Date Night: The Original Ninfa’s Uptown Houston

The Original Ninfa’s Uptown Houston

One of our New Year’s resolutions is to spend more time out and about. It’s no secret I am QUEEN of homebodies. I could literally stay in and watch Dateline, ESPN, One Tree Hill or binge watch anything for days on end, but it’s definitely good to get out and explore with people you love.

First up was date night at The Original Ninfa’s Uptown Houston and it did not disappoint (this was Jason’s first time here and he dubbed it “an upscale Mexican restaurant with the best dessert he’s ever had in his entire life”).

Located off Post Oak Boulevard near The Galleria, it’s a bustling and authentic Mexican restaurant perfect for a date night, group dinner or celebrating something (we saw quite a few birthday celebrations and I fully support celebrating with potent margaritas).

The Original Ninfa’s Uptown serves strong and delicious margaritas, which you’d expect in Texas. I always go for the Skinny Margarita ($10), which was perfect and not overpriced like other Houston spots. Next up is either guacamole or queso, which is basically a rite of passage in Texas.

I had my usual for dinner – beef fajitas. I am not lying when I say they are the best in

Fajitas at Ninfa’s Uptown Houston, Photo: Kirsten Gilliam

Houston. One thing to note: here they only come in medium ($29) or large ($42) portions, so they are pricier than most, but well worth it (just talk your dinner partner into sharing and you’ll both be pleased and stuffed!). As for Jason, he went with the pork chop — at a Mexican restaurant, which I found odd, but he was happy to report it was one of the best he’s ever had.

Dessert was where this restaurant really shined, with the Tres Leches ($10), which was delicious and topped with marshmallow and flambeed to order. Jason ordered it and I basically begged him to share it. I would literally go back here just for that – it was that good.

A little about Ninfa’s Uptown:

This is where it all started, where Mama Ninfa first stuffed chargrilled sliced beef into a handmade flour tortilla and launched the national fajita craze. The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation…

The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation was created by “Mama” Ninfa Laurenzo in 1973 after the death of her husband, John. She started by grilling skirt steak and serving it in tortillas from her family’s struggling tortilla factory. The resulting dish – “Tacos al Carbon” (which later became known as “Fajitas”) was the basis for Mama Ninfa’s legend in Houston and in the history of Tex-Mex cuisine. Mama Ninfa passed away in 2001, and in 2005, Legacy Restaurants purchased The Original Ninfa’s. After more than 40 years in business, The Original Ninfa’s opened up a second location and is more popular than ever. Both locations are still serving “The Best Mexican Food in Texas Since Texas was in Mexico!™”

 

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MitoQ Supplements: Improve Energy, Endurance and Recovery Time

MitoQ Supplements: Improve Energy, Endurance and Recovery Time

For 2020 I am coming in hot with some strong commitments – all centered around health and wellness. I’m going to keep working out hard, which is incredibly important to me, but I’m also going to start being proactive about what I put in my body. A doctor once told me – everything you put in your body should be doing work for you (whether it’s your daily intake of water, vitamins and supplements, vegetables, etc.). Taking a proactive approach means doing research. It means trial and error. It means putting in the effort.

With this newfound and proactive commitment in mind, MitoQ entered the picture. “MitoQ is a world-first, mitochondria-targeted CoQ10 antioxidant, which is absorbed through the mitochondrial membrane and directly into the body of the mitochondria, hundreds of times more effectively than regular CoQ10 supplements,” via their website.

I’ll be honest, the concept of mitochondrial health and all that jargon above was completely foreign to me. I obviously know as we get older, our bodies go through some changes. For example, when we are young and healthy, our mitochondria work at maximum efficiency, therefore giving our cells all the energy they need. Remember when you were younger how quickly you could bounce back from injury and illness and now it seems to sideline us much longer? Or is that just me?

Well, according to science, as we age, our mitochondria can start to decline in function naturally —

Do you need support with healthy energy levels?

as much as 10% per decade, starting at the age of 30. That’s kind of alarming, right?

When your body loses something, even naturally with mitochondria producing less antioxidants, it stands to reason they need to be replaced. MitoQ is the most significant advance in antioxidant technology to help deliver health-giving energy to slow the aging process and help boost energy levels.

Do you need support with healthy energy levels? Organ health? Mental focus? Resilience? If you answered no to any of those, you’re probably lying. MitoQ helps your body perform at its best, delivering CoQ10 antioxidant support to your mitochondria to help support your body in those ways mentioned above. Get more information on the science of MitoQ here.

How Has MitoQ Helped Me?

If you’re like me, taking an active role in your health is key. Since taking MitoQ, I have noticed a significant improvement in my energy and endurance, which I knew had been lacking for way too long. I’ve also noticed a more effective sleep at night – not only falling asleep faster, but having a more well-rested night. I’ve only been taking MitoQ for a mont, but they say it could take up to three months to reap the full benefits.

MitoQ

Are you doing anything in the New Year (or have been doing for a while) that has helped increase energy levels? Tell me in the comments below – I’m always looking for impactful and healthy ways to increase my energy and recovery, especially as I’ve gotten older.

*This is a sponsored post. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

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Houston Date Night: Bosscat Kitchen and Libations

Houston Date Night: Bosscat Kitchen and Libations

Here’s another great Houston spot for whiskey lovers and/or date night (not to mention fantasy football draft parties when that time rolls back around) is Bosscat Kitchen and Libations, located off Westheimer, on the cusp of River Oaks District.

I’ve been to (and loved) Bosscat many times, but this was my first time doing date night here, and I seriously lost my mind at the floral walls and decor outside (which I think is new, and pictured here). Jason always rolls his eyes when I see a floral wall, because I can’t resist a picture with it, but that’s just part of our goofy relationship and my job!

This restaurant doubles as one of Houston’s best whiskey bars and is originally from Newport Beach, CA. I seriously can’t give them enough credit – they do everything right. From their food, drink menus, the laid back yet knowledgable servers/bartenders, the decor, the way they run their social media and more, it’s just always a good time and well done. You can tell the folks who run it know business and genuinely care about the brand and product they put in front of customers.

It’s a dimly-lit restaurant, which I think helps set the mood for a date night (either that, or meeting a Tinder date for the first time you may not want to be seen with?).

Dinner here is phenomenal, but I’d also highly recommend their happy hour and weekend brunch, which is the place to be in Houston.

Try the Pork Belly Poutine for a starter (I would advise you to share this with more than one person, because it’s incredibly filling and we forced ourselves to eat it all, it was so good), and the Gulf Shrimp and Grits or 12-Hour Beef Short Rib for dinner.

A lot of their menu is heavy, so keep that in mind when ordering, especially if you want to save room for their “rather large whiskey collection,” which you totally should. I personally am not a big fan of whiskey, but Jason is and took great delight in their selection. I’ll also point out they have a great rosé selection and tons of other cocktails to choose from.

HOURS OF OPERATION

MONDAY – THURSDAY: 11AM – 11PM

FRIDAY: 11AM – 2AM

SATURDAY: 

brunch 11AM – 3PM

dinner 5PM – 11PM

SUNDAY: 11AM – 9PM

brunch 11AM – 3PM

dinner 5PM – 9PM

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Magnolia – Denver and Houston Boutique Hotel – GIVEAWAY

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Denver Boutique Hotel: Magnolia

Getting a chance to explore new parts of the city you live in is always fun. This year for New Year’s Eve, we did a staycation at Magnolia, a Denver boutique hotel  and loved it!

It’s in the heart of downtown Denver, just a few blocks from Union Station, which we walked to the day we arrived. Valet parking was easy and a breeze and the Magnolia hotel had so much unique charm to it. We were able to use the complimentary shuttle service from the hotel to go about a half mile for our dinner reservations at STK (get an espresso martini!) and then walk back and catch the fireworks. Granted we were in bed before the clock struck midnight, but what a joy.

Oh, and we loved the fact it was a pet-friendly Denver hotel, since we just got Perry (isn’t he cute?!).

The service and amenities were great (they do complimentary milk and cookies every night from 8 -10 p.m. but if you aren’t there, you can text the hotel and they’ll have them delivered to your

The Magnolia is a luxury, boutique hotel in Denver (and in Houston!)

room!). How awesome is that?

The next morning we got up and had breakfast at Harry’s, which is a historic local Denver restaurant with just as much character and charm as the hotel. The coffee was hot, the meals were tasty and the service was just as good throughout our stay. It’s the same spot as the hotel bar and the decor is really unique – hung all around you’ll see family photos from the original owners of the hotel. I always find that stuff fascinating.

On the lower level of the hotel, there are a bunch of meeting rooms, but what I loved most was the pool table and sort of impromptu library/reading lounge with books of all genres to pull from. There was so much to see and do in the hotel, but if you know downtown Denver at all, there’s just as much outside!

I’ll dive into my staycation a little more on social media, but for now one of you lucky readers can win a FREE overnight stay + valet at the Houston or Denver Magnolia property. Be sure to enter on Instagram!

Perry Loved Magnolia Denver

Magnolia has properties in Denver, Dallas, Houston, New Orleans, Omaha and St. Louis, so be sure to check them out on your next adventure.

Good luck in the contest. The winner is chosen at random, and not sponsored, endorsed or affiliated with Instagram. Thanks for following The Blonde Side. 

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Starting the New Year Off with New Chapter

Starting my New Year off right with New Chapter®

I always love the start of a New Year, because it’s a somewhat tangible excuse/chance to get back into healthy, daily habits and start to erase some of the bad habits we all tend to partake in (excess drinking, not working out enough, eating out all the time, etc. etc. etc.).

I was recently turned on to New Chapter, which is my #1 key to supporting my ever-changing self-care journey. I personally think we all need to subscribe to a better self-care journey and make it more of a priority. Getting sick or watching loved ones get sick because they didn’t prioritize their health is always hard to watch.

Products I use daily include:

Every Woman™’s One Daily Multivitamin

I take a few supplements and prescription meds (including allergy meds!), and set them aside the night before. Most of them I take after I eat my breakfast and have my coffee, but having them set aside and ready to go really starts my morning off right and into a healthy routine.

What does Every Woman’s One Daily Multivitamin do?

The whole-food fermented vitamins and minerals in Every Woman’s One Daily go beyond just addressing nutrient deficiencies to promote overall health and system-specific benefits.* It delivers superfoods like Ginger, organic Turmeric & Chamomile, expertly formulated for the needs of active

New Chapter® was founded over 35 years ago to bring natural wellness to others.

women.

  • Supports your bone health with fermented Vitamin D3, plus healthy Calcium metabolism with whole-food Vitamin K2‡*
  • Includes B Vitamins for energy support*
  • Supports your immune system function with Vitamins C and A, and fermented Zinc‡, plus complementary Elderberry*

†Emerging studies suggest that taking a daily multivitamin provides support for occasional stress.*
‡Not a sole source of this nutrient; a healthy diet is also important.

Original Plant Protein+

Not only is the vanilla flavor tasty, it’s so easy to incorporate into my morning routine. I add a scoop to my overnight oats and eat it as part of my breakfast, which helps me feed my potential and start my day off on the right foot!

What does Plant Protein+ do?

Fuel your healthy day with 20 grams of vegan protein per serving. Plant Protein+ is packed with plant-sourced goodness, with the right profile of vegan amino acids from our signature blend of protein-rich Mung Beans and Brown Rice, completed with whole-food seeds including Chia, Flax, Hemp, and Pumpkin seed. Supports muscle repair and provides building blocks for bone and tissue.*Available in great-tasting chocolate and vanilla flavors.

Here are a few of my 2020 goals:

  • Wake up by 8a every weekday. This may sound ridiculous or super late for some of you, but when you work for yourself and work from home, this is a challenge for me.
  • Work out 3-4 times a week. This can also include a brisk walk or an at-home video or app, not necessarily at the gym.
  • Learn to manage my anxiety better. This includes what I put into my body, seeking professional help and possibly learning a new way of doing things for me, which will certainly be a challenge.
  • Cram out 30 pitches in the first 3 months. If you don’t put yourself out there, it’s hard to get recognized or get new business. As a freelance writer and micro-influencer, you eat what you kill. Also to note: rejection is part of the territory. 

 

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3 Weeks of Workouts in Denver

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Castle Rock’s Mini Incline

Going to a new city and need to find a new gym and network of workout buddies: scary or exciting?

For me, that’s pretty damn scary, but I also found excitement in this little project I did, so wanted to share.

Here’s what 3 weeks of workouts in Denver looks like. Technically it’s in and around Highlands Ranch, and varied workouts because I don’t have my Houston fit fam at SPENGA. This is also to show you that you don’t need a gym membership to get a good workout in — you can find it pretty much anywhere, and that you can try out a few gyms with a free class here and there, which I tried to highlight free gym classes in Highlands Ranch below.

Day 1: Philip S. Miller Park: Known to locals as the “mini incline” in Castle Rock, this is 200 steps up one time at the Colorado incline, which is tough for a newbie. For my first day, I walked up and trail ran down x3 (2.25mi), did 60 bench pushups + 60 bench dips.

Day 2: Rush Cycle: Here your first class is free if you sign up online. The class was led by Payton who had incredible energy and Jason actually came with me and took advantage of a free class for his first cycling class. Note: the Highlands Ranch Rush Cycle is now closed, but there are a few others in the area.

Day 3: barre3: I am no stranger to asking for free stuff, so I messaged them and they gave me

barre3 Highlands Ranch – mention me for a FREE class!

a free class! Class taught by Stephanie, the studio owner, and I loved the vibe here. “Don’t be afraid of the shake.” You can actually try barre3 in Highlands Ranch and mention me (Jayme) for a FREE class – or message me and I’ll go with you, because I am now a happy member here! 

Day 4: Today I had sore legs and a slight hangover from the Old Dominion concert at Red Rocks so I did a quick 3-mile walk around Highlands Ranch Outdoors trail system (Marcy Gulch Trails) and called it a day. It is still crazy to me how much “free” and open space there is in Denver and Highlands Ranch to get a good hike or walk with a gorgeous view.

Day 5: Daniel’s Park Trail: 4.5-mile hike with views of Colorado Front Range. This is Denver’s Mountain Park in Douglas County, where we live and the trails and options are endless.

Day 6: Did the mini-incline in Castle Rock (see Day 1) with Jason before the Broncos game!

Day 7: barre3 again (again, don’t forget to mention me for a FREE class)

Day 8: Did a simple run/walk around the neighborhood

Hiking Daniels Park in Colorado

Day 9: Waterton Canyon: A beautiful walk/hike along the South Platte River. Along the way you’ll see wildlife, biking, fishing and get a healthy dose of Colorado fresh air.

Day 10: Roxborough State Park: Sunday morning hike along Carpenter Peak Trail, this is a short drive southwest of Denver and provides beautiful scenery. You must pay a park entrance fee or buy an annual pass, which we did. “With close to 4000-acres, Roxborough State Park is filled with dramatic red-rock formations, distinct plant communities and a variety of wildlife ranging from black bears to mule deer. Enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, trail running, photography, bird watching or one of our many programs and events. Whether you are new to the outdoors or an experienced outdoor enthusiast, Roxborough State Park has an opportunity for you,” their website states.

Day 11: barre3

Day 12: RTR Pilates (Rock the Reformer Pilates, via ClassPass): I found this via ClassPass, which is a a premiere reformer Pilates studio that offers group Pilates classes in the DC, Bethesda, McLean, and Highlands Ranch, Colorado areas. I didn’t love this class or setup, but that just shows there’s something different for everyone. Plus, I have a 3-class rule before deciding if like/don’t like a gym or studio.

Day 13: LFT Fitness (Live for This Fitness, via ClassPass): I found this jackpot of a Highlands

Coach Barry and The Blonde Side at LFT in Highlands Ranch/Littleton

Ranch/Littleton gym via ClassPass and have now become a member, I love it so much! For starters, it’s hard AF. It’s a tough workout – similar to CrossFit, but not. The gym is known as the “boom room” and there is a extreme sense of community here, which is great for being new to a city. I’d HIGHLY recommend you check this spot out – mention me (Jayme or The Blonde Side) for a FULL WEEK OF CLASSES FREE.

Day 14: barre3: Now my typical workouts each week consist of 1-2 classes at barre3 Highlands Ranch, 3 classes at LFT and at least 1-2 days outside in the Highlands Ranch trail system or hiking with Jason!

Day 15: Compass Fitness: I found this via ClassPass and the class I took was called Russian Roulette. I actually loved this gym – it was hard, fun and you were in and out. The only downfall, it was a bit too far from our house, so wasn’t an ideal gym on the regular, but if you’re near this spot, check it out!

Day 16: Garden of the Gods: Here we did some casual hiking bc I wasn’t as prepared but definitely plan to be back. “Garden of the Gods Park is a registered National Natural Landmark. Imagine dramatic views, 300′ towering sandstone rock formations against a backdrop of snow-capped Pikes Peak and brilliant blue skies. This world-class Visitor & Nature Center and museum is the most visited attraction in the region with all new interactive exhibits,” the website states.

Jason and I tried Rush Cycle in Highlands Ranch

Day 17: LFT 

Day 18: barre3

Day 19: LFT

Day 20: Row House in Highlands Ranch: Again, I took advantage of their first class free, and signed up for the Body class, which is the only class they offer that uses dumbbells (I used 3lb and 5lb weights) and Troy was a great instructor!

Day 21: Rush Cycle: Again, the Highlands Ranch location has closed but there are others nearby.

Shop some of my favorite workout spots:

lululemon is definitely one of my favorite places to get workout and “errand” clothes.

I wear the Adidas Ultraboost for most of my workouts/runs and couldn’t recommend them more. Or I love the Reebok CrossFit Nano for my LFT workouts or lifting weights (they are too stiff for me to run or do a lot of cardio in).

Carbon38 is also a favorite for workout and athleisure clothes.

I always have my water bottle with me (even when I’m not working out!).

And you can shop a ton of my favorite other spots here.

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The Best 2019 Black Friday Deals on the Internet

A roundup of the best 2019 Black Friday Deals!

If you’d rather hit the big sales online than brave the crazy stores like me, check out these top deals that I rounded up for you.

The below may contain affiliate links – please know I’m super thankful for all you who read/follow The Blonde Side and appreciate you using/sharing the links below.
Happy shopping!
Top Faves: 

DICKS: 25% off everything, including Yeti (and they have sports monogrammed yetis, this stuff never goes on sale) – no code needed, discount applied in cart.

Winc: get your wine delivered at an UNREAL price: $22 discount + complimentary shipping which comes out to 4 bottles of wine for $39!

Walmart: great Black Friday deals as always, check it out online and avoid the lines!

Regular Clothes:

EXPRESS: (men’s and women’s) — jeans are $29, sherpa sweaters are $39, leggings $15 and entire store is 50% off, FREE shipping, no code needed.

Nordstrom: Cyber Sale, up to 50% off – shop Kendra Scott, Uggs, all makeup and jewelry, sweaters, shoes and more.

shopbop: one of my favorite online boutiques has their “buy more, save more” — use code MORE19 to save anywhere from 15-25% off, including sale.

Saks: Good sales going on, but use code THANK19SF to receive a $75 gift card with any purchase over $150 (I use this deal to buy new handbags, or higher priced items).

JCrew: 40% off with code WHYWAIT (if you’re a rewards member, get 50% off with code SHOPFIRST)

GAP: 50% off EVERYTHING, use code BLKFRIDAY

Old Navy: 50% off everything (this is a GREAT place to get stocking stuffers and matching PJs for your family, prices start at $5, no code needed).

Workout Clothes:

Carbon38: I buy 90% of my workout and athleisure clothes here and now it’s 30% off sitewide with code CYBER30.

lululemon: this stuff never goes on sale, but here ya go for Black Friday.

Beyond Yoga: 30% off everything on the site, including sale.

Adidas: up to 50% off (I already checked the site, some great deals going on, like these Women’s Ultraboost that are $80 off and my favorite running/HIIT shoes around).

Outdoor Voices (this brand started in Austin, which I love!): get 25% off leggings with LEGGINGS25

Athleta: 25% off with code LAYERUP

And don’t forget the always popular and easy-to-order Amazon Black Friday deals
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AccuScore: Profitable Sports Betting Analysis

AccuScore: Online Sports Betting (Hello, Bowl Season!)

You had me in three words: profitable sports betting.

That’s what AccuScore claims, and I’ve tried their online system and have been pretty impressed. Over 100 games are analyzed and predicted each week, so it’s another fun way to get involved in your favorite sport or team, where you can either win some bragging rights with friends or perhaps earn some extra money if your picks are successful.

“The simulation model uses past player performances and relates that data to the coming match: team composition, weather, location, coaching… We define each player with a unique algorithm and simulate every match approximately 10,000 times. Our current licensing and subscription services cover all major US sports and top 10 soccer leagues round the world. We provide game predictions as well as individual player performance projections to be used eg. in fantasy sports,” as stated on their website.

I recently used AccuScore to look at some pretty interesting stats during the Astros vs. Nationals World Series. I placed a few bets and came out on top, but given my experience working in sports, simply learning some unique stats (Verlander’s Quality Starts, for instance) was a super cool thing to see (and actually made me feel more prepared and invested in these games than anything Joe Buck said). I also love that they take weather, location (home field advantage for instance) into account, because as sports fans, we all know those play major factors.

Check out this Q&A I had prior to trying AccuScore: 

Can anyone use AccuScore? If not, what are the limitations / restrictions?
A: Yes, anybody can use it. If you are underage and cannot bet or play fantasy sports, you can always chat with your buddies about the games based on Accuscore predictions and other content.

What exactly are you paying for? 
A: A service that gives accurate predictions for sports bettors and fantasy players.

Jayme’s input: Then you take these predictions and place sports bets or use the information for fantasy purposes. Or just use it for your own Trivia Tuesday knowledge or when chatting around with friends.

Would this make a good gift for the holidays? 
A: Naturally we predict every bowl game and NFL playoffs are coming, so the timing to purchase our service for at least a few months during the holidays is advantageous. 

If you could run me through how to use the site – for instance, would I plug in the game I’m interested in (maybe Astros vs Nationals) and get your predictions and then take that info to a third party? What’s the easiest way to use the service?
A: Review the game you are interested in on AccuScore, then place a bet on a sportsbook’s site or use fantasy predictions to pick up your fantasy lineup.

Jayme’s input: If you’re into sportsbooks in Vegas like I am, take this info and put it to the test there. I have a hard time resisting sportsbooks, so having a profitable prediction on hand would be extremely helpful.

So take a minute and check out AccuScore and see if it’s something you want to try for yourself, or gift to the sports lover/bettor in your life.

This should go without saying, but since this relates to sports betting/gambling, please use the site and resources at your own risk. The Blonde Side is not liable for any bets or uses of this site, so please use at your own risk. 

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Holiday Gift Guide: Houston

I will soon be working on a slew of gift guides for everyone on your list, but this one is for my Houston folks. I love supporting local Houston businesses and sharing some great deals and ways to help your local community. (However, if you are doing online shopping, please check out and use these links.)

I’ll be adding to this, but for now, here is my Houston Gift Guide list:

  • ACQUA Med Spa – No matter how old you are or if you’re a man or woman, getting some

    Houston Coolsculpting Deals for the Holidays – Clear Lake Med Spa

    TLC for your skin and body is a gift anyone can enjoy. I will be sharing some of their holiday items, but please note, mentioning me (Jayme or The Blonde Side) will get you 20% off any service or product. Whether you want to get a gift card for a HydraFacial (Alexis and Arika are both amazing at this!), Coolsculpting for you and your bestie or some of the top-ranked Skinceuticals products, these girls can help you. 20% off is super helpful during the holidays, and I think (call them to clarify) they can ship the products or gift cards to you, to make it even easier. Call 281.916.3633 or visit their Clear Lake Med Spa.

    Update —  my fave gals have moved. Braidee who does my injections and BOTOX and I would 10/10 recommend is now at SkinLab with Dr. Roth in West Ave. Click the link to find her and book your BOTOX with her.

  • Tease Color & Style Bar – I have been getting my hair colored (yay for blonde!) and cut here with Roi (one of the owners) for nearly 7 years and I cannot recommend him and his entire team enough. Not only

    Oribe Holiday Gift Set from Houston’s Best Hair Salon, Tease Color & Style Bar

    do they have gift cards for every service/amount, they have amazing holiday sets already puttogether (bows, bags and everything). Whether you want to give someone the gift of perfect travel day hair with a set from Oribe or something else (don’t forget holiday blowouts!), this Houston salon has you covered. Call 281.299.3356 or visit their hair salon located on Richmond Ave. near Kirby.

  • FACEFORWARD – Andrea has done my hair and makeup for

    Support Houston local businesses with this FaceForward Holiday Makeup Kit (limited edition!)

    years and years and years (and my organic spray tan, which I rock before every single beach vacation) and I cannot recommend her enough. She has a limited edition holiday collection she recently partnered with Houston artist Shelbi Nicole, so check that out (it comes with a holiday makeup bag, 5 FaceForward makeup products, a mirror and as an added bonus a complimentary makeup lesson by Andrea herself, but the 20% off discount does not apply to that). If you want to order any makeup products from her website, use code JAYMELAMM for 20% off. The Mineral Sheer Tint Moisturizer is my favorite product of hers that I use, so check that out. The best part about Andrea and FaceForward is she can come to you for makeup lessons and spray tans, so if you’re planning a holiday event with some friends and you all want discounted spray tans or to have her do your hair and makeup all together, be sure to reach out to her ASAP as she fills up fast!

  • Running Game Clothing – Sports fans can rejoice,

    Local Houston Sports Apparel from Running Game Clothing

    because these ALWAYS make the best gifts. Whether you’re a man or woman, Astros, Rockets or Texans fan, this local sports apparel company has something for everyone (and then some). Be sure to use code BLONDESIDE for 10% off your order. I believe they still have a popup set up at Truckyard Houston, or you can order online and get your Houston sports apparel in time for the holidays!

  • Customized Phone Cases by Custom Envy These days almost everyone has a smartphone. As useful as it is, phones these days can be pretty fragile. One drop and you can say goodbye to a perfectly working phone. This makes phone cases essential accessories for every smartphone owner. With customized phone cases, you don’t need to look for the perfect design because you can create it yourself. Add photos, quotes, monograms, illustrations, or graphics to the phone cases to create your design.
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The Maven: Downtown Denver Hotel at Dairy Block

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Win a stay at The Maven, Downtown Denver’s Boutique Hotel in Dairy Block

The Maven is a boutique hotel in downtown Denver, located in Dairy Block, Denver’s newest micro-district complete with bars, local retailers, creators and more.

Also, scroll to the bottom of this post to enter to win a FREE NIGHT at The Maven for their Mavens of Wine Package by leaving a comment.

Upon arriving at the swanky hotel, we noticed the prime location and quickly parked with the friendly valet. Check-in was a breeze, plus we were told we got FREE coffee in the morning from Huckleberry (it was good for regular drip coffee, but splurging for the cappuccino is highly recommended!) and were also given FREE drink tokens to use at the on-site air streamer bar.

After we settled into our well-appointed guest room, we headed street to the downstairs restaurant Kachina Cantina for margaritas and street tacos (guess there is still some Texan in me!). Hotel guests get 1% off, plus the weather was great, so we sat at the outside bar and watched college football.

Then we walked around Dairy Block and explored their 15+ shops (HEYDAY is an adorable

HEYDAY – Women’s Boutique in Downtown Denver, Dairy Block

women’s boutique with lots of local goodies, soft sweaters and holiday gifts!), 18 restaurants and 7 bars and didn’t leave the area once.

After all the shopping, we headed to Denver Milk Market and Jason grabbed a few local IPAs at the Stranded Pilgrim, where we watched more college football and I walked next door to get a rosé on tap at Cellar (I had never had Triennes vin de Provence, FR and it was divine!).

Then we decided to use our complimentary drink tokens at trailer in the lobby of The Maven (which runs from 4-7p) and brought them back to the room. Many hotel guests hung around the hotel lobby and enjoyed them there, which was a happening and fun vibe too.

Talk Denver To Me Art Installation in FREE MARKET

Located in Free Market, we headed to dinner at Bruto (open Tues – Sun 11-7) by Chef Kelly Whitaker was next, where we sat at the bar counter. You must try their sourdough bread with yuku ricotta with a glass of rosé  – it’s more of a lunch spot, but they plan to start offering more dinner-style options, so stay tuned for that.

Next up was probably my favorite part – a wine tasting at Blanchard Family Wines, which is an urban winery outside the back of the Maven. First-generation winery started by two brothers who bonded over wine. Don’t miss their weekday happy hour 2-6p. They always have their own wines but also at least one l featured Colorado wine (this time was Storm Cellar, which had a delightful Dry Riesling). 

Few pro tips about Blanchard Family Wines: If you want to know more about Blanchard or wines in general, ask for a Wine Educator (Jordan was spectacular).

The boldest downtown Denver hotel in the LoDo district: The Maven Hotel at Dairy Block

If you ever want to try a wine that mimics movie theatre butter popcorn, try their Chardonnay – trust me, 100. Surprisingly I liked their Sauvignon Blanc better than their rosé; I guess there’s a first time for everything. They sell to-go bottles, so find your favorite and stock up. This place is virtually a satellite tasting room from Sonoma, so that’s a huge plus for wine lovers.

We went back to our room, slightly buzzed, and enjoyed a wonderful night of sleep thanks to the comfortable bed and overall style of the room.

If you want to win a FREE NIGHT at The Maven plus 2 glasses of wine at Poka Lola and Cellar and 2 wine flights with a chocolate pairing at Blanchard Family Wine, leave a comment below and go enter on Instagram. One lucky winner will be chosen on Friday, November 29th at 5p CST. Winner will work directly with The Maven to book hotel. Good luck and yay for Denver staycations! 

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CREATED BY JAYME LAMM