There’s something magical about Napa Valley in the early morning. As the mist hung low over the vineyards, I arrived at Chimney Rock just before sunrise to meet with Cody Stark, host of Good Day Sacramento. At 6:45 a.m., with dew still on the ground, we went over the day’s schedule for our live segment. Cody’s lighthearted energy and curiosity always make filming feel like an adventure.
We were warmly welcomed by Kimberly Bothwell, Hospitality Director and Scott Nava, Brand Manager, who guided us through their elegant tasting room. With vaulted ceilings, sunlit windows, and rows of vintages lining the walls, the space reflects Chimney Rock’s rich history and reputation as a premier Napa wine tasting destination. Kimberly shared the estate’s story of hospitality before Cody stepped away to film a few teasers, building excitement for viewers tuning into the broadcast.
By 8:00 a.m., we were off by golf cart beneath giant oak trees, heading into the vineyard to meet Elizabeth Vianna, Chimney Rock’s acclaimed Winemaker. The live segment highlighted both the art of winemaking and the milestone celebration of Chimney Rock’s 40th Vintage Anniversary. Elizabeth spoke passionately about her philosophy—crafting wines that connect deeply with people, while honoring sustainability and the estate’s legacy. Her insights into sustainable winemaking revealed why Chimney Rock continues to be a leader in Napa Valley.
At 9:00 a.m., we filmed the final segment highlighting the Vineyard Odyssey Tour, one of Chimney Rock’s most immersive experiences. Kimberly and Elizabeth walked us through the vines, explaining how the vineyard transforms with each season and how that cycle shapes the wine. Elizabeth gave viewers a harvest update, sharing her excitement about the upcoming vintage and the unique qualities it promises.
As the sun rose higher, burning away the morning fog, the vineyards glowed in golden light. Today was more than a broadcast—it was a celebration of artistry, history, and the enduring beauty of Napa Valley. Sharing this behind-the-scenes moment with Cody, Kimberly, Scott, and Elizabeth reminded me why Napa Valley continues to inspire not only wine lovers but also dreamers like myself.
If you’d like to experience the beauty and history of Chimney Rock for yourself, click here to plan your visit, and for those who want to catch all the fun with Cody Stark on Good Day Sacramento, be sure to watch the full segment below.
From the intricate Art Nouveau brooches to the timeless elegance of Edwardian gold, vintage jewelry tells a story of history, mystery, and craftsmanship.
Each piece carries a rich narrative—one that spans decades, countries, and generations. It’s almost as if fate has a hand in it when a vintage treasure finds its way to a new owner.
When you’re shopping for vintage jewelry, there’s a lot more to consider than just its beauty. You’ll want to think about its provenance, the story behind it, and the overall condition of the piece. Finding high-quality vintage jewelry takes a trained eye. Growing up, I would peek inside my grandmother’s jewelry box every Sunday after church, admiring the delicate pieces that had stories etched into them. The way the light danced off the gemstones and the unique designs captured my heart. When I was older, and after my grandmother’s passing when I was just 8 years old, I carried on that tradition with my mother. We would blend her more modern jewelry with my grandmother’s timeless pieces, creating a beautiful fusion of past and present. That’s when I truly fell in love with the art of jewelry—both the history behind each piece and the connection they create across generations.
Determining Value
When buying vintage jewelry, understanding its value is crucial, and it goes beyond just its appearance. Start by evaluating the setting and the quality of the materials. High-quality stones, such as diamonds or sapphires, should be scrutinized for authenticity—whether they are natural or imitation.
Pay close attention to the craftsmanship, as well as the condition of the piece. Vintage jewelry can often show signs of wear, which adds to its charm, but it’s important to ensure that it’s still structurally sound. Buyers often use tools like magnifying glasses to check for hallmarks, signatures, or serial numbers that confirm the piece’s origin or designer. Weighing the piece is another common method to determine its worth, as the metal content and gemstone weight affect its overall value.
Lastly, it’s essential to understand the piece’s age and provenance—whether it’s classified as vintage, antique, or retro—as this can impact its rarity and market value. With the right knowledge, you’ll not only appreciate the beauty of the piece, but also recognize its true worth.
Style Guide
Knowing whether you’re drawn to antique or vintage jewelry will help you figure out what speaks to you. Do you gravitate toward the elegance of Edwardian pieces or the artistic flair of Art Nouveau? A little research into these periods will help you understand the styles you should be looking for when you shop.
Style is everything when it comes to vintage jewelry. From bold Art Deco rings to delicate Victorian coral chokers, vintage and antique pieces can cater to a wide variety of tastes. Even if you’re a fan of iconic jewelry houses like Cartier or Tiffany & Co., vintage shopping might be your ticket to owning a coveted piece from these brands without the hefty price tag. I’ve found that vintage jewelry doesn’t have to be expensive—you can discover many beautiful pieces at thrift shops, online marketplaces, and estate sales for a fraction of the price.
If you’re looking for something unique, feel free to check out my Etsy boutique, where I sell not only carefully curated vintage pieces but also selections from my personal collection. Explore the treasures and add a little history to your own jewelry box!
In the enchanting world of 1950s fashion, where grace, elegance, and timeless style reign supreme, the choices we make reflect not just our wardrobe but a commitment to a bygone era.
As a fashion model, on-air vintage style expert, and YouTube host, I am deeply passionate about preserving the aesthetic of the 1950s era. It’s important to me to clarify the difference between vintage & thrifting – two terms frequently used interchangeably but representing distinct approaches to style.
Vintage, in the context of 1950s fashion, is a curated collection of garments from the actual era itself. These are treasures that have withstood the test of time, carrying the essence of an era celebrated for its meticulous tailoring, feminine silhouettes, and attention to detail. Each vintage piece tells a story, weaving a narrative of the past into the present, evoking the glamour of icons like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe. Investing in vintage is an homage to craftsmanship, embracing the authenticity of a bygone era.
On the other hand, thrifting is a contemporary endeavor that involves scouring second-hand stores for unique finds, often from a variety of eras. While thrifting can yield remarkable discoveries, it lacks the specificity and historical context inherent in true vintage pieces. Thrifted items may span various styles and decades, making it an exciting but eclectic venture. It’s a treasure hunt where unexpected gems are waiting to be uncovered.
So, why draw a distinction between vintage and thrifting? It’s about preserving the integrity of the 1950s aesthetic. Vintage pieces offer a genuine connection to the past, embodying the spirit of an era known for its grace and sophistication. Thrifting, while an adventure in sustainable fashion, tends to amalgamate styles and eras, diluting the distinct charm of the 1950s.
In essence, embracing vintage in 1950s fashion is an act of reverence, a commitment to the artistry and ethos of an iconic era. It allows us to transcend time, celebrating the enduring allure of a period that continues to inspire and captivate the hearts of fashion enthusiasts around the globe. So, whether you’re donning a meticulously tailored vintage dress or embarking on a thrifting adventure, remember – each choice reflects your dedication to the timeless elegance of 1950s fashion.
Explore this topic further and gain valuable insights on how to shop for vintage by tuning in to my latest on-air segment, filmed on location at the Antique Warehouse in Salida, alongside host Cody Stark on Good Day Sacramento.
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Black Crepe Dress, similar style here
Flower Rhinestone Brooch, similar here
Foundation CHANEL, Lipstick MAC Cosmetics
Nail Polish, Red-Carpet Manicure
In the journey of faith, there’s a crucial distinction between waiting ON God and waiting WITH God. It’s not just wordplay; it reflects a profound difference in mindset and approach.
Waiting ON God often entails impatience, a sense of entitlement, and a desire for immediate fulfillment. It’s akin to tapping one’s foot, saying, “Alright, God, when will you make this happen? I want it now!” This attitude can lead to frustration and even taking matters into our own hands, as I learned from my own story.
When I sold my condo in 2022, I was convinced it was God’s will. However, instead of waiting WITH Him, I was waiting ON Him, eager for the next step without fully surrendering. I hastily decided to move to Los Angeles, driven more by a need for validation, the urge to chase reality, and undesirable patterns, rather than by divine guidance. The result? The worst three weeks of my life, filled with anxiety and regret.
I realized then that I had approached the situation all wrong. Instead of trusting in God’s timing and plan, I allowed self-validation and impatience to dictate my actions. It was a painful but necessary lesson.
Waiting WITH God, on the other hand, involves trust, surrender, and patience. It means aligning our will with His and being open to His guidance, even when it doesn’t align with our timeline or expectations. It requires faith to surrender our desires and allow Him to work in His time and His way.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven – Matthew 6:10
In my journey back home, I came to understand the importance of waiting WITH God. It’s not about passively sitting back; it’s about actively participating in the process of preparation and transformation. It’s about letting go of what no longer serves us, trusting that God is preparing us for the promises he has placed in our hearts.
Proverbs 3:5 reminds us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and not lean on our own understanding. This verse encapsulates the essence of waiting WITH God – trusting him wholeheartedly, even when we can’t see the full picture.
Even if we find ourselves revisiting the same lesson multiple times or returning to a familiar place, there’s nothing wrong with that. Our journey is uniquely tailored for our growth and understanding. So, returning back to Los Angeles again is a part of the journey then so be it. Some of us are stubborn and refuse to fully submit until we are ready. Trust me, when you are ready, everything—absolutely everything—will fall into place.
I invite you all to take a moment and check out last week’s episode of Dose of Doris, where I delve much deeper into the journey I am currently on. To close, the best thing we can do is openly embrace the journey, knowing that God is with us every step of the way—or, in my case, giving me a second chance in the City of Lost Angels.
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Sequin Gown, similar style here
Gold Bracelet here
Foundation CHANEL, Lipstick MAC Cosmetics
Nail Polish, Red-Carpet Manicure
richinlovefashion.com 