#BuffaloLinks

This week is all about local businesses and supporting them.

1} Love the zoo and want to celebrate Luna and Kali (the polar bear cubs), then come out to their birthday party on Saturday and enjoy a variety of activities during the day all while celebrating their special day.

2} Opening on Small Business Saturday the Lockhouse Distillery will be open from 12-8pm on Saturdays and Sundays during the holiday season. Come out buy a bottle of vodka and get a tour of the place.

3} Saturday is Small Business Saturday, get out there and shop small and shop local. Money spent in local business stays local. Hit Hertel, Main St. in Williamsville, East Aurora, Orchard Park, Elmwood Ave., Allen St. and see what local businesses have to offer.

4} Black Friday is crazy with stores having tons of deals. Make sure you get out to Ooo La La Boutique's turning Black Friday Pink! early to get 50% off anything in the store from 7-7:30am. And throughout the day enjoy other discounts that you won't be able to pass up!

Monday Morning WrapUp #PushGo

Today on the Monday morning recap I'm talking fashion and local business from the Elmwood Village. Over the weekend I attended the Mass Appeal show at the Pierce Arrow Building. It was my first time attending the very popular fashion event that I've always heard things about. It was also my first time inside the Pierce Arrow Building; it was a neat building I liked the look of it and it fit with the theme of the show, urban trendy, it had an old factory look type thing going on.

I thought the overall show was good, it was like any other fashion show I've attended, it was entertaining and creative, but it didn't "wow" me. I thought the VIP area was minimal and could have been more elaborate, but I did like the displays of designers work on manikins and the fact that you could talk with the designers about it. I also do like the comradery from the Elmwood Village- boutiques, designers, restaurants all coming together to put on an event to raise money to better their neighborhood. It shows the sense of community in the area and its a night for everyone to showcase their talents, put aside any differences and support each other. After the show buffaBlog hosted an after party - we didn't stay to long after the show ended, but we were able to catch the aerial acrobatic person who was performing over the stage. It was a nice touch to see when walking out.

If you attended what did you think? Did you enjoy, not enjoy, let me know your thoughts.

-B

{ VIP Area }

#FridayFavorites

I've been in a little bit of a "hibernation" mode this past week and half or so. I'm working on a pretty big project that I can't wait to finish and share with everyone. Here are some of my favorite things that stuck with me from this past week. -B

{ quote I found on lululemon's Instagram }

{ honoring the Armed Forces at the Bills game on Sunday is always one of my favorites from the pregame festivities }

{ though there is a typo - I didn't graduate from the University at Buffalo - I graduated from Buffalo State - it was pretty cool seeing my name in the paper - I work for a great place and am honored for this opportunity }

{ its the Holiday season so what better way to give then to give a Buffalo Bisons Holiday Pack }

{ well what are you waiting for - Deck the Halls 2013 to benefit the Hunter's Hope Foundation is on 12.7.13 at the Knox Estate. Get your tickets at any one of the participating boutiques (check out the event page on facebook) you aren't going to want to miss this }

Words for Wednesday

Each day we should do something for ourselves - whether its a 5 minute break to clear your head, volunteering, shopping, going for a run or calling someone special in your life. We all deserve to live happy lives so why not live the happiest one you can...

-B

Buffalo Links

Here are some links to check out this week:

1} I came across this website yesterday - if you're a pie lover you may want to check this place out - the only downside is if you live in Buffalo it may be a drive for you. Check them out online Portage Pie

2} Working for Downtown hosts Thursdays in the City every Thursday from 5-8pm at Papaya. Come together and network with each other.

3} If you love reading and want to help children's literacy in the area check out the fundraiser Best Sellers Party that Nickel City Professional is hosting on Friday at the Hotel Lafayette.

4} Saturday Night is a hot fashion event taking place in the Elmwood Village; Mass Appeal

Monday Morning Wrap Up

A Monday is great after a Bills win, lots of fun stuff happened this weekend- a Sabres win on Friday, the Gatsby event at the Statler on Saturday and so much more. Today I want to "vent" about the Bills experience though. Being a diehard fan of theirs I must say I have observed each home game this season and need to share some things with you; the security that is hired - who hires them? because I think its horrible! Not to be biased because women can do things men can do, but a girl who is smoking and texting while drunken fans leave the stadium - hello - you are hired to make sure fans are leaving in an orderly way and not stumbling down hills or getting into fights, older staff who can hardly move and look like they belong in Elderwood "patrolling" up and down the stands during the game- you can hardly walk so if there is a fight taking place you'll be sure to see them arrive after its done and over with, I'm sure there is another position you could work at- oh and lets not forget the fan hotline commercial that plays on the HD Board during the 4th quarter- why even play it, people have already gotten into a fight or have left and lets not forget the "great" fans who get annihilated and care more about talking and squeezing in as many friends who sit in different sections in to one tiny seat - why did you leave the tailgate then? Oh and those fans who think they know what there talking about and scream out wrong penalties - thank you for showing everyone around you that you don't know anything about football.

Do I sound harsh? I'm sorry if I do, but is this really what going to a National Football League game is now? Is this the new norm? Because call me old school, but going to football games meant watching the game, cheering for your favorite team and hoping to get the win. Don't get me wrong I love my season tickets and I am lucky to be around season tickets holders that I enjoy and get along with greatly, but I feel as though people now have forgot about the real reason their at a football game - you should be there for the football. Yes, enjoy the experience - tailgate, have some beers, have some laughs, make jokes and nag on the fans wearing opponents jerseys, but also be condescend of the people around you. People take things to far and forget the real reason why their at a football game.

While these observations are just that, the fact that I said something that someone else may be thinking makes me feel better.

Enjoy your Monday and Go Bills!

-B

#FridayFavorites

This week hasn't been to bad, busy, but also feeling like I accomplished a lot on that "to-do" list. I hope your week was just as productive. Go Sabres!

-B

{ As many times as I've been in the Hotel Lafayette, Monday was the first time I ate at the Pan American Grill & Brewery- it was good }

{ Walking through the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago last weekend, these Zebra statues remind me of the gum Fruit Stripes when I was a little kid }

{ Arriving back in Buffalo Sunday, I came home to gloomy skies, the total opposite from Chicago's sunny morning }

{ Everyone should love themselves because if you don't, then who do you expect to love you?!? I love my new "nerdy chic" glasses from Bonlook, I will probably be wearing these more often now }

Welcome Back

I can finally say I am excited to watch hockey again. Finally, the Buffalo Sabres made a change and brought excitement back (at least for me). Ted Nolan and my favorite player of all time Pat La La La Lafontaine!

I can't wait to see what the future holds and what these two powerhouse men do for the future of the organization. One things for sure, I can't wait to watch the game tomorrow night at home against Toronto. I know things won't change over night, but I think this is a step in the right direction. The team will learn what it means to play with heart and emotion with Nolan behind the bench.

Props to the Sabres Organization for making a change and one I'm excited about.

What do you think of the news?

-B

Words for Wednesday

One of my favorite event planners {David Tutera} posted this on his Instagram account and it sums up exactly what I try and do everyday - Inspire people to be the best person they can be.

-B

Buffalo Links

1}

On the plane home from Chicago I read an article about a non profit organization Because I Said I Would, its an organization that challenges people to fulfill things they may not otherwise fulfill, such as running 4, 5k's in a year, etc. Even though its not a Buffalo based organization I still think the message is significant and wanted to share with you.

2}

In a few short weeks at Queen City Market is hosting a shopping event for everyone who loves to buy local. Check out more info here

3}

I'm in love with Love, MIA accessories. For any gal who wants to embrace the vintage style, their products are so pretty.

4}

This Friday at the Steel Plant Museum is Exhibit Opening Gala a free event open to the public, showcasing the Bethlehem Steel Administration Building.

5}

The amazing Lizzy Dugan is offering Holiday Glam Classes for those who want to know how to learn some of the latest and greatest Holiday hair and makeup tips. For more info you can go here

Monday Morning WrapUP

Its the beginning of a new week, and I'd like to start a new "mini-series" on the blog on Mondays called "Monday Morning Wrap Up." Its basically an interactive post that collaborates a wrap up of random stories, gossip, events and all that fun stuff that I saw or heard during the weekend and I want to know if you heard about it, if you were there, what your opinion is, etc. How was your weekend? How did you spend it? Did you stumble upon anything fun, good, bad, weird?

First, let me tell you I seem to run into someone I know or at least one person who has been from Buffalo when I travel - this past weekend I saw a random person sporting Buffalo Bills gear running the streets of Chicago and then to my surprise I ran into a colleague of mine at the airport traveling back home.

The Buffalo Bills game: How many people went or know someone who took the drive down to Pittsburgh for the game?

Erie County Fairgrounds: Did you attend the Christmas in the Country this weekend? I've never been, I'd love to know is it worth going? What types of vendors are there?

The Believe Campaign: Do you have little ones at home? Did you go to the mall this weekend and write your letter to Santa at Macy's for the Believe campaign?

Veterans Day: Did any of you attend any Veterans Day services this weekend to honor ones you know who served or are currently serving?

Snow: How many of you saw snow this weekend? I was on Instagram and a few people I follow posted pictures of snow! I know I'm not ready for that yet. Are you?

-B

Veterans Day

{Veterans Day} is an official United States holiday which honors people who have served in the armed services.

Today and everyday I am thankful for those who serve and have served our Country. To those I personally know who have served and are still serving for us, thank you for being strong, brave and the most courageous people I know. I applaud you and am honored to have you in my life. xo

-B

#FridayFavorites

Its been another productive week and with that comes a handful of some of my favorite things. Enjoy your weekend- if you have time check out Christmas in the Country at the Fairgrounds going on now through Sunday. ;) -B

{ I had the opportunity to read to some children at CSAT this week for "Celebration of Reading" - it was a fun time! }

{ Like It, Tweet It, Pin It, - a social media event put on by the Boutique Bridal Party was a great way to meet new people and very informative for those looking to learn more in the social media field - held at the Thirty One Club - its on the list to go back and check out there food and drinks! }

{ Via Business First - Congrats to La Nova and Casa di Pizza }

{ I'm so excited to be working with Kelly from Red Lantern Creative to create my custom holiday cards this year - can't wait to see how they turn out! }

{ I've never heard of this event before, but it looks like it would be a pretty fun time to go to }

{ My first time there ever was for Happy Hour- while the service was a little slow, the company was great! #anightfulloflaughs }

A place that has it all

A couple weeks ago I went on a wine tour with friends and we made a stop at one of my favorite spots that has it all ... Becker Farms. Offering wine tasting at Vizcarra Vineyards, a tasteful amount of brews at Becker Brewing, a shop that offers jams, fudge, baked goods, fruits, vegetables all while surrounded by beautiful scenery, it makes it a place to visit all year round - not just during the fall season.

Becker Farms is also known to be a great spot for those looking for a wedding venue or event space. They also offer activities such as; a concord stomp, hayrides and school tours. A place that offers a lot of variety.

Have you been? Do you like? Don't like? Let me know in the comments section below.

-B

{ A couple good apples }

No Shave November ...

How many of you have heard, saw or know someone who is participating in "No Shave November" - a fun and simple way to raise funds and awareness for the American Cancer Society.

Throughout the month of November people are raising awareness by embracing their hair - which others lose when they have cancer. The money you save from not shaving for the month can be donated to your local American Cancer Society.

So tell me how many of you are participating in this unique awareness program?!?

To learn more you can click here.

Show your support by posting pictures and spreading the word on social media.

-B

Buffalo Links

 

Today is election day, did you or will you be voting? For more info on voting in NYS click here

Have a toddler in your house? Head to the Buffalo History Museum for Toddler Story Time - 10 am today - more info here

Love social media and want to learn more? Head over to the 31 Club on Wednesday {11.6} from 5:30 -8:30 the Boutique Bridal Party is hosting a social media event. Tickets are $20 for non-members and can be purchased here

Thursday is a Girls Night Out at Salvatore's. So if you were planning on a happy hour with your g/f's head there and get a little shopping done! Here is more info

This weekend Macy's kicks off there annual Believe campaign. People (specifically children) can go into any Macy's store and write a letter to Santa. For every letter dropped off to a Macy's store they will donate a $1 back to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. For more info on this wonderful campaign click here

Over the weekend I had the opportunity to meet some great gals from the Salon and Spa in the Tower (located in Clarence). If you're looking to get your make-up, hair, nails, etc. done check out there website for hours and pricing.

November To-Do's

November is finally upon us and we are getting closer and closer to the Holiday season. I mean can you believe radio stations are already playing Christmas music?!? I'm all for celebrating and singing along to Rockin' around the Christmas Tree, but I would like to get to Thanksgiving and enjoy that Holiday before we rush to Christmas.

Anywho... this month in particular I am trying to focus on myself more, while I have always been a person to say yes more than no, I find myself taking on more than usual this time of year. With that being the case, I made a list of things I would like to do for "me" this month. Some of them are: take a tour of City Hall in Downtown, Buffalo, run in the Turkey Trot, continue to do more Charitable work at a higher level, take a tour of the Martin Complex and prepare for a great fashion show in the beginning of December.

While we should always be thankful for the blessings and lessons we learn in our lives, we should try to make more of a conscious effort to be thankful for the ones we care about the most and the opportunities we have had and the ones that await us.

Share your November "To-Do's" in the comments below. I'd love to hear from you!

-B

{ Trick or Treat }

Happy Halloween! I'll never forget one of my favorite memories as a kid was getting dressed up and heading to my Grandma's house on Beggar's Night and going trick or treating with my cousins, sometimes I wish I could still do that!

Whether you're dressing up, going trick or treating, handing out candy, attending the Witches Ball, or watching Charlie Brown's - It's the Great Pumpkin enjoy your day! ; )

-B

Trick or Treat times {around town courtesy of WGRZ.com}

ERIE COUNTY

Akron- 6pm - 8pm Fire whistle will sound at beginning and end times.

Alden- 6pm - 8pm

Amherst- No Specific Times Trick-or-Treat at the Amherst Museum's historic buildings on Oct. 29-30. For more information, www.amherstmuseum.org.

Angola- 6pm - 8pm Halloween Parade on Main St. into the village on Saturday Oct. 30 at 2pm.

Aurora- No Specific Times

Blasdell- 5:30pm - 8:30pm

Brant- 6pm - 8pm

Cheektowaga- 6pm - 8pm

Clarence- 5pm - 8pm Halloween in the Park Oct. 23 at 5-8pm at the Main St. Town Park

Colden- No Specific Times

Depew- 6pm - 8:30pm

East Aurora- No Specific Times

Eden- 5pm - 8pm

Elma- 5pm - 8pm

Evans- 6pm - 8pm Halloween Party in the Evans Town Park on Oct. 23, noon -3pm.

Grand Island- 5pm - 8pm

Hamburg- 6pm - 8pm Children's Halloween Party at Hilbert College's Campus Center on Oct. 24, 2-4pm.

Holland- Curfew is at 8:30pm, trick-or-treaters can begin anytime prior.

Lackawanna- 5pm - 8pm

Lancaster- 6pm - 8:30pm

Marilla- No Specific Times

Newstead- 6pm - 8pm

North Collins 6pm-8pm

Orchard Park- 6pm - 9pm Halloween Party and Parade at Green Lake Yates Park on Oct. 30 at 6pm. Chesnut Ridge Casino Halloween Fundraiser "Howl at the Ridge" on Oct 29, 8pm-11pm.

Sardinia- No Specific Times Kiwanis Halloween Party at Town Hall on Oct. 31 at 7pm.

Sloan- 6pm - 8pm on October 30 Village Halloween Party and Parade at Sloan Fire Hall, at 6:15pm-9pm.

Springville- No Specific Times

Town of Tonawanda- No Specific Times

Wales- dusk - 9pm

West Seneca- 6pm - 8pm

Williamsville- No Specific Times Children's Halloween Costume Contest and Parade at Island Park on Oct. 30 at 5:30pm.

NIAGARA COUNTY

Barker- 5pm - 7pm

Hartland- No Specific Times

Lewiston- 4pm - 8pm

Lockport- 4pm - 8pm

Middleport- 4pm - 6pm Halloween Party at Middleport Fire Hall on Oct. 31 at 6-8pm.

Newfane- 4pm - 7pm

Niagara Falls- 3pm - 7pm Little Monster Parade and Monster Mash Breakfast on Oct. 30 starting at 9am on Old Falls St. For more information, www.FallsStreet.com.

North Tonawanda- 5pm - 8pm

Pendleton- No Specific Times

Porter- 5pm - 7:30pm

Royalton- 3pm -7pm

Wheatfield- 4pm - 7pm

Wilson- 4pm - 7pm Costume Party and Parade at the Wilson Fire Hall on Oct.31 after 7pm.

Youngstown- 5pm - 7:30pm Halloween Party at the Youngstown Recreation Center on Oct. 31 at 1pm-3pm.

Words for Wednesday

{ follow my favorite quotes board on Pinterest }

Yes, actions can speak louder than words, but sometimes all anyone needs is to hear a few nice things and it can turn their day upside down. So the next time you see someone who looks like they may be having a "rough" day, try and say something nice - you'll be surprised how good you feel afterwards.

-B

Buffalo Links

This week is full of fun events. Take a look:

1. Saturday Night is Roswell Park Cancer Institute's All Star Night Gala. For more info on this event click here

2. For those who love fashion - Saturday Night Ooo La La Boutique is hosting there annual Local Designer Fashion Show - more info can be found here

3. What better place to celebrate Halloween than at the Witches Ball at the Lafayette Hotel on Thursday night

4. Wednesday the Lafayette Hotel is host to the wonderful Cocktails in Character event to benefit Literacy New York-Buffalo Niagara - Attendees are encouraged to dress as their favorite book character

5. With the holidays quickly approaching us more people tend to participate in charitable giving - an organization I have been a part of for a long time now and is near and dear to me, is the Make-A-Wish Foundation - take a look at the wonderful things they do here