THE CULVER HOTEL - THAT MAGICAL PLACE

September 12, 2017 janet gunn

Welcome to The Culver Hotel located in the heart of downtown Culver City. This historic hotel was built in 1924 by Harry Culver and continues today to steal the show. My friend and blogging partner Melissa Meyers and I have an affinity for anything old-school glamour and The Culver Hotel offers just that, and it's a perfect place to meet, catch up on life and enjoy a little cinematic history.

The Cowerdly Lion in the corner of this photo was actually quiet brave.

If you live in the Los Angeles area and you're searching for a new escape for a morning meeting, an elegant breakfast, lunch date, or just want a change of pace mixed with old Hollywood history, then don't miss out on this historical landmark.

When's the last time you got to catch up with a friend and feel like you've escaped for the day? We're fortunate to live in a city where dreams really do come true. Did you know that most of the cast of The Wizard of Oz lived here during the filming of the movie? Melissa and I both loved that iconic film and looking out the window imagining a day in the life of one of the most memorable films in history felt a bit surreal. Be sure to ask questions when you visit, this hotel is filled with historical myths and mystery.

Vintage and Glamour, that's what you'll experience here. You can't help but feel the energy and imagine what it must have been like when Joan Crawford, Douglas Fairbanks, Greta Garbo, Frank Sinatra, Ronald Reagan and more dined and smoozd behind these door, "if these walls could talk."

The Culver Hotel has been one of my favorite go-to's for a spark of creativity. They say it's haunted... who knows, maybe Glenda the Good Witch is waving her magic wand over us all as we enter this historical haven.

"You've always had the Power, my dear, you just had to learn it for yourself" Glenda, the good witch.

Maya Mallick who now owns this iconic property has reimagined The Culver Hotel into a glittering gem. Maya’s eye for design only adds to the charm of The Culver Hotel. Every item is personally picked and has a special place. Wherever your eye takes you, it feels like you’ve stepped into the past with a modern flair. The entryway is filled with rich colors and texture. This iconic landmark is becoming an alluring hot spot and Maya has managed to do so without losing the architectural integrity of the building.

The Grand Lobby also serves as a second restaurant and bar, with a patio garden nearby offering casual food and dining throughout the day. There are plenty of intimate places to sit back and enjoy the view along with great service and delicious food. In the evening you'll be enchanted with live jazz, and that Culver City cool. It's so much more than just a hotel.

Melissa's Lunch: KALE CAESAR SALAD - White anchovy, radicchio, parmesan, garlic croutons

My Lunch: COASTAL FARMS MIXED GREENS - Candied pecans, goat cheese, balsamic vinaigrette w/ Salmon

Congratulations are in order! The Culver Hotel turns 100 years old September 23rd. Join the Culver Hotel for the party of the century celebrating 100 years of Culver City and the 10th anniversary of the historic hotel's remarkable revitalization. Saturday, September 23rd, 2017, 8:00 PM

Don't miss The Velvet Lounge- located on the Mezzanine Level - Reminiscent of a 1920’s ‘Speakeasy’ with a twist of a Parisian boudoir. The Velvet Lounge is open Thursday through Saturday after 8 pm.

Also available for private parties and events.

Melissa and I would like to thank everyone at The Culver Hotel for a fun filled day of history, kindness and our beautiful meal. Located at 9400 Culver Blvd.

Just like they say in the movies "That's a wrap."

Melissa and I feel so fortunate to have The Culver Hotel in the city where we live. The staff is gracious and passionate about the history and they're happy to have you. There's a lot of exciting projects that are happening in Downtown Culver City and it just might be The Yellow Brick Road to an exciting time. Be sure to schedule your next breakfast, lunch or dinner meeting... just click your heels together three times...

Here's a fun story; Charlie Chaplin was even the owner for a while until legend has it, he lost the property in a poker game to John Wayne.

Fact; 1938 – The Wizard of Oz is filmed in Culver City. Much of the cast, including all 124 ‘little people’ also known as the ‘Munchkins’, stay at the Culver Hotel.
1939 - Gone With The Wind

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Here are the details for The Culver Hotel 100 years Celebration. We hope you can join us there!

TRAVELING LIGHT WITH CALPAK

June 12, 2017 janet gunn

Summer time, travel time! Are you in the market for a new carry-on? No matter where I'm traveling to... land or sea, my carry-on packing routine is nearly always the same, my favorite essentials, entertainment, comfort, and of course... the perfect carry-on luggage. CALPAK not only holds the necessities and then some, they make it so easy to travel InStyle.

Skirt & Top from Market in Brentwood   Pomandere — Skirt & Top from Market in Brentwood Pomandere

Take the Ambeur collection on your next getaway! The CALPAK Ambeur White Carry-On features 8 multi-directional spinner wheels that offer effortless mobility, a retractable handle, and is expandable for extra storage. The interior is fully lined and includes an easy to clean mesh zip pocket and an adjustable tie belt to hold clothing in place. Take a look at their website, and find the perfect color for you.

You'll have smooth sailing with CALPAK along with staying organized. It's easy to clean, just have your handy wipes with you & what I love the most, it's incredibly light-weight. I prefer the white for Summer, and for this price, you might want to choose another color!

Program your personal lock

Lightweight and durable hard-shell body
Large main compartment
Push button heavy duty handle system
Cushioned top and side handles
Mounted TSA-approved combination lock
Expandable for additional packing capacity
Eight 360-degree spinner wheels

Fully featured signature interior lining including:
- Zippered divider that creates two separate packing compartments
- Zippered accessory pocket
- Elastic accessory pockets
- Side pocket
- Elastic tie belt

Having the expandable packing capacity is a huge help along with packing cubes. CALPAK offers a fun cube with see-through mesh along with label id tags.

The F-1 Spacepak Sets are my personal way of keeping your luggage tidy, Packing tip; I also take photos of the clothing articles in each bag. The Spacepak Sets system maximizes luggage space by compressing about a week's worth of clothing in compact compartments that fit together perfectly in your suitcase or carry-on.

Add this stylish Sweaty Betty Backpack with your carry-on. Black with rosegold hardware.

I just feel happy when I wear Sweaty Betty, so why not carry it too?

The ultimate experience for perfect sound. Get lost in your music, your movies or just quiet the world around you.

I look at traveling as a journey of the unknown and opening up to new ideas. Traveling offers us just that, so many opportunities for personal and spiritual growth, you appreciate your life and others when you step into a different environment. It's a gift to have the chance to meet new people, understand their culture, and learn a little history. It's also a time to reflect and why not take a travel journal with you to document your journey and of course...express your Gratitude. Let yourself enjoy every moment, and don't forget to pack your good attitude and look up!

There's only one friend that's not so fond of my CALPAK luggage when it comes out...especially if I'm not packing his toys. Next road trip pal.

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Jes' Adventure at the Parker Palm Springs

May 15, 2017 janet gunn

A Note From Jes...

When it comes to decompressing, I am all about fun road trips. One of my favorite places to unwind and relax for a weekend is non other than Palm Springs! You can check out some of my posts about this desert oasis here, here, and here.

About two hours east of Los Angeles, this city offers pretty much everything that I 'a must' when vacationing. From great hotels with a buzzing pool scene, to delicious restaurants, and unique finds -- Palm Springs has it all going on!

I escape here as often as I can, and have made quite a few great memories. Some of my favorites involve a very special and beautiful Parker Palm Springs.

The former Gene Autry Estate is now a Jonathan Adler-designed property that boasts chic and comfy rooms, three pools, a spa that feels like a Nantucket country club, a Trina Turk boutique on the weekends, two delicious restaurants, and ample outdoor space complete with a fire pit, a giant chess board, bicycles, a lemonade stand, and games.

Upon entering the property, guests are greeted with an eclectic lobby filled with old-world rugs and modern, colorful geometric design. My favorite details include the white walls adorned with colorful lanterns, playful seating areas, and quirky art.

The rooms are worthy of a five-star snooze! Spacious, with a beautiful mid-century modern feel, and incredibly comfortable beds, the only reasons to get out are breakfast and the pools. Some of the luxe toiletries they offer include Hermes soaps and Penhaligon's shampoos and conditioners -- perfect for a night of pampering and well-deserved R&R. They also have villas perfect for group outings or a girls' weekend.

The grounds have several gardens, including a shaded croquet court, a playful oversized chessboard and a sunny spot with hammocks where you can bask in the sunlight. Grab a cold beverage and be sure to enjoy these amenities during your stay.

If brunch is what you crave, Norma’s is the place to enjoy a delectable fare. The staff is incredibly friendly, and your meal will begin with a smoothie of the day sample. Last time I visited, I ordered their chocolate French Toast, and it's TO DIE FOR! It's so rich and decadent, but worth every bite -- call it a 'cheat day must have,' if you please! Other delicious staples include their burgers, salads, and huevos rancheros.

The hotel has three pools, two outdoors, and one in the spa - which is a must-try. The outdoor pools have, about halfway in between them, a bar called Lemonade, with delicious treats and perfectly chilled drinks for those hot desert days. Only one of these pools is kid-friendly, so plan accordingly.

Once you set foot at the spa, you may not want to leave! They offer relaxing treatments such a hot stone massages, exfoliating body srubs, facials, waxing, and spray tanning. They even have special packages for baby moons, and other special occasions. If working out is what you desire, then their fitness center, group yoga classes, and outdoor tennis courts will do the trick.

Before you book your adventure -- here are a few 'good to know' tidbits:

-The weekends are incredibly busy, especially during the Summer months. If possible, go on a weekday, and you will most likely have the place to yourself!

-Ask for a room upgrade: Everyone at the property is very helpful, and they will try to accommodate your requests. If available they will honor an upgrade, so don't be afraid to ask (the worst they will say is 'no')

So excited for my next Palm Springs visit, because it's going to be another one for the books! Tell Janet and I, what are some of your favorite places to escape for the weekend?