And in the next gallery: John Millei

The Ace Gallery held the gift of another exhibit on the 2nd floor, that of, John Milei and Woman in a Chair. As outrageous as this sounds, Los Angeles painter, Millei, was so taken by a Picasso painting on view at the Centre Pompidou in Paris that he bought a postcard, pinned it on the wall of his studio and spent almost two years creating an incredible amount of studies. This lead to an impressive number of fully-realized canvases. I took a seat in the room where they are mounted and reveled in the sum of this full frontal attack of abstract paintings - all bound by the image of a woman in a chair. Also through August 28th. http://www.acegallery.net/

Herb Albert: Black Totems

This afternoon, I found myself standing in what seemed to be a forest of black totems, twisting and spiraling into the heights of the gallery today. Herb Alpert [yes - the trumpet player] has focused on this totemic language of sculpture for the past twenty years. The current show comprises mostly bronze pieces coated with a soft black patina and reaching up to 18 feet height. Inspired by the totems unique to the Pacific Northwest, Alpert's are more abstract and primal, yet suggest recognizable forms. Ace Gallery Beverly Hills is open Tuesday - Saturday. Black Totems can be seen through August 28th. http://www.acegallery.net/

Stylechic tip for the week

Splashy extras such as giant green gems or candy-colored stones always add brightness to any look. Layered Links let you pile on multi-strand necklaces or mix and match and earthy jewels allow you to wear organic stones adorned in gold. http://www.stylechicla.com

Membership Appreciation Night

This evening, the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce celebrated an elegant evening exclusively reserved for Chamber members at the Cobblestone Via at Two Rodeo. The sun was setting and it was a spectacular Beverly Hills midsummer night for enjoying food, drinks and live music. Seen here with Maria Vittoria D'Auria and Brian Nesbitt of Il Fornaio.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Wendy,
Thank you for the Birthday Greeting. I am on the Cusp of Cancer and Leo, a Fusion of Sorts.
Best, David Beedie [Travel Consultant, Ovation Travel Group]

Hollywood Bowl Picnic Basket

This summer, Jennifer Albert, Restaurant & Special Events Manager, suggests enjoying a picnic coordinated with the evening's entertainment at the Hollywood Bowl. With twenty-four hour notice, Cafe Rodeo will create a delicious picnic on the go that compliments your night under the stars. To place an order for a Hollywood Bowl picnic basket, please call 310-691-7655.

Travel Fact

According to the World Tourism Organization, the largest industry of the current world is not automobile and petroleum but tourism. As early as the beginning of 1990s, the economic aggregate of tourism accounted for more than 10% of the world's GDP, and its number of employed people amounted to over 8% of the total global employment. Tourism has superseded automobile and petroleum as the largest industry in the world. It has increasingly become an important symbol of modern economy and social development.

In Print

High Jewelry by Cartier: A sumptuous tribute to Cartier’s creations with spectacular new photographs of unique pieces, many of which have never been published before. Featuring over 300 color images, many of them full-page, this lavish, satin-bound volume presents Cartier’s most recent collections: modern pieces of high jewelry conceived in the spirit of Cartier’s traditional values of creativity, authenticity, and originality. It's a celebration of the inimitable Cartier style, defining elegance in jewelry for over a century and a half. Written by Sophie Marino, the book may be found at http://www.rizzoliusa.com/ Then again, if you want to see the most recent collections in person, Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel is located next door to the Beverly Hills boutique.

A Happy Client

Dear Wendy,
Thank you for your kind note and I am happy you liked the small goodies.
Also thank you for all the assistance you and your staff gave us during our recent stay in California. The members of our group were very pleased with the arrangements and the standard of service that you offered to us.
Please extend our gratitude to the hotel staff, especially to April Hernández for her dedication and the front office desk agents.
Thank you.
I look forward to working with you again in the very near future.
My best regards, Carlos María Gil [Carlos Gil & Gil Asociados Consultores, S.A]

Thought for the day

Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you've imagined. - Henry David Thoreau

Keith Urban performs

Luxe friends and clients joined us courtside at this year’s Farmers Classic Tennis Tournament, presented by Mercedes-Benz and benefiting the Grammy Foundation. Last night's event featured musical performances by Grammy winner Keith Urban and opening for him, the Avett Brothers. Incredible hors d oeuvres’ and refreshments were prepared especially for us in our private box by Chef Olivier Rousselle, On Sunset. Margit Haut [Luxe Sunset Blvd Hotel], Sandra Machuca [Luxe City Center Hotel], and I are grateful for their support.

Hollywood Museum

WHERE magazine rolled out the red carpet at the Hollywood Museum this week. Located in the heart of Hollywood near the Kodak Theater and the historic Walk of Fame, the museum is one of the unique experiences in Los Angeles with sets, movie props, vintage photos costumes and scripts from silent movies to Twilight: New Moon. The museum is housed in the historic Max Factor building, longtime headquarters of the cosmetics pioneer who made screen queens gorgeous. Seen here in the basement with Franenstein, just steps from Hannibal Lecter's jail cell from Silence of the Lambs. So creepy! http://www.thehollywoodmuseum.com/

Beverly Canon Park

Let's celebrate those moments and places where people make their own public spaces. This evening, there is a concert in the Beverly Hills park between Beverly and Canon Drives. Make your own public space and enjoy! Or grab a lunch on-the-go from Cafe Rodeo and exhale.

A Happy Client

Hello Wendy: It was such a pleasure meeting you this afternoon! Thank you for lunch and the grand tour. This invitation sounds wonderful. I’ll email Jeannie shortly. We’ll talk again in the next week or so. Have a fantastic rest of the day, Madeleine [LACMA, Marketing Manager]

Japan Tour Operator Luncheon

Today, BHCVB hosted Agent Kai’s monthly luncheon meeting in Beverly Hills at the famed Spago restaurant on Canon Drive. Agent Kai is a Los Angeles Japanese inbound tour operators association whose members are Japan-based travel companies. Members in attendance today included Nippon Travel Agency (NTA), Kintetsu, Jalpak International, JTB, TTA, Meitetsu, H.I.S. Tours, R & C Tours and ANA Sales America. Seen here with representatives of Beverly Hills including Stephanie Nakasone, Business Development Director for BHCVB and Chef Wolfgang Puck.

A Happy Client

Dearest Trish and Wendy,
I want to thank you most sincerely for your generosity in arranging for an FOC night for myself and boyfriend, Quentin Morgan, at Luxe Rodeo Drive on 12 June.
It was my first time at Luxe Rodeo Drive and although I knew it had a prime location, and I constantly tell my clients this, I can now attest for myself that it has the BEST location. Just fantastic.
I hadn’t been to LA for about 10 years and having the lovely one night stopover at Luxe Rodeo Drive on my way to Sydney has given me the appetite to return. It’s such a fabulous city. I love the vibrancy and there is so much to do and staying at Luxe Rodeo Drive is the perfect stepping stone to do it all!
We had a lovely room. Very nicely maintained and spotless. I cannot not fault it in any way at all. The staff were very friendly and helpful and the guests were nice too! I chatted to a couple of guests in the lift (from Colorado) and they told me they only ever stay at Luxe Rodeo Drive when they come to LA.
Travelforce staff are required to give a critique to our colleagues upon our return from holidays, and you can rest assured I gave Luxe Rodeo Drive a very positive review! We will continue to sell the property with great confidence.
Wendy, I very much look forward to seeing you when again when you are next in Sydney.

Thank you dear friends for your hospitality.

Kind regards, Rosemary.

Architectural jewelry

What's the best way to show off a fresh manicure? With a great ring? Or is it the other way around? In this case, I started with an impressive pink gold ring. Vhernier jewelry may be considered contemporary works of art; each hand-made revealing soft clean modern lines. This piece from their current collection is a perfect continuous band intertwined as if by magic. Visit Vhernier on Brighton Way and you'll see why they are masters of design and craftsmanship. http://www.vhernier.it

Legend of Zegna

This is the 100th anniversary of one of Italy's most emblematic companies, Ermenegildo Zegna. Today Ermenegildo's grandchildren run the design house, which started as an idea in 1889 when Angelo Zegna, a watchmaker, went into the wool trade with just four looms. You can find their elegantly crafted men's suits on Rodeo Drive, walking distance of Luxe Hotel Rodeo Drive.

Neverland Lost

Always curious about anything related to Neverland, this gal [Wendy] visited M+B Gallery today to view Neverland Lost, the premier exhibition of color photographs by Henry Leutwyler. In stark objectivity, Neverland Lost examines the Michael Jackson myth through portraits of personal items and pieces of his stage costumes—like the iconic sparkling glove—that were removed from Jackson's Neverland Ranch and intended for auction. Seen here is the demystified crystal glove. http://www.mbart.com In addition, there is a marvelous exhibit of Jones Beach, a grouping of black and white photographs by Joseph Szabo.

Girls Night Out at The Geffen Playhouse

Rumor has it that The Geffen Theater is thinking about extending Nora Ephron and Delia Ephron's Love, Loss and What I Wore, at the Audrey Skirball Kenis Theater, another two weeks. Let's hope so because it makes for a great 'girls night out'. This collection of thoughtful, touching and fashion foibles has attracted so many talented artists in a rotating cast of actors. Everyone of them brought a unique quality and depth to the multiple characters. http://www.lovelossonstage.com/

Travel Fact

Did you know that California is its own best customer when it comes to travel? 79% of trips and 86% of room nights are by California residents. And why not? With its diverse offerings and warm-hearted people, it's the perfect destination.

Hiking in the Armstrong Redwood State Park

We started our hike among the redwoods in a light mist and emerged in full sunlight as the morning mist had burned off. I felt intoxicated by the greenery around us.

The Colonel Armstrong Tree is more than 1,400 years old. During the 1880's, this area was set aside as a "natural park and botanical garden" by Colonel James Armstrong, an early-day lumber man who recognized the beauty and natural value of the forests he harvested. Today, the ancient redwood forest within the park is the largest remaining old-growth redwood forest in Sonoma County. It is a living reminder of the magnificent primeval redwood forest that covered much of this area before logging operations began during the 19th century.

Wine tasting

When you're on vacation in the nation's best wine region, one must try the best. The restaurant at The Farmhouse Inn is known for its exquisite farm to table cuisine. Seen here with Susie Dobson.

Sonoma tripping

Just returned from a brief but relaxing trip to Sonoma County, CA. The Farmhouse Inn was destination zero where we enjoyed all of what the area is famous for. Just like the grape varietals, we enjoyed mornings and warm afternoons.

Stylechic tip for the week

Fall's Favorite Accessories:
Pearls are unexpected when tied in chunks or roped with leather. Metallic clutches are glamours and versatile, and go with just about everything. Structure bags are this seasons accessory to lust after, especially when it's a crocodile satchel.
"I am attracted to people who make this effort in knowing what suits them - they are individual and stylish," says Vivienne Westwood.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hi Wendy,
Thanks so much for thinking of me on my birthday. I hope you are all well and having a great summer! Best, Stefanie [Yifat Oren & Associates, Senior Event Producer]

* Check out our new website: http://www.yifatoren.com/

Beatles Celebration

The Hollywood Bowl celebrated the music of the Beatles tonight, 45 years after the fab four originally played the Hollywood Bowl! Guest conductor Thomas Wilkins lead the Bowl Orchestra for an evening of favorites by the most popular rock band of all time. Joining him on the magical tour were Patti Austin, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Todd Rundgren and more guest performers. Welcome to the Hollywood Bowl season!! www.hollywoodbowl.org

Mummies, the Word!

We took a journey into the world of mummies and mummification today at the world premiere of "Mummies of the World" at the California Science Center at Exposition Park. The exhibition reveals how the scientific study of mummies can provide a window in the lives of ancient people from every region of the world. This is the largest traveling exhibition of mummies ever assembled with mummies dating as far back as 6,500 years ago; offering insights into past cultures and future possibilities to change the course of disease. The multi-media exhibit should not be missed. http://www.goto.californiasciencecenter.org/mow Seen here with my assistant, April Hernandez, by WHERE magazine invitation.

GenLux Summer Issue Launch

We celebrated under the stars last night as GenLux launched their summer issue at Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel. The Rodeo Drive penthouse was gathering central.
"Wendy,Thank you for including me on such a fun event. It was so nice spending time with you. I hope you enjoy your weekend." Seen here with Pamela Reisman and Shaw McPherson.

Poppy Fresh

This evening, Coach celebrated the first birthday of their Poppy Collection at their Rodeo Drive Boutique. The colorful Poppy line brought in some of Poppy's best friends and loyal customers. The collection is definitely bright and fun and totally affordable too! Poppy definitely has a look that will appeal to a younger crowd, but will also interest older Coach fans as most of the pieces are fun in a completely mature way. What more could we ask for? Seen here with Vicki Beador manager of MaxMara and DJ Gomez, manager of Jimmy Choo.

Toy Story 3

Finally saw Toy Story at The Grove over the weekend; the beloved cast of toys have confronted the inevitable forward march of time. As their owner prepares for college, Woody and the rest are left to face their obsolescence. Although I'm all grown up, I cried at the end. Fifteen years after the first release, Pixar has done it again. Who hasn't had a favorite toy growing up? Go see it but bring a tissue facing "infinity and beyond".

A Happy Client

Hi Wendy,
Very nice meeting you too!! I’ve visited the Luxe Hotel before and it is a great hotel in Los Angeles. I’ll make sure to pass along your information to our corporate office in Spain, since they do travel to Los Angeles a lot. Brenda [Alarwool.com]

A Happy Client

Thank you very much for a lovely lunch [in Cafe Rodeo]. I will have to treat you to lunch at Two Rodeo in the near future! Hope you enjoy the movie this evening and will see you tomorrow morning. Regards- Maureen Marketing Director [2Rodeo]

Travel Fact

According to AAA, the number of Americans traveling the July 4 weekend will rise 17.1 percent from 2009, with 34.9 million travelers taking a trip at least 50 miles away from home. We hope that everyone had a wonderful Fourth of July Weekend!

Happy 4th of July!

Q: How is a healthy person like the United States?

A: They both have good constitutions.

Happy Fourth of July!

Pictures of the Year

Pictures of the Year International opened June 26 and it's been an annoying ping on my iPhone as I've postponed my date to visit the space during the past 4 weeks. I don't know why I put it off so long. The Annenberg Space for Photography honors the work of winning photojournalists and visual editors from Pictures of the Year International (POYi), the oldest and most prestigious photojournalism competition in the world. This is the second year in a row that the POYi conference and exhibit will be housed at the Photography Space which can be viewed at 2000 Avenue of the Stars, Century City, through October 10th. Each photograph tells a riveting story. http://www.annenbergspaceforphotography.org/

Sales, Sales, Sales

If you were looking for a good sale on Spring/Summer, look no further than the shop next door. Rodeo Drive is sporting some terrific reductions as is Melrose Place and Robertson Blvd. I went from one neighborhood to another today browsing. Just enjoy the good selections and savings, too.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Wendy,
Thank you so much for remembering me!
Love the thoughtfulness! Happy Always, Pamela [Richmond] Travel Consultant at Cassis Travel Services

Travel Fact

Tourist attractions in California, also known as the Golden State, draw more than 13.4 million international visitors each year, according to the California Travel and Tourism Commission. In addition to foreign guests, California attractions host millions of out-of-state residents and locals who enjoy amusement rides, dining, outdoor activities and sightseeing.

King Kong - He's never been this real.

Opening today is the world's largest 3-D experience at Universal Studios. Last night at the VIP Opening Event, Joann Nishi [Eres Boutique], Janine Masaki [Etro] and I came face to face with King Kong on Skull Island. With the aid of 3-D glasses we screamed as Kong wrestled a Tyrannosaurus Rex just inches from our tram and rocked it back and forth as he jumped from one side to the other. New to the studio tour, the attraction combines the imagination of Peter Jackson with the latest technology to create a multi-sensory experience. "Thank YOU for including me in your special birthday celebration. And Wendy - your thoughtfulness and generosity goes beyond words....you always think of such fun things to do - thank you very much! Just can't stop talking about our King Kong and Mummy experience! Love you both so very much......with love and aloha - - - Janine and Joann"

Reaching new "Heights"

"In the Heights” won the 2008 Tony Award for best musical, a salute to the bodega-dotted Upper Manhattan neighborhood of Washington Heights. The soap opera struggles of Latino tenement dwellers creates an occasion for a salsa-swinging block party even when trouble hits in the form of a city black-out. Conceived by the composer and lyricist Lin-Manuel Miranda, who has a leading role in the cast, the show brings a multicultural sound and sensibility an evening of feel-good musical entertainment. Showing at The Pantages Theater on Hollywood Blvd through July 25th chasing dreams and finding home.