Say Yum: Last Minute NYE Rezzies

2008 is rapidly drawing to a close, and in case you’re searching for the perfect last-minute plans, Deacon has sniffed out some of the area’s best parties and deals.

Asia Nine is offering a “Lucky New Years Eve” menu, with a four-course meal reflecting Thai and Chinese influences. In Thailand, 9 is a lucky number, while the Chinese favor number 8. For $89.09, you can score four courses plus a sparkling wine toast. Options include Coconut-Lime Shrimp Satay with Mango Salsa; Crispy Spring Rolls; Surf & Turf (Filet Mignon with Coconut Shrimp) with Ginger Hollandaise Sauce;; Oven Roasted Salmon Fillet with Jumbo Lump Crabmeat & Champagne Sauce; ; and New Year Blessing Sashimi & Nigiri Sushi. For dessert, mouth-watering choices include Marquise Au Chocolate or ‘Paradise.’ Reservations are available beginning at 4 p.m.
915 E Street, NW, 202-629-4355; www.asianine.com

At Art And Soul, choose from an early or late dinner, or simply gather for a post-holiday brunch. A four-course menu is served from 5:30-8:30, with dishes like Trio of Duck, seared breast, sausage and duck cracklin’s with pomegranate red cabbage and fresh herb puree; and the Smothered Rib eye with grits, caramelized onions and bourbon cream. The $115 five-course late seating includes an added dish of hoe cakes, and a complimentary glass of champagne. If you’re searching for brunch options, the “Recovery Brunch” includes dishes like Hoppin’ John and is offered until 2:30 p.m. on New Years Day. A special $259 overnight rate also includes a $100 restaurant gift card. Visit www.affinia.com or call 1-866-AFFINIA for reservations.

Party Spanish-Style at Taberna del Alabardero, with a special five-course menu, including dishes like Sweetbreads and Shrimp brochette and Braised Squid with cauliflower and truffle emulsion, Turbot with a morel mushroom crust, chestnuts and porcini cream and Roasted Suckling Pig with figs marinated in sherry. After dessert, enjoy a Spanish New Years Grape Ceremony, where guests enjoy one grape per second for the 12 seconds counting down to new years, as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity for the 12 months ahead. A midnight toast of Cava is included in the $98 price. 1776 “Eye” Street, NW, in Washington, D.C., with an entrance on 18th Street, 202-429-2200; www.alabardero.com.

Indulge in the Seven Deadly Sins at Nage, with a seven-course tasting menu for $75, plus a complimentary Champagne Toast at midnight. Dishes include Greed, or Truffled Lobster Mac n’ Cheese and Shaved Oregon Truffles, Sloth: Pork Belly with Lemon Parsnip Puree and Pride - a seven layer chocolate cake. www.nage.biz.

OYA is offering two dinner seatings for New Year's, the first from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and the second from 8:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. For the first seating, guests may choose from a $28 three-course dinner menu consisting of innovative French-Asian fusion cuisine or items from the full sushi menu a la carte. The second seating will feature a five-course chef's tasting menu with sparkling wine toast at midnight, plus DJ & dancing and party favors for $95 per person. To spice up the event, New Year's Eve marks the return of 'Sex', a provocative brut rosé sparkling wine made of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes from California. 777 9th Street, NW, 202-393-1400; www.oyadc.com.

Mio is offering guests a chance to indulge this New Year’s Eve with a decadent four-course dinner. Seatings will take place at 5:30, 6:00 or 6:30 pm for $70 for those looking to be home when the ball drops, or at 8:30, 9:00 or 9:30 pm for $85. Chef Nicholas Stefanelli is also preparing an exquisite six-course tasting menu, which is available the entire evening for $120 per person. Mio welcomes all guests to join in a champagne toast at midnight and continue the festivities well into the morning at Mio’s bar. 1110 Vermont Avenue NW, 202.955.0075.

VOLT is offering two dinner seatings – 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Early seating guests can choose from a five-course tasting menu for $69 or a nine-course tasting menu for $109. Wine pairings are available for each tasting menu for an additional $35 and $50. In addition to dinner, VOLT’s lounge will offer an open bar, passed canapés and champagne toast. The lounge celebration will be 9:00 p.m. and is $75 in advance, $85 at the door and an additional $25 for dinner guests. 228 North Market Street, Frederick, 301-696-VOLT.

BLT Steak DC offers guests the prefect downtown location for a year’s New Year’s Eve celebration. BLT Steak’s extensive raw bar and prime meat options such as Japanesse Kobe Strip and Wagyu Ribeye, are prefect for those looking to have an exquisite night in the heart of the district. Dishes include Molten Chocolate Cake wih Fresh Peppermint Ice Cream and Eggnog Semifreddo with housemade gingersnaps and butterscotch snaps. 1625 Eye Street NW; 202-689-8999.

Urbana offers a three course $65 prix fixe menu, and guests booking reservations by 6:30 p.m. will get a special break at $50. Option include lobster bisque with spiced crab dumplings, prosciutto wrapped sturgeon with sautéed spinach and caviar cream, and a house-made pasta carbonara with fresh winter truffles and a poached egg. Dinner guests in the restaurant at midnight will receive complimentary champagne and party favors. 2121 P Street, NW, 202-956-6650.

Jaleo creates the ambience of a traditional Spanish noche vieja. From 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Jaleo will offer an a la carte menu with New Year’s Eve specials. At 8:30 p.m., Jaleo will offer a second seating, when guests indulge in veritable feast of Spanish tapas priced at $85 per person at Jaleo DC and for $75 per person at Jaleo Bethesda and Jaleo Crystal City. Dishes include Rabo de toro con Pedro Ximenez, Braised boneless oxtail served with oranges, potato puree and PX red wine sauce and Parmentier de Cigalas, Norway lobster and black trumpet mushrooms over potato puree. At midnight, guests of the second seating will be presented with a glass of sparkling cava for toasting, and in keeping with the Spanish New Year’s Eve custom, 12 grapes for good luck. The celebration continues with a DJ and dancing. Jaleo downtown is located at 480 7th Street NW, 202-628-7949; Jaleo Bethesda is at 7271 Woodmont Avenue, 301-913-0003 and Jaleo Crystal City is located at 2250-A Crystal Drive, 703-413-8181. www.jaleo.com.

Luxe Life: Post-holiday sale at Treat!

Deacon loves his bargains, that's for sure. But when an already always on sale boutique marks down their merch even more, he's the first one sniffing around at the door. Unfortunately, we're out of town until the 5th, so that means you get the first paw up on Treat's post holiday sale, where you can take an extra 25% off the lowest marked price on all red line items, and an extra savings of 30% or if you buy two or more sale items. That means up to 80% off names like Milly, Karen Zambos, Siwy denim, Theory, Rebecca Minkoff bags and much, much more.

Mark Your Calendars: Saja trunk show and sale at Ginger

20% off at Imagine, today only

Still searching for that perfect NYE dress? The very one that we're sporting to tonight's wedding is 20% off (along with all other cocktail duds) today at Imagine Boutique.

And no, that's not us in the photo.

In Case You Missed It: Newest Frugal Fashionista

Did you see the latest Frugal Fashionista? ANotSoCapitolIdea blogger Chandler came up with two hot NYE outfits for around $100. See it on Washingtonian.com now.

Luxe Life: Dress to impress on NYE at Urban Chic

Urban Chic, another of our faves, is also offering a great discount - 30% off all dresses, in addition to many items that are already on sale. Use code IMPRESS09 for online shopping at UrbanChicOnline.com or visit the store for a discount. We'd recommend shopping in person - the selection online is sorely limited.

If you see something not already on sale, print this link from StoreAdore.com to score 20% off your entire full-priced purchase.

(Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent dress, normally $253, shown)

Luxe Life: Too Haute to Handle NYE Sale at Luna

Still searching for that perfect NYE frock? We'd suggest making the trip to Luna, one of Bethesda's best under-the-radar boutiques.

'Twas the night before Christmas

'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house, not a creature was stirring (except Deacon, on watch for a mouse).

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.

The family was nestled all snug in their beds, while visions of Louboutins danced in the girls' heads.

These, in particular... aren't they great? (And $995, at Saks)

In Case You Missed It: Vegas, Baby

Who wants to join me for a weekend in Las Vegas?

See the latest StoreAdore post for deets.

In Other News: Holiday Escapades and a Hiatus

Deacon's going on Christmas vacation until January 3, and probably won't be posting much. But when we return, look for a review of a (hopefully) sweet little B&B off the coast, a NYE wedding, and much, much more.

If you're still looking for NYE ideas, check out our restaurant roundup later this week, and also our sales selection and the next edition of Frugal Fashionista, all coming before the end of the week.

In the meantime, Deacon has a holiday house tour video, and a new segment, the "Deacon Cam" coming in January. We'll also be getting a whole new look, so be sure to send suggestions!

Till then, keep yourself entertained and enjoy the rarely seen photos of Deacon's friends:

Deacon Says: Go Deacs!

Deacon would like to take a moment to remind you to cheer responsibly. DC is enjoying a historic event today (its first bowl game) and, despite the fact that a hometown team is participating, the right choice is to cheer for the one and only Wake Forest Demon Deacons.

GO DEACS, BEAT NAVY!

My loyalty, however, stops at the front door. It's icky out, and perfectly acceptable to watch from the comfort of your couch.

In Case You Missed It: A Glimpse at Georgetown Jewel Boutique POPPY

Check out a new peek at POPPY, the latest jewelery boutique to hit Georgetown. We did an exclusive preview for Washingtonian.com.

At left is one of designer Heidi Hess' custom necklaces.

Luxe Life: Red Door Spa Sneak Peek

This is much overdue, but here's the peek at the new Red Door in the Willard Hotel. Headed there for the first real "treatment" soon, so stay tuned for an update!

Sneak Peek: Red Door Spa at the Willard Hotel

Economy, be damned. If you're already shelling out the big bucks to stay in a luxury hotel, you should at least take advantage of the amenities, right?

Unfortunately, most hotel spas are an overpriced bust -- sub-standard service and numerous surcharges generally indicate that the only thing feeling lighter at the end of a trip is your wallet.

Not so with the Willard InterContinental's newly re-vamped spa. Previously the privately-run I Spa, the facility was purchased by Elizabeth Arden's chain of Red Door salons earlier this year and debuted to the public just a few weeks prior.

We got a sneak peak inside the new facilities and were pleasantly surprised by what we found when Annie Gaye, the spa manager, gave us a private tour.

Aesthetic:

Many features of the original I Spa were maintained, as no additional build-outs occurred during renovation. The reception area features black stone floors and velvet-covered red waiting couches, plus a selection of Elizabeth Arden products by names like Prevage, the preferred Red Door brand.

Sleek cases in the front of the spa adequately display products, but the addition of ove

rsized glass cases makes the reception room a bit crowded. A small hotel brochure adorned the table, but no magazines were available for perusal.

Luckily, friendly receptionists, many recently rotated in from the larger Chevy Chase location, quickly escorted guest to changing rooms and service waiting areas.

Décor is minimalist, with small red and zen-like touches throughout the spa, added to give an additional boost to the Red Door's traditional theme.

The waiting area for services (different than reception) features the magazines missing from the front desk area -- guests could peruse current fashion magazines or issues of Where, frequently found at area hotels. Low lighting, comfortable chairs, as well as complimentary hot tea, bottled water and snacks like oat crackers and mixed nuts are available for spa guests.

Changing Areas:

Individual male and female changing areas are similar to many h

igher-end spa and gym rooms. A central bank of electronically code-able lockers is available for product storage, and fluffy robes and towels are available for guests.

Showers and steam rooms are also available, with complimentary toiletries available upon request.

The only downside to the changing area that we could tell is that it is shared with those enjoying use of the hotel gym, also housed within the spa. Luckily, the small gym doesn't appear overly crowded, so it didn't appear to be an issue.

Services/Pricing:

Services are comparable to those at other Red Door spas - with the exception of re-named packages to indicate Washington-related themes: a $177 "Secret Services" pairs an Express facial and massage with a Warm Cream Manicure, while the "Inaugural Indulgence" ($555) features the Ultimate Arden Facial, Signature Stress Melter Ritual, Seasonal Manicure/Pedicure and Spa Lunch.

Most services run on the standard side at this downtown-- no Thai Massage or Ear Candling here -- but facial services do include med-spa add-ons like Glycolic Peels and Dermabrasion if desired.

Prices are also slightly higher than the Chevy Chase outpost -- a signature manicure is $45, versus $42 in Chevy Chase, and the Signature 110-minute Stress Melter Ritual, which includes "a special integration of calming services" like a skin-softening, olive oil body exfoliation, followed by a nurturing aromatic body wrap and scalp massage and aroma-balancing massage is $230 instead of $215.

Guests also receive a complimentary mini-makeup refresher after all spa services -- an added generous touch.

Hair services are not yet available at this location, but spa manager Gaye says she plans to add them in the future.

Treatment / Waiting Rooms:

The treatment rooms truly top-notch. Each features ample space and low, adjustable lighting. Treatment beds are plush and heated.

But the best part about the rooms themselves is the in-suite showers with multiple Vichy-style showerheads. A girl could soak for days in that incredible water pressure!

Manicure and pedicure facilities are small, but adequate, with two tables each for manicure and pedicure offerings. In warm weather, guests can also choose to indulge in outdoor treatments on the spa patio, where spa lunches are served to guests purchasing day and half-day packages.

Couples enjoying one of the spa's many "aquatic" offerings also are offered oversized tubs for soaking. Gaye says those packages are especially popular around the holidays and Valentines Day.

Staff:

Many of the staff from the original I Spa were retained, along with additional therapists brought in from other area Red Door salons, primarily the Chevy Chase location.

While we didn't have the opportunity to try a treatment on this recent visit, previous therapists have been both experienced and exceptionally nice.

Overall Experience:

Overall, the new Red Door seems to be on par with what fans of an Elizabeth Arden spa have come to expect, albeit in a slightly smaller setting.

Gaye explains that the revamp was about both selling the known Elizabeth Arden brand and making the spa more attractive to locals and hotel guests alike, but also facilitating an ease of use - appointments can now be booked online, and gift cards are transferrable to a variety of locations.

I would consider popping in for a late afternoon facial or massage (perhaps combined with the hotel's fantastical-looking tea presentation?), and certainly would find interest in booking a treatment during a weekend stay.

Location Info: Red Door Spas at the Willard InterContinental: 1401 Pennsylvania Ave., Downtown, 202-942-270; www.reddoorspas.com.

Luxe Life: Gilt Groupe

I've had a lot of requests for recessionista-appropriate style tips in the past week, and wanted to share with readers one of my fave sites, Gilt Groupe. It's an invite-only section of some of the best designer brands' exclusive sales. Each week, you're as likely to find D&G as you are to get a David Yurman ... for 50% or more off.

Want to join? Here's an exclusive invite code for Deacon Does DC readers. Click here to join!

Deacon Says: What to do this weekend

Check out the latest Weekend Guide, via our post in DailyCandy.

We've been busy wrapping, playing, and otherwise getting our paws dirty, but took a few minutes to bring you the best of DC's weekend entertainment.

In Other News: Congratulations Johanna!

Congratulations to DC's own Johanna Cox, former ASeriousJobIsNoExcuse blogger and now junior editor at Elle magazine.

We've loved watching you on Stylista, and know you'll go on to do great things.

Plus, you're joining one of our own bosses, the one and only Auntie E, of the Ask E. Jean column!

Click to read our profile of Johanna in the October issue of DC Magazine.

You're Invited: Cocktails for a Clause

Guess what? It's another HOLIDAY PARTY!

I swear, let's pick three, make them really great, and then say NO MORE.

But since GlamazonDiaries is a friend and she sent this ... here you go.

In Case You Missed It: All I want for Christmas is a Vivabox

My new post on StoreAdore.com, about this cool gift-card-cum-real-gift.

Say Yum: Tangysweet & Red Velvet opening this week!

Deacon's got a special scoop that the newest location of Tangysweet AND DC's latest addition to the Cupcake scene, Red Velvet, are going to open on or before Thursday!

For TangySweet's second space (the first is in Dupont on P Street), they've hired Pastry Chef David Guas (formerly of PassionFood Hospitalty) to bring in a sweet sensation for a two-in-one punch.

Metrocurean reports that the yogurt half will be bigger, but plenty of seating will be availalble for both.

What an exciting endeavor. We can't wait to try Guas' work, which has been recognized by magazines like Bon Appetit, Food & Wine, and Washingtonian as top-notch.

How's THAT for your afternoon sugar fix?? It's almost enough to make us wish we worked downtown again!

Location: 7th & E, NW, 202.347.7985 (Former Juan Valdez Coffee Space)

In Other News: Holiday "cheer" to make you smile

Luxe Life: A Rx for 50% off

Here's a deal for all of Deacon's male readers out there, from one of our top boutiques, Imagine:

Frugal Fashionista: Holiday Party Chic for Under $50

Welcome to my latest Washingtonian.com series, the Frugal Fashionista.

Every other week, we’ll ask a local stylista to complete a task—some seasonal and some just for fun—on a budget. Think of it as a Washington-focused “The Look for Less,” the Style Network TV show that creates a particular look on a budget.

For our inaugural issue, we’ve asked resident DC blogger Makeda Saggau-Sackey of the Glamazon Diaries to come up with a holiday party outfit for under $50.

Click to read this week's series.

If you're interested in participating yourself or have a frugal fashion idea, email deacondoesdc@gmail.com - all types are welcome!

Spotted: JOHN Walsh (corrected version)

You know, the guy from America's Most Wanted? Well John Wash was spotted by a Deacon spy at Mie n Yu on Sunday night ... and we have the exclusive scoop:

"He came in with a group of 7 friends, 8 people total, to dine just shy of 11 PM. They had a combination of items but said that the Flounder was the best he'd ever had. They took a tour of the restaurant and left around 2 AM."

Late night ... wonder if he was taking a night off from crime fighting.

Please keep sending tips our way ... deacondoesdc@gmail.com!

Luxe Life: Olavie On Sale

Maybe you've heard us express our love of all things Olavie ... and maybe you haven't. But we're excited to tell you now.

This amazing line of body and skincare products is made with antioxidants from grapes ... the same kind to make wine. Their Chardonnay line is used in high-end spas across the country, and the products are twice as nice when used in your home shower.

My roommate always asks if I'm having a mimosa in the shower - the heady smell is just like champagne, with the exception of the nasty hangover. Afterwards, the smell is light, and just a bit sweet ... perfect for a summer night when perfume is too overpowering.

This sounds like a commercial, but it's really not - I just love this stuff. Unfortunately, it's a bit pricey.

So stock up now, when everything is 20% OFF FOR TWO DAYS ONLY!

Seriously ... you gotta try this stuff.

Deacon Says: A holiday party for me! (At Bloomies, no less)

It's a "Haute holiday for the hounds" party today at Bloomies Chevy Chase, and you're invited!

Deets: Where: the dress department
When: December 14, 2 p.m - 5 p.m.
What: Pet-friendly holiday fun, with pampering, gourmet treats (from Barkley Square Bakery and Hello Cupcake), and even holiday photos with Santa and Frosty the Snowman
Why: Proceeds benefit homeless animals in the care of the Washington Humane Society


Deacon dedicates this post to his (sadly deceased) sister Elizabeth, our family's first rescue Shepherd.

In Case You Missed It: Robin Givhan on Politics, Power, and Pretty

To those of you who didn't have the pleasure of listening to the one and only Robin Givhan (Pulitzer Prize winning Washington Post fashion columnist) last night at the Corcoran, click to read my recap in The Washingtonian today.

(Image courtesy of The Washington Post).

In Case You Missed It: Santa Soiree, a success!

Did you see the post in Washingtonian? The recap is here.

Here's my more personal take, as well:

Last night's Santa Soiree at City Tavern Club was a great success - four levels of fabulously dressed ladies and gents, plus Vineyard Vines sponsored merchandise -- free holiday ties for the men, koozies and whale hats galore.

A few observations:

• Four levels means you can't find anyone.
• Nobody could see your shoes. Sadly, my Loubs went unnoticed.
• Metallics and sequins were the dress code du jour. Feathers didn't make so much of an appearance, except in a few girl's hair. Sadly, they ended up in the "I'm channeling Blair Waldorf and didn't quite make it there" category rather than looking cute.
• Most men wore your standard cumberbund-bow tie set, and looked great, albeit a bit like penguins. Those that wore holiday ties stood out - in a good way. Those that chose plaid pants or otherwise gaudy vests looked like idiots. Exception: the guy in the glasses and pink (Lily Pulitzer?) tuxedo shirt. You, my friend, looked amazing.
  

More photos to come ... but here are a few to get you started:

You're Invited: ChrisKla design preview tonighat at KStreet Lounge

Who isn't a fan of custom-made baubles? If you're not done with holiday shopping, pop to K Street Lounge tonight for a sneak peek at our good friend and designer Christina for an exclusive preview of her new collection, ChrisKla. Plus, proceeds help fight Lou Gerhig's disease, so it's practically tax-deductible.

Deets below ... we'll probably see you there after hitting up the Robin Givhan lecture at the Corcoran.

You're Invited: Tee Party at Tiffany's

If one of our favorite bloggers and resident girls-about-town Hoogrrl! is championing an event, then we're all over it. Especially if said event is walkable from our apartment.

So check it out:

Mark Your Calendars: Half off at Ginger this Friday

Guess where Deacon will be on Friday? Shopping at Bethesda Row's chicest eco-friendly boutique, natch. It's half off!

Luxe Life: Queen Bee Trunk show and my holiday wish list

Set aside an hour this weekend for a visit to the hive of Queen Bee designer Allison Brooks. Her home opens for a two-day only trunk showing and lavish spread of all the goodies the queen has to offer.

There are local jewelery designers galore, but Deacon really does adore the Queen's designs - we even wore what we dub our "Ice Bitch" (shown at left) necklace to our birthday party in September. It's the perfect excuse to snag a chic pair of earrings for your stylish girlfriend or pick up that one-of-a-kind holiday party accessory.

Plus, all jewelry and accessories will be offered at wholesale prices up to 50% off web and retail - earrings start at $15, bracelets from $18, necklaces from $40 and rings from $18. Further discounts and/or gifts will be given with every purchase. Champagne and delicious hors doeurves will be served.

Accessories including handbags, holiday surprises, and gorgeous shawls will be on sale for this exclusive event. The famous Queen Bee CLEARANCE ROOM with samples that have never been seen before will be open and full of designs from past seasons - prices start under $5!

If you're looking at the pictures and thinking "I've seen this somewhere before..." it's because her designs are showcased at boutiques like Tickled Pink, Hysteria, Sugar and Dalton Brody. You may have read about designer Allison Brooks in Lucky Magazine or seen when she was selected as the Top Jewelry Designer in Washington by The Washingtonian Magazine. Vogue's Andre Leon Talley calls Allison - The Queen of Jewels and Project Runway's host Tim Gunn is also a fan!

Saturday December 13th 10AM-5PM and Sunday December 14th from 12PM - 5PM at The Queen Bee's Hive
1410 Cool Spring Drive Alexandria, VA 22308

You're Invited: Tatiana Boncampagni book party at Urban Chic

Meet new haute novelist/socialite Tatiana Boncpagni during her exclusive book signing at Urban Chic Bethesda on Friday, December 12.

She's the author of Gilding Lily, a touching (and at times biting) story of Manhattan's elite ... kind of sounds like Gossip Girl for the adult set, come to think of it.

We'll be there, sipping champers and trying to pick up pointers for our first novel ... whenever we get around to writing it.

Urban Chic:
7126 Bethesda Lane, Bethesda, Maryland, 301.657.0290, www.urbanchiconline.com, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Deacon Says: It's all in a name

Deacon here, giving you the weekly dish ... and for once, this doesn't have to do with DC (see the "and beyond" part of the blog description).

I'm sure there are a few of you out there wondering how I got my name ... and no, it's not because my mom is some sort of religious zealot.

I'm black and gold, the colors of McLean's one and only alma mater, Wake Forest University. And that means we're super excited to announce the following news.













The Demon Deacons are coming to DC in the first-ever Eagle Bowl next weekend! They're playing our hometown (Annapolis, natch) team, Navy.

So get your tickets now, and be sure to shoot deacondoesdc@gmail.com an e-mail if you're attending the game ... we'd be excited to give you a good sniff in person!

In Case You Missed It: Fashion Forward at Shadow Room

Rather overdue, but without further ado, here's the recap of Fashion Forward at Shadow Room, via my post in Washingtonian.

If you're looking for the full recap, visit Chandler over at A Not So Capitol Idea.

Mark Your Calendars: Designer Sample Sale

The lovely ladies of SIN PR are hosting a sample sale this weekend ... even more deals for your dollars!

Luxe Life: Let them (bathe in) Champagne

Okay, so we remember that Marie Antoinette got in trouble for saying something similar, so let's hope you don't guillotine us.

It's the holiday season and let's face it, the economy has us all a (lot) down in the dumps. Never mind that our beloved Neimans and Saks look like war torn nations (or at least a bad Macys) on Saturday afternoons, or that the stock market shows drastically crashing prices on our fave options (seriously, Louis Vuitton slashed prices in Japan ... even the big guns are suffering).

The upside to this mess is that there are deals galore - 40 to 70% off at our favorite stores (which Deacon has kindly outlined for you as best he can).

Still, a gal (or guy, if you swing that way) needs more than just material goods to soothe this pain.

Which is why when the going gets tough ... the tough go to the spa.

One of our absolute favorite retreats, the Ritz Carlton in Tysons Corner, has seriously slashed prices on some of their best treatments, including our ultimate go-to, the Champagne Indulgence package.

Ever since we tried it last February, we've been dreaming of a return engagement. Even though regular purchases of the Olavie products to use at home are fab, but just not the same.

Honestly, we're talking almost 50 percent off here, people.

So hie thy tired and Louboutin weary feet to the comforting hands of the Ritz, where you'll be able to book the following deals through Holiday '08.

Deets below, natch.

Just don't take the last appointment, or we'll have to kill you.

Holiday Splendor

Therapeutic Massage 50 Minutes

Petite Facial 25 Minutes

Spa Manicure 25 Minutes

Spa Pedicure 50 Minutes

$260.00

Holiday Spa-tacular

Rose Body Wrap 60 Minutes

European Facial 50 Minutes

Deluxe Manicure 25 Minutes

Deluxe Pedicure 50 Minutes

$395.00

Holiday Cheer

Champagne Indulgence Body Treatment 90 Minutes

Champagne Indulgence Facial 50 Minutes

Champagne Indulgence Manicure 50 Minutes

Champagne Indulgence Pedicure 50 Minutes

Complimentary Glass of Champagne

$560.00

*Complimentary use of Sauna, Steam Room, Indoor Pool and Whirlpool. Gratuities are not included in the price of the package.

Gift Certificates are available at the Spa Front Desk and Lifestyle Boutique. Call 703-744-3924 for reservations.

Say Yum: Hot Cocktail (recipes) for Cold Days

Deacon thought his paws might freeze off during yesterday's sub-freezing temps. Luckily, these cold weather cocktails are the perfect antidote to frostbite. (Well, that, and the fact that he's wearing a fur coat!)

Thanks to the Park Hyatt Washington for these delish drinks!

(And yes, if you want to save yourself the effort of trekking to the store, you can get these for $15 each in the lounge...)

Riesling Rosemary Mulled Wine
2 bottles Riesling white wine
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
3 whole cloves
2 tbsp rosemary
1/2 vanilla bean
1/4 cup honey
2 lemons, sliced

Simmer (but not boil) the water, sugar, rosemary, and honey for 10 minutes. Add in the wine. Peel the lemons and add in the peels. Allow to steep without boiling. Strain and serve warm.

Hot Mulled Cider
2 qts apple cider
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 tbsp sugar
2 tsp whole cloves
3 cinnamon sticks
1 tsp nutmeg
2 oranges, sliced
2 lemons, sliced
1 cup Captain Morgan's spiced rum (optional)

Mix all ingredients and bring just to a boil. Simmer about 10 minutes. Allow ingredients to macerate for an hour or more. Strain and serve reheated. May be garnished with fresh orange or lemon slice, or a cinnamon stick in each mug.

Luxe Life: Hollywould No More - but a sweet sale!

This just in from our fab friend over at The Glamazon Diaries:

Hollywould is going out of business. That's right, another one bites the dust. Bad for them, good for our closets. I love Hollywould shoes and dresses and know many of you do too. So go ahead and snag a couple, just make sure don't get the same dresses. We don't want to end up looking like twins. EVERYTHING IS $79. AGAIN EVERYTHING IS $79.

Merry Christmas. If you happen to be in NYC, the Hollywould stores are selling everything for $49. Unfair but hey, still a good deal.

You know you love me.

xoxo

Glamour Girl

In Case You Missed It: Tucker Blair Designs Spotlight

Check the latest from StoreAdore.com - a spotlight on local designer Taylor Llewelyn of Tucker Blair designs. We love the super preppy needlepoint headbands, belts, and soon-to-come flip flops, perfect for that hard-to-gift prepster who already owns closets full of Vineyard Vines and Brooks Brothers merch.

Check it, here.

Frugal Fashionista: Are you up to the challenge?

Deacon is starting a new series for Washingtonian.com called The Frugal Fashionista, modeled after The Frugal Foodie series already on the site.

Every other week (for now), we'll ask stylish Washingtonians to complete a given task on a budget - holiday party wear for under $50, an office-worthy combo for $75, or an inaugural ball gown for under $200.

There's just one little catch: we need your help to come up with some of the initial scenarios and task masters and mistresses.

If you're interesting in submitting an idea or want to be challenged, shoot us an e-mail to DeaconDoesDC@gmail.com. We promise, no idea is too small, no gal or guy too new to try this task.

As we type, Makeda of The Glamazon Diaries is hard at work on her first task ... and we can't wait to see the results!

Love,
Deacon & McLean

Mark Your Calendars: Fashion Installation at Civillian Art Projects by Artistic Aya

In Case You Missed It: Closet Caucus interview

Don't miss today's interview with one of my favorite Twitteristas, Closet Caucus.

Link via my article in Washingtonian.

You're Invited: Holiday Champagne and Cupcake Soiree at Fresh!

One of Deacon's favorite boutiques is a tiny shop located next to Georgetown Cupcake on Prospect Street. Fresh always has a stellar selection of cheap and chic day and evening wear, plus fun accessories.

The store selection rotates weekly, so there's always something new to peruse.

If you're in need of a holiday party dress or knockout accessory, be sure to stop by their holiday Champagne and Cupcakes bash THIS SUNDAY, December 7th. Enjoy mimosas (it's a day long bash, natch) and sweet treats.

Send deacondoesdc@gmail.com your RSVP's (include your friends too!) and we'll make sure you're on the special guest list - free gifts are involved!

Deacon Says: Happy Repeal Day! (Now where's my martini?)

In honor of the 75th Anniversary of Repeal Day, Deacon has prepared a special list of events and places to visit in and around DC. After all, it's practically a mandate that today require a three-martini lunch (or dinner, or breakfast!)

Here's our unofficial listing of the best places in DC to celebrate:

• Snag a last-minute ticket to the Repeal Day celebration at City Tavern Club
  
• If you can't make the party, make plans to follow the events of the DC Craft Bartenders Guild
  
• Use seasonal ingreds to create your own holiday drink recipes - tonight's the perfect night to "test" your party punches!
• Slip into a modern day speakeasy, like PX or the newly-opened Gibson
• Visit the newly-opened Zola Wine & Kitchen on your lunch break.
• Make a plan for happy hour!
  

We're personally going to be found at Cafe Mozart and then headed to Oya to celebrate our last official day of (day job) work!