Oscars Gift Lounge Set Up

Day 2.

I went to bed at 10:00 my first night in California. Yes, I know, I am like a 90 year old woman. I get that. But I was exhausted from a day of traveling- so 10:00 was fine by me to pass out.

Thursday. Set up day. We had a big day ahead of us. Today was the day we get to set up for the spectacular Oscars Gift Lounge taking place Friday and Saturday. But before set up... we needed some yummy food. We ate at The Sofitel's restaurant a ton over this week- and let me just say, all of the food was just fabulous.

Since I take photos of everything, of course I have to show you my breakfast.

After lounging in the hotel for a bit, Val took me to some touristy spot that you may know of....
Rodeo Drive.

Definitely passed the famous shop from Pretty Woman. I had to use all my might not to go in and start yelling "Big Mistake.... Huge!".... I didn't want to embarrass Val. So I kept my cool. haha

While walking along this street I was just in awe of all the gorgeous shops. One day, I swear, I will have enough money to shop here. One day. Until that day... I'll just awkwardly take pictures outside of stores.

From Rodeo Drive, we went to a yummy cupcake place, Sprinkles. Which actually took us some time to find since both Val and myself are directionally challenged. But the cupcakes were worth it. 100% worth it.

Now. Back to the hotel. Time for set up.

The Artisan Group has 25 items on display during these events. There is a lot to unpack.

You see a couple boxes here... Imagine a million more off to the side. haha It took us about 2 hours to set up completely... Myself, Valerie, and Rachel (one of the fine members of TAG).

Rachel and Myself. BOOM. Awesome set up!

Val and Rachel!

It looks beautiful doesn't it!

I felt so accomplished after this set up. Val and Rachel normally do every event set up. I give them so much credit because it is so much work! I am so happy to be able to see it first hand though- because it really is awesome to see it all come together so perfectly!

After set up, Rachel left for a bit since we were meeting up with her and some other TAG members later on for dinner. So what is it Val and I do in between? Of course, back to the hotel bar.

We were regulars at the bar. Everyone working there was just so nice!

We only had a couple of hours in between set up and going out to dinner. So this little down time was great. Val and I drank and relaxed at the bar and actually got to sit and talk to Gavin for a bit. You may ask... Who is Gavin? Well, Gavin is the head of GBK's Gift Lounge. Yep. He came over to us and had a drink. He is so nice I thought it was great to sit and talk with him a bit. Of course, I don't have a photo of him. I wasn't going to be "that girl" taking too many pictures... even though I normally am. I controlled myself. Aren't you proud?

So back to the room to get ready to meet more TAG members. I was so happy to be able to meet these fine ladies! I have been a member of TAG for over a year, and haven't met many members. This was so great to be able to go out to dinner with them!

We had so much fun at dinner!

These women are all amazing and it really made me smile to be able to meet them in person. I wish I could stay out in California to be honest, haha. If I would be able to move my friends and family there with me- I would go in a heartbeat. But unfortunately, that isn't possible. So, I'll be staying East Coast for now. But these ladies are so sweet it would be great to actually live near them and hang out. 

Of course, during dinner, I was falling asleep because as I started off this post... I'm a 90 year old woman. I couldn't help it... the time difference and everything- I felt like I was going to pass out right in the middle of my meal. But, I made it til the end, and again, went to bed somewhat early... around 10:30- 11:00 I think. Which was a good decision since the next day was THE BIG DAY. I needed my rest.

Day 2: Completed.

Come back for Day 3!