Welcome to The California Edit, a twice-monthly roundup of the things that inspire me most right now. From beautiful interiors and coastal decor, to effortless California style and entertaining finds, this is where I share the best of Golden State living.
Today is the first day of a heat wave in San Diego county and they’re predicting some records will be broken. It’s supposed to be over 80 degrees at the beach which is hot for the coast. Looks like summer is on its way! Never mind that spring has barely begun!
We hosted a houseful of family and friends for my daughter’s engagement party last weekend and it was so fun. We were blessed with a gorgeous sunset which made for great photos. Having all three of my kids under one roof for a bit made my mom heart extremely happy too!
Today on the Edit, I’m sharing some classic coastal updates for your home and wardrobe. All of the things I feature here are items that I either own, are on my list to buy at some point, or that I love and thought that you might too.
Today’s Edit

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Inspiring Spaces
I like to start off each Edit with an inspiring space. This enclosed sunroom was designed by owner Leslie Martin of M + M Interior Design. If you’re a Homeworthy geek like I am, you are probably familiar with her home because her La Jolla home tour is one of their most-watched videos. I love the dark, cozy feeling this room has, along with the collected-over-time feel of this gallery wall. The room has a beachy vibe but with a darker, more earthy color palette, which is different and refreshing. I want to curl up in this sofa and read a book or watch a movie. Be sure to watch her home tour because the rest of her spaces are equally stunning.

If you become a fan of her design style (and I’m sure you will) be sure to check out her newest Homeworthy video where she gives fans a tour of her stunning office in La Jolla. Do you think she would let me work there for free?
For the Home
Surfboard Wall Art

I first spotted this piece on the Pottery Barn website (this particular design is no longer available) and was immediately drawn to the abstract wave design on the front of it. It reminds me of the famous work The Great Wave off Kanagawa by Katsushika Hokusai.

I’ve since learned it can also be found at Target, Wayfair, and Walmart, all of which offer it at a substantially lower price. It pays to shop around! I think it would be a fun piece for a narrow wall or above a bed. It’s on my list once I decide if I have a spot for it.
One to Follow
Speaking of comparison shopping, do you follow on whimsicalityshop on Instagram? Owner Elke Ridge of Elke Ridge Interior Design shares not only her beautiful New Jersey shop but also her tips and tricks for shopping for home furnishings. She has insider knowledge of the pricing strategies used by large corporations (which shall remain unnamed here) that make it hard for small businesses to compete. Her reels are interesting and informative. Definitely worth a follow!
A Whole-House Paint Palette on Etsy
Did you know you can buy paint palettes on Etsy? Where has this been all my life? This California Coastal palette by MillieHartInteriors is perfect for anyone who is looking to add some soothing coastal colors to their home. She offers at total of 157 different palettes (not all coastal) using either Benjamin Moore or Sherwin Williams paint colors. For someone who has tried out dozens of paint samples over the years, only to find out they’re the wrong color (ahem), these palettes are a lifesaver!

For the Table (literally!)
The Perfect Portable Picnic Table
We have owned a version of this portable table from Crate & Barrel for probably twenty years, starting way back when our kids were on a swim team. It’s made from wood and it rolls up for easy transport. I just came across it the other day and I have plans for a picnic at the beach soon. If you like to spend time outdoors at concerts, the beach, a park or sporting events, you need this little table!

California-Style Charcuterie
If you’re looking for a spread for your new picnic table, check out this Manhattan Fruitier California Cheese Gift Crate from Williams Sonoma. It’s filled with tasty snacks from Northern California, where artisan cheese makers abound. Pair it with a California wine and you’re all set! And please invite me!

Woven Coasters
These Artesia natural coasters from Crate & Barrel are simple and functional. If you love a coastal vibe, these are great. If we didn’t already own a collection of coasters, I would definitely get them!

Getting Dressed
Knit Tank and Skirt Set
I’ve lately been kind of obsessed with ZSupply brand. Their easy sets are perfect for warm summer days. I just bought this Emory Striped Muscle Tank and Skirt set and I love it! It’s made from a lightweight stretchy knit and the skirt is high-waisted enough that the tank still covers my midsection. (I’m tall and cropped tops can be very short on me.) It will pack well too, so I’m planning on bringing it with me to New Mexico and Maui later this spring.

A Summer Scent
Last fall I discovered the Maison Margiela REPLICA scent brand and I’m now devoted. I purchased one of their sample sets (you can read about that here) and I’ve been testing different scents for the past few months. Now I’m ready to take the plunge on my first full-size bottle and I’ve decided it will be their Beach Walk scent. It’s described as “A unisex, fresh perfume where radiant bergamot and ylang ylang blend with creamy coconut milk and soothing white musk to evoke memories of uplifting summer days spent on sandy beaches.” Sounds about perfect for summer!

Fun Summer Jewelry
Laguna Beach-based Gorjana jewelry brand has come out with some fun new designs this spring. This Paisley Bandana Long Necklace and matching Paisley Bandana Knot Bracelet are both on my list. The mix of fabric and metal is unique and perfectly laid-back.


Have you smelled the Gorjana signature Aura candle? It’s my hands-down favorite scented candle EVER. It’s scented with pink grapefruit, green palms, and palo santo and smells like heaven. I’ve burned through several over the last couple of years. I don’t know what I’m going to do if they ever stop making it.
Gorjana Candle

On My Radar
I’ve been a fan of therapist-turned-interior designer Anita Yokota for a while now, and she has a new book being released on April 28th. It’s called Grounded Living and it focuses on biophilic design – seeking connection with nature that promotes calm and well being. Can’t wait to read it! The book is available for pre-order now on Amazon. You can also follow her on Instagram @anitayokota.
California Moment

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This article includes affiliate links; if you click on a shopping link and make a purchase I may receive a commission. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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2 Responses
Great stuff here Susan. I can’t wait to dive deep into that La Jolla home tour. It’s totally calling my name. I love the shopwhimsicality- she always has great intel. We have that crate & barrel table too. lol. Love it and use it all the time. Congrats to your family! These are exciting times. XO- MJ
Thanks MJ! It’s a great little table. I forgot we had it! Lmk what you think of that home tour!