by Lisa Although I really love the escape that watching a good movie provides, I rarely go to the theater. Considering the fact that a trip to the theater can average well over $11, I often feel like I would prefer to visit the red box, and have “Movie Night” at home. Whenever I do venture out to the cinema, I prefer a luxe experience… enter Landmark Theaters!
There are several locations throughout the US; however I have a special affinity for the Harbor East location. The theaters offer a sophisticated, adult theater experience which includes gourmet snacks, and my favorite amenity- cocktails!!! You can even take your libation into the theater with you.
Cinema and cocktails make for the perfect date, or evening out with your friends.
Some of us miss out on great vacationing opportunities to pursue when it is time to go on vacation. I know when you think about vacationing you want to be as far away from the norm as possible. Who doesn’t? The thought of islands, beautiful sand, clear beaches, and tropical music has encapsulated my mind as I write. For some, financial responsibilities inhibit our ability for spontaneous vacations out of the country. If you are anything like me, you may have to financially plan for vacations like this, but when you are blessed to reap the benefits of being able to truly vacation without worrying about spending limits it is truly worth it. Throughout the years, I have witnessed many stay at home during their vacation time because they were not able to travel to their ideal vacation destination for the year. I do understand that one may feel bummed about the results; however you owe this to yourself to truly enjoy your vacation. All year you have worked and now it is time to play! Your mind, body, and emotions need this and it’s up to you to make it happen.
Begin with changing your definition of vacation. Last year my friends and I went on daycations! Daycations are daily trips to different places that you would not typically venture to. We visited Virginia, extensive parts of Maryland, and Washington, D.C. in 3 days!
If that is not your thing, try visiting another state and research activities being offered during your stay. 1)Make a list of all the people you know in other states 2)Select one 3)Make a phone call to ask about staying at their chateau 4)Decide upon best route of travel and voila…..you have vacated!
No matter your preference for vacationing…JUST DO IT. Your body will thank you later.
It’s Glam Libation Thursday and of course the Glam Society wants to keep you in the know about all things FAB. As the Glam Society counts down to the most highly anticipated movie release for every fashionista- Sex and the City2… we thought it not robbery to showcase one of our favorite local haunts that allows us to channel our inner Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte and Samantha!
The W hotels are widely known for their sexiness; featuring great culinary delights and even better libations and people watching. From the moment you step in the lobby of the hotel, you are greeted with opulence and hauteness… Take the elevator up to the Point of View (POV) roof top bar, and you will be treated to one of the greatest views of our nation’s capital. The menu features one of my favorite champagne’s SEX, and I am completely in love with the chicken samosas.
Reservations for the POV are highly recommended, so grab your girls, dress sex and the city chic and be inspired by one of the most fabulous bars in DC!!
With common phrases like “hump day Wednesday” and TGIF (Thank Goodness It’s Friday) it is not uncommon for people to reflect upon Monday as the dreadful beginning to another work week. Well, Glami’s we have all felt this way about Mondays, however in maintaining an optimistic attitude, for those who are employed, it is important to be humbled by the notion that you still have employment.
The workplace for some derives the most stressfulsituations as there are time lines, deadlines, and protocols to be followed.I invite you to try some wellness tips in your workplace that may remove some of the stress at work or at least provide a detour.
1)Eat Breakfast-this provides a quick metabolism jumpstart to help sustain a demanding day.
2)Take trips to the water cooler-I know the caffeine is calling, but you should aim to obtain energy from food options. Walking to get water will allow for exercise and some down time to relax your mind.
3)Get outside of the office for lunch-being cooped up all the time can have negative effects. If you bring your lunch, opt to eat outdoors. You can also eat lunch with a friend that works at another location. Change the scene it helps!
4)Take advantage of company opportunities-some companies provide wellness programs, gym membership discounts, training opportunities (external to required trainings relative to your position), or tuition assistance. Utilizing any of the above can help you loosen up regarding your workplace.
5)Suggest a quiet room or space where you work-the room could be small but accessible for all employees to use. I have seen offices include a massage cover for a chair as their quiet room. Bring in a few floor pillows, a small stereo with a calming cd, and let the peace begin. This is also a great place to practice some breathing techniques.
6)Listen to music-Music motivates! Pop in your favorite cd, click on an internet radio provider, Ipod, or MP3 player and get to work.
7)Separate your time-Leave work at work as it will be there tomorrow! If you work for yourself, designate a time to end for the day and enjoy some of your favorite things to do.
Live Well GLAMI’S!
Friday, May 14, 2010
FOODIES LOVE FRIDAY
By: Stacie Forrest
Okay so I am way off of my game-and I so apologize. Sometimes, life gets in the front seat and all the secondary stuff gets in the trunk. I promise to do my very best to make sure that I post at least weekly about what’s new and fabulous in food. So, without further ado-let me tell you about what I am loving this week.
THE GRILLED CHEESE COMPANY The history of the grilled cheese sandwich is as long and storied as the country that we live in; and its history has made its way into the lives of billions of people. I recently read an article that claimed that grilled cheese sandwiches were making a comeback, which completely confused me because, I never knew it left. I can’t think of a time when I wasn’t in the mood for a gooey grilled cheese sandwich; two pieces of good hearty bread, slathered in butter with some of my favorite cheeses sandwiched between the two slices. Heaven! And what about the days when I’m ready to kick it up a notch? Thick sliced bacon or yummy Tuscan ham, portabella, maybe a slice of tomato to add to the Vermont cheddar, fontina or Land O Lakes American?
I am so smiling right now.
During award season, Wolfgang Puck served little grilled cheese sandwiches at the Vanity Fair soiree. At a recent party at the Tenjune club in the NYC, Kim, Khloe and Kourtney Kardashian munched on these little delights until the wee hours of the morning. Just last night, my 15 year old told me that he wanted grilled cheese and fries instead of the barbequed chicken, macaroni and cheese and green beans that I made. Feigning frustration-I had the same!!!
So my love for grilled cheese sandwiches was refreshed when I learned that a couple of gentlemen decided to set up a shop dedicated to the grilled cheese sandwich. The Grilled Cheese Company is housed in a small unassuming edifice in Catonsville and boy is it terrific! These guys have learned what works; we want it simple, we want it fast and we want it good and this joint aims to please on every level. Try their crabby melt, or the chicken cordon bleu or the wonderful portabella! I warn you that the seating and space is very limited…but don’t let that sway you. I am a believer that if the line is extended OUTSIDE THE DOOR, then there must be something going on behind that counter. I won’t stop until I have tried every last offering and even after that-I still won’t stop. And neither will you!
Vicky Johnson, resident Glami and event designer extraordinaire, recently whisked her hubby off for an adventure filled weekend to Panama – and he didn’t know a thing about it…how awesome is that??? But, before they left for parts unknown, Vicky took her main man to famed D.C. eatery Vidalia. Chef Jeffrey Buben’s contemporary American treasure is in the heart of downtown D.C. His concept has charmed the culinary enthusiasts with a simple but refined selection of course offerings that has kept this restaurant in the mainstream.
Earlier this year, Vidalia added the Vidalia 24 feature to the menu which Vicky dubs the “best buy in the Mid-Atlantic area because all of the drinks are included.” When describing her experience she used words like, “phenomenal” “amazing” “nothing like she’s ever experienced.” I would be remiss as a foodie to not give this spot honorable mention.
So intrigued with what she told me, I decided to take my research a bit further. I recently spoke with special events coordinator of Vidalia, Jacqueline Herrera, who told me that bookings are now over a month in advance and since this new concept took shape, Vidalia is experiencing a new surge in popularity.
Vidalia 24 is held on Friday and Saturday evenings and service starts promptly at 7:30 p.m. For $150 per person, you are served a whopping 24 eclectic courses, each paired with a suggested wine or spirit. There is very limited space and the restaurant will only take 8 reservations for each. Chef de Cuisine R.J. Cooper designs the meal just 24 hours prior; ensuring that each ingredient is the freshest, that the flavors are executed to the letter and that each plate exudes the confidence and style of the Vidalia brand.
Described by Vicky as a “Top Chef” experience; dishes are prepared and plated tableside with a brief description of the chef’s interpretation. Everyone has a chance to provide commentary on what they feel about each dish. Top Chef’s own Tom Collichio was in attendance as well as Paul Kahan, Owner and Executive Chef of Chicago eatery The Publican-so needless to say, wonderful food and insightful dialogue share the spotlight at Vidalia.
In a few weeks, I plan on making my way to Vidalia to experience this culinary delight myself. It appears that people from as far as Ohio are driving in for the Vidalia experience and I need to make sure that I can get in where I can fit in! I will definitely keep you posted.
Wine in the Woods is the official beginning of the summer wine and festival season. This weekend, Symphony Woods in Columbia, MD will play host to some of Maryland’s most prominent vineyards and wineries. In addition to being able to sample some of the finest libations Maryland has to offer, there are also food vendors, and an educational component which includes an understanding of Maryland varietals, and a guide to understand how to appropriately taste wine.
Grab your friends, pack a picnic basket and prepare to have an afternoon of great foodie fun!
Here’s an overview of how to appropriately taste wine from the Wine in The Woods Website:
Wine Tasting 101 • See - Hold the glass up at a slight angle and observe the wine’s brilliance and color. • Swirl - Hold the base firmly on the table and give it a good swirl. This gets oxygen to the wine and helps it to “open up.” • Smell - You’re checking to make sure the wine has not “turned” or been stored improperly. Smell for odors reminiscent of musty cardboard or vinegar, which means the wine is flawed and should be replaced. Don’t send back a wine just because you don’t like it. If the wine smells off to you, have your server smell it and they should happily replace it - but generally the wine will be just fine. • Sip - Take a sip and enjoy!
This week’s GLAM libation honors Mama! Mothers Day is certainly a time ensure that pampering is part of the equation. For our Mama Glamis, hopefully flowers, gifts, and a GLAM certified brunch are on your agenda for this Sunday. Whether you are celebrating at home, or going out to one of your favorite haunts, consider wooing your mother (or yourself!) with a pre-brunch Mom-osa!
Motherly Love Mom-osa Recipe Courtesy of Wild Hibiscus Ingredients: • 1 Wild Hibiscus Flower • 1 oz St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur • 1 oz Pink Grapefruit Juice • 1/2 oz Wild Hibiscus Syrup • 5 oz Dry Sparkling Wine
So the question for the weekend is what are you doing for your mother for mother’s day?
Many may say that they celebrate their mother all year , others may embrace family traditions. As I reflect upon this time last year, my mother was contemplating the same thoughts, but this year it is different. My mother is dealing with the fact that this year she will be celebrating mother’s day without her mother. There are many who are facing the same situation. Today’s wellness message is dedicated to help those who are healing from the loss of a mother, especially during this time.
First, heal with favorite activities…
Read her favorite book, volunteer for her favorite charity, visit with family or friends, simply share stories about your mom, eat at her favorite restaurant, cook her favorite meal, or participate in a hobby that reminds you of your mom's passion.
Remember your mom’s spirit…
As much at this may be hard for some, visit your mother’s grave and plan a fun activity! Leave flowers with little gifts, homemade trinkets, or cards tucked inside the planter.
Create New Traditions…
The first mother’s day without your mom will be difficult, but go through your grief. As each mother’s day comes around grief may still be a part of your healing. Think of mother’s day as a connection day! Create new traditions to do each year…take a family photo in honor of your mother, take a vacation to your mother’s favorite place, plant a tree in memory of your mother.
Understand that whether your mother is living or deceased, near or far, or whether you have a close relationship or distant relationship…she is still to be honored because she chose life and life was you!
The celebs were out last night in looks that were retro, reminiscent and romantic. This year's "American Woman" theme was resplendent in glamour and fabulousness-beautiful draping, ethereal silhouettes, and dramatic beadwork that can only be described as red carpet worthy.
But before we get to WHO was wearing WHAT, let’s start off with a little bit of history, shall we?
The Museum of Costume Art was founded by couturiers Aline Bernstein and Irene Lewisohn. In 1937 these two style mavens merged with the Metropolitan Museum of Art and became the Costume Institute department. Today, the collection contains more than 80,000 costumes and accessories. The Institute was once housed in what was known as the "Basement" area of the Met because it was downstairs at the bottom of the Met facility; however, realizing that the integrity of the collection could be compromised, the displays were removed. Instead of being shown in one consistent location, the Met holds two separate showings in the Met’s galleries using ensembles from its collection, with each showing focused on a specific designer or theme; taking inspiration from designers, Chanel and Gianni Versace and moving themes such as “Models as Muses” and “Superheroes.” The Costume Institute's annual Benefit Gala, co-chaired by Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, is an extremely popular, if not exclusive event in the fashion world; this year the 700 available tickets started at $8,500 per person and this year the event was hosted by the legendary Vogue editor in chief along with talk show queen-Oprah Winfrey.
So, without further ado-let's take a look at the looks that graced the gala at the Met:
Kerry Washington - do I need to say a word? Nope! But I have to: STUNNING!!!! Ms. Washington is wearing Thakoon for Gap.
So why do you suppose Nicole Ritchie chose to come as though she were auditioning for the role of Morticia meets Elvira on the Adam's Family? She is capable of doing so much better. I am a huge fan of Michael Kors, but I am not a fan of how this was put together here.
Mary J. Blige looks like she could be on display at a funeral parlor. J. Mendel is usually spot on as is Ms. Blige's forward thinking about fashion and what works for her frame. This doesn't make me smile.
Poor Maggie looks as though she she fell asleep in this Louis Vuitton, woke up, put on some shoes and voila! An evening at the Met. No matter what this child does, she doesn't seem to do it the right way. For shame, for shame, for shame.
As is the normal practice, Ms. Tyler looks out of place and clueless in Stella McCartney.
Kirsten Dunst (heavy, heavy sigh)....I don't even feel like telling you who the designer is-it's a waste of time.
Now, I think I love the nude tones of this timeless look on Kate Hudson. Stella McCartney created a seamless cohesive ensemble and her look is flawless.
Kate Bosworth looked amazing in this simple but elegantly shaped Valentino. I love the color!
The Good Wife is one of the evening's best dressed. Julianna Margulies' Narcisco Rodriguez basic black column is smart, polished and classic.
Michael Kors poured his design on Brooke Shields and she looks fabulous. She looks like she's wearing liquid gold!
Why did Ms. Dawson do this to herself? She looks like something out of Hello Dolly...not crazy about the cut or the color.
I fell in love with the simplicity of Sarah Jessica Parker’s peachy pleated Halston gown
Eva Mendes is a fashion icon and this Dolce and Gabbana look is haute! I love the print!
Jessica Alba was breathtaking in a mauve draped sensation by Sophie Theallet for Gap.
Stained Glass Window anyone? After September, the ones at New Psalmist Baptist Church will be available for your use and wear.
Poor Ms. Emma looks like she used the housekeeper's cleaning rags for this get up.
So what's on display here? Christina Hendrick's dress or the boobs that double as a table? This L'Wren Scott dress is not her finest hour.
I'm not quite sure what's going on here- are you? Oh its Chloe Sevigny. That explains it.
I don’t think that there were too many times that Marion Cottillard didn’t stop traffic and this amazing beaded wonder was so simple in its shape and form, but out of this world in it’s splendor.
There are some designers that are consistent and true to who they are…you can take one look at a design and without batting an eye can tell who the artist was. That’s how I feel about Oscar de la Renta. I love this dress and the color-but I'm not convinced thatthis dress is for Ms. Winfrey. What do you think?
Anne Hathaway has truly matured into a beautiful young woman and her fashion sense is an indication of that very fact. She looked like a princess in this outstanding confection from Valentino.
Who doesn’t love a Navy column? I can’t think of a soul-and I also can’t think of anyone who would disagree that Zoe Saldana hit the ball out of the park with this sensational Calvin Klein stunner.
Giselle Bundchen is not a favorite of mine-but this edgy look gets a thumbs up from me. She in Alexander Wang and hubby Tom Brady in Tom Ford for Gucci. Magnificent!
I love the simple and clean lines of Diane Kruger’s white jersey Calvin Klein’s long- sleeved column. NOTE: Do not try this at home if you do not have the proper undergarments to pull this off.I REPEAT: DO NOT TRY THIS AT HOME!!!
Ahhh youth!!!! Blake Lively's look is playful, young and fresh in this frilly frock from Marchesa. And yet another note: The over 50 and unaware of the age limitations on fashion need not apply.
Camilla Belle is really beautiful. Her look is simple but effective in this crimson Jason Wu design.
.jpg)
.JPG)
