Amy's Backstage Blog
Hi! I'm Amy Scalia, co-host here at Star64! I'm starting a new blog for the station's website, and I couldn't be more excited about it!
I love to write… it's in my blood… my grandma was actually one of the first female newspaper reporters in Ohio! After falling in love with writing as a Harrison High School student, I went to Miami of Ohio on an English scholarship. I got a BA degree in Mass Communications with a specialty in electronic journalism.
When I'm not hosting for Star64, I'm running an online women's publication in town called Cincy Chic. I started it about five years ago, and it now has more than 22,000 subscribers! Check it out at cincychic.com.
I also love to run (I've run three marathons!), cook, garden, make jewelry and crafts, shop for shoes (it's an addiction), and play with my Vizsla "Dino." So, here on the blog, I plan to post a variety of useful info that'll range from yummy recipes and gardening tips, crafting ideas and inspirations, as well as fashion trends, sales and events going on you'll want to know about.
So, bookmark this page and check back often! I'll be posting at least once or twice a week!
Flying Pig Marathon Summer Warehouse Sale!
06/17/13
As I look through my closet and drawers, I have noticed all of my souvenirs from my favorite marathon, The Flying Pig, are worn and torn! After running the marathon 3 times already, the t-shirts and apparel I have collected have seen better days and I am in desperate need of some new ones! Luckily, I don't have to run another 26.2 miles to get cool, comfortable, vintage flying pig apparel! On June 22, from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., The Flying Pig Marathon Merchandise Warehouse will host a huge sale! There will be a variety of unprinted ASICS gear, apparel, accessories, race commemoratives, and much more up to 75% off!
Custom finisher shirts from all 2013 Flying Pig Marathon events will also be available! I will definitely be at the sale to get some new goodies and hope to see you there! The warehouse is located in Northside at 4136 Colerain Ave. Cincinnati OH, 45223.
Attachments:
;)
;)
Shop, Sip'n Stroll in Hyde Park Square!
06/11/13
My birthday necklace from Cockerill (click to enlarge)
My faaaaavorite shopping district in Cincinnati is Hyde Park Square, and they're hosting a special shopping event this Thursday called Shop, Sip'n Stroll. It sounds like such a fun event, and the perfect excuse to shop local for all those dads and grads you need to still get gifts for! (Oh, ok, and maybe pick up a few things for yourself! haha!) Plus, they'll have live music provided by DJ Toad as well as drinks and treats in all the cute shops.
The merchants of Hyde Park will have extended store hours, and many of the stores will have limited sales for this event only. The discounts will be pretty impressive from what I hear (just wrote this blog about the Alligator Purse 40% off sale), Kate Boutique just got in a ton of new arrivals (click here to see pics of their new GLAM, C. Luce and Joes Jeans merchandise!), and click here to see some of the great gift ideas for dad at Nest on Michigan Ave.
Ooooh, and I just got a necklace (made by an artist in Paris, Sandrine Giraud) for my birthday on Monday from Cockerill, which is also on Hyde Park Square. I saw it weeks ago while out shopping with my husband. He remembered it, went back and got it for my birthday! I love it! They still have several other pieces by this artist, so I encourage you to check them out for yourself! They're so unique!
The event is this Thursday, June 13, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.! See you there!
Attachments:
;)
11th Annual Doggie Dash, Dog Walk, and Family Fest!
06/03/13
June 8th will be filled with food, fun, and fitness for you and your furry, four-legged friend! SPCA will be hosting the 11th annual Doggie Dash, Dog Walk & Family Fest at their Sharonville Shelter Location. Bring your own pup or borrow one of theirs. The SPCA will help match a selection of their dogs with walkers before it begins! Music will be provided by Ooo-La-La and the Greasers! Rain or shine, the walk and dash will go on with registration beginning at 8:00 a.m., the walk starting at 9:30 a.m., and the family fest including vendor games, demonstrations, and more will begin at 10:30 a.m.!
This event provides an opportunity for people everywhere to help raise awareness and funds to help continue the important mission of finding forever homes for furry friends in our care. You can help contribute by making a donation to a team or individual taking place in the walk and dash. If you are unable to make it to the event, you can still take part and get pledges, sign up as a Hike at Home or Couch Potato!
Are you putting together a team for the Doggie Dash and have questions about the t-shirt contest? Click here for more information! Or Interested in being a vendor? Hundreds and hundreds of people and their pets will be joining us, so this is a great opportunity to represent your business or service! Click here to see how!
For more information, please call (513) 247-2036.SPCA Sharonville Shelter Address: 11900 Conrey Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45249.
"The staff and volunteers of SPCA Cincinnati strive to not only give the animals in their care the best in humane treatment, but to continuously offer and develop programs to support those who own and care for animals." If this is something you are passionate about and support, come out on June 8th and join in the fun with all of the animals and owners!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
The Kentucky Speedway Presents: Nascar Triple-header Weekend!
06/02/13
Start your engines, Cincinnati and head to the NASCAR Triple-header weekend at the Kentucky Speedway! From June 27th -29th, the Kentucky Speedway will be hosting an exhilarating, fun filled series of events including the UNOH 225, Feed the Children 300, and Quaker State 400!
I was lucky enough to get a sneak peak of the track and grounds during a visit this past Thursday and learned all about this exciting upcoming triple-header. I had so much fun (as you can tell from the pictures below) and encourage everyone to check it out!
Tickets are still available and can be reserved in the following ways:
- By phone at 888-652-RACE
- On the World Wide Web at www.kentuckyspeedway.com or tickets.com
- Tickets.com outlets including all Meijer stores
- Through the Kentucky Speedway ticket offices at 2216 Dixie Hwy., Ste. 200, in Ft. Mitchell, Ky., and Fan Center in Sparta, Ky.
Come be a part of the fun and excitement and cheer on the fearless drivers as they make their way across the finish line!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
7th Annual Ride Cincinnati!
05/31/13
Looking for an exhilarating, adventuresome day filled with family fun outside, away from the office? Then mark your calendars for June 9th, as you join Fusion Studio in support of the 7th Annual Ride Cincinnati to support Breast Cancer research! 100% of the proceeds will fund basic science research for breast cancer at the Barrett Center. For those who didn't know, I am actually a certified spin instructor and Fusion in Newport was the first place I ever took spinning and the first place I ever taught! I know for a fact this great team of athletes will be fantastic motivators to all those who choose to support this amazing cause!
This event welcomes cyclists of all ages and abilities and the best part is you can PICK YOUR DISTANCE! Free food will be awarded at the finish line and goodie bags will be provided to all those who join the Barrett Center Crusaders team by June 1st, so sign up quick! You are also encouraged to support your own special cause and prizes will be awarded to the top 3 fund-raisers!I hope everyone will "give it a spin" and show their support for this great cause!To register, click here!
Attachments:
;)
2013 Cincinnati Arthritis Walk Recap!
05/30/13
A huge, warm thanks goes to the 1,850 participants and 100 volunteers who helped to raise over $177,000 for programs, services and research for people with arthritis. The success from the 2013 Cincinnati Arthritis Walk brought much needed arthritis resources to the community.
Cincy Chic was proud to have a booth there in support of such an amazing, worth cause. I was able to represent Cincy Chic and participate in the walk and there could not have been a more beautiful day for it! Thanks to all for helping make a difference in the lives of people with arthritis!
Attachments:
;)
;)
Check Out Bellevue, Kentucky!
05/29/13
If you're looking for a cute shopping district, head across the river to Bellevue. There you'll find cafes, restaurants, boutiques and cute little shops - I even met with Bellevue's Marketing Director Jody Robinson for coffee this morning!
For more info on businesses that are moving in or expanding to new spaces or to see what's new in the area, check out their website.
They've also got a ton of great events going on this summer!
The first Friday in June will be an 80s themed ladies night following by a city-wide yard sale on Saturday.
In July you'll get to check out Christmas in July and join the scavenger hunt to find the Santa.
Then in August head venture across the river for a Taste of Bellevue. The third Saturday in August will be Dog Days, where adoption organizations, rescue groups and pet accessories will be on site and many of the shops in Bellevue are very pet-friendly with bowls and treats.
The third Saturday in September will include Art in the Park at Bellevue Beach Park. The event will be September 14 from 11 a.m.5 p.m. and at 7 they're hosting a concert featuring local musicians.
Attachments:
;)
A Bride's Mafia Has Moved!
05/29/13
A Bride's Mafia just moved to a brand new space in O'Bryonville - a more convenient location for people who are coming in from Northern Kentucky, downtown or the Eastside. The Mafia is a one stop shop for you to meet all of the best wedding vendors in the city all at once!
If you or someone you know has a wedding coming up call or stop in to schedule your complimentary consultation! You'll get to check out exclusive vendors and even check out their Battle of the Bands event coming up this summer!
Cincy Chic also covered them a couple of months ago to give you even more info on A Bride's Mafia.
Their new address is 1985 Madison Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45208 so make sure you check out where owner Nidhi Bedi let me sneak inside and get a peek! I even snapped some great pictures of the shop so you can see how amazing it looks!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
Last weekend, Cincy Chic put together two fun fashion shows for the Petopolis expo. The human models wore new Spring styles from Three French Hens and our fab four-legged friends featured in the show were outfitted by Pet Passions and Fashions!
I loved working with Pet Passions and Fashions because no matter what animal we were working with, I found something they looked absolutely adorable in! On Saturdays show, Cincy Chic readers pets were nominated and selected to get in the show, so we had some super cute little pups that day. Then, on Sunday, we used cats and dogs from the SPCA.
So, not only was it nice that Pet Passions and Fashions had accessories for all shapes and sizes of pets, but it was important that we had outfits that didnt make the animals uncomfortable or upset. We found great collars, bandanas, leashes and other accessories that both the animals and parents loved!
Thanks to Pet Passions and Fashions, Three French Hens, MTM Cincinnati (who provided models) and all my interns who helped make our Petopolis fashion shows a big success! Our next pet fashion show is THIS Saturday at WagsPark! Click here to learn more about it! Hope you can make it!
Little Black Dress Event May 31st!
05/17/13
Fashion and fine arts will collide on Friday, May 31, requesting the presence of you and your favorite little black dress! The proceeds benefit Summerfair Cincinnati scholarship and exhibition programs for local artists and arts organizations! The runway will be lined with black dresses from local boutiques, accessorized with as assortment of must-have accessories from Summerfair artists to make the looks unique and chic! Not only will the fashion show be fabulous- the swag bag will be too! This year, its a wine bottle tote filled with amazing P&G products!
This Third Annual Little Black Dress event will take place in Moonlight Gardens at Coney Island from 7-11 p.m. Well have fashion bloggers there searching for the best dressed to recognize (and give a BIG prize to), so come dressed to impress! So, dress up your favorite LBD, show your support for a great cause, see a great show, get a fab swag bag, and shop the Summerfair artists booths, grab a cocktail, and dance the night away to my talented co-star here at Star64, Storm Bennett, will be our guest DJ for the night!
One lucky RSVP who participates in our new exciting Walk with Audrey activity will take home a raffle basket, featured below, filled with lots of great gifts! All you have to do is shop for Audrey-inspired items from the featured vendors before the fashion show. How fun is that!?
For more details about this event, check out the Cincy Chic calendar and if you want to RSVP click here!
Attachments:
;)
;)
Attention Masters and Muts- A Night Out with Your Best Friend Awaits!
05/13/13
Primp your pups for a gourmet feast as they mingle with their neighboring 4-legged friends! Chef Michael's Food Truck for Dogs want quality time and meal time to collide this Thursday, March 16! The first 100 visitors will receive a delicious meal for the furry friend as well as a voucher for the owner to use at one of their favorite participating food trucks the same day of the event including Sugarsnap and C'eest Cheese!
This new communal dining trend will take place at Dogtown Cincinnati from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and no reservation is required!
So come out and spoil your pup by giving them a dining experience like any other!
Below is the address for Dogtown Cincinnati: 2519 Burnet Ave Cincinnati, OH 45219
FREE Women's Health Expo This Saturday!
05/13/13
As part of National Womens Health Week (May 12-18), me and my team at Cincy Chic are hosting our second annual Womens Health Expo at The Phoenix Saturday May 18 from 10am-3pm.
The free event offers attendees healthy treats, 10-minute massages, and shopping at various pop-up boutiques. In addition, the event will host various health screenings, including the St. Elizabeth Healthcare mammogram van, as well as health-enhancing seminars with local physicians. Every attendee will receive a complimentary swag bag and be entered to win a $500 Paolo Jewelers gift certificate (and you get an extra entry to win for each guest you bring!!)
Im honored to host this free, fun and informative event again this year! And its going to be better than ever! We have some great speakers, lots of new screenings, fun fitness demonstrations, interactive preparations of healthy snacks, plus an expo hall packed with vendors where attendees can learn about health-enhancing new products and services!
Click here to learn more and RSVP. The Phoenix is located at 812 Race Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Parking is available for $2 in the adjacent Garfield Garage on 9th Street. The St. Elizabeth Healthcare Mobile Mammography Van will be onsite at the expo. Those interested in scheduling a mammogram on the van the day of the event can call 859-655-740.
Sponsors include: St. Elizabeth Healthcare, PNC Bank, Mona Lisas Permanent Makeup, Cors & Bassett Attorneys at Law LLC, The Dermatology Laser and Vein Center of Cincinnati, Bob Ronckers Running Spot & New Balance, Cincinnati Fit Body Bootcamp, Living the Fit and Healthy Life, Health Plus Coach,Battle 4 Beauty, Miche Bags with Mindy Richards, Vein Clinics of America, A Village Gift Shop, Origami Owl with Heather Zimmerman, Healthier Choice Weight Care Program for Women, Karma Wellness Studio, Mary Kay by Britt Born, Compassionate Beginnings LLC, East Kemper Chiropractic and Spaaaah! for Medical Wellness, Everybodys Health, Bandi, Wing Eyecare, Debbie Pendl Wellness LLC,The Woodhouse Day Spas, Flip Flop Shops Cincinnati, LeValle Metabolic Institute, Merle Norman of Crestview Hills featuring Lisa Robin Jewelry, Core A Movement Studio, Moksha Yoga, beneFIT Studio Salon & Spa, Sebastian Rey, Re.You Studio, Perfectly Posh with Jennifer Baker, Airrosti Rehab Centers, Kind Healthy Snacks, Churchills Fine Teas, Core Power, Ultimate Healthy Body, Arbonne with Deana Miller, Rodan + Fields with Lauren Zumbahlen, Rose Gynecology LLC, Vonnetta McColgan with NeriumAD, Tri-State Family Dentistry, True Artists Studio
Little English Warehouse Sale This Weekend!
05/09/13
Want to dress your kids in super cute, unique, colorful, and classic looks all for under $39? Look no further! Little English, a smocked southern inspired childrens clothing line, is one of our favorite websites that offer an assortment of pieces for your little boy or girl (click here to read a story we wrote about Little English on Cincy Chic!)
Luckily for us, Little English will be hosting a Warehouse Sale in Cincinnati this upcoming weekend! These sweet, seersucker gingham styles and cool cotton pima playsuits are totally irresistible.
Little English will be showcasing their Spring inventory in the Hyde Park Plaza on Friday, May 10th from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and again on Saturday, May 11th from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.!
Make room in your schedule so you can get your hands on these adorable looks! Click here for more details about the Warehouse Sale!
Attachments:
;)
Feeling lucky? Well, if so, you should head downtown to Koop Diamond Cutters next weekend for their annual Grab-A-Gem Event. I havent been before (I just found out about it a few weeks ago) but Im definitely going to check it out this year. Basically, the concept is that they have a bunch of unmarked envelopes with gems in them. Its $25 to draw an envelope, and each draw is a winner! The Grand Prize is a Diamond, with a retail value of $8,400!
The event is on Friday, May 10th from 9am-6pm, and Saturday, May 11th from 9am-4pm. More details are on the graphic below!
Massage Envy Mother’s Day Specials!
04/30/13
Dont leave it to the last minute to spoil your mom this year! Go ahead and give Massage Envy a call and get her a massage! Three of the Tri-State locations (Kenwood, Hyde Park, Eastgate) are offering a great deals from now until Mothers Day! Check it out below!
Battle of the Wedding Bands!
04/22/13
Last month in our wedding issue feature on Cincy Chic, we gave you some insider information about the Battle of the Wedding Bands event going on Aug. 11. Well, my gal Nidhi Bedi whos in charge of it all just told me that the line-up has been posted to their website.
I just love this concept with all the newly-engaged couples, this is such a fun way to go to a great concert series, check out a variety of bands, and see which one would be perfect for your big day!
Bridal Show + Battle of the Bands + Meet A Brides Mafia + Mafia Galleries (over 20 different reception table set ups) + Taste of the Mafia (including 6 restaurants and 6 dessert shops) + Admission to Coney Island = One amazing day out!
Oh and enter in the code CINCYCHIC for 50% off the ticket price! Click here to learn all about it! See you there!
21c Museum Hotel makes 2013 Hot List!
04/22/13
21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati is the newest white hot location in the Tri-State. So hot, in fact, they were named to the Cond Nast Travelers prestigious Hot List!
That must mean Cincy Chic is pretty hot, too, because we selected this location for our May 3 Night in White event (click here to RSVP!) and we are featuring their new spa in this weeks issue (click here to read about Cincinnatis first hotel spa!!).
Steve Wilson, co-founder and CEO of 21c Museum Hotels, announced that the 8,000 square foot contemporary art museum, 156-room boutique hotel and Metropole restaurant is one of 154 properties from around the world made the list of Best New Hotels of 2013.
21c Museum Hotel was one of only 16 in the United States to make the list. The Hot List is published in the May 2013 issue of Cond Nast Traveler.
The hotel was designed by architect Deborah Berke who was also recognized as an industry tastemaker in the issue. Berke created the historic and contemporary space all while respecting the character of the once grand hotel. The hotel is also a space to show off the work of living artists.
Berke teamed up with executive architect Alan Weiskpf of Perfido Weiskopf Wagstaff + Goettel, a firm known for its historic preservation projects.
There are also 21c Museum Hotels in Louisville which opened in 2006 and Bentonville, Arkansas, which opened in February of this year.
To view the entire 2013 Hot List, visit the CN Traveler website.
"White Out" Cancer April 26!
04/21/13
If you're looking for a "warm up" white event to Cincy Chic's May 3 Night in White then I've got the thing for you!
"White Out Cancer" will be held April 26 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. on the 29th floor of the Great American Tower!
Indulge yourself in wine and food donated by Treasury Wine Estates and the Moerlein Lager House.
You'll also have the opportunity to bid in a silent auction for several items, enjoy an amazing 360-degree view- including a prime peek down into Great American Ballpark!
The event will benefit young professionals and guests are encouraged to wear white - even thought it's not quite Memorial Day - to help "white out" cancer!
Pre-sale tickets are available now for $35 each or $60 per couple! Click here to buy yours! Contact Abbey Sullivan at abbey.sullivan@cancer.org or 888-227-6446 ext. 4203!
Cincinnati Film Society!
04/21/13
The Cincinnati Film Society is re-launching this year and they have some amazing events coming up this week!
On Monday, CFS is part of a nationwide Earth Day screening event to promote Earth Day!
Then from Tuesday to Sunday, they'll be showing the new film Upstream Color at the Art Academy.
You'll also have the opportunity to check out local short films Tuesday through Friday before the feature presentation and on Saturday night the screening will be followed by a critics panel discussion and reception!
CFS works to encourage the appreciation of film and shows foreign, classic and other films and brings together film lovers to learn about and discuss films!
Visionaries & Voices annual fundraiser!
04/21/13
Visionaries & Voices, an organization supporting artists with disabilities, is having its annual fundraiser May 18!
The event, called Double Vision, is a fun event with a live art auction, cocktail party and Jonas Karp with Main Auction Galleries will be calling the auction!
To learn more about this great cause, click here!
Mommy Makeover Event May 4!
04/21/13
Mommies,
Mark your calendars for an upcoming Treehouse Kids & Lancome "Mommy Makeover Event" May 4 from 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.
Treehouse Baby and Kids Furniture Gallery will be offering all moms a complimentary mommy makeover!
A Lancome consultant will be in store and ready to make you look and feel beautiful. Plus, you'll also get to learn more about the latest beauty trends and make-up tricks!
Lancome Gift Baskets will be given away at the event and if you purchase $35 in Lancome products, you'll get a FREE gift valued at $135!
Call 513-671-7750 to reserve your spot or register in-person at Treehouse Kids Co., 35 Tri-County Parkway, Cincinnati!
Wine & Cheese Trunk Show at Cincinnati Foot Solutions this Thursday!
04/21/13
Cincinnati Foot Solutions (located in Deerfield Towne Center in Mason) will be hosting a Wine & Cheese Trunk Show for Earthies, the cute and comfortable heels sold in-store, this Thursday, April 25, from 4-8 p.m.
And I was just there for a Star64 shoot and got to see first-hand all of the great shoes they have in-store. All of their styles are perfect if youre on your feet all day but still want to wear stylish shoes, and their tag line is the best! Where style and comfort meet!
A representative from Earthies will be in the store to display samples of other styles the brand sells, too! You can purchase shoes from the stores inventory and even place a special order if you find a pair youve gotta have!
There are also going to be drawings for prizes including massages, restaurant gift certificates and more! Check out some of the cute kicks I found when I was there last week!
Medicine Bluff Studio Open House This Saturday!
04/16/13
Medicine Bluff Studio will be hosting its first open house this Saturday, April 20! The open house and gathering of artists will take place in suites 101 and 102 at 801 Evans St. in Cincinnati from 1-4p.m.
Visitors will have the opportunity to meet artists and view their newest work! You'll also be able to tour Medicine Bluff Studio and see how they handcraft their tiles and wall art!
Featured artists include designer, sculptor and owner of Medicine Bluff Studio, John Beasley, internationally awarded Japanese artists Setsuko Lacroix, Sculptor Terri Kern, Vice President and signature member of the Cincinnati Art Club Ray Burt, sculptor Sam Hitchman and Core Clay artists in residence Jessie Rienerth.
There will also be a mega sale on second quality and over-runs during the open house!
Attachments:
;)
Special Earth Day Discount from Tulong!
04/16/13
Happy Earth Day, my eco-fab friends! And what better way to celebrate than with a decadent discount from our friends at lur apparel.
In March, lur apparel and Tulong sponsored Cincy Chic's Eco-Fab fashion show and now the eco-friendly apparel is offering a great discount in celebration of Earth Day!
Now through April 28, you can get 10% off your purchase and free shipping for your entire online order!
Visit repairtheworldnow.com to look through eco-friendly apparel for men, women and children. If you find something you like, use the code EarthDayRTW41528 to get your discount and shipping savings!
The soft, comfortable, eco-friendly clothing for men, women and children is great for everyone and encourages everyone to wear environmentally friendly apparel!
You should also keep an eye out for a special Mother's Day discount on lur apparel products " the company's women's fashion brand!
To apply discount code:
Click View Cart, at the top and Proceed to Checkout
New users are asked to sign-up for a new account
Once you're logged in, enter the code next to Coupon Code and continue checking out
Free Pie Wednesday Starts Tomorrow!
04/16/13
The famous food chain, O'Charley's, selected the Cincinnati area to take part in "Free Pie Wednesdays"
This means that anyone purchasing ANY entree will get a free slice of any pie - starting TOMORROW!
You can choose from flavors like Country Apple Pie, Double-Crust Peach Pie, French Silk Pie, Southern Pecan Pie and the ever so popular Ooey-Gooey Caramel Pie!
Participating restaurants in the Cincinnati area include Cincinnati, West Chester, Springdale, Milford, Franklin, Cold Spring, Harrison and Florence!
These restaurants are the first in the country to take part in this tasty, new campaign and is a great opportunity to get out and reward yourself with a mid-week special!
Visit the O'Charley's website or Facebook Page to learn more!
Designer Eyewear Trunk Show Today!
04/15/13
In todays issue of Cincy Chic, our fashion guru lists statement sunglasses as one of her 10 must-have trends for Spring this year. And theres an event going on today where you can get in on this trend at a great price! Check out the invite below for all the deets!
Tuscany Spa Salon Bar Hop this Thursday!
04/14/13
Tuscany Spa Salon will be hosting a Spring Bar Hop to benefit Kenzie's Closet this Thursday!
From 6-8:30 p.m. you'll have the choice of 3 styling bars - sleek pony, beachy wave or blow dry!
There are a few tickets left for this amazing event so make sure you pick up your ticket to benefit this special cause!
Because it's almost prom season, Kenzie's Closet needs the most support when they're outfitting all the underprivileged girls who need a dress for the dance of their lives!
Call Tuscany at 513-489-8872 to resserve your spot!
Attachments:
;)
Get Ready for a Battle of the Wedding Bands!
04/10/13
Get ready for the battle you've been waiting for! Battle of the Wedding Bands will take place August 11 at The Moonlight Gardens!
This event is going to change everything! Bridal Show + Battle of the Bands + Meet The "Mafia" (Cincinnati's BEST wedding vendors) + Mafia Galleries (over 20 different reception table set ups) + Taste of the Mafia (including 6 restaurants and 6 dessert places) + Admission to Coney Island = One amazing day out!
You'll get to enjoy a night at Coney Island, preview more than 20 of the latest reception style set-ups, meeting and mingle with more than 50 of Cincinnati's BEST wedding vendors and hear your favorite bands play!
A Bride's Mafia is hosting one show you aren't going to want to miss!
The music will start at 3 and will be going until 8:45!
The amazing line-up for the night includes:
Paul Otten 3-3:45
Laika 4-4:45
The Company 5-5:45
Naked Karate Girls 6-6:45
Cover Model 7-7:45
Johnny Clueless 8-8:45
For more information on Battle of the Wedding Bands visit A Bride's Mafia's website or check out the invitation on Facebook!
When you purchase your tickets, be sure to enter CINCYCHIC at check out for 50% off! Click here to register and get tickets!
Attachments:
;)
Agricola Redesign Courses
04/08/13
I hope you enjoyed all that spring-like weather this weekend! It was soooo nice to feel that sun shining on my face for the first time in what feels like for-ev-er.
It got me in the mood to clean up my landscaping, prune everything back, mulch and I even got some fresh flowers to put around the house! That was one of the things I mentioned in this blog last month with my friend (and local interior design expert) Diane Agricola's tips on how to welcome spring into your home's decor.
I swear, between all the time I spend watching HGTV, on Pinterest looking at cool home decor ideas, and getting tips from Diane, I should just become a interior designer! (as if I needed any more jobs and hobbies! haha!)
But seriously, if you're considering being an interior designer, Diane actually does offer courses to certify you and teach you everything you need to know about the trade! Below are all the details about the courses that I copy/pasted from their website, in case you're interested in attending. More info here.
The Agricola Redesign Training Specialists (ARTS) programs are designed to promote and enhance the interior redesign and home staging industry through quality training for our students.
We currently offer a 3-Day Training Course, a 5-Day Training Course and a Color Confidence Class, held in our 1600 sq ft redesign firm in Glendale and taught by ARTS programs certified instructor and mentor, Diane Agricola.
Spring has officially sprung at Chez Scalia!!
Support Stop Traffick Fashion May 13!
04/07/13
Get out and support Stop Traffick Fashion May 13! This organization is hoping to bring a new film to Cincinnati called Girl Rising. Girl Rising is about the power of education to transform lives and the importance of investing in girls' education.
A portion of every ticket sold for Girl Rising will go to supporting girls' education programs, so when you purchase a ticket you'll be helping make a difference in the lives of some of the most vulnerable girls in the world!
This sounds like a great cause and an amazing reason to go and check out this new film!
The screening will take place May 13 at AMC Newport on the Levee at 7:30 p.m. You find find more information and watch at trailer on Stop Traffick Fashion's blog or visit the event's Facebook Page.
Check out Owl Be Sweatin' headbands!
03/28/13
Be on the look out for an amazing new business! Owl Be Sweatin' Headband Brand is a locally-owned small business offering athletic headbands for girls and women of all ages.
Owl Be Sweatin' headbands are adjustable for any head size and allows you to loosen it 'til your heart's content. The ability to adjust the bands also prevents you from getting those awful headband headaches.
For the entire month of April, Owl Be Sweatin' will be donating $1 to charity for every headband they sell thanks to the team joining focus with the non-profit organization Girls on the Run.
You can choose from more than 60 patterns with the Owl Be Sweatin' headbands developed by sister-in-laws K.C. and Mallory DeBra, Cincinnati natives. As former athletes, the ladies wanted to create a functional headband and created their own for their sand volleyball league. Soon, others started asking where they were getting the headbands and encouraged them to form Hoot and Holler Partnership in 2012.
Buy them as gifts or as a little treat for yourself as warmer weather makes it way in and you make your way out for afternoon jogs and workouts
These will be great for the GOTR 5k race on May 11!
Visit Owl Be Sweatin's Facebook or check out their Etsy Shop!
Attachments:
;)
Celebrate the 10 year anniversary of the Cincinnati Wing at the Cincinnati Art Museum!
03/28/13
The Cincinnati Art Museum will be celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Cincinnati Wing on May 17!
The art museum was one of the first in the nation to dedicate a permanent gallery space to a community's art history and The Cincinnati Wing: The Story of Art in the Queen City has been a hit since day one.
There are more than 400 pieces representing Cincinnati or Cincinnati-trained artists, art depicting Cincinnati or Cincinnatians or art commissioned for the city of Cincinnati in the 18,000 square foot gallery.
Some of the artists included in the wing are Frank Duveneck, John H. Twachtman, Edward Potthast, Lilly Martin spencer and decorative arts from Rookwood Pottery.
The Cincinnati Art Museum has the third largest collection of works by Cincinnati painter Robert Scott Duncanson.
The wonderful thing about Cincinnati is that great art was not just bought here, but was made here as well, said Art Museum Director Aaron Betsky. Starting in the middle of the 19th century, Cincinnati nourished generation after generation of painters, sculptors, furniture makers, silversmiths, and ceramicists whose work was of an international level, and it continues to do so today.
If you want to soak in the history and beauty of Cincinnati art, you'll definitely want to check this out on May 17!
Attachments:
;)
Junk in the Trunk July 21!
03/26/13
Mark your calendars for the July 21st Junk in the Trunk event by 915 Monmouth!
As spring cleaning comes on full-force, set aside some of your stuff to sell at Junk in the Trunk! It's amazing what you can find in the back of your closet or hidden away in storage.
If you're interested in buying items at the event, email brides@915monmouth.com with the items you want to add to your wedding and they'll get the hunt started for you!
If you plan on selling some of your things, look for the drop off date announcement in May with drop off dates beginning in late June! Items will have a small, flat entry fee that is paid when you drop off your items so you don't have anything to worry about the day of the event!
Items can be priced as a single item or as a group of items sold together. Each item will be need to be marked with your initials, item number and price. You can check the website for more information on the pricing process.
You can also download an inventory sheet if you're planning to sell any items. All you need to do is fill it out as a PDF and email it to 915 Monmouth or print it and drop it off with your contract!
This is definitely something you don't want to miss!
If you want to learn more, check out the 915 Monmouth website or sign up to receive their newsletter for the latest updates!
Attachments:
;)
;)
Check out the NEW Curate Boutique opening April 6!
03/26/13
My friend Courtney PeGan is opening a new boutique in Hyde Park called Curate Boutique!
The grand opening will be April 6 at 3433 Edwards Road in Cincinnati!
Curate creates distinct, hand-selected style collections - hence "curating!" - and enables you to let your beautiful and unique personal style shine!
This sounds like such a great new place to check out so make sure you're there on April 6 to check out Cincinnati's newest boutique!
If you want to learn more about Curate Boutique, check them out on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or Pinterest for sneak peeks at collections, boutique news and special discounts!
Attachments:
;)
Over at Cincy Chic, we've recently started doing some work with my friend Shane at True Artist Studio. He's been so kind as to do the video for all of our fashion shows so fans and followers online can feel like they were there! Shane also has a film fest that he's been working on and it's great for brides and brides-to-be! It's definitely a neat concept, so I recommend you check it out!
First, you should know more about True Artist Studio. The business is a full-service video production company specializing in storytelling through visuals, dramatic voiceovers and cinematic music. Shane and his team are a group of Filmmakers with real filmmaking experience.
They all hold degrees in film and video with real world experience in production. So they know how to tell a story. They aren't just wedding videographers, they also product commercials, music, videos, corporate videos, creative advertising, documentaries and have even worked on Hollywood films.
The group got into the wedding business in 2006 as a division of Michael Bambino Studios. Then, they were shooting strictly with Bambino photographers and after significant success and growth, they decided to branch out and start shooting a few weddings with other photography companies.
The growth and success helped them realize it was time to make the filmmaking department its own company, and it was then the journey of True Artists Studio began.
What makes this group different from other studios is that they're filmmakers posing as wedding videographers.
"Brides tell us time after time that our work is 'completely different' and 'tells an emotional but fun story,'" Shane says. "But the best one we've heard is 'all the other films we saw from other videographers all looked the same, I couldn't tell one company from another.'"
Shane says you can't compare True Artist Studio to another wedding videographer in town because what they do is so totally different.
Did you have a video made for your wedding? Then you should consider checking out The Cincinnati Wedding Film Festival. It's set up in a format similar to Sundance and is the first and only film festival that caters to weddings.
"Brides have the opportunity to see their big day on the big screen," Shane explains. "We take a handful of Cincinnati's top wedding films and cast an online voting poll."
If you're lucky enough to make the one of the top six films, your video will screen at the festival.
This year, the festival will be held at the Kenwood Theatre, across the street from the Kenwood Town Centre. Full concessions and a bar will be available for those who attend. You can purchase tickets on True Artist Studio's website for only $5.
You can currently check out this year's nominees and even place a vote of your own. Short clips from each nominated film will be posted and the film with the most online votes will win a special anniversary package!
You can learn more about the film festival by visiting www.cincinnatiweddingfilmfestival.com.
If you're a bride-to-be, fear not. The festival is an alternative bridal show for brides-to-be as well. You can gather some of your closest friends and sit back with popcorn and experience real wedding films on the big screen. This will be your opportunity to see how all the planning comes together, get some ideas and get inspired for your own wedding.
You should keep in mind that limited seating is available so get your tickets now because you don't want to miss out on this type of bridal experience.
Check out Shane's work for yourself - click here to view this Vimeo reel!
Attachments:
;)
See Glennon Melton April 4!
03/19/13
Mark your calendars for April 4! On April 4, Glennon Melton, founder of Momastery.com and author of Carry On, Warrior: thoughts on Life Unarmed, will be at Joseph-Beth Booksellers.
Melton's daily blog touches on parents, marriage, faith and the hardships of daily life and was founded in 2009. She started the blog as a safe haven for herself so she could "live out loud" and share her experiences with other women.
As she started to gain readers' attention, she wrote an essay titled "Don't Carpe Diem" in January 2012. The essay was about resisting the pressure parents feel to enjoy every little moment of parenthood and was eventually published on the Huffington Post.
Her much anticipated book is a memoir-in-essays and includes Melton's journey so far. The pre-orders for the book helped it climb to #4 on Amazon.
Melton will appear on the Today Show and an excerpt from the book will be featured in this month's issue of Ladies' Home Journal as well as other media coverage
This sounds like an amazing opportunity to meet an inspirational woman, see you there!
A Village Gift Shop Birthday Event, Fun Gift Ideas!
03/18/13
I just got an invite from one of my favorite clients, Agricola Redesign and A Village Gift Shop, about their upcoming birthday event on March 23. Click here to view the invite and event details! They've been in business for 12 years and they're celebrating in style with 20% off store-wide! Cincy Chic just held an event there in January and I found a TON of great gifts there - you have to check it out for yourself if you need to pick up anything from a home decor item, fab accessory, cute cards, or great gift for someone special. One of the best things about the gift shop is that they feature a ton of Made in America products, such as Maruca hand bags, Paper russells note cards, down to earth pottery Corksicles, and Lizou. So, definitely check out the shop, and clear your cal for their upcoming birthday event! See you then!
Attachments:
;)
;)
A Cupcake Affair with a Kenyan Flair this Saturday!
03/14/13
A Cincinnati-based non-profit working in rural Kenya will be hosting their 3rd annual "A Cupcake Affair with a Kenyan Flair!"
STOENI International's even will be this Saturday from 7-10 pm at the Peterloon Estate in Indian Hill!
You'll enjoy African music and authentic Kenyan cuisine while taking part in a silent auction for goods and services from Cincinnati and even Kenya!
Highlights for the evening include the cupcake sculpture contest featuring entries from local cupcakeries. Judging will be by Maestro John Morris Russell of the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Judge Nathaniel Jones, a civil rights proponent and Chef Megan Ketover of Orchid's at Palm Court and Bravo's Top Chef: Just Desserts!
This is a great cause because SOTENI International works to reduce the incident of HIV/AIDS and improve the lives of those affected by the disease!
The Peterloon Estate is located at 8605 Hopewell Road.
For more information about the event and to RSVP, visit SOTENI online, email or call 513-729-9932.
You can also follow SOTENI International on Facebook and Twitter to get news and updates!
Proceeds from the cupcake even will benefit SOTENI International's efforts to work side-by-side with international and Kenyan partners to design and carry out sustainable interventions and creating positive changes for those affected by HIV/AIDS in rural Kenya!
Lots of Bridal Events This Week!
03/06/13
Boy is it a big week for brides-to-be! This Thursday is the After Hours Bridal Show produced by my friend Nidhi Bedi at A Brides Mafia (details below). Then this Friday my right-hand-woman at Cincy Chic, Stephanie Zastawa, will be on Fox19 to do a sneak peek of our Brunch & Bling bridal fashion show at Richter & Phillips! THEN, next Monday will be our annual Bridal issue of Cincy Chic! Whew! Enjoy the busy week, you blushing brides and best wishes on your big day! 
Network of Executive Women hosting event this Friday!
03/05/13
Network of Executive Women hosting Cincinnati College Retail Experience Day this Friday and will be a great opportunity for women to get out and talk to successful professionals in the consumer packaged goods industry!
On March 8, the Cincinnati Chapter of the Network of Executive Women (NEW) will be hosting a college retail experience day!
The event will be hosted at the Kroger Market Place at 130 Pavilion Parkway in Newport, Kentucky on Friday from 9 a.m.- 12 p.m.
Female leaders from Pepsi, Brown Forman Kroger and more will meet with 15 students from the University of Cincinnati, Xavier University and Miami University to explain the careers available in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) as part of NEW's outreach to college women.
Those who participate will get a deeper look into the CPG industry and the careers available for them including roles in sales, marketing, buying, supply chain, finance, analysis and store management!
Students will break into groups for approximately 45 minutes from 11:15 a.m. to noon where they will get to go on a walk-through of the store and speak with NEW's guest speakers for an inside perspective. Both students and NEW speakers will be available for anyone else who may be interested in speaking with them.
NEW provides a college mentoring program to provide students with one on one support and guidance form a CPG executive and potentially receive job offers from companies including P&G and SC Johnson.
The Cincinnati Chapter of NEW is led by women working at P&G, Kroger, Brown Forman, Pepsi, dunnhumby and other CPG-related companies. The chapter is committed to attracting, retaining and advancing women in the retail and consumer products industry through education, leadership and business development!
Friday is also International Womens Day 2013! Corporations and countries from around the world will be holding special events to recognize the role of women! Visit the International Womens Day website or Facebook page to learn more!
Click here to visit the Cincinnati Chapter's Facebook page to learn more.
A Lot Like Love Photography
03/05/13
Several friends of mine got engaged over the holidays, and lots of my other friends are new mommies; such an exciting time in life!! Because of my work with Cincy Chic and here at Star64, they're all asking me if I know of any good photographers. Boy, do I! While most that I work with are more fashion-focused (or waaaay overpriced), there is one photog - Melissa Ball with A Lot Like Love Photography - who specializes in capturing great life moments and I just love her. She's been practicing portrait photography for 12 years and working independently for the last four.
To Mel, it's about offering clients an entirely new experience, where they can be comfortable, stress free and have fun. In fact, it's Mel's goal to offer something more than a few snaps of a camera, she helps the families enjoy the chaos of being together. "It's hard enough to pack up all of the children and guarantee they will make it to the studio in one piece clean and not a crying, dysfunctional mess," she explains.
Mel feels that her job is to capture memories in a way so that when families look back at the photos years later, they'll remember exactly how they felt in the moment the picture was taken. "In an essence I freeze time, I paint a picture of what life was like after all of the details and memories have faded and been forgotten," Mel says.
Mel is all about creating a fun atmosphere for her clients and making their experience more than memorable. She offers a laid-back session and enjoys using clients' surroundings, their homes and the items around their homes that mean the most to them.
She also specializes in on-location portrait photography using natural light and a casual lifestyle approach. "I'm a sneakers and jeans kind of girl," she says.
Her favorite types of portraits are the ones capturing the in between moments of tears, pouty lips, giggles and shy glances. She enjoys those moments even more while shooting in parks and other outdoor locations during the warmer months.
What I also love about her is that her clients become her friends and she's always receiving updates from moms about growing little ones taking their first steps and getting their first tooth.
She's also journeyed with couples- from the beginning of their journey together.
"I've been blessed to be able to watch couples be nervous during engagement sessions to saying their I Dos. I've received calls shortly after weddings, excited to tell me they're now expecting and I'll soon be capturing portraits of Mom-to-Be's growing belly," Mel says.
Getting close to each of her clients is one of Mel's main priorities. "I want to know the names of my clients, their spouses and children," she says. "What they love to do, what annoys them, what makes them laugh. I receive sticky hugs from little hands and I always tell clients they can expect their little ones to leave dirty. I love what I do and what I can offer."
She's learned not to take life so serious, because life's too serious to be so serious. "We have tears, we have scraped knees, we have realized that life is perfectly imperfect," she says.
And don't worry if you don't have a special event or occasion coming up, Mel says some times just capturing the little things you'll soon forget is the perfect excuse for a shoot. "Photographs are there to remind us of what we forget. They're also there to remind us of how awful we used to dress, our horrible haircuts and our ugly kid stages. But those are all just added bonuses," she adds.
Visit A Lot Like Loves Facebook page to learn more about her and see some of her amazing photography! I highly recommend her!
The Maribelle Cakery!
02/26/13
You might notice that Storm and I do a lot of eating on our Star64 at the Movies segments, so I've become quite the culinary connoisseur. And I have to tell you, one of my FAVORITE places for sweets in Cincinnati is Maribelle Cakery. For the past 24 years, Maribelle Cakery has earned a reputation for creating stunning centerpieces of beauty and exceptional taste for wedding receptions throughout Ohio and Kentucky.
The cakes at Maribelle are unique to the Cakery and can't be found anywhere else in Cincinnati! As a stop vendor for wedding cakes, this business has grown over the years and now offers much more than just cakes to the public and restaurants in the area. New products from Maribelle's include special occasion party cakes, scones, muffins, cookie bars, Italian cheese cake, cannoli's, special decorated cookies, brownies, pies, fruit tarts and moist cupcakes. If you're needing something special, requested items can also be made.
Fresh isn't an issue at Maribelle since products are gourmet and full of flavors. Only the freshest and finest ingredients are used, including fresh strawberries and raspberries, Belgian chocolate, fresh farm eggs, Oregon red raspberry preserves, Wisconsin premium whole butter and heavy cream.
Recipes from the store located on Cheviot Avenue are their own and Maribelle has won a number of awards for their amazing cakes. They won the 2013 Best of the Knot for Wedding Cakes, a national wedding magazine and website and were also asked to be a part of the invitation only Style me Pretty, one of the best wedding blogs for brides.
Look out for big things happening for Maribelle Cakery in 2013! The Cakery will be opening a school in Sugar Arts. The school will teach individuals ranging from beginner to professional in the art of decorating. Maribelle's owner, Angela, has worked with Collette Peters and Nickolas Lodge, some of the best Sugar Artists in the business.
The school will be teaching basic buttercream all the way up to advanced fondant and sugar flowers. Because there isn't another school like this in Ohio, culinary students can turn to Maribelle's Sugar Arts for that extra training in decorating to help them land a great job! Classes will range from one to two days classes and more advanced one to two week classes. Maribelle hopes to offer accredited courses as the school grows.
To learn more about Maribelle Cakery, visit their website or Facebook page!
Eco Fab Fashion Show March 15th!
02/21/13
Over at Cincy Chic, we'll be having our 2013 Eco Fab Fashion Show on March 15.
The event will be from 6-9 p.m at PNC Bank on E. 4th St.
Complimentary light bites by Crave and drinks will be served. Lots of shopping will also be done and the first 200 attendees to arrive will get a swag bag!
The fashion show will start at 7:30 and will feature sustainable designs by lur apparel and eco-friendly hair and makeup styling by Cincy Style Bar!
Fundraising activities for the Civic Garden Center will be available during the event as well as an "Eco-Fab" workshop area where attendees can turn their old t-shirts into no-sew infinity scarves!
The event is free to attend so click here to get your free ticket!
Attachments:
;)
After Hours Bridal Show March 7th!
02/21/13
The After Hours Bridal Show, presented by A Brides Mafia, will be held on March 7th from 6-9 p.m at Great American Ballpark!
This event is going to be much better than any wedding event or expo youve ever been to. Im not much of a wedding expo person, but this kind of event is right up my alley. Its like going to a happy hour and you meet a bunch of fun new people who all happen to be in the wedding industry.
I highly recommend this event- its definitely THE place to meet your future wedding vendors.
Cincy Chic is also a media sponsor for the event and its been exciting to see A Brides Mafia grow each year. This year, the show will feature 65 exclusive venders and
Attachments:
;)
Cincinnati Gorilla Run March 24!
02/21/13
The 2nd annual Cincinnati Gorilla Run will be held March 24th! The Gorilla Glue Company is hosting the run to raise funds for the Mountain Gorilla Conservation Fund (MGCF), an international charity working in central Africa for the protection of the endangered mountain gorilla.
Events will include a 5k and kids 1k fun run, walk and ride around Cincinnati. Everyone who registers will get a full gorilla suit to keep! Since efforts to save the mountain gorilla began, MGCF has helped reach a 12% increase in the gorilla's population growth.
The start and finish lines for the race will be at the Montgomery Inn Boathouse and the schedule of events for the day include:
9:00 AM Registration Opens
10:15AM 1k Little Gorilla Start
10:30 AM Gorilla Glues Most Creative Gorilla Costume Contest
11:00 AM Start of Race
11:15AM Live Band starts
12:30 PM Silverback Block Party
The Silverback Block Park includes lunch from the Montgomery Inn Boathouse and Honey Baked Ham, live music, beer garden, awards ceremony and other family activities!
Cost:
$99.95 Adult (gorilla suit & block party ticket included)
$50.00 Returning Adult gorilla
$45.00 Kids 1K or 5K (gorilla suit & block party ticket included)
$15 Kids 1K (no gorilla suit, but other costumes encouraged)
Visit the race's website to learn more or register for the race!
UFC fighter Colton Smith is visiting Oakley!
02/21/13
Ultimate Fighter season 16 champ Colton Smith will be visit my friend's restaurant, Great Scott! in Oakley February 28! He'll be at the restaurant from 7-9 p.m. signing t-shirts and photos.
During his visit, he'll be doing a grappling seminar and participating in a match at the Arnold Classic in Columbus!
Great Scott! will be offering drink specials during Smith's visit, so be sure to stop out and pick up a new shirt or even an autograph!
The proceeds from the shirts will go to a wounded soldier charity!
Attachments:
;)
Krombholz Jewelry Sale!
02/19/13
Krombholz Jewelers is having a jewelry sample sale! Its one of the most talked about jewelry event in Cincinnati. Why? Because all their vendors sell the sample items from what they used that year/season to exhibit to buyers and at shows, and then they come to Krombholzs annual sample sale to liquidate their inventory at amazing discounts (20-75% off!)
The event is only 3 days, February 28-March 2, so make sure you get out there and check it out! Hours for the event include:
February 28- 10am-6pm
March 1- 10am-7pm
March 2- 10am-4pm
Krombholz is located at 9399 Shelly Lane in Cincinnati. Visit KrombholzJewelers.com for more info!
Attachments:
;)
Sale for Last Minute Valentine’s Day Gifts
02/13/13
I remember my grandma had a cross-stitch of a clock set at 11:59 hanging on her wall that said If it wasnt for the last minute, nothing would get done in this house. So, I guess being last minute runs in the family. Buying Valentines Day gifts is no exception for me, which is why I was sooo excited to see that one of my favorite local stores, Jewels by Jules, is doing a sale specifically for last minute gift-buyers. See below for details on the sale. I will also note that this store is great for if youre buying for men or women. This is actually where I bought all my staffers their holiday party gifts. They have some amazing mens watches, and of course a ton of stuff for women! (diamonds ARE a girls best friend after all! haha!) Happy Shopping!
Free Donuts on Valentine's Day!
02/11/13
Be sure to claim your free donut on Valentine's Day! This Thursday, every Busken Baker, Remke-Biggs and Cincinnati/Dayton United Dairy Famers will give away a free Lite Hearted Donut to every customer while supplies last!
Lite Hearted Donuts are heart-shaped glazed donut targeted to claire-counting consumers. Each donut has just 140 calories, 2.5 grams of fat, zero trans fat and zero saturated fat. What a perfect way to indulge in sweets without the calories!
To learn more and keep up to date on the news, follow the Busken Bakery Facebook page!
Fabulous-Furs Warehouse Sale…Up to 70% OFF!
02/11/13
This is seriously my FAVORITE sale of the year. Donna Salyers Fabulous-Furs in Covington holds their Warehouse Sale on faux fur clothing, coats, shoes and accessories, after the main fur-buying time of the year has concluded so they can liquidate merchandise. And what better way to liquidate than to offer things at 70% off! Last year, I got shoes for $9, tops for $12, fur vests for $25. It was insane. HIGHLY recommend you check out this sale!!
Bridal Show February 20!
02/10/13
Attention soon-to-be brides! Mark your calendars for February 20! From 6-9 pm Yellow Canary will be hosting an open housing for brides to experience a new kind of bridal show.
Interact with vendors for a fun and relaxing night of wedding planning. Check out the newest ideas and trends for weddings while brainstorming with awesome vendors!
Admission to the event is free and will feature an amazing list of vendors including Yellow Canary, Cupcake Crazy, Paint by the Glass, Creative Invites and Events, Letter B Designs, Pottinger Photo, Cafe de Wheels and OliviaMarc.
Yellow Canary is located at 3176 Madison Road in Oakley.
Thanks to my assistant editor Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Laugh Today, Cure Tomorrow February 19!
02/08/13
A comedy show to benefit Drew and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation will be held on February 19!
The event is called Laugh Today, Cure Tomorrow and features a comedy show at the Go Bananas Comedy Club. Last year, my co-host Storm and myself were honorees for this amazing event!
My friend, Steve, is one of the featured comedians along with Geoff Tate.
Doors open at 7pm and the show starts at 8! Tickets are $15 and will go towards a great cause! This sound like such a fun event! Hope to see you there!
Seasons 52 Opens Today
02/05/13
I got the opportunity to check out the new Seasons 52 in Hyde Park. It's in the new development that's going up where all the houses used to be across the street from Rookwood Commons. To be honest, I wasn't ready to be wowed at the Media Night I was invited to. I knew they were owned by the same people as Red Lobster, Olive Garden, Longhorn Steakhouse, etc. I thought this was just going to be another franchise going through the motions of their billionth store opening. Not the case, my friends. I was pleasantly surprised when they had their head chef and master sommelier there who have been with the company for more than a decade each, working together to develop, and constantly improve, the menu. They explained the inspirations behind each dish, and even so far as some of the small farms and farmers they source their produce, cheese, etc from. It was fascinating. One of the other things I was really impressed with was that - as I've told you before here on the blog - my husband and I have decided to go gluten free. I was concerned that this was an issue, or I would have to skip some of the taste testing that was going on that evening. But I didn't miss out on anything - not even the goat cheese ravioli - as they had accommodations for everything. Plus the whole premise of their menu and restaurant concept is to serve healthy, whole food. Nothing on their menu (not even dessert) is more than 475 calories, and they don't use butter, grease or fryers in their cooking process. Everything is flavored with fresh spices and their open flame grill. I was really impressed. I definitely recommend checking them out - they officially open to the public today!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
Two Fun Events at Pizazz Studio!
02/04/13
Pizazz Studio in Loveland has two fun events coming up I wanted to let you know about! One is tomorrow (Tuesday Feb. 5) from 6:30-8pm and its their Valentine & Chocolate Martini event.
Cost: $40 per person, or bring a friend and both pay $35
Craft: Beaded Martini Glasses & Candlelight Valentine Gift
RSVP: 683-3333
Appetizers, Desserts, Signature Slushies & Chocolate Martinis will be served
They will personalize your glasses for you with whatever message/name/initials you would like the glasses to say, just let them know when you call to register! Pre-personalization must be called in (513-683-3333) today, Feb. 4!
Then, from Feb 7-10, Pizazz Studio is hosting their annual Valentine Trollbead Trunkshow, where you will be able to receive additional specials, including one free bead and what the owner Jan is calling the most awesome mystery gift ever with the purchase of $150! ooooh, the suspense is killing me! The only hint shes giving is that the mystery gift will actually consist of five gifts in one!
Click here to read Pizazzs most recent newsletter about these two events and more!
Dancing for the Stars, Massage Envy Review
02/04/13
I agreed to be one of the dancers in this years Dancing for the Stars which benefits the Cincinnati Arts Associations Overture Awards (click here to read the write-up about it on Cincinnati.com). I havent really danced since my high school cheerleader days ...or my Elaine from Seinfeld-esque dancing at weddings! haha! But its a great cause AND the perfect opportunity to get in great shape! Ive been going to dance lessons twice a week, and I promised myself to do cardio and weight lifting three times a week. Needless to say, Ive been waking up tired and achymuscles I didnt even know I had are super sore!
I decided that Id reward myself with a monthly massage if I kept up with the routine. I figured it would help with the aches and would also be motivation to keep up the workouts!
One of our new clients at Cincy Chic is Massage Envy, and the PR rep I work with there had just been emailing me about their new products and add-ons (for example, you can add-on aromatherapy, or upgrade to deep tissue). They are also based on a membership system, so you get a monthly massage (you can use them another month or give them away if you dont use them each month), and that brings down your per-massage price, which is perfect for my new monthly massage promise to myself!
So, I decided to try it out and book an hour massage with deep tissue upgrade and I also added on one of their Enzyme Acne facials. I had a few break-outs I needed to have calmed down before all our events this week! (we have three fashion shows this week, and I didnt want my breakouts to take away attention from my new shoes! haha!)
Let me just tell you, this was the most relaxing two hours of my life. My body felt like jelly afterward, and my face STILL feels like a babys bottom four days later! I got the massage first (Linda Kantor LMT was my massage therapist, by the way, she was awesome). She broke up all those knots, and eased all the tension I was holding in my poor sore muscles. I also got the aromatherapy Im such a sucker for ANYTHING lavender - which just sent me to la-la-land. So relaxing, but it wasnt just a froo-froo massage. I definitely more limber and felt less tense after the massage.
Then, after the massage I got my facial, which was perfect because they did everything in the same room and I didnt have to move one little pampered muscle! Missy Smith was my esthetician. She was amazing. Very knowledgeable about the products (I have really sensitive skin, so I was asking which product did what, and what was in each, if they reacted like previous products Ive had a reaction to, etc). They use Murad products which I had heard of before, but never used before. Now, its been several days since my facial and Ive been using some of the sample lotions they gave me, and Im definitely going back for more. I dont know if its because its winter and I just keep caking on lotions to keep my skin from flaking, but this facial felt like it sloughed off a bunch of junk and my pores are finally able to breathe. And the lotion is keeping my skin hydrated without it feeling weighed down, which is always good so I dont start that caking-on downward spiral again!
So, long story short, I wanted to let you know about my experience at Massage Envy (I went to the one in Kenwood right across from Nordstrom). I give the whole experience from the products to the people an A+ and will definitely be back again. And from the looks of the choreography my dance instructor just sent over, Im going to need it!
By the way, Dancing for the Stars tickets are available for patrons ($100), corporate tables ($1,000) and the front-row celebrity circle tables ($1,500) from the Aronoff Center ticket office Downtown, 513-977-4104, orwww.CincinnatiArts.org. I need lots of loud people in my cheering section!
Attention Brides-to-Be: Folchi’s Shopping, Makeover Event Feb. 26!
02/03/13
Get ready to celebrate the upcoming wedding season in style! Folchis is inviting you to a fun and informative event called Cupcakes & Cocktails!
On February 26, from 5-8 p.m., the adult only event is being held at 7344 Kenwood Road in Cincinnati.
Guests will get to view the latest collections for grooms and will get special discount offers during your visit! Personal stylists will also be on site to offer services in helping you find the perfect outfit for the grooms special day.
Mini makeovers by Jean Folchi Makeup Artistry will be available as the icing on your cupcake and to offer tips for looking dapper on your big day!
Featured vendors include Jean Folchi Makeup Artistry, Cupcake Crazy and Kim Claire Photography.
Space is limited to make sure you RSVP soon! Click here to save your spot!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Reserve your Valentine's Day dinner at Crave to WIN!
01/27/13
Crave is hosting a great Valentine's Day event! If you make a reservation for Valentine's Day weekend before February 8, you'll be entered to win a fabulous prize!
Prizes include a Philip Bortz necklace, bracelet or earrings and a voucher for a complimentary carriage ride by Carriage Occasions!
There will be three of these packages given away each day of Valentine's Weekend, so you have three chances to win! Winners must be present to win so make sure you're there!
Crave is located at 175 Joe Nuxhall Way Suite 125. Call them at 513-241-8600 to make a reservation today!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
Get Warm. Go South! Vacation Express Contest!
01/24/13
Looking for an escape to warmer weather? Vacation Express is calling all couples to Get Warm. Go South! for the Coldest Couple contest!
Visit www.getwarmgosouth.com to enter to win an all-inclusive vacation. Everything, including your flight from CVG, your food and hotel to Jamaica, Riveria Maya, Classic Cancun or Punta Cana!
The couple with the most humorous responses will be selected as the winners! The entries for the contest will be judged and announced at the Vacation Express Beach Club Pop Up Shop located at 1218 Vine St. on February 1st at 8:30 pm! Those who enter the contest must be present in order to win! Food and music will be provided the night of the announcement!
And if you don't win the all-inclusive trip you still have a chance to win two round trip tickets to your choice of Cancun, Punta Cana or Jamaica via the Street Level Billboard!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Free Couples Event this Tuesday!
01/18/13
This Tuesday, January 22, Gillette is inviting couples to stop by for a live kissing experiment! The event is being held at Fountain Square from 8:30am-2pm.
At the event, women will determine whether they prefer their men to have some facial stubble or a clean shaven face. Since research shows that people are kissing less than ever and with Valentine's Day just around the corner, Gillette wants to ask couples if the problem is all that stubble!
Couples participating in the event will kiss in person- with and without stubble- to uncover which kiss is the best kiss. So make sure you man shows up with some stubble!
There will be free Gillette prizes for the guys and Cover Girl lip gloss for the girls will be going to all couples that participate!
If you can't attend the event but would still like to conduct the experiment, participate online at www.kissandtellus.com. The results from the experiment will be announced on Valentine's Day!
Attachments:
;)
Shop Your Heart Out January 24!
01/13/13
Are you ready to shop for a great cause and learn everyday habits for a healthy heart at the same time? Then Shop Your Heart Out, in support of the Heart Ball by the American Heart Association Cincinnati is for you!
On January 24 from 5:30-8pm at Saks Fifth Avenue in Cincinnati, you'll have the opportunity to sip and sample healthy bites from The Kenwood Executive's Chef, Robert Giesman. There will also be a fashion show and complimentary beauty and skin care services to indulge in while shopping. To top off the event, Dr. Puvi Seshiah, a cardiologist with TriHealth Heart Institute will be there to help learn everyday habits for a happy heart!
Sakes Fifth Avenue is located at 105 W. Fifth Street. Tickets to the event are $30 per person and include complimentary valet parking on Race Street.
Check out the event's Facebook page here to learn more or RSVP to Sia Ruppert at 513-842-8862 or sia.ruppert@heart.org.
The American Heart Association, benefitting this event, will also be benefitting from Cincy Chic's Lady in Red event on February 9. To learn more about this, click here.
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
St. Patty's Day Craft Ideas!
01/12/13
Now that Christmas is over, and you start to pack away the tree... don't worry, there's another holiday right around the corner full of greenery: St. Patrick's Day!! And if you have kids, this is such a fun holiday! Or, even if you don't (like me) it's still super fun to indulge your inner Martha Stewart! haha! I found lots of great St. Patrick's Day food and craft ideas on Pinterest, and included a bunch of fun ideas here to get the wheels turning on how you can turn your home into a pot of crafty and foodie gold!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
Heart Shaped Food Ideas for Valentines Day!
01/10/13
I don't know about you, but the way to my hubby's heart is through his stomach! So, I found a bunch of fun heart-shaped food ideas for Valentine's Day! I love the heart-shaped raviolis! Some of the other ideas would be so fun to make with kids! Check them out below! Click here to see more!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
Mitchell’s Salon & Spa’s 30th Anniversary!
01/10/13
Thirty years ago today, Deborah Mitchell Schmidt opened a little salon and spa she affectionately named Mitchells Salon & Day Spa. Today, Schmidt owns five Mitchells Salons & Day Spas and two Pump Salons, which comprise the largest privately owned salon and day spa chain in Greater Cincinnati. Theyre not celebrating three decades in the biz alone, though all day today, you can stop by any of their five locations to enjoy light bites and enter to win several services (listed on the pic below). Theyre giving scratch off cards to everyone receiving a service today and each scratch off is a winner for one of the services up for grabs, so everyones a winner! Also, if youre celebrating your 30th birthday today (Jan. 10) too, give Mitchells a call because they have a complimentary spa package to offer any of their birthday buddies!
A few months ago Storm and I did a shoot at the Kenwood Mitchell's Salon & Spa. That's by far my favorite Mitchell's location (it's right above the Crate & Barrel and The Container Store!). So, stop by if you have some time today - it's an exciting day for Mitchell's! Congrats to Deborah and her amazing team, and cheers to 30 more years!
Girls Night Out January 17!
12/19/12
Last year, Amy Brenner was one of our Cincy Chic Women of the Year, and Ive just grown to adore her. Basically she offers women a variety of healthcare services from gynecology to skincare. So, when my friend at Vein Clinics of America told me about a Girls Night Out event shes doing with Dr. Brenner, I knew I had to share it with you!
This event is the perfect way to start out the new year! The Girls Night Out will be on Thursday, January 17 from 5-7pm and will feature free Womens Health Seminars including topics like Bio-identical hormones and more, looking your best in 2013, listen to your legs, demystifying weight loss and a Q&A session to wrap it all up!
You can also enjoy treats, samples and pampering like chair massages by Everybodys Health, spa-facials by Medi-Spa, manicures by Bajon Salon, and gifts to all attendees and drawings for gift baskets.
Make sure you RSVP to reserve your spot since space is limited! Call 513-777-0787 to get your spot!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
Bachelor Auction December 28!
12/17/12
My friend Toyia is helping with a great upcoming event that sounds like a lot of fun- especially if you'd like to meet a special someone before Valentine's Day- and support a great cause at the same time!
From 7-9pm on December 28 at Bentley's in Sharonville there will be a Bachelor Auction. Admission is free and $20 for a bidder's paddle. VIP tables are available for $75 and include three drink tickets and one bidder's paddle. Doors will open at 7:00 and bidding will begin at 7:30. Cash and all major credit cards will be accepted the night of the event.
To learn more, visit the event's Facebook page here or call Regina Frazier at 513-526-9447 or Toyia Montgomery at 513-290-6357.
If you're unable to attend the event but would still like to make a donation, visit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation here.
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
NYE Glam-a-Thon December 31!
12/17/12
My friend, Nancy Dawson, of Brideface will be heading up a New Year's Even Glam-a-Thon benefitting the Arthritis Foundation. The event will be on Monday, December 31 from 1-6pm at the Brideface salon in Covington. This is a cause my family is very passionate about since my husband, Pete, has RA.
You'll get you hair and makeup done for your big night out and supporting a great cause! Reserve your appointment by messaging Nancy and the event's Facebook page here or posting on the event's wall. Spots are going to go quickly so make sure you reserve your appointment today!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Local Artist Spotlight December 16 3-5pm!
12/13/12
Over-the-Rhine has a new retailer, Substance.
They're launching in style as they host "In Ohio We Style," a local artist spotlight event being held this Sunday from 3-5pm. The event proceeds will give to public school education.
Also, going on now through December 31, Substance will donate the gift of a tree being planted for every customer purchase of $50+ for a program called "Trees for Life." They're also entering those customers into a drawing for a $500 Substance gift card!
Substance is a new ladies apparel and accessories boutique at 1435 Main Street and is owned by Christina Getachew. You can contact her for more information about the In Ohio We Style event and their Trees for Life campaign at 513-381-0545 or email her at christinag@shopsubstance.com. You can also check out their Facebook page here.
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Agricola Redesign, Village Gift Shop Upcoming Events
12/05/12
Im so excited! Were bringing a new interior design columnist on to the Cincy Chic team starting in January! Her name is Diane Agricola and she owns Agricola Redesign as well as the Village Gift Shop in Glendales historic Century House. We wrote about Diane here in Cincy Chic a while ago, if youd like to learn more about her!
As we chatted about getting her new column up and running, she told me about two events coming up that I thought Id let you know about! One is an open house event at the Village Gift Shop on Dec. 5 and the other is a Holiday Home Tour through Glendale! So fun! Such a great way to get in the holiday spirit! Below is some info I grabbed from Dianes site about the events see you there!
AGRICOLA REDESIGN ANNUAL HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
DECEMBER 5TH, 5PM-9PM
Please join us for our annual Holiday Open House December 5th from 5-9pm during the Annual Glendale Christmas On The Square. A portion of all our sales all day on December 5th will be donated to the William Breidenstein Fund at Fifth Third Bank. William is a local Glendale youth who requires constant medical attention. Purchase a signed copy of A Cincinnati Night Before Christmas, and meet the illustrator, local artist Marilyn M. Lebhar. Marilyn will be glad to personalize your copy during our Open House. 100% of the proceeds from sales of this book are always donated to local non-profit adoption organizations. Enjoy the sounds of the season with acoustic guitarist Tom Laskey, refreshments and beautiful holiday gifts and accessories.
AGRICOLA REDESIGN
3 Village Square
Glendale OH 45246
www.agricolaredesign.com
2012 HOLIDAY HOME TOUR
DECEMBER 8TH, 11AM-4PM
Tickets are available at A Village Gift Shop at the Century House and the offices of Agricola Redesign. Tickets available at the door for $25. Purchase your tickets before December 7th and receive a $5 discount on each! Agricola Redesign is a Holiday Home Tour Sponsor and has donated the design team to do the holiday dcor in two of the 8 homes open for the home. Purchase tickets here:http://glendaleholidayhometour.org
Star Power: Edward Steichens Glamour Photography
12/04/12
I checked out the Star Power: Edward Steichens Glamour Photography exhibit a few weeks ago at a Star64 shoot and wrote about it here. And then in this weeks Staycation issue of Cincy Chic, we featured this exhibit and a bunch of other fun things to do in the Tri-State with those vacation days you need to use up before the end of the year.
So, I just wanted to remind you that this exhibit is limited (ends January 27, 2013). You can see it Tuesday-Friday, 11a-4p; Saturday-Sunday 11a-5p with free admission on Sundays.
In case you dont know, Edward Steichen was already a famous painter and photographer on both sides of the Atlantic, when he was offered the position of chief photographer for Cond Nasts influential and highly-regarded magazines, Vogue and Vanity Fair. For the next fifteen years, Steichen would take full advantage of the resources and prestige conferred by the Cond Nast empire to produce an oeuvre of unequalled brilliance, putting his exceptional talents and prodigious energies to work dramatizing and glamorizing contemporary culture and its achievers Fred Astaire, Clara Bow, Winston Churchill, Gary Cooper, Joan Crawford, Marlene Dietrich, Katherine Hepburn, Paul Robeson, Gloria Swanson, and Walter Winchell.
Its one of the most impressive photography exhibits Ive ever seen, and I know youll love it especially if youre a fashionista like me! So, definitely check it out before the exhibit ends in January! Here are a few more details you might need:
The Taft Museum of Art
316 Pike Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
www.taftmuseum.org
Ticket Price: Adults/$10; Seniors 60 and older/$8; Students and Teachers/$8; Youth 12-17/$4; Children under 11/Free; Free parking is available in Tafts onsite garage.
Holiday Glam Fashion Show, Jeffrey Bartlett Custom Shirt Deal
12/04/12
The Cincy Chic Holiday Glam Fashion Show is this Friday (Dec. 7) at Lexus RiverCenter and there are only a few tickets left so make sure you RSVP! The event features complimentary drinks and fare, shopping, festive photobooth, and fashion show featuring holiday glam looks. Bring a gently used coat for St. Vincent de Paul and get a free swag bag! In that swag bag, well have lots of goodies, product samples, and gift certificates. One of them that Im super excited about is this Jeffrey Bartlett certificate.
Jeffrey makes custom menswear (click here to check out a fashion show he did for Cincinnati Profile recently). The certificate is for 2 custom shirts for the price of one (I believe shirts range in price from $150 $595). He said I could post the certificate for my blog readers in case some of you arent able to come to the event! So, here you go! What a great holiday gift idea for that well-dressed man in your life!
Buying Time with Babysitease
12/04/12
It's finally December (even though it doesn't feel like it outside with this awesome warm weather!) but that means the holidays will be here before we know it! Since we wrote this story about a service called BabysitEase in Cincy Chic a few weeks ago, I've had a few of my girlfriends use it and they LOVED it! I just thought I'd do a quick blog about them to let you know about the service and how it might be able to help give you an extra helping hand and a few extra hours on the clock -- just in time for the holiday rush! Basically, BabysitEase does all the background searches and reference checks on all their sitters, and they've worked with thousands of families in the Cincinnati area to help get kids dropped off at school in the morning, put to bed in the evenings, and everything in between. Also, this year will be the first time BabysitEase is offering personal assistants for parents! If you need a weekly partner to conquer the pile of laundry, a grocery run, and some dinner prepped to feed your family, you can! (I think they just require a commitment of three hours a week to be a member) Give my friend Peggy who owns BabysitEase a call at 859-442-SITS (7487) if you need some extra help this holiday season (and beyond!).
Decorating Class this Sunday from 2-4pm!
unset
I don't know about you, but with the New Year around the corner, it has me thinking about switching some things up to start 2013 with a fresh face. I've been thinking about giving a few rooms in our house a new look, and this event looks perfect to do just that!
On December 9 from 2-4pm, A Village Gift Shop at the Century House will be hosting a tour of a historic home in Glendale, which was just completely redesigned by Agricola Redesign. Youll get to see all that theyve done to the house and learn the ins and outs of redesigning. There will be a class featuring season table-scapes, new and exciting holiday color schemes and how to create a focal point in each room.
Refreshments and champagne will be served during the class!
Space is limited the cost of the class is $30. Bring a friend and get a discount of $5 per ticket! Call A Village Gift Shop at the Century House to register at 513-771-3927. Youll also have the chance to enter a drawing for a gift certificate to the Rail House and A Village Gift Shop at the Century House.
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
A Visit to Jewels by Jules!
11/29/12
I recently got to visit Jewels by Jules and check out her selection of jewelry and other great items like men's watches (they have Marines brand where a portion of proceeds benefit the marines and they're really cool chunky watches!), Alex+Ani, Debbie Brooks and Kameleon.
I really love the Kameleon brand because you can customize the pop-out gems that are universally used on their pendants, sunglasses, rings, bracelets, etc. Changing out the gems are a fab (and frugal) way to switch up your look!
They're also having a ladies night Dec 6 5-8pm where ladies who attend and bring friends are entered in to win a pair of sapphire earrings. At the event, you get to shop around and make your wish list while enjoying refreshments. Then, when someone comes in to buy from those wish lists, they get entered to win a big screen TV! Could you imagine winning the earrings and then your hubby wins the TV? Hey, if you didn't win the Powerball, this is a great way to try your luck again! haha!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
Shop, Sip'N Stroll this Thursday!
11/28/12
Thursday, November 29 from 5-8pm, The Merchants of Hyde Park Square will be presenting a Shop, Sip'N Stroll.
This festive event will include music by DJ Toad in the Square for anyone who wants to join in on the holiday cheer!
You'll be able to shop local small businesses and with such a variety, cross off a lot of loved ones from your gift list!
To learn more about the event and vendors who will be participating, check out Hyde Park Square's website!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Gluten Free Pumpkin Pie from Scratch!
11/23/12
A few weeks ago, the hubby and I decided to go Gluten Free to help decrease the effects of his RA. I'm happy to report it's actually having a HUGELY positive impact on how he's feeling! He has a ton more energy, and his joints aren't as flared up as they usually are! So, we're definitely going to continue on this GF diet! But of course we decided to make this big change to our diets right before Thanksgiving, the biggest eating holiday of the year! Talk about trial by fire! haha!:) We had to think about everything from how the turkey is marinated, the stuffing, gravy and desserts... but my mother-in-law and I pulled off a delicious and 100% gluten free Thanksgiving dinner! One of the things I'm most proud of is the gluten free pumpkin pie (with a yummy cream cheese layer!) that I made completely from scratch! It was an interesting and fun process - and much easier than it sounds - so I thought I'd share the recipe with you!Ingredients:
- 1 pumpkin (good size is about 10 inches in diameter)
- 1 cup sugar (you can also use alternatives like Stevia, honey or Splenda)
- 1.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 5 large eggs (you can use "Egg Beaters" instead to reduce fat and cholesterol)
- 1.5 cans (12oz each) of evaporated milk
- 1 cup Bisquick Gluten Free mix
- 5 tablespoons cold butter
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 tablespoons water
- Wash the exterior of the pumpkin
- Cut your pumpkin in half
- Scoop out seeds and stringy fibers (I used an ice cream scoop)
- Chop up the pumpkin into smaller pieces
- Steam on the stovetop (I use a double pot steamer, but you could use an ordinary large pot with a steamer basket inside it!) until it is soft. (20-40 minutes)
- Scoop out the cooked pumpkin (Many times the rind will simply lift off with your fingers)
- Puree the pumpkin to a nice, smooth consistency
- Mix in the sugar, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, ginger, nutmeg, vanilla, salt, milk and 4 eggs (Voila! Your pie filling is complete!)
- Now, on to the pie crust
- Heat oven to 425F. Grease 9-inch glass pie plate with shortening or cooking spray. In medium bowl, place Bisquick mix. Cut in butter with pastry blender or fork (or pulling 2 table knives through mixture in opposite directions), until mixture looks like fine crumbs. Stir in water; shape into ball with hands. Press dough in bottom and up side of pie plate.
- Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned; remove from oven. Cool while preparing cream cheese and pumpkin fillings. Reduce oven temperature to 350F.
- In small bowl, beat cream cheese, 2 tablespoons sugar and the vanilla with electric mixer on low speed until well blended. Add egg yolk; beat well. Spread cream cheese mixture in bottom of partially baked pie crust.
- Carefully pour pumpkin mixture over cream cheese mixture.
- Bake at 350F for 40 minutes, until a clean knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Enjoy!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
J.Hilburn for the Holidays
11/23/12
Last week, I wrote this story on Cincy Chic about J.Hilburn and I fell in love with the concept - especially since I've been wracking my brain for what to get my hubby for the holidays! So, basically, it's a direct sales menswear company. What makes them different is that they use the same mills as the big-box-store luxury brands, but because they don't have brick-and-mortar stores, their prices are more affordable. So, you get great quality at great prices.
It's an awesome gift idea because you can buy a certificate for a custom-made shirt, trouser, jacket or suit (or even accessories like a custom belt!). A J.Hilburn rep (I've been working with Porter Castleberry who is SO nice - I highly recommend him!) meets with the recipient of your certificate to do an expert fitting, and helps them pick out the fabrics and finishes they want! My husband has to wear a suit every day to work, and he's going to love having clothes custom-made just for him, so this is perfect for him! I just thought I'd share in case you're trying to find a good gift idea for the fashMANista in your life too! :) Click here to check out the story I wrote about J.Hilburn, the company, their products, and the buying process. Feel free to Porter at 513-240-1163 or porter.castleberry@jhilburnpartner.com.
Happy Thanksgiving, Turkey Frying Tips
11/22/12
I just got an awesome fryer at Warehouse B (my new favorite place to get appliances!), so I've been looking up a bunch of fryer recipes. The fryer I got is just for small batches not anything big like a turkey - but it got me thinking about all the people deep frying turkeys for Thanksgiving today. Fried turkey can be super delicious, but it's also dangerous to make. So, I wanted to put together a few tips for deep frying a turkey that may come in handy! Check those out below and Happy Thanksgiving!
- Turkey deep fryers should always be placed outside, a safe distance away from buildings and othercombustible materials.
- Never use turkey fryers on wooden decks or inside garages.
- To reduce the risk of tipping, always place your turkey fryer on a flat surface.
- Make sure the turkey is completely thawed and be careful of marinades before placing it in the pot. Excess water in partially frozen turkeys will cause the pot to overflow, resulting in a fire hazard. (Tip: it's recommended that you plan for 24 hours of thawing for every 5 lbs of bird before cooking in a turkey fryer)
- Be careful to not overfill your turkey fryer with oil. If overfilled, turkey fryer oil may spillover, engulfing the entire unit and possibly injuring bystanders.
- Most turkey fryers donot come with a thermostat, and if left unattended the unit may overheat the oil, resulting in combustion. Turkey fryer thermometers and other turkey fryer accessories are available.
- The sides of the cooking pot, lid and handles become very hot, posing a severe burn threat. Before touching the pot, cover your hands with oven mitts or use well-insulated potholders.
- Make sure nothing is near the unit that may catch fire just from the close proximity to the fryer.
- Make sure an all-purpose extinguisher is handy at all times. Also remember to never use water to put out a grease fire.
- Even after you are finished cooking, do not let pets or children near the unit. The oil in the container remains extremely hot for hours after cooking.
- Plan on leaving theoil in the unit overnight to cool - it stays hot for several hours after use.
- And remember the most important safety tip of all: NEVER leave a turkey fryer unattended.
Thanks to my intern Eric Ankney for his help putting this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
Holiday Events at Northgate Mall
11/19/12
We just did a few shoots at Northgate Mall, and they honestly have a lot of fun stuff for the holidays coming up that you should know about! They're doing a Breakfast with Santa event on Dec. 1, plus a HUGE Black Friday event where they're giving away $5K in Gift Cards, free prizes, and live entertainment. All the details are listed on their website http://mynorthgatemall.com.
Attachments:
;)
;)
Re:Sign to Help this Wednesday at Japp's!
11/12/12
Re:Sign to Help Britt Born and Stephanie Cornett will be throwing an event at Japps this Wednesday, November 14, from 4-9pm.
The purpose of the event is to bring in your old campaign yard signs! They will then take the yard signs and convert them into weather-proof blankets for homeless people to be distributed at the Fall Feast later this month. Repurposed campaign signs will be donated to City Gospel Mission.
Bring in your old campaign signs for this great cause and you'll get $5 hot totties, $2 Yuengling and tasty treats from Mayberry.
And if you can't make it Wednesday, no worries! You can stay tuned for more details as the movement progresses. Volunteers are also needed throughout the course of this event! You can email Stephanie here or Britt here for more information!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Crafty Supermarket Nov 17!
11/09/12
Get ready for the Crafty Supermarket!
The biannual, juried event will be held on Saturday, November 17 with 50+ crafters from all over the Eastern US and thousands of shoppers!
You can check out Crafty Supermarket's press page to learn more about the show or their writeup in Country Living!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Altered States at Miller Gallery November 9!
11/02/12
You're going to think I've been living at the Miller Gallery lately, since I just wrote about Tyler Shields exhibit there a couple weeks ago! But on November 9, they're opening a new exhibition that I'm really excited about with artists Rob Jefferson and Jonathan Queen!
The show will be called Altered States and will be featuring the artists newest works, which have taken different directions since their original art.
Jefferson's show will focus on a singular, iconic image: the car. While Queen's work will focus on altering objects from their original forms.
The show will run from November 9-21 and the Opening/Meet the Artists will be from 7-9pm on November 9.
For more information call (513) 871-4420 or visit the website here.
If you plan on attending this showcase, Miller Gallery is located on Hyde Park Square at 2715 Erie Avenue Cincinnati, Ohio 45208
Attachments:
;)
As I mentioned in my last blog, my husband has Rheumatoid Arthritis. He deals with a lot of pain, inflammation, discomfort and even immobility at times -- not to mention all the side effects of the RA drugs he's on! So, I've been doing a lot of research on what we can do through some lifestyle changes to make life a little easier on him, and decrease some of the inflammation and stress on his body. I met with Dr. Patel at the Living Proof Institute and he had so much great info to share. The biggest thing I took away from our conversation is how wheat and gluten affect some people. I have friends who have gone gluten free, but I didn't know why or what it really meant. Dr. Patel explained it very well (basically, many people are having issues with gluten because of genetically-altered wheat/flour products and/or unhealthy preservatives). He also suggested some easy ways to make healthy changes in our diet to go gluten-free and see if it'll help. So, I went to the grocery and bought an all gluten-free cart full (thanks to the meals and recipes I found on Dr. Patel's site and on the Gluten Free Cooking School site I found. So far, it hasn't been too bad! I've made chili, lots of salads, fish and I even made pasta! (They make gluten free pasta that's made out of rice!) I bought some gluten free brownie mix, too. So, I'll have to let you know how all of it tastes and keep you updated on our new foray into the gluten free world!
Happy Halloween, Bone Bash Recap!
11/01/12
Happy Halloween! Hope it's been fun for you so far and you're gearing up for a night full of little ghosts and goblins! Pete and I actually went to a Halloween-themed event Saturday hosted by the Arthritis Foundation. It's called the "Bone Bash" and it's a big fundraiser for the AF. Each year, they recognize a person, organization or family that has aided them in their mission and this year they recognized my family! Pete, my husband, has Rheumatoid Arthritis. So, I like to get Cincy Chic and Cincinnati Profile involved to help them promote their events and fundraisers. My father in law is now on the AF board. And my sister-in-law and mother-in-law help to plan events and secure donated items for the AF's fundraising efforts. It was such a special event and I can't thank the AF for all that they've done for Pete and everyone else suffering from arthritis. Check out the pics below from the event .... and of my super spooky outfit! :)
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
My assistant editor at Cincy Chic had a great opportunity to learn from and train with a local expert we recently wrote about. Check out her guest blog below about her amazing and inspiring experience!
I recently started training with Ryan Smith, whom we wrote about in Cincy Chic and you can check out here. For me, this is huge. I fractured my L4 in August of 2011 and had been trying to ignore the pain since. At the end of June, while leaving my internship in Washington D.C., I sent my back over the edge.
There was an instant, sharp pain shooting down my leg so I took myself straight to the hospital. Long story short- I had spinal lumbar fusion surgery to fix the fracture and blown disc in my back. After spending a lot of time laying on my back and watching movies I was finally able to move freely two and a half months out of surgery.
My predicted healing time was 3-6 months. But since I was a gymnast, soccer player and competitive cheerleader I had high hopes for myself.
So when I first met with Ryan, I had a lot of explaining to do. It felt like the list of my problem would never end. And when it did, Ryan had really encouraging words. He evaluated me so he could see where I was at that point and said that I was doing much more than he expected. Then he compiled a list of exercises and training schedule that was specifically done for me.
I can't think of too many better moments than the moment I ran two weeks ago. With Ryan's encouraging words I jogged, slowly. It felt amazing, until I remembered that I've got slight paralysis in my right leg and it wasn't quite doing what I wanted it to. After shedding a few tears, he showed me how to progress from where my body was at that moment. Now I have to remember to pick my right leg up a little higher than my left, which feels weird, but it's what I've got to work with. But Ryan is always by my side encouraging me to keep going.
Then last week, we met at Devou Park and did some trail running. Yes, trail running. Three and a half months out of surgery I'm running trails.
Ryan's coaching was all and more that I could have hoped for. While at times I get frustrated because it's like starting over I'm thankful to have Ryan helping me make progress every week.
The American Red Cross' Sandy Efforts
10/31/12
As you all know, Sandy swept the nation this week, and the superstorm left many people suffering in its wake. I just got the below press release about the efforts being made here locally to help those in need. I thought I'd share in case you'd like to get involved and help them help others.
The American Red Cross has a huge relief response underway to Sandy, providing people across a number of states with a safe place to stay, food to eat and comfort during this difficult time.
Thousands of people have spent the night in hundreds of Red Cross shelters since the storm began its onslaught on the country. The Red Cross has already served more than 100,800 meals and snacks and mobilized more than 2,300 disaster workers and almost 200 emergency vehicles so far and more are being deployed.
Our response to Sandy is just getting started. The storm has left devastation in its wake and the Red Cross will be helping people for weeks to come, said Trish Smitson, CEO of the Greater Cincinnati-Dayton Region. This community is very generous and we appreciate the outpouring of support as our nation recovers from this massive storm.
Locally, 34 volunteers from the Greater Cincinnati-Dayton Region have deployed to Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey and West Virginia to assist with mobile feeding, distribution of recovery and clean up supplies, mental health counseling and sheltering.
HOW TO HELP The response to Sandy is very large and very costly and the Red Cross needs the publics help now. People can make a financial donation by visiting www.redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Contributions may also be sent to your local Red Cross chapter at 2111 Dana Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45207.
Attachments:
;)
;)
An Astaire to Remember- the Taft's 80th Anniversary Party
10/31/12
A couple weeks ago, I told you about a shoot we did at the Taft Museum downtown. Well, I just saw on Facebook that they have an awesome event coming up this Friday to celebrate the museum's 80th anniversary! Check out all the info about it below!Old Hollywood glamour meets 21st-century swagger during this celebration of the Tafts 80th anniversary.
$32 by October 31. $40 at the doorReservations: (513) 352-5134 or https://taftmuseum.cincyregister.com/80party
Enjoy a swanky 1930s nightclub atmosphere with music by the Billy Larkin Trio, specialty cocktails, and delicious complementary hors doeuvres by Executive Chef Luke Radkey.
Find inspiration in Star Power: Edward Steichens Glamour Photography for your own Framester mementos of the event.
Complementary Valet Attire: Cocktail or 30's attire suggested
Attachments:
;)
Frisch’s Pumpkin Pie!
10/31/12
You all know I love to cook and bake, but there are some things I just can't replicate at home, so I love going out to get them. Frisch's Pumpkin Pie is one of those things. I actually took my staff to Frisch's last year for one of our weekly meetings - click here to learn more about it (and see the funny video me and my staff made there!). Karen Maier, Frisch's vice president of marketing, came to our staff outing to visit and share some fun facts about the food and business. I included many of the fun facts we learned in that story above, but since it's pumpkin pie season (they only sell them between Sept 12-December 24!), I thought I'd share some of those fun facts with you:
- Pumpkin is their most popular pie variety. Frisch's has used the same closely guarded secret recipe for more than 50 years.
- Each Frisch's Pumpkin Pie is baked fresh from scratch in the Frisch's bakery and they're never frozen! And most importantly, it's made of pure pumpkin - no fillers!
- Frisch's sells more than 90,000 whole pumpkin pies in a 16-week period. If you stacked those pies on top of each other, it would create a delicious tower more than 4.2 miles high!
- They also sell more than 900,000 slices of pumpkin pie annually. If stacked on top of each other, that tummy-tempting tower would be more than 41.7 miles high!
- Their local commissary bakery bakes all of Frisch's Big Boys delicious pies, cheesecakes, hot fudge cake and other desserts from scratch.
- The bakery is climate controlled to maintain consistent temperature for optimum baking and cooling conditions. It's one of the secrets that keep the pies from cracking!
The Frisch's Pumpkin Pie season is short, so before it ends December 24, make sure you stop by and pick up a slice... or just pick up a whole pie because you know your family and friends will want some too! :)
Attachments:
;)
3rd Annual Taste of Adventure November 12!
10/23/12
Jaguar Land Rover Cincinnati will be hosting its 3rd Annual "Taste of Adventure" on November 12 from 6:30-9:30pm at Jaguar Land Rover Cincinnati.
My friend Teresa does this event every year and it's awesome! I was able to go to this event a couple years ago and they had food from various local restaurants, some silent auction items up for grabs and event some Bengals players there! And it's all for a great cause!
This year, the event will feature 10 local restaurants, a variety of beverages, music and entertainment and an amazing auction! Tickets are $50 and can be purchased here.
"Taste of Adventure" supports A Kid Again, an organization helping children with a life threatening illness be a kid again!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
Star Power at the Taft Museum
10/22/12
We had a shoot at the Taft Museum of Art last week to promote their new "Star Power" exhibit. It's honestly one of the coolest museum exhibits I've ever seen, because it speaks to my love of fashion magazines and old hollywood glamour. The exhibit, which is going on now until Jan. 27, is a collection of Edward Steichen's photography. He was the chief photographer for some of Conde Nasts' most highly-regarded publications, such as Vanity Fair and Vogue. Click here to learn more about the exhibit! I definitely recommend you go see it... free parking and it's free on Sundays! Enjoy!
Attachments:
;)
This Saturday, October 20, will be the first ever CODE Chaser Event! We first wrote about CODE in August here on Cincy Chic. and now, this Saturday is the big event! The Cincinnati Open Design Event (CODE) will be hosted by WKRC Local 12s Jen Dalton, from 7-10pm at Music Hall on 1241 Elm St., downtown!
One of my favorite designers, Amy Kirchen, will be there as well as Althea Harper (from Season 6 of Project Runway!), Jovani, and Kristy Nguyen. Music will be by DJ Etrayn and the After Party will have special guest DJ Clockwork.
The After Party will be at Mainstay Rock Bars Betty Bar- located at 301 W 5th St.
Click here and use the promo code CINCYCHIC for FREE standing room tickets!
Attachments:
;)
Think Pink While Giving Green!
10/17/12
There's so much going on for Breast Cancer Awareness Month and there's still an opportunity for you to get involved and support a great cause!
On October 26 from 5-7pm, All-N-1 Studio will be hosting "Think Pink By Giving Green" at Crave!
Crave is located at 175 Joe Nuxhall Way. There will be a happy hour, food, drinks, speakers, music, and lots of fun!
All proceeds from the event will benefit pinkribbongirls.org. For more information call 513-202-6375 or visit All-N-1 Studio's website
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
Cincinnati Maintenance Baby Expo!
10/09/12
Cincinnati Maintenance will be holding their Eco Baby Expo on October 13 from 10am-5pm.
There will be three featured speakers during the expo. Kimberly Yolton will be speaking from 11am-noon, Dr. Michael Nichols from 1-2pm and Heather Curless from 3-4 pm.
You'll get to talk to local experts to learn how to make your home non-toxic, how to prepare healthy, organic meals for your little ones and what chemicals you should avoid after pregnancy and birth.
There will also be a handful of venders from the natural and organic fields there to help you with any questions!
If you'd like to attend one lecture it's $20 with pre-registration and $25 at the door. All three lectures will be $50 with pre-registration and $60 at the door. The exhibit hall is free to attend. Click here to register.
The expo will be held at the Carnegie Center of Columbia Tusculum at 3738 Eastern Ave.
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
Rocktober Fest is upon us! Get ready to join in on the fun at Fountain Square with drinks and great music!
There will be a Rocktober event as Cincy Chic's after party for Bras with Flair on October 19. Click here to RSVP for the fashion show!
The week after Bras with Flair, Snidely Whiplash (my husband's band) will be playing as the feature band for Rocktober!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
Bad Girl Ventures Event!
10/01/12
We recently wrote about Bad Girl Ventures and SomoLend founder Candace Klein. Bad Girl Ventures looks to support startups by women while SomoLend is a peer-to-peer lending platform.
BGV has an upcoming event where they'll be introducing the finalists for their upcoming $25,000 loan. This is an awesome chance to meet the finalists they've selected.
You'll find the link to the registration page here!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Tomorrow is the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure! We have an amazing Cincy Chic team that will be participating in the race! It is going to be so much fun to get a team together to support such a great cause! Also, look out for the Cincy Chic booth in the expo area!We're going to be a sea of pink with everyone on our team wearing matching "I am Cincy Chic" tshirts, so you won't miss us! If you want to check out the event there's information here and you can also look at this link for parking information!It's going to be a great event and we look forward to seeing you out there!Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
Food Trucks Invade Covington Today!
09/28/12
I just got an email saying that a slew of Food Trucks will be invading Covington again today! It's a fun way to try out new food that your tastebuds wouldn't get to try otherwise! Bon Appetit!
Attachments:
;)
Free Lunch 'n' Learn: Supercharge Your Cash Flow
09/28/12
My Cincy Chic team and I are hosting a free lunch 'n' learn with PNC Bank that I wanted to tell you about! The theme is "Supercharge Your Cash Flow" - who couldn't use that! :) The event is on Oct. 10 from 12-1pm, lunch is free, and you get a free swag bag! Click here to learn more about it!
Attachments:
;)
Recreational Equipment, Inc. will be hosting its Cincinnati stores grand opening at Rookwood Commons from October 5-7 with the store opening at 10am each day. Theyve got a number of events and giveaways scheduled throughout the weekend to celebrate the stores opening:
Free Continental Breakfast: early birds can enjoy a light breakfast beginning at 9 a.m., an hour before the store will open.
Shop early, get a gift: the first 200 people (age 12 and older) who visit the store each day throughout the weekend will receive a limited-edition CamelBak water bottle with an REI gift card inside ranging from $10 to $100.
Free Bike Valet Services: cyclists who ride their bike to the grand opening activities between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday can take advantage of valet parking services from Queen City Bike.
Enter to Win Great Prizes: REI members and customers can enter to win gear sweepstakes packages, featuring camping, cycling and travel products.
Classes and Events: REI Cincinnati will offer educational classes, outdoor presentations and volunteer opportunities for the community after the grand opening, including Outdoor Photography Basics and How to Select a GPS classes.
Also feel free to attend REI and Hamilton County Parks District from 10am-2pm on October 20 for a volunteer event at Farback Werner Nature Preserve. You can check out information for the event here
PurpleStride Walk for Pancreatic Cancer
09/17/12
A friend of mine, Lori, has been active in the "PanCAN" organization for years. But, after losing her aunt to Pancreatic Cancer in August this year, she's getting really involved in one of their big fundraisers: The PurpleStride Walk for Pancreatic Cancer. It sounds like a fun event, and it's such a great cause, so I encourage you to check it out. Click here to like them on facebook and click here to register for the event! or the link is on our facebook page
Attachments:
;)
;)
Findlay Market Presents Eat Local for the Globe Event 2012
09/11/12
Anyone who enjoys great food and fun should be sure to attend Findlay Market's third annual Eat Local for the Globe event this Thursday! While the Special Chefs Table seating is already sold out, general admission tickets are still available! Buy your tickets here to sample food prepared on location at nine different tasting stations throughout the market. Craft cocktails by Molly Wellmann, wines courtesy of Market Wines, and Christian Moerlein brews in the OTR Biergarten will all be available along with live music and a silent auction! All proceeds will benefit the Findlay Market Fund. So dont miss this opportunity to wine and dine on local cuisine while supporting a historic community business!
When: Thursday, Sept. 13th from 6:00-9:30 p.m.
Where: The Historic Findlay Market on Elder Street in OverThe Rhine, between Race and Elm.
Thanks to my intern Eric Cepela for his help putting this blog post together!
Attachments:
;){kind=logo}
Cincinnati Comic Expo
09/11/12
I got to hang out with Tony Moore, the Co-Creator of AMC's hit zombie series "The Walking Dead" for a Star64 shoot we just did! He sketched a super creepy zombie right on-set as we were taping - he's awesome! What's even more exciting is that Tony is one of the 100 well-known artists who will be at the expo on Sept 22 and 23 at the Duke Energy Center. You'll get to meet Tony and the other artists, and they'll also have costume contests, kids activities, and even a light sabor fight scene seminar! Click here to learn more info!
Attachments:
;)
Green Drinks Mason and Fibromyalgia Benefit Event
09/11/12
Kick off the end of summer with a fun time and good cause! Green Drinks Mason, which we've written about here in Cincy Chic, is hosting a Fibromyalgia Benefit Event at the Ludlow Bromley Yacht Club (860 Elm St. Ludlow, KY 41016) on Wednesday, Wed, Sept. 26 from 6 p.m.- 9 p.m. Its $20 to attend and you can click here to learn more! Have fun!
Unearthing Unexpected Treasures at Hemptations
09/06/12
We did a shoot at Hemptations in Sharonville last week for Star64 and they had SO much cool stuff there! I learned so much about hemp (like it's 60% stronger than cotton, uses no pesticides, and lasts longer than cotton!). I also learned that Hemptations makes a lot of items (like totebags, reusable coffee filters and even cornhole bags) in-house! They also had cute dresses, hats, pet toys, and even flip-flops that were "upcycled" from tires! Definitely a place to check out!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
K9 5K Run/Walk for Boone County Animal Shelter
09/03/12
The first annual K9 5K, a Run/Walk benefiting the Boone County Animal Shelter, will take place on September 29. It's an opportunity for you to run or walk with or without your pet! It's all for a great cause too because the event is a fundraiser to save the lives of homeless pets. Click here to download the registration form and here are all the details:
- England/Idlewild Park
- 5550 Idlewild, Burlington KY 41005
- Run/Walk Starts at 9 a.m., Registration Starts at 8 a.m.
The entry fee is $20, plus a donation off the shelters wish list, before September 19. After September 19, including on the morning of the event, registration is $25 plus a wish list donation. Here are a few items on the wish list: Bleach, Dawn Dish Washing Liquid, Paper Towels, Dry or Canned Cat, Kitten, Dog and Puppy Food or Treats, Collars, Leashes
Cincinnati Film Festival Sept. 6-14
09/02/12
My friend who's very involved in the local film industry told me about the upcoming Cincinnati Film Festival. Sounds like a great opportunity to support this awesome event and see some great films in the process!
The Cincinnati Film Festival is in its third year of bringing brave and beautiful films from around the world, September 6-14, to the tri-state area. This year's international film festival will show more than 80 films representing 16 countries The red-carpet Awards night Sunday September 9, features a world premiere of the film, "The Letter" starring James Franco and Winona Ryder; and much more. They are an all-volunteer, non-profit organization, that manages an international film festival that will shine a spotlight on our beautiful community. Click here to learn more about the CFF, and click here to visit the CFF Facebook page.
Common Sense Parenting Courses
08/31/12
We just had our Schools Back, Mom Relax event last week, and a lot of the moms I talked with were experiencing some serious back-to school-stresses. Theyre dealing with a whirlwind of new schedules, friends, and challenges for the children and parents.
I told the moms that they should check out The Childrens Home of Cincinnati. They are now offering new Parent Consultation services featuring Common Sense Parenting curriculum. Parents can enroll in a six week series coming up this fall, starting Sept. 12, which will help parents learn how to:
- avoid power struggles and better control emotions
- balance discipline with affection and give positive attention
- prevent negative behaviors
The cost for each series is $325, which includes the six classes, course materials, and a copy of the Common Sense Parenting book. They even offer childcare if you need it. If youd like to learn more about the series, or to register, email Jennifer Powers at JPowers@thechildrenshomecinti.org or call 513-272-2800 x3626. Should you be interested in more one-on-one specialized services, they also offer individual parent consultation at your home, on campus or over the phone for an hourly rate.
I first found out about the The Childrens Home of Cincinnati through my work with Star64. We did a shoot there where I got to meet faculty, students and their families. It was such an eye-opening experience for me to see how The Childrens Home of Cincinnati was truly making a difference for the kids and bringing peace to their families.
One of the stats that stuck with me the most from the shoot is that 100% of parents who have experienced group consultation thus far would recommend it to another family thats pretty impressive! To learn more about The Childrens Home of Cincinnati, go towww.thechildrenshomecinti.org.
Hyde Park Sidewalk Sale This Weekend!
08/23/12
Looks like its going to be a pretty weekend this weekend! What better way to spend a sunny day than with a little sidewalk sale shopping?
The shops on Hyde Park Square will be hosting a sidewalk sale from Thursday-Sunday this weekend, so make sure you stop by and get in on the deals while enjoying a pretty day! Happy shopping!
Edible Landscape Event Aug. 25
08/23/12
I love gardening and landscaping. And who doesn't love to eat? Well, what if you could have your landscape and eat it, too? That's what my friends at Marvin's Organic Garden Center (who landscaped our house!) will be teaching with a seminar this weekend. Below is more info about it! Click here to learn more!
Edible Landscape Event Aug. 25 At Marvin's Organic Gardens: 2055 South US Route 42, Lebanon, OH.
Cost: $95.00* (Please register in advance, only 30 spaces available!!!)
This dynamic all-day Edible Landscape course begins with a stimulating presentation and show n' tell on Edible Landscaping and Permaculture from around the world providing many thoughts and concepts to help build a deeper understanding of the uses and benefits of Edible Landscape. During the presentation, we will enjoy various herbal tea preparation straight from our Edible Gardens. Next we will break for lunch to enjoy a delicious and incredible array of homegrown and local organic edibles from the gardens prepared for you fresh from our kitchen, and discuss ways that we can all prepare these fabulous mouth watering edibles in our own kitchens. Then we will move out into the gardens for a full sensory tour through a developing Edible Landscape to study up close many edible trees, shrubs, flowers, groundcovers, vegetables and vines that can be arranged in various ways in your own Edible Landscape, helping to provide practical examples of edible plant combinations and uses. Following the tour, we will head to the design table to begin planning and designing Edible Landscape concepts customized for your own yard. You will have the opportunity to lay out the foundation for your own Edible Landscape with help from our experienced landscape designer, who will guide you through the design process, providing easy how-to tips and thoughts on designing the most affective Edible Landscape for your space. We will round out the afternoon with a hands-on 'in the garden' workshop to build a complete Edible Landscape using purely organic gardening techniques. This workshop will provide an opportunity to work intimately with many edible plants that you can use in your own yard, and ways that you can optimize such plants and organic gardening practices at home and in our community.
In addition: All participants will receive a 20% discount card good for all plants and products at Marvin's Organic Gardens We will also draw prizes for a few lucky winners for Edible Landscape plants and a Free "At-Home" Landscape Design and Consultation
For more information contact Wes Duren at wes@marvinsorganicgardens.com or call 513-932-3319.*All proceeds from this event will go toward supporting our mission in the African Congo to promote Edible Food Forests.
Attachments:
;)
Big Sale This Weekend at The Spotted Goose
08/22/12
I follow The Spotted Goose on Facebook because I bought some great gifts there for my niece and nephew. They just posted about a big sale they're having this weekend, so I thought I'd share! Sounds like you'll be able to snag some good deals, and they also have some unique classes coming up! Check it out!
HUGE SALE THIS WEEKEND ONLY! (Friday-Saturday 10am-6pm)
Clearing out sale goodies: Buy 1 item get 40% off, 2 items get 50% off,3 items get 60% off all sale items!
Fall classes!!
- Mama and Me from The Art Spark Session starts Tuesday August 28 and runs to October 2. $60.00 for the session! 513.351.9600
- Baby signs starts Wednesday September 19 at 10:30 am.
513.351.9600The Spotted Goose Co.3048 Madison Road (O'Bryonville) Cincinnati, Ohio 45209
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
Pet Fashion Show, Pumpkin Dog Biscuits
08/21/12
We have our third annual Pet Fashion Show coming up Sept. 21, so I've been talking with a lot of pet owners and pet vendors lately. A lot of the pet owners I know are starting to make their own pet food and treats, so I thought I'd give it a shot. I found this recipe here, and Dino LOVES it, so I thought I'd share! Hope it gets tail-wagging results like I did! :)
Pumpkin Dog Biscuits
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin
- 2 tablespoons dry milk
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 1/2 cups brown rice flour *
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
Street Eats in Covington This Thursday!
08/20/12
Over the past year, food trucks have taken Cincinnati by storm. They're everywhere - in OTR, on Fountain Square and the parking lot on 5th and Race. Well, now they're taking over Covington for an event called "Street Eats." Check it out this Thursday, Aug. 23, 11am-2pm at the Covington Landing located at 1 Madison Ave! Mmmmm... I'm already getting hungry for it!
Attachments:
Fall in Love with The Reading Bridal District
08/08/12
My friend Jeff who helps to coordinate and promote events for the Reading Bridal District just told me about this bridal event coming up! It sounds like fun, so I thought I'd share! See below for more info and click here to RSVP on Facebook!
Fall in Love with The Reading Bridal District
The Reading Bridal District Presents: Let's Fall in Love with The Reading Bridal District. Spend the evening on Sept. 20 strolling the district, exploring the shops, listening to great music, eating amazing food and winning fabulous prizes. Are you and/or your Fiance in the Military? Has it been hard to plan your wedding around Deployments, Training, Etc...? Do you want to have a FREE Surprise Wedding that you and your fiance will NEVER FORGET? If so, email your story to Doug at Party Pleasers Services for this Once in a Lifetime opportunity - doug@partypleasersdj.com - and explain why you or your fiance deserve this special day.
Only One Couple will win, so enter today and Let's Fall in Love at The Reading Bridal District. *Entries must be received by Monday, August 20, 2012. Winner will be notified by Monday, August 27, 2012. " at Reading Bridal District.
A Bridal Affair in Glendale Square
08/08/12
Ok, listen up brides-to-be! My friend Nidhi Bedi (we featured her as Single and Successful this year!) is hosting one of her super-popular bridal events this Sunday! This one will be held in Glendale Square and its your chance to meet various bridal vendors in a super chic and fun environment! (Yup, that means no boring wedding expo here!) Below is more information about the event! Have fun!
_______
A Bridal Affair in Glendale Square
Sunday, August 12, 2012
12 4:00 p.m.
Glendale Square
30 Village Square
Glendale, OH 45246
* Enjoy champagne while sampling various desserts!
* See over 20 unique reception set ups including various linens and centerpieces!
* Preview the latest wedding fashion trends!
The event is free hope to see you there!
I made a fun little centerpiece for dinner tonight! Old vase, river rock and some blooms! Voila!:) What a great way to showcase your sprouts in a chic and unique way!
Attachments:
;)
50 Shades of .... CUPCAKES!
08/07/12
Each Tuesday, I get together with my girlfriends for what we call "Champagne Tuesday." We usually meet at a restaurant, bistro or wine bar - or we go to a friends house to enjoy a bottle of champagne together and each other's company. Since we all just read the "50 Shades of Grey" book, we decided to have a "gray" themed night - everyone wore gray and I brought 50 shades of cupcakes! It was super simple to do... just make chocolate brownies and get white icing. I wanted to use black food coloring, but I couldn't find any at Kroger. So, I used black icing (the kind for doing details/writing on cakes). I started with all white icing, and for the first cupcake, only mixed in a small amount of the black icing for a very light gray color of icing. Then, for each additional cupcake, I mixed in a little more black. Eventually, I had a beautifully gradated array of grey cupcakes! They were a hit at the party, so I thought I'd share! Enjoy! ...Laters :)
Attachments:
;)
We had some family members over this weekend, and I needed a quick app to nibble on. So, I decided to use all the basil that's growing in my garden right now! I sliced some fresh mozzarella and tomato on each leaf, then drizzled with balsamic olive oil, and it made for a yummy little treat! It was so pretty and colorful too! My guests loved it, so I thought I'd share with you! Enjoy!
Attachments:
;)
;)
I let a stranger put a needle in my head. Yup, you read that right... We did a shoot at Fick Chiropractic and Orthopedic yesterday, I met Dr. Fick for the first time in my life, and he proceeded to try out acupuncture on me.
I was terrified at first because I hate hate hate needles. Did I mention I hate needles? But Dr. Fick said acupuncture can help relieve pain (I've been having some neck pain lately), anxiety (have that too), and can even help you sleep better (who wouldn't want that?). He said there's one spot in particular at the top of your head, that when triggered with acupuncture, assists with a more restful sleep. I said, sure, what the heck, I'll try it.
I can honestly say I felt more relaxed and happy for the rest of the day and I slept like a baby last night. Could be placebo effect... or it could have actually worked. Who knows. I just thought I'd share since I actually did notice a difference - plus Storm and I took some funny pics of us with pins in our heads! haha!
Attachments:
;)
;)
Make a Visit to Spring Grove Cemetery
08/03/12
I know, it sounds morbid to visit a cemetery. Usually it's a place of sadness and grieving. But Spring Grove Cemetery is the exception. My producer needed a pretty backdrop for a promo shoot he's putting together so he picked SGC as a location. I was skeptical at first, but have to tell you, the place is full of life. No, no one's coming back from the dead ... it's full of life because of all the chirping birds, scampering squirrels and blossoming blooms. It spans 733 acres on the West side of Cincinnati and has lakes, gardens, and sculptures galore. I highly recommend making a visit to stop and smell the roses (literally!). Have a great weekend!
Attachments:
;)
;)
Cash Mob at Nest in Hyde Park!
07/26/12
Hey Ladies! I just learned about this fun new group that's dedicated to promoting local small businesses. Its called Cash Mob and they host events around town to bring people to learn about and buy from these small businesses. The event is being held this Saturday at 10:00am.
Wonder where their next event is? They chose NEST in Hyde Park! Nest is a gift shop full of unique and fabulous gift items. Heather, the owner is so excited about this event coming to her store! She says she's going to show the mobbers how much she appreciates them beginning with complimentary MIMOSAS! So, make sure you tell everyone to join the mob (haha! that sounds funny!) and support this awesome local business!
The after-mob will be at Patty's Old Fashioned Popcorn shop right by Nest at 3437 Michigan Ave. They have flavored popcorn, Hawaiian Shave Ice among many other old-time goodies! See you there!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;){kind=logo}
McHale's Bridal Event!
07/20/12
Attention Brides! As the bridal seasons gets hotter, McHale's Events & Catering would like to invite you to the Bachelorette Bash- a party for your bridal party!
The event will be held August 9 from 6:30 to 9:00pm at The Grand at 5th and Madison.
Who's going to be there you ask? 31 Gifts, Amber Bridges Studio, Belle Bridal Boutique, Blue Sky Massage, Body by Vi, Cards by Katie, Caricature Artist (Mike Warden), Courtyard by Marriott, DJ Mark McFadden, Elk Creek Vineyards, Hollywood Casino, Kamera Art, Swing This Kettlebell & Strength Studio, Mary Kay, McHales Events and Catering , Pure Romance, Toro and Star Lanes & Ulta Beauty
Hors d'oeurvres will be served during the bash!
The cost of the event is $20 per person in advance and $25 at the door.
The Reservations are limited to 150 guests and you can order tickets online or by phone at 859-442-7776
You can also become McHales' Event & Catering at the Drawbridge Hotel's friend on Facebook
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
Community Arts Center Day Returns August 11 & 12
07/19/12
The Community Arts Centers Day is returning to the Greater Cincinnati region for August 11th and 12th. The CACD is an annual celebration of community arts centers throughout the Greater Cincinnati region for a third year.
This year, seven community arts centers and ArtsWave are partnering once again to bring people out and bring them together through the arts. Because arts have lost their significance in schools across the country events like this are important for reminding people that art doe still exist and there are talented artists out there young, middle-aged, and old.
On Saturday and sunday, the participating organizations will host an Open House featuring participants of all ages celebrating their communities with creative costumes, make, banners, musical instruments, and more followed by a FREE ice cream social made possible by the United Dairy Farmers. Community arts centers and arts events like this make our region a better place to live, work, play, and stay. Click here www.FindYourCenterNow.com for a complete listing of events.
Participating community arts centers include:
Saturday, August 11
- Sharonville Fine Arts Center (11165 Reading Road, Cincinnati, OH 45241)
9:30am- Work with artist Deb Brod to make free form art from recyclables
11:30am - Neighborhood Art Parade (Around Sharonville Square)
- Emanuel Community Center (1308 Race Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202)
11am - My Nose Turns Red Youth Circus Group Activities
12pm - Arts, Crafts, and Musical Instrument Petting Zoo
1pm - Beauty and the Beast by YMCA Youth Group
- Middletown Arts Center (130 N. Verity Parkway, Middletown, OH 45042)
11:30am - Middletown Performing Arts Academy and Dancing Games
- Fairfield Community Arts Center (411 Wessel Drive, Fairfield, OH 45014)
12pm - Arts Activities and Demonstrations
- Kennedy Heights Arts Center (6546 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, OH 45213)
12pm - Neighborhood Art Parade (Follows Montgomery Road from Ridge to Kennedy)
- Clifton Cultural Arts Center (3711 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45220)
7pm - The Tempest performed by Cincinnati Shakespeare Company
Sunday, August 12
- Peaslee Neighborhood Center (215 East 14th Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202)
To Be Announced
Community Arts Centers Day is collaboratively organized by ArtsWave and the participating community arts centers with generous in-kind support from United Dairy Farmers.
Attachments:
;)
First Annual Ohio Valley Greenmarket!
07/19/12
The Ohio Valley Greenmarket will be bringing their first celebration of community and sustainability to the Hamilton County Park District and Ohio Valley magazine are bringing together community leaders in sustainability at the first annual Ohio Valley Greenmarket from August 3-5.
The three day celebration will showcase sustainable initiatives by local businesses to showcase sustainable initiatives by local businesses, organizations, and individuals through fun activities including:
A community dinner
Workshops
Demonstrations
A Famers Market Festival
& to Showcase sustainable initiatives by local businesses
On Friday, August 3: Ohio Valley Greenmarket Kicks off with a community Pig Roast in Winton Woods featuring speaker Paul Willis, co-founder of Niman Ranch, a network of 700 small family farms across the Midwest that raise natural beef, pork, lamb, and chicken eggs with strict humane animals care standards and traditional farming practices.
The dinner for the 3rd costs $35 per person and will raise funds for the Hamilton County Parks Foundation.
On Saturday, August 4: The celebration will continue with lunch and a hands-on workshop at Gorman Heritage Farm. With Debra Prinzing, the author of the 50 Mile Bouquet, who will introduce season, local, and sustainable floral ingredients.
During that evening, Debra will be at The 50 Mile Bouquet who will will be at the Woodlawn Community Center for a presentation about growing, harvesting, and design approaches that contribute to the slow flower movement. Cost for the lucy event the cost is $75 and the evening event is $15.
Then, on the final day, August 5 from 11am-5pm: the Ohio Valley Greenmarket special event at Glenwood Gardens located at 10397 Springfield Pike in Woodland. This is a FREE, full-day affair that will run from 11am-5am you'll experience a special event at Glenwood Gardens. Glenwood Gardens is located 10397 Springfield Pike in Woodland. Reminder: this is a FREE, full-day affair featuring:
A farmers market
Cooking and gardening demonstrations
Various speakers including the Greater Cincinnati Masters Gardners
The new Ford C-Max Hybrid and Ford Focus electric cars
Free giveaways!
Hamilton County Parks would like to thank their sponsors: Local 127 and Lavomatic restaurant, Greater Cincinnati Master Gardners Association, Chiptole, Ford, YMCA, Sustain Brands, Metro, Whole Foods, Yelp, WNKU and Yagoot.
Tickets for August 3 and 4 can be purchased here
Edible OHIO VALLEY is an award winning publication that celebrates the Tri-State regions established food traditions, new food trends, and the growers and producers who shape the local food landscape. Learn more here
A valid Hamilton County Park District Motor Vehicle Permit of $10.00 annual and $3.00 daily is required to enter the Hamilton County Parks.
For additional information, please visit the Great Parks website or call (513) 521-PARK (7275). Also, be sure to check out
our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter to find out more about whats happening at the parks!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
Dog Days of Summer Event!
07/19/12
Each summer, The Pet Spot partners with a cause near to their heart for a good ol' fashion cookout and summer celebration to raise funds for the organization. This year, they're hosting an event in support of the Save the Animals Foundation (STAF), a Cincinnati based no-kill animal shelter for both dogs and cats. Sounds like so much fun! Hope Dino (my dog) and I will see you there! Event activities include:
- Readings from Pet Psychic Donetta Zimmerman
- Capture your pet's personality in a caricature drawing by an Over the Line Caricature Artist
- Learn tips and tricks as experts from the The Pet Spot Training offer demonstrations
- Enjoy yummy food at the grill out!
Attachments:
;)
As the last day of the awesome Bunbury Festival wraps up today, I have some good news if you're not ready to turn down the tunes just yet. My husband is in a band called Snidely Whiplash and they'll be playing on Fountain Square as part of the 4EG Monday Happy Hour series. Not only will you have amazing (yes, I'm biased! haha!) live music, but you'll also enjoy Happy Hour Pricing ($3 Beers/Cocktails/Wine). Plus, they'll be giving out a $5 4EG Gift card when you purchase your first drink! 4EG has nine bars and restaurants around town, so you can use the GC at any of their locations!
Attachments:
;)
MDA Camp Experience with Star64!
07/13/12
Over at Star64 we just did a shoot at the MDA camp and it was such a rewarding experience. It's a camp that helps to give kids with muscular dystrophy the opportunity to have a fun-filled summer camp experience. The camp directors are all trained in muscular dystrophy and know how to help the kids do activities like fishing, swimming, playing ball, and making crafts!
It was such a humbling experience and I was so inspired by these kids and all that they've been through! A lot of the kids said that they look forward to this week-long trip all year long!
The MDA's mantra is "make a muscle make a difference" and that's truly what this camp is doing!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
;)
I don't know about you, but I love love love avocados! Especially in the summer! The only downside of them is that they always go bad so quickly. Well, I just learned that you can freeze them! So, I've been buying them when they're on sale, freezing them when they're ripe and thawing them out when I need them! Also, if you'd like some good dishes for using those yummy avocados, click here, here, and here for some of my favorite recipes! Just thought I'd share!
Attachments:
;)
Getting Crafty: Fun Flattened Bottles
07/13/12
I saw this on Pinterest and thought it was such a fun way to make a cutting board using a used bottle! It's also a great gift idea... enjoy a bottle of wine with your hubby or friends and then make a cutting board with the bottle! Click here to learn how to do it!
Attachments:
;)
11th Annual Dress For Success Cincinnati!
07/12/12
The 11th Annual Dress for Success Cincinnati Fashion Show & Luncheon is being held on Tuesday, September 18th from 11am-1:30 pm at The Hyatt.
Saks Fifth Avenue is hosting the event and its the biggest Cincinnati fashion show that they put on every year. Saks donates the proceeds to Dress for Success Cincinnati from people who show in the store the day of the luncheon- up to $10,000!
This year's title is A Fashionable Affair where they will celebrate the success of more than 14,000 women who have been helped by Dress for Success Cincinnati since it was founded in 1999.
The mission of Dress for Success Cincinnati is to promote the success and economic independence of women in need and since its founding has served more than 10,000 women in the Greater Cincinnati community.
The event includes a reception and raffle, followed by lunch and the fashion show highlighting styles from Saks Fifth Avenue as well as Dress for Success clients who will share their experiences.
Sponsors for the event include Saks Fifth Avenue, Landor, PNC Bank, Always, Keating Muething & Klekamp, Multi Craft, Sibcy Cline, TriHealth, and Wells Fargo Insurance Services. Corporate sponsorships are still available for the event.
Tickets for the fashion show and luncheon can be purchased for $75-$150 with table packages available from $750-$1,500.
If you want more details call 513-651-3372 or visit the events website here
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
Upcoming Events in O'Bryonville!
07/11/12
O'Bryonville has some great events coming up for their community!
This Saturday and Sunday, July 14 & 15, will be the Summer Sidewalk Sale. The Sidewalk Sale offers great values from all of the participating O'Bryonville businesses. You're guaranteed to find great deals while enjoying a weekend of shopping with friends and family!
Also, on July 19 from 5-8pm will be the Third Thursday BENEFIT Wine Walk. Each Month, O'Bryonville will host a benefit for local groups and organizations who make a difference in their community. The participating businesses will have extended house, exclusive shopping, and refreshments. The organization being honored will get a percentage of the neighborhood sales from participating merchants. This month's benefit is for a National Night Out with the Cincinnati Police District 2! Stop by and enjoy the fun on July 19!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
;)
World Choir Games Kicks Off in Cincinnati!
07/05/12
Downtown is absolutely ELECTRIC with the World Choir Games in Cincinnati! I love it! The Opening Ceremony took place yesterday and kicked off the 10-day series of festivities. Not only is it exciting to see thousands of new faces downtown, but it's so neat to know that they're coming from the most distant corners of the earth to experience our city! Click here to see a schedule of events to see how you can get in on the fun, and click here to see some great pics my friends at "365 Things to Do Cincinnati" snapped at the Opening Ceremony!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
Washington Park Grand Opening
07/05/12
A couple weeks ago, I talked about Washington Park and how I couldn't wait for it to officially open! Well, it officially unveils tomorrow, July 6, and I got to take an official sneak peek press tour on Tuesday! I was so impressed! There's a bandstand (complete with a concert lineup), dog park, play ground, interactive water feature (a 7,000-square-foot focal point, consisting of 130 pop jets that can be synchronized to music and lights!), massive civic lawn and a new 450-space parking lot. The renovation expanded the park from six acres to eight, occupying two full city blocks between 12th and 14th streets! Come see it for yourself at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Grand Opening of Washington Park July 6, at 10am! Cincinnati Mayor Mark Mallory and Parks Director Willie Carden will be joined by some popular guests! There will be Circus Performers, Free Popsicles from Street Pops, Free Waffles & Tea from Taste of Belgium, a performance by Japanese Childrens Choir, Explore Nature staff with Dig for Fossils and more!
Attachments:
;)
;)
Lots of people will have some time off work for the 4th of July, and one of my fav things to do on my time off is make crafts! I collected some fun and inexpensive craft ideas on my Pinterest account - click here to check them out!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
We're a week away from the 4th of July! On my Pinterest page, I've been collecting lots of Independence Day-themed decor, wardrobe and recipe ideas. Click here to see all of them!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
Wow it is H-O-T out! As the mercury rises past 100 degrees today, we need to keep our precious pets in mind! I found a great way to keep them cool in the hot weather! Throw dog toys in a water/broth mixture into a bucket, freeze, pop it out and you have instant summer fun for your pup! Enjoy and stay cool!
Attachments:
;)
Show Local Love to Bellevue
06/28/12
If you haven't been across the river to Bellevue KY lately, you definitely should! It's grown a ton over the past year. Lots of cute boutiques, bistros and restaurants! The perfect place if you like to shop local! I just got the below press release talking about an upcoming promotion that gives you the perfect excuse to visit and show your local love! See below and happy shopping!
Show Us You're a Local Lover!
Bellevue, KY " June 28, 2012" BellevueRenaissance is creating a twist on Independence Day with their July 6 ShopBellevue! theme " Celebrate Your Independents beginning at 6 pm. Theyappreciate all those that served to provide us with our independence, but theywant to extend their celebration to the independent businesses along historicFairfield Avenue in Bellevue because they, too, make America great. Locally owned independent businesses shape our community (and communitiesacross this fine nation) by reinvesting. They provide character that creates great places. HistoricFairfield Avenue is filled with independents because of the patronage of long-time customers as well asnew ones. From July 4 to July 31 tell us why you support our independents and well enter you in a drawing to win a $50 or $25 shopping spree. Well be following your visits on Facebook, Four Square, Yelp and Merchants Circle to enteryou in the drawing. Visit https://www.facebook.com/ShopBellevueKY to readdaily posts about the value of shopping local and to feel appreciated for doingit. Well enter you for sharing your thoughts thereas well. Please help us celebrate our independents!
The main reason BellevueRenaissance wants to share the shop local independents message is its good forour community and regions economy. For every $100 spent in locally owned independent t businesses $68returns to the local economy. Thatsame $100 spent at a national chain only reinvests $43 in the localcommunity. Its more than dollarsand cents its about creating place and relationships too.
ShopBellevue!: offers an entertaining evening of dining, galleryopenings, shopping, open house receptions, and special promotions provided bythe independently owned businesses located along the 200 to 700 blocks ofhistoric Fairfield Avenue.
BellevueRenaissance: is a group of volunteers committed torevitalizing Fairfield Avenue. Theirmission is to enrich lives by providing a unique experience in the historicFairfield Avenue business district.
The shops along historic Fairfield Avenue areconveniently located 1/3 mile from I-471. For more information contact Jody Robinson at 859-431-8866.
Hyde Park Blast and Kate Boutique Sale!
06/27/12
Hey Ladies! Hyde Park Blast is this Saturday, June 30 with store hours from 10AM-10PM.
Drinks and small bites will be offered from 5PM-10PM and you can watch the bike ride, attend the block party, and enjoy live music by Cowboy Mouth.
Kate Boutique will be having a SALE with ALL NEW MARKDOWNS! Save from 50-70% off with chances to win a $100 gift card and if you spend $50+ you'll get a free pair of Ipanema flip flops!
And be sure to check out their new deliveries including: Hardtail, LA Made, Genetic Denim, and Listette L!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
Sneak Peek of New Washington Park
06/21/12
My girlfriend Carolyn just moved from East Walnut Hills to the Gateway Quarter in Over the Rhine. I went to visit her and check out her new loft last night. Her building, at 13th and Vine, is amazing - complete with a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city. We walked around, ate dinner at Mayberrys (a newly relocated restaurant on Main St.), went to the 1215 Wine & Coffee Bar on Vine, and then hopped around a bit more to check out all the new attractions. The energy around OTR right now is absolutely electric - I love it. New businesses, cafes, bistros, boutiques - and my favorite - Washington Park is looking incredible. After seeing all the renovations, which are set to be unveiled on July 6, I "liked" their page on Facebook so I can stay up-to-date on all the renovations and events. There's a playground, dog park and walking trails! Perfect for all those people like my friend who are moving to the area and need a little oasis! Definitely check it out in person and click here to like Washington Park on Facebook!
Attachments:
;)
The new trend in athletic events is "mud-athalons"... basically a race through a ton of mud and lots of mud pits. I REALLY want to try one! I've done your typical 5ks, 15ks and even a few marathons but this looks like the ultimate adventure and athletic event! And this one - Muckruckus on June 30 at Fulton Farms in Troy - is all for a good cause, the National MS Society! I think I'll definitely have to check this out! Cincinnati Profile is promoting the event, and one of their promos lists "summer2012" as a promo code to get in for $15! Go to http://wannamuckaround.com to learn more!
Attachments:
;)
You see Storm and I on-air a lot here at Star64, but we also work together a lot in our other jobs! He runs a marketing agency and I run two publications - Cincy Chic and Cincinnati Profile. In May, Storm and I partnered to produce the Swimwear Fashion Show at Pirate's Cove (which was AWESOME), and we're at it again for another event this week. But this one's for the guys! It's a "Man Club" event - complete with cigars, bourbon and menswear - at Pirate's Cove this Thursday! Learn more and RSVP here: http://june21cigarbourbon.eventbrite.com Storm and I will see you then!
Attachments:
;)
Miss Ohio, Miss Teen Ohio to be Featured at Red, Pink & Blue
06/19/12
I remember when I was a little girl, I used to LOVE watching pageants on TV. I remember sobbing tears of joy when the girl I had picked in the beginning to be my favorite actually won. She was Miss Kentucky, so local papers would cover when she was doing things in town and my mom would clip them for me. She was my idol that year and I remember wanting to be just... like... her. Well, fast forward a couple decades, I'm now SUPER excited to announce that I'm going to get to work with two local pageant stars in a fashion show I'm putting together. Miss Ohio Audrey Bolte and Miss Teen Ohio Kendall Fein will be among the many beautiful models rockin our runway wearing Amy Kirchens fab fashions at Red, Pink & Blue this Saturday! I hope you can attend! It's going to be an amazing event - and even more amazing because of our special guests! See you soon!
A Blinkers' Night Out!
06/13/12
Get ready for a girl's night out! My friend and owner of Blinkers, Sandy, is hosting a girl's night out on June 19.
Sandy used to own Havana Martini Club downtown and I used to go all the time for salsa and events. I miss Havana so seeing that she opened a new place and is starting to host events again makes me really excited!
The night will consist of a Happy Hour from 5-7 with $5 margaritas! There will also be drawing for free jewelry at 5:45 & 6:30!
See you there!
Attachments:
;)
New Restaurant "Crave" Review
06/13/12
Since I'm on vacation this week, my intern Shanice Graves went to the grand opening press event at Crave, a new restaurant on The Banks. See her review below!
Need a new favorite downtown restaurant? Try Crave located by the Great American Ball Park in Downtown Cincinnati. Last week, I got a special invite to sneak peek this brand new restaurant and now Im telling you all what I think!
Crave is unique in every way you can think of; from its custom light fixtures, to its mustard yellow color palette, to its signature design in all their furniture, toits plasma flat screen televisions for perfect viewing and not to forget their diverse menu that literally has everything you would crave.
The Crave Restaurant originated in Minnesota in the famous Mall of America and nowhas expanded to different locations across the United States. The Crave locatedin Cincinnati is its 8th location to open and the first in Ohio.
When first entering this brand-new facility the first thing you do is appreciate its beautifully decorated design. The space is filled with their mustard yellow finished walls that are accented with wooden furniture. The restaurant provides a perfect romantic setting with its dim lighting and high ceiling light fixtures. All the light fixtures are custom designed by a talented design team by the name of Cameron Designs, who personally designed specifically for the Crave restaurant. The fixtures are hand made adding a unique and timeless quality to the already elegant looking atmosphere.
Zach Sussman, marketing director of Craze Restaurant, described Craves intentionsto make an edgy, urban, sophisticated downtown feel with an enhanced dining experience. The restaurant can appeal to a large and vibrate audience but its especially great for women. Its the perfect spot for a date night with yourspecial someone or even for a girls night out due to its convenient location inthe heart of Downtown Cincinnati.
Crave also offers plenty of room for business and professional work with their openfloor plan and calming environment. You cant forget their customized selection of wine that Craze specifically keeps up to date to serve their customers with the freshest choices of wine.
The theme of the restaurant is everything you crave, says Sussman. They offer awide selection of entrees ranging from pasta, burgers, American cuisine and sushi.
Crave restaurant is located at 175 Joe Nuxhall Way right across from the Great American Ball Park. It officially opens up to the public on Monday, June 11,2012. For more information about Crave and a full menu, visit craveamerica.com.
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
Unique Graduation Present Idea!
06/11/12
With all the new grads and graduation parties this summer, I thought I'd share this unique graduation present idea! Take a box of chocolate (enjoy those yourself! haha!) and replace the chocolates with various bills and coins! It's a lot more interesting than a boring check - but still gives the grad the $$$ they really want to be getting as a gift! Click here to see other great gift ideas on my Pinterest page.
Attachments:
;)
Happy Birthday to MEEEE!!!!
06/10/12
Hello from the Bahamas! It's my big 3-0 birthday today and my hubby whisked me away to Freeport Bahamas for a few days to celebrate! It's BEAUTIFUL here! I just wanted to check in, say hello and post the first blog of my thirties! Enjoy the rest of your weekend!
Attachments:
;)
Curried Coconut Chicken Recipe
06/09/12
I love Thai and Indian food. But it can get expensive to eat out all the time, so I've been trying to teach myself how to cook some of these foods over the past few months. I found a Curried Coconut Chicken recipe I really love and highly recommend, so I just had to share! Enjoy!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch chunks
- 1 teaspoon salt and pepper, or to taste
- 1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 (14 ounce) can coconut milk
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can stewed, diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- cayenne pepper
Directions
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil and curry powder in a large skillet over medium-high heat for two minutes. Stir in onions and garlic, and cook 1 minute more. Add chicken, tossing lightly to coat with curry oil. Reduce heat to medium, and cook for 7 to 10 minutes, or until chicken is no longer pink in center and juices run clear.
- Pour coconut milk, tomatoes, tomato sauce, and sugar into the pan, and stir to combine.
- Add cayenne pepper to taste (to add some heat!)
- Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, approximately 30 to 40 minutes.
Attachments:
;)
Lemongrass - A Natural Bug Repellent
06/08/12
It's going to be a beautiful weekend! What bugs me (literally) most about being outside are the bugs. So, I thought I'd share a little tip with you for how to keep the mosquitos away - naturally! Lemongrass repels mosquitoes, and it's yummy to eat! The strong citrus odor drives mosquitoes away. And, like I said, it's yummy. Lemongrass is typically used in cooking Asian Cuisine, adding a light lemony taste to any dish!
Attachments:
;)
The City Flea This Saturday
06/08/12
It's going to be a beautiful weekend! What better way than to spend it outside... shopping! Perfect timing because The City Flea is going on tomorrow and the city will be abuzz with people, shopping and fun. Make sure you check it out! If you don't know what The City Flea is, click here to check out an interview we did on Cincy Chic with the founders! Oh, and I just got an email from one of my favorite boutiques in OTR, Sloane, that they're offering 15% off to shoppers who come in after the Flea! Have a great weekend!
Attachments:
;)
;)
As I mentioned a couple weeks ago, I'm doing container gardening this year. With all the rain and beautiful sunshine, my tomatos are already ripening and my basil is already full and leafy! So, I came up with a simple - and yummy - recipe to use up some of those garden goodies! It's just basil (you can use spinach too if you prefer), tomato, cubed fresh mozzarella, cooked pasta and italian dressing (use the light - it cuts the cals and you can't tell a difference)! Enjoy!
Attachments:
;)
June 1 Little Black Dress Party
05/23/12
Storm Bennett, my Star64 co-host, and I are at it again! Not only do we work together a lot for Star64, we also team up on projects for our other jobs. He runs an ad agency and I run Cincy Chic, an online publication for local women. Last year, we partnered with Summerfair Cincinnati to launch a new event idea - the Little Black Dress party - where attendees all wear LBDs and we feature a fashion show with LBDs accessorized with handbags and jewelry from Summerfair artisans. Storm is doing the DJing and I'm putting together the fashion show. Click here to learn more about the event and RSVP!
Attachments:
;)
Pillow Beach Towel Tutorial
05/22/12
Happy to report that I'm currently writing this blog from the Sunshine State! My mom had a work trip in Orlando and a +1 was paid for. Dad didn't want to go, so she asked me! Twist my arm... free vacation to Florida... ok! :) So here I am, hanging out, and I look across the pool and see this woman turn her totebag into a super cool pillow beach towel! I asked her where she got it and she told me she made it! We became fast friends, she told me where she found the tutorial, and that it was very easy to make. I looked it up and this is definitely going to be the first thing I make when I get back home! I thought I'd share so you can make one in time for your next trip! Enjoy!
Attachments:
;)
Muffin Pan Party Pleasers
05/22/12
Ok... so a while ago I wrote about making mini meatloafs in my muffin pan, and it's received a TON of traffic! So, I thought I'd build on yesterday's post about Memorial Day Entertaining Ideas - but with a muffin pan twist this time! haha! I did some research to find everything from cute lemon slice ice cubes to make in your muffin pan and serve in guests' drinks, mini deep dish pizzas, to homemade muffin pan crayons to keep the kids entertained, and even a nifty way to serve up your condiments in a muffin pan! Enjoy!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
Memorial Day Entertaining Ideas
05/21/12
With Memorial Day right around the corner - and beautiful weather upon us - I thought I'd share some great patriotic party pleaser ideas I found on Pinterest that you can use if you're hosting or attending a get-together this Memorial Day! Enjoy! And a special thank you to the men and women who serve and protect our country!
Attachments:
;)
Last year, my girlfriends and I went to Cheers to Art to enjoy a night of fun, wine and painting (click here to read all about it!). It was such an awesome night, and now, every time I look at the painting I made, I think of my girlfriends and how much fun we had that night. Fast forward to this year, I was talking with the Cheers to Art co-owners how we should do another event - make it open to the public - and have it benefit a local charity. We eventually came up with the idea to do "Paint for a Purpose" on June 15. Click here to learn more about it, gather your friends, date or significant other and make plans to join us! The philanthropy we partnered with is the Cincinnati Museum Centers Renovation Fund, which benefits Union Terminal, so help us save a real treasure. See you there!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
I just have to say... this weather is so amazing! With the comfortable temps and all this rain, my yard and plants are just loving it! I actually tried something new this year, and I really recommend it. I bought my flowers and veggies through Burpee's site... mainly because they mail the plants directly to you when it's the perfect time to plant them in your region (no trying to figure out if they're hardy enough to withstand late spring's dips in temps). I also did it because it saves me time not having to go to a nursery, pick out plants, get my car all dirty transporting the plants, etc. They just arrived on my doorstep - so nice! And now they're all planted, budding and blooming! Love it! Thought I'd share some pics of my container gardening in our back yard and all my pretty flowers in the front (and little herb garden on the porch)! Enjoy! Have a great weekend!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
Butterfly Show at the Krohn Conservatory
05/03/12
"Beautiful and graceful, varied and enchanting, small but approachable, butterflies lead you to the sunny side of life. And everyone deserves a little sunshine." ~Jeffrey Glassberg
Today we had a shoot at the Krohn Conservatory to promote their Butterfly Show. I love butterflies (admittedly, they feel a little creepy when they're crawling all over you, but they're beautiful nonetheless), but I've never been to the Butterfly Show before! It was absolutely ....magical. (it took forever to come up with the right adjective to describe it there but "magical" sums it up) I felt like I was walking into a fairy tale. These beautiful, delicate, happy and friendly little creatures flittering around... landing on you to say hello... it was such a neat experience! So, I highly recommend checking it out... and actually, I learned that Mother's Day is a great day to see the show in this week's feature story on Cincy Chic. Click here to read the story and download coupons!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
Swimwear Fashion Show Sneak Peek
05/02/12
Storm (my co-host here on Star64) and I work together a ton - on and off camera. When we're not doing work for the station, we partner together with his ad agency and my publications. One of the things we're working on is this awesome Swimwear Fashion Show on May 17.
Anne Pachan, the Cincinnati native whos now in NYC designing divine swimwear for Cala Ossidiana (the brand she created), just emailed me with some AMAZING pics of some of the suits that shell be featuring in our May 17 Fun in the Sun swimwear fashion show! I thought I was excited about this event after I wrote this sneak peek last week. but now, after seeing the suits, Im starting to lose sleep! The bold fun colors, the sexy sheer, the strappy backs all to die for! And those backs are not only fashionable, theyre functional too. Anne says the straps and knots are adjustable to customize for the perfect fit! Posh suit, pretty color, perfect fit. Every. Womans. Dream. Click here to check out the slideshow of all the pics Anne just sent me! And click here to RSVP to the fashion show on May 17 at Pirates Cove on Kellogg Ave.!
Attention Brides and Divas!
05/02/12
A group of local ladies planned what looks to be a fun event thatll get you into the Spring spirit! Its called Spring Time in Paris, and itll be at Charming Charlie in Rookwood. If you havent been there before, its an absolutely immaculate mecca of clothing, shoes and accessories. and the best part. its all color coordinated. Need a pair of teal earrings for that new dress you bought, you know exactly where to look in this store!
The event is being held on Sunday, May 27 from 6-8:30pm. Enjoy food, makeovers, pictures, games, and 20% off all items purchased at Charming Charlie!
A bridal ticket is $25 and a Diva (aka non-bride) ticket is $15. If you need to contact anyone with Brides and Divas you can reach them at 513-202-6375 or email them here. You can also check them out here. They also have a Facebook page now, so be sure to check that out!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping me put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
Upcoming Inclusion Magazine Feature
04/26/12
I just found out that I'm going to be featured in Inclusion Magazine's Summer issue for the work I do at Star64 and Cincy Chic! In case you aren't familiar, Inclusion is a new fashion magazine based in Dayton OH, but it reaches an international readership. It's a gorgeous, high glossy, high fashion, print magazine, and I'm so honored to be featured! Check out the pics from the behind the scenes shoot!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
Launch Speaker Series: Amy Scalia
04/25/12
The Launch Speaker Series is featuring yours truly at an upcoming event! The fun networking event will be held on Friday, May 11 from 6:00-9:00 pm.
Launch (cool lounge downtown) will be offering complimentary snacks and half-priced drink features plus live music after my presentation and guest Q&A.
The mixing and mingling will run from 6-6:30, from 6:30-7 I will speak, from 7-7:30 will be the Q&A, and from 8:00 until whenever will be more mingling and live music!
The event is free and open to the public, 21 & up! And if you didn't know, Launch is located below Lunar Lounge at 435 Elm Street in Cincinnati.
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
Bajon Salon & Spa Mother's Day Deal!
04/21/12
Bajon Salon and Spa let us in on a cool little secret. They've partnered with some West Chester restaurants for a new Pamper & Dine deal.
Here's how it works: get mom a $100 gift certificate from Bajon Salon and Spa (either online or in-store) and you'll get FREE dining deals from Marriott North River City Grill, Stone Creek Dining Company, Wise Owl Wine Bar, and Grand Ole Pub- that's a $140 value!
Plus, you'll be able to purchase a Groupon-style deal from Jag's Steak and Seafood! The deal is, buys a $50 gift card for $25!
Check out Bajon Salon and Spa's website here to get all the details and to get this amazing deal!
Attachments:
;)
High Performance Strategies Course – $100 Off!
04/18/12
I dont know what it is about Spring, but it always motivates me to be a better person. I get outside " smell the roses " more, workout more, and (I know it sounds corny but) I check in on the progress of my New Years resolutions. This year, my resolution was to simplify, simplify, simplify
I was feeling disorganized and unfocused personally and professionally. I've started using a few new tactics that have helped, such as the "Work Smart, Not Hard" techniques I read about. But a friend of mine - Monica Scalf, who runs The Playground Group just told me about an event she has coming up that sounds like the PERFECT solution I need to get my resolution to simplify in gear.
It's an upcoming six-hour event called High Performance Strategies. Ooh... I like that already. Sounds very, well, high-performance and strategic! According to the invite, the class includes individual, customized, scientifically-backed profiles that assess and identify strengths and improvement areas. The course covers The Playground Groups three specialties Productivity, Personal Branding, and Stress Management in one content-filled day (but it promises to be fun, too ...heck it's put on by a business called The Playground Group, so it has to be fun, right?). Promos say its great for anyone who wants to immediately boost their effectiveness. Yup, that's me!
The course is $399, but if you put in the coupon code CINCY you will get $100 off so its only $299! Small price to pay to actually accomplish a New Year's Resolution! That'll be a first! haha!
Click here to register: http://everydaysuccess.eventbrite.com
Grand Opening of Parlour Salon
04/16/12
A friend told me about this event and it promises to be loads of fun! It's the grand opening event for a new salon in East Walnut Hills called PARLOUR.
The event is being held this Friday, April 20th from 6-10pm at 2600 WoodBurn Ave and will be celebrating the local art and fashion inspired by so many talented Cincinnati stylists and artists.
PARLOUR takes the original salon and turns it on its head. The salon is a hair salon and gallery expanding into all aspects of lifestyle, fashion, art, and grooming. The goal is to create a space where creative people can go to be inspired and inspire others.
Also included in the event is:
Raffle of PARLOUR salon services
Complimentary Hors d'oeuvres provided by The Painted Chef
Complimentary wine, beer, and water
Photographs for purchase by local artist Jennifer Hoffman
Hark+ Hark will be on location and have jewelry selections available for purchase
All Davines products are 15% off and available for purchase
Music and DJ by Derek Ruch and Tyler Games
Event photography by Susan Keller
Be sure to get out there this Friday and check it out!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
We ran this story about "Vertical Veggies" on Cincy Chic a few weeks ago. It inspired me to think outside the box... or should I say, raised bed box. We moved in fall last year to a new house with a blank slate for a back yard. At our previous house, I had a raised bed that the owners prior to us had built, so I used that. But, now in our new house (which has a much smaller backyard), I decided that I didn't want a raised bed. They take up a ton of space and they aren't that attractive. I decided to buy a bunch of pretty pots and have different kinds of veggies and herbs growing in them - thus doubling as edible and attractive plants sprinkled all over our back yard and entertaining area! I did a bunch of research on container gardening, and collected lots of tips I'd like to share with you!
- Big outdoor planters are a great way to display flowers, but moving them is backbreaking. Heres a simple way to cut the weight in half, with packing peanuts and improve drainage at the same time: Put packing peanuts into the container first, then fabric, then your dirt and plant.
- If there's a hole in the bottom of your container (which is great for drainage, but not good for keeping your dirt in the container), put a coffee filter over the hole before putting in your dirt. So, you get the benefits of drainage and keeping your dirt in the container!
- The next time you boil eggs, save the water and pour it on your garden and plants. The water becomes enriched with calcium when the eggs are cooked. Plus, why pour the water down the sink when you can reuse it for something, right?
- Talk about reusing...reuse those wine bottles, my wino-o friends! Fill it with water and stick the opening into the dirt. It'll release water as your plants need it... perfect if you don't have time to water every day, or if you're going on vacation!
- Speaking of being busy and limited on time, I actually ordered all my seeds and plants online this year! You can get pretty much everything you'll ever need for your plants and garden delivered to your door by ordering on Burpee.com. Also, one of the things I love is that they send you the seeds and plants you want when they're ready to be planted in your region (safe from frost). They also include directions (and QR code for online directions and video help!) for planting and continued care. Completely foolproof - just what I need! haha!
- Put Epsom salts and sugar into each hole with your plant; It makes them grow larger, leafier and greener!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
Confession: I was a band geek in school. I started playing the flute in 7th grade, and ended up getting really into it... doing concert band, marching band, church band... and, yes, I even went to band camp. So, when I found out that a friend of mine (Marianne Breneman) was a professional clarinetist, and also in a quartet called "Conundrum," I couldn't wait to go to their next concert! They don't play often, but when they do, it's fabulous. The first concert I went to was a "starry starry night" theme - they played at the Observatory and played all music with "star," "moon" or some sort of astronomy tie in the lyrics. During the intermission, we could climb the stairs to the Observatory deck and explore the stars with their amazing telescopes. Very cool. Conundrum just had another concert recently, and this one was at the Celestial in Mt. Adams. I don't know if they planned this or not, but the concert played as the sun set over the city - absolutely breathtaking. I just thought I'd share how much I enjoy watching these concerts, and recommend you keep this group on your radar so you can enjoy their next performance too -- regardless of if you're a band geek or not! :)
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
Calling All Hair Stylists, Make-up Artists, and Fashion Designers!
04/10/12
Are you a hair stylist, make-up artist, or fashion designer? Heres a chance to show off your work! All N 1 Studio is looking for someone just like you to for an upcoming Cincinnati Event! Auditions will be held Saturday, April 14! For information, contact 512-202-6375! Submit pictures of your work as well as a biography here so you can be contacted!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
CASA for Clermont Kids Spring Charity Gala
04/06/12
Good time good cause good excuse to get dressed up! Thats what this CASA for Clermont Kids Spring Charity Gala event will be! CASA is an awesome organization that supports child abuse advocacy! Click here to learn more about it, and I hope to see you there! (oooh and added bonus one ticket holder will win a special gift from Tiffany & Co.! So exciting!!)
My friends Aymie, Terry and Joe own Barking Fish Entertainment and they just produced a new film, "7 Below," starring Val Kilmer! It was filmed in the area (Goshen) and just released this week! The world premiere was at the Kenwood theater on Wednesday where a select group got to view the film - I was lucky to be one of those select few! It's a scary movie, with quite the spine-chilling plot, but it's very good and I highly recommend checking it out! Especially since so much local love went into it! To learn more, click here to check out its IMDB site! I took a couple pics at the premiere - one with Joe Busam, the film's visual effects supervisor. The other pic is of many of the producers and cast! So exciting!
Attachments:
;)
;)
Blaine’s Robert Graham/Allen Edmonds Trunk Show April 12
04/05/12
As much as I love to shop for myself, I also love menswear and shopping for my hubby! That's why I'm so excited about the Blaines Robert Graham/Allen Edmonds trunk show coming up on April 12. The event will feature a fashion show showcasing the latest Spring and Summer trends from Robert Graham and Allen Edmonds, live DJ music, interact with local style bloggers, and enjoy cigars from DEPs Fine Wine & Spirits as well as complimentary wine and cocktails featuring Bourbon Vodka. Men and women are welcome to attend! Me and my blogger friends from Folk & Feather, Ostentology, Josh Stevens, and Style Everyday will be there!
My hubby, Pete, actually wore a Robert Graham shirt over the weekend so I had to snap a pic to give you an idea of how awesome these shirts are. They always have great colors, prints, and little details " like the floral, paisley, polka dot, silk and metallic inside the collar, cuffs and interior trim! I cant wait to see whats new at the trunk show! See you there!
Attachments:
;)
I'm so honored that I was asked to be "celeb" volunteer for the St. Jude radiothon on WDBZ "The Buzz" and MOJO this morning! I learned so much about St. Jude in the process, and it's fascinating! Did you know it's just one hospital, based in Memphis TN? Their daily operating costs are $1.7 million (yes, a DAY) and the majority of those costs are covered directly by donations (which is why fundraisers like the radiothons are so important!). Why is it so expensive to keep this special kid-focused hospital up and running? It's because they cover all costs that the family of a sick child might incur, which include the patient's treatments and food of course, but also the family's travel and stay. Speaking of food, the kids get to eat whatever they want whenever they want when they're at St. Jude. I learned that because the kids going through treatments, such as chemo and radiation, they often don't have much of an appetite. So, when they're hungry for something like grandma's mac & cheese, the chef at St. Jude's literally calls up grandma for the recipe and makes it for the patient. These are just a few of the awesome things I learned about St. Jude. Check out their website to learn more and make a donation today!
Attachments:
;)
;)
I absolutely love to cook, but unfortunately, I don't always have time for it. That's why I almost did a cartwheel when I learned about Dream Dinners. Basically, they provide everything you need to assemble wholesome meals - made just to your specifications - that you freeze and then make on those busy nights you don't have time to prep a whole meal. They have all the recipes, all the ingredients are prepped for you (i.e., onions chopped, noodles cooked, garlic minced, etc) and you whip everything together how you like it (i.e., more cayenne if you like heat, less cheese if you're on a diet, no onions if your kids don't like them, etc). It's also very social. I visited the Anderson location last week and there were a bunch of other women there. It was fun chatting and prepping meals with them! Most of the ladies I talked to say they come once a month and prep all their meals for the next few weeks. They said it makes it easy for those busy nights when you need to get kids to school, a soccer game or band practice on time... some even said they take the meals on vacation so they don't spend precious vaca time cooking! What a great idea!
Attachments:
;)
;)
National Donate Your Hair Day
03/29/12
On March 22, more than 120 members of the P&G Family and Cincinnati community cut and donated their hair to benefit the Pantene Beautiful Lengths program.
The Beautiful Lengths program makes real-hair wigs for women undergoing cancer treatments. Since its creation in 2006, the program has collected nearly 310,000 ponytails and has helped distribute more than 18,000 free real-hair wigs through American Cancer Society wig banks across the country.
The March 22 event was in partnership with The Childrens Theatre of Cincinnatis March 2012 production of Rapunzel! Rapunzel! A Very Hairy Fairy Tale. So, some of the characters came and visited attendees, which is super cute. I put together pics of the event below so you can see how much fun is was!
Turns out, this event is actually a sneak peek of a nationwide event coming up! Pantene is teaming up with Seventeen Magazine for a first-ever National Donate Your Hair Day on April 27. Theyre encouraging people across the country to cut and donate their hair to the Pantene Beautiful Lengths program. So, if you have some lovely locks youd like to shed before summer, this is a great opportunity to do so for a great cause!
Click here to learn more about the program!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
Got (Bridal) Junk in Your Trunk?
03/29/12
I just found out about this event, and I love it for many reasons two of which being: 1) its a great idea 2) saying junk in your trunk is fun. Check out this event (details pasted below)! Sounds like an awesome opportunity to trim down your trunk of bridal stuff you dont want or need any more, and its also the perfect opportunity to snag a good deal on fab finds for your big day!
Bridal Junk In Your Trunk Bonanza
http://www.915monmouth.com/bridal_flea_market.html
Sunday
12:00pm until 6:00pm
915 Monmouth Street Newport KY
** DROP OFF TIMES**
- Tuesday from 10 am until 3 pm
- Wednesday from 10 am until 7 pm
- thursday from 10 am until 3pm and 6:30 pm until 8:30 pm
- friday from 10 am until 7 pm
- Saturday from 10 am until 2 pm
Call your Grammy and tell her to pull out the good stuff its time to make a little cash. This April 1st from 12pm to 6pm, well be holding our first Bridal Junk in the Trunk Bonanzaan event that will allow to-be-brides to come shop for those must-have items for their wedding and recent brides or everyday collectors to unload their treasure while making a few extra bucks.
Youve browsed the forums, scoured craigslist and even hit up ebay, but theres something about not only seeing an item in person, but seeing it set up just how you picture it in your mind at your wedding. Thats what well do for you this wont be set up like your neighborhood yard sale. Nope, were going to use the items that you drop off to create beautifully styled tables so you can see just how all these pieces can look at your own wedding.
If youre interested in selling some of your goods, contact brides@915monmouth.com to get your items registered, a vendor number and your paperwork all set to go before March 24, 2012. All well need is your contact information, a list of your items and photos of those items if you have them. There will be a small fee based upon the number of items you have to sell, which we can figure up for you quickly after you send over your inventory. If you need help with how to price your items, were happy to help with that, as well.
Here are a few examples of items were looking for from you (but dont feel limited to these items- we just want your best stuff!)
- Vintage books
- Crates
- Mason jar
- Jars in general
- Cake stands
- Apothecary jars
- Unique vases
- Bud vases
- Unique containers
- Handmade items
- Table number holders
- Frames
If you have any questions, feel free to email brides@915monmouth.com
If youre bride looking for something specific, email us and let us know! We can do our best to try and hook you up!
Attachments:
;)
The Flying Pig is Calling All Bands!
03/28/12
The Flying Pig is doing a search for bands! After running the Flying Pig several times, I know the bands at each mile marker really help to motivate you! Also, my husband Pete will be in the band playing at the victory party at Sawyer Point. The band's name is Snidely Whiplash so make sure you look for them. Good luck to all the runners and walkers wrapping up their training!Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Reds Opening Day Parade!
03/28/12
Baseball season is in the air! My co-host Storm and I will be in the Reds Opening Day parade on April 5 at 1pm. The season opener starts at 4:15pm.
So make sure you come down to visit the parade or tune in to Star64 to see all of the parade festivities!
I got to visit Great American Ball Park the other day and hang out with the Reds PR guy Mike Anderson. The stadium is looking perfect for a great season! All the more reason to watch the parade and go to the first game of the season!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
Run for Shelter 5k and Carnival!
03/26/12
A friend told me about this great event coming up, the Run for Shelter 5k and Carnival! It seems like an awesome event so I wanted to share the details with you! The 5k and family carnival will be held Saturday, March 31, 2012 at the Oakley Recreation Center in the Hyde Park Plaza. The event will benefit Transitions Global, an international non-profit organization that works to restore the lives of girls who have been exploited and abused. They provide aftercare for girls rescued from trafficking. Transitions Global helps to get the girls back on their feet and restore their lives, while giving them hope for the future! This sounds like an extremely amazing opportunity to help girls in the Cincinnati area. I hope to see you there!Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
12 Ways to Wear a Denim Top
03/22/12
My husband recently bought me a denim shirt. It's super cute, but probably not something I would have picked out for myself. Pete and I don't really randomly buy things for each other like this (I'm liking this new trend though! haha!) So, to encourage more repeat purchases, I want to wear it often! :) Searching for inspiration, I relied on my trusty new friend Pinterest and it didnt disappoint. Dont know what Pinterest is? We wrote about it here in Cincy Chic and I actually just wrote a whole article about what it is on my co-host Storm Bennett's site, so click here to read that. I found a ton of great ideas for how to wear my top, and it turns out that I'm going to be able to wear this a TON! From dressy and business to boho and casual. Im excited! Check out all the pics below to see all the looks, and click here to see more style inspirations!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
Three Tips for Moms with Tiny Tots
03/22/12
Ok, I don't have any little ones yet, but I recently came across so much great info about kids that I just had to share! Three things in particular caught my attention...
- Our "Mommy Maven" columnist on Cincy Chic recently wrote about this cool place called The Honey Bee in Madeira. They have a bunch of events - like one every Monday called "Honey Bee Tots" where kids aged 2-4 can enjoy music, story time and more. Thursday is Lunch Brunch from 12:00-1:00 for kids 4-5. You can bring your child by for story time with a brown bag lunch and drop them off for the hour! ...And it's FREE! Check out their site for more info - www.honeybeekids.com
- Lelli Kelly Event Saturday at Little Lords & Ladies this Saturday. If you have a future fashionista in the fam and want to foster her shoe fetish early, check out this Lelli Kelly event on Saturday. Click here to learn more about the event and this fun kids lifestyle brand!
- Pinterest. I've been absolutely obsessed about Pinterest lately. If you don't know what it is, I actually just wrote a whole article about what it is on Storm's site, so click here to read that. It's great for a variety of people in specific industries like interior design and fashion, but it's also great for moms, crafters, foodies, etc. I see a lot of moms collecting ideas for kid's crafts that look like so much fun, so click here to see those! Enjoy!!
This week, we did a super fun shoot for the station. We partnered with Tom Raper RVs to do a "tourist in your own town" roadtrip around the Tri-State. I had never actually been in a RV before, so this was a completely new experience. I absolutely loved it! These things are like houses on wheels! Actually, the one we took out was bigger than my first apartment... no joke! Some of them have multiple levels, bedrooms, and even kitchens with granite countertops and stainless appliances! Unbelievable! We just had so much fun traveling from Fairfield to Eden Park, and Devou Park to Newport. We did everything from staging a tailgate to just siting back, relaxing and enjoying the skyline... we even ordered a pizza to the RV! haha! Funniest phone conversation ever... "Hello, I'd like to order a pizza" "Ok, what's your address?" "Um, we don't have one. We're in an RV on a hill." They did find us and got us our grub! So awesome! It was an absolutely beautiful day for it too! So, I highly recommend RVing now! You can even rent them for a roadtrip, concert, tailgating for a game or just touring the town like we did! So fun!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
Help Local Inventor's Product “Get on the Shelf” at Wal-Mart
03/15/12
Attention all soccer moms and sports fans! My friend Kellys husband developed a really cool product youll want to know about! Whether its rain, sleet, snow, or the steamy-hot sun " this new invention will keep you out of it when youre on the sidelines. The product is called Under the Weather its water resistant, wind proof up to 38 mph, has SPF 50 Sun protection, and like I mentioned it was created by a local inventor! Now, he needs your help!
Thanks to a program called Get on the Shelf, Walmart is letting local entrepreneurs share their stories, let their products shine. and the best one gets on the shelves of Wal-Mart along with a bunch of business advice and support! Check out the press release below to learn all about the Under the Weather product, the Wal-Mart Get on the Shelf Contest and watch a video to see how the product works! CLICK HERE to vote! Tell your friends!
Local Entrepreneurs Invention Featured in Walmarts Get on the Shelf National Contest
Soccer Dad Inventor Looking for Cincinnatis Support, Votes
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Local entrepreneur and native Cincinnati resident, Rick Pescovitz, is hoping for as many votes as he can muster in order to get his invention, Under the Weather, a shelter for inclement weather, on shelves at Walmart stores nationwide. After years of refining the design and materials, Pescovitz just last month filled a warehouse with the final product ready to be shipped. The timing of this contest was uncanny, says Pescovitz. We began talking strategy for bringing this product to market just a few months ago and when we saw an article about this contest, we couldnt help but think it was meant to be, he adds.
The contest, hosted by Walmart, is called get on the shelf and winners are selected based upon the total number of votes their product receives. Voting begins March 7th and runs through April 3rd. Winners get featured placement on Walmart.com, valuable marketing support, advice on scaling up and, most important, a spot on Walmart store shelves
To vote, consumers can go to: http://www.getontheshelf.com/product/5087/Under-The-Weather. The get on the shelf contest is based upon votes. The product with the most votes wins. Pescovitz needs hometown support because every vote counts.
Pescovitz spent three years developing this product because he along with his wife and all of the other soccer moms and dads was tired of standing outside in the cold, wind, rain, snow and sleet to watch their kids play soccer. In fact, he says it was conceived after a brisk soccer tournament in Richmond, Virginia. On the drive home he did a simple sketch based upon the shape and size of a port-o-let. The parents spent the weekend joking around about warming up in the port-o-lets and that is what sparked the idea, he adds.
The product, a small tent large enough for a soccer chair or two small stools, is fully enclosable and sees through. It has a Polyurethane floor and Clear PVC windows and is highly water resistant and wind proof up to 38 mph, making the inside conditions up to 30 degrees warmer than the outside in cold weather. It is also lightweight and portable, folding into a circular carry bag 23 in diameter, weighing only 6 lbs. In addition to cold weather protection, it also provides SPF 50 Sun protection. A lot of people like the fact that you can get sun protection without having to hold an umbrella and because it is self enclosed, its really good for babies and toddlers, also, adds Pescovitz.
Pescovitz has decades of manufacturing and importing experience having worked a promotional product company for almost 25 years. Knowing about fabrics, specifications and having the contacts in place to convert my sketches into product was extremely helpful, he says. Of course, having three kids competing at the club soccer level also provided him with ample opportunity to consumer test the product, as well. We have been through around seven different versions, making suggested improvements each time and we are confident the final product is excellent, says Pescovitz. This past weekend my wife was in St. Louis in 30 degree, heavy wind weather conditions and I was in Cincinnati watching the games in the snow While it is nice to stay warm, the other upside now is that we sell a bunch of tents in this weather, says Pescovitz.
Owners of the tent agree. I just used my new sports tent all weekend, through wind, rain, cold, and sun, and I just love it Im a grama lady and supposed to stay out of the sun so I will also be using it all summer to help keep the UV rays off of me. My husband and I (together) can easily manage to fold it up It is lightweight enough for me to carry myself Great idea, says Michele Baker from Cleveland, Ohio. Baker saw Pescovitz in the tent in a tournament in Dayton, Ohio before the final rendition was developed and was one of the first to purchase the product.
Tents are available in red, yellow and blue. Under the Weather also comes standard with an additional roof that can be decorated with team logos. Tents cost $69.95.
For additional detail about Under the Weather and to purchase the tents, visit www.under-the-weather.com. Links below highlight demonstrations of how the tent is put up, folded, and stored:
http://www.under-the-weather.com/video/setup.php
http://www.under-the-weather.com/video/windrain.php
http://www.under-the-weather.com/video/sun.php
About Rick Pescovitz
Rick Pescovitz knows a little about starting a company and product development. Nearly 25 years ago he started Professional Image Apparel, a uniform company in Cincinnati, Ohio. Rick is the father of three soccer players. His oldest son, Max, graduates this spring from Walnut Hills High School. He played for Cincinnati United Premier and was the 2011-2012 Southwest Ohio Player of the Year. Madeleine, 16, plays for Ohio Elite in the ECNL league traveling nationwide throughout the year and is a sophomore at St. Ursula. Anna, 12, is also at Ohio Elite and travels regionally. Rick and his wife collectively have long lost count of the number of games for which they have withstood, rain, hail, sleet, snow and severe winds. Ricks wife, Kelly, has just one regret about the tents and that is that it wasnt invented twelve years ago when they attended their first soccer game as parents.
Attachments:
;)
Little Black Dress Fashion Show!
03/15/12
I'm super excited for this event because I'll be the Celebrity MC! Yay!
The Women's Council of Realtors will be holding it's 18th Annual Little Black Dress Fashion Show on Thursday, April 19, 2012 from 11am-2pm!
The event will be held at Receptions Fairfield with fashions being provided byThe Snooty Fox. There will be a Basket Bonanza as well as a Silent Auction! A portion of all proceeds from the day will benefit the Pink Ribbon Girls!
Hair Styling will be done by Statements in Hair, Photography by Jude Zirkelbach, Jeff Wieland will be doing the Cake Auction, and Renee Glenn from Your Image Matters will all be in attendance!
RSVP by contacting Kristen Moore at Kristen.moore@onlinehsa.com or by calling 859-816-2645! Tickets are $40 before and $45 at the door- or you can book a table of 10 for $350!
Make sure you save the date and I'll see you there!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
The Yelp Helps After School Special
03/14/12
Drop your pencils, close your books,and come out for a too-cool-for-school party on fun and philanthropy. You'll mix and mingle with passionate yelpers and get the CliffsNotes on noteworthy Cincinnati non-profits, all at the former school turned awesome event space, The Clifton Cultural Arts Center!
As extra credit, indulge in A+ free eats from local restaurants, drinks from local bars and an Enjoy the Arts Cabaret featuring performances by Cincinnati Ballet, Symphony Orchestra, Cincy Blues Society and others. It will be more entertaining than an episode of Saved By The Bell.
Guest are encouraged to dress up for this school-themed event! Nerd outfits, blazers, heck, even a sexy schoolgirl if you want to rock it (yes, guys or girls.) Anything goes, school's out and it's a party!
RSVP right here (http://bit.ly/yWoAmn) you can even bring a +1! Just remember, because of the free alcohol, this is 21+ only. Sorry, no little schoolchildren allowed, no matter how good they've been.
So what's happening at this party? Open up your books to page 1 and read on:
CHARITIES
1. Arts Innovation Movement:aim Cincinnati
2. Bad Girl Ventures
3. BawaForChange
4. Bluegrass for Babies
5. Caracole, Inc.
6. Chicks & Chucks, Inc.
7. Child Wellness Fund
8. Children's Law Center, Inc.
9. Cincinnati Childrens Home
10. Circle Tail
11. Civic Garden Center of Greater Cincinnati
12. Community Services YMCA
13. Crayons to Computers
14. Enjoy The Arts
15. Faces without Places
16. Franciscan Haircuts from the Heart
17. Girls on the Run of Greater Cincinnati, Inc.
18. Give Back Cincinnati
19. Greyhound Adoption of Greater Cincinnati
20. Junior League of Cincinnati
21. Keep Cincinnati Beautiful
22. Lady Riders Against Cancer Inc
23. National Kidney Foundation Greater Cincinnati Region
24. Necco
25. Play it Forward
26. Power Inspires Progress
27. Starshine Hospice of Cincinnati Childrens' Hospital
28. Stop Traffick Fashion
29. The Greater Cincinnati Foundation/The Women's Fund of GCF
30. Transitions
31. Women Helping Women
32. Alpine Valley Water
FREE FOOD AND DRINK FROM...
33. Andy's Mediterranean
34. Artrageous Desserts
35. The Avenue Lounge
36. Bakerloo Bakery
37. Christian Moerlein
38. Coffee Emporium
39. FB's
40. Donna's Gourmet Cookies
41. Glier's Meats
42. Izzy's
43. Keystone
44. PhroZen
45. PizzaBomba
46. PLAY
47. Remi J's Barbecue
48. Streetpops
49. Sweet Petit Desserts
50. Table Top Brewing
51. Taste of Belgium
52. Turophilia Quesadillas
53. vitaminwater
54. Whisky Bar Cincinnati
55. Whole Foods Market
56. Windmill Coffee
57. Yagt
EXTRACURRICULARS
THE ENJOY THE ARTS CABARET!
8:00 - 8:15 - Cincinnati Ballet (Ballet) (http://www.cballet.org)
8:20 - 8:35 - Bi-Okoto Cultural Institute (African Drumming & Dance) (http://www.bi-okoto.com)
8:40 - 8:55 - New Edgecliff Theater (Play Excerpt) (http://newedgecliff.com)
9:00 - 9:15 - Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra (Piano) (http://cincinnatisymphony.org)
9:20 - 9:35 - Cincy Blues Society (Blues - Instrumental) (http://cincyblues.org)
9:40 - 9:55 - Cincinnati Men's Chorus (Jazz - Vocal) (http://www.cincinnatimenschorus.org)
MUSIC
DJ E
The Never Setting Suns
The Young Professional's Choral Collective
RELAXATION
Lighthouse Massage
Premier Salon
Rollers & Rouge
Taylor Jameson Salon
Thrive Chiropractic
GYM
American Cornhole Orgainization
The Cincinnati Rollergirls
PHOTOGRAPHY
Anamedia
ShutterBooth
KEEPING THINGS TIDY
Vesco Cleaning
PRINTING
Seemless Printing
Don't be tardy to this free party. RSVP above!
The CARA Group- A Ladies Night Out!
03/14/12
Nest is hosting a Ladies Night out this Thursday from 5-9pm at Hyde Park Square where they will be donating 10% of all sales! Happy hour starts at 5pm at Cock & Bull, Poco A Poco, and Head Over Heels.
All proceeds benefit the CARA Group, a non-profit organization where community partners work together to raise awareness and funds to enrich the lives of people with disabilities in Hamilton County.
There will be fashion shows at Posh Boutique from 6:30-6:45pm, Jamshid Antique Oriental Rug Gallery from 7:30-8:00pm, and a Raffle Drawing at Head Over Heels at 8:30pm. The Grand Prize for the drawing is a $1,000 Head Over Heels Shopping Spree! Raffle tickets are on sale now for $5 each or 6 for $25!
Also, get to sample Raspberry Lipstick Margaritas from Foxy Gourmet! Yum!
So gather your girlfriends and head to Hyde Park Square this Thursday for a Ladies Night Out, Happy Hour, Fashion Shows, and a chance to win a $1,000 shopping spree while also supporting a great cause! See you there! Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
Network at Cliqq & Sip!
03/13/12
Here's a great opportunity to get out there and network! Cliqq and Sip is hosting a meet and greet with HR reps from The Cincinnati Enquierer, Possible Worldwide, and Brown Mackie College. These companies are recruiting for Journalism, English, and Creative Writing internships or full-time positions. All Cliqq & Sip customers that day will get short one-on-one interviews with these companies! The event is being held on March 28 from 2-5pm at 261 W. McMillan Street (at the corner of W. McMillan and Chickasaw)Not only is this a great opportunity due to the slump in the economy, but it's also an opportunity to get out to Cliqq & Sip and check out this amazing coffee shop in Clifton. You can catch up on Cliqq & Sip here, where Cincy Chic previously sat down with owner Toyia.And while you're there networking and checking out the shop, treat yourself to the drink of the week, which will be a Nutty Irishmen Latte (made of Irish Creme & Hazelnut!) Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
This weekend we "spring forward" which means Spring is almost here!!! YAY! It's my favorite season! I love it because everything is blooming, the weather is beautiful, and .... I plant my garden!!! Each year, I plant something different. The first year I started gardening, I did a bunch of random herbs and lots of tomatoes. But I ended up with too many tomatoes (my hubby started getting sick of me sneaking tomatoes into his breakfast, lunch and dinner! haha!) and herbs that I didn't know what to do with (lavender for example... beautiful to smell, but what do you do with it?!). So, last year, I planted a wider variety of veggies and only the herbs I use most often in recipes, like basil, oregano, and cilantro. This year, I'm going to get creative with how I plant my garden. Previously, I've always had a boring raised bed, but I want to have fun with potted plants, hanging baskets and repurposed containers. So, I created this page on Pinterest to start brainstorming for unique gardening ideas. I'll also include some of my favorites on this blog post. If you're interested in trying out your green thumb this year, I recommend Greener Stock on Columbia Parkway and Marvin's Organic Gardens in Lebannon to get all your green goodies. Enjoy!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
A Village Gift Shop at the Century House
03/06/12
There are lots of reasons to celebrate this March 17! Not only is it St. Patrick's Day, but it's also the 10th Anniversary of Agricola Redesign AND the grand re-opening of the Century House!
I'm soooo excited about this! I absolutely love the Century House, and was completely heartbroken when they announced they were closing in September last year. But I just got a call from Diane Agricola, owner of Agricola Redesign and A Village Gift Shop, who said that she's expanding her businesses by moving into the Century House!
Wait, it gets better she's opening the doors of her new location, 3 Village Square, in style "girlfriend" style to be exact. The theme for the day will be Girlfriends and she's going all out to celebrate the ties that bind great girlfriends.
Local author and Executive Director of Every Child Succeeds, Judy Van Ginkel, Ph.D., will be at A Village Gift Shop 3-7pm to sign copies of her book Life Begins and Ends with Girlfriends. A portion of Saturday's sales will be donated to Every Child Succeeds.
In addition, local musician Tom Laskey will be playing classical guitar from 3-7pm. He received his training at CCM and will play a diverse and extensive repertoire of songs.
At the event, you'll be able to enter one of several drawings to win a Girls Night Out Decorating Class for you and your group of girlfriends. Light refreshments will be served all day long as well.
Hope to see you there!!
Saturday, March 17, 2012
10:00am - 7:00pm
3 Village Square
Glendale, OH 45246
2012 Greater Cincinnati Independent Restaurant Week
03/06/12
One of my great loves in life is food. Another is saving money. Next week (March 12-21), these two loves unite for the Greater Cincinnati Independent 2012 Restaurant Week! This is where you can get 3 courses for $26.12 p/p (plus alcohol, tax, and gratuity) at numerous local independent restaurants. Click here to for a list of participating restaurants and you can click here to learn more about Restaurant Week! Bon Apptit!
Attachments:
;)
National Women's History Month
03/06/12
Yesterday, I did a shoot in the Star64 studio to promote National Women's History Month (NWHM). I have a faint memory of learning about this special month in grade school. But being the publisher of a women's publication and huge proponent of pioneering women, I couldn't believe I didn't know more about it! I did a little research on NWHM and learned that each year, there's a theme. This year's theme is "Women's Empowerment." You can click here to learn more about it and click here to learn about past NWHMs. So, I encourage you to take some time this month to learn more about NWHM, celebrate the women who paved the path for us today, and think of ways you can make the world a little better for future femmes! :)
Help Heart Mini for a Mini Cooper!
02/29/12
Heart Mini is holding a special promotion now through March 9. For every $100 each runner and walker raises online, they will be entered into a drawing for a Mini Cooper!
This event is coming up on March 18 and don't forget the promotion ends March 9, so register online and get yourself entered to win a Mini Cooper!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Help Me Help Cure Cystic Fibrosis!
02/25/12
My co-host Storm and I wwere recently selected as honorees for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, "Cincinnati's Finest" awards this year.
Cincinnati's Finest awards will be on March 1 at 6:30 pm at the Bell Event Center. Tickets are $65 in advance and $75 at the door the night of the event.
As honorees, we have committed to raise $2500 for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
This is an awesome cause and it would really mean a lot to me to have the support of my amazing readers!
If you would like to help me help cure Cystic Fibrosis, you can donate here! I would really appreciate your help!
Thank you and see you on March 1!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping me put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
Guest Blog From NYFW Show Attendee
02/21/12
My friend, and Cincy Chic columnist Kristie Sheanshang, is such a lucky duck. She got to go to New York Fashion Week this year and attend two incredible shows: Vera Wang and Badgley Mischka. But Im lucky too because she offered to write a guest blog to tell us all about her amazing experience and give us insight into what she saw on the catwalks! Enjoy!
Vera Wang
Valentines Day this year was a day filled with dreams coming true, pure excitement and joy, but not in the traditional roses and chocolates way. I didnt get any candy hearts or lollipops, but I sure felt like a little girl walking wide eyed into a candy shop. Thanks to a last minute trip scheduled to the Big Apple, a few nail biting phone calls and I was sitting in the fourth row of the Vera Wang and Badgley Mischka shows.
Attending New York Fashion Week was a super stretch goal I wrote down for my stylist business, Flair (www.Dare4Flair.com). It is truly a bucket list moment and I couldnt believe it was falling into place. Landing at LaGuardia, I had to keep pinching myself, the day was truly surreal.
Since it was a spontaneous decision and not wanting to bring much luggage, my mind raced with thoughts of Have I packed the right thing, which celebrities will we see, would the five various friends and family members be able to shuffle my kids until my husband returned from a business trip? Fortunately I was able to twist the arm of long time friend and fellow fashionista Jen Stuhlreyer to take part in checking off a bucket list moment together.
The day was fantastic and fantasy all rolled into one. I have no doubt that the Big Man was smiling down on me: One day, two amazing shows, seven celebrity sightings, a blogger from DNAinfo.com approaching me for my picture (wow moment), immediately followed by walking in the main theatre of Lincoln Center and a girl from Glamour.com approaching me for an interview. It really took me off guard, I thought it was a joke to be honest, but there was the camera man and chic interviewer Tracey Lomrantz of What Are You Wearing? asking about my print on print outfit (double wow moment). After we chatted, she told me that I resemble Charlotte/Kristen Davis from Sex and the City. I smiled thinking; this is a small taste of what celebrity life consists of. Then my mind raced back to the modeling class I took and how to best place my feet for the pictures. Well see if it runs or lands on the editing room floor.
Badgley Mischka
The shows were outstanding. Not knowing what to expect, we quickly realized they were starting Fashionably late and only lasting about 20 minutes each. We started with Badgley Mischka, who is known for their exquisite evening wear and gorgeous hand beading. They showed textured leggings, bejeweled necklines, fantastic cut-out shoulders on fitted tops (great for women who want to cover their upper arms, but show a little skin), wonderful draping, plus lots of leather and fur trims. There was even a vintage fur stole like my great grandma used to wear, also with cut-out shoulders. Colors shown were black, navy, metallics of pewter, bronze, platinum and gold, plus an evening gown in rose. Vera Wang brought more color to the season with tangerine, charcoal gray, tobacco brown, dark green, plum and Dutch blue. Wangs collection showed how soft and hard, covered up or revealing can coexist. She displayed this by how she cut the jacquard fabric " sharp, structural, architectural and form fitting, yet paired with fluid sheer chiffon. She designed sheer long skirts as well as structured Bermuda shorts that gave the look of a slim pencil skirt, plus heavy winter coats and elegant capes with fur trim. Wangs looks were feminine without being too saccharine.
The shows exceeded my expectations and created a desire to bring more fashionable ideas to my clients. My company stands behind the belief you dont need the newest trend to be fashionable. We focus on making our clients look and feel fantastic by finding clothes and accessories that best for their body, lifestyle and wallet " without looking like everyone else. With this said, only a small majority of my clientele could afford and desire to buy haute couture designs. Watching the shows first hand, feeling the music vibrate through the theatre, seeing the movement of the models hair and listening to the responses of fellow journalists and fashion lovers next to me, I understood the artistic performance. With only a small segment of buyers that would chose to purchase and wear these designs, the designers were providing us the most creative designs with amazing attention to detail as a way to challenge the Prt "a " Port and the mass merchandisers to step up the game. Their designs were fantasy, almost dress-up like compared to what Midwesterners wear every day, yet they inspire us to think outside the box, create different pairings in our own closets and turn the costume feel into knock-out attire that can be worn locally.
What a whirlwind trip. We didnt even have the chance to visit favorite retailers in mid town and the Upper East Side, which thrilled my husband, but not Visa. The Band-Aids of childcare successfully provided my kids with a terrific 36 hours. Fashion Week was a goal. Now that its accomplished, the memory of its performance and learned lesson will encourage greater style to permeate from me and my clients.
Kristie Sheanshang is a style consultant, closet cleaner, personal shopper and public speaker who enjoys helping women look and feel fantastic by finding clothes that best fit their body, lifestyle and wallet " without looking like everyone else. She writes the monthly style column for Cincy Chic and represents the Etcetera clothing line as well as some private boutiques in Cincinnati, OH. Flair is a 2011 Winner " Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce WE Celebrate Businesses WE Watch. Sheanshang is a Certified Image Consultant and has been published in 24-7Style.com, CincyChic.com and 365 Days of Style.com. Dare for Flair in your life and clothes. We will help you Discover your Style and Re-energize your wardrobe. Visit www.Dare4Flair.com for more information.
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
Heres a great event to help stop cancer! The Relay for Life race is coming up in April and there are lots of fun ways you can support the Cause without ever walking or running in the race!
And for that, you can "Shop to Stop Cancer!" The event is being held this Saturday, February 25th from 2pm-8pm at the Weller Haus Bed & Breakfast in Bellevue! At this event you can come, shop, get beautified and voila, you've enjoyed a good time for a great cause!
Shop til you drop with a vendor showcase of all your favorite products! Each of the vendors have graciously volunteered to donate a portion of their proceeds to the Relay for Life cause.
Be sure to tell all your friends and family so that we can all help others while helping ourselves! Even if you cant make it to the event, vendors will be taking orders over the phone and online so that you can still contribute!
If you have any questions, feel free to contact Jackie Klein here for more info and well see you there!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
Big Easy Mardi Gras Bash at J Gumbos!
02/16/12
It's a tough job but someone has to do it. Even if it involves yummy food and 30 craft beers - I'll take one for the team! :) We have a shoot coming up at J Gumbos this Saturday, so of course Storm and I had to check it out first to learn all about it. Apparently, they're going to have a huge Mardi Gras party from Friday through Fat Tuesday (that's one heck of a party!). Storm and I will be stopping by on Saturday, so make sure you tune in starting at noon!! At the J Gumbo party, they'll have drink specials (I highly recommend the hurricanes! Delish!), of course amazing food (I love the spicy stuff but they had a lot of mild/non-spicy dishes too), and they'll have a bunch of prizes to give away to attendees, like jewelry, gift certificates and free gym memberships (to work off all those hurricanes and food! haha!). It was a great little place in White Oak, so definitely stop by to enjoy the fun, food, drinks (if you don't like hurricanes, don't forget about those 30+ craft beers!), and a awesome atmosphere! Check them out and laissez les bon temps rouler!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
This week, we had a shoot at the Taft Museum of Art to promote their upcoming Bearden exhibit. I'm a history buff, and I love art, so I was on cloud nine for this shoot! The museum is actually Charles Taft's home... lots of people think it was President Taft's but it's not. Charles did have his brother, President William Howard Taft, stay at the house often though. They were apparently very close - wrote each other almost every day - and Charles was William's main financial backer when he decided to run for the presidency (it was super expensive to run back in those days too!). How did ol Chuck make all his money? He was editor of the Cincinnati Times-Star (later became the Cincinnati Post). Because newspapers were THE main source of information at the time, he held a really important position and was rewarded generously for it. Ah... but I digress. Back to the museum. It's truly a little hidden treasure every Cincinnatian should check out. They're open Wednesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.and Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Even better - the museum is free to all on Sundays and parking is always free. They even have a cute little cafe where you can enjoy a meal ... or coffee and carrot cake like Storm and I did! :) The Cafe is open Wednesday-Friday, 11 a.m.- 2 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Enjoy!
Attachments:
;)
It's Random Acts of Kindness Week!
02/16/12
Random fun fact... February 13-19, 2012 is Random Acts of Kindness Week! So, even though Valentine's Day is over, this is a great way to keep the love alive in your life -- whether it's among friends, family, significant others, or even strangers! Actually, one Ohio fashion designer I just wrote about says that conversation-starting apparel is a great way to break the ice with strangers. That's why he started his "Ohiya" clothing line that you can read about here. But if that's not your style, there are lots of other fun ways to brighten someone's day- this week and beyond! This website offers some really great ideas for how to make someone's day! And attached is a pic of my Random Act of Kindness/Valentine's Day gift I made out of playing cards! So fun and so easy! Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
;)
Hats Off to Balconi Gear!
02/16/12
Ladies! If you're getting ready for the Flying Pig or just trying to find something to keep your ears warm and the weather out of your eyes while you're out for a run, Balconi hats are perfect for you!
I posted the pic attached to this blog to my Facebook page because Dino was being super cute after our run. More people commented on my hat than anything else though. I have a few friends training for the Flying Pig and they wanted to know where to get one. So, I thought I'd blog about it to tell everyone! It's actually perfect for Pig training (which I know from experience is always through the coldest, ickiest weather because the race is in Spring).
Balconi hats are great because they're made out of a thick, sweater-like material that keeps your head and ears warm. It also has a visor to keep the sun/snow out of your eyes. Then, it has an open top so you don't have to smash your ponytail into the top of a hat!
Even better, they were designed by local lady, Renee Balconi. Since I last spoke with her, she's released a few more hat colors and a whole line of "wear your confidence" apparel. What a great message!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
;)
It's a Wrap! Yummy Lettuce Wrap Recipe
02/07/12
PF Chang's lettuce wraps. I have dreams about this delish dish, and I finally figured out how to have them in the comfort of home, sans the long wait to get a table. They're actually really easy to make.... so easy, in fact, I've made them twice in just a couple weeks! But, hey, when they're a fraction of the restaurant cost, and you can eat them while watching TV in your favorite PJs, I'm surprised I'm not making them every day! :) Check out the recipe below so you can join in on the homemade lettuce wrap lovin' too!
INGREDIENTS
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 5 oz chopped carrots
- 4 chopped green onions
- 1 lb ground chicken, pork or turkey (I found that ground chicken is tough to find - turkey is easy and tastes really good with this recipe)
- 1 clove of garlic
- cayenne pepper (peppers or powder)
- 1/4 cup crushed peanuts
- 1 head of iceburg lettuce
- 8oz packet of lettuce wrap sauce (I used the Lee Kum Kee Panda brand, which you can get at any Kroger in the Asian Cuisine area)
- heat oil over medium heat in a skillet or wok
- add meat and garlic
- after 2 minutes, add in carrots
- stir occasionally until fully browned
- add cayenne peppers/powder to taste, depending on spice preferences
- add Lettuce Wrap Sauce, peanuts, onion
- serve and enjoy!
Attachments:
;)
Cincinnati's Largest Ever Pet Adoption!
02/07/12
This Saturday, February 11th, in West Chester, Cincinnati's largest ever pet adoption event will be taking place. The event is called My Furry Valentine and this is a great opportunity to find the love of your life, if you haven't already!
Hundreds of lovable dogs, cats, and other pets will be up for adoption. Forty shelter and rescue groups in the Tri-State region are participating in the main event and 30 plug satellite adoption locations around the area will be hosting adoption opportunities!
The main event will feature pet educational sources, family entertainment, and free "doggie" bags for everyone who adopts a dog (valued at over $200 each!) as well as cat goody bags.
Nothing this big has been done in Cincinnati before and now is your chance to give a pet a new life. The mission of the event is to encourage people to adopt from shelter and rescue groups and for the organizations to adopt out as many animals as possible in one day!
You can definitely do a good deed and bring home a new furry friend for your family this weekend!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
;)
Fabulous Frames & Art has a Hot New Deal!
02/07/12
Fabulous Frames & Art has a hot new deal on Hey! It's Half Off!
Fabulous Frames & Art is one of my favorite framing places downtown - I walk past it all the time and just stare at all the beautiful prints, fabulous frames (pardon the pun), and even their cute gift items. So, I'm super excited about this deal! You buy a $100 gift certificate for ... you guessed it... half off at $50. What a great deal!
Plus, 
Fabulous Frames & Art has locations all over the Cincinnati area so there's no reason to not stop in and check out this great deal and their great frames!
After Cincy Chic's extremely successful Lady in Red event on Friday - which was held at an art gallery - the hubby and I have been in home decor mode! We will definitely be using this deal! Click here to learn more!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Make a Trip to Perfect North!
02/02/12
Just got back from a shoot at Perfect North Slopes! I haven't been in seven years, so I'm lucky I didn't break anything! Looking back, a lot has changed in the last seven years. Their tubing area is huge now and there were a lot more snowboarders this year! Plus, the whole lodge and food court area has been remodeled and looks great! I felt like I was on vacation in a Colorado ski lodge! So, if that isn't enough to motivate you to come out and enjoy a staycation right here in the TriState, check out their awesome events they will be hosting in February:
Photo Annual Big Air Competition: The Big Air Competition is held in the Audition Terrain Park on February 11, 2012. It begins at 4:30pm and will last until 11pm. Novice competition begins at 4pm - It is $15 for registration which is from 2-3:30pm. The Pro Qualifier competition begins at 7:30pm - It is $20 for registration which is from 2-7pm. The final for the Pros will follow the Qualifier.
College Night: For all of you college kids! Perfect North will be having College Nights on Friday February 10th and Saturday February 11th, 2012. College Night runs from 9:00pm-1:00am. Friday night is the Vitamin Water Party in the Courtyard from 8:00-11:00pm and the Big Air Competition as listed above. If you present a current, valid college ID at the ticket window you will receive one late night special: Either a lift ticket for only $25.00 each or a lift ticket with a ski or snowboard rental for $40.00. Snow tubing tickets with a valid ID are $25.00 for the entire 9:00pm-1:00am time slot.Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
;)
Cupcakes and Cocktails Could Mean a Free Trip to NYC!
01/31/12
Ladies, we've got a treat for you! If you like cupcakes, cocktails, and vacations to New York City tell your girlfriends about this news!
When: Saturday, March 10, 2012 from 7:30pm-10:30pm
Where: Eve Center in Cincinnati!
Get your tickets for Cupcakes & Cocktails II and you could win a FREE weekend trip to the Big Apple for 2! Not only do you get a free trip, but you get to travel in style on a Private Jet and stay in downtown New York City compliments of Ultimate Air Shuttle and Intercontinental Hotels.
Cincy Chic is also a sponsor for the fashion show, which gives you all the more reason to stop out and see us!
If you get your tickets, make sure you are present, as guests must be present to win the prize! See you in March!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Best Day Ever Photography and Faithful Bull Productions, Inc. announced today that they will be hosting the Happiest Bride on the Block wedding contest, a contest for couples to enter online for a chance to win a free wedding. To enter the contest is free and entries will be accepted February 14-March 6, 2012 on thewebsite.
The winning couple will receive the services and amenities of over sixteen vendors in the Cincinnati area! Including the dresses of the bride and her bridesmaids, the cake, the tux rentals, the wedding venue, the flowers, and much more.
Judges, including myself, will be choosing six couples as finalists. The love story of each couple will be posted on the website from March 16-30, 2012 so that viewers can vote for their favorite couple. The couple with the most votes will be announced March 21, 2012 as the lucky winners!
For more information about Happiest Bride on the Block, click here or visit their Facebook page. Be sure to enter and go for your chance to win the wedding of your dreams!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Last week was crockpot lasagna. This week? Meatloaf muffins. Yes, I'm just cra-cray in the kitchen! haha! This recipe actually happened by accident. I had found this brown sugar meatloaf on AllRecipes and it had a really high rating. But I had two lbs of meat thawed out instead of just the one that the recipe called for. So I put the remaining mixture into muffin pans because I only had one loaf pan. I actually liked the cute presentation of the muffins better and they cooked faster (45 minutes instead of an hour like the loaf recipe called for). So, I thought I'd share!
Brown Sugar Meatloaf Muffins
(Makes 18 muffins)
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup finely crushed saltine cracker crumbs
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease muffin pans.
- Press the brown sugar in the bottom of each muffin section and spread the ketchup over the sugar.
- In a mixing bowl, mix thoroughly all remaining ingredients and shape into a loaf. Place on top of the ketchup.
- Bake in preheated oven for 45 minutes or until juices are clear.
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
Valentine's Day Plans?
01/18/12
I'm a hopeless romantic, which means one of my favorite holidays is just around the corner... Valentine's Day!!! We had a shoot at B&B Riverboats this week which got me thinking about all of this (check out the fun pics Storm and I took at the shoot!)! I know B&B does an annual Valentine's Day Cruise, which I've heard good things about. And below are some other great Valentine's Day date ideas! Enjoy, you love birds! :)
- Restaurant Specials Listed on OpenTable
- Valentines Day Skate on Fountain Square 2-for-1 skating deal
- Valentine's Night Romanca at the Cincinnati Observatory
- Loveland Valentine Breakfast
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
I have a borderline obsession with my crockpot. I'm fascinated with the fact that I can throw a bunch of random things in there in the morning, and it's a magnificent meal ready to enjoy when I get home from work. I've started to do a little experimenting with how random I can be with those ingredients. I attempted crockpot lasagna - not even cooking the noodles before I put them in - and I'm happy to report that it was a smashing success. Below is the recipe in case you'd like to also attempt this amazingness, too. I will say that this recipe makes enough lasagna to feed an entire army. It makes about 12 servings total, so I froze half. Not too shabby when you consider all the ingredients total about $10! What a delicious deal!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 29 oz can tomato sauce
- 8 oz pkg. lasagna noodles, uncooked
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese
Directions
- Spray inside of crockpot with cooking spray
- Brown the ground beef
- Stir in tomato sauce with ground beef
- Pour 1/4 cup of water into crockpot (prevents burning)
- Spread 1/4 of the meat sauce on the bottom of the crockpot
- Arrange 1/3 of the uncooked noodles over the sauce (you can break them up so they fit)
- Combine the cheeses in a bowl. Spoon 1/3 of the cheeses over noodles.
- Repeat layers twice
- Top with remaining sauce
- Cover and cook on low for 4hrs
- Let the lasagna stand in the crockpot with lid off for 10 minutes before serving
- Add chopped onion and garlic when you brown the beef
- Use Italian sausage in place of ground beef or mixed in with the ground beef
- Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the cheese mixture
- Replace cottage cheese with Ricotta
- Add 1/2 cup additional shredded mozzarella cheese to the top of lasagna 5 minutes prior to serving
Attachments:
;)
Cincinnati Boutique Sale This Weekend Only!
01/12/12
Take in a deep breath. What's that amazing aroma? A bunch of local boutiques are cooking up some steaming hot deals! This is a great time of the year to get some deep discounts at local retailers. Stores are liquidating their remaining inventory and trying to make room for their new Spring stuff! That's why twice a year, a bunch of local fashion boutiques get together for the Cincinnati Boutique Sale. The winter Sale is this weekend! Here are all the details....
When: January 13 - 10am-7pm; January 14 - 10am-6pm; January 15 - 12pm-5pm
Location: Sycamore Plaza, which is across from the Kenwood Towne Center, by Barnes & Noble
There is a $5 donation for admission to benefit The Karen Wellington Foundation for Breast Cancer " so your money will be going to a great cause!
I'm SO excited for this event! Youll find the best deals of the year at this sale. Oh and a little piece of advice is to go on Friday for the best selection, and then go back on Sunday because the boutiques usually add more discounts on the last day to move the merchandise!
Click here for a list of all the boutiques thatll be there. Happy shopping!
Attachments:
;)
Solutions for Your New Year's Resolutions
01/04/12
Well, we're about to wrap our our first week of 2012. If you're one of the millions of people who made a New Year's resolution to lose a few pounds, I have a few ways to help you stick to it!
The first I learned about from a Star64 "At the Movies" shoot we just did yesterday at Beechmont Racquet & Fitness Club in Anderson. They are doing a "no enrollment fee" deal from now until Jan. 31. My Cincy Chic office is in the Professional Center attached to the Club and I seriously had NO IDEA how huge this fitness center is until we did the shoot. They have a heated pool, indoor tennis courts, racquet ball courts, climbing wall, cardio and weight machines galore, cycling/yoga/aerobics classes, cardio theater (perfect for those of you starting your Flying Pig marathon training) and lots more.
My second tip is from Bella Forza Fitness. They're a cute female-only fitness facility in Oakley. They will be having a special event on January 28 to launch new releases of their Body Pump and Body Combat classes. Then, that evening they will be having a Pole Showcase. The public is invited to all of it! Ahem, yes, I said "pole" ...short for pole dancing... but it's fitness-focused pole dancing so don't expect to be learning a new career here. :) Just a great way to trim down while having fun and gaining confidence!
Third is an event going on this Thursday Jan. 5! It's the "Girls Night Out! A New You . . . Or Less of You!" event at Dr. Amy Brenner and Associates in West Chester. Below is a list of what they'll be doing from 4-8pm. Call 513-777-0787 to RSVP as soon as possible because space is very limited.
- Free Women's Health Seminars
- 4:00pm Weight loss (and the HCG diet)
- 5:00pm Bioidentical Hormones(co-sponsored by Happy Hormone Cottage)
- 6:00pm Low Libido
- 7:00pm Weight Loss (and the HCG diet)
- * Free Manicures by Bajon Salon
- * Free Chair Massages
- * Free Spa- Facials
- * Hors doeuvres by Whole foods
- * Free Gifts to all Attendees
- * Drawings for Gift Baskets
New Year, New Stuff Here at Star64!
12/29/11
Well, this weekend marks the end of 2011 and the beginning of a whole new year. We have lots of great things planned for you in 2012! I can't wait to tell you about all of them! Some things I will have to wait to share (I hear patience is a virtue, right?!) :) but here are some things I can tell you about!
First of all... here on my blog, I'm going to be introducing guest bloggers to mix things up and provide even more great content! Guests will include fitness fanatic Beth Underhill from Bella Forza Fitness, life coach Shari Goldsmith, and fashion guru Kristie Sheanshang. So, make sure you bookmark this blog and check back often to check out all the great stuff we'll be posting for you!
Also new in the new year will be lots of fun interaction on our Star64 Facebook page! Expect to see lots of contests, giveaways, opportunities to appear on-air and sneak peeks of where Storm and I will be visiting for our "At the Movies" shoots.
So, have a fun New Year's Eve celebration, and check back "next year" for all the new things we have planned for the new year!
Hope you had a great holiday! I sure did! My family came into town and spent it with me, my husband and his family... So nice to have everyone together!
If you're still in the holiday spirit and giving mood, I definitely suggest you check out Kenzie's Closet. A few months ago, Cincy Chic hosted a "Wearable Art Fashion Show" event to benefit this awesome non-profit. Attendees were asked to either donate $10 or a gently used dress for access into the event.
I'm proud to say the event generated $450 and more than 200 dresses for Kenzies Closets mission to aid economically disadvantaged girls from schools throughout Greater Cincinnati!
The Oakley-based non-profit organization makes high school prom dresses and related accessories available to students who can't afford them so that no young woman in Cincinnati will have to miss her prom because of family financial limitations.
To learn more about Kenzie's Closet, visit kenziescloset.org.
Attachments:
;)
Primping for a Cause!
12/22/11
Prepare for New Year's Eve by getting glammed-up and supporting an AMAZING cause! BRIDEface is hosting an event to benefit Rock Pink 4 Ali to help support cancer and to remember the hard fought battle by Ali Nunery.
Come out to support this great cause with a facial for $65 (including airbrush & lashes), blowouts for $30, and updos for $60 by Liz Carter, as a portion of the benefits are going to Rock Pink 4 Ali.
When: Saturday, December 31st from 11:00am-5:00pm
Where: The Bridal Studio
610 Mainstrasse, Covington
These are being done appointment only and you may contact Nancy at nancy@brideface.com
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping put this blog post together!
Brought in my rosemary plant, dressed it up for the holidays, and voila I have a functional and festive centerpiece! :)
Attachments:
;)
I don't know about you, but nothing makes me happier than when I feel organized. If it's color coded, alphabetized, or in a spreadsheet or list, I'm in heaven. That's why I completely lost my freaking mind yesterday when I came across the online organization mecca that is "The Project Girl." She has spreadsheets galore, project ideas, scrapbooking tools and tips, etc etc... My two favorites are this gift spreadsheet (so you can keep track of what you bought and who you bought it for, so you don't forget anyone or accidentally buy more than you need) and this meal planner (to help you plan what you'll be making for each meal, and all the ingredients - split into grocery categories - you'll need to shop for those meals). Brilliant! Enjoy! :)
Attachments:
;)
;)
This past Saturday, the Jingle Bell 5k rang through Covington KY to benefit the Arthritis Foundation, and I had the privilege of being an Honored Chair of the event!
My husband Pete has Rheumatoid Arthritis, so I have always been very passionate about supporting the Foundation. They've been a huge support to Pete and our family when we need information, experts or advice, so I was thrilled to be involved!
While I was running I saw a Jingle Bell Run 5k sign that really inspired me. It said "We run for those who can't!" It kind of made me tear up because it's true. There's no way Pete could have run three miles. But the several hundred supporters who did run it raised thousands of valuable funds that will support research and development so that one day arthritis will be a disease of the past!
You can find more information about arthritis and learn how to get involved in the Foundation's other events coming up here! They always have a fun arthritis walk in the spring! Hope to see you there!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping me put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
EnterTRAINment Junction!
12/09/11
I just visited EnterTRAINment Junction with my co-host Storm and we had SUCH a great time! For those of you who don't know, EnterTRAINment Junction is the largest indoor train display in Cincinnati! It's the perfect place for all ages, and it's especially perfect if you're looking for something fun to do indoors when "the weather outside is frightful") :)
This holiday season, they have a special area called "Christmas at the Junction" going on through January 1. It features pictures with Santa, yummy cookies with Mrs. Claus, and falling snow (yes, indoors!). Storm and I got our picture taken with Santa - you get a print out of the pic and they can email it to you! The north pole sure got tech savvy since the last time I sat on Santa's lap!
You can buy tickets online or at the door (even the ticket windows look like a train station! So cool!). There's also a free area at the Junction called Main St. Holiday Trains that features several train displays. I don't know about you, but free is my favorite price! haha!
Also, if you still have holiday shopping to do, EnterTRAINment Junction is the place to be! They have a store where you can buy trains, toys, and dollhouses! It's the ultimate place for filling your Santa sleigh with great gifts!
Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping me put this blog post together!
Attachments:
;)
Jewels by Jules does New York!
12/06/11
I just had a New York experience right here in Montgomery! I went to a shoot with Jewels by Jules in Montgomery and they had an amazing line that I fell in love with! The designer of the line is Debbie Brooks and she is based out of New York. They do handbags, wallets, cuffs, iPad cases, iPhone cases, plus much more! What's really great is the handbags have a magnetic pendant that can be swapped out to match your outfit. This Wednesday and Thursday they're going to be having a Debbie Brooks trunk show, which gives you the perfect opportunity to stop by and check it out and maybe even treat yourself to a new bag! You can call them at 513-827-9305 or visit their website at Jewelbyjules.net! See you there!"Thanks to my intern Sara Elliott for helping me put this blog together!"
Attachments:
;)
;)
I had a wild time at my last Star64 shoot! It was at the Cincinnati Zoo! I did one of the segments with Thane Maynard, the zoo director. He let me hold Charlie the penguin, who was absolutely adorable! Charlie kept letting out happy feet "honks" in the middle of our segments and we'd have to reshoot! Too funny! Then I saw a peacock roaming around and tried to get a picture with it, but it was shy so I just admired it from afar. (He had no idea how fashionable he is - peacock feathers are very on trend right now! haha!) You can see these zoo segments in some upcoming Star64 promos, so make sure you stay tuned!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
Cincinnati Chili Recipe
11/23/11
Thanksgiving is tomorrow! It's one of my favorite holidays because it's all about taking time out of your busy life to be with the ones you love ... be thankful ... and be absolutely gluttonous. :)
Cooking is one of my specialties (and I'll be sharing lots of my recipes here on this blog!). So, to celebrate this foodie-friendly holiday, I'm going to share my chili recipe as a Thanksgiving gift to you!
I just made it the other night and made a slight variation to it (used ground venison - which my husband recently got at our family farm) and it was delish! So, I do recommend that variation, but here's the recipe I typically use:
- 1 lb of ground beef
- I packet of "Cincinnati Chili Mix" (Krogers carries it by the gravy mixture packets)
- 1 large onion diced
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp chili pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 can of mushrooms (drain juices before adding)
- 2 cans of 14.5 oz stewed tomatoes (do NOT drain juices before adding)
Add it all into a crockpot, cook for 4 hours on high, serve over spaghetti noodles, and add sharp cheddar and onions to taste.
Enjoy!
Attachments:
;)
Big Fun at Big Tree Plantation
11/17/11
This week I visited Big Tree Plantation for a Star64 movies shoot and I was pleasantly surprised! I just thought it was a big tree plantation (yes, it's very appropriately named) where people go to get their Christmas trees.
But, I quickly learned that it's so much more! They have a winter wonderland for kids (crafts, face painting, meeting Santa, live reindeer, etc) and also an amazing gift shop. In the shop, which is actually in a shabby chic old barn, they had ornaments you can buy to decorate your tree in theme (beach, western, glitzy), and you can personalize the ornaments for free (like, if you want to give it to "mom" "grandpa" or put a year or family name on it). There's a kids shopping area for kids where all the shelves are kid height and there are gift items they can buy for their parents, siblings, grand parents or friends at school. Super cute!
My favorite find? Well, I'm a shoe-o-holic, so I of course fell in love with the shoe ornaments. So chic! I highly recommend visiting Big Tree Plantation - whether or not you need a tree...or shoe ornaments - to make some memories with your family this holiday season!
Attachments:
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
Tonight's Programming
5:00pm Maury
6 & 6:30pm Family Feud 7 & 7:30pm The Big Bang Theory 8 & 9pm Law & Order: SVU 10:00pm Law & Order: Criminal Intent 11:00pm Rules of Engagement |
News
