Weekend What's What 2/12-2/16

WE'RE SWEET ON YOU!

We "heart" this weekend! Valentine's Day is this Sunday so yep, you guessed it, this week's theme is LOVE. Whether or not you have a special someone this time around, there's no reason why you can't dote on your favorite people and let them know how awesome they are. Kisses all around! If you're single, hit up the Punk Rock Dating Game on Friday; or maybe get your flirt on at a dance party or love-tinged art show! The possibilities are endless. Top off the lovey-dovey weekend with a trip to the Rogue Buddha on Sunday night for l'étoile's "Paper Hearts" party. And if you're stumped as to what to get your sweetie for V-Day, check out our saucy "Guide to Getting Lucky 2010" for a plethora of suggestions. Happy hearting!

xoxoxoxoxo-l'étoile



GUIDE TO GETTING LUCKY 2010

Happy Love Week, Twin Citians! It's definitely not too late to do something thoughtful for the friends and lovers on your list. Use our sappy sweet guide filled with suggestions on gifting, entertaining, crafting and more to ensure your Valentine's Day has a happy ending. Pun intended. This year we've teamed up with our pals at Secrets of the City to present you with our Guide to Getting Lucky 2010!

Click HERE for our 2010 Guide to Getting Lucky!


THURSDAY FEBRUARY 11TH

NEMAA Fundraiser

@Mario’s Keller Bar
2300 University Ave NE
Minneapolis

9:00pm/ 21+ / $5

Join the Northeast Minneapolis Art Association this Thursday at Mario’s Keller Bar (in the cellar of the Gastof) for a celebration! The crew is planning a fundraiser night of melodic music to end their membership drive. A killer line up rock-and-roll tunes from the Crown Vics, the Floorshakers and the Hard Left plus cheap drink specials will keep you warm and rid your midwinter blahs. Stop by for the party or even sign up to become a member. Plus, your 5 bucks will benefit NEMAA and this year's Art-A-Whirl festivities!

Click HERE for the NEMAA site



THURSDAY FEBRUARY 11TH

MinnEconomy

@ Electric Fetus
2000 4th Ave. S
Minneapolis

6:30pm / Free

Ringo Starr recently got our indie-music-store-lovin’-panties in a bunch by wearing a Fetus T-shirt to the Grammys. You too can be as cool as a Beatle by grabbing your own Electric Fetus merch tonight while listening to in-store performances by Minor Kingdom and Anders Ponders. You can feel good about picking up your most coveted albums here, since the store is still recovering from their tornado damage and needs all the help it can get. Not to mention, music makes a great Valentine's Day gift!

Click HERE for the Electric Fetus Site

Photo of Anders Ponders by Nik Maier

THURSDAY FEBRUARY 11TH

Saint Valentine's Funk'n Fashion Show

@ Lost and Found
2542 Nicollet Ave. S.
Minneapolis

7pm / All Ages/ $5 advance, $7 door

All your amazing vintage finds in one place plus a snazzy party? Seems to good to be true. Or perhaps it's just the Nicollet Vintage Loop's stylish Valentine's Day gift to us. Either way, we'll take it! Tonight, hosts Lost and Found present a music and fashion-fused evening featuring unique pieces from B-Squad Vintage and Lost and Found collections. With looks by hair and make-up stylists at Head To Toe, the foxy models will be struttin' their stuff to funky tunes from DJ Rambo Salinas as you snack on tasty appetizers from our pals at Azia and sip on cold PBR brews. Then head on over to the after-party at A25 for raffle prizes and specials on cocktails and food. Valentine's Day just got funkadelic!

Click HERE for the Facebook event



FRIDAY ART PICK: CHRIS PARK

New talent crush alert! At last week's Vigilante Justice, local boy Chris Park caught our eye with his art piece of suspended sketchbooks featuring hand drawn illustrations and aquatic-themed comics. Encompassing a variety of artistic styles might seem like a quick way to an artist's demise, but every genre Park tries his hand at is not only dead-on but adds an element of modern appeal. From 19th century illustrative art and classical caricatures to Japanese etching and minimal line drawing, Park's work is a vividly colorful, intricate web of dynamic images and disturbing context. If comic art ruled the world, Chris Park would definitely be the Mayor of MPLS.

Click HERE for Chris Parks' Blog



FRIDAY FEBRUARY 12TH

Valentine's: A MPLS.TV Premiere

@ Suburban World Theatre
3022 Hennepin Ave.
Minneapolis

8pm doors/ $5

The latest episode from local cable access variety show MPLS.TV is dedicated to “the love,” and its creators are pulling out all the stops for its premiere. Catch the special episode not on your laptop – no, not even on the tele – but on the big screen inside the Suburban Worth Theatre's retro digs. A mere 5 bones gets you into the screening, plus access to live performances by Gospel Gossip and Elite Gymnastics (featuring The Moon Goons' Josh Clancy and TML's Peter Lansky) and delicious DJ sets from Bach and Real Talk Radio. Grab a drink, an arm full of snacks and settle in for 22 mashed up minutes of local music, art and news as only MPLS.TV can deliver.

Click HERE for the Mpls.TV site



FRIDAY FEBRUARY 12TH

(Behind the) Bohemian Scenes

@ Four Seasons Dance Studio
1637 Hennepin Ave. #B
Minneapolis

7pm/ $10, $5 Tempo members

Dust off your furry gilets, broderie anglaise tops and hobo bags for tonight's bohemian chic-inspired soirée. Join Tempo's always stylin' members for salon-esque mixer with the stars of the MN Opera's upcoming production of La bohème. Enjoy gypsy jazz tunes by Parisota Hot Club; visuals by local artists Jamie Dean, Bethany Heemeyer and Ryan Nygard; classic portrait sittings by Konstantin Berkovski; plus striking 19th century gothic designs by Samantha Rei of Blashphemina's Closet and Neo-Victorian jewelry by Kristin Berwald of Bionic Unicorn. Munch on delicious complimentary hors d'oeuvres from Joe's Garage, sip a few cocktails and even brush shoulders with La bohème's handsome tenor, James Valenti – fresh from the Paris Opera! Ooh la-la! Boho chic or period style dress encouraged! For tix, call 612.333.6669.

Click HERE for the MNOpera/Tempo site



FRIDAY FEBRUARY 12TH

Go Live Go Red

@FIVETWOSIX
526 Selby Ave.
Saint Paul

7-10pm / $10 donations

Heart some art and save a heart! That’s right, the American Heart Association has partnered with our favorite Saint Paul Salon to create a night of music, fashion and attitude. Mingle with models while you fawn over the winning designs and meeting the designers of the Red Dress from Heart of Fashion competition. Purchase some pieces of heart-felt art (with 25% of proceeds going to the AHA!) featuring a number of talented local artists ranging from sculptors to painters to mixed media artists. On top of that, your taste buds will fall in love with the scrumptious munchies from Cheeky Monkey and Crave and sips from Solo Vino. What a perfect way to make your Valentine’s full of love, style, and fun -- all for a good cause of course! Tunes from DJ Mike Swoop round things out.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

Art by Erik Ritter

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 12TH

Punk Rock Dating Game

@ Bedlam Theater
1501 S. 6th St.
Minneapolis

7pm / $5-15 donation

Here’s a hilarious date idea for Valentine’s weekend. Start the perfect evening by grabbing dinner while a roaming accordionist makes your meal romantic, then get your picture taken in the l'etoile magazine/Digital Crush photo booth with your sweetie. At 9, the dating game starts, complete with cheap beer, loud music and punk contestants trying their luck at a love connection. Grab a few raffle tickets to win perfect date packages! The God Damn Doo Wop Band sings accapella between rounds, and after the show Zombie Season and Sleeping in the Aviary make sweet music for you to flirt and dance to. A benefit for Arise! Bookstore and Infoshop, who are inches away from owning their own building.

Click HERE for the Facebook event


FRIDAY FEBRUARY 12TH

Street Sounds

@ First Ave VIP Room
701 1st Ave N
Minneapolis

10pm-2am / $5 ($3 crossover from the Mainroom)

It’s about that time of month where our disco itch starts creeping up on us. Thank god for DJs King Otto and Ben Rebok, who will supply us with all vinyl, non-stop disco bangers alllll night. Residents Attitude City and Mike the 2600 King are out of town this weekend, but that certainly won't stop the funk! Co-Sponsored by l'etoile.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

COOL LINK: “TIGER” FROM BEAUFORT

Here's one for Valentine's Day – an Australian love story! No longer content with the menial fame of making music videos and electro remixes, Sydney electronic outfit, Beaufort, has taken their talent to the cinematic forefront by releasing the stunning full-length feature film, Tiger. The film has been described as a low-fi version of Lost In Translation – full of breathtaking scenery shots – but with prettier people. Nice! Pretty peeps indeed. The film stars two very dreamy Australian actors as models who fall in love during Tokyo's winter months only to have their torrid affair combust when their stay extends and their careers falter. The film recently screened at LA's low-brow hipster fest, Zero Film Festival and features a delicious indie and electro-glazed soundtrack with new music from DVAS, College, Cassian, Beaufort and Husky Rescue. Tiger releases on DVD in April so mark your calendars! And don't forget to check Beaufort's myspace page to watch the music videos they made for Pomomofo's “Island” and the Power Rangers spoof theme for Bag Raiders' “Fun Punch” video.

Tiger Official Trailer from Beaufort on Vimeo.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 13TH

Twin Cities Maker presents Minne-Faire

@ The Hack Factory
3119 E 26th Street
Minneapolis

2pm-11pm / Free

A new creative space makes its debut today! The Hack Factory hosts Minne-Faire, a conglomeration of quirky inventions and art. From 2-6pm marvel at the clever concotions of local "makers" including a demonstration by Bill Gurstelle, the music of Tim Kaiser, air cannons, replica movie props, an arduino demonstration, a display by the local Tripoli rocketry club, art cars, a life-sized Operation Game as well as flamethrowers and pulse jets by local engineering firm CazTek. Yes, really. Stick around from 7-11pm for an art show and party to inaugurate the new space, complete with tasty refreshments.

Click HERE for more info


SATURDAY FEBRUARY 13TH

Art Bar 2: Super Heroes of Art

@ Mill City Cafe
California Building
2205 California Street NE
Minneapolis

6-9pm / Free

The artsy types at the California Building host the 2nd edition of "Art Bar," an art exhibit and cocktail party held in the building's cozy lower level Mill City cafe. Join Kendall Bohn AKA Scribblelicious Man; Susan Opitz AKA AbstractoGrrrl; and Aldo Moroni AKA Clayboy as they present their latest creations for your perusal. Lots of eccentric artsy types and good times will abound. Not to mention, local art makes a great Valentine's gift!

Click HERE for the Facebook event



SATURDAY FEBRUARY 13TH

Girls, with special guests, Boys
(a valentine's sequel)

@ Umber Studios
3109 E. 42nd St.
Minneapolis

8pm / free

The big V-Day is often a date scorned lovers and singletons avoid like the plague. But this year – on the eve of Valentine's Day – art is here to save you. Like an art version of the Sadie Hawkins dance, tonight's V-Day exhibit features four local lady artists and their four chosen counterpart boy artists. With femininely scratchy art from DC Ice, antler-ridden fragilities from Jessica Helvey, tender thread and thimble entwined art by Rebecca Sullivan and grotesque, circus-themed imagery from Torey Bonar. And special guest boys Tim Dieterle, Lucas Gluesenkamp, Joel Schwarz and David Ekdahl. Wearing pink and red isn't required for tonight's opening – but we think it would make for an adorable visual addition!
Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com



SATURDAY FEBRUARY 13TH

Old Stage Saturday Night

@ Turf Club
1601 University Ave.
St. Paul

9pm/ 21+/ $6

Like any great holiday, the real fun starts the night before. Tonight, impress your Valentine's sweetie with your vast knowledge of local blues and down-home rockabilly by bringing him/her to ye' Old Stage Saturday Night with MPLS' legendary musician, Charlie Parr. Parr's 12-string pickin' banjo blues provide the perfect soundtrack to fall in love to – country style – and might even inspire you to take your sweetheart for a fancy spin around the Turf floor. With live sets from American folk song-crafter, Spider John Koerner and harmonica extraordinaire, Tony “Little Sun” Glover. If you invite enough of coupled-up friends, you could even start a square dance! Yee-haw!

Click HERE for the Turf Club site



SATURDAY FEBRUARY 13TH

Sweet Hearts Staraoke Night

@ Triple Rock Social Club
1808 S 7th St
Minneapolis

10pm/$5/21+

Overly romantic ballads and lovey-dovey duets are encouraged at this Valentine’s inspired night of loud karaoke and yummy cupcakes! As a kick-off for the soon to be opened Cake Eater Bakery, cutesy cupcake crafters Emily and Sheela are hosting a sing-a-long V-day event this Saturday at the Triple Rock. Stop by for just 5 bucks to munch on specially baked red velvet and raspberry lemonade cupcakes or sip on delicious drinks at the bar, the jump on stage and sing your heart out!

Click HERE for the Cake Eater Bakery site


SATURDAY FEBRUARY 13TH

Let’s Dance

@Red Stag Supper Club
509 1st Avenue NE
Minneapolis

11pm/$5/21+

This year, Valentine’s Day is all about finding that special someone... and grindin’ on them! Especially now that V-Day’s Eve lands on the second Saturday of the month, which just so happens to be the same night as the one year anniversary of “Let’s Dance” at the Red Stag. The supper club has once again dropped its fancy-shmancy set up to host one of Minneapolis’ best monthly dance parties. Find your Valentine amongst some of the most handsome men and pretty ladies in town while encouraged by hot tunes from DJ Millions Billions and Tendercakes. Plus, our favorite hunk, Jonathan Ackerman will be this month's guest DJ!

Click HERE for the Facebook event



SUNDAY MUSIC PICK: THE BLOW

Broken hearted and always in love, this is a project of one lovely lady Khaela Maricich on K Records. Never sappy, always hopeful, dancey and catchy, The Blow puts out consistently good albums with lyrics our hearts can get behind.

Click HERE for The Blow Myspace



SUNDAY FEBRUARY 14TH

Paper Hearts

@ Rogue Buddha Gallery
357 13th Avenue
Minneapolis

8pm / Free

Join l'étoile and our pals at the Rogue Buddha Gallery this Valentine's Day for a lovey dovey get together designed for singles and couples alike! Lay eyes on the current exhibit "Till Death Do Us Part" featuring work by artist couple Karen O'Bryan and RM Hanson while you mingle! Write sweet sentiments to your lovers, friends or that sexy stranger across the room on a pink paper heart and pop it in our anonymous "love note" box. We'll be periodically posting them up on the wall for everyone's perusal. Think of it as a live version of "Missed Connections," or a way to say what you really feel to someone you "heart." Enjoy pink specialty sips from UV, sweet treats courtesy of the lovely dames of Cake Eater Bakery, and saucy love songs from DJ Matt Perkins of MPR/Nomad Pub. Come party after Valentine's dinner with your sweetie, or gather your single friends for a V-Day flirt-a-thon! We'll even have a cozy makeout room ready and waiting!

Click HERE for the Facebook event

TUESDAY FEBRUARY 16TH

JagerCon: Sci-Fi Tuesdays

@ Clubhouse Jager
923 Washington Avenue N.
Minneapolis

Every Tuesday
10 p.m. / 21+ / Free

Join hosts Kate Iverson (l'étoile magazine, Secrets of the City) and Beth Hammarlund (l'étoile magazine, A Tiny Machine) every Tuesday Night for JagerCon! JagerCon is a weekly sci-fi party featuring screenings of classic nerdy movies and television shows -- topped off with 2-4-1 cocktails all night served by Star Captain Paul!

Mingle with like-minded sci-fi geeks, discuss D&D strategies, and use that Captain Picard impression you've been perfecting to pick up chicks at the bar. Snort-laugh the night away while bragging about your MMORPG addiction and enjoy a cozy, nerd-friendly environment.

Upcoming Events:

FEB 16: Dreamcatcher
FEB 23: Nightwatch
MAR 2: The Hunger

This week's flick is Dreamcatcher



GUEST BLOGGER: LE PETIT CONNAISSEUR

Jahna Peloquin highlights the new lookbook from local designer Emily Bryngelson aka Tender Cuts.

Tender Cuts Spring 2010 lookbook

Check out these just-posted photos from Tender Cuts by Emily Bryngelson's Spring 2010 lookbook (as modeled by the designer). All designs, which debuted at the Avoid the Grey fashion show a couple of weeks ago, are currently available at Cliche. (2403 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls.) The senior at the University of Minnesota just showed her senior collection on Saturday night, which I'm hoping ends up on the racks of Cliche as well.

Click HERE for the Le Petit site

Photo by Natalie Olbrantz

NEWSWIRE

Congrats Chris!

If you missed Vita.mn's Hotness Party on Wednesday night, you certainly missed out on some eye candy! While l'étoile's own staff designer Chris Larson didn't take home the crown, he was a runner up, as were our good pals Paul Teravskis (Clubhouse Jager) and Trent Raygor (who you may remember from a couple choice l'etoile photo shoots!). Check out the winners AND Finalists in this week's issue of Vita.mn on stands NOW, or check 'em out online HERE!


Vote for XYandZ Gallery's public art project in the Pepsi Great Idea Contest!

Locally-based artist co-op the XYandZ Gallery has thrown their hat into the ring for the Pepsi Great Idea Contest! Each month, the soft drink giant plans to give away $1,300,000 in grants to artists and dreamers. In other words, peeps with great ideas! XYandZ has proposed a big public art project to transform vacant buildings in the Twin Cities into art installations. They are going for a $50,000 grant for the project. VOTE HERE to move them up in the rankings! They are hovering around #40 right now, but with your help we can push them up and beautify the Twin Cities at the same time! Voting runs through Feb 28th.

Editor in Chief: Kate Iverson // Contributors: Lacey Prpic Hedtke, Juleana Enright, Lauren Gantner, Kate Iverson, Beth Hammarlund, Jahna Peloquin

Guide to Getting Lucky 2010

By Kate Iverson & Jahna Peloquin

Happy Love Week, Twin Citians! It's definitely not too late to do something thoughtful for the friends and lovers on your list. Use our sappy sweet guide filled with suggestions on gifting, entertaining, crafting and more to ensure your Valentine's Day has a happy ending. Pun intended. This year we've teamed up with our pals at Secrets of the City to present you with our Guide to Getting Lucky 2010!

xo-l'étoile + Secrets

NIFTY GIFTY

Smittens

This is novelty gifting at its cutest. SOOVAC's gift shop is offering "Smittens" ($30) this year. What's a Smitten, you ask? Well, it's a pair of cozy red mittens that come with an extra piece that you and your beau can wear at the same time as you hold hands during a romantic winter stroll. Think three legged race, but with hands. And romance. Probably not the most sound purchase you'll ever make, but the (likely) one time you use your Smittens will probably be pretty memorable (whether that's weird memorable, or cute memorable, we're not quite sure). If you're not down with Smittens, SOOVAC has plenty of other artsy knicknacks worthy of V-Day gifting. (SOO Visual Arts Center, 27th & Lyndale, Minneapolis)


Karin Jacobson Felt Heart Jewelry

With her new mini collection of felt heart jewelry, local jewelry designer Karin Jacobson is letting you wear your love on your wrist - and ears. The laser-cut pink and red wool felt earrings and cuff bracelets feature pop art-inspired heart shapes. And not only are they cute, priced at $14 to $22, they're also affordable. We'd surely delight in these stylish little trinkets (hint, hint). The collection is available at www.superkarin.com.


Alexander McQueen Lips Scarf

We swooned when we first heard local boutique OPM had begun carrying the ubiquitous Alexander McQueen skull scarf. Now they've stocked a new sure-to-be-favorite McQueen scarf, this one peppered with juicy red lips. Launched just in time for Valentine's Day, we think it makes the perfect accessory to your Valentine's outfit - and it's sure to add a super-sweet pop of color to any outfit come spring. A little pricey, but we guarantee your lady's glee over this one will be worth it, even if you don't understand why AMQ is such a big deal. ($315 at OPM, 3700 Grand Way, St. Louis Park. 952-567-7399.)


& Again

Ok, so you don't have quite enough to buy new Alexander McQueen. It's okay. Designer consignment boutique, & Again in Wayzata is a fantastic resource for designer goodies your gal will certainly covet. With up to 70% off like-new goods from the such brands as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, Prada, Louboutin, Dolce & Gabbana, Marc Jacobs and more, this spot is a treasure trove of fashionable goodness. For those who are in the market for jewelry, & Again has real diamonds and pearls too -- at a discount of course! Friendly shop proprietress Marla Lyons will be glad to help you pick out something special, but if you're still not sure, a gift certificate for this great new boutique will definitely score you a gold star! (& Again, 217 Minnetonka Avenue, Wayzata. 952-476-2050)


Max's

This little specialty boutique in St. Louis Park is truly a one stop shop for Valentine's shoppers! Snap up sweet confections from all over the world, including truffles filled with port wine and figs, black current ganache, lemon marzipan, chocolate covered cherries infused with vodka, and much more. Or peruse Max's fantastic selection of artisian jewelry from independent designers, unique housewares and adorable gifts. Most definitely the perfect place to find something for the connoisseur of cool on your list! (Max's, 3831 Grand Way, St. Louis Park. 952-922-8364)


Sweethearts All Year

Theater always makes the heart grow fonder if you ask us! Presented by Secrets of the City, Theater All Year ticket vouchers offer you an easy and affordable way to enjoy a variety of Twin Cities theater offerings throughout the season. Use the vouchers in any combination for ticket reservations to hundreds designated performances by some three dozen theater groups. Packs of 6 ticket vouchers are on sale for a mere $99, and it's certainly a gift you can enjoy along with your honey. Theater All Year packages are available at Play by Play Bookstore, Max's, and Sorella Wine. Or, purchase online at www.theaterallyear.com.


Give the Gift of Tempo!

What's more romantic than the Opera? Not much, say we. Give your love a gift you can share this V-Day by purchasing a membership to Tempo, the Minnesota Opera's young professionals group. Priced at a mere $40 for an annual membership, this gift will not only score your giftee opportunities to snap up cheapie $30 tickets to any opening night opera throughout the season, but they'll get info on all sorts of exclusive soirees, after parties and intimate receptions with cast members. For more info and to purchase a membership visit www.mnopera.org/tempo.


Aveda Valentine's Gift Sets

Romance should smell good, no? Well, Miyagi Salon has just the ticket. The Northeast scissor ninjas are offering sweet deals on Aveda product packages perfect for those who don't have good decision making skills. Choose from the comically named deals such as the "She Meant Nothing to Me" package, the "I Totally F*cked Up" package, or the “Please Forgive Me" package. All are sure to put a smile on your loved one's face. Toss in a gift card for beauty services and you're golden. (Miyagi Salon, 411 East Hennepin, Minneapolis. 612-331-1912)


l'étoile Valentine's Shopping Sales Guide

Still looking for something more? Check out our updated guide to shopping and sales in the Twin Cities and pick up something for your sweetie (or better yet, for yourself). Our fashion editor has plucked off-the-radar sales at stylish boutiques and businesses all over the Twin Cities and served them up just for you. Check back weekly, as this guide is constantly being updated with great savings at unique spots. Click HERE for the guide.


SWEETS FOR THE SWEET

Sugar Sugar

How Sweet! A new candy boutique has popped up in South Minneapolis! Sugar Sugar is as whimsical as the name suggests, and offers a plethora of fancy candies to satisfy even the elitist of sweet tooths. Snap up pretty treats such as hand-painted French chocolate, lavender candies, Limoncello salt cordials, fancy macaroons, hand made passion fruit-coconut marshmallows and all manners of V-Day themed candy -- you can even have your sweets packaged in adorable vintage boxes! Bonus: Get your V-Day shopping done in a quick swoop by bringing your receipt from Sugar Sugar to Petersen Flowers (410 W. 38th) and receive 10% off your flower purchase through February 14th. (Sugar Sugar, 3803 Grand Avenue S., Minneapolis 612-823-0261)


Cupcakes a la Cake Eater

Glorious cupcake makers Sheela and Emily of the soon-to-be-opened Cake Eater Bakery invite you down to Mitrebox Framing this Saturday morning for a special V-Day edition of their weekly cupcake market. Get your sweets and your sentiments all in one shot by purchasing letterpress cards and delectable cakes for your friends and lovers. Enticing flavors such as Rapturous Red Velvet, Dreamy Mexican Hot Chocolate, Scrumptious White Chocolate Raspberry, and Sweetheart Chocolate Strawberry Balsamic will be available. Pre-orders are encouraged to 612-676-0696. (Saturday, 10am, Mitrebox Framing, 213 Washington Ave N., Minneapolis)


WINE & DINE

Valentine's Day at Ginger Hop & Honey

We've recently fallen in love with the new Northeast Minneapolis Asian fusion joint, Ginger Hop, and its underground companion lounge, Honey. Honestly, we kind of want to eat there every day. On Feb 13th and 14th enjoy killer deals on food and drink of the tastiest variety. Upstairs in Ginger Hop go for the $40 per couple deal that includes one appetizer, two entrees, two glasses of wine and dessert (add on another $10 for a whole bottle of wine). If you'd rather kick it in the hip underground lounge, a slightly pricier but rather fancy pre fixe menu awaits. For $69 per couple you'll be treated to such options as Chicken Breast with Brandy Cream Mushroom Sauce, Coffee-Rubbed Petit Filet, Seafood Gnocchi, Roasted Beet Salad, and more. A bottle of wine and one of Honey's famous "Chocolate Flights" round things out. Live jazz music (7-9pm) and DJs (After 10pm) will entertain you both evenings at Honey as well. (Ginger Hop/Honey, 201 East Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis. 612-746-0304)


A Bit o' the Bubbly?

Make your way to one of our fave wine shops in town this Valentine's Weekend and pick up something sparkly to impress your lady or fella. Sorella Wine and Spirits offers a great selection of sparkling wines (and every other kind of wine) at all price points, and their friendly, experienced staff is ready and willing to give you advice on everything you need. If you show up between 2pm and 7pm on Friday or Saturday you'll be treated to samples of Sorella's current favorites broaden your palate. Show up with something classier than Andre Spumante for once, eh? Strawberries not included, you romantic cliche, you! (Sorella Wines, 1010 Washington Avenue S., Minneapolis 612-339-4040)


STAY IN AND CUDDLE

We "Heart" Pizza

Who says you have to be a 4-star chef to prepare a romantic and tasty meal for your sweetheart? Certainly not us, the masters of toasting bagels! A homemade pizza is quite easy to prepare, and you can even make a party of it as you customize personal pies for yourselves. Since it's V-Day, we recommend making your pizzas heart shaped (duh). If you are fancy, you can follow a crust recipe like this, but if you're challenged in the kitchen (like us) you can just get a pre-mixed packet at the grocery store and just follow the instructions. You can put whatever you'd like on your 'za, but we're big fans of the following:

Spicy Spinach & Garlic Pizza

Brush unbaked crust with olive oil mixed with minced garlic and a little bit of cayenne pepper (to taste)

Sprinkle on a bit of sea salt

Layer fresh organic spinach (cut off the stems) over the crust

Add lots of fresh mozzerella (the real kind, not the kind in a bag!)

Cut more spinach into thin strips and place over cheese to make it look pretty.

Bake for however long the crust package tells you to, or until it looks good and wha-la!


UV Pink Flamingo Cocktail

We're all about themes, and V-Day is clearly a "pink" holiday. Keep you holiday from clashing by serving up this sweet and sassy cocktail conjured up by our pals at UV Vodka!

2 parts UV Lemonade
2 parts cranberry juice
Splash of triple sec
Shake with ice and strain into a martini glass.

More recipes at www.uvvodka.com


Heartfelt Flicks

Don't get us wrong, we're totally down with epic romance tales like Titanic and Ghost but on V-Day we tend to squirm at the cliches and instead opt for something a bit more ironic. Our suggestions? '80s slasher flick My Bloody Valentine or perhaps the cheesy 2001 horror flick Valentine (which stars David Boreanaz aka Angel, from Buffy the Vampire Slayer, yes!) Speaking of Buffy, why not just have a Slayer-a-thon? Now that's a V-Day experience we can fully get behind.


GET AWAY WITHOUT ACTUALLY LEAVING

Valentine's Weekend at the Saint Paul Hotel

The Saint Paul Hotel is hands down the classiest hotel in the Twin Cities. The historic landmark is architecturally stunning and marvelously maintained, the accommodations are charming, and the service is impeccable. We can't think of a nicer treat than to be whisked away on an overnight excursion to this delightful spot. This Valentine's weekend, the Saint Paul Hotel is offering a myriad of package deals for love birds: Valentine’s M Street Dinner Package: $249.00, includes an overnight stay in one a Deluxe Room and Dinner for two in the M St Café. (Dinner is on Saturday, February 13th only). Valentine’s Day Bed & Breakfast Package: $229.00. Includes an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room and a special Valentine’s Day Brunch for two in the M St Café. (Brunch is on Sunday, February 14th only), overnight stays can be on either Saturday or Sunday. And last but not least, the Romance Package: $259.00, includes an overnight stay in a deluxe Room, Tuxedo Strawberries and Champagne upon arrival, and a $30 credit towards breakfast/Brunch in the M St Cafe. We'll take any of those! For more info or to make reservations visit www.saintpaulhotel.com or call 651-292-9292.


Crosby Park

What's sweeter than a nature stroll with your favorite person? Slap on your "smittens" (see gift section), bundle up tight and don your big winter boots for a leisurely expedition to an area park. Our favorite? Crosby Park in St. Paul. This beautiful nature reserve right on the Mississippi may as well be Narnia, for all the gorgeous landscapes and whimsical nooks and crannies it holds. Winding trails take you through woodland, marshland, and along the river itself, and this time of year the billowing blankets of crisp white snow with be sparkly and undisturbed amongst the trees and reeds (the paths, however, are cleared for easy strollin'). A magical and romantic excursion any time of year, we expect Winter is the probably the most serene. (Crosby Park, 2500 Crosby Farm Rd, St. Paul)


D.I.Y. CUTESTUFF

Conversation Hearts

Lavender & Limes blog has the right idea. Conversation Heart candies are cute, sure, but why not make your own personalized hearts that will last forever? The comedic options are endless, if you ask us. All you need is some felt, an embroidery hoop, some colored thread and a needle to complete this fun n' easy project. Trace the shape of a heart onto some felt, secure it in your embroidery hoop and stitch a slogan for your sweetie (we like the idea of writing funny things like "Nice Butt," "U R Stalkable" or "One Night Stand"). After you stitch, cut out your heart and another identical blank piece and stitch together, leaving a small opening to stuff a bit of batting in before you sew it shut. These could be a fun project to do with the kids, or as a cute garnish to any V-Day gift wrap. Go ahead and add a pinback to your heart to create an instant Valentine's Day accessory!


Handmade Valentines

We've got big nostalgia for the handmade Valentines from our childhood. You know, the kind where you cut out construction paper hearts and glue them over paper doilies? Cheesy yet adorable. These whimsical, easy to make sentiments are as charming as it gets. Find a short n' sweet love poem to write on your heart (or get someone with good hand writing to do it for you) and glue-stick together a silly, but sure to be appreciated, ode to your lover. You can embellish the original idea with patterned paper, ribbon, what-have-you as well. We suggest hitting up Litin Paper in Minneapolis for all your Valentine-making supplies. They've got everything you could possibly need, and then some. We expect you could do this project for under $5, and even have enough supplies left over to make them for your favorite friends as well!

Check back this Thursday for our Weekend event listings which will include a slew of lovable V-Day events, including our own Valentine's part, "Paper Hearts" at the Rogue Buddha on Sunday!

l'étoile's Guide to Getting Lucky 2008

A ROLL IN THE HASTE

Cold is in the air, no, love is fool! If all isn't coming up roses, we've done it again with our last minute guide to making a lasting impression this Valentine's weekend. Whether you're single, coupled or "its complicated", as always we're not here to judge, we're here to help. We've hinted at, in the most adorably blatant way possible, the importance of making a plan and sticking to it. We don't care if it takes a lot of guts, cash or connections to make your most grandiose of gestures. We say make it happen, whatever it takes. l'étoile researchers have discovered beyond a shadow of a doubt, this weekend is filled with memory making possibilities that are yours for the taking - or the missing, if that's the way you want to be about it.

xoxoxoxo-l'étoile

illustration by Molly Butterfoss


SHOP TIL YOU POP (THE CHAMPAGNE)

We know, we know, in the hustle and bustle of your fabulous life it's easy to wait until the last minute. Lucky for you we've got you covered. Check out our list of easy to procure items you'll be able to snap up before anyone's the wiser!

Chérie Boutique Francaise

There's no need to cry over spilled travel plans. Just because you can't go to Paris for Valentine's Day doesn't mean you can't smell like the city of love. Go buy your way into a little euro-decadence and let that semester of French you took shine! Chérie in Wayzata swells with more foo-foo water than you shake a baguette at! Located at 750 East Lake Street in Wayzata.

Letterbox

Buy your valentine's valentine at Letterbox, the scene of a real-life love story turned stationer. Husband and wife team Kimberly Yurkiewicz and Zach Barocas set the sentiment standard with a cultured array of everything necessary to introduce heart to paper. Located at 2741 Hennepin in Uptown.

Some-Ecards

If you're not sure you care to send your very best quite yet, why not send a message that better captures your current romantic reality? We haven't laughed this much over free ecards in a long time. It's possible Some-ecards hit some of us a little too close to home…in a good way!

Lou Lou Loves You

And l'étoile loves Lou Lou. Cutest under-things ever. A present for both parties, these fresh British knickers will definitely give your evening a kick. A little late to order, but online gift certificates are available for those who celebrate Valentine's Day every day.


Smitten Kitten

Need we say more? For surefire results from a sexy gesture, visit Minneapolis' reigning sex-perts at Smitten Kitten for a hit list of all you need to pack some heat. Located at 3010 Lyndale Ave. South in Uptown.

Lush Play Your Cards Right Massage Bar

Lush has landed at the MOA! The newest addition to Lush's famous line of massage bars is a steal at under $10. Scented with their ever-popular Sex Bomb fragrance, this little indulgence is the deal for staying in on a cold, winter night. If you know what we mean! Available at Macy's in the Mall of America.

Philosophy Candy Hearts Lip Shine Trio

Available exclusively at Sephora, these lip-smacking glosses are much more mouth-watering than the conversation heart candies that inspire them. If you can't bring yourself to say the words, these moisturizing treats will let her lips do all the talking. The Philosophy Candy Hearts Lip Shine Trio is available at Sephora in the Mall of America.

Legacy Chocolate

Sex and chocolate have been close compadres since the days of Montezuma. Legend has it the king sipped cups of "xoco latl" to put him in the mood before visiting his harem. I know we just got all historical on you, but if l'étoile were a harem (and some say as much!) we'd definitely go for the sultry confections from Legacy Chocolate. In addition to their famed spicy sipping chocolate, try Potion No. 9. Thick, sinful and tasty; you'll find countless uses, and ahem, places, for this decadent sauce. Located at 2042 Marshall Ave in St.Paul.

Where Have All the Flowers Gone?

We don't know about all the flowers, but the cool ones still reside at Roger Beck. Florist. While many shops have jumped on the hipper-than-thou floral-arranging bandwagon, the designers at Roger Beck are still blazing the trail. Located at 1100 East Franklin Ave in Minneapolis.

We've Got a Crush on You!

Good l'étoile friend and cohort Brian Chan whipped up an adorable Valentine's Day mix that's almost as crushworthy as you!

Tracklist:

01. Aztec Camera - Oblivious
02. Shout Out Louds - Impossible (Possible Remake by Studio)
03. Jens Lekman - Sipping on the Sweet Nectar
04. Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark - So In Love
05. The Associates - Waiting For The Love Boat
06. Sebastien Tellier - Divine
07. Pleasure - Out of Love
08. The Knife - Heartbeats
09. Neon Neon - Raquel
10. Lykke Li - Little Bit
11. Guillemots - Annie, Let's Not Wait
12. Dexys Midnight Runners - This Is What She's Like

CLICK THE IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD THE FREE MIX



HEART YOUR SLEEVE

Is the perfect outfit playing the elusive lover this Valentine's?
Check out the shops below for guaranteed textile satisfaction.

Lava Lounge – That little something extra
3037 Lyndale Avenue South
Minneapolis
612-824-5631

Cliché – Like-minded, local designs
2403 Lyndale Avenue South
Minneapolis
612-870-0420

Global Village - beads, baubles and scarves galore!
406 Cedar Ave. S.
West Bank
612-673-0366

Covered – Slick wardrobage
402 14th Street S.E.
Dinkytown, Minneapolis
612-378-4776

Lula – Vintage glam, one-stop
1587 Selby Ave
St Paul, MN 55104
(651) 644-4110

Rewind – Last minute duds for guys and dolls
2829 Johnson St Ne
Minneapolis, MN 55418

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR MORE FASHION INSPIRATION


HOT DAMN!

You've got a date. Now what? l'étoile's at-home beauty boosts will make your dermis divine. And hey, if all goes well, the cash you'll save will help to continue the celebration all weekend!

Bestest Body Buffer

This recipe was handed down by one of the most notoriously sexy, on-the-go gals we know. We expect it will be published someday in her racy memoir, but here it is just in time for you. Right before you shower, mix 3 parts organic sesame oil, 1 part sea salt and 7-10 drops tea tree oil in a small bowl. Dampen skin (leave shower running for steam), and work scrub into skin one limb and part at a time. Shower off, but don't rinse away all the oil – that's where the magic is! Seal the deal with a spritz of your favorite scent.

Lip Scrub

For a kissable pout, mix equal parts honey and baking soda to create a paste. Add a pinch of brown sugar for additional texture. Smooth onto lips, exfoliating gently, and let sit for two minutes. Rinse with warm water and follow with your favorite lip balm (we like Bonne Bell Lip Smackers in Dr. Pepper).

Brightening Mask

To fab up winter skin, try out this classic. Crush five uncoated aspirin (the back of a spoon works best) and gradually add warm water to make a paste of medium consistency (not too watery!). Add a dollop of mild facial cleanser (we use Cetaphil) and apply mask to face, lightly rubbing the mixture onto skin for maximum exfoliation. Let sit for five-ten minutes and rinse with warm water. The salicylic acid in aspirin will tighten pores, minimize oiliness, and brighten your complexion. Hint! This mask works on other troubled cheeks as well.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR MORE HOMEMADE BEAUTY PRODUCTS


HEART? STOMACH!

All dressed up, but nowhere yet to go? Lucky for you, we've l'étoile-tested a few gems that, as of press time, still had a few openings for procrastinators like you. So whether you want to go out or stay in, you'll be set with a table to remember.


Spill the Wine – Contemporary and savory menu

5 Course Wine Dinner - 7 pm, $120 per couple
3 Course prix-fix Dinner, $49 per person with wine
Wine and Dessert - 7-10, $35 per person, online

Sapor – Seasonal, locally focused cuisine

4-Course Dinner, $60 per person
Wine Pairing, $30 per person
Reservations 5:00pm-10:00pm

Giorgio – Intimate, frescoed trattoria

2451 Hennepin Ave
Minneapolis, MN 55405
(612) 374-5131
Hand selected, hand-made menu, ala carte options.

Duplex – Fine food for fine people

5-course tasting menu, open late. Full menu and wine & dessert menu also available. Reservations advised but bar is first come, first served seating.

Wilde Roast & La Boheme – Dinner AND a Movie


In conjunction with The Heights Theater, Wilde Roast offers a prix-fix menu and movie for two. Package is $99 per couple, check the websites for details.

Coastal Seafoods Valentine's week sale

Twenty percent discounts on crabcakes, soups and kobe beef.
2330 Minnehaha Av. S., Minneapolis, 612-724-7425; St. Paul, Wayzata.

Surdyks – Snap up a party-pack of aphrodisiacs with Surdyks Deli's take-away gourmet - don't forget the champagne! 303 East Hennepin Ave. Northeast Mpls, 612-379-3232

SUGAR COOKIES, L'ETOILE STYLE

Bet you didn't think we could bake? Well, you're wrong, we can. However we won't lie and say we made the cookies in the picture below. l'etoile friend Andi Hillestad whipped up these adorable art-hearts for us to nibble and was kind enough to share the recipe. Click below for the full recipe.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE RECIPE



PINK LEMON KISSES

UV Vodka wants to inspire a magical Valentine's Day with this tasty sweet and sour sparkling cocktail recipe. Well, to be honest, UV just wants to get you drunk and take you home. What happens after that is between you and the vodka, baby.

UV Secret Crush

1 Part UV Pink Lemonade Vodka
3 parts lemon-lime soda
serve on the rocks in a lowball glass

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE UV SITE