![The Fine Art of a Romantic Date Night at Home [Thanks to Bacio Catering]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5a66444d017db2e6975e076e/1525654624707-WLNWLS4ULRCCXZSYDEYV/16585443_1848234005389062_5041528621743734784_n.jpg)
The Fine Art of a Romantic Date Night at Home [Thanks to Bacio Catering]
The menu for the Valentine’s Day carry-out dinner was pure deliciousness . I pre-ordered the butternut squash lasagna and Scott ordered the steak medallions with red-wine reduction. Bacio clearly laid out all instructions for heating our meal and it came together in just a few minutes. There was plenty of time to enjoy sips of sparkling wine while preparing our courses.
The Fine Art of a Romantic Date Night at Home
For Valentine's Day last year, Scott had the brilliant idea of bringing home a carry-out dinner for us. It was perfectly romantic to relax at home, without fighting the crowds, and enjoy a gourmet dinner. Flash to this Valentine's Day and we thought it would be fun to collaborate with the talented chef/caterer Amanda Leveroni of Bacio Catering again.
Despite one of the rainiest seasons on record here in Northern California, the weather was unseasonably warm which allowed for another alfresco dinner. I created a colorful table with a runner I purchased in Positano, Italy, last summer. The bold florals accented the lemon motif platter, also from the Amalfi coast. I added the flowers - roses and lilies - Scott brought home the evening before, a few candles and the table was set. Scott and I headed into the kitchen to see what delicious cuisine Amanda had cooked up for us this time.
I asked Amanda about her inspiration for a romantic dinner menu like the one she created for her customers this Valentine's Day and she dished:
"Our inspiration for this dinner? Well, that’s a tricky one. It has to be easy, user-friendly, not too complicated for someone (or 2) to re-heat and figure out. It’s the trick really with all of the items that we offer in the carryout.
When we are at your house or venue, our chefs can make it all magical. When you buy food from our retail location or a special dinner like this, we have to take into account soooooo many factors. Does it re-heat well? How does it present when it’s cold in the case? Ahhhhh! It’s such a hybrid business in the food world.
Our inspiration comes from the beautiful stuff the farmers bring in our back door. We look at what’s beautiful and delicious and build from there. We’re inspired by the many ways that we all think this meal should be shared. Shhhh! It get’s kind of naughty." - Amanda Leveroni
The menu for the Valentine's Day carry-out dinner was pure deliciousness . I pre-ordered the butternut squash lasagna and Scott ordered the steak medallions with red-wine reduction. Bacio clearly laid out all instructions for heating our meal and it came together in just a few minutes. There was plenty of time to enjoy sips of sparkling wine while preparing our courses.
Tasting Notes:
*The cheese board featured just the right balance of cheese, fruit, crackers and nuts. The Point Reyes Toma is always a favorite cheese in our house.
*The Mega Glow Greens included slices of orange, watermelon radish, sweet-spiced nut brittle and golden drops of dressing.
*The butternut squash lasagna, with velvety Grana Padano cheese, was to die for, as was the Niman Ranch beef. We shared bites and were equally pleased with our selections.
*Honey glazed carrots and potatoes infused with garlic thyme browned butter rounded out our entrees.
Bacio catering paired with Tin Roof Bakery for crusty bread and Mim's Bakery for the decadent, creamy chocolate delight that was intensely rich and decadent, so much so that we had some leftover for the next night. Mim's created our wedding cake 16 years ago and that added a special touch for our Valentine's day.
Amanda Leveroni is famous for her fresh, seasonal and flavorful dishes in the north state area and it is always a treat to see what combinations she will put together for a menu. Bacio Catering definitely understands the fine art of a romantic dinner at home.
We are hoping that Bacio Catering will be offering their romantic Valentine's Day Dinner again next year. In the meantime, you can order Bacio Biz Boxes year round or stop by the shop at 1903 Park Avenue to pick up delicious dishes to carry out for lunch or dinner. For more on Amanda's inspiring story of 30 years of fresh, healthy food and community love here.
Our thanks to Amanda Leveroni and the Bacio team for creating a romance inspiring carry out dinner for us. Just as you said, Amanda, there are many ways this kind of delectable meal can be shared. Dining at home can be most romantic, especially with a menu like this one. We agree with you, "Food is Love".
Cheers to you!
Our meal from Bacio Catering was a gift to us.
All opinions are, as always, my own.
Romance inspiring travel at Curated Travel
Curated Travel Featured on The Knot Website For Destination Weddings, Honeymoons + Romance Travel
Romance Travel
I have some exciting news about Curated Travel services. My travel advisor business is now being featured on The Knot's wedding website as a vendor of romance travel. Romance travel is big these days! It has expanded from destination weddings and honeymoons to bachelor parties, engagement parties, and even bridal shower getaways. Babymoons, rekindle moons (as I call them) and retirement moons are also hot these days. It's clear that travelers are finding fulfillment in celebrating milestones of life in unforgettable destinations.
The Link:
Curated Travel on The Knot
If you followed have Style*Mind*Chic Life blog you may remember that I received an invitation to The Knot's Dream Wedding in wine country a couple of years ago. I was honored to be invited for an all expenses paid trip to wine country to cover the wedding as a lifestyle blogger. Unfortunately, I had two events in Chico on the same day, including graduation for students in the adult program where I worked; it was a difficult decision but I had to decline the invitation. I was lucky enough to attend via live- streaming. The Knot staff sent me the professional images of the wedding so that I could blog about the event: My Invitation to The Knot's Dream Wedding in wine country.
As you can imaigne, I'm excited to be partnering with The Knot, again, for my Curated Travel services.
In my book, travel inherently has an air of romance to it.
It's all about the adventure and the fresh experience.
If you are looking to add the romance of travel to your life,
contact me below to get started.
All Images Heather Lindstrom, Style*Mind*Chic Life/Curated Travel
![The Fine Art of the Romantic Gesture [It Doesn't Cost a Thing!]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5a66444d017db2e6975e076e/1525655093153-HHG3HBVR0Y6IAEP36ZPI/Scott-and-Heather-Be-Mine-700x483.jpg)
The Fine Art of the Romantic Gesture [It Doesn't Cost a Thing!]
Nothing like my husband being gone the weekend before Valentine's Day to make me feel nostalgic and sentimental. I've been in a mood to clear the clutter and organize this winter, so I dug into boxes of old photographs and cards this weekend for a stroll down memory lane.
I was reminded of the fine art of the romantic gesture; it costs absolutely nothing (or nearly nothing if you buy a card). This is a good one. Nearly 20 years from when we first met, this romantic gesture still fans the flame around our house. The first year I started this blog I somehow got Scott to agree to share his perspective on how to make your love interest swoon.
Nothing like my husband being gone the weekend before Valentine's Day to make me feel nostalgic and sentimental. I've been in a mood to clear the clutter and organize this winter, so I dug into boxes of old photographs and cards this weekend for a stroll down memory lane.
I was reminded of the fine art of the romantic gesture; it costs absolutely nothing (or nearly nothing if you buy a card). This is a good one. Nearly 20 years from when we first met, this romantic gesture still fans the flame around our house. The first year I started this blog I somehow got Scott to agree to share his perspective on how to make your love interest swoon.
These are just a few of my vast collection of romantic cards, and notes, from my guy. They are still the first thing I would grab in a fire, so I've now taken to capturing a few of them on my camera for safe-keeping.
I would share the notes, but perhaps it's best to keep some things private--even for a lifestyle blogger. ;)
If you are looking for a swoon-worthy Valentine's Day dinner in the Chico area, Bacio Catering and Carryout has the most delicious menu for a romantic Valentine's Dinner at home.
Check out the menu for this Valentine's Day:
Curated Travel Dream Destination: Amanyara Turks & Caicos
Amanyara in Turks and Caicos features a combination of pavilions and villas which sit in harmony with the environment. The buildings have low roof lines that converge with the landscape, embracing lakes, ponds and an oceanfront setting that includes low rocky headlands and a sweeping white sand beach. The contemporary design villas have a dramatic overhanging roof line that creates shaded outdoor areas on the three terraces.
Trending: Amanyara in Providenciales, Turks & Caicos
White sand beaches, crystal clear waters, free standing pavilions and villas dotted throughout the resort.
Amanyara in Turks and Caicos features a combination of pavilions and villas which sit in harmony with the environment. The buildings have low roof lines that converge with the landscape, embracing lakes, ponds and an oceanfront setting that includes low rocky headlands and a sweeping white sand beach. The contemporary design villas have a dramatic overhanging roofline that creates shaded outdoor areas on the three terraces.
Alongside the pavilions, Amanyara embraces a select number of private Villa Homes which are available for rent. Each villa sits on more than one and 1/2 acres of lush terrain. The three, four or five-bedroom island homes are situated along the oceanfront, overlooking a tranquil pond or nestled in island vegetation dotted with reflecting ponds. Amanyara is the perfect destination for an intimate, romantic getaway or unforgettable honeymoon.
Amanyara is definitely on my travel bucket list.
Is it cold where you are today?
I'm booking sunny getaways for travel clients and
am ready to hop on a plane to anywhere warm.
Are you feeling it too?
Are you ready to book your next getaway?
Contact me at Curated Travel
5 Romantic Places to Dine Like Star-Crossed Lovers - Curated Travel
Let’s face it, sometimes we all need a little inspiration to bring the romance back into life. It’s so easy to let day-to-day stresses zap the life blood out of a relationship. If you are needing a few ideas to enhance a date night, a couple of these romantic places to dine that might just set the stage.
5 Romantic Places to Dine
Let's face it, sometimes we all need a little inspiration to bring the romance back into life. It's so easy to let day-to-day stresses zap the life blood out of a relationship. If you are needing a few ideas to enhance a date night, a couple of these romantic places to dine that might just set the stage.
By the Water
Whether you find a seafront restaurant like this one at Seven Seas Los Cabos, Mexico, or one of your favorite lake view or river view spots, the glow of the sunset over the water will make you dine like starry-eyed lovers. You won't be able to help yourselves!
On a Beach
It may be a beach cabana to celebrate a birthday on vacation, like this one at Secrets Maroma Beach in Riviera Maya, Mexico, or a simple picnic basket at the beach. Having a beach walk after dinner, or even during dinner, adds to the romantic quality of beachside dining.
High on a Mountain Top with an Expansive View
For us, it was this unique family style dining experience high above Positano, at La Tagliata, on the Amalfi Coast of Italy. The views, the ambiance, the family vibe and the FOOD, made this evening unforgettable. That sunset view of Positano was magical and a view always enhances the mood.
On the Rooftop
Take it to the rooftops! I've sung the praises of a rooftop moment several times on this blog. We have found a few favorites over the years, including the Water Club in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Hudson Hotel in NYC and hotel rooftops in Seville, Barcelona and Lisbon.
Pack a Picnic (or pick one up on the way)
A picnic works equally well for daytime or nighttime. On a sunny Sunday last spring Scott and I headed out for Table Mountain, near our home in Chico. We packed a couple of items and picked up a few things at our favorite healthy takeout place for an easy picnic lunch. We spent the afternoon enjoying the natural beauty of the sunshine, fresh air and springtime blossoms.
At Home
You don't need to go far, your most romantic place to dine could be at home. I know it was for us last Valentine's Day. Rather than fight the crowds and expense of local restaurants, Scott had the idea to order a gourmet dinner from our favorite local caterer, Bacio Catering. Amanda and crew created a swoon-worthy Valentine's Day menu. My only task was to make the table look pretty while Scott plated and presented the multiple courses of our delicious dinner. Dining at home, with such deliciousness, made it a truly relaxed and intimate dining experience. I noticed that Bacio is offering their Valentine's Day Dinner for 2 again this year. Check out the drool-worthy menu. If you live in the north state area, I highly recommend this experience for an utterly romantic Valentine's Day dinner that will have you two acting like star-crossed lovers at home!
Do you have any places that you find especially romantic for dining or date night?
Our Stay in a Luminous Apartment in Centro Storico of Siena, Italy
Thick stone walls create a sense of velvety silence and the stone stairway, leading up to the second-floor apartment, is worn with footsteps of the ages.
There are so many options of where to stay while traveling that it makes the decision all the more challenging, but also intriguing. I love to pour over the images and descriptions of each destination under consideration; our trip to Italy was no different. After months of flirting with various lodging ideas - a villa in the countryside perhaps - we happened upon a charming apartment in the historic city center of Siena. The second-floor apartment is housed in a former monastery and it looked like the right place for us.
As with most of our travels, Scott and I crafted what we wanted our experience to be in Siena. We wanted an authentic, medieval city living situation in the heart of the city.
The Luminous Apartment in Siena
Thick stone walls create a sense of velvety silence and the stone stairway, leading up to the second-floor apartment, is worn with footsteps of the ages.
There are so many options of where to stay while traveling that it makes the decision all the more challenging, but also intriguing. I love to pour over the images and descriptions of each destination under consideration; our trip to Italy was no different. After months of flirting with various lodging ideas - a villa in the countryside perhaps - we happened upon a charming apartment in the historic city center of Siena. The second-floor apartment is housed in a former monastery and it looked like the right place for us.
As with most of our travels, Scott and I crafted what we wanted our experience to be in Siena. We wanted an authentic, medieval city living situation in the heart of the city center. We wanted thick stone walls, rough-hewn beamed ceilings and cheery window boxes gracing the windows. We wanted to scour the markets for fresh, simple fare and create a few authentic Italian dishes in our own kitchen. We wanted to bring in fresh loaves of bread and slather it with jams from the countryside. We wanted to bring in fruit forward bottles of wine and toast to living 'la dolce vita' while we nibbled at the fresh cheeses from the shop on the corner.
I, secretly, wanted to hang our laundry out on the line from the window, just like the locals.
If these walls could talk they would have a rainbow of colorful stories to tell.
Upon our arrival in Siena, having left the Amalfi Coast that morning, we were warmly greeted by the owner, Anna, who showed us around the 3 bedroom/2 bath apartment on the second floor. Anna sat us down to review notes she has prepared for her guests. She shared tips on where to dine, where to shop and what sites to see, along with a map on how to get around. Anna and her husband, Franco, could not have been more helpful during our stay. Their apartment is on the floor below and the pride of ownership is evident in how they tend to their guests. They described a bit of their lifestyle in Siena to us and, believe me, Anna and Franco have learned to live life Italian style and it shows.
A video tour of our apartment with a surprisingly messy ending.
From the website description of the apartment:
About the owner: Anna is a physical therapist who works in Siena and loves her work. Franco is her husband and is a banker in Siena. They love welcoming guests from all over the world, especially people who are curious about Italian culture.
Why the Owner Chose Siena, Siena, Italy: This is the ideal apartment for exploring the gorgeous Gothic jewel that Siena is. The tower of the Church of San Giorgio is part of the apartment's inner structure. The apartment is well cared for, immaculately clean, and reflects the serenity and beauty of Tuscan style.
The Unique Benefits at this Apartment: Location, location, location! The presence of the owners nearby is a definite advantage. In spite of its inner town location, the apartment is very quiet. There is every convenience; dishwasher, washing machine, one bath with shower, and one bath has a bathtub. Separate thermostat for heat.
As a travel consultant, I highly recommend this spacious, luminous apartment in the heart of Siena for couples, families and groups of friends. Truth be told, it is so spacious that Scott and I got turned around trying to find the kitchen a time or two.
If you visit Siena during Palio season- July 2nd and August 16th - you will be in for an unforgettable cultural experience. The Christmas season is also a magical time to visit, according to Anna and Franco. Our thanks to our new Italian friends for making our stay unforgettable!
For more on our visit to Siena and a stylish wedding in Siena.
Have you visited Siena?
Planning a trip? I'd love to help create an unforgettable getaway for you.
If you are interested in information on the apartment, or travel planning services, please contact me at Curated Travel
Ciao!
A Summer Getaway to Siena, Italy
Scott and I spent a day in Siena, back in 2003, punctuated by wrong turns, a stint mistakenly driving in the no-vehicle zone and an epic heat wave. When we finally settled in and enjoyed the charms of an al fresco dinner, we vowed to return to this hilltop city someday. Siena was Scott’s top choice as a destination for our summer in Italy, so this was our time to revisit.
Getaway to Siena, Italy
If the Amalfi Coast is painted with shimmering pastels and flecks of gold, Siena, the jewel of Tuscany, is painted with bold, linear strokes of rich pigment aged over time.
Scott and I spent a day in Siena, back in 2003, punctuated by wrong turns, a stint mistakenly driving in the no-vehicle zone and an epic heat wave. When we finally settled in and enjoyed the charms of an al fresco dinner, we vowed to return to this hilltop city someday. Siena was Scott's top choice as a destination for our summer in Italy, so this was our time to revisit.
We arrived in Siena via a luxury bus from Florence. Our smooth arrival quickly turned into a 30-minute panic involving a missing wallet (again!), containing a stack of Euros and our credit card. Scott had been pickpocketed on our first day in Lisbon several years ago and we had the same sinking feeling. By using some stealth memory skills --of a missing curtain and royal blue upholstery -- we finally located the unmarked bus, among the 30 or so parked buses. We spotted an off-duty bus driver, and following some pleading and the pro-offer of a monetary reward, he popped the lock on "our" bus. Scott bounded up the stairs and immediately spotted his wallet which had fallen between the seats. We were now bathed in sweat, with blisters rising on our feet, but incredibly relieved to have the wallet in possession. Looking back there were a few comedic moments, picture Lucy and Ricky Ricardo, with us running around, luggage in tow, trying to find our bus before it departed.
At long last, our reward was to be in Siena!
The architectural details capture the imagination in Siena.
The food and dining options in Siena are unforgettable. Among Italians, there is a passion towards food and wine that is contagious. Not only are the flavors fresh and lively, but the recipes and vines are steeped in the history of the region. Even the dishware represents centuries-old family history as we learned during a private wine tasting.
In Siena we were seeking an authentic, medieval city experience for our three-day stay. I researched long and hard to find a place, in the historic city center, that was charming and peaceful. We ended selecting a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment in a former monastery. We were so pleased with our choice, owned by gracious Anna and Franco. I look forward to sharing our experience staying at their "luminous apartment' in an upcoming post.
Whether a hotel or a private apartment, staying in the city center allows for easy access to a number of historic attractions, as well as the iconic, fan-shaped Piazza del Campo and the heart of the city. It is ideal for wandering, dining, shopping, or lounging on the stones of the square to capture the light show that is 'evening' in this place. It is dazzling!
In Siena, if you pay attention, you can feel the rhythms of history, ancient battles fought, and the rich traditions of the area that continue. If you are fortunate enough to visit on July 2nd or August 16th you will witness the Palio of Siena festival where locals from the 17 neighborhoods compete. Though we visited in mid-July we were treated to a parade complete with horses, drummers, unfurled flags and cheering crowds in preparation for the Palio on August 16th. Palio is a deeply felt, emotional experience for the Sienese and fascinating to experience as a visitor.
Have you been to Siena?
Are you looking for a fabulous apartment in Siena?
Contact me for more information and travel planning services.
Ciao!
*ALL IMAGES HEATHER LINDSTROM - Curated Travel
5 Reasons to Book Your Next Vacation Through a Travel Consultant
As a well-seasoned traveler, I can attest that I've already seen these types of benefits in trips that I've booked for my travel clients and it is exciting. Whether you are looking to travel the alluring views of Italy, the romantic streets of Paris, a sun-splashed beach in the Caribbean or any dream destination, I've got some fantastic resources for your next getaway.
Curated Travel
A question I've heard often since launching Curated Travel as an independent travel consultant is, "How much does it cost?". I understand that travelers are leery of spending extra cash on the travel planning process. The good news is that using a travel consultant or travel agency is generally a free service. Travel professionals are usuallly paid a commission by the brand - hotels, resorts, cruise lines, vacation package brands - so there is typically no additional cost to you. Using the services of a travel consultant is a becoming more popular again for some very specific reasons, especially in this day and age where we are used to push-button services.
5 Reasons to Book Your Next Vacation Through a Travel Consultant
1 - Travel consultants have access to special discounts and rates that you cannot obtain through typical travel websites.
2 - Travel consultants can often obtain upgrades, free meals, resort credits, amenities and special perks for having the brand connections that you don't have with generic online travel websites.
3 - Travel consultants have expertise in planning, making connections, and determining the preferred locations that can make a world of difference in your quality vacation.
4 - If an emergency arises during your travels, you have support stateside to assist you in solving the problem.
5 - Using a travel consultant is generally a low-cost or even complimentary service for which most brands pay the commission*. You share your desired destinations, specific details, and the travel consultant does the rest. You can have as much, or as little, input as you want, yet the end result is a fabulous vacation designed for you.
*In some situations, when desiring a highly personalized itinerary of tours and bookings with small independent lodgings and vendors, a fee may be charged to create the personalized tour and bookings. Small brands and vendors don't pay commissions so the fee is for the time and expertise of the travel consultant. A travel consultant should discuss whether there are any fees for additional services upfront with you before the booking process is started.
As a well-seasoned traveler, I can attest that I've already seen these types of benefits in trips that I've booked for my travel clients and it is exciting. Whether you are looking to travel the alluring views of Italy, the romantic streets of Paris, a sun-splashed beach in the Caribbean or any dream destination, I've got some fantastic resources for your next getaway.
These are a few of our favorite getaways for some inspiration:
Now is the perfect time to book an unforgettable getaway.
If you are considering some upcoming travel I would love to help!
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INSPIRING.UNFORGETTABLE.WANDERLUST
All Images: Heather Lindstrom
