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May 22nd, 2009
Each year after our first foray to the local Farmer’s Market we find ourselves completely convinced that we can suddenly become some sort of gardener extraordinaire. We’re not sure if it’s the fresh air, the plethora of plant life waiting to be nurtured, or the heady aromas wafting from the various snack vendors, but we always find ourselves snatching up everything from baskets of cucumbers to showy flowers, vowing that we’re going to grow our own from here on out. But it’s not until we’re knee-deep in compost and outfitted in our Dickey bibs, garden crocs, and straw hats that we snap out of it and remember that not only are we about to mar a thirty-dollar mani, but that in reality we’re more deal-diggers than dirt-diggers. Oh well… it takes all types to make the world go round. |
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Minneapolis Picks: |
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| 1 | The Ultimate Underpinnings If we had our druthers (as our grandpa used to say), we’d stay in our pajamas 24/7. Not only would it cut down on morning prep time, but we’d always be at the ready for a quick, delicious nap. But the more we think about it, if we were to make that lifestyle choice, the beat up t-shirt-and-boxers combo just wouldn’t cut it. Perma-lounging is an investment, and we know that cozy suburban haven Polly Berg can hook us up with the kind of nightwear we’d happily live in. This chic boutique has everything we crave, from luxe bed linens to the loveliest of nighties, and their ultra-high quality means that they’re guaranteed to last practically forever. We love the celeb-centric BeadHead pajamas as well as their elegant wedding-night peignoirs (meow!), and the thousand thread-count sheets have us wanting to take up permanent residence in our bed. Polly Berg also stocks plenty of gift goods, like the multi-pocket travel cosmetic bags (a fave of staff and customers), bath mats, and scented soaps, making it perfect for body and abode. Polly Berg |
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| 2 | Scandinavian Chic Growing up as a city chick trapped in a small-town girl’s body, we couldn’t wait to ditch the sticks. Our parents were keen on our plans to fly the coop, often reminding us that we can have both roots and wings. Since then we have been trying to tread that fine line—from where we live to how we decorate our apartment. Luckily, Norsemen (and women) are known for adding traditional touches to contemporary decor, and Nordic Home Interiors is no exception. With a chief selection of sleek and unique Scandinavian furnishings and Viking-like zeal, their expert designers introduced us to plush hand-knotted rugs from their own factory in Nepal and exclusive retro appliances by Big Chill (love the name) that would make our kitchen pop. Best of all, their comfy yet classy Norwegian leather recliners finally let us give the ol’ heave-ho to our hubby’s obtrusive (read: duct-taped) LaZBoy. Mod items with historic treasure to boot? Talk about the best of both worlds! Nordic Home Interiors |
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| 3 | Cooqi Monsters There was a brief time after college when we lived in Los Angeles, the land of “free” foods. As in—foods free of sugar, salt, wheat, fat, carbs, and quite frankly taste, texture and satisfaction. We were not sold. But fast-forward a few years, and we find ourselves gladly choosing “free” foods that are good for us, but only if they taste delicious. While we aren’t on a gluten-free diet, you would never know considering our obsession with Cooqi. All the goodies here are gluten free and taste good! We first started going for their lemon bars, which put organic ingredients to use. This quickly expanded into brownies (we recommend the outrageous brownies with nuts), donuts (any of them!) and breads (yes, this is the place to satisfy any craving). Their gluten-free pizza crust is even being used around town at local pizzerias, it’s just that yummy. So next time you are craving sweets, need some desserts for picky eaters, or simply want healthy baked goods yet have no patience for a Los Angeles attitude, stop by and grab one… or a dozen! Cooqi Gluten-Free Delights |
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| Chick Picks: | |||
| 1 | That’s A Wrap When it comes to gifts, to us it’s not just the thought that counts, but also what said thoughtfulness is wrapped up in, so we always hit Kate’s Paperie for stylish outers that are as lust-worthy as the giveables themselves. This lovely paper haven is loaded with the hippest selection of gift wrap we’ve ever seen, with punchy prints sporting everything from flowers to pop-culture references. They also offer a bevy of cool gift tags, albums, and other paper-oriented goodies, making them paper perfection! |
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| 2 | Va-Va-Va-Vintage We’ve been trying our darnedest to stretch our dollars lately. Not wanting to resort to repurposing our panty hose, we decided to save a little green by injecting our wardrobes with some vintage finds at affordable prices. Enter Abracadabra Vintage, a sweet little Etsy purveyor that specializes in retro threads for the modern gal. We love their chic Oriental-style jacket, and their leather boots take cowboy-cool to a whole new level. An added bonus? They’re local, baby. |
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| 3 | Make the Postman Blush One should never underestimate the pick-me-up power of getting a surprise delivery in the mail. An unexpected “Thinking of You” card or little treat from a friend makes our whole day. So naturally, we find the idea of Panty by Post brilliant. Get a monthly subscription of decadent French panties by Blush in the mail—once, six times, or every month for a year—your choice! A great gift for brides-to-be who have everything, including a crock pot already. |
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Hip Happenings: |
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| 1 | Get Crafty Show our local handmaidens some love by shopping Crafted Together. A slew of talented artists, designers, and crafters will be setting up shop in downtown White Bear Lake, offering up tons of handmade goods that are sure to please… making this an indie-dream-scene/can’t miss for people who crave one-of-a-kind style! What: Crafted Together |
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| 2 | Be a Kid Again Grab your favorite young person and embrace your inner child at the Flint Hills International Children’s Festival. This kid-centric classic once again promises to dish up a serious dose of fun and frivolity with plays, dancing, crafts, and magical mayhem along with a variety of other tot-pleasing activities that shouldn’t be missed. What: The Flint Hills International children’s Festival |
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| 3 | Red-Hot Art Mark your calendars now for the Red Hot Art Festival. This artistic endeavor proudly showcases a slew of ultra-talented local artists who shine in the areas of jewelry, photography, ceramics, and more. Plus there will be 30 different musical acts on hand for your auditory delight, as well as a delish food by local eateries. What: 2009 Annual Red Hot Art Festival |
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Ahhh, summer in Minnesota. Cocktailing on the patio, sunny, lakeside strolls, and outdoor festivals a-plenty. It’s the stuff dreams are made of, people, so get out there and shop, dine, and do like you mean it. While you’re out there having fun, make sure to tell your friends to sign up for www.MinneapolisPicks.com so they’re as in the know as you are! |
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