Sometimes finding the perfect host/hostess gift can be tricky, which is why most guests stick to the classic bottle of wine. There’s obviously nothing wrong with gifting your favorite red (I do it all the time), but why not show your gratitude by bringing something a little more unique? This holiday season, your friends and family will … Continue reading 17 Hostess Gifts (That Aren’t Wine)
“Two paths diverged in a wood and I – I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” – Robert Frost Most are familiar with the wine trails of Napa and Sonoma, but rarely venture further north to the quaint Anderson Valley. Not to be confused with Sonoma’s Alexander Valley, the … Continue reading Anderson Valley: The Path Less Traveled
Autumnal tones at my family’s ranch Blouse, Forever 21 (here); Jeans, Paige Denim; Hat, BDG Urban Outfitters (similar styles here, here and here) I love florals year-round and this blouse is moody enough to wear well into November. In Los Angeles, I’d probably pair it with a suede mini skirt (see below); however, it’s rained since I arrived in Mendocino County a … Continue reading Falling for Florals
A day of niche fragrances and wine on Beverly Blvd. I have major commitment issues. Let me clarify: I have major commitment issues with perfume. People speak of their “signature scent,” but I’ve never felt I had just one. Instead, I’ve had fragrances that remind me of certain moments or chapters in my life. Tocca’s ‘Stella’ awakens the memory of … Continue reading Finding “The One”
Because bath time isn’t baby exclusive As a kid, bath time meant play time. It was an hour ordeal that required a massive heap of bubbles and a snorkeling mask. Yes, you read that last part right. I used to pretend the shallow bottom of my bathtub was a coral reef, and would search for “treasures” until my … Continue reading Rub-a-Dub-Dub, Wine-in-the-Tub
Growing up in our ranch house, which was built in 1856 and served as a Pony Express stagecoach stop, I watched many harvests from our windows. Even though I can no longer cruise around the vineyards and check the crops with my dad, living 400 plus miles south, I look forward to calling my family for the vineyard updates… It’s nearing … Continue reading Cox Vineyards Update: 2016 Crop
I’m not really one to drizzle hot fudge sauce on my ice cream, but when I came across a recipe containing Merlot, I had to indulge! Merlot is a smooth, easy-drinking red that often has notes of chocolate, making it the perfect pairing to this decadent sauce. The best part: it only only takes a matter … Continue reading You Had Me At Merlot…Hot Fudge Sauce
Although I’ve been a girly-girl most of my life, I got the beauty bug when I was in junior high. I used to sneak into my mother’s makeup drawer before school and coat my eyelashes with Diorshow mascara. Soon I was (not so) slyly taking items from her collection. I felt I had graduated from Lip Smackers and roll-on … Continue reading Tried-and-True Beauty Favorites
A Reflection on the Museum of Broken Relationships When we part ways with someone, we’re left with more than a broken heart. We’re left with objects – his oversized t-shirt we sleep in, her bobby pins we later find in the shower, ticket stubs from movies and athletic events, and photo booth strips from happier times – that … Continue reading Heartbreak On Display
I’ve always loved entertaining, whether it be an impromptu song and dance for my parents’ friends as a kid or hosting wine nights in my college apartment. I love playing hostess because I enjoy bringing people together over good food, drink, and conversation. I learned early on that it doesn’t take much to get your place party-ready, especially for … Continue reading Hosting a Wine Night
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