happenings

Is it Haute in here, or what!

Glam Shop Online

Glam and glitz were on full display at the Mbar & Fuse Lounge for the ultra fab launch party for the GlamShopOnline.com. Visionista and Owner, April Lamons, rolled out the chic-carpet for the unveiling of her innovative online boutique, Glam Shop Online. This virtual boutique features chic apparel, shoes, and accessories that are both haute and alluring…with new styles added daily!

Nikka Shae and April Lamons looking GLAM

Nikka Shae and April Lamons looking GLAM

 

Ok, so we Fashionistas-On-The-Go are always looking for the hottest trends, but we don’t have time to visit the local boutique. So what do we do? Hmmm… Well, here’s the solution. From the convenience of your home, or office (or anywhere you get your glam on), you can find the “hautest styles” like you just walked into a trendy boutique. Glam Shop Online offers this experience in a virtual emporium featuring the latest trends and the season’s forthcoming styles, all at the click of your mouse. How haute is that!?

 

 

Tangie Larkin and Nikka Shae with Tangie's audio book L.O.V-ME

Tangie Larkin and Nikka Shae with Tangie's audio book L.O.V-ME

 

The event was a glamorous affair which featured Seraphin Cognac, who provided the cocktails, while DJ Mami Chula kept the music going, and Actress and TV/Radio personality Tangie Larkin emceed the event…and let me tell you, Tangie was in rare form. Oh! Guess who won an audio copy of Tangie’s book L.O.V-ME during the giveaway? …….ME! Yeah!!! I can’t wait to check it out during my Monday morning commute. The event also featured models in a runway exhibition showcasing pieces from the Glam Shop Online collection. The pieces were fab, or course, and so were the models. It was great seeing the models in the actual pieces from the online store.

 

April Lamons speaking to the crowd about her vision for Glam Shop Online

April Lamons speaking to the crowd about her vision for Glam Shop Online

 

 

The highlight of the night was during April Lamons’ speech, where she challenged us to aspire to always follow our dreams without ever giving up. Words of wisdom from a woman who is living her dream, IN STYLE!

 

happenings

Feeling a bit Fox’y

Hello Stiletto at Fox's

It was another shoe-tastic event with the ladies from Hello Stiletto; this time at the fab Fox’s boutique in Buckhead.

Nikka Shae and the ladies from Hello Stiletto

Nikka Shae and the ladies from Hello Stiletto

This was my first time at Fox’s boutique and I must say that it definitely won’t be my last. They have a great selection of discounted designer clothes and shoes that are very fun, trendy, and affordable. So, if you’re looking for a fab outfit that you won’t see every other girl rockin, AND you wanna keep your wallet happy, Fox’s is the way to go.

Look at all those fab shoes

Look at all those fab shoes

 

Ok, so the Hello Stiletto ladies were in full slaughter mode with all those killer shoes at this month’s event. Of course we did our customary sashay down the pink carpet, and the light bites were great as always.

 

 

These Hello Stiletto events are great for meeting other ladies who share the same passion for fabulous shoes.

 

Check out these studded Loubies

Check out these studded Loubies

And, the winner of this month’s “Best in Shoe” was….. drumroll, please…. an “oh so fabulous” pair of Christian Louboutin’s beautifully adorned with studded spikes! Well, you can never go wrong with a fab pair of heels, Fox’y clothes and fun times with Hello Stiletto.

 

See you ladies at next month’s event!

*All photos courtesy of Brian Cronin

cravings

Oh My, Gigi’s!!!

Gigi's Cupcakes

I’m going to coin a new phrase… OMG!

What? You say that’s not so new? Well, let me tell you IT IS! Oh My Gigi’s (OMG) is what I said after taking my first bite of the most decadent cupcake this side of Heaven, compliments of Gigi’s Cupcakes in Norcross GA. Now, call me crazy, but I could faintly hear the sweet melody of cherubs serenading me with each bite. 😀

Gigi's Cupcakes Grand Opening

Gigi's Cupcakes Grand Opening

Ok Nikka. Back to reality.

Anyone that knows me knows that I have a serious fetish for cupcakes. It’s true! I’ve been to sugar rehab (several times).

So, while driving up Peachtree Corners Circle near the Forum shops, out of nowhere appeared this quaint cupcake shop; like an oasis in the Sahara. Yes, it was exactly how I imagined it to be with all those bright, yummy looking colors of pink and lime  and chocolate, Oh My!

 

So, as I gathered my senses and proceeded in, I was pleasantly greeted by the shops’ owner, Deena Coughlin, who thanked me for stopping by. Of course I had to get the skinny on ALL of their 33 delicious varieties (eat your heart out Baskin Robbins).

Look at all those lovely cupcakes. OMG!!!

Look at all those lovely cupcakes. OMG!!!

Meet Deena, the owner of Gigi's Cupcakes in Norcross

Meet Deena, the owner of Gigi's Cupcakes in Norcross

 

There were so many to choose from, and I was more than willing to make the selection process last as long as humanly possible. 😀

One of my favs is the Wedding Cake, which was a white cake topped with vanilla buttercream frosting and sprinkled with tiny white sugary beads. It looked just like a mini wedding cake. The other flavor that I adore is the Scarlett’s Red Velvet. This cupcake was a classic red velvet cake with a vanilla filling, and topped with cream cheese frosting, a white chocolate heart and red sugar crystals. I felt like a kid in a cupcake shop (literally) surrounded by sweet goodness that I could not resist. Now where have we heard that story before?…hmmmm

 

OMG!!! All boxed up and ready to eat!

OMG!!! All boxed up and ready to eat!

Deena gave me the grand tour of the place which featured a delicious display of their vast selection of freshly baked treats, which naturally complimented their fun and inviting ambiance. And, get this…they change the menu daily! Wow!

Nikka Shae with her sweet treats in hand

Nikka Shae with her sweet treats in hand

 

Ok, I’m headed back to Gigi’s right now!

So, if you’re ever in the area you should stop by Gigi’s Cupcakes to grab yourself a little piece of heaven. Believe me its well worth the visit (or two, or three, or…) 😀

glam on

“Counter Chic” beauty tips with MiMi J

Laura Mercier - The New Beauty Secrets

Once again, Saks 5th Avenue provided the backdrop for another makeup extravaganza by Laura Mercier.

Nikka Shae with makeup artist MiMi J

Nikka Shae with makeup artist MiMi J

Celebrity makeup artist, MiMi J, was on hand to provide tips and tricks for appliqué techniques. MiMi also shared some of her coveted beauty secrets to get that perfect look for the summer.

MiMi had me to empty my makeup bag, of which was choc-full of lip gloss. In case you didn’t know I’m the Connoisseur de Glosse’, which means I know a lil something about lip gloss, AND have probably been through an immeasurable amount of the stuff. So when MiMi went through my makeup bag I thought she was gonna have me committed to rehab because I have so much of the stuff, but she assured me that therapy was not in my immediate future and that the pink and coral colors I had in my stash were in for the season. Wheeeew! That was a close one!

How's this for a makeup collection?

How's this for a makeup collection?

 

So, thanks to MiMi J I know I’m in line with all the trendy colors for summer, and I also got some new makeup tricks to add to my repertoire. Thanks MiMi! 😀

We also discussed the importance of having a primer and a tinted moisturizer in your makeup stash. The Laura Mercier collection has a great moisturizer that goes on very nice and smooth which is ideal for sensitive skin like mine. I love it!

 

Laura Mercier Summer makeup

Laura Mercier Summer makeup

MiMi instructed me to cleanse, tone, and moisturize before applying makeup as part of my everyday facial regimen. She also gave me samples of Laura Mercier’s primer; which by the way is NOW a permanent addition to my makeup bag. And speaking of my makeup bag…Thanks to MiMi, it will be on display at the Smithsonian throughout the month of August, so if you’re ever in the DC area you should check out the exhibit. 😀

Drop by the Laura Mercier store in Saks at Lenox Mall and let MiMi J get your makeup bag ready for the season (or the Smithsonian).

etc, etc

‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ attend pre-grand opening at new BarOne lounge

The ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta‘ cast were in full swing at a pre-grand opening party at Atlanta’s newest supper lounge BarOne.

Hmmm…If the RHOA girls were there, well, you know it’s gotta be up to par! And, since I’m a sucker for all things “fresh and new” around town, you know there will be plenty of restless nights until the official opening on July 15. Hey, I already have my speed dial fingers primed and ready for that day. 😀 So, in my best Shereé Whitfield voice…”Who gonna check me (in) boo?!”

Let the countdown begin!

Nikka Shae and Shereé Whitfield at House of Blues Houston

Nikka Shae and Shereé Whitfield at House of Blues Houston - "Who gonna check us boo?!"

See the article of the event here.

‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ at new BarOne

glam on

Candy coated nails…and a lil something extra

Essie Nail Polish

Essie nail polish is the bomb.com!!! Sorry, I couldn’t resist. 😛

"Shop Til I Drop" nail polish by Essie

"Shop til i drop" nail polish by Essie

 

I have several colors in this brand, and I love them all! “Shop till i drop” is one of my favorite colors in their Summer collection.

Just imagine;  this color on your finger tips and on your toes while trying on that fab pair of Manolo Blahnik peep-toe shoes… I would definitely “drop while I shopped” for a pair of those bad boys!

 

Who Run the World…GIRLS!!!

 

Manolo Blahnik Floral Cutout Pump

Manolo Blahnik Floral Cutout Pump

 

 

And, speaking of those Manolo Blahnik peep-toe shoes, these are what I had in mind that would compliment those freshly manicured toes.

Nothing says style like a great pair of shoes (queue angels singing). I had the privilege of meeting George Malkemus, the President of the Manolo Blahnik brand at a launch event for their exclusive line for Saks 5th Avenue at Phipps Plaza in Buckhead a few weeks ago. Someone pinch me….please!!!

See pics from the event here.

 

style setter

Fall into Fab! Prints that make a statement

Fall into Fabulous with prints that make a statement

The Tribal trend is in for the Summer and all the way into the Fall. Watch the Sun set over the horizon with this exotic and wild fashion feature that screams “Out of Africa” and “Into your closet”.

Here are the essentials needed to pull off this great look:

1. Tribal Trends Dress from Ashley Stewart $16.50

2. Tribal Statement Necklace from BCBG Maxazria $78.00

3. Chic Cuff Bracelet from BCBG Maxazira $48.00

4 .Tribal Style Edge Ring from BCBG Maxazira $28.00

5. Wood Platform Sling back Braided Shoe Rose Gold from Jessica Simpson Collections $59.99

So, the question is….Can you tame the wild beast that is within you? I know I can’t!

 

 

 

happenings

Sugarcoated wishes and wedding bell dreams

Sugarcoat nail and beauty bar

Ahhh! Summer is officially upon us, and I can hear the sweet jingle of wedding bells! Yes, it’s true! Your girl is in full planning mode and let me tell you… if someone offered to pluck each of my eyelashes one by one in exchange for planning my wedding for me I would jump at the chance AND give them the tweezers to do it. Let’s just say that it’s quite the undertaking and deserving of professional assistance, or therapy, or which ever comes first. I told my hubby-to-be that if we pull this off without a hitch we would have officially qualified for a one month stint in a mental ward, of which he replied, “I’ve been there a few times already and it’s not all it’s cracked-up to be”. Ba-doom-bing!!!

Rik Ducar contemporary mens clothing

Rik Ducar contemporary men's clothing

 

So, the Atlantan Brides, Studio Wed, and Lemiga Events were sponsoring a “Wedding Date Night” for “brides and grooms to be” at Rik Ducar’s contemporary men’s clothing store, and Sugarcoat nail and beauty bar in Virginia Highlands. And I thought, hmmm a “date night” at a clothing store AND nail spa? Ok, so what time does the event start and how long are we allowed to stay before we’re asked to chip in on the rent money? 😀

This wedding soiree featured scotch tasting, cigar rolling, light bites, desserts, a mobile spa, mini makeovers, and a wine tasting. But we will get into that later; lets talk about getting a lil help with my strategy for pulling off the perfect wedding.

Romance was in the air

Romance was in the air

Upon entering the Rik Ducar clothier we were immediately drawn to the display arrangements which featured various themed options for stationary, place settings and linens. I definitely swiped a few ideas from the displays as they were very beautifully done with each providing an ambiance that was very stylish, romantic, swanky, and magical.

Now we all know about my addiction to all things sweet; so you know I couldn’t pass up the dessert display provided by Sift Atlanta….two words, corn-cakes! On second thought, make that three words, mac-a-roons! 😀

Endive's provided the light bites and their wonton tacos are a must try

Endive's provided the light bites, and their wonton tacos are a must try (again)

 

Endive‘s catered the light bites, and I must say their Thai chicken filled wonton tacos were absolutely deelish! And paired with the Tree of Life Pomegranate Wine, we were soon looking for a comfy spot to snuggle and be serenaded by the Camerata Quartet who provided the string-based acoustics…very elegant.

 

Nikka Shae at Sugarcoat looking fab as usual

Nikka Shae at Sugarcoat looking FAB

 

 

After receiving my personal massage I was as good as done. Oh, the swag bags by the sponsors were chock-full of goodies and gift certificates that I will be using very soon. All-in-all the event was magnificent and inspiring. I must say, it was very nice to get away from the monotony of planning for my “big-day”, de-stressing, having my “whoosa” moment(s), all while getting some great ideas on making my special day even more spectacular.

Well, I’m off to Sugarcoat for my day of pampering…and also to drop off my half of the rent. 😀

 

 

 

 

etc, etc

Got a taste for chic and sexy?

Amai Bar and Dessert Lounge

 

Have you heard of the Amai Bar and Dessert Lounge located in the historic Castleberry Hill district of Atlanta? Well, if you haven’t you don’t know what you’re missing. Amai which means sweets in Japanese, held their Grand Opening on June 13th, and I must say that their ginger infused Peach Cobbler with sugar coated wonton crisp is by far their signature treat…well, at least my sweet tooth agrees!

Amai waitresses with Ultimat Vodka

Amai waitresses with Ultimat Vodka

Ok, so here’s the skinny on the event… Upon arriving at Amai we were greeted by the lovely and fab Amai waitresses (who were all dolled up in LAMIK makeup) with samples of their decadent Japanese & Southern Fusion Desserts in hand. Of course I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to nibble on a few samples of which immediately sent me on a one way trip to dessert heaven…Delicious!!!!

Variety of delicious treats

Variety of delicious treats

 

 

 

 

 

The event  was serenaded by DJ Salah Ananse who kept the party going at full throttle, while Ultimat Vodka provided the guests with signature cocktails.

 

Romantic seating at Amai

Romantic ambiance and seating at Amai

The ambiance was very sexy and chic. The sheer draped seating was intimately candlelit and just oozed romance. I’m certain I shed a tear (or two) when the night came to an end. Amai should definitely be on your list of places to unwind with friends after a long day of being FABULOUS. Or, maybe you just wanna kick back, relax, and chill with that special someone. Oh, and don’t be surprised if you see us there!

Nikka Shae and "hubby" Jason at Amai

Nikka Shae and "hubby" Jason at Amai

 

 

 

So, the next time you wanna get your “sexy & sweet” on, visit Amai and experience “The Sweeter Side of Castleberry”.

etc, etc

Truly fit for a King

Welcome to a Regal experience

“Greetings Your Majesty”, was the ambiance that was conveyed as I entered what appeared to be a kingdom exclusive to men, with the kind of service and convenience you’d expect from your very own personal stylist. But, this wasn’t some ancient city of medieval folklore, it was the Kings of Atlanta Grooming Lounge & Spa in Buckhead. A seemingly palatial facility that endeavors to give the men of Atlanta the royal treatment they deserve.

Hmmm…a spa for men. An uncommon notion you might say?

Your Kingdom awaits in the Grooming Courtyard

Your Kingdom awaits in the Grooming Courtyard

Believe it or not, men appreciate all the pampering that is generally reserved for women (at any spa around town). But, we (men) need a little bit more than a “mani and a pedi”, and someone to listen to our ups and downs with the opposite sex.  We desire a place where we can unwind from a hard day of ruling our worlds. A place where we can congregate with other like minded professionals to discuss business matters, or just to kick back and relax from conquering the day. A place where we can receive personal attention to refining our “swag” with styling advice that is tailored towards distinguishing ourselves from obscure men. A place where we can be groomed and “pampered” by skilled artists yet maintain our masculinity in the process.

 

The Kings of Atlanta offers these male exclusive luxuries and more.

Let The Royal Experience begin

Let The Royal Experience begin

 

At Kings of Atlanta you will receive detailing services from “crown to toe” that is typically reserved for royalty and referred to as The Royal Treatment. These services include fine haircuts, warm towel treatments, razor shaves and even relaxing shampoos. And that’s just the spa area. Head upstairs and enter into Solomon’s Quarters; with its full service tailoring consultants, a personal stylist, massage lounges and an executive boardroom dubbed the “Head of State” Conference Room.

 

Enter Solomon’s Quarters to tailor a look fit for a King

Enter Solomon’s Quarters to tailor a look fit for a King

 

The Monarchs (as the staff is respectfully referred to as) are a mixture of masters groomers, aestheticians, manicurists, image consultants, and massage therapists who are ardent at making each client feel Regal.

Now men, ask yourself…When was the last time you had a razor shave? Hmmm…

Honorably yours,

KING Jason III