Shop Local/Shop Smart: Working It Out by Abby Rike

Oh So Cynthia is about showcasing the city of Dallas and what makes it a fabulous place to live.  Although I love the luxe life, I'm a girl with champagne tastes on a soda-pop budget, so I am all about smart shopping.  Throughout the holiday season, I will be bringing you a series of posts that will combine both of these concepts called Shop Local/Shop Smart, bringing you great gift ideas for under $200 from local designers and retailers.

Today's feature is for the person in your life who might be struggling to find themselves, who is trying to get to a better place in their life, who needs some hope, motivation or encouragement that anything is possible and life can get better when you set your sights on a goal and start moving towards it, one step at a time. Abby Rike is from Mabank, TX (so she's from the area!) and I first heard her story three years ago when she appeared on one of my favorite TV shows, The Biggest Loser.  Her story has moved and motivated thousands of people. I know it will touch the life of anyone you share her story with.

Working It Out by Abby Rike

In 2006, Abby Rike lost the life she knew and loved when her husband, 5 year old daughter and 2 week old son were killed in a car accident. Devastated and numb, she shut down. For nearly three years she walked through life like a spectre, present in body only. As she descended into darkness, so did her health, as she turned to food for comfort. 

Fortunately, Abby was not alone. She had loving parents, supportive friends, and a faith that continued to sustain her. Little by little she found the courage to return to life. Deciding there was more living to do in this life, in May of 2009, Abby embarked on a very public journey of healing and wellness when she went on NBC’s hit reality series “The Biggest Loser.”

Abby began her journey on the show weighing in at 247 pounds.  Despite suffering a stress fracture early on, while on the “ranch” she lost 46 pounds.  She then went home utilizing the knowledge she gained and lost an additional 54 pounds to weigh in at 147 pounds at the December finale.  Abby feels blessed to have had the opportunity to realize God’s grace full circle and feels compelled to share with others what she experienced firsthand.  She continues her healthy lifestyle and vigor for life and is a living example that even in your darkest hour, there is always hope. 

In this riveting book, Abby tells her story--from her joyous life before the accident to the unbearable pain that followed it and her eventual emergence as a woman reinvigorated by her faith in God. Today Abby's resilience and positivity are a testament to the power and importance of faith in the darkest hours. 

Available at Walmart or online at Amazon  (on sale now for $11.57) 

Shop Local/Shop Smart: DJ Lucy Wrubel's 'Mix of the Month' Club

Oh So Cynthia is about showcasing the city of Dallas and what makes it a fabulous place to live.  Although I love the luxe life, I'm a girl with champagne tastes on a soda-pop budget, so I am all about smart shopping.  Throughout the holiday season, I will be bringing you a series of posts that will combine both of these concepts called Shop Local/Shop Smart, bringing you great gift ideas for under $200 from local designers and retailers.

Today's feature is for the music lover on your holiday list:

DJ Lucy Wrubel's 'Mix of the Month' Club

Cynthia with Lucy Wrubel

DJ Lucy Wrubel knows music like no one else does. When I walk into an event and see Lucy at the turntable, I know its going to be a good night!  Earlier this year, Lucy launched her Mix of the Month music club to share her unique tastes and rockin' grooves with us all.  The cost is $144 for the year (one time payment up front).

Lucy's website proclaims, "Even more intoxicating that a wine of the month club, Mix of the Month delivers 80-minute doses of great music to your inbox all year.  And not just any music.  Selections of tunes hand-picked and artfully assembled by DJ Lucy alone.  Mix of the Month puts Lucy's special spin on the nostalgic mix tape."

Every month you will receive collectible, download-n-print cover art, themed party playlists to serve up and play at any event and special edition mailings in your inbox with everything from custom art, and bonus playlists, liner notes and hits from Lucy on the road.

Available online at www.mixofthemonth.biz.

Note: you'll need to have an iTunes account to purchase and download music on the Mix of The Month playlists each month

Shop Local/Shop Smart: Amanda Sterett Jewelry

Oh So Cynthia is about showcasing the city of Dallas and what makes it a fabulous place to live.  Although I love the luxe life, I'm a girl with champagne tastes on a soda-pop budget, so I am all about smart shopping.  Throughout the holiday season, I will be bringing you a series of posts that will combine both of these concepts called Shop Local/Shop Smart, bringing you great gift ideas for under $200 from local designers and retailers.
Today's feature is local jewelry designer, Amanda Sterett

Here are a few of my favorite looks under $200 that any gal would be thrilled to find in her stocking:



             Nikki Earring ($145)             Emma Earring ($170)

           Frances Earring ($160)           Penny Bangle ($195)

Amanda prides herself on ‘cherry-picking’ the best stones for her work. From all parts of the world, stone is selected and two collections per year are born. Over 250 pieces make up each collection and are displayed on this site. All stone is natural and either precious or semi-precious. All wire used in the making is either 14K gold-filled or sterling silver material, including the signature necklace tags. All jewelry is handmade in a studio in Dallas, Texas, upon receipt of order. They are able to accommodate those that require 14K gold hooks for allergenic purposes, or posts for earrings.

The Livvy Necklace ($65) benefits Children's Cancer Fund with $20 from every sale! The chain is gold which is the color for childhood cancer. The hand wrapped round orange carnelian stones are the color of CCF's logo.

You can find Amanda's jewelry in local stores like Melanie Gayle, Stephanie Anne, Sussie's and The Shak at Stanley Korshak, or you can order online at http://www.amandasterett.com.

Great Mom Tip #128: I do not cook. I cater.

HP 6th grade Lacrosse Team

I consider myself a resourceful Mommy.

No, I do not turn old spaghetti jars into crafty vases or use old socks to make puppets and Christmas wreaths. I'm not that kind of Mom. I use technology to do it all. Technology is my friend.

My son had a lacrosse tournament last weekend. It was waaaaaaaaaay out in the sticks (north of 635) and he played 6 games on Saturday starting at 9 AM. I got home at 6:30 PM. Then we got to wake up on Sunday and do it all over again.  Whee!

At these tournaments, each school or team usually has a tent to call home base. All of the parents sign up to contribute something to the tent for everyone to snack throughout the day.

You can see by my photo the wide assortment of "food" that we usually end up with: Cheez-Its, trail mix, power bars, chips, cookies, bagels, Rice Krispie Treats... and there's always fruit (that never gets eaten by the kids). 

On The Border Mexican Grill and Cantina had given me a catering voucher and asked me to use it to host a party.  They have partnered with local bloggers for this promotion to showcase the variety of ways they could help make any party better.  I couldn't think of a better way to use it than to have hot tacos catered to this tournament. I went online, placed my order and their Catering van drove it right to the fields where we were playing and delivered it. It. Was. Awesome!

My plan was for the boys to be able to get some protein in them since they were playing six back-to-back games. I guess I shouldn't have been surprised that with so much junk food available, they all went for the Rice Krispie Treats and donuts. But, the parents LOVED the brisket burritos I had ordered and they were devoured in a matter of minutes.

Food is one of the most crucial elements to making any function a success.  I will definitely be using On The Border for Catering again. The ordering process was easy, it was delivered right on time, they helped me set it up, and almost every person who ate the food asked me where it came from because those brisket burritos were so good. 

If you've been following my recent blog posts, you will note that I have been promoting shopping local vendors this holiday season. I would be remiss if I didn't point out that while On The Border is a nationwide chain, their corporate office is located right here in Dallas! I call that a win-win!


This post is sponsored by On The Border. While I received a catering voucher for authoring this post; product selections, descriptions, and opinions are 100% my own. Interested in sponsoring a post? Contact me for rates and details.

Shop Local/Shop Smart: Cykochik Custom Bags

Oh So Cynthia is about showcasing the city of Dallas and what makes it a fabulous place to live. From food to fashion, reality TV to movie premiers, cultural events to business deals, this city is happening and the people who live and create here are affecting change, not only in our city, but all around the world! I'm a girl with champagne tastes on a soda-pop budget, so I am all about smart shopping.  Throughout the holiday season, I will be bringing you a series of posts that will combine both of these concepts - Shop Local/Shop Smart - bringing you great gift ideas for under $200 from local designers and businesses.

Today's feature is local bag designer:   Cykochik

Nikki Duong Koenig, is a young designer with a fresh vision and an eye for detail, who created Cykochik to showcase her personal fashion designs and artwork.  The label's name, pronounced (psycho'-chick) derived from the words, "cycle" + "chick" because everything in life has a cycle–especially in fashion, where styles and trends are in a constant state of reinvention.

While the label has grown over the years, the philosophy and idealistic approach remain the same in a world of mass production. Cykochik fervently believes in individualism and the freedom to express it; without endangering others in the process. All bags are made of animal & eco-friendly vinyl and are 100% sweatshop-free.

She has several different collections, but my favorite is the "Portrait Tote Collection" which allows you to take a treasured photograph and have the image drawn and hand-cut onto a tote bag. There are 3 different styles of bags to select from (starting at $180) and a myriad of colors combinations for you to create the perfect bag!  The only down-side is that it's a 3-4 week delivery, so if you want one of these for the holidays, you need to book it NOW.

Every bag is handcrafted by Koenig and her team of skilled artisans in Dallas, TX. and while you can find her work at local stores like Indie Genius and The McKinney Ave. Contemporary (The MAC), the Portrait Tote Collection needs to be ordered online at http://custom-handbags.com/.

Shop Local/Shop Smart: Deb It Card

Oh So Cynthia is about showcasing the city of Dallas and what makes it a fabulous place to live. From food to fashion, reality TV to movie premiers, cultural events to business deals, this city is happening and the people who live and create here are affecting change, not only in our city, but all around the world! I'm a girl with champagne tastes on a soda-pop budget, so I am all about smart shopping.  Throughout the holiday season, I will be bringing you a series of posts that will combine both of these concepts - Shop Local/Shop Smart - bringing you great gift ideas for under $200 from local designers and businesses.

Today's feature is a gift to buy yourself, that will allow you to save money on gifts for others from local retailers, while raising funds for a great charity. It's a triple WIN!  It's the Deb It Card:

Organizers of the 26th annual Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s Debutante Presentation Ball have created a unique way for music lovers to support the Symphony while shopping for everything from necessities to luxury items.

“We are thrilled to announce the debut of the DSO Deb It Card supported by a stellar group of local merchants to help us raise much needed funds for our beloved orchestra,” says Presentation Ball Chairman Lillie Young.  “Supporters and shoppers can now purchase the card for $65 that allows them 10-20% discounts at leading local merchants with every dollar going direct to the symphony.  Card holders can enjoy these special discounts at participating merchants through February 29, 2012.”

According to Deb It Card Chairman Dona Robinson, the following merchants are participating:  Adeline, Apricot Lane Boutique, Avant Garden, Bachrach, The Blues Jean Bar, Calame Jewelers, Charis Portrait Studio, Christy M. Boutique, Dallas Fine Wine & Spirits, Dr. Delphinium Designs & Events, Epic Apparel, Facelogic Spa (Highland Park), Francesca's Collections, The Gypsy Wagon, Hemline, Hotel Palomar, Judith Ripka, Lash Studio, Luxury on Lovers, Madison Gifts, Michael Kors, Mister Tuxedo, Oscar de la Renta, Paper and Chocolate, Rich Hippie, Rutherford’s, Spa at the Crescent, stelladallas, St. John Boutique, Susan Saffron Fine Jewelry, Terry Costa, Toni & Guy, Trina Turk, Turtletique, and Versace USA.

To purchase cards, log onto the DSOL website: http://www.dallassymphonyleague.com.

Why I Love Dallas (video)

I love this new video produced for the Dallas CVB and created by my friends at You+Media.  Click the icon in the bottom right of the video box that looks like four arrows to watch this in full-screen mode.

Click here to watch this video on YouTube.

Doesn't our city look amazing!?  I am thankful to live in such an amazing city. I am thankful for all of you who support and encourage me with your comments on these posts. I am so thankful that people are having fun following my journey as I seek to discover the places and people that make Dallas one of the best city's on the planet.  Happy Thanksgiving!

A Night of Stars and Fashion with FGI

Cynthia Smoot & LeeAnne Locken

Terri Provencal of Provencal Consulting and Maxine Trowbridge of PinkMemo, co-chaired the annual ‘Night of Stars’ award gala, presented by Fashion Group International of Dallas on Friday, November 18th at the Dallas Market Center, The Grand Pavilion at the Trade Mart.

The 2011 A Night of Stars paid special tribute in honor of Shelly Musselman the Founder of Forty Five Ten.  The runway show was produced by Jan Strimple and featured an opening selection from the Shirin Askari Fall 2011 Collection, with a grand finale carefully curated by co-founder of Forty Five Ten, Brian Bolke, presenting rare museum-worthy pieces from Ms. Musselman’s closet.

Tony & Tamara Casillas with Janet & Rick Fresquez

Dancing to the tunes from D.J. Lucy Wrubel—this year’s philanthropic Fashion Police, include eight individuals who strutted their stuff on the runway, in recognition of their individual contributions to the FGI Dallas scholarship fund.

Johnny & Carley Seale      James Valenti & Mina Chang      Chris Baldwin & Shirin Askari

Judy & Jane Aldridge

My dates for the evening were LeeAnne Locken and Steve Kemble - two of the most fun and outrageous people I know! My stomach hurt at the end of the night from laughing so much!  I was lucky enough to sit at the table of my friends, Rick and Janet Fresquez, to cheer on their son Jarrod as he grooved down the runway as one of this year's Fashion Police.

Click to view more photos from this event on Facebook

As we were walking into the gala, we encountered a camera crew there to film an episode of Big Rich Texas. They were about to shoot cast members, Connie Dieb and Melissa Poe, walking into the event. They asked me, Steve Kemble and Janet Fresquez if we would trail behind them as they entered. Of course, we happily complied.  We will see if that actually makes it into the episode!

The FGI Night of Stars Gala is always one of my favorite events. Anytime you are attending a fashion industry event, the ladies are guaranteed to turn it out! This year's party was no exception.  Special thanks to Watters for putting me in such a gorgeous gown, to Uptown Consignment for letting me wear a vintage mink stole and to SWAG for loaning me amazing jewelry from Virgins, Saints & Angels. I felt like a Grecian goddess!

CAREER ACHIEVEMENT

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Lifetime Achievement in Fashion: Shelly Musselman - Founder, Forty Five Ten
Lifestyle Achievement Award: Alberto Lombardi - Founder of Lombardi Family Concepts
Career Achievement Award in Photography: Tim Boole - Fashion Photographer.

RISING STARS

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Fashion Design: Shirin Askari – Designer of Shirin Askari.
Jewelry Design: Elizabeth Showers – Founder of Elizabeth Showers Jewelry.
Beauty: D’Andra Simmons – Founder Hard Night Good Morning Skin Care.
Fashion Communication: Jane Aldridge – Founder of SeaofShoes.com Blog.
Retail: Carley Seale – Founder of The Gypsy Wagon.

FASHION POLICE:

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Cathy Williamson, Jarrod Fresquez, Mina Chang, Pamela Martin Duarte, Sarah Blacketer, Scott Kehn, Suraj Jagannathan, Susan Posnick.


About FGI
The Fashion Group International is a global, non-profit, professional organization with 5000 members in the fashion industry including apparel, accessories, beauty and home. The FGI mission is to be the pre-eminent authority on the business of fashion and design and to help its members become more effective in their careers. To do this, FGI provides insights on major trends in person, online and in print; access to business professionals and a gateway to the influence fashion plays in the marketplace.

Shop Local/Shop Smart: F. is For Frank Jewelry

Oh So Cynthia is about showcasing the city of Dallas and what makes it a fabulous place to live. From food to fashion, reality TV to movie premiers, cultural events to business deals, this city is happening and the people who live and create here are affecting change, not only in our city, but all around the world! I'm a girl with champagne tastes on a soda-pop budget, so I am all about smart shopping.  Throughout the holiday season, I will be bringing you a series of posts that will combine both of these concepts - Shop Local/Shop Smart - bringing you great gift ideas for under $200 from local designers and businesses.

Today's feature is local jewelry design company: 

f. is for frank

f. is for frank was established in 2007 and is a collaboration between Shoshannah Frank and Casey Melton. In 2009, the duo decided to take a departure from designing custom architectural elements and created a line of jewelry. f. is for frank’s handmade collection of jewelry has a textural, sculptural and modern feel that is derived from the artists’ background in designing and manufacturing architectural elements. While their jewelry reflects organic shapes and objects in nature, they also enjoy making a huge statement with scale.

While I love a lot of their designs, I am a sucker for anything you can personalize. Here are a couple of my favorite options from their current collection:

Custom Ring  ($85)

This statement ring allows you to say whatever you want!  It includes a custom hand stamped date, name or word (maximum 10 letters).

 Examples: (pronounce your love (A+C), wedding date (7.1.06), son or daughter's name (WALKER), new last name (MRS. MELTON) or status (SINGLE)....say what you want!

Me + You Necklace  ($62)

Another way to say I Love You!
The pewter plate is 1 3/4 long and 3/8 wide.
Includes 16in silver chain.

When ordering, please include the names you want stamped on the front in the comment section.  Want to include a message on the back....like a date?  Add handstamping for just $10!

You can find their baubles locally at boutiques like We are 1976 and  Indigo 1745 or peruse their entire line online at http://fisforfrank.com

Shop Local/Shop Smart: Society Stylist Survival Kit

Oh So Cynthia is about showcasing the city of Dallas and what makes it a fabulous place to live. From food to fashion, reality TV to movie premiers, cultural events to business deals, this city is happening and the people who live and create here are affecting change, not only in our city, but all around the world! I'm a girl with champagne tastes on a soda-pop budget, so I am all about smart shopping.  Throughout the holiday season, I will be bringing you a series of posts that will combine both of these concepts - Shop Local/Shop Smart - bringing you great gift ideas for under $200 from local designers and businesses.

Today's featured gifts are from local stylist turned entrepreneur, Valerie Elizabeth:

Society Stylist, Valerie Elizabeth, says she created the Society Stylist Survival Kits after getting such a positive response to the kits she gives her personal styling clients. "We all face our own fashion styling emergencies. I can't tell you how many times a Shout wipe or Instant Stain Removal Pen has saved my blouse after a spill at lunch. My lint roller and deodorant remover sponge have to work overtime to keep my favorite Little Black Dress looking crisp. My must-have survival item? Dryel dry cleaning products; they are the perfect solution when the local dry cleaner is closed."

The Society Stylist Survival Kit

On-The-Go Bag ($50) includes endless solutions to help you survive any fashion styling emergency, and will arrive packaged in a stylish chocolate brown quilted bag by Perricone MD. Whether you need to- sew a button back on at work, freshen your breath after too much garlic at dinner, get a stain off your blazer before an interview, remove cat hair from your black pants, remove deodorant from your Little Black Dress or try to salvage a broken nail- this kit has everything you'll need on-the-go.

Value Box ($75) is a perfect toolkit to help the frugal fashionista survive any fashion styling emergency. This box features a selection of different products to survive those emergency situations where one dreams of having a professional stylist there to help. Some of the kit favorites include wrinkle release spray, bra converter clips that can instantly change a traditional bra to a racer back style, no-stitch tape to fix a fallen hem in just 30 seconds with the help of an iron and the life-changer, a four pack Dryel at home dry cleaning kit, which provides the materials to clean up to 24 garments. The reusable products in this kit will pay for themselves time and time again.

VIP Trunk ($250) is packed with endless items to survive any fashion styling emergency. The trunk contents are patterned after the kits Society Stylist provides to each of their personal styling clients for those moments when a stylist can't be onsite to help. The kit is packaged in a black trunk reminiscent of the traditional vintage train case. It features everything you'll find in the Value Box and so much more. Highlights include special wash bags for lingerie and other delicates, a sweater stone to remove pilling from well-loved sweaters, red wine remover for the unfortunate holiday party faux pas, silver polishing cloths to polish your jewelry, shoe pads for your tired feet, and Dryel at-home dry cleaning products with the potential to clean up to 42 garments.

DOUBLE BONUS: Purchase a Society Stylist Survival Kit: VIP Trunk by December 31, 2011 (or while supplies last) and receive a double bonus!!! With your purchase you will receive a Society Stylist(R) Gift Card good for $50 in services and a Society Stylist Survival Kit: On-The-Go Bag, a $50 value.

The Society Stylist Survival Kits can be ordered online. 

The Pro Artist Group Launches in December 3

Fiona Gorostiza

With an emerging haute fashion scene, many artists look for guidance in their careers, key connections in the industry, and the right places to get their work discovered.  The Pro Artist Group will play an integral part in mentoring artists to increase skill levels, opening artists to a vast network of industry professionals, and frequently hosting events for artists to be discovered.

CEO and Founder The Pro Artist Group/Paige Anderson says “I wanted to formulate a network of seasoned professionals to allow talented, up and coming artists to get their work seen and assist them in the development of a lasting career doing what they love to do. ”

Dallas’s talented artists now have a home of experienced professionals to guide them on their path to become successful photographers, videographers, make-up artists, hairstylists, fashion stylists, and many other prominent positions in the fashion industry.

To launch this new endeavor, The Pro Artist Group approached LeeAnne Locken, Lisa Petty,  Mina Chang, Fiona Gorostiza and myself to appear in a series of photographs that will be used to showcase the talents of the group.  To see the glamorous end results, you can click over to DFW Style Daily and read Lisa's post.  After 2 hours of hair and makeup for my shoot, Paige asked me if I felt glamorous like Rita Hayworth or Dita Von Teese? My reply was that I felt more like Lucille Ball! I am not a model and this shoot was definitely a new experience for me. It takes a village of professionals to make the magic happen, that's for sure!

Funny outtakes from our photo shoots

WHAT?         The Pro Artist Group Launch Party
WHEN?         Saturday, December 3, 2011 
WHERE?      Anderson Studios, 1100 Lupo Drive Dallas, TX 75207

Dallas’s fashionably elite and TV personalities will converge for an unforgettable night of elation, style, networking, and art.  Host, model, and actress LeeAnne Locken will emcee the event and proceeds will benefit Toys For Tots.  The event will feature a fashion presentation by Rovina Outar for LaMére Couture, a celebrity silent auction with Cynthia Smoot, Mina Chang, Fiona Gorostiza and Lisa Petty, as well as a video presentation from The Pro Artist Group.

Tickets are $25 for general admission and $75 for VIP Private Reception which includes complimentary valet, bottle service, VIP bags, and surprise "PAG" presentation. Tickets can be purchased at http://theproartistgroup.eventbrite.com/ until 12 pm Saturday, December 3rd. A portion of all tickets, cigars and silent auction sales will benefit Toys For Tots, and all guests are encouraged to bring "toys for tots."

Shop Local/Shop Smart: Margo's Sea Salt Scrubs

Oh So Cynthia is about showcasing the city of Dallas and what makes it a fabulous place to live. From food to fashion, reality TV to movie premiers, cultural events to business deals, this city is happening and the people who live and create here are affecting change, not only in our city, but all around the world! I'm a girl with champagne tastes on a soda-pop budget, so I am all about smart shopping.  Throughout the holiday season, I will be bringing you a series of posts that will combine both of these concepts - Shop Local/Shop Smart - bringing you great gift ideas for under $200 from local designers and businesses.

Up first is a little something for the girly-girl in your life:

Margo's Sea Salt Scrubs ($34)

In 1999,  Esthetician Margo McIntosh,  was inspired by many of her clients to develop spa style products they could use in the privacy and convenience of their own home and receive the same amazing results they get at a spa without time and scheduling constraints and over-inflated prices. The entire time working in the spa, Margo experimented with what salts worked and which ones didn't and the same for the oils and the fragrances.  From that experience and true interest, Margo created her own Sea Salt Scrub using the best of the best of all 3 ingredients that are in the jar: The best salt, the best oil and the best fragrance.

I am not really a bath person, so I asked regular Guest Contributor, Porsha Thomas, to test out this product for me. Here's her review: 

I'm the kind of girl who needs her bath to relax.  It's seriously been this way since I were about 12. Bath preparation was always the same, I would snoop through my Mom's old school CD collection (the one I wasn't supposed to touch) on the hunt for Etta James, spark my dollar store tea light candles, and relax in my pretend-adulthood game.

Aside from looking all lovely and glowing after my weekly scrub and soak session, I love that Margo's Sea Salt Scrub is made completely of natural ingredients.  Blooming Earth, my fragrance of choice, combines fresh grass, Patchouli, Lavender and Green Tea with ancient sea salt and jojoba oil. The end result is a light "woodsy" scent with a feminine twist, and skin so soft you won't believe!

Margo's Sea Salt Scrubs can be ordered online or found at several local retailers throughout Dallas.

Casting Call: Escape Routes

Ford and the producers of Amazing Race are teaming up for a second season (I never heard anything about the first one!) to bring you an awesome competition show. 6 teams of 2 will be racing across the US for $100,000 and 2 brand new 2013 Ford Escapes using their social media outlets to help them compete in challenges.

Consider yourself socially savvy with a sphere of online influence? Then put your money where your mouth is and get to racing! Interested individuals can reach out to Rane at fordescapecasting@gmail.com

Courtney Kerr named Dress For Success Ambassador for 2012

Dress for Success held their second annual casino night charity event, “Lucky Lonestar,” last Friday night at Zouk Night Club in Dallas.  This jackpot of an event was presented by Katy Messersmith of Katydid Collections. Many of Dallas’ charitable socialites flocked to the scene for a Friday evening of “Vegas-Style” theme featuring casino games, silent auction and raffle, music and more.  Congrats to Courtney Kerr, from Bravo TV's Most Eligible Dallas,who was announced as Dress For Success new Ambassador for 2012.

(top left) Linh Quach with Katy Messersmith  (top right) Sarah Davis with Amir Omar (bottom) Shirin Askari, Courtney Kerr, Matt Nordgren and LeeAnne Locken

Dallas notables Matt Nordgren and Courtney Kerr of Most Eligible Dallas, Shirin Askari of Project Runway Season 6,  City of Richardson Council Member Amir Omar, Vernon Hadnot of D210 TV, FC Dallas’ Soccer Captain Daniel Hernández and model/actress LeeAnne Locken walked the red carpet eager to double down for fashion and charity.

All proceeds benefited Dress for Success Dallas programs, which help women transition towards self-sufficiency by addressing their social and economic needs in relation to work, home and community.

(top left) Royanne Kerr and Barbara Downing (top right) LeeAnne Locken and Shirin Askari playing craps  (bottom left) Courtney Kerr wins big in Blackjack as Shirin Askari looks on  (bottom right) Amber LaFrance, Nicole Hodges and Jarrod Fresquez try their luck at Blackjack

About Dress for Success The mission of Dress for Success is to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.

photos courtesy of Thomas Garza Photography

Attitudes and Attire Kickoff Party

Janet Fresquez and Lyn Berman

The annual Attitudes & Attire Luncheon and Fashion Show will be held on March 2, 2012 in the Grand Pavilion of the Dallas Trade Mart. 

Last week, the charity held a kickoff party at Elements hosted by elements owner, Connie Siegel, and presided over by honorary event chair, Janet Fresquez and Attitudes and Attire Executive Director, Lyn Berman.

The event featured a trunk show by designer Elizabeth Rosbottom and a raffle for a $250 Elements gift card with proceeds going  to the charity.

Click here to view photos from this event on Facebook

What's your favorite attitude on a woman? That's the question that LeeAnne Locken was asking as she wandered the venue, microphone in hand and camera man in tow.  Everyone's answers will be made into a series of videos used to promote the March luncheon in the upcoming months. So, what was my answer? You'll have to wait and see!

(top left) Allison Volk and David Call  (top right)  Connie Segal and Elizabeth Rosbottom  (bottom) Janet Fresquez, LeeAnne Locken, Jocelyn White and Dee Simmons

 Attitudes & Attire™ is a nonprofit agency dedicated to promoting personal growth for women seeking self-sufficiency. Their program provides the tools that raise self-esteem, promote ethics, and build the confidence necessary to succeed in the workplace.  Attitudes & Attire offers interpersonal skills training for women who are building better lives for themselves and their families.

The workshops help women learn how to recognize their self-worth, create a positive image, overcome barriers, and improve job search skills. The agency also provides a work-appropriate outfit of the woman’s choice from its boutique, which is stocked with donations from local retailers, manufacturers, individuals, and corporate clothing drives.

photos courtesy of James Edward Photography

Gilt City partners with NTFB to wipe out hunger this Thanksgiving

Gilt City Dallas has partnered with the North Texas Food Bank to offer members the opportunity to pledge their time to the cause in person. They will also have options available for members to donate directly if they cannot manage volunteering.

Option 1: $16 donation to purchase a turkey to feed a family

Option 2: $50 donation to provide a complete holiday meal for 150 people

Volunteer Event: On December 3rd Gilt volunteers will sort food drive items, assemble Food 4 Kids backpacks and fill boxes for  senior feeding programs

Beginning this Thursday, November 17^th, volunteers can go to www.giltcity.com/dallas to lock-in their spot for the event or donate to the cause. In addition, donations will be prompted through Gilt City’s national Facebook Page!

Save the Date: The PRO Network Group makes their Dallas debut December 3

Although there is much that I love and appreciate about being a woman of today, if I could pick an era to flash back to for a visit, it would be the late 1940s. I love the glamorous clothes, the big cars, red lipstick and high heels, men wearing hats, MGM musicals, Frank Sinatra crooning, the Veronica Lake hair and yes, even cigarettes. That era was sublime.

So, I was thrilled when The PRO Artist Group asked me to be on the host committee for their December 3 launch party and participate in a themed photo shoot. I was even more excited when I found out that their vision for my shoot was a 1940s pin up girl.

Dolce & Gabbana dress and Stuart Weitzman shoes from Uptown Consignment Fine Apparel

Right before I went on set, my make-up artist, Paige Anderson, asked me if I felt like Dita Von Teese. My response was that I felt more like Lucille Ball.  Having never done a professional shoot before (outside of a Glamor Shots experience in the 1990s) I went into the experience with more than a little trepidation. But, as I told the event organizers, "I have seen every episode of America's Next Top Model, so I know how to 'smize' and do the 'booty tooch' Let's do this!"  You can see my booty tooch in action in the above shot.

Stay tuned for Friday's post about The PRO Artist Group. I will explain their mission and give you all the details on their launch party. For now, just mark the night of December 3 in your calendar!  It will be one swell soiree!

Texas Multi Mamas debuts December 27

Texas is smokin' hot right now in the reality TV world. We've seen shows about what's it's like to be single and looking for love in Big D with Most Eligible Dallas and the A List Dallas. We've seen what's it like to be a socialite at the Country Club in Big Rich Texas.  Now, it's time for Motherhood to get its turn in the spotlight. And these aren't just any Moms!

WE tv's new series Texas Multi Mamas is an energetic look inside the lives of a group of Texas women with big personalities, staunch opinions, and wild lives as they support each other in their moms of multiples group.

Although the show is called Texas Mutli Mamas, it should have been called Dallas Multi Mamas because all of the stars of this new show are from our own backyard! Tonia lives in Plano, Candace lives in Dallas, Suz lives in Ft. Worth, Teryn lives in McKinney, Casey lives in Murphy and Stephanie lived in Allen (when the show filmed - sounds like she has since moved).

One of my dearest friends has twins and my old boss from D Magazine has triplets - so I have heard many a story about the trials and tribulations of raising multiples. Of course, they also get twice (or thrice) the rewards for their hard work! This sounds like a fun, family show and I am looking forward to supporting my fellow Mamas!

Texas Multi Mamas will premiere on the WE tv network on December 27 at 7 PM.

Follow the show on Twitter at #TexasMM

Nominations for Fresh Faces of Fashion 2012 are Underway

Yvonne Crum is the creator of the Fresh Faces of Fashion program.  She's a rock star on the Dallas social scene and whether you're 25 or 65, Yvonne is on everyone's speed dial for her enthusiasm, lively personality, generous spirit and huge heart. I love this event and the people behind it, so I asked Yvonne to explain what this was all about.

Yvonne says, "Many years ago, I lost a dear friend to suicide, and I was amazed me how much it affected me. I was asked by the Suicide and Crisis Center to help them raise funds for Survivors of Suicide and Teens Can Survive, two of their special programs, with which I was all too familiar.

I replied that I would love to, but that it might be difficult to blend the topic of suicide with a fundraiser. I asked that they let me pick the theme and suggested that it have something to do with fashion.

I went to Modern Luxury Dallas and presented my proposal to Terri Provencal (who was Publisher at the time), which was to have the readers of Modern Luxury Dallas select 12 young women that would help raise awareness of the Suicide and Crisis Center. We would feature them in the magazine, have a gala fashion show, a wonderful raffle and raise much needed funds.  

I stressed that we would never lose our message, "helping those in crisis, especially suicidal crisis, find hope for the future.” Terri took a chance on me and the idea, presented it to Stanley Korshak and Park Place Motorcars Dallas. The event was a success from the beginning and has grown every year."

I think it speaks volumes that all of the original sponsors are still with this event which is headed into its sixth year. And to date, the Fresh Faces of Fashion events have raised over a million dollars for the Suicide and Crisis Center, due in large part to the passion and dedication of Yvonne Crum (although she will argue loudly with me on that point).

Modern Luxury Dallas needs your help to select a group of style-setters for 2012 whose chic fashion sense is only matched by their dedication to the community.  Click here for an entry form. Entries must be received by November 30, 2011.

Jean Paul Gaultier: From the Catwalk to the Sidewalk

Today was an extraordinary day. I got to meet Jean Paul Gaultier and preview his exhibition, "Jean Paul Gaultier: From the Catwalk to the Sidewalk" which debuts to the public on November 13 at the Dallas Museum of Art.  The exhibit is remarkable. Witty, complex, engaging and full of life, it is one of the most spectacular exhibitions of art and fashion that I have ever encountered.

 Gaultier designs | Jean Paul Gaultier signs the podium leading into the exhibit at the DMA

I was going to write my own recap of the press conference, but Jenny Block from the Dallas Observer did such a bang up job, that I am just sharing snippets of her article:

"The mannequins are remarkable. The color of the skin and the shape of their faces. And projected on those faces is film of models and of Gaultier himself. They are talking and singng and blinking and making faces. It's remarkable. Truly remarkable. The designs fill several rooms each with a different title Boudior, Skin Deep, Punk Can Can, Meropolis, Urban Jungle. The first is nautical and under the sea, including a mermaid on crutches.

There is a runway where the "models" move around the oval platform. There are cases above with designs inside. There are drawings and photographs. There are boots made from feathers. There's a jacket with an alligator tail. And there's what looks to be a bride with an Indian headdress.

This was one of my favorite pieces. It's a skeleton corset. I have no idea where one would ever wear this - maybe for a haute couture Halloween ball in Paris - but the craftsmanship is SPECTACULAR.

Click here to view photos from this exhibition on Facebook

Dallas's own fashion icon, Jan Strimple remarked, "Dallas is fashionably on fire! Having Jean Paul Gaultier in our city with his installation at the DMA is accelerating. It's a feast for the eyes and soul. It captures his provocative nature, his proclivity for inclusiveness, and makes the viewer... or shall I say the voyeur... think. Our city has much to be proud of from the generous underwriters, the task force leaders, and the perfectly executed planning from the Dallas Museum of Art."

This was my other favorite dress.  From 40 feet away, it just looks like a nice black dress. But get up close and you will see that those stripes, belt, cuffs and collar are actually comprised of hundreds of small pearlized buttons. Again, the amount of detail is just unbelievable.

Gaultier himself does not necessarily consider fashion art.  "I think my job is to make clothes. Clothes that have to be worn, that have to please. They have to sell. Art is art. It is free. The painter does it all himself. [The designs] are my babies but I also have all my team working together. My vision is the fruit that is happening all around."  I hate to disagree with Monsieur Gaultier...  but in my humble opinion, his clothes are most definitely works of art.  I would love to have one hanging in my house (more specifically, my closet!).

Jean Paul Gaultier: From the Catwalk to the Sidewalk opens November 13, 2011 and will run through February 12, 2012. Tickets are on sale now. For more information, visit the Dallas Museum of Art.

To read Jenny Block's article for the Dallas Observer in its entirety, click here.

From the Catwalk to the Sidewalk: Jean Paul Gaultier

I am giddy that I am about to walk into a preview the Jean Paul Gaultier exhibit at the DMA!

Look for my recap of this ground-breaking exhibit tomorrow! This exhibit opens to the public on November 13, 2011.

Taken at Dallas Museum of Art

Blogger's Are Whores

Yep.  That's what Elaine Liner, theater critic and feature writer for the Dallas Observer, tweeted me yesterday.  But, I've started at the end.  Let's back up a bit to the beginning of the story.

I've had the latest issue of D Magazine on my night stand for a week.  I finally had a few minutes to crack it open and flip through it.  Much to my delight, I came across an article about my friend, Steven Doyle, who is the Editor of CraveDFW.  The tag line for this article was, "How a once-anonymous commenter wheedled his way to an endless buffet of free meals and online celebrity." Okaaaaay. I could tell where this was going 6 words into the piece.

Jason Sheeler wrote, "Upstarts like Doyle have upended the world of food criticism over the last decade, chipping away at mainstream critics’ power base. Legions of iPhone owners now earn press credentials with the snap of a meal in progress. Are online foodies like Doyle and, say, Rachel “Food Bitch” Pinn heroes or villains? Is the new league of online food writers here to democratize criticism? Or are these part-time writers just gluttonous, self-appointed experts seeking comment glory and a free lunch"

The other quote that jumped out from the D Magazine article at me was from an anonymous publicist (shocker) who says, “The freeloading done by these guys infuriates me,” says the publicist, who compares the writers to groupies. But there’s one great thing about the bloggers, says the publicist. “I use them like puppets.”

WOW.

Yesterday, Andrea Grimes at EaterDallas tweeted, "Yikes! @DSideDish says Steven Doyle is a "cheerleader masquerading as reporter".  To which I replied back, "Sounds to me like a traditional journalist is intimidated by the rise of a blogger. The time's, they are a'changing!"  And this is where Elaine jumped in and added:

Oh. No. She. Did'Unt!  

I have already written about my views on Bloggers vs. Journalists.  I don't know any local bloggers who call themselves "experts" as Sheeler asserts.  As a blogger, I am giving you my opinion.  And the PR company or the restauranteur who invited me to come in - asked for it!   So, I tweeted Elaine back to retort, "Most bloggers write for the love of their genre, not for money. You hope all writers have ethics and integrity."

Nancy Nichols in disguise

See, in case you didn't know, how this normally works is that if you are a real food critic like Nancy Nichols for D Magazine, you want to go into a new restaurant all incognito so you get a true experience and they don't fawn all over you.

They go in several times and each time they pay with a credit card under an assumed name or use cash. Then they expense those meals back to their publication for reimbursement. This way their reviews are untainted by favoritism or bias.

Elaine's assertion is that restaurants offer free meals to bloggers to get articles published about them. And that after taking these free meals, bloggers mindlessly write glowing articles about these venues with no real thought to what they are saying because they are so happy they just got a free meal. I can't tell you how insulting her statement is.

Unlike Elaine, most bloggers have other full-time jobs that they do to pay the bills. They blog because they are passionate about a niche: food, arts, parenting, fashion, etc.  It's a labor of love that bloggers pour hours of their heart and soul into, not for the money (what little of it there ever is) but because they love the topic they are covering and it's a creative outlet of expression.

Media preview for Private | Social last month. I attended this event with other bloggers and traditional journalists like Pegasus News, American Airlines Way, Modern Luxury and Paper City. OMG! Real journalists were eating lunch - for free!

Lisa Petty from DFWStyleDaily.com says, "Everyone does the junkets.  I see very little difference between Steven Doyle going to a free luncheon at a new restaurant and Nancy (Nichols) sending her intern, who later writes it up for the blog."

And as for that anonymous publicist - guess what sister - everybody's using everybody to get what they need. If you don't get your clients "press" on a regular basis, you get fired. I can't tell you how many PR firms and marketing people I have begging me to write something - anything - about their client so they can show that they are earning their monthly retainer.  I can't afford to pay for every ticket to every gala and every meal I eat for this site, because I've no one reimbursing me.  It's the circle of life.  Everyone gives. Everyone takes. Everyone wins.

“The local food media now isn’t just D Magazine, Dallas Morning News, and the Observer,” says The Grape owner Brian Luscher (in Sheeler's article), who says he trusts Doyle. “I love that the playing field is wide open and we don’t have to go through the usual channels to get the word out. I know there is some pay to play there. But isn’t that life?”

Yes, Brian. That's life.  (Sigh)  I feel an e-book coming on...