Category: Birmingham

Birmingham /

#GameDay Fashion – Tommy Bahama Collegiate Series Adds New Schools and Women’s Styles

Tommy Bahama announces the expansion of the highly successful Tommy Bahama Collegiate Series for the 2018 season. The new collection includes over 70 of the top universities across the country, as well as the addition of women’s styles. Designed to appeal to students, alumni, and multigenerational families, the Tommy Bahama Collegiate Series features university logoed polo shirts, camp shirts, half-zip pullovers and full-zip jackets in college colors. The success of the collaboration and its expansion into additional schools and women’s product is due to the combination of high-quality Tommy Bahama product and signature styles along with the appeal of the aloha spirit and school pride offered in this truly unique collection. Additional schools will be added throughout the year.

“The response to the Tommy Bahama Collegiate Series has been amazing and it just keeps growing,” says Doug Wood, CEO of Tommy Bahama. “The opportunity to expand our upscale fan apparel to women and even more colleges shows a real desire for quality product that can be worn beyond game day.”

The Tommy Bahama Collegiate Series features some of the brand’s signature styles in a range of college colors and details, each embroidered with the school’s logo. New this season is the women’s collection, featuring flattering new styles: the Floral Victory Tee, a fun casual knit shirt in a fading floral print and university logo to show your school pride; the Sea Glass Breezer, a sleeveless button down that provides a fresh look; and the Winning Streak Full-Zip, a long sleeve zip front jacket that makes it easy to show support for your favorite college.

In addition to the new styles offered for women, the men’s selection continues to grow as well to provide the signature island spirit and great Tommy Bahama quality. The men’s styles now include the Parque Polo, a festive tropical print polo shirt with university logo and the Polo Rico, a horizontal striped polo shirt in school colors with a logo on the left chest. The camp shirt options have now expanded to include the Fuego Floral, a rich floral print rendered in college colors as well as the Hula Oasis, a classic solid camp shirt in school colors with the logo on the left chest. As the weather cools down, the Tommy Bahama Collegiate Series will keep you warm with the new Firewall Core Half-Zip, a sleek grey knit with university logo perfect to root for your team while staying warm and the Full-Zip Scoreboard Jacket in a performance knit fabric. Lastly, the Pacific Check is a long sleeve button down shirt with a team logo that shows your school support far beyond game day.

The Tommy Bahama Collegiate Series was developed in conjunction with licensing partners IMG College Licensing, LLC, Fermata Partners, Learfield Licensing Partners and 289c Apparel, Ltd. The collection will be available at tommybahama.com, select Tommy Bahama stores, Follett Higher Education bookstores, Barnes & Noble College Bookstores, Alumni Hall, Fanatics.com, and select college bookstores and fan shops stores across the country. Suggested retail prices range from $110-$175 for men’s and $80-$110 for women’s.

The schools included in the Tommy Bahama Collegiate Series for 2018 are:

  1. Arizona State University
  2. Auburn University
  3. Baylor University
  4. Boise State University
  5. Brown University
  6. Clemson University
  7. East Carolina University
  8. East Tennessee State University
  9. Florida State University
  10. Fresno State University
  11. Gonzaga University
  12. Iowa State University
  13. Kansas State University
  14. Louisiana State University
  15. Marquette University
  16. Michigan State University
  17. Mississippi State University
  18. New York University
  19. North Carolina State University
  20. Oklahoma State University
  21. Purdue University
  22. Stanford University
  23. Southern Methodist University
  24. Syracuse University
  25. Texas A&M University
  26. Texas Christian University
  27. Texas Tech University
  28. The Ohio State University
  29. The Pennsylvania State University
  30. United States Military Academy
  31. United States Naval Academy
  32. University of Alabama
  33. University of Arizona
  34. University of Arkansas
  35. University of California, Berkeley
  36. University of California, Irvine
  37. University of California, Los Angeles
  38. University of Central Florida
  39. University of Florida
  40. University of Georgia
  41. University of Hawaii
  42. University of Iowa
  43. University of Kansas
  44. University of Louisville
  45. University of Massachusetts, Amherst
  46. University of Memphis
  47. University of Miami
  48. University of Michigan
  49. University of Minnesota
  50. University of Mississippi
  51. University of Missouri
  52. University of Montana
  53. University of Nebraska
  54. University of Notre Dame
  55. University of Oklahoma
  56. University of Oregon
  57. University of Southern California
  58. University of South Carolina
  59. University of South Florida
  60. University of Tennessee
  61. University of Texas
  62. University of Washington
  63. University of Wisconsin
  64. Vanderbilt University
  65. Villanova University
  66. Virginia Tech
  67. Wichita State University
  68. Wake Forest University
  69. Washington State University
  70. West Virginia University
  71. Xavier University

 

Accessories /

South Moon Under Store Opening and The Summit Birmingham

South Moon Under opened a few weeks ago at The Summit Birmingham.  I learned about this store while living in Baltimore and hosting a styling event at the Harbor East location.  If you were a fan of the Scandal Shopping TV Series we featured the retailer to recreate Olivia Pope’s iconic look.

SMU has a variety of stylish items from a few of our favorite brands.  Some of those labels include Chinese Laundry, French Connection, Gucci, Nasty Gal, and Lucky Brand.  I stopped by the store to see the new merchandise and pick-up a summer accessory.  The store manager informed me that each store has only a select amount of key pieces.  There’s no worry about having the same outfit as your former classmate.

I enjoyed walking around the store while music played and secretly fell in love with the Uneven Fray Denim jacket.  The official store opening is Saturday, June 2, 2018, at 10:00 a.m.  If you stop by South Moon Under, tell us what you purchase!

Store Address:

220 Sumit Boulevard

Suite 150

Birmingham, Alabama 35243

Birmingham /

Staycation Tips This Summer Without Being Boring

If you’re staying at home this summer, you’re probably tired of hearing your friends going on about their vacation plans. While they are regaling you with what they plan to do, or where they have been (if your Facebook wall is inundated with pics), you may be feeling a little blue. Your summer prospects may appear boring in comparison. But wait! Your summer at home doesn’t have to be dull. You can still have a great time, and unlike your mates, you don’t have to endure steep flight costs, long waiting times, tourists, or tummy bugs from dodgy foods.

Here are some ideas to get you thinking about your summer at home.

  1. Look for fun activities near you

Unless you live in the middle of a desert, there are bound to be things you can do in your hometown. There may be amenities such as an Escape Room, bowling alley, cinema, or leisure center. You could get on your bike and head off somewhere scenic, or rock your summer staples if you have a beach near you. We often miss the things right under our noses because we are so intent on exploring new places, so go online, Google your town, and make a list of all the interesting things to do near you.

  1. Get a summer job

If you have time off from your regular job, the last thing you want to do is work all summer. However, you can pick up some valuable experience with your time off, and make some extra money to boot. If you don’t want to work indoors (such as at a grocery store), there may be opportunities to work in the great outdoors, such as at a camping ground, picking fruit, or lending a hand at a local farm. The summer is also a great time to take up a short-term internship program, and this will give you a massive boost to whatever career you are interested in.

  1. Focus on your hobbies

If you’re anything like us, you may not have time to focus on your regular hobbies because of the general busyness of life. However, if you have free time on your hands over the summer, get back into what you love doing. On the other hand, the summer may also be a time to explore new hobbies, especially if local community groups or sports centers are organizing courses and events over the sunny season, so head online and see what’s available.

  1. Get involved with the community

Bring out your charitable side and look for volunteer opportunities over the summer. If you enjoy working with children, you may be able to help out at a holiday club or volunteer as a sports coach. If animals are more your thing, you could volunteers at a local animal shelter or farm. Alternatively, visit the elderly, help the homeless, lend a hand at a food bank, get involved with conservation groups… the opportunities for volunteering are endless, and while they can be hard work, you will have a far more meaningful summer than your friends who are wasting their days lying on the beach.

Finally

Summer at home doesn’t have to be boring, so if you are stuck for something to do, consider our ideas. Who knows, you might even make your friends jealous, especially when they come back from vacation sun-bronzed but with no money!

Collaborative Post

 

Birmingham /

Zucchini Lasagna Spirals Recipe: Cooking Demo on WBRC Fox6 News

Last Tuesday I had the opportunity to visit WBRC Fox6 news and host a cooking demo.  The recipe that I prepared was Zucchini Lasagna Spirals.  This was a fun opportunity because I like to prepare meals at home for my family with time-saving kitchen appliances.

Feature Photo from Destination Delish

I wanted to share the ingredients for those that enjoy trying new meals.  See the list below.

Zucchini Lasagna Spirals

 Ingredients:

  • 2-3 cups Cucina Antica Tomato Basil cooking sauce
  • 12 oz. ricotta
  • 2 tbsp. basil, chopped
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, freshly grated
  • 8 oz. mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 4 medium zucchini, thinly sliced lengthwise
  • Salt

Preparation:

  1. Lay the zucchini strips out on a cooling rack (cooling rack allows excess water to drain). Sprinkle salt across the tops of the zucchini and let sit for about 10-15 minutes to let the water sweat out of the zucchini. Pat the water off the zucchini and then flip them over and repeat with the next side. Wipe off excess salt with a towel.
  2. Preheat your oven to 375°F
  3. In a medium bowl mix ricotta cheese, basil, mozzarella, and egg. Stir well.
  4. Spread 1/2 cup Cucina Antica Tomato Basil on the bottom of casserole dish.
  5. Lay out the sliced zucchini noodles and spread about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture over each individual zucchini noodle. Add a spoonful of Cucina Antica Tomato Basil over the top of the ricotta.
  6. Carefully roll up the zucchini and place in the casserole dish.
  7. Spread extra Cucina Antica Tomato Basil cooking sauce over the top of the rolls. Sprinkle Parmigiano-Reggiano on top.
  8. Bake for about 45 minutes or until the cheese on top is a nice golden brown.

A suggestion I provided on-air would be to include onions, mushrooms or ground turkey meat.  This is the perfect dish to serve for dinner or during Sunday brunch.

Birmingham /

Chenille Dream Cardi from Soft Surroundings Transitional Piece: #OOTD or #WIW

There’s something about building a Capsule Wardrobe that makes every woman smile.  It’s the essence of knowing that basic pieces in your closet can be mixed and matched.

Soft Surroundings launched their new Spring Collection just in time for the seasonal change.  The retailer has transitional pieces such as Trench Coats and Cardigans that can be included in everyone’s capsule wardrobe.

Layering a cardigan over a midi dress or tunic is a chic way to stay warm and fashionable.

The Chenille Dream Cardi has an ultra soft texture with a classic fit.  I wore my cardigan over a leopard shirt and pair of distressed jean leggings.

Visit your local Soft Surroundings to view more of their luxe style sweaters and cardigans!

 

 

Beauty /

Good Day Alabama Lifestyle Segment: 2018 Product of the Year Winners

On Friday, February 9, 2018 I had the opportunity to host a Lifestyle Segment with Good Day Alabama, WBRC Fox 6 News highlighting the 2018 Product of the Year Winners.

For those that don’t know, Product of the Year is the world’s largest consumer-voted award for product innovation. The 31 winners of the 2018 Product of the Year Award were announced at the annual awards show on February 8th at the Edison Ballroom in New York City.

A national study of 40,000 consumers conducted by Kantar TNS, a global leader in consumer research, helps determine the Product of the Year winners each year with the aim to help consumers best identify the top new products across multiple categories.

Birmingham /

Discover Cultural Delights in Montgomery: Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Museum of Fine Arts, Montgomery Ballet, and More

Montgomery is making a name for itself as one of the cultural capitals of the South. Known for its Southern hospitality and its revitalized downtown, this riverfront capital city was the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement and has established itself as a landmark Deep South destination with much to offer in the field of arts and culture. Headlined by the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, one of the top Shakespeare festivals in the country, Montgomery presents a wide variety of high-quality cultural opportunities.

 “The wealth of cultural pursuits in our city continues to grow,” shares Vice President of Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Dawn Hathcock. “From professional theatrical productions to world-class art collections and an accomplished local symphony, to an adventurous art collective, there is always something to do for those seeking arts and culture. Visitors who come to Montgomery for the Civil Rights monuments and museums are often delighted by our world-class cultural institutions.”

  • Alabama Shakespeare Festival, a fully professional regional theatre that produces around ten productions each season. Although productions of Shakespeare are at the artistic core of the company, the company also produces Broadway musicals, children’s productions, American classics and world premieres among their annual offerings. For more information, go to https://asf.net/
  • Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, featuring several world-class art collections, the permanent collection of this museum includes 19th and 20th-century American paintings and sculpture, Southern regional art, Old Master prints, and decorative art including works by Hopper, Wyeth, and Dürer. For more information, go to http://mmfa.org/
  • Montgomery Ballet, the only professional ballet company in Montgomery, and one of only three in the state of Alabama, the Montgomery Ballet provides a full season of moving ballet performances. Yearly performances of The Nutcrackerare complimented by other crowd favorites. The Montgomery Ballet School offers a full course of classical ballet education, along with classes in jazz, modern, tap and hip-hop.
  • Museum of Alabama, Interactive exhibits highlight this downtown museum which showcases the history of Alabama, from prehistoric times to the present day. The Museum is located at the Alabama Department of Archives and History (ADAH), the nation’s oldest state-funded, independent archival and historical agency. For more information, go to http://www.museum.alabama.gov/
  • Alabama Dance Theatre,an award-winning regional ballet company with an eclectic repertoire that includes 19thcentury classics as well as new modern and contemporary works. In addition to its public performances, Alabama Dance Theatre hosts a number of educational activities in the community which serve to enhance the cultural life of Montgomery.  For more information, go to http://www.alabamadancetheatre.com/
  • Montgomery Symphony Orchestra, for over 40 years, the Montgomery Symphony Orchestra has played a key role in Montgomery’s artistic community. Performing the great orchestral works, the orchestra has a full calendar of shows geared towards both classical music fans and families looking for a fun evening out. The Broadway Under the Stars Pops Concert is a yearly favorite. For more information, go to http://www.montgomerysymphony.org
  • Foreword South, Foreword South uses an original storytelling system to showcase the Southern identity. Seeking to be inclusive they aim to increase the visibility of Southern visionaries, activists, designers, artists, and change-makers. Foreword South engages consumers on all levels, from social media, long-form narratives, to live events that showcase the diversity of the region. For more information, go to https://www.theforewordsouth.com/
  • 21 Dreams Arts & Culture Collective, provides one of the key resources for artists and art enthusiasts in Montgomery. The collective influences the growth and the value of the arts in Montgomery through public engagement and creative programming ensuring accessibility for all. Each year during National Arts and Humanities Month, the group hosts “Flight of Arts”, a four-day weekend festival of workshops and exhibitions for digital, visual, performing, literary, and culinary arts held in venues around downtown Montgomery. For more information, go to http://21dreamsmgm.org/
  • The Cloverdale Playhouse, a community-based, volunteer-driven performing arts center in Montgomery, Alabama. The Playhouse is dedicated to presenting entertaining, challenging, and innovative theatrical productions, as well as special performances, music series, and educational programs. For more information, go to http://www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org

For more information on Montgomery, go to http://visitingmontgomery.com/

About Montgomery

Situated on the banks of the Alabama River, Montgomery is the capital and the second largest city in the state of Alabama. Established in 1819, Montgomery has been the site of major historic events which have shaped the history of the United States. Emerging from its agricultural roots in the 19th century, Montgomery transformed from the Cradle of the Confederacy to the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement in less than a century. Today, this vibrant river town is experiencing a resurgence which has seen its downtown revitalized and has reestablished itself as a landmark Deep South destination.  Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM) offers non-stop flights on Delta Airlines and American Airlines. For more information, call 334-261-1100 or visit the official website of the Montgomery Convention and Visitor Bureau at http://www.visitingmontgomery.com.  Stay connected with Montgomery on Twitter (@MGMCapitalCool) and Facebook http://www.facebook.com/MontgomeryCapitalCool).

 

ABC /

Talk of Alabama Lifestyle Segment: New Year, New You Beauty Must-Haves

Monday marks the official beginning of the new year!  Everyone’s setting goals and changing their beauty regimen.

I hosted a Lifestyle Segment on Talk of Alabama – ABC 3340; themed “New Year, New You” sharing beauty advice through the use of hair care products.

A few of the tips shared on-air included applying Root Touch-Up, Clip-In Hair Extensions, and It’s a 10 Haircare Products.  This was a fun segment and to showcase the hair extensions I wore a human hair color strip.  Details about the segment included:

Use a Root Touch-Up Marker to cover gray roots without a permanent chemical process.

Insert colored extensions from Hairdo USA for a glamorous hair style without committing to an entirely new hue.  Don’t forget to use a wrap around pony for quick star-worthy style!

It’s a 10 Haircare products are holiday and salon-worth products that can be used at-home.  This product line is a celebrity favorite amongst Gabrielle Union and Gwen Stephani.  The products can be used on all hair types while protecting, smooths, and conditions. This product can even be used on kids and pets! There’s also something for the men in our life!  He’s a 10 Miracle Pliable Paste and 3-in-1 Shampoo/Conditioner/Body Treatment: He’ll love these versatile stylers that glide easily through hair and body with zero sticky residue and a clean feel. These grooming essentials will save men money and time.

Hair:

Root Touch-Up Marker

Human Hair Color Strip

Long Wave Pony

French Braid Band

It’s a 10 Haircare

Hairdo How to Tips and Videos:

Birmingham /

The Joyful Food Co. and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Alabama’s only 100% Paleo-specific bakery has expanded from baked goods to complete Paleo meals. To reflect the changes and updates, the company has rebranded itself as The Joyful Food Co.

The Joyful Food Co. was born as Consider It Joy Baking in 2015, but the idea behind it started a few years earlier because of family health problems.

“Several years ago, my family embraced a grain-free, no processed foods lifestyle to address multiple health issues my son was dealing with, and this meant everything we ate was homemade,” said Elizabeth Wood, the founder.

The changes in diet and lifestyle were a success in Wood’s personal life, but she knew other families were struggling with many of the same issues. While there was vast interest in the Paleo lifestyle by the community, the time commitment, learning curve of new ingredients and the frustration of recipe failures were huge deterrents.

“I wanted to help, so I did the only thing I knew how to do–I baked! We started small as just a bakery, but soon, customers began asking for meals as well,” Wood said.

That’s when Rebecca Wanagat joined the team. Like Wood, she was a mom on a mission, who educated herself on the Paleo lifestyle in a quest to improve her family’s health. Soon the two were selling as many meals as they were muffins! However, many people still weren’t aware of the addition of meal options.

To celebrate the growth, “Consider it Joy Baking” will re-launch as “The Joyful Food Co.” on January 4th, where the community is invited out for a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The ribbon cutting will take place at 11 am and the team will be offering samples for the rest of the day.  They are also planning a huge giveaway for 4 weeks of Paleo bundles ($396 value).

The Joyful Food Co.

https://www.thejoyfulfoodco.com/

759 Shades Mountain Plaza,Hoover, AL 35226

205-538-7967