Listening Now: 90's Throwback Playlist

This past weekend, Nick and I met up with Wes and Danielle  at The Flying Monkey for some drinks. Flying Monkey has a TouchTunes jukebox, and I have the TouchTunes app-- the perfect combo for a 90s throwback night.

The playlist (and we were kinda monopolizing the jukebox here-- sorry) included the following:
1. Kiss - Prince
2. The Sign - Ace of Base
3. Tennessee - Arrested Development
4. Boombastic - Shaggy
5. It's Tricky - Run DMC
6. I Got 5 On It - Luniz
7. Too Close - Next
8. Return of the Mack - Mark Morrisson
9. Pony - Ginuwine
10. This is How We Do It - Montell Jordan
11. Whoomp! (There It Is) - Tag Team
12. Regulate - Warren G
13. Set Adrift on Memory Bliss - P.M. Dawn
14. Push It - Salt-N-Pepa
15. Ditty - Paperboy
16. Gangsta's Paradise - Coolio

Yeah, we were there a while…..

Anyway, if 90's music is your thing, on May 3, 2014, MOCA is hosting a 90/90s Gay Games Dance Party to celebrate the 90 day countdown to the 2014 Gay Games! More information including a link to purchase tickets available here! I will definitely be there with my dancing shoes on!!

What are some of your favorite jukebox tunes? Please share!! 

Rock the CATWALK (And a Giveaway)

One of the things I love MOST about Cleveland is how easy it is to get involved in the community- from volunteering for various organizations or joining a board, or being a part of a community development group-- the opportunities exist for anyone who wants to give back and get involved. If you don't have the time available to commit to something on a regular schedule, there is always the option to give back merely by attending a FABULOUS, FUN event. Rock the CATWALK is exactly one such event.

Hosted by The Women's Leadership Council of United Way of Greater Cleveland, this event is a fashion show, showcasing next season's hottest fashions from local boutiques and designers. Not only that, but the event also includes cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, and a silent auction with the opportunity to bid on items such as a Vitamix (and we all know how much I LURVE mine), A Gibson guitar, 12x$100 gift cards to Cleveland area restaurants, vacation packages to warmer climes, and the list continues…. And just in case this wasn't enough, it is being held at one of my most FAVORITE spots in Cleveland- the Atrium at Cleveland Museum of Art. If you're interested in being a part of this event, here are the details:

When: Thursday May 1, 2014 at 6:30 pm

Where: Cleveland Museum of Art

How: Tickets available here 

If you would like to take a look at some pictures from last year's event attended by over 450 people, you can do so here.

Now for the REALLY fun part. You could win TWO general admission tickets to the event by tweeting the following:

"I want to win tickets to Rock the CATWALK @UnitedWayCLE via @cleshopaholic http://goo.gl/LBt011 #UnitedForFashion" 

You may tweet once a day for additional entries!

Follow @UnitedWayCLE and leave me a comment saying you did so for one additional entry. Please make sure you leave your contact info (email/twitter handle etc) so I can reach you in the event you are picked as the winner.

Seriously, what could be more fun than giving back with fashion?! Good luck to all who enter!!! Contest ends at midnight March 30th, 2014, with the winner announced March 31st, 2014. 

Disclosure: I am receiving a pair of tickets to attend Rock the CATWALK and blog about the event. I have also received a pair of tickets to giveaway to a reader. As always, all opinions are 100% my own! 

Shopping Events Happening This Weekend

Happy Hump Day all!! If you're anything like me, you will have already started planning your weekend. And as with most weekends, there are some super fun events happening in Cleveland, although I'm going to focus on the ones that have to do with shopping!

On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, The Cleveland Flea is hosting a series of events at the Slovenian National Home at 6417 St. Clair Ave. The Sneak Peek & Meet the Makers Party (where you get to shop pre-sale) is happening Friday. This is a ticketed event, and you can buy tickets here. Saturday and Sunday is your opportunity to buy gifts and yummy food stuff from 10:00 am- 6:00 pm! I've been to a number of Cleveland Flea events and they are SO MUCH FUN! The food is always delicious, so go hungry! And you can be sure that you will find some really unique stuff.

Also this Friday from 5-9 pm and Saturday from 11-5 pm, Beachcliff Market Square is hosting a pop-up shop for Stash Style, a super cute vintage traveling store! Owner Shannon always has adorable, unique stuff for sale, as you can see from her instagram pic below!

And last but certainly not least, Beachwood Place plays host to the 5th Annual Compassion from Fashion Event to benefit The Gathering Place and UH Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital. Tickets are $25 presale and $30 at the door, and you can buy tickets and see more information here. Essentially, your ticket buys you a special bracelet which gets you exclusive discounts. I have been to this event a number of times, and you really do get your money's worth AND you're supporting two great causes! Some of the discounts include

- 40% off sweaters at Banana Republic

- 10% off at Brigade

- 25% off at Coach

- 15% off at Kate Spade New York

- 25% of Madewell with a purchase of $25 or more

- 20% off at Moochie & Co, just to name a few…

The last time I attended this event, I got most of my Christmas shopping done well in advance of Black Friday! It was GREAT!!

I hope you plan to be out and about this weekend, and maybe I will run into you (obviously not literally. That would be uncomfortable).

Clambake for a Cause

As you know, from time to time, I use my blog to advocate for an organization that is very near and dear to my heart, Secondhand Mutts. I have been a Board Member for Secondhand Mutts since 2011, but have been involved with the rescue as a volunteer essentially since we brought Otto home in 2008. Since that time, Secondhand Mutts has grown tremendously! What I am most proud of as Board Member is that Secondhand Mutts has never shied away from the difficult cases, the overlooked and unwanted dogs.  Ruby was one such story.

Ruby came to Secondhand Mutts blind from diabetes. Through our incredible foster network, we were able to find her a foster home while we assessed her medical issues. Once we found out that her vision-loss was reversible, we decided that we were absolutely going to do everything in our power to restore it! A few weeks ago, Ruby underwent eye surgery, and has now successfully regained vision. In even better news, her foster mom fell so in love that she decided to formally adopt Ruby. That said, Ruby must remain on a daily regimen of insulin and eye drops for the rest of her life. All told, Ruby's rescue cost over $3,500 and she is worth every. singly. penny. I mean, look at this face!

In any case, to defray some of the cost of Ruby's care, and to honor her restored eyesight, Secondhand Mutts is hosting a clambake on October 5th. A single ticket is $45 and includes a clam and chicken dinner, and unlimited beer, wine and soda. Couples can enjoy two tickets for $80! If you're not into clams and just want to drink, you can buy drink-only tickets for $20. To see all the ticket options, and to buy tickets, please go HERE. There will be no tickets sold on site, so these are presale only!

While this is not a dog-friendly event, Ruby will be making a guest appearance to say hello and give thank-you kisses. The clambake is being held at the Pavilion of the West Side Irish American Club which is a covered outdoor facility. So, dress appropriately!!

As a side note, one of my favorite things about clambakes is the opportunity to tap into my outdoor fall wardrobe: skinny jeans, boots, cozy sweater, maybe a puffy vest....

I hope you will attend. Nick and I will definitely be there to support the cause, and I would love to see you in person!! XO

Spin for Strays III and More Secondhand Mutts Events

On April 27th, psycle played host to the Third Annual Spin for Strays to benefit Secondhand Mutts! This was, by far, the most successful Spin for Strays yet-- we sweated, we had fun, and we raised over $1,000 to benefit the pups!! None of this could have been possible without the support of dynamic duo Jenn and Scott of pscyle, and all the hardworking, generous and supportive psyclists who rode that day!

After 60 minutes of sweat, we were joined for cuddles by Secondhand Mutts Splotch and Muddy while the humans enjoyed some well-earned adult beverages.

Brooke (teaches Wednesday and Saturday), Kyle, and Alana

So sweaty! Alana, Colleen and Jenn C (teaches Sunday)

Back: Brooke, Kyle, Jenn, Jenn C, Scott

Front: Splotch, Muddy, Alana & Colleen

Best news of all, both pups, Splotch and Muddy have subsequently been adopted!!

Meghan getting kisses from Muddy

A very excited Splotch

If you're bummed that you missed this great event, there's no need to worry!

On Wednesday June 12th, Around the Corner in Lakewood plays host to yet another fun Secondhand Mutts event. This event is targeted at dog loving singles, and even though there will be no dogs at this event, it may be the perfect opportunity to make a new, non-furry friend. The event runs from 6:00 pm- 8:00 pm, and tickets are $20 in advance ($25 at the door). Each ticket gets you light appetizers, beer, and the opportunity to mingle with other singles in a very low pressure, easy going atmosphere. We will have some conversation starters if you get tongue tied, and of course, you can always just ask the person you fancy about their dog! Advance tickets are available right here. While I will not be participating as a single (duh) in the event, I will be there helping coordinate, so I hope to see you there!!!

NOTE: THE 6/12/13 EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED.

The THIRD Annual Spin for Strays!! Sign up details!!

My support for Secondhand Mutts and my love for pscyle have both been very well documented on this blog. For the past two years, Jenn and Scott Sommers, owners of pscyle, have been amazing champions and supporters of Secondhand Mutts by hosting the annual Spin for Strays fundraiser.

The past two years have been an incredible success, and I hope that this year is no exception. We have changed a few things this year though-- unlike in prior years, the THIRD ANNUAL SPIN FOR STRAYS is being held on a Saturday. This way, no one has to rush in from work, and it doesn't interfere with Friday Happy Hour. We've also timed it so that it doesn't impede Saturday naps, or Saturday evening plans, and still gives riders the opportunity to stick around for a post-ride adult beverage!

The details!
When: Saturday, April 27th, at 4 pm

Where: pscyle: 24945 Detroit Road (between Clague and Columbia Rd. exits on I-90)

Why: This is a donation only ride, with a suggested donation of $15. All proceeds from the event go directly to support the pups at Secondhand Mutts. Also, you will burn a boatload of calories (between 500-800 on average), get sweaty, and have a LOT OF FUN!!!

Who: EVERYONE!!! This is an all levels ride and no prior spin experience is necessary. Its a great time to try spinning if you've never been before, and a ride at pscyle is very different from a lot of other spin classes around town. For one, you ride to the beat of the music... and the music? IS AWESOME!! Jenn will have an incredible and energizing playlist to guide you on your ride. If you've ever wished you were in NYC or LA to experience the celeb-favorite SoulCycle, a psycle class will give you a good inkling of what to expect.

How: sign up here. (alternatively go to pscyletherapy.com, click on schedule, and then click on events to sign up). There are ONLY 32 bikes, so make sure you reserve yours today.


Last year was SUCH a blast--- take a look at some of the pics:

Getting our ride on!

Meeting adoptable pups prior to the ride

Bloggers on bikes

You can view more pictures here.

So, I hope that you join me for this incredible event. Its only an hour of your time, and really, such an incredible cause. Secondhand Mutts has a lot of great dogs available for adoption right now, and while the website is being revamped, you can find them all on petfinder! You can also follow Secondhand Mutts on Facebook for up-to-date info! Hope to see you there!! 

XO 

We Jumped Back Two Spaces (The JBB 2013 recap)

This year was my third consecutive year in attendance of Jump Back Ball at PlayhouseSquare. Each year, Jump Back Ball teaches me important lessons.
In 2011 I learned: Don't drink gin all night. Nothing good will come of it.
In 2012 I learned: Don't wear heels higher than 3 inches. Platforms are great.
In 2013 I learned: NEVER wear a dress with a train.

With that, let's get to the bit that everyone is waiting for, the pictures....

This series was taken on stage, which was decorated in the theme of Candyland. I HATE using flash, so these pictures were taken in the natural light of the theatre...

The stage....

With Jessika, Michelle, and Allison

Sean and Matt (possibly the best dressed couple of the night), Jessika and Dave, your truly with N (I LOVE that he rocked a polka dot shirt)

Jen and Michelle 

L to R: (sorry, I don't know who this is!), Lisa, Tabitha, and Michelle

With Ginenne and Alexa 

Jessika, Lindsay, Joe G, Sean and Matt 

At some point N decided to try on Sean's glasses. I think he looks very dapper!!

For those who are curious, I wore an ABS dress, acquired on bluefly.com. My little clutch came  from India, and I'm wearing the earrings I wore when N and I got married. My bracelet is Prabal Gurung for Target, and even though you can barely see it, I'm wearing the Rebecca Minkoff pave ring that I first blogged about here.

Overall, it was yet another FABULOUS night at Playhouse Square. Major dress trends were sequins (LOTS AND LOTS OF SPARKLES!!), black and red. There were a few people in costume, but I would say that of the 3 years I've attended, this year probably had the fewest people who dressed the theme. Makeup wise, there were some great bold lips, and of course, no shortage of false eyelashes (myself included).



And at the end of the night, with a good buzz, and tired feet, N and I cabbed it home to this....

Can't wait to do this all over again next year!!!!!


Disclosure: As a blogger for Jump Back Ball I received one complimentary ticket to attend the event, and purchased a second one for N. As always, all opinions are my own. 

Smooches & Pooches

Right around Valentine's Day each year, Secondhand Mutts partners up with another animal rescue to host its annual bowling event: Smooches and Pooches held at Madison Square Lanes. This year, \ Secondhand Mutts has partnered with The Sanctuary for Senior Dogs. Sanctuary shares a very special place in my heart because one of the Sanctuary Volunteers (a wonderful woman named Elaine) was Clair's foster mom before we got her!!

If you enjoy bowling, and/or pooches, you can be a part of this wonderful event on Friday, February 15th, 2013, by putting together a team of 4 to 6 people to bowl your heart out! Admission/Donation per person is $20 and that includes bowling, shoes, pizza, sweet treats and a very fun time! Of course, there will be adoptable dogs on site, all of whom will be very willing to give you smooches!!!

The doors open at 6:30 PM, the first game is at 7 PM, there wil be an intermission at 9 PM and the next game starts at 9:30 PM.

Registration is required in advance...a limited number of lanes will be available until they are sold out - first come, first serve. Note that this is a child-friendly event, so bring your kids if you like!!

REGISTRATION FORM LINK:
http://fs25.formsite.com/secondhandmutts/form5/index.html

You may also request a registration form via email by contacting Secondhand Mutts at rescue@secondhandmutts.org. You may then fax your completed registration form to 216-373-4902.

Madison Square Lanes is located in Lakewood just west of Warren Road where Westwood/Hilliard and Madison intersect. Parking is available in the bowling alley lot off Hilliard, the lot off Madison and the church lot off Rosewood Avenue one street west of Westwood. Madison Square Lanes is CASH ONLY for the bar and snack bar. An ATM is on site.

I have been to this event for the past three years and I can attest that it is a BLAST!!!!

Spread the love...please share!

Pancakes for Pooches: The 4th Annual Pancake Barkfeast

So, if you've been following this blog for some time, then you know that from time to time, I use this as a platform to promote an organization that means a great deal to me: Secondhand Mutts. Secondhand Mutts has been around since 2006, and over the years has done many many wonderful things for neglected and ignored dogs, saving them from death row and finding them new homes. In 2012, Secondhand Mutts rescued 115 dogs, and by the end of the year, had placed 105, including two dogs that were heartworm positive- Sookie and Rollo

Sookie (look at that underbite!!!! SO CUTE!)

Rollo-- look how happy he is to be safe!!

Left untreated, heartworm is extremely dangerous and can kill dogs. If your dog is heartworm positive, the cost to treat your dog can range from between $500-$700.  In contrast, it costs $7-$10 to give your dog their monthly preventative medication. Secondhand Mutts takes in 2-4 heartworm positive dogs into their program each year, and must rely on having a committed foster home to let the dogs recover in a calm, peaceful environment. The dog must stay inactive for up to a month, and may have to have a second treatment after that! I don't know about you, but there's no way that my dogs could be inactive for that long, so I'm religious about giving them their heartworm preventative year-round (I don't take winters off even though there are no mosquitos. With the abnormally warm/uneven winters we've had, its just not worth the risk).

So, given the cost to treat heartworm positive dogs in their program, Secondhand Mutts hosts an annual pancake breakfast to not only treat heartworm positive dogs, but also raise awareness of heartworm and its prevention.

This year's event is at Pilgrim Church in Tremont on Saturday, Feb 2, 2013. $12 buys you buttermilk/chocolate chip pancakes, sausage, bacon, coffee and orange juice. There is also a vegetarian sausage option for those who are interested.

I hope you will consider attending and supporting this worthy cause. Please RSVP on Facebook so Secondhand Mutts can properly anticipate attendance and food buying. I will certainly be there on Saturday, and hope to see you there too!! XO

We sweated like dogs... or is it pigs?

I'm going to take a little moment and just state, for the record, that I'm so incredibly thankful and appreciative for all my social media friends that have become friends IRL over the past two years! Of course we have a great time hanging out together, but it makes me feel all fuzzy when they come out to support things that mean as much to me as animal rescue, and boy did they come out to support Secondhand Mutts this past Friday. The best part was that not only was it my social media friends, but also my spin friends who made it an incredible evening, and helped  raise funds for some very worthy puppies. If you don't believe me, here's the proof!

Where all the fun happens. A HUGE thank you and so much love to Jenn and Scott at psycle for generously hosting the event and for supporting Secondhand Mutts! 

Some of our Secondhand Mutts- Chester and Debo

The puff stuff! Cocoa Puff lounging and enjoying the attention

Kimi got kissed!! By Roscoe!

The social media corner: 

Top picture Back row L-R: Tabitha, Kimi, Heather

Front row L- R: Alana, Suzanne

Lower picture: Jenn (in the bandana) and I (on the far right) joined in

Psyclists, pre-sweat

And then, things got sweaty...

Jenn makes it look so easy... As she always says "I didn't say it would be easy, I said it would be worth it." And. it was...

I want to thank everyone who attended-- thank you so much for driving out and giving up your friday happy hour plans to come ride for the pups!! I hope you had a great time, and I look forward to seeing you again next year!!! 

P.S. If you missed out on this great event, come join SecondhandMutts at Tremont TapHouse on Tuesday, June 12th for yappy hour. This is a dog-friendly event, so leashed dogs are welcome!! I will be there with Otto and Clair!! 

JBB 21 Recap: And we all went down the rabbit hole...

First off, a big thanks to Playhouse Square for choosing me as one of their Jump Back Ball bloggers this year. As you know from previous posts, I received 2 VIP tickets to the event in exchange for blogging about it. All opinions are 100% my own, but in short, I will say I had so much fun that I'm already planning for JBB 22 next year!!!

Now, before I start with the pictures, I have to say, there are many people whose pictures I didn't take, or if I did, they came out too blurry and/or not blog-worthy. So if you're a friend of mine, and your picture does not appear below, please please don't be offended. I loved all of your outfits! And with that, lets get into pictures, because let's face it, that's what you want to see.

The VIP hour (clockwise from top left): Gorgeous Shannon and her mister; the absolutely stunning Michelle (and to think she thought twice about getting that dress!) with @puckingoalie; N in his awesome top hat (he had a pocket watch and monocle) w. a very dapper Jason; and Shannon and I doing our very best prom poses. 

My most favorite dresses of the night (Clockwise from top left): Lisa in vintage (you can't see all the detail on Lisa's dress but the rhinestone detail was gorgeous!) with Michelle in Tadashi Shoji ; Jess (thank you for letting me pressure you into styling your look) in a gorgeous plum Michael Stars dress; Carli in gold BCBG, and Cort in Adrianna Papeli (I loved the color and asymmetrical hemline of this dress- it looked incredible in person, particularly when she moved). 

Other outfits I really liked: Alana with a friend (loved those colors); a group of 4 gorgeous ladies and I loved all their dresses; Cort, Allison, Seanski, and Danielle (sorry for mediocre lighting); and Reshae and Rich. 

One of the big trends of last night was the open back as you can see above.

N and I - I may be more than a little biased, but I think N was the best dressed guy there! The facial hair with the vest and accessories- perfect!!! 

Overall, I had an excellent night, and a not-too-terrible morning! You can be 100% certain that N and I will be back at JBB22- I can't wait to see what theme they come up with!!! I'm hoping to see more color next year ladies!!! 

Brunch for a Great Cause

Happy Hump Day all!! This week is going by too fast, and yet not fast enough. I'm SO ready for the weekend already, especially because I have really great brunch plans for Saturday. Yes, Saturday! Now Sunday is the "real" brunch day, but sometimes you don't feel like cooking for yourself on Saturday either! For this Saturday only, you could eat delicious pancakes (choice of blueberry, chocolate chip and plain) and breakfast meats (sausage! bacon!) for a whopping $12 per person. And while you're enjoying your meal, you would helping a GREAT cause: you'd be helping support two heart worm positive pups at Secondhand Mutts who are receiving treatment as they await their forever homes!

Secondhand Mutts is trying to get to 400 attendees this year, so I really hope you will consider attending. I will be volunteering at the event from 9-11, and will likely be serving food, and I would LOVE to see YOU!!!

Jump Back Ball- How will you wear the theme?

Are you as excited about Jump Back Ball as I am? This year's event is coming up so fast, and I for one, can't wait!! As I've mentioned before,  its some of the best people watching around, and I can't wait to see what everyone wears!!  There really are no rules- cocktail attire is appropriate, but I really hope that women don't take their cues from last night's Golden Globe awards. BOOOORRRINNGGG. Nude dress after nude dress, with far too few flashes of color, the predominant one being blue. I just want to point out that I wore blue at New Year's Eve, so I'm patting myself on the back for effectively being ahead of the trend. LOL


Besides going with a cocktail dress, I thought I might highlight some ways to "wear" this year's Alice in Wonderland/Through the Looking Glass theme with a few dress options.

1. Tweedledum and Tweedledee

Source: bluefly.com via cleshopaholic on Pinterest

2. Queen of Hearts

Source: bluefly.com via cleshopaholic on Pinterest

3. White Rabbit

Source: bluefly.com via cleshopaholic on Pinterest

4. And of course, Alice

Source: bluefly.com via cleshopaholic on Pinterest

If you haven't gotten your tickets yet, there is still time, although tickets are selling fast. I will also have a very special discount code for my readers later this week, so stay tuned!!! 


I'm not planning to wear any of the outfits above (I already have mine), but if you're looking for something to wear and are stumped, feel free to click through the links and get any one of these- with the exception of the white sparkly one (which is around $225), the other dresses are all under $200. 

Disclosure: I'm receiving two tickets to Jump Back Ball in exchange for blogging about the event. As always, all opinions are my own. 

Come for the shopping, stay for the eye-candy

Wow, I can't believe Thanksgiving is NEXT WEEK!!! That time of year is creeping up faster than I can handle, and you know what that means- HOLIDAY SHOPPING!!! Last year, I got a really good head start to my shopping with the Compassion from Fashion event at Beachwood Place, and this Saturday, Beachwood will be playing host to this awesome event for the THIRD straight year.

If you haven't been before, here's what you should expect:
$20 (in advance, $25 at the door) gets you a wrist band that entitles you exclusive fashion discounts at a number of Beachwood Place Stores. If you're one of the first 750 to buy your ticket, you will receive a $10 mall gift card AND a $10 dining certificate to McCormick and Schmick's, making your ticket essentially FREE!! 100% of the proceeds go to The Gathering Place which provides invaluable services for those affected by cancer and their loved ones!

Shopping + a GREAT cause?!? How could this get better??? BUT WAIT, IT DOES!!!
Not only do you get to snack on delicious offerings by Maggiano's Little Italy, but at 7pm, Beachwood plays host to a celebrity fashion show, featuring cancer survivors and local celebs including:

Maureen Kyle

Ryan "Mickey" McLean, from Cosmo's Bachelor of the year 2010 and Bachelorette fame

As hot as Mickey is, I am a married woman, so I'm obviously MOST excited about the shopping. Here's the discounts I WILL be taking advantage of:

BRIGADE: 10% off entire store (N is probably getting some of his Christmas presents from here)

AVEDA: spend $50 get $20 personal blends "purefume"- I need some more hair products, and their hand lotion is a lifesaver in this weather!!

MOOCHIE & Co: 20% off regular priced merchandise- I can't leave the pooches out!! They get Christmas presents too!

BANANA REPUBLIC/THE LIMITED: Need stuff for work

The full list of discounts is available here. You can purchase your tickets here, and if you buy online and use the discount code "266727", you will receive $5 off your ticket price, making it an even better deal for $15!!

So if you want to avoid the Black Friday crowds and get a head-start to the shopping season, I hope you will consider joining me at Beachwood Place this Saturday. Happy shopping all!!

Full disclosure: I received two tickets to this event in exchange for my support via this here blog. As always, all opinions are 100% my own. 

Shopping for a cause...AND, a contest!!!

Hi friends! Hope you had a great Halloween weekend! I had a really fun time, but I'm not going to recap today. Instead, I'm starting off November with something fun: shopping for a cause!! This is a longer-than-normal post, but please bear with me; there's something fun at the end!

From 4 pm- 9 pm on November 20th, Beachwood Place plays host to The Second Annual Compassion From Fashion event, which benefits the Gathering Place. If you're not familiar with the Gathering Place, it is a Cleveland-based organization that provides education and support programs for people who have been diagnosed with cancer, and also for their families, who may not know what to expect or how to deal with the diagnosis of their loved one. Best of all, these services are offered completely free of charge!! I personally know a few people that have used the services of the Gathering Place, and I've heard a lot of positive feedback about the institution. There are two locations in Cleveland; one in Westlake, and the other in Beachwood, so if you, or someone you love has been recently diagnosed with cancer, and is seeking some help, please direct them to the Gathering Place.

In any case, the Compassion From Fashion event is raising much needed funds for the Gathering Place. It's a night of food (catered by Maggiano's- yum!), fashion, and of course, SHOPPING!! For one night only, a number of Beachwood Place retailers will be offering special discounts; Here are some of the deals

American Eagle: 15% off your entire purchase
Caché: Take $25 of any regularly or sale priced item of $125 or more
Calendar Club & Go! The Game: 20% off full priced merchandise!
Cardboard Heroes Sports Stuff: 25% off entire purchase when you show your event bracelet. Purchase a $100 gift card and get a $25 gift card free
Chico’s: Will donate 10% of Saturday sales to The Gathering Place.
Eddie Bauer: 30% off entire purchase!
Express: 15% off your entire purchase!
Guess: Receive 20% off your purchase of $100 or more.
Guess by Marciano: Receive 20% off your purchase of $100 or more.
Jessica McClintock: 20% off purchase! (Excludes fragrance and accessories)
Mario's International Spa: Purchase a $100 Spa Dollar gift card and receive a $50 Spa Dollar Gift Card.
Molly Elaine's Boutique: 15% off any regularly priced item!
Origins: Free deluxe cleanser with any purchase.
Saks Fifth Avenue: Present your wristband to receive 15% off your purchase.
Steve Madden: Receive 15% off all full priced merchandise!
Style Lounge: receive 40% off your entire purchase! Kids can enjoy free face painting from 4-6pm.
Sweet Factory: Buy 1 lb or more of bulk candy and receive ¼ lb free.
The Walking Company: Save 15% off any of our exclusive brands!

Of course, besides supporting a great cause, it gives you the opportunity to get a head start on your holiday shopping (ahem! There are less than 60 days to the big event (or events, depending on how you celebrate)).

So here's how to participate:
1. You can buy tickets here ($20 pre-sale; $25 at the door), OR
2. You can WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS RIGHT HERE ON THIS BLOG!!!

Here's three things you can do to enter:
(a) Leave a comment on this post, listing what retailer you're most excited to visit, and what you're thinking of purchasing
(b) Tweet the following:
I entered @cleshopaholic's Compassion From Fashion contest hosted @BeachwoodPlace to benefit The Gathering Place
(c) Follow @BeachwoodPlace on Twitter

Each of these gets you one entry, so do them all for a maximum of 3 entries! The contest will run Sunday, November 7th, and I (and Clair) will pick a winner on Monday, November 8th. There's one more thing....

In addition to the pair of tickets, you also win a $50 mall gift card!!! Happy shopping, and Good Luck!!


P.S. This contest is sponsored by Beachwood Place and I'm receiving one ticket as compensation. So excited to go to Saks and Style Lounge!

Tuesdays in Tremont (Drinking for a cause)

So, I know I've gushed about the Tremont Farmers Market, but now there's another reason for you to visit Tremont on Tuesdays, especially if you have a well-behaved dog! YAPPY HOUR AT TREMONT TAP HOUSE. I'm very excited that this is going to be a regular feature in June; Otto and I attended one last year, and it was so much fun!! So the series of yappy hours in June will run every Tuesday from 4:00pm-9:00pm. The Tap House will have drink specials (their happy hour preztel with beer cheese dip is fantastic!); a portion of the proceeds will benefit Secondhand Mutts, and you're welcome to bring your well-socialized dog as long as he/she is leashed. If you don't have a dog, but may be in the market for one, you will also have an opportunity to meet the Secondhand Mutt dogs that are available for adoption.

You really should attend. Do it for the puppies.