Picnics

Photograph by Caroline Tran 

One of my favorite summer dates is a picnic, preferably in a quiet park or near the lake.  Sitting on a picnic blanket enjoying nature and some one-on-one time with my sweetie is the perfect way to spend a warm summer afternoon.  When the hunger pains strike make sure you have your favorite picnic snacks on-hand.  For me, this means a bit of cheese, fresh strawberries and cold-cut sandwiches.

Shop picnic baskets.

Boston Store Partners with Summerfest, Tap Milwaukee to bring you Land the Big Gig

The Top Three Bands are Set to Perform at Summerfest 2012 with host Danny Gokey.   

Over 200,000 votes were cast and the Top Three Finalists will perform at the World’s Largest Music Festival, Summerfest 2012, to win their share of $45,000 in cash and prizes. Hosting the competition is Milwaukee’s favorite American Idol and recording artist, Danny Gokey.   

Our MAMBO brand teamed up with Summerfest and Tap Milwaukee, to search for the next great musical talent.  More than 100 aspiring musicians and acts from across the nation submitted their video auditions online at www.LandTheBigGig.com. Music fans from around the world have selected three finalists by popular vote.  Those bands will perform at Summerfest on Wednesday, July 4, on the Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard stage to win their share of $45,000 in cash and prizes.  

The Top Three Finalists who will compete in the final Land the Big Gig® competition are the bands Flavia & The Red, 1703 and Jamie Lono.  Flavia & The Red are working on their debut album ‘The Girl Who Left Town’ (2012 release) and have made a splash amongst the Los Angeles crowd, performing in well-loved venues such as The House of Blues, The Key Club and The Mint. The band consists of Caroline Cirone on base, Chris Pucher on guitar, Isaac Watts on drums and Rich Brown on keys. On stage, Flavia & The Red are both energetic and soulful, and each band member is given the opportunity to showcase their talents with powerful solos.

1703, an acoustic brother sister duo consisting of Rachel and Brandon Dawley living in St. Paul, MN, originally from Burlington, WI.  A strong passion for music and their sibling connection  has helped them create a dedicated following throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Jamie Lono has many vocal inspirations such as Ray LaMontagne, Marc Broussard, Jack Johnson, Brett Dennen, Allen Stone and more of the like in the blues and soul genre. After appearing on NBC's second season of The Voice, Jamie has returned to his home, Chicago, Illinois, to prepare for the release of his first full-length album due to be out in late summer 2012.

Public voting for the Land the Big Gig Contest began on Wednesday, April 25 and concluded on June 3.  In all, more than 200,000 votes were cast.  Rebecca Dunham of Muskegon, Michigan was the lucky voter that has won a brand new 2012 Hyundai Veloster® valued at more than $17,000 from Boucher Automotive with a trip for two to Milwaukee’s Summerfest.

Danny Gokey, Milwaukee’s own American Idol finalist and recording artist, will host the event on July 4.  “Summerfest is one of the great things about summertime in Milwaukee.  I’m looking forward to celebrating such talented musicians at one of my favorite music festivals” said Gokey. “It’s a special honor to be back supporting music in the town I grew up in.”

A panel of celebrity judges will determine the grand prize winner, who will be awarded the top prize of $25,000, at the conclusion of the performance on July 4.  Each band will perform a 30-minute set beginning at 4 pm on July 4 on the Briggs and Stratton Big Backyard Stage.  The judges for the competition are 94.5 “The Lake” morning radio personality, Gretchen Bartlett, celebrated local DJ and music blogger, D.J. Bizzon and Summerfest Vice President of Entertainment, Bob Babisch.  Danny Gokey will also act as a judge in addition to his hosting duties. 

MICHAEL Michael Kors

Whether your aesthetic is bold and modern or delicate and feminine, our collection of jewelry and watches from MICHAEL Michael Kors will have your attention. We’ve offered a great selection of Kors watches for both men and women for a while now, but the jewelry is brand new to our assortment, so I encourage you to take a sneak peek. I promise you’ll fall in love with a piece or three, whether you’re looking for something for a special occasion or a piece for every day.

Light it up!

Lighting is a great way to change up a room or create a feeling of warmth!  From ceiling & floor lamps to table & desk lamps we have a huge selection to choose from.  Take some time to browse our assortment and picture one of them in your personal space.

Deal of the Day: Calvin Klein Performance Apparel

Stay active this summer in Calvin Klein Performance apparel.  Perfect for the women on the go and better yet, get it at a fabulous price! This week we are offering select Calvin Klein Performance styles at 65% off the ticket price!  A great way to start summer with our deal of the day.

Summer Beauty Necessities (a free gift for you!)

image found via

Now that we're halfway through summer, are you a bronze beauty with fabulous skin and glossy hair?  If you have yet to reach your summer potential, I have just the kit for you.  For a limited time, receive a 12-piece sampler FREE with your $75 beauty purchase (over a $70 value)!  It's got everything you need for tan legs, hydrated skin, shiny hair and sun protection.  See you at the beach! 

Sampler Includes:
Lancôme Flash Bronzer Tinted Self-Tanning Leg Gel - 4.2-oz.
Lancôme Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate - 0.14-oz.
Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover - 1.7-oz.
Esteé Lauder Sumpuous Blold Volume Lifting Mascara - 0.1-oz.
Clinique Super City Block Oil-Free Daily Face Protector SPF 40 - 0.5-oz.
Clarins UV Plus HP SPF 40 Medium Tint Daily Shield - 0.1-oz.
StriVectin-SD Eye Concentrate for Wrinkles - 3.03-oz.
StriVectin-SD Intensive Concentrate For Stretch Marks & Wrinkles - 0.1-oz.
Fekkai Advanced Brilliant Glossing Shampoo - 0.3-oz.
Fekkai Advanced Brilliant Glossing Conditioner - 0.3-oz.
H20+™ Spa Sea Salt Hydrating Body Butter

Available while supplies last.  Limit one per customer.  Sample substitutions may occur.

All The Glitters

image found via Elizabeth Anne Designs

I love the look of a sparkling shoe peeking out from underneath a wedding gown.  It is reminiscent of a modern-day Cinderella.  

Bonus:  A sparkling pair of heels in gold or silver would be a great addition to your closet for post-wedding day special occasions or for those days your outfit needs a bit of extra bling.

Little White Dresses

Oh, how I love a little black dress. I have two that take me to virtually any event, looking polished and chic in a matter of minutes. For summer, though, I’m trying to go a little lighter, a little brighter, and lo and behold, there’s an easy answer: The little WHITE dress! When your shoulders are sun-kissed and you can’t bear the thought of capris or shorts, a flirty little white dress is an easy answer. Dress it up for an evening date with your sweetie, or grab your flip-flops and sunnies for a trip to the park. Just as versatile as the LBD, but lots more fun, the little white dress takes you through the summer in style. Shop our selection now!

Brighten Your Backyard

Just as with apparel, this year is all about adding pops of color everywhere – including in your backyard! Outdoor furniture doesn’t have to be the same old colors of years past. Find some colorful chairs or an umbrella to spice up your outdoor space. Simply replacing a chair cushion or adding a bright and cheery outdoor pillow is enough to display your fun side. Use color to express yourself and show your neighbors how fun you really are!

Deal of the Day: Steak Knives!

It's grilling season and we have the perfect deal for you!  Curtis Lloyd steak knife set, a web exclusive item and a great deal at 34.97, originally $120.   These gorgeous steak knives from Outset feature a high-quality, forged stainless steel construction capped with beautiful walnut-wood handles and classic rivets.  What could be better to cut through your favorite grilled foods?

I love rain in the summertime.  I'll love it even more with this whimsical umbrella from Marc Jacobs.  It's FREE for a limited time with your Marc Jacobs 1.7-oz. or larger fragrance purchase.

Ryan Kwanten Appearance at Brookfield Square!

Ryan Kwanten, Mambassador, to visit Brookfield Square June 30th!

What do HBO’s True Blood and our exclusive MAMBO brand have in common? Ryan Kwanten! 

As our Mambassador, Ryan will make an appearance at the Brookfield Square Boston Store location from noon to 1:30PM, Saturday, June 30th. He’ll be available to sign autographs and take photos with fans.

Do you have a question for Ryan? You can jot in down on an index card provided by store associates at the event and Ryan will answer it during a live Q&A with our host DJ!

In addition to these great events with Ryan Kwanten, there will also be opportunities to win prizes and take advantage of exclusive one-day savings offers.

Register To Win!
Stop by our Register to Win station and be entered to receive 4 exclusive deck party tickets to the Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard Stage at Summerfest on the 4th of July. This exclusive package also includes food, drink and entertainment!

Foursquare giveaways
The first 100 customers at the Brookfield Square event who check in via foursquare from noon-1:30PM will receive a free 4th of July Summerfest ticket

Free gift with purchase
All customers who purchase any 2 MAMBO items during the event will receive a pair of Summerfest tickets. (Limit 2 tickets per customer)

While you’re there, don’t forget to check out the exclusive Boston Store Summerfest 2012 t-shirts. They’re hot and going fast!

Boston Store Brookfield Square   
15875 West Bluemound Road
Brookfield, WI 53005
(262) 782-6888

Happy Feet

image credits:  purple shoes // blue shoes // green shoes

Who says that your wedding day shoes have to match your dress?  Add an unexpected pop of color with jewel-toned shoes.  Not only will your brightly colored kicks make for a lovely photo opportunity, they also look unexpectedly fresh peeking out from under your gown.

F.Y.EYE

They say there’s a “right” pair of sunglasses for every face. I know what you’re thinking: “If only it were that easy.” You know, it is. Our site offers a Sunglasses Finder to give you a better idea of which shapes suit you best. If you’re not sure what shape face you have, start by looking in the mirror and drawing an outline of your face with a bar of soap. Step away and see what shape you’re left with. Then, hook up with our Finder and see which types of sunglasses flatter you. Square, oversized, aviator, rimless... We’ll offer suggestions and you can confidently shop our selection from there. See? It couldn’t be easier!

Slumber Party

Summertime… The days are long, the weather is beautiful and the kids are home from school. It’s the perfect time to host a slumber party for your kids! These few ideas can make their party spectacular. 

 

Get their rooms ready with a fantastic comforter or quilt set. We have plenty of options for toddlers or teens. Made from different fabrics in loads of unique patterns, the bedding you choose will last season after season.

And don’t forget their friends! We’ve got sleeping bags in kid-friendly colors and designs. Grab one before your child’s first sleepover invite, or just keep one on hand for their friends to borrow.

And when it comes to the big day, make sure your child carries all the slumber-party necessities in a stylish backpack. Toss in a super comfy, cozy throw and send them off with one of our exclusive (and adorable!) LivingQuarters Animal Pals tucked under their arm.

Keurig is coming town… Chi-Town!

The new Keurig® Vue™ is changing the way America brews, one cup of coffee at a time. The newest member of the Keurig family, the Vue, helps you brew stronger, bigger and hotter! This revolutionary brewer works together with the new Vue packs to deliver the ultimate brewing experience.

Unsure if this is the new brewer for you? You’re in luck, because the Keurig Vue City Tour is underway and coming to a Carson’s store near you! You won’t want to miss this one-day event with samples, giveaways and an afternoon of fun!

Keurig Vue City Tour events include:

• Onsite beverage samples of coffee, tea, hot cocoa, iced drinks and café beverages
• Free gifts with the purchase of any new Keurig Vue brewer
• Free Keurig Vue goodies
• A fun, interactive photo booth
• And more!

Stop by one of these two Carson’s Chicago stores and get ready to brew stronger, bigger and hotter!

Friday, June 15th

Carson’s Orland Square, 10AM-4PM

Carson’s Orland Square  

4 Orland Square

Orland Park, IL. 60462

(708) 349-1900

Saturday, June 16th

Carson’s Yorktown, 10AM-4PM

Carson’s Yorktown

Yorktown Mall

230 Yorktown Center

Lombard, IL. 60148

(630) 620-2600

Learn more about the Keurig Vue City Tour.

Can’t wait to get your hand on the new Keurig Vue? Pick one up today at Carsons.com! 

Friends & Family!

It's time to enjoy our Friends and Family discount.  Save 25% on your favorite apparel brands, shoes, and accessories; save 10% on cosmetics, electronics and toys. But time’s running out – tomorrow’s the last day.  

New from Lancôme: Rénergie Eclat Multi-Lift

New!  Lancôme Rénergie Eclat Multi-Lift

This exciting new product from Lancôme lifts and illuminates the skin, while evening skin tone.

Pair with Rénergie Eye Multiple Action Ultimate Eye Care Duo for lifted and more youthful eyes as well!  The skin underneath the eye is the most delicate, so it's the first to show signs of aging.

Psst….Receive a deluxe gift free with a Lancôme purchase of $35 or more!

Everyday Elegance Challenge

All-too-often, brides regret not registering for fine china - and we have the surveys to prove it!  So we want to sweeten the deal for you!  Not only is fine china durable, beautiful and far more flexible than most brides realize, but now you can be rewarded for registering and receiving fine china!  Take our Everyday Elegance Challenge and you could earn $10 to spend in our stores.  Create a new registry and add at least 10 fine china place-settings to your registry.  Download, fill-out and mail in a simple rebate form, and we will reward you with a $10 coupon good towards a purchase of $10 or more to use in our stores!  Already registered with us?  You too can take advantage of this special offer.

Click here for complete details and to learn more.

Oh Baby!

Every woman wants to look her best throughout her pregnancy. From those queasy first months, to the fabulous second trimester and on through the can-I-get-any-bigger last few weeks. We’re here to help, with an amazing selection of flattering styles from Three Seasons Maternity. Many tops feature an adjustable tie at the back to take you through your pregnancy comfortably. And maternity pants are becoming more and more hip and comfortable, too, all the time. When I was expecting, I tried to shop sensibly by choosing a few pairs of versatile, comfortable pants, and then multiplying my options with different tops and accessories. You see, simply buying extra-large sizes of your old favorites won’t cut it. Invest in some key quality maternity pieces so that you look, and FEEL, fabulous from now ‘til your baby arrives.

Lighten Up for Summer

As the summer starts to heat up, it's the perfect opportunity to freshen up your bedroom with fun summer patterns and cool, lightweight options.  

Here are our top 5 ways to get fresh and cool:

1.  Bedding Collections and Sets – Relax with fun summer prints and cool, earth tones
2.  Light Window Treatments - Replacing existing window treatments with lighter, airier fabrics will lighten up any room, bedroom included
3.  Lightweight and Cool Sheets - Sleep stress-free
4.  Iso Cool Memory Foam Pillows, Toppers, and mattress pads – All the comfort of memory foam without the heat
5.  Too hot for your comforter?  Try a Quilt! – Add a little heat on cool summer nights, without full-on winter warmth

Summer Sale

Our annual Summer Sale ends tomorrow, so hurry and shop for some great savings.  There are two ways to save: Use our shopping pass for additional savings on already-reduced merchandise or shop our bonus buys! 

 Sorry, Bonus Buys priced so low, additional discounts do not apply. 

Carson’s Riverside Plaza Grand Re-Opening Celebration – June 18th – June 22nd

 

Hey, CHICAGO!  WE’RE BACK…and better than ever! The new Carson’s Riverside Plaza is re-opening Monday, June 18th. After closing for remodeling in January 2012, the Riverside Plaza will host its grand re-opening celebration Monday, June 18th through Friday, June 22nd.

The completely remodeled 11,000 square foot store will open with new and improved features, including state of the art touch screen kiosks, enhanced lighting, elevated ceilings and new restrooms.  An updated merchandise assortment includes an improved selection of ladies accessories, costume jewelry and handbags, plus, a brand new shoe department. You’ll love our assortments of top brand cosmetics and fragrances for both men and women! 

The grand re-opening celebration week will kick off Monday, June 18th with various events and fabulous offers throughout the week. The grand re-opening events will include:

• Special gifts and events throughout the cosmetics department:
• Barefoot and Bronze Summer in Clinique Event: Let our team of experts show you how to dial up your glow, from sun-kissed to suntanned. Receive a deluxe sample with your Clinique consultation.
• Estee Lauder free 7-piece endless summer gift with any Estee Lauder skincare or foundation purchase of $35 or more
•           Free Lancôme 6-pc. gift of your choice with any Lancôme purchase of $35 or more. Up to a $114 value. Available while supplies last.
   
  
• Register to win a $500 shopping spree!
• Foursquare check-in special offer (Get $10 off your purchase of $10 or more!)

Plus, keep an eye out for our Street Team, who will have a special $10 off and a free tote bag for the first 1,000 customers.

We look forward to seeing you at the new Carson’s Riverside Plaza – right across the street from Union Station! 

Can't wait to shop?  Don't forget to shop online today for the best summer looks!




Carson’s Riverside plaza is located at 120 South Riverside Plaza, Chicago, IL. 60606.
Store Hours:
Monday – Friday: 7:30AM – 6PM
Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed

Super Serums from Lancôme!

These skin care must-haves are proven winners.  Which serum are you?

Are you looking to correct wrinkles, pores and evenness?

Shop Visionnaire.

Are you looking for more radiant and youthful skin?

Shop Génifique.

Psst...Receive a deluxe gift free with your $35 Lancome purchase, starting 6/7!!!

Lillian Rose

Lillian Rose is a nationally recognized manufacturer of wedding & baby accessories. The name Lillian Rose was developed for our Wedding Accessory Company based on the Victorian tradition of the "Language of Flowers," where each flower has a special meaning. The Lily is a symbol of the pure and lovely, the rose is the flower of love. Lillian Rose - a pure and lovely expression of love.   

Shop now.