I came upon this little waxing spot by word of mouth. Melissa Avila, an aesthetician with 13 years experience at posh salons, opened up her intimate studio two years ago. Located in a funky little duplex in the Roosevelt District, Avila has a full menu of waxing services. The digs are simple but comfortable. The studio is known for the variety of waxing options offered and its friendly neighborhood vibe (her waiting room is stocked with cookies, candies, and snacks).
By Kathy Schultz | July 12, 2006
This tiny gift shop is perfectly located in the heart of Madrona, right next to Verité -- the original home of Cupcake Royale, makers of those liberally frosted mini-cakes gaily topped with sprinkles. The charming storefront is just as enticing as the cupcakes, painted celadon green and festooned with flowers.
By Kathy Schultz | July 7, 2006
One of the best things about summer in Seattle is going to the farmers markets. I love the lively hustle and bustle of some of the larger, older markets, but one of my favorite newcomers is the Mad Cap Hill Farmers Market (a.k.a. the Madison Valley Market) on Madison Street and 20th Avenue. Mad Cap Hill (presumably so named due to the nebulous neighborhood boundaries between Madison Valley and Capitol Hill) is now in its second year and continues to grow. Every week I go, I find something new. The Friday afternoon market runs from 3 p.m. to 7p.m., which is perfect for choosing from the bounty of the Northwest for weekend meals.
By Kathy Schultz | July 5, 2006
If you're the type to carry everything but the kitchen sink in your handbag/tote/weekender, these bags are for you. Hardware handbags and accessories, by local designer Lori Naon, feature hardware-grade handles made from materials such as flexible stainless steel, braided vinyl, and hex nuts. They have industrial snaps, grommets and bodies made from nylon canvas (the same fabric as backpacks). These tough materials take a beating and seem to fend off every offense from rain to travel abuse.
By Kathy Schultz | June 30, 2006
Kathy Schultz Yee-haw! I was excited to mosey on down to Horseshoe's June 15 opening to rustle up some new duds. But seriously, I was delighted at the charming rustic country ambiance of the boutique and the casual, contemporary combination of denim, T's, tops, dresses, jewelry, and fancy belt...
By Kathy Schultz | June 27, 2006
Looking for a special ring for your special day? Check out local jewelry designer Jamie Joseph's distinctive wedding collection. These rings are for brides and grooms who want to say "I do" with unique wedding bands that go beyond commercial options.
By Kathy Schultz | June 23, 2006
Glam girls will flip over Bésame, an alluring line of cosmetics. Translated from Spanish, the name means "kiss me" — and indeed, these cosmetics could encourage amorous passion. The 1940s and 50s vintage-inspired line conjures up images of sexy women in full slips coyly applying layers of lipstick and touches of rouge at their vanity tables, finishing off with a pouf of the powder puff.
By Kathy Schultz | June 20, 2006
This Capitol Hill shop and gallery carries an eclectic variety of arts and crafts by local artists.
By Kathy Schultz | June 16, 2006
The book is a great primer for city slickers with tips on how to build fires (teepee or log cabin style?) using a variety of woods, and stoking finesse. For practiced firebugs there's a chapter on the origins and physics of fire itself. Wogan's quirky sense of humor and witty prose keeps the book interesting even when reading obligatory information on safety (Eight Ways to be Sure You Don't Headline the 11 o’clock News). The book is full of suggestions on how to enjoy your fire — how to whittle, tipple (drink), tell spooky stories (text provided), and the complete words to "Home on the Range."
By Kathy Schultz | June 14, 2006
BUMBLE B Bevin Farkas's eye for design, unique gift items, and appealing packaging makes gift giving a breeze. We've all bought (or received) gift baskets stuffed with more shredded paper than gifts, and after digging to the bottom found barely edible no-brand cookies, cheap trinkets, and unimaginative candles and...
By Kathy Schultz | June 9, 2006
