Hi guys!
I hope everyone is enjoying their summer!
I want to take a moment to give much overdue thanks to you all for helping make Sandra Stillwell Presents 10th Anniversary celebration, "Golden Gate Glamour", a resounding (sold out!) success!!
Golden Gate Glamour was such an overwhelmingly positive --- yet emotional --- experience for me that it takes a bit to gather my feelings on it all.
My gratitude is, at times, all consuming and I find myself staring at a blank page because mere words of thanks seem simply insufficient.
Over the years I've received many expressions of thanks for the fun experiences and gifts connected with "Sandra Stillwell Presents" conventions. It means more than you'll know to hear how my events have impacted lives. Still, I can't help but feel that the true gifts are not those I give through conventions, but the gifts that have been afforded me every step of the way.
"Golden Gate Glamour" has been one such gift. Though it was my "baby", the convention became so much more than my dream. I felt as if, once in San Francisco, it was lifted from my hands and delivered to all of you who made it successful...each conventioneer, guest, speaker, manufacturer, vendor, the hotel -- and especially my incomparable volunteer staff-- everyone who played a part in making the event so very special. You gifted me in immeasurable ways.
Our ten year retrospective could not have been more meaningful, as highlights of fun times and bittersweet remembrances of missing friends and loved ones who graced our lives over the past years rolled across the screen.
Surrounded by friends... both old and new -- in attendance, in spirit, or following along from home -- I felt truly embraced by love.
I am humbled by the high praise and compliments for the Golden Gate Glamour collection. It is very meaningful to me that the fashions bring everyone such joy.
I share credit for collection with many:
Not only was I inspired by "The Master", but I was also blessed to work with several wonderful factories, workrooms and sample makers this year....not to mention dear friends who generously donated their time to make accessories and were always there to bounce ideas off of.
When creating the Balenciaga inspired collection, it was my hope that fellow collectors would feel like children at Christmas when they opened their gift boxes and be inspired to spend hours at "play" with the many different pieces. From the fabulous pictures I see posted online, I'm delighted that you are doing just that!
I couldn't have wished for a more perfect setting than San Francisco for my "Sandra Stillwell Presents" 10th Anniversary Celebration! It's easy to understand how it came be known as "America's favorite city"!
From the gracious San Francisco people, the warm and accommodating hotel staff, knowledgeable docents and interesting tour guides...and especially the enthusiastic bay area collectors ...everyone we met in San Francisco made us feel most welcome in their beautiful city.
So...once again, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the city of San Francisco and everyone involved in making "Golden Gate Glamour" what I envisioned it to be.
Special thanks to both George Gonzales of Angelic Dreamz and the JamieShow team for our stunning Golden Gate Glamour Sasha. It was a pleasure and privilege to collaborate with these wonderful people on our second exclusive Sandra Stillwell Presents JamieShow centerpiece doll.
Most notably, my deepest and undying gratitude to my volunteers...dear friends who worked tirelessly to make my vision a reality. As always, I couldn't have done it without you!
Thank you all for the beautiful ending to my first decade of organizing conventions. It has been my privilege, indeed.
Here's looking forward to another decade of fun, friendship and wonderful convention experiences in new cities...and who knows...maybe a return to a few favorite places!
If any of you have any suggestions of where you would like to go in future years, please drop me a line! I love chatting with you all!
I truly did leave a little piece of my heart in San Francisco, and am already contemplating our next visit...!
Until next time...
Sincerely,
Sandra
Limited number of event items available!
I have a very limited number of event items available for purchase. If you are interested in any, please email me.
dls6643@aol.com
Click on the SALES tab above to view items!
dls6643@aol.com
Click on the SALES tab above to view items!
All good things must come to an end....
I will post a wrap up later this week but I wanted to thank all my helpers who put in so much to help make this a wonderful event! And thanks to Jeff Lega for the photos you see posted here!
We are off on a tour today but I hope you have enjoyed our blog coverage of Golden Gate Glamour!
We are off on a tour today but I hope you have enjoyed our blog coverage of Golden Gate Glamour!
Gala 10th Anniversary Dinner
The day began with everyone making a trip to the DeYoung Museum to view the marvelous Balenciaga exhibit.
The final banquet was a 10 year celebration of Sandra Stillwell events.
The centerpiece Gene appeared in "X" (the Roman numeral for 10), an evening ensemble shown as two separate looks; gown with evening coat or with poof.
Everyone received the final gift set fashion, a color variation of the centerpiece "X".
The entire gift set collection is named "Cristobel's Collection"!
The final banquet was a 10 year celebration of Sandra Stillwell events.
The centerpiece Gene appeared in "X" (the Roman numeral for 10), an evening ensemble shown as two separate looks; gown with evening coat or with poof.
Everyone received the final gift set fashion, a color variation of the centerpiece "X".
The entire gift set collection is named "Cristobel's Collection"!
Golden Gate Glamour Dinner
Fridays dinner featured an amazing JamieShow Golden Gate Glamour Sasha centerpiece.
Gene was featured as two dressed dolls for sale in Balenciaga inspired gowns, "Marquesa" and "Princesa".
"Marquesa"
"Princesa".
A special Violet Waters doll "Flamenco" commemorating her 10th anniversary was available for purchase as well as a fashion modeled by Madra called "Barcelona".
The table gift was a set of assorted hats and accessories.
Everyone recieved the second part of the event gift set, an evening wear set.
Gene was featured as two dressed dolls for sale in Balenciaga inspired gowns, "Marquesa" and "Princesa".
"Marquesa"
"Princesa".
A special Violet Waters doll "Flamenco" commemorating her 10th anniversary was available for purchase as well as a fashion modeled by Madra called "Barcelona".
The table gift was a set of assorted hats and accessories.
Everyone recieved the second part of the event gift set, an evening wear set.
Friday Lecture
Event attendees attended a lecture by Lynne Day and Wayne Nilson. Both have had fashions produced by Ashton Drake for Gene Marshall and spoke of their experiences.
Offered for sale was "Paris of the West", a fashion based on a LilliAnn dress.
Centerpieces featured Ashton Drake Gene and Violet in suites based on LilliAnn designs and named after areas in San Francisco; Union Square, Pacific Heights, Russian Hill and Nob Hill.
Offered for sale was "Paris of the West", a fashion based on a LilliAnn dress.
Centerpieces featured Ashton Drake Gene and Violet in suites based on LilliAnn designs and named after areas in San Francisco; Union Square, Pacific Heights, Russian Hill and Nob Hill.
More Lunch Photos!
Shopping time is FUN time San Francisco!!
Display of last nights centerpieces.
Lunch is served!
About "The Master"!
Don't you love getting all these goodies?!
Balenciaga & Spain Lunch
Friday's lunch was all about Balenciaga! Special guest speaker Julia Geist from the DeYoung Museum, gave a lecture on the museum exhibit.
Available for sale, "Espana Noche" a lovely lace coat dress.
Centerpiece featured a green/black silk suit called "Peccadillo" and available for sale, a limited number of dressed Ivy, Gene and Madra wearing suits in three fabric variations called "Bandolier Rojo", "Bandolier Morado" and "Bandolier Rosa". All were inspired by Balenciaga creations.
Attendees recieved a miniature Balenciaga book as table gift and a velvet burn-out swing coat.
The meal gift was a day wear fashion set, part of the event gift set.
Available for sale, "Espana Noche" a lovely lace coat dress.
Centerpiece featured a green/black silk suit called "Peccadillo" and available for sale, a limited number of dressed Ivy, Gene and Madra wearing suits in three fabric variations called "Bandolier Rojo", "Bandolier Morado" and "Bandolier Rosa". All were inspired by Balenciaga creations.
Attendees recieved a miniature Balenciaga book as table gift and a velvet burn-out swing coat.
The meal gift was a day wear fashion set, part of the event gift set.
Golden Gate Glamour Thurday night dessert reception
After attendees spent the day touring San Francisco, Golden Gate Glamour officially opened with the "Bienvenidos Dessert Reception"
Available for sale was an exclusive fashion "Legacy of Light" pictured on right. Centerpieces for the reception were Zita Charles dressed in a special edition "Legacy of Light" color way blue (modeled by Gene in photo below), and Gene Marshall in "The Masters Touch".
Available for sale was an exclusive fashion "Legacy of Light" pictured on right. Centerpieces for the reception were Zita Charles dressed in a special edition "Legacy of Light" color way blue (modeled by Gene in photo below), and Gene Marshall in "The Masters Touch".
Everyone received an accessory set as a table gift and a luxurious fur coat, the first piece in the event fashion gift set.
Hello from San Francisco!
We are hard at work getting all the convention goodies together as I write this! It's going to be great to see everyone and we are going to have a blast!
I just wanted to let you all know, over the course of the weekend we will have updates here on my blog with pictures of the event items. So even if you were not able to join us, you will be able to see photos of the souvenirs and centerpiece dolls. Check back on Friday morning with a report from our Thursday night opening reception!
Wish you were here!
Sandra
I just wanted to let you all know, over the course of the weekend we will have updates here on my blog with pictures of the event items. So even if you were not able to join us, you will be able to see photos of the souvenirs and centerpiece dolls. Check back on Friday morning with a report from our Thursday night opening reception!
Wish you were here!
Sandra
A Mother's Day Tribute....
Hello friends!
I hope everyone enjoyed their Mother's Day!
It wouldn't be Mother's Day without special thoughts of Mother (I never called her "Mom"), so I can't help but take some time out from convention work and shipping Derby week sales (don't forget...the sale lasts through tonight!) to share what's on my mind...
My Mother has been gone for a few years, and I miss her lots....but she left me with many wonderful, cherished memories and traditions that never fail to put a smile in my heart...as well as the many treasures she so lovingly gifted me throughout the years.
I was a "late" baby, and a very welcomed surprise. As such, I was "indulged" but never spoiled. (Ok...at least that's what I tell myself...and truly believe! LOL!)
In many ways I had a fairytale childhood...credited only to my dear Mother's dedication, drive and commitment that I would not "want" for anything.
Mother was responsible not only for my love of dolls (and much of my doll collection), but also my passion for fashion and the "beautiful" things in life. Mother taught me not only how to entertain with flair, but also how to make any day special with an unexpected, loving touch and how to turn the most ordinary things into something unique. She was the most creative person I have ever met!
My Mother demonstrated first hand that hard work with good timing and a little luck can make your dreams reality...showing me that anything is possible if you just don't give up. (Yes...it's my Mother's fault that I am a little hard headed...LOL!)
She taught me how to be frugal so that I'm able to be extravagant!
She did not, however, teach me her knack for cooking and cleaning house...LOL...but that was OK, for she understood that not everyone is blessed with those talents.
My Mother taught me that to be "different" meant to be special and that it wasn't so bad to stand out in a crowd. I knew it was OK to be "me" whatever that entailed. She taught me not to worry over making mistakes (I still struggle with that one...LOL!) And when I fretted over not being "perfect", she let me know that, in her eyes, there was no one more special.
My Mother was always game and ready for anything...whether it was a visit from the Easter Bunny on my birthday (which is in October..LOL), an impromptu party with all the kids in my class, a drive-in movie or slumber party with both guys and gals (of course we slept on different floors), taking me to a Beatles concert when I was in the 5th grade, sewing clothes under my "creative" direction, or any of countless other fun activities!
Mother's generosity was unmatched...it wasn't unusual for her to open her heart and home to a friend who needed a place to stay or a wayward child who needed a home. She never failed to deliver when I requested a favor for friends who could use a helping hand. And I learned it never hurts to ask!
Mother often overlooked nastiness and snarkiness...showing me it's OK to be hurt, but best to turn the other cheek. She demonstrated faith, pride, courage and strength even in the face of un surmountable problems.
She was...and will always be... my angel and my hero.
So here's to you, Mother...Thank you for your unconditional and undying love. I am honored, proud and blessed to be your daughter...
I'm sure everyone has their own fond Mother's Day memories....thanks for letting me share some of mine!
Sincerely,
Sandra
I hope everyone enjoyed their Mother's Day!
It wouldn't be Mother's Day without special thoughts of Mother (I never called her "Mom"), so I can't help but take some time out from convention work and shipping Derby week sales (don't forget...the sale lasts through tonight!) to share what's on my mind...
My Mother has been gone for a few years, and I miss her lots....but she left me with many wonderful, cherished memories and traditions that never fail to put a smile in my heart...as well as the many treasures she so lovingly gifted me throughout the years.
I was a "late" baby, and a very welcomed surprise. As such, I was "indulged" but never spoiled. (Ok...at least that's what I tell myself...and truly believe! LOL!)
In many ways I had a fairytale childhood...credited only to my dear Mother's dedication, drive and commitment that I would not "want" for anything.
Mother was responsible not only for my love of dolls (and much of my doll collection), but also my passion for fashion and the "beautiful" things in life. Mother taught me not only how to entertain with flair, but also how to make any day special with an unexpected, loving touch and how to turn the most ordinary things into something unique. She was the most creative person I have ever met!
My Mother demonstrated first hand that hard work with good timing and a little luck can make your dreams reality...showing me that anything is possible if you just don't give up. (Yes...it's my Mother's fault that I am a little hard headed...LOL!)
She taught me how to be frugal so that I'm able to be extravagant!
She did not, however, teach me her knack for cooking and cleaning house...LOL...but that was OK, for she understood that not everyone is blessed with those talents.
My Mother taught me that to be "different" meant to be special and that it wasn't so bad to stand out in a crowd. I knew it was OK to be "me" whatever that entailed. She taught me not to worry over making mistakes (I still struggle with that one...LOL!) And when I fretted over not being "perfect", she let me know that, in her eyes, there was no one more special.
My Mother was always game and ready for anything...whether it was a visit from the Easter Bunny on my birthday (which is in October..LOL), an impromptu party with all the kids in my class, a drive-in movie or slumber party with both guys and gals (of course we slept on different floors), taking me to a Beatles concert when I was in the 5th grade, sewing clothes under my "creative" direction, or any of countless other fun activities!
Mother's generosity was unmatched...it wasn't unusual for her to open her heart and home to a friend who needed a place to stay or a wayward child who needed a home. She never failed to deliver when I requested a favor for friends who could use a helping hand. And I learned it never hurts to ask!
Mother often overlooked nastiness and snarkiness...showing me it's OK to be hurt, but best to turn the other cheek. She demonstrated faith, pride, courage and strength even in the face of un surmountable problems.
She was...and will always be... my angel and my hero.
So here's to you, Mother...Thank you for your unconditional and undying love. I am honored, proud and blessed to be your daughter...
I'm sure everyone has their own fond Mother's Day memories....thanks for letting me share some of mine!
Sincerely,
Sandra
Still time to register for Golden Gate Glamour!
Because registration has been so good, I've decided to extend the deadline to register for Golden Gate Glamour at the original fee of $360. I will continue to hold spots for those who have RSVP'd if you will please email to let me know you are still planning to attend. There are very few spaces available for those of you who have not RSVP 'd, but please don't wait too long! It's only one month till convention, and you won't want to miss out on what's sure to be the party of the year!
In addition to the special celebration we have planned, I'm super excited by the stunning samples arriving from the factories! I believe you...and your dollies...will agree that this is the best Sandra Stillwell Presents convention package yet!
Tour details for SF will be forthcoming soon!
Feel free to contact me personally with any questions....
I hope to see you all in San Francisco!
Sandra
502 3775153
In addition to the special celebration we have planned, I'm super excited by the stunning samples arriving from the factories! I believe you...and your dollies...will agree that this is the best Sandra Stillwell Presents convention package yet!
Tour details for SF will be forthcoming soon!
Feel free to contact me personally with any questions....
I hope to see you all in San Francisco!
Sandra
502 3775153
Kentucky Derby Sale
Hello Friends!
It's been a tough April...too much rain and too many tornado scares! Thankfully, Kentucky escaped without too much damage, but my heart goes out to our friends who have been affected by the ravishing storms.
I'm happy to see May arrive, bringing beautiful rainbows from soft, soothing showers, cheerfully bright flowers and the Kentucky Derby! Yes...even with the rain, Louisville is alive with preparations for this week's "Run for the Roses" and many festivities leading up to the "greatest two minutes in sports".
Derby hats displayed in every shop window rival the chicest chapeaus to have adorned "proper" Royal wedding guests! (Of course I was awake at 4 AM to witness the nuptials!) Whether elegant or whimsical, large or small, fanciful millinery is the one "must have" accessory for any fashionable lady around town!
Several of you have emailed to say your dolls are all set for the party! I've enjoyed seeing your Derby Dreams convention goodies featured in creative dioramas with dolls decked out in Derby silks and big fancy hats!
I don't have much time to "play" these days, but I love a good party (or romantic wedding)...so my way of celebrating is to offer free US shipping on all orders over $50 from my sales pages! Be sure to check out both pages! This great offer is good until midnight on Sunday, May 8th.
For those who don't have the Derby blanket of roses and winner's bouquet or the jockey silks from the Derby Dreams convention, I have a very few still available. You can see photos of these authentic recreations on my sales page. (Special thanks to Fil Baldowski for the beautiful pictures! )
Sandra
It's been a tough April...too much rain and too many tornado scares! Thankfully, Kentucky escaped without too much damage, but my heart goes out to our friends who have been affected by the ravishing storms.
I'm happy to see May arrive, bringing beautiful rainbows from soft, soothing showers, cheerfully bright flowers and the Kentucky Derby! Yes...even with the rain, Louisville is alive with preparations for this week's "Run for the Roses" and many festivities leading up to the "greatest two minutes in sports".
Derby hats displayed in every shop window rival the chicest chapeaus to have adorned "proper" Royal wedding guests! (Of course I was awake at 4 AM to witness the nuptials!) Whether elegant or whimsical, large or small, fanciful millinery is the one "must have" accessory for any fashionable lady around town!
Several of you have emailed to say your dolls are all set for the party! I've enjoyed seeing your Derby Dreams convention goodies featured in creative dioramas with dolls decked out in Derby silks and big fancy hats!
I don't have much time to "play" these days, but I love a good party (or romantic wedding)...so my way of celebrating is to offer free US shipping on all orders over $50 from my sales pages! Be sure to check out both pages! This great offer is good until midnight on Sunday, May 8th.
For those who don't have the Derby blanket of roses and winner's bouquet or the jockey silks from the Derby Dreams convention, I have a very few still available. You can see photos of these authentic recreations on my sales page. (Special thanks to Fil Baldowski for the beautiful pictures! )
Sandra
Exciting Golden Gate Glamour news and update!!
I am excited to announce that Angelic Dreamz and Jamie-Show will be a very special part of Golden Gate Glamour!
Once again in partnership with Angelic Dreamz, we bring you our second Sandra Stillwell Presents Jamie-Show centerpiece. Created exclusively for Golden Gate Glamour, this ultra limited beauty is inspired by a 1950 Balenciaga couture design. She will be presented at Friday night's dinner, graciously hosted by Angelic Dreamz/Jamie-Show in honor of my 10th Anniversary Celebration!
I was privileged to meet the mega talented Jamie-Show team at IDEX this past February, and was immediately impressed by their warmth and enthusiasm. Angelic Dreamz has long been a special supporter and valued member of the doll community. It was my pleasure to collaborate with these two outstanding companies and I thank them for their generous support.
Just to update you all, Golden Gate Glamour is nearly sold out. So if you are on the fence about joining us for an unforgettable weekend, email me ASAP!
The hotel room block is extremely limited so I have been monitoring our numbers according to your input on the nights you plan to register at the hotel. June is a busy month in San Francisco. I can increase my room block now but may not be able to at a later date. It is extremely important that you touch base to let me know the nights you will be staying. It also helps to know if you will be sharing a room.
We have exciting tours planned for Thursday and Sunday you will not want to miss. Our tours are dependent on meeting a minimum number of attendees so it is important I know if you plan to participate. Details on these are forthcoming.
Please feel free to email me with any questions. dls6643@aol.com
Hope to see you in San Francisco!
Once again in partnership with Angelic Dreamz, we bring you our second Sandra Stillwell Presents Jamie-Show centerpiece. Created exclusively for Golden Gate Glamour, this ultra limited beauty is inspired by a 1950 Balenciaga couture design. She will be presented at Friday night's dinner, graciously hosted by Angelic Dreamz/Jamie-Show in honor of my 10th Anniversary Celebration!
I was privileged to meet the mega talented Jamie-Show team at IDEX this past February, and was immediately impressed by their warmth and enthusiasm. Angelic Dreamz has long been a special supporter and valued member of the doll community. It was my pleasure to collaborate with these two outstanding companies and I thank them for their generous support.
Just to update you all, Golden Gate Glamour is nearly sold out. So if you are on the fence about joining us for an unforgettable weekend, email me ASAP!
The hotel room block is extremely limited so I have been monitoring our numbers according to your input on the nights you plan to register at the hotel. June is a busy month in San Francisco. I can increase my room block now but may not be able to at a later date. It is extremely important that you touch base to let me know the nights you will be staying. It also helps to know if you will be sharing a room.
We have exciting tours planned for Thursday and Sunday you will not want to miss. Our tours are dependent on meeting a minimum number of attendees so it is important I know if you plan to participate. Details on these are forthcoming.
Please feel free to email me with any questions. dls6643@aol.com
Hope to see you in San Francisco!
Golden Gate Glamour!
Please mark your calendar and make plans to join us June 3-5 in San Francisco, at the Embassy Suites SFO Airport South, for Sandra Stillwell Presents: Golden Gate Glamour!
Limited to only 60 attendees, this intimate soiree will be a celebration of friends, dolls, tradition, and timeless couture in San Francisco, a destination widely known as "America's Favorite City"!
Golden Gate Glamour will pay tribute to the haute couture master Cristóbal Balenciaga, and the unparalleled legacy of his landmark career, as well as highlight San Francisco's rich fashion heritage, and explore the connection between the two.
Included in the convention registration, a trip to the De Young Museum in San Francisco's beautiful Golden Gate Park, where we will view Balenciaga and Spain, the fascinating exhibit highlighting Balenciaga's magnificent creations and exploring Spain's influence on his designs.
http://deyoung.famsf.org/deyoung/exhibitions/balenciaga-and-spain
Our souvenir will be a fabulous fashion gift set designed to fit your favorite 16" fashion doll. Inspired by Balenciaga's designs, the collection was created especially for this exciting event. Centerpiece dolls modeling stunning haute couture fashions will be showcased at each meal function. I believe you'll be as blown away as I am by the beauty of this collection! I can't wait to share it with everyone!
The registration fee will also include a desert reception and 3 meals, including a gala Saturday night banquet. We will also have illustrious guest speakers, interesting displays, table gifts, raffles, swap tables, and more surprises!
Registration:
The registration fee is only $360 if paid in full, by cash or check, by May 2nd. (After that date, the fee is $375). A $15 charge will be added to other payments options. A non refundable deposit of only $50 will reserve your spot for this very special event.
A $50 cancellation fee applies to all cancellations prior to May 2nd. After that date, no cancellations are allowed.
Companion registrations will be available if purchased with a full registration. Please contact me for details.
Please send payment for registration to: Sandra Stillwell 8305 Blue Lick Rd. Louisville, KY 40219
Please contact me if you need to pay by PayPal or make special arrangements.
At this time there are no absentee registrations.
Hotel:
Our convention hotel is the lovely Embassy SFO Airport/South San Francisco, located only 10 miles from downtown San Francisco! Each room is a spacious 2 room suite complete with refrigerator and microwave...perfect for room sales or socializing with dolly friends!
We will have a special code to make reservations in our group block, which will be forthcoming soon. Please do not contact the hotel or make reservations online until this is announced.
Our special group room rate is $119 plus tax. Our group will receive complimentary hotel parking.
The hotel offers complimentary WiFi and computers in their business office, and in room Internet access at a discounted rate.
The Embassy Suites offers a complimentary shuttle to shopping and eateries within a 3mile radius (based on availability), and an airport shuttle which runs every 35 minutes. BART conveniently travels directly from the airport to San Francisco and other suburbs.
The group rate is available from Monday, May 30, through Wednesday, June 8th (based on availability) for those who would like to come early or stay over to take advantage of the many fun sightseeing opportunities in the area. If you need rooms on other dates, please contact me directly.
I strongly encourage all attendees to stay at the Convention hotel for a complete "convention experience"! Besides all the fun and camaraderie those who don't stay at the hotel will miss out on, our room and food rates are based on our meeting a guaranteed minimum, and it is crucial I have your cooperation to meet that guarantee.
There are other great reasons to stay at the convention hotel....with our many planned activities, you'll find being onsite much more convenient, plus the Embassy Suites includes a fabulous cooked to order complimentary breakfast and manager's cocktail reception daily in their beautiful atrium.
Our room block is extremely limited. Though we are not yet ready for hotel reservations, it would help me greatly to know as soon as possible how many nights and what dates you are planning to stay, so I can increase the block if necessary. June is a busy time for the hotel and I may not have the opportunity to do so at a later date. Once the room block is sold out, reservations will only be taken on availability.
Airport and Flights:
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is serviced by all major airlines.
Oakland International Airport is also very convenient to the hotel. Both are directly connected to BART and Caltrain for travel to San Francisco or neighboring areas for sightseeing on your own.
When booking your flight, don't forget to allow a few extra days, if possible, to enjoy the multitude of tourist attractions and unique activities that San Francisco has to offer!
Tours:
I'm excited to say that Casey LaLonde, Joan Crawford's grandson, will again be joining us for convention this year... and, if all goes as hoped, we are planning a surprise "wrap party" on Sunday night to celebrate Sandra Stillwell Presents 10th Anniversary! An optional event, this exciting evening will follow a day of sightseeing in San Francisco. For a taste of San Francisco elegance, I am proposing that we begin the day with a delicious breakfast buffet in the glistening Garden Court at the opulent Palace Hotel.
Details are not available yet, but I am also planning a very interesting excursion on Thursday that all doll lovers, vintage fashionistas, and sewing enthusiasts will be sure to love!
If there is anything in particular you would like to see or do, now is the time to let me know!
Raffle Donations:
We will be having a raffle to help offset convention expenses. Donations of all sizes are greatly appreciated. If you would like to contribute to the raffle, please email me at dls6643@aol.com.
Please remember that this special event is extremely limited, so do not hesitate to register. If you plan to attend, please RSVP as soon as possible so I'll have an idea of how many to count on.
I hope you'll join me in San Francisco this June for an event to remember!
Limited to only 60 attendees, this intimate soiree will be a celebration of friends, dolls, tradition, and timeless couture in San Francisco, a destination widely known as "America's Favorite City"!
Golden Gate Glamour will pay tribute to the haute couture master Cristóbal Balenciaga, and the unparalleled legacy of his landmark career, as well as highlight San Francisco's rich fashion heritage, and explore the connection between the two.
Included in the convention registration, a trip to the De Young Museum in San Francisco's beautiful Golden Gate Park, where we will view Balenciaga and Spain, the fascinating exhibit highlighting Balenciaga's magnificent creations and exploring Spain's influence on his designs.
http://deyoung.famsf.org/deyoung/exhibitions/balenciaga-and-spain
Our souvenir will be a fabulous fashion gift set designed to fit your favorite 16" fashion doll. Inspired by Balenciaga's designs, the collection was created especially for this exciting event. Centerpiece dolls modeling stunning haute couture fashions will be showcased at each meal function. I believe you'll be as blown away as I am by the beauty of this collection! I can't wait to share it with everyone!
The registration fee will also include a desert reception and 3 meals, including a gala Saturday night banquet. We will also have illustrious guest speakers, interesting displays, table gifts, raffles, swap tables, and more surprises!
Registration:
The registration fee is only $360 if paid in full, by cash or check, by May 2nd. (After that date, the fee is $375). A $15 charge will be added to other payments options. A non refundable deposit of only $50 will reserve your spot for this very special event.
A $50 cancellation fee applies to all cancellations prior to May 2nd. After that date, no cancellations are allowed.
Companion registrations will be available if purchased with a full registration. Please contact me for details.
Please send payment for registration to: Sandra Stillwell 8305 Blue Lick Rd. Louisville, KY 40219
Please contact me if you need to pay by PayPal or make special arrangements.
At this time there are no absentee registrations.
Hotel:
Our convention hotel is the lovely Embassy SFO Airport/South San Francisco, located only 10 miles from downtown San Francisco! Each room is a spacious 2 room suite complete with refrigerator and microwave...perfect for room sales or socializing with dolly friends!
We will have a special code to make reservations in our group block, which will be forthcoming soon. Please do not contact the hotel or make reservations online until this is announced.
Our special group room rate is $119 plus tax. Our group will receive complimentary hotel parking.
The hotel offers complimentary WiFi and computers in their business office, and in room Internet access at a discounted rate.
The Embassy Suites offers a complimentary shuttle to shopping and eateries within a 3mile radius (based on availability), and an airport shuttle which runs every 35 minutes. BART conveniently travels directly from the airport to San Francisco and other suburbs.
The group rate is available from Monday, May 30, through Wednesday, June 8th (based on availability) for those who would like to come early or stay over to take advantage of the many fun sightseeing opportunities in the area. If you need rooms on other dates, please contact me directly.
I strongly encourage all attendees to stay at the Convention hotel for a complete "convention experience"! Besides all the fun and camaraderie those who don't stay at the hotel will miss out on, our room and food rates are based on our meeting a guaranteed minimum, and it is crucial I have your cooperation to meet that guarantee.
There are other great reasons to stay at the convention hotel....with our many planned activities, you'll find being onsite much more convenient, plus the Embassy Suites includes a fabulous cooked to order complimentary breakfast and manager's cocktail reception daily in their beautiful atrium.
Our room block is extremely limited. Though we are not yet ready for hotel reservations, it would help me greatly to know as soon as possible how many nights and what dates you are planning to stay, so I can increase the block if necessary. June is a busy time for the hotel and I may not have the opportunity to do so at a later date. Once the room block is sold out, reservations will only be taken on availability.
Airport and Flights:
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is serviced by all major airlines.
Oakland International Airport is also very convenient to the hotel. Both are directly connected to BART and Caltrain for travel to San Francisco or neighboring areas for sightseeing on your own.
When booking your flight, don't forget to allow a few extra days, if possible, to enjoy the multitude of tourist attractions and unique activities that San Francisco has to offer!
Tours:
I'm excited to say that Casey LaLonde, Joan Crawford's grandson, will again be joining us for convention this year... and, if all goes as hoped, we are planning a surprise "wrap party" on Sunday night to celebrate Sandra Stillwell Presents 10th Anniversary! An optional event, this exciting evening will follow a day of sightseeing in San Francisco. For a taste of San Francisco elegance, I am proposing that we begin the day with a delicious breakfast buffet in the glistening Garden Court at the opulent Palace Hotel.
Details are not available yet, but I am also planning a very interesting excursion on Thursday that all doll lovers, vintage fashionistas, and sewing enthusiasts will be sure to love!
If there is anything in particular you would like to see or do, now is the time to let me know!
Raffle Donations:
We will be having a raffle to help offset convention expenses. Donations of all sizes are greatly appreciated. If you would like to contribute to the raffle, please email me at dls6643@aol.com.
Please remember that this special event is extremely limited, so do not hesitate to register. If you plan to attend, please RSVP as soon as possible so I'll have an idea of how many to count on.
I hope you'll join me in San Francisco this June for an event to remember!
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