"5"^^ . "3"^^ . . "2012-11-16T00:00:00"^^ . "1"^^ . "The upscale Biltmore Fashion Park has created another reason to shop & mingle, UNION Biltmore! This cool mix of local vendors opened last weekend to the delight of many Phoenicians. I was fortunate to attend a few of the opening festivities and will definitely return again for my Holiday Shopping. \n\nTucked between Stingray Sushi and Seasons 52, this galley of 18 local vendors is sure to please even the most discriminating shoppers. The minute you walk through the doors, you are greeted with an eye-candy overload of barn wood, different lighting apparatuses and olive trees amid the center walkway. \n\nThe eclectic mix of unique Local vendors is a direct result of the partnership w/ Macerich & Lew Gallo, both looking to increase local foot traffic and to create a vibe reminiscent of San Francisco, Europe or New York City. The kiosks/shops range in size of 64 sq. ft to 500 sq ft. and include a Coffee Shop ( Royal Coffee), an eyeglass shop ( Me Myself & Eye), Frances ( a local staple that we love - http://www.francesvintage.com/), candy store ( Smeeks!), Citrine Natural Beauty Bar, Bonafide Goods ( by Clotheire ), For the People ( a modern gift and home accessories store), a news stand, The Willows Home & Garden, Whoopie Baking Co., Paris Envy, British Bicycle Company (https://www.facebook.com/BritishBicycleCompany ), Lily ( women's vintage-inspired boutique), and many, many more. There is even a restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and light dinner. Trattoria del Piero is by the owners of the Queen Creek Olive Mill and will also feature a full bar.\n\nOne of the standouts is Customatic.com, and it is also one of the smallest at only 64 sq. ft. They feature handcrafted, locally created, modern home accessories ranging from a chess set or belt buckles, to bathroom hardware and a menorah. Their pieces are imaginative and innovative. The kiosk was custom made by the The Construction Zone ( http://czphx.com) and features a large steel & glass door system that is truly one-of-a-kind. I purchased a few pairs of the locally made SLEEVIES for my fiance'. They are exactly what they sound like, sleeves. Perfect for going from the heat of the desert to the chill of a mall or movie theater.\n\nThe front and back patios of the UNION will host many social events, including a Farmer's Market, DJ's and musicians depending on the occasion. Make it a point to visit the newest addition to the Biltmore Fashion Park and see first-hand what all of the excitement is about!\n\nLindsey F. is right, whether you have $1, $5, $20 or even $100 to spend, you will find something that suits your budget or your gift list.\n\nOne last piece of advice: plan your day ahead of time!"^^ . "1"^^ . . .