Duchess of Downtown Tacoma

A few photos from around downtown

2012-02-25T16:27:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I just like taking photos of what I see when I'm walking around. Here are some recent captures:

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

5 Fun Photos from Tacoma (Friday Feb. 24th 2012)

2012-02-24T08:00:00.004-08:00

Menu Item of the Day

Carma Carmenere wine of Chile
This is Jason Alexander, bartender and co-owner of The Villa Caffe & Imbibery.
He says this is the good stuff.

The Villa Caffe & Imbibery.
1328 Market Street, Tacoma, WA
(253) 222-4184
http://www.thevillacaffe.com
Connect on Facebook

Fashion Item of the Day

Team shirts, no one will ever say you're not a team player again.
YOU'RE WELCOME.

Broadway's Best Antiques
742 Broadway St, Tacoma WA
Connect on Facebook

Home Decor Item of the Day

Zebra foot stool alert people. Can cute shoes be far away? I think not.

Broadway's Best Antiques
742 Broadway St, Tacoma WA
Connect on Facebook

Move of the Day

Buying tickets to a show at the Pantages is always a good move.
Pantages Theater
901 Broadway Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 591-5890
http://www.broadwaycenter.org/

Moment of Bliss


When its cold and rainy outside, you can walk, jog or bike inside if you're a member of Clara Spa. Members have unlimited use of the Courtyard Marriott gym among other spa amenities. Clara Spa 1506 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98402 Connect on Facebook 253.682.2005 http://www.ClarasSpa.com

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

5 Fun Photos from Tacoma (Thurs Feb. 23rd 2012)

2012-02-23T08:00:00.004-08:00

Menu Item of the Day

Wednesday is burger night at The Villa! Mine was so yummy
that I took a bite before I even remembered to take a photo!
The Villa Caffe & Imbibery.
1328 Market Street, Tacoma, WA
(253) 222-4184
http://www.thevillacaffe.com
Connect on Facebook

Fashion Item of the Day

Seriously! Shoegasm!!
London Couture
746 Broadway St.,
253-905-0407

Home Decor Item of the Day

Signed original serigraph
Broadway's Best Antiques
742 Broadway St, Tacoma WA
Connect on Facebook

Move of the Day

Downward Facing Dog
Source Yoga
2712 N 21st St. Suite A
Tacoma, WA 98406
p. 253.756.8066
http://sourceyogaonline.com/

Moment of Bliss

Hanging out with like-minded friends! :)
This photo was taken at an IgniteU Event for entrepreneurs and business owners.
In the photo: Patricia Lecy-Davis (GoLocal, Embellish Multispace Salon, Smooth & Juicey), Jessica Alexander (Nutti Yogini), Angela Jossy (ART BUS, Another Jossy Productions) and Sonia Jewell (Jewell Day Spa).
For more information about IgniteU visit:
https://www.facebook.com/igniteuevents

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

5 Fun Photos from Tacoma (Wed Feb. 22nd 2012)

2012-02-22T08:00:00.011-08:00

Menu Item of the Day

Vegetable Tray
The Villa Caffe & Imbibery.
1328 Market Street, Tacoma, WA
(253) 222-4184
http://www.thevillacaffe.com
Connect on Facebook

Home Decor Item of the Day

A hot new decorating trend: Birdcages!
Paint this a bright color and put something cool inside it like
a chandelier, candelabra, flowers or a pretty plant.
Hang it from the ceiling, put it on a pedestal, bedazzle it, drape it in pearls,
wrap a bow around it, get creative and make it your own!
For more birdcage ideas, click here.
Find this one at:
Broadway's Best Antiques
742 Broadway St, Tacoma WA
Connect on Facebook

Fashion Item of the Day

Ready to wear: Just add hot cowboy

UrbanXchange
1934 Pacific Ave., Tacoma, WA, 98402. (253) 572-2280
http://urbanxchangetacoma.tumblr.com/

Dance Move of the Day

Today's move of the day is by Paul and Polly from Mousai Studios and features music from Voxxy Vallejo.

Mousai Studios
759 Saint Helens Avenue Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 232-6034
http://www.mousaistudios.com/

Daily Moment of Bliss

My laptop was getting overrun with too many files and it was causing problems but instead of having to back everything up, my friends at The Computer Hub swapped my laptop harddrive with a new one and put my old one inside this handy little external harddrive case. Now I have the best of both worlds, fast fresh new harddrive and access to all my files without any extra work. Not having to go through all my files and figure out what to move or delete was a serious moment of bliss for me. :)

The Computer Hub
919 Pacific Ave. Tacoma
WA 98402
http://www.tcub.com/

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

5 Fun Photos from Tacoma (Tues Feb. 21st 2012)

2012-02-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

Menu Item of the Day

Turkey berry panini sandwich packed to-go for me so I could
eat it poolside at Clara Spa.

The Villa Caffe & Imbibery.
1328 Market Street, Tacoma, WA
(253) 222-4184
http://www.thevillacaffe.com
Connect on Facebook

Home Decor Item of the Day

Rare and collectible Hubley Colt 45 cap gun
1959-1965 civil war anniversary

Broadway's Best Antiques

742 Broadway St, Tacoma WA

Connect on Facebook

PH#253.617.3509

http://www.broadwaysbestantiques.com

Fashion Item of the Day

Casual hat perfect for a rainy day

Jewell Day Spa,

2501 6th Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98406

Connect on Facebook

PH#253.572.5224

http://www.jewellspa.com

Dance Move of the Day

Youth/Teen Rueda Class
Studio 6 Ballroom
2608 6th Avenue Tacoma, WA 98406
(253) 905-5301
http://studio6ballroom.com/

Daily Moment of Bliss

Reveal Anti-Aging True Facial:

Rewind the time with a richly infused antioxidant facial with a powerful peel specifically desired to reduce the appearance of tired skin. This facial is a very detailed treatment and may need some makeup free time after the service to achieve best results.

Clara Spa
1506 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98402
Connect on Facebook
253.682.2005
http://www.ClarasSpa.com

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

Pacific Avenue

2012-02-20T10:00:00.000-08:00

Here are some pretty views of downtown Tacoma from dusk until dark on Pacific Avenue.

Tacoma Art Museum

Union Station

University of Washington Tacoma

Washington State History Museum, Anthem Coffee Hous and Museum of Glass

Union Station

Looking down Pacific Avenue toward 13th Street

13th & Pacific Avenue

Someone needs to perform on this empty little stage.

This was taken a different day but its a wider shot of the picture above.

Secret entrance to Tacoma's infamous underground tunnels?

8th & Pacific Ave looking toward 9th St.

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

5 fun photos from Tacoma (Monday, Feb. 20th 2012)

2012-02-20T08:00:00.000-08:00

Menu Item of the Day

Cucumber Lemon Drop

The Villa Caffe & Imbibery.
1328 Market Street, Tacoma, WA
(253) 222-4184
http://www.thevillacaffe.com
Connect on Facebook

Home Decor Item of the Day

Vintage cash register

Broadway's Best Antiques
742 Broadway St, Tacoma WA
Connect on Facebook
PH#253.617.3509

http://www.broadwaysbestantiques.com

Fashion Item of the Day

The perfect spring shoes and purse!

UrbanXchange
1934 Pacific Ave., Tacoma, WA, 98402.
(253) 572-2280
http://urbanxchangetacoma.tumblr.com/

Dance Move of the Day

Today's move of the day is the Superwoman!

Poledello

Poledello Dance Studio

http://www.poledello.com/

Daily Moment of Bliss

Jewell Day Spa

Urban Detox $215
Option 1 Choice of Herbal Body Wrap, a 60 minute Swedish Massage, and finished off with an Ultimate Pedi-Treatment.

Option 2 Choice of Vortex or Moor Mud, a 60 minute Swedish Aromatherapy Massage, and finished off with an Ultimate Pedi-Treatment.

Add a Facial to this package and receive 10% off the price of addition. Gifts of massage, body therapies and facials are wonderful for anyone. Pamper that special someone with a gift of luxury and health. Gift Certificates are available for any amount. Prices subject to change.

Book online
Get more information
Buy a Gift Certificate

Jewell Day Spa 2501 6th Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98406
Connect on Facebook
PH#253.572.5224
http://www.jewellspa.com

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

Chasing pavements

2012-02-20T02:31:00.000-08:00

Once you start noticing, its hard to stop. Here's another batch of photos of Tacoma streets and sidewalks.

Union Station

Communication

water meter in X formation

Night deposit hatch in bank wall

Comcast

Cleanout

Waffle

escape hole

Electric India

WSDOT B-2

TS Traffic

C SUN

AT&T

A circular coverup

Entrance to invisible door

Entrance to another invisible door

BELL SYSTEM

CITY OF TACOMA
Confined Space

MEN

Patented March 31 1985

Infamous Meconi's

Lit from below the sidewalk

H stands for ....

G I wonder what this one is for

Hatch marked only "Tacoma" written in stone. Hmmm.

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

A Tribute to Tacoma Public Works: a well grounded photo montage

2012-02-18T23:41:00.000-08:00

I was walking across town today to visit with my family and celebrate my brother's birthday over at The Rock and as I was walking I was struck by the beauty of the streets. I mean that quite literally. I just started taking pictures of these things and I couldn't stop. I even continued on the way home. There were so many and they were all different and cool. If I had the money to do it I would frame these images and put them in a gallery show. I call it "A Tribute to Tacoma Public Works."

I hope that after looking at these photos you too can see the beauty in our Tacoma streets, and appreciate those who look after them.

Brick sidewalk

Ped X-ing

Weird Wall

Confined space

Tub Lite Street Lighting

Drain

Valves

TLO

COMM Fogtite Traffic Signal

When you pull into this parking lot, a voice says "Welcome to the G Lot."
I still giggle every time I think about it.

Tacoma Power

Telephone

Water

Irrigation Control Valve

Hydrant

I call this one "Life is grate"

Street Lig

Fog Tite Water Meter

Water meter

Rainbird

Fire Alarm

Stormceptor

Kam-Lok Atlas Foundry

Sewer 6957

Drain

Monitor Well

Water

Traffic Signal

Outfall to stream dump no pollutants

Stand Clear

Yellow Poles guarding swirly grates

Babe Ruth

Alchemical symbol for Fire

Duke Ellington

Olympic FDY.co

Old Castle

Bingham Gas

wOw

Concentric circles

Missing tree

Tree hugger

Fog Tite

Beautiful man hole

Thanks Tacoma. Stay grounded and keep letting that creativity show through in unexpected places. You are beautiful even if some people don't yet appreciate you.

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

Some pictures from February's ART BUS Tour

2012-02-18T20:28:00.000-08:00

Every third Thursday there is a bus tour of art exhibits in Tacoma. Its a really fun thing to do and it only costs $10 to ride. Its a great way to discover local places that you might not be aware of. Here are a few shots from the February tour. For more info visit: http://www.Tacomaartbus.com.

Tacoma Art Museum gift shop: Jewelry by Elaine Vogel.

Linda Danforth Studio: Fiber art (hats, scarves, flower pins) by Lori Adams

Linda Danforth Studio: Jewelry by Linda Danforth

253 Collective: Provided succulent strawberries and chocolate for the ART BUS riders.

253 Collective: all kinds of art by members of the collective gallery.
More info here: http://253collective.com/default.aspx

Embellish Multispace Salon: Art by Republic of 253

Embellish gave us live music by Mike Couccules, cupcakes, sweetheart candies and sodas.

Behold the new Embellish sweatshirts designed by Republic of 253!

Brick House Gallery: Self portrait by Lynn DiNino

Brick House Gallery: Self portrait by Jada-Moon Gridley

Brick House Gallery provided a large buffet of snacks for us.

Brick House Gallery: the self portrait show was very well attended.

Nine Lives Vintage: cute purses and other accessories

Nine Lives Vintage: Paintings by April Cox

The Framemakers

The Framemakers: Anna at Framemakers made us cookies and cream. She said to tell you hi!

Mousai Studio: Art by Katia Ramirez

Mousai Studio had an impressive buffet for ART BUS guests

Last stop: The Swiss Pub with art by Xuri

Next month's ART BUS tour will be the 2 year anniversary tour on March 15th. Only advance ticket holders will be admitted. The tour will be by invitation only and for those age 21 or older. If you would like an invitation, email angela.jossy@gmail.com.

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

My weekly wanderings ...

2012-02-18T19:40:00.000-08:00

I was all over town this week. I even went to Seattle two times! I am overdue from some girl cave time for sure. I'm gonna get right on that after I finish 3 blog posts for you. :)

Here are some of the cool things I saw this week. Coming up in my next blog is the February ART BUS tour blog and a blog literally about the streets of downtown Tacoma. Don't worry, its more interesting than it sounds.

The historic Winthrop building. Often in the news, full of good stories and it has a very rich history. A true Tacoma gem.

A view of the tide flats from Broadway Street next to the Elks Building that will soon be the home of the new McMenemins project. This will be the view from the new apartment/hotel if funding comes through for it. Read more about that here.

The fountain in Frost Park, a small corner park on 9th & Pacific Ave. There are 4 fountains downtown Tacoma. • South 11th and Broadway (Broadway Plaza), South 10th and Fawcett (McCormick Park), South 17th and Pacific Ave (Tollefson Plaza) and this one: South 9th and Pacific Ave (Frost Park). Frost Park fountain was out of commission for a long time because it needed $20,000 in repairs but as of last September its back and looking great!

Here are a couple more shots of it:

Here is the move of the week I didn't get to show you last Tuesday.

Studio 6 Ballroom
2608 6th Avenue Tacoma, WA 98406
(253) 905-5301
http://studio6ballroom.com/

Basic Swing with live music by Steve Stefanowicz after Progressive Dinner on 6th ave (Gateway to India, Six Olives, Caffe Dei, Studio 6 Ballroom).

Walking Tour (9th & St. Helens)

Downtown Vision Center
766 St Helens
Tacoma, WA 98402
Phone: 253-627-8711
http://www.visionsource-downtownvision.com/

Also on this street:

Pioneer Adult Counseling Services
http://www.pioneerhumanservices.org/

Christian Science Reading Room
756 Saint Helens Avenue Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 627-7273
http://christiansciencetacoma.org/reading.php

Margaret's Restaurant
754 Saint Helens Avenue Tacoma, WA 98402
Connect on Facebook

Pioneer Adult Counseling, Christian Science Reading Room and Margaret's Cafe

Pollie's Closet
759 Saint Helens Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 232-6034
http://www.mousaistudios.com/

Pink shoes!
(See also art by Sherrie "Voxxy" Minter in the background!)

Great outfits on the wall

I love this faux fur leopard print coat!

Rene Shea Fashion
751 St Helens Ave. Tacoma, WA 98402. (253) 507-9349
Connect on Facebook

Classy and sexy red heels

Lovely black lace!

Love this faux fur purse!

Broadway's Best Antiques.
742 Broadway St, Tacoma WA
Connect on Facebook
PH#253.617.3509

http://www.broadwaysbestantiques.com

I think just owning one of these would make money more attracted to me.

I've always loved these antique radios.

Tacoma Rubber Stamp

935 Market Street Tacoma, WA 98402

(253) 238-0053

http://www.tacomarubberstamp.com/

Various types of nameplates

More plaques than a dentist.

Promo material

They make trophies!

and some other customized stuff

Give someone a gold star!

Customized stamps

Because you deserve it:

Embellish Multispace

1121 Court D # A Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 752-8144

http://embellishtacoma.com/

Meet Najamoniq Todd. She cut my bangs a couple weeks ago and I've never been happier with them. This girl is not only a skilled stylist, she's also a true Tacoma treasure! She sings with the Rockaroake band, she's a DJ and she's just a cool person to know. Make an appointment with her at Embellish Multispace Salon. If its humanly possible, she will make you look good. Trust me, go see her or any of the Embellish girls. They seriously know how to rock it. :)

Jewell Day Spa

2501 6th Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98406

Connect on Facebook
PH#253.572.5224
http://www.jewellspa.com

The faux fur on this scarf is the softest most lovely I've ever felt.

Super cute 253 Heart dog tag necklace with swarovski crystals by Linda Danforth Designs.

Sparkly and amazing garden art by Deidre Perez Norris.

Great smelling candles to create the perfect ambiance for your home spa experience.

Cute owl ring

Cute sparkly elastic bedazzled ring

Several tea flavors from Mad Hat Tea Co.

And just so you know what a welcoming city Tacoma is, even when we tell you to get lost, we still provide a place for you to relax a moment before you go.

Check out the bench seat just a few feet away from the sign that says
"Scram, we don't want you hanging out here." (I'm paraphrasing of course)

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

5 awesome things found in Tacoma (Thursday Feb. 16th 2012)

2012-02-16T01:00:00.000-08:00

Menu Item of the Day

Blood Orange Margarita
The Villa Caffe & Imbibery.
1328 Market Street, Tacoma, WA
(253) 222-4184
http://www.thevillacaffe.com
Connect on Facebook

Home Decor Item of the Day

How cute would these pink retro bar stools look around your kitchen island?
Broadway's Best Antiques. 742 Broadway St, Tacoma WA
Connect on Facebook
PH#253.617.3509

http://www.broadwaysbestantiques.com

Fashion Item of the Day

Furry vest
UrbanXchange
1934 Pacific Ave., Tacoma, WA, 98402. (253) 572-2280
http://urbanxchangetacoma.tumblr.com/

Move of the Day

Sexy slinky slide by fan out move by Paul and Polly from Mousai Studio

759 Saint Helens Avenue Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 232-6034
http://www.mousaistudios.com/

Daily Moment of Bliss

The right towel can make ordinary, extraordinary.
Jewell Day Spa, 2501 6th Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98406 Connect on Facebook PH#253.572.5224 http://www.jewellspa.com

5 awesome things found in Tacoma (Wed, Feb 15th 2012)

2012-02-15T02:10:00.000-08:00

Menu Item of the Day

The BLTTA crescent sandwich (Bacon, Lettuce, Turkey, Tomato and Avocado)
with the Tomato Bisque soup from:
The Villa Caffe & Imbibery.
1328 Market Street, Tacoma, WA
(253) 222-4184
http://www.thevillacaffe.com
Connect on Facebook

Home Decor Item of the Day

According to Wikipedia, neon is the chemical element that has the symbol Ne and an atomic number of 10. Although a very common element in the universe, it is rare on Earth. I found this super cute pink and blue neon radio at:
Broadway's Best Antiques. 742 Broadway St, Tacoma WA
Connect on Facebook
PH#253.617.3509

http://www.broadwaysbestantiques.com

Fashion Item of the Day

Amazing gold shoes!
Renee Shea Fashion
751 St Helens Ave. Tacoma WA
(253) 507-9349

Move of the Day

I'm still looking for a Yoga business that I can feature in this spot once a week.
In the mean time, here's something I found online: Woman in tree position.

Daily Moment of Bliss

My friends over at Jewell Day Spa have been working overtime to make their valentine guests feel special. They are every day heroes! After the holiday rush, make sure you get your own appointment. I know I'm going to! While you're there ask about these amazing bed sheets they carry. Now you can buy them and put them on your own bed!!
Jewell Day Spa, 2501 6th Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98406
Connect on Facebook
PH#253.572.5224
http://www.jewellspa.com

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

My magnificent collossal dreams

2012-02-13T21:58:00.000-08:00

Do you want to know what's really on my mind? It's silly really but whenever I daydream, I think of elephants.

Not just ordinary elephants, although all of them are majestic and awesome. I'm dreaming of something bigger. I'm always dreaming of something bigger. This obsession with giant elephants was probably the reason I chose this image for my latest rebranding. It's a reminder to continue to think bigger!

It all started with a YouTube video. Someone posted a YouTube video about a robot dog and after I watched it I saw all these other robot animal videos on the side of the screen but one of them stood out. I clicked on it and it has stayed with me ever since. It was the "robotic" (actually its a hydrolic puppet but lets not split hairs) elephant known as the Sultan's Elephant. It was made by a French company called La Machine.

You can watch the whole spectacle here:

I was never the same after that. My ambition for festivals grew greater and greater in magnitude. If they could make something like the Sultan's Elephant in Europe, what kind of amazing large scale event could I do in Tacoma? I want to do something so big that people from all over the world would come here to see it.

I was studying Coney Island because I want to do an event with a Coney Island type of theme next year. That's when I discovered Lucy and her relatives. Lucy was an elephant shaped hotel. There is a very interesting account of her whole story here:

http://www.impactlab.net/2007/07/29/lucy-the-elephant-hotel/

Here are some vintage images I found online:

Are they trying to tempt me? Practically giving me blueprints?

And of course who could forget the Moulin Rouge elephant?

Actual Moulin Rouge photo

Here's the unforgettable scene featuring Sabine's elephant in the Hollywood version of Moulin Rouge:

So now I ask you, is it asking too much to hope someday I will have a giant elephant of my very own? Will he walk down the street? Will he shelter overnight guests? Will he bring people from all over the world?

I don't know. I only know that I dream of elephants.

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown Tacoma

Last minute Valentine gift ideas + 5 awesome things found in Tacoma (Monday Feb. 13)

2012-02-13T00:56:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day Flowers from Blitz & Co.

Last minute Valentines Day Gift Ideas

I figure you might be living a very busy and complicated life right now and maybe you need to get a few last minute Valentines gifts for special people in your life. I've included a list of links to places where you can't go wrong. These people will totally take care of you and get you out the door with something fabulous that will win you major cupid points. If you do visit any of these places please tell them the Duchess sent you so they can take extra special care of you.

And now for your 5 awesome things of the day:

Menu Item of the Day

Longshoreman Sandwich from The Villa Caffe & Imbibery.
1328 Market Street, Tacoma, WA
(253) 222-4184
http://www.thevillacaffe.com
Connect on Facebook

Home Decor Item of the Day

Rockin red retro couch from Broadway's Best Antiques.
742 Broadway St, Tacoma WA
Connect on Facebook
PH#253.617.3509

http://www.broadwaysbestantiques.com

Fashion Item of the Day

Classy and sexy shawl at Jewell Day Spa,
2501 6th Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98406
Connect on Facebook
PH#253.572.5224
http://www.jewellspa.com

Dance Move of the Day

Martini Swirl by Poledello Dance Studio
http://www.poledello.com/

Daily Moment of Bliss


Eucalyptus Steam Room at Clara Spa 1506 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98402 Connect on Facebook 253.682.2005 http://www.ClarasSpa.com

I hope you have a happy Valentines Day! Much love to you from the Duchess! :)

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

Five steps to better living (Friday Feb. 10th)

2012-02-10T01:07:00.000-08:00

Home Decor Item of the Day:

Broadway's Best Antiques
742 Broadway St, Tacoma WA
Connect on Facebook

This chair may not be your cup of tea, but it happens to be a very rare and valuable steer horn chair the likes of which can be found in the National Texas Longhorn Museum so if you're
a collector or if you just really love authentic western decor, this bull's for you. YOU'RE WELCOME!

Fashion Item of the Day:

Nanette's
762 Broadway, Tacoma, WA 98402
1 253.232.7718
http://nanettesclassicclothing.ybsites.com
Connect on Facebook

At Nanette's you will find new or gently used fashion, shoes, lingerie and purses, some of which are name brands like Michael Kors, Coach, Dooney & Bourke and more.

Menu Item of the Day:

The Villa Cafe
1328 Market Street, Tacoma, WA
(253) 222-4184
http://www.thevillacaffe.com
Connect on Facebook

OMG look at that cheeseburger! I know there's been a lot of dead cows in this blog post today but I want you to know that these cows were already dead before the camera's came out. Rest assured. No cows were harmed in the making of this blog.

Dance Move of the Day:

Tacoma City Ballet
508 6th Ave # 10 Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 272-4219
http://www.tacomacityballet.com/

Yeah, I don't think you should try this one at home. I just really liked the picture
( Full disclosure: I stole it from their Facebook page )

Daily Moment of Bliss:

The Computer Hub
919 Pacific Ave. Tacoma
WA 98402
http://www.tcub.com/

That moment when you get your laptop back from the shop and all the quirky stupid things are no longer plaguing you!
That was my moment of bliss earlier this week! I highly recommend The Computer Hub. It's conveniently located downtown Tacoma on Pacific Ave .

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

PS. If you are reading this blog from somewhere outside Tacoma or even outside the United States I'm really excited to know about that so please say hello in the comments below and let me know how you ended up here. :)

Five steps to better living (Thursday Feb 9th)

2012-02-09T00:56:00.000-08:00

Home Decor Item of the Day:

Broadway's Best Antiques
742 Broadway St, Tacoma WA
Connect on Facebook

Should I make a joke about being a phoney? Nah, let's not go there. Let's just enjoy the pretty picture. :)

Fashion Item of the Day:

Linda Danforth Designs
19th & Jefferson (inside 253 Collective Gallery), Tacoma, WA 98402
http://lindadanforthdesigns.com

Ruby and Sapphire rings. Classy and cute at the same time.

Menu Item of the Day:

Over The Moon Cafe
709 Opera Alley Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 284-3722
http://overthemooncafe.net/

Bourban-glazed wild salmon filet

Dance Move of the Day:

((( Stay tuned! New move of the day content coming soon! )))

Daily Moment of Bliss:

Take a walk on a clear night downtown Tacoma and enjoy the pretty lights!

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

Five Steps to better living (Wed. Feb. 8th)

2012-02-08T07:04:00.000-08:00

I hope these things enhance your life today! :)

Home Decor Item of the Day:

Broadway's Best Antiques
742 Broadway St, Tacoma WA
Connect on Facebook

Here's a little tip: Set an antique camera on a shelf or cabinet
in your livingroom or den. It let's people know you're smart and worldly.

Fashion Item of the Day:

UrbanXchange
1932 Pacific Ave Tacoma, WA 98402 (253)572-2280
Connect on Facebook

Sexy black heels will make your posterior look superior.

Menu Item of the Day:

The Villa Caffe & Imbibery
1328 Market Street, Tacoma, WA
(253) 222-4184
http://www.thevillacaffe.com
Connect on Facebook

The Turkey Berry crescent is sophisticated and delicious, just like you.

Move of the Day:

((( I am currently looking for more dance studios, yoga studios, or any kind of activity that would qualify as a "move" of the day to put in this section. Contact angela.jossy@gmail.com if interested.)))

Daily Moment of Bliss:

Jewell Day Spa
2501 6th Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98406
Connect on Facebook

Jewell Day Spa "Sanctuary". It is THE place to relax before services. Enjoy a warm herbal foot soak and a warm herbal neck wrap while sipping on a cup of yummy Tea Forte Tea. Are you feeling the relaxation?

Jewell was built with very environmentally conscious practices. For example bamboo is used which is a sustainable material because it is actually a grass that grows back when it is cut down. The pedestals pictured here that the chairs sit on were recycled former fixtures from Gottshaulks Department Store. The containers that hold the rolled towels were once used to bath babies in China. The wall decorations behind the chairs are Chinese antiques. Book a service at Jewell Day Spa and your moment off bliss is guaranteed.

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

5 Tips for better living (Tuesday Feb. 7th)

2012-02-07T07:01:00.000-08:00

Happy Tuesday! Here are 5 things I want you to enjoy today!

Home Decor Item of the Day:

Broadway's Best Antiques
742 Broadway St, Tacoma WA
Connect on Facebook

At least one chandelier for each room. That's the new rule.
Broadway's Best has this and more like it on display.

Fashion Item of the Day:

London Couture
746 Broadway St.,
253-905-0407

Cute purses without the super scary price tags. YOU'RE WELCOME!

Menu Item of the Day:

The Villa Caffe & Imbibery
1328 Market Street, Tacoma, WA
(253) 222-4184
http://www.thevillacaffe.com
Connect on Facebook

Turkey wrap sandwich: fresh, delicious and totally guilt-free!

Today's Move of the Day:

Studio 6 Ballroom!
2608 6th Avenue Tacoma, WA 98406
(253) 905-5301
http://studio6ballroom.com/

Daily Moment of Bliss:

Jewell Day Spa
2501 6th Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98406
Connect on Facebook

Take a virtual tour of Jewell Day Spa, winner of best spa in multiple newspapers and magazines including King 5's Evening Magazine. Click here to be transported to a moment of bliss!

Have a great day! See you tomorrow for 5 more tips to better living!

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

Five steps to living the good life! (Monday Feb. 6th)

2012-02-06T21:55:00.000-08:00

Here are 5 things I hope you can enjoy today!

Home decor item of the day:

Broadway's Best Antiques

Feeling rebellious? I found motorcycle and other vintage-style jackets hanging around at Broadway's Best Antiques

Fashion item of the day:

UrbanXchange
1932 Pacific Ave Tacoma, WA 98402 (253)572-2280
Connect on Facebook

Handmade felt flowers attached to thin elastic hair bands.

Menu item of the day:

The Villa Caffe & Imbibery
1328 Market Street, Tacoma, WA
(253) 222-4184
http://www.thevillacaffe.com Connect on Facebook

Chicken Caprese Sandwich. To. Die. For!!

Move of the day:

Today's move of the day was brought to you by Poledello Studio in downtown Tacoma where you too can study pole dancing and aerial fitness. For more information, visit: http://www.poledello.com/

Daily Moment of Bliss:

Jewell Day Spa
2501 6th Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98406
Connect on Facebook

Get ready for Valentines Day and get your gift certificate from Jewell Day Spa. Its a great gift idea for men or women. You can even celebrate the holiday by getting a couples massage! But here's a tip for you if you are lucky enough to receive a gift certificate from Jewell Day Spa - if you're smart you will use it right away because you only have 5 opportunities to get one (birthday, anniversary, Christmas, Valentines Day and Mothers Day). If you hold onto it from Valentines Day to Mothers Day, you're probably not going to get a second one because you haven't used the first yet! Make sure you AT LEAST get your 5 moments of bliss every YEAR!

See you tomorrow for 5 more tips for better living !

XOXO,

Duchess of Downtown

Adventures of the Duchess (week of Jan. 30 to Feb. 3rd 2012)

2012-02-04T20:29:00.000-08:00

Shoes from UrbanXchange

This week I visited a lot of cool places and saw some really fun things! Its a good thing I don't believe in credit cards or I'd be in big trouble! I've decided to change the format of this blog and post more often so that the posts aren't sooooo looooong! I'm learning as I go here so bear with me. :)

First, in this post, you will see some of the random places I went. Then further down I have this weeks walking tour (every week I show you one shopping zone where you can park once and visit several places within the 2-3 hour parking limit.)

After this, I will have a daily blog with the random things and then at the end of the week, if I have time, I will give you the 2-3 hour guided walking tour of shopping downtown. Does that make sense? Good I hope so. I thought long and hard about the best way to do it and that's 5 or 6 minutes I'll never get back again. :)

Also, please remember to tell these merchants that the Duchess sent you if you decide to go there. The managers know about this blog and it really helps them to know how people hear about their business so as nerdy as you might feel saying it, you're actually doing them a favor by giving that important information.

OK, now for the cool stuff I found this week:

Home Decor

Broadway's Best Antiques
742 Broadway St, Tacoma WA
Connect on Facebook

1930s American Oak dresser

This scale will tell you your weight and your destiny for one cent!

Red shiny footstool, you had me at "red"

His and hers fencing masks. Cheaper than a councilor or a lawyer!
YOU'RE WELCOME! :)

Super cute Eiffel Tower lamp - Ooh la la!

Restaurants

India Mahal823 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA
Connect on Facebook
253-272-5700

My favorite dish! Butter Chicken. Look at those giant chunks of kitchen!
Please visit this restaurant and tell them the Duchess sent you.
You can try any dish on the menu, if you don't like it, you don't have to pay for it.
They will adjust the recipe to make it more or less spicy so just tell them what you prefer.

The Villa Caffe & Imbibery1328 Market Street, Tacoma, WA
(253) 222-4184
http://www.thevillacaffe.com
Connect on Facebook

Caprese sandwich OMG!! You must try it! So good!

Longshoreman chicken and BBQ sandwich. Delicious!

Turkey wrap sandwich - loved it!

Turkey and cranberry cream cheese crescent sandwich - my NEW favorite!

This was what my friend Heidi ordered (the daily special that day):
Hot ham and cheese sandwich with freshly made tomato bisque soup.
Heidi said the sandwich was yummy and the soup was velvety and amazing.

Here's a view of the inside of the restaurant on a very busy night.
They were celebrating the birthday of one of the Villagio residents.
This restaurant is in the same building as Villagio so there are quite a few regulars from the building.
This just adds to the homey feel of the place.

My friend Linda Danforth's signature drink. Only she and the owner/bartender Jason know what's in it.
He makes it for her specially.

Smooth & Juicey

Creamsicle Smoothie from the "Power" menu. Yeah baby! Powered me right up and it tasted so good that I slurped that thing down before my feet could carry me more that one or two blocks away. :)

Green Machine from the "Skinny" menu. Much more delicious than you can even believe!
(Banana, avacado, pineapple, matcha, rice milk, mango and spinach)

Check out the menu and then pop by Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm to order yours.
They are located next to the Downtown YMCA on Market Street.

Paddy Coynes
815 Pacific Ave., Tacoma WA 98402
http://www.paddycoynes.com/

I tried the Turkey bread bowl for the first time and it was just showstopping good!
It was way too much food for one meal but every bite was heaven so I ate the whole thing anyway
and thenI laid on the couch like a slug for several hours. It was still totally worth it. :)

Tahoma Tea & Co
(formerly called The Den and inside UrbanXchange clothing store)
1932 Pacific Avenue Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 572-2280

New mural in progress! :)

Back wall "stage" area. This is where the open mic show happens.

I found all these hand painted cute signs on the door inside their bathroom. Aren't they cute?
And informational ! :)

Clothing

UrbanXchange
1932 Pacific Avenue Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 572-2280
Shop there right now on Etsy! Click Here

London Couture
746 Broadway St.,
253-905-0407

That's hot.

OMG I really want these!

Health & Wellbeing

Clara Spa
1506 Pacific Ave
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 682-2005
Connect on Facebook

Members of Clara spa have free use of the Courtyard Marriott swimming pool and hot tub.

Members of Clara spa have free use of the Courtyard Marriott gym.

Clara Spa offers spray tan service.
This is Kileigh Carrington and she would love to help you get a healthy and sundamage-free glow.

Rosie, (who does mani's, pedi's and more) has a LARGE selection of nail colors for you to choose from.

While you get your pedicure you can enjoy this massage chair with a whirlpool foot soak.

Embellish Multispace Salon
1121 Court D #A, Tacoma, WA 98402
253.752.8144
http://www.embellishtacoma.com/

This week at Embellish they did Go Red makeovers. Here are a few pictures of the event. The ladies had their hair in foils and I didn't want to invade their privacy so I didn't want to photograph them, just all the cool Go Red swag.

Embellish is selling these Go Red Lipstick & Check Dou's.
When I get paid I am planning to go back and get one.
Red lipstick is essential this spring! :)

Poledello Dance Studio

715 Commerce Street
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 509-8811
E-mail: info@poledello.com

I borrowed the following text from the Poledello website:

"Pole dancing is the ultimate workout and the world is finally catching on! What other workout challenges any of us to climb repeatedly, flip upside down, spin and perform flawless aerial transitions? Where else can we explore artistic expression and play with music and costumes? While challenging our strength, fighting for one more invert and drying our hands off for one more twirl, we are having a blast! We look forward to our workouts and can’t wait to get back on the pole to perfect that next trick! Pole dancing is an amazing journey where we try to defy gravity every time we climb.

"Most importantly, all of us are working to educate mainstream society about this athletic and beautiful sport. We don’t dance to please men. We are not strippers. We aren’t going to apologize for expressing our curves and sexuality. Pole dancing empowers and liberates each of us as we build our muscles and routines. We are trying to perform on stages around the world to show our passion and influence others to join us and applaud us for our efforts. I’m proud to be part of this movement and hope many more women will join me by spinning around a pole. Don’t be afraid to begin! We all start one climb at a time……"

Please check out the first of the daily blogs to see Monday's Move of the Day from Poledello.

Walking Tour of the week:

This week's shopping trip is on St. Helens Street from 6th to 7th Street.

The Mix
635 Saint Helens Avenue Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 383-4327

Tacoma's most popular gay bar on the corner of 7th & St Helens
next to Puget Sound Pizza.

Amocat Cafe
625 Saint Helens Avenue Tacoma, WA 98402

(253) 242-3370 http://amocatcafe.com/

Amocat is Tacoma spelled backwards. Here's the owner/operator Morgan Alexander.
He tried to run away but I was totally ready for him with paparazzi like shutterspeed!
Actually I was just about to take a picture of the front as he came out and he was nice
enough to pose. If you go to Amocat say hi to Morgan from The Duchess!

Just inside the front door you'll find lots of cool Tacoma related swag like this
"Tacoma, like it or leave it" T-shirt.
Even our squirrels have a little attitude around here! :)


You know you're a local when all of these pins have significance for you!

They also have coffee and gargantuan size cookies.

This one almost had me. Sooooo tempting!!

Mandarin Antiques
616 St Helens Ave
Tacoma, WA 98402
253-617-1730
http://mandarinantiquestacoma.com/

Steinway baby, its all about the Steinway.

I had to look twice at the one on the right. What is going on with this guy?

I've always wanted a life size merry go round horse.

Gorgeous!

He looks so happy. I just wanted to rub his belly!

This would look so good in my house. Love this.

I don't know if you can get the proper perspective on this
but its very large like bigger than your average coffee table.

Stink Meat & Cheese
628 St. Helens Avenue
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 426-1347
http://www.stinktacoma.com/

Cheese, meat, beer, wine. That's all 4 food groups, right?
What more could you need?

Owner/Chef Kris Blondin showing off some freshly baked goodies!

Beer

Lasagna dish with 3 sections so you can cook different kinds of lasagna
at one time (like veggie and regular for example)

This baby cooks your eggs and your toast at the same time!

An alternative to SodaStream, this iSi machine carbonates water
so you can make soda at home. Just add flavor! I have a Sodastream and I LOVE IT!

wine

Chocolate wine!

Grow your own mushrooms!


Valentines ideas

I hope you enjoyed this edition. I'm sorry I didn't get to publish this on Friday as planned but my laptop was having some issues so it had to go in the shop for a few days. I have the nice people at The Computer Hub to thank for getting my laptop working again. If you need computer help, please go see them and tell them The Duchess sent you.

Computer Hub, 919 Pacific Ave, Tacoma WA

Thanks everyone, please remember to shop small independent businesses for your favorite products and services whenever possible. And when you shop downtown, please tell them The Duchess sent you! :)

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown Tacoma

My answer is YES

2012-01-29T18:23:00.000-08:00

It's so much more powerful to say YES. Do you know what I mean? I believe in being FOR something I want instead of AGAINST something I don't. If I find myself in a state of anger or anxiety over the world or politics or even a situation in my own life, I try to think about what I would like to see happen instead of complaining and worrying about what I don't want to see happen. I feel like its easier to create a positive outcome when you come at the issue with a positive state of mind. Therefore, I'm pro-sober driving, not against drunk driving. I'm for HEALTHY LIVING, not against cancer, aids, SARS or whatever else threatens us. I am for EQUALITY, not against discrimination. Do you see the distinction and how much different it makes your feel inside? I think you need to understand this fact about me so that you can understand WHY I decided to do this blog.

If I want to see more jobs in my city, if I want to see a stronger community, if I want to see less reliance on fossil fuels, if I want to see better connections between us and our government, if I want to keep the unique personality of my city (and not a strip mall city), if I want to see LOCALLY produced healthy food, if I want to keep our small businesses alive and keep more of them arriving, if I want to see equal access to education and a lot of other good things too, then it makes sense to do everything in my power to support local businesses. It all comes down to that. Spending locally puts 75% back into our local economy. This increases the tax money our city has to fix our roads, pay our teachers, support programs to help our most vulnerable. Small businesses have proven to employ a lot more people than corporations and especially now when many corporations are hiring overseas. A job close to home means less driving. A product locally created doesn't require shipping across country in a gas guzzling truck. Small businesses are often more willing to donate and support our non-profit organizations and participate more in community events.

Some people might feel compelled to camp out and carry signs to express what they believe in. I fully support them. I just have a different form of protest. I want to help Tacoma appreciate Tacoma and help the rest of the world appreciate it too. If Tacoma takes care of Tacoma we'll be a lot less dependent on the Federal Government. If Tacoma revenues increase, maybe one day we can be completely self-sustained in every way including feeding ourselves and getting power from resources right here like hydro, solar and wind. I have a vision for Tacoma that would completely change our skyline. I would love to look at Tacoma and see rooftop gardens, windmills, solar panels, satellite dishes providing city wide wifi. But we'll start with baby steps.

Who knew shopping was such an act of activism! That's right guys, you vote with your dollars. If you are against Corporate Personhood, you can send a message by not giving corporations quite so much of your hard earned wages. Corporations only care about their bottom line. It's their legal obligation to make decisions that make profits for their shareholders. So if you want to communicate with them, you have to speak in a language they understand, sales figures. I hope this gives you somethings to think about.

Without even trying this blog has attracted visitors from other parts of the world. I wonder what would happen if I got really serious about this and gave it slick new look and did some marketing for it? Maybe some time in the future I'll have time for that. For now I'm relying on YOU to tell people about it. And you've been doing a fantastic job by the way! Check this out:

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

BONUS Blog - Snow pics, Food, Shopping , Services and COOL STUFF YOU SHOULD KNOW

2012-01-27T18:28:00.000-08:00

Usually I organize these blogs by location but this time I've organized it by topic. We start with my snow pictures, then we see delicious food and drinks, then we shop, then I show you some cool services you can find downtown and at the very bottom I've included some projects related to downtown that you should really check out including a big event happening on Monday at the Tacoma Convention Center featuring lots of local businesses and workshops called Shift Happens which you do NOT want to miss. I personally selected the musicians so I vouch for their brilliance and our Mayor will be giving the second EVER Annual State of the City address. This event is brought to you by Go Local Tacoma and the Greater Tacoma Community Foundation.

Snow week pictures

My city is ever-so-pretty but never more so when she's covered in snow. I captured a few shots last week in case your were housebound and didn't get to see it. Another thing I love about living in downtown Tacoma is that we never lose power during incumbent weather. If Clear Channel ever has their way and we get those flashy billboards, we should put up a sign when it snows that says, "If you lived here you'd be warm right now!"

And one of the coolest things about a snow storm is that some restaurants stay open and the locals gather inside to toast the pretty white stuff. I had some delicious food downtown these last couple weeks so this next section is all about the grub!

Food

India Mahal
823 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA
Connect on Facebook
253-272-5700

I love that I live near this restaurant because I get to eat there about once a week. One thing I really love about it is that I can try something new and if I don't like it, I don't have to pay for it. They ENCOURAGE you to explore new menu items so this week I tried two new things and I loved them both! They also have mild, medium and hot (spicy) options. These are my own personal plates because I usually get my food to go and scurry back to my girl cave to enjoy it.

Chicken Korma

Gosht Korma (beef)

Imported beers

Paddy Coynes
815 Pacific Ave, Tacoma WA
http://paddycoynes.net/

I'm also in this restaurant quite often. Its my favorite location for client consultations. I love the ambiance, food and fireplace. Here are some of the delicious dishes they offer:

Fog City Steak Sandwich - Skirt steak marinated in
ginger, soy and sesame oil, grilled medium rare and
served on a garlic buttered toasted baguette,
topped with sesame seeds.

Fog City Steak Sandwich (different view)

Shepherd’s Pie - A traditional Irish pub favorite.
Braised ground beef, garlic, onions, carrots, celery and peas.
Served en casserole, topped with mashed potatoes
and browned to a golden crisp.
Served with Irish Soda Bread.

Chicken Skewers Teriyaki glazed chicken skewers. Served with peanut sauce.

The Villa Caffe & Imbibery
1328 Market Street, Tacoma, WA
(253) 222-4184
http://www.thevillacaffe.com
Connect on Facebook

I can often be found at this place too. I go here to hang out with my girl friends or if I want to watch something on live TV. This is where we watched the finale of The Voice when Vicci Martinez was on it. I also like running into so many friends there. This tiny restaurant is in the same building as the Villagio Apartments so they also have a regular crowd of residents that come in. They also have free wifi so its a great place to work away from home and also get a meal that feels home cooked.

Beef Stew

Streetcar Sandwich - turkey, bacon, coastal white cheddar
and their homemade chipotle mayo

Artisan Plate - only $5.00 during Happy Hour (4-6 pm)

Stone IPA

Wingman is a new local downtown brewery.
Jason the bartender/owner of The Villa gives this brew his seal of approval.

Amazing Happy Hour selections with ridiculously low prices

Smooth & Juicey
122 Market Street, Tacoma WA
http://www.smoothandjuicey.com/
Connect on Facebook

From the "Skinny Menu" this is a Green Acre's Smoothie.

From the "Skinny Menu" this is a Berry Berry Nice Smoothie.

You thought I was joking about the Skinny Menu, didn't you! :)

Act now if you want to try out their Juice of the Week!

Shopping

Broadways Best Antiques
742 Broadway St, Tacoma WA
Connect on Facebook

Look at this amazing shabby chic country cabinet from the 1930s.
I would so buy this and put a chandelier in front of it.

Unique collectible 1920 or 1930s salesman's aid for curtain rods and hardware salesman.

I was frustrated that I couldn't get a good picture of this lamp because it is super cool. Its a Space Needle floor lamp created from repurposed lamp parts made by a local artist who wishes to remain nameless. I kept getting a reflection in the window but at least this was a cool reflection. I like the juxtaposition of a Seattle landmark being slightly obscured by a Tacoma one. Can you see Old City Hall?

Historic Tacoma rare porcelain Foss tug sign,
large glass Japanese float and reproduction Mark V diving helmet.

This sculpture was created by a local Native American artist named Stephan August. They don't JUST have antiques there. They also have art, custom made lamps and lots of other cool stuff. Its a remarkable store. You really should go there.

Have a cow! Very good condition cows skull. I think he likes you! :)

1940s Antique mahogany settee and chair.

Victorian Parlor floor lamp

This week 600 monkeyshines glass orbs were hidden throughout Tacoma in honor of the Chinese New Year. People are still scouring the town trying to find them. If you failed to find one and you feel an emptiness inside that only a glass ball can fill, you can always go old school and buy one of these Japanese floats at Broadway's Best Antiques.

Are you boared? hahaha Check out this boars head I found at Broadway's Best Antiques.
Doesn't he look like he's laughing? :) YOU'RE WELCOME!

Jewell Day Spa
2501 6th Ave, Tacoma, WA 98406
(253) 572-5224
http://www.jewellspa.com

Next week I'll tell you more about their services and show you even more picture but this week I want to give you a peek at the retail store in the lobby of the spa and some of the cool stuff I found in there.

I super-duper love this ring and all of its cute friends!

These flowers can be attached to your hair, your hats or even to your clothes.

Here's me modeling one of the flowers I got from Jewell. :)

If you failed to find one of the 600 monkeyshines glass balls hidden throughout Tacoma earlier this week you can still go buy one at Jewell Day Spa. These are by glass artist Michael Jewell. Happy Chinese New Year. Year of the Dragon! Raaaaaaaawrrrr! :)

253 Heart Necklace by my friend Linda Danforth.
The essential Tacoma fashion accessory.

These amazing glass flowers were created by local artist Deidre Perez Norris.
You can also see behind it that Jewell Day Spa has 253 Heart clothing and really cute scarves.

More information about Deidre's art

Services

Computer Hub
919 Pacific Ave, Tacoma WA

I pried my fingers away from my laptop long enough to take it in for a tune up at The Computer Hub on 10th & Pacific Ave yesterday. He did such a great job that I wanted to thank him by telling you guys about the store. They do Verizon phone service, they have phones for sale and they do PC, Mac, ipad and iphone repair. They also have various computers and accessories for sale. I saw a Mac for sale there for $499 and PC laptops from $199!!! And there are more mac's and pc's where those came from. Check these out:

Clara Spa

Membership at Clara is $25 a month and you get unlimited access to the steam room, gym, lounge and swimming pool as well as 20% off all services. Yesterday I snuck into the men's locker room to give you guys a look at what you could be enjoying. The men's locker room not only has its own Eucalyptus steam room but they also have a sauna and a lounge with a big screen TV and men's magazines. If I had a man and I needed to park him for a while so I could go shopping, I think this would make the perfect men's daycare center. Get him a massage, a haircut and then let him relax and watch TV in the lounge or go workout in the gym or just chill in the hot tub, steam room or sauna. Sounds pretty good, right? And the best thing is if you have a membership, you can add a second person for just $10 a month.

Clara Spa is inside the Courtyard Marriott Hotel and right next door
to Pacific Grill.

Lobby

Swimming pool and hot tub

Lobby

Men's lounge with leather furniture, waterfall coffee table, TV and men's magazines.

Men's products available inside the men's locker room

Poledello
715 Commerce Street, Tacoma, WA
http://www.poledello.com/

I wrote a glowing review this place in my Jan 13th blog so I'll quote their website this time. I couldn't agree more with this description and one day I hope I will be brave and take one of these classes:

Experience an EXHILARATING and highly challenging workout in a unique, intimate and supportive environment! Gain flexibility, build extreme strength and express yourself through music and movement! We believe that all women deserve to feel beautiful, sexy and empowered! Pole Dancing is a fun and effective workout and gives each of us permission to play and discover hidden talents and the super heroine within.
Come to Poledello for an extraordinary fitness experience!

Other projects related to downtown Tacoma

Tacoma Stories

http://tacomastories.com/

Camp 6

http://camp6tacoma.com/

South Sound Users Guide

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/83495061/south-sound-users-guide

News Tribune Article about South Sound Users Guide

Shift Happens Event this Monday Jan 30th

The whole Community is invited!

It is FREE to attend Shift Happens but there are also additional Sustainable Smart Lab workshops for just $10 per person between 1:00-4:00 pm. Please Register for each lab you would like to attend. CLICK HERE for more info.

Smart Lab 1:00-2:30 pm – Expanding Tacoma’s Entrepreneurial Potential
Smart Lab 2:30-3:00 pm – Unlocking Your Situated Advantage: the hidden wealth potential of body, place, and commons
Smart Lab 3:00-3:30 pm – Customer Acquisition Tool Box
Smart Lab 3:30-4:00 pm – Becoming a BEST Business

Free to the public:

4:00-5:45 pm Local Food and Beverage Extravaganza Happy Hour – FREE

20+ food vendors, cocktails and networking
4:00-4:45 Music by Heidi Stoermer
5:00-5:45 Music by Voxxy Vallejo (acoustic duo)

6:00-6:45 pm Shift Happens 2012 program – FREE

2011 Pledge Grand Prize Giveaway – Indie Awards – Mayoral State of the City Address

6:45-9:00 pm Local Vendor Showcase – FREE

Experience 100+ unique Local Independent Businesses, Non Pro fits and Artists + Desserts!

6:45-7:30 Music by Nick Sandy
7:45-8:30 Music by Shane Lance (lead singer of Roman Holiday)
To learn more visit:
http://tacomashifthappens.com/shift-2012/

Hope to see you there!

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

The shopping zone nobody ever told you about

2012-01-27T13:58:00.000-08:00

This week I'm sending you to A Street between 11th & 12th Streets to a secret shopping area that I bet no-one ever told you about. I live downtown and I didn't even realize how much great stuff there is to find on this block. In case you're having trouble placing the location, the downtown post office is directly across the street from these shops and the big Wells Fargo building is about a block away on one side and the 11th Street Bridge is directly on the other.

My goal for these blogs is to give you a reasonable daytime shopping trip where you can park in one place and see all these places at once. If you go back through the 12 Days of Shopping posts you will find each post is about a 2-3 hour shopping experience. If you did one of these trips every Saturday you'd have about 4 weeks worth of fun! Even *I* didn't realize how many cool things you can find downtown Tacoma!

My first stop was the little shop on the corner next to the 11th Street Murray Morgan Bridge. Unfortunately it was not open but I took some pictures through the window to give you some idea of what they carry.

Midcenturyville Vintage Home Furnishings
1101 A St., Ste. 1, Tacoma, WA
http://www.midcenturyville.com

253-777-2252

Give them a quick call to let them know you're coming
and they will open up for you: 253-777-2252

There are also more pictures of the items inside on the Midcenturyville Facebook page if you're interested.

Blue Dolfin Interiors
1101 A St. Suite 2, Tacoma WA
http://www.bluedolfininteriors.com/
253-627-6747

This is a cute little interior design shop with lots of pretty things you can purchase or custom order. She was in the middle of a home show at another location so I caught her when she had less on display than usual but I've passed by many times and admired the home decor items through the window. By the time you get there (after this weekend) I'm sure everything will be back. In the meantime, visit her website to see some of the amazing projects she has done: http://www.bluedolfininteriors.com/. She also does custom upholstery! She told me that she used to own a restaurant inside the Old City Hall building. I wish I could have seen that!

Minuteman Press
1111 A St., Tacoma WA
http://www.mmptacoma.com/
253-383-4377

I've always had the best customer service from this little print shop. I use them for all my small printing projects. The only thing they don't do is large posters. The best thing is, no job is too small for them and they never make you feel like your bothering them even when the job costs less than $1. There is a huge difference between how I feel working with Kinko's and working with Minuteman. I highly recommend this print shop.
Judging by the posters on the inside wall, a lot of my colleagues feel the same.

Watermark Gifts
1115 A Street, Tacoma WA
http://www.watermarkgifts.com/
253- 383-2041

This store took me completely by surprise! I somehow never noticed it before and when I went inside I was shocked at how large it is and how much variety and selection they have! You must visit this shop. I know you'll find things to love.

I don't know how I ever overlooked this pretty doorway.

This is from a flier I found at the front counter.

Now I know where to go when I need last minute wrapping paper!

They just stocked up on a lot of Valentines Day merchandise.

Love these leatherbound journals.

How amazing is this bracelet! I'd actually like to
see this as a necklace too. I might buy it and have my
jewelry designer friend put a longer chain on it.

This bracelet really catches the light and sparkles like crazy.
I'm sorry I couldn't capture that better in the photograph.

These heart shaped hanging decorations were also
pretty dazzling and sparkly

I love these yoga position frogs! How cute are they!

Another sparkly thing that caught my eye.

This necklace is actually twice as long as it appears here and very cool.

Cute steam-punk looking keys.

This cute little black chandelier was probably my
favorite thing I found in this store and it was very
reasonably priced.

I also felt like I needed these furry slippers. :)

Gayle Rieber Photography
1121 A Street Tacoma, Wa
http://gaylephoto.com/

The studio wasn't open when I came by but one of her neighbors spoke very highly of it. This is another one you should call before you come down: 253-627-5455.

Old West Fine Art

1123 A St, Tacoma WA

253-274-0445

I've been curious about this gallery for a while. It was closed when I came by there yesterday and the sign on the door says "by Appointment Only." I see this phenomenon as a symptom of the lack of foot traffic issues that plague certain sections of downtown Tacoma. Its one of the reasons I started this blog actually. From what I spied through the window, this place is worth making an appointment for. Give them a call and tell them The Duchess of Downtown sent you.

Sorry about the reflection, this is a peek inside through the window.

Another peek through the window

After shopping I headed over to the day spa I belong to. For more on that and a peek at some of the restaurants and other random shops I visited this week, check out this week's BONUS blog! Its chalked full of AWESOME!! Just think of it as PART 2 to this blog. :)

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

Snowman (snow sculpture) building contest today!

2012-01-18T13:05:00.000-08:00

Since we've been bestowed with the gift of snow, let's have some fun with this!

I'm issuing a challenge.

You have until 5 pm today to build a snowman (or snow sculpture) between 7th and 11th Streets on Broadway Street. At 5 pm, I (and any other judges I decide to recruit), will walk the length of the street taking photos of all the sculptures and taking feedback from my facebook friends to help us make our decision. Sculptors must be present or leave some sign with their name and contact info in order to win. The winner will be announced on my facebook page at 6 pm. They will receive a gift certificate to a local restaurant and the title: Best Snow Sculptor in the Universe of Tacoma.

OK people! The gauntlet has been thrown!!

I am prepared to be impressed. :)

If you need some inspiration, check out Tacoma KOMO's photo gallery:
http://www.komonews.com/news/local/Photos-snow-creatures-on-parade-137521618.html?tab=gallery&c=y&img=0

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

PS. please use common sense with placement of your sculpture like don't block anyone's doorway or put it where a snow plow is going to come along and creme it.

PSS. Some members of the press will be there too so if you are standing near your sculpture between 5 and 5:30 pm you might be able to pose with your sculpture and become super famous. Just sayin. :)

Friday Jan. 13th 2012

2012-01-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

The Villa Caffe & Imbibery

Wow, today is day the 13th and this is my first blog of 2012. Did you know this is a leap year? I'm planning to leap into all sorts of new adventures and I hope you click the "Join this site" button on the right side of this screen so that I can take you with me every step of the way.

This week I visited 10 very cool local businesses in downtown Tacoma: Broadway's Best Antiques, India Mahal Restaurant, Poledello Studio, Clara Spa, Box Top Vintage, Blitz & Co Florist, Signature Woodworks, The Computer Hub, Vinum Wine Bar and The Villa Cafe & Imbibery.

If you don't know this already, the reason I do this blog is because I feel that supporting our local independent businesses is the best thing I can do to help our local economy (because 75% of what you spend at a local business stays and circulates in our community and local businesses are responsible for creating more jobs than large corporations), to help our environment (the less shipping long distance we do, the less car and truck pollution we will have), to help our government (not giving money to corporations sends a message that we'd rather not have our government influenced by banks and corporations) and to help build community (because small business owners are an important part of any community and since I know most of them I can tell you that they are very good people who give a lot to non-profits and community events).

OK, let's go shopping, and if you visit these places, please tell them The Duchess of Downtown sent you.

Broadway's Best Antiques
742 Broadway St., Tacoma WA 98402
PH#253-617-3509
Click here to "Like" Broadway's Best Antiques on Facebook

How amazing is this little couch! I had a picture of this in one of my 12 Days of Shopping blogs and I can't believe no-one snatched it yet. This is a beautiful example of the kind of quality I found at Broadway's Best Antiques.

I don't know the exact moment when it started. Maybe it was when I was a kid and I watched Star Trek (the original one) with my parents. Maybe it was even earlier like when I was a small child watching Marvin the Martian, the Jetsons and other Saturday morning cartoons. All I know is I've always been a Sci-fi nerd and that's probably why these ray guns look to me like just about the coolest thing ever. One day I'm gonna have one of these that shoots actual rays. For now, before we can look to the future we gotta look to the past. Check out these collectible vintage ray guns from Broadway's Best Antiques. The collectible toy gun selection there is ginormous and very respectable from a collectors standpoint. In this picture: Hubley Automatic Disintegrator, Buck Rogers Automatic Pistol and a Chrome Plated Stratogun. All rare, all valuable and worth a visit to the store to see in person. Tell them the Duchess sent you.

I did a lot of walking on Wednesday and I rode 3 forms of public transportation. It was really cold out there despite the sunshine. I usually wear a hat but that day I didn't and my ears paid the price for it. When I got home, I was wishing I had one of these to curl up in front of. Check out this 1950s faux fireplace with built in electric heater. Wouldn't this be perfect for an apartment or house without a fireplace? You can buy this at Broadway's Best Antiques. Make sure you go check out their page and like it so you can see all the other awesome things they have.

I absolutely LOVE this UFO lamp from Broadway's Best Antiques. The owner tells me that this is one of many custom made lamps he has there. Also in this collection are two Space Needle floor lamps and these really awesome steam punk looking hanging light fixtures made from ceiling vents. See below for those. I was MAJORLY impressed and I know you will be too. Make sure to "like" Broadway's Best Antiques to see more pictures of cool home decor items.

Custom-made Space needle lamp. This is one of at least two I saw there.

Really amazing hanging light fixture created from air vents.
These would be so cool in a steampunk themed nightclub or restaurant.

This sleek retro set looks brand new and straight out of The Jetsons.

I love the simplicity of this couch. This would look good in a waiting room
or a bachelor pad. Can't you just picture a couple of guys playing video games on this?

I'll show you some more stuff from Broadway's Best Antiques next week. For now, make sure you click here to "Like" Broadway's Best Antiques on Facebook

India Mahal Restaurant

823 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402

PH# 253-272-5700

Click here to "Like" India Mahal on Facebook

Last Saturday I had Chicken Tikki Masala from the lunch buffet at India Mahal Restaurant and it was delicious! Please go there and try Sohan's amazing cooking and tell him The Duchess sent you!

I have a secret to tell you about India Mahal Restaurant. Whenever I don't feel good, like if I have a cold or flu thing going on, I get take out from India Mahal. I swear to you that food has healing properties. It works every time.

Poledello Dance Studio
715 Commerce Street, Tacoma, WA
PH#253-509-8811
http://www.poledello.com

On Monday I visited the new Poledello studio and watched an intermediate pole dancing lesson. It occurred to me that every male friend I have and quite a few female ones might envy me but I won't even go there. It demeans everything I learned that day. I have to tell you that there is a real misconception about this art-form. And yes, I use the word art-form very deliberately. I know you get a seedy visual when someone says pole dancing but its not like that at all. Its a lot more like Cirque de Solei than a strip bar. What I saw was tremendous strength training and just a sense of graceful power. Students spend quite a bit of time on the ground warming up and then go through a series of tricks that build strength and technique. Then they begin to practice a routine that it will take about 3 months to truly master. The class I saw consisted of students who had about one year of training so far. Instructor Noelle Wood tells me there is a Saturday class for more experienced dancers where they do more difficult and sometimes dangerous tricks and another class for aerial hoops and silks. She also said there is also a beginners class where women of all sizes and ages can try it but stay mostly on the ground.

Warming up

Building core strength

Hope you're not afraid of heights!

And one day, after a lot of hard work and training, you might be able to do this:

Is that not one of the most beautiful things you've ever seen??

Clara Spa Salon & Studios (formerly Club Biella inside Courtyard Marriott Hotel)

1506 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98402

PH#253-682-2005

Click here to like Clara Spa on Facebook

Meet Rosie. She's one of my favorite people in Tacoma. She gives ridiculously perfect manicures and pedicures and she's a really nice person. Here she is giving a manicure to my friend Kim:

Rosie has an amazing smile.

Here are my toes looking like perfect little red chicklets.

Check out this big fancy massage chair. It has heat and several different types of massage on a remote control.
There are 4 of these chairs there. You can't see it from this angle but the chair has a foot soak whirlpool in it. Its very luxurious. Sometimes I bring 3 friends and we all get pedicures together.

This is the couples massage room. In the back there is a big hot tub.

Here are some of the prices and specials. I recommend the membership.
I've been a member for almost 2 years now.

Box Top Vintage
907 Pacific Ave., Tacoma, WA 98402
PH# 253-304- 1874
Click here to Like Box Top Vintage on Facebook

I forgot to take a picture of her sign so I stole this photo from the Box Top Vintage Facebook page.

At Boxtop you will find lots of funky eclectic clothes. The owner, Jooley Heaps, is a notorious style maven.

You will also find lots of creations from local artists.

And other stuff like the adult size Tutu, which I for one completely approve of. It looks great with a tiara.

You'll also find cute home accessories.

And a faux tattoo for any occasion. YOU'RE WELCOME!

Jooley tells me that very soon she's going to carry kitchy little kitchen accessories. Stay tuned for pictures of that when she's all stocked up.

Blitz & Co Florist
909 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402
PH#253-572-2327
Click here to like Blitz & Co Florist on Facebook

I didn't expect to see baby clothes but they have a pretty good sized selection and it all looked super cute to me.

This one was my favorite. Wish they had my size.

Lots of upscale home decor items

They put out fresh flower bouquets daily and the store smells wonderful.

SIDE NOTE: I don't know why I'm always drawn to any chickens I see.
I almost went back to buy the taxidermy one at Goldie's on Broadway the other day.
I felt like I needed this wooden one too. I blame Beyonce and The Bloggess.

Signature Woodworks

911 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98402

PH#253-627-0805

Click here to "Like" Signature Woodworks on Facebook

Inside this store I saw beautiful cabinetry, fixtures and hardware. According to their facebook page they specialize in kitchen and bathroom design. They do custom cabinetry, countertops and tile. It also says that they have the largest selection of builders hardware in the South Sound area. This is one of two showrooms. They have another one in Gig Harbor.

They also have a lawyers office in their store. Maybe that's in case your contractor
tells you he is over budget and needing 6 more weeks to complete the job.
Could come in handy having a lawyer close by.

The Computer Hub
919 Pacific Ave, Tacoma WA 98402
PH#253-222-6541

You could say these are the new kids on the block. They've only been there a couple of months and they don't even have their website up yet. Even though they have a Verizon sign in their window and they do have a license to carry Verizon products and service, this is still a locally owned business that specializes in computer repair. They even fix cell phones and Apple products like Mac computers and iphones.

My friend Kevin wrote a blog about their arrival in Tacoma. Read it here.

Oh my gosh, I actually found a phone booth in downtown Tacoma on 10th & Pacific Ave and it still had a phone in it. I wasn't willing to touch it in order to see if it had a dial tone but just seeing it there seemed worth mentioning.

Vinum Wine Bar
1001 Pacific Avenue, Suite A, Tacoma, WA 98402
PH#253-779-9901
Click here to "Like" Vinum Wine Bar on Facebook.


I have been meaning to check out their open mic night but I haven't made it down there yet. I heard they have a lot of good musicians.

All day Happy Hour on Monday with $5 appetizers.
I'm putting that on my reoccurring calendar right now.

The Villa Caffe & Imbibery
1328 Market St., Tacoma, WA 98402
PH#253-222-4184
Click here to "Like" The Villa Caffe on Facebook.

The Villa is one of my favorite hang outs. Its also a favorite hang out for several Tacoma City Council members and other busy important types. Why? The food is great, the service is awesome and the owners are just some of the nicest people you'd ever want to meet. Also, if you think you're super smart, you might want to check out their Trivia Night on Thursdays at 8 pm. They give prizes and everything.

They have a drink at the Villa called the Mr. Tacoma. No word yet on whether or not they'll have a dessert called The Duchess.

Click here to "Like" The Villa Caffe and Imbibery on Facebook.You know you want to.

And that concludes this weeks blog. I hope you enjoyed it. I hope you tell your friends about it. I hope you visit all these cool places and tell them The Duchess sent you! And if you REALLY appreciate all this important shopping and dining research I've done for you, think about making a donation below:

XOXO,
Duchess of Downtown

Duchess of Downtown Tacoma

A few photos from around downtown

5 Fun Photos from Tacoma (Friday Feb. 24th 2012)

5 Fun Photos from Tacoma (Thurs Feb. 23rd 2012)

5 Fun Photos from Tacoma (Wed Feb. 22nd 2012)

5 Fun Photos from Tacoma (Tues Feb. 21st 2012)

Pacific Avenue

5 fun photos from Tacoma (Monday, Feb. 20th 2012)

Urban Detox $215Option 1 Choice of Herbal Body Wrap, a 60 minute Swedish Massage, and finished off with an Ultimate Pedi-Treatment.

Option 2 Choice of Vortex or Moor Mud, a 60 minute Swedish Aromatherapy Massage, and finished off with an Ultimate Pedi-Treatment.

Chasing pavements

A Tribute to Tacoma Public Works: a well grounded photo montage

Some pictures from February's ART BUS Tour

My weekly wanderings ...

5 awesome things found in Tacoma (Thursday Feb. 16th 2012)

5 awesome things found in Tacoma (Wed, Feb 15th 2012)

My magnificent collossal dreams

Last minute Valentine gift ideas + 5 awesome things found in Tacoma (Monday Feb. 13)

Five steps to better living (Friday Feb. 10th)

Five steps to better living (Thursday Feb 9th)

Five Steps to better living (Wed. Feb. 8th)

5 Tips for better living (Tuesday Feb. 7th)

Five steps to living the good life! (Monday Feb. 6th)

Feeling rebellious? I found motorcycle and other vintage-style jackets hanging around at Broadway's Best Antiques

Adventures of the Duchess (week of Jan. 30 to Feb. 3rd 2012)

My answer is YES

BONUS Blog - Snow pics, Food, Shopping , Services and COOL STUFF YOU SHOULD KNOW

4:00-5:45 pm Local Food and Beverage Extravaganza Happy Hour – FREE

6:00-6:45 pm Shift Happens 2012 program – FREE

6:45-9:00 pm Local Vendor Showcase – FREE

The shopping zone nobody ever told you about

Snowman (snow sculpture) building contest today!

Friday Jan. 13th 2012

Urban Detox $215
Option 1 Choice of Herbal Body Wrap, a 60 minute Swedish Massage, and finished off with an Ultimate Pedi-Treatment.