ALONG COMES MARY

Growing up I idolized Cher. Although she’s rather a peculiar choice for a child, I didn’t care. I adored her and all of her work. From her films to music and fashion my world was all about her. My biggest dream in life was to meet her. Not a tall order, right? As the years grew on, my fanaticism dwindled and there have since been several other women in music I love (ahem, Tori Amos). I often credit Cher as the reason I love strong women’s voices. Particularly in music.

Imagine how elated I was when I received an invite to attend Christmas Came Early. A holiday party to kick off the season and celebrate both Cher’s new album (appropriately titled Christmas) and be one of the first to try the newest flavors from Cherlato. Cher’s very own brand of her favorite thing, gelato. Yep. Earlier this year, she co-founded a gelato food truck with Gianpaolo Grazioli. Grazioli owns the world-famous Giapo ice cream kitchen in New Zealand. As a connoisseur of all things ice cream, it was love at first scoop when Cher entered his shop. Thus, a beautiful (and sweet) partnership was born.

Arriving to the event. (c) Mary Farah

Gingerbread gelato. (c) Mary Farah

The peppermint vanilla was my favorite. (c) Mary Farah

Cherlato and Christmas Comes Early

The soiree took place at the stunning Fairmont Miramar Hotel in Santa Monica. We were all in our holiday best as we strolled the gorgeous winter wonderland. There were Christmas trees, music, a hot cocoa bar, and plenty of “snow.” Cherlato’s holiday scoops were passed throughout the evening. With a margarita in one hand, I managed to maneuver several delectable cups of Cherlato in my other. While the gingerbread was not gluten-free, I was able to lick and savor a peppermint vanilla and dark chocolate raspberry. I could not get over how light, creamy, and simply delicious both were.

It’s no surprise it took Cher many years to bring her ice cream business to fruition. Cherlato is not an average gelato and I love the extra steps she and Gianpaolo have taken to create a sustainable, locally sourced treat. Ingredient sources are listed on their website. All are local to California. The dark chocolate from Burlingame is a personal Cher favorite and it’s clear to see why.

The Cherlato truck. (c) Mary Farah

The icon herself. (c) Mary Farah

Seeing the one and Only Cher

Through the glitz, glamor, and endless sweets, there was certainly a highlight to the evening. We were first introduced to Gianpaolo who shared what it was like to get a phone call from Cher to talk about ice cream. Then, yes, my friends. THE one and only “Dark Lady” graced the stage to chat with us and share how important Cherlato is to her. I was within 10 feet of her. Screaming and crying like a banshee. Although there was no opportunity for a meet and greet, I cannot beat this. “Baby Mary” would be so proud “Big Mary” at last saw her number one favorite artist.

Cherlato currently serves LA County via a food truck. Their schedule and locations can be found HERE. Cher’s new Christmas album has just been released and is everything you’d expect from her. Most songs are either original or not the “traditional” ones we hear far too often during December. Listen while devouring some Cherlato in LA this holiday season.