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Downtown’s Valentine’s Day Gift Guide, it’s all about Pampering in 2021

Romance is in the Air!

 

Even with a worldwide pandemic, love wins. With the best intentions sometimes life just gets in the way, our editors are here to help make your Valentine’s Day shopping a little bit easier from smooth silky chocolates to a little something for her, we have you covered, or in some cases, slightly covered.

 

Returning this season, MarieBelle offering the sweetest gift for that special chocolate lover in your life with their Izak Zenou Valentine’s Day Ganache Box, Truffle Box, and Chocolate Bars. The one-of-a-kind truly delicious, decadent, fluffy light collections are adorned with the artwork of renowned fashion illustrator Izak Zenou. Our CEO commented, ” decadent, delicious, and superb a must-have, a very special gift”

Downtown's Valentines Day Gift Guide, it's all about Pampering in 2021
Izak Zenou Valentine’s Collection ©MarieBelle

 

Acclaimed jewelry designer, Kristin Hanson’s artistic inspiration has no limit. Her impressive portfolio of work has garnered international distinction, with features in Vogue Italia, Harper’s Bazaar China, and W Magazine among others. Sold at select Neiman Marcus stores and a number of independent jewelry retailers. We fell in love with this romantic necklace and earrings.

Pink Drop Necklace $5,000.00 Water Ring Studs -$5,650.00

Downtown's Valentines Day Gift Guide, it's all about Pampering in 2021
Kristin Hanson jewelry designer

 

Active Cashmere, this lovely water repellent, machine washable, and durable, cashmere reinventing the way cashmere is worn. They offer a modern point of view on cashmere which embraces minimalism, comfort, and innovation. Their uniquely treated pure cashmere yarn provides functional features to their garments while maintaining the utmost quality.

Standard Crop Hoodie $595.00

A staple seamless standard weight relaxed fit cropped hoodie with a ribbed cuff and “v” detail and straight tubular bottom hem. Made from the finest pure cashmere Scottish yarn, treated with our unique formula making this garment water repellent and machine washable, providing more durability without sacrificing softness, breathability, or lasting quality.

 

2021 Downtown's Valentines Day Gift Guide its all about Pampering
Active Cashmere

 

Beanie $150.00

This core unisex ribbed beanie made from the finest pure cashmere Scottish yarn and treated with a unique formula, making this garment water repellent and machine washable; providing more durability without sacrificing softness, breathability, or lasting quality.

 

2021 Downtown's Valentines Day Gift Guide its all about Pampering
Active Cashmere

 

 

HOYA JACKET – GREY $250.00

WILL-V was built to support a lifestyle that is naturally influenced by sport and athletics. New York City – we place value on delivering a quality, comfortable, and purposeful product that will last.

 

Downtown's Valentines Day Gift Guide, it's all about Pampering in 2021
WILL-V Jacket

 

PRACTICE SHORT – GREY $80.00

 

 

WILL-V Practice

 

 

Mujjo pride itself in creating products that don’t disappoint, they think their products are perfect for a special gift. So much so they created a 15% discount on all products from our site, Mujjo.com – coupon: #14 (valid through the 14th)

 

Touchscreen Gloves Mujjo

 

With Valentine’s Day Weekend just a few weeks away, Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown is the perfect backdrop for romantic celebrations for two, or for some indulgent self-care either alone or with a friend, while enjoying a city staycation at one of New York’s most iconic luxury hotels. Choose from an array of offerings that celebrates both romantic love and most importantly, self-love.

Just For Two

The Hotel’s Just For Two package is a romance package, designed to make the most of Valentine’s Day weekend or anytime throughout February 2021, with the ultimate city staycation. Celebrate with a bottle of champagne on arrival, enjoy breakfast for two through In-Room Dining and relax with a late check-out of 2:00 pm to make the most of an overnight getaway.

 

The Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown

 

This special package also includes a beautiful Rose Revival SOAK Service for two. Curated by Senior Spa & Wellness Director Tara Cruz, the in-room SOAK Service is an indulgent treat for in-house guests who wish to take full advantage of the deep soaking tubs featured in every room and suite within the Hotel. The Rose Revival for Two is a couple’s experience, designed to maximize time together with one’s nearest and dearest. Pure Himalayan salts naturally lift spirits while tuberose and lemongrass ignite the feeling of positivity and love. Seasonal citrus and floral notes are elegantly paired with sparkling rosé and decadent homemade treats to satisfy the most elevated palate.

The Just For Two package is available until February 28, 2021, with rates starting at USD $895 per night.

Reservations can be made online or by calling 646 880 1985.

 

The Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown

 

Rouge Flowers Pop-Up Shop

For guests wishing to elevate their experience and surprise their special someone with a beautiful bouquet, a pop-up shop by Rouge Flowers will be stationed in the hotel lobby, with a selection of stunning floral options available for purchase. The pop-up shop will be open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Saturday, February 13, and Sunday, February 14, 2021, with bouquets available from USD $65-$85.

Individual “Ready for Real Love” Hypnosis Session with Resident Healer Nicole Hernandez

This Valentine’s Day, indulge in some self-care with an individual hypnosis session with Resident Healer Nicole Hernandez. Known as “The Traveling Hypnotist,” Nicole Hernandez guides guests through bespoke hypnotic journeys that help unpack and release anxiety, fear, and bad habits. Nicole’s clients experience a greater sense of inner wisdom, confidence, clarity and calmness, better relationships, and deeper sleep.

The “Ready for Real Love” special 60-minute session focuses on love — ranging from deepening self-worth, removing subconscious blocks to intimacy, or even indulging in a past-life regression to explore soulmates.  After the session, Nicole will custom-blend a Soveral healing oil as a take-home gift.

This session is available to experience either in-person at The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown or virtually if preferred. 60 minutes / USD $285

Bookings are essential. To book this special experience, contact The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown at 646 880 1990 or spa.nydowntown@fourseasons.com

Couple’s and Individual Astrology Session with Resident Healer Rebecca Gordon

As the most romantic weekend on the yearly social calendar, Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to schedule an astrological reading with Rebecca Gordon, renowned New York City astrologer and Resident Healer at Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown.

Rebecca Gordon has been practicing astrology since the age of 14 when she was trained and mentored by her mother. In addition to being a celebrated astrologer, Rebecca is an author, presenter, and founder of the 15-year running Astrology School where she offers a suite of classes and workshops. She is also the resident astrologer at Harper’s Bazaar and a regular guest on the Dr. Oz Show. It is Rebecca’s mission to align people with their own unique brand of stardust so they can step into their highest potential.

 

The Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown

 

Choose from two specific options during the month of February 2021 including –

  • Compatibility Astrology – Experience a couple’s session in compatibility astrology and discover the energetic signature between two people. Learn to better understand each other by seeing the cosmic blueprint of a loved one and the relationship dynamic. Both partners’ birth information will be required. 90 minutes / USD $500
  • Love & Partnering – Designed as an individual session, Rebecca will take an in-depth look at one’s natal love signature in the chart, relationship karmas, and then move into an overall love and relationship outlook for the year ahead. Rebecca will explore each guest’s unique passion signature, including a look at their love chart and the year ahead in love. 60 minutes / USD $380

Both astrological readings with Rebecca are available to experience either in-person at The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown or virtually if preferred.

Bookings are essential. To book this special experience, contact The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown at 646 880 1990 or spa.nydowntown@fourseasons.com.

 

The Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown

 

Valentine’s Day at Eataly Downtown

Downtowners love their Eataly, this year Valentine’s Day will be a little different. Many of us will be celebrating with our loved ones at home. This does not mean that you cannot still enjoy Eataly’s delicious, fresh authentic ingredients. Here are some options to help make your Valentine’s Day 2021 even more special.

Let Eataly’s chefs do the cooking!

Valentine’s Day at Eataly Downtown

The most romantic holiday of the year is here, New York!

Whether you want to enjoy a romantic dinner out or share the love at home with friends, family, or neighbors, create the perfect Italian Valentine’s Day from start to finish with high-quality ingredients, prix-fixe dinners for delivery, and more

 

Valentine’s Day at Eataly Downtown

 

ORDER DELIVERY & TAKE-OUT

Share a heart-shaped Neapolitan pizza or a three-course prix-fixe menu with their finest antipasti, pasta, pizza, and desserts, create a romantic Italian evening with your special someone right from the comfort of your own home. Place your order for delivery or take-out on UberEats, Caviar, DoorDash, or Grubhub.

BRING HOME A MEAL MADE IN EATALY

Take the night off and let our chefs do the cooking. Eataly has put together a selection of housemade, ready-to-heat meals that make the perfect pairs (think, tagliatelle plus ragù alla bolognese, and more homemade Italian classics). Don’t forget to grab some heart-shaped pastries from Eataly’s pastry counter for dessert!

 

Valentine’s Day at Eataly Downtown

 

Delicious At-home And In-person Prixe-fixe MenusDinner For Two At Le District Le District is home to the Michelin Star L’Appart and the cozy Beaubourg Brasserie. If you’re ordering in, Le District’s Valentine’s Dinner for Two To-Go provides a four-course meal ready to be enjoyed in your own home.

If you’re looking to dine in, Le District has special lunch and dinner options available for open-air reservations on the outside patio.

The L’appart Valentine’s Lunch includes a romantic 4-course tasting menu for lunch at L’Appart, and Valentine’s Dinner At Beaubourg option consists of a decadent 3-course Prix Fixe. For Le District, Valentine’s Day 2021 is starting on Friday, Feb 12th, 2021, until Sunday, Feb 14th, 2021! They will also have special cakes, macarons, and chocolates at their Coffee District (entrance from the mall). Special Items will be available only during this weekend to celebrate Valentine’s Day at home or at Le District.

Valentine’s Day Dinner Brookfield Place

 

This year New York has pulled out all the stops, give a once in a life time Valentine’s Day gift you that special someone. What about dining on top of the world at  One World Observatory.

Sunday, February 14, ASPIRE, at One World Observatory will transform ASPIRE, the private event space into the ultimate, socially distant dining experience.

Deemed “Love on Top,” an exclusive, festive feast in celebration of Valentine’s Day, guests will indulge in a preset, multi-course menu while providing access to the stunning views of the city.

Brunch will feature delectable offerings including oxtail quiche, North African eggs with short ribs, and poached pear and sugar waffles.

Tickets are limited and reservations are currently being accepted for the 10 am seating. Additional details can be found at www.oneworldobservatory.com.

What are you waiting for? A romantic dinner while overlooking all of New York’s magnificent skyline, waterways, and landscape. Love surely is in the air!

 

One World Observatory

 

Mudras Treatments from $349

This is a special year, you’ve spent every day with her/him during the pandemic, this Valentine’s Day, give a gift that not only captivates all of their senses but also offers a magical relaxation experience, a body reset, with a deep unforgettable healing massage.

Spend a magical Valentine’s Day, give an experience that is truly unique and tailor-made, the perfect place for you to celebrate your love. Mudras for expert tailor-made hands-on massage treatments.

 

Downtown's Valentines Day Gift Guide, it's all about Pampering in 2021
Mudras New York

Meet Off-Broadway, Eau de Parfum + Refillable Lipstick Gift Box, $440.00 an optimistic new fragrance that pays homage to one of New York’s greatest traditions – just in time for Valentine’s Day. Bond’s Off-Broadway opens with a sparkling, attention-getting blend of grapefruit blossom and black currant. This edgy floral unisex scent — is the ultimate Valentine’s Day gift for everyone you love.  Pair with Bond No. 9’s Refillable Lipstick in Broadway, a cool cherry.

 

 

Downtown's Valentines Day Gift Guide, it's all about Pampering in 2021
Off-Broadway Limited Edition with Lipstick Duo

 

Love Hat Box Gift Assortment $83

Laduree this perfect gift box, Rose-flavored meringues, “Marie-Antoinette” tea (20 teabags), a rose-flavored chocolate bar, Napoleon gift Box of 8 macarons: 2 passion fruit heart-shaped macarons, 2 rose-flavored Valentine-printed macarons, 4 classical macarons assorted. Thank you, honey!

 

Downtown's Valentines Day Gift Guide, it's all about Pampering in 2021
Love Hat Box Gift Assortment

 

Give your heart this Valentine’s Day with the best Laudrée
COFFEES + CANDLES + MACAROONS GIFT BOX $40
Great for any coffee drinkers, this gift box contains three unique coffees, Strawberry Verbena macarons from Le Petit Paris, a local French bakery based in Long Island City, and a hand-poured coffee-inspired candle to create a soothing atmosphere and add a sense of warmth to the special day.
Make Way for the Chef Doctor
COFFEES + CANDLES + MACAROONS GIFT BOX
PASSPORT TO COFFEE REGIONS SENSORY KIT $80
Inspired by Coffee Project’s SCA (Speciality Coffee Association) sensory class offered their LIC training center, this package is a self-guided coffee sensory kit to help people explore the three major coffee-growing regions of Asia, Africa, and America from their homes. The kit includes a guidebook filled with fun sensory activities such as taste-testing flavored gummies and experiencing scented sensory vials, before culminating with a coffee tasting of one coffee from each region.
2021 Downtown's Valentines Day Gift Guide its all about Pampering
PASSPORT TO COFFEE REGIONS SENSORY KIT

 

This holiday, The Fladgate Partnership’s three exceptional 2018 Vintage Ports from Taylor Fladgate, Fonseca, and Croft Port house officially hit shelves. Just in time for Valentine’s Day romance at-home, wine lovers can purchase Taylor Fladgate Classic Vintage 2018, Fonseca Guimaraens Vintage 2018, and Croft Quinta da Roêda Vintage 2018.

 

Taylor Fladgate, Fonseca

Zazubean $22.00 is the better-for-you chocolate brand delivering healthy and delicious candy bars your way this Valentine’s Day! Zazubean chocolate is sustainably made using fair-trade certified ingredients and is 100%  organic, vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, and kosher! Their limited edition VALENTINES DAY VARIETY PACK includes six chocolate bars, Bling, Vixen, Nakid, Flirt, Hottie, and Smooch.

2021 Downtown's Valentines Day Gift Guide its all about Pampering
Zazubean Chocolate

 

Glass Hour, by Gregory Harrington, Janacek Philharmonic & Mark Shapiro
A unique gift for your loved one, this Valentine’s Day – Glass Hour – debuted at #3 in the Classical Billboard charts, this beautiful new contemporary album by Gregory Harrington, features a World Premiere Recording of his arrangement “The Hours Suite”. Based on the movie score “The Hours”, for violin and orchestra by Philip Glass along with the Violin Concerto No. 2 “The American Four Seasons”.  Both works recorded with the Janacek Philharmonic under the nuanced direction of conductor Mark Shapiro.
For a signed and personalized copy, order here 
2021 Downtown's Valentines Day Gift Guide its all about Pampering
Glass Hour -by Gregory Harrington, Janacek Philharmonic Philharmonic & Mark Shapiro Conductor, Gregory Harrington Violin

Booking.com‘s “Love Letter to New York” stays at Bryant Park’s Winter Village on February 13 and February 14 for $14.21. Guests will be treated to shopping vouchers for the Winter Village Shoppes, igloo reservations, dinner and drinks at Bryant Park Grill and Café, private midnight ice skating, and more. This is the perfect staycation for celebrating Valentine’s Day safely, as the lucky consumers who book the experience will be staying solo with all the proper COVID-19 protocols and measures observed.

These exclusive stays can be booked on Booking.com starting on February 12, 2021, at 2:00 PM.

 

Valentine’s Day Bryant Park, New York City

 

The Valparaíso $260.00

Adelante makes shoes that are on par with the highest quality footwear in the market at a fraction of the price. Made-to-order models that deliver a personalized pair direct from Guatemala within 10 days. Connecting each customer with their shoemaker throughout the production process. Give him the best!

 

 

 

Fuzzy Shopper Nude $150.00

Our FUZZY SHOPPER is so EXTRA! Made of the softest luxe faux shearling and lined with a water-resistant liner. This fab and giant shopper is the perfect size for all your needs. With subtle ROAM woven double straps, you can carry it over your shoulder or in your hands. This is the perfect weekender, baby bag, gym bag, throw it all in the bag.

 

 

2021 Downtown's Valentines Day Gift Guide its all about Pampering
ROAM FUZZY SHOPPER NUDE

 

 

STAX. TIE DYE 2 – Classic Crop $31.00 and Legging $62.00 – Bubblegum.

This viral activewear brand is worn by all your favorite Insta girls! STAX has won the hearts of Addison Rae, Lucy Hale, Jade Marie, Conaugh Kathleen, and Leah Halton, to name a few. Made to flatter every figure, STAX.’s chic performance sets are a must for any active gal (or trips to Target gals… no judgment). A sweet new look for V-Day!

2021 Downtown's Valentines Day Gift Guide its all about Pampering
STAX TIE DYE
2021 Downtown's Valentines Day Gift Guide its all about Pampering
STAX TIE DYE

 

 

 

YANDY Flirty Fold Over Bustier Set $24.95

For your romantic evening smooth out every inch of your curves with this exclusive bustier set featuring sheer lace triangle cups with a scalloped trim, adjustable spaghetti straps with satin bow accents, a cage back band with a hook and eye closure, a sheer lace cross over bodice, adjustable garter straps, an open back with a tie back closure. Time to heat up this winter.

 

 

2021 Downtown's Valentines Day Gift Guide its all about Pampering
YANDY Flirty Fold Over Bustier

 

 

NOBEL Black Leather $169.00

This modern sneaker from JSlides stuns with a lush shearling mid strap, a contemporary and very cool twist on our classic laceless silhouette. Adjustable hook-and-loop genuine shearling strap. A sweet comfortable gift for her!

 

 

 

 

 

Olay Cleansing & Renewing Body Wash Retinol $7.99 

Cleansing and Renewing Body Wash, with its rich and creamy lather, infuses your skin. Supercharged with Retinol and Vitamin B3 Complex, this nourishing body wash revitalizes and quenches thirsty skin for long-lasting hydration. Plus, it rinses off clean never leaving your skin with an oily, coated feeling.

 

 

Downtown's Valentines Day Gift Guide, it's all about Pampering in 2021
Olay Cleansing & Renewing Body Wash Retinol

 

 

BOTA Warming Muscle Melt Crème $28.00

Info: This crème is infused with cinnamon oil, which has been used by our ancestors as a natural warming mechanism for centuries. Combining warming cinnamon oil, shea butter, and hemp extract, this crème is sure to help you melt away a draining day, workout, or year.

2021 Downtown's Valentines Day Gift Guide its all about Pampering
BOTA Warming Muscle Melt Crème

 

 

BOTA De-Stressing Nightly Face Cream $30.00

Pamper your face each night to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy. Since nightly products absorb into your skin for hours while you sleep, it’s vital to use natural products with ingredients. BOTA™ De-Stressing Nightly Face Cream mixes nature’s best elements to deeply moisturize the skin, reduce redness, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

 

 

 

2021 Downtown's Valentines Day Gift Guide its all about Pampering
2021 Downtown’s Valentine’s Day Gift Guide is all about Pampering

 

 

 

 

Categories
Featured Living

Give a Little Gift this Holiday Season

 

The holiday season can be overwhelming for many reasons. Prepare ahead of time maybe even shop this year for next. If you are looking for personalized gifts, from custom design scarfs to one of a kind wine sets, that anyone will appreciate we have it for you.

We have done the research, here you will find some ideas we’ve discovered for the special person in your life.

Show your appreciation to your hairstylist, teacher, best friend, in-law, babysitter, hard to, please boss, maybe someone who is there for you each and every day, someone who makes your life just a little easier or for the loves in your life.

The Downtown team wants to make your gift-giving more personal and unique this year.

 

Give a Little Gift this Holiday Season
Talsam charms

Talsam is the ultimate wearable, a technology-enabled fashion accessory that is beautifully designed, personalized and easy to use. Talsam’s jewelry allows users to communicate wirelessly through Bluetooth-enabled semi-precious stone charms near or far. Loved ones can send text messages, videos, voice notes, photos, and animated emojis via Talsam’s exclusive app, and the charm lights up and gently vibrates when a message is received.

 

Give a Little Gift this Holiday Season
Birthstone Cuffs

 

We are in love Capsul’s with this all-new birthstone collection, which includes new infinity-shaped birthstone cuffs and rings. Available with Swarovski crystals for each month, making them the perfect personalized gift for any occasion!

 

 

Give a Little Gift this Holiday Season
Grand Enchantment Silk Square

Created by their in-house artist, this silk square by Echo is inspired by the architectural details of Grand Central Station. This New York hub bustles at holiday time, connecting people during the most magical and festive time of the year. This original painting incorporates the most iconic elements of Grand Central: The clock, the ceiling, and the windows. It makes a beautiful gift for that special someone this season.

 

 

Give a Little Gift this Holiday Season
Hand-stitched Leather Goods

BLACKBARN Shop celebrates its internationally sourced products from talented artisans around the world with a focus on Spain, where furniture manufacturer Sol & Luna operates out of Madrid. With a selection of the company’s most elegant leather-bound pieces.

 

Give a Little Gift this Holiday Season
COLOUR-BLOCK LEATHER GLOVES

A timeless accessory from Cos for the cooler season. Designed from leather, wool, and cotton with a cozy cashmere lining, these gloves have been reimagined in a winter palette.

 

Give a Little Gift this Holiday Season
Stainless Steel Cube

 

The Stainless Steel Cube is a study in minimalist design. We fell madly in love Rò Home, and more so with This five-sided accent presents a simple, aesthetically pleasing form that subtly reflects its surroundings. A clean, modern fit for you home or office.

 

Give a Little Gift this Holiday Season
Mon beau Sapin

 

Mon beau Sapin, now comes in a dark green color adorned with a fir bough decorated in white and gold. Its generous, characteristic smell of balsam fir, slightly resinous, slowly guides us towards a reassuring forest. This candle, with its specific wintery enveloping fragrance, brings the finishing touch to the joyful holiday mood and memories past. Can you smell the fragrance from here?

 

Give a Little Gift this Holiday Season
Le Seau à Champagne – Sparkling Wood i

We like to be unique and think outside of the box. We found this CellArt’s Effervescence Divine Limited Edition collection, Le Seau à Champagne – Sparkling Wood a one-of-a-kind 3-pieces Champagne bucket reserved to the grand connoisseur and the refined aesthete. Gift, or if you are like us we want this for ourselves!

The bucket body is made of a selection of dark to chocolate-brown rich black walnut wood externally glazed with an immaculate ink-black sparkling lacquer; a stainless steel mirror interior stand, artfully designed, allow your Champagne bottles, Magnums, or any great vintage of white wine, to cool down in ice and cold water with all due reverences to their labels.

We wish you a Happy Holiday Season!

Categories
Beauty Featured Lifestyle Living

Downtown’s Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide

Our beauty gift guide includes everything you need to satisfy the most beauty-obsessed on your list. From fragrance to body scrubs to seductive love oil, we have selected our favourite things to brighten up the holiday season. And don’t forget to treat yourself as well!

 

Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide
Splendida Bvlgari Tubereuse Mystique

Tuberose is known as the “Mistress of the Night”, a symbol of pure seduction, its aroma is opulent and enchanting, a legendary flower whose allure has hypnotized across centuries and cultures. Because of its temperamental, delicate nature, it is also known as the “Diva of the Field.”

 

Gift Guide
Omnia Coral by Bvlgari

Our CEO’s favorite fragrance by Bvlgari must be featured in our beauty gift guide 2020. Inspired by the shimmering hues of precious red coral, Omnia Coral is a radiant floral-fruity Eau de Toilette of tropical hibiscus and juicy pomegranate. It is reminiscent of summer, the sun, resplendent nature, and far-off oceans. She never leaves home without this delectable, nonintrusive fragrance.

 

Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide
Bond Gold Coast

 

One of our all-time favorites in Bond No. 9. This year, New York’s most iconic fragrance house celebrates in scent the timeless grandeur and youthful vibrancy of one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods. Gold Coast, Bond No. 9 creates a scent snapshot of a city that is always changing, but that retains its character and legacy, the meeting of distinguished old guard New York with the dynamism and spirit of new guard energy. Even the packaging is so very special, Gold Coast’s delicate, yet dynamic, rose scent is reflected in the latest interpretation of Bond No. 9’s iconic Silhouette Bottle, metallic rose gold, laser-engraved with the house’s NY Token signature seal. A must this year!

 

Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide
Bond No9 Fragrances, lipstick,giftboxs,Amphora

Let’s not forget her lips. Bond No. 9 product’s packaging is a gift in of itself. New York Lips Single with Ruby Stones. The most luxurious, high-performance lipstick formula, crafted with the finest ingredients and most innovative technology is all dressed up for the holidays in an opulent refillable gold case covered with hand-applied Ruby Fanci-Stones. This ultimate gift is also a gift to the planet. Refillable. Vegan. Gluten-Free. Cruelty-Free.



A luxurious golden vanity case, SUBLIMAGE Le Coffret unveils two emblematic skincare products from the SUBLIMAGE ritual. Take this ultimate gift with you.

 

 

Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide
Crabtree & Evelyn Body & Hair Oil   

Crabtree & Evelyn, harvesting the nourishing qualities of nature, The Gardeners collection centers on the mind and body. Feed the skin with our Sweet Dreams Overnight Mask. Soothe your soul while you sip our Star Showers Tea. Experiment with a new night-time ritual. Strike a unique balance.

 

Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide
Best Bronze Bronzer

Best Bronze Leg Makeup is high coverage, matte leg makeup that will give you gorgeous, flawless legs in seconds! This simple to use, spray-on makeup instantly camouflages spider veins, stretch marks, scars, uneven skin tone, freckles, and cellulite. Waterproof and transfer-resistant, it won’t come off on clothing or furniture and can even be worn in the water! Made with beeswax to smooth out pores and sweet almond oil to hydrate the skin, Best Bronze Leg Makeup has got you covered.

 

Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide
Laura Mercier 12 Hour Matte Finish

We are loving Laura Mercier’s weightless Texture This lightweight, the finely-milled powder doesn’t add weight or texture to the skin. It doesn’t settle into fine lines and never looks cakey.

Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide
Laura Mercier Caviar Volume Panoramic Mascara and Caviar Stick Eye Color
Laura Mercier’s Caviar Volume Panoramic Mascara offers intense volume, a full panoramic look, and irresistible soft-touch lashes, as it glides on effortlessly to create high-impact volume and glossy intensity in one bold stroke.
Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide
Knours One Perfect Cream
Know your body, a new brand with a great mission for all women. Your skin may feel dry,
dull and tired during the week of your period or during menopause due to lowered estrogen levels. One Perfect Cream is multitasking at its best. Age-defying, brightening, nourishing and moisturizing benefits helps fight visible signs of aging while balancing your hormones to help your skin glow every day.
Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide
Pinch of Color Lip

 

Our Publisher’s new favorite must-have lip color. Waterless in technology and luxurious in a formula, this matte lip color won’t bleed, won’t transfer and won’t budge for over 8-hours+. Infused with natural, lip-nourishing extracts of Rose Hip Oil, Jojoba Oil, and Mango Seed Butter, this highly pigmented lip color glides on to a comfortable, velvet matte finish rich in depth and dimension. Make this year the year to buy the ultimate gift for your lips!

 

Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide
Mudras Body Reset

 

The Mudras Body Reset is a personal customized massage, their signature treatment. Each session is tailor-made, designed to meet your individual needs and to generate optimal results. Give it to someone you (really) love, someone who needs it, or someone with impossible standards.
Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide
High On love Oil
HighOnLove this holiday prepare for love…try love with this superior grade lubricating oil blends made with hemp seed oil. Curated by Angela Mustone, a specialist producer of adult cosmetics, this product line brings heightened style and intimacy, for the discerning woman who knows what she wants in the bedroom.
Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide
Shiffa Mint and Basil Body Scrub
Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide
Shiffa Healing Balm

Dr. Lamees out of personal necessity created her first product, SHIFFA Pregnancy Body Oil, a unique organic oil that both protected her skin and increased her well being. SHIFFA a personal vision- natural healing that promotes beauty from within. Coming home from a long day in New York City, prepare a luxurious bath, champagne, candles and Shiffa for the ultimate pampering.

Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide

This deep-cleansing, foaming scrub from Quai, is like a trip to rehab for your scalp and skin. A weekly detox powered by gently exfoliating sugar crystals to cleanse and soften skin.

 

Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide
NVLA Amal Vegan Nail Polish
Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide
WILLOW’S BAY

 

Polish without fear?
After nearly three years of research and development, in-home celebrity manicurist Gina Alcedo announces her official launch of Nailvana LA(NVLA), a collection of vegan, cruelty- and 8-free polishes, cuticle oils, and creams.

 

Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide
BB Mineral -Infused Clarifying Mud Mask
Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide
BB African Black Soap Body and Face Scrub

Our entire office loves Brooklyn Botany a local brand that combines the wholeness of nature with the passion of emerging apothecaries, we make your next moment of Zen both effortless and affordable. There is something special about BB, it truly is the ultimate gift to give yourself.

 

 

Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide

We have chosen our favorite facial wipes C’est Moi. Their ingredients are thoughtfully sourced and utilized to help maintain healthy skin and our environment. It’s important to remember that an ingredient’s source does not always determine its safety, that is why all of our products are rated on the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Database.

Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide

 

Rituals home and body this holiday, a must-have for your office and or home this season. Lighten your mood with this energizing scented candle. Based on uplifting sweet orange and cedarwood and will put a smile on your face for up to 50 hours. Sweet Orange is our office’s fav!

 

Gift Guide

Going on a trip just toss in your suitcase this grouping of R+Co favorites. From cleanse to prep to style, this sets does it all. Packaged in a limited-edition, R+Co Mesh Pouch. Who can say no to this?

Look for our other 2019 gift guides to help you with your shopping!

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Downtown’s Holiday Gift Guide 2019 For Him

Downtown’s Holiday Gift Guide 2019

Categories
Business

Ode à la Rose co-founder Olivier Plusquellec on roses, Valentine’s Day & more

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For many people, flowers are only ordered for special occasions. In turn, many people do not think about where their flowers are coming from or what the long-term consequences of their purchase may be. In the case of Ode à la Rose — as based in Chelsea — all of its orders are delivered same-day in Manhattan, as arranged locally, and customers can see a photo of their order prior to delivery. In addition, Ode à la Rose orders are presented in an appealing, exclusive gift box.

Ode à la Rose was founded by Olivier Plusquellec and Louis Brunet less than a decade ago. Five years after starting as a local New York-centric service, Ode à la Rose has grown to a multi-million dollar company, now delivering to 12 states around the Northeastern United States. Not only does Ode à la Rose offer flowers, but it also allows customers to add on candles created Grasse, France — arguably the fragrance capital of the world — and boxes of macarons from the New York City-based Macaron Café.

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Downtown caught with Ode à la Rose co-founder Olivier Plusquellec for some Q&A. Beyond its website, www.odealarose.com, Ode à la Rose also stays active on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Google+. Olivier himself is also on Twitter.

Do you have a favorite offering of Ode à la Rose?

Olivier Plusquellec: I love our peony bouquets. Peonies are not available all year round…which is probably what makes me love them all the more. They’re perfect to decorate and brighten up any room and transform your home into a picture perfect pad in no time.

For someone seeking a Valentine’s Day gift for a partner or loved one, what would you recommend they pick up?

OP: Red roses are a Valentine’s Day classic for a reason. You can’t go wrong with a dozen — or one hundred! — red roses. Pink is also quite popular, and purple is a fun, unique color to switch things up with.

How about for a friend or a co-worker?

OP: If you still want to send roses, but without romantic intentions, yellow is a perfect choice. A mix of flowers tends to be more friendly as well, such as our Wildflowers & Roses bouquet. Nothing too big or crazy, or they may get the wrong impression!

Valentine’s Day aside, what are the key times of year for your business?

OP: Mother’s Day is the second most popular holiday for us. In terms of seasons, spring and autumn tend to be the busiest.

I understand that Ode à la Rose now delivers in 12 states. Does that mean that your flowers are sourced from all over the place?

OP: Although we deliver all throughout the Northeast, every arrangement is made in our New York City workshop, located in the heart of the Chelsea flower district. We make everything to order, and then ship the bouquets overnight in our travel containers filled with water to keep the flowers fresh.

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Is the goal to be able to ship to all 50 states? To grow in another way?

OP: Yes. In 2017, we’ll be opening up a floral workshop on the West Coast with a similar set up as the one we currently have in New York City. Our goal is to have workshops in several strategic locations in the U.S. within the next five years to be able to deliver our bouquets to all 50 states.

Before starting up Ode à la Rose, what did you do for a living?

OP: We both worked in investment banking and made the leap to entrepreneurship about five years ago.

Have you always had a passion for roses?

OP: I’ve always enjoyed flowers especially to decorate my home. However, my passion for roses and for the art of floral design really started and grew with this venture.

Is there something you wish more people knew about your company?

OP: We offer a couple of features that enhance the flower delivery experience. For example, we send a photo of the actual arrangement that was made to the sender to guarantee that what our customers see on our website is what their loved one receives. We also offer our clients the option — free of charge — to upload their favorite photo during the check-out process which we print on glossy paper and add to the bouquet delivery.

When not busy with Ode à la Rose, how do you like to spend your free time?

OP: I like to spend most of my free time with my daughters, Rose and Madeleine. I don’t see them much during the week, so I try to make it up to them on the weekends, which leaves me with very little time to do anything else.

Do you have a favorite restaurant in New York?

OP: There are so many great restaurants in New York City, but Casa Apicii in Greenwich Village is currently my go-to place. The food there is absolutely off the charts, and the decor is beautiful.

Categories
Business Dining Featured

Sterling McDavid chats about the Starling Project’s Candles, UNICEF, Hunt & Fish Club, and plenty more

Sterling McDavid
Sterling McDavid

An entrepreneur that is focused on social good, Sterling McDavid is the CEO and Founder of The Starling Project, a charitable home product line that helps provide solar energy to rural communities in need around the world. She is also the Chair of National Development on UNICEF’s Next Generation Steering Committee and an active member of the MD Anderson Cancer Center Junior Board. And as if those activities were not enough, the former Goldman Sachs staffer is also the CEO and Founder of the real estate development firm Sterling McDavid LLC and one of the owners of the New York restaurants Hunt & Fish Club and Rogue & Canon.

In support of the release of The Starling Project’s recent Candle Collection — the non-profit has already raised over $100,000 for UNICEF since forming in December 2015 — Downtown caught up with Sterling for some Q&A. More info on The Starling Project can be found at www.StarlingProject.org, while Sterling herself is on Instagram as @SterlingMcDavid.

Vanilla Hemlock & Juniper Saffron

Your name is Sterling, yet your company is The Starling Project. Why the difference in naming? Do people ever get confused?

Sterling McDavid: It’s funny because we definitely knew we would get this question when we named the company “Starling” rather than “Sterling.” The truth is we wanted to get asked this question! We loved that “Starling” was a play on my name, but most importantly, we loved the meaning bigger behind Starling.

A Starling is a bird that is absolutely stunning, but Starlings have a unique pulsating dance they do when they come together. Thousands of them will gather, rise and spin in the sky, and together they are even more beautiful than they are individually. The name “Starling” represents the transformative power and energy each of us has when we come together. Each person that purchases a candle is contributing to a community that is making an impact on another community, and although we are all powerful on our own, we are much more powerful when we come together to give back.

Where did the idea for The Starling Project come from?

SM: After going to Vietnam with UNICEF in June 2013, I knew from what I had seen in poverty stricken areas of Vietnam that I needed to change my career. Immediately upon returning to New York, I informed my team at Goldman Sachs that I would be leaving. At the time, I did not knew exactly what I would do, but I knew I wanted to start a social good company that gives back.

Given that I am originally from Texas, where energy is a topic of conversation constantly, and that I had been exposed to some energy-efficient solutions to problems in Vietnam, I thought that it was likely I would focus my efforts on clean energy solutions, but I didn’t know in what way. When I left Goldman, I ultimately decided to go back to school to study interior architecture and design at Parsons School of Design. I ended up taking a job in Paris with the wonderful architecture firm Projectiles where my focus was building a spa resort. We thought of every detail imaginable for the resort including what fragrance would fill it.

It was during the research for this project that I came up with the idea to do a candle line. It was perfect! Candles give off light and light goes hand in hand with solar energy. When I shared the news with the UNICEF team, they loved it. From there I spent time narrowing down UNICEF projects to give to, and then The Starling Project was officially born.

Sterling McDavid / Photo: Camille Colin Photographe
Sterling McDavid / Photo: Camille Colin Photographe

What makes these candles different from other candles? For example, are the contents sourced from fair trade providers etc.?

SM: Starling candles are unique because we source the glass, wax and cotton wick from U.S. businesses. It was really important to me to source from the United States to support American business. We also make sure that the natural essential oils we source are free from human trafficking. Additionally, the candles are unique because of the combinations of fragrances. We purposely try to combine scents that aren’t typically thought of together to create something that is not only original, but that also really is a new experience for ones sense of smell.

How did you decide to partner with UNICEF?

SM: UNICEF is my passion so the decision was easy for me. I am Chair of National Development on UNICEF’s Next Generation Steering Committee. I have been a junior board member for over five years now, and after visiting Vietnam with UNICEF for the first time, it became clear to me that it is one of the most amazing organizations in the world. UNICEF is saving children’s lives every day and they are innovative and thoughtful about how they do it and that really impressed me. I knew after my first field visit to Vietnam that I would have a life-long relationship with the organization.

What’s ahead for The Starling Project besides the new fall candle scents?

SM: We are working on various surprise collaborations for the holidays that we are excited about and we are also focusing on creating even more candle scents to add to our collection. It seems like we are mixing new combinations every day, but not every scent is a winner, so we definitely take our time to create the perfect combinations.

Aside from your charity work, you are known to be a co-owner of Hunt & Fish Club. What’s coming up for that establishment?

SM: Hunt & Fish Club has been such a wonderful project! There really is not a more beautiful and well-run restaurant in New York City, in my opinion. We are constantly working to keep things exciting and we have an incredible staff that really takes it all to a whole other level. At this point, we are really striving every day to make it better than the day before and I am proud to say the restaurant is always filled with guests like Demi Levato and the Kardashians.

Hunt & Fish Club
Hunt & Fish Club

Do you have other projects that you are involved with besides The Starling Project and Hunt & Fish Club?

SM: I do! I am an interior architect and designer. Currently, I am working on building a house in Aspen, Colorado. I have been working on it for 2.5 years, but am thrilled to say it will be complete this December!

What do you like to do in your free time when not working?

SM: I practice yoga nearly every day and am often caught hiking or in a Barry’s Bootcamp class. I also love art and architecture, so you may catch me at a museum or art show!

Having lived all over the world, what is it that keeps you a New Yorker?

SM: It’s funny because I was born and raised in Texas, but I truly have always been a New Yorker! I spent my childhood hopping between New York and Texas, and told my parents from the time I was eight years old that I was going to move to New York as soon as I could. I did exactly that! It is the fast pace, diversity, innovation and excitement that keep me a New Yorker. And, of course, the food! I truly couldn’t live without the variety of options at this point!

Do you have a favorite restaurant in New York?

SM: Other than Hunt & Fish Club, I would have to say it is a tie between Locanda Verde and Osteria Morini! I am a big fan of Italian food and I think there are few chefs who can do it better than Andrew Carmellini and Michael White.

Finally, Sterling, any last words for the kids?

SM: Go out everyday with the goal to be kind and loving to anyone you cross paths with! People always ask me how they can make an impact without having to contribute a large amount financially. I really believe every kind act is crucial to making this world a better place for everyone. Of course, you can also buy a Starling candle to give back as well. (laughs)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=drLych8zvjA

Categories
Living Uncategorized

Surviving the Snow

Surviving the Snow
Photo: Courtesy of Neowin.com

 

Most of us New Yorkers don’t expect wintry mixes to last beyond the holidays and tend to underestimate the severity of storms. With an iconic blizzard in the making, it’s important to dress correctly and prepare accordingly, because surviving the snow is the hardest part. Blizzard-like conditions affect what we wear, what we eat, and how we get around, especially in Manhattan. DOWNTOWN has many helpful hints when it comes to getting through days like these. We hope this will help you stay warm, well-fed, and safe!

Staying warm and fashionable can be a difficult combination to achieve. Luckily, many brands offer gear that will help you make a statement on snow-covered streets. The most important of winter gear is a winter jacket. Short jackets may seem trendy, but having one that reaches your knees or ankles will make all the difference.  Jackets with more coverage also tend to be waterproof, windproof, and contain a hood. Popular brands include Zara, Canadian Goose, North Face, and Woolrich. So, if your jacket doesn’t include any of these ammenities, I would run out and buy on while you can, you will not be disappointed!

Luckily, a long, puffy coat is easy to accessorize. Uniqlo offers Heat Tech Everything! Their heated leggings and long sleeved shirts are thin enough to fit beautifully under jeans or dress pants. Worried about taking of your gloves off to text or check directions? Luckily, tech-friendly gloves exist! These gloves allow for you to access the touch screen on your phone, without exposing your hands to the cold. Winter hats, ear warmers and wool infinity scarves allows for complete coverage, while still look presentable as you comb the snowy city. Don’t forget your feet, head-to-toe-warmth is key! Regular leather booties aren’t going to cut it in this weather, so resort to boots that are both waterproof and warm. Hunter Wellington boots allow for great grip, no leaks, and warm fleece boot-liners for extra cold days.

Now that you’re dressed to perfection, make sure you are prepared for the blizzard itself. Stay warm with a reliable heat source, stock up on food and water, have backup lighting, and don’t forget to make the best of it! This is the perfect time to finish the book you started in the summer, get paperwork done without any interruptions, organize your closet, or try out the recipes on Pinterest you have been meaning to try for months.

To make a snow day even more enjoyable, make sure you’re technologically prepared, especially if you anticipate losing power. Make sure your electronics are charged, for the sake of both entertainment and communication purposes. Now is the time to go out to the store to purchase a phone charging battery stick and candles galore, because these will become your light, communication, and internet sources. Have logins to HBO Go, Hulu Plus and Netflix as ready as the endless layers of sweaters and blankets. Most importantly, have someone. Whether it is a family member, pet, best friend, or significant other, you don’t want to experience cabin fever. What better way to get snowed in than with people you love? Body heat and good company are the necessities during a blizzard.

-by Deirdre McAndrew

 

Surviving the Snow
Photo: Courtesy of huffingtonpost.ca