New Orleans/Bham Links

There are a lot of ties to New Orleans that I’ve found in Birmingham – people that are from there and now live here, or businesses that started in NOLA and now operate in the Ham.

One I find most interesting is Green Cream, a topical retinol gel whose formula was created by a New Orleans dermatologist, is produced and based here in Birmingham.

This is a miracle product that most people I know in New Orleans swear by. I just got a bottle of my own and am eager to see results. There is no prescription needed and can be bought over the counter (which I love, so you don’t have to pay for a doctor visit) and spas and skin-care specialists are even allowed to carry this product, so it is easy to obtain. It was even featured in national mags such as Vogue, Lucky and Self. I totally recommend you give it a try.

My Oscar Best Dressed Picks

Last night’s Academy Awards was entertaining, classy and a true celebration of Hollywood’s talent. But I can’t help but feel it lacked the “WOW” factor. Maybe it’s the economy, but the stars didn’t seem as studded as usual.

My favorite dress overall was Maggie Gyllenhaal's strapless, blue, hand-painted Dries van Noten gown. Now it wasn’t the most show-stopping red carpet dress ever, but I think it was my favorite because it is something I could see actually wearing and owning (not that I could afford it).

Second place would have to go to Elizabeth Banks in chiffon Versace with a corset top and ruffled bottom.

I feel like both Sandra Bullock and Kate Winslet looked sleek and amazing - I think they tie for third. Sandra in a lace-bodice gown from Marchesa with shoulder detail (I love the way it tapers and drapes at the bootom)…
And Kate in an Yves Saint Laurent gown with structured bodice and fluid skirt….

And lastly, I loved Rachel McAdams wearing Elie Saab Haute Couture with a pleated bodice and sweetheart neckline – I feel it really suited her.

66 Degrees

It is supposed to be 66 degrees in Bham this Sunday and I know all the locals are itching for warm weather. I’m sure everyone will be heading outdoors on Sunday to nearby parks, walking trails and hiking paths.

I mentioned to my sweet husband that we should get out this weekend, meaning something active like taking our dog hiking, etc. He came back with, “Yeah we’ll take Darby to the dog park and then sit out at Rojo and have a drink.” Haha, can you see why I married him?

So what are you doing this weekend to get out in the weather? I hear a lot of people are going to the Exceptional Chili Cook Off Saturday in Homewood. I myself am really looking forward to Weim & Cheese – a fundraiser to benefit the Weimaraner Rescue of the South (it’s not outside, but nevertheless a great event for a wonderful cause).

I have to give a shout out though to Birmingham Magazine for hosting a very high-end event last night at Ted’s Garage (a very cool venue). It was their “Top Attorneys” party sponsored by Belk and it had a great turnout with wonderful sponsors such as Fish Market and Woodford Reserve providing yummy fare and libations. Julie Keith and her staff did a phenomenal job!