SANDIEGOLIVING VOL XXXVI • NO. 3 • EVEN • MAY/JUNE 2015 SANDIEGOLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
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Your Own Unique Piece Of Living Art: Sculpted Olive Trees Increase Your Curb Appeal With Concrete Coatings A Green Clean Lawn That Doesn’t Require Any Water Rejuvenate Your Entire Home With Interior And Exterior Painting Evict Termites Without Leaving Your Home Concrete Resurfacing: An Easy And Affordable Way To Give Your Driveway, Patio, or Pool Deck A Fresh New Look Professional Barbeque Cleaning Protects Your Investment And Makes Food Taste Better Veneer Stones: Real Vs. Manufactured
Avoid Indoor Air Quality Problems. Clean Your Air Ducts Stairs Keeping You Down? Avoid High Energy Bills. Here’s How To Save
Finding The Best Organic Produce Has Never Been Easier!
Contents 14 Looking For A Fast And Affordable Kitchen Makeover?
16 - 18 Get Your Home Ready For Spring Marchella Carsona Collection: High-End Traditional Look At Affordable Pricing
23 - 25 Storage Solutions–Consider Adding An Attic, Loft, Or Storage Shed Granny Flats, Guest House, Or Income Property–You Decide... Redefine Your Living Space With Custom Tile Designs
26 - 38 Relaxation And Luxury With Your Own Cedar Garden Room Reconsider That Summer Vacation And Invest In Your Own Backyard Pool Paradise
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A Personal Virtual Assistant That’s Always Ready To Help
42 - 47 Get Rid Of That Stubborn Fat Without Any Surgery Reveal A More Radiant You–Professional Intraceuticals Treatments Brows That Wow. Effortless Eyebrows Help You Look And Feel Beautiful What If Every Day Could Be A Good Hair Day? Now, It Can! Reshape Your Body In 20 Minutes!
ON THE COVER
Featured on the cover is an exquisite and rare sculpted olive tree—an element that can make the perfect addition to a landscape, as you can see in this Del Mar home. The homeowner wanted to make a bold statement and add character to the corner of his property. These drought tolerant trees no longer produce fruit, and stay the same size from the day they are installed. They can be put into the ground or kept above ground, and offer a variety of shapes and looks. For more information you can call Olive A Dream Trees at 800-816-1783 or 760-695-7444. You can also see their article on page 29, or visit them online at www.oliveadreamtrees.com. Photography by RTK Fine Art Photography
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Reach Your Best Buyers Do you want to use your advertising dollars where they will be most beneficial? Getting your company’s message out to homeowners that are interested in upgrading their home and lifestyle can increase your sales at a very economical price per household. Advertisers can utilize the attractive format of San Diego Living to reach qualified buyers that are interested in the products and services they sell.
SANDIEGOLIVING PUBLISHER WALLY HICKS III ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER DAVE BAKER
For more information on how we can help you grow your business, you can call:
PRODUCTION MANAGERS DAWN DOWLATSHAHI, DAVID MARCHAND
Dave Baker (619) 296-9305
WRITER/COPY EDITOR CAITLIN FEENER MARKETING MANAGER DEBBIE TARNOFF HOME FURNISHINGS DIRECTOR DEBORAH MESNA MARKETING SPECIALISTS GLENDA BAYLY, JENNIFER BURKE PUBLISHER’S REPRESENTATIVES MARKET LINK ACCOUNTING MAI HUONG THI LE ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR SARAH CARLISLE CONTRIBUTING WRITER CATHY BAKER PHOTOGRAPHY ALLEN CARRASCO, MARVIN SLOBEN
SAN DIEGO OFFICE DAVE BAKER 619/296-9305 1081 CAMINO DEL RIO SO. STE. 224 SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA 92108 ADVERTISING MAILING ADDRESS Affluent Target Marketing, Inc. P.O. Box 18507 Anaheim Hills, California 92817-8507 (714) 446-6280 FAX (714) 446-6294 (888) 612-7400
www.affluenttargetmarketing.com For comments to the publisher: wally@keyaccess.com The opinions expressed in the editorials are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of San Diego Living. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, we cannot supervise the way in which information found in San Diego Living is used. San Diego Living is produced bi-monthly by Affluent Target Marketing, Inc., P.O. Box 18507, Anaheim Hills, California 92817-8507. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. All submitted materials, including images, logos, and text, for advertising and editorial are assumed to be the property of the provider, and Affluent Living Publications can take no responsibility for unintentional copyright infringement. Affluent Target Marketing, Inc. has the right to refuse advertising. CIRCULATION VERIFIED BY U.S. POSTAL RECEIPTS
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Quality Cabinet Painting and Refinishing Is the Perfect Solution for You!
Looking For a Fast and Affordable
Kitchen Makeover?
m
ost homeowners will agree that the most eye-catching part of your kitchen is its cabinetry. So it would make sense that in order to spruce things up and give your kitchen an updated feel all you need to do is alter the exterior facade of your current cabinets. Most kitchen remodels such as designing and installing brand new cabinets or refacing have proven to be rather expensive and time consuming. Why not skip all of the hassles and make the smart decision to have your cabinetry custom painted? This way you’ll be able to give your kitchen a beautiful new look for much less than you ever imagined. Custom cabinet painting and refinishing allows you to not only incorporate fresh colors and modern trends into your kitchen, but it can also renew
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the sparkling factory-finished look your classic, well-made cabinetry once had. Your cabinets will be thoroughly prepped, cleaned, and painted or stripped, stained, and finished to perfection. Select from a variety of antique glazes or clean white colors to achieve the classic or contemporary look you desire. Once your cabinets are refurbished you can further complement your new kitchen by simply adding a few fashionable hardware accents. You will save thousands of dollars while increasing the value of your home with this effortless but stunning remodel. For further information on custom cabinet painting and refinishing, you can call Palmer Painting at 619-460-3985 or 858-452-4314. You can also visit their website at www.palmerpainting.com. Palmer Painting also offers faux finishes for garage doors, as well as entry door refinishing. ONLINE AT SANDIEGOLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
homefashion
ith the warmer season approaching, sweep away those winter cobwebs and refresh your home with a few spring spruce-ups. While some may get overwhelmed with the daunting task of a major cleaning, try these easy tips from Sally Morse, Director of Creative Services at Hunter Douglas, to create a brighter, lighter, more organized home. 1. Clear Away. If cleaning and clearing away the clutter seems overwhelming, Morse has one simple trick to calm the nerves. “Try setting the kitchen timer for 15 minutes per area, like the bedroom closet, pantry or foyer. Telling yourself you’re going to de-clutter the home in one weekend sounds draining,” she says. “Rather, split up the tasks into smaller ones so you stay focused and don’t get lost in the process.” Make a list of all the areas you have to organize and space it out over a few days. 2. Welcome in Springtime Light. One impactful décor change that can easily be made is to update your window treatments. The right window fashions in your home will not only look stylish and beautifully filter light for a glowing room, but also provide a host of practical benefits such as energy-efficiency, UV-protection, sound absorption and more. One of the many suitable options is Hunter Douglas Silhouette® window shadings, which feature soft fabric vanes that rotate for variable light control and privacy that are suspended between two sheer facings to diffuse incoming light and preserve the view. 3. Bring Nature In. As Mother Earth comes to life again it’s a great time to bring that life indoors with easy-to-maintain plants and flowers. Try the cast-iron Japanese perennial, one of the toughest species available. Nearly indestructible, it withstands low light, low humidity and a wide range of temperatures. Also, try adding pastel bouquets of lilac, forsythia and narcissus to spread a cheerful dose of color around the home.
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4. Lemony Fresh. Appeal to all five senses with this year’s spring updates. After your initial scrub and, sorting and clearing of clutter, extend that fresh scent by adding a lemon-scented diffuser. You can, of course, easily purchase one, but for a fun DIY project, try creating a citrus diffuser at home. 5. Lighter Linens. For one spring refresher that goes a long way, try brightening up your home with lighter fabrics. This update can awaken nearly every room from the living room, bedroom and bathroom to the kitchen. Morse advises also bringing a soft texture to the window by opting for energysaving Hunter Douglas Duette® Architella® honeycomb shades. These shades offer dozens of color and design choices for a range of high-design possibilities with fabrics that are gentle to the touch as well. With a little work and a few additions, you can happily welcome in the new season with a clean, orderly, beautiful home. To see a variety of different Hunter Douglas products, you can visit California Shutters and Shades, an authorized Hunter Douglas Window Fashions dealer at 3146 Tiger Run Ct. Ste. 104 Carlsbad, Ca 92010. You can call them at 760-712-3121 for more information, as well as get news about the new iPad application, or you can visit their website at www.calshuttersandshades.com.
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homefashion
Marchella Carsona Collection:
HIGH-END TRADITIONAL LOOK AT AFFORDABLE PRICING
D
iscover elegance in a whole new way with the Marchella Carsona furniture collection. The lush texture and movement that embodies each piece makes Marchella Carsona a collection that is suitable for a king or a queen. Beautiful and baroque in style, Marchella Carsona can add sophistication to your interior. Crafted with exquisite attention to detail, each piece is rich and has the potential to drastically transform a room with its bold presence. Intricate and elaborate decorations and patterns are balanced with curvaceous legs and frames, and a royal mix of deep dark woods with gold hardware and artistic accents makes this robust collection a one-of-a-kind addition to your home. Marchella Carsona offers furniture for the dining room, living room, and bedroom. Your home will feel more like a palace once you have incorporated this tasteful and romantic collection into your living space. To see more from this collection, and other fine furniture manufacturers, you can call or visit Furniture Royal at 2000 S. Rainbow Blvd. in Las Vegas. 702-253-0600. You can also see their ad on page 17 of this issue.
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homeinteriors Avoid Indoor Air Quality Problems
Clean Your Air Ducts
O
ne of the most important systems in your home is your HVAC system. It allows you to stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter and provides air circulation and ventilation throughout your home. While this system is largely out of sight and out of mind, it is essential to hire a company to complete air duct cleaning on an annual basis. There are several air duct cleaning benefits that you may not have stopped to consider. However, once your HVAC duct system stops working efficiently, you will very quickly begin to realize just how essential this component is to your comfort, health, and even your safety. Allergies, Asthma and Respiratory Problems. When homeowners don’t routinely complete air duct cleaning through a professional service, individuals in the home with any type of respiratory health issues often pay a very big price. This can include more frequent and severe asthma attacks, increased allergic reactions for those that are sensitive to dust, mold and mildew, and increased illness. By cleaning your ductwork annually dust, mold spores, allergens and contaminants that collect in the ducts are efficiently and effectively removed.
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Energy Efficiency Boost. When a system is clean and free from dust, debris, and build-up, the airflow is going to be more consistent. This will help heat and cool your home quickly, which means a decrease in energy required to keep the temperature just right. Removing Odors. Even in a very clean and well-maintained home, the inside of your ducts collect dirt, contaminants from the air, spores and pollen and even mildew, mold and bacteria. Over time this can also create odors as the organic material collects in your system. Routine air duct cleaning removes all these contaminants, and also removes related odors. This leaves your home smelling clean and fresh while also promoting energy efficiency and good respiratory health. For more information, you can call Nick's Dryer Vent Cleaning at 760-533-0783 or visit www.oceansideairductcleaning.com to schedule a cleaning.
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homeinteriors
Stairs Keeping You Down?
Discover the Convenience of a Custom Home Elevator, Wheelchair Lift or Stairclimber
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our home should be a comfortable environment tailored to your needs, and when your needs change, so should your home. Many disabled and elderly people find that every year getting up those stairs becomes more and more challenging. Some homeowners might even have to relocate their living quarters to the first floor, because they are physically unable to climb the stairs. This is no way to enjoy your home, and thankfully there are ways to remedy this situation. A custom home elevator, wheelchair lift or stairclimber could be the perfect solution, allowing everyone in your family to navigate your home with ease. When you decide that it is the right time to start your home elevator remodeling project, professional contractors will come to your
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home and evaluate your living space. They will discuss all possible locations for your elevator, and options such as size, materials and appearance. Every aspect of your elevator will be completely customized to ensure that your unique wants and needs are accommodated. Not only will the elevator contractors go over every detail of the plans with you, they will also obtain all necessary permits, and make sure every modification done to your home meets applicable building codes and zoning laws. Putting an elevator, wheelchair lift or stairclimber in your home is all about making life easier, and the right contractor
will make sure that the process of installing your elevator is easy as possible too. For more information on custom home elevators, wheelchair lifts, stairclimbers or dumbwaiters, you can contact the RIFE CO., a reliable contractor with over 15 years experience, at 619-300-9645. You can also visit them online at www.therifeco.com
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homeinteriors
Avoid High Energy Bills
Here’s How to Save
W
hen you come home after a long day at work and it’s been hot outside, the first thing you probably do when you walk into that hot and muggy home is flip on the air conditioning. However, the truth is, once the daytime heat has subsided and the evening air has reached a much cooler temperature, you are unfortunately wasting both energy and money by keeping the air conditioner running all night long to cool your home. Why not efficiently utilize the cooler air outside in the evening or in the early morning instead of wasting energy trying to cool down your hot home? Now, you can keep your home efficiently comfortable with the innovative QuietCool whole-house fan system. With a QuietCool system, your air conditioning will not turn on throughout the night, saving you lots of money on those electricity bills. Not only does a QuietCool system cool an entire home by up to 30degrees, but it works quickly so that you will feel 10-degrees cooler in an instant. First, the cool breeze begins when a window or two is opened and the QuietCool fan is turned on. Air will be carried through the windows to create a breeze inside the home so you can feel the temperature difference
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right away. That cooler outdoor air will be brought through the QuietCool fan, and pushed through the attic vents, causing the hot stale air in the attic to be exhausted. This step is crucial to ensuring that your home remains comfortable throughout the day. Along with saving money on your energy bill while still being able to cool your home, the QuietCool system exchanges the entire volume of air inside your home 15–20 times, per hour. You and your family will be able to breathe fresh air continually, control mold and mildew, and reduce airborne sickness in your ventilated home. Not to mention, QuietCool systems are pleasantly silent. For more information on a QuietCool whole house fan system for your home, you can call Nick’s Dryer Vent & Air Duct Cleaning at 760-533-0783. You can learn more about their services online at www.oceansideairductcleaning.com.
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homeremodeling
s your house and closet cluttered with seasonal items that only come out for a few weeks at a time? Is your car, one of your most valuable assets, exposed to the harsh outside elements because your garage is filled with clutter? The truth is, who isn’t in need of extra storage space? Just about every homeowner is constantly trying to get organized and simply find more space. Luckily, there are innovative solutions to creating easy and accessible storage space for all of your important possessions. Professionals can use their expertise to find those unused spaces in your home that can be developed into something valuable. Some of the amazing storage options available include creating an attic space, utilizing a crawlspace under stairs, developing loft areas, organizing garage rafters efficiently, and even building a custom outdoor storage shed. These spaces can hide away your holiday decorations, seasonal clothing, and can even safely stow away your valuable collectibles. You will never again be forced to search through a mass of clutter, trying to find what you need. Instead, you can have easy access storage anywhere in your home, utilizing all of the things you treasure and could never seem to find before.
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If you are ready to add some more needed space to your home, AOC Construction Inc. can help you with all of your storage needs. AOC Construction is a full service general contracting firm that has been serving the San Diego area since 1975. For more information, you can call them at 619-226-0772 or visit their website at www.AOCConstruction.com. Lic. #509713.
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homeremodeling
Guest House,
or Income Property–You Decide...
H
ave you always wanted a separate place to be able to put your family or guests while they are visiting? Or, perhaps you have wanted a place on your property to rent out and generate cash flow. If this sounds familiar, than a granny flat or guesthouse might be just the solution for you. These hot new trends are often built above the garage, or by converting the existing garage. These structures can also be built separately in the backyard. Additions of this type are equipped with necessary modern amenities, such as separate kitchens, private bathrooms, comfortable bedrooms, and even a significant living area. A granny flat allows you to have the perfect balance of privacy. It keeps your family members involved in family life, yet still gives them a sense of independence. These spaces are great for older family members who are not quite ready for assisted living, or even a young adult looking to get back onto their feet. No matter the reason, this investment might just be the perfect addition for you. For more information, you can contact A.O.C. Construction, Inc. at 619-226-0772, email them at info@aocconstruction.com, or visit their website at www.aocconstruction.com.
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homeremodeling Redefine Your Living Space with Custom Tile Designs
I
t’s the time of year when homeowners start to look around their living spaces and dream about change. With spring and summer comes the urge to upgrade and transform, and whether you plan on having guests over for summer get-togethers or are simply getting bored with your surroundings, you might be pondering the different options on how to go about giving your home a new look. One of the most efficient ways to completely transform an environment, whether interior or exterior, is with a stunning tile makeover. From the kitchen to the back patio, a custom tile creation can take any area of the home and turn it into an artistic masterpiece. Natural stone can add a touch of old world craftsmanship to any surface. Marble, travertine, limestone, onyx, slate, and more can give any area of the home a dramatic makeover. Another option, ceramic tile is durable, low-maintenance and easy to clean. Ceramic is also a good choice for high traffic areas. If you are looking to brighten up a space, glass tile reflects light and can create an artistic focal point for any area of your home. Glass is also durable, stain-resistant, and easy-to-clean. A tile professional can listen to your needs and work with you to create the ideal space. When you work with a tile contractor who is also an artist, you have the advantage of being able to participate in the actual design process. This
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eliminates any surprises, allowing you to see sketches, drawings, and more before anything is built. Alexander Sanchez with Custom Creations by Alexander is a licensed tile contractor who can work with you to create the home environment of your dreams, offering custom tile installation for bathrooms, kitchens, pools, barbecues, patios, and much more. Whether you have a specific concept, such as a sophisticated subway pattern for your kitchen or luxurious stone veneer for your outdoor entryway, or don’t know where to start, Alexander will study your space and use his expertise and background in art to create a unique plan for you. For more information, you can call them at 619-395-5102 or visit www.customcreationsbyalex.com.
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homefashion
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Spending quality time outdoors with friends and family is an invaluable experience, but relaxing outdoors in luxury is even better. Extending a living space to the backyard is something that many homeowners continue to invest in because it essentially allows you to add an extra room to your home. And when it’s an enclosed outdoor environment that keeps you protected from the elements of nature, the investment is even wiser because you can enjoy your new room all year long. Perhaps you have always wanted to entertain, but never had the perfect space to do so. Or maybe you have invested so much time and money into creating the most beautiful landscape and garden, yet you aren’t able to enjoy it 365 days a year. Imagine having a luxurious garden room in your backyard where you can lounge on a comfortable couch and share a bottle of wine with a loved one while gazing at the starry night sky together. And the best part is—you didn’t have to do a thing to create this magical space. Vacationing in your own backyard has never been more convenient. Now, you can have a fully furnished and all-inclusive cedar garden room delivered right to your home. The incredible cedar room will be built, furnished, and fully equipped when it arrives, so the only thing you will have to do is tell the professionals where you want it installed. When it comes to selecting your ideal cedar garden room, there are different models available for you to choose from. A popular choice with homeowners, the Buckingham is the ultimate outdoor cedar garden room and can be used for an array of functions. This option includes a luxurious lounging area, large coffee table with a glass top, an elegant dining table that seats eight people and includes a toughened glass top and glass lazy Susan, infrared heating, lighting, a beautiful ceiling fan, widescreen television, and a handcrafted cabinet that comes fully equipped with a wine cooler. Marine-grade Sunbrella® canvas blinds with the option of windows can be zipped together, completely closing the entire garden room so that you can entertain, come rain or shine. For a slightly smaller option, the cedar Belvedere garden room is perfectly suited for al fresco dining. An octagonal table combined with deep seating provides a setting both comfortable and relaxing for any occasion, and can seat up to eight people. Infrared heating and Sunbrella canvas panels provide warmth and protection.
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exteriorslandscaping Two of the newest options include the spa gazebo, which allows you to take the relaxation up a notch with a beautiful hot tub, and the Cambridge garden room, which is even larger than the Buckingham. If you can’t find your perfect match, cedar garden rooms can be customized. You can even extend your home with a cedar room attached to the house. Finding space to entertain will be a thing of the past—from Thanksgiving dinner to Super Bowl parties, your fully equipped cedar garden room will be the new destination for get-togethers. Yet, this can also be a private, quiet space, ideal for a romantic anniversary dinner or to make an important business call. One of the benefits of a luxury garden room that can be used all year long is its versatility. You can make it the space that you need it to be: a sauna, gym, office, lounging area, dining room, movie room, and more. Each quality garden room is carefully handcrafted in California using Canadian red cedar—one of the world’s most durable woods. Naturally resistant to moisture, decay, and insect damage makes it an ideal choice for outdoor structures. Sunbrella fabrics provide the ideal combination of fashion, durability, and weather resistance. Roll the Sunbrella fabric up to allow the sun inside, or zip it together and turn on the heat lamp for a warm, cozy retreat. Sunbrella is known for its durability, water repellency, breathability, and gorgeous style.
Finally, one of the most unique aspects of your new cedar garden room is the service. After your allinclusive room has been installed, professionals will continue to follow up with your garden room so it looks good as new. For the next 20 years, professionals will visit every three years to re-sand, re-oil, and carefully maintain your garden room so it remains a beautiful and functional fixture in your yard. Also, you can relocate your cedar garden room. Each room is classed as a temporary structure, so you can move it from property to property without being faced with permit issues. If you are ready to sit back, relax, and enjoy your own high quality cedar garden room, then Kensington Garden Rooms LLC can help. At Kensington, some of the top American and British carpenters have joined forces to create the world’s number one cedar garden rooms. Careful eyes watch over every aspect of each project, from conception to completion, and the exceptional service continues for several years after your unit has been installed. For more information, you can call them at 888-825-9111 or visit www.KensingtonGardenRooms.com. ONLINE AT SANDIEGOLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
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exteriorslandscaping
Reconsider That Summer Vacation
And Invest In Your Own Backyard Pool Paradise
Before
P
lanning that next family vacation is an event that everyone looks forward to. You’ve been saving up your money so that you can truly splurge when the time comes to escape and do nothing but relax and have fun with loved ones. However, once the vacation is over, it’s nothing but a mere memory. Imagine the possibilities if you invested that money into something that doesn’t go away, but in fact allows you to enjoy paradise any time you want! Creating a private resort-like environment in your own backyard is the ideal solution for homeowners who truly love to get away. A backyard haven complete with a custom pool and spa will provide a lifetime of memories, enjoyment, and leisure for everyone—your ideal resort destination will be right outside your back door. Whether you currently have a pool that doesn’t get much use, or are ready to put in a brand new pool, professionals can transform any existing outdoor living space into a place that the whole family won’t be able to get enough of. In fact, you might even completely forget about going on those expensive summer vacations. Imagine your ideal getaway spot—is it lush and tropical, a complete outdoor oasis that makes you feel like you’re on an island, or is it clean and modern, complete with artistic glass tiles and sophistication? Professionals can take your vision and turn it into reality, as well as offer design suggestions that enhance the feel you want to accomplish. From vanishing edge pools,
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After
tropical havens, straight-edged pools, and more, there are countless options to consider when creating your dream space. Along with design, one of the most important aspects to keep in mind when creating or remodeling your pool is efficiency. This applies to multiple stages of the pool planning process—you want energy efficiency, a system that you can efficiently control, plus efficient construction and maintenance. Professionals can even sync your system to your smart phone, tablet, or wireless device, allowing you to heat up the spa before you get home. Your oasis can be ready the moment you step outside—just like when you visit a hotel. Finally, you want to make sure that you hire a company that is not only trustworthy, but has the skills and expertise in creating the most cost effective quality design for your budget. Hiring a company that keeps most, if not all, of the work in-house with their own experienced team of employees is efficient. Whether you’re looking for brand new pool construction or pool rejuvenation, Presidio Pools is your local company that does it all, efficiently. Raised in San Diego, Rick Duffett, owner of Presidio Pools has over 30 years industry experience. He is a hands-on custom pool builder who prides himself in being involved every step of the way—a service that is rare to find. Specializing in custom pools, Presidio offers 3-D designs, water features, fire features, barbeques, swim-up bars, beach entries, vanishing edges, KOI ponds, fountains, and more. For more information, you can call them at 619-787-3880, or you can visit their website at www.PresidioPools.com. ONLINE AT SANDIEGOLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
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Sculpted Olive Trees
T
he olive tree is a timeless symbol of peace, perseverance, and strength. Celebrated for thousands of years, majestic olive trees are an ancient emblem of abundance and glory, and are among the oldest known cultivated trees in the world. The Macro-Bonsai, also known as sculpted olive trees, are some of the most remarkable living sculptures in the world. However, these trees cannot simply be acquired with a trip to the local nursery. In fact, they are extremely rare and have been nearly impossible to find in the United States—until now. You have the exclusive opportunity to showcase an exquisite piece of revered beauty in your own yard. After extensive searching, experts have located a selection of ancient olive trees and have transformed them into living works of art so that you and your family can enjoy their beauty for generations to come. An authentic piece of history, these sculpted olive trees are over 100 years old. Along with the completely unique touch of style that will set your home apart from all the rest, these dignified trees also offer many benefits to the homeowner. Sculpted olive trees are one of the only living components you can buy that will never get any bigger then it is on the day that you install it. This is just one of the reasons that makes these trees an incredibly low maintenance choice. Your incredible olive tree will create virtually no messes in your yard. Because these trees no longer produce any fruit, you don’t have to worry about constantly picking up stray olives and leaves scattered around your landscape. Additionally, sculpted olive trees are a wonderful idea for San Diego landscapes because they are drought-resistant—they thrive in the California climate. When you look out the window and see your artistic sculpted tree, you will feel as though you are in an exotic location as opposed to your own yard. Once you have ordered your sculpted olive tree, it will be delivered right to your door and installed. However, it’s important to know that these trees are of limited inventory due to their rarity. If you want to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own such an incredible antiquity, your time has arrived.
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Photography by: RTK Fine Art Photography
Olive A Dream Trees is proud to introduce to the American market the most striking landscape element to come along since the very first tree. Upon discovering this treasure while vacationing in Europe, the professionals at Olive A Dream Trees have been cultivating and sculpting olive trees so that you can have a masterpiece for your landscape. For more information, you can call them at 1-800-816-1783 or 760-695-7444, and you can also visit www.OliveADreamTrees.com.
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exteriorslandscaping
4,5).06.%&'() Curb Appeal +"#$ Concrete Coatings
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ear-round beautiful weather is only one of the reasons San Diego homeowners are among the luckiest in the world. Southern California’s coastal climate is ideal for exotic landscaping, and without the threat of snow, the options to expand and enhance your outdoor living space are virtually endless. Imagine your backyard as the ultimate paradise— primed for entertaining guests year-round. One of the best high-impact improvements you can invest in is decorative concrete. The classic beauty of concrete coatings can transform your ugly concrete into a work of art in just a few days. This timeless and elegant addition can enhance any décor, and significantly increase your home value. Homeowners can enjoy the look of tile, brick, pavers or stone without any tear out, and for a fraction of the cost. The coating is applied on top of your existing concrete, with a pigmented sealer to ensure long-lasting beauty and durability. The versatility of concrete coatings is truly remarkable. Whether you are going for the rustic charm of cobblestone, an elegant look like slate, or natural feel such as flagstone, concrete coatings can help
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create the perfect look for you. These extremely resilient coatings can stand up to vehicular traffic and are ideal for your driveway, patio, or walkways. There are also skid-resistant coatings available for your pool deck! You can even use concrete coatings for indoor application, and give your concrete floors a glamorous new look. With the right contractor your remodeling experience can be extremely painless. A knowledgeable estimator can come to your home and give you insight on the best options for your lifestyle, décor and budget. The estimator can show you different color palettes, make recommendations and guide you through the planning process. The actual application takes between two and four days for most jobs, and your backyard will have a whole new look before you know it. For more information on concrete coatings, please contact Allied Coatings at (888) 635-7186. With over 25 years experience, this family owned company is fully licensed and insured and can help you transform your backyard into your own personal paradise. For more information please visit their website at www.alliedcoatings.com ONLINE AT SANDIEGOLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
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MAY/JUNE 2015 • SAN DIEGO LIVING
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exteriorslandscaping
Clean Lawn
E
very homeowner wants to look out the window and see a lush, green lawn. However, because California is currently experiencing one of the most severe droughts on record, it may seem as though that picture perfect lawn is now officially an image of the past. Not only is that water bill going to keep going up, but you most likely want to play your role in regards to water conservation—which means throwing in the towel in regards to your healthy, vibrant grass. And then one day, you are driving home from work when out of nowhere, you are greeted with an unbelievably flawless green lawn in your neighbor’s yard—that beautiful lawn you have been forcing yourself to forget about because you thought it was no longer attainable. This is not a dream—the truth is that synthetic lawns are becoming one of the most popular home improvement products on the market. In the last five years, synthetic turf has progressed to look so realistic, it is preferred to actual grass. The natural look and feel, superior drainage, and long life expectancy make a synthetic lawn the perfect solution for homeowners that are forced to cut back on water usage, have difficulty keeping their landscapes up to expectation, or are simply tired of the time, effort, and costs required to do so. It’s crucial that a professional takes the time to listen to your yard needs in order to discover exactly what applications will work best for your property. Finding the right synthetic turf is a system that involves different components. For example, do you have pets, or will your children be playing on the lawn? Is your synthetic turf going to be in a high-traffic area, or do you want it simply for aesthetic reasons only? Residential landscaping turf comes in a variety of different colors and sizes so you can find the exact look that you desire. If you have pets, there is no better option. Synthetic turf products have been specifically designed for pets and will never stain or discolor. Your pets will also
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stay clean—no more muddy paw prints on the sofa or your clothing. Synthetic lawn is ideal for recreational applications as well, such as putting greens and playgrounds. Imagine walking outside to improve your golf game at any given moment, not to mention beautifully installed synthetic putting greens offer a manicured and flowing design that complements your entire landscape. If you want to upgrade your children’s playground area, specially designed turf products contain an underlying shock pad to help keep your family safe and provide protection against falls, cuts, and abrasions. You can rest assured that your children will be playing on the safest playground grass turf in the neighborhood, not to mention, you can say goodbye to grass stains and allergies. If you are ready to join the smiling faces that never have to worry about watering, fertilizing, and mowing ever again, then Home Turf is ready to help. Artificial grass from Home Turf requires very little maintenance and absolutely no water. From the San Diego Humane Society to UCSD, Home Turf has been the go-to choice for San Diegans since 2008. To learn more about their special HERO financing, or for a free estimate, you can call them at 858-633-0770 or visit www.sdhometurf.com. ONLINE AT SANDIEGOLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
exteriorslandscaping
With Interior and Exterior Painting s your home in need of a change? Choosing the perfect paint colors for both the interior and exterior of a home can define the entire feel of a space. The right colors will enhance the beauty of your décor, increase curb appeal, and create harmony and balance— whatever feeling a homeowner wishes to evoke. Nothing comes close to creating the same effect that a nice, fresh coat of paint achieves in a living room, bedroom, kitchen, or more. This single element can completely transform the entire look and feel of a space. Think about what feelings you want to express— warm colors, such as red, can create an invigorating mood and work great for large spaces, while cool blues, greens, or grays offer a serene feeling and enhance space in smaller rooms. If you want to upgrade your exterior space, new paint is also just as effective outdoors. When exterior paint for your home is done the right way by reliable and trustworthy professionals, it will be as strong and functional as it is beautiful. A properly executed paint project will protect your home from the weather, ensuring that your home will continue to look flawless, all year long.
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Kris Nielsen Painting is a Carlsbad-based home improvement contractor that provides both interior and exterior paint services. Born and raised in San Diego, owner Kris Nielsen has been licensed for over 10 years and is personally involved with each project. Offering full-coverage insurance with general liability and workman’s compensation, you can place your full trust in Kris Nielsen Painting. For a free consultation, you can call them at 760-840-8401 or visit www.KrisNielsenPainting.com.
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exteriorslandscaping
Evict Termites Without Leaving Your Home
T
ermites are among the most destructive pests in the United States, causing property damage to 600,000 homeowners each year. Although you have no choice when the termites move into your home, you have many different choices once you discover them. Twenty years ago homeowners didn’t have many choices, and tent fumigation was the standard extermination method for termites. This outdated method entails moving out of your home for three and a half days while a dangerous amount of toxic gas is pumped into your home. Homeowners who choose tent fumigation are forced to pay for three days worth of lodging, dining and pet boarding, as well as pack or discard all the food and medicine in their home. Not only is tent fumigation incredibly inconvenient, it also leaves a huge footprint on the environment. The chemicals used for fumigation have been identified by the California Air Resources Board as Toxic Air Contaminants, and have a harmful and long-lasting impact on the ozone layer. Fortunately there is an affordable, eco-friendly and effective alternative that won’t displace you from your home. XT-2000 Orange Oil® Plus is a revolutionary, scientifically proven product used by IPM companies to control termites. This innovative formula is 95% pure orange oil, a natural termite pesticide made from pressed and distilled orange rinds. With orange oil, you get rid of your termites with the same guaranteed results as fumigation while still enjoying the comforts of home. Trained technicians come to your home and perform a thorough inspection to detect the termite colonies. Using a high-tech optical scope, the technician can determine the extent to the infestation and inject orange oil directly into the infested wood members, killing the termites on contact. The fumes also act as a neurotoxin to the termites, creating a pleasant orange fragrance that humans smell without any effect. A remarkable property of orange oil is its ability to wick
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through wood, traveling through the porous cells in all directions. Therefore, orange oil not only treats the areas into which it was injected, but will soak into surrounding areas providing a superior termite protection. For more information on XT-2000 Orange Oil® Plus, or to find a certified Pest Control operator, you can call (866) 870-8485. XT-2000 has been in business since 2004, and they have treated over half a million structures, including homes, apartments, schools, commercial buildings, and more. Orange Oil Plus is 95% pure orange oil— beware of imposter products that contain only trace amounts of orange oil but also contain hazardous petroleum distillates. XT-2000 Orange OIl professionals are certified XT-2000 Orange Oil experts. They go through a required vigorous training program and have annual training updates. Very few pest control products are as vigorously controlled, so when looking for a pest control professional be sure they are a Certified XT-2000 affiliate by visiting their website at www.xt2000.com ONLINE AT SANDIEGOLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
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exteriorslandscaping
Concrete Resurfacing: An Easy and Affordable Way to Give Your Driveway, Patio, or Pool Deck a Fresh New Look
a
re you tired of ugly, discolored concrete marring your driveway, patio, and pool deck? Damaged concrete can heavily distract from the overall beauty of your home, however Before replacing it can be a lengthy and expensive process. The inconvenience and expense of having concrete replaced is simply too much for most homeowners. Thankfully, there are other options! Concrete resurfacing is a cost-effective alternative to replacing your damaged concrete. Resurfacing allows you to keep your concrete foundation and still achieve a brand-new look. Whether you have cracks and stains in your driveway or crave a bold new look for your patio, this is an excellent option for all homeowners to consider. Patio with stamped, stained overlay The overlay process is fairly simple when performed by a concrete resurfacing specialist. First, the concrete is prepared for bonding by chasing out and widening existing cracks, and acid etching the entire surface. After the prep work is complete, a nearly bulletproof slurry overlay is applied and usually given a broom finish to protect against slipping. Lastly, the surface is sealed, keeping it safe against stains and making it easier to clean. The concrete can also be colored before being poured to complement your home’s exterior color scheme or provide a stunning contrast that your friends and family will love. Stamped overlay is also an option for homeowners who crave a bold new look. Before Replacing concrete can cost as much as three times more than concrete resurfacing and take days longer to complete. Resurfacing is truly the best value for your money. For more information on concrete resurfacing, you can contact Quality Sealants at 760-854-4608. They have over 15 years of experience in concrete resurfacing and can give you a free estimate on your driveway, patio, or pool deck. You can also visit them online at Driveway resurfaced with color www.qualitysealants.com
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ONLINE AT SANDIEGOLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
exteriorslandscaping
Professional Barbeque Cleaning Protects your Investment and Makes Food Taste Better
I
n sunny San Diego, grilling up a hearty meal on the barbeque is a beloved pastime for most homeowners. Everyone loves a good cookout, but not many enjoy cleaning the barbeque—so it is safe to say that most grills out there could use a good scrub down. Deep cleaning your barbeque will not only make it sparkle and shine, this procedure also will improve the taste of your food! This procedure removes fat, carbon deposits, and harmful carcinogens that can be transferred to your food. The deep cleaning also removes grease, which will make your outdoor cooking much safer by greatly reducing the chance of grease fires. On top of all of this, barbeque cleaning also prevent future corrosion, protecting your investment and extending the life of your grill. Now that it’s been established that cleaning your barbeque is a great idea, some homeowners might be asking, “Why not do this myself?” A thorough cleaning can be a messy job, and takes about two and a half hours to properly execute. A mobile barbeque company can bring their patented trailer to your home, and give each part of your
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barbeque a thorough yet gentle cleaning with environmentally friendly cleaning process. They will clean and degrease every part, inspect your burners, pressure regulator, igniters and tubes and even polish your barbeque when they are done. Sometimes it is just better to call in the professionals. For more information on mobile barbeque cleaning, you can contact San Diego BBQ Cleaners at (858) 605-5777. They operate under the motto “Quality Service at an Honest Price,” and their friendly and well-trained staff is there to serve you. You can see a complete list of their services and prices online at www.sdbbqcleaners.com
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exteriorslandscaping
VENEER STONES:
O
ne of the most beautiful upgrades to any home is the application of stone veneer. Whether you are building a new custom home or just remodeling, stone veneer can make a dramatic difference. The question almost all homeowners ask is: should we use real stone or manufactured (faux) stone? Here are some comparisons to help you decide. Real stone. Cut one-to-two inches thick, this is natural stone quarried from the earth. Advantages. Real stone lasts a lifetime, has low porosity, and will not fade or crack. It also maintains its color, despite exposure to sun and water. If a piece gets chipped, it will still look the same. Superior to manufactured stone, its varying color, texture, and unique shapes cannot be matched. Finally, it is installed the same way as faux stone, and for about the same cost. Disadvantages. Real stone costs more than faux stone. However, prices have shrunk in recent years. Manufactured stone. This is a concrete product poured into textured molds,
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then painted to mimic the colors of real stone. Advantages. Its cost is lower than real stone. Disadvantages. Color changes often occur from exposure to sunlight and moisture. Manufacturers offer a limited warranty that does not cover deterioration due to moisture or weather. When exposed to moisture (rain or sprinklers), lime can leach out and get deposited on the stone surface. The result is a look that is similar to a hard water stain and is difficult to remove. It also absorbs 10-times more water than most real stone. Overtime it can crumble, and this is especially true around pools. Manufactured stone can transfer moisture through a wall and cause issues similar to improperly installed stucco, including mold. For more information about stone, you can call Blue Mountain Stone Supply (Southern California’s exclusive distributor of QuarryCut Stone products) at 760-788-2677. You can also visit them online at www.bluemountainstonesupply.com.
ONLINE AT SANDIEGOLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
gogreen
Finding the Best Organic Produce Has Never Been Easier!
W
e all know what it feels like to purchase fresh organic produce at the store, only to feel overwhelmed over the next few days trying to eat all of your vegetables before they go bad. There’s nothing worse than feeling as though you wasted both good food and money, not to mention the extra time that it took to find truly organic produce. Luckily, there is a solution to this quite frustrating issue that offers a variety of incredible benefits for your family. When you have a garden full of your favorite produce right in your very own yard, not only do you gain instant access to the veggies you want when you need them, you also gain a fun and educational experience that everyone can enjoy. Living in beautiful California, our conducive climate allows you to grow just about anything you’d like—popular summer veggies include zucchini, tomatoes, green beans, peppers, and corn, while common winter harvests might consist of broccoli, cauliflower, snow peas, lettuce and spinach. Depending on your specific needs and outdoor space, professionals will work with you to establish which produce you want to grow and what size garden boxes need to be installed. Full service gardening that is tailored to your needs
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provides you with options such as drip irrigation, garden maintenance and harvesting. If you have any special requests, such as the need for animal-proof fencing, these concerns can also be addressed. Additionally, you can be as involved in your garden maintenance as you want. Tasks such as weeding, watering, fertilizing, harvesting and general care can be customized to fit your schedule and preferences. If you have children that want to learn about gardening and help plant and harvest, professionals can teach you and your family how to maintain your garden. Or, if you’d simply like to sit back and watch the professionals work their magic, that’s an option too. The choice is up to you! If you are ready to feel good about contributing to a healthy planet and a healthier you, then Teca’s Edible Gardens can help. For more information about getting started on your own organic garden, you can call them at 619-995-9005 or email tecasediblegardens@yahoo.com You can also visit them online at www.tecasediblegardens.com
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foryourinformation a
Personal Virtual Assistant That’s Always Ready to Help
hen you are a busy person, you know how hard it can be to find the time to focus on the little details in life. Aspects such as scheduling meetings, paying bills, and booking travel can quickly escape your to-do list when you are constantly worrying about much larger issues. Wouldn’t it be nice to have someone who is always available to help you at any given moment? If this sounds all too familiar, then it’s time for you to meet Iris. Iris is the secret weapon of successful people—not just in work, but in life. Part robot and part human, Iris has the personality of a human being and the brain of a high-powered robot in order to help you get things done quickly and efficiently. Plus, Iris is available 24/7 via text message or email. From social media assistance to dinner reservations, Iris is always a text message away. You delegate a task, and Iris is on it. For $35 a week, the Mogul package grants you access to unlimited task requests, 24/7 coverage,
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and one-minute response time to all communication. Some sample tasks include business oriented aspects, such as website management, event planning, legal research, financial planning, sales tracking, market watch, data-entry, meeting scheduling, creating reports and documents, staff recruiting, and more. However, Iris can also handle those personal tasks, such as diet tracking, motivational quotes, jokes, dinner reservations, online ordering, deal hunting, travel planning, and wake up calls. No task is too big or small for Iris. If you are ready to streamline your success, maximize your time, and optimize your day, then it’s time for you to hire Iris. For more information about HireIris, you can text 442-500-IRIS or visit www.HireIris.com.
ONLINE AT SANDIEGOLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
ONLINE AT SANDIEGOLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
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healthbeautyfitness
Get Rid of That Stubborn Fat Without Any Surgery ou’ve tried dieting, and you’ve tried exercising. Yet somehow, there always seems to be those stubborn areas that simply don’t respond to your hard work. No matter how healthy you may be, it’s very common for just about everyone to have unwanted bulges of fat that just don’t seem to go away. Most people think that their only option to get rid of this type of fat is through surgery, like liposuction. However, this is not the case! Using revolutionary and safe technology, professionals can actually freeze away your fat with controlled cooling techniques. Targeting and crystallizing fat cells, these cells gradually die off over time—once they are gone, they are gone for good. This FDA-cleared procedure can reduce fat on the flank (love handles), abdomen, arms, and thigh area. Unlike other methods of fat reduction, it requires no needles, surgery, or downtime—you can typically return to normal activities immediately. The
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results look natural and can be seen as early as three weeks following the treatment, with the most dramatic results appearing after one-tothree months. Dr. Nagi Ibrahim has been in practice in Southern California since 2001. Each procedure is done personally by Dr. Nagi himself so you can rest-assured that you are getting the most experienced care possible. Along with non-surgical fat-loss procedures, Dr. Nagi also specializes in collagen fillers, wrinkle reduction, and much more at very competitive prices. You can call him at 760-453-2700 or visit www.askdrnagi.com for more information.
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healthbeautyfitness
here’s a new way to treat skin that is taking Hollywood by storm, and it’s not only available to the rich and famous. You too can transform your skin with the Alisters by partaking in the perfect marriage of luxury and technology with innovative Intraceuticals professional treatments. An Intraceuticals treatment performed by a professional results in beautifully hydrated, lifted, and contoured skin with absolutely no downtime, and results that last. This unique treatment delivers moisture-binding hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and antioxidants to the skin. Using cooling and calming topical hyperbaric oxygen, the result is luminous and unparalleled hydration, and visible, age-defying results. There are four ranges of Intraceuticals treatments available: Rejuvenate, Atoxelene, Opulence, and Clarity. Rejuvenate dramatically transforms the way your skin looks and feels, offering the ultimate in hydrated and glowing skin for
any skin type. Rejuvenation offers instant visible results. Atoxelene is a targeted treatment to smooth the appearance of expression lines and wrinkles. This treatment will firm, lift, and plump the appearance of wrinkles around the forehead, eye, nasal folds, and lip areas. Opulence is ideal for uneven and dull spotty skin tones, while Clarity treatments are the ultimate weapon against problem-prone skin. In order to determine which Intraceuticals treatment is ideal for you and your skin type, the first place to start is by consulting with a local professional. Deirdre Evans Skincare can help you get your skin to the place that it wants to be. For more information about professional Intraceuticals treatments, or other services and products that Deirdre and her staff offers, you can visit www.DeirdresSkincare.net, or call 619-602-4591.
BROWS WOW that
Before
Effortless Eyebrows Help You Look and Feel Beautiful
P
erfectly sculpted permanent eyebrows can open up your face and make you look years younger! For most women, feeling beautiful is a priceless state of mind that has a huge impact on their day-to-day routines. It takes time and precision to get your eyebrows looking their best. Nothing is more frustrating than standing in front of the mirror, already minutes late, desperately trying to pencil in your eyebrows. Somewhere between the quests to look good, the search for more time, and the desire to maintain an active lifestyle, permanent makeup is here! Shelby McIntosh, an experienced artist will take your measurements and hand-draw a custom eye-
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brow pattern designed to enhance and flatter your face. Shelby uses her technique and style to resemble fine hair-like strokes that give the illusion of having natural hair eyebrows. MPi Clinic provides a threestep numbing technique to ensure a comfortable experience. Trust your face like so many have with MPi Clinic, the most trusted name in permanent makeup since 1989. For a complimentary consultation or more information about permanent cosmetics
Immediately After
Healed
offered at MPi Clinic, located 9320 Fuerte Drive #104 in La Mesa, you can call (619) 741-2908, or visit them online at www.mpiclinic.com. ONLINE AT SANDIEGOLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
healthbeautyfitness
After
Before
f you are a woman who suffers from hair loss and/or hair thinning, you are most likely quite aware of how difficult it can be to find a solution to the problem. Hair thinning and loss are terribly sensitive issues that can have negative effects on anyone’s self esteem. Some common solutions that exist on the market include unappealing remedies that use chemical adhesives, glue, and even hair trimming or shaving. However, when you are already struggling with hair loss, the last thing you want to do is cause damage to the hair that you still have. As a result, the hunt to find the perfect hair solutions can become extremely disheartening. The American Hair Loss Association recently sent an online Buyer Beware alert warning the millions of women suffering from hair loss of common misleading trends and scams. Hard, soft, and other chemical related methods are unfortunately very common in the U.S. market. The hair replacement industry in our country tends to look for such methods, which are more commercial. It’s easy to train new stylists how to implement, and it’s easy and fast to implement on all customers, unlike one tried and true method of superior hair restoration: Raz’s ITHL™ Method. If a solution sounds too good to be true, such as a miracle shampoo that will grow your hair back instantly, it probably is. The ITHL Method, or Integrated Thread Hair Lines, requires top levels of professionalism and experience. This cutting edge, technologically advanced solution is the ideal ONLINE AT SANDIEGOLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
choice for women who don’t want to wear a wig, are fed up with damaging extensions, or don’t want to resort to invasive scalp surgery or medication in order to get thicker hair. The first step to the boutique approach of Raz International is a consultation with a hair restoration professional so they can learn about you, your lifestyle, and your needs and expectations. This is both cost- and obligationfree. Next, the procedure itself takes place in a relaxing setting with the founder and creator of the ITHL method himself, Amnon Zakay, who is also a client. Here, he will expertly create bridges between your thinning hair with real, 100% human donor hair that matches yours in both density and appearance for a truly natural look. Amnon, a licensed barber in California and a master hair replacement specialist, has over 32 years of worldwide experience in the hair restoration field. Amnon has been helping women and men with hair loss for over 30 years, and is continuously updating and advancing the ITHL process in order to provide the latest beautification techniques to his clients. It requires minimal maintenance, far less than all other typical bonding methods. You can live a completely normal active life with your new hair—swim, style, shower, clean, and sleep as you always have done. For more information, you can contact Amnon Zakay at Raz Hair by calling (760) 444-0488 to schedule a free consultation. In your consultation you will watch an educational video showing the actual method and procedure so you can be fully informed before you make any decisions. You can also find more information and video testimonials on their website at www.razhair.com
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Raz’s Actual Client
Before MAY/JUNE 2015 • SAN DIEGO LIVING
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healthbeautyfitness
Reshape Your Body in 20 Minutes! By John Colman
When Diane Rand reached age 50, she got concerned that her weight was slowly creeping higher and her clothes were feeling too tight. As a practicing physician in San Diego, she knew the diagnosis. “Your muscles atrophy as you age, and this slows down the metabolism,” says Rand. “I knew it would keep getting worse if I didn’t correct it.” The antidote? Effective weight training. But, she’d never lifted weights before. Plus, her fulltime job as a physician as well as her family life left little time in her schedule for exercise. Fortunately, Diane read an article about “slow-motion” strength training, a revolutionary new exercise method promising a firmer, stronger, more shapely body from just two 20-minute training sessions per week. Even though the time efficiency and results sounded almost too good to be true, she decided to enroll with a personal trainer at The Perfect Workout, a local company with dozens of private fitness studios specializing in this unique approach. Right away she noticed immediate increases in her muscle tone and energy. After several months she’d also dropped one to two clothing sizes and was fitting into clothes which used to be too small. “My trainer pushes me in a safe way, and I walk away feeling great after each session,” says Diane. “This is the wave of the future.”
Lean Muscles—The Key To Reshaping Your Body The Perfect Workout’s trainers encourage clients to build lean muscle tissue, which increases the body’s metabolism, burning extra calories even while you’re sleeping. Many people—especially women—have a fear of “bulking up” like a
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Physician Diane Rand tones her arms as part of her 20-minute training session in San Diego.
bodybuilder if they were to start strength training. In reality, if you’re older than 25, it’s much more likely that too little muscle is the problem rather than too much muscle. In their book Biomarkers: The 10 Keys to Prolonging Vitality , William Evans, Ph.D., and Irwin Rosenberg, M.D., show the research demonstrating that adults who don’t strength train lose an average of a half pound of lean muscle tissue each year starting at age 25. As an example, a typical 55-year-old woman will have 15 pounds less lean muscle (and significantly more fat) than what she had at age 25. Muscle takes up less space than fat, so this typical
55-year-old woman has arms and thighs that are softer and less firm, wears a larger clothing size, and has a slower metabolism that burns fewer calories each day. Effective strength training changes all of this. It increases your body’s metabolism, causing you to burn more fat and calories all day long. Strength training reshapes and tones your legs and arms. And since muscle takes up 20% less space than fat, adding muscle and losing fat will make your body firmer, smaller, and more shapely. A fit 140-pound person can wear clothes several sizes smaller than an out of shape 140-pound person. ONLINE AT SANDIEGOLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
healthbeautyfitness How Can Slow-Motion Strength Training Work So Quickly? Slow-motion strength training involves brief and demanding workouts to get great results. The basic concept? Lift relatively heavy weights excruciatingly slowly (10 seconds to lift, another 10 seconds to lower) for as many repetitions as you can until you’re unable to move the weights anymore. And when you learn to challenge your muscles as deeply as a skilled trainer can teach, it’s impossible to workout much longer than 20 minutes, even if you try. Dr. Philip Alexander, physician and faculty member at Texas A&M University’s College of Medicine, explains that it’s the intensity of exercise that stimulates greatest changes. “A slower repetition loads the muscles more effectively and efficiently. It’s harder!” exclaims Alexander. “That’s why it stimulates such a great total response from the body.” Dr. Alexander has tracked hundreds of subjects using slow-motion strength training, noting significant improvements in muscular strength, HDL cholesterol profiles, bone density, and glucose tolerance. Other research adds more supporting data. Two separate studies by Wayne Westcott, Ph.D., and one study by Ellington Darden, Ph.D., demonstrate that slow-motion strength training produces 50% to 59% faster improvements than regular weight training. And because the repetitions are harder, each training session must be limited to 20 minutes—making this exercise method quite time efficient.
In 3 months Justin Brunette dropped 4 inches from his waist and lowered his body fat percentage by 6.4% with effective nutrition and weekly 20-minute training sessions at The Perfect Workout.
Joyce Reclaims Her Youthful Figure 54-year-old Joyce Magnuson had always been slim and slender when she was younger. But in her mid 40s, life’s stresses caught up with her and she began gaining weight. “During the next few years, I kept getting heavier, until I was thoroughly broken and disgusted with myself,” says Joyce. Fortunately, she happened to read an article about slow-motion strength training and how it would reshape her body with just two 20-minute training sessions per week. The effectiveness of the method made sense to Joyce, and she decided to enroll with a personal trainer at The Perfect Workout. ONLINE AT SANDIEGOLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
In 3 months Laura Retana Shelp lost 23.4 pounds and 10 inches off her waist with improved nutrition and two 20-minute training sessions a week at The Perfect Workout. After five months of combining an effective nutrition plan with two 20minute training sessions each week, not only had she gotten stronger, she’d lost 43 pounds and dropped from a size 16 to a size 10. She was also able to get completely off the blood pressure medications that she’d previously needed to take. She adds, “The perk is looking good in the current styles. Even Macy’s keeps me motivated to stay fit!”
The Perfect Workout has dozens of private studios throughout the United States that specialize in one-on-one personal training with the slow-motion strength training method, including these San Diego County locations: Carlsbad (760) 444-2195, Del Mar (858) 345-3051, La Jolla (858) 210-6200, Rancho Bernardo (858) 434-0300, and Mission Valley (619) 757-1001. www.ThePerfectWorkout.com MAY/JUNE 2015 • SAN DIEGO LIVING
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