FRIDAY FINDS: WM PHOENIX OPEN & SUPERBOWL

This post is a bit early due to the upcoming events...or late..however you want to look at it?! 

The weather has cooled down, the champagne is iced, and our outfits are picked out. Yup, the WM Phoenix Open is upon us and us Arizonan's are ready to embrace it with a big fat hug. However, not only will Tiger Woods make an appearance this Phoenix Open we also have the Superbowl in our fine ass state. This weekend has been one that many of us have been preparing for. I barley ate Christmas cookies because we all knew that those extra pounds wouldn't look good in my WM Phoenix Open outfit, like duh. So hold onto your chonies this weekend because the festivities are endless and it could get a little cray.

Tiger makes a come back, Drake will be performing at the W, and PUPPIES. Yes you heard me. PUPPIES. Freaking puppies will be taking over downtown Phoenix and I couldn't help but pee a little bit in excitement.  I put together a quick little list of some events that are worth your time and $$.

Verizon Super Bowl Central // Free and family friendly for those with little babes. Located in Downtown Phoenix, there will be many activities such as live music and a rock wall. The NFL Experience is also located Downtown and Bud Light's House of Whatever. 

Maya // Big Sean, Tiesto, & Kaskade - Oh My-A! Maya Nightclub in Old Town Scottsdale has a jammed packed schedule this weekend and each headliner will not disappoint.

WM Phoenix Open // This annual event held at the TPC Scottsdale is the only golf event that you will ever catch me at. Tiger is making an appearance this year so just another reason to day drink while pretending to be interested in golf. The Birds Nest is the Phoenix Open's concert throughout the weekend and I've heard it's always a good time. 

DirectTV Super Fan Fest // Imagine Dragons, Calvin Harris, & Snoop Dogg are just a few of the performers who will be playing in Glendale, AZ. Tickets are available here. 

So, start saving those pennies for Uber rides, you're gonna need it.

FRIDAY FINDS: THE YARD AT FARMER ARTS DISTRICT

When I heard months ago that Fox Restaurant Concepts (FRC) was opening their new restaurant in Tempe, I was giddy but a little sad. Their new concept on Farmer was just STEPS away from my old Tempe condo. Soo... you're telling me if I stayed a little bit longer I would be able to hop, skip, and jump myself into fluffy pretzel bites and oozy gooey melted cheese!?!  You may sniff out a little bitterness but I can't help it, I'm jealous. If you're from the Phoenix area and haven't heard of Fox Concepts, I'm here to welcome you to a whole new line of restaurants. These concepts will give you a great excuse to skip the grocery store next week. And if you aren't from the Phoenix area, don't worry..they have a few restaurants out of state.

Photo courtesy of Fox Restaurant Concepts

Culinary Dropout in the Farmer Arts District is FRC's newest creation that recently opened in early December. Besides the phenomenal food and tasty cocktails the one thing that Fox does right every single time is the decor and Culinary Dropout is no exception. They provide a sense of warmth that draws the patron in and makes them feel at home. The Yard on Farmer is FRC's largest concept to date and has their largest kitchen. Once a furniture showroom this space is now filled with games, a stage for live music, and of course food and drink that satisfies any foodie.

Also in the district there is a ballroom called the Showcase Room. Here you can have a wedding reception, birthday party, private event and food catered by your favorite Fox Concept. Brandon and I may or may not be having our wedding reception here in November. ;)  Also, there are other retailers such as the Madison Improvement Club (my fav!) and Over Easy. Over Easy is set to open in a couple of months and is a favorite for breakfast connoisseurs.

Photo courtesy of Fox Restaurant Concepts

Inside The Coop

^The Coop: Additional seating but also a perfect place to host a private party. 

So if you didn't have weekend plans yet, I've got you covered. Catch a spin class at Madison then grab lunch, drinks, and some games at the Yard. If your dining at any of the Culinary Dropout locations I recommend the pretzels, fried chicken, and any of their specialty cocktails. 

xx

FRIDAY FINDS // 5two3 GRAND OPENING

// All images from 5two3 //

When a sorority sister of mine told me that she was opening her own clothing/accessory line I couldn't be more excited for her. Just a few short years later, Brittany and her co-founder announced that they will be opening a store front in Old Town Scottsdale. 5two3 headbands and pants are made for the woman who wants to feel sexy and fun. A portion of their proceeds go to women in repressed countries who are starting their own apparel businesses. 5two3 is having their grand opening tonight in Old Town from 5-8 p.m. This event will be fun and a perfect excuse to sip on some champs & shop. Come help support my girlfriend and their local Arizona business! xx 

5two3

6957 E. 5th Ave

Scottsdale, AZ 85281

BOWW LOVES PORTLAND

Nikes // Leggings // Sweater // Purse

Brace yourself, this is long...

I'm pretty sure the earth started to shake when I was running at the gym today. Yup, you can tell that I had a good time in Portland last weekend.  Portland surprised me because it wasn't what I was expecting. But really, I didn't know what to expect. A bunch of hipsters walking around drinking coffee? ...Okay, ya I saw that. I even saw a whole store just for men's underwear. A WHOLE store?! 

I did a bit of research before we arrived in Portland from friends and other bloggers so I had an idea where we wanted to go. We stayed at the Hotel Monaco which was awesome. The decor is unique, they are pet friendly, and even have a free wine hour (come to mamma). Our hotel also had a free rental bike program which helped us bop around the city. 

If you're in Portland, check these out: 

Vooodoo Doughnuts // This is a must in Portland but be ready to wait in line. Also, there is a homeless shelter near by so there are a lot of homeless people around the shop.

Bijou Cafe // This is located near Voodoo Doughnuts and it is amazing. There will be a wait on the weekends, but its worth it. Fresh ingredients & the best biscuits & gravy I've ever had.... (queue the drool from my mouth)

Imperial // Located in downtown, we stumbled in here for breakfast one day. The corn cakes were so yummy it's silly.

Salt & Straw // All I have to say is that I am very upset that there isn't a location in Arizona. --You need to try this, enough said.

Ace Hotel // Shown in the photos above. A funky boutique hotel that is a must to see. People are lounging drinking their coffee and reading the paper. Also, there is a photobooth located in the lobby of the hotel that is a perfect excuse to take funny photos.

Stumptown Coffee // Portland has great coffee but this is the signature brew that you shouldn't miss. They have locations throughout the city but we stopped by the one right next to the Ace Hotel. 

Zenny & Zuke's // This is located right down the block from the Ace Hotel. We were hangry the morning we stopped by the Ace Hotel and we picked this place on a whim. The fresh ingredients didn't disappoint and I would love to come here again. 

Portland City Grill // This has a great view of the city! We stopped in here Friday afternoon for drinks and appz.

Deschutes Brewery // My dad loves their beer so we were happy to find out that they are located in Portland. Also, their food is pretty tasty and pairs perfectly with their brews.

Yo Vintage // Just one of the cute vintage shops we stumbled upon on Burnside St.

Henry's Tavern // A perfect spot to grab great lunch and watch Sunday football.

Imogene + Willie // Denim lovers haven.

Tanner Goods // Not quite like Jimmy Fallon's leeeattthherman but it's pretty good. ;)

Also, every where we had breakfast was amazzing. I couldn't get over the food...hence the earth shaking when I got back home. I would recommend anyone to head to Portland for a weekend getaway. It's a perfect excuse to eat, drink, and create memories. 

FRIDAY FINDS // HALLOWEEN

HAPPY HALLOWEEN Bo0o0o0WwwW-utiful babes. So, did you decide to dress up? Or are you planning to stay in and pass out candy?! There are tons of events going on around Phoenix so I thought I would give you some ideas on what the heck to do tonight. If you haven't already made up your mind, don't you worry-I've got ya covered. Notice, they're no scary movies on this list because well, I don't like them and so I'm not going to encourage watching them...case closed. 

1 // Halloween Haunted Hotel Ball -- There will be three different rooms set up in the hotel playing different types of music, so you can pop around and mix up your night all in one location. Also, the party continues on Saturday at the pool! Woo! I would recommend staying at the hotel and making a weekend of it.

2 // Crescent ballroom -- This is the best venue in downtown Phoenix and they have a Halloween bash every year! It's only 5 bucks but you must be wearing a costume. So throw on a suit and some kitten ears and be a #uberkitten, but don't forget to bring some water to pass out.  

3 // Pass out candy -- Don't be scrooge this Halloween and lock all your doors and turn off the lights. (BOOO) If you don't have decorations set up, don't worry-- the kids won't mind. Grab some candy and pizza and wine for yourself and call it a night. 

4 // Dance your pants off -- Brew up some holiday cocktails & dance to the monster mash. #ITWASTHEMASH 

Whatever you do, be safe. Things could get dangerous even if you stay in because those dance moves can get a little scary. 

Stay connected with me this weekend on Instagram, & have a fab weekend! xoxo 

FRIDAY FINDS // PHOENIX EVENTS

If you live in Phoenix, it is no secret that October tends to be the month that is jammed packed with events. I feel like every weekend there is something to do! I just wished there were more Saturdays in October. Pumpkin patches, weddings, festivals, and local events start to take over my calendar in the fall. However, what do you expect? The weather is finally bearable therefore, we have to take advantage!

Today, I wanted to share with you two of my favorite events coming up this weekend, the Arizona Taco Festival and Pineapple Triangles, AZ Share That You Care event.

First, let's talk tacos. I love tacos. Beef tacos, chicken tacos, pork tacos, veggies tacos... you know name it and I'll probably want it in my belly. Brandon and I make tacos at home at least once a week. They are simple and easy to throw together yet, you can get really creative with them. Full disclosure, I have never attended the festival yet, it sounds blissful. My favorite foods groups are tacos, chips, and margs so this festival just speaks to me. So if you are looking for something different and not too expensive (only $2 tacos!) than you need to head over to the Arizona Taco Festival this weekend. 

Second, another one of my favorite events is put together from the ladies of Pineapple Triangle. Remember when I went to their event earlier this year? Well, they are throwing a bigger event this Saturday. The ladies of Pineapple Triangle are committed to bring local artists and the community together in their AZ Share That You Care event. A portion of the proceeds go to the local artists choice therefore you can shop and help out some great causes! This will be a perfect October Saturday because there will be live music, a food truck, and shopping. Be sure to check out this lovely event and help support our local artists. 

Hope you have a wonderful weekend and thanks for reading! xxoo

FRIDAY FINDS // PEPPER

My family and I spend every Sunday morning having breakfast at The Breakfast Club in Old Town Scottsdale. Most of the time Brandon and I drag our butts out of bed and drive down there with our minds still hazy from the night before. 8 a.m. on a Sunday morning is just early and sometimes it feels like it should be illegal. However, on the rare occasion that we are feeling chipper and overly caffeinated I tend to pay more attention to my surrounds. A couple of weeks ago on one of these Sunday morning drives, we passed a little boutique called Pepper. I asked Brandon, "Pepper? Do you know anything about that place?" Brandon shook is head, and I couldn't help but begin to feel giddy and excited. 

Did I just see a Show Me Your Mumu sign on the outside of that place? And a cute little bicycle? Yup, yes you did Martha. 

So a few google searches and emails later, I was at the store meeting owner Cathy. Let's just start out by saying, Cathy is a badass. She has her masters in psychology so she is a therapist, runs the store, and helps her mom through chemo. Despite having so much on her plate she seems to have a good team helping her out because the store is fantastic. Pepper (named after her dog) is the store that Arizona was craving. They have good quality clothing at reasonable prices. The vibe is boho, "California cool," and casual and I'm not mad about it. You can tell that Cathy's past work experiences from Nordstrom, Free People, and Rachel Pally have helped Pepper come to fruition. Besides the awesome clothing at awesome prices, Cathy told me that her and her team really try to buy items that are made domestically, ethically, and/or made with a purpose. She said it isn't always plausible with their targeted price point but they try their best. --Horraryy! Also, besides clothing they have local honey (yum) that is made just a couple of miles from the store. Even the wall art is made by a local artist and is for sale. 

To put a cherry on top of this sundae Pepper is having a Girl's Night Out event this Saturday from 4 pm - 6 pm. Free blowouts, gift with purchase, a food truck, and a juice bar...okay do I need to say more?

I hope you have a great weekend, and head over to Pepper for some great shopping! 

Thanks for reading, xoxo

FRIDAY FINDS // ALTUZARRA FOR TARGET

Preview the collection here

I'm a sucker for Target and designer collaborations because it allows us common people to have a taste of luxury. Joseph Altuzarra is a young designer in his early-30's who seems to dress women in their 30's and beyond. Although I find most of his pieces too sophisticated for my palette, I found some favorite pieces from his collection with Target. I love the fur vest, trench coat, ankle booties, pajama set, and the maxi dresses. The energy and excitement of a collection launch is enough to get out of bed on a foggy Sunday morning. So grab your girlfriend, mom, boyfriend, or even the homeless guy down the street because you're going to need extra hands (or elbows) and head to your local Target this Sunday, September 14th. Check online to find out if your local Target carries the collection and get there early! 
Have a great weekend, thanks for stopping by. 
xxoo

FRIDAY FINDS: THE STAND

Burgers & Tacos??! Two of my favorite food groups collide in this weeks Friday Find. My brother John lives just across the street from The Stand and has been raving about it ever since he moved in. The Stand Burgers & Tacos is located near 36th St & Indian School Rd in Acardia. Don't be fooled by the Drive Thru because this isn't your ordinary take out restaurant, they don't skimp on fresh real ingredients. Eva, the owner and founder, strives to serve high quality food at a quick rate. The idea behind The Stand was Eva's heritage because she wanted to blend her Mexican and Russian Jewish backgrounds together. She created a simple and affordable menu to appeal to just about anybody. When my family and I got the chance to finally try The Stand, I must say my brother was right, the food was delicious. We ordered a burger, fries, fresh lemonade, chips & salsa, and tacos! The only items we missed were the guacamole and milkshake, but there is always next time. :)

I was lucky enough to get in contact with the owner Eva and ask her a few questions regarding The Stand. Take note, because she is right about the pickles! We didn't order extra and left with a little regret that we didn't seize the opportunity. 

Boww: What has been the biggest struggle starting your own business? What has been the biggest reward? 

Eva: It's not really a struggle if you love what you do. It's challenging but if your an entrepreneur your also an expert creative problem solver. You have no choice. The quote at the bottom by Danny Meyer really sums it up for me. I live by it and am tested to live up to it everyday I own my own business. 

"Success lies not in the elimination of problems but in the art of creative, profitable problem solving." - Danny Meyer 

The biggest reward is providing something positive to this community and the response that my little place has gotten. It's astounding to me. Everyday I'm surprised and humbled that people grace me with their patronage. I feel so lucky that this community had embraced what I have to offer. I work so hard at what I do and I hope that everyday in some way my business is a reflection of that.  

Boww: If you were to order one thing on The Stand's menu, what would it be?

Eva: If I were to order one thing it would be a Burger with extra cheese, extra pickles(because it took me forever to find the right pickles and my pickles ROCK!) thick cut bacon, caramelized onion, tomato, lettuce and Stand sauce on a gluten-free bun because I have Celiac's disease. By the way, if desired, my entire menu is available as a gluten free option. Top to bottom! 

Soo....What will you be doing this holiday weekend? They are closed on Monday in observance of Labor Day so make sure you catch them before then! Enjoy :) 

FRIDAY FINDS: GROWOP

Image a vintage or thrift shop that has all the perfect hidden gems already picked out? No rummaging through all the stuff you wouldn't consider wearing, GrowOp has them picked out for you. GrowOp is a clothing store tucked away in downtown Phoenix on Roosevelt Row. Every piece of clothing or jewelry is either handmade or found. They have different vintage vendors who sell within the store giving you as a consumer a variety of styles to choose from. Just like this local boutique, most jewelry pieces you find within the store are homemade locally in Arizona and picked out by the owners.
I was surprised to find that the boutique also has a community garden in front of the store. If you happen to live in an apartment or small home and don't have space to grow your own produce, the community garden might just be the place for you.

Be sure to check out GrowOp on Roosevelt Row in Downtown Phoenix and make a night of it by stopping by The Lost Leaf for a drink.
xxo Have a great weekend Boww babes. 

FRIDAY FINDS: SIP COFFEE & BEER HOUSE

 ^^ 90's music Bingo! ^^

^^ so cute outside ^^

What are you doing this weekend?! Nothing?? Okay great, so you can get your booty over to this hot spot in Scottsdale. 

Sip Coffee & Beer House opened in March this year and has been firing people up with coffee and beer ever since. When you travel north into Old Town Scottsdale this gem is one of the first places you see as you enter. Sip Coffee & Beer House is a dream come true for owner, Travis and his wife. I met Travis yesterday afternoon and he was nice enough to go over their concept for the place. They wanted to keep as much as the original building as possible leaving the floors and exposed ceiling. The space used to be a yarn and craft store therefore the owners left details of yarn throughout the place. Travis and his wife decorated the space with pieces from Arizona yard sales and antique shops. Their goal was to keep everything local and sustainable. 

When my girlfriend Stacey and I sat down with our Whiskey Mules (yumm) we were immediately greeted by DJ's to play music BINGO. The BINGO hosts were funny and it was a surprise to our casual Thursday happy hour. Although they do offer food, both of us ate prior to our visit so we didn't get a chance to try it out. I've tried many places for happy hour and this is by far my favorite. There are people working, catching up, or even playing with their dogs on the patio. Whether you are looking for your next coffee shop or brew house Sip is a place to come day or night. Sip is just another example why I love Arizona and supporting local business. 

Come on in & have a Sip! 

FRIDAY FINDS: THE SAGUARO

^^ Our boy Frank came to play with us ^^

A couple of weeks ago we had a staycation at The Saguaro Hotel in Old Town Scottsdale.  I have driven past this hotel multiple times and I have always wanted to step inside. The colors of the hotel are vibrant and would help put a smile on anyones face. We checked in on Saturday and hung by the pool the rest of the afternoon. 
They have a full service bar at the pool where you can order lunch and drinks. This isn't your fist pumpin', body rockin', bass jumpin' pool but there was a decent size crowd to make for a pleasant afternoon. This was a perfect balance to transition right into happy hour at the hotel's restaurant, Distrito. Distrito is a modern Mexican restaurant that serves classic Mexican but also has a full range of flavorful cuisine dishes that will surprise you. 

After happy hour we headed back to our room to get ready for a night on the town.  The location of the hotel is in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale next to the bars, clubs and fun nightlife.

I've never lived in Scottsdale but I have lived in downtown Tempe which is a short drive. I have friends who live close by and have spent many nights down in Old Town. Although I've spent time in the area, nothing beats spending the evening at The Saguaro. We didn't get a chance to enjoy the spa so I'm going to stop by to get a facial one of these days. Even if you are from the area or are from out of town, head over to The Saguaro for great amenities, a good time, and a fantastic location. 

Hope you have a wonderful weekend! Thanks for stopping by.
xoxo  

FRIDAY FINDS: HOME

Image source

Todays Friday Finds is a wee bit different than my others. 

Throughout all of our travels to Austin, Denver, California and beyond I always look forward to come home. One year ago, Brandon and I moved into our home and we haven't done much decorating. It took us a couple of months to realize that all of our extra money was going to traveling. We have been gone almost every month to different cities.

Home is a where memories happen: Good, bad, ugly, and happy. For example, as I'm trying to write this Alayna, Brandon's daughter, is dancing around with excitement just because we are about to munch on some cherries. The girl is running around like her pants are on fire because of these cherries! It is these simple things that make this house our home. I CHERRish (get it?!) these moments as I get to watch her grow up, learn, and do a dance or two.

Last week we threw a party for a couple of friends. They are moving to Virginia to start a new chapter in their lives. It was a bittersweet evening celebrating an end and a new beginning. However, this is what my home means to me, the end and the beginning of our lives. Through all the ups and downs of life, home should be steady.  A place for you to wind down, relax, grow, laugh, cry, and create those memories.

Have a great weekend! xoxo

FRIDAY FINDS: ARIZONA 4TH OF JULY

All week I have been gearing you up for one of my favorite holidays (could you tell?) So of course, this Friday Finds I wanted to share with you some events around the Phoenix area. There are fireworks shows all around town & pool parties in Scottsdale & downtown to fit any of your needs. Whether you're going to be out celebrating with family or friends--remember to drink plenty of water & be safe! 

Fireworks: 

Fabulous Phoenix Fourth // Steel Indian School Park 

Tempe Fireworks Spectacular // Tempe Town Lake

Peoria All-American Festival //  Peoria Sports Complex

Cave Creek Independence Day Celebration // Harold's Cave Creek Corral 

 & it wouldn't be a BOWW-Utiful holiday without a pool party! Here are some of the hottest pool parties this holiday weekend. 

Pool Parties: 

// W Hotel Scottsdale //  <--feeling swanky?

// Lustre Rooftop Garden //  <--I've been wanting to try this pool/bar!

// Maya Day & Nightclub //  <--went last year & had a blast!! 

// Saguaro Hotel // 

// Hotel Valley Ho // 

// Talking Stick Resort //  <--DJ Pauly D! 

If I was in Phoenix this holiday weekend it would be a tough decision where to spend the day. 

Where will you be this holiday weekend?

xoxo

FRIDAY FINDS: AZ WEAR THAT YOU CARE

Local artists, charities, designers, food truck, raffles, & live music...Hmm where were you this past Saturday? 

AZ Wear That You Care was an event put on by the organization Pineapple Triangle. It was held at Legend City Studios in downtown Phoenix (thank goodness for AC!!). The clothing and accessories artists included Sup Goods, Misha Mendicino Designs, This Freckled Girl, & many more! Each artist donated a portion of their proceeds to a charity of their choice. I spoke with Maggie the founder of Pineapple Triangle and she wanted to encourage shopping at local businesses and provide an opportunity for artists to showcase their work in the summer. Although the summer heat was blazing the event was buzzing with people. Every artist I came up to was kind and willing to provide background behind their products.  

Sad you missed it?! Well... I had announced it on my Facebook so make sure you follow me so you don't miss out on any more events!

&& when I spoke with Maggie she mentioned that Pineapple Triangle will also be holding an event in the Fall--so make sure you keep an eye out for that! 

FRIDAY FINDS: LOS DOS MOLINOS

 Since I told you all yesterday that I love love love lovee mexican food it only makes sense to share with you one of my favorite mexican food restaurants in Arizona. No need to drive over to New Mexico for the real deal, the good stuff is right in your backyard (well..if you live in Arizona). Los Dos Molinos has real authentic New Mexican food that even brings my mom back to her days in Albuquerque.

Funny story about Los Dos-- My family and I were driving down from a wedding in Sedona one day, and my sister (who lives in Colorado) had never been to Los Dos Molinos. Since my family loves it we decided to take her but the whole ride home we kept it a secret that their food is super spicy. My sister ended up finding out the hard way about their real spicy cuisine.  It was funny for the rest of us...but not really for her! Haha oops sorry sissy! 

Also, Los Dos has the BEST margaritas! Their hand squeezed margaritas take a bit to make but I promise they are worth it. These babies are better than any marg I had in Cabo--yup they are that good!

Los Dos Molinos has multiple locations to ease the burden of your Uber fare from drinking too many margaritas! Looks like I know where I'll be this evening! xoxo.

FRIDAY FINDS: BLOGUETTES

// image source //  

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Top -- Zara (old) // Shorts-- Target--Similar  // Sandals 

// image source //  

I am excited to share with you guys my experience at the Bloguettes workshop this week. The 2 day workshop took place at A Bloom Salon in downtown Phoenix (just a few minutes away from my house). It was really cute venue to get our creative juices flowing. The branding workshop applies to both bloggers and business owners to help create a brand through your online presence. My mind is overloaded with all the information they gave us, but it was worth it! The program is heavily based on Photoshop because it is such a powerful tool to help create your brand.  Photoshop will help me edit and create graphics that I wasn't able to do before. This way, I can save both time & money! (woohoo) However! I'm now swamped at my 'real' job trying to catch up from the two days I missed! & I'm missing more time away from work because I leave for Cali for the weekend! Whew--trust me, it was worth taking that time off but I'm now paying for it! 

Some of my fav moments from the last couple of days... 

1 // Lusting over everyone else's outfits (duhh)

2 // Learning tips & tricks in Photoshop

3 // Eating ChopShop everyday 

4 // Goodie Bags 

5 // Making friends & meeting a few that I've Instgramed stalked a few times... (guilty) 

6 // Becoming a part of the Bloguettes community 

I love that these girls are helping build the Phoenix blogging community & I look forward to going to some of their mini events in the future.