Roanoke Shopper

Blue Ribbon Boutique Celebrates Something New

Blue Ribbon Boutique located on the Historic Farmer's Market has a new Web site!  Check out www.blueribbonboutique.com to learn more about the fun and unusual gifts featured by this outstanding retailer.  Vicki Harwell, owner, has exquisite taste and does a top-notch job when it comes to buying for the store at "market" and merchandising her great finds in the 208 Market Street location.

You'll love the window displays, but don't miss all the goodies tucked away inside this multi-level haven for shoppers.  There are baby gifts, Small Talk decorative plaques...my favorite is "Roanoke...home is where your story begins," great soaps, fun file folders for your office, greeting cards and many other beautiful finds.

Make time to stop in soon, visit with Vicki and check out the wonderful merchandise at Blue Ribbon Boutique!

Happy Shopping!!

New Yoga Studio Opens in Downtown Roanoke

Happy July everyone!

Wanted to let folks know about the new Uttara Yoga Studio which has just opened in downtown Roanoke.  Jill Loftis, owner, has been looking for space for her studio for quite awhile, and we are pleased that she has chosen 112-B Kirk Avenue. 

Check the Web site for the summer class schedule...for downtown workers there are classes convenient to the lunch hour which is terrific!

Jill also has several summer workshops scheduled that you may be interested in attending.  They are as follow:

Saturday, July 12 - 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.                                                

Workshop:  Yoga for Non-Flexible Bodies

Can't touch your toes (or maybe even your knees)?  Start here - a gentle introduction to yoga using chairs, props and other tools to make yoga accessible for every BODY.  Includes breathing techniques and stress reduction techniques.  Fee:  $20

Saturday, July 26 - 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Workshop:  Shakti Girl; Yoga for Girls Ages 9 - 13

Learn ways to take care of our growing bodies and minds; we'll talk about dealing with stress and school; ways to focus and relax; and how to become stronger and more flexible in our bodies and minds.  Fee:  $15

Saturday, August 2 - 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Workshop:  Power Yoga for Fitness

Think yoga is just for gentle stretching and relaxation?  There are lots of different types of yoga, and this is yoga to elevate your heart rate, strengthen and stretch your body, and get a good workout.  We'll finish with a deep relaxation to integrate the experience.  Fee:  $15

Saturday, August 9 - 2 - 4 p.m.

Workshop:  Introduction to Integral Yoga

Integral Yoga is a type of Hatha Yoga, which includes postures, breathing practices, deep relaxation and meditation.  This type of yoga is very getnle and accessible to anyone, even if you've never tried yoga before.  Fee:  $20

Saturday, August 23 - 11 a.m. - Noon

Workshop:  Yoga for Children

A class for children ages 5 - 12; parents can drop the children off, or Mom or Dad can take the class, too!  We'll explore yoga poses and different ways of breathing to stay healthy; play some games; and learn tools to help us with school, sports, and life.  $10 per child; siblings $5; no charge for parent or caretaker.

We welcome Jill to downtown Roanoke and her new business, Uttara Yoga Studio!

More Dunkin' for City of Roanoke

In the March 12 edition of the Sun Herald , the newspaper for the Gulf coast of Mississippi, we learn that Dunkin' Donuts, the largest coffee and bakery fast food chain in the world, is expanding to increase franchise locations in the US.  Northern Virginia, the District, as well as the City of Roanoke and state of West Virginia are all targeted for for the opening of more than 70 new stores over the next few years.

The additional stores meet the expansion goals for Dunkin' Donuts and provide a network of stores allowing the company to invest in a districtuion model that "ensures consistent, high-quality products that customers expect when visiting a Dunkin' Donuts location."  The company offers franchisees an array of store designs and venues, including the free-standing model, stores in shopping centers and convenience stores, and other retail venues. 

Anyone looking for a franchise opportunity?  Now may be your chance!  Contact Lynette McKee, CFE and vice-president of franchising at 781.737.3000 for more information.

Dunkin' Donuts sells 2.7 million cups of coffee each day and almost one billion cups annually, with over 7,200 restaurants located in 31 different countries.  The company is based out of Canton, Massachusetts.

Trio Announces Cocktails for a Cause Schedule!

Trio Bistro Bar Bottle located at the corner of Church Avenue and Market Street (315 Market, SE) has announced their joint venture with Bella Magazine to bring us 2008 Cocktails for a Cause!  Every Wednesday from 5 - 8 pm, Trio donates a portion of ALL proceeds to area organizations.  Beneficiaries for the month of April and the new 2008 season are as follow:

April 2nd     YMCA of Roanoke

April 9th      Children's Advocacy Center

April 16th    CASA

April 23rd    Roanoke Arts Festival

April 30th    Roanoke Dog Park

As we move into spring in the Roanoke Valley,  get out, enjoy the weather and stop by TRIO with friends to network and have fun while helping out area non-profits!  See you there!!

310 Rosemont Presents "Milly" Spring Styles & Trunk Show!

Join the staff at 310 Rosemont for their Thursday, March 13 "Milly" Trunk Show, along with Milly representatives!

This contemporary women's collection is designed by Fashion Institute of Technology graduate (FIT), Michelle Smith, fulfilling her lifelong love of fashion. Launched in 2000, the smart line of clothing features sleek silhouettes, amazing fabrics and a bright and confident style that women love. 

The Milly line has been worn by many of thestars...actresses Jennifer Aniston, Gwyneth Paltrow, Rachel McAdams, Jessica Biel and Cameron Diaz have all been spotted in Milly designs!  Milly is sold at 310 Rosemont, but also at stores to include Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue...so, shoppers can buy locally without the travel expense!

The show starts at 5 pm at 310 Rosemont located at 312 Market Street in downtown Roanoke.  Hors d'oeurves will be served!

Need Houseplants? Try Mike's Country Market!

In searching for nice greenery to place around the house, I stopped by Mike's Country Market located at 4330 Brandon Avenue on Saturday.  Hearing through the grapevine that they would have exactly what I was looking for, I made the drive.  Mike's is located in the City of Roanoke; however, very close to the Salem line. 

Pleasantly surprised by the selection, Mike's has a good inventory of plants, and reasonably priced!  The Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), an excellent plant for indoor use and easily identified by it's yellow-marbled heart-shaped leaves, was available in three different size pots to include a hanging basket and three varieties.  The most common, “Golden Pothos” is most often used in interior businesses.  Two other varieties are “marble queen” featuring a streaky white on green leaf and “jade” which is totally green.  Pothos continues to be popular as it can tolerate lower light, lower humidity and cooler temperatures than other plants.

The ivies (Hedera) found in Mike's greenhouse were attractive, some variegated, some large leafed and some small leafed, some edged in white, others in gold.  A nice selection! Most  ivies  grow best in bright light, but not direct sun. They tolerate low to medium light, but growth is reduced and variegated forms may turn all green. To maintain the bright color of a variegated ivy, give it plenty of light.  Ivies can be grown with artificial light, or near a north, east or west window.

Mike's is a good stop if you are on the market for houseplants to add a bit of pizazz to your home.  I've mentioned just a few...there are many to choose from at this charming country store located in the City of Roanoke.

For more information, conatact (540) 989-2716.

One City Plaza Suites Offer Downtown Living with Spectacular Views

I was invited to drop by and visit the new residential rental units located atop of One City Plaza in downtown Roanoke.  Located at 312 2nd Street, SW above Blue 5 Restaurant, these residential units occupy floors 4 and 5 of the building.  The 7 units range in size from 900 s.f. to 1,700 s.f. with 11 foot ceilings.  There are 1 & 2 bedroom units, a handicapped equipped unit and studio apartments featuring 1 and 2 baths, high efficiency heat pumps, and central air. 

The views from these units are amazing and are what make One City Plaza Suites appealing.  Additionally, the large windows, tasteful countertops, hardwood floors,  and state of the art security system lend these units as attractive rental options for downtown living.  They are also ideal for local corporations seeking corporate apartments.

For more information, individuals may contact 540.588.5159 or 540.797.9657.

Present Thyme Offers Unique Shopping Experience

On my visit to Towers Mall today, I was lured into Present Thyme simply by the fascinating window displays.  Located on the lower level of Towers at 1016 23rd Street, Present Thyme offers a wonderful collection of eclectic furnishings, accessories, linens, fine art and clothing.  The southwest city store is Roanoke's own version of ABC Home & Carpet in New York City...unusual, one of a kind goods for the home, or, for you!

The owner, Liz Barudin has a terrific eye when it comes to buying for her store.  I  noticed a few new lines being carried by the retailer.  A display of geometrically designed, tapered candles handmade by the women of South Africa...very colorful with great designs, making a terrific gift for friends!  Also, there are beautiful metallic crosses to be used as "sit arounds" for tables or bookshelves,  hand crafted by a Houston artisan.  The Greg Osterhaus paintings continue to brighten the walls of Present Thyme bringing character to each room display.  And the clothes and jewelry are stunning!

My favorites for the day were an amazing pine hutch, large enough to accommodate several china patterns and beautiful silk bed linens.  Gotta have them!

If you've not previously made Present Thyme a stop in your day, well...there's no time like the present!  You won't be disappointed.

Happy Shopping!

Jack Rogers Comes to Roanoke for Spring & Summer

I was in Dandelion Feet the other day and noticed their exquisite new line up for spring and summer.  Of special interest were the Jack Rogers sandals.  A family-run business based out of Hallandale, FL, Jack Rogers has been making these popular shoes for decades.   A bit preppy and one of those "got to have them," it was fashion icon Jackie Kennedy that made these leather hand-made sandals famous.  Not only were the sandals a favorite, but Mrs. Kennedy wore her Jack Rogers to mass on Palm Sunday in 1963! 

These Navajo classics are named for the Native American whipped-stitch look...an inspiration for "Miss Navajo." This easy to love look comes in all colors and can go casual or elegant.

Take a look...Dandelion Feet is located on the Historic Farmer's Market in downtown Roanoke at 108 Church Avenue, SE.  Or, if you're not a downtown shopper, be sure and check out the fine Jack Rogers selection at Bush-Flora Shoes, located on the upper level of Towers Mall in southwest Roanoke.

Roanoke Retailer Brings Valentine's Wish Night!

310 Rosemont, one of Roanoke's finest boutiques featuring ladies and men's apparel, invites shoppers to their Wish List evening.  The event will be held tonight, Wednesday, February 6 from     6 - 8 pm at their 312 Market Street location on the Historic Farmer's Market in downtown Roanoke.  Come by and make a list for your Sweetheart...just to make their shopping for you a bit easier (plus you get what you want!).  Or, pick up a special gift for your very own Sweetheart.   The selection is amazing and you're sure to find something that pleases that special someone~see you there!