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2010-07-21T14:30:00.000-07:00

There`s no better place to stay and play this summer than The Georgian Terrace Hotel - located in the heart of Midtown`s arts district. Enjoy summer savings of up to 20% when you BOOK NOW . The hotel is walking distance to great restaurants, museums, retail & The Fabulous Fox Theatre. Don`t miss the 30th anniversary of "Caddyshack," next Friday, July 30 - park for free, grab a drink in the bar, walk across the street to see the movie & then come back for dinner & stay the night. From the six fully renovated penthouses and nine premier suites to the fabulous Livingston Restaurant + Bar featuring Chef Gary Mennie`s amazing cuisine as well as new beds, flat panel TVs, complimentary high speed Wi-Fi & a rooftop pool - there`s something for everyone this summer.

Back by popular demand, Shops Around Lenox will extend its hours until 9 p.m. this Thursday, July 22, so you can shop till the sun goes down. Enjoy summer savings and sweet new fall fashions at some of your favorite stores like Bill Hallman Studio , Fab`rik, SWANK and Tootsies . Stay tuned for DEKA Atlanta , set to open next month.

Our dear friend Bill Kaelin turned us onto this one. This Friday, July 23 & Saturday, July 24 the Woodruff Arts Center welcomes back gloATL, who will produce a unique, multi-disciplinary work on The Woodruff Arts Center campus. Roem will embrace an ensemble of forms, including dance, music, multi-media and rich theatrical design, for two unforgettable evenings of live performance in a 360 degree setting. Created by gloATL`s award-winning creative team that includes Dancemaker Lauri Stallings, Videographer Adam Larsen, Costume Designer April McCoy and Lighting by Ryan O`Gara, Roem is heavily influenced by the main phenomenon of our time, globalization. This immigration brings about new relations and cultural signs, and the fascination with movement, trajectory and genuine experience. A marriage of chor eography and interactive sculpting, this new creation will literally bridge the gap between artist and audience, reassessing what art is and where it occurs. The production will feature the musical creations of Tom Sherwood of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Sonic Generator, Georgia Tech`s contemporary music ensemble-in-residence.

We are super excited about this month`s Spotlight on Design at SWITCH featuring Brian Bell & David Yocum of bldgs. We`ve been huge fans of these guys for years. Besides being super cool and very nice - they`re incredibly talented designers. Hear how they use form, spatial organization & innovative materials to achieve harmony between architecture & its environment on Wednesday, July 28. You coming?? Let us know - RSVP NOW .

Atlanta`s favorite Mexican restaurant has plenty of reasons to party year round, but on Saturday, July 31, Bone Garden Cantina will host a day-long celebration for its two-year anniversary and the launch of the new Bone Garden Tequila Club. Enjoy authentic Mexican food specials, a party on the patio and music by local tiki band, Walk the Plank. Be among the first to start sipping your way through Bone Garden`s extensive tequila list.

Can`t make it to the beach this summer?? Gilbert`s Cafe & Bar will bring the beach to you on Friday, August 6, for a "Beat the Heat" party. No party is complete without body painters, a DJ, surfing movies & more. Don your best beach gear and come dressed to impress, because the best shore-themed outfit will win a prize. Our favorite beach accessory?? A made-to-order frozen cocktail for just $7.50.

If you thought her huge head of hair and trash mouth were Snooki`s most compelling attributes, you might be surprised to know that she actually has something in common with Jennifer Love Hewitt: They both vagazzle. First you`ve heard of the latest body decor?? Here`s how it works: head over to WAX in Inman Park for a full Brazilian - you`ll need a clean canvas. Then take yourself up to Entebello in Buckhead where they will bedazzle your rhymes-with-mulva in Swarovksy crystals. No - we can`t make it up!!

2010-07-14T07:06:00.001-07:00

SUMMER SALES ABOUND SO STOCK UP ON YOUR ESSENTIALS

If you`re shopping for hot summer styles, we advise you to wait until the day cools down. Your favorite boutiques at Shops Around Lenox stay open until 9 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month - all summer long. You can shop till the sun goes down this Thursday, July 15 at stores like Tootsies, Bill Hallman Studio, American Apparel, Fab`rik and more.

Speaking of hot summer styles and Tootsies , don`t miss the final week of Tootsies` sale with discounts up to 70% off all your favorite designers. We love cool savings by the likes of Tory Burch, Tibi, Alice + Olivia and more. The only thing better than finding jeans that fit oh so well or that perfect little black dress is scoring them on sale!!

While at Shops Around Lenox, it`s hard to miss the "coming soon" sign for the highly anticipated new location of DEKA. Opening this fall, DEKA is having a huge moving sale in its current Pharr Road location with savings up to 70% off. The new 2,700 square-foot store with 25-foot ceilings will showcase pre- and post-workout wear, which we love for the gym, tooling around town and jet setting. Lines like Y3 and Y3`s men`s wear in addition to Adidas by Stella McCartney, Asics, Beyond Yoga, Bia Brazil, Blue Fish, EVER, Great China Wall, Gypsy, Hard Tail, LNA, MPG, Newton Running, Nike, Puma by Alexander McQueen, Rese Pilates, Rebel Yell, Splits 59, Sugoi, Venice 291 and Zoot Sports, give more gain to your pain!!

All that shopping can make you hungry so after you`ve worked up an appetite, check out Chef Gary Mennie`s new summer menu at Livingston Restaurant + Bar with seasonal favorites like Potato Croquettes with Chorizo, Tomato and Lime; Foie Gras Brulee with Pepper Cracker and Green Tomato; Short Rib Ravioli with Honey, Horseradish and Crispy Onion; Crispy Crab Cakes with Yuzu, Thai Basil and Toasted Sesame; Tuna Crudo with Pistachio, Lemon Mint and Candied Mustard; Sweet Corn Soup with Tarragon Foam and Tomato; Atlantic Halibut with Baby Artichokes, Snap Peas and Candied Orange; and Lamb Chops with Garlic Sausage, Fennel and Basil. Yum!

We love dressing up. So when the invitation says formal evening wear or 1920`s period attire - we go shopping. The NBAF Gala is one of the hottest tickets in Atlanta. You never know which artists will sit at your table or what amazing auction item you`ll score. Always the talk of the town, this year`s event this Saturday, July 17, will be no different as revelers return to a bygone era when the women were glamorous, the men were cool cats and the music was stompin`. Stormy`s Supper Club in the Grand Atrium of the Woodruff Arts Center will dazzle with Joe Gransden and his 16-piece Big Band, jazz singers and dancers. Yeah baby!!

2010-06-07T18:37:00.000-07:00

WHO DOESN`T WANT GREAT FOOD AND HIGH STYLE??

You can add one highly anticipated burger joint of super cool things to check out in West Midtown. Chef Shaun Doty opens Yeah! Burger this Thursday, June 10 and you won`t want to miss it. While you`re tooling around Howll Mill Road, check out our favorites: SWITCH Modern for fabulous furniture and home furnishings, Emily Amy Gallery for great art, Verde Home for great accent pieces and B.Braithwaite for the best baby gifts. We also love Bone Garden Cantina for margaritas and JCT Kitchen for fries.

Starting this Friday, June 11 and contuing through July 11, HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern will show the World Cup games. Guys - you know the score. Ladies - in case you missed it in our last newsletter, we give you hot soccer players in little shorts from Vanity Fair?? Who says girls don`t like sports??

Thirsty revelers can support Camp Twin Lakes and enjoy a new twist on the standard beer bottle. The revolutionary new Miller Lite Vortex Bottle launches here on Friday, June 11, and throughout the day, the Miller Lite team will make a donation to Camp Twin Lakes every time they see someone drinking a Vortex.

Castleberry Point kicks off another Art Stroll this Friday with PROJECT PUSHPIN, a photography art show where anyone can share their photos by simply push pinning them into the exhibit. The works are sold and the proceeds benefit a charity - this time it`s Cleopas R Johnson Park. You can also see "Moving Pieces," at the new Emerging Scene gallery, sip wine at the Wine Shoe, nibble on mouth watering wings at JR Cricket`s, enjoy FUZE and sample the hottest new food cart - Frozen Cooleys.

Next Thursday, June 17 the Shops Around Lenox will host "Shop Til The Sun Goes Down," extending the hours of all of the fabulous stores and offering refreshments and entertainment. Don`t miss the Tootsies private shopping party to benefit The Atlanta Women`s Foundation with cupcakes and champagne. A percentage of sales goes to charity.

2010-06-02T07:01:00.001-07:00

GET YOUR SIDE PONYTAIL ON - IT`S TIME TO PARTY

How much fun are you going to have this Friday night when the Fox Theatre`s Coca-Cola Film Fest kicks off a John Hughes Double Feature of "Ferris Bueller`s Day Off" followed by "The Breakfast Club"?? Here`s the plan: Start at Livingston Restaurant + Bar where you can enjoy three hours of free parking and Chef Gary Mennie`s three-course $29 theater menu. Then head over to the Fox for the 7:30 p.m. movie. In between shows grab a Pretty in Pink-tini back at the bar at Livingston and then head back to the Fox for the 9:30 p.m.show. Then when you get out hop in your car -and drive over to HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern for Relax and Rewind, which kicks off a monthly 80s night. Enjoy this hot new restaurant`s late night menu including a dollar-makes-you-hollar hot dog.

Saturday night finds you back in Midtown for Bill Kaelin`s FLUX Deluxe party - which is also his 40th birthday party - at the Georgian Terrace Hotel. There`s no better place to celebrate than the bar at Livingston with a DJ. Enjoy a special rate on a night`s stay at the hotel, have brunch on Sunday with make-your-own Bloody Marys and then make a splash at the pool party on the roof. We love Bill Kaelin!

On Thursday, June 10, Chef Shaun Doty will debut his highly anticipated burger restaurant Yeah Burger in West Midtown. He`s dazzled us with fabulous food at Mumbo Jumbo, MidCity Cuisine, Table 1280 and our favorite - Shaun`s. Now we have yet another venue to savor his cuisine. To that we say - yeah baby!!

Starting June 11 and contuing through July 11, HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern will show the World Cup games. Guys - you can enjoy HOBNOB`s extensive selection of beers while watching this grueiling and highly competitive sport. Ladies - did ya see the cover of Vanity Fair?? I`m just sayin!!

On Friday, June 11, the biggest thing to hit the beer bottle since the screw off cap will make its groovy debut here. Miller Lite`s new "vortex" bottle has a spiral flow that allows the beer to taste even better. This is the next generation of innovation - a breakthrough unlike anything American beer drinkers have seen before - and the best part is: it`s summer and you`re thirsty - drink up!!

Castleberry Point kicks off another Art Stroll on Friday, June 11 with PROJECT PUSHPIN, a photography art show where anyone can share their photos by simply push pinning them into the exhibit. The works are sold and the proceeds benefit a charity - this time it`s Cleopas R Johnson Park. You can also see "Moving Pieces," at the new Emerging Scene gallery, sip wine at the Wine Shoe, nibble on mouth watering wings at JR Cricket`s and sample the hottest new food cart - Frozen Cooleys.

2010-05-27T13:17:00.001-07:00

SHOP & PLAY DURING THE FINAL DAYS OF MAY

We`re so darn excited about Nancy Braithwaite`s Spotlight on Design at SWITCH Modern TONIGHT from 6 to 8 p.m. This legendary designer has created some of the city`s finest interiors. Join us as she discusses the power of simplicity and restraint in interior designs. Hobnob with your designer friends, sip wine and nibble on cheese - this event is fast becoming a see and be seen fete. RSVP NOW

The girls are back and they`re ready to shop!! Channel your inner Carrie, Charlotte, Samantha or Miranda - Stanfords and Anthonys are welcome too - at the Tootsies` "Sex and the City 2" Private Shopping Party to benefit Dad`s Garage on Thursday, May 27 from 6 to 8 p.m. Bridget Benware, Mallory Godfrey, Lauren Imber, Chaffee Braithwaite Heilman, Elli Kaplan, Amanda Leibson, Morgan Marr, Kelly Redding and Lindsey Rodbell will host a night of private shopping, cosmos and cupcakes by CamiCakes. RSVP NOW.

Speaking of Dad`s Garage - Sean Daniels returns to our favorite Inman Park theater this Friday to direct "The Change: Another Teenage Werewolf Musical." This comedic gruel-fest chronicles the teenage life of Mikey, a mild-mannered high school student who is not only navigating adolescence as the new kid in a small town, but he unknowingly inherited the family curse -- lycanthropy! Written by Travis Sharp (co-author of the smash hit zombie musical: "Song of the Living Dead"), this World Premiere musical comedy, running Friday, May 28 to June 19, is not your typical story of teenage transformation. But then again - Dad`s Garage isn`t your typical the

2010-05-19T09:54:00.001-07:00

SHOP AND PLAY AT SOME OF THE HOTTEST EVENTS IN TOWN

Enjoy an evening of shopping , wine, food and live music at the Shops Around Lenox on Thursday, May 20 . This compelling mix of retailers is fast becoming a fashion destination. All your favorite stores - like Bill Hallman Studio and Tootsies - will stay open until 9 p.m.

Join the Atlanta Contemporary Art Center this Saturday, May 22 from 7 to 10 p.m. for the Open Studios Patio Party. Enjoy PBR, Peroni, popcorn, popsicles and rum punch. The Good Food Truck will serve up the Poodle and Pizza by Moto Bene will be on hand as well. DJ Boss Jonesy will be bringing back the 1960s. Artists include Paul S. Benjamin, Jonathan Bouknight, Marc Brotherton, David D`Agostino, Margaret Fletcher, Mark Leibert, Mary O`Horo, Michele Schuff, Dayna Thacker, Yi-Hsin Tzeng and Nancy VanDevender . Members FREE, General Admission $5, Students $3, Cash Bar, Cash Concessions.

Councilman Kwanza Hall makes history on Sunday, May 23 with a "car-free Sunday" affair called Streets Alive, welcoming bikers, skaters, walkers and tango dancers. For five hours a number of downtown streets will be shut down to cars. Go play in the streets!

You won`t want to miss the fourth Spotlight on Design at SWITCH Modern, featuring the legendary Nancy Braithwaite next Wednesday, May 26. Hobnob with your designer friends, sip wine, nibble on cheese and hear this incredible designer discuss the use of restraint and simplicity in design. RSVP NOW.

The girls are back and they`re ready to shop!! Channel your inner Carrie, Charlotte, Samantha or Miranda - Stanfords and Anthonys are welcome too - at the Tootsies` "Sex and the City 2" Private Shopping Party to benefit Dad`s Garage on Thursday, May 27 from 6 to 8 p.m. Bridget Benware, Mallory Godfrey, Lauren Imber, Chaffee Braithwaite Heilman, Elli Kaplan, Amanda Leibson, Morgan Marr, Kelly Redding and Lindsey Rodbell will host a night of private shopping, cosmos and cupcakes by CamiCakes. RSVP NOW.

Speaking of Dad`s Garage - Sean Daniels returns to our favorite Inman Park theater to direct "The Change: Another Teenage Werewolf Musical." This comedic gruel-fest chronicles the teenage life of Mikey, a mild-mannered high school student who is is not only navigating adolescence as the new kid in a small town, but he unknowingly inherited the family curse -- lycanthropy! Written by Travis Sharp (co-author of the smash hit zombie musical: "Song of the Living Dead"), this World Premiere musical comedy, running Friday, May 28 to June 19, is not your typical story of teenage transformation. But then again - Dad`s Garage isn`t your typical theater.

2010-05-12T14:20:00.000-07:00

EVERY DOG HAS HIS DAY BUT HIP CATS LIKE YOU WILL BE SAYING BOW WOW WOW TO ALL THE FUN THINGS TO DO AROUND TOWN

Today we`re asking you to do your part to help find a cure for AIDS -- one cupcake at a time. Murphy`s is participating in the Virginia-Highland Dine Out to benefit AID Atlanta and its delicious pastry chef, Nicholas Crawford, will be serving up his "Awareness Red Velvet Cupcakes," complete with classic French butter cream. We love Nicholas -- and we have to imagine that half the city does as well because pre-orders are stacking up. Go Nicholas go!! They`re available all day starting at 11a.m. and $1 from each $2 cupcake will benefit AID Atlanta.

This evening you can help fight childhood hunger at the 22nd annual Taste of the Nation event at the Georgia Aquarium. Mix and mingle with your foodie friends and get up-close-and-personal with some of the city`s best chefs including Chef Christian Messier from the Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View . You can also bid adieu to our our city`s departing diva Jane Fonda, who is the honorary chair along with honorary chef Dean Fearing. Atlanta`s restaurant mavens Pano Karatassos and our George McKerrow are event chairs.

On Thursday, May 13, our favorite nightclub impresario Michael Krohngold aka KrohnicGold celebrates his birthday and we`ll be hitting the party at his uber hip Tongue & Groove . Michael and others brought Atlanta some of its finest hospitality concepts including Velvet, Color Box, Mumbo Jumbo, Fusebox, Deux Plex, the old Tongue & Groove and the new and improved Tongue & Groove. How does he continue to create a zeitgeist and look so good doing it?? We`d love to know!!

Castleberry Point is fast becoming a must stop affair on the Castleberry Art Stroll and you won`t want to miss it this Friday, May 14. We`ve assembled a pack of our favorite artists for "Go Dog Go," including Fred Gear, Jason Horton, Patti Krohngold, Michael Payne and Tommy Taylor. Their dog inspired paintings, photography, drawings, ink blots and more will be for sale in the live/work spaces with proceeds benefiting Castleberry Hill`s proposed Railside Dog Park. We love Freddy for providing ice cold SweetWater beer!! In the spirit of going to the dogs, the developer will present a screening of "Best in Show" and the Wine Shoe will host a wine tasting.

It`s Saturday night in Midtown, you`ve just had an amazing dinner at Livingston Restaurant + Bar (where you wished Chef Gary Mennie a belated birthday - Wed, May 12 is the day) and you don`t want the night to end with dessert. Where do you go to find a cool scene with great cocktails where everyone knows your name?? Until now, you would be challenged. Thank goodness for Pablo Henderson. Our favorite downtown club owner closed up shop at The Mark and opens Parlour in Midtown this Saturday, May 15. Parlour, from the French word parloir, which denotes an "audience chamber," is an intimate guest list-only bar. No cover. Invitation only. Open weekends. Music by DJs Quinn & Gresham and featuring Southern cocktails. How do you get on the list?? Ask a friend.

Round out the month with a couple more fun fetes. Wednesday, May 26 marks the fourth Spotlight on Design at SWITCH Modern, featuring the legendary Nancy Braithwaite. Hobnob with your designer friends, sip wine, nibble on cheese and hear this incredible designer discuss the use of restraint and simplicity in design. The design community was either starving for a great monthly social or Roy and Doug know how to throw a party - or both - but this event is quickly becoming the see and be seen scene.

Our favorite Atlanta theater company never grew up - thank goodness!! So come re-live your childhood when Sean Daniels returns to Dad`s Garage theater to direct "The Change: Another Teenage Werewolf Musical." This comedic gruel-fest chronicles the teenage life of Mikey, a mild-mannered high school student who is is not only navigating adolescence as the new kid in a small town, but he unknowingly inherited the family curse - lycanthropy! Written by Travis Sharp (co-author of the smash hit zombie musical: "Song of the Living Dead"), this World Premiere musical comedy kicks off Friday, May 28 and runs through June 19.

2010-05-04T17:34:00.000-07:00

TOP 10 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW TO CREATE A BUZZ

1. The single most important thing to remember is to maintain the integrity of your brand. Once you lose sight of that, the rest is just fluff.

2. It’s not what you know, it’s who you know. Get out and meet people; see and be seen.

3. Make it viral – take a lesson from the Faberge Organic Shampoo commercial: They told two friends and they told two friends and so on and so on. Use every promotional vehicle you have and barter with friends to use theirs. Blog, tweet, Facebook and more.

4. Don’t take yourself too seriously – you may have to take the bullet for a bad idea. Don’t fight it. Accept it, learn to laugh at yourself and move on.

5. Know your audience – don’t sell ice to Eskimos.

6. Think outside the box – not outside the realm of possibility. Remember that you’re trying to get from point a to point b, not off the charts or into space.

7. Make your message easily accessible (like a top 10 list); it needs to be simple enough for a reporter to quickly grasp, write about and then move on. Time is money and these days most of us are short on both – reporters are no exception.

8. Recycle – there’s no such thing as an original idea. Tried and true formulas work for a reason: They’re tried and true.

9. There is strength in numbers. Create a network of colleagues who work for and with like minded brands. Constantly reach out to them to create synergies and forge alliances to create win/win results.

10. Have fun but don’t try to be funny – not everyone shares your sense of humor. When in doubt – call a colleague within your network and run the idea past him. Then think to yourself: Is he laughing with me or at me??

2010-05-03T12:10:00.001-07:00

TOP 10 WAYS TO SHOW YOUR MOTHER THE LOVE

1. Ok - it`s a rainy day so you have to ask yourself: Do I feel like shopping?? Well do you?? Never ones to promote procrastination, we just might wait until THIS THURSDAY, May 6 for the Tootsies Private Shopping Party to benefit Chastain Horse Park. RSVP Now to get your mom something fabulous and pick up a little something something for yourself -- it goes to a good cause and your mother always taught you to give back.

2. If you`re as sweet on your mom as we are on ours, why not indulge her with chocolate? When we need the ultimate chocolate gift (or when we ultimately cheat on our diet) we look no further than Chocolate Pink Pastry Cafe for fabulous cakes, cupcakes and more. We love Michael Goodrich and he loves his mom.

3. If flowers are more her style, turn to John McDonald at Twelve. Our mom loves him and why shouldn`t she?? He`s so crazy talented!!

4. You know you can`t show up with flowers and no vase -- your momma taught you better than that. We adore Iittala`s classic Alvar Aalto Vase available at SWITCH Modern. If you haven`t been to SWITCH, join your designer friends at the monthly Spotlight on Design event. We had so much fun at last week`s event with Yong Pak - we can`t wait for the next one on Wednesday, May 26, featuring our friend Chaffee`s mom: The legendary Nancy Braithwaite.

5. If you drag your mom to all these fabulous events, she just may need to unwind. We can relate!! How about some pampering at Entebello? The facials are blissful and almost as much as we love Rachelle - we`re crazy about her mom.

6. Speaking of unwinding, our mom loves nothing more than to curl up with a great book. If she`s a fan of Southern authors - we`ve got two for you. We adored our Inman Park pal Susan White`s first novel, "Bound South," and we`re already rapt with her newly released second novel, "A Soft Place to Land," a captivating tale of two sisters` journey from Atlanta and beyond. Splurge and get her both! Or check out our Chastain Horse Park friend Christine Eisner`s must read: Comfort Living. She`ll be signing copies at the Tootsies Private Shopping Party this Thursday and donating 20 percent of sales from her book to Chastain`s life changing programs.

7. If she`s the mom who has everything, show her she`s tops with brunch at the newly renovated Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View where she can see the city`s best views from gleaming new windows. Chef Christian Messier will be serving a three-course brunch for $45, available from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

8. Is she a Midtown maven?? Chef Gary Mennie`s brunch at Livingston Restaurant + Bar includes a carving bar and a make-your-own Bloody Mary Bar for $35 ($12 extra for the bloodies) and $12.50 for kids 6-12. Kids under six eat free. There`s also a kids` buffet. For dinner he`ll be offering a special prix fixe, in addition to the regular menu, for $40. And the Georgian Terrace Hotel will offer a special $99 rate all weekend.

9. If comfort pub cuisine is more her scene then take her to HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern where moms get a free mimosa along with their delicious brunch.

10. If she loves Asian food you can`t go wrong with Straits.The Midtown eatery launches its new Sunday brunch on Mother`s Day with Singaporean specialties and American classics for $19 and $10 for kids12 - 5 . The little ones under five eat free. Enjoy $3 Mimosas by the glass and $15 Bottomless Mimosas and Bloody Mary`s.

2010-04-28T11:48:00.000-07:00

SPRING HAS SPRUNG AND MAMA MIA
HAVE WE GOT SOME FUN FOR YOU

(yes, it`s a play on words - don`t forget Mother`s Day)

Tonight`s the night and we`re feeling alright. So don`t miss tonight`s Spotlight on Design at SWITCH Modern featuring the fabulous architect Yong Pak. Mix and mingle with your designer friends, sip wine, nibble on cheese and hear Yong discuss the Modern sensibility he brings to Traditional and Classical architecture.While you`re there, grab a gift for mom. Nothing says I love you like Iittala`s classic Alvar Aalto Vase. This monthly event is becoming a real see and be seen - and you heard it here first.

Spring weather means patio time in Atlanta and there are so many breezy options. In the heart of Midtown, you`ll find Straits` newly opened patio featuring yummy dishes like Singaporean Shrimp Cocktail, Watermelon Salad, Grilled Ahi Tuna, Chilled Noodle Salad, Malaysian Roti Wraps, Kobe on Brioche, Straits Satay Sticks, Lamb "Lolli-Chops" and Sweet-Potato Fingers. A newcomer to the Ansley area, HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern has a three tiered patio with something for everyone and the place is always hopping. We could eat the soft pretzels and warm beer cheese dip all day long. For a modern twist on an Atlanta classic, check out the patio at Livingston Restaurant + Bar . You can`t beat Chef Gary Mennie`s fabulous food and you never know who you`ll see strolling down Peachtree or ambling out of the Fox. The Shed at Glenwood -- celebrating two years this week -- has a great little patio and we love that hot Chef Lance Gummere! You have to walk through the bar to get to the patio but that makes Shaun `s the best of both worlds -- you can check out who`s dining with whom in the restaurant, give our favorite bartender a wink (we love the Aviation cocktail thank you very much) and then relax on the patio, which is quietly tucked away in the back.

There is no better place to enjoy fabulous Mexican cuisine, tasty tequila cocktails and live music than at Bone Garden Cantina for Cinco de Mayo.Bone Garden Cantina knows how to throw one heck of a fiesta.The dining room and bar are donned with funky decor and the 50-seat patio will make you say arriba to alfresco.Enjoy food and drink specials all day long with live music by Big Mike Geier and his compadres, Tongo Hiti.Ladies from the Dames Aflame will also be dancing, mingling and passing around the chips and salsa.Shorties be on alert -- Mike Geier won`t be the only tall handsome man there for Cinco de Mayo, our favorite other tall handsome man, Michael Benoit, who created much of the restaurant`s amazing art, owns this hot spot along with his lovely wife Kristen, and we say oh-lay to them!

We hope that by 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 6, you`ve recovered from your Cinco de Mayo hangover because you have some shopping to do!! Tootsies is hosting a private shopping night to benefit our favorite hoofed honeys at Chastain Horse Park . Yes, we love our time in the saddle, but we never lose sight of how powerful it is to see a child get out of a wheelchair and onto the back of a horse. Not suprisingly - we`re the cry babies at their black tie and blue jeans gala every year when they lead an adorable child on horseback into the tent (Drew - thank you always for the hanky). We`re so lucky to have this world class facility in our backyard. Your closet is already bulging - what`s a few more pairs of stilettos, girl??

Note to self: Don`t be the fool scrambling to find a gift at Kroger with your shirt tails untucked, hair a mess, wearing two different shoes while running 30 minutes late for brunch with your mother. She raised you, loved you, held your hair back when you puked and made you feel guilty about it for the rest of your life. If you`d only married a doctor!! Stick with us - we have the perfect Mother`s Day gift ideas for every mother on your list. Of course you can`t beat Chocolate Pink Pastry Cafe for fabulous cakes, cupcakes and chocolates. We love that Michael Goodrich (and he loves his mom). Flowers more her style?? Look no further than Twelve. Our mom loves John McDonald. And why shouldn`t she?? He`s so crazy talented!! How about some pampering at Entebello? She deserves it. The facials are blissful and almost as m uch as we love Rachelle - we`re crazy about her mom. Time to redeem yourself for terrorizing your mother by intentionally getting "lost" at the mall?? Or how about the time(s) you coaxed your little sister onto the escalator by swearing you were right behind her?? Sucka!! Get them both a gift certificate to Tootsies and let them shop in peace! Speaking of sisters, from the moment we finished our Inman Park pal Susan White`s first novel, "Bound South," we were already rapt with her newly released second novel, "A Soft Place to Land," a captivating tale of two sisters` journey from Atlanta and beyond. If your mom`s a reader - she`ll love both books!

You found the perfect gift - check. Now it`s time to treat her to the ideal meal.Show her she`s tops atthe newly renovated Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View with its gleaming new windows showcasing the city`s best views. Chef Christian Messier will be serving a three-course brunch for $45, available from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Chef Gary Mennie`s is also serving up brunch at Livingston Restaurant + Bar including a carving bar and a make-your-own Bloody Mary Bar for $35 ($12 extra for the bloodies) and $12.50 for kids 6-12. Kids under six eat free. There`s also a kids` buffet. For dinner he`ll be offering a special prix fixe, in addition to the regular menu, for $40. And the Georgian Terrace Hotel will offer a special $99 rate all weekend. If comfort pub cuisine is more her scene then take her to HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern where moms get a free mimosa along with their delicious brunch. If she loves Asian food you can`t go wrong with Straits.The Midtown eatery launches its new Sunday brunch on Mother`s Day with Sinaporean specialties and American classics for$19 and $10 for kids12 - 5 . The little ones under five eat free.Enjoy $3 mimosas by the glass and $15 Bottomless Mimosas and Bloody Mary`s.

Movie Night at Castleberry Pointis fast becoming a must stop affair on the Castleberry Art Stroll and you won`t want to miss it on Friday, May 14, when the developer hosts an art show called "Go Dog Go," including a wine tasting and a screening of "Best in Show."We`ve assembled a pack of our favorite artists for "Go Dog Go," including Fred Gear, Jason Horton, Patti Krohngold, Michael Payne and Tommy Taylor. Their dog inspired paintings, photography, drawings, ink blots and more will be for sale in the live/work spaces with proceeds benefiting Castleberry Hill`s proposed Railside Dog Park.We love Freddy for providing ice cold Sweet Water beer!!

2010-04-22T11:59:00.000-07:00

DURING THE LAST FULL WEEKEND OF APRIL EVERY YEAR, REVELERS DESCEND ON THE BEST NEIGHBORHOOD IN THE CITY FOR OUR FAVORITE FESTIVAL. HERE`S AN INSIDER`S GUIDE TO THE 39TH ANNUAL INMAN PARK FEST

Festival kicks off with the annual Butterfly Ball, Friday, April 23, under the tent and featuring the toe-tapping sounds of King Sized. Of course heels kick, elbows fly and spirits soar. You may find yourself do-si-do-ing with that annoying neighbor whose Doberman uses your front lawn as his own personal bathroom. Sure, you cuss said neighborhood 364 days a year but on this night - kisses!!

Friday night is also is a great night to try Inman Park`s fabulous restaurants.Don`t just visit one - dine around and sample a little something at each spot: We love the Bacon Peanut Brittle at Sauced, East Village-Style Chopped Liver at Shaun`s, Fried Mushrooms at Fritti, Tre P Pasta at Sotto Sotto (only availalbe in the spring), YaYa Fries at Rathbun`s, Cheese Plate at Krog Bar, Steaks at Rathbun Steak and the Burger at Serpas. Whew!

Spring cleaning abounds during the weeks leading up to Festival. All eyes will be on Inman Park so you`re not just mowing your lawn to keep up with the Joneses, you`ll want to impress the Smiths, Roths, Browns, Greens and Whites who will be checking out your garden all weekend long. In preparation, you`ll find weekend warriors weeding, planting, painting and waxing. Wait, what?? Yes - you heard us - waxing. Spring cleaning abounds at our favorite waxing studio - where everything must go - WAX!!

Inman Park is the last standing Victorian neighborhood. Originally developed in the late 1800s, it was the city`s premier neighborhood and home to the bon vivant. A fickle aristocracy migrated to Druid Hills, Ansley Park and Buckhead leaving the neighborhood to fall into disrepair from the 1910s to the late 1960s when a band of young doctors, lawyers and such moved into these spectacular homes, seeing potential in their run down facades. Today the neighborhood shines and we`re so darn proud to be a part of it. Be nosey and take the Tour of Homes to see what`s inside some of these amazing homes.

On Saturday at 2 p.m. the city`s quirkiest and most colorful parade kicks off, led by the Inman Park Butterfly followed by floats, bands, art cars, politicians, drill teams, Kelly`s Seed and Feed Marching Abominable Band, clowns, jugglers, and more. Best spot for parade watching: two fabulous homes along Edgewood Avenue belonging to Atlanta advertising legends. Who are they?? We`ll never tell!

We`re super excited about the debut of 145, a gallery collaborative including Barbara Archer Gallery, Wm Turner Gallery, Opal Gallery and whitespace. The group will premiere with the "The Skies Over Atlanta: Where Euclid Meets Edgewood," a video and sound installation in a former church called Lizzie Chapel. The piece, created by Neil Fried, Evan Levy, Priscilla Smith and Jerry Cullum, is an homage to changing neighborhoods. It uses film footage that Fried has shot over the years in the Inman Park and Fourth Ward areas, plus new footage shot expressly for the piece and a sculpture by Levy.The image here is of Deacon Lunchbox`s early 1990s funeral in Little Five Points -- a sad day for Atlanta`s music community.

Saturday night marks the 20th annual Theater Night, starting at 7:30p under the tent. After doing the funky chicken at the Butterfly Ball and a day of party hopping revelry, a dedicated band of theater-goers plows on where others have passed out. They load their golf carts with picnic baskets and bottles of wine to see four theater companies including our favorite - Dad`s Garage - along with Horizon Theater, 7 Stages and Synchronicity. Tables are sold out but "stadium seating" is available for the first time this year for $20. If you just can`t rally by 7:30p - and we don`t judge - head on over to Dad`s Garage for TheatreSports at 10:30p

Throughout the weekend you can stroll through Atlanta`s biggest street market, offering everything from antique furniture to handcrafted wares, as well as ajuried arts and crafts show featuring some of the Southeast`s finest artists. There`s also music under the tent and in the park. Of course our truly favorite part of Festival is the carnival food. Sizzling hot corn dogs and fresh squeezed lemonade can be found at the corner of Hurt Street and Euclid Avenue. There`s great gyros along Euclid before you get to the tent if you`re walking toward downtown. You`ll find fries drenched in bacon, cheese and ranch dressing at the corner of Waverly and Edgewood. And you can find the most fabulous funnel cakes near the corn dogs at Euclid and Hurt as well as on Euclid by the tent going away from downtown.

2010-04-14T07:08:00.001-07:00

YOU`VE GOT 11 MONTHS UNTIL YOU HAVE TO PAY YOUR TAXES AGAIN - LET`S CELEBRATE!!

In the world of fashion, fabulous spring weather means even more fabulous fall trunk shows. Don`t miss the Lela Rose Fall Collection - for two days only - at Tootsies this Thursday, April 15 and Friday, April 16. You can`t go wrong with Lela. And fall will be here before you know it (well, sort of).

The weather is so darn beautiful and one of the best ways to enjoy it is in Piedmont Park this weekend during the Dogwood Festival. Don`t miss HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern and the Sun Dial Restaurant & Bar on Saturday and Livingston Restaurant + Bar on Sunday at the " Friends of Dogwood Pavilion ," a ticketed event, offering an upscale hospitality experience. This fabulous food and wine fete will be held in the newly renovated, multi-million dollar, Greystone event facility in the heart of Piedmont Park.

When you`re not basking in the beautiful weather, check out some of the fabulous films at the Atlanta Film Festival April 15-23, featuring tons of movies, parties and signature events. Of note, Grammy Award-winning performance artist Chris "Ludacris" Bridges will present the Academy Award-nominated "Crash," on Wednesday, April 21 at 7 p.m. at the Landmark Midtown Art Cinema with an after party following the screening at Straits .

Another awesome event you won`t want to miss is The Atlanta Contemporary Art Center`s first Nexus Award, Wednesday, April 21. The award is presented in recognition of demonstrated excellence and achievement by individuals who have made a profound contribution to the visual arts in Atlanta and beyond. And this year`s winners are.....(pan the audience).....(pregnant pause).....Dr. Andrea Barnwell Brownlee - Director of the Spelman College Museum of Fine Art, and Dr. Jerry Cullum - Editor at Large of Art Papers. Woo hoo!!! Tickets are $60 per person in advance/$75 at the door. For more information go to www.nexusaward.com

It`s that time of year again: the Inman Park Festival kicks off Friday, April 23 with the Butterfly Ball, the most irreverent black tie ball in the city. The festival continues through the weekend including the Atlanta`s biggest arts market, the most hilarious parade ever, a tour of city`s finest Victorian and Craftsman style homes, live entertainment and our favorite - corn dogs galore. Yes - carnival food. You know you love it. We do too!!

And speaking of foods we love - what is it with loving foods we have to work for?? Ok we`re not out in the fields farming - although we have immense respect for farmers - but waiting until 10 p.m. for a burger is work!! Now we have a new workout goal: Bone Garden Cantina`s Sonoran Hot Dog, only available between 2 and 6 p.m. Frankly, this is more do-able for us than, say the 12 a.m. Dollar-Makes-You-Hollar Hot Dog at HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern , but for night owls - that`s a deal. And while both are worth checking out, Bone Garden puts some work into theirs - it`s candy-cane wrapped in bacon and grilled, fusing the two delicious flavors into one. Then its stuffed in a fresh Bolillo, topped with seasoned pinto beans, pico de gallo, grilled onions, jalapenos and mayonnaise and served with a side of tomatillo-guacamole sauce. Night owl or afternoon snacker?? Have it your way!!

Don`t miss the next Spotlight on Design at SWITCH Modern, on Wednesday, April 28, featuringthe fabulous architect Yong Pak. Mix and mingle with your designer friends, sip wine, nibble on cheese and hear Yong discuss the Modern sensibility hebrings to Traditional and Classical architecture

2010-04-01T13:37:00.000-07:00

WE PITY THE FOOL WHO ISN`T OUT ENJOYING THIS BEAUTIFUL WEATHER. WITH SO MUCH TO DO - WHO HAS TIME TO FRET ABOUT THE CRUELEST MONTH?

Don`t miss tonight`s Spotlight on Design at SWITCH Modern featuring none other than the fabulous interior designer, Bill Peace of Peace Design. Mix and mingle with your designer friends, sip wine, nibble on cheese and hear about Bill`s thoughts on timeless design, the contrast of Modern and Rustic and the art of creating a lifestyle through design. PLEASE RSVP NOW.
The Easter Bunny`s working overtime this Sunday with so many places to go!! Livingston Restaurant + Bar will showcase Chef Gary Mennie`s spring-inspired all-day buffet, carving station and bottomless Bloody Mary and Mimosa Bar. Adults pay $35 and just $12 more for the Bottomless Bloody Mary and Mimosa Bar. Children ages 6-12 are $12.50 and kids 5 and under eat free.The Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View has tricks for the kids by magician Ken Scott and a special three-course $45 brunch menu for the young at heart from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Our favorite Buckhead spa - Entebello - is helping us celebrate spring with $35 mani/pedis. There`s no better place to get pampered and with so many hot new nail polish colors we`ll be toe-tapping in our Louboutins!!

At Tootsies on Thursday, April 8, Michele Caplinger, Sona Chambers, Omara Harris, Jen Hobby, Tammy Hurt, Patti Krohngold, E. Vincent Martinzez, Robanne Schulman and Jan Smith will host a night of private shopping to benefit MusiCares including an in-person appearance by hot young designer Caycee Black.Guests can enjoy cocktails, Chocolate Pink Pastry Cafe cupcakes and Caycee Black`s Spring 2010 Collection.

Castleberry Point presents art, a movie, wine and more on Friday, April 9, during the Castleberry Art Stroll. PROJECT PUSHPIN, a bi-monthly event which invites photographers to post and sell photos with 50% of the proceeds benefitting the American Red Cross Haiti Earthquake Relief Fund. The event will take place from 7 to 10 p.m. in two adjacent spaces around the Castleberry Point courtyard: ZuCot Gallery and Castleberry Point`s raw retail area. In addition, there are two site-specific installations in the retail space: One is by the installation art class of SCAD Atlanta and the other the artist HENSE. Castleberry Point`s will also premier the film "Sideways," in partnership with Atlanta Film Festival 365 and Castleberry Pointâ€™s fabulous wine store, The Wine Shoe.The Wine Shoe will begin $10 wine tastings at 6 p.m. The movie starts at 9 p.m.There is free covered parking for all Castleberry Point revelers.

We are super excited about The Atlanta Contemporary Art Center`s first Nexus Award, Wednesday, April 21, in recognition of demonstrated excellence and achievement by individuals who have made a profound contribution to the visual arts in Atlanta and beyond. And the winners are.....(drum roll).....(baited breath).....Dr. Andrea Barnwell Brownlee - Director of the Spelman College Museum of Fine Art, and Dr. Jerry Cullum - Editor at Large of Art Papers. Woo hoo!!! Tickets are $60 per person in advance/$75 at the door. For more information go to www.nexusaward.com

2010-03-15T11:03:00.000-07:00

ET TU, SPRING?? WE BUNDLED UP IN OUR PUFFY JACKET THROUGH THE COLD AND WE WERE WELL-HEELED IN OUR TORY BURCH JELLIES IN THE RAIN - WE`RE OVER IT! BRING ON THE GREEN BEER, WINE DINNERS, SPRING FASHIONS, BACON AND DESIGN!

Did you know that during the Mexican-American War of 1846, a rogue band of Irish immigrant soldiers defected from the U.S. Army to fight with the Mexicans?? Celebrate Viva Los San Patricios at the Bone Garden Cantina on Wednesday, March 17 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. with green margaritas, buckets of beer and Sonoran Hot Dogs - the infamous Mexican hot dog wrapped in bacon and served in a fresh Mexican roll with delicious toppings.
HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern will celebrate St. Pattys a bit more traditionally with $3 green beer, $5 car bombs and Chef Brett Ring`s special Corned Beef, Potatoes and Braised Cabbage for $12.95. Start looking out for late night specials coming soon!

We are so excited about the The High Museum Wine Auction! Just weeks away, there is no better way to kick off the weekend than with Chef Gary Mennie`s special four-course Wine Dinner on Thursday, March 25, at Livingston Restaurant + Bar. This will sell out!! Chef Mennie is partnering with Lambert Bridge and Reynolds Family Winery and the menu looks amazing!

Art, shopping, wine and hors d`oeuvres by HOBNOB- these are a few of our favorite things!! Tootsies will unveil the Charles Chang-Lima collection at a special private shopping event, Thursday, March 25 at 6 p.m. to benefit The Atlanta Contemporary Art Center. All the fabulous ladies will be there including hosts Tamara Kimble (you loved her at NBAF - don`t miss her at Tootsies), Deborah Marshall, Sarah Danielson and Nancy Hooff.

Who doesn`t love bacon?? And who doesn`t think that Dad`s Garage is the funniest theater on the planet?? So combine the two and you have BaconFest, back and bacon-eer than ever! On Saturday, March 27 you can go hog wild at Dad`s annual fundraiser (yep, Dad`s Garage is a non-profit company - you can make a donation here), but there won`t be any black ties or ball gowns (whew), just improv, bands, an auction and - you guessed it - a whole bunch of bacon and fun!

The architect William Carpenter wowed the crowd at last month`s Spotlight on Design at SWITCH Modern. This month`s event on Wednesday, March31, will feature none other than Bill Peace of Peace Design - an amazing interior designer and super nice guy.We can`t think of a better place to mix and mingle with our designer friends while sipping wine and nibbling on cheese than SWITCH Modern and we are so excited about Bill Peace - he`s designed everything from a stable to the Original El Taco (horses and Mexican food - now these are a few of our favorite things!).

2010-03-07T13:18:00.001-08:00

IS THAT WARM WEATHER OR ARE WE EXPERIENCING A HOT FLASH?? SERIOUSLY - WE CAN`T WAIT FOR SPRING. BUT WE ARE EXCITED ABOUT ALL THAT MARCH HAS TO OFFER - BEAUTY, FASHION, WINE & FOOD, MOVIES, ART AND MORE!!

As seen in Daily Candy`s Best Of Beauty Products: Don`t miss the exclusive launch of BECCA`s new Boudoir Skin Collection at Entebello ! Book your one-on-one appointment with BECCA National Makeup Artist Jo Wysocki to experience flawless looking skin and a new look for spring. Plus with any BECCA purchase of $75 or more get a fabulous Gift With Purchase. This Friday, March 5 & Saturday, March 6 -- a ppointments are filling up fast!

Swing into Spring at Hot Happenings at Tootsies at Shops Around Lenox this weekend - Friday, March 4 to Saturday, March 6. See a sneak peak of some of the country`s top designers` Spring and Fall 2010 collections including LEIFSDOTTIR, Introduction by Eda, give a penny.designs, Sara Claire & Esther and more. Nibble on yummy Chocolate Pink Pastry Cafe cupcakes - we love them!!

The Academy may overlooked you this year but that doesn`t mean you can`t eat like a star!! You`ll find us party hopping -- Straits Restaurant owner, GRAMMY award-winning artist and actor Chris "Ludacris" Bridges will host an Oscar party at his Midtown eatery, Straits, on Sunday, March 7.The event kicks off at 7 p.m. with VIP Red Carpet. Admission is $25 to benefit the Ludacris Foundation and includes heavy passed hors d`oeuvres and one Conjure Cocktail.To make your reservation, please call Straits at 404-877-1283. HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern, recently opened in a former Caribou Coffee at Piedmont and Monroe, will have the TVs tuned to Oscar and diners can enjoy comfort pub cuisine. Of note - for $14.95 they will be serving a special Goldschlager Milkshake and the Oscar Spring Roll.

Movies and artwork and wine -- oh my!!On Friday, March 12, to coincide with Castleberry Hill`s Art Stroll, the developers of Castleberry Point will unveil two site-specific installations in the retail space: One is by the installation art class of SCAD Atlanta and the other the artist HENSE. They will also premiere Castleberry Point`s Movie Night with the film "Sideways," in partnership with Atlanta 365 (Atlanta Film Festival) and Castleberry Point`s fabulous wine store, The Wine Shoe.The Wine Shoe will begin wine tastings at 6 p.m. and the movie starts at 9 p.m.

The High Museum Wine Auction is just weeks away and Chef Gary Mennie is gearing up for a special four-course Detailed Pairings, Dine Around Dinner on Thursday, March 25, at Livingston Restaurant + Bar. This will sell out!!Chef Mennie is partnering with Lambert Bridge and Reynolds Family Winery and the menu looks amazing!

2010-02-17T07:10:00.000-08:00

BRRRRRR!!! WHY GO OUTSIDE WHEN THERE`S SO MUCH FUN FASHION, FOOD, FINE ART AND FOUNDATION TO ENJOY INSIDE?? HERE`S WHERE YOU`LL FIND US!!

It`s lunchtime, you`re in Midtown and you need to impress. Enjoy Chef Gary Mennie`s fabulous food at a great price in under 45 minutes at Livingston Restaurant + Bar`s new "Business Lunch." Two courses for $12 in 45 minutes or less withcomplimentary parking.

You won`t want to miss this one!! HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern opens this Friday, February 19 and it`s just what you`ve been waiting for. Great food and hopping bar in a warm atmosphere at a great price. Remember the old Caribou at the corner of Piedmont and Monroe? Who needs coffee when you can enjoy craft beers, boozy milkshakes, big burgers,pizzas and pretzels dipped in warm cheese & beer sauce??

Swank, the cutting-edge Birmingham boutique, opens at the Shops Around Lenox today featuring a well-edited selection of designer clothing, footware and accessories by Barbara Bui, Black Halo, IODICE, Vivienne Westwood, Mara Hoffman and Vivienne Tam

We love Bill Carpenter and we can`t wait to hear his presentation during the first Spotlight On Design event at SWITCH Modern, Wednesday, February 24 from 6:30 to 8:30p. Enjoy wine and hors d`oeuvres along with Bill`s scintillating insights on design. This is where all your fabulous designer friends will be hanging out and with an extensive selection of incredible modern furniture and accessories - you might pick up a little something something for your home.

Get your Prada on for the season`s hottest fashion event -- National Black Arts Festival`s Fine Art + Fashion on Thursday, February 25. Event chairs Tamara Kimble and Holli Easton are fabulous. The beautiful actress, author and foster care advocate Victoria Rowell is the celebrity host. And sweet Frank Ski is hosting the after-party featuring the Afro-Cuban band Rio Negro.

Say ole to Flag Day at The Bone Garden Cantina on Saturday, February 27, during a day-long celebration featuring fun music and decorations plus food and drink specials inspired by the colors of the Mexican Flag (like red, green and white jello shots!). Flag Day marks Mexico `s independence from Spain .

Get the flawless skin of celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow, Cameron Diaz, Julia Roberts, Sienna Miller and Alicia Keys at Entebello Modern Apothecary and Spa during the exclusive launch of the new Boudoir Skin Collection by BECCA onFriday, March 5 and Saturday, March 6. Schedule your one-on-one consultation today with BECCA`s nationally renowned makeup artist Jo Wysocki and receive a complimentary BECCA gift with the purchase of $75 or more.

2010-02-02T09:29:00.000-08:00

OUR 14 FAVORITE THINGS TO DO IN FEBRUARY

1. On Tuesdays bring a friend to Entebello, a modern day apothecary and spa, and receive a buy-one-get-one-free manicure.2. Kiss-and-Makeup from Monday, February 8 to Saturday, Feburary 13. Entebello is offering 20 percent off makeup and makeup bags and a complimentary lip pumping gloss with a purchase of $100 or more.

3.Enjoy Chef Gary Mennie`s Millionaire Mondays at Livingston Restaurant + Bar, featuring steak or lobster, soup or salad and a side for $16 -- we`re not kidding!

4. Let Chef Mennie do the cooking for the Big Game this coming Sunday - pick up platters of Cajan Po`Boys in honor of the Saints or Hoagies in the spirit of the Colts. Orders must be placed by Saturday. Call now 404-897-5000.

5.Do dinner at Livingston and a show at The Fox for Valentine`s Weekend. Chef Mennie`s cooking up three courses for $40 and Mama Mia is playing at the Fox.

6. If you really want to show her you care (this means you) - enjoy a weekend of luxury at The Georgian Terrace Hotel including breakfast in bed, champagne and chocolate covered strawberries. One night is $179 and the second is just $79.

7. The Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View reopened this weekend with new windows, new floors and more. Playing host to more engagements than any other restaurant in Atlanta, The Sun Dial is the place to be for Valentine`s Weekend. Enjoy Chef Christian Messier`s three-course prix fixe menu for $69.

8. What`s not to love about The Shed at Glenwood?? Great neighborhood vibe, amazing food (Slider Night -- $3 sliders on Wednesdays!!) and a smoking hot chef - you can`t beat it. For Valentine`s Day, Chef Lance Gummere is serving three courses for $45.

9. You can always count on The Shed`s owner Cindy Shera to host the best wine dinners and on Tuesday, February 23, she won`t disappoint. Make your reservations now for the Honig Wine Dinner -- $85 per person.

10. Amid all your restaurant hopping and shopping plans, take a minute to think about those four-legged friends who are less fortunate than you. Georgia has a staggering rate of unwanted pets. You can help. Join New Leash on Life, Thursday, February 11 for "Licks of Love" at Mason Murer.

11. If Valentine`s Day finds you shopping for a microphone and the running man instead of candy and flowers, you`re not alone. But you are a little weird. No judgement. Take yourself on down to Gilbert`s Mediterranean Cafe for karaoke and a four-course $49 menu on Sunday, February 14.

12. On Wednesday, February 24, SWITCH will host a Spotlight on Design event featuring the fabulous architect William Carpenter .Come enjoy wine, great conversation and all things modern.

13. You can`t go home hungry: Also on Wednesday, February 24, The Bone Garden Cantina will celebrate Mexican Flag Day with a special menu -- think over 40 tequilas and authentic California-style Mexican cuisine. Flag Day commemorates the birth of the Mexican flag in 1821, marking their independence from Spain. Did you know that the green in the flag represents hope and victory, the white represents purity and ideals and the red stands for the blood shed by national heroes?

14. Round out the month with National Black Arts Festival`s Fine Art + Fashion on Thursday, February 25. We love this event because event chairs Tamara Kimble and Holli Easton are so freaking fabulous. And because the beautiful actress, author and foster care advocate Victoria Rowell is the celebrity host. Plus because Frank Ski is hosting the after-party featuring the Afro-Cuban band Rio Negro.

2010-01-15T14:53:00.000-08:00

Here's What's Hot In Inman Park - Tonight

tangent
new paintings by tommy taylor
at white space tonight from 7 to 10 p.m.
814 edgewood avenue

- We love his work! We love this gallery! All our friends will be there!

Everyone`s talking about Sauced - tonight would be a great night to check it out -

- This is Ria Pell from Ria`s Bluebird in Grant Park - you know you love her breakfast and lunch now meet her dinner.
- We`ve told you about the Bacon Peanut Brittle (for real!).
- But did we mention the Rosemary-Skewered Chicken Livers, Ribs Confit and Guinness-Braised Short Rib Wellington??

So now that you`ve got your art on and had a bite to eat - there`s just one more thing that will make your night complete -

- You guesed it - a heart-shaped wax!!
- "I Heart WAX" at our favorite waxing studio WAXcomes just on time for Valentine`s Day.
- A heart shaped wax and a box of pink or red Betty dye for $70- the heart only is $59.Because no outfit is complete without one!

2010-01-14T10:23:00.000-08:00

Top 10 for 2010

Today`s paper says it best - there`s new energy at Dad`s Garage!! We`re so excited about the new artistic director, Kevin Gillese (not Gillespie - although he rocked on "Top Chef"). Not only is he fabulously talented, he blew us away last night when he spoke fluent French to the chef and GM at Joel (yum). Welcome!!

We can`t think of a better way to start the year than with new views!! The Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View re-opens atop the Westin Peachtree Plaza in late January. This Atlanta institution will showcase new windows and a new floor - just in time for Valentine`s Day, where more folks will get engaged than at any other restaurant in the city.

The best new deal in town is Millionaire Mondays, the brand new promotion at Livingston Restaurant + Bar, where you can get whole lobster or fillet, soup or salad and one side for $16. You don`t have to be a millionaire to eat like one!!

The hottest spot in Inman Park - Sauced, is Ria Pell`s new eatery on Edgewood Avenue - conveniently located across from our office. She`s the real deal - get there now because once the word gets out you`ll for sure have to wait in line for yummy dishes like bacon peanut brittle!!

HOBNOB is set to open early next month by the guys who brought you Gilbert`s in Midtown. Think comfort pub cuisine - extensive craft beer selection - fabulous beer and wine pairing - a heated patio - and a warm neighborhood environment.

Beautiful Amber O`Neal`s Cafe Physique offers personal trainers who will come to you for the price of an in-studio workout. Take advantage of their mobile fitness package -- in-home service for the studio price, good through February.

Turquoise is the color of 2010 and we`re loving the Anna G. Corkscrew in turquoise available at SWITCH Modern.

It`s the year of living comfortably since our fabulous friend Christine Eisner published her hot seller "Comfort Living," late last year. We`re counting our "treasures" and "campfires" and you should too!! We can`t wait for our next Comfort Living Club.

We`re bringing a friend to our favorite Buckhead spa - Entebello for "Two For Tuesday," buy-one-treat-a-friend-to-one-free-manicure every Tuesday in February. We`re also getting our value proposition on with "Kiss and Makeup," 20 percent off makeup and makeup bags and a free gloss. Last - but not least - this one`s for the ladies.

Nothing says I love you like a heart, and our favorite Inman Park waxing studio, WAX, is cracking us up with the "I Heart WAX" promotion on time for Valentine`s Day. Ladies - don`t wait around for it - go out and get yourself a heart shaped wax and a box of pink or red Betty dye for $70- the heart only is $59.

2009-07-21T15:19:00.001-07:00

HOW WE CHANNEL OUR INNER HOLLY GOLIGHTLY FOR THE “BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY’S” SCREENING AT THE FABULOUS FOX THEATER THIS THURSDAY, JULY 23

We head over to Tootsies to buy a little black dress by Black Halo

We hit the chair at Van Michael for an updo

We grab a drink at the Bar at Livingston in the Georgian Terrace and hum “Moon River”

www.foxtheatre.org
www.tootsies.com
www.vanmichael.com
www.livingstonatlanta.com

WHERE WE SAY OLÉ ON NATIONAL TEQUILA DAY, FRIDAY, JULY 24

The recessionista in us loves The Original El Taco’s Frozen Margarita featuring tequila, fresh citrus sour and triple sec for $5.95 by the glass and $25 for a pitcher

When we’re feeling like a big spender, we go to Straits for the Millionaire’s Margarita, which is shaken and served on-the-rocks with a side shot of Herradura Reposado Tequila and 100 year-old Grand Marnier for $25.

When we win the Lottery, we’re ordering a round of Straits’ Billionaire’s Margaritas for the house!! It’s shaken and served on-the-rocks with a side shot of Partida Blanco Tequila and 150 year-old Grand Marnier for $50.

www.eltaco-atlanta.com
www.straitsatl.com

WHY WE’LL BE AT THE SHED AT GLENWOOD FOR THE MEET THE ARTIST EVENT NEXT TUESDAY, JULY 28

Delicious Volteo Spanish Wines and Chef Lance Gummere’s fabulous hors d’oeuvres during the event and then we can stay and enjoy the starving artist/collector discount for dinner with friends

Artist David E. Peterson is highly collectible. His work can be found on the walls of Repast, Shaun’s and The Shed at Glenwood. He uses resin on wood to create depth, enabling his work to be viewed on multiple levels. He finds influence in pop culture, design and architecture

Krause Gallery owner Benjamin Krause, his wife Kate and their adorable baby Julian look like they popped out of Dwell magazine – seriously, come for the art, stay for the food and check out this fabulous family.

www.theshedatglenwood.com
www.krausegallery.com

2009-06-24T09:44:00.000-07:00

WHAT HOT LOOKS ARE KEEPING US COOL FROM TOOTSIES --

The maxi dress – everyone’s wearing them – and we love the ones by Trina Turk, Ella Moss and Tibi

Tory Burch flip flops – comfortable and cute

White jeans by JBrand, Citizens of Humanity and Seven

www.tootsies.com

HOW WE CELEBRATE THE RED, WHITE AND BLUE WITH A VIEW DURING FOURTH OF JULY AT THE SUN DIAL RESTAURANT, BAR AND VIEW --

Chef Christian Messier’s special three-course menu on the Restaurant Level, for $69 served from 5:30 until 10:45 p.m. with access to the festivities on the Bar Level

Buffet-style picnic fare on the View Level with from 7 to 10 p.m., for $45 for adults/$20 for children ages six to 12; children five and under are free. For an extra $10, guests can enjoy the festivities on the Bar Level

The Bar Level will open at 5 p.m. with a $30 cover charge that includes one alcoholic beverage. live entertainment by musical duo Lauren Barnett and the Hat Cats

http://www.sundialrestaurant.com/

HOW DR. CHIP COLE KEEPS US LOOKING RADIANT AS WE PRACTICE SAFE SUN

We use the best sunscreens including Jan Marini Antioxidant Daily Face Protectant, NIA 24 Sun Damage Prevention Mineral Sunscreen and JOURNEE Bio-Restorative Day Cream

We where Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup with UVA/UVB SPF 20 broad spectrum sun protection

We get checked – we’ve had way too much fun in the sun so we visit Dr. Cole annually for careful examination of melanomas

2009-06-10T08:52:00.000-07:00

WHY WE LOVE SLIDER NIGHT - EVERY WEDNESDAY - AT THE SHED AT GLENWOOD –

$3 Sliders
Weekly changing varieties including Chicken Salad, Fried Chicken, Pork Belly BLT, Schnitzel, Vegetables and Angus Burger Sliders
Chef Lance Gummere’s culinary influence was Jack Tripper from the sitcom “Three’s Company,” who lived with two hot babes!!

www.theshedatglenwood

HOW WE SHOW POPS HE'S TOPS FOR FATHER'S DAY AT THE SUN DIAL RESTAURANT, BAR AND VIEW --

Chef Christian Messier’s special three-course manly menu for $40 from 11:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.
Dads’ Clubhouse on the View Level featuring a putting green, wii station and Sweetwater Beer Tasting amid amazing views of the city.
Raffle for Dad to win two tickets to watch the Atlanta Braves take on the New York Mets on July 18th at Turner Field

www.sundialrestaurant.com

WHAT HAD REVELERS ROCKING AT THE GEORGIAN TERRACE HOTEL GRAND RE-OPENING --

An $11 million renovation including Livingston, acclaimed Chef Gary Mennie’s inventive new restaurant; a complete refreshing of the lobby; a third ballroom and board room; new beds, new HD TVs and complimentary high speed Wi-Fi internet throughout the property; and several redesigned and updated guest rooms and suites.
Entertainment by Kingsized and Dames Aflame in the refurbished Grand Ballroom and Francine Reed in the historic Piedmont Ballroom along with a DJ on the rooftop pool.
Models donning 40s-inspired fashions by Mychael Knight lounging in the lobby one wearing Knight’s first-ever wedding dress in the highly appointed Penthouse Bridal Suite

www.thegeorgianterrace.com

2009-05-25T17:20:00.001-07:00

So many celebs enter the world of restaurant ownership thinking that if they put their name on it, diners will come. Their logic seems to be that because they like eating in a restaurant they are thus qualified to own a restaurant. For diners that means here today and gone tomorrow restaurant concepts - like so many of said celebs' careers. And for critics it translates to fodder for scathing reviews. The problem always seems to be that they lend their prestige -- not their business savvy or sweat-and-tears. Someone should tell them that, like everything in life -- you get out of it what you put into it.

But when Chris "Ludacris" Bridges set out to open a restaurant, he defied the odds by being a hands-on operator and serving great food at Straits, his Singaporean restaurant in the heart of Atlanta's Midtown. Food and Wine gave it 10 pages in the May issue and it recieved nods from diners as well. Singaporean cuisine may seem like a departure for a Grammy-award winning Hip Hop star but Bridges was confident that by putting the right people in the kitchen and on the floor - he would have a hit.

Bridges was right. One year later, the restaurant has enjoyed positive press, a packed dining room and a buzzing bar. On Friday, May 22, Jane Fonda and Mayor Shirley Franklin joined Bridges in toasting Straits' one-year anniversary. Here's to hands-on celebrity operators and Straits in Midtown -- I'll be at the bar drinking a Lychee Martini and eating the Chicken Lollipops.

2009-04-06T13:22:00.000-07:00

On the heels of an $11 million, Atlanta will welcome back an historic jewel when the Georgian Terrace grand opens in May. Located in the heart of the city’s arts and culture district across from the Fox Theatre, the Georgian Terrace was built in 1910, and opened to the public on October 2, 1911 at a gala attended by thousands. At the time, it was lauded as Atlanta's finest hotel.

Designed by New York architect, William L. Stoddart, whose legacy includes 26 significant works of architecture scattered throughout the eastern U.S., the Georgian Terrace Hotel was designed in the Beaux Arts style as a Southern interpretation of a Parisian hotel featuring turreted corners, floor-to-ceiling Palladian-style windows and wide wrap-around columned terraces throughout. Details such as crystal chandeliers, white marble columns, elliptical staircases and Italian tiled floors solidified its mark as the height of elegance.

The Georgian Terrace Hotel was designed to address both Ponce and Peachtree streets through the use of the turreted corners connecting the two facades. This effect was further enhanced by the curving facade of the neighboring Ponce de Leon Apartments, also designed by Stoddart, and opened in 1913. Together, the Georgian Terrace Hotel and the Ponce de Leon Apartments form an elegant gateway to Ponce de Leon Avenue. The prominence of the intersection was assured with the construction of the "Fabulous" Fox Theatre in 1927, one of the largest theatres built during the height of the golden age of movie palaces.

The hotel has played host to many of Atlanta’s most notable events, including the teachings of dance legend Arthur Murray in the Grand Ballroom, the “Gone With the Wind” premiere and, during World War II, the hotel’s ballrooms hosted numerous fundraisers for the war effort. The hotel served as a popular gathering place for wealthy Atlantans and emerged as a symbol of the resurrection of the Southern capital from its faded Civil War ruins. The hotel sits on the former site of the two-story home of Mayor Livingston Mims, elected in 1900, and whose legacy was the creation of Atlanta’s streetcars.

chocolate is the new high

2009-03-06T14:35:00.000-08:00

It's a beautiful day in Atlanta and after way too much fun at the barn I dragged myself into the office. I'm not a total truant. I came in before I rode and then worked from the blackberry at the barn (and in the car) but I needed to knock out real some work. I wasn't at my desk for 30 minutes before my good friend Todd Murphy called with a distraction. Todd is the pied piper of fun and I'll always follow him into the mountain. He tells me there's this incredible chocolate place and we've got to go. Clearly this was more important than work. Research!! I mean this could be a huge amazing new trend. I'm on my way!! And as deluded as that sounds - it is actually a huge amazing new trend!!

Cacao Atlanta is Kristen Hard's fabulous new 3,000 square-foot laboratoire and boutique full of exquisite chocolates. It's pristine and highly designed -- all created by Kristen. Golden haired, blue eyed with porcelin skin and incredible bone structure, she's the worst kind of pusher. Kirsten is the only woman doing this in the nation. And she does it all -- she formulated the concept, makes all the chocolates (having trained in Italy) and holds court behind the counter. This is a small but growing trend and she's right on the cusp of it.

Todd and I sidled up to the bar and were like junkies to a fix. She started us out with the aphrodisiac chocolate ice cream. Harmless -right? She slowly moved us onto the hard stuff: ginger chocolate buddhas, meltaway mint chocolates, salted chocolate caramels and these crazy little cupcakes. We were soaring. But it was a clean buzz. And while I was prepared for the processed sugar crash, four hours later I'm fine. I'm prepared to be addicted and I like it.

There's nothing processed, mass produced or artificial about this place. It's the real deal. Don't miss it.

Friendraisers

2009-02-16T09:54:00.000-08:00

As the economy falls harder than socialite off her stilletos, everyone is feeling the pinch. Whether you live pay check-to-pay check or find your hundred million dollar portfolio worth just tens of millions, you're watching your wallet. So when you have to choose between paying the power bill or making a charity donation, it's your makeup mirror that will likely stay lit. Charities are struggling now more than ever to raise funds and awareness. The traditional fundraising model is outdated. Chairties have to be creative. There are so many worthy causes but the truth is, people give to people. Friendraisers may be the next fundraisers. To the outside observer, they appear to be the same - they cost the charity little to nothing to produce ie email invitation over print, food/beverage sponsors and a donated location. The main difference is that the goal is to make new friends and keep the old. Stay top-of-mind with your constituents and build your brand with a new audience. In the end, when the economy turns -- and it will -- these friends will likely become donors. It's a long term goal but one that will keep you ahead of the pack in the end.

2009-02-13T12:55:00.000-08:00

Let's face it - whether you're single or in a relationship, Valentine's Day is generally a big fat let down. Don't get my wrong - I'm no scrooge. I believe in love and hope that everyone finds it. But Valentine's Day always feels forced. I say make any day a day of romance. Send flowers and candy when they're least expected. Put on some hot lingerie just for kicks. Turn on your love light and let it shine whenever. This Valentine's Day - whether you're single or in a relationship - knock one back at DRINKSHOP. Seriously - I didn't start this blog to shamelessly promote my clients all the time but nothing says I love you like a hand crafted haute cocktail with one of five kinds of ice.

liz lapidus pr

TOP 10 WAYS TO SHOW YOUR MOTHER THE LOVE

SPRING HAS SPRUNG AND MAMA MIAHAVE WE GOT SOME FUN FOR YOU

(yes, it`s a play on words - don`t forget Mother`s Day)

chocolate is the new high

Friendraisers

SPRING HAS SPRUNG AND MAMA MIA
HAVE WE GOT SOME FUN FOR YOU