August 12, 2011
Candyland was my favorite game as a child. As a “grown-up” I love Stephen Silver Fine Jewelry–it’s like taking a mini adventure through Candyland! Located at the Rosewood Hotel Sand Hill and originally tagged as the onsite restaurant’s coat closet–this jewel box is Silicon Valley’s best kept secret. The boutique was built in a flash(about 30 days!) in order to make it’s debut at the grand opening of the hotel 2 years ago.
A magical journey unfolds when you see the Collections, with names like–”Enchanted Forest”, “Candy”(how appropriate!) and “Zen”. That said, my personal wish list is extensive and I’ve included pictures of some of my favorites below. I especially love the Vintage Tiffany & Co. gold cuff–a classic to wear with everything! And the adorable Venetian bird cage pendant necklace, part of the Wine Cellar collection, designed in house by Inga Papendieck. I love platinum mixed with gold and of course, diamonds.
For the full on celebrity experience you can make an appointment at the salon, S. H. Silver Company nearby where the jewelry is created in Haute Couture fashion. With fine craftsmanship and completely hand fabricated pieces, they are passionately preserving that part of the jewelry making process that is almost gone. Inga who is also the Director of Operations for the company, says, “We love what we do and try hard to give an exceptional experience to our clients”. Local Celebs Kristi Yamaguchi and Jennifer Siebel are fans.
If your sweet tooth is aching and you can’t get to the boutique or salon, relief is at hand. You can still browse collections on their “sparkling” site–fantastically displayed in charming little vignettes–delicious!
Posted in Jewelry, Luxury, Style | Tagged Annena Sorenson Weddings, anniversary gifts, connie norlander, couture jewelry, engagement rings, jennifer siebel, madera, menlo park, rosewood sand hill, silicon valley, tiffany & co., vintage jewelry, wallcovering designss, wedding jewelry |
July 22, 2011
There seems to be no end in sight when it comes to cupcake popularity. I happen to love cupcakes–whether swirled, dusted or sprinkled and preferably with an inch of frosting. So when one of our brides, a self-professed grazer, requested mini cupcakes(AKA-babycakes) for her June wedding, we were of course happy to oblige. Annena & Co. challenged Perfect Endings in Napa Valley to create the perfect tower to display mini versions of their famous cupcakes. Perfect Endings started the cupcake tower trend back in the 90′s but they had never created one for minis. A new model was engineered with seven tiers separated by white flower pots and topped with a giant cupcake covered in pastel tinted buttercream blooms. Five flavors were chosen–chocolate caramel, banana cream cheese, coconut, vanilla pound cake and double chocolate–all topped with daisies, flowers in hydrangea blue and coral pink, coconut and sprinkles.
As part of a dessert buffet, these silver footed frosted stands with carved fleur-de-lys motifs, elevate the petite cakes to elegant status. Being able to choose three or more feels decadent but in fact, I like to think it’s almost guilt-free. This is definitely a case where willpower can be cast aside and more is better. I think Mies Van Der Rohe would agree.
Photography: Sylvie Gil
Posted in Entertaining, Food & Drink, Parties, Weddings | Tagged Annena Sorenson Weddings, french inspired wedding, mini cupcakes, Napa Valley wedding, parties, Perfect Endings |
May 30, 2011
I can’t wait to venture down to The Grand Del Mar this week for a site tour and intensive business summit! Through my research, I’m anticipating that this resort will ooze comfort and luxury but am most intrigued by the architectural influences.
“The resort pays tribute to the indelible architecture of Addison Mizner, a turn of the century visionary whose worldly design approach defined the resort communities of Palm Beach and Boca Raton in the 1920′s. Inspired by the rich decorative arts of Spain, Portugal, Italy and Morocco, Mizner’s exotic style is evoked throughout The Grand Del Mar, with it’s colorful palette, graceful arched doorways, rotundas, vibrant tile, wood beamed ceilings, ornate stone and wrought iron accents, decorative columns, parquet flooring and gracious verandas.”
My brain is swirling as I imagine the celebrations that have taken place here–and of the possibilities for an experience that I would create–whether intimate or grand. Inspiration coming soon!
Posted in Architecture, Art, Beautiful Places, Design & Style, Events, Luxury, Places, Travel, Weddings | Tagged architectural style, beautiful venue, Moroccan style, parties, san diego, weddings |
May 27, 2011
I want to wish one of my special San Francisco couples, Jodi & David, a very Happy Anniversary! Two years ago, over a chilly Memorial Day weekend, this bride did not want to give up her dream of an outdoor city wedding on the fabulous terrace of the St. Regis San Francisco. Her preference was to not have a tent but to share vows with her groom before a spectacular city backdrop. We crossed our fingers (and toes for this one!) in hopes that this bride’s wish would be fulfilled. Of course, we had a Plan B in place but were thrilled that we didn’t have to use it.
This down-to-earth couple wanted the modern, contemporary sensibilities that you find at the St. Regis San Francisco. The cool sophisticated palette of moss, gray, ruby and soft white created a hip and elegant mood–complimenting the sleek yet warm interior spaces.
All images: Lisa Lefkowitz Photography. Flowers: Karen Axel for Annena Sorenson Weddings.
Posted in Architecture, Color Stories, Design & Style, Interior Design, Places, Weddings | Tagged chuppah, green, Jewish wedding, lime aisle, outdoor weddings, San Francisco, St. Regis |
