happenings

The 4th Annual Atlanta Food & Wine Festival Serves the South’s Best Eats this Weekend

Hey Food Lovers!

The aroma of enticing flavors and mouth-watering eats will fill the air in Atlanta this weekend as connoisseurs of cuisine, eatery enthusiast, and food aficionados from all over will bid bon appetite to a smorgasbord of flavors from some of the region’s best eats. That’s right; it’s that time of year again for the Atlanta Food & Wine Festival. Now in its 4^th year, the Atlanta Food & Wine Festival kicks off its annual food lover’s festival this weekend in Atlanta’s Midtown district. The Atlanta Food & Wine Festival is a weekend experience for guests who want to sip, savor and learn about the rich food and beverage traditions of the South. This legendary four-day eats extravaganza is even bigger and tastier than ever before!

The Atlanta Food & Wine Festival kicked off on Thursday, May 29th and runs through Sunday, June 1st.

*Get your tickets to the Atlanta Food & Wine Festival HERE.

I had the pleasure of attending an exclusive VIPeek kick-off event at the Lowe’s Hotel to preview the festival and to get a taste of the weekends’ activities, and I must say that you are in for a treat! Guests of the kick-off event indulged in some mid-morning nibbles in the events posh Connoisseur Lounge. Each year the festivals’ Connoisseur Lounge takes on a themed look and feel and this year’s vibe is Coastal Style. With fab furnishings provided by Ballard Designs, award-winning Peace Designs of Atlanta has created the perfect lounge-scape for this year’s Connoisseur Lounge… it is absolutely gorgeous!

Class is now in session…

The Atlanta Food & Wine Festival is all about great food and an even greater experience. AFWF offers a smorgasbord of culinary classes, cooking demos, and tasting rooms showcasing a variety of cuisines, cocktails, and confections, all with Southern flair and flavor in mind. If you’re a Pastry Princess (like myself) you can sample decadent desserts while also learning the techniques behind these delicious treats. Or if you’re a Beer Connoisseur (like my hubby) you’re taste buds will be in hops heaven in one of many stout-inspired sessions where you can sample award-winning beers and discover how to pair them with a variety of foods. I mean, where else can you sample amazing eats, get the dish on the dish, and score a few priceless recipes to add to your cooking repertoire?!

*Check out the complete class schedule HERE.

“A food lover’s paradise…!”

After teasing your taste buds at the culinary courses, you will be eager to turn things up a notch at the Tasting Tents. And with over 200+ vendors to sample, your taste buds will be in absolute nosh nirvana! In the word’s of my hubby upon entering the gates at the Tasting Tents… “WOW!!! It’s like we just entered into a food lover’s paradise!”

My advice… Come with an adventurous palate (and an empty stomach). 😛

*Get the run-down of the vendors showcasing their best bites in the Tasting Tents HERE.

I’m super excited to share this eating experience with you, so get your taste buds ready as I take you along for a culinary experience unlike any other. I will be dishing all of the delectable deets and serving up a buffet of pics from the festival below! But be warned, pics may WILL cause food envy. 😉

You can also follow the fun on Instagram at #AFWF14 and #OhNikkaFoodWineFestivalATL14

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happenings

Pub 71 ‘Scores’ with World Cup Inspired Eats

It’s almost summer, which means longer days, warmer weather, and… the 2014 FIFA World Cup! That’s right it’s that time again where the screams of victory and vuvuzelas can be heard from miles around. It’s that time when friends flock around TV screens to watch their favorite futbol teams compete for soccer supremacy. Yep, nothing sparks World Cup fever like a gathering with good friends over futbol and great food (of course)!

So in the spirit of get-togethers and great eats, Pub 71, located in Town Brookhaven, is hosting a fabulous food experience featuring tastes inspired by the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Guests of this exclusive event will enjoy savory samples from the Pub’s ‘World Cup Menu’ which features appetizers, entrees and desserts signature to each country participating in the World Cup this year. Countries like Brazil, Spain, Italy, and the good ole’ US of A will take center plate to vie for tastiest treat. I can’t wait to see what’s on the menu, and I’m taking you along for this exclusive eating experience!

So grab your appetite and your vuvuzela (well… maybe just your appetite for now) and follow me to Pub 71 for lots of fun and plenty of futbol inspired fixens. Food, friends, and futbol?!… Either way — it’s a GOALLLLLLLLLLL!!! 😉

You can follow the fun LIVE below and on Instagram at #OhNikkaWorldCupPub71 and #PubWorldCupHQ

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style setter

Trend Report: Black & White; The New Neutrals

There’s a new power couple in town…

There are two colors your closet can’t have enough of this summer. And ironically enough, they’re the most ‘un-color’ colors out there. Yep, we’re talking about black and white.

What’s been filed away to stay in the 60’s is now back on the fashion front in its freshest, boldest debut yet. Black and white is sleek, swanky and can be really fun too – think playful patterns, geometric and modern graphics.

Just because these stark shades aren’t jumping out like hot pink or bright orange would, the contrast between the two is enough of a statement to get heads turning.

Need visuals? Check out these cool ‘un-color’ inspirations for both work and play:

AT THE OFFICE:

Black and white have been the workplace’s BFF’s ever since we can remember. But there’s always a new way to style your office staples by adding in some new trendy pieces. Your favorite black pencil skirt or trouser pants can easily be transformed with a structured or patterned B&W top. Or play the opposite; wear a stark white skirt with a top that has floral graphics. Add a pair of swanky pumps and your office look is freshly modern.

MICHAEL Michael Kors Large Audrey Satchel (Michael Kors $428.00), MICHAEL Michael Kors Zip-Trim Blouse (Neiman Marcus $79.50), Halogen ‘Marissa’ Pump (Nordstrom $99.95), Floral Cotton Eyelet Pencil Skirt (LOFT $64.99)

AT HAPPY HOUR:

Dressing in black in white for “playtime” is easy, because the possibilities are endless. For the days you feel feminine, throw on a black and white shift dress with a print you love- and don’t be afraid to pick a pattern too busy, because the (un-)color simplicity will balance out any crazy design. Another option is to opt for a pair of black leather shorts, sheer white shirt and funky flats. The trick is to stay minimalistic.

Fine Pleated Hem Dress (Zara $69.90), Kendra Scott ‘Harlow’ Frontal Necklace (Nordstrom $195.00), I Married Adventure Book Clutch (Kate Spade $328.00), Prada Vernice Pump (Neiman Marcus $690.00), Christian Louboutin Philaer Patent (Neiman Marcus $675.00)

This season think less hue and more neutral and ~~add~~ some ‘un-color’ to your style with fabulous black and white shades.

happenings

2nd Annual Breakfast at Tiffany’s Soiree

Breakfast at Tiffany's Swan House Soiree

Close your eyes for a moment and imagine an all glam gathering among friends. The scent of springtime fills the air as beautiful blooms and shade trees are all around. You’re all dolled up and fancy, draped in gorgeous gems and pearls, surrounded by pretty things and little blue boxes, sharing in candid moments of laughter and great conversation. Now open your eyes… and visualize this moment coming to life…

On a sun-kissed day in May with a historic Swan House garden mansion as the backdrop and inspired by the grace and elegance of Audrey Hepburn, a group of lovely ladies converged for an intimate afternoon brunch unlike any other. Held at the fabulous Swan Coach House in the heart of Buckhead in Atlanta, and commemorating its 2^nd spring season, the Breakfast at Tiffany’s Soiree is an annual social luncheon that’s all about bringing women together in a celebration of sisterhood; encouraging and supporting each other; all in the name of glam of course. 😉

This year’s Soiree was co-hosted by my lovely dolls, Alicia (Ally McGlam), Talesha (Diva Xpress), and Kiwi (Kiwi the Beauty). Guests of the event were treated to dainty surroundings and decadent servings while being serenaded by the Breakfast at Tiffany’s movie soundtrack and other fun 60’s era tunes. Upon arrival guests were greeted with tasty mimosas before entering the Swan Room where posh personalized place settings awaited each of them. I must say that the brunch menu at Swan Coach House was absolutely uh-mazing! We enjoyed their signature chicken salad that was served in delicate hand-made timbales with the most dee-licious creamy frozen fruit salad this side of heaven. But the piece de resistance was their French Silk Swan dessert (clutches pearls…). This tasty delight features a scoop of chocolate mousse wrapped in Chantilly whipped cream and topped with a sprinkle of silver almonds and a cute swan-shaped pastry. It was sooo delish!!!

Fabulous Tiffany & Co boxes served as the centerpiece for several giveaways featuring gifts by Stella & Dot, Miss Jessie’s, Karen’s Body Beautiful, and Jewel Mint. Soo Soo Tasty also provided sweet surprises wrapped in tiny Tiffany-inspired boxes. Too cute! And, a few lucky ladies walked away with the events most crave-worthy goodies, the coveted little blue box featuring fabulous gifts from Tiffany & Co!

Kisses to my diva dolls Alicia, Talesha, and Kiwi for co-hosting this years’ event! Huge hugs to Stella & Dot Independent Stylist Carol McKnight for providing that fabulous assortment of jingle jewels for the ladies. Thanks also to Miss Jessie’s for the gift bag goodies, and smooches to the fabulous Sophia Starns of Soo Soo Tasty for the yummy take-home treats! Thanks to E37 Photography for capturing all the candid moments, and Marks Media for the amazing video! Special thanks to Tiffany & Co for the fabulous gifts…the ladies loved them all! Last but certainly not least, thanks to the Swan Coach House for providing the perfect setting for this event. The ambiance was utterly amazing! I can’t wait for next year’s event!

What started as a simple get together last May has blossomed into something very special. I could not have imagined that this intimate affair would be the thread to sew women together in sisterhood. So as we sashayed the afternoon away I couldn’t help but feel a sense of empowerment and gratitude being surrounded by so many fabulous ladies. Thank you all for sharing your stories and experiences… and I hope to see you next May! Until then…

Hope.Dream.Inspire.Love.

So in the spirit of all things chic and without further ado, here’s the video highlight of the Breakfast at Tiffany’s Swan House Soiree at Swan Coach House!

Enjoy!

Also be sure to follow all the fun on Instagram

#SwanHouseSoiree and #BreakfastatTiffanys

style setter

Trend Alert: Gilded Glam – Metallic and Iridescent Inspired-Styles for Summer

Summertime is meant for nothing other than sunshine and good times- so you need to make sure you look just as hot as you feel! One way to make your look sizzle this summer is to get on board with one of the season’s hottest trends: Metallic and Iridescent tones. Not sure how to wear these shiny styles? Here are a few looks to ensure that anywhere you go; you’re style will sparkle!

It’s easy to keep it cool and classy in denim and a pretty blouse. But if you wanna take it up a notch try adding a metallic bag for an unexpected pop and your outfit will shoot from a six to a 10. But beware- you’ll get a whole lot of attention with this intriguing new dimension.

Karen Millen Jeans – Vintage Wash Collection (Bloomingdale’s $110), Alexander McQueen Demanta Metallic Mini Clutch (Saks $695)

The girl on the go needs a wardrobe that can keep up with her busy lifestyle- who said your look has to suffer just because you can’t stop home before happy hour? Your quick fix: Wear a fun, flirty dress that’s light enough for daytime, but spice it up with some hot iridescent pumps and you’ll be dancing the night away.

Alexis Bittar Lucite Liquid Metal Hinge Collar Necklace (Bloomingdale’s $325), Hugo Boss Hermosa Dress (Bloomingdale’s $545), Giuseppe Zanotti Pointed Toe Pumps (Bloomindale’s $710)

Summon your cocktail party confidence when you slip on something that sparkles. For maximum “wow” and a guaranteed good time, try an all-out shimmer dress. Keep your hair soft and your accessories minimalistic to offset and accentuate the boldness. It’s a sure bet you’ll shine all through the night and make an unforgettable impression.

J. Crew Collection Pleated Twill Dress (J. Crew $350), Stuart Weitzman’Nouveau’ Pump (Nordstrom $355)

Stop by the shops at Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza to find these and many more must-have metallics and irresistible iridescent styles for summer.

style setter

C. Wonder-ful Last Minute Gifts for Mom

Hey Lovelies!

Mother’s Day is quickly approaching. And if you’re like me your hectic schedule hasn’t allowed much time for you to pick the perfect gift for that special lady in your life. Well, if you’re STILL searching for something fabulous for your fabulous Mom, C. Wonder has taken all the guess work out of gift giving this Mother’s Day. They have a Wonderful collection of WOW worthy goodies that will definitely put you at the top of the list as Mom’s favorite. Here are a few last minute Mother’s Day gifts that will make her think you spent all year shopping for.

This versatile Porcelain Word Plate ($18) is stamped with the perfect word for Mom: “Love.”

Talk about a moveable feast… With this fabulous Chevron Picnic Basket ($128), Mom can take her culinary creations to the beach or the park in style.

So whether she’s spending the day at a beach or an afternoon around town, wearing this elegant Harbor Tile Print Wrap Dress ($128) will surely keep a smile on her face as the compliments roll in.

With this roomy, go-everywhere Printed Stripe Signature Tote ($78), Mom will never second guess how much she can pack.

This Bamboo Embossed Frame ($28) is the perfect way for mom to showcase that fun snapshot of you and her.

The perfect mix of charming and classic, these Suede Flamingo Smoking Slippers ($138) are a particularly sumptuous combination that Mom will enjoy from heel-to-toe. She may not want to take these off at the end of the day.

Mom’s initials will be the feature of her fashion with this fabulous 14k gold-plated brass Pave Cube Initial Necklace ($38) and matching Pave Edged Delicate Initial Cuff ($38).

Mom can store and stash her keepsakes and personal items with panache in this gorgeous Gold Flecked Cork Jewelry Box ($78).

So whether she’s mother, mom, momma, mommy, or ma, give her a fabulous gift from C. Wonder that says thank you for all that you do. Be sure to stop by the C. Wonder store at Lenox Square to find these and many more Mother’s Day goodies.

Happy Mother’s Day!!!

happenings, wander lust

InstaLIVE! Vixens at the Vineyards

Hey Lovelies!

There’s nothing like a gathering among friends. Sprinkle in a girl’s get-a-day getaway, top it with majestic views and tasty wine, and you’ve got the perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon. So in the spirit of midday getaways we’ll whisk away on this lovely afternoon to the fabulous Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery in Dahlonega Georgia.

happenings

Bloomingdale’s Host Fashion Benefit for Atlanta’s Women and Girls

Bloomingdale’s hosts fashion showcase to benefit Atlanta Women’s Foundation

It was a fabulous night of fashion and fun as several of Atlanta’s famed stylistas and fashionistas converged to strut their style in a runway showcase and fundraising event. Held at Bloomingdale’s in Lenox Square and in support of The Atlanta Women’s Foundation, a community outreach organization that aides women and girls, guests were treated to live music, light bites, and custom cocktails by Vixen Vodka. This fab fashion benefit and showcase featured crave worthy looks by Danita Knight, Elizabeth Noe, Lisa Cannon Taylor, Kimberly Euston, and Ché Watkins, along with “day to dusk” looks by fashion stylists Molly Webb and Jordan Wright from The Spin Style Agency; Trina Small of BabyShopaholic; and Dana LeBoeuf and Blake Thibodeau of Cultured Blog.

One of the highlights of the event featured special guest and honorary model for the night, Shanay Benton. In 2012 Ms. Benton received the Sue Wieland Embracing Possibility Shining Example honor from AWF for her work with Create Your Dreams (CYD), a youth-enrichment program for students living in underserved areas of northwest Atlanta. An alum from this program herself, Benton has gone on to become a second grade teacher and a member of CYD’s board of directors.

The Sue Wieland honorary award was created in recognition of Sue Wieland and her husband John who made a $1 million gift to AWF in 2006. Each year AWF honors their generous gift with the Sue Wieland Embracing Possibility Award, a special grant of $10,000 given at AWF’s Numbers Too Big To Ignore fundraising luncheon to a nonprofit organization based on the organization’s work with an individual women or girls.

Following the fashion showcase guests were welcomed to a personal shopping experience by the featured stylists where they could covet the seasons latest looks by Bloomingdale’s. Proceeds from sales were donated to The Atlanta Women’s Foundation.

Thanks to be Everywhere for the gracious invite. This was such an amazing event and I had a wonderful time!

About The Atlanta Women’s Foundation
The Atlanta Women’s Foundation’s mission is to be a catalyst for change in the lives of women and girls and to end generational poverty. The Foundation has invested more than $12 million in Atlanta area nonprofit organizations. As the only public foundation in Georgia dedicated solely to women and girls, AWF identifies and leverages community resources to make a significant impact on breaking the cycle of generational poverty. For more information, please visit www.atlantawomen.org.

happenings

Breakfast at Tiffany’s Soiree at Swan Coach House

Join Nikka Shae (Oh! Nikka), Alicia (Ally McGlam), Talesha (Diva Xpress), and Kiwi (Kiwi the Beauty) for the 2^nd annual Breakfast at Tiffany’s Soiree. This exclusive brunch and social gathering will be held at the fabulous Swan Coach House located in Buckhead on Thursday, May 8 from 11am to 1pm.

Guests will be greeted with tasty mimosas before entering a beautifully decorated setting that flows gracefully into a gorgeous landscaped garden. With the historic Swan House mansion serving as the backdrop, guests will enjoy an elegant afternoon tea with delicious eats and sweet savories in this classic style Coach House. There will also be several giveaways where guests can participate for a chance to win one of many wonderful prizes including fabulous gifts from Tiffany & Co.!

There will be a photographer and videographer on-hand and lots of photo opportunities, so come dressed to impress in your Little Black Dress. Pearls are optional but encouraged.

When: Thursday, May 8^th, 2014 from 11am-1pm

Where: Swan Coach House located at 3130 Slaton Drive NW in Atlanta

Seating is limited and expected to go quickly so RSVP today at: http://swanhousesoiree.eventbrite.com

Use #SwanHouseSoiree and #BreakfastAtTiffanys to follow the fun on Twitter and Instagram

etc, etc, wander lust

Hyatt Atlanta Perimeter at Villa Christina to open May 2014

Proposed rendering of Hyatt at Villa Christina

A New Hotel with a Long History and Tradition

Just in time to usher in the summer season, Hyatt plans to unveil Hyatt Atlanta Perimeter at Villa Christina in late May 2014. The newly built hotel will have a seamless flow from hotel lobby into the famed Villa Christina.

Conveniently located inside the Perimeter and just minutes from Buckhead, Hyatt Atlanta Perimeter at Villa Christina will be situated in an 83-acre development that offers expansive outdoor gardens, meeting and conference facilities and wedding and special event venues, along with fine dining and recreational options. With 177 guestrooms, including 15 suites, Hyatt Atlanta Perimeter at Villa Christina will be able to accommodate corporate meetings, family gatherings, weddings and other special events.

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