foodie friday: wildcraft pizza

One of the things I love most about the area I live in is that Downtown Culver City is just minutes away. While this small strip of restaurants and bars is a gem in and of itself, I find myself wanting to venture down there even more since Wildcraft Pizza opened at the beginning of the year. My friend Alex and I finally made it to this hot spot a few weeks ago, and we're still talking about how delectable the food was. And not to mention how cozy and adorable the space is.

Wildcraft boasts an eclectic menu of small bites, salads, veggies, entrees, and of course, sourdough neapolitan pizzas. I'm always impressed with a place that offers an array of both red and white pizzas, and Wildcraft's menu boasts many clever yet simple options in both categories. Alex and I struggled to select what to order because everything looked (and smelled) phenomenal. We decided to try a couple different small plates and pies so we could get a good feel for the menu, and it turned out to be a great idea (obviously).

Not To Be Missed:
'15 minutes of fame' garlic knots, burrata, goat cheese white pizza (we added prosciutto), truffle white pizza

I have yet to try any of the red pizzas, but I already have my eye on the spicy sausage and the carnage. Looks like I'm due for another visit very soon! If you're into pizza (and let's face it, who isn't?), this place is definitely worth checking out.
xx

{images: 1/2/3/4}

wanderer

[anthropologie dress, jessica simpson heels {old, but similar here I'm also coveting}, ray-ban shades, michael kors watch, jewelmint ring]

Whoa. Hey there, friends. Long time, no talk...am I right? My apologies for being 100% absentee for the last, you know, month...life has been absolutely crazy busy. I realize that isn't an excuse, but the truth is I had to put the blog on the back-burner for a while so I could focus on other things. And while it was a necessity, my goodness does it feel wonderful to be back!

The major thing I should catch you up on is I think I actually made a turn into adulthood. I've fought it for a long time, but recently I had to make the biggest decision I've ever made in my life thus far, and it was at that moment I realized I'm not a kid anymore. Insert panic attack here.  The details of this decision are insignificant, but I can happily say I'm confident with the path I chose. I'm actually looking forward to everything around the corner now, when I was almost dreading them before. Granted, the second something goes wrong (which, let's face it, always does in life), I'm sure I'll be eating those words and wishing for my childhood again. Not that I do that.

Another update is that Kristin moved back in with us roomies! You might remember reading about her year in London, but now she's back in L.A. and we're holding her hostage.

These photos were taken over Memorial Day weekend (so hey, not that long ago!), when the beau and I took a little jaunt to Coronado Island for the day. It felt like a mini-vacation: we strolled along the boardwalk, sipped some bubbly, listened to some live music at the Hotel del, and soaked in the sunshine. It was just the low-key day I'd needed for many weeks.

I have to be cheesy and dedicate this post to the beau--he's been on my case at least twice a week about updating, so this one's for you love! P.S. Isn't he cute? :)

Have a great Thursday, lovelies.
xx

foodie friday: sotto

This week we celebrated my friend Lizz's birthday (and her upcoming move + promotion!) at Sotto in Beverly Hills. I'd been hearing great things about the quaint Southern Italian restaurant since I moved to L.A., but it was my first time visiting.

Sitting down at the lovely rustic table, I was a little nervous considering I couldn't understand a single wine on their expansive list (I couldn't tell you a single word of Italian), but luckily the sommelier had some great recommendations for us. Since we had a decent-sized group, I got to try quite a few things on the menu, which as you all know by now is my favorite way to dine. Every single thing I tried was out of this world--easily the best Italian food I've had. From handmade pastas and Neapolitan pizzas to a fluffy frittata, Sotto is certain to hit the spot for Italian lovers.

photos 1,2,3 + 5 via//photo 4 by me

Not To Be Missed:
small plates: baby kale and ricotta frittata, fava bean bruschetta
entrees: spaghetti, margherita pizza, whole wheat capunti
dessert: bittersweet chocolate crostata
+ obviously wine, but that's a given!

If you don't eat authentic Italian food often, this menu puts you outside of your comfort zone. There are multiple items, specifically the pastas, containing some sort of liver. I'll admit it was a bit off-putting at first, but I didn't try a single dish I didn't like. I ordered the Margherita pizza, and (as my former editor Kathryn assured me beforehand) it was the best in the city. If you're looking for a pizza or pasta fix, get your booty to Sotto. And call to invite me.
xx

the perfect outfit

[mossimo blazer via target, j-crew chambray top, zara jeans, jessica simpson heels, rebecca minkoff bag, ray-ban aviators, michael kors watch, bracelets- david yurman/tiffany's/stella & dot, ring from my aunt]

This is some groundbreaking news, people: I've found the perfect outfit. I'd wear this to work, dinner with my girlfriends, Easter brunch as I did this particular day, a date with the beau, or for any casual weekend outing (with an obvious shoe change to sandals; I'm not insane). It was the perfect outfit choice for a weekend of eating too much candy and celebrating the birth and life of my mom.

In more serious news, I'm keeping Boston in my thoughts + prayers. I feel blessed that my friends who live there are safe, but I'm praying for those who weren't so lucky. I will say it's moving to see Americans helping one another, but I wish it weren't under such horrific circumstances. I hope we can stand together as a nation and help the city recover.
Stay strong + positive this week, my friends, and thanks for reading!
xx

spring fling

[zara blouse {last year, but similar here}, express shorts, target wedges, rebecca minkoff bag, ray-ban aviators, michael kors watch, jewelmint ring]

I always forget how great this blouse is. It's a wild print, it's silky...and this past time I wore it a gay man told me I was reminiscent of a Versace spring ad. I'll take it.

The beau and I stopped in La Jolla over the weekend to celebrate my mom and drink wine by the sea. I simply can't get enough of these idyllic coves. While we typically just brunch and take in the views, I think next time we'll get in on some kayaking or cave action. I'm feeling the need for a little adventure!

Happy Wednesday, lovelies. What adventures are calling your name this week?
xx

happy birthday

Saturday was my mom's birthday. She would have been 53 years old. I'd like to say it was a perfect day where I smiled at our good times together and did things she would have wanted to do were she still alive.  While that part is true, if I'm being completely honest it was a really hard day for me. My sweet boyfriend took me around town and we ate mexican food (her favorite) and drank chardonnay (her other favorite) by the ocean, and it was wonderful. But I still felt a lingering emptiness, missing her more than usual.

While the sole purpose of starting this blog was to honor and celebrate the life of my amazing mother, I still have a difficult time being completely honest with how I'm feeling about losing her. I challenge myself to focus on the good times, and use this as a positive space to share happy memories, similarities, and pretty little things I know she would have loved.  But unfortunately it isn't always so easy to do so. There are days when I really, really struggle with the pain of losing my hero. Especially lately--I'm at that tricky time in my life (like all of us 20-somethings) where I don't have much figured out and I'm changing my mind all the time. There are so many days when I desperately wish I had her to talk to, to give me advice.  On those days I find a way to connect with her as best I can, whether by taking a walk and talking to her, perusing the web for Nike clothes, or planning for this blog.

I don't want this space to be a negative one dripping with sadness; that was never my intention or how I want these posts to come across. My hope is that I can give you all a chance to know her, and be inspired by her just as I was. Next time you're enjoying white wine, I urge you to raise your glass in her memory and toast the wonderful life she lived.

Happy Birthday, Mom.
xx

sneaky

[madewell blazer {last seen here}, target tee, j-brand jeans, steve madden sneakers, pashmina scarf, rebecca minkoff bag, ray-ban aviators, michael kors watch, bracelets- david yurman/tiffanys, ring- jewels by the sea] 

I warned you all it was coming. If you follow me on instagram, you already knew I purchased them. I've had these wedge sneakers stashed away for a few weeks now, waiting for the right time to unveil my unoriginal find. Actually, I wear these bad boys about twice a week now...but you get what I mean. My point is that I jumped on the wedge sneaker bandwagon, and I don't hate it (sorry, G).

I hope everyone is having a lovely week!
xx

brunch necessities

It's no secret that I'm a big fan of brunch. Pretty much any Saturday or Sunday I'm down to sit on a restaurant patio chowing down on some eggs benny and sipping champagne, especially now that the weather is warming up.  But as much as I love eating out, there's something even more special about a homemade brunch with friends.

image via pinterest

Full disclosure: my homemade brunches are usually thrown together at the last minute with literally no planning and no frills.  I text a few friends like an hour before, they volunteer to bring some ingredients, and we cook whatever we have on-hand (read: I flip a few pieces of bacon and focus on pouring champagne while other people cook). But a few weeks ago one of my co-workers invited some of us over for brunch at her place, and homegirl went all out. She'd gone to the flower mart downtown for impressive blooms, had created a bloody mary station, and labeled everything from the mixers to the homemade butters with pretty signs.

It was such a refreshing afternoon, and now I'm thinking a proper springtime brunch at my place is in order very soon. Here are a few pretty finds that have my hostess wheels turning.

1 martha stewart crafts labels//2 williams sonoma ceramic cake stand//3 target glass pedestal serving plates//4 ball mason jars//5 spritz striped straws//6 fresh spring flowers for the table

I love the concept of labeling any liquids or flavored butters, creating a drink station for screwdrivers or bloody marys with various mixers, or concocting a light and tasty punch. And don't forget the mimosas!
xx

foodie friday: the fat cow

The Grove was the first mall I ever visited in L.A. and I instantly fell in love. Not only did I love that it was outdoors, but the space has such a vibrancy about it. Between the slew of amazing shops, the fountain show, and the concerts or fashion shows randomly happening in the middle of it all, I didn't think it could get any better.

Enter The Fat Cow, a charming rustic eatery created by world-renowned chef Gordon Ramsay.  The newly-opened hub offers an array of classic + modern comfort foods crafted with fresh ingredients from local farmers and the Farmer's Market (which is adjacent to The Grove). I've only been a couple times so far, and I can already tell this will be a go-to spot. Bonus: it's super close to my office.

 Brussels sprouts pizza with pancetta

 Can you spot me? :)

Market salad + Fat Cow cheeseburger with bacon jam (love the branding on the bun!)

Along with the excellent food, I've been relatively impressed with the service thus far. The staff is all incredibly friendly and make you feel special, even if you're just walking through the restaurant.

Not To Be Missed

Brussels sprout pizza, Fat Cow cheeseburger (you must add the bacon jam--I wasn't sure what it was, but the server sold me on it and it was smokey, sweet, and perfection), market salad

On my next visit, I'll have to try the lobster mac 'n' cheese, obviously. Also, I've been averting my eyes from their dessert bar because of Lent, but everything looks absolutely incredible. It will definitely be one of my first stops after Easter. If you're in L.A. you should definitely check this place out! It's the perfect spot for a quick and easy lunch, especially if you can sit near the fountain on the patio.

Happy Friday, loves!

xx

the chop

[stylemint striped tee, babakul pants, jessica simpson pumps via nordstrom rack, rebecca minkoff bag, polo ralph lauren glasses, j.crew necklace, michael kors watch, ring-gift from my aunt]

Well, I did it! For a while there I thought I was going to chicken out, but I chopped about eight inches off my hair. And I have to say (as corny as it might sound), it's an incredibly liberating feeling. My head literally feels ten pounds lighter, which means I'm sure everyone who walks by me thinks I have issues because I can't stop flipping my head around.

The weather here has been ridiculous lately: in the 80's one week, and 50's in the next. Yesterday was finally a gorgeous, typical SoCal day...not too hot, not too cold. An excellent first day of spring! Of course I had to bust out some color and my comfiest pants. These guys feel like I'm wearing pajamas, so I threw on some heels to chic it up a bit.
What did you wear for the first day of spring?
xx

wednesday wear

By the time the middle of the week rolls around, my to-do list seems to be growing and my patience for the weekend wearing. On these oh-so-busy days, I tend to throw on my boyfriend jeans, get my hair out of my face, and get down to business.  But since most of us still need to look polished in our comfortable getups, I've compiled a few casual + chic looks that are easy to emulate with the pieces already hanging in your closet.

image via atlantic-pacific

Throw on a great jacket and some pointy-toe pumps with your boyfriend jeans, and the look becomes the perfect choice for anything on your calendar. 

image via brooklyn blonde

It's pretty much impossible to not be comfortable in a classic v-neck. Keep it simple with a black + white color palette, a sleek ponytail, and red lips.

image via could i have that?

A crisp button down and relaxed jeans are a no-brainer for days when you're in a rush. I love the sunny hue of this Equipment blouse for spring, but it's a bit out of my price range. Find a more affordable alternative here.

image via sincerely, jules

There's nothing more easy-breezy than a maxi dress. Pair it with a leather jacket for an edgier look.

image via frankie hearts fashion

And of course there's the always classic button-down, crisp blazer, jeans, and booties. I mean, when does that combination ever not look perfect?

Another secret of mine, although small, is a manicure.  I almost always keep polish on my nails because it curbs my terrible nail-biting habit, and keeping it maintained also helps me feel more put together.
What are your go-tos when you're in that mid-week rush?
xx

time out

I'll level with you, my friends. It has been a rough couple of weeks for me.  My mom's birthday is in a couple weeks, and whenever that date draws near I always seem to go through a pretty big internal struggle.  With some big question marks on the horizon, and a few recent bad days, I've found myself missing her even more than usual. I've been experiencing a slew of those moments where I think the only thing to ease the pain would be talking to her. While I realize I can still do this, I really miss hearing her voice, her advice, and her loving encouragement.

image via pinterest

While it's been tough to feel inspired lately, I'm slowly starting to feel myself find those pretty little things that make the days (and those tough times) feel less intense.  Good + big things are coming...I can feel it!
xx

spring forward

I'm happy to report that my quest for packing lighter worked out (although visiting a friend who is the same size and had essentially everything I could need helped). But between a relaxing long weekend and Daylight Savings, today has been a rough one!

image via middle child complex

I'll be honest, I'm trying my hardest to get it together (for the blog, work, and life in general), but my bed is really comfortable...

There's a lot going on + a lot coming up in the next few months, so I'll need all the rest I can get!
xx

travel bug

My friend Linley is notorious for packing light, and by that, I mean light. Homegirl takes weekend trips with a large purse as a carry-on and that's it.  I'm headed to Scottsdale this weekend to visit one of my closest childhood friends, and I asked Linley for her weekender bag and tips for how to pack.  Between her advice and additional styling tips from Jacey of Damsel in Dior, I think I might actually be able to do this (fingers crossed). In case this doesn't seem like a huge deal, let's just say that my idea of packing is trying to cram a week's worth of stuff into the biggest suitcase I own....

images via pinterest

1. Everything should be one color family, with the ability to mix + match all items

2. Bring one flat, one heel to be prepared for anything

3. Always bring a chambray shirt--it can be worn with just about anything and add layers

4. Wear your chunkiest pieces (i.e. coat, scarf, shoes that take up space) on the plane

5. Pack jewelry in a clutch to keep it secure; clutch can be used for evenings

Wish me luck, loves! Are you going anywhere fun soon? What are your packing secrets?

xx

wednesday wear: spring brights

No matter the season, I'm always a fan of classic + clean color palettes.  I'm typically not super on board with head-to-toe color, lots of different colors, or neons, but when it comes to spring, I tend to open up my mind (and closet) a bit more to the trend that keeps on coming back for the season: bright colors.  It's not exactly new or groundbreaking, but it seems as though brights are here to stay and I'm embracing it now more than ever. Here are some looks I'm coveting and some pieces I wouldn't mind calling my own.

photo via middle child complex

The face of Burberry, Gabriella Wilde, in small pops of color. I absolutely love this timeless look!

photo via brooklyn blonde

I've never seen head-to-toe color (her shoes are also yellow) look so chic.  Helena keeps the look grounded with sleek hair and dark sunglasses and nails.

photo via damsel in dior

Print on print done right. I love how these colors play up one another, and the look is grounded by neutral accessories.

photo via kendi everyday

Chambray and colored jeans are always a perfect go-to for spring. The colored bag is unexpected,yet compliments the look.

photo via fash boulevard

Nothing screams spring like a colored blazer and whimsical print. Pink is obviously not my color, or else I'd be all over this! I would love to call this beautiful Alice + Olivia skirt mine.

Looking to incorporate more color into your wardrobe this spring like I am? Here are a few bright finds...

Clockwise from top left: Zara straight cut trousers//Zara color block clutch//Stella & Dot Jolie necklace//Modcloth I Lilac It Like that bag//Kain silk tank//Prabal Gurung for Target lace-up pump//Kate Spade mint patent pumps

PS--I made my appointment today to get my hair cut. I'm taking the plunge!
xx