by Randy Dunbar
Celebrating 20 years of design excellence, HD Buttercup makes a triumphant return as they unveil the newly renovated HD Buttercup Design Center.
This 100,000-square-
foot space, situated in the iconic Helms Bakery, has undergone a complete transformation.
The newly unveiled Design Center offers flexible shop-in-shop spaces tailored to renowned
brands in its expansive layout. Featuring the flagship store of Coco Republic, the inaugural
location of Fred Segal Home, Timothy Oulton’s newly reimagined space, Icon By Design’s debut
store from Australia, and Vondom, a high-end outdoor furniture company hailing from Spain.
Noteworthy additions also include a newly designed bedding department, consisting of luxury
lines such as Matouk, Coyuchi, John Robshaw, Pom Pom at Home; establishing it as Los Angeles’
premier bed linens destination. The HD Buttercup Design Center will also feature a curated
5,000-square-foot space dedicated to rugs.
Anchoring the HD Buttercup Design Center will be the 27,000-square-foot Coco Republic
flagship. Coco Republic, a design-led lifestyle brand established in Australia in 1979, brings a
sophisticated attention to detail and a timeless aesthetic to the forefront. Inspired by global
design and architecture, Coco Republic is committed to bringing design to life worldwide. The
Culver City flagship embodies Coco Republic’s vision, fostering inspiring, memorable, and
functional spaces.
HD Buttercup Design Center promises a dynamic and ever-evolving experience for design
enthusiasts. Products and partners will continue to expand over time. Monthly activations,
including art galleries, speaker series, and rotating pop-ups will keep the shopping experience
lively and compelling.
HD Buttercup Design Center
3225 Helms Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90034
P/ 213.223.9800
https://hdbuttercup.com/
by Dennis Richardson
What feels like the longest month of the year is rapidly approaching its end, and that can only mean two things: the season of love nears and so does the Super Bowl. Valentine’s Day and the big game are right around the corner and demand is high for the perfect gifts, events, and activities to create memorable occasions. Check out our roundup below for everything taking place in the lead up to Valentine’s Day and Game Day – from everything suitable for friends to the ultimate annual date night. Spoil them in the days before or the day of, but don’t miss out on the restaurant rundown for some killer offers!
Attend A Super Bowl Watch Party @ The OG Cannabis Cafe – February 11
The OG Cannabis Cafe just re-opened to the public, new and improved — and what better way to celebrate than with a Super Bowl Watch Party hosted by MMA Fighter Nick Diaz?! Round up your guys or gals for the ultimate game day watch party, featuring bud, bites, and game day specials. In addition, attendees can expect games, bets, and prizes with the best seats around.
The Super Bowl Watch Party @ the OG Cannabis Cafe kicks off on February 11, at 3 pm. Call (323) 452-9029 or visit their website to make a reservation. More details and information for on games and specials can be found on their Instagram, at @ogcannabiscafe.
OG Cannabis Cafe is located at 1201 N La Brea Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90038.
Explore Alto’s Date Night Offers For The Perfect Date
For one of the most romantic nights of the year, there is a lot of stress that comes with planning the perfect Valentine’s day date. Luckily, Alto is stepping in to help set the mood for the evening: luxurious and loved-up. With February 14th quickly approaching, it’s time to break up with your bad rideshare, and book a better ride for date night. And with these exclusive Valentine’s Day offers, choosing Alto as your ride of choice is a no-brainer:
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Between February 9th and 18th, Alto will be offering 20% off of 2 rides for your ideal date night
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There will also be a limited edition Love Notes “vibe” in all of their cars, thoughtfully curated by Alto members themselves, to create an intimate ambiance in the vehicle
In addition Alto has partnered with five incredible brands to help you achieve your new year goals with luxury and ease.
Courtesy: Alto
Below are just a few of Alto’s new lifestyle member perks with these iconic brands:
- alo moves: Start your year off with
a free 3-month of
Alo Moves membership
- Tuckernuck: Take 15% off sitewide through the month
of January
- Moon Juice: Take 25% off all products
- Kroma Wellness: Take 20% off the
entire store
- Superhuman: Get your free 6 week membership
Whether you’re looking to level-up your wardrobe this winter or take a new approach to self-care, Alto is dedicated to working with like-minded brands to ensure they are always promoting the wellbeing of their customers.
Book A Night At The Viv Hotel & A Romantic Rooftop Dinner at The V Rooftop Restaurant – February 9, 10, and 10 – 17
How’s a romantic stay at a nearby hotel for Valentine goals? The Viv Hotel & Top of The V Restaurant are offering a couple of packages sure to woo your boo, complete with champagne, roses, and all the lovey-dovey expectations.
On February 9, 10, and 14 – 17 those interested can check out the Romance Package which can be added to reservations when booked through Open Table. The Romance Package includes a 1/2 dozen roses and 2 glasses of Sparkling Cava. In addition, the Valentine’s Dinner Pre-Fixe is available and sure to sell out. This package is a romantic three course dinner, curated by Executed Chef Nathaniel McCoy, along with Rooftop Anaheim Skyline Views. The two-hour dining experiences only priced at $85 per person, so book while you can!
Make your reservation, here.
Make A Valentine’s Day Dream Come True with Hotel Figueroa
The coveted and beloved Hotel Figueroa is a spectacle at any time of year, but when it comes to Valentine’s Day this year, many people’s ultimate dreams will come true. DTLA’s Hotel Figueroa and their new ‘Lovers Cityscape Package’ is the treat to please them all — creating an experience that reels in the romance through an urban retreat. Catch all the details below:
Credit: Robiee Ziegler
Helicopter Over Los Angeles through Hotel Figueroa (Downtown L.A.)
Cozy up at DTLA’s urban oasis Hotel Figueroa, offering an idyllic setting for a romantic Los Angeles getaway without leaving town, where couples can cozy up with cocktails fireside in the hotel’s lively lobby lounge, or book the hotel’s special ‘Lovers Cityscape Package’ available during the entire month of February 2024, which includes:
- A two-night retreat in their vibrant Featured Artist Suite
- Upon arrival, all couples will enjoy a bottle of Veuve Clicquot and a delectable array of pastries and baked goods from L.A.-based bakeshop, Flouring LA
- Take your love to new heights as you take in the sights with a 90-minute helicopter tour of Los Angeles with Star Helicopters (a perfect proposal experience!)
- Breakfast at our all-day eatery, Café Fig
- Enjoy the luxury of a 2pm late check-out
- Pricing: $2,500
Credit: Robiee Ziegler
For those who prefer to savor the excitement of the helicopter tour at a later date, this activity is redeemable until 12/30/2024 (excluding backout dates), and transfers to/from the ride are not included. The Lovers Cityscape package can be booked online by emailing sales@hotelfigueroa.com.
Get Them a Love Box of Maya’s Brigadeiro featuring Kasey Jones Ink
What’s better than a bouquet of roses and a box of chocolates? Maya’s Brigadeiro, and that is not an exaggeration! Gift your Valentine or your gals and pals what is truly one of the best sweets to be found in Los Angeles. The cherry on top of this year’s Valentine’s Day offering is that Maya’s Brigadeiro has collaborated with Kasey Jones Ink, whose work can be seen throughout the city, infusing color and energy into brand identities and campaigns.
Maya’s Brigadeiro is offering an variety of assorted Love Boxes, starting with:
- Large Box– This box contains two dozen (24 pieces) brigadeiros topped with red hearts and wrapped in a custom hand-drawn sleeve designed by Kasey Jones Ink. Includes 4 flavors: Coconut, Classic Chocolate, Sweet Milk, and Coffee. Don’t forget to add a card to your order for even more added personalization! If ordering online, Maya’s Brigadeiro will even hold the order so it can arrive on Valentine’s Day.
- Medium Box– This box contains almost all the same goodness of the large box, but with only a dozen (12 pieces) brigadeiros. This Love Box is also wrapped in a custom hand-drawn sleeve designed by Kasey Jones Ink. Includes 4 flavors: Coconut, Classic Chocolate, Sweet Milk, and Coffee.
- Small Box– The smallest of the 3, this cutesy box contains 6 brigadeiros, and is wrapped in a small custom hand-drawn sleeve designed by Kasey Jones Ink. Includes 2 flavors: Chocolate and Sweet Milk
Cure Their Sweet Tooth with Last Crumb x Beverly Hills Hotel Cookies
Does your sweetie have a sweet tooth, or maybe you’re looking for delicious snacks for your friends? Last Crumb has partnered with The Beverly Hills Hotel to create an iconic cookie collection that’s as rich in flavor as the hotel’s history is in tales.
Each cookie in this bespoke box is a celebration of a timeless era, a bite-sized journey through the glamor and allure that has defined the hotel for over a century. The partnership presents an edible anthology of The Beverly Hills Hotel’s storied past, baked with Last Crumb’s innovative spirit.
The cookie collection is available for $160 on LastCrumb.com and in the hotel’s Signature Shop and online gift shop. It includes two of the following six flavors:
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THE OG (Chocolate Chip) – Inspired by Margaret Anderson, the visionary hotelier who shaped Beverly Hills. This flavor captures her unwavering determination and impeccable taste
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PAUL’S PB (Peanut Butter) – Inspired by the architectural genius Paul Revere Williams, PAUL’S PB pays homage to his transformative touch on the hotel.
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GOLDEN AGE (Lemon) – Inspired by the luminous Marilyn Monroe, who graced the bungalows with her presence, this zesty delight was baked to capture her timeless allure.
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CADILLAC CRUNCH (Cinnamon Toast Crunch) – Inspired by hotel resident Howard Hughes who left his untouched Cadillac parked on Crescent Street.
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BANANA AP-PEEL (Banana Cream Pie) – Inspired by the iconic Martinique® banana leaf wallpaper that adorns the hotel’s halls
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RED CARPET (Red Velvet) – Inspired by the hotel’s signature crimson carpet
Keep The Bubbly Nights Alive Past Valentine’s Day with Kloveo
Planning a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner with champagne? Ensure you use the Kloveo champagne stopper to preserve your bottle! This exquisite tool is perfect for keeping your champagne fresh for later enjoyment. Its chrome-plated stainless steel body and hinge construction make it the most durable sparkling wine stopper on the market.
Find it on Amazon and make your Valentine’s Day celebration extra special!
Credit: Kloveo
Shop Solento Tequila for the Slow Sipper in Your Life
Smooth and easy flavor are a couple of ways to describe
Solento Organic Tequila. which makes it
a must have for any Valentine’s Day Soiree!
Credit: Solento Organic Tequila
Growing slowly under the Mexican sun for seven years, the USDA certified organic 100% blue agave is harvested in small batches from a single estate in Jalisco. Offerings include Blanco, Reposado
and Anejo.
Solento starts at $32.99
Shop the organic smoothness for your Valentine,
here.
Shop Off Hours For the Bourbon Connoisseur
You don’t have to look too hard to find the perfect gift.
Credit: Emma Bassill
Off Hours Bourbon makes things a whole lot easier.
Gift them Off Hours Bourbon, the award-winning, new, smooth bourbon – the perfect sip for relaxing with your favorite sweetheart. Pour it straight up, on the rocks, or use in your favorite recipe while you enjoy each other’s company on a night made for connections!
Prices range from $46.99 to $64.99, with gift sets also available ranging from $118.97 to $126.87. Shop here!
Maintain Your Health & Wellness Together with Super Patch
Along with the new work out routines and ways that you’re looking out for your health, there’s a brand that could help you and your gals, pals, or love this Valentine’s Day. Meet Super Patch, t
he up-and-coming wellness brand providing drug-free, non-invasive solutions that offer the same physical benefits as traditional, over-the-counter alternatives— but without all of the villainous side effects.
Courtesy: Super Patch
A revolution in the old patchwork wellness market, Super Patch utilizes the skin as the gateway to the body’s neural pathways by relying on ultra-fine ridges that function like braille for the brain, skillfully targeting receptors and “ion channels” in the skin. Crafted for those who seek cutting-edge solutions for optimal well-being, these patches are designed to enhance specific aspects of health and performance. Scientifically proven technology you can trust, with results you can feel.
Their best sellers include:
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Defend – A healthy immune system is a key factor of overall health. Defend Patch is a non-invasive and drug-free technology that may support immunity through vibrotactile stimulation -making it easier to maintain overall health.
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Joy – The Joy Super Patch is a non-invasive and drug-free technology that may improve sense of wellness and happiness through vibrotactile stimulation allowing users to naturally feel their best!
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Ignite – Balancing calories consumed and calories burned are key factors for maintaining a healthy weight. The Ignite Patch is a non-invasive and drug free technology that helps support energy consumption – making it easier to maintain overall health.
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Focus – The Focus Patch is a non-invasive and drug-free technology that may improve general wellness through vibrotactile stimulation allowing users to naturally experience improved focus and clarity.
Happening at Westfield Topanga & Century City:
Westfield shopping locations are notorious for having a plethora of activity options for everyone! Whether it’s fun to-do’s for the kiddos, dining options for date, or endless shopping possibilities for any occasion, Westfield Topanga and Westfield Century City have something for everyone. Impress your Hinge match, try something new with your long-term partner, or get ahead of your Valentine’s Day reservations with the options below!
Westfield Topanga
More on Pinstripes Topanga’s Big Game Offers
Pinstripes Topanga stands out as an excellent spot to catch all the action of the Big Game, thanks to its impressive setup of large-screen TVs scattered throughout the venue. The immersive viewing experience ensures that every guest has a prime seat to witness the excitement of the Big Game. Beyond the thrilling atmosphere where guests can bowl and play bocce, Pinstripes offers a chef-driven Italian-American cuisine that elevates the Super Bowl experience.
Guests can indulge in the World-Famous Delectable Chicken Wings ($16), featuring incredible ingredients like balsamic BBQ, sweet chili glaze and spicy calabrese. For those craving a hearty meal, the Bistro Burger ($19) served with certified Angus beef, sharp cheddar, tomato, romaine, shallot mayo and housemade pickles, served between a brioche bun, promises a mouthwatering delight. At Pinstripes Topanga, the combination of a vibrant atmosphere and delectable menu options makes it the perfect destination for an unforgettable football celebration.
Valley Food Truck Festival @ Westfield Topanga – February 8, 6-9pm
Valley Food Truck Festival at Topanga Social will be bringing 10 of LA’s best gourmet food trucks together for an exciting culinary crawl,
live entertainment, and more! A food lover’s paradise, the Valley Food Truck Festival will offer a diverse selection of
food trucks with something for everyone – satisfy your taste buds with a variety of mouth-watering street food.
The event will take place at The Topanga Social parking lot at Westfield Topanga (6600 CA-27 #9038, Canoga Park, CA 91303)
Ground level, in front of the Margarita Garden off of Victory Blvd. and guests can RSVP for free!
Catch the rundown of food trucks and live entertainment below!
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- Food Trucks:
- Rice Balls of Fire
- CHD Mandu
- The Tropic Truck
- Kalamaki Street Food
- Creole Kings
- Malibu Cove
- Kyoto Hibachi
- Birrieria El Patron 818
- Wings N Waffles
- Drizzle OC
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- Live Entertainment:
- Live Band Performance: 6-9pm in front of Rock & Reilly’s
- Live DJ Set: 6-9pm in the Margarita Garden
- Magic & Cocktails Performers: 7-9pm at Rock & Reilly’s
NEW: JINYA Ramen
JINYA Ramen’s new flagship location, at Westfield Topanga opens on January 28th, making it the perfect date night option before or during Valentine’s Day! Slurp up noodles,
Founded in 2010 by Tomo Takahashi, JINYA Ramen is a highly acclaimed Japanese Ramen restaurant and the new JINYA in Topanga marks the brand’s eighth restaurant in California and nearly its 60th location nationwide, truly showcasing itself as the fastest-growing ramen concept in the country.
Westfield Century City
Experience Sony Honda Mobility’s AFEELA – February 2-26
How often is it that you get to experience a prototype vehicle? Get excited, because Sony Honda Mobility is launching an exclusive four-week pop-up event at Westfield Century City, showcasing the innovative prototype of AFEELA!
This immersive pop-up will be open to the public from 11 AM to 6 PM daily, and spots can be reserved online here. Guests will experience a customized demonstration of the prototype tailored to their specific interests and requests, and can expect to see a range of revolutionary features, including personalized media bar, an in-cabin panoramic screen, immersive audio, and much more.
The pop-up will be located at the first floor Atrium Pop-Up at Westfield Century City. Tickets can be reserved here.
About Sony Honda Mobility:
Sony Honda Mobility Inc. is a Japanese joint venture automotive company established by Sony Group Corporation and Honda Motor Co., Ltd. in 2022 to lead innovation in the mobility industry through joint development and sales of high value-added electric vehicles (EVs), and creating a business to provide mobility services.
Restaurant Rundown
Fogo de Chão
For many, a new year means New Year’s resolutions and a renewed interest in health and wellness. Add budgeting to the mix and it’s a whole new slate, but the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the latest from Fogo de Chão, Woodland Hills — especially for Valentine’s Day!
If you’re looking to customize your dining experience to fit a new health-centric lifestyle, Fogo de Chão invites you to discover its Select Cuts menu offering in Woodland Hills – at just $37! It’s the perfect match, especially heading into Valentine’s Day and Carnival season, which Fogo is known for celebrating with their own special offerings.
Courtesy: Fogo de Chão
The Select Cuts menu provides guests with their choice of a preferred, fire-roasted protein carved tableside including prized favorites like Picanha, Fraldinha, and Bisteca de Porco (Double Chop Pork Chop), paired with the nutrient-dense Market Table featuring seasonal salads, fresh vegetables, charcuterie and more, and Brazilian side dishes.
Make reservations soon to take advantage of this opportunity, and also to beat everyone else as Fogo de Chão Woodland Hills gets filled up quickly!
Valentine’s Day Dinner
Date: Wednesday, February 14th
Offering: Chef John Fraser’s produce-forward restaurant Ardor, located at The West Hollywood EDITION Hotel, will be serving a special three-course dinner featuring some of Chef Fraser’s signature dishes, as well as some Valentine’s specialties such as oysters with a strawberry mignonette sauce, chestnut ravioli with house-made pasta, Hen of the Wood mushrooms, and truffle Cacio e Pepe, a halibut with a citrus buerre blanc, sunchoke, crumble, and a green papaya and chayote salad, and more. Reservations can be made via OpenTable, here.
Price: $120 per person
Courtesy: Ardor
Date: Wednesday, 2/14 and Thursday – Sunday (2/15-2/18)
Offering: The holistic, live-fire and multi-sensory restaurant by chef Jordan Kahn of the two-Michelin-starred Vespertine will be offering a prix-fixe menu on Valentine’s Day and through the following Thursday-Sunday, with a variety of experiences based on your choice of seating.
Reservations can be made via OpenTable, here.
Price: $95-$295
Date: Wednesday, February 14th
Offering: Since opening this past spring, La Dolce Vita has been one of the hottest reservations in Beverly Hills and will be serving a multi-course prix-fixe menu this Valentine’s Day with a wine pairing addition by sommelier Gabriel Perez.
More details will be available soon and reservations can be made via Resy, here.
Photo Credit: Shelby Moore
Date: Wednesday, February 14th
Offering: Found Oyster’s Executive Chef + Partner Ari Kolender’s Queen St. is a culinary homage to raw and wood-fired seafood, drawing inspiration from Chef Kolender’s native Charleston. This Valentine’s Day be sure to enjoy Queen St.’s pristine raw bar offerings, such as Maine Diver scallop crudo with a rhubarb and bay leaf migonette, oysters galore, and some a la carte favorites such as chicken-fried swordfish hemingway and yellowfin tuna frites, the perfect meal for a laid back Valentine’s Day date.
Reservations can be made via Resy, here, and walk-ins are available.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Los Angeles’ Italian food institution Little Dom’s with sweet treats by Pastry Chef Ann Kirk. including Valentine’s Zeppoles with chocolate sauce and her classic Valentine’s Sugar Cookies. Both are available for pick-up and as a sweet dessert during dine-in dinners.
Courtesy: Little Dom’s
Spend Valentine’s Day under an umbrella of twinkly lights intertwined between the vines of a large tree in Mírate’s open-air dining room. From Friday, February 9 – Saturday, February 17, the “Alta-California” Mexican restaurant is offering a pre-fixe dinner priced at $130 per couple. To begin, sip on an Aphrodisiac Tea Amuse-Bouche followed by a choice of Truffle and Artichoke Tostada or Kampachi Aguachile Tatemado.
Enjoy either a 6oz Beef Tenderloin Asada and Butter Poached Lobster Tail, Grilled ½ Chicken or Roasted Cauliflower with a side choice of Spicy Roasted Carrots or Tamarind Sweet Potatoes. To end the night, choose from Hoja Santa Meringue or Mezcal Flan Brulee. Specialty cocktails will also be available, including a cocktail served in a bowl for two.
Courtesy: Ardor
For those looking for a romantic, beach getaway, zinc@shade, located inside The Shade Hotel Manhattan Beach, is offering a Valentine’s Day menu from Wednesday, February 14 – Sunday, February 18. Couples can enjoy table-side magic by Joel Ward while enjoying White Arugula Citrus Salad & Ricotta Salata, Baked Lobster Tail and Kurobuta Pork Chop followed by Chocolate Covered Long Stem Strawberries for dessert.
Situated right on the water in Redondo Beach with views from Palos Verdes to Malibu, Sea Level Restaurant & Lounge at The Shade Hotel Redondo Beach is offering a handful of dinner specials for the picture-perfect Valentine’s Day dinner. From Wednesday, February 14 – Sunday, February 18 indulge in specials like Heirloom Beet Carpaccio, Surf and Turf, Strawberries and Cream Puff and Unclassic Red Velvet Cake along with specialty cocktails Between the Sheets, Love or Lust and Fallen Hard for You.
Ladyhawk | West Hollywood
This Valentine’s Day, Ladyhawk will be spreading the love by pouring complimentary samples of 2022 Rescue Rosé, rosé of Pinot Noir, Monterey, California in partnership with Rescue Rosé. Part of the proceeds of Los Angeles-based fashion stylist Nola Singer’s Rescue Rosé organization go to local 501 (c)3 non-profit animal charities (because what is better than blending animal rescue work with delectable California wines on Wine Wednesday?). In addition to lots of wine and animal love, guests can explore the restaurant’s exceptional Eastern Mediterranean dishes, drinks, and desserts.
Courtesy: Ladyhawk
On February 14, the iconic 100-year-old Spanish Villa situated atop of the Palos Verdes Hills is hosting a reservation-only dinner. Enjoy a sunset cocktail house and chef-curated three-course meal and wine pairing experience in La Venta Inn’s romantic dining rooms overlooking the sparkling Los Angeles skyline. Seatings at 5pm and 7pm.
Surprise your loved one this Valentine’s Day with the ultimate romantic gesture – a Shade vacation! Shade Hotel Redondo Beach’s exclusive Valentine’s Day package incudes a bottle of Mumm Champagne and a $295 gift card ensuring an unforgettable escape.
Book a romantic beach getaway for you and your special someone at Shade Hotel Manhattan Beach. The Valentine’s package includes a bottle of Mumm Champagne and a $395 gift card.
Coastal California Glamour and Sensational Sips at the Lobby Lounge
Exuding glamor and a chic but relaxed California coastal vibe where expertly mixed craft cocktails are the star of the show, the Lobby Lounge will be offering a three-course pre-fixed and a la carte menu including menu highlights such as Chicken & Truffle Agnolotti ($23), Salmon Wellington with Crab Ragout ($42), and Beef Striploin and Seared Scallop Surf & Turf ($58). For those exemplifying a more mindful and health-conscious approach to Valentine’s Day, guests can savor in their new free-spirited beverage menu. Reservations can be made via Resy.
Farm-to-Table Local Cuisine at FIG Restaurant
Helmed by Executive Chef Damon Gordon, FIG Restaurant’s ultra-seasonal and locally sourced ingredient-driven menu is replete with heritage-inspired dishes, shareable plates, and tableside offerings this Valentine’s Day. In addition the normal dinner menu, seasonally-driven specials will also be offered including Slow-cooked Octopus ($32), New Zealand Wagyu Tenderloin with Truffled Sweet Potato ($62), and Chilled Beausoleil Oysters with Saltwater Foam and Caviar ($34). Reservations can be made via Resy.
Credit: Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows
‘Galentine’s Day’ Afternoon High Tea (Saturday, February 10 & Sunday, February 11)
For those looking to celebrate their female friendships in style, the property will be offering four specialty ‘Galentine’s Day tea services on Saturday, February 10 and Sunday, February 11 at 12:00pm and 3:00pm in the enchanting Library and Ocean Terrace. Guests will spend the afternoon sipping and swirling via the whimsical three-course menu, featuring an elegant spread of sumptuous scones, exquisite pastries, and finger sandwiches designed to pair with a vast selection of freshly brewed Lot 35 loose-leaf teas from Fairmont Miramar’s exclusive luxury tea collection, served on brand-new garden-inspired Bernardaud porcelain. Tickets ($95 pp) are required and can be purchased via Resy.
Credit: Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows
L.A.’s Intimate 8-Seat Sushi Bar, Soko
Tucked inside the property lives some of the West Side’s best 8-seater sushi bar, Soko – ideal for an intimate sushi experience where you can revel in the freshest fish available in authentic preparations. Helmed by veteran Sushi Chef Masa Shimakawa, Soko is a tribute to the humble origins of sushi with SoCal sensibilities within a stunning luxury beachside locale, offering a one-of-a-kind personal and convivial atmosphere. The new Omakase Menu features a 6-course chef’s choice experience ($185) with $50 optional sake pairings including menu highlights such as Hime Sazae Conch and Ankimo Crème Brûlée and Chilled Maine Lobster Cocktail. Reservations can be made via Resy.
In Case You Missed It
Solento Tequila Celebrates with Portugal. The Man – February 2
Portugal. The Man celebrated with Solento Organic Tequila following their show at The Sound in Del Mar, CA on Friday night! Portugal. The Man helped decide on the flavor profile of Solento! The photo below illustrates how the celebration went, with the aftermath showcasing an empty bottle. Fun!
Credit: Solento Organic Tequila
Keep The New Year’s Resolutions Going Strong: Flow Into Strong with Alex Silver-Fagan at The Park Santa Monica – January 28
Alex Silver-Fagan, will be hosting a rooftop fitness session next Sunday 1/28 at 12PM at The Park Santa Monica. Tickets to attend the class are being sold for $10 HERE – all of which will be directly donated to No Kid Hungry.
Courtesy: The Park Santa Monica
Alex’s signature class, Flow Into Strong, harmoniously blends yoga, strength, and breathwork for yogis and non-yogis alike – helping bridge the gap between mind, body and spirit. As an opportunity to slow down and practice mindfulness, enjoy sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean atop The Park’s unparalleled rooftop fitness space.
When: Sunday, January 28th, 2024
Time: Class begins promptly at 12:00PM **Please bring your own yoga mat
Where: The Park Santa Monica | 500 Broadway, Santa Monica CA, 90401
Link to Purchase Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sunset-yoga-with-alex-silver-fagan-at-the-park-santa-monica-tickets-797026576947?aff=oddtdtcreator
by Dennis Richardson
For many, a new year means New Year’s resolutions and a renewed interest in health and wellness. Add budgeting to the mix and it’s a whole new slate, but the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the latest from Fogo de Chão, Woodland Hills.
Courtesy: Fogo de Chão
If you’re looking to customize your dining experience to fit a new health-centric lifestyle, Fogo de Chão invites you to discover its Select Cuts menu offering in Woodland Hills – at just $37! It’s the perfect match, especially heading into Valentine’s Day and Carnival season, which Fogo is known for celebrating with their own special offerings.
The Select Cuts menu provides guests with their choice of a preferred, fire-roasted protein carved tableside including prized favorites like Picanha, Fraldinha, and Bisteca de Porco (Double Chop Pork Chop), paired with the nutrient-dense Market Table featuring seasonal salads, fresh vegetables, charcuterie and more, and Brazilian side dishes.
Make reservations soon to take advantage of this opportunity, and also to beat everyone else as Fogo de Chão Woodland Hills gets filled up quickly!
by Dennis Richardson
There’s a hot new biopic on the way, and just in time, a new collection from Herschel Supply has launched ahead of its release.
Courtesy: Herschel Supply
Herschel Supply has partnered with Tuff Gong, the Kingston recording studio Bob Marley founded in 1970 – known as the home of reggae where he produced his greatest works – to release a limited new collection. The new Tuff Gong x Herschel Supply collection has been crafted to capture the essence of Marley’s creative spirit and cultural impact with designs and prints in tote bags, headwear, and more.
All products from the collection will be available ahead of the release of the biopic, “Bob Marley: One Love” on February 14, 2024. Through this collection, Herschel comes together with Tuff Gong, reflecting on Marley’s voice, messaging, and music as the “soundtrack of our brand,” while paying homage to the singer and songwriter. The designs of the bags and totes in the new collection are immediately classic with their retro-modern styles and earthy color ways with subtle details. The apparel offerings pay tribute to Bob Marley, featuring the iconic images of 6 of the legend’s album covers.
The Collection starts at $35 and goes to $100 and is available online at www.herschel.com. Learn more about the collection, here.
About Tuff Gong
In 1970, Bob Marley founded Tuff Gong Records, previously headquartered at 56 Hope Road in Kingston, Jamaica, now home of the iconic Bob Marley Museum. Bob had purchased the property with his wife, Rita, in 1974 and operated Tuff Gong here until his transition in 1981. In 1986, Rita Marley established the museum at the Hope Road location, having moved Tuff Gong to 220 Marcus Garvey Drive in Downtown Kingston.
Courtesy: Herschel Supply
Today, Tuff Gong International continues to sign world-renowned recording artists. Its current headquarters location is also home to Tuff Gong Studios, one of the most celebrated recording studios in the world, and the only vinyl pressing plant in the Caribbean.
Bob Marley earned the nickname “Tuff Gong” for his fierceness, tenacity, and innate leadership qualities. It is also a nod to the early Rastafarian leader Leonard “Gong” Howell.
by June Miller Richards
Idyllwild Arts Partners With Pioneering UK-Based Theater Company Stan’s Café to Deliver Thought-Provoking Performance Art
Free Reception February 9 a Highlight of Exhibitition Running February 6-14
The InterArts Department at Idyllwild Arts is pleased to present a special collaboration between
its students and UK-based interactive theater company, Stan’s Cafe. Of All The People in All The
World is an internationally-acclaimed performance installation that turns abstract human
population statistics into emotionally gripping stories using grains of rice. The public is invited
to view Idyllwild Arts’ iteration Of All The People in All The World at a celebratory reception on
Friday, February 9 from 6 to 7.30 pm, featuring InterArts students and Stan’s Café founders,
James Yarker and Graeme Rose. The free event takes place at the Parks Exhibition Gallery
located on Idyllwild Arts’ stunning campus (52500 Temecula Road #38, Idyllwild, CA). The
unique exhibition will also run from February 6 through 14, 2024.
Of All The People In All The World has toured the world since its inception in 2003, landing at
top international venues, including the Kennedy Center in Washington DC and the World
Financial Center in New York, adapting to the times and contexts in which it is found.
President of the Idyllwild Arts Foundation, Pamela Jordan sais, “We are thrilled to welcome
Stan’s Café to the Idyllwild Arts campus because this collaboration reflects many synergies
between both organizations where the spirit of a Citizen Artist is the focus. This unique
opportunity bolsters our ability to foster creative, innovative, curious, globally minded problem
solvers. I have no doubt that our students will be enriched and inspired by this experience and
Stan’s Café will be inspired by our talented, young artists and mountaintop village.”
The rice is carefully measured to represent human population statistics. These statistics are
drawn from the most reputable sources available. Each grain of rice equals one person and over
a period of days, a team of performers carefully weigh out quantities of rice to represent a host
of human statistics. These statistics are arranged in labeled piles, creating an ever-changing
landscape of rice. Their juxtapositions can be moving, shocking, celebratory, witty and
thought-provoking. That’s it. This installation is that simple—and that elegantly complex.
Since its debut, Of All The People In All The World has used this deceptively straightforward
concept to communicate statistics that are otherwise difficult if not impossible to grasp. After
the performance the rice will be donated to charities and recycled.
Established in 1991 and based in Birmingham UK, Stan’s Cafe is a group of artists from a variety
of disciplines, but mostly theater makers, working under the artistic direction of James Yarker.
The company consists of an evolving team of long-term collaborators and associated artists,
and the lineup changes according to the project being worked upon.
Artistic Director of Stan’s Café, James Yarker said, “We can’t wait to collaborate with the young
creatives at Idyllwild Arts Academy. The students will share with us their vision of the world, we
will teach them how our show works, and together we will research and make a wonderful new
version of Of All The People In All The World.”
For more information, visit: https://www.idyllwildartsgallery.org/of-all-the-people-in-all-the-world
by Dennis Richardson
Just in time to keep those New Year’s resolutions going strong, there’s a new expansion sure to keep you on track — no matter where you are in the U.S. If you didn’t meet them during the holiday season, now’s the next best time!
Magic Mind, a mental performance shot engineered with nootropics, adaptogens, antioxidants, and vitamins, announced today that their product is launching nationally at all Sprouts Farmers Market locations across the United States. This retail partnership is the first of many that Magic Mind plans to introduce this year.
In one shot, Magic Mind is scientifically designed to boost energy, enhance focus, create a sense of calm alertness, and increase overall productivity. Magic Mind will not only enhance your daily routine but also provide sustained energy, preventing those energy spikes and crashes, keeping you energized throughout the day – while also suitable for taking at any time of day.
A matcha-based swig, Magic Mind shots are jam-packed and infused with nootropics and adaptogens from:
- organic lion’s mane mushrooms
- organic cordyceps mushrooms
- organic ashwaganda
- bacopa monnieri
- vitamin C
- turmeric
- phosphatetidylserine
- rhodiola rosea
- vitamin D3
- vitamin B complex
- choline
- organic agave
Keto, paleo, and vegan-friendly, plus nut, gluten, and BPA-free, this concoction won’t encourage addiction, but will help provide up to 7+ hours of energy, focus, and stress management. The next best part of Magic Mind is its taste, which is a smooth and sweet mix with a barely bitter aftertaste. Easy to down, and small enough to go anywhere, Magic Mind is one of our favorite morning boosts that last through the day.
Credit: Magic Mind
With expansion into Sprouts, Magic Mind can now be found in over 400 retailers and directly on their website, MagicMind.com. Traditionally, consumers boost their energy via coffee, energy drinks or soda. Magic Mind is a different class of product that works alone or alongside your daily caffeine ritual, elevating your mental state and well being. Formulated with a doctor-validated mix of nootropics, adaptogens, antioxidants and vitamins, Magic Mind increases mental performance while decreasing stress; clearing brain fog, sharpening memory and boosting productivity without the risk of crash or withdrawal.
“We’re thrilled to announce our partnership with Sprouts Farmers Market, a company that shares our ethos in empowering individuals on their journey to a more enriched and balanced life,” said William Hicks, Magic Mind CEO and Co-Founder. “With Magic Mind, we’re revolutionizing the way people access mental clarity and focus. Our unique formulation brings together the best of science and nature. This isn’t your typical sugar and caffeine boost— it’s a carefully crafted formulation designed to enhance cognitive function and mental well-being in an innovative, health-conscious way.”
Magic Mind’s mission is to help humans grow their mental wealth— the way people feel and mentally perform. The concept of mental wealth refers to the psychological assets and emotional resilience that allows individuals to effectively navigate life’s challenges, harness opportunities, and maintain a state of well-being.
Shop Magic Mind individual bottles for $4.49 or their 6-packs for $24.00 at all Sprouts locations and directly at MagicMind.com.
About Magic Mind
In one shot, Magic Mind is scientifically designed to improve cognition, enhance focus, create a sense of calm alertness, and increase overall productivity. Magic Mind enhances your daily routine by providing sustained clarity, focus and energy, throughout the day without anxiety, spikes or crashes.
About Sprouts Farmers Market, Inc.
True to its farm-stand heritage, Sprouts offers a unique grocery experience featuring an open layout with fresh produce at the heart of the store. Sprouts inspires wellness naturally with a carefully curated assortment of better-for-you products paired with purpose-driven people. The healthy grocer continues to bring the latest in wholesome, innovative products made with lifestyle-friendly ingredients such as organic, plant-based and gluten-free. Headquartered in Phoenix, and one of the largest and fastest growing specialty retailers of fresh, natural and organic food in the United States, Sprouts employs approximately 31,000 team members and operates approximately 400 stores in 23 states nationwide. To learn more about Sprouts, and the good it brings communities, visit about.sprouts.com.
by Dennis Richardson
Some neighborhoods have their very own gems where the locals gather, while some neighborhoods don’t have that luxury or convenience. And with those gems, may come delicious food, an atmosphere perfect for unplugging from the last week’s stresses, or just a perfect setting for your favorite people to come together and reconnect – a reminder of how a special place can work wonders for our existence.
West Hollywood is one of the places lucky to have a few of these gems, but there’s one in particular that checks all the boxes: low key and hypnotic, while buzzing with just the right amount of activity, and a consistency that those who love it can always count on. Dimly lit, yet bright enough to see your party’s faces, bouncing with infectious beats, while just loud enough to still connect with those around you, and elevated menu options still big enough to share and leave you satisfied. That place is Harlowe.
Owned by the 1933 Group, Harlowe made waves at the end of 2023 for their completely revamped bar menu, giving frequent guests something new to look forward to. In its nearly 15-year existence, Harlowe has managed to kick off 2023 on a strong foot that is bound to not only bring back regulars who may have fallen out of practice, but also attract new customers looking for delicious cuisine to match the unique time that the bar offers – ultimately turning it into a weekly checkpoint to re-up on all it offers.
And before being turned off by the idea of “bar food,” it’s important to understand that Harlowe has raise the standard of what bar food can and should be. Elevated by accomplished culinary consultant and chef, Chester Hastings, he proves that you don’t need a full and upscale kitchen army to offer a standout bar menu that appeals to the local community. What Harlowe offers is simple, unpretentious, and deliciously good. Chester’s recipe substack, his personal IG and book about cheese can help demonstrate his perspective, skill, and cucina povera ethos.
Most known for his traditional Italian specialties, chef Hastings taps into the same approach for Harlowe’s new bar menu: use fresh ingredients and do little to them. Inspired by the bar bites at Harry’s Bar in Venice and Grande Hotel et des Palmes in Palermo, he puts it simply, “small portion bar food but substantial.” This simple statement captures the very essence that he has managed to achieve with the new menu.
The new Harlowe menu caters to modern palates, keeping thing simple, yet elevated to what would be expected from shiny, fancy establishments:
- Oversized prawn shrimp cocktail, grilled with espelette and lime zest served warm on glass with a Madre mezcal-spiked cocktail sauce
- Cheese & Italian salumi plate; a brie torta with pesto, balls of fresh goat cheese rolled in bee pollen, wildflower honey, finocchiona salami, cognac mustard
- Hanger Steak Frites – long shoestrings with simple steak, finished with a mound of crispy shallots and cognac pink peppercorn butter
- Fried green tomato burger (V); cornmeal and chickpea flour batter in buttermilk, flash fried in a pan with spicy avocado crema
- Fried Calamari and Chicken tenders (GF) are battered but Gluten Free by using chickpea flour
- Vodka pasta gratinée (V) creamy and baked with pecorino, mozzarella and breadcrumbs
- Vegetable crudo platter (V) with lemon hummus, cucumber mint yogurt, pickled onion
In addition to the new menu, Taco Tuesday — a weekly staple to Harlow — is still in demand, and the tacos have been revamped with four varieties – all served on Gracias a Dios white corn tortillas and charred on an open flame. Fillings include: smashed purple potato with black bean and queso fresco; seared shrimp; citrus marinated chicken with avocado; and carne asada.
What’s a food experience without dessert? Harlowe’s irresistible sweets are made using Gelato Festival’s gelato mastery: chocolate alongside pistachio orange honey brittle, fior di latte with passionfruit honey syrup and toasted sesame, and lemon sorbet with fresh lime zest.
And it wouldn’t be a bar without Happy Hour, which still stands from Tuesday-Sunday, 5-7p, with many of the aforementioned dishes on offer — plus $10 mules, old fashioned, margaritas, whisky sours, long island iced teas, beers, wines and well drinks.
In a wave of menu refreshments, it’s easy to overlook bars, but Harlowe is not just any old bar. A decade of consistency and reliability in WeHo has proven its place as a gem to the neighborhood, especially in a post-COVID world. Bar bites of this magnitude are much more than snacks, but an unexpected dinner and dessert when molded by masterminds like Chester Hastings. Worth a visit even from miles out, Harlowe manages to reimagine the modern neighborhood bar experience and spark up envy in those who don’t live within its vicinity for the frequent visitor luxury, while also competing with big restaurant names we all know, love, and justify traveling long distances for. (See Harlowe’s hours of operation, here.)
About Harlowe
Inspired by a single painting of a vibrant 1930s socialite, along with an assortment of vintage portraits (often dubbed as her closest friends) donning the walls, Harlowe captures the feel of an invigorating social club from Hollywood’s Golden Era.
Harlowe’s design reflects the turn of the 19th Century: a time when European influences were prevalent in stateside culture, and revolutionaries, artists, and poets shared ideas over tipples and dance. Harlowe has the soul of an age once forgotten and the spirit of a young, vivacious neighborhood bar.
A lively list of classic and original drinks and old-meets-new dishes tickle the palate while patrons snuggle in a booth, chum it up at the bar, or scruff the dance floor on any given night.
by Dennis Richardson
If you’re looking for something fresh and new in Southern California, perhaps a new coffee spot will scratch that itch you’ve got. LA is no stranger to coffee brands or cafés, and with so many options to choose from, there are definitely many favorites near and dear to countless hearts.
Brewing in LA for the last 8 years, Tectonic Coffee is adding a fresh dose of caffeine to the West Hollywood area, and this will be their first flagship café despite their nearly decade-old existence. In what is bound to be the new neighborhood destination for flat whites, delicious pastries, and cozy vibes, Tectonic Café is fulfilling a long awaited dream for its loyal fans.
The new café is hosting a grand opening party on Sunday, January 14th, from 8 am to 12 pm, and will be open every day from 6:30 am – 3:30 pm, starting Monday, January 15th. Attendees can enjoy music and half-off drinks and snacks, while relaxing and getting to know the new neighbor who is bound to be a people magnet.
Tectonic Coffee’s founder, Deaton Pigot, brings a wealth of 25+ years industry experience. As a well-rounded coffee professional, he has a tested palette notably judging on multiple Cup of Excellence panels internationally in countries like Honduras, Brazil, Peru, Costa Rica and Colombia. In addition, Deaton has judged on national-level Barista Championships and has coached multiple US Regional and National Barista Champions.
He not only roasts Tectonic coffee beans in LA, but he personally travels to coffee-producing regions to collaborate with local producers and trusted importers, ensuring only the highest-quality beans make their way to America.
As if that were not enough, Tectonic Café is more than just a new place to go pick up your brew, but they also deliver straight to you! Tectonic offers a selection of brews that you can order and subscribe to, with their very own team of experts who will pick out the right variety for your tastes – or allowing you to customize your order to your liking. Subscribers are free to pause, cancel, or adjust their subscription at any time. A new neighbor and goodies delivered home? Count us in!
Tectonic Coffee Café is located at:
1040 N. Fairfax Ave.
West Hollywood, CA 90046
by Niki Smart
“When Happily Ever After Fails” – a debut rom-com by Courtney Deane
San Diego, California – For anyone who has ever felt “dead-ended” in life, work, and love, Courtney Deane has penned a delightfully funny debut rom-com that proves all tragedies can be rewritten, and happiness can bloom where you least expect it: “When Happily Ever After Fails” (SparkPress, April 9, 2023).
About the novel: Abigail Gardner’s life is circling the drain. Her parents are dead, her “like a brother” BFF is in love with her, and her career as an art teacher has been squashed by an unfortunate viral incident involving sophomores and Spanx. But just as that whirlpool feels poised to suck her under, she’s granted a second chance: she lands a teaching job at Excelsior Primm, one of Philadelphia’s 
oldest and most prestigious preparatory academies. Only 
problem is, instead of teaching art she’ll be stuck teaching her least favorite subject — literature — and her least favorite theme: tragedy.
Tired of being stuck in her own tragic tale, Abigail starts rewriting every sad ending she can get her hands on, in and out of the classroom. To her surprise, her life soon begins to resemble the fairy tales she adores—great job, hot guy, a career gaining recognition. But when an unexpected plot twist threatens to derail her happy ending, Abigail starts to realize why these outcomes are so hard to come by.
COURTNEY DEANE has been a writer and pursuer of happily-ever-afters since she can remember. As a full-time freelance writer, her days are spent working for print, digital, and broadcast entities, as well as for a variety of PR and marketing clients.
She continues her craft by dedicating some space each day to work on her fiction books. After both of her parents died, Deane worked to turn those tragedies into something beautiful—an effort that inspired her debut novel, When Happily Ever After Fails.
She holds bachelor’s degrees in English and sociology from UC Irvine and a master’s in journalism from USC. Deane lives in San Diego, California, with her husband, daughter, and rescue dog—her very own happily-ever-after. Visit her website to sign up for a newsletter, or find out about book store appearances and more http://www.courtneydeane.com/.
“An entertaining read that will keep you turning pages. The reader is taken on a ride with Abigail as she grows into herself and finds her voice. Deane makes it easy to root for Abigail along with the other quirky characters who have distinct and interesting personalities. When Happily Ever After Fails is a fun debut.”
— Leslie A. Rasmussen, award-winning author of “After Happily Ever After” and “The Stories We Cannot Tell”
“Courtney Deane offers up a radiant debut in When Happily Ever After Fails. Whip-smart and relatable, Abigail’s search for her own happy ending will have you on the edge of your pool chair. An absolute must read this Spring!”
– Liz Fenton & Lisa Steinke, authors of “Forever Hold Your Peace”
Interview with Courtney Deane
First, can you briefly introduce us to the characters we meet in “When Happily Ever After Fails?”
Of course! We’ve got Abigail, the lovable, fallible protagonist who is dead set on righting (and writing) wrongs and ensuring everyone gets a positive outcome. You’ve got to love her for it. She tries!
Then there’s Quinn, the not-as-lovable, but-we-love-him-because-he-loves-her BFF who is Abigail’s No. 1 fan. Yes, he’s head over heels for her and just waiting for the day when she realizes it, too.
And no one could forget about Mathilda. She’s our “tell it like it is” North Star, who doesn’t mince words. She’s got advice for everyone but herself! Abigail’s second BFF is funny and factual with the right amount of spunk.
Lastly, we have Nate. Abigail can’t figure out if this fellow teacher is initially a friend or foe, but his presence and advice is solid enough for her to keep him around and find out.
Why did you choose your title? What happens “when happily ever after fails?”
Honestly, I took the inspiration from a Don Henley song I’ve always loved, “The End of the Innocence.” This song always reminded me of my family’s situation, particularly the line “let me take a long last look before we say goodbye.” Part of the song’s chorus is “But happily ever after fails.” I don’t love the “but,” because HEA doesn’t always fail permanently; it just changes. It morphs – as do our expectations of life – as we collect different experiences and encounter various situations. So, our notion of happily ever after will likely fail and falter at some point (thus, the “when”), but we can recover, pick ourselves back up and continue working toward a modified version of whatever “happily ever after” is for us.
Fun sidenote: There’s a few Easter egg references to this inspo in the book!
You started writing this book after your mom passed away. How did the writing process impact your grief process, and vice versa? And how did both evolve as time went on?
I would love to slap an Abigail-style happy ending on this and say writing the book allowed me to work through the grief process and – wow – I’m GREAT now! It wouldn’t be true. I think it was a nice thought and an admirable effort to try to get some resolution on these two pivotal deaths through writing.
While I didn’t necessarily get the “resolution” I was looking for, writing this novel DID help me express some of my thoughts and feelings on the grief process, my parents’ loss and how many well-meaning individuals can actually make the situation worse. I very much hope that comes through in the book.
This might not be the answer anyone’s looking for, but what truly helped me move on from these deaths and this situation was having a family of my own. I don’t say that in an advice-driven, “go out and find you a man and have a baby” way, but chasing my dream and my happily ever after of starting my own family did make a huge impact. Suddenly, phrases like “mom” and “dad” weren’t dirty words anymore. And they were words that were back in my vocabulary. You have no idea how foreign those phrases seemed for a very long time!
Now, having a child certainly brings up my parents in different ways, especially where grandparents are concerned, so this issue isn’t entirely put to bed, but THAT is what has truly brought me closure.
What did you enjoy most about writing “When Happily Ever After Fails”? What did you find the most challenging?
I loved most everything about it! This was so much fun. I loved developing the characters and losing myself in their world. As I wrote, I would find that I wasn’t sitting on my mom’s former bed with my laptop, but was IN Abigail’s apartment as her and Quinn blasted the Beatles, etc.
This being my first foray into fiction, I found the opening to be the most challenging. I wrote and rewrote and consulted, then rewrote again and again. I’m very happy with the final result, but, man, did we go through a lot of changes! I learned a ton about the book-writing process, and have made sure this next book has the opening it deserves from the get go!
Rom-coms have always been wildly popular. What are you bringing to this genre as a writer?
I’d like to think I’m bringing a fresh spin – though I’m sure every author would like to think that! I appreciate that tropes and formulas exist for a reason, but I’m not a fan of predictability or sticking to “what works.” Yes, this is a rom-com and some of the expected elements are there, but I believe this book has a modern, unique take on these traditions. Because, as we know, happily ever after IS possible…but it may look different than you pictured! 😉
Do you see yourself in any of the characters?
It would be weird if I didn’t say Abigail, right? LOL. There are certainly elements of myself in Abigail, though we are two VERY different people. Like Abigail, my father died of ALS and my mother kind of didn’t recover after his death and failed to take care of herself, which was ultimately her demise. Many (okay, all) of Abigail’s thoughts and perspectives on the subjects of death and parents are from my own experience, but the way she processes them is different from my own.
In thinking about this, though, I guess I kind of did what Abigail did in that I went out and wrote a book hoping that would give this situation a “happily ever after.” That’s not all that different from Abigail changing a play’s ending in the hopes of dodging tragedy for herself and her class. Interesting…
What is your favorite romance movie of all time, and why?
I’m kind of an irreverent person (if we’re not laughing, what’s the point?), so I lean toward the love stories that have some heart AND humor. On that note, you can’t beat “Forgetting Sarah Marshall,” “Always Be My Maybe,” and “Chasing Amy.”
Stories that tug at you and make you feel the longing really resonate with me as well. With that in mind, I love “The Notebook” and the “Before” trilogy (Before Sunrise/Sunset/Midnight).
Finally, you have to hand it to “Love Actually” for capturing so many different types of loves – and bonus points that not every plot has a happy ending!
What do you hope readers take away from “When Happily Ever After Fails?”
Two things.
One, I hope it gives them a glimpse into what grief and survival can look like for someone who has seemingly “lost it all” (or, at least, a BIG part of who they were and how we identify – our families).
Two, I really wrote this book for anyone who’s ever felt alone in a crowded room. Your grief, feelings, and circumstances don’t have to reflect mine to understand what it’s like to feel marooned on an island where no one else is around and help doesn’t seem like it can be found. Please, please know that THESE are the people I wrote this book for.
Follow Courtney Deane on social media:
Facebook: Courtney Deane | Instagram: @AuthorCourtneyDeane
TikTok: @CourtneyDeane | YouTube: @CourtneyDeane
by Dennis Richardson
On Quitter’s Day (January 12), KIND Snacks is launching “Better You by Lana,” a one-day-only immersive wellness pop-up based in Los Angeles, CA, that flips the script on how to start the New Year, with actress, Lana Condor. By launching on Quitter’s Day, the day by which most Americans have quit their New Year’s resolutions, KIND and Lana are inviting consumers to shut out the noise and stress that heightens around the New Year and trust their taste buds.
Health and diet-related New Year’s resolutions rank among the highest set during the New Year. The pressure to “be better” at the start of each year is often matched with confusion. One recent study on eating habits showed that while over 70% of respondents across markets want to be healthier, half of the group found difficulty understanding what they need to do when it comes to making choices about their health. The abundance of noise and confusion creates conflicting messaging around how and what people should eat.
Through the pop-up experience and partnership with Lana, KIND invites Americans to think differently about the pressures we face when making choices about food and wellness. Through the pop-up experience and partnership with Lana, KIND invites Americans to think differently about the pressures we face when making choices about food and wellness. “It is nearly impossible to start the year without the overwhelming pressure and noise of our ‘eat this, not that’ culture that escalates each January,” said Osher Hoberman, Chief Marketing Officer at KIND. “As a continuation of KIND’s commitment to nutrition education and nourishment, we are challenging the status quo and empowering Americans to trust their taste buds to lead them to whole, recommended foods we’re not eating enough of today.”
“Each and every January, we all feel like we should be changing our daily routines to become better versions of ourselves. It’s time to ask ourselves how well these resolutions are serving us,” said Lana. “Better You by Lana certainly sounds like a wellness store in name, but the experience KIND and I teamed up to create is anything but. We will empower consumers to shut out the noise that comes with the new year.”
To visit Better You by Lana, stop by Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade on 395 Santa Monica Place, Unit 146 from 12–9 pm PT. The first 100 people in line will receive a custom gift from Lana and KIND while supplies last.
About KIND Snacks
Since 2004, KIND has been on a mission to create a kinder and healthier world – one snack and one act at a time. Its iconic KIND® bars – made with real, recognizable ingredients – sparked the growth of an entirely new healthy snacking category. Today, KIND has a family of more than 80 snacks that offer solutions for a variety of occasions. All of KIND’s products lead with a nutrient-dense first ingredient –nuts or whole grains – and do not contain genetically engineered ingredients, sugar alcohols or artificial sweeteners.
Inspired by the belief that acts of kindness can be a transformative force for good, the KIND brand seeks to inspire kindness and empathy. KIND was founded by Daniel Lubetzky. To learn more about KIND, please visit www.kindsnacks.com and join us on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.
1 Grimmelt, A., Moulton, J., Pandya, C., & Snezhkova, N. (2022, October 5). Hungry and confused: The winding road to conscious eating. McKinsey & Co. https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/consumer-packaged-goods/our-insights/hungry-and-confused-the-winding-road-to-conscious-eating
by Randy Dunbar
First the News: The sudden departure of Sweet Lady Jane — and the the venerable IHOP in West Hollywood has stirred unease as the year begins. Lady Jane closed all six locations (Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Calabasas, Encino, West Hollywood, and San Fernando) on December 31, 2023, following 35 years of business. IHOP, the place for pancakes, has been in operation since the early 1970s. Located within reach of Barney’s Beanery, the IHOP was said to be impacted by a future neighbor, the Holloway Interim Housing Facility. It should noted that both are in West Hollywood and the City Council recently voted toincrease to the minimum wage to $19.08 an hour— the highest in the country. But let us not dwell on bad politics, let us take a look at the finer things of living in the Southern California area:
The Weather: In January, Southern California typically experiences mild and cool weather, although temperatures can vary depending on the specific location within the region.
Here are some general expectations:
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Temperature: Coastal areas, such as Los Angeles and San Diego, tend to have daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to low 70s Fahrenheit (12-23°C). Inland areas may experience slightly cooler temperatures, especially during the evenings and early mornings.
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Rainfall: January is considered part of Southern California’s rainy season, but overall precipitation tends to be lower than in the winter months in other parts of the country. Coastal areas might receive occasional light rain, while mountainous regions could see some snowfall. But, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor, the California-Nevada Drought Early Warning System region began Water Year 2023 100% in drought and ended with less than 1% of the region in drought. Water your lawn!
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Sunshine: Southern California is known for its sunny weather, and January is no exception. Despite occasional rain, you can still expect a good amount of sunshine, making it a pleasant time to explore the region. Don’t forget the sunblock and sunglasses.
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Santa Ana Winds: Southern California is occasionally affected by Santa Ana winds, which are warm, dry winds that can lead to increased fire danger. While these winds are more common in the fall, they can still occur in January, so residents should be aware of fire weather conditions. The winds have also been written about—here is passage from Joan Didion:
“There is something uneasy in the Los Angeles air this afternoon, some unnatural stillness, some tension. What it means is that tonight a Santa Ana will begin to blow, a hot wind from the northeast whining down through the Cajon and San Gorgonio Passes, blowing up sand storms out along Route 66, drying the hills and the nerves to flash point. For a few days now we will see smoke back in the canyons, and hear sirens in the night.”
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Snow in Mountains: Higher elevations, such as the mountains surrounding the region, may experience snowfall. Popular mountain destinations like Big Bear Lake and Mount Baldy can be covered in snow during this time, making them attractive for winter sports enthusiasts.
It’s important to note that weather conditions can vary from year to year, and anomalies are always possible. Therefore, it’s advisable to check local weather forecasts closer to your intended visit for more accurate and up-to-date information.
