fête à fête

Lancome ambassador Kate Winslet looked so regal last night at the Oscars. Wearing an elegant Yves Saint Laurent ensemble, Kate’s makeup artist Jillian Dempsey complemented her look with soft, natural makeup. Shimmering, champagne-pewter shades highlighted the eyes, while dramatic layers of mascara delivered extra definition. A pop of pink blush on her cheeks gave Kate just a hint of a natural flush. Jillian topped off the look with nude-pink lips.

Products used:

EYES
Jillian Dempsey for Avon Professional Kohl Eyeliner in Black
Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Mascara in Excessive Black
Avon True Color Eyeshadow Quad in Blushing Raisins
Lancôme Brow Expert in Naturel

FACE & CHEEKS
Lancôme Photôgenic Lumessence Foundation
Lancôme Dual Finish Powder Foundation
Shu Uemura Blush in Pink 30

LIPS
Lancôme L'Absolu Rouge in Rich Cashmere
Lancôme Color Fever Gloss in Hotness

As for Avatar heroine Zoe Saldana, makeup artist Vera Steimberg decided to concentrate on her gorgeous eyes. She achieved this look by using the black Slant false lashes from shu uemura. Steimberg also used the shu uemura eye lash applicator to apply the lashes. I have it and love it - it makes things so much easier.

Tagged as: beauty, celebrity, makeup, makeup tips, oscars, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 5:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | 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)

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)

In honor of Valentine's Day (yup, it's coming up real soon!), Linnea's Lights has a very meaningful gift idea for the women in your lives. As a featured scent for the romantic holiday, the small family-owned company is selling a special edition of their popular Currant Rouge hand-poured soy candle.

Sadly, for many women suffering from violence across the world, they won't be celebrating V-day. For this very reason Linnea's Lights will be donating 10% of sales to Vday.org to stop the violence. This partnership is indicated by the red heart-shaped stamp on top of the Currant Rouge candle lid.

Of course, if fruit-based scents aren't your lover's preference, there are other scents to ignite the flames of desire. The Amber is sensual but not too overwhelming - it's definitely magnetic with Egyptian Musk blended into the formula. Linden is a clean and fresh floral scent for those who like an everyday fragrance for their home.

Online retailers that sell Linnea's Lights candles: linneaslights.com/locations.php

To find out how you can help end violence against women and girls, visit: www.vday.org

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

Tagged as: candles, fragrance, gifts, holiday, shopping, special events, valentine

Posted by Tami Yu at 3:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

As some of you Bay Area foodies might know, our beloved Soul Food Farm had a horribly destructive fire last month. 1,000 baby chicks were lost, and 30 acres of pasture were burnt to the ground.

The local food community is trying to help the farm recover by setting up fundraising dinners. If you don't have plans this Sunday evening, I urge you to attend the benefit dinner hosted at Daniel Patterson's Il Cane Rosso. All proceeds will benefit Soul Food Farm.

Check out the tasty 3-course menu, served family-style:

Starter: Mariquita Farm tomato salad with kale and a roasted tomato vinaigrette
Entree: Prather Ranch roast beef
Sides: Full Belly Farm potato gratin & Mariquita Farm braised chard w/ garlic and lemon
Dessert: Apple cake with caramel sauce

The details:

Date: Sunday, October 11
Location: Il Cane Rosso, SF Ferry Building
Time: 1st seating is 5:30-6 p.m.; 2nd is 7:30-8 p.m.
Price: $50 per person, including wine & beer (exclusive of tax & gratuity)
Reservations: 415-391-7599
www.canerossosf.com

Tagged as: food, gourmet, San Francisco, San Francisco event, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 1:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

I thought I've seen it all with the latest skin care trends, but the gorgeous SenSpa had something truly unique to offer in terms of skin exfoliation and renewal. I recently tried the amazing Super Hydrating Facial, one of the most popular services at SenSpa. I didn't really know what the hype was all about, but I can now attest to amazing results from this treatment.

The facial features a patented HydraFacial machine that performs a really efficient surface exfoliation. The HydraPeel tip planes off the dead skin cells, revealing brighter and softer "baby" cells (don't worry, it won't hurt at all). The tip also flushes your skin with a special blend of antioxidant-infused fruit acids. A custom mask and additional protective serums are then applied, ensuring all pigmentation and anti-aging issues are addressed.

I haven't seen this type of exfoliating machine anywhere else, so I think they're the only ones that have this special treatment in the Bay Area. I couldn't believe how butter soft my skin is. This is as close to baby skin as I'm going to get!

This day spa is really a zen oasis sitting on the edge of the Presidio. They really emphasize wellness and holistic treatments to heal your body and soul. They even have a wellness coach to help you address your personal needs. How cool is that?

There is a special skin care package going on right now at SenSpa. The first 50 folks to book the new Polarity Peel will receive a free full-size bottle of the new SkinCeuticals Retexturizing Activator ($70 value). What a deal.

Another promotion, called the SenSpa Road to Recovery, is another sweet deal to think about. From now through September 30, when you enjoy 4 treatments (valued at a minimum of $110 each), you'll receive a SenSpa gift card worth $115. You don't need to pay for all 4 treatments up front - just pay as you go.

They're also hosting a Stella & Dot trunk show on Tuesday, September 29th from 6:30-8:30pm. Try on gorgeous costume jewelry and enjoy light refreshments in the spa’s serene Presidio setting. BONUS: book any SenSpa treatment while at the event and you’re automatically entered into a drawing for Stella & Dot gift certificates!

SenSpa
1161 Gorgas Avenue
San Francisco, CA
415.441.1777

www.senspa.com

Tagged as: beauty, Lifestyle, Luxury, San Francisco, skin care, special events, travel

Posted by Tami Yu at 2:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

Ladies...got any plans next Tuesday evening? If not, you should check out the Fashion, Fun & Bubbles Cocktail Party at Silks Restaurant. Located inside the Mandarin Oriental, attendees will be able to sip on all the Domaine Chandon Champagne they can handle, participate in a Krug Champagne tasting, and best of all, experience the Shu Uemura cosmetics line.

Other fun highlights include:

• Belvedere Cocktail Bar
• Culinary Delights by Orlando Pagan, Chef de Cuisine of Silks
• Introducing the Fall line of VindyCo, San Francisco’s up and coming fashion designer
• Marisa Youlden Jewelry
• Music from Carl Banks
• Complimentary Goody Bags for first 50 tickets purchased
• Door Prizes and Raffles

Ticket prices: $40 each OR $75 for two!

Tuesday, September 22
7:30 - 10:30 pm
Silks (Mandarin Oriental Hotel)
222 Sansome Street
San Francisco

*For more information or to purchase tickets contact Priscilla Young at 415.276.9773 or email pyoung@mohg.com.

Tagged as: beauty, champagne, fashion, food, San Francisco, special events, wine

Posted by Tami Yu at 1:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I couldn't ask for a lovelier holiday weekend. I went to the 30th Annual Showcase: Taste of Sonoma (part of Sonoma Wine Country Weekend) in Healdsburg, and the drive to MacMurray Ranch was just plain gorgeous.

With over 160 wineries offering the best regional wines, this is one of the largest epicurean events in Northern CA. You can also spend hours tasting local food from 60 restaurants. Let's just say your belly will be quite full by the time it's over.

Pulled Duck & Pork Belly Sandwich from Carneros Bistro & Wine Bar

If you had too much to eat and drink, there was plenty of chef action at the Gourmet Kitchen demos. Chef Douglas Keane of Cyrus (looove that place) was one of the judges at a Steel Chef Competition.

Being a total sweet tooth, I had to try these delish Mini Chocolate S'mores Tarts from El Dorado Kitchen. To really seal the deal, these were paired with Valrhona Chocolate Cookies topped with sea salt and white chocolate chips. Needless to say, I went home a happy camper.

Tagged as: food, gourmet, Lifestyle, special events, travel, wine, wine country, wine tasting

Posted by Tami Yu at 1:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

Shopaholics in NYC, mark your calendars so you don't miss the exciting Fashion's Night Out event. The entire city will be buzzing with tons of shopping deals on the evening of September 10. To celebrate fashion and to promote the economy, everyone from Versace to Kiehl's will be offering giveaways and exclusive parties on this special occasion.

In honor of Fashion Night Out, Jurlique will be offering a free, full-size cleanser with any purchase of two products or more (a $40 value). A favorite among celebrities such as Kate Moss and Maggie Gyllenhaal, their products are made with certified biodynamic botanicals. See for yourself at the Madison Avenue and West Broadway (Soho) stores.

While you're there, don't forget to smell the new and incredible Jasmine Shower Gel. It's the next best thing to having a jasmine garden! Comprised of 92% natural ingredients, this gentle body cleanser has a proprietary biodynamic blend of herbs and botanicals to keep your skin soft and hydrated. If you're in need of new skin care, the Purely Age-Defying Eye Cream and Purely Age-Defying Hand Treatment are both luxurious, high-performance products that will fight the aging process. Both items have a great moisture factor and contain ingredients such as Black Elder and Arnica to fade off the fine lines and discolorations.

If you're not in NYC, don't fret just yet. To kick off the festivities, Jurlique is doing a special giveaway with us! We're giving away the Replenishing Foaming Cleanser (retail value $40) to one lucky reader.

To Enter:

Step 1: Tweet this post on Twitter (RT @feteafete Jurlique Giveaway http://tinyurl.com/ndfpye ). IF you don't have a Twitter account, please leave an interesting comment below this post on which product 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 'Jurlique 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!

One winner will be chosen at random. Deadline is Thursday, September 10, at 11:59pm EST. USA residents only. Good luck!

Tagged as: beauty, body wash, fashion, giveaway, moisturizer, NYC, shopping, skin care, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 6:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (4) | TrackBacks (0)

I got to check out the first SF Chefs.Food.Wine in Union Square last weekend, and it was totally hoppin'. Featuring the city's culinary glitterati, the four-day food extravaganza was quite an impressive debut. There were plenty of food demos, wine tastings, dinners, and panels to keep foodies on their tippy toes.

Perbacco's house cured sardine with salsa verde, celery heart, and slow-cooked egg yolk.

The Saturday Grand Tasting tent was a food and wine mecca. Staffan Terje of Perbacco served an amazing buttery house-cured sardine fillet with a salsa verde (these were cured for 48 hours). It took a lot of self restraint not to go back for more. I saw a couple ladies sneaking seconds, so it was that good. If you haven't been to Perbacco, you need to...like right this second.

Janine Falvo of the Carneros Bistro & Wine Bar did an entertaining demo on making Frog Hollow peach ice cream with liquid nitrogen. The demo stage looked more like a mad scientist lab with the frothy concoction billowing into the audience.

Ryan Scott of Ryan Scott 2 Go served a superb roasted red grape and fennel crostini with white bean puree. Yum.

Gerald Hirigoyen and his lovely Piperade team had the most tender and refreshing calamari & watermelon salad. It's the perfect dish to revive me from the warm weather.

Ana Mandara did a fantastic ahi & hamachi tatare with avocado mousse, wasabi tobiko and orange vinaigrette. This one was so popular they ran out well before the end of the tasting.

Jenn Puccio of Cortez fired up the torch for her brûléed mission figs with kaffir lime oil and vanilla salt. These were quite irresistible.

If you missed this year's events, be check to check it out next time. This is a great testament to the rich heritage of the SF Bay Area food scene.

www.sfchefsfoodwine.com

Tagged as: chef, food, gourmet, Lifestyle, San Francisco, special events, wine

Posted by Tami Yu at 5:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBacks (0)

Ladies - here's your latest arsenal to plump up your fabulous lips. The new Givenchy Le Makeup Gloss Interdit collection is finally on the counters. Available it 15 gorgeous shades, these opaque glosses are more of a liquid lipstick. My personal favorites are Lilac Confession, Rose Taboo, and Indiscreet Beige. For a fun look, I recommend Succulent Orange and Glamorous Fuschia. The Velvet Purple is great for a goth look.

The pearlescent (Silvershine) and mirror-like (Silverglass) particles give the non-sticky formula an exceptional shine to the lips, as if you've been painted with airbrush makeup. For a plumping and moisturizing effect, microspheres of hyaluronic acid settle on the lips to fill in fine lines. The texture is comfy, without being too thick.

The lovely and elegant Liv Tyler, spokeswoman for the Gloss Interdit campaign.

Aren't these colors just divine? Makes you wanna get them all, doesn't it?

Want to try this wonderful new gloss? Here's your chance! The fabulous ladies at Givenchy are teaming up with us to give away two glosses to THREE winners each!

To Enter:

Step 1: Tweet this post on Twitter (RT @feteafete Givenchy Gloss Interdit Giveaway http://tinyurl.com/m6ewfk ). IF you don't have a Twitter account, please leave an interesting comment below this post on which 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 Gloss Interdit 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 Thursday, August 13, at 11:59pm EST. USA residents only. Good luck!

Tagged as: beauty, celebrity, cosmetics, giveaway, Lifestyle, lip color, lip gloss, Liv Tyler, Luxury, makeup, shopping

Posted by Tami Yu at 6:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (13) | TrackBacks (0)

It's hard to believe that summer is winding down, but in the world of beauty, the Fall collections are here. Kicking off the color celebration is Aaron de Mey's new colors for Lancôme. Embodying the free spirit of a woman, the Declaring Indigo collection is pure sassy French irreverence.

Think deep blues, bright golds, and sexy reds. As one of the star items, the Ink Artliner in Indigo Charm is a gorgeous shimmery deep blue eyeliner that's great for subtle to dramatic looks. You can do a thin line for daytime makeup, and then build it up for a vampy cat eye. The gel formula makes it easy for on-the-go application. Pair it with the Le Vernis nail polish in Indigo Paris and you've got it made for this season's hot look.

Here's your chance to get the collection for 20% less! Just print the coupon below, and bring it to any of the Lancôme boutiques (in NY, CA, NJ, and TX) for an exclusive Friends & Family 20% discount. This coupon is valid through 8/08/09. This discount is not valid at any other Lancôme locations, counters or lancome-usa.com.

Tagged as: beauty, cosmetics, discount, eye makeup, eyeliner, makeup, shopping

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

Ladies - want to win a sexy trip for you and your BFF to NYC? Here's your chance to do so. Purple Lab is hosting a rockin' Kiss and Tell Your Huge Lips Skinny Hips I.D. contest with Brickfish. Just choose the lip gloss color that best represents your style and personality, then upload a photo of yourself. It's that easy.

The most viral entry gets the grand prize: a glam trip to the Big Apple, hosted by the lovely Karen Robinovitz, creatrix of this wildly popular lip gloss! Karen will take the winner around town, showing her the inspirations behind the lip colors. There will be private pole lessons, burlesque school, and you also get to stay at the chic Smyth Hotel in Tribeca! Runner-up winners will get some of Karen's superb glosses, natch!

So what are you waiting for? Head over to www.purplelabnyc.com/kissandtell.html to enter today! The contest ends August 27, 2009.

If you haven't tried the fabuous lip-plumping gloss (with Hoodia to keep those hips skinny), get yours at b-glowing.

Tagged as: beauty, contest, Lifestyle, lip gloss, makeup, shopping, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 11:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

We all know Shu Uemura has a world-class cosmetics line (heck, Madonna uses the cleansing oil), but did you know their hair care line is just as divine? For a chance to try their luxurious hair care products, Shu Uemura Art of Hair is having a spectacular sweepstakes that they're hosting through June 30.

Only one randomly-selected Grand Prize winner will win one year’s worth of Shu Uemura Art of Hair products (retail value approximately $1680.00!). Wow. So my beauties, you only have about five days left to enter! To enter, go to www.shuuemuraartofhair-usa.com to fill out a profile.

Other fine print: U.S. residents only. This sweepstakes ends at 11:59:59 PM ET on June 30th, 2009. Existing Shu Uemura Art of Hair registrants and Salon Professionals are not eligible. Consumer non–registrants must register by completing their online profile, providing their complete name, birth date, zip code and a valid e-mail address to be entered. Limit one entry per person/e-mail address.

Tagged as: beauty, contest, giveaway, hair care, Luxury, shopping, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 10:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

shu uemura had their 26th Tokyo boutique anniversary party here in SF last night and luckily I got to join in on the fun. As we noshed on sushi and bopped to groovy tunes, we got to check out the new 2009 Tokyo Lash Bar collection. What fun and dramatic styles! I just want to wear all of them...

Alana is rocking out the Marine Tide lashes. Gorgeous.

Fleur-ever lashes

Fermina wearing Goldglam Leaf lashes. You can wear them on the upper or lower lash line.

Nicole sporting the Snow Twist lashes for that ice princess look.

www.shuuemura-usa.com

Tagged as: beauty, fashion, lash, Lifestyle, San Francisco, shopping, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 1:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fans of Kettle Brand chips are being invited to create the next great potato chip flavor. For a limited time, you can get the Create-a-Chip Kit and submit your special creative flavor at www.kettlechipchallenge.com.

The kit comes with everything flavor artists need to make their ultimate potato chips: four 1 oz. bags of unseasoned chips and seven packets of seasoning blends. For inspiration, each Create-a-Chip Kit also comes with 5 oz. bags of past People’s Choice winners: Spicy Thai™, Buffalo Bleu™ and Tuscan Three Cheese Kettle Brand® Potato Chips.

To get you going, we're giving away one Create-a-Chip Kit to a lucky reader!

To Enter:

Step 1: Tweet this post on Twitter (RT @feteafete Kettle Create-a-Chip Kit giveaway http://tinyurl.com/nnhwxb ). IF you don't have a Twitter account, please leave an interesting comment below this post on why you like this brand (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 'Kettle 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!

One winner will be chosen at random. Deadline is Tuesday, June 23, at 11:59pm EST. U.S. residents only. Good luck!

Tagged as: food, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 4:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBacks (0)

Givenchy's 2009 summer Collection S is truly a sexy greeting from paradise. Inspired by warm sand and the sun's pure drops of light, Artistic Director Nicolas Degennes does it again with this spectacular collection.

Presented in two color quartets, The PRISME AGAIN ! VISAGE is a limited edition powder compact that provides a natural and radiant finish. The #13 Sun Mango is perfect for lighter complexions, and the #14 Sun Cinnamon is ideal for darker tones. I love the Sun Mango - the shades just melt onto my skin. The light Radiant Blossom fragrance reminds one of walking through a lush, tropical garden on a sultry summer evening.

For sparkling kisses, the new POP GLOSS CRYSTAL delivers with 446 Sun Rose, a coral pink with white shimmer, and 447 Sun Coral, a glam orange with white and red shimmer.

The PRISMISSIME MAT & GLOW Face Powder has 9 colors to sculpt out the sun queen in you. The matte shades help even out the skin for a natural visage, while the glowing ones highlight the contours for a luminous look. These customizable shades also work real well as an eyeshadow! To use, just mix all 9 shades together with a circular movement, then apply over the face, shoulders and décolletage.

To celebrate the collection's launch, we're giving away one Prismissime Mat & Glow in the new Sun Caramel shade to a lucky reader. This gorgeous 9-color face powder (retail $53) will keep you looking like a sun goddess all summer.

To Enter:

Step 1: Tweet this post on Twitter (RT @feteafete Givenchy summer beauty & Prismissime Mat & Glow giveaway http://tinyurl.com/kmt9jv ). IF you don't have a Twitter account, please leave an interesting comment below this post on why you like this brand, or what you'd like to try from this line (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!

One winner will be chosen at random. Deadline is Sunday, June 14, at 11:59pm EST. U.S. residents only. Good luck!

www.parfumsgivenchy.com

Tagged as: beauty, cosmetics, giveaway, limited edition, Luxury, makeup, shopping

Posted by Tami Yu at 2:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (8) | TrackBacks (0)

Beloved foodie and wine fans of the Tablehopper, don't miss this special Italian wine tasting with the gourmet diva! You'll be in a guided exploration class that will feature delicious Sicilian wines and pairing them with tasty nibbles from CookWithJames.

Some wines that will be highlighted: bubbles from Murgo, COS's exquisite Ramí 2007 and the "Scyri" Nero d'Avola 2001. You'll also try a Passito di Pantelleria–Kammeo from Guicciardini Strozzi. To close the sweet evening, take a sip of one of Marcia's fave amaros (Averna of Caltanissetta), and some Limoni di Sicilia.

The event is located at The Cheese School of San Francisco - you'll also be trying some scrumptious Southern Italian cheeses as a bonus. How can you resist that? I think not.

Buy tickets here: tablehoppertasting.eventbrite.com

tablehopper wine tasting

Wed. June 3rd, 2009

The Cheese School of San Francisco
2155 Powell St.
Cross: Francisco St.
San Francisco, CA 94133

6:30pm reception
7pm–9pm wine and food tasting

$79 (includes ticket processing fees)

Tagged as: food, food and drink, gourmet, San Francisco, special events, wine, wine tasting

Posted by Tami Yu at 11:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

May is Asian Heritage Month, and to celebrate this, we're doing a special and fun book giveaway with Hachette Book Group! We're giving away 3 sets of books of the following great titles:

Free Food for Millionaires By Min Jin Lee
Trail of Crumbs By Kim Sunée
The Fortune Cookie Chronicles By Jennifer Lee
Transparency By Frances Hwang
Strangers from a Different Shore By Ronald Takaki

Each winner will receive the entire set of books (five books per set). What a deal, huh?

To Enter:

Step 1: Tweet this post on Twitter (RT @feteafete: Win a set of books! Asian Heritage Month Giveaway w/ Hachette! Enter at http://tinyurl.com/pqg2gb ). IF you don't have a Twitter account, please leave an interesting comment below on which title you'd like to read (please no generic ones like 'this sounds great!').

Step 2: Email your full name & mailing address to feteafeteswag@gmail.com. DO NOT forget to send your name and address to this email after you comment or tweet, or you'll be disqualified automatically.

Three winners will be chosen at random. Deadline is May 31, at 11:59pm EST.
U.S. and Canadian residents only. No PO Boxes please. Good luck!

www.hachettebookgroup.com

Tagged as: Books, giveaway, Lifestyle, shopping, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 3:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (15) | TrackBacks (0)

Check out the following makeup used by Lancome for the Metropolitan Museum of Art for Vogue's Costume Institute gala. The star-studded evening included hosts Marc Jacobs, Kate Moss and Justin Timberlake, and many luminous beauties from the fashion and film realm.

Celebrity makeup artist Leslie Lopez gave Anne Hathaway her ultra-dramatic look with smokey eyes as the focal point. Leslie swept Lancôme Color Design Eyeshadow in Statuesque over the entire eyelid, then dabbed Color Design Eyeshadow in Daylight on the brow bone.

She finished with several coats of Lancôme L'Extreme Mascara in Black. Anne’s sheer, neutral colored lipstick--Lancôme L’Absolu Rouge Lipstick in Couture Suede—was the finishing touch.

Supermodel Du Juan's look:
Lancôme makeup artist Andrew Sotomayor created Du Juan’s radiance by using Lancôme Artliner in Brown on the upper lash line. He then added a few coats of Lancôme Virtuôse Black Carat Mascara, giving her lashes a boost of volume and length.

Andrew added just a touch of color to the eyes with Shu Uemura Eyeshadow in ME Brown 860 and ME Pink 100. He lined the lips with Lancôme Le Lipstique in Natural Mauve and topped it with La Laque Fever gloss in Pink Dimension, resulting in a pretty pink pout. A dusting of Star Bronzer in Bronze Dore gave Du Juan a sun-kissed complexion.

(Image credit: Style.com)

Tagged as: beauty, celebrity, eyeliner, fashion, lipstick, makeup, mascara, shopping, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 1:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

shu uemura is having a 20% discount on all purchases (and FREE standard shipping) with any purchase over $50 between today through May 7. If you need to stock up on your favorite lashes, eyeshadows or cleansing oils, here's your chance to do it with a nice discount. Just enter the special promo code: NEWSITEBLOG upon checkout.

They also just launched a new site design, with a brand-new custom makeup palette feature. If you register as a shopping site member you can select a free deluxe sample. Whoo hoo!

www.shuuemura-usa.com

Tagged as: beauty, cosmetics, discount, eyeshadow, Luxury, makeup, promotion, shopping, skin care

Posted by Tami Yu at 6:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Going out this Thursday night? Here's your chance to help change lives of San Francisco youth. STREETSMART4KIDS is teaming up with Sugar Café for a special night to raise funds for at-risk and homeless youth.

A percentage of proceeds from food and specialized drinks will go towards STREETSMART4KIDS. A special ‘StreetSmart’ cocktail will be created just for the event.

Thursday, April 30th
6:00PM - 9:00PM
Sugar Café
679 Sutter Street
San Francisco, CA

For more info on STREETSMART4KIDS, go to www.streetsmartusa.org. Beneficiares include Huckleberry Youth Programs, Larkin Street Youth Services, and teen programs of La Casa de las Madres.

Tagged as: cocktails, dessert, drink, food, fundrasier, San Francisco, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 5:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I always get excited when the annual SF International Film Festival rolls around. This year marks SFIFF's 52nd year, and the selections are as exciting as ever. This year's star-studded appearances include Robert Redford, Francis Ford Coppola, Evan Rachel Wood, and Elijah Wood. I'm looking forward to watching 500 Days of Summer (starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel, Rudo Y Cursi (Gael García Bernal - drool!), and La Mission (with Benjamin Bratt).

Here are a few films to check out:

Versailles (France) - Versailles is a heartbreaking look at 'les marginaux' in France. Damien (Guillaume Depardieu) is a homeless man living in the woods caring for Enzo, a five-year-old child left behind by his mother. This is one of Depardieu's last performances, and it's one you shouldn't miss. I liked how director Pierre Schoeller refused to show sentiment between man and child, and instead hones in on the brutal hardships of extreme poverty. Fighting cold, illness, and hunger, the two form a bond that's as real as a father-son bond. Despite the grave nature of the film, it's also an uplifting look of survival.

Guillaume Depardieu and Max Baissette de Malglaive in Versailles

35 Shots of Rum (France) - Claire Denis's finely wrought narrative of a small circle of Parisian friends is a thoughtful mediation on the many different forms of love. This tight 'family' of friends and relatives center around Lionel (Alex Descas), a train engineer, who lives with his daughter Jo (Mati Diop). A taxi driver (Nicole Dogué) lives in the same building, along with Noe, a brooding young man. It's not obvious in the beginning, but we get to piece each relationship together as the film goes along. I love how the small moments (Descas's strong, silent gazes are so elegant and deliver such power) create such an emotional impact on the overall feel of the film. Agnés Godard’s delicate cinematography is meant to enjoyed slowly and thoroughly.

Mati Diop and Alex Descas in 35 Shots of Rum

Artemisia (Taiwan) - First-time director Chiang Hsiu Chiung worked with New Wave master Hou Hsiao-hsien, and her gentle and leisurely paced film is centered around a conservative widow coming to terms with her son's homosexuality and her daughter's out-of-wedlock child. Actress Pan Li Li's performance is a solid portrayal of an older generation trying to understand the modern realities of their children.

Pan Li Li and Mo Tzu-Yi in Artemisia

French Girl (France/Morocco) - National and self identities are deeply questioned for young French-born Sofia in Souad El-Bouhati’s wonderful first feature. After her father loses his job, the entire family relocates back to their homeland of Morocco. Trying to retain her proud Gallic origins, Sofia toils away in her university studies while her traditional parents try to reign in her headstrong personality. Longing to return to her beloved France, she declares “If I stay here, I’ll die.” César Award–winning actress Hafsia Herzi lends the character of Sofia a passionate and maturity to the character, making this film thoroughly enjoyable.

Hafsia Herzi in French Girl

The SFIFF runs April 23 to May 7. Tickets are on sale at: fest09.sffs.org/info/box_office.php.

Tagged as: celebrity, entertainment, film, film director, Film Festival, film review, Film Stars, movie, San Francisco, special events

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

Kiehl’s is celebrating Earth Day by introducing a Limited Edition set of their Superbly Restorative Argan Body Lotion. 100% of net proceeds will benefit WATERKEEPER ALLIANCE. Adrian Grenier, Erykah Badu, Kelly Slater, and Parsons The New School For Design have teamed up with Kiehl’s to create four Limited Edition labels to represent their commitment to sustainabilty.

The lotion is made with fairly-traded, organic, Moroccan Argan Oil and Argan Leaf Extract, and the bottles are made from 100% Post Consumer Recycled packaging. This is a lightweight lotion that absorbs easily, smells fresh, and will help restore resilience to the skin.

In conjunction with the limited edition lotion launch, Kiehl’s has also launched www.kiehlsgivesback.com for those who want to get more involved. There will be a 3-day auction starting on Earth Day. Auction items include an Adrian Grenier autographed Season 4 of Entourage DVD Set, and an autographed autobiography by Kelly Slater.

kiehls.com

Tagged as: auction, beauty, fair trade, green, lotion, organic ingredients, shopping, skin care, special events

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Oakland-based artist Kat Geiger has some unique terrariums for elegant and green home decor. These mini-wonderlands are created with recycled materials such as vintage light fixtures and old whiskey bottles. They are so cute! I gotta thank Kasey of Bay Area Style File for the heads up.

These beautiful living works of art are so low maintenance. Just mist with a spray bottle every week and you're set.

Kat is having a trunk show at Urban Indigo this month, so don't miss this fun event. There will be refreshments and live music, so definitely check it out!

Saturday, April 18, 2009
2pm- 5pm
Urban Indigo
3339 Lakeshore Avenue
Oakland, CA
510.419.0451

And, while you're there, check out the cute goodies in this lovely store. How darling is this button bowl? I also want that hand-made jade glass cake platter...

www.urbanindigo.com

Tagged as: bay area, shopping, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 11:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

Get your shopping digits ready. Neiman Marcus is hosting an online trunk show of Guerlain’s Exclusive Fragrance collection. For 2 weeks only, you can now get these rare perfumes online. Normally you can only buy these in the seven U.S. Guerlain boutiques, so this is such a convenient way to stock up on your favorite fragrances, or try a new one without leaving your home. This is great for those are who far away from the retail stores.

Available collections include L’Art et la Matiere (Cuir Beluga, Angélique Noire, etc.), Les Elixirs Charnels, the gorgeous 180th Year Collector’s Case, and La Petite Robe Noire, which debuted last month.

The Chypre Fatal and Gourmand Coquin sound so good. I'm very tempted to check this out...

Check out the trunk show here: www.neimanmarcus.com

Tagged as: beauty, fragrance, Luxury, perfume, scents, shopping, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 11:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBacks (0)

SF scent divas, you are in luck. The super talented and lovely parfumeur Yosh Han is offering a Vibrational Perfumery workshop this Spring. This workshop isn't like any other perfume workshop, as it's based on intuition and chakra energy work. It will be quite the treat, I promise.

Yosh will do a basic history of perfume, then a run down on the technical info (on top notes, middle notes and base notes, fragrance families). You will also smell 100+ materials and learn about Perfume Design. Her special "reverse birthday candle" technique is not to be missed. Each participant will create their own Aromatic Attunement in an 8 ml French flacon bottle.

Saturday, April 25th OR Sunday, May 3rd
9:30 AM: Meet and Greet, Tea
10:00 AM - 1 PM Workshop
End or Lunch break
2 - 3:30 PM Optional shopping
Create your own Perfumer's Kit

Please RSVP - Limited to 6 people only!
Sign-up at 415.626.5385 or Yosh@eaudeyosh.com
Workshop Fee: $250.00 ($50 deposit)

www.eaudeyosh.com

Tagged as: beauty, fragrance, Lifestyle, Luxury, perfume, San Francisco, scents, shopping, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 5:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Hello my dear loyal readers!

The annual 2009 Glam Network Awards went live yesterday and I'm proud to be nominated under the Living publisher category. If you have a minute, I'd really appreciate it if you can show your support by voting for me here: http://www.glam.com/contests/2009networkawards/2009networkawards.php

Just go to the URL and click on the Living category, and vote! The contest lasts for 2 weeks, so be sure to get your vote in before April 13. The competition is quite fierce, so each vote counts...

Many, many thanks to all the darling readers who've participated in the giveaways, emailed, commented, or read the blog! I couldn't have done it without your support.

-Tami

Tagged as: award, Northern California, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 7:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Today is International Women's Day, and it reminds us all that we have a long road ahead in ending sexual slavery across the world. To do our part, the New York Chapter of The Somaly Mam Foundation is partnering with eBay Giving Works to raise enough money to rescue and rehabilitate more victims of human trafficking.

The eBay auction features favorite luxury beauty and fashion items at 50-75% off retail.

Givenchy Spring 2009 makeup collection featured for auction

Highlights include:

Cut & color with celebrity stylist David Evangelista
Tickets to the Diane von Furstenberg Spring 2010 Runway show in September 2009
Over $1000 in Givenchy Le Makeup, Skincare, and Fragrance
The new Dior L'Or de Vie Skincare Collection
Autographed Anya Hindmarch handbag

...and much more beauty from brands including Fresh, Guerlain. Dior, Sephora, and Frederic Fekkai!

Dior's new L'Or de Vie skincare collection, one of the many auction items featured

Somaly Mam, a survivor of human trafficking, was sold into a life of sexual slavery at a very young age. She finally escaped this dangerous world and became a spokeswoman for women and children tortured in the brothels of Cambodia. In 2006, Somaly was honored as Glamour Magazine's Woman of the Year for her courageous work in fighting sexual slavery, and she has been profiled as a CNN Hero in recognition of her brave fight to save so many young, innocent victims from this horrible and silent crime.

All proceeds will go to The Somaly Mam Foundation in Cambodia (www.somaly.org). The auction site is
http://stores.shop.ebay.com/thesomalymamfoundation.

Tagged as: Accessories, auction, beauty, beauty product, fashion, international, Lifestyle, sale, shopping, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 1:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

The excitement may be over from this year's Oscars, but the styles from the lovely celebs will stay in our minds for a long time. Here's a few of our faves:

Vive La France! Marion Cotillard has always been a favorite of mine, even before she got internationally recognized for "La Vie En Rose." She totally nailed it with elegant drama without going over the top with Dior. Stunning, deceptively simple, yet classy - everything I adore about French couture. Oh, how I love her and her style.

Here's what Stevie, of LA-Story.com had to say about Cotillard's ensemble: I find this outfit intriguing. I wasn't hot for it right off-- but then when I took a good look at the entire ensemble, what's not to like? . The deep color is so very flattering for her and the shape of the dress creates a very retro-glam 1950's glamour that's dramatic and works for her. Unlike others who went strapless, , she wore a necklace which creates interest and leads the eye to Cotillard's face. Love the ring she has on -- it's stunning!

Penelope Cruz was totally channeling Audrey Helpburn in this Balmain vintage outfit. It was sweetly romantic and charming without overdoing it like Sarah Jessica Parker. Love it. White is not my favorite color (and some though it was too princess bride) but she pulled it off nicely a la Roman Holiday.

Stevie: I like the essence of the dress. It's much like the black one she wore at the BAFTAS and while it works a la Audrey Hepburn, the lack of color just drains the life out of her. Make this red, deep rose, burgundy, deep forest green, any range of blue hues and this would be a smashing dress. Penelope, I think you got just a bit tired towards the end. The bag doesn't work with the dress. If you are going to pull off that dress, then carry a vintage style bag too.

Nicole Kidman had the classic, ethereal, 'very Nicole' style in L'Wren Scott. She looked very retro-glam in this one, and I approve heartily. It's like a beautiful ice goddess came down upon earth to bestow her beauty for us to enjoy...

Here's Stevie's take: Gorgeous dress with unique detailing at the bodice. It's really eye-catching. Would have loved to have seen it created in a different, richer color as this almost matches Kidman's skin tone. Her hairstyle is amazing and opens up her neckline which made it an ideal opportunity to wear a fabulous-- yet delicate-- necklace to work with those earrings and either a ring or a couple of sleek thin bangle bracelets.

Taraji P. Henson was also sporting the sweet and innocent feel with her choice of Roberto Cavalli. I like the simple chic in this one. Good move overall, even if it's a bit too bridal looking.

Gorgeous dress on Taraji. I think she was truly one of the best dressed with an edgy design that flattered her body and made her truly a star on the red carpet. The color was perfect with her skintone!
Stevie, LA-Story.com

Leslie Mann had an incredible hot-mama Pamela Roland gown on. Smokin' diva! I hope to be this hottie hot when I get to her age...it draped on her body so nicely without baring too much flesh.

Stevie says: Pamela Roland should be so happy to have this dress on Leslie Mann and vice versa. It's stunning on Mann because the design skims her body perfectly. The dress is killer, smokin', sexy-hot and without showing off a lot of skin either. No mean feat that.

I wish everyone had made the right choices. I really love Beyonce, but man, this House of Deréon dress made
her look like a cartoon character. I dig her lovely curves but this matronly design exaggerated the hips which is not what we want. The severe bustline is not flattering to her voluptuous figure.

Stevie's take: Typically Beyonce "wows" you on the red carpet, but this dress makes a statement in all the wrong ways: too big on the hips, the retro-hemline, the overwhelming pattern, the top makes her look like a Barbie doll or Jessica Rabbit (my apologies to Jessica Rabbit for the comparison). This dress should teach Beyonce that you should not dump the kitchen sink of design elements into one dress. Plus what's with the lack of jewelry?

Tagged as: celebrity, entertainment, fashion, fashion design, Film, Film Stars, gown, Lifestyle, Luxury, special events, Style

Posted by Tami Yu at 12:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

As the lovely IFB bloggers wrapped up New York Fashion Week and headed to London, we've got lots of great fashion week coverage below. Also check out our own London Soiree which happened this week!

independentfashionbloggers.org/2009/02/26/links-a-la-mode-ifb-weekly-roundup-9/

Tagged as: Accessories, celebrity, clothing, entertainment, fashion, fashion design, fashion show, jewelry, Lifestyle, shoes, shopping, Style

Posted by Tami Yu at 9:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Charles Dickens fans take note - the new season of PBS MASTERPIECE just began this week, and will feature an encore presentation of the “David Copperfield” with Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter) in his first film role (3/09 - check listings), and an Andrew Davies version of “Little Dorrit” (starts 3/29), and culminating with “The Old Curiousity Shop” (5/3).

Claire Foy in Little Dorrit; BBC 2008/ Mike Hogan for MASTERPIECE

The Brass Sisters also teamed up with PBS to develop Dickensian comfort foods (Sheila and Marilynn Brass of Heirloom Cooking with The Brass Sisters) for the MASTERPIECE Book Club. You can download recipes like Hearty English Meat Pie, Shepherd's Pie, and Irish Sponge Cake. Or Try the scone recipe below!

Currant Cream Scones
by Marilynn and Sheila Brass
Makes 12 scones

Scones were the comfort food of the Victorians. A Scottish contribution to the English culinary menu, they were enjoyed hot with butter and jam, and clotted cream. Originally made with oats, the composition of scones has become more refined because the texture of flour and sugar and the size of eggs have become more standardized. The cooks of Dickens’ time had to break up their sugar with metal nips because it came in large cones wrapped with blue paper. They also had to pulverize it to the desired grain. Flour varied from mill to mill, and eggs came directly from the hen. Scones were enjoyed by the upper and middle classes, but the ingredients were too costly for the very poorest in Dickens’ England.

2 cups flour (plus ¼ cup for kneading dough)
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ cup butter
¼ cup sugar
2 eggs
½ cup plus 2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 tablespoon grated orange zest
1 cup dried currants, plumped in ¼ cup orange juice*
¼ cup sugar

1. Set the oven rack in the middle position. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Cover a 14-inch by 16-inch baking sheet with foil, shiny side up. Coat the foil with vegetable spray or use a silicone liner.

2. Sift together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

3. Cream butter and sugar in a medium bowl. Combine eggs and 1/2 cup of the heavy cream and add to butter mixture. Add grated orange zest. Add sifted dry ingredients and stir until a soft dough begins to form. Squeeze orange juice from currants and incorporate fruit into dough with your fingers.

4. Place dough on a generously floured surface. Knead gently five times, turning corners of dough toward the center. Pat dough into a 1/2-inch thick circle. Using a floured knife, cut dough into 12 equal wedges. Using a floured wide spatula, transfer each wedge to baking sheet. Brush wedges with the remaining heavy cream and sprinkle with remaining sugar. Bake 12 to 15 minutes, or until tops of scones are lightly brown and bottoms are golden brown. Place baking sheet on a rack and cool about 10 minutes. Serve scones warm with butter and jam. They are best when eaten the day they are made.

*To plump currants in tea, orange juice, or water, bring the liquid to a boil, immerse the raisins, continue to boil for 1 minute and set aside to allow them to absorb the plumping liquid. If needed immediately, place in plastic container and chill in freezer for 10 minutes. If not used the same day, refrigerate and use when needed.

Recipe originally appeared as “Marion A. Carter and M. E. Carter’s Cranberry-Orange Cream Scones” in Heirloom Baking With The Brass Sisters by Marilynn and Sheila Brass, published by Black Dog & Leventhal, Inc. © 2006 Marilynn and Sheila Brass. Photographs copyright © 2006 Andy Ryan.

Check it out at: www.pbs.org/wgbh/masterpiece/dickens/

For more MASTERPIECE Book Club recipes: www.pbs.org/wgbh/masterpiece/bookclub

Tagged as: Books, celebrity, cookbooks, cooking techniques, entertainment, film, food, recipe, Television, TV show

Posted by Tami Yu at 3:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

NY NY! - The major Fashion Weeks have begun - here in New York we have some great coverage, New York favorites on Studio Purpura, threeASFOUR on The Coveted, and some Barbie thoughts on Fashion in My Eyes. Couture Allure dresses the stars in vintage, and if the recession is making you nervous Style Amour talks about what you should do if you get fired from the fashion industry.

For more, go to: independentfashionbloggers.org/2009/02/19/links-a-la-mode-ifb-weekly-roundup-8/

Tagged as: beauty, fashion, fashion designer, fashion show, Lifestyle, makeup tips, NYC, shopping, Style

Posted by Tami Yu at 12:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Love it or hate it, we all like to have some gourmet chocolate on Valentine's Day. Recchiuti Confections has lots of gift ideas in all budget ranges, such as the Extra-Bitter Chocolate Sundae Kit. It includes one jar of the popular Extra-bitter Chocolate Sauce, along with three awesome Fudge Brownies. It's pretty hard to resist this package. I was planning to make a sundae, but ended up noshing on the decadent brownies instead. Oops. Then I just spooned the chocolate sauce straight from the jar. I so need to jog.

Available only once a year, the classic Champagne Truffles are always a fave. With the timeless combo of Schramsberg Blanc de Noirs bubbly and intense dark chocolate, it's the most sophisticated way to say 'I love you.' These truffles have the best champagne flavor, not to mention the smoothest that I've had in a long time.

If you're looking to go all out, the Platinum Collection will do the trick. With 88 pieces of gourmet goodness, it's also 88 ways to show him or her how much you adore them. Some great flavors include: Honeycomb Malt, Cardamom Nougat, Cassis Strata, Burnt Caramel, Lavender Vanilla, Spring Jasmine Tea, Star Anise & Pink Peppercorn, Ginger Heart, Sesame Nougat, Rose Caramel, Bergamot Tea, and Piedmont Hazelnut.

Check out a cool video of them in action: www.recchiuti.com/about.html?id=THi6uAid

Tagged as: artisan, chocolate, chocolate truffles, entertaining, food, gifts, gourmet, holiday, Lifestyle, San Francisco, shopping, valentine

Posted by Tami Yu at 2:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

For all you passionate fans of the super hottie Jonathan Rhys Meyers, here's your chance to catch him in person this week (Fri, Jan. 30). The face of the new Hugo Element, he will be at Macy’s Herald Square (NYC) to promote the launch of their latest men's fragrance.

The modern fragrance defines the urban traveler who draws his life source from the city. Notes include calone, ginger, coriander leaf, and cedarwood. The packaging is meant to represent the oxygen bottle, representing the air element.

Guests who make a $65 purchase of HUGO ELEMENT will get to meet the Tudors star in the flesh (swoon!), and an opportunity to get an autographed fragrance bottle. A great idea for Valentine's Day prezzies for the bf.

Sigh. If only I can jet to NYC in a snap...

WHAT: Jonathan Rhys Myers for HUGO ELEMENT
WHEN: Friday, January 30th @ 5:00pm
WHERE: Macy’s Herald Square
151 West 34th Street, New York City
HUGO Fragrance Counter, Main Floor
212-695-4400

Tagged as: beauty, celebrity, entertainment, Film Stars, fragrance, gifts, holiday, Lifestyle, shopping, special events, valentine

Posted by Tami Yu at 8:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

It's quite amazing how the luxury sex toy market is booming in these times. Even so, it doesn't hurt if you can land one for free! Jimmyjane is having a special giveaway. Now through February 11, you could win a FORM 6 generation 2 vibrator (in a new pink color) for Valentine’s Day.

Just head over to the Jimmyjane Facebook page, become a fan, and leave a comment about one of their favorite products (or your dream product). Good luck!

jimmyjane.com

Tagged as: giveaway, holiday, Lifestyle, Luxury, San Francisco, shopping, valentine, vibrators

Posted by Tami Yu at 12:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Tech Alert!

To all my loyal and techie-oriented readers: Feedburner has moved my blog feed to a new Google server, which might mean that some subscriptions are lost in the process. They say that it should not be affected, but you know how these things go. So if you're not getting regular updates and whatnot, please re-subscribe at:

http://feeds2.feedburner.com/feteafete

Many many thanks!!

Tagged as: blog, feeds, google, Technology

Posted by Tami Yu at 11:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I spent this past week noshing on cheese, sausages, and chocolate at the annual Fancy Food Show in SF, and man was I frazzled. Over 1,500 companies from 35 countries were there to showcase their latest and greatest gourmet items, and I could barely keep my head straight. Here's a quick highlight roundup, of both old and new brands...

I think my top fave was Robert Lambert's new stuff. His Dark Chocolate Cognac Sauce was sublime. His Spiced Crab Apples are from his grandmother's recipe, so you know it's gotta be superb. The Membrillo (quince paste) rivals the Spanish brands, and for the vegans, he has a Coconut Chocolate Sauce that's incredible. The Yuzu syrup was just amazing.

The lavender Agave Dream ice cream was lovely. It almost made me feel less guilty about eating ice cream. Made with agave, this brand is free of GMOs, gluten, preservatives, and corn syrup. Did I also mention that this is truly yummy?

Thankfully, Norwegian flavored water from ganicWater kept me going as I ran around tasting more goodies. I dug their Citric Lemongrass (naturally flavored, of course).

The guys over at FatCat Scones had the fluffiest Peach Passionfruit scones ever! Based in NorCal, they've just launched some new cakes (passionfruit coffee cake), so watch out for their retail launch. I discovered them 5 years ago, and have been a fan since.

As far as teas go, ITO EN had the new and refreshing Oolong Shot, a blue tea that is packed with 171 mg of tea polyphenols. Dilmah offered 100% single estate tea from Ceylon. This fair-trade tea company from Sri Lanka had a cool program that gives back to the local community and environment.

Tagged as: chocolate, drink, food, food & drink, gourmet, green, honey, ice cream, organic, pastries, San Francisco, tea

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I still can't believe that today has come. Welcome, Mr. President Obama! Watch him take his oath of office and deliver his inaugural speech (video below). It's very moving, filling the heart with grace, hope, and perseverance. GObama!

Barack Obama, with his wife Michelle, takes the oath of office as the 44th President of the United States. (Ron Edmonds / AP)

For the fashion divas, Michelle Obama is wearing a golden yellow ensemble by Cuban-born American designer Isabel Toledo.

It's time for us to chose hope over fear.

Full text of his speech: www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/01/20/president-obamas-inaugura_n_159370.html

For other inauguration videos, go here: www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27721638/

Tagged as: Current Affairs, inauguration, Obama, politics, special events, travel, U.S.

Posted by Tami Yu at 9:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I was at the Spencer Day show last night, and had a total blast. The talented singer-songwriter is amazing live and has such a big baritone voice to match his heartfelt lyrics. Why this young performer hasn't gotten mega-famous in the mainstream music arena, I have no idea. He's the next big thing in American contemporary music.

He started out with his peppy "A Better Way" and charmed his way through the act with funny numbers like "Poor Marie" (inspired by Sofia Coppola’s "Marie Antoinette"). The audience loved the lively "Ophelia Underwater." I can't think of a better way to spend a chilly SF evening.

Day will be playing through Sunday 12/14 at Hotel Nikko's Rrazz Room. He's planning a third CD release Vagabond in Spring 2009, but in the meantime, check out his site www.spencerday.com or his MySpace page. He also has a lovely video of his hit "Movie of Your Life" on YouTube.

Tagged as: entertainment, music, music review, performance, San Francisco, San Francisco event, song

Posted by Tami Yu at 10:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Béatrice Amblard (of April in Paris) just launched an exclusive collection of luxury handbags at Bergdorf Goodman. Her ten designs were a result of 25 years of experience as a leather artisan. Amblard has also worked at Hermès for fourteen years on the infamous Kelly bag.

Using centuries-old traditional methods, each one is meticulously handcrafted with the finest leathers from French tanneries (the same ones that also supply to Hermès). Aren't these simply divine?

Handbags range $5,000 to $19,000. The artisan herself will be at Bergdorf again on Dec 19 and 20th to discuss custom designs with you, so check it out!

Bergdorf Goodman
754 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10019

www.bergdorfgoodman.com
www.aprilinparis.us

Tagged as: Accessories, artisan, fashion, fashion design, french, gifts, Handbags, leather, purse, shopping, Stores, Style

Posted by Tami Yu at 2:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Lancôme’s holiday collection, C’est Magnifique, has something for everyone. For the Gothic gal, the Le Vernis Nail Polish in Midnight Glam is a navy blue that’s dark enough for the moody vamp.

For the party gals, check out the Color Design Eye Shadow Quads and the special edition Juicy Tubes (Pretty in Pink, Luminous in Lace, and Showered in Diamonds).

We're doing a giveaway of Le Vernis in Midnight Glam! Email me at: feteafeteswag@gmail.com, and one winner will be chosen at random. Don't forget to include your mailing address and full name. Deadline is Monday, December 1, 11pm PST. U.S. residents only.

(12/2 Update: The lucky winner is Lisa K. from NE! Congrats Lisa!)

www.lancome-usa.com

Tagged as: beauty, cosmetics, gifts, giveaway, holiday, makeup, shopping

Posted by Tami Yu at 11:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fashion lovers need to glide over to the Yves Saint Laurent retrospective at the de Young Museum. Even if you're not in the area I'd suggest a haute couture pilgrimmage to SF. Spanning 40 years (1962 to 2002), the 125+ couture ensembles from the visionary master will knock the Louboutins off any fashionista.

Marina Schiano in Evening Gown. Fall-Winter 1970. © The Estate of Jeanloup Sieff

The dazzling exhibit is quite comprehensive - be prepared to return for a second or third viewing. There are sketches, videos, accessories, and even Lesage embroidery on display. Some pieces evoked the spirit of Chanel, while others were inspired by nature and art (Mondrian, Van Gogh, Picasso, Matisse, etc.)

Cocktail Dress (tribute to Mondrian), Fall-Winter 1965. Foundation Pierre Bergé-Yves Saint Laurent. Photo: Alexandre Guirkinger

With iconic muses like Nan Kempner (SF native, naturally) and Catherine Deneuve for inspiration, Saint Laurent also had a vast interest in foreign culture. Along with inventing a female version of the tuxedo (le smoking), pea coat, pantsuit, and safari jacket, he had collections that drew heavily from the African, Chinese, Russian, and Japanese cultures.

Bridal Gown, Spring-Summer 1999. Bridal wreath, bracelet and anklet bracelet of rose and leaves by Lemarié. Train in silk gazar by Gandini. Model: Laetitia Casta. Courtesy Foundation Pierre Bergé – Yves Saint Laurent.

Aside from his sheer genius, the main thing that touched me is that Saint Laurent was such a romantic poet. He really is a true artist. His extremely sensitive soul, coupled with his lonely imagination, has resulted in one of the most inimitable, prolific, and revered careers in haute couture.

Credit: Andrew Rau; Courtesy of Foundation Pierre Bergé-Yves Saint Laurent.

Shown earlier at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, the de Young will be the only U.S. show. It runs through April 5, 2009.

Golden Gate Park
50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive
San Francisco, CA 94118

www.famsf.org/deyoung

Tagged as: art, celebrity, couture, dress, fashion, fashion design, fashion designer, France, gown, international, Luxury, musuem, shopping, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 7:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

If you are in SF on Wednesday 11/19, I'd run over to the Colleen Quen holiday sample sale. This super rare event will have her outstanding bridal, cocktail, and evening wear at 70% off retail. It's by appointment only on a first-come-first-serve basis. Most of the sizes available are 6-8.

Wednesday November 19, 2008
12:00-7:00p.m.
Atelier LeeQuen
7 Heron Street (off of 8th between Folsom and Harrison)
San Francisco, CA

RSVP through email: colleen@colleenquencouture.com

colleenquencouture.com

Tagged as: artisan, couture, fashion, fashion designer, holiday, sale, San Francisco, shopping, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 12:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Charles Chocolates and Bi-Rite Creamery have teamed up for the ultimate Bay Area sugar addiction. Based on the cult ice cream shop's signature flavors, the three new chocolate bars are gonna create a sweet sensation.

Charles Chocolates has done a fine job of interpreting the Bi-Rite appeal. The Rocky Road is made with fluffy housemade marshmallows, and the Peanut Praline will make the ice cream fans go nuts (pun intended). The Coffee Toffee is made with housemade almond toffee and Ethiopian coffee beans from Ritual Coffee Roasters. Very nice and strong java flavor. Can we say yum?

The bars are a blend of milk and dark chocolate - a clever way to maximize the cocoa flavor without making it a 'dark' bar. To follow the current political climate, I say being a centrist is not bad at all. Made exclusively for Bi-Rite, you can only purchase these at the ice cream retail location for now. I can just imagine the local foodies stampeding to the store now.

To celebrate this launch, there will be a free tasting of these great bars, along with an ice cream sampling of matching flavors:

Bi-Rite Creamery Chocolate Bar Launch Party
Cost: FREE
Saturday, November 15th, 1-5 pm
RSVP at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/45520

Charles Chocolates
6529 Hollis Street, Emeryville, CA
510-652-4412 ext. 311

For newbies, definitely buy the Triple (coated) Chocolate Hazelnuts and Almonds (soooo good!), and the Wine Infused Pate de Fruit. The Mocha Java Bar is great for a buzz...it has a freshly-ground coffee bean taste.

www.charleschocolates.com

Tagged as: artisan, chocolate, chocolate bar, chocolatier, dessert, food, gourmet, ice cream, San Francisco, San Francisco event

Posted by Tami Yu at 8:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

My gourmet food pal Lisa at TuttiFoodie is having a new food-inspired personals ad service (called TuttiPersonals) on her site. It's such a cute idea and a way more original way to date than through the overly used dating sites. Goodbye eHarmony, Match, and speed dating - food is the ultimate bonding factor here!

Some interesting ads to mull over...

- Sultry blue-cheese lover who's been known to enjoy cheap red wine without whining seeks a hot date with a man who can say no to pre-sliced American. appellationsf@gmail.com

- M, handsome, 30, decent kitchen skills seeks F into bread-making (will share yeast with the right woman). goodrye09@gmail.com

- Don't tell me you eat local. I'll just groan at the predictability of it and roll my eyes when you say "I only shop at farmer's markets." Sour persona chef, F, attractive, 30, looking for carnivorous F. flexivore@gmail.com

So give it a whirl! Try a tuttipersonal ad - email lisa@tuttifoodie.com for details. It will run every six weeks—for as long as people are interested in offering up their ads.

Sign up for Lisa's weekly food newsletter at: tuttifoodie.com

Tagged as: dating, food, food & drink, gourmet, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 3:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

I've been a huge Eminence fan for a long time, and this holiday season they're doing their first Holiday Gift Bag and contest giveaway! The cute eco bag comes with an organic fruit smoothie body wash, natural body loofah, and a chance to win a spa getaway to the world famous Mii amo Spa at Enchantment Resort in Sedona, AZ.

Second prize is a relaxing Eminence spa treatment, and third prize is a luxurious gift basket filled with Eminence goodies. These are available through 12/31; contest closes on January 31, 2009.

Call 888-747-6342 for more details or visit: eminenceorganics.com.

Tagged as: beauty, contest, gifts, holiday, Luxury, organic, organic ingredients, shopping, skin care, spa

Posted by Tami Yu at 3:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Travelers to Northern California won't need to go far for a divine epicurean experience. With the 'Dining with the Stars' program, choose your romantic getaway from not one, but three Michelin two-star restaurants: MICHAEL MINA, Cyrus, and The Restaurant at Meadowood.

In celebration of the prestigious 2009 awards, each includes a seasonal tasting menu to match with a decadent overnight stay. SF diners at MICHAEL MINA will have luxurious accommodations at The Westin St. Francis, while Cyrus offers an intimate setting at the Healdsburg Inn. Caviar and bubbly, anyone?

For those lucky enough to dine at The Restaurant at Meadowood, you'll enjoy a cozy cottage and warm fire. Itineraries are customizable and will also feature special in-room amenities. How fun is that?

Dining with the Stars is available Monday-Thursday, January 15, 2009 through April 15, 2009. Reservations can be made by calling Meadowood Napa Valley at (707) 963-3646 or contacting reservations@meadowood.com.

For more info: www.meadowood.com, www.michaelmina.net, and www.cyrusrestaurant.com.

Tagged as: chef, cooking, dinner, food, food & drink, Luxury, napa, restaurant, San Francisco, travel, wine, wine country

Posted by Tami Yu at 11:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I'm really excited to be meeting shu uemura Artistic Director Gina Brooke at the Nov. 1 Atelier Artist event. Beauty junkies should really attend this master class. In this exclusive in-store appearance, Gina will share her celebrity makeup tips and tricks of the trade (she's worked on Madonna, Eva Longoria, Naomi Campbell, Giselle Bundchen, Cindy Crawford, and David Beckham).

This is a great opportunity to learn fabulous makeup techniques for holiday parties! To get an idea on how wonderful this event will be, check out her tips on getting Madonna's Stick and Sweet concert tour look:

STEP 1: Prepare the face
“Beautiful makeup starts with skin.” Prep eyes with the DEPSEA MOISTURE REPLENISHING EYE MASK (to calm puffiness and hydrate). Apply PHYTO BLACK LIFT FIRMING ANTI-WRINKLE CREAM on the whole face. Lastly, apply FACE ARCHITECT REMODELING CREAM FOUNDATION beginning at the arch of your brow down to the middle of your eye, directly onto the middle of the cheekbone. Each time the sun reflects off your skin, it will create the illusion of glowing, dewy, healthy, radiant skin!

STEP 2: Prime the eyelids
Using a KOLINSKY BRUSH 11, apply PRESSED EYE SHADOW in M BEIGE 800 above the eyelids. Blend PRESSED EYE SHADOW IN ME BLACK 990 onto eyelids. Then, use COVER CRAYON in 9YR LIGHT in the inner corner and water line of the eyes to make them appear larger. Madonna is known for her liquid black eyeliner, so for this look, she wears it very dramatically. I apply LIQUID EYELINER at the top and bottom of the eyes as well as on the lid, drawing small lines, almost like scratches, that create an optical illusion of a blackout when blended into the ME BLACK 990 eye shadow. It’s all about the eyes!

STEP 3: Prep the lashes
Use the EYELASH CURLER before applying ULTIMATE EXPRESSION MASCARA beginning at the base and rolling the brush through the tips of lashes. Now here’s the trick to make eyes pop – interweave two pairs of FALSE EYELASHES S217 to create an atmosphere of black around the eye.

STEP 4: Finish off with the lips
Since the focus is on the eyes, use ROUGE UNLIMITED in BG 949 layered with GLOSS UNLIMITED in BG 930N for a soft, natural look.

To get your personalized look with Gina, call 415-395-0953 to reserve your space!

shu uemura
1971 Fillmore Street
San Francisco, CA 94115
415-395-0953

(For those who can't make it, the Japanese Global education team will be at the SF store 11/1-11/3 for a custom 90-minute makeup consult ($100 pre-pay redeemable in products). Space is limited, so book it now!)

www.shuuemura-usa.com

Tagged as: beauty, celebrity, cosmetics, events, eye makeup, eyeliner, lip color, Luxury, makeup, Makeup Artists, San Francisco, shopping, skin care

Posted by Tami Yu at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Here's a neat social gifting site that's also promoting Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Someone Spoil Me's gift guide recommends gifts that donate a portion of proceeds towards breast cancer research. You can send your bff a Denise Richards t-shirt via ShopBop.com (designed by Richards herself, and 50% proceeds go to Breast Cancer Network), or some cute soap from Gianna Rose Atelier.

The site is also doing a free raffle on a pink gold Helen Ficalora Pink Ribbon charm & necklace (value $250-$280).

Not just for the month of October, it's more of a "Think Pink" year-round state of mind. So start gifting your gal pals and educate them on this great cause!

www.someonespoilme.com

Tagged as: body care, celebrity, clothing, gifts, giveaway, Holiday, jewelry, Lifestyle, shopping

Posted by Tami Yu at 12:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

After all the anticipation, Lancôme is finally launching their vibrating Ôscillation mascara on Wednesday, October 22. This innovative mascara has 7,000 oscillations per minute. Talk about mega lash power!

With over 13,000 folks on the waiting list, I'm honored to be one of the chosen bloggers to partner with Lancôme for a mascara giveaway - so enter today!

Email me at: feteafeteswag@gmail.com, and one winner will be chosen at random. Don't forget to include your mailing address and full name. Deadline is Sunday, October 19, 5pm PST. U.S. residents only.

The winner will be announced next week. Good luck!

www.lancome-usa.com

Tagged as: beauty, cosmetics, eye makeup, giveaway, makeup, mascara, shopping

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

Attention all chocoholics, bakers, chefs, and mixologists - Scharffen Berger and TuttiFoodie.com are teaming up for their 2nd annual "Chocolate Adventure Contest." I got the heads up from local foodie goddess Marcia at Tablehopper, and I'm sure you're all fired up about it too!

You must use Scharffen Berger chocolate along with at least one "adventure ingredient." One grand prize winner in each category will win $5,000 and other prizes. As a food celeb factor, you've got John Scharffenberger, Elizabeth Falkner, and Alice Medrich judging the entries.

Enter your winning recipe at: www.chocolateadventurecontest.com, by January 4, 2009.

Tagged as: artisan, chocolate, chocolatier, contest, dessert, food, food & drink

Posted by Tami Yu at 3:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBacks (0)

I found this lovely online boutique called Muito Fina, and it has the most darling things to lust after. I'm putting the Yoana Baraschi Left Bank Portrait Jacket on my wish list for sure. Structured yet feminine, the cute pleats on the front pockets are so cute. Being the practical gal, I like the light tropical viscose for year-round versatility.

The Bianca Nero Silk Charmeuse Bubble Mini is one I'd love for upcoming holiday parties. The embroidered flowers are so pretty. No wonder Hollywood starlets are wearing this designer's frocks. So romantic and chic!

To celebrate Muito Fina's first year anniversary, use the promo code (ONEYEAR20) for a 20% discount! Not a bad deal at all.

www.muitofina.com

Tagged as: clothing, dress, fashion, fashion design, fashion designer, Luxury, shopping

Posted by Tami Yu at 2:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and fellow blog goddess Stella from Well Above Average has posted a fab blog on all the goodies you can get to support this great cause. I totally dig the Smashbox Pink Power eye & lip kit. Another excuse to reap more karma points and play with more makeup...

www.wellaboveaverage.com/2008/10/think-pink-october-is-national-breast.html

Tagged as: cosmetics, eyeshadow, health, lip color, makeup, shopping, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 2:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

SF Shopping Alert!
Get your holiday shopping on (it's never too early) or treat yourself to a fun gift at the darling Limonaia. Starting today through Fri 9/19, the Russian Hill boutique is celebrating its one-year anniversary with a sale! All items are 10% off.

Stock up on cute Moon Alley candles, retro headbands, ceramics, or the Maruca handbags (woven in the US). Lots of cute things to drool over.

Limonaia
Tuesday - Sunday, 11am. - 7pm.
1506 Vallejo @ Polk
San Francisco, CA 94109
415-440-9700
www.shoplimonaia.com

Tagged as: gifts, holiday, Lifestyle, sale, San Francisco, shopping

Posted by Tami Yu at 10:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I ran across Carolina Herrera's Spring 2009 collection from NYFW at Second City Style, and there are tons of gorgeous, feminine frocks. Lots of romantic ruffles, bright colors, and beautiful silhouettes. Here's a couple images to drool at from the runway:

The floral design on this piece reminds me of Audrey Hepburn's Givenchy gown in Sabrina:

Photo credit: WireImage

Tagged as: clothing, dress, fashion, fashion designer, fashion show, gown, New York Fashion Week, spring

Posted by Tami Yu at 2:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

It's National Bourbon Heritage Month! Celebrate this month with tasty Bourbon roasted oysters and a nice Manhattan from Knob Creek. Check out the following recipes:

Knob Creek Manhattan

2 parts Knob Creek Bourbon
1 part sweet vermouth

Shake ingredients and serve with a cherry.

Knob Creek® Bourbon Roasted Oysters

4 Blue Point oysters, with shells
½ cup Knob Creek® Bourbon
1 teas. light brown sugar
1 pinch salt
1 pinch ground black pepper
Rock salt
Spicy Bacon Butter (see below recipe)

One day before serving:
Shuck the oysters, saving the shells (they should be washed thoroughly after shucking). To make marinade, combine all other ingredients, stirring until brown sugar is dissolved. Pour marinade over oysters and refrigerate overnight (be sure dish is well sealed and that oysters are covered by marinade).

Next day:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Pour rock salt onto baking dish (the salt will help keep oyster shells upright during baking). Place four shells on top of the salt and put one marinated oyster into each shell. Roast in oven for 8 to 10 minutes, until plump. Transfer to serving plate, garnish each with a small piece of Spicy Bacon Butter and serve immediately.

Yield: One serving

Serving tip: Place a layer of shredded cabbage on the bottom of each serving plate – it adds color to the plate while holding the oyster shells in position.

Spicy Bacon Butter

¼ lb. butter (1 stick), softened
1/8 cup bacon, minced
¾ teas. garlic, minced
¾ teas. shallot, minced
¾ teas. kosher salt
¾ teas. black pepper
¼ teas. crush red pepper
1½ teas. parsley, chopped

Blend all ingredients in mixer until thoroughly combined. Chill in refrigerator until needed.

(Oyster and Spicy Bacon Butter recipes courtesy of McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurant)

www.knobcreek.com

Tagged as: bourbon, cocktail recipe, cooking, drink, food, food & drink, Liquor and Spirits, Oysters, recipes, seafood

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

Collaborating with Derek Lam for his New York Fashion Week's Spring '09 collection (a big envious sigh to those who are lucky enough to see it today), Kiehl's just launched a fabulous Limited Edition Travel Kit designed by the fashion designer. This jet-setting kit contains Lam’s favorite grooming essentials in a travel size (Creme de Corps, Creme de Corps Nurturing Body Washing Cream, Amino Acid Shampoo, Formula 133 and Lip Balm #1).

Inspired by his own world travels and Kiehl's elegant simplicity, Lam wanted to create a streamlined and sophisticated travel accessory. Luxurious yet efficient, it also has a custom inside pocket to hold his fave in-flight beauty aid – Lip Balm #1.

Available at www.Kiehls.com and select stores.

Tagged as: beauty, body wash, Derek Lam, fashion, fashion designer, lotion, New York Fashion Week, shampoo, skin care

Posted by Tami Yu at 10:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Sassy City Chicks Fashion Bash is returning to SF for a night of sassy savings! This is something you can't miss - up to 80% off your fave designer frocks. Shopped out? Indulge in cocktails, a spa treat, or a makeover at the Benefit Cosmetics Lounge while you take a breather. This is a great pre-holiday event, avoiding the crazy crowds at the malls.

Friday, September 26th
5pm-10pm
Cathedral Hill Hotel
2-for-1 advance tickets ($25)
(Advance ticket holders will get a holiday gift bag from Benefit Cosmetics and Frederick’s of Hollywood.)

Best of all, we're giving away 10 pairs of VIP tickets for you and your girlfriend. Just send an email to: Info@SassyCityChicks.com with "SF Raffle" in the subject line, and you will be entered in the raffle!

Participating vendors (partial listing-more to come each week):

Benefit Cosmetics
DVF
Marc Jacobs
Juicy Couture
Splendid
Hudson Jeans
Frankie B Jeans
Good Looking Clothing
Apsara Collection
Ofina
Lil Fishy
Jacqui Chazen Designs
S Factor

For more info, check out: www.sassycitychicks.com/events_sf_fall08.php

Tagged as: clothing, dress, fashion, purse, San Francisco, shopping, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 12:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Looking for a great shopping bargain? Blue Dot Boutique Sale is coming soon, with crazy bargains from San Francisco's best boutiques.

Participating stores include: Canvas, Dylan, Bryan Lee, Nicolette, Red Dot, The Firm, Iniam, Deliciouz, Bread & Jam, Bryna Nicole, Flaunt, Infiniti, August, Edge, McMullen, Ciao Ragazzi, Helene de Natalio, Jonathan-Kaye, Candystore, Romi Boutique, Sarah Shaw, Bellies N Babies, Mill Valley Baby & Kids Co., Goodnite Moon, Honeys & Heroes, Dixie Park...and more!

Sat. Aug. 23, 10 a.m.-12 p.m./VIP pre-shop $25
12 p.m.-5 p.m./gen'l adm $15.
Sun. Aug. 24, 11 a.m.-4 p.m./$15.
Fort Mason @ Herbst Pavilion

Visit www.bluedotboutiquesale.com for complete store list, more details, and to purchase advance discounted tickets.

-Tami

Tagged as: fashion, Northern California, sale, San Francisco, shopping, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 2:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

For all you NorCal wedding belles that haven't found the perfect venue (and the oh-so-important vendors), check out Fanfare's “Summer Wedding Soirée" at the gorgeous Kohl Mansion. Sip some bubbly as you peruse the talents of wedding pros... nibble on some tasty savories and desserts while you enjoy the heavenly sounds of harpist Anna Mendieta. Everything you need for a fairytale wedding will be at your fingertips.

The fun part of the evening will be learning choreographer Cynthia Glinka’s “tips and tricks” on the dance floor. Bridesmaid gowns from Vera Wang, Badgley Mischka, Amsale, Jim Hjelm, etc will be showcased, and MAC Cosmetics will offer makeup tips for the bridal party. Guests are also eligible to win a Romantic Two-Island Hawaiian Vacation (prize value of $3,266).

Thursday, August 14, 2008
6:30 pm

Kohl Mansion
2750 Adeline Drive
Burlingame, CA

Admission: $20 per person
RSVP by August 11
650.873.8488

www.fanfareweddings.com

-Tami

Tagged as: bridal, events, music, Northern California, special events, wedding

Posted by Tami Yu at 10:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

We're ushering in a new era of ultimate mascaras! Lancome is having a sneak preview of their new Oscillation vibrating (that's right, vibrating) mascara for ONE day only (Thursday, July 31). The battery-operated brush provides 7,000 micro-oscillations per minute, wrapping lashes up to 360 degrees. Whoa.

It will not be available again until the fall, so first come, first serve. The limited first-edition supply will be available on Lancome-usa.com and Sephora.com, as well as select Macy's, Lancome boutiques and other stores.

-Tami

Tagged as: cosmetics, makeup, mascara, shopping

Posted by Tami Yu at 11:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

Northern California is home to fabulous food and wine, and this year's Vintage Affaire showcases some of the region's brightest chefs and wineries. The 26th annual wine auction will benefit Palo Alto's Vista Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Held at a private estate, this year's extravaganza will feature a great silent auction, raffle (Tiffany & Co. prizes!), dinner, and a live auction hosted by famed wine auctioneer Fritz Hatton.

The silent auction will feature six local chefs (including a two-star Michelin chef) offering appetizers from their repertoire. They will be matched with a venerable list of pouring vintners. Talk about decadence to the 10th power!

Featured Guest Chefs:

Christopher Kostow at Meadowood, Napa Valley
Cal Stamenov, Marinus at Bernardus Lodge in Carmel Valley
Xavier Salomon, Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay
Alessandro Cartumini, Quattro at the Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley
Daniel Patino, Michael Mina's Arcadia, San Jose
Robert Holt, Cetrella, Half Moon Bay

Saturday, July 19
Los Altos Hills, CA
Silent auction: 3-5 p.m.
Live auction and dinner follows

Tickets are available at www.vintageaffaire.org or call (650) 858-0202.

-Tami

Tagged as: chef, food & drink, Northern California, special events, Wine

Posted by Tami Yu at 10:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Here's your last chance to win a trip for two to Mexico! Play the Meet Me in Mexico contest - head on over to Glam.com and guess the destination in the photo for your chance to win!

The correct answer will enter you in a pool, and a winner will be chosen at random. So what are you waiting for? Good luck!!



-Tami

Tagged as: contest, international, special events, travel, vacation

Posted by Tami Yu at 10:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Check out The Mission Statement's Block Party & Fashion Show! The new co-op boutique features cool and edgy threads from emerging SF designers.

Music by Bay Area DJ will provide the grooves as you watch a fashion show presented by the following designers: Colleen Mauer, culture consumer, estrella tadeo, Gretchen Walker, Honey McMoney, Joshu + Vela, Juv Essentials, lali, oda, Vanessa Gade, and yugala.

With Guest Designers:
Minnie Wilde
Zoe Bikini
K Tuff

Raffle prizes will be given out all day, with the grand prize of a style makeover by the Mission Statement crew.

Sunday, June 22, 2008
Lexington Street, San Francisco (between 18th and Sycamore)
3pm - 7pm

www.themissionstatementsf.com

-Tami

Tagged as: fashion, fashion design, fashion designer, music, San Francisco, San Francisco event

Posted by Tami Yu at 7:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

A pioneer in the international beauty realm, Shu Uemura was more than just an artist. His visionary methods changed the way we thought about makeup art, opening up a new world that successfully blended art, beauty, fashion, science, and nature into each product. From the iconic eyelash curler to the wildly popular cleansing oils (and don't forget those gorgeous lashes and stellar makeup brushes!), there is so much to be remembered from this prolific and legendary master.

As a young man, Uemura knew he wanted to create beauty. As the only male student at the Tokyo Beauty Academy, he soon rose above other aspiring artists by being chosen to work on Joe Butterfly in 1955, and soon became the darling amongst Hollywood's elite. Uemura elevated beauty to an art form, and stars like Shirley MacLaine and Frank Sinatra were loyal fans.

Uemura's meteoric rise continued to shine. He returned to Japan in 1965 and established the Shu Uemura Make-up Institute, the first Hollywood-style makeup studio in Japan. In 1968, he launched the first Mode Make-up look (the revolutionary concept of using makeup design as an artistic expression) and became the beauty industry's big sensation. Subsequently he created an in-house line of skincare, and opened his first Beauty Boutique in 1983. Today, the Shu Uemura art has expanded to Paris, London, Milan, Taipei, New York, Los Angeles, Boston, and San Francisco.

To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the first Tokyo Beauty Boutique opening, this year's special HANA-BI limited edition collection features the dynamic shape of fireworks in the artwork. Designed by noted graphic designer Gwenael Nicolas, the fireworks are a burst of spontaneous beauty that represents this special occasion.

Inspired by three elements of nature (earth, flower, and water), the collection features brilliant eyeshadow palettes offering earthy, bright, and cool shades to mix and match to your heart's content. I love the Fleur de Rose palette. You can definitely do a smoky eye, or opt for more neutral looks with the lighter colors. The Shimmer Liquid Eyeliner (long-lasting formula) compliments the pretty hues.

Three natural origin fragrances formulated with Depsea Water are also showcased: Fleur de Rose (Ylang Ylang & Turkish Rose), Fleur de Source (Coriander, Papyrus & Basil), and Fleur de Terre (Rosemary & Bergamot).

www.shuuemura-usa.com

Happy birthday, Mr. Uemura. You will be in our hearts forever.

-Tami

Tagged as: cosmetics, eyeshadow, fragrance, limited edition, makeup, Makeup Artists, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 1:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Want to win a trip for two to Mexico? We know you do! Play the Meet Me in Mexico contest - head on over to Glam.com and guess the destination in the photo for your chance to win! Then return next week where a new photo will be posted for an additional chance to win.

Each correct answer from both weeks will enter you in a pool, and a winner will be chosen at random at the end of the contest. So what are you waiting for? Good luck!!



-Tami

Tagged as: contest, international, travel, vacation

Posted by Tami Yu at 7:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Want to win a trip for two to Mexico? Play the Meet Me in Mexico contest - head on over to Glam.com and guess the destination in the photo for your chance to win! Then return each week where a new photo will be posted for additional chances to win.

Each correct answer from every week will enter you in a pool, and a winner will be chosen at random at the end of the contest. So what are you waiting for? Good luck!!



-Tami

Tagged as: contest, holiday, travel, vacation

Posted by Tami Yu at 9:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Calling all fashion divas - Do you have what it takes to become the next face of fashion?

Enter in the VMAGAZINE.COM exclusive model search and a panel of judges may select you to win a three-year contract with Supreme Model Management and a starring role in a fashion story in an upcoming issue of VMAGAZINE.COM.

V A Model! winner Amanda Laine shot to supermodel stardom, walked the Fall 2008 runways of Prada, Balenciaga, Miu Miu, Givenchy, and Louis Vuitton, and took a turn in front of the camera for Mario Testino and Willy Vanderperre. Now it's your turn!

Readers of VMAGAZINE.COM can select a winner of their own. Vote each day for your favorite face and have a hand in selecting the V A Model! Popular Vote Winner, who will be the star of her very own vmagazine.com fashion story.

Enter now and vote HERE.

-Tami

Tagged as: beauty, contest, fashion, fashion design, model

Posted by Tami Yu at 12:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Want to win a trip for two to Mexico? Of course you do! Play the Meet Me in Mexico contest - head on over to Glam.com and guess the destination in the photo for your chance to win! Then return each week where a new photo will be posted for additional chances to win.

Each correct answer from every week will enter you in a pool, and a winner will be chosen at random at the end of the contest. The contest starts right now, so what are you waiting for? Good luck!!



-Tami

Tagged as: contest, holiday, travel, vacation

Posted by Tami Yu at 12:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Attention all Wong Kar Wai & "My Blueberry Nights" movie fans!!

fête à fête is doing a fun giveaway of the fabulous "My Blueberry Nights" motion picture soundtrack, along with the official movie poster. The music is amazing - it has a great sultry new song ('The Story') written specifically for the movie by Norah Jones, and many other powerhouse tracks from Cat Power, Ry Cooder, Otis Redding, Mavis Staples, Cassandra Wilson, and more.

The first few readers to correctly answer the following question will win either of the prizes mentioned above: Which Wong Kar Wai film featured the music of both Shigeru Umebayashi and Peter Raben?

Send your answer to: feteafeteswag@gmail.com
Alas, this contest is for U.S. readers only, sorry!

Check out the soundtrack here:
http://www.myspace.com/myblueberrynightssoundtrack

For my film review, click here:
http://feteafete.com/blog/film/my_blueberry_nights/

Good luck!

Tami

Tagged as: celebrity, contest, film, movie, movie soundtrack, music

Posted by Tami Yu at 5:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

Here are a few more film reviews for the upcoming San Francisco International Film Festival, which starts tomorrow through May 8:

Solitary Fragments (Spain) is a close examination of family dynamics within the circle of human relations. Director Jaime Rosales weaves a natural and unbiased study of people struggling with everyday challenges while Yasuhiro Ozu's creative use of the split screen pieces the intersecting stories together.

Single mother Adela (Sonia Almarcha) leaves her provincial town in search of a better life in Madrid with her infant son. Struggling with a bland job, she moves in with Carlos (Lluís Villanueva) and Inés (Miriam Correa). The roommates become friends and open up to each other about their personal lives over shared meals. Inés’s mother Antonia (Petra Martínez) soon becomes an indirect acquaintance. A widow with three daughters, Antonia is literally the rock in the family. Dealing with one daughter's cancer prognosis and manipulated by another to help supplement her selfish ambitions, the normalcy of daily life unexpectedly ends for these these women when tragic events occur. The survivors have to find the strength to carry on, and the viewer is strongly drawn to the well-being of each character. I liked how certain silent scenes reflected the inner strength of the main characters. Lonliness, grief, and isolation surround them like an invisible wall yet they manage to maintain their dignity as life goes on, with or without them.

Click here to watch the trailer (Click on "Watch" link on the lower right corner of the movie still).

Secret (Taiwan) is a beautifully shot teen romance. Taiwanese pop artist Jay Chou built some acting chops in Zhang Yimou’s "Curse of the Golden Flower" and he refined his skill with "Secret." Directing his own script, Chou plays Yeh Hsiang-Lun, an extremely gifted music student entering a prestigious academy. Innocent flirtations abound amongst students and the days are filled with lectures, sports, hi-jinks, and “piano battles”.

One day in an old music room, Lun encounters Lu Hsiao-Yu (Kwai Lun-mei) playing an alluring tune. This melody and the coquettish Yu begin to haunt Lun day and night. Eventually Lun discovers a photograph of Yu with his father (the matchless Anthony Wong), and the plot rises to a very dramatic and supernatural turn. Delicate and sweetly mysterious, Yu is the film’s emotional center as she and Lun performs their magical symphony for all time.

Click here to watch the trailer (Click on "Watch" link on the lower right corner of the movie still).

Just Like Home (Denmark) is a wry comedy about trust and community within a small Danish town. Filled with eccentrics, the characters share their angst and loneliness, including a woman on the lam (Ann Eleanora Jørgensen), an angry pill-popper dealing with his childhood (Peter Gantzler), a stuffy poet (Peter Hesse Overgaard), and an optimistic civil servant (Bodil Jørgensen) with a shaky hold on her job.

Director Lone Scherfig does a fine job of painting a tableau of a conservative society as the residents struggle with the rumor of a male streaker in their midst. A local pharmacist opens up an anonymous hotline to find the culprit and calamity ensues as the townsfolk use it to air their grievances. Despite their initial misgivings, the hotline volunteers learn to find their voice, help each other, and heal the community. If you've seen "Italian for Beginners," you will want to check this out.

For tickets and information: go to www.sffs.org or call 925.866.9559

See you at the film fest!

Tami

Tagged as: celebrity, film, Film Festival, Film Stars, movie, San Francisco, San Francisco event

Posted by Tami Yu at 5:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Film lovers will have a lot of wonderful screenings to explore at the upcoming 51st San Francisco International Film Festival. The 15-day extravaganza will not only present nearly 200 films from 49 countries, but it will also feature the work of 39 women directors. Opening on April 24 with Catherine Breillat's "The Last Mistress," the festival will close May 8 with the West Coast premiere of "Gonzo: The Life and Work of Hunter S. Thompson." Award honorees include Maria Bello of "The Yellow Handkerchief" (Peter J. Owens Award), Jason Lee, and Rose McGowan (both for Midnight Awards).

Here are a few select reviews from the festival:

"Shadows in the Palace" (Korea) is part lavish historical drama, part murder mystery set during Korea’s Chosun era. Totally entertaining with non-stop plot twists (for the squeamish folks, there will be a few gory torture scenes), the film is a solid rendition of Korean palace intrigue and the complex power struggles amongst the court maids, imperial concubine and the empress.

The smell of constant fear permeates the palace in everyone's effort to win the emperor's favor. Rigid court rules strip off the spirit of the maids as they work within the thick confines of the palace. After one of the maids is found dead, female court doctor Chun-ryung suspects foul play and decides to expose the murderer. Risking her position and her life, she soon digs up an ugly mess of deception as the battle for ultimate power unfolds. The acting is well done, as well as the costume research and set design, but the special effects are a bit too dramatic for Western viewers.

"In the City of Sylvia" (Spain) presents the idea of possible romance as a young romantic (Xavier Lafitte) searches for Sylvia, the would-be lover he met from several years before. Beautifully set in Strasbourg with gorgeous-looking stars, Lafitte resembles a version of Gael Garcia Bernal, while gamine Pilar López de Ayala steals the limelight. The film is a simple pleasure to gaze at. Director José Luis Guerín encourages the viewer to engage themselves to sound and light, paring down the dialogue significantly. The sense of city life is heightened, with the everyday sound of locals strolling, students chatting, and the sound of a tram ambling around the winding streets.

"Glasses" (Japan) is a zen jewel of a story, about an uptight teacher visiting an idyllic island retreat. Upon arrival at the Hamada Inn, Taeko (Satomo Kobayashi) is subjected to the peculiar business habits of the owner (Ken Mitsuishi) because he doesn't want too many guests. Fellow guest Sakura (Masako Motai) leads the townspeople through daily “merci exercises” and all the guests practice 'twilighting' in the evenings.

Through the seemingly strange practices of the local inhabitants, Taeko learns to let go literally and figuratively, changing in small degrees with each passing day at the beach. Western audiences might not be used to the quiet pace of Naoko Ogigami's direction, but this is a great example of how in slowing down one's life, one might actually see the gems within.

More film reviews to come - stay tuned!

For tickets and information: go to www.sffs.org or call 925.866.9559

See you at the film fest!

Tami

Tagged as: celebrity, Film, Film Festival, Film Stars, international, movie, San Francisco, San Francisco event

Posted by Tami Yu at 5:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Choco Alert!

Cacao fanatics all over the Bay Area are excited about the upcoming 2nd Annual San Francisco International Chocolate Salon, and we know why. Chocolate tastings, demos and presentations will be presented all day long. As if that isn't enough decadent indulging, there will also be wine tastings to pair with your sweet treats.

Some of the notable artisan participants include: NEWTREE Gourmet Belgian Chocolate, Coco-luxe Confections, Guittard, San Francisco Toffee Company, Christopher Elbow Artisanal Chocolate, Poco Dolce, Charles Chocolates, Amano Artisan Chocolate, Chuao Chocolatier, Schoggi, Scharffen Berger Chocolate Maker, Vermeer Dutch Chocolate Cream Liqueur, Silver Stone Wines, Sol Rouge Winery, and XOX Truffles.

April 13, 2008
10:00am - 6:00pm, Sunday
Fort Mason Conference Center
San Francisco

www.SFChocolateSalon.com

See you at the choco salon!

Tami

Tagged as: chocolate, chocolatier, confection, dessert, food & drink, Gourmet and Gourmand, San Francisco, San Francisco event, wine

Posted by Tami Yu at 6:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

Learn how to make the famous Chocolate Orbit Cake with John Scharffenberger (co-founder of Scharffen Berger) at the free Williams-Sonoma chocolate demo. John will also be signing copies of his cookbook, The Essence of Chocolate during the baking demo. It's a great book - I love the recipes in it, so grab a copy and try it out for yourself!

Wednesday, February 13
4pm
Williams-Sonoma
Union Square
340 Post Street
San Francisco, CA
415-362-9450

-Tami

Tagged as: chocolate, chocolate cake, cookbook, food, food demos, San Francisco, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 9:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Starting today, the fourth color in the Lancôme Pout-à-Porter lipstick series makes its anticipated debut on lancome-usa.com. Previous colors were created for fashion designers Behnaz Sarafpour, Proenza Schouler, and Peter Som.

The Color Fever Shine Lipstick in Pixel Pink is a pretty sheer raspberry shade created by emerging designer Thakoon and celebrity makeup artist Gucci Westman for his Fall 2008 show at New York Fashion Week. Get it while it's available on lancome-usa.com or on March 1st at Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman and Lancôme’s five U.S. boutiques.

-Tami

Tagged as: clothing, cosmetics, fashion, fashion design, fashion designer, fashion show, makeup, Makeup Artists, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 8:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

If you're in the NYC area during Valentine's Day weekend, don't miss the special dessert tasting from the new Dessert Studio at Chocolat Michel Cluizel. The daring and 'experimental' menu by Chef Will Goldfarb will consist of a 2-course dessert tasting, including a half bottle of champagne and chocolate bonbons. To give you an idea of the exciting desserts, the chef has featured a White Chocolate Gelato with Ligurian Olive Oil and Smoked Sea Salt.

Reservations: 212-477-7335

www.dessertstudio.com

-Tami

Tagged as: chef, Chefs and Confectioners, chocolate, chocolatier, dessert, holiday, pastry art, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Local lovebirds in SF can celebrate Valentine's Day with the “Spin the Bottle” event at the XYZ Bar at W San Francisco. Co-hosted by Jimmyjane, the flirty event will let participants play the exclusive W Hotels + Jimmyjane SPIN ME game, which includes many provocative and racy adventure games.

Spin the Bottle Event
XYZ Bar at W San Francisco
181 Third Street
Thursday, February 14, 2008
6pm - 8pm

Guests will also be able to enjoy Valentine cocktails, such as the ones below:

ROSE PETAL

1 ½ oz Finlandia Cranberry vodka
¾ oz Cointreau Liqueur
1 oz fresh lemon juice
Float of Champagne
Method: shaken and served up. Finished with a champagne float
Garnish: sugared rim

RASPBERY TRUFFLE

1½ oz Stolichnaya Razberi Vodka
¾ oz DeKuyper light Crème de Cacao
½ oz Chambord Liqueur
Method: shake Vodka and Crème de Cacao and serve up. Float Chambord
Garnish: a cocoa rim

See you at the XYZ!

Tami

Tagged as: cocktail recipe, cocktails, holiday, recipe, San Francisco, San Francisco event, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 4:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

San Franciscan chocophiles will be eager to check out the Culinary Muse's informative and fun chocolate tasting at the Scharffen Berger store (SF Ferry Building) during the fifth annual “FOOD FROM THE HEART” Slow Food benefit on Friday, Febrauary 8. From 5:00-8:00 p.m. the public will be able to peruse through many tasty hors d’oeuvres ($2 - $4 per taste) and wine tastings ($6 per glass). This is a great chance to load up on the Valentine's gifts. There will also be music and tango dancing! That will sure get your heart fired up for some amour!

For more info, check out www.culinarymuse.com/2008/01/food-from-the-h.html

-Tami

Tagged as: chocolate, events, food, gifts, Holiday, San Francisco, San Francisco event, shopping

Posted by Tami Yu at 5:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

My friends have raved about The Kin for a while, and I finally got to listen to their recent album release 'Rise & Fall'. Not only are the Koren brothers (Isaac and Thorry) enticing eye candy, their gorgeous vocals blend rather perfectly within each song. I especially liked the catchy 'Romeo', along with the lovely storytelling behind 'Abraham'. I tend to be drawn towards the non-epic songs, since they really highlight the beautiful songwriting and amazing melodies. In a world filled with overplayed commecial acts, this is an indie group to keep an eye on.

Check out their upcoming tour dates below:

Feb 11 – Club Infinity in Buffalo, NY
Feb 12 – Harper’s Ferry in Boston, MA
Feb 13 – Highline Ballroom in New York, NY
Feb 14 – State Theatre in Falls Church, VA
Feb 15 – The Khyber in Philadelphia, PA
Feb 16 – 8 x 10 Club in Baltimore, MD

www.thekin.com
www.myspace.com/thekin

-Tami

Tagged as: album, concert, music, music review, performance

Posted by Tami Yu at 8:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Get the latest updates on the Golden Globe Awards coverage from TV Guide! The 65th annual awards show will be abuzz with celebrity fashion, gossip, and much more, so check out the video below...

See you at the awards show,

Tami

Tagged as: celebrity, fashion, film, Film Stars, show, Television

Posted by Tami Yu at 2:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fashion Contest Alert!

My dear friend Stevie is having a fabulous contest on her blog www.LA-Story.com, and you get to show the world how glam you really are! Submit your photos online to Brickfish.com and tell all your friends to vote for you. It's that easy!

The person with the most chic photo will win some pretty sweet Marc Jacobs accessories (leather handbag, cashmere glove/hat set) that retails for almost $1 K. The most viral entry (the person who has gotten the most views – and spread the word on the net) wins a $250 scholarship or cash. Not bad for just submitting your photos.

For contest rules and info:

www.la-story.com/events/lastorycom_wants_to_see_your_chic_fashionable_selv/

-Tami

Tagged as: clothing, fashion, fashion design, Handbags, Shopping, Style

Posted by Tami Yu at 12:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Special Beauty Event Alert!!

Come meet Gina Brooke, Artistic Director of shu uemura at this special Atelier Artist event! As a sought-after celebrity makeup artist to the stars (Madonna, Gisele Bundchen, Eva Longoria, Cindy Crawford), Gina will be at the SF boutique for one day only to create a new custom look for you.

This is truly a rare opportunity to learn a few industry makeup tricks from the very best authority in beauty and skin care. You can also check out her great Muse holiday collection for more inspiring holiday looks!

Schedule your appointment today by calling 415-395-0953.

Friday, December 28
11am - 7pm
shu uemura SF boutique
1971 Fillmore Street
San Francisco, CA 94115

www.shuuemura-usa.com

-Tami

Tagged as: blush, cosmetics, events, eyeshadow, false eyelashes, lip color, lip gloss, lipstick, makeup, Northern California, San Francisco, San Francisco event, skin care, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 7:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Holiday Shopping Alert!!

Shu Uemura is having a FRIENDS AND FAMILY SALE starting tomorrow 12/13 - save 20% off all items on their website! Just enter the promotion code HOLIDAY07 at checkout (www.shuuemura-usa.com)! Don't miss this great opportunity - stock up on your favorite eyeshadows, the legendary facial cleansing oils, fabulous lashes, and the new pretty lip glosses!

This great online sale is only valid 12:01am EST on Thursday, December 13th through 11:59pm EST on Monday, December 17th (offer is NOT valid on the purchase of gift certificates, taxes, shipping & handling, and in shu uemura boutiques).

Best of all, FREE shipping is available on purchases over $75! Just register online - when you spend over $75, your shipping is on the house. You will also receive advance notice of new product launches, get a shorter check-out process, and all exclusive online promotions (deluxe samples, product offers, in-store events, etc.).

www.shuuemura-usa.com

See you at the makeup counter!

Tami

Tagged as: Cleanser, cosmetics, eyeshadow, holiday, limited edition makeup, lip gloss, lipstick, makeup

Posted by Tami Yu at 7:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fans of classic cocktails will appreciate the book release of Wings of Cherubs. Written by Guillermo Toro-Lira, the historical narrative reveals the secrets of the Pisco Punch, the popular concoction (made with Peruvian Pisco brandy) that originated in early 1900s San Francisco. History buffs will enjoy the rare historical anecdotes of SF, which ultimately features the famous drink recipe.

Cantina Bar
580 Sutter Street at Mason (next to Hotel Rex)
Monday December 3, @ 7 p.m.

Free and open to the public; complimentary appetizers and Pisco Punch will be served.
The author will read from his new book, with a Q&A to follow. Signed copies of the book will be available for purchase.

www.piscopunch.com

-Tami

Tagged as: Books, cocktail, drinks, history, liquor, local events, recipes, San Francisco, San Francisco event, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 5:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

SF Holiday Shopping Alert!

Shopaholics in the know will be anticipating San Francisco's holiday shopping event of the year - Appel & Frank's Stockings & Stilettos event. Featuring over 70 emerging designers from the Bay Area, the shopping extravaganza will showcase fabulous gift ideas (unique handbags, hand-crafted jewelry, sassy fashion labels, baby apparel, etc.) at special holiday prices. Shoppers can also take a break from perusing gifts to enjoy spa treatments by Kamalaspa, while enjoying a complimentary all-natural sake2me cocktail.

Thursday, December 6 from 5 to 9 p.m.
Regency Center in San Francisco
(1270 Sutter Street @ Van Ness)

Tickets are 2 for $15 if purchased online in advance, or $10 each at the door. The first 300 guests to buy tickets online at www.appelandfrank.com are guaranteed a gift bag filled with fabulous products and offers from:

Attune Probiotic Wellness Bars
Azalea
Commandos
Hollywood Fashion Tape
Kamalaspa
Kiss Products, Inc.
Kitsch Kitchen
popchips
sake2me
7X7SF.COM
Sheila Kelly's S Factor
Sweet Cosmo Cosmetics
TrendyTidbits.com

A portion of the event proceeds will benefit Friends of the Urban Forest (FUF), a non-profit committed to the belief that trees are a critical element of a livable, urban environment (www.fuf.net).

Visit www.appelandfrank.com to purchase tickets.

-Tami

Tagged as: Accessories, beauty, events, fashion, gifts, holiday, jewelry, San Francisco, San Francisco event, Shopping

Posted by Tami Yu at 11:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chocolate lovers in the NYC area will be flocking to the 10th annual Chocolate Show , a three day bonanza devoted entirely to, well - chocolate! This is guaranteed to give your sweet tooth a run for your money as you explore the 40,000 square feet venue filled with all sorts of chocolate goodness.

The Chocolate Show will kick off with the 2007 Haute Chocolate Couture Collection, showcasing top fashion designers (Nicole Romano, Heidi Weisel, Reem Akra, Irina Shabayeva) in partnership with accomplished pastry chefs and chocolatiers (Dominique Ansel, Martin Howard, and Michelle Tampakis).

Along with the endless chocolate demos and tastings, young chocophiles can delight in special activities in the KidZone. Still need more choco stimulation? Head over to the Chocolate Lounge and indulge in decadent chocolate cocktails created by top mixologists. There will also be book signings with new releases from top pastry chefs.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9 TO SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2007

Metropolitan Pavillion & Altman Building, 125 West 18th Street

Opening Night Preview: Chocolate Fashion Show
Thursday, November 8th 6:30-10:30pm

Friday, November 9: 11am to 9pm
Saturday, November 10: 10am to 8pm
Sunday, November 11: 10am to 7pm

Tickets ($28) are available online at Ticketmaster.com.

www.chocolateshow.com

Tagged as: artisans, chef, chocolate, chocolate show, chocolatier, drink, events, fashion designer, fashion show, festival, food, food demos, NYC, pastry chef, show, tastings

Posted by Tami Yu at 3:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Kick off the Fall and Halloween season with the 37th Annual Half Moon Bay Arts & Pumpkin Festival this weekend (October 13 & 14). There will be tons of fun things to check out with family and friends, such as harvest-inspired crafts, home-style food, pumpkin beer, a titanic weigh-off of champion pumpkins, and a pie-eating contest.

Kids will love the Great Pumpkin Parade, costume contest and the bone-chilling haunted house. As if that's not enough for you, there will also be a pancake breakfast and a 5K & 10K run/walk. For the music folks, there will be two stages of entertainment including the Unauthorized Rolling Stones, local favorites The Fabulous CruiseTones, and legendary electric blues guitarist Chris Cobb.

The event is free and open to the public:

On Main Street
between Miramontes & Spruce Streets
Half Moon Bay, CA

October 13-14, 2007
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day

www.miramarevents.com/pumpkinfest

-Tami

Tagged as: art & food festival, arts, costume contest, Fall, festival, food, Half Moon Bay, music, pumpkin, Pumpkin Parade

Posted by Tami Yu at 5:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

San Francisco Gin Alert!

Come cheer on your favorite top bartenders as they mix up creative DAMRAK® gin cocktails for a chance to win a trip to the Bols Bartending Academy in Amsterdam. Cocktails will be judged on originality, personality, functionality, compatibility of ingredients...and of course, taste!

When: Tuesday October 9, 2007
contest at 7 p.m.

Where: Rye
688 Geary Street
San Francisco, CA, 94102

Damrak ® will also be featured at the upcoming San Francisco Independent Spirits Festival on Saturday October 13, 2007 at the W Hotel

Upcoming competitions:

Damrak ® Mixology Challenge--LA

Wednesday October 10th
4:30 pm
Takami Sushi& Robata Restaurant
811 Wilshire Blvd. 21st Floor
Los Angeles, CA

Damrak ® Mixology Challenge--NORTH BAY

Monday, Oct 8th
6pm
West County Grill
6948 Sebastopol Avenue
Sebastopol, CA

Damrak ® Mixology Challenge--EAST BAY

Monday, Oct 15
7pm
Scott's Seafood
1333 North California Blvd
Walnut Creek, CA

Damrak ® Mixology Challenge--SOUTH BAY

Monday, Oct 22
7pm
Fahrenheit Ultra Lounge
99 East San Fernando Street
San Jose, CA

Tagged as: bars, bartending, Bols Bartending Academy, cocktails, competition, contest, Damrak gin, drinks, gin, liquor, mixology, spirits

Posted by Tami Yu at 4:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Aussie Fashion Event Alert!

The Australian Chamber of Commerce Speaker Series

The fashion industry is a highly competitive and fickle business and one that generates a lot of opinion and general media coverage. With the recent arrival of some Australian ex-pats to the Bay Area, the Australian Chamber of Commerce is hosting an event that highlights
what it's like to operate in the US.

Panelists: John Anderson, President and CEO of Levi Strauss & Co, Elizabeth Charles, founder, Elizabeth Charles, a fashion boutique in New York City's meatpacking district as well as her recently opened store in the Fillmore Street district of Pacific Heights, and Poppy King, Lipstick Queen and 1995 Young Australian of the Year.

Each speaker will give a 15 minute presentation and will be followed by 30 minute Q&A session. The event will conclude with a wine and appetizers reception.

Don't forget to check out "The Vault", a new exhibit dedicated to the work of the Levi Strauss & CO. A unique look at the cultural history over the past 150 years, it features clothing, documents, artifacts and posters on view from the collections in the Archives.

Levi's Headquarters, 1160 Battery Street, San Francisco

Tuesday, September 25, 2007

5:30 p.m. Check in
6:00 p.m. Program
7:15 p.m. Wine and Appetizers

RSVP: ozchamber@aol.com

Cost: Members $10 - Non Members $25. Please RSVP and sign up online at
www.sfaussies.com

-Tami

Tagged as: Australian Chamber of Commerce, Elizabeth Charles, fashion, fashion industry, Levi Strauss, Poppy King, speaker panel, The Lipstick Queen

Posted by Tami Yu at 11:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fall Lingerie Update!

Be among the first to preview A La Folie's impressive fall collection of fine European lingerie, from the new exclusive Dessous by Sophie Simmons’ to the popular Princesse Tam Tam line.

Check out the flirty lace and ruffles in Princess Tam Tam’s dreamy bras, camisoles and panties. As for Dessous-devotees, be prepared to fall head over heels again with Sophie Simmons’ Parisian-inspired rompers, nighties and Viscose tanks in lovely Fall hues...

A La Folie boutique
1816 Fourth Street, Berkeley, California
510-845.1616

www.visitalafolie.com

-Tami

Tagged as: A La Folie, Dessous by Sophie Simmons, European lingerie, Fall fashion, fashion, fashion show, French lingerie, lingerie, lingerie show, Princess Tam Tam, shopping

Posted by Tami Yu at 6:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

For those who missed the great shows from San Francisco Fashion Week, don't fret. Online fashion community LookSpark brings everything to your fingertips by sending up-to-date postings of all the runway shows, including after-party pics and a fashion blog of each night's happenings.

Be sure to check out the cute frocks from Kirribilla, Emily Jane, Dcepcion, and Vian Hunter. The best part: when you post your opinion (called a "Spark") on any of the designs from SFFW, you become eligible for a chance to win an Apple iPhone (contest ends September 15). What are you waiting for? Start creating some 'Sparks' today!

See ya at the fashion shows,

Tami

Tagged as: clothing, dresses, Emily Jane, fashion, fashion design, fashion designers, Kirribilla, LookSpark, runway show, San Francisco Fashion Week, SFFW, Vian Hunter

Posted by Tami Yu at 2:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fall makeup update for San Francisco Bay Area beauty addicts!

Glam looks are here again for this coming Fall season, and here’s your opportunity to try out Shu Uemura's elegant Komon 2007 Fall collection. Inspired by nature, this beautiful 125th Limited Edition collection features colors that are depicted in traditional kimonos from the Edo Period.

Sip on some bubbly and groove to fab DJ tunes as you get made over into a glorious diva that you really are. The friendly and expert Shu Uemura team will also be available to advise on your current makeup regimen and skin care needs. Try out their new and lovely Pleasure of Japanese Bath oil collection!

Call today to reserve your spot! (415) 395-0953

Friday & Saturday, August 31 & September 1 (11am - 6pm daily)

1971 Fillmore Street, San Francisco

www.shuuemura-usa.com

See you at the makeup counter!

Tami

Tagged as: 2007 fall makeup, beauty, blush, eyeshadow, Fall makeup, Japanese bath oil, kimono color and design, Komon makeup collection, limited edition makeup, lipstick, makeup, Pleasure of Japanese Bath oil, Rouge Unlimited lipstick, San Francisco event, Shu Uemura

Posted by Tami Yu at 11:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Tequila connoisseurs will be excited to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the El Tesoro distillery. Carlos Camarena, owner and Master Distiller, will be in San Francisco to celebrate this milestone with the launch of a limited edition El Tesoro Anniversio tequila. This special edition is aged seven years and was lovingly created in memory of his grandfather, Don Felipe, who built the distillery La Altena in the mountains of Jalisco Mexico in 1877. El Tesoro distillery still utilizes the artisan methods of traditional ovens and crushing methods for the agave plant. El Tesoro is the only 100 percent blue agave tequila double distilled at 80 proof and bottled without water added.

For Northern California folks, there will be two special events held in honor of this special anniversary. Check out the following details and RSVP to the email listed below.

*Special Events in San Francisco*

-Bottle Signing, meet & greet with Master Distiller Carlos Camarena.

Bring your own or purchase on site. To honor 70 years of quality and tradition, Carlos, third generation and master distiller of El Tesoro Tequila, is proud to present a limited edition El Tesoro Anniversario tequila.

When: Wednesday August 15, 4:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.

Where: John Walker, 175 Sutter Street

-A conversation and tasting with Carlos Camarena. A Q&A and discussion about the history of El Tesoro.

When: Wednesday, August 15, 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.

Where: Cantina, 580 Sutter Street (at Mason next to Hotel Rex)

****Please RSVP to darizzo@gmail.com

-Tami

Tagged as: Carlos Camarena, El Tesoro Tequila, limited edition El Tesoro Anniversio tequila, Liquor and Spirits, local events, Master Distiller, San Francisco, special events, tasting, Tequila

Posted by Tami Yu at 7:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Local foodies from the San Francisco Bay Area are in for a lovely treat. The first-ever public event from the exquisite leather artisan April in Paris, this 2-day food and wine tasting will showcase authentic French delicacies before they are formally launched in the US market.

Severine Leboube of French Delight will be offering mouth-watering samples of rich pate, smoked salmon, tomato caviar, jams, specialty Mirabelle plum cakes, almond nougat, traditional calisson (a Provence specialty), nut-filled chocolate rolls, and bergamot candies (I'm drooling already). Whether you're shopping for yourself or for an upcoming Easter gathering, it will be difficult to buy just one item.

There will be special wine pairings by Global Tricana's Jennifer Chatfield, who will guide shoppers through the comprehensive selections of red, white and dessert wines from the famous French regions.

Friday, March 30th (2 to 7pm) and Saturday, March 31st (1 to 5pm)

April in Paris, 55 Clement Street, San Francisco; 415-750-9910

For more info, check out: www.french-delights.com and www.tricana.com

The Sweet Life

Tagged as: Chocolate, Dessert, Dinner, fashiontribes.com, Food and Drink, Gourmet and Gourmand, Handbags, International, Leather, Lifestyle, Luxury, Northern California, San Francisco, Shopping, Special Events, Spring, Wine

Posted by Tami Yu at 10:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Cheese connoisseurs (and wine lovers) will be very excited to check out the first annual Artisan Cheese Festival, taking place March 9-12, 2007, at the Sheraton Sonoma County-Petaluma Hotel. This weekend-long celebration will feature handcrafted cheeses, foods, wines and beers from California and beyond. Attendees will meet more than a dozen international award-winning cheesemakers and learn how to taste, buy, serve and enjoy distinctive artisan cheeses from the experts.

The four-day festival includes the following activities:

Friday 3/9 - “Meet the Artisans” reception and dine-around with festival experts and chefs at select Sonoma County restaurants.

Saturday 3/10 - Educational Tastings and Seminars led by cheese experts such as award-winning authors Laura Werlin and Janet Fletcher, cheesemakers Sue Conley (Cowgirl Creamery) and Mary Keehn (Cypress Grove) and Gary Danko, (founder of the acclaimed Restaurant Gary Danko).

Saturday Evening Artisan Gala Dinner prepared by top San Francisco and Sonoma chefs including Joey Altman of KRON-TV’s “Bay Café,” award-winning author, educator and radio food show host John Ash, Executive Chef Bruce Hill, of San Francisco’s popular Bix Restaurant and the new Picco in Marin County, Executive Chef Jesse Llapitan, of the Palace Hotel in San Francisco and Cory Schreiber, James Beard Award-winning chef/owner of Wildwood restaurant in Portland.

Sunday 3/11 - Artisan Cheese Marketplace - attendees can sample and buy handcrafted products from artisan cheesemakers, food purveyors, vintners and brewers.

Monday 3/12 - Custom tours to visit local artisan creameries and wineries

Ten percent of the event’s ticket proceeds will be donated to local nonprofit organizations, including the Marin Agricultural Land Trust, Sonoma Land Trust, Petaluma Future Farmers of America, California Artisan Cheese Guild and Redwood Empire Food Bank.

The festival also coincides with Sonoma County’s Barrel Tasting Month, during which visitors can meet winemakers and taste wines straight from the barrel, with the option of purchasing wines yet to be marketed to the general public.

www.artisancheesefestival.com

The Sweet Life

Tagged as: Chefs and Confectioners, fashiontribes.com, Food and Drink, Gourmet and Gourmand, International, Northern California, San Francisco, Special Events, Wine

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

If you are lucky enough to be in the Napa Valley area this month, I highly recommend the Death by Chocolate Festival at Copia: The American Center for Wine, Food & the Arts. Fellow chocoholics and dessert lovers should not miss this popular annual event, as there will be guided tasting panels (by Alice Medrich and Guittard!), wine & chocolate pairings, lectures and a walk-around tasting with 30 top U.S. chocolate companies (Dagoba, Charles Chocolates, Scharffen Berger, NEWTREE, etc.)

Past events have been sold out, so plan early. For tickets and detailed event schedule: http://www.copia.org/content/chocolate

There will be chocolate-themed events (truffle-making classes, wine/chocolate pairing classes, etc.) all month long, so don't miss them: http://www.copia.org/content/event

Saturday, 2/17 • 10:00 am - 5:00 pm ($45 festival pass/$35 member)

Chocolate Tasting with Gary Guittard
Saturday, 2/17 • 10:30 - 11:15 am

The Guittard family has been selecting and importing cacao beans to San Francisco from around the world since the late 19th century. Join Gary Guittard, great grandson of company founder Etienne Guittard and current company president, for a guided chocolate tasting and a glimpse into the mysteries surrounding the making of this seductive sweet.

Wine and Chocolate: Foods of Venus
Saturday, 2/17 • 11:00 am, 12:00 pm & 3:30 pm
Wine and chocolate are known aphrodisiacs. A glass of Champagne or an aged Pinot Noir wine can quicken our passions, while chocolate brings its own mellow charge. Come hear about the foods and wines that turn us on!

Bittersweet with Alice Medrich (Dessert demonstration, tasting and book signing)
Saturday, 2/17 • 11:45 am - 12:30 pm

In her book, Bittersweet: Recipes and Tales from a Life in Chocolate (Artisan), award-winning author and chocolate expert Alice Medrich explores “percentage” chocolates with less sugar, more cocoa bean solids and more flavor. She’ll share fresh and foolproof recipes for new chocolate desserts and updated classics.

Death by Chocolate Walk-Around Tasting (Saturday, 2/17 • 1:00 - 3:00 pm)

What a way to go—taste your way to ecstasy in this tribute to the ultimate food addiction. Sample dozens of chocolate treats from top chocolatiers, confectioners and pastry chefs, all paired with chocolate-friendly wines and even a chocolate liqueur or two. Whether you crave creamy milk chocolate or the darkest bittersweet, you’ll find bliss in this scrumptious smorgasbord.

Chocolate with Charles
3:15 - 4:00 pm
Renowned for their high quality ingredients and sophisticated flavors and textures, the confections of Charles Chocolates have helped to redefine the world of gourmet chocolate. Founder Chuck Siegel demonstrates three luscious hot chocolates and shares tips and techniques for working with chocolate at home.

See you at Copia!

Tagged as: Chefs and Confectioners, Chocolate, Dessert, fashiontribes.com, Food and Drink, Gourmet and Gourmand, Holiday, Northern California, San Francisco, Seasonal, Special Events, Trends, Winter

Posted by Tami Yu at 8:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I love movies. And being a huge fan of foreign films, I naturally had to check out this year's San Francisco International Film Festival selections. With over 100 entries, I really had to narrow it down and choose a couple great entries from Asia that are worth a gander (in my humble opinion of course).

The opening night film, "Perhaps Love," was one of the most highly anticipated musicals from Hong Kong director Peter Chan (My favorite cinematographer Christopher Doyle also worked on this ambitious project, so that's always a BIG plus). With Bollywood choreography, it's sure to entertain even the most skeptical moviegoer. Frankly, I'm just proud of the fact that this is the first HK film to be chosen for this year's festival opening night.

Set in Shanghai and Beijing, the story is your basic doomed love triangle plot, but with the stellar international cast (Takeshi Kaneshiro (so cute), Zhou Xun, Jacky Cheung and Ji Jin-Hee) and the strong vocals of HK pop megastar Jacky Cheung, you can't help but be enthralled by the whole performance.

Already garnering a few awards, this will attract every hopeless romantic out there, and then some. Be forewarned - while many folks will compare this to "Moulin Rouge," this is more of a realistic portrayal of the many facets and emotions of love, especially the complicated, bittersweet and nasty parts (y'all know what I'm talking about).

Another festival favorite, "House of Himiko," is a dramedy by Isshin Inudo. A young Saori (Kou Shibasaki) is forced to come to terms with her past after a handsome Haruhiko (Joe Odagir