Your guide to Philly's diverse creative scene, nightlife, music, food & more
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Philly 101 Video: Rakia Reynolds
As you may know, our friends at uwishunu.com launched a video series called Philly 101. They've been creating 101 videos with notable Philadelphians asking them what they wish people knew about the city.
Today's Philly 101 spotlight is with our very own Fashion Ambassador and Insider Rakia Reynolds! Uwishunu stepped into her boutique PR firm, Skai Blue Media, which is also the home of her soon-to-be-unveiled Skai Blue Show fashion showroom.
Watch the video to see what this fashionista wishes you knew about Philly.
Swag And Soul—Keven Parker-Style
As soon as we heard about the upgrades at Keven Parker’s properties, we knew we had to check it out. A fabulous blend of plush, luxurious décor and soulful vibes, the Keven Parker brand definitely knows how to step the game up. In fact, it’s more like a movement and it’s adding some swag to South Street. Keven Parker’s not just an innovative business man, “he’s a business, man!”
Now that we’re done with the intro, let us break it down for you.
Ms. Tootsie’s Restaurant Bar Lounge
First, we have to brag about the food. The new menu is to die for! If you thought Ms. Tootsie's had it goin’ on before, just wait until you taste what they’re cookin’ up now. Here’s what chef Terrance Clark hooked us up with:
Appetizers
Pulled-Pork Slider – Slow-roasted for 5 hours, and served with a 5-spice blend secret barbeque sauce
Soul Rolls – Spring rolls filled with a slammin’ combo of chicken, candied yams and cabbage, served with a side of honey/nutmeg/ranch dressing
Ms. Tootsie’s Pops – Chicken wing drumettes (shaped like a Tootsie Roll pop), served with a side of sweet and tangy sauce
Entrées
Lobster Mac & Cheese – Enough said!
Bourbon-Braised Short Rib – Braised for 3 hours, and served over sweet potato hash
Parmesan Bread Crusted Lamb Chops – Delicious!
Insider tip: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a glass of their famous Tropical Blend Iced Tea. Mmm!
Wait…we’re not done yet. It gets even better once you go up the staircase. The Sky Bar, R&B Room, Luxe Lounge and Velvet Room are all decked out to impress. There are flat screens on just about every floor, and each room has its own chic décor. One thing we definitely loved throughout the space were the photos taken by renowned photographer Whitney Thomas. And, we especially loved the shots of Carol Riddick, Kindred the Family Soul, Musiq Soulchild, Jeff Bradshaw, Floetry and India.Arie in the R&B Room.
Insider tip: When you’ve got a hot date, make sure you request to be seated in the Love Lounge. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner with your boo.
KDP Lifestyle
We fell in love with Ms. Tootsie’s, and now we’re head over heels about KDP Lifestyle. Philly is full of unique shops and boutiques, but this one’s got its own flare. The home store is full of vintage finds from picture frames to lamps to sofas, all hand-picked by Keven. And, you’ll never see the same item twice.
KDP Luxury Suites
In January of 2012, South Street will get a whole new look when the KDP Luxury Suites open up. Yes, Keven Parker and his team are putting the finishing touches on three lavish, extended stay suites right next door to Ms. Tootsie’s and KDP Lifestyle. As soon as we walked in to see the suites, we were ready to move in. One word—gorgeous!
Insider tip: These suites are strictly for the fabulous.
So, now that you’ve heard us rave about it, check it out for yourself. We know you’ll love the experience. Whether you're looking for the perfect spot for a night out with the girls, or just looking for some bangin' soul food, Ms. Tootsie's is always poppin'.
Ms. Tootsie's/KDP Lifestyle & Luxury Suites
1312 South Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147
http://www.kevenparker.net/
Hot Holiday Happenings In 2011
‘Tis the season to spread the L.O.V.E., see the sights and hit the ice. Whether you’re hype about hitting up the shops for fly gifts, warming up with your boo over some hot chocolate or checking out the light shows brightening up the city, Philly’s doin’ it big this holiday season. Need a few suggestions? We’ll hook you up with our top picks:
Shop ‘Til You Drop
1310 South Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147
Philly-based entrepreneur Keven Parker recently opened this innovative new home store and he’s certainly showing off his incredible sense of style. If you’re looking for some unique finds, you’ll definitely want to hit up this shop. And, when you spend $50 in KDP Lifestyle, you’ll be treated to a slammin’ soul food appetizer at Ms. Tootsie’s for FREE! The offer is good from December 12 through December 31, 2011.
Insider tip: Have you seen Keven’s fabulous new renovations at Ms. Tootsie’s? One word—breathtaking!
Christmas Village in Philadelphia
Through Saturday, December 24
Love Park (JFK Plaza)
1500 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Christmas Village returns to Love Park this year with tons of goodies. The shops are open until Saturday, December 24, so make sure you stroll through.
Monday, December 12 - Friday, December 16
Comcast Center
1701 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Looking for some festive stocking stuffers? The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (the geniuses behind the Philadelphia Flower Show) will have its very first Pop-Up Shop this year, and it will be full of floral-inspired gifts.
Monday, December 12
1625 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
For those of you who can’t seem to wrap it up right, make sure you stop by the Shops at Liberty Place to have your gifts beautifully wrapped for you. Proceeds will support the Ronald McDonald House.
Turn On The Lights
Macy’s Center City (Grand Court)
1300 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107
This annual phenomenon has been brightening up the holidays in Philly for more years than we can count. With a display of more than 100,000 LED lights, and the original sounds of the profound Wanamaker organ, it’s no wonder why this light show is a must-see every year. And, it’s free!
Insider tip: Don’t forget to take the kids to Dickens Village after the show. It’s tradition!
Comcast Center (Lobby)
1701 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA 19103
The Comcast Holiday Spectacular is back for its fourth year and it’ll definitely get you in the holiday spirit. In 15 minutes, prepare to be amazed with the incredible sights and sounds of the season, and scenes from The Nutcracker on the Comcast Experience Video Wall. They don’t call it a spectacular for nothin’!
1001 Longwood Road
Kennett Square, PA 19348
With over 400,000 twinkling lights and dazzling fountain shows, Longwood Gardens is always one of the most beautiful highlights of the season. From sparkling trees to starry snowflakes, it’s a sight you won’t want to miss.
Insider tip: Don’t worry about the weather. Longwood Gardens has 20 heated “rooms” to keep you warm.
Christmas Tree Lighting in Rittenhouse Square
Rittenhouse Square
18th and Walnut Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Rittenhouse Square is amazing all year round, but it really comes to life during the holidays. It transforms into the perfect winter wonderland as Philadelphia’s largest Christmas tree brightens up the park with 5,000 brilliant, multi-colored globes and lights.
Insider tip: While you’re in the Square, make sure you hit up the boutiques on Rittenhouse Row.
The Holidays at Franklin Square
6th and Race Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Prepare to be dazzled all-month long as Franklin Square lights up the strip with its Holiday Lighting Ceremony. It definitely sets the mood for the season—and a romantic date night, too.
Jams and Performances
Jazz with UArts
Saturday, December 10 & Saturday, December 17
12 – 1 p.m.
200 S. Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Jam during your lunch break as students from the University of the Arts take over The Bellevue Food Court. It’s a great way to mellow out after an intense shopping trip.
The Christmas On The Move Tour
Monday, December 12
8 p.m.
1400 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA 19147
If you’re in the mood for some inspirational sounds, then you’ll want to check out Christmas On The Move. Get a taste of Philly’s gospel music scene and hear the sweet sounds of up-and-comer Leah Smith.
Shout out: Congrats to Lyn Brown Music Group for putting together another great show!
Saturday, December 17 – Sunday, December 18
3 p.m. & 7 p.m.
The Kurtz Center of the Performing Arts
3000 W. School House Lane
Philadelphia, PA
The Eleone Dance Company tear up the stage this holiday season with their vibrant dance musical, Carols In Color. Based on Langston Hughes’ Black Nativity, this brilliant and passionate work will definitely lift your spirits.
The York Street Hustle Holiday Spectacular
Thursday, December 22
9 p.m.
3025 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
When The York Street Hustle hits the stage, they perform a selection of throwbacks that has the crowd groovin’ all night. The Philly-based ensemble is known for adding their own contemporary flavor to classics from artists such as the Temptations and Marvin Gaye. This time they’ll be thowing in some holiday tunes from Donny Hathaway, Stevie Wonder and more!
Woodmere Art Museum Friday Night Jazz
Fridays through December 23
6-8 p.m.
9201 Germantown Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19118
The Woodmere Art Museum will host weekly jazz concerts to liven up your Friday nights this holiday season. Make sure you check it out!
Outdoor Festivities
DJ Sessions at the RiverRink
Through March 4, 2012 (Fridays & Saturdays)
9 p.m. to midnight
Blue Cross RiverRink at Penn’s Landing
Chestnut St. & S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Festivities at the RiverRink are better than ever. Not only can you show off your skills on the ice, but you can jam on it, too. This year, glide across the ice while listening to some of your favorite beats by DJ Hollywood.
Insider tip: The Blue Cross RiverRink also provides skating lessons for all, and sled lessons for the disabled.
Horse & Carriage Ride
5th & Chestnut Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19106
This one’s for the lovers! Plan a day for you and your boo to take a Horse & Carriage ride around the city. Trust us, it’ll be unforgettable.
Kwanzaa
Cinema Sepia, Kwanzaa Edition: The Black Candle
Wednesday, December 28
3-4:30 p.m.
African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP)
701 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
The Black Candle, a documentary that brilliantly highlights the African American experience, kicks off the Kwanzaa celebration at AAMP. Narrated by the renowned poet Maya Angelou and directed by award-winning author and filmmaker M.K. Asante, Jr., this is an extraordinary must-see.
Saturday, December 31
12-3 p.m.
African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP)
701 Arch Street
Philadelphia PA 19106
If you’re looking to get your culture fix, AAMP has what you’re looking for. The museum will host a Kwanzaa celebration full festivities to celebrate African American culture. And, it’s free!
For an even bigger list of holiday festivities, make sure you check out our sister site, Visitphilly.com. Happy holidays!
Busybee 10th Anniversary Sale – December 1
If you’re looking for some fresh new digs to add swag to your pad, we have the perfect place. For the past 10 years, Busybee Homestore & Design Center has created fabulous designs that go with just about everything. Home décor, furniture, bridal registries—it’s definitely a one stop shop.
To celebrate their 10th anniversary, Busybee is offering 25% off your purchase all day on December 1. So, whether you’re looking for original gifts ideas for the holidays or just doing some well-deserved shopping for yourself, make sure you check out the goods.
Twitter: @busybeephilly
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Busybee-Design/102743035958
Black Friday Shopping In Philly
Take a break from overly crowded malls and do some local shopping in Philadelphia this Black Friday. Some of our favorite boutiques are having some serious Black Friday sales. And, Philly is making it a little easier for you to get your jump start on holiday shopping.
Insider fact: The term “Black Friday” originated right here in Philly.
Black Friday Shopping
819 N. 2nd Street
Their annual “Black on Black” sale is back for Black Friday. They’ll be offering 30% off anything black and 15% off everything else. Hot cider (spiked or not) will be served all weekend.
750 S. 4th Street
Look for two happenings at Bus Stop on Black Friday. Running all day long, the “Black on Black Sale” offers customers 20% off all Autumn/Winter “black” styles. That evening, from 5:30-9:00 p.m., take part in the latter event, a collaborative holiday shopping party with Three Sirens Boutique. Receive free styling tips and learn different ways to mix and match the same holiday fashions from party to party without looking like a rerun. Enjoy “Little Black Dress” wine and nibbles while you shop and swap styling suggestions.
1050 N. Hancock Street (Piazza at Schmidt's)
Suite 58
Unique, one of a kind, limited edition pieces. Jewelry and clothing from independent labels and affordable prices. On Black Friday, EA Effect is offering up to 50% off of Amaresinh, Heartless Revival, Pearl in Crown, Independent Flavor and other local and independent designers. Shop locally, far from mainstream and close to cool.
Smak Parlour
219 Market Street
Enjoy a champagne shopping spree and storewide sale, as everything from sequin tops, adorable gifts, accessories, little black dresses to jackets and more will be discounted. There will also be a Special Sample Sale, a $20 rack of one-of-a-kind pieces. Plus, get a beautiful silver or gold rose ring with purchase of $50 or more.
153 N. 3rd Street
Enjoy a 40% discount on all Isabel Marant, Wednesday through Saturday! (The store is closed Thanksgiving Day.)
Manayunk White Friday
Canal View Park (Main & Cresson Streets)
Manayunk celebrates “White Friday” with the city’s first Christmas Tree lighting, caroling, Santa Claus and an outdoor bridal gown show by Nicole Miller.
Black Friday Insider Tips & Sips
SEPTA's Santa Express
For the first time in the 21-year history of SEPTA’s Santa Express, Philadelphia-area families can arrive at the Gallery at Market East on Black Friday, not just in style, but for free, thanks to Constellation Energy. On Santa Express trains, Santa’s helpers will spread goodwill by passing out goodie bags to children. The trains will be full of onboard fun, including magicians, face painters, costumed characters and, of course, Santa and the Mrs. Claus.
120 S. 17th Street
Take a shopping break on Black Friday with a special happy hour, noon - 7:00 p.m. including great cocktail, wine and beer specials.
121 S. 17th Street
From 5:00 - 7:00 p.m., you’re definitely going to need to take a load off from a day of hardcore shopping. Enjoy $7 signature cocktails, $5 wine(s) of the day and half-priced bar bites.
For more shopping spots and tips, check out uwishunu's post.
The 19 Most Fashionable Women In Philly
We were on the scene at the 2nd Annual XIX Most Fashionable Women in Philadelphia event that happened this week as part of the Philadelphia Collection. The event was presented by fashionista and world renowned designer Nicole Miller and owner of the Bellevue's Nicole Miller boutique Mary K. Dougherty. And, our own Rakia Reynolds was one of the ladies honored!
Check out who the 19 women are that keep Philly looking fabulous!
Lisa Nutter, wife of Mayor Nutter
Lauren Pronger, wife of Philadelphia Flyer Chris Pronger
Karen Dougherty Buchholz, Comcast VP
Bhavna Shyamalan, psychologist and wife of director M. Night Shyamalan
Nicole Cashman, Cashman & Associates
Joan and Ellen Shepp, owners of Joan Shepp
Norinda Brown, Brown Betty Dessert Boutique
Beka Rendell, daughter-in-law of former governor Ed Rendell
Nydia Han, Action News 6 anchor
Risa Vetri Ferman, district attorney of Montgomery County
Sharon Quick, Rotary Club of Philadelphia
Rakia Reynolds, Skai Blue Media and Philly 360 Insider and Ambassador
Tina Wells, Buzz Marketing Group
Sabrina Tamburino Thorne, GPTMC and wife of auto-parts magnate Steve Thorne
Dr. DaCarla Albright, Penn Medicine
Lilliana Vazquez, fashion blogger
Holly Kinser, Wojdak & Associates
Alana Tosti, Philadelphia Wedding
Randee Janiszewski, Janiszewski Insurance Agency
Salons In Philly
One of the most make-or-break-a-look accessories you can have is your hair, and in Philly, we make sure that we look good from hair to toe. Philly salons take natural beauties, relaxed divas and ladies with locks to the next level of hair heaven.
Here's a listing of some of our top Philly salon picks. And, make sure you check out our Trends In Tresses videos below to see where to go to become a naturalista, straightenista and extensionista.
Rittenhouse
- Honey Dew Beauty Lounge
- 2116 Walnut Street
- This day spa offers hair and skin services of all sorts, including hair masks, which are custom-blended on the premises.
- Panache Hair Design
- 205 S. 15th Street
- Creating sophisticated and stylish hair designs for more than 20 years, Panache stylists service all hair types and textures.
- Siaani Salon
- 2032 Chestnut Street
- One of Philadelphia’s top hair studios, this Rittenhouse Square salon boasts a team of stylists versed in all sorts of hair textures.
Old City
- Hush Salon
- 45 N. 3rd Street
- 2nd Floor
- Winner of Philadelphia magazine’s Best of Philly award two years in a row, Hush in historic Old City is intimate and casual. The haircare specialists work on both men and women, and they participate in New York City Fashion Week events and have been featured in magazines such as Allure and Elle.
Fairmount
- Salon Vixxen
- 1500 Fairmount Avenue
- Focusing on natural hair, Salon Vixxen helps clients manage all different kinds of curly coifs
- Shear Excellence
- 2019 Fairmount Avenue
- Stylists here create individuality for savvy women that like to make a statement.
Northern Liberties
- De'ultimate Hair Bar
- 5 West Girard Avenue
- This is one of our Fashion Insider's picks for where to go if you're looking for some added length to your locks.
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Salon Tenshi
537 N. 10th Street
This is one of our Fashion Insider's picks for where to go if you're looking to become a straightenista.
Beyond Center City
- Au Naturale
- 6755 Germantown Avenue
- Specializing in natural hair, styling and education, this 10-year-old salon in the Germantown neighborhood is the go-to spot for Philadelphia professionals and local celebs.
- Bounc’n and Behaving Hair Studio
- 5535 Market Street
- Healthy hair is the focus at West Philadelphia’s Bounc’n and Behaving, where stylists use treatments and conditioners that hydrate, moisturize and reconstruct damaged locks. The salon is also a certified user of Gro Protect, which protects natural hair from glue while helping it to grow.
- Duafe Holistic Hair
- 3502 Scotts Lane, Unit #29
- (Inside Sherman Mills Art Studios)
- A favorite of Jill Scott, Tye Tribbett and FOX 29 television personalities, Duafe in the East Falls section of Philadelphia specializes in natural hair care with services that include locs, twists, coils and transitional hair styles. Duafe also offers products that meet the needs of natural hair styles. , (267) 297-7636,
- Emerald Cutz
- 2036 Fairmount Avenue
- This is one of our Fashion Insider's picks for where to go if you're looking for extensions.
- Ryan Foster Hair Salon Inc.
- 1517 W. Girard Avenue
- Specializing in natural hair care, Ryan Foster near Temple University offers chemical-free hair styling alternatives without compromising a great look.
- Salon l’Etoile & Spa
- 4360 Main Street
- Philadelphia magazine named this Manayunk neighborhood spot a Best of Philly in 2009 for sports massage. “L’etoile” means “star” in French, and the salon treats clients to a VIP experience. In addition to a full array of hair services, l’Etoile provides manicures/pedicures, waxing, threading, reflexology and rain drop therapy.
Trends In Tresses
Our fashion insider Rakia Reynolds talked to some of the city's hottest stylists about texture, tresses and more. Watch the videos to see how to be a Naturalista, Straightenista and Extensionista - Philly 360 style.
On The Reel: Video - Summer Makeovers With Fashionista Rakia Reynolds
On The Reel:
Summer Makeovers With Fashionista Rakia Reynolds
Attention fashion fanatics looking for the hottest summer looks! Philly 360 Fashion Insider Rakia was spotted giving a few ladies some fresh summer makeovers.
Rakia took them all over Philly for their makeovers, including Salon Tenshi, Tenshi Beauty Bar, Shanu Designs, Bus Stop Boutique, Lost + Found, Third Street Habit and Franklin Square Boutique.
Watch all three segments to see the style transformations.
Jill Scott’s Philly Picks
Jill Scott’s Philly Picks
You can find just about anything in Philly, and Jill Scott knows all about it. She may be a mega-hot soulstar but she still has lots of love for her hometown. From hot hair dos to fabulous facials, she has the scoop on who does it best.
The Philadelphia Daily News caught up with Jill while she was in town to talk about some of her favorite hot spots. In fact, we learned a thing or two.
Jill Scott’s Hot Spots:
Fly Dos
3502 Scotts Lane
Philadelphia, PA 19129
Insider fact: This salon is owned by Philly 360˚ Creative Ambassador Syreeta Scott!
A Fabulous Face
Call (215) 715-2640
Best Party Space
4700 Wissahickon Avenue
Accessory Necessities
62 North 3rd Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Something Hot
Café Ole
147 North 3rd Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
R&R
To view the full article, visit the Philadelphia Daily News website.
Vintage Sportswear Company Mitchell & Ness Opens Shop-in-Shop at Sneaker Boutique UBIQ
Vintage Sportswear Company Mitchell & Ness Opens Shop-in-Shop at Sneaker Boutique UBIQ
Attention sneaker heads and vintage sportswear obsessed!
The Mitchell & Ness Nostalgia Co. has been busy lately. Just after the opening their flagship store, the iconic company has opened a shop-in-shop on the second floor of the sneaker and street wear boutique UBIQ.
Mitchell & Ness is a leader in authentic, vintage sports apparel. In the shop-in-shop, Mitchell & Ness will expand their already selection of fashion-forward vintage throwback apparel, plus exclusive UBIQ and Mitchell & Ness collaboration pieces coming soon.
Mitchell & Ness Opening: Philly 360 Exclusive Invite
Philly 360 loves to hook you up! The first 10 fans to RSVP get to go (with one guest) to the official opening party on Friday, January 21, at UBIQ. Philly 360 will be in the house for sure with Creative Ambassador Rich Medina who will be DJing, and guests like ambassadors The Roots and King Britt. RVSP soon to with the subject line Mitchell & Ness RSVP via Philly 360.
Opening details:
January 21, 2011
7:00 - 10:00 p.m.
1509 Walnut Street
RSVP only -- see above
Shop details:
Shop is open now
1509 Walnut Street
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- Philly360: RT @uwishunu: 56 Hour Celebration: @The_Barnes is celebrating its opening with 56 hours of free access & activities this weekend: ht ...
- Posted May 24, 2012 5:12PM
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- Philly360: Video: Will Smith on the set of MIB3 http://t.co/xKfxl1h5
- Posted May 24, 2012 5:10PM
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- Philly360: Planning a family trip to Philly? Check out @MommyFactor's list of attractions: @TheFranklin @aampmuseum @phillyzoo http://t.co/HIQocJ31
- Posted May 24, 2012 4:54PM
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- Philly360: Enjoying lunch with @mommyfactor and @KyleenTheDiva at City Tavern!
- Posted May 24, 2012 1:37PM
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- Philly360: Have you toured the @muralarts African-American Iconic Images Collections? http://t.co/SNzJNo0g #withartphl
- Posted May 23, 2012 5:16PM
