Oscar Party

Every year my friends, James and Kevin, hold a 10-course dinner on Oscars Night; remember when it used to be a 5-course dinner? The 83rd annual Academy Awards proved to be another exceptional year of fine dining. Pictured here is Pas de Deux Pate a Choux filled with white fluffy whipped cream above a layer of dark sinful chocolate. Yum!

Suprasensorial: Experiments in Light, Color and Space

Today, I explored this exhibition at MOCA at the Geffen Contemporary; great fun for families. The children were really enjoying the light exhibits and the pool that changed colors. This is the first museum exhibition to situate pioneering Latin American artists among the international canon of those working with light and space. Suprasensorial includes the work of five highly regarded and influential artists: Carlos Cruz-Diez (Venezuela), Lucio Fontana (Argentina), Julio Le Parc (Argentina), Hélio Oiticica (Brazil) and Neville D'Almeida (Brazil), and Jesús Rafael Soto (Venezuela). Exhibit closes February 27th. Seen here looking up into a crazy squiggle of neon light.

PROST

Today was the monthly PROST lunch and our destination was Lawry's Beverly Hills, an all time favorite and famous for their prime rib. Why I checked off salmon, I'll never know. Every around me savored the perfectly cooked prime rib served with mashed potatoes, gravy, creamed spinach and corn. In the end, it was a lovely midday networking opportunity. Seen here with Mickey Weill, ProTravel, Tim Dupree, Montage Hotel and Charlaine Moore, L'Ermitage Hotel.

Taschen's Oscar Special

It's Oscar season, everybody! It's that time of year when actors' performances are scrutinized, movies are the talk of the town, and everybody has a theory on who will win what. TASCHEN is right there with you in all the excitement. Located in Beverly Hills, Taschen is ready to get your party going with 50% off on a selection of film books. This promotion may also be found at http://www.taschen.com/.

Quick Energy Boost #5

Hit a Pressure Point: Acupressure techniques have long been used to cure migraines, stress, and tension. Although the ancient tradition isn't as popular as acupuncture, it's sans those pesky needles, and we like that. So, pinch the point between your thumb and forefinger for several minutes to give you a quick energy boost. Marie Claire Magazine

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hey Wendy, thanks for sending out your birthday wishes, I always love getting them..You are so sweet to do that every year. I always love reading about myself and how accurate the things they say about me are correct.
I hope your doing well, I need to stop by for a drink and see you soon.
Take care, Brett [Sr. Travel Consultant@ Warner Bros. (Burbank)]

Stephen Webster

The British jewelry maven, Stephen Webster, just opened a boutique on Rodeo Drive. Mixing shopping, drinks and art, Webster's high-end super sparkly bling boasts an art gallery and lounge on its top floor. For special occasions, the wet bar and Swarovski crystal chandelier is the perfect posh place to relax after a big splurge. The lavish space, not only showcases couture pieces, but has skull-engraved concrete floors, black crocodile jewelry cases and serpentine stairs. They have dedicated their window space at Two Rodeo to 'stylists' this year who are offered the space to do whatever they wish using Webster's jewelry. Currently, on view is Becks Welch's creation, hair by Pamela Neal and dress by Zac Posen. Located at 202 North Rodeo Drive.

A Contented Guest

Hi my Dear Wendy,
Mr. Marciano told me how happy he is with the rooms at the Luxe. I wanted to say thank you again and I will push for him to stay more often. Luv, Joann (Eres)

Elegy: Reflections on Angkor

Currently on exhibit at the Sundaram Tagore Gallery in Beverly Hills, Elegy offers an extraordinary glimpse of the majestic stone temples of Angkor. Hailed as the Ansel Adams of Angkor by The New York Times, John McDermott began photographing in Cambodia in 1995 when he came to witness a total eclipse of the sun. In this surreal light, the ruins take on a whole new aura. The gallery is located at 9606 Santa Monica Blvd. in Beverly Hills. http://www.sundaramtagore.com/

Happy President's Day

Where there is no law, but every man does what is right in his own eyes, there is the least of real liberty. -Henry M. Robert

A Happy Client

Hi Wendy,
It was great to meet you recently at The Luxe Beverly Hills. Thanks so much for showing Maddy and I around the property, it was great to finally get to see it! If there is anything I can do to assist with your efforts in the UK & Ireland, please do let me know. I head up the travel trade efforts for Beverly Hills CVB as well as California Tourism and work with a full team of individuals whose goal is to bring more business to your destination!
I hope to see you again soon. Best wishes, Beth [Travel Trade Director, Black Diamond]

Agent Provocateur

Agent Provocateur, the British intimates company that spearheaded the trend toward more edgy designs in lingerie, just launched its second Los Angeles Boutique. Located on Rodeo Drive next to Lanvin, Provocateur carries their entire collection, along with the brand's new super-high-end Soiree collections. Their longtime designer, Sarah Shotton, described the new boutique this way, "Rodeo has this Hollywood glamour thing, with mirrors, lots of black and pink. Crystal play suits, embellished corsets. We are going to make one-off items and couture items made for shows. What's really great about the underwear is that it makes you feel confident."

Edelweiss Chocolates

Edelweiss Chocolates has been in Beverly Hills for over 64 years and their client list includes princes, producers, and entertainers. You may recognize the name from the famous I Love Lucy, chocolate factory episode. Their chocolate is handmade and rated as some of the best in the world. Edelweiss is a family owned business and one of my favorite places in Los Angeles. Located only two blocks from Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel, it's worth a taste.

Travel Fact

Factors including pent-up travel demand, economic improvement and severe winter weather are combining to boost spring-break bookings this year, insiders say. "You're hearing a lot of [customers] say, 'We're done. It's time to get out of here,' " said Jeff Krudup of Travel Leaders. "After tightening their belts last year, they're ready to spend."

Quick Energy Boost #4

Eat a Piece of Chocolate: This one can present a challenge if willpower is something you are lacking in addition to energy. To help limit your intake to one piece, keep some individually wrapped chocolate squares on hand. Eating one will give you an endorphin buzz. Plus, the slight amount of caffeine chocolate contains — dark chocolate has more than milk chocolate — won't hurt, either. Marie Claire Magazine

Travel Fact

U.S. companies are forecast to spend 5 percent more on travel in 2011 than they did last year a sign of confidence in the economy that is giving a boost to airlines, hotels and rental-car companies. That's double the growth rate from 2010, which followed two years of decline. Last year's bump in business travel companies spent an estimated $228 billion helped U.S. airlines post their first collective profit in three years.

Solange

For that perfect Valentine's gift that will last a lifetime, Solange Azagury-Partridge gives her iconic sterling silver Hot Lips ring a contemporary update with a bright bubblegum-pink lacquered finish. Slip on this striking style to give every look a powerful pop of color. Plus, purchasing this ring helps generate money for the Global Fund to help eliminate AIDS in Africa. Great ring. Great cause. Cupid stricks again! Located steps from Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel, this beautiful new boutique will challenge your senses.

Rolls Royce of Chocolates

These "csokoládés" by DIANE KRÖN are specially prepared based on four generations of Krön Hungarian family recipes. Voted the "Rolls Royce of Chocolates" by Food Network. These amazing chocolates are made fresh daily in Beverly Hills in limited quantities and are available only from K Chocolatier in Beverly Hills. Little Santa Monica Blvd. between Camden and Bedford Drives.

Happy Valentine's Day

Red Velvet Truffles recipe

2 cups cream
2 cups crème fraiche
2 oz. milk chocolate
12 oz. semi-sweet chocolate
2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
Chopped red food coloring
4 cups semi-sweet chocolate
powdered sugar

· Bring cream and crème fraiche to a boil, while melting chocolates over a water bath. Once chocolate is smooth add the hot cream mixture and whisk continuously until chocolate thickens and becomes shiny. Add the coconut and mix until combined. Add a few drops at a time of red food coloring until desired color is reached. Pour into a half sheet tray lined with parchment. Wrap well and refrigerate overnight.

· Once truffle base is set, remove from pan by running a warm knife around the edges. Invert tray onto a parchment lined cutting board. Cut the truffles into whatever shape you desire. I recommend a small bite sized rectangle: Cut tray into 1 inch strips, then cut each strip into 1 inch squares, quarter each square to get 4 bite sized rectangles. Freeze cut truffles until ready to dip.

· Melt down the remaining 4 cups semi sweet chocolate over a water bath. Remove your truffles from the freezer. Dip each truffle in chocolate, carful to remove any excess chocolate and place on parchment. Once all the truffles are dipped return them to the freezer to set, about 30 minutes. Repeat this process of dipping each truffle; place each freshly dipped truffle into a bowl of powdered sugar. Once all the truffles are coated in powdered sugar place bowl in a cool place and allow to set, about 30 minutes. Sift the truffles knocking off any excess sugar. Serve. Truffles can be stored for up to one week in an air tight container in a cool dry place.

Pacific Design Center open to the public

Pacific Design Center welcomes all Design Enthusiasts this Saturday from 10AM to 4PM. Dozens of showrooms will be open as well as PDC Referral Designers on hand in the Green Lobby by the Information Desk for one-to-one consultations and with assistance in to-the-trade-only showrooms. Parking is $5 and the entrance is on Melrose Avenue. If you're new to the PDC, join them for a free tour starting at 11:00AM at the Information Desk. http://www.pacificdesigncenter.com/

Valentine's Day is all sewn up

Love is in the air and in the windows of Tiffany's & Co. Seen here is one of the diamond studded displays along Rodeo Drive. They have everlasting gifts for the ones you LOVE.

Girls Night Out in Cafe Rodeo

Another successful "Girls Night Out" at Luxe Hotel Rodeo Drive co-hosted by Cecilia Moreno, Publisher of Genlux Magazine. We invited all of our retail friends from the surrounding blocks and were thrilled to share an evening with 40 of the most fabulous ladies. Seen here with Minna from Rimowa, Adrianna from Miu Miu and the beautiful, Cecilia.

Dear Wendy: Fantastic night!! Thank you so much Wendy! Excited to do it again next year!!!Love, Cecilia

Seen in the Luxe lobby

Yesterday, Stephen Kamifuji, Creative Director of Genlux magazine, was quietly interviewing his next covergirl in Cafe Rodeo, Camilla Belle. Can't wait to see the next cover and check out the photo shoot.

Quick Energy Boost #3

Flirt: It's fun, it's harmless (or, at least, it should be), and it's effective. Nothing gets the heart pumping and the brain working like a little flirtin' action, just don't do anything stupid. Keep it to conversation — thinking on your feet, cracking jokes, and intellectual banter will energize you plenty. Marie Claire Magazine

33 Variations

Would highly recommend 33 Variations, now playing at LA's Ahmanson Theater in downtown. [Coincidentally, brother Peter Fonda and Cher were in the audience last night to support Jane Fonda reprising her Broadway role.] Playwright, Moises Kaufman, was drawn to the question of Beethoven's 33 variations like an archaeologist is drawn to artifacts left behind. The powerful play, nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Play, showed Jane Fonda at her absolute best. Fonda's character who is a distinguished musicologist travels to Bonn and is drawn into unraveling this obsession, including her own. Through March 6, 2011. http://www.centertheatergroup.org/

Page Turner

Valentine's Day is a time for us all to express our love for one another, and how better than by giving the gift of knowledge? Books are the perfect way to express your affection! Located on Beverly Drive in Beverly Hills or on-line at http://www.taschen.com. Order between now and February 14th, and they'll include the pocket title Valentines as a token of your admiration—free of charge (and full of love).

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Wendy Dear,
Thank you sooooo much for remembering me. This is a big one for me!! I was so happy to receive your card and good wishes, and reminded me to be more thoughtful to others. Hugs to you always, Linda [CONTRACT TRAVEL]

Lanvin's mannequins

French designer Alber Elbaz has debuted his brand-new Lanvin location on Rodeo Drive! It's the luxury brand's fourth store in the USA and nothing short of fabulous. 4,500 square feet of jewel toned ready-to-wear pieces, handbags, quirky accessories and more. I adore the oversize bow-ties for men; perfect for that over-the-top Valentine. Seen here are the mannequins with colorful wigs and balloons on the windows.

Cheese Great

Just in time for the Super Bowl, the cheesehead is "fly" - as in cool, awesome, attractive, amazing - and not just because the Packers are in the game. Some talented University of Wisconsin-Madison students and alums are helping to redefine the image of the foam headgear, which made its debut before most of them were born. Their hip-hop video, "Feelin' So Fly Like a Cheesehead" - a Packers-themed parody of last October's hit record "Like a G6" by the band Far East Movement - has gone viral on YouTube. As of Wednesday, the Cheesehead video had been viewed online more than 830,000 times - with the Super Bowl yet to happen.
http://www.facebook.com/l/3aedae-I6m_0IIsVFChGD3w5kxg;www.jsonline.com/business/115158204.html

Vive L'Amour Series

For the month of February, Cinespia has lined up a series of films from the most romantic place in the world: France! The Vive L'Amour series features seven swooning, smoldering Gallic film classics on archival 35mm prints all flown in from France with the help of the French Ministry. Last night was the opening party and screening of The Umbrellas of Cherbourg. Set to song, this wonderfully color-saturated film is a sublime love tragedy. Champagne and the Little Frenchie gourmet food truck topped the evening at the Silent Movie Theater, 611 N. Fairfax. http://www.cinespia.org/

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hi Wendy,
Happy New Year! Thank you so much for the birthday wishes. You are so kind and I love how you always send the “On this day” cards. Have a great day and a great weekend! Antonella [Vertu Assistant Store Director]

So oh la la

Celebrate L'Amour in Cafe Rodeo this Valentine's Day. Romantic four course tasting menu with Sparkling Rosé. $60 Per Person. Two Seatings: 6:30pm or 8:30pm Reservations recommended. http://www.dining@hotels.com

Happy New Year!

According to the Chinese Zodiac, the Year of 2011 is the Year of the Golden Rabbit, which begins on February 3, 2011 and ends on January 22, 2012. The Rabbit is the fourth sign of the zodiac, which consists of 12 animals signs. The Rabbit is a lucky sign. Rabbits are private individuals and a bit introverted. People born in the Year of the Rabbit are reasonably friendly individuals who enjoy the company of a group of good friends. They are good teachers, counselors and communicators, but also need their own space. Seen here are a couple of crystal rabbits from the window of David Orgell, located along Via Rodeo in Beverly Hills. Happy New Year!

Burrrr It's Cold

So glad I'm not in Wisconsin now. Seen here are my gorgeous nieces playing in the front yard.

Happy Groundhog Day!

It seems that Punxsutawney Phil played to a smaller-than-usual crowd this morning to make his 125th annual weather forecast. Including today's forecast, Phil has seen his shadow 98 times and hasn't seen it just 16 times since 1887. To the relief of the winter-weary, the world's most famous groundhog predicted an early spring.

Thought for the day

I hear and I forget. I see and I believe. I do and I understand. -Confucius