When I researched the opening of Bronze Optical before writing it up for the magazine some time ago, frankly, I was impressed by how passionate Bronze Quinton was. Not only does the certified Optician, offer a fine selection of eyeglass frames in various price ranges, but more importantly, he strives to provide his clients with superior professional fittings and service. Given that, when I couldn’t find a pair of glasses I found flattering, I decided to test the guy out by laying the problem of my own broad Irish face (complete with wide set eyes and a severe astigmatism) directly at his doorstep. That said, I guess you could consider this a testimonial. Because even though I’ve worn glasses since childhood and have been fitted for many during my years here and in Manhattan, I’ve never, EVER had anyone take as much time or care to make sure I experienced 100 % satisfaction. Over the course of two private appointments he expertly critiqued how the frames I’d chosen looked on my face, took precise measurements to ensure I achieved my best possible vision, patiently explained all the bells and whistles I could opt for, confirmed I was satisfied with the finished pair ( with 20/15 vision you bet I am) and he even set up a complimentary follow up visit to insure that I remained satisfied with how my glasses were performing. for me. Easy to see, this is why it pays to patronize independent retailers. 1568 N. Farwell, 414-221-7055, bronzeoptical.com.
Someone else I’ve written about in the magazine is Wanankee Pugh who runs Art By Design, a gallery shop featuring the custom paintings she creates in various mediums in a broad variety of techniques ranging from classical to contemporary. Busy as a bee since the shops opening, Pugh will finally host her Grand Opening Party on Friday June 20 between 7 and 10 pm. Potential clients, interior designers and the public at large are invited to meet and greet over wine and cheese and learn a bit more about the process of how the artist creates works of art to distinctly fit individual homes, personalities and lifestyles. To insure things “stay lively,” Pugh encourages all to bring along a funny joke or story along. 1017 E. Brady St., 226-0336, artbydesignshop.com.
At HERS, now through June 22, it’s all about the Susana Monaco Fall 08 Collection Trunk Show. Stop in, take a look and place your order from the popular designer’s latest collection featuring her signature supplex fabric, which looks great no matter how often pieces are worn or washed. Choose from great, simple silhouettes, inspired by the sophisticated glamour of the 1920’s and 30’s, all accented with charming details and rendered in beautiful colors. And making its much-anticipated return is Monaco’s great wardrobe staple, the ‘Perfect’ black trouser. For a hint of what you’ll find, visit susanamonaco.com. 309 N. Water St., (414) 273-HERS, hersfashion.com.
Another favorite collection of well-dressed women is Lafayette 148. So if you’ve got luncheons to attend, planes to hop, charity work to do, business meetings to run or social events to enjoy, you’d better not miss the Fall Winter 2008 Trunk Show taking place at the Mequon location of Faye’s June 19 – 22. It offers the perfect opportunity to see why women whose business is to look good, (women like Oprah and Meredith V.) are so often seen wearing pieces from the collection. Need help deciding what to order? New York Representative James Goodman will be on hand to direct you to pieces perfect for your lifestyle. While you’re shopping (in the Mequon or Brookfield locations) take advantage of the store’s Solstice Sale, which runs through June 23 and shaves 21 percent off all Spring/Summer items in the store. 1505 W. Mequon Rd., 262- 241-8386 & 18900 W. Bluemound Rd., 262) 432-0070, fayes123.com.
Ready to smile? Saturday June 21 between 1 and 2:30 pm Amy Ammen and her dancing Chihuahuas will be making an appearance at Metropawlis Pet Boutique & Bakery. Owner of Amiable Dog Training and co-author of Hip Ideas for your Hyper Dog, Amy and her wee ones will be doing training demonstrations, offering tips on how to both burn energy efficiently and calm dogs down plus lots more. Buy any of her books or DVD’s you’ll save 25 percent during the visit. 317 N. Broadway St., 414-273-7387, metropawlis.com.
Lose some stuff in the recent floods? Might be a good time to swing by Crate & Barrel during their Big Summer Sale. Especially if you’ve got a need for furniture since furniture floor samples, closeouts, one-of-a-kinds, warehouse scratch & dent sofas, dining sets, media cabinets, dressers … in short a little bit of everything are marked 30 – 50 percent off. Though the sale officially runs through the July 5, a little bird told me “best buy before everything gets picked over.” 2450 N Mayfair Rd., 414- 258-9500, crateandbarrel.com.
Word up on the new Sami Hayek Collection for Target – expect the young and extremely popular Mexican designer’s fresh updated take on home décor and office furniture to appear in stores this weekend at locations across the city and on target.com.
Known for cool cuts, color coupled with good conversation and a convenient downtown location Di Carlo Salon gets even more appealing as it runs a money saving Salon Special. While always open to walk-in appointments, if you book any salon service now through July 15, you’ll save 20 percent. Spend $20 or more and get free parking as well. 767 N. Water St., 414-765-1985, dicarlosalon.com.
A gas guzzling car cutting into your wine budget? Not to worry, Grapes & Grains is holding a Six for Sixty Tasting at 7 pm on June 23 ($15 per person). Not only will all wines sampled be priced under $10 a bottle, they’ll be worth drinking as well. And if rising gas costs are keeping you from heading out to Sheboygan to enjoy the British Pub fare of the town’s waterfront Dukes of Devon restaurant, you’re also in luck. Wednesday June 25, chef Don Jakubowski will be on hand to prepare menu samples to pair with a variety of beers and ales. Scheduled for 7 pm, it’ll only set you back $30 – far less than a tankful of gas. And just a reminder, in celebration of the store’s tenth anniversary, through June 27 every time you stop into the store you can sign up to win a free ¼ barrel of New Glarus Spotted Cow which is an $80 value (tapper and tub included at no extra cost). Be in attendance when the drawing takes place June 28 at 2 pm and you’ll also receive a free Wine Tasting for Two that would normally set you back $50. 11201 N. Port Washington Rd., 262-240-0206, grapesandgrains.com.
Heads up to up-to-date moms, dads, gramps and grams. Freckle Face is all keyed up for its July move to 244 N. Broadway. Definitely a more visible location, the change also means this fun, friendly store, devoted to offering kids a bit of style, will gain lots more room to expand. Expect to see a broader selection of eco-friendly cool stuff including baby strollers, furnishings and other fun stuff. Currently you can check them out at 407 E Buffalo St., 414- 298 -1488, frecklefaceboutique.com
