By Liz Stanley

It’s peak fall foliage and the ideal time to pull on your outdoor gear and enjoy the beautiful mountains and colorific leaves that are moments away from our doorsteps—isn’t that the reason we live in Utah, afterall? (Well, it should be.) Here’s a nice-n-easy fall hike for pullin’ on those autumn hiking boots:

Location: Desolation Trail in Mill Creek Canyon

Trail Scoop: Two miles of gentle, family-friendly hiking lead you through gorgeous pine trees and cool rock formations to an overlook of the Salt Lake Valley. Mill Creek is the only canyon that allows canine companions so you can bring the whole family (get the details here). Plan on an hour up and an hour down, at least, with extra time at the top to enjoy the view, have a snack and snap photos.

Off The Map: Look for the “Mill Creek Canyon” sign on Wasatch Boulevard between 3300 and 3900 South. The trailhead is located at South Box Elder Picnic Area on the right-hand side, just past Millcreek Inn. From the parking lot, the trail starts to the west.

Look For: Many varieties of mushrooms and pines. Rub your fingers against pine needles to catch their scent. You’ll be surprised at how many different scents you’ll uncover (citrus was my favorite) and you can make a mental note for Christmas tree preference later this year.

Tips: The trail is sheltered with little sun exposure so it might be chillier than you would expect. Grab an extra jacket, even if it’s warm in the valley. Naturally, bring plenty of water and a snack. If you start your hike in the late afternoon, pack a headlamp or flashlight just in case you lose the race against the sun. And you’ll need $2.25 cash to exit the canyon.

It’s the conundrum every mom finds herself in on Photo Day: What to put the kid(s) in for their big moment? You could spend hours and dollars on the just-right outfit and hairdo and all that hullabaloo … or skip much of the headache and choose Jamie Sampson as your next photographer. This Utah gal’s idea of fun includes scouting out twee locations, props and accessories for upcoming shoots—so her clients don’t have to. You just provide the cute kid. Easy enough.

Happy, fun, and youthful, Jamie’s images are especially cute and bright. Despite their being well-styled and thought-out, the photos tend to come off as natural rather than over-posed. That’s because, as Jamie says, “I like the little things … the joy of jumping on the bed … the amazed smile that comes when they see the huge sucker they get to eat.”

The combination of photographic style and photographic vision is a sweet one. If you’re outside the Beehive State, don’t fret. Jamie frequents San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York for her clients on a regular basis.

By Jessica Goldfond

Right now, designs from the catwalk and styles from the street are showing us that Fall 2008 and Spring 2009 are times for mixing and matching. From feminine, comfy knits to bold-colored hosiery and accessories, why not use this new-found freedom to have some fun and mix the season’s trends? Transform summer clothes to reinvent your autumn wardrobe by layering, while picking up some fall staples (tights, cardigans, tights, thermals … did you notice the tights?) that will carry you through winter.

Keep it Bright: Avoid the fall blues (or traditional browns) and humdrum palettes by adding colors that pop. Get a head start on hot-for-spring tones like bright-but-burnt orange and golden chartreuse.

Social Patterns: When it comes to print and pattern, stay in the same family either by style (floral on floral) or color (red stripes on red floral). To flatter your figure, it’s best to keep large patterns up top.

All to Pieces: This season, don’t be afraid to layer deep-colored tights beneath your high-waisted wool shorts. Revisit an oversize blazer. Balance out the micro length of a knit sweater dress with comfy, thick leggings. Experiment with the length of your cardigan—let it fall well below your waistline. Cinch that skirt with a skinny belt. And don’t forget a pair of ’70s inspired heels for boosting your stovepipes.

Image credits: Spring 2009 runway looks from Style.com, current streetwear looks from Hel-looks.com, Orla Kiely ensembles from Fall 2008 lookbook at OrlaKiely.com.

We know, we know. Everyone wanted to win the Shade giveaway. But there can only be one and that lucky person, plucked at random, is Kati who said, “I’d love this!” We’re glad to hear it, Kati. There’s a Shade gift card coming your way. Just send an e-mail to ali@yourheartout.com.

Remember to shop Shade’s fall line right here. Thanks, Shade!

By Liz Stanley

Some used finds for your viewing pleasure:

Sego a Go: Head south for the Sego Festival in Downtown Provo this Friday and Saturday. Get lost in works by 100 local artists—50 bands, video-projected artworks, and boutique items by crafters. Plus, it’s totally free, and there’s more on the agenda than we can summarize here. Details here.

Shop Hop: Do some feel-good shopping at the Nie Nie Fundraiser and Sale at Provo’s Soel Boutique on Saturday. Expect to see pretties marked down 25 – 75%. While you’re at it, cruise by Kaleidoscope for your chance to win free-and-classic holiday decor. Pencil in the Krista Larson trunk show at the Children’s Hour on Friday and Saturday—samples can be taken home same-day. (Step aside, Rachel Zoe.) Lastly but not leastly, get your yuppy on for less at the J. Crew Outlet in Kimball Junction, new to Utahns this week.

Hot Bods: Secure your tix to (enter vampire voice) Gunther Von Hagen’s “Bodyworlds 3“—the production’s first trip through Utah has made its stop at The Leonardo. Gross Anatomy never looked so good. Info here.

Sweet Spot: It’s not too late to satisfy your sweet tooth. Afterall, sweetness is your weakness. This weekend, get yourself to round two of the Oh Sweet Sadie art, gift and so-much-more boutique in South Jordan. More here.

Shake Your Bonsai: Gain expert instruction on turning your thumbs green when Red Butte Garden hosts its annual Bonzai Show and Fall Bulb and Native Plant Sale tomorrow and Saturday. Spring will thank you. Times here.

If you’re up for a run around, look into the University of Utah’s Homecoming 5K and Kids Run on Saturday. Or if relaxing with a book is more your thing, try your luck at the St. George Book Festival.

By Danny Kourianos

For Her: “My Fair Lady”
For Him: The Full Rodizio

Let’s make a deal: If you expect your significant other to sit through the story of a peasant girl-turned-high-class lady told through song and elaborate costume changes, then do him a favor and start the evening at Trolley Square’s Rodizio Grill. If you haven’t been yet, the Rodiz (as The Dude likes to call it) is the cathedral of all things meat here in the Salt Lake Valley.

For the uninitiated, Rodizio Grill offers a churrascarian-style dining experience. Waiters dressed as Brazilian Gauchos come to your table bearing skewered, succulent, grilled meats that they carve table-side and deliver straight to your plate. Is it gimmicky? Sure. Is it delicious? You bet. Some of the meats we sampled include chicken hearts (calm down—they taste like grilled lamb with a squeeze of lime), top sirloin, tri-tip, roasted pork, sweet-and-spicy chicken wings and homemade sausage. Best of all is the bacon-wrapped turkey. Rodizio also does a killer grilled pineapple.

Before you worry that this evening is going to end with a trip to the emergency room for open-heart surgery, the Full Rodizio includes an unlimited trip to the salad bar for a well-balanced meal. Plenty of fruits and vegetables harbor here, as well as my favorite, traditional Brazilian black beans (very heart smart!) served over white rice.

The Rodiz also serves what might be the best lemonade north of the Copacabana. Brazilian lemonade is a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors with fresh lime and a frothy, almost creamy, texture that is the perfect balance to the copious amounts of grilled meats you’ll be feasting on.

The biggest bonus? Just as Eliza Doolittle is going on about the rain in Spain, your date won’t be fidgeting in his seat after all that protein and mouth-watering turkey. You just might need to make sure there’s no snoring.

“My Fair Lady”
September 19 – October 4
Pioneer Theatre Company
300 S. 1400 East, Salt Lake City
www.pioneertheatre.org

Rodizio Grill
Trolley Square, 600 South and 700 East, Salt Lake City
“The Full Rodizio”: $24.99 dinner; $16.99 lunch
Open Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
(801) 220-0500
www.rodiziogrill.com

*Additional images courtesy of Rodizio Grill website

Rest assured, shopophiles. They might have been down and out for just a ittle bit but cute’n'savvy Kaleidoscope Boutique in Provo’s Riverwoods is back and in better shape than ever—just in time for you to carry out your fall shopping. (Phew; that was too close for comfort!)

Throughout the season, Kaleidoscope will be debuting pieces from a wide range of designers and in every price point. And now, for every purchase you make over $150, your name will be entered into a drawing to win a set of these heirloom-worthy Rosanna Christmas Plates. You know you want ‘em, and you know what you have to do. Shop!

{Welcome Back}

Kaleidoscope Boutique
4801 N. University Ave. #350
Salt Lake City, Utah
(801) 225-1352

Maybe you’re a step ahead of us and SkincareRX.com is already your one-stop shop for keeping your skin dewy and glowing in this drier-than-dry air. After all, the site gets shout-outs from popular beauty blogs and makeup message boards, and offers a bevy of coupon code handouts.

But aside from these perks, when you shop SkinCareRX you’ll also get feel-good rewards for shopping locally. That’s right, SkinCareRX is based at 700 West and 1055 South in Lake City. If the free priority shipping on items over $49 isn’t quick enough to remedy your latest skin funk, your Utah zip code gives you license to get your paws on must-have products, fast.

Head to headquarters for Murad Spot Treatment, DDF Glycolic Toner, Vitamin C Serum or DDF Silky Serum. Despite the scary names, these products are proof that skin can get back to sexy. Or, head to sister store Anne-Michele Apothica, located downtown at the Gateway. This swanky outlet carries goodies from Frederic Fekkai, Ted Gibson and Smashbox, to get you started….

Bonus: SkincareRX.com is have a 20% off storewide sale this autumn. Coupon code “AUTUMN20″ will hook you up at checkout. Afterall, saving money always imparts an extra glow.

{Later, Alligator}

SkinCare RX
700 W. 1055 S., Salt Lake City
Open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
(801) 463-2840 or 1-877-682-3553

Anne-Michele Apothica
171 S. Rio Grande Street Ste. B, Salt Lake City
Open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
(801) 746-7444
www.skincarerx.com

By Lisa Van Orman Hadley

About one-fourth of the world’s population needs eyeglasses but either doesn’t have access to them or can’t afford them. If you’re anything like me, you have a drawer full of old frames and lenses ranging from when you were eight to when you were twenty-eight.

So, you have glasses and they need glasses. What to do?

Here’s an idea: Many vision centers and non-profit organizations take old spectacles and recycle them. They clean them up, repair them if necessary, determine the prescription and then ship them off to be distributed to people who need them around the world.

We think the match is brilliant: You get rid of your old stuff without adding to the landfill, and the newly bespectacled gets to see the leaves on the trees for maybe the first time (and if you have anything less than 20/20, you know what a beautiful thing that is). Improved vision can also help others find jobs and learn to read.

What’s that you say, Eagle Eyes? You don’t have a prescription? No problemo. Most places can also make good with old sunglasses (prescription or non). Find a donation center near you here.

{Make A Spectacle of Yourself}

www.givethegiftofsight.com

By Ali Anderson Smith

Spotted: Must-have Hunter boots for the not-so-sporty

Good For: Looking good from knees to toes, come rain or shine

Where: Soel Boutique (4801 N. University Ave. #410, Provo)

How Much: About $110

Quick, name the number one reason why fall is the very best season. Now … let us guess: Is it the apple-picking that gets you hot? The long canyon drives? The crisp smell under your nose?

Nah. Though great alternatives (it ain’t easy to turn down a freshly-plucked apple), each falls short of the season’s very best attribute: layering weather. Who doesn’t love comfy and cozy clothes that are designed to keep you covered and looking smart?

Shade Clothing knows what’s up for Fall 2008. Check out their new line (online and in stores now), stacked with classic sweater pieces you’ll want to bundle yourself in this fall and next. From intentionally oversize to streamlined and structured, Shade’s latest designs come in flattering cotton blends (yum) and ultrasoft fleece (double yum). And naturally, there’s a hefty portion of basics just waiting to be added to.

We’re ready to wrap ourselves in the goes-with-anything Robe Wrap (check out the stylish cut of the sleeves), and the equally diverse Varsity Cardigan seems to by calling our names. At that price, we’ll take two. While you’re at it, have a look at Shade’s interestingly-shaped Paris Top (also interestingly-named), and the nice, poppy palette of the Sweatshirt With Gathers.

As if things weren’t looking bright enough, Shade rolls out a brand-new lounge collection—just when we though we couldn’t be more comfy. You’ll love the Zip Hoodie‘s lined hood and feminine details, and the Lounge Pant‘s generous and flattering waistline which put sweats to shame. Errand-running never looked (or felt) so good.

Say goodbye to summer and hello to Shade this September. And then start apple-picking, canyon-driving and crisp-air smelling in your favorite Shade sweater. And yes, a hoodie-and-pant combo is A-OK too.

{Shade Away}

Shade Clothing
11531 N. Main District Drive Ste. 1200, South Jordan (new!)
25 W. Parrish Lane, Centerville
50 N. Center Street, American Fork
University Mall, Orem
250 N. Red Cliffs Drive Ste. 33, St. George
www.shadeclothing.com

{Doorprize} To ensure that you’re adequately outfitted for the season, Shade Clothing is up for handing out a $75 gift card to one shop-happy YHO reader—and who isn’t shop-happy this time of year? To win this nice perk (and get your hands on some fab pieces), leave just one comment on this post before midnight on Friday, September 26.

By Courtney Buell
Photography by Cody Buell

We’ve had barbecue before. Or, we thought we had until we visited Charlie Boy’s Pit BBQ in Lehi—a brightly-painted shack surrounded with picnic tables on a grassy lot sandwiched on Historic Main Street. In true Southern fashion, customers order at a window, listen to live music, and rub shoulders with owners Steve Vermillion and Charlie “Boy” Hurdle as they mill around the dining area. That is, if they’re not tending to the “smoker” (which appears to be fashioned out of an oil drum).

Ordering at Charlie’s is simple: barbecued chicken, pork or beef sandwiches can be ordered a la carte, or as part of a meal. Sides include baked beans, potato salad, cole slaw and Baked Lays. The beans are sweet’n'smoky, the potato salad is creamy and the cole slaw is fresh, crunchy and perfectly-seasoned. Stop by soon, and you might have the added treat of fresh-roasted, locally-grown corn.

Sandwiches come doused with Charlie’s zesty special sauce, and combined with the meats, the meal qualified as some of the best “Carolina” barbecue we’ve had. The beef is shredded and flavorful, the chicken is tender and juicy, and the pulled-pork (obviously Charlie’s specialty), is melt-in-your-mouth amazing. Lucky for you, all meats can be ordered by the pint as well. On Fridays and Saturday evenings, Charlie whips up barbecued ribs which were enthusiastically described by one patron as “the best I’ve ever tasted!” … at the top of his lungs. We seconded that emotion.

Though there wasn’t much room left, we couldn’t deny ourselves a cup or two of Charlie’s homemade 10 percent butterfat ice cream in chocolate and vanilla, which was more than worth the stuff-yourself-silly stomach ache. Combined with the fair prices, charming venue and amazing food, Charlie’s offers what’s arguably the best Southern dining experience in Utah. Hurry in, y’all.

{Take Pit-y}

Charlie Boy’s Bit BBQ
88 W. Main Street
Lehi, Utah
Open Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. for dine-in or take-out
(801) 768-1931
www.charlieboyspitbbq.com

We picked a winner for the Oh Sweet Sadie giveaway and it’s Elizabeth D., who said, “I love handmade.” Elizabeth, send an e-mail to ali@yourheartout.com to learn how to obtain your winnings.

And don’t forget! The Oh Sweet Sadie show is on this weekend, too.

By Ali Anderson Smith

The Beehive State is in the house! Here are a few Etsy standouts. How awesome is that evil oven mitt? Never underestimate the power of humorous design. You couldn’t help but smile when pulling the meatloaf out of the oven with that guy in the picture.

A few goings-on you might want to look into this week include:

Stroll-A-Long: Put your walking shoes on for Salt Lake’s Gallery Stroll and Fall Fashion Stroll this weekend. Standouts include the Retrospective Art Show at the Partnership Gallery featuring Chelsea James and Trent Call, and the Trinnaman Sisters featuring Jamaica and Aubrey Trinnaman at Art Access II. Schedules here and here.

Suh-weet Sadie: Pull out your inner crafty shopper, round up your favorite divas, and head to Oh Sweet Sadie art and boutique sale in Suncrest this weekend. Catch the details here or here.

Dine-O-Round: Catch an apres-stroll bite at any of the local restaurants participating in Salt Lake’s Fall Dine O’Round, on now through September 27. You’ll get two-course lunches for $10, or three-course dinners for $15 or $30. Make your picks here.

Think You Can: See your fave Utah dancers (Chelsie, Gev, maybe more) when the “So You Think You Can Dance” crew cut rug at the E Center on Tuesday night. Get your tickets here.

Provo Crop: You’ve got 1.5 more months to round up fresh veggies (and peaches, lavendar lemonade and cute felted creations) at Provo’s Farmers Market at Pioneer Park from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Updates here.

Writing and photography by Elisa Scharton

Driving along scenic Highway 89 in Fruit Heights, Utah, passersby may (or may not) notice a sign announcing “Rock Loft, next right.” Naturally, you might assume that the Rock Loft is a store that sells rocks. And unless rocks are items that pique your interest, you’re likely to drive on. However, failure to make that turn would only result in your missing out on a hidden local treasure.

The Rock Loft a delightful group of shops nestled into the side of the mountains of Fruit Heights, Utah. In previous lives, this enclave on Old Mountain Road (which once connected Weber County to Salt Lake City pre-HWY 89 or I-15), housed a gas station, a dance hall—even a cherry warehouse. Nowadays, it’s home to artworks at the Canyon Gallery; delightful knicknacks at Secret Haven; designer clothing at the Hidden Closet; and, my favorite, the Bun Basket.

The Bun Basket is family-owned and operated. Upon entering, you might feel as though you stepped into Grandma’s country cabin—complete with her oversize kitchen table. A bakery and sandwich shop, the menu includes loaded ‘wiches of all kinds stacked on homemade bread. Perhaps best-known for its baked goods, you can stop by the Bun Basket for a standard cinnamon bun, but don’t miss out on the blueberry and raspberry varieties. You’ll want seconds … even thirds.

Like any trip to Grandma’s, guests never feel rushed at the Bun Basket. You’re allowed to slow down, enjoy homebaked goods, and talk with friends. But unlike Grandma’s, you won’t feel too guilty when you leave. Unless you had one too many blueberry cinnamon buns.

{Nice Buns}

The Rock Loft & Bun Basket
281 S. Mountain Road
Fruit Heights, Utah
(801) 593-9756
Open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Here’s a word or two about our September sidebar sponsors (read carefully: specials and deals, included!). Remember to help support them support YHO!

Total Health & Fitness: With nutrition and exercise consultants on-hand, THF acts as a coach whether you’re interested in fat loss, gaining muscle, firming, toning … the works. You choose the goal, they help you achieve it. THF is gearing you up for the holiday season with 10% off any program during September and October. Sign up here.

Wynona Robison Photography: Wynona’s light-filled photos of children are creative, honest and spontaneous—ideal for revealing young personalities. Right now, Wynona is booking Holiday Mini Sessions at $300 covering one 30-minute session for 1-2 children, 50 holiday cards, one wall print, 10% off print and production prices and more. See here.

ModMum: These reversible baby slings come in a variety of hip patterns and are at-once useful and stylish. They’ll make pretty out of post-pregnancy. Right now, ModMum is offering free shipping to YHO readers! Enter promo code: “yourheartout.” Start shopping here.

Heather Gibb Photography: Newcomer Heather Gibb specializes in natural, portrait photography. Her black-and-whites are timeless and classic. Heather is offering a free 8×10 print ($45 value) to any and all YHO readers who sign up for a full session before Sept. 30 (to be carried out before Nov. 15). She’s also booking mini sessions for holiday cards at $200, 11×14 print and 50 cards included. Read more here.

CATS & New Space Entertainment: Remember to pick up your tickets to “CATS,” on through the 21st of September. What’s in store for you from New Space Entertainment? “The Backyardigans,” “The Rat Pack Live at the Sands,” and “Wicked.” See a full schedule here.

Kaleidoscope Boutique: Classy meets kitschy at this friendly-yet-upscale boutique, carrying some of the most unique and interesting products we’ve seen locally. Think Deborah Sweeney, Odd Molly and Faryl Robin under one Kaleidoscope roof. Visit them at 4801 N. University Avenue in Provo’s Riverwoods. Get a feel here.

Jonathan Canlas Photography: If you’re in the market for a local-but-nationally-acclaimed film photographer, Jonathan is your guy. He’s known for his signature vibrant colors and master Holga skills. He’s currently supporting Nie Nie and preparing to teach at WPPI. And YHO Editor Ali is headed to his Film is Not Dead workshop this fall. (Aloooha!) He blogs here.

Fawn Boutique: Affordable, casual and cute, Fawn brings us designs from local artists and continues to show how national brands are reinventing their lines with breezy, feminine silhouettes. Visit them at 2343 E. 3300 South, Salt Lake City. Catch updates here.

Writing and photography by Danny Kourianos

Meat and potatoes. That often-heard cliche of man food: “I’m just a meat and potatoes kind-of-guy.” Well, Oktoberfest, going on now at Snowbird, is putting that old axiom to the test.

With big plates of homemade bratwurst and two types of potatoes—warm potato salad and potato pancakes (not the IHOP variety)—you can’t go wrong. If sausage isn’t your thing, consider the beef rouladen: thin filets of beef rolled an stuffed with bacon. It doesn’t get more manly than that. And did I mention it’s smothered in gravy? It is, and it’s delicious. The Oktoberfest menu also features a chicken entree, a few traditional German soups and spatzle (little dumplings … with more gravy).

But let’s be honest, the real reason you dragged yourself to the top of Little Cottonwood Canyon was for dessert. We didn’t sample the German chocolate cake, but the apple strudel was incredible—full of crunchy, tart apples and golden raisins, all wrapped in a liberally-dusted cinnamon pastry shell.

Lest you think it’s not a family affair, you’d be mistaken. There’s plenty for the kiddos: bungee trampolines, face-painting and alpine slides. There are also the traditional shops with handmade Bavarian clothing and trinkets.

{Top Chef}

Snowbird’s 36th Annual Oktoberfest
Snowbird Resort, Little Cottonwood Canyon
Weekends through October 5
Open noon – 6 p.m.
Free admission, meals $5 – $10
www.snowbird.com

By Liz Stanley

Spotted: Vintage alphabet blocks, just like you had as a kid

Good For: Decorating a nursery: spell out your child’s name for shelf display, glue several together for an unusual frame, or replace the boring knobs on your dresser with these beauties.* Or, simply practice your spelling.

Where: Abode (1720 S. 900 East, Salt Lake City)

How Much: $1.99 each

*Note: Due to the aging of and possibility of lead paint, it is not recommended to use these blocks as toys.