{Natural Selection PDX}

Since my visit to Portland last Fall, I always stay up with OMFG's branding projects.  They do a fantastic job at creating the vibe of restaurants through each and every detail and one of their latest jobs with Natural Selection is no less brilliant than the others.

Images

2011 List

Thanks to DesignLoveFest Bri Emery's Twitter, I found some motivation to create my own list for myself in 2011.  Not resolutions that will disappear by January 3rd...but real things to remember.  What's on your list?

How amazing is this B-Day dress? Fabulous (and seriously affordable) couture find from Modern Vintage in PDX. I would wear it everyday if I could

-You have stopped 'not living because of fear' and great things are happening because of it.  Don't let it get the best of you.

-If everything in the creative world was easy, everyone would be doing it. Don't let the little bumps take away your energy.

-Continue to evaluate things & fully communicate with everyone in your life.  Everything is a process, but you are doing great!

-Take the time to keep you check book balanced.  When it's not, your life is usually a little messy.  Organize, organize, organize.

-Always trust your gut.  It has your best interest in mind.

-Continue adding brightness, textures, sequins & other shiny pieces to your wardrobe (like that number above).  While you are at it, display it.  Always good for a little pick me up on a drab day.

-Don't let your laziness grab you...you know you are better than that!

-Budget wisely, but don't forget to spend on things for yourself...like a manicure, a lip color or some delicious treats from time to time, instead of a pair of shoes that you really don't need!

Portland Photo Diary: Pretty Little Details

Photos: Robin West

{Good Eats} Clyde Common

What I found fascinating about Portland was the creativity and heart that many restaurants and bars have put into the design/branding of their space.  It seemed that everywhere I went, I was more fascinated with taking in the atmosphere than reading the menu, and Clyde Common was no exception.  No surprise here, The Official Manufacturing Company-OMFGCO-were the masterminds behind the brand creation (as well as the adjacent Ace Hotel and Stumptown Coffee Roasters). 

Renee and I were able to make it for their Happy Hour menu, grabbing two seats at the large family style table in front of the kitchen.  Without hesitation, I ordered the 3 oz. hamburger sandwich with mouth-watering pickled onions.  What I wasn't sure about was what drink to order, that is, until the two women a few seats down from us got theirs and were able to give some neutral feedback on the handsome bartender's mixology.  I LOVE family style!  So, I went with the B.M.O.C. (bourbon, raw ginger syrup, Angostura and soda water).  It was like chewing into a ginger root and a little "knock your socks off" at first, but it definitely grew on me and gave me a much needed detox and refresh that I needed. 

{photo diary} Portland 2

Express trench (about 7 years old), borrowed plaid, Target riding leggings, vintage sunnies & Coach "Willis" tote, necklace purchased on Haight in SF

Day two started off with a more relaxing brunch a few blocks away from Renee's at the Everett Street Bistro.  I loved the quaint feeling right when we walked into this European-Style Charcuterie.  The details to the food and atmosphere (how amazing is the pepper shaker with the heart?!) were just divine.

After we filled our bellies, we spent the rest of the day vintage hunting in Southeast Hawthorne.  I don't think I will ever be the same walking into a vintage store again after spending about two hours in House of Vintage.  It was an endless maze of kitchy goodies and affordable treasures-wait til you see the British Couture sequined dress I picked up that is currently getting a new zipper! Then there was some more snacking at My Thai Bistro and a quick stop to Ron Toms for Spanish Tea before catching the $3 viewing of Inception at Laurelhurst Theatre.  And yes, all movie theatres should be equipped with pizza ovens, microbrews and wine.

Some unhappy customers at Ron Toms... 

Photos: Robin West

{photo diary} Portland 1

Right from the beginning, Saturday was a great adventure.  It all started with the trapping/escaping/flushing of a stink bug that ended with the couch, floor and myself bruised and soaked.  Once we composed ourselves, we hopped into our Zip car and drove to Stumptown Coffee at the Ace Hotel in downtown Portland, before heading to breakfast at the Screen Door.  Both had just the right conditions for a Saturday brunch.

 Why, thank you!

Next stop: Cannon Beach & Astoria to for our Goonie adventure.  Let's just put it this way...neither rain, nor wind, nor blowing sand (or the tide trying to take my bag out to sea) can stop us!! 

Kenneth Cole jacket, vintage cardigan & tote, Mossimo t-shirt, F21 skinnies & hat, Polo wellies

Photos: Robin West

Voodoo Doughnut

Right off the plane in Portland and after a joyful welcome, Renee took me directly to Voodoo Doughnut (Too).  It was raining and late, so I didn't do a full photo-op, but I did get the important shots-like my addictive Bacon Maple bar & Kenny G twirling around the display case playing some sweet tunes. 

♫ ♪♪  ♫ ♪♫ 

This may not look like something you would typically order (definitely while on a diet), but trust me, it was amazing.  I actually found myself craving one this morning.  Must...create....recipe...

Photos: Robin West