When I first moved to San Francisco in August 2005, I convinced my sister to help me start a club as a way to meet new people. We called it the “Ladies Activity Club” and our first party had six attendees. Each month, a new person would host a party for the others involving some…

I wish that Lenox would reissue their famous Ming pattern. First sold in 1917, this pattern has such a classic elegance. And Lenox is so durable! My mom has a set of the dessert plates and I rediscovered the pattern while visiting Replacements in North Carolina. Until Lenox starts obeying my wishes, you can find…

These cut out ceramic vases are perfect for displaying a few of early spring’s blossoms. Delicate freesias would be a particularly good match! Made by local artist, Joanna Mendicino, you can buy her vases directly online (check out her birds too!) or through the Artist Xchange gallery on 16th Street in the mission.

Job interviews are a lot like first dates. You want to wear something semi “safe” that also reflects your personality and the particulars of the event. Debbie wrote in from Ohio with the following request: I’m a 42-yr old graphic designer and I just got my first job interview after 8 years as a freelancer…

I promised myself that I would take at least a few weeks off from wedding planning to just enjoy being engaged. It’s been a nice way for Rob and I to brainstorm without actually planning. So far, we’re thinking the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite will be our location for the October wedding. As for colors,…

What a wonderful weekend! Rob and I drove out to Yosemite on Friday night. This trip, partly to celebrate Rob’s birthday and party to kick off climbing season, has become something of an annual tradition. About 30 of our good friends came this year. We arrived at Upper Pines Campground at 9:30 and sat by…

Washington D.C. is such a fun city! Elizabeth is going there on vacation and wrote in asking for outfit suggestions: I will be traveling to Washington DC in May for a five day vacation. Included in this trip will be several days of sightseeing- so lots of walking. I would love to build some outfits…

Next time I am down on the central coast I’d love to drive out to Carpinteria to visit Rose Story Farm. This gorgeous ranch is home to over 120 antique rose varieties. They were mentioned in the last issue of InStyle. For $35 they’ll give you a tour complete with rose samples and a picnic…

Is this a uniquely San Francisan phenomenon, or does it apply to residents of all large cities? Here’s the story: Rob and I had a hard time readjusting to city life after our vacation last week. I was starting to feel very fed up with techno loving neighbors, not having a dishwasher or washing machine,…

I love reader shopping challenges! Kristi wrote in with the following request: I’m a fan of your blog and have a teeny bit of a fashion crisis which I know you can help me with! I am attending a wedding with my boyfriend down here in LA on May 12th. It is at the Bel…