Old Meets New in Sonoma Plaza

BCBG Generation Trench Coat, Calvin Klein Dress, Franco Sarto Sandals, JCrew Necklace & Michael Kors Watch

I absolutely love juxtapositions especially when old meets new. In this case, I’m referring to my modern day spring outfit in comparison to the Mission San Francisco Solano behind me founded in 1823 by Spanish-Mexican Monks. It’s remarkable to see that we’ve gone through several eras of fashion and the mission is still standing, as well as several fashion trends. So what era am I? I’m a combination of a few and I consider my style everyday colorful Bohemian Chic. I love combining dresses with a variety of patterns and colors which express my love of fashion and the ability to combine old styles with new trends.

Shooting at this historic landmark was pretty special for two reasons: in 4th grade I selected this mission for my California history fourth grade report. Who else remembers this project? Secondly, my family is in the process of constructing our own mission/hacienda style winery paying homage to how wine was introduced to California via the missions. Stay tuned for more winery updates!

Sonoma Plaza has always captured my heart for it's rural charm, historic significance and eclectic mix of tasting rooms, restaurants, hotels, cafes and galleries. With its winding alleyways, timeworn adobe storefronts, and historic landmarks the square boasts vast stretches of lawn that creates a lush setting for picnics, cultural activities and weekly farmers markets. Definitely one of my favorite local scenes in Sonoma's beautiful wine country! Who else agrees?

48 Hours in San Francisco

Franco Sarto Riding Boots, Alice + Olivia Dress, Banana Republic Blazer

I've been living in and out of San Francisco since 2003 and no matter how much places, people and life evolves this city will forever have my heart. Here are a few of my favorite things, places and advice for people visiting for a quick weekend trip (mixing tourist traps + local scenes):

Day One: The Icons

1. Golden Gate Bridge. Instead of walking or biking over the bridge head over to Baker Beach in the Presidio district where a gorgeous sandy beach welcomes you with stunning views of the bridge and bay.
Tip: Great for picnicking, sun tanning (when it's hot) and taking your fur babies for a stroll. If you're lucky you might catch a glimpse of some dolphins!

2. Alamo Square Park. End the day watching the sunset at the iconic postcard-ready Victorians below Alamo Square Park.
Tip: Great for a date night. Be ready with a blanket + a bottle of vino and some GoVino cups.

3. North Beach Dinner Plans. Head over to the lively district of Washington Square Park and cruise up the hill to Don Pistos for some delicious Mexican inspired street food goodness.
Tip: Still thirsty? Night owls should cruise over to Columbus Avenue and enjoy an array of bar hopping hubs to quench your thirst.

Day Two: The Real Deal

1. Sunday Brunch in the Mission District. Head over to Foreign Cinema for a boozy brunch filled with delicious California inspired bites surrounded by a hip outdoor space screening films.
Tip: After brunch cruise over to the newly remodeled Dolores Park and find a spot to people watch and enjoy the views.

2. Golden Gate Park. Check out the newest De Young Museum art exhibit or walk across the park to the California Academy of Sciences for an afternoon of fun adult learning.
Tip: If you're feeling adventurous rent a bike on Fulton Street and cruise through the botanical gardens.

3. Dim Sum Dinner Plans. End the day in Chinatown grubbing on some of the best Dim Sum northern CA has to offer. 
Tip: Favorite Dim Sum spot includes Great Eastern Restaurant. 

What's the best thing about SF? The lack of pretension for such a cosmopolitan city, the bustling yet comfortable activity in the streets, squares and parks and the diverse food scene the city has to offer.

Winter Wonderland in Lake Tahoe

Ugg Boots, BNCI Vest, J. Crew Flannel, Ray Ban Aviators

Last weekend I escaped to the winter wonderland of Lake Tahoe. It was refreshing and relaxing to be immersed in nature’s beauty surrounded by glittering blankets of snow. It also marked one of my good amigos birthdays (including mine on Sunday), making the trip even more memorable!

With a crew of 15 friends we nestled up in a gorgeous three story house in Incline Village. We spent the majority of time playing college drinking games, hot tubbing and bar hopping around Northstar Resort while some of the crew snowboarded. It was perfection. Like a chilled glass of Schramsberg Brut Rosé. Yes, please!

Insider Tip: if you’re staying in north Lake Tahoe stop by the Log Cabin Caffe for brunch (grapefruit mimosas + crab cake Benedict are delicious!). Afterward, swing by Speedboat Beach on your way out of town (locals favorite! Amazing views + huge boulders to jump off during the summer).

Rainy Day Philosophy

Hunter Boots, Max Studio Stripped Dress, BCBGeneration Coat

Rainy days. I love how it softens the outlines of things. The world becomes delicately blurred, and for some reason I feel at peace and relaxed. With the start of the new year I’ve made it a point to take action on a few simple philosophies that I believe are beneficial to the mind, body and soul.

• Drink more water, drink less alcohol.
• Stop complaining and learn to live life with what you have.
• Exercise more, eat healthy, and go for walks. Long walks.
• Delete the negative, accentuate the positive.
• Do small things with great love.
• Invest in people who invest in you.
• Don’t wait for opportunity. Create it.
• Learn to say no without explaining yourself.
• Embrace messy hair, sweatpants and get lost in a book with no one around.
• At some point you have to let go of what you thought should happen and start living in what is happening.

This weekend I’m headed to Lake Tahoe for my birthday. I’m excited to be immersed in nature’s glorious winter wonderland with awesome company. Happy Friday amigos!

Adiós 2015, Bienvenido 2016

BCBG Dress and Necklace, Vintage Feather Wrap, Sam Edelman Heels, Michael Kors Watch

Happy New Year amigos! I’m delighted to announce I’m back and spearheading my lifestyle blog in full force. To recap, over the past year and a half I tackled a few milestones that temporarily took my full attention (a little thing called life). Some key highlights included: receiving my executive MBA at Sonoma State University in wine marketing, collaborating with NakedWines.com to produce my 3rd vintage of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay under my La Tapatia wine label, while marching into my 30’s with gusto and continuing to work with my family's winery.  Whew, what a ride!

In short, much has transpired in such a beautiful way and now I can’t wait to continue to share my adventures, findings, fashion tips, recipes and shenanigans with all of you. Thank you for joining me on this journey and here’s to an unforgettable and exciting 2016. Ole!

Throughout the holidays I always like to have a festive option that's an alternative to sequins and classic red outfits. The soft ivory tulle dress in contrast to the chocolate brown feather wrap offers a modern yet sexy way to dress up your holiday ensemble. Did I mention I have a slight dress obsession?