word of mouthmeaningful last minute gifts
Greetings snow bunnies! The holiday rush is on! We both approach the holidays with individual flair– one is the jubilant, mistletoe-donning, jingle bells-playing nymph, while the other observes with a low-key reverence. Nevertheless, we both take this time of year to regain our footing, and focus on what is most important– love. Not too quick to get caught up in the consumer-driven holiday juggernaut known as Chrismakwanhanakkah, we try to dodge the obligatory cheesy gift giving, and really pass on invaluable trinkets of blessings, love, hope and knowledge. So….you waited until the thirteenth hour to pick up those last minute gifts? You could do the mundane, and pick up gift cards, or you could do the extraordinary– and help change the world.
Some of our holiday gifts include in-kind donations to local non-profits serving the HIV/AIDS population, as well as starting small grants for women's health services, or quite possibly donating equipment to an At-Risk Youth center. These become gifts to the world, as well as gifts to your special someone, especially when given in their name. Also, don't forget to purchase mainstream merchandise supporting charitable and organic/grass roots organizations.
Here are some excellent sites to point you in the right direction:
Some of our holiday gifts include in-kind donations to local non-profits serving the HIV/AIDS population, as well as starting small grants for women's health services, or quite possibly donating equipment to an At-Risk Youth center. These become gifts to the world, as well as gifts to your special someone, especially when given in their name. Also, don't forget to purchase mainstream merchandise supporting charitable and organic/grass roots organizations.
Here are some excellent sites to point you in the right direction:
It is so easy to splurge on luxe items this season, and by all means, treat yourself and the ones you love- you definately earned it! Just remember, building your legacy takes more than hard work, ingenuity, and notoriety- it also takes courage, sincerity, and above all- compassion.
Happy Holidays-from us to you, in style and in truth,
Nat & Tricia
Happy Holidays-from us to you, in style and in truth,
Nat & Tricia
life+ style:
keep it simple, sophisticates
Go on, kiss my azz, that’s right kissmyazz.net a delicious nuance to the concept of revenge, will forever revolutionized the 
way one ‘sticks it’ to another. This site guides you through a variety of saccharine gifts ideal for anyone you’d like to seek vengeance upon—-in a humorous, law suit-adverse, fashion. The site features a facile purchase process replete with brazen products in the shape of a perfectly shaped buttocks and fortune cookies labeled—you guessed it—”kiss my azz”. Vengeance seeking customers enjoy quality service in which their design and style preferences are customized to their own specifications. The quirky site features customer testimonials and the online store takes you through an array of biting yet oddly professional options worthy of putting your ever-hating neighbor or former boss, sweetly in check.
All offerings are kept anonymous unless otherwise desired by the sender, a nice touch of mystique if we do say so ourselves.
way one ‘sticks it’ to another. This site guides you through a variety of saccharine gifts ideal for anyone you’d like to seek vengeance upon—-in a humorous, law suit-adverse, fashion. The site features a facile purchase process replete with brazen products in the shape of a perfectly shaped buttocks and fortune cookies labeled—you guessed it—”kiss my azz”. Vengeance seeking customers enjoy quality service in which their design and style preferences are customized to their own specifications. The quirky site features customer testimonials and the online store takes you through an array of biting yet oddly professional options worthy of putting your ever-hating neighbor or former boss, sweetly in check.All offerings are kept anonymous unless otherwise desired by the sender, a nice touch of mystique if we do say so ourselves.
Do look out for…. STICKY NOTES
STICKY NOTES a la Socialight.com challenges social recommendation sites like ePinions and City Search to raise the bar. Sticky Notes act as a real-life, real-time tagging device, allowing people to mark places all over the world that they want to share with others, strictly via mobile phones.
So if you’ve just left sushi bar of your nightmares, or noticed a remarkable number of delicious eye-candy at a new lounge and want to alert others, you would simply text a message on your phone (that has the necessary location-aware software) and your digital Post-It would be attached to the location.
The hottest feature of Stick Notes activates when the next person with the software who ventures by the places you posted, are instantly sent a message with your stamp of approval—or warning. Do check out www.socialight.com. How you share your thoughts with the world just got a little more exclusive…
STICKY NOTES a la Socialight.com challenges social recommendation sites like ePinions and City Search to raise the bar. Sticky Notes act as a real-life, real-time tagging device, allowing people to mark places all over the world that they want to share with others, strictly via mobile phones.
So if you’ve just left sushi bar of your nightmares, or noticed a remarkable number of delicious eye-candy at a new lounge and want to alert others, you would simply text a message on your phone (that has the necessary location-aware software) and your digital Post-It would be attached to the location.
The hottest feature of Stick Notes activates when the next person with the software who ventures by the places you posted, are instantly sent a message with your stamp of approval—or warning. Do check out www.socialight.com. How you share your thoughts with the world just got a little more exclusive…
on the rise: design style invent: The House of Muses invites you in
At first glance she’s a vision; the acclaimed ‘ipod model’ rocking one of the baddest fros to be picked this year. At second glance, (and you will, she’s just one of those women) she’s a fashion visionary carrying a fierce bag channeling a confluence of funk and glamour previously unseen. The design of which, is her own. In manifested talent, Lea Muses transcends from a pretty pose to a bourgeoning handbag designer. Her line of Euro-urban-chic collections (www.thehouseofmuses.com) have commanded the attention of industry notables such as E!’s Robert Verdi to fashion’s ever-avant-garde, Betsey Johnson, a proud La Playa bag owner. “I have been thrilled at the response to my creations by the industry giants and this is just the beginning!” says Muses.
At first glance she’s a vision; the acclaimed ‘ipod model’ rocking one of the baddest fros to be picked this year. At second glance, (and you will, she’s just one of those women) she’s a fashion visionary carrying a fierce bag channeling a confluence of funk and glamour previously unseen. The design of which, is her own. In manifested talent, Lea Muses transcends from a pretty pose to a bourgeoning handbag designer. Her line of Euro-urban-chic collections (www.thehouseofmuses.com) have commanded the attention of industry notables such as E!’s Robert Verdi to fashion’s ever-avant-garde, Betsey Johnson, a proud La Playa bag owner. “I have been thrilled at the response to my creations by the industry giants and this is just the beginning!” says Muses.
Dutch born, Boston bred, Ms.Muses has transcended the trend of model turned entrepreneur seamlessly, and is 
working the buzz with acumen rivaling her captivating catwalk strut. With a much anticipated new collection, Via Vasto, debuting on January 11 in NYC, (think Italian street meets new world sweet). Via Vasto (translates ‘Immense Way’) and was an avenue commonly treaded by Muses when she modeled on location in Milan. The collection balks at function and shape, challenging the owner of this accessory to self-decorate first, apply practical storage of goods, second.
working the buzz with acumen rivaling her captivating catwalk strut. With a much anticipated new collection, Via Vasto, debuting on January 11 in NYC, (think Italian street meets new world sweet). Via Vasto (translates ‘Immense Way’) and was an avenue commonly treaded by Muses when she modeled on location in Milan. The collection balks at function and shape, challenging the owner of this accessory to self-decorate first, apply practical storage of goods, second.Vital Disclaimer: The House of Muses designs are not for fashion’s faint at heart. They imbibe Urban Sophistication, inspired by Milan’s trademark chic style and are not to be worn, but rocked. The coveted valise is yours for holiday gifting.
fashion + beauty: new year’s glamour + decadence
The Occasion: closing out one year and ringing in yet another successful one. The Mood: always glamorous and playful. Whether it’s a get together for 5 or a blowout for 100, the ingredients for your perfect holiday bash are always style and food. Everyone loves a bit of glamour and decadence on New Year's Eve, and if hitting the cold streets, fighting for parking, and fighting off the inebriated sounds like an exhaustive and purposeless way to sweat out your hair, take note- and plan your own sexy soiree.
Key Ingredient: The Drink- Strawberry Lotus
Keep your bar very simple- your signature drink should be a champagne cocktail with a twist. Sparkling wine is a perfect substitute for champagne. For variety, have bottles of red and white wine for your guests
Strawberry Lotus
Sugar Cubes
Fresh Strawberries
Aromatic Bitters
Guy Charlemagne Grand Cru Réserve Brut Champagne NV
Lemon Twist (for garnish)
1. Crush fresh strawberries into paste. Set aside
2.Drop a sugar cube in a champagne glass. Sprinkle with 1-2 dashes of bitters. Place fresh strawberry puree into glass. Top with cold champagne. Add a lemon twist for garnish.
Key Ingredient:
Appetizers- Ring of Fire Shrimp
Baby Fried Artichokes
Start the evening off right with picture perfect appetizers that are pleasing to the eye, palate and wallet.
Ring of Fire Shrimp
We have never been known to follow tradition- try one of our favorites- a spicy take on Shrimp Cocktail (recipe serves 12)
3lb jumbo shrimp, peeled + deveined (tails intact) (Upgrade to prawns- for a supremely decadent feel)
4 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 1/2 tsp Worchestershire sauce
4 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/2 tbsp Cayenne Pepper
4 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
1/3 fresh red onion, finely minced
1/2 cup tomato paste
2 tsp Habenero sauce
2 tbsp H20
Spring mix salad (bag salad is suitable)- for garnish
Sliced lemons- for garnish
1/2 tsp salt + pepper
Martini Glasses- for serving
1.In large pot boil salted water. Reduce heat to low and add shrimp. Cook until pink, aprox 4-5 min. Drain; refrigerate.
2. In separate bowl combine h20, habenero sauce, tomato paste, garlic, onion, slat + pepper, cayenne pepper, fresh lemon juice, and worchestershire sauce. Add in olive oil. Refrigerate.
3. When ready to serve, place spring mix into martini glasses. Place dollop of fire sauce on top of salad. Lay a couple of slices of lemon in glass. Place shrimp over the edges and serve!
20 baby artichokes (about 4 ounces each)
Extra-virgin olive oil, for frying
Salt and freshly ground pepper
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1. With a small, sharp knife, cut off the artichoke stems. Snap off the leaves until you reach the inner leaves. Cut off the top third of the artichokes and trim any tough parts. Quarter the artichokes lengthwise
2. In a medium saucepan, heat 2 inches of olive oil to 300°. Fry the artichokes in the hot oil in batches until richly browned and crisp, about 2 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Transfer the artichokes to small plates or a shallow serving bowl. Sprinkle with the cheese and parsley and serve.
Key Ingredient:
Main Course- Mustard-crusted lamb chops
Ever so delicious, lamb is a fresh take on serving beef, and perfect for single servings.
Mustard-Crusted Lamb Chops
5 cups fresh bread crumbs
1/2 cup mixed chopped parsley, thyme and oregano
6 large cloves of garlic, finely minced
10 racks (6-7 bones in each) baby lamb chops, trimmed
Salt + pepper to taste
2 tbsp Paprika
5 tbsp Olive oil, divided
10 tbsp grain Dijon mustard
2 tbsp Worchestershire sauce
Long platter- for serving
1. Heat oven to 450. In bowl combine bread crumbs, herbs, and garlic. Season lamb with salt, pepper and paprika. Heat 1 tbsp oil and t tbsp butter in skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, (add oil and butter as necessary) sear racks on all sides, let sit 4-5 min.
2. Spread 1 tbsp mustard on each; press bread crumb coating over meaty side of lamb.
3. Roast on baking sheet 15-18 min for medium-rare. Let sit 5-10 min before carving.
Key ingredient:
Dessert- Assortment of delectables
Great dessert is key- and we love heading out to our favorite bakery to pick up a ton of desserts to satisfy all of our guests (our) cravings. Pile store-bought sweets high in unusual glass dishes for drama. Raspberry and lavender macaroons from Payard Patisserie ($26 for 16 cookies; payard.com). Vanilla Classiques meringues from Miss Meringue ($5 for a five-ounce container; missmeringue.com). Rose-flavored Turkish delight from Kalustyan's (from $8 per pound; kalustyans.com). Lemon Dreams cookies from Hannah's Delights ($7 for five ounces; sarahwoods.com).
Key ingredient:
You!
A great host or hostess is only not only as good as the food, but also their own style and atmosphere. You've picked the perfect menu, the music, the decorations, and now pick your perfect holiday look.
Femine: The style should be understated, yet sexi. Done correctly, red always makes the ladies stand out, and simply drips in cofidence, smarts and sex appeal. Keep the face simple, allowing the eye to pop with simple sheer color, and shape definition. Highlight key features on your face with sparkling powder or bronzer- this will accent the vibrant red in your gear.
Masculine: Achieving distinction occurs with diligence of detail. Whether it's the monogrammed hankerschief or fluid, unique color blends (think midnight blue tux complimented with an eggshell shirt). Your attire's success rests upon how well-chosen accents-be they cufflinks or scarves-enhance your finished look with commanding elegance. And if you can manage the fumes, there is no sexier, more distinguished gentleman than the one who handles a cigar (as well as his liquor) with poise and confidence.
...We believe you'll pull it all off with class and grace. Do get your 1999 on, we'll be sure to do the same!
theory of elevation: the upside of failure
'Every failure brings with it the seed of an equivalent success.’
-Napoleon Hill (last quote by him…this month at least, promise)
It’s the middle of yet another challenging day and your mind has escaped to that lovely, familiar place where you’ve materialized into that person you’ve always envisioned you should be. Your state of mind, way of life, friends and the company you keep, all reflect your rightful position unto the coveted pedestal labeled ‘successful.’ You have, unequivocally, arrived…and it feels oh so gooood up there. Just as you begin to relish the idealism that has motivated your progression for as long as you can recall, a creeping shiver of anxiety ripples through your being…That damn ‘fear of failure’ has surfaced once again; diffusing your excitement and making a mockery of your savory dream.
Insert Challenge: Consider failure as a staple within the human experience. Not just something relegated for the loathsome losers. It does not define your life. ---However it will inevitably make an occasional cameo, and when it does; do gather the clues—something within the experience is nurturing your growth and development. When you find this elucidating element; incorporate it within your personal ‘Urban Sophisticate’s Guide to Success’ and continue on.
Failure will be evident within the moments of your life, but hardly surmises it. What is definitive of life is essentially, whatsoever motivates one to be more than the person they are in that [failed] moment.
---So if you are going to fail at something, and probability suggests you will, by God Progressives, fail up—and with full swagger intact!
Besides how prosaic would your platform of success be without an Oprah-worthy redemption story to later speak charismatically of?
'Every failure brings with it the seed of an equivalent success.’
-Napoleon Hill (last quote by him…this month at least, promise)
It’s the middle of yet another challenging day and your mind has escaped to that lovely, familiar place where you’ve materialized into that person you’ve always envisioned you should be. Your state of mind, way of life, friends and the company you keep, all reflect your rightful position unto the coveted pedestal labeled ‘successful.’ You have, unequivocally, arrived…and it feels oh so gooood up there. Just as you begin to relish the idealism that has motivated your progression for as long as you can recall, a creeping shiver of anxiety ripples through your being…That damn ‘fear of failure’ has surfaced once again; diffusing your excitement and making a mockery of your savory dream.
Insert Challenge: Consider failure as a staple within the human experience. Not just something relegated for the loathsome losers. It does not define your life. ---However it will inevitably make an occasional cameo, and when it does; do gather the clues—something within the experience is nurturing your growth and development. When you find this elucidating element; incorporate it within your personal ‘Urban Sophisticate’s Guide to Success’ and continue on.
Failure will be evident within the moments of your life, but hardly surmises it. What is definitive of life is essentially, whatsoever motivates one to be more than the person they are in that [failed] moment.
---So if you are going to fail at something, and probability suggests you will, by God Progressives, fail up—and with full swagger intact!
Besides how prosaic would your platform of success be without an Oprah-worthy redemption story to later speak charismatically of?
on our radar
Chocolate Pink Pastry Café
Chocolatepinkcafe.com
905 Juniper Street NE
Atlanta
404.745.9292
For the dedicated chocoholics! This quaint, yet chic café offers the finest chocolate from Venezuela, Columbia and France in the form of decadent cakes, tarts, cookies, and petits fours
Chocolate Pink Pastry Café
Chocolatepinkcafe.com
905 Juniper Street NE
Atlanta
404.745.9292
For the dedicated chocoholics! This quaint, yet chic café offers the finest chocolate from Venezuela, Columbia and France in the form of decadent cakes, tarts, cookies, and petits fours
All Eyez on Me
Uri Vaknin Gallery
Urivaknin.com
905 Juniper Street NE
Atlanta
404.932.9970
Haute Hip Hop– an exhibition of music, fashion and art fusion. 11.11.06-1.6.07
Uri Vaknin Gallery
Urivaknin.com
905 Juniper Street NE
Atlanta
404.932.9970
Haute Hip Hop– an exhibition of music, fashion and art fusion. 11.11.06-1.6.07
black book January 6—8
9:00AM—6:00PM—Designers and Agents, 601 W. 26th St., NYC January 6—8
9:00AM—6:00PM—Designers and Agents, 601 W. 26th St., NYC
9:00AM—6:00PM—Designers and Agents, 601 W. 26th St., NYC January 6—8
9:00AM—6:00PM—Designers and Agents, 601 W. 26th St., NYC
January 15—18
Hong Kong Fashion Week, Convention & Exhibition Center, Hong Kong
Hong Kong Fashion Week, Convention & Exhibition Center, Hong Kong
Jan 17
5:00PM—8:00PM—Target Presentation of Women's Collection, Location TBA., By invitation.
January 22—25
Paris Fashion Week – Haute Couture, Paris, France
Paris Fashion Week – Haute Couture, Paris, France
January 26—30
Paris Fashion Week – Men’s, Paris, France
Paris Fashion Week – Men’s, Paris, France
February 2—9
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week (New York), New York, New York
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week (New York), New York, New York
February 12—16
London Fashion Week, London, UK
swaggerscopes
Stars are blind– your financial habits shouldn’t be….
Find out how stars influences our spending habits:
Capricorn (dec 22– jan 19)
‘Plastic fantastic’
Best at - Staying out of overdrafts
Worst at - Credit card use
Aquarius (jan 20-feb 18)
‘Above average at almost everything - like their overdrafts’
Best at - Keeping on top of credit cards
Worst at - Staying overdrawn 24-7
Find out how stars influences our spending habits:
Capricorn (dec 22– jan 19)
‘Plastic fantastic’
Best at - Staying out of overdrafts
Worst at - Credit card use
Aquarius (jan 20-feb 18)
‘Above average at almost everything - like their overdrafts’
Best at - Keeping on top of credit cards
Worst at - Staying overdrawn 24-7
Pisces (feb 19– mar 20)
‘As normal as they get - but save more than most ‘
Best at - Putting something away each month
Worst at - Credit cards
Aries (mar 21-apr 19)
‘Bullish about savings, on top of their debts’
Best at - Everything to do with money, they lead every financial indicator.
Worst at - Nothing
Taurus (apr 20– may20)
‘Risk takers, be it on the markets or carrying short-term debt’
Best at - Investing in the stock market
Worst at - Carry large amounts of short-term debt
Gemini (may 21– jun 20)
‘Good with debt, unless it's an overdraft’
Best at - Paying bills on time Worst at - Living in their overdraft
Cancer (jun 21– jul 22)
‘Dodge debts, but save little’ Best at - Avoiding debt
Worst at - Regular saving
Leo (jul 23– aug 22)
‘Love loans, credit cards and overdrafts - but keeping it under control ‘
Best at - Keeping debts manageable
Worst at - Keeping the cards in the wallet
Virgo (aug 23-sep 22)
‘Above average across the board - but with a blind spot for credit cards’
Best at - Keeping current accounts in credit
Worst at - Paying off their credit card in full
Libra (sep 23– oct 22)
‘Underperform across the board - but particularly bad with savings’
Best at - Keeping out of overdrafts
Worst at - Saving
Scorpio (oct 23-nov 21)
‘Keep debts down but just don't plan’
Best at - Keeping debts manageable
Worst at - Putting money away for the future
Sagittarius (nov 22– dec 21)
‘Resilient in hard times, but card happy’
Best at - Surviving in hard times
Worst at - Living in their overdrafts and not saving
‘As normal as they get - but save more than most ‘
Best at - Putting something away each month
Worst at - Credit cards
Aries (mar 21-apr 19)
‘Bullish about savings, on top of their debts’
Best at - Everything to do with money, they lead every financial indicator.
Worst at - Nothing
Taurus (apr 20– may20)
‘Risk takers, be it on the markets or carrying short-term debt’
Best at - Investing in the stock market
Worst at - Carry large amounts of short-term debt
Gemini (may 21– jun 20)
‘Good with debt, unless it's an overdraft’
Best at - Paying bills on time Worst at - Living in their overdraft
Cancer (jun 21– jul 22)
‘Dodge debts, but save little’ Best at - Avoiding debt
Worst at - Regular saving
Leo (jul 23– aug 22)
‘Love loans, credit cards and overdrafts - but keeping it under control ‘
Best at - Keeping debts manageable
Worst at - Keeping the cards in the wallet
Virgo (aug 23-sep 22)
‘Above average across the board - but with a blind spot for credit cards’
Best at - Keeping current accounts in credit
Worst at - Paying off their credit card in full
Libra (sep 23– oct 22)
‘Underperform across the board - but particularly bad with savings’
Best at - Keeping out of overdrafts
Worst at - Saving
Scorpio (oct 23-nov 21)
‘Keep debts down but just don't plan’
Best at - Keeping debts manageable
Worst at - Putting money away for the future
Sagittarius (nov 22– dec 21)
‘Resilient in hard times, but card happy’
Best at - Surviving in hard times
Worst at - Living in their overdrafts and not saving
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