Imagine yourself stepping into a classic English storybook… That’s exactly how I felt when I first arrived at the Emerald Iguana Inn, located near downtown Ojai, CA. Its concept will surely woo your hearts as you enter its fabled bed & breakfast intended for adults… I know because it sure did mine!
“Enchanting” best describes my take on this wonderful accommodation. If you love European and Spanish architecture fused in authentic California history like I do, then I guarantee that this place will captivate you as you immerse into its essence.
The storybook cottages and its interior reveal the story of a great relaxing getaway. One would certainly obtain peace and quiet here as the inn only allows adults to stay and exercises a 9:30 pm quiet time. The cottage I stayed in was no less spectacular as it was at one of their private two-bedroom 2 story cottage suite called the Lily Pad.
I felt pretty whimsical when I was walking around the cottage. The living room looked cozy as there was a gas-burning wood stove and high vaulted ceilings. The ambiance was certainly cheerful. I couldn’t help but smile. I just wanted to soak it all in!
The upscale cottage definitely has a charm of its own. It even had two private garden patios! One off one of the bedrooms, the other off the dining area. In the morning, I enjoyed a cup of coffee with freshly baked quiche and oatmeal from their daily breakfast spread.
The Emerald Iguanna Inn is truly a gem. I marveled at its unique handcrafted furniture. The dining room sofa chair adorned with tasteful and comfortable red pillows were a favorite of mine. The cottage even has a full kitchen. It was so comfortable that I felt right at home.
So, what’s my favorite spot? It’s got to be the luxurious whirlpool bathtub! Talk about unwinding! Distinctively situated outside the bathroom as part of the guest bedroom’s interior design, it was nice to enjoy the bath without staring at bathroom tiles. It was far too inviting for this lovely tub not to be used!
The charm continues on as the sweeping spiral staircase led me up to a spacious loft illuminated by natural sunlight. It was breathtaking waking up wrapped in soft bedsheets with the sun glancing through the open windows.
My all white dress kept me feminine and fresh during the warm summer of Ojai. I wore it during my stay so I can look the part as a modern storybook princess! Lol!
If you are petite, like me, here are Top 5 Easy Fashion Tips for Petites to make us look more elegant and ladylike:
1. Dress in one color. This is the easiest way to elongate our physique!
2. It’s all about the fit. Wear garments that fits you well. Semi-fitted outfits look better on petites than loose-fitting clothes.
3. Emphasize your waist. If you wear belts, keep it slim and match them to your outfit. Wide & contrasting belts cut the figure in half and break up the vertical illusion that we want to achieve.
4. Wear high heels. It’s the easiest way to add height. Choose quality brands for comfort over cheaply made footwear.
5. Stay away from over-sized handbags. It can overwhelm your look. Medium sized bags are the best choice in proportion to your petite frame.
Style Details
Dress :: ASOS Paprika Zip Front Bustier Dress with Cross Straps (similar)
Heels :: 3.1 Phillip Lim Cody d’Orsay (on sale! here)
Purse :: Yves Saint Laurent Muse Two
Jewelry :: 14k Yellow & Chocolate Gold Italian Twist Hoop Earrings by Prestige s.r.l.
14k Yellow Gold & Chocolate Enamel Dome Italian Cocktail Ring by Prestige s.r.l.
Living up to cottage chic, the staff left wine, a thoughtful card and a box of gourmet chocolates to greet us in our room which I thought was such a sweet gesture.
The King Bed at the loft was equally captivating and welcoming. I discovered that the alluring wall arts throughout the cottage are originals from renowned local Ojai artists! Some are even artworks from the inn’s family ancestors. All the artwork are for sale. I find it very cool that the inn is supporting local artists.
Truly a sweet retreat, my stay at the picturesque Lilypad at the Emerald Iguana Inn was without a doubt “joie de vivre”! Great for a girls weekend or a romantic getaway.