Union Station's hottest shoe shop, Shoe Woo, has finally launched a Web presence. We fell in love with this cute store while attending the Johnny Walker tasting a few months ago and are tickled that we can now peruse from the comfort of our laptop anywhere in the world.
Enjoy a great girly shopping experience on this new site, offering names like Boutique 9, Nine West, Anne Klein and more.
As part of the launch, they're also offering a $1,500 "make over my closet" sweepstakes. That might not sound like much if you're a Louboutin lover, but the best part about this site is that these shoes are chic and cheap - you'll enjoy at least 10 new pair if you win!
We can't wait for this fashionista-worthy flick to hit theaters, and now Deacon readers will get a sneak peek before the rest of DC! Join Deacon on Monday for a pre-party at L2 lounge and an advance screening at the AMC theater in Georgetown.
Event details:
Monday, April 5th, 2010
5:30 – 7:20pm Cocktail reception at L2 Lounge (3307 M Street NW)
7:30pm Advance screening of the film begins at AMC Georgetown (3111 K Street NW)
Please join us at L2 Lounge for signature drinks and giveaways from the film. Immediately following the reception, we will be hosting a special screening in advance of the film’s release in Washington, DC. The first 100 people to check-in at L2 will have reserved seating at the theater.
We love anything Kelly DiNardo puts together, but we're special fans of her new yoga studio, Past Tense. Help Ms. Dinardo with her latest effort - a contest for small business owners. Learn more about Past Tense and what free enterprise means to the staff in this informational video ... plus, it might inspire you to do more yoga!
Looking for a warm weather getaway? Deacon has just the spot. Sugar Ridge is Antigua's latest luxury property - and we know you want the deets. Check it, via JuliB.
Two causes near and dear to Deacon's own heart - the plight of soldiers and the needs of rescue and abused pups, are combined in this happy tale out of Walter Reed Medical Center. Thanks to NBC Washington for producing this wonderful piece.
DC's restaurant Oscars may be a few months away yet, but last night, a star-studded DC foodie crowd gathered at the Ritz-Carlton DC for the annual RAMMY nominations fete, celebrating the precursor to the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) awards party on June 6.
Selecting the RAMMY nominees, and ultimately the winners, involves four separate processes, two separate panel of judges, the voting public and, for just one award – the Joan Hisaoka Associate Member of the Year – RAMW. Votes for the four publicly voted categories can be cast through a special ballot appearing in The Washington City Paper on April 29th or online at www.ramw.org.
The 2010 RAMMY Award winners will be announced at the RAMMY gala on June 6, 2010 at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington, DC. The theme of the 2010 RAMMY Awards is “We’ll Always Have… Restaurants,” and is a play on a famous line from the 1940’s movie Casablanca.
A portion of the proceeds from the gala will benefit the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Association Education Foundation to fund scholarships for culinary education students, enabling them to develop and expand their career opportunities in the restaurant industry.
Deacon highly suggests you check out these nominated spots now, because once they win the coveted RAMMY title, the rezzies will be increasingly difficult to get. Plus, who doesn't want to dine at one of the best spots in town, as recognized by the most knowledgeable DC industry insiders themselves?
This year marks the return of many old favorite categories, plus a new addition, honoring the area's best beverage/mixology program.
Fine Dining
The nominee is a member restaurant that demonstrates an unwavering standard of dining excellence in food, service and ambiance. The nominee must have been in business a minimum of two years by December 1, 2009. 2941, Falls Church, VA; Michel Richard Citronelle, Washington, DC; Minibar by José Andrés, Washington, DC; The Oval Room, Washington, DC; The Source by Wolfgang Puck, Washington, DC
Upscale Casual
The nominee is a member restaurant that demonstrates a commitment to dining excellence in food, service and ambiance. The dining experience may be more casual than Fine Dining, the price point lower, but the commitment to excellence is paramount. The nominee must have been in business a minimum of two years by December 1, 2009. Central Michel Richard, Washington, DC; The Liberty Tavern, Arlington, VA; Proof, Washington, DC; Vermilion, Alexandria, VA; Zaytinya, Washington, DC
New Restaurant
A restaurant that must have been opened between December 1, 2008 and November 30, 2009 and already distinguishes itself as a pacesetter in food, beverage and service. Bibiana, Washington, DC; Birch & Barley, Washington, DC; Bourbon Steak, Washington, DC; Eventide, Arlington, VA; Inox, McLean, VA
Chef
The nominee is an executive chef or chef de cuisine who demonstrates consistent standards of excellence and serves as an inspiration to other food professionals. The nominee displays a dedication to the artistry of food, exhibits an ongoing commitment to the community and may be from any type of establishment. The nominee must have been a chef for the past five years with a minimum of two years based in the Metropolitan Washington area. Bertrand Chemel - 2941, Falls Church, VA; Scott Drewno – The Source by Wolfgang Puck, Washington, DC; Daniel Giusti - 1789, Washington, DC; Vikram Sunderam - Rasika, Washington, DC; Haidar Karoum - Proof, Washington, DC
Rising Culinary Star
The nominee is an “up and coming” chef who demonstrates exemplary talent, shows leadership and promise for the future. The nominee must have been based in the Metropolitan Washington area for a minimum of two years. Michael Isabella – Zaytinya, Washington, DC; Liam LaCivita - The Liberty Tavern, Arlington, VA; Shannon Overmiller - Majestic Café, Alexandria, VA; Nicholas Stefanelli - Bibiana, Washington, DC; Jon Mathieson - Inox, McLean, VA
Pastry Chef
The nominee is a restaurant pastry chef who prepares desserts and pastries and demonstrates a high standard of excellence and culinary artistry. The nominee serves as an inspiration to other food professionals. The nominee must have been a pastry chef for the past five years with a minimum of two years based in the Metropolitan Washington area. Anthony Chavez - 2941, Falls Church, VA; Amanda Cook - CityZen, Washington, DC; Josh Short - Neighborhood Restaurant Group, Washington DC & VA; Fabrice Bendano - Adour, Washington, DC; Travis Olson - 1789, Washington, DC
Wine Program
The member restaurant is distinguished by the quality, diversity, clarity and value of its wine program. The nominee’s wine program best suits the cuisine and style of the restaurant while enhancing the dining experience. The nominated restaurant must have been in operation for a minimum of two years by December 1, 2009. 2941, Falls Church, VA; Michel RichardCitronelle, Washington, DC; Dino, Washington, DC; 701/Ardeo/Bardeo/Bibiana/Bombay Club/The Oval Room/Rasika, Washington, DC; Proof, Washington, DC
Beverage/Mixology Program
The member restaurant is distinguished by the quality, diversity, creativity, clarity and value of its beverage program. The nominee’s beverage program best suits the cuisine and style of the restaurant while enhancing the restaurant experience. The nominated restaurant must have been in operation for a minimum of two years by December 1, 2009 Brasserie Beck, Washington, DC; EatGoodFoodGroup, Alexandria, VA; Founding Farmers, Washington, DC; PS7’s, Washington, DC; Tabard Inn, Washington, DC
Neighborhood Gathering Place
This nominee is a restaurant that demonstrates a high standard of quality and congeniality rooted in its neighborhood. Bar Pilar, Washington, DC; Belga Café, Washington, DC; Cork, Washington, DC; EatBar, Arlington, VA; Kemble Park Tavern, Washington, DC
Restaurant Power Spot
This nominee is a top choice member restaurant, a spot to “see and be seen” with the movers and shakers on the national and local political and business scene. It best exemplifies “how Metropolitan Washington works.” Art & Soul, Washington, DC; BLT Steak, Washington, DC; Bombay Club, Washington, DC; The Source, Washington, DC; Teatro Goldoni, Washington, DC
Hottest Restaurant Bar Scene
This nominee is a member restaurant or hotel bar that is innovative with an energetic scene (atmosphere, drink menu, etc.) with a hip and eclectic crowd and is a great people watching and meeting place. Birch & Barley and ChurchKey, Washington, DC; Bourbon Steak, Washington, DC; Masa 14, Washington, DC; Posto, Washington, DC; POV, Washington, DC
Tickets to the RAMMYS may be purchased by calling 202.331.5990 or by e-mail at rammys@ramw.org.
We just had to share this great video (thanks to our friends over at Nordstrom for sending it) detailing behind-the-scenes action at the just-closed Rodarte exhibition in the Cooper Hewitt Design Museum in New York.
Are you ready to save on some of your favorite stores? Enjoy special discounts from places like Zelaya, Rue 14, Caramel, Simply Soles and more over on MyiLive.com/Sale. The madness started yesterday, so get on it before the good stuff is gone!
If you love luxury and technology, take a gander at this latest melding - theiPhone app from Relais & Chateaux. Avail for free, this new app allows for geo-location of member properties, availability, a telephone tab that connects directly to Relais & Chateaux, proposed itineraries to help get the most out of a stay, and Google Maps. Each of the 480 properties comes complete with panoramic photo images and personalized pages, so there's no need to return to your laptop before booking. You can also forward the details to friends, in case you're interested in planning a group outing.
"Relais & Chateaux constantly adapts to the needs of its guests by offering both innovative and efficient interactive services and information. Following up on the upgrade of our central reservations and our website, the development of applications for mobile phones is the next logical step to ensure that travelers can get information anytime they wish," said Jaume Tapies, the International President of Relais & Chateaux.
Don't forget to join Deacon tomorrow at Alchimie Forever to benefit our Fashion for Paws Campaign. A nominal donation at the door via cash, check or CC gets you mini facials, cocktails and cake from 6 to 8 pm! Please e-mail with questions and check out the Facebook invite for more details!
Sample sales for ... wine? Why not? These days, it seems like you can get the best of just about everything in a flash online sale, but we're particularly excited about Winery Insider, a new sale site dedicated just to the world's best vinos. It was touted in DailyCandy this AM, so you'd better start shopping fast - or your fave vintages will have been snapped up!
You may have heard the rumors, but now they're confirmed. The second Capella property in the United States (following Telluride) will be none other than a Georgetown property! Deacon's all-time favorite chain announced today that they have partnered with ICG Properties and Castleton Holdings to created Capella Georgetown, slated for opening in January of 2012.
The property will be located near the Four Seasons on 31st street near the C&O canal and will include renovation of an existing commercial building.
The intimate property will feature just 48 guestrooms and suites, plus a restaurant and lounge, boardroom, rooftop pool and full-service spa.
The hotel also promises ideal views overlooking Watergate, the Kennedy Center and the Potomac River. Construction on the hotel will begin in January 2011.
In case you're not already familiar, Capella Hotels and Resorts CEO Horst Schulze had a prior 19-year career with the Ritz-Carlton chain before leaving to create Capella, a unique brand that takes its name from an exceptionally bright star that also happens to be the "sixth" star, a nod to the fact that the hotel's service and amenities are of higher quality than any five-star property in the world.
Don't miss you exclusive chance this weekend to chat with designer to the stars David Meister when he makes an in-person appearance at Neiman Marcus Tysons Corner. This Saturday, the famed designer will be doing a meet n' greet as well as offering tops on how to dress to flatter every figure at 11:00 a.m. We'd highly recommend attending .... after all, who wouldn't want tips from the designer seen on red carpets like the Grammys, Academy Awards and more?
Don't miss the chance to help children around the world with this wonderful benefit for Operation Smile. Started by one of Deacon's dear friends, this great benefit is also a fabulous party - and who misses a chance to party? Not this pup. Click the image at left for more information about the April 10th gala and how you can contribute.
Last night, nearly 800 stylish shoppers gathered at the biannual District Sample Sale to peruse merchandise from 30+ boutiques in the DMV area, plus enjoy gratis treats from places like Co. Co. Sala, Georgetown Cupcake, La Tasca and more. This year's fashionable fundraiser benefitted CityDance Early Arts foundation. VIP attendees enjoyed an extra hour of shopping, which allowed for plenty of time to enjoy the non-shopping perks, including blowouts from One80(amazing!) and a lip bar from Le Metier de Beaute. Deacon took advantage of both, naturally.
We also enjoyed catching up with all of our favorite area media movers and shakers, including Tommy McFly of 107.3, Alison Priebe Brooks of Queen Bee Designs and Local Kicks, Kelly Collis Frederick of CityShopGirl, Kate Michael of K Street Kate, Makeda Saggau-Sackey from The Glamazon Diaries, Mary Kate Rasa of Bisnow, Stephanie Green of The Huffington Post, Maurisa Turner Potts, PR maven extraordinare and many more!
If you didn't make it, enjoy our small selection of photos, below, including the pic of yours truly with DSS founder and rumored Housewife Mary Amons that appeared in today's Bisnow (thanks Makeda!). The lovely Ruth Barzel and her partner in crime. Barbara Martin and Jayne Sandman of Fingerprint DC, fabulous event publicists, flanking Tommy McFly. Georgetown Cupcake!
Yes, this is the VIP line. Yes, this is the VIP line.
Also, thanks to Mr. Tommy McFly for including us in this fun video!
Great things come unexpectedly, and our most recent fashion obsession is no exception. Introduced to us by a former grad school professor, the newAnn Yee collection(only in its third season ever) is one of our favorites.
This NYC-based designer originally hails from Michigan, but has been in the industry for years, interning with names like Jill Stuart and working on designs for names like LaROK and Elizabeth + James.
Not only are the ultra-femme looks super wearable, (can't you just see these designs in a store like Muleh or Hu's Wear?) we're rather intrigued by the concept of her A/W video lookbook. You can't currently find her here, but if you're in NYC, she's sold at albertine and EVA.
What's better than cocktails and fashion? Not much, in our minds. Pop into Bistrot Lepic between 3 and 5 tomorrow for an exclusive glimpse at designer Sylvia Gottwald's pearl creations. Twenty pieces from her collection will be shown today through April 16th, but it's only tomorrow when you'll be able to meet the famed designer in person... plus enjoy comp wines and nibbles.
Over the years, her designs have been featured on the covers of European Vogue and Elle Décor magazines. They have been exhibited in museums around the world including the Louvre, Museum of Modern Art, and the Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, DC.
Born in Croatia, Gottwald studied in Rome and Canada before arriving in the United States to earn a Masters in Architecture at Harvard. She studied urban planning at MIT and worked internationally as an architect, urban planner and cultural heritage preservationist. During her extensive travels throughout Asia, she indulged her passion for collecting rare shells.
Obviously, it worked - her clients include celebs like Zandra Rhodes, Debra Lee, Jesse Jackson and Eva Bohnet, wife of current president of Germany.
Red Carpet awards season is in full swing - do you know what you're wearing to look paparazzi perfect? Join Mervis Diamond Importers on March 18th for a shopping and styling bash benefiting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. To RSVP, click the image at left.
Spa Week booking doesn't open until the 15th, but get your discount on early from SpaFinder. This week, they're offering $50 treatments, avail for one week only from local spas. Some of our faves are on there, so don't wait - check it out now!
With beer and food pairings becoming more and more popular, Brabo wants to give Washingtonians an opportunity to test wine against beer. Enter Brabo wine director, Leah Dedmon, who will take on beer director from Brasserie Beck, Thor Cheston, for a four course battle to fend for their beverage of choice.
Executive Chef Robert Wiedmaier will prepare a special menu and Dedmon and Cheston will select their perfect pairing of wine and beer (respectively) to match each course. Diners will have a chance to try each pairing and will vote on a winner at the end. Without revealing their selections for the evening, Cheston plans on using a wide variety of beers, from modern American microbrews to classic Belgian styles, while Dedmon will look mostly to her favorite regions of France for her wine picks. The fun and casual evening will be a delicious experience, which highlights just how well food and wine –and food and beer can complement each other. Plus guests will have an opportunity to learn from a knight of the Belgian Brewers’ Guild.
First Course Oyster Gratin Hama Hama Oysters, Champagne and Rocca Cheese
Second Course Roasted Medallions of Monkfish Niçoise Olives and Parma Ham
Third Course Roasted Pork Tenderloin Potato Gallette and Apple Honey Mead Sauce
Cheese Course Roasted Yellow Beets with Caramelized Walnuts Red Onion, Quenelle of Epoisse
Cost for the dinner is $95 per person, excluding tax and gratuity. Reservations are required. When: Wednesday, March 10th at 7:00 p.m. For reservations and for more information contact Martina Buenaventura at 571-482-3308
If you're anything like Deacon, you're constantly on the hunt for that perfect gift or home accessory - something that is completely unique, usually custom, and totally tailored to the recipient. That's what you'll find at M29 Lifestyle, a new M Street boutique that serves also as the Four Seasons gift shop. From baby to wedding to house-warming, you'll find a well-edited selection of clothing, jewelery, art and accessories that usually can't be found anywhere else in DC. Plus, if you're searching for another color or size, the oh-so-helpful team will custom-order the item to your specifications.
Boasting industrial-chic decor and display cases and art (all for sale) that are as cute as the merch, this shop is soon to become one of our faves.
One of Deacon's fave shoe shops has relocated- and thankfully for us, it's SO MUCH CLOSER! SimplySoles has moved from Columbia Heights to Georgetown Park, right across from Anthro in the old Ann Taylor Loft location.
Pop by today for bubbly and treats, plus a perusal of all of the great spring merch!
Have you bought your Fashion for Paws ticket yet? Don't wait a minute - they're selling fast! As an added incentive to buy your tix through Deacon himself, our good friend over at Skincando is offering a FREE Combat Ready Balm to anyone who purchases through our page.
Plus, if you're a local business looking to buy an ad (or someone with deep pockets looking to buy a table), she'll give you a free luxury organic facial from her new spa.
We're sad to see you go, West Elm! You've long been one of our fave stops for stylish furniture at a fraction of the cost of your big sis, Pottery Barn. Thankfully, your Tysons Corner location is remaining open for those days we just *need* a fix.
Thanks to Deacon fan Sophie Pyle for passing along this great book launch party invite!
"Author Dennis McKay will host a launch party for his new novel Once Upon Wisconsin on Thursday, March 4, 2010 at the Peacock Café. The event will include a book signing, happy hour, and a three-course dinner—and Deacon Does DC readers are invited! McKay’s novel, Once Upon Wisconsin, describes in beautiful detail a man’s journey through love, loss, and rebirth. It has received acclaim from fellow authors and readers alike. "The dying art of scenic description is on shining display here. It's an adventure that kept me scooting forward to see where the road was going," said Peter Brown, author of Ruthie Black and Gone With the Gin.
The launch party will be held at Peacock Café, 3251 Prospect Street NW. It will begin with a happy hour and book signing at 6:00 p.m., followed by a $30 three-course, prix fixe dinner beginning around 7:30 p.m.
Your book purchase guarantees happy hour admission and/or dinner reservations for you and one guest. Tickets/books can be pre-purchased onlinevia Eventbrite.
Join David Yurman Tysons Corner for an exciting night of shopping and philanthropy. Browse the spring collection and enjoy complimentary bites and bubbles. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Youth AIDs research.
Thursday, March 11 6-8 pm David Yurman Tysons Galleria
