SANAH TULUM

September 7, 2021

Mexico always has a way of sparking a bit of romance, and our stay at the Sanah Tulum was no exception - The property is tucked away from the hustle + bustle of town and captures the tranquility of the jungle

Our own private casita was the perfect sanctuary to escape the tropical sun and the occasional surprise rain storm

The Sanah Tulum was the perfect spot for us to disconnect + reconnect, the property is beautiful and the team super attentive

We loved our time in Mexico and we cant wait to visit again soon

Portraits by Perry Skegness

TODOS SANTOS BAR

The **BEST COCKTAILS** in Tulum are at **Todos Santos Bar**
You won’t find a menu at this bar, but you’ll find highly skilled bartenders who will create something unique + delicious just for you

ANTOJITOS LA CHIAPANECA

The **BEST TACOS** in Tulum are at **Antojitos La Chiapaneca** - fast friendly service and great tasting food

HOLISTIKA

The **BEST MASSAGES** in Tulum are at **Holistika**
We had a couples massage and it was one of the best we have ever experienced - The property is beautiful and the cafe has awesome juices + smoothies

MEZZETTA : BLOODY MARIA COCKTAIL

May 24, 2020

Bloody Maria With Jalapeño-Infused Tequila

One of my favorite drinks is the Bloody Maria — the cousin of the Bloody Mary - instead of the traditional vodka, it's made with tequila. The base is the same - so use your favorite bloody mary mix or make some from scratch. To spice things up I made these with jalapeño-infused tequila.

Mezzetta / Bloody Maria Cocktail / Damien Merino

The Jalapeño-Infused Tequila

To make the jalapeno-infused tequila, you'll need some blanco tequila, Mezzetta Deli-Sliced Jalapeño Peppers, and an airtight jar. I used a 32-ounce mason jar - filled it with a quarter of the jalapeños and some of the juice, then filled up the jar with the tequila. Let the jar sit on the counter for at least 24hrs - strain out the jalapeños, and you are ready to go. Bonus - you now have some drunk jalapeño’s to snack on, you’re welcome.

It’s All About The Garnishes

One of the best things about a Bloody Maria is the toppings. I love to load up a cocktail skewer with some of my favorites - olives, peperoncinis, bacon, cheese, and cherry tomatoes.

Mezzetta has you covered with all the best cocktail accouterments - they make it easy to take a simple cocktail to the next level.

This cocktail has been sponsored by MEZZETTA

BE MERRY + BRIGHT

December 22, 2019

BE MERRY + BRIGHT

WISHING EVERYONE A YEAR FULL OF COLOR AND LIGHT

WITH LOVE

Damien, Jimmy + Joey

This year for our family holiday photo we wanted to celebrate color, and we wanted to work with artists we love and admire

Getting to create with our community is one of the joys of living in the Bay Area and we were privileged to work with photographer Anna-Alexia Basile and artist George McCalman

Photography by / ANNA-ALEXIA BASILE

Sketch by / GEORGE MCCALMAN

THE CROW'S NEST / MONTE RIO

November 17, 2019

Sometimes you get to experience a place and you immediately connect with it,

The Crow’s Nest in Monte Rio, CA is one of those magical places.

Nestled in the redwood trees - this cabin is cozy and comfortable - peaceful and secluded - with thoughtful design details everywhere

Not to mention the hot tub!

Jimmy and I (+ Joey) were lucky enough to be invited to spend the weekend at The Crow’s Nest by Holly - who created this special place

This is the view from bed - pretty breathtaking

The perfect spot for a soak - at night you can look up through the canopy and see the stars - such a relaxing + magical experience

Jimmy Brower / The Crow's Nest / Monte Rio

Rabble Wine / The Crow's Nest / Monte Rio

Home cooked dinner on the deck, surrounded by redwood trees

Our bottle of Rabble Wine Sauvignon Blanc paired perfectly with our meal

The Crow’s Nest has everything you need to whip up some comfort food

The Crow’s Nest is the perfect spot for your next forest getaway - Jimmy and I cant wait to get back

Thank you TWO RIVERS RETREATS for hosting us!

Damien is wearing: Hat by HELEN KAMINSKI , Shirt by ASOS, Jeans by LEVI’S, Boots by FRYE
Jimmy is wearing: Hat by HAMPUI HATS , Shirt + Jeans by LEVI’S , Chore Coat + Boots by WORK WEAR VINTAGE

Wine provided by RABBLE WINE

FALL COCKTAIL : THE BLACK MOON

October 30, 2019

THE BLACK MOON

For those who enjoy magic moods and spirits - this cocktail is for you. As we enter the Fall season the cycles of the moon become more dramatic and beautiful - this drink celebrates the dark side of the moon.

Here’s What You’ll Need to Make It:

(Makes 2 8oz Cocktails)

4oz Lavender Infused Vodka

8oz Lemon Italian Soda

4 Tablespoons of Blackberry Seriously Simple Syrup

2 Teaspoons of Activated Charcoal

Soda Water

Blackberries

Sprigs of Lavender

Add Lavender Infused Vodka, Blackberry Seriously Simple Syrup, and Activated Charcoal to a cocktail shaker - shake to mix. Add ice to glass and add Lemon Italian Soda - then pour vodka mixture into glass. Top off with a splash Soda Water and garnish with Blackberries and a Sprig of Lavender

Lavender Infused Vodka

Vodka is perfect for infusing - its a blank pallet. I love lavender and it’s a great pairing for this cocktail.

Here’s What You’ll Need to Make It:

1 Bottle of Your Favorite (non flavored) Vodka

3 Sprigs of Food Grade Lavender

1 Airtight Bottle or Large Jar

Rinse lavender and place in airtight bottle or large jar. Pour vodka over lavender and then seal container. Shake the container a few times and then store in a cool dark place for 3 -5 days. When ready to use strain and enjoy.

If you want to make this tonight and dont have 3 days, you can use food grade lavender essential oil , 2 -3 drops per cocktail

Blackberry Seriously Simple Syrup

Making the blackberry syrup couldn’t be easier, and you can apply the technique to other fruit.

Here’s What You’ll Need to Make It:

3 Cups Fresh Blackberries

1 Cup Granulated Sugar

2 Tablespoons of Lemon Juice

1 Cup of Water

Add all ingredients to a medium sauce pan over medium heat. Bring to a boil for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Strain out seeds and pulp, and you’re done!

Check out my FLY INTO THE MOON playlist on SPOTIFY

FLY INTO THE MOON / COCKTAIL PARTY PLAYLIST

ARRIVE HOTEL / PALM SPRINGS

September 2, 2019

Chasing the last days of Summer in Palm Springs

I checked into the ARRIVE Hotel for a few days of R+R and some much needed pool time

The property is Instagram worthy and there are thoughtful design details everywhere - The staff is super friendly and eager to make sure you have a great visit

WEXLER’S DELI serves up tasty specialty cocktails (try the All American Snow Cone) and a menu of fan favorites (the Pastrami Burger is killer!)

The pool at ARRIVE is perfect for hanging all day - you can grab cocktails and food poolside - and reserve a cabaña for you and your friends (or just you!)

I booked a Studio + Patio room - it was super spacious and came with my own outdoor space

I loved the styling of the room and the shower was huge

Bonus: When you book a Studio + Patio room you get included late check out and a reserved poolside lounge chair

Thanks to ARRIVE for hosting me, I can’t wait to book my next trip

What I’m Wearing: Shirt by URBAN OUTFITTERS, Sunglasses by SUNSKI, Shoes MOHINDERS

My photos by ISABEL MACIAS

HIGHWIRE 4TRACK ICED TEA

August 10, 2019

My friends over at HIGHWIRE COFFEE ROASTERS sent over some goodies straight from the roastery, and some awesome loose leaf 4TRACK TEA

HIGHWIRE is a local (Oakland, CA) roaster that believes coffee can be a force for good - they continue to fight for human rights and have been an outspoken critic of the injustices at the US/Mexico border - dive into their blog to learn more about their activism

HIGHWIRE COFFEE ROASTERS / 4TRACK TEA / ICED TEA

It’s been a hot summer so far and nothing quenches that thirst like a good iced tea

Luckily for me, they included a (thoughtfully handwritten) recipe for 4TRACK DREAM BABY DREAM Iced Tea

“Makes 4 Servings / Ingredients

1/4 cup 4TRACK Dream Baby Dream Tea

2 cups of water

16 oz kettle

strainer

pitcher

ice

Measure 1/4 cup of tea into pot - Bring 2 cups of water to boil, pour over tea, stir and cover - Steep for 4 minutes - Strain this concentrate over 2 cups ice water in pitcher and stir - Ice will melt as it cools the tea down, bringing the iced tea to its correct strength - Sweeten to taste, serve over ice and enjoy!”

I like to sweeten iced tea with local raw honey, and garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary and slice of lemon

HOTEL SAN CRISTÓBAL / TODOS SANTOS

July 14, 2019

We spent 4th of July weekend in Todos Santos on the Baja coast and stayed at one of the most beautiful spots - Hotel San Cristóbal

“Named in honor of Saint Christopher, patron of travelers, surfers, sailors and protector during long journeys, Hotel San Cristóbal sits on the beach on the southwestern edge of the Baja peninsula in Todos Santos, Mexico.”

The on site restaurant Benno is delicious and serves up Mexican and Mediterranean dishes made with the freshest local ingredients, crafted cocktails and some of the friendliest service!

Hotel San Cristóbal has the coolest library lounge, and retail shop The Tienda that sells West Perro desert sun hats

The hotel is right on the beach - perfect for morning walks and tropical sunsets — or watching the local fisherman launch their panga boats and bring in their daily catch

We can’t wait to get back to Todos Santos and Hotel San Cristóbal

Already missing tacos and margaritas by the pool!

Who’s coming with us?

Photos by ROMINA VARGAS / CELESTUS STUDIO

Jimmy is wearing a t-shirt by Jungmaven and shorts by Alex Crane, hat by West Perro, and sunglasses by Boca

Damien is wearing a vintage t-shirt and shorts by Old Navy, hat by West Perro , sandals by Birkenstock , and sunglasses by Boca

SUMMER COCKTAIL : WATERMELON MARGARITA

May 29, 2019

Nothing says summer like a fresh fruit margarita

It’s watermelon season and they are delicious right now - the perfect fruit for a summer cocktail

While we were in Palm Springs I mixed up some Watermelon Margaritas poolside

Here is what you will need to make 4 drinks :

Blender
5 cups chopped watermelon
1 cup chopped pineapple
1/3 cup of lime juice
1 cup of Altos Tequila Plata (less or more)
2 cups of ice
Helados Mexico popsicle for garnish
Frozen lemon slice for garnish

Blend all ingredients until smooth

Pour into glasses (salt rims if your into it) - add frozen lemon slice and popsicle for garnish

Use local fresh fruit - this recipe is easy to adapt to any summer fruit

Also - tastes great without the tequila

Cheers!

TULUM

May 2, 2019

We just got back from a quick trip to Tulum and it was a well needed dose of sunshine and adventure.

The trip was to celebrate the birthday of our friend ALEXIS and we had an awesome time exploring and beaching it.

We skipped the hotel and booked really cool container box casitas. With our group booking three of them, it felt like we had the place to ourselves - definitely check out the PAL MAR STAY

My guy JIMMY in his neutral habitat

Beach time is the best time - especially with these ladies

And of course ALEXIS + KELLY + JESS are in their WEST PERRO Sun Hats

We had to check out IK LAB at AZULIK - this beautiful space is a gallery for international artists, but on its own, is an exceptional work of art

This incredible installation piece by DANIEL POPPER was massive and so stunning - lucky to have been able to see it in person

A great trip to celebrate a great friend

Love these ladies so much

EARTH DAY / LOVE HER + PROTECT HER

April 22, 2019

We love getting outdoors and we are thankful for the energy and clarity that time spent with mother nature gives us

“The more we connect with our wild lands - the more we want to protect it”

Here’s a few pics from our hike to Cascade Falls in Fairfax, CA

Theres no denying we all need to do our part when it comes to protecting and restoring our precious planet Earth

Here a few small things you can do to make Earth Day everyday

Turn off the faucet when you brush your teeth - you can save an average of 2 gallons each time you brush by turning off the water
Go paperless - no need to shred bills, just go paperless and save trees
Plant bee friendly plants and flowers - bees need our help, if you have some outdoor space plant a bee garden
Don’t forget your reusable bag - I love our BAGGU totes
Volunteer - get out there and do something! Surfrider Foundation is a great place to start - but find something you support and get your hands dirty

NEON MUSEUM / LAS VEGAS

April 14, 2019

On our last trip to Las Vegas we checked out the Neon Museum - and it did not disappoint!

Our tour guide Jerry was full of sin city facts and knew the history of all the neon installations

It was amazing to see these pieces of pop art up close and personal

SIGIL / MAGNUM OPUS

April 7, 2019

Our friend PATRICK KELLY is modern day alchemist and his line of gender-neutral fragrances SIGIL pays beautiful homage to ancient technique while embracing contemporary edge

The scents are mystical and have connected intent in their formulation - and are all 100% natural

MAGNUM OPUS was my opportunity to experience each one of the new fragrances —- to say choosing one was hard would be an understatement

But the one that connected with me the most was PRIMA MATERIA

“In ancient times, prima materia referred to the formless root of all matter—a blend of stars and soil from which all things emerge, and an essential component in the alchemy of turning base materials into gold. Uniting the earthly and the heavenly, Prima Materia is a scent rooted in soot yet elevated by sparkling notes of fresh citrus. The creamy sweetness of neroli and the cleansing power of white sage embody celestial matter, while oakmoss and woody vetiver signify the spirit of the soil. As it melts into the skin, the alchemy of the scent begins—revealing a golden, resinous heart of pure amber.”

The best part about wearing this scent is noticing the subtle changes as the day progresses - like a fragrance journey

It’s grounding and fresh, and it’s special - and has become part of my daily ritual

COSTA RICA

January 1, 2019

Getting to spend time with people we love over the holidays is what it’s all about.

This year we took off to Costa Rica with some of our friends

Here are some moments from our trip

We stayed in a Mediterranean style villa in Tamarindo - right across the street from the beach

A short walk through the jungle and we get to our own private beach

One of of favorite places to eat is Pico Bistro - try the chia breakfast bowl and the passion fruit iced tea - Augustine our waiter was the best!

Christmas morning we had surfing lessons at Playa Grande with a World Surf League instructor - a must when in Costa Rica!

We took a hike through the cloud forest in Monteverde - the views at the top are incredible and the forest is lush with well maintained trails

Walking to the beach to watch the sunset became tradition

Pura Vida! Thanks for the adventure Costa Rica

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

December 10, 2018

The rolling golden hills of the Briones Regional Park made the perfect backdrop for this years holiday family photo.

“We hope you and yours have a happy and joyous holiday season!”

— Damien, Jimmy + Joey

Follow Jimmy + Follow Joey

Photos by Sergio Aguayo

LOVERS LANE

November 28, 2018

Lovers Lane trail is the oldest foot path in the Presidio - used by 18th century Spanish soldiers and missionaries - Today it’s home to a long standing art installation by Andy Goldsworthy - “Wood Line”

portraits by KEV&EVE PHOTOGRAPHY

outfit by OLD NAVY

MEXICO CITY

November 9, 2018

Sometimes work sends me to awesome places - and this week I was in Mexico City.

Ciudad de México is the largest metropolitan area in the Western Hemisphere - and is rich with history and culture —- and some of the friendliest people.

On some of my free time I was able to explore the Centro Histórico (the historic center of Mexico City)

The center piece to the historic district is the Palacio de Bellas Artes

Torre Latinoamericana is the 7th tallest building in Mexico City

A few blocks from the Palacio de Bellas Artes is Barrio Chino

Stumbled upon the Paseo de Condesa Book Market

The most beautiful post office I have ever seen is the Palacio de Correos de México

Casa de los Azulejos or "House of Tiles" is an 18th-century palace in Mexico City

Adios! Until next time Mexico

Portraits by Elisa De León

FALL COCKTAIL : SPIKED APPLE CIDER

October 30, 2018

Jimmy and I just got back from CIRCLE AND X where we mixed up one of our favorite fall cocktails / Spiked Apple Cider.

HERES WHAT YOU NEED

Bourbon Whiskey (we used Jack Daniels)

Spiced Apple Cider

Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice

Ginger Beer (we used Goslings)

Apples

Cinnamon Sticks

Using fresh ingredients in this simple drink makes all the difference - look for a local spiced apple cider and use fresh squeezed lemon juice when you can

For each drink, add 5 oz of spiced apple cider, 1.5 oz of bourbon whiskey, 1/4 oz of fresh squeezed lemon juice, to a cocktail shaker and pour over ice - top off with ginger beer and garnish with sliced apple and cinnamon stick

GARNISH WITH APPLE SLICE + CINNAMON STICK

FORT POINT + CRISSY FIELD

October 22, 2018

The views from Fort Point are quintessential San Francisco - the Golden Gate Bridge in all its glory. The roads around Crissy Field are perfect for a bike ride - be sure to stop by the historic Warming Hut for a coffee and snack.