At Melody Biringer's popular Crave Parties, women gather to shop, test spa services, network, sup, and sip drinks — sometimes in their pajamas.

And this month, at Crave Holiday Shopping Parties in Seattle, Portland, and Scottsdale, Arizona, retail therapy (in street clothes) will be the order of the day. On February 27, partygoers will watch the Academy Awards in Seattle. “We’re all so crazy busy, we don’t take the time to spend with our friends unless we have an excuse,” Biringer says. “I wanted to create that excuse.” Pajama parties $35 per person, shopping parties $25 per person. Go to www.craveparty.com or call 206/282-0173 for more details, including a schedule of events. — Vanessa McGrady

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