DORIS BERGMAN’S STYLE LOUNGE & PARTY IN CELEBRATION OF EMMY SEASON

 

[Note: As usual, each Emmys Suite gets its own write-up, in the order of my visits this year. So, please make sure to check each day’s column this week to learn about all the fabulous-ness. This is the first of five. (Because these were my first events out of the house since my hand surgery, I had to limit my suites visits to five, so I chose my perennial favorites.) I had an associate accompany me to each suite; Diane is the contributing writer on this one. Her included remarks are the ones in quotes.]

Doris Bergman’s events are the ones I look forward to all year! (I actually left the house for the first time in two months, since I hurt my hands, to go to this party because I couldn’t bear to miss it!) There are so many elements in play here that make us all feel comfortable, whether we are returning guests or newcomers; Doris herself greets everyone, we guests get to actually chat with the sponsors in a relaxed setting where they are not just telling us about their products, everyone mingles all day long, and we get fed! What’s not to love?

Another thing I love is that she often changes the venue for her events, which gives a whole different feel to what we were expecting from the time before. This time, it was held at the uber-happening Fig and Olive eatery on Melrose Place. The gifting took place on the adjacent private covered patio, where the pleasant servers constantly brought around their famous crostinis, each one more delicious than the one before. The toppings are not to be believed; here’s just a sampling of them: Goat Cheese, Caramelized Onion, and Chive; Burrata, Tomato, Herbs, and Balsamic; Manchego, Fig, and Marcona Almond; Prosciutto, Ricotta, Fig, Olive, and Walnut; how do they think of these combos?

When the clock hit noon, we were welcomed inside the restaurant for a beautiful buffet lunch. Vegetarian Diane loved their signature Fig and Olive salad, and focaccia bread with various cheeses, (she and her husband are regulars there,) while carnivorous me was delighted with the shrimp pasta and marinated chicken.

But the passed mini-desserts were the best! I could have eaten a dozen of the chocolate pot de cremes, and not even felt guilty!

The fabulous food and gifts are just two of the reasons that Doris’s events attract so many real celebrities. Either that, or they know that I’ll be there. I’ll give more details on them in the upcoming Celeb Sightings column, but there are two I want to tell you about right now.

I’m rarely excited to see famous TV people, but I was actually very happy to see So You Think You Can Dance judge Mary Murphy, looking better than she probably ever has in her entire life!!!  I knew she was on a diet, and now I know the deets of it, for myself. She looked like she was in her 20s!

The other one is the perennially-gorgeous Robert Wagner, the biggest star I’ve ever seen at a suite!!! I actually used to know him because he was a fan of my show; I almost fainted when he told me that all those years ago. I was too busy staring at his gorgeous face at this event to stop by his table and say hi, but that was really enough for me. He was with his daughter Katie, with whom I did a nightmare pilot for a shopping show many years ago. I could have had a happy fam reunion with them, but we’ll save that for when I’m feeling more myself.

I actually had limited time at this soiree because of my injured hands, so I chose to spend it learning about all these fabulous products to share with you. So let’s get to them already!

Whitening Lightning—I’ve long been a fan of this company that not only has a line of teeth whitening products, but now lip glosses and eye brow powders, as well. Diane was amazed at the array, and said it’s “everything you need for bright, white teeth and fresh breath. It’s also so easy to use, and the plumping glosses come in great colors!” www.whiteninglightning.com

Lusciouss Jewelry—I first discovered this designer at Doris’ suite about three years ago, and boy, has she progressed since then!  I always let her choose a jewelry item for me, rather than making myself crazy choosing for myself, because I love just about everything she designs. She chose a silver and rhinestone cocktail ring that I hope to wear when my now-swollen hands are finally better. That’s a good carrot for me to keep going to physical therapy. www.lusciouss.com

Radar Watches–We loved the colorful “comfortable to wear” square watches, with a “great shape and design,” including some with a “13” and place of the “12,” for people who are the opposite of superstitious! Diane loved that they “light up, so you can see the time in low light,” like at the theater, so you don’t have to be rude to your seat-mates by opening your phone! www.radarwatches.com

Model In A Bottle–I was glad to see that this “light, paraben-free finishing spray” that’s used after make-up application, and “eliminates the need for re-touching make-up,” now also comes in a formula for sensitive skin. Upon checking-out their site, I discovered that they have some other new products, as well, so hopefully I’ll review those for you down the line. www.modelinabottle.com

Nature’s Flavors—This healthful products company continues to surprise us with different gifts at each of Doris’ suites! When I asked them how they can keep coming up with new ones for each event, Tracy and Bill told me of the staggering number of products they make. I look forward to trying each and every one of them. At this suite, they went with gluten-free pancake and waffle mixes and maple syrup, among other flavorful, healthful gifts. Now we just need someone to come to my house and actually make the creations for me! www.naturesflavors.com

Single Dress–Company rep Mike showed us that most of these attractive dresses had figure shapers built right in, which is one of the smartest things I’ve seen in a long time. Of course, I don’t personally need that help, but it’s good to know they’re there, just in case. www.singledress.com

Dulcenea Lingerie–I’ve always enjoyed this company’s sexy lace panties (and so has Mr. X!) (I just read that back, and I realize that I better qualify that he enjoys them on me!) But at this suite, they were featuring their new “attractive and comfortable pantyhose, tights, and thigh-highs in fun patterns.”  I’m so thrilled that it’s finally Fall, so that fashion rules will allow us to wear them. www.dulcenealingerie.com

My Saint, My Hero–I was too busy discussing the lengths of our dresses with the ladies from this bracelet company to get their story. But it looks like a blessing goes along with each attractive black and silver bracelet.  I could sure use one of those right about now, (a blessing, not a bracelet, although I can always use one of those, too,) so I wish I had concentrated enough to pick-up one of their healing ones! Good-looking jewelry with a positive message—what an inspirational item. www.mysaintmyhero.com

Art Lewin Bespoke Executive Clothiers–Diane was impressed with the “nicely-packaged, well-made, personalized custom men’s wear.” They were gifting men’s ties in the new trendy colors of pink and purple. www.artlewin.com

Art By Dano–Artist Dano was displaying his original paintings of old school Hollywood icons and rock ‘n rollers.  Every guest left with a signed print of the Rat Pack, which was interesting to me because, although I didn’t live in the era, I used to go to Sammy Davis’ house often because I was friends with his son, and I also have connections to Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra. Dano’s paintings really capture that world. www.artbydano.com

Roadkill Ranch–This is a boutique in Orange County, about whom I’ve written several times. I hope to make it down to their store one of these days, but until then, they were giving away little pendants in the shape of California. But the next time I go to Italy, I think I’ll just turn it around and make believe that that’s the location it’s supposed to be.  www.roadkillranch.com

Run Safety Pepper Spray—As a female producer who’s often out around town alone, Diane was impressed with this “very clever, easy to wear and operate, personal safety device,” which is “excellent for peace-of- -mind, whether walking to a car or running for exercise.” I just like it because it’s colorful and attractive! And… I’m paranoid! www.runsafety.com

Slash Salon–the owner of this Santa Monica salon was there giving-out her spray product, and Diane could not believe how soft the woman’s hair was! She said she “can’t wait to try this new spray hair gel” that’s touted to “add volume and reduce frizz.” And, from one redhead to another, (even though the owner’s locks are bright red, and mine are just auburn,) I hope to review the salon for you before the end of the year. www.morethanaslash.com

Twisted Silver–The designer of this jewelry line always has so many new pieces to display.  I noticed some of the other sponsors wearing them, as a matter of fact, which is a pretty good recommendation. www.twisted-silver.com