The first Shop-O-Matic tweet-up hosted by Chima and FG Salon & Spa was held on Wednesday evening. We so enjoyed meeting those of you who were there, thanks for coming out. If you didn't make it, you missed a fun night. Our hosts treated guests to a fabulous party and lots of free treats.

Thanks to the folks at FG Salon for staying late to make sure each guest got their treatments. We were getting hot parafin treatments, make-up demos and chair massages until the wee hours. The mini massages were in the courtyard under the stars. It was every woman's dream girls night out and more.

> Discuss this entry

If you're an old soul and love all things vintage from the 1930's through 1970's, don't miss out on the Vintage Show and Sale this weekend.

There will be jewelry, clothes, handbags, furniture and more from those eras. And there will be exhibits, fashion shows, lectures and book signings.

Those authors include Anne Gilbert, "Antiques Detective": Designs & Memorabilia 40s & 50s and Designs; Memorabilia 60s & 70s; Carole Tanenbaum, Fabulous Fakes: A Passion for Vintage -100 years of Costume Jewelry and Judith Gura, Sourcebook of Scandinavian Furniture: Designs for the 21st Century and New York Interior Design, 1935-1985.

It's happening Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 21-22, at the Palm Beach Convention Center, 650 Okeechobee Blvd., in West Palm Beach.

For more information about the show and lectures call 561-483-4047 or visit the website.

> Discuss this entry

This Saturday, Nov. 14th, from 4 to 7pm, 7 For All Mankind at Aventura Mall invites customers to view the new Holiday 2009 collection.

Guests can enjoy cocktails, small bites and music by a local DJ Faux Real. While shoppers enjoy the music and the Holiday Collection, they can also catch a sneak peek of exclusive artwork created by local NADA (The New Art Dealers Alliance) artist Bhakti Baxter.

Shoppers attending the event will receive 40% off purchases for the evening! (There are a few items excluded.) No admission fee required. For additional info, please call the store at 305.932.2297.

7 For All Mankind jeans are super expensive...reminds me of the day I decided that every woman should have one GREAT pair of jeans, some that she can wear out, with that perfect fit. I set a few hours aside, and tried on jeans at Saks, Bloomies, Neimans, all the high end brands. I told myself this was going to be splurge, but a treat.

Long story short, all the $100+ jeans were the hyper-lo-rise models, the zippers were about an inch long. Very uncomfortable, not to mention unattractive on a woman over, what, 21? I gave up on the designer jeans...wound up at the Gap.

Tell us about your favorite jeans. Is there a brand you love? Why?

> Discuss this entry

Mona's Kids and Debbie's Dream have teamed up to help find a cure for stomach cancer! Some of the many things you’ll find at Mona's are: trend-setting clothes and jewelry, adorable infant-wear, hair bows, and more.

From Saturday, October 17th thru Saturday October 24th, customers who mention Debbie's Dream will receive 10% off their entire purchase; in addition, Mona's will donate 10% of sales to this charity that seeks to aggressively find and fund a cure for stomach cancer, which currently has relatively few treatment options.

Mona's is located at 2810 University Drive in Coral Springs, in the shopping center across from Barnes and Noble, between Starbucks and TooJays. There is a second location in Plantation at 220 University Drive, across from the Broward Mall.

About Debbie’s Dream Foundation: In April 2008, Debra Zelman, a 40 year old mother of three, was diagnosed with Stage IV, advanced, incurable stomach cancer. While at the same time dealing with her own medical condition and the challenges presented by chemotherapy, Debbie founded Debbie’s Dream Foundation, Inc. which seeks as its ultimate goal to make the cure for stomach cancer a reality.

> Discuss this entry

They line up like soldiers with laminated sheets showing pictures of the latest Coach, Prada and Louis Vuitton designer handbags.

And they whisper the popular designer names as you stroll on by Chinatown's famed Canal Street in New York City. In fact, sellers' pitches come at rapid fire speed and are echoed dozens of times in a span of a block or two. Sometimes they take you into backrooms for the goods.

Women can't help but check out those famous knock-offs. I know I can't. In fact I took home three "designer" purses from my last trip there.

Last week, Coach sued Target for carrying a fake version of its logo-print handbag and now seeks $1 million in compensation. Oops!

Here's a photo of me during the haggling frenzy that ensued during my handbag hunt. It was all a blur, I swear.

Do you have any great steals you found, real good looking fakes or just any local outlets where you find great knock-offs? Do share!

-- Erika "Frugal Fashionista" Pesantes

> Discuss this entry

You can see the ad on this Web site: 40 percent off permanently reduced merchandise at Dillard's stores and online.

But the proof is in the product and how big the sale. So I did a run through Dillards for some potential deals. Here's what I found:

Guess Crystal logo sunglasses, regularly $65, on sale for $19.50. My kind of price for shades!

BCBGirls "Ariel" open-toe patent pumps, in red or black, regularly $89, now $35.77. Very sexy.

NightAway ruffle party dress, in red, regularly $99, now $35.54. Super cute!

You have to search, but the booty is there. The sale on some items is only until Saturday, Aug. 1, so get shopping! -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

> Discuss this entry

The Gardens mall on PGA Blvd in Palm Beach Gardens is hosting 'The Start of Something Beautiful' wedding show on Sunday July 26th from noon to 6 p.m.

It's been a long time since I was a bride, but this show sounds like great fun and not for wedding planners only. There will be luxurious china tabletop displays from Williams Sonoma and Pottery Barn, bridal exhibits from Bloomingdale's showcasing its registry, Lilly Pulitzer displaying gift ideas, and Godiva showing off its delectible flavors.

Fabulous makeovers: Bloomingdales, Saks Fifth Avenue, Aveda and Sephora will be set up in the Grand Court throughout the show. Don't forget to sample food and drinks offered by Brio Tuscan Grille, PF Chang's and Publix Greenwise, who will provide specialty bridal cake sampling from 2pm-4pm.

Several retailers will provide informal modeling from 2pm-4pm, including Eileen Fisher, Tommy Bahama, Lilly Pulitzer, Cole Haan, Stuart Weitzman, Marmi, Jessica McClintock, Swarovski, Cache Lux and White House Black Market.

And while you're there, don't forget to get a raffle ticket for great prizes from all participating retailers. The grand prize will be a weekend stay and spa treatment at the Brazilian Court in Palm Beach - winners need not be present to win. --Super Saver Kathy

> Discuss this entry

The Frugal Florist will be giving a presentation on making frugal flower arrangements at 2 p.m. Saturday (July 18) at Field of Flowers in Davie. To save money, you'll have to spend: $25 for the event. Seating is limited, so call ahead to reserve a space: 800-96-FRESH.

John Klingel, director of the South Florida Center for Floral Studies in West Palm Beach
gel, is the author of The Frugal Florist: Do-it-Yourself Flowers on a Budget.

Budget brides should check out his Web site, Frugal Florist, which gives tips on affordable bridal arrangements.

At the event, Klingel will demonstrate different ways to create bouquets, centerpieces and aisle trimming for the big day.

Field of Flowers' Davie store is at 5101 South University Drive, 2.5 Miles south of I-595, between Griffin and Stirling Road.

Even if you don't go to the event, Field of Flowers is worth a visit -- absolutely gorgeous! -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

> Discuss this entry

Have you tried making your own jewelry? If you do, or have considered it, you might want to stop by the Intergalactic Bead and Jewelry Show this weekend at the Civic Center in Pompano. It's Saturday June 27th and Sunday the 28th 10-5.

I thought I'd like making jewelry...I bought some beads and tools a few years ago, and they are all still in the bags they came home in. When you learn how to make time and space, count me in!

Click here for more information, directions, and $1 off admission coupon.

> Discuss this entry

One of my favorite furniture and home accessory websites is Ballard Designs.

This month they are featuring rooms designed by James Swan, using Ballard's furniture and accessories. There is something about the living room that appeals......it's so zen and symmetrical.

I am inspired to go home and finish decluttering my house. I am not suggesting you buy anything from Ballard, I'm just sharing this living room design to inspire you too, if you need it.

Don't you just want to sit on that couch with your newspaper and coffee, and put your feet up?

> Discuss this entry

Borders is celebrating the release of the long awaited Twilight DVD with a Midnight Twilight Release Party.

Party starts at 10pm. Friday, March 20th, at your local Borders store. The DVD will be released at the stroke of midnight to those who pre-ordered, or who get a wristband at the party.

Have you read the book...seen the movie? My Atlanta daughter tells me she almost missed her tennis clinic because she was glued to it, couldn't put it down. I'll get to it someday! I work the midnight shift at the paper, it sort of cramps my style...I feel guilty reading (for fun) in the daytime.

Did you love the book? The movie? Let us hear from you....will you be going to the Borders party? Or another release party?

Borders party invitation

> Discuss this entry

Filene's is having a prom dress event on February 28th. Join the Filene's fan club for a 20% off one item coupon. Click here to join Filene's Basement Fan Club.

> Discuss this entry

Celebrity artist and world-renown sculptor, Tim Cotterill, a.k.a “The Frogman,” will make a personal appearance to meet and greet fans, sign autographs, and debut Plum Dandy – the latest limited edition frog exclusive to the Pavo Real Gallery at the Town Center Mall in Boca Raton.

He will also be on site to raffle off one of his special sculptures, with the proceeds from the raffle benefiting R.O.C.K Camp. R.O.C.K Camp is a program that sends local, cancer-afflicted children to a very special summer camp at the Boggy Creek Camp Facility in Eustis, Fla.

The event is open to the public, free of charge, and will take place Friday, February 20th from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday, February 21st from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

> Discuss this entry

It's that time of year, all you blushing brides.....ready to fight for that bargain wedding dress from the infamous Filene's Basement sale...coming to Aventura January 16th. The sale has come to be know as 'The Running of the Brides', a take off on Pamplona Spain's annual Running of the Bulls.

I'm not a bride, been there done that, but curiosity might get the best of me. I've never seen the bridal sale at Filene's. Have you? What's it like? A madhouse? Did anyone get their wedding dress there? Do tell.....

Click here for Filene's Bridal Sale Schedule

There's a real science to shopping the wedding dress sale at Filene's Basement. It's not for the timid.

Arrive early, expect a line. I'm not sure what it will be like in Aventura, because this is the first one, since the store is new. But these sales are famous, so I'd imagine brides will flock to it, new or not.

I've heard the racks empty within the first few minutes. Just take what you can, as much as you can, and sort it out later. The dresses are bulky, so try to recruit a friend to help.

Keep in mind you might be changing in the aisles, so dress accordingly. No holes in your granny panties, girls!

> Discuss this entry

When I heard that Miami-based Michele Barouh was going to make an appearance at Boca's Bloomingdale's my reaction was a big yawn.

Mea culpa. I shouldn't have let my subscription to W lapse. How can I be your fashion guide if I miss a watch designer whose designs are worn by celebs such as Jennifer Aniston and Paris Hilton?

Michele, namesake of Michele Watches and Creative Director for the brand, will be at Bloomie's today from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Fashion Accessories on Level 1. She will help you design your own Michele Watch and she'll sign your watch purchases during the event.

Bloomingdale’s Boca Raton is located at 5840 Glades Road in Town Center at Boca Raton.

Better hurry. She's there is a few minutes

XOXO-- Shopper Girl

> Discuss this entry

How about doing your Christmas shopping and having a portion of the proceeds benefit a good cause, Women in Distress!! Now that's the holiday spirit!!

I've mentioned Francesca Guerrera in this blog before, she's my very glam make up artist friend, who will be doing make up there. Too bad she doesn't have more of an influence on me.....it's a good day when I remember to put on lipstick.

Someone will be there buying your old gold. There'll be lots of shopping, and a bounce house for the kids.

The address is 1153 S. Andrews Avenue, in the auditorium, from 11am - 5pm.

> Discuss this entry

Plaza 3000 on North Federal Highway, just south of Oakland Park Blvd, is kicking off the holiday season with its 'Night at the Plaza' Thursday Dec 4th from 5:30-8:30.

If you tried to shop during Christmas on Las Olas, then you probably didn't get any shopping done, but you had a great time. I had to work last night, and missed Christmas on Las Olas for the first time in over 20 years. I did do a quick walk through on a dinner break, just to get in the holiday spirit.

Plaza 3000 has its own holiday kick off....with music and refreshments. And you might even get some shopping in. Stop in Cactus Flower for some great Mariposa serving pieces, tell them Kathy sent you. I'm a big fan of Candy's good eye for buying great gift items. And one of the best frame shops in Ft Lauderdale is there, Outrageous Framing. The Las Olas shops, Flora Ottimer and Moda Mario have outlets there.

Have fun!! I'm working tomorrow night as well, so have a drink for me!!

> Discuss this entry

If you're foolish enough, like me, to head to frigid New York City on a winter holiday, at least visit the many holiday markets the city has to offer.

I went to the one at Union Square where I found painted cooper earrings by Bora from Greece for only $20 and a lovely silk-strewn necklace with a cascade of small gems for $47. You'll also find Christmas decor, unique leather goods and lots of fun gifts for children at the Holiday Market.

Similar markets can be found at Bryant Park, where you also can ice skate, Grand Central and Columbus Circle. So, wherever you land in the city, there is a holiday market to shop.

The markets feature booths from stores around Manhattan as well as the outreaches and independent vendors. While I wouldn't count on a return policy, I found the shopping experience more fun and interesting than the overcrowded department stores with faux sales (20 percent off and only $800!).

South Florida retailers might do well to copy this NYC idea. After all, our weather is much more conducive to outside shopping. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

> Discuss this entry

In my college days at UF, football season was the highlight of the year. The packed stadium was abuzz with energy, and a close game would keep us in our seats until the end of the very last play. The rush of all those students and fans exiting through the Swamp tunnel/gates created a bottleneck like I haven't seen again until Midnight Madness at Sawgrass Mills! Deja vu!!

I went alone, much to the chagrin of my family, the early birds who can't stay up past 10pm. Nice to know they care...but I never for one moment felt apprehensive in the well lighted parking lots, bustling with folks coming and going.

Once inside...it felt like every school in Broward County bused in their total student body and added them to the entire worldwide membership of the Shoppers Anonymous Organization. It was a feast for people-watchers, seeing the melting pot of South Florida, but not fun if you wanted to do some serious shopping. Every language was represented, and the only overloaded shopping carts I noticed were being pushed by non-English speaking shoppers

There was a line to get into the Coach store in the Colonnade, and long lines to check out at Ralph Lauren Polo in the Oasis. Radio Shack was letting shoppers in a few at a time, the rest were held outside by the metal barrier gates. I was warned to stay away from BrandsMart.

If you were too tired after the big meal to start shopping at midnight, don't worry, be happy, as the song says!! I found a few things, but the sales just weren't that great. I had to leave because if one more person ran over my heels with their stroller, I was going to lose it! (Yes, strollers, lots of them, at midnight. Maybe Sawgrass Mills should start offering parenting classes.)

What did you find?

> Discuss this entry

If you do your homework in advance the Black Friday sales will be even more amazing! Keep checking our blog for more promotions.

Here's a link to print a $10 off $25 coupon at Macy's. And a savings pass to use storewide. Print both from the link below.

Macy's coupons

> Discuss this entry

Been thinking about Black Friday, trying to decide what's my plan. I don't know about you, but 5am is not fun in my book. I'd rather pay double than get up at 4am!!

If I shop on Black Friday, it will be at Sawgrass Mills, or one of the other stores that will open at midnight on Thursday for the shopping frenzy. Right now I am buried in notes...trying to figure out what I might buy, and where I need to go to get it. I can't shop in that bedlam unless I'm organized.

A website that tries to make sense out of Black Friday for the consumer is BFAds.net. It has links for advertised sales, store hours, buying guides for laptops, televisions, GPS devices, and more. There are also message boards where you can post questions or past experiences and advice.

You can even register and work up a personal shopping list. And BFAds.net promises not to sell or share your email address. I'll bet they wind up with a lot of useful data though.

Where will you be on Black Friday?

We give you great shopping tops all year long! Bookmark us!

> Discuss this entry

Love giving? Love saving? Then stop by any Stein Mart on Wednesday, November 19, for a special one-day event that will benefit a great cause “and” your wallet!

Donate $5 or more to Dignity U Wear when you check out and receive 10% off your ENTIRE PURCHASE as part of Stein Mart’s special, “Love giving. Love saving.” fundraising event. That savings is on top of Stein Mart’s already discounted every day prices and sale items, so your total savings will really add up. It’s a great way to help others while saving money on some early holiday shopping.

No coupon needed—just let the cashier know you want to make a donation to Dignity U Wear and 10% will be taken off your entire purchase. The event is one day only—November 19—at all Stein Mart locations.

Dignity U Wear is a national nonprofit that provides brand new clothing to men, women and children in need. For more than five years, Stein Mart has supported Dignity U Wear, raising more than $2.3 million and helping to distribute more than 1.2 million pieces of clothing to DUW partner organizations.

Find out more about Dignity U Wear

> Discuss this entry

I love these events where you can go out with the girls, shop and have a heck of a good time.

Mark your calendar from Nov. 19 and Nov. 20 for Shecky's Girls Night Out at the Catalina Hotel in South Beach. The Sheckys' folks tell us they will have designer fashions up to 75 percent off (including cocktail dresses -- If only I had a place to wear one, sigh), complimentary spa services, cocktails and munchies.

Each room of the hotel's main building will reflect the style and personality of each of the designers. You can purchase tickets to win a Goodie Bag, which will be stuffed with more than $100 of must-have products -- such as Aquafresh White Trays, Aveeno, Chambord, Dove, Good Earth Premium Coffee and Redken.

Hours are from 6 to11 p.m. You must be 21 or older to attend. The hotel is located at 1732 Collins Ave. (305-674-1160). Admission is $10. Or pay $25 for two Goodie Bag tickets including admission. See sheckys.com for more info.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

> Discuss this entry

No time to shop when we have lines to stand in to vote!

But after you cast your ballot today, check out Kohls.com for 15 percent off everything with only 99 cents shipping per item (unless there's special handling involved.)

Enter the code Election15 to get the special discount.

If you're a Phillies fan -- or know one, you could buy this World Series T-shirt through Kohls.com.

You also can enter to win a $10,000 grand prize in a Kohl's sweepstakes. First prize is a family vacation for four at a Disney World resort and tickets to Cirque du Soleil's La Nouba show in Orlando.

Let's see I've voted, so what shall I buy? Maybe I'll just enter the sweepstakes. It's my birthday week; maybe that's lucky. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

> Discuss this entry

If you love the cottage look, celebrate.

Maine Cottage, which Furniture Today describes as a "specialist in upscale coastal home furnishings," has opened its first Florida store on Clematis Street.

The Grand Opening is today from 4 to 6 p.m., and the first 50 guests will get free Coastal Living beach towels.

The 5,000-square-foot store is also offering a 10 percent discount off all furniture orders until Nov. 1. Maine Cottage specializes in painted furniture like this (at left). Cool, isn't it? They also have rattan pieces that look like they came from grandma's porch. Say hello to Hasty, Beth and Annie, right, when you visit the store.

Maine Cottage is located at 312 Clematis Street West Palm Beach. Call 561-366.0033. See www.mainecottage.com.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

.

> Discuss this entry

Want to find some really one-of-a-kind gifts, and support your local artists? Go to the Pinkghost Fun Fair on Saturday November 8th, from noon to 6 pm.

There will be a hand picked selection of independent shops, including designer toy store Pinkghost, record store Back Bone Records, bookstore Books & Books, delicious pie provider Purple Pie Company, handmade plushies Pinky Punk, vintage clothing retailer Pin Up Vixen, indie T-Shirt retailers Chix Ink, FFee Clothing and so many more.

There's also an art show with 'art on the go' pieces available for purchase. Participating national and international artists include Matias Vigliano (from DOMA), Colorblok (Juliana Pedemonte), Kendra Binney, Mike Bell, John Kissee, Liz Lorini, Ryan Myers, Skaffs, and many more.

In case you needed any more reasons to go: Goodie bags for the first 25 people, live bands, DJ sets by Adam Foster (twilightnotes.com) and nice people all over.

Fairgrounds are across Andrews Avenue from the Museum of Art in Fort Lauderdale, next to Laffing Matterz. The address us 201 South Andrews Avenue.

Admission is $2 for Adults. Children under 10 free admission with adult.

> Discuss this entry

I still remember the brouhaha over the opening of IKEA like it was yesterday. How can it have been a year already?

This weekend, 10/17-19, IKEA Sunrise, FL, is offering a $10 gift card when you spend $50, if you bring the coupon from Thursday's Sun-Sentinel, page 18A. 10/16/08. There's also a coupon for a free meal. I heard the Swedish meatballs are great!

IKEA is located at 151 NW 136th Avenue in Sunrise. (595 West Exit 1) If you haven't been there, be prepared for a treat, but I'm sure it'll be crowded. Sometimes the traffic backed up into the parking lot looks just like the traffic entering a Dolphins game!

> Discuss this entry

Sam's Club announced today (Thursday, Oct. 16) that it's offering a $10 membership good for 10 weeks for families and businesses not currently members.

Consumers can sign up for Sam shopping privileges on two weekends, Oct. 17-19 and Oct. 24-26. Sam's Club stores are in West Palm Beach, Lantana, Coral Springs, Sunrise, Miramar and Miami.

Sam's Club, Costco and other discount shopping stores are likely to be busy places this holiday season when most of us are trying to S-T-R-E-TCH that dollar. Check it out. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

> Discuss this entry

A trunk show Thursday from 4pm-7pm...have a look at the unique hair accessories in the Evita Peroni line. Jeweled holiday pieces, leather headbands, gorgeous clips and barrettes...

Joann, the national trainer for Evita Peroni, will be at the trunk show to demonstrate simple techniques that transform our look from OK to fabulous.

Evita Peroni

In the Harbor Shops at 17th Street Causeway in Ft Lauderdale.

> Discuss this entry

I've heard so much about Filene's Basement. Never been there. I am really excited....I'm finally going to get to shop at Filene's Basement! It feels so...so...what's the word...so very cosmopolitan!!

I saw it on Biscayne Blvd the other day as I drove down to Bal Harbor Shops. Wow, my heart jumped...it looked open...too bad...not yet. A freestanding building on the east side of Biscayne. (17651 Biscayne Blvd, Aventura.)

I live and work in Fort Lauderdale, but it seems there are a few reasons to drive south for discount shopping. Loehmann's is down there, and now Filene's.

What do you think? Is Filene's Basement worth getting excited about? Is it all it's cracked up to be? Have any of you shopped there? Is there a good selection? What kind of things do they sell...Designer dresses...Casual clothes? Which do you like better, Loehmanns or Filene's?

What are your favorite stores for finding bargain clothes in South Florida?

Filene's Basement

> Discuss this entry

Want to dress like Fergie, Demi Moore or Hillary Duff? How about getting "something every female celebrity carries in her purse in case of a slipup?" Sound good to you? It did to me, too. I just love mystery, don't you?

We are giving you plenty of time. Just heard about this cool shopping experience from 5 p.m.-10 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept 24 at Jungle Island's Treetop Ballroom, 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami. Forget the animals and make it a Girls Night Out!

If you order tickets in advance, you'll get that mysterious "something every female celebrity carries" plus other items and free services in a goodie bag. There will be food and an open wine bar. Shopping and wine? Can't wait. You and your gal pals can also get makeovers and compete in a raffle.

Vendors will be selling all the things we love -- jewelry, accessories, shoes, clothing, and home accents. Who are some of them? Bobbi Brown cosmetics. Elezar handbags (Demi Morre, Fergie, Hillary Duff and Natalie Portman are fans.) And Lee Dahlberg of RockBands (Jessica Simpson, Britney Spears and Johnny Depp are fans.)

Admission is $35. Visit www.splurgeevents.net. Or call 305-466-5590. One caveat: You must be at least 21.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

> Discuss this entry