Last Minute Christmas Shopping in Birmingham
The Holiday Season has finally arrived and with Christmas just days away, you’ll still find plenty of great shopping in and around The Retreat at Mountain Brook. Now is the best time to finish checking off all of those gifts you plan to give for those on your “nice” list, with all sorts of stores close to home. The Idea Specialists at The Retreat at Mountain Brook in Birmingham, have checked out several buzz-worthy shopping-hives nearby in Leeds, Mountain Brook, kitschy Forest Park, and Homewood. We think you’ll find the perfect spot to begin and end your holiday shopping, finding exactly what you need to complete your Yuletide shopping checklist. Brookwood Village Christmas is the season of giving. You may still need to find the ideal gift for your loved one or colleague. The Retreat at Mountain Brook is conveniently located just minutes from Brookwood Village between Mountain Brook and Homewood. This is where you want to go when really pressed for time and need one-stop shopping. Visit Brookwood’s Concierge Desk for gift certificates that can be used anywhere mall-wide, and delight friends and family with abundant choices to spend their holiday dollars from you. Homewood – Alabama Goods This special little shop is full of locally made and crafted goods, featuring makers from across Alabama. Voted “Best Gift Shop in Homewood” you’ll find pottery, books, home décor and SO much more all made right here in Alabama. Located at 2933, 18th Street South, Homewood, Ala., 35209. The Outlet Shops of Grand River Another shopping mecca sure to delight gift-givers is The Outlet Shops of Grand River in Leeds, Alabama — also a quick drive 10-15 minutes from The Retreat at Mountain Brook. Voted the “Best Shopping District in Birmingham,” by Birmingham Magazine, and honored by Audubon International for Environmental Design, this amazing shopping destination features shops like Coach, Artists Incorporated and Mountain High Outfitters. For the budding or seasoned chef, be sure and visit Le Creuset to find the latest in kitchen accoutrements, or Michael Kors for a lovely selection of leather goods to give and receive! Located at Grand River Blvd East, Leeds, Ala. 35094. Crestline Village – Mountain Brook Who would think about finding fabulous gifts in a pharmacy? Well, the Idea Specialists, that’s who! We scoured the sidewalk shopping in Crestline Village in Mountain Brook, and found Crestline Pharmacy, which not only has a fabulous — and we mean fabulous — gift shop and a Christmas Store located just around the corner. They also offer free gift wrap! ….and right around the corner from Crestline Pharmacy is Oak Street Garden Shop, which you’ve heard us speak of many times. Go to Oak Street for paper-whites, amaryllis and spruce shavings to make your apartment have the heavenly smells of the Holiday! Forest Park Also, literally just minutes from The Retreat at Mountain Brook is Zoe’s Boutique, seriously, one of the best and most entertaining re-sale store in Birmingham. Here you will find clothes for men and women and gifts for all; contemporary and vintage, accessories, costumes … wigs and all other sorts of cool stuff! Those who love Zoe’s have a flair for life — seeking adventure, laughter and a sunny disposition. They often find unique clothes and gifts for just a song and giggle as the leave — a bit happier than when they came in! Located in downtown Forest Park at 3900 Clairmont Avenue South, Birmingham, Alabama As always, the team at the Retreat at Mountain Brook is here to help! Let us know what we can do for you this holiday season!
Thanksgiving in Birmingham, Black Friday and the Iron Bowl
It’s a big week in Birmingham, Alabama, starting with Thanksgiving, Black Friday and the Iron Bowl on Saturday, when rivals from The University of Alabama and Auburn University vie for the state championship and year-long bragging rights. So, let’s do a quick recap of what we have to be thankful for this Thanksgiving, beginning with just a few of the reasons we LOVE living at the Retreat at Mountain Brook. Our 1, 2 and 3-bedroom flats and townhomes are LARGE – from 1,060 to 1,900 square feet Nestled against a neighborhood like no other – Mountain Brook, Ala. Beautifully appointed kitchens for entertaining Impressive Fitness Centers Free Wi-Fi in each resident clubhouse and a big screen TV Electric Fire Places Our location Look at these floorplans! The Retreat at Mountain Brook is located minutes from downtown Birmingham, Crestline, and Avondale. Easy access to I-59, I-20, 459 and 280, makes getting places a breeze, especially T-town/Auburn, and Black Friday sales. Here’s a list of shopping opportunities compiled of by BhamNow: Black Friday at Local Malls –The Galleria, The Summit and The Brookwood Village Mall will be open for Black Friday sales. The Riverchase Galleria:open 6pm – midnight on Thanksgiving Day, 6am – 10pm on Black Friday The Summit:closed on Thanksgiving, open 9am – 9pm on Black Friday Brookwood Village:closed on Thanksgiving, open 7am – 9pm on Black Friday. (First 250 people in line will receive a shopping tote, retailer coupons and a gift card valued from $5-$500.) Take a Photo with Santa –November 10 through December 24, head over to Bass Pro Shops in Leeds to see Santa. Take a FREE photo with him in Santa’s Wonderland! North Pole Pop-Up at The Summit: Starting on Black Friday, stop by The Summit for photos with Santa, locally-made candy, boutiques and more. Brrrmingham Ice-Skating Rink Opening Day –Not interested in a great deal on some shoes? Just want a family day? Enjoy Birmingham’s only outdoor ice-skating rink at Railroad Park. The rink opens at 10 am. Buy tickets in advance here. Christmas cards – Sure, you can pick up a box at the drugstore. Want your pup or kids on the front? You might consider Village Press in Mountain Brook Village. They’ve been doing something right since 1965. Get a ride – Want to avoid the traffic but take in the fun? Try a ride with UBERor LYFT. And then of course, you’ll want to know where to go to enjoy the Iron Bowl – here’s the details: The Iron Bowl – Even if you’re not a die-hard Alabama or Auburn fan, you won’t want to miss this game. Game details: Kickoff time: 2:30 CDT on CBS Where to watch: Iron City, SkyCastle and other sports bar faves in town. If you’re interested in gaming while you watch the game, check out the new Dave & Buster’s at the Riverchase Galleria! Grand opening is Monday, November 19. Druid City Music Hall is hosting a free Iron Bowl Gameday Party with doors opening at 11:00. Plan on staying in on Thanksgiving? Be sure and snuggle up with a Sherpa Throw from Target, or a faux fur comforter from nearby Pottery Barn at the Summit, both just a short drive away from The Retreat at Mountain Brook, a/k/a home sweet home? These cozy comforters offer up a stylish way to stay warm, while adding to the warmth of your décor. And, nothing says Thanksgiving like watching the Macy’s Day Parade to really get into the holiday spirit. Or, if TV is not your game, treat yourself to a good read and a premium bottle of wine from R & R Wine and Liquor in Crestline Village, about 12 minutes away from The Retreat at 81 Church St, Mountain Brook, AL 35213. Here’s a recipe for a great party dip. You’re welcome. And as always, from all the staff at The Retreat at Mountain Brook, we wish a happy Thanksgiving and a happy holiday season. Please call the office if we can provide service over the Thanksgiving holiday or anytime you need us! 205-956-9722
Looking for Spooky Things to do This Halloween Season?
Never let it be said that there’s nothing to do in Birmingham, Alabama. The Idea Specialists at The Retreat at Mountain Brook are always on the prowl to provide you with the latest and greatest ideas for entertainment, decor, style and more! Check out these upcoming October events by following the links to the SPOOKTACULAR details. 1: Boo at the Zoo Presented by Wells Fargo Watch as the Zoo transforms into a destination of spooky attractions, themed rides and carnival games for 18 nights! Birmingham Zoo 2630 Cahaba Road Birmingham, AL 35223 • Oct 11, 2018 at 05:00 pm – 09:00 pm (Thu) • Oct 12, 2018 at 05:00 pm – 09:00 pm (Fri) • Oct 13, 2018 at 05:00 pm – 09:00 pm (Sat) • Oct 14, 2018 at 05:00 pm – 09:00 pm (Sun) • Oct 18, 2018 at 05:00 pm – 09:00 pm (Thu) • Oct 19, 2018 at 05:00 pm – 09:00 pm (Fri) • Oct 20, 2018 at 05:00 pm – 09:00 pm (Sat) • Oct 21, 2018 at 05:00 pm – 09:00 pm (Sun) • Oct 22, 2018 at 05:00 pm – 09:00 pm (Mon) • Oct 23, 2018 at 05:00 pm – 09:00 pm (Tue) 2: Up All Night (mare) Halloween Horror Marathon Magic City Midnight Movies is celebrating Halloween AND the one year anniversary of Magic City Midnight Movies with their biggest event yet! It’s sure to be an October night to fill you with fright! There will be 4 secret horror flick screenings, each revolving around the greatest holiday of the year – Halloween, including one film voted on by YOU, the audience! DATE AND TIME Sat, Oct 13, 2018, 6:00 PM –Sun, Oct 14, 2018, 2:00 AM CDT LOCATION Jumpin’ Jax Party Place 1840 Gadsden Highway #100 Birmingham, AL 35235 3: The Rocky Horror Masquerade Ball Don’t Dream It… Be It! Don’t miss Birmingham’s most extravagant Halloween event Alabama Theatre 1817 3rd Avenue North Birmingham, AL Friday October 19 2018 – 6:30 PM – 11:00 PM 4: Witches Ball 2018 in Birmingham This year is pirated themed and the decorations will be off the charts! The biggest and best Halloween party in Birmingham brought to you by Books, Beans and Candles (BBCMS), hosted by WorkPlay! WorkPlay Theatre 500 23rd St S Birmingham, AL 35233 Oct 20, 2018 7:00 PM | Saturday 5: 27th Annual Halloween Fairyland The Tannehill Halloween Festival, a non-scary fun-filled holiday event focused on the campgrounds, annually attracts over 6,000 visitors, most of them children. Begun in 1992, the Halloween event features park-sponsored programs during the afternoon and traditional Halloween candy “trick or treat” stops at more than 200 campsites during the evening. Park events include moonwalks, face painting, balloon animals, a bungee jump, along with a train rides for a small additional charge. Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park 12632 Confederate Parkway, Bessemer, AL 35111 Oct 27, 2018 at 11:00 am – 09:00 pm (Sat) 6: Camp-O-Ween ALL overnight guests at Oak Mountain State Park are invited to attend our annual Halloween Celebration in the campground! Pack your costume and decorate your site! Sat, 27 Oct 2018, 11:00 PM – Sun, 28 Oct 2018, 03:00 AM Hosted By Oak Mountain State Park 200 Terrace Drive Pelham, Alabama 35124 7: Iron City Fright Club Presents: Halloween Iron City Fright Club will be showing the original “Halloween” beginning at 7:30pm. See you there! Mon Oct 29 2018 at 6:30 p.m. Ghost Train Brewing Co. 2616 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham, Alabama 35233
10 Free Things to do in Birmingham
Do you ever find yourself wanting to get out and explore the Magic City, but you don’t want to break the bank? You’re in luck! We’ve rounded up 10 interesting and entertaining activities that you can do in Birmingham without having to spend a dime. After all, the best things in life are free, right? From exploring a local farmer’s market to catching a show at one of Avondale’s coolest venues, here are 10 free things to do in Birmingham! 10 Free Things to Do in Birmingham 1. Admire the art at the Birmingham Museum of Art. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon admiring beautiful pieces of art from the United States and Europe at Birmingham Museum of Art, where you can feast your eyes on more than 24,000 paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings and decorative arts. General admission and parking are free. An afternoon spent at the Birmingham Museum of Art is one full of visual stimulation and cultural exploration. 2. Visit the Birmingham Civil Rights District. Step foot in an iconic area of downtown Birmingham where many significant events of the 1950s and ’60s took place. These landmarks include 16th Street Baptist Church, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Kelly Ingram Park and Bethel Baptist Church, all of which were named the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument in 2017. Also, be sure to explore the nearby Fourth Avenue Business District, where the Carver Theatre houses the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame. This is a perfect free activity if you want to learn about the history of the Magic City. The 16th Street Baptist Church is the beating heart of the Birmingham Civil Rights District. Across the street from the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and diagonal from Kelly Ingram Park, the 16th Street Baptist Church was founded as The First Colored Baptist Church of Birmingham in 1873. Condemned by the city, a new church was designed by black architect Wallace Rayfield in 1911. During the Civil Rights Movement, black protesters met at the church to organize protests. On September 15, 1963, Ku Klux Klan members planted dynamite in the church’s basement, which killed four young girls — Addie Mae Collins, Carole Robertson, Cynthia Wesley and Denise McNair. A statue stands in their honor across the street from the church, depicting four girls, one releasing doves. 3. Stroll through Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Walk through what is known as “Alabama’s largest living museum,” with more than 10,000 plants. Widely recognized as the most visited free attraction in Alabama, guests can stroll through gorgeous gardens and get lost in nature. There are picnic tables, a gift shop and a café that serves lunch, too. The Birmingham Botanical Gardens is one of the most beautiful ways to relax and explore the Magic City. Admission is free. 4. Spend an afternoon at one of Birmingham’s parks and trails. Birmingham is full of beautiful, fun and free parks and trails available for those looking to get some exercise, explore the city’s natural beauty or simply get some fresh air. A few of our favorites include: Railroad Park & Rotary Trail The Kiwanis Centennial Park and Vulcan Trail Red Mountain Park Oak Mountain State Park Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve Moss Rock Preserve Railroad Park hosts plenty of free cooking and exercise classes for Birminghamians. Visit their website to see the schedule. 5. Explore a local neighborhood. If you’re wanting to get to know our city a little better, we’ve got the guides you need. From the Theatre District and Downtown Birmingham to Old Town Helena, Mt. Laurel and Bluff Park, each of the city’s neighborhoods have their own unique personality with shops, eateries and fun activities to keep you busy all day. This is the perfect way to spend a weekend without having to break the bank! Here’s how to get the most out of each neighborhood: The Preserve at Moss Rock: Where Southern Style, Fresh Eats & Untouched Nature Meet Taste the World Along the Green Springs Corridor Bluff Park: Hoover’s 150-Year-Old Mountain Town A Day in Crestwood North: Where to Eat, Shop & Play Escape to the Gorgeous Town of Mt Laurel Old Town Helena: A Day of Boutiques and Eats! Lights Up on the Theatre District! Let’s Visit Leeds: Creativity Blooms Amid Small-Town Charm Second Avenue North: Where Creativity Meets Diversity What to Do in Avondale, the “Ham’s” Hippest Haven Buck Creek runs parallel to the railroad in downtown Helena and serves as the town park. 6. Take a tour of the Golden Flake Factory. Have you ever wondered how your favorite potato chips were made? Visit the Golden Flake Factory and see the process, from potato to chip! Eat hot and fresh chips right off the factory line at this interactive 45-minute tour. Tours are completely free, but you must call in advance to make a reservation. Tour times are at 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. This fun and free opportunity to see how potato chips are made is perfect for kids of all ages. Eat hot and fresh chips right off the factory line at an interactive 45-minute tour of the Golden Flake Factory. Tours are free! 7. Have fun at one of Birmingham’s libraries. Don’t forget to take advantage of the free seminars, writing workshops, kids’ activities, plays, concerts and more at each of Birmingham’s public libraries. Admission is free, and there is always something new and exciting going on. Check out the schedules at the Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest, Homewood Public Library, Birmingham Public Library, Emmet O’Neal Library and Avondale Public Library to see whats going on. The Vestavia Hills Library is surrounded by lush greenery, as well as walking trails, making it the ideal escape for a day of work or fun. 8. Explore Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark. Admission is completely free to take a look at Alabama’s iconic industrial heritage, where pig iron was produced from 1882 to 1971. Sloss Furnaces is a national historic landmark that every Birminghamian or visitor to the Magic City
A Lesson on Labor Day, and a List of Local Events for Celebrating the Holiday Weekend
As the holiday weekend approaches, our Idea Specialists at The Retreat at Mountain Brook thought you might want recommendations on how to celebrate Labor Day in the Magic City, as well fall back in time with a brief lesson on how Labor Day became one of our national holidays. Here’s a link to Labor Day events around Birmingham, from our friends at Bham Now. Labor Day: What it Means Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country. Labor Day Legislation The first governmental recognition came through municipal ordinances passed in 1885 and 1886. From these, a movement developed to secure state legislation. The first state bill was introduced into the New York legislature, but the first to become law was passed by Oregon on February 21, 1887. During 1887 four more states — Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York — created the Labor Day holiday by legislative enactment. By the end of the decade Connecticut, Nebraska, and Pennsylvania had followed suit. By 1894, 23 more states had adopted the holiday, and on June 28, 1884, Congress passed an act making the first Monday in September of each year a legal holiday in the District of Columbia and the territories. Founder of Labor Day More than a century after the first Labor Day observance, there is still some doubt as to who first proposed the holiday for workers. Some records show that Peter J. McGuire, general secretary of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners and a co-founder of the American Federation of Labor, was first in suggesting a day to honor those “who from rude nature have delved and carved all the grandeur we behold.” But Peter McGuire’s place in Labor Day history has not gone unchallenged. Many believe that Matthew Maguire, a machinist, not Peter McGuire, founded the holiday. Recent research seems to support the contention that Matthew Maguire, later the secretary of Local 344 of the International Association of Machinists in Paterson, N.J., proposed the holiday in 1882 while serving as secretary of the Central Labor Union in New York. What is clear is that the Central Labor Union adopted a Labor Day proposal and appointed a committee to plan a demonstration and picnic. The First Labor Day The first Labor Day holiday was celebrated on Tuesday, September 5, 1882, in New York City, in accordance with the plans of the Central Labor Union. The Central Labor Union held its second Labor Day holiday just a year later, on September 5, 1883. In 1884 the first Monday in September was selected as the holiday, as originally proposed, and the Central Labor Union urged similar organizations in other cities to follow the example of New York and celebrate a “workingmen’s holiday” on that date. The idea spread with the growth of labor organizations, and in 1885 Labor Day was celebrated in many industrial centers of the country. A Nationwide Holiday The form that the observance and celebration of Labor Day should take was outlined in the first proposal of the holiday — a street parade to exhibit to the public “the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations” of the community, followed by a festival for the recreation and amusement of the workers and their families. This became the pattern for the celebrations of Labor Day. Speeches by prominent men and women were introduced later, as more emphasis was placed upon the economic and civic significance of the holiday. Still later, by a resolution of the American Federation of Labor convention of 1909, the Sunday preceding Labor Day was adopted as Labor Sunday and dedicated to the spiritual and educational aspects of the labor movement. The character of the Labor Day celebration has undergone a change in recent years, especially in large industrial centers where mass displays and huge parades have proved a problem. This change, however, is more a shift in emphasis and medium of expression. Labor Day addresses by leading union officials, industrialists, educators, clerics and government officials are given wide coverage in newspapers, radio, and television. The vital force of labor added materially to the highest standard of living and the greatest production the world has ever known and has brought us closer to the realization of our traditional ideals of economic and political democracy. It is appropriate, therefore, that the nation pays tribute on Labor Day to the creator of so much of the nation’s strength, freedom, and leadership — the American worker. We all hope that you all have a fun and safe holiday weekend!
The Retreat at Mountain Brook – Where Southern Charm Meets Modern Vibe
With just a 10-minute drive to hip neighborhoods like Avondale, Crestwood and Crestline Village in Mountain Brook — and only a 5-minute drive to creature comforts Publix and Starbucks — The Retreat at Mountain Brook celebrates modern, easy, apartment living in Birmingham, Ala. “Nestled against the city of Mountain Brook, The Retreat was designed to bring back the notions of community, neighborhood, and convenience,” says Natausha Oakes, community manager at The Retreat at Mountain Brook. “It’s a community where every detail makes luxury seem simple.” The Retreat offers one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, as well as townhomes, in 3 distinctive villages; Greenbriar, Highland, and Canterbury. Each village has a resort-style salt water pool with grilling stations for outdoor entertaining. “The spacious indoor and outdoor spaces deliver warm, welcoming, and enduring sentiments — making for a home-like atmosphere.” From fully renovated chef inspired kitchens with stainless appliances, to separate dining rooms, outdoor living spaces like balconies, sunrooms, or a patio with a fenced-in yard, The Retreat has gained a reputation for providing open, expansive residences that feel charming, yet modern. “Our spacious floor plans are equipped to accommodate a variety of lifestyles,” explains Oakes. “For example, our 2-bedroom townhomes have floor plans ideal for a large family, or roommates. Each apartment is furnished with a washer and dryer, and each living room has an electric fireplace that adds to the ambience.” “We host events tailored to our residents, like Breakfast on the Go, Wine Down by the Pool, and we recently hosted our first Yappy Hour at our dog-park. It was a huge success and loads of fun for everyone,” says Oakes. “The Retreat at Mountain Brook is a great place to live and work and gives Birmingham dwellers the opportunity to take part in our city’s resurgence and engage in the cool, modern southern lifestyle.
Update your Digs this fall at Patina, in Mountain Brook Village
With the slightest hint of the fall season, SEC Football, a glimpse of fall fashion, or as leaves begin to turn, it’s a que that change is just around the corner. When we think of seasonal change our thoughts turn to refreshing not just our personal wardrobes, but our surroundings, with new home décor and accessories. The Idea Specialists at The Retreat at Mountain Brook are at it again, this time providing you with a look at Patina, a newly opened artful living, home decor boutique located in Mountain Brook Village, a short drive from The Retreat at Mountain Brook. Opened by one of Birmingham’s favorite decorators, Melanie Pounds, Patina is an exclusive Verellen Boutique. Verellen conceives, designs and creates beautiful modern home furnishings with an old world attention to detail. Style Blueprint states, Melanie’s decorator style is a perfect match for this line with its emphasis on balancing modern and traditional in seamless harmony. Mashups like Belgian linen and leather are unexpected, yet appealingly compatible. Melanie says, “The line (Verellen) is rich in Belgian design, along with custom finishes, fabrics and custom details. We have the first collaboration of iPad and iPhone cases, bracelets, lamps, tables, beds, bedding and upholstery.” So, if you’ve just moved into your beautiful luxury apartment at The Retreat at Mountain Brook, you’ll want to visit Patina. The store is chocked-full of pillows, lamps and throws, and according to our Idea Specialist, the artwork available at Patina is from Belgian artists and locals, and is reasonably priced. Patina also carries a line of tote bags, dog leashes, place mats, candles and more. For more about Patina visit: www.shoppatina.com| 205.802.9805 | shop@shoppatina.com 2822 Petticoat Lane, Birmingham, Ala. 35223
Top 5 Things to Do in Birmingham This Month
You guys! How is it August already? Children and adults alike have started another school journey and the responsibilities lists are in full play. Summer seems to grace us with its presence, and then, like the fireflies we long to capture…It’s gone. But no worries! We know you’re busy and as always, The Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists are here to assist with a list of the Top 5 goings on nearby, in our local community. #1. Birmingham Restaurant Week Are you a connoisseur of all things food and fun? Well, hello, darlings! It’s Birmingham Restaurant Week! The Food Fun begins on August 10th and continues thru the 19th. Here is a bit of history about Birmingham Restaurant Week and a link to point your palate in the right direction. Food, Fun and Fullness for all! WHAT IS BIRMINGHAM RESTAURANT WEEK? Birmingham Restaurant Week celebrates the city’s burgeoning culinary reputation as we connect our community through local food. From fine dining to down-home cookin’, food lovers with a taste for adventure can enjoy special lunch or dinner prix-fixe menus ranging from $10, $15, $20, $30 or $40 per person – making it easy and affordable for everyone to enjoy a taste of Birmingham’s diverse dishes. Summer Restaurant Week is a 10-day culinary affair during August which features more than 70 restaurants and a number of special events designed to lead food lovers on a journey from farm to table as they gain a deeper understanding of how food connects Birmingham. For more information follow this link: http://bhamrestaurantweek.com/about.php #2. Magic City Brewfest With the dog days of summer upon us, we know that signals a return of an anticipated event — Magic City Brewfest. For all of our music loving, social butterflies the magic is happening Friday, August 10, from 7 – 11 pm and Saturday, August 11, from 5 – 9 pm, at Avondale Park, 4101 5th Ave. S., Birmingham, AL 35222. A short drive from The Retreat at Mountain Brook, this event is approximately 5 miles away from our luxury apartment community, nestled against the City of Mountain Brook. Listed below are a few of the fun details from the organizers. Pretzel Necklaces: Make your own and wear it or buy one at the event. They are great for cleansing your palate between different styles of beverages. Plain or low salt pretzels are best. Remember to hydrate too! Speaking of Hydration: We will be out in the August sun, drinking beers, meads, and ciders all of which will dehydrate you. There will be free water on hand, so make sure you grab one. There is always a Blue Shirt volunteer walking around offering them about mid-way through the event. TAKE ONE! Drinking Vessel: The only glass that MCBF volunteers are authorized to pour a 2 oz. sample into is the 2018 commemorative sample glass. NOTHING ELSE. No beverages may enter or leave from our location in Avondale Park. Thank a Blue Shirt: Magic City Brewfest is organized by an all-volunteer crew of Blue Shirts from the Birmingham Chapter of Free the Hops. You will see them around the event making sure things are taken care of for your enjoyment. When you see one of these fearless volunteers, be sure to thank them for the hard work that goes in year round for planning and executing this great event annually. You can learn more about this fun event here: https://magiccitybrewfest.com #3. Jemison Park For nature lovers — big things are happening at this nearby, local slice of paradise…something long-awaited in Mountain Brook, Alabama; accessibility to a new pedestrian bridge located at 2615 Mountain Brook Pkwy, a mere 5 miles away from The Retreat at Mountain Brook. The Shades Creek pedestrian bridge will be a replica of the one built in 2017 across Watkins Brook in the section of Jemison Park Nature Trail that runs along Cahaba Road.” Find out more here: http://www.friendsofjemisonpark.org #4. Gabby Furniture We absolutely LOVE this line of furniture and décor — and we love Gabby’s culture and commitment to community. Not only is Gabby Furniture a firm believer in giving back, as a successful home furnishings company, Gabby is proud of its ability to give back and provide support to charitable organizations whose work we hold in high regard. Most recently, Gabby extended its charitable efforts with a new charitable partner, Lifeline Adoption Services. To learn more about this incredible organization, visit their website at www.lifelinechild.org. Gabby partnered with Habitat for Humanity in 2012 to help those in need make their dream of owning their own home a reality. Gabby also regularly donates to the American Cancer Society’s Smith Mountain Lake Discovery Shop, which aids their efforts in fighting cancer and searching for a cure.” Additionally, they have also made a big leap and installed one of the largest commercial solar panel systems in the State of Alabama. The Pelham-based manufacturer and parent company of furniture lines Summer Classics and Gabby, Gabby White, LLC, reports it is now the largest privately held company in Alabama to run on solar energy. Gabby transitional, eclectic and antique furniture can be found a fine retailers, or in their digital catalog, by simply clicking: https://gabbyhome.com/about-us/ #5. Local Harvest Who doesn’t love fresh fruits and vegetables? We wanted to tell you about Hueytown Harvest, located at Hueytown Stadium Park 2066 High School Rd, Bessemer, AL 35023, a Farmer’s Market that takes place 1st, 3rd and 5th Saturdays thru October. Its 21 miles away from The Retreat at Mountain Brook toward Tuscaloosa, but ideal for Saturday day-tripping especially since it offers local art and music, a children’s tent and is four-legged-friend-friendly! Check them out: http://www.hueytownchamber.com/event-details/hueytown-harvest-5/
Three’s a Charm at the Retreat at Mountain Brook
They say 3’s a charm, and in the case of our “charming” 3 bedroom luxury apartments and townhomes at the Retreat at Mountain Brook, we couldn’t agree more! With our prime location bordering the City of Mountain Brook, near Avondale and close to downtown, The Retreat at Mountain Brook offers plenty of apartment-seekers most requested amenities; chef-inspired kitchens, stainless appliances, a fireplace or outdoor sanctuary, and spacious living areas. But at the top of everyone’s list is storage or closet space — and the Retreat excels in that arena. The square footage at a Retreat at Mountain Brook luxury apartment homes is legendary, and closet space, gasp-worthy. As a matter of fact, the largest available closet-combos are in the master suite of the 3-bedroom located in our Greenbriar Village; measuring in at 10 ft. x 3 in. and 6 ft. x 2 in. and is large enough to be used as a small office or a child’s playroom. Our 3 bedroom apartments and townhomes, ideal for a family or roommates, have closets with space to spare — for all you closet enthusiasts, how about one big enough to hold a dresser, shoe racks, shelves for folded items and just about anything else you can imagine to fill this generous area. We asked our Idea Specialists at The Retreat at Mountain Brook to give us a few creative solutions to start you thinking about your next closet, so here are 5 clever ways to make the most of your new space.
Summer Must-Haves Just in Time for the 4th of July
Summer has arrived and the pools and grills at the Retreat at Mountain Brook luxury apartment community in Birmingham are ready for you! Our idea specialists have curated a list of the hottest items this summer — all available for purchase just a short drive from The Retreat. This must-have list is compiled with pool, party and outdoor accessories for adults and children that we hope will heighten your next outdoor experience! For The Poolside: For the sunny days by the pool, this spunky float will be an eye-catcher. The FUNBOY exclusive print adds a classy twist to any pool goer. Don’t miss out on this unique pool float from Urban Outfitters at The Summit for $34.00. Catch all the eyes at the party and spark up conversations with your friends and neighbors thanks to this floral swan. For The Ice Cold Group: No one likes a warm beverage. So why suffer? The Yeti Rambler Colster is taking keeping a drink cold to the next level. Any 12 oz. can drink can go in the stainless steel, sweat-proof koozie. The Colster can be found at Orvis at The Summit for $24.99 and will be found essential in any environment where the heat is a variable. For The Busy Child: Just off Hwy 280 in Mountain Brook’s Cahaba Village, you’ll find Mountain High Outfitters with an array of summer products for the entire family. With the heat and sun comes sunburns when one isn’t careful. Our little ones may want to spend their day in the sun but are tough to keep doused in sunscreen. As a precaution parents could consider back up coverage, such as The North Face “Youth Party in the Back Hat.” This adorable hat is only $22 at Mountain High Outfitters, and it allows shade for the children’s neck and face that can be prone to sunburn. Perhaps consider one for yourself as well. Remember to always use sunblock to prevent sunburns and sun poisoning. For The Girly Girl: During the warmer months, the kids tend to take to the water. When it comes to being a girl you always need to glam up your pool accessories. The Missy the Mermaid Kickboard does just that. The kickboard is made with lightweight foam and even has a dive toy for your fish out of water. The board also provides what could be used as a carrying case in case your little ones are prone to misplace things such as their goggles. Right now, the kickboard can be found at Belk for $19.95. For The Outdoorsy: The Wind Pouch GO Inflatable Hammock is designed for all terrains. Whether you choose to spend your summer lounging by the Retreat at Mountain Brook pool, soaking up the sun on the beach or resting in the tree shade on a rustic camping getaway to Oak Mountain State Park to enjoy hiking, biking and nature. This hammock can be found at Alabama Outdoors in Trussville for $42.50. For The Grill Guru: Kinnucan’s Specialty Outfitter in Mountain Brook offers a meat thermometer for the manly men who have everything. The Q-Tech Bluetooth Meat Thermometer is $39.99. It can be paired to your smartphone in order for you to receive alerts for when the meat has reached the desired temperature. The thermometer conveniently attaches to the grill and the probe provides a long cable to reach different parts of the grill without complication. If there is ever a concern about cooking the meat on the grill perfectly this tool could come in handy, especially when guests are over. For The Event Expert: In preparation for any summer party, every hostess or party goer needs a unique dip bowl that will give your guests a giggle. The Pig Out Dip Bowl is available at Swoozie’s ¬at The Summit for $19.95. This unique shop also offers personalized gifts and party necessities for all your summer celebrations. These affordable and long-lasting items will spice up your summer fun! Enjoy the weather and summer festivities. Don’t forget our pool, garden, grills and tennis courts are perfect places to lounge around. Tag us on social media using #RetreatProud at your next outdoor venture.
