It's Mother's Day weekend, and one of my favorite days ever!... so I decided to put together a list of a few of my favorite things. I became a mom in 2002, and it has been the most incredible journey. I am very grateful for every moment and every day I've had. I am in awe of many moms out there in the world, there is no "how-to" book on being a parent and I believe we are all doing the best we can. Whether you have children or pets, you're, a mom and you learn about strength, patience, and unconditional love. Hats off to all the moms out there for your braveness, compassion, generosity, and LOVE...
Capturing the Gardenia fragrance is tricky, I find these three brands have created a pretty gardenia scent. Trish McEvoy's Gardenia Musk is my favorite. Chanel Gardenia / Hermès Gardenia / Trish McEvoy Gardenia Musk
I personally love being hands-free when I'm running around during the day and especially when I'm traveling. Bandolier designed stylish cross body phone cases that leave you looking chic, smart and ready to go. I use mine all the time and I love it! Bandolier was designed by two moms here in the Los Angeles area.
Two years ago I went to a friends home who was showcasing Lacrème Beauté Skin Care Line. Founder Victoria Galbraith Wachtel was there with her beautiful products and I purchased quite a few. I use these religiously and I am truly happy with the results. Victoria is lovely and her products are the result of her passion for skin care. Face Oil / Cucumber Eye cream / Bee Venom / Glow / Rose Lip Balm / Superior Organic Gold Glow / Rose & Argan Organic Face Oil. Victoria is mom to her beautiful daughter Elizabeth.
There's not a day that goes by that I'm not wearing Emi-Jay in my hair or on my wrist. You'll find every color, style, pattern you could ever dream of. There is zero damage to your hair and they just look pretty, feminine and the bright colors will put a smile your face. My absolute go-to everyday. Emi-Jay is made right here in sunny L.A. Owned and operated by two moms here in L.A.
Maud's is an adorable, quaint beauty one-stop shop located here in West Hollywood. A gift certificate to Maud's is like a relaxing day poolside. Treat your mom or yourself to eyelash extensions, a manicure, and pedicure. I am enjoying my Extreme Eyelash extensions and my brow color from Mauds. Victoria O'Brien is a mom of three kiddos and founder of Mauds
I am a huge fan of Gucci's new floral pattern this year. I find it to be so relaxing just looking at the birds and the bees and the flowers and the trees...I don't think you can go wrong with a beautiful, stylish scarf.
Reyna Icaza is an incredible handbag designer from Nicaragua. I recently held a show for Reyna's purses here at my home and everyone that came left with a purse. I am lucky enough to own a few of Reyna's handbags, and I always get compliments whenever I'm out. Reyna lives in San Francisco and is a mom to adorable Matise...her dachshund.
Look at all the pretty places you can go here in sunny California. Shop Pretty Places is a candle Co. I have recently enjoyed. Located here in Southern California, Pretty Places have developed a delightful fragrance for favorite locations here in California. You'll love the presentation upon arrival, but most of all the aroma is divine. Truly a great gift idea.
Harmony's Pilates is located in West Hollywood, and it's no accident the word Harmony is the name of the business. Karen Schwalbe Jones put together a group of women instructors who are there to help you become healthy and strong. Harmony Studios is fun, relaxed and a fantastic workout. Why not treat yourself or someone you love to a pilates session at Harmony Piates. Karen is a mom of two cutie-pies.
One of my favorite salads in the city is the famous Cobb Salad at the Beverly Hills Hotel. Relax by the pool at the Cabana Cafe, and feel a bit of Hollywood Glamour.
If you're in need of a stylish and quality tote, check out Bolsala. Cindy Daly is a Los Angeles based jewelry and handbag designer. Known for her stunning semi-precious and one of a kind bracelets, she has now launched her handbag line. Cindy has captured the perfect size tote made with the finest leather and is manufactured in downtown L.A.- Great for your travels and everyday life when you're on the go. Cindy is a mom to her handsome son Quinn.
Tracy Telson Smolin is the talented designer of RECREO- Vintage jewelry, and accessories. Tracy uses vintage brooches, watch chains, rosaries, pendants, and lockets. Her work is exquisite and she doesn't miss a beat, every piece is delicate and quality. I own several necklaces and bracelets and new to my collection is my vintage Bee(autiful). You feel so pretty when you're wearing RECREO. Tracy is a designer here in L.A. and mom to three awesome kids. Ari, Clare and Elliot.
L'OCCITANE makes incredible hand and body lotions. The purse size hand lotions are my favorite. I love the way your hands feel, there is no greasy feeling after you apply. They make a beautiful gift box, with eight different fragrances to choose from. The shea butter is my favorite.
Thank goodness for Loreta at Bella Lora Spa. I began receiving facials and light treatments four years ago, and Loreta has transformed my skin. After many years under the sun and enjoying life on the water, I can always count on Loreta to get me back in shape after vacations at the beach. I go once a month and use the products she sells in her office. By combining serums from Loreta and Lecreme Beaute products, my skin has dramatically improved. She really understands skin and truly cares about her clients. Bella Lora offers a full-service facility for both men and women and features modern cosmetic facials and body treatments with several unique traditions from European culture. A gift certificate from Bella Lora is a splendid idea. Loreta works with her beautiful daughter Svajune.
I am always in favor for a good pair of sneakers, anything that will motivate working out and taking care of your mind body and spirit. Nike has always been my favorite brand for footwear, I find them to be comfortable and you have incredible colors to choose from. Just Do It... Happy shopping for your favorite moms.
My two boys...Luca and Buster. Derek and I always talk about how blessed we are, our household expresses our gratitude daily. I'm not sure where the time went, but I'm so happy to be on this journey.
I'd like to say "Thank you" to these three women. My grandmothers and my mom. We were all a team. I'll never forget what they did for me...the love they gave me, driving me anywhere and everywhere I needed to go, and for what they taught me. They were always there for me and made sure I stayed on track. I would not be who I am today if it weren't for these beautiful women. You know the saying - 'It takes a village' well that statement is true. Thank You, mom, for being so brave, and for all of the sacrifices you made and most of all... for believing in me. I Love You...
“To describe my mother would be to write about a hurricane in its perfect power. Or the climbing, falling colors of a rainbow.” —Maya Angelou
Have a blessed and Happy Mother's Day