5 Local Small Businesses Where You Can Buy Your Last Minute Christmas Decorations

Decorating my home for Christmas has always been one of my favorite activities during the Holiday Season. Currently, Matt and I went to French Polynesia earlier this month to celebrate a late honeymoon. So I did as much decorating as I could before leaving. But, we still have a lot more decorating that needs to be done! So, If you are like me, and have a tendency to continue to decorate your house for Christmas all the way up to December 24th; there are some of the great small businesses around the area that are perfect for picking up some last minute Christmas decorations this Holiday Season. Here is a list of some of my favorites!


Decorator’s Wearhouse

Pictured are the Tree Bundles (In Order of Appearance: Natural Elegance, Farmhouse Christmas, and Winter Woodland). Photos courtesy of Decorator’s Warehouse

If you have as specific décor item or concept in mind, it is worth driving all the way to Arlington to shop for your last minute Christmas decorations. With 60,000 square feet, is one of the largest Christmas stores in the world! So it is definitely safe to assume that this amazing store is bound to have what ever you need this holiday season!

Decorator’s Warehouse has one of the largest selections of Christmas Trees; as well as Garland, ornaments, wreaths, decorating kits, and gifts. They also have some fun themed Christmas décor collections including: the Woodland collection, the Farmhouse collection, and the Platinum collection. Or if you would prefer, you could purchase one of their four Christmas Tree Bundles which includes the the tree, the ribbon, the ornaments, sprays, flowers and more!

City: Arlington

Directions

Lone Star Mercantile

Photos courtesy of Lone Star Mercantile

Lone Start Mercantile is one shop that has quite a few independent vendors. Each vendor sells something fun and unique. Some vendors sell clothes, some purses, some sell unique crafts, and spice mixes. However, there are also a lot of vendors that sell seasonal home décor. Of course all of their home décor is so adorable and cute! Some fun décor ideas include stockings, signs, and Elf on the Shelf Accessories.

City: Allen

Directions

Holiday Warehouse

Photo Courtesy of Waymarking

Holiday Warehouse is another great store that sells Christmas decorations all year around. Their décor items includes Christmas trees, Christmas Collectables, Ornaments, Garland, and Swags. For those who would like some extra help as they decorate for Christmas; Holiday Warehouse also provides decorating services for larger-scale private home décor. Other great services include: tree toppers, ornament/ribbon sets for your tree, table top arrangements, coordinating garlands, wreaths, and swags. If you and your girlfriends would like to learn something new this holiday season, get together and take one of their classes. They offer classes in garland décor, bow making, tree decorating, and wreath/swag making.

City: Plano

Directions

Etsy

Photo Courtesy of Posh Picks Boutique

Yes, I realize that Etsy is an online business platform. However, there is so much great stuff on Etsy that is just has to be included on this list! Not only do they have great Christmas gifts but they have a bunch of other Christmas décor that I did not even know that I needed! There are so many great selections to choose from! All you need to do is type in anything that you may be looking for, including: Christmas Wall Art, Christmas Vintage Decor, Holiday Door Matts, Wreaths, and other Welcoming Ornaments. Also if you are a huge fan of Christmas Movies like Home Alone, A Christmas Story or Christmas Vacation; then there is also lots of fun items for those as well.

City: Online Store

My Favorite Room by KBM Designs

Photos courtesy of Carol Riell

Located deep in the heart of DFW’s favorite small town of McKinney, is My Favorite Room. This lovely storefront is operated by Interior Designer Kathy McCabe, who is also the owner of KBM Designs Interiors. My Favorite Room specializes in selling unique one-of-a-kind furniture and antiques, personal luxuries, beautiful art, and more. For anyone who is looking for a interior designer to make your spaces more beautiful, be sure to click here to make an appointment to discuss your ideas with KBM Designs.

Regarding Christmas, My Favorite Room does have some fun Christmas Decorations on sale as well. So be sure to stop by the storefront to browse through their inventory.

City: Downtown McKinney

Directions

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Cover photo is courtesy of Carol Riell


5 Spooktacular Date Night Ideas for Those Who Live North of I-635

Whether it is sharing scary stories while sitting around a fire, the cooler weather, or throwing a fun costume party for Halloween; there are so many fun reasons to enjoy the month of October! Of course, none of these things can be enjoyed alone. This scary October moments simply must be shared with a close friend or a significant other. Getting a great scary adrenaline rush with my husband, is easily one of my favorite things to do, especially in the month of October. Here are some of my favorite “spooktacular” night ideas during the Halloween Season.


Nightly Spirits Tour – Haunted Bar Crawl

Photo by Tim Durgan on Pexels.com

Yes, this bar crawl is based in Downtown Dallas. However, it was too perfect of a topic to not be included in this post. It does not matter if you are a believer in the supernatural or not. This Ghostly tour is perfect for anyone and everyone who is looking to meet new people, spend time with your significant other/friends, learn more about the great city of Dallas and grab a few great drinks at the same time. The tour starts a the Green Door Public House on the weekends and makes a couple stops at the Harwood Tavern and City Tavern. Your tour will be guided by a few local ghost hunters who provide extensive knowledge regarding the history of the local sites as well as some witnessed occurrences in the local bars. For those who need more proof of the supernatural or if you would like to add some more entertainment to your tour, bring an an audio recorder with you to see if you can catch an EVP!

Haunted Shadows Lake Trail

Photo Courtesy of Haunted Shadows Lake Trail

This is a perfect date night idea for those who live in Southwest Frisco or in The Colony, especially because it is so close to home! This mile long trail is not for the faint of heart though. Along your hike, you will find you are not alone. During your date, you will be joined by creepy clowns, disturbing shadow people, disembodied voices, and unexplained sounds or noises. This heavily wooded trail is follows the shoreline of Lake Lewisville and is only lit by the moon. A great way to add some fear factor to the trail is to go on a night when there is a new moon.

Dark Hour Haunted House (Backstage Tours)

Photo Courtesy of Plano Magazine

We were deeply saddened to hear that Covid-19 has prevented Dark Hour from opening its doors this Halloween Season. Especially since it is one of the best Haunted Houses in this region of the United States. While normally we would encourage those who are terrified of haunted houses to stay far away from this attraction. But that is not the case for COVID-19 conditions. This year, we highly encourage anyone (especially those who do not like to go to haunted houses) to take part in a unique experience that Dark Hour staff is providing. In Lieu of having regular shows, Dark Hour is providing backstage tours for anyone to see. This is a great alternative for those who would normally be unable to tolerate haunted houses to see the “science” behinds some of our favorite jump scares.

Netflix, Fire in the Fireplace, and Chill

Photo Courtesy of Screen Rant

This date night idea is absolutely perfect for any couple that is just wanting to spend a quiet night in. If you are looking for ways to save money or avoid exposure to Covid-19 this is a great alternative to a “normal” night out. Also unlike the other date nights, this date will actually allow you to set your own private fire and snuggling up next to your significant other. Netflix is one of the best options for scary movies/TV shows this time of year. Some of my favorite Netflix shows include: The Silence of the Lambs, The Haunting of Hill House, and The Haunting of Bly Manor. Of course, if you are looking for something different or if you do not have a Netflix subscription definitely check out the Top 5s Channel on YouTube.

Create your own Ghost Hunting Adventure

Photo by Jack Gittoes on Pexels.com

Texas (the state) is nearly 200 years old. But the history of the land is far older than the state itself. With all of its history, there are plenty of haunted buildings and locations in the area today. We cannot think of a more enjoyable way to discover the area than by going, finding and exploring some of these locations on your own. There are a few fun ghost towns and legitimately haunted locations in the area. But we recommend going to the Ghost Town of Preston (about an hour North), the Ghost Town of Elizabethtown (about an hour West), or visiting the Haunted Princeton Cemetery. Even if you do not find any ghosts, it can give you and your significant other a great story to share in the future. But if you would like to see if there are any ghosts, bring an audio recorder or an infrared camera to see if there is anything lurking about the area.


Where to Eat, Drink, & Play on the Lake Lewisville

Something I have noticed about living in The Colony is that the communities of Little Elm, The Colony, and Western Frisco living revolves around Lake Lewisville. After a long winter, warm weather is finally upon us. With the warm weather comes our ability to enjoy the outdoors and spend lots of time on the lake in our back yard, Lake Lewisville. This will officially, be Matt’s (and mine, to a certain extent) first summer with easy access to the lake. While I am very much looking forward to spending some much needed time on the lake, I am also looking forward to spending time on the shoreline. Here are some fun places that Matt and I are looking forward to visiting during the warm weather.


Eat & Drink (Lakeside)

Fair Winds Bar & Grill

Photo Source: Fair Winds Facebook

Fair Winds Bar & Grill is a located at Pier 121 Marina. With great views of Lake Lewisville on their Dog-Friendly patio, we cannot think of a better place to wind down after a crazy day at work. While enjoying the warm weather and lovely scenery of a sunset on Lake Lewisville, be sure to have their Frozen Margarita paired with their Mahi Mahi Tacos, Fried Elotes, and Texas Cowboys’ Bowl.

Directions

Angelina’s Don Frisco’s

Photo Source: Angelina’s Don Frisco’s Facebook Page

Granted, there is a little bit of a distance between the patio of Angelina’s and Lake Lewisville. But nevertheless, you and your group will still be able to relax to the lovely Texas Scenery with distant lake views. While you are being soothed by the tranquil breeze coming from over the water, be sure to order a pitcher of the Aqua De Laguna for you and your adult friends! This cool drink pairs well with the Fiesta Supreme (for the table) as well as Taco Dinner (for yourself).

Directions

Lakeview Drafthouse

Photo Courtesy of Lakeview Drafthouse

Lakeview Drafthouse is the perfect place to gather with a few of your adult friends, sit on the patio and socialize while sipping on your favorite craft beer. They have Happy Hour daily! On Monday through Friday it is from 3 pm to 6:30 pm. Or you can celebrate your weekends with a Happy Hour from 11 am to 7 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Some great items on their menu that pair well with the warm weather and cold beer are Fried Shimp Po’Boy, Fried Chicken “Funnel Cake” Sandwich, and Guacamole Cheese Burgers.

Directions

Rockin’s Bar & Grill

Photo Courtesy of Rockin’ S Bar and Grill

This cool Rock-n-Roll themed restaurant is located in The Colony at Hidden Cove. As the first day of Spring 2020 quickly approaches, we cannot think of a better place to spend a Parent’s Night Out with your friends. There are a couple options for you and your group. You could spend the evening at the bar watching your favorite baseball team, or your group could spend the evening on the patio watching the sun go down. While you are there, be sure to grab yourself a frozen margarita which pairs well with Roast Beef French Dip, Chicken Ranch Wrap, or the Sliced Flat Iron Steak Sandwich.

Directions

Hula Hut

Photo Courtesy of Hula Hut Little Elm

Mexican cuisine, with polynesian twist and great views of the water! This restaruant is perfect for anyone who is looking for some island time, but without having to travel to Polynesia. Hula Hut has a great patios and sitting areas with perfect views of Lake Lewisville and other bodies of water. This is a great place to bring your family or meet up with friends! While you are there, be sure to try the Polynesian Pescado Platter or the Huli Huli Luau Platter which are perfect for large groups!

Directions

Sneaky Pete’s (Eat, Drink, and Play)

Sneaky Pete’s has everything! Going to Sneaky Pete’s can easily be a all day affair. It’s a restaurant with a patio and a pavilion (both have lakeside views). But they also have a pool, an outdoor stage for live music, sand volleyball courts, and boat parking. If you are just looking for finger food to share, be sure to order the Bacon Cheese Fries for you and your friends. Or if you and your family are looking for dinner try the Combo Seafood Basket or the California Chicken Entree.

Directions


Play

Lakefront at Little Elm

Photo of Little Elm Park Courtesy of Lake Lewisville

The Lakefront at Lake Lewisville has so many things to do for adults and children alike! Little Elm Park is open 24/7 and includes eight sand volleyball courts, a large beach, fire pits, Lakefront Grill and more! For water sport, there are a few options including Cottonwood Creek Marina, DFW Surf, a Boat Ramp and Hydrous Park. There are many local options for food Little Elm Park; including Hula Hut, Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, Jim’s Pizza, and Towers Tap House. Finally for adults only groups include Little Elm Crafthouse and Margarita Hut.

Directions

Hydrous Wake Park

Photo Courtesy of Hydrous – Lake Lewisville

Hydrous is the a great place to learn to wake board or to perfect your wake boarding talents. If you have never wake boarded before, or if you do not have the proper equipment, Hydrous Wake Park has everything you need when learning to wake board. They rent out wakeboards and kneeboards, offer lessons, and have other equipment for more experienced boarders. For those who are not into the wakeboarding or kneeboarding scene, Hydrous Wake Park also has an inflatable giant obstacle course! The park is also right next door to the Towers Tap House, where you can join your friends for a few beers after spending a few hours on the water.

Directions

The Tribute Golf Course

Photo Courtesy of The Tribute

Based in the developing community of The Tribute in The Colony, this new Golf Course is perfect for anyone looking to try their hand at the British Open but without the cost. The Tribute Golf Course has a few holes that are Replicas of some famous British Open holes. Of course, you will be golfing with added benefit of the natural beauty of Lake Lewisville in the background.

Directions

Old American Golf Club

Photo Courtesy of Matthews Southwest

The Old American Golf Club is also located in the developing neighborhood of the Tribute Lakeside Golf and Resort Community. This golf club is perfect for any one who is looking to relax in a more casual environment. The Old American Golf Course also offers golfing on the banks of Lake Lewisville. They have dining and other social events that their members can enjoy including: wine tasting, Father’s/Mother’s Day Brunches, Mystery Dinners and more. Or for those who enjoy LPGA Tournaments, The Old American is the hosts the Volunteers of America Classic on a yearly basis.

Directions


On the Water

Dinner Cruises

Photo Courtesy of Sam’s Dock Boat Rentals

Sam’s Dock Boat Rentals is located at Pier 121 on Lake Lewisville. The boat pictured above is Miss Gloria which features two walk-up bars, large sun deck for open air dining, 5 large TV’s, and a commercial kitchen for caterers. Sam’s Dock has many fun themed cruises through out the season, including: the Easter Sunday Brunch, Pre-Cinco de Mayo, and Memorial Day Weekend Fireworks Cruise. Miss Gloria is also available to rent for anyone looking to host a floating event!

Directions

Cover Photo Courtesy of Sneaky Pete’s

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8 of the Most Creative Margaritas in Dallas

The following post was originally written for and published on Dallasites101 Blog. To read the full version click here.

One of the best parts about living in Texas is the artful adoption of Mexican cuisine into our daily diet. The margarita is (of course) an essential piece of that. While there isn’t a lot that beats a traditional margarita on the rocks (or frozen) there are also a lot of creative takes on the margarita around town that allow you to have some fun and mix it up!


CHAMPAGNE PRICKLY PEAR MARGARITA

TWO MULES CANTINA AT TEXICAN COURT HOTEL

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CHAMPAGNE PRICKLY PEAR MARGARITA: TEXICAN COURT HOTEL

Is there any place more perfect to celebrate National Margarita Day (or month) than at the Southwestern-themed urban retreat hotel, Texican Court? Their Two Mules Cantina is serving up a Champagne Prickly Pear Margarita to pay homage to the month of love. Made with Milagro Silver Tequila, Cointreau, prickly pear syrup, fresh lime juice, agave nectar and topped with champagne, the raspberry-watermelon-like taste of the prickly pear is sure to make anyone fall in love.

They top it off with a glass rimmed with sugar for a sweet ending to your sip! And if you’re looking to celebrate both Valentine’s and National Margarita Day, make a staycation out of it by booking a room overlooking the retro pool! You can sip on margs all night long!

IRVING | DIRECTIONS


BIG RED-RITA

MIA’S TEX-MEX

photo courtesy Eater Dallas

BIG RED RITA: MIA’S TEX-MEX

If you are looking for a really great dive Tex-Mex restaurant, look no further than Mia’s Tex-Mex, but don’t expect it to be a hidden gem with no wait- it’s a beloved Dallas institution serving the community for over 40 years. Do expect excellent margaritas, and for those who are fans of Big Red Soda, Mia’s Tex-Mex has a treat for you! They serve a huge goblet of frozen margarita with an entire bottle of Big Red Soda tipped upside down inside. This unique margarita costs about $12 and perfectly complements the one taco that Mia’s is famous for: their Brisket Taco.

OAK LAWN | DIRECTIONS


HIBISCUS CHAMPAGNE MARGARITA

MIA DIA FROM SCRATCH

Courtesy of Mi Dia

HIBISCUS CHAMPAGNE MARG: MIA DIA FROM SCRATCH

The Hibiscus Champagne Margarita has been created by the Mixologists at Mi Dia from Scratch to give their patrons a really cool “Wow” factor as they enjoy their meal. Served in a large martini glass, the bartender pours the Margarita Mix over the dry ice, followed by an entire tiny bottle of Champagne! Because of this fun presentation of this sweet and flowery cocktail, this specialty margarita is perfect for any celebration (especially birthdays and bachelorettes). It will also give you the perfect footage for any Snapchat or Instagram story.

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS


MAMBO TAXI

MI COCINA

Courtesy of Mi Cocina

MAMBO TAXI: MI COCINA 

How could we write an article about  margaritas and not include the Holy Grail of them all – the Mambo Taxi?! Mi Cocina has been around for decades now, opening back in 1991. When we first arrived in Dallas, we were told we needed to go immediately for some classic Dallas Tex-Mex. Upon arrival, we spotted a frozen swirl of yellow and purple on every other table – that was the  Mambo Taxi, one of the most popular margaritas in all of Dallas! It’s made with Sauza Silver Tequila, lime juice, housemade sangria with Pinot Noir, brandy and juices, giving it that Instagrammable swirl look to it!

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS 


ACTIVATED CHARCOAL MARGARITA

RESIDENT TAQUERIA

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ACTIVATED CHARCOAL MARG: RESIDENT TAQUERIA

Using his knowledge from his unique culinary background, Chef Savoie is able to create an amazing fusion of flavor in his tacos and margaritas. Think a Pecan Smoked Chicken, Glazed Pork Belly, Caramelized cauliflower, and Slow Cooked Mushroom. All of these tacos go well with their signature Activated Charcoal Margarita. Do not let the name fool you! It tastes like lemon (sort of) and makes you feel healthy, while still indulging in a margarita!

LAKE HIGHLANDS | DIRECTIONS


AVOCADO MARGARITA

MESO MAYA

Courtesy of @mesomaya

AVOCADO MARG: MESO MAYA

Meso Maya has some of the best upscale Mexican cuisine in DFW, with a focus on the interior regions of Mexico. Between the delicious food and Latin atmosphere, we love taking out of town guests to Meso Maya, but a meal wouldn’t be complete without the Avocado Margarita! Think muddled avocado, pineapple and lime juice, Cointreau and tequila. If it sounds like it would taste like a non-sweet smoothie, think again. It’s light and refreshing and it a surprisingly amazing treat!

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS


MATCHA GARDEN

JINYA RAMEN BAR

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MATCHA GARDEN MARG: JINYA RAMEN BAR

Another unique feature about Dallas, that we love is the amazing Asian Fusion food. Jinya Ramen Bar is one of the best locations that serves Asian Fusion in Dallas. Restaurant founder, Tomonori Takahashi, does a fantastic job at fusing Japanese Ramen with our favorite Mexican flavors. The Matcha Garden includes house-made Matcha tequila, prosecco and basil Green Tea Margarita is no exception and is sure to please. This refreshing cocktail goes best with the Slurp Up Cilantro Ramen, Spicy Creamy Vegan Ramen, and the Salmon Poke Mini Tacos.

VICTORY PARK | DIRECTIONS


THE RIMY RITA

THE RUSTIC

Courtesy of The Rustic

RIMY RITA: THE RUSTIC

One of our favorite cocktails is the Margarita Sangria swirl, but the Rustic puts a really fun and upbeat twist on this fantastic cocktail. Their version? The Rimy Rita which includes a goblet of traditional margarita and a sangria in popsicle form. You can either eat the popsicle and drink the drink separately, or you can allow the popsicle to melt and stir it into the margarita. But no matter what you choose, the Rimy Rita is bound to stimulate your taste buds and pairs perfectly with a warm summer evening on the Rustic’s huge patio and live music!

UPTOWN | DIRECTIONS


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5 Fun Places in The Colony that are Great for Family Activities

I have spent an overwhelming majority of my life living in Plano, Texas. But now, my Fiance has moved to The Colony (November 2019); and in July, I will be moving in with him as his wife. Over the 25 years of living in Plano, it has been amazing to see how my hometown has grown as well the areas surrounding it. Recently, I have decided to change the focus of my blogging so that I can learn more about Frisco, The Colony, and Plano and to share what I learn about this wonderful community that I will be moving to in six months. The more I learn about The Colony, the more amazing it is to see how this community grown significantly and has become very family oriented with many fun activities. Even though Matt and I do not have children yet, we are hoping to have a few children in the future. Here are some great places I found for anyone of all ages to visit (specially families with children).


Top Golf

Photo Courtesy of Visit Dallas

There are so many fun and distracting things to do at TopGolf that we cannot possibly think of a better place to spend time with your family and friends. For the avid golfers in the group, there are about 13 golfing related games for you to play. These games include TopDrive, TopShot, and Quick 9. TopGolf also has other non-golfing games that member of your group can play; including billiards and fooseball. For those who are looking for a space to celebrate something such as a birthday or graduation, TopGolf provides packages starting at $44 per guest.

Directions

Lasertag – DFW

Photo Courtesy of Visit The Colony

If you are worried about your little ones running around in a dimly lit area with special effect fog and flashing lights, worry no more! Lasertag – DFW is entirely outdoors and they have 22 acres that is divided into five different lasertag courses. That way you and your family have plenty of space to play and five different fields to choose from. Don’t worry about age, anyone ages 4 and up can participate in this fun activity! If you are looking to go with a larger group prices (10+ People) prices start at $160 and include one attendant and access to their picnic tables.

Directions

Truck Yard – The Colony

Photo Courtesy of Plano Magazine

We love the Truck Yard in Dallas; which is why we were elated to learn that they have opened up another one closer to our home in The Colony. The Truck Yard is a great place for you and your family for many reasons. First, with the regular rotation of food trucks that are parked at the Truck Yard there is guaranteed to be a different selection of food every time you go. Another great reason to visit this awesome location is because it is the home of Barney Smith’s Toilet Seat Art Museum. The museum is full of toilet seats that have been turned into pieces of art work, which is bound to amuse the children. The final reason that your family is will love this eatery, is that there is plenty of room for your children to play around or dance to some of the live music from their featured artists.

Directions

Nature Trails

(The Tribute Shoreline Nature Trail) Photo Courtesy of AllTrails

Nature trails are always fun and there are always new and exciting things for kids to learn while outside on nature trails. You and your family could go hiking or biking on nature trails. Or you could pack some picnic gear and have a picnic on the shoreline of Lake Lewisville. But no matter what you decide to do, there is only one thing about nature trails that we absolutely love: Nature Trails are 100% free! There is no admittance fee and you do not have to buy anything while you are there! There are a few Nature Trails here in The Colony, but Matt and I have three favorites. Be sure to try The Colony’s Shoreline Trail, The Colony Five Start Hike & Bike Trail, and the newest one (The Tribute Shoreline Trail).

The Colony’s Shoreline Trail

The Colony Five Star Hike & Bike Trail

The Tribute Shoreline Trail

The Shacks at Austin Ranch

Photo Courtesy of CultureMap

In a nutshell, The Shacks at Austin Ranch are six eateries and a dog park all connected by a large patio. I love this location for many reasons. First, the entire family gets to go (of course when I say entire family, it means that your dog can join you on this outing). Another reason to love the Shacks, is the freedom to choose. If your family cannot decide on what to eat there are six different options that each family member can choose from. For those in the family who love Japanese ramen should try TEN Ramen. Mom and Dad can get adult beverages at Grrrowlers or coffee at Turbo. If anyone wants street tacos they can go to OMG Tacos. Tacklebox sells some great seafood; and Dirty Burger sells your favorite American Cuisine.

Directions

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