You may feel a lot like a not-for-profit organization these days -- keeping a wary eye on expenditures and praying for revenue. And just like you, many of our local arts, culture and nonprofit establishments are struggling to stay afloat. Where we spend our pennies is one of the most influential decisions we make, so why not create a stimulus bill of your own with a purchase that has a refreshing payback? Buy cool stuff online, and you'll be supporting local organizations that make a difference.
By Sheryl Wiser | February 27, 2009
What do two smart women have in common? One very good idea that's a boon to your budget, not to mention your living room. Sara Eizen of Nest and Piper Lauri Salogga of Natural Balance Home & Office, Seattle interior designers devoted to sustainable lifestyles, are the brains behind the Sit+Sip Accessories Swap, which takes place March 7 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Youngstown Cultural Arts Center in West Seattle.
By Sheryl Wiser | March 4, 2009
Your hair may be your thing, but is it worth $200? That's what you'll spend with a certain someone (no names, please) at one of Seattle's upper-tier salons. On the other hand, I'm not a barbershop (no matter how hip) kind of gal. Fortunately, the best of both worlds can be found in Seattle, at reputable, stylish salons that are committed to offering affordable services.
By Sheryl Wiser | March 9, 2009
I've been craving a
Boodlebag ever since I spied one dangling from the wrist of a friend. Her smart
little blue and brown diamond-patterned "wristlet" was perfect for small
essentials. While I fished around in my oversized purse for cash, she whipped
out a credit card and paid for lunch. I learned that
Boodlebags are the creation of two local moms, Angela Anderson and Renee Lico.
By Sheryl Wiser | March 19, 2009
Whether you're
working less or just escaping more, curling up with a good book is a pleasure
that not even a bad economy can diminish. A book is a relatively inexpensive
treat, and Seattle
is filled with new and used bookstores that provide both a great selection and
a peaceful ambiance.
By Sheryl Wiser | March 25, 2009
Seattle is chock-full of wine
shops that regularly offer in-store tastings, allowing you to sample unfamiliar
wines before you buy them and saving you the expense of a wine you might not
like. Below
are three such wine stores near my north-end neighborhood, all of which
offer
weekly tastings, a great selection, some truly crazy bargains and loads
of hospitality. When I visited, I didn't find a single wine snob --
just great wine and happy customers.
By Sheryl Wiser | March 30, 2009
One cool idea for a hot
planet (as in climate change) involves riding a bike, which cuts emissions, saves
money and produces buff calves. But first, you need the bike and second, you
need one you can afford. Bike
Works in Columbia City likes getting people in the saddle.
By Sheryl Wiser | April 6, 2009
Until she ties the knot this June, bride-to-be Mara
Liston will be engaged to her Be Wed guide, a smartly organized, eco-friendly
wedding planner designed by longtime friends and local graphic designers Jenna
Ashley and Kathleen Koeneman.
By Sheryl Wiser | April 17, 2009
There's a first time for everything,
even if it takes 76 years. Gregg's Cycle, which opened in 1932, is holding its
first-ever storewide sale April 24 through May 3. The aptly named "Have
Some Fun Sale" will take place at all three Gregg's locations:
Greenlake, Bellevue and Lynnwood.
By Sheryl Wiser | April 23, 2009
Whether you're a master gardener, an enthusiastic
novice or somewhere in between the two on the green thumb continuum, check out
Seattle Tilth's Edible Plant Sale,
May 2 and 3 at Wallingford's Meridian Park.
By Sheryl Wiser | April 30, 2009
