To help make the transition from summer to autumn as enjoyable as possible, we’ve rounded up some ways to enjoy this shift. Get ready to show the world how much fun fall can be!

Dress for the Moment

Here in Wilmington, we’re a bit spoiled. Autumn doesn’t necessarily mean frigid temperatures and whipping winds—more often than not, we’re sipping our pumpkin spice lattes while wearing shorts and tank tops. Because our autumn season is so mild, there’s no reason to wrap yourself in a parka the second the kids go back to school. Instead, transition to a fall look while keeping your coastal vibe. Ditch the winter coat for light layers and pull on a pair of wide legged jeans, which are making a comeback and perfectly capture our beachy, bohemian vibe. Another thing we don’t need right now? Heavy boots lined with fur. Instead, trade in your summer sandals for a pair of kitten heels—they’re laid back but still offer a fun bit of flair. For men and women, suede loafers are also a lightweight and cozy choice.

Ann Taylor Kitten Heels

As for colors, this year the trends are changing from bright, bold hues to more muted tones—think mustard yellow, olive green, and pale pink blush. Buying a few key pieces in these kinder, gentler colors is a great way to embrace the season without investing in a completely new wardrobe.

Talbots

Ann Taylor

Fall Flavor Guide

The biggest trend in food this fall is reinventing American Classics through unexpected ways. Take the burger for instance, pass on the ground beef and grill up burgers made from duck, lobster, pork belly, or squid. Interesting combinations not your thing? Add traditional fall flavors like squash, carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and sage to your entrée or side item and voilà, your favorite summer recipes turn into rustic fall meals. For dessert, try fresh figs, ginger, apples, pears, and cinnamon. Each offer a range of intense autumn flavors and textures.

Taste these unique fall combinations at one of our 20 eateries or learn to choose and use these fall ingredients at Williams-Sonoma, The Fresh Market and Harris Teeter.

Infusing Your Home with Autumn Accents

The changing of the seasons is a great reason to update your home décor and give your house a fresh look. The same colors that will be popular for your wardrobe can also be used for your walls and accessories—bold pinks, navy blues, and olive greens work particularly well in homes. Adding pops of these colors via accent walls, throw pillows, or scatter rugs are easy ways to breathe new life into familiar spaces and embrace the new season.

Pier 1

Other small touches that can help you celebrate this time of year include an autumnal wreath on your front door, cloth napkins in hues of red and gold, and tablescapes that take their inspiration from the natural world—think pinecones, pomegranates, and pumpkins. If you’re feeling crafty, you can head to Michaels and try your hand at a DIY adventure. Mayfaire has plenty of stores to help make all your autumn dreams come true.

Williams-Sonoma Fall Tablescape

When it comes to celebrating the seasons, Mayfaire has everything including fashion, food, and good, old-fashioned fun. Stop by today and get ready to “fall” in love with autumn.

The post Transition To Fall appeared first on Mayfaire Towncenter.

Gap Kids: A Uniform That Feels Unique

Gap Uniform Shop

If your school requires uniforms, you’re probably searching for fun and creative ways to follow the rules while still expressing your unique personality. The answer? Gap Kids. Their wide selection of uniform apparel is lightweight, comfortable, and made from quality fabrics, which means you’re treating yourself to style that will last.

For boys, Gap carries polo shirts, chino pants and shorts, and longer Bermuda shorts. All their pants are treated with GapShield to prevent spills and stains, and their varsity jackets will keep you warm during football games. Girls can choose between skirts, romper dresses, and the popular ponte pants, which are super soft and feature five pockets. They also carry both skinny and flare pants to help you find the perfect fit.

If you’re looking for true one-of-a-kind style to add to your uniform, Gap has a ton of fun and unique accessories. Knee socks, key chains, patches, and backpacks are great ways to add personality to any uniform.

Whether your cruising through the cafeteria, cramming for a biology test, or trying out for the cheerleading team, a Gap uniform gives you the confidence to go all out!

Buckle: A Fresh Spin on Your Favorite Brands

Buckle Back to School Fashions

When it comes to today’s most popular brands, no one keeps more in stock than Buckle. They carry many West Coast brands, including Billabong, Society, Hurley, Young & Reckless, RVCA, Obey, and Fox. They also carry other brands you’re sure to find on the top of every back-to-school shopping list, such as Affliction, American Fighter, Sinful, Rock Revival, Miss Me, BKE, Kancan, Free People, Amuse Society, and Angels & Diamonds.

Because Buckle has so much to choose from, they offer an amazing service that makes back to school shopping a snap. Simply call ahead and tell the sales associate your name, size, and style. He or she will stock a dressing room with items in your size, including shirts, jeans, and accessories. When you arrive, trying things on and finding the right look will be fast, easy, and fun! Plus, the associates at Buckle know what’s in style. Their suggestions for boys include lightweight pullovers, short sleeved button downs, and colored jeans. For girls, the “in” looks include flannel shirts, denim with touches of bling, and a boho chic vibe. They also carry youth sizes for the younger set. When it comes to fashion, Buckle knows what’s hot and what’s not.

Your One-Stop Back to School Shop!

If you’re looking for more style inspiration, Mayfaire has a long list of stores to help get your closet into shape. Other stores specializing in back-to-school fashion include Belk, Claire’s, Justice, Michaels, Marshalls, J. Crew, Coastal Urge, Lauren & Elizabth, Barnes & Noble, Fancesca’s, Julie’s, Hallmark, Eddie Bauer, Palm Garden, Bijuju, Towne Toys, and Lily Nicole & Co, which will open later this month. Make sure to let your parents know that most of these stores are hosting special back to school deals and discounts, too! Not only that, you can also score everything else you need at Mayfaire, including books, backpacks, shoes, and art supplies.

Our back to school calendar is full of exciting events and fun celebrations to help you kick off the new school year. Check them out and get ready for the best year ever!

From backpacks to buttonups and everything in between, Mayfaire is the best place to get all your back to school shopping done. Visit us today, and your next stop will be top of the class.

The post Get the Best in Back to School Style appeared first on Mayfaire Towncenter.

Top Flite Tour Men’s Complete Golf Set and Golf Cart Bags – Dick’s Sporting Goods

In Mayfaire Community Center, the new Dick’s Sporting Goods offers an array of fun for outdoorsmen and sports lovers alike. In fact, the store is running its biggest golf sale of the year right now. Discover a plethora of golf balls, clubs and bags just for dad with huge discounts for you. For instance, to get Dad started with golf, try the Top Flite Tour Men’s 19-piece Complete Golf Set, just $399.99 (originally $499.99!). It includes driver, 3 and 5 woods, 3-4 hybrids, 5-9 irons, pitching wedge, sand wedge, putter, a lightweight cart bag, and headcovers, all designed for men’s preferred performance.

If Dad already has the best golf set in town, step up his game with a brand new cart bag. Dick’s offers a huge selection varying in dozens of colors and styles—and many are on sale right now.

Disc Golf – Dick’s Sporting Goods

And for a unique twist on golf, get Pop started with a new game: disc golf. Sets are just $29.99, or discs can be bought separately for $9.99-17.99. Bags range from $29.99 to $59.99. In Wilmington, there are courses near Monkey Junction, Castle Hayne, and Kure Beach. There are additional courses near Jacksonville or in Brunswick County, too. Check out www.dgcoursereview.com for more information on disc golf in our area.

Kayaks & Canoes – Dick’s Sporting Goods

A great Father’s Day gift is one Dad can enjoy with the whole family. At Dick’s, boating fun is covered with plenty of kayaks ($199.99-599.99) and canoes ($399.99-799.99), but there is also a great selection of tubes for weekend fun with motor boats.

Tubing Fun – Dick’s Sporting Goods

The Livewire 2 is on sale for $90 off, now $259.99. The O’Brien Relax 2 is $229.99 and the Rave Sports Razor 2 is $109.99. Tube tow ropes range from $21.99 to $39.99.

Yeti Tundra coolers, Tanks and Hopper bags – Dick’s Sporting Goods

Likewise, if Dad is a fisherman or camper, he’ll love a new Yeti cooler. We haven’t met a guy who didn’t wish for Yeti! The brand is touted for being able to keep ice for days, and its most recognized design, the Tundra, is described by Dick’s website as, “Tough enough for everything outdoors, the large, all-purpose YETI® Tundra Chest Cooler outperforms the competition. Ultimately the strongest of its kind, it has an extra-thick FatWall® design with twice the insulation, and a ColdLock™ Gasket to lock out heat and seal in the cold. The Tundra™ features a rack to separate dry foods from the ice so sandwiches won’t get soggy, and two different grips for easy hauling.” The Tundra coolers range from $299.99-479.99.

Dick’s Sporting Goods also carries Yeti’s Tank ice bucket ($249.99) and the Hopper cooler bag ($349.99).

For the music lovers, hhgregg offers an array of wireless speakers, from stylish wood-grain ensembles to rugged, water-resistant units for the super active.

TDK Wireless Speakers (Micro, Max, and Portable) – hhgregg

TDK’s TREK Max Wireless Speaker ($109.95, suggested $149.95) not only produces high-quality sound through Bluetooth streaming technology, it also offers an integrated microphone for speakerphone functionality for hands-free calls. It’s got a weatherized design and allows up to eight hours of battery life.

Its cousin the TREK Wireless Portable Speaker has room-filling sound and up to six hours of playback in a weatherized design for $79.95. The TREK Micro Wireless Speaker offers the same weather-resistant design and six hours of battery life, but in a much smaller package for maximum portability ($19.95, suggested $59.95).

House of Marley Wireless Speaker – hhgregg

The Homedics House of Marley Get Together Bluetooth Portable Audio System is beautiful in natural bamboo front and back panels. It’s covered with Marley-exclusive REWIND fabric composed of hemp, organic cotton, and recycled plastic bottles. With 3.5″ high-output woofers and 1″ tweeters, it performs with strong output but clean-sounding details. Use it wirelessly with your Bluetooth or plug in phone or music device with the auxiliary input. Not only does the speaker offer eight hours of playback, it also provides a USB power output for charging devices. It retails at $219.99 but hhgregg’s everyday low price is $179.99.

Samsung 65″ Curved 4k Ultra-HD Smart TV – hhgregg

As well, Samsung’s new Curved 4k Ultra-HD 3D Smart TV is a true electronic beauty! (And it would upgrade any man-cave). Neuro-crystal color technology and an auto-depth enhancer create more lifelike pictures at four times the resolution of full HD. hhgregg carries several versions, but the 65″ Class goes for $3,497.99 (suggested $4.997.99).

Craft Beer BBQ Sauces and Beer Brisket Rub – Williams-Sonoma

Dad can master the grill this summer and take cooking to the next level with gourmet gifts from Williams-Sonoma. Start him off with the basics of grilling with a Non-stick BBQ Tool Set packaged in a metal carrying case (on sale for $79.96, suggested $99.95). The set comes with a fork, tongs, slotted spatula and basting brush. Up the ante with LeCreuset Skinny Grills ($99.95-199.95), enameled cast-iron grill pans which are ideal for vegetables and seafood while elevating food from fatty drippings. Likewise, Williams-Sonoma offers plenty of non-stick outdoor cookware, such as a roaster, fry pan and griddle all for use on the grill ($44.95-49.95).

Hot and BBQ Sauces – Williams-Sonoma

For the craft beer lover, pair Dad’s favorite sudsy beverage with selections from Williams-Sonoma’s line of craft beer BBQ sauces. Try versions made with Shiner’s dark lager or Belgian white ale, Boulevard’s pilsner, or Southern Tier’s Pale Ale. Sampler packs are $29.95, or opt for a larger bottle and a Beer Brisket Rub for $23.90. Also try Williams-Sonoma’s dozens of sauces, from Ghost Chili Garlic BBQ Sauce to Spicy Sambal Sauce, $12.95 each.

Story and photos by Bethany Turner

The post A Day for Dads appeared first on Mayfaire Towncenter.

1. Stock up on the right gear for outdoor activities:

For running apparel and accessories, head to TrySports. They’re running a promotion right now on The Big Three: shoes, socks, and Footbalance insoles. Buy all three and receive 20% off the package! According to TrySports, one of the most common reasons people lose track of their fitness goals is due to painful, nagging injuries, which can be easily prevented by ensuring proper fit for the correct shoe. TrySports offers a shoe-fitting process called the “Five Steps to the Perfect Fit.” By adding performance, moisture-wicking socks along with a customized insole, runners can improve the fit and support of their shoe even more.

TrySports Ladies Running Gear

Saucony Triump 12 shoes in Twilight, Footbalance custom insoles, pink Garmin Forerunner 10 GPS watch, Feetures! Elite light-cushion anatomical fight socks in Aruba blue and coral, Saucony Run Dry Daybreak Tank with twisted racerback, and Saucony Run Lux III shorts

The Try Thursdays Adventure Run is a great way to get outdoors, get some exercise, and #MakeItMayfaire! The first Thursday of every month through the summer, TrySports hosts the Adventure Run and scavenger hunt for tickets to win great prizes from area businesses, as well as the post-run expo with vendors, live music, giveaways, beer, food and other refreshments. Best of all, the run is non-competitive, so runners and walkers of all paces are welcome! The fun lasts from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and the adventure kicks off at 6:15 p.m.

TrySports Guys Running Gear

Brooks TrySports logo “Believe Achieve” shirt, Under Armour shorts, Saucony Triumph 12 shoes, Footbalance custom insoles, Garmin Forerunner 920 XT multi-sport GPS watch, Feetures! Elite socks in black

Looking to go a little faster on the road? Try two wheels! Bike Cycles offers bike sales—and bike repairs for those who already cycle. Locally owned since 2006, Bike Cycles supplies Wilmington with custom, mountain, tri, and road bikes, beach cruisers, as well as bike rentals for the day.

Eddie Bauer has plenty of clothing for hikes and treks, no matter the destination. The Travex line goes from the “Tarmac to Trail,” and was designed for being active in warm weather. The material is lightweight, moisture-wicking, and—bonus—it provides sun protection of UPF 50+. Travex features FlexIon fabric technology, which stretches and breathes to work with its wearer, making them more comfortable on the go. Whether made for trek or made for travel, each piece is designed for easy wear, easy care, and easy packing (it’s wrinkle-free!).

For flexibility, lean muscles, and peace of mind, yoga can’t be beat. Dick’s Sporting Goods exclusively purveys the CALIA line of yoga gear designed by country star Carrie Underwood. The collection’s tees, tights and tanks were created for easy transition from workout to everyday life and are especially on-trend. Try mixing, matching, and layering the pieces for a unique look that’s all your own.

2. Get your skin ready for a sun-kissed summer:

ULTA Beauty

We spoke with Carolyn Sutphen of ULTA Beauty to find out the store’s favorite picks for priming and protecting skin for summer sun. She recommends the Michael Todd Soniclear Cleansing System to remove all dead and/or dull skin from the winter, which will allow your skin to absorb your products better—including SPF. Michael Todd is a new brand to ULTA Beauty and the product is exclusive. Next, COOLA Makeup Setting Spray with SPF 30 keeps your makeup in place while providing sun protection. Plus, it’s made with organic natural ingredients and was designed to be weightless—so it doesn’t feel like wearing an additional product. Finally, care for lips with Sun Bum Coconut Sunscreen Lip Balm, which moisturizes already dry lips with added wind and sun protection. It smells great, too!

Summer heat means baring more skin. While freshly shaved legs feel and look great, actually shaving them is such a hassle! Van Davis Aveda Salon and Day Spa offers hair removal for every need. Headed for a bikini wax? Add on the Bikini Cool Down: Your therapist will cool and calm skin with tea tree compresses topped with a hydrating masque. While the skin recovers from the wax, your Van Davis therapist will help you relax and recover from stress with either a 15-minute scalp or foot massage.

While beach weather comes early in coastal Carolina, time off from work may not! UltraTan can assist in a head start on that perfect tan. In just under a minute, you can achieve an ideal bronze look with MysticTan spray tanning system. The process uses an airbrush motion and MagneTan Technology, providing a smooth, even and natural-looking tan. Mystic Tan’s formula is paraben-free and enriched with skin condition nutrients including aloe vera and antioxidants. Aroma options can add a pleasant, spa-like experience, too.

3. Fill your beach bag:

We love summer reading by the ocean! Barnes & Noble has a book for every reader. The top pick for this summer is to re-read Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird,” a Pulitzer-prize winning novel. Then check out Lee’s “Go Set a Watchman,” which will be released on July 14th. The book was originally written in the mid-1950s, but the manuscript was rediscovered in 2014. “Go Set a Watchman” can be pre-ordered in-store or online now.

“The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins is a best-selling thriller akin to “Gone Girl,” while David Baldacci’s “Memory Man” is full-on murder mystery. For biographies, Willie Nelson’s “It’s a Long Story: My Life” is sure to entertain as well as reveal insight into one of America’s music icons. “All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr weaves a tale of a blind French girl and a German boy whose paths collide in occupied France amidst the devastation of World War II. For suspense, attempted murder, and romance, turn to Nora Roberts’ “The Liar.”

Barnes and Noble describes David Brooks’ “The Road to Character” as a “story of 10 great lives that illustrate how character is developed, and how we can all strive to build rich inner lives, marked by humanity and moral depth.” Narrative nonfiction enthralls with “Dead Wake” by Erik Larson, an account of the sinking of the Lusitania in May 1915.

Nobel laureate Toni Morrison offers “God Help the Child,” a tale about the way childhood trauma shapes—or misshapes—the life of the adult. “Every Fifteen Minutes” by Lisa Scottoline uses fiction to peer into the damaged world of sociopaths through the eyes of Dr. Eric Parrish. And “At the Water’s Edge” by Sara Gruen (author of “Water for Elephants”), is an intense and heartfelt love story set during WWII in the Scottish Highlands.

Stock your bag with new shades from Sunglass Hut. Aviator styles are flattering on many faces, and round frames and flash lenses are on-trend this summer.

Belk has a plethora of beach towels, bathing suits and hats for the whole family. We’re loving men’s styles from Polo Ralph Lauren, and the selection of women’s cover ups is perfect for boating through the ICW.

Towne Toys

Finally, keep kids busy at the beach with unique games from Towne Toys. Bling2O goggles are super cute for pool or ocean swimming; pink and purple styles can make any chick a diva princess, while we love the dino goggles complete with horns! Classic sand and water wheels are always a hit, and the Nightball toys are a fun twist on the traditional: footballs and soccer balls that float, spin, and light-up!

Also pictured: Gertie, “The World’s Most Catchable Ball” with easy-grip texture; Djubi Jr. launch and catch net/ball game; Goodminton, “World’s Easiest Racquet Game” with fast and slow birdies

4. Decorate your outdoor space:

From patio furniture to entertaining in the sun room, our Mayfaire shops can help you decorate your outdoor space in your favorite style.

Pier 1 Echo Beach Collection

Pier 1’s Echo Beach Collection is versatile and durable. The furniture is handcrafted of synthetic rattan over a weatherproof support and rust-resistant wrought iron frame. The modern design goes with plenty of outdoor styles! Shown above is the sofa paired with an armless chair and ottoman. Fill a metal tub with Willow Spheres, and add plenty of matching throw pillows, a white lantern, and hydrangea to complete the look.

Pottery Barn’s Cabo Melamine dinnerware sets channel Mexican flair but are great for easy clean-up; the Playa Sea Life line offers coastal images from an octopus to a blowfish in carefree Melamine, too. Pair them with the Shell Umbrella Stand Chip and Dip bowl which attaches right to the umbrella stand to save room on the table. PB’s Octopus Drink Dispenser Stand is elegant with its silver arms; pour lemonade or sangria directly into the PB Classic Outdoor Drinkware set.

Take the setting up a notch with outdoor rugs, curtains and lighting from World Market. The store is famous for its global textures and patterns; rugs are available in rich hues like orange, teal or lilac. Outdoor lighting comes in all sorts of pretty options. Classic bulbs and Edison-style string lights are popular and timeless, while the Galvanized Metal Star string lights are rustic and whimsical. For a more earthy appeal, try the Rattan Orbs with micro LEDs or Natural Seagrass Hurricane Candleholders filled with flameless LED pillar candles.

5. Get outside with Mayfaire:

The Mayfaire Music on the Town concert series kicks off on Friday, May 22nd and runs every Friday through August 7th. From 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., join us on the Mayfaire Event Lawn for sounds from local bands for free! Bring your own blanket or chairs and pick up to-go food from one of Mayfaire’s 20 eateries. Atlanta Bread Company, Fox and Hound, and On the Border are offering a FREE kids meal with an adult meal purchase on to-go orders every Friday night for concert goers. Place your order between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. and ask for the Mayfaire Concert Meal Special. The first concert will be Machine Gun.

Mayfaire Music on the Town Concert

After the concert, put on your best glow for the Let’s Glow 5K at 8:30 p.m. on May 22nd! The route will be ablaze with glow zones featured throughout the course—a perfect team photo opportunity. Enjoy the run with glow sticks, black lights, music and an after party at Fox and Hound. It’s ideal for both experienced runners and first-time participants, walkers and runners of all ages and athletic abilities. Let’s Glow 5K proudly donates a portion of the proceeds to New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

story and photos by Bethany Turner 

The post Gear Up for Summer appeared first on Mayfaire Towncenter.

Throughout Sleepy’s 55-year history, the company has remained committed to making lives better through better sleep with its extensive selection of America’s top brands, including Sealy Posturepedic, Simmons Beautyrest, Stearns & Foster and more. Their innovative sleep products include the latest in cooling gel, latex and memory foam mattresses, like the world-famous Tempur-Pedic. Sleepy’s fast delivery service ensures you won’t have to wait to get a better night’s sleep, and their knowledgeable Mattress Professionals will guide you to your perfect mattress.

Sleepy’s is a privately-owned, fourth-generation company with over 900 retail locations in seventeen states from Maine to North Carolina. Sleepy’s offers consumers a fresh option when they shop for a new bed.

The post Sleepy’s Now Open appeared first on Mayfaire Towncenter.

Nina

Nina

On Nina:
Aqua skinny jeans, Fedora Boutique, $39.99
Lace-front off-white top, Fedora Boutique, $39.99
Teal and gold fringe necklace, Fedora Boutique, $28
Floral, heart-shaped sunglasses, Bijuju, $10
“Cut Through” red handbag, Bijuju, $35
Geo shape brushed metal gold bangle, Bijuju, $16
V hinge enamel bangle, Bijuju, $12
“Nothing is Impossible” cuff, Bijuju, $16
Teal stretch bracelet, Bijuju, $16

Lora

Lora

On Lora:
Ivory sleeveless fit and flare lace dress with polka dots, Fedora Boutique, $59.99
Tribal design necklace and earring set, Bijuju, $34
Gold and black sunglasses, Bijuju, $10
Mint bag with embossed buckle, Bijuju, $46
Anchor and helm cuff, Bijuju, $10
Enamel hinge bracelet, Bijuju, $10
Enamel hinge bangle, Bijuju, $14

Lora and Amanda

Amanda

Amanda

On Amanda:
Sleeveless printed skater dress in neon, Fedora Boutique, $44.99
Mint fan gem chandelier earrings, Bijuju, $16
Nautical bead stretch bracelets, Bijuju, $16
Bangle with mint epoxy rectangle, Bijuju, $14
Mint solid shoulder bag, Bijuju, $48

Sporty Chic Shoes, Belk

Lauren Ralph Lauren polka-dot navy Cheryl espadrille, Belk, $69
Michael Kors Olivia peanut leather slip-on, Belk, $135

Sassy Weekend Fun, Belk

Michael Kors Damita wedge sandal in watermelon, Belk, $99
Jack Rogers Lauren sandals in cork, Belk, $128

Night Out, Belk

Vince Camuto Carlotte pump in bright blue, Belk, $129
Guess Babbitta pump in pink multi floral with gold heel tip, Belk, $99

Josh, Coastal Urge

On Josh:
Patagonia P-6 logo cotton T-shirt, Coastal Urge, $35
Patagonia Stand Up shorts, 5″ inseam, Coastal Urge, $59
Olukai Ohana flip-flops, Coastal Urge, $65
Patagonia Arbor pack 26L, Coastal Urge, $99
WB Flag trucker hat with Wrightsville Beach coordinates, Coastal Urge, $19.99

Josh, Coastal Urge

On Josh:
Patagonia Fezzman’s shirt, Coastal Urge, $59
Patagonia All-wear shorts, 8″ inseam, Coastal Urge, $59
Reactor Fallout 2 watch, Coastal Urge, $500 (all watches 20% off)
Sanuk Cassius navy shoes, Coastal Urge, $70
Costa Cuts sunglasses, Coastal Urge, $199
Croakies Spec Cord, Coastal Urge, $4.99

Tim, Jos. A. Bank Clothiers

Tim, Jos. A. Bank Clothiers

On Tim:
Light blue Tropical Blend Tailored Fit suit, Jos. A. Bank, $695
Green checkered tie, Jos. A. Bank, $59.50
Green mid-calf mercerized cotton Italian socks, Jos. A. Bank, $13.50
Light pink tailored fit dress shirt, Jos. A. Bank, $60

Men’s Casual Shoes, Belk

Polo Ralph Lauren Vaughn Lace-up Oxford, green and chambray, Belk, $59-69

Saddles and Loafers, Belk

Cole Haan Clayton Saddle Oxford, in Woodbury and Blazer Blue, Belk, $168
Cole Haan Pinch Penny Loafer, in Chestnut and British Tan, Belk, $158

Wingtips, Belk

Cole Haan Copley Wingtip Derby in black, Belk, $148
Steve Madden Franky Wingtip Oxford in tan, Belk, $70

story and photos by Bethany Turner
models: Amanda Moose, Nina Murray, Lora Plauché
Tim Schneiders, Josh Watkins

The post Summer Stylin’ appeared first on Mayfaire Towncenter.

Mayfaire can help you celebrate the graduates in your life as well as pay thanks to mom and Nana. From personalized gifts courtesy of Lauren & Elizabeth to practical presents from hhgregg, you can #MakeItMayfaire and find the perfect item for your loved one. Here are a few of our favorite ways to show you care (tip, to see the gift ideas in greater detail, click on the photo to enlarge it):

Sweet Sayings & Trinkets

Edward’s Hallmark offers a wide array of Vera Bradley totes, from the classic Vera paisley to new styles that range from natural textures to brightly colored leathers with cute cutouts. Francesca’s has a slew of clutches and purses to choose from, too. Bonus: Each store carries plenty to fill mom’s goodie bag with!

Edward’s Hallmark

Vera Bradley Hipster bag, Petal Paisley, $60
 Blue ceramic candle holder, $7.95 with any purchase (regularly $12.95)
Vera Bradley Agenda, May 2015-December 2016, $25
Vera Bradley Gel Pens, Summer 2015 style, $8
“Mama Love is Nothing to Mess With” coffee mug, $14.95
“Sooner or Later We All Quote Our Mothers” plaque, $11.99
Willow Tree “Guardian” sculpture, “Love and Protect Thee Forever”, $31.50
Woodwick Sweet Pea candle, crackles as it burns, $9.95
Vera Bradley heart earrings, 14k gold-filled hooks, $24

Edward’s Hallmark

Vera Bradley Mandy bag, Marakesh, $70
Vera Bradley yellow accordion wallet, $48
Nana/Grandma coffee mug, microwave and dishwasher safe, $9.95 each
Crabtree and Evelyn Ultra-Moisturizing Hand Therapy, Nantucket Briar scent, $20
Vera Bradley Ball Point Pen, Marakesh, $19

Francesca’s

“Home is Where Your Mom Is” tea towel, $10
“Why a Daughter Needs a Mom: Little Ways to Say I Love You” coupon book by Gregory E. Lang, $5.99
“Why a Son Needs a Mom” by Gregory E. Lang, $5.99
“Home is Where My Mom Is” candle; scented with gardenia flowers, greenery, fruit and sweet cream; $10
“Good Moms have sticky floors, dirty ovens, and happy kids” spoon rest, $16
“A Hug from Mom Lasts Forever” glass tray, $18

Personalized Presents

Remember before you went to summer camp, Mom wrote your initials on the tags of all of your clothes? Well, monograms are a timeless (and grown-up!) way to personalize just about anything. In Mayfaire Town Center, we have Lauren & Elizabeth, a local small business that offers all sorts of items and styles for personalization—perfect for grads and mothers alike! Embroidery on in-store purchases ranges from $8-15.

Lauren & Elizabeth

Bright graphic bookbag, $32.99 (Also see the Owen & Fred duffel bag in-store for guys! $99)
Burlap bags, “Congratulations Grad!” and “Thanks for All You Do!” (removable), with additional tag for embroidery, $17.99 each
Beach towels, $29.99
Rustic wooden frames, vary in size, $28.99-51.99; add hand-painted details such as monogram or name, $10-20
Candles, $17.99-26.99; add vinyl monogram, $8-10

Lauren & Elizabeth burlap bag and NC frame; both can be personalized!

Photographic Memories

One of the joys of motherhood, though bittersweet, is watching your babies grow up right before your eyes. You blink and they’re in middle school; wake up and they’re headed to prom. Likewise, graduates have a great big world before them just waiting for the capture. Cameras and photo albums, then, make great gifts for both moms and grads, so they can treasure the memories they create for a lifetime.

hhgregg

16.3 MP Smart Camera with Built-in Wi-Fi for instant social sharing, 21x Long Zoom, 3″ LCD Hybrid Touchscreen, $229.99 everyday low (SRP $259.99)

hhgregg also offers a wide variety of camera cases, as well as storage cards from 8 to 32 GB, to complete your gift.

Edward’s Hallmark

Congrats 2015 gift bag, $3.99
Picture and tassel frame, $29.95
Reusable autograph tote, “Sometimes the Journey is the Best Part”, $5.99
Book, “Stop! Put Your Pencils Down: A Guide to Surviving and Thriving After Graduation”, $12.95
Slim photograph albums in various colors and styles, $9.95 each

Did you know you can also have photos taken at a professional studio in Mayfaire? Take graduation photos or pictures for mom at Portrait Innovations. The studio is offering 10% off all purchases for graduates and rising seniors with coupon. Plus, their Mother’s Day special can’t be beat! Get 43 portraits for only $14.99 plus a free 11 oz. portrait mug with coupon; expires Sunday, May 10th. Call (910) 256-8197 to schedule an appointment.

Accessories with Style and Quality

REEDS Jewelers has been family owned in Wilmington, NC, since 1946. For mom and grad jewelry, head to Mayfaire for big-star quality with hometown service. Watches will keep graduates on track with their new schedules, while there are plenty of heartfelt bracelets and necklaces with mom in mind.

REEDS Jewelers, men’s styles

•  William Henry Mokume Leather bracelet, limited edition, finely braided with bead and bolt-action clasp crafted from hand-forged mokume gane (the ancient forging technique once used to decorate the hilts of samurai swords), stainless-steel fittings, inset citrine; $350
• Dinosaur bone arrow pendant on chain, limited edition, sterling silver, interwoven with exotic and unique forged metals derived from the ancient arts of sword-making; $290.
• Lancet “Yurman Wave” limited edition knife by David Yurman and William Henry. Sterling silver scales on titanium frame, “wave” Damascus blade with ZDP-189 core and stainless steel fittings, sapphires; $1,850
  All William Henry products come with a certificate of authenticity.
• TAGHeuer men’s Aqua Racer Caliber 16, 43mm, automatic, water resistant to 300mm (1,000 feet), chronograph, sapphire crystal, surgical grade stainless steel, all TAGHeuer watches are Swiss movements; $3,200
• Citizen men’s Eco-Drive (energy capacitor on inside), lasts up to 30 years, five year warranty on movement, brown leather strap, 40mm, Japanese movement; $235

REEDS Jewelers, women’s styles

Marc Jacobs fashion watch, rose tone, quartz; $225
Michael Kors fashion watch, gold tone with thin tortoiseshell band, $145
Coordinates collection, brass and silver plated, Wrightsville Beach coordinates in-stock although specific coordinates can be ordered (allow about four weeks); necklace, $135; bracelet, $155; ring style also available (not pictured), $85

REEDS Jewelers, Dogeared collection for moms

Dogeared sterling silver and gold-plated necklaces with sweet sayings for mom, $50-100

REEDS Jewelers, 2015 Pandora for Mother’s Day

Pandora Bouquet of Love set: reads “First my mother, Forever my friend”; comes with bracelet, two Shimmering Rose clips, “Mother & Friend” charm, and jewelry box; $195
Pandora Mother’s Rose charm, reads “First my mother, Forever my friend”; $65

A Day at the Spa

Massage Envy

Nothing quite compares to a session of relaxation for moms and busy students alike. In Mayfaire, Massage Envy and Glo MedSpa know just how to ease the stress away and help guests indulge in skin care. Now is the perfect time to give the gift of spa treatment with spring specials under way!

Now through May 9th at Massage Envy, receive a free one-hour session, including facial or massage, with any $150 Massage Envy purchase.

At Glo MedSpa, purchase an Elastiderm eye cream and receive a Hydrate or Hydrate Luxe moisturizer in a complimentary Obagi cosmetics bag. Or book a relaxing Anti-gravity Facial with Venus Freeze for $150 and receive a $25 gift card to use toward any product purchase. Valid through May 31st, 2015.

Also in Mayfaire, Bath and Body Works carries at-home face, body and hair care. Stop by the store to check out the True Blue Spa line, mood-soothing aromatherapy products, and more.

Did you know that we also offers gift cards that work across the entire shopping center*, even at restaurants and spas? In values from $10 to $500, Mayfaire gift cards allow your loved one to #MakeItMayfaire in their own special way! Mayfaire gift cards can be purchased at the Mayfaire Management Office conveniently located at 6835 Conservation Way between Barnes & Noble and ULTA, Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. For more details or to buy gift cards online**, visit http://www.mayfairetown.com/gift-cards/

*Mayfaire gift cards cannot be redeemed at Brixx Wood Fired Pizza, Regal Cinemas, or Time Warner Cable.
**A total of $2.50 fee (processing, shipping & handling) will be added to the price of each card purchased online.

story and photos by Bethany Turner

The post Memorable Gifts for Moms and Grads appeared first on Mayfaire Towncenter.

GUACAMOLE
Recipe contributed by On The Border

2 brown, ripe Haas avocados
1 lime, cut into wedges
Diced tomatoes
Diced onion (Tip from a restaurateur: Always rinse onions, it makes them taste milder!)
Diced jalapeños
Cilantro
Salt
Tortilla chips

1. Split the Haas avocados and remove the core. Scoop the flesh into a bowl. (Williams-Sonoma has several kinds of avocado tools to help!)
2. Add the diced veggies (amount is up to you), salt, and juice from lime wedges to taste.
3. Mix the ingredients until the avocado is about 80% mashed and 20% chunky.
4. If you like, add garlic or sour cream for a bit of extra flavor, to taste.
5. Serve with tortilla chips.

RANCHERO CHICKEN TACOS
Recipe contributed by Fox and Hound

First round ingredients:
2 pounds of chicken, cooked
One 10-oz. can of diced tomatoes with green chilies
Two 8-oz. jars of salsa (choose your favorite)
Half bunch of cilantro
Juice of one lime

Second round ingredients:
Corn tortillas
Pico de Gallo (can be homemade by combining diced tomatoes, jalapeños, red onion, white onion and green onion, as well as cilantro, cumin, lime juice, and salt and pepper)
Shredded cheese, Mexican blend
Cilantro
Lime slices

1. Place all of the first round ingredients in a Crock Pot on medium heat with water to cover.
2. Stir every 30 minutes; stir roughly so the chicken shreds. When all of the chicken is shredded, it’s done. Reduce the juice to your desired consistency.
3. Grill the corn tortillas and fill them with prepared chicken, pico de gallo, and shredded cheese.
4. Garnish the tacos with fresh cilantro and lime slices.
5. If you like, serve it with tortilla chips and salsa as a side!

ZOË’S SANGRIA

Recipe contributed by Zoë’s Kitchen

1 gallon Zoë’s Limeade
1 bottle red wine (choose your favorite)
2-3 cups fresh fruit, such as grapes, strawberries, oranges and apples

1. Use an extra large beverage pitcher, filling it halfway with ice.
2. Pour in the gallon of Zoë’s fresh-squeezed limeade and the bottle of wine.
3. Add the 2-3 cups of fresh fruit.
4. Stir and serve, garnished with additional slices of fresh fruit.

KEY LIME MARGARITA (one serving)

Using mix from Williams-Sonoma

1.25 oz. tequila (choose your favorite!)
1.25 oz. triple sec (or orange liqueur, such as Grand Marnier or Cointreau)
Williams-Sonoma Margarita Mix, Key Lime
Williams-Sonoma Margarita Salt, Classic Pacific Sea Salt
One lime, wedged
*also try Williams-Sonoma Margarita Mix in strawberry, pomegranate-cherry, or mango-passion fruit for a sweeter twist, or Margarita Salt in lime or chili flavors.

1. Use a lime wedge to rim a 12-oz. glass with juice before dipping the rim of the glass in Williams-Sonoma Margarita Salt.
2. Fill the glass with ice and set aside.
3. Fill a cocktail shaker a quarter of the way with ice. Add tequila and triple sec, plus 4 ounces of Williams-Sonoma Key Lime Margarita Mix. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the contents into the salted glass over the fresh ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve.

The Fresh Market

All of the ingredients you need can be found at The Fresh Market and Harris Teeter! Williams-Sonoma offers a selection of fine kitchen tools to help you complete these recipes, too.

For a chance to win a $100 Mayfaire gift card, share a photo of your favorite Mayfaire restaurant dishes or refreshing happy hour cocktails to our contest page with the hashtag #MakeItMayfaire. Share the contest with friends to win bonus entries! Starting April 27th, you have one week to share your food/drink photo–but there are four more weeks of contests and four more gift cards to try for through the month of May! Happy snapping!

story and photos by Bethany Turner

The post Spice Up The Kitchen appeared first on Mayfaire Towncenter.

Congratulations to the winners Kirsten, Wendy, Keri, Tibor, & Kathleen!

We hope you will continue to Make It Mayfaire!

The post Mayfaire Photo Contest appeared first on Mayfaire Towncenter.