I’ve been away. It’s been too long. I miss you guys. These are all thoughts that have passed through my mind this past week. Rest assured, my dearest readers and friends that the cause of my absence is a worthy one.

You see, this past week I was given a once in a lifetime opportunity to explore sheer luxury and style courtesy of Lincoln Motor Company. Lincoln Black Label is an ownership experience designed to exceed the expectations of even the most discerning luxury client. Centered on a curated collection of designer, interior themes and a host of exclusive membership privileges, Lincoln brought Black Label to life in a private home of North Dallas.

Styled completely by the chief interior designers at Condé Nast, each space in the home was tailored to replicate one of the car outfits that the buyer can choose from in the new line up of vehicles. Oasis, Center Stage, Indulgence and Modern Heritage round out the finishes within the car and the rooms in the designer home followed suit.

During the time in the Black Label Home, I was treated to severely VIP experiences like 3rd row Texas Rangers game tickets and a delicious dinner at Nick & Sams Steakhouse. Black Label ownership grants you ongoing access to the Culinary Collection — a curated list of restaurants coast to coast with noted chefs providing an at-your-service dining experience. Like the materials in your Black Label vehicle, these culinary marvels are sought after by many. Pretty cool, huh?

I was in a state of bliss during my week stay in the home and driving the Black Label MKZ was a dream! Some of my favorite features in the car were the fully retractable panoramic glass roof and cooled seats. Lincoln Motor Company might have been known as a popular brand among an older audience, but I can stand witness to the fact that I haven’t been impressed by a cars bells and whistles in quite some time.

Thanks to Lincoln Motor Company for an exquisite staycation!

*Home, Experiences and Car all furnished by Lincoln Motor Company

Last night, approximately 600 screaming fans descended on the Hilton Anatole in Dallas to watch pop superstar Nick Jonas take the stage. The private concert, a part of Hilton Worldwide “Hilton @Play” campaign, took Hilton HHonors awards points and turned them into an unforgettable experience for Jonas fans.

Hilton is setting out to inspire a new, healthier mindset – encouraging people to seek out the unfamiliar, to appreciate a different point of view and to learn from every day experiences and travel moments. That mission begins with the launch of “Hilton at Play,” a global campaign created to connect people with enriching and playful experiences. That’s where Nick Jonas comes into play.

HHonors awards members paid for the experience in points and then received the details of the concert. I’ll admit I didn’t know every single word, but the way Jonas crooned his way through ‘Take Over’, ‘Wilderness’ and hit song ‘Chains’ made me a believer. The ballroom turned concert hall was intimate and majestic as the pop star made his way through the hour long set. The Dallas native spoke few words to the crowd, but when he did the hoards of teen girls and grown women reached new, higher than Texas hair audio levels. Closing the evening with ‘Jealous’, Jonas kindly thanked those in attendance and those watch on social media live-streaming video app, Periscope, as well.

By setting a new precedent in travel experiences, Hilton has made its mark as a culture force to be reckoned with.

The W Dallas – Victory Hotel & Residences is setting the bar high for Summer event season. With an amazing line up of activities that begin in May, I know that the Victory Park hot spot is going to be buzzing with beautiful people, amazing music and fun for all. Check out the events above for more on the offerings W Hotels is bringing to Big D!

2015 Dallas Art Fair

Dallas Art Fair will feature over 90 prominent national and international art dealers and galleries exhibiting painting, sculpture, works on paper, photography, video, and installation by modern and contemporary artists.

Thursday, April 9

LLS North Texas Presents #TBT to the 80’s

Come party like it’s 1989 again on Thursday, April 9th to raise money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Come dressed in your best 80’s attire (yes, there will be a costume contest with GREAT prizes).

2015 Cool Thursdays Concerts presented by Wells Fargo

With thousands of performances under their belts ranging from smokey, hole-in-the-wall biker bars, to festivals, to concert halls, to casinos, to cruise liners, The Rocket Man Band musicians actually portray Elton John’s intense 70’s & 80’s concerts down to the finest detail.

Friday, April 10

Late Night Pop Up Bar at D.E.C. on Dragon

The new event space, bar and gathering spot in the Design District is hosting a pop up bar this Friday at 10:30pm until the wee hours. Come see and be seen and check out the beautiful rooftop terrace overlooking Downtown Dallas.

Saturday, April 11

2015 Duck Commander 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series

It’s not often I get excited about cars racing in a circle, but this is NASCAR legend Jeff Gordon’s last race ever. Plus, this race is BYOB and that’s enough to get me excited.

Sunday, April 12

Beats + Brunch at Proof + Pantry

Proof + Pantry is opening the doors for one of Dallas’ finest music minds. JT Donaldson will be joining us every Sunday at Proof. In Proof fashion we will be knocking back porrons of Rose and Irish Coffees. Join us for Dallas’ premiere music and food throughout the spring season! Be sure to make reservations or call 214.850.3414

I slipped off my boots last night and put on a pair of bowling shoes. One of my favorite places to blow off a little steam in Dallas is at Bowl & Barrel, the bowling alley/gastropub concept from the folks who brought you The Rustic and Mutt’s Canine Cantina.

Last night, they invited me in to bowl a few strikes (or at least attempt to) and try out their new food and beverage options. After stuffing my face with a few of their delicious bites and seeing my ball roll down the gutter a few too many times, I’m here to report back. Bowl & Barrel’s German-European infused menu will feature an even wider array of smorgas-boards, sausages, exotic shared plates, sandwiches, salads and more. In addition to these dishes, the boutique bowling alley will introduce several new cocktails to its repertoire.

Here are a few of my favorites to get your mouth watering.

Wagyu Steak & Blue Cheese Sandwich – Baguette, blue cheese mayo, watercress and ale glazed shallots.

Chicken Apple Club Sandwich – On sourdough bread with mayo, lettuce, tomato, avocado, green apples and bacon.

Chicken Salad – Green cabbage, kale, ghost pepper peanuts, fruit chutney, jicama, green apple and curry vinaigrette.

Green Chili Grilled Cheese – Jalapeño cheddar bread, muenster, american & green chili gravy.

Velvet Mule –Tito’s Vodka, Velvet Falernum, ginger beer and lime juice.

French Kiss – Prosecco, St. Germain, lemon juice and house-made Grenadine.

Head in and lace up your bowling shoes because the food that fuels the party is pretty darn fantastic.

Still looking for the perfect way to celebrate Valentines Day? Well, whether your coupled up or on the prowl, W Dallas -Victory Hotel & Residences has the the right stuff to make the magic happen. If you’ve got that loving feeling, head over to the hotel located in Victory Park and enjoy an evening of great food, drink, music and mischief.

I’ve partnered with the W Dallas this year to showcase their celebrations and boy do they have quite the line up. One of my favorite things about the hotel is their knack for the playful stay and experience. Whenever I stay at a W Hotel, I know its bound to blow my mind with all of the amenities available and Dallas is no exception.

Cook Hall Dallas is serving up an amazing meal sure to satisfy your sweetie complete with 2 glasses of champagne. Make it a stay-cation afterward with a night in one of the hotels newly renovated and expertly styled rooms.

Craving something a bit more sexy? This year, they are offering a one of a kind night you aren’t soon to forget. May I present you with ‘Fifty Shades of W’:

Awaken your senses and indulge you and your special someone with a night of Fifty Shades of W. You’re in for an unforgettable and sensual escape of a lifetime. After all, at W Dallas – Victory it’s Whatever/Whenever 24-7 and we aim to please.

Fifty Shades of W Includes:

• One night of Play in the Extreme Wow Suite
• Bliss Spa Blissage75 In-Room Couples Massage
• Private In-Room Aphrodisiac Dinner for 2
• Bottle of Bubbly & Chocolate Covered Strawberries
• Scattered Rose Petals Throughout the Suite
• Little Black Box of Tantalizing Toys

That’s right, you can go Fifty Shades without even visiting the hardware store! And it’s sure to be classy as well.

I hope this Valentine’s Day you find yourself celebrating cupid at my favorite hotel in Dallas!

Watch Parties & Food Specials

Granada Theater

No cover! Free! Watch the big game on the biggest screen in Dallas. Concert sound and plenty of comfortable seats. There is no better place for a massive party than the Granada!
* No cover & no RSVP. It is first come first serve for seating this year.
* 21+ only

The Rustic

The game will be aired on their 25ft inflatable flat screen TV. Also they will have endless wings available during the game for $12.95/person. If you would rather watch the game at home they are also offering Super Bowl Party Packs for $29.95. That includes wings, cold queso, chips, celery, and ranch dressing for To Go only. You can call 214-730-0596 to reserve those.

CBD Provisions

“Pig Skin to Go” for Super Bowl Sunday. Football fans can pre-order the signature Berkshire Pig Head Carnitas for their super bowl party from the restaurant which will come with roasted tomatillo salsa, fresh tortillas, and a cabbage slaw, along with a bag of freshly made Chicharones for $59. The restaurant will box up the dish, along with re-heating and eating instructions. To pre-order, call CBD Provisions at 214.261.4500. Orders can be picked up on Sunday, February 1 between 2pm and 4pm.

Front Room Tavern 

Pork Ribs, Brisket and Brisket & Burnt Ends Specials Pictured Below

Ruthie’s Rolling Cafe

Ruthie’s Food Truck is serving a special Super Bowl themed grilled cheese this weekend!

Fitness

Just in case you want to work off those big game calories.

Flywheel Sports

Flywheel Sports Dallas is hosting two Fly 60 game day themed classes. One Fly 60 at 10:30 a.m. with all music based on the half-time show. Then again at 12:45 p.m. with the theme Boston hits vs. Seattle hits. All riders who participate in these rides will receive a square in a pool for the game. One lucky rider will receive $100 in Flycash based on the final score of the big game.

Fashion

Like I said before, it’s not ALL about the food people. (ok maybe it is)

Alton Lane

Alton Lane Dallas is offering customers a special promo in advance of this weekend’s big game. From January 30th through February 1st, customers will be able to purchase 3 shirts for a 20% savings in-store and online (code to be launched on Game Day)

Playoff Fan Central – Friday through Sunday

This multi-day fan festival will give thousands of fans the opportunity to be a part of the College Football Playoff National Championship experience, with appearances from the participating institutions’ bands, cheerleaders and mascots and mini pep rallies for each participating team. Filled with various activities including interactive games, sponsor activities, special guest appearances and exhibits celebrating college football, this family friendly event will create memories that will last a lifetime.

CMT’s Ultimate Kickoff Party Live from the College Football Playoff National Championship at Playoff Fan Central will premiere on CMT Friday, January 9, at 8 p.m. CT and will feature country superstars Toby Keith, Lady Antebellum, Big & Rich, Brett Eldredge, Jake Owen, Maddie & Tae and Thomas Rhett. Playoff Fan Central ticket holders will have first-come, first-serve access to the concert. For more information, click here.

Extra Yard 5K – Saturday

Gear up, show your fandom, get the head gear ready and wear your bowl game best! It’s time to get out of the student section; bring your passion for the gridiron as we celebrate the inaugural College Football Playoff National Championship with the running of the Extra Yard 5K.

It all goes down at the start and finish line in the Cotton Bowl, and will be chock full of marching bands, spirit squads and all of your favorite college football memories. Overall male & female winners get tickets to the big game!

AT&T Playlist Live Concerts – Saturday & Sunday

• Featuring Keri Hilson, Vintage Trouble and Lenny Kravitz on Saturday; Echosmith and Sting on Sunday
• Appearances from institutions’ bands, cheerleaders and mascots

Taste of the Championship – Sunday

Featuring 18 chefs from around the country, including ten from North Texas, five from cities hosting CFP Semifinals in future years, one from Tampa, Fla. (host city to the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship) and two from the respective cities of the teams playing for the national championship

Monday Game Watching parties

PakPao is extending its Thai Hot Wings promotion. For $10, fans receive 10 zesty wings, plus $4 Chang and Singha beers, all while the game plays on the big-screen TV.

Del Frisco’s Grille in Uptown Dallas is gearing up for another spirited National Championship Watch Party. Their upstairs bar will feature drink and food specials and the perfect atmosphere for cheering on your favorite team. No matter who you are cheering for, everyone wins with: $2 off draft beer, $8 featured cocktails, and $10 sandwiches and flatbreads.

The Rustic will show the game on a 25ft inflatable BIG screen as the two teams, Ohio State & Oregon, battle it out for the BIG W! Game day food includes: $3 PBR brews and $12.95/ person endless wings!

The Granada Theater will be showing the game on the big screen!

Skrillex, Disclosure, Zedd, Chromeo, DJ Snake, The Chainsmokers and Armin Van Buuren. Heard of these folks? I bet you have.

In just over 2 weeks, one of the premier electronic dance music festivals hits Dallas. Lights All Night has been a music festival institution since 2009 and this year is bigger than ever. It’s 2 nights of the most exhilarating and cutting edge performers in the game. The LAN team takes pride in delivering a diverse lineup that is sure to please even the most discerning fans.

The Dallas Convention Center offers the ability to produce an over the top event with premier festival production. The completely climate-controlled venue, large ceilings, halls and overall sprawling space makes it the ideal environment to host Lights All Night. For their 5th Anniversary Lights All Night has the ability to create show stopping elements that are sure to foster an unforgettable experience. You can rest assured knowing that you will walk into the event and feel as though you’ve entered a completely different world. Let them take care of the amazing production, visual elements and art installations though – you just enjoy the ride!

Tickets are on sale now for the December 26th and 27th festival and I suggest you buy now as it will sell out!

For more on tickets and complete information, check out their website here!

The Renaissance Dallas Hotel is staple to the skyline of the city. With its unique architectural design and towering stature over the busy highways, the hotel is known for elegance and class. The hotel recently built a  new 50,000-square-foot meeting space to complement what has been celebrated as one of the most unique landmark buildings in Dallas. The addition includes a gorgeous 16,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom with arched floor-to-ceiling glass windows and the breathtaking views of the Dallas skyline.

I had the pleasure of receiving an invitation from my friends at The Renaissance Dallas Hotel to visit the new event space and dine with Celebrity Chef Dean Max. A beautifully decorated table and room awaited us as we sipped a fall rum punch and took in the jaw dropping views of downtown Dallas from the newly opened City View Terrace. Chef Max prepared a bounty of items for the table, done family style, as he educated us on the seasonality and personal touches to the menu. We dined on starters like delicious roasted walnut creek farm pumpkin salad with arugula, pecorino, hazelnut and dried cherries. Main dishes included a stuffed Broken Arrow Ranch Quail and Roasted Scallops with kabocha squash puree. Not your normal event menu if you ask me! Finally, our sweet finish came courtesy of pumpkin cheesecake strudel and apple crumble with local pecans and cinnamon.

I encourage you to visit the landmark Renaissance Dallas Hotel, and see how the best views in town can make the difference for your next event! Don’t miss the Nashville Songwriter Series Featuring
Phillip White & Shane Minor this Friday!