Go The Extra Mile

Most people know that buying a new car can be a NIGHTMARE.

Scary prices, frightening long commitments, high strung sales people and everything else can be enough to make the most Zen person take a trip to stressville!

If you are in the market and looking for a great car - you need to take a trip South to Honda of Mission Valley in San Diego.

I recently did a bit of business there and I felt no pressure to add on anything, to extend my warranty or to get the fancy car vs the car I really want and can afford.

I am originally from San Diego, I actually got my 1st car from them. After looking around in LA I found the dealers here have slightly higher prices and the staff were mainly smooth talkers. With that, I quickly took myself back to San Diego and drove off the lot with a new car and a big smile!

Of course I can't speak for all the sales people so if you do find yourself there, ask to deal with Dave Johnson - he rocks.

Honda Mission Valley
5812 Mission Gorge Road
San Diego CA 92120
800-909-0500
www.hondamissionvalley.com

It Must Be Puppy Love!

Attention Dowtowners!

Looking for high grade pet food and supplies??

Tired of having to drive many a mile to get the good you need for Fluffy and Fido??

Well, look and drive no more - The Lofty Dog is open and ready to provide you with what you need for your four legged pals.

I was in and out rather quick but in that time I found the prices to be very competitive on both the food and the products. They carry only high grade foods so don't expect to find Dog Chow or Meow Mix at this store. They also had a good amount of toys, bowls, leashes, collars and other pet swag. To top it off, they also do grooming!

With two locations in Downtown LA - there is sure to be one within walking distance of most loft dwellers.

The Lofty Dog
120 West 2nd Street
Los Angeles CA 90012
213-687-8820
AND
655 South Spring Street
Los Angeles CA 90013
213-627-3316

Cure Your Cubicle Blues

There was a time when I spent much of my life in a cubicle.

The perk - I was making money.

The downside - I was in a cubicle all day so didn't have much time to spend it.

Then one day a pal told me about a site where I can kill time AND shop - Alloy. From that day on I was hooked!

Alloy is jammed packed with some sassy gear - tops, bottoms, shoes, hats, belts, bags, pretty much EVERYTHING a gal can hope and wish for. The styles are geared for the young and young at heart so it does lack wardrobe for the corporate world BUT does have the right look for casual Friday.

I promise you will spend a lot of time but not a lot of money on this site. If you feel a little lost in the style department, no worries - the site includes many tips and guides to help you on your shopping journey. Everything from the 'Trend of the Week' to the 'Beautyscope' where you can find the best style for your zodiac sign.

Happy Shopping!

Belted Black Dress - $36.50

Sienna Tunic - $32.50

Satin Chain Print Kabuki - $28.50

MAMA needs a brand new bag!

mmm, mmm, mmm... I love me a good Prada bag BUT sadly I don't have a corner office in a high rise or hotel mogul parents to help finance my habit. With that in mind, there are 2 choices, Santee Alley in downtown LA (if you don't mind a nice Kate Snade) bag OR get the real deal at eFashionHouse. Not only is it the real deal it is a real deal! The bag above retails for $1800 but on the site it sells for $888. Still seem a bit high? No worries, they have an entire section of 'designer inspired' bags too!

Along with some fabulous bags they also have accessories, items for men and pets!

Get online and get your deal on at eFashionHouse!

(join the mail list and you get some sweet sales and deals sent to you AND you may also win a FREE bag in their weekly drawing)

Dress To Impress and Spend Less!

Marc Jacobs, Prada, Louis Vuitton and more BUT for less at Crossroads Trading Co. They call it "Recycled Fashion" but as they always say, one person's trash is another person's gold and at Crossroads your gold can be clothing, shoes, hats, bags and more. With locations in Santa Monica, West Hollywood, on Ventura Blvd and on Melrose you dont have to go to far to get a great deal!

Modern Furnishings with a twist - affordability!

Decorate your home without any fear. Be Bold, Be Bright and most of all Be At Peace knowing you won't need a major loan to do so. PlushPod, located on the trendy stretch of 3rd is worth circling the block for to find parking or, better yet, check them out online. Most items are moderately priced and if you are an interior designer or architect you get a discount! Before you assume you can only afford Ikea, be sure to check out PlushPod.

Plushpod
8211 West 3rd Street
Los Angeles, CA 90048
tel 323.951.0748
plushpod.com