Archive for the ‘Hollywood’ Category

Today’s Mini-Moon post has special significance as it is the first since I became engaged to my partner, Preston, last Sunday.

It’s been a very exciting week for my family, friends, and me, and it only seems appropriate that I devote this entry to the hotel where it all happened.

I’ve always loved the Chateau Marmont, and Preston quickly picked up on my fascination with the stately and historic Hollywood venue. Simply put, it’s one of the most magical properties in Los Angeles. Very little has changed here over the years, minus the restorations and modern upgrades. It will forever be a beautiful, chic playground for guests in need of a little glamour away from the public eye.

So when Preston got down on one knee in the secluded courtyard, it felt like it was only us and the striking hotel façade in the background. It was actually the two of us along with a dozen of our closest friends waiting in a gorgeous suite on the 6th floor. Looking out from the balcony with all these people I love, I thought surely this was heaven.

Recommended Resort:  Chateau Marmont Hotel and Bungalows. Modeled after a royal residence in France’s Loire Valley, the elegant and towing Chateau has been a grand fixture on Sunset Boulevard for nearly a century. Of course the stars flocked here, taking up residency for weeks or months at a time, a tradition still popular among today’s celebs.

This place is known for its privacy, a little sanctuary tucked away from cameras and adoring fans. One could simply escape to the walled garden for a bit of lunch, climb an elevator to a penthouse with panoramic views of Hollywood, or duck into a private bungalow and cool off in the pool. Once you check in, you may very well never choose to leave. It’s that good.

Check In: 8221 Sunset Boulvard, Hollywood. 323-656-1010, chateaumarmont.com

Check Out:  The patio restaurant. More of a café than formal dining venue, it’s none-the-less charming, delightful and delicious. Surrounded by green and the stunning façade of the hotel, you might think you were in France if the waiters didn’t speak such perfect English. The service is genial and the food tasty.

Though wonderful all day long, I particularly love breakfast when it is mostly hotel residents seated in the wicker chairs. Try the banana bread with caramelized bananas and yogurt with a pot of tea. Dreamy.

Don’t Miss:  The bungalows. I have a personal preference for the penthouses and suites on the top floors of the hotel itself (can’t beat the views), but if you want totally intimacy and privacy, I suggest one of the famous bungalows.

There are three options here: the Hillside Bungalows, the Poolside Bungalows and the Garden Cottages. All have their individual charms, but I’m fond of those by the pool, each with private entrance and patio, two or three bedrooms, a living room, full kitchen and dining room. The pool is only steps away for soaking in all that glorious Southern California sunshine.

Want more honeymoon ideas? Check out our other Mini-Moon and Honeymoon Blog Posts!

Blog Post by Always a Bridesmaid Columnist Darren Elms.

Photos of hotel courtesy of  Chateau Marmont Hotel and Bungalows. Photos of Darren and Preston courtesy of the couple.

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