Focus January 2015 - Home Issue

STYLE

FOOD

KIDS

ART

PERFORMANCE

FITNESS

BEVERLY HILLS | BRENTWOOD | WEST HOLLYWOOD | SANTA MONICA COMMUNITY POWERED

EVENTS

JANUARY 2015 focusmag.us

$4.95

LA HOME EDITOR

JACQUELINE GUNN OUR TOP STORIES OF 2014 INCLUDING EDITOR’S CHOICE

SHINING BRIGHT

EDEN SASSOON ACTRESS TURNED REALTOR

KATHRIN NICHOLSON

ANDREA SCHRODER

THE

HOME +FAMILY ISSUE

HOST & DIY EXPERT

TANYA MEMME

BRAVO’S MILLION DOLLAR STAR

HEATHER BILYEU

LISA MANSFIELD

Realtor, NRT’s Top 1,000 Sales Associates

310.481.4313

lisa.mansfield@sothebyshomes.com www.lisamansfield.com

Operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc.

BRENTWOOD BROKERAGE | 11911 SAN VICENTE BLVD SUITE 200 | LOS ANGELES | CA 90049

TESTIMONIAL

Top

2%

of Sales Associates Nationwide

“We are living in our DREAM HOME… thanks to Lisa...Perseverance, dedication, and unrelenting hard work are the qualities…needed in a real estate agent to achieve our high expectations… thanks to Lisa having all of these, we were able to purchase the home of our dreams. Lisa has been our agent for purchase and sale of our three (3) homes... As our family grew, and our needs changed, she was right there with us... Every home we purchased was ideal for our family for each stage in our lives, and we were always able to sell high and buy low. We knew what we wanted as an end-result, our dream home, and step-by-step, house-by-house, we were able to achieve that thanks to Lisa’s stellar business practices combined with… her recommendations.”

– Bea & Erik

DID YOU KNOW…?

“The National Association of Realtors’ most recent Existing Home Sales Report revealed… home sales were up… dramatically over last year...a minimum increase of at least 9.7%.” % Change in Sales from last year 9.7%

-6.0%

10.7%

16.2% 10%

12.4%

by Price range

(The KCM Crew)

$0-100k $100-250k $250-500k $500-750k $750-$1M

$1M+

…CALL ME TO DISCUSS! DIRECT: 310.481.4313 LISA MANSFIELD CELL: 310.993.2303 FOR SALE!!! FOR SALE!!!

FOR SALE!!!

1270 Granville Ave. #2 West Los Angeles 2 Beds+2 Baths Townhome Bright, “Artsy” Loft style WLAHomes.com Asking Price: $648,000

WHAT’S NEW...!

1270 Granville Ave #2 *For Sale!!!

1433 Barry Ave. #105 *In Escrow!!!

11363 Waterford St. *Just Sold!!!

11351 Albata St. *Just Sold!!!

1114 S. Alfred St. *Just Sold!!!

5951 Canterbury Dr. #16 *Just Sold!!!

2451 Cloverfield Blvd. *Just Sold!!!

11374 Homedale St. *Just Sold!!!

1905 Livonia Ave. *For Lease!!!

802 Washington Ave. *For Lease!!!

11350 Joffre St. *Just Leased!!!

Contact me to hear about my upcoming listings! – Lisa

Focus TV

focusmag.us/tv

Text focus to 313131 to watch any video

Shining Bright

One In A Million

Second Act

Home Talk

Andrea Schroder creates fragrances influenced by her grandmother’s poetry.

Million Dollar Listing star Heather Bilyeu talks about her life and work.

Realtor, Kathrin Nicholson talks about celebrity homes, trends and The Agency.

Six home tastemakers talk about current home trends and their favorite places to live in LA.

Setting The Scene

Balanced Blonde

Turkey Trot

Light Watkins

Jacqueline Gunn discusses her unique approach to selling homes.

The launch of Jordan Younger’s Balanced Blonde app at Equinox West LA.

Coverage of the annual 5k Thanksgiving run – Palisades Turkey Trot with Sandra Taylor

Light Watkins talks about and signs his new book The Inner Gym.

MOST POPULAR VIDEOS

#Sassoonway

Woman Of The Year

Hulu To Dr Drew

The Hamptons in LA

Eden Sassoon discusses Life and Loss in a candid interview for us.

Samara Wolpe wins The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Man & Woman of the Year on June, 1, 2014

Co-host of Dr Drew On Call and host of Pop Trigger on Hulu, Samantha Schacher’s ‘Day In A Life’.

Partners Trust and Shain Development showcase their project home in the Palisades with a White Party.

Golden Girl

Vegas in Hollywood

Dating Naked

Women Like Us

Jesse Golden talks about how she was suddenly struck down with arthritis when she was still in her twenties.

Vegas showman, Matt Goss, in Hollywood for one night to raise awareness for children’s charity, Both Ends Burning.

Reality show star Kristen Williams talks about why she went naked on national TV.

Catt Sadler and Linda Rendleman are on a mission to empower women, through the Women Like Us Foundation.

CONTRIBUTORS

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Tanya Memme Tanya enjoys inspiring others to make a house a home, through her DIY projects – exploring the latest trends in home fashions and sharing the hottest products for the home. She hosted two Emmy-nominated TV shows for 13 seasons. tanyamemme.com

Dana Adams Dana Adams has spent her life working on both sides of the lens.

With a few international campaigns running, Adams continues to push the front end of the lens. However, dubbed as a “Photographic Life Coach” her true passion resides in transforming Models into Role Models on the back end. loveinlalaland.com

Dawn McCoy Dawn McCoy is the founder and editor of Beauty Frosting.

A former makeup artist for Trish McEvoy, Bobbi Brown and Giorgio Armani and former personal shopper for Barbra Streisand. beautyfrosting.com

Danielle Cuccio Danielle is a celebrity private yoga instructor, and offers private yoga sessions customized to your individual needs.

Cuccio Yoga Somatology Private Yoga • Retreats • Workshops cucciosomatology.com

Sophie Jaffe A certified Raw Food Nutritionist and Chef.

She’s a member of the Yoga Alliance as an advanced teacher, and is a certified personal trainer. She became dissatisfied with the “one size fits all” model of detox regimens and created her own company Philosophie. thephilosophie.com

Marlyn Diaz Marlyn Diaz, an integrative nutritionist, speaker and agedefying healthy lifestyle expert, helps her clients eat better and age younger! holisticnutritionista.com

Rochelle Robinson Rochelle is an artist, writer, outdoor and fitness enthusiast, teacher and entrepreneur.

She has lived and worked in Los Angeles for over 20 years, and her blog is all about what’s hot and hip in this city that she loves. lalascoop.com

Melissa Curtin Melissa is the co-founder of influential LA blog La La Scoop and owner of Wear2Learn Tees, an Educator, Travel Writer, Nature Lover, Fitness Fein. lalascoop.com

Tali Marchefka Tali is a one-of-a-kind event stylist. She has over 8 years of experience planning fairytale weddings, themed celebrations, corporate events, holiday parties and charity events. She has a bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from UCLA and is in the process of getting her MBA. pretty-lil-details.com

Sally Colon-Petree Actress, singer and TV host, Sally and her husband, Stephen, started a production company called Dream On Productions. Her documentary ‘Women Like Us’ is set to be released in Spring 2015. dreamonprod.com

Kim Cahn Kim Cahn left her television producer job to be a full time mom to Olive (5) and Buster (1). She writes about their family activities on her blog. andrewjr.com

Christine Khuri Christine Khuri is a certified integrative nutrition and fitness coach. She specializes in assisting women transitioning through the aging process while maintaining their mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. christinekhuri.com

NOTE FROM THE TEAM

Community powered.

Editor Andrew Waldman andy@focusmag.us Staff Writer Felicia Waldman Staff Photographer Dana Adams Staff Videographer Sally Colon-Petree Publisher + Creative Director Mark Castellino mark@focusmag.us

Copyright 2014 by Focus Media Agency.

Focus (ISSN 2328-1359) is published 10 times per year. Please do not to reproduce any of the content without permission.

Subscription and distribution inquiries: promo@focusmag.us

ISSUE 15

We complete another year at the magazine with our Home themed issue. It’s a precursor to our new magazine LA Home, which we are excited to launch in Spring 2015. LA Home will highlight all the remarkably diverse architecture in Los Angeles, and we will talk to the designers and architects who shape our habitat.

This issue includes a recap of our favorite stories and videos of the year. We reprinted an edited version of the emotional and candid interview with Eden Sassoon, which we first printed in June 2014. There are other great stories which you may have missed during the year. Luckily, we archive them all online at focusmag.us/online-issue.

It’s a season for giving so please take a break from your busy lives. Well, we guess you’re doing that right now if you’re reading this, and think of people who are cold, hungry and homeless. Donate something you can do without or better still – give up an hour or two of your time to help those in need.

We are looking forward to a restful holiday but we will return with our February issue in 2015. Hurrah for a new year!

Happy Holidays!

The Focus Team

INSTAGRAM COMMENTS

@erical_274s I just loved being interviewed for @focus_magazine_ by an incredible @lipsticksister. Thank you for your words and helping me share my story. @edensassoon Andy is the most caring #man I’m truly blessed to have him in my life @focus_magazine_ I now have a life size brush it says #edenlovestory, since day1 we knew #twinspirits…

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Trending Place Mat

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Your table should always look hip and stylish.

Place mats should not be boring…they should be bold, beautiful, colorful and something that you want to leave out everyday. Giving a thoughtful gift that is personalized is something that people always remember!

Mattie Luxe started as an idea and has turned into a concept that I love. With over 35 designs and many color and personalization options, you can design exactly what you want. Be creative and have fun, the possibilities are endless!

Mattie Luxe mattieluxe.com

Doggie Nosh Pure Dog Food, a LA based Natural and Organic Dog Food Company, believes in giving dog owners ease and peace of mind by conveniently providing delicious gourmet foods for dogs to enjoy at mealtime, all while striving to give dogs a healthier lifestyle. With the rise in demand for organic and natural food for both humans and dogs, PURE “chefs” craft fresh, hand-made “doggydishes” in a variety of all-natural, organic, preservative and by-product free meals that are nutrient-packed, fully balanced by a vet nutritionist and visually appealing to the owner.

PURE Dog Food puredogfood.com

Favorite things we have seen this month...

Yello Jello

Work hard, play hard. Jelly Shots are an instant party from the Coolhaus icecream Co-Founder Freya Estreller. Craft cocktail flavors come in Old Fashioned, Meyer Lemon or Moscow Mule Jelly Shots. Your Holiday Party deserves a seriously fun upgrade. At select CA retailers.

Steak Frites

Ludlows Cocktails ludlowscocktails.com

Smile On The Inside

Meditation Teacher, Light Watkins’ easy-reading 30-day program in his new book “The Inner Gym” could be the key to a happier you – all in a $10, 108 page book! Watkins has travelled the world conducting workshops on finding happiness through meditation. His book offers simple exercises sure to make you smile!

Light Watkins @thedailymeditator theinnergym.com

A passion project of restaurateur Jacques Fiorentino, L’Assiette is a taste of Paris in West Hollywood where Francophiles and steak enthusiasts can experience the most iconic dish of France. In keeping with European tradition, L’Assiette utilizes the Coulotte Steak – a rarity in North American steakhouses – which maintains its tenderness and rich flavor during the 4-hour sous vide process without relying on a large amount of marbling. Served in two piping hot portions, the steak is quickly seared to form an outer crust and paired with L’Assiette’s 24-hour beef tallow pommes frites and secret housemade sauce.

L’Assiette lassiettesteakfrites.com

ONLY KIDDING

Kidstir offers monthly hands-on kits that educate kids in the kitchen. With a subscription priced at $20/month, each child receives a welcome kit which includes their very own cookbook binder, along with a couple of activities and kitchen tools to get them started. Each following month, a kit is sent with a scavenger hunt shopping list, three cooking projects that build into the pages of the binder, and kid-sized tools.

KIDSTIR kidstir.com

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TRENDING | 01/2015

KALOLOGIE 360 SPA

Kalologie 360 Spa in Brentwood has such a relaxing ambience, you will want to stay long after your custom 50-minute massage. There’s a reason why some of most loyal clients are Hollywood’s A-list celebs. Their treatments range from photo-facials, Botox, B12 shots, skin resurfacing, an infrared sauna to laser hair removal. They have four locations in LA. T: 310 442-9588 kalologie.com

BIKINI CLEANSE

An all-natural, easy to follow, 7-day cleanse system that will help you lose weight fast! It’s the perfect cleanse program if you have an island vacation, wedding or big event coming up fast. Everything you need to lose weight is in the box. It is portable for your busy lifestyle and requires no refrigeration.

Plus enjoy twomeals per day from your preapproved food list. No more starving! bikinicleanse.com

ORANGE THEORY

Like any theory, this one is backed by science.

The idea of Orangetheory is simple: a 60-minute workout designed to push you into the Orange Zone. This creates “Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption,” or EPOC. It’s what burns calories after your workout and gives you noticeable, lasting results with Orangetheory Fitness. The newest location is in Brentwood on San Vicente Boulevard. orangetheoryla.com

Resolution Time

A slide on wire canopy system that is ready to install out of the box. And because of its unique modular design, it can fit any space and be modified infinitely to meet your design and shade needs. Enhance your outdoor space and living experience. Infinity canopy provides extraordinary function, beauty and versatility that custom made systems, umbrellas and other outdoor shade systems can never match. infinitycanopy.com

Founded by Ashton Whited and Boyz II Men’s Shawn Stockman, Beatbike features a state of the art sound system to complement in-house DJs and live performances, as music is the unifying element of Beat Bike – and what sets it apart!

It’s a 4,500 sq. ft retreat. The fitness oasis offers supplementary personal strength training, private shower rooms and vanities, free wi-fi, lounge areas to kick back with friends, a juice bar to grab refreshments after class and an expansive outdoor patio to enjoy and unwind. beatbike.com

A round up of the newest fitness clubs to check out – just in time for your New Year resolutions!

SANDBOX FITNESS

Classes at Sandbox Fitness use the natural resistance of silica-free sand to maximize your workout. These are fun and challenging classes that will help you lose weight, build muscle, increase strength, and confuse your muscles.

Classes are offered in a 600 sq ft indoor sandbox and provide an intense workout while remaining gentle on your joints. (as seen on ABC’s Shark Tank). sandbox-fitness.com

UPRISE PILATES & ACUPUNCTURE

INFINITY CANOPY

BEAT BIKE

Uprise is a uniquely integrated wellness center combining the benefits of Pilates and Acupuncture. A modern day pioneer, it is the only studio in LA to integrate The Tower into its façade. The Tower consists of springs, Pilates mat work, and resisted bars. It is a method that promotes muscle toning, core strengthening, and coordination of mind and body. Designed to work the entire body, The Tower utilizes various movements that sculpt the entire body.

Uprise is marginally unlike that of any other studio. It is where Acupuncture and Pilates co-exist harmoniously, and it takes a distinct approach to achieving the upmost psychological and physiological vigor. uprisewellness.com

OAK FITNESS

Oak Fitness club is an intimate and exclusive experience.

Courses are taught by the club’s specialized trainers, including their unique 25-minute, high-intensity “Burn” sessions and a variety of Pilates options.

Located in central Beverly Hills, it’s a quiet, relaxed environment for effective fitness without the crowds. oakfitnessclub.com

focusmag.us 7

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10/28 /2014

WOMAN TO WOMAN

Focus Magazine and Women Like Us Foundation sincerely thank all of our wonderful friends who made the Woman to Woman event such a success!

Photography: Captureazzi capturepod.com focusmag.us 9

A Good Hair Day Celebrity hair stylist Denise Rossouwruses her Hollywood on-set expertise to glam up your hair experience.

Change Color Add Length Change Your Look Change Your Life

A GOOD HAIR DAY | Denise Rossouw

T

he first thing you notice about Denise Rossouw is her hair. You can’t help that, because it is her business. The second thing however, is her charming and beautifully laidback manner. She’s like a lifestyle expert, aiming to improve your confidence and boost your ego.

Denise Rossouw doesn’t sell wigs.

She sells hair enhancements, and if you don’t know the difference, she will tell you that she has experience of both.

She started as a stylist for the entertainment industry – she still Denise Rossouw has a few notable celebrities on her books. Denise realized that she could have more control with the extensions she designed for them on set, than with the traditional wigs which were in vogue.

“I learned that as long as a woman has hair, I could create a much more natural and undetectable look by incorporating a piece into her existing hair.”

Twenty five years later, she has her own studio, Top Secret Haircessory, and she is an expert at creating a whole range of different designs in any style you could imagine. There are 7 different lengths in 27 colors, so go figure the number of combinations you could create with that.

They are revolutionary but very simple, 4-clip attachment hair pieces in various styles, which can be applied in a matter of seconds.

Lightweight and breathable, they are undetectable from even a few inches away.

Why, because they are made from human hair – mostly from India and Russia, on which she uses an Italian color line with low ammonia for custom coloring. It lasts for up to a year but she recommends you wash it once a month. Denise has even created her own shampoo, by working with a specialist to combine the two best shampoos reviewed on The Today Show.

EFFORTLESSLY TIMELESS

Start with a consultation at her very fun studio. You can discuss volume, length, bangs! – and she will try different pieces on you until you are happy with the look.

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

Who are her clients? Two different types – the man or woman who suffers from a medical condition, or who has thinning hair due to aging. Someone for whom hair transplants haven’t worked. The other, is the woman who wants a quick, youthful makeover for less than the cost of a facelift. ‘Effortlessly timeless’ is the tagline she likes to use. You can wear them anywhere – for sports, without worrying about the wind, to sleep and you can even swim in them.

Although, it’s the chlorine that will cause them harm, so that’s not recommended.

TECHNOLOGY

No technological slouch, Denise has the online business all wrapped up. Her pieces are available online 24/7.

You can even email your photos, along with some simple measurements front side and back – for an online consultation, if you are not close to her studio. There are salons in almost every state which carry her hair pieces, and stylists in those salons who have been educated in using them.

Prices for her hairpieces start at $250 but Denise says you actually save money because you don’t have to get your roots touched up as often! Just The Top Secret Haircessory studio pop one of her pieces on, and is warm, inviting and has a fun off you go. vibe and decor.

Has she changed people’s lives?

Denise likes to think so. “When a woman can just pop on some hair in the morning or before she goes out in the evening, it changes everything about the way she feels about herself.”

For better hair days, set up a free consultation with Denise by visiting her studio, or just give her a call.

AFTER

Top Secret Haircessory 12436 Ventura Boulevard Studio City, CA 91604 T: 844 556-8111 topsecrethair.com

focusmag.us 11

Queen Of The Glen Long time Brentwood Glen resident, Lisa Mansfield reigns supreme as the predominant REALTOR® in the neighborhood where she grew up, and which she watched evolve over 25 years.

T

here’s a small neighborhood on the Westside of LA which has a certain storybook charm and which contains a microcosm of family life. It’s called Brentwood Glen. If you are driving through this contained enclave, tucked between Westwood and Brentwood, you will see cute houses with manicured lawns and young families taking an evening stroll together, kids riding bikes in the street and people leisurely walking their dogs.

You might also notice the vast number of Sotheby’s “For Sale”, and “Sold” signs with the name Lisa Mansfield on them because, although she represents listings across most of the Westside, she is warmly referred to as “Queen of the Glen.”

Most everyone you meet will tell you that. Her family moved into Brentwood Glen when she was 8 years old, and she lived in a corner house on the northernmost block. She was a babysitter for the neighbors, whom she now represents when they move properties.

“At 8 years old, I was reading House & Garden and Architectural Digest and I was obsessed with them. As I grew up I knew I wanted to be a piece of that world - a career woman who incorporated a degree of independence, intelligence, business savvy and skill in sales and negotiating with my passion for people. Creating ongoing meaningful relationships of service, friendship and trust is my greatest inspiration! I feel so lucky to truly be able to say that I Love what I do. I am often told how apparent this is by my clients.”

Fast forward a few years and Lisa left home, graduated from UCSB, travelled around Europe and moved back to the Glen – renting a place she later listed for sale. She became a Realtor while still in her early twenties, and she knocked on doors in the neighborhood till she got her listing. “I was as persistent as you get and never gave up.”

“I really focused on the personal aspect, where it was a very real down-to-earth, caring connection. It was more than just ‘I want to sell this house’”. The rest is history and now most all of the families in the Glen know to call Lisa if they are selling their home. It’s as natural as it is instinctive.

Her face is well known from the annual community events.

Each Spring there’s a huge block party – everyone in the neighborhood is invited to commune and enjoy an afternoon of fun, games, free food and drinks. Lisa provides the horse rides and bouncy castles for the young ones. She also participates in the bi-yearly, community-wide garage sale. And, naturally, she’s Vice President of the Garden Club, which has been a tradition for the last 20 years.

Lisa tells me she has a Masters Degree in spiritual psychology. And I’m not surprised because a large part of what she does as a realtor is hold people’s hands, alleviate their stress and make the whole process of buying and selling houses

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QUEEN OF THE GLEN | Lisa Mansfield

as effortless as she has made it become.

Twenty five years is a long time to perfect her craft, and reading testimonials from her clients (on her website) makes a great bible for wannabe realtors or those just starting in the business.

CONSISTENCY What’s her secret? “Consistency,” she says.

“I set a path for myself and I followed it through good and bad. Whether the market has been up or tanked, I’ve had the highest volume of consistency. I did over 40 transactions in the last year. I also have an amazing team - all of the experience, expertise and assistance that comes with hiring ‘Lisa Mansfield’ has created a happy and satisfied client base. In fact, their referrals make up a large part of my business - I am proud of this, and most importantly, grateful.”

She holds an NRT award for consistently being in the top 2% of (nearly 50,000) brokers in “I facilitate one of the nation. the most meaningful She is transitions of people’s relentless in her goal lives.” to make everyone know she is available for them to provide the level of service she is known for when they are ready to buy or sell their homes. She knows the neighborhood, she has watched countless families pass through, and even helped them transition to new homes in the neighborhood, as their families got bigger, or smaller.

There was a time last year when she had a hand in 8 transactions...all on the same quarter mile street in Brentwood Glen - Homedale Street. She moved one growing family directly across the road to a larger house. Another woman, now in her 80s and a lifelong resident in the Glen, relocated out of LA to be with her family.

A young couple with one child moved in to their first home. These are starter homes in the 90049 zip code, which afford young families the enjoyment of everything Brentwood has to offer. It’s an amazing

diorama of family life, captured in one moment in time, on one street. “I facilitate one of the most meaningful transitions of people’s lives”, Lisa says.

And of course the community aspect helps. Walk your dog, watch your kids ride their bikes or scooters and play football in the street. “Trick or Treat “ together with families at Halloween. Start your kids at the neighborhood preschool – Berwick Buddies – on Berwick Street. There’s the church hall for services and evening events. New residents receive a welcome pack telling them all about the community events. There are weekly email updates from the Brentwood Glen Association, and there is a local neighborhood website, which Lisa helped create, called Okolia – goods and services recommended by neighbors helping neighbors.

Don’t get me wrong. It’s not quite ‘picture –perfect’ Norman Rockwell but it is a close-knit neighborhood… and a bit of a welcome throw-back to “the good ‘ol days”. Lisa knows this place like home… both Hers…and Yours. Lisa is in her element as the go to person for anything related to home buying or selling since she knows the community so well.

If you ever take that short cut across Sunset and find yourself in Brentwood Glen, drive slowly, and not just for the safety of the kids playing but also just to soak in the quaint atmosphere of this cozy community. And oh, if you are looking to buy here, look out for those Sotheby’s Lisa Mansfield “For Sale” signs… even talk to a friendly Brentwood Glen neighbor – they will be almost certain to know her. Or you could go by her well-earned reputation of over 25 years as…“Queen of the Glen”.

IN BRIEF What do you do to relax?

Balance is important to me. All the energy that I put out has to be replenished. Yoga is my passion. Santa Monica Yoga for 15 years. 2 yoga retreats every year for the last 10 years. Pilates twice a week. Travel is my biggest passion. Walks on the beach.

Books – I do a lot of reading. Spiritual books, psychology, personal growth. I love the theatre and family time.

Favorite restaurants: Tavern, Upper West and Susanne’s Cuisine in Ojai.

What do you do to go the extra mile?

I work with people on the prepping during the pre-listing period. Getting their house and their life ready for the listing. Decorating and painting. Way more than just staging.

Preparing them for their move. Oh you’re moving to Portland, let me hook you up with a Portland agent. I spend hours with people and they say to me you should be a therapist in addition to being a realtor.

The Team: I have a great team – one person who has worked with me for 10 years, 3 other members who support me with marketing. People stay with me for a long time. My sign guy, 8 years. I guess no other realtor could say that.

Tagline: “Passion for Excellence”. The marketing, the presenting of the properties, the treatment of the client – it is above average and above ordinary on every level.

Lisa Mansfield 11911 San Vicente Blvd, Suite 200 Los Angeles, CA 90049 Direct: (310) 481-4313 Email: lisa.mansfield@sothebyshomes.com lisamansfield.com brentwoodglen.com

focusmag.us 13

A visit to the very English home of Victoria Tennant designed by the equally British interior designer and star of Million Dollar Decorators, Kathryn M. Ireland.

Bel Air Tenant

E

nglish film and television actress, Victoria Tennant, has listed her mansion in Bel Air at $5.995 million.

Formerly married to Steve Martin she is best known for her role in the movie “L.A. Story” and the 1983 TV mini-series “Winds of War”. Victoria recently published a book about her ballerina mother, Irina Baronova, painstakingly compiling it from mementos and boxes of photographs she found after her mother passed away.

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Originally built in the late 1940s, the house sits behind gates and is at the flat base of a canyon slope. Features of the house are the library, lined on three walls with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, with french doors opening out to a paved pergola covered area and pool. The cozy family friendly house was decorated by fellow Brit, Kathryn Ireland of Bravo’s Million Dollar Decorators fame.

900 Stone Canyon Dr 5B | 6 BA $5,995,000 Jade Mills Coldwell Banker Previews T: 310 285-7508 homes@jademills.com Juliette Hohnen Hilton & Hyland T: 310 278-3311 juliettehohnen@gmail.com

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ONE IN A MILLION | Heather Bilyeu

One In A Million

Star of Bravo’s Million Dollar Listing, Heather Bilyeu leads the charge among the new breed of young, successful brokers in LA

W

ITH 10 years experience, Heather Bilyeu has been involved in over $300 million of real estate transactions. She stars in Bravo’s hit reality series Million Dollar Listing, which follows the most buzzed-about real estate gurus of Los Angeles’ high-end real estate. The show airs in over 250 countries year round, averaging 1.6 million viewers per episode.

On becoming a realtor: I was born and raised in Las Vegas. At 17 years old, my mom encouraged me to get my license and I started selling homes, moving to LA when the market crashed in Las Vegas in 2008.

To get the license I had to take a 5 day crash course and that was it, however the only way to know real estate is from experience.

About 8 years ago, I moved to LA and became an assistant to a very high powered broker in Beverly Hills – so that I could learn the ins and outs of LA real estate.

On Listings: I specialize in high end homes from $1- $5 million, primarily from the Sunset Strip to the Hollywood Hills area, but I have sold homes from Downtown to Venice. I don’t say ‘no’ to anyone who wants to engage me as a broker, because if I don’t know the area, I will get the help I need from someone on my team.

Text focus to 313131 to watch Heather’s interview. focusmag.us/tv/heatherbilyeu

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On Bravo: I wanted to work for someone who specialized in beachside properties. I was able to get a position with Madison Hildebrand, who had been on the first season of Bravo’s Million Dollar Listing. Six months after I had been working with him, we found out they were doing a second season. I asked not to be on camera.

They said that was fine, but all of a sudden they started to tie me into the storyline – which slowly became a recurring role. Then I met my fiance, Josh Altman, who was new on the show, and Bravo couldn’t have planned it any better...We are engaged now and planning a family.

I have done 5 seasons so far.

Heather with fiance and fellow Million Dollar Listing presenter, Josh Altman.

Current position: I worked for Madison for 3 years. I was handling all the facets of brokerage and was essentially a real estate agent. I decided to leap out on my own and I joined Hilton and Hyland. I am now working with the Altman brothers and doing the TV show as well.

On future plans: My fiance and brother-in-law work together and we are growing our team, which now stands at 8 agents. We are planning on opening more offices on both the East and West coasts.

On other interests: In addition to real estate, I am a motivational speaker for real estate professionals and entrepreneurs – females in particular. I get a lot of inquiries from women, wanting to know how I broke into the business.

IN BRIEF Most valuable room in the house for resale: Kitchen Best gadget to add prior to selling a house: Nest Best neighborhood for value: Bird streets in the Hollywood Hills Most up-and-coming neighborhood: Carthay Circle Most expensive house you ever sold: $8.99 million Least expensive house you ever sold: $180,000 Fastest you have ever sold a home: 1 day on market

Heather Bilyeu heatherbilyeu.com

instagram.com/heatherbilyeu

SETTING THE SCENE | 01/2015

Setting The Scene Helpful tips for selling your home from Jacqueline Gunn, star associate at Partners Trust and the Editor of LA Home.

When asked what makes me unique as a Realtor, I immediately know my value – I make the complicated look simple.

What does that mean exactly? Earlier this year, I was interviewed on the very same subject.

You can view the video accompanying this article for a detailed look at what makes my approach so special. I’ll give you a hint… It has a lot to do with me, my team and my keen design eye.

The process of selling a home begins with getting market ready. My foolproof way to sell a home quickly is as follows: real buyers. That means when your home comes on the market these agents will already have shared your beautiful, well-priced home with their buyers. The more buzz you can create, the more interested parties you will have. Congratulations!! You just put yourself in the BEST position possible. . . You may be in for a multiple offer situation.

2 1

PRICE AT MARKET VALUE OR SLIGHTLY UNDER TO GENERATE MULTIPLE OFFERS. Resist the urge to not believe comps. If a Real Estate Agent can’t justify the price of your home you will sit on the market. And the more days on market you have on the MLS the more of a stigma your home develops. BE REALISTIC. Know your worth and strategize with your agent. Be aggressive. Get a broker price opinion to make you feel better. Yes, we do this! Your agent should be well networked and liked in the community. A collaborative agent can bring a few Realtors from different agencies, who are area specific experts in your neighborhood, to your home. Together, they can chat about the potential flaws of your home prior to bringing it on the market. Also, these agents will all give an estimate on your home’s value. This process benefits you in two ways.

One, you know what price the market is dictating. And two, you’ve just had the top brokers in your area through, who have

DE-CLUTTER – Even your drawers!! Buyers will open drawers. You don’t want to be caught off guard when someone stumbles upon your checkbooks and all of a sudden you discover you’ve just purchased a new Rolex. Or, worse .. Someone finds grandma’s jewels and makes a run for it. Keep things clean, simple.

Nothing on counters. If you have to, I suggest renting a storage locker or a POD.

3

REMOVE FAMILY PHOTOS - While meaningful to you, these only distract. It essentially removes the potential buyer from envisioning him/ herself in the home. Also, do you really want strangers to know where you live or that you are selling a home and potentially making A LOT of money?

4

REFRESH YOUR HOME – Eliminate signs of wear and tear. You’ll be competing against new construction so you’ll want to bring your “A” game.

Small things like swapping out dated light switches for new fittings can make your home look current. Similarly, swapping out your old thermostat for a new LED design can take you from 1960 to 2014 for just $50. Hire a painter to paint your walls white.

Buyers need to see LITERALLY a blank canvas… So give it to them.

Bold colors and patterns on walls

only make rooms look smaller.

White tricks the eye into thinking a room is larger than it really is .. And, it will be loads brighter!

Buyers tend to want homes that are “light and bright.” Remove window screens and clean your windows – let in unfiltered light.

And, definitely refresh all your thresholds. Thresholds are the life line of your home. They tell you just how worn out a home is. DO - Buff floors. Or spot treat floors.

Did you know you can feather wood floors if a certain section is damaged you don’t have to replace the whole thing?!? Which brings me to my next point, - DO - fix anything that can come up in a general home inspection report.

If you had a leak in your roof that you fixed but you neglected to take care of the nasty little ring on your ceiling.. now is the time to paint. Buyers will RED flag it and put in an offer that is lower thinking they’ll have to do work…

That goes for settlement cracks.

It’s natural for a home to settle a bit each year. No home is exempt from settling. So, do your best to fix those. Uneducated buyers will definitely see cracks as a sign the home is in disrepair.

5

STAGE YOUR HOME!! – Your home is designed specifically to your personal tastes. To open up your buyer pool you have to put the ego aside. You have to ask yourself.

Does this enhance my home?

Is my furniture too big or too small? Is it too colorful? Is it too specific in style? You have to filter your furniture choices to muted colors (white preferably for couches) and a clean soft palette on the walls. Keep it simple. I use white paint on the walls.

Currently, transitional furniture sells homes in LA – furniture that is both modern and traditional at

Jacqueline Gunn with Focus magazine editor Andy Waldman, publicizng the new LA Home magazine the same time. And, a minimal approach is key. If I get a bit more granular, you really have to know the trends in your neighborhood.

If you’re in Silverlake a more eclectic aesthetic reigns, and you can get away with bold patterns and textures. You may find you can partially stage your home and save money. In the Palisades, keep to the East Coast, traditional style. So you may find you just need to swap grandma’s sitting chair for another chair and get some minimal artwork and you’re set! On the note of artwork - You don’t want to offend anyone so please …no religious references. After reading this hopefully you’re not asking Does staging my home mean I have bad taste? No… gosh no!!

It means it’s perfectly suited for your everyday life and functions exactly as you need it. ** Rule #1 in selling real estate** don’t be too specific when selling…

An agent asking you to stage your home means, your only flaw in your design is that it’s just a bit too specific to you. I had a stager once put a piece of furniture strategically so as to mitigate the glare of a building into the home I was selling. We created a whole curtain scheme on a balcony once, to privatize the balcony from the neighbor’s stares. Stagers actually make you more money. So, don’t be alarmed when an agent discusses staging because they are there to help you make more money. If you’re priced appropriately those monthly fees won’t tick on. You’ll sell relatively quickly and once you remove contingencies from the sale - you can remove the furniture.

That’s my 5 step plan for sellers.

Follow it, and you’ll see the results. I promise.

C

focusmag.us 17

SETTING THE SCENE | Jacqueline Gunn

B I handle the whole process for my clients. It’s called “The

Mini Flip.” And, I do it on a budget with my own team who I’ve been working with 3 years. It’s extremely effective and successful. Most clients see about at least an 8% return on their investment.

I guess at the end of the day, I’m not just a real estate agent. I’m a consultant. In fact, I’ve become quite specialized in working with builders and flippers – for many I’ve become their tastemaker. They run all their design decisions by me.

I help them source products etc. I’m very hands on. I know that the quality of the build they produce will directly affect how long the property stays on the market. I’m a business woman. The goal isn’t for me to sell a home as fast as I can and at the highest price possible, to allow for maximum profit.

So the extra work I put in with sellers and developers is worth it to me.

So far this year I’ve sold and purchased 27 homes and I’m hoping to hit 30 by Jan. 1. I’ve been doing this for 4 years. So you can imagine all the scenarios I’ve seen. I even put my money where my mouth is and invest in flips. As my success grows, I’ve made it a goal to support others. In 2015, in addition to donating to friend’s charities, I plan to donate 3% of what I earn to a charity of my client’s choice.

My journey has been littered with people who believed in me and encouraged me. I want others to be encouraged and empowered. A goal of mine one day, is to start a fund to support Real Estate Education for those that can’t afford books. Because, I was that girl struggling to afford the simple pleasure of education to better my earning power and help me succeed.

You can learn more about me and real estate in Los Angeles by visiting jacquelinegunn.com.

I’m also on Instagram – @jacgunn

Alexandra Pfeifer The Los Angeles residential real estate market is arguably amongst the most complicated and competitive of all upscale American urban regions. Agents representing clients and properties must be market savvy to the extreme, possess superior negotiating skills and always find the balance between patience, pressure and aggressive action. Alexandra Pfeifer exemplifies these qualities.

A Los Angeles native and 4th generation member of a Westside family, Pfeifer was raised in Beverly Hills and Brentwood and attended The Buckley School, The Marlborough School, and graduated from USC with a degree in Economics. Having spent all of her life in Los Angeles, Alexandra’s vast knowledge of the city and what is has to offer is unparalleled. Specializing in representing clients and properties in the communities of Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Brentwood, and Bel Air, Pfeifer deals with the demands and desires of clients from all different backgrounds. From families looking for their first homes, to entertainment industry magnates, entrepreneurs in business and professionals requiring total service along with unwavering tenacity, accuracy, and diligence; Alexandra is known for her ability to understand and meet her clients needs. Combined with her unwavering performance under pressure, and deep rooted knowledge of the local real estate market, achieving the desired goals of her clients while maintaining a positive rapport with her colleagues is a top priority.

Berkshire Hathaway Home Services T: 310 650-3540 | alexandra@alexandrapfeifer.com alexandrapfeifer.com

Nate Smith

Jacqueline Gunn T: 323 842-2527 jacqueline@jacquelinegunn.com

Text focus to 313131 to watch the Jacqueline’s interview. focusmag.us/tv/jacquelinegunn 18 FOCUS | J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 5

A native of Pennsylvania, Nate grew up in a real estate family where he learned the value of hard work, integrity and commitment to excellence at an early age.

Nate graduated with honors from the University of Miami School of Business, receiving a B.B.A. in Finance with an emphasis in Real Estate Investment. While there, Nate played football for arguably the greatest team in college football history and competed in back-to-back national championship games. Nate has now partnered with the most dynamic powerhouse in luxury real estate, The Altman Brothers at Hilton & Hyland and Christie’s International and specializes in representing Buyers and Sellers in the Westside Los Angeles communities including Beverly Hills, Sunset Strip, Brentwood, Bel Air, Hollywood Hills, Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Pacific Palisades and Malibu.

With 10 years experience in high-end sales and a passion for customer service, Nate is ready to exceed your expectations in all of your real estate endeavors.

Hilton & Hyland T: 310) 367 0539 | nate@thealtmanbrothers.com thealtmanbrothers.com

REALTOR PROFILES | 01/2015

Monty Beisel

Davina O’Donnell

Monty Beisel has teamed up with Hilton & Hyland after 10 years of playing in the National Football League as a linebacker for the Kansas City Chiefs, New England Patriots and Arizona Cardinals. Having played at the highest level in professional sports, including Super Bowl XLIII, Monty brings a unique perspective and knowledge to working with professional athletes, entertainers and their families.

Dedicated to building long-term relationships, Monty is committed to delivering the highest level of personalized service to his clients, built on the fundamental principles of professionalism, trust, reliability, integrity and attention to detail.

Monty’s passion for architecture, interior design and luxury real estate has lead him to design, develop and own several properties in the Los Angeles area. Monty has made Los Angeles his home base for the past 13 years and his investment partnerships are active in acquiring large multiresidential properties across Southern California.

Monty played football at Kansas State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing and Mass Communications. He enjoys local philanthropic work, including the SuiteKIDS Foundation and A Better LA.

While Davina O’Donnell was a student at UCLA she knew she had a passion for real estate. In her spare time, she visited open houses and read real estate trade publications. As she studied for her final exams, she also took the California real estate exam and received her sales license. After college, she began a career in corporate and entertainment public relations while still renewing her real estate license every four years. Fast forward twenty years. Today she is an award-winning agent at Berkshire Hathaway Home Services. Davina brings her marketing and public relations expertise to every transaction. She specializes in target marketing her properties and finding creative ways to showcase each home individually. “Every house is different and every client has individual needs. My strategy is to listen and create a customized plan to achieve each seller’s goals,” she explains. Communication is the key for Davina. “The number one thing clients want is to be able to communicate with their agent and be heard. My job is to listen to their needs and then hit the ground running.”

An expert at multi-tasking, Davina is often juggling many transactions at one time. “It takes a lot of organization and time-management to oversee all of the details. That’s actually one of the best parts about my job. No two transactions are alike so it’s always an adventure.” In her spare time, Davina is a wife and a mom of two boys ages 17 and 15.

Berkshire Hathaway Home Services T: 310 702-3563 | davinaodonnell@bhhscal.com bhhscalifornia.com

Hilton & Hyland T: 310 944-4430 | monty@hiltonhyland.com cbluxuryre.com

Mona Cohen

Nikki Joel

Mona Cohen’s love for Real Estate began with her own family’s quest of purchasing a home. She realized early on that it took a certain passion and dedication to be a Realtor and was determined to help families move forward to the next stage in their lives.

She has been a Realtor for many successful years and will be here for many more with Rodeo Realty Fine Estates. This longevity and confidence comes from her real estate services to a great many buyers and sellers, and their recommendations to others that result in repeat and referral business that keeps her productive and successful. As a full service real estate professional, she works with buyers, sellers and investors in real estate transactions spanning all price ranges and property types. Her knowledge, expertise and background in Communication help connect buyers with sellers every day, and she does it with professionalism and a total dedication to her clients. Although residential real estate is the majority of her market transactions, she has vast knowledge and experience in commercial, multifamily and probate transactions. If you or any one you know is thinking of marketing their home or purchasing a home please give Mona Cohen a call and allow her to help you move to the next stage in your life.

Nikki Pfeffer Joel, born and raised in Los Angeles, has a unique approach to real estate as she employs a complete concierge element to the entire home buying and selling experience for her clients. With over a decade of experience, living on both the west side and the valley, she has focused on creating a wide network of resources that touch every detail of the real estate process which often times is very daunting. In addition to guiding her clients with all the details involving the actual real estate transaction, Nikki Pfeffer Joel goes above and beyond by providing invaluable guidance to her clients on all the lifestyle aspects related to transitioning from one home to another. She feels so passionate about life in LA that she created the Lifestyle Lemonaid brand five years ago, which has been providing amazing information via her blog – lifestylelemonaid.com. She now has over 27k followers on Twitter. Because of her experience working and living on both the west side and in the valley, Nikki Pfeffer Joel has an added unique dynamic to her scope of expertise through her knowledge and personal network of resources covering an unusually large geographic area that is LA. There are many great realtors in Los Angeles, but for those looking for a complete concierge experience when listing their home for sale, or buying a new home, Nikki Pfeffer Joel is a perfect choice to get the job done.

Rodeo Realty T: 310 466-6675 | mona@monacohen.com MonaCohen.com

Coldwell Banker T: 818 487-5861 | nicole.joel@camoves.com californiamoves.com focusmag.us 19

SECOND ACT | Kathrin Nicholson

I

studied theater and came to LA on an acting scholarship given to me by Katharine Hepburn. I was an actress for 10 years. In my downtime I was really interested in houses, renovating and design.

I have always had a passion for it. I have lived all around the world, born in England, West Indies, moved to Canada when I was 7 and now LA. I have always have a passion about design and culture and after renovating some houses, I got my real estate license and starting selling houses for friends.

Second Act Actress turned realtor, Kathrin Nicholson is a master negotiator and holds the record of selling the most expensive real estate in the ‘Wilshire Corridor’.

INTERVIEW BY TANYA MEMME

How different is real estate in LA? I love LA because we have so many different neighborhoods – it’s not a cookie cutter city.

There is a home for everybody.

What is your advice for someone moving to the area?

Spend some time driving around, experience the neighborhoods – for funky go to Venice, What types of homes to you specialize in?

I do everything. To me its more about the people than upscale to Brentwood. You really have to the house, and that’s a big tenet of mine. I cross the gamut drive around to see what speaks to you. of areas from Los Feliz to Malibu, to the Valley. I believe a well informed client is the most important thing. My What are the hottest areas?

The Westside is always very hot. Malibu has biggest strength is finding people the right house. come such a long way in the last 10 years.

Why The Agency?

I moved to The Agency What are some trends? after 14 years at Smart homes are very ‘in’ right now. another agency. The Screening rooms are popular. Trending for energy here is like developers, are two pretty distinct styles – nothing I have ever Cape Cod white with the light hardwood seen. The offices floors and white cabinets. And the polar are all glass, open, opposite are the amazing contemporary homes – very sleek, cool and playing to the bright, people sharing information….its views up in the hills. remarkable. I think the Can you tell us about some of your clients? biggest thing is that real estate today is My philosophy is to take on only as many global so you want to listings as I can handle. People put a lot of get your clients the trust in you when they are buying a house.

It’s important for me to have their trust, so I most exposure – and tend not to have too many listings. I do have that is what they do a fair number of celebrity clients so I employ here at The Agency. discretion where warranted.

Sometimes, I encourage celebrities to share their story on why they are selling their Kathrin Nicholson t: 424 231 0751 house. An example of this is Don Johnson. m: 310 963 6888 Because the buyer pool is very small in Santa theagencyre.com/agent/ Barbara, we had to tailor our marketing kathrin-nicholson strategy. To that end, I spoke to Don and his TheAgencyRE.com BRE# 01273016 wife Kelly on how to market it.

20 FOCUS | J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 5

The Battersea Power Station development in London.

BATTERSEA, LONDON Several of us here at The Agency are marketing the Battersea Power Station in London. This is a $12 billion development on the River Thames. They have recreated a development that encompasses residential and office buildings. It wont be completely finished until 2020’s sometime. There are 4000 residential units. The phases that we are selling now are by the renowned architects, Frank Gehry and Lord Norman Foster. These apartments range from $2 million to $60 million. It’s such an exciting project. batterseapowerstation.co.uk

IN BRIEF I feel that giving back is important….My family and I do a lot of charity work for Autism Speaks & the Red Cross. We also just founded The Women of The Agency here, and will be helping to champion causes important to women.

I love continuing to learn the business of real estate.

I’ve taken Negotiation and the Art of Persuasion at USC, something I also practice on my 5 yr old, and I love the continuing emphasis on learning technology and innovation at The Agency. I’m always excited to think outside the box when it comes to helping my clients.

Don Johnson’s house in Santa Barbara is listed at $14.9 million.

Text focus to 313131 to watch Kathrin’s interview focusmag.us/tv/ kathrinnicholson

HOME TALK | 01/2015

Home Talk

Six home tastemakers talk about their views on home trends and their favorite places to live in LA. The video we recorded of the event can be seen at focusmag.us/tv/hometalk.

Here’s a brief taster...

Andrea Schroder

Artisan & Interior Designer

@andreaschroder1 andreaschroder.com Lives on a farm with donkeys and chickens in Topanga Canyon, it’s very affordable for being in LA “I can be at LAX in 20 minutes” “I always choose clean edges to give them a modern feel as houses tend to get cluttered” Trendiest area to live...

Malibu Tip: rent a pod to get rid of the clutter Tip: put an emotional piece like a great fridge or chandelier.

People will emotionally connect to it.

Favorite stores: Big Daddy Antiques West Elm

Ann Herwick

Heather Bilyeu

Tanya Memme

@chic_mama_la chicmamala.com

@heatherbilyeu heatherbilyeu.com

@tanyamemme tanyamemme.com

Blogger

Writes the blog chicmamala about all things chic. She is a wife and mother of 2, originally from Texas, now living and loving Toluca Lake. Easy access to the west side, has become very hip and trendy. “I love going to Silver Lake and feeling a little artsy” Our new house is very open, dark floors, modern furniture, but with antiques to make it more welcoming.

Tip: Since we just sold our house, getting rid of the clutter made all the difference allowing people to see their own personality into the house Favorite stores: CB2 All Modern Design Within Reach

TV Host & Realtor

Real Estate Agent who has been selling homes for 11 years. Star of Bravo’s Million Dollar Listing.

Lives in the bird streets of the Hollywood Hills, just a 3 minute ride down to Sunset Blvd.

Great place to hike.

“View from my master bedroom overlooking the twinkling city lights”. I live in a brand new modern home.

Bi-fold glass door from floor to ceiling. Brought in a lot of natural woods and lots of whites.

Trend: Many couples are moving from Hollywood and Santa Monica to the Valley.

Tip: Secret to a happy relationship – ‘his’ and ‘her’ baths.

TV Host

Host of A&E’s Sell This House and now a mommy DIY expert on the Home & Family show on the Hallmark Channel Lives in Sherman Oaks Tip: If you don’t emotionally detach yourself from your home, you will never be able to sell it and stage it properly”

Jacqueline Gunn

Realtor & Investor @jacgunn

Agent at Partners Trust, investor and editor of LA Home.

Lives in Beverly Hills. but loves going to places that are becoming gentrified, like Silver Lake.

Favorite spot to live: Nichols Canyon – the restaurants are better then ever.

Turned a Spanish 1920s bungalow and found pieces from the era to keep the art deco theme. I really think you should keep authenticity, whenever possible.

Tip: Dont be afraid to stage, and a white couch can really open up a room.

Realtor

@montybeisel hiltonhyland.com/ associates/monty-beisel Realtor with Hilton & Hyland, Real estate developer throughout Los Angeles, interior designer and former NFL player.

Lives in Encino Hills, built a house in 2005.

It’s more neighborhood friendly. “everyone has their own little eclectic area they love”.

I like Spanish contemporary, dark hardwood floors, clean lines, glass, lots of light. I love the indoor/ outdoor vibe.

Trend: Reclaimed wood is the big trend in design.

On the development side, we see Hollywood Hills and Trousdale where every third house is being redone.

Tip: Most important in selling a home are the photos – “its like match. com and Tinder”.

I had a client buy a $3 million house because they liked the big TV on the wall.

Trend: I see a lot of people going to Trousdale Estates, with its wide streets and flat lots Trend: The comeback of the wetbar outside the master bedroom, as well as the family room.

Text focus to 313131 to watch this lively discussion. focusmag.us/tv/hometalk

Monty Beisel

Look out for LA Home magazine in Spring 2015

Favorite stores: HD Buttercup, Plantation in Venice

focusmag.us 21

Shining Bright Andrea Schroder chats with us about her candle and home fragrance line, The Poetry of Fragrance – inspired by her love of all things home, nature, family and her Grandmother’s beautiful poetry.

W

BY FELICIA WALDMAN

e met Andrea Schroder at her home office, a cozy and pristine cottage on her beautiful farm, tucked away in the Santa Monica Mountains, just outside of Los Angeles where she lives with her Actor and Film Producer husband Ricky, their four children, four dogs, and many farm animals.

As we entered the cottage, the smell of her homemade candles burning was simply intoxicating, along with the comfortable and welcoming feeling of the decor she created herself, all calling our name to relax and stay for a long while.

For as long as she can remember, Andrea has been interested in interior design. As a young child she was always be moving furniture around her room, shopping for fabrics at vintage stores, gardening, and creating homemade crafts at home. When she was 18, she met her husband Ricky, and built their first home from scratch. “I did it on a super tight budget and a super short time frame and I loved it, and that passion just confirmed my passion and love for all things interior design and specifically making a home special.”

Today, Andrea wears many hats, renowned Interior Designer, yes, but most important to her, a mother, a wife, and an active philanthropist of children’s charities.

Andrea’s passion for creating candles began as a way to give guests and friends a beautiful and personal keepsake gift from her, using items grown on her farm as well as the most pure and organic ingredients, “I wanted to make sure that whatever I burned in my house was going to be perfect.” Her candles are handmade with food-grade pure coconut oil, “It’s

22 FOCUS | J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 5

LAVENDER LINEN That just one heart was happier because your smile was true, one wrinkle in the folds of life was smoothed because of you.

- Kathleen Partridge

SHINING BRIGHT | Andrea Schroder

like a soft blanket, the way that coconut oil delivers fragrance. It’s really great and once you start getting used to it, it’s hard to have any different type of candle. Every product of mine is not only non-toxic but it’s actually nourishing. You can use the warm candle wax straight from one of my candles as a moisturizer, once it’s heated you can rub it all over your skin making it soft and smelling amazing. I use it for my legs, my hands, my arms. It’s a great product and it’s awesome that it’s in a candle.”

FOCUS: Your candles really are a reflection of you, tell us about your inspiration for them?

ANDREA SCHRODER: My grandmother, Kathleen Partridge, was this amazing poet in England. She has published probably over 100 poetry books, and I grew up reading them. I lost my grandmother when I was a little girl, and so I loved that I had her books to read. And I said, “What if I put a poem on my candles?” They’re my poems and I was trying to find something that was totally unique to me and that I could share with others that was uplifting and so that’s what birthed “The Poetry of Fragrance”.

Every single product of mine comes with a different poem. I’ve adapted all the poetry from my grandmother and, my son writes poetry, he might be embarrassed for me to tell that, but I’ve used his on a few of my new room sprays. And so it’s just really fun that it is really, really unique. I just am shocked that every day I open a book of hers and find another poem that matches perfectly with the fragrance that I’m developing.

FOCUS: Do you have a favorite poem?

AS: [holding up a pillow from her line] I just love this poem. And it says that, “Just one heart was happier because your smile was true. One wrinkle in the folds of life was smoothed because of you.” It’s just

like a good day-to-day thing to get out of ourselves and think of others, because I think that when we get so caught up in ourselves, I know when I do, myself personally, that’s when I actually feel the worst. So I put that quote on a pillow so I could be reminded of it continuously.

FOCUS: Because you work out of your home, does your family help?

AS: Last year for Christmas I was slammed with more orders than I thought and we had to bring like a thousand candles into my kitchen and my entire family was labelling for hours and hours. Ricky has come with me to candle meetings. He tests fragrances. But then sometimes he’ll give me suggestions and I’m like, “Mmm...stick to acting, stick to directing, you are not directing me, this is real life.” [laughing] He’s super supportive any chance he gets.

He gave Andy Cohen a candle during an interview and Andy became a fan of the candles. And he gave one to Kathie Lee and Hoda on The Today Show. So I’m totally lucky to have him as a support and help get the word out.

FOCUS: What are you working on right now?

AS: One of the business areas that I’m developing right now, which I’m really, really, really excited about, is the ability for people at home to have home parties and supplement their income without having to go out of the home for work, because I’m really passionate about somebody, whether it’s a mother or a father or an aunt, being with the child at home, if at all possible.

And so, for me to develop a stream of revenue that could allow somebody to spend time at home with their child, I know it’s not possible for everybody. And so, I’m really excited about that part of the business. We are totally hands on, we’re totally home-friendly, we’re a totally mommy-friendly, family-friendly company.

And that’s probably the thing of which I’m the most proud.

FOCUS: Your charitable work with children is impressive and extensive, how do you fit this into your schedule?

AS: My charitable work with children did not start with my business. When I was younger I was not wealthy, but I would often babysit for free or take a meal to a new mom, and then stay and do her dishes. It was how I was raised – to care for others.

Selflessness is a character trait that is amplified by opportunity.

My business has opened up so many new ways to give.

Currently I am working on a candle called Lemonade Laughter, which is packaged with a poem about caring for children.

A portion of each of these candles will go to Childhelp International, an organization committed to saving children from severe child abuse. Merv Griffin donated his ranch to Childhelp which houses the most severely damaged children. Five children a month in the USA die from child abuse. It’s hard to believe, but when you are a mother, being able to help prevent suffering amongst children is not work - it’s motivation.

For store locations, to purchase products, candle subscriptions, and to host your own candle party for profit, go to: andreaschroder.com

Text focus to 313131 to watch Andrea’s interview focusmag.us/tv/andreaschroder focusmag.us 23

@abigailehale

@chelsea_watts

@felicebakker

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focusmag.us 25

BLOG SPOTLIGHT | LA LA SCOOP

BLOG SPOTLIGHT

THE POINTS GUY LAUNCHES TRAVEL APP

THE STUDIO MDR

Today, I sat down with Lisa Hirsch, the owner and CEO of my favorite WestSide ClassPass Brian Kelly, aka “The Points Guy,” just launched his new travel app, “TPG to Go,” in Pick, The Studio MDR. She’s beautiful, full of sensational style, complete with an adorable life and ambitious for all the right reasons.

The studio is adorable and immaculately crew of flight attendants and the sounds of clean. But, don’t be fooled – the workout is DJ Viceroy, atop Hollywood’s W Hotel Loft crushing! And, I can’t get enough! event space.

Full story at lalascoop.com Full story at lalascoop.com

THE HARLOT SALON

Tucked down a mini alley off the main drag of Abbot Kinney, The Harlot Salon bourgeons tresses into sexy works of art through the fingers, hands and artistic minds of owner, Marylle Koken, and her incredible team of hair experts. The setting is evidence alone for what you’ll experience and walk away with.

Full story at lalascoop.com

LA LA SCOOP lalascoop.com

ROCHELLE ROBINSON LaLaScoop Co-founder rochelle@lalascoop.com Before there were seat belt laws, Rochelle took seasonal drives down the curvy coastline from Seattle to Los Angeles on her mom’s lap, as her dad took the wheel of their family 911 – top down, breeze blowing, feeling the freedom of nearing California. These childhood trips landed the three of them in quaint beach towns like Carmel by the Sea to the vibrant streets of LA. Always a glutton for the water and sunshine, it is no wonder that as a young adult she found herself taking one of her first jobs in Los Angeles without hesitation. With a quick stint in San Diego, Los Angeles has been where she has worked, played, loved and soaked in the powerful peacefulness of the ocean waves for nearly 20 years now. The eclectic experiences and opportunities that LA has to offer continue to draw her in as an artist, writer, outdoor and fitness enthusiast, teacher, entrepreneur, and simply as a person.

Rochelle is the owner & personal trainer at Andiamo Body and a fine artist for LSO Designs. She’s also a children’s librarian and advanced reading seminar teacher at Laurence School. Her “claim to fame” is having her painting hanging in the Henson Recording Studios.

26 FOCUS | J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 5

MELISSA CURTIN LaLaScoop Co-founder melissa@lalascoop.com A solid East Coaster who fell in love with the dynamic energy and creative spirit of Los Angeles. Every time Melissa travels, she can’t wait to come back to LaLa Land. Seven years later, the hills in the wood of holly are her home. Malibu is her church. The endless canyons are her peace. The influential and interesting people make her feel alive. The cultural enclaves of the city make her feel excited. The anonymity of living here make her feel free.

She wants to share the city’s magical tales with you, so you too can discover why LA is the greatest city in the world.

Melissa is the owner of Wear2Learn Tees, an Educator, Travel Writer, Nature Lover, Fitness Fein.

MELLISA’S ANGELS | 01/2015

Mellisa’s Angels Mellisa Nielsen parlays her love of helping others into a successful fundraising business, creating employment for young women and channeling their talent and energy toward community growth.

There is a new set of “Angels” in town, and while these ladies aren’t fighting crime on prime time television they’re changing the world in a different way, through charity fundraising.

The Charity Angels is the brainchild of long time philanthropist, Mellisa Nielsen. Mellisa had a long history of volunteering in the community when a unique opportunity presented itself. A friend who served as the chair of his charity’s golf tournament asked Mellisa if she could help with day-of event fundraising strategies and activities. Mellisa obliged, the event turned out to be a huge success, and seeing an unfulfilled niche in the fundraising marketplace, The Charity Angels concept was formed that very day.

A decade later, with more than 100 charity clients, and having helped raise more than 73 million dollars, the business is still growing. While the core of the business remains golf tournaments, galas, and poker tournament fundraisers, The Charity Angels is expanding its service offering to include Cause Event Planning, Fundraising Consulting and Live Auctioneering. To that end, Mellisa partnered with Candace Yoder as COO to spearhead growth efforts of the business.

Ms. Nielsen is a fundraising force. Her drive to raise as much money and awareness for charities across the nation took her to the next organic step in her career – Live Auctioneering.

In July 2014, Ms. Nielsen was formally trained as a Live Auctioneer at The Missouri Live Auction School, referred to as “The Harvard of Auctioneering” in Newsweek Magazine.

The community has embraced the new product “Auctioneering Angels” with open arms. “I have been overwhelmed with the support of clients partnering with us for their Live Auctioneering needs” stated Ms. Nielsen.

The combination of professionalism, charisma, and passion for helping others that set The Charity Angels apart from traditional fundraising consultants/ specialists. The Charity Angels are Cause Ambassadors for every charity partner they work with. They bring a

fresh blast of energy and enthusiasm to each event they attend.

“We have very strong client loyalty; if we aren’t available, clients often move their fundraiser date”, stated Ms. Nielsen.

Most recently The Charity Angels has partnered with The Matthew Silverman Memorial Foundation to produce The First Annual Light Up The Night for Teen Suicide Prevention and Awareness on October 24, 2014 at The Buffalo Club in Santa Monica.

With the help of Ms. Nielsen and her team they were able to secure a celebrity studded crowd to talk about a very sensitive taboo topic “suicide”.

Guests walked the red carpet, enjoyed an acoustic set by Lukas Nelson (Willie Nelson’s son), a special appearance by the Bumby’s and danced the night away. “While guests certainly had a great time, the message was clear and felt throughout the night which is always our mission as Cause Event Planners” stated Ms. Nielsen.

“My heart was overwhelmed when our 250 guests took a moment of silence with candles lit in memory and honor of those who have lost their lives to the unspeakable epidemic of Teen Suicide and learned our event resulted in over 63,597 social media impressions”, said Ron Silverman Founder of The Matthew Silverman Memorial Foundation.

“I am grateful to have built a company that creates jobs for young women in the community while raising money and awareness for charities across the nation. I can’t imagine doing anything else with my time”- Ms. Nielsen stated.

The Charity Angels T: (424) 293-8000 thecharityangels.com

focusmag.us 27

#sassoonway

EDITOR’S PICK 2014

In a candid conversation, Eden Sassoon, reveals her relationship with her father and her determination to create a legacy of her own.

Edited transcript by Felicia Waldman from an exclusive video interview with Dawn McCoy

So you had a vision and how did you put it into action?

I think everything that I do comes from an organic visualization – I have a connection with what I call God, people call it higher power, whatever it may be, the universe; for me its my God – and I get this immediate gut feeling and all of a sudden it’s very clear what I have to do. And then “You know, I’m a single sober mother.

And, that says a lot, those words right there: you take the steps. You make it happen. You find the right single, sober mother at 40. And team. That’s one thing my father I’m not afraid to show all that.” taught me is you are only as good as your team. So if I don’t yourself?” And I looked at him and I’m have that team around me that’s gonna build like, “I’m a mom!” And I left that house something, I can’t. There’s no way I can do and literally I went to therapy the next it all myself. But I do a lot of things and day, and I was like, excuse my language, I’m like wow, at the end of the day I’m like, “S#*t! My dad asked me what I’m going I’m like Superwoman, [laughing] I mean it to do with myself, what am I doing with feels sometimes I’m superwoman. I mean my life?”, and I thought being a mom was sometimes I take it for granted but I just get that, I’m done, and I sat back and I’m like, up and do it again! And I just think, alright!

One; I’m in therapy which means I got [looking up and pointing to the ceiling] I’m some problems, of course, its life, but they listening to you, and how am I gonna make need to be worked on, Two; what am I a difference in someone else’s life. That’s it, going to do? Being a mom for me is not that’s my goal. It’s not anything else. I’m my everything. I love my kids and I can do gonna build these businesses, it’s gonna come all this, so I at that point, where does my natural, but the intention is, how am I gonna passion lie? And, I found it. At that point make a difference in someone else’s life? in my life it was pilates. I was there every day, and I was, obviously because I’m single You are already making a difference in now, unhappily married, and pilates was so many people’s lives – your charity my safety, it was my home. I went to bed work on top of your two health and 28 FOCUS | J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 5

beauty businesses...

I will go out carrying on his legacy. He, (Vidal), said to me one day, “You know, I wonder if it will be forgotten, or if I’ll be remembered.” and I’m like, “Uh, are you kidding me?” And its not because of hair, and its not because you’ve come up with an original idea, but, its who you are. You take the time, you stop, you talk, you listen…. he was blessed. And he followed through.

And you know, growing up as his daughter, he was my dad. I completely took him for granted for who he was as a man. He was just my dad. He wasn’t Vidal Sassoon the man. I didn’t get it. When he died I had to rearrange my thoughts, and look at him as Vidal Sassoon the man, and like…[choked up] that doesn’t happen, you know, he was blessed with this life, and really every day made a difference in so many ways. And not just the beauty industry. To me, those are the stories that keep going on and on and on in history, and they come from that place of love. I’m like sweating now [laughing] EDEN BY EDEN SASSOON

How is Eden by Eden Sassoon different from other salons and blow dry shops?

What sets you apart?

What sets us apart is we don’t call it a salon, we call it a finishing studio. Here’s a little story. So dad had an episode, ICU, etc, he thought he was going to die. “Eden, Can we go to lunch?” “Of course.” At lunch, his favorite restaurant, “You know this time I really thought it was it, and at some point you’re gonna be given a gift, and since I’m still here, I want see what you’re going do with it.” Ohhhhhh, here we go again! [laughing] So, here we go and you know “what are you gonna do with yourself ” again. Wait a minute, so now I’m a mom, I have a pilates studio, now you wanna see what else I can do. ‘Coz he knows there’s more to me than what I’m just giving. So, [smiling] I’m on another journey saying, [sighs] ok, one passion: fitness, I got that.

What else is there? And at this point I’m

Photoraphy: Rod Roberts Hair & Makeup: EDEN by Eden Sassoon

Dawn McCoy: Your dad is of course this iconic legend, Vidal Sassoon, and as a successful business woman yourself, along with your charitable endeavors, you are making quite a name for yourself.

Eden Sassoon: It’s evolved from a really organic place from becoming a mother and sitting across from my father and him saying, “So what are you going to do with

looking forward to that next day of my journey, my physical journey and how I was gonna get through it, and just finding myself. And through that, there was a divorce, opening the business, and so much that came from just Dad saying, “What are you gonna do with yourself?” Coming from him, really it was very clear to me because he’s a man, there’s no B.S., there’s no joke, he looks you in the eye and its like “who are you? And what are you going to do? And how are YOU going to make a difference?”

And he and I are very much alike and I’m like, “Oh G-d, ok here we go!” And that’s’ exactly what I do now. So that’s how Pilates started. Changed my whole world.

SASSOONWAY | Eden Sassoon

at a blow dry bar, I’m not gonna say the name, in Beverly Hills, and I’m sitting there and I’m looking around and I’m thinking, this place is gross. Really in my head I’m like, this place is gross. And these people

are rude! I’m getting no feeling of….I’m getting nothing. I want to get out of here.

Can you finish blow drying my hair so I can get the hell out of here please? Excuse my language, but the energy was just way off, way off. So, its coming to me and, wait a minute…..I want to change the world.

I love health, I’ve already done that, I’m a Sassoon! Hellooooo….I got it, I got it…

Here we go. These blow dry bars are taking off. I’m going to do something different, I’m going to do it my way and I’m going to do it better.

“What do women want?” A finishing studio where you can go you can get your nails and toes done, you can get your face done, and your hair done at the same time.

You’re basically finished for an event, for the day, For whatever it may be, a date?

Fast. Most importantly, it’s your experience that you have there. You don’t feel like you are in a salon – because I grew up in a salon, and I didn’t want to have that feeling anymore. So I built it out as sort of a Malibu, comfy, chic, exactly like my home.

It’s relaxed and you immediately feel at home like this. With photos on the wall of my family and old pictures of my dad and my mom, it’s just very...inviting you into my life and my family. And people love it. If you’re going to work for the Sassoon brand, the “Eden Sassoon” brand, then you need to come from the same sort of heart space that I do. Otherwise, we don’t speak the same language.

What’s next for Eden by Eden Sassoon?

Everything. We are building… when I say carrying on a legacy, that means carrying on

a brand as well. So, the Sassoon brand, and Eden by Eden Sassoon, will be everywhere.

Products, The Finishing Studio definitely will grow fast. I’d like to go international.

And everything for the greater good. A product isn’t just because people need another product. No. If we come up with something and we put something out there, then there is something behind that to give back. And more and more companies are doing that, thank God. So there is always thought behind what the next thing is going to be but there’s a lot. And it says it in the name, Sassoon is one thing, but Eden is another. And I always wonder why they chose “Eden”. I believe there’s a reason for everything.

THIS TOO SHALL PASS

Outside of your Pilates and Finishing Studio, what keeps you going?

Being sober, going to meetings, talking to people that inspire me or maybe need my inspiration…. waking up, taking the kids to school saying, “get outta the car so I can get to SoulCycle,” and sweat, and know that in my mind at that moment, ohh, what goes on in my mind in THAT class is like wow... is 45 minutes for myself.

Is there a quote, mantra, passage, or just a line that guides your life right now?

“This too shall pass”. Everyone stays stuck.

And I unstuck myself... in every moment, is every moment. Be very present, and very involved. and then you just kind of live this life.

What accomplishments are you most proud of?

You know one would think I’d say my children first but I’m not going to.

“Being sober”.

How long?

It’s been over a year.

Congratulations.

Thank you. And the addiction’s been lifted. But it’s the work and the truth and the honesty that I put into my life – but I always have. The way that I live my life is very clear, and for people to say, wow. She’s no joke. That’s it. There’s nothing to cover up, there’s no pills, there’s no grabbing for alcohol, there’s no smoking… you know you might find me going to two classes at SoulCycle or taking an extra pilates class, or maybe indulging in pizza.

I did it. And I did it, and I did every day, and I chose to make the right decisions, and I moved forward, and I did it at the

time when I was also opening the business, and having the kids, and breaking up with a relationship, and deciding to stay single, and stop drinking, and get rid of smoking.

I mean, I made all those decisions. And it comes back to that one thing that he tried to teach me all the time. Discipline. Period.

End of story. Because you choose and then that’s it. How do you want your life to be?

Every single day.

In addition to being your dad, he was also your mentor...

One hundred percent, my dad is my mentor. He is, hands down in every way.

Which is kind of odd, but who he is as a man, I aspire to be every single day of my life. And pretty much live up to it. I really just let go, and be present in the moment.

It’s going to be my lifelong journey. So I’m blessed to be given him as a father to be given those gifts.

You are, and it sounds he also felt very blessed to have you as a daughter.

I was reading some bits and pieces of his book today and he was going through the kids, no disregard to my brothers and sisters because they are amazing, but he would go into each kid and there was my sister, then my brother, then… “and my darling Eden... she’s the most like me.” [teary].

There’s no higher compliment. If your dad was here with us right now, what do you think he’d say about you, or to you?

One of the last things he said, I went over and I was crying and I had this fear, and he said, “Wait, I didn’t raise you like this. Go get ‘em. You can do this.” And I said, “What if I fail, what if I lose everything?” He said, “Then you start over.” I’m like, arghhhh, you make this and then this, and now this?! [laughs] Ok. I got it dad thanks.

Text focus to 313131 to watch Eden’s interview. focusmag.us/tv/edensassoon Eden Sassoon edenbyedensassoon.com This edited version was originally printed in Focus Issue 9 - 04/2014 focusmag.us 29

Music & Theater

Laleh

7, 14, 21, 28 January, 8pm

Singer, producer, songwriter, and musician Laleh Pourkarim has a back-story that could be the plot of a sprawling war-time novel. She was born in Iran to democratic activist parents. The family lived in hiding before fleeing, after Laleh’s birth, to Azerbaijan, then to Minsk, where Laleh has memories of Soviet bread lines and squat government housing.

When she was nine, the Pourkarims moved to Sweden where Laleh spent several years crammed into a house with other political refugees.

The Hotel Cafe 1623 1/2 N. Cahuenga Blvd. CA 90028 hotelcafe.com

Gene Kelly: The Legacy 10 January, 7:30PM

Patricia Ward Kelly – his widow, biographer and the person who knew Gene Kelly best – presents an intimate portrait of this dynamic and innovative artist who created some of the most memorable and iconic scenes in film history. Familiar film clips, personal memorabilia and insights culled from Kelly’s hours of interviews and conversations with her husband.

Wallis Annenberg Center, 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd.

Beverly Hills, CA 90210 thewallis.org

30 FOCUS | J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 5

Frank Warren: Post Secret Live 28 January, 8pm

A multimedia presentation of highly personal and artfully decorated postcards mailed anonymously from around the world, displaying soulful secrets humans might otherwise never voice. Frank Warren will share inspiring and funny stories behind the secrets, reveal postcards that were banned from his multiple books and invite audience members to share a secret—live.

Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, CA 90095 T: 310 825-4401 cap.ucla.edu

Jack Lemmon Returns 7-8 January, 8pm

Starring Chris Lemmon, son of Hollywood legend Jack Lemmon (Some Like It Hot, The Odd Couple), and written and directed by Hershey Felder, Jack Lemmon Returns is an immensely personal, and ultimately heartwarming story about Chris’ Academy Award-winning father and their enduring relationship. Chris plays his father in this one-man show, which captures the magic of a bygone era, when Marilyn Monroe, Gregory Peck, James Cagney, Jimmy Stewart and Shirley MacLaine were but a handful of the many stars who would pass through the Lemmon’s Hollywood Hills home. Performed in a musical story-telling style that includes songs such as George and Ira Gershwin’s “Love is Here to Stay” and “’S Wonderful,” Jack Lemmon Returns is a loving tribute to a world-famous dad, told with respect and dignity.

The Broad Stage, 1310 11th Street Santa Monica, CA 90401 T: 310 434 3200 thebroadstage.com

Sing Along Grease 30 January, 8pm

You’d better shape up for this special event! Singalong Grease is a unique, interactive show, marking the 40th anniversary of the original stage version of Grease. You’ll be singing along to the great movie musical, complete with on-screen lyrics and the chance to become a T-bird or Pink Lady for the night. Now, at last, Summer Lovin’, Grease Lightning and the chance to sport a pink wig or greased quiff while belting out You’re The One That I Want are here. Sing-a-long-Greasers are encouraged to deck out in their own versions of 50’s high school garb worn at Rydell High. Yes, costumes are most definitely encouraged, but singing is MANDATORY! Hosted by legendary Los Angeles radio personality Charlie Tuna!

Tickets: $25/$35/$45 Saban Theatre, 8440 Wilshire Blvd, CA 90211 T: 323-655-0111 canyonclub.net

Culture

Current Exhibitions Larry Sultan: Here and Home Until 22 March 2015

Larry Sultan: Here and Home is the first retrospective of California photographer Larry Sultan (1946–2009).

The exhibition includes more than 200 photographs ranging from Sultan’s conceptual and collaborative works of the 1970s to his solo works in the decades following. Sultan never stopped challenging the conventions of photographic documentation, exploring themes of family, home, and façade throughout his career. Five major bodies of work are represented including: Evidence (1977), made collaboratively with Mike Mandel; Swimmers (1978–81); Pictures from Home (1982–92); The Valley (1998–2003); and Homeland (2006–2009). The show is augmented by a “study hall,” with documentation and ephemera providing a glimpse of Sultan’s modes of inquiry as an artist and a teacher.

LACMA 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036 T: 323 857-6000 lacma.org

Jim Hodges: Give More Than You Take Until 18 January 2015

American artist Jim Hodges is known for his singular ability to infuse emotion and narrative into the objects of daily life, creating poignant studies based in temporality, life, and love. This is the first comprehensive survey to be organized in the United States on the work of the New York–based artist. Featuring some 75 pieces produced from 1987 through the present, Jim Hodges: Give More Than You Take brings together photography, drawing, works on paper, and objects rendered in mirror, lightbulbs, silk flowers, and glass alongside several major room-size installations.

Hammer Museum. 10899 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024.

T: 310 443-7000 hammer.ucla.edu

Danae Falliers: Library Until 17 January 2015

When Danae Falliers explored the extraordinary, Rem Koolhaas-designed, Seattle Public Library, she photographed the building and its endless stacks and shelves of neatly organized books. Due to the relatively low lighting conditions, all of the text along the book spines softly disappeared, and Falliers recognized that her library photographs had edged closer to pure abstraction. She decided to pursue the potential of this discovery by digitally enhancing and manipulating a group of new library images, blurring the book edges and re-assembling assorted rows of books of various colors and thicknesses. Rather than framed and captured in the mode of traditional photographic practice, these images are constructed. They are fabricated using elements of color and form in the manner of a geometric abstract painter or sculptor. Not surprisingly, Falliers acknowledges the conceptual and formal influences of three seemingly disparate artists, Gerhard Richter, Ed Ruscha and Bridget Riley, whose works she references in scraped blurs, the use of books, and the stripes of Op Art. Craig Krull Gallery, 2525 Michigan Avenue Gallery B-3, CA 90404 craigkrullgallery.com

Dede Wilsey, 2007, of SF Society 127 x 152.4 cm,

Sink Or Swim

Sunday, November 16, 3-5 pm

Sink or Swim: Designing for a Sea Change explores the human story of resilience, from adaptation for survival to ambitious infrastructure planning, in some of the richest and poorest of the world’s coastal communities. Rather than showing pristine architectural photography, the photographs present viewers with various human responses to changes in their landscapes due to sea level rise. Sink or Swim aims to foster critical dialogue through the provocative juxtaposition of diverse responses to a challenge shared by millions worldwide.

Annenberg Space for Photography 2000 Avenue of the Stars, CA 90067 T: 213 403-3000 annenbergphotospace.org

focusmag.us 31

Crafty Type

DIY Princess Crowns

Supermom, Tanya Memme has the best job in the world – creating DIY projects for the tv show Home & Family. Armed with a glue gun, she shows us how to make some of her favorite projects.

The most beautiful princess crowns for girls to play dress up with. They look like they cost a fortune, but each one is under $5. These will make any little girl feel extra special.

Perfect for a princess themed birthday party, a beautiful gift, or something special for little girls to play with.

MATERIALS: Lace 12-15” each Fabric Stiffener Silver, bronze, gold, pink spray paint or Acrylic paints (whatever color you wish) Glue/glue gun Thin metal hair band Wax paper DIRECTIONS *Choose your lace. I found that crochet-type lace absorbed the fabric stiffener well. You can use synthetic, cotton or whatever you wish.

A

s a former Miss Canada, the host of two Emmy Nominated Television shows and a DIY Expert & Momtrepreneur, Tanya has become known to millions of viewers across the country.

Tanya spent thirteen seasons on A&E’s Emmy-nominated TV shows Sell This House, Sell This House Extreme and Move This House. Currently, she is a cast member and DIY Expert on the Hallmark Channel’s Emmy-nominated lifestyle/talk show, Home and Family where she encourages parents how to grow closer to their kids through DIY and crafting. Since Tanya’s crafts and her fun personality have become a hit on Television and Social Media, this spring she will be launching her own line of crafting kits - “Tanya Memme Crafts”.

Tanya is also host of KTLA’s Best Vacations where she takes viewers on fabulous journeys exploring top destinations around the world, and is a proud spokesperson for the non-profit organization Wells Of Hope. She dedicates her time at least twice a year to travel to Guatemala to help build wells, schools and communities alongside her father, Frank Memme. It’s a tradition she hopes to continue with her own daughter. www.wellsofhope.com Tanya credits her success to her mother Beverley Barber, a accomplished fine artist and her father Frank Memme a successful homebuilder, who have inspired her and supported her along her crazy journey.

She truly believes spending time with family and the simple joys are the greatest rewards. She thrives on helping others find their inspiration. For Tanya, it’s not about creating the perfect life, but creating a COLORFUL LIFE.

32 FOCUS | J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 5

*Cut them into 12-15” pieces, depending on how you want them to sit on the head. I prefer the look of a smaller circumference crown. *Put on latex gloves and saturate each piece of lace in fabric stiffener. Wipe off excess, and make sure clear all bubbles or “windows” formed in the holes of the lace by the glue. Blot off excess glue. *Set each piece out on a sheet of wax paper, turning over a few times to help them dry faster.

REPEAT THIS PROCESS 2-4 times depending on how well the type of lace takes to the stiffening effect.

Let dry until it isn’t tacky to the touch. *After the fabric stiffener is dry then spray paint or paint with a brush or sponge or use a paint pen to bring color to both sides of the lace. Let the paint dry. *Then bring the two edges together matching up the pattern and glue with a glue gun into a crown shape. *Place on the head with bobby pins to secure!

DONE!

CRAFTY TYPE | Tanya Memme

Super Hero Fantasy Photos The whole family can get in on this!

DIY Rainbow Goop Kids love it and it lasts for a long time!

This DIY was a HIT on Home & Family for the kids and the adults! kids love mixing the colors!

Sports Car Movie Theatre Seats

INGREDIENTS: 2 4oz bottles of Elmers Glue/ color 1 tsp of Borax Water Two Bowls (bowl #1 and Bowl #2) Water based florescent paint Wax paper

Why not transform any movie night into an entire experience for kids!! Every kid loves cars and popcorn!

MATERIALS: Ladder Queen or King blue bed sheet Painters Tape or Duct Tape Yellow cardboard Dark Blue or red fabric (for the cape) 4 - 5 cardboard gift boxes that are different sizes (dollar store) Cotton balls or (fake snow) Paint - different colors - must have black DIRECTIONS To make the buildings - assemble the gift boxes and turn them over to the white back.

Paint the back of the box to make them look like buildings (as seen in the photo or create your own designs) To make the sun cut out a circle and 7 thin triangles (see in photo) Cut out a rectangle for the cape out of the blur or red fabric Lay the sheet out as flat as possible and tape the edges down Place the buildings along the bottom of the sheet to create the city scape.

Place the sun and clouds along the top of the blanket Have the kids lay in a flying position (if they have long hair… you can create a windblown look)

MATERIALS: Cardboard box Paints Stickers Paper plates Construction paper (Any other things you want to decorate your car with)

DIRECTIONS Bowl #1 Pour entire contents of both Elmers glue bottles into the bowl. then fill each with warm water, shake and pour into the bowl as well. (equal parts water and glue) Then add as much of the paint you want to get your desired color (2-4 tablespoons or more) SET ASIDE Bowl #2 Pour in ½ cup of warm water then add 1tsp of Borax to the mixture and stir until dissolved.

Then pour this (bowl #2) into your glue bowl (bowl #1) Then stir - you’ll see the goo getting stringy. with your hands continue mixing…. (the water will separate from the goo) after a few minutes or less it will become gel like in texture. Lift the goo out of the bowl and place on wax paper to dry up some of the water…… wait a bout 5 minutes and PRESTO!

Place the cape last

Make a few colors and present them all to your kids at the same time! Watch how long they play!

Shoot the photo as high above and straight over the scene as possible!

GREAT FOR BIRTHDAY PARTIES OR GIFTS FOR THEIR FRIENDS.

A SUPER HERO IS BORN!

DIRECTIONS Take a cardboard box, flip the side flaps inside the box except for the top front flap. (see the light blue car to the left front of the photo) To create the front hood of the car, tape the front flap to the sides of the box and make sure the other three plops are folded inside.

You may need to shorten the hood flap which you can do with a box cutter. (then tape it on either side) Let the body shop design begin!

Use duct tape to create the lines and sports car corners paper plates for the tires toys for the head lights construction paper for the license and grill and windows (or just paint them on) Final touches: Clamp on a small bucket to hold popcorn and movie drinks!

SET IT ALL UP IN FRONT OF THE TV AND INVITE OVER YOUR KIDS BEST FRIENDS!!

Tanya Memme tanyamemme.com

focusmag.us 33

Kids

Cahnicles

The Adventures of the Cahn Family There are so many kid friendly things to do in Los Angeles during the holidays. Here are a few of my little one’s favorite things!

The Grove Some people say that Los Angeles lacks the snow that really defines the holiday season – not so at the Grove! Twice a day at 7pm and 8pm it actually snows for about 5 minutes. They also have, in my opinion, the best Santa in town and a 100 foot tall Christmas tree that kids LOVE. Ice Skating Once the holidays get close, there are a few amazing outdoor rinks that pop up around the city. Who wouldn’t want to go ice-skating in shorts and a t-shirt in our 75 degree winter? If you want to be a few blocks from the beach there is ICE at Santa Monica. There are two rinks - one for ages 7 and up and another specifically for little ones.

Admission is $15 with skate rentals (downtownsm.com/ice). If you are more into sky scrapers looming over you, then Downtown on Ice at Pershing Square might be more your speed. General admission $9/ skate rentals $3(pershingsquareicerink.com).

If you’ve got a beginner ice skater on your hands, the rink in Downtown Burbank is definitely the place for you. They have orange seals that are perfect for little munchkins to balance with. General admission $10/skate rentals $3 (downtown-burbank.org). The best part is that all of these rinks are open from November to January.

Christmas Lights For 94 years Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena has been a sight to behold from your car. I remember going as a little girl and loved it just as much as my little ones do! It’s a mile long road lined with brightly lit up cedar trees that shouldn’t be missed. Check out the Balian House there which has over 10,000 holiday lights! If you would rather walk and see the lights up close and personal then Sleepy Hollow in Torrance is the perfect place. Almost every house is lit up and there are even neighborhood kids selling cookie and hot chocolate!

Kim Cahn left her television producer job to be a full time mom to Olive (5) and Buster (1). She writes about their family activities on her blog andrewjr.com Watch this space for Kim Cahn’s family adventure next month!

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Childrens Books

Home themed books curated by VERONICA MAJD

A House for Hermit Crab

by Eric Carle Ages 0-8 Known for his numerous awards in children’s literature, Eric Carle published A House for Hermit Crab in 1987. The story about a hermit crab who outgrows the shell he lives in. He moves into a new one and starts all over, elaborately decorating it. Filled with colorful and bold illustrations.

Your child will find this book’s pages quite catchy.

Button Crafts

by Carrie Anton Ages 6-12 This book provides step-bystep instructions on how to use buttons to create crafts, to not only decorate any girl’s room, but also shows you how to make beautiful clothes, jewelry and gifts! Instructions are written clearly and are easy to understand. Great for girls who want to work independently on projects, or for mothers and daughters to collaborate.

Nature Crafts

by Joy Williams Ages 6-12 This book will allow you and your child to use the good ole’ outdoors to make beautiful accessories for your home.

From searching and finding shells, nuts or pebbles to create picture frames - or leaves for table placemats - you can discover your overlooked backyard resources to create amazing home accoutrements.

My Place

by Nadia Wheatly Ages 8+ Various children from different generations tell their stories about living in one particular place in Australia from 1788 to 1988. The book explains the changes a quarter acre of land has undergone, and also provides insights on the different experiences encountered by the children. Contains maps and illustrations. Available on Amazon for less than $6

Veronica Majd is the children’s librarian at Donald Bruce Kaufman - Brentwood Branch. For comments, suggestions, questions or follow-ups, please email her at vmajd@lapl.org

LIPSTICK SISTER SPOTLIGHT

BLOOD SWEAT & DETOX | Christine Khuri

Blood, Sweat and Detox What if blood was the key to your dream body?

Fitness expert Christine Khuri explains how blood tests are essential to Hollywood’s newest fitness craze, especially to those entering or preparing for menopause.

WHAT’S IN HER PURSE Peanut butter Quest Bars A green juice from Pressed Juicery Dr. Gross Salycilic Cleaning Pads (I use these immediately after a work out!)

Estee Lauder B&B cream tinted moisturizer Emergen-C packets My Up Band to track my movements

Christine Khuri’s Blood, Sweat & Detox program is a personalized, hormonal fitness plan built around her client’s specific needs and blood panel by their doctor. Christine works with women (and men) heading into their 40s and 50s who want to look and feel young and fit regardless of there bodies’ changes. This can be difficult for many people struggling to come to terms with aging.

Women first starting menopause usually have two problems: First, they experience weight gain, loss of libido, brain fog and extremely low energy. These are signs that your hormones may be off. In this case, no amount of exercise or diet fads will work. Second, women begin to see a loss of muscle. This is usually because they start doing excessive cardio to offset the weigh gain from hormonal changes.

Resistance training and hard work in the gym become vital as low intensity will not give you the results you are looking for.

The hormonal panel is crucial to treat the underlying cause of fatigue and weight gain. High cortisol and low thyroid are the most common conditions seen with women over the age of 40. If these are off, it doesn’t matter what is done… you will not lose weight.

Christine’s Blood, Sweat & Detox program combines hormonal balance and fitness to have a healthy body, mind and spirit.

STEPS:

1. BLOOD: Consult and go over blood work with your doctor or my recommended doctor, depending on every client’s preference.Once your test results are back, it’s time to determine treatment protocol.

2. SWEAT: Revamp your fitness routine. Excessive cardio is not the answer to your problems! Too much cardio and over eating raises cortisol, worsening the problems. I work with you to create a workout plan prone to building muscle and reducing flab. I teach a unique blend of strong and supple resistance work. We go heavy and high intensity then balance it out with sleeker sculpting move to get a strong, yet lean look. We use the Pilates reformer and ballet moves as well as stronger cross training moves with weights and kettle bells. We also blend in 15 minutes of yoga into the session and a short meditation.The cardio will be based on the lab results and weight loss goals. The result is a balanced mind, body & spirit.

3. DETOX: You are put on a 14 or 21-day elimination detox. Clients detox on an anti-inflammatory diet for a period of time, then we add the foods back in and see if they cause a retain such as bloating, gas, rashes, constipation or lethargy. Everyones diet will be different based on their bodily reaction.

GIRL POWER A monthly Happy Hour at the Montage in Beverly Hills. Christine and her colleague Gabrielle Taylor, who is a life coach, get women together for cocktails at The Montage Hotel in Beverly Hills.

Christine gives a talk on some form of health, like belly fat or different types of diets. It’s a fun, casual atmosphere where women can dress up, mingle, have a glass of wine, and learn important fitness tips. For information on the next meeting, follow Christine on Twitter @christinefitness or email her at ckhuri@gmail.com.

Instagram: @ChristineKhuriFitness Facebook.com/ChristineKhuri Email: ckhuri@gmail.com focusmag.us 35

FOOD + MOOD | Danielle Cuccio

Beauty From The Inside Out Ex-Esthetician, Danielle Cuccio, talks about attaining real beauty and her health & beauty brand, Cuccio Somatology.

Photo: Kimberly Geneviéve

Cuccio Somatology started with Danielle Cuccio teaching private yoga in LA to top professionals and celebrities. It has now grown to be a brand, expanding to yoga DVDs, e-books, yoga mats, essential oils and – yes, a skincare line. The products are to be used hand-in-hand or alone to help one live a healthy and happy lifestyle.

Danielle Cuccio, graduated from UCLA and went straight to beauty school to become a Licensed Esthetician and follow her dream of starting her own skincare line. Soon after, she realized that true, radiant, youthful looking skin didn’t come from a topical solution, but something much deeper.

“I got frustrated... Why weren’t products working? Why are my clients coming back to me every few weeks with some of the same issues? I realized then, that my clients had to do so much more than put a cream on their face, or exfoliate their skin weekly. I had started to practice yoga, and that’s when the bright light came on ...YOGA!” Danielle realized that yoga students were living a very different lifestyle from the average person. “Yogis” were practicing a physical routine that would not just get rid them of toxins and make their skin look beautiful, but also rid their minds of stress.

Stress plays a major role in the nervous system, immune system and our largest body organ: THE SKIN. And we should not forget – stress is also known to cause acne and fine lines...

36 FOCUS | J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 5

“Practicing yoga is perfect for people who lead stressful lives, (most of us here in LA), but who still want to look and feel their best.

When we tune in to what’s going on and find a little peace, we release stress. Your skin is the mirror to what is happening internally.

Some people don’t even have time for that and decide to get a facial without doing any of the work. I hate to say it, but it’s not that easy.

I wish it was!”

That’s where Cuccio Somatology came in.

“Cuccio – my last name and Somatology – the study of the body, is the care of the entire body, both internally and externally. It’s a philosophy to assist others in improving their general wellness and aesthetic appearance through the practice of a holistic lifestyle. It takes all avenues of health into consideration – diet, exercise, sleep, meditation, breath, daily thoughts – and yes, products are a part of it too…”

All of it, according to Danielle, plays a role in our overall health, happiness and skin.

“It is not just yoga, but all of it together that equals true inner and outer beauty.”

For Danielle’s e-book, “The Total Guide To Wellness, Beauty & Happiness”, Yoga DVD or to schedule a private yoga session, visit CuccioSomatology.com or Danielle’s Blog: TheBeautyBlender.com

IN THE RAW | Sophie Jaffe

In The Raw

Sophie Jaffe creates her own blend of Superfoods for optimum cleanses.

I never imagined I would own a company like Philosophie. As with most of the truly wonderful things in life, it came about organically.

I grew up in a family that helped me develop a strong appreciation for my body and health. For me, eating nutritious food made with fresh ingredients and whole foods and being physically active was a natural way of life. I loved exploring the tastes, smells, and textures of different fruits and vegetables and felt most energized when I spent time cheerleading, playing soccer, and dancing.

It wasn’t until I moved away to college that I realized that not everyone grows up with a focus on wellbeing and holistic health. I saw the ways that the people around me struggled with unhealthy relationships with food and their bodies. It made me even more grateful for the values that were instilled in me and I found myself gravitating towards communities that held the same reverence for their health that I began to develop a deeply grounding yoga practice and studied the beautiful art of creating delicious, raw, organic meals. I attained certifications to be a Raw Food Chef, personal trainer, and yoga instructor and began to share my love for nurturing the body and soul with others. After working with a

company that created juice cleanses for a high profile clientele, I decided that I wanted to forge my own path and create something that would help people who were on a journey to heal, strengthen, and replenish their bodies.

So many of the cleanses that I had seen were excellent at eliminating toxins from the body, but often resulted in fatigue, hunger, and a quick burn-out. I knew the incredible importance of eating a wide variety of fresh, colorful fruits and vegetables and that truly balanced nutrition can only be achieved by eating whole foods, so I decided to create a new type of cleanse. I began to create smoothies and soups from combinations of the most delicious, nutrient-dense produce and developed a unique cleanse that was packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats. I researched which foods across the world were most revered for their health benefits and learned about potently healing foods like spirulina, acai, and the reishi mushroom. Because each of these superfoods had the capacity to transform people’s bodies with powerful antioxidants and high concentrations of beneficial vitamins and minerals, they became staple ingredients in my cleanses.

As I found myself repeatedly using the same combinations of superfoods in many of my cleanses, I realized that mixing these ingredients together would make it easier to create optimally nutritious meals. I began to blend the purest organic, raw superfood powders together to form my Superfood + Protein Blends, each of which has uniquely nourishing properties. The Green Dream Blend detoxifies the body, the Cacao Magic Blend promotes healing and boosts energy, and the Berry Bliss Blend protects against disease.

Sophie Jaffe thephilosophie.com @philosophiemama

focusmag.us 37

SOUPURE | 01/2015

Get Your Soup On

BY MARLYN DIAZ

What’s been missing is finally here!

It’s soup! Or “souping” as they call it at Soupure, the LA-based soup company that has revolutionized the way we think about soup and has taken it to a “whole” new level. The Soupure line consists of hot and cold soups, bone broths, tonics and alkalized waters made from organic whole foods. Souping is all you need for the perfect cleanse, meal replacement, post work out beverage or family snack!

For years we’ve all tried to get it right. We’ve juiced, done the master cleanse and other liquid fad diet plans, thinking we had found the magic pill to lasting weight loss and health. And yes, while some had great results from juicing, many others were left feeling tired, bloated, and imbalanced from the lack of fiber and large amounts of sugar that many of the juice products contain. With so many pressed juice cleanses on the market, you would think juices have all the answers. But, many pressed juices throw away the fiber matrix and reduce most fruits to simple sugars leaving your liver and kidneys imbalanced and overworked. This can be especially hard for those dealing with any kind of blood sugar challenges, like diabetes.

While some may benefit from juicing, EVERYONE can benefit from souping! Soup cleansing is a totally different program than juicing because you actually get to eat! Soupure floods your body with nutrient rich power foods exactly when your body needs them.

And, it does so while gently clearing out toxins, promoting weight loss, and supporting improved overall health.

In my professional opinion, Angela Blatteis and Vivienne Vella, the founders and creators of Soupure, have brought us the next “BIG thing!” With their great tasting, high quality, nutritious, done-foryou soup line, Soupure has given us all the ability to consume a truly delicious and healthy on-the-go meal, snack or beverage and to do a cleanse with ease and grace. And the great news, souping is for everyone - the young, the elderly, busy moms, entrepreneurs, athletes, college students, those looking for an on-the-go healthy meal or beverage for themselves and their family, those looking for a healthy weight loss plan and even those healing from surgeries and medical treatments.

“It’s time to rock your body, get your Soup ON!” Soupure 13050 San Vicente Blvd, CA 90049 soupure.com

Text focus to 313131 to watch the interview with Soupure founders Vivienne Vella and Angela Blatteis. focusmag.us/tv/soupure

38 FOCUS | J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 5

About the author: Marlyn Diaz, an integrative nutritionist, speaker and age-defying, healthy lifestyle expert, helps her clients eat better and age younger! holisticnutritionista.com

Why Soup?

Let’s face it – we desire pleasure in our lives…especially when it comes to food. Otherwise, it can just get plain ole’ boring.

Consuming nourishing soups from Soupure, like chilled strawberry and sprouted cashew, energizing 7 nut and seed rich Superhero or Japanese sweet potato with lemongrass is a great way to create a day of sweet, soothing and savory goodness.

One of the key things I’ve noticed about juicing, both personally and with my clients, is that although weight loss often occurs, once whole foods are added back into the diet, many gain back the weight. I have found this occurs much less on a soup cleanse, because we are still giving the body food and at the same time giving it a “break” from the heavy digestion of proteins and other processed foods, thus allowing energy to be freed up for healing and repair.

Most people lose several pounds while on a soup cleanse. In addition to weight loss, most customers report increased energy, improved mood, decreased gastrointestinal problems, and less fatigue. After trying this product myself, I’ve begun to share it with my clients.

One of them, a 55 year old male with blood sugar challenges, had hit a plateau on his weight loss plan and decided to try a three day soup cleanse hoping to push through to the next level.

The great news is that it worked!

After finishing his first soup cleanse and losing a few pounds

he did a second three day soup cleanse a month later in an effort to support his overall weight loss and optimum health. He shared that the ease, affordability, convenience, and delicious taste has all been a great addition to his newly adopted clean eating plan and healthy lifestyle.

Soup does a body good!

The wonderful thing about a great bowl of soup from Soupure is that it includes everything you need to feel and look your best, from the inside out, like protein, good fats, complex carbs, lots of fiber, and an array of colorful anti-inflammatory phytonutrients and antioxidants all designed to support greater health and well-being. In essence, it’s pure nourishment in an eco-friendly glass bottle! And with Soupure, it’s easy to get your daily recommended 3-4 servings of fruits and veggies.

Soup helps bring your sexy back!

At Soupure it’s all about looking and feeling your best and “getting your sexy back!” Clear, glowing skin. An aura of energy, vitality and well-being. A lean, fit body and a razor sharp mind! These qualities aren’t age dependent.

But they do largely depend upon your choices to eat and hydrate well. Eating soups made from the freshest ingredients, including fresh fruits, vegetables, healing herbs, spices and antioxidant packed superfoods is a great way to feel and look your sexy best all year long!

MODERN GLAM SOIREE | 01/2015

{Pretty lil Details} an Event Planning + Styling Boutique in Southern CA, put together this extravagant soiree just in time for New Year’s. With a modern Cinderella-esque feel, this glamorous, yet elegant event will leave you feeling sparkly, to say the least. Inspired by the timeless style of the 1950s but with new twists on classic traditions, Tali Marchefka incorporated her very own spin and created this MAGIC. Full of whimsical touches from start to finish including; a Coffee and Cronut Station (donuts + croissants), gold macaroons, designer gowns, marquee lights, artsy hair jewelry pieces, and timeless jewelry. This gallery has black tie written all over it! #CHEERS

Modern Glam Soirée TALI: Pretty lil Details: @pldliving SHARON: Knot Just Flowers: @knotjustflowers CANDICE AND DEBBIE: PRETTY VINTAGE TABLE: @pretty_vintage_table BETSI: photographer – @betsiewing LESLEY: Frost it Cupcakery: @frostitcakery POUYA: Dafina Jewelry:@dafinajewelry CLAUDIA: model – @claudiaethridge ANNA: model – @beachbarbie310 BRIANNA STONE: – model LONDON: hair extensions – @extensionsbylondon

RENE: hair stylist: @hairbyrenecortez HELENA: hair stylist – @redheadquarters CHRISTEN: make up artist – @artistry4life ELISSA: make up artist – @eruminer JAMES SHIPP: model: @ ANNELISE: model – @_annelisee_ ELIZABETH: model – @thelifeofbetty ANDY: Focus Magazine: @focus_magazine_ WEDDING GOWN DESIGNER – @diamondherby MIA: bridesmaid gown designer – @miabeverlyhills INVITATIONS BY FERIAL: @invitations_by_ferial

focusmag.us 39

HAPPENINGS | 01/2015

Happenings BALANCED BLONDE APP LAUNCH 13 November 2014 Equinox Sports Club, West LA

Text focus to 313131 to watch this video. focusmag.us/tv/thebalancedsoiree

40 FOCUS | J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 5

The Balanced Soiree was more than just a celebration of all of our hard work on The Balanced Blonde App; it was a gathering of like-minded, healthy, inspiring and supportive individuals and a place for all of us to relax, get to know each other, celebrate and hang out!

We had awesome raffle prizes from health and lifestyle brands I adore like Lulu Lemon, NutriBullet, 31 Bits, NOLA granola bars, Bon Affair champagne and more. We also had yummy cocktails to sip on from Veev vodka paired with Bai 5 antioxidant drinks and Paleta Potables mixers. And of course delicious Katsuya sushi to munch on‌ even though it went pretty quickly because people were so excited about it.

The night captured the essence of what I try to promote through The Balanced Blonde, which is an overwhelming sense of togetherness and support in the health community no matter what your dietary label, body shape, physical fitness level or health background is. We had yoga teachers, personal trainers, organic restaurant owners, superfood protein powder company owners (Hi, Sophie!) and health bloggers mixed in with people who are looking for more ways to incorporate healthy food and fitness into their lives.

It was so special for me to be able to look around the room and see all of these people coming together to celebrate the app and have a good time. My family was there and my mom came in from Northern California to support and enjoy. It meant the world to have everyone in one place. It was also awesome to meet my app developer’s friends and family, because he played just a big of a role in creating the app as I did, if not more. Cyrus Kiani, you rock!

And of course it was a blast to have Sophie Jaffe hosting and Andy Waldman taking photos and capturing the amazingness of the night. Equinox West LA was the best venue, and if I could live the night again and again I would be the happiest girl!

Jordan Younger theblondevegan.com

HAPPENINGS | 01/2015

BANC OF CALIFORNIA TURKEY TROT 27 November, 2014 Pacific Palisades

The annual Banc of California Turkey Trot 5K run to aid Hearts with Hope Foundation, hosted by actress Sandra Taylor. The race’s starting official was Catherine Bach, Daisy Duke from Dukes of Hazzard

Text focus to 313131 to watch this video. focusmag.us/tv/turkeytrot focusmag.us 41

HAPPENINGS | 01/2015

LIGHT UP THE NIGHT 24 October 2014 The Buffalo Club, Santa Monica

The Matthew Silverman Memorial Foundation hosted its first annual Light Up the Night for Suicide Awareness White Party. Young Hollywood came together dressed to impress to help raise awareness of suicide in a fun yet respectable setting. Â A live performance by Lukas Nelson ended in a beautiful candlelit moment for all those who lost their lives to suicide.

LIGHT WATKINS 2 December 2014 Unplug Meditation, Brentwood

Suze YalofSchwartz hosted a conversation with Light Watkins, and a signing of his new book The Inner Gym at Unplug Meditation.

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DOG ADOPTION | 01/2015

Dogs In Need of A Home

LEAH

Female 7 yrs old Cockerpoo She is very special and looking for her forever home.

at 5 months

LILY

Female 1 yr old Maltese Yorkie

EMMA

Female 1 yr old Chihuahua

Had a broken leg and Sweet and tiny, loves is now healed, thanks dogs but LOVES to her wonderful humans foster!

NOAH

at 6 months

at 5 months

HOPE

WINSTON

SAM

Female 7 yrs old Chihuahua

Male 6 yrs old Chihuahua

Male 5 yrs old Chihuahua

She is the sweetest dog who gives nonstop kisses

The sweetest little boy

He is sweet and his tail never stops wagging

ABBY

at 6 months

at 5 months

MARY

at 6 months

BEFORE and AFTER – Siblings Noah, Abby, and Mary are our miracle babies. The result of inbreeding, Saving K9 Lives Plus convinced their owner to surrender them after learning they were starved and neglected and had many physical and health issues. One of their siblings died from malnourishment. Saving K9 Lives Plus donated the cost to spay and neuter the parents of Noah, Abby and Mary, still living with the owner. With lots of love and care, just two months later they are thriving! If you would like to adopt, or help with their medical or physical therapy costs, visit savingk9livesplus.org

CAIDEN

MIA

PORSCHA

Female x yrs old Chihuahua Beagle Mix

Female 1 yr old Havanese Terrier

Female 4 yr old Poodle

Raised 5 puppies which have since been adopted

Gave birth to 6 healthy puppies, and now looking for a forever home

Her back legs were paralyzed but Porscha is getting homeopathic and physical therapy.

These cute dogs were rescued from area shelters and are in need of love, hugs, and a HOME! Focus Magazine , together with Saving K9 Lives Plus, will proudly donate the full adoption fee paid by anyone choosing to add one of these adorable pets to their family, enabling this amazing organization to rescue another dog. With your help we can save twice the number of dogs on this page! As an added bonus, Focus magazine will feature your new, precious family member in an upcoming issue.

savingk9livesplus.org

Rescue these wonderful dogs today with Focus Magazine’s pledge to #payitforward Find out more from: Jackie Goodman jaclyndgoodman@gmail.com

YEAR IN REVIEW | 12/2013 - 12/2014

DO THE HUSTLE - 05/2014

ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT - 08/2014

Maia Suckle’s account of her experiences during Awards season, rooting for her husband’s winning movie, American Hustle.

A behind the scenes tour of the ET studio with Brooke Anderson in between filming her daily show.

Year in Review EDITOR’S PICK OF 2014

READ ARCHIVES ONLINE: focusmag.us/online-issue

GOLLY MISS MOLLY 06/2014 The Whitney English interview with Molly Sims.

PHILIP WOLFF - 08/2014 A fascinating interview with Philip Wolff, hair stylist to celebrities like Halle Berry and Quentin Tarantino.

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DECEMBER 2014

OCTOBER 2014

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JUNE 2014

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SAMARA WOLPE - 05/2014

WINNING... - 10/2014

AFTER ARTHRITIS - 08/2014 FOOD TALK - 11/2014

The heart warming and emotional An interview with the ‘bad’ girl of The Dancer and model, Jesse Golden story of a teenager who raised money Bachelor, Courtney Robertson. was struck down with arthritis in her to cure her father’s cancer.

20s, and is now a mentor for those who are similarly afflicted.

Six foodies, including Sopranos actor Louis Lombardi, discuss the restaurants they like to frequent and their favorite meals.

HOME & FAMILY - 11/2014

JULIA CONLEY - 06/2014

SUPER SATURDAY - 06/2014

Host of the Hallmark Channel’s Home & Family, Mark Steines, allowed us to follow him on set during filming.

Model, Julia Conley’s dissertation on how to behave like a lady.

Coverage of the charity based, Super Saturday event in the Summer.

LIPSTICK SISTER - 08/2014

FAST FOCUS: SANDRA TAYLOR - 11/2014

Hensi Morris, founder of Lipstick Sister, talked to us about how and why she set up the influential women’s network.

A portrait of actress Sandra Taylor through the favorite things she owns and admires.

focusmag.us 45

EV E N T C OV E RAG E Focus Events is a division of Focus Media Agency, which publishes the Focus magazine. As part of our event coverage for businesses and charities, we offer a customizable service of event graphics, photography, video footage, red carpet and a dedicated reporter for your event.

Please email us at events@focusmag.us for more information and to discuss your requirements.

REAL ESTATE

OPENINGS/PRODUCT LAUNCHES

CHARITY EVENTS

Video coverage of party for realtor to

HERITAGE WINES STORE OPENING 9400 S Santa Monica Blvd

TROT Pacific Palisades

showcase new construction.

Coverage of store opening in Beverly Hills

Video coverage/photo gallery

Video coverage/interviewer/photo gallery

Red carpet coverage of 5K Thanksgiving, charity-based event.

focusmag.us/tv/hamptonsinla

focusmag.us/tv/heritagewines

580 CHAUTAUQUA BLVD Pacific Palisades

BANC OF CALIFORNIA TURKEY

Co-branded/banner/Red Carpet/ Interviewer/ Video coverage/Photo gallery focusmag.us/turkeytrot

EVENTS

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INSTAGRAM COMPETITION Post to Instagram your most inventive pic, with the magazine in view and a great caption, and tag it with #lovefocus.

Or send it to: photos@focusmag.us The winner will get this beautiful necklace created for us by Stella & Bow. Also available for purchase in our Boutique – focusmag.us/boutique

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focusmag.us/getfocus Complimentary copies of Focus magazine are available upon request at these places.

BRENTWOOD

BEL AIR

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Coral Tree Cafe 11645 San Vicente Blvd Los Angeles CA 90049

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Servis and Taylor Brentwood Gardens 11677 San Vicente Blvd Ste. 110, Los Angeles, CA 90049

Shu 2932 Beverly Glen Circle CA 90077

Eden by Eden Sassoon 8600 W. Sunset Boulevard West Hollywood CA 90069

Christophe 348 N Beverly Dr Beverly Hills CA 90210

Kinsley 1009 Broxton Ave Westwood CA 90025

SHERMAN OAKS

Shades Salon 144 S Doheny Dr Beverly Hills CA 90211

MARINA DEL RAY

Sweet Crush 11753 San Vicente Blvd Los Angeles CA 90049

SANTA MONICA

Gloria S 11624 Chayote St Los Angeles CA 90049 Brentwood Library 11820 San Vicente Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90049

Unplug Meditation 12401 Wilshire Blvd Suite 101, Los Angeles CA 90025 Kinsley 395 Santa Monica Place Santa Monica CA 90025

Kinsley Westfield Mall 14006 Riverside Drive Sherman Oaks CA 91604 STUDIO CITY

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LA HOME magazine showcases the unique and diverse homes and life in Los Angeles, California. It’s a source of inspiration and aspiration – with in-depth interviews, home tours and tips from the best interior designers, architects, landscape designers, art dealers and product designers who shape the culture and habitat of our city.

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