Seattle in Bloom: Local Hotels Celebrate Guests with Fresh Flowers

Downtown Seattle hotels are celebrating their guests by treating them to beautiful bouquets of flowers from Pike Place Market. Every day in August, the first 100 people to stop by the Visitor Information Center at Pike Place Market (located on the corner of 1st Ave. and Pike) with their hotel confirmation will receive a $15 Bloom Bucks voucher redeemable for a Pike Place Market bouquet. 

A variety of local hotels are participating in this program including Four Seasons Seattle, Thompson Seattle, Hotel Monaco, Fairmont Olympic, Grand Hyatt, Hotel Sorrento, Hotel Theodore, and more. For a full list of participating hotels click here. Fine print: One voucher per hotel reservation, while supplies last. 

Pike Place Market began selling produce to the public in 1907 and grew to 76 stalls with the first three months. By 1922, the market expanded to 11 buildings and spanned nine acres along the Seattle waterfront. Plan your visit and learn more about this historic market here. 

Photo credit: Vivian Hsu Photography

I Know A Place: Seattle Fashion Edition

As a long-time Seattleite who loves exploring, I know many places around town that truly make this city a magical place to live. We have gorgeous bodies of water surrounding us, clear skies, clean air, and innovative ideas. My friends frequently come to me to ask for recommendations on hidden gems around town like must-visit boutiques and great places to dine with kids. I constantly find myself saying the phrase, "I Know A Place", so it's only fitting that Visit Seattle asked to highlight a few of my favorite places for their spring campaign. Long-time readers may remember that I partnered with them last fall on a series of posts about where (and how) to shop locally during the holiday season. You can view those posts here, here, and here. 

For our latest collab, I explored the city through a fashion lens by visiting beloved book stores, new pop-ups, and indie shops that are too good to miss. My family and I capped the day with a delicious dinner at Goldfinch Tavern before turning in for the night at the Four Seasons. Here's an overview of our itinerary filled with insider tips for safely exploring the city in style. 

I know a place....that curates a gorgeous assortment of global fashion brands. 

Flora & Henri has been locally owned and operated since 1998. The Seattle concept shop located on the corner of First and Jackson in Pioneer Square is visually stunning and perfectly curated with beautiful products for the entire family. At Flora & Henri, you'll find a mix of local favorites like handbags from Ampersand as Apostrophe merchandised next to dreamy, global favorites like dresses from Italian brand Loretta Caponi. View a round-up of my favorite spring must-haves here. 

I know a place...where you can shop local for ethically made clothing and shoes.

Clementine's in Pioneer Square offers fashion fans a unique place to shop from small brands who value slow fashion. Owner Linda Walsh is passionate about providing an inclusive space for people to make conscious fashion choices. Featured brands include Paloma Wool, People Tree, and Prairie Underground. The store is currently open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

I know a place...where you can shop an amazing selection of local authors. 

If the pandemic was good for anything, it was simply to remind us that we're always just one book away from a great escape. Elliott Bay Book Co. on Capitol Hill is a full-service, locally owned bookstore home to over 150,000 titles. As a lifelong bookworm and #ShopLocal fan, I love the fact that they give valuable shelf space to local authors including astrologer Stephanie Gailing, who released not one, but TWO books during quarantine. Stephanie's latest books, The Complete Book of Dreams and The Complete Guide to Astrological Self-Care offer readers a holistic approach to everyday wellness. As a Virgo, I'm a big fan of astrological insight and after devouring Stephanie's dream book, I'm really excited to dive into her self-care guide that features sections for each of the twelve zodiac signs. 

* Elliott Bay Book Co. also carries the Seattle Style: Fashion/Function book by MOHAI curator Clara Berg, which originally accompanied the 2019 Seattle fashion exhibit.  

I know a place...where you can shop one of Seattle's best heritage brands. 

Filson has been around since 1897, originally outfitting prospectors passing through the city on their way to the Klondike gold rush. The Seattle flagship is a fun place to experience the roots of the brand and witness its evolution. In addition to shopping in person, customers can opt for curbside pick-up for orders made over the phone. Same day delivery services are also being offered from the flagship store within a specific radius. Visit the store later this month and you'll be among the first to experience new arrivals to Filson's limited-edition Smokey Bear Collection, a continued partnership designed to communicate the importance of wildfire prevention. New products from this special collection will be available at the Flagship starting on May 28. The product mix includes a variety of must-have items including a Smokey Bear enamelwear camp set, authentic ranger hat, and full zip hoodie. 

I know a place...where you can shop an incredible selection of international fashion magazines.

Earlier this year, Big Little News quietly opened up shop on Capitol Hill. Woman-owned and operated, this hidden gem is brimming with specialty magazines like British Vogue, Elle UK, Paris Vogue, and more. In addition, you'll also find indie magazines that cover a variety of interests and must-have items to accompany your reading material, like bottles of champagne and giant boxes of candy. 

I know a place...where you can shop a limited time pop-up featuring amazing brands. 

Seattle's beloved Baby & Co. boutique closed its doors locally last summer due to the pandemic but they're back in town for a limited time only as part of the 10th Ave Collective Pop-Up happening now through June 6. Located on Capitol Hill in the old Totokaelo space, the 10th Ave Collective features apparel and accessories from Baby & Co., art from Robin Layton, and home goods from Susan Wheeler. I picked up a bottle of the Poets of Berlin perfume by Vilhelm while I was at the shop this weekend and it has quickly become my new favorite fragrance. 

I know a place...where you can shop a great mix of local designers that handmake their goods in Seattle.

Located in Belltown, Sassafras is a retail shop and fashion studio home to a variety of local brands including Stone Crow Designs, Bartle B., and La Macón by Shari Noble. The shop is a hub for independent fashion designers from around the city and offers a great way for fashion fans to shop a selection of local brands all under one roof. Personal shopping appointments are available and can easily be booked online.  

I know a place...where you can enjoy an amazing dinner complete with sweeping views of the Puget Sound. 

Goldfinch Tavern, located at the Four Seasons, serves up Pacific Northwest-inspired cuisine featuring locally-sourced ingredients. From the drinks menu, start with the Smoked Manhattan and then move on to my favorite main course: Cedar Plank King Salmon served with vegetables from Pike Place Market. As a side dish, you have to try the Goldfinch Lobster Mashers. I'm still dreaming about the decadence of this acclaimed side dish.  Insider tip: Flat rate parking is available when dining at the restaurant. 

I know a place...where you can escape the ordinary and enjoy a staycation in the heart of the city. 

Four Seasons Seattle is the perfect place to visit when you need to recharge but want to stay in the city. We loved the views from our room of the Washington State Ferries and of the iconic Seattle Great Wheel. Room service is a must for breakfast (my daughter highly recommends the blueberry pancakes) and if you have time, the spa is a magically rejuvenating place that is good for both the body and soul. The Infinity Pool overlooking Puget Sound is also open daily for guests from 6  a.m. to 9 p.m. 

What are your favorite places to shop around town? I'd love to hear from you! Send me an email or leave me a comment on this post and tell me your favorite shops to explore around town. 

* This post was written in partnership with Visit Seattle. 

10 Must-Have Spring items from Flora & Henri

Spring has finally arrived in Seattle and when it comes to seasonal essentials that transcend the test of time, Seattle boutique Flora & Henri in Pioneer Square has you covered. From easy accessories to summer hats and apparel, there's something for everyone to enjoy. 

Aisley Hat by Janessa Leone - The easiest way to finish off a spring outfit is with a stylish hat. This one by Janessa Leone is lightweight and comes in a neutral color that looks great with just about everything.  Handwoven with Panama straw. Made in the USA. 

Flora & Henri Silk Satin Floral Dress - This delicate dress is made from 100% silk and features an elastic waist, self-tie belt, and adjustable straps. Perfect for breezy summer days and long summer nights. Pair with a white sneaker and classic denim jacket. 

The Great College Sweatshirt - During the pandemic, sweatshirts became like a second-skin to me. I lived in them and loved the warm embrace.  These pieces will transition well into summer when paired with shorts or jeans on a cool summer day. The Great College sweatshirt is based on a vintage style and features double-washed terry for a soft hand feel. 

Alumnae Knotted Sandal - Made in Italy, these comfortable leather sandals will be a staple in your spring wardrobe. Hand-knotted and featuring covered elastic, the Alumnae Nappa Luna Sandal will quickly become the go-to shoe in your wardrobe this season. 

Sydney Evan Cherry Necklace - Easy accessories are the PERFECT way to transition your wardrobe into spring. I love this cherry necklace by Sydney Evan. It's made from 14k yellow gold and has pavé black diamonds and gorgeous green emeralds. This necklace makes a great gift, too!

Veja Kid Sneakers - We can't forget about the "littles" in our life when it comes to spring fashion. I love these Veja Kid velcro sneakers available at Flora & Henri. These eco-friendly shoes are made in Brazil using wild rubber from the Amazonian forest. Fashion mamas can get themselves matching shoes, too. 

Tensira Apron - I didn't suddenly start baking sourdough bread during quarantine, but I did start cooking more and found myself constantly reaching for a durable apron. I love this one from Tensira, which is named after a small village in the Republic of Guinea known for its specialization in dyeing with indigo. 

Brass Watering Can - "Watering Wednesdays" is a thing at my house and since it's official, I've decided that I might as well water my plants with the most stylish watering vessel I can find. Thankfully, flora & henri stocks a brass watering can by Ilse Crawford for Skultuna that I am obsessed with. Not only does it elevate a tedious task, but it also brings joy with repeated use. Take my word for it. 

Yves Saint Laurent Book - Flora & Henri curates a great selection of books for every type of reader. I'm particularly drawn to books about fashion, like the Yves Saint Laurent biography, available in hardcover. It's a beautiful coffee table book filled with interesting insight on the French fashion designer. 

Seedlip Non-Alcoholic Spirits - Raise your hand if you're guilty of drinking a little too much during COVID. (If you're not raising your hand, you are either under 21 or you're lying). Made in my favorite city in the world, London, these spirits are non-alcoholic and perfect for those who want to partake in the festivities without drinking actual alcohol. Sugar-free, calorie-free, and perfect for sipping, this one tastes like Allspice and cardamom with a fresh citrus top note. 

If you've been craving a fashion field trip lately, I highly encourage you to visit Flora & Henri in Seattle's historic Pioneer Square neighborhood. Street parking is readily available and if you come during the day (Monday through Friday) you can stop by General Porpoise for a freshly baked donut on the way out. 

Flora & Henri is located on the corner of 1st and Jackson at 401 First Ave. S. Seattle, WA 98104. Shop online or visit the Seattle store. Head over to their website for current operating hours. 

10th Ave Collective Hosts May Popup Featuring 6 Seattle Businesses

In an effort to bring back a sense of community to Capitol Hill, a small collective of local businesses will band together under one roof to host a month-long pop-up shop in the space formerly occupied by Seattle boutique Totokaelo. Starting on Friday, May 7th, and running through June 6, 2021, a multifaceted pop-up will emerge featuring book signings, designer features, shopping, and a listening lounge. Participating businesses include Baby & Co. (men's and women's fashion), Tune Hi-Fi (home audio), Fleurish (floral design studio), Robin Layton (artist and photographer), Susan Wheeler Home (housewares and decor), and Easy Street Records. 

"After a year of hardship and separation, we want to create a vibrant environment that enhances the 10th avenue restaurant and street scene to revive a feeling of community," says Baby & Company owner Jill Donnelly. Due to the pandemic, Baby & Co. was forced to close its First Avenue storefront and transition into a new space in Sun Valley, Idaho. The Donnelly's are excited to be back in Seattle for this special pop-up to reconnect with friends and fellow fashion fans. The gallery-inspired retail space will be open Wednesday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and will also host weekly open house events on Friday evenings. 

Line-up of events:

● Friday, May 7: Welcome Back, Baby! Mother’s Day gift ideas featuring fragrances from Vilhlelm Parfumerie, bouquets from Fleurish, and a signing of Robin Layton’s photography book The Lake.

● Friday, May 14: At Home showcase featuring Susan Wheeler Home, flowers from Fleurish, and a listening lounge with Tune Hi-Fi sponsored by Easy Street Records.

● Friday, May 21: Made in LA designer capsule event featuring Los Angeles–based designers sold at Baby & Company, including Jaga, Esquivel Shoes, Louiza Babouryan, and MATiAS Denim.

Pop Up Details

What: 10th Ave Collective Pop-Up 

When: May 7 - June 6, 2021

Where: 1523 10th Ave. Seattle, WA 98122

The popup will follow the CDC’s COVID-19 guidelines and city mandates requiring the wearing of face masks, limiting capacity, and requesting that shoppers maintain six feet of social distance.

Grab your friends and come #ShopLocal at this fun Seattle pop-up that's around for a limited time only. 

Travel Inspiration from Pacific Northwest Bloggers

The Port of Seattle recently published a round-up of BIPOC travel influencers to follow for travel inspiration and they kindly included me in their list. I'm in great company, alongside Andrew Hoge, Antonio Smith, Carolyn Yuen Marino, Jennifer George, Mariame Sanoh, Sahily Perez, and more. If you're experiencing cabin fever and need some safe staycation ideas, go through the list and follow these amazing content creators. 

View the entire post here. 

Insider's Guide to #DoSomethingNearby in Seattle's Southside

The holidays are here and local businesses are eager to help you shop, dine, and experience the magic of the season in a safe and responsible way. Visit Seattle recently launched a "Do Something Nearby" campaign to encourage locals to get out and do something to support local businesses. This season, every little bit helps, so whether you're ordering take-out from your favorite neighborhood restaurant or stocking up on gifts from local boutiques, we can each do something to make a difference in our community. Here's your Insider's guide to #DoSomethingNearby in Seattle's Southside. 

Eat

Burien Press - Since 2009, Burien Press has been keeping the South Sound hydrated with coffee, natural wine, and craft beer. They also serve light bites like house-made biscuits with strawberry jam, sticky buns, and scones. Open for takeaway every day until 7 p.m. 

Spice Bridge Global Food Hall - Home to Seattle's Food Business Incubator program, Spice Bridge helps women of color in South King County start and grow a thriving food business. At Spice Bridge, you'll experience foods from around the world. Check out the featured food stall vendors here. 

Classic Eats - Self-described as a "low-key diner" with classic American staples, Classic Eats has everything from meatloaf sliders to pulled pork sandwiches and chicken pot pie. There's something for everyone on the menu and you can even order online. 

Pigfish - Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Pigfish is located in the center of Old Burien and the menu features fish and chips, classic burgers, and hot sandwiches served with hand-cut fries. During the holidays they're offering daily specials for take-out or delivery. 

Burien Fish House - This month Burien Fish House is celebrating 5 years in business. The menu includes cod, salmon, and halibut fish & chips, fish tacos, po-boy sandwiches, and seafood chowder. Digital gift cards are also available and make great stocking stuffers for the seafood lovers in your life!

Anthony's Home Port - If you're craving seafood, you can't forget about Anthony's Home Port in Des Moines. They are a Pacific Northwest staple in my book and the food is consistently delicious and fresh. The menu includes award-winning clam chowder, salmon tacos, fish & chips, lobster fettuccini, and more. Order online for takeaway or eat outside on the heated patio. 

Copperleaf Restaurant -  Located at Cedarbrook Lodge, Copperleaf Restaurant is currently offering an outdoor "Camp Copperleaf" dining experience, daily from 5-9 p.m. The menu includes salads, sandwiches, burgers, and warm soups. They even have camp desserts like Mason Jar Creme Brulee and Dark Chocolate Pot Au Creme. 

Shop

The Shoppe Seahurst - Locally owned by Beka Atwood, The Shoppe Seahurst has a perfectly curated assortment of gifts, home goods, and accessories that are PERFECT for the gift-giving season. The selection includes custom prints, neighborhood blankets, candles, pillows, tote bags, and more. Beka is also offering curated gift boxes and curbside pick-up to make shopping easy and efficient. 

Three Tree Books - Perfectly nestled in Burien on 152nd street, Three Tree Books is open for shopping appointments and online order pick-ups. In addition to books, the shop also carries gifts like mugs, candles, puzzles, journals, teas, and more. They even have Obama's new book, A Promised Land, which I recently started reading and I can tell you, it's really good! 

Paper Delights - Locally owned and operated by stationary connoisseurs Kathy Perkins and Alicia Olsen, Paper Delights stocks a wide range of unique cards, high-quality stationery, and gifts. You can also see what's new in the store on the @PaperDelightsBurien Instagram page and call the store to place an order. If you live in the Burien area, the team will even deliver your purchase straight to your door, for free. 

Sitka Living - Specializing in local art, gifts, and bespoke furniture, Sitka Living is locally owned by Lori Glynn and Rebecca Zielinski. Located in Downtown Burien, the shop has an amazing assortment of giftable things including vintage glassware, handmade jewelry, scented candles, throw pillows, books,  ceramics, and more. 

Macadons - Technically this should be in the "eat" category but I'm making the executive decision to include this in the "shop" category because these cookies are so cute you'll want to gift them to your friends and family. For a limited time, they have a BTS Holiday Set available for pre-order. This holiday collab is in partnership with Magic Shop in Seattle, which is basically Seattle's BTS army.  Macadons offers free local delivery and they also ship nationwide. 

Play

It's a Wonderful Burien - The City of Burien is hosting a series of holiday-inspired events to celebrate the season. The line-up includes a gingerbread man-themed scavenger hunt, imaginative story walks for kids, dance parties for the whole family, and more. There's even an adorable Santa Mailbox in Town Square Park. 

Highline Seatac Botanical Garden - The holiday season can be a stressful time and that's why escaping to the Highline Seatac Botanical Garden is a must if you can carve out the time. Admission is free and the gardens are open every day from dusk until dawn, offering up the perfect excuse for a leisurely afternoon stroll. 

Stay 

Cedarbrook Lodge - Located less than five minutes away from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Cedarbrook Lodge is perfectly situated on eighteen acres of restored wetlands and is a great place to stay if you're visiting Seattle's Southside. The scenery is beautiful, the rooms are comfortable, and there's even a spa on-site offering massages, body treatments, and nail services. If you decide to visit, I highly recommend dinner at Copperleaf Restaurant. 

Today officially marks *two weeks* until Christmas but there's still time to #DoSomethingNearby to support local businesses in the community. Seattle's Southside is home to an array of amazing businesses, from restaurants to retail, there's truly something for everyone. As you get out around town, tag me in your posts @Sydlovesfashion and use the hashtag #DoSomethingNearby. Be sure to include @VisitSeattle too! We're all in this together and together we can make a difference for businesses in our community. Oh, and don't forget your mask!

Header photo credit: Demri Rayanne Photography 

Insiders Guide to #DoSomethingNearby in Bellevue

The holiday season is decidedly different this year but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the fun and festivities happening around town in a safe and responsible way. In fact, businesses in King County are counting on you to get out and celebrate the season by shopping and dining locally. Visit Seattle recently launched a "Do Something Nearby" campaign to encourage Seattleites to get out and do something.  Whether you're grabbing take-out in your neighborhood, enjoying a socially-distant glass of wine, or shopping for the loved ones on your holiday list from local boutiques, we can each do something to make a difference for the businesses in King County. While there may be modifications to the usual holiday festivities this year, there's still something for everyone to enjoy around town. 

Here's your Insider's Guide to #DoSomethingNearby in Bellevue. Pick a few places to shop, a few places to eat (or snack), add a few holiday activities, and you've got a full day! Every business featured on this list is locally owned + operated!

Eat

Jujubeet - Jujbeet believes that the foundation of a healthy diet is whole, unprocessed food. In fact, everything on their menu is made fresh and perfectly crafted to provide healthy nutrition for an on-the-go lifestyle. Female-founded and locally owned, Jujubeet has an amazing assortment of light bites, Complete Meals, and Cleanse Packages that make great holiday gifts. In addition, they also have a great retail section that includes artisanal chocolates, single-source CBD oils, cookbooks, and organic skincare. Don't miss their recently released holiday gift baskets.  

Cactus - Located at Bellevue Square, Cactus is one of my favorite places to go for Mexican food. I love their hand-crafted cocktails and inspired menu which includes a full range of my favorite dishes including the Butternut Squash Enchiladas, the Sonoran Spa chicken with cotija cheese, and the Braised Brisket Tacos. In October, Cactus invested in Needlepoint Bipolar Ionization systems for its restaurants which help kill pathogens in the air and on surfaces. Oh, and they also have a great kids menu! 

Tavern Hall - Boasting a full menu of burgers, fried chicken and waffles, and even stadium nachos, Tavern Hall at Bellevue Square is a great place to grab a bite when you're in Bellevue. Their Sesame Salmon Bowl is amazing, too! During COVID, Tavern Hall is offering delivery, takeout, and patio dining. 

Japonessa -  If you're craving sushi, don't miss Japonessa in Lincoln Square South. The menu takes traditional Japanese cooking and fuses it with hits of Latin flair including signature rolls, sashimi sets, tempura tacos, and more. Open for patio seating, take-out, curbside pick-up, and delivery. 

The Lakehouse - I've dined at The Lakehouse many times over the past few years, and I'm always inspired by the simple, yet insanely delicious food prepared by Chef Jason Wilson. Located inside W Bellevue, The Lakehouse is now doing "dinners to go" Wednesday through Saturday, with pick-up available from 4 - 6 p.m. The menu includes grilled organic carrots in a red curry cashew yogurt, Alaskan halibut, beef wagyu burgers, and grilled octopus with pancetta. Order now for dinner, date night, or even Christmas eve.

Lady Yum - For a sweet treat, I'm a BIG fan of Lady Yum's macarons. Seasonal flavors include Gingerbread Lemon, Peppermint Bark, Cherry Coconut Cordial, and Frosted Sugar Cookie, which looks strikingly similar to the macaron Baby Yoda was eating in a recent episode of The Mandalorian. The holiday packs make a great stocking stuffer or gift! 

Third Culture Coffee - For a pick-me-up while you're out shopping and enjoying the holiday festivities, don't miss Third Culture Coffee in Bellevue. It's locally-owned and completely dedicated to serving up perfectly brewed coffee and tea. Need an easy stocking stuffer? Gift cards are available for purchase online. 

Molly Moon Flagship - While many things closed during COVID, Molly Moon took the bold step of opening a brand new flagship in Bellevue. Located just a few steps from Downtown Bellevue Park, guests can visit and carry-out delicious Molly Moon ice cream. Shoppers can even peer inside Molly Moon's pastry kitchen to see the culinary team at work while they shop for gifts and splurge on a sweet treat. Shop MM merch online here. 

Shop

La Ree - Established in 2006, La Ree curates a beautiful mix of apparel and accessories for women from emerging designers and independent labels. If you have fashion fans on your list, this is a must-visit boutique in Bellevue. They also have a limited assortment of travel-sized gift sets that make great stocking stuffers! During COVID, private shopping appointments are available and can easily be booked online in advance. 

jarbo - Owned locally by Sharon Roth, jarbo creates timeless, sophisticated clothing for women. The assortment includes beautiful cashmere sweaters, goose down parkas, Italian suede bags, and even face masks and accessories. (Tip: jarbo shares a small parking lot with glassybaby and Jujubeet, so you can easily hit all 3 places when you stop by for holiday shopping). 

glassybaby - If you've never experienced glassybaby, this is the *perfect* season to discover these gorgeous local gems that make beautiful gifts. Each glassybaby is hand-blown in Seattle and made with love. In addition, a portion of the proceeds from every glassybaby sold goes back to those in need. To date, glassybaby has donated over $10.8M to charitable causes and non-profits. Gift cards are also available. 

Made in Washington - A one-stop-shop for holiday gifting, Made in Washington at Bellevue Square makes it easy to #Shoplocal for everyone on your list. From local teas, to handcrafted soaps, bath salts, regional foods, and even chocolates, Made in Washington has it all. In fact, I dedicated an entire post to my favorite holiday gift picks that you can check out here. 

City Flowers - I always say that a house is not a home without fresh flowers. City Flowers makes giving beautiful arrangements fun and easy any time of year, but especially during the holiday season.  In addition, they have great ornaments, gifts, candles, and decor. 

Farinaz - Well-known for her beautiful collection of tailored shirts and timeless fashion for women, local designer Farinaz Taghavi also has gorgeous sweaters, structured jackets, and silk blouses that make extraordinary holiday gifts. Farinaz also offers digital gift cards. Shop in person at The Bellevue Collection. 

Karan Dannenberg Clothier - Located in the Bellevue Hyatt Hotel, Karan Dannenberg Clothier carries women's clothing and accessories from brands like Adore, Hale Bob, Sympli The Best, and Myka Designs. During the holidays, Karan also stocks gorgeous gifts like gloves, hats, scarves, ornaments, and more. 

Bellevue Arts Museum - While the museum is closed due to COVID, you can still shop for gifts online and cruise by for curbside pick-up Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The epic assortment of gifts includes silk scarves, organic soaps, jewelry, ceramics, and more. 

Play

Yuan Spa - Located in Bellevue on 106th Ave N.E., Yuan Spa is just off the main strip but perfectly situated to be the "destination spa" you don't have to travel to. They are operating at a reduced capacity due to COVID but still have a full range of spa services available from facials, to signature massages, therapeutic body treatments (including a CBD body scrub!), and even an ASMR service designed for deep relaxation. Spa gift cards are also available. 

Obadiah & 02 Blow Dry Bar - "In the before", I used to get my hair done all the time and I miss the salon experience so much, so during COVID I treat myself to a "snack size experience" at the Obadiah O2 Blow Dry Bar. Everyone wears masks while in the salon and all precautions are taken to ensure your visit is a safe one. If you have beauty fans on your list, gift cards are also available and make a great stocking stuffer!

Bellevue Farmers Market -  The Bellevue Farmers Market is a non-profit dedicated to supporting small farms and businesses on the Eastside. Operating every third Saturday of the month, the next market is scheduled for Saturday, December 19th from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Bellevue Presbyterian Church. This year you can shop in person from local vendors or buy curated gift baskets online.  

Snowflake Lane - There's no parade this year, but you can still catch the holiday magic of Snowflake Lane nightly from 5-9 p.m. along Bellevue Way. Guests will get to see classic Snowflake Lane decor, enjoy holiday music, and even get caught in a surprise snow shower. 

Stay 

W Bellevue - If a staycation is in your future, I recommend a getaway at W Bellevue.  Perfectly situated on Bellevue Way in the heart of the shopping and dining scene, W Bellevue is a great home base for weekend shopping adventures and it's pet-friendly, too! Face coverings are required and COVID precautions are being taken. 

There's still time to get out and #DoSomethingNearby this holiday season! Whether you're shopping, dining, or taking in the sights and sounds of the season, there's plenty to do in Bellevue and actual people do happy dances when you support local businesses. Tag me in your posts @Sydlovesfashion and @VisitSeattle and @VisitBellevue as you shop around town and don't forget to use the hashtag #DoSomethingNearby #VisitBellevue. Wishing you a healthy & safe holiday season!