Think Spring! Things to do around town in April

Its hard to believe its April and there is snow on the ground today, well really, I guess not, I mean it is Buffalo. Regardless of what it is doing outside, there is plenty to do around town this month. Here is my list of some events and activities that caught my eye this month.

Take a fun tour with Explore Buffalo - whether its at the Fontana Boat House or an architectural tour you're bound to have fun and learn more about WNY

When I think of April I think of baseball and even though the Major League teams opening day was yesterday and today, the hometown team {The Buffalo Bisons} kickoff their season on the road this Thursday and are at home on April 14th #seizetheseason

Fern Croft Floral is hosting a class on Floral arrangements April 23rd...this comes at the perfect time, gardening season is right around the corner.

Makers Buffalo has a lot of fun DIY classes this month, Macramé Hanging Plants on 4/12, Pidge Podge is back with a weaving workshop on 4/30 and in between those dates there is so much more taking place! For a complete list of classes click here

Buffalo State College's Fashion and Textile program is hosting Runway ECOLUTION April 16th. For tickets click here.

Resurgence is hosting a Toy Brewbash on 4/14. For more details you can go here.

The new EXPO Market downtown is hosting their Grand Opening on April 18 & 19th. If you haven't checked out the popular downtown food hall, put it on your calendar to do in April.

Party in the Park is back on April 22 at Marcy Casino

If you're in need of a wedding planner or need some DIY tips for your big day, MuseJar is hosting a Secrets of the Trade DIY event on 4/24. For more details check out the Facebook event page.

One event I'd like to attend this year is the Knox Farm Spring Art Fest taking place at the end of the month - April 29- May 1

The Trio Bringing Healthy Back to Buffalo

A new place I am a big, big fan of and excited to share with you is up on the blog today. Learn more about Bootleg Bucha and the trio who make the operation work!

{Todd, Heather & Jeff}

Bootleg Bucha opened its doors at 364 Connecticut Street in November. For Heather, Todd and Jeff the home brewing began a long time ago in their homes, providing a healthy beverage to family and friends and with the popularity of kombucha growing it left them no other option than to expand.

All 3 have been friends for a number of years and they offer something no one else in Buffalo does. So what is kombucha? It is a fermented tea that originated in East Asia and is known for its healing properties.

Bootleg Bucha’s kombucha is brewed and organic evaporated cane sugar and Scoby (symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast) are added during the fermentation process. After 2-3 weeks the fermented tea is flavored with juices, extracts and herbs, then undergoes a secondary fermentation. The end result is a healthy light carbonated beverage full of antioxidants, amino acids, Vitamin B and more!

So who does what within the company? Todd takes the lead in marketing and social media, Heather creates the delicious and wide variety of flavors and Jeff brews the tea. All three take part in working at the shop with the help of Meghan who is there almost, if not every day.

What are their favorite flavors? Heather enjoys the Ginger Lime Cayenne and Todd’s is the plain. The popular flavor among customers is their Tart Cherry Mint (its soooo good!!)

Why did they start their own business? What do they love about this area? For Heather and Jeff, they lived in Chicago for a few years and new Buffalo was home, coming back here and seeing all the growth was exciting and they knew they wanted to be a part of it. For Todd a lot of his friends left the area after college and he wanted to give them a reason to come back. The energy and collaboration among local businesses (i.e. at Horsefeathers Market) is great. Working and collaborating together has helped form friendships amongst one another.

For Jeff, Heather and Todd living in the area helped them chose their business location – the West Side of Buffalo is up and coming and there is a lot to offer in the neighborhood.

So when I asked what Bootleg Bucha wants to be known for, the response was:

“Bringing Healthy Back” Buffalo is known to be one of the unhealthiest places – we have delicious food and we are finally beginning to incorporate healthier options around town. Buffalo is in a better place than 5 years ago, and its because of new businesses like Bootleg Bucha that it's only going to get better and they are happy to be a part of that.

What are some other things you should know about Bootleg Bucha?

• Bootleg Bucha is the only kombucha brewery in Upstate New York
• You can bring your own bottles in and they can fill them for you –beer growlers, 32 oz. containers, etc.
• 4 new flavors were offered this past week
• You can visit them at the Horsefeathers Market on Saturdays or during the week {click here for their hours}. Also, catch them at Riverworks Thawfest and the Buffalo Mini Maker Faire at the Buffalo Science Museum

{Just a Blonde in Buffalo Photos}

Stop & Smell the Scents at Her Story Boutique's Fragrance Bar

{Just a Blonde in Buffalo photos}

One thing I've had on my bucket list of things to do was to create my own fragrance and with the help of Her Story Boutique I was able to check that fun experience off my list this week. Her Story has a fragrance bar where you can purchase pre-made perfume or for $25 you can make your own from a handful of different scents they have.

I just walked in one day to do this, but I learned its best to call ahead to make an appointment with Sue. Creating your own fragrance takes about an hour {especially if you are indecisive}, but if you know what you like it could be done quicker. It was a lot of fun smelling the different scents and seeing what you really like and don't like and seeing what you think goes well together and what doesn't.

My final scent was Green Tea, Fig and Sage.

Her Story does private fragrance parties {which I am hoping to host soon with my girlfriends} as well as having a number of pop up shops taking place around town at local events.

Make sure to follow on social media to see where they will be.

-B

#BuffaloLinks

1. Its that time of year again where the Broadway Market will be bustling with thousands of people and it all kicks off this Friday with the Easter season approaching in a few short weeks. Here is a list of hours and activities taking place.
2. Another new Escape Room I found out about this past week is right in the heart of Downtown Buffalo next door to the Convention Center - The Great Escape Room is a fun place to go - with a number of different rooms, it makes for great team building activities for businesses in the area.
3. Looking for a neat way to meet the Easter Bunny? How about taking a ride on the Arcade and Attica Railroad. Meet the Easter Bunny and friends and participate in an Easter Egg Hunt. March 19th & 20th. For more details click here.
4. If you missed the winter version of the Artists Market at the Ellicott Square Building - you're in luck! Event organizers are hosting another one taking place on March 24th. Don't miss out and mark you calendars today!
5.  A new pop up market that I am loving is ShopCraft located inside Thin Ice. For more info on them check out their Facebook page.

March Madness

March Madness is happening in Buffalo and it has nothing to do with basketball, but a lot to do with fun events to look forward to the rest of this month. Here is my list of "things to do":

Buffalo Home & Garden Show - March 6, 12, 13

Roller Skate Nights throughout the month of March at Buffalo Riverworks

Shamrock Run - March 12

Limoncello Tasting at Amherst St Wine & Liquor - March 12

Weaving Workshop with Makers Buffalo - March 12

Barre @ the Bar - Pure Barre at Lockhouse distillery - March 15

DIY Wall Herb Garden - March 15

Mini Makers Easter Egg Dying - March 19th

MessFest at the Buffalo Museum of Science - March 19

Maple Weekend - March 19-20

St. Patty's Day Parade - Old First Ward - March 19

Buffalo Bisons Open House - March 19

St. Patty's Day Parade - Delaware Ave - March 20th

Soap Making with Zandra and Makers Buffalo - March 23

Guided Tour & Candlelit Yin Yang Yoga at the Darwin Martin House - March 26

Dyngus Day festivities - March 28th

Putts & Pints for First Tee WNY - March 30

Promoting & Giving Back...All At The Same Time

One of my goals for 2015 was to get my blog's name out in the community more, but at the same time give back too. So I thought with my involvement with the Zoo what better way to kick off this initiative of mine than to be a sponsor of one their exhibits. While I won't lie my first pick was the Elephant's House {their exhibit was not available}, the Maned Wolf was a very good runner up! I didn't even know the Buffalo Zoo had a Maned Wolf and I've been to the Zoo a lot, so it makes me happy to sponsor their exhibit and let the community know about these beautiful animals.

The next time you're at the Buffalo Zoo make sure to stop by the Vanishing Animals Exhibit and learn more about them and the other vanishing animals on site.

-B

::EXPO::

Expo Market opened last week Thursday and it is the best thing that happened to Downtown Buffalo in a while. A food court style venue that offers a lot of Buffalo favorites.

• Bobby Alfman's Gourmet Sandwiches
• Crush Juicery
• Gypsy Bohemian Grove Bar
• Newbury Street
• Osteria
• Sun Restaurant

I stopped by Mercato by Osteria and built my own pasta dish that was extremely delicious and affordable. You can't go wrong with any one of the vendors as all of them had steady lines of people during the lunch hour. It is a new hot spot to be for lunch or dinner and as they have on their website it is "Downtown Buffalo's gathering place."

If you work downtown this is a place to go when you need to take a break.

-B

{Just a Blonde in Buffalo photos}

"Join Our Journey" My Trip to the Aquarium of Niagara

The Aquarium of Niagara - one of Niagara Falls, NY's gems. While I personally feel like the Aquarium doesn't get enough recognition from its neighboring suburbs, it has so, SO much to offer! A short 30 minute drive from the City of Buffalo, their are multiple sea mammal shows, talks with the keepers and feedings that take place throughout the day and are free with admission.

Last week I was lucky enough to sit down and snag some time with Ilene Strober the Director of Development and Marketing at the Aquarium, she told me about their Capital Campaign and fun things taking place, so I won't waste any time and will jump right into it.

"Join Our Journey"  - is a $3.2 million capital campaign featuring an interactive exhibit with classroom, smart boards and a beautiful, one of a kind home for the Humboldt Penguins.  The Aquarium of Niagara is above code in everything, but in order to receive accreditation with the AZA {Association of Zoos and Aquariums} a new exhibit needs to be built for the Humboldt Penguins. This new exhibit will be an exhibit for people of all ages.

Currently the Aquarium is $1 million short of their goal - so they are calling on the community for support. The Aquarium has visitors from all over Niagara County, Erie County, Western Pennsylvania, Ohio and Southern Ontario. A non -profit that does so much for the community, now will the community help them?

One thing that opened my eyes during my interview with Ilene is how big the Aquarium is on conservation, not only here at home, but all over the world - from local lakes and rivers to ocean life. We play a huge part in these animals lives and habitats and we have to learn to do a better job on sustainability.

{These Humboldt penguins are the cutest!}

While walking through the building I learned a lot from talking with Ilene. There are 23 new/refurbished exhibits on hand. Penguins have their own personalities and have strong bonds with one another- they come out in pairs. All of the sea lions, including seals that are at the Aquarium of Niagara are rescued and non-releasable into the wild. The shows that are held for the guests actually help the trainers teach them things and to help them learn enrichment.

{Ripple - a fun interactive video game for kids to play when they visit}

Some other fun facts I learned from my visit -Octopus only live for 3-5 year, use their brain and are very smart. Sturgeon fish have a 100 year life span, but are endangered because they are hunted before they are sexually mature, because of this there is no reproducing taking place - going back to the whole sustainability topic I mentioned earlier.  We can throw off the ecosystem if we have to much of one thing.

{Trainers Hallie and Colleen with sea lions Kia and Arie}

{Sea lions are extremely curious and playful}

And how about this - the Aquarium of Niagara has one of the most poisonous and deadly fish there is - a lion fish. If you ask me they look pretty cool though!

What other fun things can you do at the Aquarium, do you ask? {obviously call ahead to make an appointment for these activities}

Public Touch Tank, Meet a Seal, Behind the Scenes Tour {there is so much more to the animals exhibits that the public doesn't see}, Humboldt Penguin Interactive Program, the list goes on. For more info on any of these activities click here. And for a complete list of upcoming events go here . SEALED with a Kiss is coming up on Valentine's Day weekend and that looks to be a fun event to take part in.

A few summers ago I took my niece to feed the seals and she had such a fun time and thought it was the coolest thing. For a couple of dollars she got to experience something not a lot of people say they do. The Aquarium of Niagara is such a fun place to go, all year round.

If you want to help be a part of the journey contact Ilene to see how you can help.

-B

{All photos: Just a Blonde in Buffalo photos}

A Hidden Gem in the Heart of the West Side Neighborhood: Tipico Coffee

Calling all Coffee Lovers! Have you been to one of the newest places on Buffalo’s West Side? Tipico Coffee opened a few short months ago and it is A-Mazing!!!

I was lucky enough to sit down with the owner Jesse Crouse and talk about how he got started and what made him open a coffee shop in the heart of the west side neighborhood.

From coffee to lattes to tea and more, Tipico rotates their coffee on a regular basis and on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays they have pastries from local vendors such as Breadhive and Butter Block, they also have an ever so tasty and popular avocado toast! Jesse started his passion for coffee while he was studying poetry in Chicago. Down the street from him was Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea, a high end specialty coffee shop that drew him in and over the last 5+ years he has worked with coffee farms studying the supply aspect of the business.

After having children, Jesse and his wife Kristen {originally from Western New York} were trying to find an affordable place to open a business and decided to move to the area, after being on the west coast for a while. "Buffalo felt right" The couple along with Jesse's in-laws wanted to help influence and shape the community they are living in. Their love for making food and the idea of homesteading offers a unique gift to customers as well. Bringing in 80-90% of their produce and milk from New York State their menu may be small, but is nice and compliments the drinks they serve. Jesse's goal is to offer a revolving menu once the spring time comes and host more casual gatherings and events throughout the year.

Having the largest masonry stove, an iced coffee window that will be offered in the warmer weather months, being one of the first walking destination businesses in the middle of the West Side's residential neighborhood, hosting brunches from time to time {the list goes on}; if you think you're going to walk into the same old coffee shop, you're wrong - Tipico is not your average café, its more than that. It's a place where you go and the staff remembers your name, says thank you for stopping by and see ya soon when you leave. During my interview with Jesse he said hello and goodbye to every person that walked in and out of the door. That is what a small business owner in my opinion is. They know their customers, care about them and want to build a relationship with them.

Starting on a shoe string budget, Jesse thought of doing a pop up shop, but just so happened to stumble upon his current location through his landlord. Everything was built out and the only thing he had to focus on was the equipment, putting a menu together and finding employees. It took 2 months to open and it wasn’t an easy process, but when you have passion for something you care about so much, it helps get you through. When I asked Jesse what he loves about the area, he said he loves the community. The warm welcoming he receives from the customers and community is what he and his staff give back to the area. The West Side of Buffalo is turning into the walking side of the community and having it be a walking destination gets people who may not be familiar with the area, out and about, seeing all the great things taking shape.

Tipico is really in the heart of the west side of Buffalo - the "hidden gem" in the neighborhood. To me, seeing a business like this in an area that is developing is really exciting. As someone who enjoys going to new places, it's nice to meet local business owners who have a passion and believe in the area they work in. To see them excited, makes you get excited to see the growth of the community. If you enjoy coffee you should definitely make a stop to Tipico. And if you aren't a coffee lover you don't have to worry, Tipico also carries a wide variety of teas for tea lovers. It really is a one-of-a kind café in the area.

-B

{Latte- YUM!}

{Just a Blonde in Buffalo photos}

Women Who Move Buffalo: Holly & Emily from Lace & Day

“Every girl is a little bit lace and a little bit day.” – Lace & Day

Emily and Holly owners of Lace & Day

{Just a Blonde in Buffalo photos}

Last week I was lucky enough to sit down with the sister duo – Emily and Holly from Lace and Day. We chatted about the space, product, and service and why they chose to open their own business. They also shared some exciting news with me!

Read more below!

Both women have a handful of talent and experience in their field. They both have lived and traveled around the world working in typical career like jobs before opening Lace & Day. Emily previously worked in a lingerie store for a few years and Holly always knew she wanted to own her own business. So in October of 2015 that dream became a reality.

Lace & Day is about bringing high end bras and lingerie items to the Buffalo area along with offering the services to fit you properly. It is about helping make the customer feel comfortable in their own skin. Most women aren't in the right bra size and at Lace & Day they get to know you and what your daily activities are; do you work in an office all day? do you work at a gym? whatever it is that you do, they listen to their customer to help fit them properly.

When I asked if one sister focuses on a certain area of the business over another Emily said she focuses more on the buying and finances side of things and Holly focuses on the HR, operations and marketing side of things. At the end of the day, they both work together on strategy and as a team make the decisions together.

So how did Lace & Day end up in Allentown  you ask? When Holly and Emily were looking for their space they knew they wanted to be downtown and knew Lace & Day was going to be a destination place. When they landed the building that is now home to Lace & Day, they knew it was the perfect fit. Growing up in Allentown, their business is close to their childhood home - making it a homecoming.

I asked them, what advice they would give someone who is looking to open their own business and they said you have to want to deal with the "business of the business." As a business owner you have to love what you want to do. Owning a business is not easy, you need to have a business plan and you must be organized. They also mentioned you spend a good portion of your time running the business, its not about one particular piece of the puzzle, but the whole puzzle you need to focus on. And you should surround yourself with the right team.  Emily and Holly are exceptional women and so are the staff and vendors they work with.

During our conversation I asked them of any exciting things taking place and they certainly did have some exciting news! On Thursday, they are headed to Paris to celebrate one of their vendors 70th Anniversary's in the business. Along with that, they will be going to some amazing, one of a kind shows, learning about new lines and products to bring back to Buffalo. They will also be paying a visit to the headquarters of one of their product lines in Breast, France. You can stay up to date on the new and exciting things they will be learning through their Instagram and Facebook accounts!

Lace and Day has only been open for 3 1/2 months and these women feel the love from the community. When I asked them what they love best about this area, they couldn't say enough great things about their family and their customers. They also couldn't say enough about the Allentown community. Café 59, Franklin Salon, Fat Bob's, Buffalo Proper, the list goes on. The community has made them feel warm and welcoming and they feel the love. They have great neighbors and a great neighborhood and they want their customers to capture that when they pay a visit to them.

When I arrived to Lace and day, Holly gave me a tour of the store. The atmosphere is warm and inviting and beautiful. It's classy and simple. The downstairs is filled with sleepwear, panties and men's boxer briefs from Saxx. Upstairs is the Tree House room - a room where men and women can relax and drink a beer, read a magazine and just hang out, while your friend or loved one are getting fitted. Its a room that is their to make you feel comfortable while you wait. Down the hall from the Treehouse Room are the spacious fitting rooms, where the fittings takes place.

Emily and Holly are truly amazing women who have brought not only product like no other, but service and experience to an area that was lacking a upscale lingerie and bra fitting store to Western New York. As a customer you will walk out feeling more support, more beautiful and more confident in yourself. And to me, that is a priceless gift these women leave you with.

For more information on Lace & Day, to host a private party {yes, private party!} and to follow along on their Paris trip make sure to like them on Facebook and follow them on Instagram.

Oh - and they have a parking lot behind their building! Free parking, its doesn't get any better!

-B

A Nice Way to Watch A Film

{Just a Blonde in Buffalo photos}

Did you know that when Shea's opened in 1926 it was actually built to show silent films?!?  Sunday my Mom and I attended the silent film Sherlock Holmes there. When I first got the tickets I thought it was a play, but then my Mom was quick to point out that it was a silent film {note to myself to read better} ...like no words just a pianist playing scores throughout the films 90 minutes. I was a little skeptical, I'm not going to lie. I was thinking I would want to leave halfway through the film, but it was actually amazing! It was like I experienced something from back in time - a black and white film with no words, just music. It was a nice change of scenery and something different. I highly recommend attending a short film at Shea's if you ever can. It makes for a nice indoor activity to do when the weather isn't so nice out outside.

{A brief welcome and introduction before the film started}

Oh and the best part - it was free! A free film in a beautiful building that celebrated their 90th anniversary this weekend. That's pretty cool Buffalo. Oh and for those who like popcorn and candy to munch on when watching a movie - Shea's had their concession stands open, selling sweet treats {the popcorn and twizzlers cost $8 - that's cheaper than a movie ticket now a days}. Just putting things in perspective, its nice to have a beautiful venue like this offer nice {casual} events like this.

For a calendar of events taking place at Shea's click here

-B

#BuffaloLinks

Its the first #BuffaloLinks post for 2016. And with it comes a lot of fun events taking place throughout the rest of January. From outdoor to indoor events, winter in Buffalo doesn't have to be as dreadful as some make it. Whether you hit up Chestnut Ridge park for sledding, Fountain Plaza for ice skating, Riverworks for curling and ice hockey or Tifft Nature Preserve for some snow shoeing Buffalo has a lot going on. Here is a list of events that look like they are going to be fun to attend:

Chillabration at Canalside - January 15th

Be a part of the Guinness Book of World Records and take part in what may be the Longest Ice Line and help Make a Wish WNY. My cousin Nathan {wish teen} will be leading the line.

{photo- Canalside}

Makers Buffalo has a lot of fun DIY projects over the next few weeks. Check out a full list here

{photo- Makers Buffalo}

Learn all about energy at Energy Day at the Science Museum on January 23rd.

{photo Buffalo Science Museum}

Exercise and brunch- why not- Sip n' Stretch at Marcy Casino on January 24th is an event I have tickets to. Knowing I will be burning those calories so I can enjoy a mimosa afterwards is enough motivation for me to work hard during the class.

{photo Sip N Stretch event page}

Looking to learn more about this city and the history behind it. Explore Buffalo is the perfect place to go for tours. And on January 23rd they are kicking off a Winter Celebration to share all of the awesome things coming up.

{photo Explore Buffalo}

A light show and more is coming back to Buffalo's Botanical Gardens at the end of January. Lumagination was on my list of events to attend last year and never happened, so this year I've made it a priority.

{photo Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens}

Where's Lloyd?!? Hitting up Hertel Ave. for the Taco Factory

{Snozzberry Mule, chicken burrito and spring rolls}

{Just a Blonde in Buffalo photos}

Last week I joined some friends at the newest addition to Hertel Ave - Lloyds Taco Factory. You've seen the trucks all over Western New York and now they have a permanent residency on Hertel Ave. We arrived just before 6pm on a weeknight which was perfect timing because once 6 hit there was a steady line of people the rest of the night.

{See them making the tortillas and more}

{graffiti walls and a bottle drop - recycle!}

Offering not only their delicious tacos, nachos and burritos, they also offer small sides {like spring rolls} and a full service bar. My favorite things {besides the food} are the garage style doors in the front of the restaurant, the "bottle drop" pipes and the communal style table in the middle of the restaurant. Hitting up the taco factory just made me love what Pete and his team are doing for this area even more.

-B

{Classic crowd shot}

Feeling the Crunch

With Christmas only a few days away some people {myself included} still have last minute shopping to do. With every free minute I have I've been trying to catch up on what feels like the longest Christmas shopping list I have. Below are a few local stores I've stopped into this past week. Not thinking I would purchase anything, sometimes the stores you don't expect to find things in, are the ones you do. A lot of stores will be staying open later this week, make sure to check out their websites and/or social media for the most current information. Happy Shopping and be kind to one another!

-B

{Sarah Danielle inside the Ellicott Square Building}

{Local artist - Hometown Decals}

{Main Street in East Aurora, NY}

Niagara Power Vista Festival of Trees

{Just a Blonde in Buffalo photos}

This past weekend my niece, nephew, sister and I went to the Niagara Power Vista Festival of Trees. It was an all day event that was free to the public. Really not knowing what to expect, all I knew was there were going to be a number of trees decorated by a number of different non-profit organizations.

Once we arrived there was more than just the looking at Christmas trees, there were pictures with Santa, arts and crafts, live music from a local school band and the opportunity to play in the Electric Lab. For being a free event it was great and I highly suggest going next year, if you've never been. While you have the opportunity to learn about new organizations you also have a lot of other activities taking place, making it worth the drive if you're coming from the Buffalo area.

{You also got to see a great view of the Niagara River Gorge}

{Ornaments that you could make}

Marienthal Country Inn - A Home Away from Home in Eden, NY

Driving 30 minutes south of the City of Buffalo I made my way to Eden, NY the other day to visit with Louise from Marienthal Country Inn. A quaint bed and breakfast offering a lot more than just a cozy place to rest and relax. Formerly a Church, the B&B was purchased in 2007 and opened in 2008 with renovations taking place in the Rectory, Covenant and Church. Open all year round, there are a lot of things you can do while you're there. From relaxing massages and reflexology classes to water color classes every Monday and pottery classes are offered during the summer months, they offer girls get away packages and yoga classes as well.

{A short, but peaceful drive to Eden}

The first thing on the list was a tour of the facility. Each room was a different theme making it a one of a kind place. Louise and her husband took old pieces from the Church (pews, stained glass windows, etc.) and used them as sink stands, windows, etc. As things started to evolve, everything fell in to place. With the B&B pretty busy, Marienthal Country Inn has expanded their services, offering a unique place for people to host special events - Weddings, Bridal and Baby showers and Dinner Theater events such as Tony & Tina's Wedding, a Murder Mystery event and up next a Medieval Feast next Spring. There is a lot Louise and her team can do.

{Each room has something special about it}

Living in Eden her whole life, its not far from anything and you have a beautiful landscape. When I sat down I asked her what made her want to own a B&B and she said she has always thought about it, having a place where she could host artwork shops where people could stay. When the Church closed it was a whirlwind of events and everything just fell into place. Its a little community and she is happy to be a part of it. Her and her husband have hosted people from all over the world and as they continue to expand on improvements to the buildings they are also looking to expand on events in the future - offering a place for workshops and corporate retreats.

If you're looking to support local business and need a gift for someone for the Holiday, a gift certificate to the Marienthal Inn is a great idea. Not far from Buffalo and offering a unique experience, everyone is sure to have a wonderful time.

I have never been or stayed at a B&B before, but I can tell you Marienthal is special - it isn't your average place to stay and getaway for a weekend, Louise and her team make sure to offer unique activities to make the guests happy, making them want to come back. Instead of leaving an old Church building empty, Louise saw an opportunity to make something great out of a sad situation and she did an awesome job!

Until next time..

-B

Patricia's Back Barn

A cute barn with antiques, rustic and country like furniture and a super friendly staff, Patricia's Back Barn is a must visit place if you are looking for home décor or knick knacks. From country style tables to desks, chairs, lighting and more, I walked around the store with my Mom multiple times just looking at all the items they have for sale. Prices are reasonable and on some of the items even negotiable. They are open Thursday's thru Sunday's. Even if you aren't in need of any home goods, its a nice place to go if you're looking for something to do. And after you can grab brunch or tea at the White Linen Tea House across the parking lot.

-B

{I love this chandelier}

Just a Blonde in Buffalo's Holiday Gift Guide - Local Edition

With Black Friday and Small Business Saturday this week I thought it would be best to share my gift ideas for the upcoming season. These gifts come from some of my favorite shops in town. Enjoy!

-B

For those who like to create memories try getting your loved ones together for a brunch - share stories and laughs around the table at one of these fine places.

• Hydraulic Hearth
• Martin Cooks
• Elm St. Bakery
• Betty's

Brunch isn't your thing? Grab your people and go on a tour of local bars in town with Buffalo Pedal Tours - this is great for any out of town guests. Hit up Canalside, Buffalo Riverworks, the list goes on. Just make sure to dress for the weather! Pedaling in the cold not your cup of tea?  Take a group of friends or family to Escape Room Buffalo and try to figure out the clues to get out of a locked room.

The brewery and local distillery scene is booming in town put together a Buffalo Drink Package - grab gift cards and/or product depending on your budget and pick up items at your local favorites:

Resurgence Brewery, Flying Bison, Community Beer Works, Big Ditch, NY Beer Project {just opened}, Lockhouse Distillery, Tommy Rotter Distillery, Niagara Distilling Co Hamburg Brewing Co.

Looking for a family friendly gift? How about grabbing a season pass down at Canalside. With all the activities taking place down there, there is something for everyone.

Buffalo Science Museum and Buffalo Zoo memberships are great gifts too! If a family goes to at least one or two events during the year, the membership is worth it, plus there are a lot of member events that take place throughout the year if you're a member.

Have a history person on your hands or someone who just likes learning about the place they live? Explore Buffalo offers a number of tours throughout the year - pick up a one time tour and make a day of it or become a member.

For all those who love fashion a great gift idea is making a basket filled with a variety of different boutiques flair. Anna Grace, Research and Design, Blush, Sarah Danielle and Modern Nostalgia are my top five shops. They all have something different about them. Pick up a different piece of clothing or accessory from each place to truly make a one-of-a-kind gift.

For those who love knick knacks or for those you want to send a little Buffalove too some of my favorite places to shop are Fern + Arrow, Spoiled Rotten, Patricia's Back Barn and Furnishings

For those coffee lovers out there - yes, Starbucks, Tim Hortons and Dunkin are all great, but we have some cool new coffee shops that just opened. Tipico Coffee and Public espresso + coffee  are nice places to add a different twist to the gift.

For those who like to stay fit and active head to Get Air Buffalo to bounce around on the trampoline, or put together a Buffalo Fitness gift - grab a package to a local fitness studio - perfect for those who always want to try a class, but don't get around to it- Barre Centric, BikeorBar, Revolution Buffalo, and Power Yoga Buffalo are all great places to check out.

If you are more into giving back this time of year, there are a lot of organizations in the community who have toy drives and gift wish lists. The United Way of Buffalo and Erie County can help you if you don't have a specific charity close to your heart.

There are a lot more local places in Buffalo that offer great gifts that I didn't mention on this list. Whatever and wherever you decide to go this Holiday season, I hope you have an enjoyable time spreading some love to those in your life.

Just a Blonde in Buffalo's Holiday Event Guide

The Holiday Season is upon us and with that comes a number of Christmas Tree lightings and pictures with Santa. Below is a list of Holiday events taking place from now thru the month of December. If there is something you see that's not on my list let me know, I'm always up for attending new events!! Happy Holidays!

-B

Holidays at the Market - the Broadway Market that is. Pay a visit to Santa, shop local vendors and get into the holiday spirit at a Buffalo staple.

The Fairgrounds - Festival of Lights - taking place throughout the month of November and December stop by the Fairgrounds for a holiday light spectacular.

Our Lady of Fatima Shrine - Festival of Lights - a beautiful place to visit

November 27, 28 & 29

Christmas in Ellicottville

Tuesday, December 1st

An annual favorite - Festival of Trees at the Niagara Power Vista - come see artificial evergreen trees light up by local non for profits who decorated them

Wednesday, December 2nd

Women and Children's Hospital of Buffalo Haute Holiday Fashion Show

Friday, December 4th

Canalside Holiday Celebration and Tree Lighting - 5-8pm come down to Canalside - ice skate, meet with Santa and watch the Tree light up the Ice.

Friday, December 4th & Saturday, December 5th

Hertel Holidays taking place - walk up and down Hertel Avenue, visiting the shops and dining and you may run into a visit from Santa Claus

Holiday Live at Larkin Square

Saturday, December 5th

Queen City Market event - Karpeles Manuscript {I went to this last year and there are a lot of local vendors with a lot of great gifts ideas - I knocked a lot of people off my list that day}.

Rotary Rink Tree Lighting beginning at 5pm - come for free ice skating and get into the holiday spirit

Pictures with Buster Claus - Coca Cola Field - come down to the ballpark for a unique picture opportunity with Buster Claus. Make a toy donation to Hillside Family of Agencies and be entered in a shopping spree

Wednesday, December 9th

Join Sarah Danielle {local Women's Boutique} for A City of Buffalo Artists Market. Taking place inside the beautiful Ellicott Square Building, a number of local vendors will be on hand from 4:30-9pm for all of your shopping needs.

Thursday, December 10

Wreath making with Makers Buffalo! Grab some friends and decorate a wreath for the Holidays with Makers and Fern Croft Floral

Friday, December 11

Tree of Hope Celebration at Roswell Park from 4:30-6:30pm

Saturday, December 12th

Buffalo Museum of Science - Celebrations - celebrate cultural traditions from around the world with fun family activities taking place from 10-4pm.

Deck the Halls at the Niagara Power Project - 10-4pm Free pictures with Santa and you can take a stroll on the trolley.

Saturday, December 19th

East Aurora Carolcade - I remember attending this when I was younger and it was so much fun. Make a day of it and stop by the famous Vidlers and MUSEjar's Holiday Market event!

Woman Who Move Buffalo - Vanessa from MUSEjar

{Just a Blonde in Buffalo photo}

Making my way to the beautiful East Aurora, I walked into Musejar for the first time and literally shouted out how much I loved the space and just stood there for a minute to take it all in. So if you didn't know already today I am featuring Vanessa from MUSE Jar on the blog as a Woman Who Moves Buffalo because of her pure creativity and passion she has brought into the Western New York community.

Majoring in the film industry in NYC Vanessa moved back home and started working at Red Fish Art Studio {located next door to Musejar}. While she was there she noticed that there weren’t any art supply stores in the area and decided to open shop.

2+ years later things are only getting bigger and better for her. Not only does Musejar offer a wide variety of supplies {paint brushes, chalk spray paint, Rublev Natural Paint Pigment, etc.}, but she also hosts an array of art classes {public and private} , parties for all ages {Birthday, Bridal, Holiday, etc.} and collaborates with a lot of local businesses in and out of East Aurora on a number of events. And if you don’t see an art supply you need, she can order them for you!

{Just a Blonde in Buffalo photos}

Outside of her store, Vanessa does offer offsite lessons and parties – she has done workshops with Fisher Price and has started working with Mandala School in East Aurora to help fill a void with art programs being cut. Her business is a great space to go, for those who still want to get a great art experience.

{Just a Blonde in Buffalo photo}

When asked what some of her favorite areas of her business are, she said she loves the farm-to-table events and wants to grow them more, hoping to make it more of a retreat and offering the full experience. She loves events where she can collaborate with other people and businesses. "The possibilities are endless when you can work with more people." Hosting kids birthday parties are also a favorite of Vanessa’s. "The raw creativity that comes out of it is amazing." Being surrounded by creativity everyday keeps her very inspired. Instructors and students who walk through these doors, they are all a daily inspiration for her.

{Just a Blonde in Buffalo photo}

When I asked her what she loves about Western New York she said she loves the East Aurora community, everyone is very supportive of one another and help each other to succeed. The town is changing and evolving and people are being open-minded. Being here is exciting, young families are moving back and the area feels like a “little Brooklyn.”

There are a number of things about MUSEjar that I love, but the one that sticks out the most is that it’s one of a kind. Vanessa taps into areas that you don’t normally think of. When talking with Vanessa she gives off a great energy and you can tell she loves what she does and is passionate in her work. I asked her what MUSEjar means and she said an inspirational jar. She wants people to walk in the store and get inspired, by the supplies, artwork and environment. The goal is to have the store be one large jar of inspiration and it certainly was for me.

Stop by the Holiday Market event she is hosting on December 19th during the East Aurora Carolcade. Come before, during or after the event to check out her shop and the other participating vendors. Let's help make this a destination spot to visit every year.

{MUSEjar photo from website}