Miss Blatt

Trashy TV: Jersey Shore News

2011-07-18T13:25:00.000-07:00

Well it almost that time... and no I don't mean for the weather to finally get great, or for the horse races to begin. In just a few short weeks, we will all finally get to see our favorite motley crew parade around their self proclaimed homeland of Italy. Jersey Shore Season Four, which was shot in Italy against the approval of basically the whole country, is set to start showing the 4th of August on MTV. Since they returned from their enchanting Euro-trip just a weeks months ago, the cast has - as usual - been up to no good.

Jenni "J-WOWW" Farley has launched an inappropriate clothing line appropriately named Filthy Couture. The line will feature skanky ensembles typically found in a sex store or online at a Halloween costume site. Filthy Couture's website has been taken down, allegedly due to trademark issues. What a bust!

Not to be out done by his old fling, Pauly D has also launched a clothing line, not-so-creatively dubbed Dirty Couture. Just last week, the DJ gone Designer posted a Craigslist ad looking for college students/recent grad's to intern for his new company. For those of you in the unemployment pool, this could be your big chance!!! Requirements for applicant submission are resume, headshot & photo, tanlines at lest 8 gradients darker than natural coloring, and an obnoxious accent.

I won't even waste time talking about Sam & Ron's most recent break up, as they will probably be back together in their nightmare love affair before this blog even gets published.

The nation's favorite cast member to hate, Mike "The Situation" Sorrentino, is apparantly facing a FAT lawsuit from his former management group, Gotham NYC Entertainment. According to TMZ, Gotham NYC claims The Sitch breached his contract when he fired them in May for "lack of performance".. According to them, Sorrentino was required by the contract he signed with them back in 2009, to provide 30 days notice before terminating services, which he did not do. The jury is still out on what will happen next, but I am sure he will just star in another pro-abstinance commercial to pay out his settlement.

Some serious drama in the house caused Vinny Guadagnino to pack up and leave the house during recent filming of the fifth season back at the shore house. They started filming just one week after returning from Italy, and after a week of filming, Vinny was seen leaving the house in the middle of the night in a cab with all of his suitcases after allegedly getting in a fight with one of his castmates. Sources connected to the show have also told TMZ that Guadagnino has been a pain in the a** and no one would be getting on their knees, begging him to comeback to the show. All rumors aside, the reality star enjoyed dinner and drinks Saturday night at the shore with his former roommates, who strategized getting him back into the house after leaving (sources allude to this maybe being fueled by homesickness... poor baby!) Until the following season airs however, we will not know for sure whether or not they will need another loud freckly meatball to replace a fallen castmember.

The phenomenon that is Snooki has been charging forward full speed ahead since her debut on the trashy TV show. At the end of the third season, she was bound for home with an arsenal of new experiences (and championship titles) under her belt, and set out to write a book. Her novel, A Shore Thing, is on the New York Times Best Sellers List, yet has been critically acclaimed as one of the worst books of all time. She has yet to divulge to the public the release of her not-very-anticipated sophomore book Gorilla Beach, but I am sure it will be a reall page turner. But Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi's entrepreneurial spirit doesn't end there! This year, the beloved Jersey Shore castmate launched a line of slippers called Snooki Slippers, followed by a line of pickle print flip flops. Her recent interview with WWD's Footwear Daily gave us some insight into the genius mind of the reality super star:

I never leave home without: “Bronzer and pink lipstick.”

Funniest person I know: “Myself.”

If “The Snooki” were a cocktail, the key ingredients would be: “Pickle juice, vodka and wine, [and it] would have a little umbrella.”

Guilty Pleasure Revisited: Canvas & Canopy

2011-07-14T20:03:00.000-07:00

It is no secret that come the summertime, brooding young couples start getting married. Recently, at least a dozen people I know from high school or college are now giving their vows and calling it quits in the dating pool. Although this scares me to a slight degree, I can't help but gawk over the photos, the dress, the details... I just adore weddings. For a while when I was still in events, I thought I even wanted to be a wedding planner (a dream which shortly after fizzled due to watching the show Bridezillas - yikes)!

Albeit my avoidance of all things stressful, I love to entertain, and weddings are the ultimate party. So yesterday, when my girl friend Shannon came in to show me an event planner's site, whom she had met with that day, I just about died and went to heaven. Canvas & Canopy (Events by Cortni) is THE MOST ADORABLE site ever. Her events look so cute I want to eat them. Everything from the invitations, to the food dislpay, to the napkin folds to the photo montages are charming, unique, amazing. It makes me want to fall in love more than seeing an old couple sitting on a porch together.

I plan on getting married 6 times just so I can reuse all of here ingenius wedding themes. My personal favorite is either the Bali Love or the Seaside Garden. What do you think?

Seaside Garden

Bali Love

Palm Springs Modern

Light Shows by Chanel

2011-07-14T13:03:00.000-07:00

In the truly over-the-top fashion that is only Karl Lagerfeld's, last weeks Chanel show was an after hours extravaganza. Instead of attending swank parties and sipping on culinary cocktails, fashionistas were lined up along the runway of Chanel's 2011 Fall Couture show. Besides the fact that it's Chanel (!!!!!), what could deter hipster fashion week attendees from their coveted after parties?

Lagerfeld is known for his eccentric presentations (ie: icebergs, giant barns, volcanos, etc.), and this year he "turned the Palais into the Place Vendome" cites New York Magazine's The Cut. Replacing the statue of Napoleon Bonaparte with one of none other than Coco Chanel, the entire show's mood was dark and dreamy. The modular twisted 40's inspired collection was set on a stage that resembled a train station at night. The hall was filled with moonlight and glowing street lamps, and to add just a little extra glimmer, the model's boots were filled with soft blue LED lights that lit up during the finale. How PLURfect! The only thing that would have completed this show would be a custom set by Kaskade... a girl can dream.

STALKER STATUS

2011-07-08T16:15:00.000-07:00

To my few and frequent followers, I apologize for lagging so hard on posting. I promise, during those silent weeks, I am not twiddling my thumbs, wandering around like a chicken with my head cut off, or sleeping in a dark cave. Thanks to my new guilty pleasure, The Bloggess, I have decided to take stalking me to another level and keep you in the loop on all the things I do when I'm not posting here (dubbed by the Bloggess as Sh*t-I-Do-When-I'm-Not-Here)

In addition to posting here on music, fashion, culture, and random other items I come across during my day, I regularly blog for two other sites on a daily basis. Fortunately for you, they add to my catalog of work. Unfortunately for me, they tend to take away from my personal blogging.

Trendy Blair is a fashion blog specializing in finding steals in stores or online. In addition to bargain hunting, I also blog regularly about high profile designers, couture fashion events, and provide exclusive interviews with some of the country's most influential designers and business owners.

Pinc Box, my newest addition, is a product my company launched that ships elegant gift boxes to breast cancer patients and survivors. With the affected person's needs in mind, each product is hand picked for the recipient to be able to pamper themselves in true style and comfort. We just launched our site 2 months ago, and so far are building quite the buzz (our new infographic is posted on the right)!

So if you are ever wondering, "What does that girl do all day that keeps her from writing about all the quirky crap she loves so much?" Well, now you know! And for those who are supportive of my loves for fashion and fighting for a cause, respectively, now you have two more roads to follow me on :)

New & Old Faves Make For Happy Ears

2011-06-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

Music has a funny way of forming the soundtrack to one's life, and just as I felt an insatiable thirst for something new, I have once again been given the gift of beautiful music.

Once a die hard Incubus fan, it has been what seems like forever since the group has released a new, refreshing album. After great success with Make Yourself and Morning View - two of my favorite albums of all time by the way, the reformulated band had a few sub par albums put out that just didn't sound like themselves. With the release of their newest album, If Not Now, When?, the relaxing melodies delivered by Brandon Boyd's hypnotic voice are light, minimalist, sunny. It is a bit confusing trying to figure out where the group envisions themselves at this point, this record doesn't exactly fit in the chronology of their discography, but I can't help but enjoy the mood its put me in.

Newly added to my list of favorites, Bon Iver is about to come out with a much anticipated album. Set to be the same dreamy folk songs we all know and love, the album takes on a road trip theme that will hopefully transport me to whatever utopian paradise this magical music comes from. After being introduced to For Emma about a year ago (thank you Mars!) I fell in love with the sweet sounds of Bon Iver and have him constantly on at work, in the car, at home, while I run, anytime really. If his new album is anything like the last, I will be in heaven all summer long.

House Finds It New Home at GuestHouse

2011-06-09T10:00:00.000-07:00

It isn't often that a major change arises in the Gaslamp Nightlife Sector, so when Stingaree announced its plans to give the landmark venue a face lift, I was very eager to hear what was in store. Known for its three stories of warm inviting lounges, extensive DJ list and celebrity fan base, Stingaree has been named San Diego's hottest night club the last four years in a row. What most people don't know about Stingaree however, is that it had an award winning restaurant attached to it. But with the nightclub in the spotlight, the restaurant and its blossoming potential were overshadowed, and the demand for change rose. So why wouldn't managing partners James Brennan and Demien Farrell do what they do best and build out a ground breaking new concept?

"Stingaree has been at the forefront of nightlife, both locally and nationally, since opening over five years ago. The key to our long-standing success is constantly evolving to bring experiences to our guests that create unforgettable memories," said owner, James Brennan. "With the launch of GuestHouse, we look forward to delivering an entirely fresh and intimate venue that keeps guests coming back for more."

In addition to Stingaree, Brennan and Demien and the rest of the Enlightened Hospitality Group have been on the cutting edge of the industry for the past six years, bringing bottle service to San Diego from their roots in New York. With smash hits like Universal, Side Bar and Bar West on the repertoire of successfully launched venues, the pair's wisdom and understanding of current industry trends proved valuable while renovating their space. To make better use of the highly overlooked front half of the building, the duo decided to come up with a brand new, more intimate venue detached from Stingaree, cleverly dubbed GuestHouse.

The setting is that of a sexy study, including cozy design elements like painted word search walls, custom lamp shade light fixtures, plush lounge seating, regal velvet drapery and a crackling fireplace. But unlike the facades seen in other local hot spots like Vin de Syrah, the technology used inside GuestHouse is far more advanced. Bringing together the talents of light and sound engineer John Lyons and AV Concepts, the killer sound system and sensational visual pleasure of textural mapping provide a unique experience unlike any club in San Diego.

With a heavy focus on House music, the GH lineup will, "read as a 'who's who' dossier of headliners from around the globe, peppered with prodigious local talents". The soft opening was this Monday and was a sparkling success, with lots of buzzing bodies and reasons to celebrate - the venue was remodeled in a mere 2 weeks! Beginning with tray passed appetizers, dim lighting and a good looking crowd, the night progressed into a jam packed dance party under melting graphic sequences synced to the beats dropped by Scooter & Lavelle. GuestHouse will be having its hard opening in a few weeks with big name DJ Sharam on the agenda, and is bound to be the newest Industry Night Hot Spot with weekly events on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Tea With Missoni

2011-06-01T00:41:00.000-07:00

Today has just been Missoni Madness! After photos were leaked this morning from the Missoni for Target Collection, straight of the ironing board, I could not stop having striped thoughts and zig zag day dreams. Now, I stumble upon the fabulousity that is the Hotel Missoni in Kuwait and I think I may have found heaven. Appropriately named "House of Worship", ShelterPop did a fabulous photo spread on the magnificent new venue housing hundreds of patterns and unique designs. See below for some serious dosage of Missoni...

Missoni Hotel

Missoni for Target

Winehouse Makes Last Call Before Checking Herself Into Rehab... Again

2011-06-01T00:25:00.000-07:00

The infamously trainwrecked Amy Winehouse has decided to check herself into rehab - once again - before heading on her European tour this summer. According to Rolling Stone Magazine, the songstress has enteredt the treatment program at the Priory Clinic in London. But not before one last drink! Amy allegedly downed one last bottle of Smirnoff vodka en route to her new sober digs. Hopefully this hot little mess can get it together before her Europen tour coming up in the coming months. After all, it is the year of the comeback! (RE: Britney Spears)

Feet Meets Beats

2011-05-24T11:25:00.000-07:00

What do a Brooklyn indie rock group, an LA based shoe company and a local conservation group have in common? An epic collaboration... Coachella performers Animal Collective announced that, in conjunction with Keep Shoe Co., they will be designing a small collection of sneakers whose sales will go to the Socorro Island Conservation Fund (SICF). You probably have never heard of the SICF, since it is relatively new and highly underfunded. The small but mighty organization targets ocean conservation efforts, specifically "to preserving the unique biosphere of the Revillagigedo Archipelago" in Baja, California. Four years ago, Animal Collective members Brian Weitz and Josh Dibbs took a trip to Revillagigedos in 2007 that really sparked their interest in conserving our oceans. Once the idea was pitched to Keep founder Una Kim, the two entities combined forces to come up with an exclusive collection of sneakers, available as of March 26th at Keep Los Angeles on Fairfax and Clinton. And check this- if you pre-order your pair, you can score a limited edition mixtape featuring never-before-heard tracks by Animal Collective. Rad!!

Tis the Season!

2011-05-24T10:26:00.000-07:00

Aside from the fact I simply canNOT wait for Missoni's new home and apparel line to hit Target this September, I recently stumbled upon THE must have accessory for Fall. I have been meaning to purchase a bike since I moved coastal, and the Missoni collection has pleasantly surprised me yet again with the release their spin on the London Liberty bike. The Liberty of London bike was a cruiser with a leather seat and handlebars, and Missoni's design has not been released yet but the fashionistas at Refinery29 have mocked up what looks to be an a-mazing premonition as to what the it-accessory for fall will look like. BANANAS!!

Scrapbooking for Grown Up's

2011-05-12T12:35:00.000-07:00

For many years of my adolescence, I spent countless hours and paychecks on scrapbooking. I looked at it as an art form, which I planned on mastering by the end of high school when the infamous Senior Scrapbook was to be presented to my English teacher. Since high school ended and my fanatic scrapbooking was put on the back burner, I have accumulated hundreds of thousands of photos that I have wondered how on earth I will ever organize and showcase.

Well as far as fashion goes, I have found a lovely solution. Meet Lookbook, my new best friend. This handy little website is the perfect style catalog for any fashionsta (or fashionisto)! It is a database of individuals looking to share their ensembles with the world, and reciprocate their love of fashion with others. I just started my very own lookbook, which will be featured on my blog regularly (veer right). It mimics social networks in a few ways, like the 'hype' button, a familiar friend of the 'like' button on Facebook. It brings together like minded people from all over the world based on one common love: fashion.

Starting your own lookbook is easy. There are a few rules to the game, but being able to catalog your own looks not only proves to be self-empowering but also practical, especially on those mornings when you oversleep or lack creative inspiration (aka Mondays).

Check out my lookbook and hype my style!

The Roc's in the Building!

2011-04-29T14:53:00.000-07:00

I was just made aware that one of my favorite rappers, performers, and style moguls Jay-Z, is active in the blog community! This is great news, not just because music and writing are two of my biggest passions, but because like my blog and many others, it revolves around more than just one topic. Jay-Z is a Renaissance Man of sorts, combining his love of sports, music and fashion in his everyday life with businesses like the New Jersey Nets, Rockafella Records and Rocawear. He is a man of many vices, and with a constant spotlight on him and iconic wife Beyonce, it is about time that he make his thoughts, opinions and passions public with his enormous fanbase.

A collection of all of his favorite things, topics covered in Life + Times include art, technology, sports, music, fashion and leisure. Although sitting around and writing about his new toys & obsessions is not one of his core competencies, I think I speak for all fans when I say it's about time he gave himself the freedom to do so... give the guy some credit, dude has been putting in work for quite a while. Jay has been on top of the east coast rap game since Biggie's death back in the 90's, and has proven to be one of the most widely accepted, original, versatile rappers in the game. He has written, produced and rapped his way to the top, and adapting to new measures of creative expression is commendable, especially for such an OG. Go get 'em Jigga!

Coachella Hangover

2011-04-25T23:35:00.000-07:00

Ahhh the infamous Coachella Hangover. For three non-stop partying / music listening / crowd moshing / field dancing / sun scorching days, hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world pour into the Coachella Valley for what has been dubbed "the most epic festival in the world". It should come to no surprise then, that after such a monumental weekend, it has taken me a week to produce the post...

Well, I will admit this was the biggest year I have ever been a part of. Aside from the usual high temperatures, A-list headliners and stellar celebrity sightings, this was the first Coachella I attended all 3 days and actually made it out during daylight hours instead of hovering inside from the sweltering heat. Not to blend in with previous years, Coachella 2011 featured some unusual heavy hitters most would deem more appropriate for festivals like Lollapalooza or Rock the Bells (or their own over-priced headlining tour). Below, I will give my take on the event and give you a summary of which performances rocked, which fell short of the bar, and give a nice look book for some Coachella street styles I found to be fabulous.

Friday Day One

Gold Medal: Cut Copy
Silver Medal: Tie between Robyn and Ms. Lauryn Hill
Bronze Medal: Kings of Leon
Honorable Mention: Skrillex, Cold War Kids, Black Keys and Chemical Brothers

Friday was a big day for the Sahara Tent, boasting big names like Afrojack, A-trak, Sander Kleinenberg, and Skrillex; luckily I have seen most of them so I was able to focus on some new stuff. First of all, BIG honorable mention to the Black Keys, whom I had to miss only for the supreme victory that was Cut Copy's performance. I am a huge Keys fan, but when it comes to celebrating birthdays (we had one), bringnig together old friends from all over (we had 2 out of towners joining us), and wanting to shake some booty, Cut Copy was by far the best decision of the day. Not far behind them were the vocals of vixens Robyn and Lauryn Hill. Lauryn Hill was during the sunset and featured some throwbacks from The Mis-education of Lauryn Hill, as well as some Fugee's tracks I was hoping she would perform. Robyn was energetic, commanding and original, she completely captivated an enormous crowd (most of which I found surprising to be young-middle aged men that new more of her songs than I did). Kings of Leon rounded out the winners with an epic rock performance with exceptional video montages featured on the big screens. RADICAL! Other Honorable Mentions: Skrillex I heard you were off the charts! But I just saw you at Voyeur in San Diego so I had to pass you up. Cold War Kids looked amazing from far out views, and we were lucky enough to catch a couple songs en route to Cut Copy. Chemical Brothers, if it weren't for your crazy sounds, the walk through the campsite (in the wrong direction) may have killed me.

Saturday Day Two

Gold Medal: Mumford & Sons
Silver Medal: Steve Angello
Bronze Medal: Paul Van Dyk
Honorable Mention: Arcade Fire, Empire of the Sun, Scissor Sisters

Day two was much shorter than the others, as we made time for the OASIS Pool Party in the afternoon, which was crawling with great outfits and some serious celebs. Although electronic music is my MO, the Gold Medal winner Saturday was by far Mumford & Sons for their stellar performance. Steve Angello was undoubtedly the best I saw in the Sahara Tent, earning him the Silver, and Paul Van Dyk got defaulted to Bronze since I missed all the others :( Arcade Fire left the crowd to part the venue with giant glow in the dark balloons and Scissor Sisters I caught a quick glimpse of, and boy did it sound fun!

Sunday Day Three *CHAMPION DAY*

Gold Medal: Tie between Kanye West and Chromeo
Silver Medal: Tie between The Strokes and Nas & Damien Marley
Bronze Medal: Three way tie between Jimmy Eat World, Wiz Kalifa and Ellie Goulding
Honorable Mention: Duran Duran

Sunday was by far the best lineup, and hottest day of the festival. Although trying to bounce between shows is a tough task any day of the festival, this day was the toughest because they had the most variety. And like any day of a festival of this magnitude, sacrifices were made but I was ultimately happy with my decisions. The Honorable Mentions were a whirlwind of walking, and although I didn't get to see any of their full sets, all three acts had equal significance to me so I was happy to see any of them at all. Jimmy Eat World took me back to high school, playing nostalgic tracks from their Bleed American and Clarity albums. Ellie Goulding's voice was so pretty it was like a gust of cool breeze in the desert heat. Wiz Kalifa we walked in on, and really pumped the crowd up for Nas & Damien shortly after. Nas & Damien really worked the main stage and put on a super sick show, especially given it was during the prime heat of the day. Tracks like "If I Ruled the World", "Fu-gee-la" (round 2, after Lauryn Hill's Friday rendition) and "Road to Zion" were among the set list. After a quick dose of Sven Vath, we made our way to the Outdoor Theater for some Chromeo dancing, and it was off the charts. The dry desert winds were gusting in the night and Chromeo's lights, sequined jacket and dance moves really set the mood quite nicely. Not to mention he brought special guests Vampire Weekend and surprise guest/little brother A-Trak on stage to bop on the drums for a finale!! Just after the halfway mark of Chromeo, we migrated to The Strokes at the main stage and although we were battered and beaten by this time, I danced my little tootsies to death to more nostalgic tracks from their Last Night album, as well as newer tracks like "You Only Live Once" and "Reptillia". The only thing that could top off a day filled with techno, hip hop and indie rock was none other than the cherry on top... Kanye West (no pun intended, his red suit was Maraschino fresh)! Although it was disappointing that his rumored special guests never made it on stage (ahem ahem Katy & Rihanna), Bon Iver made a lovely appearance for his two songs featured on Kanye's new album. Celebrity let down aside, Kanye's set ranged from his College Dropout days, through his newest hits like "ET", "All of the Lights" and "Monster". The whole crowd was dancing, his moments where he spoke were well thought out (and infrequent, thankfully), and the evening came to a close with A Toast to the Douchebags. Perfect Ending!!

Besides the music, the parties, weather and fashion are enough to draw a crowd in a remote location such as Indio. Fashion being my forte, I have included below some pics of friends, strangers and socialites who really dressed their best for the fest.

Sister G

Love this look

A little dressy for my festival style, but hot nonetheless

Drew Barrymore

Ms. Lauryn Hill in Jil Sanders

xoxo, yours truly

A Girl Can Dream...

2011-04-25T21:32:00.000-07:00

I don't know if its all the flowers blooming or couples coming out of winter hibernation, but I have had weddings on the brain all week! I recently wrote a post for Trendy Blair featuring Anthropologie's new wedding collection BHLDN, and that's when the obsession began. I already love cakes and flowers, so divulging into the beautiful world of weddings was not hard. And in the spirit of the magnificent Royal Wedding that is upon us, I figured I would indulge in some wedding cake window shopping to prepare for the royal event!

With my roots on my mothers side in Georgia, I have always loved the idea of a country wedding. Not country like Betty Crocker, but country couture. Think mustard yellows, soft pinks and creamy ivories. Mason jars and hanging lanterns; handcrafted country linens; bird houses and picket fences. On My Sweet and Saucy, among the different masterpieces, I found these two variations of gorgeous country wedding cakes that I could only imagine among the scenarios in my mind. This charming cake is so simple yet the details really fit perfectly into a chic, country style wedding. The mustard yellow damask detail at the top and golden pearls around the base are an elegent touch to a rch creamy cake with subtle patterns and wide tiers. The wooden base really is the deal maker for me, giving it a unique rustic detail.

This Victorian beauty is so dainty and delicate with the pink and cream accents of rosettes and pearls. The details are so intricate that I would not even serve this cake, I would have to make a cupcake recipe for the guests and save the cake forever!!

Contemporary weddings are also dreamy, perhaps a reception in a loft with a view after an intimate ceremony, with hosted champagne and dessert on the patio and martinis and jazz music warming the inside. This cake from Mark Joseph Cakes in NYC features beautiful textured icing with a light shimmer and a smooth matte monogramed tier in the middle.

For the perfect mix of contemporary and country, a cake that would be the focal point of any reception, is this beauty created by Wildflowers by Lori. Serving the brides of the northeast, Wildflowers makes elegant cakes for traditional weddings. This cake uses a subtle classic, the calla lily, as its key flower. This modern twist on a traditional cake is perfect for a shabby chic wedding at a site with lush botanical garden.

If you can't wait for the Royal Wedding, there are hours of prep work to be viewed on TLC depicting the love stories of both the modern day and old school princes and princesses. Friday @ 5:00 am the Royal Wedding will be aired on cable for all the world to see. Tune in to indulge in the international spectacle with me!

Papa's Garden

2011-04-25T11:48:00.000-07:00

I am always looking for new hobbies, as I get bored easily. With dad planting a summer vegetable garden, and my love of flowers, I have been contemplating getting involved with an outdoor hobby, perhaps gardening or planting. Well, in my search for info on the stylish sponges I discussed in my last post, I stumbled upon on article on planting and keeping succulents, which I found extremely eye catching. Let me explain...

When I was a little girl and we still lived in LA, my parents always took me to my Nonny and Papa's because when grandparents are local, what choice does one have? I frequented swimming in the pool, blowing bubbles in the grass, and cruising through the grove with my Grandpa to admire his blossoming orchard and large cactus collection. Over the years, my Papa had a variety of hobbies including training pigeons, building birdhouses, and grooming his cactus garden - which soon became paramount to the others.

Throughout the course of my childhood, he had collected many succulents, ranging from pear and flower blooming cacti to aloe vera plants laden with lizards. He had a habit of personifying his plants, giving them various accessories to accentuate their respective personalities. The tall furry looking ones donned old bi-focals and bow ties, while the short stout one's rocked fishing hats and Raybans. The older looking cacti wore blue blocker's like Papa, and the flowering one's were planted in vintage decorative pots on pedestals around the perimeter of the grove. Cacti, usually considered boring to many, have always been a wonderous species in my memory bank. Up until the day he passed away, my Papa grew his collections to eventually include HUNDREDS of succulents, including a small garden for me.

So, fast forward back to this sunny afternoon at work, when I find this random article. Imagine my surprise to not only find another person in the online blogging community who admired succulents, but also to find this article by happenstance just before summer and the ontaking of new hobbies. Although the garden he groomed before his passing still stands, rugged and dying in my grandparents backyard, I don't think it would be far fetched for me to start my own little mini garden of succulents not only to give myself an escape from day to day work and responsibility, but also to honor my Papa and the green thumb he passed down to me.

With my grandfathers wisdom always in my heart and mind, and my desire to find a hobby outside during the summer months, this might be the perfect time to start my own cactus collection.

You'll Love Succulents If: You're a lazy gardener. These plants are hardy and durable. They don't require a large space to grow, so they're great for container gardens and hanging baskets. Plus, their roots are shallow so little soil or potting mix is required for planting or transplanting making them easy for children and beginning gardeners to care for.

Make your Spring Cleaning FIERCE!

2011-04-21T12:22:00.000-07:00

Ever since my first taste of independence in college, I have always been fascinated with styling my home. Novelty items like vintage toasters and Warhol soup cans line my kitchen, and a mix of photography and pop art litter my walls. No stranger to styling, Project Runway winner Christian Siriano shares my views on living fashionably.

Like fellow designers Isaac Mizrahi, Diane Von Furstenburg, and Cynthia Rowley, Siriano has brought his knack for design into the home. His new line of O-Cel-O sponges has the ultimate appeal to neat freaks and fashionistas alike. “The African, Indian and Asian influences of my 2011 Spring collection served as the inspiration for my sponge designs,” said Christian Siriano. "Both patterns are meant to captivate the consumer's eye through the simplicity of a sponge mixed with great style." ShelterPop recently interviewed the famed designer on his move toward household fashions, check out what he had to say:

ShelterPop: So tell us. Why sponges?

Christian Siriano: I'm really into home, and I love this moment of fashion in your kitchen. I figured, sponges could look a little bit cuter... and not so grimy. It's a different type of project -- more of a graphic design experiment for me. Something not so serious!

ShelterPop: How do you make housework fun?

Christian Siriano: Like I said, I'm a clean freak. I get really into it. All I need is good music.

ShelterPop: Whats on your cleaning playlist?

Christian Siriano: Ohmigod, it could be anything. Anything from Britney and Christina to old Toni Braxton. And my boyfriend loves Tori Amos so sometimes it can be a little intense. Oh! And we'll even have a bit of classical depending on what's going on.

Whether it's daily dishes or shower scrubbing, I can definitely get down with these fierce sponges! Check out the O-Cel-O website to gets your gloves on some of your own :)

Kanye Causes Seizures?

2011-04-21T11:39:00.000-07:00

In my quest for inducing Coachella flashbacks at work this week, artists like Chromeo, The Strokes and Kanye West have been in heavy rotation on my headphones. Wanting to get a bit of visual action, I have also - in general - been searching more music videos (since MTV no longer airs MusicTeleVision...) and stumbled across one of my fave songs from the weekend, "All of the Lights".

This song already is a fave of mine because it reminds me of Vegas, festivals, basically all the great things in life. Seeing it performed live among a sea of 80,000 made it even more special. Not to be outdone, this video is really the cherry on top. In addition to it being laden with heavy beats and bright lights, I found it very peculiar/comical/sketchy that the video is preluded with a Warning to people with Epilepsy that states:

WARNING

This video has been identified

by Epilepsy Action to potentially

trigger seizures for people with

Photosensitive Epilepsy.

Viewer discretion is advised.

I knew digesting Kanye could cause symptoms such as cockiness, nausea and swag-itis, but seizures? Jesus! Maybe its all that Rhianna cleavage stopping hearts - go girl!

Calling all Detectives! DKNY Easter Egg Hunt Yields $1000 Shopping Spree Prize!

2011-04-21T10:08:00.000-07:00

Since my last article on the digital efforts of fashion brands, many designer labels and national retailers have been using social media and cutting edge coupon sites to create hot deals and generate buzz. With spring in the air and the turn of the seasons prompting lots of sales, DKNY has come up with a festive way to increase their social media presence as well as encourage consumers to get a head start on their summer shopping.

The single day promotion will take place in both the company's New York and London stores, with two prizes each for $1000 shopping sprees. "The company is tweeting clues to help followers find chocolate Easter eggs and other treats hidden throughout the store" states Mashable's article on the scavenger hunt promo. DKNY has been posting clues on their Twitter account, prompting users to visit both stores and upload photos via twitter @dkny once they discover the candy coated goodies. One clue, “I’m a kitten but I don’t purr,” led one shopper to a chocolate bunny rabbit resting on a pair of black kitten heels in DKNY’s London store.

Although the promotion is only good today, don't be discouraged if you can't fly to New York or London by the seat of your pants. Those who can’t participate on the ground are invited to guess where the eggs might be located based on the tweeted clues. So get out your investigative skills my little detectives because you could be the lucky winner of a fat shopping spree today!

Goodbye Blue Box, Hello Pinc Box

2011-04-20T15:17:00.000-07:00

For decades, the coveted little blue box from Tiffany & Co. has been a symbol of generosity and love. Yes, sterling silver, 14k gold and diamonds are all lavish ways to say you care, but for those with more sensitive scenario's, high end jewelry isn't always a girls best friend. Well Tiffany, step aside because there's a new box in town!

Pinc Box was launched a few years back by two women based out of New York after learning that one of their friends was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Although there are many beauty, household and fashion items on the market who donate a portion of proceeds to breast cancer programs or charities, what was missing was a gift that you could buy solely for the purpose of comforting and soothing the soul of someone diagnosed with cancer. After taking account of the needs and limitations of a patient or survivor, Pinc Box was born!

The Pinc Box is a thoughtful, elegant gift set which includes custom made products to suit the needs of those affected by cancer. I don't simply mean pink packaging and glitter and unicorns, I am talking about details typically overlooked. For instance, instead of filling the Pinc Box with a shimmering pink rose scented lotion - what one would think would be a fitting gift - the founders of Pinc Box have created a custom fragrance free hand and body lotion to moisturize and sooth the skin without irritating it with busy dyes and scents. Breast cancer patients that have gone through chemotherapy are extremely sensitive to smell, making it hard for those who have been through chemo to enjoy sweet, floral or oriental frangrances (citrus is one exception, hence the Citrus Scented Aromatherpy candle also included in the gift set). This product, along with the rest that comprise the Pinc Box, are all made with lots of love and thoughtfulness, with only the recipient in mind. The similarities shared by both the blue box and the pinc box are meant to reflect quality and luxury, and to provide a sense of love and consideration. The difference between the two boxes is, the Pinc Box caters to the specific needs of a patient or survivor, unlike a majority of products that benefit the fight against breast cancer.

Breast cancer is a vicious disease that just so happens to run in my family, so a gift like this means a lot to me and my loved ones. Being able to give a gift to someone in need of comfort and care is priceless. And on top of all the benefits of what comes inside the box, 10% of proceeds of the Pinc Box go towards Breast cancer charity, so it is truly a win/win for both the maker and the recipient.

If you are looking for a unique gift like this for someone you love, skip Tiffany's old school silver ribbon necklace in a blue box and go for the one-of-a-kind, unforgettable gift of a Pinc Box!

Death Cab on the Moon

2011-04-05T22:56:00.000-07:00

Tonight, for the first time in music video history, a band has performed their video live in one single shot. At 7pm EST- only 6 hours ago -Death Cab for Cutie streamed their performance of and concept behind their new single "You Are A Tourist” as it was happening. The song is the new single off of its seventh album Code and Keys, due out May 31 on Atlantic Records.

When asked about the production of this epic video, frontman Ben Gibbard said, "It'd be like trying ask a 5-year-old kid to explain their trip to Disneyland. It's sensory overload."

All this exciting stuff comes right after the band announced their new tour, kicking off in Toronto on May 18th. The Codes and Keys tour includes a few nights performing with Coachella headliner Bright Eyes for three dates in the Pacific Northwest.

Lego my Fergie

2011-04-05T22:26:00.000-07:00

I don't usually watch the Kids Choice Awards, but if more celebrities had as much fun dressing up as Fergie, maybe I would consider it. This week at the Nickelodeon red carpet awards ceremony, the front woman for the Black Eyed Peas rocked a skin-tight, candy-colored Dolce&Gabbana dress that looked so good you could eat it (same goes for the cotton candy pumps). And not to be outdone by a Katy Perry outfit or a GaGa masterpiece, the Duchess followed up her red carpet look with a dress made COMPLETELY OUT OF LEGOS during the BEP performance! Yes, all legos. Although it sounds like a disaster, like her "evening gown", the color arrangements and patterns really worked well and carried the perfect playful prettiness fit for the Kids Choice Awards. Fergalicious!

Coachella Pre-Game

2011-03-27T22:38:00.000-07:00

With the month of April upon us, Coachella jitters are starting to settle and I couldn't be more psyched! The weekend getaways are what I live for now that I'm a working girl and this one is the biggest of the year. Amazing weather, a picturesque landscape, the best in music and cutest outfits. All I can do is think about it and the anticipation overwhelms me at times because I know that in just 19 days, I will be able to be a part of yet another year of this epic festival.

To feed my itch, I have been playing some predicted tracks on repeat throughout the day. Many of these songs have special memories attached to them from my many years of musical growth and have made up the soundtrack to my life. I envision hearing them in the spectacular surroundings Coachella has to offer and just glow with excitement.

"To Zion" - Lauryn Hill
"Flashing Lights" - Kanye West
"Hometown Glory" - Adele / Axwell Remix
"Sex On Fire" - Kings of Leon
"Aint No Rest for the Wicked" - Cage the Elephant
"The Thrill" - Wiz Kalifa / Empire of the Sun
"Move" - Cut Copy / CSS Remix
"Lucky Denver Mint" - Jimmy Eat World
"First Day of My Life" - Bright Eyes
"Wildcat" - Ratatat
"You Used to Hold Me" - Calvin Harris / Laidback Luke Remix
"Animal" - Neon Trees
"Someday" - The Strokes
"Just a Boy" - Angus & Julia Stone
"We Used to Wait" - Arcade Fire
"Hang With Me" - Robyn (w/ Snoop Dogg? A girl can dream...)
"Howlin For You" - Black Keys
"Little Lion Man" - Mumford & Sons
"Made You Look" - Nas
"Fugee-la" - The Fugees (hopeful, but definitely possible)
"Not in Love" - Crystal Castles

Will you be at Coachella? Always looking to add to my list, tell me your faves from this year's Coachella lineup.

Coachella 2007

Sahara Tent

Festival Love

Chloe Sevigny

Festival Style

Light Box

Main Stage under the stars

Sponge Light Install

Girls Rule, Boys Drool

2011-03-06T21:11:00.000-08:00

After a very enticing Armani Jeans ad endorsed by professional soccer player/sex symbol Christiano Ronaldo was released last year, a similarly styled short has been created for all the fellas out there to enjoy. Even though I am partial to Christiano's for obvious reasons, even I can't denounce Megan Fox's level of hotness.

Bikini Season has come early!

2011-03-03T16:02:00.000-08:00

Want to be a part of the next big thing in San Diego?

Bikini Week, slated for May of 2011, is the third annual swimwear fashion expo to hit the streets of San Diego. With the Bikini Week production team backing Parris Harris next Saturday, Kress Nightclub will be putting on a swimwear fashion presentation previewing the looks that will be shown in both the Bikini Week Tour and Bikini Week San Diego.

BWT commences later this month, touring seven spring break destination cities including Lake Havasu, Palm Springs and Las Vegas. Each stop will comprise of multiple fashion presentations, photo shoots and promotional events. Once the tour has ended, focus will shift to the mainstage in San Diego where a whopping SEVEN DAY EXPO will commence all over the city. Bikini Week San Diego is on its third run under direction of ASC's Michael Lee McGriff, and will be bigger and better than ever with production assistance from outside contractors, interns, and none other than GO Fashion!

The goal of Bikini Week San Diego is not just to showcase the latest and greatest of the swimwear industry's trends, but also to provide a retail aspect to vendors seeking interaction with their customers. Since ASR has been cancelled from the San Diego list of events, vendors and brands participating in this one of a kind event are given the opportunity to sell directly with those looking to buy: not retailers, but CONSUMERS. Details regarding the separate presnetations, events and trade shows will be updated on the BWSD website once the tour has commenced.

During Bikini Week Tour and Bikini Week San Diego, three contests will run concurrent to the fashion events. The following categories open to the public:

-All American Bikini Girl
-All American Bikini Designer
-All American Bikini Photographer

In addition to contest participants, the Bikini Week staff is seeking interns for the following categories:

-Social Media
-Model Dressing
-VIP hosting
-Research & Promotion

If you are interested in participating in any of this unique, exciting, FUN opportunities or for more information on the tour, Bikini Week San Diego and the contests running from now until June, check out the Bikini Week 2011 website!

TB Insider brought to you by Trendy Blair

2011-03-03T12:10:00.000-08:00

Huge news in Fashion people!! My good friend Trendy Blair has gotten the up to date news on Galliano's status at Maison de Dior, check it out!

Although it is sad to see you go John, anti-Semitism is so last century!

Aur Revoir Galliano!

Project Ethos gets FLUXXed up in San Diego

2011-03-03T12:01:00.000-08:00

Project Ethos, a production hybrid that elegantly brings together various artistic mediums into fabulous one night showcases, has returned to San Diego for another enticing presentation. This past weekend, the PE team combined live art installations with a stellar musical performance by MANN and a high fashion runway show. Local designers were showcased at the exclusive event, including Tatiana Zaykovskaya (Tatiana Z), Keisha Audrey (Keisha Audrey Designs), Yrenne Landeros, Kenneth Barlis, Stacie Tailor (Stacie May), Cardiwrap By Kymaro and Frederick’s of Hollywood Swimwear. Frederick's, known for their sexy lingerie and lounge wear, is launching their new swim line exclusively at PE events across the country this season.

The show had many different aspects that either delivered or failed to deliver the results typical of Project Ethos shows. Although the production standards were definitely met, and in some cases exceeded, some of the designers were far less couture than others and like most locally sourced shows, some of the models seemed more comfortable in their skin than others. The opening musical performance was more impressive than I expected, although I must admit I didn't expect much since I had never heard of MANN or his hit single "Buzzin", and set the mood for a fun laid pack evening. Once the music and lights lowered and the fashion presentation began, a very strange ballet performance was used to mark the start of the runway show. It seemed as though models tried to use ballet as an artistic measure, but it came across like the producers were trying to hard. Ballet has a few verticals that cross over into runway, but the vibe set by the musical performance and later in the music, choreography and styles used in the show did not have anything remotely relevant to ballet or its grace.

Overall, as much as San Diego is in dire need of a fashion element, the designers based out of San Diego seem to lack in some of the creatiive genius that makes LA, New York and Miami all renowned for their fashion scenes. Of all of the designer sets, the only one's I could really find use for were Cardiwrap By Kymaro, Tatiana Z and Yrenne Landeros.

Cardiwrap was the opening scene and although I could not stand the spandex harem pants (bleck!), the chameleon like quality of the upper half of the looks was practical and pleasant. After a typically cheap looking collection from Frederick's swim wear line, Stacie May's retro boho looks were playful but her prints made me dizzy with discomfort. The next two acts I won't even dwell on; the ghetto prom collection by Kenneth Barlis and the horrendous DIY carpet collection by Keisha Audrey were straight up beat. Most of this time was spent sipping champagne and making sure my flyaway's were behaving...

Cardiwrap By Kimaro

Then, like a beacon of light, came the most fun presentation of the bunch. Yrenne Landeros' garments were by far the best. With a trendy-feminine theme showing off mini hem's, rompers and cutouts, the designer utilized playful colors and patterns with bursts reds and yellows that really spoke to not only the vibrancy of the line and its birthplace, but also the vitaminwater zero challenge incorporated by the producers of PE. Her music was hip, the models had fun and most importantly, virtually all of the looks were 100% wearable. The hot item that grabbed everyone's eye was a yellow skirt laden with black leather straps, giving off an edgy vibe that was seriously lacking from every other collection that came down the runway. Her tribal print cutout dress was ravishing and if I could pick one item to wear outta that place, that would have been it.

The famous yellow skirt! Bangin!

The Tatiana Z collection came at the end and was one of the most well rounded collections of the evening. Complete with gorgeous maxi dresses and fun cocktail dresses with couture ruffles incorporated (a bit avant garde, but street friendly), the designers evening wear set was feminine, contemporary and chic. Her peace sign handbag was a hit and was an example of how functionally she utilized her accessories.

Tatiana Z from the front row

Overall, it was nice to see a fully produced show at a premier venue in San Diego, but in the right hands, the producers could have been somewhat more selective with their designers. It's about quality not quantity, I would have much rather watched a shorter version highlighting my three faves then sitting through the agony of some of the other segments.

In addition to the presentations given over the course of the evening, there were a few local industry and socialite sightings that were note worthy. Amy Grace Winn of Grace Styling sat front row at the seven segment fashion show, right across the runway from Project Runway's own Gordana Gehlhausen. Also spotted was the GO Fashion team, another up and coming fashion event production company born out of San Diego.

i got soul but i'm not a soldier

2011-02-09T20:32:00.000-08:00

I have finally given in and accepted American Idol into my life. I have always thought the show was such a reflection of mainstream music fads and tasteless competitors desperate to get on TV. I don't know if it's J Lo's wardrobe or Stephen Tyler's lips, but I have suddenly taken a long overdue liking to this incredibly commercialized show. Besides the charismatic judge additions though, the music being performed on the show - even during auditions- has gotten better. From Casey Abrams from the LA audition who got down with "Don't Need No Doctor" to Stefano from San Francisco's casting singing Marvin Gaye's "I Heard it Through the Grapevine", I started to think maybe it is possible that not all of the people on this show are wannabe Justin and Christina's...

I have been listening to a lot of Motown jams and Jazz standards lately, getting through my workdays with the Temptations station on Pandora and spending my evenings with Ella Fitzgerald on vinyl. Maybe it was when I was sick and spending three whoppin hours watching The Temptations on VH-1, or maybe it was my dad's vintage taste in records, but something about the sound of a warm, deep soulful voice just speaks to me.

Fashion 2.0

2011-01-25T13:26:00.000-08:00

It is nice to see when two very different worlds collide to build a harmonious relationship. My two loves, technology and fashion, have made some major progress in their growing relationship over the past few years. Through multiple vehicles including inspiring viral videos, all access backstage footage for the public to view, social media deals and web development innovations, fashion companies have been very vocal about their views. The integration of these exciting new processes and agents have not only helped designers communicate to their audiences more effectively, but also help the growing fashion community express their own views to the designers they know and love.

One of my favorite things to do in the morning is check out Mashable's top stories and nothing gets me more buzzed then seeing fashion pop up in one of their showcased headlines. Beyond the realms of fashion blogging and the plethora of viral videos that have been created by world renowned designers such as Karl Lagerfeld, there are other avant-garde ideas popping up on the web that fashionistas must check out.

One of the more recent article I stumbled upon involve live fashion advice from experts and/or consumers. Delivered in the form of both mobile app's and websites, these forums are the answer to every indecisive shopper's dilemma. Glamour Magazine's Ask A Stylist iPhone app has assisted many, utilizing the mobile photo upload function to broadcast your question to a professional stylist or to your peers via one of your social media networks. This is genius!!! If I had this app on my phone during college I probably could have afforded a much more selective wardrobe.

E-vite techniques have also become widely popular among bidding and bargain sites for high end apparel and accessories on sites like Rue La La and Gilt. The access these sites give to designer duds at extremely outrageous (in a good way) prices has made it so simple for any aspiring A-lister to look sharp.

The more fashion mobilizes its inner nerd, the more us fashion freaks are able to continue shopping the looks we love in easy, affordable ways. And the more state-of-the-art functions fashion can perform, the better!

DBD's Annual Night After Thanksgiving Party Strikes Again!

2010-12-17T14:41:00.000-08:00

Bravo, ladies! You have outdone yourselves yet again!

With the arrival of the holidays comes the need for festive outings and good old fashioned fun. It has become an annual tradition for local socialites in the North County area to gather for an evening of catching up and getting down the night after Thanksgiving. What started many years ago as a Torrey Pines reunion put together by Todd Prager, has since evolved into a social phenomenon taken over last year by none other than TP bred, New York based event planning company DBD Social. Partners Carli Roth and Yvonne Najor have been hosting high profile events on both coasts for over 2 years, and this post-feast party has turned into another one of Thanksgiving's many traditions. By always using ground breaking venues and bringing together only the creme-de-la-creme of North County, DBD has managed to become a household name not only in NYC but San Diego as well.

This year went above and beyond last year's event hosted at Prospect Bar & Grill. The soiree took place at none other than the flagship location of La Jolla nightlife, Barfly. Once used for a Hard Rock Cafe many moons ago, Barfly has been transformed into a swank bar/lounge complete with VIP tables, go-go dancing stands and flat screens boasting colorful visualizers to accompany the stellar DJ lineup.

Guests arrived in waves between 8 and 10 pm, all bringing unwrapped toys to benefit the CyMo Foundation. Close to heart for both Roth and Najor, among many of the guests attending the event, the CyMo Foundation was created a few years ago in loving memory of our dear friend Cyrus Moinzadeh, who was lost to substance abuse. The mission of the CyMo Foundation is to, "bring awareness through local non-profit alliances, [and] promote and sustain local initiatives of love, health and happiness". The toys collected at DBD Social's Night After Thanksgiving Party contributed to CyMo's third annual toy and blanket drive, benefiting at risk children that are kept off of the streets by the shelters refurbished by the Foundation. Over 200 toys were brought for the drive, a smashing success!

As usual, the evening was filled with many run in's among friends, old and new, and if it wasn't already made clear by the sold out bottle service and maxed out capacity of the venue, it was apparent by the flashing photo bulbs, warm embraces and sparklers filled bottles of champagne that the event was a hit. Beyond the realm of Torry Pines High, friends of DBD from La Jolla High, LJCDS, and guests from many other educational institutions and nearby cities flanked the red carpet for the social gathering of the year.

Photos, below, capture many of the highlights from the evening's shenanigans and are surely only a taste of the excitement the NYC duo of DBD Social are bound to bring us next year. Who knows, maybe if we are on the nice list, Santa will bring us another festive DBD creation for Christmas! ;-)

Friends from Class of 05-06

Miss Roth and friends

DBD and friends

Miss Najor and the Brothers Noar

CyMo Foundation racked up over 200 gifts! Well done Ladies!

Sear & There

2010-12-17T10:38:00.000-08:00

An avid fan of Brian Malarkey and my desire to experience fresh new restaurants led me to this mysterious buzzed about spot for dinner a few months ago. Everything was absolutely phenomenal. The cheddar puffers to start, the famous shrimp & grits for round two, a delicious filet for the entree and the King Sundae complete with caramel and bacon to slide into home. This meal, combined with the company of girlfriends and Italian wine made for one of the best dinners I have ever had. Ever. Led by many return visits and more "best dinners ever". The staff is always great, the bar is glorious, and the crowd is full of successful young professionals eager to loosen their ties and let down their hair. These components are what has kept Searsucker on top of their game and always busting at the seams with newcomers, return visitors and religious followers.

A few weeks ago, I was lucky enough to be invited to the first round of Searsucker's soft lunch opening. All meals seemed boring and anticlimactic in comparison to what was to come. And I soon found out why. The renowned modern farm table decor, order upon entrance, and table number techniques gave it a casual vibe perfect for a quick lunch, with all the benefits of an upscale eatery. The attention is in the details... simple serving dishes, familiar flavor combos with a bold twist, and an ambiance that is as much like a cozy home as it is a chic restaurant.

The menu was daring and delicious. I ordered the steak and egg sandwich since I love breakfast at any time of day, and my friend Brian ordered the Crabcake Club, otherwise referenced as the C3. Both were rich with flavor, beautiful in presentation and surprisingly prompt to the table to be devoured. On top of the insanely flavorful sandwiches, the desserts they carried out were even simpler visually but vibrant in taste. The chocolate dessert, which Malarkey's dubs "the most insane Twix bar you have ever eaten" is beyond rich. The delicate lemon bar is a zesty breath of fresh citrus air. And the carrot cake ice cream sandwich (pictured below) was definitely the crowd favorite. The experience was a whirlwind of different flavors and scents in a hip homestyle setting and truly was the most memorable lunch I have had downtown.

"The idea is to get those with 30 minute lunches in and out in time to enjoy a gourmet lunch and make it back to work on time," stated General Manager Chris Puffer. And with a perfect mix of fabulous food, modern country decor and the excitement of a wide open kitchen, this is just the place to be transported to on your downtime from the office, or anywhere else for that matter.

Brittany & Brian gearing up for the meal

The Steak & Egg Sandwich

The Flank Team @ Searsucker

The AMAZING Carrot Cake Ice Cream Sandwich

Made of Sugar and Spice, and Everything Nice!

2010-11-24T10:53:00.000-08:00

Strangely enough for a SoCal native, fall is my favorite time of year. Football, leaves changing color, holiday parties, and MOST importantly the coveted annual Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. Each year, the lingerie trend setter puts together a fashion event of epic proportions. Complete with 5 themed runway sets, international superstar performances and behind the scenes interviews with supermodels like Marisa Miller and Alessandra Ambrosio, the VSFS is a collection of the most beautiful undergarments and boudoir pieces showcased by none other than the stunningly beautiful cast of Victoria's Secret's Angels.

This year, the performer chosen was none other than the sweet sexy Katy Perry, who's chart topping album blew her "I Kissed a Girl" single out of the water. With hits like "California Gurls" and "Teenage Dream" filling the commercial airwaves, it will be a breath of fresh girly-pop-air after last years performance by the synthesized sensation the Black Eyed Peas. Joining her on-stage this year will be Senegalese singer/songwriter/producer Akon.

One thing missing from this year's festivities will be Heidi Klum, arguably the face of Victoria's Secret since Tyra and Gisele's departures from the runway show. What a shame, since she has the most bangin' body of all the moms! In fact, in 2005, just two months after giving birth to her baby, she returned to the runway with a fierce figure and her loving husband Seal to welcome her on-stage. Just two years later in 2007, Heidi continued reigning the runway and joined Seal on-stage for a romantic duet that gave chills to the entire viewing audience.

This year is bound to be fantastic still, even without our German Princess guiding the way. Some secrets of the show: Adriana Lima will be making her post-baby debut by sporting the $2m Fantasy bra; the theme of the night is "A Thousand Fantasies", complete with sequins, feathers and insanely intricate wings only one could dream up; keep your ears peeled for Katy Perry's cover of Blondie's "Call Me".

Tune in 10/9c on Tuesday Nov. 30th for all the eye candy!

USB Fashion Show

2010-11-10T15:54:00.000-08:00

Last week, my buddy Max Zien returned from a business trip to Hong Kong bearing gifts for all of us girls. Being the thoughtful gentleman he is, he got us each something fitting for our individual personalities. For the far east traveler, a lucky buddha statue. For the princess, a one of a kind ring. For the foodie, a wine cork from the Hong Kong Food & Wine Festival. The latter sound like home girl was gypped. But in reality, this young lady got the most unusual gift of all... what we thought was a simple souvenir turned out to be a USB flash drive in disguise!

This incident, combined with my new career move and obsession with Mashable, has led to a slight infatuation with geeky gadgets with fashionable twists. Don't act so surprised! Fashionistas can be nerdy too, especially the ones who intend on being successful in their career. And these curious USB plug in's aren't just for fashionista's... there is a flavor for everyone!

For the photographer:

For the Rancho Santa Fe trophy wife:

For the paleontologist:

For the wino (Thanks Max!):

For the kids:

For the rappers:

For the New Yorker:

For the pescatarian:

For the groom:

For the cops:

Halloween opens the flood gates to Electronic Music Festivals in San Diego

2010-11-04T10:09:00.001-07:00

As San Diego grows in size and population, the lines between the norm and the new become more and more blurred. New scenes and phenomena are making their debut in San Diego now that the Finest City is being recognized for it's counterculture and hipster crowd. One of the most notable shifts in trends appearing in San Diego recently is the Electronic Music scene, which is more often associated with Miami or Los Angeles.

With large scale electronic music festivals popping up in Miami (WMC), New York (Electric Zoo), Los Angeles and Denver (EDC), it is to be semi expected that San Diego, next on the big city list, would follow suit. To me, San Diego's laid back vibe doesn't exactly correlate with the techno scene, bu with ever evolving collaborations filling the radio waves, I cannot say I am shocked. Although few attempts to bring a large scale electronic show have happened in the past year (Reset @ Sports Arena), it wasn't until the disaster at EDC happened last summer that artists started scouting out venues outside of Los Angeles for the Southern California stop on their concert tours. For those of you who did not see or hear the news following the Electric Daisy Carnival at the Coliseum this year, videos starting flooding the airwaves of underage concert goers getting trampled and stories of young girls overdosing on ecstasy starting surfacing. This catastrophic end to a usually peaceful festival caused an uproar in the electronic music scene, fueling rumors of future festival cancellation and casting a dark shadow of the electronic music scene as a whole.

To say that the electronic music scene is misunderstood is an understatement. The elements that comprise electronic music are drawn upon from all arenas of existing and futuristic genres of music, and have opened a lot of doors for mainstream music to engage a subculture that has only just been discovered in recent years. For a city like San Diego, who seems to be late catching on to trends related to anything but extreme sports, to recognize the existence and prevalence of this subculture is pretty awesome. And to celebrate it's revelation to the masses, San Diego hosted it's first Electronic Festival to date.

Heaven and Hell, put on at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, was the most hyped up concert event at the venue all year. Mimicking EDC it's big sister to the north, Heaven and Hell incorporated 3 stages, 6 internationally acclaimed DJ's, and 8 local artists up and coming on the scene. Previous Halloween raves have been attempted at different venues in San Diego, but the move to the DM Fairgrounds allowed the all night concert to reach a level it had never experienced before. With headliners like Dada Life, Hypercrush, Wolfgang Gartner and Fedde le Grand, those that were concerned Southern California would be wiped of the house music map were pacified and pleasantly surprised. Although I will admit the on stage light shows were seriously lacking relative to EDC, the sound was good, the crowd was pumped, and you couldn't help but feel an air of familiarity with the Sahara tent like structure filled with sweaty bodies bouncing to the beats.

Notable performances include Johnny James, a local favorite once comprising half of Istatic; Dada Life's rendition of Swedish House Mafia's "One", and of course Wolfgang Gartner's spooky jam "Undertaker", which was previously borrowed by the folks over at Monster Massive for their preview video. The smaller scale of this event (relative to the giants like WMC and Coachella) was nice, allowed for much more intimate interactions and if you were a local in attendance, some chance run in's with unexpected old faces. It would probably be in the Fairgrounds' best interest to keep this event for the long run... the only other action they get during the off season is the Rodeo and Annual Gun Show. How charmingly white trash! Step your game up San Diego, keep the beats coming!!!

Disturbing the Peace

2010-09-14T13:05:00.000-07:00

Although I haven't gotten to enjoy as many summer concerts as I expected or would have liked, last months Ludacris show at the Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach was one of the best shows I've seen in a while.

For those of you who haven't been or read any of my previous pieces on this venue, the Belly Up Tavern is not only a perfect image of San Diego's live music scene, but the Belly Up has been continually voted “San Diego’s Best Live Music Venue” by several publications including the Union Tribune, The Reader and San Diego Magazine as well as heralded as one of the hottest clubs on the west coast by Rolling Stone Magazine. The laid back look and feel is complete with surf memorabilia and giant stuffed shark hanging from the rafters, with lots of tasty beers on tap and the yummy Wild Note Cafe just next door.

Ludacris is a unique artist for this eclectic venue, chart topping the pop and hip hop Top 100 on a regular basis, appearing in multiple major motion pictures, and a half dozen hit albums under his belt. With such a large array of hits over a 10 year period, it is no wonder that his performance, sponsored by Miller Genuine Draft, was essentially a catalog of all of his most popular songs (at least those of his devoted fans). To Luda's pleasant surprise, fans front and center in the crowd donned old tour t-shirts and righteously propped up old album covers for Luda's autograph.

Ludacris went back in time to the very beginning, and took a cognac laden stroll through his musical career. Starting with his classic anthem "Southern Hospitality", he performed his party jams, R&B influenced hits, and more recent tracks. All the while, Luda promoted his new liquor Conjure Cognac by giving a quick press bit and pouring heavy drinks for the crowd. Recently, Luda appeared on Jay Leno to promote his newest business venture, demonstrating that "Conjure is a collaboration between the [himself] and the famed cognac house Birkedal Hartmann" (www.cognac.com).

Music (and smell, arguably) are the most potent nostalgia inducing agents, and this concert proved that. Hearing all the party hits from high school really took me back, and was a little glimpse into a time period I had forgotten for a minute. Even more, viewing the show from the upstairs balcony in one of the most timeless and killer venues in the country made the experience even that much sweeter!

I'm HOWLing For You

2010-07-07T20:55:00.000-07:00

In light of my obsession with music festivals and my allegience to Team Jacob (sorry bout it), I would like to do a highlight piece on one of my near and dear friends' new pet projects. With the inspirations of love and lust for life, in the glistening heat of South Beach, social butterfly and up-an-coming designer Tini Courtney has found her creative niche.

H.O.W.L., aptly standing for Handle Only With Love, is a business of love and labor for both Tini and her boyfriend/partner Jason Masik. The perfect pair of free spirited minds, the couple have created a unique and highly sought after steez that blends together high profile materials with whimsical notes of vintage Native American culture. Typically rocked in the contemporary layering style, H.O.W.L.'s chic and crafty pieces such a dreamcatchers, wrapped pendants and earrings capture the eclectic embrace of nature in fashion. "We live for the inspiration that consumes us by learning about the Earth, different cultures, and anything with a story behind it" say creators Tini & Jason. This language is universal, for the unique healing powers of each stone used and the time, love and energy put into each handcrafted piece truly speak to all people.

These one of a kind pieces can be found at a variety of stores in Miami (try Nightowl for more fun, spooky sexy stuff) or visit the H.O.W.L. website to view custom pieces and contact these two brilliant designers for some charms of your own!

Below, Alessandra Ambrosio sporting one of H.O.W.L.'s pieces at Coachella, one of my favorite designs featuring bullet adornments, and the dynamic duo H.O.W.L.ing about town...

Who needs 'Good Eats'? Here are the new Greats in town...

2010-06-04T15:29:00.000-07:00

As you are all very aware, I am a big foodie (and wino). Nothing sounds better to me than a relaxing night with good friends over a delicious, authentic meal and some delicious drinks that go down smooth. Well with a tight budget comes sacrifice, and now that I am back in the corporate trenches taking grenades, I have had to cut much of the delectable joy out of my life that I have previously indulged in.

But as my mother always taught me, MODERATION, not deprivation, is key in indulgences. So when the wallet dries up, you find ways to make money so you can still enjoy your simple pleasures. Mine just happen to be new, unique foods. And thankfully, San Diego is the perfect place to find an array of such treats. Below, find some of my freshly plucked picks from all around the map of this wonderful city.

El Camino- Cucina Mexicana in Little Italy
What was long time known as the infamous Airport Lounge on Juniper St., with its stewards and stewardesses behind the bar and modern lofty design, has been completely transformed into a contemporary, rustic, Mexican joint where the 80’s Karaoke night is almost as sought after as their famous taco’s and Sangria combo. With genius local designer Mauricio Couturier vamping up the space into something more funky, the ambiance has completely changed tone: forget the acrylic white light bars you previously leaned on at Airport, and think warm rich wood fixtures with vintage news articles plastering the surface. Instead of geometrically sound furniture, cozy banquettes line the walls to accompany the dimly candlelight tabletops. And the back patio with the awkward “rock garden” in the center? Replaced by tall tables full of barstools sitting under beautiful twinklelights separating diners from the passing flights landing at Lindburgh Field. The food is hearty and flavorful, and the Sangria is the best north of the border.

Pizzeria Bruno Napoletano- Park Ave. between Normal & El Cajon Blvd.
For those of you who love nothing more than a perfect pizza and glass of red wine in a quiet café, then this IS IT. Set in a quaint neighborhood somewhere between the throws of Normal Heights, North Park, and El Cajon is this new little gem that makes the most authentic Napoletano pizza in the city. If you are unfamiliar with the style of pizza us foodies are talking about, think thin, crispy, rustic, fresh, salivation inducing, mind blowing pizza. What makes this spot so authentic? How bout it’s basic menu of only about a dozen pizzas, all inspired by different Italian favorites like lasagna, fradiavlo, or even the simply delightful meats Italy is known for (salami, prosciutto, Italian sausage, oh my!). Or maybe its their certified Naples style pizza oven, that cooks pizza’s at a sweltering 1200 degrees in only 2 minutes. Either way, this place is not to be overlooked by the pizza afficianado. It may be in a random location, but even for me driving from Del Mar, this drive is definitely worth your while. Make sure to get the Margherita Pizza with the Mozzerella di Bufala, it is the tastiest thing in the world! And not to be missed, Peroni’s for only 3 bucks! Now you can’t beat that.

Bankers Hill Bar + Restaurant- the newest addition to chef Carl Schroeder’s arsenal of top picks among San Diego’s elite
Anyone who knows Carl’s food knows their stuff. The brains behind Arterra at the Del Mar Marriott and the mastermind behind the menu at the infamous Market in Del Mar (pictured below) has opened his third eatery in the hip neighborhood of South Park, completing his hat trick and hopefully covering all demographics that make up the lush foodies of San Diego. Known for using only the freshest ingredients to create the most complex forms of casual comfort food, Carl is rapidly gaining notoriety for being THE best chef in San Diego. But don’t be fooled by the list of junkie foods, “This is refined casual. Nothing tastes ordinary” , states Michele Parente of Sign On San Diego. It is all in his details, and any of his thousands of local fans can contest that his comforting menu is anything but mom’s cookin’. If you haven’t been to Market yet, it is a personal local fave of mine, but this new opening is sure to turn heads and make anyone a lifelong follower.

This year, with the recession slowing and entrepreneurs really using their cajones to follow their dreams, there are hundreds of new restaurants out there for you to explore. And the only way to share the love of food and wine is to dive right in! For more picks, check out 944’s May Issue for their top picks around town.

Festival Report: After the Hangover

2010-04-27T22:39:00.000-07:00

Well I am happy to report that I survived Coachella one more year, although I think I may have outdone myself this year. I pushed the limits this time around, purchasing the newly mandatory three-day pass and even getting work off to be able to attend each day. In an attempt to preserve the true festivilites, Coachella only sold three-day passes- a first time for the festival that has previously welcomed single day attendees. I have to admit, overcoming the financial hardship took time (they offered layaway in case I was doing really shitty), but with a killer line up laced with big time international superstars Jay Z, Tiesto, and Thom Yorke of Radiohead, the decision was simple.

So I bought my ticket. I spent month dreaming of the set times, half fearful I would miss out on some seriously epic performances, half stoked recalling floating from stage to tent catching glimpses of a megamix of all my favorite bands and DJs. They only released the set times 2 days before the festival, so the remainder of the time was like torture, thinking up all the combinations that would bode well or change the experience... total anxiety (in a good way)!

I cruised out with a caravan of home girls from San Diego, who all met in the oasis of Indian Wells, only four miles from the venue. I was in one of the later cars, and when we arrived, the air was warm and the house was full of friends, just discussing expectations and hopes and rumors of the festival, and celebrating a long weekend away from home with great company.

Waking up Friday was much easier than I had anticipated. A couple of us picked up groceries and cooked up a hearty breakfast for the group, since we would likely be hoarding our cash for booze and cabs throughout the weekend. Eggs, bacon, bagels and mimosas woke up the group and got the day started off right. On top of it, mini festival swag bags and custom Ezekiel Coachella t-shirts were provided which got everyone really excited. Running out the gates, the group perused pool parties around the La Quinta area where live DJs spun the tunes in store for the weekend (or so we had hoped) and kids from LMU, USC, Boulder and many others collided. Around 4 we made our way to the fest, through traffic, angry hippies, and sweltering heat to the clusterfuck that was Coachella. After splitting up into twos, getting shoved around from entrance to entrance, and being shafted on wristbands, we all made it into the grounds to ensue in the most fantastic weekend ever.

The first act we got to see was Cambridge born electric phenomenon Passion Pit. We sang and danced for about three or four songs before we had to make our way over to the Sahara Tent for Pretty Lights. This group, hailing from MY FAVORITE city Boulder, CO, samples hip hop and soul tracks on thumping beats and created the perfect soundtrack for Friday's lineup. Pretty Lights proved to be one of the best, and sweatiest, shows we watched that day. After Pretty Lights, we passed through La Roux, who after a slow start and wayyyy too quiet of speakers, killed it with her hit singles Bulletproof and In for the Kill. Afterwards we skipped through Echo and the Bunnymen over to LCD Soundsystem where we crossed paths with old friends and danced around sleepy hippies. With a couple lost soldiers along the way, a few of us had a brief intermission in the Beer Garden where I ran into my dear friend Carli Roth, of DBD Events.

After gathering the rest of the gang, we witnessed the spectacle that was Jay-Z's performance. Tens of thousands of fans gathered around the massive Main Stage for the headliner of the festival. Most show goers argued that Jay-Z's set alone would likely compensate for the three day pass cost because his tickets are usually so pricey anyways. Well HOVA proved us all right! His performance was like a catalog of all his greatest works (that he could fit in that amount of time). He started with his newer tracks and singles off the Blueprint, and then worked his way back, all the way to "Jigga What?" and "Big Pimpin". The latter was signified by Jay's request of the entire Coachella crowd to wave their shirts, jackets, hats, whatever in the air so it would "look like carnivale". With a sea of fans bouncing in front of him, Jay-Z was accompanied by Memphis Bleak and wife Beyonce for "Forever Young". Other notable moments: Obama's bit of him brushing his shoulders off during a White House speech, throw back "I'm a Hustla Baby", and his mind blowing entrance- from under the stage-to the opening song "Run This Town".

Although we thought we would have time for deadmau5 afterwards, we didn't, so we all attempted to get to the car and beat traffic. Bad idea. Three hours later, we were still in the same spot, motionless in the parking lot. Screaming with agony, pain and anxiety, our car full of complaining girls FINALLY got home at 4:30 am (the show ended at 12:30...). Too exhausted to party, we all changed, unwound for a bit with the rest of the group who had been partying the whole time. We discussed the highlights of the day and looked over the next days attractions until we all crashed out just before sunrise.

Saturday morning, waking up was harder than I thought. With the first bout of soreness and fatigue, we slowly rolled out of bed and cleaned ourselves up to head to a friends house in La Quinta. Once we combined forces, the madness really began. With amateur photographers armed and ready, we played wiffleball, consumed lots of alcohol, and caught up on each others lives since most of us hadn't seen each other since the glory days in Boulder. When it was time to head out, we hailed a bunch of cabs to get us to the venue without having to worry about the previous nights disasterous demise.

Saturday's sets got off to a late start for the majority of us, causing us to miss The Temper Trap, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, and the xx. We got there in time for Bassnectar, where I split from the group to get close for my two favorites from EDC last year: Kaskade and David Guetta. Kaskade began with giant featherweight bubble balls and kicked off an incredible set featuring 4AM, Move for Me, and Angel on my Shoulder (among others). Kaskade is so happy go lucky in the techno/trance world, it is always such a pleasure seeing him perform. After Kaskade, however, was the real treat. David Guetta, who I fell in love with when I first heard him during a Victorias Secret Fashion Show many many years ago, was amazzzzzzing!!! Not only did he play an array of his best songs, like Kaskade, but he remixed them in a completely new way that had never been heard before. He started off with There's No Getting Over, then On the Dancefloor got the crowd bouncing and uber pumped up, Flashback with Calvin Harris, and then an INSANE remix of "The World is Mine", "Show Me Love" by Robin S., "Put Ya Fucking Hands Up" and "Shots" by Lil Jon. Many more hits and remixes filled his set, but it wasn't until later on in the show during a Prodigy Remix that the giant neon robots with laserbeam and smoke guns appeared by his sides.

After Guetta came Z-Trip, infamous for being a pioneer of the mash up movement and for resorting to only vinyl on his turn tables. I had never heard him or seen him before, but the mix of the Guetta glow, the Z-trip crowd and the mashed up mix of old school hip hop, rock, and improvised beats was awesome. Sample Menu from the Z: “Paper Planes” (M.I.A.)/”Jane Says” (Jane’s Addiction), “Hip Hop Hooray” (Naughty by Nature)/”Shout” (Tears for Fears), and “Sweet Child O’Mine” (Guns N’ Roses)/”Uptight (Everything’s Alright)” (Stevie Wonder). Although I was forced to miss Muse for this, Muse will be returning to San Diego in September WITH Passion Pit, so it worked out pretty well for me. After Z-Trip, I met back up with the masses and headed back to the mainstage in an attempt to catch the end of Muse, which we failed miserably at by getting lost in the neon forest and pagoda castle area where we called home base.

The final bite for the night was Tiesto, an internationally acclaimed DJ I have been looking forward to seeing since I first started listening to techno and house music. Although his light displays weren't as good as the Sahara Tent acts (in all fairness, neither did Jay Z), he tore the house down with everything from the trancey "Adaggio for Strings" to "Escape Me". Although we had to unfortunately miss Imogen Heap Saturday, Tiesto paid homage to the lady by remixing the famed "Hide and Seek". This was the perfect combination of tracks to bring the electric crazy pop evening.

Following the show, we had a two mile walk to a cab that would finally take us home instead of going back to the festival cab line, and got home in time for a few drinks and re cap's with friends before crashing again. In fact, throughout the festival and after party, most of us (not all) drank so much we completely blew off the festival Sunday in lieu of a pool party in the backyard with our neighbors, fellow festivalites. We bumped our own mix of the weekend's heavy hitters and soaked in rays until we all turned crispy.

The drive home was pretty rough, but not as rough as the next 3 days of Coachella withdrawals. Watching live footage of the performances, uploading massive amounts of pictures, and chatting with the group around the country did not suffice, although it made being home less depressing. Even though the weekend had to come to an end, the memories of the music and the good friends that surrounded us will last a lifetime. Below are pictures of some of the weekend's highlights.

Runway At The Park: Behind the Red Ropes

2010-03-22T20:31:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, there is only one thing I love more than throwing a good party, and that is designer clothes. To keep up with my love of all things stylish and to pursue my dreams of becoming an all knowing fashionista, my dear friend Glenn Osborne and I have started our own production company to coordinate the most sought after, fabulous, chic fashion shows in all of Southern California. Saturday, March 13th marked the debut of GO Fashion Productions brilliance and was only a small taste of the extraordinary ideas that GO Fashion has to offer.

The kickoff show was a high class cocktail party on the rooftop penthouse of the Park Manor Suites in Hillcrest on 5th and Spruce. The vintage hotel, once a condo building and the home for a wealthy businessman, is a trip back into the old world with its elaborate thrones collected around the world and crystal chandeliers throughout the halls. With Gretchen Productions and 944 Magazine by their sides, the GO Fashion team was able to put together and execute a swank evening of couture, champagne and candle lit corners to people watch and play in. The runway show featured Betsey Johnson, Gordana Gelhausen, Tracy Jean, ABBL Swimwear and La Chica Chic. The garments were spring fresh, boasting little black dresses, summery day wear, vintage inspired separates and teenie bikinis.

Lady Gaga, Madcon and Seal were just a few remixed songs making up the soundtrack of the evening, and chill trance and house on the one's and two's in the VIP reception area overlooking the moon lit Balboa Park. An opera performance by one of the stunning models was a breathtaking surprise, and was truly the cherry on the cupcake after a sweet runway show. Hair and Makeup by the badass chicks of A Style Concierge, swag from RedBull, Amp Energy, iTan, and more. Below, is a picture of the GO Fashion team and friends that made Runway at the Park happen.

For more info on upcoming GO Fashion events, stay tuned or email me!

If I had a world of my own, everything would be nonsense.

2010-03-22T20:19:00.000-07:00

In a time when films are attempting to think up dark and imaginative story lines, and while audiences are craving fantastic escapes from reality, an old Disney classic was reborn. Based loosely off of Lewis Carroll's fairytale Through the Looking Glass, Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland has sparked an eruption of fashion statements and adult tea parties. For 944 San Diego's March Release, what trendier theme than an Alice and Wonderland theme party? And why not take it a step further and host the premiere event at Syrah Wine Lounge in the Gaslamp?

Syrah on Fifth Ave. in the heart of downtown San Diego is an ode to Alice; a discreet grimy staircase down to a dimly lit nondescript door mark the start of the journey down the rabbit hole. Once behind the underground door, moss and ivy scale the walls surrounding a room adorned with plush furniture, faux fireplaces, and tea party decor.

Butterflies and cocktail waitresses in fairytale dresses fluttered around the venue, while a Johnny Depp/Mad Hatter look alike performed magic tricks for VIP guests. The drinks, as usual, were delicious, the beats were dope, and the crowd was looking good and having fun.. the perfect recipe for a 944 launch.

Weekday Worker Bees, Come Out and Play

2010-02-11T21:47:00.001-08:00

It's always easy to find something to do or somewhere to go on a Friday or Saturday night. But for those of us that work all week and live for the daylight hours on the weekends, staying up late and spending the weekend afternoons hungover is not an option. Similarly, those worker bees like myself usually enjoy indulging in the commonly desired after work cocktail during the week. Well for those in my neck of the woods looking for some week night activities, you have come to the right place.

Although the nightlife crowd in San Diego stays pretty constant downtown, up in North County, the tide is always changing. In the summer, everyone comes out of the wood works to enjoy the warm evening and drink a cold beer. During the holidays, some of the summer crowd go into hibernation, but all the out of towners come home and flood the bars. In between breaks, however, a steady and strong local crowd remains constant.

There are many facets of North County from the the beachside bourgoise of Del Mar, up to the cool comfortable village of Carlsbad, and all the sleepy surfer towns in between. Per the request of fellow blogger and fashionista Erica, I have listed my top picks for your week nights to be spent in North County:

MONDAY:
For the hipster crowd, start off with a beer at Beachside Bar & Grill in Encinitas, and move north around 10pm to Dirty Mondays at the Daley Double Saloon. Heavy hands pour the drinks and spin the ones and twos. Resident DJ Gabe Vega has brought together quite the following, and with the Saloon's infamous industry night appropriately dubbed Dirty Monday has attracted emo kids, surfers and socialites from all corners of the city. For a more upscale evening, try Martini Monday at Delicias where bombshell bartender Lauryn serves up the most delightful drinks in town.

TUESDAY:
Taco Tuesday is a communal day of celebration in San Diego, and the options are essentially endless. To move beyond the standard spots like World Famous and Fred's, try the fresh fish tacos and a glass of chardonnay at the Brigantine in Del Mar. If you're willing to drive a bit further north, Carlsbad's Norte is the best deal in North County: $2 street tacos of any kind, and $2 Tecates. If you've still got some energy after all that food, En Fuego is the Tuesday night spot to see and be seen.

WEDNESDAY:
Start at Zenbu in Cardiff for some tasty rolls and $5 champagne glasses. Once you've got a healthy buzz going, head south to the renowned Jimmy O's in Del Mar for karaoke night among the locals. To avoid the glitz and glamour and masses, try a low key dive night around Cardiff. The Office and The Shanty are too old school joints plastered in surf or sport paraphernalia where you can strike up a good conversation and really savor your drink without getting a headache or a drink spilled on you.

THURSDAY:
Dedicate one of your nights to the laid back style of Solana Beach. Start with some pizza, beer buddies, and pitchers of the Cardiff Chronic amber ale to get toasty at Pizza Port before heading up to Cedros Ave where the Belly Up Tavern is nestled into one of the most unique artist districts in California. Pizza Port, a local favorite for grub and grog, boasts some of the most intricate, complex and tasty beer lists, all brewed in house. Their beer buddies are to DIE for, and are the perfect meal to be washed down with some cold delicious beer. Once you get going, head up Cedros Ave. and take a peek into some of the local furniture, clothing and gift shops that Solana Beach has to offer. About halfway down the drag, you'll hit the Belly Up Tavern, voted San Diego's best live music venue. Every night you can catch a show, and they don't just book up and coming acts or local fave's... they also feature big touring acts, amazing cover/tribute bands, and stand up comedy acts.

Attempting to Contain My Excitement, and Failing Miserably.

2010-02-11T20:30:00.000-08:00

Every year, the anticipation leading up to music festival season is tenacious, distracting, and adrenaline pumping. The first of many renowned festivals kicks off the summer in late April in the desert oasis of Southern California. Indio, surrounded by the more populated towns of Palm Springs, Indian Wells and Borrego, is a small town centralized by the well known and loved venue for COACHELLA MUSIC FESTIVAL. Last year was my first year attending any part of the weekend long love fest, and I only got a small taste of what would be my adult spring break in years to come. The heat is pretty intense, temperatures range in the low hundreds, and only minor shade and outrageously overpriced water are present throughout the day. This year, though, the heat will not keep me from my music. Tickets to this years Coachella are three day passes only, as opposed to the option to buy single day passes like in years past. So if I am going to be dropping a car payment on a concert, I am milking it for all it's worth, baby.

This years lineup represents the hip hop, alternative, electro, indie and rock genres with heavy hitting international acts to rising stars from music rich cities like Brooklyn, San Diego, Austin and Denver. Who am I most excited to see? Although performers have been chosen, the schedule of sets has yet to be announced, and won't be until just a few weeks before the show. If I could mix and match my top picks into my ideal line-up, it would go as follows:

FRIDAY
Little Dragon
Them Crooked Vultures
Iglu & Hartley
Vampire Weekend
Passion Pit
La Roux
Benny Benassi
deadmau5
Jay Z

SATURDAY
Camera Obscura
Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros
Corinne Bailey Rae
The Raveonettes
The xx
Sia
Kaskade
David Guetta
MGMT
Hot Chip
Muse
Tiesto

SUNDAY
Spoon
The Soft Pack
Julian Casablancas
Matt & Kim
Miike Snow
Phoenix
De La Soul
Gorillaz
Thom Yorke

For full listings of artists, visit Coachella's website.

Ocho Cinco Rides Dirty to Prep for Playoffs

2010-01-06T14:46:00.000-08:00

For the past few days I have been sleeping like an angel, courtesy of moving back into my parents place, and have been quite the early riser. So what's a princess supposed to do for the few hours leading up to work? Breakfast is out of the question. A long shower only occupies about a quarter of an hour. So I started following my mom's footsteps, and have taken to enjoying a morning tea while watching Live with Regis & Kelly. Although I must admit Regis has irked me since the Who Wants to be a Millionaire days, since his hip replacement, he has grown on me a bit. And Kelly Ripa is, without question, one of the cutest moms on daytime tv since Carol Brady. She wears the cutest outfits, has a drop dead gorgeous husband, and 2 adorable children to brag about. She cracks cheesy jokes, teases Regis about his old age, and could just fit right into her giant coffee mug.

This morning, a small story struck my gut and made me crack up. For those of you who check my facebook, you will know that a recent interview with Cincinatti Bengals' Chad Johnson (now Chad Ocho Cinco and quite possibly in the future, Chad Child Please) shed some light on an injury he acquired before the Bengals/Jets game on Monday. Before starting the game, in which he did not catch one complete pass, he twisted his knee while running a routine drill. After a poor performance by Chad and his fellow Bengals, many fans were concerned the injury would find Ocho Cinco inoperable for the rematch against the Jets approaching this weekend, especially after the recent loss of wide receiver Chris "Slim" Henry. Thankfully, Regis shared with Live viewers this morning that Ocho Cinco has calmed all worry when he assured fans his knee injury that he sustained last week passed the "crazy bedroom test" in which vigorous sexual activity deemed the knee "in good condition" for this weekends home game. Good thing Chad's "extra curricular" activities are conducive to his physical form or else Bengals fans could kiss the second round of the play off's goodbye.

Swing in the New Year

2010-01-04T12:24:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the recession and many years of lackluster New Years Eve's, I decided to throw my own little shin dig to ring in the new year with a few friends and keep things low key. However, when one throws a party in a time of financial crisis, it is hardly worth the effort if one is willing to sacrifice the class and fun in a holiday party. Being that I am inspired by all things pretty, whether its in books, the media or fashion, I decided to give my cocktail party a vintage twist with a speakeasy theme. Attire worn was drawn upon the flappers and newsboys of the 20's, along with the early century gangsters, speak easy's of prohibition and the glamour of the pin up girl's of the late 40's and early 50's.

The love of all things vintage and glamourous is also reflected on the runway and in major motion pictures. One of 2009's most unique and lucrative films, Nine, is a musical romance depicting the life and love traingle (or hexagon, more appropriately) of a famed movie director in the late 1950's into the 1960's. Costumes, make up and music reflect on a time of the past and give an air of fantasy to the viewer.

In runway news, Louis Vuitton had one of its most successful runway shows in years at the 2010 Spring preview this fall. In addition to modern preppy and bright color palette inspirations, the unparalleled glamour shown in his middle segment definitely drew upon our elders in the earlier part of the 20th century. Sweeping black gowns adorned with rich emerald green coats, large ruby red bows and the distinct air of wealth and aristocracy was reminiscent of the upper class of the 40's and 50's and represented both a tendency for androgynous pieces and a love for offsetting with super feminine pieces.

Even starletts and icons are sporting fashions of the past. Diane Kruger, Kate Hudson, and Dita von Teese have incorporated the once revered pin curls of the 1920's in their red carpet looks. Johnny Depp is fond of the larger cut zoot suit-esque three piece, which he dons on the red carpet as well as out on fancy social outings.

Check out pics from our New Years shin dig and be inspired by decades past in the new year!

Night of the Dragon at Zenbu in Cardiff

2009-12-18T11:32:00.000-08:00

For you industry mongrels and pro ho's that didn't make it out to Cardiff on Wednesday for Dragon's Weird Fest, you missed out on one of the best holiday parties this year. What made this shin dig so awesome? Well for one, it wasn't a Christmas party, which was a relief since most of us are sick of the ugly sweaters and red/green limitations. Secondly, it was held at the newest Zenbu location in the trendy Cardiff area. Third? The delicious sushi, of course. And lastly, the event was hosted by Dragon, an action sports retailer, locally infamous for their epic parties. The goal of the party was to celebrate "their number 1 team rider Mick Fannings claim of his second world title". Sponsors included Rockstar Limo and U4IK Vodka, and Zenbu even donated some free sushi to VIP attendees.

Props to Dragon for the sick sunglasses display in the saltwater aquarium. Thanks to Cory McGilvery for the epic photos. And of course, thanks Loren for throwing another weird/fun/amazing bash.

Give. Get. Feel. Good.

2009-12-18T11:02:00.000-08:00

It's always to see a community come together and give to a great cause. Isn't that what the Holiday spirit is all about? Amongst all the stuffy country club fundraisers and holiday work parties, a fab collab resulted in an uber-successful charity event this week in North County.

On Monday night, Give. Get., a clothing drive benefitting the San Diego Alpha Project, was hosted at Captain Keno's in Encinitas. One of the most reputable homeless benefitting charities in San Diego, "Alpha Project provides the homeless with the tools they need to be the very best they can be. Founded in 1986 as a simple project offering work opportunities for homeless men, today Alpha Project operates numerous programs, serving over 2,000 people monthly."

Attendees were asked to simply bring in whatever clothes they wanted to donate to the homeless, and in return, were given raffle tickets to be used to win prizes donated by a slew of action sports companies, as well as local businesses (Hence the "give/get" concept). Donations were made by: Adio, Altamont, Brixton, Chocolate, DC, Dragon, és, emerica, etnies, Girl, HairDrezzersOnFire.com x James Mendoza, Henning, Mystery, Pony Attack, Reef, RVCA, Royal, ThirtyTwo, WESC, Zero, and Zico (a whole case of coconut water!).

The event, held at the charming pirate bar Captain Keno's, was hosted by Athena and Svedka, and featured promo models, a futuristic photo booth, and delicious drink specials. The local hideaway spot was appropriately decorated with an array of Christmas decor, including a lovely tree in the center of the bar/lounge. The drinks were stiff, the ribs were a hit, and the gifts were great. The turnout was also pretty prime; huge piles of trashbags filled with clothes were donated by guests, and most people came away with one of the sweet gift packages.

Hopefully all the positive responses will generate an annual event, and hopefully it will become even more successful as years progress. Thanks to Luke Van Voorhis for putting on such a successful event for such a great cause, and thanks to those who donated!

Ode to my Bestie!

2009-12-15T15:52:00.000-08:00

One of my nearest and dearest (and oldest) friends, Erica "Bagel" Stolman, has crafted another noteworthy blog dedicated to anything and everything fashionable. Whether its an icon, an item, or an idea, my little E-bear loves to write about all that is couture. Friends that follow us, and share a passion for fashion, also like to introduce and add ideas and tidbits to our little blogs on the regular. This week, our homeboy Griffin (aka Grif Balls) brought to our attention a one of a kind item for auction that may or may not be the most fashionable cartoon memorabilia in history. Meet Karl Lagerfeld's Sponge Bob Square Pants.

According to hypebeast.com, "Karl Lagerfeld attracted the highest bid at a recent Paris fundraiser for WWF, generating 1,000 Euros (Approx. $1,499 USD) ". Who would have thought others existed that shared a love for Sponge Bob and Chanel. Way to go Karl, on another inspirational work of art!

Follow my girl, E-bear at her couture cornucopia.

Norton Knows Best

2009-12-15T14:44:00.000-08:00

I like to discover and plug local photographers, since I share such a passion for the photographic art and interesting perspective. For almost two years I have been living back in San Diego tearing up my old stomping ground, and one name keeps coming up. NORTON.

“James Norton, a local resident of South Park San Diego has been literally capturing life at its best. Covering some of the most exclusive fashion shows and the hottest night club spots, James’ sharp eye and keen skills are masked only by his laid back and carefree attitude.” - San Diego Downtown News - April 2008

The kind, carefree, witty man behind the lense is known for his candid black and white snapshots, and most recently I became a huge fan of his fashion editorial work. His shots capture action in every form... in people, in their surroundings, in lighting, objects, garments, structures. Everything about his photos are sexy, sharp and immediately draw you into the seductive worlds of parties, fashion and musics. Deemed San Diego's premier nightlife photographer, Norton maintains his title by constantly attending the hottest events and showcasing the people and places he works with in his fantastic works. His cool personality doesn't hurt either; He is the type of guy you want to be around, and if you aren't then you probably should be. If you are fortunate enough to get spotted in one of his snapshots, consider yourself a part of something truly one of a kind. With his good shaggy haired head straight on his shoulders, his top of the line equipment, creative eye and raw talent, this guy is gonna be going places. And you might want to follow because there's always a party when Norton's around.

Check out more about Norton and his sick shots here. For a taste of his style, check out some photos below of yours truly and some local industry friends.

Spread Christmas Cheer with Free Cookies and Beer!

2009-12-15T14:23:00.000-08:00

To kick of the long road of parties ahead, I began my holiday round robin with Volcom's 4th Annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Party at the Saloon in Encinitas (my favorite bar in San Diego). Ugly Sweater parties, in my opinion, are a nice combination of silly and festive, and are a chance for holiday enthusiasts to spread Christmas cheer with fellow partiers. This party was no exception: A colorful array of ensembles made up the sea of people that filled the Saloon last Wednesday evening. Everything from tacky and tasteless oldies pulled out from the winter cabin to homemade creations composed of bows, bells and lights were represented, and even some onesie pajamas made it out of the Christmas stash.

The free beer was flowing, everyone was on a good one, and trays of Christmas cookies were being served by Santa's lovely little helpers in their own holiday flair. Local favorite at the saloon Gabe Vega was responsible for the dope soundtrack of the event, and his killer mash up's and electro taste set the scene for an epic dance floor. My girl Marissa and I sported some vintage Adolfo coats, courtesy of my glamourous grandmother, with shiny shoes, pearls, and decorative headpieces (my new obsession, for those who didn't read my piece from the Thread show last week). Other top notch looks: my good friend Tommy's light up snowy mountain village sweater made by his mother, Jordan of Volcom's sweet shark suit, and a chill guy sporting an American flag denim vest with long luscious locks... killer.

Thanks to Volcom for kicking off the holiday season to a great start, and thanks to my boy Brandon Ghio for the pics from the party!

All I Want For Christmas

2009-12-12T15:08:00.000-08:00

ALL THE HEELS I WANT FOR XMAS! please & thank you! :D by katrinabalbuena featuring Christian Louboutin shoes

Items in this set:
Christian Louboutin Studio 120 peep-toe pumps, $1,895
Womens Main Floor Shoes at Barneys New York, $1,795
Womens Main Floor Shoes at Barneys New York, $1,049
Christian Louboutin Ulona 140 platform sandals, $1,695
Alexander-McQueen Boots - Leather Peep-toe Boots, 833 EUR

Thank you to my girl Katrina for posting this on facebook! I die for every single one of these shoes, if Santa even let me have half a pair of these beauties I would be good every single year! The studs, peep toes, satin bows and black lace is all so stunning and heavenly, they make a girl just want to live out her fashion fantasies. I have to admit shoes are my biggest vice, even more than fine wine or dirty martini's. There is nothing that makes a woman feel sexier than a brand new pair of designer shoes to take her through her adventures on the town. So fellas, while we are cooking our way to your hearts, please be a dear and stop by Neiman's on your way home from the office to pick up a pair of dream shoes for your honey. What more could you ask for: a Christmas gift that keeps bringing joy year round to your lady? Sounds like a dream come true!

Fall Food Find

2009-12-09T14:45:00.000-08:00

A few months ago, a cute little cafe/bistro opened up down the street from our Solana Beach store on Cedros Ave. Claire's has already gained a great reputation for their fresh ingredients, contemporary menu choices and warm inviting atmosphere, so it was only a matter of time before I tried the place out myself.

What a better day to enjoy an afternoon walk and lunch than this Fall Wednesday, 2 days out of a treacherous rainstorm (for us, ha), a crisp 58 degrees, in the artist district on Cedros. I decided to spend this week 'previewing' shops for potential christmas gifts for the family, and am on day 2. Today, i visited Leaping Lotus for a bit, checking out one of a kind local made goodies for my parents, and hunger struck my stomach like a lightning bolt to metal. It was perfect timing, I had some time before work, and wanted a fall salad and a cool iced tea to get me through my shift.

Immediately upon entering, I felt like a regular. Large parties filled the crowded room of tables, and a friendly waitress escorted me to a lovely table outside on the back patio, next to a waterfall. Inside, a busy bakery and barista counter in the back showcased an array of baked goods from pumpkin cheesecake to blueberry muffins. The ambiance was semi-reminiscent of Thyme in the Ranch, but less shabby chic and more modern rustic. The architecture of the building was angular, industrial, yet familiar... the slates of gray stone that created the face and walls of the restaurant reminded me of many of the newer homes in Del Mar.

My table was pleasantly placed next to a waterfall fountain and out of the direct sun, which would have been nice on this brisk day. In any case, the patio was comfortable, quiet, and an easy place for one to enjoy lunch for one. I ordered the Pear & Beet Salad with goat cheese and candied pecans off of the new fall menu, with my signature iced tea (very sweetened of course, like we drink it in the South). To my dismay, now that the holidays are here and I try and cut carbs where I can, a roll escorted my salad to lunch. However, to my surprise, it was the most delicious roll I have ever eaten. Not the type of bread that you want to eat 5 pieces of, but a perfect one roll dose of delicious pumpkin bread that complimented my spiced salad divinely. The meal was delicate and delicious and didn't overstuff me like most meals around the holidays.

So for those looking for a casual, but contemporary dining experience during breakfast, brunch, or lunch, try Claire's for some fresh fall ingredients and awesome ambiance. There's something on the menu for everyone, and afterwards, you can walk it off to any of your favorite shops on Cedros!

Dear Santa

2009-12-08T10:58:00.000-08:00

Once Thanksgiving has passed and the Christmas spirit starts to settle in, one contemplates what they think they deserve and what they would die for if Santa would only put you on the Nice list. Most of us with good taste, however, typically make the Naughty list, so my list is merely wishful thinking. With the economy in such shambles, Christmas is predicted to be less bountiful in most households than years of Christmas past. Nonetheless, even though times are tough and wallets are tight, I have been able to find some pretty f*&%ing fabulous finds on my favorite shopping websites.

I have always been a fan of Steve Madden but when his playful designs go on sale, my heart really starts to flutter. His Cuddless bootie in a flirty fuschia is the perfect hybrid of hipster and feminine. For only $100, you get designer duds in a rich suede, a comfortable fit, and a bangin color that will add a punch to any outfit.

Since my obsession with pin-up girls began, and most recently when attending Thread, I have been so intrigued and in love with feathered hairpieces. Head bands and clips, with feathers and flowers are so ethereal and inspiring, they add a touch of glamour to any pretty face. I just bought a beautiful rouge and black feathered hair clip adorned with vintage gold jewelry from Rachel Larraine at Thread, but I just want to buy more in every color! At Nordstrom's, Tasha's "feathered friend" headband in teal or purple are both vibrant starbursts of color, perfect against a bright blonde or rich chocolate brunette (or in my case, a deep auburn).

At Intermix online, my guilty pleasure, the 'Gifts Under $250' proved to have some interesting finds, which is typically unheard of. Lauren Urstadt's Cropped Chain Leather Gloves (for $155) are an edgy accessory for those of us with deep rooted loves for leather. But if you are less of a renegade and more of a romantic, the dreamy racoon fur muffler scarf by Adrienne Landau is pricey, but so elegant I can imagine it being worn by a famous actress on a cruise ship in the early 20th century, think Kate Winslet in Titanic or a dressed up Naomi Watts in King Kong.

It is nice to see that department stores and heavy trafficked sites are breaking prices in accordance with the holidays. Working in retail, I see the ugly reality of the economy everyday. There's hope yet for my fellow fashionistas, though, thanks to compliant vendors and generous manufacturers. Even big name designers are starting to catch on that people are willing to sacrifice cost for style, since there are so many more affordable options these days. And the best thing about thrifty shopping, of course, is that even if Santa puts me on the Naughty List, I can probably scrounge some change up to treat myself to a few nice gifts :)

Get Your Thread In The Game

2009-12-07T10:45:00.000-08:00

Since I am not in the typical fashion mecca's of NYC or LA, I try to stay as linked into the San Diego fashion scene as one can be. Other than ASR, there are not many large scale productions where you can view upcoming collections for next season, or even get to sample more than a few local lines lost among a sea of mainstream brand names. Thread is a bi-annual show, held in SF and SD every year, that boasts local designers and hip up and coming trendsetters that are taking the fashion world by storm one boutique at a time. Buyers and shoppers are of equal value, and drinks flow like the Pacific Ocean tide. A culmination of music, art, fashion and events come together for a two day celebration of all things chic before the rest of the world gets to hear or see their genius.

This year, I attended Thread Fashion Show, with my fellow fashionista Erica, at the old Wonderhaus Bakery building downtown on 14th St. The entryway where guests checked in was adorned with gorgeous globes by TEND that were filled with miniature landscapes like little vignettes transparently floating midair. The space was industrial and open, and filled with booths of clothing, accessories and one of a kind jewelry. What makes Thread such a hit among fashionistas is it isn't just for those of us that work in the industry, they welcome all shoppers as well and possess a wide array of ready to wear goodies for everybody. Notable booths to stop & revel at: the stunning feathered hair accessories by Rachel Larraine and HEADCRAZED, the chunky chic and vibrant vintage neacklaces by Micha Designs (below), and the beautiful boho designs of Babykakes.

Key social issues expressed in this years show was the green movement and the demand for wallet friendly options in the recession. On their website, Thread promotes alternative transportation by encouraging bike riding instead of driving. An array of eco friendly lines were in attendance. "This new section at THREAD focuses exclusively on eco-fashion and sustainability" says Thread's website. The green movement continues with the preservation of greenbacks... This year, the annual event had a 'swap section' where new or barely used items could be donated to a shelter or traded for items among other shoppers and donators. Those that donated a bag of clothing received a discount upon entry, while those that donated 10 items of clothing, could choose 5 items to swap. This was obviously an instant hit, since those who love to shop as much as I do like to save a pretty penny wherever we can, especially if it means purging our overflowing closets even the slightest bit.

The local support at the event was very visible, as well. The Sezio booth upstairs featured custom screen printing on basic tee's and scarves to take home and wear that day. The local non-profit company "provide[s] resources, exposure and community support to artists and musicians through a variety of new media, events, retail and community programs". Local infamous nightlife photographer James Norton was also featured at the event, exclusively providing photos of attendees and models alike. And GOGA by Gordana, a new brand to the San Diego fashion scene with a just-opened location on Market St. downtown, was featured and promoted by the Project Runway runner up who's creative genius makes up her namesake clothing line. I also saw some familiar faces from the Ocean Beach Farmer's Market: local jewelry designers Coco Loco and internationally inspired handbag designer Chi Stylezs, both of who's works can be viewed on Newport Ave. in OB on Wednesday afternoons.

The highlight of the trends being shown at the event was the twice daily runway show, hosted by one other than Gordana. The catwalk production we attended featured some of the top designers at the trade show, including: Jeans 4 Justice, Holiday Matinee, Supastar Co., and a mens underwear line that stood out due to the male models personality peppered walks that made all the female guests melt. The catwalk was covered in astro-turf and was held in a concrete room, giving it a sub-urban feel typical of Thread. The composition of different designers gave the show a segmented perspective varying from half-naked and whimsical, to politically charged and intentional.

In addition to the runway shows and booths featuring over 100 up and coming brands, A Style Concierge hosted a free hair and makeup booth, which was conveniently set up directly next to James Norton's photo booth where attendees were photographed sipping champagne cocktails in their hot new threads. Vin De Syrah was also present at the event, hosting an Alice & Wonderland themed lounge with a free wine tasting of some of the wine parlor's new labels. Upstairs, was a photography and art exhibit showing off the works of local artists, where you could sip cocktails and get a free massage by Chiropractique.

It is no wonder that San Fran and San Diego are the only two select locations chosen to uphold the hip reputation Thread has created over the years. The amenities, local support, and political savvy of the event made for a sharp, swank afternoon spent among fashion producers and consumers, alike, and really showed off the local flavor that our beloved city has to offer. Photos of the event can be viewed at James Norton's gallery, and to access a list of designers featured at the show, check out Thread's site. My own photos will be uploaded onto facebook today, so check out the runway and photo lounge shots I got of my friends and I!

New York Glamour Hits La Jolla for a Reunion to Remember

2009-12-03T19:23:00.000-08:00

Typically, around the weekend prior to Thanksgiving, a slew of San Diego natives return to their hometown for some good food, quality time with the family, and a trip down memory lane at a slew of high school parties and local bars with old familiar faces. A local tradition at my alma mater, Torrey Pines High School, is an annual night after Thanksgiving bar party where you can see your old flings, past life besties, and kids from class you never thought you'd see again. The standard 'Where are you now?' and 'What are you up to these days?' pass with ease into a more comfortable, nostalgic vibe where old friends seek to make new memories, like time has never passed.

This year, three members of the Torrey Pines alumni came together to plan the annual event. These individuals wanted to not only plan a fun event that would top the parties of years past, but a fresh, elegant, SAFE event that would go down in the books as one of the best holiday parties of the year. It took a hip young transportation business owner and two aspiring event planners to make this shin dig happen, and it was the ultimate culmination of story telling, shot sharing, and scandal Torrey Pines students haven't witnessed since grad night.

Meet Yvonne Najor & Carli Roth. Two girls about town that know great parties and enjoy excellent company. After graduating from college and relocating to New York City, they noticed a recurring trend among friends... the need to connect with interesting new people. They began hosting small cocktail receptions in quirky, trendy spots that quickly resulted into new friendships, romances, and fun. From this, DBD was born.

DBD is a social club thats motto is about living life day by day. DBD is a constant reminder to take in and enjoy the people around you. Each month Yvonne & Carli host exclusive events, dinners, parties, and gatherings for an elite social group of young professionals in New York & California who are just looking to have a good time and live life day by day. "Its not about the life you live, but the way you live it", says Carli Roth, half of the entrepreneurial team. When planning an event of such magnitude with such an eclectic crowd, it takes an air of confidence, comfort and cooperation to pull something so hyped off. It was up to the alumni to show up, which was without doubt seeing as its the first and best holiday party at home, but the details of the event had to be worked out first.

The venue was Prospect Bar in downtown La Jolla, only a few exits South of the old neighborhood, but refreshing and new like it was another city. There was a VIP area with bottle service, and a full bar for others to fill up their cups. A pure glass wall allowed insiders to view who was coming in, and who was getting kicked out. Cali Camera Photography was hired to photograph the reunion, and took great photos capturing the excitement and surprise of many old friends reacquainting themselves with one another. The final detail to work out was the transportation. And that's where our third entrepreneur came in.

Brandon Blum, an up and coming businessman who likes to work hard and play harder, is owner of a limousine company that DBD used to shuttle guests from the Del Mar Plaza (neutral ground for most TP alumni) to Prospect Bar throughout the evening. "We wanted to help ensure people werent drinking and driving over the holiday" said Carli about teaming up with longtime friend Brandon. After a slew of alcohol related car accidents in San Diego in the past 2 months, and many other alcohol and drug related community deaths in recent years, safety was of the utmost importance on an evening where lots of alcohol and celebrating would be occurring.

The evening was filled with lots of memories, hugs, and toasts and thanks to the transportation and venue, was in a safe, refreshing, fantastic place. Overall, it went very smoothly, minus the usual drunk table dancers, sparklers, and shirtless men, and it was agreed upon by all to be an awesome reunion party. So if you missed any of the cat fights, kamikazes or kisses, be sure to check out the pics and follow DBD on facebook! And mark your calendar's for next year kids, because like fine wine, the alumni parties only get better with age and next year is bound to have just as much, if not more excitement, than this year!

Secret Soundtrack

2009-12-03T12:44:00.000-08:00

As posted earlier, I said I would publish a list of playlists from the Victoria's Secret Fashion Shows of years past... These cover live musical performances, songs and mash up's from the catwalk, along with tracks used as background music backstage during interviews with the VS Angels. I will start back when I began watching the annual runway show religiously, in my college days:

2005:

"Embraceable You" by Chris Botti

"Carol of the Belles" by U.S. Army Field Band & Soldier's Chorus mixed with "Christmas Eve (Sarajevo 12/24)" by Trans-Siberian Orchestra

"I Like The Way" by Bodyrockers mixed with "Dance of the Cygnets" by Andre Previn

"Shot You Down" by Audiobully's mixed with "Lujon" by Henry Mancini

"Love's Divine" by Seal

"Crazy" by Seal

"Drop It Like It's Hot" by Snoop Dogg & Pharell mixed with "Plaine, ma Plaine" by Paul Mauriat

"I Want Candy" by Aaron Carter mixed with "Pon De Replay" by Rhianna

"Drop the Pressure" by Mylo

"Drop It On Me" by Ricky Martin

"La La" by Teairra Mari

"Good Luck" by Basement Jaxx

"Are You Gonna Be My Girl" by Jet

2006:

"SexyBack" by Justin Timberlake

"Breathe Me" by Sia

"Beware of the Dog" by Jamelia

"When You Were Young" (Unknown Remix) by The Killers

"Galvanize" by The Chemical Brothers

"Bossy" (Unknown mix of Switch Remix) by Kelis

"My Love" by Justin Timberlake

"LoveStoned" by Justin Timberlake

"I've Got a Life (David Guetta Club)" by Eurythmics

"Just A Little More Love" by David Guetta

2007:

"Gonna Fly Now (Theme from Rocky)" by Bill Conti

"Let Me Think About It" by Ida Corr vs. Fedde le Grand

"Perfect (Exceeder) [Club Mix]" by Mason & Princess Superstar

"I Got It from My Mama" by will.i.am

"Touch Me" by Cass Fox

"Paralyzer" by Finger Eleven

"Doing It Right" by The Go! Team

"The Girls" by Calvin Harris

"Get Free" by The Vines

"Wedding Day" by Seal (with Heidi Klum)

"Who's That Girl (Extended Mix)" by Eurythmics

"Stop the Rock" by Apollo 440

"Stop" by Spice Girls

"Amazing (Thin White Duke Edit)" by Seal

2008:

"Yeah" by Usher

"Love Lockdown" by Kanye West

"Little Bit" by Lykke Li

"That's Not My Name" by the Ting Tings

"Human" by the Killers

"With You" by Chris Brown

"Babalu" by Jorge Moreno

"Let Me Entertain You" Robbie Williams

"What's Your Name" by Usher featuring will.i.am

"This Aint Sex" by Usher

"Young Folks" by Peter Bjorn and John

"Battle Without Honor or Humanity" by Tomoyasu Hotei

"Mercy" by Duffy

"Shut Up & Let Me Go" by the Ting Tings

2009:

Listed Below in next post

NOW GO RUN YOUR ASS OFF FATTY so you can start getting your freak body!!

Freak Bodies Hit the Runway for the Holidays

2009-12-03T11:32:00.000-08:00

Every year, around the holidays, there are many things one has to look forward to... football & family, eggnog & mistletoe, the outward pouring of love & joy. For me, although Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday and I love Christmas music all year round, I look most forward to the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. For those of you that are annual addicts to this runway extravaganza, you know what I am talking about. And for those of you who don't, it's time to get on the bandwagon. This runway show is most notable for the brand and faces behind the production, household names like Heidi, Gisele, Alessandra and Tyra. But since it's roots many decades ago, the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show has evolved into the biggest fashion spectacle in the world. It harmoniously blends together commercial fashion, couture models and mainstream music into one big glittery glamorous display of beauty one may ever sat their eyes on.

This year was no exception, and thankfully so since the past few years have been somewhat underwhelming due to the loss of many familiar faces (Gisele ended her contract with VS 2 years ago, and Tyra retired as a runway model after the 2006 show) and a loss of focus on the part of the artistic directors. Themes were lost and focal points were blurred in many of the "in between" segments, but this year I am happy to say that VSFS producers have simplified their vision and delivered one of the best runway shows of the decade.

The first segment of the show began with a blast off performance by the Black Eyed Peas of "Boom Boom Pow" their first hit single off their new album, The E.N.D. The stage was layered with green lazers forming the backdrop of a European skyline, while the glitter covered runway was strewn with futuristic dancers, similar to those from the BEP performance on the VMA's. The first face to grace the stage was the stunningly beautiful Alessandra Ambrosio, sporting a hot fuschia piece that would make any fashionistas heart melt. The theme of the first segment was futuristic neon, with bright yellow and pink ensembles featuring bubble helmets, geometric acrylic wings, and mirrored

fragments in floral like arrangements.

Next came the Travel inspired segment, featuring images of passing trains through a variety of sceneries and dancers tossing and dancing with props such as hat boxes, luggage, and totes. Marisa Miller was featured in the Million Dollar Bra, while the other models were covered in everything from furs to gems to exotic feathers and an array of rich expensive fabrics. It held an air of aristocracy and leisure that took the audience on a lush fantasy trip that most women only dream about.

Next was the more playful segment, representing the VS Pink brand, commonly shows in bright colors, loud patterns, and University style emblems across the tush. Usually, this is the part of the show people don't mind missing for its youthful mood, however this time, the directors used more couture design with the commercial brand. Tightly bound corsets, balloon wings, and bubble trains adorned the vibrant, playful looks inspired by dorm room debutants and varsity vixens around the country.

To break up the drool worthy faces and fashions, the Black Eyed Pas performed their newest track, radio hit "Meet me Halfway", where Fergie stole the show in her peekaboo front emerald green gown showing off her trained and groomed stems as if she were a VS Angel herself. Her vocals were also impeccable, and her solo in the end gave me the chills.

The last two segments were the most glamourous of all, in my opinion. The first of the two followed a fairy tale theme that was reminiscent somewhat of the Russian Royalty segment from years past where a classical ballet track was remixed with Snoop Dogg & Pharell's "Drop It Like It's Hot", featuring feathers, woodsy wings, and a fantastic feeling of escape from the normal world. This segment was on the lighter side, using a cooler palette of colors such as mint, pale pink, and lavender. Wings were delicate and ethereal, matching the nymph like faces of the models that bore them. Also notable, Heidi Klum's return to the runway only 2 weeks after giving birth to the newest of her brood, Lou Samuel.

The final segment was the standard finale in the VS fashion show, a glitzy wintery display of all the finer things VS has to offer... ruby and sapphire encrusted bras, bridal lingerie, black velour two pieces, snow queen corsets, and much much more. The center of the V shaped runway was filled with a booming choir that backdropped Leona Lewis' "Happy" and was all set against the backdrop of the laser outlined skyline from the start of the show, except a winter white instead of neon green. This segment was also the debut for Kylie, a VS Angel tryout who made it past over 300 candidates, through countless preliminary and final judgements, and finally made it to the runway where she spread her wings and strutted her stuff.

The playlist for this years fashion show is listed below. Later today, I will be posting a list of previous years songs... I promise these playslists are the shiz to work out to!

"Boom Boom Pow" by The Black Eyed Peas
"Sex On Fire" by Kings of Leon
"Use the Same Old Song" by Mighty Mike ("Use Somebody" by Kings of Leon mashed with "It's the Same Old Song" by the Four Tops)
"The Man Who Can't Be Moved" by The Script
"Happy" by Leona Lewis
"Untouched" by The Veronicas
"1901" by Phoenix
"The Battle" by Hans Zimmer
"My Delirium" by Ladyhawke
"Ooh La La" by Goldfrapp
"Message in a Bottle Rmx" by The Police
"Sex Appeal" by Barrie Gledden
"Heavy Cross" by Gossip
"Upset The Rhythm (Go Baby Go)" by Noisettes
"Bulletproof" by La Roux
"When Love Takes Over" by David Guetta

a new day, a new moon

2009-11-19T12:59:00.001-08:00

For all you Twi-hards out there, tonight at midnight marks the first public showing of the highly anticipated second film in the Twilight Saga, and the sequel to Twilight, New Moon. This film will probably be the highest grossing film of the year, thanks to Stephanie Meyer's top selling series and the gorgeous cast that the public has come to know and love.

The cast has been on a whirlwind press tour for the last week, jet setting from Germany, to LA for the film premiere, and around the country for a slew of morning and late night talk shows to discuss love lives, fan mania around the world, and other personal details to make the kids squirm in their seats. This week, Kristen Stewart was on The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien where she discussed her family, dealing with fame, and her adoration for Conan's hair. Meanwhile, Taylor Lautner was on The Jay Leno Show, where he threw the pigskin around with Jerry Rice and spoke of hot mom's sporting his Jacob panties to signings. For a laugh, tune into Ellen Degeneres tomorrow to watch her grill America's hottest vampire, Robert Pattinson. Additionally, The Today Show and Live with Regis&Kelly will host Rob Pattinson, Kristen Stewart and Taylor Lautner one day each this week.

For those of you who have not read the series, New Moon is the book in which Edward leaves Bella in an attempt to protect her from the wrath of the conservative and cruel Volturi clan. When Bella enters a deep depression after being heartbroken by her one true love, Jacob steps in as a companion, confidant, and crush to sweep her off her feet and enter her into a world she thought couldn't get any more complicated. When Jacob's secret identity, a newly turned werewolf, is revealed, Bella experiences a mental love triangle, trying to fight her urge to fall for Jacob while she still dreams of and sees images of Edward. Particularly hot in this film, beyond the handsome brooding vampires we have all come to obsess over, are the Quiluete werewolves (especially the newly bulked up Jacob who is so boyishly good looking it's no wonder mom's are pawing over him in front of their cubs!) who rarely wear shirts and express an alpha quality that reigns supreme over the passive, mysterious vampires Twilight fans experienced in the first flick.

Not to get ahead of myself, but I am most excited for the third installation of the Twilight series, Eclipse, when confrontations come to a head and the battle over Bella truly begins.

Blog Crush!

2009-11-13T13:28:00.000-08:00

I have a blog crush. I am totally obsessed with a new blog a recent acquaintance has introduced me to. It is a combination of fashion photography, editorial work, and documentary. The Sartorialist is a successful Renaissance Man of sorts, with a educational background in Apparel Merchandising and professional experience with fashion, photos, and writing, he has created a blog dedicated solely to fabulous fashion around the world.

"I thought I could shoot people on the street the way designers looked at people, and get and give inspiration to lots of people in the process. My only strategy when I began The Sartorialist was to try and shoot style in a way that I knew most designers hunted for inspiration. Rarely do they look at the whole outfit as a yes or no but they try and look for the abstract concepts of color, proportion, pattern mixing or mixed genres. "

The Sartorialist has an eye that most people strive for in fashion, but that I personally feel I share. Many times do I take notice of a particular piece, or feel to an ensemble, and wish I could share my perspective with those that share my love and inspiration for a designer, a garment, or an individuals style. Well, I have been beaten to the punch, but now have a crush on The Sartorialist and hope to one day masterfully blend my professional aspirations into one original, inspiring, creative project as he has.

Thursday is the New Friday

2009-11-10T15:53:00.000-08:00

Well, it seems that with the end of summer comes the end of some big tours, and local music afficcianados couldn't be happier. Fall is a chilly season where we can wear our scarves and boots and rock out to some shows that would otherwise be overshadowed by summer headliners like Britney Spears and Dave Matthews Band. This Thursday, the Belly Up Tavern will host the Danish rock duo the Raveonettes for a dreamy sultry indie rock performance partnered and hosted by FM 94.9. Before you head there, make a stop at the Brigantine for Thirsty Thursday and get $2 off some cocktails, mojito's & martini's. To get a feel for the Raveonettes, try sampling one of they're singles, "Dead Sound", an electronic charged 50's beat with soft pop vocals and hard hitting drums.

Thursday night, in my opinion, is the perfect evening for live music because it gets you revved up and ready for the weekend. And next Thursday should be no exception; Hawaiian Jazz Fusion Guitarist Jake Shimabukuro will be returning to laying down his island inspired rhythms at Anthology in Little Italy. Download "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" for an emotive, airy, reflective piece that needs no vocals to show off the ukelele virtuoso's intricate finger work.

A Month, In Review

2009-11-02T13:33:00.000-08:00

So after taking a short break from blogging, I am back in action! In the last month, I have been traveling, working, and shopping to build some content for my little bloggie. And after spending a few whirlwind weekends in Las Vegas and Boulder, I am focused back on local happenings, live music, good eats, etc.

A few weeks ago my dad took me to an awesome concert at the Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach where we watched Little Feat tear the house down. Bouncing between funky jazz tunes and down home blues, Little Feat was a concoction of everything I love about music. Spontaneity, variety, feel-good jams, guitar solos, classic ballads, and everything in between. The coolest part was that these guys were my Dad's age and they had been around for quite a while, until one of their original members died a while back. They recently started touring again with a few additional members, but they're mosaic sound comprised of funk, soul, jazz, blues, and rock has remained the same.

Recently, I found a fun new spot for cocktails, to watch the game, or to grab some app's if you're in the North County area. Beachside Bar & Grill on the Highway 101 in Encinitas boasts a large patio with fire pits, a nice selection of beers on draft, and a nice menu for the casual diner. The friendly staff and Encinitas crowds are perfect for those that enjoy going out but dressing down.

And for those who enjoy weekend getaways to new places, if you haven't already been you MUST go to Boulder, Colorado. This town is great for outdoor fanatics, young adults seeking a fun night life, foodies, those who love the simple life, and culture lovers. Boulder is a place full of fine dining complete with delicious wines and rare game, a variety of shopping experiences ranging from hippie head shops to high end boutiques, and every outdoor activity imaginable from skiing to hiking to kayaking to biking. The breathtaking beauty of the Flatiron Mountains is enough to draw any mountain lover, but the combination of good food, great shopping, and a bustling nightlife that can consist of billiard dives or hotel bars, every young adult is bound to fall in love with this liberal, cozy, brightly colored Colorado city. Every season is a treat, and Boulder County actually boasts more days of sunshine than San Diego (over 300 annually). The people are friendly and adventure seeking, and the air is so care free that it reminds you of what a simple life can be when you make the most of it. My top spots to visit while in Boulder: The Kitchen on Pearl St. has the best ambiance, ingredients, and tomato soup I have ever experienced. Cosmo's Pizza's slices are almost as famous as they're home made spicy ranch. Hapa Sushi boasts a famous Orgasm Roll that will have you begging for more. Dish Gourmet has the best sandwiches on Earth. Jax Fish House is the home kitchen to Top Chef season 4 winner Hosea. Installation is an artistic anomaly filled with dope kicks and cool accessories. Peppercorn on Pearl St. is the ultimate store for anything for the home, from cookbooks to candy jars. And the stunning St. Julien Hotel are the best digs in town, be sure to book a room that faces the mountains for a breathtaking view.

In sports news, the Yankees have been killing it in the World Series, and the Denver Broncos have finally been knocked of their winning streak. The Chargers are picking back off after their brutal loss to the Broncos, and continue on next week on their uphill climb to the AFC West Championship. The Lakers have been pretty decent, especially off the bench, courtesy of Shannon Brown, Adam Morrison, Jordan Farmar, and some other key players... but last night, Kobe reigned supreme with a dominating 41 points against the Atlanta Hawks. Actually, a few weeks ago, I was fortunate enough to score floor seats to the exhibition game in San Diego when the Lakers played the Nuggets and although the Lakers lost, the bench players got to hone their skills before the season started officially. And to be honest, I didn't care who won, I was just savoring the drops of sweat that kept falling on me from Shannon Brown ;)

Besides these new additions to my life in the past few weeks, much has been the same. Dirty Monday's at the Saloon in Encinitas, the quest for good sushi and mexican food in a new part of town, the sheer enjoyment of sporting a hoodie when the sun goes down. Life can be crazy sometimes, but at the end of the day when the sun goes down, life ain't that bad in beautiful San Diego!

F*** NFL, Let the Real Pre-Season Begin!

2009-10-07T17:14:00.001-07:00

For those of you that bleed purple and gold, who are frequents at the Staples Center, or for those who love Kobe, Lamar, and Derek, the time has come! Lakers Pre-Season starts tonight with a two game series against in state competition the Golden State Warriors. Although the Warriors are already 1-0 this pre-season, the Lakers are undoubtedly favored with their all-star roster and home town advantage (I say home town instead of home court because the game is in Anaheim tonight).

Phil Jackson has stated that he expects Lamar to come off the bench while Kobe Bryant, Derek Fischer, Pau Gasol, Andrew Bynum and Ron Artest to kick the game off. I think I speak for all Laker fans when I say how excited I am to see how Artest plays with our boys... and obviously to watch Kobe drop dimes on Golden State.

For those of you not attending the game, it will be broadcasted on AM Radio 710 for ESPN or you can watch it on KCAL HD.

Shake your ASR

2009-09-15T12:28:00.000-07:00

This time last year, I was throwing parties for Quicksilver and Redbull at my old job... this year I was in the throws of the threads. Saturday, 9/12, I attended the ASR Tradeshow at the Convention Center downtown as a buyer for Tobi Blatt clothing stores. The tradeshow was reminiscent of POOL in Las Vegas with the variety of booths... small booth after small booth, and then a huge elaborately decorated room, and repeat. In between all the hustle and bustle were a few landmarks... the Monster Lounge with free energy drinks and posh seating with flat screens and ambient tunes... the vintage motorcycle display, complete with a fully restored old Shelby mustang... the riot that was the Volcom booth, next to the homemade halfpipe, with a fully stocked bar and blaring Jimmy Buffet. All this was what I nearly expected, until I made my way to the new Class@ASR.

Class@ASR is like the honor roll of the tradeshow. "Embracing the CLASS@ASR concept are boutique labels that have potential to crossover into core action sports accounts, brands with surf, skate or snow roots designed for fashion forward consumers and higher end, limited edition lines from established action sports brands" says Surfshot.com. All the newest, freshest, most hyped brands in the biz all in one large mysterious conference hall. Each booth is shorter, smaller, and more uniform of those in the ASR hall, but the mood lighting, trance music, beer garden, sexy bar/lounge, and premiere selection made this the place to see, and be seen. Notable booths were WeSC, Lightning Bolt, Raen Optics, and a slew of Australian fashion labels with that signature funky style typical of the Gold Coast.

Although I didn't get to spend as much time at the show as I would have liked, I got to experience the downtown night life outside of work on Friday night, and boy was it fun!! Bondi threw a huge party, as did Hard Rock and a few other places. I went to new downtown hipster fave Voyeur for some electro beats and sweet drinks, and as usual had an amazing time. It was not as crazy as the scene at Anthology last year, but that could be a good thing...

Some trends spotted at the ASR & Class@ASR shows were: corduroy, flannel (yes, still), stylish headphones (sorry Skull Candy, your old news... try AiAiAi, they were the cat's meow this year), distressed denim, motorcycle pants, teeny bikini's, and COLOR!

Brights for all Seasons

2009-09-11T11:27:00.001-07:00

Although summer is winding down, there are still ways for you who love your neons & brights to embrace the fall without giving up on those playful pieces.

Check out Michelle Trachtenburg, in a plain black dress. When I see black dress on the red carpet, I think safe, hence my gravitation toward those who spice up their look with bright accent pieces or lots of interesting jewelry. In this case, the celebrity in question caught my attention with her bubblegum pink clutch. This is why we buy bright, bold pieces people! To be the focal point. You don't want it to get lost in a sea of colors and patterns. You want to downplay everything in comparison so your accessory of choice is the star of the show. Kind of like with red lips, or yellow shoes... two more of my favorite bold centerpieces.

Christian Louboutin, you are the only one for me...

2009-09-11T10:57:00.000-07:00

Inspired by Project Runway's Althea last night, with her menswear inspired winning look, and equally inspired by this season's hottest trend- motorcycle pants- I came up with a pretty cute new outfit to wear to work today. I just picked up a new Joie tuxedo-esque linen blouse at the Tobi Blatt Sale, and paired it with a basic black Velvet tank and my new LNA zipper legging's I scored in New York. And Voila! I managed to masterfully blended two opposing looks into one adorable ensemble. But something was missing... something to tie it all together and make it complete... The Right Shoe.

I always wanted a cute pair of Oxford's, since I spotted some cute rustic Dr. Marten's Oxfords in middle school. But this outfit, whether it was the colors or the materials, made me think extreme... the full on Oxford's, black AND white, lace up, chunky and bold. But not tacky, never tacky. With a recent return to the web shopping world (thanks to Intermix and Barney's), I perused the shoe departments on all the e-shop's I have ever used. With no allegiance to any particular designer, I stumbled across (conveniently) a very yummy- and tres expensive- pair of cutesy Oxford's with a tuxedo looks complete with tiny buttons and patent detailing. And there's no need to mention how delightful the signature peekaboo maraschino cherry red heel is. They reminded me of a hot fudge sundae and made me drool with desire!

This I will add to my always ongoing list of pieces worth saving for. It's time to start upping the ante into the piggy bank!

Later ShopBop!

2009-09-10T18:51:00.000-07:00

After giving up on online shopping, I have returned to the web for one reason: Intermix. It started as a visually stimulating curiosity, never making it past the main landing page for the first month of being a fan. I would admire the simplistic beauty of their opening ad design and used them as inspiration for my own work. Now that I have made it past the first page, I find myself walking through an imaginary fantasyland of glossy images of pretty things juxtaposed on beautiful women emitting an air befitting a specific personality. Girlish & innocent. Biker chick bad-ass. Strong and subtle indian princess. It is absolutely fabulous!

If you can't afford it, at least enjoy it up close and personal on your own until you can :) We all know buying the cheap shit isn't as good as saving for the good stuff anyways, right?

New York, in Review

2009-08-07T15:22:00.000-07:00

After a quick trip to NYC, I remember why I love the big apple so much!! Great food, great people, amazing fashion... what more is there to life? While visiting the city that never sleeps, we worked the Intermezzo and Moda Trade Shows held by ENK at the monumental Javits Center. Picking up holiday, resort, and spring collections from Velvet, Robins Jean, Chan Luu, and Vivienne Tam (along with many more) was more fun than work... booth hopping and shmoozing with designers was a great way to pass time. Trendspotting helped with forecasting future fashions (next season is all about python, motorcycle gear, and rompers!) and allowed us to seek some new labels to add to our arsenal of brands.

After hours, the standard was cocktails, dinner, then more cocktails. This trip was less about visiting my old favorites than it was about trying new things. Luckily, I had friends to guide me through the evenings (Thanks V and Hayley!) and led to discovering a whole new slew of hot spots. Some old revisited favorites included the St. Regis and Peninsula Hotels for after work drinks, however I visited the Peninsula's rooftop bar for the first time and it was a blast. Being surrounded by the skyline at sunset was quite a nice way to end the day after working for nine hours, and a great place to see old faces and meet new ones.

After apres-work drinks, came delicious Italian feasts! Forget the sceney Da Silvano's... instead we opted for local favorite Nello's off Madison, where the Calamari was the best I ever had, and the Asparagus special was too die for!! Our second night we were treated by our friends at The Palace Hotel to reservations at the uber-swank and nearly impossible to get into Il Molino downtown. Not only was the food and ambiance just what I look for in old school italian places, but the staff was so sweet I can't imagine going back to NY without visiting this fine eatery. Now if only I could get back in! Thanks to manager of 27 years Claudio, yours truly can rub elbows with celebs and socialites again...

Some other notable New York moments include:

-Bendel's making the change of becoming all accessories!! Sad but true

-Crumbs Cupcakes on Madison, they made it to California and STILL taste like heaven!

-The Blue Room at the W on Lexington for late night cocktails was the place to be

-brunch at The Peninsula is a great way to start off a busy day of work

-the Redeye to Newark is the only way to go

-my adorable new red patent leather clutch from Bendel's

-the always delicious street dogs, New York City's finest food!!

A Breath of Fresh Air

2009-07-28T11:34:00.001-07:00

For those who can appreciate the arts of fine photography and engaging writing, please visit my boy Mike's photography blog. His eye is impeccable and gravitates toward the beauty of nature and people all over the world and is simplistic in content but rich in emotion. All his work is original and spans over the development of his career as a photographer, through various travels to both coasts and in between. He can capture epic moments in the middle of a bustling city, or in the middle of nowhere.

Check him out!

www.gsmkphoto.blogspot.com

DO IT.

Que Syrah, Syrah

2009-07-19T14:27:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I finally made my much anticipated trip to Syrah wine bar in the Gaslamp District. I have heard great things about the place, and was excited to see it was the fantastic wonderland I have been dreaming of. The discreet entrance, unique decor, and extensive wine selection make this lounge a real gem. In a sea of Irish pubs and snooty clubs, this place offers a breath of fresh air to those looking for new horizons.

Andy Warhol meets Alice in Wonderland in this dreamy underground playground. Moss lined walls, wine barrel lampshades, and art deco accent pieces give a curious and enchanting ambiance. This is somewhere perfect for gathering friends, taking a date for an intimate evening, or merely to enjoy some innovative interior decor.

Whether you want to post up at the swank bar for a martini, or sit back in a plush vintage chair with a glass of pinot noir, this place is worth leaving your everyday worries behind to spend some time in Wonderland.

RYAN LOCHTE BELONGS IN THE TOOL ACADEMY

2009-07-13T22:48:00.000-07:00

Is this guy freakin serious??

Ryan Lochte may have won the 2009 ConocoPhillips Nationals Championships & World Championship Trials in Indiana this weekend, but he looks like a total douche.

You were so cute, why did you have to go and screw it up???

My Sweet Dream Future

2009-07-13T22:36:00.001-07:00

I have decided to set some long term goals for myself and have come to create a plan that balances the things I want to achieve and the things I love harmoniously. After I settle down (no details on this part of my life yet, for obvious reasons), and while having children (hopefully 4...3 boys and a little girl), I want to own a bakery. I want to specialize in retail cupcakes. I have been fantasizing about the possibility of this being a completely rewarding and fulfilling career, and have decided it is totally possible!

As long as I can save enough money for a small business to start, I think I can muster up the support to keep up. Besides... I LOVE MAKING CUPCAKES.

I have been making one batch a week, of classic box recipes, and need to start experimenting with my own recipes. I wouldn't mind starting by giving samples until the personal orders start coming in and I can really start working.

I find it hard not to love this idea. Being able to raise my kids and participate in their life while working and making cupcakes! I can keep my other amazing job and fulfill all my sweetest fantasies. MooMoo Dark Chocolate Cupcakes with White Frosting... Funfetti Rainbow... Chocolate Chip Yellow Cupcakes... Strawberry... Red Velvet... the possibilities make me hungry & happy, I can;t help myself. No matter what I do in my life, I swear I will profit off of my love for cupcakes by spreading love through giving and sugary goodness.

Twilight gets me Twitterpated

2009-07-08T20:46:00.000-07:00

After months of dedicating my life to the book series, falling in love with Edward again in Twilight, and anxiously awaiting the production of New Moon, I can't seem to help totally being obsessed with the male cast of the series.

I always though Robert Pattinson was cute, even as goody-two-shoes Cedric Diggory in another fantastic book series gone box office hit, Harry Potter.

But after seeing Cam Gigandet with no shirt on and this sexy Brad Pitt in Legends of the Fall hair, sporty strong big brother figure Kellan Lutz, and Taylor Lautner with his Crest worthy smile and big werewolf like chest, I couldn't resist doing a little googling (and oogling).

These guys cover every aspect of hotness... a tall, dark, and handsome guy with boyish good looks and a best friend with benefits complex; a mysterious romantic vampire who's eyes turn to gold when he can't control his lusty desire; and a golden haired savage that likes to push a girl around in a room full of mirrors. It doesn't get any better than this ladies!

New Moon comes out this November, and filming of the third book in the series, Eclipse, is starting immediately. Right after, Team Twilight will come up with the epic finale where we all remember the tantalizing honeymoon scene...

For more Robert Pattinson, his new flick Remember Me comes out in 2010 and should be great. It is also rumored that he just got casted in a scary horror film... don't hurt our Edward!

Bill O'Reilly said WHAT?!

2009-07-08T18:55:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't peruse Perez on the reg, you may not have seen or known that the Fox News personality made Michael Jackson a target for his 'Talking Points Commentary' bit. The discussion was appalling and tasteless, and was delivered, in my opinion, way to soon.

Rantrave.com states, "Bill O'Reilly seriously made fun of [Michael's] skin color, spending money he earned as an artist, and that he had white children".

A guest on the show reprimanded Jackson for turning his back on 'his people' and turning white, encouraging the black community to not support the pop star's iconic achievements. Bill O'Reilly at one point even said, "Yes the man was an all-star entertainer, but that's it". WTF?!? Michael Jackson was, and remains to be, the face of Pop music and set the standards that inspired musicians, performers, and entertainers like Justin Timberlake, Lionel Richie, Usher, and all the rest. He was misunderstood, and although the man had flaws, he is one of the most well known, admired, inspiring people in history. His life and death both affected many people around the world deeply, and both should be respected.

First of all, now that the man is dead, can we stop talking about all the alleged child abuse and plastic surgeries? We A. all know he is in denial about his physical changes being self imposed and B. no longer care what he did because he is dead. Not to mention, he just died a week ago for christ sake... can you let his family and fans just remember him the way they choose to and go on with your miserable life?

People like this make me resent freedom of speech.

Check it out for yourself and see the jerk in action:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQmV4YARHkk

BOO FOX NEWS!! Shame on you!

King of Pop's Untimely Death Leaves Lots of Loose Ends

2009-06-26T12:56:00.001-07:00

Yesterday afternoon, as most of you know, pop icon Michael Jackson suffered from cardiac arrest in his Los Angeles home. This was the third of a string of deaths that complete the theory that three celebrities die at a time... one elderly, one sick, and one sudden. Ed McMahon passed away at 86 on Wednesday, followed by Farrah Fawcett who lost her battle with cancer at 62 years old early Thursday morning, and now Michael Jackson suddenly collapses and dies of cardiac arrest at 50 years old.

Upon entering the singer's home yesterday afternoon, paramedics attempted to revive Jackson, who would not respond. MSNBC reports "The 50-year-old musical superstar died Thursday, just as he was preparing for what would be a series of 50 concerts...[He] had been spending hours and hours toiling with a team of dancers for a performance he and his fans hoped would restore his tarnished legacy to its proper place in pop."

Since his death was confirmed yesterday around 5 pm PST, radio stations & television channels have been covering the pop star's mysterious demise and memorializing him by playing his hits non-stop or every few minutes. When news started spreading, people felt it was their duty to inform those around them. A woman in a New York City subway stood up and recited a text message addressing the breaking news. A wave of pedestrians in Time Square murmured when the story flashed on the big screen. Jackson's death affected so many, it is already being compared to the scale of the Kennedy assassination.

Early this morning, on my way into work, the 91X Morning Show with Mat Diablo covered the headlining story by providing intimate details that began leaking last night about Jackson's abrupt death. Reports are saying that the singer's physician had administered a shot of demerol, a heavy pain medication, to Jackson only the day before his death. Some speculate Jackson's physician may have been negligent with his dosage and in combination with the excessive physical demands of his tour, and the stress on top of that, may have been sole contributors to his death. Although the autopsy is scheduled for Friday, COD won't be certain until toxicology reports come back soon after. But I must say, it is prettttty convenient that the doctor in question is M.I.A. right now.... Hmmm...

In any case, no matter the circumstances of his death, and regardless of Jackson's alleged child molestation incidents, the man was an incredible musician who I have always looked at as the most iconic figure in entertainment. Hell, I was in the Michael Jackson Club in high school, and not many will admit that! So here is to you, Michael Jackson, King of Pop, and Entertainment Icon. May your legacy live on in every crotch grab, sequin glove, red leather jacket, and bad nose job. You had a hell of a ride MJ, but just like in Neverland Ranch, the ride had to come to an end.

The Hills are Alive with the Sound of Music...

2009-06-25T13:52:00.000-07:00

Well, I just bought my ticket for the highly anticipated Electric Daisy Carnival, an annual house & techno festival for two days in the greater Los Angeles area. After my half ass Coachella experience, I decided to go balls to the walls with this one... with the exception of missing Friday becuase I have to work, I am broke, and I've seen half the heavy hitters before.

Friday, which I will not be attending, has a stellar line up on the main stage, featuring Fedde le Grand, Eddie Halliwell, Thievery Corporation Live (the shizz at Coachella, BTW), old school faves ATB, and closes out with Paul Oakenfold. Other notable guests Friday include STS9, Shiny Toy Guns and Boys Noize.

The big night I am preparing for, Saturday, has an all-star lineup that makes me salivate with excitment. Kaskade, Groove Armada, Benny Benassi, David Guetta, and Paul Van Dyke will be mind blowing! Other side show freaks worth seeing are DJ AM (Also the shizz at Coachella!), Crystal Method, Infected Mushroom, Simian Mobile Disco and Mark Farina.

Now if that doesn't look like a euphoric wonderland of music, lights, and love, then I don't even want to know you. Bring on the bass!!

Gloomy Day for Gloomy News

2009-06-25T10:52:00.000-07:00

R.I.P. Farrah Fawcett
Early this morning on this June Gloom Thursday, famous Charlie's Angel actress and model Farrah Fawcett lost her battle with cancer. She received her last rites from a priest at St. Joseph's Health Center in LA yesterday, with family and close friends by her side. After fighting cancer bravely for many years, she passed away at 62 years old. She will always be remembered as one of America's Golden Girls and her radiance will forever be immortal in her red swimsuit poster that has lined boys locker rooms all over the country.

Lakers Warn the Magic This Series Will Be A Long Hard One

2009-06-04T21:06:00.000-07:00

So after 2 long series' to get to the NBA finals, the LA Lakers showed no sign of fatigue or lethargy while stomping out the Orlando Magic 100 to 75 this evening.

After a slow start, not only did Kobe score 18 points just in the first half, but came back after halftime to swoop another 18 just in the third quarter. Early foul trouble gave Dwight Howard some bench time, but his team didn't need him to continue their efforts. Known for their resiliency, Orlando failed to step up their game and let the Lakers gain a 20 point lead before the end of the third. With a strong defense and an offense shooting at 46%, it was a complete Magic slaughtering.

With Kobe playing like the Black Mamba he is, and Odom, Bynum, and Gasol by his sides, the Lakers played smart, confident, and aggressive. The sweetest part of this playoff, most would argue, is the come back from last post-season when the Lakers were robbed by the Celtics. But tonight, the boys played like they had nothing to prove; they loved every minute of the game and looked like they thoroughly enjoyed kicking the Magic's asses tonight. Players stepped out of their comfort zones, took risks, and worked hard and cohesively toward tonight's victory. Not one player didn't perform tonight, most notably (in my opinion tonight) was Luke Walton's triumphant return to the court this round... and Gasol's outside fades weren't that bad either.

Sorry for the Delay

2009-05-31T11:44:00.000-07:00

i have been bad, I know... not posting in almost a month!! UNHEARD OF.

I have been trying to get some inspiring material for my silly little blog and have been so engorged by my work schedule that I have barely had time to think about anything but coffee and clothes. Which leads me to my new business venture (drum roll please.....) www.tobiblatt.com!! Now all the fab San Diego styles we all know and love are available to you, wherever you are! Hope you all like it, it should be growing more and more each day with lots of love and a little water & sunshine :)

Calling All Happy Hour Warriors!

2009-05-06T14:15:00.001-07:00

In this economy, with the shortened hours and thinning wallets, I am always in search of great deals, from lunch to happy hour to late nights snacks, and everything in between. Today, I had lunch at a quaint place with spectacular views, a delightful menu, and in a fabulous neighborhood.

The Clarion Porto Vista Hotel in San Diego's Little Italy just opened last summer, and in addition to featuring some of the most luxurious rooms on the North end of the Harbor, their Glass Door restaurant has good eats and great happy hours! I thouroughly enjoyed the Crab Cakes, and hear their wine selection is nothing but divine. Daily, The Glass Door serves up $4 drinks and $6 tapas from 3-7pm, and on Wednesday's, half off wine from lunch till close. With the wine steals, and a stunning San Diego sunset, one couldn't ask for a more ideal Happy Hour spot!

Located at 1835 Columbia St., you have panoramic views of the harbor and downtown skyscrapers, have free parking in the hotel underground lot, and are only a rock's throw away from some genuine Italian coffee & gelato. Now that's what I call perfetto!

COACHELLA 2009

2009-04-20T11:27:00.000-07:00

So I survived, and I live to tell the tale of another music festival experience. What an amazing trip! First of all, I love the desert since there are endless horizons and room for so much weirdness. Lauren and I started the weekend off by ditching the office get up's and driving to Borrego to stay at our friend's Grandma's house for the night. Back roads, no traffic, 4 pump up CD's... so great. Once we got in, we kicked off the weekend by jumping in the pool and getting settled in. We raced on the golf course, had guitar jam sessions, cooked and feasted on a delicious dinner, and danced under the stars all night. **Big shout out to Grandma: thanks for the sweet digs!** In the morning, we woke up to Strawberry Macadamia Waffles and Sausage to nourish our bodies before our intense day of festival festivities. We hit the road around 11 am to head to Indio to meet with friends before heading to the actual festival.

Once we pulled into La Quinta, we couldn't contain our excitement any more. We met up with the 91X staff at their pad for some daytime fun. Reunion's with old friends, beer on tap, BBQ, Rock Band, air conditioning, and an awesome crew made for a day full of sunshine and laughs. Because 91X was broadcasting live from their house, we got to watch interviews and meet some of the Coachella artists, indlucing Ida Maria, Michael Franti, & Spearhead. After a few hours, we packed our lunches, filled the coolers, and hopped in the car. It took us an hour to get to the festival, although it was only a couple miles away, but once we got there the party really started.

On our way in, we heard TV on the Radio, which sounded pretty chill. We opted to split our time between the main stage and the Sahara tent, where most of the big electronic acts were playing. We started our set with TRV$/DJAM, who played an incredible set of house/rock/rap mash up's, and featured special guest WARREN G! Afterwards, we explored the visual stimuli around the grounds, and enjoyed the Thievery Corporation show from the Heineken Beer Garden. From there, we perused around a bit more until we watched the SPECTACULAR M.I.A. show on the main stage. Concert goers rushed the stage at the artists request, and the visuals and dancers and M.I.A.'s outfits were all colorful and cool. After M.I.A. we decided to lay in the grass and meet some friends until we returned to the main stage area for The Killers. Although it was somewhat boring, the lead vocals were flawless. Halfway through we switched gears and headed back to the Sahara tent for my big highlight, MSTRKRFT. This show was mindblowing, filled with tight music and interesting characters. Large groups of hippies participating in group meditation, ravers clad in light up pacifiers and glow in the dark clothing, and phenomenal laser sets made for the perfect setting for this unbelievable finish to a great day. Post show, some late night munchies, golf ball hitting, and streaking ensued around the 91X house, concluding in a sea of about 20 bodies sleeping on the floor in one house.

Notable moments of the weekend: laying on the star lit golf course in a drum circle, the light box at the Sahara tent, the purple light display between tents at the festival- which we crawled inside of and got kicked out of, M.I.A. trash talking Amy Winehouse- rightfully so, but thanks for the main stage slot Amy!, the delicious PB&J's I survived off all weekend, and the 20 Jack in the Boxes in the desert that provided road nourishment. Next year: SAME TIME, SAME PLACE.

Calling All Night Owls

2009-04-17T00:56:00.001-07:00

Any known non-medicated cures for insomnia out there?

Coachella is less than a day away and I can't sleep. In 14 hours, our caravan will be departing on an epic adventure, into the wasteland of California desert that will engulf us in fiery vibrations for the duration of the weekend. What's on the menu for us? Paolo Nutini, James Morrison, Band of Horses, TV on the Radio, the Killers, Atmosphere, Bloody Beetroots, M.I.A., TRV$DJAM, The Chemical Brothers, Crookers, MSTRKRFT, & much much more.

DL the following for a taste of what I will be jamming to on Saturday:

"Radio Fireworks (Surkin 909 Edit)" Surkin

"Galvanize" Chemical Brothers

"Clubhoppn" Para One

"Magic Bus" Crookers

"D.A.N.C.E. (MSTRKRFT Remix)" Justice

"Il Brutto" Crookers

"warp 7.7" Bloody Beetroots & Steve Aoki

"Sunshine" Atmosphere

"Galang" M.I.A.

"In the Morning" Junior Boys

"Should Have Known" Atmosphere

"Paper Planes" M.I.A.

"Loving You" Paolo Nutini

"Winter White Hymnal" Fleet Foxes

"You Give Me Something" James Morrison

"Quattro (World drifts in)" Calexico

"Learned to Surf" Superchunk

"Pretty Bird" Jenny Lewis

"One Last Chance" James Morrison

"Last Request" Paolo Nutini

"Our Swords" Band of Horses

"Green Onions" Booker T. & the MG's

"Spaceman" The Killers

"Staring at the Sun" TV on the Radio

ENJOY :)

What did you Se?

2009-04-08T15:49:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I was fortunate enough to join some friends for a night and day at the fabulous new Se Hotel (formerly the Setai) on Fifth Ave. and Broadway in San Diego's Gaslamp District. This beautiful hotel makes bold statements in everyway, whether its the innovative design of the hotel's face (including a 9,000 lb. bronze lobby door); the floor-to-ceiling blue suede headboards; the on-site recording studio; or the city's newest addition to fine dining, Suite & Tender. The pool deck in itself is reason to stop by... fully equipt with 8 cabanas, swank sofa sets, and modern lounge chairs, the prime tanning hours are between one and four o'clock, but after dark ain't so bad either. With bottle service, lounge music, and a bevvy of A-list guests, the nightlife at the Se is sure to make a splash this summer. If all that isn't enough, the Se is home to the West Coast's largest penthouse suite- which will feature floor-to-ceiling wine racks, a custom built pool table, and 180 degree views of downtown. Top that.

They're backkkkk

2009-04-06T22:46:00.000-07:00

I am currently 46 minutes into the hour long rager that is the Hills premiere, and I am completely shocked. I had given up on this godforsaken show and its supremely shitty actors, but tonight, some real shit went down and I'm totally hooked back on the Hills. First of all, can I just start with Heidi's hair? It is even bigger, blonder, and makes her resemble a lion. Second of all, she has the audacity to show up at LC's surprise party? What a middle school move... and the two of them crying at the end, so hilarious! Shortly following was Spencer's super D list night at The Dime, an LA hotspot judging by the brawl that went down over a text message... he beat up his sister's ex for tattling on his sleazy ass while hitting on a bartender...real mature Spencer. That is what most married men do, well done.

Things couldn't get any worse, until the second half hour started. Not only is Stephanie Pratt my least favorite reality TV star of all time, but she is the dumb bitch that invited Heidi to the party! Well, props to LC for putting her nosy little tush back in line with the rest of her followers. To make things even more vintage, Spencer and Brody decide to have a bromantic lunch date while Heidi recluses back to Colorado only to be cornered by her mom and her high school ex. Talk about awkwarddddd! The show ends with Spencer's sleazy ass back at the bar hitting on the same bartender with the squeaky annoying voice. REAL COOL. All in all, I would say the show was semi realistic, with a lot of memorable moments. Two thumbs up for LC (and earlier tonight, a wild Blair Waldorf) for their blood red pouts. Now that's hot!

i heart Perez

2009-04-03T12:23:00.001-07:00

After a long haiedus, I have returned my loyalty to Perez. Maybe its because I overdosed on the famed blog in college with my endless hours of free time, but I am back on the bandwagon and loving it. In recent Perez reports, there's news on New York's horrific hostage situation, updates on MK&A's new line Elizabeth & James, and photos of scantily clad drunken D listers. Quote of the week: "The best cure for a hangover is something one straight man can't do for another straight man." - Ben Affleck tells the new issue of Esquire

After watching an anxious, potentially effed up, Ben Affleck on Leno last night, I gotta say I am over Ben and remain loyal to the better half to his whole, Matt Damon.

For some real laughs at the office, check out this exclusive 90210 after party moment: http://perezhilton.com/2009-03-29-shes-our-kind-of-gal

Anthology on the 91x Morning Show tomorrow!

2009-03-25T14:37:00.001-07:00

Listen in San Diego natives!! Tomorrow morning between 5:30-10:00 am, on the 91x Morning Show with Mat Diablo & Carlos Montoya (I didn't forget you Sammi & Preston!) will be giving away a couple pairs of tickets for Anthology's Indie Showcase tomorrow night @ 7:30pm featuring Trevor Davis, Carney, and electro-rock project Dr. Seahorse. This show is going to be tight, so tune in and dial in to win free tickets!!

And if you're not already a fan of the 91x Morning Show, add it to your radio settings because it is EFFING awesome! Full of pop trash, drunk dials, and witty banter; Mat, Carlos, Sammi, and Preston are a unique bunch of clashing personalities that masterfully tackle topic after topic, ranging from MMA to Snuggies. These funny guys (and gals) can be heard weekday mornings on the way to work, and beat the day old chart toppers on 933 & Blazin989.

Holler back, Marijuana.

In Grammy News...

2009-02-10T10:32:00.000-08:00

Well, this wekeend was full of red carpets, award ceremonies, and fabulous parties... not to mention a few surprises! This years Grammy weekend started with the MusiCares Annual Silent Auction & Person of the Year Award Ceremony on Friday, February 6th. This years Person of the Year was Niel Diamond. The Silent Auction raised over $500,000.00, most notably including Neil Diamond's old T-Bird, which was purchased by the Chairman of the Grammy Academy for $75,000.00. The event was hosted by Jimmy Kimmel, and planned by none other than my fabulous aunt, Dana Tomarken, and was held at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

For the Award Ceremony, a plethora of headlining acts graced the stage by covering a song written or performed by Diamond, and gave their two cents on why Diamond was so worthy of this prestigious honor. Artists included Adele, Chris Cornell, Kid Rock, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, The Foo Fighters, Terrance Blanchard, and many more. The best performance of the night was, by far, Jennifer Hudson, who belted out a sultry rendition of "Holly Holy" and recieved a standing ovation that only matched Neil's! My other favorite performance was Coldplay's charming keytar version of "I'm a Believer". Backstage, I was fortunate enough to meet Chris Martin (pictured above), who might I add, is a total sweetheart. In addition to being humble and charming, he donated a significant amount of dough to the MusiCares Foundation by shelling out $50,000.00 for a Britney Spears concert package. I hope little Apple likes Brit Brit or else someone is getting a bomb birthday present!

Another charming group I was lucky enough to meet were the Jonas Brothers. The cute little trio, all dapper in their three piece suits, were polite, kind, and honorable while they performed "Forever in Blue Jeans", a song they probably had never heard prior to the sound check. In any case, I was impressed with the tweeny boppers, for not only their personalities, but their musical talent and on-stage charisma. The ceremony wound down with a three song set by the recipient himself, coming to a close on the karaoke favorite "Sweet Caroline". Other celebrities spotted at the event were Camilla Belle, DJ AM, Bob Forest of Celebrity Rehab, David Spade, Sarah Silverman, and Rick Ruben.

Another exciting night this weekend was Clive Davis' pre-Grammy bash at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Saturday night. Some of the artists in attendence were Kanye West, who gave an impromptu speech, Whitney Houston, who made a potential huge comeback, and Usher. As most of you heard, the drama didn't begin until after the party, when Chris Brown & Rhianna got in a physical altercation in Hancock Park, leaving a publicity nightmare and a broken Rhianna on the street. Poor Rhianna, who would have though Chris Brown could be capable of such menace!

Following Saturday nights events were the much anticipated Grammy Awards. Sunday evening's ceremony was filled with many memorable moments, both good and bad. Highlights included Blink 182's reunion, a very pregnant MIA killin it on-stage with Weezy, Jay Z, Kanye and T.I., the five Grammy's Allison Krauss and Robert Plant pulled off, and Jennifer Hudson's emotional performance. Low points included Katy Perry's morbid bi-curious performance, MIA's weird ladybug dress, and Kings of Leon getting robbed for Best Rock Album. And when Rhianna and Chris Brown didn't show up due to the incident from the night before, Justin Timberlake & Al Green turned it out with their collaboration on "Let's Stay Together". All in all, with all the drama, glamour, and hype, the show turned out to be a smashing success. My big shoutout goes to Dave Grohl, who backed the amazing Paul McCartney by returning to the drums after spending some time away from them since Nirvana's dispersion. Dave, you're musical talent never ceases to amaze me-- ROCK ON!

Festival Outlook 2009

2009-02-03T11:24:00.000-08:00

Ever since Woodstock began in 1969, music festivals have been sprouting up in some of the most musically enriched cities in America. Austin, Tx. Miami, Fl. Los Angeles, CA. These mass migrations of hippies, hipsters, rich kids, and die hard groupies have turned out to be not only a collection of unforgettable performances, but serve as a catalyst for a widespread conciousness that is characteristic of our generation. This years festival lineups are jam packed with everything from Indie rock to Hip Hop, and everything in between. Check em out!

Indie Fest- San Diego, CA
March 1, 2009
MC Flow, Guava Belly, Bitter Sober, Audible Mainframe, Social Green, Juliette & the New Romantiques, The Burning of Rome, Saucy Monkey, Kyler England, Joe Rathburne, & more.

SXSW- Austin, TX
March 18-22, 2009
Bedouin Soundclash, Jay Nash, Andrew Bird, Head Automatica, Cursive, Iglu & Hartley, Lady Dottie & the Diamonds, Black Lips, CKY, John Cruz, Crystal Method, deadmau5, 8ball & MJG, Zion I, Grouch & Eligh, Justin Nozuka, 3oh!3 (hell ya Boulder!), & many many many more!

Winter Music Conference/Ultra- Miami, FL
March 24-28
The Prodigy, Paul Van Dyk, Armin Van Buuren, Tiesto, the Ting Tings, Bloc Party, Santogold, Simian Mobile Disco, David Guetta, ATB, Benny Benassi, Fedde Le Grand, Tiga, Boys Noize, Kaskade, Moby, & more.

Coachella- Indio, CA
April 17-19, 2009
Paul McCartney, The Killers, The Cure, Franz Ferdinand, Amy Winehouse, Morissey, Thievery Corporation, My Bloody Valentine, Conor Oberst, The Black Keys, Girltalk, MSTRKRFT, Fleet Foxes, TV on the Radio, Band of Horses, Lupe Fiasco, TRAV$/DJ AM & many more.

New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival- New Orleans, LA
April 24-26, April 30- May 3, 2009
Wynton Marsalis, DMB, James Taylor, Earth Wind & Fire, Wilco, Spoon, Etta James, Better Than Ezra, Tab Benoit, Aretha Franklin, Sugarland, Ben Harper, Kings of Leon, Bonnie Rait, Emmylou Harris, Common, Los Lobos, Jakob Dylan, & more.

Bonnaroo- Manchester, TN
June 11-14, 2009
Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band, Phish, Beastie Boys, Nine Inch Nails, Elvis Costello, Snoop Dogg, Al Green, Erykah Badu, Paul Oakenfold, Ben Harper, The Mars Volta, Santogold, Citizen Cope, Belah Fleck & Toumani Diabate, MGMT, Portugal.the.man, & many more.

There are so many more music fests that have lineups yet to be announced (Lollapalooza, Electric Daisy Carnival) and touring compilation shows (Vans Warped Tour) to keep your eye out for. This is going to be a great year in music, so fill up your tanks, pack your car full of food, friends, and sleeping bags, and embark on a journey to where your heart and ears desire!

Purple Haze

2009-01-30T14:46:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday night, people from all over San Diego gathered at Cox Arena to hear the Cash Money Millionaire drop bombs. Contrary to popular gossip, Weezy went on stage at 9 pm, as scheduled, on time. Unfortunately, we missed the first half of his set, but still caught hits from the Carter III like "Mrs. Officer", "Shoot Me Down", "Lollipop", "Misunderstood", and the hot new jam with Keri Hilson "Turn Me On". The sexy songbird made an appearance at the concert, along with fellow hip hop act Drake. Besides his codine and blunt induced state, Weezy didn't fail to provide some memorable moments for San Diegans. The show was energetic, filled with flame throwers, exploding sets, strippers on poles, a four platform band set up, and a mobile DJ booth floating overhead. Although it was entertaining, Weezy's performance was nothing above sub-par. When he tried to go all emo on us and croon a guitar laden ballad, he slurred his lyrics, the sound was bad, and he merely sat on a chair. It seems as though he fell short of his rock star vision. To bring the show to a close, he gave SD the props it deserved (even though I am still pissed about the Chargers diss he made on the radio), played "A Milli", and waved the crowd goodbye to Whitney Houston's "I Will Always Love You"... Bottom Line: Weezy may be the shit, but he sure did stink at Cox this week. Easy on the syzzurp Weez, you're losing it!

Trend Watch: Pink is the new Red

2009-01-29T14:39:00.001-08:00

You know Spring is near when girls start showing more skin and opt for a paler pout. This spring, baby pink is the hot new lipstick color. From the runway to the red carpet, or the office to the saloon, baby pink is fresh, pretty, and compliments every shade of skin. For a change from the auburn reds and deep plums of fall, try a peachy gloss or a light pink sheer lipstick to brighten your look! Like MAC's Pink Nouveau lipstick, or my personal favorite, Chanel's Sesame lip gloss.

ASR has arrived

2009-01-22T17:14:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! I know it's a little late, but it has been over a month since my last post so I thought it would only be appropriate for 2009's first blog. As we embark on a new year, we must embark on new adventures... and what a better way to kick of this year's party scene than with an ASR weekend?! This bi-annual tradeshow celebrates all that is fresh in the fashion world. ASR returns to San Diego for its Winter Expo January 23-25, and will be featuring the hottest surf, skate, and snowboard lines known to all the avid extreme sports freaks out there. In addition to the Trade Show, which is open to vendors Thur-Sat this weekend, there are many other cool happenings to celebrate the coolest convention around:

-"Fashion Revolution" Runway Show Fri @ 2pm

-DVS Hands Free Big Air Challenge Fri 1/23 @ 3pm

-Grind For Life's Jump Ramp Jam Fri 1/23 @ 4pm

-Fieldtrip After Party with Colour Vision at Airport Lounge Fri @ 9pm

-Jetpilot Party at The Keating Sat @ 7pm

-& much much more!

For more information, visit the Convention Center website or check out http://www.discoversd.com/ for updates on the local happs for this years Winter ASR Tradeshow.

A Night to Remember: Sophie Radio's Green Christmas

2008-12-11T11:41:00.000-08:00

Last Night, I had the pleasure of helping put together one of the most memorable nights at Anthology this year. Sophie 103.7 kicked off their Green Christmas Party with a VIP dinner & performance by Ryan Star, a New York native rocker. After the VIP performance in the fireside lounge, the night really began to heat up. Lined up for the evening were Sophie favorite's SafetySuit, Justin Nozuka, Buckcherry, O.A.R., and Alanis Morissette. In addition to the stellar line-up, there were Sophie holiday inspired drinks that featured Blue Ice Vodka, Diplomatico Anejo Rum, and Finian's Irish Whiskey. The holiday spirit was also present in the form of giving: The San Diego Oceans Foundation held a raffle with lots of giveaway goodies and a silent auction that included items like signed guitars by John Mayer & Matt Nathanson, tickets to upcoming concerts, and trips to Mexico. With donations from SeaWorld and Anthology, the San Diego Oceans Foundation ended up making a whopping $7000.00! And if that's not holiday giving at its finest, than I don't know what is.

Not only did I have the pleasure of helping put on this event, but I also was fortunate enough to hang with some of the coolest musicians I have met in my time here at Anthology. After watching Justin Nozuka's sound check and introducing myself to him, I realized what a kind spirit and down to earth guy he is. Throughout the evening, he mingled with fans and attendees, maintaining a completely laid-back attitude and always wearing a smile on his face. On top of his great personality, he performed an incredible set where he played an array of songs ranging from his radio smash "After Tonight", to the blues standard "Ain't No Sunshine", and my personal favorite "Be Back Soon". By the end of his set, he had all the ladies in the house swooning and wanting more! For the remainder of the show, he payed homage to those he shared the stage with, and intently watched the performances of Buckcherry, O.A.R., and Alanis Morissette.

Another musician I was lucky enough to meet was the up and coming hit, Ryan Star. Although his performance was excellent, his persona was also laid-back and friendly. It is so nice to see how comfortable artists feel and how intimately they perform at a venue like Anthology. It not only allows for me to personally enjoy their company, but the fans to do so as well. It wasn't even surprising seeing Justin and Ryan mingling among spectators chatting about mundane topics such as Barmitzvah memories and mexican food. To top off my celeb spottings of the night, I got to spend a few moments in the Green Room with Marc & Richard of O.A.R. All in all, the night was amazing full of elbow-rubbing with some of my favorite musicians, holiday cheer, and a smiling crowd. To top it all off, Alanis Morissette, who was the soundtrack to my adolescence, told great stories on stage, played some classic gems, and some newer material. She looked great, sounded great, and really brought the evening full circle. Thank you to Sophie Radio, SD Oceans Foundation, SeaWorld, all our liquor sponsors, all the musicians (especially you, Justin!), and our amazing staff for creating such a beautiful, memorable production. Cheers to one more year, Sophie!