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February 1st, 2008
Sometimes we just love being a host in the Twin Cities. We had some girlfriends in town recently, and we partied the way only Minnesotans in the Twin Cities can, knocking back chocolate cake shots at Nye’s, ogling all the hotties (in the freezing cold) at the Pond Hockey Tournament, munching on fries at Barbette, taking advantage of no sales tax on stores on Grand Ave., and drinking and dancing to the music we drank and danced to in college at the Miami Bar. (Don’t even get us started on the uber-fun, uber-young after-party we attended—we forgot how partying has changed not at all over the years—the lack of toilet paper at this supercute—and supersingle—guy’s place being a prime example.) After all was said and done, as we headed to the airport with hangovers and good stories, and it was a consensus: The Twin Cities rock. It was exactly what our girlfriends needed, and exactly what we needed—a little pick-us-up in the doldrums of minus-degree highs and permanently grey days, and something to keep us going until spring arrives … and after-hour parties hopefully include a bathroom stocked with necessities. And don’t miss our fantastic announcement at the end of this issue: You asked, and we changed (which doesn’t happen all that often)… |
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Minneapolis Picks: |
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| 1 | A Valentine Pressed to Our Hearts We loved Valentine’s Day as a kid. The shoebox covered in foil and doilies, the fun of trying to figure out if our major crush had given us a dime-store Valentine, it was all a thrill. And when we walked into Luna Lux it felt like February in third grade all over again. The vintage-inspired Valentine cards and gifts, along with the creative vibe of the store/work space, had us longing for pinking shears and glitter. But since we aren’t so crafty anymore, instead we stocked up on letter-pressed, pre-made cards for our loved ones. (And of course we couldn’t pass up the old-school candy section by the register.) But Luna Lux isn’t just about V-day—they specialize in beautiful letter-pressed everything: business and calling cards, announcements of all types, personalized stationery and more. Printed in-house on their vintage letterpresses, it’s a one-of-a-kind way to make a lasting impression on anyone you meet. So make a statement this Valentine’s Day and give your special someone a special statement. And don’t miss their online blog—too cute, like their cards! Luna Lux |
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| 2 | Pirate’s Booty Every February we hope the 14th brings us the jewels of our dreams. A delicate bangle, fun earrings, a bold necklace… Instead we end up with a chocolate-and-canned-champagne hangover, “Valley of the Dolls” still in the DVD player. And no jewels. Well this year all that is changing, even if we have to pony up and treat ourselves. Key North, in Northeast Minneapolis, is a contemporary clothing store with an awesome line of body care products. But it is more, too—once you step inside you see the jewels. Ahhhh, the jewels. We love—repeat (and hint) LOVE—the turquoise and coral necklaces that scream warm weather/strapless beach dress/Bain de Soleil tan. We crave the delicate bangles with tiny subtle diamonds that are begging for short sleeves, and coincidentally, our wrists. And the table of affordable, brightly colored earrings and bangles got us punch drunk without the help of any punch. Stop by Key North this month and get yourself (or your better half) a warming gift of jewelry—and mention Minneapolis Picks and take 10% off any regularly priced item! Key North |
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| 3 | Fancy Footwork We’re city girls, and occasionally we’re forced to hoof it. Like when we’ve spent all our fun-money on Bellinis, and find ourselves with no cash for transportation. We dream of a parallel universe where snow is warm, and we can don gossamer five-inch heels year round. But in the icebox we call home, practicality sometimes reigns supreme. Thankfully we have Shu Global Footwear. This Grand Avenue hot spot is packed with a bevy of lust-worthy footwear options ranging from street-savvy kicks and practical clogs to the cool anti-classic Wellies by London Underground. We fell head-over-heels for the totally fierce riding boots by Born, and the ultra-hip Biviel boots that cleverly contain a hidden wedge. Both stand up stylishly to our harsh winters while at the same time exuding urban chic. So whether you’re looking for the edgy new UGGs or a pair of euro-chic Camper boots, look no further than Shu. It may not cure your Bellini hangover, but we’re confident you’ll find something to satisfy both your feet and your fashion-forward sense of style. Shu Global Footwear |
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| 4 | Shopping that Does Good We’ve always been plagued with shoppers regret. You know—when you go and buy another pair of black boots from a big-box store because they were on sale and your friends made you, but then you kinda feel bad afterwards? Well, that would be us. Good thing we don’t have to feel bad about anything we buy at Birch: All of their items are not only sustainable, but they only rep clothes and accessories that are fairly traded. With a focus on comfortable, casual and cute, you can’t go wrong with anything in the store, especially with uber-cool lines like Edun and Loomstate. But it was the purses that caught our eye: the bright, popping colors and unique designs (think totally chic bags made from recycled bottle tabs or candy wrappers) will get you compliments. So next time you even think of getting that Gucci knockoff, head off the inevitable regret—buy something unique and do some good while you’re at it! And to sweeten the deal, mention Minneapolis Picks during February and take 25% off one regularly priced item! Birch |
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| 5 | A Little Sumthin’ for Everyone We’ve been known to get our hate on when it comes to Valentine’s Day, but this year we won’t be sitting idly by, waiting for someone to gift us with a token of their affection. Instead we’ve decided to redefine Cupid’s big day by throwing some love to our BFFs, and what better place to do some inspired shopping than Patina? This homegrown gem is a gift-giving haven, loaded with all things lovely and alluring. Ranging from beautifully carved frames and custom-made jewelry to fanciful stemware and retro-cool lamps, around each corner of this delightful boutique you’ll find a new trinket or treasure that absolutely begs to be taken home. We fell hard for the heavenly scented Voluspa candles and the chic ceramic vases, both perfect house-warmers for our best pal’s new pad. So whether you’re in the market for skull-emblazoned dishes for your domestic diva friend, recycled coasters for the Green girl next door, or a killer leather bag for yourself, this Valentine’s Day you’re sure to find something for everyone you love at Patina. Patina |
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| Chick Picks: | |||
| 1 | Website of Earthly Delights We have only been to Portland, Oregon, once, but one of the things we loved best about the city was Flutter. This girly shop has everything from tiny, chirping songbirds in an oversized cage and ornate antique chandeliers to sewing-themed stationery, beautiful jewelry and gorgeous body care products. Hence our delight that you can now shop the store online! And while the internet is no substitute for the real thing, their enchanting site is as cute and close as you can get to the store—don’t miss it! |
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| 2 | Daily Do-Yourself-Goodery We try to do something nice for someone every day. But often we find that nobody does anything nice for us. We’re humongous martyrs—we give and give and get nothing in return. Which is why Vital Juice Daily.com is so rewarding—it’s entertaining and uplifting, and gives us the daily info we need to take care of ourselves. From fitness to healing, nutrition to beauty, “Do Good” and “Green Living,” we always feel a little more pampered when we get the Juice. |
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| 3 | Baby on Board If you are a mom-to-be, new mom, or FOANM (Friend of a New Mom) head over to Ringo Baby. Adorable photo birth announcements are so not the typical pink or blue, but hip, modern and colorful, just like today’s hip mamas. Choose from traditional cards or up the ante and send out a baby bookmark or magnet—keepsakes that will actually get some mileage. So whether you’re throwing a baby shower or popping out a little one of your own, Ringo Baby has your baby covered! |
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| 4 | A Wet (Pur)Suit It may be freezing here, but we all know swimsuit season is just around the corner. And trying on ill-fitting not-at-all-flattering bikinis under awful fluorescent lighting last year turned us off—but turned us on to the beauty of a nicely fitted, appropriate one-piece that is still kitschy and cool. Popina’s retro-inspired swimsuits are grown-up in a good way: They artfully hide and tuck our problem areas while inspiring sexy pinup girl poses—perfect for any time of year, we think! |
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| 5 | Hammer Time Sometimes on lonely Friday nights we like to do a “re”—recover a chair, reorganize our closets, restyle that forgotten clothing item. (A good bottle of red makes all this that much more fun—trust us!) So while we were sad to hear that Blueprint Magazine was kaput, we are ecstatic that the blog lives on. We love the affordable and creative ideas for the home—a perfect little jolt of can-do for small winter projects. Bookmark it today and get creating, ladies! |
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Hip Happenings: |
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| 1 | Mardi Gras Minni Style If “flashing for beads” is not your style (or, something you did, like, 10 years ago, hello), then head over to Barbette to celebrate Mardi Gras in a more grown up but still fun fashion. Their Prix Fixe Mardi Gras menu is sure to please and we promise—no one will be yelling “bam!” What: Prix Fixe Mardi Gras Menu |
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| 3 | Not So Cheap Date Night Actually it’s still pretty cheap, especially for a Valentine’s Day dinner. Enjoy food, booze and bowling in the fine style the only Bryant Lake Bowl can offer this Valentine’s Day. Perfect for those of us who want our romance with a side of balls. Hmm, did we really just say that? What: Not So Cheap Date Night |
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| 4 | Urban Junket Sale Wipe away the winter blues and treat yourself to a luxurious new leather handbag—for cheaps! The semi-annual sample sale is here, so mark your calendars to snap up the beautiful, unique Italian leather bags at deeply discounted prices—we’re talking 40-75% off deeply discounted. Can we say hoorah?!? What: Urban Junket Sample Sale |
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| 5 | Men in Drag Just when you thought the couture shows were over, Minneapolis’ own runway event featuring men in women’s threads is here. There is something very satisfying about watching a guy try to maneuver in high heels, especially if you were sitting at home on Valentine’s Day eating cookie dough out of the tube, too. What: Drag Style II |
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Dear readers—you asked, and we heard. And we thought, and we acted. Mark your calendars, forward to your friends, holler from the rooftops, drunk-dial your exes, let your dogs pee it in the snow, just make sure everyone knows that MINNEAPOLIS PICKS IS GOING WEEKLY IN MARCH! Now flowers and warmer temps aren’t the only thing to look forward to! |
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