The Pop-Up Makery at The Street

I love to craft and learn new skills, you probably know that already. Being local to some wonderful lady makers has made learning those new skills easy peasy so you can imagine my excitement when I learned that the folks at The Street Chestnut Hill are taking their pop up space and bringing in the makers! The Pop-Up Makery, an event-driven space devoted to interactive classes and workshops, led by six of Boston’s most creative and locally grown brands: Alice’s Table, The Paint Bar, The Third Piece, Sip & Script, Niche and Artists for Humanity. Students will learn to master new skills, create beautiful works of art, or perfect existing talents through drop-in sessions and classes that cater to all levels. The Pop-Up Makery is open from February 24, 2017 through March 26, 2017 at 49 Boylston Street Chestnut Hill MA. From lessons in flower arranging to knitting to calligraphy to painting to cartooning, classes at The Pop-Up Makery include the following. Several classes are kid-friendly and each class welcomes all levels. I am thinking that I will need to sign up for a Niche terrarium class since I've already done multiple sessions with Alice's Table, The Third Piece and just recently took part in a Sip and Script evening!

Floral Arrangements with Alice’s Table: Learn how to make beautiful floral arrangements with this lifestyle brand that empowers women to live the joyous life. Class includes an apron, vase and all florals. www.alicestable.com; Instagram: @alicestable

Painting with The Paint Bar: Pairing paint brushes with social soirees, The Paint Bar brings out the artist in everyone with step-by-step instruction for all ages. Classes will range from those suited for adults to mommy and me to kid-friendly fun. All include a canvas, acrylic paint, brushes, easels, and apron.www.thepaintbar.com; Instagram: @thepaintbar

Calligraphy with Sip & Script: Learn hand lettering and modern calligraphy with two of Boston’s top calligraphers. Each class includes a calligraphy kit, writing material and note cards, plus instruction and demonstration.www.sipandscript.com; Instagram: @sipandscript

Knitting with The Third Piece: Learn beginner knitting techniques from this innovative fashion brand creating luxury, hand-made knitwear. Instruction will include how to cast on, knit stitch and cast off, and students will leave with the makings of their very first scarf. All materials are included.www.the3rdpiece.com; Instagram: @thethirdpiece

Toon Night with Artists for Humanity:  Boston’s award-winning youth arts nonprofit (AFH) and mobile comic workshop, Toon Nite, join forces for a fun-filled, creative evening. Learn how to draw your own cartoons and comics in this workshop for both extreme beginners and accomplished artists. www.afhboston.org; toonnite.com; Instagram: @afhboston and @toonnite

Build Your Own Terrarium with Niche: Award-winning urban garden supply, Niche teaches students about super trendy plants and how to create a terrarium using a selection of mini tropicals or succulents, complete with figurines, funky rocks and other awesome terrarium accessories. The class includes one terrarium, plants and materials. www.nicheboston.com; Instagram: @nicheboston
 

The calendar for The Pop-Up Makery is below!

Friday, February 24, 2017  
Learn to Knit with The Third Piece

Tuesday, February 28, 2017  
Intro to Calligraphy with Sip + Script

Wednesday, March 1, 2017  
Learn to Knit with The Third Piece

Thursday, March 2, 2017  
Delightful Daisy with Alice’s Table
 

Saturday, March 4, 2017  
Learn to Paint the Boston Common Walk with The Paint Bar

Thursday, March 9, 2017 from 6:30-8 pm
Learn to Knit with The Third Piece

Friday, March 10, 2017
Toon Night with Artists for Humanity

Saturday, March 11, 2017  
Mommy & Me Class with The Paint Bar

Sunday, March 12, 2017
Build Your Own Terrarium! with Niche

Sunday, March 12, 2017  
Intro to Calligraphy with Sip + Script

Tuesday, March 14, 2017  
Sunflowers at The Street with Alice’s Table

Thursday, March 16, 2017
Intermediate-level Calligraphy & Hand-Lettering with Sip + Script

Sunday, March 19, 2017 
Kid-Friendly Fun; Mermaid Painting with The Paint Bar

Wednesday, March 22, 2017  
Specialty Watercolor Workshop with The Paint Bar 

Thursday March 23, 2017  
Learn to Knit with The Third Piece

Friday, March 24, 2017
Build Your Own Terrarium! The Airplants Addition with Niche

Saturday, March 25, 2017 
Intro to Calligraphy with Sip + Script

Which classes will I see you at?

Sundown Yoga presented by YogaWorks + The Street

Join the folks at The Street Chestnut Hill at sundown for a yoga practice under the stars as they celebrate and welcome YogaWorks, coming soon to The Street! This class will be taught by Catie Macken and will include live music by DJ Oh!, complimentary infused water from Juice Press + special perks from shops and eateries at The Street. Please be sure to bring a mat or large towel and dress accordinaly (they reccomend layers!). 

Be one of the 1st 100 to RSVP to recieve a Swag Bag upon arrival! I'll be there, baby bump, mat and layers to stretch (as much as I can) and enjoy a little live music. Won't you join me?!

Sidewalk Sale + Street Festival at The Street, July 23rd

It's no surprise that I love The Street in Chestnut Hill, MA. I love to treat myself to almost everything there but nothing excites me more than the opportunity to hit up some amazing sales, eat some delish food and have a one stop shop for a day of fun. What am I talking about? I'm talking about the Annual Sidewalk Sale and Street Festival taking place on Saturday July 23rd, 10am-8pm. I took the Propah kid last year, and he had a great time running around, eating his first Shakeshack burger and helping Mom pick out some awesome stuff to take home. I expect this year to be much of the same!

Part 1 THE SALES!

•        Polka Dog Bakery: 15% off storewide

•        Ku De Ta: 25% off storewide

·         Brookline Liquor Mart: multiple in-store tastings throughout the day

•        Juice Press: spend $25 and receive a $5 gift card in return

•        Showcase SuperLux: purchase a $60 gift card for $50 or a $175 gift card for only $150

•        Treat Cupcake Bar: $3.75 each for one DIY Cupcake (typically 4.25) + decorate your own "I like my cupcake with" t-shirt for $9, or enjoy both for $12 (20% discount)

•        VINCE: Enjoy up to 60% off select men’s, women’s and children’s apparel

•        skoah: enjoy complimentary hand facials + discounted product from this Best of Boston winner

·         Bluemercury: gift with each purchase over $75 + Bronzing Bar and Strobing Station set-up outdoors

I also hear through the grapevine that there may be some amazing offers from Portobello Road and Splendid who will be presenting something special for the day... As well as Adler, Davids Tea, Pottery Barn, INTERMIX, Calypso, The Cottage – truly, everyone.

Part 2 POP-UPS!

Have you visited any of The Street's Pop Ups? I've seen almost all of them and absolutely love the concept.... whether we're learning or eating or simply shopping, the Pop Up Project is an amazing idea. Kane's Donuts, OMG! Bagels, The Third Piece, Sweet Lydia's and Papers + Presents will return for this day only. Hooray! They will be set up outdoors and “open for business” at various times throughout the day in various locations on property.

Part 3 NEW ART!

“CELEBRATE LOVE & HAPPINESS WITH ARTIST CURTIS KULIG. SATURDAY / JULY 23 / NOON - 2PM

Join the team at The Street as they unveil his new onsite mural ’99.9% Happy’ and enjoy a once in a lifetime opportunity to participate with Kulig in an interactive public stickering

installation that gives friends, families and fans a chance to be a part of his ‘Love Me’ movement first hand.” My toddler is OBSESSED with stickers so I am very much looking forward to this interactive art!

Part 4 EVERYTHING ELSE (and it's a lot!)

Live Music all day long, face painting and balloon animals, passed cotton candy and whirly pops... the atmosphere is sure to be AMAZING! I know that if I bring the family, there will be shopping, treats, fun and lots to see no matter what we're looking to do. I'm thinking a little "Treat Yo Self" to some Ku De Ta and Shakeshack is in the cards for lil' ol' me! ;-)

Will you hit up The Street's Annual Sidewalk sale on Saturday July 23rd?

The Perfect Treat Yourself Day

Last week, I took the day off from work and booked it outta my house for a day specifically for me! No ifs, ands or buts about it, I needed a day of self care and time by myself to reflect on my business but mostly to treat myself to some services, yummy food and shopping where I don't have a toddler hanging off of me! Thing is, you gotta have a plan so you can make the most of your time away because, eventually, reality beckons and you've got to get back. I have some tips and tricks on how I make the most out of my days off, so what are you waiting for? Treat Yo Self!

Find a spot where you can do a lot at once: I love The Street in Chestnut Hill. You may have seen me post about them before. What I love about this shopping center is that it can be a one stop shop for me and for a day like this, it was the perfect destination. With nail salons, facialists, blow dry bars, makeup, food and shopping it only made sense to plan a day at The Street because I wouldn't need to go anywhere else!

Make a plan: Don't just head out without a plan. Big mistake, lady! If you want the day to go as smoothly as possible, to keep you relaxation level at "total zen" all day, then you have to do the legwork in advance. Make appointments, don't just wing it. Here's an example of my game plan:

830am: Amazing manicure and pedicure at Miniluxe

1100am:  Fabulous Fitskin facial with the team at skoah

1200pm: Lunch break at the delicious Juice Press

1245pm: Post Lunch Stop at Splendid, because you know I gotta shop!

130pm: Wash and Style at Be Styled Blow Dry Bar

2:30pm: Pick up some makeup at Bluemercury

3:00pm: Sipping on Tea at David's Tea

See? It's a plan. I made appointments where necessary but knew that I would have to go with the flow but if you've got an idea of what you want to achieve, then you'll need to map it out or that day off/away, won't be as dreamy as you'd like.

Have fun/ a great attitude: If you're feeling good and exuding good vibes, you'll be happy and you'll be making others around you happy as well! Isn't it scientifically proven that if you smile you'll be happier even if you're not happy right that moment? (stops to try it) Note: BE HAPPY!

Cherish the time: Enjoy each and every piece of your day individually. While getting your nails done, enjoy the process, take in your surrounding, chat with your manicurist. Getting a facial or massage? Let yourself relax and sink into the really special service you're receiving.  Eat your food slowly, appreciate the time you've got in the hair chair, take your sweet time choosing a new tea to try. This is your day to relax and rejuvenate yourself, whatever it is that makes you happy!

What do you do on your days off? What makes you feel special?!

* I worked with The Street on an Instagram takeover. Some services were complimentary while others I paid for myself. All opinions are 100% my own. I just want you to Treat Yo Self!

Alice's Table at The Pop Up

This past week, I was once again blessed with the opportunity to friggin' get my flower arranging on with Alice's Table. You know I love The Street in Chestnut Hill, so the fact that Alice's Table is taking up residence in The Pop-Up until February 16th, well, that made this Mama very happy. Alice invited some local bloggers to check out the space and learn how to arrange some garden roses with eucalyptus and wax flowers and more! It's really easy (and fun) when you're hanging with your girls making pretty things. You might remember my Thanksgiving arrangement but this was a different set up and with girls I knew/could chat it up with (I mean, Miley and Liam are back together!). There are so many great opportunities to learn the art of flower arranging, not just at The Street but at events that Alice's Table has coming up (umm hello, Jonathan Adler!)

It was so great to see some fellow bloggers and compare our creations. Even though we used the same "ingredients", we still managed to create different arrangements. It was just a cool experience. So great to see Emily of Shell Chic'd, Annie of Once Upon a Plate, Jenna of Boston Chic Party, Meghan of Surviving the Suburbs, Jessica of Champagne Thursday, Kerri of Haven Way + Descriptive Apparel, one half of Slow it Down Girl and  Lindsey of Oh Buoy Boston!

If you're looking for a new night out with the girls (or even guys), I can't recommend Alice's Table enough. The gals are friendly, helpful and don't mind you gabbing. The atmosphere is fun and you actually learn flower arranging skills that you can use on future, at home creations. Doesn't my arrangement look masterful? That could be you, too!

The Third Piece Pops Up at The Street

The Third Piece, a luxury knitwear line owned by two trendsetting Boston women, will take over The Pop-Up from Thursday January 7, 2016 through Wednesday January 13, 2016. The Pop-Up at The Street is located at 7 Boylston Street Chestnut Hill, MA. If you haven't heard about The Pop-Up at The Street, well, my friend, you are missing out on a cool new concept to hit the outskirts of Boston. The Pop-Up just recently housed a bagel joint and will welcome a floral artist in the future but for the week of January 7th through the 13th, The Third Piece will pop up it's first store front! Now, I love what they've got going on... for those who are interested in purchasing some crafty, cool Winter accessories, you can go ahead and purchase those luxe-handmade pieces... but those who want to whip them up themselves? The folks at The Third Piece want to help you do that as well. They are offering up a knit bar and knitting workshops throughout the week so you can pop in and try your hand at the whole kit 'n caboodle yourself.

WORKSHOPS INCLUDE: NEW YEAR NEW HOBBY Thursday 1/7 (630pm), Friday 1/8 (630pm) , Saturday 1/9 (12pm, 3pm, 6pm), Sunday 1/10 (12pm, 3pm), Monday 1/11 (630pm), Tuesday 1/12 (630pm)

The workshop participation includes:

- 1 Skein of The Third Piece Funky Chunky - Color of Your Choice
- 1 Set of Bamboo Knitting Needles (US Size 15)
- A Knit Kit Tote Bag
- A fun creative learning experience taught by a Master Knitter with additional guided assistance
- Access to Complimentary Pattern Support for future yarn purchases
- 20% off All Collection & Yarn Purchases at our Pop-up Store!

AFTERSCHOOL LEARN TO KNIT (ages 7-13), Friday 1/8 (4pm) and Monday 1/11(4pm)

The workshop participation includes:

- 1 Skein of The Third Piece Funky Chunky - Color of Your Choice
- 1 Set of Bamboo Knitting Needles (US Size 15)
- A Knit Kit Tote Bag
- A fun creative learning experience taught by a Master Knitter with additional guided assistance
- Access to Complimentary Pattern Support for future yarn purchases
- 20% off All Collection & Yarn Purchases at our Pop-up Store!

KNIT AT NOON Thursday 1/7, Friday 1/8, Monday 1/11 and Tuesday 1/12

The workshop participation includes:

- 1 Skein of The Third Piece Funky Chunky - Color of Your Choice
- 1 Set of Bamboo Knitting Needles (US Size 15)
- A Knit Kit Tote Bag
- A fun creative learning experience taught by a Master Knitter with additional guided assistance
- Access to Complimentary Pattern Support for future yarn purchases
- 20% off All Collection & Yarn Purchases at our Pop-up Store!

Will you be hitting one of the workshops this coming week? I sure will be!

Breakfast at Tiffany's Brunch for Charity

This is one of those fundraising events where you just curse that you (me) have to work a day job and can't take the time off to attend what will sure to be a super fun brunch for the girly girl in you (me) that loves to brunch and shop! The Street and Jenny Johnson, Founder of Champy and Producer and Co-Host of NESN's Dining Playbook, will host the ultimate feel-good event, a Breakfast at Tiffany's Bellini Brunch in support of Boston Children's Hospital League on Thursday, December 3rd from 10am-12:30pm.

The festive party will offer brunch during a screening of the classic Audrey Hepburn film at Showcase SuperLux (umm super posh!), along with complimentary polish refreshers by MiniLuxe (such a treat!), a glamorous photo booth, a trunk show with both The Third Piece, a locally-owned luxury knit-wear line, and Good Charma, a jewelry collection with a celebrity following. Jenny Johnson’s new sparkling wine Champy (yum!), produced in Sonoma County, will also be for sale at the event with a percentage of proceeds going to Boston Children’s Hospital League.

Tickets to Breakfast at Tiffany's Bellini Brunch are $50 and available on EventBrite. A ticket includes:

•  Admission to a Breakfast at Tiffany's screening within Showcase SuperLux.

• Brunch, served during the screening, including Bellinis and Mimosas featuring Champy, a new Sonoma sparkling wine from Jenny Johnson.

• A gift bag filled with contributions from boutiques and eateries at The Street, including MiniLuxe, J.McLaughlin, skoah, Eyespot, Polkadog Bakery and more.

Following the event, The Street will host Shop for a Cause, a stroll that is open to brunch guests and the general public. A percentage of proceeds from all purchases made at participating stores on Thursday December 3, 2015 will be donated to the Boston Children's Hospital League. Those stores will be listed on The Street's website in the weeks to come. 

Let me know if you have plans to go so I can live vicariously through your social snaps!

Reason that I Like to Spend Time at The Street

Recently, I have the awesome opportunity to spend a lot of time at The Street. I'm sure you've seen some of my Insta snaps of people, places and things, all from The Street in Chestnut Hill. I'll be honest, I don't live super convenient to Chestnut Hill and normally, I would scoff at the idea of driving on Route 9 but The Street? Well, The Street is worth the trip. I have headed out there for all manner of their Summertime at The Street events and each one was a success on it's own. There is something for everyone and I have really, honestly and truly, developed a super crush on this shopping center. Weird? Yes. But true? Yes.