I’ve been grounded for the last couple of months, and while I can’t complain (living in an amazing city like Nashville), my need to get away is approaching overdrive. Missing NYFW festivities was a limitation - I (privately) pouted a bit when seeing friends’ posts about the week.

Luckily, just as I’m strong enough to get out of the house and on the road, another annual fashion/beauty event is about to commence. The plus that it’s in a familiar place that I’ve been desperately longing to visit… my home-away-from-home in South Walton.

The view from the balcony at Sterling Shores... a glorious way to start every day of SWFW

This is only the second year for the area to host a fashion week, but based on last year’s experience…. and the incredible list of talent for 2014, it’s certain to be fantastic. Inventive designers like Mychael Knight and Jin Seo are joining 30A retailers like Willow, Alys Shoppe...and a slew of others for a schedule filled with fabulous fun. The official South Walton Fashion Week also includes red carpet glam and samples galore from Patchouli's and other beauty brand faves.

One of Jin Seo's simple, stylish designs

Getting there’s a cinch; hop on a direct flight from major Southern cities and arrive at the glorious white sand beach headquarters in an hour or less. The other option is to toss some tunes into the car (along with a couple of fun-loving girlfriends) and hit the road. Driving to the beach from anywhere in the Southeast is a fairly quick jaunt without the summer tourist traffic.

I’m most anxious to actually see our place on the beach. It’s a Sterling Resort, and the company is providing accommodations for SWFW visitors if you need a place to stay. I can personally vouch for this one. I’ll also pop over and enjoy a night or two with friends at one of the lovely Cottage Rentals of Rosemary Beach, (another lodging partner). If you’re a fan of Rosemary’s ambiance, this is the reservation to make.

Willow Boutique in Rosemary Beach

Packing for this destination isn’t usually an issue (toiletries, shorts, swimwear and sundresses and sandals live there year round). For SWFW, I'll need a couple of things. I’ve made a list of packing essentials that vary a bit from my usual beach look.

HAIR

My typical ‘do’ is an elastic band. That’s not going to cut it for a stylish soiree and runway show viewing. Ocean breezes and humidity change everything, so casually chic hair isn’t totally effortless. Thank goodness for the new collection of ‘mini’ essentials from Drybar. The line smells incredible… and the components are little powerhouses for taming the most unruly mane (aka, mine). This collection is now available online. I also suggest the Drybar's new Triple Sec 3-in-one spray (dry shampoo/volume/texture). While I’m there, I can pick up some fun hair pins/headbands to change it up a bit from day to night, but having these miracle-workers will make that an option...not a requirement. 

I love everything on the Drybar menu.. and my top picks are now in mini versions, while they last...

SHOES

This is always a tough one at the beach. My worn flip-flops won’t do. I’m opting for a couple of wooden wedge designs for the higher heel height I want, but more sturdy support for my just-recovered status. They’re also the best for avoiding slipping on those pesky pebbles that teeter heels at every location near the water.

CLOTHES

I’m packing a couple of good foundation items/layering tanks and a jacket. Otherwise, I have no intention of packing a single outfit. That’s what this trip is all about. Navigating the shops is much easier than trying to create an ensemble in a big city fashion week, which is more about pre-orders. The boutiques peppered along 30A and my go-to’s in Sandestin carry incredibly stylish, quality goods from trusted designers… and at a fair price. I can’t wait to find items to get me not only through a few days of festivities, but to add to my fall wardrobe (which definitely needs a boost).

Looking forward to a little porch time between shows at this Rosemary Beach cottage (rent the one next door!)

In addition to runway events and parties, design savvy retailers are hosting trunk shows. Most include bubbly (thank you) with fab pieces for purchase you can’t find elsewhere.

The best part about this trip is making the decision to go last minute. Not planning too far ahead is completely freeing. Throw some things together and take off…. work and laundry will be waiting when you get home. Seriously,  it's the best weather of the year and possibly the most enjoyable fall week (or long weekend-- Oct 9-11 are key dates) experience in the South. Pick up your phone, text your fashion-loving friends, get your tickets and join me at the beach. Hope to see you on the red carpet at Grand Boulevard!

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 I’ve spent more time at home than ever this season. Cooking, entertaining, making cocktails and working on the house and garden has been a retreat. I’ve been soaking up every moment.

The newly opened dining room at Adele's on 12th Avenue is a bustling foodie destination.

While there’s no place like home, venturing out is a bit like traveling to a new city as dinner and entertainment options have literally blossomed overnight –. I never agreed with those complaining about Nashville dining in the past, as several greats just get better with time. Just this week, we had a late night date for sushi at Virago and the food's even better than I remember. and it’s been awhile. Fresh and fab new menu items will keep us coming back.

Adele was Waxman's grandmother, and eating here definitely feels like home-cooked comfort. 

What’s most exciting is trying entirely new places. Within two weeks, a couple of anticipated destinations have opened. The first is the anticipated Adele’s Nashville. If you aren’t familiar, just Google Chef Jonathan Waxman for a bit of background; his simple approach to food is soothing and satisfying, I appreciate Adele’s location and transformation of the historic building and former tire garage. It’s familiar but completely elevated, just like the cuisine. 

This Adele's salad of shaved vegetables is so simply prepared but a feast of seasonal flavors.

Open, light-filled space and a chef’s bar for watching skilled hands working over an open fire are elements I like most. Well, that and possibly the best salad I’ve had in the city this year. Adele’s isn’t pretentious or overdone, but a casually chic spot to enjoy consistently good food and service.

Grab a seat at Adele's chef's bar for the best view and some tips on technique. It's dinner and a show...

Another location many don’t know about yet is Sinema – located in the iconic Melrose theater. While I had heard talk of incredible restorations, I wasn’t prepared for Sinema’s level of fabulous. One of my all time favorite designers, and friend, KathyAnderson always incorporates a unique, refined aesthetic. Her meticulous vision for this two-story masterpiece is definitely going to capture the attention of national design publications and editors. In one word: Wow. In three words: Make a reservation! 

Stunning photographs, posh fabric and exposed brick make up the cozy seating areas in Sinema.
Anderson Design Studio incorporated countless architectural details throughout the restaurant. 

Nostalgia and tribute to the original theater are evident in everything from retro signage to the array of art photography and fixtures… even classic movies streaming on the wall. But, it’s far from a ‘kitschy/ themed’ environment that’s obvious. The approach is subtle, glamorous and respectful of the building’s history. If you want a preview, check out the photos on Facebook.  The food is modern but American, making it accessible to every palate.

The exterior reflects the style of classic movie theaters and dramatic entrances.

Top Chef veteran, Dale Levitski has created a lively bar menu and well composed dinner selections for his initial list of offerings in the dining room.  That’s all I’m dishing, as Sinema is something you need to experience to fully appreciate. There’s even a ‘sugar board’ for sweet cravings, just in case you need one more reason to go.

The upstairs lounge at Sinema is the coolest environment for cocktails and tastings like this octopus.
Levitski will create custom menus for private parties in the space as well.

I’m thrilled that so many restaurant visionaries are investing in Nashville. These expanded options only make living here a bit more delicious for us and for our visitors. Do share your top picks.... and what you're hoping to try next.

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We’ve all been approached to join some sort of retail ‘club’. From store accounts to restaurant rewards, offers are endless. Just like album clubs in the 80's, free samples are bait for signing up/forced monthly orders (ugh). But there are genuine, greats like Harry & David’s fruit of the month. It's actually instilled faith that a surprise in the mail on a regular basis is a good thing. I opened my mind to other affiliations and discovered many -some good, others not great... and those I just couldn’t pass up. 

Only a few made my 'must’ list -- all relative to personal interests with ties to newsletters, blogs or websites with valuable information based on how I live. Most revolve around cooking and home, as that's my current focus. 

CULINARY GENIUS

The Gracious Gourmet is just one of the food artisans featured by The Fare Trade.

For specialty culinary delivery, nothing beats The Fare Trade. Carefully selected items from all over the U.S. chosen by award-winning chefs introduce purveyors outside of mass marketed choices. The website content/blog is outstanding. In fact, it surpasses what's on television or in magazines. The best part is that items are in your hands for experimentation so that video tutorials are useful. Learning from professionals at home is fun, as is getting to know the culinary talents selecting each month’s inclusions. If you enjoy cooking classes and mastering skills like me, The Fare Trade is the ultimate treat.

http://www.thegraciousgourmet.com (photo)

FUN AND FIT

Just a few of the items from the Spring VIP Box via FabFitFun.

At first I wasn’t sold on this. I previously tried BirchBox and wasn’t thrilled with sample sizes of (mostly) familiar products. But,VIP seasonal deliveries from FabFitFun are diverse, full sized and contain items I don't see elsewhere. My spring box included a dry shampoo I love, a headband I didn't, a fitness ball/DVD that travels with me, and new organic kale chip that’s now a staple. The summer box contains a launch from the amazing Sonya Dakar, so I’m psyched about the arrival. I follow FabFitFun online for tastemaker and wellness guru contributions (a bit of daily inspiration). For a mix of skincare, healthy eating, exercise and trends, the VIP box + uplifting emails is the whole package. It’s the only membership delivery service of personal products that I completely endorse. 

FRESH 

Six Boots Collective isn’t really a club, but the CSA program we’ve chosen for the season. A box of produce, herbs and flowers from 3 Middle Tennessee farms are delivered to my door each Saturday. This container of goodness guarantees I’ll stay creative with cooking and preserving. It eliminates considering non-organic items from supermarkets. Locally grown, seasonal items with the bonus of a detailed newsletter including recipes make summer even sweeter. You can pick up their boxes at Nashville area farmer’s markets. CSA’s in any locale are the way to go for the most authentic produce, and an alliance you won't regret.

SAFE SNACKING

Naturally dried pears from Nature Box.

For busy days or travel, Nature Box is salvation. With dozens of snacks serving Vegan, gluten free (or just gluten conscious) or sugarless eaters, it's a source with endless options. I like the variety, quality and that things like naturally dried California peaches never disappoint. Items (from $20 per month) are prepackaged for on-the-go energy. For every box delivered, they donate a meal via Feeding America. Snacks you can feel good about all the way around are their trademark, which is another reason to sign up.

SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY

Love this mag for so many reasons.. including the intro to Box South. 

 The innovative magazine, Local Palate partnered with Box South - sent a teaser peaking interest for stocking my gift closet for summer visitors. It’s a monthly collection of Southern items including recipes, creative advice and other tidbits. I appreciate Box South's belief in not exploiting general topics like sweet tea or fried chicken, but focus on seeking the most sophisticated and gifted artisans. It’s not inexpensive, but products are special. Like the amazing Nashville-based Batch, which just expanded to feature a monthly Charleston box, it provides opportunity for our regional brands.

MOUTH

Look for unique items like this in the Cocktail Hour Box from MOUTH.

This NYC specialty retailer is known for hysterical comments, inventive culture and passion for what they term as ‘Indie Food’. Mouth offers one time purchases or special occasion deliveries, but also extends discounts on monthly totes full of goods ranging from all pickles to cookies 'for every night'. My pick is the Cocktail Hour Box. Since my pantry is stocked with items most visitors don’t favor (yep, that pesky healthy thing), this is super helpful for impromptu visitors. Every inclusion comes from American small batch creators. Mouth crafts each into a themed/curated collection. Elect to bump up from 3, 6 or 12 months.. and choose when. No crazy commitment -  just cocktail fare, craft mixers and conversation with Mouth's Indie-loving team. I'm totally tempted by their chocolate subscription, but holding fast at the moment. 

Can't wait to get the summer VIP Box from FabFitFun that includes this Goop Favorite from Sonya Dakar.

What do you think about joining a club for the sake of trying new things? Do share your thoughts... and any other clubs/sites you count on.

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It seems impossible that the holidays are almost here. While we all get caught up in events surrounding things at home, this season is also a great time to schedule a few days away. A warm weather destination or beach is a treat; but before the end of the year I like spending a couple of nights in New York City. The energy is always electric, but once the seasonal window displays and lights are up, it's one of the most captivating places on the planet.

Rockefeller Center 

If you want to go, treat yourself to a truly wonderful stay. I adore the Upper East Side and the rooms at The Carlyle in fall and winter. There's really nothing like it. When tourists are packing the streets along 5th Avenue, you can easily shop and walk without interruption or crowds as some of the best shopping is just outside the door on the chic side of Madison Avenue. Relax in Bemelmans, one of the city's coziest and most famous bars, get a fantastic blowout at the hotel's onsite celeb salon and retreat to a room with expansive views at the end of the day. This historic, luxury property offers a neighborhood feel, with the suites feeling more like an upscale apartment than a hotel.

In my favorite suite at The Carlyle decorated by Ralph Lauren. #515 -- I'm always at home here!

Perfect gifts are certainly everywhere in this neighborhood, but take time to stroll in front of the big department stores a bit further away (you can walk it, but a cab ride is much easier in cold weather). The designers, concept artists and fashion houses create imaginative scenes to view on every block. I prefer exploring after dark, when sparkling lights make the experience even more invigorating. 

Bergdorf Goodman holiday window decor 

Don't just check out the department stores, but peek into specialty shop and designer flagship windows for wonderful ideas to inspire your own decor and gift giving. You can always bring that inspiration home and shop at local vendors. It's more about getting into the holiday spirit than the actual shopping.

I fell completely in love with Hermes holiday 'wrap' display of lights. 

Holiday window at Saks 5th Avenue

 Consider the entire experience an exercise for your spirit. It might be cold, but in my opinion there's no better time to visit. Just be sure and book your flight now before things escalate to uber expensive. That way you'll have extra cash for a bottle of bubbly in your suite after a fun evening of window shopping. 

My absolute favorite holiday window at Bergdorf Goodman

What's your top choice for a pre-holiday escape? Please do share here... and look for more posts on quick getaways in upcoming posts!







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