Santa Barbara Coast, CA December 2024 by City Lifestyle

Oh, What Fun

Offered At $1,850,000

Bonnymede’s best value just got better! Nestled in the esteemed Bonnymede beachside community, this ground-floor pied-à-terre radiates timeless elegance and modern sophistication. Recently renovated, this one-bedroom, one-bath home features high-quality finishes and a seamless single-level design. Custom cabinets, countertops, and fixtures complement new appliances, creating a luxurious yet functional space. Natural wood floors and expansive windows amplify the chic aesthetic. Step out onto the southfacing patio for al fresco dining with soothing ocean breezes. Located just moments from Butterfly Beach, the Coral Casino, Rosewood Miramar, Coast Village Road, and world-class restaurants, it offers an ideal setting for luxurious beachside living. Impeccably maintained and may be available turn-key for your immediate enjoyment.

Bonnymede Elegance by the Sea

Reflections

Each December, I am always caught off guard by how fast the year has passed. 2024 has been no different. While I have plenty of warning the holidays are approaching, it seems like so much gets put off to the last minute. It can be easy to grab the phone and place a quick order for next-day delivery, but I’m simplifying and shopping with intention by holiday shopping locally.

Whether it’s the farmers market or coffee shop, I’m always impressed by the quality of the products and services I receive around town. There is an appreciation when we make the intentional effort to patronize our local small businesses. The people behind these businesses are remarkable and work diligently each day to curate an experience that is fulfilling and makes us want to come back for more.

The passion I have for this magazine is rooted in making sure that we keep as many local treasures here for as long as possible. This issue profiles some of my personal favorite places to shop for the best Santa Barbara experience. I encourage you to visit the places you haven’t been in a while or the ones that have been on your list. December can make or break our businesses and they depend on us to choose them first.

We started this magazine at the beginning of the year with a mission to tell authentic stories of the businesses, charities, and community members that make Santa Barbara magical. We’re just getting started. We invite you to join us on this journey into 2025. Please join the conversation and share your local favorites.

Cheers to a wonderful holiday season. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your loved ones!

MELISSA PEDRAZZINI,

PUBLISHER

@SANTABARBARACOASTCITYLIFESTYLE

PUBLISHER

Melissa Pedrazzini | melissa.pedrazzini@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Samantha Durbin | samantha.durbin@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Chelsey Juarez | chelsey.juarez@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Kylie White | kylie.white@citylifestyle.com

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Sara Stevens | sara.stevens@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Samantha Durbin, Ben Malkin, Tracy Marcynzsyn, Meaghan Clark Tiernan

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Josh Gruetzmacher, Emily Merrill, Tristin Tracy December 2024

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

CUSTOM FURNITURE KEEFRIDER

city scene

1: Santa Barbara Rescue Mission silent auction 2: Santa Barbara Rescue Mission Women’s Auxiliary 3: Passport to the Bayou 4: Dianne Davis, Pamela Dillman Haskell, Susan Hughes, Joan Wimberly, Terry Foil, Sydney Tredick, Alice Birch 5: Rolf Geyling SBRM President 6: Diego SBRM program graduate, Kiah Jordan SBRM Chair of the Board of Directors, Rolf Geyling SBRM president, Rob Fredericks honoree at this year’s Bayou 7: Filmmaker Andrew Tingel shows off his Award of Excellence.

DALE WEBER

HUNTER HAWS

DALE WEBER

With

Karen J. Neary, MSN, RN, Founder

8: Festival attendees ‘pucker up’ for a group photo 9: Judges, City of Goleta Councilmember Stuart Kasdin and US Congressman Salud Carbajal ‘squeeze’ in some fun at the Pie Eating Contest 10: Volunteer cashiers selling activity tickets and wristbands

GOLETA LEMON FESTIVAL

CRUISING THE DANUBE: WITH AMAWATERWAYS

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY BEN MALKIN

What better way to explore the former Austro-Hungarian Empire (I’m a history buff) than by skipping planes, trains and automobiles and letting AmaWaterways do the cruising up the Danube! Before boarding, we explored Budapest on our own. As evident in the photos, we were enchanted with magical evenings near the Danube with the river and beautiful illuminated buildings as the backdrop. When we arrived in Budapest the Obuda Secret Food Tour introduced us to the local fare, and after we had our fill of sausage, schnitzel and goulash, we dined Greek and Italian. Dionysus served up superb Greek food in a riverfront setting. As AmaWaterways schedules a day of tours to the famous landmarks of Budapest, we focused on food and fun while on our own.

FLAVORFUL FARE

Once aboard, we wined and dined like Hapsburg royalty, made new friends and enjoyed the luxurious amenities of the stateof-the-art AmaMagna. Dining on board the AmaMagna was an adventure in 5-star service and cuisine. The main dining room was quite inviting and provided the opportunity to share a table and make new friends, which was exactly what we did. The food, as it always is on AmaWaterways’ cruises, reflected the cuisine of the country and region. If after a few days you have had enough schnitzel and wild boar, then the ribeye, fish and even the cheeseburgers are outstanding. I also spent plenty of time in their gym working off great breakfasts, lunches and dinners. The walking tours helped as well.

INCREDIBLE CREW

A major shoutout to Captain Niels Springer, Cruise Manager Kriss Stallabrass (Canada/ The Netherlands), Hotel Manager Jereno Parena and Executive Chef Ferry Purnama. The AmaMagna crew was beyond wonderful! Handling weather challenges that impacted the itinerary they turned lemons into lemonade. When we could not reach Vilshofen at the end of the cruise for a special Oktoberfest

(due to rain in the Alps that caused silt problems in the Danube), the amazing crew staged our very own Oktoberfest on board—lots of oompah and raised beer steins!

HISTORIC DESTINATIONS

The cruise took us to Bratislava, Vienna, Durnstein (home of the world’s best apricot strudel—really!), Saltzburg, Linz and the Czech Republic. The land tours were led by very well-schooled guides. We saw lots of castles and plenty of outrageous Hapsburg extravagance—buildings with hundreds of bedrooms! Who slept there? Half of European royalty maybe? As my remark reveals, if I had lived then, I probably would have been a revolutionary!

For me, the highlight of our cruise was Vienna. AmaWaterways scheduled us for a chamber orchestra Mozart and Strauss recital accompanied by wonderful dancers. We also went Italian at Fabios, where we enjoyed an incredible and quite pricey dinner that was well worth it; we will always cherish the special memory.

You can find all the details about AmaWaterways’ amazing river cruises at AmaWaterways.com

As Casa del Herrero embarks on our $18 Million Capital Campaign in celebration of the estate’s 100th anniversary in 2025, we ask for your support to help us continue our mission of protecting and preserving the history and beauty of this

Best of Both Worlds

A full home remodel in the Riviera brings the outdoors in

“The views really reflect Santa Barbara,” says Sheila White of Sheila White Interiors, who helped spearhead the two-year full home remodel in the Riviera.

The Pueblo-style home built in the ‘90s has views of both the ocean and mountains, something the family of four wanted to capture in their newly remodeled kitchen. White added a commercial-grade awning window to bring the outdoors in. “They love entertaining,” she says, “so that was the focus of the kitchen.”

As a mother of two young children herself, White knew exactly how to transform this home. After working in both retail and interior design locally for 15 years, she went out on her own about three years ago, taking many of her former clients with her. Her business blossomed through word of mouth as clients gravitated toward her traditional, colorful aesthetic. “I love doing children’s rooms with lots of color, whimsy and fun,” she adds.

Having her own business has given this Los Angeles native the opportunity to pick and choose projects. Instead of managing a dozen at a time, she’ll hand select only a few—and go all in. That focus allows her to be full-on, hands-on, working on everything from consulting with architects to selecting all the finishes, stone, cabinetry, and more.

When she’s not using her contacts in LA to build custom furniture, drapes, and more for her clients, White is looking for accessories and soft goods locally. Her go-to spots include William Lamen, Botanik, Field + Fort, Porch, and Wendy Foster Upstairs.

ARTICLE BY MEAGHAN CLARK TIERNAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSH GRUETZMACHER

Holiday Maileg Mice

“They love entertaining,” she says, “so that was the focus of the kitchen.”

Danish design house Maileg has delighted generations of children with handcrafted toys since 1999. Their new Christmas collection has lots to fall in love with. Outfit your home with the gingerbread house and fill it with little advent gifts like Santa, Christmas Mouse, and Sleigh. Various prices at Macher.

Festive Garland

Cheer up any space with a pretty garland. A seasonal favorite, pick up these six-inch strands at Summerland’s beloved garden boutique botanik. You can personalize it using items found around your home, like White did, adding dried orange slices and magnolia leaves for color.

Bowl + Antique Ornaments

When little hands still grab at pine needles, a more practical approach to decorating your home with priceless ornaments is adding them to a beautiful bowl. Take this raw mango wood Be Home bowl, handcrafted in India from sustainably sourced protected groves, and fill it with those hand-me-downs your children will cherish as they age. $220, Macher

Tilden Non-Alcoholic Cocktails

The sober-curious movement has arrived here in the form of Tilden cocktails. This woman-owned business delivers a punch without the hangover with its alcohol-free cocktails featuring bold flavors like tart cherry and bitter orange. Perfect on their own or with a spike, any guest will appreciate this crafted cocktail. $35, Macher

Oh, What Fun

A girl’s dream slumber party come true

Sometimes, you have to wing it. You want to make your kids’ dreams come true and pull it off with a little help from friends (actually, a lot).

The friends who helped make an 8-year-old girl’s pajama party dreams come true were like-minded moms also with a dream: Rachael de los Cobos and Lauren Iglesias, who feel every celebration should be magical and memorable.

Rachael and Lauren launched PJs+Posies to reinvent parties inspired by the classic pajama party. They provide and set up the decorations according to theme, you stress less. The next day they collect the props so you don’t have to clean up the whole mess and have surplus party stuff. From tents to party tables, balloon garlands to shimmer walls, PJs+Posies brings it beautifully.

“Many parents love the ‘slumber under’ idea so all kids, even the younger ones, can enjoy. We don’t only do birthdays, we do summer parties, graduation parties, or just a fun night for friends,” said Lauren.

PJs+Posies also caters to adults, from spa days to bachelorette parties. Video games, movie nights, jewelry-making, slime tables, the ideas are endless. We love any reason to celebrate. And so we did, at the Canary Hotel, where Christmas came early for a group of friends.

More friends who helped make our pajama party possible: Kimpton Canary Hotel, Tristin Tracy, pajamas and alpaca stuffies from Asher Market and Beach Baby Boutique, dresses and purses from Nurture Cottage.

To reserve a party date, visit pjsandposies.com.

“

Every

celebration should be magical and memorable.

Making Spirits

JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”

As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.

Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.

One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.

Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.

These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just

about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”

We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.

To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.

The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com

SANTA BARBARA SOLD

THE EDIT Jewelry

ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA DURBIN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY MERRILL

Legacy jewels from Belrose Estate Jewelers

Designer Equestrian Horse Earrings Italian 14

Karat Gold, $1,900, and 14 Karat Gold 2-Tone

Gucci Style Horse-Bit Necklace, $7,500

There’s nothing like a sweet family story to warm us, especially around the holidays.

Belrose Estate Jewelers has been a State Street gem since 2007. The three-generation family-owned store is operated by Joe and Sarena Schweke, a father-daughter duo.

CONTINUED >

Vintage 14k & Diamond Butterfly Ring with Pin Conversion, $3,200

15 Carat Morganite & Diamond Yellow Gold Rope Necklace, $3,500

The business started on the East Coast, where Joe’s parents opened an antique jewelry shop in 1967 on the Atlantic City boardwalk. Joe grew up around all things shiny and sentimental and, while living in California, took over the family business at 19 and rooted it in Santa Barbara.

Specializing in vintage, estate, and antique jewelry, they source jewelry worldwide and buy directly from local residents. Vintage jewelry appeals to many because of its intrinsic and mysterious histories, the wonder of the piece’s journey, its previous

owner, and their story. Pre-loved pieces are also the original sustainable jewelry and arguably some of the best made, where agesold craftsman techniques articulate design.

Belrose boasts jewelry from all eras. Art Deco, Edwardian, and mid-century jewels are in high demand. They also make original pieces out of recycled metals and stones. We curated a Belrose mix modeled by local beauty and friend Gabrielle Semerjian.

The best part about these: they’re all one of a kind.

1103-A State Street, Santa Barbara, 93101 Moving to Montecito this winter to 1268 Coast Village Road

Vintage 3 Carat Green Tourmaline and Diamond 18k Gold Cocktail Engagement Ring, $3,500

GIA Certified No Heat 36 Carat Ruby and Diamond Wide Bracelet, $85,000

GOLETA | CARPINTERIA (COMING SOON)

GIFT GUIDE: NATURE ENTHUSIAST

ARTICLE BY MEAGHAN CLARK TIERNAN

GIVE A PIECE OF PARADISE

Santa Barbara’s rocky mountain ranges and eternal 70-degree days mean seeking renewal outdoors isn’t just a benefit, but a requisite. This season, gift something for the nature enthusiast in your life, from one-of-a-kind hand-collected driftwood art to a visit to the largest Himalayan salt cave in North America.

EXPLORE ESCAPE

Amboise Picnic Basket by Les Jardins de la Comtesse, Nomada Deco, $130

Living in any of the Nomada Hotel Group’s properties is a fantasy, and the next best thing is shopping from Nomada Deco. A collection of “souvenirs from the open road,” this picnic basket defines their curated lifestyle. Made in France, the wicker basket includes an insulated pouch for holding a bottle of wine, ceramic plates, a cutting board, and a bread knife, plus cutlery for two. @shopnomadadeco

Membership, Santa Barbara Botanical Garden , $75-$150

It’s easy to get lost at our botanical gardens. Not just because there are 78 acres of stunning terrain weaving throughout this special spot in Mission Canyon but because it transports you to another world. The Garden’s meadow, redwoods, and backcountry offer an experience for the young, and young at heart. Added bonus: each membership supports conservation efforts. @sbbotanicgarden

INDULGE HIBERNATE

02 03 04

Cave Session, Salt Cave Santa Barbara, $28

Therapeutic and rejuvenating, Salt has been offering guests a trip unlike anything else you’ll find on State Street since 2012. Drop-in sessions happen every hour on the hour into the cave that features floor-to-ceiling Jurassic-Age salt blocks and crystals. Each 45-minute session infuses your body with micro-salt particles; otherwise known as halotherapy, known to be an effective way to improve respiratory health. @saltcavesb

Handmade driftwood stand (with original art) at Tidepools Carp, $30-$450

It’s easy to drift toward the creamy white sand of Carpinteria. Everything downtown, from boutiques to ice cream shops, feel as if they’re pointing you to the Pacific. Capturing that feeling, Tidepools Carpinteria gives guests a taste of the salty air. The woman-owned business offers handmade products and photography, delivering the picturesque promise of a seaside escape, like their best-selling hand-collected driftwood stands built by a local artist. @tidepoolscarpinteria 01

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

DECEMBER 2024

Canary x Minted Holiday Pop Up

The Canary - Santa Barbara

Guests can visit the Canary’s holiday card photo pop-up in the lobby, featuring beautifully designed holiday vignettes that set the scene for guests to capture their holiday photos via easy-to-use kiosks. Guests will instantly receive their photos via email.

DECEMBER 5TH

Merry Miramar Event & Holiday Stroll @rosewoodmiramarbeach

Rosewood Miramar Beach | 5:00 PM

Feel the magic of the season this year at Rosewood Miramar Beach with a festive celebration from 5 – 7 pm. Bring the whole family to enjoy a holiday concert, experience a California Coastal “snow fall” and meet Santa Claus.

DECEMBER 7TH

Holiday Tree Lighting With Santa

Coast Village Road | 4:00 PM

Santa will arrive in jolly style to pick up children’s letters and then light the tree. Warm up with hot chocolate while listening to carolers and watching performances that will certainly ring in the holidays with cheer.

DECEMBER 7TH

Old Town Goleta Holiday Parade @oldtowngoleta

Hollister Avenue in Old Town Goleta | 6:00 PM

A cherished tradition that unites our community in the spirit of the holidays. With festive floats, lively musical performances, dynamic dance groups, and cheerful participants, this event promises to be a highlight of the year for both residents and visitors.

DECEMBER 7TH & 8TH`

State Street Ballet’s Rudolph @statestreetballet

The Lobero Theater | 6:30 PM

State Street Ballet Academy presents Rudolph on Saturday, December 7 at 6:30 pm and Sunday, December 8 at 2 pm. Featuring the students of State Street Ballet Academy, as well as the Cold Spring School Choir and Laudate Choir, directed by Sara DiSalvo.

DECEMBER 8TH

38th Annual Holiday Parade of Lights

Santa Barbara Harbor | 5:30 PM

Get in the holiday spirit Santa Barbara style and head to the Waterfront for an afternoon and evening of fun at the 38th Annual Parade of Lights. The parade will be capped off by a fireworks show. Best viewing locations for the boat parade and fireworks include Stearns Wharf, the breakwater, West Beach, and East Beach.

DECEMBER 14TH

Nutcracker Afternoon Tea @belmondelencanto

El Encanto | 11:00 AM

Discover the magic of the holiday season when El Encanto partners with Santa Barbara’s State Street Ballet to present a unique family experience that is sure to delight children of all ages on Saturday, December 14 & 21. Reservations recommended.