Mexico, Travel Heather Lindstrom Mexico, Travel Heather Lindstrom

Curated Hotel: Island Paradise at Zoetry Villa Rolandi on Isla Mujeres

Following two flights and one taxi ride to the water’s edge, Scott and I were whisked away on a private yacht to Zoetry Villa Rolandi.

Island Paradise at Zoetry Villa Rolandi on the Island of Isla Mujeres: 

Isla Mujeres is a jewel of an island just a leisurely yacht ride from Cancun in the Mexican Caribbean. The waters of the Bahia de Mujeres (Bay of Women) shimmer in the sunlight with aqua to turquoise shades and appear luminescent at sunset with rose gold and blue tones.

Isla Mujeres is simply sublime.

Following two flights and one taxi ride to the water's edge, Scott and I were whisked away on a private yacht to Zoetry Villa Rolandi.

Charming Alexander, an Isla Mujeres 4th generation native and concierge of the yacht, served champagne.

We arrived at Zoetry Villa Rolandi just 30 minutes after leaving Cancun...

and following our private concierge check-in, we were in the pool 15 minutes later.

#islandparadise

Zoetry Villa Rolandi is an intimate island-style resort, composed of only 35 oceanfront suites. Our suite looked over the pool with the white sand beach just a few steps below.

The view from our balcony.

There are 2 infinity-edged pools, a world-class Thalasso spa, two gourmet restaurants, a free concierge yacht service, and a lovely stretch of beach at Zoetry Villa Rolandi.

Isla Mujeres boasts some gorgeous sunsets, like this one over the infinity-edged pool to the sea.

It also has some of the best beaches in the Caribbean.

The sand was like sugar.

If you dare leave the lounge chair or hammock,

golf carts are available for rent and are great for a day-trip around the island.

We discovered a casual beachy spot for lunch with live music. Definitely feeling like a local here.

Golf-cart-collage.jpg

After a few hours of exploring the island, you will likely be longing to get back to that pool and lounge chair.

In your suite, a fruit plate and a daily bottle of champagne await you. The chocolate covered strawberries were a gift for us as members of Unlimited Vacation Club.

evenings-out-a-Villa-Rolandi.jpg

Evenings at Zoetry Villa Rolandi are filled with twinkling lights, decadent gourmet dining, and sublime sips. The service, even poolside at the intimate Le Metissage French-Mexican fusion cuisine, was impeccable.

This spot, Casa Rolandi, was perfect for breakfast, although we often ordered breakfast delivered en suite. Zoetry resorts are luxury all-inclusive vacations, and they always have 24 hour room service, as well as a free laundry service, a nice perk after a day of travel.

Just look at that view!

Cheers to a sunny escape to Isla Mujeres!

Contact us at Curated Travel to book your luxury all-inclusive getaway.

Read More
Date Night, Marriage, Life, California Heather Lindstrom Date Night, Marriage, Life, California Heather Lindstrom

A Spring Picnic on Table Mountain

This is more of an afternoon date than date night, but I’ll have to make an exception this time. Scott and I headed up to Table Mountain in  Oroville last weekend to view the wildflowers.

This is more of an afternoon date than date night, but I'll have to make an exception this time. Scott and I headed up to Table Mountain in  Oroville last weekend to view the wildflowers.

I commute to Oroville for work so I see the big "O" on the side of Table Mountain every day. It is aptly named after a table because it is unusually flat for a mountain. You'll see.

We took the winding roads up the mountain, past the greenest hillsides I've seen in California in a very long time.

Lake Oroville is completely full. What a beautiful sight! I wonder if my friend Trish and her husband are out on their houseboat like most weekends.

Finally we arrive on the top of Table Mountain.

The flowers are blooming! These families were having such a wonderful time. I remember being fascinated with kites. My parents bought me a shiny mylar kite with a very long tail. After seeing these beauties all afternoon I realize I still am a fan.

There's my date, checking out the views.

We finally settle in for our picnic with my stylish basket created by my sister, Dorie. This was a spontaneous date so we grabbed the basket--filled with silverware, plates, napkins and wine glasses -- and picked up some of our favorite healthy vegetable bowls from T-Bar on our way out of town.

A comfy blanket, a basket of goodies, a great read, a splash of chilled rose, and a great date makes the perfect springtime afternoon.

Read More
California, Travel, Wine Country Heather Lindstrom California, Travel, Wine Country Heather Lindstrom

Getaway to Dry Creek Valley Wine Country, California

Scott and I tried something new for the updated version of our winter holiday. Though we were unable to fly to Riviera Maya due to his back issues, we decided a short road trip would be just the right idea. Wine country is our favorite Northern California getaway and we thought it would be fun to stay in a vacation rental rather than a hotel this trip. With above average temps and sunny skies we knew we were in for a sunny escape to wine country. The vibrant yellow mustard, brilliant blue skies and puffy white clouds were dazzling.

 

Scott and I tried something new for the updated version of our winter holiday. Though we were unable to fly to Riviera Maya due to his back issues, we decided a short road trip would be just the right idea. Wine country is our favorite Northern California getaway and we thought it would be fun to stay in a vacation rental rather than a hotel this trip. With above average temps and sunny skies we knew we were in for a sunny escape to wine country. The vibrant yellow mustard, brilliant blue skies and puffy white clouds were dazzling.

 
 

After a fair amount of research we settled on Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate in Dry Creek Valley. As it turns out, this was the perfect choice for a luxurious, comfortable and private "home away from home" for the long weekend. I love these views up the winding driveway to Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate. The location is excellent just 8 miles outside of Healdsburg.

We took the winding gravel path past the lemon tree, mounds of rosemary and lavender, and the beautiful pool area.

From the moment we arrived at Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate we felt instantly at home. Laurie and Robert, the homeowners, greeted us warmly, and we were directed past the lemon tree to the short, winding path beside the swimming pool, leading up to the private suite.

Laurie familiarized us with the simple details to make our stay comfortable. Luxury linens, fine furnishings, fragrant bath products and a cozy fireplace created a lovely ambiance. A Keurig coffee maker and small refrigerator made it easy to create a light breakfast or afternoon snacks, and to chill white wine. The bathroom area is comprised of two small rooms; with high end stone tiles and finishes, it is compact and efficient. The toilet and small sink are in one room and the shower is in another. There is no counter space but the glass wall shelves were sufficient for storage.

For more details on our stay read my review on Homeaway of Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate.

This view offers peaceful vineyard vistas during the daytime and brilliant stars at night. I can only imagine how wonderful a dip in the pool would be on a toasty summer day in the valley.

After settling into our suite we made the short drive to quaint Geyserville for dinner at Diavola. We don't splurge on carb-loading pizza very often, but when we do, we always hope it is good as this one. Thanks for the great recommendations, Laurie and Robert!

Following a leisurely morning with coffee and a light en suite breakfast we had picked up at the small market in Geyserville the night before, we were off to lunch at Rustic "Francis's Favorites" at Coppola Winery. In this lovely hilltop spot, reminiscent of Tuscany, we enjoyed friendly service and fun conversation with fellow diners. (PS-my purse must have fallen off the chair because I'm a bit of a germaphobe who would much rather hold my bag then set it on the ground #winecountrynocares :)

Filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola has created a unique concept around the swimming pool with cabines to rent for family days at the pool. This looks like a super fun concept for warm weather fun. It reminds me of throwback summers on the shore. For more details on pools and cabines here.

Our next stop was for a tasting at Matrix Winery. The interior is currently being remodeled into what will become a beautiful tasting room and deck, but the outdoor spaces are still beautiful. We enjoyed some luscious pinot noirs at Matrix on this sunny afternoon next to the water feature.

Scott was getting around pretty well on this day, thankfully. Maybe the sound of splashing water soothed his soul?

Or maybe it was the wine?

A spectacular day in wine country. #sunny #travel #drycreekvalley #water #asunnyescape #california #instahappy #instavideo #travelblogger #travelconcierge #winery #wines 🍷

A video posted by Heather Lindstrom (@stylemindchic) on Feb 6, 2016 at 2:56pm PST

This photo is a simply a gratuitous reminder to stick with pilates...DAILY!!!

From Matrix it was a quick trip back to the guest suite for some relaxation before heading out to dinner. Laurie and Robert's very friendly kitty (pictured above) came inside for a visit. Did I mention Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate felt like our "home away from home"?

After freshening up we were off to dinner in Healdsburg, for our second visit to Dry Creek Kitchen, of Chef Charlie Palmer fame.  We had the most impeccable service and delicious bites on this evening. The ingenious sommelier, Rolando, introduced us to some lovely wine and conversation that made for a memorable evening.  I was also happy to see that Chef charlie Palmer 'liked' my photo of our evening at Dry Creek Kitchen on Instagram.

We found the vibe to be significantly more warm and friendly than our visit here several years ago. We highly recommend you make a reservation here and talk to Rolando about wines (and life).

Another fantastic perk of staying at Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate is that Laurie and Robert graciously offered us a private wine tasting at neighboring Mazzocco Winery.

We scheduled our tasting for noon on Sunday and were lucky enough to meet Mick. He shared a number of delicious pours of Mazzocco wines, some of which were created with grapes grown at Pony Ranch Vineyard. He also shared stories of the local vineyards and the history of the area. If you visit Mazzocco ask for Mick and he will spoil you, no doubt.

Shed Healdsburg-a wonderful place to buy a picnic or dine. We enjoyed a tasty gelato.

All getaways must come to an end. Our thanks to Laurie & Robert for an unforgettable getaway to Dry Creek wine country. Thank you for sharing your lovely estate with us for the weekend. We promise, we will visit again soon!

To Stay:

Our new favorite 'Home Away from Home' in wine country:  Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate.

H2 Hotel (previous post here)

For more on Healdsburg: Getaway to Healdsburg and Getaway to Sonoma Valley Wine Country

To Dine:

Diavola 

Rustic -Francis's Favorites

Dry Creek Kitchen

Shed

Spoonbar from previous post here

Geyserville Mud Cafe

Bravas Tapas

To Taste:

Mazzocco

Matrix

Wilson

 
Read More
Marriage, Life, Date Night Heather Lindstrom Marriage, Life, Date Night Heather Lindstrom

The Fine Art of Romance (His+Her Perspective)

For me, romance is not the sweeping gesture, the dripping of diamonds or the elaborate gifts. For me, time spent enjoying my loved one [Scott] and creating memories is the fine art of romance. I also love a hand-written sentiment, as Scott and I shared in

For me, time spent enjoying my loved one [Scott] and creating memories is the fine art of romance. I also love a hand-written sentiment, as Scott and I shared several years ago.

If I have my choice, travel is my go to for celebration or creating some romance.

The Fine Art of Romance

Is there such a thing?  I imagine romance is a bit different for each of us.

What does it mean to you?

For me, romance is not the sweeping gesture, the dripping of diamonds or the elaborate gifts. For me, time spent enjoying my loved one [Scott] and creating memories is the fine art of romance. I also love a hand-written sentiment, as Scott and I shared in

For me, time spent enjoying my loved one [Scott] and creating memories is the fine art of romance. I also love a hand-written sentiment, as Scott and I shared in this post from several years ago.

If I have my choice, travel is my go to for celebration or creating some romance.

Unfortunately, not this year.

Scott and I had planned to be on our winter vacation for Valentine's Day this year. Perfect timing to be on a tropical getaway, or so we thought.

As with many things in life, when plans change, we come up with Plan B.

Disappointed...yes, discouraged...no!

We are figuring out how to bring some romance home this year.

As Scott continues dealing with ongoing back pain, we are finding different ways to create some romance around the house. It might be a soak in the tub or our re-discovered outdoor spa. It may be a whirl around the globe over steaming mugs of coffee, plotting our next travel adventures. Or it may be soaking up the unusually warm weather we are having here in California this week by dining on the patio. It will be savoring the fragrance of the first of the season tuberoses Scott found at Trader Joe's (my favorites) and there will be some moments of gratitude. Not for what we don't have this year, but for what we do have. Romance is not just about a day. It's more about how we live our lives, don't you think? I've shared some thoughts on how to keep the spark alive and tips for getting the 'sexy back' in previous posts.

I asked Scott what romance means to him this year and he decided to write it down:

From Scott: I suppose there is not a clear distinction between romantic and loving, so I'll blend them.  The last four months have included my shoulder surgery, a wonderful, quick trip to San Francisco to celebrate Christmas with "the girls" (my three daughters), a rather severe back injury with another potential surgery (me, again), and the canceled tropical getaway. Through all of these ups and downs, mostly downs, Heather has really "been there".  She was tearful just before my shoulder surgery (worried wife). She took me for a walk in the park when I got cabin fever.  She was generous, loving with my family. She has clearly felt my pain with me, she has gotten up in the middle of the night when I was in angry agony over the back pain, and she has been patient when my pain and frustration resulted in less-than-appreciative behavior on my part. Together, we have continued to find reasons to laugh intensely, and she has remained kind, hopeful, adventurous, sexy and romantic. What is romantic to me?  A woman who shows me this love when I'm far from my best.  I hope my gratitude and plans for more future romantic getaways are enough for her to feel romanced this Valentine's Day. - Scott

Following a short escape to wine country early in the week,  we are happy to be home on Valentine's Day. Scott ordered up a gourmet carry-out dinner from Bacio Catering here in Chico. Since I have been handling the load of shopping and cooking for the last few months, this is the perfect way to celebrate Valentine's Day without the hassle. I love the thoughtfulness of his gift and I'm looking forward to a gourmet dinner at home that I don't have to cook. ;)

What is the fine art of romance to you?

 

 

Read More
Holidays, Life Heather Lindstrom Holidays, Life Heather Lindstrom

A Bittersweet Season and a Cure for the Holiday Blues

With all the hustle and bustle, merrymaking and cheer, I can't help but remember that this season can be a bittersweet time for many of us.  As time marches on, most of us experience loss, heartbreak and bittersweet moments, all made more pronounced by the 'Joy to the World' surrounding us during the holidays.  There are loved ones we have lost through death or distance- lost loves, lost lives, lost homes, lost pets; and the broken hearts and dashed hopes of living life.

I know, it's not exactly cheery, but it is a very real part of life.

A Cure for the Holiday Blues

With all the hustle and bustle, merrymaking and cheer, I can't help but remember that this season can be a bittersweet time for many of us.  As time marches on, most of us experience loss, heartbreak and bittersweet moments, all made more pronounced by the 'Joy to the World' surrounding us during the holidays.  There are loved ones we have lost through death or distance- lost loves, lost lives, lost homes, lost pets; and the broken hearts and dashed hopes of living life.

I know, it's not exactly cheery, but it is a very real part of life.

I know my own holidays of years past have included a divorce, 2 miscarriages and the loss of my dear dad nearly 4 years ago.  There is nothing like spending a holiday season in the hospital with a loved one who has just received a terminal diagnosis, to break your heart into a million pieces. I remember getting coffee at Starbucks, on a brief break from the hospital that Christmas. I was stunned at how life beyond the hospital could be moving on, so merrily, while my family was in complete crisis and heartbreak, praying for a miracle.  That said, there is nothing like a crisis in your life to build compassion for others experiencing heartbreak this season.

If you, like me, find yourself having those painful, bittersweet moments or just the blues during the holidays please remember:

Take care of yourself

Whether it's a special treat, a warm bath, a massage, a brisk walk in the chill air or a bouquet of fresh flowers, self-care is the most important antidote for surviving the holiday blues.

Reach out to the open arms of friends and family who care.

If your family is far away, create your own kind of family this season with new traditions. Heartwarming movies, or funny movies, are always a mood booster. I double dog dare you to cry with sadness during the movie, "A Christmas Story".

A Christmas Story (Full-Screen Edition)

Reach out to someone else who is lonely or in need.

Doing something good for someone is always my best 'feel good' advice.

Look to the Future

As dark as times may be right now, there are bound to be brighter, more peaceful, days ahead.  If you are feeling discouraged and lonely, you never know what can happen 'around the next corner' to change everything about the way you are feeling.  Looking towards adventure is always a way to keep us focused on the next chapter, so have hope.

*I know this for a fact, my most recent "have hope" story happens to be about finding true love...at 82 years of age.   I mean it~anything can happen~anytime-so never, ever give up hope for fabulous curve ball in your future.

(*The 'have hope' love story--here it is)

If you happen to see a crazy driver, or a person dabbing away a tear at your local coffee-house, be patient.

If you are needing a cure for the holiday blues, reach out to do something for someone else.

You are not alone, this time of year is bittersweet for so many of us.

Be of good cheer,

 

Curated Travel

Images

Read More
California, Travel, Wine Country Heather Lindstrom California, Travel, Wine Country Heather Lindstrom

Wine Country Weekend - Three Day Getaway!

Wine Country Weekend

Fall is a brilliant time of year to escape to Northern California wine country. The leaves are luminescent with hues of autumn; the sky transforms into a deeper shade of blue. Scott and I recently took advantage of some time off to make our annual fall trip to wine country. Our first stop was for lunch on the patio at Solbar on the Silverado Trail in Calistoga. The food is always delicious, service is incredibly friendly and the location is unbeatable.

wine-country-getaway
wine-country-getaway
wine-country-weekend-stylemindchiclife
wine-country-weekend-stylemindchiclife

Our next stop was almost next door at Clos Pegase winery in Calistoga. I've always appreciated the attention to detail with stonework and art collections at Clos Pegase. The winery is especially picturesque in the fall season.

wine-country-weekend-clos-pegase-winery
wine-country-weekend-clos-pegase-winery
wine-country-getaway-clos-pegase
wine-country-getaway-clos-pegase

A room with a view at Clos Pegase.

wine-country-weekend-a-sunny-escape
wine-country-weekend-a-sunny-escape

By this time we were ready to head to the Hyatt Vineyard Creek Hotel and Spa in Santa Rosa to check in for our getaway.  Scott had booked us a couple of nights on Hyatt points he discovered he had.

wine-country-weekend-a-sunny-escape
wine-country-weekend-a-sunny-escape

It's always nice to receive a special welcome ...

and an upgrade to an executive suite.

wine-country-weekend
wine-country-weekend

Our suite was extremely spacious, well-appointed and comfortable with luxurious touches.

wine-country-weekend-a-sunny-escape
wine-country-weekend-a-sunny-escape

An hour or so to relax and we were off to dinner at Willi's Wine Bar, which has rave reviews from the SF Chronicle, as well as other reviewers. We used the Uber app, which is an amazing way to get a quick ride--to and from--your destination safely. Download it and use it during your next night out if you haven't already discovered it.

wine-country-weekend
wine-country-weekend

The next morning we discovered the quintessential cafe breakfast at Dierk's Parkside Cafe'. Not to brag but I have never seen a mimosa this big! The staff was friendly and fun at this neighborhood gem in Santa Rosa.  #yummy

wine-country-weekend-j-winery
wine-country-weekend-j-winery

Next we were up for some natural beauty.

A stop at the beautiful J Vineyards and Winery is always a treat.

wine-country-weekend-j-winery
wine-country-weekend-j-winery

Desmond shared some fantastic history and took great care of us at J Vineyards & Winery.

wine-country-weekend
wine-country-weekend

We were hungry by the time we reached Healdsburg, one of our wine country favorite spots, and couldn't resist Bravas Bar de Tapas. The small plates with Spanish flair and terrace dining are so enjoyable. The dish pictured is of caramelized onions over goat cheese bruschetta with drizzles of balsamic--simple and delicious!

wine-country-getaway-wilson-winery
wine-country-getaway-wilson-winery

Our friends recommended Wilson Winery on Dry Creek Road so we meandered to this beautiful spot. We were blown away by the vineyard views from the terrace, as well as the bold, red zinfandels we tasted. Scott couldn't resist joining the wine club at Wilson Winery so we will definitely be returning.

wine-country-getaway-wilson-winery
wine-country-getaway-wilson-winery
wine-country-weekend
wine-country-weekend
wine-country-weekend
wine-country-weekend

Sips....

wine-country-getaway-stylemindchiclife
wine-country-getaway-stylemindchiclife

Rose' sunset over wine country.

wine-country-getaway-a-sunny-escape
wine-country-getaway-a-sunny-escape

Back at the Hyatt Vineyard Creek, a cozy fire-pit was waiting for us.

#nightnight

The next morning, we discovered the shops and restaurants at Railroad Square, within walking distance to the Hyatt Vineyard Creek. The Omelette Express serves up a decadent and filling breakfast.

wine-country-getaway
wine-country-getaway

This trip was more of a meandering through a larger area of wine country than some of our previous trips. Our final stop was in Sebastopol where we discovered the delightful K & L Bistro for lunch. The service, decor and ambiance created the perfect foodie gem. Each town in wine country possesses a unique charm.

wine-country-weekend-heather-lindstrom
wine-country-weekend-heather-lindstrom

We lucked out with the weather in November. It was cool enough for booties and a cashmere poncho but warm enough for walking through vineyards and dining on the patio in comfort.

// < ![CDATA[ // < ![CDATA[ // < ![CDATA[ !function(doc,s,id){ var e, p; if(!doc.getElementById(id)) { e = doc.createElement(s); e.id = id; p = '//shopsensewidget.shopstyle.com/widget-script.js'; var cb = new Date().getTime(); p += '?cb=' + cb; e.src = p; doc.body.appendChild(e); } if(typeof window.ss_shopsense === 'object'){ if(doc.readyState === 'complete'){ window.ss_shopsense.init(); } } }(document, 'script', 'shopsensewidget-script'); // ]]</p></div>

Read More
Heather Lindstrom Heather Lindstrom

My Fantasy Dinner Party: Joining 'By Invitation Only'

I've been asked to share my fantasy dinner party.

Who would I invite?

My fantasy dinner party will be held in Italy and definitely somewhere near the water. I'd have to choose between Positano and Lake Como--each classic Italian beauties--and on my itinerary for summer travel

My Fantasy Dinner Party

I've been asked to share my fantasy dinner party.

Who would I invite?

My fantasy dinner party will be held in Italy and definitely somewhere near the water. I'd have to choose between Positano and Lake Como--each classic Italian beauties--and on my itinerary for summer travel in 2016.

My guests will arrive by water taxi.

I've employed a handsome driver.

We will enjoy rooftop terrace cocktails and views before dinner.

The tables are graced with candlelight

voluptuous blooms

and glowing chandeliers.

The champagne is flowing...

and I will be wearing sparkles.

My guest list:

George Clooney

I graciously invited Amal, but unfortunately she had a previous commitment.

(Pity--but this is MY fantasy after-all!)

John F. Kennedy, Jr. + Carolyn too

Princess Diana

George, John, Di and I are all roughly the same age. I think it would be fun to get the 'birthday club' together to see how we are all feeling about hitting the big 55 this year.

sofia-loren-image-stylemindchiclife

Sophia Loren - Style icon of la dolce vita.

dvf-iconic-beauty-stylemindchiclife

Diane Von Furstenberg- I love her verve and her stories.

She's a lady who dishes!

Photographer Slim Aarons to capture the magic of the party in images.

Sting- one of my favorites in concert.

He must bring his guitar but his shirt is optional.

Cutting edge chef Massimo Bottura and his wife, Lara Gilmore, owners of Bottura and Osteria Francescana in Modena, Italy for unique tastes for dinner.  I'm fascinated with his culinary talents on Chef's Table Netflix and this clip is a must see.

Of course Scott, my beloved, is my +1 for this fantasy dinner party.

And there will be dancing until the sun comes up...

George Clooney Lives Next Door?

I am so pleased to join "By Invitation Only" hosted by Marsha of Splendorosa and the other fabulous bloggers each month.

Who would YOU invite to your fantasy dinner party?

Cheers to a little fantasy ever now and then.

images

Read More
Heather Lindstrom Heather Lindstrom

Behind the Glass: An Afternoon with Artist & Entrepreneur Courtney Gray of grayc glass

To say that I had a good time spending an afternoon in the studio with Courtney Gray--the artist and entrepreneur behind gracyc glass--would be an understatement. Courtney is warm, effervescent, smart and talented. Did I mention she is hysterical? I felt like I had known her for years within minutes of meeting her. Courtney showed me around her home studio; being based at home is her practical solution for staying in touch with family life, while still having the opportunity for late-hour artistic inspirations.  Courtney is based in Chico, Northern California, and has garnered quite a following in the community and beyond.

An Afternoon with Artist & Entrepreneur Courtney Gray

To say that I had a good time spending an afternoon in the studio with Courtney Gray--the artist and entrepreneur behind gracyc glass--would be an understatement. Courtney is warm, effervescent, smart and talented. Did I mention she is hysterical? I felt like I had known her for years within minutes of meeting her. Courtney showed me around her home studio; being based at home is her practical solution for staying in touch with family life, while still having the opportunity for late-hour artistic inspirations.  Courtney is based in Chico, Northern California, and has garnered quite a following in the community and beyond.

Courtney is a fused-glass artist who uses a kiln to fuse the glass, which is later shaped over a mold. Her creations range from her initial breakout with themed night lights, to ring holders, custom wall sconces and jewelry--rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. Her favorite shades of glass are inspired by the sea. Courtney collects vintage elements--beads and chains--to create unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.

Inspiration boards always fascinate me; they tell a unique, visual story about the creator. Courtney has a few of her favorite inspirations tacked up above her work station. I spotted ornate architectural elements, luxurious textures, global glamor, surfer chic, a cozy sweater with a ponytail, a quote about hard work and perseverance...and cookies. This inspiration board feels spot on for Courtney and her eclectic mix of styles.

The wall sconces are Courtney's favorite pieces to design.  They are spectacular!  I'm just sure we will be seeing her custom fused-glass lighting fixtures in Architectural Digest magazine some day. #dreamscometrue

Interview:

*What inspires you to be creative?

I work really hard at being creative. I am more of a business mind than an artist mind, so for me, creativity is part of my job. I make time for it and work hard on it. These days there is so much more inspiration out there in terms of finding design and pattern inspiration (thanks to the internet and Pinterest, etc.) I am constantly collecting ideas that inspire my work. I find inspiration in textiles and ceramics and clothing. I try to keep up with seasonal trends and colors, but in the end, I make what I love and it usually works out for me.

*How did you get started with your form of art?

I took a glass fusing class when I was at UC Davis, just for fun. The nightlights are what really made my business take off.

*How did it feel to take the plunge and do what you love full-time?

Well, I am lucky in that my husband is our main provider, so I never had to leave a great paying job to try and make grayc glass happen. I gradually built it year after year, and then, when all of my boys were in school full-time, I decided to see if I could make some “real money” (relative term!) at it. I am happy that I am doing better than I ever thought I could with this business.

*How do you balance creativity/artistry with the entrepreneurial side of your business?

I love the entrepreneurial side just as much as the art side of my business. I feel so lucky to be able to be home with my kids, do what I love, and grow a business that brings in money for my family. I think I am doing what so many women would do if they could. Also, It is easy for me because there is a bottom line: in order for me to continue to do what I love, I have to make money.

*How do you keep your inspiration going?

I make time to research trend and color forecasting…constantly brainstorming things that “speak” to me.

*What is your best advice for someone who is just starting out?

If someone is starting out with the purpose of making money, my advice would be to know the financials of your business. And price your work appropriately. Sometimes women seem to under price themselves--maybe we are just so "damn happy" people are buying what we are making--but if we don’t price it so we can make money, we can’t afford to make it anymore.

*If you could see a celebrity/historical figure wearing your jewelry who would it be (and which piece)?

Oprah! I have always loved her and have sent my rings to the company a few times. I have not made it into the magazine yet, but they did call me back and said they really liked them. I think it is time I send some more ring samples again!

Thank you, Courtney!

Last week I had the pleasure of attending a party at Courtney's home, where her latest fused glass creations were on display. Her fans were oohing and ahhing over every piece of fused glass eye-candy.

Friends and family joined in for some tasty bites, lovely wines and some shopping. It was so much fun catching up with old friends and making some new ones.

Courtney's pieces make beautiful and unique gifts.

Courtney with her mom, twin sister and niece-true beauties!

My collection of grayc glass is growing! I was gifted the beautiful necklace by Courtney. I purchased the sea glass nightlight and fused glass ring for myself. The wine charms and ring dish were gifts from dear friends.

See Courtney Gray on the KCRA morning show.

Courtney is generously offering readers of Stylemindchic Life a 10% discount on purchases from grayc glass. Jewelry ships FREE which is a great bonus! Use coupon code

stylemindchic

at checkout.

grayc glass

Follow grayc glass on Facebook

I received a necklace from Courtney Gray and all opinions of grayc glass are my own.

Read More

The Archives