Fiesta Time

This past weekend we celebrated Grace's Fourth Birthday ~ hard to believe how quickly time has flown by.  I know everyone says that about weddings and children but it really is the truth!  Being an event planner, I of course had to have a theme which was a classic fiesta.

The weather cooperated (unlike last year) and we hosted the party in our local park.  Jesus from Mi Taqueria provided an absolutely delicious taco bar (quesadillas for the kids), we had plenty of Mexican beer and of course a pinata!  The kids had a blast whacking away at the poor donkey until finally he succumbed to the inevitable and lots of toys spilled onto the ground.  I had given all of the children a small bag to scoop up the toys as quickly as they could...fabulous entertainment and favor!

I know we all can have the tendency to go overboard with our children's parties and I am no exception ~ this weekend reinforced that for kids it doesn't take much....good food, good friends and a pinata to hit with a stick!
xo
Amy

Gorgeous Campovida

I went to visit a new location last week that absolutely stunned me in its natural beauty and simplicity.  Campovida is located about 30 minutes north of Healdsburg but feels worlds away.  It is a fantastic location for a true destination wedding where you take over the entire property, sleeping many of your guests (the rest stay in town 5 minutes away).

This would be my ideal wedding ~ I would start the weekend off with a welcome BBQ or casual wood fired pizza party, enjoying delicious wines from the surrounding area, while guests slowly gather from the drive up 101.  The next day, I would get up early for a rejuvenating yoga class with those motivated guests before enjoying a gorgeous, outdoor ceremony in the serene learning arbor, followed by some yummy cocktails and hors d' oeuvres in the organic gardens.  I would then meander across the property to the super cool hop barn for dinner and dancing late into the evening.  The next day, I would have a a casual farewell brunch, complete with a bocce ball tournament before everyone heads back to reality...the weekend feeling like a dream.
xo
Amy

The Wurst

We had lunch yesterday at The Wurst up in Healdsburg ~ fantastic spot for a super casual bite and cold beer.  The owner, Charles Bell, was there to welcome guests and secure a sought after table outside and then usher you in to explain the menu.  Very nice guy who is obviously enthusiastic about this spot.

This is exactly the type of good, simple food environment that is welcome in Healdsburg.  The beer garden is a nice change after some serious wine tasting and the prices are beyond reasonable.  Definitely one to add to your must visit list...especially after a night of festivities.
xo
Amy

Vin Couture Lounge

I visited the most fabulous space this weekend ~ Vin Couture Lounge in Healdsburg.  Located upstairs in an art gallery right of the square, it is beautifully decorated and oozes hipness.  Perfect spot to meet friends for some wine flight tasting before dinner, after dinner or on a rainy afternoon.  It is a fantastic space for private parties...I cannot wait to share it with my clients and definitely one to add to the must visit next time in Healdsburg list.
xo
Amy

Fabulous La Tavola

Had a fantastic time last night at La Tavola's Spring Open House.  So many gorgeous linens...here are two of my favorites.  I love the rich texture in the picture above (may not come across that great in the photo) but it is divine and comes in some delicious colors...I think the citrine is my favorite.
The linen below has a beautiful freshness to it...black swirls on an off-white background with vibrant pops of turquoise, green, orange and yellow ~ so chic!

As always, La Tavola throws the most divine parties....
xo
Amy

Tara Firma Farms

We had an amazing Sunday last weekend at Tara Firma Farms which is a locally owned and operated CSA (Community Supported Agriculture).  We went with another couple and their daughter with the hopes of finding a farm to support throughout the year.  My thought was to get to know a local farm and the people that work there and care for the animals so when our produce, eggs, cheese and meat arrived every other week, we would all have a connection and appreciation from where it came.  


Well, I was not disappointed....the day was beautiful and we were encouraged to meander around on our own, taking a look at all of the beautiful animals that call this farm home and all of our questions were answered by the knowledgeable staff on hand.  I loved holding the chicks which were only days old while Grace was obsessed with the piglets...pigs are definitely her favorite animal.


After wandering about on the farm for a while we had a leisurely picnic with our friends, drank some nice rose wine and lunched on delicious cheese, bread, salumi and fruit....we couldn't have asked for a better Sunday and we are now looking forward to our first arrival from the farm!
xo
Amy

New Location

Talk about potential!  I just got back from a visit to an organic dairy farm located in the Two Rock Valley of Sonoma County.  Absolutely stunning with so many spots to create your dream wedding.  There is a vintage white victorian house, an old barn, an orchard and this amazing space for an open-sided tent.  I can see why Sundance just shot their recent catalog here...gorgeous with loads of potential!
xo
Amy