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The Ivy and Indigo Seas



~~ republishing a post ~~

Dining is closed here in Southern California
so I am revisiting a magical lunch!

~~~~~~


In my effort to to instigate some new holiday traditions this year
Jeff and I took off for LA this weekend
for lunch at the iconic Ivy restaurant.


I have to admit it's reputation as a star gathering place
had me very intrigued
and 
when it was time to drive up
it also had me a little nervous and intimidated as well.

There was a moment before we got out
that Jeff and I asked ourselves
if we really wanted to do this …

and
I am so glad we bit the bullet and just went for it!


I have heard stories of people lunching at The Ivy for years and years
but 
I had no idea what a truly charming and cozy space it actually is!
As far away from my idea of what a Hollywood hot spot could possibly be!
It is so warm and inviting 
with all the comforts of visiting someones home.
Every seat had the most wonderful down pillows
always at the ready for a comforting meal.


Upon checking in for our reservations
we were ushered inside to the small bar
and
 served complimentary champagne
by the most attractive of servers
all attired in perfectly crisp pink shirts and white aprons
while we waited for our table.

Not being a celebrity
I wondered what far off corner of the restaurant we would end up
but I had decided before hand
to enjoy our lunch 
no matter where we sat …
because at least we were 
at The Ivy!


So I had to pinch myself when we ended up with a perfect table out front on the patio!
There was so much to take in
it seemed like a blur
as we sat down
to make decisions on what to eat!


Every where I looked there was such beauty
from the vases
stuffed tight with multi colored roses on every table
to the hand crafted stone wear at each place setting
to the murmur of interesting conversations all around …

I was so happy to be actually  sitting outside  on the patio at The Ivy
on a most beautiful crystal clear day
I felt absolutely giddy inside
and 
it took a lot to effort on my part
not to squeal in delight!


The Ivy is so well known as a celebrity hot spot
that tour buses  literally make the rounds out front on a regular basis!

So it took me a little bit 
to actually relax into the experience.


I understand now the draw of the restaurant
the food is incredible
as is the exceedingly attentive staff.


It was a lunch that I didn't want to end
but the time did come
but I made sure to order some cookies to take home …
just to bring a little bit of our magical lunch home with us.


We decided out front was as perfect place as any 
to take some outfit shots
being as we were so taken with the patina of the exterior…


As we were finishing up the pictures
we realized that behind us
wasn't the Ivy restaurant at all …
but instead an interiors shop
that had all of the interior ambiance as the Ivy itself!


Come to find out we had almost literally stumbled on
what I was soon to find out

The Indigo Seas
which Harper Bazaar Magazine
deems
one of the 25 best boutiques in the world!


As we were looking around in amazement at the beauties in the shop
I was approached by a most beautiful woman
who said she had seen me from outside
and
 had loved my outfit so much
and 
that it reminded her of being Paris.

Wow, one look at this stylish woman
complimenting me so beautifully
well ...
my day was pretty much made!


As we talked further
it took me some time to realize
that I was talking with the one and only
Lynn Von Kersting
 co owner of the Ivy 
and 
the creator  of the beautiful
  Indigo Seas!


Lynn is an absolute delight
 She shared with me how much of her style is influenced 
by places from all around the world
where in  many of the locales she has homes as well.


We were lucky enough to get a tour  of her back room
which housed so many more beautiful collections.
I was so charmed by Lynn
and 
ever so grateful
when she sent us home with so many 
beautiful treasures
from an iconic Capri scarf
a cozy chintz pillow
mugs of her own design
that the Ivy is known for …

and
most captivating to be sure
a copy of her book

Amore e Gioia Sotto il Sole
An Indigo Seas scrapbook of Ivy recipes and summer snapshots


It is such a beautiful coffee table book
 I have already spent hours devouring it.

I also have  visions of summer parties next year
using the recipes she shares form the Ivy
with dreams 
also 
of visiting the Island of Capri myself!

It is a joyous book of sunshine
and
 romantic gatherings!


I am excited to weave some of Lynn's magic
into my own life …


Thank you Lynn for sharing your passion for beauty and life with me.

Your compliment on my outfit
will always be a moment 
I hold near and dear to my heart.


As always my friends


I wish you love and joy
as you style your life

PS….

I was ever so happy today to see
The Ivy
shared this post on their
Facebook and twitter!



Thank you India!




linking with
Style Mind Chic





59 comments:

  1. Tamera, you looked stunning. I'll bet the other diners were wondering which star was in their midst! What a fun day.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you my dear! It was indeed a magical day!

      I enjoyed seeing your beautiful and cozy Colorado home … just perfect for holiday memories in the making!

      xoxo
      Tamera

      Delete
  2. Oh My Goodness Tamera! What perfect evidence of good kharma! You are so open and sharing of yourself here on your blog...always gifting us with your beautiful photos and poetic words. Whether it be fashion, beauty, or lifestyle, you never fail to brighten my day. Not only that, you face your personal challenges with integrity, honesty, and hope. It's no surprise to me that the co-owner of The Ivy and creator of Indigo Seas (love that name), Ms. Lynn Von Kersting, saw a kindred spirit in you!

    And yes! You do look fabulous!!!

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    Replies
    1. Dearest Sue … what a rich gift of words and sentiment you have given to me here … Such generosity and love. My heart and soul thank you.

      I am sending you all the very best in holiday wishes … to you and yours!

      xoxo
      Tamera

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  3. My beautiful friend, I echo Sue's words to the T, since she says it so perfectly. You have such a beautiful, unique style which you carry with such personal confidence. The added warmth you present with your lovely smile and genuine caring for others is quite evident in the manner in which you draw others towards you. What a treasure it is to call you my friend.

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    Replies
    1. Awww my dear, dear friend … thank you so very much. Your words warm my heart! You know I feel the same of you …you are always a beacon of love and light!

      I am so excited that your girls will soon be home for the holidays!! Thank you so much for sharing such beautiful glimpses of life with your Molly Doll. You all have me rethinking my thoughts on grandchildren! Now it looks like the next great phase of family life!

      xoxo
      Tamera

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  4. I used to be a hostess at the Ivy back in the 1980's. Lynn is quite the perfectionist. It was fun working there and it's true, the desserts are divine.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. My dear … you must have been there in the very beginning! I am sure you have some fun stories of the place!

      I am sending you big holiday hugs!

      xoxo
      Tamera

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    2. Yep. I worked there before the tourists had discovered it. It was kind of a hidden place FILLED with the celebrities of the day. Shabby Chic was hardly a thing back then so it was quite unique. And to be hired one had to have a certain "look" I don't know if it's still like that but it was fun to be working amongst fellow bohemian types. I remember I wore a lot of thrift store dresses and ankle sox which is funny because I find myself dressing like that again these days. Life kind of goes in cycles, doesn't it? Looooove your style. You really bring it! XXOO

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  5. Thank you for sharing your lunch date, your photos are truly beautiful, I am sure you captured the essence of the Ivy. You look simply beautiful, every inch the star, no wonder you were noticed. Inspirational dear Tamera.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you so much my dear! After seeing your abundant roses and architectural detail of your magnificent home … I have no doubt you to would so enjoy the Ivy!

      Sending you holiday hugs! I always so appreciate you visits and gifts of words!

      xoxo
      Tamera

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  6. How divine the decode is gorgeous and very beautiful- just my taste! You look perfectt oo!

    I love all those cushions and chairs x

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    Replies
    1. My dearest Faux … I actually thought of you while I was there …with the abundant use of down cushions everywhere … and pitchers stuffed with roses … I just know you would love The Ivy!

      Sending you big holiday hugs!

      xoxo
      Tamera

      Delete
  7. Looks like a place I would love and would do well in my part of the country! Decor is so much fun and you look lovely as always, Tamera!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Pam thank you ever so much! I am sure you would adore the Ivy my dear!

      Big holiday hugs to you. I hope things are well for you.

      xoxo
      Tamera

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  8. What a gorgeous setting, to match your beautiful look. Love that vest! Thanks for sharing with Visible Monday, xo.

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    Replies
    1. Patti thank you my dear! It is always a pleasure to share with your Visible Monday!

      xoxo
      Tamera

      Delete
  9. OH BOY!
    I too was sent their BOOK...........then searched the INTERNET for the other BOOK!!!They have an Instagram account which I follow and adore.............since this past summer.I have been to the shop once many years ago!My husband grew up in the summer time on the ISLE of CAPRI!I practice my Italian with Lynn's daughter on IN.They have two dogs that are a RIOT of DELIGHT!MY DREAM........these past few months has been to fly down lunch and shop..............shall we meet up at the IVY?Roses, picket fences,colorful pillows..........is MY cup of TEA!I cannot believe how small this world is.............and I found out about INDIGO SEAS when I went to MONTECITO and stayed with PENELOPE to go to LOTUSLAND.............remember you too were to meet up with me!!!!OH< MERRY ME!ANother thing we have in common!MERRY CHRISTMAS.................XO

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello my dearest Contessa! Here our paths cross once again … by now neither of us should be surprised! but I still couldn't believe when I saw that India followed you too … and they certainly don't follow many!

      So great to talk to you today my friend! It is always such
      a joy to catch up with you! My Always glamorous friend!

      xoxo
      Tamera

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  10. Tamera, to us fellow fashion bloggers, you are every bit a CELEBRITY and totally belong at the Ivy. I have always wanted to go there myself, but have always been a bit intimidated by the place. Maybe next year I'll get my nerve up!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marea … thank you for your kind words! The Ivy was well worth … overcoming my intimidation … and was actually so warm and inviting! It's always those first steps in those circumstances … but the occasions are always all the sweeter because of it! I highly recommend the Ivy the next time you are down!

      xoxo
      Tamera

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  11. Lucious and lovely the lunch, the Ivy, shop and your glamorous style....

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you my dear! Always so happy for your visit!

      xoxo
      Tamera

      Delete
  12. Wow! You looked gorgeous and wouldn't fit in more perfectly with the clientele of The Ivy.
    The one in London is gorgeous, but a little more formal in terms of it's interior. I think I would have much preferred to be at your table ;-)

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    Replies
    1. Hello dear Vannessa! Yes, your Ivy in London appears much more formal … but I hear it has a similar draw of celebrities. I do so love the Ivy here in SoCal … it is absolutely cozy but still with a feeling of abundant luxury. I am sure you would adore it!

      Thanks for visiting … it's always so lovely to hear from you!

      big holiday hugs being sent your way!

      xoxo
      Tamera

      Delete
  13. Dear Tamera, you look like the Star in your gorgeous ensemble!! What kismet and serendipity follows you in your travels!
    A treasure to meet Lynn and be the recipient of her generosity after that fabulous meal!

    xoxo
    Karena
    The Arts by Karena

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you so my dear friend! It was truly kismet to meet the fabulous Lynn … she is absolutely as gracious and warm … as her interiors would predict!

      Hope you are doing well! Sending you big holiday hugs!

      xoxo
      Tamera

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  14. You look like a movie star! I adore that outfit, especially the colours and flow. What a wonderful Christmas tradition...thanks very much for sharing your experience at both the Ivy and the Indigo Seas. I love the bright colours.

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    Replies
    1. Thank you dear Holli! It is certainly a fun outfit to wear … because of the movement and textures!

      Yes, I am realizing new Christmas traditions can be just as joyful … as the old … they are just different!

      Sending holiday hugs your way!

      xoxo
      Tamera

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  15. of course she complimented you on your outfit, it was beautiful! what a fun outing. lunch looked incredible! Becky

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    Replies
    1. Thank you Becky for your sweet words and for visiting!

      xoxo
      Tamera

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  16. VA-VA-VOOM and OH LA LA..... YOU are the one that looks like a celebrity!

    Thank you Tamara for the "Ivy Restaurant" tip.....another place for me and my boyfriend (actually my husband.....smile) to go to.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey darling … thank you!!!

      Yes … you must do the Ivy the next time you are in town with your boyfriend :))

      Sending you big, big holiday hugs my dear!

      xoxo
      Tamera

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  17. I cannot imagine being at a restaurant with my husband and documenting it with photos. I mean no offense but doesn't it get in the way of enjoying the moment?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh my husband is fabulous about it … and has turned into a wonderful photographer as well. Traveling to new destinations together … and taking taking photos of new places has actually turned into a most lovely activity for us now that our kids have grown … and we have been married over 27 years. Sometimes it's a way to celebrate and savor moments as well.

      Thank you for your visit my dear!

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    2. It sounds like you two have so much fun together. Enjoy!

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  18. Wow, what an amazing day! You look gorgeous, no wonder you caught India's attention. All this time I've lived in LA and have never been to the Ivy...am going to have to fix that omission soon! And will have to visit the Indigo Seas boutique too.

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    1. My dear … I think you are overdue for a trip to the Ivy! Jeff and I were wondering why it had taken us so long to get there!

      Thank you for your visit! Sending you big holiday hugs!

      xoxo
      Tamera

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  19. Tamera, Thank you for sharing your day at two of my favorite spots ever. You and I are both thrilled with the beautiful details of places and where to begin with the Ivy? I love it all- the dishes, the unbelievable roses, the pewter vases, floral pillows, not to mention the excellent food and pretty touches like mint and sugar cane in your drinks!! I have been 3 times and was in heaven and remember every bit. I cannot believe you got to meet Lynn Von Kersting!!! I have pages of her rooms saved from magazines and love her taste and all she does. Of course she noticed you right away. What fun Tamera. I am wishing to get back there again soon. I'll have to follow them on Instagram! xo Kim

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    1. So good to hear from you my dear friend! You are so right in mentioning our shared love of beautiful details … and the Ivy is just abundant with them! Yes, eating on such fabulous dishes was such a treat … it seems that even at the fanciest of restaurants … they are always taking away the beautiful plates … replacing them with plain for service!

      Lucky you to have been to the Ivy three times already!! I can't wait to go back myself!

      So when are you all coming down south here … to look at colleges?

      It was so good to hear from you! I am sending big, big hugs to you and yours this holiday season! I look forward to the next time I get to see your beautiful face in person!

      xoxo
      Tamera

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  20. All the photos are dream worthy as is your outfit. As I turn in for the night , I am sure these photos shall dance through my thoughts all night.

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    Replies
    1. Why thank you Stephanie for your beautiful words .. they are much appreciated!

      xoxo
      Tamera

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  21. What a beautiful day! My daughter and I have an annual tradition. Every year during the Easter holiday we go to The Ivy...Kristin and I have been going every year for about 12 years... I love going for lunch because not only is the food good and beautiful but the atmosphere is so pretty. I wished it was closer I would definitely go more often. I have the coffee table book as well. Thank you for sharing your day and the beautiful pictures!!!

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    1. Loreen how lovely to see your comment my dear! What an astounding Easter tradition you and your daughter, (who is just stunning by the way) have! I can see going to the Ivy is a new holiday tradition for Jeff and I!

      Thanks so much for visiting! Sending you and your lovely daughter big holiday hugs!

      xoxo
      Tamera

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    2. Your magic of THE IVY and gorgeous YOU traveled the miles and made me smile as I carefully enjoyed each picture and every memory...Thank you for going and for sharing...I, too, had a most fantastic experience...

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  22. Loved these pix Tamera! I've had this place on my To Do list forever if I ever get to LA as I love her sense of style and color and cozy cottage. I have seen many articles in mags about this place over the years and it's so unique-looking and your pix of it are fab! You truly look like the ultimate Movie Star in that chic white outfit! Kudos to you for dressing to be yourself! Happy Holidays in OC from San Diego!

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  23. What a fun story Tamera! And why am I not surprised that you ended up at a great table? They were probably wondering what movie they knew you from...you looked so glamorous. Loved hearing how you bumped into the owner.
    xo
    Leslie

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  24. As those of us who live in California are aware, all restaurants are closed for in-dining under Governor's order. It you dined at The Ivy prior to the current Covid lockdown, it would be nice if you made a notation as to the date.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. JUST LOOK AT THE FIRST FEW COMMENTS!
      THESE PHOTOS ARE FROM DECEMBER 2014!!!
      ALSO on HER INSTAGRAM SHE SAID SHE RE-POSTING!!!

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    2. Thank you Dawn for your good suggestion. I have now added that at the top. Thank you for visiting my dear!

      Delete
    3. Thank you so much dearest Elizabeth! XOX

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    4. LaContessa, don't shout at me. Thank you Tamera for now noting it at the top.

      Delete
    5. NOT SHOUTING!!!!
      FULL OF JOY AND EXCITEMENT!
      I WRITE THE WAY I SPEAK.........GLAD YOU GOT CLARIFICATION!

      Delete
  25. Before Lockdown, before all of this, The Ivy was always a fun and delicious place to go to. Elizabeth and I have been there a number of times. It's fun place to go to with out of towners also. BTW, Lyn lives just around the corner from me. Small world. You made the place when you were there. Looking so European and grand. I'm sure they loved having you there! Your own star shinning.

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    1. I remember reading about you and Elizabeth dining there ... and being so intrigued! I have no doubt you know all of the great LA spots my dear!! I am always looking for new places when venturing up from Orange County ... often feeling like the country mouse visiting! when all this craziness is over ... I would love to meet you both for an Ivy lunch! Thank you so much foe visiting here, my dear! XOX

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  26. I RECALL THIS LIKE IT WAS YESTERDAY................I MET SANDRA IN THE SHOP FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME!!
    LYNN recognized me from MY INSTAGRAM FEED which I believe HER DAUGHTER INDIA RAN.MAGICAL INDEED!
    BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES!!!
    SIX YEARS AGO........SEEMS LIKE TWO!
    XX

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    Replies
    1. Elizabeth I do believe it might have been you and Sandra going, and seeing you post about it ... that pushed me to go!! You all always know the best places my friend!! Thank you so much for revisiting here with me today! I sure would love to have lunch with the two of you there ... someday ... when we open back up, here in California! XOX

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    2. NOW THAT WOULD BE FUN!
      LETS MAKE IT HAPPEN IN 2021!!!
      HUGS TO YOU,
      XOXO

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    3. We definitely need to make this happen!! XOX

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