Love Local: Exploring Walnut Creek with Nathan and Caroline Pas tor
LIFE + CULTURE
ADMIRE HISTORICAL LANDMARKS IN WALNUT CREEK & LEARN ABOUT THEIR HISTORY
ENTERTAINMENT FROM BROADWAY TO THE SPOTLIGHT
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The Passion of Italy Meets the elegance of France
La Fontaine took its name from the great 17th Century French poet and fabulist, Jean de la Fontaine. Just like La Fontaine’s colorful imagery, our food is filled with colorful spices from France and Italy. This style of cuisine is called Provençale, the best of both worlds in Southern Europe.
3 Course Menu For Two. Choose two starters, two entrees, and two desserts for $125. Sunday-Thursday
We know the value of enjoying an authentic meal with family, friends, and colleagues. Let us share our love of food with you.
Love Where You Live: Celebrating Community, Connection, and Local Stories
As February arrives, it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and connect with your family, neighbors, and community.
This month, our issue is all about “Love Local.” To us, that phrase means so much more than supporting local businesses (though that’s an important part of it). It’s also about cherishing the people and places that make Walnut Creek feel like home.
In this issue, we invite you to dive into Walnut Creek’s rich history through Brad Rovanpera’s curated list of its most significant historic buildings. These landmarks are more than just bricks and mortar—they tell stories that remind us of the importance of preserving historical roots.
We also shine a light on love in action by sharing the inspiring stories of two local couples who have built thriving businesses while strengthening their relationships. These couples prove that love and collaboration can create lasting impact.
This month's feature is a story about a local couple, Nathan and Caroline Pastor, who are also on our cover. They share their love for the community, favorite spots around town, and date night ideas.
And speaking of inspiration, we’re thrilled to feature an interview with Sandra Joseph, the legendary Broadway star and keynote speaker at this year’s East Bay Women’s Conference. Sandra’s journey is a testament to the power of authenticity and creativity.
While we teeter between the coziness of winter and the promise of spring, we encourage you to embrace all things local. Treat yourself to a coffee from Rooted Coffee and settle in for a family game night. Or plan a Valentine’s date night with bubbles from Fizz and cupcakes from Cupcakin’ Bake Shop. These small moments, shared with loved ones, remind us of what truly matters.
We’re honored to share the stories of this vibrant community and the people who make it extraordinary. We hope each page inspires you to love where you live—and who you share it with—a little more than you did before.
Jennifer Starbuck | jennifer.starbuck@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Julie Brown Patton, Lindsey Hickman & Linda Ditch
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Aika Cardin
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
ANY SPACE IS AN OPPORTUNITY
Astounding Construction Inc. delivers exceptional craftsmanship, transforming spaces with premium finishes and meticulous attention to detail. Our recent projects showcase luxurious outdoor areas, featuring seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor living spaces, enhanced by highquality materials like stone-tiled floors and sleek glass doors. From the foundation to the final touches, every phase of construction is handled with precision, ensuring long-lasting, beautiful results. Whether it’s a large-scale renovation or a custom addition, Astounding Construction Inc. combines passion, expertise, and premium materials to bring your dream home to life.
Mention Walnut Creek City
AIKA CARDIN
AIKA CARDIN
Life Force Chiropractic
Find your center and unlock pathways to healing at Life Force Chiropractic's new home in Pleasant Hill. The new space, located at 200 Gregory Lane, Suite B105, is carefully designed to merge chiropractic care with meditation and mindful practices to help you heal and rejuvenate. Start your healing journey with Dr. Alandi Stec's gentle yet highly specific approach to helping individuals of all ages find relief from chronic pain, stress, anxiety, insomnia, and more.
Photo Courtesy of Dr. Alandi Stec.
new year, new her
Recognizing Resilience and Transforming Lives
ARTICLE BY WALNUT CREEK CITY LIFESTYLE EDITORIAL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Walnut Creek City Lifestyle is excited to team up with Dr. Amela Hozic at Ellevi MedSpa to bring a heartfelt initiative—a makeover contest dedicated to celebrating the strength and resilience of women in our community. Inspired by empowerment and transformation, this contest was created to uplift a woman who has faced significant challenges and could benefit from a rejuvenating Medspa experience. Dr. Amela, known for her expertise and compassionate care, understands self-care's profound impact on confidence and overall well-being.
"Everyone deserves to feel confident, especially those who have navigated life's toughest challenges with grace and determination," says Dr. Amela.
This makeover is Dr. Amela's way of giving back to the community and honoring those who inspire us with their resilience.
"It’s a chance to uplift a woman who has faced life’s storms and come out stronger, to remind her that she is seen, valued, and deserving of care and celebration," she says.
The makeover includes:
• Personalized medical aesthetics treatments, including facial, skincare, facial balancing, wrinkle relaxing treatments
• A personalized hair transformation
• Professional makeup application
• Eyebrow microblading by a celebrity artist
If you know an extraordinary woman who deserves this life-changing opportunity, nominate her today through this website: ellevibeauty.com/makeover.
Dr. Amela
SELF-PROFESSED WALNUT CREEK ‘NATIVE SON’ SHARES TOP 10 EPOCH-MAKING LIST
Admiring Local Historic Landmarks
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY BRAD ROVANPERA
Walnut Creek 1910: Printed with permission of Walnut Creek Historical Society.
Brad Rovanpera book signing "Walnut Creek: An Illustrated History" in 2009.
Today, Brad Rovanpera is still a Walnut Creek advocate.
Walnut Creek was incorporated on Oct. 21, 1914, becoming Contra Costa County's eighth city.
Originally called ‘The Corners’ before present-day Walnut Creek due to its location at the consequential intersection of Pacheco and Lafayette Roads, the city thankfully still has plenty of times gone by ‘corners’ to explore. One person in particular hopes others agree.
Walnut Creek native Brad Rovanpera was the city’s first public information officer, serving 24 years until retiring in 2009. He’s a 1976 graduate of San Francisco State University with a journalism degree, however, one of his other passions is history. In fact, he authored two books about local lore: 150 Years in Pictures: An Illustrated History of Walnut Creek, published in 1999, and Walnut Creek: An Illustrated History, published in 2009.
Although Brad and his wife, Debbie, subsequently relocated to Virginia, where he served as an associate guide at Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello from 2010-2019, he nonetheless relishes outlining the beauty of Walnut Creek’s historical buildings. Brad agreed to share with Walnut Creek City Lifestyle readers his top 10 local buildings of historic importance, as well as highlights of his research about them.
“My factors for considering which buildings to place on such a list are three-fold: historical architecture, who lived there and how it was used,” explains Brad. “Without our historic buildings, we lose that important perspective of where we once were from and how far we’ve come.”
Now back to the West Coast as a resident of Spokane, Washington, he's still encouraging everyone to keep Walnut Creek’s heritage alive by embracing the city’s past without camouflaging it.
Considering that The Corners was settled in 1849 during the Gold Rush, this feature also honors Walnut Creek’s recent 175th milestone. The city still holds the golden ticket to many people’s happiness.
1. Shadelands Ranch Museum, 2660 Ygnacio Valley Road, built in 1903, is Brad’s top pick. As a stately, Colonial-Revival style house, he says this spot has it all. It was erected by one of the town’s earliest pioneers and remains on its original site, virtually unchanged. It was the home of one of the town’s founders, Hiram Penniman, who became the area’s first real estate agent by selling land parcels to newcomers for $50 and $75 each. In 1970, the house was donated to the city and turned over to the Walnut Creek Historical Society. It was converted into a museum during 1972.
2. Sasa, 1432 N. Main St., built in 1910. Still with its original charm from being a meat market, over time, it was converted into JR Muggs and a series of cafes.
3. St. Paul’s Mission Chapel, 1924 Trinity Ave., built in 1888. Brad says it’s the only ranked landmark that maintained its original architecture and purpose. After opening for worship during 1889, it’s the last surviving 19th century church. It was relocated to its current spot during 1950.
4. Havana, 1516 Bonanza St., built in 1926. It originally served as the Central Fire Station.
5. Adib’s former Persian rug store, 1375 N. Main St., built in 1910 as a hardware store. It was the town’s first building to be supplied with electricity. It went through an architectural makeover in 1947, but is one of the few older buildings still owned by the original family’s descendants.
6. Vic Stewart’s restaurant, 850 S. Broadway, built in 1891. Served as a railroad depot until rail traffic ceased, it’s been a restaurant since.
The 110th anniversary of a bustling, upscale Walnut Creek was celebrated during 2024.
Sherburne Brothers store circa 1872.
Photo provided by Brad Rovanpera.
Penniman house circa 1903. Photo provided by Brad Rovanpera.
7. California Closets and other shops, 1376-1388 N. Main St., built in 1913. It housed the First National Bank.
8. Leech House & Medical Clinic, 1525 N. Main St., built in 1872. It was the home of the town’s second doctor, Claude Leech, and his wife, Eva, who became the municipality’s first woman elected to its city council.
9. Brad called a tie between Tellus Coffee (the former Schroder Insurance building), on 1410 N. Main St., which opened in 1928 and served as Walnut Creek’s third post office from 1928 to 1947, and the Borges Ranch House. The Borges Ranch House was established in 1901 by Portuguese rancher Francisco Borges. The Borges house on 1035 Castle Rock Road, during 1981,
became Walnut Creek’s first landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was restored by the city in 1990.
10. Model Bakery (formerly La Fogata Mexican Bar & Grill), 1315 N. Main St., built in 1862. Brad says the building is showcased in the oldest known photo taken in Walnut Creek, approximately in 1872.
Fun Modern Day Fact: Walnut Creek has an active Sister Cities International program with two sister cities: Noceto, Italy, and Siófok, Hungary. Local schools have a yearly student exchange with these cities.
WCHistory.org
Walnut
local love
Nathan and Caroline Pastor’s family roots span coasts, but their hearts are firmly planted in Walnut Creek. Nathan was born in Oakland but grew up in Walnut Creek. He attended the Las Lomas High School and graduated from UC Berkeley. He then earned a prestigious Master of Law (LLM) in Estate Planning, Trust, and Probate Law from Golden Gate University. As a certified specialist in trusts and estates, Nathan made waves in the legal world in 2019 when he won a case at the California Supreme Court. He runs his practice, Pastor Law Group, PC, in Walnut Creek.
Caroline, originally from Cleveland, Ohio, charted her own impressive path. After graduating with a BA in Biology from Kenyon College, she earned her Master of Social Work from the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. She has over a decade of experience as a clinical social worker and has an advanced certification in Hospice and Palliative Care. Before opening her private therapy practice in Walnut Creek, Caroline worked as a medical social worker in hospice and palliative care and as a director of a homeless services program.
Their paths crossed in Washington, DC, thanks to a mutual friend. Today, Nathan and Caroline call the Saranap neighborhood of Walnut Creek home, where they enjoy life with their beloved cats, Sneakers and Tiramisu.
ARTICLE BY WALNUT CREEK
CITY LIFESTYLE
EDITORIAL TEAM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY AIKA CARDIN
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT LIVING IN WALNUT CREEK AS A COUPLE?
We love the easy access to many activities like hiking trails, good restaurants, and museums in San Francisco, and just a short drive away from the beach, wine country, and the mountains.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE DATE-NIGHT SPOT IN WALNUT CREEK?
We love to go to the Cheesecake Factory and then window shop at Broadway Plaza. We love going to Li Cha Tea on Broadway Avenue. The owners are welcoming, and the tea selection and drinks are unmatched. It brightens our day when we go there.
DO YOU LOOK FORWARD TO ANY LOCAL EVENTS OR FESTIVALS EACH YEAR?
We enjoy walking around our neighborhood during the fall and winter months. Our neighbors get into the holiday spirit by
The Pastors’ Guide to Walnut Creek’s Best Spots
decorating their lawns. There is a Halloween parade and party at the end of the street. Also, Following Francis (a local non-profit) often creates a Living Nativity during the Christmas holidays that includes live animals and singing.
ARE THERE ANY CAUSES OR ORGANIZATIONS IN WALNUT CREEK THAT YOU SUPPORT?
We both volunteer for Following Francis, a local non-profit that offers inspiring field trips for children and their families from underserved neighborhoods and gives them gifts of quality clothes, shoes, groceries, books, educational toys, and needed supplies. Nathan is on their board, and we have volunteered at many of their local events.
WALNUT CREEK OFFERS MANY OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES—WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITES?
Civic Park and the Shell Ridge Open Space are our favorites.
WHAT WOULD THE PERFECT WEEKEND IN WALNUT CREEK BE?
We get coffee and tea at Rooted in downtown Walnut Creek, then head out on an early morning hike at Shell Ridge, enjoying the sunrise behind Mt. Diablo. We would have brunch at Sunrise Bistro and then knock out some shopping downtown. After enjoying the pool and sauna at Forma Fitness in the late afternoon, we would head to Thorsap Thai Kitchen or Flemmings Steakhouse for dinner, then a movie at Cinemark Century Walnut Creek 14. Top it off with ice cream at Lottie's Creamery.
From Broadway to the Spotlight
SANDRA JOSEPH SHARES HER STORY IN PERSEVERANCE AND SELF-ACCEPTANCE.
ARTICLE
BY WALNUT CREEK CITY LIFESTYLE EDITORIAL TEAM
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SANDRA JOSEPH
Sandra and Ron in The Phantom of the Opera.
Sandra Joseph is best known for her legendary performance as Christine Daaé in The Phantom of the Opera , which spanned over 1,500 performances. But after a decade, Sandra took a leap from Broadway to become a one-of-a-kind musical keynote speaker, where she shares her passion for performance and her lifelong interest in personal growth and self-actualization. Sandra is also the author of Unmasking What Matters: 10 Life Lessons from 10 Years on Broadway. She married actor Ron Bohmer, who played The Phantom. The couple now are keynote speakers.
Despite captivating audiences as Christine Daaé, Sandra had to overcome a personal struggle with her fear of being in the spotlight—a surprising challenge for someone in the limelight. As a self-described introvert, Sandra says she fell in love with the art of performance.
"I don't struggle like I used to," she says. "I still prepare, rehearse, and craft every single keynote specifically for the audiences. I don't think I've ever done quite the same thing because I want it to be specifically relevant to whatever the event is and whoever the audience is."
Sandra notes her insecurity during her younger years resonated with many. She likens her struggle to The Phantom , who feels the need to cover up part of himself and present a perfect image to the world to be loved.
"I think so many of us can relate to that."
The Broadway star acknowledges that public speaking is a huge fear for many. But over the years, Sandra has managed to overcome her insecurity, thanks to personal development, therapy, and self-reflection.
"I can't say I don't ever have moments of self-doubt, but it doesn't stay with me like it used to," she says. "I'm well past 50 now, and the beauty of getting older, I think, is you begin to just inhabit your whole self in a much more accepting way, and I no longer feel that I must be perfect."
Sandra and Ron will be the keynote speakers at the East Bay Women's Conference (EBWC) 2025 on March 4 at the Lesher Center for the Arts in downtown Walnut Creek. This marks the 20th anniversary of EBWC, which aims to inspire women from all walks of life.
Sandra shared her journey in securing her role in The Phantom, adding it was not an overnight success.
"I got in my own way and made mistakes out of nervousness, insecurity, and fear," she recalls.
Her perseverance and determination kept her going, but the biggest takeaway from that journey was learning how to "get out of" her own way. She says sometimes people get insecure when they feel like they are taking risks or vulnerable.
"That's when those old insecurity voices start whispering in our ear. That's when we tend to put the mask on. We feel we're not good enough," she says.
"It took a lot of perseverance to finally get out of my own way, and magical things can happen when you don't give up."
Sandra says overcoming the need to be perfect and allowing herself to be vulnerable opened connections.
"I want people to take the pressure off themselves and relax into being an imperfect, vulnerable, flawed human. That's what we all are."
Sandra says she and Ron have been together for almost 30 years and have worked together for a long time but always find a middle ground to make things work.
As artists, Sandra says she and Ron often have different ideas and opinions about their speaking engagements and other events, unlike in The Phantom , where they knew their roles.
"We laugh at how much conflict it evokes," says Sandra.
But Sandra admits that it's an interesting challenge, one that the couple is always working on by compromising, communicating, and listening to each other.
LEARN MORE: Sandra and Ron are among the keynote speakers at the East Bay Women's Conference 2025.
WWW.WALNUT-CREEK.COM/EBWC2025/
LOVE STORIES THAT BUILT businesses
BY LINDSEY HICKMAN
TIFFANY GAXIOLA AND ANA GONZALEZ
Ana Gonzalez and Alfonso Hermosillo of A&A Studio Staging & Design
Tiffany and Michael Gaxiola, of Little House of Kings, with their sons
When love and business blend, the results can be magical. In our community, two local couples are proving that partnership goes beyond just their home life; it extends into business as well. Tiffany and Michael Gaxiola of Little House of Kings and Ana Gonzalez and Alfonso Hermosillo of A&A Studio Staging & Design have turned their shared passions into thriving businesses, all while strengthening their relationships. For these couples, working side by side isn’t just about running a company, it’s about creating something lasting for their families and growing together. From luxury party rentals to home staging, they are building businesses that are as much about love as they are about success.
LITTLE HOUSE OF KINGS
Sixteen years ago, Tiffany and Michael's paths finally crossed through a mutual friend, despite having been part of the same church community for years. The connection was instant, and just three years later, they were married, celebrating their 13th anniversary last month. Together, they’ve built a life centered around family and faith, raising three boys—11-year-old twins Isaac and Israel, and 4-year-old Judah.
For Tiffany and Michael, the decision to start a business together was rooted in a shared desire to teach their children about entrepreneurship while building something meaningful for their family. Inspired by Tiffany’s mother, who ran a daycare for over 20 years and retired early to spend more time with family, the couple wanted to show their boys that it’s possible to create a life around passion and purpose.
After years of dreaming and planning, the Gaxiolas officially launched Little House of Kings in June 2024. Specializing in luxury, bespoke party rentals, their business focuses on modern bounce houses, custom event focal points, and organic balloon garlands. The goal? To create picture-perfect moments for families while ensuring fun and safety at every event. Tiffany’s background as a medical assistant and Michael’s experience as a field service manager have equipped them to balance the demands of running a business while juggling careers and family life.
“The best part is seeing the joy we bring to our littlest clients,” Tiffany says. Their signature bounce houses, designed with an open front to make it easier for parents to capture memories, have become a centerpiece of many family celebrations. The Gaxiolas’ sons are hands-on in the business, often joining their parents on-site to see firsthand the impact of their work.
Tiffany Gaxiol and her sons
Little House of Kings offers bespoke rental options
For Tiffany and Michael, running a business together has been a journey of growth—both personally and professionally. “Communication is key,” Michael shares. They’ve learned the importance of clear expectations, aligned schedules, and staying on the same page, whether transporting inventory or setting up an event.
As for advice for couples thinking about starting a business together? Tiffany says it’s all about communication and balance. “It’s important to maintain a clear boundary between business and personal life so you don’t lose sight of why you’re doing this in the first place.”
With Little House of Kings continuing to grow, Tiffany and Michael’s dream is just getting started, and they are excited to create even more unforgettable memories for families in Walnut Creek and beyond.
For more information, visit Instagram @littlehouseofkings or email bookings@ littlehouseofkings.com.
A&A STUDIO STAGING & DESIGN
The story of Ana and Alfonso is one of fate, persistence, and partnership. In 1999 they were neighbors, living just doors apart. Alfonso, drawn to Ana’s warmth and spirit, asked her out several times, but Ana politely turned him down, yet there was something about him that she couldn’t ignore. Ana finally agreed to a date, and from that moment, their love story unfolded in ways neither could have imagined.
As the years passed, their bond grew stronger. They married in 2000, beginning a life together rooted in respect, collaboration, and a shared vision for the future—one that would eventually lead them to a new chapter in their lives: running a business together.
Ana Gonzalez and Alfonso Hermosillo of A&A Studio Staging & Design
Tiffany and Michael Gaxiola, of Little House of Kings, with their sons
A&A Studio Staging & Design
For these couples, working side by side isn’t just about running a company, it’s about creating something lasting for their families and growing together.
In the early 2000s, Ana worked as a personal assistant, refining her organizational and creative skills, while Alfonso worked in management at Diablo Country Club, where he developed his leadership abilities. But it wasn’t until Ana decided to turn her passion for design into a business that their professional lives took a new direction.
A&A Studio Staging & Design was born from Ana’s love for transforming spaces. Initially, she started staging homes for friends and family, and soon, it became clear that this passion could be turned into a professional endeavor. With Alfonso’s unwavering support, they launched their business, combining Ana’s eye for detail with Alfonso’s strategic thinking.
The early days were challenging, often spending long nights building furniture together. “We didn’t have a lot, but we were determined to make it work,” Alfonso says. “Those late nights became the foundation of what we have today.” Their perseverance and teamwork paid off as the business grew steadily over the years.
Ana believes one key to their success is their ability to communicate openly and honestly. “We don’t always see eye to eye, but that’s what makes us stronger,” she says with a smile. “Healthy discussions about what’s best for the business are essential, and we’ve learned to listen to each other, both in business and in love.”
Today, Ana and Alfonso’s love story has not only flourished in their marriage but also in their shared business. For more information on A&A Studio Staging & Design, visit aandastaging.com.
Ana Gonzalez and Alfonso Hermosillo of A&A Studio Staging & Design
An Iconic Luxury SUV Goes Electric
ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CADILLAC
Cadillac has combined luxury, power, and space in an all-electric SUV with the launch of the 2025 Escalade IQ. This full-sized vehicle seats seven people in the plush comfort and design customary in this iconic brand while providing the most up-to-date technology in an EV.
"Honestly, the first time I saw it, I was pretty speechless," says Walnut Creek Cadillac general manager Melissa Abril. "Cadillac built this vehicle from the ground up as an EV. Seeing this vehicle come together the way it does and the technology in the vehicle is mind-blowing. And then, when you get inside of it, you sit in the seats and look up at this huge sunroof. This car is an experience."
The Escalade IQ has an electronic range of 460 miles and can charge up to 100 miles in 10 minutes. In Velocity Max mode, it can go from 0 to 60 mph in less than 5 seconds with up to 750 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque. The SUV also has a towing capability of 8,000 pounds.
Cadillac designed this vehicle for maneuverability and drivability. Its Four-Wheel Steer reduces the turning diameter by more than 6.5 feet, allowing for easier parking and getting through tight spaces. It also reduces the turning diameter to just 39.4 feet at low speeds.
Product specialist Jonathon Gutierrez explains, "It makes for a sharper turn. I've been on two or three test drives, and a turn that's difficult for a regular Escalade is easier with this one.
"This new Escalade also has a camera when you activate the turn signal. I think it's beneficial since it's such a massive vehicle. It does have a big mirror and blind spot alert, but that camera helps it out even more. It enhances visibility."
The Escalade IQ also has Super Cruise, a hands-free advanced driver assistance system. Made primarily for freeway and highway driving, it enables drivers to travel hands-free on more than 400,000 miles of compatible roads in the U.S. and Canada. The driver sets the speed and the forward collision alert, a gap adjustment of one to three car lengths between the Escalade and the car in front. The system also monitors the driver's head position and eyes in relation to the road to ensure driver attention.
Jonathon says the Super Cruise icon will pop up on the screen once it's set.
“Once you turn it on and the icon goes from blue to green, you know the vehicle will drive for you, keep you in your lane, and change lanes for you," he says.
The interior of the Escalade IQ is pure luxury. One of the most eye-catching components is the 55-inch pillar-to-pillar total diagonal display screen that spans the front-row dashboard. It brings information to the driver and allows the front-seat passenger to enjoy entertainment on their screen.
An Executive Second-Row Seating package includes tray tables, personal screens, a rear command center, wireless phone charging pads, charging ports, massaging seats, and headrest speakers. The power-folding third row can be easily stowed to create more room for suitcases, shopping bags, etc. There is also a front trunk (made possible because of the missing combustible engine) that can accommodate two golf bags.
Pricing for the Escalade IQ begins at $130,000.
Picture by Aika Cardin
Debunking Myths On Hair Extensions
ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE PETERS
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF STEPHANIE PETERS AND STANI PHOTOGRAPHY
Meet Stephanie Peters, a color and hair extension specialist at Salon Hanover in Walnut Creek. Stephanie has over 20 years of experience, including 15 years specializing in hair extensions. She has also spent the past decade educating others and is proud to be a master educator for a global extension brand. In this issue, Stephanie helps debunk the myths about hair extensions.
MYTH 1. HAIR EXTENSIONS ARE DAMAGING OR WILL CAUSE HAIR LOSS.
FACT: Hair extensions are not damaging. It is essential to seek out a stylist who is well-versed and educated in this craft, as there are many methods and offerings. I take great pride in customizing and curating a perfect look for each client, as this is not a one-size-fits-all service. It is also important to follow the at-home care guide to ensure the integrity of your natural hair and the longevity of the extensions.
Photo by Stani Photography
STEPHANIE HAS OVER 20
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, INCLUDING 15 YEARS
SPECIALIZING IN HAIR EXTENSIONS.
MYTH 2. HAIR EXTENSIONS ARE JUST FOR LENGTH.
FACT: Hair extensions are not just for length; add color or correct a haircut (think about a self-trimmed bang that didn't go your way). You can add extensions to increase volume and length you can’t achieve on your own. Ask me or your stylist about V Light hair extensions! This latest technology is a coverage solution-based service where you add single strands of hair on the top crown of your head or hairline where you can't place normally traditional hair extensions.
MYTH 3. HAIR EXTENSIONS LOOK FAKE AND UNNATURAL.
FACT: When done right, hair extensions should blend seamlessly and be completely invisible to the eye! Always ensure you get hair extensions from a service provider offering top-quality hair. I highly discourage clients from bringing hair that they've bought online. Those typically don't have a guarantee. Also, don't be afraid to cut. Let your stylist layer and blend your hair extensions so they flow with your natural hair!
MYTH 4. EXTENSIONS ARE HIGH MAINTENANCE.
FACT: Hair extensions require maintenance like any other high-end beauty service. Have a thorough consultation with your stylist to discuss what maintenance is required at home. There may be additional steps regarding what products you can or can't use. My tip is to never go to bed with wet hair! Aside from that, hair extensions are an added enhancement (and the) extra care is worth it.
MYTH 5. HAIR EXTENSIONS ARE UNCOMFORTABLE OR HEAVY.
FACT: When properly applied, hair extensions should be comfortable. The latest technologies have made hair extensions paper-thin, lightweight, and seamless on the scalp. Hair extensions have been around since the time of Cleopatra; they have evolved and will continue to go a long way! Stephanie offers complimentary consultations and is happy to answer additional questions about hair extensions. Visit her Instagram page @stephanie_peters or drop by Salon Hanover.
FEBRUARY 14TH
Raise Your Glass (Pink Tribute)
Retro Junkie, 2112 N. Main St. Walnut Creek | 6:00 PM
Raise your glass and enjoy a tribute to Pink as well as rock covers of modern pop hits at Retro Junkie this Valentine's Day!
FEBRUARY 21ST
College Notes A Cappella
Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive Walnut Creek | 7:30 PM
Be mesmerized by bright minds and voices at the annual College Notes event, which features a cappella groups from top universities from across the country!
FEBRUARY 28TH
Young @ Art! Student Show: Innovate to Elevate Art Gallery at the Village Theatre, 233 Front Street Danville | 3:45 PM
You can tour the current student art show in the gallery and create unique and expressive art projects of your own!