Direct from India ... to Schaumburg
India's largest jewelry retailer just opened its first U.S. store in Schaumburg.
As of last week, Tanishq (pronounced ta-nee-shk) is open for business in Woodfield Mall. The store sells rings, earrings, pendants, bracelets, necklaces and brooches in 18-karat gold that are "inspired by nature and philosophy."
In India, the company has 108 boutiques in 73 different cities.
The store's name may not be familiar to you now, but it will be. The company plans to open 25 other American stores in the next few years.
Are you a shoe girl?
Attention Carrie Bradshaws! The Chicago-based T-shirt company Festa Stuff is selling a fun, new "Shoe Girl" T-shirt.
The black vintage baby doll-styled shirt sells for $25.99, but there's a special 20 percent discount for Daily Herald readers. Just add the coupon code "HERALD7" when you place your order at www.shopfesta.com.
In other shoe news, Simple Shoes is introducing a new line called PlanetWalkers. The shoes are "100% sustainable," which is eco-speak for being made from recycled and Earth-friendly materials, like old tires and bamboo. The shoes will be available at The Walking Company stores in Woodfield Mall, Hawthorn Center and Oak Brook Center, or at simpleshoes.com.
Save money at the spa
Spa services are often the first thing to go when the budget gets tight. So SpaFinder.com President Susie Ellis put together a list of ways to save money when you visit the spa. Among her tips:
• Get on the "insider" or preferred customer list, which often offers discounts and deals.
• Some spas give group discounts, so get a group and book your services together rather than individually.
• Check for resort spa day passes. Some spas allow you to lounge in their relaxation areas or use their fitness equipment for the entire day if you pay for a single service.
• Take advantage of midweek bargains.
• Choose packages or other all-inclusive pricing, where you get several services for one discounted price.
• Hit the Web and shop for the best spa deals.
• Don't be afraid to ask for deals. Sometimes spas don't always advertise their specials, so it doesn't hurt to check.
Another way to save money
Want to save money when you go shopping? Bring The Hubs along! A poll in the upcoming issue of ShopSmart magazine shows 62 percent of couples spend less money when they shop together.
Other interesting data from the survey:
• 75 percent of men and women say they've held hands while shopping, and 46 percent have had other displays of affection. (Let's hope they only mean hugging.)
• 25 percent of men and women say they've been embarrassed by their partner in a store.
• 32 percent of couples have lost their significant other while shopping, and 12 percent resorted to paging them over a loudspeaker.
• 6 percent of men and women admit to abandoning their significant other at a store.
Modeling contest
Women 18 and older can apply for the "Mario, Make Me a Model!" contest during open calls at Mario Tricoci hair salons, including one at 10 a.m. July 30 at Hawthorn Center in Vernon Hills and one at 5 p.m. July 30 at the Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles.
No prior modeling experience is required. The applicants will be judged by celebrity judges, including Tricoci. Each of the five finalists will receive a makeover from Mario Tricoci Hair Salons & Day Spas, modeling training by Ford Models, personal training with Equinox Fitness Clubs and be part of media appearances. All finalists will be considered for modeling contracts.
Visit tricocipromotions.com for more information and http://myspace.com/tricoci for related events.
- Jamie Sotonoff