Mall of Milennia and Florida Mall, plus the Best Outlets

Gifts for Young Adults at Mall at Milennia

2014-12-05T18:30:00.001-08:00

Who's left on your list? Young adults and teens, always the toughest to buy for. So unless you want to give them gift cards to Target or Chipotle again, head to the Mall at Milennia and check out these great stores:

Buckle
Guess
All Saints
Diesel
J. Crew
Banana Republic
True Religion Jeans

For her, there's also Mall at Milennia designer spots:

Michael Kors
Tory Burch
Neiman Marcus for Roberto Coin jewelry, perfect for a young-rich look plus trendy wearables
Tiffanys for sunglasses and silver logo jewelry

For him, there's always the Mall at Milennia techno twins:

Apple Store (Do we have to spell it out?)
Microsoft Store (PS-4)

Great gifts at Mall at Milennia

2014-12-03T22:45:00.000-08:00

It's snowing gifts at Mall at Milennia.

There's something for everyone on your list and lots of new stores to check out.

Seeking American Style?
Visit Michael Kors, Tory Burch or Kate Spade (all on the Bloomingdale's side of the mall) for on-trend accessories. And for jewelry gifts starting at $100, nothing is as all-American as the blue box from Tiffany's.

The Status Watch always works.
The new Rolex store joins the Breitling and Tag Hueur shops to offer a great selection.

And for her, you can't go wrong with a Designer Purse or Shoes.
Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Fendi are required stops on the status-gifting tour.

Are you a World Traveler?
Tumi is the place for top quality luggage and travel accessories. Bloomingdale's wonderfully versatile and lightweight Longchamp totes in a rainbow of colors. Macy's has a large luggage department on the second floor with a host of popular brands and lots of trendy hard-sided carry-ons.

Looking for a charming Christmas boutique?
Stop on the second floor of Neiman Marcus for a wonderful selection of Christmas ornaments and decorations, made the old-fashioned way, mostly in Europe. Brings back the happiness of a simpler time, when quality was apparent in the smallest items. Wonderful table decor and gifts, too.

Craving a holiday make-over?
Drop by Sephora or Mac for complimentary make-up application. A local tip: Neiman Marcus has the best in prestige lines, including YSL, Cle de Peau and Trish McEvoy. Plus Tom Ford, Jo Malone and Creed fragrances.

Where Orlando's Best Shoppers Buy Gifts

2013-12-15T13:42:00.002-08:00

Mall at Milennia's and Florida Mall's Best Kept Secrets

Mall at Milennia's and Florida Mall's Best Stores for Women
David Yurman
Tiffanys
Neiman Marcus
Bloomingdales
Swarovski
Macys (Perfume and Handbags)
Victoria's Secret (area's largest and most upscale)
Nordstrom

Mall at Milennia's and Florida Mall's Best Stores for Men
Tag Heur
Macys
Tommy Bahama
Sunglass Hut
All Saints
Tumi

Mall at Milennia's and Florida Mall's Best Stores for Teen Girls
Sephora
Mac
Guess
Bath and Body Works
Macys (Perfume and Handbags)
Victoria's Secret

Mall at Milennia's and Florida Mall's Best Stores for Teen Guys
Buckle
H & M

Mall at Milennia's and Florida Mall's Best Stores for Techies
The Apple Store
Microsoft Store
GameStop

Mall at Milennia's and Florida Mall's Best Stores for the Home
Pottery Barn
Pottery Barn Home
Bloomingdales
Crate and Barrel
Neiman Marcus

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Desperately seeking caffeine

2013-12-03T20:52:00.000-08:00

Craving a Grande pumpkin spice latte? Or a Vente caramel macchiato?

Head for one of the 2 Starbucks outposts in the center of the Mall at Milennia. You'll find one upstairs by the food court and one downstairs by the front entrance across from the Cheesecake Factory restaurant.

Don't forget, you can get hot and iced tea at Starbucks too. Homemade chocolate milk is a great choice for children, too, in a sturdy plastic cup with a straw.

If you want a bagel or a pastry with your coffee, head for local fave Panera Bread at the back of the food court by the doors.

Coffee news:
There is a NEW latte stop inside Bloomingdales, by the makeup counters, where the Dylan's candy store used to be. They also serve gelato and other snacks.

News Flash! Capital Grille at Mall of Milennia!

2013-08-02T15:33:00.000-07:00

Fine dining in a bright new dining room!

Capital Grille fans rejoice. A new version of this favorite has opened in the spot where McCormick and Schick was located. For newbies, that's on the Conway Road side of the mall between Blue Martini and Neiman Marcus. There's valet parking for the restaurants or you can park in front. If that lot is full or the valets have marked off all the good spots, park in front of Neiman Marcus; it's just a short walk over.

The new Capital Grille is brighter and less clubby inside than it's I-Drive cousin, but they share a menu. Crab bisque, steaks, seafood...martinis.

If you like a FULL BAR with real bartenders to go with your mall-based dinner, you'll love Capital Grille. In fact, you can start with a great martini and eat dinner at the bar... That's a less fussy, but equally satisfying way to end a great shopping outing!

Capital Grille is fun for a date, too. Walk around the mall first and window shop at the designer boutiques or browse the home stores including Pottery Barn and Crate and Barrel (above Pottery Barn, next to Bloomingdales) and Williams Sonoma.

Darden (yes, it's owned by the same group as Olive Garden and Red Lobster, but don't let that stop you) service is reliable if not inspired. You will rarely have a service disaster in a Darden restaurant and if you do, be sure and ask for a free dessert or to have your bad drink replaced. Darden stands behind every dish and every meal, they're awesome that way.

Attention beef lovers: Capital Grille wins awards for great hamburgers. And they are GOOD.

For more info, go to Capital Grille at Mall of MIlennia

Cafe Bistro, Florida Mall's best restaurant.

2013-07-26T06:39:00.000-07:00

***Local Secret***

Don't miss this New American Bistro upstairs at Nordstrom.

Enjoy a view of the exhibition kitchen in a vibrant cafe that delivers fresh bistro cuisine.

"Nordstrom restaurants are committed to offering a superior dining experience. Our menus
feature fresh, local ingredients to create made from scratch dishes." Based in the health conscious American Northwest, Nordstrom is committed to using sustainable, natural and organics foods, including cage-free eggs and milk free of BGH.

Menu faves include Roasted Chicken and Goat Cheese Panini, Bistro Flat Iron Steak Frites and Nicoise Salad with Salmon. Or try Grilled Shrimp with Asparagus Risotto or Rustic Vegetables and Three Cheese Pizza if you're feeling creative.

By the glass wine choices are varied and interesting, for example, there's a Pinot Gris from Acrobat and a Red Blend called The Magician.

For the munchkins, there's a Cafe Menu with games and kids meals, including pasta with tomato sauce and a simple chicken breast sandwich. All kids meals come with raisins and a drink in a complimentary kids cafe cup.

Stay Calm and Go to Nordstrom

2013-07-26T06:22:00.002-07:00

Nordstrom- A Tranquil Island of Civility in Orlando

Locals were excited to hear that Nordstrom, the retailer famed world-wide for a unique brand of customer service, was coming to town. Visit the Orlando outpost in the enormous, yet accessible Florida Mall. You'll be glad you did!

Nordstrom's 5 Best Kept Secrets

At the inside mall entrance to Nordstrom, you'll find 5 ways to RELAX and enjoy yourself.

1. Ebar- A Latte in a Sunny Atrium ***Local Secret***
Meet Ebar, a great little coffee shop by the entrance to the store.
Enjoy handcrafted coffee beverages prepared by skilled baristas, house-made smoothies,
pastries and a variety of grab-and-go sandwiches, salads and snacks that are made fresh daily.
Coffee s better than Starbucks, staff is friendly and best of all, you can sit at one of the many little tables in the atrium outside the store and RELAX. Get off your feet and enjoy reviewing your purchases so far. ONLY locals know about this!!

2. Great Shoe Department
Located right inside the store next to the coffee bar.
HUGE with lots of comfy seats for your guy and your kids to rest or check their phones. Always lots of new styles, but NOT trashy or cheap versions. The real thing. And they're not worn from too many try-ons like they are in some stores that get too much traffic.

3. Love Fragrance? Get a Generous FREE spray samples.
Nordstrom makes a fresh FREE spray sample of any fragrance you'd like!
On Ebay, you'd pay $5 for a generous sample like this, but at Nordstrom, you can be a diva and enjoy as many as you'd like... Try brand new FLASH from Jimmy Choo or a newer classic like Chanel Chance. Check out these sexy fragrances that men love- Vince Camuto, Narcisco Rodriquez Eau de Parfum (pink bottle) and Dolce Gabbana THE ONE.

4. Little Boutique with fine chocolates
Go straight into the store. Behind the escalator on the right, you'll see a new little "boutique" within a store. It's charming and there is a fine chocolate case there as well. Lots of great take-home souvenirs to be found here, from picture frames to duvet covers...

5. REST ROOMS
Definitely the nicest in this mall and very clean. There's one on the first floor BEHIND the boutique by the door and a much larger one upstairs. If you like a quiet spotless quiet restroom (who doesn't?), GO UPSTAIRS.

Okay, back to the story....You'll love Nordstrom.
It's uniquely American, yet has a European ambiance due the the service. Nordstrom is a quieter style of shopping than Macys.

Although the prices are similar to Macys, Nordstrom carries UNIQUE and SPECIAL items as well as all your favorite American Designers and cosmetics. Good examples are UGGS for kids in the newly redesigned and adorable childrens department. And a whole department of women's hair accessories that you won't find anywhere else.

Nordstrom buys it's merchandise by the store. So this store has a focus on top quality American designers like Mark Jacobs and Michael Kors for it's visitors from around the world.

Did I mention SERVICE?   The staff is very helpful, yet not overbearing in any way like some boutiques. It is also ridiculously easy to return things to Nordstrom, they are famous for a "no questions asked" policy that has not time limits. Amazing.
In Orlando, Nordstrom is the place to go when you have a wardrobe challenge and limited time. The staff knows their merchandise which is unusual in Orlando's huge department stores due to the fast movement of inventory. At Nordstrom, it's part of the job!

If you want full-scale styling, they'll bring you things from other parts of the store. Do you need a dress for a daytime wedding, plus a belt shoes to match? Or a tank top to go with your new mini skirt?

PARKING TIP
Park in between Macys and Nordstrom on the back side of the mall.
You'll see Macys on the left and Nordstrom on your right. If you you park near Sears or Penney's or the Food Court which are the first things you see when you drive into the mall lots, you could literally walk a mile back to the car with bags and a coffee in hand... Trust me, you'll be really sorry!

SANITY TIP
Say NO to Macys in the Florida mall!
The store's a MESS and service is poor. Go to the larger Macys at Mall of Milennia, which has better management and a whole additional floors of childrens wear and home, plus the largest luggage department in town. It's worth a trip just for Michael Kors and Juniors. Plus Mall of Milennia has all the upscale brands, like Tiffany and GUCCI and Neiman Marcus.

Fastest Way to GLOW BRONZE. And it Lasts!

2013-07-24T15:34:00.000-07:00

TAN LIKE A FLORIDA BEACH GIRL

Victoria's Secret
Instant Bronzing Tanning Spray

Victoria's Secret Instant Bronzing Self Tanning Spray
Price: $15.00 ***cheap thrill***

Great for a natural- looking glow or a day at the beach

New self-tanner technology makes the at-home spray tan a reality. Bronzes and tans in one easy (yes, really!) step. And no orange hues here, you get a gorgeous real tan brown.

Wrap your legs in a natural coat of TAN for summer's shorter skirts and shorts.
Finally, you can wrap your body from head to toe in sexy, airbrushed perfection without the risks of a real tan or the salon price. Beach Sexy Instant Bronzing Tinted Body Spray with natural aloe leaves skin kissed with golden color for a flawless look.

STYLIST TIPS #1
Bronze tint helps blur the look of imperfections, like uneven skin tone or texture. Add a second coat to areas that you want to slim, like sides of thighs or hips.

STYLIST TIP #2
Continuous spray makes for easy, streak-free application. Put a dark towel under your feet to keep spray off of the floor.

To use the spray for your face, just spray into hands and apply like a foundation. Don't apply to eyelids. Use a damp cloth to remove from eyebrow area and nose (which tends to tan too dark for some reason).

STYLIST TIP #3
For most natural results:

Wipe off heels, sides of toes and feet and knees with damp washcloth after applying.
For arms, don't spray where sun wouldn't hit (insides of elbows and underside of triceps)
WASH Hands completely with soap, not just the palms. Take special care to use soap between your fingers! DO NOT SKIP THIS STEP.

Where can i get this?

In-store:
Victoria's Secret

Mall of Milennia
Florida Mall
Fashion Square Mall
Altamonte Springs Mall
Seminole Town Center (Sanford)

Online:
Victoria's Secret Instant Bronzing and Self Tanning Spray

You'll remember this shopping day in Orlando!

2013-07-23T10:12:00.003-07:00

Score a Michael Kors Handbag at Mall of Milennia.

Michael Kors is a uniquely American designer. He zoomed to fame on Project Runway with former model Heidi Klum. His handbags and watches are iconic examples of American style.

For the whole Michael Kors experience, there's a Michael Kors store, upstairs at Mall of Milennia between Bloomingdales and Neiman Marcus. They have the latest styles in handbags and watches, but not a lot of inventory... it's that upscale, open space thing...

For the very BEST Michael Kors handbag and watch selection (much larger than the Michael Kors store), head to the other end of the Mall to Macys. Vast Michael Kors handbag and watch departments beckon to you with fresh inventory. Brand new styles come in every week, so you if you saw it online, Macys probably has it.

For a great investment that the girls will envy, ***splurge*** on a large tote or a dressy handbag that can double as a go to meeting bag, holding your iPad and folders.

For a ***cheap thrill*** score an iPhone holder with a strap. Perfect for sporting events or just running into the store. Available in lots of colors, this little bag can dip in and out of your larger purses, serving as a card and money holder and avoiding the "uh oh, my license is in my other bag" dilemma. NOTE;: Without a strap it's just a wallet and will not be nearly as useful!

if you enjoy attention, then run, don't walk to buy a brightly-colored Michael Kors bag. There are always new colors; and you'll constantly be accosted by women who just love your bag! This amazing pink goes with everything and, like wearing a great lipstick, it makes you feel pretty!

I
Finally, if there's a classic Michael Kors bag that you've always coveted, check the current version out and you'll find it''s even better! This company is always improving their products, adding pockets or zippers for example, based on customer feedback.

You, just happier and younger-looking!

2013-07-20T07:32:00.002-07:00

Want to look ten years younger?

With a few quick tips and tricks, it's easy to turn back the clock! Introducing the newest member of our blog family- Look Younger Now . You'll find the latest info and products that work for fresher skin and prettier makeup.

Today's news is from Bobbi Brown's new counter at Macy's at the Mall of Milennia. This is a full boutique within a store, one of only two in Florida, located right in the middle of the first floor. Park at either first floor entrance and it is straight ahead.

So here's the deal. Bobbi Brown is all about natural but BETTER and younger. Have a problem area or a question? That's where the Bobbi Brown approach is great. They don't try to give you a full makeover with lots of eye makeup you won't wear... they solve those tricky issues like darkening and filling in your brows without looking like Joan Crawford. Or covering blueish under-eye circles that concealer just turns gray...

Ask for Linda Carreiro when you visit the counter. A makeup artist from South Florida, she'll show you how to get the looks you want! Reach her at Makeupdiva1@yahoo.com.

Here are some of my fave Bobbi Brown ideas from Summer 2013-

Lipstick- Pick a lipstick that is your natural lip color but slightly darker. This makes you look pretty and polished but still natural. LOOK at pictures of models and actresses, they rarely have bright colored lips. If you've seen the Katie Holmes ads for Bobbi Brown, that's the look she wears...

Blush- Here's where the color goes for a natural youthful look, not on the lips! The secret is the brush. Bobbi's blush brush is about $50. Even if you don't buy it, ask to see how to use a blush brush correctly. It's not how you think!

Eyebrows- We all rely on pencil because it's easy. Well, it's not much harder to draw little strokes in the direction the brow hair grows. The difference is....well, you'll see!

Cream Eye-Shadow and Eye-Liner- If you're an advanced beginner or a pro, try cream shadows and liner. They are easy to put on and they STAY ON all day in the Florida heat and humidity. And the moister look is more youthful! I didn't believe it either, seems counter intuitive... now I'm collecting pretty colors of eye shadow.

For liner, all you need are the basics. Well-line eyes are important! They take the focus off of the little wrinkles, etc.... Black or brown to start. Add your navy or royal blue for a trendy, open-eyed look that is sexy at night without looking like a club chick.

Don't MISS the newest member of our blog family- Look Younger Now

Greens N' Grille near Mall of Milennia!

2013-07-16T15:57:00.000-07:00

Check out Greens 'N Grille near the Mall of Milennia when you want to grab a great salad or sandwich after shopping. It's an urban format, with the healthy menu on the wall and beer and wine available. Nirvana for picky eaters, dieters and vegetarians, you choose from a large variety of items and sides, including yummy seasonal selections, prepared just the way you want it.

Perfect for meeting with girlfriends or a casual date. Linger inside or out without worrying that you are taking up a server's table...

The folks behind Greens 'N Grille are the same as the Ravenous Pig and Cask & Larder. THAT'S why the food quality is so good!

Fantasy Time at Mall of Milennia

2011-10-06T10:06:00.000-07:00

Have you been a good girl lately? Here's a quick but amazing birthday or holiday trip to Mall of Milennia that will fill your trunk with loot but cost less than a single Luis Vuitton bag.

Start at Tiffanys. Head to the back wall for a stunning pair of sunglasses. These big Rachel Zoe style shades are on billboards all over America; and they are more gorgeous in person if that's possible.

Next stop, Victoria's Secret. Buy the newest featured bra and panties in a gorgeous but totally impractical color or print (leopard anyone?.) Feel glamorous and sexy.

Then Brighton. Buy a great small bag for city travel, art shows or evening wear or a black or tortoise silver-trimmed hair bangle. Whatever catches your eye. Something for everyone and it's all pretty and reasonably priced. The customer service is great. Btw Brighton will send you a new purse if yours breaks, even years later.

Now for another highlight, an American fave and my new cheap chic obsession. Michael Kors. You must have the fabulous big gold watch featured in VOGUE and everywhere else. It comes in several sizes and styles, so you can pick the one that works best for you. Then, shoes. For about hundred dollars, you'll get a Jimmy Choo- like high. Take the stylists recommendation and be daring!

Note: Don't buy purses at MK. They are boring. You'll do better at Bloomingdales or Neiman Marcus if you like names on your purses.

If you have time, also at Neiman Marcus, get a Trish McEvoy makeover. You'll look pretty, natural and ten years younger. Plus, you'll have a pretty makeup planner that holds the whole look to take home. Makeup planners make your life easy and your man happy, especially when space is at a premium like on a cruise.

If your date or sponsor is a good cook, humor him with a stop at Williams Sonoma to savor the seasonal offerings and buy him a spatula or something. If he's not a cook, the espresso machines at Bloomies are a cool diversion.

Top off a great trip to Mall of Milennia with a Starbucks stop or maybe some Godiva or Lindt chocolate. Now that's a sweet day.

Love Pandora? Get the look for less at Mall at Milennia

2011-09-01T07:34:00.000-07:00

Check out Landau near the food court at Mall at Millennia for great "like the real thing" versions of your fave designer jewelry.

Ambrosia is Landau's new Pandora-style collection. All frequent customers received a mailing that a $75 dollar bracelet is on sale for 20 something dollars.

Landau gets new styles all the time, so their clearance items are usually fresh styles! If you hit on a good day, there will be bowls of earrings marked down to less than $10. When you wear them, you will get compliments all day long.

Like Tiffany Celebration rings? Landau has a collection that is so good that it fools the jewelers. Seriously, I get compliments in jewelry departments all the time! The key is to use the CLEAR stones. Ask one of the great managers there for her ideas on the best combos. That's what I do.

On the same note, there is a great table full of affordable bracelets designed to wear as multiples. You can do a David Yurman style or just express yourself!

If you have an event, bring in the dress you just scored at Mall of Milennia! Landau will hook up up with a whole ensemble to go with it for a fraction of what you'd pay elsewhere. They'll "style" you. It's fun!

Celebration

2011-08-28T09:10:00.000-07:00

Looking for a stress-free, low cost wonderful afternoon near Disney? Celebration fits the bill.

Celebration is Disney's charming anywhere USA town that was built from the ground up in the mid-80's. People came from all over the country to be in a lottery just for the chance to purchase a home in the town. The idea (a dream of Walt's) was that this would be a place where children could ride their bikes safely, a bit of a utopia. Disney is no longer involved but Celebration thrives as a gorgeous town with a lovely lake-front city center and golf course. It's quite large with its own high school.

For children, there is a wonderful outdoor fountain to play in (like the one at the Marketplace but smaller), a lakefront walk (great for strollers), good casual restaurants with outdoor seating and a fun bakery. You can grab a latte at Starbucks or relax on their outdoor patio before you stroll the shops on the main street.

There is a large Columbia restaurant in Celebration. A very popular standby based in Ybor city in Tampa, you can enjoy a leisurely Spanish-Cuban meal here... It's fun and different, kid friendly. Great for large groups.

Celebration dresses up for the holidays and has "snow" once a week. It's a kind of soap bubble concoction that comes down on cue to absolutely enchant the kids. Drive around and look at the lights in the neighborhoods... it's magical!

Mall at Milennia for Kidz!

2011-08-19T08:24:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Orlando's premiere shopping destination, Mall at Milennia. Think it's too fancy for kids? Think again. There's enough to keep them happily entertained for hours. Without lines or gate charges!

Park near the Mall at Milennia food court upstairs or Neiman Marcus downstairs. Why? Great fountains in both places! Plus the best central locations with lots of spaces. Don't make the usual visitor mistake and park by Macys, which is always bustling, but stuck at the end of the less interesting and upscale side of Mall of Milennia.

Upstairs by the doors in the center of Mall at Milennia, there is a large outdoor fountain and then, voila, you are in a huge food court. There are immense, clean bathrooms on your left with changing tables and room for strollers. Plus full length mirrors that are fun for toddlers to watch themselves in! If older kids or men are waiting for the rest of the family, they can sit on comfy benches outside the restrooms and play with their cell phones.

If you park downstairs, walk to the right of Neiman Marcus, past the outside patio of Brio restaurant to the bank of doors and enter here. (Neiman Marcus is not kid friendly, despite the great service, it's just too quiet!) Inside these doors you'll find a gorgeous long fountain with a small bridge through it. There's lots of seating on the flat granite on the side of the fountain and kids are always running around. It's prime people watching, too.

If you have a little money to spend and aren't in a hurry, put your name on the waiting list at Cheesecake Factory. One person can stay and wait while the others do whatever. Kids of all ages LOVE this restaurant. The menu is extensive, the food is delicious and the desserts are amazing. It's noisy and fun, perfect for large multi-generational groups.

Brio is also bustling; and the food is very good. An upscale experience with an open kitchen, white tablecloths and attentive service at the same prices as Cheesecake factory. More bistro than Italian, there's also a nice bar here if someone wants to catch the game or just needs a break. If you're a healthy eater, you'll find wonderful chicken (a house specialty), fish and salads here. Locals love Brio for casual meals. Sit outside if the weather is nice.

Past the downstairs fountain are stairs, elevators and escalators to the Mall at Milennia food court above. You'll find Starbucks upstairs and downstairs.

Upstairs, at the entrance to the Mall at Milennia food court are two VERY child-friendly, reasonably- priced restaurants, Panera Bread on the right and California Pizza Kitchen on the left. Panera has great pastries and bagels, which they toast on request and sandwiches/soup. Plus very good coffee. California Pizza Kitchen has, well, pizza, and other good lunch or casual dinner fare.

Looking for free food to fill up hungry pre-teens? They'll love walking the Mall at Milennia food court to get free bourbon and sesame chicken samples. Sometimes they can get smoothies, cookies and garlic bread too! It's fun and filling.

For a quick sweet treat for all, hit the Lindt store inside the mall, just past the Mall at Milennia food court. With a great selection of individual pieces of chocolate and chocolate bars, satisfy everyone for a ridiculously small amount of money. Gift shopping? Snag a charming seasonal gift or cute wrapped item (Santa, Bunny, etc.) to add to a basket or wrapped package.

Mall at Milennia stores kids love

Here's a list to get you started. Add your faves.

Electronics
Game Stop for video games, FYE for popular culture items, including music, videos, posters, etc., the Apple store for... Apple, the Sony store for... Sony, Urban Outfitters for cheap accessories and room gear

Cool Clothes
Guess, Hollister, Bebe, Juicy Couture, Anthropology, Bloomingdales, Pink at the huge Victorias Secret, Urban Outfitters (again), Forever 21 (immense store!)

Miscellaneous
Williams Sonoma for kids that cook (and free samples), Museum Store for smart kids, Pottery Barn Kids, Brookstone

Special note
Dylan's Candy Bar in Bloomingdales (Ground Floor to right of inside mall entrance) is fun for everyone!

Kids LOVE Florida Mall

2011-08-18T09:57:00.000-07:00

Going to Florida Mall with your Kids?

Drive around to the BACK of Florida Mall and park near Macy's. This is the newer, more upscale side of the mall. It's also home to the nicer stores and the best attractions.

First and foremost, don't miss the M & M Store! Kids love this. They will talk about it for weeks!

Then walk to Adrenalina to see locals surfing in the surf tank. Really, an actual surf tank in a store in the Florida Mall. It's a great surf store, too, with a huge selection.

Looking for adorable all-American mini-prep clothes? Hit the large Abercrombie & Fitch Kids store. Make sure you go to the right one.... Florida Mall is so huge that there is a separate A & F store for teens too!

For young children and pre-teen girls, Build-A-Bear is a must see. There you can watch or participate in building a personalized stuffed bear or dog or rabbit or... whatever. They are all adorable and a great keepsake from Orlando. You can build a cheerleading bear or a Yankees fan bear or... you get the idea. They have tons of accessories, too. My fave is the mini-cell phone. Every bear needs one.

A highlight for the teenage girls (and their Moms) is Sephora. Make-up heaven with great cult brands like MakeUp Forever and Nars, plus upscale standbys like Dior and Chanel. Makeovers are FREE. It is located is right next to the M & M Store in the new part of Florida Mall.

Hungry yet? Or just need caffeine? Head to the middle of the mall for the Florida Mall food court. It's international and fun with lots of great food choices, but- warning- it is noisy. Perfect for kids, awful for a date or a serious convo.

Near the food court, teen boys can check out Gamestop for the latest video games.

Now for that latte, there is a Starbucks by the Florida Mall food court. Even better, there is a wonderful little Euro-cafe-stand attached to Nordstrom. Yummy, they have snacks and a few sandwiches too. There are also cute white tables in the mall there, so if your baby is sleeping quietly, you can relax in a quiet sunny spot in the AC. Or you can just let the tribe run around for a while, since there is plenty of space and it's a relatively quiet part of the mall.

For a sit-down lunch or dinner, try Buca de Beppo between Macys and Nordstrom. Famed for huge portions, it's very casual and fun for large groups. Not a date spot, but a fun time with good food.

Nordstrom also has a lovely undiscovered cafe on the second floor. Food quality and service are very good. Children are welcome. You can even get a nice glass of wine.

Have fun in Florida Mall!

Disney Marketplace: No lines. Kids LOVE this place.

2011-08-15T12:11:00.000-07:00

Looking for some cool Orlando-only attractions that don't cost anything? This is the first in a series on local favorites that are great for kids. Today's discovery is Downtown Disney Marketplace

Disney Marketplace is always a low stress, fun place for families. Imagine an attraction where you can experience the Magic without lines or turnstiles!

Don't park by Cirque de Soleil or House of Blues. That is the wrong end of the complex, literally miles from the child-friendly party of Downtown Disney. Drive to the other end of the parking lot for "Disney Marketplace".

Locals visit the Marketplace for the Lego store which has a great outdoor play area, the Ghirardelli soda fountain and Ice cream parlor (chocolate ice cream- amazing) and the huge Disney toy store, which features a giant Mr Potato Head and myriad versions of Disney toys.

Need a break? Sit and enjoy a cool drink at tables by the lake while the toddlers run around. Moms love this!

If your children are older, there is a HUGE fountain where they can run in and out of the water. Trust me, you will have to pull them away, they can do this for hours! Luckily, there is a great Disney food store right next door for the inevitable hunger that strikes after this type of action.

If you want to splurge a little and you have time, put your name on the list at Rainforest Cafe. For elementary school-aged kids, this place is magic. You have to eat anyway, right? The animatronic animals and simulated rainstorms are great. The food is good, too and they have a full bar, great for weary parents. The bar is large and usually uncrowded compared to the very popular restaurant, a good spot for Dad to watch the game if the vacation coincides with the playoffs in his favorite sport. Finally, even if you don't eat at RC, check out their gift shop. Lots of fun items, especially for pre-teens.

Seasonally, the Marketplace dresses up for holidays and there are events for children. If you are here for the holidays, don't miss the Christmas shopping and decor.

Be Cool at Mall of Milennia

2011-08-12T11:13:00.000-07:00

For a nice afternoon that costs you nothing unless you succumb to wiles of the retail genie, hit the gorgeous Mall of Milennia.

Park at Neiman Marcus.

Walk through the ground floor, admiring the men's and women's jewelry and then the cosmetics, shoes and fragrances. It's a short but enjoyable walk through to the mall.

If you love art and beautiful things or need to hit the restroom, take the escalator upstairs at Neiman's. The restrooms are in the back on the left, the "gallery" is on your immediate right. The collections change seasonally, but always lots of beautiful things to inspire creativity and desire.

Once you get to the mall, head left for Bloomingdales. On the way, there are lots of nice stops, including a Pottery Barn Home store.

New at Bloomingdales, on the ground floor past cosmetics, is a Nespresso gallery. Here, handsome men will demonstrate how the machines work, making real drinks that taste like Italy. It's the best free show around.

This store has good service in all departments. Need free styling advice for an event or an interview? Want to try the latest perfumes? Just ask.

Head back to the center of the mall by leaving the second floor of Bloomingdales. You'll pass lots of upscale labels. Some local faves are Tiffany and Gucci. New arrivals are Juicy Couture and Michael Kors. Don't be unnerved by the security guards, just act like you belong there.

The food court is in the center of the mall on the second floor PAST where you entered through Neiman Marcus. There's a Starbucks upstairs and one downstairs. If the lines are too long at Starbucks, head to the back of the food court for Panera Bread, where you can get very good coffee with a bagel or pastry. Note: the restrooms in the food court are extensive and clean.

The other half of the mall, while very nice, is not as upscale or entertaining. If you need something in particular, there are lots of everyday stores that may have it- Ann Taylor, Bath and Body Works, Kenneth Cole, (a huge 3-story) Macy's, etc. There's an Urban Outfitters and an enormous Forever 21 across from the food court.

Enjoy!

Mall of Milennia Update

2010-11-14T21:13:00.000-08:00

If you are in Orlando on vacation, make sure you leave time for a visit to Mall of Milennia.

A favorite destination for locals and visitors alike, this is an attraction that everyone enjoys.
The anchor stores at Mall of Milennia are a huge Macys, a great Neiman Marcus and a trendy Bloomingdales.
In between, you'll find everything from a wing of luxury retailers including Tiffany, Gucci and Lous Vuitton to upscale home stores Pottery Barn and Williams Sonoma to clothing boutiques like Lucky Jeans and IZOD.
If you crave some caffeine or a snack, there are two Starbucks in the center of the mall on both levels. In the back of the food court (also located in the center of the mall on the second floor), you'll find Panera Bread, where you can get great coffee and coffee drinks as well as a bagel or sweet treat (try the sticky pecan rolls and big cookies) to go with them.
On the other side of the food court from Starbucks, you'll find the Lindt chocolate store. Buy a truffle or a dark chocolate bar to enjoy as you stroll the mall.

True Religion Outlet! New in Orlando!

2010-05-19T16:42:00.001-07:00

The True Religion outlet has arrived in Orlando. If you are a fan of these uber-flattering jeans, come to the Premium Outlet mall for the latest styles.

Juniors and Jeans at Vanity Fair!

2010-03-16T07:04:00.000-07:00

Don't miss the Vanity Fair outlet in Kissimmee. This HUGE outlet is full of surprises, including the complete line of Lee Jeans for men, women and children, Jansport backpacks and accessories and department store-style junior clothes.

Looking for lingerie for a steal? You'll find lots of it here. Brands include Marilyn Monroe, Delta Burke (great quality shapers, you go girl!) and of course, Vanity Fair. Teen alert- you can find racks and racks of cotton cuties,Victoria's Secret Pink look-alikes, here too.

Best of all, the Junior Department is awesome. LOTS of date-worthy jeans and tops and toppers for practically nothing. The selection changes all the time so stop by often.

Location: 1567 South Apopka Vineland Road (SR 535) at the Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores. LBVFS is an easy to shop, low-stress outlet mall with small versions of many of the big guys- Gap, Reebok, Nike, etc. There is also a cute little food court with a fountain and outdoor seating.

True Religion is coming to Premium Outlets!

2010-03-03T06:30:00.000-08:00

Desiring those $200 Billy jeans with the flap pockets, but don't want to pay the high mall price? Starting in early May, you can score a pair at the new True Religion outlet in the Premium outlet mall.

In the meantime, try Neiman Marcus Last Call or the Saks outlet in the Prime outlet mall.

New at Milennia- Fast Fix Jeweler

2010-02-27T13:28:00.000-08:00

At Mall of Milennia, get your broken necklace fixed and a new battery put in your dress watch while you shop. Buy a watch or bracelet in the mall, take it down there and get the links taken out to wear your find right away.

Next to Bloomingdale's on the lower level, you'll find the Fast Fix store. The staff is courteous and the work is done quickly and expertly.

Don't miss Florida Mall!

2010-02-17T17:07:00.000-08:00

Florida Mall is great fun for a day trip. Here are some highlights, and there are many more!

Adrenalina- Huge surf shop with "indoor surf experience" (wave tank). If you are lucky, you can watch the resident hot guys surf (think Abercrombie guy on a board).

Build A Bear workshop- Younger children and tween girls love making custom bears and other stuffed animals like bunnies and raccoons. There's a great selection of accessories to personalize the toys, so the result can be unique as a cheerleader soccer bear with a cell phone.

M & M store- Huge store devoted to the ubiquitous candy. Something for everyone including clothes, toys and race-themed items. Plus an M & M buffet where you pay by the pound.

Sephora- Cult favorite cosmetic, hair and skin care brands including Makeup Forever, Fekkai and Perricone and many more, plus the latest fragrances for men and women. Great assortment of makeup brushes and cases. Always something new. Find great gifts in any price range. Grab something new to slip into your suitcase.

Teavana- High quality loose tea of all kinds plus tea accessories, including teapots and strainers. Always has cold and hot teas too sample.

Saks Fifth Avenue- Orlando's only Saks. Great for cosmetics, costume jewelry, womens status accessories and purses. Don't miss Armani makeup counter by the mall entrance, staffed by talented makeup artists. Pure genius and very low pressure.

Nordstrom coffee shop- between Nordstrom and the mall, a quick serve coffee shop with friendly service, good quality coffee drinks, some cute coffee-themed gifts and snacks.

Nordstrom- Perfume, shoes and accessories departments. All three are located right by the mall entrance, great if your feet are already tired. Kudos to the Nordstrom buyers manage to find shoes, jewelry and hair accessories that are unique and stylish, yet affordable. You can get a large custom sample of any perfume even the very latest exclusives.

Florida Mall- the best restrooms.

2010-02-17T16:43:00.000-08:00

Florida Mall has nice clean bathrooms in:

The M & M store

Nordstrom

Sax Fifth Avenue

Note: The public bathrooms get too much traffic and locals avoid them.