Momma's got a brand new bag

By Susan

Pocketbook, purse, diaper bag, suitcase...what's holding your junk? Currently, my junk is riding high in my Nest Diaper Bag.

I have the Mercer model in wine. Now before everyone starts sending me hate mail on how expensive this sucker is, let me talk first. It's listed for $385 (yes, ridiculous) but I found it cheaper online elsewhere for $300 and free shipping and no tax so the Nest Diaper Bag Man (Ken) let me have it for that. Just saying. Not all of the Nest Diaper Bags are quite that expensive.


I heart this bag and it loves me right back. It holds my sippy cups, snacks, dipes, wipes, makeup, hairbrush, Blackberry, bib, placemat, wallet, toys, keys, coupons, church envelopes, mail, checkbook, lunch for work days. Best of all, I carry it to the office!

Favorite Features of My New BFF:
(1) lining that unzips so you can throw in the wash
(2) 6 pockets inside - 2 for sippy cups (for Clay & Ella James), 1 for bottle of water (for moi), 1 for Blackberry, 2 for other stuff
(3) zippered inside pocket for makeup, Advil, gum, work badge
(4) roomy interior
(5) removable stroller strap plus 2 handles (although it might tip the stroller over b/c it's a beast)
(6) outside pocket with magnetic closure for coupons, to do list, etc.
(7) zippered compartment at bottom of bag for dipes, wipes, bib, diaper creme, placemat
(8) stylish details like brass "feet"as well as gorgeous suede and brass trim

I searched high and low for a bag that could work as a double agent (office worthy and high functioning diaper bag) because I'm too dumb to effortlessly switch between diaper bag and purse. After the 95th time I left my wallet or Blackberry or work badge in my diaper bag during the purse switcheroo process, something had to change.

I've gotten so many compliments on this bag - all from work people and non-Mommies who just like how it looks. They are floored when I proudly show them that it's a friggin' diaper bag. I can actually hear my husband rolling his eyes right now as I type. He's informed me that people compliment me on it because they think it's so ugly and obnoxious that they have to say something and they obviously aren't going to tell me they hate it. Whatever.

Now that we've covered the upside, let me cover the small downside - nothing but full disclosure here. I may need a chiropracter soon because this bag has it's own zipcode. It is a bit heavy (but not as heavy as my 25 lb 17 month old son so at least I'm balanced now - toddler on one hip and diaper bag on the other).

When it comes to pocketbooks, I'm firmly rooted in the "once-you-go-big, you-never-go-back" camp. I've finally found my true love! I may be addicted and must admit that I do want another one of these bags to add to the mix but I know that's the crazy talking. So for now, I'll just love the one I'm with!

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Fashion with a bump

By Guest Bloggers, Taylor Presson & Allison Bumgardner


When we started having babies five years ago, maternity fashion was just getting started. Today’s new mommies have even more amazing and affordable options than ever before. We spent several afternoons hunting the latest summer and fall fashion “must haves” for Charlotte’s most glamorous mothers to be. It is simply “Fashion with a bump.”

On our personal fashion blog, we took a survey of our readers to find out what was the one item our mommy friends could not live without. Beating out designer jeans and jersey tops was our personal favorite, the Yoga Pant. We were so excited to find the newest discovery, the “Everywhere Pant” from the makers of the Bella Band, Ingrid & Isabel. Ingrid & Isabel have outdone themselves. This pant can be worn over the belly for more support, under the belly or as a skirt that hits mid-waist. We love this option because it covers the ever expanding rear view. The “everywhere pant” retails for $88. Liz Lange for Target has one of our favorite maternity fold over waist yoga pants. Check locally or order online for $29.99. Available in black.

Mommies today are more concerned with living a healthy lifestyle and need more transitional clothes that will take them through their pregnancy and afterwards. Transitional clothes like low rise convertible cargos, tunics and leggings, cardigans with adjustable ties and empire waisted comfy t-shirts. At Destination Maternity, Allison scored a pair of awesome cargos for $29 in the Motherhood line. Layer with a heathered tee ($19.50) and a new cardigan ($34) and you have an outfit you can wear straight through fall. Old Navy Maternity has some super cute jersey wrap cardigans in gray and khaki( $22.50 online) that will take you through your whole pregnancy and after!

All this research led us to a whole new level of maternity denim knowledge. We learned that each designer makes their jeans in a different way. Need more support? Try Citizens of Humanity. Most of their jeans fit “over the belly.” Paige denim specializes in under belly styles and J-Brand has super-cool elastic inserts to stretch with your ever-expanding belly! Destination Maternity buys their denim of choice and adds their own “secret fit belly” bands. Check there for hip denim lines you can’t find anywhere else. Our favorite new style for fall are the super comfy “Jeggings” from Citizens of Humanity. These jeans/leggings will look great for fall with sweaters, long sleeve tees and tunics. You can pair them with mid calf boots and head out the door. We could write a whole article on the great maternity denim from Old Navy. They have “low rise” bootcut jean currently on sale at www.oldnavy.com for $19 or the “full panel” flared leg jeans for $30. Not so sure about “jeggings”, Old Navy has the cutest pair of skinny jeans for $12.97 online!!

The cooler days of fall are here and we couldn't be more excited about the trends that come with it! Keep your eyes out for must-haves like anything with pockets, plaid ruffle shirts, boat neck sweaters and shirts, bold colors and patterns and a refreshing hint of anything tie-died. Whatever the season, maternity clothes are a fun part of the most special times of our life. Why not feel and look great?!

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Smarty Alert: Here's What's In Store at Boutique of Couture!

By Katie M

In case you missed today's newsletter, let us fill you in on some spectacular sales happening now at Boutique of Couture. Just check out these recent promotions:

Buy an $18 shirt, choose a free scarf (one scarf per customer per day). Buy a dress, choose a shirt from the $12 rack for only $5. Buy a $9 necklace, choose an $8 pair of earrings for free. New items on the Clearance Rack for $10. End of the FANCY Wedding Summer Dresses for a steal, just $25 each!

Plus, Boutique of Couture will soon be receiving Miss Me Denim from the USA and Sawary Jeans from Brazil. All of last year’s denim on sale beginning at $29! Keep reading to get all the scoop!

New Fall fashions are arriving weekly, smarties! This fall is all about layering. Layer your scarfs, jewelry, leggings, sweaters, and don't forget your boots. After attending the Atlanta Apparel Mart, Boutique of Couture has ordered jeggings and leggings in different colors and styles. Good pair of leggings, jeggings, or jeans are a must for the Fall season.

Smell the fall air, and think SWEATER. In the next couple of weeks, Boutique of Couture will be getting the LONG Coat Sweaters. These sweaters start at $40 and can be worn as a jacket or a coat. Put on a long sleeve t-shirt, and one of these sweater coats and your are ready for the park, dinner, or the winery.


Boutique of Couture is a small boutique specializing is trendy apparel for the mom, the teenager, or a grandmother. The team of Hadley Reisig, Erica Sigley, and Maureen Wittmer are focused on giving personalized attention to our customers. They want each customer to only buy something if it looks good on the customer's figure. They are also happy to have people take items home and try them on with shoes and accesories. If an item does work, we refund or exchange within 4 weeks.

All the items in the store are resonably priced. Most fancy dresses start at $60. Casual dresses start at $35, and junior dresses start at $20.


Boutique of Couture also has new store hours:
Mon and Thurs: 10 to 6pm
Tues and Wed: 12 to 8pm for evening shopping
Friday: 10 to 8pm for evening shopping
Saturday: 10 to 6pm

Boutique of Couture also provides toddler entertainment in the back of the store. TV with the Jetsons, or even the water fountain sometimes is just enough diversion to keep little ones occupied while mom shops.

And don't forget to "Like" them on Facebook. You'll learn of these great promotions quicker than we can tell you!

So shop happy, and visit Boutique of Couture soon! These sales won't last long!

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Top 10 Things You Should Know About Consignment Sales

By Guest Blogger Chrissy F

Chrissy is the brains behind ConsignmentMommies.com, a fabulous consignment directory and social media resource for every shopper no matter your zip code. Chrissy is a mom who lives in Greensboro, and while her site features a ton of great Triad sales, you can also search other sales happening around the country. Be sure to check her site often to find the latest sales (many of which are ranked), and sign up for her newsletter to get alerts in advance! - KM

Repeat after me: Consignment Sales are not Garage Sales, Consignment Sales are not Garage Sales..." There's a lot of "misunderstanding" about consignment sales. Until you've been to a really good one, its hard to appreciate the full value in these sales. If you are one of those trendy moms who is skeptical of the whole consignment thing, here are a few things you should know...

1. You Won’t Be Wearing What EVERYONE Else is Wearing!
When my little one was “little” he wore the same ol’ Carter’s & Target outfits as every other child. I can recall several instances where we showed up to play groups or the library with Jack wearing the EXACT same outfit as another child. While not as stressful as say, showing up to prom in the same dress, I was quickly OVER the whole look-like-everyone-else thing. At consignment sales, you can see TONS of brands across several seasons and definitely won’t be wearing the same ol’ same ol’!

2. Boutique Items at Prices You CAN Afford
Boutique items can get very expensive and most of the time, they get worn very little. At consignment sales, you can pick up incredible boutique clothes at 30-90% off retail pricing.

3. New with Tags
Most folks don’t realize this, but there are always tons of brand new items with tags at consignment sales!

4. Volunteer to Get the Good Stuff
This is definitely the number one secret of the pros! The good stuff gets gone early in the sale. If you volunteer, you can shop the volunteer pre-sale at most sales and can get your hands on the best items first! If you go on the final days AND you are a picky mom, you'll be totally disappointed in the selection. Go early to get the good stuff!

5. Seasonal clothing that’s barely worn
Easter outfits, Christmas sweaters, Halloween costumes… all at incredible prices! Seasonal clothing is a steal at consignment sales and it’s usually in great condition because it gets barely any wear!

6. Vendors!
Most sales have incredible vendors – from smocked clothing and monogrammed items to fabulous accessories.

7. Bigger Wardrobe for a Fraction of the Cost
If you are like me, I LOVE to have options in the closet (ok, and I don’t keep up with the laundry so well either). Shopping at consignment sales has meant a much bigger wardrobe at a fraction of the cost. And… I do laundry less often. HaHa!

8. Get Your Shopping Fix without Driving All Over Town
I love shopping… LOVE IT! But now that I’m a mommy, I have much less time for it. Consignment sales help me get my fix without driving all over town. Where else can you find clothes & toys from hundreds of sellers all in one place?

9. Or, Better Yet, Some Sales are Worth the Drive
If you love boutique items, there are tons of new “boutique” only and high-end consignment sales that are popping up. Search your zip code and add the word “boutique” in the keyword search to find sales in your area.

10. It’s Cool (and Green) to Shop Consignment
More and more savvy moms are jumping on the consignment bandwagon because it’s such a practical and green approach. Americans throw away 68 pounds of clothing each year (according to www.Earth911.com). Doesn't that seem like a waste?

What are some of your favorite consignment sales around the Triad?

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Decorating, Design, & Fashion Finds!

By Rachel H

We love to help moms put some style into their lives! If you have yet to check out our Stylin Smarty Button, today is a reminder of what you are missing! If you are ready to remodel any part of your house and add some style, we highly recommend ICON Builders and Walkabout Tile. If you are looking to add some style to your wardrobe, we recommend Poshh Boutique and Boutique of Couture. And of course we can't forget to style our little ones! We recommend Buttons Boutique for all the latest trends for your Little Smarty!

Check out all of these places below and click their name or logo to visit the website!







Boutique of Couture
Our store is filled with items for the Mom and teenage daughter. We have designer clothing at unexpected prices ... starting at $12 for tops, and $22 for sundresses. We carry Jessica Simpson, London Times and Maggie London for a special occasion, or fun and flirty styles from T-Party and S-Twelve from South Florida for a casual look. As the store owner, Hadley Reisig, I like to help you find a dress that fits and flatters your figure - whether you are a nursing mom, or a mature 60 year old woman. Visit us at 4964 Country Club Lane, at the corner of Peacehaven & Country Club in Winston-Salem. (Shopping center across the street from Calvary Baptist) Hours are 10-6pm M to Sat, and Sunday 12-5pm. (336) 774-9106

AUGUST Special: Mink dresses (see black dress picture below) are still just $30! Any TSP reader who tries on a mink dress will get a free pair of earrings! Plus, mention Triad Smarty Pants and get $5 off your purchase.






Poshh Boutique
At Poshh boutique we believe that every woman is fabulous and should look and feel that way. We are your premier source for today's hottest fashion. Whether your style is trendy, bohemian, city chic, super sexy or classic, Poshh boutique has the look for you. Our brands include: Seven for All Mankind, Tulle, Cluce, Lani, Lush and many many more. We invite you to check out our collection of apparel and accessories, that is sure to make you a Poshh Lady. And being Poshh doesn't mean you have to break the bank. You will just look like it! We are located just a few miles off I-40, which makes us only twenty minutes from Winston, and very close to Greensboro as well! Palladium Commons 5870-105 Samet Dr. High Point, NC 27265
336-841-2009

TSP special: Mention Triad Smarty Pants and receive 20% off any one regular priced item!
















ICON Custom Builders
ICON specializes in transforming ordinary spaces into ones of beauty and functionality. With a passion for excellence, attention to detail, and integrity throughout the process, ICON creates spaces that bring excitement and compliment today’s lifestyle. We take pride in our reputation of focusing on client relationships and exceeding expectations. Owner Chuck Hicks is honored to be the 2010President of the Remodelers Council of the Winston-Salem HBA. Chuck is a Certified Green Professional, Aging-in-Place Specialist, and Lead Paint Renovator.
336-306-9055 (office)
cbhicks@iconcustombuilders.com









Walkabout Tile
Got a "makeover project" you have been dying to start? Does your kitchen or bath need a face lift? Come visit us at Walkabout Tile and let us help you get started. Stacy Lavery and Jill Sear provide you with free in house design consultation to make those mind boggling projects so much easier. We offer an assortment of custom tiles, handpainted sinks, recycled glass in mosaics and countertops, cork and bamboo flooring and many other jewels to enhance your home. Located at 1116 Hwy 801 North, Advance NC 27006. 336-998-2135

CONGRATS to Kathleen Kirk who won the FREE backsplash giveaway from Walkabout Tile!!!














Button's Boutique
Located in Winston-Salem, this children’s boutique is one not to miss. Buttons carries clothing for girls sizes newborn-12 and boys sizes newborn-7. A few favorite brands available at Buttons are Flap Happy, E.Land, Mollie & Millie, Mulberry St., and Robeez, just to name a few. If you are expecting, you are in luck because Buttons even offers a Baby Registry! There are plenty of accessories here as well such as bows, hats, frames, holiday items, etc. Custom monogramming and custom bows are available. Button's also offers white summer dresses and Christening gowns. Stop in at 5075 Country Club Road or call 774-9188.

AUGUST SPECIAL: Back To School - Giving Back to our Community, ending Aug. 31, 2010. For each school supply (appropriate for elementary-aged children) that you bring into Button's, you will earn $1 Button's Bucks. For example, if you bring in eight packs of crayons, you will earn 8 Button's Bucks to use in the store. Button's has partnered with Sunnyside Ministry. All school supply donations will be distributed in Forsyth County.

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Lil' Smarty Ear Piercing

By Jen P, Charlotte Smarty Pants

When to get your daughter's ears pierced can be a big decision for many parents. For some cultures, piercing a baby's ears is as natural as birth. For others, parents set a specific age, often times in the double digits. It's a personal choice. Since I'm not really that into body piercing (didn't get my ears pierced until my big sis and boyfriend dragged me into the piercing pagoda at age 16!), my only rule is that my daughter needs to be old enough to take care of it herself.

So Ansley is now 8 1/2 and has been nagging for a good year and a half. I decided to tie it around an incentive program for her to improve her grades. I'll do anything to get her math scores up! You can bet she delivered and then some! The very day her report card came out, conveniently on a Friday, she had already arranged for her entire entourage to accompany her to the mall that night for the big event. I have to say, I was quite impressed with her strategery. She naturally invited her b/f/f's but she made sure the one who had already gotten her ears pierced was top of the list. Brillz at such a young age!

Surprisingly, I hadn't done a lot of research on this. In fact, I had done none. Everyone I know who has gotten their ears pierced has gone to a Claire's Boutique. So we packed up the girls and decided to make it a pizza outing as well. SouthPark is the closest location to me and I just assumed you could walk on in. Normally you can, however this night, the ear piercing gun was broken. Are you kidding me? Isn't that their main source of revenue? My disappointed crew hopped back in the car and headed down to Carolina Place. Note to self: next time, call ahead! By this time, it was getting pretty late and the 'lil miss party planner herself was getting cold feet. We arrived at the 2nd Claire's location and I think this was a blessing in disguise. We were greeted by the store manager and assistant store manager, which made me feel like we were in expert hands, not just the evening high school help. The staff at Claire's was extremely professional about the entire process including liability waivers, parental consent, gloves, the whole shabang. They also dotted her ears with marker first to make sure the holes were even. Now it was time to rock and roll. And Ansley was definitely nervous and got out of the chair.

I certainly didn't want her to feel like she HAD to do this. This was 100% her doing. I stood back and watched the power of girlfriends kick in. The only thing I said to Ansley was "Sweetie, don't feel like you have to do this. Remember, this was your idea. The only thing I'll tell you that may help you make your decision is this. I'm not coming back ANY time soon for a do-over." That said, she reached for her friends' hands and squeezed tight. This is the coolest part. Her friend who already had pierced-ears coached her the rest of the way, while her other friend contemplating doing this sometime soon herself just listened in awe. Her friend gave her an example of the pressure by pinching the skin between her thumb and pointer finger. She told her it would hurt for a second and then it would stop. Right then I nodded to the managers and they simultaneously did both ears. That was another thing I did not even think about but was thankful for the expertise at Claire's. The managers sensed Ansley's apprehension and without even asking, stood by both ears at the same time. That was key in my opinion. My best friend's daughter in Florida was inspired by Ansley but her ear-piercing place did her ears one at a time. Well, sweet little Karlyn is walking around with only one daisy earring and feeling completely defeated. So make sure you request both ears at the same time.

I would highly recommend Claire's (found usually at malls). For a complete list of Claire's locations, click here. Our outing turned into a sleepover too since we didn't roll out of the pizza place until 9:30p. But it was a success. And Ansley couldn't be more proud. I did ask her if we had done one ear at a time, would she have agreed to the 2nd ear. Her answer: "no-way, hurt way too much!"

So Smarties, how did you decide whether or not to pierce your daughter's ears? What age do you think is appropriate? Where did you go - Claire's can't be the only place? We'd love to hear from you!

Don't forget to register for our August Giveaway! You could be one of five lucky readers who will win a $20 gift card to Boutique of Couture in Winston-Salem. Think new fall clothes!!! Just click here to take a short survey. You must be a TSP newsletter subscriber to win. This giveaway promotion will run through Noon on Friday, August 13. Winners will be immediately notified and announced on TSP a few days later. Good luck, Smarties!

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August Giveaway: Five Gift Cards to Boutique of Couture!

By Katie M

Ladies, you are going to flip! Remember how I blogged about my everyday "momiform" and how hard it can be to find good quality designer clothes at prices we can actually afford? Well, this is no longer a hardship because I recently discovered Boutique of Couture , and I can now pop in there anytime (literally so because I live around the corner) and find some of the most sought-after brands for a fraction of what I thought I would pay. The pieces you will find at this boutique - and the unexpected prices - will astound you. They carry styles for all shapes, and not just for skinnies. Seriously fashionistas, I think this store could quite possibly be one of the Triad's best kept secrets.

And now it's time for you to see what's in store at Boutique of Couture. This Smarty Sponsor is graciously offering five $20 gift cards to five very lucky TSP newsletter subscribers. And don't be fooled: You will be pleasantly surprised to see how far $20 will get you. On top of this, Boutique of Couture is offering $5 off to ANY reader who mentions Triad Smarty Pants at check-out, and a free pair of earrings to any reader who comes in and tries on one of their popular Mink Dresses (see black dress pic below.)

Keep reading to learn more about Boutique of Couture, and to enter this giveaway...


Let me tell you about my first shopping experience at Boutique of Couture. I was under deadline to find two dresses in one day. One dress was for a cocktail-attire rehearsal dinner, and the other was for a late afternoon wedding. I literally had 90 minutes to find these dresses before my husband headed to his next work meeting (he came home to watch the kids). Since Boutique of Couture is just down the street from me (and happens to be one of our Stylin' Smarty sponsors), I started there. Thirty minutes later, and less than $100 out of wallet (total!), I had my two dresses! I was thrilled (and I think my husband was even happier :)) I chose the a Mink dress and a classic London Times sleevless print dress - both of which received numerous compliments at the events I attended.


Before you register for this giveaway, here are some shopping tips on new arrivals at Boutique of Couture. Their new designer jeans are SAWARY from Brazil. They retail for $100, but Boutique of Couture has a special deal as the first North Carolina boutique to carry the Brazilian line. Their introductory price through December will be just $59 for these jeans!!! The come in a variety of styles and colors. The best thing about these jeans is that they lift and shape your backside like no other jeans.

And starting this first week of August, all designer jeans (except for SAWARY) will be on sale for $29, $50, or $99. Go now to get a great deal on high-end designer jeans for the fall!


Like I mentioned, Boutique of Couture also carries the New York labels of London Times and Maggy London, as well as the Jessica Simpson label. These dresses are great for work, church, and special occasions are priced from $60 to $89. Currently, in the store there is a wide selection of sleeveless London Times and Jessica Simpson dresses on sale for $45.

For everyday, Mink dresses are available in blue, fuchsia, peach, and black. These dresses are from Los Angeles, retail for $35, and are great to wash and wear and throw in a suitcase. Put a Mink dress on with flip-flops and go to the park, or add a necklace and heels and wear it to dinner. All Mink dresses are now on sale for $30until the end of August 2010.

For a more fun and flirty look, Boutique of Couture carries the label “Double Zero.” This label is also out of Los Angeles. These dresses are bold colors and patterns and range from $30 to $48. Looking for a great date night dress, a Double Zero dress is sure to get heads turning.


For T-shirts, Boutique of Couture carries the label LA Base out of Los Angeles. These shirts look great with capris, jeans, or skorts. Colorful patterns make these shirts stand out in a crowd. All La Base t-shirts are $18 dollars. During August, you can buy a shirt and get a free scarf (one scarf per customer per day)!

Boutique of Couture also has one-of-a-kind pieces from designers from around the world. In inventory this first week of August, Boutique of Couture has items from big names such as Juicy Couture, BCBG, Seven, Rock & Republic, Romeo & Juliet Couture, and Ed Hardy. All these items are marked at unexpected prices. All Ed Hardy and Juicy Couture is marked down to low, low prices.


Boutique of Couture has a great selection of costume jewelry too. Most necklaces are $9, and earrings are $8. Stop in through the end of August and get a free pair of earrings with a purchase of a necklace.

Unbelievable items. Incredible deals. Unheard of prices. You just have to go see yourself! Boutique of Couture is conveniently located at 4964 Country Club Road in Winston-Salem (in the Harris Teeter Shopping Plaza/Harper Hill Commons close to the Peacehaven Road intersection.) Boutique of Couture is also online and on Facebook. Become a fan of their Facebook page and you'll be one of the first to know about their amazing sales.


To register to win one of the five $20 gift cards, click here to take a short survey. You must be a TSP newsletter subscriber to win. This giveaway promotion will run through Noon on Friday, August 13. Winners will be immediately notified and announced on TSP a few days later. Good luck, Smarties!

And even if you are not a winner, be sure to stop in Boutique of Couture to take advantage of their incredible sales and receive $5 off just by mentioning TSP!

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Smarty Sponsor: The Beanstalk

By Amie Blanks, The Beanstalk

By far, the worst part of watching your little babies grow older is knowing that, at some point, you simply won’t be able to find clothes for them at consignment sales. Am I right? It’s enough to make any mom run into her room, slam the door and scream to your family that you are NEVER … COMING … OUT!

Well, like John Cusack holding up his boom box in “Say Anything,” The Beanstalk on Hawthorne Road is shouting about its sale specifically for children (child’s size 6 through juniors and young men’s). No longer will you have to push your way through aisles of strollers, high chairs and bouncy-springy-swingy seats and toys – only to be disappointed upon arrival at the clothing racks.

Sale dates are Friday, August 27, and Saturday, August 28 (perfect for back-to-school). Pre-Sale opens Thursday evening to Consignors and Volunteers.

I should know: as the mother of three rapidly growing girls, I’ve too often left my favorite sales feeling like my next stop should be the mall – where I’ll pay a lot more for a lot less.


Those same great deals you loved when they were babies and toddlers can now be found at The Beanstalk, 1315 S. Hawthorne Road. Winston-Salem, NC 27103. (Intersection of Hawthorne and Knollwood).

In addition to incredible deals on clothing, accessories and décor for big kids, tweens and teens, some exciting mompreneurs will be joining us at the sale. Be sure to say hello to Monkey Hooper, PB and J Photography and Litldesi9s.

So you know, consignors earn 70% of their items sold, must consign at least 15 items and pay a $10 fee for facility rental and advertising. Consigning Volunteers earn 75%. For more info and to register, please visit www.TheBeanStalkSale.com.


Register early as a Consignor or Volunteer and The Beanstalk will enter your name for the chance to win 100% Of your Items Sold or a 50% Off coupon for your purchases! Plus, for every person you refer, you’ll receive an additional entry into the contest.

Stop by The Beanstalk August 27th and 28th and, whether you come as a Consignor, Volunteer, Shopper or combination of all three, we’ll look forward to seeing you there!

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Smarty Tips to Preserve Your Summer Pedicure

By Jen P, Charlotte Smarty Pants

Summer pedicures have always been a treat for me. I never bother with manicures because they don't last, nor do I ever have the time to wait for them to dry. But I can whip on some flips and run out the door with a wet pedi, so those have always been my favorite pampering indulgence.

One trick I have learned is to apply oil on your cuticles everyday after you get out of the shower. The best nail oil is Solar Oil and it has almond oil in it so it smells extra yummy while keeping your skin hydrated. You can find Solar Oil at most beauty supply stores or nail salons. By keeping your toes well-hydrated (works just as well or better on your hands too!), your pedi will last twice as long. Plus, it just looks better.

Here are some other Smarty tips to make your pedis last...

Choose metallic colors as opposed to bright pinks and reds. For some reason, they don't fade in the sun. Also apply a clear top coat every so often to protect your polish. And I've heard that you can ask for a special "sunproof" clear coat while at salon.

You might also alternate getting a pedicure and then just a polish change next time. With a polish change, you usually get filing, oil and new polish all for only $10. You also save time by getting a polish change - 20 minutes and you're done as opposed to at least 45 minutes for a full pedi. Yes, I can do this on my own, but I never do as good of a job, I certainly don't have the entire color palette of OPI polish, and for some reason, mine never lasts as long.

Do you have tips to make your pedis last? Please share!

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