Friday, December 30, 2011

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words


So, I'll let mine do the talking. 

2011 flew by faster than a blink of an eye. I can't believe how much has transpired. Some days were good, some were bad, but regardless every day was one to be thankful for. I'm looking forward to a fresh start and spending another beautiful year with you all. I hope you spend the last day of 2011 with a smile on your face and with the people you love by your side. Happy 2012!

iPhone buddies find me @pancakestacker. No iPhone? No problem! Find me here :) Also, special thanks to Refinery 29 for featuring my Instagram pic in their holiday favorites yesterday! Super exciting for an Instagram junkie, such as myself! 
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Thursday, December 29, 2011

pancakePROFILES: 10 Questions for Yosh Han of YOSH Olfactory Sense


While circling the table that was home to the magical bourbon ball cake pops at the Industrie Denim Launch Party, I was fortunate enough to meet San Francisco based perfumer, Yosh Han. We bonded over those delicious balls and got to talking about ourselves. Yosh, whose perfumes have been featured in notable publications including Vanity Fair (USA/Italy), Vogue (USA/Italy/Germany/Russia), Glamour, Allure, and Elle (just to name a few), takes pride in using the finest ingredients from all over the world to create special artisanal fragrances and vibrational perfumery. I was so intrigued to find such a creative and successful mind, that I had to ask Yosh for an interview. Luckily for me and you, she gladly obliged.


1. Introduce yourself! Where are you from, what brought you to San Francisco, and what do you do here?
I love experiencing new cultures, so I've moved around a bit. Growing up in LA, I felt I a calling to be near the mountains of Colorado. When I wasn't skiing, I worked in a perfumery. After 4 winters, I moved to Europe for the next 3 years traveling all over using The Netherlands as home base. The next two years, I relaxed on 100 acres in horse country in Northern Virginia. While I was living there, a friend of mine asked me to move to San Francisco to open the Pirate Store in the Mission. How could I resist? On a whim, I decided to make Pirate Perfumes. Soon other artists, writers and boutiques asked me to make their perfumes. One thing led to the next and now I have my own independent business designing perfumes that retail around the world.


2. How did you get into the perfume industry? How did you know that this is what you wanted to do? 
It was by accident really. I walked into a store in Aspen and knew immediately that I wanted to work there. The Chinese character for my name YOSH means 'aroma' so one could say that it was kismet that I became a perfumer.


3. How do you go about creating your perfumes? How long does the process take, and what inspires you when you are creating your scents? 
My perfumes are based on moods and personalities. The newest one, Sombre Negra, means Black Shadow. I felt inspired by our shadow selves - the side that we're supposed to hide. But really, how can we be expected to be happy all the time? 


4.  What is unique about your perfumes? What makes YOSH different and special? 
Each fragrance is attuned energetically and resonates with chakra energies and numerology. I used both natural and technology based materials.






5. What’s your advice on picking the perfect scent for yourself? And do you have a favorite perfume?
In the past, people had one perfume that became their signature scent. But the trend now is to wear different fragrances depending on your mood, season or fashion. My favorite in my collection is Ginger Ciao - it has black coconut, ylang ylang, night blooming jasmine, sandalwood and ginger. It's tropical and sensual.


6. Now that 2011 is coming to a close, what are some goals you would like to achieve for YOSH in 2012?
I hope to expand to the UK, Canada, Australia and Japan.


7. What is your favorite place in San Francisco for: Food? Drinks? Shopping? People Watching? And…any other hidden gems from our city that you would like to share?
My favorite places...
CHOCOLATE:
http://www.recchiuti.com/ -- Love the rose caramel
http://www.tcho.com/ -- The factory tour is amazing - the smell of chocolate is so decadent!
http://www.elbowchocolates.com/ - The caramel rosemary is to die for


TEA: / Coffee - We have coffee snobs / local roasters here
http://samovarlife.com/ - They have a tea called ocean of wisdom, which I love --- custom blended for the Dalai Lama!


RESTOS:

My go-to-hole in the wall:

Food / Art  gallery:

COCKTAILS: 
http://www.alembicbar.com/ - They have one called Gilded Lily with real gold in it. My friend, another perfumer also has a fragrance called the gilded lily. Funny coincidence.

GIVING BACK: - these are my main pet charities
http://826valencia.org/ ---The pirate store!


Oysters:

Great produce (other than whole foods):
I buy all my seafood here. It's the best.

Amazing for bulk - especially herbs, loose teas and natural body care products.

Great charcuterie -- This is one that we filmed...I love the smell of pork here.

Best fro yo & ice cream:

Best cheese:

8. San Francisco has recently turned up the volume in style and fashion. What do you think about San Francisco style and how does it play a part in your life? Do you ever style your outfits based on a perfume you’re wearing that day?  
San Francisco style is really low key. There's pressure to not wear any labels but still look fashionable. This means that we support independent designers but have a refined sense of quality and style. It's quirky but also bold. It's important here to look good without looking like you made a big effort.

I encourage people to choose their perfume first - before they get dressed because when you do that, you acknowledge how you're feeling in the moment. Most people are harried, late, stressed trying to getting to work in the morning. Then they look in the mirror and are horrified by their fashion crises. But if you stop to acknowledge your mood first, then choose the fragrance, it just sets the energy for the day or evening. If you're feeling flirty, you might wear a sensual fragrance. Then you can choose your wardrobe more easily. 



9. This is a silly question I like to ask everyone for my interviews because I feel it’s very telling. If you could be any kitchen appliance, which one would you be and why? 
At the moment, I'm absolutely in love with my Nespresso machine. I only wish George Clooney were here to make my cappuccino for me every morning.

10.  What is your advice for others who are interested in starting their own businesses?
Young people take rejection personally. But I've learned that the answers are often in timing and not personal at all. So when someone says 'No' what they mean is Yes, but later.  But most people, if they hear the word no, take it like it's a death sentence. But for me, I find a way to find the Yes. 

BONUS: And of course, what is your favorite pancake flavor and why?
Butter, real maple syrup and fresh strawberries. 

All images c/o Yosh

Yosh's perfumes can be found at Barneys New York, Lucky Scent, Henri Bendel, many haute perfumeries throughout Europe, and now exclusively at Saks Fifth Avenue in Dubai. I had the pleasure of sampling a few of Yosh's scents and I have to tell you, they are absolutely entrancing. For those who are looking for their own signature scent or the perfect gift for someone special, Yosh also creates custom perfumes and colognes! If you would like to get in contact with Yosh or have any questions, feel free to email me or check out her website here

And as an added bonus, Yosh is offering two vibrational perfumery workshops in the upcoming year.

"In this workshop, we will smell aromatic essences and explore perfume design: composition and editing. We will cover a bit of history and basic technical info on top, middle and base notes. We’ll also talk about fragrance families. Based on intuition and chakra energies, each participant will create their own Aromatic Attunement in a flacon or roll-on bottle."

Saturday, Jan 7th at 1:00 - 4:30 PM and Sunday, Feb 17th at 9:30 AM - 1PM

A very special thank you to Yosh for taking the time to answer all my questions! Stay tuned for more interviews to come next year! Don't forget to enter my giveaway with JewelMint & StyleMint for your chance to win a piece of your own choosing!
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Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Wisdom Wednesday

"Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each new year find you a better man." --Benjamin Franklin

"The New Year's Dash," Look book, LF Stores

We've reached the last Wisdom Wednesday of 2011, so I thought it would be appropriate to leave you with a few things to keep in mind for the new year that's ahead of us all. Never stop the fight with yourself to be the best that you can be in all that you do and all that you are. Be kind to all that you meet. A genuine smile and a warm heart will get your farther than you know. Strive to be a better person tomorrow, than you were yesterday and today. But, don't forget to live in the moment. It's good to dream about the future and to learn from your yesterdays, but make each and every day count. Do all that you want to do now. The new year might be right around the corner, but it's never too late to start today.

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Thursday, December 22, 2011

Holiday Wish List

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...


1. Rebecca Minkoff 'MAC' Clutch 2. Abercrombie & Fitch 'South Notch' Men's (yes, men's) Flannel Shirt in Green Check 3. J Brand Skinnies in Shiny Boa & Black Patent 4.  Steven by Steve Madden 'Madee' Flat in Leopard, Multi Sequin, and Tan Suede 

I'm going to see the Nutcracker tonight with the mister and as I actively avoid getting ready (I have to be out the door by 4), I figured I'd at least be somewhat productive and create a set with a few items that have been lingering in my mind. I've been lusting after the Steve Madden loafers in leopard for quite some time now and just recently discovered that he has designed a few more that are to my liking. I'm mad for plaid and especially love the warmth of flannel. I walked into Abercrombie the other day after years of avoiding the store. As I passed by the men's flannel section, I fell in l-o-v-e. Men's flannel is way better than women's flannel. That is a fact. I have three men's flannel shirts and I don't plan to stop until I get every plaid print I desire. The Minkoff clutch is a must for every lady. This is going on my Christmas, birthday, half-birthday, Valentine's ... whatever-holiday-is-coming-next wish list. Won't stop putting it on there until that baby is hanging off my shoulder. The skinnies are really last on my list. I'm not a big pants person. Blame it on my child-bearing hips or my junk in the trunk, whatever the reason, I care not for pants, as they do nothing to flatter my figure. Find me a pair that can, and I'll love you forever. Having said all that about my aversion to pants, the J Brand skinnies are precious. If I could, I'd totally wear these. Okay, that is all. I should really hop in the shower and get pretty for dinner and whatnot. Don't forget to enter my holiday giveaway down below! Toodles.
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Wednesday, December 21, 2011

pancakePRIZES: JewelMint & StyleMint



If you're a last minute shopper and you're looking for something that will be sure to bring some holiday cheer, look no further than JewelMint or StyleMint! As you know, I'm a big supporter of the BeachMint brands, and as someone who loves their products, I can safely say I'd be happy to receive a multitude of things from lines. If you're unsure of just what to pick for that special someone on your holiday list, try a JewelMint or StyleMint gift card! Not only are your gift cards instantly emailed to you, but the more you buy, the more you get! Both Jewel and StyleMint are offering special goodies for purchasers of their gift cards now through Saturday, the 24th.

But wait there's more! I've teamed up with the BeachMint crew to offer something special for you too! If you want a special somethin' somethin' all you need to do is (1) Comment on this post with your contact info

Extra entries - Leave a SEPARATE comment for each additional entry 


(2) Become a follower of pancakeSTACKER on Google Friend Connect and/or Bloglovin'
(3) Like pancakeSTACKER on Facebook
(4) Follow pancakeSTACKER on Twitter
(5) Tweet me! "I entered @pancakeSTACKER's @JewelMint & @StyleMint Holiday giveaway. You should too!"
(6) Follow pancakeSTACKER on Instagram! Be sure to leave your Instagram handle, if you do!
(7) Follow @JewelMint on Twitter
(8) Follow @StyleMint on Twitter
(9) Like JewelMint on Facebook
(10) Like StyleMint on Facbeook

THE WINNER OF THIS GIVEAWAY GETS TO PICK ONE PIECE OF HIS/HER CHOICE! THAT'S RIGHT...ANYTHING YOUR HEART DESIRES, SO GET THOSE ENTRIES IN!  10 CHANCES TO WIN! 


This giveaway is open to all readers. Contest ends Saturday, December 31, 2011 at 11:59PM. 

Easy peasy! Happy entering! 
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Wisdom Wednesday

"You've got to get up every morning with determination if you're going to go to bed with satisfaction." -- George Lorimer

Dakota & Elle Fanning by Mario Sorrenti for W Magazine, Dec 2011

We say it everyday, and if we're not saying it, we're thinking it. It's at the very core of what we all know. That being, we must work hard if we are to see any sort of reward. No action leads to no result. Of course, even though we all know this, what differentiates those who do good from those who do great is the determination factor. How determined are you to achieve greatness? Do you get your hands dirty with the soil of hard work? It is not enough to dream it. You must do it. Do whatever it takes. Do it everyday. Do it until you get to where you want to be. And when you get to where you want to be, keep pushing. You can do more. You'll fall many times, but don't stop. It might be that last time you stand up that makes all the difference. 
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Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Wisdom Wednesday

"We are shaped by our thoughts; we become what we think. When the mind is pure, joy follows like a shadow that never leaves." -- Buddha
Candice Swanepoel and Ian Somerhalder by Mario Testino for Allure Magazine, September 2011

I usually like to add some commentary for my Wisdom Wednesdays, but something about this quote is just so simple and perfect, I don't want to taint it. It says everything you need to know. Don't let your thoughts become polluted with the negativity of others. Keep it pure, and the joy will follow. Simple as that.
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Thursday, December 1, 2011

pancakeLEFTOVERS: November..and October and September too..

It’s been a while since I’ve truly dedicated the time and care that I once had for my blog. And truth be told, it breaks my heart that something so dear to me has taken a backseat to everything else going on in my life. I miss spending hours at a time creating posts, going through and responding to touching comments, and discovering other blogs that fill me with the same inspiration and passion I hope my blog provides for others.  And now, it’s December (can you even believe that?). Amazing how fast time has flown isn’t it? Now that a new month (and practically a new year) is upon us, I find it to be the perfect time to start over again…to go back to something that has provided me with unconditional joy and creativity. My blog started as a sort of fun buddy (like that new friend who leaves you starry-eyed with smiles) and today, while it definitely is still that fun friend, it’s more than that. It’s become that sort of best friend type (the one you can always pick up the phone and talk to even if it’s been a while). So, this means I'll finally be getting back to regular outfit and food posts. But, I also have some new things cookin' and can't wait to share those with you too. For now, here are a few snaps from the last month or so... please excuse the fact that 90% of these pictures are of food. I eat a lot. I've taken a new liking (read: obsession) to Instagram and thought I'd share the view from my iPhone for all my non-Instagrammers out there. For the rest of you, follow me @pancakestacker and get ready for some iPhone magic.

From left to right, top to bottom: A little cocktail from EOS (do try their calamari appetizer - amazing!); a cute card I picked up on Fillmore Street (recently named one of the 10 best streets to shop on in America); homemade pho with some extra siracha; leftovers from Thanksgiving; Saturday afternoon drinks with my mister <3; pumpkin macarons from Chantal Guillon on Hayes; a little wall art from Nest; Sunday brunch with pumpkin pancakes (made by yours truly, of course); San Francisco cityscape (love this city more and more each day).
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Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Wild Thing, You Make My Heart Sing

Our first picture of the night! (picture c/o PoshMark)
Last week, I had the pleasure of co-hosting a PoshParty with the fabulous team at PoshMark and Kristen of Fashion Fate. Before I get into the nitty gritty of how purrfect  (see what I did there?) our "Wild Things" themed party was, let me cover a few basics. For those of you who aren't sure of what PoshMark is, get ready because your whole shopping and iPhone experience is about to change.

PoshMark is a free iPhone application that connects fashion and shopping lovers from all over with just the click of a button. Essentially, it's a shopping application that allows you to peruse through listings from fellow fashionistas and buy what you fancy. Even better, you can list your own items that haven't been getting as much TLC and watch it go to a new home that will give it some extra lovin' (while making some easy peasy cash monies of your own). Now that's a win-win if I do say so myself. So if you are reading this and you still don't have this app on your phone, pause, download it, and get ready for some addicting fun.

Left to right: Me, LyAnn, Tracy, Carlina, and Kristen. (picture c/o PoshMark)
Every week, PoshMark has a few PoshParties, which are virtual online parties that you can attend with the app, where you can browse, buy, and list items that correspond with the party's theme for that day. I was lucky enough to co-host an animal themed PoshParty and had so much fun with all the listings. We laughed, devoured delicious Japanese food, listened to some Britney, Justin, and other 90's jams, drank some wine, and let our inner animals out to play. Overall, it was an amazing experience to be apart of. Big, big thanks to Carlina, LyAnn, Tracy, Manish, and the rest of the PoshMark team for allowing me to join in on the fun!

My seriously soft scarf and first PoshMark sale!
Scrumptious food & wine 
Just PoshMarkin' around 
Me and my beautiful co-host, SweeetKristen, haha! (picture c/o PoshMark)

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Monday, November 21, 2011

Shoes, Shoes, Shoes


I don't know about you, but I'm pretty pumped for this Friday's launch of ShoeMint. If you've been living under a rock and haven't heard yet, ShoeMint is a new shoe collection designed by Rachel Bilson and celebrity stylist Nicole Chavez, in collaboration with Steve Madden. I can only image how beautifully stylish and comfortable all of these shoes will be. And if this picture of Rachel is any indication of what's to come, I think it's safe to say our bank accounts are in bad shape. Sign up now for your chance to win some free shoes for an entire YEAR. That's right - a brand new pair for your feet every month for 12 months. But you have to hurry! The contest ends this Wednesday, November 23.
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Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Wisdom Wednesday

“Be daring, be different, be impractical, be anything that will assert integrity of purpose and imaginative vision against the play-it-safers, the creatures of the commonplace, the slaves of the ordinary.” -- Sir Cecil Beaton
"We're All Mad Here," Winter 2011 Look book, Threadsence 

Every now and then, I am reminded never to settle for less than I deserve. These reminders come at me in little ways, yet, regardless of how little they may be, they are still there. So, I listen. I am reminded that every single day is full of possibility and that I am to bring some sort of purpose, some meaning to it. Just the other day, I was having a relaxing lunch with a coworker, and before heading back to the grind we decided to crack open our fortunes. We both smiled as we read words that seemed to be made just for us. Mine read, "You will take a chance in the near future, and win." I was thrilled that my fortune was as sweet as the cookie it came in. I sat there thinking about all the opportunities that were just waiting for me to reach out and grab them. Then, I sat some more and asked myself why I wasn't out in the world grabbing them with both hands. I went home that night and seriously contemplated some of my dreams, goals, plans... you name it. It was then that I stumbled upon this quote, and realized once again, that settling is not an option. Playing it safe is not an option. So, I dare to dream. I dare to be different. I dare to make choices that some would call "impractical." I'm betting on myself, because like my fortune says, I know I'm bound to win. So, that's my wisdom for this Wednesday. Hope I've inspired you to take a chance on yourself and win big. 
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