It's tough finding free time for your favorite girls, but brunch can become boring. Ladies, it's time to throw a twist into Girl Time! Check below for Guac and Glamour, my girly take on two classic outings.

Rock the Guac Cooking Party
Rosa Mexicano - Atlantic Station
Call for details: 404-347-4090

Forget margaritas and manis! Homemade guacamole is the fresh way top add a little spice to Mexican night with your ladies! Host a Rock the Guac party and invite your sauciest friends to compete in a one-hour competition. These parties can either accompany a lunch or dinner date, or you can Rock the Guac after drinks.

Rosa Mexicano also offers complimentary cooking classes with each new menu addition. Chefs Christian Plotcyzk and David Suarez have hands-on demos where class members help construct the latest creation.

Sleuth Secret: In honor of Dia de los Muertos, November's demo dishes are:
a. Callos de Hacha con pipián verde - Sea scallops with pumpkin seed pipián
b. Galletas y Leche de Arroz - Mexican cookies & milk

To sign up for the demos, call 404.347.4090. Afterwards, be sure to stick around and try some of the items you helped prepare, and don't forget to wash it down with the famed Pomegranate Margarita!

Jedal Italian Fashion
Phipps Plaza

Take your girls to Jedal and spend the day crossing one another off your Christmas list. This chic shop offers exclusive styles for men as well as women by 15 imported designers.

Insider info: To tantalize you, I've gotten co-owner Jennifer Dainelli to share her favorite Fall finds: "For women, I absolutely love this electric blue, suede boot, by Massimo Dogana!" I quite agree - the fact that it's studded with Swarovski Crystals makes it a great alternative for your girl's night outfit in the chilly weather. "My favorite from our men's collection is the Gianni Barbato brown leather boot." This is a handsome take on comfy dress shoes, and I personally adore the detailing.

Okay, so shoe shopping isn't exactly breaking news. However, these purveyors of fine Italian shoes and accessories are helping you "find your sole-mate" by offering a 25% discount on all new Fall merchandise! Just mention this "Boutique Blondie" blog at in-store checkout.

Fashion's Night Out - Atlanta
September 10
7 p.m. ‘til the last shopper drops!
Retailers City-Wide

Originally created in 2009 to boost NYC's retail revenue, Fashion's Night Out has morphed into a global phenomenon. Major fashion centers world-wide have joined forces with VOGUE Magazine to throw a mass-capacity event honoring fashion and design.

Great news for boutiques and large retailers alike, VOGUE has officially sanctioned Atlanta as a major player in the fashion scene. On September 10, come share your style secrets and celebrate Atlanta's best stores and designers! Shops city-wide will stay late, host cocktail events and spin rockin' shopping tunes. (Of course, each will have knowledgeable staff on-hand to help make the most of your Fall wardrobe budget.) Rumor has it ping-pong and Wii Rockband tournaments abound, while many stores will offer tasty treats from The Atlanta Cupcake Factory and other local shops.

In addition to the fabulous finds at Phipps Plaza and Lenox, be sure to stop into the neighborhood boutiques. A few suggestions include fab'rik's multiple locations and Bilthouse in Roswell, as well as my Va-Hi faves such as Meringue, Mitzi & Romano and Veronica's Attic.

Sleuth Secrets: Check out these enticing incentives from a few more of my favorite stores!
Boogaloos, OH LA LA Fashion Boutique and Sandpiper are each offering stellar steals and tantalizing trunk shows. (Designers include French Connection, Mike Gonzalez and Atlanta's own Kalypso Blue, plus many more.)
Saks at Phipps Plaza is offering fab makeovers using your favorite cosmetics line, plus glam photo sessions styled and shot by SCAD students!

Be sure to keep an eye out for Facebook updates - you could nab an exclusive gift or giveaway from your favorite store.

All-day playtime aside, back-to-school shopping was my favorite part of Summer. The thrill of painstakingly putting together my First Day Outfit was all it took get this Boutique Blondie up and about! Unfortunately, as trends become more casual and dress codes more strict, striking the perfect balance between kid-friendly but still school-appropriate apparel has become, if not nightmarish, then certainly a chore. To help alleviate some of that stress, visit my go-to shops for back-to-school styles sure to impress both friends and faculty.

Kindergarten and Elementary
Bella & Beau
Self-termed "designer consignor", this shop has quality, "like new" clothing and accessories just for kids. Offering a range of options from newborn through a size 12, this is a great place to nab that trendy piece when you just can't justify full price.

McCall Wilder Designs Atlanta
Designed and produced exclusively in Atlanta, this shop boasts "couture clothing for children". The sophisticated, simple designs accent your child's shining personality. For anyone in need of quality uniform staples, this is a sure hit.

Middle School
Gretchen's
Clothing kids in style since 1952, you'll find pieces that work as well as play. Check out Gretchen's Big Kids section for girls sizes 7-16 and boys sizes 8-16. In addition to quality fabrics, this section offers styles in wide array of patterns and silhouettes that are a bit more mature, while remaining energetic and kid-friendly.

Crazy 8
Although it's a bit of a drive up to Kennesaw, you won't be disappointed. It's the perfect spot for jeans, woven and casual pieces at can't-beat prices. Plus, everything size 4-14 is on sale, in addition to a 25% discount on backpacks and uniform staples.

High School
fab'rik
An excellent shop filled with adorable tanks and tops that toe the dress code line. The jeans are also a great find - high quality and on-trend styling. Bonus points for online shoppers: all jeans are 50% off and Summer styles are up to 75% off.

Stefan's Vintage
Definitely not a shop for everyone, but a must if you're searching for a uniquely you piece. You'll find a fabulous selection of men's and women's fashions from every era of the 20^th century, plus timeless accessories to perk up old standby staples.

DrewLewis
This self-named "Midtown emporium" offers the hottest guy's fashions, from footwear and accessories to chic clothing. Featuring famous labels as well as little-known marvels, this is a go-to spot for trendy gents.

Insider info: While it's such sad news that Georgia won't be participating in the Tax-Free Holiday this year, (the shopping lists of Boutique Blondie have shriveled in response,) a few retailers are offering their own respites. The Tanger Outlets (with two locations just outside the perimeter) are offering 10% off your entire purchase from July 29 ‘til August 1. Back-to-school staples, designer labels and a 10% discount? Yes, please!

shopSCAD, Atlanta
student art gallery-shop
Monday-Friday 10a.m. - 6p.m.

If you aren't familiar with SCAD Atlanta (our city's branch of the Savannah College of Art and Design), here's a little background. For 32 years this flagship of the creative world has molded some of today's finest contemporary artists. Cultivating fine arts talents from around the world, SCAD students hone traditional skills such as painting and bookmaking as well as the fun, funky practices of textile and communication arts. How lucky then to have shopSCAD, a little shop of wonders, right in our own backyard!

shopSCAD is Atlanta's "artistic lifestyle boutique" filled with wares by student artists. Located uptown on Peachtree Street, this art gallery-shop gives locals first dibs on hand-crafted housewares, apparel and more. Since the proceeds are split between the artist and store, shopSCAD is a great way to contribute to the local art scene.

Located in a nook at the front of the school, this shop is stocked wall to wall with creative concepts. Feeling a bit like the Mad Hatter's china cabinet, the juxtaposition of warm colors and brilliant patterns make each piece pop and blend for easy selection. Nestled among the racks of fresh fashion (This Southern soliloquy tee "Well bless your little heart" is a fav!) and handmade jewelry are stacks of gorgeous linens, how-to books and more. Clearly, this hidden gem is the perfect spot to grab that quirky-cool touch missing from your house, wedding or cubicle.

Ah, but don't forget to browse the back wall of fine art. Here you'll find original large- and small-scale paintings, photographs and sketches. From self-portraits that seemingly stare right through you to the double-take inducing photos, this gallery-style section features numerous must-have pieces.

The shop's inventory is in constant flux, which makes for the perfect excuse for a weekly trip! To stay on top of new arrivals and get your daily dose of inspiration by following on Twitter @shopSCAD.

Metro Market Atlanta - Artist and Farmers Market
Buckhead Design Building
June 26 - 27
11a.m. - 5p.m.
Free Admission

Shopping is a favorite Summer pastime. Unfortunately, mixing the sweltering city heat with bright colors and tons of passersby can be a little less than relaxing. So what's a fashionable girl to do? Boutique Blondie recommends Metro Market Atlanta!

Located in the old Buckhead Design Building, this indoor market is a haven of cool temps, hot fashion finds and farm-fresh foods! Modeled after a European street fair, the corridors are lined with artisan works and plenty of delightful dishes. Whether you're shopping for quirky pottery, statement-making accessories or hand-crafted furnishings, the Metro Market has it all.

In addition to fantastic pieces, you can pick up organic and locally-sourced produce, recipes and gardening products. Care to get your hands dirty? Each week, the Market offers numerous demos and classes on everything from cupcake baking and DIY herb gardens to how-to yoga and dance. Classes fill up and quickly and prices vary, so check the schedule and register early.

As an added bonus, the Market offers children's activities and classes. Tots of all ages will love the art, music and cake decorating classes as well as Mommy & Me yoga sessions.

The Buckhead Design Building is located at 2133 Piedmont Rd, Atlanta, GA, 30324.

René René
Vintage-inspired dress boutique
Little Five Points

Breaking news: René René is the fabulous fashion find for hour-glass ladies! Tucked into the bustling heart of Little Five, this innovative designer has been an Atlanta mainstay for 23 years. Fitting sizes 2 through 12, every stitch is designed, manufactured and sold right here in the city.

Infused with vintage inspiration, René's sleek silhouettes conjure images of old Hollywood glamour. Fashioned from carefully chosen fabrics, these original dresses skim and conceal just the right places, effortlessly highlighting your favorite features. In chatting with owner and designer René Sanning, she confessed the secret of her fluid fashions. "I cut shape into my designs, mimicking a woman's natural curves." Let me be the first to say - hooray and hallelujah! Finally, affordable clothes that are made to fit me.

Thanks to her keen sense of wearability, every René René design is a basic piece with just a extra touch of glam (think vintage buttons and removable bows.) It's this attention to sophisticated detail that makes the René boutique a wardrobe staple for office attire. Yet with just a quick accessory swap, you can flee the cubicle for a fun night out. Speaking of accessories, René also sells handmade hats and jewelry fashioned by local artisans.

Should you manage to tear your eyes from that saucy little number in the mirror, you'll realize there are only three or four of each design in the shop. Adding to the thrill of the find, René makes only a handful of each creation, so every piece you buy is a limited-edition original. So chic!

Insider tip: René loves seeing her creations come to life. Should you pop out of the dressing room to twirl in the 3-way mirror, she may just meet you with an armful of fun things to try next! 

Whether you're looking for a cool Summer date or searching for that elusive finishing touch, Virginia-Highland has the answer. Packed with shops, restaurants and plenty of people-watching, this neighborhood is a must-visit!

For some hands-on fun, check out:
Wired & Fired - A great way to get your hands dirty! Choose from over 200 pre-baked pottery pieces and paint your masterpiece. The bisque shapes range from traditional plates and bowls to quirky figurines and even a few sushi pieces. The studio welcomes food and drink, and yes - that includes alcohol.

Highland Woodworking - offers classes in the art of woodworking. Learn to turn a bowl, guild a frame and much more at this Atlanta mainstay. Hand-crafted pieces are also available for purchase, as are specialized tools of the trade.

The Cooks Warehouse - Pots and pans and knives, oh my! A treasure trove for kitchen enthusiasts, you'll find excellent cookware, delicious recipes and more. All three locations offer gourmet cooking classes at many skill levels. This month, try your hand at cake decorating, grilling or quick dishes.

Knitch - the one-stop knitting niche! Here you'll find spool upon spool of luxurious yarns and fabrics. Interested in trying your hand at a fun pair of knee socks? Sign up for a few classes - bonus tip: after class, all students receive 10% off any purchase.

Urban Cottage - A "creative lifestyle boutique" filled with fun, affordable furnishings. This eclectic store has inspiration in every nook, perfect for those clamoring away from the build-by-number flat boxes. With help from this store, you can make anywhere feel like home.

Belly General Store - A guilty pleasure, to be sure! Tasty treats and unique pieces abound in this enticing shop. From fresh flowers and fruits to house-made cupcakes and breads, the array of sweets is mind-boggling. Pick up a few jars of preserves or honeys when you're in need of a last-minute gift. This shop is refined simplicity at its best.

Want to find own way around? Here's a complete list of Va-Hi shops. 

The bright, warm weather is hard to resist - for both people and pets! Unfortunately, all that frolicking can leave a pooch in dire need of a little pampering. Whether it's a nutritious new snack or full day of grooming, pet-friendly Atlanta has just the thing to indulge your favorite friend.

For a healthy and happy pet, visit:
Citydog Market
Buckhead
The city's go-to shop for organic and all-natural food, snacks and products. You'll find pH-balanced shampoos and conditioners, eco-friendly toys, and tasty treats. The Market is also home to an innovative "Self-Serve Dog Wash", featuring elevated tubs for easy washing, temperature-controlled sprayers for less mess, and gentle products all at a great price!

Highland Pet Supply
Virginia-Highland
An Atlanta main-stay for 18 years, this store has expanded into a pet emporium. You'll find specialized products, food and advice for both cats and dogs. Looking to enhance your friendship? The Training Center offers behavioral classes to help you make the most of your urban surroundings. Be sure to check out the online store, where you'll find quirky products, just perfect for your pet's personality! One cool find is the Ecollargy Collar - each is unique and fashioned from recycled billboards.

If your pooch needs a little R&R, stop into:
Inman Park Pet Works
Inman Park
The Urban Dog Spa is an hands-on, self-serve pampering service which offers boutique-quality bath products, sanitized wash stations, and state-of-the-art dryers. You'll also find adorable apparel that is both cute and functional.

Glamour Paws
Virginia-Highland
A neighborhood spa and boutique where everyone knows your name. From a full Glam Session to luxury A La Carte, the spa menu is full of organic products and expert grooming services sure to leave your pet smiling. Also available are designer duds and boutique products to maintain that just-groomed grin at home.

The Pet Set
Midtown
Pet and people specialists since 1982, this shop knows just what you're looking for. Whether it's great advice, an all-natural treatment or just a quick chat, the expert staff is happy to help. In addition to spa-quality grooming, this shop is the city's most-trusted boarding service, with both day care and extended stay options.

Memorial Day is fast approaching, and with it the unofficial beginning of wedding season! As one of the nation's most stylish cities, Atlanta is home to many ceremonies and even more bridal shops. However, you fashion-forward Atlantans know the warehouse-esque stores and mass-produced outfits just don't cut it for your special day. What's a bride to do? Check out Boutique Blondie's list of shops to help put that uniquely you touch on the happy occasion.

If you don't want your first memory to be "Oh wow - my friend wore the same dress last week!" check out:
Le Dress Boutique - This shop carries new and worn-once dresses by coveted designers, as well as vintage rarities. The inventory changes constantly and typically features just one of each gown.
Impressions Bridal Salon - Here you'll find pure Buckhead opulence. Carrying only the hottest names in fashion, this is the go-to boutique for trendy brides. Pricing starts at $3,500 and stock includes a range of gowns from understated elegance to edgy sophistication.
La Raines Boutique - Located in a renovated, century-old house, this one-of-a-kind shop offers hand-made veils and headpieces to accent its inventory of designer gowns. The owner is present throughout the ordering, fitting and altering processes, providing a guarantee and intimacy rarely found in the bridal industry.

For anyone just a little tired of the routine monochrome attire with random plant life as the sole color accents, pop into:
CP Fusão - For traditional elegance and global-inspired jewels, this shop is a must. Offering custom-made jewelry with glittering stones in an array of settings, you're almost guaranteed the perfect piece.
Victoria's Red Carpet - This shop imports gorgeous footwear directly from Spain. Add a little global sophistication (and one serious color boost) to your wedding day attire with these artistic shoes. This boutique buys between one and three pairs of each design only, in only a handful of sizes.

Visit atlantabridal.com for up-to-the-minute info on exclusive trunk shows and bridal events. 

The Georgia Renaissance Festival is back for its 25^th anniversary. To celebrate, this year features more artists, characters and performances than ever! Rent a costume at the gate and spend the day romping though 15th century England. Order your tickets online to take advantage of celebratory discounts.

European Marketplace
Georgia Renaissance Festival
Weekends through June 6

World-class shopping in your own backyard! Each weekend, over 150 Master Artisans demonstrate and display their crafts. Here you'll find sculpting, glass blowing, leather working and many other fine works of art for purchase. Have that elusive house ware created just for you, or pick up a few quirky wardrobe additions. Indulge your inner royalty with the delicious, authentic menus. Two can't-miss favorites include whole roasted turkey legs and mead!

Most weekends the festival features intriguing specials. A few upcoming promos include:

April 24 and 25 - Highland Fling Weekend
Enjoy ‘Tartanic' - a jam-packed show of Pipes and Drums music, Celtic dancers, sheep herding competitions, and more! Throw on your prettiest skirt or manliest kilt and compete in the Bonnie Legs Contest.

May 1 and 2 - BOGO Kids' Admission
One child (12 and under) gets free admission with each paid adult ticket.

May 8 and 9 - Mother's Day Special
The first 100 moms through the gate get a beautiful bouquet of fresh flowers!

Atlanta Spa Week

April 12-18

$50 Signature Spa Services

Atlanta has a caught quite a case of Spring Fever! Citywide, ladies and gents are kicking up pretty pedicures and flashing saucy smiles in celebration of the most flirty season. But wait - what if those Winter beauty sins are launching one last siege from your hair to your toes? Fortunately, Atlanta Spa Week is here to the rescue!

Just to give you an overview: Atlanta Spa Week is a twice-yearly event where the city's best spas choose a few of their signature services and offer them for just $50 each! There's no better chance to make nice with your skin after assaulting it all Winter with heaters, scratchy clothing and fickle temperatures. A quick and easy signup is required to access the site, which offers a complete listing of participating spas. After choosing your spa and service, just call them up and book an appointment for anytime between April 12 and 18.

Now onto the good part - the services! Whether you're looking to touch up those pearly whites, learn a few makeup tricks, or a try whole new cut and color for Spring, Midtown has you covered. Need to soothe sore muscles or unwind from a long day? Buckhead is your go-to community for luxurious relaxation. Great facials and nail services can be found citywide, and you can even try out a few tech treatments - each for only $50. 

Atlanta Dogwood Festival

April 16-18, all day
Piedmont Park

This weekend, Atlanta celebrates 74 years of blossoming trees, tasty cuisines and whimsical creations. Join your neighbors and friends for an unforgettable three days at the Annual Atlanta Dogwood Festival! A delightful blend of tradition and innovation, the festival winds throughout the park's lush lawns and casually elegant trees. While showcasing the finest local artisans, food vendors and performers, this year's events also include a few intriguing additions.

In addition to the many vendors scattered throughout the park, a few local restaurants are extending the celebration to your tabletop. For the entire week (April 12-18), 13 of your favorite eateries are offering $25 menu specials and deliciously discounted drinks! Enjoy pub fare with an urban flair at The Nook, Gordon Biersch, TAP and Cypress Street. Glam up your night with a global infusion meal from Spice Market, Lupe, Steel and Ra. Grab a quick and healthy snack from Rising Roll and Evos. Can't quite decide what you're in the mood for? The eclectic menus of Livingston, Straits and WaterHaven are sure to please.

Upon entering the festival, you'll step directly into the Artists' Market. Walking through the park, you can catch glimpses of the country's most creative imaginations. From more than 250 vendors tons of crafts, fine art and modern pieces are available for purchase.

Finally, the festival is proud to present three new villages: the Kids Village, International Village and the Eco-Village. Perfect for the young (and young at heart), the Kids Village offers hands-on activities and challenges to spark creative minds, while live performances set a groovy backbeat. Enjoy mobile art and global culture exchanges in the International Village. The Eco-Village offers a Discovery Center, focusing on sustainable practice education, while LED lights and bio-diesel powers the entire festival!

Open from morning to night, the Atlanta Dogwood Festival is a great place to catch a little Spring fever. Since it's easily accessible from MARTA, there's just no excuse to miss this weekend of sunshine, sustainability and creativity! 

If your kids are growing faster than the weeds in your flower garden, be sure to check out a few of Atlanta's cutest children's boutiques to keep their closets full! From chic to sweet, whether you're searching for everyday staples or something for a special occasion, these consignment shops and boutiques have just what you're looking for.

BBraithwaite - Midtown
Your single source for rare brands, this inviting, no-fuss boutique offers chic options for every stage of your child's life. Whether you're in need of furniture and décor, clothing and accessories or gifts and gear, you'll find it here.

Bella & Beau - Alpharetta
Committed to maintaining a beautiful Earth by reusing beautiful clothes this "designer consignor" shop offers new and nearly-new brand name items at purse-friendly prices. You'll find outfits and accessories for newborns through a size 12.

blabla - Virginia-Highland
Featuring artisan collections of hand-knitted items, the enchanting softness of this shop's clothing and toys will leave you speechless. Designed with modern, simplistic patterns, each item feels like a refreshed version of an old friend.

Hanger-Roo - Chamblee
This consignment shop offers items for both moms-to-be and kids. Stop in for new and lightly loved clothes for every stage of pregnancy and children's items for newborns through size 14. In-store monogramming is available for many items, just ask!

Other boutiques with the Mommy Blogger Seal of Approval include Buckhead's Owl & The PussyCat and Oilily, as well as Decatur-based Lemonade.

With Spring in full swing, it's time to update every guy's look with a few fresh fashion options. Sorry boys - those subdued suits and dreary shirts of winter just won't cut it for Easter Sunday! Check out these local shops for trendy and timeless pieces.

If trendy threads are the staple of your style, drop by these delightfully eclectic shops:

DrewLewis
Midtown
Receiving frequent shipments of brands indigenous to New York, you'll find cool and quirky, quality pieces to put your finishing touch on any ensemble.

Sid Mashburn
Midtown
Dedicated to authentic pieces and a "fresh interpretation of old standards", this is Atlanta's go-to shop for classic pieces with a modern spin.

For those quintessential gentlemen, look no further for the finest fabrics in classic cuts and colors. Visit:


Guffey's Atlanta
Buckhead
A local favorite, this shop was named ‘Atlanta's Best Tailor' by Esquire. Using only well-know, quality vendors, you'll find ready-to-wear staples for your everyday needs and customized suiting for any occasion.

Miller Brothers Ltd.
Buckhead
While the décor is comfy and casual, the attire is customizable classic. From sportswear and suiting to hats, ties and pocket squares, these dapper pieces ensure you'll leave with a little Spring in your swagger.

Lui-B
Midtown
Bringing the Italian traditions of masterful stitching and quality fabrics Stateside, this shop produces small batches of personalized products for the seriously stylish man. 

Boasting "The Best of Mexico" right here in Downtown, No Más! Hacienda & Cantina is a haven for style and tradition. Comfortably sprawled in the center of eclectic Castleberry Hill, No Más! has made quite an impression. The 25,000 square foot "Mexican Oasis" features four distinct shops - the Cantina, an authentic Mexican restaurant; the Hacienda, a gallery of artisan furnishings; Bodega Garden, selling handmade pottery; and ADios Café, a chocolate and espresso bar.

Add a little spice to your night with delicious, authentic dishes from the Cantina. Bold, contemporary flavors mingle with traditional cooking styles for a menu that is sure to please. In need of an after-dinner drink? Visit the award-winning bar for your choice of 60+ tequilas or try the signature SANTOS Classic Margarita.

Need a little flair for your décor? No matter what your furnishing preference, the Hacienda has hundreds of handmade artisan pieces to suit your style. Transform your home into an invigorating, inviting space with lighting fixtures, upholstered pieces, living and dining wares, and more! Or, pop next door and pick up a few creations from Bodega Garden - offering authentic pottery and patio pieces for your own outdoor oasis.

If cold cereal just isn't worth getting out of bed for, drop by ADios Café. This Chocolate & Espresso Bar serves Breakfast daily from 8a.m. - 10p.m. Need a nice cup of java to jumpstart your day? Enjoy traditional drinks as you mix and match a lá carte items or pick a plate from the Mexican menu. Just leave room for dessert - the handmade truffles are truly "chocolates of the gods"!