Tag Archives: Simon Malls

Fashion Valley’s Tree Lighting Celebration Tomorrow 11/12/16!

Tomorrow is Fashion Valley’s Tree Lighting Celebration! It will be an evening packed full of events, leading up to the lighting of the Christmas Tree. We had a great time last year, and I know it will be just as fabulous tomorrow. I’ll be there with my family, and we hope to see you there, too. Cheers!

TREE LIGHTING SCHEDULE OF EVENTS FOR SATURDAY NOVEMBER 12, 2016

HOLIDAY GIFT BAG & PRIZE GIVEAWAY

Simon Welcome Booth next to Sports Fever.

3:00 PM – The first 200 revelers in line to make the nice list will receive Fashion Valley swag bags filled with retailer surprises.

3:00 – 7:00 PM – Register for a chance to win a $250 Simon Giftcard®

HOLIDAY FESTIVAL

3:00 – 7:00 PM – River Plaza, near the AMC Theaters

From the “Letters to Santa” station to the holiday photo booth, there’s lots to do and see at the Holiday Festival. Also, enjoy face painting, holiday crafts, and costumed characters, as we host a festive atmosphere just for kids!

3:30 PM & 4:30PM – Storytime with the Grinch

Come see the Grinch’s heart grow three sizes this Saturday at the Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration! The Grinch himself will stop by and read his story to tell us all just how he stole Christmas. Come experience all the fun.

MAIN STAGE ENTERTAINMENT

4:30 – 6:30 PM – Main Stage near Boudin Bakery

Festive show by the Salvation Army brass band as they perform popular holiday carols.

6:00 PM – Tree Lighting Countdown begins!

Get ready for Santa to flip the switch to light the new 40 foot interactive tree.

MACY’S COURT

After the Tree Lighting, enjoy refreshments provided by Better Buzz and cookies provided by STACKED. Also, make magical memories with your family and have photos taken with Santa at the Santa House in Macy’s Court.

For more information, please visit http://www.shopfashionvalleymall.com or call 619-688-9113.

Follow Fashion Valley on these social media channels:

Twitter: www.twitter.com/fashionvalleyca

Facebook: www.facebook.com/FashionValleyMall

Instagram: www.instagram.com/fashionvalleyca/

(Photo taken at last year’s Tree Lighting Ceremony, post here)

Fashionably Late: Catching Up on 2016 Events!

I know I’ve been very laxed when it comes to my blogging lately, and I apologize! My son has been away at his grandparents in Las Vegas for the last two weeks, so I have to confess that I’ve been catching up on some much-needed sleep. But now to get caught up on my blogging, I’m posting about events that I missed over the last few months. I’ll also be putting up my concert catch up posts and I think I’ll be all caught and ready to put up my newest posts about recent events and product reviews!

DANCE DANCE RESOLUTION – 1/31/16

My husband and I were invited by Delicious Buzz to attend the “Dance Dance Resolution” event presented by the international travel company Gogobot San Diego and a local non-profit organization, The Seany Foundation. It was held at The Rancho Santa Fe Motor Club & Storage and although it was quite the storm outside, it was a fun night of food, drinks, dance battles and pug kisses by Chole (with her mommy Heather of The Stylish Bisou).

THE BEAT CLOTHING SPRING FASHION SHOW – 2/21/16

Back in February, The Beat Clothing stylist Astrid Montalvo invited me to check out her fashion show in Carlsbad. Unfortunately due to some scheduling issues, my niece, Mei-Lin and I missed the actual fashion show, but I got to photograph some of the lovely models afterwards, and Mei snapped a picture of me with Astrid!

LATINO FILM FEST FASHION SHOW AT FASHION VALLEY – 3/18/16

Bloggers were invited to attend Fashion Valley’s 2nd annual “Celebration of Fashion” runway show for the 23rd annual San Diego Latino Film Festival. The event was emceed by Paola Hernández-Jiao and Abelardo Rodriguez and featured men’s and women’s fashion. My favorite was the fringed skirt by Scotch & Soda, featured in the video above. Look at that swing!

BERRY BEST CHOCOLATE FEST – 3/19/16

My mother-in-law had a booth for Bathologie, one of her direct sales companies at The Berry Best Chocolate Fest at Liberty Station, so I took that opportunity to hang out with my son and enjoy the festivities. Rather than all of the wonderful chocolate, Dominic decided he actually loved the Belgian waffles from the Marcel Waffle Truck. I wholeheartedly agree!

RECORD STORE DAY 2016 – 4/16/16

I spent Record Store Day this year at Record City in Hillcrest with my friend Rob and blogger friend Laura of Laura Neuzeth. This was probably the most organized RSD I had ever been to, and I think I found a new spot for every RSD from now on! The trick is to get there incredibly early (I got there by 5:30 am and there were still people there before me) to ensure you get your choice of what you want. They didn’t have everything that I wanted from “The List” (post about it here), but I did come away with an awesome haul!

SPRING FLING EVENT AT GO GIRL SPA – 4/23/16

Also back in April, I attended the “Spring Fling Event” at Girl on the Go, a night spa in the Golden Hill area. I enjoyed the free cocktails, hanging out for a bit with Tatum from Love Tatum, and then I purchased a little something from Style on the Go. Of course, since the Marcel Waffle Truck made an appearance, I had to bring something home for Dominic!

Find Your “Summer Essentials” at Fashion Valley!

Can you believe it’s 4th of July weekend already? Where did the time go? If you’re still trying to figure out what to wear or pack for the upcoming season, I’ve teamed up with Fashion Valley to share some of my favorite summer picks and I’m also giving away a $100 gift card to get you started! I recently ran around Fashion Valley to show you some of favorite “Summer Essentials” all available now!

FABULOUS FLATS

There really isn’t a better way to run around during the summer than in flats. I know a recent blogger favorite are a cool pair of sneakers (which I own many of), but my favorite flats for the summer are lace-up sandals, slides and mules. I like lace-up sandals because they can be worn casually with a great pair of shorts or wide-legged cropped pants, or dressed up with a cute little sundress.

Slides and mules are my favorite shoes of the moment because they’re so easy: slip them on and off you go! For the beach, the slides are the perfect alternative to flip-flops. For everywhere else, mules feel so preppy, yet modern. They’re like really dressy bedroom slippers!

Clockwise from Top left: The Bridget Lace-Up Sandal in Thai Chili by Madewell; The Boardwalk Lace-Up Sandal in Heather Soot Metallic by Madewell; The Willa Slide Sandal in English Saddle by Madewell; French Connection slip-on loafers from Bloomingdale’s (no longer available, but they have a great selection of mules and slip-on loafers available!)

SHORT STORY

Shorts are a summer staple, but they don’t need to be basic. Check out the scalloped edge pull-on shorts below at Madewell. Aren’t they adorable?

Denim cut-offs just scream summer to me. I always prefer a raw edge when it comes to my denim shorts, like the ones below from Madewell.

Scallop-Hem Pull-On Shorts in Coastal Blue and True Black; Denim Boyshorts in Thornecliff Wash, all by Madewell

BEYOND BASICS

I have my go-to items that create my “uniform”, which consist of striped t-shirts, great pants and easy dresses. I also choose items that are easy to mix and match, stretching your wardrobe to more than just basics.

Radio Tee in Delray Stripe by Madewell

Cropped Wide-Leg Chinos by Pilcro in Sand at Anthropologie

Cleophee Tunic Dress by Cloth & Stone in Mint at Anthropologie

PURPOSEFUL PURSES

I could spend all day on the subject of purses, but for the summer, I like to stick to the most practical: totes and cross-bodies. Totes provide the room needed to carry all of my loved one’s essentials to the beach or outdoor family gatherings. Cross-body purses are the best for amusement parks and exploring anywhere!

Pomaria Tote at Anthropologie

The Holepunch Transport Tote in English Saddle (leather) by Madewell

The Brisbane Camera Bag in Dried Rose and The Transport Tote in Dark Cocoa, both by Madewell

The Take Two Connor Handbag in Purple Wonderwall and The Take Two Abbot Handbag in Black Island Style, both by Kipling

The New Addison Crossbody Bags by Kipling

THE FINAL TOUCHES

These are my final go-to items for the summer: hats, sunnies, sunblock and lip balm. The hats and sunglasses below are not just cute, but incredibly necessary if you’re going to be under the sun for longer periods of time. You will always find me in a hat and sunglasses, especially at the San Diego County Fair. And if you are going to be out and about in the sun, I highly recommend the Super Fluid Sunscreen and #1 Lip Balm at Kiehl’s, which I restock again and again.

Hat assortment at Anthorpologie

The Row Parquet sunglasses by Oliver Peoples

Super Fluid Sunscreen and Lip Balm #1, both by Kiehl’s

THE GIVEAWAY DETAILS!

1. Find and “Like” the picture below on Instagram

2. Follow @fashionvalleyca and @any2ndnow on Instagram

3. Leave a comment telling me about your favorite “Summer Essential” at Fashion Valley mall

4. Tag a friend for a bonus entry!

Winners will be chosen at random by July 8, 2016 midnight PST and is open to those living in the San Diego area or nearby cities.

Good luck and have a wonderful holiday!

Mother’s Day Events at Las Americas & Carlsbad Premium Outlets!

If you still haven’t solidified your plans for Mother’s Day, there are some fun things happening at two of my favorite outlets: Las Americas and Carlsbad Premium Outlets! Both locations will have a “We Love Mom” photo booth and Brand Ambassadors to help you find the perfect gift for mom:

Brand Ambassadors available noon to 4pm

The ambassadors will be interacting with shoppers and handing out Mother’s Day promotional rack cards, which contain additional deals for those in search of special Mother’s Day gifts. Shoppers can also search #foundatsimon on social media for deals and Mother’s Day gift ideas from bloggers in their local community.

Check out additional details below!

Las Americas Premium Outlets

May 6 to May 8, 2016

Moms and shoppers who spend $250 or more, or purchase a Simon gift card for $250 or more will receive a complimentary Mother’s Day Gift!

Carlsbad Premium Outlets

May 6 to May 8, 2016

On Saturday, May 7, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. guests can treat mom to a fun, fashion-focused experience where shoppers can enjoy makeup application tutorials, and retailer product displays showcasing gift ideas for the extra special woman of the hour. The soiree will include informal modeling hosted by Under Armour, bra fitting sessions by Jockey, a cooking demo from Le Creuset, jewelry cleaning and inspection from Zales, Wetzel’s Pretzels samples, and a display from Clarks.

Last Minute Mother’s Day Gift Guide!

In the past couple of years, I’ve posted a “Last Minute Holiday Gift Guide” to help those of you who are procrastinators (like me) get through the Christmas holiday. Although I missed Valentine’s Day, I’m going to start putting together some “Last Minute Gift Guides” for other special occasions. Not only will it help me get creative with my own gift giving, but I hope it will help you as well! For this Mother’s Day version, I’ve gathered ideas from stores at Fashion Valley Mall to help with giving your mom (and mine) something unique on her special day!

The “Go-To” Gift

A New Purse – This is a great “go-to” gift because it’s easy and if your mom is like mine, anything practical will do just fine. As I’ve mentioned before, my mom is a big fan of Kipling (2nd floor), so getting her something she will like immediately is a snap. My mom loves backpacks or cross-body purses, and there are so many fun styles and colors to choose from.

Jewelry – This is always a great “go-to” because if you get something your mom loves, you have the pleasure of seeing it on her all the time. I think charm bracelets are wonderful because you can pick out charms that are meaningful to the both of you. If you are not worried about a budget, Tiffany & Co (2nd floor) has gorgeous bracelets and charms in sterling silver, rose gold and gold. If you are looking for more wallet friendly bracelets and charms, Swarovski (2nd floor) has a lovely little selection that will be easier on on your pocketbook.

Quality Time

Day Spa – There are two day spas at Fashion Valley: Carlton Hair (1st floor) and Happy Nails (1st floor). Gift cards are available at both locations to give any mom a wonderful full day of pampering from head to toe!

Brunch and a Movie – Treat your mom to a mid-morning meal and movie, all at Fashion Valley! True Food Kitchen (1st floor) is one of my favorite restaurants there, and they have a healthy and oh-so-delicious brunch menu. Then take her to see a new flick at AMC Fashion Valley 18 (2nd floor), maybe the upcoming Captain America: Civil War?

Bring it on Home

Home Cooked Meal – How about some pampering at home? Either cook something special for mom or get her some new gadgets if she’s the culinary wizard at Williams-Sonoma (2nd floor). I’m a baker myself and there are just so many cool things to find there for anyone who wants to dabble in cookery.

(Pictured: Mother’s Day Cookie Gift Box & Williams-Sonoma Goldtouch Nonstick 6-Piece Essentials Bakeware Set from their official website)

New Parking Guidance System

If you’re a regular shopper at Fashion Valley (like me), then I’m sure you’re already aware of this awesome bit of news: The guess work has now been taken out of the parking situation with their new “parking guidance system” that helps inform you of how many spaces are available! This new system is available at all eight of their parking garages (structures A through H).

FTC Disclosure: This post was sponsored by Fashion Valley

Celebrate Children’s Day at Las Americas Premium Outlets this Weekend!

It’s been a busy week of events, but I want to make sure you know about as many as I can post!

In anticipation of Mother’s Day events, Las Americas Premium Outlets has a fun day for the kids this Saturday. Check out all of the information below!

Las Americas Premium Outlets will also be hosting special activities and giveaways for kids in celebration of Children’s Day. On Saturday, April 30, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m., the center will provide arts and crafts, a clown who will be handing out balloon animals and a chocolate covered treats station with Godiva Chocolatier. Skechers will also be handing out coloring books for kids to take home and enjoy.

For more up-to-date news and events, please follow Las Americas Premium Outlets on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Checking Out The Carlsbad Flower Fields & Premium Outlets

I’m not sure if you’ve noticed, but I have been spending a lot of time up in Carlsbad lately. Although I’ve lived in San Diego my whole life, I rarely got the chance to get to know the North County because when I was younger, it always seemed so far away. That has definitely changed, and I was recently invited as a blogger to re-explore a couple of my favorite places in Carlsbad during a media day: The Flower Fields and The Premium Outlets. I remember once going to The Flower Fields with my dad because he was such a plantsman. Then I went a few times after, most recently last year (post here). But this was the first time I actually rode the tractor and toured the entire grounds of The Flower Fields in-depth, really learning about the family behind the beautiful gardens. The Ecke Family currently owns the land and we had the pleasure of Paul Ecke III giving us the tour of his family’s farm. There really is so much more to explore at The Flower Fields, as you can see in the pictures below. The Flower Fields will be open until May 8, and you can purchase tickets here.

After exploring The Flower Fields, bloggers were treated to lunch at Blaze Pizza, then toured the Carlsbad Premium Outlets with Terri Mannes, General Manager and Janissa Reyes, Director of Marketing and Business Development, both of Carlsbad Premium Outlets. Thank you to Noelle of Curator PR for the invite and to everyone at The Flower Fields and The Premium Outlets for a fun-filled day of exploring and shopping!

Fun Facts about The Flower Fields:

– There are over 70 million flowers!

– Most of the flowers in the main field are ranunculus, also known as the Persian Buttercup.

– Ranunculus are native to Asia and are normally a cold season plant.

– The seeds are kept in a 32 degrees cooler, then planted.

Our souvenir bouquets of beautiful ranunculus to take home!

Paul Ecke III mentioned they purchased all of the pieces in their Santa’s Playground from the original Santa’s Village in Arrowhead. He had a bidding war with Paul Rubens (aka Pee Wee Herman) on one of the mushrooms!

Being silly with Laura of Laura Neuzeth at Santa’s Playground!

In addition to Santa’s Playground, kids can pan for treasures at The Carlsbad Mining Co!

We didn’t get a chance to try it, but I want to come back with my husband and son to take on the Sweet Pea Maze!

Events can be held at Ecke Family Barn, which has an additional seating area for an outdoor affair!

The Ecke Family are known for their poinsettia, grown beautifully in their greenhouse.

I’m sure it’s the influence of my dad, but orchids are one of my favorite flowers, and The Cymbidium Orchids Greenhouse had some gorgeous ones that I’m sure my father would have loved!

My humble attempt at emulating Anton Corbijn’s photographic style (blurry forefront, clear background).

Paul Ecke III, Angelica Banales of IMW Agency and grower Jess Williams of Mellano & Company, our hosts and tour guides at The Flower Fields.

Lunch c/o Blaze Pizza, which makes artisan pizzas from their established menu or you can have them create a custom pizza from their selection of toppings. That blood orange lemonade is fantastic!

(Photo courtesy of Carlsbad Premium Outlets’ Twitter page)

All of the bloggers who attended that day, including some of my fellow San Diego Style Bloggers!

Somehow I always end up at Kate Spade when I shop at the Carlsbad Premium Outlets!

This was an awesome goodie bag!

(All photos taken by me, except where noted)

FTC Disclosure: Bloggers were treated to a tour of The Flower Fields, and we received a gift card as a courtesy to enjoy the Carlsbad Premium Outlets, but not as compensation for this post. Although I did receive a gift card, the opinions in this post are strictly my own.

Santa Is Waiting For YOU at Fashion Valley!

This Saturday marked our third year taking pictures with Santa at Fashion Valley’s Santa Photo Experience. This was by far the easiest year yet because we got his photos completed in the first week of December (rather than the third), and we did it by appointment straightaway, not having to brave the line at all! I’m so glad we did because even with our appointment, we still were able to sneak in a bit early because we had the very first appointment at 10:35 am. We finished with his photo within about 10 minutes, and were able to get in an early day of shopping, eating and enjoying the holiday sights at Fashion Valley. I ended up choosing the “Photo Package Plus Accessory” plan, which really provided the best choice for the price (which included the multi-image CD). To help save time when you visit the Santa Photo Experience, click the following link to make your reservation!

http://noerrsanta.com/simon/

It’s amazing how much he grows each year! I hope he can still sit on Santa’s lap next year!

Also new at Fashion Valley (and Carlsbad Premium Outlets) is Simon Magazine. It’s available at both locations in limited quantities, but if you already subscribe to a Condé Nast publication, you will get a copy of your own.

The first issue looks amazing!

“SIMON AND CONDÉ NAST LAUNCH LUXE LIFESTYLE PUBLICATION SIMON MAGAZINE AVAILABLE NOW AT FASHION VALLEY AND CARLSBAD PREMIUM OUTLETS

Luxury focused fashion, beauty, travel and culture glossy available this holiday season

Fashion Valley and Carlsbad Premium Outlets are pleased to offer shoppers Simon Magazine, a 98-page, high-end lifestyle publication designed to provide readers with the latest must-haves and must-dos, from fashion and beauty, to dining and travel. A limited supply is available to shoppers at Fashion Valley’s Guest Services, located on the lower level underneath AMC Theatres, near Banana Republic. Copies are also available at Carlsbad Premium Outlets’ Information Center, located behind Gap.

The premiere edition of Simon Magazine, produced in collaboration with Condé Nast, features diverse content including covetable gift ideas, an A to Z listing of cultural event happenings around the world, rising technology stars and the gadgets of the future that are here today. The magazine will reach select Simon locations just before the holiday season.”

FTC Disclosure: I received a gift card as a courtesy to enjoy the Simon® Santa Photo Experience, but not as compensation for this post. Although I did receive a gift card, the opinions in this post are strictly my own.

Celebrating the Holidays at Fashion Valley!

Well, happy Black Friday everyone! If you’re like me, you’re already out there, ready to take on the ultimate in holiday shopping after spending time with loved ones on Thanksgiving. While out shopping, don’t forget to stop by Fashion Valley Mall because not only can you get in some major holiday shopping with over 200 stores, but you can also get that special photo for your little one at the Santa Photo Experience, and celebrate in style with seasonal events, like the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony we attended last week. I’ve included some of the pictures I took at the Tree Lighting Ceremony, as well as some information on Santa’s schedule and other special holiday events taking place at Fashion Valley. If you plan on getting pictures with Santa, be sure to schedule your visit ahead by visiting http://noerrsanta.com/simon/, like I did for Dominic. Have a great weekend!

The evening was hosted by Robert Santos of 10 News San Diego

Top photo: The Instagram picture of Dominic in his reindeer antlers and light-up nose (given out free that night), ended up being reposted by Fashion Valley!

Popular holiday carols were provided by the Salvation Army Brass Band

Santa arriving at the Tree Lighting Ceremony!

Let the holiday celebration begin!

Dominic met actor Corbin Bernsen, who co-hosted the event. Such a nice (and funny) guy!

After the Tree Lighting Ceremony, everyone was treated to snacks and activities next to the Santa Photo Experience. Dominic definitely took part by making a Penguin Ornament, and also crafted a Candy Cane Reindeer!

Some of the holiday events and the schedule for the Santa Photo Experience, which runs now through December 24, 2015.

“Shop Under The Stars” For Charity at Carlsbad Premium Outlets!

I love shopping for a good cause, and here’s a great one at Carlsbad Premium Outlets this Monday, cheers!

Carlsbad Premium Outlets is set to host its 11th Annual Shop under the Stars charity fundraiser event on Monday, November 2, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. in Center Court.

“Shop Under the Stars is great way to kick off the season of giving,” said Janissa Reyes, Director of Marketing and Business Development. “Check off your holiday to-do list while doing something great for the community as well.”

Meant to raise funds for local charities, 100 percent of ticket sales from the event will benefit the following organizations:

·      Boys & Girls Clubs of Carlsbad

·      National Multiple Sclerosis Society – Pacific South Coast Chapter

·      Rady Children’s Hospital Auxiliary

·      Simon Youth Foundation

Tickets can be purchased at the Carlsbad Premium Outlets Information Center, by visiting http://shopunderthestars2015.eventbrite.com or from any of the participating charities. A limited number of tickets are available.

Tickets cost $30 in advance and $40 at the door. Raffle tickets can be purchased for $5 each, or 5 for $20. Guest can also receive one free ticket for every $50 purchase at participating merchants including Godiva, Kipling, Theory, and more. Raffle prizes include perfume sets, Oakley and Solstice merchandise, accessories, shopping sprees to Clarks Bostonian, Ecco, PacSun, and more.

Each ticket to the event includes complimentary hors d’oeuvres, a souvenir tote with exclusive store savings and gift items and access to live entertainment, raffle drawings and a silent auction, which includes Coach and Vince handbags and multiple shopping sprees at Barneys New York Warehouse, Elie Tahari, Le Creuset, and more.

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