Meet Kat Von D, Kate Walsh, Solange Knowles, Josie Maran and HBO® series, True Blood’s™, Kristen Bauer at Sephora’s Fashion’s Night Out!
Aug 25, 2011 Author: Katie Lara | Filed under: Beauty, Celebs, Fashion, NYC Activities
SEPHORA Brings the Hottest Names in Beauty to New York
for Fashion’s Night Out on September 8, 2011
This September 8th, Sephora will be hosting interactive events at nine of their Manhattan locations in celebration of Fashion’s Night Out, the most anticipated global fashion initiative of the year. Sephora has pulled out all the stops to make this year one to remember with help from the hottest names in beauty making personal appearances, including Kat Von D, Kate Walsh, Solange Knowles, Josie Maran and HBO® series, True Blood’s™, Kristen Bauer. That’s not all! Exclusive products from your favorite beauty brands Stila, Nails Inc., Make Up For Ever and Urban Decay will be available at all nine Sephora locations on this night only.
Sephora 5th Ave
597 Fifth Ave b/w 48 and 49
· Watch Supermodel Josie Maran Shoot Her New Campaign 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Meet Supermodel and Chief Chicological Officer Josie Maran as she shoots her latest campaign live in Sephora’s window. After, Josie will meet with clients to give beauty tips and tricks.
· Groove with Carol’s Daughter “Spokesbeauty” Solange Knowles 9:30 pm
Experience Carol's Daughter's styling bar while celebrity DJ Solange Knowles drops a beautiful beat. Starting at 6:00 pm, three stylists will provide four styling options, Mohawks, Fishtail Braids, Modern Updo and Hair Accessories, inspired by "spokesbeauties" Solange Knowles and singer Cassie.
· Star in your own Smashbox Studios Photo Shoot 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Smashbox believes that life is your photo op and the world is your set—receive Smashbox color touch-ups before striking a pose with famed photographer and Smashbox co-founder Davis Factor.
· Ask An Expert
Calling all beauty enthusiasts! Have the chance to meet the most famed beauty experts in the industry on one of the most exciting and fashionable nights. Have your questions on hand and get ready to heed advice from these well-known industry names:
o Sarah Brown, Beauty Director of Vogue
o Wende Zomnir, Co-Founder & Executive Creative Director of Urban Decay Cosmetics
o Kate Somerville, Founder of the Kate Somerville Skin Health Experts Clinic in Los Angeles, creator of the Kate Somerville Skin Care line of products, and author of the book "Complexion Perfection"
o Oscar Blandi, hair extraordinaire and renowned stylist to the stars
· Meet celebrity esthetician Kate Somerville
Discuss your skincare concerns with celebrity esthetician and creator of Kate Somerville Skin Health Experts product line.
· Talk tips with Nails Inc. founder Thea Green
Learn creative tricks from Thea, the founder of the most fashion-forward nail brand from across the pond. She’ll give tips on how to wear the hottest shades and special effects polishes.
· Meet Actress Kate Walsh
Take a cue from Actress & Entrepreneur, Kate Walsh and receive the perfect red lip application from a Sephora Makeup Expert. Kate will be on-site to help clients choose the perfect red lip color. Meet Kate’s “Boyfriend” and get ready for a night out on the town.
Sephora 5 Times Square
200 West 42nd at 7th Ave
· True Blood® actress Kristin Bauer
Get eternally glamoured by the tarte™ for True Blood™ collection, inspired by the HBO® series. Pose for a picture with True Blood’s Kristin Bauer or stop by for a makeover with tarte’s artistry team. Whether you’re a supernatural beauty or a vampy vixen, this collection contains versatile shades to take you from dawn to dusk, and well into the night. Plus, you’ll have a chance to win tarte™ for True Blood™ prizes, including the limited-edition palette, natural cheek stain and LipSurgence™ natural lip tint. Will you be turned?
· Special Musical Performance by TV Star and Tattoo Artist Kat Von D 9:00 pm
Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime, two song performance featuring tattoo artist, TV star, and beauty brand creator, Kat Von D on piano and vocals by Singer/Songwriter/Producer Linda Perry.
· Stand in the Spotlight with Caudalie Founders
Caudalie founders Bertrand and Mathilde Thomas invite you to “Bare It All” for a Film Noir designed portrait shot styled by Mathilde, featuring personal items from Mathilde’s boudoir and photographed by Bertrand.
· Explore body art designs with Urban Decay’s Wende Zomnir 9:00 pm-10 pm
Urban Decay’s cofounder and executive creative director Wende Zomnir will be on hand to show off their exclusive Fashion’s Night Out Starlight Glitter Body Art and new fall makeup collection.
· Curl Consultations by Ouidad’s team of Stylists 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm
A team of Ouidad experts will offer complimentary hair styling with looks borrowed from the runways, curl consultations, product recommendations and free product samples for hair of all textures.
Sephora Times Square
1500 Broadway b/w 43 and 44
· Meet Actress Kate Walsh
Take a cue from Actress & Entrepreneur, Kate Walsh and receive the perfect red lip application from a Sephora Makeup Expert. Kate will be on-site to help clients choose the perfect red lip color. Meet Kate’s “Boyfriend” and get ready for a night out on the town.
· Meet Lancôme Video Makeup Artist Michelle Phan 7:00 – 9:00 pm
Celebrate the launch of the Lancôme HYPNÔSE Doll Lashes Mascara with Michelle Phan, Lancôme video makeup artist and YouTube™ sensation.
· Expert Advice from Park Avenue dermatologist, Dr. Sadick 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Come in for a personalized skin consultation with one of the top dermatologists in the country, Dr. Neil Sadick. Turn back the hands of time and reveal flawless, gorgeous skin, no appointment necessary.
· Get perfect brows by Anastasia herself
Meet famed eyebrow queen Anastasia Soare and her team of brow and makeup artists who will help you to achieve the perfect brows and eye look as seen on the runway with step by step demonstrations.
· Hair Styling by ghd
Be styled by the best from ghd’s artistic team and learn how to use your ghd styler to create the fashion forward looks inspired by Katy Perry and the Era’s Collection.
Sephora Soho
555 Broadway b/w Prince and Spring
· Love Your Lashes with Make Up For Ever
MAKE UP FOR EVER encourages you to embrace your love for lashes by creating custom faux lashes at the first-ever “Lash Lounge.” Lash Tenders will be on-hand to help you choose your favorite lash style and more! For those in need of a little inspiration, MAKE UP FOR EVER is also creating an official Fashion’s Night Out inspired lash that will be available for purchase at all nine locations. Lash purchase required for participation.
· Meet the Stila Pro Team
Sit down with the Stila Pro Team at the Beauty Studio and get a makeover and personal consultation while Stila’s professional fashion illustrators sketch your very own iconic Stila Girl.
· Rejuvenate at the Fresh Lip Lounge
Pamper yourself with high performance bath, body and lip products from Fresh at the Fresh Lounge. Sit back, relax and indulge in the menu of services all featuring your favorite Fresh products.
· Get your hair styled by Rita Hazan
Rita Hazan adds a splash of color to kick off Fashion’s Night Out at Sephora Soho! Join other fashionistas as they get to the root of hair coloring and styling from the renowned celebrity colorist, and watch as a professional graffiti artist transforms a canvas using Rita Hazan Root Concealer.
Sephora Union Square
45 East 17th Street b/w Union Square West and Park Avenue South
· Meet Jewelry Designer Tarina Tarantino
Meet accessories designer Tarina Tarantino and be the first preview the new TARINA TARANTINO Sparklicity Holiday Collection presented exclusively at Sephora! While there, enter the sparkle factory, pose for photos with Tarina’s Sparkle girls and enter for a chance to win a sparkling assortment TARINA TARANTINO accessories and beauty items.
· Get a Laura Mercier Makeover
Update your makeup look with the help from the Laura Mercier team with a special appearance by Global Brand Ambassador Matin Maulawizada. As one of the most sought after fashion and celebrity makeup artists, Matin is on hand to give you a new flawless look and pose for a photo.
· Discover GLO Science at Sephora
Meet America's oral-health expert and GLO Science founder Dr Jonathan B. Levine, DMD. Experience the groundbreaking, teeth whitening technology with the first ever at-home whitening system— using Guided Light Optics heat and light innovation—for professional quality results. Clients who receive a personal smile consultation with Dr. Levine will also get a free extra GLO Brilliant Whitening Mouthpiece when you purchase a GLO Brilliant Personal Teeth Whitening Device so you can share a brilliant smile with a friend, especially for Fashion’s Night Out!
· Face-Time with Dr. Murad
America's Dr. answers your personal skincare questions during one-on-one client consultations.
Sephora Flatiron
119 Fifth Avenue at East 19th Street
· Meet Simone Legno, creator of tokidoki
Watch as tokidoki designer and Italian artist Simone Legno brings his collection to life as he creates a giant mural inspired by the upcoming 24-Karat holiday collection. While there, pose for photos with “24 karat gold” male models and enter for a chance to win a tokidoki 24 karat skateboard deck signed by Simone Legno ($60 value).
· Lash-Out with Hourglass
Desire femme fatale lashes? Stop by the lash clinic hosted by beauty expert Carisa Janes and sample the new cult eye product: Film Noir Lash Lacquer.
· Get your skincare questions answered by DDF's creator, Dr. Sobel 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Dr. Sobel answer’s your personal skincare questions during one-on-one client consultations
· Styled by Sultra
Sit down for a free styling session with Omar Lopez and his team of hairstylists, and experience Sultra's new 3/4" bomb shell curling iron.
Sephora 34th Street
130 West 34th Street b/w 7th and Broadway
· Meet Celebrity Makeup Artist from “The Rachel Zoe Project” 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Learn A-List secrets behind Paparazzi Proof makeup looks from celebrity makeup artist, Joey Maalouf. Treat yourself to TEMPTU’s signature red carpet look and get ready to stop traffic with your Flawless Radiance.
· Express Yourself with NAILS Inc.
Meet and greet Thea Green, founder of one of UK’s most fashion forward nail brand that just landed at Sephora and get tips and tricks of how to wear the latest nail trends. While learning about this coveted nail collection, Sephora invites you to get polished at the new Sephora Nail Studio Art + Lacquer featuring XpresSpa.
· Meet Clarisonic creator and treat yourself to a mini facial 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Find out about Clarisonic’s cutting-edge technology firsthand with a complimentary mini-facial. When you are finished pampering you skin meet creator Dr. Robb Akridge to learn more about this breakthrough skincare system and be introduced to the new Clarisonic Mia Skyline, exclusive to New York City.
Sephora Lexington
711 Lexington Avenue b/w East 57 and 58
· Meet Tokyo's Hello Kitty designer Yuko Yamaguchi 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Meet Tokyo's Hello Kitty designer Yuko Yamaguchi and Hello Kitty. Be the first to see the new Hello Kitty Film Noir Holiday collection presented exclusively at Sephora! Make your FNO Hello Kitty purchase even more memorable and enjoy free engraving on select Hello Kitty items.
· Dr. Gross Answers Your Skincare Questions
Dr. Dennis Gross, dermatologist to the stars, rolls out the red carpet and provides one-on-one skin consultations. While there also receive an express facial dubbed “The Park Avenue Peel”!
· Get Brow Beautiful with Benefit
For one-night-only, purchase Benefit Brows A-Go-Go Kit and receive complimentary brow arch services from a professional on-site Benefit Aesthetician (with $50 purchase of the kit). Go-go your way to glam and get top tips from Benefit National Brow Experts and Benefit Brand Authority Maggie Ford Danielson.
· Lip Envy with Bite Beauty
Discover your perfect antioxidant rich pout with the help from Bite Beauty makeup artists.
Sephora Columbus Circle
10 Columbus Circle on Broadway b/w 58 and 60
· Get your photo taken with the Buxom Girls
Go for the bold and embrace vivid color with the help from Buxom and Bare Escentuals. Take your pick from a variety of stunning lip shades of Buxom® Big & Healthy™ Lip Polish and bareMinerals® Pretty Amazing™ Lipcolor and pucker up for the camera! Just for trying, you’ll receive a sample of Buxom Lash Mascara to go along with your luscious look-at-me lips.
· Have a portrait drawn with Peter Thomas Roth’s new liner Starting at 8:00 pm
Let Peter Thomas Roth show you how to achieve lashes to die for and get your portrait drawn with his new eyeliner. Artists will be on hand.
· Achieve glowing skin with St. Tropez tanning experts Starting at 6:00 pm
Learn how to get the perfect faux glow/ a flawless faux glow from St. Tropez team of skin-finishing experts. They will be providing arm and leg consults.
Smartypanties.com Safety Reminder! How to Stay Safe During a Thunderstorm!
Aug 24, 2011 Author: Katie Lara | Filed under: Health, Lifestyle, Love and Travel
Even though we’re no longer seven years-old and don’t hide under the bed when we hear a clap of thunder (okay, some of us do…whatever!), thunderstorms are still dangerous! While out at Long Beach not long ago, as thunder and lightning struck we ran for shelter and I realized I really didn't know what I was supposed to do if I was stuck outside.
Do you know that according to NYC Hazards website that lightning kills more people each year than tornadoes! So be smart during thunderstorms! Here are some tips to remember that I adapted from NYC.gov. (As always I'm no doctor but here are just some tips I am going to personally follow).
If You Are Inside (This does not include bus-stops or other small structures):
The safest place to be during a thunderstorm is indoors. Remember the 30/30 Rule. If you see lightning, count the seconds before you hear thunder. If it's less than 30 seconds, take cover. Once indoors, wait 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder before venturing back out.
Do not use the telephone or any electrical appliance connected to the building's electrical wiring.
Don’t use any of the building’s plumbing! (Showers, sinks, or anything connected to the building's plumbing. If lightning strikes the building, the current could flow through the wiring or pipes and electrocute you.
Cars can protect you from a storm but don’t touch metal inside the car.
If You Are Caught Outside
Stay away from tall, isolated objects (trees, poles, etc.) You want to avoid open flat areas like parking lots or fields. Basically, you don’t want to be the highest object.
Stay away from lakes, ponds, railroad tracks, and fences, which could carry current from a distant lightning strike.
***If you can’t find shelter, crouch down, grab your ankles and bend forward, so that your head is not the highest part of your body and your head does not touch the ground. I specifically remember thinking—oh I’ll just lie on the ground! But that’s the worst thing to do! NEVER lie flat on the ground.
If You Are Driving During a Thunderstorm
Turn on your lights, Pull over if you can (away from trees or anything that could fall on your vehicle). Stay in the car and turn on the hazard lights until the heavy rain subsides.
Avoid contact with metal or conducting surfaces outside the inside the vehicle. Lightning that strikes nearby can travel through wet ground to your car.
Avoid flooded roadways. The depth of water is not always obvious.
If You Find Someone Struck by Lightning
Call for help! Give First Aid. Call 911 or your local ambulance service. Get medical attention as quickly as possible. (Of course I’m no doctor so I have no idea what to tell you re: mouth to mouth, etc.)
Also, FYI people struck by lighting don’t have an electrical charge so you can examine them safely (so NYC.gov says).
Funniest App I’ve Seen!
Aug 22, 2011 Author: Katie Lara | Filed under: Giggles, LOL, Lifestyle, Love and TravelMy most favorite app I’ve found has got to be Lol Pics! It’s glorious! It’s updated constantly and has hilarious pics! Perfect distraction! As if I needed more!
Jersey Shore the Musical Hits the Stage!!
Aug 19, 2011 Author: Katie Lara | Filed under: Celebs, Entertainment, NYC Activities, TelevisionMix your favorite guidos and guidettes with some singing and you've got the perfect NYC evening out! The Jersey Shore Musical–Jersey Shore-sical hits stages next week!
August 23rd-28th at the Bleecker Street Theater: 45 Bleecker St, nr Lafayette St
For more information about the Jersey Shore Musical, visit their website!
Aragosta Fairmont Hotel Restaurant Review
Aug 17, 2011 Author: Katie Lara | Filed under: Food and Cocktails!, Lifestyle, Love and Travel, Restaurant Review, Travel
The Fairmont Copley Plaza has a sister hotel in Boston's waterfront! Fairmont Battery Wharf! This is the Fairmont's answer to modern luxury. The property is breathtaking and has gorgeous views of the wharf.
Aragosta's real draw I would imagine is the outdoor seating with such a beautiful view! Such a romantic spot if you're visiting Boston with your loved one–or your parents and your loved one if you're like me! I'm not sure if it was just the night we were there dining but it waso the perfect amount of breeze and an absolutely breathtaking sunset!
Aragosta is just a short distance from the hustle and bustle of Hanover Street and on historic Battery Wharf. It's also withing walking distance from downtown so although it's quieter it's still accessible to downtown. Overall it's a nice change from the busy North End if you're looking for some great contemporary Italian cuisine.
The decor was modern with a few nautical touches. The staff was friendly and really knew the menu. He even told us exactly the right amount to order, which was a couple apps, a pasta in between and then main courses. Ross and I love sharing apps so it was perfect!
The drinks were imaginative and original while remaining light. I particularly recommend the Cilantro Sting, which contains cilantro, Patron Silver, vodka, lime, and sirrano chillies. The essence of this drink is of course crushed cilantro. It’s the perfect amount of flavor to stand out and be noticeable without being the only flavor. Ross also got a drink with limoncello and yellow pepper! It so delightful!
For appetizers we sampled the Lobster croquettes with white beans. There was such a hefty portion of lobster and the toasted bread beneath was perfectly done.
The figs wrapped in prosciutto atop gorgonzola were perfectly done as well.
My Dad had the veal meatballs and said he would have been happy just eating that for dinner!
My Cilantro Sting! Yummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm!!
The short ribs were incredible. They come atop a bed of beans and corn. The short ribs fall apart as soon as they touch your fork.
The tuna had a great flavor but was a bit well done for my liking.
My father had the lamb and it was so beautiful. It comes with ricotta gnocchi and a cucumber and mint salad to compliment. The lamb was cooked perfectly and I was told it was very tender.
For dessert, the must have on the menu was definitely the chocolate bread pudding!
The indoor seating was beautiful as well. Although I highly recommend an outdoor table.
To make a reservation at Aragosta at the Fairmont, call (617) 994-9001 or visit Aragosta online.
*Smartypanties meal was comped in consideration for a review for our wonderful readers.
Oak Room Best Steak in Boston
Aug 16, 2011 Author: Katie Lara | Filed under: Food and Cocktails!, Lifestyle, Love and Travel, Restaurant Review, Travel
Too many establishments serve steaks, the Oak Room worships them!
Upon making my reservations at the Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel I was invited by the Public Relations department to review their famous steak restaurant, the Oak Room. Well, you can imagine my excitement! Although I'm mostly vegan these days, that does not apply to birthday celebrations or filet mignon! I don't eat much meat as you know but I do make an exception about once a year for the perfect steak with bernaise sauce. I have been to about every steakhouse in NYC and have to tell you that not many have impressed me as much as the Oak Room! It was absolutely incredible. It was one of those meals that I'll never forget. (Not to get too emotional about a restaurant!)
The evening began with cocktails in the Oak Bar, which is breathtaking. They also have live music, which was fabulous. The atmosphere is lavish and reminiscent of a luxurious hunting lodge (complete with deer heads on the walls, only thing I could have done without–but again that's my vegetarian side rearing its ugly head).
The restaurant blends the perfect balance of ostentation and comfort. It feels like you are a special guest welcomed into a intimate, early 20th Century dining room. The ceilings were carved hardwood and the window treatments were decorated with stately draping.
Back to one of my favorite parts of the experience–the cocktails, The cocktails are a bit pricey but you truly are getting something unusual (they range from $15-$20). Even the presentation of the martinis are creative (and functional). They serve a cute mini-carafe of your beverage inside a pitcher of ice versus bringing a metal shaker for self-refills. As you know, I don't have a problem with a hefty price-tag as long as I feel like I'm getting something special–and I did!
I ordered a drink that came with bourbon and blueberries garnished with bleu cheese stuffed olives. I didn't know I was such a bourbon fan until I had this drink! It was the perfect combination of salty and sweet. The blueberries also masked the bourbon enough that it was easy to drink! Ross got a pomegranate and cucumber cocktail that was truly the best of its kind I've ever had. You could actually taste the fresh cucumber! And these fellas were stiff! But in a good way!
The bread was scrumptious! Comes with hummus, butter and tapende! Yum!!!!!!!!!
For appetizers we sampled the tuna tartare, clam chowder and crabcake (below). After being told by our waiter that the crabcake was the best he had ever tasted, how could I not try one. And he was right! They were moist and cooked to perfection! The tuna could not have been fresher if I had just caught it myself! And Ross loved the clam chowder!
For our entrees we ordered chateaubriand to share! Not a common dish these days so when I see it I know I'm at a fancy restaurant. It's the most tender cut of beef and it did not disappoint! It was done to perfection and cut right at the table by the world's best waiter (Frank Brown–ask for him! We loved him!)!
Each steak was served with a roasted clove of garlic! The perfect compliment to every steak! And of course the bernaise sauce came on side! Yum! What does every steak need if not butter sauce!?! The chateaubriand came with a potato as well as asparagus (which we subbed for spinach). The sauteed spinach was delicious and the parmesean fries were fantastic. The sides were also large enough for an entire table to share. Extremely generous portions!
After dinner is complete the Oak Room brings out a giant serving of cotton candy! Yum!!! And such a fun and cute touch!
For dessert we each sampled a different dish and passed them around and shared. Our favorite was the cheesecake, which came with rhubarb on top! Amazing! So creamy and delicious too. Next we liked the Boston Cream Pie. It was a different twist on your usual idea of a traditional BCP. Definitely worth trying! The chocolate sauce on top was definitely real chocolate. You can tell the moment it hits your lips! My fam loved the strawberry soup but of course, I am partial to chocolate and cheesecake though the fruit didn't stand a chance!
I think that the Oak Room is a classic staple of Boston as is Copley Plaza! I would say that this restaurant is definitely a must-see on your venture to Boston and well worth its higher price-tag. If you can't stop in for dinner I absolutely insist that you have a cocktail in the Oak Bar! Best cocktail menu ever, the drinks were divine and you just must see the exquisite architecture. !
Thank you, Oak Room for hosting Smartypanties. It was truly a dinner I won't soon forget!!
The wood-carved walls and the curtains made you feel like you were dining in the lap of luxury!
This photo doesn't do the chandeliers justic. They were gorgeous!
All that remained…the true sign of a delectable feast!!
For reservations at the Oak Room Boston call (617) 267-5300 or visit The Oak Room Boston online.
Boston, MA 02116-5002
Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel Review: Perfect Weekend Getaway from New York City!
Aug 16, 2011 Author: Katie Lara | Filed under: Lifestyle, Love and Travel, Travel
I just returned from a fabulous weekend getaway from NYC to Boston! I've been on a mission to come up with fun weekend getaways that you can do somewhat on a budget. Boston seemed the perfect destination because you can take the train or even drive! In a mere 4 hours (even less without traffic possibly) you're in an entirely different city. With my 30th birthday looming, Ross and I decided it was the perfect opportunity for a getaway! We were off to meet my parents for the weekend to celebrate! I had heard great things about the Fairmont Copley Plaza and it did not disappoint!
For those of you who are just stumbling onto this blog, a word about my hotel taste. After staying at my first Four Seasons hotel, I just simply could not go back. It was the downfall of my bank account. Since then I've been spoiled by some of the best hotels, including the Fairmont in Maui and now the Fairmont Copley Plaza. I am also a total germaphobe, one tiny mistake by the hotel and I'm skeeved out. So you can trust that when I say something is clean, it is! I am not easily impressed so when I say I like a hotel, it means something. So, ever onward with this post…
The Fairmont Copley Plaza, Boston is actually a landmark in Boston's historic Back Bay. The hotel was built on the original site of Boston's Museum of Fine Arts. The hotel's architect, Henry Janeway Hardenbergh, also designed The Plaza Hotel in New York, he included a double "P" monogram along the building's exterior, in the ballroom and on doorknobs throughout the hotel. A touch of NYC? We instantly felt right at home! It didn't hurt that we were greeted by Catie Copley, the Fairmont's signature Labrador who greets guests in the lobby. Just the sweetest pup you've ever met! She even has her own children's storybook and will sign paw your copy to prove that you met her!
A recent $34 million renovation and restoration project updated each guest room with modern amenities and gorgeous artwork to give each suite an authentic Bean Town feeling. The architecture of the hotel is absolutely gorgeous and ornate. Of course, remember, I am more of classic hotel kind of girl than modern so this place was exactly what I was hoping for. If you remember I was NOT the biggest fan of the W Hotel in Miami. The Fairmont Copley's luxurious and elegant decor definitely impressed. The floors were marble-icious, glittering chandeliers filled the hallways and ballrooms. I felt like the old-time elegance really took me back in time to the good old days of real charm!
The hotel is in the best location, you're a short walk to the Boston Commons, first class shopping on Newbury street, steps away from the freedom trail tours where you can learn about all of the wonderful historical events that took place in Boston during our country's early years. Back Bay Train station is only one block away and there is also a T stop about 1 block as well!
But back to the hotel… through my wonderful blog we were kindly upgraded to the Gold Floor. The Copley Plaza's Fairmont Gold is a luxurious and exclusive hotel within the hotel located on the entire fourth floor of the building. Even the most discerning of travelers will find this a treat! You know I'm all about full-disclosure over here so while I did not pay for the upgrade, I will tell you that if when I return I would 1000% recommend you making the upgrade. I have never been so impressed with a hotel's upgraded level. You have your own separate check-in desk that really takes care of anything you need in an instant and that's all fine and good, but the best part was that the Fairmont Gold has its own separate lounge for its guests (complete with wi-fi). And while the relaxing library is a great place to kick back when you're not sightseeing, the real draw for me was the food! They serve a nearly full breakfast in the morning, complete with bagels, eggs, Boston baked beans, lox, coffee, espresso and more. And this is all complimentary! Later in the day they serve cookies (which are divine) and in the evening they serve light appetizers you can grab before dinner. Truth be told, you could probably eat these goodies for a meal and be completely satisfied.
Here was the special blend of berry tea (only available at Fairmont). It was the perfect, refreshing bev to drink when we got back from our walking tours everyday!
Just another one of the ornate chandeliers! I tried to capture it with my point-and-shoot camera but it truly doesn't do it justice!
Me again with the other Catie! She is great if you have kids! They absolutely loved her (although really weren't too many kids at the hotel). Also, do you see how lavish these rugs are? They were absolutely massive!! Must seriously take years to make just one of them! And you have to believe me at how fresh everything looked. Sometimes hotels with this decor start to look run down but nothing here was the slightest!
Loved the ceilings! So gorgeous everywhere you looked!
Fairmont Gold room. The rooms were immaculate and truly felt like a home away from home. The beds were spectacular (and this is coming from someone with a history of back problems!) The bathrooms were marble and equipped with double sinks! My pictures of the bathroom seem to be lost, I was sharing cameras with my parents and unfortunately I must have somehow left those photos on theirs. As to be expected from a Fairmont property, they too were immaculate. For those of you Manhattan married couples, you know what a true vacation that is!
All rooms and suites at The Fairmont Copley Plaza offer the following amenities:
- 32"Flat Screen LCD Television
- IHome Docking Station
- On Demand Movie Selections
- Hairdryer
- Digital Safe
- In-Room Refreshment Center
- Iron and Ironing Board
- Pillow Top Mattress
- Plush Bathrobe
- Windows that open
This is Regina Pizzeria in the North End! You may have to wait a few minutes to eat at this dive but it'll be worth it! Super cheap too! If you don't want to wait you can also carry out and sit on a nearby bench! Take advantage of the concierge at the hotels, they really (and quite unusually in my experience) knew the hot spots that were worth seeing! They told us about the Liberty Hotel (although friends had as well, it gave me confidence that they knew what they were talking about. Liberty hotel is an old jailhouse turned into a hotel. Absolutely a remarkable sight! Not my choice to stay but you must check out Alibi bar.) The concierge also recommended my new favorite restaurant, Trattoria Il Panino. A great Italian place in the North End. Amazing al fresco seating and it's right near where they filmed "The Town" with Ben Affleck so you can check out the real movie location! The restaurant's walls are covered with celebs who have visited the restaurant too!
Living it up with the Husband after our most favorite Boston dinner at the Oak Room! Be sure to check out our Oak Room Review.
Just a sampling of the breakfast buffet, which is complimentary to the Gold guests! Sidenote, best lox and bagels ever! And I'm from New York!
In the evening you could make yourself a cocktail (these were not complimentary) but it's pretty nice to make yourself a drink and not have to tap into the mini-bar!
Just a shot of an alcove near the lounge on the Gold Floor that I thought was beautiful.
Everything about this hotel was 5-star (even their 4 diamond AAA rating–not easy to come by these days!). Every member of their staff was accommodating, polite and extremely knowledgeable!
Overall, I think this is a fabulous weekend getaway destination. Your money will be well spent at this luxurious hotel. After spending a fortune at the W Hotel in Miami I was a little frustrated, I didn't feel like I had spent my money well or been pampered. Here, I felt the extra money for such a luxurious hotel was well worth it. I will absolutely return to the Fairmont Copley Plaza, in fact I can't imagine going anywhere else!
To make reservations or visit the Fairmont Copley Plaza call (617) 267-5300 or visit the Fairmont Copley Plaza online!
*Smartypanties received a special press rate in consideration for a review for our readers but we did pay for our room.
*We were given a special press rate in consideration for reviewing the property for our fabulous readers. As always all opinions herein are completely my own!*
