Lifestyle

  • Holiday Party? Give The Host a Bottle of Fine Wine

    I asked a wine expert what his favorite wine is for the holidays. He offered two suggestions, Beaujolais and AmeroneBeaujolais seemed to be his favorite. Apparently it is light, fruity and quite refreshing, while Amerone is quite different, being a rich, red and dry Italian wine. He indicated most wine shops should have either readily available.

    It is always a good practice to present your host with a gift of appreciation. Make your gift stand out by presenting something special that you can share a little knowledge about. You’ll be the favorite guest at the party.

  • Topman blazer

    Topman. Bottom Line.

    Dressing well can be expensive, so it is a blessing when there’s a manufacturer that produces a fashionable product at a great price point. One of my favorite finds is Topman, a line of men’s clothing available online and locally at Nordstrom. Topman fits a slimmer build very well, but know that the sizes run small so you’ll likely need to purchase a size or two larger than you typically buy, particularly if purchasing the “skinny” line of clothes. I’ve found Topman clothing holds up to dry cleaning, the fit stays true, and the fashion can last a season or two, easily.

    Another alternative for fashionable finds at a lower price point is H&M, but be advised the fabrics are craftsmanship are mediocre and don’t have much longevity. Not to toss them to the wolves, but the stuff isn’t stellar craftsmanship. H&M is very affordable, so if you need something quick and easy, grab and go – but keep your expectations in line.

    My latest find via Topman @ Nordstrom Baron Creek is a fantastic evening blazer. At $160, it was a steal for the quality of fit and finish.

     

  • I’ve Rebranded! TGC is now TAC (The Austin Concierge)

    The Gay Concierge has evolved to The Austin Concierge.

    Just an evolution…

    After many months of publishing as The Gay Concierge, it just felt like “gay” was insignificant. All other social media will soon follow through the transition and the URLS, websites, etc… will be rebranded, redirected and re-engineered. I’m also putting a face to the site, making things more personal, and focusing on stepping up the game with my postings.

    Stay tuned and thanks for reading my posts.

     

    ~Scott

  • Fredericksburg Revisited

    I had the opportunity to attend a grand birthday party in Fredericksburg and the adventure never let up. The weekend included everything from fabulous dining, to great shopping finds, to gorgeous architecture and landscapes, and a lot of fine wine time. Here are a few of my favorites from the weekend.

    Dogologie icon
    Dogologie

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Dogologie was one of the most curious pet stores I’ve visited. The inventory range was extraordinary. Best thing…  You can go online and shop!

    Rooster painting
    Rooster painting

     

     

     

     

     

     

     
    The art galleries! Be sure to wander down the side streets of Fredericksburg anytime you;re there. I was quite surprised at the quality of goods on the side streets. I was completely unaware of all the art the city had to offer.

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    T-Shirt

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Kitschy clothing: there was a lot of country-themed stuff in Fredericksburg, but there was also a lot of nice clothing and housewares. While the shabby chic look was in full force, one can still find purchase worthy goods.

    Last but not least, Vaudeville. One place you simply must visit. Spectacular! Food, drink, shopping… all under one umbrella.

  • Get Ready for Halloween! 

    One of my favorite spots in Austin for costumes is Lucy in Disguise.  Super helpful staff, a fun environment, and everything you can imagine for a costume all under one roof.  It is the Austin “go to” place.