Thursday, June 21, 2012
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Happening this weekend: Art Fur Animals
So Monday, I made the big mistake of trying to watch an HBO Documentary on dogs. Less than 5 minutes in, and I was a sobbing mess- massive tears. I mean, I'm not even emotional in my REAL life. 10 minutes in I had to change the channel, because I was distraught, and poor Otto was getting really freaked out. This is no surprise to anyone, but I'm a complete sucker for dogs, particularly rescue dogs.
This Friday (June 22nd) from 7-10 pm, smARTspace at 78th Street Studios is hosting the 2012 Art Fur Animals Benefit and Auction. The event benefits Friends of the Cleveland Kennel, which helps take care of and place the 100s of dogs that arrive per month at the Cleveland Kennel. Without Friends, those poor animals would probably end up euthanized. Its a very sad and sobering reality that these volunteers deal with on a daily basis, but they continue to work diligently to find these animals a home wherever possible.
The event features some really awesome art thats available for auction, and of course raffle prizes. There's also complimentary beer and wine. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 day of the event. If you're interested in buying a ticket, you can do so here. N and I will be there supporting this incredible organization, and we hope to see you there too!!
This Friday (June 22nd) from 7-10 pm, smARTspace at 78th Street Studios is hosting the 2012 Art Fur Animals Benefit and Auction. The event benefits Friends of the Cleveland Kennel, which helps take care of and place the 100s of dogs that arrive per month at the Cleveland Kennel. Without Friends, those poor animals would probably end up euthanized. Its a very sad and sobering reality that these volunteers deal with on a daily basis, but they continue to work diligently to find these animals a home wherever possible.
The event features some really awesome art thats available for auction, and of course raffle prizes. There's also complimentary beer and wine. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 day of the event. If you're interested in buying a ticket, you can do so here. N and I will be there supporting this incredible organization, and we hope to see you there too!!
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Tuesday Tunes: Brand new Birdy with Mumford & Sons
I love Birdy (who incidentally, is an English teen with an incredible voice. She did an amazing cover of Bon Iver's Skinny Love- you should definitely check it out). In any case, she's collaborated with another one of my faves Mumford & Sons for a song called Learn me Right, from the soundtrack for the Disney Pixar Movie "Brave". It was just released today, and unfortunately I can't link you to a video on YouTube, but you should definitely take a listen on iTunes!
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Summer Solstice 2012: What to wear...
Its no secret that the Summer Solstice Party at the Cleveland Museum of Art is one of my most favorite events of the summer. Last year, I did a post-mortem on some of my favorite looks from the event, and you can be sure that I will be doing one again this year. However, this year, I also have a preview- a sort of what-to-wear in the event you're attending and are stumped. My favorite part about this post is that all these outfits are from our very own, locally-owned store, Room Service!!
Here are my rules for dressing for this event:
1. The crowd is an all-ages, all-styles crowd. The older crowd tends to be dressed a little more formal- full length ball gowns, taffeta, silk... the younger crowd is more edgy- leather, lace, very much on trend, some music-festival like outfits. In short, anything goes. Wear what you feel comfortable in, because you're going to want to dance. If there's an outfit or look you really want to try but don't have quite the place or occasion to try it, THIS IS IT. Take risks, have fun! You will NOT look out of place no matter what you choose as long as its YOUR style.
2. Shoes: Invariably, you will end up in the grass. Just remember, grass + skinny heels = sinking. I usually wear wedges to this event, but an espadrille or pretty flat would work really well.
3. Accessories: Don't carry a clutch purse- it will just get in your way. This event calls for a wristlet or cross-body-- something that keeps your hands free for hand-holding, drink-holding, picture-taking, tweeting, dancing, etc. Have fun with your jewelry, and if you feel like wearing a hat, GO FOR IT!
A popular choice for women is a dress-- its easy, effortless, comfortable, and looks pretty and dressy without being stuffy. These Room Service dresses are adorable and completely on trend, so if you're at a loss for what to wear to Solstice, or really any event this summer, these are all excellent options!
Here are my rules for dressing for this event:
1. The crowd is an all-ages, all-styles crowd. The older crowd tends to be dressed a little more formal- full length ball gowns, taffeta, silk... the younger crowd is more edgy- leather, lace, very much on trend, some music-festival like outfits. In short, anything goes. Wear what you feel comfortable in, because you're going to want to dance. If there's an outfit or look you really want to try but don't have quite the place or occasion to try it, THIS IS IT. Take risks, have fun! You will NOT look out of place no matter what you choose as long as its YOUR style.
2. Shoes: Invariably, you will end up in the grass. Just remember, grass + skinny heels = sinking. I usually wear wedges to this event, but an espadrille or pretty flat would work really well.
3. Accessories: Don't carry a clutch purse- it will just get in your way. This event calls for a wristlet or cross-body-- something that keeps your hands free for hand-holding, drink-holding, picture-taking, tweeting, dancing, etc. Have fun with your jewelry, and if you feel like wearing a hat, GO FOR IT!
A popular choice for women is a dress-- its easy, effortless, comfortable, and looks pretty and dressy without being stuffy. These Room Service dresses are adorable and completely on trend, so if you're at a loss for what to wear to Solstice, or really any event this summer, these are all excellent options!
I love this blue dress- its flirtatious and sexy with the sheer lace, and has sleeves for those of you who are uncomfortable with your upper arms.
White, is well, white hot this summer. The little yellow detail is unexpected and yet totally adorable!
Tangerine Tango was Pantone's color of the year, so you absolutely cannot go wrong with this color. I might pair this with a red or hot pink shoe and incorporate some subtle color blocking via the shoe as well!
How cute is this print with the little yellow detail?!?!?
Room Service may not be the first store to come to mind for party dresses, but as you can see, they have some really REALLY cute options! I hope you will stop in or call and check them out for yourselves!!
Are you attending the Summer Solstice Party at the Cleveland Museum of Art this year? Are you attending any other Solstice celebrations?
Getting Artsy this Weekend...
So if you've ever wanted to explore some of Cleveland's art fairs or local artists, this is the perfect weekend to do it!!
Starting this Friday through Sunday, Dredgers Union is hosting Made in the 216. If you're not familiar with Made in the 216, here's my review of last year's summer event. This year's event features 60+ vendors. It begins on Friday at 4 with an awesome kick-off party, and continues with a rooftop party at the Greenhouse Tavern.
Saturday is another fun event, but this one is right down the street from me- its the Clifton Arts Fest. Its on Clifton Blvd, between W110th-ish and W 117th. Lots of vendors and as an outdoor event, you can also enjoy what I hope is another gorgeous weekend! Some of the artists at the Clifton Arts Fest are listed here. This is the event where I first discovered Kate Bordine's awesome jewelry, so I'll be on the lookout for some new artists again this year!!
Hope you get out and enjoy at least one of these events this weekend!! Hang in there, it will be Friday soon! XO
Saturday is another fun event, but this one is right down the street from me- its the Clifton Arts Fest. Its on Clifton Blvd, between W110th-ish and W 117th. Lots of vendors and as an outdoor event, you can also enjoy what I hope is another gorgeous weekend! Some of the artists at the Clifton Arts Fest are listed here. This is the event where I first discovered Kate Bordine's awesome jewelry, so I'll be on the lookout for some new artists again this year!!
Hope you get out and enjoy at least one of these events this weekend!! Hang in there, it will be Friday soon! XO
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Tuesday Tunes: Grace Potter and the Nocturnals
Today was the release of the new Grace Potter and the Nocturnals album. I absolutely LUUUURVVEE it so far. I haven't listened to it enough to have a favorite song yet, but the whole album is enjoyable. I saw her live last year at the House of Blues, and she put on a GREAT show. This year, she's visiting Cleveland again on July 29th at Cleveland Browns Stadium, but I will not be attending. Why? Well, she's touring with Kenny Chesney and Tim McGraw, and as varied as my music choices are, I just can't get into Country Music. However, if you are a fan of country and will be attending, I hope you get there early to watch Grace Potter as well!!
Monday, June 11, 2012
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:
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!!
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Zumba
Couple of quick things: (1) If you haven't entered to win a $50 gift card to Beachwood Place, you should totally do it here! Contest ends at noon on Thursday. If you did enter, remember to check back tomorrow evening to see if you won! (2) If you would like to try spinning, this Friday is a great opportunity to start, and support dogs while you're at it. There are only TWO spots left, but even if you do get wait listed, feel free to show up- there's usually a couple of no-shows on a Friday. If you did sign up, but aren't going to make it, please make sure you cancel so others can take your spot!
So, now that I'm done with my quick notices, its onto normal business. I've been trying out some different workouts this week, in an effort to keep things interesting. Saturday was Barre, and today, I tried Zumba at Be Studios, conveniently located a stone's throw from my house. Be Studio typically offers pole dancing classes (these are REALLY challenging), and belly dancing, but started offering Zumba this week. If you're not familiar with Zumba, its effectively coordinated dancing without alcohol. Sorta like jazzercise, but with a more salsa/merengue twist, and no jazz-hands. Needless to say, it requires some coordination, something I have in short supply. Since its the first week, I had the benefit of being the only person in class, so personal Zumba training!!
The good:
1. The music is fun.
2. Not only will you get some cardio, but it also works your brain, because you have to memorize steps!!
3. You will sweat. I was not doing the arm movements (see previously mentioned coordination issues), but I got sweaty. I imagine even more sweat with arm movements.
4. Since I was the only one in class, the instructor Jeanne really broke down the movements. I expect the classes will be a little small until the end of July, so I'm sure she will continue to do this.
5. You can do this barefoot if you like.
The could-be-better:
The studio is super cute, but is in the process of an expansion, which is expected to be completed in mid-July. So, the music comes out of a little boom-box. Being a patron of pscyle, I'm used to BIG BOOMING SOUND COMING OUT OF SOME BIG-ASS SPEAKERS, so the boom box was a little underwhelming. Also, since the Zumba class is being held in a transitional space, there is only one mirror, which makes it a little difficult to see yourself and what the instructor is doing. Again, I expect these issues will be addressed with the renovation, so I'm going to give them a break here.
Since the Zumba class is introductory, Be Studios is offering a Zumba special of 8 classes for $60, including something I'm very excited about- a FREE hoop dance class!!!! Call the studio/facebook them if you're interested in details, or want to try a drop in Zumba class before you commit! And if I can do it, YOU can do it. ( I didn't say anything about doing it well, but I expect I will get better with practice!!)
So, now that I'm done with my quick notices, its onto normal business. I've been trying out some different workouts this week, in an effort to keep things interesting. Saturday was Barre, and today, I tried Zumba at Be Studios, conveniently located a stone's throw from my house. Be Studio typically offers pole dancing classes (these are REALLY challenging), and belly dancing, but started offering Zumba this week. If you're not familiar with Zumba, its effectively coordinated dancing without alcohol. Sorta like jazzercise, but with a more salsa/merengue twist, and no jazz-hands. Needless to say, it requires some coordination, something I have in short supply. Since its the first week, I had the benefit of being the only person in class, so personal Zumba training!!
The good:
1. The music is fun.
2. Not only will you get some cardio, but it also works your brain, because you have to memorize steps!!
3. You will sweat. I was not doing the arm movements (see previously mentioned coordination issues), but I got sweaty. I imagine even more sweat with arm movements.
4. Since I was the only one in class, the instructor Jeanne really broke down the movements. I expect the classes will be a little small until the end of July, so I'm sure she will continue to do this.
5. You can do this barefoot if you like.
The could-be-better:
The studio is super cute, but is in the process of an expansion, which is expected to be completed in mid-July. So, the music comes out of a little boom-box. Being a patron of pscyle, I'm used to BIG BOOMING SOUND COMING OUT OF SOME BIG-ASS SPEAKERS, so the boom box was a little underwhelming. Also, since the Zumba class is being held in a transitional space, there is only one mirror, which makes it a little difficult to see yourself and what the instructor is doing. Again, I expect these issues will be addressed with the renovation, so I'm going to give them a break here.
Since the Zumba class is introductory, Be Studios is offering a Zumba special of 8 classes for $60, including something I'm very excited about- a FREE hoop dance class!!!! Call the studio/facebook them if you're interested in details, or want to try a drop in Zumba class before you commit! And if I can do it, YOU can do it. ( I didn't say anything about doing it well, but I expect I will get better with practice!!)
Monday, June 4, 2012
What better cure for Monday than a contest?
UPDATE: The winner of this contest, as chosen by random.org, is #2 Sarah @Cooker Girl. Sarah, please email me with your full name at cleshopaholic@gmail.com, and your gift certificate will be available to pick up at Guest Services at Beachwood Place tomorrow!! Remember to take your ID!
Hello all! Hope you had a lovely weekend! Mine was quite enjoyable and relaxing- highlights included giggling like a bunch of teen girls at Barre Cleveland with Alana, Suzanne, Michelle, Tabitha, and Jessa, followed by breakfast at Stone Oven and a spot of shopping at Lululemon. N and I attended the Red Hot Chili Peppers concert at the Q Saturday night- what a great show. Its hard to believe they're all close to 50- they're in incredible shape!!!
I'm always so disappointed when the weekend ends, but lucky for you, I have something to make this Monday a little bit better-- GIVEAWAY TIME!! For the second year in a row, Beachwood Place is hosting the Form to Fashion Event. I love this event because (a) it sorta reminds me of Project Runway, but without the crazy materials and insane deadlines, and (b) its a great event for student fashion designers to get some exposure. Its really pretty amazing when you think about the talent we have here in Northeast Ohio- I personally know of two recent graduates from Kent State University's fashion design program who have moved to New York City and have been hired by some pretty FABULOUS, internationally recognized designers!
In any case, this year's Form to Fashion Event gives these young designers an opportunity to design an outfit for Lorelei Shellist to wear as she hosts the La Jolla Fashion Film Festival this summer. The top 10 designs have been picked and are on display at Beachwood Place and also online.
So here are the details- if you would like to enter to win a $50 gift certificate to Beachwood Place, all you need to do is go vote for your favorite design HERE and then leave me a comment letting me know who you voted for!
The contest ends at noon on Thursday June 7th, with the winner announced Thursday evening. The gift card will be held for pickup at Beachwood Place Guest Services- you will need a valid ID to pick up your gift certificate if you are the lucky winner!!
Good luck!!
Disclosure: Beachwood Place is generously providing the $50 gift card for this contest. As always, all opinions are 100% my own!
Hello all! Hope you had a lovely weekend! Mine was quite enjoyable and relaxing- highlights included giggling like a bunch of teen girls at Barre Cleveland with Alana, Suzanne, Michelle, Tabitha, and Jessa, followed by breakfast at Stone Oven and a spot of shopping at Lululemon. N and I attended the Red Hot Chili Peppers concert at the Q Saturday night- what a great show. Its hard to believe they're all close to 50- they're in incredible shape!!!
I'm always so disappointed when the weekend ends, but lucky for you, I have something to make this Monday a little bit better-- GIVEAWAY TIME!! For the second year in a row, Beachwood Place is hosting the Form to Fashion Event. I love this event because (a) it sorta reminds me of Project Runway, but without the crazy materials and insane deadlines, and (b) its a great event for student fashion designers to get some exposure. Its really pretty amazing when you think about the talent we have here in Northeast Ohio- I personally know of two recent graduates from Kent State University's fashion design program who have moved to New York City and have been hired by some pretty FABULOUS, internationally recognized designers!
In any case, this year's Form to Fashion Event gives these young designers an opportunity to design an outfit for Lorelei Shellist to wear as she hosts the La Jolla Fashion Film Festival this summer. The top 10 designs have been picked and are on display at Beachwood Place and also online.
So here are the details- if you would like to enter to win a $50 gift certificate to Beachwood Place, all you need to do is go vote for your favorite design HERE and then leave me a comment letting me know who you voted for!
The contest ends at noon on Thursday June 7th, with the winner announced Thursday evening. The gift card will be held for pickup at Beachwood Place Guest Services- you will need a valid ID to pick up your gift certificate if you are the lucky winner!!
Good luck!!
Disclosure: Beachwood Place is generously providing the $50 gift card for this contest. As always, all opinions are 100% my own!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)