California Life and Style

07/28/2025

Hey Friends!! I’m excited to share that as of July 8, 2025, I’ve added a new position to my roster—as Chief of Brand & Marketing Strategy, CMO, at La Lieff Wines! 🍷

Having helped launch La Lieff Wines, as a consultant in 2022, a female owned wine brand by our own Gretchen Lieff, I’ve now stepped into a leadership role to guide our hospitality and retail strategy across key markets in the USA and abroad, with focus on the California Central Coast, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.

Let’s connect if you’re in hospitality or retail and interested in tasting the best California Central Coast Cool Climate Syrah, Grenache or Rosé. 🥂🌸

07/13/2025

Dear friends,

Welcome to Petite Wine Traveler, your Sunday escape into the world of wine, travel, and refined living.

This week, I’m staying closer to home and embracing the charm of Santa Barbara—California’s own American Riviera. With its coastal breezes, boutique wineries, chic hotels, and vibrant culinary scene, this region is a celebration of luxurious moments and slow travel.

If you love wine, travel and luxury hospitality, or just love a great glass of Pinot by the ocean—this one's for you. 🍷🌴



Read, subscribe and share: ⬇️

Luxury Wine Travel in Santa Barbara

05/22/2025

Celebrating my 13th year on Facebook. Thank you for your continuing support. I could never have made it without you. 🙏🤗🎉

04/23/2025

PS. I Love You: Why Palm Springs is Always on My Must-Visit List!! ☀️🌴🏜️

There’s something about the desert air, a splash of poolside glamour, and the hum of classic convertibles cruising by that makes me fall in love with Palm Springs all over again – every single time. This year, I was lucky enough to experience the magic during Modernism Week’s 20th anniversary and let me say… it was a design-lover’s dream come true!

See story in link in bio/ Montecito Journal- https://www.montecitojournal.net/2025/04/22/ps-i-love-you-why-palm-springs-is-always-on-my-must-visit-list/

There’s something about the desert air, a splash of poolside glamour, and the hum of classic convertibles cruising by that makes me fall in love with Palm Springs all over again – every single time. This year, I was lucky enough to experience the magic during Modernism Week’s20th anniversary a...

01/18/2025

California needs YOUR love and support after the devastating fires. The best way? Vacation in the Golden State! 🌴 From the stunning Sonoma Coast to the magic of Disneyland, every visit helps rebuild our local communities. Spend your money where it matters—on California-grown, California-made, and California-loved. 🌊🌲

🌟 25 Must-Visit Destinations

Catalina Island – Crystal-clear coves & island vibes.
Disneyland – The magic awaits!
Santa Barbara Harbor – Coastal charm & fresh seafood.
San Francisco Wharf – Iconic views & clam chowder.
Napa Valley – World-class wine country escape.
Sonoma Coast – Rugged cliffs & serene beaches.
Big Sur – Epic drives & dramatic coastline.
Yosemite National Park – Waterfalls & granite cliffs.
Lake Tahoe – Year-round mountain beauty.
Joshua Tree – Desert magic & starry skies.
San Diego – Laid-back vibes & stunning beaches.
Palm Springs – Relaxation meets retro glam.
Monterey Bay – Marine life & scenic coastline.
Sequoia National Park – Towering trees & tranquil trails.
Santa Cruz – Surf culture & family fun.
Mammoth Lakes – Outdoor paradise.
Death Valley – Otherworldly desert beauty.
Mount Shasta – A nature lover’s dream.
Lassen Volcanic Park – Unique geothermal wonders.
Santa Ynez Wine Country – Sip in peaceful vineyards.
Hollywood Walk of Fame – Star-studded adventures.
LA Farmers Market – Taste fresh, local California.
Queen Mary, Long Beach – History and harbor views.
Danish Town, Solvang – European charm in wine country.
Redondo Beach – Sun, sand, and seaside fun.

🌼 Look for California-grown flowers, fruits, and goods while you’re here. Supporting local means supporting recovery. Every bite, sip, and purchase makes a difference! Let’s rebuild California together. Please share!!! 🙏🏼

.wines

01/11/2025

with .repost
・・・
The recent LA fires have been devastating, and my heart aches for everyone affected. Stories of lost homes, cherished memories, and lives have been heartbreaking, yet the kindness and generosity of people stepping up to help reminds us there is still good in the world. Even in dark times, love and light can shine through. ❤️

Now, more than ever, it’s important to spread positivity. Avoid complaining or speaking negatively about others—when we do, it really says more about what’s in our own heart, than about them. 😞

Instead, let’s focus on being a force for good. Share kindness, repost resources for those in need, post uplifting messages, and offer hope. Refrain from negative comments on social media. The energy you put out into the world matters, and positivity has a way of coming back to you, and has the power to change the world!

If you need someone to talk to, I’m here. I know people often think I’m too busy, but I’m never too busy to lend a shoulder to cry on or an ear to listen.

Let’s rise above the negativity and inspire hope. Be a light for others, and together, we can create a ripple effect of love and kindness the world so desperately needs. ✨

08/26/2024

08/22/2024

If you missed last week’s Sta. Rita Hills Wine Alliance Annual Wine & Fire festival, don’t worry I’ve got you covered!! Check out this weeks Santa Barbara Independent for coverage of the “La Paulee Dinner” under the stars, honoring Hitching Post wines! ✨ Petite Wine Traveler

https://www.independent.com/2024/08/21/celebrating-hitching-posts-frank-ostini-and-gray-hartley-winemakers-of-the-year/

La Paulée Dinner brings Burgundy tradition to Sta. Rita Hills.

08/03/2024

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jamie Knee...

08/01/2024

Happy !

Founded by Petite Wine Traveler this delightful holiday is celebrated August 1. It’s thrilling to see it celebrated around the world.
🥂🧡☀️

National Spritz Day perfectly aligns with the California lifestyle—think sunshine, ocean breezes, and laid-back elegance. There's nothing quite like enjoying a cool, refreshing spritz under the California sun. It's a celebration that captures the essence of California life and style.

National Spritz Day, celebrated at the end of summer, is the perfect occasion to enjoy refreshing spritz beverages. Whether it's an Aperol Spritz, a champagne cocktail, a French 75, or another spritz drink, the warm weather and effervescent bubbles create a festive atmosphere.

How to Celebrate National Spritz Day:

Gather with Colleagues and Friends:
Celebrate by inviting colleagues and friends to your favorite bar for a delicious spritz after work. Alternatively, take a well-deserved break, relax by the pool, and enjoy some spritzes in the sunshine.

Crafting the Perfect Aperol Spritz:
For those who enjoy making their own cocktails, an Aperol Spritz is simple to prepare using the 3-2-1 rule:

Fill a large stemmed glass with ice.
Add three parts chilled prosecco.
Mix in two parts Aperol.
Top with one part sparkling water.
Garnish with an orange wheel for a touch of elegance.

Cheers to a wonderful ! 🥂🧡

https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/national-spritz-day/

Savoring a bubbly, refreshing concoction with a zestful twist, elevating your beverage experience to pure effervescence.

07/16/2024

🎉🍇 Hey Wine Lovers! 🍇🎉

Summer vibes are here, and as your Santa Barbara Wine Expert, I've got the perfect wine pairings to make your sunny days even brighter! ☀️🌿 Dive into my latest article for a rundown on the most gorgeous white wines that are absolutely perfect for summer sipping.

Ready to host the ultimate summer soirée? Let me be your personal sommelier and turn your event into the talk of the town! 🍷🥳 From curated wine selections to perfect pairings, I'll ensure your guests have an unforgettable experience. Petite Wine Traveler

Check out the article and let's make this summer spectacular together!

👉 https://www.montecitojournal.net/2024/07/16/white-wine-summer-in-santa-barbara-wine-county/

Sunshine, sandals, and sipping something cool – that’s the ultimate summer trifecta, right? As your proud Santa Barbara wine expert and self-proclaimed white wine enthusiast, I’m here to declare this the summer of white wine!