Game Day Parties

First and foremost GO RAVENS!!!!  Now that we've gotten that out the way lets get to business.  If your team is still in the hunt, I'm sure that you or someone you know is knee deep in party prep for this weekend. Party planning can be stressful no matter how small or large the crowd and house parties have a tendency to bring out the freeloaders.  No worries, as always I am here to help:-)  These next five tips will help save you time and money no matter what team colors you bleed.

1. Ball on a Budget - Your budget determines everything from the guest list and menu to decorations and beverages.  Make sure your guest count matches your budget.  You can't entertain 25 people on a $100 budget, but you can show 8-10 guests a great time.  I always tell my clients to be realistic about their financial situation before they consider throwing a party.  
2. Dips are your Friend - Dips can help you stretch every penny of your budget. You can feed 10-20 people, depending on the recipe, and the ingredients don't typically cost more then $15-$20.   You can even make dips the theme of your menu.  I like to serve at least two dips and some kind of meat dish when I throw small parties.  You can find great dip recipes at FoodNetwork.com and AllRecipes.com
3. Show Team Pride with Jello Shots-  I love love love jello shots, especially for game day parties.  They are cheap, easy to make, and you can buy flavors that match your team's colors.  My private recipe calls for one 5th of cheap vodka, on 5th of triple sec, six boxes of jello and 4-6 cups of water.  Always pour a tester shot and put it in the freezer for about 20mins to make sure it sets up.  
4. BYOB- My basic rule has always been if I provide the house, food, and TV then my guests provide the drinks.  This doesn't just apply to alcoholic beverages, soft drinks fall under this rule too.    
5. Frozen Appetizers are a Gift from God- Finger food is always the best way to go on game day.  They help diversify your menu and they're inexpensive.  Not to mention all you have to do is heat them up. Place them on a nice platter with some curly kale and grape tomatoes and you're good to go. You can find frozen appetizers at your local grocer, however, Trader Joe's and Sam's Club usually have a better selections. 

Things to Do

When I create itineraries for my clients they are always amazed at the amount of options I provide.  Most of them can't believe the services or events I've selected are even available in Baltimore.  I often hear people complain that they can't  find anything to do in the city and my response to them is always, "That's because your not looking." The only things that limit your entertainment options are your budget, transportation, and your willingness to step outside your comfort zone.  I'll admit, events don't exactly jump out at you the way the do in D.C or New York but, you can find whatever your social life needs right hear in good old Charm City.  You just have to know where to look.  Here are four tips to help you find exactly what you need to spice up your social life:

1. Pick up a Free Paper- The City Paper, Baltimore's Child, and B are packed full of traditional and eclectic events.  You might event discover a new hobby or favorite place.  
2. Keep an Open Mind- You can't find something new if your not willing to try something new.  Don't write off an event or venue because your friends never heard of it, distance, or because it has a couple bad reviews.  Everything isn't for everybody.  Just because one or two random strangers online didn't like it doesn't mean you wont have a great time.  Remember, people tend to post and spread complaints faster then praise.  
3. Ride Shotgun- If your always the driver, take the passenger seat or public transportation.  You'll be amazed at how many event advertisements and venues you never notice while you were driving.  
4. Hire Me- Shameless plug I know, but it is part of what I do folks. My company can crate an itinerary tailored to your personality and preferences to help you celebrate any occasion. Itineraries start at $60, logistics and day of support are additional.  If my services don't fit in your budget no worries:-) You can subscribe to this blog, follow me on Twitter (@Slplanning), Facebook (Lovelaceplanning) or Google+ (Sherria Lovelace) for tips, reviews, and recommendations. 

   

Ballin On a Budget

It's FRIDAY!!!  Congratulations, you've survived the first week of 2013!  Hopefully, your New Year's resolutions did too.  Now while I can't help you maintain your weight loss goals, (sorry, cookies are my weakness) I can help you trim your entertainment budget.  Here are five tips to help you maintain your social life and trim your budget without limiting you to the $1 at McDonald's.

1. Don't be afraid of discount sites- Websites like Groupon and Living Social can help you save big time on dinners, concerts, parties, and dance lessons just to name a few.  They are also good for finding events and activities outside of your normal routine. Try something new in 2013! 
2. Join the email list at your favorite places- I know everyone hates junk mail but establishments often offer deals that are only available to their email subscribers. 
3. Check the City Paper- You would not believe how much free and almost free stuff there is to do in this City!! I've found everything from free concerts to free food and wine tastings :-)  
4. Take public transportation- There really is no reason to ever drive downtown for anything! The Charm City Circulator, Subway and Light Rail are all you need.  Yes, you may have to leave the party a little early but you'll save a ton on parking fees and gas.  Plus, not having to deal with downtown traffic is priceless!
5. Take advantage of Happy Hour- In addition to traditional Happy Hours, more and more establishments are offering "reverse or late night" Happy Hours.  Most start around 9pm and run till close.   

The Dark Spot in the Room

     One of the biggest challenges my African American clients face is finding eclectic entertainment that also caters to their demographic.  More often then not, local venues provide interesting themes, great atmosphere, and quality customer service but the entertainment leaves a lot to be desired.   The crowd can also be a bit one sided.  Leaving Black folks feeling like the dark spot in the room.  Believe it or not, this issue will stop many Black people from attending events in curtain neighborhoods, counties, and venues.

      Now don’t get your panties all in a bunch White folks! This doesn't mean we don’t like you or don’t want to be around you.  Y’all are lots of fun! Your, “just out to have a good time,” attitude and willingness to pick up the tab always makes for an interesting night outJ But sometimes we simply want to be around people that look like us, talk like us, and understand our unique experiences. 

     So how does one get over being the dark spot in the room?  The answer is simple, own your position and get others in on the act!  Business owners cater to their customer demographic. Therefore, if you want them to cater to you consider becoming a regular patron.  Stage a good old fashioned sit in with 10-20 of your friends, family, and co-workers.  It’s best to do this on non-peak days (Monday-Thursday) that way your crowd really stands out. These gatherings can be weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.   Each time you visit make sure you have a five minute meet and great with the manager or owner.  Introduce him to his new patrons and share what you would like to see more of as well as what you love about the place.  Trust me, if management values your patronage and sees an opportunity to grow profits, they’ll make the necessary adjustments to keep you coming back.  

How to become and MVP (Most Valuable Patron):

1.  Tip appropriately -Don’t leave a $5 tip for a $100 bill! If the service met or exceeded your expectation  15%-18% is the rule.
2.  Bring in new customers – Host a happy hour, dinner, party, etc.
3.  Patronize regularly- Preferably twice a month.
4.  Introduce yourself to management.
5.  Invite the right people- We all have, what I like to call, a “Ghetto Bird” friend or two.  Everything isn't for everybody. 
6. Be friendly and express your needs up front- Let the staff know if your party needs separate checks, has any food restrictions, preferred seating or if your celebrating a special occasion.   

National Harbor Food & Wine Festival: No Longer Worth the Drive

     As you may have noticed by now, I have a great affinity for food, wine and alcohol in general.  So, it should come as no shock that The National Harbor’s Food and Wine Festival is one of my favorite annual events, or at least it use to be.  I’ve only missed one festival since the Harbor started hosting it in 2008 however; I think this may be my last year. The first year offered limited wine tastings and food samples but, none of the vendors really paid attention to whether or not attendees had tasting tickets so it worked out really well. Plus there were amazing mixology demos where I learned all about the wonderful world of Hendricks Gin and how much fun magic and martinis could be. By the second year, it seemed like they had gotten it together.  There were unlimited tastings and restaurant quality samples from premier chefs and local restaurants.  Attendees enjoyed sautéed mussels from Timothy Dean, signature desserts from the Gaylord Hotel, food and wine parings from Robert Mondavi and a host of other mouth watering treats. You left the festival with a full belly, awesome buzz, and great stories. Year three was kind of touch and go. I started to notice a gradually decline in the food offerings which, I made up for by participating in the Fosters Clam Bake.  I missed year four L so you can only imagine how excited I was to be back in action for this year’s festival. That excitement was quickly stifled when I discovered that the Food and Wine Festival had turned into the Wine, Sauces, and Cheese Festival.

     Where had all the food gone?!?!? It had been designated to this new made up wackness area, also know as the VIP pier.  There hadn't been a VIP pier at any of the previous festival I attended.  The entire pier was open for attendees to enjoy and partake in the deliciousness.  Now you had to pay a special price to get the same yumminess that use to be included in the general admission ticket.  Granted, I did notice the general ticket price was much lower this year but, I didn't realize that meant my food tastings would be limited to oils, sauces, cheeses, and Chipotle.  I would have happily paid a higher general admission price to enjoy the same quality of food and amenities offered at previous festivals.  The fact that I had to purchase food from a food truck, though delicious, is simply UNACCEPTABLE !!!!!!!!  No one should ever be hungry at a FOOD & WINE festival, that’s just dumb.  The only thing dumber then that was the 100 feet of no drinking space that you had to pass through in order to reach the other half of the festival.  You literally had to finish your drink before they let you cross to enjoy the rest of the festival and get another drink (SMH). The drive hour drive from Baltimore to the Wine festival simple isn't worth it anymore folks.  Unless they can find a way to provide the same quality experience at a standard ticket price I’m afraid this will be my last year. L

Suggestion to Organizers:  Just call it a wine festival.  That way no one feels ripped off when they discover there’s not any real food to sample.    

The Kool-Aid Wine Dilemma

My friends and I are at a crossroad in our wine selection process.  Possessing a culinary background has helped me develop an appreciation for the many wonders the world of wine has to offer. However, my friends are just beginning this journey. Whenever I ask what kind of wine to bring their reply is always "I don't care as longs as its sweet." Which with them, translates into Riesling, Moscato, or some other dessert wine.  Now don't get me wrong, I have nothing against dessert wines, but not for casual consumption.  After a while it's just too sweet and makes my stomach hurt.  It reminds me of when I first started drinking alcohol and the only thing I would drink was MD2020 and wine coolers smh. Lucky the good folks at Chesapeake Wine Company came to my rescue.  Once I explained I was looking for a happy medium to my kool-aid wine dilemma, they introduced me to my new friend Adesso Cagnina Di Romagna. Adesso has a bit of sparkle and moderately sweet fruit notes, which provide the perfect gateway into red wine for newbies that struggle with the dry flavors of traditional red wines.  It can be served at room temperature or chilled and I think it would make a killer Sangria.  So if you ever find yourself caught in a battle between sweet and dry remember Adesso maybe the solution to your problem.       

  Btw: You can normally buy a bottle for under $15. 

Happy Spa Week!

Hey Folks! In case you didn't know April 16th-22nd is Spa Week in the DMV. If you're thinking who cares or what is this made up holiday; let me enlighten you my friends.  This week allows spa junkies, like myself, that are ballin on a budget to take advantage of their favorite services for up to 50% off.  It's like Christmas in April for spa feens! Ladies, if you're an advent spa goer I suggest you use this week to try a service that you've been curious about or is typically out of your price point. If you never been to a spa (shocking I know but some folks haven't) then now is the best time to treat yourself and/or your boo to a pampering session.  Fellas, please don't feel left out.  There are plenty of services out there designed with you in mind.  Deep tissue massages are great if you play sports or lead an active lifestyle and regardless of any preconceived notions you may have, pedicures are gender neutral fellas.  Trust me when I tell you we find men with well kept feet just as attractive as you all find women with well kept feet.  I'm just saying, no one wants to cuddle up next to eagle talons *Kanye shrugs*.  So don't let this week pass you by without at least checking out some of the great deals available at hundreds of local spas (Spaweek.com), I promise you wont be disappointed.


Here is a list of my favorite services for my spa virgins:
Hot stone massages- Most spas will let you add hot stones to any massage for an additional fee
Body Scrubs- Ladies you will walk outta there "lookin feelin like a million bucks"
Spa Mani & Pedi- Pretty self explanatory
Mineral Soaks- Not sure what they put in the water but you step out the tub feeling so relaxed
Facials- Not always the most soothing treatment but your skin will thank you.

Mirage Night Club

As you may or not night know, I have a love hate relationship going on with Downtown Baltimore. The combination of tourist, college kids, limited and over priced parking is just a bit too much for me to put up with for a night on the town. After much procrastination,  I finally bit the bullet so I could find out what the hub-bub at Mirage Night Club was all about and the venue does not disappoint.  The space provides a nice break from the typical converted rowhouse club layout you find in Baltimore and looks like its original use may have been a post office or bank.  Graphic wall paper, leather couch seating, and gorgeous glass chandeliers help balance out the high ceiling and provide a nice mix of contemporary elegance.  The ceiling gives the space a big open feel and good acoustics for live music.  The VIP balcony is a slight upgrade from the traditional roped off dance floor tables that establishments like to pass off as VIP.  However, I was a little underwhelmed with the alcohol selection.  The club has no specialty drink list and definitely isn’t a place for my wine connoisseurs but, the bartenders do a superb job of mixing up anything your little heart dream of.  All in all, the venue lives up to the hype and is worth the trip downtown.     

Parking: Sucks!

Cover: Not sure what it is normally but it was $20 the night I went

Drinks: 3 stars

Price:  $$$ The martinis are a little pricey ($12) but they’re worth it.

Good for: Dancing, out of towners, freakem girl dress or fresh to death night on the town, live music

Pictures: http://zizwe.smugmug.com/Parties/Mirage

Blue Hill Tavern

One of the highlights of my job is getting a chance to check out the full spectrum of entertainment.  My escapades land me in every kind of venue from grand ballrooms to new age happy hours and neighborhood watering holes.  Finding an upscale venue that offers great food and drinks at ballin on a budget prices is always an extra bonus.  I recently made such a discovery at Blue Hill Tavern (BHT).  It wasn’t my first time there but it was the first time I got to take advantage of their happy hour specials. The happy hour menu at BHT features half price appetizers and cocktails from 4pm-7pm.  You might be thinking, “That sounds pretty standard Lovelace”, trust me when I tell you the selection, décor and service are anything but normal.  If you’ve never been to BHT let me paint a picture before I jump into all the yummy deliciousness that awaits inside.  BHT is located in Canton and is one of the few spots in the area that offers complementary valet parking, which is a lifesaver in Canton.  They decided to take the literal approach with interior décor.  I know it might sound a little wacky, but I assure you you’re not walking into smurf village.  The muted gray wall color helps to balance out the blue accents that run throughout the restaurant and the hard wood floors give the space a rich feel.  The blue accents also bring a spa like atmosphere to the venue. In my humble opinion, the bar is one of the sexist (Yes bars can be sexy) in Baltimore.  Two big screen mirror incased golden framed televisions and a waterfall can make almost anything sexy. The restaurant offesr two levels of indoor dinning, terrace dinning, and an outdoor patio space.  Sooooo, with all this ambiance happy hour prices must be a little lack luster right? WRONG! Appetizers and cocktail average out to about $5-$6 per item during happy hour.  We’re not talking Buffalo wings, French fries and rail drinks here either folks!  This happy hour serves up treats for foodies that have eclectic palates with options such as Calamari Salad, Artisanal Cheese Plate, Seared Tofu, Painkiller Martini (my new personal favorite), and Pear Chai Mule cocktails.  The only thing that seemed a bit lack luster was the crowed.  Definitely one of the quietist happy hours I’ve been to in a while, but even that was a nice change.   BHT gets my vote as a Ballin on a Budget happy hour top contender for friendly service, awesome food and even better drinks.

Good for: Happy hour (obviously), lunch, dinner, private events

Parking: Complementary  valet

Gotta try it: Mac&Cheese, Painkiller Martini, Mussels, Bread Pudding, Pear Chai Mule, Hell try all the drinks you won’t be disappointed! 

   

Pricing: $$

Boordy's Autumn Winefest

Looks like the weather is going break just in time for Boordy’s Autumn Winefest tomorrow from 1pm-5pm. The vineyard is celebrating its 66^th vintage with wine tasting, live music, activities, Halloween prizes and a costume parade.  Fun for the whole family or great for a Sunday evening date. 

Laugh out Loud

Comedy clubs can be hit or miss but this week’s line up at Magooby’s Jokes House looks promising.  Steve White headlines at Magooby's tonight through Saturday.  You may remember him from "Coming to America", "Harlem Night", and "Def Comedy Jam".  Tonight's show starts at  8pm, tickets are $8.00-$15.00 and there is a two item minimum purchase.  FYI the old bay wings are off the chain.   

The Kings Of Salsa

Hey there dance enthusiast, The Kings of Salsa are performing at the Meyerhoff Symphony Hall this Saturday at 8pm, tickets $25-$45. The show will definitely be a welcome change to a typical night in the city. The Symphony Hall is located in one of Baltimore’s more eclectic neighborhoods and offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs you can enjoy before or after the show. Outdoor art displays and contemporary architecture make the area a pretty cool backdrop for a late night stroll.

Upgrade Your Palate

For my aspiring wine connoisseur, Bin 604 Wine Sellers can help you upgrade your palate with weekly tastings and classes.  It’s a good look if you’re trying to move beyond  Moscato and Riesling, network, and/or meet people outside of your circle.  Tasting and classes range from $19- $45.

http://www.bin604.com/

I need to start going out more, trying different things!! Help me!!

Got a request for help from a friend on Facebook looking for something different to get into this weekend.  Hope the conversation below gives you guys a better understanding of what I do.

Her: I need to start going out more, trying different things!! Help me lol

Me: lol no problem

what kinda budget you wroking with and what things have you always wanted to do but didn't think you could find in the DMV

Her: Well my budget isnt that big lol.. I just wanna try something different I usuallly just go to bars and  lounges! Im ready to meet new people step out to different areas. I havent been to alot of places in baltimore and I been here for years lol..

Me: Ok I feel you. You dont need a big budget, a lot of the stuff I find is free. Give me a range i.e. 0-$50, $50-$100 etc. so I can narrow my search and find something that fits your personallity and wallet

Her: Okay like 65

Me: Ok cool you looking for something this weekend or just in general?

Her: Something for Saturday, its a friend of mines bday.

Me: To do List:
Boordy Vineyards has a summer concert series every Saturday from 5:45-9:30 tickets are $17 and include wine tasting. Even if you don't love the band the vineyard and energy of the place is awesome plus you can back a picnic if you like, take a tour of the vineyard, or buy one of their bottles get wasted.  http://www.boordy.com/events/events-at-boordy

Illusions Magic Bar is a cool out of the box thing to do. The bar has the best mixed drinks I've had in a long time. They have a magic/comedy which cost $10 and a mandatory 2 drink minimum. The German Pear Martini is a MUST HAVE. The comedian/magician is no Kevin Heart or Chris Angel but he is funny.

He finishes his act by escaping from a straight jacket while hanging upsidedown.  The clientele and owner are super friendly. After the show you guys could bar hop, the clubs in the area don't charge a cover. If you want to go to the magic show I suggest you make reservation.Warning parking can be a headache http://illusionsmagicbar.com/

Edens Lounge has a wine tasting from 7-9pm. Not sure what the cover is but I can’t imagine it being more then $10 plus the have 2 for 1 drinks until 9. If you wanted to stay there and party Quick Silva Djs tonight and he always shuts ish down. Warning its a nice place but kinda small and gets packed, especially when Quick is DJing, and parking can be a headache. http://www.edenslounge.com/

Comedy Factory I had a good time down there last night and think you would like it too. The price of tickets varies based on the comedian but it’s normally never more then $20 they also have a 2 drink minimum (non alcoholic drinks count) and you can party in the power plant after the show if you like. http://www.baltimorecomedy.com/

Magooby's Joke House is another comedy venue with the same rules as the other two as far a drinks and the price of admission http://magoobys.com/

The Urban Pirate Cruise is another wacky thing you can do. I've never been but I have a home boy that always goes and has a great time.Tickets are $25 http://urbanpirates.com/web/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3&Itemid=3

Hope this helps dear
Let me know what you pick and how it was.

Her: Thanks so much love! I’m thinking the magic bar it sounds interesting. I'll let u know what I decide. Good looking out

Baltimore Restaurant Week

Joy to the city, Restaurant Week has come!  The next nine days are a foodie's Christmas.  In case you’ve been living under a rock and have no clue what Restaurant Week is, let me educate you my friend.  This is the magical time of year were you can indulge in three courses of four-star restaurant cuisine at a two star price. Here are some tips and restaurant suggestions to help you fully take advantage of the week.

§         Try Something New – This is your opportunity to upgrade your taste buds, discover new restaurants, and eclectic cuisine.

§         Make Reservations- The high-end restaurants book quickly.

§         Check the Menu- Most places have a separate menu for Restaurant Week that you must order from to take advantage of three-course price.  Look over the menu online before you pick a restaurant to make piques your interest and is in line with any dietary restrictions you may have.

§         Restaurant  Recommendations- Alchemy, b-Bistro, Blue Hill Tavern, Della Notte Ristorante, Kali’s Court, Louisiana Restaurant, Talara  

You can get a fully list of participating restaurants and their menus at   www.baltimorerestaurantweek.com. Bon appétit!

Hump Day Happenings

Happy Hump Day Folks! Hope everyone is having a stress free workweek. Here are a few Hump Day activities to prep you for the weekend or brighten up your week ;-) 

• Takers premiers tonight at Films on the Pier.  Bring your lawn chairs, picnic baskets, and favorite frosty beverage to the Broadway Pier for a movie night under the stars. Admission is FREE99, show starts at 8:45pm http://www.fellspointmainstreet.org/

• Free jazz concert at the Maryland Hall for Creative Arts starts at 6pm www.mdhallarts.org

• Belly dancing class’s at the Homewood Friends Meeting House from 7:30-8:30pm. Beginners welcome classes are $10 www.homewoodfriends.org

• Larry Lancaster hits the stage of Club 347 at 8pm.  This dude is ridiculously funny!!! $5 cover.  www.club347.com

• The vegan/vegetarian community in the DMV is growing by leaps and bounds.  So much so that there is a vegan happy hour at Sticky Rice tonight.  Happy hour starts at 8pm. www.bmoresticky.com

• Warm Wednesdays at The 5 Seasons is always a good idea. It’s the longest running open mic in Baltimore and attracts the best spoken word artists in the DMV. $5 cover ladies free before 8:30 show starts at 9pm. the5seasons.com

Milan

Milan
1000 Eastern Ave
Baltimore, MD 21202
http://www.onemilan.com/

I decided to check out Milan for “Milan Mondays” to see exactly what “Food meets Fashion” entails. The contemporary upscale urban chic décor and extremely stylish clientele proved that they have the fashion part down to a tee. However, the food and service are sub-par at best. There are simply too many rules involved with dining at Milan. When I arrived at 8pm the place was half-full but very lively and for a brief second I thought I had lucked up and would get a seat on the patio. WRONG! The very friendly hostess informed me that reservations are required for patio and indoor seating with the exception of the sushi dinning area (second level was not offered). She went on to tell me that if I decided to sit in the sushi area I could only order dinner. Seeing as how I came to partake in the happy hour specials and environment, I decided to wait for something to become available at the bar. After about a 10min wait, I was seated at a table adjacent to the bar only to be informed by my waiter that I could only take advantage of the specials if I sat at the bar. Sooooo I took a couple of deep breaths, did a silent ten count, and asked for the drink menu ASAP!

My Strawberry Mojito, which only added insult to injury, tasted more like a gin and tonic with a splash of grenadine for color. I decided to have the Risotto Capasanta (Scallop and wild mushroom Risotto) for my entrée. The presentation was very nice and the scallops and risotto were well cooked however, the entire dish was under seasoned and the wild mushrooms gave the meal some kind of funky zesty after taste. After an extremely disappointing meal, I lost my usual social butterfly spirit and decided to call it a night. “Everything that glitters aint gold”, and while Milan might be the new place to be seen among the urban chic, it’s definitely not where the party’s at.

Star Rating: 2½

Parking: Limited Street and Valet ($10)

Price Range: $15-$35

Biggest Disappointment: Use of space and the food

Good for: Small groups (3 or less), imitate dinners, drinks with the girls or guys, and networking

Bad for: Large groups (4 or more), birthday parties ($25 cake cutting fee), and walk in dinning

Randomness: The prices on the menu are in Euros and Dollars. I’m not sure if this is to solidify the whole “upscale” experience but it seemed kind of pointless since they only accept American currency. What I like to call a “Who the hell cares” feature.

Suggestions for Management: Since the space is large enough to be upscale but still small enough to be intimate/personal, you may want to consider engaging your guests. I mean if the manager at TGI Friday’s can greet his/her customers then it would stand to reason that an upscale establishment can offer the same level of customer interaction.

GBLA's Annual Masquerade Ball

Attending charity events is absolutely one of my favorite things to do. Each November I look forward to the Greater Baltimore Leadership Association’s (GBLA) Annual Masquerade Ball. In addition to a tax right off, open bar, lush buffet and great music, you also get to support a noble cause.  The GBLA’s mission is to “Improve the quality of life for African-Americans and other minorities in Baltimore City and its surrounding counties.” The associations states, “it uses a five-pronged approach comprised of real world education, financial empowerment, political empowerment, public health, and professional development to assist minorities with developing the skills necessary to secure a successful future.” While the GBLA takes its mission very seriously, trust me when I say these folks sho know how to throw a party!!

This year’s ball will be held at the Hippodrome Theater on November 13th  and the dress code takes grown and sexy to the next level. No Nike boots or dress jeans for this party Boo Boo.  This is a black tie event that gives ladies a chance to play dress up and gentlemen a reason to break out their tailored suits and tuxedos.  Between you and me, ladies there are very few things sexier then a Black man in an expensive suit. For those of you who like to mix a little business with your partying, this event is full of influential individuals.  There is normally a cash prize for the best mask and the party goes till 2am.  So if your looking for an upscale affair were folks still know how to have a good time then this is where the party’s at.

Cost: Early Bird Tickets $65; $100 once special ends

Good for: Networking, Date Night, Dancing, Break from the normal party scene

Bad for: Drama of any sort!!!  

Tips for a great night:  Take full advantage of the buffet and open bar, bring plenty of business cards, an upbeat attitude and a smile!

GBUL and GBLA website: http://www.bul.org/  or http://www.gblaevents.com/main/aboutus.aspx

Luminous Restaurant & Bar

Luminous Restaurant & Bar
1110 Old Elkridge Landing Rd
Linthicum, MD 21090
http://www.luminousbaltimore.com/

If you’re looking for a change of venue that’s still close to home I suggest you check out Luminous Restaurant & Bar at the BWI Westin Hotel.  Westin Hotels are known for their lush accommodations and first class customer service, which is evident at Luminous.  The fully stocked bar/lounge has a contemporary décor and is usually manned by the DMVs “Best French Martini Maker” b.k.a. Trevor Ifill.  If Martinis and cocktail aren’t your thing, Trevor will suggest and/or create a drink that will give you that warm and fuzzy feeling you’ve been searching for.  Happy hour is Monday – Thursday from 5:30pm – 7:30pm and provides the perfect atmosphere for your networking skills to shine and make some great national, as well as international connections. In additional to fabulous cocktails and a sociable environment, the food is pretty damn good.  The sautéed muscles were excellent and the complementary freshly baked bread was just what the doctor ordered to fully appreciate the flavorful lemon garlic broth.  Just beyond the bar/lounge is the formal dinning area where architectural features such as high ceilings and bent-glass-windows give the room an open and inviting feeling.  There is also an outdoor seating area equipped with a fire pit and Tiki bar so that guest can take full advantage of days with good weather. Luminous certainly has the right amenities, service and atmosphere to be where the party’s at. 

Star Rating: 3½

Parking:  Free

Price Range:  $12 - $25

Biggest Disappointment: Portion size

Good for: Drinks, networking, dinner, change of scenery, private parties (birthday, engagement, charity benefits etc.)

Bad for:  Dancing

Randomness: None

Suggestions for Management: None

Talara

Talara
615 President St
Baltimore, MD 21202
http://www.talarabaltimore.com/events.html

If you’re looking for a late night happy hour with a Latin twist, then your party’s at Talara!  Their Saturday night happy hour goes from 10pm till 1am and features $5 Mojitos and cocktails, $4 glasses of wine, $3 beers, and $5 tapas. Top that off with a colorful décor, amazing artwork, friendly staff and a vibrant atmosphere, and you have the perfect recipe for a drunken good time with friends and family. I must warn you however, the food menu is not for the faint at heart.  In addition to some of the more traditional Latin/Asian fusion inspired dishes like Paella and Shrimp Tempura, Talara also has a Seviche Bar, which is kinda like sushi but with a citrus flavor.  Talara keeps the party going during the week with $3 Mojitos for lunch and events such as Salsa night, Wine night, Seviche night, and Ladies night.  From food, to drinks to décor there is always something fun and exciting going on at Talara that will give you a break from the norm.

Star Rating:  3

Parking: Valet available for $8 per car, parking garage for $5 after business hours and metered street parking

Price Range: $10-$25

Biggest Disappointment:  Parking

Good for:  Drinks, birthday parties, company parties, mixers, dinner, dates

Bad for: Folks that don’t like eclectic food.

Randomness:  I was pleasantly surprised the beautiful works of art displayed throughout the restaurant.

Suggestions for management: Please keep 1800 fully stocked for my next visit.