Downtown Susie Brown - Saratoga Shopping Blog For Downtown Saratoga Springs NY

I'VE MOVED!

2009-07-23T01:06:46Z

I am now on blogspot. My new address is the same but you may need to change it in your "favorites". Visit me on www.downtownsusiebrown.com or www.downtownsusiebrown.blogspot.com TODAY!.

Thanks to Saratoga.com for hosting me these last few months - but now I'm out on my own!

Summer Camps

2009-07-14T12:30:00Z

3 Kids = 3 different camps..

Ballet, gymnastics and horse back riding. They may be all girls, but they are all have their own personalities and interests. Like all good parents we embrace their passions even if that means we turn into a glorified cab service!

Thank God for our amazing downtown. I was able to get them outfitted in two stops.

Stop One: Saratoga Dance for all the ballet needs and a new gymnastic leotard and stretch pants. They are knowledgeable, friendly and extremely helpful.

Stop Two: Saratoga Saddlery helped me get my youngest outfitted for the stables and for riding. They have beginner level boots, cute jodhpurs, and helmets {oh yeah, it's not about the outfit} that will keep her safe{r}.

Off I go.... Duty calls...

Browns Weekend Buzz...

2009-07-10T12:00:00Z

Feature Presentation: NYC Ballet performing Americana, Saturday July 11th at 8:00 {support the arts while having a good time. It's a win-win}.

Dress: by Milly at Hunt, Ltd {style name - Summer Gala Dress - how perfect}.

Bling: David Yurman ring at Frank Adams Jewelers, gold leaf earrings at Lucia Boutique {wear your own fireworks}.

Lawn essentials: a ticket, champagne and chairs {cheers!}

Don't leave home without 'em: Flip flops for showing off YOUR dance moves {I'll show you, Peter Martin!} and a wagon {for when you've proved your point}.

Enjoy the Sun!!! Have a great weekend!

Gala Week!

2009-07-08T12:00:00Z

Busy week. Girls are back home {yipeee - missed them so!}, family visiting {love sharing our town with our loved ones even if it keeps me from blogging!}, working on an exciting project, and it's Gala Week! The New York City Ballet opened last night {another yippeee!} and The Gala is Saturday. Thanks to my creative and witty friend, Molly, she makes the ballet gala stress-free for many of us. Find a dress {I'm here to help!}, get the nails done, line up the sitter, make an hors d'oeuvres or dessert to share, make sure my significant other is sufficiently suited {in my case - don't forget the cane!} and off we go to what is always a memorable {especially if you keep the cocktails to a minimum} night. If it's your first time experiencing the ballet gala on the great SPAC lawn... Here are some tips from my friend and a gala picnic pro... "Buy performance tickets after confirming forecast. Bring some rolling device for transport. Prepare for conditions, high heels get stuck in the mud, bugs bite and glass breaks. Blankets are nice on the slope to watch the ballet and chairs help ease tired toes". And a few disclaimers {she is a lawyer}... "Satisfaction Almost Guaranteed. Not responsible for lost or misplaced items including significant others. Injuries incurred on the dance floor or elsewhere are due to an act of God and are signs that it may be time to switch drinks or dance floors..." This is an event that cannot be missed in Saratoga. It appeals to everyone and you will see everything {best of all - the amazing NYC Ballet}. Ballet, friends, good food and drink, fireworks, and dancing for the common folks - not just the ballerinas - in 3 different tents. Grab your picnic blanket, a bottle of champagne, put on that LBD and kick off the summer season SARATOGA STYLE!

Happy 4th of July!!!

2009-07-03T12:08:47Z

Downtown is the place to be on the 4th. Lots of activities planned in Congress Park and all around town. The All-American BBQ and Dessert festival will be going on all through town - stop by the Visitor's Center for ballot information {so American - you can vote for your favorite}. Rock out to REO Speedwagon, Styx and 38 Special at SPAC or spend it at home with family and friends. A must for all ages are the Fireworks at Congress Park at dark. Express your your independence and celebrate your way!

While the Kids are Away, the Parents will Play!

2009-07-01T12:00:00Z

Out on a Monday night! How strange, how unexpected, how FUN! The kids are away visiting their NH cousins so my husband and I have some flexibility this week. We jumped into our week free of parental duties by a enjoying a summer night downtown. Our first stop on a nice summer evening is the Saratoga City Tavern. Known for it's 5 floors of diverse musical entertainment - the fifth floor is the place to be in the summer. The roof top bar over looks the city and is the perfect place to enjoy a beverage as the sun sets.

Our next stop? The Wine Bar. We are truly fortunate to have this establishment in our town. The quality, service and impeccable food rivals any 4 star NYC restaurant. Having spent a fair time in NYC and our love of travel has allowed us to eat in many fine restaurants. The Wine Bar's food and wine list delivers the taste and experience you would expect to get in a major metropolitan city. We sat outside, drank some very good wine {I had a glass of white Italian - my husband a White Burgundy}, I had the scallops {delicious} and my husband had the tenderloin {highly recommend} and enjoyed an evening with the man I love in the city I love!

Happy Birthday, Peter!

The Staycation Continues....

{Giveaway Wednesday to return in 2 Weeks!}

Definition of Hip

2009-06-29T12:01:51Z

n : the laterally projecting region of each side of the lower or posterior part of the mammalian trunk formed by the lateral parts of the pelvis and upper part of the femur together with the fleshy parts covering them.

adj : very fashionable.

{from the Merriam-Webster's Dictionary}

My very hip husband is having some trouble with his hip. They may need to replace his joint but they can never take away his fabulousness. Too much pain and discomfort has caused us to postpone our trip. We will enjoy the best time of year in Saratoga {even if I have to get him a cane to do so!}. Lots to do and celebrate {my old man turns 40 this week}.

The ultimate hip accessory in a horse town? A leather belt with a huge horse themed buckle. Find great ones at Saratoga Saddlery on Broadway. They also carry Lucchese boots, great hats and all your horse needs on and off the saddle.

The Ultimate Bathing Beauty {Giveaway announced}

2009-06-26T19:24:16Z

She was such a P.Y.T.

As troubled as they may have became in life - they left their mark with their talent and style. No one will ever forget the "Farrah" hair of the 70's or Michael's glove, red leather jacket or moon walk of the 80's.

This week's giveaway winner is....

Beth

"I would love to check out this new store and get a new suit!"

Congratulations!!!

Have a great weekend everyone... I have the urge to go to Vapor or Mare to dance to some 70's and 80's music! Anyone else???

{Sorry for the late post... need to get used to the summer schedule - or lack thereof!}

Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny {Giveaway Wednesday!}

2009-06-24T12:00:00Z

You work hard at the gym. Faithful to your boot camp buddies, do your crunches, run 3x a week, yoga, pilates, kick boxing, tennis, and what about spin class? Forget about it - you must lose 5 pounds with the amount you sweat. For what? Bathing suit season. It's here, it's short, and it's time to flaunt your results. The yellow polka dot bikini may not be your choice, so this weeks giveaway will help you choose the right suit for you...

Make a comment for your chance to win a $45.00 gift certificate to The Clothes Line. They will help you in your quest for the best look to suit you this summer.

Make a comment to enter to win!

Avoid the Tourist Look this Summer...

2009-06-23T12:00:00Z

You know what I'm talking about... Big white sneakers, fanny pack, nose in a map. Although the last one may be unavoidable the other two must be avoided at all cost. Am I suggesting 3 inch heels at Disney {seen that} or that you should refrain from all comfort and practicality? Certainly not! Sensible shoes can be comfy and chic. I found these sandals by Seychelles at Violet's which serve both needs perfectly. These will easily go from day to evening, shorts to maxi dress with ease. The soles have a nice cushion and support so you can take in all the sightseeing, shopping, and strolling without the dogs barking. Do Saratoga proud - leave the white sneakers at home {well, unless you plan on working out} and show off your Saratogian Style...

Love, love, love....

2009-06-22T12:00:00Z

My husband, my girls, Aggie's. Shari Voce Jewelry, T- Bag dresses, and traveling... Guess what??? They all go together. Yes folks, I'm packing my bags and heading off to... well, I'm not telling you that... yet. But, trust me, there will be nice beaches, amazing food, good wine, strong coffee, lazy days, gorgeous scenery, a birthday {not mine} to celebrate, scenic views, and lots of fashion to take in... Come join me {at least cyberly} this week as I pack and take off...where???

Happy Week End!!! {Giveaway Winner Announced}

2009-06-19T12:00:00Z

I leave you this week with some shots from Balet Flowers and Design {how brilliant are those peonies? I just can't get enough}. I've been a big fan of Balet for some time. Suzanne and her team have a great love for horticulture and it shows. Their bouquets at the Farmers Market are gorgeous and their greenhouse {5041 Nelson Ave Ext, Malta NY} has a bounty of beautiful blooms awaiting your next landscaping project! Their enthusiasm is contagious {even for a novice like me}. They are knowledgeable, friendly and helpful - they truly want the best for you and your garden. Treat yourself to trip out of the rain and into a floral oasis.

Happy Father's Day to all you Dad's out there {a special one to Peter - who is a wonderful father and husband}. Have a great weekend. The sun will come out again soon {I hope!}.

This week's giveaway winner is....

Peg

"I adore the lost art of correspondence!"

Congratulations!

Adirondack Dad {Father's Day Gift Ideas #3}

2009-06-18T12:00:00Z

Life is Good for this outdoors lovin' guy. Comfort and function is high on this guys list. He likes the softest tee's, the more worn in the shorts the better and he refuses to wear big boy shoes on the week end. Nope, it's all about being on the lake, in a tent, getting his hands dirty in the garden, or just lounging in the back yard for this guy. Embrace his casual style with a new tee from the Gap or Life Is Good on Broadway - they have so many fun tee's, hats, sweatshirts and much more great gear with snappy sayings on them. Of course I love the one's that play with words and phrases like "All Those Who Wander Are Not Lost". Jake's simple message of optimism will lift your spirit and Dad's. New Reef flip flops from Saratoga Shoe Depot and he's good to go. Looking for a special gift for this dad? How about a sporty watch by Swiss Army found at N Fox Jewelers. Now he's comfy and stylin' {just don't tell him}!

Retro Dad... {Giveaway Wednesday!}

2009-06-17T12:00:00Z

He lived it - you love it. You just can't get enough of Mad Men, mod graphics, or Kate Spade. Well, this is your lucky day! Bring your Father's Day gift into Paper Dolls of Saratoga, pick some very cool wrapping paper and the girls from PD will give your dad's gift a very retro look. They will wrap it up to resemble what he wore in the 60's or 70's {as seen above}. They might be able to do the 80's but that Gordon Gekko look is not very popular today given the state of the economy...

Today's giveaway? A kate spade {no one says retro better than kate} all occasion gift card set {above}. Need a birthday card? Your covered. An interesting thank-you for that fab dinner party you attended last week end? It's there. Auntie Jane is under the weather? You have a kitchy card that will lift her spirits.

Leave a comment on this post and you will be entered to win a gift for yourself this week!!! You deserve it. You've been a good daughter and/or wife - right??? Winner announced on Friday!

Gourmet Dad {Father's Day Gift Ideas #2}

2009-06-16T12:00:00Z

He likes to cook, you like picnics. He cooks, you take the kids for the day while he is the master of his universe, or at least the kitchen. He cooks, you clean {again}. It's Father's Day. Don't pull a Kate Gosselin {I'm nothing like her!} - let him have his fun. Supply him with a Putnam Market gift card to get the hard-to find gourmet cheeses, olive oils, balsamic vinegars, meats, pastas, WINE, and so much more... Then get him a great cooking tool {Le Creusent pots} or one of these very cool picnic essentials by Gourmet Getaway {wine carrier} or Picnic Time {picnic basket} from Compliments to the Chef {it is picnic season and you are due for an updated picnic tote - you'll - I mean - he'll love it!}. Add some tickets to a SPAC event {he loves the ballet - right?} and you'll have another picnic to look forward to. A Vineyard Vines seersucker button down along with some crisp new shorts from The Pink Paddock will give him that polished summer look you feel in love with. Sounds like a win-win gift to me...