Los Angeles

Where does a girl go when she wants to put on a pretty skirt, eat a hamburger and sip a chocolate malt with a boy? Why the Fountain Shoppe at the Beverly Hills Hotel, of course. For not only is it one of the fanciest fountain shoppes around, it’s also one of the best. In fact, I’ve become rather addicted to their unique California Burger with avocado, bacon and cheese.

With specialties big in the 50's - sodas, floats, malts - combined with todays fashions of gourmet coffees, fresh, healthy fruit smoothies and homemade baked goods (which are oh, so good), this coffee shop combines historical touches with modern flair.

Restored to its 1950's glamour, the pink bar stools make you feel like a (pretty) regular and there are, surprisingly, a lot of regulars. They come and read the paper whilst talking to their neighbour or the man behind the counter. Classic soda shoppe feel, right down to the curved counter top.

It's a historical landmark but don't focus on that; focus instead on having great food, in a great atmosphere in an extraordinary way. A little flair to the regular burger experience. That's what life's about, no?

Beverly Hills Hotel Fountain Shoppe
9641 Sunset Boulevard
Beverly Hills, California
Tel: 310.276.2251

Over the years I've had couches from friends, from garage sales, from Ikea and yes, even dumpsters. None have ever been what I wanted; pretty, washable, sturdy, and cosy. And after months of searching, it seemed like I was destined to be without the perfect couch. Just when I was about to give up, I stumbled into Cozi Couch which, I found out, lives up to its name.

Not only are the couches beautiful, with so many shapes and designs, but they're all 100% slip covered making them easy to clean or change with your decor. Literally thousands of fabrics are on hand to choose from, allowing customization of every chair and couch they sell. I happened to fall for a floor model, the Tiffany Couch (Britney Spears came in a week before I and had the same reaction) which lead to a discount and quicker delivery (custom couches take 4 weeks).

Pillows and couch bottoms are stuffed with down making them feel like little cosy beds - perfect for watching movies or having an overnight guest sleep on. And the slipcovers make it perfect; having a black cat and white couch causes me no fear. When the mess hits, I unzip and toss in the wash.

Cozi Couch also sells antique tables and lights as well as matching ottomans. Being cosy and stylish was never so easy.

Cozi Couch
700 Wilshire Blvd
Santa Monica CA
(310)451-7759

I love city life, but when it starts getting too loud in my head I take that as a sign to get to the outskirts of town, find someplace quiet and beautiful, and breathe. This past weekend I found that amazing place of solace to be The Inn of the Seventh Ray in Topanga. Winding through the roads of the canyon can make you feel so nice and snug and small, like a bug. A very hungry bug.

Upon arrival I was overwhelmed by the crowd! There was valet service scurrying about a packed-tight parking lot, fancy looking people getting out of shiny cars, and then I remembered it was Saturday—and someone’s wedding day. The Inn prides itself on being so romantic that you’ll become engaged there, get married there, and then celebrate your 50th anniversary right under it’s beautiful treehouse canopies. I believe it.