Tag: flowers

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

Post author By Downtown Magazine
Post date February 2, 2021

2021 Downtown's Valentines Day Gift Guide its all about Pampering — Pexels Cottonbro

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”

36pc Ganache Blue Box $97.00

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

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.

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.

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.

PRACTICE SHORT – GREY $80.00

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)

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

Love Hat Box Gift Assortment $83

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.

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.

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 VALENTINE’S DAY VARIETY PACK includes six chocolate bars, Bling, Vixen, Nakid, Flirt, Hottie, and Smooch.

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

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

Lifestyle Outdoor

How to Keep Your Garden in Tip Top Shape

Post author By Downtown Magazine
Post date December 28, 2019

Spring Cleaning

Even if it’s not spring, the first step to a great looking garden is getting rid of any debris that has accumulated in the area. If you have trees, falling leaves can be a problem in the fall. Use a leaf blower to clear the space or a rake to gather the leaves in one place before placing them in a compost pile. It is also a good idea to pull out any pesky weeds. Be sure not to place these in your compost, however, as the seeds are likely to regrow if you do so.

Prepare the Soil for Planting

New flowers, shrubs, climber and trees can make a huge difference to the landscape of your garden. To prepare the soil for planting, till it between eight and twelve inches deep. Be sure to remove any large rocks. This is a good point at which you can add some fertilizer into the mix. Be careful not to over-fertilize, however, as this can burn the roots, making your plants more sensitive to drought, heat, and cold. For the best results, it is a good idea to have your soil tested for nutrients and pH levels.

Select the Right Plants

If you want to avoid future problems, opt for disease-resistant plants. Talk to other gardeners or nursery employees to find out what the most resilient plant types are. In addition, take a good look at the plants you are buying to ensure that you don’t introduce any diseases in your garden. Healthy plants should be free of rotted stems, spots and insects. Don’t forget to also examine the roots—these should be white and firm. If you are not sure what a healthy plant should look like, google it before you head off to the store. Some gardening enthusiasts claim that plants put in the ground after the sun goes down have a better growth rate and are more resilient.

Tags Compost, Earth, FERTILIZER, flowers, garden, GARDEN PARTY, Gardening, INSECTS, LANDSCAPE, LEAF, LEAF BLOWER, natural, NURSERY, PLANT, PLANTING, ROCKS, SOIL

Bars Dining Events Featured

Hendrick’s Gin is Hosting a Midsummer Solstice Pop-Up Near Grand Central

Post author By Sarah Strong
Post date May 29, 2019

To celebrate the newly launched limited edition Midsummer Solstice Gin, Hendrick’s is bringing vibrant live flower installations to the masses. From Wednesday, June 5^th – Friday, June 7^th, Hendrick’s Midsummer Solstice will come to life on a grand scale when beautifully colorful botanical displays bloom in NYC at Pershing Square near Grand Central Terminal. Passersby can welcome Midsummer with a stroll through these larger-than-life arrangements, on display for a limited time, just like the gin they represent. Come sip Hendrick’s Midsummer Solstice cocktails while visiting with delightfully odd and unusual characters guiding you through bouquet stations to take home, interactive cocktail making with DIY garnishes, and Instagram opportunities galore! To support this enchanting excitement, Hendrick’s has also partnered with sustainable flower delivery service, BloomsyBox, to offer beautiful custom bouquets ready to order inspired by Midsummer Solstice.

On-site activities include bouquet stations created in partnership with BloomsyBox where guests can create micro arrangements inspired by Midsummer Solstice to take home, plus interactive cocktail making with DIY garnishes. The installations will be live between Wednesday, June 5^th – Friday, June 7^th with complimentary Hendrick’s cocktails available between 3:00 – 7:00 PM daily with valid ID and proof of legal drinking age for entry. Interested imbibers must RSVP to visit the Midsummer Solstice pop-up location in Pershing Square via Eventbrite here.

Both the Midsummer Solstice Gin and Hendrick’s Midsummer Bouquet through BloomsyBox are available for a limited time only. The bouquet was inspired by the Language of Flowers popularized in the Victorian Era, each selected flower in the bouquet has a meaning and is used to send thoughtful messages to the intended recipient. One might find stems in the bouquet like purple hydrangea, dark pink tinted limonium, eryngium, eucalipto, and other beautiful, finely scented blooms – inspired by the secret floral blend of Hendrick’s Master Distiller Lesley Gracie’s creation from her Cabinet of Curiosities.

Midsummer Solstice was inspired by the actual Summer Solstice, at which time the Earth is tilted maximally toward the sun, impelling all the flora of the hemisphere to attain its peak aromatic prowess. The aromatic notes of the gin include zesty juniper along with hidden undertones of orange blossom and exotic ripeness. This bright take on the rounded Hendrick’s house style complements the gin’s floral character for a liquid that’s splendid in all manner of spring and summer cocktails, from a seasonal Midsummer Spritz with elderflower liqueur, soda, lemon, and a cucumber garnish, to a Midsummer Mimosa or a Salty Dog, bursting with floral and grapefruit flavors. The signature Hendrick’s apothecary style bottle remains with the new Midsummer expression, but has received a purple-hued makeover, from the glass of the bottle itself to the label and logo.

Tags bloomsybox, cocktails, event, flowers, gin, Grand central, hendrick's, Hendrick's Gin, midsummer solstice, pop up

Featured Living

Your Valentine’s Day Gift Guide is Here

Post author By Sarah Strong
Post date January 31, 2019

Friendly reminder: it’s February, which means Valentine’s Day is the next thing you can’t forget to buy a gift for. But don’t fret, we’ve got you covered with presents for everyone from your best friend to your significant other. Read on for Downtown’s favorite gifts this season!

Lord Jones High CBD Gumdrops

What’s more on trend that CBD gummies? These are the finest you can buy, with 20 mg per gumdrop and no artificial colors or flavors. This limited edition box features passion fruit and raspberry confections and is only available until February 14th. Snatch one up for your friend with pre-date jitters and another for yourself!

Bouquet Bar

Let Bouquet Bar take all the guessing out of gift giving for you this Valentine’s Day. Their boxes include everything from flowers to chocolate to bath bombs, and they have ten holiday options for both the men and women in your life. The signature “Love Box” (pictured above) contains a mini-bouquet of red spray roses, lavender dark chocolate drops, sugar coated gummy hearts, caramel corn, gummy bears and a lavender scented candle. Plus, they’ve got free shipping and next-day delivery for all you procrastinators.

Fine & Raw Chocolate

Keep your box of chocolates local this year with Brooklyn-made truffles from Fine & Raw. They are made with sustainable ingredients from around the world and come in flavors like sea salt, orange and hazelnut. For even more fun you can visit their factory in Bushwick to see how your gift is made!

Couples’ Classes at the Institute for Culinary Education

If you’re looking for something hands on head to ICE, located in Brookfield Place, for some special VDay classes. Learn how to make French macarons or sear the perfect steak. If you don’t want to work so hard for your dinner sign up for the Champagne Gala, where you’ll sip on bubbles while learning about the history of sparkling wine and enjoying classic dish pairings. ICE offers couples classes through their recreational program all year long, so be sure to check out their other classes like homemade pizza and pasta.

Ettitude’s Love Bundles

The quickest way to end up in bed with someone is to gift them sleepwear! Ettitude, the luxury sleepwear and bedding brand that uses 100% organic bamboo lyocell fabric, has two bundles sure to have you jumping for joy. The Eye Love You Bundle includes two adorable, special edition sleep masks for you and your love, and the Big Love Bundle adds two cozy robes to the mix.

Murray’s Cheese

That’s right, we’re giving you permission to gift someone bacon for Valentine’s Day! Murray’s Cheese has tons of great boxes and baskets for everyone in your life, but we can’t get over the Bacon Me Crazy, which features three types of bacon adding up to 2.5 lbs of meat! Other favorites include the luxurious Burrata Lover’s Collection, the Champagne Lover’s Collection, which does almost all the work for you, and the Cheese Tower for Two that encourages you to skip right to the cheese plate.

Bokksu

Book a trip to Japan, for your tastebuds! Bokksu will send you a collection of Japanese snacks along with a tasting and culture guide to introduce you to the culinary delicacies of the Land of the Rising Sun. February’s Love Story Bokksu is filled with red, pink and heart shaped snacks to help you cuddle up and stay warm during the cold month. Bokksu and its CEO Danny Taing promote cultural sustainability by seeking out traditional, artisanal snack makers throughout Japan to use in Bokksu all year round.

Sprinkles Cupcakes

Whether your celebrating Valentine’s Day or Galentine’s Day, everyone in your life deserves something sweet! Head to a Sprinkles location for limited edition flavors such as Raspberry Chocolate Chip and Stuffed French Toast or pick up a BE MINE or mini I <3 U box set.

Moët & Chandon Impérial Rosé Living Ties

This limited edition, non-vintage rosé is what we’ll be sipping on no matter what we’re doing this Valentine’s Day. The beautiful pink bottles can be purchased in a celebratory gift box, in a full sleeved bottle, or as a mini Moët. This bubbly is sure to make your night a memorable one!

Ambrella x Spiritual Gangster UR ALL U NEED Apparel

Philadelphia and LA-based street artist Ambrella and activewear brand Spiritual Gangster have partnered up to remind us all to love ourselves first. The collection includes a muscle tank, t-shirt and hoodie featuring Ambrella’s artwork.

Petrossian x Luke’s Lobster Caviar Lobster Roll Kit

After the success of their in-store caviar lobster rolls, Petrossian and Luke’s Lobster teamed up for this extra special Valentine’s Day kit. Each package includes half a pound of lobster meat (enough for two lobster rolls), 50 grams of classic Baika caviar, 6 pieces of Petrossian fudge, 2 serving spoons, and a gift box. Why go out for this decadent meal when you can enjoy it in your pajamas at home?

Business

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

Post author By Downtown Magazine
Post date January 24, 2017

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.

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.

Uncategorized

Vendome Beaute CEO Alexandra Whitcombe on running a successful, quality-oriented beauty company

Post author By Downtown Magazine
Post date December 21, 2016

Alexandra Whitcombe is the creator and visionary behind Vendome Beaute. A New York City native, modeling and ballet were her among her early passions as she attended the prestigious High School Of Art & Design. Years in the floral industry taught Alexandra the essence of nature and its inextricable connection to beauty. Vendome Beaute is the product of Alexandra’s background, her worldliness, and her scientific awareness. She personally sources materials from the highest-quality local vendors in Switzerland, France and Italy to create a cosmetics line that is technologically-engineered to make women look and feel beautiful.

Downtown caught up with Alexandra for some Q&A to learn about what it is like to run a successful yet growing beauty company. Prior to running Vendome, Alexandra was known as “The Rose Queen” as the owner of the Chelsea-based Trellis Fine Florals. Alexandra is on Twitter as @AlixAstir, while Vendome can be followed on Twitter via @VendomeDeParis. Vendome products can be purchased via its website: www.vendomebeautefrance.com.

You were born and raised in New York. What is it that keeps you here all these years later?

Alexandra Whitcombe: I am a true New Yorker, and loyal to my hometown. Not to mention that everything I need is right here! Although my heart belongs to New York City, I’ve been afflicted with a bit of wanderlust most of my life, and strayed a few times. I love to travel and have lived abroad. But like Dorothy in The Wizard Of Oz, one day you wake up and you realize you have everything you ever wanted right under your nose the whole time, and you go through a renewed and deep appreciation of your hometown. I absolutely adore New York City and don’t see myself living anywhere else. I am addicted to the excitement and vibrant cultural and art world. New York is my home.

Vendome Beaute is a New York-based company. Given how expensive it can be to do business in New York, did you ever think of basing the company elsewhere?

AW: No, it has never entered my mind to do business elsewhere. We do have a base and office in Rennes, France. We are definitely a Franco-American Company! However, I always knew the central nervous system of the company would be in New York. Although New York City is expensive, I believe New York affords us a level of prestige and respect not found elsewhere. There are also unique resources and opportunities that are available by having a New York City headquarters.

Some of your products are sourced in Europe. What happens in the New York office of Vendome?

AW: Our New York office is the creative force behind the brand. The atmosphere in the office is fun; we are constantly laughing and having a good time as we work. My personal philosophy is if it’s not fun, don’t do it. I’ll stop doing this if it ever stops being fun. For now, all of our products are from Europe, and have a deep French influence. Today, 98% of our collection is curated and made in France. The New York office serves as the idea machine, where we generate the creative concepts that become the products.

What inspired you to launch Vendome?

AW: Prior to launching Vendome, I owned a floral business, which was the catalyst for Vendome. I wanted to create a beauty brand that used color and botanicals to offer women something new in cosmetics. The use of botanicals in skincare was common, but makeup didn’t incorporate florals. I realized that the beautiful aromas and essential oils from the flowers could be infused into makeup as well. I worked with a lab to help develop my recipes, and soon Vendome Beaute was born. The name “Vendome” came from the place where my French husband proposed to me on New Year’s Eve, so the company is influenced by the happiness and emotions of that magical night.

Is there a Vendome product that you are most proud of?

AW: Right now I am in love with my three well palettes. We created eight unique palettes of highly-pigmented, lush, long-lasting colors in charming, collectable boxes. Each of the eight palette boxes are designed with an image reflecting a different moment in a Vendome Girl’s life. The packaging evokes a modern take on the classic French scenes we have come to adore. I dare you not to fall in love with them!

What is coming up for Vendome? New product lines? Collaborations?

AW: It’s a very exciting time for us. Our line of 28 lip colors will be here for Spring 2017, as well as a gel-based foundations infused with fragrant and hydrating rose water. Additionally, our plumping concealer pen will be launched Summer of 2017. I am constantly sourcing new ingredients and designing products, and hope to have even more new products in the near future.

What do you think makes Vendome so different from other beauty-oriented companies?

AW: In my opinion, we are very different in our look and approach. Vendome Beaute is full of charm, whimsy, and humor. We are a lifestyle, a way of being in the world.

Has your experiences from owning Trellis Fine Florals help with Vendome? Or are flowers and beauty products entirely different fields?

AW: No, they cross over. Make up and beauty relies on biology, flowers, herbs and fauna as ingredients. From the time of the ancient Egyptians grinding down lapis lazuli to modern times, women have been continually searching for ways to make themselves feel better and look better. I decided to create Vendome Beaute because I had a vision of a brand that incorporated the science of flowers into color.

I know that you attended the High School of Art and Design. Did you always know that you would be working within fashion and beauty? There was no Plan B?

AW: No, not at all. I was a writer and I always thought I’d be the author of the next great American Classic. Right now I am working on a beauty book for Vendome Beaute. It’s a beautiful workbook for all of the #MissVedomes out there that can’t get enough of our brand and really take the lifestyle to heart and really want to understand our philosophy. The book will feature gorgeous art, snippets of advice, wisdom, anecdotes, and history and how our products are best used.

Is there something you haven’t yet accomplished but still hope to at some point?

AW: Within the next two years we looking to launch our skincare line and first Eau de Toilette.

When not busy with work, how do you like to spend your free time?

AW: Sailing and skiing are two of my passions. I have been sailing since the age of eight. If I am not sailing/racing; I am skiing. If I’m not doing either of those, I really love to keep tabs on the art and antique scene in Manhattan. I’m addicted to collecting Georgian, Regency and Biedermeier Antiques. I never know when and where inspiration will strike for Vendome Beaute, I once created packaging based off of an embroidered silk work from the 1700s. Our lip balm was created when I had chapped lips while skiing in Chamonix.

Are there any upcoming events that you have tickets to? Concerts? Places in New York you plan on going during the holiday season?

AW: I just saw the Danish singer MØ at Terminal 5. She was amazing. Her music is sublime. She’s a true artist. She is unique, refreshing and different. I really respect and appreciate that with artists.

Do you have a favorite restaurant in New York?

AW: Eating out is one of my favorite past times. I will never turn away good food! And, NYC has plenty of that. I love Greek food and so Kellari Tavern on 44th Street has amazing Greek food. And they treat you like long-lost family when you go in, which I am; my mother’s name is Papadopoulos. And I also love Philippe on 60th.

Finally, Alexandra, any last words for the kids?

AW: A lot of people throw around the word “entrepreneur like” it is a job title, but starting your own company is very different for starting a new job. I didn’t set out to become an “entrepreneur.” I had an idea and it turned into this amazing journey where Vendome Beaute became a beauty brand. There was more work involved than I ever imagined, and there were times when I thought I’d never reach my goals. What got me through it, and kept me going, was the incredible people who helped me along the way. Many simply business associates who went out of their way to give extra guidance and support. These people were New Yorkers. We often get a bad rap, but honestly, there isn’t a more supportive place to start a business.