Black Friday

I can't think of a time I ever went shopping on Black Friday... I don't mind lines so much but the getting up and shopping at 3am isn't something I would be excited for.

My black Friday, sofar, has consisted of sleeping in till about 9am and then heading out for a coffee and doughnut run. I layed around for about an hour after getting up but after seeing all my Facebook friends talking about their Black Friday deals I decided to start shopping online to see if I could score any. Amazon.com was my first stop and I am proud to say I scored a Real Simple 1yr subscription magazine for $5 (for me), The newest James Bond DVD for $5.49 (for the hubby, shhhh!) and Back to the Future the Trilogy for under $11 (for both of us). (I also bought my dad something but he reads this blog so I won't be sharing that info!) I will continue to search the internet to see what other deals I can find...

I am really curious to know why people do go wait in the long lines at ungodly hours... Are the discounts really that great? Are they selling iPhones for $20? What amazing deals am I missing by staying in bed? Please share your bargains, I really want to know!

Looking for a New Cell Phone?

I was recently looking for a new cooler phone, especially one that would allow me to blog on the go (yes, I'm a nerd)... If you have been thinking about getting a new phone, here are 2 that run Windows that you may be interested in!

With Windows phones, you have the power to pick the device that fits your needs, customize it to your lifestyle and connect with your friends and family over the holidays. Windows phones offer feature-rich voice and Web experiences in a variety of sleek yet functional designs and have features that can help even the busiest of your readers stay organized and connected without sacrificing style. If fact, major designers like Rock & Republic, Diane Von Furstenberg and Ron Arad have all designed custom themes for Windows phones that allow you to tailor your phone’s look to your unique style. Some of the new Windows phones available for purchase this holiday season include:

The HTC Tilt 2 (AT&T - $299 with 2-yr contract), as shown with a Diane Von Furstenberg theme, has distinct style and strength, while delivering the most powerful productivity experience available. The device offers 3.6 inch touch screen, includes HTC’s TouchFLO 3D technology and a sliding full QWERTY keyboard.

The HTC Imagio (Verizon - $199 with 2-yr contract and $100 online discount), as shown with a Rock & Republic theme, combines performance and functionality in one sleek package. This Windows phone features a 3.6 inch touch screen and 5 mega-pixel camera with auto-focus.

I have not used either of these phones just yet love my HTC phone and sadly mine didn't come with a fancy designer theme.

Sam Trout's Back to School Fundraiser

Local clothing designer, Sam Trout, has decided to go back to school and is having a FUNdraiser on December 1st to try and make this happen - there will be a fashion show!

Here is the info straight from Sam:
Have you ever been in that place where you thought, "If I just had a little more training or a little more schooling I'd be able to move up financially in the world and do work that really excites me."? Me too. Work has been a little slow, retail is a little slow and I'm taking this opportunity to do something about it.

You've seen my work, you've worked with me, you've bought my shirts or my art and you know that I'm capable of doing whatever it takes to succeed.

I would like to invite you to this exclusive event that I have created. There will be a fashion show, food, music and drinks, the opportunity to purchase some art for your wall, the debut of my new children's line of clothing, a new dress for the ladies AND the debut of El Capitan Creamery my personal line of Gourmet Ice Cream available by the pint.

I really hope that you will have the chance to come share this exciting evening with me. Be sure to register now because space is limited. If you're not able to make it but still want to show your support, please make a donation via paypal to lulaline@yahoo.com or even take some time to go through my webstore and order yourself a shirt or two.

Thank you so much for your time and support and I look forward to seeing you at the party. If you'd like to get into the event for FREE, buy two shirts online now and I'll put your name on the list.

-Sam Trout

If you are interested in attending, please RSVP here.

The Fabulous BlogMeetBlog

Tonight was the first blogmeetblog held at BoConcept. It was such a fun networking event for local bloggers. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting new like minded folks.

Thanks to needle + thread and The Clothes Horse for putting together such a fun event. I can't wait for the next one.

Mike Adams took a ton of pictures of all the fun we were having, head on over and check them out! If you were there feel free to post your blog and thoughts in the comments section

Sabrina Love Handbags On Sale NOW!

I've talked about Sabrina Love before on here, she is just an amazing woman and a designer. I heart her! I actually own her red patent leather clutch and it's one of my favorite handbags! I WANT MORE!

Well it's my lucky day, and yours, as she is having a 30% off sale to thank all of her loyal supporters! She is even including Fall 09 designs!! Just use FALL09 in the giftcode box. The sale runs through November 24th so HURRY and score that must have bag for Fall... Ready, set, GO SHOP!

What would I buy... Well glad you asked. I want the handbag in the picture (Marais) but in grey. Dear Santa?

Holiday Trunk Show & Pamper Party

I'm really excited to announce that on this Thursday, the 19th, I will be setting up a table and actually selling my jewelry. I have taken about a year or so off from making new pieces due to Urban Fashion Network and all the time I have devoted to the site and the blogs. Now that is not a bad thing as I love every moment I give to UFN but it's time to dust of the ole jewelry skills, make some new pieces and see if anyone is interested. I hope you all are!

The event will be held in Ballard at the Duque Salon & Spa (5348 Ballard Ave NW. Seattle, WA 98107) from 6-9pm. There will be some amazing designers, even I'm looking forward to getting my holiday shopping done at this event!

Here are the details:

Bring a friend and kick back, relax and start your holiday gift shopping! A portion of all proceeds will benefit breast cancer awareness and research.

The owner of Duque Salon & Spa is a breast cancer survivor and has generously offered us their space for the evening. They will be providing mini spa services at Duque and consultations with a makeup artist at their cosmetic studio next door, Shimmer Beauty Bar. The first 30 people in the door will get a great bag of swag! There are also some amazing raffle prizes that we will give away throughout the evening, including spa/salon services and a set of lash extensions worth over $125! There will be other specials on all services during the event - if you feel the need to indulge.

We have several vendors who will be selling jewelry, candles, spa products and great gift items for you and all those on your list. If you feel so inclined, please also bring some nibbles or a beverage to share while you shop. This event is open to anyone...so bring a girlfriend or forward this event to anyone you wish!

Duque Salon & Shimmer Beauty Bar are located right at the bell tower in old Ballard.
www.duquesalon.com

Off Topic...

Just wanted to share... Just got my pre-order of Battle Studies and super thrilled to listen to it... If you like JM, enjoy the photo!! You're welcome! ;)

Blog Meet Blog

If you are a blogger and interested in meeting others like yourself this is the event for you!

Date: Friday, November 20, 2009
Time: 7:00pm - 10:00pm
Location: BoConcept Seattle 901 Western Ave Seattle, WA

An event to foster community, interaction and learning for Northwest blogs with fashion, food and lifestyle content.

Come mix in the spacious luxe atmosphere of Seattle's coolest furniture showroom- BoConcept. Sip a cocktail, feel the beat, and get to know bloggers you read on a daily basis. A new way to network, a fun night out and inspiration from peers- blogmeetblog.

The night will include
-music
-snacks
-drinks
-giveaways

The first 200 to RSVP are confirmed entry and on the list - please mark down if you will be bringing a guest. Before confirmation is sent, existence of a blog authored by you will be verified. Attendance priority is reserved for bloggers.

RSVP on Facebook!

'Shop Local' Initiative

This is an AMAZING Ladies Who Launch event and if you support local then please check this out!

2009 has been a difficult year

Entrepreneurs have had to be resilient and resourceful, nimble and creative. It has been especially challenging for independent boutiques and shops. Our neighborhoods are populated with fabulous, unique and interesting businesses that create the personality and character we love. We have lost many of our favorites all over the region and we are at risk of losing more in 2010.

I am increasingly convinced that collaboration is the best model for success in business and life. As women, we practice that quality instinctively. Our Ladies Who Launch community is blessed to include some of the most generous and passionate women with which I have ever had the privilege to be associated...and I am hoping all of you would like the opportunity to show the world (at least, our corner of it) what brilliant, committed and passionate women can achieve.

"Survival isn't a solo act" - Cinda Baxter

What are you willing to do?
If you are a retail shop, would you spend 2 hours at a meeting to collaborate?
If you have a product to sell, would you do a trunk show or a 'pop-up' shop?
If you are a PR Diva, would you help with Press Releases and Media attention?
If you are a Marketing Guru, would you design an Event Template?
If you are an Event Planner, would you give advice and counsel?
If you are an artist or entertainer, would you be available for an Event?
If you are in the media, would you talk or write about this effort?
If you are a lady who's launching, would you show up and support us?

Sign up now, come to the meeting, offer your suggestions, bring your ideas, support us and collaborate!

Date: Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Time: 7pm-9pm
Where: 5Focus - 1009 8th AV N - Seattle, WA 98109 (MAP)
Parking: Street parking is available and it is FREE.
Price: FREE for everyone just register here so I know how many chairs to rent!
?'s: Call Linda Snyder at 206-390-6167 or Candice Caldwell at 206-715-2410

Message from Linda:

So, why am I doing this?
I love retail...30 years at an entrepreneurial department store, many years as a retail coach consulting with entrepreneurs. I have friends and clients who are passionate about their businesses. Several incidents occurred in the last month that got me thinking that "someone should do something about this!"

My To-Do list has included "join the 3/50 project - post on site and FB" since July. At the end of October I went to the site, signed up and started reading. Cinda Baxter's question to retailers hit me between the eyes.

"So, do you want to be around a year from now?"

I was shocked! Then I stopped to consider. What could I do to make a significant difference. I knew that I had a platform and forum to start the conversation and get the word out. I started pounding the pavement, visiting shops, inviting them to attend our meeting on Tuesday, November 24 and now I am hoping that you will feel the same way I do.

I could put this passion and energy to work for a charitable cause, I have done so in the past and will again in the future. I guess it all boils down to 'I Love Retail', it's like a virus for me, it's in my blood and I want it to be vital, healthy, vibrant and fun again! It's theater and drama and dynamic and exciting when it is done well...and so many places I love do it brilliantly.

Some of my friends have said that they "are tired of not shopping". Nothing has changed for them, they are among the 90% still employed, still have credit cards, still have dinner out and spa appointments. But some where along the line, they stopped shopping and started feeling like they needed to do the 'patriotic' thing and follow Suze Orman's advice. I almost came through the television to throttle her last year when she said "stop spending! start saving!" It's good advice, but everything in moderation folks! I actually had someone tell me it was unfashionable to shop!

I believe that even if you have to buy less, you should spend local.

Local business spins the wheels of the economy. It is where the jobs are generated, the sale tax revenue comes from, it creates the neighborhoods. Let's share the love a little this next year and keep our purchases local.

And if you can't attend, please sign up for the 3/50 project and support us by putting your local shops and favorite Boutiques on your Holiday Shopping List!

Thanks for listening,
Linda

SPUN & Jesica Milton "Shop & Chill"

Glitter Sale Preview!

Tonight I was given an exclusive preview of the Glitter Sale goods and ohhh were they good! Myself, and several other bloggers, perused the racks and were squealing with glee over fur coats, dresses, jewelry, shoes... so many lovely things!

Don't worry, we weren't allowed to purchase any items (or else there would be nothing left) but I did snap some pictures of some of my favorites. I plan to head straight to the jewelry and do some damage there. Watch out, I'll be throwing elbows!

All of the money from the sale goes towards the Goodwill job training programs - so feel good knowing you are helping people while also giving these fabulous items a new home. You will be like an eco humanitarian!

The Goodwill Glitter Sale is this coming Saturday & Sunday (November 14-15th) from 9am - 6pm. It is held at the Seattle Goodwill's Dearborn St. Store (1400 South Lane Street).

See you there!

20% off at alishalouise.com

Today was my lucky day...

This afternoon I dropped off a pair of jeans at Nordstrom to be patched and just so happened to see a rack of premium denim on sale (I had no idea that stuff EVER went on sale - YAY!). I peaked over and saw the exact pair of jeans I purchased for FULL PRICE a few weeks ago (the blog post all about it). I asked the sales woman if they did price adjustments and she said "of course". I assumed I had to bring them in with my receipt but she said nope, they could look it up with my card right then. She took my card, swiped it and then suddenly I was credited back quite a large sum, large enough I could have almost bought a second pair - I was thrilled!!!

Thank you Nordstrom for being so amazingly awesome!

Girl On Top Re-cap

Last night I drove down to the Westfield Southcenter Mall to attend the Girl On Top event which was hosted by The Limited. I would be lying if I said I had been in a Limited in the last several years but honestly they had some really nice pieces and accessories. They were much nicer than I remember!

Before the event started, myself and other anxious ladies formed a very orderly line outside the store. Several of my blogger friends were there too, which made waiting in line fly by. We were let in at 6pm - there were several friendly store employees to greet up, wine and frozen custard (which was delicious!) to snack on.

Myself and a few other fashion bloggers (Jess, Kristina, Youa, Sydney, Shalonne, Darrah and Kam) had our pictures taken with Nicole Williams, the author of Girl On Top. She was very friendly and easy to chat with. She was dressed in clothing from The Limited and these hot peep toe Christian Louboutin heals.

Once the actual fashion show started, Nicole and another women from The Limited (sorry I didn't write down her name) showed us several looks to wear for interviews, business meetings, general work attire and even taking the look from work to evening. This was where I started to see The Limited in a new light. I took pictures of this portion of the event so go check them out! (The models are store employees).

After the show, they introduced their stylists who came from the home office in Columbus, OH. I immediately grabbed one and asked her for some help on buying a suit as I have not bought one in over 5 years. She was glad to help and assisted me in finding the perfect fit for me. Trying it on took quite awhile as they only have 6 dressing rooms and most women seemed to have the same idea as me. Once I made it into the dressing room one of the stylists came by and helped me with a belt and another shirt... The customer service was amazing - A+! I bought the whole suit, a belt and 2 tops... Oh I forgot to mention it was all 40% off for the event so I feel like I got a great deal! I'm not a person who wears a suit often so I made sure to pick one that I could piece out with my normal clothing - I'm pretty thrilled with my purchase!

They also had this cool obi belt and it sold out at the event - they said it would... I am just going to have to add it to my wish list.

After the event I headed out and grabbed my gift bag that was said to be "valued at over $500" - I must say I do not agree with that statement. The gift bag had some nice items in it but there is no way it's actually valued at $500. It contained the latest Elle magazine, a bottle of lavender lotion, an "emergency kit" from plan b, a few coupons, and a small clutch bag from The Limited with a $19.95 price tag. The items are nice and I'll use them but they are not worth $500, so I'm sorry if that was why you headed down there, but hopefully the event was fun for you too!

Check out Nicole's book, Girl On Top, Youa read it and said it was a good read!

Thank you for the invite, it was an amazing event and I'm so glad I went!

Glitter Gala Re-cap

Last night was the 2nd annual Glitter Gala held downtown at the Sheraton. As promised, it was filled with lots of glitter - it's patrons sure know how to bring out the bling!

The fashion show began at 7:30 and the theme was the Golden Era of Film. The models were made up of 60 volunteers along with 2 local celebs! All of the clothing in the show will be available at the Glitter Sale on November 14-15th. They had over 30 movie snipits (Grease, South Pacific, Pretty Woman, Gigi, Some Like it Hot, Breakfast at Tiffany's, etc...) paired with outfits that portrayed the film and the era - it was really well done!

The show ended with the winning designs from the students from the Art Institute - they were given $75, a movie to work with (Twilight, Austin Powers...) and then let loose in the Goodwill store. It's like a mini Project Runway...

Check out the photos and experience the fun for yourself!

Glitter Gala Tonight!

Tonight is the Goodwill Glitter Gala - are you going to be there?

Thursday, November 5, 2009 at 6:00pm
Sheraton Hotel Metropolitan Ballroom 1400 Sixth Avenue, Seattle

Here are all the details!

Check out pictures from last years event.

NYFA Silent Auction

NY Fashion Academy is having a silent auction fundraiser the night of Ballard Art Walk on Sat, Nov. 14th for their fashion show that will be held in early April. There will be complimentary drinks and apps!

Upcoming Events I'm Excited for....

This week is going to be a busy one... Here is where you'll be able to find UFN hanging out and socializing...

Bi-Annual Dress for Success Event at Clutch:
Wednesday, Nov. 4, 5–7:30pm
Drinks, sweets, prizes, giveaways, polish changes from Julep, and jewelry from Rock Star Jewelry for 25% off. Bring in a gently used handbag or toiletries for 25% off a new fancy handbag! Win win!!

2nd Annual Goodwill Glitter Gala:
Nov 5th at 6pm at the Sheraton Hotel Metropolitan Ballroom (1400 Sixth Ave)
Also note, the 26th Annual Goodwill Glitter Sale which is November 14 - 15th, from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Girl On Top:
Nov 6th, 6-9pm
The Limited at South Center 315 S. Center, Strander Blvd.
-Chatting up the women in Seattle you need to have on speed dial
-A gift bag valued at over $500 (full of stuff you'll actually use)
-An exclusive 40% discount on The Limited's brand new business-chic attire (perfect for that next big meeting or interview)
-Free-flowing Girl On Top Cocktails
-Career advice from Nicole Williams (who couldn’t use that at a time like this?)
Please RSVP (let them know UFN sent you!)

Then next week:

November FGI Event:
Nov 10th at Ummelina Day Spa (1525 4th Ave) at 6:30-8:30pm
Seattle’s Fashion Group International is hosting a fall fashion event on Tuesday November 10th at Ummelina Day Spa. Event highlights include a mini trunk show presented by Betsey Blach from Cashmere Wrappings, complimentary hand massages and foot soaks from Ummelina Day Spa and a special presentation by FGI member Margaret Spencer who is a Seattle-based wardrobe stylist. “As a Personal Stylist, I empower women to be their personal best and help find the right fit for their individual shape,” says Margaret. Admission to this event is free to all FGI members and $10 for general admission.
Please RSVP to Courtney Russell at crussell@halfpastlavish.com

SEMI-ANNUAL BLUSH II
Nov 13th, The Spitfire Grill (2219 4th Ave) in Belltown at 7pm
This semi-annual event showcases designs from local fashion designer Vantha Ry. Ms. Ry’s clothing line which caters to petite women who are 5’4’’ and under consists of ready-to-wear separates that are functional and fashionable. In addition to Vantha Ry, Blush II will also include fashions derived from other up and coming designers and boutiques in their fashion show lineup.
Guests and attendees of Blush II will enjoy an evening of fashion, beauty, and entertainment all to benefit Y.E.S. and Dress For Success which provides its members with volunteer, fundraising and networking opportunities to champion the mission of Dress for Success, a not-for-profit organization that promotes the economic independence of disadvantaged women.

Stay up to date on local events and sales with our Events and Sales Calendar! (We work very hard on it!) :)

My Crafty Sunday...

I had big plans for the day... Movie, coffee, maybe a workout, walk through the market... Instead I never left the house, but once, to walk the dogs.

Don't feel sorry for me though because I ended up turning my Sunday into a day of crafting. First I started with these shadow boxes I bought several weeks ago - I transformed them into 3 boxes representing our 3 favorite cities in Japan: Tokyo, Miyajima and Hiroshima. Then I tried to move onto the actual scrapbooking portion of the project and failed miserably as I just got the first page 96% done. Scrapbooking is a lot harder than I thought. There is a lot of pre-planning that needs to be done so I ended up spending hours doing that. Sooo, by the time I got to the first page I kind of fizzled out.

Lastly in my crafty day, I busted out the ole jewelry supplies and tried to make some new pieces for myself. I was trying to think of colors and outfits I have that need jewelry and came up with 2 necklaces and a bracelet. What do you think?

I'm now exhausted and feel like it's way later than it actually is... Apparently this daylight savings time has thrown me off a bit. That's not a complaint though as I'll take that extra hour to sleep in. I'll take it and I'll savor it.