Five Things I’m Currently Loving in the Desert

There’s no food I love more than chicken strips — the thinner, the better — so when I first sampled schnitzel on a trip to Switzerland years ago, I was instantly hooked. (I love it so much, we even named one of our cats Schnitzel!) You can imagine my delight upon discovering Alps Village, which specializes in the dish and was recently named by USA Today as one of the best restaurants in the country! Its schnitzel did not disappoint — nor did the spätzle, mashed potatoes, or jäger sauce! From the warm, welcoming owners to the extensive menu and absolutely delicious food, everything about the place is perfekt!

When local photographer Bre Flores generously reached out to offer new headshots recently, it felt like such a serendipitous connection — especially when she suggested using La Quinta Resort(one of my favorite spots) as our backdrop! We met up one particularly humid August morning, and despite the intense temps, Bre captured some truly beautiful shots. Warm, engaging, and relaxed, she immediately put me at ease as we wandered the hotel’s gorgeous grounds, chatting and posing away. Not only did I end up with photos I love — I also made a new friend. If you’re in need of portraits — or photography of any kind — I can’t recommend her enough.

I’ve always been an avid reader, but lately, have found myself in a bit of a rut. So Baby’s Marché’s new Blind Date with a Book nook felt like the perfect antidote. The concept is as charming as it sounds: each book is wrapped in paper (obscuring the title) and bundled with a sweet handful of goodies — pen, highlighter, sprig of lavender! — with a brief description and Goodreads rating included, making the unwrapping all part of the fun — and far more exciting than simply adding to cart on Amazon! I chose a mystery/thriller (my favorite genre) and was delighted to uncover The Lost Apothecary. It’s quickly proving the perfect cure for my reading slump, not to mention keeping me up far past my bedtime! The deli is also set to launch a virtual book club soon, so stay tuned.

My friend Heidi and I stumbled upon this charming vintage shop tucked down a quaint Palm Springs alleyway a few weeks back and instantly felt like we’d been transported to a Parisian haberdashery of yesteryear! Teeming with exquisite vintage treasures — each personally hand-selected and imported from Europe by the owner, Sophie, who speaks with the most delightful French turns of phrase — every piece is prettier than the last. From dresses and heels to purses and hats (all seemingly plucked straight from Mrs. Maisel’s closet), if you love vintage finds, Sophie of Paris is a must-visit.

I’ve long dreamed of giving my powder room a Palm Springs-inspired makeover — complete with this pink wallpaper (so Everything-Palm-Springs-coded, amiright?) and a mix of framed desert-themed prints hung about. So when I came across (BY) ALEISHA’S Other Desert Citiesillustrations at Mojave Flea Trading Post recently, I snapped one up — despite having no immediate reno plans. When the time comes, though, the piece will add the perfect pop of color and whimsy to my powder room, especially alongside this vintage menu art I have my eye on!