Cheryl Shops

When I was younger, long weekends meant short trips. I was constantly running off to Miami or Boston or upstate New York, and while I love traveling, I've also learned I need to take it easy. I've discovered something about myself as I get older, and that's the fact that I love to stay in the city on long weekends when everyone else is gone. (Conversely, I still like to take long weekend trips, but I take a day off of work and travel when not everyone else is doing it.) There's plenty of street parking, you can get reservations at hard-to-get-into restaurants, and as I've recently discovered, it's a great time to do a spa day. I have a few favorite spots in the city, but for Labor Day, decided to step it up and, on a friend's recommendation, visit the Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn.



In less than an hour door to door, I felt like I was transported to another world. The Fairmont Sonoma is tucked away on a Sonoma side street, and considering it was a three-day weekend, was quiet, serene, and not at all crowded. The grounds are landscaped beautifully, and there are all sorts of spots to plunk down with a glass of wine...or have an impromptu photo shoot.



The star of my spa outfit is this kimono, which I've worn over everything from a dress to a tee and denim shorts. The flow of it disguises a multitude of sins while giving you a boho-exotic vibe that says "I go to day spas regularly." I chose it, however, because it doubles as a pool cover-up. And because you can spin in it.



Speaking of pools, there are many at the Willow Stream Spa—three outdoor, two indoor (plus a steam room, sauna, and cold-water dunk)—and all feature mineral water, since the entire property sits on an ancient thermal mineral spring that flows from 1,100 feet below. Use of these pools is included with your spa treatment, or you can do a day pass. Either way, it makes for an incredibly relaxing day, and I'm with the Native Americans in believing that the waters do have magical healing powers.




OUTFIT DETAILS: Helena Quinn kimono || Everlane tee || Topshop MOTO denim mini || Quay Australia Odin Sunglasses || Cult Gaia Ark bag || Stella & Dot Setta necklace || Sam & Libby sandals (similar here on sale!)