DPA Pre-Emmy's Gifting Lounge

On September 20th Lavish Lifestyles attended DPA's annual gifting suite at the Beverly Penthouse of the Luxe Hotel in Beverly Hills. This event spanned over a 3-day period. Celebrities in attendance included: Rachael Leigh Cook, Annalynne McCord, Tamera Mowry, Neil Patrick Harris, James Morrison, Aaron Staton, Connie Staton, Jimmy Jean-Louis, Kali Hawk, Phylicia Rashad, Sofia Milos, Vida Guerra, John Michael Higgins, Bonnie Somerville, Kathy Hilton, Tichina Arnold, and several others.

The penthouse and roof offered many sections of fabulous gifts for celebrities, nominees, and presenters. Let's begin our tour with the Red Carpet Section: Emmy nominees and presenters were offered $45,000 gowns and clutches from Georges Hobeika, sunglasses from Micheal Kors and Oscar de la Renta provided by Marchon, Jewelry from Bel esprit and Mon bijou.

Moving on to Fashion Alley: guests walked away with gifts from several fashion designers including Bluehorse faux fur sweats, Kumi Kookoon silk pajamas, and Eva Varro. Further, guests enjoyed paintings from Timree, and photographic works from Anyes Galleani images.

Additionally, guests seeking the ultimate in relaxation enjoyed the on-site spa presented by Sphatika. Services included on site massages from massage express, 24 carat gold mini facials from Umo, and short session therapies by Dr. Solutions.

Lastly, celebrities walked away with the Green Gift Bag which included: Soaptopia, Planet botanicals, Urban tree salvage, Jet Zone, BamBoo Hugs and other fabulous items.

LOVE SEES NO COLOR

Last night Lavish Lifestyles had the honor of attending an event promoting "World Peace" hosted by Fred Nassiri (advocate for peace and founder of http://www.iwantpeace.com/) and Jamie Foxx on Paramount Studios back lot. The evening began with an assortment of mini bites and cocktails, some people mingled while others lounged on sleek white leather couches. Following the cocktail reception guests were escorted into the theater where we watched a short music video showcasing Fred Nassiri's journey around the world spreading love and peace through music.

This wasn't just another celebrity filled Hollywood party, it was an event showing that one person with a vision can inspire and move people to live in peace despite religion and race. His message is simply love sees no color!

To learn more about Fred Nassiri and how you can help bring change and peace to the world please visit http://www.nassiri.com/

Brunch at The Four Seasons Beverly Hills

This past Sunday Lavish Lifestyles enjoyed the Four Seasons famous Sunday Brunch. The service from the moment you walk in the door was top-notch. Everyone was extremely friendly, attentive, and alert. If you are a foodie, you will definitely love their brunch!
The presentation was excellent. The selection of food is impressive as you will find everything from omelets to sushi, and even a kids station with chicken fingers for the little ones. Lastly, you must save room for dessert as you will find a wide assortment of cakes, puddings, and tarts.
Average cost for two including Bellini's $200.00

Norman Lewis Limousines

Are you looking for a limo for a special night on the town or heading to the spa and would prefer a luxury sedan to provide the transportation? Look no further as Norman Lewis Limousines, serving the Los Angeles community for over 20 years has a fleet ranging from luxury sedans to stretch limos. The drivers are professional, courteous, and punctual. Plus, the fleet is either a 2007 or 2008 model, no outdated cars!

TAO Las Vegas

On a recent trip to Las Vegas I was pleasantly surprised by the outstanding service, attention to detail, and decor that made my dining experience at Tao very enjoyable!

The restaurant has a nice size lounge where most guests, even with a reservation, have to wait a minimum of 15 minutes to be seated. The restaurant is very beautiful...with a huge Buddha positioned in the middle.

Furthermore, I would say the upstairs dining area is a little more intimate than the first level dining room...however..this is more of a trendy restaurant than a romantic dinner spot. I would definitely recommend Tao to a group of friends or couple looking to have dinner and then visit Tao Beach next door. FYI: Restaurant reservations do not guarantee entry into Tao Beach, however, your server might be able to obtain VIP passes for the club following dinner!

Puerto Plata & Cabarete

When you think of the Dominican Republic most people think of Punta Cana. Punta Cana is the most popular resort town in the Dominican Republic and is also the most touristy. If you are like me, you are not looking for 20+ all-inclusive hotels lined up along the beach, i.e Cancun. You are looking to experience the country's culture and discover a hidden gem or two. Lavish Lifestyles discovered two places that provide the peace and quiet of the Caribbean, while also allowing you to enjoy nightlife, casinos, and local restaurants.

Casa Colonial Beach & Spa Resort (pic above) is located in Puerta Plata and is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of The World. This boutique all-suite hotel is reminiscent of an old Hollywood mansion, from the foyer to the well manicured grounds every detail exudes opulence. This hotel makes for a perfect romantic getaway with your special someone.

Velero Beach Resort is a luxury condo/hotel resort located in Cabarete approximately 20 minutes from Puerto Plata. Valero Beach Resort is comprised of 22 apartments and 7 penthouses all of which are privately owned condos located directly on the beach.Cabarete is internationally known as a windsurfers and kite boarders paradise; it is now also known as a fun destination for all. Cabarete has many clubs, restaurants, and bars within walking distance along the beach. This is a great place for a getaway with friends.

Also, be sure to visit Aura Beach House, it's the equivalent of Miami's Nikki Beach. Ask a local for directions, as it is hard to find if you are not familiar with the area.

A Taste Of NYC

Not to exclude our NYC readers Lavish Lifestyles will begin to include some of the city's hottest places to dine, relax, party, and sleep. First up is Socarrat a new restaurant located in Chelsea. Enjoy communal dining while feasting on delicious paella and Spanish beer. If you haven't had the opportunity to travel to Spain here is your little piece of heaven in Chelsea.

Next up, where does one go to unwind from a day of hot subway platforms and crazy cab drivers? Try Thai Privilege Spa located in Soho, be sure to ask for the Siam Nirvana (six -handed 75 minute massage not listed on the spa menu). This is like nothing you've experienced before!

Now that your relaxed.. do you want to party or sleep? Ummm...I would say sleep but in the case of the night owls I would like to introduce you to Kingswood located in the village. It appears to only be a restaurant, but for those in the know there is also a basement bar and lounge throwing some hot parties this summer. You enter via an unmarked door to the right of the restaurant and proceed down a narrow stairway and let the party begin!

OK, it's 4am and time to finally call it night. Why not treat yourself to room service in the morning by checking into The London, an all-suite hotel in mid-town, where in homage to its name all calls made from your room to London, England are free!!

Restaurant/Lounge/Club = KRESS

Last Friday Lavish Lifestyles had the pleasure of dining at Kress, Hollywood's newest addition to the once infamous Hollywood Blvd. Upon entering this exotic 38,000 sf space you feel like your in Vegas ...everything is very big and over the top. The theme is Asian which caries through to the decor and several menu selections.

The service and food is impeccable! Here are some menu suggestions: Calamari, Shrimp ( prepared on a 500 degree rock which cooks at the table) and the Salmon are all excellent. The portions are on the smaller side so I recommend ordering side dishes. The mixed drinks are very good, try the mojito. Lastly, save room for dessert as they have a chocolate fountain which comes with a variety of dipping options. If you are more in the mood for sushi, the mezzanine has a complete wrap around sushi bar. The prices are not bad... dinner for two including drinks runs a little under $200.

OK, now on to the party side of Kress. We were lucky to be given a tour by the executive chef.The tour began in the basement which is all purple with a dance floor in the middle ( easiest part of the club to get into) we then proceeded via elevator to the third floor which is a large VIP section with all white leather couches and crystal chandeliers. Still curious to explore we continued on to the the fourth floor ( rooftop - another VIP section ) beautiful views and cabanas make this a great outdoor space during the summer. We had a great time at Kress! We even saw a couple of well -known celbs (who shall remain nameless) trying desperately to get in!!! This is definitely one of LA's newest hotspots!!

Manure Wrap Party

On July 3rd Lavish Lifestyles attended the wrap party for the film "Manure" starring Billy Bob Thornton, Tea Leoni, Kyle MacLachlan and Ed Helms. This is one of four films Mark & Michael Polish aim to make this year through their production company Prohibition Pictures. These are the same guys that bought you Northfork and The Astronaut Farmer!

As guests arrived they enjoyed an assortment of hors d’ouevers such as chicken skewers with peanut dipping sauce to beverages ranging from beer provided by Anheuser-Busch to Vodka in the lounge/bar area of Fais Do-Do. Lavish Lifestyles was pleased that we could assist in securing Red Bull and vodka for the event. As the night progressed guests were led into a huge event space behind Fais Do-Do where Billy Bob and his band "The Boxmasters" took the stage. Dressed in matching suits and ties Billy Bob and his band had the crowd rocking til midnight!!

It was a great night and a great crowd!!

Hotel Angeleno & The Hollywood Bowl

Lavish Lifestyles uncovered a hidden gem on our way to a 4th of July BBQ. The hotel Angeleno located in Brentwood just off the 405 was one of our many stops this past holiday. To our surprise this is a rather quaint hotel despite its close proximity to the freeway. We also discovered that Hotel Angeleno hosts a weekly jazz series every Monday from 8pm-11pm in the West Restaurant & Lounge located on the penthouse level. The panoramic views are simply amazing!!

Have you been to an outdoor concert this summer? Enjoy an evening of Mozart under the stars with the Los Angeles Philharmonic on June 22nd at the Hollywood Bowl. Concert and fireworks start at 8pm. Parking at the bowl starts at $14.00. Enjoy!

Who is Lavish Lifestyles?

Many people from time to time have posed the question...what does Lavish Lifestyles do? Lavish Lifestyles is both a luxury personal concierge & event planning company. We have compiled a list of services we provide. Please keep in mind, this is not a complete list, but it should give you better insight!

CONCIERGE

• Arrange unique romantic experiences for you and your special someone ( sunset flights, private chef services, spa services, private jet, dinner on the beach/cliff side, horseback riding, etc)
• Arrange over-the-top adventures ranging from swimming with sharks to flying a real military fighter plane while shooting fake bullets at your opponent
• Arrange fun weekend itineraries: A getaway with friends
• Arrange fun date itineraries
• Restaurant Recommendations: Business lunch to a romantic dinner for two
• Secure transportation: Limo, sedan, exotic, or vintage Rolls Royce
• Booking service for Domestic & International travel
• Booking service for hotel arrangements: complimentary upgrades at select hotels
• Booking service for hard to get sporting event, theater, and Hollywood bowl tickets
• Secure invitations to red carpet events
• Plus, whatever your heart desires.....

LAVISH EVENTS

• Creating a Budget & Timeline
• Securing a Venue
• Event Production & Planning
• Event Decor
• Event Lighting
• Catering & Event Staff
• Public Relations
• Photography & Video
• Media Wall & Red Carpet
• Securing Sponsors
• Product Placement
• Securing Talent
• Securing Entertainment
• Creating Giftbags

Celebrity Giftbag Contest + 1 Year Membership to Lavish Lifestyles

New subscribers are automatically entered into our drawing to win this fabulous Celebrity Giftbag from the "Dogs In Danger"charity event hosted by Shana Wall of the Amazing Race!! The giftbag contains fabulous gifts such as: Skinny Water, BNY Dog Apparel, Nailene, Dyson PetVacum, SitterCity.com, Oxy Fresh, Mars Vet, Wellness plus much more!

Contest Ends July 7th...Good Luck!!

Akademiks/BET Oasis Spa

On June 23rd in celebration of the BET awards the Roosevelt Hotel in Hollywood played host to the Akademiks/BET Oasis Spa. Celebrities, artists, producers and tastemakers had the opportunity to visit each gifting suite and sample or take home an assortment of goodies: clothing and footwear from Akademiks, various lipsticks from Covergirl cosmetics, a bottle of Flawless Vodka, and Techno watches by KC. Moet/Henessey served speciality cocktails as guests enjoyed the ambiance of each speciality suite. What a fabulous pre-award show event!

Glamour Suite & Spa Lounge

This afternoon Lavish Lifestyles attended Sparkle, Shimmer, and Shine presented by Illusions cosmetics and hosted by actress Lauren London. This glamorous soiree took place at a private estate in Hancock Park. The guest list consisted of celebrities such as: Nicole Murphy, Vanessa & Angela Simmons, Tasha Smith, George Daniels,Traver Rains, Robi Reed, Jimmy Jean-Louis, Jazsmin Lewis and Nautica de la Cruz. It was truly a day of relaxation as guests were treated to an assortment of outdoor spa/beauty services such as: mini massages, makeup application, eyelash extensions, brow shaping, manicures, pedicures, and body paint. Those not partaking in the spa lounge laid back, sampled various hors d’ouevers, and sipped Bailey's signature Chocolatinis.

What a fabulous way to end the weekend!

Fashion Votes

Last night Lavish Lifestyles attended "Fashion Votes" a star-studded evening of fashion, glamour, and eclectic music hosted by fashion designer Nanette Lepore and actress Kerry Washington. This event was sponsored by the Creative Coalition in an effort to encourage the fashion and Hollywood communities to get out and vote in the upcoming election. Celebrities included Alfre Woodard, Brittny Gastineau, Andre Royo, Tom Arnold, AnnaLynne McCord, Natalie Zea, Ed O'Neill, Rockmond Dunbar, Kristen Renton, John Paul DeJoria and many others.

Democrat or Republican your vote counts!!!

Dogs In Danger Charity Event

Lavish Lifestyles attended Reality Cares "Dogs In Danger" celebrity charity event hosted by Shana Wall of the "Amazing Race" at Michael Scott's beautiful Beverly Park Estate on Saturday June 14th. Other celebrities in attendance included Ryan Seacrest, Lisa Rinna, actor Jai Rodriguez of Animal Planet's "Groomer Has It", Linda Blair, Kelly Ruterford,Lisa Foxx and many others.This event's mission was to raise awareness of the many dogs being killed in shelters everyday and helping to save their lives through pet adoption.

What a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon: sampling delicious hors d’ouevers, sipping speciality cocktails, participating in a silent auction; while watching these adorable rescue dogs strut their stuff on the catwalk all for a great cause!

Guests didn't leave this fabulous soiree empty handed, as each guest received a giftbag containing everything from organic pet food and treats to products from revlon, to my personal favorite Skinny Water ( I may be slightly bias because Skinny Water is one of our client's, but this flavored water is delicious....zero calories, zero sugar, zero guilt).

Lastly, please consider animals in the shelter before you buy a dog or cat from a pet store. Shelter animals need your help more than animals costing $500+. Save a life...ADOPT!

ISLA - Sunset's Newest Hotspot

I've never been a huge fan of the sunset strip...it's too touristy for me. However, with the arrival of Isla I've changed my mind! Isla is an indoor-outdoor upscale Mexican bar/lounge/restaurant which opened yesterday!!

Isla sits at the end of the sunset strip so it's somewhat removed from the party scene, which makes it ideal for a fun night with friends or a romantic dinner date. Its a beautiful space with large windows and a retractable roof giving you the feeling of being outdoors. Unlike most bars they have quite a menu...make sure you try the "Mighty Matador" and their Mexican banana toast!!!

Horseback Riding In The Santa Monica Mountains

Looking for something different to do on a beautiful Saturday afternoon? Malibu Riders 3 mile trails offers breath-taking ocean, mountain, and Island views. (Catalina Island and the Channel Islands). Upon reaching the top of the mountain you may opt for a relaxing picnic complete with food, wine and music ( all arranged for you) in a secluded and romantic setting.

New to horseback riding? No worries...instructors are available for lessons!

Lavish Lifestyles & Make A Film Foundation

This past Friday Lavish Lifestyles had the honor of producing and planning a cocktail reception for Make A Film Foundation's benefit screening of their first short film. Make A Film Foundation(affiliated with the Make-A-Wish Foundation) pairs terminally ill or critically diagnosed youth with notable actors to create short film legacies. This red carpet event took place at the Writer's Guild in Beverly Hills and was hosted by Greg Vaughan(General Hospital) and Catherine Hicks (Seventh Heaven) with a special musical performance by Rhona of the group En Vogue. The star of the film was a young man from LA living with Sickle Cell Anemia who took part in the writing of his film which was directed by Rodrigo Garcia
( HBO's In Treatment). After watching the documentary and his performance there was not a dry eye in the theater. Clients like this make our profession so much more rewarding!!

Lavish Lifestyles Favorites II

ROMANTIC ITALIAN RESTAURANT: You do not have to travel to Italy for authentic Italian food!! Il Cielo located on Burton Way in Beverly Hills is one of the most romantic Italian restaurants in Los Angeles. Upon entering the candlelit courtyard you feel as though you are miles away from California...you are now in Italy!! Everything from the waiters' thick Italian accent to Italian music playing in the background is reminiscent of old world charm. FYI: This is a great place for a proposal or anniversary celebration!!

FLORIST: Empty Vase is absolutely amazing. This Los Angeles based florist provided fabulous mini red rose table arrangements for a recent event Lavish Lifestyles produced/planned. FYI: Empty Vase is definitely not a traditional florist as their arrangements are very artistic yet elegant. If you're looking to make a statement they should be first on your list!!

FATHER'S DAY GIFT IDEAS

Father's Day is only a few weeks away why not give him something unexpected...something adventurous...the ultimate WOW!! Below you will find two of Lavish Lifestyles most popular experiences for Father's Day!!

Be a fighter pilot for a day - he and a trained instructor will soar above the ocean in a real military fighter plane. He will be able to do all types of aerobatics and dog fights in the air. He can even bring some buddies along and they can play against each other. There is a camera in the cockpit so he will be able to re-live this experience time and time again.

The spa isn't just for women - Lavish Lifestyles searched high and low to find a spa where men can be pampered in a masculine environment, and we found a gem in the Valley. This upscale gentleman's grooming club has flat screen TVs, dark wood panels and is home to some the best barbers in town. While he gets a haircut he can sip on a glass of his favorite Cognac while smoking his favorite cigar. Additional spa services such as facials, manicures, and massages are also available.

Above are just two examples of gifts he will love for Father's Day. Let us know what you have in mind and we will make sure this Father's Day is the best ever!!

HOW TO PLAN A SUCCESSFUL EVENT

Many people think an event can be planned overnight, it can be done, but a successful event takes time, thought, and proper planning. Depending on the size and type of event you should allot anywhere from 6 months to one year for planning. Obviously, a small gathering will not take 6 months to plan, however, events of a larger scale will.

Steps needed to properly plan and execute a successful and memorable event

1. Know your budget

2. What type of event are you planning? Wedding, Launch Party, Cocktail Reception, Birthday Party, Anniversary, Premiere, Just because Party, ect.

3. Time Frame to find venue, catering co, host( if needed), furniture rental, valet, special performers, lighting co, florist, DJ, ect....

4.Guest List: Are you working with a publicist to generate media? When it comes to celebrities the more notice you give them the more likely they will be able to attend or be involved if you are looking for a celebrity host. Invitations should be mailed out 1-3 months in advance depending on type of event. Presentation is everything! You do not have to spend thousands of dollars on invitations just make sure they are simple and elegant. Snowflake Gift Company is one of my personal favorites for three dimensional invitations.

5. Do you have a staff - to mail invites, assist with guest list, greet guests at event, ect

*Charity Events* - When doing fundraisers you must allot one year or more to its planning. Large corporate sponsors for example, American Airlines request your application for sponsorship 6 months to a year prior to your event. Also, its best to approach companies the first of the year, because that's when they plan their budget, and a certain amount of money is allocated to charities.

As you see there are many steps that go into planning a successful event. I just touched on 5 key points, which is just the tip of the iceberg. Let Lavish Lifestyles worry about the details while you set back and be a guest at your next event!! http://www.lavishlifestylesla.com/ 310-499-3968

Sexy Boutique Hotel Opens In Istanbul, Turkey

Looking for someplace new and exciting to take your sweetheart this summer? Why not check out the W's first hotel in Europe. I know Cabo is close, but most of us living in California have been there at least once. Plus, this isn't your typical W hotel its actually a row of remodeled historical houses built back in the 1800's. Though its outer facade was preserved, the W spared no expense to create a luxurious and sexy experience once inside. The walls even appear to be covered in Gold!

Enjoy a lazy afternoon relaxing in the jacuzzi on your terrace

( choose a speciality suite because like most European Hotels standard rooms are quite small ) or venture out to shops reminiscent of Rodeo Drive: Jimmy Choo, Bottega Veneta, and Marc Jacobs to name a few.

Lastly, enjoy a couples massage at the on-site Estee Lauder Spa, once relaxed, head over to the hotel's signature restaurant Spice Market for a romantic candlelight dinner. FYI: Chef Jean-Georges opened Spice Market( Asian fusion), located in NYC several years ago and this is its first International location. The food is yummy!

What are you waiting for? Start packing your bags!

A Fun Saturday With Your Sweetheart!

WEEKLY LAVISH LIFESTYLES FAVORITES

SPA: Voda Spa in West Hollywood. You do not have to travel to Arizona for the ultimate spa experience.This spa is simply amazing it has one cafe and one restaurant with a full service bar. Not to mention an Olympic size pool, jacuzzi, and rooftop sun deck. Their treatment rooms are simple but their services are far from it. Whether you get a massage or a salt scrub you will be in heaven at this 20,000 sq foot spa facility. A private mini-spa room is also available for those seeking ultimate privacy and romance!

RESTAURANT: Republic on La Cienga in West Hollywood. The food is absolutely delicious. The ambiance/decor is somewhat reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour. Try the shrimp and grits appetizer which is elegantly prepared with a light red sauce. Also, don't forget to have the wine fairy scale the wine wall for your favorite red/white wine. This restaurant can be romantic or a nice place for a business dinner.

SPECIALITY DRINK SPOT: Takami Sushi & Elevate Lounge offers breathtaking views of downtown LA. This hidden hot spot occupies the penthouse of a nondescript office building. You can choose to sit inside at their small bar or outside on a nice size wrap around deck. The drinks are strong and very exotic...i.e red rose petals and other floral arrangements. Fri/Sat nights why not do dinner and stay for the party. A great DJ comes on around 9pm playing a mix of r&b, rock, and pop. There's also a dance floor so you can work off the calories from dinner and drinks :)

ROMANTIC EXPERIENCE: So, based on the above you have two options: Option One: you can do a half day at the spa ( massage, facial, salt scrub, light lunch) and then head over to Republic (10 minutes away) for dinner. Also, why not spoil her and hire a chauffeur for the day, therefore you both can sit back, relax and enjoy each other. Option Two: Do a full day at the spa including dinner (great menu) and head downtown for after dinner desserts and dancing at Elevate Lounge.

Like these ideas? Looking for a customized experience? Want us to make the arrangements for you? Please don't hesitate to ask?

Never worry about planning a special evening with your wife or girlfriend again!

Want to be the perfect boyfriend or husband when it comes to planning romantic times with your special someone? Do you find your special someone saying "honey, why don't you surprise me anymore, or let's try this new restaurant that just opened on Sunset?"

Well, that's all about to change! Lavish Lifestyles, luxury personal concierge, was formed basically out of necessity to assist you in planning a romantic outing or vacation with your special someone. We arrange anything your heart desires whether simple or extravagant. We promise to save you both time and effort in the creation of your perfect evening. Imagine her bragging to all her girlfriends that she never has to lift a finger when it comes to planning romantic activities for you both to share. ( shhh...we won't tell her it was really Lavish Lifestyles).

Furthermore, in an effort to keep your relationship fresh and exciting each week Lavish Lifestyles will post a list of romantic spots in Los Angeles, NYC and some cities in between; along with one signature romantic or adventurous experience. If you live in LA or NYC and would like to become a member contact http://www.lavishlifestylesla.com/
and start enjoying exciting members only benefits . Members have access to their own personal concierge 7 days/week 9am-9pm and VIP members even have access on all major holidays.

Single? No worries, Lavish Lifestyles arranges signature experiences ranging from golf outings, to flying a real military fighter jet to swimming with sharks in South Africa. Plus much more!

Isn't it about time you sat back and relaxed?