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CRAVE CRUSH the urban girl's blog to all that you CRAVE
Impress with Letterpress
Sending out invitations for your upcoming event? Looking for a thank-you card? Need a gift tag? Let’s face it: your event is going to be fab; the person you are thanking is more than awesome; and gift tags make your present look so much more exciting… so do not go for the same-old! Turn to Modus Paperie & Press!
Modus Paperie & Press is a letterpress printer that can take care of your printing needs whether it be for social, business or personal purposes. Their creative masterminds will come up with a perfect design just for you and will have them printed on various products of your desire. AND they offer workshops at their studio – how cool is that?!?!
Remember, you are fab and everything you do is fab. So, leave an impression with Modus (moduspress.com)!
Live Free!
There aren’t very many people who would say no to a healthy, active lifestyle. Â Who wouldn’t want to go to a yoga class, have a gym membership, take care of themselves or travel? Â But life often gives us constraints…like money. Â What if I were to tell you that now you CAN indeed do all of that without having to worry so much about your bank account. Â It would be hard to believe but dear CRAVE lovers, it is true – all thanks to Living Free Canada.
With the mission of “[enhancing] people’s lifestyles by creating awareness of all the exciting opportunities to live their passions,” Living Free Canada was established in the fall of 2008 right here in Vancouver!  Become a member and get the coupons to live your life and to enjoy the things you enjoy, GULIT-FREE!  The Elite Coupon categories include Lifestyle, Leisure, Beauty and Fitness.  You simply log in, print the desired coupon and you are good to go!
I can’t wait to try one of the Fitness coupons so I can be stress-free, calorie-free, guilt-free while Living Free. Â What about you?
Picture Perfect!
It’s an undeniable truth- sometimes our lives get a little too hectic and we forget to recognize the important moments in life. Starting a new job or finishing school, becoming a grandmother or mother-to-be, celebrating an anniversary or a birthday- nearly everyday life gives us something to celebrate! As much as we’d like to capture all these moments, we’ve all gone through the horror of waiting in line at the department store studio and the insane fees at the independent studios- and let’s face it, after all that we are NOT happy photo-ready campers!
Here’s the good news ladies! Bopomo Pictures recognizes these difficulties and offers a photo-studio that’s flexible, stylish, and affordable. Their experienced photographers and consultants work with you at every stage of the shoot and create perfect portraits without leaving your pocket empty! Fun, friendly and chic, this is a place where you can come back to time and time again, worry and worry line free! Work it ladies, and capture those unforgettable moments in picture-perfect, fabulous style!
SPOTTED: the best social mediarites to keep you updated!
Apparently, if you are from the Upper East Side, you’ve got Gossip Girl to keep you connected to the “scandalous lives of the Manhattan’s elite.” But let’s face it: you are most likely not from the Upper East Side and when it comes down to it, who really cares about the Serena’s and the Blaire’s of the world? If you are anything like me, I’m sure you want the good stuff: the best shopping deals and the hottest spots in town. Wouldn’t life be great if you could stay connected by getting notified of the latest happenings in our very own city of Vancouver? Well, stop wishing my friends because we have our own version of social mediarites who will keep you updated on the best shops, events and everything else in between!
If you are in need of some retail therapy, make sure to check out Vancouver Vitamin Daily. It features everything from the “Latest Steals & Deals” to the coolest shops under every category imaginable. Doctor’s order: Sign up for Vitamin Daily and start getting your daily dose of Vancouver today!
Everything about Vancouver that you need to know in one spot! You can count on her to let you know about the hottest shows and festivals, cool things to do around town and even about the history of Vancouver. Her blog posts will make you feel like a tourist in your very own city. Make sure to enter her contests as well!
Check out the latest fashion and beauty items (and of course the deets on where you can find such essentials!) at TheStyleSpy.com. There are pictures and even videos so you know exactly what to look for. With the help of The Style Spy, you can start looking better than Serena and Blaire.
With these social mediarites, who needs Gossip Girl?
Until next time, xoxo CRAVE Vancouver.
The Urban Girl’s Manifesto is back!
Attention to all the chic, savvy and stylish women in Vancouver! We at CRAVE Vancouver are proud to announce that the newest edition of our Vancouver guidebook will be hitting shelves soon (Fall 2010 to be exact). For those of you who don’t know, CRAVE Vancouver is much more than a guidebook. CRAVE Vancouver, also known as “The Urban Girl’s Manifesto”, is a savvy one of a kind lifestyle guide devoted entirely to the most prominent local businesses, owned by women. Punctuated with descriptive text and photos full of colorful energy and stylish spark, reading CRAVE is like opening a door to your very own party and fashion show. With only the best of the best and nothing less, the third edition of the CRAVE Vancouver guidebook promises to exceed and go “to infinity and beyond” your expectations! We can’t wait (really we can’t!)  to announce the newest additions to the 3rd edition of our Vancouver guide:
- CRAVE guides are officially going green! All of our books are now locally printed, FSC certified and printed with soy ink on elemental chlorine-free paper with 10% recycled material.
- A brand new “Intellegensia” section will be added. This section includes business-to-business service providers such as Marketing Consultants, Public Relations Specialists, Lawyers, Graphic Designers and much more!
- Two words: CRAVE Savings. Now, each guidebook will come fully equipped with an entire page of exclusive discount offers from various businesses featured in the guidebook (who doesn’t crave to save?!)
With such great additions to the guidebook we can barely contain our excitement. And now that you’ve had a little sneak peek on what’s to come, we hope you’re just as excited as us here at CRAVE Vancouver. Remember, the CRAVE guide is always on the hunt for chic, stylish and inspirational women in business. If you or someone you know fits the bill, please don’t hesitate to contact us at arpen@craveparty.com
Grad Shopping Guide 101
We’ve all heard the saying, “the tassel’s worth the hassle!” and those of us who have walked across that stage, looking fab in a gown and a cap know that it couldn’t be true-er. And yes, it is that time of the year again – time to be proud and celebrate the favourite graduates in our lives. Their diplomas prove that they have done all the hard work but…what about YOU? Have you begun your journey of finding a gift? Perhaps you have started a potential gift list with a picture frame with a graduate written on it being the first item. Sure, a picture frame will do but your graduate didn’t settle for mediocrity and neither should you! We know it can be stressful, finding that perfect gift for your perfect graduate but don’t you worry, we are offering you Gift Guide 101. Course objective: to help you find a fantastic gift that’ll make your graduate say, “You are the best!” Course material: CRAVE Vancouver; we have found the best boutiques around Vancouver and included all the deets! There is no test (except for the reaction you’ll get!), all you need to do is put your shopping shoes on and get boutiquin’! You will also be a graduate in no time!
Favourite Gifts (#219-123 Carrie Cates Ct)
The name says it all: Favourite Gifts. You’ll find tons of items made by local designers so your graduate can always remember the beautiful Vancouver (and you, of course) wherever life may take her! Everything is one-of-a-kind and unique and it is sure to bring her the attention that she deserves!
Fine Finds (1014 Mainland St)
Whether you are looking for jewelry, clothes, handbags or shoes, Fine Finds has it all. It is like walking into the art classroom with all of the supplies you could possibly need and more! The best part? You don’t even need to know what you are looking for; you are sure to find something at Fine Finds! Don’t forget to pick up a cute card for your graduate here before you leave!
Bella Ceramica (1381 Marine Dr.)
If you can’t find it, then make it! At Bella Ceramica, you can create your own masterpiece; a plate for cookies, a coffee mug that will probably become your graduate’s best friend in times of stress and the list goes on. You can add your own personal touch and make it that much more special. Afraid that you are not artistic enough? Don’t worry, you’ll still get an A+ for effort!
Hello, Summer!
How many times a year do we utter the words, “If only there were more hours in the day…”? Well, on the summer solstice, you will get your wish since today, the sun shines longer than any other day of the year. Today of course also marks the official start of summer, and with it, we celebrate all the best things about this much-anticipated season! To welcome the return of flip-flops, barbecue’s, vacations and more, we’ve compiled a list of activities to do in order to take advantage of those extra minutes of sunlight. Grab your friends and family and head out – you won’t want to miss a second of your summer solstice celebration!
A picnic is a simple no-brainer for a summer occasion, but you might decide to get a little creative for the special occasion by coordinating a late-night sunset picnic in your city’s most scenic setting. Bring a playlist of songs with the word “sun” in them to set the right mood.
If you’re an avid outdoors-woman, you’ll want to really maximize your extra minutes of rays! Head out for an
evening hike, run, or bike ride and extend it a little longer than usual. You’ll get an extra boost knowing that this is the only night you’ll be able to savor the sunlight during your routine workout.
Spending your solstice doing water activities is an excellent idea if you live near a body of water. Boating, surfing, kayaking, or even just lounging beachside will give you that summer glow you’ve been missing all winter. Plus, watching the sun lower over sparkling waves is a sight that can hardly be beat, and one you’ll want to store in your memory for the next winter.
Say Mother Nature decides to throw you a curveball and sends rain instead of shine, well don’t let that stop you from enjoying the spirit of the day. Curling up with a book and hot tea can be relaxing during a summer rainfall or storm especially if enjoyed from a patio or porch. If the day is more gray gloom than thrilling boom, head to your local arboretum or greenhouse to get your tropical nature fix.
Hats Off, Celebrations On!
Each spring, we celebrate the return of backyard barbeque’s, the blossoming of hydrangea’s, and the accomplishments of the thousands upon thousands of spankin-new grads. We all know it’s not exactly smooth sailing out there for our latest diploma holders; but we want to do all we can to ensure the departure from school and foray into the working world is at least a little bit brighter (a little sparkle goes a long way). We’ve surveyed the land in search of all the elements that make up a great grad gift: utility, novelty, and FUN! Here are the unique shops and services we found, sure to be the second best thing your grad receives – next to that hard-earned diploma. And of course, all the shops feature one great gift for the future entreprenesses of Vancouver – the CRAVE Guidebook!
Zing Paperie & Design (#60323 Jervis St, Coal Harbour, Seawall)
Once the commencement parties have ended, and the caps have been tossed, a graduate will need a way to stay in touch with her wide circle of friends and professors. Sure, she’s got Facebook but a handwritten note says a lot more these days. Personalized stationery might be the ideal gift for your technologically-overworked grad which you’ll find in droves at Zing Paperie & Design, along with other thoughtful gifts like handcrafted journals, photo frames to capture the special moment.
zingdesign.ca
Changes Clothing & Jewellery Bar (4454 W 10th Ave)
This boutique’s name alone is fitting for the new graduate in your life, but so is its new and like-new selection of designs and accessories. The place has been named Vancouver’s Best Consignment Store Award multiple times since 2002, and its jewellery bar features one of a kind Canadian artists. A special necklace to commemorate the occasion or a great pair of working-gal shoes will make a fabulous gift.
changesclothing.com
Markus J Hair & Well-Being (2567 W Broadway)
After weeks of long, sleepless nights spent studying in the library, your grad deserves a little pampering. This Vancouver salon is all about providing their customers with a totally indulgent experience, with customized color and cuts, signature facials and hair and scalp treatments. Owner Mona Leung also holds private hair workshops, so that the new grad can enter the new phase of life with a brand-new look.
Our CRAVE Connection Cafe Goodies!
We are pleased to announce details about our outstanding door prizes for tomorrow.. Don’t forget to drop off a business card at our “CRAVE Connection Cafe“! Here is what we have lined up for you! Â If you want a chance to win any of these amazing prices, don’t forget to sign up for our CRAVE Symposium!Â
Absolute Confidence: As an empowered confident women, the wonderful Suzanne Fletting will inspire and empower each woman to achieve her greatest potential with a new found purpose and a heightened sense of enthusiasm! A lucky winner will receive A DVD of the High Heel Appeal Class & 1 complimentary pass to the next class!
Fairmont Willow Stream Spa: This spa will help you escape your fast-forward, mad current world and bring you to a quieter place to recover, so you can dive into life again – energized. We will give away 2 gift certificates for a Signature Pedicure!Â
Keeping Good Employees On Board: Employee Retention Strategies to Navigate Any Economic Storm: Written by our team building mentor, Dawn McCooey, one entrepreness will receive a copy of this must-have guide to create the perfect team!Â
Lifestyle Selling for Women Workshop:  Valued at $395, one entrepreness will attend this workshop on Friday, June 11th. It includes Sales Personality Assessment valued at $175, eTools, a One-to-One Coaching session afterwards and tons of fun with other women entrepreneurs. You will have a chance to meet the wonderful CEO & Founder, Pauline O’Malley, at our event!Â
The Smart Cookies: A copy of The Smart Cookies’ Guide to Couples and Money: Earn More, Argue Less, Achieve the Life You Want . . . Together- Featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show, MSNBC, the New York Times, New York Daily News andMoney Magazine, The Smart Cookies help women take control of their finances, attract more money into their lives and turn their dreams into reality! We are very honored to host Smart Cookies co-founder, Andrea Baxter, at our event!Â
ING Direct: Since 1996, ING Direct has grown from a mere concept to a global enterprise, with over 20 million customers in nine countries. The Orange Code recounts ING Direct’s intriguing story, explaining the philosophy of its founder Arkadi Kuhlmann.
Branding Basics for Small Business: How to Create an Irresistible Brand on Any Budget:  Available in June 2010 and written by one of our very own mentors, Maria Ross, one lucky entrepreness will receive a copy of this fabulous book!Â
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Shine on!
Marilyn Monroe once sang “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend”, but she forgot to mention our soft spot for sparklers like blue topaz, rose quartz, Pacific opal, crystals, and well…we could go on. It’s no secret that a woman’s love for sparkle runs deep, nor is it news that a fine piece of jewelry can make or break an entire ensemble. Luckily for Vancouver’s fashionistas, there is no shortage of fancy, fun, and fabulous gems that are sure to make you the belle of the ball – or just brunch. Because shouldn’t our jewels bring out the best in us? That’s what a BFF does, after all!
Star Sparkle
Constantina James of Simply Sublime Design (150-3737 Oak Street)Â is no amateur when it comes to decadent jewelry design. With a star-studded clientele that sparkles just as bright as her baubles, her quaint Vancouver atelier is a true treasure trove. The studio also carries a bevy of designer clothing lines just to make sure that your new pair of 24 K Rose Gold drop earrings will fall exquisitely next to that Ella Moss jersey dress.
Glam-a-rama
Jeweliette‘s salon-style boutique (692 Seymour Street & W Georgia St) is a sophisticated spot for the jewelry aficionado. Run by a dynamic mother-daughter team, the shop offers an eclectic mix of modernly hip and classically cool pieces. Glamour girls take note: an aqua color crystal bracelet makes a stunning accent against summery white fabrics and is perfect for the CRAVE gal who wants to stand out in a crowd.
Fine Design
Like its name, Blue Ruby jewelry boutique showcases a colorful juxtaposition of richly unique jewelry designs from a list of global artisans. Since the first store opened in 1998, Blue Ruby has expanded into seven Vancouver locations to feed the appetites of its jewelry mavens. Visit the site for a complete list of their shops, and note their fabulous commitment social causes both locally and beyond. As if you didn’t already have enough reasons to shop here!