most Beautiful Women by D Magazine. Victoria has covered lifestyle, fashion and entertainment stories in DFW for the past 10 years working as a reporter on CW33 News at Nine.
Heritage Auctions is hosting a public viewing of some amazing prehistoric pieces before they are sold off at a unique auction - the largest of its kind ever!
I'd so love to have a dinosaur in my backyard. It would be a great conversation piece for the next pool party. But since that's not gonna happen, the next best thing is to see some dinosaurs up close and personal!
The auction will feature: a mounted Allosaurus; Stegosaurus; Triceratops; Duck-billed Dinosaur; a Giant Ground Sloth; the largest prehistoric Megaladon shark jaws ever assembled and the largest T-Rex tooth with complete root ever offered to the public!
Other highlights include: a comprehensive collection of Meteorites; Exotic Gemstones; a variety of uncommon Mineral Specimens with important provenances; a large selection of decorative Petrified wood; Amber with insect inclusions; Pieces of the Moon and the Planet Mars!
View this awesome collection for FREE!
The Tower Building at Fair Park
3809 Grand Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75210
Enter Gate 5, the Grand Entrance
Thursday, June 9 through Sunday, June 11, 10 AM to 6 PM.
Saturday, June 11 will also have a night viewing from 6-9 PM.
School is out. The heat has arrived.... and that means, it's Summer! That means we will all be looking for ways to beat the heat over the upcoming months. I have discovered a new healthy, delicious, frozen treat called PoPaLiCious! These frozen treats-on-a-stick are inspired from the traditional Mexican Paletas.
It’s almost an insult to call these popsicles! These gourmet paletas are made from top quality, locally bought fresh chopped fruits, and other wholesome ingredients like organic raw sugar and – in some cases - healthy nuts and flowers added to the mix. Now personally, I could care less about all this healthy crap. What I care about is taste. I've had almost every flavor and they are not just delicious... they are INSANELY DIVINE!
There are two group of pop-paletas to choose from: Fruit and Dessert.
The fruit paletas are so refreshing -- full of chunks of locally picked fruit and organic evaporated cane juice, they are a healthy treat for the whole family. Fruit flavors include: Fresh Watermelon, Cantaloupe, Limon (Lime), Pure Pineapple, Chile-Fruit (fresh fruits with a spicy kick!), Tamarind and the deliciously exotic flower-made blend of Hibiscus-Mint (my favorite). Fruit Pops are $3.50 each or $36 a dozen (a $6 savings!). You can order individual flavors in sixes or take an assorted dozen.
The dessert paletas are a slice of frozen heaven – laden with fresh ingredients, these bars will make your senses tingle, and your heart melt. Dessert pops include: Bella Banana, Rice Pudding, Pretty Pecan, Creamy Coco, Mango Mami, Whipped Strawberry, and Cookies and Cream. Dessert Pops are $4.00 each or $42 a dozen (a $6 savings!). You can order individual flavors in sixes or take an assorted dozen.
Other than fabulous taste... here are some selling points:
Fruit bars are low calorie (50-60)
Made with tons of fresh fruit and local ingredients
Made in small batches to ensure fresh flavor!
Sweetened with fair trade USDA Organic Cane Sugar
No artificial flavors – ever!
Not yet sold in stores, these delicious treats are available by exclusive pick-up or delivery. Home delivery in the Park Cities-area is free starting with orders of 3 dozen pops. Smaller ordes will be delivered for an additional $5 – or may be picked up personally (location close to Snider Plaza).
Exclusive deliveries are being taken through the summer. Got questions? Want more info? Need to place an immediate order because they look so dang good?
IZOD IndyCar® Series drivers Ryan Briscoe, Will Power, Danica Patrick and Helio Castroneves, the fastest drivers in the world, are coming to Texas Motor Speedway to compete for the win at the IZOD IndyCar® Series!
Auto racing fans can start your engines and head to Macy’s to get your racing fix a few days early!
Some of the most famous names to hit the track, including Danica Patrick and Helio Castroneves, are stopping by Macy’s NorthPark to meet fans and sign autographs. This event is open to the public. No purchase is necessary.
MEET DANICA PATRICK AND HELIO CASTRONEVES!
THURSDAY, JUNE 9, 2011 | 5:00 p.m.
The line will form beginning at 4:00 p.m.
MACY’S ENTRANCE, LEVEL 1
Just outside the Macy’s Store
NorthPark Center
8687 North Central Expressway
Dallas, Texas 75225
Beginning when the store opens on June 9:
the first 100 customers to make an IZOD apparel purchase will receive a free IZOD Indy hat.
the first 10 customers to make an IZOD apparel purchase of more than $50 will drive off with two free race tickets to the Firestone Twin 275s race at Texas Motor Speedway
Customers can also enter for a chance to win an all-new 2012 Honda Civic LX Coupe, the official car of the IZOD IndyCar® Series, and an IZOD shopping spree.
20 people could win a trip for two to the IZOD IndyCar® Series Race in Las Vegas!
Gin and Tonic? Rum and Coke? Margarita on the rocks? Forget about it! Those plain Jane cocktails just won't do anymore. Bartenders Eddie "Lucky" Campbell and Mike Martensen have created a new hand-crafted balanced cocktail menu for Bailey's Prime Plus using fresh juices and quality spirits. They have 11 fabulous new drinks and each one has a unique spin!
Bailey's Craft Cocktails
I was asked to host a swanky soiree at Bailey's to help kick-off this new menu, with fellow stylistas Kyle Kearbey from Quick, Kellyn Curtis from NBC's The Feast and Courtney Edwards from Where Wear in the City.
My initial glee at being asked to participate turned to trepidation about what to wear. So, I did what every smart fashionista should do - I called Alison Volk at Tootsies. She hooked me up with her best stylist, Pat Cousins, who took one look at me and came back with arm-fulls of fabulous frocks. After a fun hour of playing dress-up, I had the perfect party dress and was ready to sip libations and be the hostess with the mostess!
Deb SoRelle, Dena Miller, Cynthia Smoot, Courtney Kerr, Tara Harper, Pamela Chao and Tori Gonzales
I tried a sip of almost every cocktail and my favorite two were the Femme Fatale (pictured above/top left) made from Martini Prosecco, Grapefruit Bitters, Creme de Violette and edible gold leaf. YES! Those are flecks of real 23K gold floating in there! I felt all Lady Gansta with that one, although I kept worrying that the gold would get stuck on my teeth - but it didn't. My other favorite libation was the Garden Gimlet (pictured above/bottom left) made from Hendrick's Gin, Fresh Basil, Cucumber, Ginger and Lime. It was very light and refreshing.
Hostesses: Kellyn Curtin, Cynthia Smoot, Courtney Edwards and Kyle Kearbey
Rocky Ommen and I enjoy the crooning of the divine Hunter Sullivan
A crowd of well over a hundred people were lucky enough to sample the complete range of tasty new cocktails, as well as bites from Bailey's new bar menu. Hunter Sullivan provided the night's entertainment with a fantastic performance of all my favorite Rat Pack tunes.
I have to give a special shout out to my photographer Peter Wynne! Usually, I take all my own photos at the events I attend. Because I was the hostess of this party, I asked Peter if he would help me out so I could enjoy the party.
He did a fantastic job and if you ever need a photographer, I hope you will check out his work and give him a shout. Oh, and did I mention that he is FOURTEEN?! I love that he is focused and pursuing his passion at such a young age. You go, Peter!
To compliment their new cocktail program, Bailey’s will offer an extended happy hour Monday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. until July 1 in the Bailey’s Lounge with $5 house wines, $2 off signature cocktails, $2 off domestic beers and all items on the Bailey’s bar food menu are $8.
Regular happy hour will resume July 5 and will feature $5 house wines, $2 off signature cocktails, $2 off domestic beers and all items on the Bailey’s bar food menu are $8, Monday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The new craft cocktail menu is currently only available at the Dallas ‐ The Shops at Park Lane location.
Bailey's Prime Plus is located at 8160 Park Lane, Suite 130, Dallas, TX 75231
It's the ultimate dilemma. You get a party invitation and your delight quickly turns to trepidation as you ponder, "What on earth am I going to wear?!" That fear is only compounded when you are the hostess of an event and all eyes will be on you to set the style standard for the evening.
Such was the case when I was asked to host a soireefor the launch of a new Craft Cocktail Menu from Bailey's Prime Plus. I did what every girl in need of a fabulous outfit should do... I went to Tootsie's. I love this Dallas mainstay because they carry lines that you know and trust like Alice+Olivia, Roberto Cavalli, Trina Turk, Diane von Furstenberg and more. But, they also carry local lines like Roc Candy jewelry. So, there's an element of comfort, mixed in with the adventure of the unknown.
In preparation of my Bailey's event, I turned to Pat Cousins at Tootsie's to pull some fabulous frocks for me. These were my favorite 3 outfits... Which one do you like?
Stop back by tomorrow to read a recap of the Bailey's Craft Cocktail Launch and see which outfit I ended up in.
Tootsies is located at 8300 Preston Road, Dallas, TX 75225, (214) 696-9993.
Ask for stylist Pat Cousins and tell her Cynthia sent you!
This past May, the Fashion Group International of Dallas held their annual Four-Legged Fashion Event. Designers were asked to create a one-of-a-kind item for or about dogs, strut them on the runway at a "pup-tail" party, and auction them off. This unique event raised funds to support North Texas non-profit animal agencies that focus on one or more of the following animal protection programs: Animal Rescue/Care, Animal Adoption, Education and Reduction of Animal Overpopulation.
Watters bridal dress for one elegant pooch
Watters bridal company was one of the local designers who participated in this fun event. They have generously donated their deluxe swag bag from this event for a giveaway for one lucky reader.
WIN THIS AMAZING SWAG BAG FOR YOUR DOG!
Prizes are pictured above:
1. Frisbee
2. Dallas Dog Life Resource Guide
3. Issue of Modern Dog Magazine
4. 2 tennis balls
5. Fruitables Dog Treats in Pumpkin, Banana Mix and Pumpkin/Apple Mix
6. Natural Balance Dog Food (Lamb)
7. City Vet Dog Biscuit
8. City Vet Mini bones biscuits
9. Flossies Spiral Chew
10. Jack Black - Supreme Cream
11. Jack Black - Dragon Ice Relief and Recovery Balm
12. Jack Black - Face Moisturizer
13. Jack Black - Daily Facial Cleanser
14. Designer Dog Print Neck tie and Cuff links
15. Purple key chain
So, how do you win*?
Just leave a comment on this blog post and tell me the name of your puppy love and what kind of dog you have. Want an extra chance to win? "Like" Watters on Facebook and leave me a comment to let me know you've done so.
*I will pick one lucky winner at random on Wednesday, June 8/5 PM Central. The winner will be notified by email and have 24 hours to respond. If a response is not received, I will pick again! Your prize will be mailed directly to you from the fine folks at Watters.
Please join Watters & Bliss Bridal to find the dress of your dreams. Bliss Bridal will be featuring the Fall 2011 Watters Brides & Wtoo Brides collections. Please speak with a Bliss Bridal fashion consultant for details on the show, and to schedule your personal appointment. You will not want to miss this event!
I love to discover a new trend or a designer before everyone else. I also love supporting local businesses, especially our local fashion scene. This event covers both aspects and will showcase local rising fashion talent. You can say you knew them when...
Where? Scion of Lewisville, 1547-A South Stemmons Freeway, Lewisville, TX 75067
Scoop? 10 up-and-coming student designers will showcase their looks on the runway. An all-star panel of fashion professionals will determine the top three who will be awarded $5000, $3000 & $2000 respectively. Models from Campbell Wagner Runway take the stage at 7:30 PM wearing student designs including looks inspired by the Scion.
“We are excited to showcase these talented young designers and reward their creativity" says Chris George of Scion of Lewisville. "Scion was created for young professionals with an eye for design, so it's a privilege to provide this event as a platform."
Featured fashion design student contestants for the Scion Driving Fashion Competition include:
Cesar Arzola - UNT Elvira Diaz - El Centro Mitsu Ishikawa - El Centro Akisha Kirkland - TWU Neil Marek - UNT Antonio Orozco - El Centro Kyle Ramirez - Art Institute Robbie Richard - UNT Emmanuel Tobias - UNT Bao Tran - UNT
Juan Lerma and Eric Oliver Jr. of Amrel Revilo Productions have recently burst onto the Dallas fashion scene and will be producing this amazing show. It's going to be worth the drive! Come ready to drive and cruise in fashion!
Fancy yourself a culinary genius? The Dallas Observer, along with Taste of Dallas, wants to make YOU a culinary master for a day! Send them your most inventive recipe & photo of the dish to blueribbonrecipe@dallasobserver.com to enter The City of Ate Blue Ribbon Recipe Contest.
The most common misconception about me, is that this blog is my job. While this blog is a funtastic hobby, I do have a "real" job. I am a partner in Gangway, a marketing firm and advertising agency. So, what do we do? We work with companies to help them reach their marketing objectives using all of the resources the local market provides us: websites, print campaigns, social media, etc.
Sentry Lacrosse is a select travel lacrosse team that came to us to help them develop their brand identity. We not only came up with a name for the company and created their logo... we also design all of their team uniforms! We can now add fashion designer to our list of talents. Who knew.
Thanks to Lisa Petty at The Feast for featuring our short design today.
Save the date! This September 23, Shay Geyer and Maggie Kipp will chair the entertaining and lively Celebrity Waiter Luncheon benefiting Family Gateway complete with a silent and live auction featuring celebrities from local business, media, politics, sports and entertainment industries as waiters.
(standing) Jeff Crilley, Victoria Snee, Shay Geyer, Maggie Kipp
A kick-off party was held at DUO tonight to celebrate this upcoming event. So, what interesting tidbits did I glean from the night's attendees? Well.......
Did you know that Victoria Snee was an author?! She and I chatted about her upcoming book signing. She'll be appearing at Stephanie Anne's in Highland Park Village next Thursday from 11 am to 1 pm.
Come meet Victoria and buy a signed copy of Snee's book "The Beauty Buzz. No More Beauty B.S." If you're unable to come by, don't worry! I sweet-talked Victoria into giving me a signed copy of her book that I will be giving away on this blog in the next few weeks!!
D'Andra Simmons was excited to point me to her Facebook Page to check out the sexy new photos just taken for an upcoming marketing campaign for her skincare line, Hard Night, Good Morning. All I have to say after seeing them, is "WOW. Gimme some of that stuff!"
One of my favorite labels is Alice + Olivia. Alison Volk was totally stoked to invite me (and all of you) to see their latest collection at Tootsie's tomorrow - Thursday, June 2 - at a reception hosted by Dallas Summer Musicals honoring members of Center Stage from 6-8 PM.
I had a great time swooning over talking to Hunter Sullivan. He'll be performing at the launch of Bailey's Prime Plus new Craft Cocktail Menu next Tuesday at a soiree that I will be co-hosting at their Park Lane location. Lucky me!
So, what can one expect at the Celebrity Waiter Luncheon this Fall? Each table sponsor will host a table of 10 generous guests who come prepared to tip their waiters with wild abandon and to bid for the extraordinary and unique auction items.
Alison Volk with Chris and Jennifer LeLash
The waiters will seek tips in eccentric ways - pocketing your silverware, withholding your meal, singing, performing and dancing; the antics are endless as waiters will go to great lengths to raise the most money during 90 action-packed minutes. This fierce competition between waiters results in important funds being raised for Family Gateway.
For more information about how to get your tickets to this funtastic event, visit Family Gateway.
Pack up a picnic, grab a blanket and enjoy the beautiful summer weather at The Shops at Park Lane each Friday evening in June for Movies Under The Moon, a free outdoor movie series featuring your favorite family-friendly films throughout the decades.
Get there early, as Whole Foods Market will be providing arts and crafts giveaways for kids before the movie begins. What better way to spend your summer evenings than by enjoying the warm weather with friends, family, food, wine and a great movie outside?
The Shops at Park Lane are located at 8070 Park Lane, Suite 100, Dallas, TX 75240
Southeast Corner of Park Lane and Central Expressway across from NorthPark Mall.
I am a big proponent of recycling and eco-friendly products. But I haven't given the concept much thought as it pertains to my wardrobe - until I stumbled across Naya Shoes at a recent event.
Naya means "renewal" and the company was born from the belief that shoes should be beautiful on your feet, soft on your step and gentle on the environment. Each Naya shoe is crafted using vegetable-tanned leathers and linings and natural or recycled content fabrics. And because preserving our planet should be important to all of us, they choose materials that reduce environmental impact whenever possible.
You will buy Naya shoes because they are beautiful, but you will love them because they are good for your body, spirit and the earth. You can find Naya designs locally at Dillards at Northpark or Nordstrom at the Galleria. Or there's always my favorite option, online shopping.
Here's my favorite pick from their Summer Collection:
