Save the Date: CUSP at Neiman Marcus celebrates Summer Style

Focused on contemporary designers and trends, CUSP is Neiman Marcus' new in-store boutique that includes accessories and shoes, plus offer a selection of lower-priced separates for the fashion forward customer who likes to mix and match the latest trends. Join me for this fabulous soiree to debate the season's latest trends over cocktails!

Please RSVP to rsvpwillowbend@neimanmarcus.com

Neiman Marcus at Willow Bend is located at 2201 Dallas Parkway, Plano, TX 75093

Become a muse for Ashard Richley and view her Pre-Fall Collection 2012

I met designer Ashley Burghardt earlier this year at the Gossip Bar when I was attending an event for the Fresh Faces of Fashion. She was there with PR pro, Alison Volk and as we chatted over cocktails, I couldn't help but notice the cute clutches she and Ali were both carrying (their evil plan to get media attention totally worked). Ashley showed me how the clutch (called The Riley) had two separate pockets and was created to hold an iPad in one pocket and all your lady-stuff in the other. Being a girly-girl who hates big, bulky briefcase bags and a marketer who works in social media and needs to have online access at all times - I was SOLD! I now own The Riley in white and cobalt and get comments and compliments on them every time I carry the clutch.

When I found out that Burghardt had also recently appeared on the new Lifetime show, 24 Hour Catwalk (and won!) I knew she was someone I had to get to know better. I profiled her earlier this year in a Dallas Dweller feature and always enjoy running into her at events and parties.

Imagine my SHOCK when she told me that she had named a piece in her upcoming Ashard Richley Pre-Fall Collection after me. WOW! I don't think I've ever been more flattered. All pieces are for sale on her website and there are only 50 pieces per item available so ORDER NOW!!

The Cynthia:  The sophisticated neckline and neutral color give a classy appearance while maintaining visual interest with the subtle pop of color and exaggerated flow of the sleeves.  This product is made from the finest cotton lace and designed, cut and sewn in Dallas making this product 100% American made. Available in cream for $250.

When I asked why she named this particular piece of the Collection after me Burghardt said, "You scream class with flair to me. That's why I named the super chic cotton lace poncho dress after you. The dress has a classic feel with the lace and fit yet it's bold and beautiful…Just like you !"

The Amy:  Named for vivacious morning talk-show host, Amy Vanderoef, this high-low dress creates a trendy, chic look without loosing the undeniable comfort of a jersey cotton ensemble. Ideal for a variety of occasions. This product is cotton jersey and comes in cream or plum for $185.

Burghardt says of this design, "Amy Vanderoef  is always wearing fun dresses on Good Morning Texas and has such a playful personality. That's why I named the Amy dress after her. It's fun and flirty and can be worn for so many things."

The Lisa: Named for my good friend Lisa Petty, editor of DFW Style Daily, this trouser features a classic 50's high-waisted cut with a 70's style wide leg- fashion for the bold. The combination of vibrant color and sleek silhouette will leave you anything but unnoticed. This product is 100% silk and comes in celedon or cobalt for $280. If you'd prefer, take one home in a cream lace for $250.

"Lisa Petty is tall, slender, and such a chic dresser. I love a wide leg on a tall woman, so the Lisa pant in the vintage cotton lace and silk was a no-brainer," claims Berghadrt.

The Priya:  Cut outs are all the rage and this blouse is inspired by the adorable and always chic, Priya Rathod, Contributor for DFW Style Daily. The high-low Priya top takes this trend to a new level of sophistication. This product is 100% silk with 100% cotton lace.  Available in a floral print, coral or cream for $140.

 "Priya Rathod has a vibrant personality and always wears great color," says Burghardt, "When she was interviewing me, we kept talking about how much we love flowy high/low tops. That's when I knew I had to name the Priya top after her. It's colorful and flowy!"

There are several new handbags in the new line that are sure to be seen about town this Fall. Who doesn't love a great clutch and these are affordable, trendy and come in a variety of color combinations:

Busta ($200)

Futo ($175)

I know. You're thinking, "How completely awesome would it be to have a designer name a piece after ME!?" Well, get ready kid. Dreams can come true.  Ashard Richley is holding a "Leave Your Stitch" contest and the winner will tour of the Ashard Richley studio, get a VIP night on the town with the designer herself and name a piece in an upcoming collection after you.  Good luck!

How to Celebrate Independence Day in Dallas

Whether you are headed to the lake for a day of boating, a pool party with friends and an afternoon of hot dogs and cold beer or just over to the local park for a neighborhood parade, the Dallas area will be offering a wide variety of options to help you celebrate Independence Day. 

So, let's kick this party post off with a contest!

Kaboom Town!®  in Addison has generously donated a $50 gift card to BJ’s Brewhouse and a $50 gift card to Nate’s Seafood and Steaks so you can enjoy dinner before their big event! To register to win one of these 2 prizes, just leave a comment below and tell me what your favorite part of celebrating Independence Day is! I will pick two winners at random on Sunday, July 1 at 5PM.

They say everything is bigger and better in Texas, and never is that more true than when Addison, Texas hosts its legendary Kaboom Town!® fireworks display. Every July 3 a half-million guests from across the nation come to celebrate American Independence in a style that is uniquely Addison. The Independence Day celebration features world-class fireworks, food, and live music. Plus, all await the Addison Airport Airshow featuring a special fly-over of historic airplanes presented by the Cavanaugh Flight Museum and featuring Matt Younkin’s Magic by Moonlight. Afterwards, attendees are invited to enjoy a fantastic after party featuring North Texas’ most popular party band, Emerald City, on the Dos Equis Main Stage while area traffic calms.

WHEN: Tuesday, July 3, 2012, 5:00 p.m. – midnight (all times are approximate)

• 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. Live entertainment on the Dos Equis Main Stage, Games in Family Fun Zone
• 7:00 pm – Addison Airport Airshow
• 9:30 pm – Fireworks show, presented by Time Warner Cable with simulcast on 100.3 Jack FM
• 10:00 – 11:30 p.m. – After Party featuring Emerald City on the Dos Equis Main Stage

WHERE: Addison Circle Park, 4970 Addison Circle Drive, Addison, Texas 75001

Memorable views can be found from anywhere in Addison but the special watching parties hosted by many of Addison’s more than 170 restaurants and hotels offer spectators a unique viewing experience. A complete list of participating restaurants will be available on the website closer to the event.

TRAFFIC NOTES: The popularity of the Kaboom Town!® fireworks show may cause some traffic delays, specifically following the fireworks show. Spectators are encouraged to spend the night in Addison at any of our hotels, stay in Addison Circle Park for the after party to avoid these delays, or remain at their favorite restaurant. Those who choose to leave immediately after the fireworks show are encouraged to travel as directed for a few miles beyond Addison’s borders in order to travel in their desired direction.

COST: FREE – both the Kaboom Town!® watch party and after party.

The Harbor Freedom Fest 2012 Celebration in Rockwall will be held on Sunday, July 1st from 5 - 10 pm. It will include everything Americana and will feature great vendors, live music, entertainment and of course a gorgeous fireworks show! All with beautiful Lake Ray Hubbard as the back drop.  For more info., visit http://www.theharboratrockwall.com/

For an old-fashioned neighborhood parade, you cannot beat the Park Cities Parade to be held on the morning of Wednesday, July 4th.  Participant line-up for the parade starts at 7:30 a.m. on Euclid Avenue near the Highland Park Town Hall and ends at the City of University Park City Hall. The parade will begin at 9:00 a.m. with family style activities at Goar Park starting around 9:30.  There is no admission charge.  For route information, visit the Rotary Club site.

Billed as the City of Dallas’ official Independence Day celebration, MetroPCS Fair Park Fourth will feature fireworks from inside the historic Cotton Bowl, a Dallas Wind Symphony patriotic performance, reduced admission to Fair Park’s museums from 4:30 – 7:30 p.m., “dancing water” shows at the Esplanade Fountain, carnival games and more from 4:30 – 10 p.m. on Wednesday, July 4. Admission is free.

Lone Star Park in conjunction with the City of Grand Prairie will host the annual Lone Stars & Stripes Fireworks Celebration on Wednesday, July 4. The gates open at 3:00 p.m. and live racing begins at 5:00 p.m. Kids will enjoy the Family Fun Park featuring bounce houses, pony rides, and a petting zoo. Following the last race there will be a spectacular, 20-minute firework display choreographed to music. Members of any branch of the military receive free general admission with a valid military I.D.  As part of the holiday celebration, all guests will receive a contest entry form at the admission gates for a chance to win Lone Star Park’s trip giveaway (must be 21 to enter).

WHEN:
Wednesday July 4 (Gates open – 3:00 p.m.)

WHERE:
Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie, 1000 Lone Star Parkway, Grand Prairie, TX 75050
972-263-RACE (7223)

GOD BLESS AMERICA, EVERYONE!!!

Behind the scenes with CMT's "Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team"

There are a handful of iconic images that come to mind when you say the word DALLAS: Southfork Ranch, Big Tex at the State Fair, cowboy boots, the Dallas Cowboys... and of course, the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders.  CMT has spent the last six years documenting the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders tryouts in a reality series called Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team.

Back for a seventh season, I was invited to attend a rehearsal and check out what goes into filming this show.  I was going to be in Vail for this opportunity, but fortunately for me, Brittany Husted was eager to fill in for me. Seems her Mama was an infamous Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader back in the day, so who better to take the lead on this one!? Here's her report:

CMT was on location at Gilley’s in Dallas to get some footage for the upcoming Season 7 of Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team, and guess who got to be right in the middle of all the action? Yep, that’s right…yours truly! I got to kick off the evening by interviewing 5 cheerleaders: 2 alumni and 3 “newbies”.  I’m not going to lie, I was pretty intimidated by these fabulously fit chicks, but they were all super nice and did I say…FABULOUS!

I asked the girls to tell me a little about the whole process of becoming a cheerleader and let me say, it ain’t a piece of cake! Over 400 girls will begin this process.  They get one minute of improv dancing to impress the judges and get to the next round. After several grueling practices, Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader Director Kelli Finglass and highly acclaimed choreographer Judy Trammel make cuts and narrow it down to 42 girls. I asked if there were lots of cat fights with so many girls vying for thee coveted spots and they said, “No, not really. We are all one big family and we have the utmost respect for each other. This process actually brings us closer together and we develop really strong bonds.” 

I wanted to know what they did during their downtown and Brittany, one of the alumni cheerleaders, filled me in, “We really don’t have any downtime. When we are not practicing, we are either going to school or working - which is a requirement for all cheerleaders.”

Trammel and Finglass

After my interview with the girls I went to the next room to meet with the infamous coaches, Kelli and Judy. Now I know I said I was intimidated before, but now I was just plain scared! I have seen Kelli and Judy on TV and they are pretty fierce, but lucky for me the cameras hadn’t started rolling yet.

I asked them what their favorite part of creating the team was, and both agreed that it was being able to mentor the girls and watch them evolve in to strong, determined, confident women. Kelli and Judy also both agreed that the hardest part was cutting girls from the roster. “You never want to be the one responsible for crushing someone’s lifelong dream.”

I had time for one more question before the girls came out for practice so I made sure it was a good one. “What kinds of drama can we expect from Season 7?”   Their response was, “Well, you’ll have to wait and see!”

When the interviews were complete I got to sit back, relax, and watch some of the routines being performed. Little did I know that I would be completely exhausted after watching their performances. I never knew dancing and smiling required so much effort! Keep your eyes open for Season 7 and maybe you will even get a quick glimpse of me!

Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team, Season 7 will debut September 27, 2012on CMT.

Click here to see a gallery of photos from this event on Facebook.  Photos: Shana Anderson

Brittany attended Texas State University where she graduated with a degree in Business Administration and a concentration in Marketing. Brittany and her husband live in Dallas with their two beautiful children/dogs, Marley and Kona. She currently works at Gangway Advertising as an Account Executive and in her spare time she enjoys her family and friends, traveling, shopping, taking pictures, and trying new restaurants. You can follow her on Twitter @brittanyhusted.

Timothy Oulton Turns on the British Charm and Turns Out an Incredible Opening

London-based store, TIMOTHY OULTON opens to the public on Saturday, June 23, 2012 but several hundred lucky Dallasites got to preview the store at a lavish grand opening soiree last Thursday.  Chaps in Oulton's signature bowler greeted guests at their cars with champagne and inside the scene was a bevvy of sights from pillars made of books to a yellow submarine fish tank, a propeller coffee table to a Willy Wonka-inspired candy bar.

Bri Crum, James Shackelford, Steve Kemble Jack Son and guest

The Knox Henderson store is the company's first stand-alone store in the U.S. A British artisan, Oulton took his dad’s antique business and refashioned it to recreate a world of antiques with a modern sensibility. He has stores in Singapore, Barbados and Beijing as well as galleries within specialty stores in the U.S. including ABC Carpet & Home and H.D. Buttercup. The guiding philosophy behind TIMOTHY OULTON is simple. "I think it is a love for design and a desire to see things done the best way possible that keeps me motivated,” says founder, Timothy Oulton. “In everything that we do, I want it to be unique, to be best in class, or I won’t do it.”

Handsome stranger with Barbara Daseke, Shane Walker, Carmaleta Whitely and Billy Fulmer

A tribute to Tim’s antiques background, each piece is handcrafted using time-honoured techniques, while Tim’s extraordinary attention to detail means that every bolt and every stitch counts. No two products are ever alike and each piece is imbued with its own distinct personality. “It’s the raw finish that makes it contemporary and relevant. It’s furniture that you interact with, that you look at and smile,” says Tim. With inspiration from timeless classic design and his unique modern perspective, core values of the brand are authenticity, heritage and longevity are core of the brand’s values. “We’re the Rolling Stones of the furniture world,” explains Tim, “It’s about designs and ideas that maintain relevant over time.”

photo: Eat. Style. Dallas.

TIMOTHY OULTON is now a part of Dallas history as it came to life inside the historic Potter Art Metal Studio, the one-story building at the corner of the northbound service road and Henderson. Beginning in 1920, Potter designed beautiful and graceful chandeliers, railings, balustrades, gates and more out of wrought iron, bronze, copper and brass for the stately homes of Swiss Avenue, Highland Park, Lakewood and other emerging neighborhoods. In-store, you will find truly authentic handcrafted furniture, made using traditional fabrications and classic hand craftsmanship techniques, but blended with a uniquely modern sensibility.

The company chose Dallas as its flagship store because they thought it was a great fit for the brand. “The larger than life approach to living and the energy you find in Dallas are also values at the heart of our brand, so we thought it was a perfect fit,” says Antony Pearce, Head of Marketing for the brand. “Furthermore, Dallas has a strong sense of individuality and creativity, which we wanted to tap in to.” In addition to Oulton’s upholstered furniture, accessories, case goods and trunks, the gallery will also have a design studio, floral shop, meeting space and coffee bar offering sweets from Hospitality Sweet, a Lake Highlands-based bakery.

TIMOTHY OULTON 4500 N. Central Expressway Dallas, TX www.timothyoulton.com 

party pics courtesy of Shana Anderson

FGI Announces Co-Chairs for Upcoming Gala

Fashion Group International of Dallas announced today that Maxine Trowbridge and Chuck Steelman will serve as co-chairs for The Fashion & Lifestyle Awards ‘Night of Stars’ Gala. The gala will be held November 16 from 7 to 10 p.m. in the Trade Pavilion at Dallas Market Center.  This is one of my favorite events of the year because it is totally dedicated to uplifting and honoring the achievements of the local fashion community.

“Night of Stars is currently the only Fashion & Lifestyle Award gala that recognizes both local businesses and supports education and talent in Dallas,” said Trowbridge. “FGI Dallas prides itself on supporting the next generation of fashion, design and lifestyle brilliance that will keep North Texas at the forefront of the fashion and design industries.”

Trowbrideg and Steelman

This year’s Fashion & Lifestyle Awards gala is especially momentous with the inaugural Shelly Musselman Design Award being awarded to a local fashion student. Brian Bolke, owner of Forty Five Ten and the former business partner of fashion influencer Shelly Musselman, and her daughter, Meredith Musselman have selected the $10,000 award winner from over 700 students that participated in this year’s Career Day. Bolke will mentor the winner in the creation of a capsule collection, sponsored by Forty Five Ten that will be presented at the Night of Stars.

“Dallas has always been a vibrant contributor to global fashion; producing amazing designers and breakthrough trends,” said Steelman. “Through fostering the ongoing education of fashion students we hope to enable this to continue.”

The Fashion & Lifestyle Awards ‘Night of Stars’ Gala is the largest fundraiser of the year for FGI of Dallas and directly funds and supports Career Day. Held annually in April, Career Day provides over $40,000 in multiple scholarships to local fashion students.  A party to announce all Fashion and Lifestyle Award Honorees will be held Oct. 3 at the Hilton Anatole Gossip Bar from 6 to 8 p.m. For more information about FGI’s Night of Stars please visit http://dallas.fgi.org.


About Fashion Group International:
Fashion Group International, founded in 1930, is a global, non-profit organization of dynamic professionals in all areas of the fashion and design-related industries of apparel, accessories, beauty and home. FGI’s mission is to be the pre-eminent authority on the business of fashion and design and to help members become more effective in their professional lives. For more information please visit http://www.fgi.org/.

Dallas Children's Theater wants your kids to design costumes for them!

Are you tired of hearing, "Mom, I'm boooooored!" Well, here's an opportunity to put those little imaginations to work!  Dallas Children’s Theater (DCT) invites students in kindergarten through twelfth grade to design costumes for bees, butterflies and birds to appear in its upcoming new season production, PINKALICIOUS THE MUSICAL.  Help DCT bring the most sparkling book ever to life by submitting costume design ideas on paper to Dallas Children’s Theater, Costume Design Contest, 5938 Skillman Street, Dallas, Texas 75231 by Monday, July 23, 2012.

ARTWORK  © VICTORIA KANN

PINKALICIOUS THE MUSICAL opens DCT’s 29th season on September 21 and runs through October 21, 2012, and will be directed by veteran DCT resident artist and Education Director, Nancy Schaeffer.  Designing costumes for the show is acclaimed DFW and frequent DCT costume designer Lyle Huchton, who is a local star having received two Daytime Emmy Outstanding Costume Design Nominations in 2008 and 2009 for his work on the PBS television series, “Barney and Friends”.  Schaeffer is expanding the cast to include youth actors who will play the bees, butterflies and birds.  Huchton will use the winning entry to design these ensemble roles complementing the overall design of the show.  “I was inspired by previous experiences where I worked with children to create costumes, and the kids loved it,” Huchton says.  “I will be responsible for taking their idea, and bringing it to life.”  DCT is grateful for this artistic generosity and the opportunity to engage with the community in such a delightful way.  Schaeffer and the DCT team are thrilled for yet another opportunity to promote its mission of encouraging young people to achieve their dreams.

One grand prizewinner will see their design idea come to life on stage, have a bio in the show program, receive four tickets to opening night and be recognized on the stage.  Three additional youth will receive Special Recognition in three different age categories: kindergarten through third grade, fourth through eighth grade, and ninth through twelfth grade.  The three Special Recognition winners will receive their names listed in the show program, two tickets to opening night, and recognition on the stage.  Best of all, EVERY entry will be prominently displayed in DCT’s lobby for the entire run of PINKALICIOUS THE MUSICAL.

Submitting is simple.  It’s pinkalicious-ly possible in 5 easy steps:

1)      Pull out your favorite colors, papers, pens, pencils, paints, glitter, glue, fabric, magazine clippings – any medium you like!
2)      Put your costume design ideas for bees, butterflies and birds on paper.
3)      Download, print and fill out DCT’s registration form which can be found at www.dct.org/funtodo
4)      Mail or deliver your paper design and registration form to: Dallas Children’s Theater, Costume Design Contest, 5938 Skillman Street, Dallas, Texas 75231.
5)      All entries must be received by Monday, July 23 and/or postmarked by Friday, July 20.

Winners will be announced on Friday, July 27.  Questions?  Call 214-740-0051.  Additional information, including video “how to” tips from Schaeffer and Huchton can be found at www.dct.org/funtodo

Join the NTFB's Round Table and party for a cause

The Algonquin Round Table in caricature by Al Hirschfeld.

The North Texas Food Bank has launched a new philanthropic organization called "The Round Table".  I can only assume the name of this new organization takes its inspiration from the famous Algonquin Round Table of the 1920's. Made up of some of New York's most infamous writers and celebrities, they met regularly to network, gossip and (of course) drink. This new rendition holds a much more noble endeavor, that will allow for young professionals looking to fight hunger in North Texas, and expand their social and professional network.

Membership benefits include unique access to volunteer opportunities, networking events, happy hours and informational programs designed to appeal to Dallas' active young professional community.  The goal of the organization is to further engage young professionals with the North Texas Food Bank and encourage them to join the mission to passionately pursue a hunger free community.

The group is hosting their official launch by holding an "Orange Cocktail" happy hour at The Owner’s Box at the Omni Dallas on Tuesday, June 26^th from 5:30PM to 7:30PM.

For more information about the Round Table or the Round Table Council visit http://www.roundtabledallas.com.

Bellini Fest kicks off Summer in Dallas

I always know that Summer is officially here when I hear the whirrrrrrl of the Bellini machine start up and the clink of those mini champagne flutes at Partizio.

Bellini Fest is back, baby! 

Fans of the frozen peach Bellini, a refreshing peach schnapps and champagne mixture, are invited to beat the summer heat with $1.00 baby Bellinis throughout the month of July.

Click here to find the location nearest you.

Private Warehouse Sale happening THIS WEEKEND!

 

 

What happens when a famous Preston Hollow estate and esteemed Interior Designer Michelle Nussbaumer of Ceylon et. Cie share a warehouse and need to offload some stuff? They hold a HUGE sale! If you are in the market for furniture, accessories, home decor, lighting, chandeliers, lamps, Chinese and French antiques, sofas, tables and chairs, custom made Christmas Decorations, full sets of china and dishes, dressers, console tables, books, pots and pans, architectural elements and antiques (whew!) this is the sale for you!

You can basically find everything but the kitchen sink. And they might even have one of those!

 

This is a once in a lifetime sale with great deals starting at $25.00. Rare antiques that have been collected for years. Don't miss out.  No credit cards. This sale is CASH ONLY.

SATURDAY, June 23 from 10am to 6pm

SUNDAY, June 24 from 10am to 6pm

MONDAY, June 25 from 10 am to 6pm

 

This warehouse sale will be located at 1327 E. Levee Street, Dallas Texas 75207 at the corner of Cole and Levee.  Happy shopping!

Lombardi's 31 Sundaze are Fun Days!

Outdoor patio at 31

Alberto Lombardi’s newest venture, 31, launched “Sundaze” this past Sunday and it's destined to be THE spot for loungy brunchers. Unlike any brunch experience in Dallas, Sundaze is sure to bring whole new life to the term “Sunday fun-day”.

Starting at 2pm, mimosas, bloody marys and rosé wine will be flowing as 31’s DJ provides the perfect soundtrack to a beautiful, relaxing Sunday afternoon. This is Dallas’ own, new Eurocentric scene. Unlike the typical “brunch”, which concludes in the early to late afternoon, 31 will keep the Sundaze party going until guests decide it’s over.

Executive Chef Eric Brandt has created a selection of specialty brunch items just for Sundaze grazing. The menu will complement Chef Brandt’s celebrated weekend brunch downstairs at Bistro 31, offered every Saturday and Sunday. Although reservations are not required for Sundaze, they are recommended for groups of 10 or more. With no cover charge, guests are invited to come and enjoy the best day of the weekend.

Look for me when you stop in. I'm sure you'll see me there!

Craft Cocktails Texas Festival was a Boozy Success

The Craft Cocktails Texas Festival took place on June 14-17, 2012 and was designed to celebrate the growing movement toward craft cocktails, artisan spirits and classic techniques being employed at bars and restaurants throughout Texas.  When a VIP invite landed in my in-box, I assigned Brittany Husted the daunting task of boozing her way through this event, yet stay sober enough to recount her evening.  She succeeded. Barely.

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I can't think of a better way to kick off the Summer than with a four-day festival featuring craft cocktails! I was fortunate enough to attend the 1^st annual Craft Cocktails Texas Festival and I can assure you this will be an event that continues for many years!  This inaugural event included spirit tastings, happy hours, cocktail parties, educational seminars and more, bringing enthusiasts from all over together for one heck of a good time!

Hayley Hamilton and Gary Cogill.  Photo: Gregory Hamilton

The VIP kick-off party at the Stoneleigh Hotel was a perfect starting point.  I wet my whistle with a fantastic summer drink made with Lillet, which is a blend of wine and citrus liqueurs… delicious! Other cocktails included Monkey Shoulder (a blended malt whisky used in conjunction with various jellies to produce an outstanding summer beverage), Milagro Tequila popsicles, Single Malt Scotch Whiskey (from Scotland), and Stoli Vodka filled Jalapenos. Wow…my taste buds were filled with gratitude!

Aside from sipping delicious cocktails and admiring the view from the top of The Stoneleigh, I got a chance to mingle with some pretty cool folks including Neil Lemons, founder of iliveindallas.com and Nico Martini, founder of Hypeworthy, who was also handling the social media for Craft Cocktails Texas. Before calling it a night I grabbed a BBQ slider and headed downstairs for a game of “Bean Bag Toss”.

Adrian Verdin and Jenovia Hernandez  Photo: Nan Coulter/DMN

Next up on my social calendar was the Tiki Party Finale, hosted by People’s Last Stand in Mockingbird Station. Cana Brava Rum was the featured cocktail, and me being the Rum Lover I am, I had to try everything on the menu. All for the sake of blogging…right? The Mojito was my first choice and it was fabulous, a perfect combination of mint, lime, and rum. Next up was the Cuba Libre with rum, lime and Mexican coke, then the Daiquiri and finally the El Presidente with vermouth, grenadine, and curacao. It was a perfect ending to a perfect weekend and I know what you’re all thinking…you can’t wait until next year’s event!!

A portion of proceeds from Craft Cocktails Texas will benefit the Youth Foundation of the American Heart Association and the North Texas Chapter of the United States Bartenders Guild.

Brittany attended Texas State University where she graduated with a degree in Business Administration and a concentration in Marketing. Brittany and her husband live in Dallas with their two beautiful children/dogs, Marley and Kona. She currently works at Gangway Advertising as an Account Executive and in her spare time she enjoys her family and friends, traveling, shopping, taking pictures, and trying new restaurants. You can follow her on Twitter @brittanyhusted.

Casting Call: Fashion Star, Season Two

Personally, I think Fashion Star sucked and I can't believe the ratings were good enough to warrant a second season.  GCB gets canceled but they keep shows like this one around?! Go figure...  Regardless of whether you like the show or not, it's a great way for an up-and-coming designer to get some national recognition.

They are looking for established clothing designers.The designer can not currently be sold in a major national chain, but any number of boutiques is fine!  Spread the word and let's see Dallas represent!

CHOOZE to change the world

One of the reasons I love canvasing the scene in Dallas is that at (almost) every event I attend, I meet someone new and interesting. I recently attended a swan song for the iconic Nana at the Hilton Anatole which closed after 20 years of service to make way for a new steakhouse call Ser coming this Fall. At this soiree I was introduced to Jayne Chobot, a New Yorker who has recently moved to town.  She mentioned that she had a 4-year old daughter and is a blogger in her own right, so when an invite came across my desk the next day to attend a preview of the Fall collection for CHOOZE shoes, I thought Jayne would be the perfect person to cover this for me. I hope you enjoy her take on this extraordinary company located right here in Big D:

____________________________________

Kofi Annan said “To live is to choose. But to choose well,you must know who you are and what you stand for, where you want to go and why you want to get there.”

Dallas-born and raised Sharon Blumberg understood this when she created her shoe line, the cleverly named CHOOZE, with the mission of inspiring children to dream big and impact the world in a positive way. An artist, designer, and (most creatively) a mother of three, she designed a line of children’s shoes that embraces the powers of choice and individuality. A fun and colorful (and 100% vegan) pair from her collections will compliment each other but will never match.

Jayne's 4-year old daughter loved the CHOOZE shoes her Mom brought home from this event!

The line brought to mind the Little Edie Beale-esque result of letting my own 3-year old dress herself the first time, and I was delighted to attend a showcase of the Fall 2012 collection last Friday at the CHOOZE HQ in North Dallas. We may be months away from bouquets of freshly-sharpened pencils, but the stores will soon be stocking the new designs, including the “Dig” cooler weather-friendly boots and “Speak Up” lace-up high-tops.

The mission of CHOOZE goes even deeper and further than self-expression. Inspired by a TED talk by Salah Boukadoum, Sharon Blumberg has committed to investing CHOOZE profits inanti-poverty programs as a Good Returns Company. The investments provide training, support, education, and loans to women so they can start their own businesses and lift themselves out of extreme poverty, defined by the UN as "adenial of choices." The program is “a hand-up, not a hand-out” as Blumberg and her team passionately explain.

Shiloh Pitt is a fan of CHOOZE

The delightful and sturdy kid- and mom-friendly CHOOZE are designed in Dallas by Blumberg and her team, and are available locally at Whole Earth Provisions Co. and Stride Rite at Preston Center. Less than a year after debuting, they are already sold in over 300 stores across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Guatemala, and Puerto Rico. 

To CHOOZE your style, visit http://www.choozeshoes.com/

About Jayne Chobot:

Jayne is an executive liaison from New York City who fell in love with a Texan and is now embracing everything about her new life in Dallas.A passionate traveler, hostess, and mom to a sassy little girl, she is often over-caffeinated and always on the hunt for new & interesting. You can follow her adventures online @jayniemarie,and on her blog A Moveable Appentency.

The sky is falling! The sky is falling!

You know what they say, "If you don't like the weather in Texas... wait a few minutes and it will change! " That was certainly true tonight. Out of the blue, the skies opened up and unleashed a holy hail storm like none other! As quickly as it began, it ended minutes later and within 10 minutes the skies were blue again.   It looks like East Dallas/Lakewood got the brunt of the storm.  NorthPark Center also took quite a hit with skylights being broken and shattered.  Where I live in Park Cities, I only got 3 measly hail stones in my yard (whew!).  Others were not so lucky. Here are some photos I came across on Facebook.

What happened at your house??  If you took a photo, post a link to it in the comments.

"Sinister clouds over downtown Dallas!" posted WFAA

La Vista near Abrams. photo: Lakewood - East Dallas Advocate

Sky 4 Damage Survey: Lakewood Country Club Golf Course. This is not snow, it's hail!

Lakewood Country Club in Dallas. (Photo: Robert Curran)

photo: @avose

 

Top Hats & Tails 2012

(top left)  Monica Greene and Cynthia Smoot  (top right)  Tara Harper and John Brodrick 
(bottom) Father and his kiddos enjoy the event

Host Preston Pearson and Master of Ceremonies Scott Murray were back again to help Paws In The City raise funds to rescue dogs and cats set to be euthanized at the city shelters in last Saturday's 5th annual Top Hat & Tails Gala.

The event featured a silent auction and seated dinner but the real entertainment was a dance competition that paired local celebrities with Arthur Murray dance instructors ala ABC’s Dancing With the Stars. Each couple performed one dance routine. Steve Kemble, Drew Pearson and Claudia Marshall from Arthur Murray Studios comprised a celebrity panel of judges awarded scores based on style and performance. Guests could also vote for their favorites.  The female contestants wore dazzling costumes actually worn on the ABC hit show.

Ron Corning, Melissa Newton, Monica Greene and Shelly Slater

(top left)  Linda Armstrong and partner  (top right)  Steve Noviello and partner  (bottom)  Rodney Anderson and partner

This year's celebrity dancers were:

1. Rodney Anderson, Executive Director of Supreme Lending
2. Ron Corning, host of WFAA's Daybreak
3. Lynae Fearing, co-owner of Shinsei restaurant
4. Monica Greene, owner of Monica's Nueva Cocina and Mi Lounge
5. Linda Armstrong, Mother of Lance Armstrong and motivational speaker
6. Melissa Newton, CBS 11 reporter
7. Steve Noviello, Fox 4 consumer reporter
8. Shelly Slater, WFAA anchor/reporter

Congrats to WFAA's SHELLY SLATER who took home the "Lucy Trophy" this year with fantastic performance!!

Click here to see a gallery of photos from this event on Facebook.

photos courtesy of Peter Wynne aka "Plano Pete"

Bidding Nana Adieu

Jarrod Fresquez, Hilton Anatole GM Bob McPherrin, Cynthia Smoot, Linnea Thulin, Steve Kemble and Jennifer Buxton

On Thursday, June 7 Nana at the Hilton Anatole officially closed its doors after 20 years of serving Dallas patrons. Replacing Nana will be a contemporary steakhouse, Sēr (pronounced “sear”) scheduled to open on October 1, 2012.   Boasting some of the most incredible views of the picturesque Dallas skyline, Sēr will offer prime cuts of the finest beef, the freshest of seafood, and unique appetizers and side dishes that will clearly differentiate it as a new style of Dallas steakhouse.

The Hilton Anatole is located at 2201 Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, TX. 75207.

photo courtesy of Shana Anderson

y&i Hosts Grand Opening for West Village boutique

Robyn Sribhen White and Robin Boesch

y&i clothing boutique recently opened its third location in West Village.  To celebrate the opening they partnered with Dallas Tidbits to host a well-attended soiree of stylistas.  

The party offered yummy Mediterranean bites from Baboush, treats from Pinkberry and complimentary sips Featuring No. 3 Dry Gin from Anchor Distilling Company plus an amazing swag bag for the first 50 guests.

y&i owners Robyn Sribhen White and Robin Boesch first met as high schoolers in Dallas and later were roommates at the University of Texas in Austin. Despite post college careers on separate coasts, the friendship endured until their shared love of affordable fashion brought them back together.

“We’d visit each other whenever we could, and spend hours shopping and obsessing over fashion magazines,” says White. “We were struck by how difficult it was to find a shop where you could get a great outfit for under $300, so we decided to create one.”

By giving shoppers the opportunity to mix brands like Joe’s Jeans and Ella Moss with affordable pieces from Billabong and Steve Madden, the duo has turned their dream into reality. Located across from Malai Kitchen in the old J’Adore Paris space, y&i shoppers will enjoy a well-edited assortment of fashionable, well-made clothing at an affordable price.

After opening stores in San Francisco, CA and Austin, TX, Robyn and Robin are excited to bring their California-casual style to their hometown.  In addition to contemporary brands like Rachel Pally, Free People, Paige Premium Denim, and LA Made, y&i offers a savvy selection of jewelry, shoes and handbags. The store even has its own label of wallet-friendly clothing.

y&i clothing boutique, 3699 McKinney Ave #411, Dallas, TX 75204.  (214) 522-0775

Mon - Fri 11am - 8pm; Sat 10am - 8pm; Sun 11am - 6pm

Monday Night Mammos

Methodist Dallas Medical Center is pleased to announce Monday Night Mammos, a new, monthly event that will change the way women think about their annual mammograms. For many women, mammograms are an uncomfortable experience.

Ya think!?  I mean they smash your boob between two piece of glass like a dried flower press... not exactly comfortable.

However, at Methodist Dallas, breast care specialists ensure that women feel relaxed, comfortable, and pampered while they take care of their health.

At Monday Night Mammos, women will receive the five-star treatment, beginning the moment they arrive with free valet parking. Soothing aromatherapy, a relaxing chair massage, and a gentle hand rub are next, followed by delicious, light spa cuisine. When it comes time for their mammograms, women are given a soft, warm MammoPad® breast cushion to ensure their comfort. Expert radiologists read the results with the added benefit of Digital ImageChecker® computer aided detection technology which improves early detection. Women receive their results within 24 hours.

I love that they are putting in all this effort for foreplay before they try and get you in the sack. The only thing they left out of this promotion to seal the deal for me is wine. Just sayin'. 

Monday Night Mammos is covered by insurance, with no additional cost for all of the luxurious spa amenities. Most insurance policies will cover one mammogram per year for women aged 40 and up. The cost for an uninsured woman is $266.70. Women who plan to attend should RSVP online and a member of the radiology department will contact them to take their insurance information, in order to make the process smooth and hassle-free when they arrive.

Monday Night Mammos will be held on the following dates:

• Monday, June 25 
• Monday, July 30 
• Monday, August 27 
• Monday, September 24 

Methodist Dallas Medical Center is one of only three medical centers in Dallas accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, so you know that you will receive the highest level of breast care. For more information or to RSVP for an upcoming Monday Night Mammos event, please visit www.methodisthealthsystem.org/mondaymammos or call 214-947-3441, option 1.

About Methodist Health System:
Guided by the founding principles of life, learning, and compassion, Methodist Health System (Methodist) provides quality, integrated care to improve and save the lives of individuals and families throughout North Texas.Methodist Dallas Medical Center, Methodist Charlton Medical Center, Methodist Mansfield Medical Center, Methodist Richardson Medical Center, Methodist Midlothian Health Center, and Methodist Family Health Centers are part of the nonprofit Methodist Health System, which is affiliated by covenant with the North Texas Conference of The United Methodist Church. Additional information is available at www.MethodistHealthSystem.org. Connect with them through Facebook, YouTube and Twitter at www.MethodistHealthSystem.org/SocialMedia.