As you know, I’m constantly on the hunt for new boutiques or antique shops here in San Francisco and when I travel. After a road trip down to Carmel to visit family a couple years ago, I was introduced to Lilify – one of my aunt’s go-to shops for unique finds. It quickly became one of my favorite places to visit when in town. Lilify is filled with so much goodness and inspiration. It’s a feast for your eyes. From the plethora of artisan goods, to the vintages finds, to the jewelry, and so much more – Hanni and Jesse have curated Lilify to perfection. Each time I’ve stepped inside it’s as though I’ve been transported into inspiration heaven. I instantly find myself picking up a handful of goodies that need to come home with me immediately. A little history on the owners. Hanni and Jesse moved to Monterey, California with the goal of putting their talents to good use by completely renovating a dilapidated building. They saw an incredible vision for what the building could be transformed into, especially when it came to the commercial space downstairs – formerly a bar, which is now home to Lilify. After two years of putting their hearts and souls into the space, Lilify opened its doors in late 2012. Since opening, Lilify has just added another layer of excellence to make the experience that much sweeter. You can now enjoy a cup of Bright Coffee as you wander through the shop finding beautiful treasures. The next time you find yourself down in the Carmel/Monterey area add this treasured gem to your list of places to go. You won’t regret it! Lilify 281 Lighthouse Avenue // Monterey, California Hours: Monday – Saturday 10 – 6 Sunday 9 – 1 Photos by Claire Giffen #lifestyle

After an incredible, inspiring and off the grid trip to Mexico to visit my dad – I came home feel rejuvenated, refreshed and at ease with everything that was waiting for me upon my return. Spending my days unplugged, swinging in a hammock reading, snorkeling with sea lions and enjoying life without any interruptions was delightful. Keeping all of that in mind, I’m slowly hitting the ground running this week but remembering that there needs to be more work/life balance happening around here. Details about the trip will be coming soon! This week there are a handful of fun posts coming your way. So be sure to check back regularly. It’s good to be back friends! Photo by Caitlin Flemming #lifestyle

Spring is upon us and the flower market is currently bursting with tons of incredible flowers. When Natalie and I sat down to brainstorm this month’s arrangement we first started thinking about something with branches but then we decided that keeping it simple was the way to go. We wanted to highlight one of Natalie’s favorite flowers – tulips. She hit the flower market to find six of her favorite varieties so that we could show all of you the different types of tulips you can find. Let me tell you, I didn’t even know there were this many out there and each are stunning in their own way. Luckily Natalie is here to give us a few details about tulips. I’ve been noticing tulips more and more. Are they in season now? Tulips are a true Spring flower. Because of their popularity they are now available year round, but their true season is Springtime. I see the special tulips at the market from February until May. You mentioned two types of Libretto tulips. Where are they from and what makes each so special? One is a local variety from Arcata in Northern California. The other is an import from Holland. I was struck how each had such different coloring, with the one from Holland being much more pink. Sometimes my tulips stand straight up and sometimes they go in every direction. Why is that? Tulips are always reaching for the light which gives them many opportunities to do funny things. If you have tulips in a dark room with no light, they will stand straight up. If you have them in a sunny room, they will be reaching towards the window. The best way to enjoy your tulips is to just let them do their thing and watch them move every day. I have heard a rumor about tulips growing after they cut. Is this true? Yes. While tulips reach for the light, they actually grow. If you have them in an arrangement mixed with other blooms, you will notice that after even just one day, they will stick out further than where they were originally placed. When I use tulips with other flowers, I usually cut them a bit too short to start so they will ease into the ideal placement. Check back next month for another stunning edition of Blooms in Season! Flowers by Natalie Bowen Designs | Photos by Caitlin Flemming #lifestyle

New collections are starting to debut and one in particular that I’m excited to feature is Rebecca Atwoods spring collection. It’s no secret that I’m madly in love with Rebecca’s line – last summer I worked with her on creating custom pillows for our new apartment. Each season Rebecca debuts a new collection that has me wanting to add more pillows to my living room. Soon I’ll be living in a room filled with pillows in blue hues – at least that’s what Eric keeps saying. This season she’s bringing us varying shades of marine on a textured cotton – linen blend. This blue – green hue feels lush and refreshing against soft neutrals. Perfect for a little spring refresh to any home! Rebecca wanted to create a color that was an evolution from the true blue shibori colors she has used the past two seasons. She worked with the ever so talented Emily Johnston to capture these beautiful images. Be sure to check out Rebecca’s entire spring collection filled with two other color combinations – natural and tangerine that are equally stunning. I hope you find Rebecca’s line as inspiring as I do! Photos by Emily Johnston #interiors

Wedding season is officially here! I can’t wait for the impending nuptials that we’re attending this year. There is nothing I love more than seeing two friends surrounded by close friends and family. With that being said, I’m already on the hunt for a couple of outfits because, let’s face it – figuring out what to wear can be a little challenging, at least it is for me. Even if the invitation clearly states the dress code, it can be tricky to find an appropriate dress. That’s why we’ll be bringing you a wedding ensemble at the beginning of each season. I’m hoping that they will get you inspired for the weddings you’ll be attending. For spring I wanted to bring you a soft fresh look that will get you excited for the warmer days that are coming. Blush and nude have been two colors that I love. I hope this spring wedding outfit gets you inspired for any events or weddings you have in the near future! The Basics 1.) Maje Elixir Dress 2.) Trouve Trina Cage Sandal The Layers 3.) Tory Burch Eau de Parfum Rollerball 4.) Tom Ford Holiday 2013 Nail Lacquer 5.) Kate Spade New York ‘Cedar Street- Monday’ Crossbody 6.) Chanel Les 4 Ombres Quadra Eyeshadow 7.) Prada Cat Eye Sunglasses 8.) Marc by Marc Jacobs Logo Disc Stud Earings 9.) Kate Spade New York Skinny Mini Bow Bangle See more of favorites I might be wearing to the spring weddings I’m attending! #style

I’ve been dreaming about traveling to Istanbul for years. From the moment I stepped off of the airplane, I knew it would be a special trip. To begin with, Istanbul is situated between two continents – Europe and Asia. And in so many ways, it was a city that is the gate between East and West. On nearly every hill of the city (and there are a multitude of hills!), there sits a mosque. Five times a day, you hear the melody of the call to prayer. Yet at the same time, you see a modern and conservative population that seems comfortable with the differences between each other. Situated on the beautiful Bosphorus, you have constant views of the water that separates the different parts of the city. Often when I travel, I try to rent an apartment. This was one of the best experiences to date. We stayed in a beautiful three-story townhouse. One of the great things about staying in a residential neighborhood is that you aren’t with tourists the entire time. We were about to go to the local markets to purchase fresh eggs, cheese, olives and fruit for breakfast. By the end of our stay the vendors recognized us and we felt like we were part of a community. I think one of the reasons it has taken this long for me to write about my trip, is that it was such a profound experience. It has been difficult for me to express the effect it had on me. There were beautiful sites I will list below, but overall, it was the spirit of the city that I loved the most. Other activities you should take the time to enjoy: 1. Sultanahmet. This is the area of old Istanbul and the place where the most well known attractions are located. Once the heart of the Ottoman Empire, is the Topkapi Palace. As a designer the tiles in the Harem of the palace were mind-blowingly beautiful. It’s worth purchasing the extra ticket to go into – it’s room after room of endless inspiration. Be sure to take the time for lunch at the restaurant inside of the palace. Close by is another Ottoman beauty, Sultanahmet Camii. Often referred to as the Blue Mosque in English, this mosque is known for its beautiful tiles and lofty domed ceilings. I found the small details most alluring – the marble wash-basins at the entrance had me entranced. Finally, Aya Sofia (the former church of Hagia Sophia) is the legacy of the Byzantine Empire.  Mosaics of incredible splendor covered much of the walls and ceilings. 2. The Grand Bazaar. All of my guidebooks warned of aggressive vendors at the bazaar. I found it to be very tame in comparison to the markets of Morocco.  We found the vendors to be kind (many cups of tea!) and there was a plethora of incredible shops with fabrics from Uzbekistan, hamman bowls, towels, soap, tea pots…anything you can imagine existed at the bazaar.  We were fortunate to have someone come with us to help us navigate some of the better shops. 3. The Spice Bazaar. We definitely made this a priority and came home with spices, teas, and Turkish delight. One of my favorite spices that I’ve been using on everything is Sumac – it’s delicious on eggs, cauliflower, you name it! 4. Cukurcuma. This was one of my favorite neighborhoods. Charm doesn’t begin to describe this lovely area. Known for its gathering of antique shops, hip cafes, and 19th century apartments, I felt I could have been in another world! A few favorites in this neighborhood were A la Turca, a coffee at Holy Coffee and I’m still dreaming about the dinner we had at Munferit. 5. Arasta Bazaar. This is where we found beautiful Turkish towels, rugs, and fabric. It’s a manageable size and on a smaller scale than the Grand Bazaar. 6. Asia. One of my favorite days was spent on the Asian side of the city. There was far more green space, and what seemed like a slower pace of life. We were definitely on a mission to eat at one restaurant tons of friends recommended. After weaving through small market sidewalks we came across it and let me tell you, it was one of our best meals – go to Ciya Sofasi it’s a must! 7. Istanbul Modern. A relatively new museum of modern art, Istanbul Modern sits of the shore of the Bosphorus and has a light airy and very modern feel. Eat at the cafe – it has a remarkable view. 8. Hammam. Going to a hammam was pretty high on my list of things to do while in Istanbul. Multiple friends suggested Kilic Ali Pasa Hamam. If you want to enjoy some true r & r and pampering this is just the thing for you. I did it the morning before we left for Paris, which felt incredible after all of the walking we had done. The renovation they did on this space is visually stunning. 9. Turkish Towels. To say I only bought a few would be a lie. I fell madly in love with all of the beautiful details each towel and hand towel had. From the tassel details, to the patterns, to the colors – it was love at first site. I now have them hanging in my bathroom and each morning they remind me of Istanbul. 10. Shops. While we went into dozens upon dozens of stores, here are a few of my favorites that I’ll definitely be going back to when I return. Sofa Art & Antiques – for beautiful antique treasures you really can’t find anywhere else. Jennifer House – for stunning Turkish towels. Yazzma – for custom pillows. You pick the fabric and size, then they make it within two hours. It’s amazing! Ottoamano – If you’re looking for luxurious scarves this is the place to go. Situated in a cable car in the middle of the Grand Bazaar you are surrounded by thousands of scarves. You’ll leave wanting more than one. Lastly, Tulu Textiles – this was a dream. It’s four floors of what feels like heaven. Elizabeth, the owner, has an incredible eye for design. I’m already planning my next trip because I feel as though I barely made a dent in the what was discovered when I was there. I hope this has inspired you to plan a trip to Istanbul. Photos by Caitlin Flemming #travel

Today, we’re saying goodbye to winter because tomorrow we’ll be stepping into a new season. It’s time to think about putting away the wool and start bringing out your cotton favorites! I’m ready for warmer weather, open toed shoes and light weight scarves. There’s something special I love about spring – maybe it’s all of the beautiful flowers that line the streets, or the fact that I can finally show off my pedicure after months of being hidden inside my boots. Luckily, we’ve been graced with beautiful spring-like weather here in San Francisco the past week and I’ve been able to show off two new staples – the Gayle sandal and exotic infinity scarf with poms. These items will be making a regular appearance this spring from Sole Society. While thinking about my spring wardrobe I love mixing high and low items together. Since Sole Society is constantly adding new styles it has become one of my go-to shops for spicing up my wardrobe for a new season. What do you love most about spring? Is it a fresh new wardrobe? The fact that it’s light out a little longer? Picnics in the park? I’d love to know! Remember, if you need a few new items for warmer temperatures be sure to pop over to Sole Society or scroll through the shopping widget below. This post is brought to you by Sole Society. Visit www.solesociety.com to see more items from their ‘What is Chic’ campaign. Thanks for supporting posts that keep Sacramento Street doors open. Photos by Claire Giffen #style

San Francisco had its short season of spring showers and skipped right to summer. I’ve been digging out my sandals and summer whites. This warm weather has me giddy for the warm days ahead – especially picnics in Golden Gate park or Crissy Field. There is nothing I love more than gathering a group of girlfriends and catching up over delicious snacks while catching some rays. That’s why I wanted to share the my go-to outfit – you can never go wrong with a striped tee and jean shorts. Do you have a warm weather activity you love doing with your girlfriends? The Basics: 1.) Vince Striped Linen T-Shirt 2.) Denim Short in Dark Van Wash The Layers: 3.) Clubmaster 45 mm Sunglasses 4.) Halogen Linen Blend Scarf 5.) Learn the Ropes Link Bracelet 6.) Sam Edelman Sloan Sandal 7.) Learn the Ropes Cord Bracelet 8.) Bobbi Brown Nude Glow Eye Shadow Pallet 9.) Bobbi Brown Blush 10.) Michael Kors Kempton Nylon Tote Bag More picnic day favorites! #style

This year I’ve been fortunate to work on a variety of nurseries. Working with clients to create the perfect nursery has been such a rewarding and fun side of design. With nurseries I’ve been able to play around with color, test out gliders, find out what moms like and dislike, and most importantly have fun with families and help them get excited for their bundle of joy to arrive. Since I’ve worked on nurseries and have had quite a few mommy-to-be’s emailing me with design questions, I wanted to bring all of you the ultimate giveaway. That’s when I called one of my go-to sources for clients – Giggle. When I mentioned my desire to give one reader their dream nursery – I’m talking furniture, a design plan, the whole enchilada, they jumped at the chance to work together on my vision. Let me tell you, they were beyond generous. Giggle is giving away a crib, dresser and glider to one lucky Sacramento Street reader. In addition, Caitlin Flemming Design will work with the winner on designing their dream nursery through her Design in a Box service. 1.) The Gustaf Crib | 2.) The Gustaf Dresser | 3.) The Monte Design Como Glider Entering is easy — simply follow the steps in the widget below and that’s it! You can then opt to submit additional entries. The giveaway runs until 11:00pm PST Friday, March 21st. * Giveaway is limited to readers in the U.S. only. Please do not leave your email or web address in the body of the comment, only in the allotted boxes. Giveaway prize is worth approximately $3,500 USD total value. The winner will be contacted via email once comments close at 8:00 pm PT on Friday, March 21st. Once the winner has responded I will announce the winner at the bottom of this post. This post is brought to you by Giggle + Caitlin Flemming Design. All opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting sponsored posts that keep Sacramento Street doors open. #lifestyle

When we first booked our trip to Istanbul we found out our layover to get there would have to be in Paris. Well, we couldn’t stop in Paris and not stay a few days. With that being said, we decided to extend our trip a few days and go to our favorite spots. As you drive into Paris from the airport I always get this overwhelming feeling of excitement. It’s a combination of many things – the architecture, the fashion, the cafes, the people watching and best of all, the steak frites. We may or may not have had them both nights we were there. You only live once, right? Since this trip was incredibly quick (unlike our usual week we like to spend in Paris) we had a clear mission to hit up all of our favorite shops on Saturday since almost everything is closed on Sundays. It was a long list but with the energy and inspiration of Paris anything is possible. I wanted to share my top ten places to go. 1.) Merci – I’ve been in love with their linen bedding ever since a friend brought a pair of pillowcases back for me years ago. You must walk around this shop and then head to lunch at their restaurant – it’s one of the best lunches I’ve had in a long time. If you aren’t hungry then go sit in their library cafe for a tea. 2.) Mariage Freres – Since I’m a tea person I always love going to Mariage to find a new blend of tea to bring home. They have walls lined with beautiful teas that are divine. 3.) Musee de l’Orangerie – Probably my favorite museum to go to in Paris because it’s small and I love Monet. 4.) Saint Germain – This is the neighborhood we’ve stayed in for the past twelve years and every time we go back the neighborhood feels like home. I love the cafes, boutiques and hotels that line the streets of Saint Germain. 5.) Astier de Villatte – This store is pure heaven. Imagine rooms stacked with your favorite items – Astier is that for me. Although it’s a small shop, they have tons of items that you don’t find coming to the US. I love taking my time looking through each corner of this store. 6.) Le Marais – The Marais is the only neighborhood in Paris that is open on Sundays. Because of this we decided to spend Sunday wandering the streets getting lost in shops and restaurants. It was bustling with people and the neighborhood was filled with gems. 7.) Laduree – The perfect treat to bring home to family and friends. Don’t forget to get a few for yourself! 8.) L’Hotel – This was newly discovered this trip and I’ll definitely be going back. We popped in here after dinner for a drink. It was recommended by a friend. It was a great place to relax, enjoy a glass of wine and it was super mellow. Just watch out for the moving light bulbs on the sconces, they made us think we were on a ship. 9.) Le Relais de l’Entrecote – What can I say about this restaurant? I start craving the sauce they serve with the steak as soon as I land. The entire ambiance of the restaurant, the simplicity of only having to decide what to drink because they only serve one thing makes it such an experience like nothing we have here. I promise, it’s worth the wait in line! 10.) Tour Eiffel – Maybe it’s because I’m young at heart but every trip to Paris I make a trip to see the Eiffel Tower. It only has to be a few minutes but it makes my heart skip a beat when I see it. Remember Meg Ryan in French Kiss so excited to see it? That first time I see it peering through the buildings gives me goose bumps. There are so many fabulous places to go in Paris but what I want you to remember while you are there, is to enjoy walking the streets. It’s the only way you can take in the beauty of the city. Photos by Caitlin Flemming #travel