May 07, 2015

THE KIDS AT HEDLEY & BENNETT

May 07, 2015/ Laurén

Our Hedley & Bennett love continues! The kids raged at H&B headquarters and became official #ApronSquad members! They tried on aprons from the newly expanded kids' line, while swinging on Ellen's famous swing, eating snacks and making art. It was a seriously fun time. All of these beautiful photos are by Mary Costa Photography.

We are really proud of our little models. xx

May 06, 2015

FIELD TRIP! HEDLEY & BENNETT HEADQUARTERS

May 06, 2015/ Laurén

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

I can't tell you how excited I was to take a field trip to the Hedley & Bennett headquarters and get a closer look into the most amazing apron (and now homewares!) line in all of the land. Ellen Bennett, the founder and designer, is not only one of the hardest working people I know, but she's one of the coolest too. Ellen is a truly kind and positive person who seems to always be having fun (while dominating the world, of course). It's plain to see exactly why she went straight to the top in just two short years. A former line cook, Ellen created her aprons with no design background - just instinct and her experience in the kitchen. Looks like her instinct is spot-on. Not only are her aprons gorgeous, they are the real deal and built to last -- worn by top chefs across the country. Every Hedley & Bennett product is handmade in Los Angeles using top-grade materials such as American canvas, raw Japanese selvage denim and European linens.

In addition to her aprons and chef coats, she recently expanded her adorable kids' apron line and added homewares -- including napkins, pot holders and chef caps.

Sis and I, along with our favorite photographer -- Jenna Elliott, took a tour of the H&B headquarters and saw just how fantastic apron making with Hedley & Bennett really is.

A warm welcome into the headquarters.

Is it just me, or do these aprons totally excite and inspire you? I would actually like to wear them as outfits.

Stacks of gorgeous aprons with her signature "&" logo on the pocket.

You can get caught up on Hedley & Bennett's story right here on the wall.

I could hang in this light-filled room all day. Hope you don't mind if I do, Ellen!

Bright and cheery from her Spring 2015 collection.

Prettiest wall.

Ellen's inspiring mantra.

Love these napkins, recently added to the collection.

I couldn't wait to jump right in and start trying aprons on. I am already a proud owner of several H&B aprons but "Red Rover" was calling my name!

The matching pot holder is perfect.

Sis loved hers too!

The perfect ending to the perfect apron afternoon. Thanks for the push and the tour Ellen! We are proud to be members of the #ApronSquad! xx

March 12, 2015

DTLA'S POKETO

March 12, 2015/ Laurén

Located in DTLA's Arts District, POKETO is a one-of-a-kind boutique with a little something for everyone. I really love and want to support stores, like this one, that carry wonderfully unique and handmade pieces, that you can't find just anywhere. I especially love their perfectly put together displays -- each with its own theme, telling its own story. Founded by husband and wife team, Ted Vadakan and Angie Ayung, POKETO recently opened a second location in Koreatown's Line Hotel. Here's a look into the flagship store.

The cash register displays house jewelry, sunglasses and Mast Brothers Chocolate.

I love this camp themed display.

The colorful and lively childrens' display, in front of datebooks and greeting cards.

Beautiful pouches, clutches and jewelry are displayed next to gorgeous brass desk accessories and pens.

Another story being told with this beautiful theme. And the copper watering can is outta sight!

Lovely homewares, books, baskets and two fabulous marble clocks.

A selection of design and entertaining books and magazine.

Handmade ceramics, flatware and other special items for the home.

Genius "LA" mugs.

And I saved the best for last: golden playing cards. I'll take a deck please!

POKETO is located at:

820 E. 3rd Street

Downtown LA, CA 90013

February 19, 2015

MIXOLOGY 101 WITH PHARMACIE + 5 FABULOUS COCKTAIL SHAKERS

February 19, 2015/ Laurén

Recently, I had the privilege of taking a mixology workshop with Pharmacie founder, Talmadge Lowe. Starting out as an underground speakeasy, Pharmacie is now the go-to party "cocktail caterer," if you will. If you want to have the hottest, and classiest, party in town, you call Talmagdge and his crew to create the most delicious and inventive, craft cocktails, using the freshest of ingredients, to wow even your most discerning party guest. When I discovered that Pharmacie and The Unique Space had teamed up to deliver this workshop, I jumped right in. I have always fancied myself a "natural-born mixologist" but I have to admit I never really went beyond the "vodka cocktail/white rum mojitos comfort zone." And though my friends have given me much praise and elect me the cocktail creator for our dinner parties, I knew I could reach for higher heights and do better! My two hours with Talmadge got me there. I'm no longer afraid of scotch! I can make my husband a whiskey cocktail anytime! Tequila and I are now BFFs! I am more ready to party than ever! Here's a peek into what the class had to offer.