Out And About: the piece. store

the piece. store, a beautifully curated clothing and accessories store in Lafayette, Ca., has become a favorite  shop of mine.   Owner and buyer, Renee Sitzman opened the store in 2015 and has since been scouting and purchasing unique pieces that not only coordinate with each other, but update any East Bay wardrobe in need of revamping.  I first meet Renee when I introduced The Cass Clutch to her.  I'm thrilled to announce that she and the piece. store is now carry it.  Take a look at some of images of the space and Renee's very special collection of carefully selected fashion pieces. 

If you love fashion, but your schedule doesn't allow you to shop in San Francisco and beyond, you can now stay current and chic on a local basis.  the piece. store can and will meet ALL of your wardrobe needs.  Located at 3569 Mt Diablo Blvd. Lafayette, Ca.

Decorating Details: San Fransicso's Decorator Showcase House

For the past 38 years,  the San Francisco Decorators Showcase has provided a canvas for designers throughout California to strut their individual styles.  Each room in the house takes on a different look and feel, and all become equally impressive settings regardless of one's personal aesthetic.

 This year, painted ceilings, layered textiles, bold patterns and brass accents seemed to take center stage throughout the Villa de Martini.    Here are a few of my favorite decorating details:

Evars + Anderson Interior Design

Ann Lowengart Interiors

Ian Stallings

Artistic Designs For Living

Stephan Jones Interiors

Martin Kobus

The Wonder Exhibit At The Renwick Gallery

During our visit to DC last week, our friends suggested we see The Wonder Exhibit at the newly renovated Renwick Gallery, which we did.  Upon entering the building we were immediately struck in awe and amazement at what we saw.  Hearing so much about the exhibit from our local friends, we knew we had to experience it, but never expected it to be that impactful on our eyes and our emotions.  The installations are by nine leading contemporary artists who express themselves in a very big way using marbles, insects, index cards, strips of wood and LED lighting, among many other elements.  It's a museum experience like no other.  The exhibit runs through May 16th, so if you're in the area or planning a visit, check it out, you won't regret it.  In the mean time, preview here:

Many thanks to our many DC friends, who not only hosted us but also encouraged us see the all historical sites.  Washington is truly an impressive city.  Stay tuned for more images from our East coast visit.

Update On An "Out And About" of January 9, 2014

Two years ago, while shopping for clients at the SF Flower Mart, I stumbled upon Farmgirl Flowers.  The booth immediately caught my eye since it was abuzz with creative floral energy.   Botanical arrangements were being arranged with locally grown materials to be delivered throughout San Francisco via bicycle.  With my trusty camera in hand, I began capturing the moment and interviewing the owner of this unique operation, and, of course, I had to blog about it.  

Just this past Sunday, Farmgirl Flowers was featured in the New York Times Business section.  What an amazing accomplishment!  The founder and owner, Christine Stembel had a vision of supporting local farmers by selling seasonally inspired bouquets while keeping prices affordable.  Is is so rewarding to witness a fellow entrepreneur get the recognition and attention she so richly deserves.  Here's to ingenuity and perseverance!!!  

Gift Giving With A Purpose: Girls On Fire

This Thursday (the 10th at 7:30pm) at Brushstrokes Studios in Berkeley, a number of local artisans and vendors will be selling their wares to help raise money for Girls On Fire.  This organization empowers Kenyan women, many of whom have been victims of gender violence and dire poverty.  Through leadership camps, young women and girls are given the opportunity to travel, learn about nutrition and exercise, work as a team and, most importantly, understand and value their own self worth. I'm looking forward to this event and hope you can attend too.  It's the perfect opportunity to holiday shop with a worthwhile purpose.  

Here are few of the participating vendors:  Erica Tanov, Ginger Craftan, Ash Dry Goods, Good On Paper and Carrie Saxl.