Stories

Le Style Francais

The French have a legendary sense of style.  French Country design is characterized by charm, warmth, and sophistication with roots in the sunny hillsides of rural France.  The versatility of being relaxed, yet refined, draws its inspiration from the country homes and rustic farmhouses in the south of France.

 With the comfort and tradition French Country design offers, it gives life and a reference to the past in a room.  French Country interiors can be rustic and humble, or sophisticated and glamorous.  It’s all about creating a space that is inviting, elegant, yet relaxed, and full of comfort and character.

 French Country furniture has the ambiance of curved panels, handcrafted details, rush seating, and other natural materials.  The emphasis for furniture leans towards a rustic feel.  The more lived in, the better.  Furniture is often distressed in finish, but ornate with detailed carvings.  Dark woods are often used, as are pieces that have been stripped and softly washed with paint.  Well worn and loved antiques, and eclectic furnishings from different eras mix well, as they have that sense of being passed down through generations.  They bring personality to a space that is French Country at its best.  

 Large scale furniture and accessories bring an authentic note into a French Country interior.  Even in a smaller space, scale up pieces to suggest roominess and individuality to be appreciated more.

Textures are important in creating French Country rooms.  Rooms are more interesting when you layer an intriguing mix of textures.  Chipped paint, rusted iron, crackle, or weathered patina finishes with a timeworn look, create that undeniable sensuous French feel.  Ironwork is very popular as well.  Iron accent pieces such as wall grilles, sconces, candleholders, and wire baskets are often used when designing a room.  Adding chicken wire to cabinetry, especially when you show off your finest china and glassware, is another very French detail.

The colors of Provence are the centerpiece of French Country design.  When you think of the Provencal countryside, you think of rich vivid hues such as sunny golden yellows, azure blues, soft lavender, deep reds, bright greens, and creamy whites.  Part of the fun of French Country decorating is that you can use these colors at the same time by combining them so they compliment each other without competing.  Add fresh color by pairing an exuberant yellow paisley with a blue check fabric, or mix a rustic red Provencal floral with a green plaid, and c’est si bon!  In France, a room isn’t finished unless it has many different patterns and colors, so throw away the idea that everything has to match.

One of my favorite lines of French furnishings, fabrics, and accessories is Pierre Deux.  I spoke with their marketing director in New York, Heather Ryan, about some of their recent introductions.  She said, “In French Country decorating, color, often vibrant, sunny colors reflecting the natural elements of the countryside dominate.  We continue to feature lots of our signature yellows and blues.  Last but not least, Pierre Deux has gone to the dogs.  We know the French love their pets, and now we have introduced our first collection of pet accessories.”

The French certainly do have a way with their approach to design.  Every detail in designing their interiors is well thought out.  By combining natural materials, a mix of unique textures, vivid Provencal colors, traditional French Country fabrics, and a little je ne sais quoi, French Country style can turn your home into a cheerful refuge!

Swedish design uses pale colors to lighten rooms...

 In a country that is dark for half of the year, the Swedes have come to cleverly use color to lift their spirits and brighten dark, gloomy spaces.

White and the palest, powdery soft shades of blue are often seen in Swedish design, and bring a lightness to the interiors of this northern European style.

Subject to many influences, Swedish design closely identifies with the Gustavian style, named after King Gustav III. Inspired by French court pieces, Swedish style simplifies the ornateness and busy details of the French influence, as this region has plainer taste.

The Swedes love their simplicity. Pared down versions in furnishings with clean lines, minimal carved detail, gentle curves and legs that are delicate and taper to the floor are common in Swedish homes.

Wood is crucial in Swedish style.  Much of the country is forested and virtually all of the furniture is made of those woods. Through the centuries, the Swedes have developed a talent for painting pieces to make them look sophisticated and refined with soft finishes and subtle backgrounds.

Painted, bleached or stained woods in pale tones of white or gray with distressing retains its elegance that is 18th century Neoclassical design.

Today, reproduction furniture is made by Swedish craftspeople.  Ann Millang, owner of St. Barths Home in Laguna Niquel (formerly Swedish Blonde Furniture Inc. in North Carolina), recently had her home photographed in Laguna Beach by Edie Van Breems who authored a book titled “Swedish Interiors in America.”

“Things are changing in the industry due to competition from China,” Ann said.  “I have tried very hard to remain loyal to my Swedish factories since we have developed most of the designs with them and want them to do well. They are still using Swedish hardwoods and doing hand carved details on all the chairs and our bed finials. We are working with other countries such as Belgium, that still have the Northern influence of light finishes and woods, but with a bit more edge.”

In traditional Swedish interiors, accessories are kept to a minimum, allowing open space and light to take center stage.  Chosen for their usefulness and their virtual appeal, accessories include crystal and painted chandeliers, wood gilt framed mirrors to reflect what light there is, natural raffia or light colored woven textured rugs, soft, pale ceramics and clear glass pieces in simple shapes.

Simple woven and textured  cotton and linen fabrics are commonly used for upholstery, window treatments and bedding in Swedish design. Padded headboards and canopy beds are popular.  

Yards and yards of white fabric mounted on a coronet or attached with ring on the ceiling are often seen. When patterns are used, they are in the form of checks, stripes or delicate florals.

Predominant colors are pale blues and soft grays on a white background. The overall effect is minimalist. There is a lot of harmony with the simplicity of these colors and fabrics that create a serene Scandinavian feel.

Calm interiors, soothing pale color palettes, elegance with a lightness in color and mood, formal but not stuffy with a comfortable, casually aged feel – that is the essence of Swedish style.

Dear Abby, Dear Abby: No local angle, but IT'S DEAR ABBY DAMMIT and she's gone

(For more from Amee Ellsworth visit: http://www.allvoices.com/users/VoiceforHope)

California housewife Pauline Phillips wowed writers for almost 60 years with her advice, twists on situations and valued perspectives. She has died at the age of 94 in Minneapolis. Universal Uclick announced her death on its website. Mrs. Phillips suffered from Alzheimer's for many years.

Under the pseudonym “Abigail Van Buren,” Mrs. Phillips went from being an ordinary housewife to becoming America’s psychological counselor. Her syndicated column was read in more than 1,200 newspapers. It was read by 95 million people per day, who enjoyed her advice and guidance. It all started when she began writing for the San Francisco Chronicle.

“They gave her a bunch of letters, thinking that, that they would never see her again — and she immediately took all of the letters to my dad’s nearby office and whipped out answers... (more)

They got a little sloppy at Poppy

They got a little sloppy at Poppy...

  POPPY BOUTIQUE

16087 San Dieguito Rd, Ste D2
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067

phone 858.756.5528

Store Hours:
Mon-Wed
10am-5pm
Thurs-Sat
10am-6pm

The Country Friends 57th Annual Art of Fashion Show transforms Rancho Santa Fe into center of fall/winter fashion on Thursday, Sept. 20... 

Something very happening catwalks Rancho Santa Fe way on Thursday, Sept. 20, across a plain public green magically transformed into one of the largest outdoor fashion shows in the nation.

The Country Friends, in partnership with trendsetting South Coast Plaza, and The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, stages the ultimate in outdoor fashion events, the 57th Annual Art of Fashion runway show. 

It's a must-attend event for fashionistas, usually featuring creations from the world's leading designers and front-line, center-stage fall/winter collections. Upwards of 550 people generally make the day's activities.

The amazing festivities begins at 10:30 a.m. with boutique shopping on the lawn at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe followed by lunch at 11 a.m. The ultimate in outdoor runway shows kicks its heels "PROMPTLY" at 1:30 p.m. Then, an Apres' Affair Wine Tasting hosted, by Falkner Winery, Lemon Twist and Allure Chocolates, back at The Inn toasts off around 2:30 p.m as boutique shopping continues until credit cards are maxxed.

 The show highlights fashions from the 2012 fall/winter collections of renowned international designers such as Yves Saint Laurent, Dior, Valentino, Celine, Donna Karan, Roberto Cavalli, as well as clothes from Saks Fifth Avenue and Gucci. It's garnished with jewelry from such as  David Yurman and Black, Starr & Frost.

The Country Friends was founded in 1954 with 167 members. It has grown to more than 1,200 members and has distributed more than $12 million to San Diego County charities.

 The group funds more than two dozen charitable agencies each year, through events such as the Art of Fashion, and also proceeds from its consignment shop at Rancho Santa Fe, specializing in exquisite furniture, antiques, rugs, silver, china and objets d’art. Its mission is “helping people to help themselves.”

The event usually is sold out, so tickets probably are not available. However, it never hurts to check even at this late date. 

Valet parking is available at the event entrance. Tickets cost $225 for the fashion show and lunch, or $125 for the fashion show alone. They are available online at www.thecountryfriends.org or by calling (858) 756-1192, ext. 4.

Crush On Orange - A Daring Pick For Fall

 The color orange punches up a room like no other color.  Orange's bright hues and sunny disposition add zest and surprise to any style interior.  Wake up any room in your home with bold spashes of orange accents.  Use it sparingly or get drenched in it.

Orange glows with warmth and positive energy.  Without a doubt, orange is the happiest color in the spectrum.  Its uplifting and ivigorating qualities makes using orange in a room up-to-date, exciting, daring and very stylish.

Introduce orange into a room in a variety of ways from paint to fabric, to an infinite number of decorative details such as window treatments, furniture, art, and collections.  For example, the new dining room wall color this season instead of classic red, is orange.  This great, unexpected color adds a sense of warmth and fun while bringing a room to life.  Try using just a touch of bold, brave, outgoing orange on a fabric, or a funiture piece, would be all it takes to perk up and add a radiant surprise to a room.

In small rooms, choosing orange as the overall coloration can be dramatic.  All of the contrasting accent pieces - lamps, pillows, throws, etc. gain greater impact in small spaces that may not otherwise have great architectural interest.  

You can also layer this citrusy color by choosing a similar intensitiy in fabrics and textiles.  Mixing and matching patterns and solids adds to the fun in accenting a room.

Today, you can use a bright orange along with hot pink and a bold yellow, and it's not considered garish anymore!  It's important to keep this modernized combination to no more than three colors.  The key is to ensure that all the elements work well together in a pleasing way when using this fresh picked color scheme.

Why is orange considered the warmest hue?  Because it incorprates two different hot colors, red and yellow.  Add a little yellow to red and you get a wonderful shade of pumpkin.  This sumptuous fall shade enhances a space in an intimate way and shows off neutral furnishings.  Black or beige solid pieces are striking in a room enveloped in pumpkin.

If you're ready to paint on the orange, but not daring enough for the bright version, try toning it down in small doses of an amber or tangerine shade.

A designer friend of mine just finished a dining room project for his client.  The natural lighting in the room was fantastic, with great windows offering wonderful views.  He opted to paint the walls in a delicious shade of orange, a mango color.  He used white on the moldings, trim and windows.  It may have seemed daring at first for his client, but the end result could not have been more stunning.

In a kitchen, orange stimulates the appetite and imitates the glow of a fire.  Orange is also associated with high-tech culinary gadgets  Mixed with popular stainless steel appliances, this bold color is a great way to bring the space to life.  Brighten other kitchen areas with modern light fixtures with orange accents, artwork and natural floral/fruitful arrangements.  There are some amazing new dyes and stains for wood cabinetry in great orange palettes from mandarin to peach.  They're unique and very modern.

Orange can be timeless and classic in a traditional room.  An orange toile-patterened fabric is fabulous in any room of a home.  A powder room with upholstered walls in an orange document toile fabric is always perfect.  Bronzy sconces with accented antiqued silvered mirrors, sisal rugs and spice scented candles colored in amber hues create warmth, texture and an elegant feel.

Orange provides a modern, bright element when used in a contemporary space.  For a fresh point of view, balance a space with a subdued neutral or off-white palette to create a striking contrast.  In a contemporary, sophisticated bedroom, use neutral linens, walls, and flooring tones.  Add a pair of bold, daring orange chairs upholstered in a chenille, and a pair of architectural lamps with crystal bases and platinum brushed details to bedazzle and lift the spirits of anyone who enters the room.

What comes to mind when I think of orange are the changing colors of nature.  There are several mature, large liquid amber trees in my yard in Rancho Santa Fe, which I planted over 20 years ago.  Every fall, they burst into spectacular shades of oranges and reds.  It's magical to see my lawn turn into a "sea of orange" as I've been told.  While shopping for a few cheerful doses of orange to add to my home's seasonal decor, I bring along several of the leaves in various shades for a perfect match for fabrics or artful accents.  After all, every well-decorated room should begin with an inspiration.  Mine is the changing colors of autumn, highlighted in shades of orange.  As fall approaches, consider adding a burst or two of brave, vibrant and exciting orange.  

Quest for hats: A hat is a hat is a hat, but not actually, especially come Del Mar racing

                           Could that be designer Claudia Hapeman sporting veil, mask, and, possiby, hat?

Come opening day at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club; hats, hats and more hats are the madcap sidebar to the main story of the moment, namely the excitement of racing's return.

Thus begins the big fat hat dilemma for otherwise fashionable and well-appointed ladies.

Many women say they love hats, but never have occasion to wear them. Others complain a top hat, design-wise, is hard to find.

"Hat Day is opening Day," said Karen Moller, an official in the Country Friends. It's one of Rancho Santa Fe's leading charitable groups, with 1,100 members and a history of donating more than $12 million to local social service organizations since its inception in 1954. the ladies also have held a very impressive hat contest during their annual Day at the Races event, traditionally the second day of the meet, for 50 years.

"We have a hat parade and contest," Moller said. "It's just fun for women to find that perfect hat for the perfect outfit, but there are not many opportunities for women to wear hats.

"Hats are hard to find," Moller continued. "Nordstrom has a ton of them and boutiques in Del Mar Plaza, but that's about it."

Or consider the perspective of Ara Shamlyan, owner of the now defunct Scalini Restaurant, a longtime former fixture mere minutes from the Del Mar track.

Also a racing enthusiast, Shamlyan knows Royal Ascot at York, the premiere English thoroughbred racing event where hats have been the main course for hundreds of years. He has had is photo taken in the winner's circle at the Kentucky Derby with victorious Rancho Santa Fe horse breeders, and owners, such as Bob and Beverly Lewis.

"I've been going to the races here for many years," Shamlyan said. "Wearing hats is the perfect thing to do here.

"But buying hats in San Diego is difficult," Shamlyan quickly added. "There are no hat shops. It's not like the Kentucky Derby where the hotels set up hat boutiques for the women so they can match their hats to their dresses."

Claudia Hapeman models one of her designer hats.

 It is not enough to have just any hat, people say. those in the fashionable know must have a great hat, a hat with character and panache, a hat that stands up and out, over, and above the crowd of ordinary, more pedestrian, walking around hats.

Enter artist/designer Claudia Hapeman, best known locally for her ornate carnival masks. Seeing the need for high quality, exquisite and distinctive hats., and realizing the Del Mar racing crowd was counting down the days to the big show of hats at the track, Hapeman sprang into action.

Hats to her left, hats to her right, hats morning, noon and night. Hapeman spent the last few weeks buried at her studio on a quest for hats. She designed and personally constructed about 30 hats -- chic, stylish, smart, cool, hot, coolly coolly hot, in vogue, hip and smashing hats.

And now, the fruits of Hapeman's hat designs, part of her Modern Millinery collection and dot.com, are ready for their close-ups.

"Variety and variation, combination and customization," Hapeman said. "The sky is the limit for these hats. They are wearable, comfortable, well-balanced. They can be conversation pieces, works of art, decorated and highly individualized."

Another Hapeman in hat, hat.

 Hapeman's hats are priced from $65 to $500 depending on materials and complexity. She constructs them as one would a story or work of art. There's a background, middle ground and foreground providing a layered, and structurally sound look. Simpler hats may take a few off-and-on hours. Ornate, potential hat contest winners may take two or three days.

Most importantly, while a store such as Nordstrom has quality hats to be sure, they also are available to the many, not the only. Hapeman's collection is unique in offering one-of-a-kind hats nobody else will wear.

Hapeman grew up in Dutchess County, New York, horse country in the Hudson River Valley, about 90 miles north of New York City. She graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology.

An artist specializing in 3-D imagery and sculpture among other disciplines, Hapeman lived around Rancho Santa Fe for more than 10 years before recently relocating back to Dutchess County. She has been a longtime horse trainer and professional show jumper rider, winning numerous awards and competitions.

Hats may be commissioned, or obtained, through SoCal Venetian Masks at www.SoCalDesignCo.com .

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Hats aside, Claudia Hapeman has been busy this year. She is well known as a master mask-maker with Venetian carnival, and decorative designer masks featured at numerous A-List events throughout the nation. Her SoCal Design Company also has lines of capes and accessories such as mask sticks and stands, and yes, who doesn't need one -- feather boas.

Hapeman appeared in June on the season premiere of Gene Simmons' "Family Jewels" when she worked with the family on designs for daughter Sophie's Sweet 16 party.

Hapeman also designed masks for the Touchstone movie "You Again",  from Disney Pictures, and directed by Andy Fickman. The movie featured Kristen Bell, Jamie Lee Curtis, Sigourney Weaver, Kristin Chenowith and Betty White.

More than 100 of Hapeman's high-end, designer masks are featured by the Gilt Groupe, an invitation-only luxury shopping web site. She also has a relationship with high-end costume designer Frankie Stein. And not least, but last, she has created several masks for a super A-List personality whose name can not be publicly revealed due to contractual obligations.

Could that be designer Claudia Hapeman sporting veil, mask, and, possiby, hat?

Be my guest

Spring seems to turn to summer in a moment.  The spirit of entertaining is reborn as we're inspired by the warm air, long days, and a host of other reasons to bring family and friends together.

Whatever the occasion, or season, we're all going to have the pleasure of houseguests.  The not-so-often used bedroom now becomes the most important room in the house.

Anyone who has stayed at a luxurious hotel knows how addictive all the amenities are, and how difficult it can be to leave them behind.  Hosting visitors in a comfy 5-Star luxurious guest space is a fun and exciting challenge.  Guest bedrooms, decorated with carefully chosen furnishings, fabrics, and bedding are the rooms that can truly pamper your guests in an intimate, private retreat, and make them feel welcome.

When designing your guest bedroom, a good place to begin is with the bed.  A high quality mattress with sink-in comfort, dressed to the nines in sumptuous linens, that take their cue from boutique hotels, is an important element that will ensure a relaxed night's rest.  

A fluffy featherbed or mattress topper, such as memory foam or other natural alternatives make a bed luxurious.  High thread count sheets, lots of soft sleeping pillows, and a cozy down or down-alternative comforter can make a bed feel like you're diving into a cloud.  The options are endless.

I recently spoke with the assistant manager, Peggy Watson, at Between The Sheets in Flower Hill Promenade.  She stated, "We are seeing some specific trends in duvets and sheets in our area.  All the hues of Aqua and Ocean colors are trending, as well as Gray - from Pearl with silver thread enhancement to deep Charcoals.  Patterns in Gold and Taupe remain very strong, and there are requests for Purples and Lavenders.  We are also very excited about our Equestrian themed bedding from one of the fine Italian producers that we import."

Recently, I completed a guest bedroom in a gorgeous Rancho Santa Fe home.  I used a beautiful silk fabric in a distinctive buffalo check in bold blends of plum and purple hues.  My client was a little surprised at first at the lively colors in the fabric.  You can get away with more daring combinations of colors and designs in a guest bedroom.  

I combined the fabric to canopy antique iron twin beds, dressed in traditional mattelasses, then continued the fabric on the window treatments for the drapery and cornice.  At the foot of the beds, I had upholstered benches repeating the fabric.  The final look was daringly bold, yet sophisticated.  My client was thrilled at how striking the guest bedroom had transformed.  "I love the surprise factor," she happily said.

In creating a cozy sanctuary for weary travelers with all the comforts of home, close the door and let the pampering begin.  A reading spot with a comfortable chair and pleasing lighting makes a guest feel relaxed to enjoy a little downtime alone.  A bench at the foot of the bed for ease in unpacking a suitcase, and a table with a workspace for a computer would ensure your guest a blissful getaway intended for enjoying peaceful solitude.  Add thoughtful touches such as a bouquet of fresh flowers, assorted bottled waters, homemade munchies, soft pillows and extra blankets and throws, a daily newspaper, current magazines, and scented candles.

Kudos should go to the hosts and hostesses who thoughtfully plan rooms with their guests needs in mind.  With welcoming spaces that beckon the tired traveler in such an inviting ambiance, even homeowners may be tempted to check into their own grand guest getaway.

The Thrill of the Grill

No one can turn down a barbecue.  Americans love to cook and they love to eat outdoors.  Increasingly, people are claiming the outdoors as an extension of the comforts and convenience of home.  Cooking and dining alfresco is more popular than ever before.  Whether it's the fresh air, soaring coals, or a relaxed atmosphere, food just tastes better when it's cooked outside.

The most coveted room in the house, the kitchen, has moved outside into the great outdoors.  Outdoor kitchens offer a perfect place to prepare meals without missing out on all the backyard and poolside fun.  

Like all outdoor spaces, an outdoor kitchen should have a style that matches its surroundings.  Its location should be convenient for entertaining and relaxing.  Extra space used for dining tables and chairs, or for a counter bar with seating where you can mingle with the chef while he's concocting his favorite dish is important.  Dining areas outside need to be more generous than their counterparts inside.  Room for a table and chairs, plus space to move around easily is best.  Outdoor fireplaces should have plenty of space for comfortable seating and lounging for guests as well.  

Outdoor kitchens can be an a tremendous asset if they're well planned and well equiped.

Choosing materials that withstand the weather, are durable, and shed water, is practical.  Weatherproof surfaces for counter tops and workspaces such as ceramic tile or granite, guarantees years of durability and good looks throughout the seasons.  These materials also add a sense of luxury to the outdoor kitchen. 

Cabinet storage is an important element to an outdoor kitchen.  Cabinets alleviate the need to bring out necessary cooking equipment and utensils from inside that are used outdoors.  Storage is a luxury in any space, but especially in the outdoor kitchen.  Preparing meals with everything at hand as you would in the kitchen inside your home makes good sense.  No need to leave the party and make trips into the house time and time again.

Barbecuing has gone high-tech.  And the market for barbecue grills is hot. "Consumers are grilling much more than burgers and chicken today - and they are looking for quality tools and a greater range of accessories to have the versatility to cook any meal on the outdoor grill," said Trace Weskamp, Director of Accessories Product Development at Weber, the world's leading manufacturer of outdoor gas and charcoal grills..  New smoking accessories are one of the areas of focus for Weber.  Some of these accessories includes smoking woods such as hickory, apple, mesquite, cherry, pecan or beech, depending on the chef's choice of flavor.  Other new product lines are stainless steel smoker boxes which when placed on the cooking grates transforms any gas grill into a smoker.  I find the new Plancha Universal Griddle,  very interesting.  This flat top griddle enables grillers to cook a variety of dishes on the barbecue.  The Plancha features a slightly angled cooking surface, draining fats away from the food.  The cast-iron construction retains heat, while the porcelain-enameled surface resists sticking.

Spicy Italian outdoor kitchens whould likely feature an imported wood-fired pizza oven, perhaps from Naples.  They're integrated into a wall, create amazing flavors, and retain heat very well.  You can cook other foods beside pizza in these ovens such as fresh veggies.

To cool things down, how about a swim-up bar with benches that have "zero-depth access" to give the impression you swam up from the beach, for an apres dinner beverage?  Chill after you grill, and watch a movie or catch a game on a pop-up plasma while "beaching" it.  And then there's the swimming pool misting system that fogs for those special evenings when you want to create a certain mood while you take a dip.

By expanding indoor life outside, outdoor activities become a part of everyday existance.  Turning a blah backyard into a spectacular backyard kitchen where you can entertain, cook together, and have fun with family and friends, suddenly takes on a new and exciting dimension.  The outdoor kitchen is the perfect place for good food, good friends and great surroundings that can be enjoyed anytime of the year.  Now how would you like your steak cooked?

Style Matters with Penelope Voisen -- 'Spring Trends Are In The Air'

There’s a pretty outlook for Spring 2012.  On the home decorating front, it’s a season of renewal and reinvention.  Spring is the perfect time to change out a few accessories or introduce new colors to refresh the interior of your home.  Gorgeous new fabrics, embellished pillows, wall art, eco-friendly bedding, and stylish lighting are just a few examples that can invigorate a room.

Living responsibly with eco-awareness in furnishings and accessories continue to be a definite trend for Spring 2012.  Green design, using resource efficient and healthy materials, is good design.  Luxurious organic bed and bath linens, eco-silk draperies and table linens are making a strong debut.   Eco-friendly furniture made of recycled or reclaimed woods is very popular for the spring season, and are showing up more than ever throughout designer showrooms.  Bamboo, cork and other natural materials not only are a trend, but contain a certain character and texture that create a wonderful feel to a room.

 Color palettes for spring include beautiful upbeat yellows, fresh blues and lively pinks, along with a wide variety of clean whites.  Cheerful, happy and right-this-minute yellow for example, is popping up in furniture, linens, dishware and other accessories.  The power of optimistic yellow in interiors will bring a smile to everyone.

PENELOPE’S STYLE TIPS:

Dress your bed in luxury, organic linens.

Paint a guest room warm yellow, add dramatic coral accents.

Dazzle your dining table with gleaming silk or satin linens.  Your tableware will glow!

Add some sparkle to your sofa with bronze leather or sequined bordered pillows.

Use a silver leaf or metallic finish accent chair for a posh, glamorous addition to a room.

Sense the Italian influence this spring.  Serve pasta!  Open a bottle of red wine and listen to Luciano Pavorotti in the background – who could resist?

Other influences from cultures around the world are design trends that will be evident this spring season.  Furnishings from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East will be making a strong statement.  

 Hollywood glamour has caught the eye of the interior design industry as well.  Metallic home furnishings, fabrics, and accessories are a hot trend this spring.  New collections of rich opulence and couture flair in shimmering silver, pewter, gold and bronze are popular in everything from furniture and fabrics to the tabletop.

 We want our home to be stylish, comfortable and increasingly eco-friendly.  The trends for Spring 2012 offer many terrific options for creating and up-to-date home with classic past and present design elements that will create a spring-like ambiance of comfort and elegance.

Machel Penn Shull of 'Machel's Ranch' TAKES CHARGE AT MILLE FLEURS Mardi Gras 2012...

 Think its easy organizing social events? Check out Machel Penn Shull, of Machel's Ranch Social Column, taking charge of the photo opp at Mille Fleurs on Mardi Gras Day for an upcoming column. Identify the ladies in the photo for bonus points. Or check them out next month at Machel's Ranch. 

And then there's the observer from fringe unit...

 MEANWHILE, BACK AT THE ABBEY...

Adios...

Two From Don Bauder on Rancho Santa Fe's Own: Lady Catarina, Charles Brandes and 'The News'

(Photo:  Lady Catarina Pietra Toumei, left, with attorney Gretchen Von Helms at U.S. District Court, San Diego.)

Daily newspapers still report titillating items regularly. Early in February, the shapely Lady Catarina Pietra Toumei was charged in Manhattan with claiming she was a representative of the storied Guggenheim family as she tried to peddle fake diamond, gold, and oil investments. She is a social butterfly residing in Rancho Santa Fe (where else?). Trouble is, prurient readers could get this news for free online many hours before the newspaper reported the story the next morning.

So, it was not surprising that only a few days after the lady (who may or may not be a countess) dominated front pages that the big Sacramento-based newspaper chain McClatchy reported a 10 percent plunge in its January advertising revenue, compared with a year earlier. McClatchy’s earnings were about cut in half during the period. The stock plunged 12.2 percent that day.

Admittedly, the adventures of the comely Lady Catarina Pietra Toumei are more captivating than the plunging profits of McClatchy Company. But the ad sales drop of the newspaper company does interest us old fogies who concentrate on (1) money and (2) the media. Bottom line: it’s clear that investors, and perhaps the daily newspaper industry itself, are convinced that advertisers will continue to migrate to digital media, and even though dailies are stepping up their own efforts to make money online, it’s a losing battle. Ink and paper will continue in sick bay.

Daily newspapers are slashing costs, but that won’t be enough. There are rumors that the San Diego Union-Tribune, Los Angeles Times, Orange County Register, and smaller papers owned by MediaNews Group could consolidate under common ownership. Hedge funds that have scooped up debt of overleveraged Southern California papers “are intent on driving consolidation,” says columnist James Rainey of the Los Angeles Times. The individual newspapers would retain their identities and news staffs but would combine efforts in advertising sales, distribution, printing, and human resources, says Rainey.

Such consolidation would no doubt lead to even more personnel head chopping. But would more pogroms work? Wall Street analysts don’t think so. They think the future of the daily newspaper is grim. “We are skeptical of the New York Times’ ability to keep reducing costs, and are concerned that the company will run out of fat to trim and have to cut into muscle, hurting the quality of its product,” says Joscelyn MacKay of Morningstar Research. “The growing number of free online information sources continues to weigh on New York Times’ core business,” which is newspapers, representing 84 percent of sales.

Newspapers are 78 percent of the revenue of Gannett, the largest publishing chain. Free online competition hurts. “Circulation volumes are falling, and advertisers are shying away from newspapers,” says MacKay.

Standard & Poor’s says McClatchy suffers from “migration of advertisers to the Internet.” Ditto for the Washington Post, which is also burdened by its ownership of Kaplan, Inc., a for-profit college operation that could lose some of its federal funding because of past and present misbehavior.

Morningstar quit doing research on E.W. Scripps stock. In 2008, E.W. Scripps created a new entity for its fast-growing cable networks and interactive media. Now the original media chain has only laggardly newspapers and TV stations; the websites associated with the company account for a small percentage of revenue.

Today, the question is whether the iPad and other “tablet revolution” products will rescue the daily newspapers. Investors doubt it.

The stock market seems to agree with analysts’ skeptical views. Newspaper stocks are far off their all-time highs, although they are now up from their very depressed 2008–2009 lows. Example: Gannett stock sold for $91.38 in 2004. In the depths of the bear market in early 2009, it plunged to $1.85. On Friday, it closed at $16.98. McClatchy sold for $76.05 in 2005 and sank below 50 cents in 2009, as Morningstar warned it was worth nothing. On Friday, it closed at $4.24.

(Investor Charles Brandes, with ...third wife Tanya, has seen money under his management drop dramatically.)

This brings us to Charles Brandes, San Diego money manager. His firm, Brandes Investment Partners, bought into McClatchy at $44.50, becoming the media company’s largest institutional shareholder, with 14.63 percent of the stock. Then the Brandes firm committed one of Wall Street’s unforgivable sins: selling near the bottom — in McClatchy’s case, 70 cents. Similarly, the firm bought into Gannett between $36.50 and $55.50, becoming the largest shareholder with 11.25 percent of the stock. It dumped the stock in late 2009 for an average price of $7.21 — less than half the price it closed at on Friday, $16.98. (Copley Newspapers dumped the Union-Tribune near the bottom of the market too.)

Brandes also got into a lot of other stinkers, such as Countrywide Financial, the scandal-plagued mortgage pusher that Bank of America tried vainly to purify; Washington Mutual, a similar organization seized by the government in 2008; Royal Bank of Scotland, which fell under the watch and ward of the British government; and Freddie Mac (Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation), which went under U.S. conservatorship.

Charles Brandes’s investment strategy is to buy undervalued assets and wait until the stock price gets more realistic. A couple of decades ago, newspapers’ profit margins were around three times those of the average company. A former manager with the firm thinks that Charles Brandes kept expecting newspapers’ profits and stock prices to return to the good old days. He was not grasping “the reality of what was going on in print media — falling subscriptions, falling revenues. There was a paradigm shift” that more alert analysts perceived.

In 2005, Brandes Investment Partners had $101.9 billion under management. That’s down to $47.8 billion. But Charles Brandes built one of San Diego County’s most expensive homes. It’s 54,000 square feet on 30 Rancho Santa Fe acres and is worth at least $35 million. He lives there with his third wife, the lovely Tanya, and their enormous collection of cars and other chattels of the rich and chic. Meanwhile, he is having a knockdown, widely publicized divorce battle with his second wife.

Charles and Tanya are quintessential Beautiful People of the San Diego party set — pictured in the Union-Tribune in mid-2008 with David Copley at Cannes, for example.

On October 23, 2009, the Scripps Institution of Oceanography and David Copley put on a soiree to honor His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco. Charles and Tanya were there to socialize with the prince — and with Lady Catarina Pietra Toumei, another invitee.

I didn’t see it covered in the daily newspapers.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 (While attending the University of Wisconsin, Don Bauder held a number of posts at the campus newspaper, including editor in chief. He received a bachelor's degree in business (1959) and a master's in journalism (1961) and then spent four years in advertising and PR. In 1964, he joined the Chicago bureau of Business Week magazine as reporter/writer. In 1966, he got the job as bureau chief in Cleveland.

Don left Cleveland in 1973 to become financial editor and columnist for the San Diego Union. When the Union and Tribune merged in the early 1990s, he remained at that post; in '95, he was named senior columnist at the Union-Tribune. He retired from the U-T in March of 2003 and began writing his weekly column for the Reader in April of 2003. He started up his Reader blog — Scam Diego — in September of 2007.

In 1985-1986, Don wrote Captain Money and the Golden Girl (a book about a local Ponzi scheme), which stayed on the L.A. Times best-seller list for more than two months. He's been married for nearly 50 years and has two sons.)

View from Machel's Ranch: 'Sunshine fills Rancho Santa Fe with inspiration and parties'

(From left: 1. Timothy Nunn, Artist Joelle Blouin and her agent, Edward at Legends Gallery in La Jolla; 2. Make your Valentine’s reservations at Mille Fleurs this year! Chef Martin Woesle is featured here with Jill Drouin and Joe, two of Mille Fleurs’ fantastic staff members; 3. Order you flowers or chocolate covered strawberries from Lemon Twist on Valentine’s Day, located on Del Dios Highway across from Cielo. Photos: Machel Penn Shull.)

How do you keep yourself inspired every day? Do you ever get up and think, “This is it, same thing as yesterday. How long will life continue on with this same routine?” Yes, life can be boring, methodical and sometimes just plain humdrum. What do you do when this happens? Do you decide to pity yourself? Feel like life is predictable and what is the point?

 I admit the reason I am writing this is because I encountered these feelings this week. Yes, I too, can find the eucalyptus trees and the design of the perfect landscape in California just a bit on the blah side. While winter is happening elsewhere in the world, we are constantly blessed with pretty amazing weather. No reason to whine about that, right? Well, we must hibernate, recharge, regroup and reinvent ourselves. Even though there are moments that can eclipse us that make us feel bored, we must remind ourselves of each and every blessing. I recently looked through some of my photos and thought, “These pictures show a beautiful life.”

I soon realized that although it’s tempting to indulge in idleness, we must stop ourselves from this pitfall. The challenge is to remain upbeat, youthful and hopeful with each new day. We may think we know what’s going to happen and that we’ve got it all figured out. However, life still remains a mystery … just like the nature of true love. With the “Month of Love” upon us, I found some fun events in and around the Ranch. Happy Valentine’s Day Rancho Santa Fe!

Around Town

On Jan. 28, Karian Forsyth, one of the top five women I love to feature in “Machel’s Ranch” held her first 2012 monthly spa party in The Crosby. On a hot Saturday afternoon, these ladies enjoyed fine pampering, good company and excellent food that day.

I turned out to be the unlucky one that at the last minute was unable to make it due to some unexpected events, which prohibited me from indulging with some of my favorite friends. I have included a stolen moment from that day that shows these women making the most of their time by sharing their souls and time with each other. How wonderful.

On Jan. 30, I received some exciting news about one my favorite friend’s family members. Claude Whitney — a superior judge in Orange County for over 30 years — turned 81 on a fabulous Sunday with his loved ones. Talk about making life fun and worth living; Claude is a black diamond skier who “Skis for Free” as he is more than 70 years old. From Skiing in Aspen and Telluride to Deer Valley, nothing is going to slow down Claude Whitney.
I have include a beautiful photo of him surrounded by his wife and loved ones. Happy birthday Claude. Meredith MacDonald is the very proud stepdaughter of Claude Whitney.

(From left: 1. Hostess, Karian Forsyth poses with some of her gorgeous guests at the Forsyth’s Super Bowl party Sunday; 2. Claude Whitney celebrates his birthday with his wife Cici Whitney and the MacDonald clan; 3. First Spa party of 2012 under a golden sun.)

On Feb. 1, I stepped into my husband’s shoes and helped out at Lemon Twist — the flower shop/fruit-stand in the Ranch across from Cielo. While the sunny day brought in steady customers, I helped organize and figure out new exciting gifts for Valentine’s Day for locals in the Ranch. Lemon Twist is famously known for the delicious chocolate-covered strawberries, which is a mouth-watering, pleasing gift for any loved one. But did you know Lemon Twist is also a gift/floral shop with specialty items, gift baskets, orchids, caramel chocolate popcorn, and beautiful bouquets? For any questions or to order in advance, call (858) 756-0826.

Ask about the “special” for chocolate covered strawberries, too. I will be there all day on Valentine’s Day. Stop in and see us. I will have my camera to capture this wonderful holiday we love to celebrate at Lemon Twist.

On Feb. 2, I stopped in at my favorite restaurant in Rancho Santa Fe — Mille Fleurs. If you have read my column over the years then you know that this restaurant has always had a special place in my world. From amazing birthday parties to summer parties, I have enjoyed the ambience, the food and the staff at the best French restaurant in Southern California. I met briefly with Chef Martin Woesle. Chef Martin has been the chef at Mille Fleurs for more than 27 years. I found out the skinny on Valentine’s Day at Mille Fleurs. Check out millefleurs.com for details on this amazing special going on if you want to woo your loved one. Call (858) 756-3085 for details.

On Feb. 3, I ventured to La Jolla to Legends Gallery where I work part-time weekly, which I absolutely love. Art has been one of my passions and obsessions most of my life. So when I met Roree Mayhew, the director of Legends, a few months ago, you can just imagine me doing a little “Audrey Hepburn” smile all the way to my car parked a couple of blocks away, ironically next to a chapel. (Prayers do work wonders you know.) A few months later, I am excited to be selling art and meeting the artists there. On that note, Joelle Blouin — a top selling Canadian artist from Quebec City — has risen to quick acclaim in the art world. Only 26 years old, Joelle has gone from one gallery to seven in under one year. Her bold colorful paintings of city skylines are magnificent. Visit joelleblouin.com or contact me directly for more information on her paintings.

On Feb. 5, I attended Karian and Tom’s Super Bowl party in the Crosby. What can I say? These photos speak for themselves. Here are two group shots of the guests that came in high style for one of America’s favorite past times.

SAVE THE DATE

On Feb. 16, don’t miss out on a must-attend Fashion event happening in La Jolla. San Diego Food Bank’s Chris Carter was kind enough to invite me to this fabulous day at the second annual Fashion Plates Luncheon and fashion show designed by TV personality Leonard Simpson. The silent auctions starts at 10:30 a.m. sharp, which is followed by the luncheon and fashion show. This event will be held at the Hyatt Regency in La Jolla. To reserve your tickets, contact Megan Mills at (858) 863-5121 or visit sandiegofoodbank.org.

Style Matters with Penelope Voisen: THE THANKSGIVING TABLE TOASTING AMERICA'S RICHNESS...

Ah, Thanksgiving – the holiday that toasts America’s richness and bounty as no other.

When we think of the loving labor that goes into preparing dinner for relatives and friends, it can anything but a holiday.  The Thanksgiving table allows us to keep the day special, beautiful, and relaxing without being stuck in the kitchen.

Whether you’re having a San Diego style get-together, celebrating somewhere in the country, or somewhere in between, holiday decorating should be consistent with your personal style and the look of your home.

The focal point for any dining room is the table.  How well you dress your dining table can transform your dining room from day to night, or season to season.

Starting ahead of time will help keep things organized in preparing your table for the Thanksgiving gathering.  One of the biggest pleasures of entertaining for me is dressing the table.  I love to spend time experimenting in setting what I think will be the perfect tablescape – from the dishes to the centerpiece to the candles, even the background music.

Staging the table sets the tone for a special meal.  When you lead guests into the dining room, you want them to see a beautiful, inviting place that you, the hostess, created to make them feel special.

 Today, tableware, linen, flatware, serving dishes, plates and glassware come in many intriguing colors, shapes, styles, and materials.  The choices are virtually endless when choosing a scheme for your Thanksgiving table.  Presenting your favorite collection in a creative, imaginative way, makes the difference between a so-so meal or an unforgettably elegant and charming one.

Linens, in any table setting style, define the look of the dining table.  For a formal, traditional table, using white or off-white, usually works best.

Heirloom, or fine china, sterling silver flatware, and fine crystal are expected at a formal table.  Other elegant touches to build on might include oversized, textured chargers in a metallic finish.  Mixing sterling and other classic touches add a luxurious  element to a formal table.

Decorative place cards are often used to give a warm welcome to guests.  It’s fun to mix modern touches in a formal setting.  A soft, fresh floral arrangement in a modern clear bowl or vase, or a more earthy arrangement using greenery and fruit can contrast a classic formal setting.

There are hard set rules to break about table setting style, so it’s always challenging and fun to pare down a formal adaptation as to not risk being too stuffy.

One of my favorite lines of fine china is Haviland.  Haviland has been manufacturing French porcelain china at its factory in Limoges, France since 1853.  I spoke with their National Sales Manager, Maureen Ferrel, to find out what the latest trend is at Haviland.

“Fashion for the table, Laque de Chine is getting a lot of attention right now,” she said.   “This is Haviland largest and most successful launch ever.  Laque de Chine is available in a dozen dreamy colors with gold and platinum trim, and be a stand alone pattern, or used as complimentary pieces to an existing collection.”

In a more casual, rustic setting, centerpieces and other table decorations should celebrate nature.  The simplest arrangements using pumpkins, gourds, apples and nuts, along with fresh floral and greenery work well.  Baskets, pottery,  or terracotta containers  work best for their textures and country feel.  Theses special touches make us feel thankful when we sit down to the Thanksgiving table.

A rustic Thanksgiving table demands earthenware, stoneware, and ceramics as opposed to china.  Wood accented flatware is wonderful when pared with these dishes, however silver seems to always go with everything, as silver adds a little sparkle to any table.

Other elements for the dining room should be lots of soft lighting, votive candles, and even a crackling fire in the fireplace, would blend to create a gracious, relaxed, elegant setting to enjoy your Thanksgiving feast.

Eating and drinking should be reveled in and make most of the celebrating feeling thankful.   May your Thanksgiving table, whether formal or rustic, be simply stunning, and the day enjoyed by family, friends, fabulous food – and plenty of football!

F'in advisor Steve Sexton, legalite Mike Walters, and Kerman Beriker from the Inn at RSF

 (San Diego Entertainer Magazine goes all puffy at the Inn at Rancho Santa Fe. Enjoy!)

Each month San Diego Entertainer Magazine presents entertainment and lifestyle segments on E&L TV. The show airs the first Sunday of the month at 5pm on Channel 6 (CW).

Past shows have included segments with financial expert Steve Sexton, local artists like The Riders, and local businesses from the Coronado Boathouse to Vasseur Day Spa. In this month’s show, you’ll be treated to find even more great San Diego stories.

The show is hosted at the Inn at Rancho Santa Fe. This location is a true San Diego staple for visitors and locals alike. It’s a hot spot for celebrities and has played host to past presidents and Hollywood royalty. It’s tucked in the hills in North County San Diego and overlooks rolling hills and riding trails, giving guests a taste of the country just a few miles from downtown. Hear from Kerman Beriker, the managing director at the Inn about what makes the Inn at Rancho Santa Fe so special.

In the September show you’ll also see a familiar face — expert financial advisor Steve Sexton. Steve has been providing financial advisories to Entertainer readers for over 2 years now, and we’re happy to share more advice on how to manage finances in these turbulent economic times. In Steve’s segment you’ll also learn more about finding money that has “fallen through the cracks” and how many people in San Diego have used those monies to help charities in need.

Community Resource Center (CRC) Uses Rancho Santa Fe Fund to Deal with Looming Food Shortage 

Tickets:  $75 each

VIP Table Packages:  $1,000 

(Reserved seating for 8 guests with select wines and extras) Tickets are available online at  http://www.crcncc.org or by phone at 760.230.6305.)

Community Resource Center’s 29th Annual Holiday Baskets Program is the largest comprehensive holiday distribution program of its kind in San Diego County, and expects record registration requests among North County families this year.  However, current food shortages at CRC could force dramatic cuts in the numbers served at Holiday Baskets this December.  

“We serve over 9,000 individuals a year through our food, shelter, and domestic violence programs, and the current food crisis is having a ripple effect on everything we do for the community,” says Laurin Pause, CRC Executive Director.  Federal budget cuts have significantly reduced food allotments nationwide to distribution centers like CRC.  The agency has struggled to keep pantry shelves stocked, and has been unable to stockpile supplies of food for Holiday Baskets and other emergency distributions.  “San Diego County still has not received its federal allotments for food distribution to households in crisis, and when we do get it, we expect a twenty five-percent reduction in the allotment.  It’s not looking good.”  This news comes on the right as CRC begins its planning for the renowned Holiday Basket’s Program which distributed more than 48 tons of food to local families in need last year.

For the first time since the endowment fund was established at the Rancho Santa Fe Foundation, CRC has decided to withdraw earnings to help bridge the gap.  “It’s not ideal, but we feel compelled to access our auxiliary funds to ensure our food supplies remain adequate in the face of these reduced allotments.  If CRC doesn’t do this, there’s nowhere else in our community these struggling families can turn to.  We are it.”

In 2010, over 200 groups and organizations and more than 1,600 volunteers come together to brighten the holidays for over 1,400 households through CRC’s Holiday Baskets program.   A total of 6,400 individuals were served by the annual program, with children accounting for roughly half of those served.  CRC manages year-round programs for food and rental assistance as well as a comprehensive domestic violence services program that includes Carol’s House, a confidentially located shelter in North County.

CRC’s annual fall fundraising event will take place in Rancho Santa Fe this year, and is part of the organization’s effort to bring critical funding to its programs.  The event, “Autumn Equinox – September Soiree in Rancho Santa Fe,” will take place at Villa de Flores and aptly promotes themes of harvest and passage.  Autumn Equinox includes an array of auction packages, hors d'oeuvres, wine, and much more.

Rosalie Cushman Considers: The Incomparable Grand Del Mar...

There is an ineffable quality about the 249-room Grand Del Mar resort.  Still, like the painter straining to convey the essence of a beautiful woman, I take a stab at describing one of the most remarkable resorts in the San Diego area.  I’ve been fortunate, indeed, to spend some time with both Warren Sheets, Designer for The Grand Del Mar’s exquisite interiors, and Tom Voss, President of the Manchester Grand Resorts Group and have come away from both encounters even more awed by The Grand Del Mar’s creation.  

But let’s go back.  About eight months ago a friend asked me for lunch at one of the resort’s restaurants.  I arrived alone and upon walking into the lobby, my heart stopped.  Well, maybe not stopped but certainly it skipped a beat.  Struck by no ordinary beauty, I was instantly immersed into a Mediterranean cascade of art.  An avalanche!  I felt transported to Tuscany, an immediate and profound mood of old-world excellence and beauty that felt voluptuous, reverent, inviting, and comforting.  Yes, comforting.  It was impossible for me to not be affected.   A staff person asked if I needed any assistance, and upon my telling her “no, I was just meeting a friend for lunch,” the woman discretely stepped back, leaving me to bask in the beauty.

Now let’s go forward.  Upon meeting first Warren Sheets then conversing with Tom Voss I have come to learn many facts about The Grand Del Mar, some of them captivating and all of them, impressive.  In addition, while walking with Warren through the hotel one day I learned of his amazing artistic eye, fusing 16

For example, the columns standing in the lobby are made from cubic stone imported from Verona craftsman, an Italian family who has been artisans for over 300 years.  The carpet Warren selected incorporates his own medallion design that is also threaded throughout the hotel in various locations; on wall coverings, parchment lamps, even grille work.  In stunning Italian tradition, his chosen frescos fix the visitor’s eye on floors, walls, and ceilings.  Warren told me he was “very passionate about designing this place – I couldn’t do it any other way”.   Essentially, he has incorporated the most massive amount of beauty I’ve ever seen in this kind of facility, without it being a museum.  Yet it does not feel formal or fussy; quite the opposite, actually.  Remarkably, the five-star, five-diamond resort is not just beautiful, it is so very comforting.

 Age-old wisdom claims that beauty is therapeutic, healing at its core; that it offers a respite from the grist of ordinary life.  Beauty speaks its own language and at its best, connects us mere mortals to both a primordial yet celestial level.  There seems to be an avalanche of this connectedness in the design at The Grand Del Mar and that is the very thing that creates its’ uniquely comforting quality.  And if that sounds odd, just go there and you will know of which I speak.

Later, when chatting with Tom Voss, President of The Grand Del Mar, time and again he spoke of feedback from guests who repeat, “It is so beautiful here”, a theme that reverberates like an echo in a canyon, right along with the guests who return for subsequent stays.  When guests are asked ‘what they’d like to see changed’, Tom indicates their most frequent answer is “not a thing!”  He also told me they frequently hear guests who, coming to the resort for the first time say, “your website doesn’t do it justice”.  Well, the grace of a place is not subject to translation through electrons always and while a picture can be worth a thousand words, being there can be worth a million.

In addition to its beauty, I was to learn that The Grand Del Mar has an excellent Tom Fazio designed golf course, an elegant Spa, the renowned Addison Restaurant, along with Amaya and M Club dining rooms (my lunch was phenomenal, by the way).  The Grand Del Mar now sports a new Equestrian Center, not to mention the fabulous pools.  The resort is situated beside the 4,100 acre Los Penasquitos Preserve with three and a half miles of hiking trails complete with a naturalist on staff.  And while it is easily accessible to numerous San Diego activities, from the Zoo to the Del Mar Race Track to Sea World or the beach, it is the beauty of the place and retreat-like quality guests come for and return to. 

“It is completely in nature,” Tom Voss tells me.  “It is so beautiful,” the guest comment cards thrum over and over again.  In a turn, Tom says “so many guests don’t ever even leave the grounds,” he confides, almost perplexed.  It seems that between the art-inspired interiors, conscientious and caring staff, fabulous food at a person’s fingertips, why would they?  The place is intoxicating.   For my part, I could so easily set up camp in the Great Room just off the lobby, very near the library, living out the rest of my life there!

It is all so very beautiful. 

For additional information on The Grand Del Mar, visit www.granddelmar.com.  Warren Sheets current projects include two home designs in Rancho Santa Fe.  For additional information on Warren, please visit www.warrensheetsdesign.com.

Country Friends spring membership luncheon brings 23 new members and help for local groups

                                    (Photo: Betsy Heightman, Shelly Dew, Annie Garcia, Melissa Brown)

The Country Friends, based in Rancho Santa Fe where their Consignment Shop is situated, moved their Spring Membership Luncheon plus Fashion Show east and enjoyed the amenities of the Rancho Bernardo Inn.

More than 140 women came to shop May 4 and enjoy the styles presented by TRE Boutique (The Rare Earth), with outlets in Del Mar, Carlsbad and 4S Ranch. Thirty ensembles from the shops owned by Rochelle Johnson and Sheree Vihon were paraded.

The event co-chairwomen were Anna Waite and Kathe Votsis.

Among those attending were Yvette Letourneau, Cheri Salyers, Terri Chivetta, Laing Rikkers, Deborah Cross, Sophia Alsadek, Tonita McKone, Jo Ely, Laureen Bolstad, Donna Ahlstrom, Andrea Muir, Eileen Menees, Edna Sahm, Betsy... (more)

BREAKING NEWS 11 P.M. - HELEN WOODWARD ANIMAL CENTER 'SPRING FLING' KICKING IT  UNTIL DAWN...

 Several hundred of Rancho Santa Fe and San Diego's finest are dining, dancing and doing the Bow-Wow-Wow at Helen Woodward Animal Center as the Wayne Foster Entertainment conglommeration fills the Big Tent with the sounds of forever.

 (Robin Shull and Machel Shull hosted the best Lemon Twist table ever at the best Spring Fling in memory.)

The event kicked off at 5:30 p.m. with hors d-oeuvres for those who dared compromise appetites before the big restuarant for-all. I couldn't get to ALL of it, but what I did BLEW MY MIND (and stomach buds).  Everything was so good, ummmm, yum. Some faves were the lambchops from somewhere that wasn't listed in the program, Sbicca Bistro's I don't what it was, but it was gooood, Zel's Del Mar pizza, Trulocks fish in batter something that brought me to my knees, Lemon Twist choco-covered-strawberries. I couldn't find Phil's BBQ, but they were supposed to be there. Roy's Hawaiian Fusion, Firenze Trattoria, Cin Cin, THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!

 Broadway Tails, as the 'Spring Fling' was known also feaured silent and live auctions, presentations and awards, opportunity awards and even a special lounge where people and the pets that own them could hang for a few.

As soon as we know, we'll let you know what they took in to help the center's varied and important operations throughout the year. But we gotta get ito our doggie bag for some more of them lamb chops. YEOWWIE...

(Photos above: Live auction and dancing or somethng done in the 'impressionistic' style...)

Helen Woodward Animal Center’s 23rd Annual Spring Fling is Saturday, June 4

 Promises! Promises! That’s Entertainment! 

Helen Woodward Animal Center’s 23rd Annual Spring Fling

We’re making, “Promises Promises” that guests will say, “That’s Entertainment” when Helen Woodward Animal Center (HWAC) hosts its 23^rd annual Spring Fling fundraiser, “Broadway Tails,” on Saturday, June 4, 2011. 

The Spring Fling presented by The Fish Market and EDCO, is San Diego’s premiere black tie event in support of animals and people in-need. The curtain rises at 5:30 PM (until Midnight) under the Center’s covered arena at 6461 El Apajo Road. 

“Most of the upper level tickets have been sold, but we still have a few seats in the other levels,” says HWAC Special Events Supervisor Meghan Trejo. “Co-Chairs Kerry Appleby Payne, Elizabeth Wohlford MacLeod, and Charlene Hooker, with Honorary Chairs Steve and... (more)

Clean Your Closets For a Great Cause! Rancho Rags For Riches at Fairbanks Village Saturday April 16th!

 The ‘Rancho Rags for Riches’ Rummage Sale to benefit United Cerebral Palsy of San Diego, will be held on Saturday, April 16 from 7:00am-12:00pm at the Fairbanks Village Plaza.

The Rummage Sale features clothing, household items, electronics, small appliances, and indoor/outdoor furniture. To donate, items can also be dropped off on Thursday, April 14th, and Friday, April 15th. For more information, contact andrene.dz@gmail.com orterridavis1@gmail.com.  

The sale is taking place at Fairbanks Village Plaza,16236 San Dieguito Road in Rancho Santa Fe. Proceeds will benefit individuals with disabilities through United Cerebral Palsy of San Diego.

Also on the Beach & Cuntry Guild plate to benefit United Cerebral Palsy San Diego:

May 9

2nd Annual Ladies Spring Golf Classic

Santaluz Golf Club

42nd Annual Dia Del Sol

Rancho... (more)

The Arc of San Diego’s annual gala, The Jewels of San Diego, is back this spring...

 (This story is courtesy of the Arc of San Diego. For more consider the source here...)

The Arc of San Diego is the largest, most comprehensive service provider for people with disabilities in San Diego County. It serves over 2,500 children and adults with disabilities such as mental retardation, autism, cerebral palsy and Down syndrome each year.

For the past 60 years The Arc has been offering a wide range of services including early instruction for infants and toddlers, adult day programs, residential care, independent living skills training, vocational training and employment placement programs.

The Arc of San Diego’s annual gala, The Jewels of San Diego, is back this spring with a fresh, new twist. The Carrousel du Louvre Fashion Runway Extravaganza will take place on April 9 at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina.

Event Chairs Phyllis and John Parrish are long-time supporters of The Arc of... (more)

'Machel's Ranch' -- Milestone birthday allows us to take time for reflection...

By the time you read this, I will have entered into a new decade. Yes, that’s right. I am turning 40 this month. I thought I would share with my readers that fact. I must be honest, approaching this number has been quite an introspective time for me. I tend to reflect and digest this last decade with open arms to my mistakes and victories.

One of the happiest periods of my life has been in the newspaper business. It sort of came to me by accident when my son started kindergarten at Roger Rowe Elementary. I met a photographer at his school, inquired about a job and the next thing you know I am knee deep in newspapers cluttering my car for the next seven years.

What I have learned from this is sometimes a new circumstance will occur. Your life will shift in a way you had not planned. Then you end up happier than you could have ever imagined. Coincidentally, this issue is my three-year anniversary of writing “Machel’s Ranch.” So cheers to you, readers. Cheers to finding new opportunities and the ability to make each day count.

Around Town

On Jan. 27, I received some exciting news from Anthony Sorge. His son Matthew and his buddy Jake Johnson were given a private lesson by former Padre Adrian Gonzalez. The Johnsons and the Sorge family won in an auction a private batting session right before baseball tryouts. How exciting for these two boys.

On Feb. 5, my good friend Jill Sorge hosted a Sadie Hawkins pre-dance party. The actual dance was later that evening at the San Diego Air & Space Museum in Balboa Park. The theme, famous couples, had all of the students dressing in fashionable costumes.

On Feb. 8, Ranch resident Corky Mizer celebrated his birthday with an intimate celebration with just a few of his good friends. Some of my column regulars just happened to be on hand, too, for this special evening. Many of you know Tom and Karian Forsyth. They are one of the best-dressed couples in Rancho Santa Fe. I just saw them the other night at Mille Fleurs looking like they had arrived straight from the ski slopes in Aspen, Colo. I am one of their biggest fans. Nothing brings a smile to my face more than a gorgeous couple that also looks stunning, too. Happy Birthday Corky! You also look fabulous.

On Feb. 14, the Rancho Santa Fe Rotary held their weekly meeting at the Inn at Rancho Santa Fe. Celebrating Valentine’s Day, the Rotarians enjoyed their lunch and each table was decorated with flowers and balloons. One of the treats for that meeting was chocolates from Allure Chocolat. Some of the current events mentioned at that meeting included, Rotary Happy Hour, which will be at 5 p.m. March 3 and The Rotary Rummage Sale, which will be held March 26. 

The Community Center is allowing drop-off items for this event on Wednesdays, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. I have included two photos from that meeting, one is of the two local chiefs of Rancho Santa Fe and the other is a beautiful photo of the Manion sisters.

That very same day, exciting things were happening for Lemon Twist. If you are unfamiliar with this name, Lemon Twist is a local produce/flower gift business that was established in Rancho Santa Fe more than30 years ago by Katie Shull.

In 2007, Lemon Twist burnt down from the Witch Creek Fire. So you can imagine after three years how excited Katie Shull was to see her business finally resurrected. Her son Robin Shull manages the property. I have included the photo that captures the excitement that day of being open again on one of the busiest days of the year.

On Feb. 15, I received a chic photo taken straight from New York City’s Fashion Week. Del Mar residents and newly married couple Tony and Bianca Macaluso were up close and personal with the models. Here is a photo from that day, which features the designer, Herve Leger. Thanks so much for keeping me in the loop. You two are such jet-setters.

Fashionlush XXX with Cardiff's Erica Stolman - Get out of that funk and into those Charlotte Olympia kicks; Followed by Nylon at Fashion Week '11 Jeremy Scott Video...

“I love the youngster hippies reppin’ their personal style way better than I ever did when I was growing up. If our beautiful city starts to evolve and appreciate the art of fashion, originality, and creativity — then we could really make our way up in the fashion food chain.”

 -- Erica Stolman http://www.fashionlushxx.com/

Erica also is manager of Pret A Porter clothes, 673 Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, CA 92075, (858) 481-5114, Hours: 10 am - 6 pm Mon-Fri 10 am - 4 pm Sat. 

Dreamin' of Charlotte Olympia kicks

Well, lately I have been in a funk...

Don't you just have those days where you just can't figure out what to wear... and you end up leaving the house looking way less cute than you thought?

Well, that is how I have been feeling lately. I have been searching for an answer to this "so-so" fashion approach my life has take. More clothes is definitely not the issue (you should see my closet), too many choices?

Maybe... gotta go through my closet soon. Yet, as none of these are the issue- I think I figured out the real quick fix to this problem. I am sure all of you know this, but the best way to spice your look up is definitely some awesome shoesies!!

You are out and about, and if the girls outfit is jeans and a white tee, some killer shoes always make you drool and identify her as "best dressed". You know you do it, we all do. So I think I will allow myself to browse some outfits based around shoes- and tomorrow, rain or shine, I am putting my flat over the knee boots in the back of the closet, and slip into my most fun pair of sky highs.

Now, only if I had some Charlotte Olympia kicks (most notably- the fruit shoe), I'd be set... but I don't- so therefore I improvise.

xx, fashionlush

MILK KILLS

thanks to NYLON, we were given this fabulous snippit of Mister Jeremy Scotts' fashion week 2011 show. Wish I were there, one day!!

'Machel's Ranch' - Ranch’s own Julien Hug remembered on his birthday

Julien Hug’s birthday is in the beginning of February. I want to acknowledge his beautiful parents, Denise and Bertrand Hug.

You raised an amazing son and all us who were lucky enough to know him feel blessed that he was part of our lives.

I hope this town keeps his memory alive by supporting Mille Fleurs. 

I even wrote a column a couple of years ago and called it my “My happy place, the secret’s out,” based on different vignettes that all took place under the stars at their beautiful restaurant.  Thank you, to the Hug family for filling my life with so many wonderful memories. Sometimes, it’s more important to remember than to forget.

It’s more important to keep those memories alive, with fond wishes and gratitude toward his family.

Around town

On Jan. 26, Little League had makeup evaluations at Richardson’s field in Rancho Santa Fe. Boys from all age groups that missed the weekend tryouts showed up in droves for this popular division in San Diego. Let’s just say if makeup day is any indication to how this season is going to be, it going to be a dynamite season. I just want to say thanks to all of those in charge in the Rancho Santa Fe Little league for taking time out of your busy schedule to be a coach or an assistant.

You know what they say, “Play ball!”

I have featured a photo from the Celebrity Tournament at Rancho Valencia on Jan. 29. I have it on good authority that was also local resident Jason Barry’s birthday that very day. Happy belated birthday Jason.

 

Later that day, Ranch resident Violet MacDonald’s daughter-in-law, Meredith MacDonald, celebrated her stepdad’s 80th's birthday up in Newport at the luxurious Balboa Bay Yacht Club & Resort. If you’ve ever been privy to eating lunch or dinner there, you know firsthand that the view from your dining table is filled with expensive yachts lining the harbor.

 

 

Claude Whitney — a former judge in Newport — enjoyed his long life with all family members, along with his wife CC Whitney of Newport Beach. Thank you for sharing your lovely event with me. Here is a photo from that day, which features their family together for that special day.

On Jan. 30, longtime Ranch residents Dottie and Ed McCrink celebrated their 90th birthdays (they both turned 90 in January) in style with family and friends at the Rancho Santa Fe Country Club. More than 100 guests arrived in fine fashion for this special occasion. Some events eclipse others, and this was definitely a special night. I feel blessed to say that Dottie and Ed are my grandparents by marriage.

The McCrinks moved here in the early 1970’s, and have been an integral part of this community since then. All six children were on hand, including their many grandchildren. I have included four photos from that evening. Also Patrick Galvin, president of the Rancho Santa Fe Rotary, was there as well with his gorgeous wife. They are featured here, along with Dottie and Ed McCrink. Ranch residents Bill and Carolyn Fleischman were there, and I have featured Laurel McCrink with her niece, Natalie Shull.

On Feb. 2, Elaine Gallagher sent some very important information to me regarding someone local who is spreading the word in fighting breast cancer. Local San Diego resident Andrea Scheider has written a book called, “You A Not Alone: Life After A Breast Cancer Diagnosis,” in hopes of educating and reaching women on how to prevent and detect breast cancer. I have included a photo of Andrea here. If you know someone with breast cancer or would like to find out more information for yourself, please check out Andrea’s website at thriveandsurvive.net. She has a wonderful quote listed on her home page that states, “The only courage that matters is the kind that gets you from one moment to the next,” by Migon McLaughlin. Elaine Gallagher, thank you for connecting me with your good friend Andrea Scheider. Her book looks like a winner read.

Save the date

Don’t miss the Grand Opening on March 12 — just around the corner. In case you don’t know, Lemon Twist is the only business that burnt down during the massive Witch Creek Fire in 2007. Local resident Katie Shull started the business, which is located across from Cielo, more than 30 years ago. In the meantime, before the grand opening, Lemon Twist is already open again, after temporarily closing due to wintertime. I have featured a photo here of it, so you can make your way down to buy some local organic produce. For more history on Lemon Twist, visit www.lemontwistfruitstand.com. If you would like to order some chocolate covered strawberries for your sweetheart or a large tray for your co-workers, call (858)-444-6060 with your order in advance.