Be a part of the jb and me Style Event Fundraiser with a New Twist! On Nov. 6 at 6 p.m. Both the Holland and Grand Rapids jb and me locations host a benefit for Women At Risk, which focuses on human trafficking. Think of it as a have-style-will-travel sort of theme featuring a bus at both stores. Hop on that bus for wine and appetizers and get whisked away to the other location. Upon arrival, indulge in (more) wine, a mashed potato bar (think mashed regular or sweet potatoes with toppings served in cute martini glasses ) and a Chinese auction filled with items from the store. Live models showcase fall trends with personal shoppers on hand. “It’s a relaxed style show with the opportunity to shop,” said Dani Kool, jb and me assistant manager and personal shopper. Tickets are $25 and of course, seating is limited. To buy tickets, call the store you wish to start at: Holland at (616) 392-8902 or Grand Rapids at (616) 949-9501.
It’s a move and a new bridal inventory for Spring Sweet. The new location at 56 East 8th St. in Holland is noteworthy enough, but the lifestyle boutique will now offer bridal selections as store owner Spring Sweet (who shares her name with her store) bought out September’s Bride of Holland. Spring Sweet offers women’s clothing, accessories and home décor as well as fresh flowers daily. “The person that loves our style will find it natural to add bridal to that. It’s a fun add on.” The new arrangement features the mainstay business on the main floor with bridal offerings upstairs. “We bought all of their inventory and are excited to carry that, but put a Spring Sweet twist on it—our version of the Spring Sweet bride.” Visit the new store in person or online on Facebook or at springsweet.com
The Conscious Collective may have slipped under your radar. The upscale consignment store features high-quality, like-new clothing for men and women along with vintage and modern home décor items and maternity clothing as well. The focus is on repurposing and revitalizing clothing, with an eye on local artisans. The store is “inclusive, fashionable and fun,” according to co-owner Erin Gant, who, along with her sister Katrin Ophoff, stock the store with sizes from XS to XXXL in men’s and women’s clothing so you’ll find your fit. Look for tons of dresses and men’s button down shirts and designer denim. Thrift and consignment stores are cool because “you find great deals and see how spending affects the greater environment. It’s part of our personal philosophy, reusing and repurposing in our personal lives is important and there’s a big need for that in our city.” The physical location is at 445 Bridge St. NW in Grand Rapids or peek online at theconsciouscollectiveconsignment.com
Opera Grand Rapids and A.K. Rikk’s partner up to host a Carmen-inspired fashion show Carmen & the Catwalk on Nov. 1. Folks, this is a full night of festivities starting off with the fashion show, so grab a cocktail, a strolling supper of Spanish tapas and listen to a DJ spin world music while A.K. Rikk’s reimagines the character Carmen featuring pieces from designer Pamella Roland. “A.K. Rikk’s believes in big-city experiences and never underestimates the people or culture in Grand Rapids,” said A.K. Rikk’s President Jim Murray. Next up is the stage performance of Georges Bizet’s Carmen—a riveting drama of love and jealousy filled with alluring melodies and captivating dances. “We want to bring the drama of opera to the runway,” said Ashley Roberts, Opera GR's marketing and communications manager. “Opera is dramatic and so is a runway show. It will be cool to see that tie-in.” There’s an afterglow party with the cast of Carmen and a complimentary champagne toast and dessert. For ticket costs and additional details, visit operagr.org/carmen-catwalk. Guys: Men’s fashions are represented as well. Students: You can get an opera ticket for $5 and sit anywhere you want.
Gin + Juice is the brainchild of talented local designer Kathryn Chaplow and with a barware line so stylish it’s perfect for a three-day pop-up shop at Rebel in Grand Rapids. The exquisitely curated collection of vintage and retro items “feel fresh and current and on trend,” said Rebel Owner Dann Boyles. “Styles are changing to contemporary with a few nudges to the past.” Stop in for the opening event Nov. 20 from 5 to 9 p.m. and shop fabulous hostess gifts including a line of amazing candles based off classic cocktails. The Gin + Juice display and sale continues the rest of the weekend. Guests may try the weekend’s signature cocktail and walk away with the recipe as well. It’s a great course in the bar cart culture that’s picking up speed.
