fête à fête

I was in search of an enzyme face peel that isn't irritating and eventually discovered Suki's Renewal Bio-Resurfacing Facial Peel. As one of the rare companies that use 100% natural ingredients, I was happy to see that this product has a potent efficacy. It contains cranberry glycolic acid, along with an advanced botanical enzyme complex of pumpkin, apple and papain. White willow bark is also added to exfoliate the skin.

After I had applied a thin layer, I felt a slight tingling on the cheeks but I didn't see any redness after I had washed it off. My entire face was noticeably brighter, which is amazing to see after just one application. It looked so radiant that I didn't need to add my usual night serums. You can also use this as an overnight spot treatment for blemishes.

If you do need a brightening product, they have a Targeted Bio-Brightening Face Serum. Arbutin, songyi mushroom and licorice root are the key ingredients that will lighten the skin. This is certainly a safer alternative than using chemical lighteners. This concentrated product is also suitable for folks with rosacea.

I also tried their Tinted Active Moisturizer SPF 15. I was worried that the shade was too dark for me (at least in the bottle) but the sheer texture blended right into the skin. This is not your typical tinted moisturizer. It contains lots of good-for-you nutrients (pure minerals, organic jojoba, organic rose extract) and it doesn't look chalky. Derived from white willow, the natural salicyclic acid will help reduce inflammation and prevent new breakouts.

www.sukiskincare.com

For editorial consideration, a product sample was provided for this review.

Tagged as: beauty, moisturizer, natural ingredients, organic, organic ingredients, peel, serum, skin care

Posted by Tami Yu at 10:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

I'm not the type to slap a lot of gunk on my skin, and I don't like thick concealers and foundations. Alas, I'm a total night owl so I've been sporting panda eyes for a long time. I also tried a few duds before and they made me a bit skeptical to consider another heavy product that would sit right on my skin.

Fortunately, the Mister Light Instant Light Corrective Pen from Givenchy changed my opinion of this makeup category. The product is so lightweight it literally disappeared into the skin, and for the first time in many years, I didn't have dark circles! It was quite a novelty.

The shade I tried, Mister Macaroon, worked perfectly. It worked so well by itself that I didn't need to use foundation at all. I also liked how it didn't create those nasty lines around the eyes. This concealer also has SPF 10 and it contains plant extracts (tangerine and almond) to revitalize the eye area.

And, if you have combination or oily skin, the Mister Mat Matifying Foundation Primer is your best bet to tame the shine. You can get by with a small amount of product and the smooth powder-gel texture feels very comfortable on the face. It also lasts for hours so you might not need a touch-up.

www.givenchybeauty.com

For editorial consideration, a product sample was provided for this review.

Tagged as: beauty, concealer, cosmetics, makeup, SPF

Posted by Tami Yu at 3:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

There was quite a hoopla a few months ago when Shu Uemura Art of Hair first launched their highly coveted Essence Absolue. The protective hair oil is touted as the moisturizing antidote to extremely dry hair (Jennifer Aniston's stylist uses it on her lovely locks).

Infused with the precious camellia oil, this is like the all-purpose 'liquid gold' for all types of hair issues. You can use it to tame frizzy hair, add intense shine, and protect it against UV rays. You can also use it as a pre-shampoo treatment (use 4 pumps) if you've got really damaged hair.

I used this as a leave-in conditioner after drying my hair. I only used one pump, and it was enough to give me that just-came-back-from-the-salon look. There's no oily residue at all when you're done applying it to your hair. Either each strand was that thirsty for moisture or my fingers were that dry to begin with.

The result? My hair has never been so shiny and soft. It's not cheap, but if you want that luxurious feel and maximum shine, it's worth the splurge.

This wildly popular product has been sold out for months and folks had to get on a waiting list. A little birdie told me that they will be having it in stock next week, so keep your eyes peeled for it!

www.shuuemuraartofhair-usa.com

For editorial consideration, a product sample was provided for this review.

Tagged as: beauty, conditioner, hair care, hair product, shopping

Posted by Tami Yu at 3:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBacks (0)

I first fell in love with Larkspur & Hawk's gorgeous fine jewelry last year. Inspired by antique jewelry designs from the 18th and 19th centuries, designer Emily Satloff successfully reintroduced the 18th century craft of using colored foils to produce a dramatic brilliance.

Just look at the Grace Ring. The intricate 14k white gold ring is lined with 22k yellow gold, and the blue topaz contains leaf foil to bring out the extra sparkle. From the same collection, the 18k rose gold Grace Pendant contains a lovely rose quartz with a fuchsia foil.

Grace Ring & Grace Pendant

The oxidized silver Olivia Day Night Earrings would go so well with the green amethyst on the Sophia Ring. The little ring of diamonds add such an opulent touch. These colors are so rich - they make you feel like royalty, that's for sure.

Olivia Day Night Earrings & Sophia Ring

If I had a gala to attend, these Jane Day Night Earrings (with blue topaz and magenta foil) would be my top choice. And how about these Celeste Earrings? I can't believe it's the turquoise foil that's making it look so radiant.

Jane Day Night Earrings & Celeste Earrings

Most of these pieces are available exclusively through Barneys New York. Some designs are available via www.larkspurandhawk.com.

Tagged as: earrings, fashion, jewelry, Luxury, necklace, rings, shopping

Posted by Tami Yu at 4:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBacks (0)

Looking at Vouelle's Spring/Summer 2010 shoe collection, it makes me feel as if summer is indeed here. These jetsetter heels are just what we need for a glamour-filled vacation along the Mediterranean.

The glitzy Penelope and Veruschka platform sandals are de rigueur for the luxe beach parties of Saint Tropez.

Penelope platform sandal in watermelon patent leather and Veruschka in sherbert suede.

The Jacqueline thong sandal is absolutely charming. It's so dainty and feminine - totally something I've come to expect from Vouelle. Working with Eric Charles Donatien of Maison Lemarié, the delicate organza fan is carefully handmade by the world's reigning plumassier. I wish I can see this in person, but from the image you can sense the detailed craftsmanship on this design.

Jacqueline silk satin thong (in watermelon shade) with organza fan and Swarovski crystals.

For the first time ever, they've launched a playful gummy flat sandal. This is great for the chic minimalist who wants a dash of color.

Ali gummy sandal

Even the classic pumps are given a fun makeover. Check out the pink transparent plastic panels on the Gina satin pump. The white and salmon edging on the Bisset pump makes it stylish yet appropriate for the office.

Gina satin and plastic pump in watermelon and Bisset pump.

Luckily for us, select styles from Vouelle are now being sold at three locations in the U.S. Find out the store locations at www.vouelle.com.

Tagged as: fashion, fashion designer, footwear, Luxury, shoes, shopping

Posted by Tami Yu at 6:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Usually, when I think about anything with coral shades, it reminds me of the bright orange stuff from decades past. Luckily for us, Bobbi Brown has some refreshing and modern hues from their Cabana Corals makeup collection.

The line contains a whole range of corals (pink, nude, and true coral) to fit each skin tone. I myself have never owned any makeup with coral, but I'm pleasantly surprised by how well some of these products worked out.

Bobbi Brown Cabana Corals Collection

I've never tried their famous Shimmer Brick until now, but the Pink Quartz compact gave a nice, soft glow, with just a hint of warming coral. If you haven't been sleeping enough hours, this will give your face a lively visage.

There are five new shades for the metallic and regular lipsticks. I tried the metallic Coral Reef (medium pink coral), which lent a very light and neutral lip color. The Cabo Coral (warm pink coral) lipstick was a teensy bit too bright for my tastes, so I dabbed on the new Coral Sand (golden peach) Shimmer Lip Gloss to soften it up. The result looked so pretty I felt that perhaps springtime is really coming soon...

Check out the entire collection at www.bobbibrowncosmetics.com.

For editorial consideration, a product sample was provided for this review.

Tagged as: beauty, beauty product, blush, cosmetics, lip gloss, lipstick, makeup, shopping, spring

Posted by Tami Yu at 2:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (4) | TrackBacks (0)

NYC-based shoe designer Coye Nokes has a lot of sophisticated designs for her Spring/Summer 2010 collection. The theme of these lovelies is inspired by an ‘urban riviera’ – the glamour of the French Riviera combined with a metropolitan edge.

Aren't the Grace wedges fun? Paired with a thin, flowy skirt and a floppy hat, the turquoise ones would be so fun to wear on a hot summer day.

Grace Wedge in patent leather and ecru metallic

Architectural lines are brought to life by a Mediterranean color palette. I love the clean and polished look on the Joan Sandal. I especially like the sexy tapered heel - it makes the overall look more feminine. This sandal also comes in a black embossed python and a cognac calf leather.

Joan Sandal in sabbia embossed python

The Grace flats look pretty comfy; these also come in coral, gold embossed python and black patent. Now, if you want height, these Grace wedge sandals should do the trick. The curvy straps on this smokin' wedge makes it on my list for Spring.

Grace Flats & Grace Wedge Sandals

To view more styles, go to www.coyenokes.com.

Tagged as: Accessories, fashion, fashion designer, leather, Luxury, shoes, shopping

Posted by Tami Yu at 3:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Radley fans, take note. The quirky London handbag and accessories designer has expanded across the pond! They just launched their new US website and there's lots of cute purses, totes, and wallets to add to your spring fashion wish list. Their 2010 Spring/Summer collection is also now available online.

Radley London's Alcester Medium Multi-Way Bag

The Alcester multi-way leather handbag has a pretty hand-cut corsage. The sculpted top and contrast stitching add a whimsical touch and there's tons of pockets for organizing all your stuff. A detachable strap is included if you decide to use it as a shoulder bag.

Marsden A4 Tote

As an everyday bag, the Marsden A4 Tote is perfect for work and running errands. This is a classic bag that looks polished yet the chunky woven tab adds a bit of fun to the design.

Ormskirk Medium Hobo Grab Bag

I do love this red shade on the Ormskirk bag. This hobo style is a new design introduction for the Spring line. The daisy flower interior fabric lining is so feminine and cute!

Pocket Bag (medium size)

And let's not forget their signature Pocket Bag. This best-selling model is both practical and stylish at the same time (great for thin books and notepads). The flat design is really spacious inside and the cross-body strap has a zipped pocket for cell phones. You can wear this inside or outside your jacket and it's great for travel.

For more styles, check out www.radleylondon.com.

For editorial consideration, a product sample was provided for this review.

Tagged as: Accessories, fashion, Handbags, purse, shopping

Posted by Tami Yu at 1:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

Crunched for time? You'd be surprised at how many neat little Valentine's Day gifts your nearby Whole Foods Market has. They have lots of options for every budget. Of course, if you need something luxe, there's always caviar and champagne too.

On the low end, the Sweet Somethings gift package ($20) includes 10 tulips, EO French Lavender Bath Salts, heart-shaped Whoopie Pie with Raspberry Filling, and Numi Organic White Rose Tea. If you order this online you save about $2. If you want a more traditional gift, they also have ethically-grown Whole Trade Roses for $19.99 a dozen.

If you're a major klutz in the kitchen, there's a Valentine's Day Dinner for Two that you can pick up for $39.99. It includes a Shrimp Bisque, Spinach and Beet Salad, Root Vegetable Gratin and a Cherry Balsamic Glazed Game Hen. Not too shabby for forty bucks.

And...the sweets. Coracao Confections has some healthy raw chocolates made from fair trade and organic Ecuadorian cacao. They're packed with organic superfoods and sweetened with agave nectar and coconut sugar. Best of all, these treats are wheat, gluten, soy and dairy free.

Just head over to www.wholefoodsmarket.com/valentines to place your order by Friday, February 12 for in-store pickup on the 14th. It's that easy. You don't need to phone them, nor do you need to visit the store until the actual holiday. (Note: Promotions valid for Northern CA & Reno stores only; check your nearby store to make sure.)

For editorial consideration, a product sample was provided for this review.

Tagged as: chocolate, dessert, food, gift, Northern California, San Francisco, shopping, valentine

Posted by Tami Yu at 4:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

Just for the naughty kids, Jimmyjane has three exclusive gift sets for Valentine's Day. These gift bundles are quite the deal, considering the mega savings you'll get (at least 50% off retail prices!).

The PLAY set ($44) consists of the WINK Silk and Suede Blindfold and the EMBER Massage Oil Candle (scented with TRUFFLE + GARDENIA). Originally valued at $93, you get to save 53%. And, the silk sash from the blindfold can double as wrist restraints - fun, fun fun! If you're less adventurous, you can use it as a sleep mask. Hey, whatever floats your boat...

If you can afford to splurge a bit, the INDULGE set is only $184 (61% off - originally $470). This deluxe pleasure set has a LITTLE GOLD silent (and waterproof) 24k Gold Vibrator, an ICONIC vibrating ring, and two EMBER Massage Oil Candles (TRUFFLE + GARDENIA and GINGER + DATE).

Don't forget to check out their website for V-day goodies under $35, or the new FORM 2 vibrator.

www.jimmyjane.com

Tagged as: gift, holiday, Lifestyle, Luxury, San Francisco, shopping, valentine

Posted by Tami Yu at 2:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

It's truly a blessing to be living so close to one of the world's best wine regions. There are so many great wineries and things to check out. When you're all tired from the Bacchanalial pleasures, you can relax and recharge your energy at a nearby luxury resort.

Of all the resorts I'd pick, Meadowood in St. Helena would be a superb choice. Located near the north end of the Silverado Trail, the elegant estate is tucked away in a secluded valley that stretches across 250 acres of trees, lush hills, lawns, and hiking trails.

The estate seems like a paradise that's far away from reality. Your mind will stop obsessing about the fifty emails that you need to deal with, and the concept of relaxation is at the forefront of your mind. If you're a nature lover, you'd be thrilled to see so many different types of trees on the property. You can spot tons of Redwoods, Oaks, Big Leaf Maples, Douglas Firs, California Buckeyes, Madrones and Bay Laurels.

There are 85 cottages, suites and lodges within the resort. All of them are tucked into the hillside, so you get the utmost privacy. We stayed in one of the spacious Treeline Cottages - the wood-burning fireplace was so warm that we didn't need to turn up the heat. There are two TVs so you can literally laze about all day if you really wanted to. Since it was raining, that's what we did!

Naturally, the property has a two-starred Michelin restaurant. Under the leadership of Chef Christopher Kostow, The Restaurant at Meadowood is a culinary destination for those seeking a world-class dining option.

The Molten Parmesan Tortellini was beyond delicious. We both picked the extremely tender Giant Humboldt Squid entree; the cheese tasting was also one of the best we've seen. For dessert, we were wowed by the rich White Chocolate and Foie Gras Ganache and the interesting combination of Beets, Rose, and Cocoa. As if that wasn't enough, soft snickerdoodle financiers were set upon the table as a finishing touch.

Meadowood is not just all about relaxing - there's a big emphasis on health and wellness. Tennis courts, an executive golf course, croquet lawns, and swimming pools all surround the property. If you need pointers, a resident professional for tennis, croquet, and golf can help you improve your game. If that's not enough, they even have aerobics, pilates, and yoga classes, along with an on-site personal trainer.

I also got to visit their spa and tried their signature Meadowood Harvest Wrap. A detoxing dry brushing started the treatment, followed by a tea tree exfoliation. A hydrating masque is then applied and you get a sleep-inducing scalp massage as you're wrapped in warm towels. To finish the buffing, a Jurlique anti-oxidant lotion is smoothed over the entire body. With this body wrap, you'll end up with soft-as-butter skin.

There are lots of events going on at Meadowood. From their upcoming Valentine's Day dinner to their summer charity wine auction, this Napa Valley destination is not to be missed. If I had my way, I'd love to get hitched at this gorgeous locale.

www.meadowood.com

For editorial consideration, a press visit was provided for this review.

Tagged as: food, Lifestyle, Luxury, restaurant, spa, travel, wine country

Posted by Tami Yu at 9:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

Is your favorite restaurant fully booked for V-day? If you're feeling a tad bit nervous about your dinner plans, graffEats Guerilla Dining has a cute Valentine's "Dinner and a Flick" dinner that will save the evening (and your hide). The five-course dinner is paired with a unique viewing of five Valentine-related short films. For more romantic stimulation, Berlin's Show Me Love Lab will also be showing an art installation about the science of l'amour.

Chef Blair Warsham will be whipping up your dinner. His guest chef has even gone through the trouble of importing special flour and water to make the Japanese noodle dish. Live music will be provided, and you can also get the optional wine/sake/beer pairing. As always, a portion of proceeds will go towards charity.

Here's the menu:

Raspberry Braised Beet Panzanella & Roasted Shallot, Goat Cheese Carpaccio

Foie Gras Parfait With Granny Smith Apple Confit, Black Truffle, Hazelnut

House Made Organic Japanese Noodles With Miso, Sesame, Blackened Onion

Eggplant “Charred”
All Natural Flat Iron Steak With Braised Mustard, Confit Potatoes, black garlic

Imperial Stout Ice Cream With Dark Chocolate & Chestnut Tart

For tickets and reservations, head over to www.graffeats.com

Tagged as: dinner, drink, food, gourmet, holiday, San Francisco, special events, valentine

Posted by Tami Yu at 5:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

Tired of giving flowers and cards for Valentine's Day? If you're looking for a holistic gift for your honey, SenSpa's Wellness Apothecary is now offering a new line of handmade body scrubs for all skin types. Using the finest organic essential oils, these scrubs have the perfect amount of exfoliation and hydration for your skin type. All three lovely recipes are custom blended by Venetia, SenSpa’s Master Aromatherapist.

Made with Thai Ginger Lemongrass, the Sen Earth scrub is a warming treatment that will improve concentration, relieve jet lag, and soothe lower back pain. This one is great for sensitive skin because it contains soft bamboo as the exfoliant. Bamboo also has enough natural moisture so this one doesn't have a carrier oil. This one smells so uplifting - great for reviving your spirit.

Sen Fire provides a healing effect for the body. Fragonia and Pink Peppercorn oils help promote emotional healing, improve circulation, and relieve achy muscles. This one is quite therapeutic and is great for those who need additional moisturizing, as it's in a base of coarse sugar, sunflower oil and jojoba oil.

The calming Sen Moon contains Clary Sage, Geranium, and Sage to reduce daily stress. This blend has sea salt, jojoba oil and grapeseed oil for its formula base. I haven't tried this one but it sounds relaxing.

If you live in San Francisco, you can visit SenSpa to watch Venetia in action. You can also custom order a perfume, cologne or essential oil for your optimum wellness, so make an appointment with Venetia today!

www.senspa.com

For editorial consideration, a product sample was provided for this review.

Tagged as: body care, body wash, essential oil, gifts, health, holiday, holistic, organic, San Francisco, shopping, skin care

Posted by Tami Yu at 10:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

The Love/Hate Relationship With Fashion

Edited by Debutante Clothing

I'm always complaining about going out to fashion events by myself - I just don't have many friends that are into fashion. While some people think fashion is frivolous and contributes nothing to the world, others are curating museum exhibits featuring 20th century clothing. This week's links made me think about the love/hate camps in fashion. Starting with Grit and Glamour's post on bloggers getting backlash from fashion insiders, Houndstooth + Tortoiseshell's refreshingly funny admission of Tavi envy, or Fab Lab's hate of people who hate. But there is some love in sight - British Style Bloggers reminds us to look in the mirror and love ourselves. Enjoy!

Note from Editor : Please be sure to check out the IFB Conference at NYFW : Evolving Influence

A Dress & A Bike - Why breaking the love of one particular brand has been good for my personal style
British Style Bloggers- Some gems to remember
Debutante Clothing - Going to a Vintage Show? Insider Tips & Interview
dirty hems - lacroix by lacroix
Fab Blab - Why I Hate People Who Ostracize Fashion
fête à fête - Review of Guerlain's Spring 2010 Cherry Blossom makeup & the new Rouge G Le Brillant lipstick
Friend in Fashion - Luxe Vintage
grit and glamour - Fashion's Knickers are in a Twist
hello beauty! - Benefit Stay Don't Stray: An innovative new primer to lock down shadows AND concealer
Houndstooth + Tortoiseshell - Young fashion blogger incites curiosity, envy
Independent Fashion Bloggers - Get Out There : How To Cover Events Without Feeling Like an Idiot
Lillys Roses - How to DIY your own Chanel Jade nail polish
Mariel's Castle - Haute Couture 101
Model Max - MAT GORDON: The ModelWatch Interview
Oranges and Apples - Top websites for ethical shopping
Retro Chick - Ethical Design Spotlight - Junky Styling
Styletastic - To fur or not to fur?
Stylist Diva - Are Fashion Bloggers taking over the world?
Tatiana Supports the Arts - Etsy Window Shopping: Queen Elizabeth I Roundup
the brooklyn posh blog - He loves me, he loves me not, he loves me, red hot
THE COVETED - Pretty Dresses at the VioletvilleVintage.com launch
White Rabbit - The inspiration behind my Merlixa Designs millinery collection
[the3st] – Interview with Amy Smilovic of Tibi

Tagged as: beauty, fashion, shopping, Style

Posted by Tami Yu at 11:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Givenchy Le Makeup line loves to reinvent itself each season. For example, their Spring 2010 launch has a new Le Prisme Mono eyeshadow. Each monochrome quad has four different textures (matte, iridescent, glittering, pearlescent) for each color, so you can achieve an endless array of looks.

The Dressy Indigo looks so rockin' but it's too bold for my tastes. I preferred Hip Grey 03, New Look Mauve 02, and Casual Khaki 12. These cuties are so small and thin you can easily slip a couple into your purse without bulking it up. Paired with the new Parad’Eyes Liner in Mauve Impression (mauve with white and pink pearlescent highlights), your peepers will really dazzle this season.

The new formula for Le Prisme Blush has a higher concentration of pigments. Delivering more bang for your buck, you can really see the color payoff. The 4 shades within the quad may be used alone or mixed together for a custom look. I tried the Aficionado Peach 23 and the coral shades gave a nice pop of color to my cheeks.

The ultra lightweight Le Prisme Visage face powder has an improved texture. The Peach Plumetis 83 and Beige Mousseline 84 shades practically blended right into my skin, giving it a very natural finish. Like the blush, this compact has a new “clap & slide” case. The magnetic compact pops open to expose the powder, and the lower drawer slides out to reveal the brush. With softer bristles and a contoured angle, the brush design is also a new feature to optimize application. For added fun, these compacts have an eyelet for attaching cell phone charms.

Now, here's the fun part! Givenchy offered to do a very special Custom Color Giveaway with us! Three lucky readers will be chosen for the fabulous prizes. Each winner will receive one Le Prisme Yeux Mono eyeshadow, one Le Prisme Blush and one Le Prisme Visage face powder of their choice from this new Spring collection.

To Enter:

Step 1: Tweet this post on Twitter (RT @feteafete Givenchy makeup giveaway http://tinyurl.com/ybvs28o ). IF you don't have a Twitter account, please leave an interesting comment below this post on which product shade you'd like to try (don't send generic ones like 'this sounds great').

Step 2: Email your full name & mailing address to feteafeteswag@gmail.com. Be sure to enter 'Givenchy Giveaway' in the subject line and your unlocked Twitter link in the body. DO NOT forget to email your name & address after you comment or tweet, or you'll be disqualified automatically!

Three winners will be chosen at random. Deadline is Sunday, February 14, at 11:59pm EST. U.S. residents only. Good luck!

www.givenchybeauty.com

For editorial consideration, a product sample was provided for this review. This giveaway is generously sponsored by Parfums Givenchy.

Tagged as: beauty, cosmetics, eyeshadow, giveaway, makeup, shopping, spring

Posted by Tami Yu at 6:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (7) | TrackBacks (0)

If you haven't set up a date night plan for V-day, here's your chance to do something neat. To stage a romantic mood, the Westin St. Francis is offering a special “Love Mixology” cocktail class for couples next weekend.

Lead by their resident “Love Mixologist,” you'll get to shake, stir, and blend your way through three cocktails (with tastings of course). You'll then choose your favorite cocktail to create together in the class. Cocktails include “Agave Kiss,” “Cupid’s Arrow” and “Love Potion #9.”

Don't worry, you won't go hungry. There will be some “love bites” (edible treats) for you to nibble on as you soak up the libations. A copy of all three drink recipes will also be provided for you and your lovey to recreate at home.

“Love Mixology” Cocktail Class
Saturday, February 13
4 – 5 p.m.
The Westin St. Francis
Caruso’s (Tower Lobby)
335 Powell Street
$50 per couple

To make reservations for the “Love Mixology” class call (415) 774-0264.

Tagged as: cocktail, drinks, gourmet, liquor, San Francisco, special events, spirits, valentine

Posted by Tami Yu at 3:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Let the courtship begin! Vosges Haut-Chocolat has a new Valentine's Day box for all you lovebirds. This limited edition Sweet Coquette Collection is encased within a beautiful handmade Victorian heart box. Designed by Chicago fashion designer Frog Greishaw, this creation is an homage to the elaborate Victorian-era valentines. Pink satin pleating, French netting and a black leather rose completes the eternal ode to love.

The aphrodisiac truffles within are sexy and stimulating - you and your valentine get to try flavors like Absinthe (Chinese star anise, fennel, and pastis), Bronte (Sicilian pistachio paste & rose water), Mamajuana (Mamajuana & chamomile) and Edith (Piper Heidsieck Rose Sauvage Champagne & rosebud tea). For me, the most intriguing truffle was the white chocolate Kumamoto (pearl dust & Kumamoto oysters). You'd be surprised, but a tinge of oyster essence adds an interesting taste experience to white chocolate.

To make things even more romantic, Vosges teamed up with boutique hotel expert Mr. & Mrs. Smith and Kiki de Montparnasse for a luxurious giveaway. The lucky winner gets two nights at the Hotel des Academies et des Arts, a membership to Vosges' Lunar Chocolate of the Month Club, and a $500 lingerie shopping spree from Kiki de Montparnasse. You'll also have a personal consultation with a Romance Concierge to plan the perfect evening in Paris.

Vosges Aphrodisiac Hatbox

www.vosgeschocolate.com

For editorial consideration, a product sample was provided for this review.

Tagged as: chocolate, chocolate truffles, gifts, gourmet, holiday, valentine

Posted by Tami Yu at 1:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

If you're having trouble keeping that new year's resolution to stay healthy, Beautifull! just opened another convenient SF location to help you stick to your diet in a delicious way.

Located in the bustling Sunset district, the new eatery has a much larger space and plenty of table seating, as well as a cozy heated patio in the back. They're also working with Susan Cervantes, Founder of Precita Eyes Muralists Association, to produce a large abstract mural in the patio representing happiness, contentment and love. How Beautifull is that?

There are a few new items on the menu since my last visit. The Moroccan Chicken and Red Thai Curry Turkey Bowl (with organic coconut milk) are my new favorites, and I love the fact that their meats are hormone-free. The Polenta Fries and Farro Risotto are also very good. For dessert, they have a chocolate chip cookie made with whole grains and flax seed. The 'chips' are actually cacao nibs, so it's lower in sugar and healthier for your body.

The best thing about their healthy menu? The food doesn't taste like diet food and it is so nutrient dense that I was pretty full for a long time. I didn't need an afternoon snack and ended up eating a lighter dinner.

Check out the entire menu at beautifull.com.

For editorial consideration, a press visit was provided for this review.

Tagged as: dinner, healthy, lunch, organic ingredients, restaurant, San Francisco

Posted by Tami Yu at 8:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

Shu Uemura is channeling the sexy glam rock icon this Spring. Inspired by the stage lighting from a Parisian discotheque, their new Egerie 2010 Mode Makeup collection helps you unleash your inner rock star with ease and sophistication. This line is for the modern spirit who wants to rebel yet remain elegant at the same time.

The Eye Shimmer Duo consists of two separate products. The first item is a liquid shimmer base. You start with a thin layer over the eyelid, then finish with a swath of sparkling powder. You can actually wear the liquid base by itself for an alternate look, but the finishing powder amps up the glam factor. It also has an interesting texture - it looks like a grainy powder but as you blend it into the lid it has a smooth feel that you expect from a solid cream-to-powder eyeshadow.

I liked the Glint Blue (brown base & silvery blue powder) and the Starry Violet (grey base & lavender-pink powder) shades. They're completely buildable, so you can use it for either day or night looks. This product will definitely draw everyone's attention to your eyes.

As for the face, the creamy Satin Radiant Stick comes in two shades. The Highlight stick adds a very light pink-white shimmer to the forehead and upper cheekbone, while the Blush color brings a natural and healthy glow to the 'apple' of the cheek. It's totally user-friendly - you can't over apply since it's so light. You also don't have to worry about using it in natural light. It would be pretty hard to end up like a kewpie doll with this product.

Katie White of The Ting Tings was smokin’ at the Grammys with the Egerie colors. The indie-rocker, whose band was nominated for the “Best New Artist”, rocked a sultry look created by celebrity makeup artist Amy Chance. Incorporating Katie's signature mod look, Amy worked her magic and shared her tips:

“I prepped Katie's skin with shu uemura’s red:juvenus revitalizing retexturing cream. I then used their new UV Under Base Fluid underneath her eyes and to her cheek bones. I used Armani Luminous Silk foundation to even out her skin tone, and then applied shu uemura’s Glow On blush in M Pink 31 on the apples of her cheeks. I highlighted the top of her cheek bones with Glow On in P Gold 94.

Credit: Getty Images

On Katie's eyes, I used shu uemura's new Eye Shimmer Duo in Glint Blue so her eyes would sparkle under the lights on the red carpet. We then used the Pressed Eye Shadow in Black 990 IR in her crease to deepen her eyes and give her a "mod", vintage look. I lined her top lids with Painting Liner in Black, and then lined her lower lid with the Drawing Pencil in ME Black. I accented her lashes with Individual Flare Lashes and Precise Volume Mascara.

Katie loves pink cheeks and lips, so to give her a final pop of color, and stay with her retro mod look, we finished her lips with Gloss Unlimited PK 344, a gorgeous bright pink. We finished her skin with Armani Fluid Sheer foundation to even out her skin tone and give it a bit of shimmer.”

www.shuuemura-usa.com

For editorial consideration, a product sample was provided for this review.

Tagged as: beauty, blush, cosmetics, eyeshadow, makeup, shopping, spring

Posted by Tami Yu at 5:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ladies and gents, V-day is just around the corner. If you happen to forget the flowers and love notes, do not forget about the chocolates! Recchiuti Confections has all the gourmet goodies to help you play cupid this Valentine's Day.

For a very limited time, the brand-new XO Box contains two types of chocolates to make your sweetheart smile. Each dark chocolate cherry truffle contains a candied cherry that's slightly tart and not too sweet. The rest of the box is filled with some of the most drool-worthy burnt caramel champagne hearts known to man. The intense salty-sweet caramel is gently caressed by Schramsberg Blanc de Noirs. I promise you, these will make your lover swoon...

If you want to give something more playful, the Valentine edition of the Candied Hazelnuts will win his or her heart. These toasted burnt caramel hazelnuts are coated in milk chocolate and finished with a satisfyingly crunchy candy shells. Don't underestimate these little treats - big things do come in small packages.

From now until 2/14, the website is offering an automatic 20% discount on all products on www.Recchiuti.com! Need I say more? So get down to the Ferry Building or order online today....before they run out of your favorite chocolates!

www.Recchiuti.com

For editorial consideration, a product sample was provided for this review.

Tagged as: artisan, chocolate, chocolate truffles, food, gift, gourmet, holiday, San Francisco, shopping, valentine

Posted by Tami Yu at 6:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)