vbadmin, Author at The Village at Briarcliff

Stay Safe in the Sun

June 12, 2015 4:39 pm Comments Off

All of the rain we’ve seen in Kansas City seems to be subsiding, and sunny days are here again. Hurray!

Although sun safety is important year-round, it’s especially essential during the summer months. We spend so much time outside – and with bare skin.

These days, sunscreen is a given. However, other small changes can have a big impact on your skin. Play it safe with these sun-safety tips:

Shade it. UV light is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. One rule of thumb: if your shadow is shorter than you are, the sun’s rays are especially dangerous. During this time, it’s important to avoid the sun if you can. Choose shady areas if you’re outside. And remember that UV rays can bounce off sand, concrete, and water. Staying in the shade will give you a head start in avoiding dangerous rays.

Replace it. Protecting your skin doesn’t always mean a change in your routine. Trading out a product you use daily for one with better SPF coverage is a smart – and easy – move. Six products in the jane iredale cosmetic line have earned the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation. This means the products significantly prevent sun-induced skin damage. You can find jane iredale products at Rajeunir Medical Spa.

Accessorize it. Sun can damage your skin even on cloudy days. Beyond sunscreen, you can also keep your skin looking great with sun-fighting accessories. Oversized shades and wide-brimmed hats are favorites this time of year for a reason. Tightly woven clothes or cover-ups with UV protection will protect your skin and style as well.

Fake it. If it just doesn’t feel like summer without a little color, there are better options than tanning. Sunless tanning products have come a long way and no longer make users look like Oompa Loompas. Now, you can choose a shade and get even, streak-free coverage. The Spa at Briarcliff offers Norvell® sunless tanning products that promise a natural glow.

When it comes to sun, use common sense. Enjoy this beautiful weather and take care of your skin, too.

Foot Spot Named Top 10 Footwear Stores in America

12:27 pm Comments Off

THE FOOT SPOT NAMED ONE OF

THE TOP 10 FOOTWEAR STORES IN AMERICA

It’s an honor few footwear stores in America can ever hope to achieve: the Gold Medal Service Award. In early June, The Foot Spot was honored as one of the Top 10 independently owned shoe stores with the best customer service in the U.S.

The 2015 Gold Medal Service Award was announced by Footwear Insight, the leading footwear industry magazine in the country, during a New York ceremony on June 3 within the former location of the famed Studio 54.

The award, which recognizes and rewards the independent shoe stores that offer the best customer service, was based on a mystery shopping evaluation of 100 stores across the nation that took place last March and April by Franklin Retail Solutions, one of the top retail merchandising companies in the U.S.

The judges rated the shopping experience using 20 criteria developed by some of the top independent retailers in the country. Points were given if the sales associates smiled, measured customers’ feet, provided refreshments, and whether clean socks were available for try-ons, among other ways the customer experience was enhanced.

Team Director, Ryan Richard said, “Providing exceptional customer service is something we do everyday, so it’s gratifying to be ‘discovered’ by the mystery shoppers. For us, there’s simply no other way to do business.”

On June 20^th, 2015, The Foot Spot will be celebrating 10 years of being in business. To kick off their milestone they are having a 4 day sale from June 17-20^th to thank all of their loyal customers that have supported them over the years.

The Foot Spot started in South Kansas City in 2005 with 1 location. In 2006 they opened up their second location in Prairie Village, KS. In 2008 they opened up their Northland location in The Village at Briarcliff. This year they are launching an e-commerce business, thefootspot.com that will allow people from all over the nation to purchase footwear through their site.

The Foot Spot offers a broad assortment of fashionable comfortable footwear brands including: New Balance, Brooks, Vionic, Cobb Hill, Finn Comfort, Naot, Think, Olukai and Wolky, just to name a few. Additionally, they have Pedorthists on staff to evaluate and assess your footwear needs.

The Foot Spot addresses numerous common foot-related conditions including plantar fasciitis, bunions, arch pain, hammer toes, and back and knee pain associated with improper foot biomechanics. In addition to footwear, the staff is trained to design custom inserts for proper alignment for your feet.

For inquiries please go to thefootspot.com or contact thefootspotoffice@gmail.com

Healthy Tastes Delicious

June 3, 2015 10:18 am Comments Off

Healthy tastes delicious!

Are you in the market for a friendly, family-owned grocery? Perhaps one that stocks local products? Maybe you’re looking for foods to meet special dietary concerns. Or maybe you need boxed lunches that are to-die-for. Or maybe you just like good food. If any of these ring a bell, GreenAcres Market and Deli is the grocery for you.

This natural foods market is dedicated to providing high-quality products and education.

“Our people are our differentiator,” says Shannon Hoffman, president/owner of GreenAcres. “The energy of our team, their knowledge, and their willingness to build relationships make us unique. We build a community and support people as they try to build healthier lives.”

Over the last 8 years, GreenAcres has built its Kansas City fan base 1 customer at a time. Many customers visit daily, and with good reason. The grocery offers a full selection of groceries, a newly remodeled deli, and amazing drink offerings.

“We offer self-serve tonics, and have expanded our grab-and-go offerings,” says Shannon. “It’s a good stop for lunch for folks who work nearby.”

GreenAcres is also a great early-morning destination. The market offers drinks from local companies Hugo Tea and Parkville Coffee. A local juice specialist helped the market formulate its juices and smoothies. And kombucha from KANbucha in Lawrence is now on tap.

“We partner with local vendors as much as we can,” says Shannon. “We offer local grass-fed beef and local cheeses as well.”

GreenAcres also focuses on customer requests and the evolving needs of the community.

“We try to bring new products in as quickly as possible,” says Shannon. “Being family-owned, we have that flexibility. With so many people following gluten-free, raw, and paleo diets, we try to offer fun snacks and foods on the go that meet these needs – cookies and crackers and things like that – that will satisfy that indulgence, but with a healthy bent.”

It’s this healthy bent that attracts many of the market’s loyal customers. “Our education program draws people in who want to learn more and understand what’s on our shelves,” Shannon says. “It helps people be more empowered to make healthy decisions.”

The education and programming aren’t limited to food. GreenAcres offers a health and beauty section that’s the fastest-growing part of the store. June 20 is Spa Day at the market. Vendors will be on hand from 11-3 with demos, samples, and information about natural personal-care items. It’s a great opportunity to learn about products and be pampered in the process.

GreenAcres also hosts a weekly farmers market on Wednesdays from 3-6. Local produce vendors are in front of the store, and the market offers hamburgers and hot dogs off the grill. “We create that family atmosphere,” says Shannon. “You can get your fresh local produce out front, then come in the store for the rest of your groceries.”

Whether you’re attending a special event, in search of catering, or in need of a snack, prepare to be impressed. GreenAcres Market and Deli promotes good health – and great taste.

Pianos on Parade

May 26, 2015 4:33 pm Comments Off

There is an exciting event taking place in Kansas City this summer:

Imagine artistically painted pianos all over Kansas City in public spaces for our community to enjoy. Imagine people crowding around a beautifully transformed piano while someone plays and others sing. Imagine folks from Johnson County traveling to Lee’s Summit and from the Northland to Olathe just to see all the painted pianos. And imagine tourists who select Kansas City for their summer itinerary just so they can see all these pianos for themselves!

The Kansas City Music Teachers Association (KCMTA) and Keys 4/4 Kids are partnering in honor of KCMTA’s 100^th Anniversary to make the summer of Pianos on Parade event a reality.

AND BRIARCLIFF IS A PART OF IT!

These pianos were artistically transformed into playable works of art this Memorial Day weekend on Saturday May 23 inside Union Station!

After June 1, we invite you to come visit

BRIARCLIFF’s own Pianos on Parade Piano.

And look for events scheduled around our piano this summer.

Visit:http://pianosonparade.com/kansascity/

Come play our piano this summer!

piano

KCMTA 100^th Anniversary Grand Piano painted

by Charlie Podrebarac, Cowtown, in its new home at Union Station

Warm weather, hot style

May 22, 2015 10:00 am Comments Off

As temperatures heat up, our wardrobes can either wilt or wow. In Kansas City, you never know what the weather has in store. Luckily, this summer’s hottest looks are flexible, comfortable, and warm-weather friendly.

No need to pick up an entirely new wardrobe. Just a few key accessories can help you look fresh and on-trend, no matter how high temperatures rise.

Scarves – No, we’re not talking about your grandma’s knitted wool numbers. Lightweight linen scarves are everywhere this season. They’re a comfortable way to spice up even the dullest outfit. Pair one with a plain tank, and casually drape it around your neck and shoulders. Scarves are also ideal as shawls in air-conditioned spaces or in the evening. Stash one in your bag and you’ll always be ready – and stylish.

Wraps – Speaking of a bit of a chill, lightweight wraps are the perfect wardrobe transition staple. These loose pieces can be dressed up or dressed down, and create a great boho look. We’re big fans of the Tart Collection wraps at Design in the City. They’re ideal with cutoffs or even over a dress. Wraps can give your ensemble some creative polish without weighing you down.

Bags – Nothing resets your style for a new season like the right handbag. This season’s bags are all about expressing your signature style, so don’t be afraid to go with color. Summer is always a great time to opt for a bright hue. Whether you love a big satchel with room to spare or a dainty clutch, you have endless choices.

Jewelry – Summer isn’t the time for heavy pieces that will weigh you down. Instead, go with delicate pieces that you can layer for a bolder look. The boho look is especially apparent in this season’s accessories, and it’s easy to create by mixing and matching pieces. Try pairing necklaces of varying lengths. We also love the wire-wrapped gem bracelets at Finishings for Her. They’re stunning alone, or chic when partnered with leather cuffs.

Sunglasses – Cat-eye sunglasses add instant glamour to any ensemble. This shape may seem a little old-school, but let’s let the cat out of the bag: cat eyes are flattering on almost any face. The subtle lift of the frame shape creates high cheekbones on even the most cherubic-faced of us. You don’t have to go for the rhinestone-encrusted cat-eyes of old. Today’s designs are polished and worldly, and definitely worth a try.

Remembering Mother’s Day

May 21, 2015 10:16 am Comments Off

Mother’s Day just came and went. Unfortunately, several states stood in between me actually being with my mom on the day. Thankfully though, my whole family is flying up for Memorial Day this weekend. So unlike most, my Mother’s Day gift shopping was a bit extended.

For majority of you who don’t know my mother, she is an extraordinary woman. When I use the word “extraordinary,” of course I believe she’s wonderful, special, so on and so forth. However, her extraordinaire is due to the fact that she raises four boys from ages 8-13 and still manages to keep her sanity.

beach

So in honor of her being so extraordinary, I’ve decided to get her two gifts for Mother’s Day, one that’s something fun and she can use every day and another that’s sweet and sentimental to let her know how much she means to me.

My first stop was Design in the City. After explaining how my mom is always on the go and majority of her summer is spent at the pool and beach with the boys, Mindy the owner thought some cute, fun poolside accessories would be a great gift for Mother’s Day!

We have a teal woven, straw Shiraleah tote for all her belongings. We threw in a sassy shimmer Raffia cowgirl hat to keep the sun out of her face and additional yellow straw happy just because I’m indecisive and liked them both. Although my mother isn’t a huge drinker, we couldn’t resist the “Liquid Diet” flask and “Life is better by the Pool” cocktail accessories. My mother LOVES and LIVES in flip flops. The zebra print and neon orange are fun and perfect for a tan. Last but not least, some fresh, delightful body scrub from Thymes so Mom’s skin is fully prepped for the sun! Fun gift, Check!

My next stop was Finishings for Her. With charms and trinkets galore, I thought Finishings for Her would be a perfect shop to get a sentimental gift. I told Amy the manager the purpose of my visit, and she guided me to the Spartina’s 449 jewelry and charm collection. My favorite was the “Live Simply” 18 KT gold plated bangle.

If I could describe my mother’s style, I’d say she’s simple yet elegant, everything the bracelet is and says. “Find Peace,” “Wish,” and “Have Faith” were some of the other options.

Although I thought I was done shopping after finding my lovely Spartina gold bracelet, I couldn’t resist the Mariana Spirit of Design Collection. With each piece hand made in Isreal, this line of jewelry is not only exquisite but incredibly unique.

I ended up getting mom one of the Guardian Angel necklaces from the line. Each of these beautiful pendants below bestow protection, guidance, and the faith of an angel to last for years to come.

Sentimental gifts, check!

Forgot to get mom a Mother’s Day Gift? No worries, whether it’s next week or six months from now, the Village at Briarcliff has everything you need to find the perfect gift.

What are you celebrating?

May 17, 2015 10:52 am Comments Off

Looking for an excuse to party?

This is your time of year! Start celebrating!

Late spring and early summer are chock full of reasons to revel. With the end of school, graduations, and Father’s Day coming up, everyone seems to be busy – and coordinating get-togethers.

Throwing a fete doesn’t have to be stressful. Opt for low-key gatherings, especially since this season seems to be so busy for everyone. Have a great time and keep your sanity intact with these helpful tips:

Make peace with the calendar. Choose a time that works for most folks – and accept that you can’t accommodate every schedule. With so many activities this time of year, it’s nearly impossible to find a time that works for everyone. Schedule an event that works for most, and know you’ll catch the others next time.
Consider an open house. An event where guests are free to come and go as their schedules allow often gets more participation – and ends up being a laid-back party. Whether you’re hosting a gathering in honor of a new grad or just getting some friends together, an open house can be a relaxed way to make folks feel welcome. And, it can be a lot less work than, say, a sit-down dinner.
You can do anything, but you can’t do everything. Don’t be afraid to turn to the experts for help entertaining, especially when it comes to food. You can find unique and convenient catering options close to home. Want to host a spicy fiesta? Get fajitas or a set up a taco bar with catering from Jose Pepper’s. Looking for fresh sandwiches, a veggie tray, or the worlds’ best carrot cake? Turn to GreenAcres Market for personalized options.
Don’t worry about remodeling. As long as the bathroom is clean, guests don’t notice or care that maybe it’s time to remove the hallway wallpaper. If you’d like a fresh splash of color, pick up some new napkins or a fun centerpiece from Nell Hill’s. Open your home knowing that friends and family are just excited to be invited.

And speaking of celebrations, be sure to join Briarcliff for our 25th anniversary! On Saturday, June 27, we’re hosting a music festival at The Village at Briarcliff. Local favorites The Elders and Victor & Penny and their Loose Change Orchestra will perform. Kids will enjoy The Rockin Rob Show, and be entertained by street performers, a face painter, and balloon art. We’re often so busy that we forget to truly celebrate the victories big and small in life. Spend time with your loved ones, and go ahead and celebrate. Here’s to good health, good friends, and good times!

Every day is a fiesta!

April 26, 2015 12:42 pm Comments Off

Whether it’s a business lunch, a ladies’ happy hour, or a big dinner with the family, Mexican food is always sure to please. At The Village at Briarcliff, we’re pleased to offer the best Mexican food in town.

Jose Pepper’s serves up fresh, mouth-watering food and drinks with a Mexican flair. Everything tastes great – but that’s just part of the Jose Pepper’s experience.

“What makes us different than any other casual dining restaurant is the effort we put into having the highest quality food there is,” says Luciano Peirano, general manager of Jose Pepper’s at Briarcliff. “Our service is one of the best in town, too. We invest weeks of training in each of our new staff members … we try to be the fastest casual dining in town, without making anybody feel rushed.”

This focus on quality and meeting the needs of patrons makes Jose Pepper’s stand out in a city that has a fair number of Mexican eateries. The restaurant is part of our community, and takes an active role.

“Jose Pepper’s is always looking for ways to help the community around us,” says Luciano. “We have fundraiser nights, we give donation cards, we donate chips and salsa to events, we do whatever we need to do to help.”

Another way Jose Pepper’s serves the community is by feeding us very well. With lunch, dinner, and catering menus, the restaurant offers a variety of options for every palate. Whether you’re looking for a light appetizer or a hearty meal, Jose Pepper’s has you covered. There’s a favorite for everyone.

“My favorite entrée is the Tacos Al Carbon,” says Luciano. “It’s our marinated steak sautéed with crispy Applewood bacon, diced onions, Anaheim peppers, and some spices, then served on a warm flour tortilla topped with cheddar and Monterrey cheese and slices of fresh avocado. It’s served with our Mexican rice and pinto beans.”

The entrees aren’t the only mouth-watering items available at Jose Pepper’s.

“Our margaritas are the best! People love our fresh-made margaritas,” says Luciano. “They are the best in town, and they are a really good price. On Mondays and Tuesdays, you can enjoy our house margaritas for $2 all day.”

Margaritas for just $2 are also a great way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. On Tuesday, May 5, Jose Pepper’s will also offer $2 tequila shots and delicious fiesta nachos for only $7.99. If the weather cooperates, a DJ will spin Latin hits and music from the 80s, 90s, and 2000s.

No matter when you visit Jose Pepper’s, you’re sure to enjoy attentive service and tasty food. The restaurant has several locations around the metro area, but the location at The Village at Briarcliff is centrally located and just minutes from downtown. Join us!

Spring into Fun Activities in Kansas City

April 17, 2015 2:58 pm Comments Off

Now that warm weather is finally – hopefully – here to stay, it’s time to get outside. We’re ready to embrace all those outdoor activities that we’ve missed over the winter months. How about you?

Springtime activities are in full swing. Here are some of our favorite organized – and not-so-organized – ways to enjoy this lovely time of year.

Get on your bikes and ride! Whether you prefer a mountain bike or a Harley, this is a great time to enjoy a leisurely ride. Cyclists can take advantage of the metro’s hundreds of miles of trails, or join the Kansas City Metro Bicycle Club for organized rides. Harley enthusiasts who want organized rides need look no further than the local owners’ groups.
Play in the dirt. Now is the time to take care of your lawn and plan for summer blooms. Doing a little maintenance and preparing plants now will pay off in the hot summer months. Yard work doesn’t feel like work after a winter indoors. You’ll get a good workout and curb appeal.
Eat your veggies. The most magical time of the year will soon be upon us: farmers’ market season! GreenAcres Market hosts The Village at Briarcliff Farmers Market starting May 7. The market runs Thursdays from 3-6 p.m. through Sept. 24. Pick up local produce, meats, and dairy from a variety of vendors, including Antioch Urban Growers, Duncan’s Berry Farm, Barry Ballenger, and Local Pig.
Grab a brew. The 12^th Annual Parkville Microbrew Fest is Saturday, April 25. This fun event features beers from more than 60 breweries. Guests enjoy great food, live music, and artisanal brews. Main Street Parkville hosts this popular party, and will be collecting items for Harvesters at the event.
Hit the streets with a furry friend. Every dog needs some exercise – and you probably do, too. Ease into it if neither of you have been off the couch for a while. Make sure you have the right gear, too. Land of Paws is a great source for fun and functional leashes, collars, and harnesses.

No matter how you spend your time, make the most of springtime in Kansas City. We have a beautiful city – and so many fun activities.

Live music makes Kansas City shine

April 6, 2015 5:18 pm Comments Off

Kansas City has a lot going for it. We have barbecue, world-class museums, kind people, a thriving arts scene, and oh, did we mention barbecue?

Our fair city is also a hotbed of live music and a major player in the jazz scene. Since April is Jazz Appreciation Month, there’s no better time to check out some of the live-music gems around Kansas City.

The Blue Room – This club at 18^th and Vine offers live jazz almost every day. It’s part of the American Jazz Museum, and features both local and national jazz musicians. Blue Jam Monday is your chance to bring your instrument and join in.
The Phoenix – Local music is the name of the game at this long-time favorite. Located in the heart of downtown KC, The Phoenix was once a seedy hotel and speakeasy. Now, it’s a restaurant and club known for a variety of local music and its infamous Saturday Jazz Brunch.
Mutual Musicians Foundation – Located in the heart of the jazz district at 18^th and Vine, the Foundation acts as a rehearsal space and classroom. But on Friday and Saturday nights after midnight, the space hosts jam sessions that last well into the early morning hours. These jams have been a tradition since 1930.
Green Lady Lounge – Kansas City’s jazz tradition is alive and well at this club at 18^th and Grand. Green Lady offers live jazz 7 nights a week and has 2 elegant performance spaces. While the club offers beverages and 2 simple food plates, patrons are welcome to bring in food.

And if you haven’t visited the American Jazz Museum, it’s a must-see for any Kansas Citian. In addition to The Blue Room and Gem Theater, the museum also offers exhibits, programs, and events. All programming focuses on jazz and the role Kansas City has played in this uniquely American art form.

Author Archives: vbadmin

Looking for an excuse to party?