Pre-Spring Shopping in River

Do my eyes deceive me? Is that a two digit number that starts with a FIVE on my dashboard thermometer? We've had quite the winter in NEO this year, and although cozying up in your scarves and boots I think I speak on behalf of all Clevelanders when I say that we've just about had it. So bring on the warmer temps! Sunny days! Daylight savings! Spring holidays! I've got a couple fun events going on in the lovely 'burb of Rocky River this weekend that will surely get you in the mood.

All-Irish Boutique
Friday, March 7, 10am-7pm
Saturday, March 8, 10am-5pm
Sunday, March 9, 11am-4pm
Rocky River Memorial Hall
(21016 Hilliard Blvd.)
As a proud West Side Irish Catholic Clevelander, the All-Irish Boutique is always a highlight of my St. Patrick's Day season. (And yes, that is a thing.) This is the 32nd year this event has been going on in Rocky River and it is always the perfect place to get you in the mood for St. Paddy's Day. Vendors will be there offering up their Celtic ware including jewelry, hand knits, and gifts of all sorts, not to mention the authentic Irish soda bread and scones that are to die for! Plus bands and dancers galore!

Lovely Paperie & Gifts Grand Opening Celebration
Saturday, March 8, 10am-6pm
19315 Detroit Rd., Rocky River
We always love it when a new small business opens in the CLE, especially when it's an adorable paper and gift shop! Lovely Paperie & Gifts just recently opened in Rocky River, a suburb that has always been populated with great local shops. Lovely has a prime location, right across from Beachcliff Market Square and just a block down from the Old River Shopping area. This special event to celebrate their grand opening will include a "Bubbly Bar," treats from local vendors, raffles throughout the day PLUS 10% all purchases!

Heart Happy in the CLE

You love it if you’re in love and hate it if you’re not. That’s right, Valentine’s Day 2014 is upon us! Whether you need a gift for your honey or just need to do something fun to cheer you up amidst this cray cray Cleveland winter we're having, we've got just what you're looking for. Check out the details on these two ultra-fab events going on this weekend and go get your local on!

Cleveland Bazaar Valentine's
Saturday, Feb. 8, 10am-8pm
Hedge Gallery, 78th Street Studios
1300 W. 78th St., Cleveland
We had a blast at Cleveland Bazaar's West Show in December. The 78th Street Studios were flooded with over 100 local vendors and I got some great Christmas gifts my friends and family loved. This show is a bit more intimate, with a select group of 25 vendors to be in attendance. It will be the perfect spot to find something unique for your significant other, or your lady friends if you happen to be celebrating Galentine's Day. Plus, we hear a few of our favs will be there, including Terra Verde Handmade and Salty Not Sweet!

Supafresh Wedding Event
Saturday, Feb. 8, 2pm-6pm
The Cleveland Flea
1401 E. 55th St., Cleveland
Nothing says, "it's a week before Valentine's Day" quite like a wedding show! The Cleveland Flea has joined forces with Borrow Rentals and With Love & Whimsy to bring you a modern wedding event unlike any other. Whether you're pending nuptials are coming soon or you think some bling is in your future, this event will answer all your questions, especially if you're thinking of going creative on your big day. If you really want to ramp up the fancy, purchase a Cocktail Reception ticket which gets you two signature drinks, plus you get your guy in free!

Vintage shake-up

After a much needed break after holiday craziness, Crooked River Couture is back in action! Hopefully everyone enjoyed our full coverage of Shop Local 2013. All of my Christmas gift recipients LOVED their all-local presents and I loved having a story behind each goodie.

One local purchase that may have been overlooked with all the holiday shopping posts was my new, too-perfect cocktail shaker from Flower Child. I was on a mission to find a legit shaker for Thanksgiving as I decided to make an after-dinner dessert drink that consisted of pumpkin pie vodka and Baileys. (YUMS.) After finding less than impressive cocktail gear at the likes of Ikea and Target, I knew I had seen cool vintage shakers at my favorite Cleveland vintage shop. Little did I know I would find EXACTLY what I needed, and for a great price!

If you've ever been to Flower Child you know the store is packed inch to inch with fabulous vintage finds. After scanning the drinkware shelves for a few minutes I spotted it - the perfect shaker! The kit includes a stainless steel cup paired with a glass pint glass that is adorned with classic cocktail recipes and measurements - quite helpful for the rookie mixologist. Complete with a long mixing spoon and strainer the whole set cost just $15! I added a lone double jigger for $2 just to make it all complete.

The shaker was a hit at Thanksgiving and I loved telling my family the story behind it. And yes, the pumpkin pie martini was delicious, thanks to my new vintage kitchen addition. Although browsing Flower Child's rooms and rooms of vintage clothes is always a good time, they have such a great collection of housewares, from unique housewarming gifts to fresh fun additions to your own place.