December 21, 2017

10TH ANNIVERSARY FAMILY PHOTO SHOOT AT ONE & ONLY PALMILLA

December 21, 2017/ MARLAN

When we were wedding venue hunting in 2007, my sister (Twink) suggested One & Only Palmilla. She and her husband had honeymooned there and loved it. It was absolute heaven and a short flight from Los Angeles, so seemed to be the perfect location for our intimate destination wedding. It was! We had the best time bonding with our family and friends in the days leading up to the wedding. An adventure we would continue to talk about for the ten years following.

So it was only fitting that we return for our 10th anniversary (earlier this year). We decided to bring Mila (5) with us and make a family trip out of it. She absolutely loved it. We spent our days swimming and relaxing (with the hotel staff taking incredible, loving care of us). Before we left, we had the opportunity for a dusk family photo shoot with the talented Bernardo Arce. Wanted to share it with you here, hope you enjoy it!

Happy Holidays! xoxo

Venue: One & Only Palmilla // Photographer: Bernardo Arce // Mila's dress: Bonpoint // Marlan's (Sis) kaftan: Camilla

August 28, 2015

5 CALI GETAWAYS TO TAKE BEFORE THE END OF SUMMER

August 28, 2015/ Laurén

Are you looking to have one more fabulous getaway before the end of summer? With less than a month of official summertime left, I've made my list of Top 5 California resorts to ensure a grand finale to your 2015 summer season. Let's go!

1. POST RANCH INN, BIG SUR.

High atop the cliffs of Big Sur, the 39-room resort is surrounded by incredible mountain and ocean views. The rustic-luxury hotel offers a world-renowned restaurant, an infinity pool, spa and plenty of romance. So much romance that the resort has an 18 and up age requirement. And don't forget to stop by the amazing Big Sur Bakery while you're in the area!

2. THE RITZ CARLTON, HALF MOON BAY

Set upon a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, The Ritz Carlton in Half Moon Bay is located 23 miles north of San Francisco. The resort was completely renovated and refurbished in March of this year, with rooms decorated in cool blue and grey tones, to match its oceanic surroundings. The resort features two championship golf courses, so bring your clubs.

3. SAN YSIDRO RANCH, MONTECITO

Rated by Forbes as the #1 Hotel in America, San Ysidro Ranch is nestled in the Montecito Foothills of Southern California's wine country. The ranch occupies 500 acres of coastal landscape, just a few miles from downtown Santa Barbara. Their private cottages are individually and uniquely decorated, all including fireplaces or stoves. Their property also includes 17 miles of active hiking trails, a hillside pool and sumptuous gardens. I also hear that their extensive and impressive wine list is a BOOK to behold.

4. MONTAGE, LAGUNA

Located on a coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific, the 30 acre beach resort is located in the heart of Laguna Beach. The resort features 248 Craftsman style rooms, all featuring ocean views. The hotel is also home to three restaurants, two pools and a renowned spa. If you are looking for the quintessential California beach resort, this is the place.

5. CALISTOGA RANCH, CALISTOGA

Located in a secluded Upper Napa Valley canyon, on 157 oak lined acres, Calistoga Ranch is a luxury retreat completely engulfed in nature. The Ranch's culinary team sources only the finest organic ingredients to create seasonal dishes to reflect the area. The resort offers wellness classes, such as yoga and Tai Chi. Check out their chicken coop and bocce court on the way to their indoor/outdoor spa.

Now I want to go on vacay too!!! xx

May 26, 2015

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND WEDDING AT BACARA

May 26, 2015/ Laurén

Our close friends renewed their vows at Santa Barbara's Bacara Resort & Spa over the holiday weekend. We thought it was the perfect excuse to spend a few days relaxing at the oceanside retreat. I was reminded how the grounds at the resort are some of the best around. And the wedding, overlooking the ocean, was very special. Here's a peak.

I love this huge succulent and cactus planter as you pull up the the entrance.

Gorgeous green and white blooms greet you in the lobby.

Drool-worthy orchids and peonies.

Let's get cozy by the lobby fireplace,

My favorite part of the resort -- lush grounds surrounding the Spanish-style villas.

Brixton was in Heaven being able to explore and run around the resort grounds.

B's Outfit -- Sweatshirt: Mimobee via Eggy, Pants: Nununu, Shoes: Nike, Air Jordan's

The Bistro patio, complete with ocean breezes.

Power breakfast. Though it isn't on the menu, they will custom-make any omelette you'd like.

Post-brekky walk to the beach.

Pool time!

The wedding ceremony, on the outside grass of the Beach House restaurant, overlooked The Pacific. The the flowing white hupppah, housed a crystal chandelier and was tied with gorgeous pink and white flowers. STUNNING.