Boston Archives - Page 4 of 7

Courtyard Boston Downtown

November 11, 2014 by Emily 1 Comment

The night before I moved into college in downtown Boston many moons ago, I stayed with my parents at the Courtyard Marriott right on Tremont Street in the Theater District. Many of my classmates ended up living in the hotel that year [funny story:: Emerson over-accepted!], and I lined up in its ballroom the morning of my graduation. Needless to say, it’s a hotel that is close to my heart.
And it just got a HUGE makeover.

Let’s back up though:: What is now the Courtyard Boston Downtown was first built in 1925 and served as an Elks Lodge and Hotel… the most expensive and lavish of its kind at that point. It became The Bradford Hotel after the Wall Street Crash of 1929, and has been home to a number of other chains since, until being turned into a Courtyard by Marriott in 2006.

We took a step back to the hotel’s early days last week to celebrate the grand re-opening post its multi-million dollar renovation. I’ll let the video do the talking…

We were lucky enough to spend a night in one of the GORGEOUS recently renovated rooms [they do not disappoint!], but what’s most notable about this downtown space is its capacity as a venue. It now boasts 7 meeting rooms totaling 13,000 square feet of function space. Boston brides:: Do NOT overlook this hotel! You cannot beat the atmosphere or the incredible downtown location, and I know should we have chosen to get married in the city, this would be at the top of our list. It’s truly a hidden gem.

The Empire Ballroom (pictured above) on the first floor is one of the loveliest, most versatile function rooms I have seen in Boston. Just a day before the party, I was working at a career fair in it– totally different vibe!

Upstairs, the 5th floor function space offers multiple additional venue rooms, including The Washington Ballroom with a view of Back Bay [PERFECT for cocktail hours].

[ old phone booths on the 5th floor! ]

There is nothing quite like being a tourist in your own city. We had the best stay at the Courtyard Marriott Downtown [amazing mid-week refresher], but I will most certainly be frequenting it for dinner & cocktails at its super chic Post No. 10 bar and restaurant [don’t forget breakfast after your stay!].

Whether you’re visiting Boston as an out-of-towner, are looking for a wedding/shower/bachelorette party venue, or just need a mini escape close to home, I cannot think of a hotel more charming—not to mention convenient—than this to recommend. I am blown away by what a transformation it has gone through– it completely celebrates its roaring 20s roots with an added modern sleekness.

[ Courtyard Boston Downtown ]
[ 275 Tremont Street ]
[ Boston, MA 02116 ]

Full disclosure: I was provided a complimentary one-night stay at the Courtyard Boston. All opinions expressed are my own. Thank you for supporting the businesses that support shell chic’d!

The Paint Bar

September 8, 2014 by Emily 3 Comments

Here are the facts:
-My grandmother was an artist.
-My mother is an artist.
-I am the furthest possible thing from an artist.

So when The Paint Bar invited BF and I in for a class, I was preeeetty hesitant. We’d done a Paint Nite at a local bar before [he hung my finished painting in his bathroom… don’t think that was a compliment], but I’d heard great things about this brick-and-mortar location for one-night-only painting classes, so I eventually said, why not?

So. much. fun.

If you’ve done a Paint Nite at a Boston bar, you sort of know the drill– The Paint Bar’s set-up is similar:: Register for the class that fits your schedule [you can preview the paintings on the calendar as well, so be sure to pick something you’ll be excited to display!]. | Show up, pump your paint, grab a drink at their cash bar, and the rest is a breeze! The instructor walks you through the entire painting, stroke by stroke. It’s not quite as easy as paint-by-the-numbers, but it’s pretty darn close!

Mia was our instructor and made the night extra fun [I mean, anyone that’s going to play me some early 2000s *NSync & B.Spears is a winner in my heart]. What I really loved, though, was hearing about how it’s a family business… and you can’t go wrong with any instructor in this family.

Boston Date Night Ideas

Ok I’m not saying mine was fantabulous or anything, but it’s a HECK ‘O a lot better than anything I could have attempted without instruction. The wine probably helped as well.

I’m already looking forward to planning a night out with girlfriends here [dying to try this sailboat class], but it was PERFECT for a date night too. BF told me he’d definitely do it again… holding him to that.

With two locations, it’s even easier to book a class.

[ The Paint Bar Newbury Street ]
[ 248 Newbury Street ]
[ Boston, MA 02116 ]

[ The Paint Bar Newton ]
[ 823 Washington Street ]
[ Newtonville, MA 02460 ]
[ 617-467-5777 ]

Can’t wait to see what you all make! xo

Full disclosure: I was provided a complimentary class at The Paint Bar. All opinions expressed are my own.

Dinner & Shakespeare on the Common

August 4, 2014 by Emily 4 Comments

For years, before I even moved to Boston, I’ve had it on my bucket list to see Shakespeare on the Common. Now in its 19th year, Commonwealth Shakespeare Company offers free performances on the Boston Common for a few weeks every summer. This summer’s play is Twelfth Night, and I’m SO excited to say I finally made it to one– and it exceeded all of my expectations!

Not to discount the phenomenal talent of the cast and crew [this performance was so enjoyable– whether or not you’re a Shakespeare fan, I promise it’ll have you unable to hold back laughter], but the atmosphere is what really makes this experience something else. Bring your chairs, your blankets, but most importantly, your picnic dinner!

The Ritz-Carlton, across the street from the park, spoiled me recently, and invited us to try out one of their new Picnic Baskets to Go, put together by the Ritz’s Artisan Bistro. I. Was. In. Heaven. Smoked salmon, antipasti and artisanal cheeses, mini steak wraps, marinated fresh vegetables, MACARONS for dessert– beyond perfect dinner if you ask me! It was such a treat– and made from almost all local ingredients. Different packages are available, and you can place the order for your basket(s) in advance directly through Artisan Bistro [617-574-7176]– then pick them up right before heading across the street to grab your seat for the show!

These cuties– Dariel + Kayte!

Twelfth Night is running on the Boston Common from now until August 10th, Tuesdays through Saturdays at 8pm and Sundays at 7pm. It is totally free and a Boston experience not to be missed!

For reserved “Friends Section” chairs, special events and more information click here.

post script. If you have time before the show [while you’re there anyway picking up your picnic dinner!], stop by the Ritz-Carlton’s Avery Bar for one of their Viola cocktails– THE most refreshing thing I’ve sipped on lately, a perfect mixture of rum, coconut water, cucumber, lime, and agava… and perfectly themed for Twelfth Night!

Full disclosure: I was provided a complimentary picnic dinner by the Ritz Carlton. The performance is free to the general public already. All opinions expressed are my own.

Love You a Yacht

July 30, 2014 by Emily 13 Comments

I’m so excited to finally be able to share some photos from our Yacht City photoshoot with Boutikey!

For those of you who don’t know [ahem, missed my review], Boutikey is a fun new app that connects shoppers to local boutiques. How do you normally hear when your favorite independent stores are having sales or promotions? Maybe some have an email list… maybe some are active on social media… but 9 times out of 10 I know I won’t hear about that sale unless I walk in the doors. Until Boutikey came around, that is. Now I can follow all of my favorite boutiques on one social app– to hear when they’re having big sales, when they get new shipments in [+ what!], when they’re having special events, and more.

And if you don’t trust Boutikey to introduce you to some hidden Boston shopping gems, maybe you’ll trust some Boston fashion bloggers? A handful of us were paired up with local shops to highlight some of their best summer looks– mine comes from Mint Julep [already a favorite– lucky me!]. They have locations in Coolidge Corner + Harvard Square in Beantown, plus the Lower East Side and West Village if I’ve got an NYC readers here! Such pretty clothes–dresses especially–at a wide variety of price points, and accessories to BOOT.

[ With the darling Kelsey of Tickle Me Pink ]

[ And with the fab ~~Katherine~~ K-Tab of Style-Tab ]

If you’re in Boston, be sure to download Boutikey on your smartphone [it’s free!], and if not, follow them on Twitter— they’re expanding to new cities very soon!

– – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

post script. Last week to vote for shell chic’d in The Boston A-List awards!

post post script. We took Ubers all day during this photoshoot– to + from locations, hair + makeup, etc–talk about a godsend! Remember that today is the last day to enter the ideeli x Uber ultimate summer night out giveaway + snag $30 in Uber credits for ALL new users with code ShellChicd! Details here.

The Brunch Diaries: BHC Brunch Cruise

July 29, 2014 by Emily 27 Comments

Two of my favorite things? Brunch, and being on the water. Like you didn’t know that.

Last weekend, boyfiance and I headed to the Waterfront to board one Boston Harbor Cruises’ Weekend Brunch Cruises. My first reaction:: What took us so long to do this?!

I’ve used BHC to get to the Boston Harbor Islands for many summers past, but I’ve clearly neglected to take advantage of all of the other cruises they have to offer. The two-hour brunch cruise gave us plenty of time to relax and enjoy our meal inside AND sit on the deck to watch the sites and listen to David‘s hysterical tour + commentary when we were ready [mimosa in hand, of course].

I feel like BHC has an undeserved reputation of being for tourists only. So false. That being said, if you are visiting Boston, I highly recommend taking a cruise with BHC! But if you’re a local like me, there’s almost even more value. I’ve lived in Boston proper for 7 years and yet learned SO many fun new things about our city on this tour. Also definitely laughed three times as much as the average out-of-towner on board… #bostonjokez.

[ not even kidding a little bit when I tell you this boat gave me wedding-decor inspiration ]

[ terrible, awful view ]

[ ittyyyy bitty lighthouse! ]

[ Lilly Pulitzer Murfee Scarf + Warby Parker Sunnies c/o ]

Even on the cloudiest of days, we still had the best time. Next on our list? Sunset Cruise.

– – – – – – – – – – – – – –

[ GIVEAWAY ]

I’m giving away TWO tickets for a BHC cruise of your choice! Just leave me a comment telling me which cruise you would go on.

For a second entry, tweet about the giveaway + let me know that you did so in a second comment. [ Sample tweet:: Win @cruiseBHC tickets from @emilygeaman’s blog! http://wp.me/p1mrmu-2mB #Boston ]

I’ll pick a winner through Random.org + announce it next week!

Full disclosure: I was provided two BHC tickets for the purpose of this review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Summer By Car [ & UBER Credits for You! ]

July 28, 2014 by Emily Leave a Comment

When the weather turns lovely in Boston, I take every opportunity I have to walk. Partly because why not enjoy the warm days while they last, and party because MBTA stations in the muggy, humid heat with all of the confused loud tourists are my own personal hell.

But then there are always ~~a handful~~ a lot, of days in which I’m running late. Caught in the rain. Trying to pack too many activities and meetings into one day. Dying a slow and painful death due to uncomfortable shoes. Sweating because of the 94-degree heat. And it is on those days that Uber becomes a LIFESAVER.

In case you’ve been living under a rock [or, ok, are from a city that’s newer to this service than Boston is], Uber is smartphone app that uses a GPS system to find you a cab closest to your current location. Registration is free, but you enter your credit card information from the start, so there is no actual money exchange during your ride. No more stressing about not being able to catch a cab because you don’t have cash on you!

[ Holly Golightly so stressed because she didn’t catch an Uber ]

All my Boston readers, especially, listen up:: Uber is currently hosting a sweepstakes with ideeli– you and 5 friends could win the ultimate summer night out in the city. $300 in ideeli credits, a $300 gift card to Stella [one of my FAVORITE South End restaurants], and a Uber SUV for the night are up for grabs! Enter here— contest ends THIS Wednesday!

For everyone else, Uber is offering new users a $30 credit(!!). Sign up through the app with code ShellChicd, or follow this link.

So whether you need a quick cab so you’re not late [and sweaty] for that dinner date, or you’re planning a fun night out with girlfriends in the city and want to show up in a sleek black-on-black SUV, Uber is the way to go. Literally. Now put ON those heels and don’t even think about bringing bandaids!

[ Cat off to find an Uber instead ]

Full disclosure: I received Uber credits in exchange for writing this post; all opinions expressed are my own. I use Uber 3+ times a week on my own free will.

Happy Hour

May 27, 2014 by Emily Leave a Comment

There are a number of stereotypes that circle the Boston nightlife scene, but overall, I think it’s a pretty fun city to go out in. My favorite time to hit the town though? Call me a grandma, but it’s totally happy hour.

I love pieces that can take me from the office to the bar, and a chic tee + blazer are staples for such. I paired these with skinny jeans and flats during the work day, but then added some fun lace shorts and heels once 5pm hit.

[ outfit details ]
Boyfriend Blazer, thrifted [similar] | Striped Tee, Apt. 9 c/o Kohl’s | Lace Shorts, Lilly Pulitzer [similar] | Pearl Necklace, thrifted [similar] | Strappy Dress Heels, LC Lauren Conrad c/o Kohl’s

My favorite places to happy hour? The Charlesmark for cocktails | Tia’s and Boston Sail Loft for boozing by the water | Legal Harborside‘s roof deck for beautiful sights | and City Bar for drinks than can easily turn to dinner!

I hope all of you here on #DestinationSummer had a blast checking out greater Boston with me this week! Next stop? New York City!

Today I pass the torch off to Vera from Lady and the Blog— I’m SO excited to see the big apple through her eyes. Some of my best friends from college live in NYC, and I’m always looking for new areas of the city to explore when I go down to visit them. Enjoy the ride there you all!

This post is sponsored by Kohl’s as a part of their #DestinationSummer campaign. Thank you for supporting the brands that support shell chic’d!

The Boston Harbor

May 27, 2014 by Emily 6 Comments

You’ve probably heard of a little thing known as the Boston Harbor. The Boston Tea Party? The Boston Massacre? Yeah they all happened right about here. It’s an area rich with history, but it’s also my absolute favorite part of the city. I love grabbing a coffee + breakfast, doing the HarborWalk, and parking on one of the hundred benches to eat with a view of the boats coming in and out.

[ outfit details ]
Sailboat Skirt, LC Lauren Conrad c/o Kohl’s | Tee, Old Navy | Straw Tote Bag, Old Navy [similar] | Boat Shoes, Sperry Top-Sider

This entrance to the harbor’s marina is too fun with all of the buoys! Perfect place to sport this nautical LC Lauren Conrad skirt.

Some may not agree that the Waterfront area deserves to be called its own neighborhood, but it has a ton going for it! Folks will argue about the barriers as well, but I think of the Waterfront as anything along the North End side of the HarborWalk, until Fort Point and the beginning of Seaport.

[ neighborhood summary ]
who:: Anyone from you, yourself, + I, to a romantic walk along the water with a sig-other, to a big group of friends.
what:: Tons of tourist attractions [Boston Aquarium | Tea Party Museum | Whale Watches ], or just walk + enjoy the views without a plan.
when:: It is ch-ch-ch-CHILLY along the water when the weather ain’t so hot, so I tend to wait until spring + summer to embrace it.
where:: Brunch at Joe’s American | Lunch at The Barking Crab | Fancier dinner at Rowes Wharf Sea Grille. In the summertime, the Boston Harbor Hotel’s live music and outdoor movies projected on the big screen right over the harbor are not to be missed!
wear:: If you’re strolling the waterway at night, bundle up! That sea breeze is no joke.

This post is sponsored by Kohl’s as a part of their #DestinationSummer campaign. Thank you for supporting the brands that support shell chic’d!

#DestinationSummer

May 26, 2014 by Emily 7 Comments

First stop:: BOSTON

image via

I’ve teamed up with Kohl’s for their #DestinationSummer road trip across America, where they’ll be stopping on a different blog in a different city every couple days, and I am SO excited to be kicking it off in the Bean! Because, when have I ever not been jazzed to chat about Boston?

Throughout today + tomorrow, I’ll be sharing a couple of my fav Beantown neighborhoods, choice things to do in the city, and one special day-trip idea.

Let’s start the series in one of the underdog neighborhoods of Boston: The South End

I think one of the best things about the South End is the fact that it’s not a tourist destination [no offense touristas!], yet has so much character and is a BEAUTIFUL area to walk around on summer evenings. These were taken on one of the sweet little brownstone-lined streets on our way to dinner.

[ outfit details ]
No-Iron Striped Oxford Shirt, Chaps c/o Kohl’s | White Skirt, H&M [similar] | Tortoise Piper Sunglasses c/o Warby Parker | Eat Cake For Breakfast Tote, Kate Spade [similar] | Nude Pumps, BCBG [similar]

[ neighborhood summary ]
who:: Tons of restaurants + bars make it a great date night neighborhood. My fiance often meets me at my office on the edge of the South End, and we walk to the main-traffic streets [Washington, Shawmut, Tremont].
what:: EAT. The South End is foodie-central. It’s not so much a stroll + shop area, though there are a few hidden gems of specialty stores.
when:: #DestinationSummer of course!
where:: Asking me to pick a favorite South End restaurant is like asking me to pick a favorite child, but if I HAD to, then brunch at South End Buttery | lunch at The Gallows [Thurs-Sat] | dinner at Toro [be prepared for a line– they don’t take reservations!] | and drinks at The Beehive. Shop for amazing skincare products + makeup at Follain and vintage cookbooks + kitchenware at Farm & Fable.
wear:: It’s a pretty business casual-looking crowd in the South End. I’m usually coming from the office, so that’s easy for me. To make this outfit a little more fun and date-night appropriate, I untucked this oxford and tied it up for a flirty twist 🙂

Stay tuned for more glimpses of Boston later today + tomorrow, and in the meantime, check us out on Pinterest!

Farm & Fable

March 10, 2014 by Emily 7 Comments

You guys. I have discovered my new happy place.

Farm & Fable is a new[ish] vintage cookbook and kitchenware store in the South End [if you like Anthropologie’s home section, you’ll never want to leave this shop]. Owner Abby hosted the best little get-together for some Boston Bloggers in the space, and I already can’t wait to get back there.

We made mulled wine + spice sachets and just had the best time. I’m dying to return for one of Abby’s cooking classes or Cookbook Club! This is a Boston gem really not to be missed.

I should mention they carry new cookbooks in addition to vintage ones, so please oh please for the love of all things holy and endangered, buy your cookbooks at a place like this. There are so few independent bookstores left and it hurts my heart to hear you say that you can get it cheaper on Amazon! #shoplocal

[ Farm & Fable ]
[ 251 Shawmut Avenue ]
[ Boston, MA 02118 ]

Courtyard Boston Downtown

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The Paint Bar

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Dinner & Shakespeare on the Common

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Love You a Yacht

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The Brunch Diaries: BHC Brunch Cruise

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Summer By Car [ & UBER Credits for You! ]

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Happy Hour

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The Boston Harbor

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#DestinationSummer

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Farm & Fable

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