Nov 24, 2015

Seattle Shopping Guide: Queen Anne


The Queen Anne neighborhood shopping guide is here!

Queen Anne is one of my favorite neighborhoods of all time. Never mind that I live and work here on the hill, that in itself makes me only slightly partial, but it's the amazing business owners that work hard to curate the best mix of products in order to create a unique shopping experience on the hill that I absolutely love. Seattleites are lucky to have so many independent boutiques to shop from and we know how important it is to #ShopLocal this holiday season in order to help these businesses thrive. Whether you're a native, or just visiting the Emerald City on a quick trip, we hope you enjoy this round-up of Queen Anne boutiques to check out on your next shopping adventure.


Queen Anne Dispatch
Not only do I personally love this little neighborhood boutique, but it's been a favorite of residents on the hill since it was founded in 1987 by owner Jan Paolini. The shop is now run by Jan's daughters, Tara and Sabrina and continues to stock a great mix of merchandise including apparel, accessories, jewelry, gifts, toys and more from brands like French Connection, Kelsi Dagger, Mavi Jeans, Butter London, Hanky Panky and Vince Camuto. They even gift wrap, pack and ship, making any gift-giving occasion a breeze. The staff is well-versed on product knowledge and always eager to help.
2212 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109
www.queenannedispatch.com


Three Birds Home  
For decorative home accents and great gifts including housewares, head to Three Birds Home. Owner Robin Johnson shops markets in NY, LA and San Fran to purchase gorgeous ceramics, beautiful table linens, candles, soaps, picture frames, wall art and more.
2107 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109
www.threebirdshome.com

Meadow
Tucked along sixth avenue west on Queen Anne, Meadow boutique carries apparel, accessories, outerwear, shoes and home decor at prices that won't break the bank. (We're talking dresses under $50 and kitchen items like decorative recipe cards as low as $6.) Owner Shelley Hall regularly stocks local favorites including Sweet Petula Soaps, Woo + Co. Candles, Leah Pastrama jewelry and more. This boutique may be off the beaten path, but it's certainly worth the adventure and there's plenty of free street parking nearby.
1959 6th Ave. W. Seattle, WA 98119
www.meadowseattle.com

Once Upon a Time 
Red Tricycle voted this store the "Most Awesome Baby Boutique" and for good cause. This store has an amazing selection of children's clothing, toys, art supplies, gifts, games, and more. This is a must-visit store for baby showers and gifts for little ones and mamas alike.
1622 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109
www.onceuponatimeseattle.com

Stuhlbergs
Located at the top of Queen Anne, Stuhlberg's has been one the city's favorite independently-owned home accessory stores since 2002. Owner and co-founder Megan Stuhlberg carefully curates a beautiful mix of products from brands like Jonathan Adler, Juliska, Simon Pearce, Votivo and more. At Stuhlbergs, you'll find great gifts like soaps and candles for the home, toys, books and even stuffed animals for kids.
1801 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109
www.stuhlbergs.com


Bella Fiore Organic Med Spa
Although Bella Fiore isn't technically a boutique, you can certainly shop here for beauty products and book services when you visit Queen Anne. In stock now you'll find Kari Gran Starter Kits, Osmosis Skin Care, and more.
1629 Queen Anne Ave. N. #103 Seattle, WA 98109
www.bellafioremedspa.com

Queen Anne Books
There's something magical about wandering into a neighborhood bookstore and escaping into a world of literary insight and adventure. Queen Anne Books has great books for kids, travelers, culinary enthusiasts and even has a small fashion section. You'll frequently find local authors doing book signings in the store so be sure to check the website for a current line-up of events. Queen Anne Books is also a great place to shop for gifts.
1811 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109
www.qabookco.com

Peridot
This adorable boutique has finally moved to the top of the hill. Now located next door to Starbucks, Peridot is a stylish boutique that stocks a variety of budget-friendly fashion brands for women including apparel, accessories, outerwear and even loungewear. Shoppers will also find great jewelry and home goods including Voluspa candles, which make great gifts for the holiday season!
2135 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109
www.peridotboutique.wordpress.com













No need to shop till you drop. There are plenty of places to Queen Anne to fuel up while you explore the neighborhood.

The 5 Spot
Hands down, The 5 Spot is one of my favorite places to dine on the hill when I'm in the mood for comfort food.  The menu is constantly changing but does offer regular regional staples like grilled salmon, cod & chips and a basic burger. Great for breakfast, lunch or dinner, The 5 Spot does not disappoint. If you're kid-free, grab a seat in the bar for faster service. If you plan to dine for brunch on a Saturday or Sunday morning be prepared to wait in line.
1502 Queen Anne Ave N. Seattle, WA 98109
www.chowfoods.com/5-spot

Le Reve
Even Parisians love this French-inspired bakery on the hill. Known for their flakey twice-baked almond croissants and buttery Quiche Lorraine, Le Reve is the perfect place to recharge when you're shopping on the hill. Everything is baked fresh and perfect for sharing. This time of year the " Le Gobbler" sandwich is a hit featuring turkey, gouda cheese, caramelized onions and housemade cranberry sauce on a croissant.
1805 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109
lerevebakery.com

Bounty Kitchen
Committed to organic ingredients and healthy eating, Bounty Kitchen offers imaginative salads and healthy bowls featuring fresh fruits and vegetables. With numerous vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options there's something for everyone on the menu, including kids. The Detox Wagon salad is delish and has dried blueberries, hemp seeds, chevril and avocado over a bed of kale and arugula. It's the equivalent of a green juice except you actually get to chew.
7 Boston St. Seattle, WA 98109
bountykitchenseattle.com

Paragon
For lunch or dinner, Paragon is a great pick on Queen Anne and has LIVE music 5 nights a week. The menu features All-American food with Southern accents including the popular Paragon Burger, jambalaya, or for something more indulgent, the smoked gouda mac and cheese. If you arrive early, you can snag the coveted corner booth.
2125 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109
paragonseattle.com

El Diablo
Although you can order food here like empanadas and burritos, it's the coffee that keeps people coming back for more. If you've never experienced authentic Cuban coffee, you'll definitely want to stop by for a cafe con leche. There's a reason El Diablo has a cult following. It's that good. And that's coming from someone who usually drinks her coffee black. You can thank me later.
1811 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109
www.eldiablocoffee.com















- 2-hour parking is free on Queen Anne but the meter maids are constantly patrolling and will issue tickets, so if you plan to shop and stay awhile, park in the neighborhoods instead of on the main ave.

- Free underground parking garages are located under Bartells, Menchies and Trader Joes. The entrances are located behind the building off the alley.

- The Queen Anne Farmers Market runs on Thursdays from June to mid-October. 
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Seattle Shopping Guide: Ballard



If chain stores just don't cut it and you're looking for an authentic Seattle shopping experience, head to Ballard. Located just north of downtown, Ballard is an urban little neighborhood lined with coffee shops, bars and some pretty great boutiques. Here's a round-up of our favorite places to shop, spa and socialize.


Horseshoe
Located on Ballard Avenue, Horseshoe prides itself on providing clients with "down home" customer service. Originally from Denver, owner Hill Andersen regularly stocks women's apparel and accessories from a variety of contemporary brands including Veronica M., Prairie Underground, Suzabelle, Sol Angeles, Bailey 44 and more.
5344 Ballard Ave NW Seattle, WA 98107
www.shoehorseshoe.com

Ketch
Since 2010 Ketch has been providing Ballard shoppers with casual apparel that is perfect for the Pacific Northwest. Labels include Joie, Callahan, Capulet and more. They even carry gameday gear including Seahawks tees, UW sweatshirts, and loungewear. Guys, don't worry, they've got a small section of merchandise from brands like Retro and Obey for you too.
5317 Ballard Ave. NW Seattle, WA 98107
www.ketchshop.com

Prism
Part retail space, part gallery spot, Prism in Ballard is a unique and highly curated shopping experience. Shoppers will find a mix of apparel for men and women plus grooming supplies, accessories, housewares and even gifts.
5208 Ballard Ave NW Seattle, WA 98107
https://prismseattle.com/

Venue
With the goal of promoting and supporting artists that live and work in the city, Venue is a Seattle-centric collective featuring retail space and studio/office space for artists. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, Venue highlights everything from handmade art to artisanal chocolates and other creative gifts. This is a great place to shop locally during the holiday season.
5408 22nd Ave NW Seattle, WA 98107
www.venueballard.com

Lucca
This elegant one-of-a-kind gift shop has a distinctive European style and specializes in stocking an edited assortment of home decor, stationary, vintage furniture, books, tea and skincare. In stock now you'll find vintage apothecary jars, bath and body products by Tokyo Milk, Potluck Paris jewelry, Sweet Petula soaps (great local line!), and a full alphabet of porcelain letters. Gift wrap is also available making gift-giving easy and fun.
5332 Ballard Ave. N.W. Seattle, WA 98107
www.luccagreatfinds.com



Bastille
Hands down my favorite restaurant in Ballard, Bastille serves its signature French cuisine using ingredients sourced from local "farmers, foragers and fisherman". The menu includes frites & aioli, a heavenly Bastille burger featuring arugula and pickled onions, heirloom carrot salad, chickpea fries, and even local oysters.  Don't miss the cool ambiance of the back bar. Head back for a drink while you wait for a table or play it cool and dine in the back with the locals.
5307 Ballard Ave. N.W. Seattle, WA 98107
www.bastilleseattle.com

Zayda Buddy's 
Dubbed as Seattle's only Minnesota-style pizzeria, Zayda Buddy's serves up delicious pizzas, midwestern fare and has a full bar. On the menu you'll find cheddar cheese and chili fries, a tater tot casserole, and a "Ballard Bridge" pizza which is a local favorite. The restaurant is part bar, part booth-style seating for families, so feel free to bring the kids. This is a great spot for Sunday brunch after hitting the Ballard Farmers Market.
5404 Leary Ave. N.W. Seattle, WA 98107
www.zaydabuddyspizza.com

La Isla
A delicious spread of traditional Puerto Rican cuisine awaits at La Isla in Ballard. The restaurant started as a Fremont Sunday market food vendor and quickly grew a loyal following. The rest is history. The La Isla menu includes empanadas filled with pulled pork, ground beef and tender chicken, camarones (butterflied prawns sautéed in olive oil, garlic and white wine) and Pernil Divino (marinated pork shoulder) served with rice, beans and tostones.
2320 NW Market St. Seattle, WA 98107
laislacuisine.com

Cupcake Royale 
If you've got a sweet tooth you'll definitely want to check out the decadent treats at Cupcake Royal. Since 2003, Cupcake Royale has been serving up tasty treats that are made from scratch every single day. They even have gluten-free cupcakes, baby cakes, cake pops and bakeshop-inspired ice cream. This year's seasonal flavors include White Chocolate Cranberry, Maple Sweet Potato, Eggnog Snickerdoodle and of course, classic Gingerbread.
2052 NW Market St. Seattle, WA 98107
www.cupcakeroyale.com



The Ballard Farmers Market happens every Sunday rain or shine from 10am-3pm between Vernon Pl NW and 22nd Ave NW. The street is shut down to cars but there's plenty of parking available on side streets and around the neighborhood. On Sundays, all meters are free.

The Ballard Art Walk happens on the 2nd Saturday of every month from 6-9pm.

If you're looking for skin care in Ballard, check out esthetician Susan Grace and her Partly Sunny Skin Care line which is specially formulated for Pacific Northwest skin conditions. www.susangraceskincare.com

For spa services in Ballard, check out Habitude, located just down Market street. The spa offers express massages starting at $65 and have services from massages to reflexology for men and women.

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Nov 16, 2015

Free yoga series at Jujubeet


Avoid seasonal meltdowns and nourish your body from the inside out before hitting the holiday party circuit this year. Join yogi Andi Wardinsky and Jujubeet for a series of free community yoga sessions starting on Saturday, December 5th at the University Village Jujubeet location. Classes start at 8:15am and are free to the public. Guests will get to sample Dragonfly Nutrition bars, taste signature juices and have the chance to chat with Jujubeet dietitian Elena Razmpoosh to learn more about juicing to support your health and wellness goals. Yoga sessions run Dec. 5-19th and will resume in the New Year.


What: Free community yoga at Jujubeet

When: Saturdays, 8:15am (Dec.5-19th and starting again in the New Year)

Where: Jujubeet Seattle 4915 25th Ave. NW Seattle, WA 98105 (just past University Village)

Why: Because you need a moment of calm during the chaos of the holiday season

Note: Bring your own mat. Parking is free in the underground parking garage.

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Nov 15, 2015

Seattle Fashion Directory: Handbags

Navigating the Seattle fashion scene is easy when you know where to shop. Here's the inside scoop on Seattle's best handbag lines and where you can shop for them locally.


Ampersand as Apostrophe
Featuring clean design details the Ampersand as Apostrophe line created by Seattle designer Jessica Park is a local style staple. The minimalist collection features utilitarian-style mailbags, luxe leather reversible totes, convertible shoulder bags and more. The parcel bags are a personal favorite due to their versatility, but the entire line is beautifully crafted and built to last. Shop locally at Hitchcock Madrona 1406 34th Ave. Seattle, WA 98122. 


Such Sweet Tierney
Designed by husband and wife team London Tierney and Christian Perry, Such Sweet Tierney is a gorgeous collection of hand-printed textiles that are assembled into everything from tea towels to tote bags. All designs are rendered onto paper with pens and paint, then manually screen-printed in Pioneer Square using eco-friendly, water-based inks. Shop online or check out the bags in person at Seattle boutique Velouria, located at 145 S. King St. Seattle, WA 98104. 



Pine + Boon
I first stumbled upon Pine + Boon products at Moorea Seal's shop in Belltown and have been following the line ever since. Created by Jess Marie Griffith, who runs a small design studio in Seattle, the Pine + Boon line features suede totes, leather bags with hand-painted graphic prints, coin purses and more. Shop locally at Moorea Seal in Belltown or online at PineandBoon.com



Glittersweet
Colorful enough to brighten even the gloomiest day, Glittersweet bags are made for Pacific Northwest living. Designed to sparkle in the sun and stand up to the rain, the entire line is made of high-quality vinyl and produced locally in Sodo. Seattle sports fans will want to make note of the capsule collection designed especially for 12th fans. Shop locally for Glittersweet bags at Phinney Books located at 7405 Greenwood Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98103. (Update: September 2017 - Glitter has closed)



BEVÉE
After founding the nail polish line butter LONDON, Seattle entrepreneur Sasha Muir set her sights on the world of accessories. Inspired by working women in need of functional yet fashion-forward accessories, Sasha developed BEVÉE (pronounced beh-vay), a line of convertible wallets and handbags that transition from office to evening in a click. The detachable billfold is one of my favorite features of the line! These bags are great for travel and come in a rainbow of colorways to suit your mood. (Update: September 2017 - BEVÉE has closed)



Bag, Borrow or Steal
When Jennifer Hudson wowed Sarah Jessica Parker with her patchwork Louis Vuitton rental in the first Sex & The City movie, Bag Borrow or Steal became a household name. Located in Seattle, the designer handbag rental site brings luxury fashion to the masses. 100% of the items on the site are verified for authenticity and the site regularly stocks on-trend pieces from designers like Balenciaga, Gucci, Chanel and Hermes. Bag Borrow or Steal offers free standard shipping and includes damage insurance in the price of each rental.



Alice Noon
Based in Fremont, the Alice Noon line, designed by Tiffany Eley, is carefully handcrafted using oil tanned leather and suede to produce unique handbags perfect for everyday wear. The line includes shoulder bags, duffles, shopping totes and even backpacks. Shop online, or check out select bags at Les Amis, located at 3420 Evanston Ave. N. 98103.


Haiku
If you're on the hunt for an eco-friendly bag that is great for travel, look no further than Haiku. The Passage duffle (pictured above) is made from more than 38 recycled plastic bottles and has a vegan leather applique, detailed embroidery, plus a water-resistant interior and coating. You can even slip a yoga mat or jacket through the front slip pocket. Shop online at HaikuBags.com.


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Nov 13, 2015

3 PNW jewelry designers you need to know right now


Accessories can make or break an outfit, which is why I never leave home without them. The truth is, simply adding a great necklace can instantly transform a look and update your wardrobe for the season without breaking the bank. Here's a look at 3 pretty incredible jewelry designers that you need to put on your radar right now.


Dreamy, minimalist jewelry that is perfect for everyday wear. Say hello to Masha Moon. The entire line is handcrafted in Seattle and includes bracelets, necklaces, cartilage earrings, gold-filled rings and more. Shop online or check out the Masha Moon collection in person at the Found & Gathered pop-up on Dec. 12th. 


Speaking of amazing accessories, here's your first look at the debut line from Rogue T&K. Designed with maximum versatility in mind, this line merges natural materials like freshwater pearls with mixed metals to create unique pieces that are perfect for the Pacific Northwest. Wood pieces for the line are hand cut and dyed in vegetable juices, making them eco-friendly and vegan too! Check out the Rogue T&K line and meet Katrina, one of the designers of the line at RAWk Seattle on December 3rd at Foundation nightclub. 



Just north of Seattle in Vancouver, British Colombia, designer Emmy Trinh is busy making gorgeous jewelry inspired by architecture, nature and visual elements of the west coast. Celebrating one year in business last month, Emmy's namesake line features delicate bracelets, gold-dipped crystal necklaces, onyx earrings and more. The Emmy Trinh jewelry collection is designed for everyday wear and combines quality materials with classic shapes. Shop locally for select Emmy Trinh pieces at 8telier, located at Pacific Place. You can also locate additional stockists on her website

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Nov 3, 2015

Gala Guide: 5 Outfits + Accessories


Seattle-based online boutique JJ Caprices has you covered when it comes to sparkly accessories that shine this holiday season. Get gala ready with chandelier earrings, statement bracelets and ornate rings. Here's a look at a few of our favorite pieces for the holiday party season.


Golden Glamour is a major trend for the holidays and designers have gone all out with gorgeous gowns adorned in glitter, sequins, and beautiful metallic fabrics. Perfect for festive parties and gala events, the golden glamour trend is sure to be a showstopper.  Shown above: Dress, Badgley Mischka. Earrings, Drop earrings by LK Designs available at JJCaprices.com. Lipstick, Gucci Iconic Red. Shoes, Aquazarra.


Take a trip to the dark side this holiday season with lace, matte lipstick and ornate accessories. Shown above: Dress, Marchesa Notte. Necklace, Pearl with crystals by Maodun. Lipstick, Nars Audacious. Shoes, Sebastian Milano.


The little black dress is a classic and provides the perfect backdrop for incredible accessories. Elegant earrings instantly dress up this look and a soft pink lip adds a beautiful final touch. Shown above: Dress, Nha Khanh. Earrings, Filigree drop earrings from LK Designs. Shoes, Jimmy Choo. Lipstick, Christian Louboutin available exclusively at Nordstrom.
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