Houston Socialista

This weekend is the River Oaks Garden Club's 80th annual Azalea Trail! As anyone that's lived in Houston for a while can tell you, it's a BIG deal. The Azalea Trail was started in 1934 when Ms.Ima Hogg opened her gardens to the River Oaks Garden Club. Since then the tradition has continued and has grown in popularity ever since! This year the Azalea Trail includes 7 properties, including the Bayou Bend Gardens (Ms. Hogg's former residence), the River Oaks Garden Club Civic Building, and several private residences. Admission to all 7 properties is $20, or if you're a novice, as myself, and just wanting a sneak peak to what all the fuss is about, you can get into any of the individual locations for just $5! If you decide to only see on spot, I would highly suggest Bayou Bend. It took me an hour and half to get through the expansive gardens, and I would say I more than got my money's worth. While not quite in full bloom, the gardens were still bright with color, and welcoming in Spring. Along with the Azaleas, drawing the crowds, I spotted Camellias, tulips, Oriental Magnolias, and Lilies of the Valley. The Dogwood were also starting to bloom, and the sweet smell of pollen lingered in the crisp cool air. You can also spot the city's oldest living Sycamore, in the middle of the property. If you're looking for something to do this weekend, I would highly suggest a stop off through the Trails, if the weather permits.

I feel like such a terrible blogger. It's been almost a year since my last entry! Time to get back on the horse. Today was such a busy day, and it's not even finished yet. I started the day off with a charity clothing swap. I went with my good friend Allison and left with a beautiful Jessica McClintock dress! I then headed over to Vintique Flea, an awesome flea market set-up with antique dealers and independent jewelry designers where I scored two fab bangles for a bargain! The event was being held out of an artists' warehouse, which opened to the public in the afternoon, where I was able to peruse the works of local talent. Such a fun day!

Museum of Fine Arts Houston I've been on vacation this week, and decided to take advantage of the opportunity yesterday to schedule a Mother-Daughter day with my mom. We both love art and antiquities, so we decided to head down to the Museum of Fine Arts. The Houston Museum District is a fantastic place to visit any Thursday throughout the year, as most of the museums have free admission at least part, if not all the day. We had an amazing time; and were able to make some lasting memories!

My favorite hair salon, of all time, upgraded to a new space just this week! They were in a cute little Victorian style pier and beam house; but moved into the oh so chic Chelsea Market! The new space is absolutely STUNNING! Today was also a fairly big change for myself, as I went from my natural dirty blonde to ginger! My amazing stylist Sharon DeWitt, did a fantastic job. Blue Mambo will be having their Grand Opening on Saturday April 5, at 2pm. Complimentary drinks and lite bites will be served, so drop by and check them out! 4126 Montrose Blvd #240

So after beautiful 70 degree weather, all week, I have decided that spring is definitely here to stay. After a pleasant brunch, on a sunny patio cafe, I decided to go to one of my favorite places in Houston; Wabash Feed & Garden! Ever since I discovered this place, about a year ago, I have been OBSESSED! They have, by far, the best selection of plants in the Houston area. Their selection is endless; everything from perennials to herbs, to veggies, fruits, and fruit trees…. Really any type of plant you can imagine. Their selection of soils, composts, and manures is just as vast; and everything they sell is TOP quality. My thumb is yellow, at best, and everything I’ve bought there has lasted at least a solid season, if not longer. Every fruit/veggie that I’ve purchased there has always produced abundantly as well. My favorite part of my visits though, has got to be the animals! They always have such a variety! Today their spotlight livestock was a pair of beautiful peacocks! Wabash is located at 5701 Washington Ave. I would suggest checking them out the next time you’re looking for something to do!

Art Institute's Houston Fashion Week Kickoff Party With HFW right around the corner, the Houston Art Institute threw a little private soirée to commemorate the event. There was food, wine, music, and fashion everywhere you turned. Unfortunately, I didn't grab many photos. I went dressed in a vintage Dalton blouse and carried the cutest vintage clutch I have ever seen. A great time was had by all!

So tonight was Culture Map's Fall mixer, and they have decided to start theming their events. Much to my delight, the fall theme, with Houston Fashion Week right around the corner, was fashion centered! I had the time of my life getting to meet some of my fav local fashion bloggers. Bethany from Southern Chic Style and Julie from Prosecco to Plaid were both there and sweet as pie! The event was also co-hosted by Ballet Barre and Young Texans Against Cancer. And who can resist a photo booth.....really??? Obviously my pal Hope and I can't!