Mari Vanna- A DC Restaurant GEM!

When a few friends of mine suggested that we venture to Mari Vanna this past Saturday for dinner, I was a little bit apprehensive, to say the least. Call me not cultured, but when I think of an amazing meal, Russian cuisine is not the first thing that comes to mind (no offense!). However, I was SORELY mistaken. If you have yet to attend this eatery right off of Dupont at 1149 Connecticut, you are selling yourself short. With spots in London, Moscow, LA, NY and now DC, these Russian style tapas range from lamb chops to beef stroganoff to traditional Russian borsch. With the quaint ambiance of your Nana's (or, in this case, babushka's) basement complimented by an accordion player strolling the restaurant (who I tried to give a $1 bill to, but I guess this is not Camelot's), don't nix the idea of Russian food for the night- this place is amazing!

Inauguration Fabulousness!

Unlike last inauguration, I wasn't able to attend one of the beautiful balls, but went to the ceremony during the day and watched the ball coverage from my couch in Alexandria with a class of Pinot Grigio  in hand. However, I am beyond proud that Barack Obama was elected for a second term. He is the only politician that inspires me and truly makes me want to better myself. Based on that, here are some of the highlights that I will never forget about the second inauguration of the 44th President:

• Beyonce's OUTSTANDING coverage of the National Anthem. Sometimes R&B singers of her like improvise a bit too much, but she killed it (and looked beautiful while she sang). 
• Michelle's absolutely gorgeous, new haircut. Even though boyfriends usually hate bangs, I have a feeling that they're going to be making a much stronger appearance in the next couple of months. 
• The homeless men trying to sell by shirts of Obama's face on Jay-Z's body, with the caption "Allow me to re-introduce myself...". Totally priceless, and had I not walked from Washington Circle, probably would not have seen these gems. 
• The buyouts at Jaleo and Rosa Mexicano. Never have I seen these Latino restaurants draw in such a Thomas Pink-wearing crowd. #inaugurationprobz
• Seeing Common walking in the city and Instagramming photos with random pedestrians. Pretty funny stuff, but then again, Common is down with the common folk... 
• Barack's absolutely amazing, moving speech (that went in and out through the horrible speakers that the city of DC provided for listeners on the mall. Don't worry, I caught it on YouTube after).

Whether you were one of the staffers I knew who were front and center (and I am entirely jealous of) or  watching it from your couch, it was another successful inauguration and definitely one that I won't forget!

I Don't like Blondes...

Nor do I particularly care for The Bachelor. However, SEAN LOWE, ladies?!??! If you haven't seen him yet, it doesn't matter WHAT your type is; his Southern charm and ab-tastic ways will definitely have you tuning into ABC (even though you usually consider it to be the most white trash network on modern cable). Having been heart broken by slutty  Emily Maynard (or the former Bachelorette for those of you who do not pick up the Newspaper), Sean was recruited to be the next Bachelor and there couldn't have been a better option! Now, why Sean, you ask?

1. He doesn't have a gross Redneck-y accent, but still the Southern charm. 
2. He looks like he could be on the cover of an Abercrombie bag- in a good way!
3. He doesn't make all of the girls make out with him. 
4. He doesn't discriminate; Sean has white, black, Asian, and Latina contestants available in his pool of bachelorettes. 
5. He has good teeth (and there are FEW guys out there who have good teeth)
6. He's featured Washingtonienne Leslie Murphy on the show; thanks for reppin' us DC girls Sean!
7. He gets to have hot girls all over him; GOOD FOR YOU, SEAN! ;)
8. He probably only wears a shirt 10% of the time. I wish I could walk around in a mansion scantily clothed all day- what a life!

If you have yet to tune in, you MUST see Mr. Lowe. Plus it's on Monday night; unless you're going to Industry Night somewhere, there's absolutely no excuse to not turn into Sean Lowe's charm from 8-10. 

I'm Still Exhausted from my New Year's Eve @ Shadow Room

Donned in a Selena-inspired (I'm her #1 fan) dress that I got on sale for $30 at Arden B at Providence Place Mall, I was ready to ring in 2013 with a bang. And after contemplating various New Years party spots in the city, I decided to make way to my boyfriend's personal old faithful, Shadow Room, and could not have had a better time.

 

My $75 ticket got me total open bar, which made me completely apprehensive at first; usually any open bar party consists of watered down drinks, sweaty prepsters who care barely stand up, and little to no access of the bar itself. However, Shadow Room did it right; they were mega-staffed, made the bar easy to approach, and didn't over book the party in such a way that I actually felt like I was at a private event. Furthermore, this venue which previously had a generic and mediocre club feel recently got a makeover, with red and black detailing that now looks like a chic blend of Dirty Bar and OYA.

 

After a night of Veuve, grinding the night away on the dance floor, and kissing my boo at midnight, I will most definitely be a regular at Shadow Room. One of the best New Years parties I've been to yet, this previously D-List club rang in the new year with an A+ makeover an event that will definitely make it a strong competitor on the DC club scene in 2013!

...I'm baaaaaack!

Well, the Mayans were wrong. While I thought that I'd have to accomplish everything in 2012 that was humanly possible before some type of polar shift or solar flare went down, the moral of the story is that not everything that you read on the internet is true, and that even if something is on the History Channel, it doesn't mean that it's gospel.


2012, nevertheless, was a huge year in the world of tacky-ness and guidos. Snooki had a baby. Miss Rhode Island, Olivia Culpo (who WENT TO MY HIGH SCHOOL!!) became Miss USA, and then went onto be Miss Universe this past December. And while Betsy Johnson sadly went out of business, shoe designer Jeffrey Campbell made the Lady Gaga inspired 'nightwalker' pumps accessible to peons like me in his very own line that came out for Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus.

But perhaps 2012 was even a more grandoise year for DC. While I may have moved over the bridge to...bear with me, you can say it...Alexandria, I've still been in celebratory spirits about all of the District's happenings. Some highlights? The Redskins became the NFC champions (I hate sports, but even I'll admit that it's pretty damn cool). Beautiful, Vegas-style lounges like Capitalle and Heist (R.I.P. Fly) successfully emerged throughout the city and brought with their debuts beautiful, Vegas-style crowds. But MOST importantly, the brazen, the beautiful, and the BOMB-ASS Barack Obama was reelected president, and Washingtonians at various election night parties throughout the city cheered with joy. Enough said.

In any case, I look forward to a year of ranting, raving, and writing, and doing it unapologetically in the most tacky of ways possible. Here's to an amazing 2013!

White House Holiday Recipes!

With the first of December on the horizon, I'm sure all of you are anticipating some great Christmas, Hannukah, and Kwanza (how is that even celebrated?) parties, complete with delicious cocktails, great recipes, and Holiday sweaters that are so ugly they rock. However, I'm sure like me, a lot of you love to dine exquisitely but are unsure of how to create some holiday culinary masterpieces of your own. Take Michelle Obama's word for it; these White House Holiday recipes will be sure to have your party guests buzzing (even if the domestic life isn't typically your thing):

Smoked Salmon With Peppercorn Crust and Tarragon Mustard Appetizer -- Serves 8

1 side of fresh salmon, filleted kosher salt Tarragon Mustard Sauce: 2 oz. Dijon mustard 6 oz. lowfat sour cream 1 bunch fresh tarragon, chopped; *mix all ingredients, season to taste, let stand to blend flavors Pepper Melange: 1 Tbs. each rough, cracked peppercorns using black, white, pink and szechuan peppers Outside charcoal grill with lid Double handful of wood chips, soaked in water

Light charcoal in outside grill. Allow to burn down to glowing coals while preparing salmon. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Lightly season both sides of filet with kosher salt. Using cracked peppercorns, coat both sides of salmon pressing pepper into filet well. In a large non-stick pan, heat a little vegetable oil and sear filet on both sides for about 2 minutes each. (Cut filet in half if necessary.) Place salmon on wire rack of grill. Into a small, aluminum foil lined pan, place 3 to 4 hot coals. Place some of the soaked wood chips on top of hot coals to create smoke. Place this pan inside grill on wire rack with fish. Close grill. When smoke subsides, repeat smoking process. After second time, remove salmon to baking dish and place into 325 degree oven for 7 to 10 minutes until just flaky. Remove from heat and cool. Cut into bite sized squares and serve on platter with sauce on the side.

Butternut Squash Salsa Good with Chorizo Cornbread Stuffing and as an accompaniment with turkey or chicken. Makes 1 cup.

1 tsp. olive oil 1 clove garlic, minced 1/2 c. butternut squash, diced 1/2 c. carrots, diced 1/4 c. fresh tomatoes 1 Tbs. rice wine vinegar 1 Tbs. olive oil 1 tsp. ground cumin 1/4 tsp. jalepeno chile, diced 1-2 Tbs. chopped cilantro lime juice and sugar to taste

Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in small pan and saute garlic until soft but not brown. Add squash and carrots. Cover and steam until just tender. Cool and add tomatoes. In a small bowl, mix rice wine vinegar, olive oil, cumin, jalepeno chile and cilantro. Add a little lime juice and a pinch of sugar to taste. Pour mixture over cooled vegetables and toss to mix. Serve at room tempreature. Best made ahead so flavors can blend. Store any leftovers covered in refrigerator.

Chorizo Cornbread Stuffing Makes 4 Servings

2 tsp. olive oil 1 clove garlic, minced 1/2 c. butternut squash, diced 1/4 c. carrots, diced 1/4 c. sundried tomatoes, diced 1/4 c. Chorizo sausage, cooked, drained, and crumbled  2 tsp. ground cumin 2 Tbs. white bread crumbs 1/2 c. stale cornbread, crumbled 1 egg, beaten 1-2 oz. turkey or chicken stock Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Heat olive oil in pan. Saute garlic until soft. Add squash and carrots, sauteing until tender. Add cumin, salt and pepper. Add tomatoes and warm but do not overcook. Set aside to cool. Combine cornbread, bread crumbs and Chorizo in a bowl. Add vegetable mixture and, using two forks, toss together. Add egg. Toss to mix. Add small amounts of stock, tossing mixture to achieve stuffing consistency. Bake in covered dish in 350 degree oven for 30 minutes. Optional preparation: Spread stuffing onto turkey scallopini and roll up, tucking edge under roll. Roast in 350 degree oven for 25 minutes. Slice and serve.

A Kim Kardashian Khristmas...

Dear Santa,

It's been a year of ups and downs for me. While I needed to use spell check and Lamar Odom (which isn't much help, let's be honest) to make sure that my letter to you was correct, I wanted to be sure that I gave you a list of everything I wanted this year. And, no Santa, no Birkins this year; I already have fifteen of those! This year, I would like:

1. A year's worth of extensions... you think that those Victoria Secret Angel waves are actually mine?!
2. One million extra Twitter followers so that I can beat out Paris Hilton's number. You know I'm addicted to Twitter, Santa... #KUWTK, #KKTNY... These acronyms are, like, the next LOL.
3. This time, no half-assed man. And by half-assed, I mean half black. Breaking up with my Reggie Bush was the biggest mistake of my life. 
4. More Spanx. Let's be honest; my body type warrants them (did I really just use the word 'warrant!?).
5. Anything way tight that accentuates my booty, which is all natural and even had it X-rayed on national television to shut up the haters.
6. Another facelift for my step dad Bruce.
7. More Botox. Hello, I started at age twenty!
8. Electrolysis. Let's face it Santa, I am half Armenian, after all. 

I've been very good, aside from divorcing after 72 days and not giving back my million dollar engagement ring OR gifts....

Love,

Kimmie K

Cava Mezze...Because us Greeks do it Better!

Yes, I did it. I left the District. I moved over the bridge into- gasp!- Alexandria, Virginia. And while I've always been one to never leave my beloved Northwest corridor when it came to going out for dinner, my new status as a Virginian has forced me to be more open minded when it has come to trying the restaurants in Arlington and Alexandria. The past week, I decided to take a stab at Cava Mezze, a Greek locale in Clarendon that I've heard mixed reviews on and was slightly apprehensive to try initially. My advice? DON'T BELIEVE ANYTHING NEGATIVE YOU HEAR. This place truly gives Zaytinya a run for its money, and has Greek food that channels my very own Yiayia's culinary masterpieces that I grew up with. Make a reservation, because, I don't know about the Rockville location, but the Arlington one is definitely going to book up early, but if you don't, no stress; the bar area is adorable and has some great mixologists present. Furthermore, the sultry hardwood-on-hardwood atmosphere and dim lighting makes this place perfect if you're looking to have a romantical night out, but the tapas-style menu also makes it totally appropriate if you're just looking for a fun night out with girlfriends (which is what I did). Menu items that you can't miss? Saganaki (or "cheese on fire", as my non-Greeks call it), Avgolemono (a delicious chicken, lemon, and basil soup that is perfect for a cold winter evening) and the Lollipop Chicken, with a honey-Faia sauce that is truly out of this world. Better still, the prices aren't ridiculous, and won't break the bank should you choose to check it out. So bring your inner opa! and an appetite, and check out Cava Mezze on Clarendon Boulevard in Arlington, because, yes, there are good restaurants over the bridge, too.

Thanksgiving Eve Parties!!

Because who said New Year's Eve was the biggest going out night of the year? Find your designated driver, put on your sexiest Pleasure Doing Business Skirt, clip in your extensions, and hit up one of these fabulous Thanksgiving Eve parties if you won't be venturing out of town for this Thursday's festivities:

• Spot: In the heart of down town DC, check out a straight up house and hip hop party with lots of bottle service and beats spun by DJ DynaMix. When it comes to Night Life Agency promoting  party, you just can't go wrong (At Spot, ask for Aykut Yekeler, he'll hook you up).
• M.I.A.: Though I have yet to chek out this new venue, what was formerly known as Sesto Senso (and a million other places) was recently transformed into this adorable lounge with a mostly house music scene. Also hosted by Night Life Agency, bounce back and forth between Spot and M.I.A. FYI, these places are right off of Dupont Circle should you not be familiar...
• Opera: Hosted by nightlife afficionado Dawoud Al-Khabbaz, Opera is intending to offer up the public a great party tomorrow night, but get on the guest list quickly! With DJ Ed the Bruce spinning, it's sure to sell out quickly. Plus, I love this place, because it reminds me of this lub I went to in Morrocco.
• Underground: Looking to check out a party and do something good at the same time? L.E.D. is hosting a canned food drive for those who are hungry this Thanksgiving, and will allow half-price admission to those who contribute. You can't beat that!
• Current/Rosebar: Is a party ever a party without Mike Branson? Another favored regular on the DC club scene is hosting a fabulous bash at Rosebar, the newly renovated bar in the back on Current, complete with Oriental Rugs and rose-adorned walls (very Oya-esque, I might add). I'm biased to Current, but nevertheless, if Mike's throwing it, it should be a good time.

Don't be a loser this Thanksgiving Eve; get sexxxed up and hit the town by storm!

Why Pilgrims are Sexy

Everyone always gives the Native Americans (dare I say Indians) more credit. Disney made Pocahontas. Lego made its Teepee collection. And Free People somehow made dressing like a Navajo fashion forward. But on the brink of the Thanksgiving holiday approaching this Thursday, I was thinking; Modest is hottest, and pilgrims are kind of sexy if you think about it:

• Blacks and greys are always the most slimming of colors. Plus, the women probably didn't have a lot of food on the Mayflower, so had a very emmaciated, Kate Moss-esque look going on.
• They read the Bible frequently, and everyone loves a good Christian.
• They had families with up to ten children, which means that they were frisky once those borderline-burqas came off.
• In the Disney movie Pocahontas, John Smith was the hottest cartoon I've ever seen in my life. Done.
• Turkey, nuts, and cranberry sauce were a large part of their diets; all of that Omega-B, protein, and antioxidents suggest that they probably had great skin and nails.
• They wore loafer pumps on a daily basis, which, if you've opened an InStyle magazine in the past six months, know that they're a huge trend for fall.
• They all spoke in British accents. Hello, Jude Law, Hugh Grant, and Kate Winslet?! Nothing is sexier than that.
• They made peace with the Indians. And that is the sexiest part of it al.

So next time you choose to be on Team Sacajawea instead of Team Prudence Smith, think again; the pilgrims are way sexier than you can imagine!

Jersey Boys ROCKED the District!

Even if you're not that much a musical theater person (which, for the record, I am), I was lucky enough to have been invited to see Jersey Boys tonight at the National Theater; aesthetically pleasing to both of the eyes and (duhh) the ears. The National Theater set as a perfect landscape to over 50 virtual images as sets, live images of The Four Seasons, and amazing costumes tat will have you wanting to be retro-fabulous in no time. Though I lost the playbill, this show has a retro-Italian, New Jersey feel that will make you feel like you're at the Cafe Dolce Vita in Providence (I was inspired to decorate my new apartment with all of the art decor stuff), and you'll have tons of "oh-my-God-I-know-that-song!" moments. While you may have just heard about The Four Seasons, this show is a standout when it comes to Broadway musicals, and I'm sure will continue to receive lots and lots of Tony awards. Learn that Lauryn Hill wasn't the originator of "Can't Take My Eyes Off of You", the song from the Nair commercial is actually a remake, and that The Four Seasons totally revolutionized American rock-n-roll music.

Eyelash Extensions in Arlington at BellaLuxe

I am the eyelash QUEEN. I wear falsies on a daily basis, and have leveraged several different methodologies in my time to bat the most beautiful lashes possible. And, to my surprise, in the city that is NAAAATTT known for it's beauty procedures or salons, actually has an entire salon dedicated to one of the only parts of the body that should be adorned with hair. Yes, right over the bridge in Arlington, you'll find Bellaluxe, a gorgeous, pink-on-white salon devoted entirely to highend eyelash extensions made strictly from human hair. Operated by Mitzi Hale, a cosmetology professional and known stylist in the area with over three years of experience, this is not your typical eyelash extension that usually ends in some sort of unattractive stye or infection. For $275 and 3 hours time, Mitzi and her stylists will individually place up to 125 eyelash strands into your already there lash line; definitely not a quick procedure, but the results are Kardashian-esque! Lasting for a month, the client is then able to return on a monthly basis for $85 to receive fill-in's. Now, I'm going to be honest; on my budget, I'm definitely not in a place to be spending $100 a month on eyelashes, but if I was making a six figure salary, would definitely be there in a second. Check out Bella Luxe at www.bellaluxe.com, and if nothing else, get excited that cosmetology-forward enhancements are actually making their way to the District of Columbia!

Last night, I flew from by beloved Rhode Island into DC around 8 pm at night. Rather than taking plebey Southwest airlines in BWI, I found a great deal on Delta, and for the first time in a long time, flew into DCA, sat on the left side of the plane, and amidst all of the cars and traffic lights and clouds; WOW! Now I'm not a person wh typically gets nostalgic. I'm a realist, I don't save momentos, I don't rememeber special days (though I'm starting to try to), but I couldn't help becoming that way when I looked out of the plane and saw the White House, Capital Building, Washington Memorial, and Jefferson Memorial all lit up, looking like fake little Playmobiles that were miles away. Even more importantly, it made me think, that while I love the parties and the galas and the awesome restaurants and adorable Georgetown boutiques, DO YOU REALIZE WHERE WE LIVE, FELLOW WASHINGTONIANS?! Believe it or not, agree with it or not, but in Washington, DC, we're living in the center of the world. With the US as a power player and considered the land of the free to some and the land of controversy to others, the US is a country that's on everyone's radar, good, bad or otherwise. And, living in DC, we are in the center of where some of the biggest power plays for the wolrd are going down; Obama is our neighbor, Sasha and Malia love Baked & Wired just as much as the rest of us, and you know that Michelle can't resist a good meal at Blue Duck Tavern. Whether you're down with politics or not, we are eating, playing and breathing the air of some of the most powerful people in the entire world, and not for nothing, but isn't that a crazy, beautiful, insane thing?

Dupont Drag Queen Race

It doesn't matter if you're gay, straight, lesbian, bi, transgenderd, or totally asexual altoether, the DC Drag Queen Race in Dupont Circle is a fun, decade long tradition that will bring crowds to the Circle for an evening of stillettos, athleticism, cocktails, and fun! Every year, on the Tuesday before Halloween, drag queens will wear elaborate costumes and participate in a race down 17th street, with block party-esque events going down in the area that will allow for some spectators to have some fun in the process. While the race begins at nine, get there at six to make sure that you have a good spot, and go in costume if you're looking to get a little bit more into the spirit (I haven't prepared properly, so I'll be in normal clothes...boringggg). Furthermore, tons of bars and restaurants in the area are doing drink specials in the area in observance of the spectacle, so bring your high heels and a road soda, and enjoy the most colorful block party that he District will ever see (Louboutains not required).

DC Haunts

So we all know that there's not too many fabulous things going on in DC on a Monday night (and if there are, please send them over my way), so having the huge facination with the paranormal that I've had my entire life, thought Halloween served as the perfect season to share some of my favorite stories of things that go bump in DC! So go into a room alone, turn off all of the lights, and play some creepy music on YouTube, and read if you dare...

Look at Abe in back of the
hott Victorian woman!

• The Stephen Decatur House- Stephen Decatur, the house's owner, died tragically in a duel in the mid nineteenth century. Since the tragic event took place, there have been cloudy, white figures seen throughout the historic manor. Many ghostly apparitions have been sighted by staff. There is a heavy feeling of sadness in the room on the first floor where Stephen Decatur died, and it has been sensed by those tourists who aren't even familiar with the haunting.
• The White House: The Lincoln bedroom is reportedly haunted by honest Abe himself; he's even had phantom images appear in White House photographs! The White House is supposedly haunted by Colonial Dolly Madison, wife of President Madison, who was caught in a fire trying to save presidential portraits. Her screams can be heard throughout the halls of the White House.
• The Supreme Court Building: The area that is now the Supreme Court has a sordid history long before the nation's highest court took residence there. That corner was the home of a large brick building that was well known to be haunted. The Building was known as the Old Capitol Building, because it temporarily housed the employees of the Capitol while the current building was being repaired from a fire. When the workers moved out of the old building it was used as a prison for Confederate soldiers. These soldiers would scream, swear, bang and plead their innocence while awaiting trial. The most famous of these prisoners was the well known female confederate spy Belle Boyd. The building was taken over by pioneers of the Woman's Suffrage Movement, and meetings were held here while women were fighting for the right to vote. Many of these women heard screams, swearing and banging while they were holding their meetings, some were terrified. The building was demolished in the 1920s to make way for the Supreme Court. Although the Old Capitol Building is gone, many a Washingtonian will tell you on some early mornings before the sun rises and the feds arrive to work... the sceams, rattles and pleads for justice can be heard. (www.dchauntings.com)
• The Demon Cat at the Capitol Building: This mysterious beast is known for being the most popular, unusual and dangerous "creature" in the city. Scenario: a police officer is walking his rounds in the basement of the Capitol, he sees a small black cat. The policeman is puzzled. As the cat approaches him it grows, and has glowing eyes. The man is frozen in fear, and as the growing cat approaches him it lunges at him, and the victim passes out in fright. The next day a president gets assassinated. This is a SCENARIO of what happens with the demon cat. No event happened EXACTLY this way, but there are some common traits of this beast: It chooses its victims wisely, often late workers and night watchmen, but not always...

So while they might serve as beautiful monuments, DC's past wasn't always so "politically correct", if you will. Want a quick haunt? Visit the Frieght Night at the Museum, probably one of

OMG We Have a New Memorial!

Amidst a crown of over twenty thousand Americans, Martin Luther King, Jr. was honored this past Sunday during the official Memorial Dedication Ceremony, in which is his newly-erected thirty foot statue was honored by many. Known as the "Stone of Hope", imagery was taken from the "I Have a Dream Speech" (and if you don't know what that is, you clearly didn't graduate the third grade), with his daughter, Dr. Bernice King, being present in the moment to accept the dedication in lieu of her father's presence. With peace activists, Washingtonians, scholars, and tons of Alpha Phi Alpha's (because, did you know, MLK was a frat bother?! And, did you also know, that the frat proceded to take over Chinatown following the dedication of the event? Yes, they caused quite a ruckus at Proof proceding the event...), the event was a diverse crowd- which is, obvi, exactly what Dr. King would have wanted. Obama delivered a beautiful speech (which I hope will put him in a more favorable place so that he gets reelected in 2012), and a plethora of celebrities made appearences, ranging from Vivica A. Fox to Talib Kweli. And, of course, the event was illustrated with a little bit of comical relief; in typical fashion, Cornel West was taken in handcuffs from the event, as he negatively reacted to a police officer trying to maintain the crowd near the 90%-er protest going on during the event (SOOO DC of him). Totes not what MLK would have wanted, Cornel, but still a wonderful event. 

Paint Seattle & Vancouver Leopard

Okay, okay. I know what you're all thinking; how could there possibly be anything leopard-worthy in the city that's known for Deadliest Catch, Starbucks Coffee, and the entire 1990s grunge scene? And, for realz, Canada?! After visiting Seattle several times on business over the past year, I decided to return, only this time, treating my mom to a vaca using my Delta points (hello, Gold status?!), and managing to eat and drink my entire way through the Pacific Northwest. Sure, it's got some crunch to it (like, everything in every single restaurant is organic/preservative-free/green/who-gives-a-shit-you-freaking-hippie), which is the epitome of everything NOT Rhode Island (where my mother, and the silver shoes she wore the entire trip, still reside to this day), but both Seattle and Vancouver are truly gems of cities. And, no, you won't find any palm trees (this ain't FLAAARIDAAA, Rhode Island), but the picturesque views will have you breathless and the hospitality itself is a constant reminder that you're far, far away from the Northeast. And, believe it or not, I even saw just a little, teeny bit of animal print (it was inside a woman's parka, no less, but it still counts for something). Here are the definite Seattle and Vancouver 'go-to's that you MUST take part in when you finally make it out to the Pacific Northwest:

• Go to the original Starbucks in Pike Place market:They don't sell bagels like of the rest of the franchises, which had me disappointed, but it's so funny to see a piece of history where so many of our caffeine addictions originated.
• Have dinner at the Purple Cafe: This delicious spot features a tasting menu and wine flights, allowing you to try so many different things on the menu and without draining your checking account (or just bring your mother, like I did, and that won't even be an issue). Make sure to order the risotto; it's one of the best I've had!
• Visit the Space Needle: A historic landmark, and one the highest point in the entire United States, the Space Needle has a restaurant at the top and tons of overlooks. 
• Stay at The Edgewater!: I couldn't put a more important recommendation on this blog. I'm not into flannel, hardwood, or fireplaces, but this place is to DIE FOR! With floor to ceiling windows overlooking the entire Pacific, gorgeous rooms, and antler-horned chandeliers, this place combines Pacific Northwest charm with a touch of chic, all within the walls of a five-star hotel. 
• Venture on Chuckanut Drive: Take the long route when driving to Vancouver and explore the redwoods and pines overlooking the Pacific. There's tons of gift shops along the way and delicious restaurants (The Oyster Bar was unbelievable, and fed me the best oysters I've ever had in my life), and truly gives you the Pacific Northwest experience. 
• Shop Robson Street in Vancouver: I'm telling you, this city is that of the future. Robertson Boulevard who? Robson has everything and then some, from Louis to Hermes to Betsy to thrifty boutiques. This is truly a shopping mecca!
• Eat at The Raincity Grille: This Vancouver spot has some of the most seamless service I've ever encountered in a single restaurant. The food is spectacular, too. Not so hungry? Give their "spoons" a try; At $5 a spoon, you can have a taste of one of their entrees without gorging yourself in the process. 
• Take the gondola to Grouse Mountain: O-EM-GEE. This place is unbelievable. Just twenty minutes outside of Vancouver, take a gondola up one of the most beautiful mountains and prepare to be impressed. There, see totem poles, grizzly bears, and even a lumber jack show (which I participated in, duhh)! You'll definitely get into the Canadian spirit. 

The beautiful ride up Grouse Mountain in Vancouver, British Columbia.

The Pacific Northwest is truly a gem. Sure, my mother and I stuck out like sore thumbs the entire time, but we indulged in some delicious food, met some of the friendliest people, and stayed at one of the best hotels I've ever visited (Seriously, a trip to Seattle is necessary to see The Edgewater alone!). 

Top Fashion Trends for Fall in DC!

Okay, okay. So I'm not totally down with being "in" with each particular season. Let's be honest; You'll never see me in a Fedora, I'm not wearing a cape (even if Olivia Palermo swears by one...and who is she really, anyway?), and I'd rather DIE than ever be seen in a ballet flat unless they're Tory Burch, or I'm in a ballet class. However, having been on the prowl in purchasing clothes for my upcoming job with a DC recruiting firm, I've definitely seen some fall trends that will be sure to come into fruition as the season opens up even further. According to the boutiques of both M Street and K Street, below is your guide to fall fashion; However, take it with a grain of salt, and never wear a trend that isn't flattering to your body type (I made that mistake with goucho pants four years ago...Definitely NOTTT the type of pant to wear if you've got a badunkadunk!):

• Hunter Green Denim: Pair them with a brown suede jacket and a white, blousey top. Add some hoop earrings so that you don't look like a total hipster and go take on the town!
• Loafer Heels: My mother has sworn on loafers for twenty-four years, and I have mocked her for them throughout my entire existence. However, this new, heeled loafer, gives the traditional a sexy and edgy twist. Go for a style in a camel, Earth-tone, or wine-colored hue (you'll look like you're in Catholic school if you buy a black pair). 
• Capes and Ponchos: While I almost REFUSED to put this hideous trend on my blog, I gotta be honest; If you're one of those sticklers for wearing the "in" item, buy a cape and you've hit the nail on the head. In the spirit of reporting honestly, cape styles have adorned the windows of Intermix and Wink, and will definitely be a stand-out look for the season...Sorry, but I am NOT Little Red Riding Hood and will not be participating. 
• Blousey Tops: Had too many wings this past weekend while watching the Redskins game? This is the PERFECT trend for football season, and will totally help to hide that foopa you're ashamed to have grown over the past couple of weeks. Think 70s peasant tops with a modern twist and more sophisticated fabrics; It's a great look that's flattering on everyone!
• Tuxedo-Style Pairings: Blacks-and-whites paired together are making a huge comeback for the fall! Think white tops, black blazers, and black pencil pants, or black and white stripes. Add a ruffley top or something with edge so that you avoid looking like a Blair Waldorf copy-cat and you're good to go. 
• Metallic Leather Jackets: I just got a cropped one in silver. But whether real or faux, the metallic leather jacket in either gold, silver, or copper, is a great look that can add just a little bit of extra Rihanna to your blah outfit. Plus, this trend item is something that you can keep in your wardrobe for the long term.

Anyone have anything else that they've seen as a trend for fall? Comment and keep me posted, and remember to never leave the house without your hoop earrings and name plate jewelry, no matter the trend. 

Gaga Meets with Obama to Stop Bullying for Good!

As I'm sure many of you have read in the papers, another life was recently lost in a traumatic suicide, ironically enough by Jamey Rodemeyer, a 14-year-old boy who participated in the "It Gets Better" YouTube.com campaign. While friends and family didn't think that his bullying affected him deeply and was simply "brushed off", the vivacious teen unfortunately took matters into his own hands. After hearing about all of this, Lady Gaga, probably one of the biggest LGBT advocates in the industry, decided that she was ready for some dramatic change, and in black attire, purchased a $38,000 ticket and attended a dinner hosted by President Obama in the District last evening. With a panel available for discussion to audience members, Gaga read to Obama a pre-rehearsed letter, documenting the amount of suicides having taken place over the past year, and pressing him to make bullying an issue regarded by the administration. Apparently (and this is only heresay), Obama appreciated Gaga's testament to the cause, and said that the White House was continuing to develop extensive anti-bullying campaigns to be showcased in schools throughout the country. Whether he decides to go through with it, Gaga put on her fighting gloves and gave it her best shot yesterday, which is a testament to her dedication in and of itself.
Now, say what you want about Gaga; her outfits are ridiculous, she does try to hard sometimes, and the shock art stuff that she tries to pull off sometimes does border on an underlying insecurity that we all secretly know exists inside of her. However, it's extremely impressive that Lady Gaga has taken such a stance on a political issue, knowing that she's so influential. Some celebrities take on particular platforms, donate lump sums of money to a particular cause, or take on one-off volunteer projects; all which are great and extremely valued. But the fact that Gaga showed up, in person, and continues to verbally fight for a cause that is so intertwined with the lives of many of her fans is extremely touching. Hopefully, Gaga is also setting the tone for what the non-celebritiy world should be doing and the issues that we should be focussing in on. While Jamey's suicide, and all of the teens suicides, are terrible tragedies and should have been avoided, I see these young men and women as being martyrs and helping us take notice to paving the way for a new movement of respect, tolerance, and kindness.

Dirty Vegas Music Video Casting Call THIS SUNDAY!

Are you fabulous? Love the good life? Got that (I'm hesitant to say it, but that's what the client wants) "hipster", fashion-forward look that makes you appear to have stepped off the streets of Paris or London? If the answer is yes, please attend the casting call this Sunday, from 1-4 at the base of the Georgetown Waterfront, for Dirty Vegas (the British house music group, for those of you who are musically challenged) latest music video which will be shot in the heart of the Capital. Enjoy champagne, refreshments, and meet some of the top producers from DC's very own 8112 Studios, who have shot everyone from Lady Gaga to Justin Bieber to our very own Mya! To pre-apply for the casting, visit www.emma.com, create a profile, and select the Dirty Vegas video shoot submission option so that your information is available and on file. With Paint the Town Leopard and 8112 Studios all underway at the event, its sure to be a good time and an opportunity to network with tons of people in the entertainment industry, while meeting some of DC's finest at the same time. Dress the part, bring the attitude, and come audition for Dirty Vegas' latest music video!