Weddings Done Well: Decorating for Two

Jul 29, 2016 By Highland Park Village in Home, Weddings No Comments

Designing your first home as a couple can be daunting. Between consolidating beloved objects and selecting new pieces that blend (often divergent) aesthetic sensibilities, the process can be the ultimate exercise of negotiation. But with a few simple guidelines courtesy of the expert design team at Dallas-based agency, Swoon the studio, it can also be fun and rewarding as you create a memorable, comfortable and inspiring place you both call home.

Strength in Numbers

In addition to the boxes of wedding presents you’re unpacking, chances are you’re also combing through your share of personal photographs, sentimental objects and collections. The key to integrating these things into your new home in a cohesive and chic way is to first cull (do you really need that assortment of mismatched coasters from your favorite haunts?) and then group like items into smart arrangements.

A lovely curated record collection can look incredibly cool lined up on a single shelf in the living room. Have scores of books? Ditch paper jackets for a more sophisticated look. Arrange on shelves by topic, punctuated by the occasional substantial object like a piece of pottery or a large crystal. Open a couple of your favorite art, design or photography tomes and lean them on your shelves so you and your guests can enjoy what’s inside. Pick your favorite photos and works of art and cover an entire wall in a salon style gallery arrangement for a big visual (and emotional) impact.

It’s All in the Mix

Just because one of you is a modern minimalist and the other gravitates toward a more layered, traditional look doesn’t mean you’re doomed to a decorating impasse. The most interesting rooms feature furniture and accessories boasting a mix of styles, eras and pedigrees (think high low). The key is to be mindful of scale and materials. Soften a more masculine, clean lined walnut credenza with curvaceous ceramic lamps and a show stopping brass mirror. Pair that beloved Louis chair with a smaller scale mid-century leather sofa for an elegant collected vibe.

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Keep It Calm

You spend nearly half your life sleeping, so your bedroom should feel like a retreat. Keep things harmonious and soothing by honing in on beautifully crafted textiles in natural materials and keep clutter to a minimum. If possible, avoid having a television in the bedroom to encourage conversation and connection. This is your place to unwind as a couple.

Beautiful bedding is the foundation of the bedroom, so invest in well-made linen or cotton duvet covers, sheets and shams in white, ivory or grey. Pair with luxe/tactile pillows and throws in mohair or cashmere for a chic but cozy feel. Substantial nightstands or side tables are essential for corralling books, water and personal objects. Finish the room with beautiful accessories. Oversized floor mirrors, sculptural lamps, a plush vintage rug, custom art and fresh floral imbue the space with personality and visual interest.

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About Swoon: Swoon, the studio is a multidisciplinary design firm focused on residential and commercial interior design and luxury branding, identity and experiential projects. swoonthestudio.com.

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Get to Know…MADISON

Jul 22, 2016 By Highland Park Village in Home, Shopping No Comments

Nestled in the center of HP Village just between Roberta Roller Rabbit and Brunello Cucinelli sits MADISON, an intimate home interior and gift shop that’s modeled after the high-end boutiques on Madison Avenue in Manhattan.

MADISON is one of the premier home and gift shops in the Dallas area and was awarded Best Gift Shop by D Magazine in 2015.

Since 2003, nearly thirteen years after opening the design firm Kirsten Kelli, co-owners and sisters Kelli Ford and Kirsten Fitzgibbons have been gathering a special mix of contemporary and classic pieces for MADISON. The shelves are filled with items meant to make any space feel unique and range from bookends, paper weights and jewelry boxes to crystal picture frames, fine china, coffee table books and more.

Each piece falls into a category Kelli and Kirsten like to refer to as “home couture”, luxury pieces that accent and enhance commercial and residential locales.

A look at the highly decorated interior of MADISON.

MADISON’s offerings cater to a variety of aesthetic preferences and they offer a wide range of services such as wedding and baby registries, crystal and silver engraving, calligraphy, corporate gifting, gift wrapping and a highly customizable monogramming service - a personal favorite of both Kirsten and Kelli.

A small sampling of the monogramming options available at MADISON. Prices range from $20 - $400, depending on the size, and MADISON will monogram products purchased in store (napkins, pajamas, duvets, shower curtains, etc.) or personal belongings brought in by customers.

MADISON hosts several book signings and designer trunk shows each year and this fall a talented artist from Herend, the prestigious Hungarian porcelain manufacturer, will be featured in store. At the event, exclusive hand painted items will be available for purchase and the artist will demonstrate painting techniques and sign customer purchases. For more information on this and other upcoming events, visit Madison214.com or in store between 10am and 6pm Monday - Saturday or 12pm and 5pm on Sunday.

William Yeoward Crystal Vesper Glasses, $135- $250; Herend Turquoise Chinese Bouquet Plates, $80 - $335; and a four-initial monogramed napkin in “circle” style.

MADISON

45-A Highland Park Village

Dallas, TX 75205

214-528-8118

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7 Ways to Refresh Your Home for Under $150

Jul 19, 2016 By Highland Park Village in Home, Shopping, Uncategorized, What's Trending No Comments

We’re just over halfway through the year and it’s the perfect time to refresh your home before holiday decorating takes precedent. Picking small, but prominently displayed and useful items is key to making a quick and easy change in any room or area. Additions feel fresh and thoughtful when they’re seasonal, customized or come in bright pops of color. Here, we’ve selected 7 home accents, all priced under $150, ideal for a mid-year revamp to any space.

MADISON – Family Room/Couch

A vibrant new throw, like this pom pom one by Shiraleah Chicago, can completely change the feel of your family room or seating area, $145 at MADISON.

Anthropologie – Dining Room

Elevate your stemware by swapping it out for gold rimmed glassware like these from Anthropologie. Accent with gold rimmed coasters and every drink, from water to spirits, will feel a little bit fancier. From left to right, Undertone Stemless Wine Glass, $16; Annecy DOF Glass, $12; Georgette Highball Glass, $18; Georgette Glass, $18 atop Pasatiempo Coasters, $10 each.

MARKET – Coffee Table

More is more when you double up on complementing Missoni Mediterraneo Candles in their classic striped pattern, available in a range of scents for $88 each at MARKET.

Five & Ten – Bedroom

Add a fun print and personal touch to your bedroom with Gaia Hand Woven Accent Pillows which are made from vintage African mud cloth and support a worthy cause, $130 at Five & Ten.

Avant Garden Floral Arrangement – Master Bathroom

Brighten up your morning routine by adding a pop of color and a sweet scent to your master bath using a bold seasonal arrangement. Pictured here are lavender hydrangeas, light pink peonies, red charm peonies, orange double and fuchsia tulips, cherry love roses, free spirit roses, lavender freesia and sprigs of mint for $150 at Avant Garden.

St. Michaels Women’s Exchange – Console Table

Set the tone for your home with stacked books on a topic you love on your entryway console. Ranches of the American West, $45 and Hill Country Houses, $50 at St. Michael’s Women’s Exchange.

Ellis Hill – Office/Desk

Personalize your office with monogrammed accessories like this round tray, $40 and oversized notepad, $42 at Ellis Hill.

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Weddings Done Well: Culinary Checklist

Jul 5, 2016 By Highland Park Village in Food, Social, Uncategorized, Weddings No Comments

The big day is finally here, and that means packed schedules and full itineraries. Proper nourishment is key to getting all you have to accomplish done, so we’ve mapped out all the stops so you can get your culinary fixes at Highland Park Village before, on and after the big day.

Welcome Your Guests With a Local Touch
Give your out of town guests a Texas welcome by leaving locally made treats from Royal Blue Grocery in their guest rooms. A bag of Have’a Corn Chips and a jar of Guac with a Twist, accompanied by a couple bottles of refreshing, fizzy probiotic tea from Holy Kombucha are the perfect after flight snack.

Guac with a Twist, Have'A Corn Chips, Holy Kombucha fizzy probiotic tea in Blood Orange and Green Apple Ginger. All locally made and available at Royal Blue Grocery.

Guac with a Twist, Have’a Corn Chips and Holy Kombucha fizzy probiotic tea in Blood Orange and Green Apple Ginger. All locally made and available at Royal Blue Grocery.

Last Laughs with your Bridesmaids
Grab your girls and book a private wine and cheese tasting at Molto Formaggio. Sip and snack in the intimate specialty store while learning about fine wines, cheeses, food accompaniments and desserts.

Enjoy a class of Red Car Rosé of Pinot Noir Syrah with your favorite cheeses and dried fruit on the patio at Molto Formaggio, or step inside and take a private class to learn about wine and cheese pairings.

Enjoy a glass of Red Car Rosé of Pinot Noir Syrah with Italian goats cheese and orange crisps at Molto Formaggio.

Burgers and Beers with the Boys
K.T. Burger is the perfect spot for the guys. There, the groomsmen can enjoy burgers, tacos, steel-cut fries and a full bar in the laid back dining area or corner patio.

With over 15 beers on tap and a vast bottle selection, you have plenty of options for a cold brew at K.T. Burger.

Take Time for an Afternoon Pick Me Up
Snag that needed burst of caffeine or a refreshing cup of tea from Starbucks to get you through the eventful weekend. Take advantage of mobile ordering to make pick up a breeze.

Perk up with a grande caramel macchiato or cool off with a tall green tea lemonade.

Toast the Big Day Over Brunch
Squeeze in a last family brunch after you’ve tied the knot. Make a reservation at the elegant Bistro 31 or take part in the Bloody Mary Bar upstairs at Lounge 31 during their Social Sunday brunch.

Customize your Bloody Mary with meats, cheeses and veggies from the Bloody Mary Bar at Lounge 31.

Send Your Guests off with a Taste of Dallas
Show your guests you’re in the know and send them over to Cafe Pacific, rated by Zagat as one of Dallas’ best seafood restaurants.

Chilled lobster and shrimp are the perfect seafood combination from Cafe Pacific.

A Tex-Mex Honeymoon Send Off
Get vacation ready with your significant other and enjoy the best in Tex Mex cuisine and cocktails at Mi Cocina before heading out for your honeymoon.

Try a sampling of street style, shredded brisket or chicken fajita tacos from Mi Cocina’s Dinner Taqueria menu.

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A Taste of HP Village

Jun 27, 2016 By Highland Park Village in City, Food No Comments

The Dallas food scene can easily contend with the best of the best, and the restaurants at HP Village are no exception. We connected with each eatery to get the inside scoop on a signature dish or cocktail that is not to be missed. Get ready to embark on one mouthwatering taste of HP Village.

Bistro 31 - Red Beet Cured Pacific Salmon

Bistro 31 is reminiscent of a sidewalk café in the French Riviera, and has quickly become known as a unique culinary treasure thanks to its French, Italian and Spanish influences. The Red Beet Cured Pacific salmon is served over a potato latke and topped off with sour cream and paddlefish caviar. This starter dish combines classic American and European flavors with a modern twist.

Red Beet Cured Pacific Salmon with Potato Latkes, Sour Cream and Paddlefish Caviar.

Royal Blue Grocery - Asian Chicken Salad

Royal Blue Grocery is the newest dining addition to HP Village, offering quick and convenient dishes for the diner on the go. The Asian Chicken Salad is light but flavorful thank to the lemongrass marinated chicken, mandarin oranges and ginger soy vinaigrette made onsite.

Asian Chicken Salad Tossed in Ginger Soy Vinaigrette and Topped with Mandarin Oranges, Carrots and Lemongrass Marinated Chicken.

Mi Cocina - La Llorona Margarita

Mi Cocina, or My Kitchen, has established cult following roots all across Dallas for a reason - the freshest and highest quality ingredients are used to create authentic Tex Mex cuisine and cocktails. The La Llorona Margarita is an off-the-menu drink made with Sauza Blanco Tequila, Grand Marnier, fresh lime juice and a chile powder rim that tastes even better than it looks.

La Llorona Margarita prepared with Sauza Blanco Tequila, Grand Marnier, Fresh Lime Juice and a Chile Powder Rim.

KT Burger - Ahi Tuna Salad

Burgers and fries aside, KT Burger also offers gourmet hotdogs, fresh salads, hand-crafted milkshakes and an assortment of draft and bottled beer. The Ahi Tuna Salad is prepared with fresh spring mix tossed in a wasabi vinaigrette and topped with tomato, red bell pepper, avocado and a filet of ahi tuna marinated in soy sauce with fresh garlic and ginger.

Ahi Tuna Salad Tossed in Wasabi Vinaigrette and Topped with Tomato, Red Bell Pepper, Avocado and a Filet of Tuna Marinated in Soy Sauce with Fresh Garlic and Ginger.

Starbucks - Artichoke and Goat Cheese Flatbread

With the introduction of a new wine, beer and small plates menu, Starbucks is now more than just your favorite caffeine shop. The artichoke and goat cheese flatbread is perfect for sharing or light, yet flavorful, meal for one.

Starbucks Artichoke Goat Cheese Flatbread

Artichoke and Goat Cheese Flatbread with Sundried Tomatoes.

Molto Formaggio - Gorgonzola Piccante Cheese

Molto Formaggio is a quaint, European-inspired cheese, wine and charcuterie shop with a vast product offering from 18 different countries. Made in Italy by the Guffanti family, Gorgonzola Piccante Cheese, made its US debut exclusively at Molto Formaggio. The penicillin mold of this cheese imparts a spicy, sharp flavor and with no added cream, makes for a versatile pairing with many of your favorite dishes or perfect all on its own.

Gorgonzola Piccante Cheese Paired with Potter’s Winter Rye Crackers and Dried Apricots and Oranges.

Café Pacific - Bouillabaisse

Café Pacific is a Dallas institution that has served the best in seafood and steak for over 34 years, so being rated by Zagat as one of Dallas’ best seafood restaurants is no surprise. A traditional fisherman’s stew from Marseilles, France, Bouillabaisse is prepared with an aromatic broth, including saffron, fennel and orange and paired with an array of fresh seafood. The warm bowl of cozy coastal cuisine is accompanied by grilled bread and Rouille, a red pepper and garlic aioli.

Bouillabaisse prepared with Alaskan Halibut, Bay of Fundy Salmon, White Shrimp, Littleneck Clams and a Lobster Tail.

Bouillabaisse prepared with Alaskan Halibut, Bay of Fundy Salmon, White Shrimp, Littleneck Clams, Lobster Tail, Fingerling Potatoes, Tomato and Bacon.

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Get to Know…Molto Formaggio

Jun 21, 2016 By Highland Park Village in City, Food No Comments

Specialty food and gourmet wine shop, Molto Formaggio, now serves snacks and wine by the glass on their patio.

Molto Formaggio, which was previously named Best New Epicurean Shop by D Magazine, features a small patio in the heart of HP Village.

Molto Formaggio, is a specialty wine, cheese and gourmet food shop, that’s reminiscent of a chic, European-style cheese and charcuterie store.

The shop was opened in 2008 after Dallas resident Michael Perlmeter attended culinary school in Florence, Italy where he was inspired by the local stores and wanted to fill a void in the Dallas market with an authentic Florentine experience. A few years later, Perlmeter would meet Kaylee Higginbotham - a former Dallas attorney who had quit practicing law to establish a culinary travel business in Italy. Higginbotham would go on to take over the day-to-day management of Molto Formaggio and help establish it as important part of the Dallas food scene.

Inside Molto Formaggio, you’ll find local, national and international wines, cheeses and gourmet food products, including a variety of fresh and aged cheeses from 18 different countries, jams and caviars.

Moliterno al Tartufo, an earthy Sardinian cheese that's aged for 12 months and then injected with black truffle before aging for another 5 months; Toggenburger, a Swiss raw cow's milk cheese that's nutty and tangy in flavor; and Mossfield, a totally organic Irish cheese that has a caramel, cherry, nutty and earthy flavor.

From left to right: Moliterno al Tartufo, an earthy Sardinian cheese that’s aged for 12 months and then injected with black truffle before aging for another 5 months; Toggenburger, a Swiss raw cow’s milk cheese that’s nutty and tangy in flavor; and Mossfield, a totally organic Irish cheese that has a caramel, cherry, nutty and earthy flavor.

The store’s knowledgeable staff caters to novice and seasoned wine and cheese lovers alike - recommending products based on taste preferences or occasions with ease. Whether it’s a hand-selected gift basket, a perfectly presented party tray or a cheese and wine pairing to satisfy an evening craving, Molto Formaggio is able to provide high quality service and products.

Pick up a pre-made gift basket or let the associates at Molto Formaggio create a custom one for you.

Pick up a pre-made gift basket or let the team at Molto Formaggio create a custom one for you.

Molto Formaggio has a lot on the horizon this summer, including a new schedule of tiered wine and cheese classes that focus on education and pairings, and the launch of ClubCrate - a once a month shipment of ever-changing, hand selected wines, cheeses, crackers, jams and salamis shipped straight to your door and primed for entertaining (or gifting.) This fall, Molto and 20 customers will embark on the yearly pilgrimage that both Michael and Kaylee lead to visit European cheese, wine and food makers makers in France, Spain or Italy.

Wine and cheese classes are offered throughout each month and focus on educating customers about perfect pairings.

For more details on any of these events or services stop by the store Monday - Saturday between 10am and 6pm or Sunday between 12pm and 5pm or check out MoltoFormaggio.com

Molto Formaggio

68 Highland Park Village

Dallas, TX 75205

214-526-0700

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Weddings Done Well: Get Fit for the Big Day

May 27, 2016 By Highland Park Village in Fitness, Uncategorized 1 Comment

We know looking and feeling your best on your wedding day is mandatory. So in search of a simple, equipment-free workout, we partnered with one of the most disruptive trainers on the Dallas fitness scene, Crystal Pollard - Mindset Coach and Leader of A Tribe Called Sprinters - to take us through four exercises that will have you and your significant other ready in no time.

6 reps//AMRAP//10 minutes

AMRAP - “As Many Rounds As Possible.” You will do six reps of each exercise (per side for the first three). Once you make it through all four exercises, you have completed one round. This process should continue for 10 minutes. Your challenge is to complete as many rounds as possible in 10 minutes. While this can be done by yourself, it’s so much more fun to grab that special someone and challenge one another to see who can complete the most rounds in 10 minutes. But always remember - quality over quantity.

1. Kick Throughs (Controlled)

Kick Throughs (Controlled): targets total body with extra focus on core and shoulders.

Begin in a plank position making sure your shoulders and wrists are in line and your body is in a straight line from your shoulders to your ankles.
Slowly walk your feet up until your knees line up under your hips. Pick up your left arm and your right foot to create clearance.
Drive your right heel out to the 9 o’clock position. Your left heel must remain in contact with the ground, hips tall, glutes tights and shoulders packed.
Return back to the start position and repeat on the other side.

2. Plyo Split Jumps (Arms Overhead)

Plyo Split Jumps: targets total body, with extra focus on hips, glutes and quads.

Begin in a split lunge position with the right foot forward the left foot back, keeping 80% of your weight on the front leg and 20% on the back.
Jump upward and reposition your legs while in the air, landing with your feet in the opposite positions.
As soon as your feet land, repeat the action alternating the feet.
For an extra balance and core challenge, lift your arms overhead.

3. Two-Point Lunge with RDL (Romanian Deadlift)

Two-Point Lunge with RDL (Romanian Deadlift): targets hamstrings and glutes.

Begin with both feet together.
Take a large and controlled step backward with your left foot. Lower your hips so your front right leg is parallel to the floor with your right knee directly over your ankle. Your left knee should be bent at a 90-degree angle, pointing toward the floor with your left heel lifted. Return to standing by pressing your right heel into the floor and brining your left leg forward back to the starting position.
Slightly bend your right knee and hinge forward from the waist while pushing your hips back and driving your left heel back.
Drive your right foot into the ground and use your right glute and hamstring to pull you back to the standing start position. Be sure to keep a neutral spine and your core tight. Alternate legs.

4. Lying Leg Raises

Lying Leg Raises: targets core.

Lie on your back. Keep your lower back in contact with the floor and bring both legs to 90 degrees so they are in line with your hips.
Straighten your legs in line with your hips as much as possible, squeezing feet and legs together. Place your arms out wide to your side for support.
Keeping your legs straight and lower back flat and controlled, slowly lower your legs to the ground - only going as low as you can without arching your back.
Once you reach this point, squeeze your abs and bring your legs straight up back to hips.

About Pollard

Pollard holds a BSBA degree from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, and has built quite an impressive resume to date thanks to her 20+ years in the sports and fitness industry- Nike Trainer, Equinox Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor, USA Track and Field Certified Coach, NASM Certified Personal Trainer, Onnit Academy Certified Foundations Trainer, Kettlebell Level Two Coach, Bandier and Vimmia Brand Ambassador and Alumni Lululemon Ambassador. Beyond her work as a trainer, Pollard sets herself apart as a visionary in the fitness field, with her heart firmly planted in her work but her eyes and soul always fixed on the next great way to make a community of fit, happy and healthy people.

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Get to Know…Bandier

May 19, 2016 By Highland Park Village in Uncategorized No Comments

Last November, Bandier, the cult favorite fitness boutique, opened its first location outside of New York at Highland Park Village.

Bandier celebrates the intersections of “FASHION, FITNESS and MUSIC.” All of which stay true to CEO and founder Jennifer Bandier’s pop culture and music background from her days working with popular 90’s girl group TLC and many others.

The boutique offers an assortment of high performance, fashion-forward activewear for women who want to look stylish before, during and after their workout.

Just a few styles that are perfect for post workout activities. Varley Rennie Top, $90 and Beyond Yoga Double Mesh Capri Legging, $93 available at Bandier.

Currently, Bandier maintains a presence with four U.S. stores as well as a booming global eCommerce business that features over 50 established and up-and-coming fitness brands. Bandier carries a number of exclusives and collaborations from brands like Monday Active, The Transience, Mackage and APL - a cool sneaker brand whose only Texas retailer is Bandier at Highland Park Village.

The Transience Leather Wristlet, $92; Mackage Norma Parka Jacket, $350; The Transience Spacer Mesh Gym Bag, $240; APL Techloom Phantom Sneaker, $165. All exclusive to Bandier.

Most recently, Bandier partnered with luxury fashion house Cushnie et Ochs to launch a 10 piece capsule collection. The pieces are inspired by the Cushnie et Ochs aesthetic and feature laser cut pieces in body contouring silhouettes.

From the Bandier x Cushnie et Ochs Collection, Aurora Bra, $148; Rhea Legging, $215; Iris Crop Top, $155; Maia Legging, $215; Vesta Tank, $155.

Bandier took a queue from Studio B, the gym located within their Fifth Avenue store in Manhattan, and offered a variety of complimentary workout classes during Highland Park Village’s inaugural Beauty Event in late April.

The brand also publishes a lifestyle blog, B-Line, that details workout routines, interviews with designers and fitness tastemakers and even playlist recommendations from their brand ambassadors, the #BandierGirls.

Pop into the Bandier store Monday - Saturday between 10am and 6pm or Sundays between 12pm and 5pm to grab some stylish pieces good for the gym or leisure.

Interior of the Bandier store at Highland Park Village.

BANDIER

8A Highland Park Village

Dallas, TX 75205

214-559-9124

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Everything but the Workout : The Stylish Guide to Getting Workout Ready

May 16, 2016 By Highland Park Village in Fashion, Fitness, Shopping, What's Trending No Comments

Before you can tackle any workout, you’ve got to look the part. We’ve selected our favorite pieces to help get you ready.

From left to right: Varley Strand Black Technical Tee and Pico Mercury Capri, $65 and $100 at Bandier; Dior Créme de Rose Lip Balm, $28; Frederic Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Créme, $20; Kiehl’s Rare Earth Pore Minimizing Lotion, $29; Klorane Make-Up Remover Wipes, $13 at Blue Mercury; Stella McCartney for Adidas Sneakers, $160.

Varley Strand Black Technical Tee and Pico Mercury Capri: Keep cool and look ultra chic with a mesh paneled top and comfy capris that feature a foldable compression waistband. $65 and $100 at Bandier.
Stella McCartney for Adidas Sneakers: These bright sneaks are sure to put some pep in your step, $160.
Klorane Make-Up Remover Wipes: These no-rinse, fragrance-free wipes are perfect for removing all traces of makeup. Major plus - they’re hypoallergenic and alcohol free, making them ideal for sensitive skin. $13 at Blue Mercury.
Kiehl’s Rare Earth Pore Minimizing Lotion: If your skin is on the drier side, apply this oil-free lotion after cleansing to minimize pores and moisturize without leaving behind a shiny residue, $29.
Frederic Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Créme: Tame your fly-aways and whip your hair into ponytail or top knot using this lightweight glossing cream, $20.
Dior Créme de Rose Smoothing Plumping Lip Balm: Finish your look with soft, conditioned lips using this moisturizing balm made from rose oil extracts, $28.

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Weddings Done Well: Travel

Apr 24, 2016 By Highland Park Village in Shopping, Uncategorized, Wish List No Comments

We’re kicking off our Weddings Done Well series with what’s arguably one of the most exciting parts of planning nuptials - the trips! We’ve rounded up our top picks for bachelor and bachelorette parties, a destination wedding and what’s sure to be a well-deserved honeymoon - because even though you may spend countless hours crossing to-dos off your list, there is fun to be had.

BACHELORETTE PARTY : Seattle, WA

The Space Needle Observation tower lights up the night in the Seattle skyline.

Seattle gets a gloomy reputation for its wet weather (rainy season peaks between October - April), but the comfortable daytime temperatures and mild summer evenings make it a great place to explore with the girls during the drier months. Visit a winery within city limits or just 20 miles northeast in Woodinville, where the largest concentration of them can be found. Follow it up with a tasting tour of locally brewed coffees or a visit to the Starbucks Reserve Roastery and Tasting Room. For a little history, check out Pike’s Place, the country’s oldest indoor market, the Experience Music Project Museum, which is dedicated to pop culture, or the famed Space Needle. For a more outdoorsy group, visit the beaches along Lake Washington, take a hike in a local park, grab tickets for a whale watching excursion or relax in Olympic Sculpture Park.

Pick up an Alexander McQueen scarf for the cool Seattle nights. Easy to pack or perfect to wear on the plane, $385.

BACHELOR PARTY : Denver, CO

The Denver skyline in front of the Rocky Mountains.

Home to Super Bowl 50 champions, the Denver Broncos, the mile high city also boasts an additional 6 professional sports teams - so no matter the season, you and the boys can watch some of the best players in action on the court, field or rink. Coors and a smattering of local and large scale brewers call Denver and the surrounding cities home, so visit during the fall for The Great American Beer Festival or throughout the year to tour and taste straight from the producers. For the foodies in your group, check out The Source, an artisan food market. For a little outdoor fun, kayak in a local park or take a short trip outside of city limits for white water rafting, skiing or hiking.

Up your carry on game with an upgraded backpack. Trimmed in leather with a compartment big enough for shoes, it’s both stylish and practical. Ermenegildo Zegna, $650.

DESTINATION WEDDING : San Diego, CA

The San Ysidro Mountains just east of downtown San Diego in the Anza-Borrego State Park Desert.

Mild, sunny days, low annual precipitation and the mountainous and beach landscapes make San Diego an ideal place for an outdoor, destination wedding. More affordable than its Los Angeles neighbor, guests can keep themselves entertained with family friendly local activities including the museums in Old Town, special experiences like breakfast with Koalas at the 100 acre San Diego Zoo or dining and shopping along the Seaport Village Waterfront.

Soak up the sun without a worry. La Roche-Posay Anthelio Clear Skin SPF is light and water resistant - perfect for you and your guests when braving the southern California Sun. La Roche-Posay SPF 60, available at Blue Mercury, $20.

HONEYMOON : Iceland

One of the many waterfalls in south Iceland.

For a truly one of a kind trip, consider Iceland. Make the most of your time by taking advantage of the long periods of summer sunlight. Attending music, art and food festivals, horseback riding, hiking in the diverse terrain, whale watching and bathing on black sand beaches or inside the hot springs and geothermal spas are just a few ways to explore this unique destination. Year round, adventurous travelers can visit the many parks, waterfalls and geysers.

If the low winter temps don’t scare you off, opt for December - February when seeing the Northern Lights is almost guaranteed. You can also enjoy skiing, glacier climbing and snowshoeing. If you find yourself in need of a nature break, check out Reykjavik, the country’s capital which boasts a vibrant nightlife scene and museums.

His and her sunglasses with 100% UVA/UVB protection will come in handy during the consistent daylight from mid-May to mid-August. Sheldrake Plus and Benedict by Oliver Peoples, available at Peepers, $335 - $450.

Travel Tips:

Plan Ahead: Give ample notice to all prospective attendees. For weddings specifically, etiquette maven Emily Posts recommends save the dates should be sent immediately after confirming a venue and invitations 2-3 months out from the big day.
Designate Responsibilities: Lean on your most organized friend to lead the charge for bachelor and bachelorette hotels, activities and bookings - you’ve got a wedding to plan! For a destination wedding, lean on the venue concierge or a wedding planner with local experience to get things done smoothly. For the honeymoon, share the weight with your partner and make sure you’re on the same page regarding your activity to relaxing ratio for a truly blissful trip.
Don’t Stress: Relax and enjoy! If you’re taking the time to travel, make sure to soak up your surroundings and relish in your company; and remember - even Prince William and Kate Middleton delayed their honeymoon ensuring it happened at a time that was best for them.

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STYLE & SOCIAL

The Official Blog of Highland Park Village

Weddings Done Well: Decorating for Two

Get to Know…MADISON

A Taste of HP Village

Get to Know…Molto Formaggio

Weddings Done Well: Get Fit for the Big Day

Get to Know…Bandier

Weddings Done Well: Travel