Truth be told, most of my shopping, throughout the year, is done online.
With 2 kids, work, and everything in-between, my free time is most always – not free, but rushed.
That said, I really look forward to the holiday season; a time when I enjoy setting time aside, to visit holiday boutiques and beautifully decorated shops; with family and friends.
It’s only December 11th, but it’s already proven to be, a month of eye candy and fun!
The season kicked off Thanksgiving weekend, with a trip to Filoli Gardens, with my daughter, mother-in-law, and her sister. My mother-in-law, Lynn and I, have been coming to this fabulous boutique, for at least 15 years – as a holiday tradition. My daughter had her first visit to Filoli – in a Baby Bjorn, when she was only 7 months old.
This Woodside estate, set in 16 acres of formal gardens is famous for many things. In film, it is the mansion (the Carrington mansion), seen from the air in the opening credits of the television series Dynasty as well as the movie The Game, amongst others. The site is both a California Historical Landmark, and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
To read more, click HERE. It’s truly fabulous!
The home and gardens alone are a site to see, but during Holiday Traditions, the home is opened up, to visit and shop their fabulous boutique and garden shop.
How’s this for a stairwell?
And that mantel – love it all!
The 2-room kitchen, is a room I always look forward to visiting:
An example of darlingness, in one of the many sitting rooms,
and I just adore this Christmas china,
Holly Square by M. Bagwell. Also available at Linen and Boxwoods HERE
Best part though? Spending the day, with this one!
Earlier this week, I met my girlfriend Celeste for lunch and some gift shopping.
Shopping and lunching is always a treat during the holidays!
After seeing some fab gift items, at a Ladies Luncheon, we wanted to pay a visit to Toss Designs, then grab a bite to eat, at a favorite lunch spot, Mayfield Bakery.
As I was heading out the door (late), I set her a text with my ETA.
And what she said back,
Been there? The parking, the rush….
ugh, it’s holiday craziness!
But today, was my lucky day, as I was able to snag a spot – as soon as I pulled in to the crowded parking lot.
And head traight over to Toss,
a gift lovers dream!
There was so much to love.
From fun aprons and sleep shirts to monograming on everything you can imagine. Toss has something for every gal on your list- we had so much fun checking names off our gift list!
Those red zebra totes? Available for monogramming – while you wait!
We both loved these felt totes:
The big tote, is expandable, HERE and I love the matching pouch HERE.
A monogram can be ironed on, while you wait – on to countless items in the store.
The sales gals here, are SUPER helpful and patient.
Meet Molly and Marissa.
As you can see, they had their hands full, with the two of us!
they also carry super cute nightshirts and capes/wraps – as you can see behind me.
Toss Designs, has 5 stores, here in the Bay Area; located in Danville, Palo Alto, San Anselmo plus two San Francisco locations.
They also have a website, www.TOSSDESIGNS.com.
With our list checked off, all in one spot, we had time for a leisurely lunch, with these cute little guys:
It’s for days like these, and more – that I love the holiday season.
Yes, things can get crazy and hectic at times – but, if we take it in stride, it’s a season to spend quality time and celebrate, with friends old and new, family, and co-workers.
To me, it’s a time to pause and enjoy life, and to be thankful; for how blessed we really are.
I hope we all find time, to take in all the beauty and magic, this time of year has to offer.
Whether you find yourself baking cookies with the kids, building a gingerbread house, setting up a tree, getting all dolled up for a festive holiday party or simply cozying up to the fire with a good book – I wish you all a festive, and fun weekend!
XOXO
Suzanne
Looking for fab gifts for her?
The My Favorite Things – Gift Ideas can be found HERE
Know someone who loves all things sparkley?
Meet Alexis Bittar and my faves, HERE
In need some inspo, for that upcoming holiday party?
Sale on sale on now at Anthopologie, take an extra 30% off all sale!
I picked up this long cardigan in blue for myself, its so cozy!
plus an extra 30% off!
And how fun is this poncho?
PLUS Anthro members take 25% off,all regular priced items, this weekend, as well.
I love this new wash (Slivie wash), in the Paige Verdugo skinny jean.
I tried them on this week, they look fab with grey or black (or anything for that matter!)
Reed wash,
Need another fun gift idea?
What gal wouldn’t love these fun rainboots, from Joules,
or these from Coach, available at Nordstrom, now under $100.00!
For more gift ideas, click over to this post on the blog HERE
I used to live right down the street from Filoli but haven’t been in almost 20 years. I’ll have to change that! Going every year during the holidays is such a nice tradition!
And Toss sounds like a great place. I have never been to one but will have to check them out!
Have a great weekend, Suzanne!
Hi Andrea! It’s such a fun tradition, one we all look forward to each year. This year the boutique was not as unique – but the home and garden were fabulous as always! Do check out Toss, it is so fun and there is something for everyone at every price. From hostess gifts and gifts to fun stuff for yourself – it’s worth a stop! Have a great weekend! Suzanne