Singlelista Style: Fly Girl!

If you're planning to leave all of the drama of love unfulfilled in 2010 and move on to bigger and better fortunes in 2011, then our Singlelista Style expert, Mia Tucker has something just for you!

Don't go into the new year with old baggage, take these stylish travel must-haves into 2011.

Life's a trip, make it a fabulous one! 

Travelon Wheeled Underseat Carry-on with Back up Bag

Look stylish during your travels with this super shiny, super cute carry-on by Travelon. Not only is it small enough to fit under the seat in front of you, but it's also roomy enough for an extra outfit and a pair of stilettos just in case your luggage gets lost – hey, it happens!

In addition, it’s equipped with convenient side pockets and inside compartments to accommodate any singelista’s jewelry and accessories. Best of all, it also comes with a back up carry-on bag just in case you decide to pick up a few gifts for yourself !

$115.99 http://www.bagyou.com/

Marc by Marc Jacobs Jumble-embossed neoprend iPad case

iPads are all the rage and you’ll be ahead of the curve with this  embossed Marc by Marc Jacobs iPad case. Since the iPad doesn’t open or close, this luxe solution offers a great way to prevent anything from scratching its surface or damaging it while you travel. It’s currently available in a bright and cheerful pink. This fashionable accessory is sure to sell out quickly so grab one while you still can!

$40.00 http://www.net-a-porter.com/

CC Sky Blackberry/iPhone Case
 
As a traveling singlelista, there is so much to keep track of and the LAST thing you need is to lose your cell phone! Don’t worry – I have a very stylish solution! Behold, the tricked out, Italian leather CC Skye cell phone case with 18 karat gold spikes! Because we live in an ever-evolving digital universe, smartphones are a must-have for staying connected, and what better way to stylishly protect your iPhone or Blackberry while you travel? After all, how will you shop online for all those amazing holiday deals if your screen gets dirty or cracked???  One word of caution, this case may bring out the bad girl in you. Purchase at your own risk!

$125.00 http://www.shopkitson.com/


Kit Gloves in Red
 
I seriously can’t think of anything more annoying than having to remove your gloves just to switch to the next song on your mp3 playlist. Ugh! Thank your lucky stars that Kit thought of an uber-stylish solution to this utter inconvenience! Singlelistas, I present to you a brand new glove made with a special fabric which allows you to use all your touch screen devices while keeping your fingers perfectly warm and cozy! Can we say life saver!?!

 

$34.99 http://www.modcloth.com/

Marc by Marc Jacobs Leather Credit Card Holder

Allow the King of Cool, Marc Jacobs that is, to assist you in organizing your most important valuables. Slide your I.D., credit cards or business cards into this sleek leather credit card holder by Marc by Marc Jacobs. It’s durable, functional and it’s the perfect size to slip into that fabulous clutch handbag!

$78.00 http://www.couturezappos.com/

Madewell City Slouch Sweatpants

Travel in style in these french terry sweats by Madewell! Look cozy and chic with front pleats and a slim leg that makes these sweats versatile enough to wear with either flats or heels. Cleverly designed with an elastic waistband to squeeze in and hide all those post-holiday pounds, these no fuss, comfy pants are ideal for any  single girl on the move!

 $49.50 http://www.madewell.com/

ASOS Cropped Cardigan
Every smart singlelista knows that layering is a must during cold weather and when traveling, having the option of adding or removing clothing is very necessary! This cropped cardigan by ASOS is an adorable, modern take on the traditional cardigan sweater. It can be worn open or closed, layered over a sleeveless tank, blouse or even a turtleneck and for the price, it’s definitely a steal!

$31.03 http://www.asos.com/

Is stepping up your style game on your list of New Year's resolutions? Visit Mia at http://www.miatucker.com/ and find out more about getting your personal style on!

Wishing you a fabulous journey into 2011!!

Love life..every SINGLE moment of it!
-xoxo

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Every Single Penny: Post Holiday Savings

Sooo... about those 12 days of Christmas...yeah... That  didn't really happen the way I envisioned it. 

LOL!!

I had some unexpected holiday travel, which I honestly can't even pretend to be mad about!

Just look at it as another perk of  living the single life. You can go on last minute vacays without having to explain it to anyone, or apologize when you get back. 

OK... I'm pushing it.. I know!

Anyway, I hope your holidays were fab nonetheless. 
In the spirit of bye gones being bye gones, let's turn our attention away from Christmas past and towards the new year that awaits us!

2011 is going to be HUGE for you, for me, and for The Singles' Salon as a whole. We can feel it and we hope you're ready for it! We'll clue you in on some of the major changes coming in the year ahead as the time draws nearer, but for now we have some news that I'm sure that every one of you can use!

Our financial expert Cristina Briboneria of oXYGen Financial is here with some tips to get you out of the red from this year's holiday shopping frenzy. 

Grab your notebooks and your calculators ladies, we're heading into the new year financially fab!

Every Single Penny: After Holiday Savings Tips

Here are a few ways to save money during those after-Christmas sales leading into the New Year.


1. Consider doing your Christmas shopping for 2011 now.
I know you’ve seen the commercials – virtually every retailer is having a sale. I’ve found that most items are 30% to 50% off of their original price. If you spent, on average, $2,000 each year during the holiday season this strategy could save you up to $1,000. This includes gifts, greeting cards, wrapping paper, Christmas lights, etc.

2. If you’re thinking of getting a gym membership – don’t procrastinate, join this week.
After all, singlelistas need to stay in shape somehow, right?!

I’ve joined a few gyms in my day and have found that most will waive the initial set-up fees and offer major discounts on your monthly membership fee during this time of the year. Deal or no deal - make sure you read the fine print and are aware of any contracts or early termination fees. Another thing to consider when buying a gym membership is location, location, location. In order to take full advantage of your membership, be sure to find a gym that is near your job, home or a place you frequent often.

3. Lastly, go on vacation after the New Year.
As a jet-setting singlelista, you know that fab U.S. hot spots like Las Vegas, New York, and Miami typically have an increase in airfare and hotel rates around New Year’s Eve. If you can wait until the weekend after New Year’s you will see a 25-50% decrease in rates, not to mention more options.

Not in the mood for a delayed celebration this year? Consider booking early for your 2012 travel at websites such as www.farecast.com or www.lastminutetravel.com for some great deals.

Just another breathe easier® tip from Cristina Briboneria at oXYGen Financial, Inc.

OMG! How great was that?!?

*Swoon*

Want more information on how YOU can be more financially fabulous next year? Put getting your finances in order at the top of your 2011 resolutions and call Cristina today at 678-551-7955 for a complimentary consultation!



oXYGen Financial, Inc. Private CFO Cristina Briboneria is one of the foremost knowledgeable professionals in giving financial advice to the X and Y Generation.

CRISTINA BRIBONERIA IS SECURITIES LICENSED THROUGH INVESTACORP, INC. A REGISTERED BROKER/DEALER MEMBER FINRA, SIPC. ADVISORY SERVICES OFFERED THROUGH INVESTACORP ADVISORY SERVICES, INC. A SEC REGISTERED INVESTMENT ADVISORY FIRM.
--

Love life...every SINGLE moment of it!
-xoxo

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The Twelve Days of Chocolate

OK, so granted, I'm a little late and am therefore off by one day, but if it makes you feel any better I was out scoring an exclusive interview with an R&B Singlelista Sensation, that you all are going to DIE FOR! 

Now, I'm not going to tell you her name quiet yet, but if you've thought it's been a bit chilly these past few days, then you're already thinking in the right direction!

Now... back to the business at hand!

Ladies, we are officially within the Twelve Days of Christmas -cue live audience applause-, and I thought what better way to celebrate than to bring you our Twelve Must Haves of Christmas!  

-cue live, LOUD, audience applause-

Yes, singlelistas, we've got all kinds of luxe recommendations in store for you, but today I thought we'd kick off this celebration with a little something special to warm your soul!

Now everybody knows that I'm a BIG fan of holiday cheer! And by cheer, I mean spirits! And by spirits, I mean something served in a sugar rimmed martini glass! But during the holidays I have another bev of choice, one that's reminiscent of my childhood days and reflective of an innocence now lost.

Aww..moment of silence for simpler days gone by...

Ok..moment over!

#12 Haute Chocolate

Yes, my loves during the Christmas season, I'm all about the cocoa and so item #12 on our list is a Haute Chocolate Bar!

Here's how it works:

Begin with your favorite base of chocolate.  You can keep it classic by choosing a popular pre-packaged brand, such as Swiss Miss or Nestle, or you can opt for something a little more indulgent and begin with pure chocolate pieces from Godiva or Ghirardelli. It's one million percent up to you!

Next, set out as many types of  fun chocolate toppings and mix-ins as your little childhood heart can dream of (what, you thought mixers were only for adult bevs? Please!). Think marshmellows, candy canes, toffee crumbles, fruit zests, ice cream, liquors, and more. Your imagination is the limit!

Then, set out all of the cutesy coffee mugs you can find (bonus points for mugs that are over sized, or decorated in festive holiday themes or sassy girly-girl phrases!).

Finally, invite all of your girlfriends in out of the cold for an evening of haute cocoa and girl talk--- singlelista style!

Now, I don't want to tell you how to do your cocoa, but I have a few chic suggestions for Haute Chocolate offerings that might help heat up your girls night!

Peppermint White Hot Chocolate

Ingredients:


8 oz white chocolate, chopped


3 1/2 cups milk


6 hard peppermint candies, crushed fine


1/2 tsp peppermint extract


2/3 cup whipping cream


Preparation:


Beat chilled cream with crushed mints until stiff peaks form. Refrigerate for about an hour. Meanwhile, heat milk to a simmer, them mix in chocolate. Whisk until chocolate is melted and smooth. Add mint extract and stir through. Pour into mugs and top with minty whipped cream.


Grand Marnier Hot Chocolate

Ingredients:

1 cup half n' half


2 cups milk


1/2 cup orange juice


6 oz bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped


1/3 cup Grand Marnier


Preparation:


Heat half and half, milk, and orange juice until just boiling. In a mixing bowl, add about 2/3 cup of hot milk to the chocolate and whip smooth. Add the rest of the milk and whisk again. Simmer for around 2 minutes to reheat through. Add Grand Marnier and serve.


Spiced Hot Chocolate

 

Ingredients:


4 tablespoons cocoa powder, unsweetened


1/3 cup sugar


1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon


1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg


dash salt


1/2 cup hot water


3 1/2 cups milk

1 teaspoon vanilla


4 cinnamon sticks


Preparation:


In a medium saucepan, combine cocoa, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir in the water. Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat. Boil, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes. Gradually stir in milk and continue to heat until heated through, stirring frequently. Do not boil. Remove from heat and add vanilla. Serve in mugs with cinnamon sticks. Makes 4 servings.

Hot Chocolate Float

Ingredients:

2 envelopes hot cocoa mix


2 cups warm water

2 scoops vanilla ice cream

Preparation:

Make hot chocolate as you normally would. Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Serve in a mug with a chocolate dipped spoon for extra flair.
                                                                               --

Mmm... craving chocolate yet?

Feel free to take us up on these suggestions or  you and your girlfriends come up with some of your own.   The only must have ingredients are good girlfriends and frothy, melty chocolate.

With item #12 from out Twelve Must Haves of Christmas list, your holiday is sure to be off to a savory, steamy start!

Love life...every SINGLE moment of it!
-xoxo

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Single Celebs We Love: Taylor Swift

“Being single is wonderful and I love it. I don't ever have a morning where I wake up and say, ‘I really need to find a boyfriend today.’” (People Magazine)

At only a few days short of her 21st birthday, Taylor Swift seems to have life all figured out!

The chart topping pop star has made a lasting name for herself since her life changed drastically only a few years ago.


Taylor began singing karaoke at festivals and fairs but it was during a traffic-stopping performance at a local shopping mall, when Swift caught the eye (and ear!) of a talent manager. A few contracts and record deals later, Taylor has become a bona fide superstar!

 

The New York Times describes Swift as “one of pop’s finest songwriters, country’s foremost pragmatist and more in touch with her inner life than most adults.”


In an attempt to let fans in on the makings of her soul stirring croons, Taylor explains that “sometimes when things impact you so intensely, it takes writing a song to get over them.” (People Magazine)


A gifted storyteller, and an obvious rebel of the rule “Don’t kiss and tell," Taylor is well known for writing songs about her exes, present loves and crushes. (Industry insiders are all abuzz speculating that the track "Dear John" from her latest album is an open letter to ex-fling John Mayer!)

Talented, beautiful, and wildly successful, Ms. Swift seems to have it all. But don’t look for her to add "married" to that list anytime soon.


“I don't focus on pining away for love, because I'm focused on being happy with what's happening right now.” (Us Weekly)



And how could she not be when she is dominating the country music scene and brokering major business deals?


At the ripe age of 20, Grammy award winning Taylor has inked a deal with Elizabeth Arden to create a signature fragrance, signed on to be the newest face of CoverGirl, accepted her third trophy as the songwriter-artist of the year by the Nashville Songwriters Association International and was CMA’s youngest Entertainer of the Year in the organization’s history.

When Taylor isn’t racking up awards, she’s busy supporting her favorite charities including Children in Need, Red Cross, Wish Upon A Hero, Feeding America, Habitat for Humanity and Delete Online Predators.

And what did Taylor do to celebrate her 20th birthday? This singlelista gave back to the community-- in a BIG way!


The country superstar donated $250,000 to the U.S. education system to help fund school programs, buy books and pay teacher salaries on top of a $75,000 contribution to her high school for a new sound and lighting system.

“Something I wanted to do at the end of this amazing year and especially on my birthday was give back to something I really believe in, which is education,” she said. “The schools that I went to and the amazing people I got to learn from really turned me into who I am, and I wanted to give back.”(People Magazine)

Speaking of gifts, Taylor recently released her third album, Speak Now, which sold over one million copies in the first week alone!

Singlelistas, let’s put this into perspective.


The last artist to achieve this remarkable feat was Lil’ Wayne with Tha Carter III – back in 2008.

While indisputably, a stand out in her class, this singlelista is certainly not alone.

Rumor has it that Ms. Swift is seeing a certain Jake Gyllenhaal (Did you see him in “Love and Other Drugs??!!!” I’m beyond jealous!!!!) but I think she hits the nail on the head when she explains her philosophy on love.

“I don't think that love can possibly be easy all the time, in fact, most of the time it's going to be hard. I think it's important to try to find someone who's going to tell you, ‘This is worth it,’ when you're scared, and tell you, ‘I’m never leaving you,’ when you're doubting it. I think that's the most important thing.” (Parade magazine)


You sang it, Singlelista!

For more information about the singlelista currently known as Swift, visit http://www.taylorswift.com/.

Love life...every SINGLE moment of it!
-xoxo

- Megan Holley is a contributing writer to The Singles' Salon

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Notes from Down the Aisle: Holiday Edition

We at The Singles’ Salon know first hand that the holidays can be a difficult time for some singlelistas. So for any of you experiencing the singlelista blues, we thought now would be a great time for another installment of "Notes from Down the Aisle"- a preview of the other side of “I DO!”

Our mystery matronista is back with more exclusive insights from wifedom. Pay attention ladies, you just might discover that being married isn’t all mistletoe after all!

'We' instead of 'Me': Holiday Edition

Ahhhh, the holidays! There’s no better time of year.

You have vacation time and oh so many options. What will you do? Will you read that long anticipated book by the fire? Will you organize your closets? Maybe you’ll catch up with family and friends that you haven’t seen in a while. Maybe you’ll sit at your mother’s house and eat yourself into a comatose state. Maybe you’ll catch up on your favorite reality shows or movies that you haven’t seen on your TiVo or DVR. Maybe you will just take a fabulous trip to Europe.

Singlelistas, the options are limitless!

However, once you say “I Do”, your holiday plans are no longer entirely your own. If you thought you had too much to do during the holidays as a single woman; once you add the hubby, you can multiply your list by two (not including gifts).

Don’t get me wrong, it’s a wonderful feeling to be a part of a dynamic duo. However, truthfully speaking, when I first found out that I had to cancel my long awaited holiday spa visit complete with a peppermint facial scrub and gingerbread foot salts for one of his Christmas gatherings, my initial feeling was one of resentment.


I had so many questions.

When did he find out about the event anyway?

Whose function is it?

How does he even know these people?

Does he HAVE to go?

Hell, do I HAVE to go?

When it came down to it, none of the answers to these questions even mattered. What mattered is that these events were important to him and he wanted his wife to be there. PERIOD.


Well, either I could have continued to be resentful or I could choose to be happy about spending that special time of year with the man that I love. I chose to take the positive route, and had to take the following steps to come to terms with relinquishing some of my holiday time:


1. Be considerate. I know it’s difficult, but try to place yourself in your significant other’s shoes. I like to show up fashionably late with my husband on my arm at my events. So why should I feel that my husband feels any differently about being with me at his events?

2. Have an honest conversation with your significant other about their expectations for the holidays. Through trial and error, I’ve learned to start the holiday season by asking my husband what he plans to do for the season. This includes what events he wants to attend, what events he wants to host, what friends and family he wants to see, how much he plans to spend, what events we can go to solo, etc. From there, I give input about my plans. Then we compromise if there are any conflicts. (Trick: Unless your mate is more social than you, ask him what he plans to do first- 9 out of 10 times, he has 3 things compared to your 10. My hubby tends not to put up as much of a fuss if he thinks that his events got first preference.)


3. Communicate your intentions to your family and friends. Prior to me meeting my husband, my family was a neat little foursome and we spent all of our holidays cooking, eating, talking, watching movies, and just enjoying each other’s company. The first holiday that my husband and I were together, we spent half of the day with his family and the other half with mine. I felt so guilty because I felt that I destroyed our neat little foursome, by having a husband. It just wasn’t the same anymore. Weeks prior to the holiday, I sat down with my family and talked about my holiday plans so that we could devise a way to make it through the holiday without anyone feeling neglected. I also try to let my friends know if I have any conflicts early on, so that I can schedule other times to see them one-on-one if possible.

4. Prepare. Prepare. Prepare. You may attend several events in the same day, so be sure to dress to accommodate all of the events and do your shopping or preparing of dishes early. You keep a better attitude if you don’t allow the events to be overwhelming.

5. Make the best out of the situation. Happiness is a choice. You may not think you have much in common with your mate’s friends, family, and/ or co-workers, but you’re a renaissance woman. Your expansive knowledge allows you to relate to anyone from a CEO of a Fortune 500 company to a five-year-old child. If you just can’t bring yourself to enjoy the food, the surroundings, or the music after a while, and then go to number 6.

 6. Tag out. You and your significant other need to have a sign or code word for when either of you have had enough. If his family or co-workers get on his nerves after a while, it’s likely that they’ll get on yours much faster. Both of you have to agree that after the code is given that you are leaving- and soon.


7. Make time to do something that you want to do for yourself. The great thing about following tips 1-6, is that after all is said and done you can do what you want with your time. Sneak away on a Sunday after church (while he’s watching football) and get a holiday flavored drink at a local coffee shop and read your favorite book or magazine.

Being a matronista can be a fabulous thing! However, going from “me” to “we” during the holidays can be a trying process.

So for you all of you “MEs” out there, enjoy the freedom of the season, and have yourself a holly jolly holiday!

Love life…every SINGLE moment of it!
-XOXO

PS- Need more convincing that singlelista holidays are DEFINITELY worth celebrating? Check out THIS ARTICLE, written for The Singles’ Salon founding editor and recently published onBettyConfidential.com. Single bells, anyone?

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