GC Lifestyle

Icing on the {Home Decorating} Cake

Posted on by insidegardencity

You would think that after choosing the right fabrics for my dining room chairs and the right fabric for curtains (a painstaking process btw), the right paint on the walls and a chandelier, that my dining room decorating would be finished, right? Well, for those of you who have decorated before, it doesn’t stop there. Actually, I’ve been told that decorating never, ever stops… but I digress.

While I love to be totally finished with a project, I felt that my dining room still needed something more. I thought about painting an accent wall but due to the configuration of my room (doorways on three of the four walls and a large window which takes up most of the fourth wall), it wouldn’t have the desired effect. I contemplated painting the ceiling instead. While I don’t take a lot of decorating risks, or a lot of risks in general, the painted ceiling idea intrigued me. Although it was taking me out of my comfort zone, I knew I could always repaint it if it didn’t work so it was a pretty “safe” risk.

I called Steve Bufalo of Bufalo Decorating to help me out. Steve came highly recommended but I had some reservations about painting the ceiling in general, so we set up a consult. We met and discussed various options (painting a wall vs a ceiling vs wall paper vs different finishes) and after our conversation, I felt much more informed and confident that we were going in the right direction for my room. 

As far as color, I wanted to make a statement, yet not too much of a statement- you know what I’m talking about. We’ve all walked into rooms before and thought, “Oh wow” and then immediately thought “Oh no.” I had to make the right color choice. I consulted with Kathy Daab- a talented graphic designer/interior decorater from KD Design who has helped me out in the past. Kathy narrowed down my choices to just two (thankfully or, left to my own devices, I would still be debating.) 

Here is my previously {somewhat} boring white ceiling and white molding:



Here’s my new ceiling against the white molding:



Here’s another pic so you can get an idea of the room’s color scheme:


It took me a little time to adjust to the painted ceiling. Steve graciously offered to re-paint it a different color if I didn’t like it. But after a day or two, and many compliments later, I was happy with my decision. It gave my dining room just the right touch that it needed; sort of like icing on a cake. 

Steve Bufalo was very easy to work with. He showed up on time, was very professional, competitively priced and did beautiful, precise work. I was equally happy with Kathy Daab. She clearly knows her stuff and makes sure that what she advises is right for me. Choosing talented and easy-to-work-with people really makes a difference on any project!

Now, I sit literally staring at the ceiling… womp womp… planning the next decorating task to tackle. Stay tuned…

If you need painting or decorating help, you can reach Steve Bufalo at 516-628-2137 and Kathy Daab at 516-205-5003 or kathy.daab@gmail.com.



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Garden City’s Best Decked Houses

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The beautiful houses in Garden City always light up the night, but they were extra sparkly this holiday season! Many of the houses were adorned in simple, classic white lights. They were so beautifully and tastefully decorated that I decided to wrap up the holidays with a photo essay depicting some of the lights around town this year. Here are a few of my faves- in no particular order: 

 Let it shine!


Beautiful and simple. 


 Completely classic. 


 They know how to string a few lights here. 


The tall lit trees looked fabulous.

 Tastefully done color. 


 Sometimes simplicity is all you need. 


There are plenty of more lights and beautiful decorations around town. These are just a few. Take a drive or walk around town and admire them- especially while this 50 degree weather keeps up. Well done Garden City!


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Keep the Holidays Going

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Since we usually focus on Garden City-related stuff, this season we thought it fitting to provide you with a NYC holiday hit list. With NYC being a mere 35 minute train ride away, why not spend some vacation time enjoy a few NYC holiday hot spots that you may never have experienced before, in addition to the traditional faves of course. After all, what are the holidays without a little NYC tossed in? 

Most of us have ice skated at Wollman Rink or Rock Center, but have you tried South Street Seaport’s Ice Rink? With a beautiful tree to skate beneath and plenty of great places to enjoy post-skating food or drinks (and lots of fantastic shopping), this may be THE place to skate. They’re open seven days a week. Click here for details and hours. 

South Street Seaport Ice Rink

Rolf’s at 281 Third Ave is just about the most Christmas-y bar/restaurant you could visit. Not only can you get some good wiener schnitzel here {the lamb shank is awesome too btw so bring your appetite}, you will see Christmas decorations unlike anything you’ve seen before. This room is right up there with the 21 Club in terms of unique decor. 

Rolf’s


Winter Village at Bryant Park is another don’t-miss holiday spot. There are over 100 boutique style holiday shops, a beautiful 55′ Norway Spruce, plus an ice rink and Ice Bites, which offers plenty of comfort foods and hot drinks. Open daily from 7am-10pm until January 5th. Click here for more info.

Winter Village

If you haven’t been before, visit the ultra-cool Origami Holiday Tree at the American Museum of Natural History. If you’d prefer to see dinos over decorations while at the Museum, they also have two 19 food barosaurs lit up for the holidays. Their tree comes down on January 11th. 

Origami Tree


Hit The Plaza for their special Snowflake Tea. Take in their beautiful decorations and holiday tree in the Fifth Ave Foyer. Of special interest are the tree’s snowflake ornaments curated by Saks Fifth Ave especially for The Plaza. Snowflake Tea: $60 per adult. Fifth Ave at Central Park South. 

Try to spend some time in NYC this holiday season. A few things listed here are slightly off the beaten path- i.e., not within viewing distance of “the tree” at Rockefeller Center. But in NYC, it’s all good, especially during the holidays. This may just be the best place to enjoy the season!


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A Local {Crowds Not Included} Holiday Gift Guide

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With Christmas exactly one week away, Inside Garden City is happy to help you cross off those last few gifts from your list, all while keeping it local- our favorite ways to shop. You’ll find an array of perfect presents below, each one local and available to you same day- no waiting for UPS to arrive. We created this gift guide featuring local businesses in hopes of alleviating some of your stress and also to show you the many gift options that are basically right on your doorstep (no crowded mall and no long lines- woo hoo!). Now maybe you’ll have some extra time to grab a cup of holiday cheer.


The Pear Tree Shoppe at 169 7th St. is filled with treasures that are bound to please. I was so happy to see my fave black and gold horse bracelet. There’s even an elephant one too now. I also love the initial totes- I will be buying one of these for someone on my list. So many unique earrings too.  Fur wrist wraps are perfect for adding a little something to a sweater or jacket. Price ranges vary so there’s something for everyone here. 




Honestly Delicious at 61 New Hyde Park Road sells a fantastic gingerbread house that is already assembled and includes everything you need for decorating- including chocolate! This makes a great gift at $25. Throw in some gingerbread men (or ladies) and you’re all set. They also have gift certificates which would make just about anyone happy.  




Madison’s Niche at 186 7th St has something for everyone. For the guys on your list- gloves, the Bar Book, fancy bottle opener and other man cave-ish ideas. For the women- I loved the cozy slippers, this fab bracelet and more. For the hostess- cutting boards, hand towels, picture frames- like this cool tree frame below. You can add more picture frames to it as you like. In addition, their entire stock of Lysee Tops, Skirts and Dresses is 25% off!

 



A New Leaf Tea at 152 7th St is just the place to shop for the tea lover! The tea cups with built-in steepers make a great gift, as do the travel mugs. I love this red tea pot below.  




Envie 182 7th St. You’ll find something here that will outshine the tree topper. Grab a sparkly bag or a statement necklace for a friend (or yourself- no judgement here). I love the gold cuff bracelets and check out those cute little skirts- oh wait- they’re actually the most adorable aprons you’ve ever seen! There’s no shortage of WOW gifts at Envie- they may just make you want to behave for Santa. Plus, all ponchos, wraps and sweaters are 25% off. Everything else in the store is 20% off through Sunday!



Coquette 173 7th St carries a number of hot clutches that come in an assortment of colors- good for any woman of any age. They also have some fab jewelry pieces- such as this necklace below that I just may return for tomorrow. 


New York Running Company 191 7th St. carries OOFOS clogs and flip flops. Will these become the new Crocs next summer? Unlike most flip flops, they have great arch support and are super comfy. The vests will keep your runner warm and styling’ and you can always find great stocking stuffers here- like quality running socks or hats. 

 

  

Garden City Fine Wines and Spirits 166 7th St. Instead of the traditional Bailey’s this year, try a pumpkin pie cream liquor or if someone on your list needs to chill, a bottle of Relax wine will do the trick and make a cute gift too ; )

 



Sunflower Fine Art at 172 7th St will have just what you’re looking for if you want to show up with something a little bit different this holiday. There’s something to fit most budgets here. Of course, I spotted this pineapple immediately. And Santa’s sleigh would make the perfect hostess gift.




Salon Imperiale at 668 Franklin Ave is ready to fill your stockings with gift certificates and hair products. They’re offering a Rusk Hydrate duo pack- usually $30, now only $20 but just until Christmas.  




Beauty Kiss at 679 Franklin Ave has some delicious stocking stuffers for you- like their new lip scrubs, luxurious hand cream and cool soaps. 



You don’t have much time to get your shopping done, but if you shop local, I can pretty much guarantee that you’ll have a much more enjoyable, personal experience. And chances are there will be some pretty unique gifts under the tree this year. Happy Shopping!


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Walking Through A Feldis Wonderland

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Have you been inside Feldis Florist recently on Seventh St.? It really feels like you have stepped into a mini winter wonderland of Christmas. 

Ed and Janine are there, as usual, welcoming and serving local customers. They always make me smile when I go in there to shop. Speaking of, Ed is very enthused about the food bank they are running and wants to get the word out. See picture below. When you have a few extra minutes, be sure to drop by and drop off some non-perishable food to help fight hunger this holiday season. Ed is committed to collecting a ton of food this year and encourages all to participate.


As far as the holiday season goes, Feldis is filled to the brim with goodies- flowers, wreaths, trees and gifts galore. You can’t walk out without feeling like you just got a little more Christmas spirit in you! I’ll let these photos do the talking:
 


This adorable shop is located at 160 Seventh St. Try to stop in- even if it’s just to catch a glimpse of the beautiful wonderland the Feldis crew has created. Happy Holidays! 

Phone: 516-747-3330



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Garden City Insider of the Month: Vinny Muldoon

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We’re excited to introduce our next Garden City Insider of the Month!

When you think of beautiful homes throughout Garden City or perhaps doing a construction project in your own house, the name that probably comes to mind is: Vinny Muldoon.


For the few of you who may not know the name, Vinny Muldoon is an expert contractor and owner of Old World Quality Corp–a Garden City based full service construction company. In 1986 he left Ireland (where he grew up on a farm as the youngest of ten children) for Boston, MA. In Boston, he fell in love with his wife, Dina {and also with the U.S.A.}. They moved to Long Island and lived in Franklin Square before settling in Garden City. Soon after moving to Long Island, Vinny started his own contracting business and the rest as they say… is history.

Of course we asked Vinny our regular Insider of the Month Qs and he was very happy to oblige.

What inspires you? Two things inspire me. The first is the ambition that I inherited from my parents. My work ethic comes from growing up on a farm; it builds character. The second is that I want to be known as the number two guy in Garden City- the first being AT Stewart. AT Stewart developed the most spectacular town and paid a lot of attention to detail. I would like to make a huge impact on the town as well, in regards to construction and development. I am also a very detailed person and I want to continue enhancing this beautiful town.

What is your favorite Garden City restaurant? There are so many great restaurants in our town. I support them all. I love steak, burgers, sushi. I like a lot of variety so I share the wealth.

What is your favorite Garden City store? I love to support all of the local stores. We should all do that. My wife is more of the shopper. I’m task-oriented, like the typical male. I’m in and out of a store in 30 secs.

What do you love most about Garden City? The people. The people here are phenomenal. They are quality, genuine, hard working people. This is a great place to raise kids and it’s a town with a lot of architectural beauty. Also, there is no better combination of phenomenal schools and sports programs anywhere in the country. Our schools and sports combined are second to none.

What is your favorite thing to do in Garden City? I love to hang out with my wife and kids. I’m a sports nut. I love to follow my kids in their sports events. I also enjoy playing golf.

What would you change about Garden City? We need to move St. Paul’s forward. There’s been too much politics and bickering when we really need to advance the ball. The structure is filled with spectacular architectural pieces inside and out. It is an unbelievable architectural gem on Long Island and in New York State. I believe that it represents all that’s good about Garden City and this town wouldn’t be the same without it. It’s so unique and special. At the very least, we should make an effort to preserve it as an architectural gem. It’s a shame that it hasn’t been preserved as of yet because it represents the history of this great town.

Do you have any advice for Inside Garden City readers? Help as many people and neighbors as you can. Give as much back to the community as you can. This means sacrificing your time, effort and money to do so. The key to being successful is your ability to help other people and make this world and this community a better place.

Vinny will be honored at this year’s Pineapple Ball as “Citizen of the Year” for the many services his company has performed throughout Garden City and beyond. You can visit Vinny’s website here.


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Shopping and Champagning at Envie

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Bubbly in the left hand; bling in the right… what a great way to kick off the Holiday Season. 

It was a fabulous night last Thursday at Envie on Seventh St. Not only did I pick up a few things (for myself- no gifts yet… don’t judge), but the champagne was flowing, in addition to great food, music and raffles… and lots and lots of shopping- who can resist a 20% discount?

Mandy Agnetti was the stylist on hand to assist customers in their selections and with pairing clothing and accessories. She proved to provide a valuable and welcome service to everyone. Mandy is available for styling and wardrobe assistance. She can be reached at mandyagnetti@gmail.com or 516-909-8153. 

Inside Garden City was thrilled to co-host this event with Envie’s gracious owner, Christina, and her wonderful staff. If you missed it, below is a brief summary in pictures. Happy Holidays! 

 

Restaurant Sneak Peek

Posted on by insidegardencity

It’s time to take a step back from your daily hustle and bustle and start planning for the weekend. Woo Hoo! You might be thinking of going out to dinner and if so, you can view a few of our favorite local restaurants’ weekend menus and specials in one convenient spot. Take a look below and make your rezzies! 


REVEL offers Happy Hour every day from noon til 7pm. Draft beer, domestic bottles, selected wines, and well cocktails are only $5. Bar bites menu apps are 20% off. Read what Newsday says about Revel’s happy hour here. 

Also, Revel continues offering their LI Restaurant Week 3 course Prix Fixe Dinner @ $27.95 every Sun-Fri 4pm-10pm. 

Enjoy Beats & Eats every Thursday at Revel. This Thur, 12/4, features Astra from 92.3 AMP FM starting at 7pm. Meet Astra and catch DJ French spinning the best music all night long. Plus drink specials and complimentary admission- as always. 

835 Franklin Ave, Garden City(516) 246-9111



BK SWEENEY’S will have Ladies Night on Thursday night.
Saturday night- try their Famous Slow Roasted Prime Rib.
Sunday- enjoy Brunch from 11-3.
Monday-Friday from 4-7pm is Happy Hour. $6 appetizers. 
636 Franklin Ave, Garden City (516) 746-3075



Check out Capo’s specials for the upcoming weekend:

ANTIPASTI:
STUFFED ARTICHOKE $7
Our classic stuffed artichoke with a garlic wine sauce

CARTUCCHERIE FORMAGGIO $14.50
Mortadella, red wine salami, Sopressata, Asiago, Paive and 8 month aged hard sharp goat cheese

OYSTERS CAPOFELLA $11.50
Blue Point oysters with spinach, pancetta and gorgonzola

BROCOLI RABE E SALSICCIA $7.50
Our recipe broccoli rabe, sausage and gorgonzola cheese filled egg rolls

PASTA:
LINGUINI CON CALAMARI $16
Our fried calamari in a spicy cherry pepper tomato sauce

CAPRESE RAVIOLI $15.50
Ravioli with fresh mozzarella, tomato and basil with a roasted red pepper cream sauce and balsamic reduction

SPINACHI FETTUCCINI CON GAMBERONI E PETTINI $17.50
Fresh made spinach fettucini with shrimp, scallops, pepper flakes, garlic and oil

GNOCCHI CON RAGU DI BISTECCA $16
Chianti braised short rib ragu with our house made parmesan gnocchi

SECONDI:
PETTINI PAN SCATTO $22.50
Jumbo scallops, pan seared with a Pinot Grigio sauce and grape tomato, with brussel sprouts and sweet potato

OSSO BUCCO $23.50
Chianti braised veal osso bucco with and smashed red potatoes broccoli rabe

MAIALE FUNGI MARSALA $19
Sauteed pork loin with a mushroom and Marsala wine sauce, roasted brussel sprouts and sweet potato mashed

BRONZINO PICATTA $21.50
Sauteed Bronzino fillet with a lemon caper and wine sauce, served with broccoli rabe and smashed red potato

49 Covert Ave, Floral Park (516) 216-5177





PLANCHA

Dry Aged Pinchos with Tomato Jam and Mayo Tapenade $7

Roasted Pear with Whipped Ricotta, Hazelnuts and Brown Butter. $6

Email us at insidegardencity@gmail.com if you would like your favorite restaurant’s specials to be added. 

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Garden City’s Small Business Saturday Deals Don’t Disappoint!

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In lieu of our weekly Weekend Events Guide, Inside Garden City has complied a list of local stores offering great deals for you on Small Business Saturday. Supporting local businesses and getting a jump start on your holiday shopping is a great way to spend a Saturday. Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving!


Who needs crowded chain stores and malls when you’ve got amazing shopping right at your doorstep? Take a look at some of the great deals around Garden City on Small Business Saturday tomorrow. This holiday season, remember to shop small and shop local. 

Happy Shopping!


Salon Imperiale is offering a 10% discount on each gift certificate you purchase. You can also buy a cut and color for $80 (regular cost: $100) to use at a later date. Make your holiday shopping easy- a gift card for someone on your list and a cut and color for yourself. That’s a deal too good to pass up! 



Honestly Delicious Bakery & Cafe on New Hyde Park Road has another great deal for Small Business Saturday. Purchase a $10 gift certificate using your American Express card and get a $10 credit on your Amex statement, then purchase a second $10 gift card and receive a 50% discount. That means you spend only $5!



Shop at Isabella’s on Small Business Saturday and receive a 20% discount off your entire purchase. 10am – 6pm. Cannot be combined with any other sales/coupons. 



Envie is offering 15% off anything in the store on Saturday. In addition, with each purchase you make, your name will get entered to win a $100 Envie gift certificate! 



A New Leaf Tea Emporium– Charge your purchase to Amex and receive 10% off your total. Also, get a free Shop Small canvas tote bag when you spend $30 or more.  



Garden City Wines and Spirits– Receive 10% off six bottles of wine or more and 20% off 12 bottles of wine or more.



Feldis Florist– Every purchase made here on Saturday gets you entered into a raffle for a $50 Feldis gift card.  



Madison’s Niche– 25% off Michael Stars and Lysse tops. I own a few of these and can say that I really love them! Also, Vera Bradley throws make a great holiday gift and are buy one get one half off on Saturday. 



Coquette will be offering 30% off select styles plus a free gift with any purchase over $75. 


Remember to register your Amex card by clicking here in order to take advantage of the special cash back offers. So where will you be heading on Small Business Saturday? 



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Garden City Insider of the Month: Mayor John Watras

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Last month, Inside Garden City introduced a new feature: The GC Insider of the Month. Since the first person to be chosen as Insider of the Month, Andrew Karen (Dept of Recreation and Parks), is unofficially known in some circles around town as “the mayor”, we thought it only fitting to follow up Andrew with the official Mayor of Garden City- John Watras. 

Inside Garden City was thrilled that Mayor Watras took the time to answer our Garden City Qs. His love for this town and what it has to offer was obvious from our conversation. We look forward to hearing more from the Mayor on this site in the future. 


What inspires you? Work inspires me. New business inspires me. I’m in the financial services business on Wall St. I also love history. Garden City is immersed in history and I love that. I’m inspired by young people as well and the fire in their eyes. I enjoy assisting them where I can.

Favorite restaurant in Garden City? All of them.

Favorite store in Garden City? Again, all of them, especially Joseph & Joseph, The NY Running Company and Garden City Wines & Spirits, to name a few. My wife loves all of the boutiques in town.

What do you love most about Garden City? I love the character of the town and the spirit of the people, as well as the many long-standing traditions. Garden City is steeped in tradition. 

Favorite thing to do in Garden City? I enjoy playing golf and walking. I also love to go into town and meet people.

What would you like to change about Garden City? I’m working on that now. I’m dedicated to providing great service to the Garden City residents. I would like to get closure on St. Paul’s, in accordance with what the citizens want.

At the end of our conversation, Mayor Watras reminded me of Garden City’s upcoming December 12th holiday shopping event on Seventh St. As a proponent of local businesses, this is just one more endeavor the Mayor has backed. Inside Garden City shares his beliefs about supporting our local businesses. We encourage you to enjoy the 12/12 festivities, just as so many of us did during the summer Friday Night Promenades. Shop, dine, meet your neighbors and enjoy yourself while supporting your town.

Thank you Mayor Watras and we hope to see you on Seventh St. on December 12th!

http://www.gardencityny.net


Contact us on Facebook or email insidegardencity@gmail.com if you’d like to nominate someone to be a Garden City Insider of the Month. 

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