Let Them Have Cake

One of the ways I celebrated my newfound freedom was to attend Cake Plate boutique’s latest party. Located in Napa, I was never before able to make it up there after a full day’s work in Palo Alto. Fortunately for me, I was able to find a friend who works in San Francisco and lives in the East Bay who was game for a little adventure on a school night.

Note: if you live in the East Bay spending an evening in Napa is really easy and a great way to inject fun and spontaneity into your week. Coming from San Francisco, however, bridge traffic is pretty gnarly.

I first met Paige Smith and Lindsey Kroll, the sisters behind both the Cake Plate boutique and the CP by Cake Plate line, at a party I co-hosted for them this past spring.

(April; Me, Paige, Lindsay. Marcy Carmack of the Real Real is on the far right.)

(August; Paige, me, Lindsay.)

What I appreciate about them, and what extends to their parties – and their boutique – is how genuine they are. They are clearly passionate about what they do, and they truly care about their customer. They told me the story of how one of the dresses they designed came to be: originally created with sleeves, a customer came in and preferred it sleeveless. They changed the dress for her and then decided they liked it better that way too. After much pattern re-working they produced the sleeveless version for their spring line. How many times have you been out shopping and something’s not quite right, and the designer is there and changes it for you? That’s certainly never happened to me!

So when I finally had the chance to visit Cake Plate in Napa, I knew it would be a great experience. The boutique is cozy and very well edited. Within 5 minutes I found several pieces I wanted to take home immediately. If you live in San Francisco Napa is a bit of a trek if you start off during rush hour, but I highly recommend a trip to Cake Plate, whether on a week day or the weekend.

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Save the date: Fashion’s Night Out happens Thursday! Keep your calendar clear and check back soon for a comprehensive list of FNO events in San Francisco.