A Bridal Brunch in Newport Beach: Roses and Rosé at Zinqué
The setting was picture perfect. The rustic table, embellished with nosegays of white roses tucked into vintage urns, laced with delicate greens, and crowned with intertwining wreaths of greens and tulips from above. The vibe was definitely roses and rosé with chilled bottles of Gerard Bertrand Côte des Roses Rosé adding a blush of color to the table. This was a labor of love and creativity as Dorie created the one of a kind tablescape and arrangements through her popular design business, Broadway Botanicals.
Roses and Rosé: A Bridal Brunch
It was a warm and sunny July day in Newport Beach and the perfect time to celebrate an upcoming family wedding with a bridal brunch. My sister, Dorie Swanson, hosted the brunch for her future daughter-in-law, lovely Caitlin, at Zinqué in Lido Marina Village. It was such a treat to catch up with this branch of my family and get acquainted with Caitlin's mom and sister for the first time.
The setting was picture perfect. The rustic table, embellished with nosegays of white roses tucked into vintage urns, laced with delicate greens, and crowned with intertwining wreaths of greens and tulips from above. The vibe was definitely roses and rosé with chilled bottles of Gerard Bertrand Côte des Roses Rosé adding a blush of color to the table. This was a labor of love and creativity as Dorie created the one of a kind tablescape and arrangements through her popular design business, Broadway Botanicals.
(Click gallery for slide show)
Zinqué was a delicious choice for this special brunch and I highly recommend it for a hip, French-inspired bite or sip by the water.
The Gerard Bertrand Côte des Roses Rosé that Dorie selected for the brunch comes in a beautifully embellished bottle, carved like a rose, and perfectly suited as a favor for guests to take as a reminder of our beautiful lunch celebrating the bride-to-be.
As you can imagine, we are looking forward to a beautiful wedding in the very near future!
Getting the Most Out of Your Yosemite National Park & June Lake Visit
Yosemite is one of California’s greatest natural treasures and a national icon. The majesty of the mountains, the proud sequoia, and the vibrant blue of the glacial lakes can also be enjoyed from the neighboring June Lake. I have a lot of experience with the area, so I wanted to share my tips for the best possible visit.
The most popular area of Yosemite is the highly photographed Yosemite Valley. Anyone who sees it can’t deny its beauty, but in the summer months, it becomes very crowded. The same remarkable landscape can be seen in its northern counterpart, Hetch Hetchy Valley, but with a more exclusive feel. Tuolumne Meadows can also be a more secluded area to visit, and the colorful wildflowers and vibrant, clean water of the Tuolumne River are a balm for the soul.
Getting the Most Out Of Your Yosemite National Park & June Lake Visit
Guest Blogger: Andrew Lowen
Yosemite is one of California’s greatest natural treasures and a national icon. The majesty of the mountains, the proud sequoia, and the vibrant blue of the glacial lakes can also be enjoyed from the neighboring June Lake. I have a lot of experience with the area, so I wanted to share my tips for the best possible visit.
The most popular area of Yosemite is the highly photographed Yosemite Valley. Anyone who sees it can’t deny its beauty, but in the summer months, it becomes very crowded. The same remarkable landscape can be seen in its northern counterpart, Hetch Hetchy Valley, but with a more exclusive feel. Tuolumne Meadows can also be a more secluded area to visit, and the colorful wildflowers and vibrant, clean water of the Tuolumne River are a balm for the soul.
To see multiple areas without strain or fuss, there are several bus tours. The Yosemite Valley Floor Tour takes 2 hours and changes with the seasons – travel is conducted in an open-air tram in summer, and in a heated coach with panoramic windows in winter.
Winter in Yosemite may be the quietest season, but the snowy splendor makes for a magical holiday visit. It’s the only time of year to view the rare and awe-inspiring firefall – in February, the sun meets the cascade down the side of El Capitan to create a 10-minute illusion of flowing lava. Besides this, seasonal activities mean there’s plenty of interest, from winter photography workshops and starry night sky events to special dinners.
The most notable dinners are at The Majestic Yosemite Hotel (formerly the Ahwahnee), an elegant and impressive building that has been graced with visits from John F. Kennedy and Queen Elizabeth II. The Bracebridge Dinner is both a comedy performance and a historical reenactment, but also a chance to visit Christmas of times gone by. The Yuletide feast is accompanied by music in the grand atmosphere of the candlelit Dining Room.
Chefs’ holidays see the best talent in the country gather to give demonstrations and cook a luxurious five-course dinner for guests. Wine-lovers may prefer the Vintners’ Holiday in the fall, where the culminating meal is perfectly paired with rare and limited-edition vintages. Naturally well-attended, these events require booking, which can be open 6 months or so in advance.
The other main, premier accommodation can be found at Tenaya Lodge. A large advantage here is the Ascent Spa, which delivers state-of-the-art relaxation and wellness in the rejuvenating forest surroundings. It’s worth a visit even without a stay in one of the deluxe suites.
A few hours’ drive from Yosemite Valley is June Lake, known as the “Switzerland of California” for its charming alpine scenery. The more adventurous can enjoy fishing, hiking, and horseback riding, but it’s lovely to simply go for a drive around the sparkling lakes and indulge in some photography. The fall colors are particularly marvelous.
It’s another area perfect for relaxing and revitalizing, given the variety of restaurants and resorts. The Double Eagle Resort offers a suitable range of spa treatments; the Spa Concierge will assist in designing the ideal package.
My favorite lodging here is a luxury June Lake rental, in a homely yet modern chalet. The rooms have every comfort but maintain a natural charm. There is privacy if desired, or the sociability of a group – the indoor jacuzzi and outdoor hydrotherapy pools are relaxing options - and it provides access to June Lake and Yosemite; there’s simply no equal in the area.
Yosemite National Park and June Lake are full of luxurious options for a relaxing and enjoyable visit. These tips are how I combine the stunning beauty of the area with exclusive sights and events. Now everyone can see why I keep returning again and again.
Guest Blogger Profile:
Andrew Lowen and his family have been a part of the June Lake community since 1968, where they now own a Yosemite Gateway Chalet. They love June Lake and are eager to share the experience with those who appreciate the grandeur that the Eastern Sierras have to offer.
Heather: Yosemite is near and dear to my heart with years of family/friend vacations there. My parents dined at the legendary Ahwahnee on their honeymoon. Thank you for sharing this post on the natural beauty of this magnificent area of California, Andrew.
The HOT List: City Guide - Chico, California
The HOT List: City Guides will feature an ‘in the know’ local sharing hot tips on her hometown. Our first HOT List features a longtime Chico resident, and one of my favorite people, Melanie Drakulic.
The HOT List: Chico
I'm excited to introduce a new series on Style*Mind*Chic Life for my Curated Travel brand. The HOT List: City Guides will feature an 'in the know' local sharing hot tips on her hometown. Our first HOT List features a longtime Chico resident, and one of my favorite people, Melanie Drakulic.
City Guide Bio: My name is Melanie Drakulic and I consider myself a local Chicoan. I was born in San Francisco, CA and moved around a bit from state to state until I was in 6th grade when my family moved to Chico. I attended Chico Junior High, Chico High, Butte College, and Chico State University undergraduate school and graduate school. I’ve been a child, a teen, and an adult in Chico and each stage has brought new insight for me about what a special community Chico really is.
How long have you lived in your city? 33 years (minus a few when we lived in Portland, OR)
3 Words to describe your city? Natural, Seasonal, & Homey
Best place to spend the night? Hotel Diamond is a historic building relatively recently restored and is in the heart of downtown Chico. It is walking distance to many restaurants, bars, and shops. There is also a restaurant and bar in the hotel that offers a fun atmosphere and live music.
Favorite spot for brunch? Nash’s Restaurant has always had a terrific brunch with bottomless champagne. The atmosphere is fun and lively for all ages.
(Mike and the kids)
Favorite place to catch a view? Monkey Face in Upper Bidwell park is a short hike that results in views of Horseshoe Lake, Bidwell Park Golf Course, and the surrounding lower parts of Upper Bidwell Park. Also driving down from Paradise, there is a lookout point where you can clearly view the Butte Creek Canyon that is breathtaking, especially at sunset.
Favorite place for a date night?Fifth Street Steakhouse is our go to for date night. It’s fun to have a drink at the bar and intermingle with the crowd of various friends we run into also out on dates. Then to be seated in their red leather booth in the dimly lit, warmly decorated dining room makes for a perfect setting to enjoy wine and a delish meal.
Describe your favorite meal in town? The Sicilian Café is a locally owned family restaurant in a unique corner of downtown. It is the kind of place you go to spend the evening, not rush through a meal. You start with antipasti, then soup or salad (they have the best homemade blue cheese dressing), your entrée (my favorite is the Chicken Americano, my husband loves the Veal Parmesan), and of course dessert ~ the homemade tiramisu!
Favorite rooftop or dive bar? Of course, Duffy’s is the town favorite. It’s a locally owned dive bar with an eclectic mix of patrons, cheap drinks, a jukebox, sports on TV, lively talk, and down to earth service. And bonus - The Pub Scouts play their traditional Irish music there three nights a week.
Best spot to workout? Upper and Lower Bidwell Park are the best free and natural places to work out. Exercise options range from hiking, running, swimming, mountain biking, roller blading, golfing, etc. There are miles of trails and creeks to explore and work up a sweat on. If you’re looking for gym action, I go to the old tried and true Chico Sports Club. It’s not fancy, and maybe a bit outdated, but the instructors are the best. They make Zumba, Pump, HIT, Yoga, and Pilates fun and calorie burning!
Favorite places to shop? We shop for food at our local co-op S & S produce and Butcher Shop Meats. They provide mostly local, organic products in a quaint and rustic shop. If we are doing retail shopping, I generally head downtown to any of the local boutiques such as Urban Laundry, For Elyse, or Made In Chico. Chico Sports Ltd. And Fleet Feet are also good for sporting and exercise shops.
Favorite natural beauty spot? I really love Butte Creek along Honey Run Road. There are several spots you can pull over and picnic and play in the water along the road all the way up to Honey Run Covered Bridge.
(Melanie - another natural beauty - enjoying the water)
(Jack and Calina walking on rock walls)
Favorite street to wander? I love to wander around the Chico State Campus for its natural beauty with its many different trees, flowers, and the creek that runs through campus. The buildings are also beautiful with the classic brick buildings to more modern designs toward the newer parts of campus. I also like to meander down the little streets between Chico State and Chico High, like on W. Frances Willard to look at the quaint and unique architecture of the homes along that street.
Hidden Gem in your city? I’d have to again reference Bidwell Park, Lower Park & Upper Park. So much to do and see. From Lower Park trails and playgrounds to Upper Park hikes and swimming at stops like Bear Hole and Salmon Hole. So beautiful and accessible.
HOT List City Style Tips: Chico has four full seasons. Your wardrobe will need things for freezing cold, rain, mid 50’s to 60’s, warm sunny days, and blistering hot over 100 degree days. We are casual chic here. Dare I even say a little Bohemian? Well, at least I am ☺. Nothing too formal is necessary in Chico.
Thanks for sharing your HOT List Chico, Melanie. I've known you for 15 years and I still learned some new tips.
Love it when you dish, girlfriend! ;) xx
You know you want to book!
Curated Hotel: A Cozy Wine Country Getaway to the Wydown Hotel in St. Helena
Wydown Hotel has a well-appointed suite including luxury linens, super plush robes, slippers, gourmet coffees and fun touches like free bottles of Izze sparkling clementine. After settling into our rustic luxe suite we opened a bottle of wine and relaxed in the cozy leather chair for two. I spotted a hefty stack of stylish coffee table books on wine country life and knew this would be a cozy way to relax after the rainy drive.
We had just one free night of a long weekend for a getaway and agreed that even one night away was worth it. I booked a Sunday night in St. Helena and, despite the stormy forecast, we were up for a quick getaway to wine country.
Wydown Hotel has a well-appointed suite including luxury linens, super plush robes, slippers, gourmet coffees and fun touches like free bottles of Izze sparkling clementine. After settling into our rustic luxe suite we opened a bottle of wine and relaxed in the cozy leather chair for two. I spotted a hefty stack of stylish coffee table books on wine country life and knew this would be a cozy way to relax after the rainy drive.
For dinner, we chose a new destination for us, Brasswood, north of town on Highway 29 on the border between St. Helena and Calistoga. Many of the staff are from well known Tra Vigne restaurant which recently shuttered its doors. We enjoyed a delicious dinner, including some old favorites like the baked mozzarella from Tra Vigne, the friendly service and a romantic atmosphere on a rainy wine country night.
The next morning, following our continental breakfast en suite, we grabbed a couple of umbrellas from the hotel lobby and walked around downtown St. Helena. This charming town is beautiful in any season. I always enjoy returning to visit since I was fortunate to live in Napa Valley during college. I worked as a nanny for a wine-making family at Pine Ridge and did a year of student teaching right here in St. Helena. I love visiting the old haunts!
sthelena-getaway
sthelena-getaway
As the morning lengthened, the skies opened up and the winds grew blustery. We made the best possible decision for a rainy day in wine country, grab a window seat at a lovely bistro, enjoy a leisurely lunch and watch the world go by!
Market is a delicious dining option on Main Street in St. Helena. The menu is extensive, featuring American Classic comfort cuisine with a seasonal, fresh flavor. The space is lined with stone walls and has a truly authentic, wine country charm. Thanks to Chelsea for the amazing service and thanks to Market for featuring my Instagram shots on their website.
St. Helena Getaway
To Stay: Wydown Hotel
This quick trip was a good reminder that even if you have only a night, booking a getaway can be just the ticket to explore, adventure, connect and enjoy some new tastes of life.
To book your romantic getaway to wine country contact me at Curated Travel.
Curated Hotel: The Sonoma Mission Inn + the Surprising Power of a Surprise!
We seem to have a number of family birthdays mixed in among the holidays. Though Scott’s birthday was a couple of days after Thanksgiving he suggested we celebrate on the holiday since we had a family dinner planned. While that was a great idea, I wanted to surprise him with a little something extra this year. On Thanksgiving I had him open a box with his upcoming surprise that read, “Pack a Bag, Birthday Boy!”.
We had a day to clean up from Thanksgiving and pack for our weekend getaway so it was a leisurely schedule. I was tempted to spill the beans on our destination, but I kept it a secret. Seeing his excitement for this adventure reminded me of the power of a surprise.
A Holiday Getaway
We seem to have a number of family birthdays mixed in among the holidays. Though Scott's birthday was a couple of days after Thanksgiving he suggested we celebrate on the holiday since we had a family dinner planned. While that was a great idea, I wanted to surprise him with a little something extra this year. On Thanksgiving I had him open a box with his upcoming surprise that read, "Pack a Bag, Birthday Boy!".
We had a day to clean up from Thanksgiving and pack for our weekend getaway so it was a leisurely schedule. I was tempted to spill the beans on our destination, but I kept it a secret. Seeing his excitement for this adventure reminded me of the power of a surprise.
We had a mixture of showers and sun on our drive over to wine country. With the early rains here in Northern California we were pleasantly surprised to see how beautifully green the fields were already. Our first stop was at St. Anne's Crossing Winery in Kenwood. This picture perfect spot is a member of the Wine Club we belong to. We had a delicious tasting with a number of award-winning wines. Next off, it was just a short drive to the famed Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn. I could see that my birthday boy was very pleased with his surprise!
For dinner we headed out to OSO, the brainchild of famed chef David Bush on the historic Sonoma Plaza. Oso was recently rated one of the top restaurants in Sonoma and I had a feeling Scott would appreciate the rustic modern feel and the foodie style menu. The small plate selection was amazing and the service was friendly, yet impeccable. We had the pleasure of complimenting Chef Bush on his success and the outstanding dining experience.
After a leisurely morning strolling the grounds and an indulgent breakfast at Sante, we headed through the countryside into Sonoma for some shopping and a Mediterranean-style lunch at La Salette.
The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn is the quintessential wine country resort. I have stayed here several times over the years but this stay was by far my favorite. I highly recommend their large menu of spa services if you have the time. The resort has recently been updated and I appreciated the extra amenities of luxurious linens and Le Labo bath products. Our getaway, and the destination, was such a fun surprise to my husband. If you are looking for a way to delight someone you love I recommend the surprising power of a surprise getaway.
To Stay: Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn
To Sip: St. Anne's Crossing Winery
To Savor: Oso, Sante, La Salette
For more on travel to Wine Country
Are you finding any places especially festive this time of year? I'm booking travel for clients and I love to hear your recommendations for holiday cheer.
All Images Heather Lindstrom
Thank you to the Sonoma Mission Inn for a suite upgrade and welcome bottle of sparkling wine.
An Invitation: Caudalie French Skin Care + Jason Wu Event in Venice Beach, California
As I was going through the mail following our summer travel, I discovered an invitation to an event for a brand of which I am a longtime fan. The event was to celebrate the collaboration between the french skin care line, Caudalie by Mathilde Thomas, and fashion designer, Jason Wu. My first thought was, "I can't fly to Venice Beach, I just got home from 3 weeks in Europe". Then I realized that Scott was already planning to be in LA for a class reunion that very weekend and had already reserved a hotel. The timing could not have been more perfect! We decided to drive the 8+ hours to Los Angeles and it was so convenient to have a car for all the stops we planned to make. We downloaded the intriguing podcast 'Serial' which made the drive absolutely fly by.
An Invitation: Caudalie French Skin Care + Jason Wu in Venice Beach
As I was going through the mail following our summer travel, I discovered an invitation to an event for a brand of which I am a longtime fan. The event was to celebrate the collaboration between the french skin care line, Caudalie by Mathilde Thomas, and fashion designer, Jason Wu. My first thought was, "I can't fly to Venice Beach, I just got home from 3 weeks in Europe". Then I realized that Scott was already planning to be in LA for a class reunion that very weekend and had already reserved a hotel. The timing could not have been more perfect! We decided to drive the 8+ hours to Los Angeles and it was so convenient to have a car for all the stops we planned to make. We downloaded the intriguing podcast 'Serial' which made the drive absolutely fly by.
The next day I dropped Scott off at his luncheon and headed off to my old stomping grounds of LA, and the beach cities, on my own. Sometimes it's fun to have a few reflective hours to yourself in one of your favorite places. I drove by some favorite spots, Santa Monica, Marina Del Rey, Playa Vista and the intriguing Venice Canals.
This swan captured my imagination. What fun to cruise the canals on a swan, right??
I enjoyed a light lunch at Salt Air, a new discovery on Abbot Kinney Boulevard, in Venice. It was just a block from the event at the Caudalie Boutique. I enjoyed a delicious beet salad and one perfectly chilled glass of rosé recommended to me. The wait staff at Salt Air was fantastic. I don't dine alone often at this time in life, but when I do, I appreciate a wait staff that is friendly and professional. I was also impressed with the fresh, tasty menu.
Next up... the event at Caudalie!
I was warmly greeted at Caudalie and given the VIP treatment. My mini-facial, performed by Regine, a french woman who now lives in New York City and travels to do personalized facials at high-end events for the brand. Regine introduced me to some new products and reminded me of some long time favorites. For the last several years I have started just about every morning with a spritz of the Caudalie Beauty Elixir. I find it's the best way to wake up my skin as well as tone and tighten.
Regine reintroduced me to Premier Cru The Eye Cream which did a number on my road trip weary dark circles and puffiness. I loved it! The Premier Cru Elixir is another brand favorite and now part of my morning and night-time routines. It firms, nourishes, brightens and adds radiance using patent technology and natural ingredients. This product blends an oil and a serum creating a double-duty product which makes it more likely I will use it.
Caudalie french skincare was founded in 1995 by Mathilde and Bertrand Thomas, college sweethearts, who discovered the antioxidant properties of the grape-vine while working at a vineyard. Their vinotherapy skin care line uses patented technologies, in luxurious, yet natural formulations to promote anti-aging and skin health.
“I believe in a greener planet and more committed cosmetics. I formulate my products for all women who, like me, don’t want to choose between effectiveness and naturalness, between glamor and ecology.”
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Read more on the story and the ethics behind Caudalie.
For more on this cool collaboration of beauty and fashion with Jason Wu:
I purchased the Ultimate Anti-Aging Set in the travel size which I highly recommend if you are trying a new line of skin care products. I'm now using the Beauty Elixir, Makeup Removing Cleansing Oil, Premier Cru Eye Cream and the Premier Cru Elixir on a daily basis. I received a beauty elixir with my name beautifully engraved on it at the event. Such a stylish memento of my afternoon at Caudalie.
I've been using my new products for about 2 weeks and have been extremely pleased with the way my skin feels. This is a quick snap taken yesterday with my beautiful best friend since fourth grade, Deb. I feel like my skin tone and radiance has improved since I started using the extensive line of Caudalie skin care. I'm a big fan!
We also made time to see this beauty, my step-daughter Lauren, while visiting in LA. We had so much fun exploring some of her favorite spots.
If you are heading to Los Angeles I have some recommendations on where to stay on my travel recommendations page.
Have you tried Caudalie french skin care?
Would you ride a swan in the Venice Beach Canals (would a glass of rose' help make your decision easier? ;)
I received an invitation to attend the Caudalie Skin Care +Jason Wu launch event in Venice Beach. I was given a mini-facial, light lunch and personalized, engraved bottle of the beauty elixir. Other purchases were my own.
