Marc Jacobs & Soul Train

Marc by Marc Jacobs

Creative Growth Oakland

Soul Train Clutch by Creative Growth for Jacobs by Marc Jacobs is FANTASTIC!

Designed by Creative Growth, an Oakland, California art center for adults with disabilities.

100% of the proceeds go towards the art center and its talented group of artists!

Mama loaded up on these great little gifts, wallets, purses, clutches, you name it - handy little bag!

Equality

Keep fighting the fight!

Beretta

Gourmet Pizza's seem to be the thing of late.
I am busy tasting them all!!

Beretta replaces the old Last Supper Club in the Mission district - I have to admit that when I realized the Last Supper Club was gone I was a bit surprised. Out with the old in with the new I guess.

We saddled right up to the bar and had a festive Hemingway cocktail, a mixture white rum, lime, cane syrup, maraschino, grapefruit. . .a bit on the sweet side but refreshing.

We shared a Margarita Pizza and a side of Meatballs. It was so good we took an extra pizza home!

Mama sure loves her pie.

http://www.berettasf.com/
1199 Valencia St
San Francisco, C.A. 94110
(415) 695-1199

PRPS

These styles are found currently on Shopbop.com

Mama is loving these jeans. Some different styles. They fit very nicely. The boyfriend jean is so fun to wear, casual and comfortable but you can totally make a statement with the right shoes.

PRPS jeans are manufactured in Japan. The denim is organically grown in Africa.

The brand motto is "Bruised, never broken".

Air Repair Kit

Pick yours up today! It's amazing.

Denise @ Visage Studio
The American Industrial Center Building
2325 3rd Street (@20th)
Suite #411
San Francisco, CA 94107

http://visagestudio.com/

More Louboutin

Seriously, I am in a shoe kind of mood. I saw these on Rihanna and I can't get them outta my head.

Mama needs some skins!

Louboutin

Are you kidding me with these new boots!!????
Mama is drooling. . . .

Available at Neiman's for a small fortune.

Beyonce in Las Vegas

Get your Package today!!

Theater only holds 1500 - 4 nites only.

http://www.encorelasvegas.com/beyonce/

Vanessa Bruno

This blouse I am in love with. I was deceived thinking it was silk but it is actually a raw cotton/linen blend. It is fantastic on.

Can't wait to wear it to. . . . hmmm BET Awards?

Erykah Badu @ Warfield SF

I have been waiting for a while to see Erykah. She was in Oakland a few months back - unfortunately I missed the show. Needless to say I was amped up for this nite.

I ventured first to SupperClub http://www.supperclub.com/, where my girl Eva works. If you have never been, it’s definitely a fun nite out! DJ B Smiley burned me a CD while I waited, so sweet. The Goddess Alchemy Project, HOT! They are Oakland girls. Check it: http://www.goddessalchemyproject.com/. It’s currently in my car and I have had it on nonstop!

Now – let’s focus on the Queen.
The crowd was very eclectic, I liked it. Ladies dressing up and fellows flowing their style. SF seriously needs to do a better job of what GOING OUT means, very happy to see the mix and the style.

We waited about an hour for the show to start (and we were about 45mins late). So Ms. Badu came on about 1.5 – 2hrs late. . . of course she did! I wouldn’t expect anything less.

When the band started playing they rocked out a soulful intro, only to send it all the way over to the other side with Lil Wayne’s “A Milli”. The crowd was pumped.
Out she came – The Queen - draped in a purple and gold robe, a gold head piece and some insane shades, I cant even describe it – she was so regal, so shiny the camera couldn’t even get a picture of her – just her glow.

She performed so many of her songs, I cant even begin to list them all. And in typical Erykah style she linked and mixed in On & On and the Ode to Hip Hop, Love of my Life, through out the set.

She was channeling a Josephine Baker’s style and presence through out most of the show, with head pieces and flowy dress. She twirled like a ballerina, quite beautiful and simple. She performed not only her own music but she RAPPED! She did Whodini’s “Friends”, and an Ice Cube rap. The crowd was singing along and loving her. She is so diverse in her music abilities and her delivery – you can literally just stare at her for hours. She is far more amazing live than you can imagine, I have seen her 4x now – I hope for many, many more!

She came out for her encore and she performed Green Eyes – one of my all time favorites. “My eyes are green Cause I eat a lot of vegetables, It don't have nothing to do with your new friend”. She rapped Nat Dogg’s “It Ain’t No Fun” totally insane! And she of course closed with Bag Lady:

Bag lady you gonna hurt your back
Dragging all them bags like that
I guess nobody ever told you
All you must hold on to - Is you, is you, is you

Girl I know sometimes it's hard
And we can't let go Oh when - someone hurts you oh so bad inside

Next stop on my tour. . . BEYONCE! VEGAS BABY!

Ben Harper & The Relentless 7

Let me first preface this with I love Ben Harper – like die hard, obsessed, will listen to him over and over and over, own ALL his music kind of love. He truly can do no wrong.

Side note: If you have never been to the Fillmore theatre in SF, it is such a great old venue. It has been the hub for the music scene in SF: Led Zeppelin, The Grateful Dead, The Who, Cream, Jimi Hendrix Experience, Pink Floyd, The Doors, Creedence Clearwater Revival – just to name a few. It is old and dirty and loud, quite fantastic really.

I knew from the CD that the band, Relentless 7, is a harder rock sound. I was impressed as they came out on stage by their youth – Ben has been in this game for over 15years.
I watched as the crowd greeted him with a very loud and very long applause, he was so moved by the welcome – I wanted to shout WELCOME HOME BEN! But I didn’t.

Never Trust a Woman Who Loves the blues – could be one of the hottest songs. It has what sounds to be the bass line from the Rolling Stones, Miss you. . . loves it. The guitarist Jason really funked it up with an ending that made me feel like Prince could have been on the stage – I know that is a big comparison but it took me there. (i believe Prince is one of the greatest guitarist ever)
The live version of Fly One Time, made me feel like I was back in the 70s. From the sound of the jam to the lyrics. . .sometimes I think I was meant to be alive back then.
They rocked this song and Ben wailed it out vocally – the electric guitar and his slide guitar. It was heaven in the room.

Keep It Together (So I Can Fall Apart) um the title speaks pretty loud. . . he let out a tribal like yodel during this song – there really are no words!
He went on to play most of the new album. I take a break here to just tell you – if you have never seen Ben Harper live. . . you Must!

The cover of David Bowie’s Under Pressure was seriously ridiculous. He played one of my favorite songs ever - Another Lonely Day – I sang along, sorry to everyone around me but I had to let it out. ‘Cuz’ I’ve been with witches and I have been with a queen’ what is better than that line?

A DOUBLE ENCORE! The crowd literally ate him up. And oddly enough, I think he would have played all nite. This man is full of spirit and passion - he truly loves what he does.
He closed with Faithfully Remain. . .

I learned to say goodbye
to say goodbye to young.
I learned to duck from
words
like bullets from a gun.
How long can you pray?
How long can
you pray
and still not see a change?
I faithfully remain. I faithfully
remain.

Visage!!

Mama has found the ultimate spot for all your facial needs.
Denise at Visage is absolutely amazing. My skin has never looked and felt as radiant as it does today.

Denise has now created her own line of products: Air Repair Kit.
I took this to NY and it was the perfect set of essentials. It seriously rejuvenated my skin.

Visage Studios is a must!

Visage Studio
The American Industrial Center Building
2325 3rd Street (@20th)
Suite #411
San Francisco, CA 94107

http://visagestudio.com/

Tweet Tweet

Catch Mama - I am a Twitter BUG!

@CETERGRAYLOR

New Year, New President

Mama took plenty of time off and now it is time to get back in this game.

I want to start by acknowledging history. . . President Barack H. Obama.
What a defining moment in our country. I am prouder now than I have ever been.
There is so much work to be done, I know it wont be easy.
Here is to you President Obama. . . the People's President!

FAAALAHHLAHHHLAHH LALA LAA LAA

Mama is officially out for the HOLIDAYS!
Heading to lovely Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Presidente Intercontinental

My sleepy beach town. . .

Happy Holidays!!

Fashion Must

A season must.
No one makes a better shoe than Mr. Louboutin.
He is a shoe god! I am drooling. . .

Platform Mary Jane Slingback
Bergdorf Goodman

YEAH! BRITNEY

Britney Spears VAULTS to No. 1

Britney Spears ' "Circus" takes the singer back to the top of the national sales chart after selling 505,000 copies during its first week of release. Billboard notes that it makes her the first act with four albums to sell 500,000 or more copies out of the gate. (LA Times)

HOORAY for our Pop Princess!

Dessert

Where can I buy some yummy desserts for my holiday party - something on the higher end?

The perfect solution - CUPCAKES!
The chocolate is fantastic and the red velvet cake melts in your mouth.
They can customize for practically any holiday or occasion.
And HOW CUTE!

New Car

Any thoughts or opinions on a new car?

Ahh, well lucky for you (haha) i have an opinion on almost everything...
- Mercedes: the C class is great and reasonably priced. the sports sedan is very cute
- BMW: 328i is such a nice model, my friend has one and the gas mileage is great. only set back is it is a 2door (hard to deal if you have a lot of passengers) but his is dark green with beautiful tan leather interior
- Lexus: the 400h (Hybrid) is so nice, that model is really luxurious, something with a bit more size but it is an SUV so may be a turn off
- I'm a fan of Saab forever but thats just me
- the Audi is a nice car too . . . ?

- Prius: though they are not very sexy, the certainly will save you tons of $$ on gas

I think you need to think of something that will last, is comfortable and gets good gas mileage. How practical and grownup we have to be!

Tommaso Ristorante Italiano

Pizza to die for! Pasta to dream about!
Don't miss this yummy family spot on the cusp of North Beach.
The pepperoni comes out crispy and the lasagna is so rich and heavenly it melts in your mouth.
It's a family style spot and there is usually a wait.

We ordered a margarita pizza and split some spaghetti and meatballs. . . . DELISH!

http://www.tommasosnorthbeach.com/

1042 Kearny St
San Francisco, CA 94133
(415) 398-9696

Fashion Must

I am loving the jumpsuits this season!
Keep the legs tailored long and wear skyscrapers for heels.
The longer everything is on your body the thinner and more fab you will look!

Tea Room

Do you know of a nice Tea House in San Francisco?
My best friend's dad just passed away, and we are escaping for a tea and crumpets afternoon. Want her to have a really nice time... she loves english tea w/scones, etc.

AHH. There is one in the golden gate park that is very cool.
Take a scarf and a stroll. . .
http://www.holymtn.com/garden/Gallery/index_teagarden.html

http://www.samovartea.com/
this might be a bit more hip, they call it a tea lounge. . . mama likey

http://www.crownandcrumpet.com/

perhaps a bit more traditional

I have heard good things but havent been. . . . traditional afternoon tea.
http://www.secretgardenteahouse.net/

Hair Must

Here is what I recommend:

Alix or Dwight @ Stephen Siaz Salon
560 Sutter St (between Mason St & Powell St)
San Francisco, CA 94102
(415) 398-2345
http://www.stephensaizsalon.com/
I have been seeing Alix myself for 4+years. . . he is great, and if you take a photo of color or styles you like he is very good about getting you there.

Oxenrose - J. is great
448 Grove St (between Gough St & Octavia St)
San Francisco, CA 94102
(415) 252-9723
http://www.oxenrosesalon.com/

Cinta Salon
23 Grant Ave
Second Floor (between Market St & Ofarrell St)
San Francisco, CA 94108
(415) 989-1000
http://www.cinta.com/

diPietro Todd
177 Post Street
2nd Floor (between Grant Ave & Robert Kirk Ln)
San Francisco, CA 94108
(415) 397-0177
http://www.dipietrotodd.com/
This is my least favorite, I just think they over book and not enough attention to individuals but they do a good job. I also know that Michael O'Rourke in the Palo Alto salon is to die for! Palo Alto too far to travel for Mama.

New Music

If you haven't purchased the new Beyonce album. . . do it!
I am...Sasha Fierce has enough to keep you moving on the treadmill and a gentler side to cool out to.

Tomorrow Britney Spears new albums drops.
I am such a 12 year old girl at heart! I am so excited and hope for Britney's continued success.

You say I'm crazy. . . I got your crazy

Brunch

Universal Cafe

If you have not been - Universal Cafe is a wonderful spot for Brunch on Saturday or Sunday.

They have a waiting list at the door - be prepared to wait for 30mins +. It's a small space so seating is tight but the fresh food and bi-weekly changing menu is to die for.

Universal Cafe
2814 19th St
San Francisco, CA 94110
(415) 821-4608
http://www.universalcafe.net/

Four Seasons, SF

Four Seasons - SF

Ok. . . I am a bit hotel-obsessed at the moment but I am continually satisfied with the Four Seasons.

Just a tip: brunch on Saturday and Sunday rocks!

I have been going consistently for about a month now. Parking is easy down there and Barney's is just a block away for a little post-brunch therapy.

Oh and a side note, it is also a celeb spot - so far I have seen Kate Hudson, Owen Wilson, William Baldwin and his wife and the NBA uses it as a hub when the teams are in town. (The Sports Club LA is next door with a full basketball court.) Chicago Bulls there today, too bad they got NO GAME!

After the party . . . it’s the hotel lobby

I've been in a hotel bar kinda-mood lately. Give me the Four Seasons NYC or the W Westwood in LA any day of the week.

I can't seem to figure out why the hotel bar situation in San Francisco is lacking. I say let's bring it.

I've been traveling over to the lobby bar at the Four Seasons, people this is for grown folks. A lovely selection of appetizers and wines by the glass.

Been to the bar at the St Regis or W in SF? Both are also great spots to linger for after work cocktails or weekend pre-dinner drinks.

I'm just sayin. . . for the 30-something + crowd, we need something a bit more distinguished.

See you there!

St Regis Bar in San Francisco

Random Advice

I received the following request from a girlfriend:

forgive the random sf-advice-emails, but i need your yelp-like advice yet again. . .for my oh-so-testosterone-fueled male friend. . . see below. . .

"I'm meeting this chicky who is in from out of town tonight and she's staying at a local hotel, what are some good spots to grab a drink that will help me get laid? I was thinking clift hotel, maybe medjool (is that rooftop just for warm weather?), or maybe something with a view but no cover".

men are so pleasant arent they? least he is honest.

Redwood Room at the Clift on Geary

so the clift is a good spot. . .
the bar at the Four Seasons is cool - i like it anyhow, pretty grown up though ladies do like that
the bar at Chez Papa Resto on Jessie is very cool (nice bar to saddle up to)
the bar on at the Marriott on 4th street - yeah its the Marriot but its on the 39th floor, great views, piano bar feel
the bar at the St Regis, nice spot (on 3rd)

HMMM - guess im in a hotel kinda mood today, wishing i was in NYC at the Four Seasons bar myself having a some sliders and a martini.
YUM! DRINKS FOOD FUN - Sign me up.

Hope this helps - i do have more of course if we need to go deeper into my rolodex.
Today's fee will be $1,000,000 - small bills please :)

Spruce

I've been hearing about "Spruce" now for a few months, "It's in PacHeights, it's great, can I get a private room there". . . YEAH YEAH YEAH.

Being the stubborn Taurus that I am - I have been reluctant to go. After all if it's not in the Mission or SOMA areas - I really have zero interest.

WELL - I dined there the other nite with 3 girlfriends. I showed up early, around 430p (why not get started early!!) Bubbles Please!

The bartender was beyond great - he made my friend who was in the mood for something festive, a Moscow Mule - Vodka, ginger & lime.

Delicious & Refreshing.
The atmosphere in the restaurant is very chic and NY, I was impressed.
We dined and drank, the Sommelier, Andrew, was very helpful and attentive.
I highly recommed this spot for a date, for girlfriends, for a business dinner, for a private dinner party, a buy out for a holiday party or reception.

Only wish it was closer to my hood - Mama doesn't travel to Sac street often!

Spruce
3640 Sacramento Street
415.931.5100

http://www.sprucesf.com/