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March 9th, 2007
Does anyone else get every sickness that comes around the pike or is it just us? Our high stress level leads to a low immune system, and when you couple that with our penchant for drama you get quite a spectacle. We’ve been convinced that—just in the past three months—we’ve had Bird Flu, Tuberculosis, Bird Flu again, and now the Creeping Crud. When we were little, our mom called us “Sarah Bernhardt” when we were being overly actressy about our aches and pains. (Sarah was a silent film star, famous for her particularly overwrought style of acting.) Perhaps we still have a bit of Sarah in us now. Oh Sarah, help us get through the Crud with some glamour! (Most certainly, she would have looked much more alluring with a fistful of Kleenex than we do.) |
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Portland Picks: |
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| 1 | Because We Said So
While we generally don’t go for reality TV, we have to admit that we’re loving Bravo’s “Top Design.” We like the contestants (love Goil, Ryan…not so much), but what really sends us over the top are the judges. Our favorite is designer Kelly Wearstler, whose crimped hair gets more outrageous with each passing episode. Naturally, we’re not the only Portlanders who might admire Ms. Wearstler’s unique yet glamorous, style. Sue Augustyn, owner of said, a sparkling new store/studio in Multnomah Village, plays with similarly bold colors and classic shapes to create a graphic and modern look that’s all her own. From the bright red Chippendale chairs to the spring-green daybed and mirrored bar, said offers eye-catching custom pieces we’d love to see in our own home. While there, don’t miss the bathroom (complete with vintage cigarette holder) and the playful black-and-white ant art from Augustyn’s son. From top to bottom, the design is definitely in the details. said |
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| 2 | Now You’re Cooking We took a much-needed vacation day and headed out to Cannon Beach to recharge our batteries. We were wrecks—our brains had turned to sieves, and we found ourselves walking in circles, muttering, “Now, what did I come in here for?” It was painful to endure, and our Signif O told us later that he found it painful to watch. Uhhh boy. So back to the beach…there’s only so much staring at the sand we can do, so we decided to check out the gorgeously appointed EVOO Cooking School for a Pasta 101 class. And honestly, we thought a pasta class might be hokey, but it was sophisticated, educational, and most of all, a blast. The owners (and your chefs), Lenore and Bob, are gracious and engaging, and we’ll totally be making tortellini, ravioli and pappardelle at home on our own! With sauces! We shamelessly stuffed ourselves silly during the sauce-making portion of the afternoon, and we are definitely going back for more 101s—crepes, artisan bread, even omelets. Oooh, or should we do small plates and wine tastes? EVOO |
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| 3 | Your New (Stylish) Best Friend So we looked up Sophie of French Touch Styling. We heard she’s more like a superfun best friend who shops with you than an imposing Style Matron who says “Wear this” and “Throw that out.” And she’ll not only help with the house, but redo your wardrobe, too, all based on what you like and what fits your lifestyle. She’ll shop with you (from discount stores to high-end boutiques), laugh with you, and get to know you well enough to educate you. You can even keep her on retainer—handy for those “should I buy this?” decisions. Visit her website for rates and more information. Mention Portland Picks and receive a 20% discount off any package! French Touch Styling |
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| 4 | Not Your Neighborhood Pharmacy Pop quiz: Did you know that Portland has an indoor skateboard arena right off NE Broadway? Well, she does. It’s been hiding under our noses for years. But we found it, along with its hip streetwear-boutique neighbor called Cal’s Pharmacy. Not a skater-girl? Well, not surprisingly, neither are we—but it’s hard to avoid guys (of all ages) who don’t have some small affair with the sport—and if you have kids, they probably have a board of their own, or a Tony Hawk game! For that reason alone, Cal’s Pharmacy is a must-know stop for all their skater-boy (or girl) needs. They have more boards and wheels and knowledge than we can shake our debit card at, but our favorite part is the fashion. Cal’s Pharmacy is stocked full of fly-looking streetwear—from old-school Nike tees to high-end denim from Volcom to an entire sneaker wall. Plus they host hot local artists upstairs in their loft space. Stop by, tell ‘em we sent you, and check out the crazy skateboarding next door. It’ll make you feel like a kid again! Cal’s Pharmacy |
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| 5 | Achieve Balance…Inside and Out We have been in desperate need of a massage lately. We've been running all over town to get things done but we haven't really taken any "Me Time." So we decided to book a package at the Waterleaf Spa and Fitness Center—recently re-opened at Skamania Lodge in the beautiful Columbia River Gorge. It’s the perfect spa getaway to make you feel like you’re worlds away, but it’s just a short (and scenic) drive. Plus, they’ve newly expanded and renovated, and in celebration of their new look, when you book a soothing spa treatment between March 3 and May 5, you will receive added values you can't afford to miss! With any massage or facial, you'll receive a complimentary all-organic Uspa sampler gift (a $20 value) or a complimentary Opi nail polish and nail-care set (a $15 value) with any manicure or pedicure! Extend your retreat and spend the night at Skamania Lodge with rates starting at $129*. (Mention promotional code SPA07. Certain restrictions apply*.) |
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| 6 | Bare Essentials Once in high school, we were accosted by the hateful girl who’d stolen our best friend. “What is that smell?” she sneered. “You smell like baking.” We were, in fact, wearing the newly-issued Body Shop vanilla perfume, of which we were quite proud. Then she actually leaned in and sniffed us. Ewww! Fifteen years later, we’re still in love with anything vanilla-scented (and so are the boys. Take that, Miss Sniffy!) But not all vanillas are the same. So when we strolled into Hawthorne’s well-lit and well-stocked Escential Lotions and Oils, we were stoked. Not only do they have vanilla—three kinds!—but they have encapsulated every aromatherapy oil you could possibly conjure. Escential will also blend you a custom fragrance; they have hundreds of recipes on file. And check out the other ready-mades: handmade soaps, bath salts, locally-made Dani lotions. Massage oils. Laundry sprays by The Laundress, way preferable to Tide. Rubber duckies with devilish horns complete the bath picture. So although snotty high-school enemies get denied the best scoop, rest assured that Portland Picks readers never, ever will. Escential Lotions and Oils |
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| 7 | Like Mother, Like Daughter This is by no means new, but it is definitely a secret gem of a Pick. All those discriminating Lake Oswego Mums have been dressing their precious babes with tres chic clothes from Bambini Children's Boutique for 22 years. When we were christening our little one we went everywhere in search of the classic, old-fashioned gowns and only found it at Bambini. And then we found everything else too, egads. Oh well, nothing but the finest will do. With designer brands like Seven Jeans, True Religion and Juicy Couture to European brands such as Catimini, Petit Bateau and the French Canadian Deux Par Deux, Paul Frank, and Zutano, along with many local brands, retail therapy has never been so rewarding. They also have Bella Boutique for tweens and teens. And if you’re in need of a unique birthday party, they’ll host it. What little girl wouldn’t want a girly girl party with mini-makeovers, hair ‘twists’ and a chance to make their own lip gloss (not to mention their gift registry). After all, like mother, like daughter! |
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| Chick Picks: | |||
| 1 | Look Like a Magazine! You know those magazine editorials with the couples who look head-over-heels in love? Laughing, playing, flirting…being a little sexy... Do you ever think, "Why not me?" Well, there's no reason to let models have all the fun. Make room on your walls, toss those old photos aside, and spend some time with one of the West Coast’s hottest photographers: TJ Cameron. TJ specializes in lifestyle shoots to make you look flirty and glam, too. Just like a magazine! Tell him Portland Picks sent you! TJ Cameron, Photographer |
 tjcameron.com |
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| 2 | Give the Gift of Gab |
 theboxgirls.com |
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| 3 | See Here |
 huboptix.com |
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| 4 | Dinner Theater for the Rest of Us Tired of dragging the man to a show, or not having a place to go out with the girls? Check out “Who Stole My Dead Husband”—it’s “adult” dinner theater and loads of fun. (They are so popular now that Saturdays are sold out well in advance, but they just added Friday shows.) So call the sitter, and go have the time of your life. Tickets run between $57-67, and include the show plus a 4-course meal. Who Stole My Dead Husband? |
 who stole my dead husband.com |
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| 5 | Write On Check them out online or see them in person at ecru in the Pearl. |
 cecilyink.com |
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| Items of the week: | |||
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New Favorites from Moxie How many “save the date” cards do you have? Never fear, Moxie has your dress. From satin and chiffon to cotton and casual, they’ve got dresses for any occasion. (Even special orders for bridesmaid dresses!) Plus, mention Portland Picks and get 10% off any dress in stock until April 1st! |
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Hip Happenings: |
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| 2 | Kid Fest! This amazing weekend focuses on an active and healthy family lifestyle and raising kids successfully. Enjoy interactive exhibits for babies, kids, teens and parents, fun and entertainment like Mad Science, GameCrazy Video Interactive Zone, Extreme Rock Walls, Bungee Jumps, Sports, Education and lots of great Summer Camps, and more! What: Kid Fest |
 pintsizedproductions.com |
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| 3 | souk Membership Madness Break free of your home office or coffeeshop and work in a creative space for just $154 for one day per week for the next four weeks when you mention Portland Picks! Get busy in an authentic loft with exposed brick and lots of natural light. Like-minded, mobile professionals await you. Free espresso drinks! |
 soukllc.com |
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| 4 | Michelle DeCourcy’s Spring Line Debuts Join Michelle DeCourcy for the official launch into Spring 2007 and a special unveiling of the all-new Pink Label collection; it will be an evening of captivating festivities, champagne, and shopping! Also making its debut is Pink Label, a collection of affordable basics: tops, skirts, and dresses starting at just $62. What: Debut of Michelle DeCourcy’s spring line |
 michelldecourcy.com |
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| 5 | Power of the Purse Dinner Auction Seventeen local celebrities and community leaders have teamed up with local designers to create one-of-a-kind handbags that will be auctioned off during a fashion show. The evening will benefit Girls Incorporated of Northwest Oregon, a local nonprofit that works to inspire all girls to be strong, smart and bold. What: Second Annual Power of the Purse Dinner Auction When: Thursday, April 5, from 5:30-9 pm Where: Portland Art Museum’s Grand Ballroom. 1219 SW Park Ave., PDX Tickets: $125 each Call: 503.230.0054 Visit: www.girlsincnworegon.org |
 girlsincnworegon.org |
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| 6 | Win Passes to “I Think I Love My Wife” We have 5 free passes (good for 2 people each) to the new Chris Rock movie, “I Think I Love My Wife”—good any time at a theater near you! Tell us why your spouse is the best, and you could win a pass for two!
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 foxsearchlight.com |
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| 7 | Big Sale at Le Rouge Boutique Come check out the huge boutique-wide clearance sale at Le Rouge! Take advantage of great savings as they make room for spring/summer inventory. Save 20-75 % off brands like E.O.N, Hannah, Catherine Coatney, Danang, William Rast, Fresh T, Shine and more! Plus save on select jewelry and much more! |
 eco-girl.com |
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| 8 | Shop for DoveLewis at Bubble Boutique Showcasing some of the latest spring fashions from New York and abroad, Bubble Boutique walked the runway at Boutiques Unleashed. In the sprit of Portland's Pet Fashion Week, 15% of all sales at Bubble this weekend will go directly to DoveLewis' Pet Loss Support Program. Stunning spring styles from Paul and Joe, Cass Guy and Irene Van Ryb are all brand-new! Also: Great steals on the sale rack! What: Spring sales at Bubble Boutique When: This Friday, Sat and Sun Where: 1238 NW Glisan, PDX Call: 503.219.0098 Visit: www.bubbleboutique.biz |
 bubbleboutique.biz |
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Can’t get enough Picks? Click on our homepage, www.PortlandPicks.com for more of the good stuff. You can browse our archives or use our handy dandy Search box to find new and old favorites! |
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