DEBBIE FOGEL AND JESSICA FOGEL
SCOTT OF FOGEL INTERIORS WITH LINDA FERRARI OF EQUITY UNION LUXURY PROPERTIES
Giving Thanks
November is always a special time of year, as we start to slow down, gather with family and friends and kick off the holiday season. Here in Brentwood, we have so much to be thankful for, and I feel so grateful to live in a community where people truly understand this and feel a deep desire and obligation to give back.
Throughout this issue, you will see many examples of Brentwood’s philanthropic spirit. Take This is About Humanity, an organization that addresses family separation in border cities, which just celebrated its 6th anniversary with an elegant evening soirée. Or Baby2Baby, the groundbreaking children’s charity that is hosting its annual star-studded gala this month. And I am personally honored to serve on the committee for the 4th Annual FACT Pickleball Social benefiting Phase One Foundation, a non-profit devoted to cancer research started by my dear friends and Brentwood residents, Alberto and Stacy Valner.
After all, there is no reason why you can’t have fun while doing good. Just ask Trish Healy, the founder of WonderTent Parties. A portion of all proceeds from her gorgeous events are proudly donated to Kidsave, a charity that connects older foster youth with prospective parents. It is through Kidsave that Trish met and adopted her own daughter, Celia—and it was through Celia that Trish was inspired to start her own company. Please be sure to check out our story on WonderTent Parties’ beautiful holiday gatherings.
On the subject of gatherings, I absolutely love Josephine Atluri’s tips for cultivating gratitude this Thanksgiving. Josephine is an incredible health, wellness and meditation coach, as well as a mother of seven! If she is capable of finding peace and serenity at the Thanksgiving table, I think we all probably can.
Lastly, do not miss our cover story on Jessica Fogel Scott of Fogel Interiors, who worked with her mom as well as real estate agent Linda Ferrari to create the home of her dreams, or our feature on Muse Santa Monica, a gem of a French restaurant in Rustic Canyon. I lived in the canyon with my husband when we were starting our family, and it feels like a full circle moment to feature this new spot in the pages of our magazine.
Wishing you all a wonderful Thanksgiving. Enjoy the issue!
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Amanda Eberstein
amanda.eberstein@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Laura SanchezQuan
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Josephine Atluri, Laura SanchezQuan, Angela Broockerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Belva Barringer, Michael Clifford, Pablo Enriquez, Spencer Heaphy, France & Jesse Rambis, Randy Shropshire/Getty Images, Stefanie Keenan/ Getty Images, Janie Jones, Molly Marler, Jess Koehler
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
AMANDA EBERSTEIN, PUBLISHER @BRENTWOODCITYLIFESTYLE
Saturday, November 16th
About PHASE ONE
PHASE ONE is a Los Angeles-based nonprofit dedicated to advancing Phase I + II clinical trials for all types of cancer. Since 1999, we’ve funded over 50 grants, helping bring 5 life-saving drugs to market and many more treatments on the horizon.
The FACT Event
1 PM, NOV. 16TH @ MULHOLLAND TENNIS CLUB
Featuring burgers from Heavy Handed, drinks, swag bags, and MORE! The proceeds will help PHASE ONE find and fund more life-saving clinical trials–bringing hope to cancer patients everywhere!
FREEMAN ACES CANCER TOURNAMENT
city scene
1: Eva Longoria and This is About Humanity’s co-founder Elsa Marie Collins at the organization’s 6th Anniversary Soirée. 2: TIAH co-founder Zoe Winkler Reinis with parents Henry and Stacey Winkler, who hosted the event at their Brentwood home. 3: Last year’s honoree Lauren Sánchez. 4: Some of LA’s top chefs gathered in support of the cause. 5: Scooter Braun. 6: Emily Current, Julianne Hough, Stephanie Levinson and Meritt Elliott. 7: Roda Ahmed.
Photography by Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for This is About Humanity
1:
and
Shelton Wilder of Christie’s International Real Estate hosted her inaugural Wilder Women, a monthly event devoted to bringing together female entrepreneurs. 2: Some of the powerhouse women in attendance. 3: Jillian Kogan Dunn and Lisa Ebersole at Lunetta All Day in Santa Monica. 4: Amanda Mantville of Armadillo rugs. 5: Television and film director Sonia Bhalla. 6: Wilder takes a selfie with Lisa Spittler-Odenweller of Kroma Wellness and TV personality
style expert Roxy Earle. 7: Dia Parsons of Alegria Collaborative.
Photography by Molly Marler
1: Kilte founder Hannah Hale Redfern (second from left) hosted a fall fashion fête at her home, with guests that included Lindsey Davidson Paley, Mallory Goldman and Millie Kahane. 2: The intimate dinner celebrated the launch of Kilte’s new collection. 3: Simone Morris, Rocky Barnes and Rainey Lancaster. 4: Jen Kay and Sam Hirschmann Boskey. 5: Georgia Tapert Howe. 6: Kilte knitwear on display. 7: Elsa Dahan.
Photography by Belva Barringer
1: Prominent members of the entertainment industry came together for an event at the Nova Exhibition in Culver City, organized by I Believe Israeli Women, a joint initiative of Seed the Dream Foundation and Jewish Women International. 2: A view of the exhibition. 3: A moving panel discussion moderated by Tablet Magazine’s Alana Newhouse with Nova Music Festival survivor Tali Biner and activists Lani Anpo and Elica Le Bon. 4: Actress Octavia Spencer. 5: Co-host Sherry Lansing and Lynn Harris. 6: Sharon Osbourne. 7: Shanni Suissa, co-host Dr. Marcy Gringlas and Becca Stern Wenger.
Photography by Randy Shropshire/Getty Images
business monthly
Chanel Holiday Makeup Collection
Chanel has created a stunning new makeup collection just in time for the holidays. With hues inspired by the celestial wintry colors of moonlit icicles and the northern lights, each limited-edition creation reflects the magic of the season. Standout items include the Diamond Dust oversized illuminating powder—a gorgeous compact embossed with a Chanel snowflake—and the Enchanted Night eyeshadow and blush palette. Available at the Chanel Fragrance and Beauty Boutique in Palisades Village or at chanel.com.
Ezequiel Farca’s New Book
Seeking design inspiration? Look no further than Ezequiel Farca: Studio, the new Rizzoli book dedicated to the groundbreaking Mexican architect, who has called Los Angeles home for nearly 15 years. The lavish tome features sixteen recently built private residences throughout Mexico and California, including Farca’s own striking Spanish-style home in Santa Monica, noted for its dramatic black exterior. ezequielfarca.com
Introducing Costa Covo Osteria at the L’Ermitage Beverly Hills
The L’Ermitage Beverly Hills has long remained one of the city’s best kept secrets—an understated residential-style hotel catering to a discreetly in-theknow clientele. Now, the property is unveiling the first phase of a large-scale renovation with the debut of its glamorous new coastal Italian restaurant, Costa Covo Osteria, and cocktail bar, Alcova. Dishes include market-fresh crudo, simple handmade pasta and vibrant seasonal vegetables. Next up, a reimagined lobby and rooftop eatery with breathtaking views. lermitagebeverlyhills.com
Want to be featured?
Sunday Brunch at Baltaire
Baltaire—everyone’s favorite neighborhood steakhouse—has just launched a new Sunday brunch. The DJ’ed prix fixe experience includes everything from prime filet benedict to carne asada chilaquiles to a Maine lobster omelet, with add-ons such as a pick-your-own seafood plateau or Baltaire’s private label caviar. And for those who want to make their brunch boozy, don’t miss the paloma slushies, champagne mimosas or tableside Bloody Mary cart. baltaire.com
Holiday Cooking from Chef Danielle Christy
Local chef and certified health coach Danielle Christy can help you create the perfect Thanksgiving feast—or any meal for the holidays. Christy works with clients to create fully customized festive spreads, scouring the farmers markets for the freshest ingredients and catering to dietary requirements. She can cook onsite or schedule delivery—with entrées such as turkey, beef tenderloin or pork roast, as well as classic sides and an array of veggies, salads, desserts and more. chefdaniellechristy.com
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Lash Lifting at the Brow Fixx
In addition to a plethora of eyebrow services ranging from standard waxing to lamination to tinting, the Brow Fixx in Brentwood Village also offers a keratin lash lift. Often referred to as an eyelash perm, this treatment blends keratin, silk peptides and botanicals for a procedure that curls the lashes and stimulates growth for a natural, fortified and revitalized effect. thebrowfixx.com
French Connection
MUSE SANTA MONICA FUSES IMPECCABLE CUISINE WITH ARTFUL IMAGINATION
ARTICLE BY AMANDA EBERSTEIN
Situated in a tiny jewel-box space in Rustic Canyon, steps away from Giorgio Baldi and hidden behind a discreet rose-colored door, sits Muse Santa Monica, one of the westside’s buzziest new culinary destinations. The brainchild of 24-year-old chef-owner Fardad Khayami—a recent graduate of the University of Southern California who grew up between London and the South of France—the ambitious restaurant marries contemporary French cuisine with richly fabricated interiors filled with a revolving display of world-class art. The debut exhibition highlights none other than renowned Catalan-Spanish painter Joan Miró, whose original works hang over plush banquets throughout the intimate 35-seat room. “It’s a space where we showcase the things that we love,” Khayami says. “Where people can connect, and most importantly where guests can have fun.”
The idea behind Muse began in 2022, when Khayami and a group of fellow students launched a pop-up at USC called Museum, which similarly featured rotating cuisines and museum-quality gallery installations. The underground dining experience became a runaway sensation, serving nearly 3,000 students and reportedly developing a 6,000-person waitlist along the way. Upon graduation, Khayami knew that he wanted to create a permanent spot devoted to this concept, and when he found an available location on West Channel Road, he jumped at the chance. Although most recently Mason steakhouse, locals may remember the address as the longtime home of Sam’s by the Beach, a cozy traditional French eatery filled with character and charm. It feels right to have a French restaurant back in the space.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PABLO ENRIQUEZ AND SPENCER HEAPHY
Muse's chef-owner Fardad Khayami (right) with designer Marc Ange
For the interiors, Khayami tapped designer Marc Ange, whose eponymous studio is based between Los Angeles and Paris (he is also currently working on the upcoming Café Boulud at the Mandarin Oriental Residences in Beverly Hills). “My inspirations come primarily from the elegance of Italian and French traditions,” says Ange of the glamourous jewel-toned décor, which features opulent textural details and unique sculptural lighting, millwork, furniture and accessories that were almost exclusively custom-made. “I’ve drawn from certain elements of the sexy Italian chic of the ’70s, blending it with a timeless and almost classic Parisian refinement.” Ange’s low-slung Fantino dining chairs and curved glass chandeliers add a touch of the fantastical to the more polished main area, while a 12-seat private dining room features a more whimsical, dreamlike scheme. A striking Art Decostyle cocktail bar in the front of the restaurant is the perfect place for a pre- or post- dinner drink.
All of this serves as flawless accoutrement for the cuisine, which has been carefully crafted by Khayami—who is entirely self-taught—in collaboration with executive chef Jason Gonzales, formerly of Juliet in Culver City. The refined à la carte four-course menu showcases an innovative approach to traditional French dining, beginning with delicate canapés and salads, before progressing to pastas and risotto and culminating with exquisite entrées. “I was inspired by the multicourse dinners my grandparents would host,” Khayami says. “Each dish reflects those cherished childhood memories, blending tradition with modern techniques to craft an experience that feels both nostalgic and new.”
Meals begin with pastries prepared by executive pastry chef Nikdad Khayami— who happens to be Khayami’s younger brother—such as brioche feuilletée with softened Bordier butter that literally melts in your mouth. From there, appetizers include small bites like tuna tartlets with red pepper gelée and delicate veal
“It’s a space where we showcase the things that we love,” Khayami says.
“Where people can connect, and most importantly where guests can have fun.”
Original works by Joan Miró hang over the banquettes
“I was inspired by the multi-course dinners my grandparents would host,” Khayami says. “Each dish reflects those cherished childhood memories, blending tradition with modern techniques to craft an experience that feels both nostalgic and new.”
bonbons accompanied by a vibrant sauce verte, as well simple salads of market lettuce and herbs or heirloom tomatoes with sungold vinaigrette and Comté fondue. Pasta highlights range from eggplant cappelletti inspired by Khayami’s mother to a beautiful lobster saffron risotto that is a tribute to Tetou, the iconic Cannes seafood spot that closed a few years ago. Main dishes include rack of lamb encrusted with Provençal herbs and a wild catch of the day with tarragon pistou and beurre blanc. The wine and cocktail program is equally inspired, overseen by general manager and wine director Matthew Rogel, formerly of Felix Trattoria, and bar director David Gelland. And be sure to leave room for dessert, which includes everything from traditional tiramisu and vanilla Saint-Honoré to housemade rosewater ice cream and mango and passionfruit sorbet.
The end result is a one-of-a-kind experience unlike anything found in LA. “Crafting every detail—from the food to the atmosphere—has been an incredibly surreal experience,” Khayami says.
Muse Santa Monica is open for dinner Wednesdays through Sundays from 5 to 10 PM. 108 W. Channel Road, Santa Monica; 424238-5107; musesantamonica.com
Eggplant cappalletti with gruyère and Madeira caramel
Vanilla Saint-Honoré paired with a dessert wine
Stay Hydrated, Sleep and get some sunshine
Don’t skip meals - This will lead to over eating/cravings as well as digestion discomfort
Going to a party or event? Have a small meal or protein and fiber snack before leaving so you don’t show up starving and eat less mindfully
Start the day with protein/fiber and my favorite is having leftovers from dinner the night before and making a scramble for on top so easy and delicious
Reminder holiday season is about building and creating memories. Don’t beat yourself up over a food you ate, try to enjoy it and the people around you. Life is way to short to not be kind to ourselves
Photo Credit: Jess Koehler Photo
Gather ROUND
TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING WITH WONDERTENT PARTIES’ PITCH-PERFECT SOIRÉES
ARTICLE BY LAURA SANCHEZQUAN
IIf you have been on social media at all the last few years, you have likely seen the work of WonderTent Parties. The company—founded in 2017 by LA resident Trish Healy—is known for creating Instagram-friendly private soirées that began with adorable children’s slumber parties (inspired by Healy’s own daughter) and has expanded into offerings that include elaborate dining experiences, gorgeous glamping campouts, outdoor movie nights and beachside picnics. Recently, Healy launched WonderEvents, a full-scale event design service that plans everything from birthday parties to weddings to galas.
WonderTent Parties can also put a California twist on the holiday season, creating a beautiful festive dinner party or
event. “We want you to enjoy being present with your guests,” Healy says. “We’ll transform your dining room or backyard into a space that elevates the occasion into a shared experience.”
As Healy points out, there is nothing like hosting during the holidays, but there is also nothing like that special kind of stress that goes along with it. “Hosting comes with its own set of pressures,” she says. “You can find yourself spending more time prepping, arranging tables and cooking than sharing the moment with your family and friends.”
And although many of her clients have the space to entertain, they often do not have everything they need. “We use our elegant farmhouse tables and chairs to enhance their setting, allowing them to invite everyone near and dear to share the
moment,” Healy explains. “Or our gorgeous boho-inspired dining offers another way to bring large groups together for an unforgettable meal in your backyard.”
WonderTent Parties will deliver, set up and style an event, and then collect everything the next day. “Whether we’re bringing in seasonal touches like gourds and mini pumpkins or pines and fir, or pairing arrangements with florals and mood-setting textures and tones, the focus is on creating more than just a backdrop for the meal,” Healy says. “We’re creating a story, a space for long-lasting memories to be made.”
A portion of all WonderTent proceeds is donated to Kidsave, a local organization that connects older foster youth with prospective parents. It was through Kidsave that the Healys met and adopted their own daughter, Celia. wondertentparties.com
Jessica Fogel Scott of Fogel Interiors creates the home of her dreams—with the help of some family and friends
Collected Vision
ARTICLE BY AMANDA EBERSTEIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL CLIFFORD AND FRANCE & JESSE RAMBIS
The great room features a custom sectional upholstered in Romo fabric
As one half of the mother-daughter design duo Fogel Interiors, Jessica Fogel Scott is used to taking clients’ visions and turning them into reality. “My mom and I are always collaborating and bouncing design concepts off of each other,” explains Scott, who in 2007 joined the eponymous firm that her mother, Debbie Fogel, founded more than 35 years ago. “Design for us is about spaces that make sense, curating pieces that enhance the home and honoring the needs of each family we work with.”
However, when it came time to create a new home for her own growing family, Scott realized that she could use a little help. “I was pregnant with my second son, and my husband and I knew we needed more space,” says Scott of their former Santa Monica bungalow. “However, it was very hard to find something within our budget that had everything we were looking for. There was nothing on the market that fit what we wanted.”
The Scotts enlisted the aid of Linda Ferrari, a local real estate agent with Equity Union Luxury Properties, who they had met earlier at an open house. “I had already done some previews with them and knew what they were looking for,” says Ferrari, who worked as an executive at 20th Century Fox before transitioning into real estate, and is known for her exceptional relationships and exquisite taste. “I literally was calling everybody and driving down the streets with my team.”
Although the Scotts were initially interested in Santa Monica, Ferrari felt that Brentwood could be a better fit. When she came across an empty lot that was being developed by a builder on a quiet residential street, she realized that this could be the perfect spot. “It was literally a dirt lot with a porta potty,” says Scott of the compact 6,500-square-foot property. “But it
Mother-daughter interior design duo
Debbie Fogel and Jessica Fogel Scott of Fogel Interiors (left) with Linda Ferrari of Equity Union Luxury Properties
The formal living room has a custom curved sofa, vintage Milo Baughman lounge chairs and a coffee table by Luca Nichetto for De La Espada
An Apparatus Cloud chandelier hangs
“Design for us is about spaces that make sense, curating pieces that enhance the home and tell a story and honoring the needs of each family we work with,” says Scott.
was exactly the sort of street that we wanted to be on. I think we went under contract the very next day.”
Because they purchased the home so early in the process, Scott was able to be involved in the design every step of the way. “I told them that they would have to wait at least a year for the home to be complete, but that it would be worth it,” Ferrari explains. “And I knew that Jessica would be able to transform what was meant to be a basic spec home into something beautiful and make it her own.”
Although she kept the footprint the five-bedroom, 3,900-square-foot residence the same, Scott changed nearly every other element of the design. “We strived to create a space that felt a bit dressier than what we walked into when we bought it,” Scott says. “My husband and I both tend to gravitate towards darker materials and surfaces, but we wanted to
do it in a way that felt elegant and also kept the natural light in the room. So you have taupes in one room, creams in the other, plaster in another. It’s varying levels of neutrality, all telling a story, rooted in some darkness.”
The kitchen was the most dramatic transformation, and serves as the heart of the home. Scott tossed out the original plans and installed rich walnut cabinetry, plaster walls and a counter and backsplash made of bold Calacatta Paonazzo marble. “Investing in a quality slab is the number one change you can make that will really make a difference,” Scott says. “And I love that this will get patinaed and show wear.” She completed the space with hefty brass Waterworks hardware, counter stools by Lawson Fenning, Allied Maker bronze pendants and a custom sixteen-seat breakfast nook. The adjacent great room features an impressive custom sectional
“You have taupes in one room, creams in another, plaster in another,” says Scott.
“It’s varying levels of neutrality, all telling a story, rooted in some darkness.”
cabinet by Vittorio & Plinio Dassi underneath a 1950s brass mirror and unique Neptune Glassworks sconces from Una Malan. A Damien Hirst artwork hangs over the dining room table, while a powder room features a work by Ed Ruscha. The playroom and children’s bedrooms offer rare pops of color with wallpaper by Kelly Wearstler and Caitlin McGauley. The primary bedroom is once again a study in neutrals, with minimalistic custom furnishings and a 1940s Danish antique sofa upholstered in Pierre Frey bouclé.
covered in velvet Romo fabric and a Danish sheepskin chair from 1st Dibs.
This careful combination of modern and vintage aesthetics can be found throughout the home. In the living room, original swivel lounge chairs by Milo Baughman sit beside a custom curved sofa and contemporary Luca Nichetto for De La Espada coffee table. Antique onyx pedestals and a family heirloom grand piano anchor the space, with plants from Inner Gardens. The foyer features a striking 1960s antique
Outside, Scott painted the exterior dark gray and added antique brick. She also rearranged the backyard to have a smaller pool than originally intended, so that there would be plenty of room for a barbecue area and for the children to play.
At the end of the day, after all, this is a family home. “The first week after we moved in, my husband and I were eating dinner in the kitchen, and the kids were running around with their trucks and the TV was going and it was perfect,” Scott recalls. “This house is exactly everything we ever wanted.”
Rich walnut cabinetry and marble in the kitchen
An antique cabinet by Vittorio & Plinio Dassi in the foyer
Custom furnishings in the primary bedroom
Scott updated the exterior with dark gray paint and antique brick
dip -giving
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
garlic herb feta dip
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
fig & honey brie
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
directions:
Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
creamy pumpkin cheesecake dip
ingredients:
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 can pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
directions:
Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, and soften for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in pumpkin and blend until combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream and mix on high for 2 minutes. Next, stir in pumpkin pie spice. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
NOVEMBER 2ND
Chad Lawson Piano Performance
The BroadStage, 1310 11th St., Santa Monica | 7:30 PM
World-renowned pianist Chad Lawson makes his BroadStage debut with a uniquely meditative classical music experience. The evening begins with a serene breathwork session, guiding audience-members into a state of mindfulness for the rest of the captivating show. broadstage.org
NOVEMBER 3RD
Launch
Event for
On Being Jewish Now, with Zibby Owens and Contributors
Zibby’s Bookshop, 1113 Montana Ave., Santa Monica | 4:30 PM
Celebrate the release of author and podcaster Zibby Owens’ new book, On Being Jewish Now, an intimate collection of essays from some of today’s top writers and advocates about the modern Jewish experience. The impressive group of contributors who will be on-hand include Jenny Mollen, Steve Leder, Amy Ephron and many more. zibbymedia.com
NOVEMBER 5TH
Candlelight Concerts by Fever
Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd. | 6:30 PM and 9:00 PM
Candlelight Concerts—an organization that brings the magic of live, multi-sensory musical experiences to awe-inspiring locations throughout the world—is coming to the Skirball. The first performance of the evening features a tribute to iconic Mexican singer Luis Miguel, while the second honors rock legends Queen—both performed by acclaimed LA-based string players Orchid Quartet. candlelightexperience.com
NOVEMBER 9TH
Baby2Baby Gala
Location and time to be determined
Baby2Baby’s annual gala has become one of the buzziest events of the philanthropic season, and with good reason. The star-studded evening raises millions of dollars to support Baby2Baby’s tireless work for children living in poverty, while also hosting top chefs, an action-packed auction and world-class speakers. This year, actress Charlize Theron will be honored with the prestigious Giving Tree Award. baby2baby.org
NOVEMBER 10TH
Art, Science and Wonder in the Medieval World
The Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Dr. | 11:00 AM - 3:30 PM
To complement the new Getty Center exhibition Lumen: The Art and Science of Light, curators and scholars will present two panel discussions on the intersections of art and science in the medieval world. The first conversation will explore topics such as astronomy and optics, while the second invites scholars of neuroscience, philosophy and art to consider the effects of light on the brain. getty.edu
NOVEMBER 10TH
SoCal Moms Fall Family Wellness Day
Annenberg Community Beach House, 415 Pacific Coast Hwy, Santa Monica | 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Enjoy the ultimate beach day with SoCal Moms at this special event filled with family-friendly experiences, unique activations, musical performances, gifting, expert speakers and more. Early birds can start the morning with a beach walk at 9 AM, and there is also a performance by the BeatBuds. socalmoms.com
Want to be featured?
NOVEMBER 16TH In Goop Health
Milk Studios, 855 N. Cahuenga Blvd., Los Angeles | 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Gwyneth Paltrow’s ambitious wellness summit is returning to LA. The transformative day-long event features a carefully curated group of thought-leaders in conversations on physical, mental and emotional well being. In addition to the Goop founder herself, speakers include professor and New York Times bestselling author Kate Bowler and sex therapist Vanessa Marin. goop.com
NOVEMBER 16TH
4th Annual FACT for Phase One Pickleball Social
Mulholland Tennis Club, 2555 Crest View Drive, Los Angeles | 1:00 PM
Join Phase One Foundation—a local non-profit supporting ground-breaking Phase 1 and Phase II clinical cancer research—at its annual Friedman Aces Cancer Tournament. The family event invites pickleball enthusiasts of all ages and levels for an afternoon of dinks, drinks, delights and fun! All for a most deserving cause. phaseonefoundation.org
NOVEMBER 28TH
10th Annual Pacific Palisades Turkey Trot
Palisades Charter High School, 15777 Bowdoin St., Pacific Palisades | 8:00 AM
One of the Westside’s most cherished family traditions returns to the Palisades on Thanksgiving morning. Join more than 2,000 participants—and another 2,500 spectators—for these spirited 5K and 10K races, which begin at Palisades Charter High School and travel throughout town in this fun community event. paliturkeytrot.com
CULTIVATING GRATITUDE
ARTICLE BY JOSEPHINE ATLURI PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
JESS KOEHLER
Looking to go beyond the usual Thanksgiving tradition of sharing gratitude outloud? Try these unique and lasting ways to express thankfulness while deepening connections with loved ones.
1. Gratitude Tree
Set up a Gratitude Tree, where guests can write what they’re thankful for on paper leaves and share them during dinner. These trees are available on Amazon or Etsy, and make an easy yet meaningful centerpiece.
2. Gratitude Jar
Place a jar on the table for guests to write down moments they’re thankful for over the past year. After dinner, take turns reading them aloud, sparking conversations about the year’s blessings.
3. Gratitude Stones
Decorate your Thanksgiving table with smooth stones placed on top of each place setting. Guests can reflect on something meaningful, write their gratitude on the stone and take it home as a keepsake.
4. Pass the Gratitude Game
Create a bowl of gratitude-themed conversation starters (e.g., “Who helped you most this year?” or “What was your favorite moment of the year?”). Pass it around the table, with each guest sharing their thoughts as they go.
5. Shared Gratitude Playlist
Ask each guest to contribute a song that represents a moment of joy or gratitude from the past year. Compile the songs into a playlist to stream during the celebration that you can then share with everyone.
6. Gratitude Collage
Invite guests to send a digital photo of a moment that brought them gratitude this past year. Create a collage, either by printing the images for a physical display or turning them into a digital collage via a service like Shutterfly. It’s a great conversation starter and a visual tribute to the year.
7. Gratitude Time Capsule
Ask guests to bring a photo or small token representing their gratitude for the year. Pass a time capsule around for everyone to contribute their item or write down their thankfulness. Set a date to open it next Thanksgiving or in a few years, making this a cherished tradition.
Josephine Atluri is an author, certified health, wellness and meditation coach and the founder of Mindful Wellbeing Pathways, a company dedicated to supporting and empowering people on their bioindividual wellness journeys. jatluri.com
Josephine Atluri
