Jen Su

Life for me is always… a mad rush.  I travel hard. I run fast. Always in heels. So when a sudden opportunity came up to jet over to Hollywood for the premiere of “Judy” starring Renée Zellweger, I grabbed my little suitcase and off I flew.

Renée Zellweger on the red carpet for the Hollywood premiere of “Judy”, Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) Samuel Goldwyn Theater, Los Angeles

The Judy Garland biopic was released in US on September 27, and there’s been plenty of much-deserved Oscar buzz in Tinseltown around Zellweger’s transformation and outstanding performance in the film.

“Judy” Director Rupert Goold, Renée Zellweger, Jessie Buckley, and Turner Classic Movies Host Dave Karger

Watching the film with Renée and having a personal chat with her about it afterwards, was an unforgettable experience – and I must say, she’s truly one of the most down-to-earth, genuine celebs I’ve ever met in my career.

With Renée Zellweger at the Four Seasons Hotel, Los Angeles

We were treated to an exclusive private brunch and film talk by the stars of “Judy”, hosted by American Express, at the Four Seasons Hotel (300 Doheny Drive, Los Angeles) with plenty of mimosas and champagne to accompany our breakfast.

Seated with industry insiders Nate Williams, Nadia Semczuk, Deborah Katz Ditter, and Erica Breen at the Four Seasons “Judy” Film Brunch

Took an Uber back to my hotel, the SLS Hotel Beverly Hills (465 S. La Cienega Blvd, Beverly Hills).  Part of the Luxury Collection and Marriott Bonvoy portfolio, the SLS had an ultra-chic vibe with a mix of modern and Old Hollywood glam.

Breakfast at the SLS Beverly Hills

Delayed for an hour at check-in, Clarence at the desk politely apologized and promptly treated me to two glasses of complimentary champagne, which certainly helped to defuse frustration!  My room was spacious, with a giant HD plasma TV and marble rain shower. Towels were fluffy, linens were crisp, and included a fabulous garden terrace with the arrival of a mini red velvet cake and… more drinks. Being a Platinum Elite Ambassador does have its perks!

My Terrace Garden Suite at the SLS Hotel Beverly Hills

In the hotel, check out The Bazaar by José Andrés with plenty of Spanish-inspired tapas. My only suggestion would be that the hallways need better signage – I would literally be walking in circles for ages, before I could find the lifts. Other than that, the service was outstanding, food was divine, and I wish I could have stayed longer.

My room at the SLS Beverly Hills, Los Angeles
My suitcase holds a sequin suit, two cocktail dresses, 2 shirts, a pair of pants, shoes, underwear, socks, and mini toiletries. I roll everything and take only what I need.

It was then off to lunch with a talented musician friend of mine, Jane Wang, at a fabulous vegan eatery called Nic’s on Beverly (8265 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90048) The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with contemporary vintage décor, and absolutely fabulous food…that takes vegan to another level!

With Jane Wang at Nic’s on Beverly

We then walked over to Heath Ceramics (7525 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles) , another Insta-worthy heaven of ceramics, vases, tableware, furniture and more.

Jen Su browsing in Heath Ceramics, Los Angeles

Finally, it was over to Hollywood Boulevard and North Highland, to have a quick stroll through the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre (6925 Hollywood Blvd)

I wore a red sequin suit to the Hollywood premiere, and not only was it a breeze to pack, it was the most comfy outfit ever!)

To bid farewell to the City of Stars, it was coffee and lots of laughs at Tiago’s Coffee Bar and Kitchen (7080 Hollywood Blvd) with South African actor Greg Kriek (Netflix: “Inside Man: Most Wanted”, Netflix “Black Mirror”, “Maze Runner”, “The Serengeti Rules”) who is based in LA but heads back to SA this week for filming.

With South African actor Greg Kriek at Tiago Coffee Bar and Kitchen

And that’s my Hollywood in 48 hours!

 

 

 

 

 

 

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR