The Spotlight: Lotus Boutique

I have been a fan of Lotus Boutiques since arriving to Charlotte over three years ago. My first stop on the Lotus circuit was the location on Central Avenue (now Gallery Twenty-Two) then I visited the location in SouthPark and next up was East Blvd, which became my favorite one of all. All those stores are no longer but a new location at the Metropolitan continues the chic, modern girl feel that defines Lotus.

There price point isn't Neiman's but it's not Target either but do know that you will find outfits that allow you to make a grand entrance at any event and you can shop from head to toe (jewelry and shoes are sprinkled throughout the boutique) with a glass of wine in your hand. What's not to love?

Lotus is having their grand opening party this Friday, April 8th. See the invite below and don't forget to RSVP!

HoneeBee Quote

“Whoever said money can't buy happiness simply didn't know where to go shopping.”

Yes, I know she does not have these braids now but I like the pic!

Random Fact: Bo Derek is dating (and has been for awhile) Aiden from Sex in the City! Who knew?

source: thinkexist.com, landonkeywest.com

Gift Tip #60: The ELLEments of Personal Style

The ELLEments of Personal Style was created by ELLE Magazine editors Joe Zee and Maggie Bullock an showcases 25 modern fashion icons on how to dress, shop and live. This is the perfect gift for the aspiring fashion designer/stylist or friend who simply eats, breathes and lives fashion.

What I like about this book is that it does not only feature the expected fashion icons like Fergie and Milla Jovovich but also those ladies that are not in the industry but still has a love for fashion such as Katherine Pope, TV Producer who has been in charge of television hits like 30 Rock and Heroes. I also like that the book does a snapshot of each person featured sharing their background, fashion sense and style inspirations. There are quotes, photos and my absolute fave item: an inspiration board that highlights the individuals favorite shops, obsessions, who their style icon is and why, as well as a style study that includes photos of each icon at various events.

This is one book any fashionista should have on her shelf so if you have a gal pal of best boy that loves fashion this is the gift for them.

Gift Tip #59: Beach bags

This is the time to begin planning a beach trip...somewhere for the weekend like Isle of Palms or somewhere international like Dominican Republic. Whatever the location, you will need something to carry the beach essentials (i.e. sunblock, magazines, water, etc).

A beach bag is essential and this gift could be for you and your beach trip or something you purchase for your beach buddy. Here are a few options:

Tory Burch Small Jaden Tote

Turista Beach Bag, seller: TuristaClothing

LL Bean Boat and Tote Bag, Open Top

Guess who's coming to town?

photo courtesy of Nordstrom

Yup! Charlotte is getting a Nordstrom Rack at Carolina Place Mall. Details are below and if you get there by 8:45am you will be put in a drawing for a $2,000 shopping spree! Nordstrom Rack Carolina Pavilion (#641) 9563 South Boulevard Charlotte, NC 28273 (704) 705-2161 Hours: Effective March 31 Mon-Sat 9:30 - 9:30 Sun 10:00 - 8:00 Grand Opening March 31, 2011!

HoneeBee Quote

Oprah had Barbara Streisand on her show and they discussed everything under the sun...Barbara chatted, sang and even Robert Redford stopped by (by the way if you have never seen The Way Things Were you are missing out!). They also discussed Barbara's first book titled My Passion for Design.

Lady O said this book would be "a great gift"!

Gift Tip #58: Cream and Sugar set

Coffee anyone? How about a tea party? If "Yes" is your answer you need to have a beautiful cream and sugar set to enhance your experience! Here are few options:

Anna Cream and Sugar Set, ylightening.com

Kon-Tiki Sugar Bowl and Creamer Set in Cream, amazon.com

etsy.com, seller: LennyMud

Gift Tip #57: Memo Mousepad

This gift was actually given to me from a group of my SASSiest friends for my birthday and I thought it was such a novel idea! I love items that have dual purposes (not to mention helps me stay organized) and the memo notepad from Henry Road does just that. I don't know about you but I have post-it notes all over my desk and having this memopad will help eliminate that issue and my current mousepad is curling up on the ends so this gift comes at the right time. This item would be for someone just getting a new job, a co-worker that is sprucing up their space or any 9-5'er that appreciates a pop of color next to their computer.
Also, I know I am not the only one with notes all over her desk and an old mousepad...so this gift is for my fellow post-it note addicts and those that overlook their lovely mousepads.



source: henryroad.com

What to get a Mommy To Be (MTB)

I saw a tweet from Rachel Clapp asking "Who has a good gift idea to celebrate someone's pregnancy - she's 3 months. Gift for her not baby...?" She inspired me to answer this question below.

It's completely natural for Moms to be overlooked once the baby arrives but is that really fair? NOOOO! Moms do all the work and deserve gifts just for them...and I don't mean diapers and cutesy outfits. Here are some options for Moms to be (MTB).

Maternity massage: Let MTB relax with a wonderful massage. It may be the last time she will be able to relax like this for some time.
Mommy Jewelry: Give MTB a new piece of jewelry that represents her soon to be new mommy status like a charm/ring etc that includes the birthstone of the new baby.
Day of Beauty: Give her a little me time by taking her to get her nails done at a top salon.
Digital Camera: To document her MTB status and share with her little cutie pie once he/she arrives.
Do a Grocery run for Mom-to-be: Take a hour or so and get the MTB all the items she's been craving while pregnant and some household items (like paper towels and dish detergent) that always seem to disappear.

Gift Tip #56: Coin Purse

Sometimes you just need a little bag to carry the essentials...a little cash, keys and your phone. Here are a few options that are sure to please any giftee...maybe your BFF, first cousin or you.

Big Buddah Tilly, piperline.com

Cole Haan Handbag, Dakota Wristlet Wallet, Macys.com

COACH POPPY PETAL PRINT SLIM ZIP, Macys.com

You're So Fine coin purse, blueq.com