Mardi Gras Party all weekend

Mardi Gras Party all weekend at the Farmers Market on Third Street, March 5, 6 and 8th. Extended over three days, the market features eight bands, numerous activities for children, periodic bead tossing and Mutti Gras pooch parade and costume contest. It's a great celebration for all ages. Fairfax Avenue at Third; adjacent to The Grove.

The Eye Bamako by Malick Sidebe

The 75-year-old Malick Sidibe's magnificent portraits of sweeping personal and cultural changes in post-colonial Africa have been celebrated around the world. Relatively unknown outside of Mali until the mid-1990s, Sidibé was the first photographer to receive the prestigious Venice Biennale's Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement in 2007. The exhibition includes his iconic black and white photographs that recorded the history of his countrymen as well as the lesser-known "chemises," or vintage proof sheet style works on construction paper. Positioned at the junction of Malian independence and a period of rapid modernization, the works exhibited bear witness to confidence of Africa's youth revolution. This very special gallery show runs from February 5 through April 9, 2011 at M+B Gallery, 612 N. Almont Drive in West Hollywood.

Thought for the day

True knowledge exists in knowing that you know nothing. - Socrates

Today was my lucky girl day

Today was my 'lucky girl day' because I was doing sales calls with Stephanie Nakasone, Beverly Hills CVB. The Japanese tour operators whom we met informed us that today, March 3rd, is Japanese Girl's Festival known as hina matsuri (hina doll festival) or momo no sekku (peach flower festival). Although Japanese Girl's Festival isn't a national holiday, it's an important tradition for wishing girls happiness and good health. We were informed that hina dolls are displayed in homes beginning sometime after Risshun (the first day of spring according to the lunar calendar). Seen here are porcelain dolls from Lladro, Beverly Hills.

A Contented Guest

Hi Wendy,
We enjoyed our stay last week. I just wanted to follow up with you as Nancy and I were both charged a late check out fee. I thought it we checked out by 2pm there would be no charge? Can you confirm? Thank You! Jennifer [Tracy Paul & Company, Inc.]

Kimchee and more

Yesterday I did met some very interesting Korean tour operators. We tried Korean cuisine at a local restaurant along Sixth Street. The fragrant boiling beef soup was surprisingly delicious. [So hot that I got a complimentary beef broth facial.] Seen here are our entrees and samples of vegetables that accompanied the soup.

Travel Fact

I get to go to lots of overseas places, like Canada. - Britney Spears

Quick Energy Boost #6

Step Outside: Sure, the last thing you probably want to do when you're feeling a little blah is bundle up and go walk around aimlessly in the freezing cold. Well, do it anyway. Just a few minutes outside in the fresh, crisp air — and away from your desk — will work wonders on your energy and mood. Obviously, this trick works well on a warm, sunny day, too. It's the gift that keeps on giving all year round. Marie Claire Magazine

A Happy Client

Dear Wendy, A pleasure to accept your invitation to Linked-in. Your hotel product is superb. Thank you again. Linda [Contract Travel]

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

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Wendy:
Thank you so much for birthday card. Truly touched that you thought of me. Happy 2011!
Micah [Personal Assistant to Andy Pesky, ]
Protravel International, Inc.

Quick Energy Boost #2

Listen to Music
It's no surprise why our brain's pleasure centers light up when we hear music. (The same brain structures that are active during euphoria-inducing stimuli like sex and drugs are clicked on with a good Glee mashup, too!) So, plug those headphones in and work along to your favorite jam. Marie Claire magazine

Happy Dining - Cafe Rodeo

Hi Wendy
Thank you for meeting me and my girls for lunch. It was great seeing you and having a site of the Luxe Hotel. Lunch was delicious, that Mac n cheese is to die for. Please tell me you have the recipe. Hugs n kisses, Amaris [Ultramar Travel NY]

DINE LA

From January 27 to 28 and January 30 to February 4, enjoy gastronomic gems from restaurants all over Los Angeles. Some 297 of the city’s top restaurants offer specially priced three-course tasting menus for both lunch and dinner. www.dineLA.com/RestaurantWeek

IACCW announces new board members

The Italian Cultural Institute hosted last evening's general meeting of the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce West. The new Board of Directors was introduced as well as planned activities for 2011. The economic health of both countries was highlighted and hope for future collaboration. Seen here with me are Agostino Magni, President of IACCW, and Lynda Simonetti, Beverly Hilton Hotel.

Quick Energy Boost #1

Wear Bright Colors
Ironically, your current state is partially determined by the mood you project to others and the reciprocating mood they project back to you. Wearing dark, somber colors get you the same reaction. But, bright colors and fun, interesting patterns give you an equally bright, peppy response. We know, we know … black is so flattering! Just save those duds for days you don't have an energy deficiency. Marie Claire magazine

Afternoon Tea

Solange Azagury-Partridge and W Magazine took Tea Time to a whole new level this afternoon in their cozy jewel studded boutique on Rodeo Drive. Surrounded by red velvet walls and cheerful women trying on a sensational array of baubles, we couldn't help but raise a toast to this very successful new designer. The pieces are all hand made and definitely unique. Thank you, Fabi Oshaneh, for the invitation.

A Happy Client

Hi Wendy and April,
Just wanted to say thank you for accommodating the Le Book guests at The Luxe.
Thank you, Rachel [Le Book]

Green Bay Packers

I'll be the first to admit that I'm a consistent but neglectful Green Bay Packer fan. Being born and raised in Wisconsin, it's natural that I would be cheering on the green and gold. Every grandparent, adult, child and dog is a raving fan in WI. So I donned my gear and enjoyed Sunday's game from beginning to end. The league's smallest city is going to its biggest game, in Dallas on February 6th, to reclaim the trophy named after Green Bay's most famous coach. I'll be wearing the outfit again with pride. Smile and say 'cheese'.

Genlux

Last night Genlux Magazine held the launch of the winter fashion issue at a new store in Century City hosted by the lovely Emmy Rossum, the songbird who wowed us in The Phantom of the Opera. Her exquisite cover story provides a glimpse of her humility and generous spirit, not to mention some spectacular gowns. We are thrilled for Dagmar who opened this [first of many] stores, In Plus Minus. Congratulations on a splendid party and we wish her much success!

California Tourism

The California Travel Industry Association conducted their board of directors meeting in West Hollywood this month; concluding with a very special reception last night at SkyBAR, Mondrian. The hosts included the Beverly Hills CVB, West Hollywood CVB and Santa Monica CVB. There were great networking opportunities with California's best travel, tourism and hospitality executives. Seen here with Stephanie Nakasone and Kimberli Partlow of our very own BHCVB.

Travel Fact

U.S. airport full-body scanners that show a generic figure rather than actual images of passenger body parts may be deployed to some airports for tests this year, the transportation security chief said today. Rapiscan, which makes scanners for U.S. airports, delivered software upgrades to the agency last year that display an avatar and a box alerting authorities to potential threats. The scanners would eliminate the need for the agency to keep an employee in a remote room viewing images of passengers. TSA officials say full deployment of the upgraded machines would "completely address the privacy, the modesty issue" that has sparked complaints about the current devices.

Le Book LA

This is the first year that Le Book has held an event in Los Angeles. Referred to as LA Connection, Milk Studios in Hollywood hosted dozens of agencies representing the best photographers, stylists, designers and directors. Seen here with my friend, Melissa Volpert of The Standard Hollywood.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Wendy,
Thank you very much for the cute birthday card! I will have to let you know when I am in the area to take you up on the complimentary drink! Much gratitude, Mary Dann [Mary Dann, Wedding and Party Coordinators]

Michael Kors as observed by LA Times writer, Booth Moore

On his spring collection: "It's all about the anti-stiletto and the anti-tight dress. I can't stand to see one more warrior" woman. It's shaping up to be quite a year for Kors, who is celebrating the 30th anniversary of his business. Although the recession has caused many designers to scale back, Kors is in expansion mode. By the end of 2011, he expects to have 200 of his own boutiques worldwide, including his first in Paris, on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honore, in addition to the 1,000 department and specialty stores that already sell his clothing and accessories. And his company is on track to hit $1 billion in sales. Kors's clothes have a similar no-nonsense appeal: the thickest of cashmere sweaters, great-fitting tropical wool trousers, double-face wool shift dresses that skim but don't cling. Even when his imagination takes him from the Upper East Side to Capri to Santa Fe, his designs never veer far off course. Visit his Beverly Hills Boutique on Rodeo Drive by parking at Luxe Hotel Rodeo Drive, walking through the lobby and turning left.

A Happy Client

Hi Wendy,
I’d just like to thank you for allowing us the opportunity to inspect your hotel last week. We all loved the property and were extremely grateful for your time and hospitality. No doubt you will see plenty of sales from all of the agents in the group in the not too distant future.
Regards, Toby Sconce [Sales Manager NSW, Creative Holidays]

Travel Fact

Arnold Schwarzenegger, David Beckham, Jay Leno, Vanessa Williams and other ‘local' celebrities star in the latest offering from the California Travel and Tourism Commission (CTTC) to draw tourists to the golden state. A television commercial launched on Saturday night in Australia amid the Roosters win over the Panthers saw the Californian celebrities promote California as a destination where "work is play and play is work".

Day after the Golden Globes

Well, it's the 'day after' and all is quiet and calm on Rodeo Drive. Celeb watchers are buzzing today for the Globes' style showdown. This year seemed to be keen on green and flower power. Noted were chic and unique red-carpet choices. And as the only hotel on Rodeo Drive, we get to see them all! Come join us for the upcoming award shows by booking the Winter Get-Away package, http://www.luxehotelrodeodrive.com

Seen in the Luxe lobby

For two days, film crews have been working tirelessly filming a car commercial in and around Beverly Hills. After hair and make-up Elisabetta Canalis emerged from the elevator looking ravashing in gown and cape. Our lobby got a big does of glam! Watch for her at the Golden Globe Awards on Sunday.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hi Wendy - Thank you for always thinking of me on my Birthday! Hope this year is starting off great! all the best - Angela [Travel, SONY Music Entertainment]

New Year's Resolutions

I had a delicious lunch with clients today in Cafe Rodeo and everyone around the table mentioned some food item that they were trying to give up. Whether it was carbs, fat, sugar or salt, the entrees were delivered without buns, bacon and salad dressing. But when it came to Chef James Jung's truffle fries, we sinned and liked it. Or maybe we'll wish we hadn't - tomorrow.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Dear Wendy,
How are you? Hope all is well with you. Thank you very much for birthday card. It was a surprise that you know my birthday. My husband took me to Crustacean in Beverly Hills for dinner. I had a wonderful day.
Regards, Miki [Supervisor Group Inquiry, Technical & Educational Tours, JTB International, Inc.]

Welcome 2011

Sooner than later, I had to change my wall calendar to 2011. I have three of them in my office, positioned strategically, just in case one isn't enough. There are so many calendars to choose from at our local book store and now they are 50% off! Hopefully I'll never miss a date in the coming year.

A Happy Client

Dearest Wendy,
Ted and I can't thank you enough for arranging a room for our brother, Joey. It's a very busy time and we know you've got lots to deal with. We are so grateful for your assistance. Happy New Year. All the best, Nicole [Sarandos]

Seen in the Luxe lobby

Stephen Kamifuji [Genlux Magazine] and Alexandra Daddario met today in Cafe Rodeo. Best known for her role as Annabeth in the Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightening Thief Alexandra was gracious to all of the fans who stopped by. Including Sean Kamifuji who came straight from school to say 'hello'.

Thought for the New Year

Each day going forward is an opportunity to
Fear less---hope more
Eat less---chew more
Whine less--- breathe more
Talk less---say more
Hate less---love more
And all good things will be yours !!

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hi Wendy- Wishing you a healthy and prosperous New Year and thank you for all your help these past years with rooms at Luxe Hotel and for always remembering my birthday. I love the horoscopes.... It's a bit eerie how spot on they are!!! Happy New Year!! Jacqueline

Rose Bowl in Los Angeles

For the first time in years, the Wisconsin Badgers finally make it to the Rose Bowl and I'm in WI! I was really looking forwarding to see the fighting red badgers donning t-shirts and hats walking around Beverly Hills. Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel was home to dozens of TCU fans, so I suppose I wouldn't have fit in anyway; perhaps regretting that I had taken that sweatshirt out of storage. Congrats to both teams for a game well played. Seen here at a local Milwaukee mall. [And for those of you who don't know what a badger looks like]

Happy New Year!

Enjoyed the long weekend in Wisconsin with my two gorgeous nieces. We made the most of the eve with sparkling grape juice, streamers, hats and masks [and new Christmas pajamas]. Lots of appetizer grazing of course, including those Wisconsin two buffet components that make it all worth while: cheese, sausage and more cheese. Seen here is Chloe in her messy glory.