Behind the Scenes: Relish Biannual Sale

Want to know where DC's well-heeled are searching for bargains? We found them - at Relish's bi-annual sample sale.

In Case You Missed It: 4th of July Fashion Events

Sales, spa deals and more. What could be better? Oh yes ... the extra day off.

Luxe Life: South Moon Under Semi Annual Sale

Starts today! Get it while the going is good!

In Case You Missed It: 20 under $20 - items to fill your beach bag

Deacon is panting with readiness for the thought of the upcoming three day weekend. Want to know what he has on his list of beach bag essentials?

Here it is - our first cheap-chic listing of the summer, via Washingtonian.com.

Psst - these are all female essentials, not doggie bag items - Deacon says all he needs is a water bowl and a wubba to head out and have fun.

You're Invited: Carnival Days at Mystique Jewelers

Say Yum: Find Deacon Here Tonight

Luxe Life: Harriet Kassman Closing Memo

In case you didn't catch it earlier this week, DC style maven and owner of the eponymous clothing store Harriet Kassman has decided to retire and close her store for good. It's a sad day for DC, but thankfully we'll at least benefit from great sale prices for a few weeks. Check out the full memo, below:

Mark Your Calendars: We're Getting a Gucci (Outlet)!

There's now more reason than ever to trek 'cross the Bay Bridge - and no, we're not talking about summer shares in Dewey. Prime Outlets Queenstown is getting a Gucci outlet - the area's first.

Celebrating its grand opening over July 4 weekend, the 6,000 square foot store will join the newly-revamped shopping center and other brand names including Juicy Couture, St. John, BCBG and Coach. As you can tell by the list before you, Gucci is by far the most exciting addition.

"We offer shoppers a comprehensive collection of globally-recognized designer and leading brand-names at Prime Outlets - Queenstown and are thrilled Gucci has chosen Prime Outlets - Queenstown as the home for it newest outlet store," Jackie May, marketing manager for Prime Outlets. "Gucci Outlet will certainly be a draw for our local shoppers along with those from nearby Baltimore and Washington, D.C., as well as tourists visiting our region."

Shopping hours are 10a.m. to 9p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10a.m. to 8p.m. Sunday.

Luxe Life: Paperless Post Custom Invitations

While Deacon still doesn't approve of e-vites for things like wedding invitations, customized electronic messaging services for certain kinds of correspondence are definitely on the "yes" list. Many party invitations, particularly those for less formal gatherings or those taking place with larger groups, can more effectively be managed via electronic corresponence.

You've heard us extoll the virtues of iomoi.com, one of our favorite sites for less-formal thank you's and general "how do you do's," but a new kid on the block may soon usurp their top dog status.

Paperless Post, a site still in beta, promises invitations with the same look and virtual "feel" as high-quality paper invitations, plus a cool flash intro that simulates the pleasure that comes from actually opening an invite. Even better - the site is free (in limited quantities). Choose your look (classic or modern) and occasion, as well as a variety of motifs, colors, and fonts. The writing assistant will even offer suggestions on proper verbage for the occasion.

We're pretty impressed - what are your thoughts? You can sign up via our own special DeaconDoesDC invitation code, here.

Splurge vs. Steal: Inspired by Mexico

Earlier this season, I fell in love with the "Holding Court" caftan dress by Nanette Lepore. In simple white or electric blue, I thought that it was wearable enough to sport all over town. Sadly, the fit was not so stellar. (Then again, if you're not bootylicious, it might look fab on you).

Today, I was tickled to no end when I spotted this strikingly similar frock by French Connection for $175 less AND in a flowy, more flattering fit.

Which is your top pick? Nanette, $275 (left, at ShopBop.com) and French Connection, $99 (right, at French Connection) ... I'll be sporting my "steal" to tomorrow's Mie N Yu happy hour kickoff party. See you there!

You're Invited: Butter Meet n' Greet at Simply Soles

Tonight, meet lead designer Lee Reich of fabulous shoe line BUTTER, as well as enjoy 15 percent off your purchase if you bring a pair of gently used shoes to donate to Suited For Change!

Deacon Says: Take Me on Vacation!

Sometimes, a dog's just gotta get a word in edgewise. It's summertime, and I really don't think it's fair that everyone and their mother is jetting off to beachy locales, leaving me home in Annapolis with my wubba.

I'll admit to crying at the sight of suitcases and generally moping until my parents return. That's why I was wriggling my whole body with delight when DogFriendly.com released their top ten list of pet-friendly travel spots.

I'm sharing - in hopes that you'll share your vacation with me too!

1. Carmel / Monterey, CA - Many pet-friendly accommodations. Off-leash Carmel City Beach. Many walking and hiking options. Shop and dine in luxury.
2. Bar Harbor / Acadia, ME - Pet-friendly Acadia National Park. Shop in the historic downtown. Take a ferry or boat cruise.
3. Black Hills, SD - Lots of dog-friendly attractions and campgrounds. Mt. Rushmore worth visiting with a dog. See Badlands National Park.
4. St Augustine, FL - See the historic downtown. Lots of dog-friendly shopping and dining. Take a harbor boat cruise and a ghost tour.
5. Cape Cod, MA - Visit Cape Cod National Seashore. Many cruises and
6. Key West, FL - Quaint B&B's and outdoor dining. Dog-friendly attractions, boating and stores. See the Southernmost Point Monument.
7. Charlottesville, VA - Visit estates of Thomas Jefferson and Patrick Henry. Shop at the downtown mall. Visit dog-friendly Shenandoah Park nearby.
8. Mendocino, CA - Stay in a pet-friendly B&B or resort. Walk the seaside town. Go to the beach and dine outdoors.
9. Asheville / Blue Ridge, NC - Tour the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visit the Biltmore Estate grounds and shop at Biltmore Village.
10. Amarillo, TX - Visit the famous Cadillac Ranch. Spend a day or camp at Palo Duro Canyon. Stay at the Big Texan Steak Ranch Motel.

Honorable Mentions:

• Corpus Christi, TX
• Grand Canyon, AZ
• Lake Tahoe, CA/NV
• Mackinac Island, MI
• San Luis Obispo, CA

Deacon Exclusive: A Smoothie for your Face - a recipe from The Still Point

We think you know by now that The Still Point in Takhoma Park is one of our all-time favorite spas. Fanny is hands down the best masseuse we've ever had, and Sara gives one mean facial. Somehow, we've also become inextricably hooked on their skincare products, using a mixture of Kimberly Sayer, Sensatia, and Combat Ready products on our face daily.

But with all of this summer sun (wear your SPF!), sometimes your face still needs a little "boost." That's why we asked Sara Damelio, spa manager, if there was anything that could help extend the life of our monthly facials and brighten skin from within.

She gave us her exclusive and to-this-point super secret "Skin Smoothie" recipe. Have this daily for breakfast, and you'll notice brighter, smoother skin in as little as two weeks.

Ingreds:

• 1 C Kefir - plain
• 1 scoop Green Vibrance
• 1 TB UDO 3-6-9 essential fatty acid
• Sea Salt, to taste

Blend, over ice if desired, and drink cold.

All of these ingredients are available at Whole Foods. As a bonus, the ingredients even contain Omega 3's, a "good" fat found in fish like salmon that improves cardiovascular and brain health.

Bottoms up!!


The Still Point is a Deacon Featured Partner - but we really do love the spa!!!

Coveting ... Mimi So

Deacon loves his diamonds - and discovering new favorites is one of his best pasttimes. Today, we present to you Mimi So - one of our all-time favorite jewelery designers.

Worn by celebs including Oprah and SJP, the Parsons-educated designer hit it big when she designed the bling for David Bowie and Iman's wedding. Today, you can find her designs in specialty shops and select Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus stores, including our very own Tysons Corner.


Don't miss their sale today on Gilt Groupe at noon!
If you're not a member, click the link for a special invite code from Deacon.

In Case You Missed It: This Week's Fashion Events

Want to know what's going on this week? Deacon used his amazing sniffer to find this week's hottest fashion events.

Simply Savings

Columbia Heights fave Simply Soles is hosting two events this week sure to send you searching for new shoes. Today (Tuesday), visit the Simply Soles blog and answer a question about owner Kassie Rempel’s new guilty pleasure (the Twilight series) and score up to 40 percent off your purchase for 36 hours. Tomorrow (Wednesday), pop into the store for an exclusive meet-n-greet with Butter lead designer Lee Reich. Bring a pair of gently-used shoes to donate and you’ll snag 15 percent off your purchase. June 2. Event June 24 5 – 8:30 PM. 1438 Park Rd., NW, Columbia Heights, 202.232.0072; www.simiplysoles.com.

Sensational Summer Sale

BCBG has launched their full-scale summer sale, with 50 to 70 percent off selected skirts, dresses, bathing suits and more. Shop early for the best bargains – we saw many of our favorite just-perused styles for half off or more. Georgetown, Tysons Corner, Pentagon City; www.bcbg.com.

Retirement Revelry

After more than 30 years in business, longtime Mazza Gallerie favorite Harriet Kassman is closing her doors for good. We’re sad to see this stylish store depart, but excited to scope the bargains. The store is closed through Wednesday in preparation, but will re-open Thursday morning to showcase extreme bargains of up to 60 percent on designers like Lafayette 148, Bogner, Rose Taft and more. Everything’s gotta go – including bridal and fixtures, so be sure to arrive early! June 25. 10 am. 5300 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Mazza Gallerie, 202.363.1870; www.harrietkassman.com.

Bag Lady

Alexandria fave Periwinkle is hosting an exceptional series of trunk shows to lure travelers out of the heat and into their store. Thursday, take 25 percent off all Mary Nicholls handbags. This NYC-based designer has a sparkling selection of colorful totes and clutches, perfect for taking along on your summer travels. June 25. 10 am – 8 pm. 1557 Potomac Greens Drive, Alexandria, 703.519.5242; www.periwinkleshop.com.

Solstice Sales

This weekend, make sure to head to Old Town. The 21 boutiques comprising the Old Town Boutique District are hosting three days of sales, promos and tastings in celebration of the longest days of the year. Enjoy free lemonade and lip scrubs at Bellacara, free design consults at Red Barn Mercantile, 25 percent off summer baby wear at Apple Seed an much, much more. Visit www.OldTownBoutiqueDistrict.com for a complete list of participating stores.

Luxe Live: I "Vant" More Shoes

Deacon hasn't caught on to the Twilight craze, but our good friend Kassie over at Simply Soles certainly has. This one is for all your vampire fiends out there - visit her blog today and answer a Twilight question to receive a code for a whopping 40 percent off your purchase!

This has us seeing red ... in a good way :-)

You're Invited: Sinatra Soiree

It may seem early to be buying tickets to a mid-July event, but this one really is quite fun!

In Case You Missed It: Fashion and Beauty News For June

Want to know what's hot in DC this month? Don't miss today's Fashion and Beauty picks, via JuliB. Deacon has the scoop on cellulite-busting self-tanners, spf lip tints, chic new sneaks from Keds and more.

You're Invited: Gossip Girl Designer Trunk Show at Imagine

Say Yum: Chocolate-Taste Testing For Bliss Spa

Say Yum: Celebrate Father's Day with Free Sundae Sunday at Giffords!

This Father's Day, give dad a sweet treat.

Treat him to Giffords, DC's quintessential ice cream parlor, this weekend in celebration of Father's Day, the first day of summer and the upcoming Fox Searchlight film, 500 Days of Summer.

Starting at noon on June 21, the first 500 people to enter area Giffords stores will receive a FREE novelty Sundae.

Now that's something to scream about. Follow @foxsearchlight for locations.

You're Invited: Summer Swing Under the Stars

Thursday, we encourage you to dance the night away at Summer Swing Under the Stars at AKA White House (1710 H St. NW) in support of The Courage Cup and Work to Ride, the first African American polo program designed to help at-risk youth.

For just $30, enjoy music by DC Swing! while you practice your moves on AKA's roof top, and enjoy gratis bubbly and apps from Barefoot Bubbly and Entree Metropolitan.

This event is being held in lieu of the annual Meadow Matches competition, which is being expected to return in 2010.

Ticket prices directly benefit The Courage Cup, an IRS designated 501(c) (3) non-profit corporation which was established to help at-risk urban youth. Purchase tickets here.

In Case You Missed It: Great Gifts for Dear old Dad

Still searching for the perfect Father's Day find? We found six of the coolest gifts and gadgets around. Check it out on Washingtonian.com.

You're Invited: Fresh Fashion Show

Enjoy this fun fashion event from Georgetown's Fresh Boutique!

Mark Your Calendars: So You Think You Can Dance?

Don't miss this awesome first annual DC Dance fest, featuring some of the area's best troupes. The model, which has had great success in New York, aims to bring awareness to the DC dance scene as well as engage new audiences who may not have seen performances.

Join the new velocityDC dance troupe at SKY BAR on June 17th for an exclusive soiree. We know you'll love it ...

Deacon Says: My 'Hood

Yesterday, we discovered the funniest video we've seen in a long time. It's an Arlington Rap, coincidentally about Deacon and McLean's 'hood. Overnight, the hits soared from 20K to well over 100K, but if you haven't seen it, check it out, here.

You're Invited: Friday Night Yoga Party

Sometimes, a dog's just gotta relax on a Friday night. What better way than with a Friday night yoga party? MINT (in Adam's Morgan) is hosting this fun new event - let us know if you check it out!!

Say Yum: Poste Roasts - Farm to Table Dinners

Despite the recent rain, June is predictably one of DC's nicest months. And with summer sun, who isn't searching for a great outdoor spot to eat?

One of Deacon's favorite spots to grab a summer cocktail is the Hotel Monaco's Poste Modern Brasserie, located in Penn Quarter. We're excited to report that Chef Robert Weland has launched a new summer concept called "Poste Roasts," available every night except Thursdays at the Chef's Table.

Here, you'll enjoy spit-roasted meats and summer-inspired dishes, all sourced from local farmers markets and purveyors. (For more info on this phenomenon, read Melissa McCart's great piece in this morning's Washington Post!)

On Thursdays, enjoy the market to market dinners, where guests venture with the chef to the Penn Quarter Farmers Market to find ingredients.

‘Poste Roasts’ are served at the new outdoor Chef’s table, handcrafted with local Virginia stone and sustainable teak wood.

Guests must book one week in advance, and upon reserving select one animal of choice to be roasted. Chef-selected pairings of local Virginia wines are also available with roasts.

The dinner is available for a minimum of six people and maximum of 12, and costs $27 per person.

If you're interested in booking a dinner, contact Stacy Nemeth, private dining coordinator, 202.449.7062.

Menus have included:

• Whole suckling pig with sauerkraut and roasted summer fruit. Side: Macaroni and cheese. Suggested wine pairing: Pollak Pinot Gris.
• Rosemary roasted cappretto (baby goat). Side: Anson mills creamy polenta, charred ramps and spring vegetables. Suggested wine pairing: Fabbioli Cabernet Franc.
• LBJ Slow Roasted Beef Brisket. Side: Baked beans and coleslaw. Suggested wine pairing: Quivira Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel.* (non-Virginia selection)
• Whole Roasted Baby Lamb. Side: Shepherd’s pie and wood-grilled asparagus. Suggested wine pairing: Kluge Estate New World Red.
• Soy Honey Marinated Peking Duck. Side: Forbidden rice, mango and garden cilantro. Suggested wine pairing: Thibaut Jannison Blanc de Chardonnay.
• Spice-Roasted Poussin. Side: Yukon gold potato purée and garden vegetables. Suggested wine pairing: Horton Vineyards Viognier.
• Spit-Roasted Smoked Squab (served medium rare only). Side: Lyonnaise potato and onion tart and aged sherry vinegar sauce. Suggested wine pairing: Pollak Durant Red (Merlot).
• Grilled Side of Wild Alaskan King Salmon** sustainable salmon sourced from Alaska. Side: Roasted fingerling potatoes, garden parsley sabayon, and charred spring onions. Suggested wine pairing: Kluge Estate & Vineyards Albemarle Rose.

Mark Your Calendars: Ananas Sample Sale This Weekend

Don't miss the sample sale from NYC fave Ananas - 50-75% off her chic tote bags, to be held this Saturday at Firefly restaurant, one of Deacon's favorite spots for brunch. Designer Anya Ponorovskaya will also bring her signature summer frocks, rompers and skirts for a deeply discounted price.

In case the lure of a sale didn't convince you - $1 from every mimosa sold and 5% of all proceeds will be donated to "Team Firefly," members of the restaurant's staff who will be walking in the Breast Cancer Three Day walk this fall.

Mark Your Calendars: An Annapolis Summer Sample Sale from Saucy Shoes and Laura Bevilacqua

Annapolis faves Laura Bevilacqua and Saucy Shoes are teaming up to bring you a summer sample sale you won’t soon forget. For one day only, they’re offering amazing deals of up to 70 percent off spring and summer merchandise from names like M Missoni, Tucker, Valentino Red, Pedro Garcia, Bettye Muller, Delman, Tom Ford Sunglasses and more. June 14. Noon. Atlantic Arts Inc., 1851 McGuckian Street
Annapolis, 410-591-3559 or 443-926-1456 for more details.

In Case You Missed It: This Week's Fashion Events

Deacon has a new regular roundup of fashion, spa and other fun happenings on Washingtonian.com. Don't miss it each week in their fashion and beauty newsletter ... or you can just wait for us to link to it.

Also, in case you're interested - Deacon went for a little ride the other day, courtesy of Kevin, our sister's boyfriend ...

You're Invited: Save 20% on Citizens, Current/Eliot, JBrand and more!

National Jean Co. is having their fabulous seasonal sale, which kicks off online today with 20 percent off sitewide!

You're Invited: BestCellars Celebrates, You Save

You're Invited: Botox Bailout Tomorrow!

Searching for a job causing fine lines and wrinkles?? Reveal MedSpa is offering a special one-day promotion with FREE Botox for unemployed ladies. Pretty awesome!

In Case You Missed It: JuliB Brings The Best June Events

Want to know what's hot? We'd suggest subscribing to our twice-weekly installments of JuliB DC, aka DailyCandy's more luxury-focused sibling, this one owned by Modern Luxury Media.

Here's this month's guide

You're Invited: Rebecca Minkoff Sample Sale

Don't miss this great chance to score one of the hottest handbag designers' merch at unbelievably low prices!

You're Invited: Casino Night at Teatro

Put down your chips to benefit Pediatric AIDS research at Teatro Goldoni tonight.

An optional $20 donation gets you unlimited chips for roulette, craps, poker and wheel of fortune, while those who rule the poker table can also opt for $200 buy ins for a Texas Hold 'Em tournament.

Sounds like a good time for a great cause!

Luxe Life: Sephora Chevy Chase Opens its Doors Tomorrow!

The Wisconsin Place shops (home to the Chevy Chase Bloomies) just got better with the addition of the area's first Sephora store. Since Deacon's day job is just down the street, you can bet your booty that we'll be scooting here regularly on our lunch breaks.

To celebrate the opening, the first 100 guests get the chance to draw for gift cards valued at up to $100.

So go ahead, put your best face forward and head on out to the opening- we have a feeling it will pay off in the end :-)

Shops at Wisconsin Place
5330E Western Avenue, Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Mon.- Fri. 9:00am-9:00pm Sat - Sun. 10:00am-6:00pm

You're Invited: Eco-Chic with Skincando and Sherman Pickey

In Case You Missed It: Ex Mrs. Hedgefund Book Launch

Did you miss the chance to meet Jill Kargman at the book launch party for The Ex Mrs. Hedgefund at Nanette Lepore? Never fear, Deacon has the scoop, via Washingtonian.com.

In Case You Missed it: Blue Ridge Opens

Want the full scoop on Blue Ridge, the latest Glover Park hotspot from the team behind Sonoma and Mendocino Grille? Check it, here, via JuliB.

Deacon Exclusive: Get Your Foot in the Door at DC's Top Catering Company

Looking for a job in marketing?

Why not get your foot in the door with Deacon's latest job alert - the assistant to the VP of Marketing and Sales at Windows Catering Company. Here, you'll work with our good friend Alina helping to research new market activities, map out potential customers and competitors, determine unmet needs, contact and conduct initial follow-ups on sales prospects, create and modify marketing and sales materials, perform general clerical duties, and provide administrative support to the VP of Marketing. More deets below:

Qualified candidates must have graphic design and writing experience. Computer literacy is required (Microsoft Office Suite, Photoshop, and InDesign). Previous customer service experience is a strong plus.

Windows Catering Company has established a national reputation for exceptional food, creativity, and presentation, combined with outstanding service. Our team provides full-service catering, party planning, and event management services for corporate entertaining, galas and fund-raisers, social events, weddings, receptions, and business breakfast/luncheons.
Visit our website for application materials at www.catering.com

Recent Windows Catering Company Accolades:
...Selected as one of the "25 Great, Big Caterers" in the USA by Special Events Magazine ...Voted as one of the Best Catering Companies in Washington, DC by Washingtonian Magazine
...Selected as one of the Best Caterers in Washington, DC by The Knot Magazine

Benefits of Joining Windows Catering Company:
...Full-Time Employment
...Health & Dental Insurance
...Personal and Vacation Time Off
...Employee Discount
...Free Lunch
...Retirement Plan
...Great Atmosphere
...Advancement Potential

Deacon Exclusive: DC on TV

Yes, Deacon fans, it's true - reality TV has descended upon Washington.

In addition to Blonde Charity Mafia, which is rumored to have been picked up for a second season before the show even premiers July 7th on the CW, DC has become host to two other reality franchises.

Bravo's "Real Housewives" franchise has begun scouting for cast members (they've reportedly got 25 finalists from which to choose, among them Ask Miss A's Andrea Rodgers) and MTV has finally landed a house (we hear) and begins shooting its 23rd season of "The Real World" soon.

Half Yard productions is working on a series about PR and Media types, tentatively titled "Inside Washington," where Tommy McFly and Rachel Cothran are rumored potential castees. 44 Blue Productions is also casting about for another reality series about young DC women, tentatively titled "Young Washington."