"Sure you can stay here! I mean you're already here...with your bag packed, so...sure..."

Hey Sal,

Around the holidays I have a lot of friends that come back “home” to the burbs, but end up spending much of their time going out in the city, bar hopping, seeing old friends/etc. The problem is, they use my place to crash. Leaving a mess in their wake, they eat what little food I have, and all around put a cramp in my style since I end up feeling as if I have to entertain them. What can I do to remedy this?
- Lauren, Gold Coast

Lauren,

‘I have a second bedroom because I love to have overnights guests.’ If you ever said that, chances are you’ve long since stopped. The trail of late-night Cheeto crumbs, mascara stains on your hand towels, and new ‘plus one’ status are enough to make you want to push your holiday guests into Michigan Avenue traffic. Since when did your home become ground zero for your old friends’ holiday party circuit?

When they got to your place it looked like this.

Let’s stop and think about what is really irritating you. The first thing is that these guests are uninvited and unexpected. So, invite them and expect them. Try planning a ‘night in the city’ and get yourself - and your apartment - ready to entertain. Invite your friends down for dinner and bar hopping, have provisions out for them (towels, food, bedding, etc.) and have a plan for the next day. Make it something you want to do so you don’t feel so out of control. And then, send them on their way. Not only have you done your due diligence as a hostess, but you were ready for it and removed stress from the situation.

Next thing - split the work load. If you have your friends over and take them out during the day, ensure that you pass them off to another friend for the evening. There is no reason you should be the lone holiday work horse in the not-so-OK Corall. Good lines to make this happen are, “I already have plans that night but would love to meet you for brunch the next day,” or “If you’re up for an early night we could grab dinner and then you’re welcome to stay the night.” Take just a piece of their time downtown.

When they left it looked like this.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to flat out say no. If someone wants to crash last minute - unless it’s an emergency (i.e. I came down to stay with a friend and we got in a huge fight and now I’ve missed the last train back to the burbs and am stranded [sob, sob, sob]) - say no. You’ve got a lot going on and you wish you could, but you’re ‘having your boyfriend over for a speeeeecial evening.’ Not comfortable saying something that might stretch the truth - then lay out the options. Yes they’re welcome to stay, but you’re going to bed early and have plans all the next day. The majority of people will pick up on you’re GO SOMEWHERE ELSE vibe.

Happy Holiday Hosting!

(This advice column is brought to you by the ever graceful, polished and in-the-know, Sally Jackson. Sally is happy to offer her tips and guidance on everything from relationships to fashion to saving money. If you have a question for Sally, go ahead and send your question to Info@PoorLittleRichGirls.com with subject “Hey Sal”)

Jojo Yang, aka “JOBOT”, is a New York native DJ, composer, and producer. Also known as the female third of the DJ trio Yello Fever (with DJ Skyler and Kid Color), JOBOT has gained recognition in Chicago for her unique blend of style and talent. Yello Fever performed at Lollapalooza 2009, and JOBOT continues to play gigs at spots like Berlin as well as throws a party called “Gimix” with Kid Color monthly. Jojo’s interests lie beyond the turntables as she pursues various freelance projects including a score for Lemon Drop Kiss by Freestyle collective, where she worked under art direction of Brian Drucker, the 3D technical director on Shrek. Currently, she is working on a number of musical endeavors of different genres with various Chicago artists. JOBOT joins PLRG and every month will let readers know what’s playing in her ear and an inside look at a local music group or DJ.

Being a local indie dance DJ, I thought it most fitting to kick off my monthly music write-up with an interview of an artist from a genre that is near and dear to my heart.  In this past year, if you’ve gone out to any bars or clubs where you could potentially shake your booty to some catchy dance tunes (and let’s hope you have) then chances are you’ve enjoyed the sounds of DiscoTech.  DiscoTech consists of three talented gentlemen- Danny Daze, Gigamesh, and Joe Maz. That sweet remix of Rod Stewart’s “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy”? DiscoTech. That irresistible remix of T.I.’s “Whatever You Like”? DiscoTech.

Click here listen to and download these tracks: Whatever You Like Discotech, Everything in its Right Place

I had the privilege of picking the brain of one of the Discotech boys - the incredibly talented and musically gifted Matthew Masurka, aka Gigamesh. Masurka himself has cranked out a few of his own amazing remixes to show the world what the Gigamesh spin on some oh-so-familiar songs is all about.

How did you and the other Discotech boys get started?

Danny and Joe have both been DJing for about a decade and they connected through myspace a couple years ago. After trading remixes back & forth they decided to start a group. I was fresh out of music school and joined when I heard what they were doing. Being that I have more of a music background I end up doing most of the studio work.
What artists do you find inspirational and influential?

I might end up with a list a few pages long so I’ll just list two from completely different areas of music: Joanna Newsom and Mr. Oizo.
Do you have any crazy fan stories? Any bras land on your turntables during one of your DJ sets?

Hmm…not YET. I welcome any/all female undergarments thrown my way.
If you could collaborate with one artist to work on a track, who would it be?

If he was still alive, Michael Jackson (of course).
What is your opinion of the music that’s emerging from the Midwest?

I should probably only speak of Minnesota bands, which are plentiful and for the most part very good. I’ve remixed songs by a couple of my favorites, Lookbook and Estate. Other local acts I’m into are Zoo Animal, Daughters of the Sun, Lucy Michellle and the Velvet Lapelles, Subdivider and The Sextons.

What’s currently playing on your ipod?

Random shuffle all the way! But an album I just listened to and really liked is Brian Eno & David Byrne - My Life in the Bush of Ghosts.

I am fascinated by the way men and women relate, and if that doesn’t make me an expert, it may make me a kind of student teacher. Hopefully this column will help share a little of what I’ve learned, and maybe shed some light on the way men think, from one man’s perspective. - JM

So…I met a guy three and a half months ago that lives in San Francisco. We hit it off and got along swimmingly! We stayed in touch, from time to time, mostly via text. When we’d text, it would be fun and flirty… but all very light-hearted. I saw him a second time about a month ago. We hung out and it felt like we had known each other for a while. It was great! Since then, however, I’ve only heard from him ONCE - via text - over the course of that entire month. It was fully unprompted: he texted me. (Side note: I took his number out of my phone so as to avoid any unnecessary drunk dialing/texting.) While I wanted to prove a point and not respond at all, the majority of my girlfriends urged me to text back. So, I waited over a day to respond and ended up writing something cute but also very neutral. And he hasn’t responded! Why would a guy text me, out of the blue, and then not respond?

-Troubled Texter

Let’s clarify quickly - “it was great” means “we hooked up”. And that is great, but the important detail is this guy lives in San Francisco and you don’t. I’m not saying it’s impossible that a guy in a similar situation would want more in terms of a relationship, but in this given situation I don’t think he does. My guess would be it’s exciting for him to get to know you, and he enjoys the idea of having a random hookup every now and again when you or he visit each other’s city. You said it yourself; it’s been mostly “fun and flirty.” If that’s something you think you can enjoy then keep going. But if you’re looking for the time, attention and text response time of a boyfriend, I think you need to look elsewhere.

Am I portraying myself in a bad light if a guy asks me to dinner and I tell him I’d prefer drinks? It isn’t that I don’t want to spend time with the guy - but dinners can be long and slow, and sometimes (or most of the time!) I’d rather just get tipsy at a nice bar! Do you think if I want a guy to take me seriously I’d better put on a happy face and sit through dinner with him?

-Wine me but don’t dine me

If that’s honestly what you prefer, then any guy put off by that probably wasn’t for you in the first place. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with keeping your initial time commitment brief until you get to know a guy. Why not say something like, “I don’t have time for a full dinner, but I’d love to grab a drink.” If it’s going terribly you can always say you have to go do whatever it is you said you had to do. If it’s going well I’m sure you’ll figure it out from there.

What is the key to a successful marriage?

-Kristin, 26

Separate bathrooms.

This is the third official installment of Jerrod Melman’s column, “Advice from a Jerrk.” If you have relationship or guy-related questions for Jerrod, just send an email to AskJerrod@PoorlittleRichGirls.com. When he’s not working on his advice column, Jerrod is a managing partner of Hub 51, River North’s hottest dining, nightlife and social establishment created by him and his brother, R.J.

Holiday Fun with Awkward Rick - Watch more Funny Videos

Believe it or not, New Year’s Eve is just 2 weeks away. Whether you are the type who likes to party like a rockstar or kick it low-key, every PLRG needs options, right? In the past, we’ve stayed away from promoting any NYE events, as we feel that there is an overwhelming amount of party packages and promotions everywhere you look. This party, however, we just could not pass up. If 2010 has you in the mood to do it big, this might be the choice for you. The price at first read seems comparable to most other NYE parties around town, until you read more. This one includes a pre and post party plus top shelf liquor. What really intrigued us? ChicagoNYE.com has put on this event for 7 years now, and for the last two years they have received the top ratings by attendees for “Bar Service”. Translation? You won’t have to wait 15 minutes or more for a drink! Hallelujah! There’s nothing worse than paying for an open bar and not being able to even drink your money’s worth. Happy New Year!

Here’s the skinny:

PoorLittleRichGirls.com, CHICAGONYE.com and 103.5 KISS FM cordially invite you to an exclusive New Year’s Eve Extravaganza!

NYE SOIREE 2010
“On Top of The Lake and Magnificent Mile”
w/ Host Ty Bentli from 103.5 Kiss FM

Thursday, December 31st 2009 @

The Westin Michigan Ave
909 N. Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611

SNAPSHOT OF PARTY PACKAGE
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A Variety of Hors d’oeuvres and delicious food from
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Exquisite Chocolates & Desserts

Elegant Chic in Ballroom
Live Video Mixing & Confetti Storm
Beautiful Decorations
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+ VIP Amenities ~ Behind The Velvet Rope Service
Penthouse Ballroom
Private Bartenders
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Take An Elevator Home
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For Full Listing of Amenities

Visit: CHICAGONYE.com

AND TO TOP IT OFF PACKAGE
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Hosted Cocktail Reception 9:30-11:00pm
Mention “NYE” at the Door
RSVP ON WEBSITE

POST NYE PARTY
IMMEDIATELY AFTER NYE EVENT
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Wristband included to party until 4 in the morning

TICKETS SELLING FAST - EARLY BIRD SPECIAL ENDS SOON

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Sponsor Tables Available / Custom Sponsorship Packages

This month, I’ve found an outfit that would be perfect for any holiday work party. Since you typically want to dress up a bit more than usual for a holiday party, a dress is always a good choice. An emerald green dress ($20, forever21.com) like this one is a great option, as the color is rich and on trend for this holiday season. Lace or patterned tights ($14, urbanoutfitters.com) are a great addition to cover your legs and add some fun! Black booties ($25, forever21.com) are comfortable and the perfect shoe for the winter weather (Always remember to spray weather protectant onto your shoes that you will wear throughout the winter - you can find this spray in your local grocery store).

Add a boyfriend blazer ($40, oldnavy.com) for the perfect mix of warmth and style. In general, adding a blazer or small jacket to any outfit will always make you look more put together, and also covers up some extra skin - a good idea at this type of event.  To finish off the outfit, add some fun jewelry. Here is where you can add the sparkle! A long gold chain necklace ($40, aldoshoes.com) is a way to add some “bling” and stand out. When assembling your colors, I would stay away from the traditional red and green combo and opt for something you could work into your everyday wardrobe.  Just remember, this isn’t your best friend’s party or family dinner, and Bob from finance doesn’t care if you’re wearing the latest dress from the 2010 Marc Jacobs collection.

A quick helpful hint for this year’s Holiday Party: remember to always carry your drink in your left hand so you can easily shake hands (a dry hand) and greet all other guests easily, making a lasting impression. Lastly, all of the items in this outfit can be used with other staples in your wardrobe throughout the rest of the winter and as PLRGs we love that!

Being a PoorLittleRichGirl may not sound glamorous, but it’s better than ending up as the old woman who lives in her shoes (even if they are Louboutin)! The thrill of rocking an outfit that looks like a million bucks but costs closer to $100 feels even better than hailing an empty cab on New Years Eve (or after your company holiday party)! So spread your wings, social butterflies and don’t forget to check back with me in January for my next edition of Event Ensemble.

In the world of dating, two timing is usually viewed as completely and utterly unacceptable. Lucky for us girls, however, the opposite is true in the world of beauty and cosmetics.  Nothing beats the sheer delight of discovering that your favorite beauty product possesses other secret powers that you can call upon in a pinch. And let’s face it, in these economic times, we all have to put in a little extra over time and our beauty products should not be exempt. Here is a list of inexpensive beauty products that can serve more than one purpose, saving you time and much-needed money.

Covergirl Wetslicks Amazemint Lipgloss ($6.50, Walgreens)
Not sure what took so long, but the marriage between a breath freshener and lip gloss is a natural fit that equals perfection-not to mention convenience. The latest evolution in lip products, Covergirl Wetslicks Amazemint, infuses peppermint oil into your favorite lip color leaving your pout alluring and your breath minty fresh. The 2-in-1 product comes in 13 shades and is a definite date night must that should carried with you at all times.

The Original Moroccan Oil ($40, www.moroccanoil.com)
Everyone is raving about the benefits of Moroccan oil and it is completely understandable. The contents in this little bottle do it all: hair restorator, frizz and flyaway tamer, skin moisture, and cuticle softener. A little goes a long way with the lightweight oil, which can also be used pre-color treatment for a more intense color pay off.  It is made from the kernels of argan tree fruit, which is almost exclusively in Morocco, hence the name.

Oral B Vitality Precision Clean Electric Toothbrush ($22.99, CVS/Pharmacy)
Alright, maybe not the most exciting or most obvious pick at first glance (though some would argue fresh breath and clean teeth are the ultimate beauty accessory), but this tool in oral health also doubles as a spa treatment for your face.  When used with your favorite exfoliating cleanser, the soft-bristled toothbrush gently buffs out your skin and encourages skin cell turnover, which in turn reveals bright, beautiful skin. You can also use this with a hydrating lip balm to exfoliate your lips before your favorite lipstick for a smooth application.  Quick caveat: Purchase two separate toothbrush heads, one for your face and one your teeth.

Pur Mineral’s 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup ($24.50, www.purminerals.com)
Dubbed the “The One Minute Mineral Makeup Miracle,” the title alone sells it.  Few ladies would argue with a product that is an all natural mineral foundation, concealer, powder and SPF 15 protection all in one that leaves your complexion flawless. Available in 10 varied shades and rated by dermatologists as the number one mineral makeup formula, this delivers on everything it promises. Think of all the time and space you will save having this in your arsenal.

Maybelline Great Lash Clear Mascara ($4.99, Target)
A kin to the beloved industry favorite Maybelline Great Lash in black, this clear version can be used as a conditioning mascara and an excellent eyebrow shaper.  What is great about this product is you won’t have to worry about the messy smudging, clumping and smearing that can be quite annoying with traditional mascara. Bonus tip: Spray an old wand with hairspray and use on your eyebrows for an added hold that lasts all day or on your hair to tame flyaways.

(Written by Lenora E. Houseworth, a Chicago-area writer and editor and a self-professed beauty addict.)

The newest addition to the West Loop’s famed “Restaurant Row” is this week’s newest addition to the Deals & Discount section - and now, under the spotlight. La Mediterranee Restaurant & Bar brings a welcome sense of relaxation and a sophisticated atmosphere to Randolph Street, amidst so many restaurants that - in our opinion - focus more on the décor than the food. That’s not the case here. The classic French and Italian cuisine at La Mediteranee does not disappoint, and neither does the price point (especially with the amazing offer for PLRG readers). To give you a “taste”, the $10 Coquilles Saint-Jacques appetizer (sautéed jumbo scallops in egg batter and lemon caper butter sauce over Julianne vegetables) melts in your mouth while if you enjoy some spice in your food we recommend the Linguini Fra Diabola (linguini pasta in a spicy diabolo marinara sauce with shrimp) for just $13. Want to try more items? Sunday - Thursday, La Med offers an $18 prix fixe menu that includes a small ceasar salad, your choice of a half pasta order and select entrees.

Bon Appetit!

D&D Offer for PLRG Readers:

Spend $50 at dinner and get $20 off your bill when you mention PLRG (40% discount)! Cannot be combined with any other offers.

La Mediterranee is located at 941 W. Randolph Street, 3 blocks west of Halsted St.

This Saturday, December 12th, the boys over at Harrigan’s Irish Pub are inviting you to dust off your crock-pots and break out your aprons for their 2nd Annual Chili Cookoff! If you’ve ever been to their Wednesday night Trivia-you know these guys don’t mess around.

Last year, the event featured 14 different chili’s made by the tried and true patrons of the Pub. $5 gets you all the chili you can handle throughout the afternoon (2 -5PM) and hooks you up with a ballot so you can vote on your favorite. The Goose Island Brewery will be on-site as well, handing out and discussing samples of some of their lesser-known beers.

Need another reason to check out the Harrigan’s scene this Saturday? If you mention PLRG at the bar, you can score $5 Stoli pint-sized cocktails (Oh, and when we say “pint-sized” we mean it in the standard form of measurement sense, ie: 1 pint = 2 cups = 16 oz), or in other words, “a double,” do the math .. it’s a steal.

Can you stand the heat?

Spots are still available (although space is limited) to enter your own creation and see if you have what it takes to be crowned the 2009 Harrigan Chili Champion. So if you happen to consider yourself a chili connoisseur, call Harrigan’s (the sooner the better) at 773-249-5933 and ask for Reed.

Harrigan’s Irish Pub
2816 N. Halsted
Chicago, IL

(Lindsey Duda)

Back by popular demand, PoorLittleRichGirls.com will be hosting its 2010 Battle of the Boutiques this winter to show Chicago fashionistas that they can still shop boutiques without breaking the bank.

On Friday, February 26th, PLRG is teaming up with Lumen to hold the second annual battle- where five local boutiques, and defending champion LeDress, will each stomp their stilettos in an effort to be voted the most stylish.

Each store will display five looks each, including items of clothing for $100 or less (dresses and outerwear count as 2 items). B-96’s Showbiz Shelly will MC and the audience, along with our panel of celebrity judges will be casting their votes- and enjoying complimentary cocktails and appetizers provided by Ultimat Vodka and Hub51.

We are now taking applications from boutiques interested in participating! Act quickly if you are interested, as the deadline is December 18th. This ultimate gala for local fashion, food and cocktails will provide you with a great platform to expose your business to nearly 300 of Chicago’s fashionistas, in addition to the expected press in Chicago’s top media publications. Entry will include models, event production and a full PR & promotional campaign to include your boutique’s logo and business information. The 2009 BOTB sold out within 1 week and resulted in press in the Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago Tribune, Metromix, Time-Out Chicago and The Red Eye. Media clips from last year can be found here.

To apply or receive more information about participation or general BOTB sponsorship opportunities, email Noelle at Noelle@poorlittlerichgirls.com.