Hey Georgeous loves your Valentine’s day curves

Hey Gorgeous, as you know Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and for many women, digging up date-night looks that they’ll feel great in and their partner will LOVE can be a challenge. When you are a woman with “curves” that sometimes can pose another ‘challenge’. I mean, I love my curves and want my man to love them too, but not every designer shows me love.

That said, for the nearly 7 out of 10 women in the U.S. who are size 12 and above, finding fashion-forward options that fit well is an even bigger style struggle. Thankfully, Hey Gorgeous! promises an easy, fashion-conscious experience for women to shop the trends they love – all available in your size. With a cherry-picked selection of haute date-night-approved dresses and stylish, yet sexy separates available on the boutique now, women can get dressed for V-day in ensembles they not only like but fall head over heels for.

Styles from designers like ABS Allen Schwartz, BB Dakota, Carmakoma, Harlow, Anna Scholz and many more you’ll find on their site. Hey, even if you are “with yourself” (I hate hearing women saying they are “alone”) on Valentine’s day, grab one of these dresses, doll yourself up and party like the Queen you are!!

Special Kimpton Hotel Package for Fla Residents…Just drive over

Oh my Florida Couples, have I a real deal for you. Leave the parking to Kimpton’s distinct hotels and save at their Florida properties with their latest savings packages.  Now through Sept. 30, Florida residents can enjoy a summer solstice “staycation” Park and Play Package with savings of up to 20 percent and complimentary valet parking for guests staying at  EPIC Hotel in downtown Miami; Surfcomber Miami, South Beach; and  Vero Beach Hotel & Spa. For residents looking to save at the pump, The Angler’s Miami, South Beach is offering a $20 gas card plus up to 25 percent off in savings with their customized Drive + Play Package. 

IF you’re looking for a quick getaway that will get them the VIP treatment without the matching price tag can consider any of the four Kimpton hotels a home away from home with world-class services that range from kicking off the morning with coffee or tea service, to toasts during the nightly hosted wine hour to venturing around town with Kimpton’s branded bikes–all free services for guests.  Guests looking to get refreshed should check with the front desk about the hotels’ equally refreshing non-alcoholic, complimentary beverages which are available throughout the summer.

With four distinct experiences, guests have a choice between basking in the summer sun at EPIC’s sky-high pool deck looming above the Magic City; Surfcomber’s iconic pool deck and South Beach scene; Vero’s family-style pool and beach retreat and The Angler’s European sense of charm nestled within South Beach’s top entertainment centers. There’s no better way to making summer, a time of rest, relaxation, vacation and absolute fun.

EPIC Hotel, rates starting at $299 – Living up to its name, EPIC is a classic contemporary luxury waterfront hotel at the heart of downtown Miami.  Offering 20 percent off and complimentary parking under the Park and Play Package, the hotel’s guests will indulge in exclusive amenities that include spectacular skyline views from roof-top pool deck; top-rated restaurants, including Area 31; a full menu of head-to-toe spa therapies and 24-hour access to the  state of the art fitness center.  Recognized by Condé Nast Traveler magazine as a World’s Best Places to Stay and Gold List 2012, EPIC is at the EPICenter for excellence in luxury accommodation and the glorious rush of downtown Miami.

Surfcomber Miami, South Beach, rates starting at $239 –Surfcomber is conveniently located in the heart of the Art Deco District in South Beach on historic Collins Avenue offering a one-of-a-kind “daylife” experience through its direct beach access. This fully renovated hotel is providing guests who book the Park and Play Package from Sunday through Wednesday night stays with 20 percent off and Thursday through Saturday night stays with 10 percent off. As the gateway to South Beach’s world-class shopping and equally revered nightlife, Surfcomber allows guests to experience South Beach like a true local at any hour of the day or night.

Vero Beach Hotel & Spa, rates starting at $159 – For Floridians looking for a relaxing and intimate retreat in Central Florida, Vero Beach Hotel & Spa is a luxury oceanfront hotel located on Treasure Coast offering high-end amenities with unobstructed, breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Booking the Park and Play Package guarantees 20 percent off and complimentary parking at the property.  Other amenities include 24-hour fitness center; golf privileges at private clubs; a full-service onsite spa, a private beach and two onsite dining options with spectacular views.

The Angler’s Miami, South Beach, rates starting at $259 – This South Beach centric hotel features 48 guestrooms and suites, restaurant 660, executive boardroom, pool and seven spacious spa suites. Florida residents looking to save on their stay and gas can book the Drive + Play Package for savings of up to 25 percent plus a $20 gas card, an Angler’s branded beach ball and a beach mesh bag for beach essentials. The Angler’s is located just steps away from some of the greatest beaches in South Beach, the Art Deco historic architecture, and other entertainment centers.

To book any of the packages offered, call 1-800-546-7866 or visit the hotel’s individual website and request the FSR rate. Blackout dates apply. Guests must present valid Florida State ID upon arrival.  To stay up-to-date on the latest news and travel deals, become a fan of the EPIC, Surfcomber, Vero, and Angler’s Facebook pages, or follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest @KimptonInFL.

 

 

ARE YOU SINFUL OR SWEET? Kimpton’s Surfcomer Miami wants to know

OK, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Honestly, it just seems like we were just at the Christmas Holiday. Time waits for no one and that’s the truth!!  With all the craziness of the beginning of the year, Kimpton’s Surfcomber Miami, South Beach is offering couples a passion-filled escape full of fun, fraternizing and flirtation. Whatever the mood, Surfcomber’s got it covered with its ‘Sinful or Sweet’ stay packages designed for duos with desires for a sexy getaway.  Ladies…I think this would be a great surprise weekend away for your guy!  After all…you know he’s going to get you something. 

A romantic tryst waits, with playful offerings that are sure to spice up anyone’s love life. For couples seeking a walk on the wild side, the sultry Sinful Stay offer will knock your socks off. This sinful package includes:

• Sex-on-the-Beach welcome cocktails for two
• Intimacy kit
• Tantalizing toys, including a blindfold and tickle feather
• Complimentary late check-out

Meanwhile, sweethearts can also make sparks fly with the more subdued though equally passionate Romantically Sweet package, which includes the following sweet amenities:

• Bottle of champagne
• Chocolate covered strawberries
• Candles
• Complimentary late check-out

Located in the heart of the Art Deco District on historic Collins Avenue, Kimpton’s Surfcomber, Miami South Beach continues to bring a sense of playfulness and whimsy to South Beach offering guests the perfect trilogy of sun, sand and surf. With direct beach access, this fully renovated hotel offers visitors a one-of-a-kind “daylife” experience with its iconic, sun-drenched pool deck providing guests with the most hours of sun than any other hotel in the area as well as 30 private cabanas, a pool bar, and varied beach and poolside activities.
And once the sun sets, Surfcomber offers one of the most fun and popular hot spots to enjoy cocktails or dinner before the South Beach scene starts to crank up, at its newly renovated and buzzing lobby lounge, The Social Club.

With rates starting at $429, Surfcomber’s ‘Sinful or Sweet’ packages are available for booking and travel now through December 31, 2014. Restrictions and blackout dates may apply. For more information on Surfcomber and/or reservations, please call (800) 994-6103 or visit www.surfcomber.com. Use the booking code SINF for the Sinful Stay package and SWEET for the Romantically Sweet package.

Holiday Shopping in Brooklyn (NY that is)

Yesterday we explored the holiday shops in Manhattan. Today we’re taking a walk over the bridge to Brooklyn and enjoying all they have to offer.  Recently Brooklyn has become the hot neighborhood (well, this Brooklyn Girl always knew it was the best, but I digress…) and now many more people will realize it too.

 

These markets are highly etsy but there are some amazing artisans and craftspeople in these markets.   You’ll find something for everyone on your holiday or wedding list.  While you’re there, check out some of the neighboring restaurants. After all, more than a tree grows here.

 

Brooklyn 

 

RENEGADE CRAFT FAIR
Nov. 23 and 24, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
1 Hanson Place, Brooklyn

 

The Renegade Craft Fair will surely take your craft browsing experience to a new level with their free photo booth, free music and workshops to make the fair feel more like a party. You can learn and purchase organic soaps, kids clothes, leather items, letterpress cards, earrings, and a lot more.  They have over 200 vendors, so you won’t leave empty handed.

 

WILLIAMSBURG WINTER MARKET
80 N. 5th Street
Nov.30 – March, Sat. and Sun. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

 

While I’m sad they moved this from their location in Ft. Green (my neighborhood) The Brooklyn Flea’s new location means it is much larger, meaning more vendors, and more options.  Even if you don’t go, they have some of the best foot around.  Called the Smorgasburg, there will be 75 food booths alongside the 125 gift vendors. They will have packaged food and gifting items (I saw some this weekend and OMG!!). Bring lots of money because there will be lots of options. They will have an ATM just in case.

 

CRAFTED AT THE CANAL 
69 9th Street, Brooklyn
Dec. 7, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Dec. 8, 10 a.m. to 5p.m.

 

Free Beer??!?  Did someone say FREE??  According to the website, along with a slew of handmade gifts for sale, there will be free beer for all (of legal drinking age) Friday, thanks should go to Brooklyn Brewery and Brooklyn Home Brew. DJ WE CAN GOT IT will get the party started at the Friday kickoff as well. 

 

BROOKLYN HOLIDAY BAZAAR
501 Union Street, Brooklyn
Dec. 8, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

 

A collection of 30 artists with their handmade gifts, and workshops available.

 

ETSY HANDMADE CAVALCADE
The Space, 50 North 3rd Street, Brooklyn
Dec. 14 and 15, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. 

 

The fair has more than 40 Etsy New York vendors selling “goods ranging from handmade clothing, jewelry, accessories and paper goods to bath and body products, toys and housewares.  Best yet…the first 100 entrants get a goodie bag

 

Holiday shopping is in full swing

Cold yes…but it won’t keep shoppers away.  Today Manhattan…tomorrow…Brooklyn and hopefully before long, all your shopping will be done.

UNION SQUARE HOLIDAY MARKET
Union Square
Nov. 21 – Dec. 24
M-F, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The Union Square Holiday Market takes over the square in late November with more than 150 vendors, with a new “Little Brooklyn” section of the market featuring goods from my neighborhood. You have the flavor of Brooklyn, without having to take the trek.

BRYANT PARK WINTER VILLAGE
Bryant Park
Nov. 1 – Jan. 5
M-F, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The park is simply beautiful with treats to eat, and over 125 booths to shop (love the ones for pets). When you are tired of shopping, stop by Celsius for a bite to eat, cocktail and watch the skaters swoosh by.

GRAND CENTRAL HOLIDAY FAIR 
Vanderbilt Hall, Grand Central Terminal
Nov. 18 – Dec. 24
Mon. – Sat. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

They open early and stay open late. As the location that proudly says they receive over 1 million visitors a day, their 76 booths should get lots of attention. You should also check out any of the other shops that grace Grand Central Terminal for their holiday sales (and perhaps, not as crowded).

HOLIDAY MARKET AT COLUMBUS CIRCLE 
Columbus Circle
Dec. 3 to Dec. 24
Mon. – Sat, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m, Sun. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

This outdoor gift and food market for the last few  years been an amazing place for ‘home-made’ etsy-type gifts. I love the Honey that comes directly from Vermont. This is always a great stop and the people are extremely reasonably priced and friendly. Stop by and say Hi to them…and the hot chocolate – yummy!

DEGENERATE CRAFT FAIR
DCTV Firehouse, 87 Lafayette Street
Dec. 14, 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Dec. 15, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Arts vs Craft that is the answer. From find paintings and jewelry to hand knitted scarfs and cookies no matter where you turn there is something wonderful to see or purchase.  At the opening night reception from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. there will be music and free beer. The next day the first 50 guests get a free tote full of goodies. I see a line forming right now.

CRAFTS AT THE CATHEDRAL
1047 Amsterdam Avenue
Dec. 6 -8, $6 weekdays, $7 weekends

Don’t be fooled by the word “Crafts”. At the Cathedral, there are high-end leather, glass and jewelry.  They offer a market where everything is hand-made, one of a kind, and made by North American artisans.

Hotel El Convento Puerto Rico old-world charm and elegance

In the heart of Old San Juan is a Spanish Colonial architectural delight, Hotel El Convento.  With six elegant salons, which can hold everything from intimate dinners to elaborate receptions, your guests will experience flawless service and celebrate with you an event that brings something ‘old’ and something ‘new’ for your wedding day.

Inaugurated in 1651, the Carmelite Convent was created to withstand Indians, European enemies, hurricanes and tropical heat. Doors and grilles were made of mahogany and iron wood which seems to increase it’s strength as it ages. For 252 years this building housed nuns and then it was abandoned.  In 1959 Frederic Woolworth (yes heir to the Woolworths fortune) purchased the convent from the Archdiocese for $250,000 and transformed it into its present deluxe hotel.  There are now 100 rooms including 10 suites.

A lot of the original artwork, wrought-iron fixtures and decorative tiles remain today.  The first two floors are now designed and feature restaurants and cafes, meeting and banquet rooms.  This is the only small luxury and four diamond hotel in the heart of old San Juan.

So why get married here?  One of the most monumental buildings is the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, located across the street from Hotel El Convento, whose Spanish architecture invites you without having to be a believer. The stained glass windows, statues and especially its high ceilings, domes covering it possible not only transported to the era of conquests but to other parts of Europe.  Many celebrities have chosen the Cathedral for their wedding and then walk across the street back to the hotel for their reception.

Hotel El Convento 100 Cristo Street, Old San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901 Telephone: 787-723-9020  Toll Free: 800-468-2779 Telfax: 787-721-2877

Paris Fashion Week: Christian Dior couture Fall 2013

Redken Creative Consultant Guido created a slick chignon for the Fall 2013 Christian Dior show. The hairstyle had a hint of1950’s, but the wet-looking finish took it from mod to modern, helping to define the more refined looks we’ve been seeing from Christian Dior with Raf Simons now at the helm.

“We’re seeing a lot of shine in looks this season – dry super-matte hair feels a bit flat to me, and shine helps breath life into a look. This chignon is tough, slick and powerful – the Redken control addict 28 hairspray used today is very high hold for a fairly hard finish, and the look is overall very elegant. The texture is what adds an element to an otherwise very uptown look – the glossy shine here makes it look like she was caught in the rain, or out all night, and adds a sexy, even slightly melancholy element. It is certainly a little bit of a 1950’s look I suppose, but that’s not really my inspiration- it’s more about doing what’s right for Raf and what’s right for this collection.”

-Guido, Redken Creative Consultant

Create the look:

1. Apply guts 10 root targeted volume spray foam to damp hair section by section from roots to end.

2.  Partially blow-dry only the front section of the hair, pulling up from the roots with your fingers as you dry to give the style height at the crown. Leave the lengths of the hair damp and continue to style.

3. Using your fingers, part hair slightly off-center with your fingers.

4. Take the top section of the hair that you blow-dried and clip off to the side.

5. Gather the rest of the hair into a high ponytail, secure with an elastic, and then twist into small chignon, pinning flat to the head as you twist.

6. Unclip the front section and separate into two on the left and right side of the part. Pull the left section back into the chignon wrapping it around and pinning as you go. Repeat with the right-side section.

7. Spray entire style with a generous amount of forceful 23

super strength finishing spray.