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Hitting Happy Hour with Gal Pals

Friday, March 5th, 2010

After you’ve put in countless hours at work, there’s nothing you need more than the perfect happy hour to hit up with you and your girlfriends, right? Whether it be some fruity n’ frozen concoction or daintiest of cocktails–nothing quite beats a night out with the girls to blow off stress! Check out a few of the most CRAVE-worthy happy hours that we’re excited to hit up ourselves:

La Palapa (lapalapa.com)

At La Palapa, you’re sure to feel as though you’re relaxing under a palm thatch palapa – drinking a refreshing fresh lime margarita and savoring a handmade corn masa chalupa. This place brings forth the freshest and most vibrant homemade flavores of authentic Mexican cuisine – and quite an impressive selection of “sip-ables”.

Stop in Sunday through Friday from 4-7pm for 2-for-1 margaritas, sangria, draft beer and a peek at their special bar “antojitos” menu.

77 St. Mark’s Place
New York, NY 10003
212-777-2537

359 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10014
212-243-6870

Beauty Bar (beautybar.com)

Beauty Bar is the home of the original manicure happy hour. Often imitated but never duplicated, Beauty Bar was the first cocktail lounge to offer the luxury of sipping cocktails alongside a mani!

For just $10, indulge in one of their specialty cocktails, or a drink of your choice and the service is free. Perfect for parties of all types or just an evening out with the girls. Just make sure to call ahead for reservations for groups of six or more.

We CRAVE the Drop Dead Gorgeous cocktail (p.i.n.k. vodka, pineapple juice, rock star energy drink)!

231 E 14th Street
New York, NY 10003
212-539-1389

Katwalk (katwalknyc.com)

Hit up happy hour every Monday through Friday from 3 pm to 8 pm for specials on frozen drinks, domestic drafts, and premium wine and champagne. If you’re looking to satisfy that sweet tooth, try their signature cocktail, “The Katini” – a mixture of raspberry and vanilla vodka, Chambord, and raspberry puree. YUMMY! If you’re deciding to drink a little heavier, opt for a $15 open bar from 6-8 pm.

Every Wednesday from 3 pm to 8 pm, Katwalk plays your favorite Sex and the City episodes while you sip “Carrie Cosmos” or “Miranda Martinis”, or throw back some “Mr. Big Shots”. Go with a group of 8 or more girls and you get free appetizers for your party. 10% of all proceeds on Sex and the City nights are donated to the National Breast Cancer Foundation – even more reason to make a stop at this spot!

2 West 35th Street
New York, NY 10001
212-594-9343

Tags: Beauty Bar, beer, cocktails, cosmos, happy hour, Katwalk, La Palapa, margaritas, martinis
Posted in Sip / Savor | No Comments »

Organize your Life

Wednesday, February 24th, 2010

Sometimes our lives become overwhelmed by the mounds of papers from work and the never ending process of checking emails or the clutter of magazines, coats, shoes, and mail. Your unorganized life can create an enormous amount of stress. Take some of these tips into consideration to create a happier and more organized life for yourself!

OrganizeNY (organizeny.com)

According to OrganizeNY founder, Juli Oliver, organization is a skill that can be learned through a process of decisions. Since 2005 she has been helping clients by using her skills to creatively sort, dispose of, and control clutter. OrganizeNY is not afraid to tackle anything new. They are committed to providing long term solutions for short term problems.

Practice some of Juli’s tips for a more organized home:

For everything that comes in the door, something must go out.
Open you mail as soon as you get it. Recycle the junk, anything that’s not important or that will be sitting around and take things out of their envelopes
Never underestimate the uses for over the door shoe bags. They make great storage for your coat closet- gloves, scarves and hats. Bathrooms supplies and toiletries. Even kids arts and crafts. Just remember to place objects that are heavy in the bottom row.

Gotham Organizers (gothamorganizers.com)

Lisa Zaslow, founder of Gotham Organizers, never forgot what she learned as an 11-year old Girl Scout: Leave a place better than you found it. Since 2002, she’s helped hundreds of people and businesses make the most of their space, stuff, information and time, so they can focus on the things in life that are really important. Lisa’s Less Mess = Less Stress™ workshops and teleclasses have taught thousands of people how to do more in less time. Gotham Organizers doesn’t preach the conventional organizing “rules” (Lisa has yet to figure out how to touch every piece of paper only once and has clothes in her closet that she hasn’t worn in over a year); she takes a customized approach, working with each client’s specific needs, values, and space, to create environments and systems that truly work for them.

Practice some of Lisa’s tips for a more organized office:

Prevail over e-mail. Try to check and respond to e-mail at designated “sessions” rather than continuously throughout the day. Mute the incoming mail chime to make it easier to ignore each new message.
Minimize interruptions. When you really need to get something done, make yourself unavailable–no calls, e-mail or visitors.

Do you have any organization tips that you CRAVE to share?

Tags: Gotham Organizers, organization, Organize NY, tips
Posted in Enhance | 1 Comment »

Oh, baby baby!

Wednesday, February 17th, 2010

With bouncing bundles of joy on the way, baby showers are bound to be coming as well. What to get a mother-to-be can be a tough decision. Do you opt for something cute and classic like a onesie? How about a toy or game? With so many options to choose from, we have found some shops to CRAVE to pamper a mother-to-be, and maybe pick up a little something for you too!

Magic Windows (magicwindowskids.com)

When you think charming boutiques and high end shopping, there is no place better than Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Magic Windows has been and UES fixture for over 25 years, and offers the finest collection of classic children’s clothing and accessories. They also create beautiful and luxurious layettes for mothers-to-be, and assist you in selecting from their extensive selection of newborn and infant items to create the most memorable gift for any expecting mother. So whether you’re looking to create a gift basket or pick out a special outfit, Magic Windows is a must. They also specialize in personalization and monogramming of the items they sell, we love that!

1186 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10028

Thérapie New York (therapieny.com)

Whether you’re looking for plush toys or warm baby booties, this Upper West Side luxury lifestyle emporium has all the necessities to pamper a mother-to-be. Filled with books, toys, cute little onesies, and so much more, the treasures to be found at Therapie are endless. However, the owner and founder, Renee Chow, brings more to this fun boutique than simply shower gifts. This treasure trove knows no bounds. It’s the one stop shop for your face creams and other beauty products, fabulous headbands and funky hats, and you can pick up an extra pair of Spanx on your way out. It’s the perfect little place to buy everything you need and plenty that you want. We surely misplace many precious hours browsing all that Therapie has to offer. It is truly retail therapy at its finest!

309 Columbus Avenue (Between 74th and 75th Streets)
New York, NY 10023

EcoBabyBuys (ecobabybuys.com)

If you’re looking for the best in eco-friendly baby products, then look no further than EcoBabyBuys. They are committed to ensuring the four following criteria in the products they sell–the use of non-toxic materials and dyes, organic and/or recycled materials, eco-friendly packaging, and a commitment to the standards of fair-trade. Featuring everything from dolls to puzzles to diaper bags, EcoBabyBuys covers all the mom-to-be necessities in a super fabulous, eco-friendly way! Shop them online.

Tags: baby, baby shower, EcoBabyBuys, gifts, Magic Windows, Therapie
Posted in Moms | No Comments »

The Best of Cupcakeries… just in time for Valentine’s Day!

Wednesday, February 10th, 2010

With Valentine’s Day at the end of the week, many of us are looking for sweet treats to give our beau. If you CRAVE cupcakes like we do, you might find the perfect gift for your sweetie this year in these CRAVE-worthy cupcakeries.

Kumquat Cupcakery (kumquatcupcakery.com)

Devouring eight mini cupcakes seems to make us feel like we are consuming fewer calories than if we were to just eat one normal sized cupcake, but with calorie counting forgotten, there is nothing that would prevent us from eating as many of these cute and tasty mini cupcakes as we can possibly get our hands on. Owner, Keavy Landreth, has made an impact on us with her cute little cupcakes with big bold flavors. We just can’t get enough of them!

What makes them unique? These bite-sized cupcakes feature a variety of unique flavors that result in a mind-blowing experience that leave your taste buds craving more. Not sure about maple bacon or coffee caramel bourbon cupcakes? Just pop one in your mouth and savor the sweetness because there will be no going back.

You can order Kumquat’s cupcakes online or find them every Saturday and Sunday at the Brooklyn Flea Market. If you’re planning on picking up a few for Valentine’s Day, they have a PopUp Shop open February 11th-14th at 170 Franklin Street (between Kent and Java) in Greenpoint, Brooklyn.

sugar Sweet sunshine (sugarsweetsunshine.com)

With an idea in mind and a name that was taken from an etching on the cement that said “sugar Sweet sunshine, Love” in a big heart, this delectable cupcakery came to life. It’s hard to decide what we CRAVE more about these cupcakes—the light, fluffy, moist cake or the sweet, creamy, delicious icing? We’ve come to settle on the fact that it must just be the beautiful collision that happens when the two come together. They have hit the spot with serving up perfected recipes of the classic cupcakes that we all love!

What makes them unique? Set up more like your grandma’s cozy and out-of-date living room, sugar Sweet sunshine offers a comfortable and fun place where people not only pick up yummy tasting treats to go, but can hang out as if in their own space. Decorated with old furniture from the owners’ apartments and thrift shop finds, this cupcakery creates a cozy atmosphere that many shops in NYC miss out on.

126 Rivington Street
New York, NY 10002
212-995-1960

Sweet Revenge (sweetrevengenyc.com)

After being laid off from a job in the corporate world, Owner/Founder Marlo Scott got her sweet revenge by forgetting the life of working for “the man” and started a business that she could love and enjoy. With the unique concept of bringing tasty desserts and alcohol together, Sweet Revenge is not your granny’s cupcake shop.

What makes them unique? Aside from unique flavors and the wacky concept of a cupcakery and bar all in one, Sweet Revenge offers a list of beer and wine pairings to go with the cupcakes. You beau will be totally tantalized by the fact that he can have his cake and eat it too… and have a beer to go with it.

62 Carmine Street (Between Bedford and 7th Ave)
New York, NY 10014
212-242-2240

Tags: cupcakes, Kumquat Cupcakery, Sugar Sweet Sunshine, Sweet Revenge, Valentine's Day
Posted in Sip / Savor | 2 Comments »

Recap: 1st CRAVE NYC Buzz Party

Friday, February 5th, 2010

Through blistering wind and snow flurries, the wonderful women of New York City came out in droves to see what this CRAVE thing was all about!

Held in SoHo at Delicatessen, the first CRAVE NYC Buzz Party was a celebration of the some of the finest entreprenesses in the city, accompanied by sweet treats from Sweet Muse (thank you Laura Siner), savory snacks from PopChips and Delicatessen’s signature CRAVE Cosmos. Our fearless NYC City Leaders Inna Shamis and Danielle Bobish made sure the event went off without a hitch!

As the lounge area of Delicatessen buzzed with chatter and laughter, the amazing business owners found new friends in like-minded women throughout the course of the evening.

From shopkeepers and bakers to interior designers and fitness instructors, some of the area’s savviest female entrepreneurs came to sip and savor all that we CRAVE – the entrepreneur in YOU!

Check out the pictures from Buzz Party for a closer look!

Tags: Buzz Party, Delicatessen, PopChips, Sweet Muse
Posted in Events | 1 Comment »

Team USA: Women to Watch

Wednesday, February 3rd, 2010

Though NYC is not the ideal place for Olympians in training to live, the Northeast is filled with stellar athletes both on and off their respective “playing field” whether that be an ice rink, a 1,450 meter luge track, a downhill ski slope, an icy halfpipe, or supporting incredible charities, these women have what it takes to be totally CRAVE-worthy.

Hannah Teter- Snowboarding

After overcoming adversity with recovering from two surgeries in 2006, Hannah shocked the world by taking home the gold medal in the halfpipe that same year in the Winter Olympics in Torino. At age 19, she had accomplished something that few athletes could ever dream of, but a gold medal did not stop her from making a bigger name for herself. Following her win in Torino, Teter founded a charity called Hannah’s Gold, which uses proceeds of maple syrup sales–a Teter family tradition in their home of Vermont–and all of her prize money won at snowboarding events to support a downtrodden village in Kenya. In the fall of 2008, Hannah made a trip to the village of Kirindon to follow up on her initiative of building schools and digging wells for fresh water. While there, she stumbled upon a group of women and children afflicted with AIDS who had been abandoned by their husbands and fathers. As a result, the decision was made to buy land for these women so they could have a place to grow food and support themselves. In honor of Hannah, Ben & Jerry’s has created a special flavor called Maple Blondie where a portion of the proceeds goes to support Hannah’s Gold. So grab some yummy ice cream or check out Hannah’s Gold and make a contribution now!

With a story like this, how could you not CRAVE another gold for Hannah. At age 23, and her second run for Olympic gold, she certainly has our attention and support.

Emily Cook- Freestyle Skiing

This woman has the commitment and the heart of a fighter. At age 30, Vancouver will be her second Olympic Games, but it has taken her a lot to get here. With a Gold Cup win in 2002, and a bid for that year’s Olympics, everything seemed to be going right for Cook. However, two weeks later, in a training jump, she suffered severe injuries to both of her feet requiring multiple surgeries. Due to the nature of her injuries, Cook was left with the task of not only learning to ski again, but learning to walk. Though, with the dream of the Olympics still in her mind, she was more determined that ever to make a showing. With the support of family and friends, she made it to her first Olympics in 2006, and despite a lackluster performance in the skis, her drive to get her there is unforgettable. This Massachusetts native is considered to be better and stronger than ever, and is seen as a legitimate medal contender this go around. We’re excited to see her do what was considered the impossible!

Noteworthy:

Keep an eye out for Brooklyn Heights resident, 22 year old Kelli Stack. See her take to the ice with the womens Ice Hockey team. We’ll be cheering for you!

Tags: Emily Cook, freestyle skiing, gold medal, Hannah Teter, ice hockey, Kelli Stack, Olympic Games, Olympics, snowboarding, Vancouver
Posted in Travel | No Comments »

Absolute best in Cruise Wear

Wednesday, January 27th, 2010

Though the weather in New York is still bitter and bleak, the sun is beating as bright as ever in some parts of the world. With spring approaching and perhaps thoughts of a cruise floating in your mind, it is time to stock up on a warmer weather wardrobe to complement the bright sunshine you are headed towards, or at least that which you dream about. We totally CRAVE the cutest sunglasses, funky strappy wedges, and of course the most satisfying sundresses!

Selima Optique (selimaoptique.com)

Protecting your eyes from the suns harmful UV rays is crucial, but now there is no need to sacrifice fashion to do so. Selima Salaun, a trend-setting designer and professional optician and optometrist, has created a beautiful balance between fashion and function when it comes to her line of sunglasses. She understands that sunglasses are an integral part of a fashionista’s wardrobe, and we definitely appreciate that. Visit one of her three Manhattan locations to find the shades that compliment your outfit or your mood.

59 Wooster Street
New York, NY 10012
(212) 343-9490

899 Madison Ave
New York, NY 10021
(212) 988-6690

357 Bleecker Street
New York, NY 10014
(212) 352-1640

Coclico (shopcoclico.com)

Some say if the shoe fits, wear it. We say if the shoe fits, buy it in every color! Coclico’s shoe collection is to die for. Right now there is a great selection of booties and boots on sale, but don’t miss the sandals and wedges while ogling over the boot sale. With the lower arch of these cute wedges and the soft fabric and lightweight cork forming the platform, these are the perfect cruise-worthy and CRAVE-worthy footgear. It’ll be hard pulling us off the dance floor in these shoes.

275 Mott Street
New York, NY 10012
(212) 965-5462

Stella Filante (stella-filante.com)

Whether to be used as a beach cover-up or your shuffle board uniform, a sundress is a necessity for any warm and sunny day. Wow your friends and fellow cruisers in the vibrant sundresses found at Stella Filante. The store is full of bright colors, and you can’t help but smile upon walking in. With a variety of styles and colors available, these dresses are sure to flatter almost everyone. While you’re at it, check out the assortment of fun bags and accessories that will complete your outfit.

156 Ludlow Street
New York, NY 10002
(646) 484-5889

Tags: Coclico, cruise, fashion, Selima Optique, shoes, Stella Filante, Style, sundresses, sunglasses
Posted in Style | No Comments »

We CRAVE Couture!

Wednesday, January 20th, 2010

Coco Chanel once said that a woman should be two things: classy and fabulous. What better way to look your best than getting glitzed up in a new frock? Check out some of the designers that we CRAVE right now to find something unique, ultra chic, and gaining in the couture fashion scene. Though these women might not be Coco just yet, they have still come up with inspiring designs and concepts that allow you to look your best in a way that showcases your own individual style.

Cassandra Bromfield (cassandrabromfield.com)

To Cassandra Bromfield, each dress she designs is truly a work of art reflecting a deep understanding of International fashion imbued with her cultural heritage. Her dresses reflect quality and detail. Many of her gowns feature “Afrocentric Elegance” with bright colors, unique patterns, and a variety of textures. With her custom designs, she encourages incorporating special sentimental elements into the dress to give it a more profound meaning. Her designs provide the wearer the ability to showcase their culture and/or individuality by simply wearing something unique and beautiful. Bromfield specializes in custom designed wedding gowns and social occasion dresses.
(718) 388-2055

Saja, Inc. (sajawedding.com)

Saja in Korean: noun) a lion, verb) to buy

For founder Yoo Lee, the word Saja could not be more appropriate for her contemporary collection of womens fashion. Saja has been a labor of love, joy, and hard work for Lee and the elegance and beauty of her designs exhibits every bit of that. Her designs are light and whimsical; they are both effortless and timeless and the dresses cascade gracefully over a range of body types. Lee’s dresses have been a hit among many brides, bridesmaids, friends and family of the wedding, participants of prom, graduation, musicians, and anyone else that simply appreciates a beautiful dress.
250 Elizabeth Street
New York, NY 10012
(212) 226-7570

The Dressing Room (thedressingroomnyc.com)

This retail hotspot on Manhattan’s Lower East Side is something to be reckoned with. It’s a one-stop shop to hit a range of designers from ultra funky designs to sleek and sophisticated cuts. The Dressing Room is a co-op created to allow up-and-coming designers to showcase and sell their designs. In a market characterized by fierce competition and ever increasing rents, The Dressing Room provides a creative environment to allow fashion at its finest. Former stylist, and now owner, Nikki Fontanella dreamed of owning her own clothing shop and has gone a step further by allowing creative people do what they do best. Oh, yeah, did I mention that this swanky boutique is more than just for retail? The space also comes complete with a bar. Why not grab a drink and try on some ultra chic duds?
75A Orchard Street (between Broome and Grand)
New York, NY 10002
(212) 966-7330

Tags: couture, dresses, fashion, gowns, NYC, Style
Posted in Style | No Comments »