Mark Your Calendars: We're getting a new Neimans!

Good news for Neiman Marcus fanatics - the DC area is finally getting a Last Call sale outlet. We've got an overabundance of Saks Off Fifth stores (Arundel Mills, Potomac Mills, and Leesburg Corner Premium Outles) and have been craving the better merch available at Last Call.

It's opening March 6th at the Potomac Mills Mall, which already has a Nordstrom Rack and Saks Off Fifth. This marks the second Last Call in the area - the original entered Arundel Mills Mall a few years ago.

If hisory foreshadows any repetition, the merch at the Neimans outlet will far surpass the stuff at Saks, particularly in the shoe and jewelry selections.

Unfortunately, in this economy, the bargains may not appear as fabulous as they normally would - stuff appears to be going on sale at the regular stores faster than you can whip out a charge card.

So follow Deacon's directives and be sure to shop selectively - bargain fever is not a good look.

xoxo,
Deacon

Deacon's Site of the Day: Puppy Love

Psst, want to know a secret?

Whenever we're feeling blue, we turn on the puppy cam or head to YouTube for some animal friendly videos.

But today, we're cheering up with a little interior screen clean from this cute pup. Enjoy!

In Case You Missed It: Deacon in The Fashion List

Our article in the in-the-know New York fashion guide, The Fashion List, has finally appeared! We covered ten of the hottest spots to shop for those in town during the inauguration.

Check it out, here.

In Case You Missed It: Fashion Takes Flight at L2

Deacon hit up Fashion Takes Flight, the first annual fashion fundraiser for Luke's Wings that took place last night at L2. Don't miss the recap today on Washingtonian.com - it was great to see an event where DC lived up to its soon-to-be style center status!

Image courtesy of Washingtonian.com - Kate Marie Grinold, current Miss DC, is wearing Reiss - we love this dress! Updated 3/2

Deacon's Site of the Day: Christian Louboutin

Deacon is mixing things up with a few new features we're testing out in the next few weeks - including new travel picks (Deacon's Destinations) and a soon-to-debut event calendar.

Today, we bring you the first of his "Site of the Day" picks, which aims to be a fun daily diversion and a quick look at some of the picks, people and places Deacon has sniffed out in his research. Many will be related to Deacon's adventures in the District, while others will focus on his other passions of fashion, food, and fun.

First up is the newly-relaunched Christian Louboutin site. Deacon's been a longtime fan of of these red-soled beauties (what can we say, he has a gay dog's instincts when it comes to footwear), but this site is now truly over-the-top in a truly fab Moulin Rouge-esque way.

And, in especially good timing, Louboutin's exclusive "Marie Antoinette" inspired collection, also available for show on the site, debuts in the New York boutique today. At $6,000+ a pair, these babies should stay firmly on the shelf, but they make for great lunchtime browsing from the safe haven of your computer.

If you would like to be considered for "site of the day" submission, shoot him an e-mail to deacondoesdc@gmail.com. Deacon responds to all fan mail!

You're Invited: Rochelle Behrens Trunk Show TONIGHT at Periwinkle

Who doesn't love DC native Rochelle Behrens' line? She was a strong favorite last night at Fashion Takes Flight, a Luke's Wings benefit at Georgetown bar L2, and has even garnered national press in recent months.

Check out the full spring line tonight at Alexandria shop Periwinkle, one of Deacon's longtime favorites for inventive picks from top designers.

Here are the full details:

In Case You Missed It: Eventide Review in JulilB

Let the good tides roll with our take on Eventide, Clarendon's latest dining destination. (via our writeup on JuliB.com)

We went for brunch on Sunday and totally recommend the space, but are most excited for the rooftop patio, which promises to be the perfect spot for a spring cocktail. The menu is a bit strange, and we're hearing tells of the typical just-opened kinks, but given the location and the decor, we're sure it's going to be a popular spot.

Make your rezz today and see what they hype is all about!

In Case You Missed It: Frugal Fashionista Goes Rock Band Chic

In this week's Frugal Fashionista, we asked lead singer of DC rock band The Frustrations to spruce up her signature look - and she didn't disappoint.

See what Kristen Soltis picked out via our latest on Washingtonian.com.

Deacon Says: Vote for me in the MVP Pet Photo Contest

Hi! Deacon here, and we've got very exciting news - we're up for an award! Unfortunately, it's not for our blogging, but rather for our stunning good looks! We're nominated in the Bissell MVP Photo contest, and stand to win our photo on Bissell pet hair removal products in the next year!

It's quick and easy to vote for me - just click here. And please, pass this on to your friends. After all, we never thought we could win a beauty contest!

xoxo,
Deacon

Deacon Says: Sniffing though our Inbox

Deacon's on a mission to sniff out the very best events and in fashion, food and fun in the District, and that means he's on an awful lot of email lists.

Normally, Deacon would like to provide you with news before it's released to the public, and we generally do. But one of our favorite weekly e-mail notices is from lululemon athletica, and we've noticed that this athletic wear shop is bending over backwards - literally - to attract new customers to the store. Especially in the slumping economy, it's a welcome change to see so many fun (and free) events going on each week, especially those geared towards health and wellness.

So take a gander at what's happening Friday in Georgetown, but know that there's probably a location your neighborhood too.
Friday, February 27th @ 7 p.m. lululemon athletica georgetown

lululemon athletica Georgetown and Georgetown Cupcake team up for this fabulous event! We invite all women of Georgetown and brides-to-be to the store for a "Cupcake Soiree" featuring delectable treats, a bit of bubbly, and a complimentary dance lesson. One lucky lady will "catch the bouquet" by winning an Adele Wechsler gown for her wedding. Also, join us on Saturday morning, at 11:30 for a YogaWorks flow class, taught by 500 hr certified YogaWorks instructor, Brandice Rogers. The class is for mixed levels.

And we promise - nobody paid us to write this... we really do just like the store. Now back to sniffing out new things ... after a cup of coffee - last night's dinner at newcomer Inox really wore us out!

Say Yum: Congrats to DC's own David Guas, Appearing on the Today Show tomorrow

Washingtonians made it big - or at least to New York, because tomorrow, Pastry Chef David Guas (of PassionFood hospitality) is dishing up a New Orleans favorite, beignets, on the fourth hour of The Today Show tomorrow.

So if you're working at home like Deacon, be sure to tune in and watch this famed DC chef demonstrate Baby Buttermilk Beignets and Café au Lait Crème Brûlée.

If you're more into sampling than seeing, check out Guas-inspired dishes at restaurants like Acadiana, Ceiba, DC Coast, TenPenh, PassionFish, and Red Velvet.

This marks his tenth appearance on The Today Show.

Image courtesy of the District Domestic.

In Case You Missed It: Oscar Night DC at Hard Rock Cafe

Did you miss all the action at DC's official Oscar Gala last night? We were there, reporting for BizBash and Washingtonian.com. You'll find the newsy bits up later on BizBash, but our full-on fashion critique (and yes, it was a critique) is up on Washingtonian.com.

We hate to disparage charity events, but the fashion at this event was decidedly more miss than hit. Congrats, however, to the usual well-dressed attendees, including co-host Pamela Sorensen of Pamela's Punch and Kate Michael of K Street Kate, both of whom also covered the event on their respective blogs.

And yes, by popular demand, you'll actually see the face behind the blog (the less fuzzy one, that is) in photos below. The suit is St. John Couture - we went for big bling rather than a big gown.

(Photos, from top: Stephanie Flax and Tommy McFly of 107.3, yours truly, Pamela Sorensen with co-host Dave Mara, Heather Guay and Tara De Nicholas with a dashing gentleman whose name I am currently forgetting and Lindley Thornburg of Heather Freeman PR and friends. )

Currently Coveting: Bianna Ankle-Strap Sandal

It's rare that we covet items at this low of a price point, but Steve Madden's new ankle-strap shell sandal just might make our most-wanted list for spring/summer.

They're even on sale for $103. Our only worry is that those shells will be deathly uncomfortable in the heat, but with free overnight shipping, we can at least try them on with no repercussions!

Available on Endless.com.

Mark Your Calendars: Spring 2009 Shoe Trunk Show at Cusp

Want to know what's tempting your tootsies this spring? Check the G-town location of CUSP on Saturday the 28th for an exclusive preview of spring 2009 shoe collections of Juicy Couture, daniblack, Kate Spade and DVF!

We've been told that there's a fab gift with any purchase, so it's all the more reason to hold your plastic for another week ....

DVF T-Strap Wedge, $265

WHEN: Saturday, February 28 from 1p - 4p

WHERE: CUSP Georgetown
3030 M Street NW
Washington, DC 20007
202.625.0893

Mark Your Calendars: Annapolis Warehouse Sale

Indulge in the guilt-free event of the season - a free warehouse sale in charming Annapolis! We're talking up to 75 percent of merch from names like Shoshanna, Pedro Garcia, Valentino RED, Seven for All Mankind and more.

Join Deacon on Facebook for more deets.

March 1
12-5 PM (VIP hour from 12-1 is $10, benefitting Modest Needs)
Loews Annapolis Hotel; 126 West Street, Annapolis.

Vendors include: Bailey's Maryland Avenue, Diva, Horse Boutique, Novelties, Saucy Shoes, Star Monograms, Form, Hobo International, Lilac Bijoux, Fornash Designs, Madeleine, Dakota Martin, Madison Boutique and Laura Bevilacqua.

Mark Your Calendars: Petite (and Large) Feet Sale at Treat, Simply Soles and the Shoe Hive

It's events like this that make us sad that we don't have exceptionally petite or large feet! For one weekend only, take up to 80 percent off footwear from luxe retailers like Treat, Simply Soles, and The Shoe Hive in an exclusive shoe sale event.

Deets below:

WHAT:
"The Long and the Short of it: a Special Shoe Sale for Petite Feet (sizes 5-7) and Larger Soles (sizes 10-11)", sponsored by The Shoe Hive, SimplySoles and Treat.

WHERE:
Shop in person in Old Town Alexandria:
Petite Feet proceed to Treat, at 114 South Royal Street, while Larger Soles may find steals directly across the road at The Shoe Hive, 115 South Royal Street, Alexandria, VA.

Shop online:
Customers may also shop certain styles online by logging on to SimplySoles' web site: www.simplysoles.com

WHEN:
One Weekend Only:
Friday + Saturday, February 27 + 28: 11AM - 7PM
Sunday, March 1, 12PM - 6PM

Luxe Life: Tax-Free Month At Urban Chic

Every little penny counts ...

In Other News: Say Goodbye to Two of Maryland Avenue's Favorite Shops

This week, Deacon got the sad news that two of his favorite shops along Annapolis' Maryland Avenue are closing their doors for good. It's always terrible to see the economy affecting local businesses, particularly ones we've been fans of for near a decade or more.

Earlier this week, Emily at Sitting Pretty informed that she'd be putting up the closing signs at Sitting Pretty, a chic boutique selling names like Nanette Lepore, Trina Turk, and White + Warren. We had just bought a great pair of earrings here for Christmas, so this is a true blow to the Annapolis shopping scene. We haven't had the chance to chat directly with Emily yet, but suspect that the slower foot traffic on Maryland Ave may have contributed to the decline in customers - it certainly wasn't a decline in quality. We suspect that big sales will be in progress next weekend at the Annapolis Warehouse Sale.

Next to go is the town's long-standing Details of Design. We have many childhood memories of our mother perusing this longtime fave. Thankfully, the news isn't so dire. After nearly two decades of being in business, they've decided to move online, and will now sell from www.detailsofdesign.biz.

We wish Gina Fitzsimmons and Emily Giebel the very best in their next andventures. You will be missed.

xoxo,
McLean

Mark Your Calendars: Spring 2009 Dolce Vita (Shoes) Trunk Show at CUSP Tysons Corner

We bought a pair of Dolce Vita's chic sandals last year (with butterflies on the toe!) and wore them right into the ground - literally ... we had them re-soled after the season ended. Since then, this former Nordstrom buyer and Parsons grad has been turning out more and more covetable footwear at affordable prices, including partnerships with big name brands like Steve Madden.

(At left, the Aires sandal is $125)

We're tickled to see what he's got in store for the spring line, showcased in its entirety at CUSP Tysons Corner on Friday, February 27 from 1-4 PM. There's a free gift with purchase too .. all the more incentive to scoot your bootay over to McLean.



WHERE: CUSP Tyson's Corner
1961 Chain Bridge Road
McLean, VA 22102
703.288.1940

Luxe Life: Simply Soles Soars for Spring

We got a sneak peek at SimplySoles spring catalog yesterday, and someone's gotta give Kassie some credit - she knows great shoes!

One of our favorites is this ruffled take on a gladiator sandal from Chie Mihara. At $365, it's a bit pricey, but you can take 10 percent off the price by donating a pair of gently used shoes with purchase - they'll go to Suited For Change, a local charity.

Luxe Life: Loving JulliB

Lately, we've been huge fans of JuliB.com, the weekly e-publication owned by DC: Modern Luxury.

Today's edition is technically the sponsored one - but it's actually got three things on it we'd wholeheartedly sponsor.

So if you haven't already - sign up, for free, on JuliB.com. Tell 'em Deacon sent you.

Luxe Life: Fashion and Beauty Picks, February

We've been quiet on the blog recently, but only because we've been busy digging up the dirt on the latest events 'round town and fashion news for our fave sites like Washingtonian.com, JuliB, Daily Candy and Store Adore.

Here's one of those projects, via JuliB.com

Say Yum: Total 'Inox'ication

What's the scoop on Tysons Corner's latest restuarant, Inox? We've got deets, via today's writeup (courtesy of yours truly) in JuliB.com.

washington, D.C. | total inoxication.

sometimes too much of a good thing can be great. taste the evidence at the recently opened inox.

with a total of six toques in the house, exec chef and owners jon mathieson and jonathan krinn (both from 2941) promise gourmet overload at this tysons corner resto. tasting menus feature seasonal ingreds, and the lounge area has its own array of small bites. while you're there, sip some 650 wines chosen by master sommelier john wabeck, who most recently worked as exec chef at new heights in DC. curious about what's going on in the kitchen? you're sure to see all the drama; design firm CMS (who did NYC's nobu and miami's W hotel) raised the open kitchen onto a platform to give it an iron chef feel. and if watching mathieson and krinn play off each other's strengths for inspiration wasn't enough, krinn's father, malvin, even got in on the game, developing a signature bread program. together with sous chefs scott muns (NY's per se), nick palermo (l'hotel de ville in switzerland) and culinary creator rissa pagsibian, it's a force to be reckoned with. don't believe us? sink into one of the banquettes and sample the escargot tortellini or pan-seared blue nose bass.

it's guaranteed to leave you totally inoxicated. inox. 1800 tysons boulevard. near galleria. mclean. 703.790.INOX. www.inoxrestaurant.com

In Case You Missed It: Even More Spectacular Spa Deals

Deacon's been a busy boy, dredging up all sorts of great spa experiences for DDC readers. Check out our latest batch of online exclusives, via Washingtonian.com. Don't forget that even more deals are coming in March!

You're Invited: Biodynamic Wine Dinner at Restaurant Eve

You Should Be Leaving NOW For Bethesda Row

Here are even more deets on today's sample sale, starting in oh, 20 minutes.

Say Yum: Eventide is OPEN

After many months of waiting, Clarendon residents can finally get a peek at the inside of Eventide, a new restaurant on Wilson Boulevard near prime sports like Liberty Tavern, Spider Kelleys, and yes, even Clarendon Ballroom.

The restaurant, run by Miles Vaden, who has worked under the likes of Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Todd Gray and Anthony Chittum, opened to a select crowd last night for dinner, and will continue taking limited reservations in its first few weeks.

We've only had a chance to peer through the windows, but expect dark woods, red velvet curtains, and floor-to-ceiling windows to brighten up what promises to be a cozy and intimate dining space.

Here's a peek at what's on the menu - we promise a full report once we've had the chance to sample the dishes!

• Dinner
• Drink
• Dessert
  

Luxe Life: Lorien Hotel and Spa Opens

What dreams may come

As Cinderella once said, ‘a dream is a wish your heart makes, when you’re fast asleep.’ Unlike C. in her attic room, we find it nigh impossible to slumber serenely ‘lest we’re in a decidedly cushy sleep sitch. So put down Ambien and pull out your Amex, ‘cause it’s time to book a rezzie at soon-to-open Lorien Hotel & Spa. Masterminded by none other than modern architect marvel Vicente Wolf, this cool-as-a-cucumber boutique hotel combines luxe amenities (aromatherapy on delivery, three Robert Weidmaier restos, and a spa that uses only paraben-free products) with parent company Kimpton’s signature irreverence.

Classic American touches like copper roofs and warm brick walls are accented by mod furniture and crisp robin’s egg blue, grey and white décor.

Book a Terrace or Spa suite and indulge in 700+ square feet, claw foot tubs and rain showers. Want quirky extras or gala-worth gestures? No prob. From telescopes and sleeping bags for a night under the stars to private dance lessons or wine tastings for 30, your “Dream Phone,” or private concierge, is just a call away. Unwind with a crystal rock massage at the in-house spa, or go gourmand at BRABO, a contemporary twist on Belgian cusine that evokes Weidmaier’s other culinary creation, Brasserie Beck.

Soon, you’ll be begging for a return to sweet slumber … or a second stay at Lorien. Thankfully, you won’t need a magical glass slipper to stay there.

Lorien Hotel & Spa. 1600 King Street, Old Town, 703.894.3434; www.lorienhotelandspa.com.

Psst: Book between now and March 31 to get 20 percent off the best available rate, guaranteed room upgrade, $20 credit per night, and an in-room welcome amenity from Chef Wiedmaier. Use code EMM when booking online at www.lorienhotelandspa.com or call 877.856.7436 to reserve via phone.

Mark Your Calendars: Artini

Artini tickets are now on sale! If you're interested in a VIP pass (which includes gratis admission to an exclusive after party at Urbana, where former President Clinton and the Mrs. dined last night) ... you'd better buy soon - they're almost sold out!


Throughout the month of March, 12 of the city’s best mixologists will compete to create the most artistic martini, inspired by the work of students attending the Corcoran College of Art + Design. Visit the participating restaurants, sample the “artinis”, and vote online for your favorite at www.washingtoncitypaper.com/artini.

Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 7 p.m. during the month of March, one featured venue will offer a 20% discount on their “artini” to all attending sippers.

Please visit www.corcoran.org/artini for dates and locations.


**Celebrate**

Saturday, March 28, 8 p.m.–Midnight
At the Corcoran Gallery of Art

The 1869 Society invites you to attend the culminating event where you may sample all of the “artinis,” enjoy a cocktail buffet, dance to music provided by DJ Heather Femia, participate in our ARTINI Raffle, and tour the exhibition Maya Lin: Systematic Landscapes. Your votes for the winning “artini” will be revealed during the event.

1869 Society Members $80 • Corcoran Members $90 • Non-Members $100 • VIP $125
VIP Admission Includes five raffle tickets and an invitation to the VIP post-reception at Urbana Restaurant and Wine Bar.

All proceeds will support the Corcoran College of Art + Design’s scholarship fund.

Kindly RSVP by Thursday, March 18. visit www.corcoran.org/artini or call (202) 639-1753 to register. Tickets will not be sold at the door. No walk-ins or refunds permitted. Tickets are non-transferable after March 18.


**Win**

The luxury items available in the ARTINI Raffle are sure to be coveted by all! Tickets are available for purchase online and at the door. Winners will be announced at the ARTINI Party.

ARTINI Raffle tickets are $5 for 1, $15 for 5, or $25 for 10. To purchase, click here.

In Case You Missed It: Spring's Statement Shoe

Deacon admits that he has homosexual tendencies when it comes to shoes. He's WAY more into them than any male has a right to be, and blames it on the fact that he grew up in a house full of women. His dad is embarrassed, as he thinks men should like things like golf and boats.

Still, nobody's going to hold our little pup down.

He's posted yet another article about footwear, this time on StoreAdore.com. Check it out!

Mark Your Calendars: District Sample Sale Tickets Available TOMORROW

Do. Not. Miss. This. Sale. We repeat: Do Not Miss This Sale.

Shell out for the VIP or Benefactress Level Tickets. You will not be disappointed - all the good merch is scooped up in the first hour, and the goodie bags alone are worth the price of admittance.

See you there!

xoxo, Deacon

In Case You Missed It: DC Bellwether Shows Her Shoe Sensibility

Sky-high shoes are in for spring, but that doesn't mean that you need to pay sky-high prices to stay in style.

We asked Bellwether, our new favorite DC blogger, to come up with a few high and low interpretations of this season's "IT" shoe, the cage bootie. She did an awesome job, and you can check out the results on Washingtonian.com's ShopAround blog right now.

Warning: You'll be running out to the store immediately after reading this post, so check your credit card balance before reading.

Mark Your Calendars: Pandora Trunk Show

Still searching for a Vday gift for your sweetie?

Why not start her a charm bracelet - it's a thoughtful collection that you can add to holiday after holiday and as meaningful events occur in your lives.

Just in luck - Chas. Schwartz is having a complete 2009 trunk show this weekend in Mazza Gallerie ... so there's no excuse for showing up giftless to dinner!

In Case You Missed It: Exclusive February Spa Deals

It's hard getting massages for money ... really hard. But someone has to do it, because otherwise, how would you know where the very best spots in the area are??

This month, check out part one of some exclusive Washingtonian spa deals. They're sweet! Even more are coming in March.

In Case You Missed It: Alexandria Warehouse Sale

Didn't make it to the Alexandria Warehouse Sale this weekend? Never fear - we have all the deets, via this morning's Shop Around post on Washingtonian.com.

(At left, stylish shoppers - we loved that they dressed for the occasion in leggings and slip ons!!- ready themselves to shop till they drop.)

In Case You Missed It: She's got the blues

Back in December, we interviewed the awesome Hilery Sirpis, a super stylish femme who is admittedly obsessed with denim. We're admittedly awed by how this mom of two is so awesome ... and ugh, wears a smaller size than we do.

Here's her story in this month's issue of Washingtonian magazine.

In Case You Missed It: Ten Top Spots for Denim in DC

Ever wondered where to buy great jeans? We tracked the ten best, this month in The Washingtonian ... the paper version! It's now online, just for your viewing pleasure.

Mark Your Calendars: Linea Pelle Trunk Show at Wink

Stop by Wink this week for a sneak peek at Linea Pelle's spring line ... and don't forget to shop while you're at it. We went by last weekend and they had some great stuff!

Mark Your Calendars: Designer Sample Sale at Bethesda Row Shops

Don't miss it ... this is the best thing we've ever heard of happening on a Friday the 13th!!

Coveting ... Bochic Jewelery

If I could have just one new piece of jewelery this year, it would be something by Bochic, an amazing jewelery design duo out of New York. The brainchild of Miriam Salat and David Aaron Joseph, this line epitomizes the stylish woman - feminine yet free-spirited with just a bit of edge.

Of course, we discovered this fab line from the biggest style icon in our lives, our mother, who got one of the rings for Christmas - a chunky piece of black wood with a big diamond starfish across the top.

After seeing Bochic designer Miriam Salat's one-off line of resin and faux stones on designer sample sale Web site Gilt Groupe a few weeks ago, we've been on the hunt for pieces in stores.

And this morning, our wish came true. Bochic is coming to Gilt Groupe on Wednesday at noon!!

We finally have a prayer of being able to afford a piece from this line, worn by celebs like Angelina Jolie, Rihanna, Sandra Bullock, Eva Mendez and Cindy Crawford on the red carpet.

If you're looking to get in on the sale, you've gotta join first ... use code gilt.com/invite/mcleanrobbins to gain exclusive access to this week's sale, plus others this week including Lucy Sykes, Walter, Ali Ro, Ippolita and Nina Ricci.

Happy Shopping!!

You're Invited: New Modernist Society @ Bourbon

It's a bit out of character for us to post hipster type events on DDC, but we've always been intrigued by the Modernist Society, a monthly gathering of minds of the times (and generally provocative speakers) at Bourbon. Here are the deets on the next meeting, to be held Feb. 18th.

Luxe Life: Imagine's Fashion Rx of the week

We are absolutely loving Imagine Fashion Apothecary's "Rx of the Week" e-mail, and this particular guide, geared towards Valentines Day, was too good not to share. Enjoy!
xoxo,
Deacon

Say Yum: Half-Priced Wine at PassionFood Hospitality Restaurants

As of tomorrow, go "halvsies" on all bottles of wine at PassionFood Hospitality's DC restos, including such favorites as TenPenh, Acadiana and DC Coast.

Each Sunday, the wines are half off (Monday, in the case of Ceiba, which is closed on Sundays). The limit is one bottle per entree, two bottles per table, and limited to wines under $100 a bottle.

It's not perfect (no deal is) ... but we welcome any chance to enjoy discounted beverages!

Luxe Life: 48 Hour Valentines Sale at Olavie and Le Vin

You've heard us rave before over our love of the champagne products from Olavie, and now they can be yours for you or your sweetheart for 20% off.

All orders of $75 (easy, when bottles are $35 each) are discounted, and conveniently the last day for standard shipping is February 6th, aka Friday.

Even if you don't have a sweetheart, the fabulous scent in the shower is enough to get anyone feeling warm n' fuzzy ... and even better, there's no hangover in the morning!

Just enter code VDAY09 at checkout to get the deal, via www.olavie.com.

Deacon Exclusive: Love Your Body Month at Mint (plus a spa deal)

Deacon has been all over the DC Spa Scene lately (see our spa deals columns in Washingtonian this month and next) and promises to sniff out the very best in treatment options.

Lots of our favorites are offering special promos in honor of Vday, and today, we're highlighting a deal at MINT, a great local option in Adams Morgan.

The spa is celebrating February as "Love Your Body Month," and showcasing three special packages as a result.

First up is the aptly-named "Love Your Body" package, featuring a facial, pedi, and private training session ($230).

On Valentines Day, feel the love, literally, with a couples yoga class. It's from 4-6 PM (you can get limbered up for your dinner rezzie, or ... um, other activities) for $55 per couple ($65 for non members).

If simple relaxation is more your speed, consider the Chocolate Mint facial, our personal choice. It's a 60 minute facial including a deep cleansing analysis of the skin, exfoliation and extractions as needed. You'll then enjoy a chocolate and cocoa butter mask. Our friends at MINT promise that this proven antioxidant mask combats visual signs of aging as well as nourishes and moisturizes the skin, leaving your face with a silky glow. While you relax, enjoy a mint oil scalp, neck, arm and hand massage. Finish the treatment with a decadent treat from Locolat featuring chocolate, strawberry, and pomegranate. 60 minutes, $100.

Mint is located at 1724 California St NW, near the intersection of 18th and U. Call 202.328.MINT to book and visit www.mintconditionyourself.com for more details.

Say Yum: Chocoholic

Deacon's got a sweet tooth, that's all we can say. Check our latest StoreAdore.com blog post, back after an extended holiday hiatus on a sweet new site!