Fully cooked

Good news for 2012.  It looks like my broken bone is fully repaired.  Now all I have to do is get used to using it again.

Happy New Year!

May each and every one of us find peace and hope in the New Year!  Continued success and happiness to all.

Thought for the day

"Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow." - Albert Einstein
Happy New Year!

Hedi Slimane: California Song

This exhibit at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood is available for viewing through January 22, 2012.  It's the first West Coast solo museum exhibition of photographer Hedi Slimane's work. California Song spans his California period and traces his explorations of cycles of urban youth culture and artistic communities, through installations of photographic essays, exhibitions, and publications. “From Mick Jagger’s perspective, ‘It’s only fashion, but I like it.” Hedi Slimane, designer / photographer

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Wendy,  I just got a birthday card from you. Thank you very much!! Noriko [Trans Orbit USA]

Sales Opportunities

Today is the first big day of holiday discounting.  Saks Fifth Avenue on Wilshire Boulevard opened early and is offering 70% selected items through the end of the day!  Too tempting.

Holiday dining

I don't know about you but there has been a plethora of very naughty dining choices this season.  Perhaps the old question, 'Have you been naughty or nice?' refers to food.  I'm headed down Diet Lane in the New Year.  Seems even Santa Claus is overloaded with sweets this year.

Thought for the day

Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others. - Cicero

Sweet Snowmen

Teuscher on Brighton Way offers more than one hundred varieties of gourmet chocolates using original recipes from the Teuscher tradition of chocolate making.  These holiday friendly luxury chocolates are prepared each week and flown immediately to all of their stores throughout the world.  Just a short walk from Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel, snowmen, santas and angels are skillfully wrapped and made with the finest cocoa, marzipan, fruits and nuts. Indulge!  "the best all-around chocolatier" says New York Magazine

Been naughty or nice?

Even Santa Claus is texting this season!

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Dear Wendy,  Thank you so much as your timely and lovely card arrived today on my birthday.  It’s a tradition now to look forward to receiving your card. You make it very special and now you need to tell us when is your birthday. All the very best, Erika [President, First in Service Travel].

Travel Fact

Santa travels the world in only one night!

California Sees 10% spike in visitor spending. Thanks to a jump in tourism, visitor spending in the Golden State may hit a record this year, with continued growth in 2012. By the end of the year, domestic and international visitors to California will have spent $104.4 billion, a 10% increase over last year, according to a forecast released Monday by Tourism Economics, a consulting firm in Pennsylvania. The forecast was commissioned by Visit California, the state's tourism board. Travelers to California spent $95.1 billion in 2010, but the state this year is expected to exceed the $100-billion mark for the first time, thanks to continued growth in domestic travel and a surge in international travel to the state.

A Happy Client

Hi Wendy,  Sorry for the delay.  I love that quote by Carl Burns!!  It was nice meeting Trish, Farmers cannot compliment your property enough.  Have a great Christmas and New Year.  Regards,  Bennett [Key Account Manager] Carlson Wagonlit Travel

Happy Hanukkah!

We wish all of our friends a very Happy Hanukkah!

All Wrapped Up

Get the whole holiday season wrapped up by visiting our neighbor, The Paper Source, on Brighton Way.  They are open daily until 7.  Beverly Hills is the perfect city to stroll, dine and shop.  Enjoy a bit of holiday cheer along the way in Cafe Rodeo.  Our bartender will gladly make you our speciality drink, The Shopping Galore.  Vodka and cranberry sorbet.

Silver Bells and Golden Gossip

All scavenger hunts are $25 each per person and end in Café Rodeo.  Solve clues while marveling at Rodeo Drive’s spectacular Swarovski crystal decorations. This high-fashion hunt includes the store than banned MJ and an iconic movie bubble bath. All hunts end at Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel’s Cafe Rodeo when their creative and tasty Happy Hour Menu is available until 7:00 PM.  The next scheduled hunt is December 24th at 12 noon.  For tickets, visit the calendar at http://www.outoftheboxevents.com/

I don't want to be a spoiler, but watch out for No Number #1 by Joseph Kosuth.

Santa's Little Helper

As part of Sparkle 90210, Santa and Mrs. Claus appear every Friday night at the steps of Two Rodeo.  I got a chance to stop by and visit with Old Saint Nick tonight.  Little does he know that I already got everything I ever wanted for Christmas.  But then again, maybe he does.

Thought for the day

Life's truest happiness is found in friendships we make along the way. - Unknown

High Flying Style

Seen here with Fabi Oshaneh, Boutique Manager of Solange and Connie Gandia, Store Manager of Bally.

Archival images from Bally and Conde Nast were showcased last evening at an in-store celebration.  They struck that perfect balance: jet sets and wingtips!   Purchases made benefited The Art of Elysium.

A Happy Client

Thank you for your good cooperation throughout the year and happy holidays to you and your staff.  Best regards. Klaus Fimpel, Consul [Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany]

The Art of Sabrage

Seen here L to R, Bill Wiley, Nicolas Krafft and Ron Howard, who took a try with the saber.  Ron turned out to have had some experience in St. Moritz with the technique!  It's quite a story.

Legend has it, Napoleon Bonaparte's infamous cavalry, otherwise known as the Hussars, perfected the art of Sabrage, a technique used to behead a Champagne bottle with a saber or sword at the beginning of the 19th century.  Last evening connoisseur and CEO & President of Christofle North America, Nicolas Krafft, lead a demonstration of this technique for the Rodeo Drive Committee members.  He encouraged us to enjoy Champagne [more often with its surprisingly low calorie count] because it's perfect for all of life's occasions!

Thought for the day

Words are, of course, the most powerful drug used by mankind.  - Rudyard Kipling

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hi Wendy,
Thanks for the birthday card and birthday reading. It is scary because it describes the mind set I am in right now. I have been assessing my next move and how best to put it into action.  Wishing you all the best in 2012!  Thanks, Allison All the Best from ALTOUR

'Twas a wonderful night

Snow Machine demonstration

Last evening, the Science and technology Council of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences present the holiday classic, It's a Wonderful Life, from a newly struck 35mm print.  The inventors of the snow machine that made its debut with this film won a Scientific or Technical Award in 1948.  The synthetic snow that they used replaced bleached cornflakes which had been the previous method of simulating falling snow in motion pictures.  Director Frank Capra didn't want crucial snow scenes with his actor, James Stewart, to be underscored by the sound crunching corn flakes nor did he want Stewart to have to record the emotional dialogue for dubbing.  RKO Pictures, 1946, 130 minutes.

Playing with the band

Jazz Trio and me in front of Versace at Two Rodeo

As part of Sparkle 90210, snow falls at Two Rodeo on Thursdays and Fridays in December through December 16th.  Their three-story Christmas tree is a sight to see, as well as, live performances which take place on the Via from 5:00 to 8:00 PM.  Jazz it up and head over to Rodeo Drive!

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

HI Wendy,
Not sure how you knew it was my birthday, and really not sure how you knew to include the insert......It describes exactly who I am......lol!   Thank You   Pat  [Let's Travel]

Barbie buying baubles

Barbie Loves L.A.: America's Favorite Doll Sees the Sites by Greg LaVoi and Bob MacKie (July 2008)

Barbie was seen shopping on Rodeo Drive today!

A Contented Guest

Dear Wendy ... Please know how much we enjoyed being at the Luxe Rodeo again. We thank you for making certain that attention was given to all of our requests in room 301. We look forward to being back again in 2012 and will get in touch with you when it’s time to request a reservation.  Our very best to you,
Jill and Allen Stone

Diamond Doll

Barbie Rocks

Designed in the likeness of the original Barbie from 1959, Barbie Rocks is displaying a one-of-a-kind Diamond Doll in the Luxe Lobby.  Valued at $150,000, Barbie's iconic white and black bathing suit has been re-imagined with over 2,000 diamonds.  She even his tiny white diamond earrings and diamond charm bracelet [and of course a blond ponytail].

Travel Fact

Luxury hotels are pushing for more extended-stay business. Luxury hotels are trying to attract more extended-stay guests in a bid to fill rooms. Some are noting an increase in demand in this segment because of relocating households and international travelers from emerging countries needing a place to stay for long periods. Hotels offer large discounts on rates and tend to gain more through additional revenue from special guest services.

We were all about pink!

Barbie and Andy, a.k.a. Ken

Barbie at the entrace pointing guests to the rocks!

Enter the wonderful world of Barbie!  Yesterday afternoon in our luxurious Rodeo Drive Penthouse, mothers and daughters and girls of all ages were invited for festivities, entertainment and sweet treats.  Dressing up and holiday shopping were encouraged.  Hosted by Layna Silvagni Friedman,creator of Barbie Rock Jewelry collection and celebrity stylist, Anya Sarre, proved the Barbie really does rock!

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

I love that you always remember by B’Day!  :-)  Thank you so much
Lxxx,  Louise [ALTOUR]

Sparkle 90210

Beverly Hills High School madrigal singers strolling on Rodeo Drive last night.  They followed me down the Drive singing Jingle Bells!

Sparkle 90210 lights the way on Thursdays and Fridays in December!  From 5pm - 9pm on December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16, snow and sparkle effects will float and flutter at Two Rodeo Drive and Beverly Canon Gardens with carolers and performers each of the six evenings.

A Contented Guest

Hi Wendy,
Thanks for all your help, had a wonderful night and the Thanksgiving dinner downstairs was excellent. Happy holidays. Cheers, Jack

Gaga's Workshop

Gaga's workshop as seen in Barneys New York window display [Wilshire Blvd.]

From November 21st through January 2nd, you may visit Gaga's Workshop at Barneys New York in Beverly Hills.  Barneys donates 25% of sales from all items in Gaga's workshop to the Born This Way Foundation, dedicated to empowering youth and inspiring bravery.  It's a great way to support this important cause and do a little shopping too!

A Happy Client

Dear Wendy,  May I thank you very much for the time you spent with me yesterday.  The hotel is very comfortable and inviting, with its light colors in the guest rooms. Looking forward, placing some clients into your property, which is surrounded by luxury.  I did appreciate your invitation and enjoyed your interesting travel log from around the world a lot.  How is your wrist holding up today? With a scarf for support the healing process ought to be much faster.  Good reasons to use all of your scarves.  Again, many thanks and best wishes.  Enjoy the Thanksgiving Holiday.  Ena-Maria [Come Together, Corp.]

Travel Fact

2011 May Be A Record Year For LA Tourism. A surge in international visitors and huge crowds attending the NBA All-Star weekend and other downtown events have put Los Angeles on track to host a record number of visitors in 2011. With a 51% jump in convention room bookings this year and a 16% increase in overseas visitors, the bureau estimates that the city will host more than last year's 25.8 million overnight visitors and surpass the 2007 record of 25.9 million. Officials said it was too soon to say exactly what the record will be this year. Downtown Los Angeles hosted 20 conventions and conferences so far this year, up from 17 events last year. And most of those gatherings drew bigger crowds than previous years.

And to all a free night

There has never been a better time to book a vacation to Beverly Hills. In addition to the activities and decorations planned to capture the holiday spirit, And to All a Free Night gifts visitors a free night and holiday libations, with the purchase of two nights, at Luxe Hotel Rodeo Rrive between November 1, 2011 and January 8, 2012.  This includes two complimentary Shopping Galore cocktails upon arrival and continental breakfast for two. Rates start at $309 per night.  * Remember that Rodeo Drive is inviting the world to tweet holiday messages that will scroll along a SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS adorned installation, offering holiday cheer to all. See all holiday happenings at www.lovebeverlyhills.com/sparkle 

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Dear Wendy,
I have been traveling and just getting back to my normal routine. I want to thank you for my Birthday card and the October 09 sheet on If you were born on this day.  Thank you.  Best,  Jane Vermeulen [Travco]

Romeo et Juliett

Grigolo signing my CD, Arrivederci.

The Saturday matinee of Romeo et Juliette was the final performance conducted by Placido Domingo, the third opera this season.  Gounod's retelling of Shakespeare's famous tragedy fills the stage with the trappings of French romantic opera.  The performance opens with a festive 19th century ball given by the Capulet family, Gounod's own era. Soprano Nona Machaidze returned to the LA Opera opposite Romeo performed by Vittorio Grigolo making his company debut.  Grigolo's aria [beneath Juliette's balcony]: 'bravura'.
Two of the fairest stars in all the heaven,
Having some business, do entreat her eyes
To twinkle in their spheres till they return.  - Shakespeare

Black Friday

Swarms of shoppers were out today trying to get the best deals.  Rodeo Drive was bustling with tourists carrying gift bags and retailers were smiling.

Swarovski Elements

The unveiling of Rodeo Drive's 2011 Holiday Decor was a sparkling event on Monday.  Nearly 55,000 crystals are festooned on the Drive, 41,775 of them used for an interactive sculpture on the median.  Designed to look like DNA helix, the idea was to communicate and transmit information.  Jessica Alba, in glittery dress and shoes, along with the president of Swarovski illuminated the 200 block of Rodeo Drive.  As media flash bulbs popped the street lit up with the first tweeted message of the holiday season along the tubular-shaped sculpture.  You too can participate by texting the word "sparkle" followed by a greeting 877877.  The message will appear on the ticker-tape, in the language in which they are sent.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hey Wendy,
I got your card today. Thank you for remembering my birthday. That page inside describes me to a "t". lol
Prince Reynolds [Tripologist]

Thought for the day

"The things that we most of the time take for granted are always those that deserve our gratitude. Be thankful to that thing or person today and make every day of the year a personal Thanksgiving one."   - Kurt Avish

Happy Thanksgiving

Make a reservation now for Thanksgiving dinner in Cafe Rodeo!  Chef James Jung has prepared a delicious five course dinner, beginning at 12 noon with seatings until eight.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hi Wendy, I just received your very thoughtful birthday card. That is just so sweet. Thank you so much. You totally made my MONTH! Abby [Quikbook]

A Happy Client

Hi Wendy, sorry I missed you. thank you for taking care of this for us. The room is wonderful! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving if I dont see you. Thank you to your assistant as well. Everyone here is wonderful!
Tony [Neiman Marcus]

Embara

Embara welcoming our canoe.

In El Valle I found a man selling plantains with a matching sling!

We visited an Embara Village near the Gamboa Rainforest Resort; about two and a half hours from Gatun Lake by car and dugout canoe.  It was a wonderful experience; a mostly sunny day despite the rainy season.  An elder took us on a hike to show us plants used for medicine, women demonstrated their basket skills, and dozens of children played.  A day later I slipped and fell while bird watching and fractured my right wrist. Blame it on a toucan!

Casco Viejo

Originally built and settled in 1671 after the destruction of Panama Viejo, by Captain Henry Morgan, Casco Viejo Panama was constructed as a walled city on a peninsula off of Panama City to protect its settlers against another siege such as that suffered in Panama Viejo only 8 kilometers away. The number of original building structures which still stand today (in various stages of renovation and disrepair reflect 16th and 17th century Spanish & French Colonial. UNESCO designated Casco Viejo (Casco Antiguo) as a World Heritage Site in 2003.  What was 10 years ago a 'forgotten neighborhood' and rapidly deteriorating slum of Panama City is now in a state of revitalization.  On Sunday, we happened upon a folk dancing event in Plaza Bolivar.  When I approached the stage, these little hams jumped into the frame at the end of their performance.

Wildlife

Wildlife was the operative word in Panama.  We visited the Gamboa rain forest for three days and encountered creatures A to Z.  Seen here is a cappuchin monkey looking out to our boat with curiosity and perhaps thinking he would get a fruity treat.

Just returned from vacation

On vacation!

Looking forward to getting away. 

A Happy Client

Wendy!  Thanks so much for dinner!  You are so much fun! WE LOVE YOU WENDY!  xoxoxooxoxooxo

Have a great weekend!  Kim [Tzell Travel]

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hi Wendy- Thank you very much for the nice birthday card!  You are very thoughtful.   All the best.  Person [Garcia, Director of Sales - Western USA and Canada / Crystal Cruises- "Voted #1 Cruise Line in the World]

Best in Turkey

This evening Williams-Sonoma held a festive evening of product previews, delicious food tastings and culinary demos.  Walking around the store on Beverly Drive, I nibbled on everything from turkey with gravy and cranberries to pumpkin spice bread.  It felt like Thanksgiving in the store; plus every customer also enjoyed 10% off all in-store purchases between 4pm and 9pm. 

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hi Wendy,  Thank you for thinking off me on my birthday! Your card was spot on!!!! I wonder that every day!  Thanks for your warmth and thoughtfulness.  Sincerely, Bell [Vice President & C.O.O. / Mansour Travel Company]

Thought for the day

I do not want my house to be walled in on all sides and my windows to be stuffed. I want the cultures of all the lands to be blown about my house as freely as possible. But I refuse to be blown off my feet by any.
- Gandhi

Cinema Italian Style 2011

Supported by the Italian Ministry of Culture-Film Department, with the generous contribution of Alitalia, Baci Perugina, Bulgari, Dolce&Gabbana, Cinema Italian Style offers a five-day film series beginning Thursday, November 10th.  There is an array of Italy's best films, with an emphasis on the country's strong year for comedies with opening night.  Italy's official Oscar submission for Best Foreign-Language Film, Emanuele Crialese's topical drama TERRAFERMA about illegal immigration into Italy will be shown on opening night.  Look for a detailed schedule of films [shown at Egptian Theater in Hollywood and Aero Theater in Santa Monica]http://www.americancinematheque.com/ or http://www.cinemaitalianstyle.it/

Both ruthless and heroic

Seen here with LauryAnn, Boutique Manager /Anne Fontaine, and Pamela Reisman / Pamela Reisman Designs.

In association with Australians in Film and V Australia, I attended a screening of J. Edgar last evening. AiF Ambassador Naomi Watts was unable to be present but AiF member Damon Herriman joined the group at the conclusion.  Fascinating film about such a formidable and untouchable man!  During his lifetime, J. Edgar Hoover would rise to be the most powerful man in America.  As head of the Federal Bureau of Investigation for 48 years, through eight presidents and three wars, Hoover waged battle against threats both real and perceived, often bending the rules to keep his countrymen safe.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hello my dear friend, Wendy. I am always so happy when I receive something from you – for two reasons! 1. – that you are still at my favorite hotel in Beverly Hills and 2. That you are so thoughtful and always remember my birthday month!!! you are amazing and I am trying desperately to get back home. When I do, you will be the first to know since we would not stay anywhere else than the Luxe. How are you doing and what is new happening in the Hills?  Always your friend and admirer, Bev [Vice President, Investor Relations & Events / Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission]

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hi Wendy, I just received your birthday note in the mail… THANK YOU! That was so nice of you and a great touch to prospective business. :-)  Best, Aubrey [Manager, Events & Clients Services / LA SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT COMMISSION]

Saks Fifth Avenue and Donna Karan New York

Trying to look tall.

The Dream Foundation held an exclusive shopping soiree featuring the Donna Karan New York Fall and Resort 2011 Collections in honor of the foundation's 10th annual celebration of Dreams Gala.  I happily enjoyed informal modeling, refreshments and making new friends.  10% of all sales went to the very deserving Dream Foundation.

A Happy Client

Dear Wendy,  Thank you very much for your time Today. I had a good inspection and wonderful lunch!!  I will make an inspection report and send to all our branches with room pictures.  I really like your hotel. Best location in BH, nice rooms and meeting place, and NICE WORKING STAFFS!!  When I travel to Spain, I will stay one of your hotel too.  By the way, The Japanese TV program's name is TV Japan, Please keep it your mind for future Japanese clients.
Once again, Thank you very much.  Shige  [Kawahori, IACE Travel West Los Angeles Branch]

Morning after

Here we are in the month of November and heading toward the final legs of the holiday tour. I was at The Grove over the weekend and they were erecting their Christmas tree on the grassy knoll.  We haven't even celebrated Thanksgiving!   But don't worry, Beverly Hills will be even better this year.  We have a lot of plans up our sleeve.

Pumpkin Patch

Maclaren and Chloe loading wagon with best picks!

So many pumpkins.  So many choices.  My nieces and I ran about trying to pick just the right size and shape a few weeks ago.  It was already cold and leaves were beginning to fall in Wisconsin.  We carved mine immediately that night and saved the others for Halloween.  I'm sorry that I missed being with them for their favorite holiday.  But they still had my [sagging old-man] looking jack-o-lantern on the front stoop keeping a triangular eye out for trick-or-treaters.

Happy Halloween Beverly Hills Style!

400,000 Expected at West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval

'400,000 people' are what City officials are expecting to flood Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood tonight for what is labeled one of the world's larges annual Halloween celebrations.  The Carnaval officially begins at 6:00 PM and will be themed, "Become Your Other" encouraging attendees to let their alter egos come out and play.  Warning: Recommended for Adults!

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Good morning Wendy,
I wanted to let you know I received your birthday wishes. Thank you for thinking of me. I hope you are well.  Best, Robyn [Komen, Lifestyle Manager/Concierge for Preferred Group Inc.}

Last minute costume idea

1. Cut a big piece of foam board in an “Angry Bird” shape. Cut a hole where your head will go.
2. Cover with red construction paper. (Add white to the bottom if you like.)
3. Make a beak with yellow construction paper and V-shaped eyebrows with black.
4. Wear red from head to toe.
5. Walk around with an evil look in your eyes.
Extra credit: Make an evil pig with green paper and glue it on.

Listen to your dentist

My dentist sends me an annual Halloween card and it goes something like this:
Trick or Treat
Eat some sweets
Then be sure to brush your teeth.

Listen to your dentist

My dentist sends me an annual Halloween card and it goes something like this:
Trick or Treat
Eat some sweets

Then be sure to brush your teeth.

Happy Halloween

Q: What did the man say when he saw the long-lost ghoul?
A:  You're a psycho for sore eyes?

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hey Wendy,  I hope all is well. I received my Birthday card, so kind of you!  Thanks again, Debra [Legal Assistant]

Murder She Wrote

Just in time for Halloween, Stephen Webster Boutique on the Via Rodeo has a fantastic window creation.  The rotating collection of international artists curated by Webster is currently "Murder She Wrote".  In the window overlooking the grand Via Rodeo staircase the Stephen Webster store features a “stylist-of-the-month”, where stylists and costume designers alike are invited to create visual marvels.  Upstairs there is a permanent bar (the perfect accoutrement to any jewelry establishment) and let's not forget the jewels which are one of a kind.