The sexiest and most eligible suburban singles are meeting up at The Capital Grille in King of Prussia on Thursday, February 16th from 6pm to 8pm.

Calling all sensational singles! Due to your continued feedback, AML is finally hosting our first ever singles event. Join us Thursday, February 16th from 6pm to 8pm in the bar at King of Prussia’s popular The Capital Grille for a cool cocktail party with the region’s top singles.

Bring your chutzpah and your charm and be ready to meet and mingle with local men and women. Dress is business casual, the event is free and The Capital Grille will generously be serving complimentary hors d’oeuvres to our special guests.

Join us for what promises to be the beginning of an incredible new singles series—AML’s Singles Mingle!

Kindly RSVP here on Facebook or email: rsvp@aroundmainline.com so that we can plan accordingly with The Capital Grille. Note, walk-ins are welcome and you do not have to RSVP to attend this event.

The Capital Grille is located at 236 Mall Boulevard in King of Prussia, PA. To make a reservation visit them on OpenTable or call 610-265-1415.

Be Mine on the Main Line benefits our furry friends at the Delaware County SPCA.

Calling all local animal lovers!

‘Be Mine on the Main Line,’ AroundMainLine.com’s signature charity event, returns this February for a fantastic evening of fundraising and fun for our favorite furry friends.

Join us Thursday, February 9th from 6pm to 8pm at Redhound Grille in Paoli as we host our annual Valentine’s-themed party to benefit the Delaware County SPCA. There is no cover to attend.

A portion of the night’s proceeds from the $25 special ‘Be Mine on the Main Line’ dinner menu at Redhound will be donated to the Delaware County SPCA! In addition, staff members from the Delaware County SPCA will be accepting donations directly, meeting and mingling with guests and selling raffle items throughout the night.

Please sport your finest red outfit to set the stage for a night of love and laughter for a very important cause.

Kindly RSVP on Facebook or email: rsvp@aroundmainline.com

Thank you everyone and see you all Thursday, Feb 9th!

**PLEASE NOTE: THIS EVENT IS RAIN, SNOW OR SHINE**

**DUE TO STATE HEALTH CODES, ANIMALS ARE NOT PERMITTED AT THIS EVENT**

Redhound Grille’s Be Mine on the Main Line
$25 Menu

(3 courses, one choice per course. Exclusive of tax, gratuity and alcohol. Includes a selection of that night’s desserts.)

APPETIZERS

A portion of the night's proceeds from the $25 special 'Be Mine on the Main Line' dinner menu at Redhound will be donated to the Delaware County SPCA!

Lager-Steamed Mussels
Steamed Mussels in Lager with Smoked Gouda, Sun Dried Tomatoes and House-Cured Bacon served with Garlic Bread

Flat Bread of the Day

Hummus Plate
Grilled Pita, Homemade Hummus, Olives and Roasted Red Peppers

Mixed Green Salad
Organic Spring Mix, Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumbers, shredded Carrots and sliced Red Onions with Choice of Dressing

Spinach Salad
Organic Baby Spinach, Roasted Butternut Squash, Dried Cranberries and Asiago Cheese with Citrus Vinagrette

Hand-Cut Fries or Hand-Cut Sweet Potato Fries
With Ketchup and Smoked Paprika Aoli

Soup of the Day

ENTREES

Grilled Black Angus Dry-Aged Hanger Steak
Balsamic-Marinated Hanger Steak served with Sautéed Mushrooms, House Steak Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries

Barbeque Braised Short Ribs
Slow-Braised Boneless Short Ribs of Beef with Pan Jus

Lamb Shanks
Braised Lamb Shanks in Red Wine served with a White Bean Cassoulet

Skillet Chicken
Skillet Roasted Organic Breast of Chicken with a Lager Pan Jus

Fish of the Day

Vegetarian Gnocchi
Gnocchi, Sautéed Spinach, Butternut Squash, Mushrooms and Dried Cranberries in a Gorgonzola Cream Sauce

Classic Mushroom Risotto
A blend of Kennett Square Mushrooms with a hint of White Wine and fresh Herbs

About Redhound Grille

Redhound Grille is located at 128 Paoli Pike in Paoli, PA. To make reservations for ‘Be Mine on the Main Line’ call 484-318-8047. For additional promotions and specials visit their website: redhoundgrille.com.

Mixx in Villanova is the perfect setting for our third annual sexy winter soiree welcoming the Main Line’s most eligible singles and beautiful people.
Photo courtesy of Belle Vie Photography

AroundMainLine.com’s sexiest winter soiree is back this February as the very fun and fabulous ‘Be Mine on the Main Line’ returns at Mixx in Villanova. Join hundreds of singles and beautiful couples and Main Liners for a Valentine’s-themed event on Thursday, February 17th from 6pm to 9pm.

‘Be Mine’ partygoers will be welcomed to Mixx in the bar area with no cover, free food and a night club atmosphere.

Mixx is a modern neighborhood hot spot. Mixx has a 40 seat modern bar with ten flat screen TVs and comfortable booths in a chandelier lit lounge.

One VERY lucky ‘Be Mine’ attendee will win a complimentary night out in a luxurious Secrets Limousine. The winner must be present to WIN!
Photo courtesy of Courtney Apple Photography

And, one lucky attendee of ‘Be Mine’ will walk away with a complimentary night in a luxurious Secrets Limousine! The winner must be present to win. Bring your business cards (with email address) to enter our raffle for a chance to win this incredible prize. Also, Secrets Limousine will have one of their incredible limos parked outside of Mixx for everyone to experience and see.

Be sure to invite your friends and coworkers to ‘Be Mine on the Main Line’ as AroundMainLine.com continues one of our most anticipated winter traditions at Mixx in Villanova!

Be Mine on the Main Line III

When: Thursday, February 17th 6pm-9pm

Where: Mixx Restaurant and Bar, 789 East Lancaster Avenue Villanova

Sponsors: Weyerbacher Brewery, Secrets Limousine, Rokk Vodka

Cover: There is no cover charge. Mixx will be offering specials on Weyerbacher bottles and fun Rokk Vodka cocktails!

What: The Main Line’s sexiest and chicest winter soiree is BACK! ‘Be Mine on the Main Line’ is a very sophisticated, Valentine’s-themed event that returns to the Main Line for the first time at Mixx in Villanova. And, all AroundMainLine.com events, it is free to attend! NO COVER, comp, delicious food and great drink specials await all. Plus a bevy of the most beautiful people around the Main Line.

Who: 21 and over. SINGLES, COUPLES and the SUBURBS’ CUTEST PEOPLE: JOIN US!

Facebook: Click here to view our full event listing on Facebook

RSVP: Kindly email rsvp@aroundmainline.com to help us plan accordingly or RSVP on our Facebook event page.

Grand Prize: A FREE night out to party in a luxurious Secrets Limousine will be awarded to one lucky attendee. Must be present to win so arrive at 6pm sharp!

Mixx is located conveniently near I-476 and near Villanova University. Mixx also features Live Music on the weekends and Happy Hour Monday thru Friday 5pm-7pm.

“My life is full; full of interests, friends, and family. But, I hope to add a special someone to share the laughter and experiences of life with,” said Bowersox.

Toni Bowersox is a self-proclaimed tomboy. And, for the 53-year-old, Wilmington native she would not have it any other way. The AML sensational single, with an adorable pixie cut and personality to match, always found playing with the neighborhood boys growing up more intriguing than hanging with the girls. And, that playfulness and outgoing part of her rings true today. “I’ve always been on the periphery – not a follower, nor a trendsetter, but someone who is comfortable in her own skin being unique, following my own style. As a young girl, I climbed trees with the neighborhood boys—pretty much a tomboy, but yet held on to my feminine charm and character. To this day I am very at ease with men and attribute this to being a part of their play from an early age,” explained Bowersox.

The mother of one whose daughter, Taylor, is a nineteen-year old with special needs and whom Bowersox calls her “greatest teacher,” Toni was married for over twenty years before divorcing in 2008. Bowersox comes from a childhood where her own parents divorced when she was eight-but family ties remained important. “As a young girl, many of my weekends were spent at the homes of my Italian relatives playing with my many cousins. I have fond memories of Saturday dinners followed by games with cousins, aunts, and uncles. And on the Polish side, we gathered as a family on Sundays at my maternal grandmother’s home. This was a much more sedate gathering, but none the less fostered that love of family, tradition, and closeness,” said Toni.

Bowersox is an active volunteer with Habitat for Humanity.

Bowersox draws from a family lineage of independent women—her maternal grandmother was a ‘Rosie the Riveter’ the cultural iconic name for women who worked in factories during World War II. Toni’s mother moved to Germany when she was sixteen. Bowersox decided to stay behind and finish out her high school years in Wilmington. Today, Bowersox fosters her female relationships with her love of fitness and the outdoors—she regularly hosts yoga weekend getaways for women at her beach house in North Bethany.

Those friendships with men and women are a key facet of her life, explained Bowersox. But, to this day, she enjoys maintaining that independence she developed as a teenager. “I am okay with being by myself. Actually there are times when I must make time to do this, to recharge my batteries. My life is full; full of interests, friends, and family but I hope to add a special someone to share the laughter and experiences of life with.”

The 53-year-old Wilmington native enjoys biking, hiking, kayaking, interior decorating, and crafting.

Get to Know Toni

Full Name: Toni Ann Parisi Bowersox

Age: 53

Occupation: Sales

Height: 5’3 ¾

Hair Color: Light brown with blonde highlights

Eye Color: Brown

Marriage: Bowersox was married for over 20 years and has been divorced for about two years.

Children: Taylor, 19, Bowersox’s daughter with special needs. Taylor attended Chester County’s Camphill Special School for years where Bowersox currently resides on the board. “With children with special needs, it is never easy and there are challenges. But, Taylor has been one of my greatest teachers in life showing me how to live in the moment. I can’t explain how deep my love is for her.”

Faith: Spiritual

Charities of Choice: Habitat for Humanity, The Camphill Special School

Nationality: Polish & Italian

Hometown: Wilmington, DE

Resides: West Chester

High School: Concord High School

College: University of Delaware, Special Education

“I like to surround myself with good friends for fun and laughter. With that said, I am also okay with being by myself. Actually, there are times when I must make time to do this–to recharge my batteries,” explained Toni

Hobbies: Biking, hiking, kayaking, interior decorating, crafting

Sign: Gemini/Cancer

Pet: Golden Retriever, Rosie

Personal Trainer of Choice: Mike Quarto, QFitness (qfitness.com) West Chester

Fit and Fabulous: “It is very important for the person I date to be physically fit and conscious of the importance of their health and body and enjoys the outdoors. That also translates to a certain mental and emotional level of fitness.”

Volunteering: Bowersox started giving back to the community in her early twenties-volunteering at a local hospital in the pediatric division. Today, it’s a priority for her and for the person she dates.

Describe what you are looking for in a relationship: A friend—a companion, someone to share life with; someone with a heart who can shed a tear, but just as important is someone who is in great shape—physically and emotionally. He will be confident and curious, open to new experiences, flexible and young-at-heart and at this point in his life able to afford, both in time and money, to travel and play.

Idea Of a Great First Date: If I am interested in the man, he should think outside the box…not dinner and a movie but maybe a Phillies game, Longwood at Christmas, picnic lunch in the park, a map to a destination meeting spot-just surprise me! If we are meeting for the first time, coffee at Starbucks or lunch at a local restaurant.

Last Relationship Ended: When I realized I was offering much more than I was receiving.

First Kiss Was: My childhood crush, Bobby—we were five or six playing doctor.

First Time My Heart Was Broken: The day my mom took me by the hand and walked away from my dad, home, and friends.

In High School I Was: Part of the “In Crowd.”

Biggest Misconception About Me: I have it all together.

Favorite Sports Teams: Phillies

Favorite Philadelphia Professional Athlete: Ryan Howard

Brush with Fame: I’ve been an extra in a couple of films, an infomercial, and a commercial or two. I’ve also been on-air on QVC, in People Magazine, on the Danny Bonaducci show to promote a book, and was photographed and quoted in USA Today. My work with Habitat for Humanity has also been documented both in the Bloomberg Report and on Habitat’s web site. My involvement with, and support of, Camphill Special School has been documented by AroundMainLine.com.

Bowersox’s idea of a great first date includes taking in a Phils’ game and cheering on Ryan Howard.

Personal Motto: Honesty is the best policy.

Date Deal Breaker: If the date becomes intoxicated or treats others disrespectfully, is crude or rude.

Favorite Local Shore Town? I’m a Delaware beach girl—Bethany, Lewes, or Rehoboth.

My Friends Would Describe Me As: Adorable, genuine, down to earth, and young at heart!

First Date Kiss? It all depends on the person.

Favorite Clothing Stores: Nordstrom/shoes & boots; Anthropology/tops; Apricot Lane/dresses & tops; Lucky Brand/jeans

Last Book You Read: “Against Medical Advice”

Favorite Movie of the Moment: “Precious”

Favorite Musician: Black Eyed Peas

TV Shows You Never Miss: Gray’s Anatomy and Californication

Most Attractive Physical Part of A Man Is: Besides his mind-great biceps, not overly large just defined…yum!

Favorite Food: Nuts

Favorite Cocktail: Wine

Favorite Restaurant in the Burbs: Savona Bistro, Kennett Square (www.savonabistro.com)

Favorite thing to Grab at Wawa: Apples and peanut butter.

Best Way to Spend a Sunday Afternoon: Visiting with my daughter at school!

Date Pet Peeves: Not being attentive to his date.

I Love Men Who Are: Confident, intelligent, kind, fit, and present in the moment.

When I date a man they can expect: My attention and the unexpected!

Want to nominate a sensational single for AroundMainLine.com to consider? Email: singles@aroundmainline.com with a picture and a maximum 50 word description. Singles can reside anywhere throughout the Delaware Valley, minimum age required is 21. Nominations will be kept strictly confidential.

Shiffler’s clothes courtesy of Bryn Mawr’s popular men’s boutique, Pants.

Twenty-four year old Maxamillion Shiffler, a.k.a. Max, is looking for a best friend and a woman who does not live for the party scene. The handsome, blond union carpenter and Phoenixville native is a young man with quite a head on his shoulders. While most guys (his age) are hitting the local bars all weekend long, Max is focused on staying in shape and sticking with his priorities: family, friends and fitness. He is considering enrolling in the Marines in the spring of 2010. But, with piercing blue eyes and a gorgeous ‘million’ dollar grin, this blue-collar catch is not afraid to embrace his feminine side. “I get my eyebrows waxed and go tanning and I am not afraid to let everyone know! And, I work out a lot. Taking care of myself and staying in shape is really important to me,” explained Shiffler.

We came across Shiffler via a strong recommendation from an AML Facebook Fan who had highly suggested we consider the David Beckham lookalike as a sensational local single to celebrate. A brief conference call with ‘Beckham’s’ best friend Dave Wakeley confirmed we had discovered one great suburban gem of a guy. “Max is a no-nonsense kind of guy. He is very honest and trustworthy-very hard working and cherishes his friendships. We need to find Max a great woman with no baggage who appreciates what a great guy he is. He has a wonderful family and Max deserves the best. Whoever Max meets, they are going to cash in big,” explained Wakeley.

Shiffler’s best friend describes him as: no-nonsense type of guy.

Get To Know Max

Full Name: Maxamillion Michael Shiffler

Age: 24

Occupation: Philadelphia Union Carpenter Local 1595

Career Aspiration: Model

Mantra: Power Up!

Height: 5’11

Hair Color: Dirty Blonde

Eye Color: Green

Nationality: German/ Hungarian

Faith: Roman Catholic

Hometown: Phoenixville

Currently Resides: Phoenixville

High School: Phoenixville Area High School

College: United brotherhood of carpenters and joiners of America Apprentice School

Sign: Virgo

Bend it Like Beckham: Shiffler bears an uncanny resemblance to international soccer star David Beckham.

Conquering Tall Buildings with a Single Bound: Shiffler does a lot of scaffolding work as a carpenter and is not afraid of heights. One of his projects included working at the top of Center City’s Comcast Building-harnessed 1,000 feet in the air.

Animal Lover: I had 3 year old German Sheppard name Honz who I recently just lost to kidney cancer. I love German Sheppards.

Ideal Woman: I am looking for a hard working woman. Someone who is very loyal, trust worthy, and knows what she wants. No drama allowed! I am not a big fan of drama or party girls-I would like to live a stress free life.

Ideal First Date: My idea of a perfect date is a nice candle light dinner at a nice place that both mutually agree too…. With some cocktails and dancing to end the night… and maybe a good night kiss…

Last Relationship Ended: June 2009

First Time Heart Was Broken: Recently in June :(

Female Celebrity Dream Date: Amy Smart

Favorite Philly Sports Team: Eagles

Secret Date Spot in The City: I love Cubra Libre In Old City because mojito’s are one of my favorite drinks.

Date Deal Breaker: Girls that text or are always on their phones during a date

Best Place to Hang in the Burbs: I believe the Phoenixville downtown bar area is by far the best in the burbs…great friends, food and beer.

Favorite Jersey Shore Town: Bradley Beach

Shiffler is a union carpenter who is contemplating a spring stint in the Marine Corp.

My Mother Would Say: I am a hard working, sensitive loving person

My Friends Would Describe Me As: Hardworking, loyal… good person that comes from a good family

Kiss on A First Date? If the mood and time was right

Favorite Clothing Store: Armani Exchange

Morning Radio Station: 104.5

I Can’t Stand Women Who: Who can’t let go of the past and want to talk about ex-boyfriends. I also think women should split the tab and offer to pay the bill themselves sometimes.

I Love Women Who: Ask questions and are curious. And, I love a woman who respects the hard working blue-collar man.

Favorite Food: Cheese quesadillas

Favorite Cocktail: Mojito

Favorite Beer: Landshark

Marriage? I am 24 now, I hope when I’m around 26 or 27

Kids? I want 3 kids

Wheels: 2008 GMC Duramax diesel lifted monster truck

Signature Cologne: I can’t tell my secrets

Favorite Perfume on a Woman: Polo Blue

Best Bar to Share a Beer with the Buddies: PJ Ryan’s in Phoenixville, the owners and management makes you feel like you are home.

I Make a Great Catch Because: I am the one and only Max. I will always make u laugh, I’m loyal, trustworthy, I know what I want in life, and I’m fair.

Favorite TV Show: Saved By the Bell

Geno’s or Pats? Pat’s

Special thanks to our good friends at Downingtown’s Firecreek Restaurant & Bar for their generosity and accommodations for our photo shoot. Visit their website, firecreek-restaurant.com for seasonal menus and upcoming events.

Jon Segal, owner of Pants men’s boutique in Bryn Mawr, provided the fashion for Max Shiffler. Looking for great holiday fashion for yourself or your favorite guy? Head over to Pants, located at 931 Lancaster Avenue in Bryn Mawr, on the second floor above Skirt. Call 610-527-6900 or visit their website, www.shop-pants.com.

Smith, 22, is a diehard Phils fan, loves college basketball and cheers for the Orlando Magic.

Don’t think Kayleen Smith is just another pretty face. The 22-year-old former Cabrini College basketball star and Anna Kournikova look-alike, budding model and local single has her sights set on a career in sports television. Smith, who just wrapped up an intense summer internship cutting her teeth with Comcast Sportsnet (albeit drooling over stud anchor and Philadelphia pretty boy Michael Barkann part of the time, see below) is serious about breaking into a world still very much dominated by men. “I’m willing and eager to start somewhere and work my way up. I just want someone to give me an opportunity to get my feet wet in television and I will take off! I have a great willingness to learn and a winning mentality and that is important in sports-because I throw myself into every task I am given.”

Kayleen fell in love with the frenzied, high pressure pace of live television when she sauntered down at the end of her intern duties to watch the final moments of Sportsnet’s number one weekday show, Daily News Live. “It is completely nuts, everyone is running around screaming and yelling-it is something else to watch. You don’t see that when the show is live and the lights come on and the host welcomes everyone with a big, calm smile. I loved that atmosphere. TV is so exhilarating, and the show must go on as they say. The viewers don’t care if an edit bay crashed or an external drive is not working…it’s all or nothing! This is the industry I belong in.”

The new college grad is excited about the opportunities that await her. “I am now embarking on a new chapter in my life where everything isn’t already predetermined and I can dictate my own future,” said Smith.

Kayleen’s confidence and natural charisma was evident during our first phone conversation, no surprise as the beauty with the brains was crowned St. Joseph’s (Hammonton, NJ) homecoming queen in 2004. “I always want to (and strive to) be a better sister, a better daughter, a better friend—whatever it is I always work to make myself better. And, I think people around me catch on to that vibe and I believe that is why I have had success my entire life. I never let myself fall short of those standards.”

The winning attitude and athletic prowess (Smith had a very successful career as a star forward on the Cavaliers women’s basketball team) stems from her family tree. Former Saint Joe’s basketball star (and Kayleen’s dad) John Smith is best known in Big Five basketball circles for his winning layup against #1 DePaul in the 1981 NCAA Tournament. The play is legendary and the win, which catapulted the ninth-seeded Hawks to an unlikely trip to the Sweet Sixteen, is considered one of the great NCAA tourney games of all-time. It’s a moment also best burned in Philly sports fans’ memories as (then) St. Joe’s head coach Jimmy Lynam ran furiously down the court to hug his teenage daughter, Dee. “My dad always loved being the underdog, constantly proving himself. People still to this day talk about the play he made, the layup. It’s pretty neat that in just a few seconds, like the time my dad had to make that moment happen and win the game, can shape your life forever! That is how I am personality-wise, I think, in a large part because of that winning attitude he instilled in my brother and sister and myself. My dad knows how to make the most out of every opportunity. Now he works in the financial industry, but I still see the athlete and that competitive edge in him daily,” beamed Smith.

Kayleen was a standout for the Cabrini College women’s basketball team and a Conference MVP for the Cavaliers in their 2009 CSAC Championship season.

As she wound down her first summer as a college grad and Comcast internship along with juggling a handful of odd jobs, Smith recently interviewed for a part-time position at Sportsnet in their production department. This sensational single keeps busy with her beloved boxer named Bryndal, family, friends and career ambitions-and has high expectations for the right Mr. Right. “I am looking for a great guy who has a sense of humor, ambition, and most importantly a guy who has a good outlook on life and doesn’t take anything for granted. My ideal guy doesn’t take himself too seriously and goes wherever the waves take him. He’s a man when he needs to be and a goof the rest of the time—and never lets a smile leave my face. Someone who makes me a better me every day, as cheesy as that sounds. I won’t settle until I find him.”

Interested parties can email Kayleen below. Game on.

Get to Know Kayleen

Full Name: Kayleen Anastasia Smith

Age: 22

Occupation: Budding sports exec/host, model, actress

Height: 5’11″

Hair Color: Blonde

Eye Color: Blue

Smith’s athletic prowess stems from her father, Big Five basketball legend and former Saint Joe’s Hawk John Smith. Smith scored the famous game-winning layup for the Hawks on their road to the Sweet Sixteen against #1 DePaul in the 1981 NCAA Tournament. It’s considered one of the greatest upsets in college basketball history.

Nationality: Irish, French, Indian, English

Hometown: Williamstown, NJ

High School: St. Joseph’s (Homecoming Queen 2004)

College: Cabrini, B.A. English and Communications

Sign: Aquarius

Email: kas727@cabrini.edu

Parents: John and Lillian

Siblings: Benjamin, 24 and Amanda, 18

BFF: Kayleen has had the same best friend since kindergarten.

My Idea Of A Great First Date: Completely unscripted. We agree on the place together considering we just met and then we take it from there. I am very ease to please due to my lack of pickiness.

Won’t You Be My Neighbor?: Northern Liberties gentlemen should take note-Kayleen loves the vibe of the city’s hippest neighborhood and will be moving there this fall.

Kayleen currently resides in Williamstown, NJ but will be moving to Northern Liberties next month.

In High School I Was: The tomboy every guy wanted as their teammate-just not as their girlfriend.

Achy Breaky Heart? I am fortunate to say I have yet to experience my first heart break. Relationships are hard work, every couple knows that. It’s the most demanding selfless act you could voluntarily sign up for and when they end, it definitely takes a while to recover and gain that part of you (back) that went missing.

Celebrity Look-Alikes: I get Blake Lively a lot, Anna Kournikova, Jewel, and on a really good day Scarlet Johansson. People always tell me that I remind them of someone they know.

Male Celebrity Dream Date: I would be perfectly content being within five feet of Gerard Butler where I could just stare at him for however long a date would normally carry on for. I went to the Kings of Leon concert not too long ago and I envisioned what it would be like to go on a date with lead singer, Caleb Followill. My utopia would be having one song sung to me by him. A man who can sing and play the guitar is my weakness. I think the song “Use Somebody” is secretly about me.

Last Movie You Saw Was: District 9

Biggest Misconception About Me: People think I am unintelligent and incompetent because of my hair color.

Hoop There It Is: Smith was a four-year starter for the Cavaliers and says her Cabrini teammates have formed a sisterhood for life. “My teammates are everything to me and have become a huge part of my extended family.”

“My mother would describe me as ‘a hard working, butt kickin’, sweet Irish lass.’”

Favorite Sports Teams: The Phillies-of course, Flyers, Orlando Magic, and all college basketball

Starting Lineup: Smith can name the pitching rotation and entire starting lineup for the Fightin Phils.

Werth It: “I love every player on the Phillies! Jimmy Rollins and Jayson Werth are my two favorites, though.”

Comcast Sportsnet Crush: Michael Barkann “I wouldn’t mind having a couple beers and talking sports with him. He has such an aura about him, I am so intrigued by his sports knowledge and he just draws me right in. I am totally captivated by him when I am watching Sportsnet! He has just that something about him. The first day I met him during my internship he was so polite, shook my hand, took the time to speak with me–it was like meeting Brad Pitt! There is something about him-he has the ‘it’ factor. If I break into an on-air position someday, Michael Barkann is who I would emulate.”

Brush With Fame: I placed third in a Roxy modeling competition out of 500 girls. That was pretty cool!

Secret Date Spot in The City: Parc (parc-restaurant.com)

Favorite Jersey Shore Town: I’ve grown up always going to Ocean City. We’ve had a shore house right off the island in Marmora for eight years now, but my favorite beach to surf at is definitely LBI.

My Mother Would Say I Am: A hard working, butt kickin’, sweet Irish lass.

My Friends Would Describe Me As: Outgoing, friendly, bubbly, quirky, extremely passionate

Most Attractive Physical Part of A Man: His smile and dimples are always a plus.

Kiss on A First Date? That all depends. I wouldn’t completely rule it out. If the feeling was right, I would go with it.

Favorite Clothing Store: Ron Jon Surf Shop

Favorite Perfume: Beachy by Lilly Pulitzer

Five Songs on Kayleen’s iPod Right Now: Pearl Jam – Black, Airborne Toxic Event – Wishing Well, Jack Johnson – Flake, Doors – Roadhouse Blues, Chili Peppers – Minor Thing

Favorite Musicians: Bob Marley, Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Dave Matthews, Caleb Followill of Kings of Leon

Morning Radio Station: 104.5, Preston & Steve

Philadelphia is a City of… Brotherly love baby!

Favorite Food: Sushi

Favorite Cocktail: Tullamore Dew with a splash of ginger ale

Favorite BYOB In the City: Little Fish in Center City

Favorite Place on the Main Line to Have Drinks: Gullifty’s! They have the best beer selection in the area and their menu is extensive and accommodating to anyone’s taste. I used to work there too!

Favorite Coffee Shop: Cousins Coffee Shop in South Philly

When I date a man they can expect: There to never be a dull moment!

Date Pet Peeves: Text messaging and/or talking on their phone. I think when you are out with someone who you truly care about that should be a given. I want my man to put the world on hold for me. I would expect him to ask the same of me. Dining etiquette is a must as well.

Puppy Love: Kayleen’s two year old Boxer, Bryndal, is her current full-time commitment. You can catch ‘Bryn’ and Kayleen at the park most evenings playing catch.

Family Matters: As for my mom, I always joke that she belongs in the South and not in Philly because she is so sweet and polite to everyone she meets. I learned from her to be kind and generous to people-even strangers. I am very close to my parents and they are my biggest fans.

Want to nominate a sensational single for AroundMainLine.com to consider? Email: singles@aroundmainline.com with a picture and a maximum 50 word description. Singles can reside anywhere throughout the Delaware Valley, minimum age required is 21. Nominations will be kept strictly confidential.

O’Brien, 44, can often be found picking up her morning Joe at One Stop Coffee in her Northern Libs neighborhood.

I was having a casual email exchange with new AML friend Donna O’Brien, owner and creative director of Northern Liberties floral boutique Beautiful Blooms, a few weeks ago when O’Brien mentioned she was single. I was surprised…and secretly excited! The 44-year-old blond bombshell is as pretty as she is personable, bubbly as she is brilliant and as kind as she is cool. A few minutes later, I had successfully snagged Donna as the first fabulous female in our new series, Sensational Singles. Two days later, we were chit-chatting away on the phone about O’Brien’s life as a successful businesswoman in one of Philly’s hippest neighborhoods.

With a slew of friends and business connections throughout the city and suburbs, Donna is a social butterfly tackling on Phillies game, her favorite BYO or her gorgeous garden. Her day-to-day duties with Beautiful Blooms has O’Brien designing breathtaking centerpieces for Main Line and Philadelphia clients, weddings and events fresh out of her new Northern Liberties storefront. So, that leaves little time for finding Mr. Right!

But Beautiful Blooms regulars do know there is one special man that is always by Donna’s side. T.J-her beloved one-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog and BFF- is her 120 pound constant companion. Tucker was O’Brien’s first Bernese Mountain Dog that she adopted after going through a divorce three years ago. Tucker passed away suddenly at the age of one. “I wasn’t quite ready to get another dog. It took some time, it was very tough. But, T.J. helped to introduce me to the neighborhood in Northern Liberties. I would get stopped all the time (when I first adopted him) on the street and in the dog park because you just don’t see a lot of Bernese Mountain Dogs around. Now everybody says ‘You are T.J.’s mom!’ People laugh that I don’t have the pocketbook dog. He is a big teddy bear. And, he is very protective of me-if someone comes to the door his bark makes it sound like he is going to eat the person. But T.J. is a gentle giant; don’t let his appearance fool you!”

Beautiful Blooms…and a Beautiful Smile.
When O’Brien can escape her hectic schedule running her own booming floral design boutique, she has a variety of interests. “I love being outdoors whether it’s golfing, hiking, kayaking, running, walking, traveling, wine tasting. I need to get back to Sonoma one of these days!”
Photo courtesy of Jason Varney (varneyphoto.com)

Get To Know Donna

Age: 44

Occupation: Owner and Creative Director of Beautiful Blooms (a Floral and Décor Company) and Beautiful Blooms Boutique

Website: www.beautifulblooms.com

Blog: www.beautifulblooms.com/blog

Email: donna@beautifulblooms.com

The ‘A’ Team: Donna and good friend Kendall Brown (of Eclatante Designs) are well known around the Main Line. They are considered the region’s dynamic event and floral design duo. Their retail spaces face each other in their NoLibs space.

Height: 5’ 31/2”

Hair Color: Blonde

Eye Color: Brown

Nationality: Irish & Polish, mother is German, dad has some English heritage

Faith: Not really practicing, but Catholic

Hometown: London (spent 6 years of my life growing up there), then Yardley, PA

High School: Pennsbury High School

College: F.I.T., Associates in fashion merchandising and buying

Sign: Leo

Currently Resides: Northern Liberties area of Philadelphia

T.J. is Donna’s constant companion and best friend. A one-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog, he walks with her to work each day and has a pseudo-celeb status in their neighborhood.

Morning Show: I am a total Today Show person! I am usually at work very early, but if I can catch it between getting ready, taking T.J. for a walk and starting my day, I do.

Green Thumb: Philadelphia Home recently photographed Donna’s gorgeous yard for an upcoming feature.

In A NutShell: I am an old fashioned girl…thought I’d be married for ever but it didn’t work out that way and that is okay. I actually started this business when I was not so happy and when I got divorced I put everything into building my company. It really paid off and I love what I do. I have an amazing team that works with me. I love being outdoors…golfing, hiking, kayaking, running, walking but I also enjoy trying new restaurants, reading (haven’t had much time for that lately), traveling, wine tasting (need to get back to Sonoma one of these days) and am pretty much open to most things…not hand gliding or parachuting though!

Family Gal: I am very close with my parents, who now live in Florida. They come up about three times a year for a visit and they are just wonderful. I’m also very close to my aunt and uncle that live in the Outer Banks and I love going to visit them. My other aunt and uncle and my brother are local, so it is nice to spend time with them too.

Working Girl: I work constantly with my business, I am usually at my office or out at a wedding, party, scouting locations–you name it. But, I also have a great circle of friends and enjoy spending time with them, so usually when I am out and about I am not meeting new people because we are all so busy catching up.

Twist of Fate: Donna’s former roommate met his fiancé moments after he walked out the door one day. “I believe in fate. You just never know what the day will bring.”

Describe What You Are Looking For In A Man: Someone that makes me laugh, that is kind and caring, someone that understands who I am and appreciates me for that and doesn’t try to change me. Someone that likes to keep in shape, that I can talk to and share anything with. And, most importantly, someone that is willing to try just about anything, a man who is honest and open and likes dogs (I’ve got a big one).

Miss Manners: Chivalry is not dead in my world. I love a door being held for me, the car door being opened for me…manners matter.

My Idea of A Great First Date: An activity is always good so it keeps you busy. Maybe wine tasting and then dinner, hiking and then a picnic. I like creativity but it doesn’t have to be over the top. Scavenger hunt?

Birthday Girl!
Donna is a Leo and her 44th birthday is this Sunday, August 2nd.

Last Relationship: I’m now divorced for three years but did date someone for a year after that. I have been on dates, but nothing has really clicked.

High School Persona: I just arrived from London and so I was known as the most fashionable girl in our school.

Biggest Misconception About Me: I have heard from friends that some guys are overwhelmed or not sure what the right word is….can’t quite handle that I own my own business and know what I want. Just because I have my own business it doesn’t mean that I don’t want to find someone great to date and relax with! Deep down I am just a girl looking for my best friend to share some fun and adventure with.

Favorite Jersey Shore Town: Love Beach Haven, Long Beach Island

My Mother Would Say I Am: A nice girl and worth getting to know. They are very, very proud of me.

My Friends Would Describe Me As: Kind, talented, attractive and fun.

Kiss on A First Date? Sure, but I still believe in the old fashion dating rules-of taking things slowly and getting to know each other.

Favorite Clothing Store: Third Street Habit

Five Songs on Your iPod Right Now: Most of the time I use my Ipod to run with so Lady Gaga’s album, of course the greatest hits of Michael Jackson, Madonna. I love to hang out at home with a great glass of wine and some candles and listen to Nora Jones.

Thing about Philly I love the most is…I spent a lot of time in NYC and I love that Philadelphia is smaller and so much more ‘doable.’ I love that it’s a neighborhood-there are so many fun and amazing things to do here.

Most Attractive Part of A Man: His smile

I Can’t Stand Men Who: Talk about themselves nonstop. Let’s share info and listen to each other….that is how you get to know each other.

Date Deal Breakers: You cannot ask me on a date via a text message. No texting to confirm a date either! Guys should confirm a few days ahead to make sure everything is set. And, I really believe that my date should come pick me up. No meeting halfway–come to my door and drop me back off at the end of the night. This whole texting thing has gotten completely out of control–it is rude!

I Love Men Who: Listen and are honest. Hey, if you go out on a date and realize it is not going anywhere it is best to be upfront instead of ‘I’ll call you’ and never do.

Favorite Food: So many but probably Italian–but then I love Mexican too!

Favorite Cocktail: This is hard it depends on the season, time of day. I love a great glass of wine, love a mimosa with breakfast and sometimes it is a beer or margarita kind of night.

Favorite BYOB In the City: Modo Mio (modomiorestaurant.com), between Second and Front on Girard

Favorite Coffee Shop: One Shot Coffee in Northern Liberties

Best Way to Spend a Sunday Afternoon: Waking up early to go for a run, taking T.J. for a walk. I’d have brunch with friends and then sit back, relax and read a book in my side garden.

When I date a man they can expect: That I am fun, have lots to talk about, like to take care of myself and dress nicely. I really like to do fun things!

Describe The Perfect Guy: I really don’t care what someone does for a living. I love to cook and entertain and be outdoors. It’s more about someone whose personality matches mine. I love to see plays in the city, museums and restaurants…you name it!

You Can Bring Me Flowers: Donna wants to debunk the perception that she would not want (or appreciate) a beautiful bouquet on a first date. She loves flowers, as long as the savvy gentleman discreetly orders them through her staff at Beautiful Blooms!

Donna O’Brien is the Owner and Creative Director of Beautiful Blooms, a Northern Liberties-based Floral and Décor Company. Donna is also on Facebook. Donna can be contacted via her email at: donna@beautifulblooms.com.

Want to nominate a sensational single for AroundMainLine.com to consider? Email: singles@aroundmainline.com with a picture and a maximum 50 word description. Singles can reside anywhere throughout the Delaware Valley, minimum age required is 21. Nominations will be kept strictly confidential.