I spent my late twenties in California, my wedding reception was in Laguna and my first child was born in Orange County. For us it is a sort of homecoming.
California style is….
Relaxed, carefree, undone.
Packing essentials
Tory tunic, Andrea Gomez espadrilles, Frends Headphones, Phoenix Roze diamond hoops and a Kiini bikini.
And must-have beauty items…
Don’t get me started… Sunblock is a MUST. I really like the Reverse line from Rodan + Fields. I love Nuxe body oil. I love the way it smells and it makes my skin baby soft. I am totally obsessed with Sunday Riley’s Good Genes and Artemis Oil. I like the Kjaer Weis cream blushes for a little lift and my Harry Josh hair dryer. Last year I left mine here and my host enjoyed it so much it I told her to keep it as a sort of hostess gift.
The difference between a West Coast girl and an East Coast girl….
Well, when I am in California I feel like flat-chested brunette and when I am in New York I am a big-busted blonde. Same girl, same style, different lens.
If I had a inspiration board for this trip….
I have a Pinterest board called Marooned that is dedicated to my beach vibe. I also love my friend Stephanie Steinman’s Le Postcard and her Instagram could be my inspiration board!
Favorite movie about California…
I don’t have a favorite California movie, but I love all of the house sets in California. The Father of The Bride house, the house in The Holiday, the It’s Complicated house. As I am writing this list maybe I just want Nancy Meyers to write or direct me a house in California.
Breakfast at the Beachcomber — the beignets are out of this world and you feel transported in time. Playing on the beach with my family in Crystal Cove followed by a hike on the trails. A stop at Juxtaposition Home for some inspiration and home goods. Lunch at Babette’s — the one in East Hampton is one of our favorites and now there is one in our other favorite place. Afternoon at A’Maree’s — it is a treasure trove and you can spend the entire day there. A coffee or tea at Alta for a little fuel. Followed by a quick pop into 503 Found across the street. Biking on the boardwalk with my family. Watching my husband surf at the 56th Street break on the Newport Peninsula. Dinner at Fig & Olive in the cozy chairs.
Favorite local beach…
1000 Steps in Laguna or Table Rock.
My sunset cocktail spot of choice…
I love hanging out at A’Maree’s and having their house cocktail. It is one of my favorite moments of my vacation.
Date night destination…
I love to have dinner at Buddha’s Favorite in Newport Beach with my husband.
For a local sweet treat with kids…
I love to take the kids to Balboa Island for ice cream.
Book on my nightstand…
Will You Won’t You Want Me by Nora Zelevansky.
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