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June 20th, 2008
When we were in college we happily played hostess to every major (and minor) pseudo-holiday bash. Halloween, V-Day, Cinco de Mayo, Veterans Day, we had it covered. Of course in those days we just bought some plastic cups at the Gas-n-Sip and picked up an eight gallon of Summit, but now we hold ourselves to a higher standard. We want cocktails. (Okay, beer too.) We want crostini—not Doritos, and we want to send out invites that are just the right mix of edgy and elegant, as opposed to our former mode of calling one party pal and saying, “Dude, spread the word… party at the H.O.P.” (And no, we’re not telling you what that stood for.) Thankfully we scored a copy of Tastebud’s Classic Cocktail Party CD to help us prepare for our next hip (and grown-up) get-together. Do you love a swank soiree? Forward this issue to 5 friends and cc picks@minneapolispicks.com and you could win your own copy of Tastebud’s Classic Cocktail Party CD! |
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Minneapolis Picks: |
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| 1 | Love, Italian Style |
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| 2 | Making Mouths Happy Some of our girlfriends have become moms over the last few years and that sometimes makes us babysitters. While we’re happy to lend a hand, we admit we’re usually more prepared to host a Sopranos viewing party than a Star Wars-themed sleepover. Our single-gal fridge is well stocked with fresh espresso beans, French cheese, and SmartWater; hardly a meal fit for a toddler, but luckily we don’t live far from Snap! Pizza & Ice Cream. This irresistible Northeast eatery dishes up the good stuff—from ultra-tasty pizza (New York-style, baby) to delish salads and ice cream, making it the ideal go-to for grownups and kids alike. Now our underage overnight guests can load up on all the pizza they want while we get down with the toasted hot hoagies—all prepared with fresh veggies and homemade sauces. Of course we always save room for dessert at Snap!, and we’ve found that devouring a double-chocolate cherry sundae, mega butterscotch malt, or super-size banana split induces less caloric guilt when we’re sharing it with our favorite pint-sized pal. Snap! Pizza and Ice Cream |
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| 3 | Avoid the Granny Panty |
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| Chick Picks: | |||
| 1 | Little Paper Dreams Once, in a fit of idealism, we enrolled in a paper-making class. We harbored grandiose visions of creating sophisticated note cards. What we left with was something resembling a flattened spit-ball. Now we shop RedStamp.com. Stocked with a compelling selection of chic note cards, invites, gift wrap, and desk goodies, this local online retailer embodies the modern vibe we crave. Bonus: Shop now and receive 15% off invites with the purchase of the Tastebud Classic Cocktail CD, exclusively at Red Stamp! |
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| 2 | Get-Fit Style Getting fit is perpetually on our to-do list, so we always try to look our best to counteract the whole sweating she-beast thing. We buy perfectly flared yoga pants and we own an array of tops, jackets, and wraps that masterfully mix for maximum style. Now even our sticky mat has something ultra-cute to cozy up in—the eye-popping yoga bag by Orla Kiely. Slung over your shoulder, it’s sure to make you the envy of the gym! |
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| 3 | We Love Presents We love a kitschy gift purveyor who isn’t afraid to stock on-par goodies that are anti-big-box, so we darn near did back flips when we found Presents of Mind. This Portland retailer boasts an array of fun and funky items, from cool baby goods and bath products to handbags and jewelry. The only problem? Choosing between the sexy flashcards for an upcoming bachelorette party and the playfully fresh onesies for our friend’s new baby. (Hmm…) |
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Hip Happenings: |
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| 1 | Party in Paradise Grab your tiki torches and hit poor man’s paradise for the Big Blowout II sponsored by PBR. (We’re talkin’ the Blue Ribbon, people.) The event features tasty apps and even tastier drinks, along with live music and the exceptional interactive art of visual gurus like Anthem heart and Media 2017. What: The Big Blowout: Phase II |
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| 2 | Pamper Yourself Grab your BFFs for a fabulous afternoon of indulgence at Tranquil Moments, courtesy of local businesswomen in the fashion and beauty industry. Cool clothing, unique accessories, complimentary makeovers, and oh-so-relaxing massages make this girls’ day out a must! Bonus: wine, hors d’ouevres, and a free gift with every purchase! What: An Afternoon of Indulgence |
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| 3 | Life Through the Lens Get thee to the Minneapolis Institute of Arts to experience the brilliant work of American photographer Lee Friedlander. Well known for his portraits, landscapes, and depictions of main-street America, this exhibit masterfully captures his prolific career with images that quietly embody the subtleties and richness of life. What: Friedlander: Photography |
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Great shopping surrounds us! Go forth and be saucy, and don’t forget to tell your friends to sign up for Minneapolis Picks. xoxo |
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