You Are a Saint

Saint Cupcake knows cupcakes.  That’s all they do (well, practically).  Finger-licking, mouth-watering, ooey gooey, decadent cupcakes.  And they do it very well.   Moist, fresh cupcakes smeared with heavy, sweet frosting.  Oh, mercy!  (We couldn’t get enough of their hot fudge cupcakes – a Saint Cupcake specialty.)   If you are having an event, or want a unique gift idea, bring a baker’s dozen.  Just to get you salivating, picture these:  Peanut Butter Cupcakes with Hot Fudge Glaze, Big Top Cupcakes with Chocolate Chip Tops, Red Velvet cupcakes and Cinnamon Cream  or Chocolate Cream Cheese Swirly....it’s obscene, isn’t it?

Saint Cupcake loves to make cupcakes, but they also bake a variety of other heavenly sweets, like their popular cinnamon rolls that almost always sell out (so get there early).  And what goes better with sweets than coffee?  Saint Cupcake proudly brews Portland’s own Stumptown beans.  Visit Saint Cupcake...and then start your diet tomorrow.

Saint Cupcake
407 NW 17th Ave.
Portland, OR 97209
503.473.8760
www.saintcupcake.com

This is Vital

One of our resolutions is to help others.  And charity starts at home, with our signiffy other.  We plan to gently prod him into achieving “normal” hair and better grooming.  And the new Vital Barber Shop at Bridgeport Village makes it easy.

The Vital Barbershop combines the classic barbershop experience of yesteryear in a slick, updated, upscale environment .   And guys, get this: rather than following your woman around Bridgeport as she shops like an agreeable puppy, remind her that you wear the pants (at least sometimes) and know how to use your time wisely.  While she shops, kick back and get a haircut at the Vital Barber Shop.  For $25 you can relax with a beer, head massage and cut.  Or how about a Hot Towel Shave?  If you want to take the kids, they can line them all up for a haircut while they enjoy an old-school soda and a lollipop ($15).  Baby’s first Vital haircut is free, and if you wear a uniform and yield your badge, it’s 10% off.   And the Vital Barbershop only uses the finest, manliest products, like our favorite Sharps Shave Cream and Tuner.  Only the best of the best here – because you’re worth it.

If you want a sneak peek at this barbershop experience, it’s “vital” you stop by their Open House tonight or tomorrow from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.  Head over to Bridgeport for a movie and be sure to stop in for a treat, and tell them Portland Picks sent you.

The Vital Barbershop
7455 SW Bridgeport Road
(across from The Container Store)
Tigard, OR 97224
503.598.8656
www.thevitalbarbershop.com

Happy Honeymooning

The South Pacific.  It’s more than just an old movie with catchy songs and a tropical backdrop, it’s a place to make your own honeymoon memories.  (Catchy songs are optional, but there’s no escaping that tropical backdrop.)  And what’s the best way to get there, newlyweds?  Make a Honeymoon Registry!  Most of us have everything we need, anyway.  Wouldn’t you trade a new toaster for a trip to Fiji?
 
Picture sipping rum drinks from coconut shells, getting shiatsu massages underneath palm trees that whisper in a sultry breeze, dining on gourmet meals under a South Sea moon, and coming back to Oregon feeling blissful and relaxed, and with a wicked tropical tan.  Many resorts in the South Pacific offer wonderful discounts for honeymooners such as one free night, or a discounted rate, an afternoon on a private island with a picnic lunch, and many other special things such as champagne on arrival.  
 
These are offered during high season as well – not just during the off months.  While the South Pacific is usually a more expensive destination with regard to package pricing, certain areas (such as Fiji and the Cook Islands) offer an excellent exchange rate for the U.S. Dollar.
 
For specialized assistance, please call Piper Fenton with Remarkable Honeymoons, in association with Willamette International Travel.  She can help you realize the vacation of your dreams!

P.S. We used her for our own honeymoon, and it was truly out of this world.
 
Piper Fenton
Remarkable Honeymoons
503.614.1803
1.866.614.1803 (toll-free in the US & Canada)
www.remarkablehoneymoons.com

For The Goddess Within

You deserve bliss.  At least two hours’ worth.  Don’t you agree?  Get your new year off to a healthy start by treating your inner goddess to some serious pampering and restorative goodness, courtesy of Indigenous Medicine Therapies.  It’s a fabulous mix of acupuncture, massage and nutritional counseling that can help you undo all that holiday damage.

Here’s how it goes: You start off with a Chinese pressure-point massage that relieves stress throughout your body.  Next comes an acupuncture session that relieves your stress level even further.  Then comes nutritional counseling that helps reestablish your body’s healthy relationship with food.  And finally, you’re sent on your (super-relaxed) merry way with free beauty samples.

And from now through Feb. 24, Portland Picks readers get a VIP discount of $25 off this special “Goddess Package” (Only $55, instead of $80.)  It’s your New Year’s treat from Indigenous Medicine Therapies, a holistic clinic specializing in Chinese medicine and acupuncture.  Call or visit online today to make your appointment!

Indigenous Medicine Therapies
Almine Barton, L.Ac., M.Ac.O.M.
6491 SW Capitol Hwy.  
Portland, OR 97239
503.756.5602 or 503.239.8203
www.imtacupuncture.com

Your New Neighborhood Italian

What Would You Do with 1,000 Velvet Paintings?

Just so you know, we totally knew about the Velveteria before it opened…we just happened to get down there on that day a few weeks ago when it snowed, and they were closed due to the weather.  (It’s also the day we decided to get an all-wheel drive car, as our little rascal wound up slipping like a sled on the icy streets.)
 
Anyhoo, we heard about Velveteria, “Museum of Velvet Paintings,” about six weeks ago from our friend Amy at Le Reve salon.  Thankfully, we made it there last weekend, so now you can see for yourself and spread the word: Velveteria rocks.  Gather your friends with a sense of humor and go there.
 
The owners amassed more than 1,000 paintings on velvet over the past six years (from as far away as Cuzco, Peru, and as close as Portland) and a few hundred of them are on display at Velveteria.  You will be amazed at what people can put on a velvet canvas – the obligatory Elvis/Jesus/Clowns trifecta is represented, but oh my, the rest of them…there’s a wall of Banditos with huge hats and grizzled expressions. There’s a section dedicated to tropical isles, there’s Yoda, a blue panther, a poodle, Jimi Hendrix, a whole room full of nudes, and one they call “Unicorn Comb-Over” that you have to see to believe.
 
It’s a celebration of bad taste, so firmly plant your tongue in your cheek and high-tail it over to Velveteria.  They were generous enough to share their “wealth” with Portland – it’s up to us to show them our appreciation by popping in.  And tell them Portland Picks sent you!
 
Velveteria
518 NE 28th Ave.
Portland, OR 97232
503.233.5100

You Didn’t Know You Needed It…

We Resolve to be Hairless (Where it Counts)

One of our favorite aestheticians and waxing gurus, Cristina Atencio, formerly of Sylvie Day Spa, has started her own company, Isabel Blackwell Spa.  With 11 years experience here in Northwest Portland, Cristina is your gal for your entre into the wild world of waxing, specifically, ahem, down there.  

The Brazilian, Cristina’s specialty, is $45, and the relaxing environment helps when one is getting their hair follicles ripped out.  And Cristina is known for her speed waxing, so it’s over before you can say “Duct Tape.”  Too, Cristina’s sense of humor and pleasant attitude always helps when  you find yourself in an awkward position, so to speak.

But that’s not all – her facials are an absolutely delicious pampering experience.   She carries an exclusive skincare line from France that is one of the best in the Portland area.   The one-hour facial treatments vary in price, between $80 to $125, and are well worth it, like you.

Isabel Blackwell Spa
1500 NW 18th Ave. Suite #103
Portland, OR. 97210
503.274.8400

We Are So Souri

Since we refuse to give in to fat clothes, we need to temporarily buy other things, beautiful things, to surround ourselves and to create Zen living while we detox, all the while still satisfying our need to shop.  Souri is just the place for this fix.  

Souri is all about "Enhancing the Spirit of Fine Living," after all, it’s their motto (and ours too!)  They carry a huge selection of high-end candles such as Illume and Trapp (one can never have too many candles) and have a ton of unique fun, stylish home accessories like their glass and pillows that are a little bit modern, a little bit ethnic, and an eclectic mix of wonderful finds that definitely beat the fat pants hands down.  Until we drop the extra poundage that we’re (quite proudly) storing for winter, you’ll find us here.
 
Souri’s Gifts and Home Accessories
748 NW 11th Ave.
Portland, OR 97209
503.224.5401

“What Are We Going to do Today?!?”

This wicked weather makes us crazy, cooping us up indoors.  We even lost power, which was fun for about two seconds (until the computer battery died and “The Incredibles” stopped and the kids were bored again and we had no wine...and....)  But it’s time to bundle up and get out before we all go mad.  This is Oregon, and you’ve always bragged of being a “true Oregonian” which means you are too cool for an umbrella and you live life outdoors...despite the damp, dank, dark, depressing world out there, not to mention flying branches.

 But what are we going to doooo?   Not that scary Chuck E. Cheese.  Not an option.  He gives us clown nightmares all over again.  But what?  

Folklore Media, a local video production company, has just completed a DVD guide called "Portland at Play"  that seeks to answer that age-old question on every kid's mind, "What are we going to do today?"  Not only does it answer that question with visual tours of many of the terrific kid-friendly activities and attractions in and around Portland (year 'round, indoor and outdoor, rain or shine, young kids and older kids), but it also really makes our city look pretty great to folks that don't have kids.  

Now if only we can figure out the answer to “Are we there yet?”

www.portlandatplay.com

Smile!

Another of our many resolutions is to beautify our smile.  We want to make sure our teeth are healthy and white.  We have years ahead with these chomps and a smile means everything, so we must take extra care.  That’s why we’ve made our New Year appointment with our fabulous dentist, Green Apple Dental.  It’s truly a spa experience and something we actually enjoy.  And for you, our pretties, if you go to Green Apple and tell them Portland Picks sent you, they’ll give you a gift (a goody bag or a DANI soy candle while supplies last), because we know you didn’t get enough gifts over the holidays.

Please take our word for it, this is the best dentist in the world.  We’ve gone through so many so believe us when we say we know.  From the relaxing waiting area, to the complimentary bottled water and healthy snacks, to the iPod and massage chairs, it’s just plain lovely.  They also offer a new toothpaste flavor system from Japan.  You can choose from a tasty menu: Jasmine Mint, Lavender, White Peach, Grape, Fuji Apple and Japanese Plum.  This is so cool.  Their attention to your every need, their kindness, the spa atmosphere and complimentary amenities make them our Pick for our dentist.  Be sure to add Green Apple Dental to your New Year’s resolutions, and make your appointment now (think: gift!)

Green Apple Dental
1320 SW 2nd Ave.
Portland, OR  97210
503.224-0133
www.greenappledental.com

Chris Dudley, a 16-year veteran of the NBA, hosted The Chris Dudley’s Who’s Who Celebrity Poker Benefit, a benefit for  The Dudley Foundation dedicated to supporting children with diabetes.

The evening, at OBA! was full of Hollywood Celebrities, A Texas Hold’Em Tournament, an extravagant silent and live auction, and craps and blackjack tournament. So glam!

• Wide belts
• Chunky shoes
• Flashy headbands and hairclips
• Long and layered necklaces
• Romantic dresses
• Layered shirts
• The white blouse
• Cropped pants
• Lace dresses and tops
• The oversized bag (messengers and hobos)
• Anything with jeans
• Neutral shades
• Sweaters year-round
• The two-piece suit
• Bright, flamboyant patterns
• Colorful camisoles
• Short Academy jackets
• Chiffon dresses
• Adorned thongs for spring

Symphony Soiree

We were looking at our January calendar and realizing how blindingly blank it was.  But then we remembered there was a Symphony Soiree event this month and how much fun we had at the last one.  Plus, we love how it rounds out our social calendar of dive bars and beer pong.  So we made plans to attend the January 23 Soiree featuring Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade. 

The event features a pre-concert reception at the Heathman Hotel with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, an intermission gathering, and a post-concert reception at the Art Bar. 

For Soiree ticket and concert info call 503.228.1353 or visit www.orsymphony.org/soiree.

Northwest Hoyt Street Restaurants Inspire Diners with a European Culinary Tour

Four Restaurants, Three Courses and Two Blocks of Fine Dining for $30

Just in time for the après-holiday doldrums, restaurants Fratelli, Giorgio's, Le Bouchon, and Olea offer diners a European-inspired stroll on NW Hoyt Street with each restaurant featuring a $30 three-course menu for the month of January.   The three-course menu is available the entire month of January with the exception of weekend nights at Olea.  No passports, no travel agents, and no luggage, all you need is an appetite for cozy winter dining.  

 For more information, contact Fratelli-owner Tim Cuscaden at 503-241-8800.

Save the Date – Crave OSCARS Party – March 5th, 2006

Get the "star treatment" and indulge in ultra-pampering spa services while watching the Oscars Live with your best girlfriends!

Join us for an evening of ultimate relaxation, star-gazing, shopping, sipping and noshing while you rate the evening's fashion oooohs and blahs.

Wear your comfy pajamas or your favorite leisure wear, and enter the lush world of “everything you crave" under one roof.

Gather your gal pals together and reserve your spot today! Space is limited, so don't delay. Register online at www.craveportland.com.

Big Souchi Sale

Beginning Thursday, Jan. 5, we will be marking down our fall cashmere from 50-75%!!!

AND THE FIRST 10 PEOPLE IN THE DOOR THAT DAY WILL RECEIVE AN EXTRA 10% OFF!

This is the perfect time to add to your existing collection or to grab a few pieces to start one.  Many sweaters will be under $100!  But come early, as sizes and colors are limited...

souchi
806 NW 23rd Ave.
Portland, OR 97210
503.539.4058

OHSU Center For Women's Health Brown Bag

In recognition of National Eye Care Month, the OHSU Center for Women's Health invites you to attend this month's free women's health Brown Bag at Nordstrom Downtown Portland from noon to 1 p.m. on Thursday, January 12. Dr. Sonja Conner will talk about nutrition and macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in the world.

For details go to:
www.ohsuwomenshealth.com/bbag.htm

Happy New Year!

We're terribly excited to announce the debut of Bridal by the English Dept., a new collection of lovely dresses and assorted finery for weddings and special occasions.

Collection Preview & Fashion Show
Sunday, 22 January
11 am
at The English Dept.
724 NW 23rd Ave.
503.224.0724

RSVPs aren't necessary, but seating is limited. Call to reserve a good spot!

Also in January...
SALE SALE SALE
The English Dept. loves a good chucking out, and there's no better time than the beginning of a fresh new year. Throughout January, all 2005 merchandise is marked down, with discounts becoming more shocking and delightful the weekend of January 19-22 (up to 70%, dearies). Come for the fashion show, stay for the sale...

It will be spring before you know it. We've got that tingly feeling already...