Vanity Fair Silicon Valley

Spring is here! April updates and Linx testimonials

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Last week, I hosted my first Link & Drink cocktail party in nearly 4 years and what a night it was! For those of you who have attended Link & Drinks in past years, you might recall they really exploded with popularity. Picture 500+ guests mingling, meeting, networking, and sparks flying for quite a few guests.

Despite the national and international attention my events received- especially after Vanity Fair featured Link & Drink, I realized they needed to evolve into something exclusive and intimate. As such, instead of blasting my database and letting guests invite a gaggle of their friends, I decided to limit my next mixer to 50 and have it be 100% private- including keeping the location on the DL, off social media, and no last names of guests given to any attendees for privacy.

I curated an elite list of Silicon Valley who’s who- from female entrepreneurs, financiers, techies, CEOs, etc. Some of my guests flew in from Southern California, Texas, and Washington DC and arrived with an open-mind, open-heart, and approachable disposition. Everyone wore cocktail attire- the women looked beyond spectacular in satin dresses and heels and the men looked dashing in sport coats and slacks.

Guests sipped exquisite cocktails, fine wines (Neyers chardonnay and Faust cabernet), French champagnes, and enjoy passed hors d’oeuvres after work and felt relaxed.  This was no “Millionaire Matchmaker” episode in the works with forced connections and a plethora of awkward, dramatic moments.  After the event ended, around 20 of us went to a restaurant next door for more bites, cocktails, and conversation. Laughter filled the room and new and old friends continued to have fun till nearly 11pm. Some guests

A handful of my guests shared the most lovely feedback and follow-ups on my mixer…

“I attended one of Linx Dating’s “Link and Drink” events and had a fantastic time. The venue, food and drinks were all great, and I had fascinating conversations with several really interesting people (men and women alike). The event was in a pretty small space, so it was very intimate, and the crowd seemed to be everything that Linx promises — beautiful, successful and jet setting (I met two people who had flown in just for the party). Amy is an amazing host who flittered around the party making introductions and making everyone feel comfortable and welcome….my only complaint is that they don’t happen more frequently!”

“Linx Dating is the crème-de-la-crème of matchmaking.  Amy goes above and beyond to make sure that every client and event is nothing short of exceptional. She thinks through every detail and is truly passionate about helping people find love. I’ve seen this first hand.  I appreciate Amy’s sincerity, but more importantly — honesty.  In an arena that is not so easy to navigate– especially in the digital age, Amy has this intuition that I can’t quite explain. A decade ago, I use to work for Amy; since then, I have been a fan of hers ever since.  It is heartening to see her bring together countless couples to find their happily ever after.” 

“I attended Amy’s recent Link and Drink event and had an amazing time. It was at a beautiful venue in San Francisco and was so tastefully put together. I drank sparkling rosé while mingling with other guests. Amy is particular about the clients she represents and is very well connected in the Silicon Valley. She is extremely professional and great at what she does. She’s told me about various success stories of her clients and you can tell that she’s so passionate about what she does, which is an important trait to have as a match maker. While I’m sure the business of matchmaking can be done in all different ways, Linx is extremely classy and tactful. I’d absolutely recommend Linx to anyone looking to get into the dating scene. You won’t be disappointed!”

 

“THANKS SO MUCH AMY!!!! So awesome seeing you. Super super appreciate the invite!!! Such awesome people. Was telling my sister about the event haha she says she’s down to be set up! And me too :))) Happy to help you source, have a ton of awesome single friends!! Thanks again! Met some cool people – grabbing drinks with (name removed for privacy) tomorrow.”

 

“The recent Link & Drink mixer Amy organized was a blast! I had such a great time! Amy did an amazing job. Venue was very cool. Participants were so different, but Amy helped to break the ice. Awesome networking, great connections! It was such a pleasure to be a part of it!”

 

“Great fun last night Amy, you put on a really lovely event.  Interesting group of people and fantastic venue. I did get (name removed for privacy) number and will keep you posted on progress with her.”

 

“Great seeing you on Thursday, and thanks again for inviting me to your event!  I had a good time meeting a bunch of folks there.  You surround yourself with a great network of people.”

 

“I’m the one who owes you another round of hearty thanks. Kudos for organizing a lovely event! I really enjoyed myself and so appreciated the opportunity to take part in the fun.”

 

“I met some really nice people who were surprisingly open about their love lives. In a good way — not a bad way. I am a believer in the idea of allowing love and chemistry to build, but I know not everyone feels that way.”

 

“Thank you so much for a fabulous evening on Thursday, I think it was a great event with lots of interaction going on:).  I personally enjoyed meeting different men and chatted with few that appeared quite interested.  I have cards from 5 men!”

 

“It was a fantastic evening….Please do let me know if you find yourself in Washington DC.”

 

“You always throw such a tasteful event. Sorry I couldn’t stay longer.  The drawbacks of being the boss….”

 

“I thought your event was super, the people classy, and it seemed that everyone enjoyed themselves, so that is success in itself. You are the master at introductions…you must have a memory of a steel trap:)”

 

If you would like to be considered as a guest at our summer cocktail soiree in the San Francisco Bay Area please send an inquiry to Amy Andersen at: amy@linxdating.com and tell her a bit about yourself. Happy Spring to all!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The 2014 Spring Fashion Report from the Runway

On Wednesday of this week, I attended a Spring Trend Presentation hosted by Neiman Marcus Stanford Center at the gorgeous Rosewood Sand Hill Hotel. It was an intimate setting with around 75 guests who enjoyed wine, culinary nibbles, mingling, followed by an informal presentation of spring trends for men and women.Neiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project Glimmer

Before the fashion show commenced, there was a nice presentation about a local Bay Area non-profit called Project Glimmer. Project Glimmer was started by a Silicon Valley venture capitalist Sonja Perkins. Simply put, this non-profit pulls donations of gifts (think costume jewelry you’ve had in your closet forever or perfumes) and distributes them to underprivileged women and girls in the Bay Area. In total, Project Glimmer has donated more than 45,000 gifts and are always looking for people to get involved.
Neiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project Glimmer
Here we see that DENIM pops with the right accessories, don’t be afraid to mix washes.
Neiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project Glimmer
Theory denim jacket:$335
Haute hippie white blouse:$295
Jbrand denim pant:$202
Cusp necklace 2 stone necklace :$75
Gucci denim handbag:$1230
Cusp earring:$48
Prada silver/beige wedge:$650
And another play on demin hereNeiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project Glimmer Neiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project Glimmer I need this seriously fabulous wrap skull scarf bracelet by Alexander McQueen! As you see, backpacks are everything this season as well. Effortless chic.Neiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project GlimmerNeiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project Glimmerphoto 1

White pants are a major trend for men for SPRING, Manolo only makes drivers for men no other styles, exclusive to NM. Men can wear pink too, you’ll see pops of orange this Spring too
Isaia blue/red plaid blazer:$3495
Nm white pocket square:$45
Isaia pink plaid button down:$450
Orange Neiman Marcus orang vneck cashmere:$195
Manolo blahnik teal driving shoe:$545
Zegna white pant:$375 Neiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project Glimmer
AMAZING beading on dress and shoes, it’s not about just one tone of pink it’s all shades of pink. And don’t take everything serious, pair Oscar with a bomber jacket and make a black tie dress fun with a less serious jacket! photo copy 7
Oscar de la renta floral dress:$5990
Rebecca Taylor white jacket:$495
Trend jewelry:$325
Valentino red swirl:$1195
Valentino red studded handbag:$3795Neiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project Glimmerphoto 5photo 2 copy 2
White with black, NOT black with white will be huge for SPRING
The row black leather bow tie top:$2490
Alexander McQueen white trouser:$785
Alexander McQueen white with black cuff:$345
Alexander McQueen black with white cuff:$345
Blush wrap around balenciaga bracelet:$195
Blush crossbody/clutch balenciaga clutch:$1095
Jimmy choo black/white pump:$595
When I saw those Jimmy Choo’s…I nearly jumped off my seat to grab them! Another play on white with black and not black with white.Neiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project Glimmerphoto 3Neiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project Glimmer

Anything Valentino and neon pink will always be so chic. PINK really makes white with black pop, the matching PINK shoes and bag make an egdy outfit look a bit sweeter and more approachable
The row black leather pant:$2290
The row black and white blouse:$750
Balenciaga sunnies:$675
Trend pearl necklace:$350
Cusp leather jacket:$368
Valentino pink handbag:$2195
Hot pink Valentino flat:$695Neiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project GlimmerNeiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project Glimmer

Very fresh and modern white with black, the Jimmy Choo heel with a bit of transparent pink and black leather jacket adds some interest to this demure dress.
Joie black leather: $928
Alexander wang black/white dress:$745
Proenza Schouler white clutch:$1675
Oscar de la renta earring:$350
Jimmy choo heel sandal:$895Neiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project GlimmerNeiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project Glimmerphoto copy 3

We’re not suppose to play favorites in fashion but I LOVE this Mary Katrantzou skirt, totally on trend with the artistic print trend.And very on trend for SHIRT CHIC (white button downs will be big in SPRING) with the white equipment blouse.The Charlotte Olympia pink heels are super sweet. Love that she calls the platform an island, what woman doesn’t want to float around on an island all day!
Mary katrantzou skirt:$1435
Equipment white blouse:$208
Jason wu blush pink leather jacket:$3990
Dior sunnies:$450
Saint Laurent gold clutch:$990
Cusp pink earring:$50
Cusp gold/green necklace:$50
Charlotte Olympia pink shoes:$945Neiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project GlimmerNeiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project Glimmer

Sydney’s look is a great play on pink and mixing of high end designers with CUSP items. I think this Stella McCartney printed top is adorable and easily dressed up with this L’agence jacket and gold rhinestone necklace from CUSP. I really love the white trousers from the ROW which keeps it all fresh- who knew those Olsen twins would grow up to be such great designers, but they have and we’re so happy to be carrying their line. I also think the Lanvin bag adds so much sophistication and who can resist a sparkle peep toe- especially when it’s a Louboutin!
Stella McCartney printed top:$385
Pink and white L’agence jacket:$450
The row white trouser:$450
Lanvin pink handbag:$1640
Cusp gold necklace:$95
Alexis bittar earring:$345
Loubotin sparkle peep toe:$845 Neiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project Glimmer Models striking a poseNeiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project GlimmerNeiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project GlimmerIt’s all about the sunglasses!Neiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project Glimmer LOVING these gorgeous accessories!Neiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project Glimmer Perfectly pretty for Spring!Neiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project GlimmerNeiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project GlimmerNeiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project Glimmer I got a lot of compliments and questions about my ensemble. What am I wearing? I have a pair of light demin 7 boyfriend “Josefina” skinny jeans on that I cuffed paired with some YSL nude pumps, a Zoe and Sam silk blouse, pink with gold scarf, a Louis Vuitton Alma GM color Rose Angelique (with monogram ball accessory), and my topper jacket is vintage. I bought the coat a year ago in the desert (Palm Desert area) at a little vintage store. It has this fabulous brass buckle that secures the coat together and as you can tell it is very delicate. There is no brand to this one-of-a-kind piece. Someone made it by hand…my guess in the 50’s. Some ladies at the fashion show came up to me and said they were taking bets on “how much” it was and if it was Valentino. To their complete shock, I shared it cost less than a sushi dinner for two (sans booze). Neiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation with Bentley SF and Rosweood Sand Hill to Benefit Project Glimmer Samantha Hartwell of Neiman Marcus Palo Alto, Sonja Perkins of Project Glimmer, and my dear friend Renee Coker….

A few NM Spring 2014 Must Have’s:
Artistic Prints, Pinks (from blush to anything but shy), the pink lip, summer booties, white & black (partners in style), demin on demin, backpacks, layered bracelets (all eyes on the wrist)

Twitter: @neimanmarcus @linxdating @GlimmerSF