Japan or France? | Incense, Matcha & Orange Smoke

Inspired by the quiet Tokyo scenes in Rental Family, I created a serene, Japanese-influenced morning to begin the weekend. Gagaku and other court music filled the house (not entirely to Larry’s delight), drifting through soft trails of Tenjo Kyara incense from Kungyokudo. On the table sat the most beautiful flower arrangement Brennan had sent to my office to celebrate my new role. The gesture was as moving as the flowers themselves. It also sparked a familiar conversation between us. Japan later this year… or perhaps France. Where do you think we should go? Join me in this video as I: • Sniff the Rhubarbe Ecarlate shower gel from Hermes • Eat an exceptional pasta dish at John & Vinny’s on Fairfax • Admire ceramics by Astier de Villatte and glassware by Gabriela Seres at Nicky Kehoe • Cool off with an iced strawberry matcha latte • Point out a classic LA dingbat • Browse Durutti Column records at Dries Van Noten At your request, Brennan also unearthed photos from his past, including a remarkable run of annual school portraits. His knitwear archive alone deserves its own exhibition. Through every phase — snow pixie to TOMS Shoes creative designer painting a mural in El Salvador — he remains unmistakably Brennan. While in West Hollywood, I tried Orange Smoke at Dries Van Noten, composed by the brilliant Annick Menardo. I’ve followed her work ever since discovering Bois d’Argent by Dior years ago. Her signature blend of iris, myrrh, and musk left a permanent impression on me, and she remains one of my favorite perfumers working today. Who are your favorite perfumers? I always discover new names through you. Thank you for being here and for continuing this conversation with me. #JapanInspired #LosAngelesLife #CalmMorning #SlowLiving