Cheryl Richards
Awarded "Photographer of the Year" by the Professional Photographers Association of Massachusetts, this talented Boston newcomer wowed the judges with her wedding album, which took top honors. Artful black and white photographs capture the day in all its candid glory and charm, from prewedding jitters to frolicking flower girls, to Daddy's last dance with his little girl. 105 Newbury Street, Boston, MA .
Trident Booksellers & Café
For atavistic hearts who still take pleasure in the smell of newsprint and the crackle of magazine stock, a trip to the Trident is a trip to paradise. The bookstore-cum-newsstand-cum-restaurant carries glossies from Arena to Yankee, not to mention a library of literary journals and a graduate seminar's worth of art and photography magazines. Browsers more dot-com-oriented than broadsheet-minded relish the free WiFi and the satisfying soup and salads. 338 Newbury St., Boston, MA 2115, tridentbookscafe.com.
LuxLash
We can't quite put our finger on when brow shaping morphed from a quick rip of indifferently applied tape into an art form. But we do know that LuxLash has perfected the procedure. The specialty spa, so popular it moved to a larger location six months after opening, charges a reasonable $25 to $35 for a painless, expertly waxed and plucked arch. Owner Suzanne Cats has even developed her own brow-extension technology for those who believe more is more. 232 Newbury St., Boston, MA 2116, luxlash.com.
Varese Shoes
This is the place for parents tired of chain stores and brands, logos, and swooshes. For more than 40 years, Mario Corsaro has been buying classic, supple leather Italian shoes for children. His staff is trained in the art of fitting small feet— they will not sell you a shoe that does not fit. Just don't expect any sneakers with flashing lights. 285 Hanover St., Boston, MA .
Artisans Gift Gallery and Cafe
An unlikely place to find Newbury Street-quality merchandise, but don't be deterred by its setting hard by Foodmaster and Blockbuster Video. A small but lovely selection of art furniture, innovative gifts, CD storage racks, mirrors, photo albums, and classy cards make this a perfect place to pick up a wedding gift or a birthday present. And when you've finished shopping, swing by the other side of the shop for a latte and biscotti. Charlestown Mall, Charlestown, MA .
Bristol Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel
The Bristol is a refreshing respite from the cigar-chompin' clubbier bars around town, yet it still manages—with its white-coated waitstaff, marble bar tops, and Vose Galleries art—to maintain a stately feel. Maybe that's why visiting celebrities (Bruce Springsteen, Michael Jordan, Billy Joel) flock to its sofas and armchairs. Or maybe it's the signature martinis (stiff and serious, even in the more frivolous forms such as the green apple) and warm nut mix that keeps them coming back for more. 200 Boylston St., Boston, MA fourseasons.com/boston/dining/the_bristol_lounge.
Franklin Cafe
No need to consult with a wardrobe stylist when prepping for a classy date night at the Franklin. Just come as you are, slide into a black leather booth, and let the low lighting, art-covered walls, and excellent wine list loosen you up. From there, the food—spicy marinated cucumbers, cornmeal-crusted catfish, and smoky spareribs—will put anyone in the mood. 278 Shawmut Ave., Boston, MA 2118, franklincafe.com.
Mexico Lindo
Assuming the hyperfestive décor at this family-owned joint hasn't already knocked you on your heels, there's no doubt the powerful, wide-ranging flavors will. Surrounded by a rainbow of serapes and folk art furniture, diners are primed with homemade chips and salsa (and usually some high-test margaritas) before getting down to business. Mole is among the strong suits here, as is anything doused with the bright chili verde sauce. Bonus points for solid vegetarian choices, and lunch specials that pack dinnertime heft. 449 Main St., Melrose, MA 02176-3837, .
Gallagher-Christopher Antiques
Even minimalists find joy in this boutique that flouts the typical dusty, cluttered antique shop. Gallagher-Christopher's selection includes 19th-century English dressers, early-20th-century lighting, and art deco chairs, along with the store's own new Hermes-esque orange lacquer boxes that, if not yet technically antiques, certainly deserve heirloom status. 84 Chestnut St., Boston, MA 2108, .
Yale Electric
For those who prefer to spend most of their days in the kitchen, Yale is nothing less than the source of all life on earth. For the rest of us, it's simply a fabulous resource where state-of-the-art electric walls flank Sub-Zero wine fridges. From contemporary to American rustic to stainless steel, it's all functional, cutting edge, and stylish enough to make just about anyone stay in the kitchen. 296 Freeport St., Dorchester, MA yaleappliance.com.
Bistro Zinc
High on arts, low on nightlife, Western Mass. was never known for its cocktail scene. At least, not until Zinc arrived. Every night, Berkshire sophisticates and tourists mingle beneath a dented tin ceiling at the polished zinc bar for after-(insert-cultural-activity-here) drinks, choosing from among 10 martinis, 10 signature cocktails, and 14 wines by the glass. 56 Church St., Lenox, MA 2140, bistrozinc.com.
Coolidge Corner Theatre
The sad fact is that big corporate multiplexes show big corporate movies. Truly, you are what you screen. Which makes Brookline's Coolidge Corner Theatre an art-house jewel among the plastic giants. This 75-year-old, not-for-profit space boasts a classy schedule of documentary, international, and independent movies. The Coolidge also keeps a hand in the community by hosting readings, live performances, and film festivals. 290 Harvard St., Brookline, MA coolidge.org.
Kendall Square Cinema
Enjoying the artistry of independent cinema doesn't have to mean enduring drafty old theaters. The Kendall Square is as state-of-the-art as any megaplex, but with niche amenities like baked goodies from Dancing Deer Baking Company and green tea. Sure, the tickets and concessions are a little pricey, but inside the nine intimate Dolby Digital Surround EX theaters, the seats are comfy and come equipped with cup holders. Cheap parking and a convenient shuttle from the MIT-Kendall Square T stop make getting there a cinch. One Kendall Square, Cambridge, MA landmarktheatres.com/market/boston/kendallsquarecinema.htm.
Coolidge Corner Theatre
This Brookline landmark sure knows how to draw 'em in. While other art houses are content dishing out classics, these guys go right for the guts, with events like Annie Sprinkle's Herstory of Porn: Rell to Real, Spike and Mike's Sick and Twisted Animation Festival, the New England Film & Video Festival, and even a summer jazz series. They've got a new lease under negotiation, a new spirit, and a fresh pot of coffee brewing for late-night shows. 299 Harvard St., Brookline, MA .
Coolidge Corner Theatre
Since 1933, this not-for-profit theater has boasted a diverse schedule of international and independent movies and documentaries. Modern indie films; broadcasts from London's National Theatre and Europe's grand operas; big-screen classics; midnight cult films and sing-alongs; and weekend variety shows for the kids—it's all here in an art deco theater with retro appeal. The Coolidge also keeps a hand in the community by hosting readings, live performances, and film festivals. 290 Harvard St., Brookline, MA 2446, coolidge.org.