My Heart is in San Francisco

{CAVALIA}

2010-11-14T21:09:00.001-08:00

Back in San Francisco! Just in time for the Holiday Season Cavalia will run from November 16Th to December 12Th. I have been invited to the opening night and cant wait to see it! This time over sixty magnificent horses on stage raising the bar for an spectacular entertainment. Check it out!

{PERFECT TABLE SETTING}

2010-11-11T07:15:00.000-08:00

Having fun while browsing for few ideas for the perfect table setting for the upcoming Holiday Season! I found this gorgeous pictures ... Hope you enjoy them and get some inspiration as well!

Gold is such a lovely alternative. It has a warmer feeling and the table designed by Carolyne Roehm above and top has a beautiful mix of colors that adds to that warmness.

For those who prefer darker colors, this table from Ralph Lauren Home mixes gold, silver and black that would be perfect for a more masculine setting.

There is a simple elegance to this table setting that I absolutely love!

This table also doesn't worry about matching china or flatware and as you can see, there are actually two tables. A few smaller tables sometimes with less people make for a better party than one big long table. For fun, you can have people change seats between courses.

{SILVER LINING}

2010-11-08T08:00:00.000-08:00

I am in love with these silver tins for my sugar or coffee. But while I'm wishing I thought I'd throw in the treats tin. I love treats and I would love even more to have a pretty tin to put them in. And then, of course, why not a toast rack because everyone needs one of those. Toast and tea, there is nothing better, in my opinion, except maybe a little butter and jam on the toast.

Have a great week!

{Bonjour ... Ladurée in NYC! }

2010-11-07T20:40:00.000-08:00

These gorgeous ceramic candles from the famed Parisian pastry icon Ladurée are finally available in the USA exclusively at Aedes de Venustas in NYC. Yummy flavors include Caramel au beurre salé {caramel with salted butter}, Mille et Une Nuits {a spicy, woodsy scent}, date, Fleur de Oranger, violet, Mimosa, and many more. Almost as tasty as a macaron!

And, the boxes are almost as pretty as the ceramic pots. So, if you can't make it to Paris for a macaron, visit Aedes de Venustas here and treat yourself to a pretty candle!

{HAPPY HALLOWEEN}

2010-10-30T13:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween! It is fun to play around and use our imagination ... This year I am loving the shades of hazy blue and gold.

{FALL TABLE IDEAS}

2010-10-29T01:08:00.000-07:00

Some fabulous ideas for your upcoming parties ... Cant wait to host my next dinner party and use some of these gorgeous settings. Just another example that we do not need to break the bank while entertaining ... Lets use what we have at home and a little imagination.

{THINKING OF PAULETTE}

2010-10-23T00:09:00.000-07:00

Have you tried these yummy macaroons from Paulette in San Francisco yet? (located in Beverly Hills too.) They carry a dozen flavors from lemon, caramel pecan, Colombian to Madagascar vanilla, Sicilian pistachio, and sweet wedding almond. And not to mentioned that they carry one of the best selections of my favorite tea Marriage Freres! ... And the packaging is so cute too!

Located at 437 Hayes St, San Francisco

{BENU ... FINE DINING REDEFINED}

2010-10-20T17:16:00.000-07:00

The wait is over. San Francisco's most hotly anticipated new restaurant recently opened its door with seasoned Chef Corey Lee (world-renowned Chef Thomas Keller protege) at the helm. Benu is the culmination of Lee's 15-year experience working at some of the most highly acclaimed restaurants in the world, including nearly nine years with Chef Keller as Chef de Cuisine at the French Laundry and as a Sous Chef at New York's Per Se. Benu distills fine dining down to the elements most relevant to modern diners: exquisite ingredients, unique flavors, precise technique an caring service. Defining subtle sophistication, Benu offers inspired, progressive American cuisine in a historic, cleanly design space that is sleek, contemporary and elegant.

The tasting menu varies between eight and 12 courses, reflecting seasonality, inspiration and evolution.

22 Hawthorne St

(415) 685-4860

{... DARIOUSH}

2010-10-15T13:22:00.000-07:00

I am so excited about my weekend! October marks the most exciting time in the Wine Country_ Crush, when grapes are picked, sorted, crushed and turned into wine. I will be spending a few days there enjoying the grape crush festivities and attending to some special wine tastings.

I am thrilled to visit my friends at Darioush, which is one of my favorite wineries, they will be hosting a "By Invitation Only Experience", a 120 minute tasting experience crafted for connoisseurs and hosted at the owner Darioush Khaledi’s private cellar. Our host will pour their Crown Jewel, Darius II to be tasted alongside with Darioush Signature Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. Small, exquisite food bites, prepared by the Khaledi’s private chef will complement the yummy tasting.

Cheers!

{DESIGN, WINE & DINE}

2010-10-11T00:07:00.000-07:00

Join the Kitchen Design and Epicurean Event of the Season. Live cooking demos by Tyler Florence, Alain Roby and many more. Complementary design workshops, seminars, cocktail parties and panel discussions. The full size, built-out working dream kitchen will be surrounded by outdoor dining and living spaces featuring beautiful and provocative custom furnishings, flooring, fine art, and antiques. Designer and chef competitions and Festive cocktail receptions - all in an entertaining and interactive forum.

Proceeds from the event will provide scholarships to Bay Area interior design students. Scholarships will be awarded through the Design Trade Resources Association, a showroom-based trade organization comprised of San Francisco Design District showrooms.

October 19, 20, 21, 2010
San Francisco Design Center
Galleria Atrium
101 Henry Adams Street
San Franciso, CA

{HIGH FASHION MEETS HIGH DESIGN} ~ SAN FRANCISCO FALL ANTIQUES SHOW

2010-10-10T23:01:00.000-07:00

The San Francisco Fall Antiques Show is the oldest continuously operating international antiques show on the West Coast. The Show features approximately seventy dealers from across the United States and Europe, offering for sale an extraordinary range of fine and decorative arts representing all styles and periods including American, English, Continental, and Asian furniture, silver, ceramics, glass, jewelry, rugs, textiles, paintings, prints, and photographs.

Benefiting Enterprise for High School Students the show is vetted in cooperation with the Antiques Dealers Association of California to ensure the highest quality merchandise.

Oct 28-31, Fort Mason Center, San Francisco

{STATE-OF-THE-ART}

2010-09-24T23:40:00.000-07:00

California's favorite museums are dusting off to prepare for treasures old and new.

The 125 year old Crocker Museum in Sacramento reopens next month, October 10th, after tripling in size- making room for more blockbuster exhibitions. In S.F., the SFMOMA has brought on Norwegian architecture firm Snohetta to helm its $250 million expansion project. Following a national search, Berkeley's BAM/PFA selected Diller Scofidio + Renfro to design its new complex, targeted for 2014 completion. Beginning in 2013, The Autry in L.A. will gradually open 25,000 square feet of additional gallery space. And if that isn't enough to fill your culture calendar, the Eli and Edythe Broad Museum has been greenlit for construction in Downtown L.A.

{POST-IMPRESSIONIST MASTERPIECES AT DE YOUNG}

2010-09-16T11:50:00.000-07:00

This fall, directly from the Musee D'orsay 120 late Impressionist paintings by artist including Van Gogh, Gauguin, Cezanne, Renoir, Toulouse-Lautrec and Seurat will be on view in San Francisco.

The de Young will be the only museum in North America to host this celebrated collection rarely seen outside of France. From September 25th - January 18th, 2011

{WINE, DINE & EXPLORE}

2010-09-07T10:47:00.000-07:00

This is great news! now you can discover the Academy of Sciences and its world-class exhibits on a guided tour after the museum closes to the public every Sunday. Enjoy an exclusive wine reception, an in-depth look at selected exhibits, a visit to the Academy's rare gems and minerals collection, followed by a delicious three-course dinner in the famous Moss Room

The California Academy of Sciences is San Francisco's premier science museum, located in Golden Gate Park and dedicated to exploring, explaining and protecting the natural world.

For reservations or to inquire about other tours, visit here

{TOMALES BAY RETREAT ...}

2010-09-03T22:23:00.000-07:00

September is always busy and hectic month for me so I am looking forward to stay here pretty soon and relax at this waterside beautifully furnished chalet located in Marin County, The Poet's Loft, complete with hot tub, wood-burning stove, boat dock and sweeping views of Tomales Bay and Point Reyes Peninsula.

{I LOVE NEW YORK}

2010-08-23T22:57:00.000-07:00

There are some many lovely restaurants in NYC that I am looking forward to my trip at the end of September and try some of the new spots and hopefully if weather permits dine al fresco.

{THINKING OF ROME ...}

2010-08-16T22:34:00.000-07:00

Rome is absolutely one of my favorite cities to visit, I have been lucky to been there twice but since I saw Eat, Pray, Love this weekend with my girlfriend Lisa can't stop thinking about eating, cooking and traveling in Rome. Let's go!

I would like stay at the Hastler again and will love try all this new restaurant recommendations from the New York Times:

Antica Pesa, Via Garibaldi, 18. A combination of traditional and more modern food. Supposedly a celebrity haunt, but it seemed pretty down-to-earth.
Giolitti, Via Uffici del Vicario, 40. An old classic for gelato. Try the rice and chocolate flavors.
Le Mani in Pasta, Via dei Genovesi, 37. Off the beaten track in Trastevere, but worth the trip. Mostly locals, and excellent food.
Pierluigi, Piazza dé Ricci, 144. Really popular and good for people watching.
Roscioli, Via dei Giubbonari, 21. Really fabulous bakery and restaurant for lunch or dinner. If you go at lunch, they will bring out a big thing of risotto — and within minutes it’s gone.
San Crispino, Via della Panetteria, 42. For inventive, modern gelato.
Sangallo ai Coronari, Via dei Coronari, 180. More creative cuisine combined with traditional. Nice patio.

Cooking Classes: Italian Gourmet

Wine Tasting: Vino Roma

Outdoor Market: Campo dei Fiore

Ciao!!

{FUN PACKAGING}

2010-08-10T22:07:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for a new and different way to bring your picnic next time, check this out Boxsal has made it easy with their cool picnic boxes disguised as briefcases, boom boxes and works of art. Each box contains compostable dinnerware and utensils and is just waiting to be filled with the fun food items of your choice.

{MONTEREY JAZZ FESTIVAL} SEPTEMBER 17-19, 2010

2010-08-01T10:19:00.000-07:00

For three nights and two days, the oldest continuous jazz festival lives on - lavishly. With 85 performances serenading 2 acres of Monterey Fairground, this edition is anchored by standouts such as Chick Corea, Dianne Reeves, Harry Connick Jr. and Roy Hargrove.
For more information visit www.montereyjazzfestival.org

{CLIFF HOUSE ... THE PERFECT VACATION SPOT}

2010-07-12T12:28:00.001-07:00

I've started my Monday browsing and wondering about homes, decor and great vacations spots, I found this gorgeous place tucked in the cliffs of India overlooking the Arabian Sea it is a unique home that looks modern, relaxing and beautiful.

Enjoy!

{EASY SUMMER ENTERTAINING IDEAS}

2010-07-09T22:41:00.000-07:00

I made these yummy Fruit Kabobs for a get together last week where I was suppose to bring a fruit tray. They are super easy to make.. just get your favorite fruits and cut them up and put them on a skewer.

A bottle of icy vodka makes a dramatic bar decoration when it's encased in a frozen layer of colorful flowers and fruit.
Place a full bottle into a fully opened cardboard half-gallon milk carton. Insert flowers or thinly sliced fruit (we've used nasturtiums, lemons, and limes) around the bottle, filling one third of the carton. Pour water into the container, just covering the fruit and flowers. Place the carton upright in the freezer. When the liquid is completely frozen, add another layer of fruit and very cold water, and freeze. Repeat, filling and freezing a third of the carton at a time, which prevents all the fruit and flowers from floating to the top until the water reaches the bottle's neck. Remove from the freezer when it's time to serve the vodka: Cut away the milk carton with a utility knife; wrap a dinner napkin around the bottle's base, and serve the vodka with slices of lemon zest tied in knots.

{ARTS AND WONDER FREE FAMILY EVENT}

2010-07-06T21:51:00.000-07:00

Target is sponsoring free admission to six top San Francisco museums with an emphasis on family-friendly programming: Friday evening ballet performances at the de Young in honor of Degas’s paintings, Saturday storytelling at the Asian Art Museum, and a free entry to Zeum children’s museum and a world music dance party for kids at the Yerba Buena Gardens on Sunday. Even for adults, the chance to hop for free from SF MOMA, to the Contemporary Jewish Museum and the Museum of the African Diaspora, all located downtown within blocks of each other, is not to be missed.
July 16-18, Friday free at the de Young, Saturday free at the Asian Art Museum, the rest are free on Sunday.

{SFMOMA, CALDER TO WARHOL}

2010-06-27T20:04:00.001-07:00

June 25 - September 19, 2010 Introducing the Fisher Collection

A few months a ago, SFMOMA announced an unprecedented partnership to house and display the collection of Gap founders Doris and Donald Fisher — more than 1,100 works by iconic 20th century artists — in a new museum expansion. Calder to Warhol provides a glimpse into SFMOMA's future. This sweeping exhibition showcases the quality of the Fisher Collection, much of which has never been seen by the public. The Fishers collected the artists they loved in depth, purchasing extensive groupings of seminal works. The entire top two floors of the museum, including the Rooftop Garden, feature more than 160 paintings, sculptures, photographs, and video works by Alexander Calder, Chuck Close, Anselm Kiefer, Roy Lichtenstein, Agnes Martin, Gerhard Richter, Cy Twombly, Andy Warhol, and many more.

Cant wait to visit it!

{ENTERTAINING WITH BUBBLY}

2010-06-24T18:18:00.000-07:00

With 4th of July and a few other summer events coming up, just thought to share some facts about entertaining with champagne.

Quantities:

A 750 ml bottle of sparkling wine contains five to six glasses
1 bottle for every six people for a toast only
1 bottle for every three people for a two-hour reception
1 bottle for every two people if sparkling wine is served exclusively through the reception and lunch or dinner

Glassware: Sparkling wine shows best in flutes or "tulip" glasses, which show off the bubbles and concentrate the aroma

Temperature: 42 degrees is aid to be the ideal temperature for serving sparkling wine - chill the bottled for an hour in the refrigerator, or fill a bucket with ice and water and allow the bottle to chill submerged for about 20 minutes (adding salt to the water lowers the temperature and chills the wine faster)

Opening: To open like a pro, the cork should be eased out of the bottle with a controlled "sigh" Point the bottle away from people and hold the cork and neck of the bottle in one hand while loosening the wire cage with the other hand, keeping your thumb on top of the cork at all times. Hold the cork firmly and twist the bottle (not the cork) - et Voila!

Cheers!!

{LE CARRE HERMES}

2010-06-20T21:28:00.000-07:00

To any fashionista, the Hermès carré-or scarf, I should say—is an iconic symbol of luxury and style. The House of Hermès has turned these wearable pieces of art into a stunning book which pays tribute to the famous carré: “ Le Carré Hermès” published by Les Editions du Regard.

Written by fashion and art writer Nadine Coleno, ‘Le Carré Hermès‘ is a gorgeous coffee table book that documents the history and development of the Hermès carré since its inception in 1837.

The book has 320 pages featuring over two hundred photos of the most popular Hermès carrés. A limited luxury edition of the book is being offered which features gilded gold pages and is bound in the silk scarf "Quadrige".

The book is a fabulous gift for lovers of the iconic scarf (and who isn't?!) With a release date of July 15th, the book can be pre-ordered now on Amazon.

{NEW KID ON THE BLOCK}

2010-06-15T19:00:00.000-07:00

The Burritt Room at the new Crescent Hotel has only opened a few weeks ago and its becoming a popular spot for those around Union Square ...
Kevin Diedrich, Bar Manager (a veteran of Bourbon & Branch) designed the drinks. I love the red velvet bar stools, the spooky white piano and the exposed brick walls, dimly lit by chandeliers. The perfectly balanced Kerouac Cocktail, a mixture of reposado tequila, Aperol, Cointreau and grapefruit and lemon juices is a great way to start the night. Each drink is only $10, and the descriptions are written up like old-fashioned recipes ... It is a must to stop by!

417 Stockton Street

San Francisco

{A MUST HAVE ...}

2010-06-14T11:27:00.000-07:00

I'm definitely getting one of these custom calligraphy rubber stamps by primele...so gorgeous and easy to use! Great for mailing all sorts of correspondance and party invitations!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/Primele

{GIVE ME A BREAK ... LAS VENTANAS POR FAVOR!}

2010-06-11T13:28:00.000-07:00

After a fairly stressful week, I'm dreaming of a holiday! Las Ventanas al Paraiso looks exactly like the kind of place I need right now!

http://www.lasventanas.com/

{ITS ALL ABOUT THE INVITATION...}

2010-06-06T12:28:00.001-07:00

Recently a lot of people have been asking. “How do I start the party planning process?” In my experience the easiest thing to do is to find one thing that you love. It could be a color, flower, antique, pattern…really anything. If you have a focus point then it becomes a natural starting point and things start falling into place. This also helps you avoid the trap of buying a little here and there and then ending up with way to much stuff that doesn’t really present a cohesive theme.

If you have been doing a little brainstorming and that one item seems to be escaping you, then start perusing some invitations. Invitations are a great source of inspiration.

At InvitationBox.com you can find a colorful array of cards for all different occasions. If you have a party in your near future, this could be a great place to start!

{SUCCESS YOU WEAR IT WELL}

2010-06-03T11:46:00.000-07:00

The Fifth Annual Gala of Dress for Success is almost here! Join the evening celebrating and supporting this great organization that focused exclusively in women providing stylish professional attire, a network of support, and career development tools to help them thrive in work and in life building careers and improving the quality of life for their children and families.

Where: City Club of San Francisco

When: June 10th
Tickets from $100

Buy your tickets at http://www.dressforsuccess.org/

{HELLO JUNE...}

2010-06-01T11:35:00.000-07:00

In the blink of an eye, June has officially arrived! Dreaming of long, lazy days spent outside... picnics with lemonade, dining outdoors, freshly picked berries and cherry pies, lying in the shade under a sweet-smelling fruit tree. Doesn't it all just sound wonderful? This is why I love Spring and Summer so much... If only the weather cooperates in San Francisco...

{COUTURE SEATING}

2010-05-20T12:15:00.000-07:00

Loving the couture slipper chairs from interior designer Suzan Fellman's Reserved Seating Collection. Each chair frame is upholstered in a variety of vintage designer scarves (think Chanel, YSL, Norell), so no two are ever alike. The chair's modern, flared lucite legs keeps the mood chic and light and doesn't compete with the gorgeous, bold patterns. Like it?

{INSIDE THE DECORATOR SHOWCASE}

2010-05-18T12:58:00.000-07:00

Marsh & Clark Design transforms a third-floor attic bedroom into a tranquil nursery for triplets at the 2010 San Francisco Decorator Showcase...the award-winning interior design firm brings its signature sustainable elegance and careful attention to detail to create a modern nursery for a modern family...Color, scale and subtle repetition of form conspire to create a cozy cocoon for relaxing and bonding with babies. “A baby's room ought to be the happiest place in the house – doubly (triply so) when it’s a room for triplets,” said Chiya Ewald, Marsh & Clark. “We wanted to go beyond the deluge of duckies and primary colors to create a beautiful and innovative room that that appeals to modern parents’ aesthetics and sensibilities.” I love their design approach and agree that much thought and consideration should go into the overall feel of a baby's room, in addition to making it look amazing.

{BIRTH OF IMPRESSIONISM: MASTERPIECES FROM THE MUSEE D'ORSAY!}

2010-05-11T08:50:00.000-07:00

We are feeling lucky in San Francisco, the de Young is proud to be the only museum in the world to present special exhibitions from the Musée d’Orsay in Paris. The first exhibition, Birth of Impressionism: Masterpieces from the Musée d’Orsay, debuts at the de Young on May 22 and runs through September 6, 2010.

Birth of Impressionism: Masterpieces from the Musée d’Orsay presents nearly 100 magnificent works by the famous masters who called France their home on the 19th century. The exhibition begins with paintings by the great academic artist Bouguereau and the arch-Realist Courbet, and includes American expatriate Whistler. Manet, Monet, Renoir, and Sisley are showcased with works dating from the 1860s through 1880s, along with a selection of Degas’ paintings that depict images of the ballet, the racetrack, and life in the Belle Époque.

During this time also visit the Legion of Honor to see a special exhibition that provides context and heightens the understanding of Birth of Impressionism. Impressionist Paris: City of Light, on view from June 5 to September 26, 2010, transports museum visitors to Paris circa 1874 as represented in over 150 prints, drawings, photographs, paintings, and illustrated books from the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco and several private collectors.

Cant wait to visit the exhibit ... don't miss it!

{SAN FRANCISCO DECORATOR SHOWCASE}

2010-04-30T12:19:00.000-07:00

3450 Washington Street (between Walnut and Laurel Streets)

The 2010 San Francisco Decorator Showcase will run from Saturday, May 1 through Memorial Day, Monday, May 31. The home is open to the public Tuesdays through Sundays, and closed on Mondays (except for Memorial Day). The hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday and Friday; and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday and Memorial Day.

Every Friday evening there will be a fun event. For more information, visit www.decoratorshowcase.org

{OPENING DAY ON THE BAY} APRIL 25

2010-04-19T08:34:00.000-07:00

Spring in San Francisco means it's time to raise the sails. Held annually the last Sunday in April, Opening Day on the Bay officially heralds the first day of the San Francisco Bay sailing season. Hundreds of boats participate in the maritime parade. kicked off by a morning blessing near Tiburon. The procession wraps around the city's edges, giving everyone a chance to see the ships in all their glory.

{GINGER SNAP}

2010-04-16T10:51:00.000-07:00

You have to try this variation of the classic Cuban Mojito, it is the most delicious drink I had ever had. The cocktail is made with a mixture of muddled mint, ginger, lime juice and light rum; the taste is sweet and complex and wonderfully addictive. Perfect for a spring evening, I strongly recommend you try one this weekend.

Ginger Mint Mojito
(makes one)

10 mint leaves
1/2 teaspoon minced ginger
1/2 teaspoon raw sugar
1 ounce sparkling water
1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
2 ounces of light or white rum
1/2 ounce lime-ginger syrup
lime wedges and mint to garnish
Place the mint and the ginger in a low ball glass along with the sugar. Muddle the ingredients together to form a thick paste.
Add the carbonated water and combine. Add the lime juice, rum and syrup and combine. Add ice cubes to fill the glass and garnish with mint and lime.

Lime-Ginger Syrup
1 cup fresh squeezed lime juice
1 cup raw sugar
1/3 pound of ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
In a small sauce pan, bring the lime juice to a boil. Add the raw sugar and ginger and cook for 2 minutes. Transfer to a blender and puree. Put pureed mixture through a sieve and refrigerate. Keeps for one week in the refrigerator.

Enjoy! Happy Weekend!

{JAVA APPRECIATION}

2010-04-15T11:07:00.000-07:00

I am enjoying the seasonal switch from hot to iced coffee - is anything better?

{TOAST OF THE TOWN}

2010-04-14T23:37:00.000-07:00

Experience Wine Enthusiast's Toast of the Town, America's premier wine and restaurant tasting event. Sample over 500 world-class wines, while savoring the culinary creations of San Francisco's finest restaurants, at the beautiful War Memorial Opera House.

April 22
5pm - 7pm (VIP Tasting)
7pm - 10 pm (Grand Tasting)

Reserve now! Call 800-847-5949
http://www.toastofthetown.com/

{BLACK & WHITE BALL 2010}

2010-04-12T23:18:00.000-07:00

The very anticipated party of the year. The Black & White Ball 2010 will be an evening of music, food, and dancing in San Francisco's Civic Center on Saturday, May 22, 2010, benefitting the San Francisco Symphony. Performances by Tony Bennett & K.D. Lang. Get your tickets now!!

http://www.sfsymphony.org/bwball

(415) 503-5500

{HAPPY EASTER} ... FLORAL TABLES

2010-04-02T13:53:00.000-07:00

Easter is one of my favorite holidays where I get to decorate my home with beautiful flowers everywhere and I found some great inspirational ideas from the pictures above for my tables. Hope you find them helpful. Happy Easter everyone! XOXO

{SWEET MIETTE}

2010-03-31T17:13:00.000-07:00

I am planning to visit Miette at the Ferry Building and get some lovely desserts for this Easter weekend! Have you been there yet? The Patisserie has an amazing selection of cakes and cupcakes, tarts, macaroons, cookies and more. All made with the finest and freshest ingredients. Believe me, even the boxes are worth the trip! One of the greatest things about Miette is the presentation. Whenever I want to buy a special "candy" gift for someone, the wonderful staff at Miette takes so much time in wrapping each little bag with care.

If you're coming to San Francisco, be sure to visit Miette. You'll love it!

http://www.miettecakes.com/

{PEBBLE BEACH FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL}

2010-03-29T09:45:00.000-07:00

Hosted on one of the most pristine strips of the coastline in the world, Pebble Beach Food & Wine celebrates 60 celebrity chefs and 250 wineries, during this unforgettable four-day event.
International acclaimed wineries and chefs together with California's regional super stars will get together to create and unbelievable series of luxurious luncheons, delectable dinners, cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, and one of the most decadent grand tastings in the country.

April 8-11
Weekend packages begin at $995
http://www.pebblebeachfoodandwine.com/

{BEAUTIFUL WEEKEND}

2010-03-26T11:10:00.000-07:00

After a very busy week, I am ready to welcome a nice and fun weekend! Have a fabulous one!

XOXO

{LARGA ES LA NOCHE}

2010-03-25T16:41:00.000-07:00

Photographed by Mario Sierra in a very impressive library for Elle Espana. The model is Ana Beatriz Barros ~ the editorial was called Larga es la Noche (long is the night).

Enjoy !

{JETSET EXTRA}

2010-03-24T10:12:00.000-07:00

I could not be more excited today to be part of the official launch of Jetsetextra.com, an all-video online travel channel and online community website.
The entrepreneur behind Teresa Rodriguez Williamson, Founder of the highly successful online travel magazine TangoDiva.com, Author of Fly Solo ~ The 50 best places on earth for a girl to travel alone ~ & Travel Expert blogger for The Huffington Post .

One of my favorites of the new site is the recent interview to Sir Richard Branson on his private Island {Necker Island} Way to go girl! Cheers!

http://jetsetextra.com/

{SPRING ORGANIZING} HAPPY MONDAY!

2010-03-22T08:44:00.000-07:00

Monday! Perfect day to start with some spring cleaning and organizing but first I have to begin with my own work space... lots of documents, paperwork to go over ... mail, old emails, magazine articles , etc. I am determined to make it a very productive and successful day.

BTW, read the article below, just found it in a stack of articles that I'll be sharing with all of you ... really valuable information, your own foodie friend in Paris!

{YOU'VE GOT A FOODIE FRIEND IN PARIS}

2010-03-22T06:08:00.000-07:00

Drawing on her extensive contacts in the French food and wine world, Wendy Lyn helps foodies and other travelers maximize their time in Paris by organizing custom itineraries and experiences.

Want to rent the perfect apartment, visit the coolest wine bars or shop where the chefs do? Searching for the hottest new bistros, the flea markets with the best prices, the most serious cooking classes or the perfect place to propose? Maybe you just love cheese or chocolate or pastry or wine and want to taste the finest Paris has to offer?

Call Wendy. Talk it out. She’ll quote you a price, do all the research, set everything up and, if you want, even accompany you, making your precious travel days as productive as possible. She’s like a human address book, GPS, Guide Rouge and translator rolled into one pretty package....with an honey-oozin' Southern drawl to boot.

Originally from Panama City, Florida, Wendy has lived in Paris on and off for 17 years. Just prior to this she spent three years traveling the globe, arranging high-end food-and-wine experiences for the wealthy members of a luxury destination club. As a result, she has a network of industry contacts that make her the foodie friend in Paris every traveler wishes they had.

“Some travelers are independent and just want a fabulous list of ideas, to get out and discover Paris on their own,” she says. “Others ask me to organize everything, from hotel and dinner reservations to foodie walkabouts and wine tastings.”

So how much? Prices vary, of course. Right now, Wendy is offering what she calls her summer special. “Travelers are short on time and expect value for money,” she says. For €150 she’ll create a personalized two-day “suggestion list” of places to go based on your wishes and budget…or you can join her on an all-day foodie walkabout for shopping and tastings.

While she can’t guarantee that what you want will always be available, Wendy does promise an experience that’s rich and tailor-made. And if you don’t know exactly what you’re after, she’ll happily offer suggestions. “Some clients have a wish list,” she says, “and others want surprises. Some order the full menu while others prefer à la carte.”

For more info:
http://www.wendy-lyn.com,
contact@wendy-lyn.com,
US number 850-303-0697
Paris number 06-77-29-60-56

{PERFECT WEATHER} HAPPY WEEKEND!

2010-03-19T11:38:00.000-07:00

In the past two days San Francisco Bay Area has experienced temperatures in the mid 70's, perfect time for me and girlfriends to enjoy a fun picnic at Crissy fields.

Happy weekend everyone!

{COCKTAIL HOUR} TIFFANY SPARKLERS ...

2010-03-17T00:42:00.000-07:00

Every once and a while Tiffany & Co. sends out a catalog that makes me wish I had endless amounts of money to spend on precious jewels... case in point – their new Tiffany Sparklers. Are these not the most gorgeous gems you've seen in a while? Timeless, chic, and to the point. I love the brightly saturated shades, set in the perfect cushion-cut.... *sigh*

{THE SHOCKING STORY ABOUT COCO ROCHA}

2010-03-15T09:51:00.000-07:00

Coco Rocha is a gorgeous stunning Canadian woman. And the April cover of Flare magazine is simply sublime. So I was shocked and outraged when I read a month old article in the New York Times stating that she was too fat to walk the runway during New York Fashion week! Yes, you read correctly, TOO FAT! Is that ridiculous or what?!!

All I can say is that if she is too big, where does that leave the rest of us?!!

Read full article: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/16/fashion/16DIARY.html

{POTTERY BARN}

2010-03-15T09:29:00.000-07:00

This is the time of year that I totally get Spring Fever and I like the fresh cover of the new Pottery Barn catalogue. Some of the Spring & Easter place setting photos that are within the pages of this catalogue are really inspiring. I love the mixture of old and new in all three of these examples. Now I really can't wait for Spring to arrive...

{SIP FOR SUCCESS}

2010-03-13T10:17:00.000-08:00

$100 Individual Ticket

$700 Table of 8
RSVP by March 26th

This will be a fun event at Scala's Restaurant! A wine dinner benefiting Dress for Success San Francisco a great organization that focused exclusively on helping low income women acquire jobs, build careers and improve the quality of life for their children and families. Their private boutique is an encouraging environment that provides wardrobe and interview preparation services, employment retention programs and life management consultation.

Join the evening, help and enjoy!

{HAPPY FRIDAY}

2010-03-12T20:33:00.001-08:00

Have a nice and cozy Friday everyone! Try to stay dry!

{DINING A LA DIOR IN SAN FRANCISCO}

2010-03-12T10:11:00.000-08:00

Last month San Francisco celebrated with a private luncheon the Anniversary of Dior's First Couture show in 1947 and an exclusive preview of Dior's Bar Jackets from the Paris archives. The group of fashionable ladies were nibbling on lobster medallions and pear galettes at Pamela Joyner's residence. Brenda Zarate, Director of Dior San Francisco together with Dior Paris, Pamela Joyner, Regina Kulik Scully, Dayle Haddon and Jennifer Siebel Newson hosted the successful and glamorous luncheon on February 12th, 2010.

Andrea di Lorenzo {Global Director Ready to Wear Christian Dior}

Pamela Baxter, Jamie Chen, Gorretti Lo Lui, Dayle Haddon, Karen Watkins & Pamela Joyner

Yurie Pascarella looking so chic in Dior

Brenda Zarate & Elisabeth Thieriot

Dorothy Paige & Diane Rubin

Jane Mudge

Gorretti Lo Lui, Sloan Barnett & Deepa Pakianathan

Jennifer Siebel Newson, Pamela Baxter, Regina Kulik Scully, Dayle Haddon & Pamela Joyner

Jennifer Siebel Newson & Montana Newson

Yurie Pascarella, Sloan Barnett & Juliet de Baugbigny

Hilary Newson Callan & Lori Puccinelli

Daru Kawalkowski, Karen Caldwell & Rosemary Baker

{FRESH AND LOCAL}

2010-03-11T15:58:00.000-08:00

Loving the new March issue of 7x7 magazine with a great article about being local and consume what we have in the Bay Area. My three favorite picks are #1 the Voyage weekender, a gorgeous overnight bag from Emeryville designer Basil Racuk, in waxed calfskin red, dark brown or black, #2 tea-time accessories, a line of unbleached tea towels screen-printed with teacups, owls and clementines available at Candystore Collective, and #3 Mill Valley-based Rikshaw baby kurta and bloomers in a delicate color palette. Check it out!

{LANVIN IN NYC}

2010-03-11T14:40:00.000-08:00

Lately I've been craving to go back to NYC it is been a year since my last trip to the big apple and now there will be another perfect excuse to go maybe more often... Lanvin is opening its first boutique in New York on Madison Avenue between 68th and 69th Streets in mid June! Bon Shopping!

{VANITY FAIR AFTER-PARTY}

2010-03-09T10:30:00.000-08:00

This is one of the most important highlights of the Oscar's night, the annual Vanity Fair after-party, where dresses get shorter and stars and party goers just relax and have a great time! Here some of my favorite people ...

This is the JLo I love & adore! She is rocking this gorgeous Gucci dress next to husband Mark Anthony.

Cameron Diaz looking stunning in Victoria Beckham

Hilary Swank in Armani Privé, if you have the body please be my guest!

Diane von Furstenberg, classy !

Vera Wang in her fun own design, with Olympic champ Evan Lysacek.

{MY ABSOLUTELY FAVORITE PEOPLE ~ 2010 ACADEMY AWARDS}

2010-03-08T09:33:00.000-08:00

Demi Moore in Versace Atelier looked lovely, she was my absolutely favorite!

Penelepe Cruz is always on my list of gorgeous women, she looked divine in a maroon Donna Karan.

Sandra Bullock's gold Marchesa gown matched the gold Oscar that she won for Best Actress.

Sarah Jessica Parker in a Chanel Haute Couture dress, I didn't mind the hair being a bit too big.

Elizabeth Banks looked amazing in Versace.

I am a huge fan of Kate Winslet's style and again she didn't disappoint me looking beautiful in YSL.

Katherine Bigelow wearing YSL was the belle of the ball last night and won for Best Director and Best Film.

And last but not least, the gorgeous Tom Ford wearing Tom Ford gets my vote for best dressed man.

{HAPPY OSCAR'S WEEKEND}

2010-03-05T08:56:00.000-08:00

I have already pick my favorite movies and cant wait to watch the fabulous Red Carpet! I am also excited about having for first time ever co-host taking the stage together! Alec Baldwin and Steve Martin. Have a great Oscar's weekend everyone!

{GARDEN DESIGN}

2010-03-02T17:53:00.000-08:00

Just came across with these klismos chairs and gorgeous outdoors furniture from Restoration Hardware! the chairs are $325.00 each, there isn't anything on the market at a similar price point. They have great ideas for the home/garden & outdoors.
http://www.restorationhardware.com/

{L'ELEPHANTE LOVE}

2010-02-26T10:49:00.000-08:00

...I have always had a passion for elephants and just came across with many lovely & fun elephant chic necklaces and cuffs to wear! Cant wait to get some of them soon!

{LA PLAGE BY RALPH LAUREN}

2010-02-25T13:51:00.000-08:00

I am in love with Ralph Lauren's new collection called La Plage (The Beach) it is like being on the French Riviera! I suggest you visit the Ralph Lauren Home website http:// http://www.ralphlaurenhome.com/ for more inspiration or better yet, book a trip to Nice! Bon Voyage!

{DIANE VON FURSTENBERG FALL 2010}

2010-02-19T10:17:00.000-08:00

"I always wanted to live a man's life in a woman's body."

-Diane von Furstenberg

{SAN FRANCISCO ORCHID SOCIETY}

2010-02-18T11:30:00.000-08:00

The Pacific Orchid Exposition, the nation's largest orchid show, is almost here!
February 26-28, 2010
At Fort Mason Center
To learn more about the event, visit:
http://www.orchidsanfrancisco.org/

{PIZZERIA DELFINA}

2010-02-17T22:31:00.001-08:00

Pizzeria Delfina is one of my favorite restaurants in San Francisco for their near-perfect pizzas, fabulous wine selection and eclectic array of appetizers. I tend to be pretty stubborn when it comes to trying new things, but the pig ears with lime and chili oil were truly life changing. It’s a nice reminder that the safe choice is not always the most fulfilling. Visit their new location on Pacific Heights!

{PHILANTHROPIC EVENT TO BENEFIT DRESS FOR SUCCESS}

2010-02-16T08:57:00.000-08:00

Thanks Tango Diva Travel Blog for helping to promote this fantastic event and wonderful cause so dear to me! To read the full story and to learn more about Tango Diva follow the link.
http://www.tangodiva.com/blog/category/calendar-of-cool-events/

San Francisco’s Epi Center MedSpa Launches its Year of Philanthropy Honoring Dress for Success
by Teresa Rodriguez Williamson

Having recently been named the nation’s “Top Medical Spa” by DaySpa Magazine, Epi Center MedSpa San Francisco is renown as a luxury retreat in the heart of San Francisco’s Union Square. While the center is proud to receive such prestigious acclaim, it takes even more pride in its support of the local community.

In 2009, Epi Center MedSpa supported over 24 community groups, hosted events for 12 non-profit organizations and held six unique fundraising events. Beneficiaries included organizations that support women’s health issues, HIV/AIDS, children and families, animals, arts and culture as well as environmental causes. The center’s community partners include agencies such as: Global Green, Breast Cancer Emergency Fund, Academy of Friends, Edgewood Center for Families & Children, St. Anthony’s Foundation, Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corporation and the San Francisco Ballet.

The center kicks off its 2010 community giving campaign with a fundraising event on Feb. 16 benefitting Dress for Success, an organization that promotes independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.

“Epi Center is the perfect partner for Dress for Success,” says Maria Barrios Ehmer, community philanthropist who raises funds and awareness for organizations including for Dress for Success. “While it’s their mission to help people look their personal best, it’s our mission to help underprivileged women in our community look professional, so that they have the confidence to thrive in today’s workforce.”

About the Event

Maria Barrios Ehmer, Brenda Zarate, Beth Schnitzer, Natalia Urrutia and Francein Freer Hansen invite you to share the love! Enjoy a lovely night of great friends and great conversation. Tour the award-winning Epi Center MedSpa and learn about treatments and services.

Tuesday, February 16, 2010
6:00pm – 8:00pm

Epi Center MedSpa
450 Sutter Street Suite 800
San Francisco, CA
www.skinrejuv.com

Donate your accessories: Purses, Briefcases, Jewelries, Belts and Scarves

Please RSVP to rsvp@epicentermedspa.com

{HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR 2010}

2010-02-14T10:31:00.000-08:00

Gung Hay Fat Choy!

Today February 14, is the first day of Chinese New year 2010 - the year of the Tiger!

Tigers are physically powerful, gracious, independent and brave, they are extremely bold animals. They are friendly and loving but can also selfish and short tempered. Tigers seek attention and power; frequently they are envious in a relation. Tigers live dangerously which often leads to trouble. They are intolerant, take risks and are always searching for excitement. Tigers are also instilled with a good dose of courage. The Tiger has an overpowering attraction and is very kind and always takes on the character as protector. The Tiger flourishes by power and attention and takes advantage of all circumstances it gets itself into. The Tiger is a natural leader and loves to be the center of attention. As a rebel it goes up against authority and speaks out about wrongs in society, and willingly puts up objections. Even if you don’t agree with the beliefs of the tiger you admire his way to protest.

{HAPPY VALENTINES DAY}

2010-02-14T00:05:00.000-08:00

Anyone can catch your eye, but it takes someone special to catch your heart.

{HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME}

2010-02-12T17:52:00.000-08:00

Thanks for all the phone calls, emails, cards, facebook messages, hugs and kisses I've received today, lunching with my girlfriends was so much fun! Also a friend just shared with me the following "There comes a point in your life when you realize: Who matters, Who never did, Who won't anymore... And who always will. So, don't worry about people from your past, there's a reason why they didn't make it to your future."

I am so grateful and blessed to have wonderful people around me ... Thank you for your love and support.

{R.I.P ALEXANDER MCQUEEN! 1969-2010}

2010-02-11T12:37:00.000-08:00

The fashion world is in mourning after the lost of such an incredible and talented designer.

R.I.P. Alexander McQueen ... You will never be forgotten!
March 16, 1969 - February 11, 2010

{HEAVEN ATOP OF NOB HILL}

2010-02-10T11:59:00.000-08:00

Looking for a Valentine's Day gift for your honey or for a girlfriend, think no more and get him /her a gift certificate from The award-winning Nob Hill Spa at the Huntington Hotel. The Spa features 10 treatment rooms, an indoor infinity pool, Jacuzzi, outdoor patio, fireside lounge area, workout room, yoga studio, steam and sauna rooms, and the Nob Hill Spa Boutique.

You can enjoy from nail care services, luxury body treatments, massages therapies, facials, gentleme's services, couple treatments & packages ... I personally recomend the new seaweed leaf body ritual! You'll love it!

For Gift Certificates and Reservations call at (415) 345-2888

Nob Hill Spa at the Huntington Hotel
1075 California Street
San Francisco

{DRESS FOR SUCCESS}

2010-02-09T10:25:00.000-08:00

Maria Barrios Ehmer, Brenda Zarate, Beth Schnitzer, Natalia Urrutia and Francein Freer Hansen invite you to share the love!

An accessory drive to benefit Dress for Success!

Dress for Success San Francisco is a non-profit organization focused exclusively on helping low income women acquire jobs, build careers and improve the quality of life for their children and families. Their private boutique is an encouraging environment that provides wardrobe and interview preparation services, employment retention programs and life management consultation.

Enjoy a lovely night of great friends and great conversation. Tour the award-winning Epi Center MedSpa and learn about treatments and services.

Tuesday, February 16, 2010
6:00pm - 8:00pm

Epi Center MedSpa
450 Sutter Street Suite 800
San Francisco, CA
www.skinrejuv.com

Donate your accessories:
Purses, Briefcases, Jewelries, Belts and Scarves

Enjoy our raffle and fantastic prizes including a $50 Gift Certificate for attending!

Please RSVP to rsvp@epicentermedspa.com

Hope to see all my girls there! This is an amazing cause and a great way to give back to our community helping women to rebuild their self esteem and confidence.

{HAPPY WEEKEND}

2010-02-05T20:36:00.000-08:00

Yummy! Have a great weekend!

{LET THE GAMES BEGIN}

2010-02-04T10:14:00.000-08:00

Are you excited about the Vancouver Olympics yet? Well, I am! Not only are they in one of the most stunning places in Canada but there will be lots of great moments to watch.

And the fact that Ralph Lauren is the official designer of the U.S. Team will make this even more fun to watch!

{WHAT SHE WANTS}

2010-02-03T17:13:00.000-08:00

Tracy Reese, Scalloped-Trim Dress, $155 (on sale)
Gorjana, Petal Drop Earrings, $65
Chasing Fireflies, Giant Heart Lollipop, $24
François Dallegret, Art Breaker Paperweight, $65
Kate Spade, Kellis Pump, $285
Tory Burch, Valentine's Day Cosmetic Case, $75
Museumize, Love Paperweight, $68
J.Crew, Flutter-Flower Clutch, $128
Banana Republic, Promise Knot Ring, $25
Jess L.C., Lucky in Bed Necklace, $40

{LOVE IS IN THE AIR}

2010-02-01T18:39:00.000-08:00

{COSTA RICA}

2010-01-25T23:22:00.000-08:00

I am so excited about my impromptu trip to Costa Rica! I am leaving tomorrow for a few days in a girls trip to celebrate my very good friend's birthday ... Happy Birthday Midori!

{SAN FRANCISCO BALLET 2010 OPENING NIGHT GALA}

2010-01-23T15:33:00.000-08:00

SILVER CELEBRATION

The San Francisco Ballet 2010 Opening Night on January 20th was a fantastic evening, Helgi Tomasson was honored for his 25 years as Artistic Director. Festivities began at City Hall with an elegant cocktail reception and dinner, followed by the gala performance in the War Memorial Opera House and a fun after party. I am so glad I made it back just on time from my trip to South America.

Drew Altizer Photos

{TOTALLY IN LOVE}

2010-01-20T19:36:00.000-08:00

"You have to make a woman fall in love with your clothes." That was Oscar de la Renta backstage before his pre-fall 2010 show and YES indeed I am totally in love with this beautiful soft pink coat.

{BYE-BYE 2009! WELCOME A NEW DECADE}

2009-12-31T09:20:00.000-08:00

What a year 2009 has been! Fun times, fun moments but challenging as well, I am ready to say bye-bye 2009! Happy New Year my lovely friends! Hope 2010 brings us all the love, happiness and fortune that we all deserve!

Pictures capture by a friend and a wonderful photographer:
Tim Williamson
310-560-4770
www.tdwmedia.com

NAVIDAD IN LIMA, PERU

2009-12-22T08:40:00.000-08:00

I will be in Lima spending Holidays with family for a month! Down here is warm, very festive and already feeling so relax and happy for being with my love ones ... FELIZ NAVIDAD EVERYONE!

A LOVELY HOLIDAY COCKTAIL RECEPTION BETWEEN FRIENDS

2009-12-20T09:05:00.000-08:00

I truly love the Holidays ... its all about sharing some good laughs, some cheers and enjoying a great time and being with friends. Thank you Joel Goodrich for a wonderful Holiday party!

{CHRISTMAS WITH A CLASSIC RALPH LAUREN STYLE}

2009-12-18T23:13:00.000-08:00

"ITS THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR"

2009-12-04T06:23:00.000-08:00

Great and fun ideas for gilfriend gifts... thought it will be fun to mix it up a little ... Hope you get some inspiration!

The Obligato necklace from Diana Warner Studio.
For $50.00, your girlfriends get a feminine, delicate handmade necklace to wear and 10 Africans get clean drinking water for a year. Awesome!

Every girl wants fur this season... fur funnel neck collar from Calypso that comes in many colors even bright fuschia and teal. Or the fabulous warm Toscana shearling gloves from j crew.

Ok, by now everyone knows that I am a big fan of Diptyque ... New Diptyque's solid perfume in their two most popular scents, Philosykos (fig) my favorite and L'ombre dans L'eau (Bulgarian rose)

Feeling really generous? How about this Marni slouchy suede bag (from my own wish list) or why not a coin purse from Louis Vuitton? It's the little things that matter;)

Hoss sunglasses from VZ--they are Von Zippaliscious and only $80!

HOLIDAY DECOR!

2009-12-03T11:51:00.001-08:00

Since this year I am not having a Christmas Tree because of my trip to Peru I got inspired by pictures like the ones above and my house is looking beautiful ... great alternative for a Holiday decor!

VINTAGE ORNAMENTS!

2009-12-03T05:33:00.000-08:00

HAPPY DECEMBER 1ST!

2009-12-01T14:08:00.001-08:00

A bed piled with Holiday gifts ... Heaven!... Oh, I love the Holidays! ...
Fa la la la la ... la la la la

HELLO ... AND THANK YOU!

2009-11-23T15:36:00.000-08:00

I am thankful to be surrounded by supportive and loving friends & family... Thank you so much for the gift of your friendship! Thankful for my health, my amazing parents, my unconditional sisters, and for a comfortable and lovely home. That's a lot to be thankful for.

Wishing all of you a very Happy Thanksgiving. May you have a beautiful day surrounded by the ones you love. And I thank you for being ever-so-supportive and encouraging.

NEW FLAGSHIP CHANEL STORE IN SAN FRANCISCO!

2009-11-20T12:08:00.000-08:00

The new flagship San Francisco Chanel store located in Union Square open its doors today to the public in an space of 7,900 square foot and three floors building ... A big congratulations!

155 Maiden Lane

415-981-1550

SEQUINS ARE A MUST THIS SEASON ...

2009-11-18T12:36:00.000-08:00

Cant wait to add some fun to my wardrobe and around the house... Bling, Bling!

{HOLIDAYS SCENTS}

2009-11-17T12:33:00.000-08:00

Totally adicted to the limited edition Holiday scents candles from Diptyque ... really intoxicating! Three fascinating scents, in festive and decorative glasses...Evergreen, Roasted Chestnut and Benzoin. Available at Diptyque San Francisco, $68.

171 Maiden Lane
415-402-0600

San Francisco amfAR Gala 2009

2009-11-10T22:37:00.000-08:00

The annual San Francisco Gala took place last Friday November 6th, 2009 at the Four Season's Hotel in San Francisco paying tribute to Bay-area residents who have made significant contributions of their time, talents, and resources to benefit the San Francisco community and to help advance the worldwide battle against AIDS. The evening was a total success!

Oysters, Wagyu and Whiskey in Polk Gulch

2009-10-31T09:33:00.000-07:00

What's old is new again. Which is why you'll want to get reacquainted with Mayes, the newly resurrected oyster house from 1867, opening in Polk Gulch on Wednesday.

Today, Mayes is all spit-shined-up for you and your date—stop in for $1 oyster happy hour, or make an entire night of it. Take over the high-backed chairs by the fireplace and unwind with a few old-fashioneds and a spread of Seafood Louie or oysters or from the raw bar. If this is all a little too old school, you can enjoy some modern-day touches like sashimi and late-night dining, when the lights dim at 10pm and a DJ starts to spin.

Mayes Oyster House
1233 Polk St (at Bush)
415-885-1233

{MEDALLION STEAKHOUSE OPENS!}

2009-10-29T17:57:00.000-07:00

Gus & Bahya Murad, owners of Medjool Restaurant in San Francisco just opened Medallion Steakhouse on Wednesday October 28th, with an amazing and generous reception for their closest friends.

Medallion the hot new spot in the Peninsula serves organic grass fed steak with delicious sides, it features a sexy lounge where you can try their dye for signature cocktails and a patio that will transport you to a natural landscape with a sound of water and a waterfall that turns into a video screen at night.

And if that wasn't enough reason to try it ... there is a raw bar too that features an array of fresh and chilled oysters from near and afar.

Medallion Steakhouse

1095 Rollins Road

Burlingame

{THE ART OF THE TABLE ~A DINING BY DESIGN 2009 PRE-EVENT}

2009-10-24T22:32:00.000-07:00

A Dining by Design 2009 Pre-Event was hosted at Gump's San Francisco on October 22, in support of DIFFA'S Dining by design featuring designers Orlando Diaz-Azcuy, Martha Angus, Ken Fulk and Claudia Juestel. The designers created a wonderful display of tables utilizing some of the most prestigious brands like Hermes, Puiforcat, Cristal Saint-Louis, Raynaud, Ercuis, Alberto Pinto, Varga, Jean Louis Coquet among others.

Maria Barrios Ehmer, Claudia Juestel, Karen Tamblyn

Guest and Ken Fulk

Ken's Fulk Table Design

{CRESCENT HOTEL IN SAN FRANCISCO OPENS TODAY!}

2009-10-21T12:50:00.000-07:00

It is a reality, The group behind Crescent Beverly Hills and the infamous Cooper Square Hotel in NYC are opening today October 21st the New Crescent Hotel San Francisco today with a fresh new perspective in terms of design and execution.

Located a block north of Union Square, on Stockton and Sutter, this used to be the Allison Hotel, the partners have completely gutted and renovated from top to bottom. But consciously maintaining the original architecture of the building which is 100-years-old.

It's a typical look for San Francisco but with a modern twist.

The rooms will feature the boutique hotel amenity trifecta of flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations and best of all, complimentary WiFi.

As for the restaurant and bar, that won't be ready when the Crescent SF opens but expecting for a mid-2010 opening of the space, which will be located on second floor above the lobby and will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as 24-hour room service.

So expect the Crescent to be a little bit Beverly Hills glam and a little bit New York City cool.

http://www.crescentsf.com/

2009-10-20T08:12:00.000-07:00

The Hermès Shop Windows

Is everything from Hermès ridiculously expensive? I'm going to have to say yes. A while ago I was reading the New York Times online and found a story about Kelly Wearsler shopping for hard to find design books which included "The Hermès Shop Windows" by Leila Menchari, who has been the sole creator of window displays at the Hermès store in Paris since 1977 and what did I find if you are interested, it can be yours for $1,000. Or you could save that and put it toward a Birkin. Your call.

JUDITH RIPKA! Number One on my Wish List!

2009-10-14T22:40:00.000-07:00

Ah ... my latest obsession, a pair of gorgeous Judith Ripka earrings from the 18K Gold & Diamond Collection... Their name Olivia!

They just arrived into the San Francisco store ... totally in love with them!

Judith Ripka
110 Geary Street
415.399.1995

VIVANISTA LAUNCH NATIONAL!

2009-10-14T06:20:00.000-07:00

Layne Gray, Kimberly Miller, Annie Vranizan and Alex Skillman hosted a cocktail party on October 13th to celebrate the National Launch of Vivanista. A virtual Sisterhood where women can share best practices in fundraising and all that encompasses their philanthropic lifestyle. Congratulations!