Let the cheer begin!

So I don’t know about everyone else...but it’s this time of year where my mailbox fills up with catalogs and invites to holiday party’s and most importantly...open houses. This year I decided try to do a post once a week that lists all of the holiday open houses and sales at local businesses around town. Check out what was in my inbox this week!

Join duoHOME TONIGHT (11/20) at LUXE for their "1 Sies Wine Event." It will be a VERY fun evening, a chance to enjoy the deliciousness (is that a word?) of LUXE and peruse some fun holiday merchandise from duoHOME. Bottle openers, wine bags, bottle jewelry and champagne buckets are just a few of the items duoHOME will be offering in the chic and comfortable setting of LUXE for this special event. Stock Up For Thanksgiving Or Gifts For The Holidays! 4- 8pm $8pp (a steal of a deal!) Thanksgiving Inspired Small Bites. rsvp today for tonight by calling 216.920.0600!

The Spa at Yellow Creek, in Bath OH, invites you to their “HIP Holiday Event,” Thursday December 11th, 6:30pm. Complimentary mini spa treatments, cocktails & hors D’oeuvres. 15% off all products, gifts and services booked. To rsvp email mvaccaro@yellowcreekspa.com

Steve Barry Buick in Lakewood. Visit this local dealership for their 6th annual customer appreciation party. Bring a non-perishable food item as a donation to the Lakewood Food bank. Thursday, December 11th, 2-8p,. While you’re there check out the new Enclave..maybe if you’ve been REALLY good this year santa will bring you one? No rsvp necessary.

Girl Next Door in Rocky River OH, Holiday Happy Hour Shopping Spree, Thursday December 20th, 5-8pm. Join the sisters of style as they bring to you the latest trends in jewelry (one of my favorite local places for a unique piece) and fashion imported from the West Coast. The store is both charming and glamorous, the perfect place to find your holiday party dress. Don’t miss out!

Eclectic Home in Lakewood (next to Borderline Café) invites you to their 2008 Holiday Celebration, Friday the 21st and Saturday the 22nd. While you shop enjoy Mimosa & muffins (8-noon), Punch & cookies (noon-4) and Wine & Cheese (4-9). Purchase $50 or more and recive a 25% off discount coupon to apply to your entire purchase during the week of 12/16-21!

Aveda Crocker Park, Westlake, OH December 1st, 2006, 6-9pm Enjoy sips and snacks while experiencing complimentary exclusive Aveda signature treatments for hair, skin & nails. I hear this is a fun gathering and is one NOT to miss! Thanks for the heads up Karen! :)

Where the "Wild Things" read (11/21)

Friday, November 21st, 2008

Meet the "Wild Things" at Barnes & Noble in Crocker Park, Westlake. Stay for the entire story hour, or just swing by for the first gingerbread latte of the holiday season and story time with Max.

Discover if Max has fun with the "Wild Things" before he drifts off to sleep. Don't be scared to come to story time in the children's department upstairs. 10:30-11:30am



For directions and additional information visit www.barnesandnoble.com

Launch shopping party (11/20)

Thursday, November 20th, 2008

Join the girls for the TrendyTrousseau.com for their big launch party!

TrendyTrousseau.com is a new online boutique that serves the everyday girl. Clothing, Handbags and Accessories (in all price ranges) will be on hand for holiday shopping. Join the gang for the shopping spree plus wine, snacks and style!



To rsvp drop a note to info@trendytrousseau.com. 7 -9pm At Wooltex Gallery, Tower Press, 1900 Superior Ave Cleveland, OH 44144

Stylish Fun (11/13)

Thursday, November 13th, 2008

Why not spend the evening exploring Chagrin Falls as Stash Style will host their Holiday Open House. Featuring antiques and some soon-to-be antiques, the home furnishings boutique will feature all things glittery for your holiday decorating, gift-giving and more. Join Shannon for a wonderful evening reconnecting with friends and preparing for the months that lie ahead. The evening affair will also showcase cupcakes by Pat Hoose and the creative work of Chic Unique and Old World Design Studio-both furniture refinshers with a knack for making something new again!



Light refreshments including petite fours and bubbly will be served. For direction and additional information call 440.247.2550.

Crazy Mullets

Looking for a fun, fresh fall hair style? Visit Crazy Mullets located in Lakewood (Coventry location coming soon!).

The space is filled with bright off-the-wall art while the stylist stations use an assortment of auto mechanic tools and cabinetry. The staff displays the latest in fun colors and patterns for your fall hair (leopard prints for guys and pink bangs for girls!) The team is very friendly and approachable, a definite place to explore for your next haircut, color or updo! And did I mention their prices are VERY affordable? A women's cut starts at $20, you can't find that too many other places.



Next time you are in the market for a trim or a curl check them out! For an appointment at the Lakewood location call 216.712.7733

Shoe Fun (11/06)

Thursday, November 6th, 2008

Join DSW at the Crocker Park Grand Opening TONIGHT! DSW is providing one lucky customer 15 minutes to win as many DSW shoes as he or she can fit into a smart car. The winner will also have a 1-in-5 chance to win the car itself!

▪ 5pm Registration
▪ 8pm Drawing
▪ 8:30pm Winner stuffs the car! (I am SO gonna win!)

For more information and directions visit www.crockerpark.com

made in the 216 (11/7-8)

Friday, November 7th, 2008

By now most of you are probablly aware that THIS Friday (& Saturday) marks the second "Made in the 216" event presented by Room Service and the ever-so-creative; Danielle! If you are looking for something fun to do this weekend THIS is the event for you. Not only will there be shopping, but I bet you bump into a few friends you haven't seen in awhile, plus there will be a few yummy munchies on the scene too, don't miss it.



For two days only, Room Service will be showcasing 18 different Cleveland-based designers offering a wide range of items from menswear to women's jewelry & handbags to household and children's goods and more (think early holiday shopping). Along with many new designers participating in this 216 event, local favorites that Room Service carries year-round will be introducing new designs for the show as well.

For more information visit www.roomservicecleveland.com

Lululemon Opening (11/01)

Please join Lululemon as we welcome them to Cleveland!

Stop by their new space at The Hampton's Luxury Apartments (220-Rec, 27040 Cedar Rd., Beachwood OH 44122) this Saturday morning for a complimentary yoga class, taught by lululemon ambassador and yoga/fitness guru Deanna Black at 10-11am. The showroom will be open from 11-4pm with live music, healthy treats, and lots of mingling with Clevelanders in the yoga and fitness community.

Hope you can stop in and give this east coat company a warm midwest welcome!

For more information visit www.lululemon.com

Shoparooni's Birthday Bash! (10/25)

Saturday, October 25th, 2008

Celebrate the darling little store Shoparooni and their first year in business success! Starting at 7pm, there will be prizes, drinking, merriment, arm-wrestling, haiku contests, raffles, and they're even going to carve pumpkins...my favorite fall activity! Please bring your own pumpkin (preferably already gutted.)



If I get to swing by the party I would LOVE to pick up this sassy feather t-shirt by Public Domain for under fall cardigans and this adorable print by Julia Kuo. Check out their site, they have lots of charming finds, www.shoparooni.com

Happy birthday Shoparooni! 15813 Waterloo Road Cleveland, OH 44110 216.383.3633

Fashion for the Cure (10/15)

Wednesday, October 15th, 2008

This Wednesday if you are feeling charitable AND looking for a fashion fix purchase a ticket to the Key to the Cure Kickoff Party at Saks Fifth Avenue.



Cocktails, Hors d'oeuvres from 12 of Cleveland's Finest Restaurants, Balloon Raffle, and Silent Auction. Also, the limited edition t-shirt designed by Karl Lagerfeld will make it's debuts this evening.

6-9pm. Tickets are $50 per person. For more information or to purchase a ticket, please call Jaclyn Chapple at 216.445.3358 or email chapplj@ccf.org Proceeds to benefit Women's Cancer Research at the Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Institute.

Holiday Art Sale (11/15)

Saturday, November 15th, 2008

Along the same lines as the Artist Flea Market, this weekend the group over at Art House will hold their annual holiday fine art sale. Shop for unique holiday gifts while supporting your local artists. Delicious baked goods will also be on hand to nibble at while shopping. A craft station will provide activities for families, so bring the entire gang! All proceeds go to support Art House programming and community activities.



Handmade Jewelry • Textiles • Glass • Enamels • Ceramics • Paintings • Paper Crafts & more!

11 am-5pm Free and open to the public! For directions and more event details visit www.ArtHouseInc.org

Fall Coffee Week!

As the first week of fall rolls into place, I would like to take this week to explore many of the yummy coffee brews in the Cleveland area. From independents hangouts (Arabica, Pheonix, Gypsy Bean, etc.) to the mega monsters (Starbucks, Caribou & Einsteins) each coffee supplier has something special to offer this fall so take a peak and enjoy the week.

This morning I was up early and after an evening of making my Mom's recipe of pumpkin chocolate chip cookies, I was craving a "grande" fall inspired cup of joe to kick off my week. Einstein Bros. usually has a great fail blend and I wondered if it was out yet...it HAD to be, it is the first official day of fall afterall.



YES! the Autumn Blend had arrived. A slight taste of chestnut intertwined with smooth cinnamon undertones made for a lovely morning coffee fix. There are many Einstein Bros. locations in the Cleveland area, track one down and try it out. (The pumpkin bagels are pretty scrumptious too!) www.einsteinbros.com (very cute website)

Fall Yard Sale (9/18)

Thursday, September 18th 2008

Calling all discount divas...Don't miss the sale of the season!



As we cleaned out our closets (to make space for fall finds) we discovered true treasures to share with you. The sale includes sassy clothes and accessories as well as home decor, kitchenware, small furniture and more! This will be one sale you will want to grab your best pals and come explore.

8:00am-2:00pm. 1669 Marlowe Ave. Lakewood OH

b.a. Sweetie

Ever wondered where to find the best vintage taffy, candy necklaces and every flavor of blow pops imaginable? Look no further than b.a. Sweetie.

b. a. Sweetie started back in 1950 as Bag-A-Sweet Candy located on Brookpark Road in Parma, Ohio. Started by Albert Tokar and his brother-in-law Frank Stasny, the store was primarily a re-bagger of bulk candy which was sold to local grocery, convenient, and drug stores. The bagged candy which sold for 19¢ to 59¢ each were delivered to the stores by a network of 8 independent distributors....and the rest is history!

The sweet store continues to service a few locally owned grocery stores and other retailers but now also sells to the world! They operate one of the largest web businesses in the United States.



The other day I decided to take step into this massive candy explosion and for those of you who know me...if it is made from sugar, I crave it. After spending almost $30 on taffy, gum, unique Pez dispensers (and cola & chocolate refills), sugar ice cream cones, wafer filled flying saucers and more, I was on a complete sugar rush.

If you are looking for a place to score on this years Halloween candy, definitely take a trip to b.a. Sweetie for fun, variety and every type of candy imaginable. you won't be disappointed! :)



For directions and more visit www.sweetiescandy.com

Apple Opening (9/13)

Saturday, September 13th, 2008

Come to the new Apple Store, Crocker Park, and bring your curiosity. It's the place to test-drive any Mac or iPod, experience iPhone, and catch free workshops to learn all the latest tips and tricks. When you get there, find the Concierge in the orange shirt. The Concierge is your guide to everything from checking in for an appointment to instant checkout. And if you're one of the first 1000 visitors, you'll get a free Apple T-shirt.*



The party gets started at 10:00am. For directions and additional information on the exciting Grand Opening Celebration visit www.crockerpark.com

(*Lines will form beginning at 5pm on Friday September 12 at 267 Crocker Park Blvd in front of the new location.)

Fall Must-Haves

It's September...have you started making your fall fashion "must-have" shopping list? After hours and hours of flipping through the monster issues of Vogue, Bazaar, the latest J.Crew fall catalog and scrolling through blog after blog, I have a small list of a few "would-love-to-have's." The list goes something like, a new white button down, a pair of gray knee-high boots, a soft cashmere crewneck sweater, turquoise patent leather pumps, a striped scarf to accessorize all my vintage coats and possibly a few funky "just-for-Saturday" sweaters.

So, a few years ago while strolling though Brooklyn I came across a great little store called Ohio Knitting Mills, funny...this store was the showroom to what was once a sweater factory located right here in Cleveland. Founded by Harry Stone in 1928, the Ohio Knitting Mills grew to become one of the country’s largest knitwear producers. It was at the center of Clevelands thriving garment industry producing knitwear for iconic department stores from Sears to Saks. After World War II, the Mill plucked samples of each style they produced and put them into storage.



Five decades later, the archive had grown into a vast collection of design artifacts, representing mainstream fashion from the classic 40’s, fab 50’s, swinging 60’s, and funky 70’s. The little store had opened this time capsule to sell the collection of perfectly preserved fashions and I had stumbled upon it. Over the last few years the knits were taken online so that everyone worldwide can own a piece of Cleveland history.

If I was to indulge myself this fall I would buy the Natural Wave Jacket made with 100% wool, the 3/4 sleeves and half-dome plastic buttons are delightful. AND the MMMM Scarf Sewn from an early 1970's knit fabric is super fun as well.

Take a peak and let me know if anything gets added to you "list." ...www.ohioknittingmills.com

Morning at the Market

What could be better than a morning spent exploring at the Westside Market? (www.westsidemarket.org) This past Saturday morning a friend of mine and I enjoyed breakfast at the Market Café before heading into the hustle and bustle of the market crowd. Mimosas and Eggs Benedict (with French fries!) was a delicious treat, but did you know the café also has a large wine menu and may be a nice place to catch happy hour some evening?



After breakfast we hit the cheese stand (Mackenzie Creamery, saffron goat cheese is out of this world), the market coffee bar, the bread stand and some of the various produce vendors (for fresh cherries!) Not only is the market a place to practice your “haggling” skills it is filled with some really great graphics. As a designer I find my eye drawn to the simple, unique and visually bold works of art, who knew watermelon cartons, strawberry crates and boxes filled with cabbage and apples could be works of art unto themselves. Check it out.



So next time you wakes up early on a Saturday morning and are looking to explore a food fantasy and a untapped art gallery, take a spin down to West 25th and Lorain Ave. It is a delight for the senses. :)

BOGO Ice Cream

Stop into Malley's Ice Cream Parlor on Madison Ave (near 117th) in Lakewood and with every ice cream purchase you will get one free! It's a Buy One Get One for ice cream! Grab a friend or two and sit and enjoy the quaint space, the illustrations of Alice and Wonderland and crew are worth the trip alone...but the homemade hot fudge is pretty good too!



I don't have the details on this promo, but for more information give them a shout at 216.529.6262. Enjoy!

Check it out!

Thanks and congratulations to Danielle Deboe; sassy proprietor of the dazzling store “Room Service” (www.roomservicecleveland.com) located in the Gordon Square Arts District. Danielle wrote an amazing City Guide to Cleveland that was published yesterday on the infamous Design Sponge Blog. Danielle, thanks for including iheartcleveland in your mix of all thing fun, fresh and fabulous in Cleveland! Your summary of every nook and cranny in the city is an amazing resource that everyone should have stuffed in their glove box or backpack for an afternoon adventure. Congratulations and thanks again!

To read the article visit www.designspongeonline.com/2008/07/cleveland-design-guide.html#more-10871

Lakewood Art Festival (8/02)

Saturday, August 2nd, 2008

The 31st Annual Lakewood Arts Festival will be held this weekend from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m on Detroit Avenue from Elmwood to Belle Avenues.

For over thirty years, the Lakewood Art Festival has brought local and national artists to the streets of Lakewood, Ohio the first weekend in August. The Lakewood Downtown Arts Festival, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that administers the show with the help of a team of hard-working volunteers and the cooperation of the city of Lakewood, Ohio. The festival supports itself with money raised by entry fees, donations from community merchants, sponsorship funds and t-shirt sales.

Every year a line-up of fine musical entertainment is scheduled throughout the day. This year Rachel Roberts from Akron will perform live at 12:30, she is a must-see! Be there.



Besides supporting the festival itself, money earned or donated goes towards a scholarship for a local high school graduate, a Lakewood resident, pursuing a degree in fine arts, and toward grants awarded local organizations presenting art programs for children and seniors in Lakewood.

For the map, listing of artists visit www.lakewoodartsfest.org

New Art.

On this blog, I mostly try and tell you of upcoming events and happenings around town but I can’t resist sharing my new little piece of art. I purchased this small beaute this past Friday at the opening of Claire Mojher’s work at Papercuts and Gluesticks in Rocky River. I took one look at “Lucy and Loubelle lurk behind the scenes” and knew I had to take “them” home. The gilded blue silver frame and little blue bow adds to the charm and whimsy of the piece. The exhibit will run through the end of August, stop in to see the entire collection (my piece is still there). Otherwise visit Claire's Etsy site for more examples of her work.



www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5036218 or to read more of her thoughts visit http://clairemojher.blogspot.com/

Claire Mojher in River (7/25)

Friday, July 25th, 2008

If you enjoy a good art opening than you won’t want to miss the lovely work of Claire Mojher this Friday evening at the charming gallery in Rocky River, Papercuts and Gluesticks .

Claire's work has soul, a look into the lives of her characters reveals mystery, intrigue, pain and a whimsical curiosity for life. Her use of color is both vibrant and dark. As a graduate of the Ringling School of Art and Design, Sarasota Florida, Claire has received numerous awards and accolades. I don’t know now she found Ohio, but we are excited to see her work. I will definitely be stopping by the gallery...pre-ingenuity events!



Opening reception with the artists from 7=9pm. Eat. Drink. And Buy Art!
For more of Ms. Mojhers work visit www.clairemojher.com for directions and more information on the gallery visit www.papercutsandguesticks.com

Exquisite Chocolates

As we strolled the streets of Tremont we discovered a new city gem that I can't resist sharing!

First off...who couldn't fall in love with a store who's tagline is..."Specializing in making your mouth dance?"

Lilly Handmade Chocolates designs unique chocolates from only the freshest ingredients, no preservatives, no artificial flavors. Just the good stuff! They are made on premise with French & Belgian covertures, locally roasted nuts and much love, of course!

Some of the flavors I can't wait to treat myself too would be The Heather (cayenne pepper & dark chocolate), The Southern Gentleman (Makers Mark Bourbon, buttered pecans & milk chocolate) and The Intense Orange (blood orange juice & dark chocolate).



Stop by Lilly on the 2nd Friday of each month for the Tremont Art Walk as they stay open until 10pm! For directions, hours and other flavors visit www.lillytremont.com

Tremont Tastes Good! (7/20)

Sunday, July 20th, 2008

Put down the top of your little blue convertible, grab those dark aviator sunglasses, round up the gang and head down to the 6th Annual Taste of Tremont street festival from 1:00to 8:00pm. The street fair will be held in the heart of Tremont’s “restaurant district” and showcase the best of Tremont’s food, art and entertainment. Professor Street will be blocked off, inclusive of commercial areas of Literary, College and Jefferson. The best part is that admission is free!

For more information including the official map, visit www.restoretremont.com

Walk & Roll Lakewood (7/19)

Saturday, July 19th 2008

Come celebrate Lakewood’s walkability and its finest assets: a vibrant downtown, historic architecture and a spectacular Lake Erie park. Two-miles of streets in the heart of the urban community will be closed for walking, running, strolling, bicycling, blading and socializing. Programming includes tumbling, dancing, aerobics, yoga, a bike rodeo, skateboard demonstrations and more. All activities are free and will take place on the streets or in Lakewood Park. Visitors will have the opportunity to join “classes” on an impromptu basis. This is a progressive and unique event for health, environmental and community-minded Ohioans.



For activity details, visit www.walkroll.com

Sip & Stroll (7/10)

Thursday, July 10th, 2008

Sip and Stroll at the Shops of Old River every Thursday night now through September. Visit the unique boutiques, including the Girl Next Door and Paper Trails (www.papertrailstoyou.com) as they stay open later for evening shopping. Sample wines and snacks from some of the area eateries including the new Tartine Bistro (www.tartinebistro.com) and the ever popular Stino da Napoli (www.stinodanapoli.com)

Swing by old river and enjoy a night out with friends!

Larchmere Festival (6/28)

Saturday, June 28th 2008

This Saturday if you can dodge the predicted rain and thunderstorms make your way over to Larchmere Blvd in Shaker Heights for an old-time street festival. This fest comes complete with an antique & flea sale, unique food from area vendors, local music and the famed Euclid Beach Rocket Car PLUS special sales by the Larchmere merchants.

From junk to jewels and kitsch to collectible! A distinguished sale of sundry and varietal goods ranging from the old, ordinary and useful to the sublime, cool and collectible. Don't miss out..perhaps I could get more buttons to add to my collection...or teapots...or white pottery...I bet they will have great stuff!

Larchmere Boulevard will not be closed to traffic, so you'll be able to park on the boulevard itself, as well as various parking lots and sidestreets. In particular, three local parking lots will be available: the lot at LifeSkills on Larchmere and E. 121st St, the lot at Our Lady of Peace Church on Shaker Blvd at E. 126th St., and the parking lot at Fairhill Center at Fairhill and E. 119th St. All are in walking distance to the festivities on Larchmere, and the Euclid Beach Rocket Car can help with transportation between 1:00-4:00pm.

For a detailed Map, directions, and download the official event PDF at www.loganberrybooks.com/LMA-fleamarket.html

Our Day on the RTA

I don’t know what sparked the idea, but a few months back myself and my good friend had a spark of inspiration that it may be fun to spend the day taking in the sites of Cleveland by way of our Public Transportation System, the RTA. A whole day with no car, a day to see the city out the windows of the bus, a day to stand and wait for our turn to hop aboard the wheels that keep the Greater Cleveland public moving along.

A few days in advance, our plans were made, our PDF maps printed, our canvas tote bags, umbrellas, sunglasses and rolls of quarters all laid out and ready for the adventure that lie ahead. We were like little kids the night before Christmas, giddy with excitement.

At 10:05 sharp we left our cars in an empty Rapid parking lot. As we rode the escalator up to the train we could hear the brakes of an oncoming train, and noticing fellow riders running to meet the arrival, we followed suit and booked down the stairs to the platform below. (note* even comfy wedge heels don’t make for good running shoes!) As we slipped into the seats of the red line heading east, the fellow passengers were a mix of young and old, people were sleeping, jamming to their headphones and catching up on the morning paper. Looking at the city from the windows of the train you see the Cleveland in ways you may never have in your own car. The colorful graffiti that lines the concrete walls, the crumbling vintage advertising painted on the side of an old building, the neighborhoods that back up to the tracks...it’s all a visual delight.



As our first stop, W 25th/Ohio City approached our stomachs were growling for food. So off to the Westside Market Café we went. (upcoming post) After an amazing breakfast we decided to hang out and explore the area on foot. After a thorough visit to the market (upcoming post), a walk through St Ignatius Campus, A trip to Unique Thrift, the German grocery Store-Hansa Import Store (upcoming post) and the West 25th Bookstore we decided to grab a bus to our second destination...downtown.

Bus 22 took us to the center of our fair city, Public Square. We did run into a few “characters” on this ride, giving us unsolicited advice about “two girls riding the bus,” yadda yadda, you can only imagine...needless to say we arrived safely. Downtown was quiet, the sun was out and it seemed you could hear a pin drop. As we climbed the stairs of the Sailors and Soldiers Monument (upcoming post) we were curious to see what was actually inside this amazing architectural structure. Once through the monument we decided to walk over the the Public Library Reading Garden (upcoming post) relax for a bit, and have a snack that we bought earlier at the Market. After resting our feet we continued to walk over to Mall B and take in the latest public art installation (upcoming post) then made our way over to the infamous FREE Stamp (upcoming post). After a moment for some funny photos, we proceeded to walk over to the waterfront for a visit to the USS COD (upcoming post). I can honestly say that besides taking the trains and buses around the city this submarine had to be the most fascinating part of my day.

It was now around 3:30 and time to head east, so we made our way back up East 9th and looked for the closest bus stop to grab our next ride, Bus 6. After waiting just a few minutes, time enough to look around, take in the construction site and historical architecture lining Euclid Avenue, our bus had arrived. Did you know it only costs $4 for an all day pass? What a bargain! We slowly made our way up Euclid, enjoying the new bus-only lane. The crowd was a bit more “alive” than previous rides. The older women with stories to share, the children giggling as they approached their stops, the teens ready to hit the town running...it was a colorful crowd.

Our stop at Euclid & East 79th had arrived and it was time for an early dinner at that pink building on Carnegie...the Hot Sauce King, Hot Sauce Williams. You’ve never eaten better friend okra and wings that those of Williams, the wet hand wipes we purchased earlier in the day sure did come in handy. After dinner we continued the trip East heading over to University Circle.

As we were on the bus we noticed the sky becoming dark and the winds picking up. Were we going to be caught with NO CAR in this thunderstorm? YES. As we stood like wet cats in the rain, our clothes soaked (the umbrellas we packed gave little protection to the afternoon downpour), we stood huddled in the alcoves of Severance Hall waiting for the next bus. As much as we had intended to make it to Shaker Square for an evening of live music on the Square, we hopped aboard and headed back west to Public Square for the Rapid back home. The damp bus ride was so quiet, everyone wet from the afternoon storm. Sticky umbrellas. Chilly from the air conditioning that was meant to keep passengers content. As we ran from the drop off at Public Square to the entrance at Terminal Tower we were hit with monsoon number two. At this point we couldn’t help but to laugh, although we were literally soaked, our spirits were so high from a day of complete fascination and public transportation. I seriously have NEVER in the ten years I have know my friend ever heard her laugh so loud. It was great.

As we made our way down to the RTA epicenter in Tower City we noticed we weren’t the only rained on passengers, everyone was soaked. It stirred comradery amongst us and everyone smiled and shook their heads. Already reliving the stories from the day it was time to get home...by way of our cars. Time to change out of our soaked clothes, put away our finds from the day and file the memories of our day with the RTA.

We strongly recommend taking a day this summer to explore Cleveland by way of RTA, North America’s BEST Public Transportation System; 2007.
For maps and schedules visit www.riderta.com

Art at Banana

If you aren't in the market for some frilly summer frocks, swing by BR to peruse the wild photo gallery...or the sale rack.

Photographer Andy Biggs is passionate about African Safaris and animal imagery, and it shows in his work. Biggs recently landed a big deal with Banana Republic; they're using his images in stores, on billboards and in window displays as part of their Summer 2008 advertising campaign. The images are all black & white, and are calm and classy; this is a thinking-man's safari.



"I began my photographic career leading a workshop or two in Africa each year, and now it has turned into a business where I am leading up to six or seven photographic safaris and workshops in a year. Whenever people think about anything safari or African, I want them to think about my photography and my photographic safaris." commented Biggs.

For more of "Mr. Biggs" work, visit www.andybiggs.com. To locate the nearest BN Gallery to you visit www.bananarepublic.com

Made in the 216 (6/20)

Friday, June 20 2008

We as Clevelanders have a lot to be proud of. We just may not always realize it. A chic boutique in the Detroit Shoreway District called Room Service is hosting their inaugural bi-annual event highlighting a few of the reasons we have to be proud of ‘the 216’! I will definitely be skipping out of work early for this happening, I don't want to miss any great finds!

MADE IN THE 216 is not a traditional art opening. The genesis of this event was the idea that Cleveland shopping is lacking the clever and unique items found only in the hip neighborhoods of New York and Chicago. While Cleveland may still be lacking the shopping districts of those towns, that is only temporary. Five years ago when owner, Danielle DeBoe moved back from a four year hiatus in Los Angeles she says she “…had a really hard time shopping here”; well that has changed DRAMATICALLY over the past few years with the opening of several unique and interesting home, accessory and apparel boutiques throughout the near west and east sides of Cleveland and she has become very confident that the Detroit Shoreway will become the diverse Cleveland boutique shopping district that we all yearn for.

For this 2 day event Room Service Home will break down the traditional store merchandising scheme and create little ‘sub-shops’ dedicated to the aesthetic of CLEVELAND-BASED artists & designers whose products are just as unique, clever and well made as the items we travel to New York to find, but made right here in our hometown.



MADE IN THE 216 will be held on Friday June 20 from 4-9pm with a wine and cheese reception with the artists/designers and Saturday June 21 from 12-5pm. The artists/designers featured are: Small Screen Designs, BCTZ Cleveland, Little Korboose, Amy Derethik, Finley Handmade, [base] line, Sarah Jane Reidel, Buzz Buzz Designs, Satomi Jin, Hannah Verbeuren Photography, and Marian Made. Collectively, they make a wide weft of products from wall art and jewelry to baby onesies and hand-dyed vintage linens and quite a few things in between!

See you Friday at Room Service : 6505 Detroit Avenue ; Cleveland, OH 44102
216.281.4221 www.roomservicecleveland.com

"Free" Hermes

Good morning Cleveland!

After a a long weekend of milling around Northeast Ohio I have to tell you I love this place (like you didn't know already). Coffee frozen yogurt from Mitchell's, dancing at the annual Greek Festival, good wine with good tunes at Brother Lounge, running down to the new boardwalk at Lakewood Park (to work off the ice cream & wine), Gallucci's, and more.

However, as I was going through piles of "must -read" magazine subscriptions, I realized what we are lacking in is high end shopping opportunities. Why don't we have a cute little Kate Spade boutique for the latest in bright hued totes, shoes & paper? How about a MOMA Design Store to pick up the best in designer posters, note cards or calenders? Or even better; I think we need a Hermès store to go and drool over the infamous patterned scarves complete with bright orange box! Not that I am going to run right out and buy one of each, but it always nice to window shop and dream, right? I digress...



While I can't whip up the retail market in Cleveland, I can let you in on a little secret...you too can get a FREE Hermès Kelly Bag (watch out Katie Holmes) right here in Cleveland. Visit http://lesailes.hermes.com/na/en/ Print out the pattern, fold along the lines, decorate, and voila: your own iconic Kelly bag....right here in Cleveland.

Who needs a store....when you can have a PDF? :)

A Day on the Farm (5/03)

Saturday, May 3rd, 2008

Join Slow Food Northern Ohio (http://slowfoodnorthernohio.blogspot.com) at Morgan Farm as they celebrate spring and enjoy the season’s first farm-fresh foods. Located 67 miles southwest of Cleveland near Ashland, Ohio, Morgan Farm features ten acres of unspoiled Ohio farmland where you can enjoy a historic, art-filled 1866 farmhouse; mingle with goats, horses, pigs and heritage turkeys; and experience Ohio farm life. Spend an afternoon biking the countryside; browse local antique shops; and pick out spring flowers for mom at local greenhouses.



Saturday afternoon from 2-6 will include a barbeque, including locally made bratwurst & grass-fed burgers, spring slaw, local cheeses, crackers & snacks, and Amish sweets. Suggested Donation: Adults $10 ~ Kids $3 Reservations required. Local farmers will have pork, certified-organic beef, eggs, and fresh baked goods available for sale. From 5-8pm there will also be a large sunset campfire...Don't miss it!

To reserve your spot, please contact Kari at Slow Food Northern Ohio, 216.225.6311 or email: CAFECINQ@roadrunner.com.
Also, Morgan Farm is now booking 2008 farmstays, for more information call 917.586.5477 or visit www.morganfarmstudios.com

Sale on the Grounds (5/02-03)

Friday May 2nd and Saturday May 3rd, 2008

The 20th annual Lakewood Historical Sale on the Grounds is just around the corner! You’ll find wonderful treasures at the sale, including antiques and collectibles, sports equipment, linens, toys, household goods, vintage accessories, kitchenware, lamps, tools, furniture and more.

Get your tickets for the Preview Party for this Friday night from 7-9 p.m. This is your chance to shop early and find the best bargains. Tickets are just $10 and you can purchase them at the Nicholson House, through the museum office (216.221.7343 or lakewoodhistory@bge.net) or at www.lakewoodhistorymuseumstore.com



The Sale on the Grounds is located at the Nicholson House, Saturday from 9-3pm. For more information on the Nicholson House visit www.lakewoodhistory.org/nicholson.htm

Bike (shop) Tour

As summer approaches many of us will head out on the roads, the trails, the mud and the back roads, testing our skills on our two wheeled sidekicks...our bikes. As an owner of a trusty mountain bike I appreciate all of the awesome bikes out there on the market, but with the need for speed I decided to head out and investigate, research, read, and research some more until I found just the perfect road bike for this summer’s adventures.

Like I mentioned before, when I go to buy something I tend to over research the matter to the hundredth degree, and this was no exception. Saturday mornings were mornings for "finding a bike." Some days involved my friends, some involved trekking through the snow, some just hanging out with the "bike boys." Each time I picked up something new and noteworthy about my impending "investment."

Below are some of the area stores I hit, and we are truly lucky to have access to all of these great bike shops in Northeast Ohio. If you are in the market, any of these retailers will not disappoint.

Spin (www.spinbikeshop.com)
An amazing "boutique" shop with great selections for any type of high performance bike. Along with bikes, they also stock an assortment of shoes, helmets and sports bars (Espresso power bars, my favorite!). The staff is younger, tattooed and the tunes are rocking the house. Some of the main lines they carry are Felt, Specialized, Kona and Santacruz. Visit them at 14515 Madison Ave Lakewood OH.

Eddy's (www.eddys.com)
This retailer is a staple in the Cleveland bike community with bikes ranging from tiny tots to those lazy day touring low riders, and they definitely know their stuff. They carry both Trek and Cannondale bikes. They pride themselves on a perfect-fit system, an interesting high-tech computer that scans your body and aligns your bike to your specific body frame. The sales staff were very pleasant and knowledgeable although all of their women’s road bikes were pink with butterflies...not my specific style, but maybe for someone else? Eddy's has locations all around the region but I visited the North Olmsted store, 25140 Lorain Rd. North Olmsted, OH

Performance Bike (www.performancebike.com)
The only true chain store I explored was filled with lots of great deals. Unfortunatley bikes weren't what caught my eye. They had many bikes for your weekend warriors and lots of children’s bikes, but their selection for road bikes was small. However, they did have the largest selection of apparel and those little hard plastic bottomed road bike shoes, including a large clearance department with super low prices. Located next door to Panera Bread in Rocky River (in the old Pier One space), 19707 Center Ridge Road Rocky River, OH

Century Cycles (www.centurycycles.com)
A friendly, neighborhood staple filled with bikes for any cyclist. With bikes hanging from the ceiling, stacked in boxes and propped against every exposed wall, there really was something for everyone. Some of the brands they offer are Giant, Raleigh and Bianchi. The staff really took their time talking with me and teaching me about all the bike options and what makes one bike $1200 vs. $800 (carbon). This store offers bike rentals and group rides out of their Peninsula location, and they also have a shop in Medina. The Rocky River store is located at 19955 Detroit Rd.



Every employee at each bike shop was super helpful, knowledgeable and enthusiastic...I wish I could have bought a bike from every store. The selection and staff enthusiasm is what made me most excited to buy my new bike from Century Cycles. Neil, Ken and Ray could not have been more helpful or pleasant to learn from.

I finally settled on an amazing intro compact road racing bike by Giant. It is black and silver (and will match with anything!) and comes complete with Shimano Sora shifters and brake levers and Kenda Kontender Tires...I told you I hung around the shops a lot!

To those of you who have heard me rattle on and on about this darn bike, thanks! I look forward to seeing you all on the road...please don't try and hit me!

Sunday's at the Market

A Sunday destination and much more than a traditional farmers market, the Kamm’s Corners Farmers Market features entertainment, health education and cooking demonstrations to attract local and regional interest.

Each week the selection of locally grown produce, breads and baked goods, cheese, honey, jams and jellies, herbs and flowering plants changes as the seasons bounty comes in from area farms and kitchens. “Locally grown” entertainment is also a hallmark of the market, with a variety of quality area musicians and other entertainers appear