Good 2BU

I woke up to, what I considered, a normally planned day.  I get up, hit the kids' school, and get my hair done.  Am I the only mom out there who runs into chaos because in my good intentions I over plan, and do just "one more thing" which ends up throwing everything else off?  Well, that is exactly what happened! The chaos that I had created, however, quickly turned into a blessed rejuvenation that I had never before experienced.

Finally making it through traffic, and miraculously finding a parking space right away, I frantically approached the front desk at 2BU Salon and Spa where I was to get a cut and style.  The calm-natured greeter's smile and soothing voice immediately put me at ease, as I checked in for my appointment with Stacey, my Master Stylist.  It didn't hurt either that I was offered the choices of mint-cucumber water (with or without ice - really!); herbal iced tea; espresso; and several varieties of wine. Wow! Am I being secretly filmed for The Housewives of Scottsdale? I've never seen anything like this locally, and my Divalicious self is now very impressed!

The atmosphere was full of fragrant calming aromas, and while I was embracing this energy, Stacey immediately approached me to introduce herself; as this was my first visit to this salon.  Ah! A professional who's serious about her business.  I think I'm in love!  I'm informed that while my stylist finishes up with a previous client, her assistant will get me started on the Aroma Sensory Experience.  Wha-who?  I quickly learn that AVEDA has their own Signature Sensory Ritual.  It starts when you walk into the salon and consists of Aveda Comforting Tea or beverage, Hand Massage, Chair Massage, Make-up Finishing Touch, Heated Aroma Towel, Personalized Chakra or Aveda Aroma Sensory Experience.  All I can say is, well, I'm speechless.  This is more than I expected!

After the hand and neck massage with my choice of aromatherapy, I could barely walk over to the bowl to get my hair washed....I mean, my head massaged! Yes, the warm towel around my neck with the carefully chosen sensory aroma tantalizing my senses almost had me floating away into Divalicious Bliss-ville.  Ahhhh! Hmmmm! Oh! The gentle massage of my scalp felt revitalizing!  I thought the hand and chair massage was awesome, but this..wow! I could feel my pores opening up and receiving all that this experience had for me. Think I'll stay here a while.  Huh? Done? Do I have to?

At this point, I'm practically carried back to my Master Stylist's chair. (Do they get paid extra for this?!)  I was in another time, another place; and it took me a minute to come back to where I was and what this mission was all about. Stacey had consulted with me before going to the wash bowl, so we did a quick revisit of what we had agreed upon. Let the styling begin!

I was pampered through out with refills on my tea, refreshing water, and of course, the effervescence of my sensory aroma. Once the styling was complete, I was led to the front of the salon to have my make-up touched up.  This is Genius!  One of my biggest pet peeves when going to get my hair done is how my makeup always gets jacked up. I had actually taken my makeup with me to touch it up when I got back into my car.  No need for me to use my makeup, though.  My Master Stylist chose a beautiful bronzer to highlight my features; and touched up my cheeks and eyes.  I walked out looking and feeling better than when I had initially walked into the salon.  An incredible transformation had taken place!

The staff was attentive and inviting.  Everyone was smiling.  Clients were happy.  The General Manager had made it a point to come say hello to me early on, and to thank me for coming in as a new client. I loved that extension of hospitality, and a real classy act!


Salon experience is not about offering a bottled water or glass of cheap wine that gives a headache to your client; although I kindly thank you for the offer.  It's about the customer service, the energy, the staff, the atmosphere.  When I walked in to 2BU Salon and Spa, it was all about me.  I didn't ask for it, but I sure did receive it! 2BU Salon and Spa has tapped into what's important to customers, whether a man or a woman.  When we choose any customer-related service, that's exactly what we want - service. I didn't just feel special at 2BU Salon and Spa.  I felt attended to, like I was the most important client there.

I did not just go get my hair "did".  I had an awesome experience that I look forward to going back to and experiencing again. (This time, I think I may get a color. Ssshh!).  2BU Salon and Spa is located inside Scottsdale Fashion Square, on the lower level, next to Barney's New York. This salon is a definite Diva Destination.  Prepare yourself to look and feel like one, as you experience what a salon and spa is all about. Yes, it's possible to have this delicious, Divalicious experience here in Arizona!

And, That is Divalicious!

Singles Mingle: Mystery Cupid Party

Who says you can't enjoy Valentine's Day as a Single? This party will keep you guessing and keep you laughing, while getting to know others in the process. Who done it? Each guest is a suspect, fighting off hilarious accusations, and gathering clues. An element of fun and intrigue will be delivered with each course of the meal. Come prepared to share your favorite love story. There will be hugs & kisses for everyone! Prizes and party favors all night long.


5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Cocktail Hour and Informal Modeling
compliments of "The Best of Saks" by Saks Fifth Avenue
Non-host bar


6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Mystery Cupid Party

Your dinner package includes:
Mystery Cupid Party
Four course meal and beverage service
Glass of wine w/your meal

Special music guest The Les Paul Roque Trio!

$65 per person/advance payment
$75 after 3:00 p.m. 2/10/2010 and at the door


This will be the most talked about party of the year, and is sure to sell out!



Learn more: www.meetup.com/diva-destinations-phx-metro

Only 8 non-governmental beds in Maricopa County

Tumbleweel Center For Youth Development

Diva Destinations in partnership with Tumbleweed Center For youth Development is hosting a dinner at ACUA Restaurant in Scottsdale to raise awareness and much needed funds for the Center.  Since 1972, Tumbleweed has helped youth between the ages of 11-22 get off the street, and become productive citizens in society.

"Tumbleweed is close to my heart because these circumstances have touched my family personally", says Monica Tipton, Founder of Diva Destinations.

The purpose of the fundraiser is to get more beds for the youth that are helped at Tumbleweed.  There are only 8 non-governmental beds in Maricopa County for our homeless kids, and Tumbleweed has them.  That's not just appalling, it's unacceptable!

The $50 per person dinner is tax-deductible and specially created by the Master Chef of ACUA.  The fundraiser takes place on Thursday, December 10 at 7 p.m. and includes live entertainment and special guest appearances.  Sponsorships and donations are still welcome and appreciated.  ACUA is located at 7144 E. Stetson Dr. in Scottsdale, AZ.  For more information and reservations 602-708-0843.

IS THERE A TUESDAY NIGHTLIFE IN PHOENIX?

I recently challenged myself to find something fun to do on a Tuesday night. This came after a comment was made by an acquaintance that there was nothing to do on a Tuesday. Coincidentally, I was thinking the same thing at the time. I went to work, and started to research venues (of course, that are women-owned, women-run, or women-friendly). I was pleasantly surprised by what I found.

For instance, the following makes for a great GNO (Girls Night Out), or date night. I've listed the first three events by their range in price. All of them take place on Tuesday, November 10th: Bluewater Grill on Camelback Rd. in Phoenix, is offering "East Coast vs. West Coast Oyster and Wine Tasting". What a concept! Now, I don't claim to be a fan of oysters. However, I always love to try something new. For $24.95 a person, you get to "sample five farm-raised oysters served on the half shell during a competition that battles the East vs. the West. In addition, enjoy a wine tasting featuring Savignon Blanc and Sancerre. 6:30 p.m. Reservations required". Okay, not bad! I'd be willing to try raw oysters.....for the first time.....

Next, Roys in Phoenix and Chandler is offering "A Champagne and Sushi Dinner". Now, this is more up my alley. But, what kind of champagne? I hate that cheap stuff that gives you a headache after the first sip. You ladies know what I'm talkin' about! Known for their three-course meals, this "three-course sushi dinner is paired with various Moët champagnes. Along with sushi, patrons dine on Waygu beef and dessert. Each course is served with either Moët Impérial, Moët Rosé Impérial, Moët Nectar Impérial and Moët Grand Vintage 2000. 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. $75 per person. Reservations required".

Finally, the "Cigar Dinner Series", which runs through January 2010, is in it's 14th season. This series takes place in Scottsdale at Remington's Restaurant and Lounge. $120 per person "this event features five courses of American and international cuisine along with wine and cigar pairings for each course. Wine and cigar connoisseurs will lead educational and informational discussions". I can't stand the smell of smoke, but I love the concept. The fact that women are increasingly choosing cigars over cigarettes to smoke, makes it an interesting choice. It seems a little pricey, but when you mix cigars with wine and discussions; well, let's just say, it goes with the teritory.

The above would be my Diva picks for a Tuesday night Diva Destination. Browsing azcentral.com, and looking at my own invites on Facebook, I did find other alternatives. Like Tuesday Night Bingo at The Lodge in Scottsdale. How about Silver Tuesdays at Silver Martini & Wine Bar, Phoenix? Silver has gotten mixed reviews, so buyer beware. My favorite would be PHX Tuesdays at PHX Night Club, Phx. 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. with free cover before 11 p.m. then $5-$10 after. Sounds like fun when I'm wanting to get my groove on.

Keep in mind, I have not visited and can not endorse any of the venues and/or restaurants that I've mentioned. I am excited to say though, that now I have something to do on a Tuesday night besides going to the same old, tired networking event/mixer where you see the same people week after week.

So ladies if you see me out and about, be sure to stop and say hello. Tell me what you think about the places I've mentioned. Tell me what you like to do on a Tuesday night. You never know. You may be on to something. After all, we are ALL Divas! Now, THAT's Divalicious!