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February 1st, 2008
We were fretting about the wintry weather until we heard from our colleagues at Minneapolis Picks who said it has recently been -5 degrees over there. That’s negative fiver, babies … five whole degrees below zero. Brrr! We’re not sure we can hang with those Arctic-ready gals. We’ve been walking the dog in many-layered getups and moon boots, remember. And somehow, knowing they’re freezing their patoots off to get their Picks—especially now that they’re going weekly in March—makes them seem more exotic, and definitely tougher! And makes us, apparently, giant wussies. P.S: Good news for you local ladies! Does your man needs a little help in the “What to Get You” department on V-day? Check out today’s Portland Picks for Men for a Valentine’s Day Gift Guide with fabu gift ideas just for guys! (Never hurts to get that ball rolling early, does it?) And don’t forget that next week is the Portland Picks Valentine’s Day Gift Guide—chock full of great ideas for giving—for friends, lovers, or just for you! |
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Portland Picks: |
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| 1 | Icy Hot Just the other day, one of our girlfriends dragged us to the mall for an all-day shopping excursion. Hours upon hours later we found ourselves completely and utterly exhausted, but honest to goodness there were no shopping bags in our hands. One day of shopping-mall madness made us remember just why we are the Portland Picks gals at heart. We’re all about local designers, local boutiques, and all the good stuff that makes Portland the best place to shop. And the list of what’s best never fails to stop growing—Icy Grape is the newest boutique in town and we couldn’t feel better about spending an entire day at this fabulous new store. Icy Grape carries new and used designer apparel, art, accessories and home décor and with its spacious interior, wide selection of designer denim, tops, and shoes, we couldn’t help but drag our girlfriend in to see just what a day of shopping should be like. Stop in soon for your very own Icy Grape experience and while you’re there, make sure to check out their upcoming limited-edition apparel! And tell them Portland Picks sent you! Icy Grape |
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| 2 | Shortcut to European Style We’ve always had this feeling we would live the large life, travel to Europe every year and own a house decorated in all of our divine souvenirs. We’re not sure when that plan really fell through, but we were quite excited to find the new Sellwood boutique Euro Faire, so we could at least pretend to have vacationed our way through the years. Europeans, it seems, are not afraid to flaunt bold style, which is why we so loved the throw pillows wrapped in elegant fabrics, the chunky crystal stemware and the large, ornate vases. Other finds include luxe candles, ceramic platters and memorabilia designed with classic Euro flair. The furniture—some new, some antique—ranges from a well-drawered Victorian buffet, a beautifully carved armoire and a petite French bistro table. We do like our shortcuts. Now we can feign being traveling goddesses and not even panic when people complain about the rise of the Euro dollar. We may invent clever stories about our adventures and our “souvenirs,” but that’s just a minor detail. Euro Faire |
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| 3 | Get Out and Play! Do you remember “playing”? When mom would shuffle you into the backyard with friends and somehow you’d find ways to spend hours just doing stuff outside? We don’t know how we lost the ability to fill an idle afternoon that way, but often we wish we could get that back. We have to map out our schedules to include physical activity. It’s so much easier to spend more time at work than to spend time having fun. But now we know how to put the “fun” back into our physical fitness: call Recreate Fitness! Their philosophy is that being physically fit is more than just lifting weights or running on the treadmill—breaking the stereotypes of a typical gym. They’ve traded mirrors and machines for hopscotch and hurdles. Soon you’ll be running, jumping, climbing … all the fun stuff you did as a little kid when fitness wasn’t a chore—it was a way of life. Put the fun back in your workout and expect the unexpected at Recreate Fitness. Here’s even more fun: Get five private sessions for only $200! Recreate Fitness |
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| 4 | Dreaming of Spring Break While we’re on our daydreamy bent, we’re including a tropical vacation in those reveries. Ahh, to be sunning ourselves under a palm tree, gazing out over a cerulean-blue sea from the warmth of a white-sand beach, drinking Singapore Slings and hoping that cute cabana boy hurries back with our pu-pu platter. And of course, we’ll be looking hot hot hot in a retro-inspired swimsuit from Popina Swimwear. Formerly known as Poppi Swim, Popina is still Portland’s swimwear boutique, and has all the fabulous designs you know and love that are designed to flatter any figure—but a new name and a new space! They expanded their store to three times the previous size, and added new dressing rooms, plus new swimwear from Tommy Bahama, Sunsets, Swim Systems and more. Their expert service is always appreciated—especially when trying on swimsuits. We all know how notoriously ego-smashing that can be, but Popina makes it fun, comfortable and above all, rewarding. When they put you in that picture-perfect suit, you’ll be saying goodbye daydreams, hello Spring Break! Popina Swimwear |
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| 5 | Spiff Up Your Space |
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| 6 | The Urbanity of It All Saying that we love Oregon wine country is a massive understatement. We’re out there at least quarterly. Luckily, we’ve managed to find some sober sucker (ahem, gentleman) to carts our tipsy butts around those green hills of indulgence. Sometimes, though, we’d rather spend gas money on grapes. So what’s a girl to do? Visit the new Urban Wineworks East. The newer, east-side branch of the popular Urban Wineworks in NW Portland. The tasting room for Bishop Creek Cellars, Urban Wineworks also sells wines from special guest producers. Every month brings a new theme: January was “New Year’s Disillusions,” with interesting earth-friendly packaged wines and low sulfite or organic wines. In other words, wines to help break tenuous tee-totaling resolutions. Urban Wineworks has special events, too. Taste your favorite pinot from 6-8 pm every Thursday at their “Noir Notes” event, featuring live music, or try “Bites and Flights” on Fridays from 5-8 pm, with special wine and food pairings. But you needn’t hit an event to guzzle. Get a glass or split a cheese plate anytime. Just remember to bring your designated walker. Urban Wineworks East |
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| 7 | Do You Tattoo? “Girly” is the best word to describe us. We don’t leave the house without makeup on and hair done, and we wear skirts and dresses 95% of the time. So a tattoo parlor is probably the last place we’d ever venture. Upon special request, however, we entered Skeleton Key Tattoo, which specializes in ink of the more artistic variety. Brand new to Hawthorne, the studio features a guest artist each month and celebrates creative talent in all mediums, from skin to the more traditional canvas. Though we may not take the plunge ourselves, we can certainly appreciate their eye for design, whether it be geeky (pi, with all the accompanying numbers) or colorful (swimming koi). Today is the shop’s grand opening, so now’s your chance to check out a tattoo parlor pain-free while enjoying beer, wine and vegan-friendly goodies. By the way, that last 5%? That’s all about pajamas! Skeleton Key Tattoo |
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| Chick Picks: | |||
| 1 | Hats On, Hats Off We have a love/hate relationship with hats—love that they keep our ears warm, but hate that they smush our hair. But with this chilly weather, we’ve found the perfect one to highlight our new blond … uh … highlights, and we’re even happier that it’s made here in Oregon by Pistil Designs. Pistil purveys a wide variety of modern chapeaus, all of which are adorable. While we particularly love our Coco, we’d be happy to let any of them give us hat head. |
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| 2 | Mom Had Such Pretty Lashes We however, do not, and will glop on mascara for come-hither lashes, often disappointed with the results. Enter lash goddess Deb Beers—the lead esthetician at March Wellness Day Spa. Deb specializes in gorgeous lash extensions, and uses Skinceuticals products and a few “secret weapons” to help her clients achieve an optimal and easy-to-maintain glow. February specials include a vitamin C peel facial for $75; a starter kit of lash extensions for only $90, and more! ps: Her skincare & glamour boutique is coming this summer! 503.418.9626 |
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| 3 | Sugar and Spice Can you tell that we’re jazzed for V-Day? We haven’t been this excited about gift-giving, well … since Christmas! But we’re ready to celebrate the Big V with sugar and spice from Kiehl’s, espccially the highly delish Spiced Plum Limited-Edition Hand and Body Lotion, Liquid Body Cleanser and Candle. They have a delectably juicy fragrance that’s perfect for heating up a chilly February. Sold separately, these can be custom-packaged into a gift set at the Kiehl’s store on 23rd! |
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| 4 | From Mud to Magic Back in college, we took a pottery class for credit. But no matter how hard we tried, everything wound up lopsided, speckled and otherwise unfit for any place other than buried deep in our basement. Unlike us, local ceramicist Urbana probably got an “A,” as she turns out handmade pieces that definitely warrant a place on the table. We particularly love her lovely green sake set, but act fast—it’s one of a kind! |
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| 5 | Treat Yourself on Valentine’s Day Getting ready for a date? Preparing for a cozy night on the sofa with TiVo and Dr. McDreamy? Treat yourself to an opulent bath either way. Angel Face Botanicals pampers you to the nth degree! We adore their products, especially the Rose Goddess Luxury Fizzing Bath, extravagantly scented with heart-warming rose, evocatively spicy Frankincense and a touch of Rose Geranium. Enter the discount code PortlandPicks online to save 15% off your first purchase of $25 or more, plus free shipping for orders over $75! |
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| Event of the Week: | |||
What if three hours could change your love life? PAX Programs’ “Making Sense of Men” seminar unlocks the door to an entirely new way of relating to men. Questions such as these will be answered: Why are men so frustrating? How do I fan the fire? Why doesn’t he listen to me? This is a purely positive, totally entertaining and completely worthwhile opportunity to understand the hairier sex, and to help them understand y-o-u. |
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Hip Happenings: |
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| 1 | “Oscar Night America”—Party with the Stars Glamour awaits at “Oscar Night® America at the Hollywood Theatre,” Oregon’s only event officially sanctioned by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Sumptuous buffet, fabulous prizes, cocktails & wine! Join emcees Daria, Mitch & Ted of FM 105.1, special guests Will Vinton, Patrick Lamb, and honorary chair Sam Adams. Benefits Film Action Oregon & Hollywood Theatre restoration. What: Oscar Night America |
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| 2 | Taste Walla Walla (in Portland!) No time to trek to wine country? Taste Walla Walla wines in Portland! The Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance and Bullseye Gallery partner to bring you three different artistic media in one evening as you taste wines from six up-and-coming Walla Walla wineries. View innovative works by emerging glass artists and savor delectables from rising young chefs! What: Wine by the Glass |
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| 3 | Winter Clearance Sale at Moxie Don't miss Moxie's annual winter clearance sale—starting today! Enjoy 20% off the entire store, including already marked down sale items. Save up to 75% off and find great deals on Matt & Nat handbags, J boots, Yanuk premium denim, dresses by French Connection and more. And get ready—new spring items are already in stock. What: Winter clearance sale at Moxie |
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| 4 | Perfect Pampering at Blue Sky Wellness Studio Don’t let the stress of everyday put a damper on your Valentine’s Day. Celebrate the holiday by pampering yourself—and your partner—with a pair of massages. Or how about celebrating anti-Valentine's day with your partner-in-crime with a couple of custom facials or foot baths? Mention Portland Picks and get $20 off! What: Valentine’s Day packages at Blue Sky Wellness Studio |
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| 5 | Mel Brown Trio CD Release Party Oregon Hall of Music Inductee Mel Brown, Jof Lee and Tim Gilson will create music, mix and mingle as they toast the release of their incomparable new jazz CD, which was recorded live at Salty’s! Mel Brown performed with Motown legends Diana Ross and The Temptations—and isn’t that all you need to know? What: Mel Brown Trio CD Release Party |
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Experience Relational Acupuncture
Making profound health changes can be challenging—we need resolve and support. Relational Acupuncture combines ancient healing traditions (acupuncture, meditation, Qi gong) with the needs of your modern life to help you achieve optimal levels of well-being. Intrigued? This introductory series at RiverWest Acupuncture can change your life! Call or email for detailed information. What: Relational Acupuncture |
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| 7 | PDX Collective Winter Sale! Dreary weather got you down? Get your happy on at PDX Collective’s fabu winter sale! Save big from 12 of your fave local shops: Bubble Boutique, Moxie, Mimi and Lena, Nolita, Parts + Labour, Physical Element, Pin-Me Apparel, Le Train Bleu, sameunderneath, Shoefly and The English Dept. Mark your calendars, round up the gal pals and blow your fun money! What: PDX Collective Winter Sale |
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| 8 | Red Wine and Chocolate, Anyone? You had us at hello. Don’t miss “Secret Crush,” a memorable evening of red wine and chocolate indulgence, presented by Wine Yakima Valley and Cacao. We can’t resist the Yakima Valley’s wines, and paired with hors d’oeuvres and a very special selection of artisinal chocolate pairings, this promises to be better than any date … ever! What: “Secret Crush” |
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| 9 | Everything’s On Sale at Flora Can you bottle love? Flora can—their magical potions and balms will knock you out! Find beautiful teaware, jewelry, cards & journals, lighting & decor, books, handbags, gorgeous botanical goods, and of course, potions & balms. And everything is adorable. Save 20% off everything in the store! (Excludes gift certificates and consignment.) It’s heaven! What: Storewide sale at Flora |
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| 10 | Shopaholics Unite—It’s All Local at Bargain Hunting 101! Don’t miss Bargain Hunting 101, an indie clearance sale of shopping-mall proportions! Amazing discounts from Collage, Gypsy Chic, Sofia, Olio United, Stylin’ Echo, Sofada, Frock, Foundation Garments, Ella’s, Garnish, The Monkey and the Rat, Knot Ugly Designs, Mink Boutique, Mabel & Zora, Digs, Poppy & Ivy and Origin! Eat/drink at Kennedy School , and wear try-on clothes! What: Bargain Hunting 101 |
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| 11 | Spa Treatments for a Cause Treat yourself to a spa treatment at Terra Del Sol and support the Workshops for Women Scholarship Fund. Get gorgeous for Valentine's Day, or treat someone special all while empowering women from our community in their relationships, communication skills, and self esteem. (Mention the fund when booking and they will add $10 per treatment to the fund!) What: Spa treatments to benefit Workshops for Women's scholarship fund |
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| 12 | It's Cold Outside, But The Blazers Are Hot! Our Portland Trail Blazers are having an exceptional year! And you can join the fun with the Trail Blazers Winter Survival Kit. It includes 2 free movie passes, a $20 gift certificate to Buffalo Wild Wings, and two tickets each to four great games (2/21 Seattle, 3/4 Phoenix, 3/15 Minnesota, 3/25 Washington.) It's the ultimate entertainment pack! What: Trail Blazers Winter Survival Kit |
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Don’t forget to tell your friends—male and female—about the new a fantabulous www.PortlandPicksforMen.com Valentine’s Day Gift Guide! Print it out yourself and stick it in his sock drawer … or better yet, email it to him! You know he’ll get the hint. xoxo |
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