happenings

Chocolate Holidays with Oh! Nikka

Charm + Chocolate: Hendri Bendel and Godiva holiday shopping

Hey Chocolate lovers!

Tonight I will be covered in chocolate… literally! That’s right… I’m headed to several fabulous holiday shopping events at Lenox Square where tantalizing treats and candy-coated accessories will take center stage.

First up is a Holiday VIP sip & shop event at the Henri Bendel store where girly goodies will flow like caramel. I absolutely love Henri Bendel and can’t wait get a taste of their hautest buys for the holidays. At tonight’s affair guests will enjoy champagne and plenty of discounts to fill their stockings with loads of Bendel bling just in time for Christmas. I’ll be covering this fab shopping soiree (and myself with Bendel jewels) throughout the night, so check back to see the fun as it unfolds. Apologies in advance to Instagram if your servers happen to crash from all the pics. You’ve been duly warned. 😉

Next stop is GODIVA’s gourmet boutique where I will be hosting a fabulous shopping experience with a few of my #BloggerBoos. My “taste buds” and I will enjoy one-on-one gifting advice from a GODIVA Chocolatier, as well as tasty treats and fabulous shopping discounts throughout the night. I will be bringing you all of the deelish dish LIVE from tonight’s event so stay tuned! Oh, and I’m sooo looking forward to being reunited with GODIVA’s new Truffle Flights. If you haven’t sampled GODIVA’s Truffle Flights collection you are in for a tasting experience unlike any other. Not long ago I had the honor of hosting, as GODIVA’s Atlanta Ambassador, an exclusive VIP experience for the launch of the Truffle Flights here in Atlanta. The event was simply spectacular and it literally rained truffles all day long! Ahhh…The memories…

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arts & entertainment

InstaLive: Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker

Tis the season for enchantment— And nothing evokes holiday magic like the Nutcracker. For well over a century Tchaikovsky’s endearing musical tale of a young girl’s adventure with her handsome Nutcracker Prince has captured the hearts of millions. And Atlantans will journey through the wonderful world of the Nutcracker once again as the Atlanta Ballet presents its adaptation of this time-honored tale. Presented by Belk, choreographed by Artistic Director John McFall, with live music by the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra, Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker premieres its 54th staging of this holiday classic tonight at the Fabulous Fox Theatre. And in case you can’t make tonight’s grand performance you can still get your tickets for upcoming performances thru December 26 HERE.

I had the pleasure of attending this marvelous show last year and I must say that it was simply spectacular! I can’t wait to attend the premier gala tonight with my family. From the fabulous choreography to the beautiful set design and the gorgeous costumes, Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker conjures up a magnificent journey filled with excitement and surprises from beginning to end. And I will be sharing all of the magic and splendor with you via Instagram LIVE so stay tuned!

Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker is presented by Belk with choreography by John McFall and music by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky live with Atlanta Ballet Orchestra led by principal guest conductor Gary Sheldon. Run time is approximately 2 hours, including a 25-minute intermission.

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@ the movies

12 Days of Madea

Lionsgate’s newest comedy, Tyler Perry’s A MADEA CHRISTMAS will open in theaters nationwide, Friday, December 13, 2013! Tyler Perry’s A MADEA CHRISTMAS stars Tyler Perry, Tika Sumpter and Anna Maria Horsford in this hilarious comedy where Madea dispenses her unique form of holiday spirit on rural town when she’s coaxed into helping a friend pay her daughter a surprise visit in the country for Christmas. Get ready to laugh this holiday season. To view the official trailer, please visit: http://www.amadeachristmasmovie.com/

In celebration of the movie, Atlantans get a chance to participate in a host of special events across the city this weekend for “12 Days of Madea Christmas”. Here is a lineup of the festivities.

Day 1, Friday, December 6, 2013
Missed Opportunity with Madea “Red Friday” Sale
Jimmy Jazz at Greenbriar Mall
5:00PM – 8:00PM
Come to the Jimmy Jazz in Greenbriar Mall between 5 and 8PM for some special savings and a chance to win prizes!

Day 2, Saturday, December 7, 2013
Pictures with Santa at Greenbriar Mall
Santa Pavilion/Macy Stage at Greenbriar Mall
11:00AM – 2:00PM
Meet us at Greenbriar Mall’s Macy stage starting at 11AM. #HoHoHo, let’s hope for snow! Get your annual Christmas picture taken with Santa and get some Madea items all at once!

Day 3, Sunday, December 8, 2013
A “Madea Waffle”
Infusions Bistro & Bar
11:00AM – 1:00PM
Catch us at Infusion Bistro & Bar at 11 AM for a “Madea Waffle” and special discount! Half red velvet, half key lime pie, all delicious! #goodfood

Day 4, Monday, December 9, 2013
Sugar & Spice, “A MADEA CUPCAKE” Sure is Nice!
CamiCakes Buckhead
11:00AM – 2:00PM
Stop by CamiCakes in Buckhead starting at 11AM for our special Madea themed cupcake. The first 100 people get $1 off their cupcake. #Yum!

Day 5, Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Ugly Christmas Sweater Party
Opera Nightclub
3:00PM-6:00PM
Taste the holidays with a festively themed drink at Opera Nightclub! Come in an ugly sweater for a special surprise!

Please use the Hashtag #HOHOHO when posting pics on twitter and Instagram.

glam on

Fabulous Fragrances for Every Occasion

Hi Lovelies!

When it comes to fragrances, it’s important for each woman to have her own signature scent. With this being said, a woman must also know that not all scents are created equal. Meaning there are different fragrances for different occasions. Pick a couple staple scents for this season and you won’t go wrong– No matter where you are.

All Day Sexy

When picking out a perfume to wear all day, you want to make sure it’s not too overbearing or too sensual. Aim for scents that have a lighter aroma, channeling both flowery and citrusy scents to play up the girliness. You want your all day aroma to be just enough that it leaves a wonderful impression on those you walk by. Here are a few fragrances that will make your days much more brighter.

Dolce & Gabbana – Light Blue (Macy’s)

Prada – Candy L’Eau (Sephora)

Workplace Sophistication

Just because you’re a professional doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice smelling fresh and lovely. In fact, what’s more powerful than a woman who’s smart and beautiful? Picking a fragrance for the workplace can be tricky, because you don’t want something too overwhelming. Stay away from super sweet scents and dark, musky scents. You’ll want something light and feminine with just the right touch of sophistication. Check out these work-worthy scents.

Versace – Yellow Diamond (Macy’s)

Bvlgari – ‘Omnia Crystalline’ L’Eau de Parfum (Nordstrom)

After 5 Allure

Five o’clock hits and you’re ready to take on the town. Shed those stuffy work clothes in exchange for a flirty dress and spritz yourself with a unique perfume that will keep people guessing all night long. Shoot for a fragrance that is both girly and intriguing. Look for aromas that include rose oils paired with contrasting hints of plum and a little musk. Play up the fun and sensuality! These scents will add plenty of allure after five.

Calvin Klein – Downtown (Sephora)

Bond No. 9 New York – Perfumista Avenue (Saks 5th Avenue)

Jimmy Choo – Flash (Sephora)

Date Night Sexy

Whether it’s a date with a serious significant other or a first time meet-up, you’ll want to impress with your looks and your aroma. Scent goes a long way in the game of attraction. When you want to stand out as sexy and feminine, find a fragrance that has vanilla or sweet undertones with a hint of sensual fruitiness. A no-fail trick is to spray a little perfume right behind your ear so that when someone comes in for a hug (or a kiss!) they get a quick whiff of the sweet stuff. Here are a few fragrances to make your date night even more sexy.

Jo Malone London – Peony & Blush Suede Cologne (Neiman Marcus)

Trish McEvoy – 3 Snowdrop & Crystal Flowers Eau de Parfum (Saks 5th Avenue)

Stop by the shops at Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza to find the perfect scent that will take you from day to night with pizzazz.

style setter

Haute Handbags Styles for the Season

Hey SIMONistas!

Whoever said diamonds are a girl’s best friend clearly must not have had the right handbag. Every woman knows that there are different bags for different occasions, moods and seasons. So it goes without saying it is essential to have the best handbag(s) that will take your autumn/winter wardrobe from a seven to a ten. Fall styling made easy: just add one of these bags!

Michael Kors Selma Studded Saffiano Tote

This red saffiano leather bag by Michael Kors is the perfect errand companion. With a removable shoulder strap and enough room to hold your planner and mid-morning snack, this statement studded tote has enough edge to spice up an otherwise plain and simple outfit.

Brahmin Anna Satchel

Boasting a sexy, sleek, tri-texture combination of “stout croc, caviar lizard and papaya vachette leather,” this has all the fixings for the perfect bag. There’s just something about the tassel, tone and texture that makes the Anna satchel a must-have for this season.

Coach Legacy Tanner Two-Tone Crossbody

We love the two-toned sophistication this handy-size crossbody implies. It comes in three different dual-color combos, each with its own touch of class. The oak and steel blue duo is a more low-key choice, but a timeless look that goes great with a relaxed sweater and dark denim.

Tory Burch Saddalrina Oversized Hobo

This is a staple item for every fashionista. This hobo bag is awesome because it’s structured like a small shoulder bag, but still has the quality we love about oversized hobos – the size. Tory Burch’s rendition is an updated look for the bag we all know and love.

Kate Spade 2 Park Avenue Beau Bag

You’re sure to turn some heads with this one. Cutesy yet classy and sexy – what’s not to die for about this bag? This model comes in about five other fun colors, but the leopard print and black/neutral scheme paired with the bow detail is a perfect marriage of sweet and sassy. Take this one out when you’re ready to show ’em who’s boss.

Brahmin Atelier Hingham Clutch

Lock and load ladies, because this clutch packs a powerful punch. In the gunmetal option, Brahmin’s classy clutch is a force to be reckoned with – especially when it’s paired with contrasting fall styles such as plaid and lace. Be a little nice and naughty this fall.

Tory Burch Parkan Crossbody Mini Bag

All you need is this little gem for your night out on the town! Wear it with your all-white ensemble and show off your trendy modern style. Textured leather is hot, and this crossbody’s definitely got it goin’ on.

Be sure to stop by the shops at Lenox Square & Phipps Plaza to find these and many more haute handbag styles for the season.

style setter

Faux Real! Fabulous Faux Leather & Fur Fashion

Hey SIMONistas!

This season we are getting edgy! With models on the runways flaunting fierce fur coats and leather-laden looks, the fashionista might wonder how she could pull off such a style. No longer is fur considered for the rich and leather for the bikers, these two trends have come back into action with a chic, contemporary twist. The best part is, designers have figured out ways to create both materials without using the real thing. We’ve got an abundance of faux fur and faux leather, so our animal friends aren’t suffering either.

Faux Fur

When focusing on this trend, think big. With such an attention-grabbing material as is, you have the perfect chance to be as dramatic as you want without channeling Lady Gaga (meat dress, anyone?). For this trend, you want to find either a fur jacket or a fur vest that can stand on its own. It will likely be the centerpiece of your outfit, so you’ll want to keep the rest of the look rather simple. An over-the-top faux fur vest will look great with a simple long-sleeved tee underneath and skinnies and combat boots (or booties). An oversized faux fur vest looks great with jeans or tights and a similarly colored top. You can wear your fur finds over just about anything, as long as the rest of your look is minimalistic.

Faux Fur Fashion

Bloomingdale’s – vest, blouse, jeans, booties, necklace; J.Crew – bracelet; Tory Burch – handbag

Faux Leather

You can finally wear leather without feeling like Sandy from Grease (not that that’s an entirely bad thing). Designers have found ways to put faux leather on just about any style. You name it, there’s probably a leather version of it. And that’s what makes this trend suddenly so versatile; you can wear it without feeling uncomfortable in pieces you wouldn’t normally buy. If your style is preppy, you may want to find blouses that only have a little leather lining on the sleeves or capping the shoulders. Or perhaps grab an all-out leather dress, pair it with tights underneath, and let the accessories bring it all together. Leather skinnies are also a great way to nonchalantly wear the trend. Lace or patterned tops work as a great complement. For the days you’re feeling extra edgy, wear a pair of leather boots complete with studs and buckles; just match your bag to the color and they are wearable 24/7.

Faux Leather Fashion

Bloomingdale’s – dress, booties; Michael Kors – handbag, bracelet; Neiman Marcus – necklace

Be sure to stop by the shops at Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza to curb your faux fashion fix.

Nikka Shae The Undercover Socialite

style setter

Back to Basics: How to rock your basics with style

Hey SIMONistas!

Being in style is more than just buying the hottest trends. It’s also knowing how to incorporate the pieces you already have into a fresh look. Some of your old favorites don’t need to be tossed to the curb in an attempt to be trendy. There are many ways that you can make these pieces look brand new. It’s all about combining the old with the new and accessorizing.

Simple Sweatshirt

Accessories: Neiman Marcus (Lenox Square), Handbag: Coach (Lenox Square), Booties: Tory Burch (Phipps Plaza)

At first glance, a sweatshirt seems to be nothing special. You take it out of the closet because you’re cold, not thinking twice about how easily you can transform it into a chic top. A simple sweatshirt turns into a stylish sweater when you pair a statement necklace with it, or stack your wrists with an assortment of bejeweled bracelets. You can also have fun with the bottoms. Add sass to your sweatshirt by adding a leather skirt, over-the-knee socks and booties.

Classic Denim Jeans

Pumps: Neiman Marcus (Lenox Square), Handbag: Michael Kors (Phipps Plaza & Lenox Square), Jacket: Michael Kors (Phipps Plaza & Lenox Square)

Just because there are a ton of other options for bottoms doesn’t mean you have to neglect your favorite pair of jeans in the name of fashion. In fact, jeans are a great go-to when you want to dress up the rest of your outfit without feeling over-the-top. A heel or flashy flat will take your jeans a long way, and when you add a handbag that complements your shoes, the look will really come together. Classic denim may not necessarily be “trendy” at the moment, but that quilted leather jacket you’ve been dying to wear sure is. It will look great with those jeans.

Basic Blouse

Blouse: Bloomingdale’s (Lenox Square), Booties: Neiman Marcus (Lenox Square), Sweater: Saks Fifth Avenue (Phipps Plaza), Handbag: Tory Burch (Phipps Plaza), Accessories: Bloomingdale’s (Lenox Square)

Blouses are very versatile. You can pair a long-loved blouse with just about anything. A cardigan can prep up a blouse. A jean jacket or vest and dark skinnies can make it edgy. A statement necklace and leather leggings will add to its trendiness. The beauty of the blouse is that it never goes out of style. There will always be small tweaks you can make that will completely change the look of a simple blouse. Adding something as simple as an infinity scarf or colorful necklace will transform the piece so much that even you might not recognize it!

So be sure to stop by the shops at Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza and transform your wardrobe from basic to BAM in an instance!

glam on

Statement Necklaces for Any Occasion

Hi Lovelies!

There’s nothing wrong with making a statement every time you walk into a room, no matter what room it is. In fact, it’s encouraged! There’s no better way to do so than supplementing your outfit– any outfit– with a stylish statement necklace. Here’s how you can leave a lasting impression at any occasion… with barely any effort. (Can we get a hallelujah?!)

Holiday Party

The holidays are a perfect reason to get dolled up. Whether your party this season is with family, coworkers or a long-time friend in a distant city, you’ve got to be ready to shine. With that being said, a glitzy statement necklace is not too much! Be festive and play off of the fun winter icons we all know. Perhaps pick a necklace with snowflake-reminiscent shapes. Icy colors and romantic, floral pieces are great for this type of occasion.

Sunday Stroll

So you want to take a nice walk to enjoy a relaxing end of the week? Being relaxed doesn’t mean you have to throw on a sweat suit. You can, however, get comfy chic with a nice pair of leggings, simple white tee, and a daytime statement necklace. Think brighter colors or less ornate pieces, so you don’t overwhelm the outfit (or yourself!). You’ll be casual and cute– A perfect combo to meet new people.

Night Out on the Town

Get sassy with your nighttime statements. Giant statement necklaces are hot right now, and you’ll be even hotter when you find the right ones for you. Don’t be intimidated by the large surface area of these accessories; instead, get excited that the rest of your outfit can be totally simple. A plunging V necklace is oh-so-flattering and shows you’re not afraid to stand out. Wear your hair in a tousled high pony to look even more fierce.

On the Job

Sometimes we’re afraid of looking too over-the-top for work. Depending on your job’s dress code, you could most likely pull off statement necklaces that are classy and understated. One rule of thumb to help you choose what’s work appropriate is to evaluate the necklace style in relation to its color scheme. Is it bulky and loud? Try to opt for something with more earthy tones if the necklace is ornate.

So no matter the moment, whether for a special occasion or just because, you are sure to make a statement in style with a fabulous statement necklace. You can find these and many more statement neckwear styles at the shops at Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza.

glam on

Fabulously Chic Tablescapes for Thanksgiving

Hey Lovelies,

After the Thanksgiving turkey, the star of the dinner table is, well, the table itself. And if you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner this year, why not give your guests something to remember…Besides, you’ve got to have something spectacular to place your fabulous spread upon and nothing less than stellar will do to display Grandma’s coveted recipe for bread pudding cupcakes.

Here are a few tablescape ideas to show off your hosting skills this Thanksgiving.

Gatsby-esque Gathering

A popular theme for 2013 has been The Great Gatsby. “The Great Gatsby” has always maintained a certain mystique to many people, thanks to the glamour, the clothing and the over-the-top luxury associated with the novel. This 20’s era style embodies elegance and sophistication and sets the perfect ambiance for a fabulous Thanksgiving dinner party.

Make it personal and create place cards with all of your guests’ names (or your initials) using an elegant (curvy) font. Think style here. Decorative gold and/or silver toned chargers along with fluted glassware set upon a white linen tablecloth will complete the look. Place appetizers on decorative silver-toned serving trays. Decadence is the key. For added allure use of that vintage broach that been staring at you for all those years from your jewelry box as a decorative garnishment around a napkin.

“Baroque” Beaded Table Runner, “Vetro Gold” Dinnerware & Glassware, “Mirasol” Table Linens, Firenze Marbleized Medici Hostess Tray. Find this look at Neiman Marcus.

Rustic-Chic

A rustic-style setting is always a classic look for the Thanksgiving. With seasonal hues and eclectic charm, a rustic setting will forever evoke the essence of a family gathering.

Think charming and casual, not formal. Create a centerpiece arrangement with seasonal-toned elements such as amber roses, hydrangea, dahlias, copper amaranth and ranunculus with a few sprigs of fall greenery, grasses and berries to signify the season. Scatter pine cones around it to complete the look. The key is to fill the table with colorful elements celebrating the bounty of fall. A platter filled with colorful root vegetables can be a gorgeous touch. Multi-tiered pillar candles of varying tones are always a nice touch. Best set on a bare tabletop, you can also place candles on a clear glass or brushed metal based to add a more polished look.

Choose a linen tablecloth, or if you have a wooden tabletop don’t use one at all. Wood is the base for creating a true rustic feel, so show as much of this texture as you can. As an added touch of rusticity and charm, consider using monogrammed mason jars and brushed metal flatware. For serveware go for contrasting colors like white or cream. These tones look stunning atop the rustic hues and also make for a nice backdrop for that delicious meal to come.

Emma Dinnerware, Personalized Mason Jar Mug, Perotti Flatware, Gilt Charger. Find this look at Pottery Barn.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

happenings

Macy’s at Lenox Square Celebrates Thanksgiving with Great Tree Lighting

There’s not a more nostalgic way to celebrate Thanksgiving Day in Atlanta than to experience the magic of the holiday season with the lighting of the Macy’s Great Tree at Lenox Square. Generation after generation of Atlanta residents have ushered in the holiday season with the lighting of the Great Tree, and the tradition continues this year as more than 100,000 people from all over gather at Macy’s Lenox Square to witness this cherished holiday event.

The lighting of Atlanta’s most beloved and recognized Christmas tree will take place at Macy’s at Lenox Square Mall from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thanksgiving night, Thursday, November 28, 2013. A pre-show concert featuring behind the scenes interviews and exciting performances by the evening’s entertainers will begin at 5:15 p.m. The celebration will be capped off with a fantastic fireworks finale set to holiday music – a moving and memorable way to kick off the holiday season! The Great Tree will be on display from Thursday, Nov. 28 through Jan. 1, 2014.

Macy’s Great Tree Lighting ceremony at Lenox Square (Photo courtesy of Macy’s)

A new tradition will begin this year as Macy’s lights a more ecologically friendly, reusable tree manufactured by Atlanta-based Christmas Lights, Etc. This year’s tree stands 56 feet tall and is adorned with 45,000 white and multi-color sparkling LED twinkle lights. More than 8 miles of light strands will be draped around the tree. The giant star atop the Great Tree will shine more than 56 feet above onlookers. Additionally, the show will have a new format as the Great Tree will be relocated to the North Macy’s parking lot providing a more intimate experience for the audience and Macy’s customers.

WSB-TV’s Jovita Moore and David Chandley return to host the live broadcast ceremony that will include a variety of performances to help light the tree, including musical performances by country singer and songwriter Brett Eldredge and a special performance by Megan Hilty from Smash and the current comedy Sean Saves the World. The Voice season four finalist Judith Hill will also be performing at the event. There will also be special performances by Macy’s All-Star Holiday Choir, Macy’sGreat Tree Children’s Choir and much more!

What a moving and memorable way to kick off the holiday season! I can’t think of anything more exciting than to spend Thanksgiving with my family at such a magical event. We will see you there! ~Nikka Shae

Lenox Square is located at 3393 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326

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