CRAVE CRUSH the urban girl's blog to all that you CRAVE

Your Guide to the City’s Stylists and Personal Shoppers

July 28, 2010 by Laura Scholz | Comments (0)

Every girl loves to shop and style herself, but we could all use a little help here and there.  When you feel your fashions turning from fab to drab, we’ve got the cure you’ve been CRAVE-ing!  With everything from accessory styling to full on make-overs, our list of styling intelligentsias will have just the solution to brighten up you dull closet!

Ooh That’s Cute!
770-256-1932
@oohthatscute
Ooh That’s Cute! is a lifestyle company centered on helping you pull together the elements of your life with style.  Owned by the effervescent and totally adorable Bobbi Oxendine (who’s personal style will make you exclaim “ooo, that’s cute,” hence the name!), the company is your professional shopper, decorator and best friend.  They’ll work with you to develop your individual style and implement it across all aspects of your life: wardrobe, home and events.

Style Me Now!
1130 Piedmont Avenue Northeast
678-851-4399
Style Me Now! is your Atlanta go-to image consultancy.  French native Cecile Blanco’s down-to-earth approach helps women and men identify and solve their style and wardrobe challenges while reaching their image goals.  Style Me Now! works with clients to create a style that suits their body and enhances their life.

mb Style
404-273-8813
Created by retail veteran, Monette Brown, mb Style can help you upgrade your fashion sense and create style that is suitable for you and for all occasions.  As your Fashion Stylist, mb Style offers multiple services including: closet audits; personal shopping; fashion coordinating; and more.  Why does it work?  She is only concerned with one thing — the clothing you wear and how it is working for you!

Birthday Musings

July 28, 2010 by Lynn Edwards | Comments (0)

Happy Birthdays!

Summer brings fun in the sun, tan lines and a ton of birthdays. I’m pretty sure it’s due to the cold fall weather nine months earlier. It gets chilly, folks curl up and the next summer you’re hiring clowns and ordering birthday cakes.

I just celebrated a “mid-forty” (yeah let’s go with that) milestone and it got me thinking about birthdays. I’ve decided to embrace my age. I’m one year closer to owning my stuff and embracing the wisdom that comes with knowing who you are and who you’re not -like coming to terms with the fact that the last time I was a size 6 was when I was 6 and I’ll never see that number on a clothes tag again. I was inspired when I read this passage recently, ”take kindly the counsel of your years” then realized it was from an online dating site guy who was looking to date women 22-26 years old.

You know that cool Martina McBride song that says, “every laugh line on your face made you who you are today” Well, I have no idea what was so frickin’ funny over the years but I must have had a great time somewhere along the way cause I have the roadmap on my face to prove it!

When you celebrate your 10th birthday you love that Mexican place where you get to wear that huge sombrero, there is all that clapping just for you, and then they light the ice cream on fire. When you turn 36 at that same Mexican place you just want the singing to cease so strangers will stop staring.

My oldest son turned 18 recently. A huge milestone, right? I mean come on, the kid had made it to adulthood, that in itself warranted a fireworks display in both our honors. He was about as excited for his special day as he was his 1st birthday…giving me a blank stare as if to say ”what’s all the hype about woman”? He wore a crazy hat in his 1st birthday picture, now he’s sporting a cap & gown…he still dresses funny in birthday pictures. I was looking forward to MY present. After all, the kid was still breathing even after I had lost him, poisoned him, and made him wear shoes that were 2 sizes too small for a year. What do I win to celebrate that “we” made it 18 yrs?!

When I was 40 I threw myself a big bash with live band and all….I couldn’t believe I had made it that far…and on the way home from the party I bought a huge jar of anti-wrinkle cream.

Let’s hear it for office birthday parties- there’s all that healthy stuff in the break room but on birthday day you bee-line to the conference room and you’re like “happy special day, Dave whatever your last name is from accounting”, thanks for being born, now let’s eat some chocolate cake.

Birthdays are milestones in your life. They are cause for reflection and anticipation. I personally will pour myself a stiff drink, cheers myself and kindly celebrate “the counsel of my years”!

The Girl’s Guide to Beer

July 26, 2010 by Nicole S. | Comments (0)

On a sweltering summer day at the ballpark or a friend’s BBQ, nothing is more refreshing than an ice-cold brew. This summer ditch that prissy pink cocktail and back away from the Budweiser. With a little beer savvy you can discover some great brews that will satisfy your taste buds and impress even the guys.

There are 4 main ingredients in beer: grain, yeast, water and hops, but the creativity when it comes to brewing is endless. There are beers with fruit, smoked beers, beer made with chocolate and even beer brewed with bacon. Navigating your way through the numerous types and styles of beer can be daunting, but here are some helpful hints about the most popular styles that can help you choose a winner for your next potluck or outdoor summer event. Who said beer had to be just for the boys? Go ahead, embrace that summer night CRAVING.

India Pale Ale (IPA): This beer has a light pale to golden color. Its crisp bitter flavor is attributed to the high hops and alcohol content which helped preserve the beer during the long journey across the ocean when British brewers began to export to India.
Try: Lagunitas IPA, Lagunitas Brewing Co, Petaluma, CA, 5.7% Alcohol by Volume (ABV)
Drink with: Spicy foods like a Thai Yellow Vegetable Curry

Hefeweizen: Perfect for summer, this German style wheat beer is distinguished by fruity notes, cloudy appearance and high carbonation. This beer is usually served with a slice of lemon and its bright flavor is often accented by citrus, banana, clove or nutmeg flavors.
Try: Widmer Hefeweizen, Widmer Brothers Brewing, Portland, OR, 4.7% ABV
Drink with: Classic German food such as chicken sausage topped with brown mustard or a salad tossed with candied pecans and feta.

Stout: Familiar to many because of the popularity of Guinness, Stouts have a heavy body and are very dark in color. This beer has a high alcohol content and is often characterized by caramel, coffee, chocolate or even oatmeal flavors.
Try: Chocolate Stout, Rouge Brewery, Portland OR, 6.3% ABV
Eat with: This beer could be a meal in itself, but pairs nicely with desserts like tiramisu.

Pilsner: This all American beer represents nearly 90% of the major beer brands sold in the U.S. Pilsner is golden in color and tends to have a light, clean, drinkable flavor sometimes compared to toast or fresh bread.
Try: Prima Pils, Victory Brewing Company, Downington, PA, 5.3% ABV
Eat with: All American foods like hearty chili or a grilled burger and fries

Brews to CRAVE this summer
Sierra Nevada Summerfest
New Belgium Skinny Dip
Anderson Valley Brewing Co., Summer Solstice Cerveza Crema

This is by no means a complete list of all the styles out there so experiment, go to a brew festival this summer, and discover which styles and breweries make you CRAVE more. For a fun new adventure, why not grab your beer drinking gal pals and do a brewery tour? Try this for a fun weekend or birthday activity. For more information on beer and the female movers and shakers in the beer industry, check out the Pink Boots Society at pinkbootssociety.org.

*written by Alyssa Goldberg for the CRAVE company. Alyssa is a lover of all things to do with food and travel- check out her blog, WorldSavour by clicking here.

Sensational Salad Spots We CRAVE

July 21, 2010 by Laura Scholz | Comments (0)

When it’s this hot out, we CRAVE fresh, crispy produce, and there’s no better way to enjoy the summer’s bounty than in a light, healthy salad!  Here are some great Atlanta spots to satisfy your veggie CRAVE-ings.

MetroFresh
931 Monroe Dr. Suite A106
404-724-0151
MetroFresh serves up exactly what it’s name implies–incredibly fresh food in the heart of bustling Midtown.  In addition to delicious soups and CRAVE-able sandwiches, MetroFresh serves up creative salads like Field Greens with Roasted Veggies and Parmesan Cheese, Arugula with Red Pears, Walnuts, and Crumbled Blue Cheese, their signature Veggie Trail mix, and traditional Caprese Salad.

Bocado
887 Howell Mill Road
404-815-1399
At Bocado, sustainable foods rule.  This popular west-side restaurant utilizes organic, natural elements in both design and food.  Dine al fresco on the spacious patio or head indoors to the cozy communal table to enjoy a variety of salads, including our favorite, young lettuce with cranberries, goat cheese and delectable buttermilk dressing.

Noon Midtown
1080 Peachtree Street, Suite 6
404-496-4891
The salads at Noon, prepared by CRAVE’s own entrepreness, owner and chef Katie Birmingham are not be missed.  And since this super popular lunch spot has recently started serving dinner, you can enjoy their fresh ingredients and delicious salads all day long!

Dynamic Dish
427 edgewood avenue
404-688-4344
At Dynamic Dish it is their mission is to provide fresh, nutritious meals for the modern/urban lifestyle.  They offer food made of natural and organic ingredients, obtained from local and multi-cultural, natural resources to create tasty, imaginative meals.  Upon entering this hidden gem, you will find a relaxed environment, where the freshest local (with a little global!) food is prepared with great care.  Arrive early for the best selection!

Souper Jenny
56 E. Andrews Dr. NW
404-237-7687
Don’t let the name fool you, delicious soups are not the only great thing this popular lunch spot offers. Souper Jenny is a cozy neighborhood cafe open six days a week. The menu changes every day to keep everything fresh, exciting and delicious. With creative salads like Fresh Fruit Salad with Greek Yogurt & Honey, Vegetarian Noodle Salad, Big Green Salad with Grilled Chicken and Mediterranean Melon Salad, there is something for everyone!  Souper Jenny is closed for the month of July, but be the first in line when it reopens on August 2!

Bloggers To Watch Out For: Career Coaches

July 19, 2010 by Lilla | Comments (1)

Over the past few months, the number of people quitting their jobs was greater than the number of people losing their jobs. Savvy quitters build a support network before they take the plunge, and brilliant quitters enlist professional help. Enter: the Certified Career Coach. One part therapist. One part cheerleader. Two parts butt-kicking taskmaster.

Need a solid coach in your corner of the ring? Michelle Ward, Dyana Valentine and Chrissy Scivicque are at the top of their game.

Michelle Ward of When I Grow Up
whenigrowupcoach.com
I’ll admit it — I’m a tad biased in Michelle’s favor. She coached me out of my cubicle doldrums and into freelance bliss, so I owe her my firstborn child. A graduate of NYU / Tisch’s musical theater program and a certified life coach, Michelle brings theatrical flair and a “wagon full of enthusiasm” to every session. She recently raised her rates and is poised to explode, so book a free 30-minute consultation call while you still can.

For a weekly dose of self-exploration, bookmark Michelle’s ongoing blog feature: Tough Question Tuesday.

Dyana Valentine
dyanavalentine.com
Generous. Ambitious. A master of personal marketing. Dyana leads by example, and her clients feel the heat. By her own admission, Ms. Valentine’s coaching style is “not for the weak of heart.” She prides herself on helping self-starters finish what they started, using Community Psychology principles to light the way. As one client put it, “if I had to be shipwrecked on a desert island, I’d want Dyana with me.”

For a no-holds-barred explanation of the power of “no,” check out Dyana’s article on “No-gotiation.”

Chrissy Scivicque of Eat Your Career
eatyourcareer.com
Chrissy serves up a powerhouse combo platter — she’s a certified nutritionist AND an experienced career coach. Yum. As the creator of Office Arrow — a popular resource for administrative professionals — Chrissy has a firsthand grasp on the challenges of running an online business. She’s a clear communicator with a nourishing perspective on life, love and work — and all the snacks in between.

For a trio of tasty coaching treats, download Chrissy Scivicque’s free workbooks on stress management, time management and career reinvention.

ALEXANDRA FRANZEN is a writer + editor + organization freak. She designs rockstar resumes, leads personal branding jam sessions, writes marketing copy and teaches wallflowers how to hustle like a gangsta’. You can find her blogging up a storm at Unicorns for Socialism and tweeting away @alex_franzen.

Introducing…Jessica Thomas

July 15, 2010 by Laura Scholz | Comments (0)

Jessica Thomas PR is a different kind of Atlanta-based communications firm representing lifestyle clients throughout the Southeast. Principal, Jessica Thomas, specializes in media relations, event planning, marketing, grassroots community involvement, product placement branding and social media. JTPR provides clients with an innovative and strategic vision that is supported by our experience in the industry, extensive knowledge and a passion to deliver results.

How would you describe your business in exactly three adjectives?
Creative. Unique. Dedicated.

What are your most popular products or services?
Public relations, media placement, event planning, marketing, grassroots community involvement, product placement branding and social media optimization.

What or who inspired you to start your business?
I always saw myself owning my own company. I spent my early career working for others, but realized that I needed to go out on my own to be truly happy.

Who is your role model or mentor?
My dad. His support and advice have been invaluable.

What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat?
Not signing contracts with clients when I first started.

How do you spend your free time?
Shopping, writing, going to events, spending time with friends, reading celebrity gossip and going to the gym.

What is your indulgence?
Buying clothes & shoes!

Where is your favorite place to go with your girlfriends?
The beach or dinner and drinks at our favorite spots in Atlanta.

Classy and Fabulous: Meet piastyle

July 12, 2010 by Nicole S. | Comments (0)

Besides being a high level personal stylist, Pia Jacobsen can now add author to her list of accomplishments. Pia’s style is classic and chic, and she helps her clients create a coordinated wardrobe that reflects their personal tastes with a refined touch. Her new book “pia…me” is Pia’s answer to some of the “questionable choices” made by women she has seen, and is aimed at helping women to develop their own personal style. At CRAVE we respect any woman who isn’t afraid to call it like shes sees it. Read our interview with Pia for an inside fashion scoop. Click here to find Pia’s book!

What are your wardrobe staples?
I’m pretty classic, personally. I have a uniform that is primarily black in the winter, white in the summer. It’s calming to me.

What do you think is the worst fashion trend right now?
I don’t know if it is so much a trend as a mistake. Bra straps, particularly the industrial strength ones are not meant to be seen. Check the rear view, choose the right kind of bra, or have lingerie straps sewn into your clothes. This trend is like a recurring nightmare.

Trends are best when they become ….
Not trendy. When a trend lasts more than a season or two, and becomes part of the fashion vernacular, it means it works, or at least appeals to a lot of women. I don’t believe in investing a lot of money in a trendy item. However, when it has proven itself after a season or two, and it works for you, buy the best quality you can afford.

What is an easy piece of style advice you wish more women would follow?
After you are completely dressed and accessorized, look in the mirror and take one thing off. A little goes a long way.

What was the hardest part about writing your book?
Letting it go.

What do you want your readers to get out of reading “pia….me”?
I want my readers to understand that while it is important to care about how you look, and to put your best foot forward, it is just a means to becoming all you can be. It is infinitely more important to learn to like yourself, to live with confidence, to establish boundaries, to live your dreams and to become self sufficient. As I say in my lectures, “walk the goddess walk”.

As a fashion stylist, how do you separate your personal taste when you are dressing a client?
That is relatively easy, actually. I know my personal taste, and am very confident about it, so I am not swayed easily by trends or other influences. But because I love fashion, I can appreciate a wide variety of looks even though they may not work for me personally. I pay close attention to what my client loves in her existing wardrobe, and what her needs are in terms of travel, events, and lifestyle. Fashion, like art, should conjure up an emotional response. Her clothing should make her feel fabulous, and serve to enhance her experiences. That’s my job.

If you weren’t working in the fashion world you would be_______?
A floral designer. Hopefully, a very avant-garde floral designer living in Paris, or possibly a landscape designer on Capri.

What do you CRAVE?
Nothing material at this point in my life. I CRAVE love, friendship, honesty, Fran’s sea salt caramels, and my body at age 19.

Keep tabs on Pia’s latest fashion updates online:
Website
Blog
Twitter
Facebook

*This publication was sent to the CRAVE company for review.

World Cup Celebration: Indulge in Global Treats

July 8, 2010 by Nicole S. | Comments (0)

For weeks we have been huddled around the television, sometimes at ungodly hours of the morning, to watch beautiful men from around the world kick around a soccer ball and compete for the coveted World Cup. Whether you have followed the sport for years or just recently discovered what terms like “off-sides” or “stoppage time” mean, it is truly amazing how soccer can bring entire nations together for a common goal.

America’s run has ended, but there are some amazing teams that have risen to the top of the competition! Gather your friends together and indulge in these fun recipes perfect for a summer barbecue or potluck that are inspired by the stand out teams of the 2010 World Cup!

Chimichurri Steak- Uruguay/ Argentina

Chimichurri is a sauce from South America and is served in countries like Uruguay and Argentina over steak and chicken.

Ingredients:

1 cup packed fresh flat leaf parsley
ÂĽ cup packed fresh cilantro
½ cup olive oil
1/3 cup red wine vinegar
2 garlic cloves peeled
Âľ teaspoon dried crushed red pepper
a pinch of salt and pepper
a squeeze of lemon juice

Preparation:

1. Mix all ingredients in a food processor and serve over steak, chicken or fish.

Party Sangria- Spain

Ingredients:

1 bottle of red wine
1 lemon cut into wedges
1 orange cut into wedges
1 lime cut into wedges
1 apple diced
1 cup raspberries or strawberries
1 small can of diced pineapples with juice
2 tbsp of sugar
4 cups ginger ale or lemon lime soda
2 shots gin or triple sec

Preparation:

1. Pour wine into a large pitcher and squeeze the juice from the lemon, oranges and lime into the wine.
2. Toss in the fruit wedges and add pineapple, apples sugar and gin.
3. Chill overnight.
4. Add ginger ale or soda, berries and ice just before serving.

Potato Salad- Germany

Ingredients:

2 pounds red potatoes
ÂĽ lb bacon cut into small pieces
½ medium onion chopped
1/3 cup cider vinegar
ÂĽ cup water
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 tsp mustard
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Preparation:

1. Place potatoes in saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat and reduce to simmer, uncovered for 20-30 minutes or until potatoes are fork tender. Drain. Let potatoes cool. Peel potatoes and cut into ÂĽ inch pieces.
2. Cook bacon in skillet over medium heat until crisp and set aside.
3. Cook onion in bacon drippings until tender.
4. Combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt and mustard in a large bowl. Toss in potatoes and bacon and mix until well coated.
5. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Oliebollen (Apple Fritters)- Netherlands

Ingredients

2 tbsp sugar
2 pkg yeast
4 cups sugar
5 eggs
2 cups scalded milk
½ cup butter softened
10 cups flour
1 ½ tsp salt
3 diced Granny Smith apples
1 cup raisins pinch of cinnamon
canola oil for frying

Preparation:

1. Dissolve 2 tbsp sugar in 1 cup warm water. Sprinkle yeast on top. Let stand while preparing dough.
2. In a large mixing bowl beat eggs, add scalded milk, 1 ½ cups warm water, yeast mixture and butter and beat well. Add flower, 1 cup sugar and salt. Mix well. Add diced apple.
3. Let dough rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size.
4. In a separate bowl mix 3 cups sugar, and cinnamon to taste.
5. Fill a fryer pot with 3-4 inches of canola oil. Heat to 375 degrees and scoop spoonfuls of down into the oil. Turn to ensure even browning.
6. Drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mixture and serve warm.

*written by Alyssa Goldberg for the CRAVE company. Alyssa is a lover of all things to do with food and travel- check out her blog, WorldSavour by clicking here.

Keeping Your Bikini Body – Workout Hot Spots we CRAVE

July 7, 2010 by Laura Scholz | Comments (0)

Do you CRAVE fun, sun, and the great outdoors, but the bikini season is giving you the blues? Fear not—we’ve put together a list of Atlanta’s most fabulous hot spots guaranteed to bring out your inner goddess!

Body Awareness Studio
5549 Roswell Rd. NE
404-252-7550
@BAwareness
Body Awareness Studio is Atlanta’s first Pilates studio. Their talented instructors love to share resources for Health, Wellness and Longevity. Overall benefits include breathing easier, a strong physical body, and an increased piece of mind. Some of the special tools used at Body Awareness are: Pilates, GYROTONIC, Meridian Stretching, Polarity Therapy, Qigong, Breath Empowerment, and Meditation. Body Awareness can help you find your inner beauty that will shine through as you pull out that teeny bikini at the beach this summer!

Condition Kettleball Gym
659 Auburn Ave #157
404-380-1111
@gymcondition
Condition Kettlebell Gym is the Southeast’s premier kettlebell studio.  Invented by the Russian Special Forces in the 1600′s kettlebell training blends strength, cardio, and flexibility into one efficient workout. Because kettlebells train your body as a unit, they don’t create bulk but give long lean muscles, perfect for any bathing beauty’s day at the pool!

Intown Pilates
550 Amsterdam Ave, NE Suite L5
404-575-2333
Intown Pilates Atlanta, an award-winning, full service Pilates studio nestled in between the Virginia Highland and Midtown neighborhoods, offers classically based Pilates classes, such as Mat and Tower, as well as those evolved to embrace today’s sophisticated exercise enthusiast, including the original Pilates/Sculpt and TowerStretch. Come and experience the Creative Balance of the Method and more all while empowering your body and mind–all while getting yourself bikini ready!

West Coast Workout
175 Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE
404-843-3800
@wcworkout
West Coast Workout was created for the pursuit of health. Tammy’s signature workouts were designed to create slim, sexy, sculpted physiques that any woman would feel fabulous showing off! The Live Your Healthiest Life program teaches clients how to dramatically improve their lives through powerful nutrition, mindset and fitness. You can get a custom workout and a healthy lunch to go. You’ll leave feeling sand-carpet worthy and fabulous!

Blast 900
Buckhead & Dunwoody
@BLAST900
If you are CRAVE-ing an intense workout, then look no further than Blast 900. Their mission is to provide a 60-minute Ultimate Full Body Workout encompassing all areas of fitness and wellness, while expending the maximum level of calories in a high-energy class. Blast 900 founders Missi and Chuck wolf have crafted an approach to fitness like no other. Creating healthy bodies, minds and outlooks is at the core of their thinking and in everything they do. This is the perfect workout for a beach beauty searching for the best cardio around!

Snag the Perfect Travel Snacks

July 5, 2010 by Nicole S. | Comments (0)

Summer is finally here which means many people are planning their summer getaway. So after packing the bathing suit and sunscreen, what’s next to go into your bag? That’s right, must have travel foods! Read on for some insight from our wellness guru Jamie Dougherty.

Of course, fantastic food awaits you upon arrival. However, it is not always fun to trust the culinary “delights” along the way. Airplane and airport food? No, thanks! To make sure you don’t get hungry before reaching your final destination, it is important to pack a reusable grocery bag full of edibles that will keep well for at least 24 hours without refrigeration.

Here are the best travel friendly foods that will withstand up to 30 hours of travel. They are all delicious, nutritious, and easy to pack.

1. Dried fruit and nuts- Favorites are peaches, apricots, cherries, dates, prunes, walnuts, almonds, and pecans. Just make sure they are organic and sulfur-free.

2. Fresh fruit with hard cheese- Apples and oranges work best.

3. Roasted garbanzo beans- Rinse and drain 2 cans of garbanzos. Mix with olive oil and salt and roast at 400 degrees for 30-40 minutes. They are yummy and a great protein source.

4. Tamari sunflower and pumpkin seeds- A perfect snack when you want something fatty and salty. Click here for a yummy, crunchy recipe.

5. Honey tea cookies- Make a whole batch of these and grab one every time you need something sweet. Click here to find out how to make yummy cookies.

6. Cut veggies- Celery, radishes, carrots, and sugar snap peas work well. They also help keep you hydrated on the dry plane.

7. Your favorite chocolate bar- What can I say? Never travel without chocolate. My favorite is the Alter-Eco BlackOut bar. YUM!

8. Crackers- These will keep you way from the baggies of pretzels. The best brands are Ryvita, Dr. Kracker, and Mary’s Gone Crackers.
So this summer, whether you are traveling long distances or just doing a few day trips, be sure to pack these snacks for the journey. I promise they will keep you energized, full, and away from all the junk along the way.

To receive your fill of healthy living tips become a JAMIE|LIVING Facebook Fan or follow her on Twitter! You can also find delicious recipes at http://www.jamieliving.blogspot.com/.

Jamie G. Dougherty is the owner and founder of JAMIE|LIVING, Health and Lifestyle Counseling. She is an AADP certified Holistic Nutrition Counselor with a private and corporate practice that offers assistance nationwide. She is passionate about deliciously healthy food and specializes in helping her clients transform their lives through the power of nutrition and self-care.

*written by Jamie Dougherty for the CRAVE company

Next Page »