It is hard to believe that it has been over a week since we've all had to adjust our lives to this radical new reality. In some ways it feels much longer, and of course in others it seems that just yesterday we were all running around attending to our myriad quotidian lives. As a team, we are no longer able to be together at our boutique on Main Street, or in our studio in DTLA. We are now working remotely as best we can, with everyone's safety top of mind. I must admit that I did pop over to Main Street to gather some things I'll need while working from home, and I was struck by how much I miss being there. I miss my amazing team and our lovely clients of course, but I also miss just inhabiting the space that I created to welcome people into the world of LFrank. I do love it there, especially in the afternoon when the gorgeous golden sunlight comes in just so.

In the spirit of helping those who need it most, we have #LINKED up with our jewelry community in donating 10% of all online sales to an amazing organization, No Kid Hungry.  They do incredible work all year long to ensure that the most vulnerable children receive access to consistent, healthy meals. There is no better time than now to help them, so if you have had your eye on a piece of jewelry, treat yourself, and do some good in the process.  Please also take advantage of a 25% discount on all in-stock lingerie to shop and support. Use code LINKED from now through April 1st, 2020. There are lots of beautiful things to help brighten your time spent at home. I've long said that waking up in a lovely slip, or donning a beautiful robe, can change the trajectory of your day, so please take me up on that and give it a try.  I suspect we can all use tools that set us off on the right foot each day during this inconceivable time of restriction.

I feel enormously lucky to love the home that I created with my family, and am grateful to have the opportunity to spend time here, even if it happens to be under such circumstances. If it is essential to stay home, then I am beyond happy to do so here, with all of us together. Staying home for me doesn't mean abandoning all sense of normalcy. On the contrary, I find it rather important to continue to do what I normally do. I still put on all of my jewelry in the morning, and get properly dressed.  In fact, I put this dress on today, for a number of reasons, not just because it's cheery and beautiful. I did a bit of research on the designer Michael Novarese, and found a Swiss article titled "Fashion that Bloom in the Spring" and describes him "...as usual, hitched to a star that continues to rise." I love that.

I also chose this dress today because it is in itself a powerful source of connectivity. I was introduced to Marie and her chic vintage shop RecessLA by my friend Susan Winget (of Marshmallow fame), when I saw a post she did on Instagram. I was able to dash over before quarantine set in, and while everyone else was panic buying toilet paper (someone please explain this to me) I decided to take home a dress that literally screamed my name from the rack. I am beyond happy that I did. I had the nicest experience in her shop, something I am obviously sensitive to, and it gave me a long lasting boost, in that the dress immediately brightened my day and the day of everyone around me, as I hope it brightens yours. Just supporting fellow small businesses feels especially good right now, so I hope you'll have a look at what Marie and Susan do, and spend a little time being delighted.  

We all need a little cheer, and it is most likely not a coincidence, but rather incredibly strong DNA that had my daughter show up for our afternoon family dog walk in her lavender Gunne Sax prom dress from her senior year of high school.  Apples and trees, as the saying goes. I would show you a photo, but she would never forgive me. Suffice to say that it is lavender, frothy, and everything you'd hope it would be. We passed a few little girls on our walk (at a safe distance, rest assured) and I could see them trying to figure out how on earth we could be so lucky as to be walking with a real life princess. She should have been wearing these colorful sapphire earrings along with it.  Next time!

Is everyone cooking as much as I am?  It's quite a lot to make sure there is something for everyone to eat everyday, as we all attend to our work, school or otherwise. We can't live on Milla Chocolates alone, as much as we'd all like.  I try to make sure there is at least something fresh and appealing in the refrigerator, using whatever I've got on hand. Today it was this simple French lentil salad, and it seemed to do the trick.

French Lentil Salad

1 cup lentils du puy (cooked in 4 cups of water, then drained)

2 Persian cucumbers, peeled and diced

5 small organic red and orange peppers, diced

1/4 cup pickled red onions

1 can of organic chickpeas, rinsed and drained

1/2 log of goat's cheese, crumbled

salt and pepper

fresh dill

dressing of lime juice, two spoonfuls of pesto sauce, a few spoonfuls of extra virgin olive oil

Mix all ingredients in a large bowl, allow to sit in the refrigerator for an hour or so, for the flavors to come together.  Season with salt and pepper if needed.

Enjoy, 

What an uncertain time we are in!  There is indeed some solace in knowing that we are all in this together, and that together we can hopefully make a difference to help diminish the spread of COVID-19 in our community. While social distancing is certainly not my style, it is most definitely in the best interest of everyone at the moment. That said, I want to let you know that we are here and look forward to helping you in whatever way works best.  You can call us at 310-452-0771, email inquiries@lfrankjewelry.com, or send us a DM on @lfrankjewelry on Instagram. We will also accommodate private client appointments as necessary.  

I would also like to assure you that the health and safety of my team and our clients is my top priority, so we are taking all necessary precautions with regards to sanitizing our environment, as well as adhering to the published CDC guidelines in all ways. With that in mind and in an abundance of caution, I have decided to close the Main Street boutique to the public for the next few weeks.

You may of course continue to shop online, and we will be updating the website with new work in the upcoming days ahead.  As a small business, we are thankful for your continued support now more than ever. 

I am enormously proud of, and grateful for the sense of community we have created in Venice, and look forward to reconnecting with everyone as soon as possible. We promise to keep you updated with any significant developments. I hope that you are all safe and sound with your families, in good health, and remembering to look for the silver linings in all of this.  

We will continue to create beauty, and to post imagery that provides a welcome respite from the stress of the current moment. We will always shine a light on the beauty of the world, and invite you to enjoy. Please do keep in touch with us!  We look forward to hearing from you, even if it is just to say hello.

Please take good care of yourselves and of others who are in need around you, as we look forward to brighter days ahead.

Much Love, 

Well, the beginning of March has certainly heralded a sort of new reality, hasn't it?  What is that quote about March coming in like a lion, and going out like a lamb?  I realize that pertains to weather, but could it also pertain to the current public health crisis?  Let's all hope so.  I certainly don't have any special insight into the coronavirus, but what I do know, is that we need to take good care of ourselves and others during what is undoubtedly one of the most uncertain times in recent memory.  I'm thinking about those amongst us who might need special looking after, so let's make sure we do that to the best of our abilities. Let's also make sure to notice the amazing things happening around us in the natural world, such as the wisteria blooming, the hummingbird mamas feeding their new little babes, and beginning of a beautiful new season.

For the time being, we are keeping our regular business hours, noon-6pm Tuesdays-Fridays, noon-5pm Saturdays, and closed on Sundays and Mondays.  We are taking all precautions to ensure a sanitized and hygienic shopping experience.  We wipe down all hard surfaces multiple times per day, and after every client visit. We are hand washing on an Olympian level, and making sure that we all stay healthy.  Please feel free to make an appointment, or to have things sent to you, if you are not comfortable venturing out into the world.  Believe me, the most important thing is to take care of ourselves and to protect others, and we understand that on a very deep level. We are more than happy to be flexible and make accommodations as we navigate the current landscape.  

As for taking care of ourselves, we have lots of ways to do that here at LFrank.  Firstly, did you know that burning beeswax candles apparently releases negative ions into the air, which in turn purifies it?  In addition, Frankincense is thought to calm anxiety and have antiseptic properties, which sounds especially good right about now.  We just so happen to have beeswax candles scented with Frankincense essential oil, which will make your house smell delicious, clean the air, and lessen the anxieties of the times.  I have one burning next to me right now, and I have to say that I feel calmer than I have all week. I am also burning our Zen Garden candle, because who doesn't want a little bit of zen at this particular moment?

We also have the silkiest, loveliest pieces of sleepwear and lingerie that make even the most uncertain times infinitely nicer.  As my dear friend Natasha phrases it, we shall be "cocooning" for awhile, so let's be chic and comfortable while we do just that. I always feel bolstered by something colorful and luxurious next to my skin, hence there is no shortage of options here. We just sent out a few custom orders and I am delighted in the knowledge that we are brightening the days ahead for at least a handful of lucky individuals and those around them. There's no good reason not to swan around in something beautiful and don a jewel or two, whether to cocoon at home or to venture out for supplies.

I've also taken time to put together a new selection of our popular African trade bead necklaces. It's a particularly lovely batch, and I know that our collectors will all find something new to love. We have a few online now, and are working on getting the rest up over the next few days. 

As for the upcoming social distancing that we will all be engaging in, I hope it is possible to find the light and levity.  I'll be cooking up a storm and enjoying the unexpected time with my family. I also plan on reconnecting with my newly tuned piano (thank you Mr. Vladimir Greenberg), in between other creative projects. I am also instituting an after-dinner disco routine, something we used to do years ago, and a habit that definitely needs revisiting now that we are all under one roof again. 

I'll also be making this delicious escarole salad for as long as the farmer's market remains open and accessible.  It's the perfect accompaniment to all of the hearty and delicious stews I will also be experimenting with. It's a riff on the one from Lupa in New York.  If you know it, then you love it.  

Escarole Salad

One large head escarole

Toasted and roughly chopped walnuts

Pickled red onions (just soak them in red wine vinegar for as long as you like)

Grated Pecorino-Romano cheese

Fresh dill

For the dressing, I toss a little of the vinegar from the onions, add a spoonful of the oil from the anchovy jar, juice of half a lemon, salt, pepper, and a bit of extra virgin olive oil.  

Enjoy, and take good care out there...

Here we are, a mere nine days away from Valentine's Day. I know it is one of the most polarizing holidays we have.  There are those in the "Hallmark Holiday" camp, who resent being manipulated into buying something, and those who fully embrace any reason to celebrate love in all its forms. I am sure you can already guess what camp I fall into. With all the chaos that surrounds us on a daily basis, I am thrilled to have something lovely to think about. Any holiday that uses jewelry, lingerie, chocolates, and flowers as tools to represent love is going to be a hard favorite for me.  In honor of L O V E, we are hosting a flash sale on some of our favorite gift ideas for Valentine's Day. The sale begins today, and runs through the weekend, so don't delay. Select jewelry items are marked down online, and all sleepwear is 14% off with code BEOURVALENTINE. It's my gift to you.  

Speaking of gifts, Mother Nature has been outdoing herself lately.  Have you been lucky enough to see one of the spectacular sunsets we have been having?  Quite amazing by any measure, the sunsets this winter have been especially vibrant. I feel like they completely reset my central nervous system.  If you can find a minute to run outside around the magic hour, please do yourself the great favor and DO IT.  It does wonders for the soul, and I can feel the indescribable benefits of the experience every single time. 

Capturing views like these are one of the perks of having a boutique located a couple of blocks from the beach. Pink and orange together are one of the color combinations that I most love, so it has been absolute heaven to be able to witness this stunning show every evening.

If you need any advice on the gifting front, we are absolutely here for you, and have plenty to offer.  One of our 100% beeswax candles would make a lovely gift for your Valentine, as would a chic 100% silk Liberty Print Robe and/or Sleep Mask. We also have a lovely assortment of African trade bead necklaces that are always popular, and much appreciated.  I also would recommend a copy of Mona Kuhn's gorgeous book, Bushes and Succulents. We are lucky to have a few signed copies left.  

I've said it before, but I honestly cannot sleep without one of our Hypnos silk sleep masks.  It is so important to sleep in utter darkness, and these always do the trick. I love it when people are a bit skeptical, and then come back to rave about them and buy them as gifts. Treat yourself or someone you care about. An optimal night's rest is one of the greatest gifts of all, so anything to help someone be successful in that endeavor is truly an act of love. 

This new year has felt a bit relentless, so I've tried to keep it simple and give myself a rest from the nonstop cocktail and sweets circuit that we call the holiday season.  This juice is something that helps me reset, so I try to drink it as much as I can. You'll need a juicer to make it at home, or just order these ingredients at your local juice bar.  Ours has memorized it by now, after I've ordered it so many times.  It's completely refreshing, and I definitely feel better having made it part of my routine over the last month.    

Juice for the New Year

One head of organic Celery, tops and base trimmed

One bunch organic Italian Parsley

One bunch organic Cilantro

One large organic cucumber

One organic lemon, cut in half

One two inch piece of organic ginger

After being so virtuous in January, I am more than ready for the Valentine's chocolates that I hope are coming my way soon. Have you tried the Passion Fruit Bonbons at Milla Chocolates?  They are divine. I hope that a certain Valentine of mine will read this and pick up a box. Ahem...hint hint!

Enjoy,

Let's not beat around the bush.  The first night of Hanukkah is in exactly one week, and Christmas is in TEN DAYS!  No need for panic, however.  We have you covered in many ways, with lots of wonderful gift ideas for the lucky people on your list. Come over, and we can walk you through the best options for whomever you are shopping for.  With all of the hectic shopping experiences you could have, I promise visiting LFrank will be one of the most civilized and delightful encounters of the season. 

If you're looking for ideas, let me share a few of my most favorite.

The small elephant pendant is forever charming, and a good luck charm too.  Doesn't everyone need that?  We donate a portion of sales to Knot on my Planet to help aid worldwide elephant conservation and protection, so your gift gives in more ways than one. The Love Note rings are simple, but incredibly personal and delightful.  We are happy to help you find the perfect term of endearment to engrave, and we still have time to make these in time for Christmas! These new sapphire and diamond earrings are like a garden in Versailles. They are light, possessed of an enchanting amount of sparkle, and incredibly special.  Speaking of gardens, the emerald flower drops with blue sapphires, and the emerald stud earrings would all be lovely under the tree.   

I always feel like one can't go wrong with a beautiful robe or slip for a holiday gift.  Everyone can use a new, pretty silky something,  It feels like the ultimate personal luxury. It is an ageless, timeless, and incredibly thoughtful present.  Who wouldn't want to open a box with a lovely silk Liberty print robe, or a silky slip in it?  I know that I would be thrilled beyond words.  The new Lilia slip is here just in time for the holidays, in dark navy silk/cotton voile with a black underlay, and black French lace trim. It was my go-to dress all summer long, and this more seasonal version in double layer silk/cotton is perfect for just about everything right now.  

I would be remiss if I didn't also mention this very beautiful pearl necklace.  It is spectacularly lovely. It feels like wearing a lace collar, but of pearls and gold. We also have many things that won't break the bank.  Mona Kuhn's book is a beautiful gift, as are our 100% beeswax and essential oil candles, which burn for about 120 hours.  The eye masks have been especially popular this year, so we keep re-stocking them, along with the beaded necklaces and the candles.  We even have a new scent this year, Orange Blossom Garden, which smells divine.   

I have been asked to share one of my favorite recipes for a holiday season dessert, so here it is. I have become really taken with making raspberry mousse.  It is completely delicious and feels kind of festive.  The color alone is reason enough to fall in love.  It is wonderful on its own, but elevated to the sublime when served along with a chocolate pavlova.   

Raspberry Mousse

1 envelope plain gelatin

3 tbs. water

12 oz bag of frozen raspberries

1/2 cup sugar

2 cups heavy cream

1.5 tsp pure vanilla extract

Place contents of gelatin envelope in a bowl with 3 tbs. of water and stir to dissolve.

Gently warm the raspberries and sugar over a low heat in a medium saucepan, and cook until the sugar dissolves completely, approximately 10 minutes.  Add the gelatin, and transfer to a bowl to cool completely.  Meanwhile, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until soft peaks form, then gently fold in the cooled raspberry/sugar mixture until combined.  Refrigerate for at least two hours, or as long as two days.  Here you can decide to fill individual compotes with the mousse, and serve with a bit of shaved chocolate and some fresh raspberries.  OR you can make a chocolate pavlova and top with the mousse and some dollops of whipped cream and fresh raspberries.   I like Deb Perelman from Smitten Kitchen's recipe for chocolate pavlova, though I tweak it a bit by doubling the amount of chopped chocolate (of course), using balsamic syrup for the vinegar, and baking at a lower temperature.  

Enjoy,

Unbelievably, there are only nineteen days until Christmas.  It feels very condensed, this time between giving thanks and gifting our beloveds.  We are taking a decidedly mellow approach, considering the mad dash.  We have a few lovely playlists on repeat, lots of ginger tea and salted rye cookies on hand. There are so many wonderful things in the shop for the holidays, with new things arriving weekly.  I'll point out a few of my most favorite, and also mention that we are very happy to talk you through gift ideas over a cup of tea if you come over to visit us.  

We just received new lingerie pieces, so if a beautiful silky something is on your list, now is the time.  Through this weekend, the entire lingerie collection is 25% both in-store and online using the code THANKS25.  The new Liberty prints are quite a hit, as is the black 100% silk charmeuse collection.  It's the first time we have presented a collection in black, because I am rather obsessed with color, but I have to say that I love seeing everything in this rich, lustrous black.  It really accentuates the elegant lines.  The silhouettes are universally flattering, and even more so in black as it turns out. 

One thing I am rather excited about is the newest addition to our 100% beeswax candle collection, Orange Blossom Garden.  Inspired by the intoxicating and heavenly scent of orange blossoms on a warm day and a dear friend who always smelled of them, this is a loving tribute to her.  The orange blossoms are complemented by the addition of a hint of basil, making it like a walk through a summer garden.  We have a limited edition of them available for the holidays.  They do make a wonderful gift.  

On the topic of gifts, I would like to suggest a few things if you are stuck or haven't even given it a thought yet. Our numerology rings are a chic and unique way to commemorate a special day, or special numbers.  Two entwined bands set with gemstones to symbolize whatever you would like.  I made one for myself that marks my wedding anniversary.  We were married in September, so I used blue sapphires to signify the date and month. The options are quite endless, so please let us know if you are interested in a bespoke piece.  We have a little time before the December 15th cut off for custom work.  

These new lotus leaf drop earrings would make anyone happy.  They have quickly became favorites here in the shop.  They tick quite a few boxes for me.  They are light as air, possessed of a delicate and graceful movement, and also have a lot of impact for such a modestly scaled pair of earrings.  My favorite thing in a pair of  earrings is for them to both look and feel great when worn day into night. 

I've been making necklaces with beads since I was a small child, and the process still fills me delight. In this collection, I've combined colorfully stitched strips of silk chiffon with combinations of glass trade beads for these festive necklaces.  They make very thoughtful gifts, and are all unique.  

Let's not forget the men on our lists.  Our men's sleepwear collection is quite luxurious, and something every man on your list can appreciate.  My personal favorites are the Italian cotton fine wale corduroy robes.  In either dark navy or a deep purple, they are both elegant and cozy.  

There are many more options for gift giving, and we are happy to consult with you to find the perfect thing this year.  We are open on Sundays from noon-5pm until Christmas.  Our holiday hours are:

Tuesday - Friday 11-6pm

Saturday-Sunday 12-5pm

Open Monday, December 23rd 11-6

Open Tuesday, December 24th 11-4pm

Closed Wednesday, December 25th for the holidays

Re-opening Friday January 3rd with regular hours, 11-6pm

Don't forget to take good care of yourself during this busy time of year.  I am trying to make sure I get enough rest, spend time with people I love, and to eat well.  I hope you are doing the same!

Much Love,

I know I have said this before, but at this time of year I am even more grateful than ever. With everything going on in the world, how could I not be? I am almost giddy with the anticipation of being together with family and friends to share a Thanksgiving feast. I have always loved this particular holiday. I feel like it connects me not only to the people around the table whom I adore, but also to those who are no longer here to enjoy it with us. One of our traditions is to use plates and serving pieces that belonged to my mother-in-law, who loved Thanksgiving. It feels good to connect with her through our holiday traditions.

My children are old enough now to not only sous chef in a meaningful way, but also to take the reins in decorating the table, and setting the stage for a beautiful meal. I love spending the day with them in preparation mode. Now that they're out of the house, it feels even more special to spend time together. Their closeness is something I am especially grateful for.  As siblings, my father and his sister were incredibly close. Seeing that same love and connection between my own children fills me with so much joy. It truly represents what family means on a very deep level, which in turn translates quite literally into "giving thanks" as I do not only everyday, but especially during the holiday season.

In the spirit of giving thanks, I'd like to offer a special 25% discount on all lingerie, both online and in the shop, now through November 30th. If you're shopping online, please use code THANKS25. Discount is limited to stock on hand and is not applicable to custom orders. Our holiday hours next week are Tuesday 11am - 6pm, Wednesday 11am - 4pm, Closed on Thursday, Friday 11am - 6pm, and Saturday noon - 5pm. We look forward to helping you find the perfect gift for someone you love, or a special holiday treat for yourself.

Speaking of the holiday season, the holiday party invitations are starting to roll in. I am really looking forward to seeing friends, catching up, and ringing in the season. I think these colorful tourmaline earrings would be perfect for any event. The color and movement of the loops all feel rather festive, don't they?

I also think this pearl scarf would be lovely to wear to a holiday dinner. Ropes of pearls feel very luxurious and unexpected at the same time. Pearls warm to body temperature pretty quickly, so it would be a cozy option for a chilly evening.

If you are traveling or hosting travelers, you will most certainly need a beautiful pair of pajamas to wear. We have a few sets in 100% silk charmeuse, that would be perfect to gift, or to enjoy treating yourself to. My favorite is the Liberty Print called Gracefully, which I wear out too. I pair the pajama top with trousers, and feel both chic and comfortable for any occasion. I've lately taken to flying in it, which feels perfect. The silk keeps me warm on the plane, and I add our Minerva camisole underneath for an extra layer. It's like my silken armor for travel, and I love the little bit of lace that peeks out from the camisole. 

Of course you will be in need of a hostess gift at some point over the holiday weekend, either to present to whomever is cooking those turkeys, or for yourself as a reward for a job well done. Here, I would suggest one of our silk sleep masks, along with one of our beeswax and essential oil candles. It says "thank you, I love you, and now please rest" in the most elegant way.  

I am very excited as usual for Thanksgiving dinner this year. I love hosting friends and family at our house, and the cooking always begins with this recipe from Martha Stewart. I came across it in the early 2000's when I first began hosting Thanksgiving, and it has become a tradition to begin the holiday preparations with making this recipe first. It is a zesty twist on a more traditional cranberry sauce, and I think it is far more delicious. You can play around with the proportions, and even make it with honey instead of sugar, as I often do.  

Dried Cherry + Ginger Cranberry Sauce

One 12 oz bag of fresh cranberries

3/4 cup of dried cherries

1/2 cup finely chopped shallots

2 tbs. red wine vinegar

zest and juice of one orange (about a 1/2 cup)

2 tsp. grated ginger, peeled

3/4 cup packed brown sugar (or honey, if you prefer)

Combine cranberries, cherries, shallots, vinegar, orange zest and juice, ginger, and brown sugar in a medium saucepan, and cook over medium heat until cranberries pop. Reduce heat to low; cook, stirring occasionally, until cranberries release their juices, about 15 minutes or so. If the cranberry sauce becomes too thick, add water until the desired consistency is reached. I like to cook it down quite a bit over a low heat.  I think it brings the flavors together really nicely. Transfer to a bowl to cool completely.  You can also make this ahead, and freeze.  

Happy Thanksgiving to All with tons of Love, Love, Love,

PS I hope you save the date for Wednesday, December 4th. We will be having our annual holiday party with our next door neighbor, Pamela Barish. It will be festive as always....looking forward to seeing you! 

Right now it feels especially good to invest in and wear pieces that are particularly meaningful and personal. Don't you agree? I have been thinking of this quite a bit lately. In general, I am definitely more considered and more selective about what I want to bring into my life, and know that I am not alone in feeling this way. Fine jewelry is a luxury, so it should have meaning as well as exist as an object of beauty. I also believe in the talismanic quality of jewelry. Important pieces can quickly become an amulet that one feels adrift without, therefore it rings true that these pieces should be more personal in a substantial and considered way. I've always thought of my jewelry as a kind of armor, which in today's world feels even more essential. Also, gold is good for you, in case you didn't know.

Spending time with people you love, and in places you feel connected to also happens to be good for you. I am so fortunate to have been able to do exactly that last month in Spain. I fulfilled my mission to see the exquisite Balenciaga and Spanish Painting exhibition at the Museo Nacional Thyssen-Borneimsza before it closes this weekend, and was able to also enjoy tuning out the rest of the world in beautiful Mallorca. To be able to rest and recharge in nature with my loves is truly a gift. 

With this in mind, I've been working on a collection of pieces to honor the people I love, and allow them to be with me symbolically whether they are physically close or geographically far. Personally, I am feeling the need to gather my dear ones near to my heart. This feeling is clearly universal. For one lovely woman, I created this diamond necklace using her family's stones. One representing each person in her nuclear family. She now wears these stones from another generation in her family that represent the family she has created. It makes for a timeless future heirloom to be passed down to her daughters. For another, I created a necklace to represent a couple, and also the baby they are excited to welcome early next year.  

For myself, I'm working on a piece with opal, tourmaline, emerald, and aquamarine to represent my family, throwing in a diamond and a pearl for good measure, as I love them so. I think I may also add sapphires to represent some of my dear Virgo friends.  Really, there are no rules or boundaries, and it has been so much fun to come up with different combinations of stones for not only necklaces, but bracelets, rings, and earrings as well. These pieces will be mostly custom, and part of a Family Constellation series.  Since the nature of this collection is so personal, I suggest calling or sending an email to schedule an appointment for a consultation.  It's been such a pleasure to work with clients to create these beautiful and treasured heirlooms.  

If this resonates with you and you'd like to explore the options further, I look forward to hearing from you. Remember that these are custom pieces, and may take a bit of time to come to fruition, so I will just remind you that there are less than 100 days until Christmas.  (Hint, hint...)

I always love it when we receive new Liberty of London fabrics to work with.  There is something genuinely special about them.  I love the history associated with the company, the collaborations with integral artists and designers of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, and how many of the prints from this fertile period are still manufactured today.  There is a timelessness to the prints that I am drawn to, and I so enjoy seeing them layered together, as I do in our print-block kimono style Asteria and Selene robes.

We also still have a limited stock of their incredible crinkled silk chiffon.  It is no longer manufactured, which is such a shame.  It makes it all the more special, of course.  I love it for the Thea slip and matching robe. 

Please save the date for Thursday, October 10th.  We are planning a little early fall party, with our lovely neighbor Pamela Barish. Last year around this time, we hosted a cocktail party and served variations of olive oil cake. This time I'm thinking of doing a little chocolate cake tasting.  I'm also thinking of switching up a few tried and true recipes. I have been making flourless chocolate cakes in some form or another for over two decades. Peter's birthday is coming up, and I've been making him the same Fallen Chocolate Soufflé Cake from David Waltuck since before we were married. It might be time to try a new one, and hopefully you will be able to join us and let me know which one is the best. I'm thinking of substituting pistachios for almonds in the River Cafe's Chocolate Almond Cake recipe, which I think will be delicious.

I'm still cooking like it's summer, because frankly it still feels like it is.  This olive-oil poached tuna steak is lovely and easy, and perfectly captures the season.  It's also very forgiving, as you can use whatever herbs and aromatics that you have on hand.  This is the version I've been making lately.  

Olive Oil Poached Tuna Steaks

One large tuna steak, or two small to fit in a small saucepan

2-3 whole garlic cloves

1 or 2 slices of fennel bulb

3-4 sprigs of fresh dill

1 tsp. black peppercorns

a pinch of red chile pepper flakes

a slice of lemon rind

1 dried bay leaf

1 tsp. of crushed fennel seeds

Pinch of kosher salt

enough olive oil to cover the fish

Lemon to serve

Place all ingredients in a small saucepan, and warm gently to poach the fish until desired doneness.  You want it to cook slowly, without allowing the oil to boil. Test the fish when it becomes opaque.  I like it when then center is still pink.  Gently lift the fish out of the oil, squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the top, and season with salt and pepper before serving.  

 Enjoy,

Well I suppose the last sweet days of summer are upon us.  This is the moment where I take stock of where I've been, what I've seen, and what I still want to do while the sun is shining brightly and the days are long.  I traveled quite a bit in early summer, and had the good fortune to be in London in June, blessedly missing the scorching heat wave.  I had the opportunity to see dear friends, make new ones, and catch some lovely exhibitions.  The Lee Krasner exhibition at the Barbican Centre is simply wonderful.  Also dreamy is the Leonardo da Vinci at the Queen's Gallery, as well as one of my most favorite artists Joaquin Sorolla at the National Gallery.  His paintings capture the light, the sea, and the essence of family that make me feel exactly like summer.  

Nothing embodies the essence of summer quite like the parks in London.   On a beautiful day, it is the loveliest experience to have a little wander, which is exactly what I did.

I was also lucky enough to catch the last day of Sarah Wheeler's charming show, Bloom Away, featuring a beautiful collection of botanical photographs. I love floral representation in all forms, so it was especially nice to see such a thoughtfully curated selection of images. The Dior exhibition at the V&A is indeed sublime, and such a wonderful treat.  The quality of the craftsmanship, and the inventiveness of the designers over the last 73 years is quite an inspiration. The whole installation is incredible, spanning so many different aspects of the house of Dior, and showcasing the depth of talent that has played a hand in some of the most iconic designs of the last several decades.

I am so grateful to be embarking on a quick, end-of-summer getaway to Spain. The perfect contrast to a busy city trip is time spent under a tree, or on a beach, which is exactly what I need after the stimulation of early summer in London.  I'm packing one of our new cotton/silk blend robes and slips for sleeping, and a few other cotton pieces for wearing over swimsuits or slips for daytime.  We have the cotton/silk robes and slips in matching sets in the shop, perfect for the August heat.  The fabric feels deliciously light and cool on the skin.  

Packing jewelry for a trip is a task I always quite enjoy.  For a beach holiday, a bright pair of earrings, some turquoise and coral pieces, and a few beaded necklaces always make it into my jewelry case.  We have new silk chiffon ribbons that we've added beads to, which look lovely tied in a variety of ways.  I love them for a pop of color and texture, and am definitely taking them along.  They also make perfect gifts, so I plan to pack a few extra to give to friends on our trip. 

Two summers ago in Mallorca, I complimented a chic and lovely woman on her straw bag at dinner.  At the end of the evening, she took her belongings out of the bag as they were leaving, and insisted that I accept it as a gift.  It was such a lovely gesture, and I've enjoyed it all the more for it.  I hope to see her again soon, and am packing a little something special for her, just in case I do.  

You may have seen the nice article that Martha McCully wrote for the Home section of the Los Angeles Times in June. I so enjoyed spending the day with Martha, taking her to my favorite shops in Los Angeles, and shopping for tabletop items that make entertaining such a joyful, creative process for me.  I do love feeding people, and setting a beautiful table is certainly an important part of that love.  I never entertain without these uniquely gorgeous table linens from Gregory Parkinson, which you can find at Turpan. The Makoto Kagoshima and Juba Tenshin ceramics that we have collected over the years from Chariots on Fire always have a place on our table. No meal is complete without an assortment of Milla Chocolates, and stopping by their jewel box of a shop on Venice Boulevard is a true delight. There is always something special at Tortoise General Store, which is an excellent source for gifts of all kinds. 

Summer dessert is always easy, with all of the amazing stone fruit we have here in Southern California.  One doesn't really have to do more than serve a bowl of fruit over ice and let guests enjoy, so don't ask me why I had a bee in my bonnet about making the Lemon Tart from The River Cafe in London.  Perhaps it's because I had it in June, and it just was so delicious that it stuck with me.  It could also be, that I remember that lemon tart from Michel Richard on Robertson Boulevard from my early days of living in Los Angeles, and how it was absolutely THE perfect ending to every remotely memorable dinner party. I can't really say, and though I wasn't able to source the Amalfi lemons, what I found from Apricot Lane Farms at the farmer's market last Sunday were in no sense second rate.  Be warned, this recipe is not for the faint of heart.  The amount of butter feels almost obscene, but fear not.  The results are so spectacular, that your guests will remember the deliciousness for a long long time to come.

The River Cafe Lemon Tart

For the Pastry:

2.5 cups flour

2 sticks butter, cold and cut into small cubes

3/4 cup sifted Confectioner's sugar

3 egg yolks

pinch sea salt

Place flour, butter, sugar, and pinch of sea salt in a food processor.  Pulse until it resembles coarse meal, then add the egg yolks and pulse a few times, until it comes together.  Pat into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least an hour.

Grate into a 12 inch tart pan with a removable bottom, and press the dough along the bottom and sides.  Place a sheet of buttered parchment paper over the dough, and fill with dried beans, rice, or pie weights.  

Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes, and then remove the parchment and weights.  Bake another 10-15 minutes until golden brown.  Let cool completely.

For the Lemon Filling:

Zest and juice of 7 large lemons

1.5 cups granulated sugar

6 whole eggs, plus 9 egg yolks

2.5 sticks unsalted butter at room temperature

Place zest, lemon juice, sugar, and eggs in a large saucepan over a very low heat, whisking constantly until sugar is dissolved, and eggs are broken up.

Add half the butter and continue to whisk. At this point the eggs will start to cook, and the mixture will thicken enough to coat the back of a spoon. Add remaining butter and continue whisking until mixture becomes very thick. It is important to keep whisking throughout the cooking process to prevent mixture from curdling.  

Remove pan from heat and set it on a cold heatproof surface. Continue to whisk until mixture is lukewarm. 

Preheat broiler, and spoon lemon filling into pastry shell and let settle for a least 5 minutes. Broil until top is mottled brown, 3 to 5 minutes. You may want to cover the edges of the crust with a little aluminum foil, to prevent it from blackening.  Let cool completely before serving.

Enjoy,

Everyone likes a stacking ring, and collecting them can become a delightful and lifelong pursuit.  It's such a personal endeavor, and so meaningful to find just the perfect ring to pair with an existing favorite.  We have a lovely selection, in many different stones and shapes, and are always happy to make suggestions.

I've been wearing flower earrings every single day now for quite some time.  The studs are especially charming, and would make a delightful gift.  These are also part of our Mother's Day promotion, and are currently eligible for a 20% discount.  I am especially fond of the black diamond and blue sapphire pair.  They feel really unique and unexpected, while looking so pretty and feminine on the ear.  

I think we will do Mother's Day dinner this year, so in the morning it will be nice to keep it simple.  I like to make almond milk every week, and one of nicest things about having it around is the ability to make delicious overnight oats.  It's easy enough to do, and such a treat to have on hand, especially for houseguests.  I assemble it in the morning, after making the almond milk, and then we have it for breakfast the next day.  You can play around with the proportions, or substitute a different kind of dried fruit, for instance.  It's a very forgiving recipe.  

Overnight Oats

1 cup old fashioned oats

1/2 cup raisins

1/4 cup dried, shredded, unsweetened coconut

1/4 cup sprouted pumpkin seeds

1 tbs. maple syrup

1/4 tsp cinnamon

generous pinch sea salt

1 1/2 cups freshly made almond milk 

Mix together all dry ingredients in a glass container with an airtight lid.  Pour over almond milk, and maple syrup, then mix to combine.  The dry ingredients should be completely immersed in the almond milk. You can experiment with how much liquid you prefer, as it isn't really an exact science.  Cover and refrigerate overnight.  I like to serve it with a handful of mixed berries, or a spoonful of jam.

Enjoy,